Utility Strand Securement Member With Multi-Aperture Strap Locking

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Solution Overview

Problem

There is a need for an efficient and durable method to secure communication strands to messenger strands in overhead utility transmission lines, as existing methods lack a robust and reliable solution.

Innovation Solution

A securement member with a main body and strap system, featuring multiple apertures and biased clips, is used to securely fasten communication strands to messenger strands by passing the strap through apertures and engaging with fasteners, ensuring stability and resistance to movement.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If traditional securement methods are used to attach communication strands to messenger strands, then the connection can be established, but the connection lacks durability and reliability

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconnection reliabilityVSAvoidsecurement device complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The securement member is divided into distinct functional segments: a main body portion for structural support, a strap portion for encircling the strands, and a clip portion for fastening. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while working together to provide a reliable connection that is more durable than traditional methods.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Reliability

If a robust securement system is implemented to ensure durability, then connection reliability improves, but the installation process becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesecurement durabilityVSAvoidinstallation ease
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The strap is pre-formed with a configuration that allows it to be easily inserted through the main body portion and around the strands before being secured by the clip. The clip is pre-positioned on the main body, ready to engage the strap. This preliminary arrangement of components simplifies the installation process while maintaining securement durability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Strength

If multiple apertures and fasteners are used to secure the strap, then the strap is firmly anchored, but the device structure becomes more complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestrap anchoring strengthVSAvoiddevice structural complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The main body portion integrates multiple functions: it provides structural support, contains the apertures for strap passage, and houses the clip mechanism. By merging these functions into a single integrated component rather than separate parts, the design achieves strong strap anchoring while minimizing overall device structural complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Data Source

PatentUS11990742B2Securement member for utility strands
Publication Date: 2024.05.21 HUBBELL INC
  • US11990742B2 patent drawing
  • US11990742B2 patent drawing
  • US11990742B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A securement member for connecting strands includes a main body. A first aperture, a second aperture, and a third aperture extend through the main body. A fastener is coupled to the main body and is positioned adjacent to the first aperture. A strap is selectively received within the first aperture, the second aperture, and the third aperture in order to secure the strands to the main body. The fastener engages the strap to secure the strap relative to the main body.