Rotatable Meter Support Mechanism for Flexible Wiring Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing measuring devices, such as energy meters, have limited installation options due to fixed electrical connections, leading to increased installation costs and reduced flexibility.
Innovation Solution
A rotation mechanism that allows the front and back portions of a measuring device to rotate relative to each other, enabling flexible access to electrical connections during installation. This mechanism includes a front support and a back support with circular-shaped openings and snap-fit connectors for secure alignment and rotation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If electrical connections are in fixed positions, then wiring layout is simplified, but installation options are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the electrical connection panel rotatable relative to the display assembly. The panel can be rotated to different angular positions (0°, 90°, 180°, 270°) to accommodate different wiring layouts in the cabinet, while the display remains fixed in vertical orientation. This dynamic adjustment capability resolves the contradiction by providing both simplified wiring (through standardized connection points) and installation flexibility (through rotatable panel positioning).
2Adaptability or versatility
If the back portion is rotated to access electrical connections, then installation flexibility is improved, but device structural stability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the measuring device into two main segments: a fixed display assembly and a rotatable panel assembly containing the electrical connections. The display assembly remains stationary and structurally stable, while the panel assembly can be independently rotated to different positions. This segmentation allows installation flexibility without compromising the overall structural stability of the device, as each segment maintains its own structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a rotatable support structure as an intermediary mechanism between the fixed display assembly and the panel with electrical connections. This intermediary allows the panel to be rotated to accessible positions during installation while maintaining a stable connection to the display assembly. The intermediary mechanism ensures that structural stability is preserved while enabling the necessary rotational movement for flexible installation.
Data Source
Figure 1A~2B
Figure 3A~4B
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AI summary
A mechanism includes a front support and a back support, each having first and second opposing surfaces and a circular-shaped opening formed in a center portion of the support. A connecting feature is positioned around a periphery of the circular-shaped opening of the front support, and is configured to be received in the circular-shaped opening of the back support to releasably secure the front support to the back support. The back support and a back portion of a measuring device are configured to be rotated in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction with respect to the front support and a front portion of the measuring device about an axis of the circular-shaped opening formed of the front support and the circular-shaped opening of the back support to enable flexible access to the electrical connections on the back portion of the measuring device.