Utility Pole Top Reinforcement Using Sandwich Brace
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Solution Overview
Problem
Utility poles, particularly at their upper ends, deteriorate over time, leading to costly replacements, with existing technologies lacking effective solutions for reinforcing these areas at a lower cost than replacement.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus featuring an elongate brace with bolt-accommodating openings, washer plates, and elongate bolts that secure the brace to the pole, providing reinforcement by sandwiching the damaged upper end between the brace and a front support member, thus extending the pole's lifespan at a fraction of the replacement cost.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the upper end of a utility pole is replaced, then structural integrity is restored, but the cost increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The pole reinforcement system is divided into separate components: an elongate brace with legs, washer plates, and elongate bolts. This segmentation allows the reinforcement to be applied selectively to the deteriorated upper end without replacing the entire pole, reducing material costs while restoring structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The elongate brace with legs is positioned within the forked structure of the pole's upper end, with the legs bearing against the inner surfaces of the forked ends. The washer plates and bolts are nested through the pole and brace, creating a compact reinforced assembly that fits within the existing pole structure.
2Reliability
If reinforcement apparatus is added to the pole, then structural integrity is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The reinforcement system is divided into modular components (brace, washer plates, bolts) that can be independently manufactured and assembled, simplifying the overall device complexity while achieving the structural reinforcement goal.
Solution Approach 2:
The elongate brace with integrally formed legs serves multiple functions: it provides structural support, distributes load across the forked pole ends, and creates a mounting surface for the washer plates and bolts. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed.
3Duration of action of stationary object
If the upper end of the pole is reinforced, then the pole lifespan is extended, but the installation process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The elongate brace is pre-formed with integrally attached legs and pre-drilled openings for the bolts, allowing for quick assembly. The washer plates are also pre-prepared with openings aligned to receive the elongate bolts, enabling rapid installation without complex field fabrication.
Solution Approach 2:
The elongate bolts pass through the pole, washer plates, and brace, with nuts on the free ends allowing the structure itself to be self-assembling through straightforward fastening operations, reducing the need for specialized installation equipment or procedures.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for reinforcing an upstanding utility/meter pole having a worn top includes an elongate brace adapted to bear against the pole near a top end of the pole. A washer plate is disposed in overlying relation to the elongate brace. A front support is secured to an opposite side of the pole by an elongate bolt that extends diametrically through the pole and is engaged by a nut to secure the brace and front support in sandwiching relation to the pole. A second embodiment reinforces a cross arm of a pole and a third embodiment ensleeves a pole at its uppermost end in a cylindrical body that serves as a prosthesis for a disintegrating pole top.