Intersystem Grounding Bridge with Segmented Terminals
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Solution Overview
Problem
Commercially available intersystem grounding devices are expensive and difficult to install, failing to meet the requirements of the National Electrical Code (NEC) Section 250.94 for effective bonding and termination of communication equipment, particularly in reducing electrical potential differences during events like lightning strikes.
Innovation Solution
A cylindrically shaped intersystem grounding bridge system with a conductive housing featuring channels for grounding wires and rods, threaded apertures for secure attachment, and a sliding cover for environmental protection and easy installation, facilitating visual inspection and compliance with NEC standards.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If commercially available intersystem grounding devices are used, then grounding and bonding termination is achieved, but the devices are expensive and difficult to install
Solution Approach 1:
The grounding device is divided into separate functional components: a grounding electrode conductor connection terminal, communication equipment grounding conductor connection terminals, and a bonding jumper. This segmentation allows each component to be independently installed and connected, simplifying the overall installation process while maintaining reliable grounding and bonding termination.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a bonding jumper as an intermediary element that connects the grounding electrode conductor connection terminal to the communication equipment grounding conductor connection terminals. This intermediary component facilitates the bonding connection in a standardized and simplified manner, making the installation process easier while ensuring code compliance.
2Reliability
If commercially available intersystem grounding devices are used, then grounding and bonding termination is achieved, but the devices are expensive
Solution Approach 1:
By segmenting the grounding device into separate terminals and a bonding jumper, the patent enables standardized manufacturing of individual components using common fabrication processes. This segmentation allows for economies of scale and reduced manufacturing complexity compared to integrated commercial devices, thereby reducing cost while maintaining reliable grounding and bonding termination.
Solution Approach 2:
The grounding device is designed with universal applicability to various communication equipment and grounding scenarios. The standardized terminals and bonding jumper configuration can be used across different installations and equipment types, reducing the need for multiple specialized components and lowering overall manufacturing and installation costs while ensuring reliable grounding and bonding termination.
3Reliability
If grounding conductors are securely mounted to housing, then proper grounding is achieved, but installation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The grounding system is segmented into distinct connection points and conductors that can be independently mounted and connected. This segmentation allows installers to work with smaller, more manageable components rather than attempting to secure entire grounding systems at once, reducing installation complexity while ensuring proper grounding through each segmented connection.
Data Source
AI summary
An intersystem grounding bridge and associated intersystem grounding bridge system includes a cylindrical housing formed from an electrically conductive material, the housing having a plurality of channels in a first face of the housing for receiving and holding grounding conductor wires of associated communication components, a plurality of threaded apertures in the cylindrical surface of the housing for receipt of set screws so as to secure grounding wires inserted within these first channels, and a second channel formed in a second face of the cylindrical housing for receiving a grounding and an associated grounding conductor wire. A second threaded aperture in the cylindrical housing in cooperates with the second channel to secure a grounding rod and, if present, the associated grounding conductor wire. The grounding bridge may include a cover to form an intersystem grounding bridge system.