Split Bolt Connector With Axially Fixed Nut and Spacer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional split bolt electrical connectors lack versatility, face issues with pressure bar member separation due to loose nuts, and have limited connection options, making installation difficult and prone to accidental separation.
Innovation Solution
A split bolt electrical connector assembly with a nut that is axially fixed and rotatable with respect to a pressure bar member, featuring a spacer with a removable connecting portion for increased connection options and secure attachment to a support, utilizing a design with a conductor receiving channel, pressure bar member, and threaded post for enhanced stability and versatility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional split bolt electrical connectors are used, then the basic electrical connection function is achieved, but the connectors lack versatility and have limited connection options
Solution Approach 1:
The split bolt electrical connector is designed with multiple connection options by integrating a threaded post for support attachment, a removable spacer for positioning, and a nut-pressure bar assembly for electrical connection. This multi-functional design allows the same connector to serve various installation needs without requiring multiple different connector types.
2Reliability
If nuts are threadably connected to conventional split bolt electrical connectors to move pressure bar members, then electrical connection is achieved, but the pressure bar members can become separated when nuts loosen over time
Solution Approach 1:
The pressure bar member is pre-positioned within the nut before the nut is threaded onto the split bolt legs. This preliminary positioning ensures that the pressure bar member is already in place and will not become separated even if the nut loosens over time, as it is constrained by the nut's internal structure from the beginning of the assembly process.
3Reliability
If pressure bar members are held in place by the user during engagement, then accidental separation is prevented, but the installation process becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The nut is designed with an internal structure that automatically holds and positions the pressure bar member during the threading process. As the nut is screwed onto the split bolt legs, its internal geometry maintains the pressure bar member in the correct position without requiring the user to manually hold it, making the installation process easier while still preventing accidental separation.
4Adaptability or versatility
If conventional split bolt electrical connectors are used, then simple structure is maintained, but connection options are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The connector assembly is divided into separate functional components: a threaded post for support attachment, a removable spacer for positioning, and a nut-pressure bar assembly for electrical connection. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function while maintaining overall simplicity, and the modular design enables flexibility in installation configurations.
Data Source
AI summary
An electrical connector includes a split bolt having a base and first and second outwardly extending legs. A conductor receiving channel is formed between the legs. A nut threadably engages the legs and has upper and lower surfaces and an opening through it. A pressure bar member is movably received in the conductor receiving channel. A head of the pressure bar member contacts the lower surface of the nut and a body of the pressure bar member extends through the opening in the nut. A spacer is disposed in the conductor receiving channel between the base and the head of the pressure bar member.