Liner Retention System for Aerial Utility Platforms

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Solution Overview

Problem

Utility platforms face challenges in securely retaining insulative liners due to damage from harsh working conditions and stress on non-conductive bolts, which lack strength and durability.

Innovation Solution

A liner retention system comprising retaining bars with fastener receptors and fasteners that compress the insulative liner edges, protecting the liner and bolts, and allowing for easy replacement of components.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If non-conductive bolts are used to secure the insulative liner, then the insulative properties are maintained, but the bolts are prone to failure due to stress and lack strength

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveinsulative propertiesVSAvoidbolt strength

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The fastening system is divided into separate functional components: a retaining bar that provides mechanical strength and compression, and separate non-conductive fasteners that provide insulative properties. This segmentation allows each component to specialize in its primary function without compromise.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The retaining bar acts as an intermediary structural element between the utility platform and the insulative liner. It transfers and distributes mechanical loads away from the non-conductive fasteners, protecting them from stress while maintaining the insulative barrier.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Device complexity

If the insulative liner is secured directly without protection, then the retention system is simple, but the liner edges are prone to damage from harsh working conditions

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveretention system complexityVSAvoidliner edge damage

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The retaining bar provides localized protection specifically at the edges of the insulative liner where damage is most likely to occur. This targeted approach protects vulnerable areas without requiring comprehensive reinforcement of the entire liner structure.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The retaining bar is installed beforehand to create a protective barrier between the insulative liner edges and harsh working conditions. It prevents direct contact between the liner and potential damage sources such as tools, equipment, and environmental factors.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #11Beforehand cushioning (Prior cushioning)

Data Source

PatentUS9851048B2Liner retention system for an aerial device

Publication Date: 2017.12.26 ALTEC INDS

AI summary

Embodiments of the invention are directed to a utility platform assembly a having a utility platform, an insulative liner, and a liner retention system. The insulative liner presents a complementary shape to, and is disposed in, the utility platform. The insulative liner is secured in place and protected from damage by the liner retention system. The liner retention system is disposed atop and through the liner near the top edge or edges of the insulative liner. The edge or edges of the insulative liner are therefore disposed between the liner retention system and the lip of the sidewall of the utility platform. The liner retention system generally comprises at least one retaining bar with an associated plurality of fastener receptors and fasteners.