Roll-by Spacer and Trolley System for Cable Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
The installation of overhead conductor cables is a tedious and expensive process due to the need for multiple installation devices that must be replaced with permanent retention devices, resulting in high costs and operational burdens for utility companies.
Innovation Solution
A roll-by spacer and trolley system that includes a trolley with rotatable wheels and a removably suspended spacer connected via a connecting element, allowing the spacer to be easily transitioned from an installation device to a permanent retention structure without the need for extensive device replacement, using a wire engagement structure to secure the spacer to the wire.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional roll-by blocks and messengertrolleys are used for cable installation, then cables can be installed along the wire, but extensive device replacement is required resulting in high installation time and costs
Solution Approach 1:
The spacer is designed to perform dual functions: serving as both an installation device during cable stringing and as a permanent retention device for holding the cable in place. The connecting element allows the spacer to be easily attached to and removed from the trolley, enabling the same component to fulfill both temporary and permanent roles, thereby eliminating the need for separate installation and retention devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention merges the functions of the roll-by block, messenger trolley, and permanent spacer into a single integrated system. The spacer connects to the trolley via the connecting element, combining the cable support function, the rolling mechanism, and the permanent retention function into one unified assembly that reduces the number of separate components and installation steps.
2Reliability
If multiple installation devices are used for cable installation, then cables can be properly installed and retained, but the quantity of equipment and installation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The spacer serves multiple functions within a single component design. It provides cable support during installation, connects to the trolley for transport along the wire, and remains as a permanent retention device. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate devices needed while maintaining reliable cable retention throughout the installation process and beyond.
Solution Approach 2:
The connecting element is designed as a separate, removable component that segments the connection between the spacer and trolley. This segmentation allows the spacer to be easily attached and detached, simplifying the overall system while maintaining the ability to securely hold the cable during installation and then be removed for permanent retention.
3Productivity
If traditional installation methods are used, then cables can be installed, but high operational costs are incurred due to extensive labor and equipment
Solution Approach 1:
The spacer's dual functionality as both installation and permanent retention device eliminates the need for separate equipment and reduces labor requirements. Utility workers no longer need to remove roll-by blocks and install separate spacers at each location, significantly reducing installation time and operational costs while maintaining proper cable retention.
Solution Approach 2:
The spacer is designed to be self-sufficient, performing both the temporary support function during installation and the permanent retention function afterward. The connecting element enables easy attachment and detachment, allowing the system to serve itself through the spacer's inherent design rather than requiring additional devices or extensive manual intervention.
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
This system reduces installation time and costs by allowing cables to be strung and retained without exchanging installation devices for permanent retention, facilitating efficient transition of spacers to permanent cable retention without significant labor, thus lowering operational expenses for utility companies.
Implementation Method 1
a first wire contact surface positioned to contact and roll along the wire
Implementation Method 2
A connecting element is positioned between the trolley and the spacer, wherein the connecting element has at least a first position wherein the trolley and spacer are connected and a second position wherein the trolley and spacer are disconnected
Implementation Method 3
a second wire contact surface positioned to contact the wire when the connecting element is in the second position
Data Source
AI summary
A roll-by spacer and trolley system for use with a wire and method thereof is provided. The system includes a trolley having at least one rotatable wheel. The rotatable wheel has a first wire contact surface positioned to contact and roll along the wire. A spacer is suspended from the trolley with a connecting element between the trolley and the spacer. The connecting element has a first position wherein the trolley and spacer are connected and a second position wherein the trolley and spacer are disconnected. A wire engagement structure is connected to the spacer. The wire engagement structure has a second wire contact surface that contacts the wire when the connecting element is in the second position. The second wire contact surface is positioned above first wire contact surface when the connecting element is in the first position.