CA2628118A1 - Automated meter reader direct mount endpoint module - Google Patents
Automated meter reader direct mount endpoint module Download PDFInfo
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- CA2628118A1 CA2628118A1 CA002628118A CA2628118A CA2628118A1 CA 2628118 A1 CA2628118 A1 CA 2628118A1 CA 002628118 A CA002628118 A CA 002628118A CA 2628118 A CA2628118 A CA 2628118A CA 2628118 A1 CA2628118 A1 CA 2628118A1
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- Prior art keywords
- meter
- interface
- housing
- index
- attachment
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Classifications
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- G—PHYSICS
- G01—MEASURING; TESTING
- G01D—MEASURING NOT SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR A SPECIFIC VARIABLE; ARRANGEMENTS FOR MEASURING TWO OR MORE VARIABLES NOT COVERED IN A SINGLE OTHER SUBCLASS; TARIFF METERING APPARATUS; MEASURING OR TESTING NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- G01D4/00—Tariff metering apparatus
- G01D4/008—Modifications to installed utility meters to enable remote reading
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y02—TECHNOLOGIES OR APPLICATIONS FOR MITIGATION OR ADAPTATION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE
- Y02B—CLIMATE CHANGE MITIGATION TECHNOLOGIES RELATED TO BUILDINGS, e.g. HOUSING, HOUSE APPLIANCES OR RELATED END-USER APPLICATIONS
- Y02B90/00—Enabling technologies or technologies with a potential or indirect contribution to GHG emissions mitigation
- Y02B90/20—Smart grids as enabling technology in buildings sector
-
- Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
- Y04—INFORMATION OR COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGIES HAVING AN IMPACT ON OTHER TECHNOLOGY AREAS
- Y04S—SYSTEMS INTEGRATING TECHNOLOGIES RELATED TO POWER NETWORK OPERATION, COMMUNICATION OR INFORMATION TECHNOLOGIES FOR IMPROVING THE ELECTRICAL POWER GENERATION, TRANSMISSION, DISTRIBUTION, MANAGEMENT OR USAGE, i.e. SMART GRIDS
- Y04S20/00—Management or operation of end-user stationary applications or the last stages of power distribution; Controlling, monitoring or operating thereof
- Y04S20/30—Smart metering, e.g. specially adapted for remote reading
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- General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
- Measuring Volume Flow (AREA)
- Arrangements For Transmission Of Measured Signals (AREA)
- Details Of Flowmeters (AREA)
Abstract
An automated meter reader module can be operably connected to alt existing utility meter to provide an endpoint for use in an automated meter reader system. The automated meter reader module can utilize an index attachment drive mechanism to electronically and mechanically monitor consumption of a utility such as water, gas, or electricity. The index attachment of the existing utility meter is attached so that it does not physically impede reception or transmission of radio frequency communication by a patch antenna integrated into a printed circuit board located inside the automated meter reader module. A gasket around the edge of the housing sealingly interfaces with the existing utility meter and a multi-faced cover that allows the registered dials located on the index attached to be viewed from a plurality of vantage points.
Description
AUTOMATED 1lETER READER 1?!!REUT MOUNT E.N~n-MNT4tOTJUX.E
Baeicground of the Invention Utility oorYtpanies typically measure consumption data by reading meters located at a sei Y-ice point, or endpoint, on customc:s' propert"ses. To determine mo7tMly natural gas c<,.n t-rnption. for example, the nvimer:c=<,i difference between a met2r .iie start of a month and at the end of the month reveals the sunotutt of natural gas consumed. Utility companies can similarly measure customers' consumption of water and electricity. Using this information, utility companies are then able to bill customers based upon a price per unit of water,, gas, or electricity. Icslornwtion derived from meter readers can also assist utility companies in mapping seasonal and daily consumption habits of their customers.
Traditioca[ty, utility companies have obtained eonsumption information by individualty visiting customers' propcrties to physicafty read metsrs. Since the frequcncy of ineter readers typically mirrors billing cycles, utility company commonly need to revisit the same meter on a monthly or semi-annual basis to obtain consumption information. In the United States alone, ilie annual cost to utility companies of reading water, gas, and electric meters is approxiniately $3 N'S:Ich c!f tl:is c..: t ;, . ... . . ,.._.
J ...,.
co anecer neographically remotc locations, ar:d co;t o: wages ri;;a. ...~ ,.._. .,.... .
c.:r a;.: ;
spend on individual meter readers is expected to climb.
Utility meter systems that require manual readings of constimption data represent a significant contributor to these rising costs and are marked by a number of other disadvantages.
Thesc disadvantagcs includo a high incidence of reader error, exposure of individuals who read meters to safety hazards, the ease with which consumer can tamper with a meter reader, a~
inability to detect meter tampering, diffic..tlty of obtaining consumption data at odd or inconvenient hours of the day, and an inaccessibility of meter readers due to dangerous dogs, locked gates,.or angry customers.
To avoid some or all of the problems associated with manually obtaining meter readers.
utilities companies have begun implementing automated meter reader (AMR) systems, also referred to as rernote mcter reader systems. Gencratly, AMR systetns reduce or elirninate the need to visually inspect individual utility meters to obtain consumption data.
This gives utility companies an opportunity to realize long-term cost savings, improve operational efficiencies, provide estimated bilts that are more accurate, and build a tneter-reading infrastructure adaptable to the companics'. evolving needs.
In operation. AMR systems utilize an endpoint to communicate a signal representative of a utility meter reader to a remote reading device or network. Consumption data cantt2en be incorporated into a data-colleetion system. Communication between the AMR
endpoint and remote reading device is normmliy aocompli,shed by radio frequency (RF). For example, most traditionr:t meter endpoints employ a ieadi}} ; rhat uses the bein- ,11ch as t;,li,; or watt-ho,.rs. to power..n w_. :
dial on an index anachment. As a utility is consnmed, rotations of an internal drive shaft change the readings of the rcgistcr dials. In somc AMiZ systems, a small modult can be mountcd on the face of the. existing meter reader such that the rotations of the internal drive shaft cause an electmrric signal to be produced. As described in U.S. Patent Applicatioa No.
2003l0151886 by Buht, an AMR-compatible -meter reader mcidute may inctude interfaces on opposite sides of a r =
meter reader module drive shaft for rotationally communicattng with and between the register index aad the nicter. The intercepted rotations may then be transiuiued by a transmitter to various remote reading devices or networks by RF communication.
One of the biggest chalfenges a utility company faces in implementing an AMR
system is converting traditional mechanically read meter endpoi:its into AMR meter cndpoints. In particular, the cost of implementing AMR technoiogy can be great since a utility company must individually set up AMR-compatible meter endpoints for each customer. Since a total replacenunt qf a traditional meter endpoint may be costly, dangemus, and unnecessarily interrupt a, customer's utility servitx, AMR endpoints have been designed to substantiatly =
pnserve and, in fact, utilize the structure and functionality of existing utility meters.
Since several years are typically required for a utility company's reduced meter reading expenses to cover the coats of installing and implementing an AMR system, frequent repair or replacement of endpoint can reduce or negate the cost-saving benefit of an AMR
system.
Therefore, there is a need forlow-cost automated meter reader modules that can be insr lled quickly and easily, resist degradation due to environmental conditions and usc, and can be used "1 ~nUtt~~ti~ ~l~lf~ '~:~_': !;?E(~CttiLCQ~.~fCTIOR. - = ~.
Summarrof the Invention 'Ihe preserit iriventian meets the aforernentior:eu rIxeJs of the industry, in particul'~;
providing art e.utoraatecl nneter reader (AMR) dirtct mount endpoint module.
The AMR mo:1u?c can be mour.ted onto an existing utility meter so as to utiJize the utility meter's index and meter drive mechanisrns to electronically and visually coc;umption of a trtility such as water, gas, or electricity. The AMR module may be compatible with the index attachment previously used to read the existing utility meter sucb that the AMR module is effcctively mountcd betwccn the meter drive mechanisms of the meter and the index attachment that displays readings associated with the md.er. The AMR module in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention has a patch antenna that is arranged to provi4e bettec trarissuission and reception of RF signals and the components of the AMR rnoauie are. protected within an environmentally rugged enetosure that can be operably connected to the meter while the nxter is in opaation ami can be removed from oxt remounted without the need of a new sealing ntember.
The AMR module will generally include a housing portion. The housing omprises several watls that #oran at Icast one h6us6rg cavity. The number and location of theses walls cart be changed according to different cmbodiments to form various sub-cavities of different size and sttape within the main housing cavity. A housing main cavity may contain, for example, a battery, a printed circuiE board, or other components associated with the automated meter reader systems. The housing portion also comprises a generally planar base adapted to be mounted onto [5 the existing utility meter.
, =, . . ., ~ ..
. .,. _ .,:, , ... , ., _ . ~ r . ,. . . w , .. . .. , . ,: ...,.. : _ , . ' t . , ',,,. ~.~ritYf'f1 ~n '1=. . .. , l'.T.i' i~ . . . '1 ,. , .. .. _ ... . . . .[,~..... . . ~ . _ . .. = . .
, .
housing so that it covers both the housing cavity and aii index attacirment secured to a pair' of rnounting posts on t}. Ia one ernbodis:~Lnt, the se~=eral transparent faces through whieh rcgister dials or displays on the index attachxnent can be viewed. In one embodiment, a substantially planar front surface and a curvcd uppcc surfacc, for example, may permit a viewer to read ditds located on the index attach from various vantage points.
Baeicground of the Invention Utility oorYtpanies typically measure consumption data by reading meters located at a sei Y-ice point, or endpoint, on customc:s' propert"ses. To determine mo7tMly natural gas c<,.n t-rnption. for example, the nvimer:c=<,i difference between a met2r .iie start of a month and at the end of the month reveals the sunotutt of natural gas consumed. Utility companies can similarly measure customers' consumption of water and electricity. Using this information, utility companies are then able to bill customers based upon a price per unit of water,, gas, or electricity. Icslornwtion derived from meter readers can also assist utility companies in mapping seasonal and daily consumption habits of their customers.
Traditioca[ty, utility companies have obtained eonsumption information by individualty visiting customers' propcrties to physicafty read metsrs. Since the frequcncy of ineter readers typically mirrors billing cycles, utility company commonly need to revisit the same meter on a monthly or semi-annual basis to obtain consumption information. In the United States alone, ilie annual cost to utility companies of reading water, gas, and electric meters is approxiniately $3 N'S:Ich c!f tl:is c..: t ;, . ... . . ,.._.
J ...,.
co anecer neographically remotc locations, ar:d co;t o: wages ri;;a. ...~ ,.._. .,.... .
c.:r a;.: ;
spend on individual meter readers is expected to climb.
Utility meter systems that require manual readings of constimption data represent a significant contributor to these rising costs and are marked by a number of other disadvantages.
Thesc disadvantagcs includo a high incidence of reader error, exposure of individuals who read meters to safety hazards, the ease with which consumer can tamper with a meter reader, a~
inability to detect meter tampering, diffic..tlty of obtaining consumption data at odd or inconvenient hours of the day, and an inaccessibility of meter readers due to dangerous dogs, locked gates,.or angry customers.
To avoid some or all of the problems associated with manually obtaining meter readers.
utilities companies have begun implementing automated meter reader (AMR) systems, also referred to as rernote mcter reader systems. Gencratly, AMR systetns reduce or elirninate the need to visually inspect individual utility meters to obtain consumption data.
This gives utility companies an opportunity to realize long-term cost savings, improve operational efficiencies, provide estimated bilts that are more accurate, and build a tneter-reading infrastructure adaptable to the companics'. evolving needs.
In operation. AMR systems utilize an endpoint to communicate a signal representative of a utility meter reader to a remote reading device or network. Consumption data cantt2en be incorporated into a data-colleetion system. Communication between the AMR
endpoint and remote reading device is normmliy aocompli,shed by radio frequency (RF). For example, most traditionr:t meter endpoints employ a ieadi}} ; rhat uses the bein- ,11ch as t;,li,; or watt-ho,.rs. to power..n w_. :
dial on an index anachment. As a utility is consnmed, rotations of an internal drive shaft change the readings of the rcgistcr dials. In somc AMiZ systems, a small modult can be mountcd on the face of the. existing meter reader such that the rotations of the internal drive shaft cause an electmrric signal to be produced. As described in U.S. Patent Applicatioa No.
2003l0151886 by Buht, an AMR-compatible -meter reader mcidute may inctude interfaces on opposite sides of a r =
meter reader module drive shaft for rotationally communicattng with and between the register index aad the nicter. The intercepted rotations may then be transiuiued by a transmitter to various remote reading devices or networks by RF communication.
One of the biggest chalfenges a utility company faces in implementing an AMR
system is converting traditional mechanically read meter endpoi:its into AMR meter cndpoints. In particular, the cost of implementing AMR technoiogy can be great since a utility company must individually set up AMR-compatible meter endpoints for each customer. Since a total replacenunt qf a traditional meter endpoint may be costly, dangemus, and unnecessarily interrupt a, customer's utility servitx, AMR endpoints have been designed to substantiatly =
pnserve and, in fact, utilize the structure and functionality of existing utility meters.
Since several years are typically required for a utility company's reduced meter reading expenses to cover the coats of installing and implementing an AMR system, frequent repair or replacement of endpoint can reduce or negate the cost-saving benefit of an AMR
system.
Therefore, there is a need forlow-cost automated meter reader modules that can be insr lled quickly and easily, resist degradation due to environmental conditions and usc, and can be used "1 ~nUtt~~ti~ ~l~lf~ '~:~_': !;?E(~CttiLCQ~.~fCTIOR. - = ~.
Summarrof the Invention 'Ihe preserit iriventian meets the aforernentior:eu rIxeJs of the industry, in particul'~;
providing art e.utoraatecl nneter reader (AMR) dirtct mount endpoint module.
The AMR mo:1u?c can be mour.ted onto an existing utility meter so as to utiJize the utility meter's index and meter drive mechanisrns to electronically and visually coc;umption of a trtility such as water, gas, or electricity. The AMR module may be compatible with the index attachment previously used to read the existing utility meter sucb that the AMR module is effcctively mountcd betwccn the meter drive mechanisms of the meter and the index attachment that displays readings associated with the md.er. The AMR module in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention has a patch antenna that is arranged to provi4e bettec trarissuission and reception of RF signals and the components of the AMR rnoauie are. protected within an environmentally rugged enetosure that can be operably connected to the meter while the nxter is in opaation ami can be removed from oxt remounted without the need of a new sealing ntember.
The AMR module will generally include a housing portion. The housing omprises several watls that #oran at Icast one h6us6rg cavity. The number and location of theses walls cart be changed according to different cmbodiments to form various sub-cavities of different size and sttape within the main housing cavity. A housing main cavity may contain, for example, a battery, a printed circuiE board, or other components associated with the automated meter reader systems. The housing portion also comprises a generally planar base adapted to be mounted onto [5 the existing utility meter.
, =, . . ., ~ ..
. .,. _ .,:, , ... , ., _ . ~ r . ,. . . w , .. . .. , . ,: ...,.. : _ , . ' t . , ',,,. ~.~ritYf'f1 ~n '1=. . .. , l'.T.i' i~ . . . '1 ,. , .. .. _ ... . . . .[,~..... . . ~ . _ . .. = . .
, .
housing so that it covers both the housing cavity and aii index attacirment secured to a pair' of rnounting posts on t}. Ia one ernbodis:~Lnt, the se~=eral transparent faces through whieh rcgister dials or displays on the index attachxnent can be viewed. In one embodiment, a substantially planar front surface and a curvcd uppcc surfacc, for example, may permit a viewer to read ditds located on the index attach from various vantage points.
Exposing an AMR module to water and other environmental stresses will generally adversely affoet the dttrability and long-term ,perforrttance of the module and the automated meter reader system. To protect the electronic circuitry and other sensitive components housing in the AMR mWu1e, the module can be fitted with a gasket substantially impermeable to water.
S The gasket seals the interface of the base and the existing utility meter 1~c ir.tcrface of thc basc and the cover: Normally, tue gaskct is attached to the main housi::6, a:ulig the pcrimeter based. In one embodiment, the AMR module is provided with a sealing gasket that is releasabte and reseatable. In another embodiment, the cover of the AMR module is canted at a slightty outwardly downward angle retative to the base and includes water drain apertures proximate a bottom outward-mmost portion of the covar. These water drain apertures are dimensioned to perrnit effeetive drainage of aay water or condensation within the cover, while genecally precluding access to the interior of the cover by insects, for example.
To optxate as part of an autornatecl meter reuder system, an endp:)int :hat is pari of the AMR module will getterally include a printed circuit board. The printed cincuit board may have or be in communication with an encoder, a receiver, and a transmitter. The printed circuit board . 1S i~'~~c;!~tV 1,~~~,e,~=l .l,t F,ln a... ~. .- . ~~'. T*' .. -- . .. ~ , =
. . . - . , ', .~ _ t .
r'=:1' ..
members force the printed circuit board against portions ol'the wnlis forrning the hotising cnvitv, f.IiPlFhv c11hSC7nttltly ceCt=t'PE: ': a C rC'13t f'oA:d in Y:ui . liso be added to the main housing cavity to stabilize and further.protect the printcd circuit board.
In one embodiment, the receiving and transmitting functions of thc atitomatecl meter tender direct mount endpoint module tme generally perfotrned by a patch antcnna. In an cxatnple m bodi:ncr.t, tile automated meter read di,ect :r.cunt endpoint rnodule comprises a p:-ch antenna integrated into a printed circuit board. The patch antenna will typically be located at or near one end of the printed circuit board. The prir.ier? circuit board is typically located within a main housing cavity and secured at least partia! ly between the base and the index attachment. The patch ar:tc,nna. however, occupies a portior_ <..'t(;e housing cavity extending beyc.-õ'. :'.;. z~eruneter of tEre area of the existing utifity meter the automated meter reader attached.
In this matuter, physical interferen<x by thc index attachittent and/or meter with mdio frequency communications received by and transmitted from the patch antentta may be reduced.
In one embodiment, the encoding function of. the endpoint of tht AMR module is generally perforined by a wrigglec in communication with a switch located on the printed circuit board. The wriggler has a meter interface mechanism adapted to matingly engage a rotating tneter intzrface of the existing utility meter and an index interface mechanism adapted to matingly engage an index interface of the index attachment. In one embodimerzt, the wriggler and interfaces are arraaged to permit installation of the AWIIt module while the meter is operating by the design of the tnating int:rface on the wriggler to permit mating while the ..,...~~ ... .~. .. .. . ... .. .... ' _ ' . . .
..':thoitgh t!te nrese::t invention is 1 ~l~ Cc naCte:
trrri used to R1oI11ior aaS c 't.>. L.'.il it:~.
used in monitoring consumption of other utilities, such as gas and electricity, without cleparting froitt tilc spirit and scope of the present inve:a:c:..
S The gasket seals the interface of the base and the existing utility meter 1~c ir.tcrface of thc basc and the cover: Normally, tue gaskct is attached to the main housi::6, a:ulig the pcrimeter based. In one embodiment, the AMR module is provided with a sealing gasket that is releasabte and reseatable. In another embodiment, the cover of the AMR module is canted at a slightty outwardly downward angle retative to the base and includes water drain apertures proximate a bottom outward-mmost portion of the covar. These water drain apertures are dimensioned to perrnit effeetive drainage of aay water or condensation within the cover, while genecally precluding access to the interior of the cover by insects, for example.
To optxate as part of an autornatecl meter reuder system, an endp:)int :hat is pari of the AMR module will getterally include a printed circuit board. The printed cincuit board may have or be in communication with an encoder, a receiver, and a transmitter. The printed circuit board . 1S i~'~~c;!~tV 1,~~~,e,~=l .l,t F,ln a... ~. .- . ~~'. T*' .. -- . .. ~ , =
. . . - . , ', .~ _ t .
r'=:1' ..
members force the printed circuit board against portions ol'the wnlis forrning the hotising cnvitv, f.IiPlFhv c11hSC7nttltly ceCt=t'PE: ': a C rC'13t f'oA:d in Y:ui . liso be added to the main housing cavity to stabilize and further.protect the printcd circuit board.
In one embodiment, the receiving and transmitting functions of thc atitomatecl meter tender direct mount endpoint module tme generally perfotrned by a patch antcnna. In an cxatnple m bodi:ncr.t, tile automated meter read di,ect :r.cunt endpoint rnodule comprises a p:-ch antenna integrated into a printed circuit board. The patch antenna will typically be located at or near one end of the printed circuit board. The prir.ier? circuit board is typically located within a main housing cavity and secured at least partia! ly between the base and the index attachment. The patch ar:tc,nna. however, occupies a portior_ <..'t(;e housing cavity extending beyc.-õ'. :'.;. z~eruneter of tEre area of the existing utifity meter the automated meter reader attached.
In this matuter, physical interferen<x by thc index attachittent and/or meter with mdio frequency communications received by and transmitted from the patch antentta may be reduced.
In one embodiment, the encoding function of. the endpoint of tht AMR module is generally perforined by a wrigglec in communication with a switch located on the printed circuit board. The wriggler has a meter interface mechanism adapted to matingly engage a rotating tneter intzrface of the existing utility meter and an index interface mechanism adapted to matingly engage an index interface of the index attachment. In one embodimerzt, the wriggler and interfaces are arraaged to permit installation of the AWIIt module while the meter is operating by the design of the tnating int:rface on the wriggler to permit mating while the ..,...~~ ... .~. .. .. . ... .. .... ' _ ' . . .
..':thoitgh t!te nrese::t invention is 1 ~l~ Cc naCte:
trrri used to R1oI11ior aaS c 't.>. L.'.il it:~.
used in monitoring consumption of other utilities, such as gas and electricity, without cleparting froitt tilc spirit and scope of the present inve:a:c:..
The above surnm:ary of the present invention is not intended to describe each ernbodi;nent or every implementation of the present invention. The igurea and the detailed description that follow morc particularly cxemplify thesc cmbodirnerus.
BBIF.EDF- QRiPTiQ1Y OF THE DRAWINGS
r.,,~-.,,.,,:~ : ' cs an exploded perspective i,::=.: c' ..; automated meterreader r;,uc.t,1:: as Jh,;
automated meter reader atoduta would be attachW to and a utitity meter.
Figure 2 is an exploded perspeetive view of an automated meter reader nsodule according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 3 is an exploded perspective view of an automated meter neader module according to an eirtbodiment of the present invention.
Figure 4 is a side view of an automated meter reader endpoint having an automated meter reader module according to an embodiment of the pt-esent invention.
Figure 5 is a front view of an automated meter reader endpoint having an automated t..
meter reader moduk according to an embodimcnt of the prescttt imention.
Figure 6 is a top view of an automated meter reader endpoint havurg an automated meter E_IIC ,.. .. c~.4! Tt) :I:: .:~:l~Odilae n. C
is aft iilustrat:,)t uf .in index -.u illustratiort of an index att:c,_ Figure 9 is an illustration of the inter-connnected gear mechanisms of an index attachment and a utility meter.
BBIF.EDF- QRiPTiQ1Y OF THE DRAWINGS
r.,,~-.,,.,,:~ : ' cs an exploded perspective i,::=.: c' ..; automated meterreader r;,uc.t,1:: as Jh,;
automated meter reader atoduta would be attachW to and a utitity meter.
Figure 2 is an exploded perspeetive view of an automated meter reader nsodule according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 3 is an exploded perspective view of an automated meter neader module according to an eirtbodiment of the present invention.
Figure 4 is a side view of an automated meter reader endpoint having an automated meter reader module according to an embodiment of the pt-esent invention.
Figure 5 is a front view of an automated meter reader endpoint having an automated t..
meter reader moduk according to an embodimcnt of the prescttt imention.
Figure 6 is a top view of an automated meter reader endpoint havurg an automated meter E_IIC ,.. .. c~.4! Tt) :I:: .:~:l~Odilae n. C
is aft iilustrat:,)t uf .in index -.u illustratiort of an index att:c,_ Figure 9 is an illustration of the inter-connnected gear mechanisms of an index attachment and a utility meter.
Figure 10 is a petspective view of a meter interface rnechanism according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 1I is a perspective view of a meter interfacx mechttnism according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 12 is a cross-sectional side view of a cruss secti~n of a meter interface iiiechanisin according to an embodirn=t of the present inventio:t:
Figure 13 is an elevational view of a aide of a meter interface mechanisnn aocording to an embodiment of the present inventim Figure L4 is a side view of a meter interface mechanism according to an embodiment of ttte preaeot iftvention.
Figure 15 is an clevational view of a side of a meter intr.rfEtce mechanism aeuordnng to an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 16 is a perspective view of a meter interface mechanism according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 17 is a perspective view of a meter interface tniec3tactism according to an .1.. ,.T. ._.. ..F t. . . . .. =.... .l,..., . .
F-t!'r". ~..1 "t ._',v Ol ;! .... .'=r ~T,tt_i.. _, ..i . .. . , ...,. . ~P~k~
-._. . , . , , _.._.i ... . , Fi'Sjllic 1.) ij ~.. .~i:u, ai,~=ic.toà a side af a cti~t~;., ac'Ci ai;isl7k acCOr:~ino iU :1 cmbodimcnt of the present invention.
Fioure 20 is a rross-sectiQnai side view of a rrteter i;;tcrf,.c~ mechanism according to aA
embodiment of the present invencion.
Figure 1I is a perspective view of a meter interfacx mechttnism according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 12 is a cross-sectional side view of a cruss secti~n of a meter interface iiiechanisin according to an embodirn=t of the present inventio:t:
Figure 13 is an elevational view of a aide of a meter interface mechanisnn aocording to an embodiment of the present inventim Figure L4 is a side view of a meter interface mechanism according to an embodiment of ttte preaeot iftvention.
Figure 15 is an clevational view of a side of a meter intr.rfEtce mechanism aeuordnng to an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 16 is a perspective view of a meter interface mechanism according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 17 is a perspective view of a meter interface tniec3tactism according to an .1.. ,.T. ._.. ..F t. . . . .. =.... .l,..., . .
F-t!'r". ~..1 "t ._',v Ol ;! .... .'=r ~T,tt_i.. _, ..i . .. . , ...,. . ~P~k~
-._. . , . , , _.._.i ... . , Fi'Sjllic 1.) ij ~.. .~i:u, ai,~=ic.toà a side af a cti~t~;., ac'Ci ai;isl7k acCOr:~ino iU :1 cmbodimcnt of the present invention.
Fioure 20 is a rross-sectiQnai side view of a rrteter i;;tcrf,.c~ mechanism according to aA
embodiment of the present invencion.
Figure 21 is an eIevational view of a ineter interface mectiaoism accorcling to an embodiment of the present inventioa Figure 22 is a side view of a meter interface ntecharusm according to an enibexfiment af the pre.sent invention.
Figtire 23 is an elevational view of a mcter iiuerface mechaiiism acwrding to an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 24 is a cross-seetional side view of a meter inte.rface mechanism according to an embod'tment of the present invention.
Figure 25 is an elevational view of a meter interfaLe mechanism according to an embodiment of the prssent inventioa Figare. 26 is a perspoctivc view of an autornated meter reader module.
according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Ftgure 27 is a pmpective view of an autocnated meter reader module aecording to an embodiment of the present invention.
Fignre 28 is a read view of an aaomated meter reader module acxording to an 29 .. .i: . .. . .. . . , ~:i~ . . . ... . . - .
20' The invcntion can be more rcadily understood by reference to Figures 1-29 and the fotlo.vino descripticn. While ci c;iiventior, is not nccc:ssarily litiiitcd tc; s=.,~h an applicatior., the ~ " ~
invention will be better appreciated using a discussion of example embodiments iti sucli a specifte context.
Referring to Figures 1-6, automated meter reader module 40 comprises a housing 42, a cover 44, arW a patch antenna 46, in an example embodiment. Refenring to Figures 1, and 4-6, lutotnated meter reader module 40 is attaclteci to utility tneter 48 on mountistc srnLuture 50 at.
attachment arer. 52 to form autontated reter re :d; ca:ipoint 54.
Houaing 42 has a substantially planar base 56. On the front side of base 56, as depicted in Figures 1-3, base 56 has a phu-ality of walls 58. Walts 56 define housing cavity 60.
Depending upon how walls 58 are confi"gured, walls 58 may define a plurality of housing cavities 60. In an exannple embodiment, walls 58 define at least two housing sub-cavities 60a. 60b. As depicted in Figure 1, base 56 and walls 58 can be configured so housing sub-cavities 60a, 60b receive pcinted circuit board 62 and battery 64. Printed circuit board 62 generally comprises patch antenna 46 and eliectronic circeeitry 66. In an example embodiment, patch antenna 46 is integrated into printed circuit board 62. In other embodiments, an antenna may be separate from 15 electronic circuitry 66. In one embodiment, patch antenna 46 genesally comprises a printed ' . _ .,.. r ~e~"F. t~ , .,j F.t.. , _ .. .,.- .. . . .. .. _ . . - . .. , -.
. . - . . . ...
, y ...., iV ..., ... ., !:!k ~:.,.... _ _...!. ._.. ..: ,__.. .. ,.1..,.. ..
.... 4 , , .
f:o:.. tr) r0C110 L-t IuetlcV C'.'~1 . .. ....... ... ....:...... ..:.. _.
.:Ci .~d E'. ..._ _ ... .\.,,..
,fFrinted circuit board 62 cr.n b, in ::o: sinb sub-cavity Gi:a iu: ..;y :uuiber J f ways. In one embodiment, relative to automated meter reader module 40 that is installed on ttti:ity nicter 48, printed circuit boarcl 52 ii pos:tia:ted vertically in housing .= ct:ween left-ha+lcl mounting post.70 and right-hand mounting post 72, as depicted in Figures 1-3.
[n an cxamplc 1 , embodiment, printed circuit board 62 is verticatly o: ie,ited such that patch antenna 46 is above electroriic circuitry 66 in an instalted aatomated reader meter modttte 40. In this embodir.lent, patch antenna 46 occupies a portion of sub-cavity 60a that extends beyond the periineter of attacltment area 52 ofutility meter 48, as depicted in Figure 1.
Tn ve'nr.ral, printed circuit board 62 an(,j :~strery 04 should be fixedly secultd within hOU511S6 Clac iiy 6i}. Al:.11UUd:1 ln sOtrl require printed C Cu. . .t et and battery 64 to be removed, it is anticipated that printed circuit board 62 and battery 64 will remain in place for approximately the life of battery 64, such as, for example, around twenty years. This is typically accomplished by potting or fdling one or morc housing cavitics with a potting material.
To maintain the position of patch antenna 46, as well as electronic circuitry 66, in appropriate position prior to and during the potting of the printed circuit board 62, in one embodiment, printed circuit board 62.cornprises at least one biasing member as depicted in Figures 2-3. Biasing member 74 may be any resiliently compressible component attachable to a side of printed circuit board 62. In an example embodiment, printed circuit board conlprises two , ~ - - :, =,. _ , .. .. _ . , , .
, . . . .
_ .. ' :~ _ - : .. . .. . .. _ .,. ~.,r _'.
'u opCia::on, biasillg lncmbers 74 cxC-c a~~. a&ai;ls: aPaltiull of watls 38 and t:lcreby push printed circuit board 62 against an opposite nortion of wt111s 58.
Referring to Fiqur~s 2-3, LaSC w~ a: u W;ii:S Ss :}rt. St;nCriJlly CU1l0111L:.~;,i .:1:.L J:;as: a i7tC1llbCi5 7-1 surface of printed circuit board 62 contact a po:;icn u: walls 58a, 58b.
Opposite sucface of.
printed ciicuit board 62 contacts an opposite portion oF '.va::s 53c, S3c1 As depicted in Fiot:rc:s 2-3, the opposite portion of walls 58c, 58d tnay comprises an edge or edges that partiaii, exter.=d beyond a p!t<ne formed by walls 58. When printed circu7t boar'd 62 is placed in hou.r=ing cavity 60, the resiliently.compressible ends of biasing member 74 exert a force against a portion of walts 60a, 60b. in response this portion of watls 60a, 60b exerts an opposing force against printed cir ur1 fi1 th~t causes printed fcrcibty cuntac.t . Y
portion of walIs 60c, 60d. Printed circuit board 62 is thereby relessably secuced between walls 60 of housing 42 defrning housing cavity 60. In this embodiment, the biasing members 74 provide a mechanism for releasably securing priatcd circuit board 62 in position during the manufaeturing process such that printed circuit board 62 can be conveniently installed and also, if needed, removed and reinstalled, prior to potting the ANII: niodute.
In one embodiment, index attachment can be secured to ]eft-hand and right-hand cnounting posts 70, 72. As dcpicted in Figure l, icft-hand and right-hand mounting posts 70, 72, extending from base 42 are interfaced with index attachment 76. In an example embodiment.
[eft-hand and righz-hand mounting posts 70, 72 are speciCcally adapted to interfacz wit.'t index ~_~ .. ~ ... . . . -~
. .
- . i i,~'.. .. . . . ... .._., ,_ _..., ',t' . ~=' ~C_' . .. .. . ... ', - .
_ , ,. _... . .. . '? Ill:c. .. ..... - .
'_~. t ..{ .....a R .. ntir.r p-; ; "'~ '?. ~ .. ' :
posts 70, 72 arc adaptecz to receive index fasteners rõ urigir;aily used to sec.u:z inu,;x attachment 76 to nlounting structure 50 of utility meter 48. Although automated reader module 49 typically aa;tacflr 7e1:t 76 and= 1C(!e? S'$ orlo.nally i::st:lilc::' o cxisting utility metc; 43, new index attachment 76 and ac=.v indcx fastcning members_73 coUio!
easiiy be attached to left-hand and right-hand e:cxer.cinp posts 70, 72 during the prncess cf manufacturing and assersb3ing automated meter,reader module 40.
The acrangement of left-hand and right-hand mounting posts 70, 72 can be arranged in any number of ways to determine 'the plncement of irtdex attachittent 76 in automated reader meter module 40. An attachment 76 having register dials 79, is depicted in Figures 7-8.
(iener 11}+, jCfi }i.~r:" ' ! { >rt''. ~1-'.l ~ :liour?tiP..v ~oj:. r' 7' relation to an automated meter reader modWe 40 attacbed to utility meter 48, as depicted in F'igures 1-3. In an example embodiment, left-band and right-hand mounting posts 70, 72 are horizontally aligned near bottom of base 56 such that index attachment 76 is situated below a portion of sub-cavity 60a that extends beyond the perimeter of attachment area 52 of utility meter 48. As previously noted, in one embodiment patch antenna 46 occupies the portion of sub-cavity 60a that extends beyond the perimeter of attachment area 52. Tn this way, patch antenna 46 extends above index attachment 76 relative to automated meter reader module 40 mounted to mounting structure 50 at attachment area 52 of utility meter 43. By utilizing patch antenna 46 that extends above inc3ex attachment 76, autornated reader rnodu3e 40 can provide an improved i , ~.,r1:r~F _...V,~... '. , ..r=-.m .7, . .r,,.~. .~r. ~',C.. '~". ...., ' .
, , . t 7, _ . = n _ .i t.. ~ _ - ~ , ii: _ ._. _ _ .- . ....'~a. .i- ...., ...._. ..._. ., ' ., l:; ,J'_.,...
-..,.... ~~.., , . .. . . .
wriggler hot:. ,ir.D $2 :s :=cozatect :iuo walls 53, as dcpiccc,: i:: ures 1 -3. Vr';tcrl wr4~g;c:
housing 82 is integrated into watls 58, wrig,gler 80 can be brought iztto closer proximity to switch 68 in electronic cirruitry 66. Close proximity between wriggler 80 and printed circuit board 62 is advantageous bec:us ~.icglcr 80 t}pica;ty '.vircle;sl, with switch 68 t"at trarvlatcs rotations of a relatively small ml;riet 84 into ctzctronic si-r,a;s. Tt:e functcaal:ty of wriggler 80 is further described in U.S. Publication No. 200310152886 Al 3uh1, tha disc(osure of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.
The ra.te at which wriggler 80 rotates is cepresentative of the rate at which a utility such as gas. watcr, or cleciricity is consumed. Referring to Figure 9, consumpt'ton of a utility by a index gear system 88 in index attachment 76. Meter drive 86 in utility meter 48 has meter interface 90 that rotationally engages index interface 92 of indcx dtive 94 in index attachment 76. As consumption of a utility causes meter interface 90 to rotate index interface 92, index gear system 88 in index interface 76 produce correspoflding rotadon of visible register dials 79 located on the outward-facing surfaee 92 of index attachtnent 76. When index attachment 76 i;
removed from utility meter 48 and attached to automated meter reader module 40, however, meter drive 86 is no longrs able to act upon index drive 94 to produce visible rototions of register dials 79. Therefort, an important additional function of wriagler 80 is to provide an operable iuterface between ineter drive 86 and iadex drive 94.
TC -t~~.,;rt.~ .{~ ,~1...-,t,l,. ,.r.., t, . .. : ~ t . :~-. ~~ . . . '= . ~?a ti .h c~ - 1J .
.. - i.'....._ .,,._F 7:.,.. _1:.., ',~ . . ....... .-i_'.,. ...,. õ ...... .
, .. .. . . ....... _ . . ... ..i:. .
Z.fC:Cr .tl'._.r'1... :1.:!:....,._ ien&-x interface mechauisia 93 is designed to matiiWy enpge index inter:u.e 98. Generatly.
shaft 94 and index interface mechanism 96 integrally form a separate component from cneter interface nieehanism 98: Lockable tip 100 on an end of drive shaft 95 distal to index interface mcchsnism 96 lockabty s~~ures .;.~: c:r.tc.Cact. catchac:is::t 93 to Wriggler 80 can be operably ctnnxted to rr.eter interface 90 and index ir,te:face 92 in any order, Since consumption of a utility by a consumer can continue to rotationaL'y drive meter interface 90 during installation, it may be preferable to operably connect wriggler 80 to index attachment 76 before operably conneeting wriWer 80 to utility meter 48. By first attaching wriggler 80 to index-attachment 76, mcter drive 86 will not cause index interface 92 to rotate, . 0 1?117I icate t?i" _ .. .. o i r A1tltough wriggler 84 can be attached to index attachment 76 in any mannex that avoids the mating of a rotationally moving component to a rotationally stationary cornponent, attaching wriggler 80 to utility meter 48 often requires index attachment mechanism 98 to matingly engage meter intedace 90 while meter interface 90 is rotating. As previously noted, meter drive 86 will cause mcter interface 90 to rotate if a consumer continues to use a utility.
Since. it can be inappropriate, impracticat, or uneconomic to temporarily suspend serviee of a utility during installation, wriggler 80 must he operably coctnectable to utility meter 48 while meter interface is rotating 90. Specifically, a meter interface rr.cchanism 98 r.~,ust be adapted to :natingly engage rotating meter interface 90. Depending upon the type of utility rneter 48 receiving automated ~ ' ! . .,;a},1., ~.: ....-. ;... !.. . . , ... = _. =.,... np .._.. , ,i=rr _ ..i , . _, . . .. .. ,, .,... .. .. , . .. . . .- .... .:.., . . . .
;: . _. . ... _ _õ ii~~ tr.;c=õ .,. , .. .. 3, ta. ._ _. .. _ . _ _ ...,.. , ~, , ..
Currently, an installer must carefully align meter interface mechanism 98 with meter interface 90 as meter interface 90 is rotating. Typically, this requires considera.ble guesswork and trial-and-error. In addition to requirin; additional tirne for installation, current designs of i:i%ri.lce B:ech:ln:sCiS 93 OFtCii _-C::::..:L~::. v Pt:':::Ui._~:f3l, binding oi :~iG: i li'a:ClcM C
mechanism 93 tD rr,eter interface 90. Dind:ng c,:: causc inaccurate metcr readers, da:11117"., automated rneter reader module 40 and utility r.ie!cr 3, C2r,se utility leaks, resuit irz ir:=vo~sL''~
damage to meter drive 86 if and when automated rrretcr reader niodute is removed or replaced, or a combination thereof.
fn one embodiment of the present invcatioi:, automated ineter reader snodule 40 has wrieglPr Ft) ,Tieter 3nterface sr:echanism 9'3 t':,:' i? :!2~s aia;ing engager~.ent wi' ;: ,X;:t meter interface 90 and reduces the liketihood of binding. In an ezample embodi.me,nt, meter interface mechanism 98 has two spaced-apan interface members 102 extending beyond locking tip 100 along an axis parallef to the axis of drive shaft 94. In another exanple embodiment, tmter interface mechanism haa elongated neck 104, toothed gear 106 with teeth extending along axes perpendicalar the axis of drive shaft 94.
Referring to Figures 10-11, an examPle embodiment is depicted of meter interface mechanism 98 having two interface members 102. Tnterface members 102 are spaced aPpro;imately one-heTndred eighty degrces apen. rr:cmbe:s l03 can rxiati.!,~,!;- cnc-I,c mcter intcrface 90 while meter interface 90 is rotating. Exemplary dinxnsions of meter interface -=~r.~~n -. . , .t. .~.~~P .rorZl~n.~ T(l'7 .,- . . .- .... ... . t C ()-Y..'T?t.t ~i ..~. ,... . .. . , . . !'.;~i~~ ,_.._ ..... . . . .. .... . . V _.-.i -1... :.i . ..,, , ..,.., Ci :.,.,.. ~.. . .. . . , . .a:0ut C C1z..rtl;' r:G( l 0c Refe17ing :u Figures 16-17, an exnmple e,7ib~uitnertt is depicted of nieter interiLc4 mechanism 98 having toothed gear 106 with beveled tecth 108, Beveled teeth 108 can matt.ngly engage meter interface 90 while meter interface 90 is rotatiag. Beve(ed teeth 108 ailow meter interf:.. 94 to sClf-cer.ter,aa 111.0 ,.:~ ... .._:~ y ~.ola~ -2ClCr iZt--:iace 90. M-interface rr.echn.~Iisr._ 93 a:so has elongated Ilecl :~?. ~ic~rTg.;tcs neck 104 c:a n a2so facilitate operable connection of v.-riggler 80 to utility meter =+3 by p::.rmitting an installer to observc, whether toothed gear 106 has properly engaged meter interfece 90. Exemplary dimensions of meter interface mechanism 98 with - beveled teeth 108 and elongated neck 104 are listed in Figures 18-25, One ski'.lcd in the art will recognize tha_ .4anzcs r:tay be made to ttte d'irueltsier::, listed in FiolVPS 18-'75, nc, .,u.~]1 as ratios of tb?se w'.(!1oUt depaI'ting frorr.. Ihe and scope of the present invention.
Wben properly installed in accordance with oac embodiment, wriggler 80 lnterfaces utility meter 48 and index attachment 76 such that consumption of a utility such as gas, 10 electricity, or water causes meter drive 86 to rotate register dials 79 in the following maaner: (i) meter drive 86 causes meter interface 90 to rotate; (ii) meter interface 90 causes meter interface mechanism 98 to rotate; (iii) meterinterface mechanism 98 causes drive shaft 95 to rotAte; (iv) drive shaft 95 causes index interface mechanism 96 to rotate; (v) index interface mechanism 96 csr;ses index interf;re4 92 to rotate; (vi) i;:dex interface 92 ceru = ,s cl-ears of index gear systert FS
to rotate; and (vi) indcx gear system 88 causes register dials 79 to rotate.
, ,i t =~'.-, ~ _.. ,~t1T rP i r' ..., ,1 .1... . . . .t.~.t.. A~1. _' _. ~ , ,t~_ .. .
42, 7E, titii : . 20, 1t.:. ~..._.
_.3;4odin.e;, cct =; i: .r,b 1 ._ ? o: , ,.
meter 93 wltll n10UIiiiIld ;astening members 110. NZ'rieti :o mounting scructure Si), housing 42 is positioned between utility meter 48 and cover 44. Typically, cover 44 is adaptod to receive mounting fastening members 110 originally used to previous cadpoint cover to 1tt~.chr~C.~.t :1rC.". 57 C~ IT etcr =tA ARtiloL'&~ =10 typically =.:iili::::':
rnountinQ fastening membc:-s 1 10 originally ;nstalled on cxisting uti:,y naeter <t3, iiew niuuzding fastening membcr; l 10 could easily bc used as weil Cover 44 may be made from any number of materiats. General(y, cover 44 is made of a trmspwtnt polymer. By making cover 44 from a transparent polymcr, register dials 79 of index attachment 76 can be read without having to remove u;-,=er 44. Referring to Figures 26-27, cover 44 maJ :__.::.~:, ..awing surface;. lt'lu:~_r, 79 of index attachment 76 to be read from several vantagc points. In an exumple ecnbodia-ent, register dials 79 can be viewed through at least substuatially planar front viewing surface 112 and substantially concave top viewing surface 114.
In conjunction with one embodiment of cover 44 and housing 42y gasket 116 also protects the internal components of autotnntcd meter reader module 40 from contamination or interference due to moisture, dust,'insects; or other environmental debris. As depictcd in Figure 28, gasket 116 forms a seal around the perimeter of housing 42. Men automated meter reader ClOdtkli '~O is :TlCuntCd, ~:l=iP of ;.IJt1::tLZo struc:.L.. 55 ailil housing 42 and the interface of cover 44 and housing 42.
As depicted in Figures 1-3 and 28, cover 44 has mounting apertures '118 through wl;ich [II~~ll11t'.?~ f~~I~t11:1~ ., ,õ_,_ 1.~.~f !;u] 0~ :ii.;c. . -i. .~.t.
....,ic=. . .. ..:~ .ia:~ SIrLICi.~ -.v..1 .. , . .
eml3l:K{:;Flcn', ..."c: ~GCiit~u i;l extending wings of cover 44. L~ accordance witli this cmbodicõcc:t, inounting fastcning mcm.be rs 110 do not penetrate housing 56 or gasket 116. In another ernbodiment, as dcpicted in Figure 3, mounting apertures 118 are located in the corners of housing 56. In accordanee with this :IIi~'JOC}iaT.eIIt, fi]ou:iilil~b IliClli~clS I:v :1rC 116. iS j tightening mounting fasteners 78, gasket 116 prov ides a compression fit that ezu~: .ces 0:c effectiveness of the enclosure formed by cover 44 and housing 42 in both of these embodiments.
In other embodiments, gasket 116 may have a raised flange extending beyond the outer-most surface of cover 44. The extended flange can increase the effectiveness the seal bctween cover 44 tu mounting structur-- 50.
JCs:ZTi fC=ZiaiFcs (!I 7AoC :.:i; r~'i ..., :.;Sv betReen housing 42 and cover 44. In an example embodiment, outer surfaces of walts 58 contact imer surface of cover 44. The inherent resiliency of ttre tnateriats from which wails 58 and cover 44 are made causes housing 42 and cover 44 to come into forcible contact, thereby creating a compression fit.
In an example embodiment, gasket 116 is made of a Thermoplastic Elastottter (TPE) material, such as, for example, Thermoplastic Vulcanzite (TPV) such as Santoprene't'M 211-55.
As depicted in Figure 28, a cork gasket 120 as utilized in the prior art can adhere to the surfAce t>' rnnzmting strticRtre 50, which ra ,!!i:es :Ac'<itio~1l _i: "- and effott to r_.~ac%':-. Cork is susceptible to dctcrioration, such as cracking, that can destroy the seal in the interface of t.',OLtntl.lg structure 50 and 11(?L1s41 ; 112 ,... 1 t7t . In'.cCf~cC 41 .:?;.! ~ ~ ... V ~t2. (.T:;t:
' ...ric :i)::._., . tcr 5i1tiA::. I6 ...-.[ , _.. ..a.. .... ~ . .. ..,.... .... :i:_._, , .. . .,_L.,,,.. (ii with respect to the use other materials, s:,ch as corl, prcviously t:,-ed for a:>l:ct 115. Ji : nc embodiment utilizing the compress*on fit -~s described, the use of such a Fetymer,c material for gasket 116 permits a releasable and resealabie arrangement that facilitiates maintenance of the AMR module and the meter itsetf witciouc necessitating installation of a new sealing member.
The use of a polymeric material for g:tsket 116 cc~ also e~hance the compression fit of cover "4 to housing 42 by frictionalty securing cover 42 in place.
Automated meter reader module 40 may comprise several additianal features that improve reliability, functionality, and dtuability of electronic oomponents.
In an example emboditnent, housing cavity 60 is filled with a potting macerial. Potting matcrial provides a itt~JStul:i! '=:j' :.IQISi;]IL' i '!17":'.?'C 11}1' ~ii:~5= ,.. .. ... <. , t'~.~' c . I3 ?)tC~.,tto:'2C
enviroamental contaminants while not substantially adversely affect' the performanee of . : , electronic components such as electrortic circuitry 66 and battery 64.
Referring to Figure 4, surface of cover 44 may be configured such bottom face having lower outward-facing edges 124 of automated meter reader module does not form a right angle with respect to the plane of attachment area 52. Generalty, lower-outward-facing edges 122 are oriented outwardly downward such that bottom face 122 is substantially planar and forms an angle with respect to the place of attachrnent area 52 in a range of about ninety-five dPgrees to slightly moro thm n'Inety degrees. Tn <r rr~mp?~ em+alimcnt, bottom f~ec 1121 is substantialty planar and fornis an angle wiui resptcC tu tiic pidce af <utach.menE area i;t a raugt !'if'1hQr5* ~.--- ~t_:=C~C:: deS?CCCC to,+nl:t'UTtet', _.w- .~..- ---.~ .
; ne be f,rovidci' ..
crack in 2nckct 116, or condensation due to hi-imidity bttilds up, water or accutr.111nted condensation can exit automated meter reader module 40 into the outside environment by passing throtlgh drainage hole 126. The outwardly downward orientation of bottom face 122 of cover 44 of one embodiment can facilitate Lhe forrnation of an exit path for water th.oug.tt drainage holes 11-6. Drainaoe holes 126 car: be cocif:.,-.ucu =,n run=y number of wuys. 1.1 a."
example embvdiment, drainage holes 126 are configured to form a small leak path at or near the edge where front surface 112 and bottom surface 122 are Joirted, such as depicted in Figures 2-3.
Generaliy, di;,i..ag-~ tioies 126 are targe enougri water tension from impedicL,6 the drainage of water or accumulated moister, but srszals to block or substantially dete~
ir.-Vasion of autoir,;:~,cd .;:c-'er reader module 40 by :rw; ;; .':: iioIeS
1,26 rTlay be IOCnt~u i..
any portion of cover 44. In an example embodiment, drminage holes 126 are embedded in the portion of cover 44 in which bottam surface 122 transitions into front surface 112. 1n this embodiiment, drainage holes 126 are also spaced apart such that each drainage hole 126 occupies a loeation at or near a side edge of front surface 112. In this manner, drainage holes minimize the amount of water or condensation that caa build up wit<hin wutomated meter reader module in the event that bottom surface 122 of cover 44 is not level subsequent to installation.
Drainage hole 126 can be of any size and shape that permits the escape of water or nccumulatetl c~nc2 nsati~ n frorrt automated mter 40. !n e:.. e.riboc!ime: t, t! ~
dimensions ancl syap cs ot drainage hole 126 are eonfigu mc: sw~ii that inseetsõ such as fire ants, ..- ~' .~l. A t. . . .ri.t ~') <~,C. c. .1.- .. ... . - i t fn ' i ~.~, .rn n C' .. = .
= ~- . . .y . . . . . . . . . .. . =}=~J .. , F'iguras 2-3, drainage hole 126 issubstantially slit-like wherein a dimension of drainage hole 126 in one direction is substantially greater than a dimension. in another=
direction. This tends configuration Fer.nits f!aid substances, such as water, to Qx*t through drainage hole 126 b,r conforniing to the size and shape of the opening while limiting entry of rigid bodies to those conforming to the smallest dimension of drainage hole 126.
The location of dr .:naae hoies 126 in a porticii ' cove, ..~nsaicninb from botto: i surface 122 into front surizc,~ 112 can minimize the size c:rcs;~ar. 126 while ma,einvzing proximity to bottom surface 122. The effectiveness of drainnge holes 126 in diseouraging the unintended entry of water and iaisacts can also be the addition of various struetures on the inside stirl'ace of coyer 44. Such structu:es .;::. defined proximate drautage holes 126 to prevent :: dir: ::: linc of access iutta wrter moilule 40 througu dcaisa$e hole 126. These stcuctut?es may comprise any namber of confignrations that inhibit aooess thmglt drainage holes 126. In an exan*e embodinment, the inside stafaoe of front surface 112 has a ledge, approximately 1.2mm x 10.2mm, located about 2.2mm above drainage hole, approzimately.Smm x Srnm in size, to limit a direct penetration into the htwsing:
Gasket 116 mE, also 5sve weeping holes 122 in the porticn of gaskct 116 interfacing with the side of housing 42 and mounting stnteture 50 of utility meter 48.
Weeping holes 122 can channel water that may enter the space between automated meter reader module 40 and mozinting structur-:! 54, sucr 1, nccur.n.ulate;' condensation cr t~-t has entcrc:i !his sracr through a crack in gasket l l U.
Figtire 23 is an elevational view of a mcter iiuerface mechaiiism acwrding to an embodiment of the present invention.
Figure 24 is a cross-seetional side view of a meter inte.rface mechanism according to an embod'tment of the present invention.
Figure 25 is an elevational view of a meter interfaLe mechanism according to an embodiment of the prssent inventioa Figare. 26 is a perspoctivc view of an autornated meter reader module.
according to an embodiment of the present invention.
Ftgure 27 is a pmpective view of an autocnated meter reader module aecording to an embodiment of the present invention.
Fignre 28 is a read view of an aaomated meter reader module acxording to an 29 .. .i: . .. . .. . . , ~:i~ . . . ... . . - .
20' The invcntion can be more rcadily understood by reference to Figures 1-29 and the fotlo.vino descripticn. While ci c;iiventior, is not nccc:ssarily litiiitcd tc; s=.,~h an applicatior., the ~ " ~
invention will be better appreciated using a discussion of example embodiments iti sucli a specifte context.
Referring to Figures 1-6, automated meter reader module 40 comprises a housing 42, a cover 44, arW a patch antenna 46, in an example embodiment. Refenring to Figures 1, and 4-6, lutotnated meter reader module 40 is attaclteci to utility tneter 48 on mountistc srnLuture 50 at.
attachment arer. 52 to form autontated reter re :d; ca:ipoint 54.
Houaing 42 has a substantially planar base 56. On the front side of base 56, as depicted in Figures 1-3, base 56 has a phu-ality of walls 58. Walts 56 define housing cavity 60.
Depending upon how walls 58 are confi"gured, walls 58 may define a plurality of housing cavities 60. In an exannple embodiment, walls 58 define at least two housing sub-cavities 60a. 60b. As depicted in Figure 1, base 56 and walls 58 can be configured so housing sub-cavities 60a, 60b receive pcinted circuit board 62 and battery 64. Printed circuit board 62 generally comprises patch antenna 46 and eliectronic circeeitry 66. In an example embodiment, patch antenna 46 is integrated into printed circuit board 62. In other embodiments, an antenna may be separate from 15 electronic circuitry 66. In one embodiment, patch antenna 46 genesally comprises a printed ' . _ .,.. r ~e~"F. t~ , .,j F.t.. , _ .. .,.- .. . . .. .. _ . . - . .. , -.
. . - . . . ...
, y ...., iV ..., ... ., !:!k ~:.,.... _ _...!. ._.. ..: ,__.. .. ,.1..,.. ..
.... 4 , , .
f:o:.. tr) r0C110 L-t IuetlcV C'.'~1 . .. ....... ... ....:...... ..:.. _.
.:Ci .~d E'. ..._ _ ... .\.,,..
,fFrinted circuit board 62 cr.n b, in ::o: sinb sub-cavity Gi:a iu: ..;y :uuiber J f ways. In one embodiment, relative to automated meter reader module 40 that is installed on ttti:ity nicter 48, printed circuit boarcl 52 ii pos:tia:ted vertically in housing .= ct:ween left-ha+lcl mounting post.70 and right-hand mounting post 72, as depicted in Figures 1-3.
[n an cxamplc 1 , embodiment, printed circuit board 62 is verticatly o: ie,ited such that patch antenna 46 is above electroriic circuitry 66 in an instalted aatomated reader meter modttte 40. In this embodir.lent, patch antenna 46 occupies a portion of sub-cavity 60a that extends beyond the periineter of attacltment area 52 ofutility meter 48, as depicted in Figure 1.
Tn ve'nr.ral, printed circuit board 62 an(,j :~strery 04 should be fixedly secultd within hOU511S6 Clac iiy 6i}. Al:.11UUd:1 ln sOtrl require printed C Cu. . .t et and battery 64 to be removed, it is anticipated that printed circuit board 62 and battery 64 will remain in place for approximately the life of battery 64, such as, for example, around twenty years. This is typically accomplished by potting or fdling one or morc housing cavitics with a potting material.
To maintain the position of patch antenna 46, as well as electronic circuitry 66, in appropriate position prior to and during the potting of the printed circuit board 62, in one embodiment, printed circuit board 62.cornprises at least one biasing member as depicted in Figures 2-3. Biasing member 74 may be any resiliently compressible component attachable to a side of printed circuit board 62. In an example embodiment, printed circuit board conlprises two , ~ - - :, =,. _ , .. .. _ . , , .
, . . . .
_ .. ' :~ _ - : .. . .. . .. _ .,. ~.,r _'.
'u opCia::on, biasillg lncmbers 74 cxC-c a~~. a&ai;ls: aPaltiull of watls 38 and t:lcreby push printed circuit board 62 against an opposite nortion of wt111s 58.
Referring to Fiqur~s 2-3, LaSC w~ a: u W;ii:S Ss :}rt. St;nCriJlly CU1l0111L:.~;,i .:1:.L J:;as: a i7tC1llbCi5 7-1 surface of printed circuit board 62 contact a po:;icn u: walls 58a, 58b.
Opposite sucface of.
printed ciicuit board 62 contacts an opposite portion oF '.va::s 53c, S3c1 As depicted in Fiot:rc:s 2-3, the opposite portion of walls 58c, 58d tnay comprises an edge or edges that partiaii, exter.=d beyond a p!t<ne formed by walls 58. When printed circu7t boar'd 62 is placed in hou.r=ing cavity 60, the resiliently.compressible ends of biasing member 74 exert a force against a portion of walts 60a, 60b. in response this portion of watls 60a, 60b exerts an opposing force against printed cir ur1 fi1 th~t causes printed fcrcibty cuntac.t . Y
portion of walIs 60c, 60d. Printed circuit board 62 is thereby relessably secuced between walls 60 of housing 42 defrning housing cavity 60. In this embodiment, the biasing members 74 provide a mechanism for releasably securing priatcd circuit board 62 in position during the manufaeturing process such that printed circuit board 62 can be conveniently installed and also, if needed, removed and reinstalled, prior to potting the ANII: niodute.
In one embodiment, index attachment can be secured to ]eft-hand and right-hand cnounting posts 70, 72. As dcpicted in Figure l, icft-hand and right-hand mounting posts 70, 72, extending from base 42 are interfaced with index attachment 76. In an example embodiment.
[eft-hand and righz-hand mounting posts 70, 72 are speciCcally adapted to interfacz wit.'t index ~_~ .. ~ ... . . . -~
. .
- . i i,~'.. .. . . . ... .._., ,_ _..., ',t' . ~=' ~C_' . .. .. . ... ', - .
_ , ,. _... . .. . '? Ill:c. .. ..... - .
'_~. t ..{ .....a R .. ntir.r p-; ; "'~ '?. ~ .. ' :
posts 70, 72 arc adaptecz to receive index fasteners rõ urigir;aily used to sec.u:z inu,;x attachment 76 to nlounting structure 50 of utility meter 48. Although automated reader module 49 typically aa;tacflr 7e1:t 76 and= 1C(!e? S'$ orlo.nally i::st:lilc::' o cxisting utility metc; 43, new index attachment 76 and ac=.v indcx fastcning members_73 coUio!
easiiy be attached to left-hand and right-hand e:cxer.cinp posts 70, 72 during the prncess cf manufacturing and assersb3ing automated meter,reader module 40.
The acrangement of left-hand and right-hand mounting posts 70, 72 can be arranged in any number of ways to determine 'the plncement of irtdex attachittent 76 in automated reader meter module 40. An attachment 76 having register dials 79, is depicted in Figures 7-8.
(iener 11}+, jCfi }i.~r:" ' ! { >rt''. ~1-'.l ~ :liour?tiP..v ~oj:. r' 7' relation to an automated meter reader modWe 40 attacbed to utility meter 48, as depicted in F'igures 1-3. In an example embodiment, left-band and right-hand mounting posts 70, 72 are horizontally aligned near bottom of base 56 such that index attachment 76 is situated below a portion of sub-cavity 60a that extends beyond the perimeter of attachment area 52 of utility meter 48. As previously noted, in one embodiment patch antenna 46 occupies the portion of sub-cavity 60a that extends beyond the perimeter of attachment area 52. Tn this way, patch antenna 46 extends above index attachment 76 relative to automated meter reader module 40 mounted to mounting structure 50 at attachment area 52 of utility meter 43. By utilizing patch antenna 46 that extends above inc3ex attachment 76, autornated reader rnodu3e 40 can provide an improved i , ~.,r1:r~F _...V,~... '. , ..r=-.m .7, . .r,,.~. .~r. ~',C.. '~". ...., ' .
, , . t 7, _ . = n _ .i t.. ~ _ - ~ , ii: _ ._. _ _ .- . ....'~a. .i- ...., ...._. ..._. ., ' ., l:; ,J'_.,...
-..,.... ~~.., , . .. . . .
wriggler hot:. ,ir.D $2 :s :=cozatect :iuo walls 53, as dcpiccc,: i:: ures 1 -3. Vr';tcrl wr4~g;c:
housing 82 is integrated into watls 58, wrig,gler 80 can be brought iztto closer proximity to switch 68 in electronic cirruitry 66. Close proximity between wriggler 80 and printed circuit board 62 is advantageous bec:us ~.icglcr 80 t}pica;ty '.vircle;sl, with switch 68 t"at trarvlatcs rotations of a relatively small ml;riet 84 into ctzctronic si-r,a;s. Tt:e functcaal:ty of wriggler 80 is further described in U.S. Publication No. 200310152886 Al 3uh1, tha disc(osure of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.
The ra.te at which wriggler 80 rotates is cepresentative of the rate at which a utility such as gas. watcr, or cleciricity is consumed. Referring to Figure 9, consumpt'ton of a utility by a index gear system 88 in index attachment 76. Meter drive 86 in utility meter 48 has meter interface 90 that rotationally engages index interface 92 of indcx dtive 94 in index attachment 76. As consumption of a utility causes meter interface 90 to rotate index interface 92, index gear system 88 in index interface 76 produce correspoflding rotadon of visible register dials 79 located on the outward-facing surfaee 92 of index attachtnent 76. When index attachment 76 i;
removed from utility meter 48 and attached to automated meter reader module 40, however, meter drive 86 is no longrs able to act upon index drive 94 to produce visible rototions of register dials 79. Therefort, an important additional function of wriagler 80 is to provide an operable iuterface between ineter drive 86 and iadex drive 94.
TC -t~~.,;rt.~ .{~ ,~1...-,t,l,. ,.r.., t, . .. : ~ t . :~-. ~~ . . . '= . ~?a ti .h c~ - 1J .
.. - i.'....._ .,,._F 7:.,.. _1:.., ',~ . . ....... .-i_'.,. ...,. õ ...... .
, .. .. . . ....... _ . . ... ..i:. .
Z.fC:Cr .tl'._.r'1... :1.:!:....,._ ien&-x interface mechauisia 93 is designed to matiiWy enpge index inter:u.e 98. Generatly.
shaft 94 and index interface mechanism 96 integrally form a separate component from cneter interface nieehanism 98: Lockable tip 100 on an end of drive shaft 95 distal to index interface mcchsnism 96 lockabty s~~ures .;.~: c:r.tc.Cact. catchac:is::t 93 to Wriggler 80 can be operably ctnnxted to rr.eter interface 90 and index ir,te:face 92 in any order, Since consumption of a utility by a consumer can continue to rotationaL'y drive meter interface 90 during installation, it may be preferable to operably connect wriggler 80 to index attachment 76 before operably conneeting wriWer 80 to utility meter 48. By first attaching wriggler 80 to index-attachment 76, mcter drive 86 will not cause index interface 92 to rotate, . 0 1?117I icate t?i" _ .. .. o i r A1tltough wriggler 84 can be attached to index attachment 76 in any mannex that avoids the mating of a rotationally moving component to a rotationally stationary cornponent, attaching wriggler 80 to utility meter 48 often requires index attachment mechanism 98 to matingly engage meter intedace 90 while meter interface 90 is rotating. As previously noted, meter drive 86 will cause mcter interface 90 to rotate if a consumer continues to use a utility.
Since. it can be inappropriate, impracticat, or uneconomic to temporarily suspend serviee of a utility during installation, wriggler 80 must he operably coctnectable to utility meter 48 while meter interface is rotating 90. Specifically, a meter interface rr.cchanism 98 r.~,ust be adapted to :natingly engage rotating meter interface 90. Depending upon the type of utility rneter 48 receiving automated ~ ' ! . .,;a},1., ~.: ....-. ;... !.. . . , ... = _. =.,... np .._.. , ,i=rr _ ..i , . _, . . .. .. ,, .,... .. .. , . .. . . .- .... .:.., . . . .
;: . _. . ... _ _õ ii~~ tr.;c=õ .,. , .. .. 3, ta. ._ _. .. _ . _ _ ...,.. , ~, , ..
Currently, an installer must carefully align meter interface mechanism 98 with meter interface 90 as meter interface 90 is rotating. Typically, this requires considera.ble guesswork and trial-and-error. In addition to requirin; additional tirne for installation, current designs of i:i%ri.lce B:ech:ln:sCiS 93 OFtCii _-C::::..:L~::. v Pt:':::Ui._~:f3l, binding oi :~iG: i li'a:ClcM C
mechanism 93 tD rr,eter interface 90. Dind:ng c,:: causc inaccurate metcr readers, da:11117"., automated rneter reader module 40 and utility r.ie!cr 3, C2r,se utility leaks, resuit irz ir:=vo~sL''~
damage to meter drive 86 if and when automated rrretcr reader niodute is removed or replaced, or a combination thereof.
fn one embodiment of the present invcatioi:, automated ineter reader snodule 40 has wrieglPr Ft) ,Tieter 3nterface sr:echanism 9'3 t':,:' i? :!2~s aia;ing engager~.ent wi' ;: ,X;:t meter interface 90 and reduces the liketihood of binding. In an ezample embodi.me,nt, meter interface mechanism 98 has two spaced-apan interface members 102 extending beyond locking tip 100 along an axis parallef to the axis of drive shaft 94. In another exanple embodiment, tmter interface mechanism haa elongated neck 104, toothed gear 106 with teeth extending along axes perpendicalar the axis of drive shaft 94.
Referring to Figures 10-11, an examPle embodiment is depicted of meter interface mechanism 98 having two interface members 102. Tnterface members 102 are spaced aPpro;imately one-heTndred eighty degrces apen. rr:cmbe:s l03 can rxiati.!,~,!;- cnc-I,c mcter intcrface 90 while meter interface 90 is rotating. Exemplary dinxnsions of meter interface -=~r.~~n -. . , .t. .~.~~P .rorZl~n.~ T(l'7 .,- . . .- .... ... . t C ()-Y..'T?t.t ~i ..~. ,... . .. . , . . !'.;~i~~ ,_.._ ..... . . . .. .... . . V _.-.i -1... :.i . ..,, , ..,.., Ci :.,.,.. ~.. . .. . . , . .a:0ut C C1z..rtl;' r:G( l 0c Refe17ing :u Figures 16-17, an exnmple e,7ib~uitnertt is depicted of nieter interiLc4 mechanism 98 having toothed gear 106 with beveled tecth 108, Beveled teeth 108 can matt.ngly engage meter interface 90 while meter interface 90 is rotatiag. Beve(ed teeth 108 ailow meter interf:.. 94 to sClf-cer.ter,aa 111.0 ,.:~ ... .._:~ y ~.ola~ -2ClCr iZt--:iace 90. M-interface rr.echn.~Iisr._ 93 a:so has elongated Ilecl :~?. ~ic~rTg.;tcs neck 104 c:a n a2so facilitate operable connection of v.-riggler 80 to utility meter =+3 by p::.rmitting an installer to observc, whether toothed gear 106 has properly engaged meter interfece 90. Exemplary dimensions of meter interface mechanism 98 with - beveled teeth 108 and elongated neck 104 are listed in Figures 18-25, One ski'.lcd in the art will recognize tha_ .4anzcs r:tay be made to ttte d'irueltsier::, listed in FiolVPS 18-'75, nc, .,u.~]1 as ratios of tb?se w'.(!1oUt depaI'ting frorr.. Ihe and scope of the present invention.
Wben properly installed in accordance with oac embodiment, wriggler 80 lnterfaces utility meter 48 and index attachment 76 such that consumption of a utility such as gas, 10 electricity, or water causes meter drive 86 to rotate register dials 79 in the following maaner: (i) meter drive 86 causes meter interface 90 to rotate; (ii) meter interface 90 causes meter interface mechanism 98 to rotate; (iii) meterinterface mechanism 98 causes drive shaft 95 to rotAte; (iv) drive shaft 95 causes index interface mechanism 96 to rotate; (v) index interface mechanism 96 csr;ses index interf;re4 92 to rotate; (vi) i;:dex interface 92 ceru = ,s cl-ears of index gear systert FS
to rotate; and (vi) indcx gear system 88 causes register dials 79 to rotate.
, ,i t =~'.-, ~ _.. ,~t1T rP i r' ..., ,1 .1... . . . .t.~.t.. A~1. _' _. ~ , ,t~_ .. .
42, 7E, titii : . 20, 1t.:. ~..._.
_.3;4odin.e;, cct =; i: .r,b 1 ._ ? o: , ,.
meter 93 wltll n10UIiiiIld ;astening members 110. NZ'rieti :o mounting scructure Si), housing 42 is positioned between utility meter 48 and cover 44. Typically, cover 44 is adaptod to receive mounting fastening members 110 originally used to previous cadpoint cover to 1tt~.chr~C.~.t :1rC.". 57 C~ IT etcr =tA ARtiloL'&~ =10 typically =.:iili::::':
rnountinQ fastening membc:-s 1 10 originally ;nstalled on cxisting uti:,y naeter <t3, iiew niuuzding fastening membcr; l 10 could easily bc used as weil Cover 44 may be made from any number of materiats. General(y, cover 44 is made of a trmspwtnt polymer. By making cover 44 from a transparent polymcr, register dials 79 of index attachment 76 can be read without having to remove u;-,=er 44. Referring to Figures 26-27, cover 44 maJ :__.::.~:, ..awing surface;. lt'lu:~_r, 79 of index attachment 76 to be read from several vantagc points. In an exumple ecnbodia-ent, register dials 79 can be viewed through at least substuatially planar front viewing surface 112 and substantially concave top viewing surface 114.
In conjunction with one embodiment of cover 44 and housing 42y gasket 116 also protects the internal components of autotnntcd meter reader module 40 from contamination or interference due to moisture, dust,'insects; or other environmental debris. As depictcd in Figure 28, gasket 116 forms a seal around the perimeter of housing 42. Men automated meter reader ClOdtkli '~O is :TlCuntCd, ~:l=iP of ;.IJt1::tLZo struc:.L.. 55 ailil housing 42 and the interface of cover 44 and housing 42.
As depicted in Figures 1-3 and 28, cover 44 has mounting apertures '118 through wl;ich [II~~ll11t'.?~ f~~I~t11:1~ ., ,õ_,_ 1.~.~f !;u] 0~ :ii.;c. . -i. .~.t.
....,ic=. . .. ..:~ .ia:~ SIrLICi.~ -.v..1 .. , . .
eml3l:K{:;Flcn', ..."c: ~GCiit~u i;l extending wings of cover 44. L~ accordance witli this cmbodicõcc:t, inounting fastcning mcm.be rs 110 do not penetrate housing 56 or gasket 116. In another ernbodiment, as dcpicted in Figure 3, mounting apertures 118 are located in the corners of housing 56. In accordanee with this :IIi~'JOC}iaT.eIIt, fi]ou:iilil~b IliClli~clS I:v :1rC 116. iS j tightening mounting fasteners 78, gasket 116 prov ides a compression fit that ezu~: .ces 0:c effectiveness of the enclosure formed by cover 44 and housing 42 in both of these embodiments.
In other embodiments, gasket 116 may have a raised flange extending beyond the outer-most surface of cover 44. The extended flange can increase the effectiveness the seal bctween cover 44 tu mounting structur-- 50.
JCs:ZTi fC=ZiaiFcs (!I 7AoC :.:i; r~'i ..., :.;Sv betReen housing 42 and cover 44. In an example embodiment, outer surfaces of walts 58 contact imer surface of cover 44. The inherent resiliency of ttre tnateriats from which wails 58 and cover 44 are made causes housing 42 and cover 44 to come into forcible contact, thereby creating a compression fit.
In an example embodiment, gasket 116 is made of a Thermoplastic Elastottter (TPE) material, such as, for example, Thermoplastic Vulcanzite (TPV) such as Santoprene't'M 211-55.
As depicted in Figure 28, a cork gasket 120 as utilized in the prior art can adhere to the surfAce t>' rnnzmting strticRtre 50, which ra ,!!i:es :Ac'<itio~1l _i: "- and effott to r_.~ac%':-. Cork is susceptible to dctcrioration, such as cracking, that can destroy the seal in the interface of t.',OLtntl.lg structure 50 and 11(?L1s41 ; 112 ,... 1 t7t . In'.cCf~cC 41 .:?;.! ~ ~ ... V ~t2. (.T:;t:
' ...ric :i)::._., . tcr 5i1tiA::. I6 ...-.[ , _.. ..a.. .... ~ . .. ..,.... .... :i:_._, , .. . .,_L.,,,.. (ii with respect to the use other materials, s:,ch as corl, prcviously t:,-ed for a:>l:ct 115. Ji : nc embodiment utilizing the compress*on fit -~s described, the use of such a Fetymer,c material for gasket 116 permits a releasable and resealabie arrangement that facilitiates maintenance of the AMR module and the meter itsetf witciouc necessitating installation of a new sealing member.
The use of a polymeric material for g:tsket 116 cc~ also e~hance the compression fit of cover "4 to housing 42 by frictionalty securing cover 42 in place.
Automated meter reader module 40 may comprise several additianal features that improve reliability, functionality, and dtuability of electronic oomponents.
In an example emboditnent, housing cavity 60 is filled with a potting macerial. Potting matcrial provides a itt~JStul:i! '=:j' :.IQISi;]IL' i '!17":'.?'C 11}1' ~ii:~5= ,.. .. ... <. , t'~.~' c . I3 ?)tC~.,tto:'2C
enviroamental contaminants while not substantially adversely affect' the performanee of . : , electronic components such as electrortic circuitry 66 and battery 64.
Referring to Figure 4, surface of cover 44 may be configured such bottom face having lower outward-facing edges 124 of automated meter reader module does not form a right angle with respect to the plane of attachment area 52. Generalty, lower-outward-facing edges 122 are oriented outwardly downward such that bottom face 122 is substantially planar and forms an angle with respect to the place of attachrnent area 52 in a range of about ninety-five dPgrees to slightly moro thm n'Inety degrees. Tn <r rr~mp?~ em+alimcnt, bottom f~ec 1121 is substantialty planar and fornis an angle wiui resptcC tu tiic pidce af <utach.menE area i;t a raugt !'if'1hQr5* ~.--- ~t_:=C~C:: deS?CCCC to,+nl:t'UTtet', _.w- .~..- ---.~ .
; ne be f,rovidci' ..
crack in 2nckct 116, or condensation due to hi-imidity bttilds up, water or accutr.111nted condensation can exit automated meter reader module 40 into the outside environment by passing throtlgh drainage hole 126. The outwardly downward orientation of bottom face 122 of cover 44 of one embodiment can facilitate Lhe forrnation of an exit path for water th.oug.tt drainage holes 11-6. Drainaoe holes 126 car: be cocif:.,-.ucu =,n run=y number of wuys. 1.1 a."
example embvdiment, drainage holes 126 are configured to form a small leak path at or near the edge where front surface 112 and bottom surface 122 are Joirted, such as depicted in Figures 2-3.
Generaliy, di;,i..ag-~ tioies 126 are targe enougri water tension from impedicL,6 the drainage of water or accumulated moister, but srszals to block or substantially dete~
ir.-Vasion of autoir,;:~,cd .;:c-'er reader module 40 by :rw; ;; .':: iioIeS
1,26 rTlay be IOCnt~u i..
any portion of cover 44. In an example embodiment, drminage holes 126 are embedded in the portion of cover 44 in which bottam surface 122 transitions into front surface 112. 1n this embodiiment, drainage holes 126 are also spaced apart such that each drainage hole 126 occupies a loeation at or near a side edge of front surface 112. In this manner, drainage holes minimize the amount of water or condensation that caa build up wit<hin wutomated meter reader module in the event that bottom surface 122 of cover 44 is not level subsequent to installation.
Drainage hole 126 can be of any size and shape that permits the escape of water or nccumulatetl c~nc2 nsati~ n frorrt automated mter 40. !n e:.. e.riboc!ime: t, t! ~
dimensions ancl syap cs ot drainage hole 126 are eonfigu mc: sw~ii that inseetsõ such as fire ants, ..- ~' .~l. A t. . . .ri.t ~') <~,C. c. .1.- .. ... . - i t fn ' i ~.~, .rn n C' .. = .
= ~- . . .y . . . . . . . . . .. . =}=~J .. , F'iguras 2-3, drainage hole 126 issubstantially slit-like wherein a dimension of drainage hole 126 in one direction is substantially greater than a dimension. in another=
direction. This tends configuration Fer.nits f!aid substances, such as water, to Qx*t through drainage hole 126 b,r conforniing to the size and shape of the opening while limiting entry of rigid bodies to those conforming to the smallest dimension of drainage hole 126.
The location of dr .:naae hoies 126 in a porticii ' cove, ..~nsaicninb from botto: i surface 122 into front surizc,~ 112 can minimize the size c:rcs;~ar. 126 while ma,einvzing proximity to bottom surface 122. The effectiveness of drainnge holes 126 in diseouraging the unintended entry of water and iaisacts can also be the addition of various struetures on the inside stirl'ace of coyer 44. Such structu:es .;::. defined proximate drautage holes 126 to prevent :: dir: ::: linc of access iutta wrter moilule 40 througu dcaisa$e hole 126. These stcuctut?es may comprise any namber of confignrations that inhibit aooess thmglt drainage holes 126. In an exan*e embodinment, the inside stafaoe of front surface 112 has a ledge, approximately 1.2mm x 10.2mm, located about 2.2mm above drainage hole, approzimately.Smm x Srnm in size, to limit a direct penetration into the htwsing:
Gasket 116 mE, also 5sve weeping holes 122 in the porticn of gaskct 116 interfacing with the side of housing 42 and mounting stnteture 50 of utility meter 48.
Weeping holes 122 can channel water that may enter the space between automated meter reader module 40 and mozinting structur-:! 54, sucr 1, nccur.n.ulate;' condensation cr t~-t has entcrc:i !his sracr through a crack in gasket l l U.
Claims (26)
1. An automated meter reader module adapted to be installed on an existing utility meter having an index attachment that displays readings from the utility meter, the utility meter presenting an attachment area where the index attachment is selectively attachable to the utility meter, the automated meter reader module comprising:
a housing with a generally planar base having on a first side a plurality of walls defining an at least one housing cavity adapted to receive a printed circuit board having circuitry for the automated reader meter module, the housing including a structure on the first side adapted to interface with the index attachment and a portion of the base on a second side opposite the first side that is adapted to interface with the attachment area, the at least one housing cavity including a cavity portion that extends beyond a perimeter of the attachment area of the utility meter, a cover locatable relative to the housing to cover both the housing cavity and the index attachment when the index attachment is mounted on the structure adapted to interface with the index attachment; and a patch antenna integrated into the printed circuit board, the printed circuit board locatable within the at least one housing cavity such that the patch antenna occupies a position in the cavity portion that extends beyond the perimeter of the attachment area of the utility meter.
a housing with a generally planar base having on a first side a plurality of walls defining an at least one housing cavity adapted to receive a printed circuit board having circuitry for the automated reader meter module, the housing including a structure on the first side adapted to interface with the index attachment and a portion of the base on a second side opposite the first side that is adapted to interface with the attachment area, the at least one housing cavity including a cavity portion that extends beyond a perimeter of the attachment area of the utility meter, a cover locatable relative to the housing to cover both the housing cavity and the index attachment when the index attachment is mounted on the structure adapted to interface with the index attachment; and a patch antenna integrated into the printed circuit board, the printed circuit board locatable within the at least one housing cavity such that the patch antenna occupies a position in the cavity portion that extends beyond the perimeter of the attachment area of the utility meter.
2. The automated meter reader module of claim 1, wherein the utility meter monitors consumption of a utility selected from a group consisting of gas, water, and electricity.
3. The automated meter reader module of claim 1, wherein the housing is substantially filled with a potting material.
4. The automated meter reader module of claim 1, wherein the structure on the first side of the housing further comprises a first mounting post and a second mounting post designed to interface with the index attachment, the first mounting post and the second mounting post being located outside the at least one housing cavity.
5. The automated meter reader module of claim 1, wherein the cover comprises a plurality of integrally joined faces.
6 The automated meter reader module of claim 5, wherein the index attachment has a plurality of register dials viewable through at least two of the integrally joined faces of the cover.
7. The automated meter reader module of claim 6, wherein the plurality of integrally joined faces comprises a first substantially planar face and a second substantially concave face, the planar and concave faces sharing an edge of the cover.
8. The automated meter reader module of claim 1, further comprising a flexible gasket having a first side adapted to sealingly interface with the cover and the first side of the base and a second side adapted to sealingly interface with the attachment area and the second side of the base, the flexible gasket being coextensively attached to a circumferential edge of the base.
9. The automated meter reader module of claim 1, wherein the printed circuit board has an at least one biasing member that secures the printed circuit board in the housing cavity, the biasing member having an elongated body with an annular resilient end distal to the printed circuit board.
10. An enclosure of an automated meter reader module adapted to be installed on an existing utility meter having an index attachment that displays readings from the utility meter, the utility meter presenting an attachment area where the index attachment is selectively attachable to the utility meter, the enclosure comprising:
a housing with a generally planar base having on a first side a plurality of walls defining an at least one housing cavity adapted to receive a printed circuit board having circuitry for the automated reader meter module and defining a base area having an aperture, the housing including a structure on the first side adapted to interface with the index attachment and a portion of the base on a second side opposite the first side that is adapted to interface with the attachment area, the at least one housing cavity including a cavity portion that extends beyond a perimeter of the attachment area of the utility meter and the aperture;
a cover locatable relative to the housing to cover both the housing cavity, the index attachment, and the base area when the index attachment is mounted on the structure adapted to interface with the index attachment: and a flexible gasket having a first side adapted to sealingly interface with the cover and the first side of the base and a second side adapted to sealingly interface with the attachment area and second side of the base, the gasket being coextensively releasably attachable to a circumferential edge of the base.
a housing with a generally planar base having on a first side a plurality of walls defining an at least one housing cavity adapted to receive a printed circuit board having circuitry for the automated reader meter module and defining a base area having an aperture, the housing including a structure on the first side adapted to interface with the index attachment and a portion of the base on a second side opposite the first side that is adapted to interface with the attachment area, the at least one housing cavity including a cavity portion that extends beyond a perimeter of the attachment area of the utility meter and the aperture;
a cover locatable relative to the housing to cover both the housing cavity, the index attachment, and the base area when the index attachment is mounted on the structure adapted to interface with the index attachment: and a flexible gasket having a first side adapted to sealingly interface with the cover and the first side of the base and a second side adapted to sealingly interface with the attachment area and second side of the base, the gasket being coextensively releasably attachable to a circumferential edge of the base.
11. The automated meter reader module of claim 10, wherein the structure on the first side of the housing further comprises a first mounting post and a second mounting post designed to interface with the index attachment, the first mounting post and the second mounting post being located outside the at least one housing cavity.
12. The automated meter reader module of claim 10, wherein the cover comprises a substantially planar first face and a substantially concave second face sharing an edge of the cover, the cover interfacing with the structure such that a plurality of register dials are viewable through the planar face and the concave face.
13. An automated meter reader module adapted to be installed on an existing utility meter having an index attachment that displays readings from the utility meter, and is selectively attachable to the utility meter, the automated meter reader module comprising:
a housing with generally planar base having on a first side a plurality of walls defining an at least one housing cavity adapted to receive a printed circuit board having circuitry for the automated reader meter module, the housing including a structure on the first side adapted to interface with the index attachment and a portion of the base on a second side opposite the first side that is adapted to interface with the utility meter;
a cover locatable relative to the housing to cover both the housing cavity and the index attachment when the index attachment is mounted on the structure adapted to interface with the index attachment; and a wriggler having an index interface mechanism operably connectable to an index drive of the index attachment and a meter interface mechanism operably connectable to a rotating meter interface of the utility meter, the wriggler communicating with a switch in the circuit of the printed circuit board, the wiggler including means for operably coupling the interface mechanism while the rotating meter interface is in operation.
a housing with generally planar base having on a first side a plurality of walls defining an at least one housing cavity adapted to receive a printed circuit board having circuitry for the automated reader meter module, the housing including a structure on the first side adapted to interface with the index attachment and a portion of the base on a second side opposite the first side that is adapted to interface with the utility meter;
a cover locatable relative to the housing to cover both the housing cavity and the index attachment when the index attachment is mounted on the structure adapted to interface with the index attachment; and a wriggler having an index interface mechanism operably connectable to an index drive of the index attachment and a meter interface mechanism operably connectable to a rotating meter interface of the utility meter, the wriggler communicating with a switch in the circuit of the printed circuit board, the wiggler including means for operably coupling the interface mechanism while the rotating meter interface is in operation.
14. The automated meter reader module of claim 13, wherein the structure on the first side of the housing further comprises a first mounting post and a second mounting post designed to interface with the index attachment, the first mounting post and the second mounting post being located outside the at least one housing cavity.
15. The automated meter reader module of claim 13, wherein the plurality of walls further defines a wriggler housing, the wriggler housing being adapted to receive the wriggler proximal to the switch in the printed circuit board.
16. The automated meter reader module of claim 15, wherein the meter interface mechanism comprises a pair of interface members rotationally positioned approximately one-hundred eighty degrees apart.
17. The automated meter reader module of claim 15, wherein the meter interface mechanism comprises a gear having a plurality of beveled teeth.
18. An automated meter reader module adapted to be installed on an existing utility meter having an index attachment that displays readings from the utility meter, the utility meter presenting an attachment area where the index attachment is selectively attachable to the utility meter, the automated meter reader module comprising:
a housing with a generally planar base having on a first side a plurality of walls defining an at least one housing cavity adapted to receive a printed circuit board having circuitry for the automated reader meter module, the housing including a structure on the first side adapted to interface with the index attachment and a portion of the base on a second side opposite the first side that is adapted to interface with the attachment area;
at least one biasing member attached to a first side of the printed circuit board, the biasing member having an elongated body and a resiliently compressible end distal to the elongated body, the resiliently compressible end exerting a force against a first wall defining the housing cavity, the first wall exerting an opposing force against the printed circuit board that causes a second side of the printed circuit board to contact a second wall defining the housing cavity such that the printed circuit board is removably securable in the housing cavity prior to potting of the housing cavity; and a cover locatable relative to the housing to cover both the housing cavity and the index attachment when the index attachment is mounted on the structure adapted to interface with the index attachment.
a housing with a generally planar base having on a first side a plurality of walls defining an at least one housing cavity adapted to receive a printed circuit board having circuitry for the automated reader meter module, the housing including a structure on the first side adapted to interface with the index attachment and a portion of the base on a second side opposite the first side that is adapted to interface with the attachment area;
at least one biasing member attached to a first side of the printed circuit board, the biasing member having an elongated body and a resiliently compressible end distal to the elongated body, the resiliently compressible end exerting a force against a first wall defining the housing cavity, the first wall exerting an opposing force against the printed circuit board that causes a second side of the printed circuit board to contact a second wall defining the housing cavity such that the printed circuit board is removably securable in the housing cavity prior to potting of the housing cavity; and a cover locatable relative to the housing to cover both the housing cavity and the index attachment when the index attachment is mounted on the structure adapted to interface with the index attachment.
19. The automated meter reader module of claim 18, wherein the structure on the first side of the housing further comprises a first mounting post and a second mounting post designed to interface with the index attachment, the first mounting post and the second mounting post being located outside the at least one housing cavity.
20. The automated meter reader module of claim 18, wherein the cover comprises a substantially planar first face and a substantially concave second face sharing an edge of the cover, the cover interfacing with the structure such that a plurality of register dials are viewable through the planar face and the concave face.
21. The automated meter reader module of claim 18, further comprising a flexible gasket having a first side adapted to sealingly interface with the cover and the first side of the base and a second such adapted to sealingly interface with the attachment area and the second side of the base, the flexible gasket being coextensively attached to a circumferential edge of the base.
22. An enclosure of an automated meter reader module adapted to be installed on an existing utility meter having an index attachment that displays readings from the utility meter on a plurality of dials, the utility meter presenting an attachment area where the index attachment is selectively attachable to the utility meter, the enclosure comprising:
a housing with a generally planar base having on a first side a plurality of walls defining an at least one housing cavity adapted to receive a printed circuit board having circuitry for the automated reader meter module, the housing including a structure on the first side adapted to interface with the index attachment and a portion of the base on a second side opposite the first side that is adapted to interface with the attachment area, the at least one housing cavity including a cavity portion that extends beyond a perimeter of the attachment area of the utility meter, a cover locatable relative to the housing to cover both the housing cavity and the index attachment when the cover is mounted on the structure adapted to interface with the index attachment, the cover having a plurality of integrally joined faces with the least two faces permitting viewing of the dials.
a housing with a generally planar base having on a first side a plurality of walls defining an at least one housing cavity adapted to receive a printed circuit board having circuitry for the automated reader meter module, the housing including a structure on the first side adapted to interface with the index attachment and a portion of the base on a second side opposite the first side that is adapted to interface with the attachment area, the at least one housing cavity including a cavity portion that extends beyond a perimeter of the attachment area of the utility meter, a cover locatable relative to the housing to cover both the housing cavity and the index attachment when the cover is mounted on the structure adapted to interface with the index attachment, the cover having a plurality of integrally joined faces with the least two faces permitting viewing of the dials.
23. The automated meter reader module of claim 22, wherein the structure on the first side of the housing further comprises a first mounting post and a second mounting post designed to interface with the index attachment, the first mounting post and the second mounting post being located outside the at least one housing cavity.
24. The automated meter reader module of claim 22, wherein the plurality of walls further defines a wriggler housing, the wriggler housing being adapted to receive a wriggler proximal to a switch in the circuitry of the printed circuit board, the wriggler having a meter interface mechanism adapted to matingly engage a rotating meter interface.
25. The automated meter reader module of claim 22, further comprising a flexible gasket having a first side adapted to sealingly interface with the cover and the first side of the base and a second side adapted to sealingly interface with the attachment area and the second side of the base, the flexible gasket being coextensively attached to a circumferential edge of the base.
26. A method of installing an automated meter reader module having a housing, a cover, and a wriggler to an existing utility meter having an index attachment that uses an index drive to display readings derived from a meter drive operably connected to the utility meter, the existing utility meter presenting an attachment area where an index interface of the index attachment is selectively attachable to a meter interface of the utility meter, the wriggler having an index interface mechanism and a meter interface mechanism, the method of installing comprising the steps of:
removing the index attachment from the utility meter;
operable connecting the index interface mechanism is the index interface;
attaching the index attachment to a structure on a first side of the housing;
operably connecting the meter interface mechanism to the meter interface, the meter interface mechanism adapted to engage the meter interface as the meter interface rotates;
and securing the housing intermediate the cover and the attachment area, the first side of the housing interfacing with the cover and a second side of the housing interfacing with the attachment area.
removing the index attachment from the utility meter;
operable connecting the index interface mechanism is the index interface;
attaching the index attachment to a structure on a first side of the housing;
operably connecting the meter interface mechanism to the meter interface, the meter interface mechanism adapted to engage the meter interface as the meter interface rotates;
and securing the housing intermediate the cover and the attachment area, the first side of the housing interfacing with the cover and a second side of the housing interfacing with the attachment area.
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| US11/695,503 US7973673B2 (en) | 2007-04-02 | 2007-04-02 | Automated meter reader direct mount endpoint module |
| US11/695,503 | 2007-04-02 |
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| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2628118A1 true CA2628118A1 (en) | 2008-10-02 |
| CA2628118C CA2628118C (en) | 2016-03-22 |
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| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA2628118A Active CA2628118C (en) | 2007-04-02 | 2008-04-01 | Automated meter reader direct mount endpoint module |
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| US (2) | US7973673B2 (en) |
| CA (1) | CA2628118C (en) |
| MX (2) | MX2008004395A (en) |
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-
2007
- 2007-04-02 US US11/695,503 patent/US7973673B2/en active Active
-
2008
- 2008-04-01 CA CA2628118A patent/CA2628118C/en active Active
- 2008-04-02 MX MX2008004395A patent/MX2008004395A/en active IP Right Grant
-
2010
- 2010-10-26 US US12/912,270 patent/US20110038104A1/en not_active Abandoned
-
2011
- 2011-09-07 MX MX2011009389A patent/MX2011009389A/en unknown
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| MX2008004395A (en) | 2009-02-27 |
| MX2011009389A (en) | 2011-10-05 |
| US20110038104A1 (en) | 2011-02-17 |
| CA2628118C (en) | 2016-03-22 |
| US7973673B2 (en) | 2011-07-05 |
| US20080238711A1 (en) | 2008-10-02 |
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