US20090308021A1 - Temporary Arm Gain and Saddle - Google Patents
Temporary Arm Gain and Saddle Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20090308021A1 US20090308021A1 US12/546,027 US54602709A US2009308021A1 US 20090308021 A1 US20090308021 A1 US 20090308021A1 US 54602709 A US54602709 A US 54602709A US 2009308021 A1 US2009308021 A1 US 2009308021A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- utility pole
- arm
- boring
- support system
- assembly
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
Images
Classifications
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H02—GENERATION; CONVERSION OR DISTRIBUTION OF ELECTRIC POWER
- H02G—INSTALLATION OF ELECTRIC CABLES OR LINES, OR OF COMBINED OPTICAL AND ELECTRIC CABLES OR LINES
- H02G7/00—Overhead installations of electric lines or cables
- H02G7/05—Suspension arrangements or devices for electric cables or lines
Definitions
- Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to utility line poles and, more particularly, to utility line supporting arms with at least one insulator saddle attached thereto, which temporarily attach to a utility line pole for transfer of utility line equipment.
- Supporting members, or arms, for utility poles are well known in the art. In fact, different materials have been used to assist and safely stabilize the permanent attachment of a horizontal arm for supporting utility lines. Those skilled in the art would appreciate wood, aluminum, fiberglass, and the like can permanently fasten supporting members to utility line poles. The supporting arms hold the utility lines above the ground.
- the related art predominately describes methods of permanently attaching a supporting arm horizontally to a utility pole.
- most of the related art methods require the boring of holes in the power poles and/or supporting arms to safely and securedly affix the horizontal arm to the utility pole.
- many problems exist with such an approach including, for example, the weight held by a particular arm changes over its lifetime and the need for temporary arms. As the weight is increased, the number of supporting members must be increased.
- the method of boring additional holes in the power poles and supporting arms for such supporting members decreases the lifespan of the poles and arms, and increases the cost to utility companies, as the company must purchase and install new poles and arms.
- Utility line pole equipment is typified in U.S. Pat. No. 2,870,793 to Bailey, U.S. Pat. No. 3,235,652 to Lindsey, U.S. Pat. No. 3,429,759 to Young, U.S. Pat. No. 3,499,973 to Barnes, U.S. Pat. No. 3,562,403 to Monahan et al., U.S. Pat. No. 3,574,104 to Medler, U.S. Pat. No. 3,813,837 to McClain et al., and U.S. Pat. No. 4,867,399 to Thérond. Yet, none of these teach the use of temporary, lightweight utility arms attached to a utility pole.
- Each reference embodies disadvantages and limitations overcome by embodiments of the present invention.
- U.S. Pat. No. 2,870,793 discloses a fiberglass arm, not the support or gain that passes it to the pole. It would be further understood by those skilled in the art that this is a permanent attachment to the electric utility pole.
- the Bailey device requires a complicated U-bolt system to attach the arm to the utility pole. Yet, this type of system makes the attachment more difficult and is more labor intensive to complete the attachment.
- the use of U-bolts and straps around the electric utility pole, along with a nut and bolt system creates tedious work for utility linemen.
- Bailey further discloses the use of fiberglass as a supporting member in an electric utility pole or arm.
- U.S. Pat. No. 3,235,352 relates to a utility line cross-arm. Like many utility arms, this arm holds wires and further includes a clamping means for attaching the wires to the arm for stability. Lindsey discloses boring holes in the electric utility pole, thus creating a permanent attachment. The boring of holes in the electric utility pole over time weakens the pole/arm.
- U.S. Pat. No. 3,499,973 discloses support brackets for standoff insulators. Barnes discloses first boring holes in the electric utility pole to attach a bracket, and then attaching the insulators to the bracket. Barnes is a permanent attachment to the electric utility pole.
- the permanent attachments of the above-discussed art are facilitated by boring holes in the utility poles, or using large nut-and-bolt systems.
- the boring of holes in supporting arms is disadvantageous, as it decreases the lifespan and stability of utility poles and utility arms, and further results in additional costs to the utility company to replace the bored poles and arms. Additionally, arms can be extremely heavy and are often unable to withstand additional weight from the attached utility lines.
- Supporting arms often comprise an attached insulator saddle.
- the saddle can be attached to the supporting arm, and used to hold wires in place.
- Insulators are typified in U.S. Pat. No. 219,644 to McDermott et al., U.S. Pat. No. 842,222 to Mead, U.S. Pat. No. 2,264,493 to Werning, U.S. Pat. No. 2,430,259 to Tichota, U.S. Pat. No. 2,450,730 to Hord, U.S. Pat. No. 2,537,719 to Tuepker, and U.S. Pat. No. 2,844,643 to Cofer et al. Yet, none of these insulators provide a solution to the constant boring of the holes in the supporting arm for the insulators.
- U.S. Pat. No. 219,644 discloses an insulator for a telegraph pole.
- McDermott et al. discloses a permanent attachment of the insulator to the arm. Yet, the insulator can only be located in one place on the supporting arm.
- the McDermott et al. insulator is of a limited type that can be attached to the supporting arm.
- U.S. Pat. No. 2,537,719 discloses an insulator and support for electric fences. Tuepker discloses the capability of withstanding only a lightweight load, and thus unsuitable in utility applications. Further, Tuepker is another example of a permanent fixture.
- Embodiments of the present invention relate to a process of releaseably connecting an arm to a utility pole.
- the conventional process can include a boring support system.
- the boring support system can include (i) boring a hole into the utility pole, (ii) boring a hole into the arm, and (iii) permanently fastening the arm to the utility pole via a bored fastening means, wherein the integrity of both the utility pole and the arm are compromised with bores.
- the improved process comprises releaseably securing the arm to the utility pole via a non-boring support system, wherein the non-boring support system is capable of securedly attaching the arm and the utility pole when a load on the arm includes utility lines.
- the improved process includes the non-boring support system releaseably securing the arm to the utility pole for temporarily supporting the arm during a reconducting process.
- the non-boring support system of the improved process can include a securing assembly defining a pathway sufficiently sized to securedly house the arm in an approximately normal orientation to the utility pole; and a mounting member to releaseably secure the securing assembly to the utility pole.
- the securing assembly can include a lining of the pathway adapted to reduce the amount of lateral slippage of the arm in the non-boring support system.
- the securing assembly can further comprise a hingeably connected locking device adapted to fully envelope at least a portion of the arm within the non-boring support system.
- the securing assembly can further include a three-sided housing, wherein the locking device is sealable at a top of the housing.
- the locking device can in another embodiment secure the arm in the securing assembly with a clamping device.
- the mounting member can include at least one aperture cooperatively shaped to receive a bolt of the utility pole for mounting the non-boring support system to the utility pole.
- the mounting member can include at least two chain receiving pathways for receiving a chain, wherein the chain wraps around the utility pole to secure the non-boring support system to the utility pole, without boring holes in the utility pole.
- a rear of the mounting member can be cooperatively shaped with the utility pole for flush fitting with the utility pole.
- a non-boring support system for supporting a temporary supporting arm for use in a reconducting process in an approximately normal orientation to a utility pole can comprise a securing assembly having a housing defining a pathway for receiving the supporting arm, the securing assembly having a locking device for releaseably securing a portion of the supporting arm within the housing of the securing assembly; and a mounting member for releaseably securing the securing assembly having the supporting arm to the utility pole.
- the non-boring supporting system can further include a saddle positioned on the supporting arm.
- the saddle provides an insulation from a conductor to the supporting arm.
- the saddle can comprise a first seat and a second seat for a non-boring assembly with the supporting arm.
- the first seat of the saddle can comprise a connector.
- the second seat of the saddle can also comprise a connector.
- the connector of the first seat and the connector of the second seat can be selected from the group consisting of an insulator pin, a dead end eye, a brace, a snatch block, and a conductor roller.
- the non-boring support system can further comprise a supporting arm for supporting one or more conductors a predetermined distance above the ground.
- the locking device can be hingeably connected to the securing assembly for securing the supporting arm into the pathway of the securing assembly.
- the mounting member can be secured to the utility pole by a non-boring assembly. Indeed, a rear of the mounting member can cooperatively fit the shape of the utility pole for flush fitting with the utility pole.
- FIG. 1 depicts an exploded view of a conventional system of securing a supporting arm to a utility pole by boring holes.
- FIG. 2 depicts the support system secured to a utility pole including a supporting arm, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 3 depicts a front perspective view of the support system, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 4 depicts a side perspective view of another embodiment of the support system, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 5 depicts a front perspective view of the support system including a supporting arm, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 6 depicts a rear view of a mounting member of the support system, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 7 depicts the support system secured to a utility pole, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 8 depicts a close-up view of a front view of a portion of the mounting member of the support system, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 9 depicts a perspective view of an insulator saddle, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 10 depicts a perspective view of the insulator saddle attached to the support arm, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 11 depicts a perspective view of the insulator saddle attached to the support arm, which is secured to the utility pole by the support system, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 12A depicts a side view of another embodiment of the insulator saddle, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 12B depicts a top view of the insulator saddle, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
- FIG. 1 illustrates a conventional system of mounting and securing the arm 105 to the pole 110 by boring a hole into an arm 105 and a utility pole 110 .
- a boring assembly 10 connected the arm 105 to the pole 110 .
- a hole 120 must be bored into the arm 105 .
- a hole 130 must be bored into the pole 110 .
- a fastening member, typically a bolt, 140 is inserted into the hole 120 of the arm 105 and the hole 130 of the pole 110 , wherein the arm 105 is secured to the pole 110 .
- embodiments of the present invention comprise a non-boring support system.
- the support system 100 enables attaching a supporting arm 105 to a utility pole 110 .
- the support system 100 can include a securing assembly 200 and a mounting member 300 .
- the securing assembly 200 can envelope the arm 105 to be secured to the pole 110 , wherein not requiring boring a hole into the arm 105 to securedly and safely secure the arm 105 to the pole 110 .
- the securing assembly 200 can comprise a housing 210 defining a channel or pathway 205 sufficiently large enough to receive and secure the supporting arm 105 .
- the mounting member 300 is used to attach the securing assembly 200 to the pole 110 .
- the mounting member 300 can be adapted to mount the securing assembly 200 to the utility pole 110 .
- the supporting system 100 eliminate the need of boring holes in the arm 105 ; therefore, the arm 105 can be reused.
- the support system 100 is adapted to hold the supporting arm 105 to the utility pole 110 in a non-boring assembly.
- the support system 100 can secure the supporting arm 105 approximately normal to the pole 110 ; hence, the supporting arm 105 rests horizontally.
- Utility poles 110 commonly referred to as power poles, electric utility poles, telephone poles, and the like—are often manufactured with wood, aluminum, steel, fiberglass, concrete, and the like.
- the supporting arm 105 can be manufactured of the same or like material to that of the utility pole 110 .
- the supporting arm 105 in an effort to lighten the load, can be manufactured having a portion of the center being hollow.
- the present supporting arm 105 is adapted to be temporarily attached to a utility pole to aid linemen in the transfer of lines in an upgrade, for example, reconducting.
- Reconducting refers to a method of upgrading conductors in a distribution or transmission electrical system.
- a residential area receiving a load can increase in population.
- an electric utility company must provide more electricity to a given area. Commonly, this is accomplished by providing larger conductor size (typically, a conductor having a larger diameter is installed).
- a temporary supporting arm 105 can be attached to an electric utility pole 110 .
- This supporting arm 105 can assist with moving the old conductors (smaller diameter conductors) out of the way and to pull new conductors (larger diameter conductors) to attach to the electric utility pole 110 . This transition assists the linemen with the changing of conductors and eases the overall process. Other utility companies can use the reconducting process to provide new, larger, and/or improved lines to their customers.
- the temporary supporting arm 105 holds the existing energized lines out of the way, preferably safely above the ground, while new lines and wiring are installed.
- lines were too heavy for wooden cross arms, wherein wooden cross arms were bored to attach to the pole.
- the process includes a first boring of the pole 110 , a second boring of the arm 105 , and fitting the arm 105 to the pole 110 , wherein the arm 105 is secured to the pole 110 by a fastening member 140 through the bored holes in the arm 105 and the pole 110 .
- An improved method of securing the arm 105 to the pole 110 includes removing the steps of boring a hole into the arm 105 and boring a hole into the pole 110 , and strapping the arm 105 to the pole with a support system 100 .
- the securing assembly 200 of the support system 100 can include a housing 210 and a locking device 220 .
- the housing 210 can include the pathway 205 and a liner 212 .
- the locking device 220 can include a fastening element 222 and a hinge member 224 .
- the housing 210 of the securing assembly 200 is adapted to house or envelope the supporting arm 105 , therein reducing, if not eliminating, the need of boring holes in the arm 105 .
- the pathway 205 of the housing 210 can be adapted to receive the supporting arm 105 .
- the housing 210 can be manufactured with aluminum, stainless steel, and/or galvanized steel.
- the housing 210 is manufactured with material that can withstand harsh environments and remain rather lightweight.
- the housing 210 of the securing assembly 200 can have a pathway 205 that is sufficiently large enough to receive the supporting arm 105 .
- the housing 210 can be manufactured to the shape of the supporting arm 105 .
- a fiberglass supporting arm can have rectangular dimensions of 4 inches by 6 inches.
- the pathway 205 of the housing 210 can be manufactured slightly larger than the dimensions of the fiberglass supporting arm, in order to receive the arm.
- the dimensions of the pathway 205 can vary, for example, from a rectangular-shaped cavity to an eclipse, oval or circular cavity. Even though FIG. 1 illustrates a rectangular pathway 205 for the supporting arm 105 , one skilled in the art would appreciate that the pathway 205 can have many different dimensions and shapes to receive many supporting arms 105 .
- the length of the housing 210 be in the range of 6 inches through 48 inches. Having the length of the range within this range provides the necessary support to secure the supporting arm 105 to the pole 110 .
- the liner 212 of the housing 210 can be positioned in the pathway 205 to prevent slippage of the supporting arm 105 . Indeed, the liner 212 of the securing assembly 200 can reduce, if not eliminate, slipping of the supporting arm 105 in the housing 210 . Since the supporting arm 105 is secured by the locking device 220 , the longitudinal movement (up and down) of the supporting arm 105 is secure. The lateral movement (side-to-side), however, is not secure; hence, the use of the liner 212 .
- the liner 212 can be composed of a sheet of plastic to grip the supporting arm 105 .
- the liner 212 can also be constructed from other polymer materials, such as polyolefins, such as, but not limited to ultra-high molecular weight (UHMW) polyethylenes, low, medium, and high density polyethylenes, polyurethanes, polyamides, and copolymers, and combinations thereof.
- the material selected for the liner 212 can include ridges, be weatherproof, and/or be flexible enough to have some give as the supporting arm 105 is inserted in the pathway 205 of the housing 210 .
- the housing 210 of the securing assembly 200 can be a three-sided housing, wherein a locking device 220 can be sealable at the top 250 of the housing 210 .
- the locking device 220 can form the housing 210 .
- the embodiment of FIG. 4 illustrates a two-side housing 210 , wherein the locking device 220 creates the remaining two sides to secure a supporting arm 105 .
- the locking device 220 of the securing assembly 200 can secure the supporting arm 105 in the housing 210 . Indeed, the fastening elements 222 can lock the locking device 220 of the securing assembly 200 .
- the locking device 220 can be in communication with the housing 210 via a hinge member 224 .
- the hinge member 224 can span the length of the housing 210 and the locking device 220 for optimal locking functionality.
- the locking device 220 can be adapted to secure the supporting arm 105 within the housing 210 with the fastening element 222 .
- the locking device 222 can be secured with a fastening element 222 .
- the fastening element 222 can include a clamping device 226 or aperture/bolt system.
- FIG. 3 illustrates the clamping device 226 which can secure to the housing 210 .
- the clamping device 226 can be adapted to snap into an aperture 228 on the housing 210 . Upon snapping the clamping device 226 into the aperture 228 , the locking device 220 is locked.
- the locking device 220 can include an aperture 228 to receive a fastening element 222 .
- the fastening element 222 can be an extending bolt 240 connected to the housing 210 .
- the bolt 240 can be received by the aperture 228 of the locking device 220 , as depicted by dashed lines 260 .
- the rotation about the hinge member 224 enables this fastening.
- a nut 242 e.g., a wing nut, is used to ease the task of the linemen wearing thick, insulated gloves, can be secured to the bolt 240 ensuring locking of the locking device 220 .
- the clamping device 226 , the bolt 240 , and the nut 242 can be manufactured with galvanized or stainless steel, as to survive harsh environments and reducing the possibility of rusting.
- One skilled in the art would appreciate that the locking device 220 can be secured with other similar devices.
- FIG. 4 illustrates another embodiment of the present invention.
- the embodiment in FIG. 2 illustrates the locking device 220 as part of the housing 210 .
- the locking device 220 is hinged with a hinge member 224 , and can be sealed to create two sides of the housing 210 for the supporting arm 105 to be secured.
- the locking device 220 of the support system 100 has the hinge member 224 positioned in the front 255 of the housing 210 .
- the locking device 220 includes at least two apertures 228 to receive the bolts 240 .
- the bolts 240 are secured with wings nuts 242 , making it easier for linemen to lock and unlock the locking device 220 .
- the bolts 240 can be positioned on the top 250 of the housing 210 .
- the support system 100 is illustrated with a supporting arm 105 positioned inside the pathway 205 of the housing 210 .
- a supporting arm 105 being approximately 12 feet in length, for example, one side of the supporting arm not span more than 7 feet. This prevents overweighing one side, and the potential release of the supporting arm 105 by the securing assembly 200 .
- the dimensions and materials of the supporting arm 105 can vary. While it is the supporting arm 105 can be approximately 12 feet in length and be manufactured with fiberglass, the support system 100 can support shorter or longer arms 105 and made of other materials.
- the support system 100 further includes a mounting member 300 .
- the mounting member 300 can have a length (l) and width (w).
- the mounting member 300 is the device that attaches the securing assembly 200 of the support system 100 to the pole 110 . Indeed, the mounting member 300 is in communication, often coupled by bolts, with the securing assembly 200 .
- the mounting member has a top 301 , bottom 302 , front 303 and rear 304 .
- the mounting member 300 can include at least one bolt-receiving aperture 305 and a chain receiving pathway 310 .
- the mounting member 300 can be made of aluminum, galvanized steel, stainless steel, and the like, wherein the material of the mounting member 300 is weatherproof.
- One method of attaching and securing the mounting member 300 the pole 110 is to insert a bolt having a head into the pole 110 .
- the head of the bolt can then be received by the apertures 305 of the mounting member 300 , wherein the support system 100 can be secured to the pole 110 .
- the aperture 305 has a U-shape. At least one aperture 305 can be cooperatively shaped to receive the bolt of the pole 110 .
- a chain 315 can be wrapped around the pole 110 and received by the chain receiving pathway 310 .
- the chain receiving pathway 310 enable the placing of the support system 100 in and around obstructions on the pole 110 , such as inductors, transformers, and other pole utility devices.
- the chain receiving pathway 310 can be placed at the top 301 and, additional the bottom 302 of the front 303 of the mounting member 300 .
- the chain 315 can be wrapped around the pole 110 and can be tightened to the pole 110 with a tightening mechanism 320 .
- the handle 322 of the tightening mechanism 320 By twisting the handle 322 of the tightening mechanism 320 , the chain engages the pole 110 tightly ensuring the attachment of the support system 100 to the pole 110 .
- FIG. 8 illustrates that the rear 304 of the mounting member 300 can be implemented to fit the shape of the pole 110 .
- the rear 304 of the mounting member 300 can be curved to fit flush with the pole 110 .
- the shape of the rear 304 of the mounting member 300 can be, for instance, V-shape, curved and flat, based on the pole 110 to receive the support system 100 .
- the shape of the rear 304 of the mounting member 300 can be many different shapes, widths and lengths, depending on the shape of the pole 110 .
- FIG. 9 illustrates a perspective view of an insulator saddle 400 .
- the saddle 400 is a device that further enhances the supporting arm 105 , as the saddle 400 can secure and hold utility lines, without the need of boring holes into the supporting arm 105 , i.e., a non-boring assembly. Consequently, the use of the saddle 400 enables recycling of the supporting arm 105 , as the arm 105 can be reused. The recycling of the arm 105 does not affect the stability of the arm 105 , but can result in a cost savings to the utility company.
- the saddle 400 includes a first seat 410 and a second seat 420 .
- the first seat 410 and the second seat 420 are in communication via at least two bolts 430 .
- the bolts 430 extend from the first seat 410 to the second seat 420 .
- the seats 410 and 420 have a length 411 and 421 that span across the supporting arm 105 , wherein the seats 410 and 420 are held onto the arm 105 . Additionally, the seats 410 and 420 include a normal extending members 412 and 422 at the ends of the lengths 411 and 421 . The members 412 and 422 form edges of the seat for the seats 410 and 420 to rest upon the arm 105 . The members 412 and 422 can be positioned normal to the lengths 411 and 421 for optimal seat 410 and 420 security to the supporting arm 105 .
- the first seat 410 and the second seat 420 can include many different connectors 440 and the like.
- the seats 410 and 420 can include an insulator pin to hold conductors, a dead end eye, a brace, a snatch block, a conductor roller, and the like.
- FIG. 8 has an insulator pin 450 on the first seat 410 and a dead end eye 455 on the second seat 420 .
- the insulator pin 450 sits on top of the supporting arm 105 to secure a conductor 460 , while the dead end eye 455 extends downward from the supporting arm 105 .
- the seats 410 and 420 each include at least two apertures.
- the apertures are adapted to receive the bolts 430 .
- the bolts 430 can be secured to the seats 410 and 420 by a nut.
- One skilled in the art would recognize that the seats 410 and 420 can be secured to the supporting arm 105 by many other convenient and temporary methods.
- FIG. 10 illustrates a close up view of the saddle 400 positioned on a supporting arm 105 .
- the saddle has an insulator pin 450 on the first seat 410 and a dead end eye 455 on the second seat 420 .
- the insulator pin 450 secures the conductor 460 in place.
- the dead end eye 455 secures an inductor 470 to distribute electricity to a structure.
- FIG. 11 illustrates the support system 100 in an exemplary arrangement securing a supporting member 105 to a pole 110 , wherein the supporting member 105 includes three saddles 400 .
- the supporting member 105 includes three saddles 400 .
- Other arrangements of saddles 400 are possible depending on the number of conductors 460 to be supported by the arm 105 .
- FIG. 12A illustrates a side view of another exemplary embodiment of the saddle 400 .
- the first seat 410 can be angled to receive the supporting arm 105
- the second seat 420 can be flat.
- the seats 410 and 420 can further include a liner to prevent slippage of the saddle 400 from the supporting arm 105 .
- FIG. 12B illustrates a top view of the FIG. 12A embodiment, wherein the two bolts 430 are illustrated with the insulator pin 450 .
- the insulator pin 450 can secure the conductor 460 above the supporting arm 105 .
Landscapes
- Suspension Of Electric Lines Or Cables (AREA)
Abstract
A non-boring support system, or a temporary arm gain, is described. The support system enables attaching a supporting arm to an existing utility pole. The support system can include a securing assembly and a mounting member. The securing assembly can define an aperture sufficiently large enough to receive and secure the supporting arm. The mounting member can be adapted to mount the securing assembly to the utility pole.
Description
- This application is a divisional of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/344,781, filed 1 Feb. 2006, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,578,488, issued 25 Aug. 2009, which claims benefit, under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e), of U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 60/649,013, filed 1 Feb. 2005, the entire contents and substance of which are hereby incorporated by reference.
- 1. Field of the Invention
- Embodiments of the present invention generally relate to utility line poles and, more particularly, to utility line supporting arms with at least one insulator saddle attached thereto, which temporarily attach to a utility line pole for transfer of utility line equipment.
- 2. Description of Related Art
- Supporting members, or arms, for utility poles are well known in the art. In fact, different materials have been used to assist and safely stabilize the permanent attachment of a horizontal arm for supporting utility lines. Those skilled in the art would appreciate wood, aluminum, fiberglass, and the like can permanently fasten supporting members to utility line poles. The supporting arms hold the utility lines above the ground.
- The related art predominately describes methods of permanently attaching a supporting arm horizontally to a utility pole. In fact, most of the related art methods require the boring of holes in the power poles and/or supporting arms to safely and securedly affix the horizontal arm to the utility pole. Yet, it can be appreciated that many problems exist with such an approach, including, for example, the weight held by a particular arm changes over its lifetime and the need for temporary arms. As the weight is increased, the number of supporting members must be increased. Hence, the method of boring additional holes in the power poles and supporting arms for such supporting members decreases the lifespan of the poles and arms, and increases the cost to utility companies, as the company must purchase and install new poles and arms.
- Utility line pole equipment is typified in U.S. Pat. No. 2,870,793 to Bailey, U.S. Pat. No. 3,235,652 to Lindsey, U.S. Pat. No. 3,429,759 to Young, U.S. Pat. No. 3,499,973 to Barnes, U.S. Pat. No. 3,562,403 to Monahan et al., U.S. Pat. No. 3,574,104 to Medler, U.S. Pat. No. 3,813,837 to McClain et al., and U.S. Pat. No. 4,867,399 to Thérond. Yet, none of these teach the use of temporary, lightweight utility arms attached to a utility pole. Each reference embodies disadvantages and limitations overcome by embodiments of the present invention.
- For example, U.S. Pat. No. 2,870,793 discloses a fiberglass arm, not the support or gain that passes it to the pole. It would be further understood by those skilled in the art that this is a permanent attachment to the electric utility pole. The Bailey device requires a complicated U-bolt system to attach the arm to the utility pole. Yet, this type of system makes the attachment more difficult and is more labor intensive to complete the attachment. The use of U-bolts and straps around the electric utility pole, along with a nut and bolt system, creates tedious work for utility linemen. Bailey further discloses the use of fiberglass as a supporting member in an electric utility pole or arm.
- U.S. Pat. No. 3,235,352 relates to a utility line cross-arm. Like many utility arms, this arm holds wires and further includes a clamping means for attaching the wires to the arm for stability. Lindsey discloses boring holes in the electric utility pole, thus creating a permanent attachment. The boring of holes in the electric utility pole over time weakens the pole/arm.
- U.S. Pat. No. 3,499,973 discloses support brackets for standoff insulators. Barnes discloses first boring holes in the electric utility pole to attach a bracket, and then attaching the insulators to the bracket. Barnes is a permanent attachment to the electric utility pole.
- The permanent attachments of the above-discussed art are facilitated by boring holes in the utility poles, or using large nut-and-bolt systems. The boring of holes in supporting arms is disadvantageous, as it decreases the lifespan and stability of utility poles and utility arms, and further results in additional costs to the utility company to replace the bored poles and arms. Additionally, arms can be extremely heavy and are often unable to withstand additional weight from the attached utility lines.
- Supporting arms often comprise an attached insulator saddle. The saddle can be attached to the supporting arm, and used to hold wires in place.
- Insulators are typified in U.S. Pat. No. 219,644 to McDermott et al., U.S. Pat. No. 842,222 to Mead, U.S. Pat. No. 2,264,493 to Werning, U.S. Pat. No. 2,430,259 to Tichota, U.S. Pat. No. 2,450,730 to Hord, U.S. Pat. No. 2,537,719 to Tuepker, and U.S. Pat. No. 2,844,643 to Cofer et al. Yet, none of these insulators provide a solution to the constant boring of the holes in the supporting arm for the insulators.
- For example, U.S. Pat. No. 219,644 discloses an insulator for a telegraph pole. McDermott et al. discloses a permanent attachment of the insulator to the arm. Yet, the insulator can only be located in one place on the supporting arm. In addition, the McDermott et al. insulator is of a limited type that can be attached to the supporting arm.
- U.S. Pat. No. 2,264,493 refers to a fence post. The screw used in Werning pierces the channel to which it is attached. Consequently, this reference teaches a permanent attachment.
- U.S. Pat. No. 2,537,719 discloses an insulator and support for electric fences. Tuepker discloses the capability of withstanding only a lightweight load, and thus unsuitable in utility applications. Further, Tuepker is another example of a permanent fixture.
- Accordingly, it would be beneficial to provide lightweight utility line supporting arms, which can temporarily attach to a utility pole for transfer of utility line equipment, and it would be further beneficial to have at least one insulator saddle attached. It is to the provision of such a device that embodiments of the present invention are primarily directed, which overcomes the above-listed disadvantages.
- Embodiments of the present invention relate to a process of releaseably connecting an arm to a utility pole. In a conventional process of attaching an arm to a utility pole, the conventional process can include a boring support system. The boring support system can include (i) boring a hole into the utility pole, (ii) boring a hole into the arm, and (iii) permanently fastening the arm to the utility pole via a bored fastening means, wherein the integrity of both the utility pole and the arm are compromised with bores. The improved process comprises releaseably securing the arm to the utility pole via a non-boring support system, wherein the non-boring support system is capable of securedly attaching the arm and the utility pole when a load on the arm includes utility lines.
- The improved process includes the non-boring support system releaseably securing the arm to the utility pole for temporarily supporting the arm during a reconducting process.
- The non-boring support system of the improved process can include a securing assembly defining a pathway sufficiently sized to securedly house the arm in an approximately normal orientation to the utility pole; and a mounting member to releaseably secure the securing assembly to the utility pole.
- The securing assembly can include a lining of the pathway adapted to reduce the amount of lateral slippage of the arm in the non-boring support system. The securing assembly can further comprise a hingeably connected locking device adapted to fully envelope at least a portion of the arm within the non-boring support system. The securing assembly can further include a three-sided housing, wherein the locking device is sealable at a top of the housing. The locking device can in another embodiment secure the arm in the securing assembly with a clamping device.
- The mounting member can include at least one aperture cooperatively shaped to receive a bolt of the utility pole for mounting the non-boring support system to the utility pole. The mounting member can include at least two chain receiving pathways for receiving a chain, wherein the chain wraps around the utility pole to secure the non-boring support system to the utility pole, without boring holes in the utility pole. A rear of the mounting member can be cooperatively shaped with the utility pole for flush fitting with the utility pole.
- Moreover, a non-boring support system for supporting a temporary supporting arm for use in a reconducting process in an approximately normal orientation to a utility pole can comprise a securing assembly having a housing defining a pathway for receiving the supporting arm, the securing assembly having a locking device for releaseably securing a portion of the supporting arm within the housing of the securing assembly; and a mounting member for releaseably securing the securing assembly having the supporting arm to the utility pole.
- Additionally, the non-boring supporting system can further include a saddle positioned on the supporting arm. The saddle provides an insulation from a conductor to the supporting arm. The saddle can comprise a first seat and a second seat for a non-boring assembly with the supporting arm. The first seat of the saddle can comprise a connector. The second seat of the saddle can also comprise a connector. Indeed, the connector of the first seat and the connector of the second seat can be selected from the group consisting of an insulator pin, a dead end eye, a brace, a snatch block, and a conductor roller.
- The non-boring support system can further comprise a supporting arm for supporting one or more conductors a predetermined distance above the ground. Also, the locking device can be hingeably connected to the securing assembly for securing the supporting arm into the pathway of the securing assembly.
- The mounting member can be secured to the utility pole by a non-boring assembly. Indeed, a rear of the mounting member can cooperatively fit the shape of the utility pole for flush fitting with the utility pole.
- To the accomplishment of the foregoing and related ends, the following description and annexed drawings set forth in detail certain illustrative aspects and implementations of the invention. These are indicative of but a few of the various ways in which the principles of the invention may be employed. Other aspects, advantages and novel features of the invention will become apparent from the following detailed description of the invention when considered in conjunction with the drawings.
-
FIG. 1 depicts an exploded view of a conventional system of securing a supporting arm to a utility pole by boring holes. -
FIG. 2 depicts the support system secured to a utility pole including a supporting arm, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 3 depicts a front perspective view of the support system, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 4 depicts a side perspective view of another embodiment of the support system, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 5 depicts a front perspective view of the support system including a supporting arm, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 6 depicts a rear view of a mounting member of the support system, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 7 depicts the support system secured to a utility pole, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 8 depicts a close-up view of a front view of a portion of the mounting member of the support system, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 9 depicts a perspective view of an insulator saddle, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 10 depicts a perspective view of the insulator saddle attached to the support arm, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 11 depicts a perspective view of the insulator saddle attached to the support arm, which is secured to the utility pole by the support system, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 12A depicts a side view of another embodiment of the insulator saddle, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. -
FIG. 12B depicts a top view of the insulator saddle, in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. - To facilitate an understanding of the principles and features of the invention, it is explained hereinafter with reference to its implementation in an illustrative embodiment. In particular, the invention is described in the context of a support system for securing a utility arm to a utility pole.
-
FIG. 1 , however, illustrates a conventional system of mounting and securing thearm 105 to thepole 110 by boring a hole into anarm 105 and autility pole 110. Aboring assembly 10 connected thearm 105 to thepole 110. Conventionally, in order to secure the arm to thepole 110, ahole 120 must be bored into thearm 105. In addition, ahole 130 must be bored into thepole 110. Then, a fastening member, typically a bolt, 140 is inserted into thehole 120 of thearm 105 and thehole 130 of thepole 110, wherein thearm 105 is secured to thepole 110. Oftentimes, more than onehole 120 in thearm 105 and more than onehole 130 in thepole 110 must be bored to properly and effectively secure thearm 105 to thepole 110. After removing thearm 105 off thepole 110, utility companies were left with a number of bored holes in thearm 105 and thepole 110. In fact, after a few installations of the arm to the pole linemen referred to the arms and poles as Swiss cheese. Thus, after a few times of securing thesame arm 105 to one ormore poles 110, thearm 105 cannot be used again. Moreover, eventually thepole 110 must even be replaced; which is costly. It is therefore necessary to improve the process of securingarms 105 topoles 110. - Referring now in detail to the drawing figures, wherein like reference numerals represent like parts throughout the several views, embodiments of the present invention comprise a non-boring support system.
- As illustrated in
FIG. 2 , and in accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, thesupport system 100 enables attaching a supportingarm 105 to autility pole 110. Thesupport system 100 can include a securingassembly 200 and a mountingmember 300. The securingassembly 200 can envelope thearm 105 to be secured to thepole 110, wherein not requiring boring a hole into thearm 105 to securedly and safely secure thearm 105 to thepole 110. The securingassembly 200 can comprise ahousing 210 defining a channel orpathway 205 sufficiently large enough to receive and secure the supportingarm 105. The mountingmember 300 is used to attach the securingassembly 200 to thepole 110. The mountingmember 300 can be adapted to mount the securingassembly 200 to theutility pole 110. - Embodiments of the present invention, the supporting
system 100, eliminate the need of boring holes in thearm 105; therefore, thearm 105 can be reused. Thesupport system 100 is adapted to hold the supportingarm 105 to theutility pole 110 in a non-boring assembly. - The
support system 100 can secure the supportingarm 105 approximately normal to thepole 110; hence, the supportingarm 105 rests horizontally.Utility poles 110—commonly referred to as power poles, electric utility poles, telephone poles, and the like—are often manufactured with wood, aluminum, steel, fiberglass, concrete, and the like. The supportingarm 105 can be manufactured of the same or like material to that of theutility pole 110. Moreover, the supportingarm 105, in an effort to lighten the load, can be manufactured having a portion of the center being hollow. - The
present supporting arm 105 is adapted to be temporarily attached to a utility pole to aid linemen in the transfer of lines in an upgrade, for example, reconducting. Reconducting refers to a method of upgrading conductors in a distribution or transmission electrical system. For example, a residential area receiving a load can increase in population. As a result of this increase in population, an electric utility company must provide more electricity to a given area. Commonly, this is accomplished by providing larger conductor size (typically, a conductor having a larger diameter is installed). In an effort to ease the responsibility of linemen, a temporarysupporting arm 105 can be attached to anelectric utility pole 110. This supportingarm 105 can assist with moving the old conductors (smaller diameter conductors) out of the way and to pull new conductors (larger diameter conductors) to attach to theelectric utility pole 110. This transition assists the linemen with the changing of conductors and eases the overall process. Other utility companies can use the reconducting process to provide new, larger, and/or improved lines to their customers. - In the reconducting example, the temporary supporting
arm 105 holds the existing energized lines out of the way, preferably safely above the ground, while new lines and wiring are installed. In conventional systems, lines were too heavy for wooden cross arms, wherein wooden cross arms were bored to attach to the pole. - In a conventional process of attaching an
arm 105 to thepole 110, the process includes a first boring of thepole 110, a second boring of thearm 105, and fitting thearm 105 to thepole 110, wherein thearm 105 is secured to thepole 110 by afastening member 140 through the bored holes in thearm 105 and thepole 110. An improved method of securing thearm 105 to thepole 110 includes removing the steps of boring a hole into thearm 105 and boring a hole into thepole 110, and strapping thearm 105 to the pole with asupport system 100. - Referring now to
FIG. 3 , the securingassembly 200 of thesupport system 100 can include ahousing 210 and alocking device 220. Thehousing 210 can include thepathway 205 and aliner 212. Thelocking device 220 can include afastening element 222 and ahinge member 224. - The
housing 210 of the securingassembly 200 is adapted to house or envelope the supportingarm 105, therein reducing, if not eliminating, the need of boring holes in thearm 105. Indeed, thepathway 205 of thehousing 210 can be adapted to receive the supportingarm 105. - The
housing 210 can be manufactured with aluminum, stainless steel, and/or galvanized steel. Thehousing 210 is manufactured with material that can withstand harsh environments and remain rather lightweight. - The
housing 210 of the securingassembly 200 can have apathway 205 that is sufficiently large enough to receive the supportingarm 105. Indeed, thehousing 210 can be manufactured to the shape of the supportingarm 105. For example, a fiberglass supporting arm can have rectangular dimensions of 4 inches by 6 inches. Thepathway 205 of thehousing 210 can be manufactured slightly larger than the dimensions of the fiberglass supporting arm, in order to receive the arm. The dimensions of thepathway 205 can vary, for example, from a rectangular-shaped cavity to an eclipse, oval or circular cavity. Even thoughFIG. 1 illustrates arectangular pathway 205 for the supportingarm 105, one skilled in the art would appreciate that thepathway 205 can have many different dimensions and shapes to receive many supportingarms 105. - In some embodiments, the length of the
housing 210 be in the range of 6 inches through 48 inches. Having the length of the range within this range provides the necessary support to secure the supportingarm 105 to thepole 110. - The
liner 212 of thehousing 210 can be positioned in thepathway 205 to prevent slippage of the supportingarm 105. Indeed, theliner 212 of the securingassembly 200 can reduce, if not eliminate, slipping of the supportingarm 105 in thehousing 210. Since the supportingarm 105 is secured by thelocking device 220, the longitudinal movement (up and down) of the supportingarm 105 is secure. The lateral movement (side-to-side), however, is not secure; hence, the use of theliner 212. Theliner 212 can be composed of a sheet of plastic to grip the supportingarm 105. Theliner 212 can also be constructed from other polymer materials, such as polyolefins, such as, but not limited to ultra-high molecular weight (UHMW) polyethylenes, low, medium, and high density polyethylenes, polyurethanes, polyamides, and copolymers, and combinations thereof. The material selected for theliner 212 can include ridges, be weatherproof, and/or be flexible enough to have some give as the supportingarm 105 is inserted in thepathway 205 of thehousing 210. - As illustrated in
FIG. 3 , thehousing 210 of the securingassembly 200 can be a three-sided housing, wherein alocking device 220 can be sealable at the top 250 of thehousing 210. In an alterative embodiment, as illustrated inFIG. 4 , thelocking device 220 can form thehousing 210. The embodiment ofFIG. 4 illustrates a two-side housing 210, wherein thelocking device 220 creates the remaining two sides to secure a supportingarm 105. - The
locking device 220 of the securingassembly 200 can secure the supportingarm 105 in thehousing 210. Indeed, thefastening elements 222 can lock thelocking device 220 of the securingassembly 200. Thelocking device 220 can be in communication with thehousing 210 via ahinge member 224. Thehinge member 224 can span the length of thehousing 210 and thelocking device 220 for optimal locking functionality. - The
locking device 220 can be adapted to secure the supportingarm 105 within thehousing 210 with thefastening element 222. Thelocking device 222 can be secured with afastening element 222. Thefastening element 222 can include aclamping device 226 or aperture/bolt system. -
FIG. 3 illustrates theclamping device 226 which can secure to thehousing 210. Theclamping device 226 can be adapted to snap into anaperture 228 on thehousing 210. Upon snapping theclamping device 226 into theaperture 228, thelocking device 220 is locked. - In another embodiment, as illustrated in
FIG. 4 , thelocking device 220 can include anaperture 228 to receive afastening element 222. Thefastening element 222 can be an extendingbolt 240 connected to thehousing 210. Thebolt 240 can be received by theaperture 228 of thelocking device 220, as depicted by dashedlines 260. The rotation about thehinge member 224 enables this fastening. After theaperture 228 receives thebolt 240, anut 242, e.g., a wing nut, is used to ease the task of the linemen wearing thick, insulated gloves, can be secured to thebolt 240 ensuring locking of thelocking device 220. Theclamping device 226, thebolt 240, and thenut 242 can be manufactured with galvanized or stainless steel, as to survive harsh environments and reducing the possibility of rusting. One skilled in the art would appreciate that thelocking device 220 can be secured with other similar devices. -
FIG. 4 illustrates another embodiment of the present invention. Unlike the embodiment illustrated inFIG. 3 , wherein thelocking device 220 includes a lock top, the embodiment inFIG. 2 illustrates thelocking device 220 as part of thehousing 210. Thelocking device 220 is hinged with ahinge member 224, and can be sealed to create two sides of thehousing 210 for the supportingarm 105 to be secured. Thelocking device 220 of thesupport system 100 has thehinge member 224 positioned in thefront 255 of thehousing 210. Thelocking device 220 includes at least twoapertures 228 to receive thebolts 240. Thebolts 240 are secured withwings nuts 242, making it easier for linemen to lock and unlock thelocking device 220. Thebolts 240 can be positioned on the top 250 of thehousing 210. - Referring now to
FIG. 5 , which is similar toFIG. 2 , thesupport system 100 is illustrated with a supportingarm 105 positioned inside thepathway 205 of thehousing 210. In a supportingarm 105 being approximately 12 feet in length, for example, one side of the supporting arm not span more than 7 feet. This prevents overweighing one side, and the potential release of the supportingarm 105 by the securingassembly 200. One skilled in the art would appreciate that the dimensions and materials of the supportingarm 105 can vary. While it is the supportingarm 105 can be approximately 12 feet in length and be manufactured with fiberglass, thesupport system 100 can support shorter orlonger arms 105 and made of other materials. - Referring now to
FIG. 6 , thesupport system 100 further includes a mountingmember 300. The mountingmember 300 can have a length (l) and width (w). The mountingmember 300 is the device that attaches the securingassembly 200 of thesupport system 100 to thepole 110. Indeed, the mountingmember 300 is in communication, often coupled by bolts, with the securingassembly 200. - The mounting member has a top 301, bottom 302,
front 303 and rear 304. The mountingmember 300 can include at least one bolt-receivingaperture 305 and achain receiving pathway 310. The mountingmember 300 can be made of aluminum, galvanized steel, stainless steel, and the like, wherein the material of the mountingmember 300 is weatherproof. - One method of attaching and securing the mounting
member 300 thepole 110 is to insert a bolt having a head into thepole 110. The head of the bolt can then be received by theapertures 305 of the mountingmember 300, wherein thesupport system 100 can be secured to thepole 110. In an exemplary embodiment, theaperture 305 has a U-shape. At least oneaperture 305 can be cooperatively shaped to receive the bolt of thepole 110. - If the boring of a bolt into the pole is not possible, a
chain 315 can be wrapped around thepole 110 and received by thechain receiving pathway 310. Thechain receiving pathway 310 enable the placing of thesupport system 100 in and around obstructions on thepole 110, such as inductors, transformers, and other pole utility devices. - As illustrated in
FIG. 7 , thechain receiving pathway 310 can be placed at the top 301 and, additional thebottom 302 of thefront 303 of the mountingmember 300. Thechain 315 can be wrapped around thepole 110 and can be tightened to thepole 110 with atightening mechanism 320. By twisting thehandle 322 of thetightening mechanism 320, the chain engages thepole 110 tightly ensuring the attachment of thesupport system 100 to thepole 110. -
FIG. 8 illustrates that the rear 304 of the mountingmember 300 can be implemented to fit the shape of thepole 110. For instance, for around pole 110, the rear 304 of the mountingmember 300 can be curved to fit flush with thepole 110. The shape of the rear 304 of the mountingmember 300 can be, for instance, V-shape, curved and flat, based on thepole 110 to receive thesupport system 100. One skilled in the art would appreciate that the shape of the rear 304 of the mountingmember 300 can be many different shapes, widths and lengths, depending on the shape of thepole 110. - Referring now to
FIG. 9 illustrates a perspective view of aninsulator saddle 400. Thesaddle 400 is a device that further enhances the supportingarm 105, as thesaddle 400 can secure and hold utility lines, without the need of boring holes into the supportingarm 105, i.e., a non-boring assembly. Consequently, the use of thesaddle 400 enables recycling of the supportingarm 105, as thearm 105 can be reused. The recycling of thearm 105 does not affect the stability of thearm 105, but can result in a cost savings to the utility company. - The
saddle 400 includes afirst seat 410 and asecond seat 420. Thefirst seat 410 and thesecond seat 420 are in communication via at least twobolts 430. Thebolts 430 extend from thefirst seat 410 to thesecond seat 420. - The
seats length arm 105, wherein theseats arm 105. Additionally, theseats members lengths members seats arm 105. Themembers lengths optimal seat arm 105. - The
first seat 410 and thesecond seat 420 can include manydifferent connectors 440 and the like. For instance, theseats FIG. 8 has aninsulator pin 450 on thefirst seat 410 and adead end eye 455 on thesecond seat 420. Theinsulator pin 450 sits on top of the supportingarm 105 to secure aconductor 460, while thedead end eye 455 extends downward from the supportingarm 105. - The
seats bolts 430. Thebolts 430 can be secured to theseats seats arm 105 by many other convenient and temporary methods. -
FIG. 10 illustrates a close up view of thesaddle 400 positioned on a supportingarm 105. The saddle has aninsulator pin 450 on thefirst seat 410 and adead end eye 455 on thesecond seat 420. Theinsulator pin 450 secures theconductor 460 in place. Thedead end eye 455 secures aninductor 470 to distribute electricity to a structure. -
FIG. 11 illustrates thesupport system 100 in an exemplary arrangement securing a supportingmember 105 to apole 110, wherein the supportingmember 105 includes three saddles 400. There can be twosaddles 400 on one side of thepole 110 on the supporting arm, and onesaddle 400 on the other side of thepole 110 on the supportingarm 105. Alternatively, there can be threesaddles 400 on one side of thepole 110 on the supportingarm 105, and nosaddles 400 the other side of thepole 110 on the supporting arm. Other arrangements ofsaddles 400 are possible depending on the number ofconductors 460 to be supported by thearm 105. -
FIG. 12A illustrates a side view of another exemplary embodiment of thesaddle 400. Thefirst seat 410 can be angled to receive the supportingarm 105, while thesecond seat 420 can be flat. Theseats saddle 400 from the supportingarm 105. -
FIG. 12B illustrates a top view of theFIG. 12A embodiment, wherein the twobolts 430 are illustrated with theinsulator pin 450. Theinsulator pin 450 can secure theconductor 460 above the supportingarm 105. - While the invention has been disclosed in its exemplary forms, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that many modifications, additions, and deletions can be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention and its equivalents, as set forth in the following claims.
Claims (20)
1. In a process of attaching an arm to a utility pole, the process including a boring support system, being (i) boring a hole into the utility pole, (ii) boring a hole into the arm, and (iii) permanently fastening the arm to the utility pole via a bored fastening means, wherein the integrity of both the utility pole and the arm are compromised with bores, the improvement comprising releaseably securing the arm to the utility pole via a non-boring support system, wherein the non-boring support system is capable of securedly attaching the arm and the utility pole when a load on the arm includes utility lines.
2. The improved process of claim 1 , wherein the non-boring support system releaseably secures the arm to the utility pole for temporarily supporting the arm during a reconductoring process.
3. The improved process of claim 2 , wherein the non-boring support system includes:
a securing assembly defining a pathway sufficiently sized to securedly house the arm in an approximately normal orientation to the utility pole;
a mounting member to releaseably secure the securing assembly to the utility pole; and
the securing assembly includes a lining of the pathway adapted to reduce the amount of lateral slippage of the arm in the non-boring support system.
4. The improved process of claim 3 , wherein the non-boring support system carrying the arm in a normal orientation relative to the utility pole.
5. The improved process of claim 3 , wherein the mounting member includes at least one aperture cooperatively shaped to receive a bolt of the utility pole for mounting the non-boring support system to the utility pole.
6. The improved process of claim 4 , wherein the mounting member includes at least two chain receiving pathways for receiving a chain, wherein the chain wraps around the utility pole to secure the non-boring support system to the utility pole.
7. The improved process of claim 4 , wherein the securing assembly further comprises a hingeably connected locking device adapted to fully envelope at least a portion of the arm within the non-boring support system.
8. The improved process of claim 3 , wherein the securing assembly includes a three-sided housing, wherein the locking device is sealable at a top of the housing.
9. The improved process of claim 3 , wherein the locking device secures the arm in the securing assembly with a clamping device.
10. The improved process of claim 3 , wherein a rear of the mounting member is cooperatively shaped with the utility pole for flush fitting with the utility pole.
11. A method of attaching a supporting arm to a utility pole structure, the method comprising:
securing an assembly defining a pathway sufficiently sized to securedly house the supporting arm in a normal orientation to the utility pole structure; and
connecting a mounting member about the perimeter of the utility pole structure and in connection with the assembly for releaseably securing the securing assembly to the utility pole structure.
12. The method of claim 11 , further comprising positioning the supporting arm in the pathway of the assembly.
13. The method of claim 11 , wherein the mounting member is a non-boring support system adapted to securedly couple the assembly and the supporting arm to the utility pole structure without boring holes into the utility pole structure and without compromising the integrity of the utility pole structure.
14. The method of claim 11 , further comprising providing a liner within the pathway of the assembly for reducing the amount of lateral slippage of the supporting arm in the assembly.
15. A method of attaching a supporting arm to a utility pole for reconducturing, the method comprising:
positioning a securing assembly upon the utility pole;
receiving the supporting arm in a pathway of the securing assembly, wherein the orientation of the supporting arm is normal to the utility pole; and
coupling a non-boring mounting assembly to the securing assembly for releaseably securing the securing assembly to the utility pole.
16. The method of claim 15 , further comprising coupling the non-boring mounting assembly to the utility pole for carrying the securing assembly upon the utility pole.
17. The method of claim 15 , wherein the supporting arm carries a first conductor cable for transferring electricity, the amount of electricity being capable of being transferred via the first conductor cable comprising a first unit.
18. The method of claim 17 , further comprising securing a second conductor cable for transferring electricity of a second unit, wherein the second unit value is greater than the first unit value.
19. The method of claim 18 , further comprising disabling and removing the first conductor wire and providing energy to the second conductor for transferring electricity.
20. The method of claim 18 , further comprising positioning a saddle to be carried by the supporting arm, the saddle comprising an insulator, and saddle adapted to carry the first conductor.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US12/546,027 US20090308021A1 (en) | 2005-02-01 | 2009-08-24 | Temporary Arm Gain and Saddle |
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US64901305P | 2005-02-01 | 2005-02-01 | |
US11/344,781 US7578488B2 (en) | 2005-02-01 | 2006-02-01 | Temporary arm gain and saddle |
US12/546,027 US20090308021A1 (en) | 2005-02-01 | 2009-08-24 | Temporary Arm Gain and Saddle |
Related Parent Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US11/344,781 Division US7578488B2 (en) | 2005-02-01 | 2006-02-01 | Temporary arm gain and saddle |
Publications (1)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20090308021A1 true US20090308021A1 (en) | 2009-12-17 |
Family
ID=36814731
Family Applications (2)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US11/344,781 Active 2026-05-22 US7578488B2 (en) | 2005-02-01 | 2006-02-01 | Temporary arm gain and saddle |
US12/546,027 Abandoned US20090308021A1 (en) | 2005-02-01 | 2009-08-24 | Temporary Arm Gain and Saddle |
Family Applications Before (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US11/344,781 Active 2026-05-22 US7578488B2 (en) | 2005-02-01 | 2006-02-01 | Temporary arm gain and saddle |
Country Status (1)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (2) | US7578488B2 (en) |
Cited By (1)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20100229493A1 (en) * | 2007-01-19 | 2010-09-16 | Thomas & Betts International, Inc. | Arm connection for a structural member |
Families Citing this family (7)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US7578488B2 (en) * | 2005-02-01 | 2009-08-25 | The Southern Company | Temporary arm gain and saddle |
US7883065B2 (en) * | 2009-06-16 | 2011-02-08 | Bogen Communications, Inc. | Mounting bracket |
US9379527B2 (en) * | 2012-02-22 | 2016-06-28 | Marmon Utility, Llc | Stringing messenger clamp and methods of using the same |
AU2013203633B2 (en) * | 2013-02-26 | 2015-02-19 | Infrabuild Wire Pty Limited | A post mounting system and apparatus |
EP3549817A1 (en) * | 2018-04-05 | 2019-10-09 | Dubuis et Cie | Catenary grounding device fall restriction apparatus and method of use |
DE202018103690U1 (en) * | 2018-04-06 | 2018-08-02 | DEHN + SÖHNE GmbH + Co. KG. | Multi-part universal housing for mounting components of information, measurement and communication technology |
WO2022203821A1 (en) * | 2021-03-24 | 2022-09-29 | Commscope Technologies Llc | Telecommunications mounting frames and methods of making same |
Citations (37)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US219644A (en) * | 1879-09-16 | Improvement in telegraph-poles | ||
US842222A (en) * | 1904-11-23 | 1907-01-29 | George A Mead | Catenary suspension for trolley-wires. |
US2264493A (en) * | 1938-08-08 | 1941-12-02 | George C Werning | Fence post |
US2430259A (en) * | 1947-03-21 | 1947-11-04 | Rudolph V Tichota | Electric insulator for fence posts |
US2450730A (en) * | 1947-12-08 | 1948-10-05 | Hord Guy | Post and insulator for electric fences |
US2537719A (en) * | 1948-10-27 | 1951-01-09 | Oscar W Tuepker | Insulator and support for electrically charged fence wires |
US2844643A (en) * | 1947-08-20 | 1958-07-22 | Thomas N Cofer | Transmission line support |
US2870793A (en) * | 1955-02-08 | 1959-01-27 | Gar Wood Ind Inc | Supporting members |
US3235652A (en) * | 1964-03-10 | 1966-02-15 | Kenneth P Lindsey | Electric line cross-arm with wire stringing and clamping means |
US3429758A (en) * | 1966-01-24 | 1969-02-25 | Edwin C Young | Method of making filament wound structural columns |
US3446582A (en) * | 1966-02-22 | 1969-05-27 | Albright & Wilson Mfg Ltd | Preparation of ammonium phosphates without undesirable non-sulphide precipitates |
US3499973A (en) * | 1968-07-11 | 1970-03-10 | Lexalite Corp | Support bracket for standoff insulators and the like |
US3562403A (en) * | 1968-03-20 | 1971-02-09 | Cascade Pole Co | Resin coated wooden poles and light standards incorporating same |
US3574104A (en) * | 1968-01-24 | 1971-04-06 | Plastigage Corp | Glass fiber constructional member |
US3813837A (en) * | 1972-10-16 | 1974-06-04 | Cascade Pole Co | Fiberglass pole and method and apparatus for fabricating same |
US4025824A (en) * | 1976-02-12 | 1977-05-24 | Cheatham Harry P | Transformer support rack |
US4489910A (en) * | 1982-05-24 | 1984-12-25 | Ferguson Joseph D | Mounting bracket for traffic signal installation |
US4728749A (en) * | 1984-09-03 | 1988-03-01 | R.F.D. Consultants Pty. Ltd. | Utility pole assembly |
US4860985A (en) * | 1988-09-14 | 1989-08-29 | Olson Pattern & Foundry Works, Inc. | Bracket assembly for supporting a traffic sign |
US4867399A (en) * | 1987-03-20 | 1989-09-19 | Manufacture D'appareillage Electrique De Cahors | Insulating equipment for an electric line pole and method for making it |
US5174535A (en) * | 1989-05-18 | 1992-12-29 | Vanbrace Pty. Ltd. | Cross-arm mounting bracket for poles |
US5228657A (en) * | 1991-11-29 | 1993-07-20 | Hall Gaddis G | Guy wire suspension apparatus |
US5445348A (en) * | 1994-09-12 | 1995-08-29 | Reliable Bethea Power Products, Inc. | Auxiliary cable attachment |
US5605017A (en) * | 1994-01-13 | 1997-02-25 | Pupi Enterprises L.L.C. | Pultruded utility line support structure and method |
US5769556A (en) * | 1996-12-02 | 1998-06-23 | Universal Consolidated Methods, Inc. | Bicycle clamp |
US5876000A (en) * | 1997-11-06 | 1999-03-02 | Sioux Chief Manufacturing Company, Inc. | Universal pipe bracket |
US6142434A (en) * | 1997-07-01 | 2000-11-07 | Trost; Michael D. | Utility pole clamp |
US6357709B1 (en) * | 1999-06-23 | 2002-03-19 | A. Philip Parduhn | Bracket assembly with split clamp member |
US6378821B1 (en) * | 2000-02-23 | 2002-04-30 | Hubbell Incorporated | Electrical equipment cluster mount |
US6517052B1 (en) * | 2001-03-29 | 2003-02-11 | Marvin Lake | Installation tool system for pole-mounted communication cables |
US6766992B1 (en) * | 2003-04-24 | 2004-07-27 | The United States Of America As Represented By The Secretary Of The Navy | Mounting bracket for attachment to flat or cylindrical surfaces |
US6892990B2 (en) * | 2002-04-02 | 2005-05-17 | Preformed Line Products Company | Modular cable support apparatus, method, and system |
US6965074B2 (en) * | 2001-06-14 | 2005-11-15 | Abb Ab | Pole-top insulator |
US7191732B2 (en) * | 2004-08-18 | 2007-03-20 | Neal Jr Robert G | Apparatus and method for feeding wild animals |
US7216850B2 (en) * | 2001-06-11 | 2007-05-15 | Daewon Electric Co. Ltd. | Electric wire changing device for wire replacing works on electric poles and power distributing method without cutting off power supply |
US7530539B2 (en) * | 2000-08-28 | 2009-05-12 | Conveytech S.R.L. | Pole top support for aerial electric power lines |
US7578488B2 (en) * | 2005-02-01 | 2009-08-25 | The Southern Company | Temporary arm gain and saddle |
-
2006
- 2006-02-01 US US11/344,781 patent/US7578488B2/en active Active
-
2009
- 2009-08-24 US US12/546,027 patent/US20090308021A1/en not_active Abandoned
Patent Citations (37)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US219644A (en) * | 1879-09-16 | Improvement in telegraph-poles | ||
US842222A (en) * | 1904-11-23 | 1907-01-29 | George A Mead | Catenary suspension for trolley-wires. |
US2264493A (en) * | 1938-08-08 | 1941-12-02 | George C Werning | Fence post |
US2430259A (en) * | 1947-03-21 | 1947-11-04 | Rudolph V Tichota | Electric insulator for fence posts |
US2844643A (en) * | 1947-08-20 | 1958-07-22 | Thomas N Cofer | Transmission line support |
US2450730A (en) * | 1947-12-08 | 1948-10-05 | Hord Guy | Post and insulator for electric fences |
US2537719A (en) * | 1948-10-27 | 1951-01-09 | Oscar W Tuepker | Insulator and support for electrically charged fence wires |
US2870793A (en) * | 1955-02-08 | 1959-01-27 | Gar Wood Ind Inc | Supporting members |
US3235652A (en) * | 1964-03-10 | 1966-02-15 | Kenneth P Lindsey | Electric line cross-arm with wire stringing and clamping means |
US3429758A (en) * | 1966-01-24 | 1969-02-25 | Edwin C Young | Method of making filament wound structural columns |
US3446582A (en) * | 1966-02-22 | 1969-05-27 | Albright & Wilson Mfg Ltd | Preparation of ammonium phosphates without undesirable non-sulphide precipitates |
US3574104A (en) * | 1968-01-24 | 1971-04-06 | Plastigage Corp | Glass fiber constructional member |
US3562403A (en) * | 1968-03-20 | 1971-02-09 | Cascade Pole Co | Resin coated wooden poles and light standards incorporating same |
US3499973A (en) * | 1968-07-11 | 1970-03-10 | Lexalite Corp | Support bracket for standoff insulators and the like |
US3813837A (en) * | 1972-10-16 | 1974-06-04 | Cascade Pole Co | Fiberglass pole and method and apparatus for fabricating same |
US4025824A (en) * | 1976-02-12 | 1977-05-24 | Cheatham Harry P | Transformer support rack |
US4489910A (en) * | 1982-05-24 | 1984-12-25 | Ferguson Joseph D | Mounting bracket for traffic signal installation |
US4728749A (en) * | 1984-09-03 | 1988-03-01 | R.F.D. Consultants Pty. Ltd. | Utility pole assembly |
US4867399A (en) * | 1987-03-20 | 1989-09-19 | Manufacture D'appareillage Electrique De Cahors | Insulating equipment for an electric line pole and method for making it |
US4860985A (en) * | 1988-09-14 | 1989-08-29 | Olson Pattern & Foundry Works, Inc. | Bracket assembly for supporting a traffic sign |
US5174535A (en) * | 1989-05-18 | 1992-12-29 | Vanbrace Pty. Ltd. | Cross-arm mounting bracket for poles |
US5228657A (en) * | 1991-11-29 | 1993-07-20 | Hall Gaddis G | Guy wire suspension apparatus |
US5605017A (en) * | 1994-01-13 | 1997-02-25 | Pupi Enterprises L.L.C. | Pultruded utility line support structure and method |
US5445348A (en) * | 1994-09-12 | 1995-08-29 | Reliable Bethea Power Products, Inc. | Auxiliary cable attachment |
US5769556A (en) * | 1996-12-02 | 1998-06-23 | Universal Consolidated Methods, Inc. | Bicycle clamp |
US6142434A (en) * | 1997-07-01 | 2000-11-07 | Trost; Michael D. | Utility pole clamp |
US5876000A (en) * | 1997-11-06 | 1999-03-02 | Sioux Chief Manufacturing Company, Inc. | Universal pipe bracket |
US6357709B1 (en) * | 1999-06-23 | 2002-03-19 | A. Philip Parduhn | Bracket assembly with split clamp member |
US6378821B1 (en) * | 2000-02-23 | 2002-04-30 | Hubbell Incorporated | Electrical equipment cluster mount |
US7530539B2 (en) * | 2000-08-28 | 2009-05-12 | Conveytech S.R.L. | Pole top support for aerial electric power lines |
US6517052B1 (en) * | 2001-03-29 | 2003-02-11 | Marvin Lake | Installation tool system for pole-mounted communication cables |
US7216850B2 (en) * | 2001-06-11 | 2007-05-15 | Daewon Electric Co. Ltd. | Electric wire changing device for wire replacing works on electric poles and power distributing method without cutting off power supply |
US6965074B2 (en) * | 2001-06-14 | 2005-11-15 | Abb Ab | Pole-top insulator |
US6892990B2 (en) * | 2002-04-02 | 2005-05-17 | Preformed Line Products Company | Modular cable support apparatus, method, and system |
US6766992B1 (en) * | 2003-04-24 | 2004-07-27 | The United States Of America As Represented By The Secretary Of The Navy | Mounting bracket for attachment to flat or cylindrical surfaces |
US7191732B2 (en) * | 2004-08-18 | 2007-03-20 | Neal Jr Robert G | Apparatus and method for feeding wild animals |
US7578488B2 (en) * | 2005-02-01 | 2009-08-25 | The Southern Company | Temporary arm gain and saddle |
Cited By (2)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20100229493A1 (en) * | 2007-01-19 | 2010-09-16 | Thomas & Betts International, Inc. | Arm connection for a structural member |
US8171695B2 (en) * | 2007-01-19 | 2012-05-08 | Thomas & Butts International, Inc. | Arm connection for a structural member |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
US20060180723A1 (en) | 2006-08-17 |
US7578488B2 (en) | 2009-08-25 |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
US20090308021A1 (en) | Temporary Arm Gain and Saddle | |
US5661946A (en) | Pole top extension | |
US8480041B2 (en) | Beam clamp | |
US6283425B1 (en) | Mounting bracket | |
US20130048933A1 (en) | Livestock fence system | |
US8299357B2 (en) | Non-boring support system for transmission line structures | |
US10971915B2 (en) | Mounting bracket systems for dead-end utility lines | |
US4973795A (en) | Temporary transmission hot line crossarm and method of replacing transmission hot line crossarms | |
US5412158A (en) | Electric fence wire insulation | |
US11569648B2 (en) | Joint-use bracket for installing communication lines on utility pole | |
EP1062709A1 (en) | Wireless telecommunication antenna mount | |
US20090126284A1 (en) | Arm connection for a structural member | |
US7772500B2 (en) | Overhead and underground pole mount cable restraint insulator | |
CN210925241U (en) | Subassembly is fixed in installation of overhead transmission line iron tower signboard | |
US6971212B1 (en) | Brace arm | |
US20080120822A1 (en) | Yoke assembly and method of installing same | |
US20230085769A1 (en) | Joint-use bracket for installing communication lines on utility pole | |
US8171695B2 (en) | Arm connection for a structural member | |
JP2912907B1 (en) | Aerial branching method of distribution line and aerial branching structure of distribution line | |
KR200168297Y1 (en) | Fitting equipment for support electric line to single form | |
US20230400123A1 (en) | Breakaway cable attachment systems | |
EP1075721B9 (en) | A cable clamp | |
JP3039023U (en) | Base station fixture for wireless communication | |
US7712264B2 (en) | Extendable aerial service wire mast | |
WO1993012647A1 (en) | Electric tape fencing connector |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: THE SOUTHERN COMPANY, GEORGIA Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:KISER, ANTHONY;REEL/FRAME:023296/0261 Effective date: 20060313 |
|
STCB | Information on status: application discontinuation |
Free format text: ABANDONED -- FAILURE TO RESPOND TO AN OFFICE ACTION |