Improved remote internet of things antenna solution for water meters

Abstract

The invention relates to an improved remote internet of things antenna solution for water meters. An antenna device may include a coaxial cable where one end of the coaxial cable forms a remote antenna and another end of the coaxial cable includes a local coupler where both ends of the coaxial cable are overmolded to provide protection in a watermeter device. The local coupler can be snapped to the communication module and can operate in a broadband RF frequency range, for example, from 790 MHz to 1900 MHz. The antenna arrangement may also be implemented with an alternative RF coupler design in which the two metal layers are secured by an IP68 plastic housing, providing a coaxial cable to interact with the coupler and remote antenna. The coupler can operate with low loss of less than, for example, 10 dB. Further, the remote antenna may be mounted on the well cover, and in some cases, the coaxial cable itself may act as a remote antenna.

Description

[0001] Cross-referencing of related patent applications

[0002] This patent application claims priority to Indian Provisional Patent Application No. 202411034184, filed on April 30, 2024, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The implementation scheme generally relates to antenna devices used in metering systems such as water meters. The implementation scheme also relates to remote Internet of Things (IoT) antennas, which can be implemented in association with an RF coupler within the context of the metering device. The implementation scheme also relates to water metering systems and devices. Background Technology

[0004] Smart water meters are often installed in pits, sometimes up to a meter below the local surface. Due to their location, these terminals often face challenges in effectively transmitting signals, requiring higher power levels to compensate for signal loss. Furthermore, when the pit is filled with water, further signal attenuation occurs, exacerbating the problem.

[0005] To mitigate these challenges, using an external or remote antenna positioned closer to the manhole cover can effectively re-radiate the RF signal, thereby minimizing attenuation caused by the water in the manhole and the depth of the manhole itself.

[0006] In areas with poor signal strength, smart water meters must operate at higher power levels to maintain connectivity. The 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) has defined three coverage levels—Normal (ECL 0), Robust (ECL 1), and Extreme (ECL 2)—each associated with a specific Maximum Coupling Loss (MCL) target. These levels specify various transmission parameters, including transmission power, subcarrier subsets, and transmission attempts, designed to ensure reliable communication under challenging conditions. In the most adverse scenarios, ECL 2, transmission delay, and the need for extensive repetition significantly impact battery life, reducing it by, for example, more than 60%.

[0007] Prior to installation, a cellular signal network survey is necessary to determine whether a remote antenna is required for the smart water meter, based on signal strength and network connectivity. However, converting an existing water meter's radio component from an internal antenna to a remote antenna configuration is both costly and time-consuming. This could involve replacing the entire water meter unit for the relevant customer and configuring new settings, resulting in increased downtime in areas with poor signal connectivity. Summary of the Invention

[0008] The following summary is provided to facilitate understanding of some features of the embodiments disclosed herein and is not intended to be an complete description. A full understanding of the various aspects of the embodiments disclosed herein can be obtained by considering the specification, claims, drawings, and abstract as a whole.

[0009] Therefore, one aspect of the implementation is to provide an improved antenna device for metering systems and devices such as water meters.

[0010] Another aspect of the implementation is to provide an improved water metering device that includes a coupled antenna and a remotely mounted antenna, which together can improve the signal strength experienced by the water meter's radio components and cellular telephone system.

[0011] Another aspect of the implementation is to provide a coupling antenna or RF coupler that can be retrofitted onto an existing water meter with a poor signal, or mounted onto a new water meter during installation.

[0012] Another aspect of the implementation plan is to improve the signal strength of water meters installed in pits, the depth of which might otherwise prevent the water metering system from working reliably.

[0013] The above aspects and other objectives can now be achieved as described herein. In one embodiment, an antenna device may include a coaxial cable, wherein one end of the coaxial cable forms a remote antenna and the other end of the coaxial cable includes a local coupler, wherein both ends of the coaxial cable are overmolded to provide protection in a water meter device including a water meter.

[0014] In one embodiment of the antenna device, the local coupler may be configured to snap onto and / or around the communication module (e.g., radio component) of the water meter.

[0015] One embodiment of the antenna device may also include a flexible printed circuit board.

[0016] In one embodiment of the antenna device, the local coupler may include an RF coupler capable of operating for a wideband RF frequency range of 790MHz to 1900MHz.

[0017] In one embodiment of the antenna device, the RF coupler can operate with low loss of less than 10 dB.

[0018] In one embodiment of the antenna device, the local coupler may include a clip-on coupler that can act as a clamp to engage with the radio components associated with the water meter.

[0019] In one embodiment of the antenna device, the remote antenna may be mounted on a manhole cover.

[0020] In implementations of the antenna device, the coaxial cable can serve as both an RF coupler and a remote antenna.

[0021] In another embodiment, a metering system may include: a remote antenna; a coupler attached to a water meter communication module; and a coaxial cable that picks up RF signals from an internal antenna of the water meter communication module and acts as a remote antenna to facilitate efficient transmission of RF signals between the remote antenna and the water meter communication module, thereby increasing signal strength and minimizing signal attenuation within the metering system.

[0022] In one embodiment of the metering system, the coupler may include an RF coupler that, for ECL2 coverage locations, increases the battery life of the battery associated with the metering system by 60%.

[0023] In one embodiment of the metering system, the local coupler may include a clamp coupler that can be used as a clamp to engage with the water meter communication module.

[0024] In one embodiment of the metering system, the water meter communication module may include a radio component.

[0025] In one embodiment of the metering system, the coupler may include an RF coupler capable of operating in a wideband RF frequency range of 790MHz to 1900MHz.

[0026] In one embodiment of the metering system, the coaxial cable may form a remote antenna at one end, and the other end of the coaxial cable may include a local coupler, wherein both ends of the coaxial cable may be overmolded to provide protection in a water meter device including a water meter.

[0027] In an alternative embodiment, the two metal layers can form a local coupler, which is secured by an IP68-compliant plastic housing, and a coaxial cable is provided to connect the local coupler at one end and a remote antenna at the other end. Attached Figure Description

[0028] The accompanying drawings also illustrate the invention and, together with the specific embodiments thereof, serve to explain the principles of the invention, wherein similar reference numerals throughout the separate views refer to the same or functionally similar elements and are incorporated in and form part of the specification.

[0029] Figure 1 A visual diagram of a boundary box according to one embodiment is shown, in which a water meter is positioned inside the boundary box;

[0030] Figure 2 A visual diagram of a coupler snapped / clamped onto a radio component according to one embodiment is shown, which can be implemented according to one or more embodiments;

[0031] Figure 3 A visual diagram illustrating an antenna that can be secured under a polymer manhole cover using screws or clamps, according to one embodiment, is shown.

[0032] Figure 4 A visual diagram depicting a coaxial cable connecting a coupler and an antenna, according to one embodiment, is shown.

[0033] Figure 5 A visual diagram depicting an antenna according to one embodiment is shown;

[0034] Figure 6 A visual diagram depicting the wire path within an antenna according to one embodiment is shown;

[0035] Figure 7 A visual diagram depicting a coaxial cable according to one embodiment is shown, wherein the two ends of the coaxial cable are stripped to expose a conductive shield protected by a dielectric and a central conductor.

[0036] Figure 8 A visual diagram depicting a coupler according to one embodiment is shown;

[0037] Figure 9 A schematic diagram is shown of a coupler having a conductor for the ground plane of the pickup radio module PCB and a coupler for the pickup radio module antenna according to one embodiment;

[0038] Figure 10 A visual diagram of another design of a water meter communication module with an internal antenna and an RF coupler, according to one embodiment, is shown.

[0039] Figure 11 An embodiment is shown. Figure 10 The structure shown is a visual representation of the internal antenna;

[0040] Figure 12 A visual diagram showing an internal view of an RF coupler according to one embodiment is shown;

[0041] Figure 13 A visual diagram of an RF coupler design according to one implementation is shown;

[0042] Figure 14 The RF coupler and internal antenna coupling according to one embodiment are shown;

[0043] Figure 15An external antenna mounted under the boundary box cover according to one embodiment is shown;

[0044] Figure 16 A visual depiction of a manhole cover tethered to a manhole according to one embodiment is shown;

[0045] Figure 17 An RF coupler snapped onto a communication module housing an internal antenna, according to one embodiment, is shown.

[0046] Figure 18 An RF coupler snapped onto a communication module housing an internal antenna, and a volumetric instrument clamped thereon, according to one embodiment, are shown; and

[0047] Figure 19 A complete water meter device within a boundary box according to one embodiment is shown, including a volumetric meter with a communication module attached, an internal antenna, an RF coupler snapped to the communication module, a coaxial cable, and an antenna mounted under the boundary box cover.

[0048] In the accompanying drawings described and illustrated herein, the same or similar parts and elements are generally indicated by the same reference numerals. Detailed Implementation

[0049] The specific values ​​and configurations discussed in these non-restrictive examples are variable and are cited only to illustrate one or more implementations, and are not intended to limit their scope.

[0050] The subject matter will now be described more fully below with reference to the accompanying drawings, which form part of the subject matter and illustrate specific example embodiments by way of illustration. However, the subject matter can be embodied in many different forms, and therefore the subject matter covered or claimed is intended to be construed as not being limited to any of the example embodiments listed herein; example embodiments are provided merely for illustrative purposes. Likewise, the subject matter intended to be claimed or covered has a suitably broad scope. Among other things, the subject matter can be embodied as a method, apparatus, component, or system. Thus, embodiments can take the form, for example, hardware, software, firmware, or combinations thereof. Therefore, the following detailed description is not intended to be construed as limiting.

[0051] Throughout the specification and claims, terms may have nuanced meanings as the context dictates or implies, in addition to their expressly stated meanings. Similarly, phrases such as “in one embodiment” or “in an exemplary embodiment” and their variations, as used herein, may not necessarily refer to the same embodiment, and phrases such as “in another embodiment” or “in another exemplary embodiment” and their variations, as used herein, may or may not refer to different embodiments. For example, the claimed subject matter is intended to include, in whole or in part, combinations of exemplary embodiments.

[0052] Generally, terms can be understood at least in part from their usage in the context. For example, terms such as “and,” “or,” or “and / or” as used herein can have a variety of meanings that can depend at least in part on the context in which such terms are used. Generally, “or,” when used in an associative list, such as A, B, or C, is intended to mean A, B, and C used herein in an inclusive sense, and A, B, or C used herein in an exclusive sense. Furthermore, as used herein, the terms “one or more” or “at least one” depend at least in part on the context and can be used to describe any feature, structure, or characteristic in a singular sense, or to describe a combination of features, structures, or characteristics in a plural sense. Similarly, terms such as “a,” “an,” or “the” also depend at least in part on the context and can be understood to convey a singular usage or to express a plural usage. Furthermore, the term “based on” can be understood not necessarily to convey a set of exclusive factors, but can depend at least in part on the context, allowing for additional factors that are not necessarily explicitly described again. In addition, as used herein, the term “at least one” can mean “one or more.” For example, “at least one component” can mean “one or more components.”

[0053] It should be noted that, as used herein, the term "coupler" refers to an RF coupler. As used herein, the terms "coupler" and "RF coupler" can refer to the same device or component. An RF (radio frequency) coupler is a device used to transmit RF signals from one circuit or transmission line to another while maintaining signal integrity. A coupler serves as an interface between two radiating elements, allowing efficient signal transmission without significant signal loss or distortion.

[0054] On the other hand, as used herein, the term "antenna" can refer to a transducer that converts electrical signals into electromagnetic waves for transmission or vice versa. Antennas radiate or receive electromagnetic waves in the form of radio waves. Antennas are primarily responsible for wirelessly transmitting and receiving RF signals.

[0055] While antennas are designed to radiate or receive electromagnetic waves, RF couplers facilitate the transmission of RF signals between components or transmission lines. They are often used in scenarios where different parts of a system need to be connected while maintaining signal strength and minimizing loss. RF couplers facilitate the transmission of RF signals between radiating elements through air or a magnetic medium, thereby enabling the re-radiation of RF energy via secondary radiating elements.

[0056] As will be discussed in more detail herein, the disclosed implementation enhances the availability of standard NB-IoT AMIs (also known as “NB-IoT smart water meters”) where signal strength permits. The disclosed implementation enables the utilization of such AMIs even where the depth of the pit had previously prevented their use.

[0057] One implementation may include one end attached (snap-on) to the water meter's radio component and the other end attached to or near a cover of the boundary box. This arrangement enhances the strength of the radio signals received by both the water meter's radio component and the cellular phone system, resulting in several beneficial effects, including, for example, extended battery life and product lifespan for the water meter's radio component, since the battery is not replaceable. Further beneficial effects include improved reliability of water meter readings, alarms, etc., and increased accessibility to metering for a wider population via NB-IoT smart meters. This can significantly increase the success rate of NB-IoT installations while promoting the adoption of all NB-IoT products, even in scenarios where the implementation may not be necessary.

[0058] Figure 1 A visual diagram of a water meter device 100 according to one embodiment is shown, wherein a water meter 121 is located within a boundary box 116. The water meter device 100 serves as a water metering system. Figure 1 In the illustrated embodiment, the boundary box 116 can be used as a protective housing or enclosure surrounding the water meter 121 and its associated components. Figure 1 In the illustrated configuration, the boundary box 116 can be implemented as a housing that surrounds and maintains the water meter 121. It should be noted that the boundary box 116 shown herein is for illustrative and exemplary purposes. That is, the boundary box 116 can be, for example, a readily available component used by a public utility for installing a water meter in a pit. The boundary box 116 is depicted herein merely to illustrate a complete solution installation scenario. That is, other implementations can be achieved without using a boundary box such as the boundary box 116.

[0059] The boundary box 116 can be used to protect the water meter 121 from physical damage, such as accidental impact or exposure to harsh weather conditions. The boundary box 116 also helps prevent tampering or unauthorized access to the water meter 121, thereby ensuring the accuracy of water consumption measurement and preventing water theft.

[0060] While boundary box 116 provides protection and security, it also allows authorized personnel (such as utility workers or meter readers) easy access to water meter 121 for maintenance, repair, or reading purposes. Boundary box 116 can be implemented in various sizes and materials, depending on the specific requirements of the installation site and the type of water meter 121 used. As part of water meter unit 100, boundary box 116 can be installed underground or at ground level near the location where water service enters the house.

[0061] like Figure 1 As shown in the arrangement depicted, coaxial cable 106 can be connected from manhole cover 104 (whose maintenance, for example...) Figure 3 Antenna 118 (as shown) can be extended. That is, coaxial cable 106 can extend antenna 118 (in... Figure 1 (Not shown, but located on top of boundary box 116 via manhole cover 104) connected to coupler 112 (e.g., RF coupler), which can clamp to the communication module of water meter 121. Top 114 of the communication module (e.g., radio component) is located at... Figure 1 As shown in the diagram, the coaxial cable 106 has sufficient slack to allow removal of the manhole cover 104. It should be noted that the manhole cover 104 may be made of a polymer material.

[0062] Water meter 121 may include a radio component 114 located and surrounded by coupler 112. Radio component 114 (also referred to as a communication module) can communicate in the NBIOT band, which in turn can interact with coupler 112. Note that antenna 118 may be used as part of an antenna assembly that may include coaxial cable 106, serving as an external antenna relative to water meter 121 and radio component 114. Coupler 112 may be used as a local coupler.

[0063] Figure 2 A visual diagram is shown of a coupler 112 snapped / clamped onto a radio component 114 according to one embodiment. It should be noted that in the figures illustrated and described herein, the same reference numerals may refer to the same or similar parts or elements. Figure 2 A radio component 114 (i.e., a communication module) relative to coupler 112 is depicted, with a portion of coaxial cable 106 shown extending upwards.

[0064] Figure 3A visual diagram is shown illustrating an antenna 118 secured to a polymer manhole cover 104 using attachment mechanisms 103 and 106 (e.g., screws or clamps) according to one embodiment. The antenna 118 can be mounted in other types of manholes, such as, for example, concrete manholes with metal covers. The antenna 118 can be implemented as part of a horizontally mounted antenna assembly. As shown, the antenna 118 can be configured with multiple segments or lines that can be slightly bent relative to each other. As depicted, the antenna 118 can be arranged in three segments, each segment being slightly bent relative to each other at an angle.

[0065] Right now, Figure 3 The antenna 118 shown may include two or more antenna segments arranged in a zigzag pattern, each segment bending at an angle relative to each other. It should be noted that the zigzag shape of the antenna 118 is not a limiting feature of the embodiment. That is, the antenna 118 may be configured in other shapes. The zigzag shape or form of the antenna 118 shown in the figure is merely for fitting the desired antenna 118 length within the diameter of the boundary box 116 and should not be considered a limiting feature of the embodiment.

[0066] For example, the first antenna segment 118a may be angled relative to the second antenna segment 118b (in this case, the intermediate antenna segment), and the second antenna segment 118b may be angled relative to the third antenna segment 118c. It should be noted that the third antenna segment 118c and the first antenna segment 118b are substantially parallel to each other. In this respect, the antenna 118 can be described as having a Z-shape or zigzag configuration, and in some embodiments it may be configured as a Z-shaped or zigzag antenna. As previously stated, the embodiments are not limited to this particular Z-shape or zigzag configuration.

[0067] In some implementations, the boundary box 116 can serve as a protective enclosure for the water meter 121 and its components, protecting them from physical damage and unauthorized access while ensuring easy accessibility for authorized personnel. This arrangement not only ensures the accuracy of water consumption measurement but also helps prevent water theft. Additionally, as... Figure 1 As shown, the coaxial cable 106, including the radio component 114 extending from the manhole cover 104 to the water meter 121, can improve the functionality and connectivity of the system. This configuration allows for seamless communication between the radio component 114 and other system components, such as... Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown in the diagram. Note the design and installation details; the water meter unit 100 provides a robust solution suitable for various installation locations and water meter types, ultimately contributing to the effectiveness and reliability of the water management system.

[0068] Antenna 118 can be implemented as an IP-68 compliant remote-mounted antenna and coupling antenna to enhance the signal strength of NB-IoT water meters mounted in underground boundary boxes and pits. The disclosed embodiments are traceably mounted on the water meter. The solution couples the signal from the internal antenna to the external antenna via an RF coupler. Furthermore, in some embodiments, a metal plate can be included in cover 104 (to aid in locating the pit with a metal detector) without significantly reducing the strength of the RF signal.

[0069] Figure 4 A visual diagram depicting a coaxial cable 106 connecting coupler 112 and antenna 118 according to one embodiment is shown. Coupler 112 may be shaped as a clamp that fits snugly around radio component 114. Figure 4 In this design, coaxial cable 106 is depicted connecting coupler 112 and antenna 118, thus forming a critical link in the communication chain of the water meter system. Coupler 112 can be designed not only as a connector but also as a clamp, which offers several advantages. This dual functionality simplifies the installation process by securely fastening coupler 112 around radio component 114, ensuring stable connectivity while minimizing the risk of disconnection or interruption. This tight fit improves system reliability and lifespan, thereby reducing maintenance requirements and potential downtime.

[0070] It should be noted that the radio component 114 plays a crucial role in the water meter system of the water meter 121, facilitating wireless communication between various components. Located at the top of the central portion 108 of the water meter 121, the radio component 114 interacts with an RF coupler to exchange basic data and commands. Through this RF communication, the radio component 114 can achieve real-time monitoring of water consumption, remote configuration adjustments, and seamless integration with public utility management systems.

[0071] Integrating antenna 118 into the system enhances its functionality, extends its coverage, and strengthens the signal. For example... Figure 3 As shown, antenna 118 is securely positioned below polymer manhole cover 104 using attachment mechanisms such as screws or clamps. This strategic arrangement ensures optimal signal transmission and reception regardless of environmental conditions. Furthermore, antenna 118 can be mounted horizontally or vertically, providing deployment flexibility to adapt to different installation scenarios.

[0072] Furthermore, regardless of whether the antenna 118 is installed in a polymer pit or a concrete pit, the antenna 118 is a key component in ensuring seamless data transmission within the water meter system.

[0073] Essentially, the coupling of coupler 112, radio component 114, and antenna 118 can form a robust communication infrastructure within boundary box 116, enabling accurate metering, secure data transmission, and, for example, efficient water management.

[0074] Figure 5 A visual diagram depicting antenna 118 according to one embodiment is shown. Figure 5 With Figure 4 The reverse view of the antenna shown illustrates antenna 118.

[0075] Figure 6 A visual diagram depicting the wire path within antenna 118 according to one embodiment is shown. Specifically, the wire can be formed by two conductor segments 120 and 122. Furthermore, Figure 6 A portion of the coaxial cable 106 extending from the antenna 118 is depicted. As previously discussed and shown herein, the coaxial cable 106 extends downward toward the coupler 112.

[0076] Figure 7 A visual diagram depicting a coaxial cable 106 according to one embodiment is shown, wherein one end of the coaxial cable is stripped to expose a central conductor 138 protected by a conductive shield 136 and a dielectric 134. It should be understood that... Figure 7 The illustrations depict the internal components of the coaxial cable 106 and should not be considered as limiting features of the implementation.

[0077] Figure 8 A schematic diagram depicting a portion of coupler 112 and coaxial cable 106 according to one embodiment is shown. The conductors discussed above (e.g., conductor segment 122) are shown partially located on the other side of the holes 131, 133, 135 formed in coupler 112. It should be noted that the depicted "conductors" are... Figure 7 A portion of the stripped coaxial cable 106 is shown.

[0078] Figure 9 A schematic diagram is shown of a coupler 112 having a conductor 122 for picking up the ground plane of the radio module PCB and a coupler 112 for picking up the antenna of the radio module via conductor 120, according to one embodiment.

[0079] Figures 1 to 9 The configuration shown utilizes a coaxial cable 106, which can provide dual functionality: connection to the internal antenna of a radio water meter connected to radio component 114, and communication with a remotely located antenna 118. This remote antenna 118 can be located on the ground plane or in a similar location where signal strength from a cellular tower is optimal.

[0080] In some implementations, both the RF coupler 112 and the remote antenna 118 can be encapsulated in a polymer via overmolding, forming a protective housing suitable for water meter environments. The coupler 112 is designed to snap onto or around the internal antenna of the radio component 114, effectively directing RF energy to the coaxial cable 106. This integrated design offers several advantages: it combines the coupler, coaxial cable, and antenna into a single component, minimizing component count and cost while maximizing simplicity and robustness. The absence of joints or connectors minimizes potential points of failure.

[0081] Figure 10 A visual diagram is shown of a water meter communication module 142 with an internal antenna and another coupler design 112 according to one embodiment. Figure 10 The configuration shown can be implemented as an improved snap-fit ​​device. Figure 10 The arrangement shown may also include a plastic latch feature 148, which can snap onto the water meter communication module 142. Coaxial cable 106 is in... Figure 10 It is also shown as extending upward from coupler 112 and can be used to connect an external or remote antenna.

[0082] Figure 11 An embodiment is shown. Figure 10 The diagram shows the structure of the water meter communication module 121, but a visual representation of the internal antenna 141 and other internal components is also visible. It should be noted that the internal antenna 141 can be used as an antenna device that may include the external antenna 118 and the internal device 141.

[0083] Figure 12 A visual diagram illustrating an internal view of an RF coupler 112 according to one embodiment is shown. The RF coupler 112 may include an IP68-compliant coupler housing that can accommodate an RF coupling metal or copper layer 113 that can pick up radio PCB ground plane 111 signals toward feature 112b and can pick up signals from the radio PCB ground plane 111 toward feature 112a via the copper layer 113. Figure 12 The rubber gasket 117 shown helps to make the housing conform to IP68. Features 112a and 112b can be glued together and secured with the rubber gasket 117 to achieve the IP68 rating.

[0084] therefore, Figure 12An exploded view of the design of RF coupler 112 is shown, depicting a visual breakdown of the internal operation of RF coupler 112. Within RF coupler 112, a housing may be designed to meet IP68 standards. The housing may be configured to house an RF coupling copper layer 113. This RF coupling copper layer 113 can serve, for example, two purposes: it can collect the radio PCB ground plane 111 towards feature 112b and it can collect the copper layer 113 towards feature 112a, thereby picking up both radio PCB ground plane signals and internal antenna signals from radio components or communication modules. Feature 112a may be used as part of the housing and may be mounted above feature 112b. To ensure the housing meets IP68 requirements, a rubber gasket 117 may be included. Features 112a and 112b may be glued together and secured with the rubber gasket 117 to achieve the IP68 rating. The PCB ground plane 111 and the RF coupling copper layer 113 may be located within the housing.

[0085] Figure 13 A transparent view of the coupler design of coupler 112 according to one embodiment is shown. Coaxial cable 106 is shown extending upward from RF coupler 112. Note that... Figure 10 , Figure 11 , Figure 12 , Figure 13 The configuration shown depicts the design of an RF coupler that may include the use of a rigid PCB or a flexible PCB based on a material such as FPC (flexible printed copper) or stainless steel, housed within a polymer housing. The rigid / FPC / metal layer can be designed to couple maximum RF signals through air from an internal antenna used for the wideband NBIOT band.

[0086] Coaxial cable 106 can be connected to the RF coupler, which is fixed and supported by plastic guides. A remote antenna can be connected to the other end of coaxial cable 106, which supports the NBIOT band. Furthermore, the RF coupler is IP68 compliant via a glued plastic housing 112, thus protecting it from harsh environments. Additionally, the RF coupler 112 can snap onto / above the internal antenna and couple RF energy to the remote antenna via air. The RF coupler loss is less than 10 dB across the entire broadband frequency range.

[0087] therefore, Figure 10 , Figure 11 , Figure 12 and Figure 13The configuration depicted illustrates an alternative implementation of the RF coupler design. As mentioned above, the coupler can be constructed using a rigid PCB, flexible printed copper (FPC), or stainless steel, all housed within a polymer housing. The rigid / FPC / metal layer can be designed to effectively couple RF signals transmitted through the air medium from an internal antenna (particularly for antennas in the broadband NBIOT band).

[0088] Figure 14 A cross-sectional view of an RF coupler 112 and an internal antenna 114 in an RF coupling arrangement according to one embodiment is shown. As previously described, a coaxial cable 106 extends upward from the device.

[0089] Figure 15 A visual depiction of a water meter device 100 according to one embodiment is shown, wherein a cover 104 is located on top of a boundary box 116. Note that... Figure 15 The configuration shown is a visual depiction of the long-range antenna, not an actual design. Figure 15 In the example embodiment shown, antenna 218 can be mounted beneath polymer manhole cover 104. Antenna 219 can be encapsulated for IP68 protection, wherein antenna 218 is threaded onto polymer cover 104. Optionally, the dimensions and positions of plates 92 and 94 can be configured to have minimal impact on the NBIOT RF signal.

[0090] Figure 16 A visual depiction of a pit cover 104 tethered to a pit according to one embodiment is shown. Cable 106 is also shown extending from antenna 218 and cover 104 into boundary box 116. Note that... Figure 16 The configuration shown is a visual depiction of the long-range antenna, not an actual design.

[0091] Figure 17 An RF coupler 112 is shown that snaps onto a communication module or radio component 114 housing an internal antenna, according to one embodiment. Figure 17 It also depicts multiple clamping points 96 and 98, in which clamps securely surround the equipment. Figure 17 As shown in the image.

[0092] Figure 18 An RF coupler snapped onto a radio component 114 housing an internal antenna, and a volumetric water meter 121 with the radio component 114 clamped in place, are shown according to one embodiment.

[0093] Figure 19A complete solution for a water meter device 100 in the environment of a boundary box 116 is illustrated. The solution provided by the water meter device 100 may include a volumetric water meter 121, a communication module (e.g., radio component 114) clamped to the volumetric water meter 121 and housing an internal antenna, and an RF coupler snapped onto the communication module / radio component 114. The water meter device 100 may also include a coaxial cable 106 and an antenna 118 mounted beneath the boundary box cover 104.

[0094] Sufficient cable slack is important for maintaining well accessibility in water metering systems. This slack ensures that technicians or maintenance personnel can easily access components within the well without the risk of damaging the cable or connectors. Sufficient cable slack provides flexibility during installation and maintenance activities. This prevents strain on the cable and its connectors, reducing the likelihood of damage or breakage due to tension or movement. Additionally, it facilitates the adjustment or replacement of components in the system without requiring extensive reinstallation or cable management.

[0095] Furthermore, sufficient slack allows for any potential movement or relocation of components over time, ensuring the continued functionality and reliability of the water metering system. This also allows for future system upgrades or modifications without requiring major changes to the cable layout or connections.

[0096] Based on the foregoing, it is understood that numerous embodiments are disclosed herein, including preferred and alternative embodiments. For example, in one embodiment, an antenna device may include a coaxial cable, wherein one end of the coaxial cable forms a remote antenna, and the other end of the coaxial cable includes a local coupler, wherein both ends of the coaxial cable are overmolded to provide protection in a water meter device including a water meter.

[0097] In one implementation, the local coupler may be configured to snap onto the communication module of the water meter.

[0098] In one implementation, the local coupler can be implemented as an RF coupler capable of operating for a wideband RF frequency range of 790MHz to 1900MHz.

[0099] In one implementation, the RF coupler can operate with low loss of less than 10 dB for a wideband RF frequency range of 790 MHz to 1900 MHz.

[0100] In one implementation, the local coupler can be implemented as a clamp coupler that can act as a clamp to engage with the radio components associated with the water meter.

[0101] In one implementation, the remote antenna can be mounted on the well pit cover.

[0102] In one implementation, the coaxial cable can be used as a remote antenna.

[0103] In another embodiment, an antenna device may include: a coaxial cable and a remote antenna; a local coupler formed of two metal layers; and a plastic housing, wherein the local coupler is secured by the plastic housing, and wherein the coaxial cable is connected at one end to the local coupler and at the other end to the remote antenna.

[0104] In one implementation, the plastic housing can be made into an IP68 compliant plastic housing.

[0105] In another embodiment, a metering system may be implemented, which may include: a remote antenna; a coupler attached to a water meter communication module; and a coaxial cable that picks up RF signals from an internal antenna of the water meter communication module and acts as a remote antenna to facilitate efficient transmission of RF signals between the remote antenna and the water meter communication module, thereby improving signal strength and minimizing signal attenuation within the metering system.

[0106] In one implementation, the coupler can be implemented as an RF coupler, which, for ECL2 coverage locations, can increase the battery life of the battery associated with the metering system by, for example, 60%.

[0107] It should be understood that the variations and other features and functions disclosed above, or alternative forms thereof, can be advantageously combined into many other different systems or applications. It should also be understood that various alternatives, modifications, variations, or improvements that are not currently foreseen or anticipated can subsequently be made by those skilled in the art, and these alternatives, modifications, variations, or improvements are also intended to be covered by the following claims.

Claims

1. An antenna device, the antenna device comprising: A coaxial cable, wherein one end of the coaxial cable forms a remote antenna and the other end of the coaxial cable includes a local coupler, wherein both ends of the coaxial cable are overmolded to provide protection in a water meter device including a water meter.

2. The antenna device according to claim 1, wherein the local coupler is configured to snap onto the communication module of the water meter.

3. The antenna device of claim 1, wherein the local coupler comprises an RF coupler capable of operating for a wideband RF frequency range of 790MHz to 1900MHz.

4. The antenna device according to claim 1 further includes an RF coupler, the RF coupler operating with low loss of less than 10 dB for a wideband RF frequency range of 790 MHz to 1900 MHz.

5. The antenna device of claim 1, wherein the local coupler includes a clamp coupler that engages as a clamp with a radio component associated with the water meter.

6. An antenna device, the antenna device comprising: Coaxial cable and remote antenna; A local coupler, wherein the local coupler is formed of two metal layers; A plastic housing, wherein the local coupler is fixed by the plastic housing, and wherein the coaxial cable is connected at one end to the local coupler and at the other end to the remote antenna.

7. The antenna device of claim 6, wherein the plastic housing comprises a plastic housing conforming to IP68.

8. The antenna device according to claim 6, wherein the coupler comprises an RF coupler.

9. A metering system, the metering system comprising: Remote antenna; A coupler, which is attached to the water meter communication module; A coaxial cable is provided, which picks up RF signals from the internal antenna of the water meter communication module and acts as a remote antenna to facilitate efficient transmission of RF signals between the remote antenna and the water meter communication module, thereby improving signal strength and minimizing signal attenuation within the metering system.

10. The metering system of claim 8, wherein the coupler includes an RF coupler that, for ECL2 coverage locations, increases the battery life of the battery associated with the metering system by 60%.

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