Adjustable Meter Tail for Deformed Box Fit
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The installation space for meters in fluid distribution systems can vary due to installation conditions, leading to reduced space for the meter and surrounding tubing or piping, especially when the meter box becomes out of round after backfilling.
Innovation Solution
A meter tail system comprising an adapter secured to the meter box and a slideably adjustable tail piece extending from the adapter to the meter, allowing for adjustable positioning to accommodate varying installation spaces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a fixed meter tail connection is used, then the installation is simple, but the system cannot adapt to varying installation spaces caused by meter box deformation
Solution Approach 1:
The meter tail connection is designed with a telescoping mechanism that allows the tail piece to extend and retract along the adapter. This dynamic adjustment capability enables the system to adapt to varying installation spaces caused by meter box deformation, while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure through the use of a single adjustable component rather than multiple complex parts.
2Stability of the object's composition
If the meter box is made rigid to maintain shape, then the structural stability is improved, but the ability to accommodate installation variations is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The meter tail connection is divided into separate components: an adapter that attaches to the meter box and a tail piece that connects to the meter. The telescoping mechanism allows the tail piece to be adjusted independently of the adapter, enabling the system to accommodate installation variations without requiring the entire meter box structure to be flexible or deformable.
3Manufacturing precision
If adjustable positioning is implemented, then the fit and function in varying spaces is improved, but the assembly and adjustment process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The telescoping meter tail connection is designed to be self-adjusting through a simple sliding mechanism that allows the tail piece to extend or retract to the required position. The connection maintains its own alignment and positioning without requiring complex external adjustment devices or precise manual calibration, making the assembly and adjustment process relatively straightforward while achieving accurate fit and function.
Data Source
AI summary
A meter tail includes an adapter configured to be received within and secured to an opening defined within a meter box; and a tail piece defining a first end and a second end and extending from the adapter, the first end engaged with the adapter and the second end configured to be engaged with a meter, the tail piece extending unbroken from the first end to the second end.