Utility Meter Cover Assembly With Self-Locking Lid Hinge
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing utility meter covers often suffer from lid detachment due to improper handling, noise issues, and material failure, particularly with cross-shaped hinges and snap hooks, which fail to inhibit gravitational movement and require additional fastening mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
A cover assembly with a self-locking mechanism using a connector and shaft configuration that applies compressive force, allowing rotational movement while inhibiting gravitational movement, formed from materials with differing elastic moduli to reduce noise and risk of damage, and incorporating an integral seal for manufacturing efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If cross-shaped hinge with snap hooks is used, then the lid can be held in certain positions (90° and 180°), but the hinge causes unwanted noise and is susceptible to material failure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the problematic snap hooks and cross-shaped hinge structure entirely, extracting the harmful elements (noise, material failure risk) while retaining the essential function of holding the lid in position through a simplified shaft-connector mechanism
Solution Approach 2:
The complex mechanical snap hook system is replaced with a simpler shaft-connector mechanism that uses friction and elastic deformation instead of mechanical engagement and disengagement, eliminating noise and reducing failure points
2Device complexity
If simple hinge is used, then the structure is simpler, but the hinge does not inhibit movement of the lid
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the physical parameters of the connector by selecting materials with different elastic moduli, creating a friction-based locking mechanism that is sufficiently complex to hold position but remains structurally simple without requiring additional fastening components
3Stability of the object's composition
If additional fastenings (hooks, snap-hooks, clasps, clips) are used to maintain lid position, then the lid can be held securely, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the functions of multiple separate fastening elements (hooks, snap-hooks, clasps, clips) into a single integrated shaft-connector assembly, achieving the same positional stability with fewer components and reduced overall complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The connector is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it provides rotational movement, maintains positional stability through friction, and eliminates the need for separate fastening mechanisms, making it a multi-functional component that reduces overall device complexity
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Facilitates easy reading of utility meters installed vertically or horizontally by preventing lid movement and reducing the need for additional fastening mechanisms, while minimizing the risk of connector and shaft damage and noise during operation.
Implementation Method 1
The force applied on the shaft may result in friction, e.g. increased friction, between the shaft and the connector, e.g. when the lid is rotated relative to the housing. Due to the friction between the shaft and the connector, gravitational movement of the lid relative to the housing may be inhibited.
Implementation Method 2
The shaft and the connector may be considered to be self-locking, e.g. due to the friction between the shaft and the connector.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~6
AI summary
A cover assembly (12) for a utility meter (10) comprises a housing (16). The assembly (12) comprises a lid (18) that is detachably connectable to the housing (16). At least one of the housing (16) and the lid comprises a shaft (22). At least one other of the housing (16) and the lid (18) comprises a connector. When the lid is connected to the housing, the connector (24) is configured to connect to the shaft (22) and to apply a force on the shaft (22) that allows rotational movement of the lid relative to the housing and inhibits gravitational movement of the lid relative to the housing.