Meter network port sealing device and smart meter

Abstract

The application belongs to the technical field of electric meter, and particularly relates to an electric meter network port sealing device and an intelligent electric meter. The electric meter network port sealing device comprises a shell, a network port and a clamping part protrudingly arranged at the network port are arranged on the shell, a cover piece, the cover piece covers the network port in a closed state, the cover piece is rotatably installed on the shell through a rotating connecting part, the cover piece comprises a sealing part for sealing the network port and a foldable folding part, and when the cover piece rotates from the closed state to an open state, an action force opposite to the opening rotating direction of the folding part is applied to the folding part, the folding part is bent, and the folding part and the clamping part are clamped with each other, so that the cover piece is maintained in a stable open position. The electric meter network port sealing device can effectively solve the problem that the cover piece is prone to tilting during testing, and has the advantages of simple structure, convenient operation and low cost.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application belongs to the field of electricity meter technology, specifically relating to an electricity meter network port sealing device and a smart meter. Background Technology

[0002] In smart meter applications, the network port on the casing is typically sealed with a rubber plug. However, this plug needs to be removed during network function testing.

[0003] However, once opened, the rubber stopper cannot be secured by itself and is prone to tipping over, which not only interferes with the testing process but also affects efficiency. Utility Model Content

[0004] The purpose of this application is to solve the technical problems in related technologies, such as the rubber stopper not being able to fix itself, being easy to tip over, interfering with testing operations, and affecting efficiency.

[0005] The first aspect of this application provides a sealing device for an electricity meter grid port, comprising: a housing having a grid port and a retaining portion protruding from the grid port; and a cover member that covers the grid port in a closed state. The cover member is rotatably mounted on the housing via a rotating connecting portion, and includes a sealing portion for sealing the grid port and a folding portion that can be bent relative to each other. When the cover member rotates from a closed state to an open state, a force opposite to its opening rotation direction is applied to the folding portion, causing the folding portion to bend and engage with the retaining portion, thereby maintaining the cover member in a stable open position.

[0006] In one exemplary embodiment of this application, the folding portion and the sealing portion are integrally formed, and a weak structure that is easy to bend is provided at the connection between the two.

[0007] In one exemplary embodiment of this application, the retaining portion is configured such that its cross-sectional area gradually decreases along the movement direction in which the folding portion engages with the retaining portion.

[0008] In one exemplary embodiment of this application, a limiting structure that cooperates with the cover and the housing when closed is further provided.

[0009] In one exemplary embodiment of this application, the limiting structure includes a groove disposed on the folding portion and a retaining portion disposed on the housing. When the cover is in a closed state, the retaining portion and the groove cooperate with each other.

[0010] In one exemplary embodiment of this application, the mesh opening on the housing is a stepped connecting hole; the outer edge of the sealing part extends outward to form a sealing edge, and when the covering member is in a closed state, the sealing edge completely covers the stepped connecting hole.

[0011] In one exemplary embodiment of this application, the cover further includes an extension extending away from the folded portion, and a corresponding slot is provided on the housing; when the cover is in a closed state, the extension covers the slot and maintains an operating gap around the slot so that the user can open the cover by pressing the extension through the operating gap.

[0012] In one exemplary embodiment of this application, the rotating connection portion includes a column disposed on the cover and an insertion hole disposed on the housing for inserting the column.

[0013] In one exemplary embodiment of this application, the cover is configured to be elastically bent.

[0014] A second aspect of this application provides a smart meter, comprising: a meter body; and a meter network port sealing device as described in any of the preceding claims, wherein the housing is disposed on the outside of the meter body.

[0015] The meter network port sealing device and smart meter proposed in this application have at least the following beneficial effects: This application's solution, by incorporating a bendable folding section and a corresponding locking section, allows the rubber stopper to achieve stable self-locking with just a simple reverse pressing action after opening, effectively solving the problem of the obstruction component easily tipping over during testing. Furthermore, the meter network port sealing device of this application utilizes its own deformation and mechanical locking, requiring no additional parts, and achieves reliable fixation in the open state while ensuring the sealing function. It boasts significant advantages such as simple structure, convenient operation, and low cost.

[0016] Other features and advantages of this application will become apparent from the following detailed description, or may be learned in part from practice of this application.

[0017] It should be understood that the above general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only, and do not limit this application. Attached Figure Description

[0018] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and form part of this specification, illustrate embodiments consistent with this application and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of this application. It is obvious that the drawings described below are merely some embodiments of this application, and those skilled in the art can obtain other drawings based on these drawings without any inventive effort.

[0019] Figure 1 A three-dimensional structural schematic diagram of the cover provided in some embodiments of this application is shown.

[0020] Figure 2 A top view of the structure of a cover provided in some embodiments of this application is shown.

[0021] Figure 3 It shows Figure 2 A schematic diagram of the cross-sectional structure along the middle AA.

[0022] Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the structure of the cover being opened according to some embodiments of this application is shown.

[0023] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures: 100. Meter network port sealing device; 110. Housing; 111. Network port; 112. Holding part; 113. Insertion hole; 114. Slot; 120. Covering part; 121. Column; 122. Sealing part; 123. Folding part; 124. Sealing edge; 125. Groove; 126. Extension part; B. First distance; C. Second distance. Detailed Implementation

[0024] Exemplary embodiments will now be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, these exemplary embodiments can be implemented in many forms and should not be construed as limited to the examples set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided to make this application more comprehensive and complete, and to fully convey the concept of the exemplary embodiments to those skilled in the art.

[0025] In this application, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Thus, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature. In the description of this application, "multiple" means two or more, unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0026] In this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "assembly," "connection," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application according to the specific circumstances.

[0027] Furthermore, the described features, structures, or characteristics can be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments. Numerous specific details are provided in the following description to give a thorough understanding of embodiments of this application. However, those skilled in the art will recognize that the technical solutions of this application can be practiced without one or more of the specific details, or other methods, components, apparatuses, steps, etc., can be employed. In other instances, well-known methods, apparatuses, implementations, or operations are not shown or described in detail to avoid obscuring various aspects of this application.

[0028] See Figures 1 to 3 As shown, this application embodiment provides an electricity meter network port sealing device 100, which includes a housing 110 and a cover 120. Through the deformation and mechanical cooperation of the cover 120's specific structure, a self-locking function is achieved in the fixed structure open state, effectively reducing the problems of easy tipping and inconvenient operation of the cover 120 in related technologies.

[0029] In some embodiments of this application, see Figure 4 As shown, the housing 110 can be integrally injection molded as a component of the smart meter's plastic casing. It can have a mesh opening 111, which can be designed as a stepped connecting hole. This stepped structure provides a stable and reliable contact surface for sealing.

[0030] In some embodiments of this application, see Figure 4 As shown, a retaining part 112 protrudes from one edge of the stepped connecting hole. This retaining part 112 can be a wedge-shaped block, with its cross-sectional area tapering along the engaging direction of the folded portion 123 of the blocking member, forming a smooth guide slope. This structure ensures that the folded portion 123 can slide smoothly into and accurately engage in the predetermined position, making the engaging action both smooth and reliable.

[0031] In some embodiments of this application, see Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the cover 120 is configured to be flexibly bent. It may be manufactured by integral injection molding from silicone material or elastic material with excellent elastic recovery properties, ensuring the integrity and functionality of the structure.

[0032] In some embodiments of this application, the cover 120 is rotatably mounted on the housing 110 via a rotating connection. This rotating connection includes symmetrically arranged columns 121 and corresponding insertion holes 113, forming an interference-fit rotating pair due to the elasticity of the cover 120. This connection method allows the cover 120 to rotate smoothly to complete the opening and closing action, while also offering advantages such as easy assembly and reliable connection.

[0033] In some embodiments of this application, see Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the cover 120 may include a sealing portion 122 and a folding portion 123. The sealing edge 124, extending from the outer edge of the sealing portion 122, is tightly pressed against the stepped connecting hole in the closed state by means of material elasticity, forming an effective dustproof and waterproof sealing barrier. The connection between the folding portion 123 and the sealing portion 122 is locally thinned to form a weak structure. This thinned hinge area allows the folding portion 123 to undergo controllable elastic bending, ensuring precise and reliable bending without damaging other parts.

[0034] It should be noted that when the cover 120 is rotated open from the closed state, applying a simple reverse force to the folding part 123 will cause it to bend and engage with the retaining part 112, thereby keeping the cover 120 stably in the open position. This structural design effectively reduces the problem of the rubber stopper needing additional fixation or being easily tipped over during testing, greatly improving the convenience and efficiency of the testing operation.

[0035] In some embodiments of this application, a limiting structure is provided between the cover 120 and the housing 110 to ensure stability in the closed state.

[0036] In some embodiments of this application, see Figure 1 and Figure 3 As shown, the limiting structure includes a groove 125 on the folding portion 123 and a retaining portion 112 on the housing 110. When the cover 120 is closed, the retaining portion 112 can be inserted into the groove 125, providing a locking feel, effectively preventing accidental opening, and enhancing the reliability of use.

[0037] In some embodiments of this application, see Figure 3 As shown, the distance from the edge of the groove 125 near the extension 126 (described below) to the center line of the column 121 is the first distance B, and the distance from the center line of the column 121 to the edge of the cover 120 away from the extension 126 (described below) is the second distance C. By ensuring that the first distance B is greater than zero and the second distance C is greater than zero, the necessary lever arm length is ensured on both sides of the rotation axis, so that the center of gravity of the cover 120 falls within the stable support area after it is opened, reliably preventing it from tipping over.

[0038] It should be noted that the first distance B and the second distance C can be between 0.5mm and 5mm, such as 0.5mm, 1mm, 3mm, 5mm, etc.

[0039] In some embodiments of this application, see Figure 3 and Figure 4As shown, to optimize the user experience, the cover 120 has an extension 126 extending away from the folding part 123, and a corresponding slot 114 is formed on the housing 110. When the extension 126 covers the slot 114, the extension 126 and the periphery of the slot 114 maintain an operating gap, providing the user with a clear point of force application, making the opening action effortless and convenient, and significantly improving the user experience.

[0040] The complete workflow of this utility model is as follows: See Figure 3 As shown, in the closed state, the cover 120 tightly covers the mesh opening 111, the sealing edge 124 ensures the sealing performance, and the retaining part 112 cooperates with the groove 125 to keep the closed state stable.

[0041] When enabled, see Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the user pulls the extension 126 through the operating gap, causing the cover 120 to rotate and open around the column 121; then a reverse force is applied to the folding part 123, causing it to bend at the weak point of the structure, and finally slide into the inclined surface of the holding part 112 and be stably held.

[0042] When the seal is restored, gently lift the folding part 123 to disengage it from the holding part 112. The folding part 123 will return to its original position under the action of elastic restoring force. Rotate to fasten back to restore the sealing state.

[0043] This application also provides a smart meter, comprising a meter body and the aforementioned meter network port sealing device 100, wherein the housing 110 is part of the meter casing or is fixedly installed on its outer side. This design enables the smart meter to have a self-fixing rubber plug function, which can effectively improve operational efficiency and convenience during testing and maintenance.

[0044] In the description of this specification, references to terms such as "some embodiments," "exemplarily," etc., indicate that a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment or example is included in at least one embodiment or example of this application. The illustrative expressions of the above terms in this specification do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in a suitable manner in any one or more embodiments or examples. Moreover, without contradiction, those skilled in the art can combine and integrate the different embodiments or examples described in this specification, as well as the features of different embodiments or examples.

[0045] Although embodiments of this application have been shown and described above, it is understood that the above embodiments are exemplary and should not be construed as limiting this application. Those skilled in the art can make changes, modifications, substitutions and variations to the above embodiments within the scope of this application. Therefore, any changes or modifications made in accordance with the claims and description of this application should fall within the scope of this patent application.

Claims

1. A sealing device for an electricity meter network port, characterized in that, include: A housing, wherein the housing is provided with a mesh opening and a retaining part protruding from the mesh opening; A cover member that covers the mesh opening when closed. The cover member is rotatably mounted on the housing via a rotating connection. The cover member includes a sealing part for sealing the mesh opening and a folding part that can be bent relative to each other. When the cover rotates from the closed state to the open state, a force opposite to its opening rotation direction is applied to the folding part, causing the folding part to bend and engage with the holding part, thereby maintaining the cover in a stable open position.

2. The meter network port sealing device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The folding part and the sealing part are integrally formed, and a weak structure that is easy to bend is provided at the connection between the two.

3. The meter network port sealing device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The retaining part is configured such that its cross-sectional area gradually decreases along the direction of movement in which the folding part engages with the retaining part.

4. The meter network port sealing device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The cover and the housing are further provided with a limiting structure that cooperates with each other when closed.

5. The meter network port sealing device according to claim 4, characterized in that, The limiting structure includes a groove provided on the folding part and a retaining part provided on the housing. When the cover is in the closed state, the retaining part and the groove cooperate with each other.

6. The meter network port sealing device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The mesh opening on the housing is a stepped connecting hole; the outer edge of the sealing part extends outward to form a sealing edge, and when the covering is in the closed state, the sealing edge completely covers the stepped connecting hole.

7. The meter network port sealing device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The cover also includes an extension extending away from the folded portion, and a corresponding slot is provided on the housing; when the cover is in the closed state, the extension covers the slot and maintains an operating gap around the slot so that the user can open the cover by pressing the extension through the operating gap.

8. The meter network port sealing device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The rotating connection includes a column disposed on the cover and an insertion hole disposed on the housing for inserting the column.

9. The meter network port sealing device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that, The cover is configured to be flexible and bend.

10. A smart meter, characterized in that, include: The meter itself; as well as The meter network port sealing device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the housing is disposed on the outside of the meter body.

Images