Utility Meter Service Switch Sliding Cam Mechanism
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional utility meter systems face challenges with rigidly mounted separation systems that require precise alignment and are difficult to tune or adjust, leading to potential component damage and failure due to high current ratings and misalignment issues.
Innovation Solution
A switch system utilizing a sliding cam and motion transfer system, controlled by an actuator, which adjusts the position of conductors within the utility meter to connect and disconnect service, allowing for versatile operation and reduced stress on components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a rigidly mounted separation system is used to disconnect electrical contacts, then the separation function is achieved, but the system becomes difficult to tune and adjust, and fails to accommodate misaligned components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces rigid mounting with a dynamic spring-mounted separation system. The separation system is mounted on springs that allow it to move and adapt to misalignments between electrical contacts. This dynamic mounting enables the system to accommodate component misalignment while maintaining reliable separation function, directly resolving the technical contradiction between reliability and adaptability.
2Stability of the object's composition
If a rigidly mounted separation system is used, then structural stability is maintained, but the system cannot accommodate misaligned components and requires precise alignment
Solution Approach 1:
The spring-mounted separation system introduces dynamic elements that allow structural adaptation. The springs provide both structural support and alignment tolerance, enabling the system to maintain stability while accommodating manufacturing variations and misalignments without requiring high precision assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the mechanical parameters of the mounting system from rigid to elastic. By using springs with appropriate stiffness characteristics, the system can deflect to accommodate misalignments while maintaining structural integrity, effectively decoupling structural stability from alignment precision requirements.
3Reliability
If precise alignment is required for the separation system, then operational reliability is improved, but the system becomes difficult to tune and adjust
Solution Approach 1:
The dynamic spring mounting allows the separation system to self-adjust to misalignments through elastic deformation. This eliminates the need for precise manual alignment during installation and tuning, while maintaining reliable operation. The system automatically adapts to component positions, making it easy to install and adjust without compromising reliability.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution enhances the versatility and longevity of utility meters by enabling precise control over conductor positions, reducing the risk of damage and improving the system's ability to function in distressed states, while accommodating misaligned components.
Implementation Method 1
an actuator connected to a sliding cam for moving the sliding cam between a first position and a second position, the sliding cam slidingly receiving a terminal blade of the utility meter and including a pair of camming surfaces for disengaging a pair of conductors from the terminal blade
Implementation Method 2
a set of transfer components physically connected to the sliding cam via a pin, wherein the set of transfer components are configured to pivot about the pin and adjust a position of a set of conductors within the utility meter
Data Source
AI summary
Systems for disconnecting and/or connecting service between a utility network and a utility meter are disclosed. In one embodiment, a switch system includes: an actuator connected to a sliding cam for moving the sliding cam between a first position and a second position, the sliding cam slidingly receiving a terminal blade of the utility meter and including a pair of camming surfaces for disengaging a pair of conductors from the terminal blade in response to being moved from the first position to the second position by the actuator.