Meter Socket Insert for Local Generator Interconnection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current electricity installations face challenges in efficiently connecting local renewable energy systems to existing power grids due to complexities and limitations in accessing and measuring power consumption, leading to longer installation times, higher costs, and inadequate capacity in standard meter sockets.
Innovation Solution
A system that includes a watt-hour power meter and a meter socket insert with ports connected to a local generator inverter, along with a powerline-based communication network for measuring power consumption, allowing for direct connection to existing standardized meters without the need for new breakers or panel expansions, and enabling smart monitoring and data logging.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If current sensing coils are installed around existing wires and voltage taps are placed, then power consumption can be measured, but physical access issues and installation complexity arise
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a meter socket insert as an intermediary device that interfaces between the existing meter socket and the local generator inverter. This insert provides standardized electrical connections and measurement capabilities without requiring direct access to internal wire components, thereby simplifying installation while maintaining measurement precision
Solution Approach 2:
The meter socket connection system is divided into separate functional modules: the existing meter socket, the new meter socket insert with generator connections, and the inverter. This segmentation allows each component to be installed and configured independently, reducing overall installation complexity while enabling accurate power measurement
2Adaptability or versatility
If a new breaker is added to the distribution panel for local generator connection, then the generator can be connected to the premise, but the panel box capacity is exceeded and installation becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The meter socket insert serves as an intermediary that provides generator connection capability outside the distribution panel. By routing generator connections through the meter socket infrastructure rather than requiring panel modifications, the system achieves adaptability without increasing panel box complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The meter socket insert is designed to handle multiple functions: it provides connection points for local generators, maintains existing metering capabilities, and offers measurement interfaces. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate breaker additions, preserving panel capacity while enhancing system versatility
3Ease of manufacture
If standard meter sockets are used for local generator connections, then installation is simpler, but the current capacity is inadequate for high power applications
Solution Approach 1:
The electrical connection system is segmented into the standard meter socket interface and the meter socket insert containing high-capacity connection terminals. This segmentation allows the benefit of simple standard socket installation while the insert provides the necessary high current capacity through appropriately sized terminals and conductors
Solution Approach 2:
The meter socket insert combines materials and components designed for high current carrying capacity, such as heavy-gauge copper terminals and appropriately rated conductors, within the standard meter socket framework. This composite approach maintains installation simplicity while achieving the required power handling capability
4Measurement precision
If existing electrical meters are accessed for load measurement, then power consumption data can be obtained, but security limits and physical access restrictions prevent easy measurement
Solution Approach 1:
The meter socket insert acts as an intermediary measurement interface that obtains load measurement data through the existing meter socket connections without requiring direct access to the secured meter interior. This allows accurate load measurement while respecting security limits and avoiding physical access restrictions
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for interconnecting local generation or power monitoring systems to a residential or commercial electric power system so that the connection is made via a direct connection to the power meter socket on the consumer side of the meter. The breaker for the system may be collocated with the interconnection. The system allows for a quick interconnection of the local generation or power monitoring system by inserting an attachment, or shim, underneath the existing standardized meter for simplified power connection, measurement and communications. The attachment may include integrated measurement coils or sensors connected to built-in power management electronics, a control computer, and/or a powerline communications module.