Line Restraint Clamp Structure for Safe Transmission Line Replacement
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Solution Overview
Problem
The replacement of transmission lines is a laborious and dangerous process, particularly when overhead lines need to be replaced, as there is a risk of equipment failure causing damage to infrastructure and posing a risk to safety.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus for attaching restraining means to a line, comprising two or more members that can pivot between open and closed positions to engage and secure a line, with locking mechanisms and attachment means for securing restraints like safety nets.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional line replacement methods are used, then the process can be completed with simple equipment, but the risk of equipment failure and injury increases
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus is divided into multiple independent members (first member, second member, third member) that can be assembled together to form a complete restraining structure. Each member can function independently or in combination with others, allowing the system to provide enhanced safety through modular components rather than a single complex device.
Solution Approach 2:
The members are designed to nest within or alongside each other when in the open position, with engagement formations that allow one member to fit into or alongside another. This nesting capability reduces storage space requirements and simplifies transport while maintaining the complexity needed for safe operation during actual use.
2Reliability
If members are made movable between open and closed positions, then the apparatus can engage lines more effectively, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The members are designed to be movable relative to each other between open and closed positions through pivoting motion about hinge axes. This dynamic capability allows the apparatus to adapt to different line configurations and engagement requirements, improving reliability without requiring complex actuation mechanisms - the movement is achieved through simple hinge joints that allow natural pivoting.
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge mechanism combines multiple functions: it serves as both the pivot point for member movement and the axis about which locking formations engage. By merging the hinge function with the locking function, the design achieves effective line engagement through a relatively simple mechanical structure rather than separate complex systems for movement and locking.
3Reliability
If locking means are added to secure members in closed position, then the restraining capability improves, but the ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The locking formations are designed to automatically engage with each other when the members are brought into the closed position. The self-complementary nature of the locking formations means that proper alignment and engagement occur through the natural movement of the members themselves, without requiring separate locking actions or complex control mechanisms. The system locks itself through its own operational movement.
4Ease of manufacture
If identical members are used, then manufacturing cost decreases, but the adaptability to different line configurations may be limited
Solution Approach 1:
The identical members are designed with multiple engagement formations and self-complementary locking features that allow them to function in various configurations. Each member can engage with any other member of the same type, and the system can be assembled in different arrangements (such as triangular configurations with three members) to adapt to different line sizes, shapes, and installation requirements. The universal design of the members allows a single component type to serve multiple functional roles.
Data Source
AI summary
This invention relates to an apparatus (1) for attaching restraining means (10, 11) to a line (3) and more specifically, but not exclusively, to an apparatus (1) for attaching a safety net to a powerline. Replacement of transmission lines (3) is a laborious process and can be very dangerous, especially when overhead lines (3), or earth wires located above live lines (3), must be replaced. There is a real risk that if the overhead line (3) fails it may fall onto the live lines (3) below and cause damage to expensive infrastructure and injury or death. The invention provides an apparatus (1) for attaching restraining means (10, 11) to a line (3) comprising two or more members movable relative to each other between an open position wherein a line (3) is engageable by the apparatus (1) and a closed position wherein a line (3) is engaged by the members. At least one of the members including restraint attachment means for attaching a restraint (10, 11) to the apparatus (1).