Grounding Clamp Adjustable Contact Pressure
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing strapping clamps for lightning protection equipotential bonding rely solely on tensioning strap force for contact pressure, which is inconsistent and dependent on proper tensioning, lacking independent adjustment of contact pressure.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating an adjustable clamping bracket between the resilient pretensioning means and the contact body, allowing independent adjustment of contact pressure through adjusting means that increase tensioning force away from the contact body, decoupling it from the clamping strap's force.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If contact pressure is achieved solely through tensioning the tensioning strap, then the structure remains simple, but the contact pressure cannot be adjusted independently and is inconsistent
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into separate functional modules: the tensioning strap system for clamping force and the independent adjusting means (threaded rod with nut) for contact pressure control. This segmentation allows each module to perform its specific function optimally without interfering with the other, enabling independent adjustment of contact pressure while maintaining structural simplicity through modular design.
Solution Approach 2:
The contact body serves as an intermediary element between the tensioning strap and the conductive part. It translates the clamping force from the tensioning strap into controlled contact pressure on the conductive part, while the adjusting means modifies this transmission. This intermediary mechanism enables precise control of contact pressure independent of the overall clamping force.
2Reliability
If spring-loaded elements are provided between contact body and housing, then some contact pressure is generated, but it remains dependent on tensioning strap tensioning
Solution Approach 1:
The adjusting means incorporates a threaded rod with nut mechanism that allows dynamic adjustment of the contact body's position relative to the housing. This dynamic adjustment capability enables the contact pressure to be modified independently after assembly, providing adaptability without compromising the reliability provided by the spring-loaded elements that maintain constant contact force.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows independent change of the contact pressure parameter through the adjusting means. By rotating the threaded rod, the nut moves along the thread, changing the position of the contact body and thus the contact pressure on the conductive part. This parameter change is independent of the tensioning strap's clamping force, enabling versatile adjustment while maintaining reliable contact through the spring elements.
3Manufacturing precision
If clamping bracket is made adjustable with adjusting means, then contact pressure can be improved independently, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The adjusting means (threaded rod with nut) serves multiple functions: it adjusts the contact pressure, positions the contact body, and maintains the spring-loaded elements in proper engagement. The contact body itself serves as both the structural element connecting to the tensioning strap and the pressure-application element. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional separate components, limiting the increase in device complexity while achieving precise contact pressure control.
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 precise and adjustable contact pressure between the contact body and conductive parts, enhancing electrical integrity and preventing spark discharges in explosive environments, such as during lightning events.
Implementation Method 1
resilient pretensioning means being arranged between the contact body and the housing covering it
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
Figure 4~5
AI summary
The invention relates to a grounding clamp for lightning protection equipotential bonding for use in potentially explosive atmospheres, comprising a tension band (7) that can be placed around a section of an electrically conductive part to be contacted, a contact body (1) that is connected to the electrically conductive part and has a connection area (1a) for an electrical conductor, and an insulating part, wherein the contact body (1) is covered by a housing (2) as an insulating part, which leaves the part of the contact body (1) that is connected to the conductive part and at least the connection area (1a) for the conductor free, wherein resilient pretensioning means (6) are arranged between the contact body (1) and the housing (2) covering it, wherein the tension band (7) is guided by a clamping head (3) whose underside is in a mechanical press connection with a top side of the housing (2).wherein a tensioning bracket (4) is arranged between the pretensioning means (6) and the contact body (1), which, when the tensioning band (7) is tensioned, can be adjusted away from the contact body (1) against the pretensioning force of the pretensioning means (6) by means of adjusting means (5) extending through the housing (2) to increase the tensioning force of the tensioning band (7).