Modular Insulated Power Line Framing for Easy Component Replacement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing power line support structures lack modular and customizable designs that allow for easy replacement of damaged components and efficient installation without requiring new holes in utility poles, limiting flexibility and efficiency in power line insulation.
Innovation Solution
The development of insulated power line framings with detachable insulators and retaining member assemblies, featuring a rigid core with non-conductive coatings, allows for modular construction and easy attachment to existing support structures using bolt holes, enabling customizable configurations and reduced part inventory.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional fixed insulator configurations are used, then structural stability is maintained, but flexibility and ease of replacement are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The insulator assembly is divided into separate modular components: the insulator body, the retaining member assembly with cavity, and the mounting bracket. This segmentation allows individual components to be replaced independently without replacing the entire assembly, improving ease of replacement while maintaining structural stability through standardized connection interfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The retaining member assembly incorporates a cavity that receptively receives the insulator, creating a dynamic connection system. The insulator can be inserted into or removed from the cavity, transforming the static fixed configuration into a dynamic reusable one, enabling easy replacement while maintaining structural integrity during operation.
2Reliability
If custom insulator configurations are designed for each application, then insulation efficiency is optimized, but inventory complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting bracket and retaining member assembly are designed as universal components that can accommodate multiple insulator types and configurations. The standardized cavity and mounting interface allow the same bracket assembly to be used with different insulators, maintaining insulation efficiency for various applications while reducing the number of unique parts that need to be inventoried.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows for parameter changes in insulator selection (material, length, configuration) while maintaining the same mounting infrastructure. Different insulator parameters can be selected based on specific application requirements, but all can be mounted using the same bracket and retaining member assembly, reducing inventory complexity.
3Ease of manufacture
If new holes are drilled in utility poles for installation, then secure mounting is achieved, but installation complexity and infrastructure damage increase
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting bracket is pre-configured with bolt holes that align with existing utility pole mounting locations. The retaining member assembly is pre-assembled with the insulator before installation, allowing the entire assembly to be mounted as a unit using existing infrastructure, thereby simplifying installation and avoiding the need to drill new holes in utility poles.
4Ease of repair
If modular detachable connections are used, then ease of replacement is improved, but connection reliability may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The insulator is nested within the retaining member assembly's cavity, creating a secure fitted connection. The insulator's mounting interface is designed to fit precisely within the cavity, providing a stable nested connection that maintains reliability while allowing for easy insertion and removal when replacement is needed.
Data Source
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AI summary
An insulated framing for use with power lines comprising a top retaining member with upper left and right insulators, which extend outwardly from the top retaining member, and which connect to a base member. The base member connects to a power line support structure and has lower left and right insulators. Each of the lower left and right insulators are attached to a retaining member assembly. The insulated framing may be provided in a kit with a plurality of insulators and retaining members.