U.S. patent application number 15/144051 was filed with the patent office on 2016-08-25 for meter tool with safety shield.
This patent application is currently assigned to Kilvert, LLC. The applicant listed for this patent is Kilvert, LLC. Invention is credited to James R. Stillwagon.
Application Number | 20160243687 15/144051 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 47518064 |
Filed Date | 2016-08-25 |
United States Patent
Application |
20160243687 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Stillwagon; James R. |
August 25, 2016 |
METER TOOL WITH SAFETY SHIELD
Abstract
A tool for installing and removing an electrical power meter
including a sleeve member defining a cavity therein with an opening
to the cavity defined in the sleeve member's first end. An
adjustment mechanism on the sleeve member is movable between a
first position where the opening is enlarged to permit entry of a
portion of the meter into the cavity; and a second position where
the opening is reduced. An engagement assembly at the first end of
the sleeve member grippingly engages the meter when the adjustment
assembly is in the second position. The engagement assembly
includes a pair of locking lips which each receive part of a
peripheral edge of the meter's base therein. Gaps are defined
between the locking lips to enable venting of any electrical
discharge therethrough. A removable shield may be secured to the
second end of the sleeve member.
Inventors: |
Stillwagon; James R.;
(Columbus, OH) |
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Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Kilvert, LLC |
Dublin |
OH |
US |
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|
Assignee: |
Kilvert, LLC
|
Family ID: |
47518064 |
Appl. No.: |
15/144051 |
Filed: |
May 2, 2016 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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13618812 |
Sep 14, 2012 |
9339917 |
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15144051 |
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13354034 |
Jan 19, 2012 |
9156140 |
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13618812 |
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12779577 |
May 13, 2010 |
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13354034 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B25B 27/14 20130101;
Y10T 29/53909 20150115; B25B 27/02 20130101; B25B 27/00 20130101;
G01R 3/00 20130101; B25B 9/00 20130101 |
International
Class: |
B25B 27/02 20060101
B25B027/02; B25B 9/00 20060101 B25B009/00; G01R 3/00 20060101
G01R003/00 |
Claims
1. A meter tool comprising: a sleeve member having a first end
opposite a second end, and a longitudinal axis extending
therebetween; a cavity defined by the sleeve member; an opening to
the cavity defined in the first end of the sleeve member; wherein
the cavity is sized to receive a portion of an electrical meter
therein through the opening; a blast shield connected to the sleeve
member adapted to protect an operator from an electrical blast when
an electrical meter is removed from a meter mount; a first handle
coupled with the sleeve member; and a second handle attached to the
blast shield offset from the longitudinal axis.
2. The meter tool of claim 1, wherein the second handle is entirely
offset from the longitudinal axis and a portion of the first handle
intersects the longitudinal axis.
3. The meter tool of claim 1, further comprising: a first height of
the first handle relative to the blast shield; a second height of
the second handle relative to the blast shield; and wherein the
first and second heights are equal.
4. The meter tool of claim 1, wherein the second handle is oriented
parallel to the first handle.
5. The meter tool of claim 1, further comprising a blast shield
area that is at least 50% larger than a sleeve member area when
viewed from the second end; wherein the blast shield is centered
about the longitudinal axis and the blast shield extends radially
outward a greater distance than the sleeve member relative to the
longitudinal axis.
6. The meter tool of claim 1, wherein the blast shield is connected
to the sleeve member closer to the second end than the first
end.
7. The meter tool of claim 1, wherein the blast shield defines an
aperture extending fully therethrough intermediate the first and
second handles.
8. The meter tool of claim 1, wherein the second handle is a
C-shaped unibody member.
9. An electrical blast shield for connection with a meter tool, the
blast shield comprising: a first surface opposite a second surface,
wherein the first surface diameter is in a range from 18 inches to
24 inches; a central first opening extending completely through the
blast shield from the first surface to the second surface, wherein
the central first opening is adapted to receive a component of the
meter tool therethrough for gripping with a dominant hand of an
operator; a shield handle connected to the first surface offset
from the central first opening adapted to be grasped by a
nondominant hand of an operator; and wherein the blast shield is
formed from a transparent material.
10. In combination; an electrical power meter including a base with
a front and back surface, and a dome extending outwardly from the
front surface of the base; wherein the meter is adapted to engage
one or more stabs mounts on a meter mount; a meter tool selectively
engageable with the meter to detach the same from the meter mount;
wherein the meter tool comprises: a sleeve member having a first
end opposite a second end, and a longitudinal axis extending
therebetween; a cavity defined by the sleeve member; an opening to
the cavity defined in the first end of the sleeve member; wherein
the cavity is sized to receive a portion of the meter therein
through the opening; an adjustment mechanism provided on the sleeve
member; wherein the adjustment mechanism is operable to change the
size of the opening to the cavity; and wherein the adjustment
mechanism is movable between a first position where the opening is
enlarged to permit entry of the meter into the cavity; and a second
position where the opening is reduced; and an engagement assembly
provided at the first end of the sleeve member; said engagement
assembly being adapted to engage a portion of the meter when the
adjustment mechanism is moved into the second position.
11. The combination as defined in claim 10, wherein the sleeve
member comprises: a first sleeve portion and a second sleeve
portion that are disposed in side-by-side relationship; and wherein
the cavity is bound and defined by the first and second sleeve
portions; and wherein the adjustment assembly includes an
articulating mechanism which engages the first and second sleeve
portions and is configured to move a region of the first sleeve
portion and a region of the second sleeve portion one of toward and
away from each other as the adjustment assembly is operated.
12. The combination as defined in claim 11, wherein the engagement
assembly comprises: a first locking lip provided on the first
sleeve portion at the first end of the sleeve member; and a second
locking lip provided on the second sleeve portion at the first end
of the sleeve member; and wherein the first and second locking lips
are configured to grippingly engage the portion of the meter
between them.
13. The combination as defined in claim 12, further comprising: a
first gap defined between a first side edge of the first locking
lip and a first side edge of the second locking lip; and a second
gap defined between a second side edge of the first locking lip and
a second side edge of the second locking lip; and wherein the first
and second gaps are adapted to permit venting of any accidental
electrical discharge therethrough.
14. The combination as defined in claim 13, wherein the first end
of the sleeve member has a circumference; and wherein each of the
first and second locking lips is of a first circumferential length;
and each of the first and second gaps is of a second
circumferential length; and the first circumferential length is
less than one quarter of the circumference of the first end of the
sleeve member; and the second circumferential length is greater
than one quarter of the circumference of the first end of the
sleeve member.
15. The combination as defined in claim 10, further comprising: a
blast shield removably attached to the sleeve member; a meter
removing movement from an electrically connected first position to
a disconnected second position relative to the meter mount; an
electrical blast released from adjacent the meter mount when the
meter is moved from the connected first position to the
disconnected second position; and wherein the blast shield protects
an operator manually removing the meter.
16. The combination as defined in claim 15, further comprising a
first grasping member extending outwardly from the blast
shield.
17. The combination as defined in claim 16, further comprising a
second grasping member extending outwardly from the blast shield in
a direction similar to that of the first grasping member.
18. The combination as defined in claim 17, wherein the first
grasping member is a shield handle attached to the blast shield and
entirely offset from the longitudinal axis.
19. The combination as defined in claim 17, wherein the first and
second grasping members are oriented parallel to each other.
20. The combination as defined in claim 17, further comprising: an
equal height of the first and second grasping members relative to
the blast shield.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION
[0001] This application is a Divisional application of prior U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 13/618,812, filed on Sep. 14, 2012,
which is a Continuation-in-Part of prior U.S. patent application
Ser. No. 13/354,034, filed Jan. 19, 2012 (now U.S. Pat. No.
9,156,140), which is a Continuation-in-Part of prior U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 12/779,577, filed May 13, 2010; the entire
specifications of which are incorporated herein by reference.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Technical Field
[0003] The invention relates generally to a tool for installing and
removing electrical power meters. More particularly, the invention
relates to a tool with a shield for removing electrical power
meters. Specifically, the invention relates to a tool with a
removable shield that can be used to protect a user while
installing and removing electrical power meters and where the tool
includes a mechanism for opening and closing an opening to a cavity
into which the meter is received; and an engagement assembly which
engages a base region of the meter to retain it within the tool's
cavity.
[0004] 2. Background Information
[0005] Electrical power meters must be occasionally removed and
installed on electrical power distribution boxes or housings. The
electrical meters can be removed by hand but there is a great deal
of danger due to the high current, risk of electrocution, and
electrical arc explosion that creates arc thermal energy and a
pressure wave and fragmentation.
[0006] U.S. Pat. No. 5,097,581 is directed to an electrical power
meter installing/removing apparatus that fits around the perimeter
of the meter base and locks in place with snapping tabs. The
operator then pulls back on the tool and removes the meter from the
distribution box. While the apparatus includes a handle proximate
the back end of the tool, the tool does not protect the user from
electrocution or explosion which may occur at the connection
between the power meter and the distribution box when the meter is
removed.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0007] The present invention broadly comprises a tool for
installing and removing an electrical power meter comprising a
sleeve member adapted for sliding movement about the meter and
having a first end opposite a second end, a plurality of releasable
gripping hooks mounted on the first end of the sleeve member for
selectively engaging the meter, an attaching hook member extending
outwardly from the first end of the sleeve member, and a shield
secured to the second end of the sleeve member.
[0008] The present invention also broadly comprises a method of
removing an electrical power meter comprising the steps of
providing a sleeve member having a first end with a plurality of
releasable gripping hooks and an actuating hook member extending
outwardly from the first end of the sleeve member and a second end
with a handle, mounting a shield with a handle on the sleeve member
second end, sliding the sleeve member onto the power meter until
the attaching hook members surround a power meter gripping collar,
grasping the second end handle and the shield handle, and pulling
the sleeve member handle and the shield member in a direction away
from the power meter.
[0009] The present invention also broadly comprises a method of
removing an electrical power meter comprising the steps of securing
a shield to a meter tool, wherein a first side of the shield abuts
the back end, and operating a clamping system of the meter tool
from the safety of a second side of the shield.
[0010] An alternative embodiment of the invention comprises a tool
for installing and removing an electrical power meter which
includes a sleeve member defining a cavity therein, with an opening
to the cavity defined in the sleeve member's first end. An
adjustment mechanism on the sleeve member is movable between a
first position where the opening is enlarged to permit entry of a
portion of the meter into the cavity; and a second position where
the opening is reduced. An engagement assembly at the first end of
the sleeve member grippingly engages the meter when the adjustment
assembly is in the second position. The engagement assembly
includes a pair of locking lips which each receive part of a
peripheral edge of the meter's base therein. Gaps are defined
between the locking lips to enable venting of any electrical
discharge therethrough. A removable shield may be secured to the
second end of the sleeve member.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0011] The preferred embodiment of the invention, illustrative of
the best mode in which Applicants have contemplated applying the
principles of the invention, are set forth in the following
description and are shown in the drawings.
[0012] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a sleeve member of a first
embodiment of the invention with releasable gripping hooks and
attaching hooks;
[0013] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the sleeve member with a
safety shield having a handle secured thereon;
[0014] FIG. 3A is an exploded view of the sleeve member shown with
an intermediate member and connecting fasteners;
[0015] FIG. 3B is an exploded view of the safety shield and
handles;
[0016] FIG. 4 is a top plan view of the safety shield secured to
the sleeve member;
[0017] FIG. 5 is a partial cross-sectional view of the sleeve
member and safety shield taken generally about Line 5-5 in FIG.
4;
[0018] FIG. 6 is a partial cross-sectional view of the sleeve
member taken generally about Line 6-6 in FIG. 4;
[0019] FIG. 7 is an operational view showing an operator gripping
the handles and forcing the sleeve member and safety shield in the
direction of a power meter;
[0020] FIG. 8 is an operational view showing the installer forcing
the sleeve member on to the power meter;
[0021] FIG. 9 is an operational view of the operator removing the
power meter with the sleeve member and an electrical explosion
being deflected around the safety shield;
[0022] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a sleeve member of a second
embodiment of the invention with a clamping system for actuating a
pair of lips to grip and release the meter;
[0023] FIG. 11 is an exploded view of the sleeve member shown with
a template;
[0024] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the sleeve member having a
drill extending therein and an actuation device attached
thereto;
[0025] FIG. 13 is an enlarged view of a portion of FIG. 12;
[0026] FIG. 14 is a perspective view of an enhanced meter puller of
the present invention;
[0027] FIG. 15 is a partial exploded view of the enhanced meter
puller of the present invention;
[0028] FIG. 16 is a top plan view of the enhanced meter puller;
[0029] FIG. 17 is a partial cross-sectional view of the enhanced
meter puller taken generally about Line 17-17 of FIG. 16;
[0030] FIG. 18 is an operational view showing an operator gripping
the handles of the enhanced meter puller and manually moving the
enhanced meter puller towards a meter;
[0031] FIG. 19 is an operational view showing an operator actuating
a clamping system of the meter puller from behind the shield;
[0032] FIG. 20 is an operational view of the operator removing the
meter using the enhanced meter puller and an electrical explosion
being deflected around the shield;
[0033] FIG. 21 is a partial cross-sectional side view of the first
embodiment meter puller engaged with a meter and showing the hook
portions of the meter puller engaging the terminal end of the
dome;
[0034] FIG. 22 is perspective view of a third embodiment of a meter
puller in accordance with the present invention;
[0035] FIG. 23 is a perspective view of an electrical power meter
exploded outwardly from a meter mounting box;
[0036] FIG. 24 is a perspective view of the third embodiment of the
meter puller of the present invention being interlockingly engaged
with the meter when mounted in the meter mounting box;
[0037] FIG. 25 is cross-sectional side view of the meter puller
engaged with the meter and taken along line 25-25 of FIG. 24;
[0038] FIG. 26 is an enlarged cross-sectional side view of the
highlighted region of FIG. 25;
[0039] FIG. 27 is a rear view of the meter puller and meter taken
along line 27-27 of FIG. 26; and
[0040] FIG. 28 is a cross-sectional side view of the third
embodiment of the meter puller engaged with a damaged or
alternative style of meter.
[0041] Similar numbers refer to similar parts throughout the
drawings.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
[0042] At the outset, it should be appreciated that like drawing
numbers on different drawing views identify identical, or
functionally similar, structural elements of the invention. While
the present invention is described with respect to what is
presently considered to be the preferred embodiment, it is to be
understood that the invention as claimed is not limited to the
disclosed aspects.
[0043] Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms
used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood to one of
ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. Although
any methods, devices or materials similar or equivalent to those
described herein can be used in the practice or testing of the
invention, the preferred methods, devices, and materials are now
described.
[0044] The tool of the present invention is indicated generally at
10, and is particularly shown in FIGS. 1 through 9. As particularly
shown in FIG. 1, a sleeve member 12 includes a first end 14
opposing a second end 16. First end 14 includes an opening 18,
while top end 16 is enclosed by a top surface 20. Further, top
surface 20 is recessed within a lip portion 22 of sleeve member 12
which defines a cavity 23.
[0045] A handle 24 is connected to second end 16 through fasteners
26 and holes 28 (not shown in FIG. 1). Handle 24 generally consists
of a pair of posts 30 having holes 32 on tabs 33 for receiving
fasteners 26 and a central rod 34 disposed between inner surfaces
36 of post 30 and connected to the post with fasteners 38.
Accordingly, handle 24 is removable by unscrewing fasteners 26.
[0046] Sleeve member 12 is preferably cylindrical in shape and
formed of a rigid material such as plastic. In a preferred
embodiment, four attachment hooks 40 are mounted on an outer
surface 42 of sleeve member 12 with a pair of rivets 44. Attachment
hooks 40 are preferably thin strips of metal which extend for
approximately half of a length of the sleeve member and terminate
proximate first end 14 of sleeve member 12. Further, the width of
the attachment hooks is preferably just smaller than guide opening
46 in first end 14.
[0047] A gripping hook 48 is secured to a terminal end 50 of
attachment hook 40 with a pair of rivets 52 which may extend into
guide opening 46. Gripping hooks 48 preferably include a flat
portion 54 near the rivets and an angled portion 56 extending
upward from the rivets to provide a lever arm for hook portion 58.
Hook portion 58 is connected to flat portion 54 through lower
angled portion 60. Hook portion 58 is preferably generally
perpendicular to lower angled portion 60 so as to grip on to the
power meter base. Further, angled portion 56 permits the hook
portion 58 to be directed radially outward by compressing the
angled portion 56 towards sleeve member outer surface 42.
[0048] Referring now to FIG. 2, sleeve member 12 is shown with a
shield 62 connected to sleeve member 12. Further, an intermediate
member 64 is located between shield 62 and sleeve member second end
16. Shield 62 includes an outer surface 66 and a central opening
68. Central opening 68 is preferably sized and shaped complementary
to handle 24 so that the shield can be installed vertically around
handle 24 when the handle is secured to sleeve member second end
16. Further, shield 62 also includes a handle 70 arranged generally
perpendicular to second end handle 24 to provide a comfortable
orientation for the operator. Shield 62 rests atop intermediate
member 64 and is secured to the intermediate member and the sleeve
member with threaded studs 72 and fasteners 74. Finally, shield 62
is preferably sized to protect an operator and may range anywhere
from the diameter of sleeve member second end 16 to well over 24
inches. However, in a preferred embodiment the shield diameter is
approximately 18 inches to 24 inches and is particularly 24 inches
in the preferred embodiment. Shield 62 is preferably composed of a
clear rigid plastic material that is capable of withstanding
electrocution and a significant impact. Shield 62 may also be
composed of a flame retardant transparent polycarbonate shield or
may include a plurality of shields stacked one atop of the
other.
[0049] FIGS. 3A and 3B illustrate an exploded view of the first
preferred embodiment tool 10. As can be particularly seen in FIG.
3A, intermediate member 64 is preferably cylindrical in shape and
includes a plurality of holes 76 for receiving fasteners 26. A
plurality of holes 78 permit threaded studs 72 to extend there
through and secure shield 62 to sleeve member second end 16.
Further, FIG. 3A illustrates a plurality of apertures 80 within
second end 16 for receiving fasteners 26 of the handle as shown in
FIG. 3B. Further, nuts 82 secure handle 24 and fasteners 26 to the
intermediate member 64 and sleeve member 12. Intermediate member 64
is preferably cylindrical in shape and sized to fit within lip
portion 22 of second end 16. Further, intermediate member 64
preferably has a thickness greater than the height of lip portion
22 to extend the shield contact surface above lip portion 22.
Specifically, a bottom surface 84 of shield 62 contacts a top
surface 86 of intermediate member 64 above lip portion 22, while a
bottom surface 87 of the intermediate member 64 contacts top
surface 20.
[0050] Referring specifically to FIG. 3B, safety shield 62 is shown
with a pair of apertures 88 for receiving threaded studs 72 of
second end 16. Shield 62 also includes a pair of apertures 90 for
receiving fasteners 92 to connect handle 70 to shield 62. Further,
central opening 68 is again shown complementary shaped to handle 24
and includes a pair of rectangular openings 94 at each end and a
slot 96 for permitting passage of handle central rod 34 during
installation, while rectangular openings 94 permit passage of posts
30 during installation. Accordingly, a bottom surface 98 of post 30
rests flush with bottom surface 84 of shield 62 when fully
installed, while a bottom surface 100 of handle 70 rests on a top
surface 102 of the shield 62 after installation. Therefore, handle
70 is preferably shorter than handle 24 to ensure that the handles
are aligned at the same height. In a preferred embodiment, handle
70 is shorter than handle 24 by the same thickness as shield
62.
[0051] FIGS. 4, 5, and 6 illustrate the arrangement of the meter
puller 10 and shield 62 components. As seen in FIG. 4, diameter D
of shield 62 is preferably larger than diameter E of sleeve member
12. Further, the orientation of handle 24 with respect to handle 70
is seen in greater detail to allow the operator to more naturally
use the meter puller and shield. Still further, this view
illustrates the larger range of protection for the operator.
[0052] FIG. 5 illustrates a cross-sectional view showing second end
16 with studs 72 integral to the second end and intermediate member
64 surrounding the studs 72. FIG. 5 also illustrates opening 18
extending upward from first end 14 all the way to second end 16.
Still further, this view illustrates lip portion 22 extending
partially up the thickness of intermediate member 64 and
intermediate member 64 extending far above lip portion 22. While
studs 72 are shown integral to the second end 16, the studs 16
could be removably secured to the second end 16 with nuts.
[0053] FIG. 6 illustrates a cross-sectional view of first end 14
illustrating gripping hook 48 secured to outer surface 42 of sleeve
member 12 with rivets 44. In addition, an absorbing mount 104 is
located proximate an inner surface 106 of sleeve member 12.
Absorbing mount 104 preferably includes a pair of apertures 108
arranged to receive rivets 44 and particularly mount attachment
hook 40 to sleeve member 12. Absorbing mount 104 is preferably
constructed of a rigid plastic but may also be constructed of a
more flexible material and is useful to reduce the bending moment
that is created by operating angle portion 56.
[0054] Having described the structure of the preferred embodiment,
a preferred method of operation will be described in detail and
should be read in light of FIGS. 1 through 9 and particularly FIGS.
7 through 9.
[0055] FIGS. 7 through 9 illustrate the operation of the tool after
shield 62 has been secured on intermediate member 64 and second end
16 as shown in FIGS. 3A, 3B, and 5. Referring now to FIG. 7, an
operator 110 grasps tool 10 at handles 24 and 70 and moves the tool
in a direction associated with arrow 111 towards electrical power
meter 126 having a base 127. As seen in FIG. 8, the operator
continues to move the tool in a direction associated with arrow 111
until hook portions 58 interlockingly engage the meter for removal
of the same from distribution box 123.
[0056] FIG. 9 illustrates removal of the electrical meter by
pulling tool 10 in direction associated with arrow 122 away from a
distribution box 123 and particularly meter mount 125. Should an
electrical explosion or electrical discharge occur during the
removal of meter 126, a blast 140 will be sent towards the operator
and deflected by shield 62 or, due to the size of the shield, pass
radially outward of the shield and thereby missing the operator.
Advantageously, this shield arrangement provides a greater cone of
protection for the operator to reduce the risk and damage that a
blast may cause during electrical power meter removal and
installation. Still further, the shield provides greater dexterity
for the user in that there are two handles to guide the tool on to
the power meter as well as during the removal and installation
process.
[0057] Alternatively, the operator may use a strap wrench or other
suitable tool to compress angled portions 56 on each gripping hook
48. Advantageously, using a strap wrench allows the operator to
compress the gripping hooks and surround the power meter while
reducing the operator's risk of being electrocuted.
[0058] Thus, tool 10 provides an apparatus for protecting a user as
well as additional assistance during the installation and removal
of electrical power meters. Further, the tool is easily
transportable as shield 62 may be easily removed to allow for
storage. The shield provides a cone of protection with greater heat
attenuation for the user with increasing the user's control over
the meter puller by using two hands.
[0059] It will be evident to one of skilled in the art that a
variety of changes can be made that are within the spirit and scope
of the present invention. For instance, the sleeve member and
shield may be composed of the same or different materials and can
be manufactured of a variety of colors, including translucent
colors. Further, the size of the shield and the length of the
sleeve member may be adjusted to accommodate specific users or
specific power meters.
[0060] In a second embodiment of the present invention, an enhanced
meter puller 101 is shown in FIGS. 10-21, and described
hereinafter.
[0061] As shown in FIGS. 10 and 14, enhanced meter puller 101
includes a meter puller 103, which may be embodied by any common
off-the-shelf meter puller. Shown particularly in FIG. 10, meter
puller 103 includes a sleeve member 112 which extends from a first
end 114 to a second end 116. First end 114 defines an opening 118,
while a top surface 120 is disposed at second end 116. A pair of
posts 130 extends outwardly away from top surface 120 and receive a
central rod 134 therebetween to form a handle 124. Sleeve member
112 is comprised of a first sleeve portion 113 coupled with a
second sleeve portion 115, wherein first sleeve portion 113 and
second sleeve portion 115 are movable with respect to each other.
As shown in FIG. 10, meter puller 103 includes a locking mechanism
or a clamping system, shown generally at 135. Clamping system 135
is intended to move first sleeve portion 113 and second sleeve
portion 115 together and apart to clamp onto a meter for
extraction. Clamping system 135 includes a cam arm 137 extending
from a first end 145 to a second end 147. First end 145 is
pivotably connected to second sleeve portion 115 by way of a pivot
bolt 139, whereas second end 147 (FIG. 16) is pivotably connected
to a distal portion of second sleeve portion 115 by way of a pivot
bolt 141 (FIG. 16). Thus, cam arm 137 wraps entirely around first
sleeve portion 113, and is pivotable from a first position (FIG.
10) to a second position (FIG. 18). A user generally actuates cam
arm 137 by way of a knob 143 removably secured to cam arm 137 via a
threaded member 144 (FIG. 11) extending into an aperture 146 (FIG.
11) defined by cam arm 137. Threaded member 144 is secured therein
by way of a nut 148.
[0062] As shown in FIG. 10, clamping system 135 further includes a
pair of cam tracks 149 defined by first sleeve portion 113. A
corresponding pair of cam bolts 151 extend from cam arm 137 into
cam tracks 149 to cammably connect first end 114 of sleeve member
112 to cam arm 137. It will readily be understood that by moving
cam arm 137 from the first position to the second position, cam
bolts 151 follow the orientation of cam tracks 149 in a camming
manner to move first sleeve portion 113 in relation to second
sleeve portion 115. This reduces the overall size of opening 118
when cam arm 137 is in the first position, and enlarges opening 118
when cam arm 137 is in the second position. Extending from each of
first sleeve portion 113 and second sleeve portion 115 are a pair
of corresponding lock lips 153, which generally surround opening
118. Those in the art will readily understand that cam arm 137 is
moved from the second position to the first position to clamp lock
lips 153 around a meter for extraction. Those in the art will
readily understand that cam arm 137 is moved from the second
position to the first position to clamp lock lips 153 around a
meter for extraction. Pursuant to this, once lock lips 153 are
clamped on a meter, the user then physically pulls meter puller 103
by way of handle 124 to remove the meter from the meter box.
[0063] Enhanced meter puller 101, the individual components, and
the overall method for assembling the same will now be discussed.
One of the primary features of enhanced meter puller 101 relates to
applying a shield 162 to meter puller 103 for protecting the user.
Pursuant to this, enhanced meter puller 101 provides a method for
actuating clamping system 135 safely behind shield 162. Broadly
speaking, shield 162 includes a first side 168 and an opposite
second side 170. As shown in FIG. 14, first side 168 is sized and
positioned to abut top surface 120 of sleeve member 112. A
plurality of bolts 181 are provided and sized to fit through a
corresponding plurality of bolt apertures 183 defined by shield 162
such that bolts 181 extend through the corresponding bolt apertures
183 and into sleeve member 112 to secure shield 162 thereto. As
such, sleeve member 112 proximate second end 116 must provide a
corresponding receiving hole 185 for receiving bolt 181 therein.
Inasmuch as meter puller 103 may be provided as an off-the-shelf
component, receiving holes 185 may not be provided at the outset.
Thus, a template 165 is provided for ensuring receiving holes 185
align with bolt apertures 183.
[0064] Template 165 is provided with a plurality of drill apertures
187 as well as a handle aperture 189. As such, the user may extend
template 165 onto second end 116 of sleeve member 112 such that
template 165 abuts top surface 120. It will be readily understood
that handle aperture 189 is sized and shaped to receive handle 124
therethrough for allowing template 165 to extend down into an
abutting relationship with top surface 120. As shown in FIG. 12,
the user then extends a drill through drill apertures 187 and into
sleeve member 112 such that receiving holes 185 are formed thereby,
and in correct alignment with bolt apertures 183. Thereafter,
template 165 is removed and shield 162 is lowered onto top surface
120 such that bolt apertures 183 align with receiving holes 185,
which allows the user to extend bolts 181 through both bolt
apertures 183 and receiving holes 185. As shown in FIGS. 15 and 17,
a free end 192 of each bolt 181 is thereby positioned within sleeve
member 112 proximate second end 116. Thereafter, the user then
applies a washer 191 and a wing nut 193 onto free end 192 to secure
bolts 181 and lock shield 162 onto meter puller 103. As shown in
FIG. 15, shield 162 further includes a handle aperture 195 which is
particularly sized and shaped to align handle 124 to pass
therethrough, thus allowing shield 162 to tightly abut top surface
120. One will readily understand that handle aperture 195, handle
aperture 189, and other related components of enhanced meter puller
101 may be sized and shaped differently to accommodate different
meter pullers 103 in general, and in particular, different second
ends 116 of sleeve member 112.
[0065] As shown in FIG. 15, enhanced meter puller 101 further
includes a brace handle 179 for providing additional handle for use
by the user in manually pulling the enhanced meter puller 101, and
physically manipulating the overall structure. Brace handle 179 is
formed in an overall C-shaped structure having a pair of legs 180
which extend to align with a corresponding pair of handle apertures
182 defined by shield 162 and particularly positioned such that a
corresponding pair of handle bolts 198 extend therethrough to
secure brace handle 179 to shield 162, as shown in FIGS. 14 and 18.
As such, brace handle 179 extends upwardly away from second side
170 of shield 162. Thus, the user enjoys both handle 124 as
provided by meter puller 103, as well as brace handle 179 as
provided by enhanced meter puller 101 for use in manually
manipulating the overall structure of enhanced meter puller 101,
particularly when clamping system 135 is clamped onto a meter.
[0066] It is a primary feature of the present invention that a user
of enhanced meter puller 101 may actuate clamping system 135 from
behind the relative safety of second side 170 of shield 162. Thus,
the physical manipulation of enhanced meter puller 101, as well as
the actuation of clamping system 135 may be done entirely behind
shield 162. Pursuant to this, shield 162 defines aperture 175 which
is positioned purposely to align an actuation device 169 with cam
arm 137, as shown in FIG. 14. As shown in FIG. 12, actuation device
169 includes a first portion 171 and a second portion 173. As shown
in FIG. 14, first portion 171 is sized and shaped to be extended
through aperture 175 and disposed proximate cam arm 137. As shown
in FIG. 13, a bracket 196 is provided to pivotally secure first
portion 171 of actuation device 169 to cam arm 137. Bracket 196
includes a receiving sleeve 197 for receiving first portion 171 of
actuation device 169 therein. Bracket 196 further includes a pivot
element 199 for allowing receiving sleeve 197 to pivot while first
portion 171 is secured therein. A shaft 194 extends from pivot
element 199 and receiving sleeve 197, and is sized and shaped to
extend through aperture 146 defined by cam arm 137 (FIG. 11).
Thereafter, nut 148 or alternatively, an additional nut is secured
to shaft 194 to firmly secure shaft 194 and the overall bracket 196
onto cam arm 137 in a pivotable manner. As shown in FIG. 14, second
portion 173 of actuation device 169 thereafter extends through
aperture 175 and outwardly away from second side 170 of shield 162
such that an actuation handle 177 may be applied thereon. In
accordance with the pivoting nature of cam arm 137 and overall
clamping system 135, the user may thereafter push and pull
actuation handle 177 to move cam arm 137 between the first position
(FIG. 19) and the second position (FIG. 18). Aperture 175 is sized
to allow a reasonably tight fit around actuation device 169 such
that the pushing and pulling on handle 177 generally in a linear
nature towards and away from shield 162. One will readily recognize
that manually manipulating handle 177 in a linear manner
corresponds to manually manipulating cam arm 137 in a linear
manner. However, manipulating actuation handle 177 is done from a
safe position behind shield 162, thereby drastically reducing the
chance that a user will be harmed by an explosion or an electrical
discharge from the meter while the meter is being removed. This
represents an enormous leap in the field in terms of safety as well
as efficiency, as it will be readily understood that shield 162 may
be retroactively applied to preexisting off-the-shelf meter pullers
103. Thus, the overall expense of providing the user with improved
safety is relatively minor.
[0067] The overall size of shield 162 may differ, however, in the
preferred embodiment, the overall diameter or cross-sectional size
of shield 162 is preferably at least 50% larger than the overall
diameter of second end 116 of sleeve member 112. This provides the
user with an extended shielding while manually manipulating meter
puller 103. Likewise, shield 162 may be manufactured using any
common components. However, shield 162 is preferably constructed
using a dielectric or insulating material such that electricity may
be dissipated efficiently without harming the user.
[0068] A user may receive the elements for forming enhanced meter
puller 101 as a kit or aftermarket addition for standard
off-the-shelf meter pullers, similar to meter puller 103.
Alternatively, it is within the scope of the invention to provide
enhanced meter puller 101 in a fully assembled state, having the
shield secured onto a sleeve member for sale as a single unit.
[0069] In operation, the user or assembler is presented with meter
puller 103 and the elements for assembling enhanced meter puller
101 and begins forming enhanced meter puller 101 by abutting
template 165 to top surface 120 of sleeve member 112. This allows
the user to align drill apertures 187 on template 165 with the
areas on top surface 120 for forming receiving holes 185. As shown
in FIG. 12, the user drills through template 165 and drill
apertures 187 into sleeve member 112 to form receiving holes 185
therein.
[0070] One will readily understand that the drilling is generally
undertaken in the direction of Arrow 210 to penetrate through
template 165 and into sleeve member 112. Thereafter, the user then
removes knob 143 from cam arm 137 to expose aperture 146 for
attachment with first portion 171 of actuation device 169. Shaft
194 on bracket 196 is extended through aperture 146 and secured
therein by way of nut 148 or a similar element such that actuation
device 169 is pivotable to move cam arm between the first position
and the second position as desired by the user. As shown in FIG.
15, thereafter, the user then extends shield 162 such that handle
124 extends through aperture 195 allowing first side 168 of shield
162 to abut top surface 120 of sleeve member 112. Inasmuch as bolt
apertures 183 and receiving holes 185 are aligned, free end 192 of
bolts 181 extend through each of these openings and into the
interior of sleeve member 112, where each free end 192 is secured
by any means in the art. Particularly, as shown in FIG. 15, free
end 192 is secured therein by washer 191 and wing nut 193
threadably received thereon. Concurrent to this, second portion 193
of actuation device 169 extends through aperture 175 to extend
outwardly away from second side 170 of shield 162. The user then
screws or adheres actuation handle 177 onto second portion 173 of
actuation device 169. Thereafter, the user then secures brace
handle 179 to shield 162 by way of handle bolts 198 extending
through handle apertures 182 and into each of the pair of legs 180.
Thus, enhanced meter puller 101 is shown in the fully assembled
state in FIG. 14.
[0071] As shown in FIGS. 18-20, enhanced meter puller 101 is then
useable to provide a safe method for removing a meter 220 disposed
in an electrical box 230. As shown in FIG. 18, the method for
removing a meter 220 from an electrical box 230 is shown in the
initial stages. Meter 220 is interconnected with electrical box
230, and is in need of removal. To initiate removing meter 220, the
user ensures that meter puller 103 is in the second or opened
position. This requires cam arm 137 to be fully retracted towards
the user with cam bolts 151 closest to the user. In this
orientation, lock lips 153 are in a fully opened and extended
position with opening 118 having its largest diameter. As one can
readily ascertain from viewing FIG. 18, the user is positioned
behind shield 162 such that shield 162 is intermediate the user and
the meter 220. The user then moves enhanced meter puller 101 in the
direction of Arrow 211 to plunge meter 220 into the interior of
sleeve member 112. As shown in FIG. 19, the user then pushes
actuation handle 177 towards meter 220 to articulate actuation
device 169 such that cam arm 137 moves forward or away from the
user to transition meter puller 103 into the first or closed
position. Likewise, this movement of cam arm 137 retracts lock lips
153 in the directions of arrow 211 to lock puller 103 onto meter
220. Clamping system 135 is engaged and moved by the user safely
behind shield 162. Therefore, any electrical discharge or explosion
will be deflected by shield 162 away from and around the user.
[0072] As shown in FIG. 20, after the user locks meter puller 103
onto meter 220 by actuating clamping system 135 from safely behind
shield 162, the user then grasps enhanced meter puller 101 by
handle 124 and brace handle 179 to allow the user to manually
manipulate and pull enhanced meter puller 101 in the direction of
Arrows 214 to thereby remove meter 220 from electrical box 230. As
shown in FIG. 20, in the event there is an electronic discharge or
explosion 240, the user remains safely behind shield 162 and
proximate second side 170 throughout the entire operation of using
enhanced meter puller 101 to remove meter 220 from electrical box
230.
[0073] FIG. 21 shows a cross-sectional view of sleeve member 12 of
meter puller 10, previously described herein, engaged with
electrical power meter 126. Meter 126 includes a base 127 and a
glass dome 129. Dome 129 comprises a first region 129a which is
generally circular in cross-sectional shape and is of a first
diameter "D1". Dome 129 further comprises a second region 129b
which is coaxial with first region 129a but comprises a bezel or
rim region which is stepped and is of a larger diameter than first
region 129a. In particular, the second region 129b has a maximum
diameter "D2" which is substantially equal to that of base 127. The
bezel or second region 129b circumscribes and engages base 127. The
terminal end 129c of dome 129 comprises part of this second region
129b and terminates substantially flush with back surface 128b of
base 127. First region 129a of dome 129 extends forward and
outwardly away from a front surface 128a of base 127. Back surface
128b of base 127 is interlockingly engaged with stabs mounts 133
which extend outwardly from meter mount 125 as is well known in the
art. The uppermost pair of stabs mounts are energized stabs mounts
while the bottom pair of stabs mounts are neutral stabs mounts.
Additionally, bracing members 239 engage portions of the peripheral
edge 128c of base 127 to retain meter 126 on meter mount 125.
[0074] FIG. 21 shows sleeve 12 of meter puller 10 engaged with
meter 126. In particular, this figure shows lower angled portion 60
of hooks 40 overlapping second region 129b of dome 129. Hook
portions 58 of lower angled portions 60 overlap terminal end 129c
of dome 129. Because of this overlapping engagement, when meter
puller 10 is moved in the direction of arrow "A" away from meter
mount 125, hooks 58 will move in the direction of arrow "A" and
will pull meter 126 off meter mount 125. This system works
effectively provided that substantially the entire dome 129 and
most particularly the second region 129b thereof is intact.
However, it is fairly common that some part of dome 129,
particularly second region 129b thereof is cracked or broken. When
this occurs, it is extremely difficult for meter puller 10 to
engage meter 126 to a degree sufficiently secure enough to be able
to pull dome 129 and base 127 off meter mount 125.
[0075] In order to address this issue, there is shown in FIGS.
22-28, a third embodiment of a meter puller in accordance with the
present invention, generally indicated at 310. Meter puller 310 is
illustrated in FIG. 22 without the presence of a shield 62 or 162
but it should be understood that a shield in accordance with the
present invention could be engaged with meter puller 310 in the
manner described previously herein.
[0076] Meter puller 310 is substantially similar to meter puller
103 in that it includes a sleeve member 312 comprised of a first
sleeve portion 313 and a second sleeve portion 315, and has a first
end 314 and a second end 316. In one embodiment of the device,
meter puller 310 may be manufactured from a transparent material so
that the operator is able to more accurately determine whether
meter puller 310 is correctly positioned to capture meter 326
therein.
[0077] As with the second embodiment, first and second sleeve
portions 313, 315 are movable relative to each other. First and
second sleeve portions 313, 315 also bound and define an interior
cavity 311 (FIG. 25). First end 314 defines an opening 318 to
cavity 311. Second end 316 includes a top surface 320 from which a
pair of handle posts 330 extends outwardly. A central handle shaft
334 extends between the handle posts 330 to form a handle 324. A
projection (not shown) extends out of each end of handle shaft 334
and each projection is received within a channel in one of handle
posts 330. This configuration enables handle shaft 324 to slide a
bit back and forth between posts 330 as first and second sleeve
portions 313, 315 are moved toward and away from each other. The
configuration of the handle 324 also substantially prevents handle
shaft 334 from rotating inside handle posts 330 and about its
longitudinal axis. This handle design ensures that the operator is
able to securely hold meter puller 310 during operation of the same
and thus improves the safety of installing or removing meter
326.
[0078] It should be noted that in the second embodiment of the
meter puller 103, central shaft 134 of handle 124 is substantially
vertically aligned with a zone 117 (FIG. 10) along which the first
and second sleeve portions 113, 115 join each other in top surface
120. In meter puller 310, on the other hand, central handle shaft
334 is disposed substantially at right angels to the zone 317 along
which first and second sleeve portions 313, 315 join each other in
top surface 320. Thus, when first and second sleeve portions 313,
315 move relative to each other as the device is used, their
relative movement is substantially at right angles to the central
handle shaft 334 of handle 324. This configuration of handle 324
and first and second sleeve portions 313, 315 makes it easier and
therefore safer for the operator to move first and second sleeve
portions 313, 315 toward and away from each other with the actuator
rod 369, as will be hereinafter described.
[0079] In accordance with the present invention, meter puller 310
also includes a clamping system, shown generally at 335. Clamping
system 335 is substantially identical to clamping system 135 and
will therefore not be described in greater detail herein. Suffice
to say that clamping system 335 is configured to move first sleeve
portion 313 and second sleeve portion 315 toward and away from each
other in substantially the same manner as clamping system 135 moves
first and second sleeve portions 113, 115 toward and away from each
other. Clamping system 335 is operable in a first instance to cause
first and second sleeve portions 313, 315 to move away from each
other to enlarge opening 318 so that the device is able to clamp
onto an electrical power meter 326 (FIG. 23). Clamping system 335
is operable in a second instance to cause first and second sleeve
portions 313, 315 to move toward each other to reduce the size of
opening 318 and so that the device will clampingly engage
electrical power meter 326, as will be hereinafter described.
[0080] Clamping system 335 differs from clamping system 135 in that
the cam arm 337 which forms part thereof differs somewhat from cam
arm 137. Cam arm 337 has a first end 345 which is similarly
configured to first end 145 and a second end 347 which is similarly
configured to second end 147 (FIG. 10). Instead of a knob 143 being
disposed intermediate first and second ends 145, 147, cam arm 337
includes the actuator rod 369 which is permanently engaged with an
actuator guide 401 extending outwardly from a side wall 313b of
first sleeve 313. Actuator guide 401 is disposed proximate second
end 316 of sleeve member 312 and defines a guide hole 402 therein.
Actuator rod 369 is engaged with cam arm 337 at a first end in the
same manner that actuation device 169 is engaged with cam arm 137.
Actuator rod 369 is provided with an actuator handle 377 at a
second end. It should be noted that handle 377 is spaced a
substantial distance away from top surface 320 of meter puller 310.
The positioning of handle 377 makes it safer for an operator to
actuate meter puller 310. Actuator rod 369 which extends from
handle 377 functions in much the same way as actuation device 169
except that its movement is more precisely controlled by actuator
guide 401 and that movement is therefore always substantially
linear and substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis "Y"
(FIG. 25) of meter puller 310. Substantially the entire rest of the
structure of actuator rod 369 is the same as actuation device 169
and it functions in substantially the same manner as actuation
device 169.
[0081] Meter pullers 103 and 310 provide an advantage over
previously known meter pullers because of the camming action of
clamping system 335 which is utilized to move first and second
sleeve portions 313, 315 toward and away from each other.
Previously known meter pullers are only capable of loosely grabbing
a meter and it is necessary for the operator to maintain pressure
on the handle at all times to keep the meter engaged with these
previously known meter pullers. This makes the installation and
retrieval of meters using previously known meter pullers a fairly
exacting and potentially dangerous task. In the device of the
present invention, on the other hand, camming action provided by
clamping system 335 effectively locks the first and second sleeve
portions 313, 315 in the closed position around the meter 326 (FIG.
22). This means that the meter 326 is securely retained within
meter puller 310 during installation and retrieval thereof without
the operator having to apply continued pressure on the handle to
keep the puller locked. The present meter puller 310 is therefore
an improvement over previously known devices because it tends to
make the meter puller 310 more steady and stable during use and
therefore safer for the operator.
[0082] Meter puller 310 further differs from meter puller 103 in
that it is provided with a handle 403 on the actuation bracket 404
(FIG. 22) which extends vertically along the side edges between
first and second sleeve portions 313, 315. Handle 403 is provided
to aid the operator in holding meter puller 310 along with handle
324 in certain circumstances, as will be described later
herein.
[0083] Meter puller 310 is designed to be able to pull electric
meter 326 (FIG. 23) from its engagement with meter mount 325. Meter
326 includes a generally planar base 327 and a dome 329 which is
engaged with the same as illustrated in FIGS. 23 and 25. Dome 329
is substantially identical to dome 129 and includes a first region
329a of a first diameter "D1", a second region 329b which is
stepped and has a maximum diameter "D2", and a terminal end 329c
which is flush with a rear surface 328b of base 327. Dome 329
further includes an annular side region 329d which comprises the
outermost portion of second region 329b which is of the maximum
diameter "D2". (The components housed within meter 326 are not
illustrated herein for sake of clarity.) Meter 326 also has
longitudinal axis "Y" which is disposed at right angles to base
327.
[0084] As shown in FIGS. 23 and 25, meter mount 325 includes a
weatherproof housing 331 which surrounds and protects a grounded
back plate from which extend an upper pair of energized stabs
mounts and a lower pair of neutral stabs mounts 333. Stabs 333a
(FIG. 23) extending outwardly from the energized and neutral stabs
mounts 333 are configured to be received through apertures 341
(FIG. 27) in base 327 of meter 326. The pairs of stabs mounts 333
are substantially horizontally aligned with each other and a pair
of generally Y-shaped bracing members 339 extends forwardly from
the back wall of housing 331. Bracing members 339 are typically
horizontally aligned with stabs mounts 333 and the pair of bracing
members 339 flank the stabs mounts 333. Each gripping member 339
comprises a spring-loaded wireform that is configured to brace a
section of the side region 329d of meter 326. When bracing members
339 are so engaged with side region 329d, meter 326 is tightly
retained on meter mount 325. It is the clamping engagement of
bracing members 339 with meter 326 that has to be overcome by meter
puller 310.
[0085] In accordance with yet another feature of the present
invention, meter puller 310 is provided with a pair of locking lips
353a, 353b. The location of locking lips 353a, 353b is best seen in
FIGS. 22 and 27. First sleeve portion 313 has longitudinal side
edges (not shown) which are disposed adjacent longitudinal side
edges (not shown) of second sleeve portion 315. First sleeve
portion 313 further has an end 313a which extends between the
longitudinal side edges of first sleeve portion 313. Second sleeve
portion 315 also has an end 315a which extends between the
longitudinal side edges of second sleeve portion 315. The first end
313a of first sleeve portion 313 and the first end 315a of second
sleeve portion 315 form a generally circular shape when sleeve
member 312 is in the closed position, i.e. when first and second
sleeve portions 313, 315 are disposed adjacent each other such as
when they are clampingly engaged with meter 326 (shown in FIG. 27).
This generally circular shaped end comprises the first end 314 of
sleeve member 312. First end 314, because it is generally circular,
has a circumference.
[0086] In accordance with the present invention, first locking lip
353a extends longitudinally outwardly away from end 313a of first
sleeve portion 313 and second locking lip 353b extends
longitudinally outwardly away from end 315a of second sleeve
portion 315. Each of the first and second locking lips 353a, 353b
are generally C-shaped when meter puller 310 is viewed from the
back (such as in FIG. 27) and are disposed along portions of the
circumference of sleeve member 312. Each of the first and second
locking lips 353a, 353b is also generally U-shaped when viewed in
cross-section (such as in FIGS. 25 & 26). First and second
locking lips 353a, 353b are mirror images of each other and
substantially identical in structure and function. Consequently,
second locking lip 353b is described herein in greater detail but
it will be understood that the description applies equally to first
locking lip 353a.
[0087] Referring to FIG. 26, second locking lip 353a includes a
first leg 355a, a second leg 355b, and a third leg 355c. First leg
355a extends outwardly from end 315a of second sleeve portion 315.
Preferably, first leg 355a is integrally formed with the second
sleeve portion 315 but it may, alternatively, be separately
securable thereto. First leg 355a extends radially outwardly from
side wall 315b of second sleeve portion 315 and is disposed
substantially at right angles relative thereto. Second leg 355b
extends outwardly from first leg 355a and is disposed substantially
at right angles thereto. Third leg 355c extends outwardly from
second leg 355b and is disposed substantially at right angles
thereto. Thus, second leg 355b is substantially parallel to side
wall 315b of second sleeve portion 315. Additionally, first and
third legs 355a, 355c are substantially parallel to each other and
extend outwardly from second leg 355b in generally the same
direction as each other. A channel 357 is defined between first and
third legs 355a, 355c and this channel 357 is sufficiently large
enough to receive a circumferential portion of the second region
329b of meter dome 329 therein.
[0088] As is evident from FIG. 26, first leg 355a is of a first
length "L1" and third leg 355c is of a second length "L2", and the
second length "L2" is substantially longer than the first length
"L1". In particular, third leg 355c is of a sufficient length that
it extends beyond an interior surface of side wall 315b (FIG. 26)
for a distance. Thus, third leg 355c extends for a distance across
an opening to cavity 311, where the opening is defined between the
ends 315a and 313a (FIG. 25) of first and second sleeve portions
313, 315. Preferably, second length "L2" is around 5/8 inches long.
This second length "L2" of third leg 355c is sufficient to ensure
that when meter puller 310 is engaged with meter 326, as will be
hereinafter described, that third leg 355c will overlap a region of
base 327 as well as covering the terminal end 329c of dome 329.
[0089] Second locking lip 353b further includes a plurality of
strengthening ribs 359 (FIGS. 26 and 27) which extend between first
and third legs 355a, 355c. Ribs 359 are spaced at intervals between
the first and second side edges 355d, 355e of second locking lip
353b. Ribs 359 substantially prevent third leg 355c from being
deflected outwardly away from first leg 355a when meter puller 310
is used to extract meter 326 and thereby from becoming damaged or
failing during this operation.
[0090] FIG. 27 also shows that first and second side edges 355d,
355e of second locking lip 355 are generally V-shaped when viewed
from the back. A first circumferential region 361a of sleeve member
312 is defined between first side edge 355d of second locking lip
353b and first side edge 355f of first locking lip 353a; and a
second circumferential region 361b of sleeve member 312 is defined
between second side edge 355e of second locking lip 353b and second
side edge 355g of first locking lip 353a. These circumferential
regions 361a, 361b each constitute a gap 318 between first and
second locking lips 353a, 353b and shown in FIG. 25.
[0091] In accordance with another specific feature of the present
invention, it should be noted that each of first and second locking
lips 353a, 353b has a circumferential length "L3" (FIG. 27). This
circumferential length "L3" preferably comprises less than one
quarter of the circumference of the sleeve member 312. Typically,
the diameter of the first end 314 of meter 326 is about 51/2 inches
long, which correlates to a circumference of the first end 314 of
17.27 inches long. Preferably, length "L3" is about 4.3 inches long
circumferentially. (In the second embodiment of the invention, i.e.
meter puller 103, each of the locking lips 153 extends for more
than one quarter of the circumference of the sleeve member 112.)
The configuration of the first and second locking lips 353a, 353b
makes it easier for the meter puller 310 to be engaged with a meter
326 secured to meter mount 325 by way of gripping members 329 than
is the case with meter puller 103 if it is engaged by similar
gripping members. This is because the increased size of gaps 318
(FIG. 25) defined by first and second circumferential regions 361a,
361b of meter puller 310 over the size of the gaps 161 (FIG. 10) in
meter puller 103. Each gap 318 is of a circumferential length "L4"
that preferably is more than one quarter of the circumference of
sleeve member 312. Preferably length "L4" is greater than 4.3
inches long circumferentially. The increased size gaps 318 ensures
that there will be substantially less likelihood of engaging one of
the gripping members 329 during engagement of the meter puller 310
with meter 326 than was the case with meter puller 103. This in
turn reduces the possibility of accidental electric discharge
during engagement. Additionally, the increased size of gaps 318
ensures that there is adequate space for any accidental electrical
discharge to vent therethrough, thus increasing the safety of meter
puller 310 over meter puller 103. The increased venting size of
gaps 318 enables meter puller 310 to be used without a shield,
although as indicated previously, a shield may be secured to meter
puller 310 without departing from the scope of the invention.
[0092] Additionally, it should be noted that the lengths "L2" of
third leg 355c of second locking lip 353b and the corresponding
third leg of first locking lip 353a are longer than the third legs
155c (FIG. 10) of meter puller 103. This increased length aids in
ensuring that a portion of the back surface 328b of base 327 is
engaged by third legs 355c. Thus, in the instances where the second
region 329b of dome 329 is damaged, there is still sufficient
engagement between meter puller 310 and meter 326 for meter 326 to
be detached from meter mount 325.
[0093] FIG. 28 shows meter puller 310 engaged with a meter 426.
Meter 426 is substantially identical to meter 326 with the
exception that the dome is directly secured to base 427 directly
instead of being secured by way of a bezel such as the second
region 329b shown in FIG. 25. The locking lips 353a, 353b of meter
puller 310 extend around the peripheral edge 428c of base 427 and
the third legs 355c of locking lips 353a, 353b abut back surface
428b. Meter 426 may end up in this configuration if the bezel that
is normally part of dome breaks off dome and base 427 remains
engaged with stabs mounts 333. In this situation it would be even
more dangerous for the operator to attempt to remove meter 426
without the protection provided by meter puller 310.
[0094] Meter puller 310 is used in the much the same manner as
meter puller 103. The operator pulls actuation handle 377 in the
opposite direction to arrow "B" (FIG. 24) to move first and second
sleeve portions 313, 315 away from each other. Because the actuator
rod 369 is maintained adjacent the side wall 313b of first sleeve
portion 313 by actuator guide 401, the motion of cam arm 337 is
more readily controlled than was the case with actuation device 169
of meter puller 103. Once the space between the first and second
sleeve portions 313, 315 and, more specifically, between first and
second locking lips 353a, 353b, has opened up to a sufficient
degree to receive meter 326 (or 426) into cavity 311, the operator
moves meter puller 310 toward meter 326 in the direction of arrow
"B".
[0095] Once first and second locking lips 353a, 353b are positioned
radially outwardly of second region 329b of dome 329, actuator rod
369 is pushed inwardly toward meter mount 325 in the direction of
arrow "B". Once again, because of the restraining action of
actuator guide 401, this linear motion of actuator rod 369 is more
controlled than was the case in actuation device 169 in meter
puller 103. The linear motion of actuator rod 369 causes cam arm
337 to be rotated and this motion translates into movement of first
and second sleeve portions 313, 315. First and second locking lips
353a, 353b move inwardly back toward each other and thereby close
around second region 329b of dome 329 (or around the peripheral
edge 428c of base 427). In this engagement procedure, the increased
size gaps 318 between the edges 355d-355g of locking lips 353a,
353b ensures that bracing members 339 on meter mount 325 are
adequately and easily cleared.
[0096] Once meter puller 310 is fully engaged with meter 326 (426),
the operator will pull meter puller 310 in the direction of arrow
"C" (FIGS. 25 and 28). The longer length third legs 355c will
engage adjacent regions of base 327 (427) and will move the base
327 (427) in the direction of arrow "C". This motion pulls base 327
off stabs mounts 333 and breaks the bracing contact of bracing
members 339 and side region 329d of dome 329 (or peripheral edge
428c of base 427). It should be noted that in the motions of moving
meter puller 310 toward meter 326 or away therefrom, the operator
is able to grasp both handle 324 and handle 403 to more steadily
guide the movement of meter puller 310. This ensures that the
engagement of meter puller 310 with meter 326 and the subsequent
removable of meter 326 with meter puller 310 is conducted in a
manner that is less likely to result in accidental electric
discharge.
[0097] It will be understood that while the above description
identifies how meter 326 may be removed from its engagement with
meter mount 325, the steps used to remove meter 326 may be reversed
to install the same on meter mount 325. Thus, meter puller 310 may
be used to both remove and install electrical power meter 326 in a
safe fashion.
[0098] Accordingly, the power meter puller with safety shield is an
effective, safe, inexpensive, and efficient device that achieves
all the enumerated objectives of the invention, provides for
eliminating difficulties encountered with prior art devices,
systems, and methods, and solves problems and obtains new results
in the art.
[0099] In the foregoing description, certain terms have been used
for brevity, clearness, and understanding; but no unnecessary
limitations are to be implied therefrom beyond the requirement of
the prior art, because such terms are used for descriptive purposes
and are intended to be broadly construed.
[0100] Moreover, the description and illustration of the invention
is by way of example, and the scope of the invention is not limited
to the exact details shown or described.
[0101] Having now described the features, discoveries, and
principles of the invention, the manner in which the power meter
puller with safety shield is constructed and used, the
characteristics of the construction, and the advantageous new and
useful results obtained; the new and useful structures, devices,
elements, arrangement, parts, and combinations are set forth in the
appended claims.
* * * * *