Smart electricity meter housing

Abstract

The present invention discloses a meter box for use with a utility meter. The meter housing includes a plurality of snap-fit joints assembled on the meter box, and the plurality of snap-fit joints are arranged to engage a module cover to mount the module cover on the meter housing. The module cover further includes a wire housing formed along an inner perimeter of the module cover, and the wire housing houses a wire having a first end and a second end. A metal shield placed behind the meter housing is electrically connected to a first connector. Terminals electrically connected to the metal shield are arranged to discharge current to ground. Electrical contacts electrically connected to the second end of the wire are arranged to engage the first connector to establish an electrical connection with the metal shield for discharging static electricity current sensed by the wire to ground.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to the field of electric energy metering systems and smart meters. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to a modular smart meter having an electrostatic discharge circuit built into a meter cover. Background Art

[0002] Utility meters typically measure the consumption of electricity, water, or natural gas by customers of a utility company. Smart utility meters use digital technology to measure consumption and provide a convenient way to directly transmit the usage measurement results back to the utility company in the form of digital data, without requiring a service person to visit the location of the meter and read the consumption data on a dashboard or display. Smart utility meters can use any convenient communication network, such as, for example, a wireless, wired, or cellular communication network, to send the usage measurement data back to the utility company for billing purposes. Smart meters can also transmit data regarding the operation of the meter to the utility company. Smart utility meters are also adapted to be remotely shut off to suspend the utility service provided by the utility company under certain conditions, such as to facilitate load balancing, emergency shut-off, and other service suspensions.

[0003] Power theft is a prevalent and ongoing problem. A significant portion of the total electricity generated by utility companies is lost due to unauthorized tampering with electricity meters to steal power. It is understood that users will tamper with their electricity meters, resulting in under-recording of electricity consumption by the meters, and interrupting the operation of the meters by disconnecting and / or bypassing the meters.

[0004] Smart meters have built-in anti-tampering features such that power theft can be detected and, if necessary, corrective measures can be taken. A very common method for tampering with a smart electricity meter is to subject the meter to a high-voltage discharge in the form of an electric spark. Such an electric spark is introduced by a device arranged to generate a high-voltage spark that can be applied to and discharged into the meter. To render such high-voltage sparks ineffective, an electrostatic discharge (ESD) circuit is typically provided within the meter. The ESD circuit bypasses the destructive current to ground. The ESD protection circuit is typically located in the electronics portion of the smart meter, which also houses the communication module of the smart meter. The utility company may from time to time need to upgrade / modify or change the communication module. When the communication module is upgraded, modified, or changed, the external housing needs to be removed, and this can expose the ESD circuit to the service technician.

[0005] Accordingly, there is a need for selectively maintaining a detachable communication module cover having a built-in ESD circuit that does not expose the ESD circuit to the service technician when accessing the communication module. Summary of the Invention

[0006] Some objects and advantages of the present invention will now be set forth in the following description, and other objects and advantages of the invention will be apparent from the description, or may be learned by practice of the invention.

[0007] According to an exemplary embodiment, a meter box for use with a utility meter is disclosed. The meter box includes a plurality of snap-fit joints assembled on the meter box. A module cover is configured to be mounted on the meter housing by engaging the plurality of snap-fit joints. The module cover further includes a wire housing formed along an inner perimeter of the module cover. A wire having a first end and a second end is installed within the wire housing. A metal shield is placed behind the meter housing and is electrically coupled to a first connector. A terminal electrically connected to the metal shield is configured to discharge current to ground. The meter box is further provided with an electrical contact electrically coupled to the second end of the wire. The electrical contact is configured to engage the first connector to establish an electrical connection with the metal shield for discharging an electrostatic discharge current sensed by the wire to ground. An electrical contact insulating chamber is formed within the module cover of the meter box for receiving the electrical contact. The electrical contact insulating chamber is provided with a recess.

[0008] According to another exemplary embodiment, a method for assembling a box for use with a utility meter is disclosed. The method includes providing a plurality of snap-fit joints on a meter housing and mounting a module cover on the meter housing by engaging the plurality of snap-fit joints. The module cover has a wire housing formed along an inner perimeter of the module cover. The method further includes laying a wire having a first end and a second end along the inner perimeter of the module cover within the wire housing and electrically coupling a metal shield placed behind the meter housing to a first connector. The method also includes providing a terminal electrically connected to the metal shield that is configured to discharge current to ground and providing an electrical contact electrically coupled to the second end of the wire that is configured to engage the first connector to establish an electrical connection with the metal shield for discharging an electrostatic discharge current sensed by the wire to ground. Finally, the method provides forming an electrical contact insulating chamber within the module cover, wherein the insulating chamber provides a recess for receiving the electrical contact.

[0009] According to another exemplary embodiment, a metering system is provided. The metering system includes a communication module and an instrument housing. The communication module is configured to transmit and receive data from a network power grid. The instrument housing includes a plurality of snap-fit joints. The metering system also provides a module cover configured to shield the communication module and is mounted on the instrument box by engaging the plurality of snap-fit joints. The module cover has a wire housing formed along the inner periphery of the module cover. The metering system also provides a wire having a first end and a second end installed within the wire housing. A metal shield is placed behind the instrument housing and is electrically connected to a first connector through the tail end of a spring. The metering system also has a terminal configured to discharge current to ground and electrically connected to the metal shield, and an electrical contact electrically connected to the second end of the wire. The electrical contact is configured to engage the first connector to establish an electrical connection with the metal shield for discharging the electrostatic discharge current sensed by the wire to ground. In addition, an electrical contact insulating chamber is formed within the module cover for accommodating the electrical contact, and the electrical contact insulating chamber has a recess.

[0010] Other technical features will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the following drawings, description, and claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0011] The drawings also illustrate the present invention and, together with the detailed description of the invention, are used to explain the principles of the invention, where like reference numerals refer to the same or functionally similar elements throughout the separate views and are incorporated into the specification and form a part of the specification.

[0012] Figure 1A An intelligent meter according to an exemplary embodiment is shown;

[0013] Figure 1B An exploded view of an intelligent meter according to an exemplary embodiment is shown;

[0014] Figure 2 Shown is according to an exemplary embodiment Figure 1A An isometric view of the shown intelligent meter, which has an instrument housing, a metal shield, a communication module, and a base;

[0015] Figure 3A An isometric view of a communication module cover according to an exemplary embodiment is shown;

[0016] Figure 3B A cross-sectional view of a communication module cover according to an exemplary embodiment is shown;

[0017] Figure 4 An isometric view of an electrostatic discharge circuit formed within an intelligent meter according to an exemplary embodiment is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0018] These figures (discussed below) and the various embodiments used to describe the principles of the present invention in this patent document are provided by way of illustration only and should not be construed as limiting the scope of the present invention in any way. Those skilled in the art will understand that the principles of the present invention can be implemented in any type of suitably arranged device or system.

[0019] The disclosed embodiments relate to metering systems and methods for monitoring the consumption of a commodity such as electricity. It should be understood that the systems and methods described herein can be implemented in systems for monitoring the consumption of other commodities such as, for example, water or natural gas. In one embodiment, the metering system can include a plurality of meters communicatively connected to a head-end system. Such a connection can be a physical connection such as a cable, a wireless RF connection, or other convenient communication means between the meter and the head-end system.

[0020] The increasing demand for electrical energy and the use of limited resources in electrical energy production have led to the use of more and more technologies in the production, transmission, distribution, and consumption of electrical energy in order to manufacture, distribute, and use electrical energy more efficiently and intelligently. To this end, utility service providers, i.e., utility companies, have begun to adopt information technology systems integrated with their electrical energy generation, transmission, distribution, and metering systems to enable more effective monitoring and operation of such systems.

[0021] The smart meter is capable of sending notifications to the control system. During communication, the control system will be used to record and log various events, errors, and / or warnings in the plurality of meters. These events, errors, and / or warnings can be recorded in a table and stored in the meter memory. These tables can be accessed and / or sent to the control system for verification.

[0022] Figure 1A A smart meter 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. The smart meter 100 can include a meter housing 102, a communication module 104, a communication module cover 106, a plurality of terminals 108, a terminal cover 110, and a base 112. The communication module 104 can form the upper part of the smart meter 100. The communication module 104 can be implemented as a removable unit that is arranged to communicate inside and outside the communication perimeter of the smart meter 100. Outside the communication perimeter, the communication module 104 can use a wide area network (WAN) to transmit and receive data regarding meter readings to and from the utility company. Inside or within the perimeter, the communication module 104 can use a local area network (LAN) to communicate with other smart meters located within the communication perimeter. The communication module 104 can communicate using wireless technology via the WAN or the LAN.

[0023] The communication module 104 can be used for remote meter reading at configurable intervals, such as time-of-day metering and prepaid service delivery that enables the meter to operate on a rechargeable basis. The communication module can also be used for messaging of alarm events, remote load connection, demand-based disconnection, remote firmware upgrade, integration with utility software for billing collection, importing legacy data from existing models, and finally security features. The communication module 104 can accurately maintain system time synchronization across all functions to ensure data accuracy. The communication module 104 can also support the handoff of the smart meter to smart grid functions such as power outage management systems, distribution automation including self-healing systems, distribution transformer monitoring units, distributed energy, and multiple executable applications. The communication infrastructure used by the communication module 104 can also include, but is not limited to, RF mesh networks / PLCs or cellular networks or combinations thereof. The communication network can be based on suitable standards popular in the industry.

[0024] The lower portion of the smart meter 100 can include a terminal box having a plurality of terminals 108 and a terminal cover 110. The plurality of terminals 108 can be used to establish phase connections. Phase wiring can be connected to the terminals for establishing phase connections. The terminal cover 110 encapsulates the plurality of terminals 108 and the metal wiring, thereby protecting these components from any unauthorized access. The terminal cover 110 can be hinged at the bottom of the middle portion of the smart meter 100. The base 112 forms the lower housing of the smart meter, and all meter components are configured to be housed within the base 112.

[0025] In Figure 1B the exploded view of the smart meter 100 in Figure 1B the depicted exploded view shows the base 112, the plurality of terminals 108, the communication module 104, the metal shield 114, the communication module cover 106, the circuit board 116, and the meter box 102.

[0026] The base 112 can form a housing within which the communication module 104 can be accommodated. The base 112 can protect the communication module 104 from damage. The base 112 also has mounting means that can be used to mount the smart meter to a wall, pole, or any convenient mounting device. The base 112 is typically fastened to the rear portion of the meter housing 102.

[0027] Various design changes can be made to the base 112 to enable the smart meter to be mounted in multiple ways at multiple locations. The base 112 can be provided with a plurality of slots, holes, or other perforations that are required to effectively mount the smart meter in a desired mounting area using various forms of mounting methods employing fasteners.

[0028] As Figure 1BAs shown, the smart meter 100 includes a plurality of printed circuit boards. At least one multi-layer electronic circuit board 116 can be installed through a socket on the base 112 of the smart meter 100 and can be oriented in a vertical plane. The electronic board 116 includes various components responsible for the functions of the smart meter.

[0029] The electronic board 116 is installed inside the base and behind the metal shield 114. The electronic board 116 as used herein is for measuring the power consumption at the service location (such as a user's home or commercial enterprise) where the smart meter 100 is installed.

[0030] The electronic board 116 is further arranged to send data on the electrical energy consumed by the user to a communication module for transmission to the utility. The electronic board 116 is protected from access by a seal which is configured to record the breaking of the seal and report such tampering to the utility company via the communication module 104.

[0031] The metal shield 114 can be connected to the base 112 via screws and snap-fit joints. The metal shield 114 is further arranged to protect the circuit board 116 and other electronic components from any externally applied forces. The meter housing 102 is assembled on the metal shield 114 and attached to the base 112. Thus, the meter housing 102 covers the metal shield 114 and also prevents any access to the metal shield 114.

[0032] The meter housing 102 can be made of a transparent material and forms the topmost layer in the smart meter. The meter housing 102 can include a display screen, a dial, readings, an optical port, and a seal, as well as other required measurement equipment. The meter housing 102 can be attached to the base 114 of the smart meter 100 via snap-fit joints. Any attempt to remove the meter housing 102 without authorization may cause the breaking of the snap-fit joints, resulting in damage to the smart meter 100 itself.

[0033] Figure 2 An isometric view of the smart meter 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Figure 2 The meter housing 102, the communication module 104, the communication module cover 106, and a plurality of snap-fit joints 2088 are shown.

[0034] As previously explained, the meter housing 102 is attached to the base 112 and forms a flush external housing of the smart meter. The meter housing 102 covers the metal shield 114, the circuit board 116, and all other internal components of the smart meter and their connections. The meter housing 102 can have various structural elements formed thereon according to the requirements of the utility company, such as for example, dial readings, a display, or connector ports.

[0035] The instrument housing 102 is attached to the base 112 using a plurality of mounting members. As used herein, a "mounting member" refers to any sealing feature structure that enables the instrument housing 102 to be coupled and / or sealed to the base 112, including protrusions, projections, and / or recessed feature structures. The communication module cover 106 is configured to surround the communication module 104 such that it may not be accessible. The communication module cover 106 is detachably coupled to the instrument housing 102 by a plurality of snap-fit joints 208.

[0036] The operator can detach the communication module cover 106 to gain access to the communication module 104 in order to obtain data, upgrade the communication module 104, or perform any modifications to the module. The plurality of snap-fit joints 208 are configured to disengage from the instrument housing 102, thereby allowing the communication module cover 106 to be separated from and removed from the instrument housing. The operator removes the communication module cover 106 from the instrument by releasing the snap-fit joints 208 from the corresponding cavities formed within the instrument housing.

[0037] The instrument cover 106 forms an integral shell that is used to provide a form-fitting tamper-proof cover. The instrument cover 106 may also be provided with locking devices to prevent unauthorized access to the communication module. However, the communication module can still be easily tampered with by introducing a discharge in the form of a spark introduced on or around the communication module cover 106. Such a discharge can hinder the operation of the meter components or the communication module.

[0038] Figure 3A The inner side 150 of the communication module cover 106 is shown. The inner side 150 of the communication module cover 106 includes wires 120, a wire housing 122, a plurality of grooves 124, and a plurality of locks 126. The communication module cover 106 is installed and removed with the help of snap-fit joints 132 provided therein. When the communication module cover 106 is installed on the instrument housing 102, the snap-fit joints 132 engage with the snaps provided in the instrument box.

[0039] The communication module cover 106 may also be provided with bolt sockets 152 for securely bolting the communication module to the instrument housing 102. The communication module cover 106 is further provided with a wire housing 122 formed within its inner periphery. The wire housing 122 is formed as a groove along the inner periphery, thereby establishing a path for the wires 120.

[0040] The wire housing 122 consists of a top portion including a shoulder projection and a bottom portion having a plurality of grooves 124. The shoulder projection fits into the plurality of grooves 124 to couple the top portion to the bottom portion. The wires 120 are placed in and received by the wire housing 122, and the wires extend from the left side wall 128 to the right side wall 130 of the wire housing. A plurality of locks 126 are provided within the wire housing 122. The plurality of locks 126 and the plurality of grooves 124 prevent the movement of the wires 120 placed within the wire housing 122.

[0041] The wire 120 is installed within the wire housing 122, starting from the left sidewall 128 of the communication module cover 106 and extending along the wire housing 122 to the right hand sidewall 130. The wire 120 is then placed into the electrical contact insulating chamber 134. The wire 120 forms part of an ESD path for discharging current to ground.

[0042] As Figure 3B best seen, the electrical contact insulating chamber 134 may be formed at the end portion 156 of the right hand sidewall 130 of the communication module cover 106. Alternatively, the electrical contact insulating chamber 134 may also be formed at the end of the right hand sidewall 130. However, in this assembly, the wire 120 is installed within the communication module cover 106 starting from the right hand sidewall 130 of the communication module cover 106. Thus, the electrical contact insulating chamber 134 may be formed at either end of the sidewall 128 or the sidewall 130.

[0043] The electrical contact insulating chamber 134 includes a first elongated track 144 and a second elongated track 146 as well as a substrate 148. The elongated tracks 144 and 146 are formed as side boundaries of the electrical contact insulating chamber 134. The substrate 148 of the electrical contact insulating chamber 134 includes a non-conductive C-shaped plate having a bottom surface, a top surface, and side surfaces. The tracks 144 and 146 may be configured to receive the substrate 148. The substrate 148 may be configured to slide vertically within the tracks 144 and 146. The tracks 144 and 146 allow for forward and backward movement of the substrate 148 as well as movement of the electrical contact portion 136. The substrate 148 may be constructed of any electrically insulating material. When the communication module cover 106 is installed on the instrument box 102, the substrate 148 guides the electrical contact portion 136 by moving the electrical contact or working with the electrical contact.

[0044] The substrate 148 is formed within the tracks such that the substrate may extend outwardly from the tracks 144 and 148. The electrical contact insulating chamber 134 houses the electrical contact portion 136 as Figure 3B shown. As shown, the electrical contact insulating chamber 134 is formed as a protrusion from the communication module cover 106, where the piece 140 protrudes outwardly from the communication module 104.

[0045] More specifically, the electrical contact portion 136 formed at one end of the wire 120 is housed within the substrate 148 of the electrical contact insulating chamber 134. The substrate 148 is formed to cover the electrical contact portion 136. The electrical contact insulating chamber 134 prevents any form of access to the electrical contact portion 136 by an authorized service technician or by any other operator. When the communication module cover 104 is installed within the instrument box 102, the substrate 148 guides the horizontal movement of the electrical contact portion 136 such that the electrical contact portion 136 moves vertically backward.

[0046] When the communication module cover 106 is installed on the instrument housing 102, the electrical contact insulation chamber 134 is configured to pass through the instrument housing 102 and engage with the metal shield 114. The electrical contact insulation chamber 134 passes through the instrument housing 102 and extends the electrical contact portion 136 into the metal shield 114.

[0047] The electrical contact portion 136 is shown as a structure formed at one end of the wire 120. However, the electrical contact portion 136 can also be formed as a separate structure that is electrically connected to the end of the wire 120. In such a configuration, the electrical connection of the wire 120 and the wire 120 is formed within the electrical contact insulation chamber 134. The electrical contact portion 136 includes a helical spring and a tail end 138. The helical spring that forms part of the electrical contact portion 136 is received within a recess formed in the substrate 148, which is molded within the substrate 148 of the electrical contact insulation chamber 134.

[0048] The tail end 138 is formed at the edge of the substrate 148 as the end of the helical spring. The helical spring is configured to be compressed when the communication module cover 106 is installed on the instrument box 102. The substrate 148 can be configured to slide within the tracks 144 and 146 as the helical spring moves.

[0049] Figure 4 An electrostatic discharge circuit according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. The electrostatic discharge circuit is composed of the wire 120, the electrical contact portion 136, the first connector 140, the metal shield 114, and the terminal 142. As described above, the wire 120 and the electrical contact portion 136 are received within the communication module cover 106.

[0050] The metal shield 114 as described above is positioned behind the instrument cover 102. The metal shield is further electrically connected to the ground terminal 142. When the communication module cover 106 is installed on the instrument housing 102, the electrical contact insulation chamber 134 extends to the first connector 140. The electrical contact insulation chamber 134 passes through the instrument housing 102 such that the tail end 138 can establish contact with the first connector 140.

[0051] The first connector 140 is electrically connected to the metal shield 114. In another embodiment, the first connector can be welded to the metal shield 114. The first connector 140 can be located on the side of the metal shield such that it engages with the tail end 138 of the helical spring connected to the electrical contact portion 136. When the communication module cover is installed on the instrument housing 102, the first connector 140 engages with the tail end 138. Various modifications can be made to the metal shield 114 such that the first connector 140 establishes a lasting contact with the tail end 138.

[0052] When the communication module cover 106 is installed on the meter housing 102, the helical spring of the electrical contact portion 136 is configured to apply elastic force on the tail end 138. Therefore, the tail end 138 applies pressure on the first connector 140, thereby establishing a lasting connection between the wire 120 and the metal shield 114.

[0053] The ground terminal 142 is connected to the ground. The ground terminal 142 connected to the metal shield 114 forms the last structural element of the electrostatic discharge path. In particular, during a tampering event, any discharge transmitted into the meter may generate a voltage large enough to damage the internal circuit (i.e., the circuit board) on the meter or consume enough electrical energy to cause an electrothermal failure in the meter.

[0054] Such failures may include contact spikes, silicon melting, or metal interconnect melting. Therefore, the electrostatic discharge circuit provided in the present disclosure will ground any unwanted high-voltage potential induced into the meter from an external source. The disclosed ESD circuit effectively and safely bypasses the externally applied high-voltage potential to the ground, thereby protecting the meter from such destructive attacks.

[0055] The present disclosure relates to a modular electrostatic discharge circuit divided into three parts (the wire 120 formed within the wire housing 122, the metal shield 114, and the terminal 142). This electrostatic discharge circuit provides an easy discharge path for any externally applied voltage.

[0056] Therefore, the present disclosure provides an ESD circuit that is equipped to protect smart meters and also provides a two-part construction that facilitates access to the communication module. The present disclosure helps to provide a compact, robust, and at the same time modular meter box. The live wire as the ESD circuit is not safe when accessing the field communication module.

[0057] The proposed disclosure that isolates the live wire together with the spring through the isolation feature generated by the plastic part boundary provides a safe working environment for the operator. The present invention provides substantial manufacturing cost savings in the form of reduced and optimized materials, man-hours, and assembly operations. In addition, the present disclosure provides a reliable and simple modular arrangement in which the operator accessing the communication module is safe and not exposed to any part of the ESD circuit.

[0058] The prior art arrangements disclose fixed or non-modular meter housings and covers and do not address the problem of providing a safe structure for an unexposed ESD circuit within the meter. The circuit connection of the wire in the communication module is completed by the design itself, i.e., when the communication module cover is installed on the meter housing.

[0059] The specific values and configurations discussed in these non-limiting examples may vary and are cited only to illustrate one or more embodiments and are not intended to limit their scope.

[0060] However, the subject matter can be embodied in a variety of different forms, and thus the subject matter covered or claimed is intended to be construed as not limited to any of the exemplary embodiments listed herein; the exemplary embodiments are provided merely for illustration.

[0061] Likewise, the subject matter claimed or covered is intended to have a suitably broad scope. Among other things, the subject matter can be embodied specifically as a method, apparatus, component, or system. Thus, the embodiments can take, for example, the form of hardware, software, firmware, or a combination thereof. Accordingly, the following detailed description is not intended to be construed in a limiting sense.

[0062] Throughout the specification and claims, unless the meaning is explicitly stated otherwise, terms may have nuanced meanings that are presented or implied in the context. Likewise, phrases such as "in one embodiment" or "in an exemplary embodiment" and variations thereof as used herein may not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, and phrases such as "in another embodiment" or "in another exemplary embodiment" and variations thereof as used herein may or may not necessarily refer to different embodiments. For example, the claimed subject matter is intended to include, in whole or in part, combinations of the exemplary embodiments.

[0063] Generally speaking, terms can be understood, at least in part, from their usage in context. For example, terms such as "and," "or," or "and / or" as used herein can include a variety of meanings that may, at least in part, depend on the context in which such terms are used. Generally speaking, "or" if used to relate a list, such as A, B, or C, is intended to mean A, B, and C as used inclusively herein, as well as A, B, or C as used exclusively herein.

[0064] In addition, the term "one or more" as used herein, depending at least in part on context, can be used to describe any feature, structure, or characteristic in a singular sense, or can be used to describe a combination of features, structures, or characteristics in a plural sense. Similarly, terms such as "a," "an," or "the" are likewise, at least in part, context-dependent and can be understood to convey a singular usage or to express a plural usage. In addition, the term "based on" can be understood to not necessarily be intended to convey a set of exclusive factors, but can, at least in part, depend on the context and allow for additional factors that are not necessarily explicitly described again.

[0065] Although the preferred embodiments have been shown and described, various modifications and substitutions can be made thereto without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Accordingly, it should be understood that the invention has been described by way of illustration rather than limitation.

[0066] Specific implementation examples

[0067] While the following is described in conjunction with specific embodiments, it should be understood that the description is intended to illustrate and not limit the scope of the foregoing description and the appended claims.

[0068] A first embodiment of the present invention is a meter box for use with a utility meter, the meter box comprising: a meter housing including a plurality of snap-fit joints assembled to the meter box; a module cover configured to be mounted on the meter housing by engaging the plurality of snap-fit joints, the module cover having a wire housing formed along an inner perimeter of the module cover; a wire mounted within the wire housing and having a first end and a second end; a metal shield placed under the meter housing, the metal shield being electrically connected to a first connector; and a terminal electrically connected to the metal shield and configured to discharge current to ground. An electrical contact portion is provided, the electrical contact portion being electrically connected to the second end of the wire and configured to engage the first connector to establish an electrical connection with the metal shield for discharging an electrostatic discharge current sensed by the wire to ground; and an electrical contact insulating chamber is formed within the module cover for receiving the electrical contact portion, the electrical contact insulating chamber having a recess. An embodiment of the present invention is one, any, or all of the previous embodiments in this paragraph to the first embodiment in this paragraph, wherein the electrical contact portion is configured to protrude from the module cover, the electrical contact portion comprising: a helical spring received within the recess, the helical spring being electrically connected to the second end of the wire; and a tail end connected to the helical spring. An embodiment of the present invention is one, any, or all of the previous embodiments in this paragraph to the first embodiment in this paragraph, wherein the helical spring is configured to apply a spring force to the tail end when the module cover is mounted on the meter box. An embodiment of the present invention is one, any, or all of the previous embodiments in this paragraph to the first embodiment in this paragraph, wherein the tail end makes contact with the first connector to transfer the electrostatic current discharge to the terminal. An embodiment of the present invention is one, any, or all of the previous embodiments in this paragraph to the first embodiment in this paragraph, wherein the module cover is detachable from the meter housing by the snap-fit joints. An embodiment of the present invention is one, any, or all of the previous embodiments in this paragraph to the first embodiment in this paragraph, wherein the electrical contact portion disengages when the module cover is detached from the meter housing. An embodiment of the present invention is one, any, or all of the previous embodiments in this paragraph to the first embodiment in this paragraph, wherein the recess formed in the electrical contact insulating chamber extends from the second end of the wire to the tail end. An embodiment of the present invention is one, any, or all of the previous embodiments in this paragraph to the first embodiment in this paragraph, wherein the wire housing is provided with a plurality of grooves and a plurality of locks. An embodiment of the present invention is one, any, or all of the previous embodiments in this paragraph to the first embodiment in this paragraph, wherein the plurality of grooves and the plurality of locks prevent movement of the wire.

[0069] A second embodiment of the present invention is a method for assembling a box for use with a utility meter, the method comprising: providing a plurality of snap-fit joints on a meter housing; mounting a module cover on the meter housing by engaging the plurality of snap-fit joints, the module cover having a wire housing formed along an inner perimeter of the module cover; laying a wire having a first end and a second end along the inner perimeter of the module cover within the wire housing; electrically coupling a metal shield disposed under the meter housing to a first connector; and providing a terminal electrically connected to the metal shield and configured to discharge current to ground. The method further provides an electrical contact portion electrically coupled to the second end of the wire, the electrical contact portion being configured to engage the first connector to establish an electrical connection with the metal shield for discharging an electrostatic discharge current sensed by the wire to ground; and forming an electrical contact insulating chamber within the module cover, the insulating chamber providing a recess for receiving the electrical contact portion. An embodiment of the present invention is one, any, or all of the previous embodiments in this paragraph to the second embodiment in this paragraph, wherein the step of providing the electrical contact portion includes providing a helical spring received within the recess, the helical spring being electrically connected to the second end of the wire; and attaching a tail end to the helical spring. An embodiment of the present invention is one, any, or all of the previous embodiments in this paragraph to the second embodiment in this paragraph, wherein the helical spring applies a spring force to the tail end when the module cover is mounted on the meter box. An embodiment of the present invention is one, any, or all of the previous embodiments in this paragraph to the second embodiment in this paragraph, the method further comprising removing the module cover from the meter box by releasing the plurality of snap-fit joints. An embodiment of the present invention is one, any, or all of the previous embodiments in this paragraph to the second embodiment in this paragraph, wherein removing the module cover from the meter box includes disengaging the electrical contact portion from the first connector.

[0070] A third embodiment of the present invention is a metering system, the metering system comprising: a communication module configured to transmit and receive data from a network grid; a meter box including a plurality of snap-fit joints; a module cover configured to shield the communication module and mounted on the meter box by engaging the plurality of snap-fit joints, the module cover having a wire housing formed along an inner perimeter of the module cover; a wire installed within the wire housing and having a first end and a second end; a metal shield placed under the meter box and electrically connected to a first connector. A terminal is also provided, the terminal being electrically connected to the metal shield and configured to discharge current to ground. An electrical contact portion electrically coupled to the second end of the wire, the electrical contact portion being configured to engage the first connector to establish an electrical connection with the metal shield for discharging an electrostatic discharge current sensed by the wire to ground; and an electrical contact insulating chamber formed within the module cover for receiving the electrical contact portion. An embodiment of the present invention is one, any, or all of the previous embodiments in this paragraph to the third embodiment in this paragraph, wherein the electrical contact portion is configured to protrude from the module cover, the electrical contact portion comprising: a helical spring received within a recess, the helical spring being electrically connected to the second end of the wire; and a tail end connected to the helical spring. An embodiment of the present invention is one, any, or all of the previous embodiments in this paragraph to the third embodiment in this paragraph, wherein the helical spring is configured to apply a spring force to the tail end when the module cover is mounted on the meter box. An embodiment of the present invention is one, any, or all of the previous embodiments in this paragraph to the third embodiment in this paragraph, wherein the tail end makes contact with the first connector to transfer the electrostatic discharge to the terminal. An embodiment of the present invention is one, any, or all of the previous embodiments in this paragraph to the third embodiment in this paragraph, wherein the module cover is detachable from the meter box through the snap-fit joints. An embodiment of the present invention is one, any, or all of the previous embodiments in this paragraph to the third embodiment in this paragraph, wherein the electrical contact portion disengages when the module cover is detached from the meter box.

[0071] Although no further detailed description is provided, it is believed that those skilled in the art can make the most of the present invention by using the foregoing description and can easily determine the basic features of the present invention without departing from the essence and scope of the present invention to make various changes and modifications to the present invention and adapt it to various uses and conditions. Therefore, the foregoing preferred specific embodiments should be understood as being merely illustrative and not limiting the remainder of the disclosure in any way, and are intended to cover various modifications and equivalent arrangements included within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. An instrument box for use with a utility meter, the instrument box comprising: An instrument housing (102), the instrument housing including a plurality of snap - fit joints (208) assembled on the instrument box; A module cover (106), the module cover being configured to be mounted on the instrument housing by engaging the plurality of snap - fit joints, the module cover having a wire housing (122) formed along the inner periphery of the module cover; A wire (120), the wire being installed inside the wire housing and having a first end and a second end; A metal shield (114), the metal shield being placed behind the instrument housing, the metal shield being electrically connected to a first connector (140); A terminal (142), the terminal being electrically connected to the metal shield, the terminal being configured to discharge current to the ground; An electrical contact portion (136), the electrical contact portion being electrically connected to the second end of the wire, the electrical contact portion being configured to engage the first connector to establish an electrical connection with the metal shield for discharging the electrostatic discharge current sensed by the wire to the ground; and An electrical contact insulation chamber (134), the electrical contact insulation chamber having a recess, the electrical contact insulation chamber being formed within the module cover, the recess accommodating the electrical contact portion (136).

2. The instrument box according to claim 1, wherein the electrical contact portion (136) is configured to protrude from the module cover (106), the electrical contact portion comprising: A helical spring, the helical spring being received in the recess, the helical spring being electrically connected to the second end of the wire (120); and A tail end, the tail end being connected to the helical spring.

3. The instrument box according to claim 2, wherein the helical spring is configured to apply a spring force to the tail end when the module cover (106) is mounted on the instrument box.

4. The instrument box according to claim 2, wherein the tail end makes contact with the first connector (140) to transfer the electrostatic current discharge to the terminal (142).

5. The instrument box according to claim 1, wherein the electrical contact portion (136) disengages when the module cover (106) is removed from the instrument housing (102).

6. A method for assembling an instrument box for use with a utility meter, the method comprising: Providing a plurality of snap - fit joints (208) on an instrument housing (102); Mounting a module cover (106) on the instrument housing by engaging the plurality of snap - fit joints, the module cover (106) having a wire housing (122) formed along the inner periphery of the module cover; Laying a wire (120) having a first end and a second end inside the wire housing (122); Electrically connecting a metal shield (114) placed behind the instrument housing to a first connector (140); Providing a terminal (142) electrically connected to the metal shield and configured to discharge current to the ground; Providing an electrical contact portion (136) electrically connected to the second end of the wire, the electrical contact portion being configured to engage with the first connector (140) to establish an electrical connection with the metal shield (114) for discharging an electrostatic discharge current sensed by the wire to ground; And Forming an electrical contact insulating chamber (134) within the module cover, the insulating chamber providing a recess for receiving the electrical contact portion (136).

7. The method according to claim 6, wherein the step of providing the electrical contact portion Comprises: Providing a helical spring received in the recess, the helical spring being electrically connected to the second end of the wire (120); And Attaching a tail end to the helical spring.

8. The method according to claim 7, wherein the helical spring applies a spring force to the tail end when the module cover (106) is mounted on the instrument box.

9. The method according to claim 6, the method further comprising disassembling the module cover (106) from the instrument housing (102) by releasing the plurality of snap - engagement joints.

10. The method according to claim 9, wherein disassembling the module cover (106) from the instrument housing (102) includes disengaging the electrical contact portion (136) from the first connector (140).

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