• 专利附录
  • 专利说明
  • 权利要求
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    • 专利摘要:
    wedge connector system for connecting elongated first and second electrical conductors includes a c-shaped sleeve element, a wedge element and a locking mechanism. the sleeve element defines a sleeve cavity and opposing first and second sleeve channels on each side of the sleeve cavity. the wedge element includes a wedge body provided with opposite first and second wedge side walls. the locking mechanism includes a locking element which includes a sleeve engaging part, and a fastening mechanism coupled to the wedge element. the sleeve element and the wedge element are configured to capture the first and second conductors in such a way that the first conductor is received in the first sleeve channel between the sleeve element and the first wedge side wall and the second conductor is received in the second sleeve channel between the sleeve element and the second wedge side wall. the locking mechanism is mounted on the sleeve element and the wedge element so that the sleeve engaging part interacts with the sleeve element and the clamping mechanism can be operated to force the wedge element into the cavity of the sleeve for applying fastening loads to the first and second conductors.
    公开号:BR112019023617A2
    申请号:R112019023617-1
    申请日:2018-05-01
    公开日:2020-06-02
    发明作者:Murugiah Sachidanandan；James Johnson Barry；Mitchell Steve；Guppy Jonathan
    申请人:Te Connectivity Corporation；Tyco Electronics Canada Ulc；
    IPC主号:
    专利说明:

    Descriptive Report of the Patent of Invention for CONNECTOR SET OF WEDGE AND METHOD FOR THE SAME.
    RELATED ORDER (S)
    [0001] This application claims the benefit of and priority from U.S. Provisional Patent Application Number 62 / 503,695, filed on May 9, 2017, the description of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.
    FIELD OF THE INVENTION
    [0002] The present invention relates to electrical connectors and, more specifically, to electrical power utility connectors and methods and connections that include the same.
    BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
    [0003] Electric utility companies that build, operate and maintain overhead and / or underground power distribution networks and systems use connectors to derive main power transmission conductors and supply electricity to distribution line conductors, some sometimes referred to as bypass conductors. The main power line conductors and the bypass conductors are typically high voltage cables that are relatively large in diameter, and the main power line conductor can be differently sized from the bypass conductor, requiring specially designed connector components to properly connect the bypass conductors to main power line conductors. Generally speaking, four types of connectors are commonly used for such purposes, namely screw connectors, compression type connectors, wedge connectors and cross wedge connectors.
    [0004] Screw connectors typically employ molten metal connector parts or connector halves formed as
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    2/39 mirrored images of each other, sometimes referred to as shell connectors. Each of the connector halves defines opposite channels that axially receive the main power conductor and the bypass conductor, respectively, and the connector halves are screwed together to secure the metallic connector parts to the conductors.
    [0005] Compression connectors, instead of using separate connector parts, can include a single metal part connector that is bent or deformed around the main power conductor and the bypass conductor to secure them together.
    [0006] Wedge connectors are also known to include a C-shaped channel member that hooks over the main power and bypass conductor, and a wedge member that has channels on their opposite sides is routed through the C-shaped member, deflecting the ends of the C-shaped member and trapping the conductors between the channels in the wedge member and the ends of the C-shaped member. Such a wedge connector is commercially available from TE Connectivity and is known such as an AMPACT Tap or Stirrup Connector. AMPACT connectors include channel members of different sizes to accommodate a given range of conductor sizes, and multiple wedge sizes for each channel member. Each wedge accommodates a different driver size.
    [0007] Exemplary cross wedge connectors are described in US Patent Numbers 8,176,625, 7,997,943, 7,862,390, 7,845,990, 7,686,661, 7,677,933, 7,494,385, 7,387,546, 7,309,263, and 7,182,653.
    SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
    [0008] According to the modalities of the present invention, a system
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    3/39 wedge connector theme for connecting an elongated first and second electrical conductor includes a C-shaped sleeve member, a wedge member and a locking mechanism. The glove member defines a glove cavity and opposing first and second glove channels on each side of the glove cavity. The wedge member includes a wedge body that has an opposite first and second wedge side walls. The locking mechanism includes a locking member that includes a sleeve coupling portion, and a retention mechanism coupled to the wedge member. The glove member and the wedge member are configured to capture the first and second conductors so that the first conductor is received within the first glove channel between the glove member and the first wedge side wall and the second conductor is received within the second glove channel between the glove member and the second wedge side wall. The locking mechanism is mountable on the glove member and the wedge member so that the glove coupling portion interacts with the glove member and the retention mechanism can be operated to force the wedge member into the cavity of the glove. glove to apply holding loads on the first and second conductors.
    [0009] In accordance with embodiments of the present invention, a method for connecting an elongated first and second electrical conductor includes providing a wedge connector assembly which includes: a C-shaped sleeve member defining a glove cavity and first and second opposite glove channels on each side of the glove cavity; a wedge member that includes a wedge body that has an opposite first and second wedge side walls; and a locking mechanism. The locking mechanism includes a locking member that includes a sleeve coupling portion, and a retention mechanism coupled to the wedge member. The method also includes: using
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    4/39 the glove member and the wedge member, capture the first and second conductors so that the first conductor is received within the first glove channel between the glove member and the first wedge side wall and the second conductor is received within the second glove channel between the glove member and the second wedge side wall; and mounting the locking mechanism on the glove member and the wedge member so that the glove coupling portion interacts with the glove member; and subsequently operating the retention mechanism to force the wedge member into the glove cavity to apply retention loads on the first and second conductors. [0010] In accordance with embodiments of the present invention, an electrical connection includes a wedge connector assembly and elongated first and second electrical conductors. The wedge connector assembly includes: a C-shaped glove member defining a glove cavity and opposing first and second glove channels on each side of the glove cavity; a wedge member that includes a wedge body that has an opposite first and second wedge side walls; and a locking mechanism. The locking mechanism includes a locking member that includes a sleeve coupling portion, and a retention mechanism attached to the wedge member. The first and second elongated electrical conductors are captured between the glove member and the wedge member so that the first conductor is received within the first glove channel between the glove member and the first wedge side wall and the second conductor is received within the second glove channel between the glove member and the second wedge side wall. The locking mechanism is mounted on the glove member and the wedge member so that the glove coupling portion interacts with the glove member. The retention mechanism secures the wedge member within the glove cavity to apply retention loads to the first and second conductors.
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    [0011] Features, advantages and additional details of the present invention will be appreciated by those skilled in the art of reading the figures and detailed description of the preferred embodiments which follow, such description being merely illustrative of the present invention.
    BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
    [0012] Figure 1 is a front perspective view, exploded of a wedge connector system according to the modalities of the invention and alongside conductors.
    [0013] Figure 2 is a front perspective view of the wedge connector system of Figure 1 that illustrates the installation of the wedge connector system on the conductors.
    [0014] Figure 3 is a front perspective view of a connection that includes a wedge connector assembly formed from the wedge connector system of Figure 1.
    [0015] Figure 4 is a front perspective view of the wedge connector assembly of Figure 3 from an opposite side of the wedge connector assembly.
    [0016] Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view of the wedge connector assembly of Figure 3 taken along line 5-5 of Figure 3.
    [0017] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view of the wedge connector assembly of Figure 3 taken along line 6-6 of Figure 5.
    [0018] Figure 7 is a side view of a glove member that forms a part of the wedge connector system of Figure 1.
    [0019] Figure 8 is a rear perspective view of a wedge member that forms part of the wedge connector system of Figure 1.
    [0020] Figure 9 is a front perspective view, exploded of a wedge connector system according to additional modalities of the invention and a pair of conductors.
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    [0021] Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view of the wedge connector assembly of Figure 9 taken along line 10-10 of Figure 9.
    [0022] Figure 11 is a front perspective view, exploded of a wedge connector system according to additional modalities of the invention and a pair of conductors.
    [0023] Figure 12 is a cross-sectional view of the wedge connector assembly of Figure 11 taken along line 12-12 of Figure 11.
    [0024] Figure 13 is a front perspective view, exploded of a wedge connector system according to additional modalities of the invention and a pair of conductors.
    [0025] Figure 14 is a cross-sectional view of the wedge connector assembly of Figure 13 taken along line 14-14 of Figure 13.
    [0026] Figure 15 is a front perspective view of a wedge connector system and wedge connector assembly according to additional embodiments of the invention.
    [0027] Figure 16 is a front perspective view, exploded of the wedge connector system of Figure 15.
    [0028] Figure 17 is a rear perspective view, exploded of the wedge connector system of Figure 15.
    [0029] Figure 18 is a side view of a locking member that forms part of the wedge connector system of Figure 15.
    [0030] Figure 19 is a side view of a drive screw and a retaining clip that form a part of the wedge connector system of Figure 15.
    [0031] Figure 20 is a side view of the wedge connector system of Figure 15 mounted on a pair of conductors, where the wedge connector system is in an open position.
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    [0032] Figure 21 is a side view, on the opposite side from the view of Figure 20, of a connection that includes the wedge connector assembly formed from the wedge connector system of Figure 15.
    [0033] Figure 22 is a cross-sectional view of the connection in Figure 21 made along line 22-22 in Figure 21.
    [0034] Figure 23 is a front perspective view of a wedge connector system and wedge connector assembly according to additional embodiments of the invention.
    [0035] Figure 24 is a rear perspective view, exploded of the wedge connector system of Figure 23.
    [0036] Figure 25 is a front perspective view, exploded of the wedge connector system of Figure 23.
    [0037] Figure 26 is a side view of a locking member that forms a part of the wedge connector system of Figure 23.
    [0038] Figure 27 is a side view of the wedge connector system of Figure 23 mounted on a pair of conductors, where the wedge connector system is in an open position.
    [0039] Figure 28 is a side view, opposite the view of Figure 27, of a connection that includes the wedge connector assembly of Figure 23.
    [0040] Figure 29 is a cross-sectional view of the connection in Figure 28 made along line 29-29 in Figure 28.
    [0041] Figure 30 is a rear perspective view, exploded of a wedge connector system according to additional embodiments of the invention.
    [0042] Figure 31 is a side view of a locking member that forms a part of the wedge connector system of Figure 30.
    [0043] Figure 32 is a cross-sectional view of a connection that includes the wedge connector system of Figure 30 taken along line 32-32 in Figure 30.
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    DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF MODALITIES OF THE INVENTION [0044] The present invention will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which illustrative embodiments of the invention are shown. In the drawings, relative sizes of regions or features can be exaggerated for clarity. This invention can, however, be incorporated in many different forms and should not be considered as limited to the modalities presented here; instead, these modalities are provided so that this description will be extensive and complete, and will fully convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art.
    [0045] It will be understood that when an element is referred to as being coupled or connected to another element, it may be directly coupled or connected to the other element or intervening elements may also be present. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being directly coupled or directly connected to another element, there are no intervening elements present. Equal numbers refer to equal elements in the whole. [0046] In addition, spatially relative terms, such as under, below, below, above, above and the like can be used here to facilitate description to describe an element or characteristic relationship to another element (s) or characteristic (s) as illustrated in the figures. It will be understood that the spatially relative terms are intended to cover different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientation shown in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures is inverted, elements described as under or below other elements or features would then be oriented on the other elements or features. Thus, the exemplary term under can encompass both an over and under orientation. The device can be otherwise oriented
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    9/39 (rotated 90 degrees or in other orientations) and the spatially related descriptors used here interpreted accordingly.
    [0047] The terminology used here is for the purpose of describing specific modalities only and is not intended to limit the invention. As used herein, singular forms one, one and o are intended to include plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will also be understood that the terms comprises and / or comprising, when used in this specification, specifies the presence of declared characteristics, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but does not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other characteristics , integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or their groups. As used herein, the expression and / or includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.
    [0048] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by someone versed in the technique to which this invention belongs. It will also be understood that terms, such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries, should be interpreted as having a meaning that is consistent with their meaning in the context of this description and the relevant technique and will not be interpreted in an idealized or excessively formal sense unless that expressly so defined here.
    [0049] As used here, monolithic means an object that is a single unitary piece formed or composed of a material without joints or seams.
    [0050] With reference to Figures 1-8, a wedge connector system or kit 101 and a wedge connector assembly 100 in accordance with embodiments of the present invention are shown here. The wedge connector system 101 can be used to form a connection 5
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    10/39 (Figures 3-6) which includes a pair of elongated electrical conductors 12, 14 (for example, power lines) mechanically and electrically coupled by the wedge connector assembly 100. The connector assembly 100 can be adapted to use as a bypass connector to connect an elongated bypass conductor 12 to an elongated main conductor 14 of a utility power distribution system, for example.
    [0051] The bypass conductor 12, sometimes referred to as a distribution conductor, can be a known electrically conductive metallic high voltage cable or line that has a generally cylindrical shape in an exemplary embodiment. The main conductor 14 can also be a generally cylindrical high voltage cable line. Lead conductor 12 and main conductor 14 can be of the same wire gauge or different wire gauges in different applications and the connector assembly 100 is adapted to accommodate a range of wire gauges for each of the lead conductor 12 and of the main conductor 14. The conductor 12 has a geometric axis in the length direction BB and the conductor 14 has a geometric axis in the direction of length AA.
    [0052] When installed in branch conductor 12 and main conductor 14, connector assembly 100 provides electrical connectivity between main conductor 14 and branch conductor 12 to supply electrical power from main conductor 14 to branch conductor 12 in, for example, an electrical utility power distribution system. The power distribution system may include a number of main conductors 14 of the same or different wire gauge, and a number of branch conductors 12 of the same or different wire gauge.
    [0053] The conductors 12, 14 each include a plurality of separable elongated wires 12A, 14A. Alternatively, one of the drivers
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    12, 14 can be solid.
    [0054] With reference to Figure 1, the wedge connector system 101, and the wedge connector assembly 100 formed therefrom, Includes a C-shaped channel or sleeve member 110, a wedge member 120, a locking mechanism drive / lock 151, and a retract mechanism 181 (Figure 5). The glove member 110 and the wedge member 120 are movable relative to each other to cooperatively mechanically capture the conductors 12, 14 between them and electrically connect the conductors 12, 14 to each other.
    [0055] With reference to Figure 3, the assembled connector set 100 has a geometric axis in the L-L length direction and a transversal geometric axis M-M.
    [0056] The glove member 110 has a C shape in cross section. Referring to Figure 7, the glove member 110 tapers inwardly from a rear end 110A to a front end 110B. The glove member 110 includes a first arched sidewall or receiver or hook portion 114, a second arched sidewall or receiver or hook portion 116, and a connecting portion or body 112 extending between them. The hook portions 114, 116 extend longitudinally along opposite side edges of the body 112. The glove member 110 still includes an inner surface 118. The glove member 110 forms a chamber or cavity 115 defined by the inner surface 118. In some embodiments, the glove member 110 is resiliently flexible.
    [0057] The first hook portion 114 forms a first cradle or concave sleeve member channel 114A positioned at the end of cavity 115. The first channel 114A is adapted to receive and make contact with conductor 14 at a corner of channel 114A. The first hook portion 114 forms a radial fold that surrounds the con
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    12/39 duct 14 by approximately 180 circumferential degrees in an exemplary embodiment, so that a more distant end 114B of the first hook portion 114 faces in the direction of the second hook portion 116A.
    [0058] Simultaneously, the second hook portion 116 forms a second cradle or concave glove member channel 116A positioned at an opposite end from 115 and opening to oppose channel 114A. The second channel 116A is adapted to receive and make contact with the conductor 12 at an apex of the channel 116. The second hook portion 116 forms a radial fold that surrounds the conductor 12 by approximately 180 circumferential degrees in an exemplary manner, so that the farthest end 116B of the second hook portion 116 faces towards the first hook portion 114.
    [0059] The more distant ends 114B and 116B define a slit that extends longitudinally 117 between them that opens into the chamber 115.
    [0060] With reference to Figure 7, the glove member 110 has a geometric axis in the length direction LS-LS. The first channel 114A defines a channel axis C1-C1. The second channel 116A defines a channel axis C2-C2. According to some modalities and as illustrated, the geometric axes of channel C1-C1 and C2-C2 form an oblique angle to each other and, in some modalities, the oblique angle is in the range of approximately 10 to 12 degrees. According to some modalities and as illustrated, the channel geometric axes C1-C1 and C2-C2 form an oblique angle in relation to the geometric axis in the direction of the L-L connector. When the connector assembly 100 is mounted, the channel geometric axes C1-C1 and C2-C2 each extend transversely to and intersect the transverse geometric axis M-M. According to some modalities and as illustrated, the transverse geometric axis
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    M-M forms an oblique angle with each of the channel geometry axes C1 -C1 and C2-C2. Side channels 114A, 116A taper inward or converge from rear end 110A to front end 110B.
    [0061] With reference to Figures 1 and 8, the wedge member 120 includes a body 122 that has arched, opposite retaining sides or side walls 124, 126, opposite faces or end walls 123, 125, and external faces or walls and opposite edges 128, 129. The wedge member 120 tapers inwardly from a relatively wide rear end 120A to a relatively narrow front end 120B.
    [0062] The retaining side walls 124, 126 define concave grooves or channels, opposite 124A, 126A. Channels 124A, 126A taper inward or converge from rear end 120A to front end 120B.
    [0063] The wedge member 120 has a geometric axis in the LW-LW length direction (Figure 8). Channel 124A defines a channel axis C3-C3. Channel 126A defines a channel axis C4-C4. According to some modalities and as illustrated, the channel geometry axes C3-C3 and C4-C4 form an oblique angle to each other and, in some modalities, the oblique angle is in the range of approximately 10 to 12 degrees. According to some modalities and as illustrated, the channel geometry axes C3-C3 and C4-C4 form an oblique angle in relation to the geometry axis in the direction of connector length LL When the connector assembly 100 is mounted, the geometric axes of channel C3-C3 and C4C4 each extend transversely to and intersect the transverse geometric axis MM. According to some modalities and as illustrated, the transverse geometric axis M-M forms an oblique angle with each of the channel geometric axes C3-C3 and C4-C4.
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    [0064] An alignment slot that extends axially 130 is defined in the outer wall 128.
    [0065] An axially extending guide slot 132 is defined for inner wall 129. Opposite axially extending support ribs can be located on each side of slot 132. An axially extending deflection slot 134 is also defined in inner wall 129 over and out beyond the guide slot 132.
    [0066] An integral shoulder, 136 is located closest to the rear end 120A. The shoulder 136 projects out of the body 122 in a transverse direction (for example, perpendicular) to the L-L connector axis. A hole 136A extends through the shoulder 136 substantially parallel to the geometric axis L-L. In some embodiments, hole 136 is unthreaded.
    [0067] The locking mechanism includes a locking member 150, a first driving member 170, a second cooperating driving member 176, and a broken ring washer 178. In some embodiments and as shown, the first driving member is a drive screw 170 and the second drive member is a nut 176. Drive screw 170 and nut 176 operate as a retaining mechanism.
    [0068] The retraction mechanism 181 includes a rear coupling portion 164 (at the rear end of the locking member 150), an annular retaining clip mounting slot 179 (at the rear end of the drive screw 170), and a member, retaining ring or clip 184.
    [0069] With reference to Figures 1 and 5, the latch member 150 extends from a rear end 150A to a front end 150B along an LC-LC latch member geometry. Lock member 150 includes a body 152, an integral screw receiving portion 154, an integral guide rail 160, a hook
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    15/39 or integral coupling portion 162, and an integral nut clamp portion 168. Body 152 is located closest to the front end 150B and extends transversely to the LC-LC geometry from an outer end 152A to an inner end 152B .
    [0070] The screw receiving portion 154 is located closest to the outer end 152A of the body 152 and extends backwards substantially parallel to the LC-LC geometry axis. An extension portion 154A extends in front of body 152. A screw hole 156 extends through the screw receiving portion 154. In some embodiments, hole 156 is unthreaded.
    [0071] The guide rail 160 is located in a middle section of the body 152 and extends backwards substantially parallel to the LC-LC geometry axis. Guide rail 160 is an elongated, substantially flat plate. An integral support rib, which extends axially, can be located on the outer face of the guide rail.
    [0072] The coupling portion 162 includes a sleeve slot 166 (Figure 5).
    [0073] A nut clamp portion 162 includes a cavity 168B and a side opening 168A that communicates with cavity 168B. Anti-rotation features in the form of planes 168C (Figure 5) are located inside cavity 168B.
    [0074] Screw 170 (Figure 1) has an externally threaded rod, bar or cylindrical shaft 172 and an integral drive coupling feature 174 at the rear end of shaft 172. The drive coupling feature 174 can be provided in the form of a geometric head (for example, a faceted hexagonal head) or a geometric socket. The drive head 174 can be a hexagonal head as illustrated, for example.
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    [0075] The annular retaining clip assembly slot 179 is defined on the outer surface of the screw 170 closest to the head 174. Retaining clip 184 is seated within slot 179. Retaining clip 184 is hereby positioned on the rear side of the boss 136, opposite the screw head 174. The retaining clip 184 allows the screw 170 to rotate around the geometric axis in the length direction of the screw in and in relation to the boss 136, but limits the relative forward axial displacement of the screw 170 in with respect to boss 136. In this mode, retainer clip 184 prevents the screw from moving forward out of boss 136 beyond a relatively short prescribed distance.
    [0076] Nut 176 includes an internally threaded hole 176A and external geometric coupling faces or facets 176B. For example, nut 176 may be a hexagonal nut, as illustrated.
    [0077] The glove member 110 can be formed from any suitable electrically conductive material. According to some embodiments, the glove member 110 is formed of metal. According to some embodiments, the glove member 110 is formed of aluminum or steel. The glove member 110 can be formed using any suitable technique. According to some embodiments, the glove member 110 is monolithic and unitarily formed. According to some embodiments, the glove member 110 is extruded and cut. Alternatively or in addition, a glove member 110 can be stamped (e.g. die cut), cast and / or machined.
    [0078] The wedge member 120 can be formed from any suitable material. According to some embodiments, the wedge member 120 is formed of metal. According to some embodiments, the wedge member 120 is formed of aluminum or copper alloy. The wedge member 120 can be formed using any suitable technique. According to some modalities, the wedge member
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    120 is cast and / or machined.
    [0079] The locking member 150 can be formed from any suitable material. According to some embodiments, the lock member 150 is formed of metal. According to some embodiments, the locking member 150 is formed of aluminum or copper alloy. Retaining member 150 can be formed using any suitable technique. According to some categories, lock member 150 is cast and / or machined.
    [0080] The glove member 110, the wedge member 120, and the latch member 150 can be separately manufactured from each other or otherwise formed into discrete connector components and are assembled together, as explained below. Although exemplary forms of these components have been illustrated here, it is recognized that they can alternatively be formed in other embodiments, as desired.
    [0081] Screw 170, nut 176, and retainer clip 184 can be formed of any suitable material. According to some embodiments, screw 170, nut 176, and retainer clip 184 are formed of metal. According to some embodiments, screw 170, nut 176, and retainer clip 184 are formed of aluminum or steel.
    [0082] With reference to Figures 2-6, exemplary methods for assembling and using connector assembly 100 according to the modalities of the present invention will now be described.
    [0083] The glove member 110, the wedge member 120, the latch member 150, the screw 170, the nut 176, the washer 178 and the retaining clip 184 can each be manufactured as discrete parts, individual from the others, and then assembled together. Each of the assembly steps can be performed in a factory or by an end user or installer.
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    [0084] The wedge member 120, the latch member 150, the screw 170, the nut 176, the washer 178, and the retaining clip 184 are mounted together to form a wedge subset 153 (Figure 2). More specifically, the guide rail 160 is slid into the guide slot 132 of the front end 120B. Nut 176 is inserted through opening 168A and seated within cavity 168B. Axis 172 of screw 170 is inserted through hole 136A and couples with nut 176 Nut 176 is prevented from rotating with screw 170 by planes 168C. Retaining clip 184 is installed inside slot 179 to axially secure or limit screw 170 with respect to wedge member 120. Screw 170 can be adjusted so that the guide rail 160 is captured within the guide slot 132 and the wedge subset 153 will maintain the layout as shown in Figure 2.
    [0085] In some embodiments, the wedge subset 153 is assembled at the factory and provided for the end user or assembled installer. In other embodiments, the wedge subset 153 is assembled by the end user and, in some embodiments, it is assembled on site at the location of the bypass installation by the installer. The wedge subset 153 can assume an open position (as shown in Figure 2), where the wedge member 120 is extended and the front end 120B of the wedge member 120 is spaced a distance D1 (Figure 2) from the front end 150B lock member 150. The wedge subset 153 can alternatively assume a closed position (as shown in Figures 3-6), where the wedge member 120 is recessed and the front end 120B of the wedge member 120 is spaced a distance D2 (Figure 5) of the front end 150B of the locking member 150. The distance D2 is less than the distance D1. [0086] As shown in Figure 2, the C-shaped glove member 110 is placed over conductor 12 so that conductor 12 is received into side channel 116A. Conductor 14 placed inside
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    19/39 of the other side channel 114A.
    [0087] With wedge subset 153 in the open position, wedge subset 153 is laterally inserted into the sleeve member in cavity 115 through slot 117. Wedge member 120 is partially inserted into cavity 115 between conductors 12, 14 so that conductors 12, 14 are received into opposite slots 124A, 126A. The wedge member 120 can be forced into the glove member 110 by hand or using a hammer or the like to temporarily hold the wedge member 120 and the conductors 12, 14 in position.
    [0088] Tool 30 is coupled with screw head 174. Advantageously, head 174 is accessible for coupling with tool 30 on the rear side of wedge assembly 153. Tool 30 is forcibly driven by driver 32 to turn the screw 170 in a direction R with respect to the fixed nut 176. The wedge member 120 and the latch member 150 are hereby linearly displaced and pulled together in opposite converging directions towards the closed position of the wedge subset 153. The wedge member wedge 120 touches the conductors 12,14 on the glove member 110 and the latch member 150 hooks on and receives the front end 110B of the glove member 110 within the slot 166.
    [0089] The driver 32 and the tool 30 are also used to forcibly turn the screw 170 so that the wedge member 120 is additionally forced forward (direction F, Figure 2) in relation to the sleeve member 110 until the member wedge 120 is in the desired final position to form connection 10, as shown in Figures 3-6. The connection 10 can be formed by forming interference adjustments between the wedge member 120, the C-shaped sleeve member 110 and the conductors 12, 14. Furthermore, the wedge member 120 is held in place by the interlock coupling between the portion of
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    20/39 coupling 162 and the sleeve member 110.
    [0090] During installation, the coupling portion 162 locks over the front end 110B of the glove member 110 and maintains proper alignment between the wedge member 120 and the glove member 110. This interlock can also act as a feature safety measures in the early stages of installation.
    [0091] The wedge member 120, or the glove member 110 and / or the conductors 12, 14 can be deformed. The C-shaped glove member 110 can be elastically deformed, so that it applies tension or spring force against the wedge member 120 and the conductors 12, 14. The glove member 110 can be plastically deformed.
    [0092] In some embodiments, the hook portions 114, 116 are deflected outwards (in directions E1 and E2 (Figure 2), respectively) along the transverse geometric axis M-M. Glove member 110 is elastically and plastically deflecting resulting in a spring counter (i.e., energy stored in folded glove member 110) to provide a holding force on the conductors 12, 14. As a result of the holding force, the glove member 110 can generally conform to conductors 12, 14. According to some embodiments, a large application force, in the order of approximately 26 to 31 kN of holding force, is provided, and the holding force ensures a force of adequate electrical contact and electrical connectivity between connector assembly 100 and conductors 12, 14. In addition, the elastic deflection of sleeve member 110 provides some tolerance for deformation or compressibility of conductors 12, 14 over time, such as when the conductors 12, 14 deform due to compressive forces. Actual holding forces can be reduced in such a condition, but not in such a quantity as to compromise the integrity of the electrical connection.
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    [0093] In some embodiments, the elastic deflection of the glove member 110 causes the central body 112 to bend or project towards the wedge member 120, where a portion of the body 112 is received within the deflection slot 134.
    [0094] In some embodiments, the outer surface of the screw receiving portion 154 is lubricated to reduce friction with the wedge member 120 within the alignment slot 130.
    [0095] The tubular screw receiving portion 154, including the extension portion 154A, covers the screw shaft 172 after termination.
    [0096] Once installed, the connector system 101 can be operated as follows to dismantle the connection and connection set 100 according to the methods of the invention. Screw 170 is rotated opposite direction R (i.e., counterclockwise) to force wedge member 120 to move axially backward and away from screw head 174. As the axial position of retainer clip 184 on the screw 170 is fixed and the rear coupling portion 164 prevents a relative axial displacement between the locking member 150 and the sleeve member 110, the screw rotation force moves the wedge member 120 backwards (direction E in Figure 5) by in relation to the glove member 110. In this mode, the glove member 110 and the wedge member 120 are released from each other and the connection. The lock bar 150 can then be removed from the sleeve member 110.
    [0097] Any suitable type or construction of driver 32 can be used to forcibly turn screw 170 in the direction of rotation R. According to some modalities, screw 170 is used using a motorized tool. The powered tool can be an electrically, pneumatically or hydraulically powered tool. According to some modalities, the powered tool is a battery powered tool. According
    Petition 870190138258, of 12/23/2019, p. 61/89
    22/39 with some modalities, tool 30 is rotated using a manual actuator.
    [0098] A corrosion inhibiting compound can be provided (ie applied at the factory) on the conductive contact surfaces of the wedge member 120 and / or the glove member 110. The corrosion inhibitor can prevent or inhibit the formation of corrosion and assist in the abrasion cleaning of the conductors 12, 14. The corrosion inhibitor can inhibit corrosion by limiting the presence of oxygen in the areas of electrical contact. The corrosion inhibitor material can be a flowable, viscous material. The corrosion inhibitor material can be, for example, a base oil with metallic particles suspended therein. In some embodiments, the corrosion inhibitor is a derivative of cod oil with nickel aluminum alloy particles. Suitable inhibitory materials are available from TE Connectivity. According to some embodiments, the corrosion inhibitor layer has a thickness in the range of approximately 0.5 to 0.7 mm (0.02 to 0.03 inch).
    [0099] It will be appreciated that the connector assembly 100 can effectively accommodate conductors 12, 14 in a range of different sizes and configurations as a result of the flexibility of the spring member 110. Different connector assemblies 100 can be sized to accommodate different conductor size ranges, from relatively small diameter wires for low current applications to relatively large diameter wires for high voltage power transmission applications. In some embodiments, the size of the main conductor 14 is 336.4 kcmil or greater and the size of the lead conductor 12 is # 6 AWG or greater.
    [0100] It is recognized that the effective holding force on conductors 12, 14 is dependent on the geometry and dimensions of the members 110, 120 and the size of the conductors used with the set of
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    23/39 connector 100. Thus, with strategic angle selections for the mating surfaces, and the size and placement of the conductors 12, 14, varying degrees of holding force can be realized when the connector set 100 is used as described above.
    [0101] As illustrated, channels 114A, 116A are generally arcuate. However, some or all channels 114A, 116A may have cross-sectional shapes from other configurations.
    [0102] Elongated, protruding ribs can be provided within channels 124A, 126A to reduce friction as wedge member 120 is driven into glove member 110. Ribs typically will not significantly reduce the electrical contact surface with conductors 12, 14. According to some modalities, each rib has a height in the range of approximately 0.2 to 0.3 mm (0.008 to 0.012 inch) and a width in the range of approximately 0.4 to 0.5 mm (0.018 to 0.022 inch).
    [0103] With reference to Figures 9 and 10, a wedge connector system 201 and a wedge connector assembly 200 according to additional modalities are shown here. The connector set 200 corresponds to and can be used in the same way as the connector set 100, except as discussed below. The connector assembly 200 includes a sleeve member 210 and a wedge member 220, which correspond to the sleeve member 110 and a wedge member 120, respectively.
    [0104] Connector assembly 200 also includes a drive / lock mechanism 251 that corresponds to drive / lock mechanism 151 except as follows. In place of nut 176 and nut clamp portion 168, lock member 250 is provided with an internally threaded hole 256 in a screw receiving portion 254. In use, a wedge subset 253 is formed by
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    24/39 by screwing the screw 270 with the threaded hole 256. The wedge subset 253 can then be installed over the sleeve member 210 and the conductors 12, 14. The wedge subset 253 can be contracted by turning the screw head 274 to secure wedge subset 253 over glove member 210 and force wedge member 220 into glove member cavity 215 to mechanically capture conductors 12, 14 between them and electrically connect conductors 12, 14 to the other. The rear end of the screw receiving portion 254 can serve as a stop face to limit wedge member displacement.
    [0105] Connector assembly 200 also includes a retraction mechanism 281 that corresponds to retraction mechanism 181.0 retraction mechanism 281 includes a rear coupling portion 264 (over the rear end of the latch member 250), a mounting slot for annular retaining clip 279 (on the rear end of drive screw 270), and a retaining member, ring or clip 284. Connector assembly 200 can be disassembled and removed in the same manner as described above for connector assembly 100.
    [0106] With reference to Figures 11 and 12, a wedge connector system 301 and a connector set 300 according to additional modalities are shown here. The connector set 300 corresponds to and can be used in the same way as the connector set 100, except as discussed below. The connector assembly 200 includes a sleeve member 310 that corresponds to the sleeve member 110. The connector assembly 300 further includes a drive / lock mechanism 351 that corresponds to the drive / lock mechanism 151 except as discussed below.
    [0107] Connector assembly 300 includes a wedge member 320 which corresponds to wedge member 120 except that the wedge member
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    25/39 wedge 320 is provided with a shoulder 336 at its front end 320B. The shoulder 336 includes a nut slot 368B that has anti-rotation characteristics 368C. Nut 376 is seated within nut slot 368B.
    [0108] Connector assembly 300 further includes a lock member 350 which corresponds to lock member 150 except that lock member 350 is provided with a screw receiving arm 357 and a hole 357A.
    [0109] In use, a wedge subset 353 is formed by inserting screw 370 through hole 357A and screwing screw 370 with nut 376. The wedge subset 353 can then be installed on the sleeve member 310 and the conductors 12, 14. The wedge subset 353 can be contracted by coupling the screw head 374 and turning the screw 370 to secure the wedge subset 353 over the sleeve member 310 and force the wedge member 320 into the member cavity of sleeve 315 to mechanically capture the conductors 12,14 between them and electrically connect the conductors 12, 14 to each other. It will be appreciated that in the case of connector assembly 300, screw head 374 is coupled by tool 30 at the front end of wedge subassembly 353. [0110] Connector assembly 300 also includes a retraction mechanism 381 which corresponds to the retraction mechanism retraction 181.0 retraction mechanism 381 includes a rear coupling portion 364 (on the rear end of the locking member 350), an annular retaining clip mounting slot 379 (on the rear end of the drive screw 370), and a member, retaining ring or clip 384. Connector assembly 300 can be disassembled and removed in the same manner as described above for connector assembly 100.
    [0111] With reference to Figures 13 and 14, a wedge connector system 401 and a wedge connector assembly 400 according to
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    26/39 additional modalities are shown here. Connector set 400 corresponds to and can be used in the same way as connector set 300, except as discussed below. Connector assembly 400 includes a sleeve member 310 that corresponds to sleeve member 110.
    [0112] The connector set 400 also includes a drive / lock mechanism 451 which corresponds to the drive / lock mechanism 351 except as follows. In place of nut 376 and nut holder slot 368B, the wedge member 420 is provided with an internally threaded hole 456. In use, a wedge subset 453 is formed by screwing screw 470 with threaded hole 456. O wedge subset 453 can then be installed on the sleeve member 410 and conductors 12, 14. The wedge subset 453 can be contracted by coupling screw head 474 to turn screw 470 to secure wedge subset 453 over the glove member 410 and force wedge member 420 into glove member cavity 415 to mechanically capture conductors 12, 14 between them and electrically connect conductors 12, 14 to each other.
    [0113] Connector assembly 400 also includes a retraction mechanism 481 that corresponds to retraction mechanism 181.0 retraction mechanism 481 includes a rear coupling portion 464 (on the rear end of the lock member 350), a mounting slot for annular retaining clip 479 (on the rear end of drive screw 470), and a retaining member, ring or clip 484. Connector assembly 400 can be disassembled and removed in the same manner as described above for connector assembly 100.
    [0114] With reference to Figures 15-22, a wedge connector system 501 and a wedge connector assembly 500 according to additional modalities are shown here. The 500 connector set
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    27/39 corresponds to and can be used in the same way as connector set 100, except as discussed below. The connector assembly 500 includes a glove member 510 and a wedge member 520, which corresponds to glove member 110 and wedge member 120, respectively. The connector assembly 500 includes a drive / locking mechanism 551. The sleeve member 510 and the wedge member 520 are movable relative to each other to cooperatively mechanically capture the conductors 12,14 between them and electrically connect the conductors 12, 14 in each other.
    [0115] The wedge member 520 includes a body 522 which has arched, opposite faces or side walls 524, 526, opposite faces or end walls 523, 525, and opposite faces and inner and outer walls 528, 529. O wedge member 520 tapers into a relatively wide rear end 520A to a relatively narrow front end 520B.
    [0116] An alignment slot that extends axially 530 is defined in the inner wall 529.
    [0117] An integral shoulder 536 is located closest to the rear end 520A. The shoulder 536 projects out of the body 522 in a transverse direction (for example, perpendicular) to the L-L connector axis and towards the sleeve member 510. A hole 536A extends through the shoulder 536 substantially parallel to the L-L geometric axis. In some embodiments, hole 536A is unthreaded. [0118] Lock mechanism 551 includes a lock member 550, a first drive member 570, a second cooperating drive member 576, a washer 578, and a retainer clip 584. In some embodiments and as shown, the first member The drive screw is a drive screw 570 and the second drive member is a nut 576. Drive screw 570 and nut 576 operate as a retaining mechanism.
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    [0119] Lock member 550 extends from a rear end 550A to a front end 550B along a lock axis LC-LC. Lock member 550 includes a longitudinally extending body 552, a rear coupling or integral hook portion 562, and an integral nut clip portion 568.
    [0120] The hook portion 562 is located at the rear end 550A. The hook portion 562 defines a slot 562A.
    [0121] The nut clamp portion 568 is a shoulder located at the front end 550B and projects laterally away from the connecting wall 512 of the glove member 510. The nut clamp portion 568 includes a hole 568A. Anti-rotation features in the form of 568C planes are located inside hole 568A and define a hexagonal passage.
    [0122] Screw 570 has an externally threaded rod, bar, or cylindrical shaft 572 and an integral driver coupling feature 574 on the rear end of shaft 572. Driver coupling feature 574 can be provided in the form of a head geometric (for example, a faceted hexagonal head) or a geometric socket. The drive head 574 can be a hexagonal head as illustrated, for example.
    [0123] An annular retaining ring mounting slot 579 is defined on the outer surface of screw 570 closest to head 574. Retaining clip 584 is seated inside slot 579. Retaining clip 584 is hereby positioned on the front side of the boss 536, opposite to screw head 574. Retaining clip 584 allows screw 570 to rotate around the geometric axis in the length of the screw relative to boss 536, but limits a partial backward displacement of screw 570 relative to shoulder 536. In this mode, retainer clip 584 prevents the screw from moving
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    29/39 backwards out of shoulder 536 beyond a relatively short prescribed distance. Other retaining devices (for example, a broken pin) or features can be used in addition to or in place of retainer clip 584 to axially restrict screw 570 with respect to wedge member 520 while allowing screw 570 to rotate with respect to member wedge 520.
    [0124] Nut 576 is an extended or extended capped coupling nut. Nut 576 has a nut body 576C and an internally threaded hole 576A. The outer surface of the 576C nut body has geometric facets or coupling faces 576B and is hexagonal in cross section. Nut 576 also has a stop feature 576D on the capped end of body 576C which has a larger outside diameter than that of nut body 576C. Nut 576 is seated within hole 568A of lock member 550 so that the faceted outer surface of nut 576 coincides with the complementary faceted inner surface of hole 568A to prevent or limit the rotation of nut 576 relative to hole 568A. Nut body 576C can fit snugly into hole 568A, but it is allowed to slide axially through hole 568A. The stop feature 576D is sized to prevent it from passing through hole 568A.
    [0125] Glove member 510, wedge member 520, latch member 550, screw 570, and nut 576 can be formed from materials and using the techniques as described above for glove member 110, wedge member 120, member locknut 150, screw 170, and nut 176.
    [0126] Exemplary methods for assembling and using connector assembly 500 according to the modalities of the present invention will now be described.
    [0127] In order to mount the wedge connector assembly 500, the
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    30/39 lock member 550 is mounted on glove member 510 as shown in Figure 20 so that the rear edge of glove member 510 is received and captured within slot 562A. The latch member body 552 extends along the outside of the glove member connection portion 512. The shoulder 568 is positioned at the front end 510B of the glove member 510.
    [0128] Nut 576 is inserted through hole 568A. Washer 578 is mounted on shaft 572 of screw 570 and shaft 572 is then inserted through hole 536A. Retaining clip 584 is then mounted on shaft 572 within slot 579. Screw 570 is hereby secured within wedge member 520 to form a wedge subset 553 which is held together by retaining clip 584 and the screw head 574. [0129] In some embodiments, the 553 wedge subset is assembled at the factory and provided for the end user or assembled installer. In other embodiments, the 553 wedge subset is assembled by the end user and, in some embodiments, it is assembled on site at the location of the bypass installation by the installer.
    [0130] As shown in Figure 20, the C-shaped glove member 510 is placed over conductor 12 so that conductor 12 is received into side channel 516A. Conductor 14 is placed within the other side channel 514A.
    [0131] The wedge subset 553 partially inserted into the cavity between the conductors 12,14 so that the conductors 12,14 are received into the opposite grooves 524A, 526A of the wedge member 520. The wedge member 520 can be forced into inside glove member 510 by hand or using a hammer or the like to temporarily hold wedge member 520 and conductors 12, 14 in position. This can cause nut 576 to slide forward into the shoulder 568 and project forward beyond the shoulder 568.
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    31/39
    When matched to the C-shaped glove member 510, the latch member 550 has clearances between the latch member body 552 and the rear wall of the C-shaped glove member 510 and between features 562, 568 and the ends of the C-shaped glove member 510 to allow relative movement between the latch member 550 and the C-shaped glove member 510 when installing the conductors 12, 14. This allows the wedge subset 553 to be temporarily stuck within the glove member 510 (for example, by hand or using a hammer) as described.
    [0132] The front end of screw 570 is then threadedly coupled with nut 576. Nut 576 is prevented from rotating with screw 570 by planes 568C, 576B. As screw 570 is rotated (for example, using a driver 32 and tool 30 as shown in Figure 2), nut 576 is further pulled into hole 568A until stop feature 568D meets shoulder 568. Screw 570 is rotated (for example, using driver 32 and tool 30) so that nut 576 is axially anchored and screw 570 forcibly pulls wedge member 520 into glove member 510 until wedge member 520 is in a desired final position to form the connection as shown in Figures 21 and 22. The shoulder 568 rotationally fixes or locks the nut 576 to torque the screw 570 during assembly. The shoulder 536 can act as a rigid stop to limit the insertion of the wedge member 520. The connection 10 can be formed by forming interference adjustments between the wedge member 520, the C-shaped sleeve member 510 and the conductors 12, 14. Furthermore, the wedge member 520 is secured in place by the lock member 550.
    [0133] As discussed above with respect to the wedge connector system 101, the wedge member 520, the sleeve member 510 and / or the conductors 12, 14 can be deformed. The shaped glove member
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    32/39 of C 510 can be elastically deformed so that it applies a tension or spring force against the wedge member 520 and the conductors 12, 14. The glove member 510 can be plastically deformed.
    [0134] Connector system 501 can be removed and disassembled by turning screw 570 counterclockwise to force nut 576 to move axially forward and away from screw head 574. Retaining clip 584 and front shoulder 568 cooperate to prevent or limit the relative axial displacement between screw 570 and locking member 550 and sleeve member 510. As a result, the rotational force of screw displaces nut 576 forward (along the LC-LC axis) relative to the sleeve member 510. The screw 570 is rotated in this way until the stop feature 576D is spaced a short distance (for example, approximately 12.7 mm (0.5 inches) from the shoulder 568 and the screw threads 570 remain threadedly coupled with the threads of nut 576. The front end of nut 576 is then tapped (for example, by a hammer) to drive back screw 570. As screw 570 is axially restricted by retainer clip 58 4, the driving force is hereby applied to the wedge member 520 to drive the wedge member 520 backwards relative to the glove member 510. In this mode, the glove member 510 and the wedge member 520 are released one the other and the connection.
    [0135] With reference to Figures 23-29, a wedge connector system 601 and a wedge connector assembly 600 according to additional modalities are shown here. The connector set 600 corresponds to and can be used in the same way as the connector set 500, except as discussed below. Connector assembly 600 includes a sleeve member 610 and a wedge member 620, which run
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    33/39 place the glove member 510 and the wedge member 520, respectively. The connector assembly 600 includes a drive / lock mechanism 651. The sleeve member 610 and the wedge member 620 are movable relative to each other to cooperatively mechanically capture the conductors 12,14 between them and electrically connect the conductors 12, 14 in each other.
    [0136] The wedge member 620 includes a body 622 which has arched, opposite faces or side walls 624, 626, opposite faces or end walls 623, 625, and opposite faces and inner and outer walls 628, 629. O wedge member 620 tapers into a relatively wide rear end 620A to a relatively narrow front end 620B.
    [0137] An alignment slot that extends axially 630 is defined in the inner wall 629.
    [0138] An integral shoulder 636 is located closest to the front end 620B. The shoulder 636 projects out of the body 622 in a transverse direction (for example, perpendicular) to the geometric axis of connector L-L and towards the sleeve member 610. A hole 636A extends through the shoulder 636 substantially parallel to the geometric axis L-L.
    [0139] Locking mechanism 651 includes a locking member 650, a first driving member 670, a second cooperating driving member 676, and a washer 678. In some embodiments and as shown, the first driving member is a screw drive 670. In some embodiments and as shown, the second drive member is an internal screw thread 676 formed into hole 636A. In other embodiments, the screw thread 676 can be formed on a nut rotationally and axially secured within the hole 636. The drive screw 670 and the threaded hole 636 operate as a retention mechanism.
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    34/39
    [0140] Lock member 650 extends from a rear end 650A to a front end 650B along an LC-LC lock member geometry. Lock member 650 includes a longitudinally extending body 652, a rear coupling or integral hook portion 662, an integral front hook portion 663, and an integral front support portion 668.
    [0141] The rear hook portion 662 is located at the rear end 650A. The hook portion 662 defines a slot 662A.
    [0142] The integral front support portion 668 is a shoulder located at the front end 650B and projects laterally away from the connecting wall 612 of the glove member 610. The front support portion 668 includes a hole 668A. The internal diameter of hole 668A is dimensioned to allow the drive screw 670 to rotate freely. The front hook portion 663 projects behind the support portion 668.
    [0143] Bolt 670 has a rod, rod, or cylindrical shaft extremely threaded 672 and an integral drive coupling feature 674 on the front end of shaft 672. The drive coupling feature 674 can be provided in the form of a head geometric (for example, a faceted hexagonal head) or a geometric socket. The drive head 674 can be a hexagonal head as illustrated, for example.
    [0144] Glove member 610, wedge member 620, latch member 650, and screw 670 can be formed from materials and using the techniques as described above for glove member 110, wedge member 120, latch member 150 , screw 170, and nut 176.
    [0145] Exemplary methods for assembling and using connector assembly 600 according to the modalities of the present invention will now be described.
    [0146] In order to mount the wedge connector assembly 600, the
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    35/39 latch member 650 is mounted on glove member 610 as shown in Figure 27 so that the rear edge of glove member 610 is received and captured within slot 662A and the front edge of glove member 610 is captured by the front hook portion 663. The latch member body 652 extends along the outside of the glove member connection portion 612. The support portion 668 is positioned at the front end 610B of the glove member 610.
    [0147] Washer 678 is mounted on shaft 672 of screw 670 and shaft 672 is then inserted through hole 668A. The screw 670 is threaded into the threaded hole 636A of the wedge member 620. The screw 670 is hereby secured within the wedge member 620 and the latch member 650 to form a wedge subset 653.
    [0148] In some embodiments, the 653 wedge subset is assembled at the factory and provided for the end user or assembled installer. In other embodiments, the wedge subset 653 is assembled by the end user and, in some embodiments, it is assembled on site at the location of the bypass installation by the installer.
    [0149] As shown in Figure 27, the C-shaped glove member 610 is placed over the conductor 12 so that a conductor 12 is received within the side channel 616A. Conductor 14 is placed within the other side channel 614A.
    [0150] The wedge subset 653 is inserted into the cavity between the conductors 12, 14 so that the conductors 12, 14 are received into the opposite grooves 624A, 626A of the wedge member 620. The wedge member 620 can be forced into inside glove member 610 by hand or using a hammer or the like to temporarily hold wedge member 620 and conductors 12, 14 in position.
    [0151] The screw 670 is then further turned (for example, using a driver 32 and tool 30 as shown in Figure 2), so that the screw head 674 loads against the portion of
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    36/39 support 668 and screw 670 forcibly pulls the wedge member 620 into the glove member 610 until the wedge member 620 is in a desired final position to form the connection as shown in Figures 28 and 29. The connection 10 can be formed by forming interference adjustments between the wedge member 620, the C-shaped sleeve member 610 and the conductors 12,14. Furthermore, the wedge member 620 is held in place by the lock member 650.
    [0152] As discussed above with respect to wedge connector system 101, wedge member 620, sleeve member 610 and / or conductors 12, 14 can be deformed. The C-shaped glove member 610 can be elastically deformed so that it applies spring tension or force against the wedge member 620 and the conductors 12, 14. The glove member 610 can be plastically deformed.
    [0153] The connector system 601 can be removed and disassembled by turning the screw 670 counterclockwise. This forces screw 670 to recoil or move axially forward (along the LC-LC axis) with respect to sleeve member 610 and away from wedge 610 and support portion 668. Screw 670 is rotated in this mode until the screw head 674 is spaced a short distance (for example, approximately 12.7 mm (0.5 inches) from the support portion 668. The screw head 674 is then tapped (for example, by a hammer) to drive the screw 670. As screw 670 is axially restricted with respect to wedge member 610 by the matching threads of screw 670 and hole 636A, the driving force is hereby applied to the wedge member 620 to drive the wedge member 620 backwards with respect to sleeve member 610. In this mode, sleeve member 610 and wedge member 620 are released from each other and from the connection.
    [0154] Referring to Figures 30-32, a connector system for
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    37/39 wedge 701 and a wedge connector assembly 700 according to additional modalities are shown here. The connector set 700 corresponds to and can be used in the same way as the connector set 500, except as discussed below. Connector assembly 700 includes a glove member 710 and a wedge member 720, which correspond to glove member 510 and wedge member 520, respectively. The connector assembly 700 includes a drive / locking mechanism 751. The sleeve member 710 and the wedge member 720 are movable relative to each other to cooperatively mechanically capture the conductors 12,14 between them and electrically connect the conductors 12, 14 in each other.
    [0155] The locking mechanism 751 includes a locking member 750, a first driving member 770, a second cooperating driving member 776, a washer 778, and a retaining clip 784. In some embodiments and as shown, the first member The drive screw is a drive screw 770 and the second drive member is a nut 776. Drive screw 770 and nut 776 operate as a retaining mechanism.
    [0156] Lock member 750 extends from a rear end 750A to a front end 750B along an axis of the LC-LC lock member. Lock member 750 includes a longitudinally extending body 752, an integral rear coupling or stop portion 762, an integral front coupling or hook portion 767, and an integral nut fastener portion 768. [0157] The stop portion 762 is located at the rear end 750A. The hook portion 767 is located at the front end 750A. The hook portion 767 defines a slot 767A. The stop portion 762 and the hook portion 767 project laterally towards the connecting wall 712 of the glove member 710 when the connector is mounted.
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    [0158] The nut holder portion 768 is a shoulder located at the front end 750B and projects laterally away from the connecting wall 712 of the sleeve member 710 when the connector is mounted. The nut holder portion 768 includes a hole 768A. Anti-rotation features in the form of planes are located inside hole 768A and define a hexagonal passage.
    [0159] Retaining clip 784 is seated within an annular retaining ring mounting slot 779 defined on the outer surface of screw 770 closest to head 774. Retaining clip 784 is hereby positioned on the front side of shoulder 736, opposite to the screw head 774. The retaining clip 784 allows the screw 770 to rotate around the geometric axis in the length of the screw in relation to the shoulder 736, but limits a partial rearward relative displacement of the screw 770 in relation to the shoulder 736. In this mode, the retaining clip 784 prevents the screw from moving backward out of the shoulder 736 beyond a relatively short prescribed distance. Other retaining devices (for example, a broken pin) or features can be used in addition to or in place of the retaining clip 784 to axially restrict the screw 770 with respect to the wedge member 720 while allowing the screw 770 to rotate with respect to the wedge 720.
    [0160] Nut 776 is constructed in the same way as nut 576, except that the front end of the hole ends in an opening 776E so that screw 770 can fully extend through and beyond the front end of nut 776. Nut 776 is seated inside hole 768A and works in the same way as described for nut 576 and hole 568A.
    [0161] Glove member 710, wedge member 720, lock member 750, screw 770, and nut 776 can be formed of materials and using the techniques as described above for the glove member
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    110, wedge member 120, lock member 150, screw 170, and nut 176.
    [0162] Connector set 700 can be used in the same way as connector set 500, except as follows. The longitudinally extending body 752 is interposed laterally between the wedge member 720 and the connecting wall 712 of the glove member 710. The stop portion 762 is located adjacent and can touch the rear end 710A of the glove member 710. The portion hook 767 is located adjacent and receives the front end 710B of the glove member 710 into the slot 767A when the connector is mounted. The construction of the connector set 700 can allow or facilitate the use of other accessories such as hot-sticks.
    [0163] Connector system 701 can be removed and disassembled by turning screw 770 counterclockwise to force nut 776 to move axially forward and away from screw head 774, and then tapping (for example, with a hammer) ) the front end of nut 576 to drive screw 570 backwards, as described above for connector system 501.
    [0164] The above is illustrative of the present invention and should not be considered as its limitation. Although some exemplary embodiments of this invention have been described, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that many modifications are possible in the exemplary embodiments without materially departing from the new teachings and advantages of this invention. Consequently, all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of this invention. Therefore, it should be understood that the above is illustrative of the present invention and should not be considered as limited to the specific modalities described, and that modifications in the described modalities, as well as in other modalities, are intended to be included within the scope of the Invention.
    权利要求:
    Claims (21)
    [1]
    1. Wedge connector system to connect an elongated first and second electrical conductor, the wedge connector set characterized by the fact that it comprises:
    a C-shaped glove member defining a glove cavity and opposing first and second glove channels on each side of the glove cavity;
    a wedge member that includes a wedge body that has an opposite first and second wedge side walls; and a locking mechanism that includes:
    a lock member that includes a sleeve coupling portion; and a retention mechanism coupled to the wedge member;
    on what:
    the glove member and the wedge member are configured to capture the first and second conductors so that the first conductor is received within the first glove channel between the glove member and the first wedge side wall and the second conductor is received within the second glove channel between the glove member and the second wedge side wall; and the locking mechanism is mountable on the glove member and the wedge member so that the glove coupling portion interacts with the glove member and the retention mechanism can be operated to force the wedge member into the cavity glove to apply restraint loads on the first and second conductors.
    [2]
    2. Wedge connector system according to claim 1, characterized by the fact that:
    the glove member has opposite front and rear ends;
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    2/8 the wedge member has opposite front and rear ends;
    the first and second glove channels taper inwardly in a direction from the rear end of the glove member to the front end of the glove member; and the first and second wedge side walls taper inwardly in a direction from the rear end of the wedge member to the front end of the wedge member.
    [3]
    A wedge connector system according to claim 1, characterized in that the wedge member includes an opposing first and second wedge channels defined in the first and second wedge side walls, respectively.
    [4]
    4. Wedge connector system according to claim 1, characterized in that the glove member is a resilient spring member that elastically deflects when the wedge member is forced into the glove cavity to apply the loads of retention on the first and second conductors.
    [5]
    A wedge connector system according to claim 4, characterized in that the wedge member includes an integral deflection slit defined therein and positioned to receive a deflected portion of the glove member when the resilient spring member is elastically deflected by the wedge member.
    [6]
    6. Wedge connector system according to claim 1, characterized in that the coupling portion includes a glove receiver slot configured to secure a front end of the glove member when the locking mechanism is mounted on the glove member.
    [7]
    7. Wedge connector system according to claim 1, characterized by the fact that:
    the wedge member includes a guide slot;
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    3/8 the locking member includes a guide rail received slidable within the guide slot; and the guide slot and guide rail cooperate to maintain alignment between the glove member and the wedge member as the wedge member is forced into the glove cavity by the retention mechanism.
    [8]
    8. Wedge connector system according to claim 7, characterized by the fact that:
    the glove member includes a connection portion between the first and second glove channels; and the guide rail is disposed between the connecting portion and the wedge member when the locking mechanism is mounted on the glove member.
    [9]
    9. Wedge connector system according to claim 8, characterized in that the retention mechanism includes a threaded drive member located on one side of the wedge member opposite the guide rail.
    [10]
    10. Wedge connector system according to claim 1, characterized by the fact that:
    the glove member includes a connection portion between the first and second glove channels; and the locking member includes a body that extends longitudinally arranged between the connecting portion and the wedge member when the locking mechanism is mounted on the glove member.
    [11]
    11. Wedge connector system according to claim 1, characterized in that the retention mechanism includes a screw having a head and a threaded shaft extending from the head.
    Petition 870190138258, of 12/23/2019, p. 82/89
    4/8
    [12]
    12. Wedge connector system according to claim 11, characterized by the fact that:
    the wedge member has opposite front and rear ends;
    the front end leads to the rear end as the wedge member is advanced into the glove cavity by the retention mechanism; and the screw head is accessible from the rear end of the wedge member to be coupled by a tool for turning the screw and thereby forcing the wedge member into the glove cavity.
    [13]
    13. Wedge connector system according to claim 12, characterized by the fact that:
    the retention mechanism also includes:
    an integral shoulder formed on the wedge member; and a nut attached to the locking member and threadedly coupled to the screw axis;
    the screw and nut cooperate to linearly move the locking member responsive to the rotation of the screw; and the integral shoulder is configured to transfer a driving force from the screw to the wedge member to force the wedge member into the sleeve cavity to apply a holding load on the first and second conductors.
    [14]
    14. Wedge connector system according to claim 13, characterized by the fact that:
    the lock member includes a portion of integral nut fastener that has a nut cavity defined therein; and the nut is captured inside the nut cavity.
    [15]
    15. Wedge connector system according to claim 14, characterized by the fact that:
    Petition 870190138258, of 12/23/2019, p. 83/89
    5/8 the lock member includes a tubular screw receiving portion, integral which extends in front of the nut fastener portion; and the threaded shaft of the screw advances into the screw receiving portion as the screw is rotated to force the wedge member into the sleeve cavity.
    [16]
    16. Wedge connector system according to claim 12, characterized by the fact that:
    the retention mechanism also includes:
    an integral shoulder formed on the wedge member; and an integral threaded hole in the lock member;
    the threaded shaft couples the threaded hole;
    the screw and the threaded hole cooperate to linearly displace the locking member responsive to the rotation of the screw; and the integral shoulder is configured to transfer a driving force from the screw to the wedge member to force the wedge member into the sleeve cavity to apply a holding load on the first and second conductors.
    [17]
    17. Wedge connector system according to claim 11, characterized by the fact that:
    the wedge member has opposite front and rear ends;
    the front end leads to the rear end as the wedge member is advanced into the glove cavity by the retention mechanism; and the screw head is accessible from the front end of the wedge member to be coupled by a tool for turning the screw and thereby forcing the wedge member into the glove cavity.
    Petition 870190138258, of 12/23/2019, p. 84/89
    6/8
    [18]
    18. Wedge connector system according to claim 17, characterized by the fact that:
    the retention mechanism also includes:
    an integral shoulder formed over the lock member; and a nut attached to the wedge member and threadedly coupled to the screw axis;
    the screw and nut cooperate to linearly displace the locking member responsive to the rotation of the screw; and the integral shoulder is configured to transfer a driving force from the screw to the wedge member to force the wedge member into the sleeve cavity to apply a holding load on the first and second conductors.
    [19]
    19. Wedge connector system according to claim 17, characterized by the fact that:
    the retention mechanism also includes:
    an integral shoulder formed over the lock member; and an integral threaded hole in the wedge member;
    the threaded shaft couples the threaded hole;
    the screw and the threaded hole cooperate to linearly displace the locking member responsive to the rotation of the screw; and the integral shoulder is configured to transfer a driving force from the screw to the wedge member to force the wedge member into the sleeve cavity to apply a holding load on the first and second conductors.
    [20]
    20. Method for connecting elongated first and second electrical conductors, the method characterized by the fact that it comprises:
    provide a wedge connector set that includes:
    a C-shaped glove member defining a glove cavity and opposing first and second glove channels on each side of the glove cavity;
    Petition 870190138258, of 12/23/2019, p. 85/89
    7/8 a wedge member that includes a wedge body having an opposite first and second wedge side walls; and a locking mechanism that includes:
    a lock member that includes a sleeve coupling portion; and a retention mechanism coupled to the wedge member;
    using the glove member and the wedge member, capture the first and second conductors so that the first conductor is received within the first glove channel between the glove member and the first wedge side wall and the second conductor is received within the second glove channel between the glove member and the second wedge side wall;
    mounting the locking mechanism on the glove member and the wedge member so that the glove coupling portion interacts with the glove member; and subsequently operating the retention mechanism to force the wedge member into the glove cavity to apply retention loads on the first and second conductors.
    [21]
    21. Electrical connection characterized by the fact that it comprises:
    a wedge connector set that includes:
    a C-shaped glove member defining a glove cavity and opposing first and second glove channels on each side of the glove cavity;
    a wedge member that includes a wedge body that has an opposite first and second wedge side walls; and a locking mechanism that includes:
    a lock member that includes a sleeve coupling portion; and a retention mechanism coupled to the wedge member;
    Petition 870190138258, of 12/23/2019, p. 86/89
    8/8 and
    first and second elongated electrical conductors captured between the glove member and the wedge member so that the first conductor is received within the first glove channel between the glove member and the first wedge side wall and the second conductor is received within the second glove channel between the glove member and the second wedge side wall;
    wherein the locking mechanism is mounted on the glove member and the wedge member so that the glove coupling portion interacts with the glove member; and wherein the retention mechanism secures the wedge member within the sleeve cavity to apply retention loads to the first and second conductors.
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    同族专利:
    公开号 | 公开日
    AU2018266556B2|2021-05-06|
    TW201907624A|2019-02-16|
    PH12019502520A1|2020-07-20|
    EP3622584A1|2020-03-18|
    WO2018208540A1|2018-11-15|
    CN111095677A|2020-05-01|
    CA3063120A1|2018-11-15|
    US10594054B2|2020-03-17|
    US20180331435A1|2018-11-15|
    AU2018266556A1|2019-12-19|
    AR111778A1|2019-08-21|
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    法律状态:
    2021-10-19| B350| Update of information on the portal [chapter 15.35 patent gazette]|
    优先权:
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    US201762503695P| true| 2017-05-09|2017-05-09|
    US62/503,695|2017-05-09|
    US15/961,422|US10594054B2|2017-05-09|2018-04-24|Wedge connector assemblies and methods and connections including same|
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    PCT/US2018/030439|WO2018208540A1|2017-05-09|2018-05-01|Wedge connector assembly and method thereof|
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