Non-Conductive Stringing Block Insulator for Energized Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current stringing blocks in electricity distribution systems require de-energization of conductors for installation, leading to safety hazards and increased labor and time, as they cannot be energized without risking the crossarm or utility pole becoming energized, and workers must handle conductors multiple times during the installation process.
Innovation Solution
A non-conductive insulator with a v-shaped flange and pin hole configuration, allowing secure attachment to a stringing block and distribution pole or crossarm using a ratcheting strap, enabling the conductor to be energized while in the stringing block and reducing handling efforts by allowing single-time transfer from roller to final resting location.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If current stringing blocks are used to attach conductors to crossarms or utility poles, then the blocks can be installed and conductors can be positioned, but the conductor cannot be energized during installation without risking the crossarm or utility pole becoming energized, requiring de-energization which creates safety hazards and increases labor and time
Solution Approach 1:
The insulator is divided into multiple components: a body portion that attaches to the crossarm or utility pole, and a stringing block portion that holds the conductor. This segmentation allows the conductor to be energized independently during installation while the body remains isolated, eliminating the need for complete de-energization and improving both safety and productivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The insulator body acts as an intermediary component between the conductor and the crossarm or utility pole. It provides electrical isolation, allowing the conductor to be energized during installation without transferring voltage to the crossarm or pole, thereby enabling continuous operation and reducing installation time while maintaining safety.
2Ease of operation
If current stringing blocks are used, then conductors can be positioned in the blocks, but workers must handle the conductor multiple times during installation (4 times), increasing labor effort and time
Solution Approach 1:
The stringing block is merged with the insulator body into a single integrated unit. This combination allows the conductor to be transferred directly from the stringing block to its final position on the insulator in one continuous operation, eliminating the need for multiple handling steps and reducing both labor effort and installation time.
Solution Approach 2:
The stringing block is pre-configured with attachment mechanisms that align with the insulator body's receiving structure. This preliminary configuration enables direct transfer of the conductor without requiring intermediate positioning or rehandling, reducing the number of handling operations from 4 to 1 and improving ease of operation while reducing time loss.
3Strength
If current stringing blocks are bolted to existing insulators, then the blocks can be securely attached, but the procedure requires shutting off power to remove rollers and move conductors, increasing complexity and time
Solution Approach 1:
The attachment mechanism is segmented into a body portion that attaches to the crossarm or utility pole and a stringing block portion that holds the conductor. This segmentation allows the block to be securely attached through the insulator body while maintaining the ability to energize the conductor during installation, reducing procedural complexity while maintaining attachment strength.
Solution Approach 2:
The insulator body serves as an intermediary that provides both secure attachment and electrical isolation. It allows the stringing block to be firmly mounted while enabling conductor energization during installation, eliminating the need to shut off power and reducing installation procedure complexity while maintaining strong attachment.
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
The insulator allows for safe energization of conductors during installation, reducing handling efforts and time, while maintaining safety by securely attaching the stringing block to the distribution pole or crossarm, thus enhancing efficiency and safety in conductor placement.
Implementation Method 1
The insulator having a body. The body being of a nonconductive material at least in part.
Data Source
AI summary
What is disclosed is an insulator for providing insulation between a stringing block for an electrical conductor and a pole or cross arm on which the stringing block is mounted. The insulator is made of a non-conductive material such as plastic. The insulator has an upper opening in the body that is configured for receiving a flange of a stringing roller. The insulator can be configured to be mounted directly to a pole or cross arm, such as by using a ratcheting strap. Alternatively the insulator can be configured to be positioned between the roller and a base, such as those known in the prior art.