Power Measuring Meter Coupling Part Patents (Class 439/517)
  • Patent number: 11693031
    Abstract: A meter collar is an adapter that may be inserted between a meter socket box and the meter. The meter collar may include a housing that is provided with first contacts to facilitate a mechanical and electrical connection with utility-side contacts of the meter socket box and second contacts to facilitate a mechanical and electrical connection with customer-side contacts of the meter socket box.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2021
    Date of Patent: July 4, 2023
    Assignee: INFINITE INVENTION INC.
    Inventors: Sebastian Hassell, John Schroeder, Jon Knauer, Katie Bentley, Whitman Fulton
  • Patent number: 11387599
    Abstract: The invention relates to an apparatus for connecting a power cable to an electronic unit of a power tool having at least one clamp for clamping a connecting line of the power cable and a contact element for establishing an electrical contact between the connecting line and the electronic unit. The clamp and the contact element are arranged on a connecting element extending through an opening in a housing element, which spatially separates the clamp from the electronic unit. The opening is sealed by a seal bearing against the connecting element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2020
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2022
    Assignee: Metabowerke GmbH
    Inventor: Matthias Hiller
  • Patent number: 11077805
    Abstract: A vehicular camera includes a housing having a front housing and a rear housing, and a circuit board having an imaging element disposed at a first side and a first electrical connector disposed at a second side. The rear housing includes a second electrical connector that, with the rear housing mated with the front housing, electrically connects with the first electrical connector. The second electrical connector includes electrically conductive terminals that extend through the rear housing and that each have an inner end portion and an outer end portion that is physically and electrically contiguous with the inner end portion. The inner end portions of the electrically conductive terminals of the second electrical connector extend from an inner surface of the rear housing and the outer end portions of the electrically conductive terminals of the second electrical connector extend into a socket connection portion of the rear housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2020
    Date of Patent: August 3, 2021
    Assignee: MAGNA ELECTRONICS INC.
    Inventors: Matthew C. Sesti, Steven V. Byrne
  • Patent number: 10948516
    Abstract: An electric meter socket includes: a first plurality of connection points within the electric meter socket configured to form electrical connections to line voltage wirings of an electric distribution system; a second plurality of connection points within the electric meter socket configured to form electrical connections to output voltage wirings of a DER device; one or more connection points within the electric meter socket configured to form an electrical connection of neutral wires of the electric distribution system, the DER device, and a load; and a plurality of receptacles, each of the plurality of receptacles electrically connected to a corresponding connection point and configured to accept a mating connector of an electric meter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2019
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2021
    Assignee: Landis+Gyr Innovations, Inc.
    Inventor: Matt Karlgaard
  • Patent number: 10399510
    Abstract: A method of assembling a camera for mounting at a vehicle for a vehicle vision system includes providing front and rear housings and providing a set of first electrical connectors at a circuit board of the front housing and providing a set of second electrical connectors at the rear housing. One of the first and second electrical connectors includes male connectors and the other of the first and second electrical connectors includes female connectors. The rear housing is mated with the front housing to encase an imaging element and the circuit board. When mating the rear housing with the front housing, the male connectors are inserted into respective female connectors to electrically conductively connect the first and second electrical connectors. When inserting the male connectors into the respective female connectors, the female connectors flex to accommodate misalignment of the male and female connectors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 2018
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2019
    Assignee: MAGNA ELECTRONICS INC.
    Inventors: Matthew C. Sesti, Steven V. Byrne
  • Patent number: 9735527
    Abstract: This disclosure pertains to methods and apparatus for interfacing an onsite power generation system with an existing main electric panel. The interfacing is performed by: attaching an additional jaw connector to a neutral bridge within an existing meter socket; wiring AC supply lines from the onsite power generation system to load side jaws of a multi-blade meter socket adapter; and wiring a neutral line from the onsite power generation system to an additional terminal of the meter socket adapter. The lines from the onsite power generation system are routed through an opening formed in the meter socket adapter. The meter socket adapter is then inserted into the meter socket so that five jaws in the socket receive all five blades of the meter socket adapter. The blades of the meter are then plugged into the jaws on the opposite end of the meter socket adapter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2017
    Assignee: SolarCity Corporation
    Inventors: Garret Bautista, Cormac McHugh
  • Patent number: 9709611
    Abstract: The multiple electric socket power strips with power meter is a power strip with a power measurement device or circuit adapted to determine the power consumption of the devices connected to the power strip. The multiple electric socket power strips with power meter comprises a cord, a plurality of electric sockets, a power measurement device, an optional on-off switch, and an optional overcurrent alarm circuit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2015
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2017
    Inventor: Ali Mohsenian
  • Patent number: 9582064
    Abstract: An image processing apparatus that is capable of being instructed to power off, by a power switch or a command from an external apparatus, and is capable of executing the restart thereof under appropriate conditions. When power-off is instructed, shutdown is started. Upon completion of the shutdown, if the power switch is on, and at the same time the power-off has been instructed by the power switch of the apparatus, the restart of the apparatus is executed, whereas upon completion of the shutdown, if the power-off has been instructed by a command from the external apparatus, the restart of the apparatus is not executed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2017
    Assignee: CANON KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Ryotaro Okuzono, Tomohiro Akiba
  • Patent number: 9500672
    Abstract: This disclosure pertains to methods and apparatus for interfacing an onsite power generation system with an existing main electric panel. The interfacing is performed by: attaching an additional jaw connector to a neutral bridge within an existing meter socket; wiring AC supply lines from the onsite power generation system to load side jaws of a five blade meter socket adapter; and wiring a neutral line from the onsite power generation system to an additional terminal of the meter socket adapter. The lines from the onsite power generation system are routed through an opening formed in the meter socket adapter. The meter socket adapter is then inserted into the meter socket so that five jaws in the socket receive all five blades of the meter socket adapter. The blades of the meter are then plugged into the jaws on the opposite end of the meter socket adapter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2015
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2016
    Assignee: SolarCity Corporation
    Inventors: Garret Bautista, Cormac McHugh
  • Patent number: 9214742
    Abstract: In accordance with one embodiment, an adapter for connecting a network device is provided. The adapter includes adapter housing. The adapter housing further includes a base and a wall, such that the wall extends axially from the base. The base of the adapter housing also includes an inner surface and an outer surface. The adapter includes a plurality of socket openings that extend across the base between the inner surface and the outer surface. The plurality of socket openings extend axially, the socket openings continue across the inner surface of the base through the first end of the rim and the second end of the rim. In one embodiment, the adapter includes a bypass circuit. The bypass circuit allows a network device to get power from a line side of a power meter and the consumer to get power from the load side of the power meter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2014
    Date of Patent: December 15, 2015
    Assignee: FLORIDA POWER AND LIGHT COMPANY
    Inventors: Raymond E. Garwood, Nicholas F. Santoro, Carlos M. Rodriguez
  • Patent number: 9146258
    Abstract: An end barrier that may be retroactively attached to a test switch is shown. End barrier includes extending caps to cover screws which are used to fasten the test switch to a utility box.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 29, 2015
    Assignee: E.J. Brooks Company
    Inventors: Erick William Rudaitis, Justin Arthur Olson
  • Patent number: 9017093
    Abstract: An electric meter socket assembly for an electric meter includes a female electrical contact defining a slot for receiving a male electrical contact of an electric meter to electrically connect to the electric meter. In one example, the male contact guide is in thermal contact with the female electrical contact and is configured to facilitate insertion of the male electrical contact of the electrical meter into the slot defined by the female electrical contact. The male contact guide includes a plurality of heat sink fins configured to dissipate heat generated from resistive heating of the female electrical contact. In another example, an anti-rotation stop configured to inhibit rotation of the female electrical contact relative to a mounting member on which the female electrical contact is to be mounted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 28, 2015
    Assignee: Cooper Technologies Company
    Inventors: Duan Earl Packard, III, Daniel Wayne Vosbrink
  • Publication number: 20140227904
    Abstract: In accordance with one embodiment, an adapter for connecting a network device is provided. The adapter includes adapter housing. The adapter housing further includes a base and a wall, such that the wall extends axially from the base. The base of the adapter housing also includes an inner surface and an outer surface. The adapter includes a plurality of socket openings that extend across the base between the inner surface and the outer surface. The plurality of socket openings extend axially, the socket openings continue across the inner surface of the base through the first end of the rim and the second end of the rim. In one embodiment, the adapter includes a bypass circuit. The bypass circuit allows a network device to get power from a line side of a power meter and the consumer to get power from the load side of the power meter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 21, 2014
    Publication date: August 14, 2014
    Applicant: Florida Power & Light Company
    Inventors: Raymond E. Garwood, Nicholas F. Santoro, Carlos M. Rodriguez
  • Publication number: 20140218010
    Abstract: An electric power meter collar with external electrical connection points enables expedited connection of distributed energy resources to the customer premises or the electric power grid. The meter collar is installed between an electric meter and the meter socket box that the meter would otherwise plug into at the site of a customer who receives two-phase service from an electrical utility company, and has electrical connection points that are electrically upstream and downstream of the meter. It enables “plug and play” connection of on-site power generation resources since the collar includes both a receptacle for a “plug” from on site power generation and overcurrent protection.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 11, 2014
    Publication date: August 7, 2014
    Applicant: INFINITE INVENTION LLC
    Inventors: Whitman FULTON, Adam KOEPPEL
  • Patent number: 8784130
    Abstract: The present invention includes a back feed meter adapter having one or more electrical sockets disposed of the exterior surface for accepting a plug from an alternative electrical power generator in installations that include an existing electrical utility service panel. The sockets of the back feed meter can be rotated relative to the internal couplers such that it can be easily positioned relative to the back feed connections coming from the alternative electrical power generator. The back feed meter adapter can also include an electrical switch for coupling/decoupling the electrical sockets from the electrical meter, the electrical service panel, or the electrical power utility grid to which the back feed meter adapter is coupled. The back feed meter adapter can include a window for visual confirmation of the electrical switch state. Various functionality of the back feed meter adapter can be monitored or controlled via a wireless network.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2014
    Assignee: Solarcity Corporation
    Inventors: Damien Scott, Ben Tarbell, Julian Ryba-White, Peter Rive, Eric Carlson
  • Patent number: 8721363
    Abstract: In accordance with one embodiment, an adapter for connecting a network device is provided. The adapter includes adapter housing. The adapter housing further includes a base and a wall, such that the wall extends axially from the base. The base of the adapter housing also includes an inner surface and an outer surface. The adapter includes a plurality of socket openings that extend across the base between the inner surface and the outer surface. The plurality of socket openings extend axially, the socket openings continue across the inner surface of the base through the first end of the rim and the second end of the rim. In one embodiment, the adapter includes a bypass circuit. The bypass circuit allows a network device to get power from a line side of a power meter and the consumer to get power from the load side of the power meter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2014
    Assignee: Florida Power & Light Company
    Inventors: Raymond E. Garwood, Nicholas F. Santoro, Carlos M. Rodriguez
  • Publication number: 20140127935
    Abstract: The present invention includes a back feed meter adapter having one or more electrical sockets disposed of the exterior surface for accepting a plug from an alternative electrical power generator in installations that include an existing electrical utility service panel. The sockets of the back feed meter can be rotated relative to the internal couplers such that it can be easily positioned relative to the back feed connections coming from the alternative electrical power generator. The back feed meter adapter can also include an electrical switch for coupling/decoupling the electrical sockets from the electrical meter, the electrical service panel, or the electrical power utility grid to which the back feed meter adapter is coupled. The back feed meter adapter can include a window for visual confirmation of the electrical switch state. Various functionality of the back feed meter adapter can be monitored or controlled via a wireless network.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 6, 2012
    Publication date: May 8, 2014
    Applicant: SOLARCITY CORPORATION
    Inventors: Damien Scott, Ben Tarbell, Julian Ryba-White, Peter Rive, Eric Carlson
  • Publication number: 20140125350
    Abstract: A connector includes a first terminal to which a power supply is connected, the power supply being a direct current power supply, a second terminal to which a signal ground of the direct current power supply is connected, and a third terminal connected to a frame ground, the third terminal being arranged at a location between the first terminal and the second terminal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 9, 2013
    Publication date: May 8, 2014
    Applicant: FUJITSU LIMITED
    Inventor: Yasuhiro SENBA
  • Patent number: 8717007
    Abstract: An intelligent electronic device having a terminal assembly for coupling the IED, e.g., a revenue meter, to a meter mounting socket. The assembly includes a housing including a generally planar, rigid base, the base including at least one opening and at least one circuit board having at least one electrically conducting terminal surface mounted thereon, the at least one electrically conducting terminal extending through the at least one opening of the base to mate with at least one matching jaw of a detachable meter mounting device coupled to the electrical circuit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2014
    Assignee: Electro Industries/Gauge Tech
    Inventor: Tibor Banhegyesi
  • Publication number: 20140097827
    Abstract: An improved banana jack adapter assembly is provided for use in connection with a test switch in a utility meter application. The banana jack adapter assembly improves connectability of testing equipment to a meter box test switch when a field operator desires to calibrate a meter of a utility box.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 8, 2012
    Publication date: April 10, 2014
    Inventors: Erick William Rudaitis, Gregory L. Zook
  • Publication number: 20140099820
    Abstract: A meter socket, load center combination apparatus is disclosed. The meter socket, load center combination apparatus has an enclosure having a meter socket section with a meter socket configured to receive a utility meter, a load center section having a panelboard with a plurality of locations configured to receive circuit interface devices, and a cross-bus connection section extending between first and second sides of the enclosure, the cross bus connection section having one or more side openings configured to allow electrical connection to one or more cross bus bars, and a main circuit breaker coupled between the panelboard and the meter socket. Methods of assembling power distribution systems and electrical distribution systems including the meter socket, load center combination apparatus are disclosed, as are other aspects.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 5, 2012
    Publication date: April 10, 2014
    Applicant: Siemens Industry, Inc.
    Inventors: Kristopher Scott Robinson, Jeffrey Kenton Hudgins, JR., Arthur Kevin Shumate, Brian J. Rusch
  • Patent number: 8651894
    Abstract: An electric meter socket for connecting electrical conductors thereto includes a meter socket block configured to receive at least one lug assembly. The lug assembly is configured to receive an electrical conductor and may include a lug and sliding nut. The lug includes a slide path that allows the sliding nut to be removed from the lug so an electrical conductor can be placed in the lug for connection to the meter socket. To prevent the sliding nut from sliding out of the lug until an electrical conductor is ready to be connected, the meter socket block includes at least one breakable tab that blocks the slide path, thus retaining the sliding nut within the lug. The breakable tab may be removed when an electrical conductor is ready to be connected. Methods of assembling a meter socket and of connecting electrical conductors thereto are also provided, as are other aspects.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2014
    Assignee: Siemens Industry, Inc.
    Inventor: Fan Zhang
  • Publication number: 20140038452
    Abstract: An electric meter socket for connecting electrical conductors thereto includes a meter socket block configured to receive at least one lug assembly. The lug assembly is configured to receive an electrical conductor and may include a lug and sliding nut. The lug includes a slide path that allows the sliding nut to be removed from the lug so an electrical conductor can be placed in the lug for connection to the meter socket. To prevent the sliding nut from sliding out of the lug until an electrical conductor is ready to be connected, the meter socket block includes at least one breakable tab that blocks the slide path, thus retaining the sliding nut within the lug. The breakable tab may be removed when an electrical conductor is ready to be connected. Methods of assembling a meter socket and of connecting electrical conductors thereto are also provided, as are other aspects.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 3, 2012
    Publication date: February 6, 2014
    Applicant: SIEMENS INDUSTRY, INC.
    Inventor: Fan Zhang
  • Patent number: 8602814
    Abstract: An electric meter socket assembly for connecting an electric meter to a power line. An electrically non-conductive meter base includes a terminal for connecting a power line to the base. The base also includes a track and an opening positioned along the track. An auxiliary jaw mount has a portion sized and shaped to engage the track and to prevent the mount from moving in a direction perpendicular to the track. The mount has an opening that is aligned with the opening in the base. An auxiliary jaw element has a flexible prong sized and spaced for insertion through the opening in the mount and into the opening in the base. The prong prevents the mount from moving from a predetermined position along the track. The prong includes a barb positioned to engage the mount and/or the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2013
    Assignee: Cooper Technologies Company
    Inventors: Duan Earl Packard, III, Jonathan Keith Baillio
  • Patent number: 8581450
    Abstract: A system and method that offers the provision too rapidly and safely connect electrical generation sources, including inverters used by solar collecting panels, or wind turbines, and backup hydrocarbon fueled generators or any other supplemental power sources including storage batteries, fuel cells and future electric automobiles. Thus enabling the feeding of power to all circuits in the home or small business, not just isolated circuits in a structure. The system is compliant with electric codes, requires no costly rewiring inside the structure or in the electrical circuit panel and can be accomplished entirely from the outside of the home or small business adjacent to the electric service meter for the home or small business structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2013
    Assignee: Renewable Energy Technology Group (RETG)
    Inventor: Michael Leonard Mathiowetz
  • Publication number: 20130273772
    Abstract: A meter socket block assembly for a meter socket connected to a meter having at least one meter blade, wherein the meter socket includes at least one conductor. The meter socket block assembly includes at least one lug and jaw body, the body having a lug portion and a first jaw portion which are unistructurally formed and wherein the lug portion is connected to the conductor. The meter socket block assembly also includes a second jaw portion attached to the first jaw portion to form a jaw for connecting to the meter blade. Further, the meter socket block assembly includes a base having a lug cavity for receiving the body and at least one snap tab for attaching the body to the base.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 4, 2013
    Publication date: October 17, 2013
    Applicant: SIEMENS INDUSTRY, INC.
    Inventors: Fan Zhang, Brian J. Rusch
  • Publication number: 20130181698
    Abstract: An electrical power diagnostic device and methods are disclosed. A power-supply-side connector is operable to couple to a power supply, and a load-side connector is operable to couple to a load. At least one conductive path for electricity to flow between the power-supply-side connector and the load-side connector, and a diagnostic monitor is operable to monitor and change electrical properties of the power-supply-side connector and the load-side connector.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 16, 2012
    Publication date: July 18, 2013
    Inventor: Joshua M. Rutheiser
  • Publication number: 20130137294
    Abstract: A new connector for attaching conductor wires to a metersocket is disclosed. The design of the connector allows the wires to be laid in along the side of the connector and requires little bending and slack in the wire. Once seated in place, the connector can be secured using a set screw that keeps the conductor wire in place.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 1, 2012
    Publication date: May 30, 2013
    Applicant: THOMAS & BETTS INTERNATIONAL, INC.
    Inventors: Daniel Cardin, Daniel Lalancette
  • Patent number: 8435070
    Abstract: According to an aspect of the invention, an apparatus for disconnecting electrical service includes a housing to be coupled to an electric meter socket, a first stationary connector protruding from a first side of the housing, the first stationary connector configured to connect to a first line of electricity and a second stationary connector protruding from the first side of the housing, the second stationary connector configured to connect to a second line of electricity. The apparatus also includes a first moveable connector coupled to the first side of the housing, a second moveable connector coupled to the first side of the housing, and a third moveable connector coupled to the first side of the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2013
    Assignee: Consolidated Edison Company of New York, Inc.
    Inventor: Viktor Curanovic
  • Publication number: 20130106397
    Abstract: An electric power meter collar with external sockets enables expedited connection of distributed energy resources to the customer premises or the electric power grid. The meter collar is installed between an electric meter and the meter socket box that the meter would otherwise plug into at the site of a customer who receives two-phase service from an electrical utility company, and has sockets that are electrically upstream and downstream of the meter. It enables “plug and play” connection of on-site power generation resources.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 31, 2012
    Publication date: May 2, 2013
    Inventors: Whitman Fulton, Adam Koeppel
  • Patent number: 8415898
    Abstract: A lamp connector allows for checking of a connection between an external electrode of an external electrode tubular lamp and a terminal fitting into which the external electrode is fitted. Because the lamp connector into which an external electrode provided on the outer surface of an end portion of a tubular lamp is fitted includes a terminal fitting which includes a terminal piece and a terminal piece insulated from each other which are to be individually brought into contact with the external electrode, it is possible to easily check conduction between the external electrode and the terminal fitting using a tester. Accordingly, any poor fitting of the lamp into the connector can be readily found and corrected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 9, 2013
    Assignee: Sharp Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Keiji Hayashi
  • Patent number: 8378219
    Abstract: A bus assembly and bus assembly connector include one or more insulated members that have axial sleeves that fit within one another during assembly to form a nesting arrangement. The nesting arrangement of the axial sleeves allow reduction of the overall size of the bus assembly connector while satisfying power rating standards and dielectric clearances as well as allowing bolting of the bus assembly to thereby clamp and secure the bus assembly. The axial sleeves can be distinctively designed such that the phase members must be assembled in a predetermined order, with no components being omitted, to form the bus assembly connector or clamp the bus assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Assignee: Schneider Electric USA, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas N. Lesieur, Timothy P. O'Leary, Wesley Travis, David O. Plummer, Carlton R. Rodrigues, Gregory B. Lee
  • Publication number: 20130017717
    Abstract: A power on self test card includes a connector module, a logic unit, a microchip, and a display module. The connector module includes a first connector, a second connector, and a third connector. The connector module enables the power on self test card to electrically connect to different types of low pin count buses on various motherboards via either the first connector, the second connector, or the third connector.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 28, 2011
    Publication date: January 17, 2013
    Applicants: HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD., HONG FU JIN PRECISION INDUSTRY (ShenZhen) CO., LTD
    Inventor: ZHAO-JIE CAO
  • Publication number: 20120295474
    Abstract: According to an aspect of the invention, an apparatus for disconnecting electrical service includes a housing to be coupled to an electric meter socket, a first stationary connector protruding from a first side of the housing, the first stationary connector configured to connect to a first line of electricity and a second stationary connector protruding from the first side of the housing, the second stationary connector configured to connect to a second line of electricity. The apparatus also includes a first moveable connector coupled to the first side of the housing, a second moveable connector coupled to the first side of the housing, and a third moveable connector coupled to the first side of the housing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 20, 2011
    Publication date: November 22, 2012
    Applicant: CONSOLIDATED EDISON COMPANY OF NEW YORK, INC.
    Inventor: Viktor Curanovic
  • Publication number: 20120276775
    Abstract: In accordance with one embodiment, an adapter for connecting a network device is provided. The adapter includes adapter housing. The adapter housing further includes a base and a wall, such that the wall extends axially from the base. The base of the adapter housing also includes an inner surface and an outer surface. The adapter consists of a plurality of socket opening that extend across the base between the inner surface and the outer surface. The plurality of socket openings extending axially, the socket opening continue across the inner surface of the base through the first end of the rim and the second end of the rim. In addition, the adapter may have a bypass circuit. The bypass circuit may allow a network device to get power for a line side of a power meter and the consumer may get power from the load side of the power meter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 30, 2012
    Publication date: November 1, 2012
    Applicant: Florida Power & Light Company
    Inventors: Raymond E. Garwood, Nicholas F. Santoro, Carlos M. Rodriguez
  • Patent number: 8292658
    Abstract: A connection system for providing auxiliary electrical power to electrical loads of a building may include a meter box having one or more load receptacles connectable with the electrical loads of the building and one or more power grid receptacles connectable to a power grid and a connection unit with one or more load stabs configured for engagement with the load receptacles and for electrical interconnection with the auxiliary power source. The one or more load stabs may be positioned to be electrically isolated from the power grid receptacles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2012
    Inventors: Marion King Sullivan, William Dewey Sullivan, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20120214334
    Abstract: An electric meter socket assembly for connecting an electric meter to a power line. An electrically non-conductive meter base includes a terminal for connecting a power line to the base. The base also includes a track and an opening positioned along the track. An auxiliary jaw mount has a portion sized and shaped to engage the track and to prevent the mount from moving in a direction perpendicular to the track. The mount has an opening that is aligned with the opening in the base. An auxiliary jaw element has a flexible prong sized and spaced for insertion through the opening in the mount and into the opening in the base. The prong prevents the mount from moving from a predetermined position along the track. The prong includes a barb positioned to engage the mount and/or the base.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 18, 2011
    Publication date: August 23, 2012
    Applicant: COOPER TECHNOLOGIES COMPANY
    Inventors: Duan Earl Packard, III, Jonathan Keith Baillio
  • Patent number: 8235747
    Abstract: The Invention relates to the field of power factor correction in general. Specifically, the Invention comprises a device for insertion between the power meter of an electrical utility supply and the load which is further comprised of an electrical capacitance that is sized by the method of the Invention to improve the electrical power factor of the system as measured at the meter. The benefits of the Invention include increased power factor, lower power consumption, lower energy costs, and ease of installation due to its novel plug-in packaging approach wherein a utility meter adapter embodiment of the present invention containing power factor correcting circuit capacitor(s) plugs between a utility meter and its meter socket. The device of the invention installs between the power meter and power meter receptacle without requiring significant effort or time for installation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2012
    Inventor: Steven Bruce Fish
  • Patent number: 8223476
    Abstract: A field rephaseable metering device is provided including at least three distribution buses including two side buses and a center bus, the center bus having a vertical center line. At least one meter socket is provided having a vertical center line offset from the vertical center line of said center bus, each meter socket including a first line terminal and a second line terminal. At least two line straps are provided, each having a first end configured for connecting with one of the first or second line terminals, and a second elongate end configured to be selectively connectable to one of the side buses associated with its line terminal or the center bus. When each line strap is positioned to connect one of the line terminals with one of the distribution buses, a longitudinal axis of each line strap is substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of each distribution bus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2012
    Assignee: Siemens Industry, Inc.
    Inventors: Fan Zhang, Brian J. Rusch, Arthur Kevin Shumate, James R. Tirrell, Carey D. Harnois, Robert E. Henry, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8218295
    Abstract: A watt-hour revenue socket block comprises at least three rising legs to allow the meter socket to step up or recess down depending on the orientation of the meter socket block. A cooperating meter socket enclosure has raised and lowered sections on the back wall to receive the rising legs to allow stepping up or recessing down of the meter socket. The meter socket has integral cap tracks to allow the cap to be moved to a position over the center of the meter socket block and be retained in that position by a tab while inserting the conductor in the lay in channel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Inventors: Mark K. Shoemaker, Brandon L. Lackey, James E. Carr
  • Patent number: 8182282
    Abstract: The present invention relates generally to a lever bypass plug-in meter socket. More particularly, the invention encompasses a lever bypass plug-in meter socket for electric watt-hour meters. The present invention is also directed to a novel plug-in meter socket for electrical watt-hour meter with a quick bypass. A lever may be used to rotate a bypass blade to short selected contacts through the blade when the watt-hour meter needs to be changed or tested.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2012
    Assignee: Siemens Industry, Inc.
    Inventors: Roberto Baca, Gustavo Cortes Rico, Brian J. Rusch, Fan Zhang
  • Patent number: 8177580
    Abstract: A meter disconnect adapter is provided that allows a utility meter to be connected to a meter socket while electrical service is disconnected to a facility. The meter disconnect adapter includes housing having an interior area. A plurality of terminals are coupled to the housing. Each terminal includes a stab portion and a jaw portion. The stab portion is sized to provide less than rated current flow to the utility meter. The jaw portion is sized to facilitate the coupling of the meter to the adapter. Use of this adapter enables the terminals to transfer only enough current to power the electrical meter whereby the utility may monitor and verify that no electrical power is being consumed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2012
    Assignee: Consolidated Edison Company of New York, Inc.
    Inventors: Charles Feldman, Costas Magoulas, Joseph Princiotta, Lawrence Nardo
  • Publication number: 20120112706
    Abstract: An accumulator control device includes a first electrical connection configured to connect the accumulator control device to a local accumulator. A second electrical connection is connected to the first electrical connection and configured to connect to a remote auxiliary electrical power supply device. A control unit is configured to measure at least one of a parameter of the accumulator and an environmental parameter and to transmit at least one of the at least one measured parameter and a value calculated using the at least one measured parameter to the remote auxiliary electrical power supply device via a communication interface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 12, 2011
    Publication date: May 10, 2012
    Applicant: PHOENIX CONTACT GMBH & CO. KG
    Inventors: Hartmut Henkel, Michael Heinemann, Andreas Neuendorf, Mike Wattenberg
  • Patent number: 8143568
    Abstract: A photocontrol device for controlling a powered device includes a housing assembly defining a cavity and including a base assembly. The base assembly includes an outer base member having a base opening, and an inner base member separately formed from the outer base member and mounted in the base opening. A circuit board is disposed in the cavity. A photosensor is connected to the circuit board. An elongate contact member is mechanically and electrically coupled to the circuit board. The elongate contact member is mounted on and extends through the inner base member. The elongate contact member is adapted to electrically connect the photocontrol device with the powered device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2012
    Assignee: Tyco Electronics Corporation
    Inventor: Richard Charles Flaherty
  • Publication number: 20110269337
    Abstract: A connection system for providing auxiliary electrical power to electrical loads of a building may include a meter box having one or more load receptacles connectable with the electrical loads of the building and one or more power grid receptacles connectable to a power grid and a connection unit with one or more load stabs configured for engagement with the load receptacles and for electrical interconnection with the auxiliary power source. The one or more load stabs may be positioned to be electrically isolated from the power grid receptacles.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 7, 2011
    Publication date: November 3, 2011
    Inventors: Marion King Sullivan, William Dewey Sullivan, JR.
  • Patent number: 8047867
    Abstract: A connecting assembly for an electric cylinder and a control box includes an electric cylinder, an electric control box and a sheathing ring. The electric cylinder includes an actuator and a contractible pipe module perpendicularly connected to an end of the actuator. The electric control box is disposed on an internal side at a right-angled position with respect to the actuator and the contractible pipe module and slidably connected to a side of the actuator. The sheathing ring is sheathed onto a contractible pipe module and slidably connected to a side of the electric control box. The connecting assembly of the invention not only achieves a screwless application, but also provides a quick, simple, convenient and stable assembling process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2011
    Assignee: T-Motion Technology Co. Ltd.
    Inventor: Chou-Hsin Wu
  • Patent number: 8040664
    Abstract: Disclosed are apparatus and methodology for integrating directly within an electricity meter components corresponding to a high current switch. Line and load terminals forming a portion of the high current switch also correspond to line and load terminals configured for insertion into an electricity meter socket. Plural pairs of spring elements are connected at one end thereof to the meter load terminal while the opposite ends of the spring elements carry contacts configured to cooperate with matching contacts on a conductive support. The conductive support is coupled to the line terminal by a further conductive bar that is configured to support a flux-concentrating core for measurement of current flow through the high current switch. The present subject matter has to do with integrating a service disconnect switch directly into the base of a meter so as to provide a dual functionality component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2011
    Assignee: Itron, Inc.
    Inventors: David N. Makinson, Firoz Narsidani, Kirby K. Nelson, Joseph Pontin, Michael Worley
  • Publication number: 20110237118
    Abstract: A meter disconnect adapter is provided that allows a utility meter to be connected to a meter socket while electrical service is disconnected to a facility. The meter disconnect adapter includes housing having an interior area. A plurality of terminals are coupled to the housing. Each terminal includes a stab portion and a jaw portion. The stab portion is sized to provide less than rated current flow to the utility meter. The jaw portion is sized to facilitate the coupling of the meter to the adapter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 26, 2010
    Publication date: September 29, 2011
    Applicant: CONSOLIDATED EDISON COMPANY OF NEW YORK, INC.
    Inventors: Charles Feldman, Costas Magoulas, Joseph Princiotta, Lawrence Nardo
  • Publication number: 20110212648
    Abstract: The Invention relates to the field of power factor correction in general. Specifically, the Invention comprises a device for insertion between the power meter of an electrical utility supply and the load which is further comprised of an electrical capacitance that is sized by the method of the Invention to improve the electrical power factor of the system as measured at the meter. The benefits of the Invention include increased power factor, lower power consumption, lower energy costs, and ease of installation due to its novel plug-in packaging approach wherein a utility meter adapter embodiment of the present invention containing power factor correcting circuit capacitor(s) plugs between a utility meter and its meter socket. The device of the invention installs between the power meter and power meter receptacle without requiring significant effort or time for installation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 25, 2011
    Publication date: September 1, 2011
    Inventor: Steven Bruce Fish
  • Patent number: 8002578
    Abstract: A watthour meter socket adapter has housing formed of snap together rear and front housings. The front housing surrounds but allows access to jaw contacts and terminals mounted in the rear housing by a watthour meter and electric power conductors. An aperture in the front housing engages a socket adapter mounting fastener extendible through the aperture to attach the socket adapter to a mounting surface. The fastener and aperture resist separation of the front housing from the rear housing when a watthour meter is removed from the socket adapter. A clip extends from the front housing through an aperture in a terminal cover attachable to the front housing and receives a seal lock member. Another clip on the front housing extends through the terminal cover and is engaged by an expandable ring lock clip. A meter surge guard is removably mountable to the rear housing and exteriorly of the front housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2011
    Assignee: Ekstrom Industries, Inc.
    Inventors: Darrell Robinson, Allen Pruehs