Robotic Wire Tensioning for Slack Creation on Live Cables
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current wire tensioning systems in electrical utility applications require manual dexterity and are not suitable for use by remotely operated equipment, making it difficult to maintain tension in electrical cables for tasks like removing or replacing dead-end insulators without risking live powerlines.
Innovation Solution
A wire tensioning system comprising a mount, tensioner, connecting line, and clamps, adapted to be manipulated by robotic appendages, which allows for adjusting the tension of the electrical cable, enabling robotic appendages to perform modifications or repairs by creating slack in the cable while maintaining tension, using suspension mediums and a ratchet mechanism.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional ratchet straps and clamps are used to tension electrical cables, then cable tension can be maintained for insulator replacement, but the system requires high manual dexterity and cannot be operated by remotely operated equipment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the traditional manual ratchet strap mechanism with a motorized tensioning system that can be controlled by remotely operated equipment. The mechanical advantage of the ratchet system is substituted with an electric motor and gear mechanism, allowing robotic appendages to tension cables without requiring manual dexterity while maintaining the same functional outcome of cable tensioning for insulator replacement
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a motorized tensioning device as an intermediary between the remote control system and the electrical cable. This intermediary mechanism translates remote control signals into precise mechanical tensioning actions, enabling remotely operated equipment to manipulate the cable with the same control previously requiring direct human manual operation
2Reliability
If remotely operated equipment is used to manipulate electrical cables, then lineman safety is improved, but existing tensioning systems are not suitable for robotic operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the static, manual tensioning system into a dynamic, motorized system that can be controlled by robotic appendages. The tensioning device incorporates movable components and adjustable mechanisms that respond to remote control signals, enabling the system to adapt to robotic operation while maintaining cable tension for safe insulator replacement by remotely operated equipment
Solution Approach 2:
The patent designs a universal tensioning system that can be operated both by remote control and potentially by manual means, making it compatible with multiple types of operators including robotic appendages. The system integrates motorized actuation with mechanical tensioning components, creating a multi-functional device that maintains cable tension safety while enabling remote operation to protect linemen
3Extent of automation
If motorized tensioning is implemented for robotic operation, then remote manipulation capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a nested structure where the motorized tensioning mechanism is integrated within the existing clamp assembly. The motor, gear train, and tensioning components are housed within the compact clamp structure, allowing robotic operation capability to be added without significantly increasing overall system complexity or requiring separate discrete components
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
Enables robotic appendages to safely and efficiently manage electrical cable tension, allowing for remote operation and reducing the risk of accidents by providing a system that can be controlled and operated without the need for manual dexterity, thus enhancing operational safety and efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
a ratchet mechanism
Implementation Method 2
a ratchet mechanism
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for tensioning an electrical cable adapted to be manipulated by one or more remotely operated robotic appendages. Tensioners mounted to a rigid object configured to adjust the tension of a connecting line attached to an electrical cable such that the tension of the connecting line is applied to a length of the electrical cable such that another portion of the electrical cable becomes slack, thereby allowing one or more robotic appendages to remove, replace, repair, or conduct any alteration or modification to said electrical cable or to a rigid object that supports the electrical cable.