Frangible Base Cable Securing Adapter for Utility Pole Theft Prevention

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Solution Overview

Problem

Theft of copper wiring from street and traffic light poles with frangible bases is a significant issue, as existing security measures, such as locking the hand-hole cover, are inadequate, allowing thieves to access wiring through the frangible base access opening.

Innovation Solution

An apparatus comprising a bell-shaped hollow body with a central passage for securing electrical power supply cables within the frangible base, which includes a wire clamping element to prevent access to the cables through the access opening, ensuring the cables are gripped securely and can only be removed by removing the entire pole.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Object-affected harmful factors

If the hand-hole cover is locked to prevent wiring access, then wiring security is improved, but maintenance accessibility worsens

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvewiring theft preventionVSAvoidmaintenance accessibility

Core Design Contradiction:

Object-affected harmful factorsVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The cable securing mechanism uses a dynamic locking system that can be engaged during installation and disengaged during maintenance. The mechanism transitions between locked and unlocked states based on operational needs, providing both security and accessibility.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The cable securing mechanism is designed to be self-securing through features like cable friction grips and snap-fit connections that automatically engage when cables are installed, eliminating the need for separate locking operations while maintaining security.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

2Ease of manufacture

If cables are left accessible through the access opening for easy connection, then installation ease is improved, but theft vulnerability increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveinstallation easeVSAvoidtheft vulnerability

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of manufactureVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The cable securing mechanism is pre-installed and positioned within the frangible base before final cable connection. This preliminary action ensures that cables will be automatically secured upon installation, preventing future theft while maintaining installation simplicity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The cable securing mechanism uses simple, inexpensive components such as friction grips and snap-fit elements that provide effective theft prevention without requiring complex or expensive materials. The mechanism is designed for straightforward installation and replacement if needed.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

Data Source

PatentUS9343887B2Method and apparatus for reducing wire theft from street light and utility poles having frangible bases

Publication Date: 2016.05.17 BUTLER TIMOTHY EARNEST

AI summary

An apparatus and method is provided for inhibiting theft of electrical wiring through the access opening of the frangible base of a highway utility pole, such as a light pole. Prior to securing the pole to the frangible base, a hollow body having an upper flange is inserted into the base so the flange is positioned on the upper surface of the frangible base. The electrical power supply cable is run up through the center of the hollow body and clamped to the hollow body and/or to a theft protection device used for a utility pole with a standard base. The electrical connection cable from the pole's electrical fixture is then attached to the power supply cable, and the pole and the hollow body are secured to the base by fastening means.