Modular In-Ground Meter Box With Interlocking Joints
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional in-ground utility meter boxes are prone to structural weakness due to side joints that allow independent migration under external forces, compromising their ability to withstand differential soil pressures and movement, and are often bulky for transport.
Innovation Solution
The design features side and end panels with end-to-end interlocking joints that increase strength under tension, along with external surface ribbing to resist lateral movement, and a collapsible, nestable configuration for compact transport, including an adjustable bracket channel assembly for interior support.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If conventional cylindrical or cuboid meter boxes are used, then they are easy to manufacture, but they have side joints that compromise strength and allow independent migration under external forces
Solution Approach 1:
The meter box is divided into modular panels (side panels and end panels) that can be manufactured separately and then assembled together using interlocking joints. This segmentation allows each panel to be optimized for strength while maintaining ease of manufacture through standardized connection mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple panels are merged together through interlocking joints to form a complete meter box structure. The end panels feature integrated corner formations that combine structural support and connection functions, creating a unified strong structure from separate components.
2Ease of operation
If conventional meter boxes are used, then they provide basic protection, but they are bulky and difficult to transport
Solution Approach 1:
The meter box is segmented into separate panels that can be disassembled and compacted for transport. The modular design allows panels to be stacked or nested, dramatically reducing the volume occupied during transport while maintaining the ability to assemble a full-sized box at the installation location.
Solution Approach 2:
The meter box transitions from a static rigid structure during installation to a dynamic collapsible structure during transport. The panels can be adjusted between assembled and disassembled states, allowing the box to adapt its volume based on operational needs.
3Stability of the object's composition
If conventional meter boxes are used, then they are simple in design, but they allow independent migration under differential soil pressures
Solution Approach 1:
The interlocking joints merge the side panels and end panels into a unified structural system where forces are distributed across the entire assembly. The corner formations integrate multiple functional elements, creating a stable structure that resists differential soil pressures through combined structural support.
Solution Approach 2:
The end panels feature arcuate corner formations with curved surfaces that better distribute stress forces compared to sharp corners. This curvature allows for more efficient force distribution across the panel joints, enhancing stability under differential soil pressures.
Data Source
AI summary
An AMI/AMR in-ground meter box, including first and second side panels, each having an interior side and an exterior side; and first and second end panels, each having an interior side and an exterior side; wherein each of said side panels and end panels include a generally rectangular planar portion having a top edge, a bottom edge, a first interlocking end having a plurality of male elements and female slots, an arcuate second end having a 90-degree bend which forms a corner of the assembled meter box and terminating in an interlocking end having a plurality of male elements and female slots configured to interlock with paired male elements and female slots in said first interlocking end and with an improved adjustable bracket channel assembly for interior support.