Rotating Backfeed Meter Socket Adapter
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional electrical power distribution panels lack the capacity to support backfeed from local power generators or electric vehicle charging systems, leading to issues with code compliance and the need for major rewiring when connecting renewable energy sources or electric vehicle charging systems to the grid.
Innovation Solution
A supply side backfeed meter socket adapter that allows connection of alternative electrical power generators between the main disconnect and meter without modifying existing power disconnects or distribution panels, featuring a body with electrical couplers and sockets that can rotate to accommodate different power sources and include a switch and wireless networking capabilities for status indication and control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a backfeed power supply is connected to a spare circuit in the distribution panel, then electrical power can be sent back into the grid or used locally, but there is often no room in the distribution panel for additional circuits
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter is inserted inside the existing meter socket, nesting a new functional component within the existing infrastructure. This allows the backfeed connection to be made without adding external components to the distribution panel, effectively solving the space constraint problem by utilizing the internal volume of the existing meter socket.
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter serves as an intermediary device between the existing meter socket and the backfeed power supply. It provides the necessary electrical connections and interface without requiring modifications to the distribution panel itself, thus enabling backfeed capability while maintaining the existing panel structure.
2Power
If a substantial local electrical power generator is connected to a typical distribution panel, then backfeed power can be supplied, but it can trigger problems regarding service capacity and require major rewiring
Solution Approach 1:
The adapter segments the electrical connection system by providing a dedicated interface for backfeed power between the meter socket and distribution panel. This separation allows the backfeed connection to be made independently of the existing panel circuitry, avoiding the need for major rewiring while supporting substantial power capacity.
Solution Approach 2:
The adapter is installed in advance within the meter socket, preparing the connection pathway for backfeed power before the actual generator connection is made. This preliminary setup of the electrical interface simplifies the subsequent connection process and avoids the need for complex modifications during installation.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the electrical socket is fixed in position, then the structure is simple, but it cannot accommodate different power sources requiring different connection orientations
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical socket is made rotatable within the adapter body, transforming it from a fixed to a dynamic component. This rotational capability allows the socket to be oriented in different directions to accommodate various power source connections, while the overall adapter structure remains relatively simple and compact.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention includes a back feed meter adapter having one or more electrical sockets disposed of the exterior surface for accepting a plug from an alternative electrical power generator in installations that include an existing electrical utility service panel. The sockets of the back feed meter can be rotated relative to the internal couplers such that it can be easily positioned relative to the back feed connections coming from the alternative electrical power generator. The back feed meter adapter can also include an electrical switch for coupling/decoupling the electrical sockets from the electrical meter, the electrical service panel, or the electrical power utility grid to which the back feed meter adapter is coupled. The back feed meter adapter can include a window for visual confirmation of the electrical switch state. Various functionality of the back feed meter adapter can be monitored or controlled via a wireless network.