Modular Securing Apparatus for Watthour Meter Gangs
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for a securing apparatus that can securely attach to various configurations of watthour meter boxes, providing higher security and ease of installation, while being adaptable to different types of locks and allowing for modular installation, and capable of handling and positioning without being cumbersome or awkward.
Innovation Solution
The securing apparatus includes a telescopic tube assembly with coupling members that can be pivotally or rotatably attached to the ends of a securing bar, allowing for adjustable length and multiple attachment configurations, and can be used with various locking systems, including barrel locks, to secure multiple meter boxes from unauthorized access.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a fixed-length gang bar with integrated lock is used, then the device complexity is reduced, but the adaptability to different meter box configurations is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The gang bar is divided into a modular system consisting of a separate locking device and a bar component that can be attached or detached. The locking device includes a body, locking element, and extending member, while the bar can be a fixed or adjustable length component. This segmentation allows the system to adapt to different meter box configurations by selecting appropriate bar lengths and attachment methods without increasing overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking device incorporates an extending member that can move between retracted and extended positions, allowing the locking mechanism to adapt to different spatial requirements. The bar itself can be fixed or adjustable in length, providing dynamic adaptability to various gang configurations while maintaining relatively simple device architecture.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a swivel joint is used to enable various attachment configurations, then the adaptability is improved, but the ease of operation is worsened due to cumbersome handling
Solution Approach 1:
The system separates the locking device from the bar component, allowing them to be handled independently during installation. The locking device attaches to the meter boxes first, then the bar is connected to the extending members. This segmentation simplifies handling compared to a single integrated piece with swivel joints, while still achieving various attachment configurations through the modular connection points.
3Device complexity
If the lock and bar are integrated in a fixed configuration, then the device complexity is reduced, but the ease of repair and replacement is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The locking device and bar are designed as separate, attachable components. The locking device can be removed and replaced independently from the bar, and vice versa. This modular segmentation enables easy repair or replacement of individual components without requiring replacement of the entire assembly, while maintaining relatively simple device complexity through standardized connection interfaces.
4Adaptability or versatility
If a telescopic tube assembly with movable coupling members is used, then the adaptability to different gang sizes is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The bar component can be designed with telescopic or adjustable length capabilities, allowing it to adapt to different gang sizes by extending or retracting. The coupling members at the ends of the bar can be positioned or oriented to match various attachment point configurations. This dynamic adjustability provides adaptability to different gang sizes while managing device complexity through relatively simple mechanical adjustment mechanisms.
Data Source
AI summary
A securing apparatus is provided for securing, in one embodiment, a plurality of enclosures, such as for example, a plurality of electric meter boxes, the apparatus being mountable to the at least one of the plurality of enclosures. The securing apparatus comprises an enclosure locking member which includes at least a bracket arm, a fastening member and a housing mountable to at least one enclosure; the securing apparatus further comprises a securing member having first and second ends, with the securing member including at least a securing bar and a coupling member being moveably attachable to the securing bar, wherein the coupling member is pivotably mateable with the extended flange of the enclosure locking member.