Insulating Pole Setting Device for Electrical Isolation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for a device and method that maintains physical and electrical isolation between a ground worker and a potentially conductive utility pole during installation near energized high-voltage transmission lines, as existing solutions do not adequately protect workers from electrical hazards, particularly at transmission-class voltages.
Innovation Solution
A pole setting device comprising a non-electrically conductive elongate member with a handle end and a bracket that securely attaches to the pole, allowing workers to control the pole from a safe distance while preventing electrical contact, using materials like fiberglass and adjustable configurations to ensure effective isolation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If workers directly handle the pole during setting, then ease of operation is improved, but electrical safety deteriorates due to risk of contact with energized lines
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an insulating device as an intermediary between the worker and the pole. This device includes an insulating member that electrically isolates the worker from the conductive pole, allowing the worker to manipulate the pole safely without direct contact. The insulating device acts as a mediator that transfers mechanical force while blocking electrical current, thus resolving the contradiction between ease of operation and electrical safety.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If insulated rubber gloves are used to protect workers, then electrical protection is improved, but protection against transmission-class voltages deteriorates due to insufficient insulation capability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the insulation parameter from typical rubber glove thickness to a much thicker insulating member specifically designed for transmission-class voltages. The insulating device includes an insulating member with sufficient thickness and material properties to withstand high voltage electric fields, transforming the insulation capability from distribution-class to transmission-class protection levels.
3Ease of operation
If the tether is attached close to the pole's center of gravity, then ease of lifting is improved, but stability deteriorates causing the pole to teeter and risk contact with power lines
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates visual feedback mechanisms such as alignment marks or indicators on the pole that show workers the correct attachment position for the tether. This feedback system allows workers to easily identify the optimal attachment point that balances lifting ease with stability, eliminating the need to choose between the two conflicting requirements.
4Ease of operation
If workers stand close to the pole for manipulation, then ease of operation is improved, but safety deteriorates due to reduced working distance from energized lines
Solution Approach 1:
The insulating device serves as a mechanical intermediary that extends the worker's control capability over the pole while maintaining physical distance. The device includes a handle or control mechanism that allows the worker to manipulate the pole from a safer distance, reducing exposure to electric fields while maintaining operational effectiveness through the insulating connection.
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 device ensures the safety of ground workers by maintaining a physical working distance and electrical isolation from the pole, preventing electrical shock in case of accidental contact with energized lines, even at transmission-class voltages.
Implementation Method 1
a non-electrically conductive elongate member having a handle end and an opposite pole end
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure relates to a pole setting device to assist in setting a utility pole in a base while maintaining electrical isolation between the utility pole and a worker, the device having: a non-electrically conductive elongate member having a handle end and an opposite pole end, and having a length between the handle end and the opposite pole end; a bracket adapted to contact to an exterior surface of the pole and to the pole end of the non-electrically conductive elongate member.