Semi-Circular Removal Tool for Non-Destructive Splice Cable Extraction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for removing splices from electrical power cables often require cutting the cable, which is undesirable and can damage the splice, making it difficult to reconnect the cable without destroying the splice.
Innovation Solution
A tool with an elongated slide of semi-circular cross-section and a handle is used to compress the spring-biased vise-grip, allowing the cable to be released from the splice without cutting or damaging it, utilizing a funnel-shaped guide to facilitate the process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a lineman cuts the splice at the plastic disc to release the cable, then the cable can be removed from the splice, but the splice is destroyed and cannot be reused
Solution Approach 1:
A removal tool is introduced as an intermediary device between the lineman and the splice. The tool engages with the vise-grip mechanism and uses a sliding action to compress the spring and expand the vise-grip, thereby releasing the cable without requiring cutting of the splice. This mediator enables cable removal while preserving the splice structure for potential reuse.
Solution Approach 2:
The removal tool exploits the dynamic characteristics of the spring-biased vise-grip mechanism. By applying force through the sliding tool, the spring is compressed and the vise-grip is dynamically expanded to its maximum opening, allowing cable release. This dynamic approach replaces the static destructive cutting method with a controlled mechanical expansion process.
2Ease of manufacture
If the spring is compressed to expand the vise-grip for cable installation, then the cable can be inserted into the splice, but the expanded state prevents splice removal
Solution Approach 1:
The removal tool applies force in the opposite direction of cable installation. During installation, force is applied to compress the spring and expand the vise-grip to grip the cable. During removal, the sliding tool applies force in the reverse direction, further compressing the spring and expanding the vise-grip to its maximum opening, thereby releasing the cable. This inversion of the force application direction enables removal without destruction.
Solution Approach 2:
The removal tool performs a preliminary expansion action on the vise-grip before cable removal. By sliding the tool into the splice and compressing the spring, the vise-grip is pre-expanded to its maximum capacity, creating the necessary clearance for smooth cable extraction. This preliminary action prepares the mechanism for easy cable release without requiring destructive measures.
3Productivity
If a lineman destroys many splices on a typical day, then cable maintenance can be performed, but material waste and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The removal tool enables recovery of the splice material that would otherwise be discarded. By providing a non-destructive removal method, the splice housing and internal components can be recovered and potentially reused for future cable splicing operations. This transforms the traditional process of discarding splices after single-use into a system where splices can be recovered and reused, reducing material waste and costs.
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 the removal of splices from electrical power cables without damaging the splice or cutting the cable, simplifying the process of reconnecting the cable and reducing the need for frequent splice destruction.
Implementation Method 1
A spring coiled about the housing longitudinal axis with one end butted against the disc and the other end butted against the proximal end of the split-ring vise-grip biases the vise-grip toward closure.
Data Source
AI summary
A tool facilitates removal of a splice used to serially connect lengths of cable into an electrical power line. The tool has an elongated slide of semi-circular cross-section with outer and inner diameters suited to saddle the cable and snugly enter into an open end of the splice and into abutment against a spring-biased split-ring vise grip in the splice. With the leading end of the tool butted against the spring-biased vise grip, application of manual force to a handle on the trailing end of the tool drives the vise grip to compress its biasing spring, expanding the vise-grip and releasing the cable for removal from the vise grip and the splice without damaging the splice or cutting the cables connected to the splice.