Pole-Mounted Locking Strap for Tool-Free Utility Pole Attachment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for attaching lines or devices to utility poles are cumbersome, require specialized training, and are costly due to the need for elevated platforms and multiple tools, leading to increased labor expenses and schedule challenges.
Innovation Solution
A mount system that includes a body, connector, arm, extension, and locking mechanism for secure attachment to a pole, optionally utilizing an aerial drone for remote positioning and attachment, eliminating the need for elevated platforms and tools.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional bolt and nut mounting methods are used, then secure attachment is achieved, but labor cost and time consumption increase due to multiple tools and manual manipulation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple fastening functions into a single integrated strap assembly. The strap integrates the mounting function and the securing function into one component that can be installed as a single unit, eliminating the need for separate bolts, nuts, and washers. This merging of functions directly addresses the contradiction by maintaining secure attachment while reducing the number of manual manipulation steps and tool requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The strap assembly serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as both the mounting bracket and the fastening mechanism. The strap can be configured to wrap around poles of various diameters and can be secured using different methods (twist locks, snap locks, or friction fits). This multi-functionality allows a single component to replace traditional multi-component mounting systems, improving installation speed while maintaining reliability.
2Reliability
If multiple tools are used for mounting, then secure attachment is achieved, but device complexity and labor cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The strap assembly merges the functions of multiple tools into a single integrated component. Instead of requiring separate wrenches for tightening, pliers for bending, and screwdrivers for fastening, the strap incorporates all these functions into one device that can be manipulated by hand or with minimal tools. This directly reduces device complexity while maintaining attachment security.
Solution Approach 2:
The strap design enables self-service installation where the strap can be self-adjusted and self-secured without requiring external tools. The twist lock mechanism, for example, can be operated by simply twisting the strap end, and the friction fit design allows the strap to self-tighten as it wraps around the pole. This self-service capability eliminates the need for multiple tools while ensuring secure attachment.
3Reliability
If technicians work from elevated platforms, then pole attachment is achieved, but safety risks and labor cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The strap assembly is designed to be installed at ground level through self-service mechanisms. The strap can be wrapped around the pole and secured using twist locks or snap locks that operate from the ground, eliminating the need for technicians to climb elevated platforms. This directly addresses the safety risks associated with working at height while maintaining attachment security.
Solution Approach 2:
The strap acts as an intermediary that transfers the attachment function from elevated work to ground-level operation. By designing the strap with extended reach features and ground-operable locking mechanisms, the system mediates between the need for secure pole attachment and the desire to avoid elevated work, allowing the attachment to be secured from the ground while still achieving reliable pole mounting.
4Manufacturing precision
If manual manipulation is required, then precise attachment is achieved, but labor time and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The strap assembly incorporates self-adjusting features that automatically achieve proper tension and positioning without requiring extensive manual manipulation. The friction fit design allows the strap to self-tighten to the correct tension as it wraps around the pole, and the twist lock mechanism automatically engages at the precise locking position. This self-service capability maintains attachment precision while dramatically reducing installation time.
Solution Approach 2:
The strap is pre-configured with predetermined tension zones and locking positions that guide the installation process. The strap end is pre-formed with twist lock features at specific intervals, and the strap body includes friction zones designed to engage at optimal tension points. This preliminary preparation of the strap structure ensures precise attachment is achieved automatically during installation, reducing the need for time-consuming manual adjustments.
Data Source
AI summary
Technology for securing a line, such as a fiber optic line, to a structure, such as a utility pole. In one aspect, the technology provides a mount for securing to a pole. The mount may include a body; a connector that is connectable to an apparatus by pressing together the connector and a corresponding connector of the apparatus; an arm movably attached to the body; an extension operable to move the arm into locking engagement with the body such that the body and arm encircle the pole, and to tighten the body and arm about the pole through movement of the arm; and a locking mechanism for locking the mount in a tightened position about the pole by locking the body and arm in a tightened position about the pole.