Patent ID: 8258977
Filing Date: 2012-09-04
Classification: G01F,H01Q,H04Q

Abstract:
1. A manhole cover for use with a system for transmitting data to an above surface receiver, the data representing an environmental parameter in a manhole enclosure, the manhole cover comprising: a body suitable for covering a manhole, at least a portion of the body is formed from a radio wave penetrable material so that radio waves may pass through the body; a microprocessor for receiving a signal representing at least one environmental parameter measured by a sensor, and for responding to the signal by directly or indirectly causing a change to a parameter in the manhole enclosure; a transmitting element in communication with the microprocessor and effective for transmitting the signal to the surface above the manhole cover; wherein said microprocessor and said circuitry and said power source are contained in a housing, and the housing is attached to the body of the manhole cover; wherein the radio wavepenetrable material is a composite formed from a mixture of substances selected from the group consisting of polyester, glass fiber, epoxies, vinyl ester resins, and foam; circuitry connecting the microprocessor and the transmitting element for driving the transmitting element to transmit the signal; and a power source for powering the microprocessor and the circuitry.