Utility Pole Support System with Ballast Frame and Adjustable Arms
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current systems for providing temporary support to utility poles during excavations in their vicinity are expensive and require significant equipment and human supervision, failing to meet regulatory requirements efficiently.
Innovation Solution
A pole support system comprising a bracing element secured to the utility pole, a ballast support frame with removable mass, and adjustable arms extending between the bracing element and the ballast support frame, allowing for adjustable vertical positioning and reduced equipment and supervision needs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If a truck is used to temporarily support a utility pole during excavation, then the pole stability is improved, but the equipment cost and complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The support system is divided into separate modular components: a bracing element that attaches to the utility pole, a ballast support frame with removable mass, and adjustable arms. This segmentation eliminates the need for a single complex truck-based system while providing equivalent stability through coordinated simple components.
Solution Approach 2:
The bracing element serves as an intermediary component that directly attaches to the utility pole and connects to the simpler ballast support frame system. This intermediary structure transfers and distributes forces more efficiently than direct truck support, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining pole stability.
2Stability of the object's composition
If a truck is used to temporarily support a utility pole, then the pole stability is improved, but the expense and human supervision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses inexpensive, simple components such as steel bracing elements, adjustable arms, and removable ballast blocks that can be easily manufactured and replaced if needed. These cheap components collectively provide the same stability function as an expensive truck, dramatically reducing overall system cost.
Solution Approach 2:
The ballast support frame with removable mass and adjustable arms is designed to be self-configuring and self-adjusting. The system inherently provides stability through its mechanical design without requiring expensive operator supervision or complex control systems, reducing both direct and indirect costs.
3Adaptability or versatility
If adjustable arms are used in the support system, then the adaptability to different pole positions is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The arms are designed with adjustable length and angle capabilities, allowing the system to dynamically adapt to different utility pole positions, heights, and excavation configurations. This dynamic adjustability is achieved through simple mechanical means rather than complex automated systems, maintaining ease of use while providing versatility.
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 system provides effective temporary support to utility poles during excavations with reduced costs and human intervention, adhering to regulatory requirements by leveraging leverage and adjustable components for enhanced stability.
Implementation Method 1
a ballast support frame comprising a base, positionable at a location spaced horizontally apart from the utility pole; mass positionable on, and removable from, the base of the ballast support frame
Data Source
AI summary
A pole support system provides temporary support to a utility pole and comprises: a bracing element positioned adjacent to, and elongated in the direction of elongation of, the utility pole and securable to the utility pole; a ballast support frame comprising a base, positionable at a location spaced horizontally apart from the utility pole; mass positionable on, and removable from, the base of the ballast support frame; and a support system comprising one or more arms extending between the bracing element and the ballast support frame.