Meter bypass mechanism

Abstract

A meter box includes a meter socket, a meter bypass mechanism for providing continuous power through the meter socket, and a lock arrangement to selectively lock the meter bypass mechanism in an activated configuration. The meter bypass mechanism is operated through rotary movement. For example, terminal connectors of the meter bypass mechanism may radially extend from a rotating shaft to selectively connect terminal pairs. The rotating shaft may be connected to a rotary input shaft via bevel gears. The lock arrangement may inhibit rotation of the rotating shaft, thereby inhibiting rotation of the terminal connectors.

Description

Attorney Docket No. 15720.1149WOU1METER BYPASS MECHANISMBACKGROUND

[0001] An electric meter is used to measure the power consumption of a facility such as a house, office building, or other such structure. A meter socket is generally placed at the facility (e.g., at a wall of the facility). To install an electric meter, the electric meter can be plugged into the socket, thereby connecting terminals (e.g., meter jaws). The meter socket can be provided with a meter bypass mechanism to provide an uninterrupted supply of power even when the electric meter is not plugged into the socket (e.g., during meter maintenance or replacement of the electric meter).SUMMARY

[0002] In accordance with certain aspects of the disclosure, a meter bypass mechanism includes a first shaft extending along a respective length between opposite first and second ends; a second shaft extending along a respective length between a base end and a free end, the second shaft defining an input interface; a first gear coupled to the first shaft to move in unison with the first shaft; a second gear coupled to the second shaft to move in unison with the second shaft, the second gear meshed with the first gear; and a set of actuation tabs mounted to the first shaft at a first location along the length of the first shaft. The actuation tabs are configured to move in unison with the first shaft. The set of actuation tabs includes a first actuation tab extending outwardly from the first shaft in a first radial direction and a second actuation tab extending outwardly from the first shaft in a second radial direction that is opposite the first radial direction.

[0003] In certain examples, the first and second gears include bevel gears.

[0004] In certain implementations, the first shaft is configured to rotate about a first rotational axis that extends along the length of the first shaft and the first gear rotates about the first rotational axis.

[0005] In certain examples, the second shaft is configured to rotate about a second rotational axis that is different from the first rotational axis.

[0006] In certain examples, the input interface has a hex shaped profile.

[0007] In certain implementations, a lock arrangement selectively engages the first shaft to lock the first shaft.Attorney Docket No. 15720.1149WOU1

[0008] In certain examples, the lock arrangement includes a depressible base configured to engage the first shaft when the base is disposed in an extended position and configured to release the first shaft when the base is disposed in a depressed position.

[0009] In certain examples, the lock arrangement includes a plunger that extends from the base, past the first shaft, to a meter engagement surface. The base is depressed when a meter is pressed against the plunger.

[0010] In certain examples, the depressible base is one of a plurality of depressible bases, each depressible base being configured to independently engage the first shaft when disposed in the extended position and to release the first shaft when disposed in the depressed position.

[0011] In certain implementations, the set of actuation tabs includes a first set; and a second set of actuation tabs is mounted to the first shaft at a second location along the length of the first shaft. The second location is spaced along the length of the first shaft from the first location. The second set of actuation tabs is configured to move in unison with the first shaft.

[0012] In accordance with other aspects of the disclosure, a method of installing an electrical meter at a meter socket includes unlocking a locking arrangement to release a meter bypass mechanism of the meter socket by mounting the electrical meter at the meter socket, thereby transitioning a rotation inhibiting arrangement to a depressed position, wherein depressing the rotation inhibiting arrangement disengages a first shaft of the meter bypass mechanism to enable rotation of the first shaft; and rotating a second shaft relative to the enclosure in a first rotational direction to rotate the first shaft from an activated position to a deactivated position, wherein the meter bypass is deactivated when the first shaft is disposed in the deactivated position.

[0013] In certain examples, rotating the second shaft rotates a first gear about an input axis; wherein rotation of the first gear causes rotation of a second gear about an actuation axis, and wherein the rotation of the second gear causes rotation of the first shaft about the actuation axis.

[0014] In certain examples, rotation of the first shaft causes rotation of actuating tabs between engaged and disengaged positions, the actuating tabs connecting together a first terminal and a second terminal of the meter socket when disposed in the engaged positions thereby forming a meter bypass; and the actuating tabs being spaced from the first terminal and the second terminal when disposed in the disengaged position.

[0015] In certain examples, the electrical meter is a new electrical meter. The method further includes: prior to unlocking the meter bypass and while an old electrical meter is still installed at the meter socket, rotating the second shaft relative to the meter socket in a secondAttorney Docket No. 15720.1149WOU1 rotational direction to rotate the first shaft from the deactivated position to the activated position to transition the meter bypass to an activated state; and locking the meter bypass in the activated state by removing the old electrical meter from the meter socket.

[0016] In accordance with other aspects of the disclosure, a meter box includes: a meter socket arrangement; a meter bypass mechanism; and a lock arrangement. The meter socket arrangement is disposed within the meter box. The meter socket arrangement includes a first terminal and a second terminal. The meter bypass mechanism is disposed within the meter box. The meter bypass mechanism includes a first shaft carrying at least one terminal connector. The first shaft is rotatable between an activated position and a deactivated position. The terminal connector electrically connects together the first and second terminals when the first shaft is disposed in the activated position. The terminal connector is spaced from the first and second terminals when the first shaft is disposed in the deactivated position. The first shaft also having a first part of a locking interface. The lock arrangement is disposed within the meter box. The lock arrangement includes a base that is movable between a biased position and a depressed position. The base defines a second part of the locking interface. The second part is configured to engage the first part of the locking interface when the base is disposed in the biased position. The second part is spaced from the first part when the base is disposed in the depressed position. Engagement between the first and second parts of the locking interface inhibits rotation of the first shaft.

[0017] In certain examples, the base is movable along a translation axis between the biased position and the depressed position. The translation axis extends orthogonal to the rotation axis. The lock arrangement includes a biasing member that biases the base to the biased position.

[0018] In certain examples, the lock arrangement includes a plunger extending outwardly from the base towards an access cover of the meter box.

[0019] In certain implementations, a bypass activator is configured to rotate the first shaft at a discretion of a user. The bypass activator includes a first gear mounted to the first shaft, a second shaft, and a second gear mounted to the second shaft. The first and second gears are meshed together so that rotation of the second shaft causes rotation of the first shaft via the first and second gears.

[0020] In certain implementations, one of the first and second parts of the lock interface includes a tab and the other of the first and second parts of the lock interface defines a recess sized to selectively receive the tab.Attorney Docket No. 15720.1149WOU1

[0021] In certain implementations, the at least one terminal connector includes first and second actuation tabs extending outwardly from the first shaft in opposite directions.

[0022] A variety of additional inventive aspects will be set forth in the description that follows. The inventive aspects can relate to individual features and to combinations of features. It is to be understood that both the forgoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory only and are not restrictive of the broad inventive concepts upon which the embodiments disclosed herein are based.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0023] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of the description, illustrate several aspects of the present disclosure. A brief description of the drawings is as follows:

[0024] FIG. 1 shows an example electric meter installed at an example meter box.

[0025] FIG. 2 is an enlarged view of the meter box of FIG. 1 with the electric meter removed for ease in viewing the meter socket through a window in the access cover and with a protective cover opened for ease in viewing a meter bypass activator.

[0026] FIG. 3 shows the meter box of FIG. 1 with the access cover removed.

[0027] FIG. 4 shows an example meter bypass mechanism suitable for use in the meter box of FIG. 1, the meter bypass mechanism configured for rotary operation and including an example lock arrangement.

[0028] FIG. 5 shows the meter bypass mechanism of FIG. 4 disposed in a deactivated configuration.

[0029] FIG. 6 shows the meter bypass mechanism of FIG. 4 disposed in an activated configuration.

[0030] FIG. 7 is a first perspective view of an example first shaft arrangement including example terminal connectors and a first gear;

[0031] FIG. 8 is a second perspective view of the first shaft arrangement of FIG. 7.

[0032] FIG. 9 is an exploded view of the first shaft arrangement of FIG. 7.

[0033] FIG. 10 shows the first shaft arrangement of FIG. 7 mounted at a manifold along with a lock arrangement.

[0034] FIG. 11 illustrates an example implementation of a rotation inhibiting arrangement of the lock arrangement of FIG. 10.

[0035] FIG. 12 shows the first shaft disposed in an unlocked position relative to the lock arrangement of FIG. 10.Attorney Docket No. 15720.1149WOU1

[0036] FIG. 13 shows the first shaft disposed in a locked position relative to the lock arrangement of FIG. 10.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0037] Reference will now be made in detail to exemplary aspects of the present disclosure that are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Wherever possible, the same reference numbers will be used throughout the drawings to refer to the same or like parts.

[0038] Referring to FIGS. 1-3, a meter box 100 can be installed at a facility along the power line. The meter box 100 includes a meter socket 102 connected to the power line. An electric meter M can be installed (e.g., plugged in) at the meter socket 102 to measure power passing along the power line to the facility during normal operation of the meter box 100. The meter box 100 includes a housing 104 defining an interior into which the meter socket 102 can be disposed. A removable access cover 106 may selectively block access to the meter socket 102 and / or connection to the power line. In certain examples, the access cover 106 defines a window 108 through which a portion of the meter M is visible and / or accessible when the meter M is installed at the meter socket 102.

[0039] The meter box 100 also includes a meter bypass mechanism 120 to provide an uninterrupted supply of power to the facility even when the meter M is not installed at the meter socket 102. For example, the meter bypass mechanism 120 may enable power to continue to the facility even while the meter M is removed for maintenance or to be replaced with a new meter. In certain implementations, the meter box 100 includes a bypass activator 110 that is accessible at the access cover 106. For example, the access cover 106 may define an opening 112 through which the bypass activator 110 is accessible. The bypass activator 110 can be moved from a deactivated position Pl to an activated position P2 to selectively activate the meter bypass mechanism 120. In certain examples, the bypass activator 110 can be protected by a cover 114 (e.g., a pivoting cap).

[0040] Referring to FIGS. 4-9, the meter socket 102 includes two or more terminals 118 between which power must flow to connect the facility to the power line. In the example shown, the meter socket 102 includes a first terminal 118A and a second terminals 118B. In certain examples, the meter bypass mechanism 120 is configured to electrically connect at least the first and second terminals 118A, 118B. In certain implementations, the meter bypass mechanism 120 is configured to electrically connect the terminal 118A, 118B using rotary motion.Attorney Docket No. 15720.1149WOU1

[0041] In certain implementations, the meter bypass mechanism 120 includes a first shaft 122 that is rotatable about a first axis R1 at least between first and second positions. The first shaft 122 carries one or more terminal connectors 124 that rotate in unison with the first shaft 122. When the first shaft 122 is disposed in the first position, the terminal connector 124 does not electrically connect the first and second terminals 118A, 118B. When the first shaft 122 is disposed in the second position, however, the terminal connector 124 electrically connects at least the first terminal 118A to the second terminal 118B.

[0042] In certain implementations, the meter socket 102 includes additional terminals such as a third terminal 118C and a fourth terminal 118D. In certain examples, the meter bypass mechanism 120 is configured to electrically connect together the third and fourth terminals 118C, 118D. In certain examples, the meter bypass mechanism 120 electrically connects together the third and fourth terminals 118C, 118D simultaneously with electrically connecting together the first and second terminals 118A, 118B.

[0043] For example, the terminal connector 124 is a first terminal connector 124A and a second terminal connector 124B is spaced from the first terminal connector 124A along the rotation axis R1 of the first shaft 122. When the first shaft 122 is disposed in the first position, the second terminal connector 124B does not electrically connect the third and fourth terminals 118C, 118D. When the first shaft 122 is disposed in the second position, however, the second terminal connector 124B electrically connects the third terminal 118C to the fourth terminal 118D. In certain examples, the second terminal connector 124B is electrically isolated from the first and second terminals 118A, 118B and the first terminal connector 124A is electrically isolated from the third and fourth terminals 118C, 118D regardless of the position of the first shaft 122.

[0044] In certain implementations, each terminal connector 124 includes a body 136 that couples to the shaft 122. The body 136 carries two actuation tabs 138. The actuation tabs 138 are electrically conductive with each other. In certain examples, the actuation tabs 138 extend radially outwardly from the shaft 122 in opposite directions. In certain examples, the actuation tabs 138 are an integrally formed component 146 (e.g., see FIG. 9). In certain examples, the actuation tabs 138 are configured to rotate with the body 136. In certain examples, the body 136 defines notches through which the actuation tabs 138 extend outwardly from the shaft 122. Interaction between the actuation tabs 138 and edges of the notches causes the actuation tabs 138 to rotate with the body 136.

[0045] In certain implementations, the body 136 is configured to rotate with the shaft 122, to thereby rotate the actuation tabs 138 about the shaft 122. For example, the shaft 122 mayAttorney Docket No. 15720.1149WOU1 include mounting stations 142 (see FIG. 9) at which the terminal connectors 124 can be rotationally fixed to the shaft 122. In certain examples, the mounting stations 142 include wings or other protrusions that fit within key ways 144 or other recessed defined by the bodies 136. In certain implementations, when the first shaft 122 is disposed in the first rotational position, the actuation tabs 138 are oriented to be spaced from the terminals 118 (e.g., see FIG. 5). However, when the first shaft 122 is disposed in the second rotational position, each actuation tab 138 of a terminal connector 124 extends outwardly from the shaft 122 to contact one of the terminals 118 of the respective terminal pair (e.g., see FIG. 6).

[0046] The first shaft 122 is coupled to a first gear 126 so that rotation of the first gear 126 causes rotation of the first shaft 122. In certain examples, the first shaft 122 rotates in unison with the first gear 126. In certain examples, the first gear 126 is a bevel gear. In certain implementations, the shaft 122 defines a mounting station 140 for the first gear 126. In certain examples, the mounting station 140 includes wings or other protrusions that fit within a key way defined in the first gear 126. In certain examples, the mounting station 140 for the first gear 126 is spaced along the first rotation axis R1 from the terminal connector mounting stations 142. In certain examples, the gear mounting station 140 has the structure as the terminal connector mounting stations 142.

[0047] In certain examples, the meter bypass mechanism 120 is activated through rotary motion of the bypass activator 110. For example, the bypass activator 110 includes a second shaft 130 that is configured to rotate about a second axis R2. In certain examples, the second axis R2 is angled at a non-zero angle relative to the first axis Rl. In the example shown, the second axis R2 is orthogonal to the first axis Rl . The second shaft 130 extends between a base and end a distal end. The base end of the second shaft 130 is coupled to a second gear 128 so that rotation of the second gear 128 causes rotation of the second shaft 130. In certain examples, the second shaft 130 rotates in unison with the second gear 128. In certain examples, the second gear 128 is a bevel gear.

[0048] The first and second gears 126, 128 are operationally coupled so that rotation of the second gear 128 causes rotation of the first gear 126. In certain examples, the first and second gears 126, 128 mesh together to directly cause rotation. In certain examples, the first and second gears 126, 128 are bevel gears disposed orthogonally to each other. In certain examples, the first and second gears 126, 128 can be rotated in either of opposite first and second rotational directions.

[0049] In certain implementations, the distal end of the second shaft 130 includes an interface member 132 by which a user can selectively cause rotation of the second shaft 130 toAttorney Docket No. 15720.1149WOU1 thereby rotate the first shaft 122. In certain examples, the interface member 132 is shaped to be grasped by a spanner or other tool to facilitate rotation of the second shaft 130. In the example shown, the interface member 132 includes a hex-shaped head. In certain examples, the first shaft 122 is disposed in the first position when the second shaft 130 is disposed in the deactivated position Pl and the first shaft 122 is disposed in the second position when the second shaft 130 is disposed in the activated position P2.

[0050] In certain examples, the bypass activator 110 also includes a handle 134 by which a user can manually rotate the second shaft 130 between the deactivated position Pl and the activated position P2 without the aid of a tool. In certain examples, the handle 134 is recessed inwardly from the interface member 132. In certain examples, the handle 134 is disposed at an intermediate location between the interface member 132 and the second gear 128. In certain examples, the interface member 132 is accessible without opening or otherwise removing the access cover 106. In certain examples, the handle 134 is only accessible after the access cover 106 is opened or otherwise removed.

[0051] Referring to FIGS. 10-13, the meter bypass mechanism 120 is configured to be locked in the activated position when no meter M is received at the meter socket 102. In certain examples, the meter bypass mechanism 120 can be activated and deactivated freely while a meter M is installed at the meter socket 102. In certain examples, meter bypass mechanism 120 must be activated before the meter M is removed to provide continuous power to the facility. In certain examples, once the meter M is removed, the meter bypass mechanism 120 cannot be deactivated until a meter (e.g., a new meter, a repaired meter, the original meter, etc.) has been installed at the meter socket 102. Requiring the presence of a meter M at the meter socket 102 before deactivating the meter bypass mechanism 120 inhibits arc flash and / or other security hazards during installation and / or service.

[0052] In certain implementations, a lock arrangement 148 is disposed within the meter box 100 and is configured to inhibit the meter bypass mechanism 120 from transitioning from the activated state to the deactivated state until released. The lock arrangement 148 includes one or more inhibiting arrangements 150. The inhibiting arrangement 150 is configured to engage a portion of the meter bypass mechanism 120 to inhibit transition between the activated and deactivated positions. For example, the meter bypass mechanism 120 may define a first part of an engagement interface and the inhibiting arrangement 150 may define a second part of the engagement interface. The first part is configured to engage the second part as will be discussed in more detail herein. In some examples, the engagement interface includes a protrusion (e.g., tab) and a catch (e.g., notch).Attorney Docket No. 15720.1149WOU1

[0053] In certain examples, the lock arrangement 148 may include a respective inhibiting arrangement 150 for each terminal connector 124. In the example shown, the lock arrangement 148 includes a first inhibiting arrangement 150A that corresponds to the first terminal connector 124 A and a second inhibiting arrangement 150B that corresponds to the second terminal connector 124B. Other examples, however, include only a single inhibiting arrangement 150 configured to interlock with the meter bypass mechanism 120. In certain examples, each inhibiting arrangement 150 is configured to engage the first shaft 122.

[0054] As shown in FIG. 11, an example implementation of an inhibiting arrangement 150 includes abase 152 defining a catch 154. In certain examples, the base 152 includes an elongate bar. In certain examples, the catch 154 includes a notch defined in the base 152. The base 152 is configured to be biased along a translation axis TA by one or more biasing members 156 (e.g., see FIG. 11). In certain examples, the one or more biasing members includes a spring (e.g., a coil spring). In certain implementations, the rotational inhibiting arrangement 150 also includes one or more plungers 158 extending from the base 152 in the biasing direction.

[0055] As shown in FIG. 10, both the meter bypass mechanism 120 and the rotational inhibiting arrangements 150 are mounted to a manifold 160. The manifold 160 holds the first and second gears 126, 128 and supports the first shaft 122. In certain examples, the manifold 160 includes a cover 162 that protects the first and second gears 126, 128 during operation. The rotational inhibiting arrangements 150 are disposed so that the biasing members 156 bias the bases 152 away from the manifold 160. In certain implementations, the bases 152 of the rotational inhibiting arrangements 150 are disposed between the manifold 160 and the first shaft 122. Accordingly, the biasing members 156 bias the bases 152 towards the first shaft 122. In certain examples, the rotational inhibiting arrangements 150 are disposed relative to the first shaft 122 so that the translation axis TA of each base 152 is orthogonal to the rotation axis R of the first shaft 122.

[0056] As shown in FIGS. 12 and 13, the first shaft 122 includes lock tabs 164 the protrude radially outwardly from the first shaft 122. The lock tabs 164 are configured to rotate with the first shaft 122 between the first and second positions. When the first shaft 122 is disposed in the first position (i.e., the deactivated position), the lock tabs 164 are oriented away from the catches 154 of the rotational inhibiting arrangements 150 (e.g., see FIG. 12). When the first shaft 122 is disposed in the second position (i.e., the activated position), however, the lock tabs 164 are oriented to be engaged by the catches 154 of the inhibiting arrangements 150 (e.g., see FIG. 13). For example, one of the lock tabs 164 may extend into a recess defined by the catchAttorney Docket No. 15720.1149WOU1154. Accordingly, the lock tabs 164 and catches 154 form two parts of an engagement interface by which the inhibiting arrangements 150 lock the first shaft 122.

[0057] As the bases 152 are biased towards the first shaft 122, rotation of the first shaft 122 to the second position causes a lock tab 164 to press against a respective base 152 and counter the bias of the respective biasing member 156 to enable the lock tab 164 to move into engagement with the catch 154. However, the catch 154 and lock tab 164 are configured to inhibit disengagement of the lock tab 164 and catch 154 while the base 152 is biased towards the first shaft 122. The catch 154 and lock tab 164 are shaped and configured so that rotation of the first shaft 122 is not sufficient to counter the bias of the biasing member 156. Accordingly, engagement between the catch 154 and the lock tab 164 inhibits rotational movement of the first shaft 122. Due to engagement between the first and second gears 126, 128, the second shaft 130 (and hence the interface 132) cannot be rotated when rotation of the first shaft 122 is locked. Accordingly, locking the first shaft 122 from rotation blocks a user from rotating the second shaft 122 to the deactivated position.

[0058] In certain implementations, each rotational inhibiting arrangements 150 includes one or more plungers 158 that extend towards the access cover 106 of the meter box 102. Insertion of a meter M at the meter socket 102 causes the meter M to press against each plungers 158, thereby depressing the respective base 152 to counter the bias of the biasing members 156. Depressing the base 152 causes the catch 154 to move away from the lock tab 164, thereby releasing the first shaft 122 for rotational movement. When no meter is present at the meter socket 102, however, the bases 152 and plungers 158 are biased forwardly by the biasing members 156. Accordingly, the first and second shafts 122, 130 are locked against rotational movement when no meter M is provided at the meter socket 102. The installation of the meter M at the meter socket 102 automatically unlocks the shafts 122, 130, thereby allowing rotation from the activated position P2 back to the deactivated position Pl.

[0059] Examples of the disclosure may be described according to the following aspects.

[0060] Aspect 1. A meter bypass mechanism comprising:

[0061] a first shaft extending along a respective length between opposite first and second ends;

[0062] a second shaft extending along a respective length between a base end and a free end, the second shaft defining an input interface;

[0063] a first gear coupled to the first shaft to move in unison with the first shaft;

[0064] a second gear coupled to the second shaft to move in unison with the second shaft, the second gear operatively coupled to the first gear; andAttorney Docket No. 15720.1149WOU1

[0065] a set of actuation tabs mounted to the first shaft at a first location along the length of the first shaft, the actuation tabs being configured to move in unison with the first shaft, the set of actuation tabs including a first actuation tab extending outwardly from the first shaft in a first radial direction and a second actuation tab extending outwardly from the first shaft in a second radial direction that is opposite the first radial direction.

[0066] Aspect 2. The meter bypass mechanism of aspect 1, wherein the first and second gears include bevel gears.

[0067] Aspect s. The meter bypass mechanism of aspect 1, wherein the first shaft is configured to rotate about a first rotational axis that extends along the length of the first shaft, wherein the first gear rotates about the first rotational axis.

[0068] Aspect 4. The meter bypass mechanism of aspect 3, wherein the second shaft is configured to rotate about a second rotational axis that is different from the first rotational axis.

[0069] Aspect 5. The meter bypass mechanism of aspect 1, wherein the input interface has a hex shaped profile.

[0070] Aspect 6. The meter bypass mechanism of aspect 1, further comprising a lock arrangement that selectively engages the first shaft to lock the first shaft.

[0071] Aspect 7. The meter bypass mechanism of aspect 6, wherein the lock arrangement includes a depressible base configured to engage the first shaft when the base is disposed in an extended position and configured to release the first shaft when the base is disposed in a depressed position.

[0072] Aspect 8. The meter bypass mechanism of aspect 7, wherein the lock arrangement includes a plunger that extends from the base, past the first shaft, to a meter engagement surface; and wherein the base is depressed when a meter is pressed against the plunger.

[0073] Aspect 9. The meter bypass mechanism of aspect 7 or aspect 8, wherein the depressible base is one of a plurality of depressible bases, wherein each depressible base is configured to independently engage the first shaft when disposed in the extended position and to release the first shaft when disposed in the depressed position.

[0074] Aspect 10. The meter bypass mechanism of any of aspects 1-9, wherein the set of actuation tabs includes a first set; and wherein a second set of actuation tabs is mounted to the first shaft at a second location along the length of the first shaft, the second location being spaced along the length of the first shaft from the first location, the second set of actuation tabs being configured to move in unison with the first shaft.

[0075] Aspect 11. A method of installing an electrical meter at a meter socket, the method comprising:Attorney Docket No. 15720.1149WOU1

[0076] unlocking a locking arrangement to release a meter bypass mechanism of the meter socket by mounting the electrical meter at the meter socket, thereby transitioning a rotation inhibiting arrangement to a depressed position, wherein depressing the rotation inhibiting arrangement disengages a first shaft of the meter bypass mechanism to enable rotation of the first shaft;

[0077] rotating a second shaft relative to the enclosure in a first rotational direction to rotate the first shaft from an activated position to a deactivated position, wherein the meter bypass is deactivated when the first shaft is disposed in the deactivated position.

[0078] Aspect 12. The method of aspect 11, wherein rotating the second shaft rotates a first gear about an input axis; wherein rotation of the first gear causes rotation of a second gear about an actuation axis, and wherein the rotation of the second gear causes rotation of the first shaft about the actuation axis.

[0079] Aspect 13. The method of aspect 11, wherein rotation of the first shaft causes rotation of actuating tabs between engaged and disengaged positions, the actuating tabs connecting together a first terminal and a second terminal of the meter socket when disposed in the engaged positions thereby forming a meter bypass; and the actuating tabs being spaced from the first terminal and the second terminal when disposed in the disengaged position.

[0080] Aspect 14. The method of any of aspects 11-13, wherein the electrical meter is a new electrical meter; and wherein the method further comprises:

[0081] prior to unlocking the meter bypass and while an old electrical meter is still installed at the meter socket, rotating the second shaft relative to the meter socket in a second rotational direction to rotate the first shaft from the deactivated position to the activated position to transition the meter bypass to an activated state; and

[0082] locking the meter bypass in the activated state by removing the old electrical meter from the meter socket.

[0083] Aspect 15. A meter box comprising:

[0084] a meter socket arrangement disposed within the meter box, the meter socket arrangement including a first terminal and a second terminal;

[0085] a meter bypass mechanism disposed within the meter box, the meter bypass mechanism including a first shaft carrying at least one terminal connector, the first shaft being rotatable between an activated position and a deactivated position, the terminal connector electrically connecting together the first and second terminals when the first shaft is disposed in the activated position, and the terminal connector being spaced from the first and secondAttorney Docket No. 15720.1149WOU1 terminals when the first shaft is disposed in the deactivated position, the first shaft also having a first part of a locking interface; and

[0086] a lock arrangement disposed within the meter box, the lock arrangement including a base that is movable between a biased position and a depressed position, the base defining a second part of the locking interface, the second part being configured to engage the first part of the locking interface when the base is disposed in the biased position, the second part being spaced from the first part when the base is disposed in the depressed position, wherein engagement between the first and second parts of the locking interface inhibits rotation of the first shaft.

[0087] Aspect 16. The meter box of aspect 15, wherein the base is movable along a translation axis between the biased position and the depressed position, the translation axis extending orthogonal to the rotation axis; wherein the lock arrangement includes a biasing member that biases the base to the biased position.

[0088] Aspect 17. The meter box of aspect 16, wherein the lock arrangement includes a plunger extending outwardly from the base towards an access cover of the meter box.

[0089] Aspect 18. The meter box of aspect 15, further comprising a bypass activator configured to rotate the first shaft at a discretion of a user, the bypass activator including a first gear mounted to the first shaft, a second shaft, and a second gear mounted to the second shaft, the first and second gears operatively coupled together so that rotation of the second shaft causes rotation of the first shaft via the first and second gears.

[0090] Aspect 19. The meter box of any of aspects 15-18, wherein one of the first and second parts of the lock interface includes a tab and the other of the first and second parts of the lock interface defines a recess sized to selectively receive the tab.

[0091] Aspect20. The meter box of any of aspects 15-19, wherein the at least one terminal connector includes first and second actuation tabs extending outwardly from the first shaft in opposite directions.

[0092] Having described the preferred aspects and implementations of the present disclosure, modifications and equivalents of the disclosed concepts may readily occur to one skilled in the art. However, it is intended that such modifications and equivalents be included within the scope of the claims which are appended hereto.

Claims

Attorney Docket No. 15720.1149WOU1What is claimed is:

1. A meter bypass mechanism comprising: a first shaft extending along a respective length between opposite first and second ends; a second shaft extending along a respective length between a base end and a free end, the second shaft defining an input interface; a first gear coupled to the first shaft to move in unison with the first shaft; a second gear coupled to the second shaft to move in unison with the second shaft, the second gear operatively coupled to the first gear; and a set of actuation tabs mounted to the first shaft at a first location along the length of the first shaft, the actuation tabs being configured to move in unison with the first shaft, the set of actuation tabs including a first actuation tab extending outwardly from the first shaft in a first radial direction and a second actuation tab extending outwardly from the first shaft in a second radial direction that is opposite the first radial direction.

2. The meter bypass mechanism of claim 1, wherein the first and second gears include bevel gears.

3. The meter bypass mechanism of claim 1, wherein the first shaft is configured to rotate about a first rotational axis that extends along the length of the first shaft, wherein the first gear rotates about the first rotational axis.

4. The meter bypass mechanism of claim 3, wherein the second shaft is configured to rotate about a second rotational axis that is different from the first rotational axis.

5. The meter bypass mechanism of claim 1, wherein the input interface has a hex shaped profile.

6. The meter bypass mechanism of claim 1, further comprising a lock arrangement that selectively engages the first shaft to lock the first shaft.Attorney Docket No. 15720.1149WOU17. The meter bypass mechanism of claim 6, wherein the lock arrangement includes a depressible base configured to engage the first shaft when the base is disposed in an extended position and configured to release the first shaft when the base is disposed in a depressed position.

8. The meter bypass mechanism of claim 7, wherein the lock arrangement includes a plunger that extends from the base, past the first shaft, to a meter engagement surface; and wherein the base is depressed when a meter is pressed against the plunger.

9. The meter bypass mechanism of claim 7 or claim 8, wherein the depressible base is one of a plurality of depressible bases, wherein each depressible base is configured to independently engage the first shaft when disposed in the extended position and to release the first shaft when disposed in the depressed position.

10. The meter bypass mechanism of any of claims 1-9, wherein the set of actuation tabs includes a first set; and wherein a second set of actuation tabs is mounted to the first shaft at a second location along the length of the first shaft, the second location being spaced along the length of the first shaft from the first location, the second set of actuation tabs being configured to move in unison with the first shaft.

11. A method of installing an electrical meter at a meter socket, the method comprising: unlocking a locking arrangement to release a meter bypass mechanism of the meter socket by mounting the electrical meter at the meter socket, thereby transitioning a rotation inhibiting arrangement to a depressed position, wherein depressing the rotation inhibiting arrangement disengages a first shaft of the meter bypass mechanism to enable rotation of the first shaft; rotating a second shaft relative to the enclosure in a first rotational direction to rotate the first shaft from an activated position to a deactivated position, wherein the meter bypass is deactivated when the first shaft is disposed in the deactivated position.

12. The method of claim 11, wherein rotating the second shaft rotates a first gear about an input axis; wherein rotation of the first gear causes rotation of a second gear about anAttorney Docket No. 15720.1149WOU1 actuation axis, and wherein the rotation of the second gear causes rotation of the first shaft about the actuation axis.

13. The method of claim 11, wherein rotation of the first shaft causes rotation of actuating tabs between engaged and disengaged positions, the actuating tabs connecting together a first terminal and a second terminal of the meter socket when disposed in the engaged positions thereby forming a meter bypass; and the actuating tabs being spaced from the first terminal and the second terminal when disposed in the disengaged position.

14. The method of any of claims 11-13, wherein the electrical meter is a new electrical meter; and wherein the method further comprises: prior to unlocking the meter bypass and while an old electrical meter is still installed at the meter socket, rotating the second shaft relative to the meter socket in a second rotational direction to rotate the first shaft from the deactivated position to the activated position to transition the meter bypass to an activated state; and locking the meter bypass in the activated state by removing the old electrical meter from the meter socket.

15. A meter box comprising: a meter socket arrangement disposed within the meter box, the meter socket arrangement including a first terminal and a second terminal; a meter bypass mechanism disposed within the meter box, the meter bypass mechanism including a first shaft carrying at least one terminal connector, the first shaft being rotatable between an activated position and a deactivated position, the terminal connector electrically connecting together the first and second terminals when the first shaft is disposed in the activated position, and the terminal connector being spaced from the first and second terminals when the first shaft is disposed in the deactivated position, the first shaft also having a first part of a locking interface; and a lock arrangement disposed within the meter box, the lock arrangement including a base that is movable between a biased position and a depressed position, the base defining a second part of the locking interface, the second part being configured to engage the first part of the locking interface when the base is disposed in the biased position, the second part being spaced from the first part when the base is disposed in the depressed position, whereinAttorney Docket No. 15720.1149WOU1 engagement between the first and second parts of the locking interface inhibits rotation of the first shaft.

16. The meter box of claim 15, wherein the base is movable along a translation axis between the biased position and the depressed position, the translation axis extending orthogonal to the rotation axis; wherein the lock arrangement includes a biasing member that biases the base to the biased position.

17. The meter box of claim 16, wherein the lock arrangement includes a plunger extending outwardly from the base towards an access cover of the meter box.

18. The meter box of claim 15, further comprising a bypass activator configured to rotate the first shaft at a discretion of a user, the bypass activator including a first gear mounted to the first shaft, a second shaft, and a second gear mounted to the second shaft, the first and second gears operatively coupled together so that rotation of the second shaft causes rotation of the first shaft via the first and second gears.

19. The meter box of any of claims 15-18, wherein one of the first and second parts of the lock interface includes a tab and the other of the first and second parts of the lock interface defines a recess sized to selectively receive the tab.

20. The meter box of any of claims 15-19, wherein the at least one terminal connector includes first and second actuation tabs extending outwardly from the first shaft in opposite directions.

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