Patent ID: 7283063
Filing Date: 2007-10-16
Classification: G01D,Y02B,Y04S

Abstract:
1. A communication apparatus for transmitting data from a utility meter to a remote location wherein the utility meter is installed in an underground pit enclosure associated with a pit lid that is generally at ground level, said pit lid having an opening there through, said communication apparatus comprising: an enclosure having a top-section and a depending base, wherein said top-section rests generally on top of the pit lid and wherein said depending base extends from said top-section to a point at least partly through the pit lid opening; a circuit board comprising a transmitter, said circuit board disposed at least partially inside the top-section and substantially co-planar with said top-section; a power source associated with said circuit board and configured for supplying power to said circuit board; a transmitter-meter communication link for transferring system-data between the transmitter and the meter; an antenna situated at least partially inside the top-section, said antenna associated with said transmitter whereby data-signals generated by said transmitter are propagated by said antenna to a remote location; and wherein said data-signals comprise at least part of said system-data.