Authors : A. Ogohi; I. C. Awe; J. N. Sambo; I. Ajigbon; O. B. Goodtalk

Volume/Issue : Volume 11 - 2026, Issue 4 - April

Google Scholar : https://tinyurl.com/5eyu98u2

Scribd : https://tinyurl.com/yhx9yw73

DOI : https://doi.org/10.38124/ijisrt/26apr1884

Note : A published paper may take 4-5 working days from the publication date to appear in PlumX Metrics, Semantic Scholar, and ResearchGate.

Abstract : Energy efficiency and reliable switching are critical requirements in modern prepaid electricity metering systems, where continuous operation and minimal power loss are essential. Conventional electromagnetic relays commonly used for load control require constant coil excitation to maintain their switching state, leading to unnecessary energy consumption and reduced system efficiency. This study addresses the problem of excessive power usage in traditional relay-based switching systems. The goal is to design, implement, and experimentally evaluate a mechanical latching relay that significantly reduces energy consumption while ensuring reliable performance. The proposed system utilizes a bistable mechanical latching relay controlled by a microcontroller-based driver circuit. Unlike conventional relays, the latching relay consumes power only during switching operations (SET/RESET), eliminating continuous energy draw. The methodology involves hardware implementation, integration with a control unit, and experimental testing under varying load conditions. Key parameters evaluated include switching time, energy consumption, and thermal performance.

Keywords : Mechanical Latching Relay, Prepaid Electricity Meter, Energy Efficiency, Bistable Relay, Low-Power Switching, Embedded Systems.

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