AU2013222000B1 - Cable connection system - Google Patents

Abstract

CABLE CONNECTION SYSTEM A cable connection system (1000) comprises a first cable terminal (100), a second cable terminal (200), an insulating member (300) and a link disconnect device (500). The first cable terminal (100) has a first terminal body (110) and a first link member (130) removeably fastened to the first terminal body (110). The first link member (130) has a first post (132) extending away from the first terminal body (110). The second cable terminal (200) has a second terminal body (210) and a second link member (230) removeably fastened to the second terminal body (210). The second link member (230) has a second post (232) extending away from the second terminal body (210). The insulating member (300) is removeably fastened to, and separates, the first and second terminal bodies (110, 210). The link disconnect device (500) has a pair of opposing link elements (510, 511) defining a gap (512) therebetween in which the first and second posts (132, 232) are received. The link disconnect device (500) is operable between a connect state in which the link elements (510, 511) engage the first and second posts (132, 232), thereby electrically connecting the first and second cable terminals (100, 200), and a disconnect state in which the link elements (510, 511) are spaced from the first and second posts (132, 232), thereby electrically isolating the first and second cable terminals (100, 200).

Description

1 CABLE CONNECTION SYSTEM Field [0001] The present invention relates to the field of electrical power distribution, and in particular relates to a cable connection system incorporating an electrical link disconnect device. Background [0002] Underground mains power cables, utilised for residential and commercial power distribution, are buried within the ground and have their ends extending up through the ground surface where they are terminated in distribution units, from where service cables that distribute power to individual residential or commercial properties are joined. There is at times a need to disconnect sections of the electrical distribution system whilst the system is under electrical load. For example, it may be necessary to disconnect a section of the service side of the system servicing a group of properties to perform some form of maintenance or to install further service cables to that group of properties. Alternatively, it may be necessary to isolate one transformer providing mains electrical power supply to a section of the system, whilst allowing another nearby transformer to provide power to that section. [0003] Two-way connections systems incorporating an arrangement for connecting and disconnecting two mains cables, from two opposing circuits, are regularly referred to as a two way link pillar, at times referred to as an "open point" pillar as more often than not the disconnect mechanism between the two mains cables is removed as the two-way link pillar forms the breaking point of the two opposing circuits. [0004] To date, most power authorities tend to rely on fuse type arrangements for providing disconnect links between circuits. These arrangements are, however, generally clumsy, large and expensive requiring large pillars to house the arrangements. Customer service cables, which are supplied power from the mains cables via the link arrangements, typically need to be mounted in a separate pillar. Other solutions in use have simple uninsulated mechanical link devices attached to busbars with crimped lugs secured to the mains cables. Such arrangements are, however, typically difficult to install, are relatively large, and possess an electric shock hazard by virtue of the uninsulated nature of the arrangements.

2 [0005] Most currently available systems are only suitable for use in establishing two-way connection systems, yet there is a need for flexibility to provide for three-way connection systems, allowing the mains cable of one circuit (typically a neutral side), to be selectively connected or disconnected to the mains cables of two further circuits. Such three-way connections could thus be used as a directional link. Object of the Invention [0006] It is the object of the present invention to overcome at least one of the above disadvantages, or at least to provide a suitable alternative to present cable connection systems. Summary of Invention [0007] In a first aspect, the present invention provides a cable connection system comprising: a) a first electrical cable terminal having: (i) a conductive first terminal body adapted to receive, and be secured to, a first mains cable core strand; and (ii) a conductive first link member removeably fastened to said first terminal body, said first link member having a first post extending away from said first terminal body, said first post having a pair of opposing first post engagement surfaces; b) a second electrical cable terminal having: (i) a conductive second terminal body adapted to receive, and be secured to, a second mains cable core strand; and (ii) a conductive second link member removeably fastened to said second terminal body, said second link member having a second post extending away from said second terminal body, said second post having a pair of opposing second post engagement surfaces, said second post being at least substantially aligned with said first post such that one of said first post engagement surfaces is at least substantially coplanar with one of said second post engagement surfaces and the other of said first post engagement surfaces is at least substantially coplanar with the other of said second post engagement surfaces; c) a non-conductive insulating member removeably fastened to, and separating, said first and second terminal bodies; and 3 d) a link disconnect device having a pair of opposing conductive link elements defining a gap therebetween in which said first and second posts are received, said link disconnect device being operable between a connect state in which said link elements engage said first and second post engagement surfaces, thereby electrically connecting said first and second cable terminals, and a disconnect state in which said link elements are spaced from said first and second post engagement surfaces, thereby electrically isolating said first and second cable terminals. [0008] In a preferred form: said first terminal body defines a longitudinally extending first tunnel for receipt of the first mains core strand, at least one mains cable securing fastener being threadingly received in a threaded aperture extending through a wall of said first terminal body into said first tunnel for securing the first mains cable core strand within said first tunnel; and said second terminal body defines a longitudinally extending second tunnel for receipt of the second mains cable core strand, at least one mains cable securing fastener being threadingly received in a threaded aperture extending through a wall of said second terminal body into said second tunnel for securing the second mains cable core strand within said second tunnel. [0009] In a preferred form said first terminal body is provided with at least one longitudinally extending service cable aperture, for receipt of a service cable and at least one service cable securing fastener received in a threaded aperture extending through a wall of said first terminal body into said service cable aperture for securing the service cable within said service cable aperture. [0010] In a preferred form said second terminal body is provided with at least one longitudinally extending service cable aperture, for receipt of a service cable and at least one service cable securing fastener received in a threaded aperture extending through a wall of said second terminal body into said service cable aperture for securing the service cable within said service cable aperture. [0011] In a preferred form, said system further comprises a cover assembly mounted over said first electrical cable terminal, said second electrical cable terminal, said insulating member and said link disconnect device. Preferably, said cover assembly is provided with a lid for accessing said link disconnect device. Preferably, said lid is spring biased to a closed position.

4 [0012] In a second aspect, the present invention provides a cable connection system comprising: a) a first electrical cable terminal having: (i) a conductive first terminal body adapted to receive, and be secured to, a first mains cable core strand; and (ii) a first post extending away from said first terminal body, said first post having a pair of opposing first post engagement surfaces; b) a second electrical cable terminal having: (i) a conductive second terminal body adapted to receive, and be secured to, a second mains cable core strand, and (ii) a second post extending away from said second terminal body, said second post having a pair of opposing second post engagement surfaces, said second post being offset from said first post; c) a third electrical cable terminal having: (i) a conductive third terminal body adapted to receive, and be secured to, a third mains cable core strand; (ii) a third post extending away from said third terminal body, said third post having a pair of opposing third post engagement surfaces, said third post being at least substantially aligned with said first post such that one of said first post engagement surfaces is at least substantially coplanar with one of said third post engagement surfaces and the other of said first post engagement surfaces is at least substantially coplanar with the other of said third post engagement surfaces; and (iii) a fourth post extending away from said third terminal body, said fourth post having a pair of opposing fourth post engagement surfaces, said fourth post being offset from said third post and at least substantially aligned with said second post such that one of said second post engagement surfaces is at least substantially coplanar with one of said fourth post engagement surfaces and the other of said second post engagement surfaces is at least substantially coplanar with the other of said fourth post engagement surfaces; d) a non-conductive insulating member removeably fastened to, and separating, said first, second and third terminal bodies; 5 e) a first link disconnect device having a pair of opposing conductive first link elements defining a gap therebetween in which said first and third posts are received, said first link disconnect device being operable between a connect state in which said first link elements engage said first and third post engagement surfaces, thereby electrically connecting said first and third cable terminals, and a disconnect state in which said first link elements are spaced from said first and third engagement surfaces, thereby electrically isolating said first and third cable terminals; and f) a second link disconnect device having a pair of opposing conductive second link elements defining a gap therebetween in which said second and fourth posts are received, said second link disconnect device being operable between a connect state in which said second link elements engage said second and fourth post engagement surfaces, thereby electrically connecting said second and fourth cable terminals, and a disconnect state in which said second link elements are spaced from said second and fourth engagement surfaces, thereby electrically isolating said second and fourth cable terminals. [0013] In a preferred form: said first terminal body defines a longitudinally extending first tunnel for receipt of the first mains core strand, at least one mains cable securing fastener being threadingly received in a threaded aperture extending through a wall of said first terminal body into said first tunnel for securing the first mains cable core strand within said first tunnel; said second terminal body defines a longitudinally extending second tunnel for receipt of the second mains cable core strand, at least one mains cable securing fastener being threadingly received in a threaded aperture extending through a wall of said second terminal body into said second tunnel for securing the second mains cable core strand within said second tunnel; and said third terminal body defines a longitudinally extending third tunnel for receipt of the third mains cable core strand, at least one mains cable securing fastener being threadingly received in a threaded aperture extending through a wall of said third terminal body into said third tunnel for securing the third mains cable core strand within said third tunnel. [0014] In a preferred form said first terminal body is provided with at least one longitudinally extending service cable aperture, for receipt of a service cable and at least one service cable securing fastener received in a threaded aperture extending through a wall of said first terminal 6 body into said service cable aperture for securing the service cable within said service cable aperture. Typically, each said service cable aperture extends longitudinally. [0015] In a preferred form said second terminal body is provided with at least one longitudinally extending service cable aperture, for receipt of a service cable and at least one service cable securing fastener received in a threaded aperture extending through a wall of said second terminal body into said service cable aperture for securing the service cable within said service cable aperture. Typically, each said service cable aperture extends longitudinally. [0016] In a preferred form: said first electrical cable terminal has a conductive first link member removeably fastened to said first terminal body, said first link member including said first post; and said second electrical cable terminal has a conductive second link member removeably fastened to said second terminal body, said second link member including said second post. [0017] In a preferred form, said third electrical cable terminal includes a conductive third link member removeably fastened to said third terminal body, said third link member including said third and fourth posts. [0018] In a preferred form, said system further comprises a cover assembly mounted over said first electrical cable terminal, said third electrical cable terminal, said second electrical cable terminal, said third electrical cable terminal, said insulating member and said link disconnect devices. Preferably, said cover assembly is provided with at least one lid for accessing said link disconnect devices. Preferably, each said lid is spring biased to a closed position. [0019] In a third aspect, the present invention provides a cable connection system kit for forming two-way and three-way cable connections, said kit comprising the first, second and third terminal bodies defined above, a first set of first and second link members as defined above in relation to the first aspect, a second set of first and second link members as defined above in relation to the second aspect, a first insulating member as defined above in relation to the first aspect, a second insulating member as defined above in relation to the second aspect, and first and second link disconnect devices as defined above.

7 Brief Description of Drawings [0020] Preferred embodiments of the present invention will now be described, by way of an example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings wherein: [0021] Figure 1 is an exploded rear perspective view of a two-way cable connection system; [0022] Figure 2 is a front perspective view of the two-way cable connection system of Figure 1 (without link disconnect device or cover); [0023] Figure 3 is a rear perspective view of the two-way cable connection system of Figure 1 (without link disconnect device or cover); [0024] Figure 4 is a plan view of the two-way cable connection system of Figure 1 (without link disconnect device or cover); [0025] Figure 5 is a front elevation view of the two-way cable connection system of Figure 1 (without link disconnect device or cover); [0026] Figure 6 is a side elevation view of the two-way cable connection system of Figure 1 (without link disconnect device or cover); [0027] Figure 7 is a partly sectioned perspective view from above of the link disconnect device of the cable connection system of Figure 1 in a disconnect state; [0028] Figure 8 is a further partly sectioned perspective view of the link disconnect device of Figure 7 in the disconnect state; [0029] Figure 9 is an end elevation partly cross-sectioned view of the link disconnect device of Figure 7 in the disconnect state; [0030] Figure 10 is a front perspective view of the two-way cable connection system of Figure 1, with the lid in an open position, an operating tool engaging the operating head and the electrical link disconnect device in a disconnect state; 8 [0031] Figure 11 is a cross-sectional view of the two-way cable connection system of Figure 1 in the configuration of Figure 10; [0032] Figure 12 is a front perspective view of the two-way cable connection system of Figure 1, with the lid in the open position, the operating tool engaging the operating head and the electrical link disconnect device in a connect state; [0033] Figure 13 is a cross-sectional view of the two-way cable connection system of Figure 1 in the configuration of Figure 12; [0034] Figure 14 is a front perspective view of the two-way cable connection system of Figure 1; [0035] Figure 15 is a rear perspective view of the two-way cable connection system of Figure 1; [0036] Figure 16 is an exploded rear perspective view of a three-way cable connection system; [0037] Figure 17 is a front perspective view of the three-way cable connection system of Figure 16 (without link disconnect device or cover); [0038] Figure 18 is a rear perspective view of the three-way cable connection system of Figure 16 (without link disconnect device or cover); [0039] Figure 19 is a plan view of the three-way cable connection system of Figure 16 (without link disconnect device or cover); [0040] Figure 20 is a front elevation view of the three-way cable connection system of Figure 16 (without link disconnect device or cover); [0041] Figure 21 is a side elevation view of the three-way cable connection system of Figure 16 (without link connect device or cover); [0042] Figure 22 is a front perspective view of the three-way cable connection system of Figure 16; and 9 [0043] Figure 23 is a rear perspective view of the three-way cable connection system of Figure 16. Description of Embodiments [0044] A two-way cable connection system 1000 is depicted in Figures 1 to 15 of the accompanying drawings. [0045] Figure 1 depicts the two-way cable connection system 1000 in an exploded state and also depicts an axis reference system which will be utilized throughout this specification, comprising a longitudinal axis X, lateral axis Y and transverse axis Z. The axes X, Y and Z are mutually orthogonal, with the mains cables to be connected utilizing the two-way cable connection system 1000 typically extending vertically up through the ground into a distribution unit within which the two-way cable connection system 1000 will generally be located. The longitudinal axis X will thus typically be oriented vertically. [0046] The two-way cable connection system 1000 comprises an electrically conductive first electrical cable terminal 100, an electrically conductive second electrical cable terminal 200, a non-conductive insulating member 300 and a link disconnect device 500. Preferably, the two way cable connection system 1000 further comprises a non-conductive cover assembly 600 mounted over the remaining components of the two-way cable connection system 1000. [0047] The first electrical cable terminal 100, second electrical cable terminal 200 and insulating member are depicted in an assembled state in Figures 2 to 6. The first electrical cable terminal 100 has a conductive first terminal body 110 that is adapted to receive, and be secured to, a first mains cable core strand, and a conductive first link member 130 that is removeably fastened to the first terminal body 110. [0048] The first terminal body 110 is typically machined from an aluminium material, such as 6060 aluminium alloy. The first terminal body 110 has a longitudinally extending tunnel 111, for receipt of a first mains cable core strand, that extends between a terminal body top face 112 and a terminal body bottom face 113. With the tunnel 111 extending longitudinally, it will typically extend in a vertical direction to receive the first mains cable core strand which will typically extend vertically within a distribution unit. In the embodiment depicted, the tunnel 10 111 has a diameter of approximately 23.5 mm and a depth, equal to the height of the first terminal body 110, of approximately 57 mm. [0049] At least one, and here two, primary threaded apertures 114 are formed in the first terminal body 110, each extending through a wall of the first terminal body 110 into the tunnel 111. A mains cable securing fastener 120 is threadingly received in each of the primary threaded apertures 114 with the leading end of each of the mains cable securing fasteners 120 being extendible into the tunnel 111 for engaging the mains cable core strand received therein, in use. Each of the mains cable securing fasteners 120 is typically a shear-head fastener configured to fail upon application of a predetermined torque such that a consistent level of engagement of the leading end of the mains cable securing fasteners 120 against the mains cable core strand is achieved, thereby providing consistent securement of the mains cable core strand. Provision of two primary threaded apertures 114 and associated mains cable securing fasteners 120 for the tunnel 111 ensures a more robust connection than would be provided with a single fastener only, although in some applications, a single primary mains cable securing fastener 120 may well be sufficient. [0050] The first terminal body 110 is also provided with a plurality of longitudinally extending service cable apertures 115, each for receipt of a service cable, which will typically provide power to individual properties, to street lighting or to some other form of service. In the embodiment depicted, the first terminal body 110 has three service cable apertures 115, each having a diameter of approximately 9.5 mm. With the service cable apertures 115 extending longitudinally, such that they extend vertically in the intended orientation, service cables extending vertically through the distribution unit parallel to the mains cables can be readily directed into the service cable apertures 115 without the need for any significant bending of the service cable. In the depicted embodiment, the service cable apertures 115 extend partway through a reduced height projecting portion 116 of the first terminal body 110 formed on the rear of the first terminal body 110. The service cable apertures 115 extend from the body bottom face 113 towards the top face 117 of the projecting portion 116. Securing means, in the form of at least one, and here two, secondary threaded apertures 118 are associated with each service cable aperture 115, extending through the rear face 119 of the projecting portion 116 of the first terminal body 100 into the associated service cable aperture 115. An associated service cable securing fastener (not depicted) extends through each secondary aperture 118 into the respective service cable aperture 115 so as to secure a service cable therein.

11 [0051] A terminal mounting aperture 121 extends transversely through the first terminal body 110. As best depicted in Figures 11 and 13, the terminal mounting aperture 121 is offset from (and thus does not communicate with) the tunnel 111, the service cable apertures 115 or the primary or secondary threaded apertures 114, 118. A threaded link member mounting aperture extends laterally from the rear face of the first terminal body 110, above the projecting portion 116. The link member mounting aperture is transversely offset from the first tunnel 111 so as not to impinge on the same. [0052] The first link member 130 is typically formed from an aluminium material, such as 6060 aluminium alloy as with the first terminal body 110. The first link member 130 comprises a first link member base 131 and a first post 132 that extends away from the first terminal body 110. Preferably that first post 132 extends in the longitudinal direction. The first post 132 has a pair of laterally opposing first post engagement surfaces 133, 134. The first post engagement surfaces 133, 134 lie in parallel planes that extend in the longitudinal and transverse directions. The first link member 130 is removeably fastened to the first terminal body 110 by way of a fastener 135 extending through an aperture 136 provided in the first link member base 131 and into the link member mounting aperture provided in the first terminal body 110. [0053] The second electrical cable terminal 200 comprises a conductive second terminal body 210 that is adapted to receive, and be secured to, a second mains cable core strand, and a conductive second link member 230 that is removeably fastened to the second terminal body 210. The second terminal body 210 of the embodiment depicted is a mirror image of the first cable terminal body 110 that has identical features, several of which have been annotated on the accompanying drawings with identical reference numerals to those features of the first terminal body 110. [0054] The second link member 230 is typically formed from an aluminium material, such as 6060 aluminium alloy and here is a mirror image of the first link member 130. The second link member 230 comprises a second link member base 231 and second post 232 that extends away from the second terminal body 210. Preferably, the second post 232 extends in the longitudinal direction. The second post 232 has a pair of laterally opposing first post engagement surfaces 233, 234. The second post engagement surfaces 233, 234 lie in parallel planes that extend in the longitudinal and transverse directions. The first and second posts 132, 232 are also at least substantially aligned such that one first post engagement surface 133 is at least substantially 12 coplanar with one second post engagement surface 233 and the other first post engagement surface 134 is at least substantially coplanar with the other second post engagement surface 234. The second link member 230 is remove ably fastened to the second terminal body 210 by way of a fastener 235 extending through an aperture 236 provided in the second link member base 231 and into the link member mounting aperture provided in the second terminal body 110. [0055] In a preferred embodiment, the insulating member 300 has a longitudinally and laterally extending divider wall 301 having a locator flange 302 transversely extending from a forward edge thereof. First and second opposing and transversely extending insulating sleeves 303, 304 extend from the dividing wall 301 and each have a length approximately equal to the transverse width of each of the first and second terminal bodies 110, 210. The insulating sleeves 303, 304 communicate to form a continuous passage there through. The insulating member 300 is removeably fastened to the first and second terminal bodies 110, 210 by way of a fastener 305. The first and second insulating sleeves 303, 304 extend through the terminal mounting apertures 121 provided in the first and second terminal bodies 110, 210 respectively, with the fastener 305 extending through the passage defined by the first and second sleeves 303, 304. A non conductive washer 306 is mounted on the fastener 305 between the first terminal body 110 and the head of the fastener, whilst a further non-conductive washer 306 is mounted on the fastener 305 between the second terminal body 210 and a nut 307 that is threaded on to the end of the fastener 305, so as to secure the first and second terminal bodies 110, 210 and insulating member 300 together. The washers 306 and insulating sleeves 303, 304 serve to electrically isolate the fastener 305 from the first and second terminal bodies 110, 210 thereby, in conjunction with the dividing wall 301, maintaining electrical isolation of the first and second terminal bodies 110, 210. [0056] An electrical connection between the first and second terminal bodies 110, 210 (and, thereby, between the first and second mains cable strands) may be achieved by way of a link disconnect device. The link disconnect device may be of the form described in Australian Patent Publication No. AU 2007231849, in the name of Cable Accessories (Australia) Pty Ltd, the entire contents of which are incorporated herewith by cross-reference. Alternatively, and preferably, the link disconnect device may be in the form of the link disconnect device 500 depicted in greater detail in Figures 7 to 13.

13 [0057] The link disconnect device 500 has a pair of opposing conductive first and second link elements 510, 511 defining a gap 512 there between in which the first and second posts 132, 232 are received. The link disconnect device 500 is operable between a connect state (particularly depicted in Figure 13) in which the link elements 510, 511 engage the first and second post engagement surfaces 133, 134, 233, 234 and a disconnect state (depicted in Figures 9 and 11) in which the link elements 510 are spaced from the first and second engagement surfaces 133, 134, 233, 234. The gap 512 between the link elements 510 is thus reduced when in the connect state as compared to the disconnect state. In the connect state, the link disconnect device 500 electrically connects the first and second cable terminals 100, 200, by way of the first and second posts 132, 232, whilst in the disconnect state the link disconnect device 500 is electrically isolated the first and second cable terminals 100, 200. [0058] The link disconnect device 500 further comprises a non-conductive housing 520, which may suitably be unitarily formed from a non-conductive material such as a glass-filled nylon. The housing 520 defines an elongate recess 521 here arranged to extend in the transverse direction Z. The recess 521 has opposing first and second recess side walls 522, 523, a recess opening 524 and an opposing (upper) recess end wall 525. In the preferred embodiment, the first and second recess side walls 522, 523 converge from the recess opening 521, at the bottom of the housing 520, towards the recess end wall 525 located towards the top of the housing 520. The first and second recess side walls 522, 523 are here generally planar and are each inclined in relation to the longitudinal axis X by an angle of about 10 degrees. The transverse ends of the recess 521 are bounded by further walls. [0059] The first link element 510 is mounted in the recess 521 adjacent the first recess side wall 522, whilst the second link element 511 is mounted in the recess 521 adjacent the second recess side wall 523 so as to define the gap 512 there between. In the arrangement depicted, a spring 513 extends across the gap 512 at each transverse end of the first and second link elements 510, 511, engaging the first and second link elements 510, 511 by way of holes provided in the transverse ends thereof. The spring 513 urges the first and second link elements 510, 511 apart and into engagement with the first and second recess side walls 522, 523 respectively. In the arrangement depicted, each of the first and second link elements 510, 511 has a thickness that tapers in the longitudinal direction towards the recess end wall 525.

14 [0060] In the embodiment depicted, the first and second link elements 510, 511 are arranged as tapered metallic plates, each having a taper angle equal to the angle of inclination of each of the first and second recess side walls 522, 523. This arrangement results in the inwardly directed faces 514, 515 of the first and second link elements 510, 511 being parallel and extending in planes extending parallel to the longitudinal and transverse axes X, Z (and parallel to the first and second post engagement surfaces 133, 134, 233, 234). The gap 512 thus has a constant width for receipt of the first and second posts 132, 232. The first and second link elements 510, 511 may be formed of tin-plated copper and extend along substantially the full transverse length of the recess 521. [0061] The link disconnect device 500 further comprises an operating mechanism that is operable to draw the first and second link elements 510, 511 towards each other, in the connect state, into engagement with the opposing first post engagement surfaces 133, 134 and the opposing second post engagement surfaces 233, 234. In the depicted embodiment, the operating mechanism comprises an operating fastener 540 having an operating head 541 and a threaded shank 542. The operating mechanism further comprises a support element 543 that supports the first and second link elements 510, 511 and has a central threaded support element aperture 544 located between the first and second link elements 510, 511. [0062] To keep the support element 543 in engagement with the first and second link elements 510, 511, the support element 543 is connected to (lower) distal end portions of the first and second link elements 510, 511 by way of a dovetail connection, as best depicted in Figure 8. The operating fastener 540 extends through an aperture 526 formed in the recess end wall 525, with the operating head 541 being located outside of the recess 521 and the shank 542 extending through the recess 521 into threaded engagement with the threaded aperture 544 formed in the support element 543. [0063] The operating fastener 540 is operable by way of the operating head 541. Rotation of the operating head 541 in one direction (typically a clockwise direction) draws the support element 543, and each of the first and second link elements 510, 511, towards the recess end wall 525. By virtue of the reverse tapered configuration of the first and second link elements 510, 511 and converging first and second recess side walls 522, 523, this action draws the first and second link elements 510, 511 towards each other, reducing the width of the gap 512, bringing the inwardly directed faces 514, 515 of the first and second link elements 510, 511 into engagement 15 with the first and second post engagement surfaces 133, 134, 233, 234. The link disconnect device may then be moved from the connect state back to the disconnect state, electrically isolating the first and second posts 132, 232 by rotating the operating head 541 in the opposing (typically counterclockwise direction), displacing the support elements 543 and first and second link elements 510, 511 away from the recess end wall 525 to allow the biasing force of the springs 513 to urge the first and second conductive elements 510, 511 apart. [0064] The housing 520 further comprises a housing end wall 527 that is spaced from the recess end wall 525. The operating head 541 is located in a cavity defined between the housing end wall 527 and the recess end wall 525 and is accessible through a tool aperture 528 provided in the housing end wall 527 using an operating tool 800, as depicted in Figures 10 through 13. The operating tool 800 preferably has an insulated handle 801 and shaft 802 and a tool head 803 that defines an hexagonal socket for receipt of the operating head 541, which is here in the form of a hexagonal head. Provision of the additional housing end wall 527, recessing the operating head 541 within the confines of the housing 520, inhibits access to the operating head 541 by an operator's hands, thereby reducing the risk of electric shock. Alternatively (or additionally), it is envisaged that the operating head 541 itself may be insulated. The tool aperture 528 may be provided with a pair of opposing recesses 529 configured to receive opposing lugs 804 that protrude from the tool head 803 to assist in aligning the tool head 803 with the operating head 541. [0065] The two-way cable connection system 1000 may further comprise a non-conductive cover assembly 600 which protects the remaining components of the two-way connection system 1000 and inhibits access to the conductive elements of the two-way connection system 1000, thereby reducing the possibility of operator electric shock. The cover assembly 600 comprises front and rear covers 601, 602 and a lid 603. The front and rear covers 601, 602 may suitably be formed of glass-reinforced nylon and are mutually secured by way of fasteners extending through apertures 604, 605 provided in the front and rear covers 601, 602, respectively. Mains cable access ports 606 are defined at the lower end of the front and rear covers 601, 602 when assembled. Longitudinally extending service ports 607 are provided n the front cover directly beneath the service cable apertures 115 with the cover assembly 600 in place. Fastener access ports 608 are also defined in the front face of the front cover 601, providing access for an Allen key to engage the Allen key drive recesses of the service cable securing fasteners. The fastener access ports 308 are sized to prevent entry of a user's fingers.

16 [0066] The lid 603 is mounted in relation to the housing 500 so as to be displaceable between a closed position (depicted in Figures 14 and 15) inhibiting access to the operating head 541 and an open position (depicted in Figures 10 to 13) allowing access to the operating head 541. In the configuration depicted, the lid 603 forms part of the cover assembly 600 and is handedly attached to the rear cover 602 by way of a hinge pin 609 located adjacent the top edge of the rear cover 602. A spring 610 biases the lid 603 towards the closed position, in which the lid covers an opening 612 defined by the top edges of the first and second covers 601, 602. As a result, a force acting against the spring 610, such as would generally be applied by the hand of an operator, is required to displace the lid towards the open position and to maintain the lid 603 in the open position. For application of such manual force, a handle 611 is provided on the upper face of the lid 603, opposing the housing 500. The handle 611 is in the form of a ring that is sized to receive the gloved finger of an operator. To operate the operating mechanism of the link disconnect device 500, the operator will thus need to use one hand to open the lid 603 and keep the lid 603 in the open position, and use the other hand to operate the insulated operating tool 800 to operate the operating head 541. The operator will thus not have any free hands which may accidentally come into engagement with any live conductive elements of the two way cable connection system, thereby greatly reducing the possibility of electric shock. [0067] The lid 603 is preferably transparent, allowing an operator to view the housing 520 and operating head 541 when closed. [0068] Whilst the orientation of the first and second posts 130, 230 is particularly suitable for establishing a two-way connection, aligning the first and second posts 130 230 for receipt within the gap 512 defined between the first and second link elements 510, 511 of the electrical link disconnect assembly 500, this orientation does not readily provide for establishing a three-way connection between three mains cable core strands. The fact that the first and second link members 130, 240 are remove ably fastened to the first and second terminal bodies 110, 210, however, allows for removal of the first and second link members 130, 230 and replacement with alternative link members that provide an appropriate orientation for providing a disconnect arrangement with a third electrical cable terminal. The arrangement also allows for removal of the first and second link members 130, 230 for arrangements where a disconnect facility is not required, instead permanently electrically connecting the first and second terminal bodies 110, 210.

17 [0069] A three-way connection system 2000, which utilizes the removeable fastening function of the link members to establish a three-way link disconnect arrangement, is depicted in Figures 16 to 23. Figure 16 depicts the three-way cable connection 2000 in an exploded state and again depicts the axis reference system comprising the longitudinal axis X, lateral axis Y and transverse axis Z. The longitudinal axis X will again typically be oriented vertically. [0070] The three-way cable connection system 2000 comprises an electrically conductive first electrical cable terminal 100', an electrically conductive second electrical cable terminal 200', an electrically conductive third electrical cable terminal 300, a non-conductive insulating member 800 and two link disconnect devices 500. Preferably, the three-way cable connection system 2000 further comprises a non-conductive cover assembly 700 mounted over the remaining components of the three-way cable connection system 2000. [0071] The first electrical cable terminal 100', second electrical cable terminal 200', third electrical cable terminal 300 and insulating member 800 are depicted in an assembled state in Figures 17 to 20. The first electrical cable terminal 100' utilizes the same first terminal body 110 and associated mains cable securing fasteners 120 and service cable securing fasteners as that described above in relation to the two-way cable connection system 1000. The first electrical cable terminal 100' also includes a first link member 130' that is identical to the first link member 130, except that the first post 132' upstanding from the first link member base 131 has its pair of first post engagement surfaces 133', 134' arranged to lie in parallel planes that extend in the longitudinal and transverse directions (that is, perpendicular to the first post engagement surfaces 133, 134 of the first post 132 used in the two-way connection system 1000). The first link member 130 is again removeable fastened to the first terminal body 110 by the fastener 135 extending through the aperture 136 provided in the first link member base 131 and in to the link member mounting aperture provided in the first terminal body 110. [0072] Similarly, the second electrical cable terminal 200' comprises the same terminal body 210 and associated mains cable securing fasteners 120 and service cable securing fasteners used in the two-way cable connection system 1000 described above. The second electrical cable terminal 200' also includes a second link member 230' that is identical to the second link member 230, except that the second post 232' upstanding from the second link member base 231 has its pair of second post engagement surfaces 233', 234' arranged to lie in parallel planes that extend in the longitudinal and transverse directions (that is, perpendicular to the second post 18 engagement surfaces 233, 234 of the second post 132 used in the two-way connection system). The second link member 130 is again removeably fastened to the second terminal body 210 by the fastener 135 extending through the aperture 236 provided in the first link member base 231 and in to the link member mounting aperture provided in the second terminal body 210. [0073] The third electrical cable terminal 300 comprises a conductive third terminal body 310 that is adapted to receive and be secured to a third mains cable core strand, and a conductive third link member 330 that is removeably fastened to the third terminal body 310. The third terminal body 300 is again typically machined from an aluminium material, such as 6060 aluminium alloy. The third terminal body 310 has a longitudinally extending tunnel 311 that extends from a terminal body bottom face 313 toward a terminal body top face 312. At least one, and here two, primary threaded apertures 314 are formed in the third terminal body 310, each extending through a wall of the third terminal body 310 into the tunnel 311. As with the first and second terminal bodies 110, 210, a mains cable securing fastener 120 is threadingly received in each of the primary threaded apertures 314 with the leading end of each of the mains cable securing fasteners 120 being extendible into the tunnel 311 for engaging the third mains cable core strand received therein, in use. The third electrical cable terminal 310 has a third link member 330, typically formed from aluminium material, again such as 6060 aluminium alloy. The third link member 330 here comprises a third link member base 331 which is removeably fastened to the terminal body top face 312 by way of a fastener 335 extending through a mounting aperture 336 formed in the centre of the third link member base 331 into a link member mounting aperture provided in the terminal body top face 312. [0074] The third link member 330 has third and fourth posts 332, 352 that each extend away from the third terminal body 310. Preferably, the third and fourth posts 332, 352 extend in the longitudinal direction. The third and fourth posts 332, 352 are offset in the transverse direction Z. The third post 332 has a pair of transversely opposing third post engagement surfaces 333, 334. The third post engagement surfaces 333, 334 lie in parallel planes that extend in the longitudinal and transverse directions. The fourth post 352 has a pair of transversely opposing fourth post engagement surfaces 533, 534. The fourth post engagement surfaces 533, 534 lie in parallel planes that also extend in the longitudinal and lateral directions. [0075] The first and fourth posts 132', 332 are at least substantially aligned such that one first post engagement surface 133' is at least substantially coplanar with one third post engagement 19 surface 333 and the other first post engagement surface 134' is at least substantially coplanar with the other third post engagement surface 334. Similarly, the second and fourth posts 232, 352 are at least substantially aligned such that one second post engagement surface 233 is at least substantially coplanar with one fourth post engagement surface 533 and the other second post engagement surface 234 is at least substantially coplanar with the other fourth post engagement surface 534. [0076] The insulating member 800 is here in the form of a longitudinally and laterally extending first divider wall 801 and a longitudinally and transversely extending second divider wall 802 transversely extending from a forward edge of the first divider wall 801. As with the insulating member 300 utilized with the two-way connection system 1000 discussed above, first and second opposing and transversely extending insulating sleeves 803, 804 are provided, extending from the first dividing wall 801 and again having a length approximately equal to the transverse width of each of the first and second terminal bodies 110, 210. Again the insulating sleeves 803, 804 communicate to define a continuous passage therethrough. A mounting aperture 805 extends laterally through the first divider wall 801 on to the centre of the second divider wall 802. The insulating member 800 is removeably fastened to the first and second terminal bodies 110, 210 by way of a fastener 305 and nut 307 in the same manner described above, in relation to the two-way connection system 1000, again utilizing non-conductive washers 306 and the sleeves 803, 804 to electrically isolate the fastener 305 from the first and second terminal bodies 110, 210. The insulating member 800 is also removeably fastened to the third terminal body 310 by way of a further fastener 308 that extends through the mounting aperture 805 laterally through the insulating member 800 and into a threaded mounting aperture provided in the rear face of the third terminal body 310. Again, a further non-conductive washer 306 is mounted on the further fastener 308. [0077] Rather than utilizing a single link disconnect device 500 to achieve an electrical connection between the first and second terminal bodies 110, 210, as utilized with the two-way cable connection system 1000 described above, in the three-way cable connection system 2000, two link disconnect devices 500 are utilized. A first link disconnect device 500 is utilized to provide an electrical link between the first and third electrical cable terminals 100, 300 whilst an identical second link disconnect device 500' is utilized to achieve an electrical link between the second and third electrical cable terminals 200, 300.

20 [0078] Specifically, the first link disconnect device 500 receives the first and third posts 132, 332 within the gap 512 defined between the opposing link elements 510, 511 of the first link disconnect device 500, with the first link disconnect device 500 being operable in the manner described above between a connect state in which the link elements 510, 511 engage the first and third post engagement surfaces 133, 134, 333, 334, thereby electrically connecting the first and third electrical cable terminals 100', 300, and a disconnect state in which the link elements 510,511 are spaced from the first and third engagement surfaces 133, 134, 333, 334, thereby electrically isolating the first and third electrical cable terminals 100', 300. The second link disconnect device 500' receives the second and fourth posts 232, 352 within the gap defined between the opposing link elements 510, 511 of the second link disconnect device 500', with the second link disconnect device 500' again being operable in the manner described above between a connect state in which the link elements 510, 511 engage the second and fourth post engagement surfaces 233, 234, 353, 354, thereby electrically connecting the second and third cable terminals 200', 300 in a disconnect state in which the link elements 510, 511 are spaced from the second and fourth engagement surfaces 233, 234, 353, 354, thereby electrically isolating the second and third electrical cable terminals 200', 300. [0079] The three-way cable connection system 2000 may further comprise a non-conductive cover assembly 700 which protects the remaining components of the three-way cable connection system 2000 and inhibits access to the conductive elements of the three-way cable connection system 2000 in a similar manner to that described above in relation to the cover assembly 600 utilized with the two-way cable connection system 1000. As with the cover assembly 600, the cover assembly 700 comprises front and rear covers 701, 702 that are non-conductive and are typically formed of glass-reinforced nylon. The front and rear covers 701, 702 are of similar form to the front and rear covers 601, 602, being provided with longitudinally extending mains cable access ports 706, longitudinally extending service ports 707 and fastener access ports 708 in a similar manner to that described above in relation to the cover assembly 600. [0080] The cover assembly 700 here has two lids 603, one mounted in relation to the housing 520 of each of the link disconnect devices 500, 500'. Each of the lids 603 is displaceable between a closed position inhibiting access to one of the operating heads 541 and an open position allowing access to the associated operating head 541. In the configuration depicted, the lids 603 form part of the cover assembly 700 and are hingedly attached to the transverse side walls of the rear cover 702, adjacent the opening defined by the top edges of the front and rear 21 covers 601, 702, by way of hinge pin 609. Again, a spring 610 is provided to bias each of the lids 603 towards the closed position in the same manner described above. Accordingly, for an operator to operate the operating mechanism of either of the link disconnect devices 500, 500' he would need to use one hand to open the lid 603 covering the housing 520 of the relevant link disconnect device 500, 500 and keep the lid 603 in the open position, and use the other hand to operate an insulated operating tool 800 to operate the operating head 541. [0081] It is further envisaged that the three-way connection system may utilize first, second and third electrical cable terminals that have the first, second, third and fourth posts integrally formed with the respective cable terminal bodies rather than provided on removeably fastenable link members.

Claims (16)

1. A cable connection system comprising: a) a first electrical cable terminal having: (i) a conductive first terminal body adapted to receive, and be secured to, a first mains cable core strand; and (ii) a conductive first link member removeably fastened to said first terminal body, said first link member having a first post extending away from said first terminal body, said first post having a pair of opposing first post engagement surfaces; b) a second electrical cable terminal having: (i) a conductive second terminal body adapted to receive, and be secured to, a second mains cable core strand; and (ii) a conductive second link member removeably fastened to said second terminal body, said second link member having a second post extending away from said second terminal body, said second post having a pair of opposing second post engagement surfaces, said second post being at least substantially aligned with said first post such that one of said first post engagement surfaces is at least substantially coplanar with one of said second post engagement surfaces and the other of said first post engagement surfaces is at least substantially coplanar with the other of said second post engagement surfaces; c) a non-conductive insulating member removeably fastened to, and separating, said first and second terminal bodies; and d) a link disconnect device having a pair of opposing conductive link elements defining a gap therebetween in which said first and second posts are received, said link disconnect device being operable between a connect state in which said link elements engage said first and second post engagement surfaces, thereby electrically connecting said first and second cable terminals, and a disconnect state in which said link elements are spaced from said first and second post engagement surfaces, thereby electrically isolating said first and second cable terminals. 23

2. The system of claim 1, wherein: said first terminal body defines a longitudinally extending first tunnel for receipt of the first mains core strand, at least one mains cable securing fastener being threadingly received in a threaded aperture extending through a wall of said first terminal body into said first tunnel for securing the first mains cable core strand within said first tunnel; and said second terminal body defines a longitudinally extending second tunnel for receipt of the second mains cable core strand, at least one mains cable securing fastener being threadingly received in a threaded aperture extending through a wall of said second terminal body into said second tunnel for securing the second mains cable core strand within said second tunnel.

3. The system of either one of claims 1 and 2, wherein said first terminal body is provided with at least one longitudinally extending service cable aperture, for receipt of a service cable, and at least one service cable securing fastener received in a threaded aperture extending through a wall of said first terminal body into said service cable aperture for securing the service cable within said service cable aperture.

4. The system of claim 3, wherein said second terminal body is provided with at least one longitudinally extending service cable aperture, for receipt of a service cable, and at least one service cable securing fastener received in a threaded aperture extending through a wall of said second terminal body into said service cable aperture for securing the service cable within said service cable aperture.

5. The system of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein said system further comprises a cover assembly mounted over said first electrical cable terminal, said second electrical cable terminal, said insulating member and said link disconnect device.

6. The system of claim 5, wherein said cover assembly is provided with a lid for accessing said link disconnect device.

7. The system of claim 6, wherein said lid is spring biased to a closed position. 24

8. A cable connection system comprising: a) a first electrical cable terminal having: (i) a conductive first terminal body adapted to receive, and be secured to, a first mains cable core strand; and (ii) a first post extending away from said first terminal body, said first post having a pair of opposing first post engagement surfaces; b) a second electrical cable terminal having: (i) a conductive second terminal body adapted to receive, and be secured to, a second mains cable core strand, and (ii) a second post extending away from said second terminal body, said second post having a pair of opposing second post engagement surfaces, said second post being offset from said first post; c) a third electrical cable terminal having: (i) a conductive third terminal body adapted to receive, and be secured to, a third mains cable core strand; (ii) a third post extending away from said third terminal body, said third post having a pair of opposing third post engagement surfaces, said third post being at least substantially aligned with said first post such that one of said first post engagement surfaces is at least substantially coplanar with one of said third post engagement surfaces and the other of said first post engagement surfaces is at least substantially coplanar with the other of said third post engagement surfaces; and (iii) a fourth post extending away from said third terminal body, said fourth post having a pair of opposing fourth post engagement surfaces, said fourth post being offset from said third post and at least substantially aligned with said second post such that one of said second post engagement surfaces is at least substantially coplanar with one of said fourth post engagement surfaces and the other of said second post engagement surfaces is at least substantially coplanar with the other of said fourth post engagement surfaces; d) a non-conductive insulating member removeably fastened to, and separating, said first, second and third terminal bodies; 25 e) a first link disconnect device having a pair of opposing conductive first link elements defining a gap therebetween in which said first and third posts are received, said first link disconnect device being operable between a connect state in which said first link elements engage said first and third post engagement surfaces, thereby electrically connecting said first and third cable terminals, and a disconnect state in which said first link elements are spaced from said first and third engagement surfaces, thereby electrically isolating said first and third cable terminals; and f) a second link disconnect device having a pair of opposing conductive second link elements defining a gap therebetween in which said second and fourth posts are received, said second link disconnect device being operable between a connect state in which said second link elements engage said second and fourth post engagement surfaces, thereby electrically connecting said second and fourth cable terminals, and a disconnect state in which said second link elements are spaced from said second and fourth engagement surfaces, thereby electrically isolating said second and fourth cable terminals.

9. The system of claim 8, wherein: said first terminal body defines a longitudinally extending first tunnel for receipt of the first mains core strand, at least one mains cable securing fastener being threadingly received in a threaded aperture extending through a wall of said first terminal body into said first tunnel for securing the first mains cable core strand within said first tunnel; said second terminal body defines a longitudinally extending second tunnel for receipt of the second mains cable core strand, at least one mains cable securing fastener being threadingly received in a threaded aperture extending through a wall of said second terminal body into said second tunnel for securing the second mains cable core strand within said second tunnel; and said third terminal body defines a longitudinally extending third tunnel for receipt of the third mains cable core strand, at least one mains cable securing fastener being threadingly received in a threaded aperture extending through a wall of said third terminal body into said third tunnel for securing the third mains cable core strand within said third tunnel.

10. The system of either one of claims 8 and 9, wherein said first terminal body is provided with at least one longitudinally extending service cable aperture, for receipt of a service cable, and at least one service cable securing fastener received in a threaded aperture extending through 26 a wall of said first terminal body into said service cable aperture for securing the service cable within said service cable aperture.

11. The system of claim 10, wherein said second terminal body is provided with at least one longitudinally extending service cable aperture, for receipt of a service cable, and at least one service cable securing fastener received in a threaded aperture extending through a wall of said second terminal body into said service cable aperture for securing the service cable within said service cable aperture.

12. The system of any one of claims 8 to 11, wherein said first electrical cable terminal has a conductive first link member removeably fastened to said first terminal body, said first link member including said first post; and said second electrical cable terminal has a conductive second link member removeably fastened to said second terminal body, said second link member including said second post.

13. The system of claim 12, wherein said third electrical cable terminal includes a conductive third link member removeably fastened to said third terminal body, said third link member including said third and fourth posts.

14. The system of any one of claims 8 to 12, wherein said system further comprises a cover assembly mounted over said first electrical cable terminal, said third electrical cable terminal, said second electrical cable terminal, said third electrical cable terminal, said insulating member and said link disconnect devices.

15. The system of claim 14, wherein said cover assembly is provided with at least one lid for accessing said link disconnect devices.

16. The system of claim 15, wherein each said lid is spring biased to a closed position. Legend Corporate Services Pty Ltd Patent Attorneys for the Applicant/Nominated Person SPRUSON & FERGUSON