Spring-Loaded Pedestal Ground Connector for Single-Handed Installation
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing connectors for raised floor systems lack efficient and easy methods for securing ground conductors to pedestals, particularly in confined spaces, and do not facilitate single-handed installation with secure electrical connections.
Innovation Solution
A spring-loaded connector system comprising a first frame member with a hook-shaped section and a second frame member, biased by a spring, which allows for easy attachment to a raised floor pedestal and secure clamping of ground conductors, enabling single-handed installation and accommodating various conductor orientations and pedestal sizes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a traditional connector design is used for raised floor systems, then the connector can provide basic electrical connection, but it lacks efficient and easy methods for securing ground conductors to pedestals in confined spaces and does not facilitate single-handed installation
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is divided into two separate frame members (first frame member and second frame member) that can be independently positioned and operated. This segmentation allows each frame member to perform specific functions - the first frame member engages with the pedestal while the second frame member clamps the conductor, enabling simpler individual operations that can be performed with one hand.
Solution Approach 2:
The second frame member is designed to be movable relative to the first frame member along the pedestal, allowing dynamic adjustment during installation. The spring-loaded mechanism provides automatic return to the clamping position, enabling easy installation and removal while maintaining secure electrical connection during use.
2Reliability
If a secure clamping mechanism is implemented to ensure reliable electrical connection, then the electrical connection reliability improves, but the device complexity and difficulty of operation in confined spaces increases
Solution Approach 1:
The spring-loaded second frame member automatically returns to the clamping position after being moved away, securing the conductor without requiring additional fastening operations. The connector self-adjusts to maintain proper clamping force, eliminating the need for complex adjustment mechanisms or multiple fastening steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The spring acts as an intermediary element between the two frame members, providing the necessary clamping force while allowing for easy movement and installation. The spring mechanism translates simple linear motion into reliable electrical connection, bridging the gap between ease of operation and connection security.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the connector accommodates various conductor orientations and pedestal sizes, then the adaptability improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connector design with two adjustable frame members can accommodate multiple conductor orientations (horizontal, vertical, angled) and various pedestal sizes through the movable second frame member. The spring-loaded mechanism and sliding connection provide universal adaptability across different installation scenarios without requiring multiple specialized connector types.
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 solution provides a secure, efficient, and easy-to-install electrical connection for ground conductors to raised floor pedestals, facilitating single-handed operation and accommodating various conductor and pedestal configurations, enhancing installation ease and reliability in data-center grounding applications.
Implementation Method 1
The spring biases the second frame member towards the general hook shaped section of the first frame member
Data Source
AI summary
An electrical ground connector including a first frame member, a second frame member and a spring. The first frame member has a section with a general hook shape. The general hook shaped section forms a first conductor receiving area adapted to receive a first conductor. The second frame member is slidably connected to the first frame member. The spring biases the second frame member towards the general hook shaped section of the first frame member. The first and/or second frame members form at least one second conductor receiving area adapted to receive a second conductor and locate the second conductor directly against the first conductor in the first conductor receiving area.