Combined electric energy meter
The self-locking pin structure enables easy fixing and disassembly of the electricity meter, solving the problem of cumbersome fixing and easy loosening of the electricity meter in the existing technology, improving the assembly efficiency and safety of the electricity meter, and making it suitable for homes and public places.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- CN202521951797.3
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Utility models(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2025-09-11
- Publication Date
- 2025-12-09
- Estimated Expiration
- 2035-09-11
Smart Images

Figure CN223650614U_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This application relates to power metering equipment, and more particularly to a combined power meter. Background Technology
[0002] Electricity meters typically consist of a top cover, end covers, and a base. Their fixing is often done with screws, which, while secure, is cumbersome, inefficient, and requires tools for maintenance, making operation inconvenient. Existing technologies have addressed this issue with assembly methods such as snap-fit structures and single-pin structures, improving ease of operation. However, these are prone to accidental unlocking due to accidental touches, vibrations, or external interference, posing risks of device detachment, internal exposure, and even electrical safety hazards. Especially in homes or public settings, children or non-professionals may inadvertently activate the device, causing damage or safety hazards. Utility Model Content
[0003] This application provides a combined energy meter that can improve the technical problem of accidental activation due to accidental touch operation in related technologies.
[0004] In a first aspect, a combined energy meter includes: a base; a top cover mounted on the base; and an end cover disposed on one side of the base and connected to the top cover, characterized in that the combined energy meter is provided with a self-locking pin structure for connecting and fixing the top cover, the end cover, and the base.
[0005] The technical solutions described above in this application embodiment have at least the following technical effects: This utility model provides a combined energy meter. By setting a self-locking pin structure between the top cover, end cover, and base, the following technical effects are achieved: Compared with the traditional energy meter structure that uses screws for fixing, the self-locking pin structure of this utility model can achieve the fixing and disassembly of components without the need for tools, simplifying the installation and maintenance process, improving assembly efficiency, and reducing labor costs. It is particularly suitable for rapid on-site deployment and subsequent replacement and maintenance scenarios. After insertion, it can automatically open and firmly lock into the inner wall of the base, effectively preventing accidental loosening caused by vibration, drops, or external interference. This overcomes the problem of accidental triggering of existing snap-fit structures, ensuring the structural stability and reliability of the device during use.
[0006] The self-locking structure prevents unauthorized personnel (such as children) from unknowingly opening the electricity meter cover, thus preventing the exposure of internal circuits. This effectively reduces the safety risks of equipment damage and electric shock, improving overall safety performance and making it suitable for high-safety-requirement applications such as homes and public places.
[0007] In some embodiments, the self-locking pin structure includes: a driving member; a connecting rod, one end of which is connected to the driving member and the other end of which passes through the top cover, end cover, and base; an elastic component, one end of which abuts against the end of the driving member near the connecting rod and the other end of which abuts against the connecting rod; two bottom locking claws, installed at the end of the connecting rod, for opening and locking against the inner wall of the base in the inserted state, thereby achieving structural locking; and a spring, disposed outside the connecting rod and abutting against the driving member.
[0008] In some embodiments, the elastic component and the drive member are rotatably connected by a limiting post.
[0009] In some embodiments, the bottom locking claw is a hook-shaped structure with an inlet ramp and a limiting shoulder, used to engage with a slot in the base and achieve locking.
[0010] In some embodiments, the top cover, end cover and base are respectively provided with through holes or grooves for the connecting rod to pass through and be positioned.
[0011] In some embodiments, the driving member is a structure that simultaneously rotates and presses. Pressing drives the elastic component to engage with the outer wall slot, and rotating the elastic component enables the connecting rod to rotate from the locked state to the released state. Attached Figure Description
[0012] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.
[0013] Figure 1 This application provides an overall structural diagram of a combined energy meter according to an embodiment of the present application.
[0014] Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the self-locking pin structure in a combined energy meter after the end cover, top cover and base are separated, according to an embodiment of this application.
[0015] Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the internal structure of a self-locking pin structure in a combined energy meter provided in this application embodiment;
[0016] Figure 4 This is a side view of a combined energy meter provided in an embodiment of this application;
[0017] Figure 5 for Figure 4A schematic diagram of the bottom locking hook of a combined energy meter in section A provided in the embodiments of this application;
[0018] Figure 6 A schematic diagram of a combined energy meter in which an elastic component is snapped into an outer wall slot, as provided in an embodiment of this application;
[0019] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of a combined energy meter in which the elastic component is disengaged from the outer wall slot, as provided in an embodiment of this application.
[0020] The following are the labeling elements in the figure:
[0021] 1. Top cover; 2. End cover; 3. Base; 4. Self-locking pin structure; 41. Drive component; 42. Elastic component; 43. Limiting post; 44. Spring; 45. Connecting rod; 46. Bottom locking claw; 47. Outer wall slot. Detailed Implementation
[0022] To make the technical problems, technical solutions, and beneficial effects to be solved by this application clearer, the following detailed description is provided in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and embodiments. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are merely illustrative and are not intended to limit the scope of this application.
[0023] Electricity meters typically consist of a top cover 1, an end cover 2, and a base 3. Their fixing is often done with screws, which, while secure, is cumbersome, inefficient, and requires tools for maintenance, making operation inconvenient. Existing technologies have addressed this issue with assembly methods such as snap-fit structures and single-pin structures, improving operational convenience. However, these are prone to accidental unlocking due to accidental touches, vibrations, or external interference, posing risks of device detachment, internal exposure, and even electrical safety hazards. Especially in homes or public settings, children or non-professionals may inadvertently activate the device, causing damage or safety hazards.
[0024] Based on this, in order to improve the problems in the related technologies, the embodiments of this application provide the following solutions.
[0025] Please refer to the following: Figures 1 to 7 This application provides a combined energy meter, including: a base 3; a top cover 1 installed on the base 3; and an end cover 2 disposed on one side of the base 3 and connected to the top cover 1. The combined energy meter is provided with a self-locking pin structure 4 for connecting and fixing the top cover 1, the end cover 2 and the base 3.
[0026] As can be seen from the above, in the combined energy meter provided in this application embodiment, the base 3 is the basic structural part of the energy meter, used to support other components and internal functional modules.
[0027] It is understandable that the top cover 1 is installed above the base 3, serving a protective and sealing function.
[0028] It is understandable that the end cap 2 is located on one side of the base 3 to cover the side and form a connection transition with the top cap 1.
[0029] Specifically, in one embodiment, during assembly, the top cover 1 is mounted above the base 3, and the end cover 2 is located on the side and connected to the top cover 1. Subsequently, by inserting the self-locking pin structure 4, the top cover 1, end cover 2, and base 3 can be passed through simultaneously, and automatic locking is achieved after insertion, firmly fixing the entire housing structure and forming a completely enclosed electricity meter casing. This connection method requires no screws or tools; it locks upon insertion and can be released via a special operation during disassembly, facilitating later maintenance.
[0030] In some embodiments, please refer to the following: Figures 3 to 7 The self-locking pin structure 4 includes: a driving member 41; a connecting rod 45, one end of which is connected to the driving member 41 and the other end of which passes through the top cover 1, the end cover 2 and the base 3; it also includes an elastic component 42, one end of which abuts against the end of the driving member 41 near the connecting rod 45 and the other end of which abuts against the connecting rod 45; two bottom locking claws 46, which are installed at the end of the connecting rod 45 and are used to open and lock against the inner wall of the base 3 in the inserted state, thereby achieving structural locking; and a spring 44, which is disposed outside the connecting rod 45 and abuts against the driving member 41.
[0031] It can be understood that the driving element 41 refers to the operating element used to control the movement of the latch structure, which can provide driving force in the form of pressing or rotating, thereby triggering the connection and release process.
[0032] It is understandable that the connecting rod 45 is the core transmission component in the self-locking structure. One end is connected to the driving component 41, and the other end passes through the top cover 1, the end cover 2 and the base 3, realizing the mechanical connection between multiple components.
[0033] It can be understood that the elastic component 42 is located between the drive component 41 and the connecting rod 45 to provide continuous elastic force so that the pin structure forms a lock when inserted, ensuring the locking effect.
[0034] It can be understood that spring 44 is sleeved on the outside of connecting rod 45, used to cooperate with drive component 41, to provide return or elastic buffer function, and to assist in the reset or smooth operation of drive component 41.
[0035] Specifically, in one embodiment, the user applies a pressing operation through the drive member 41, causing the drive member 41 to drive the connecting rod 45 to move axially. During this process, the elastic component 42, located between the drive member 41 and the connecting rod 45, is compressed and stores energy. When the pin structure is fully inserted into the top cover 1, end cover 2, and base 3, the bottom locking claw 46 at the end of the connecting rod 45 automatically opens under the action of the elastic component and engages with the inner wall of the base 3 to form a firm lock. The external spring 44 structure further assists in the positioning and rebound of the drive member 41. When unlocking, the drive member 41 needs to be rotated first. The drive member 41 has a limiting post 43, which is rotatably connected to the elastic component 42. Rotating the drive member 41 causes the elastic component 42 to disengage from the outer wall slot 47. Since the spring 44 is compressed when locked, it now provides an upward preload. At this time, pressing the bottom locking claw 46 again, under the action of the spring 44 preload, can unlock the device, ensuring a smooth insertion and removal process with a clear feel.
[0036] In some embodiments, please refer to the following: Figures 3 to 7 The elastic component 42 and the driving component 41 are rotatably connected by a limiting post 43.
[0037] In this structure, the elastic component 42 and the driving component 41 are not fixedly connected, but are rotatably connected by the limiting post 43. In this way, when the driving component 41 rotates or deviates by a certain angle, the elastic component 42 can rotate accordingly under the guidance of the limiting post 43, avoiding rigid interference.
[0038] This design allows the drive component 41 to operate at a more natural angle during operation, improving the feel and smoothness of operation. At the same time, the limiting post 43 can physically limit and center the elastic component 42, ensuring the accurate direction of the elastic force and making the pin structure more stable and controllable.
[0039] In some embodiments, please refer to the following: Figures 3 to 7 The bottom locking claw 46 has a hook-shaped structure with an inlet ramp and a limiting shoulder, which is used to engage with the slot in the base 3 and achieve locking.
[0040] It is understandable that the bottom locking claw 46 is a structural component located at the end of the connecting rod 45. Its function is to mechanically lock the connection structure after the pin structure is inserted, in cooperation with the structure of the base 3, to prevent the connection structure from loosening.
[0041] It is understandable that the guide slope is an inclined surface designed at the front end of the claw, which is used to cooperate with the edge of the base 3 slot during the insertion process, guide the claw to smoothly enter the target position, and compress and avoid it to reduce resistance.
[0042] Specifically, in one embodiment, when the latch structure is driven to be inserted into the energy meter structure, the bottom locking claw 46 first contacts the edge of the slot in the base 3 through its guide ramp. During continuous insertion, the guide ramp guides the claw to retract inward and pass through the slot boundary; when the insertion is completed, the claw opens under the action of elasticity or restoring force, and its limiting shoulder engages inside the slot, forming a firm mechanical lock with the base 3, preventing the connecting structure from sliding out in the opposite direction, thereby achieving the locking function.
[0043] In some embodiments, please refer to the following: Figures 3 to 7 The top cover 1, end cover 2 and base 3 are respectively provided with through holes for the connecting rod 45 to pass through and be positioned. The top cover 1, end cover 2 and base 3 are fixed from top to bottom by a self-locking pin structure 4.
[0044] It can be understood that a through hole refers to a through hole or through structure provided on the top cover 1, end cover 2, and base 3, penetrating the walls of the three components and allowing the connecting rod 45 to pass through from top to bottom. This hole not only serves as a channel but also for the mating and positioning of the connecting rod 45 with the housing, ensuring accurate positioning and stable posture when the pin structure is inserted.
[0045] It is understandable that the assembly direction of the pin structure is clearly defined from top to bottom, that is, it is inserted from top to bottom, which is used to ensure the sequential assembly and operation logic of the structure, and facilitates on-site installation or quick positioning.
[0046] Specifically, in one embodiment, during use, the top cover 1, end cover 2, and base 3 are pre-set with aligned through holes. The connecting rod 45 passes through the holes of the three components sequentially from top to bottom. During this process, the rod and the hole wall form a positioning fit, ensuring that the pin is accurately aligned axially and smoothly pushed in. After insertion, the connecting rod 45, in conjunction with the self-locking structure, fixes the three components together, so that the top cover 1 and end cover 2 fit tightly against the base 3, forming a stable shell structure, achieving the effect of connection without additional fasteners.
[0047] In some embodiments, please refer to the following: Figures 3 to 7 The driving component 41 is a structure that can be either a knob or a press. The pressing driving elastic component 42 is engaged with the outer wall slot 47. The rotation driving elastic component 42 acts on the connecting rod 45 to rotate from the locked state to the released state.
[0048] See attached Figure 3 , attached Figure 6 , attached Figure 7 The elastic component 42 itself is an elastic element, and in the attached Figure 3In its current state, the elastic component 42 is placed within the self-locking pin structure 4, and one end of the elastic component 42 is rotatably engaged with the limiting post 43 on the driving member 41. The limiting post 43 is eccentrically positioned relative to the central axis of the driving member 41. After assembly, the elastic component 42 is in a radially pre-tightened state, with its free end facing the inner wall of the self-locking pin structure 4, which has an outer wall groove 47. The driving member 41 abuts against the spring 44 used for reset.
[0049] An axial pressing force is applied to the driving component 41, causing it to move along its axis. When the free end of the elastic component 42 aligns with the outer wall groove 47, due to the preload and elasticity of the elastic component 42, the free end of the elastic component 42 springs outward toward the outer wall groove 47, embeds itself into the outer wall groove 47, and engages with the side wall of the outer wall groove 47, thereby locking the driving component 41 in the pressing position. At the same time, the spring 44 used for reset is compressed, as shown in the attached figure. Figure 6 The state shown.
[0050] It is understandable that the push-button or knob structure means that the drive component 41 can be triggered by pressing in the vertical direction or rotated around its axis, providing a multi-functional input method to meet different action requirements.
[0051] It can be understood that the elastic component 42 engaging with the outer wall slot 47 means that when the elastic component 42 is pressed, it will move and engage with the outer wall slot 47, so that the structure is kept in a certain stable state or position.
[0052] It can be understood that rotating from the locked state to the released state means that when unlocking, the drive component 41 needs to be rotated first. The drive component 41 has a limiting post 43, which is rotatably connected to the elastic component 42. Rotating the drive component 41 causes the elastic component 42 to disengage from the outer wall slot 47. Since the spring 44 is compressed when locked, it now provides an upward preload. At this time, pressing the bottom locking claw 46 will unlock the device under the preload of the spring 44.
[0053] Furthermore, in the pressed state, the driving component 41 is subjected to rotation about its axis. Because the limiting post 43 is eccentrically positioned relative to the axis, during rotation, the limiting post 43 moves in an arc trajectory relative to the self-locking pin structure 4. Through its rotational engagement with the elastic component 42, it drives the elastic component 42 to rotate inward. When the limiting post 43 rotates to a lower position, the elastic component 42 also rotates to a lower position. When the free end of the elastic component 42 just exits the outer wall slot 47 and releases the locking state, the spring force of the spring 44 used for reset will axially reset the driving component 41 to its initial position, as shown in the attached diagram. Figure 7 The state shown.
[0054] Specifically, in one embodiment, when the user presses down on the drive component 41, the internal elastic component 42 moves under force and engages with the slot 47 on the outer wall of the housing. This engagement mechanism can achieve structural positioning, state maintenance, or feedback confirmation, ensuring that the drive action is in place and preventing accidental rebound.
[0055] When the user rotates the drive component 41, the elastic component 42 rotates together with the drive component 41, and the torque transmitted by it acts on the connecting rod 45, causing the connecting rod 45 to rotate from the locked state to the released state. This rotation controls the posture change of the pawl, thereby unlocking or removing the latch structure. This spin-pressing combined operation allows the user to control the latch state with different action modes, enhancing flexibility and human-machine interaction. The above is only a preferred embodiment of this application and is not intended to limit this application. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, and improvements made within the spirit and principles of this application should be included within the protection scope of this application.
Claims
1. A combined energy meter, comprising: Base (3); The top cover (1) is installed above the base (3); the end cover (2) is located on one side of the base (3) and connected to the top cover (1). The combined energy meter is characterized by having a self-locking pin structure (4) for connecting and fixing the top cover (1), the end cover (2) and the base (3).
2. The combined energy meter according to claim 1, characterized in that, The self-locking pin structure (4) includes: a driving member (41); a connecting rod (45), one end of which is connected to the driving member (41), and the other end of which passes through the top cover (1), the end cover (2), and the base (3); it also includes an elastic component (42), one end of which abuts against the end of the driving member (41) near the connecting rod (45), and the other end of which abuts against the connecting rod (45); two bottom locking claws (46), which are installed at the end of the connecting rod (45) and are used to open and lock against the inner wall of the base (3) in the inserted state, thereby realizing structural locking; and a spring (44), which is set outside the connecting rod (45) and abuts against the driving member (41).
3. The combined energy meter according to claim 2, characterized in that, The elastic component (42) and the driving component (41) are rotatably connected by a limiting post (43).
4. The combined energy meter according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that, The bottom locking claw (46) is a hook-shaped structure with an inlet ramp and a limiting shoulder, used to engage with the through hole on the base (3) and achieve locking.
5. The combined energy meter according to claim 2, characterized in that, The top cover (1), end cover (2) and base (3) are respectively provided with through holes for the connecting rod (45) to pass through and be positioned. The top cover (1), end cover (2) and base (3) are combined from top to bottom by a self-locking pin structure (4).
6. The combined energy meter according to claim 2, characterized in that, The drive member (41) drives the elastic component (42) to engage with the outer wall slot (47) by pressing, and drives the elastic component (42) to disengage from the outer wall slot (47) by rotating, so as to switch from the locked state to the released state.