Electric meter including a switch cover lockable in an open position

摘要

An electric meter includes a housing, a switch positioned within an opening in the housing, a hinge pin having a first cross-sectional shape and being connected to the housing, and a switch cover having a passageway receiving the hinge pin therein and permitting pivotal movement of said switch cover between a closed position and an open position. The passageway has a second cross-sectional shape cooperating with the first cross-sectional shape of the hinge pin for locking the switch cover in the open position. The hinge pin preferably includes a generally cylindrical shaft and a ridge extending longitudinally thereon to define the first cross-sectional shape. Accordingly, the passageway of the switch cover is preferably defined by a generally cylindrical portion with a first longitudinally extending channel in communication therewith to define the second cross-sectional shape. The passageway may also include a second longitudinal channel cooperating with the ridge to lock the switch cover in the closed position.