Pivoting Busway Splice Joint for Faster Offset Section Connection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional busway joint connections are cumbersome, time-consuming, and inefficient, requiring multiple tools and manual handling of heavy or delicate busbars, which complicates the installation process and can be energy inefficient due to extra parts needed.
Innovation Solution
A busway joint system with a pivot shaft and rotatable design that allows for easy alignment and connection of busway sections, featuring a support with a divot and ramp for smooth movement and a pin to secure the busbars, enabling the joint to transition between disconnected and connected positions without lifting heavy components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional busway joints with splice plates are used, then electrical continuity is achieved, but the connection process becomes time-consuming and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate components (busbars, splice plates, fasteners) into a single pre-assembled busway joint unit. This merging of components allows the entire electrical connection assembly to be installed as one unit, dramatically reducing installation time while maintaining electrical continuity through the integrated conductive path.
Solution Approach 2:
The busway joint is pre-assembled and pre-configured with all necessary electrical connections and mechanical components before reaching the installation site. This preliminary assembly ensures proper electrical continuity is built-in, eliminating the need for time-consuming on-site assembly and connection work.
2Reliability
If conventional busway joints with multiple parts are used, then electrical connection is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple functional components into a single busway joint assembly. The conductive busbars, insulative supports, and fastening mechanisms are combined into one unified structure, reducing the number of separate parts to be handled and installed while ensuring reliable electrical connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The busway joint is designed as a universal connector that performs multiple functions simultaneously: providing electrical continuity through conductive busbars, mechanical support through insulative components, and secure attachment through integrated fastening features. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate specialized components.
3Reliability
If traditional splicing methods are used, then busway sections are connected, but ease of operation deteriorates due to delicate insertion requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The busway joint incorporates movable or adjustable components that allow for dynamic alignment during installation. The joint can be positioned and oriented to match the busway sections being connected, making the installation process more forgiving and easier to perform correctly without requiring extremely precise manual alignment.
Solution Approach 2:
The busway joint serves as an intermediary component with built-in alignment features and guiding structures that facilitate easy connection between busway sections. The joint's design includes features that guide the busbars into proper alignment automatically, eliminating the need for delicate manual insertion and positioning.
Data Source
AI summary
A busway system including a first electrical busway section, a second electrical busway section, the first and the second electrical busway sections being offset from each other, a busway joint for coupling the first and the second electrical busway sections. The busway joint including a plurality of busbars, a plurality of splice plates electrically coupled to the plurality of busbars, the plurality of splice plates and the plurality of busbars configured to electrically couple the first and the second electrical busway sections, and a pivot shaft passing through the plurality of busbars and splice plates.