Sacrificial Conductor Cap for Electrical Connector De-energization
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
High and medium voltage electrical connectors require costly and time-consuming procedures to confirm de-energization before work can commence, as existing methods like 'spiking' the cable necessitate replacing or extending the cable for reconnection.
Innovation Solution
The development of electrical cable splicing connectors with sacrificial appendages or adapters that can be safely cut through using hydraulic cutters to confirm de-energization, allowing for safe work without damaging the cables, and easily replaced when re-energization is needed.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a grounded spike is driven through the cable to confirm de-energization, then personnel safety is ensured, but the cable must be replaced or extended which increases cost and time
Solution Approach 1:
The invention divides the cable assembly into two separate components: the main cable and a detachable sacrificial spike. The sacrificial spike can be removed and replaced independently without affecting the main cable, allowing safety verification while minimizing cable replacement needs.
Solution Approach 2:
The sacrificial spike is designed as a disposable component that can be safely cut through to verify de-energization. After use, only the inexpensive spike needs replacement rather than the entire cable assembly, reducing both cost and time losses.
2Reliability
If a grounded spike is driven through the cable to confirm de-energization, then personnel safety is ensured, but cable replacement is required which increases cost
Solution Approach 1:
The cable assembly is segmented into a permanent cable portion and a sacrificial spike portion. This segmentation allows the spike to be consumed while preserving the valuable cable material for continued use.
Solution Approach 2:
The sacrificial spike serves as a cheap, disposable component that absorbs the consumable nature of the de-energization verification process, protecting the more valuable cable from being replaced or damaged.
3Reliability
If the cable is cut to confirm de-energization, then safety is verified, but the cable must be reconnected which increases complexity and time
Solution Approach 1:
The invention segments the verification function into a separate sacrificial spike component rather than requiring cutting of the main cable. This eliminates complex reconnection procedures while maintaining safety verification capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The de-energization verification function is extracted from the main cable by using a separate sacrificial spike. This extraction eliminates the need for complex cable cutting and reconnection operations, simplifying the overall process.
Data Source
AI summary
An electrical connector assembly may include a connector body for receiving a power cable and having at least one T-end having a bore therein. An adapter is configured to be received within the bore in the at least one T-end, wherein the adapter comprises a conductive core coupled to the power cable. A sacrificial cap is configured to engage a portion of the adapter extending from the at least one T-end. The sacrificial cap comprises a sacrificial conductor that is coupled to the conductive core of the adapter and configured to be cut through to confirm that the electrical connector assembly has been de-energized.