Smart Meter Pole Mounting Assembly with Signal-Transparent Cover
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing smart meters are not designed to be installed on top of a mounting structure, such as a pole, which limits their installation options and functionality.
Innovation Solution
A smart meter module assembly that includes a support frame with top and bottom mounting plates, an inner bracket to secure the smart meter, and an outer cover, allowing the module to be securely mounted on a pole while enabling signal transmission.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If smart meters are designed for traditional installation methods, then they can be installed on mounting structures, but they cannot be securely mounted on poles or similar structures
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting structure is designed with universal features that allow it to accommodate multiple mounting scenarios (poles, walls, other structures). The support frame includes mounting plates with multiple aperture patterns that can be adapted to different installation locations, making the same basic structure versatile for various mounting applications.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting structure is divided into separate functional components: a support frame, mounting plates with specific aperture patterns, and an outer cover. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently and facilitates easier installation and adaptation to different mounting locations without requiring a completely custom structure.
2Adaptability or versatility
If smart meters are installed on poles, then installation options are expanded, but signal transmission may be blocked
Solution Approach 1:
The outer cover is designed with differentiated local qualities: the front portion is made transparent or translucent to allow signal transmission, while the rear portion is made opaque to provide structural closure and protection. This local differentiation enables the cover to simultaneously serve both signal transmission and structural functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The transparent front portion of the outer cover acts as an intermediary element that allows electromagnetic signals to pass through while still providing physical protection and enclosure for the smart meter. This intermediary structure resolves the conflict between needing protection and needing signal transmission.
3Ease of operation
If smart meters are mounted on poles, then functionality is improved, but the mounting structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting plates are pre-configured with multiple aperture patterns during manufacturing, and the support frame is pre-assembled with the smart meter and outer cover. This preliminary preparation allows for rapid installation on poles or other structures without requiring complex field assembly or customization, simplifying the installation process.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure describes an assembly for mounting a smart meter on a mounting pole. The assembly includes a support frame and an outer cover. The support frame includes a top mounting plate having a first routing aperture located and a first plurality of elongated apertures located circumferentially around the first routing aperture, a bottom mounting plate having a corresponding second routing aperture and a second plurality of apertures located circumferentially around the second routing aperture, the top mounting plate is spaced apart a distance from the bottom mounting plate to form an interior space of the smart meter module, and an inner bracket between the top and bottom mounting plates and coupled thereto, the inner bracket having an aperture that is generally perpendicular relative to the top and bottom mounting plates and configured to receive and secure a smart meter within the interior space of the smart meter module. The outer cover is sized to extend circumferentially around the interior space of the smart meter module. The bottom mounting plate is configured such that the smart meter module can be secured to the top of a mounting pole. Smart meter modules and related assemblies are also provided.