Patent ID: 8040664
Filing Date: 2011-10-18
Classification: G01R,H01H

Abstract:
1. A utility meter having a service disconnect switch integrated into the base thereof, said meter comprising: a base integrally including high current circuit elements corresponding to a line side terminal assembly and a load side terminal assembly, each respectively configured for insertion into a utility meter socket; a conductive support coupled to said line side terminal assembly; contacts supported on said conductive support; at least two pairs of spring elements respectively connected at one end thereof to the meter load terminal, with the opposite ends of said spring elements carrying contacts configured for cooperation with said contacts supported on said conductive support, so as to form contact pairs of a switch; a flux-concentrating current sensing core supported on said conductive support for measurement of current flow through said high current circuit elements; a solenoid having a movable actuator; and an insulative wedge configured to be moved by said movable actuator for travel between portions of the spring element pairs to thereby separate corresponding contact pairs, for interrupting any current flow through said high current circuit elements.