Transmission Line Clamp Structure for Thermal Compression Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrical transmission line repair devices fail to maintain effective compression on conductors due to thermodynamic expansion and contraction, and are cumbersome for installation on high-voltage, energized lines suspended at great heights.
Innovation Solution
The electrical transmission line repair device features a C-channel frame with elastic deformation capabilities, threaded fasteners, and a central linking assembly, allowing for secure clamping and tension adjustment while minimizing weight and structure for easier handling and installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If traditional rigid repair devices are used to maintain compression on conductors, then structural strength is improved, but the ability to accommodate thermal expansion and contraction is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The repair device incorporates a dynamic frame structure that can elastically deform to accommodate thermal expansion and contraction of the conductor. The frame includes flexible sections or joints that allow movement while maintaining compression force, enabling the device to adapt to temperature-induced dimensional changes without losing structural integrity
Solution Approach 2:
The device utilizes materials or structural elements with varying stiffness characteristics that allow the frame to flex within specific parameter ranges. The compression force is maintained within an optimal range despite changes in conductor dimensions due to temperature, achieving both strength and thermal adaptability
2Reliability
If repair devices are designed with robust structure and components, then reliability is improved, but weight and installation difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The repair device is divided into modular segments or components that can be assembled and installed in sections. This segmentation reduces the weight and complexity of individual components while maintaining overall structural reliability through proper connection design, making the device easier to handle and install at height
Solution Approach 2:
Critical assembly steps or pre-adjustment mechanisms are incorporated into the device design, allowing portions of the assembly to be pre-configured before installation. This reduces the complexity of on-site assembly operations and minimizes the need for complex tools or procedures during installation
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 maintains compression and electrical integrity across varying temperatures and tensions, ensuring reliable operation from -40°C to 390°C, and reduces weight and installation complexity, enabling efficient repair of high-voltage transmission lines.
Implementation Method 1
The fasteners are structurally configured to sandwich the electrically conductive cable against the lower jaw, while allowing for elastic deformation of the frame about the clamp side
Data Source
AI summary
A repair device for an electrical transmission line, including first and second end sections. The end sections have an elongated and electrically conductive frame with a clamp side and an entry side opposite the clamp side. The frame forms a C-channel including an upper and lower jaw which are spaced apart from each other to define a throat cavity, with an entrance slot defined on the entry side of the frame. The throat cavity is configured to receive an electrically conductive cable. The lower jaw includes a plurality of threaded openings extending therethrough and in communication with the throat cavity. Fasteners are threadedly engaged with the threaded openings to sandwich the electrically conductive cable against the lower jaw. An electrically conductive link member attaches the first and second end sections in a spaced apart orientation.