Retained lock system and method

Abstract

An apparatus for securing first and second ends of a meter sealing ring, the meter sealing ring adapted for use in installing a meter to a watthour meter box. The apparatus comprises a lock having a head member and a shank portion comprising moveable locking members, the shank portion being insertable through an aperture formed in the first end of the sealing ring. The apparatus further comprises at least a retaining sleeve adapted to capture the shank portion, wherein the lock is retained on the first end of the sealing ring.

Description

[0001]This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60 / 686,695, filed Jun. 3, 2005.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]1. Field of the Invention[0003]The present invention relates generally to a lock with a retaining structure, and more specifically, it relates to apparatus, systems and methods for securing at least one structure or a portion of a utility service enclosure such as, for example, a watthour meter sealing ring to prevent the separation of two opposing members of the watthour meter sealing ring.[0004]2. Description of the Background[0005]Electrical service providers generally deliver electricity to their customers via power lines buried underground or distributed along poles or towers overhead. The provider's power lines are usually distributed from a power generation station to numerous sets of customer lines, so that customers can then use the power to satisfy their various electrical needs. To measure delivered power so that customers ca...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

"The present invention provides a locking apparatus for securing a watthour meter sealing ring to a watthour meter box base. The locking apparatus includes a lock and a retaining sleeve that can be easily installed onto the sealing ring without the need for special tools or keys. The lock can be easily unlocked and relocked without the use of a key. The retaining sleeve can slide in opposing axial positions and is designed to secure the lock to the sealing ring. The invention also provides a system for securing or connecting and disconnecting a plurality of structures, each with an aperture therein. The locking apparatus and system provide a simple and effective solution for securing the watthour meter sealing ring and other utility service enclosures."

Problems solved by technology

This type of lock also has to be in the “unlocked” position prior to installation; this results in operator inconvenience due to the need for having to handle multiple components simultaneously.

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