Ground Connector Segmented Design for Raised Floor Pedestal

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing raised floor systems require cumbersome and costly methods to connect ground conductors to pedestals, necessitating a faster and less expensive solution for effective grounding.

Innovation Solution

A ground connector comprising a first section with a threaded post, a pivotably connected second member, and a worm drive, along with a second section that can be moved on the threaded post to directly clamp a conductor to the pedestal, providing efficient electrical and mechanical connection.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If traditional grounding connection methods are used, then grounding reliability is achieved, but installation time and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvegrounding reliabilityVSAvoidinstallation time
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The connector is divided into two separate sections: a first section that connects to the pedestal and a second section that connects to the conductor. This segmentation allows each section to be independently installed and adjusted, reducing overall installation time while maintaining reliable electrical connection through the threaded post interface between sections.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The second section is made movable on the threaded post, allowing it to be positioned and adjusted to different heights. This dynamic capability enables flexible adaptation to various conductor positions and facilitates quicker installation by eliminating the need for precise pre-positioning, thereby reducing installation time without compromising grounding reliability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Reliability

If traditional grounding connection methods are used, then grounding reliability is achieved, but installation cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvegrounding reliabilityVSAvoidinstallation cost
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

By segmenting the connector into two sections, each with specialized functions (pedestal connection and conductor clamping), the design simplifies manufacturing processes for each component. This reduces production complexity and cost, while the threaded post interface ensures reliable electrical connection, maintaining grounding reliability without increasing installation cost.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The threaded post serves multiple functions: it provides mechanical support for the second section, enables electrical conduction between sections, and allows for adjustable positioning. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional components, lowering manufacturing and installation costs while ensuring reliable grounding connection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

3Ease of operation

If adjustable connector design is used, then ease of installation is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of installationVSAvoidconnector complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The connector is segmented into two sections connected by a threaded post, where the first section attaches to the pedestal and the second section clamps the conductor. This segmentation provides adjustability through the movable second section, easing installation by allowing flexible positioning. The complexity is managed by keeping each section structurally simple with clear, standardized connection interfaces.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The second section is designed to be movable on the threaded post, providing dynamic adjustability for ease of installation. This movement capability allows the connector to adapt to various installation scenarios without requiring complex adjustment mechanisms. The simplicity of the movable design maintains ease of operation while avoiding excessive device complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

Enables quick, cost-effective, and secure grounding by allowing easy adjustment and clamping of conductors to pedestals, enhancing the efficiency of the grounding network in raised floor systems.

Implementation Method 1

a worm drive on the first member. The second member comprises teeth configured to be engaged by the worm drive to clamp a pedestal directly between the first and second members

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectWorm drive: Worm Drive

Implementation Method 2

a first member with a threaded post... a second section movably located on the threaded post and configured to directly contact and clamp a conductor towards the pedestal

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectThreaded mechanism: Screw

Data Source

PatentUS8038453B2Ground connector
Publication Date: 2011.10.18 HUBBELL INC
  • US8038453B2 patent drawing
  • US8038453B2 patent drawing
  • US8038453B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A ground connector including a first section and a second section. The first section includes a first member with a threaded post, and a system including a screw configured to clamp the first section against opposite sides of a support. The second section is movably located on the threaded post and configured to directly contact and clamp a conductor towards the support.