System and method for tamper detection in a utility meter

摘要

Systems and methods for detecting the removal of a meter cover are provided. For example, a tamper-detect energy meter may include metering circuitry, a processor, a tamper detect switch, and a cover with a switch interface surface. The tamper detect switch may be triggered from an open circuit state to a closed circuit state as the switch interface surface of the cover contacts the tamper detect switch during removal.

主权项

1. A utility meter, comprising:
metering circuitry configured to monitor consumption of a utility; a tamper detect switch protruding away from the metering circuitry and operable to switch from an open circuit state to a closed circuit state; and a meter cover disposed over at least a portion of the metering circuitry, wherein the meter cover comprises a switch interface surface disposed on a surface of the meter cover facing the metering circuitry, wherein the switch interface surface protrudes toward the metering circuitry such that the tamper detect switch physically contacts the switch interface surface during removal of the meter cover from the utility meter to cause the switch to change from the open circuit state to the closed circuit state; wherein the utility meter is configured to generate a signal indicative of the meter cover removal when the switch changes from the open circuit state to the closed circuit state.