Modular Cable Splice Assembly for Adaptable Power Distribution

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Solution Overview

Problem

In electrical grids, connecting low voltage conductors between high-to-low voltage transformers and power distribution modules is challenging due to the need for longer, heavier conductors, which are difficult to install and lack adaptability for changing installation needs.

Innovation Solution

The use of splice assemblies with enclosures, splice plates, and clamps to securely connect oblong conductors in various configurations, allowing for the use of shorter, more manageable conductor lengths and enabling adaptable expansion of conductor systems.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If longer conductors are used to connect transformers and power distribution modules, then the electrical connection is achieved, but the installation difficulty increases and adaptability decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveelectrical connectionVSAvoidinstallation difficulty
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the conductor connection system into modular segments using splice assemblies. Instead of using single long conductors, the system uses multiple shorter conductor sections connected through splice assemblies containing splice plates and clamps. This segmentation makes installation easier while maintaining electrical connectivity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The splice assembly acts as an intermediary device between conductor sections. The enclosure and splice plate provide a intermediate connection point that facilitates joining conductors without requiring direct end-to-end connections, thereby simplifying installation and improving adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Power

If longer conductors are used to span between modules, then power transmission is enabled, but the conductor weight and manageability worsen

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower transmissionVSAvoidconductor weight
Core Design Contradiction:
PowerVSWeight of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments the power transmission path into multiple shorter conductor sections joined by splice assemblies. This reduces the weight of individual conductor pieces that need to be handled during installation while maintaining the overall power transmission capability across the entire system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Ease of manufacture

If fixed conductor lengths are used, then installation is simplified, but adaptability to changing installation needs is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinstallation simplicityVSAvoidadaptability to changing needs
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The splice assembly design enables dynamic reconfiguration of conductor systems. The modular enclosure and clamp system allows conductors to be easily added, removed, or repositioned, providing adaptability to changing installation requirements while maintaining simple connection procedures through standardized interfaces.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The splice assembly serves multiple functions: it connects conductors electrically, provides mechanical support, enables system expansion, and allows for reconfiguration. This multi-functionality enhances adaptability while keeping the installation process straightforward through a universal connection mechanism.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentEP4435986A1Cable splice system
Publication Date: 2024.09.25 ERICO INTERNATIONAL CORP
  • EP4435986A1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP4435986A1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP4435986A1 patent drawingFigure 3A

AI summary

A splice assembly (120) for conductor (104) can include an enclosure (124), a splice plate (202), and one or more clamps (200). The enclosure (124) can include a first aperture (140) and a second aperture (140) that receive a first conductor (104) and a second conductor (104). The first conductor (104) can extend through the first aperture (140) and can be secured to the splice plate (202) with a first clamp (200). The second conductor (104) can extend through the second aperture (140) and can be secured to the splice plate (202) with a second clamp (200).