Molex's passive safety pole connector, which has already been tested in some European countries, includes safety devices and systems that operate without human intervention and complies with the new EU legislation.
Thanks to the passive safety pin connector, applicable systems can comply with the new European standard EN12767:2007 (passive safety of road equipment support structures), which requires that in the event of an accident, for example if a vehicle collides with road equipment, the system disconnects immediately, within 0.4 seconds of the impact, both mechanically and electrically.
“This unique and cost-effective interconnection solution dramatically reduces the time required for the installation and removal of lighting or signage compared to conventional methods, which in turn significantly reduces traffic congestion as well as overall installation costs,” says Padraig Franklin, integrated product manager for the global market at Molex.
The passive safety pole connector features a waterproof cover, which is installed on the main circuit protection device. This cover, compliant with the IP68 mechanical and environmental protection rating, remains fixed until the connection is established with the connector on the pole side, which can be weeks or months later. During this entire period, the cover protects the connector from the elements.
“Molex passive safety pole connectors are widely used in heavily congested cities, such as London, where large parades and ceremonial events take place; streetlights or traffic signals can be quickly removed to ensure the safety of the public and participants in these events,” says Padraig Franklin, adding, “The ability to temporarily remove road equipment and quickly and efficiently reinstall it ensures that traffic disruption is minimized.”
