High Voltage Line Spacer With Spring-Lock Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
The installation of spacers and spacer dampers for medium or high voltage transmission lines is complicated and cumbersome, particularly due to the need for bolted connections and manual operation in high-altitude environments.
Innovation Solution
A spacer design featuring spring-locked receiving sections that automatically lock into place upon closure, facilitated by a pivot mechanism and spring-biased latch member, along with a mounting tool that reduces operator effort through a coupling section and lever mechanism, allowing for easy transition from installation to operation position.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If bolted connections are used to connect receiving sections, then the connection strength is improved, but the installation complexity and time consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The receiving sections are designed with a pivot connection that allows dynamic movement from an open installation position to a closed operation position. This dynamic mechanism replaces static bolted connections, enabling quick installation without time-consuming fastening operations while maintaining secure connection through the pivot's mechanical interlocking in the closed position
Solution Approach 2:
The spring-biased latch member automatically engages with the locking section when the receiving sections are closed, creating a self-locking mechanism. This self-service feature eliminates the need for manual bolting or additional fastening operations, reducing installation time while ensuring secure connection through automatic engagement
2Reliability
If manual bolting operations are required, then the connection reliability is improved, but the ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The spring-biased latch member automatically engages with the locking section when the receiving sections are closed, creating a self-locking mechanism. This self-service feature eliminates the need for manual bolting or additional fastening operations, reducing installation time while ensuring secure connection through automatic engagement
Solution Approach 2:
The manual bolting operation is replaced by a spring-biased mechanical latch system. The spring force automatically drives the latch member into engagement with the locking section, substituting complex manual fastening procedures with a simple spring-driven mechanical engagement that is both reliable and easy to operate
3Ease of operation
If receiving sections are locked automatically with spring lock, then the ease of operation is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking function is segmented into distinct components: a spring-biased latch member on one receiving section and a locking section on the other. This segmentation allows the complex locking function to be divided into simple, modular elements that are easy to manufacture, assemble, and maintain, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining ease of operation
Solution Approach 2:
The spring acts as an intermediary element that mediates between the closing motion of the receiving sections and the engagement of the latch member with the locking section. This simple spring intermediary translates the closing force into automatic latch engagement, achieving complex automatic locking through a simple mediating component
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
The solution simplifies the installation process by enabling automatic locking of receiving sections, reducing the forces required for clamping lines and enhancing operator convenience, thus streamlining the installation of spacers and spacer dampers.
Implementation Method 1
the spring lock comprises a spring-biased latch member on one of the receiving sections, the latch member in the operation position being engaged behind a locking section of the other receiving section under effect of spring action
Implementation Method 2
the second receiving section is articulated by a pivot, the pivot allowing for moving the receiving sections relative to each other from an installation position into an operating position
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a spacer (1) for at least two overhead medium or high voltage lines (2) comprising a central section (3), at least two line receptacles (4) which are arranged on opposite sides of the central section (3) and comprise each at least two receiving sections (6,7), the receiving sections (6,7) being adapted to be moved relative to each other from an installation position, in which the receptacle (4) provides an insertion opening (4a) for inserting at least one line (2) into the receptacle (4), into an operation position, in which the insertion opening (4a) is closed and the receiving sections (6,7) are locked. Further, the invention relates to a spacer mounting tool (21) and a method for installing a spacer (1). To facilitate installation of the spacer (1), the receptacle (4) is provided with a spring-lock (41) which in the operation position self-actingly locks the receiving sections (6,7).