Temporary Winch Column for Power Line Pole Replacement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for replacing or repairing power transmission line support structures are labor-intensive, unsafe, and result in prolonged power outages due to the need for extensive ground-based winch systems and manual handling of conductors and static lines, which are not universally effective for all types of power line support structures.
Innovation Solution
A winch column device that is temporarily anchored and stabilized adjacent to the existing power transmission line pole, allowing for the disconnection and temporary support of conductors and static lines, maintaining tension, and facilitating their transfer to a new pole, with features like folding for transport, hydraulic and electrical power, and remote control for safety and efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If ground-based winches are placed 4 times the height of conductor location from the existing pole to transfer loads, then the existing pole is protected from overstressing, but the equipment complexity and space requirements increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
A temporary support structure acts as an intermediary between the existing pole and the winch system. This support structure is positioned closer to the existing pole (reducing the 4x height distance requirement) and provides a stable anchor point for the winch lines, thereby maintaining pole stress protection while reducing equipment complexity and setup space requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The load transfer system is segmented into multiple components: the existing pole, the temporary support structure, and the winch system. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, enabling the winch system to be positioned closer to the pole while the temporary support structure absorbs the stress protection function.
2Ease of operation
If multiple ground-based winches and aerial personnel lifts are used for conventional load transfer, then conductor and static line handling is achieved, but labor intensity and safety risks increase
Solution Approach 1:
The functions of multiple ground-based winches and aerial personnel lifts are merged into a single integrated system. The temporary support structure with attached winches provides both the support and the load transfer capability in one location, eliminating the need for separate aerial lift operations and reducing the number of winches required.
Solution Approach 2:
The temporary support structure is designed to be self-supporting and self-anchoring, requiring minimal external assistance for setup and operation. The structure's own weight and grounding provide stability, reducing the need for additional personnel and equipment to maintain system stability during operations.
3Reliability
If conventional methods are used for pole replacement, then conductor transfer is accomplished, but power outage time is prolonged
Solution Approach 1:
The temporary support structure and winch system are pre-positioned and pre-configured before the pole replacement begins. Conductor attachments are made to the temporary structure in advance, so that when the existing pole is removed, the conductors are already supported and ready for quick transfer to the new pole, minimizing outage time.
Solution Approach 2:
The temporary support structure maintains continuous support of the conductors throughout the entire pole replacement process. The winch system remains engaged and active, allowing for continuous tension control and position adjustment, ensuring uninterrupted power supply capability while the pole is being replaced.
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 winch column device significantly reduces manhours required, improves safety by keeping personnel distant from moving parts, and minimizes power outage time by enabling faster and more efficient replacement or repair of power line structural components across various pole types and environments.
Implementation Method 1
hydraulic and electrical power
Implementation Method 2
maintaining tension
Data Source
AI summary
A winch column holds electric power conductors and static lines separate and distanced from an existing power line pole/structure during repair or replacement of the pole/structure. The winch column is temporarily anchored and stabilized to be vertical and adjacent to the existing pole/structure, and winch cables extend from the winch column height-adjustable frame to support the load of the disconnected conductors. Hoist lines also extend from the frame to support the disconnected static lines. After the repair or replacement of the pole/structure, the conductors and static lines are moved, and reconnected, to the new pole, and the winch column may be moved to another existing pole or power line or folded for storage. Whenever the winch cables handle the conductors, tension sensors provided on the frame are used to monitor and report conductor tension, for safe and effective handling and reinstallation on the new pole.