Sacrificial Appendage Grounding Rod for Cable Connectors
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for de-energizing and grounding medium and high voltage electrical connectors are costly and time-consuming, requiring partial disassembly and replacement of cables, which complicates safe servicing and grounding processes.
Innovation Solution
A grounding rod system for sacrificial appendages in electrical cable connectors allows for confirmation of de-energization by cutting a sacrificial appendage and subsequent connection to system ground without disassembling the connector, using a ground rod that integrates with the connector's design for safe and efficient grounding.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a grounded spike is driven through the cable to confirm de-energization, then safety is improved, but the cable must be replaced or extended which increases cost and time
Solution Approach 1:
The cable assembly is segmented into a permanent cable portion and a removable sacrificial appendage. The sacrificial appendage can be cut to confirm de-energization without affecting the main cable, eliminating the need to replace or extend the entire cable while maintaining safety.
Solution Approach 2:
The sacrificial appendage is designed as a disposable component that can be cut and discarded after serving its safety verification purpose. This eliminates the need to replace expensive main cables while maintaining the safety function of physical de-energization confirmation.
2Reliability
If a ground clamp is attached to ground the system, then grounding is achieved, but the splice must be partially disassembled which increases time consumption
Solution Approach 1:
The grounding means is pre-integrated into the sacrificial appendage during manufacturing. When the appendage is installed on the connector, the grounding capability is already in place, eliminating the need for partial disassembly of the splice to attach ground clamps later.
Solution Approach 2:
The grounding function is merged with the sacrificial appendage structure. The grounding means and the appendage become a single integrated component, allowing both de-energization verification and grounding to be achieved through the same component without additional disassembly steps.
3Reliability
If current methods are used for de-energization confirmation and grounding, then safety functions are achieved, but the process is costly and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The sacrificial appendage serves multiple functions: it provides physical de-energization verification when cut, and it provides grounding capability when the grounding means is connected. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate operations and components, improving efficiency while maintaining safety.
Data Source
AI summary
A grounding rod for a sacrificial appendage of an electrical cable connector, such as a splicing connector for joining two or more electrical cables, is provided. The sacrificial appendage is comprised of a feature for enabling personnel to ensure that the connector is deenergized, and once this is confirmed, the sacrificial appendage may be removed and replaced with a ground rod to which a grounding device can be connected to ground the system.