Electricity Meter Sensor Carrier With Spacing Elements
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electricity meters with permanent connections between conductors and sensor components can be undesirable, as they may not maintain optimal separation, leading to sensitivity decreases when external forces cause conductor flexing or misalignment.
Innovation Solution
An electricity meter design featuring a carrier with at least three spacing elements to maintain a constant separation between the sensor component and the conductor, using a projecting arrangement to engage apertures in the conductor and sensor component, ensuring stability and sensitivity even under external forces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If a permanent connection (soldering) is used to affix the conductor to the sensor component, then the connection is strong and stable, but the sensor sensitivity decreases when external forces cause conductor flexing or misalignment
Solution Approach 1:
The invention divides the connection system into separate components: a carrier component that holds the sensor component, and a conductor component, with spacing elements maintaining a defined separation between them. This segmentation allows the sensor to remain fixed relative to the carrier while the conductor can be positioned at an optimal distance, preventing direct mechanical coupling that would transmit flexing forces to the sensor.
Solution Approach 2:
The spacing elements act as intermediaries between the conductor and the sensor component. These elements maintain a precise separation distance, allowing the conductor to be electrically connected to the sensor through the carrier without direct mechanical contact. This intermediary structure prevents the transmission of mechanical stresses while maintaining electrical functionality.
2Volume of moving object
If the carrier is positioned close to the conductor for compact design, then the device size is reduced, but the sensor sensitivity decreases due to misalignment and external forces
Solution Approach 1:
The invention creates a dynamic separation where the spacing elements allow for controlled movement and positioning. The carrier can be positioned at an optimal distance from the conductor to maintain sensor sensitivity, while the overall assembly remains compact through efficient spatial arrangement. The spacing elements accommodate minor positioning variations without compromising measurement precision.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the carrier is fixed rigidly to the conductor, then the structural stability is improved, but the sensor sensitivity decreases when external forces cause misalignment
Solution Approach 1:
The invention applies different mechanical properties to different parts of the system. The carrier component provides rigid support for the sensor component, while the spacing elements provide controlled flexibility and positioning relative to the conductor. This local differentiation of mechanical properties allows structural stability where needed while maintaining sensor sensitivity by preventing rigid coupling that would transmit misalignment forces.
Data Source
AI summary
An electricity meter comprises a conductor having a substantially planar surface; and a carrier for carrying a sensor component for enabling detection of current flowing in the conductor, wherein the carrier is spaced from the planar surface of the conductor by an arrangement of at least three spacing elements. The spacing elements may project from the carrier or from the substantially planar surface of the conductor.