US 12,283,396 B2
Low profile watertight connector and method of using the same
Mark E. Marshall, Glen Allen, VA (US)
Assigned to DOMINION ENERGY, INC.
Filed by DOMINION ENERGY, INC., Richmond, VA (US)
Filed on Nov. 8, 2021, as Appl. No. 17/521,839.
Claims priority of provisional application 63/111,422, filed on Nov. 9, 2020.
Prior Publication US 2022/0148765 A1, May 12, 2022
Int. Cl. H01B 17/58 (2006.01); H01B 17/26 (2006.01); H01B 17/30 (2006.01); H02G 1/08 (2006.01); H02G 3/08 (2006.01)
CPC H01B 17/583 (2013.01) [H01B 17/265 (2013.01); H01B 17/301 (2013.01); H02G 1/08 (2013.01); H02G 3/083 (2013.01)] 17 Claims
OG exemplary drawing
 
1. A connector adapted to secure an electrical power line entering an electrical meter box, the connector comprising:
a cylindrical member having a longitudinal through-hole, a first male threaded portion, and a second male threaded portion, the cylindrical member adapted to be at least partially inserted into the meter box through an access hole defined in a wall of the meter box;
a flange affixed to or integral with a first end of the cylindrical member, the flange having a through-hole aligned with the through-hole of the cylindrical member, the flange adapted to remain outside of the meter box when the cylindrical member is at least partially inserted into the meter box, the flange adapted to abut an outer surface of the wall of the meter box or to abut a gasket sandwiched between the flange and the outer surface of the wall of the meter box;
a connector nut that is left-handed threaded and threaded onto the first male threaded portion;
a grommet nut having an inner surface that is female threaded and an inwardly protecting circumferential lip;
a cupped washer, wherein the circumferential lip holds the cupped washer in place and the cupped washer in turn holds the grommet in place; and
a cylindrical grommet having a longitudinal through-hole, the grommet selectively insertable at least partially into a second end of the cylindrical member and securable therein;
wherein the flange through-hole, the cylindrical member through-hole, and the grommet through-hole are all adapted for the power line to pass as the power line enters the meter box.