Meter Socket Breakable Tab Retains Sliding Nut
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Solution Overview
Problem
The installation of electrical conductors to meter sockets is time-consuming due to the need to screw back out set screws that were previously driven deep into the lug to create a friction fit during shipping, increasing labor costs.
Innovation Solution
A meter socket design with breakable tabs on the meter socket block that align with the slide path of the sliding nut, preventing it from sliding out during shipping and handling, allowing the sliding nut to be retained without the need for a deep friction fit, and only requiring the fastener to be driven in as needed during installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If set screws are driven deep into the lug to create a friction fit, then the sliding nut is securely retained during shipping and handling, but installation time increases due to the need to screw back out the set screws
Solution Approach 1:
The retention function is segmented into two distinct mechanisms: breakable tabs for shipping retention and set screws for installation retention. The tabs are separated from the main block and can be independently removed, allowing the set screws to remain in place during installation without interfering with conductor connection.
Solution Approach 2:
The breakable tabs are pre-installed on the meter socket block to provide initial retention of the sliding nut during shipping and handling. These tabs are designed to be easily removed at the installation site, having already performed their protective function during transport.
2Reliability
If set screws are driven deep into the lug, then the sliding nut is securely held in place, but the complexity of the installation process increases
Solution Approach 1:
The retention system is divided into removable tabs and permanent set screws. The tabs handle the temporary retention need during shipping, while the set screws handle the permanent retention need during operation, separating these functions to simplify the installation process.
Solution Approach 2:
The breakable tabs are extracted as separate, removable components from the main retention system. This allows the set screws to remain in their optimal deep-position for securing the sliding nut without requiring removal or adjustment during installation.
3Device complexity
If the sliding nut is retained without breakable tabs, then the structure is simpler, but the sliding nut may slide out during shipping and handling
Solution Approach 1:
The breakable tabs are designed as disposable, low-cost components that are easily removed at the installation site. Their temporary function of retaining the sliding nut during shipping is sufficient, and they are discarded after serving their purpose, replaced by the permanent set screw retention system.
Solution Approach 2:
The tabs are designed with specific material properties and geometric features that make them easy to break or remove. Their retention force is calibrated to be sufficient for shipping but easily overcome during installation, changing the retention parameter from strong and permanent to moderate and temporary.
Data Source
AI summary
An electric meter socket for connecting electrical conductors thereto includes a meter socket block configured to receive at least one lug assembly. The lug assembly is configured to receive an electrical conductor and may include a lug and sliding nut. The lug includes a slide path that allows the sliding nut to be removed from the lug so an electrical conductor can be placed in the lug for connection to the meter socket. To prevent the sliding nut from sliding out of the lug until an electrical conductor is ready to be connected, the meter socket block includes at least one breakable tab that blocks the slide path, thus retaining the sliding nut within the lug. The breakable tab may be removed when an electrical conductor is ready to be connected. Methods of assembling a meter socket and of connecting electrical conductors thereto are also provided, as are other aspects.