Modular Grounding Device with Cable Tracks for High-Voltage Safety
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for grounding electrical equipment, particularly in high-voltage systems, are cumbersome and difficult to install safely due to the need for cumbersome personal protective equipment and limited maneuverability of telescoping hot sticks, posing safety hazards when trying to ground the low side of transformers connected to renewable energy sources.
Innovation Solution
A grounding device and system that includes a main body with passageways and tracks for easy installation and maneuverability, allowing for safe grounding without clamps, using a grounding cable that can be advanced through slots and tracks for secure attachment to electrical equipment, facilitating safer work environments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional clamps and telescoping hot sticks are used for grounding, then grounding can be achieved, but the installation process becomes cumbersome and difficult to maneuver
Solution Approach 1:
The grounding device is divided into separate modular components: a clamp assembly with jaw members, a body portion with passageways, and a cable assembly. This segmentation allows each component to be independently manufactured, assembled, and manipulated, making the overall device easier to install and maneuver while maintaining functional integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The grounding device incorporates movable jaw members that can open and close to grip the conductor, and a cable assembly that can be threaded through passageways and positioned flexibly. This dynamic design replaces rigid, difficult-to-manage traditional clamps with adaptable components that respond to installation conditions.
2Ease of operation
If traditional grounding clamps are used, then grounding function is provided, but maneuverability and control are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The body portion acts as an intermediary component that houses passageways for guiding the cable assembly and provides a structured interface between the clamp and the grounding cable. This intermediary structure ensures proper cable routing and secure connection while maintaining ease of manipulation during installation.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If arc-flash rated personal protective equipment is worn, then safety is improved, but the installation process becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The grounding device is designed to be self-contained with integrated components (clamp, body, cable assembly) that work together as a unified system. This self-service design reduces the need for complex external tools and procedures, making installation more straightforward even when operators are wearing protective equipment.
Data Source
AI summary
Grounding devices, systems, and associated methods and kits for grounding electrical equipment are described herein. An example embodiment of a grounding device includes a main body that has a main body first end, a main body second end, a main body top, a main body bottom, a main body first surface, a main body second surface, and defines a first passageway, a slot, and a track. The slot extends into the main body from the main body second end toward the main body first end to the track. The track has a track first end, a track second end, a track first portion, and a track second portion. The track first portion extends from the slot and away from the main body top. The track second portion extends from the track first portion, away from the main body first end and the main body top, to the track second end.