Utility Meter Pedestal With Integrated Pre-Construction Power Outlet
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing utility meter pedestals require a separate temporary power outlet box that needs to be pre-mounted and later removed, necessitating access to primary power connections, which is inconvenient and requires electrician expertise.
Innovation Solution
A pedestal with a mountable meter housing that integrates a main meter, service disconnect, and a 110-volt 20-amp outlet, featuring upper and lower compartments, where the lower compartment includes a user-accessible duplex outlet and switch, and an outer panel that can be locked to prevent access, eliminating the need for a separate temporary outlet box.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a separate temporary power outlet box is provided in prior art pedestals, then metered power can be provided to workers during construction, but the outlet box must be removed after construction requiring electrician expertise and access to primary power connections
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the temporary power outlet functionality directly into the main meter housing structure. The outlet is integrated into the meter box itself rather than being a separate removable component, allowing workers to access power during construction without requiring a separate outlet box that needs to be installed and removed by electricians.
Solution Approach 2:
The meter housing serves multiple functions: it houses the main service meter, provides the service disconnect switch, and simultaneously provides a temporary power outlet for construction workers. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate temporary power equipment while the building is under construction.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a separate temporary power outlet box is used, then power access is provided during construction, but post-construction removal is necessary which requires electrician expertise
Solution Approach 1:
The meter housing is designed to serve multiple phases of building lifecycle: during construction it provides temporary worker power, and after construction it continues to provide outdoor power access for lawn maintenance and other accessories. This eliminates the need to remove or modify the outlet at different stages.
Solution Approach 2:
The outlet accessibility is dynamically controlled through a lockable door mechanism. During construction, the door can be unlocked to allow worker access. After construction, the same outlet remains available but can be locked to control access, providing adaptability without requiring physical removal or complex modifications.
3Ease of operation
If the outlet is made user-accessible, then convenience is provided for outdoor power use, but safety risks increase from unauthorized access
Solution Approach 1:
The lockable door on the lower compartment provides dynamic access control. The door can be unlocked when user access is needed for outdoor power equipment, and locked when safety is a concern or when the outlet should not be used. This allows the system to adapt its accessibility state based on safety requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The lockable door acts as an intermediary between the outlet and users. It provides a controlled interface that allows legitimate access while preventing unauthorized access, thus mediating between the need for user convenience and safety concerns without requiring the outlet to be completely exposed or completely sealed.
Data Source
AI summary
An electric utility meter pedestal with provision for providing pre-construction power from underground service comprising an elongate support for a double compartment meter housing the upper portion of which accommodates a standard utility meter and the lower portion of which provides secure access to a pre-construction 110-volt duplex outlet and a breaker switch for that outlet. Access to the duplex outlet is made secure by virtue of an outer cover panel which can be put in place to fully cover and limit access to the outlet after the construction of the building has been complete. The 20 amp duplex outlet therefore provides 110 volt 20 amp service to workmen using tools during the construction phase as well as a convenient outdoor outlet for the homeowner after construction is complete.