Covering device and method for communication

Abstract

The present invention relates to a covering device (11) for a drainage device (10) for discharging liquids, particularly for civil engineering, and more particularly for drainage devices (10) for discharging liquids, the covering device having a radio unit (12) which can be inserted into or inserted into an opening (13) of the covering device (11), and comprising: - at least one antenna carrier housing (14), and - at least one antenna (15) having at least one fundamental frequency, the antenna being disposed in the antenna carrier housing (14) and configured for receiving or transmitting radio signals, particularly at least one first and one second antenna (15a, 15b), wherein at least one antenna (15) has at least one resonant frequency in use due to its placement in the antenna carrier housing (14) and / or in the covering device (11), wherein the fundamental frequency of the antenna (15) is configured to be 0.3% to 30% greater than the resonant frequency.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a covering device for a drainage device, particularly for civil engineering and even more particularly for draining liquids. Background Technology

[0002] In densely populated areas, buffering against heavy rainfall events becomes increasingly problematic as the proportion of enclosed land increases. Meanwhile, within the context of climate change, the ground is consistently becoming drier. Therefore, there is a compelling need for modern and intelligent rainwater management to prevent flooding and to proactively store precipitation so that it can be used for targeted irrigation elsewhere or at a later time.

[0003] A drainage system is a technical solution for draining rainwater. Corresponding sensors within the drainage system can monitor water levels, settlement, or similar parameters. Data collected in this way allows for analysis of the relationships between weather events and their environmental impacts, and enables the corresponding configuration of the entire facility's functions.

[0004] Typically, such dehydration devices are installed in the ground. Due to the strong attenuation of radio waves in soil, radio communication between the outside and corresponding sensors or communication mechanisms inside the drainage device is problematic. For example, a radio unit with an antenna for wireless communication between the inside and outside of a radio wave blocking structure is known from WO2021 / 157028 A1. However, a disadvantage here is that the antenna is not protected against environmental influences such as temperature or humidity.

[0005] Furthermore, it is known that the antenna is installed within the cover of the drainage device. This type of antenna installation is known, for example, from JP H11-66484 A or US2008 / 0106434 A1. Covering devices, such as well covers, are typically made of metal, such as cast iron, and impair signal transmission. Summary of the Invention

[0006] Therefore, the objective of this invention is to provide a covering device, particularly for civil engineering and even more particularly for drainage devices that discharge liquids, which enables improved communication between the interior and exterior of a building. A further objective of this invention is to provide a method for communication between a building and a communication mechanism located on the exterior of the building.

[0007] According to the present invention, the objective is achieved by a covering device having the features of claim 1. Regarding the method, the objective is achieved by claims 16 and 17, which are arranged side-by-side.

[0008] Specifically, this objective is achieved by a covering device for a drainage system, particularly for civil engineering and even more particularly for draining liquids, the covering device having a radio unit that can be inserted into or inserted into an opening in the covering device. The radio unit includes at least one antenna carrier housing and at least one antenna having at least one fundamental frequency. The antenna is disposed within the antenna carrier housing and configured to receive or transmit radio signals. In use, the antenna has at least one resonant frequency due to its placement within the antenna carrier housing and / or the covering device, wherein the fundamental frequency of the antenna is configured to be 0.3% to 30% higher than the resonant frequency.

[0009] Preferably, the coverage device has at least one first and one second antenna. The invention is not limited to coverage devices with at least two antennas, but includes coverage devices with a single antenna. The basic principle of the invention is that the fundamental frequency of at least one antenna is configured to be 0.3% to 30% higher than the resonant frequency, and the device operates using a single antenna. A coverage device having at least two antennas configured according to the basic principles of the invention is a particularly preferred embodiment.

[0010] The covering device according to the invention is particularly suitable for use in civil engineering, such as in above-ground or underground structures. It is especially suitable for covering devices used for draining liquids, but is not limited thereto. The invention can generally be used in civil engineering when radio signals need to be transmitted from the interior of a building to its external area. An example application is a well-like covering device or covering device for upper suites in civil engineering.

[0011] Drainage devices can be configured for discharging liquids, especially water, such as drainage wells, drainage ditches, drainage channels, or generally as devices for drainage, suitable for installation in the ground or in buildings, such as roofs. Covering devices can be configured, for example, covers, especially manhole covers, inlet grilles, inlet sieves, or the like.

[0012] This invention has various advantages.

[0013] A radio unit is used for communication between the internal and external areas of a building via signal transmission. On one hand, a coverage device separates the internal and external areas. On the other hand, the coverage device establishes a communication connection between the internal and external areas of the building through a radio unit disposed therein. Therefore, the radio unit enables signal connection, for example, between a sensor installed underground (internal area) and a communication device installed on the ground (external area). Thus, for example, counter readings from inside the building, data regarding water levels, or data regarding sedimentation can be transmitted to a receiver on the ground. These applications should be understood as exemplary. The invention can be applied to the transmission of other data between internal and external areas.

[0014] Data transmission can be unidirectional or bidirectional.

[0015] Radio units can enable data transmission via NBIoT (Narrowband Internet of Things) or LoRaWAN (Long-Range Wide Area Network), for example.

[0016] At least one antenna of the radio unit is disposed within an antenna carrier housing during use. For example, the antenna is cast or embedded in the antenna carrier housing, or the antenna is completely surrounded or encapsulated by the potting material of the antenna carrier housing. The antenna carrier housing is preferably configured to provide good radio permeability. Furthermore, the antenna carrier housing protects the antenna from environmental influences such as temperature fluctuations or moisture.

[0017] The covering device according to the invention provides a compensation region for the base frequency of the antenna, through which the attenuation of the base frequency through the covering device and / or the antenna carrier housing can be compensated.

[0018] The fundamental frequency is understood as the frequency of the antenna before it is installed in the drainage system, i.e., before attenuation by the covering device and / or the antenna carrier housing. The fundamental frequency of the antenna is measurable before it is installed in the drainage system. The fundamental frequency differs from the expected final frequency of the antenna in its installed state.

[0019] In its installed state, the antenna has a resonant frequency. The resonant frequency of the antenna is measurable after the antenna is installed in the drainage device. Therefore, the resonant frequency depends on or is influenced by the components of the drainage device surrounding or near the antenna. These components include, for example, the antenna carrier housing or covering device. The resonant frequency corresponds to the desired final frequency of the antenna, which is necessary for effective communication, especially with external transmitters / receivers. The desired final frequency, or resonant frequency, is achieved after assembling the components of the covering device, more precisely by changing or attenuating the fundamental frequency of the antenna.

[0020] Generally, it is applicable to alter, and in particular attenuate, the fundamental frequency of the antenna in all components located near it. This is especially true if metallic materials are located near the antenna and / or if the antenna is in direct contact with other materials, for example, by casting or embedding the antenna into an antenna carrier housing.

[0021] Therefore, according to the present invention, the fundamental frequency and the resonant frequency of the antenna are different in the installed state or in use. Specifically, the fundamental frequency is greater than or higher than the resonant frequency.

[0022] Because the resonant frequency, or the desired final frequency, is related to the components of the cover device and / or antenna carrier housing, or generally to the materials of external components located near the antenna, such as the cover device and / or antenna carrier housing, the fundamental frequency of the antenna is adjusted before final assembly—that is, before the antenna is cast into the antenna carrier housing and before the radio unit is introduced into the cover device. Here, the fundamental frequency is set such that the antenna, in its installed state, has the frequency required for transmitting or receiving signals. In other words, the fundamental frequency of the antenna is set such that the desired resonant frequency is achieved in the installed state. This can be achieved, for example, by changing the area of ​​the antenna, such as by cutting the antenna. Other methods of frequency tuning are conceivable.

[0023] According to the present invention, the fundamental frequency of the antenna is configured such that it is 0.3% to 30% higher than the resonant frequency. By using this compensation range for the fundamental frequency of the antenna, the desired final frequency, i.e., the resonant frequency, is achieved particularly well in the installed state. It has been shown that if the fundamental frequency is configured such that it is 0.3% to 30% higher than the resonant frequency, the attenuation of the antenna frequency can be compensated particularly well by the components of the drainage device.

[0024] It is particularly feasible to construct the fundamental frequency in a manner that is 0.3% to 20%, especially 0.3% to 15%, especially 0.3% to 10%, and especially 0.3% to 5% larger than the resonant frequency.

[0025] Preferred embodiments of the invention are given in the dependent claims. This relates to embodiments of the invention having at least two antennas, particularly exactly two antennas. Embodiments of the invention having at least one antenna, particularly a single antenna, are also disclosed and claimed.

[0026] Preferably, the radio unit includes at least one first and one second antenna, wherein the base frequencies of the first and second antennas are designed for different frequency ranges. Advantageously, the frequencies of the first and second antennas can be influenced differently by their arrangement in the coverage device.

[0027] Therefore, the first antenna can be positioned closer to the ground surface than the second antenna. Here, the antenna closer to the surface experiences less frequency attenuation than the antenna farther from the surface. Alternatively or additionally, the first and second antennas can be housed in different antenna carrier housings or in different components of the antenna carrier housing. Here, the two antennas can be surrounded by different potting compounds, which can cause different attenuations of the antenna's fundamental frequency. To account for the different attenuations of the two antennas' fundamental frequencies, the first and second antennas can therefore be set to different fundamental frequencies. For example, the surfaces of the two antennas can be changed or adjusted differently.

[0028] Furthermore, the resonant frequencies of the first and second antennas are advantageously designed for the same frequency range. Therefore, the two antennas advantageously have the same desired final frequency. This is particularly advantageous for communication between the antennas. To ensure that the two antennas have the same resonant frequency, the fundamental frequencies of the antennas can be different. Here, the fundamental frequencies of the first and second antennas can be adjusted separately such that the antennas achieve the same resonant frequency in the installed state through different attenuations of the fundamental frequency.

[0029] The resonant frequencies of the first and second antennas can be designed for a frequency range between 800 MHz and 6500 MHz. This frequency range can be matched to the installation location and / or other local conditions. In this way, the flexibility of the radio unit is increased.

[0030] Preferably, the first and second antennas are connected to each other via signal lines, particularly coaxial cables, for transmitting or receiving radio signals. This allows for bidirectional transmission of radio signals through the coverage device in a simple manner and method without significant attenuation of the transmitted signal. This significantly improves signal transmission.

[0031] In one embodiment, the first and / or second antennas comprise ceramic antennas. Advantageously, ceramic antennas are relatively insensitive to metal in their immediate surrounding environment. This is advantageous because ceramic antennas can, for example, be positioned in direct contact with or very close to metal without causing, for example, a short circuit. Particularly in well-like covering devices made of metal, such as cast iron, ceramic antennas can therefore be mounted in a structurally simple manner. Furthermore, this enables a compact structure. Signal transmission is significantly improved, especially compared to conventional (wire) antennas, by using ceramic antennas in well-like covering devices made of cast iron.

[0032] Typically, the covering device can be made partly or entirely of metallic materials.

[0033] Furthermore, the first and second antennas can be configured substantially in a planar shape. The area ratio of the first and second antennas can be between 1:2 and 1:12.

[0034] Preferably, the second antenna, positioned further away from the surface than the first antenna, can have a larger area than the second antenna. The larger surface area of ​​the antenna on the inner side of the covering device allows for the reception of weak signals even from internal regions, particularly those facing the interior of buildings, such as wells. Overall, it is evident that particularly good signal transmission through covering devices, especially those made of metal, is achieved because the different surfaces of the antenna fall within the aforementioned area ratio range.

[0035] In one embodiment, the first and second antennas are configured such that they radiate in substantially opposite directions. This allows for bidirectional transmission of radio signals through the coverage device in a structurally particularly simple manner.

[0036] Furthermore, the first and second antennas can be separately arranged in the longitudinal direction of the radio unit, and particularly centered perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. This should preferably be understood as allowing the two antennas to be spaced apart from each other within the radio unit. For example, the antennas can be separated by antenna carrier housings. Here, the antennas can be housed in different antenna carrier housings, i.e., each housed in its own antenna carrier housing, thereby spaced apart from each other. This structure of the radio unit or this arrangement of the first and second antennas enables the reduction of signal interference or attenuation from the coverage device through corresponding arrangements. This improves signal transmission quality.

[0037] Furthermore, the first and second antennas can be positioned substantially separately along the longitudinal direction of the radio unit, by an amount equal to the maximum thickness of the covering device. In other words, the two antennas are positioned in or inserted into two surfaces of the covering device facing the inner and outer regions during use. The antennas are spaced apart from each other by a maximum distance. This configuration minimizes the impact of the covering device on signal quality, thereby improving transmission quality.

[0038] In another embodiment, the radio unit can be inserted into an opening in the coverage device, such that the first antenna faces outward from the coverage device and the second antenna faces inward from the coverage device. Here, the first antenna is preferably capable of communicating with a transmitter / receiver located on the ground, i.e., the first antenna can receive signals from the transmitter located on the ground or transmit signals to the receiver located on the ground. The second antenna can communicate with a transmitter / receiver located underground, i.e., the second antenna can receive signals from the transmitter located underground or transmit signals to the receiver located underground. Here, the first and second antennas can communicate with each other to transmit signals from the underground transmitter to the ground receiver. Conversely, the antennas can transmit signals from the ground transmitter to the underground receiver. Therefore, bidirectional signal transmission is possible through the antenna arrangement. Furthermore, this structure of the radio unit reduces signal interference or attenuation characteristics of the coverage device through the corresponding antenna arrangement, thereby improving signal transmission quality.

[0039] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the antenna carrier housing is constructed in multiple parts, particularly in two parts. Here, the antenna carrier housing may include an upper housing component and a lower housing component. A first antenna is preferably disposed in the upper housing component. Here, the upper housing component can be inserted into the opening of the covering device from a first direction, such that the upper side of the upper housing component closes the opening of the covering device. A second antenna is preferably disposed in the lower housing component. Here, the lower housing component can be inserted into the opening of the covering device from a second direction, such that the lower side of the lower housing component closes the opening of the covering device. By inserting the elements of the antenna carrier housing from both sides (two directions), the radio unit is securely and reliably fastened in the covering device. The insertion of the upper housing component from above (the first direction) ensures reliable retention. The insertion of the lower housing component from the opposite direction ensures that the radio unit is fixedly positioned and the antenna is reliably disposed in the antenna carrier housing. This allows for a synergistic effect, securing the radio unit securely on the one hand, and protecting the antenna (relative to weather, etc.) on the other. In particular, in this way, the radio unit cannot be removed from the outside (i.e., protected from theft) and is simultaneously held in such a way that it does not fall into a well.

[0040] An alternative to a multi-piece, particularly two-piece, antenna carrier housing design can utilize two essentially independent antenna carrier housings. Here, the first antenna can be housed in the upper (closer to the surface) housing, and the second antenna can be housed in the lower (farther from the surface) housing. These two housings can be connected to each other to ensure good communication between the antennas.

[0041] Preferably, the antenna carrier housing or upper and / or lower components are formed of or constructed of polyurethane (PUR). If the radio unit has two antenna carrier housings, both housings may be formed of or constructed of polyurethane (PUR). Polyurethane advantageously possesses high abrasion resistance, high temperature stability, and high chemical resistance to environmental impacts. This ensures optimal protection for the antenna.

[0042] The upper and lower housing components can be connected to each other in a form-fitting and / or material-fitting and / or force-fitting manner during use. For this purpose, the upper housing component preferably has multiple, particularly four, protrusions, and the lower housing component has a corresponding number of recesses. Alternatively, it is possible for the protrusions to be located in the lower housing component and the recesses in the upper housing component. Here, the protrusions are configured to engage with the recesses. This allows for a reliable form-fitting connection between the housing components. Furthermore, this connection has high torsional strength. Alternatively or additionally, the upper and lower housing components can be connected to each other in a material-fitting manner. For example, the protrusions and recesses of the housing components can be bonded together to ensure a reliable connection between the housing components.

[0043] Furthermore, the upper and lower housing components can be connected to the covering device in a shape-fitting and / or material-fitting and / or force-fitting manner. For this purpose, the covering device can have an intermediate base plate. The intermediate base plate can have a corresponding number of through openings through which protrusions of the upper or lower housing components can be guided. The intermediate base plate is advantageously used to bear loads, particularly those formed from above, such as those of vehicles traveling on it. Alternatively or additionally, it is also possible for the upper and lower housing components to be connected to the covering device in a material-fitting manner, particularly by adhesive bonding. This allows for a waterproof connection. In this way, the signal lines between the first and second antennas, especially the coaxial cables, can be protected from corrosion.

[0044] Furthermore, the upper side of the components on the housing can have grooves, particularly to make the upper side non-slip, preferably constructed according to DIN ENISO 124-1. The grooves allow the upper side of the antenna carrier housing to be directly used as a (visible) element on the upper side of the coverage device without compromising its non-slip properties. This eliminates the need for other (non-slip) elements above the antenna carrier housing, allowing the upper antenna to be positioned closer to the upper side of the coverage device. In this way, signal characteristics can be improved and non-slip safety can be ensured for passing or traveling on the upper side of the well-shaped radio unit (or well-shaped coverage device) in a coordinated manner.

[0045] The two methods of claims 16 and 17 respectively protect unidirectional communication or signal transmission. Additionally, the combination of these two methods, i.e., the bidirectional method (i.e., sending and / or receiving), is also disclosed and claimed.

[0046] These two methods yield the same advantages as those already described in conjunction with the covering device. Attached Figure Description

[0047] The invention is described in detail with reference to the embodiments and illustrative drawings.

[0048] As shown in the attached figures

[0049] Figure 1 A perspective view of the covering device according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0050] Figure 2 Showing through according to Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of the covering device; and

[0051] Figure 3 Showing according to Figure 1 A magnified portion of the radio unit of the coverage device. Detailed Implementation

[0052] Figure 1 An embodiment of the invention is shown of a cover device 11 for a drainage device 10. Specifically, this relates to a cover device 11 for a well. Other cover devices are also feasible, for example, for drainage ditches or drains or other applications in civil engineering, wherein the cover device separates an interior area of ​​a building from an exterior area outside the building. The drainage device 10 is generally used to drain liquids and is suitable for installation in the ground.

[0053] The covering device 11 is made of metal, specifically cast iron. Other materials are conceivable.

[0054] The covering device 11 includes a radio unit 12. The radio unit 12 is used for communication between communication devices located above and below ground. Specifically, the radio unit 12 transmits information from the drainage well, such as data regarding the water level, to a receiver located outside the well. The radio unit 12 is also used to receive information from a transmitter outside the well.

[0055] exist Figure 1 and Figure 2 As can be seen, the radio unit 12 is inserted into the opening 13 of the covering device 11. The opening 13 of the covering device 11 and the radio unit 12 are formed accordingly.

[0056] The radio unit 12 includes an antenna carrier housing 14. The antenna carrier housing 14 is used to house a planar antenna 15. Here, the antenna 15 is disposed within the antenna carrier housing 14 such that the antenna 15 is completely surrounded or enclosed by the housing material. Specifically, the antenna 15 is cast into the antenna carrier housing 14. The antenna carrier housing 14 protects the antenna 15 from environmental influences and ensures the correct orientation of the antenna 15.

[0057] Antenna 15 has a base frequency and is configured to receive or transmit radio signals. The base frequency is preset before antenna 15 is inserted into or installed in radio unit 12. Specifically, the base frequency is set by correspondingly cutting antenna 15. The base frequency is measurable before antenna 15 is installed in coverage device 11.

[0058] Antenna 15 has a resonant frequency during use because it is located within the antenna carrier housing 14 and the covering device 11. Therefore, the resonant frequency is measurable after antenna 15 is installed in radio unit 12. The resonant frequency depends on the drainage device 10. Figure 1 and Figure 2 The components shown are arranged around or near the antenna 15. The antenna carrier housing 14 and the covering device 11 belong to these components. These components alter or attenuate the fundamental frequency of the antenna 15 to achieve a resonant frequency. The resonant frequency corresponds to the desired final frequency of the antenna 15, which is necessary for communication with communication devices located underground and on the ground.

[0059] To account for this frequency attenuation, the fundamental frequency of antenna 15 is configured to be a specific amount larger than the resonant frequency. According to... Figures 1 to 3 In this embodiment, the fundamental frequency of antenna 15 is configured to be 0.3% to 30% higher than the resonant frequency. In the illustrated mounting configuration, this compensation range of the fundamental frequency of antenna 15 achieves the desired final frequency, i.e., the resonant frequency. Here, when the fundamental frequency is configured to be 0.3% to 30% higher than the resonant frequency, the attenuation of the antenna frequency due to the covering device 11 and the antenna carrier housing 14 is particularly well compensated.

[0060] It is particularly feasible to construct the fundamental frequency in a manner that is 0.3% to 20%, especially 0.3% to 15%, especially 0.3% to 10%, or especially 0.3% to 5% larger than the resonant frequency.

[0061] Figure 2 and Figure 3The radio unit 12 is also shown to include first and second antennas 15a and 15b. The first antenna 15a is positioned closer to the ground surface than the second antenna 15b. The fundamental frequencies of the first and second antennas 15a and 15b are designed for different frequency ranges. This takes into account the different placement of antennas 15a and 15b within the coverage device 11. Consequently, the first antenna 15a experiences less attenuation than the second antenna 15b due to its closer placement to the surface. Furthermore, the first and second antennas 15a and 15b are disposed in different antenna carrier housings 14 or different portions of the antenna carrier housing 14. This also causes different attenuations of the fundamental frequencies of the two antennas 15a and 15b. To correspondingly account for the different attenuations of the fundamental frequencies of the two antennas 15a and 15b, the first and second antennas 15a and 15b are therefore set to different fundamental frequencies.

[0062] Specifically, the surfaces of the two antennas 15a and 15b are configured differently.

[0063] Furthermore, the resonant frequencies of the first and second antennas 15a and 15b are designed for the same frequency range. This is necessary for communication between antennas 15a and 15b. Therefore, the fundamental frequencies of the first and second antennas 15a and 15b are set such that, despite different attenuations of the fundamental frequencies, antennas 15a and 15b have the same resonant frequency in the installed state.

[0064] Here, the resonant frequencies of the first and second antennas 15a and 15b are designed for a frequency range between 800 MHz and 6500 MHz, thus covering not only LoRaWAN but also NB-IoT in the gigabit range and military frequencies. Other frequency ranges are feasible.

[0065] In addition, from Figure 3 It can also be seen that the first and second antennas 15a and 15b are connected to each other via signal line 16. This signal line 16 is used for communication between antennas 15a and 15b or for transmitting or receiving radio signals. Specifically, the first and second antennas 15a and 15b are connected to each other via coaxial cable, thereby enabling bidirectional through-transmission of radio signals.

[0066] According to Figures 1 to 3 In this embodiment, the first antenna 15a and the second antenna 15b include ceramic antennas. In other words, these two antennas 15a and 15b are configured as ceramic antennas.

[0067] Furthermore, the first and second antennas 15a and 15b are substantially planar in shape. Antennas 15a and 15b have different sizes or different areas. Specifically, the area ratio of the first antenna 15a to the second antenna 15b is between 1:2 and 1:12.

[0068] As can be seen, the first antenna 15a and the second antenna 15b are arranged in the coverage device 11 such that they radiate in substantially opposite directions. Here, the first antenna 15a radiates toward the transmitter / receiver on the ground, and the second antenna 15b radiates toward the transmitter / receiver underground.

[0069] The first and second antennas 15a and 15b are separated in the longitudinal direction L of the radio unit 12. In other words, the two antennas 15a and 15b are arranged spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction L inside the radio unit 12. In addition, the first and second antennas 15a and 15b are arranged centered perpendicular to the longitudinal direction L.

[0070] The first and second antennas 15a and 15b are arranged separately along the longitudinal direction L of the radio unit 12 by the amount of the maximum thickness of the covering device 11, that is, they are spaced apart from each other by the maximum distance in the covering device 11.

[0071] According to Figures 1 to 3 In one embodiment, the radio unit 12 is inserted into the opening 13 of the coverage device 11, such that the first antenna 15a faces outward from the coverage device 11 and the second antenna 15b faces inward from the coverage device 11. Therefore, the first antenna 15a can communicate with a transmitter / receiver located on the ground, and the second antenna 15b can communicate with a transmitter / receiver located underground.

[0072] exist Figure 2 and Figure 3 The antenna carrier housing 14 shown is constructed in two parts. Here, the antenna carrier housing 14 includes an upper housing component 14a and a lower housing component 14b. The upper housing component 14a and the lower housing component 14b each form a closed housing.

[0073] The first antenna 15a is disposed in the housing upper component 14a. Here, the housing upper component 14a is inserted into the opening 13 of the covering device 11 from the first direction R1, such that the upper side of the housing upper component 14a closes the opening 13 of the covering device 11.

[0074] The second antenna 15b is disposed in the lower housing component 14b. Here, the lower housing component 14b is inserted into the opening 13 of the covering device 11 from the second direction R2, such that the lower side of the lower housing component 14b closes the opening 13 of the covering device 11.

[0075] The antenna carrier housing 14, or the upper housing component 14a and / or the lower housing component 14b, is formed of polyurethane (PUR). Other materials are conceivable. For example, the antenna carrier housing 14 may be formed of other castable materials, such as concrete or polymer concrete.

[0076] The upper housing component 14a and the lower housing component 14b are connected to each other in a form-fitting manner in the shown installed state. It can be seen that the upper housing component 14a has four protrusions 17, and the lower housing component 14b has four recesses 18. Here, the protrusions 17 are configured to engage with the recesses 18. This achieves a form-fitting connection between the housing components 14a and 14b. Furthermore, it can be seen that one of the four protrusions 17 and its associated recess 18 is larger than the remaining protrusions 17 and recesses 18. This allows the housing components 14a and 14b to be connected to each other in only one position. This ensures the correct orientation of the antennas 15a and 15b.

[0077] Furthermore, the upper housing component 14a and the lower housing component 14b are connected to the cover device 11 in a form-fitting and material-fitting manner. A force-fit connection is also feasible. For this purpose, the cover device 11 has an intermediate base plate 19. The intermediate base plate 19 has four through openings through which the protrusion 17 of the upper housing component 14a passes. Additionally, the intermediate base plate 10 has additional openings for guiding the signal lines 16 of the antennas 15a and 15b through.

[0078] Additionally, the upper housing component 14a and the lower housing component 14b are connected to the covering device 11 by adhesive bonding, specifically using materials that fit together. In other words, the antenna carrier housing 14 is bonded to the covering device 11.

[0079] Figure 1 It is also shown that the upper side of component 14a on the housing has grooves. The grooves are constructed according to DIN EN ISO 124-1, so that the grooves are non-slip.

[0080] Other implementations with a single antenna within the coverage device are also feasible. Here, another antenna can be positioned outside the coverage device, for example, inside a well, and this other antenna works in conjunction with the single antenna within the coverage device.

[0081] Communication methods are used according to Figures 1 to 3 The coverage device enables bidirectional signal transmission through the coverage device.

[0082] List of reference numerals

[0083] 10. Drainage device

[0084] 11 Covering device

[0085] 12 radio units

[0086] 13. Opening of the covering device

[0087] 14 antennas

[0088] 14a First Antenna

[0089] 14b Second Antenna

[0090] 15 Antenna Carrier Housing

[0091] 15a Components on the housing

[0092] 15b Lower housing component

[0093] 16 Signal lines

[0094] 17. Protrusions of components on the housing

[0095] 18. Recessed portion of the lower housing component

[0096] 19. Intermediate base plate

[0097] L is the longitudinal direction of the radio unit.

[0098] R1 is used for the first direction of inserting the component on the housing.

[0099] R2 is used for the second direction of inserting the component under the housing.

Claims

1. A covering device (11), particularly for civil engineering, and even more particularly for a drainage device (10) for draining liquids, said covering device having a radio unit (12) capable of being inserted into or into an opening (13) of said covering device (11), and comprising the following: - At least one antenna carrier housing (14), and - At least one antenna (15) having at least one baseband, the antenna being disposed in the antenna carrier housing (14) and configured for receiving or transmitting radio signals, particularly at least one first and one second antenna (15a, 15b). The at least one antenna (15) has at least one resonant frequency in use due to its placement in the antenna carrier housing (14) and / or in the covering device (11), wherein the fundamental frequency of the antenna (15) is configured to be 0.3% to 30% greater than the resonant frequency.

2. The covering device (11) according to claim 1. Its features are, The basebands of the first and second antennas (15a, 15b) are designed for different frequency ranges.

3. The covering device (11) according to claim 1 or 2. Its features are, The resonant frequencies of the first and second antennas (15a, 15b) are designed for the same frequency range.

4. The covering device (11) according to any one of the preceding claims. Its features are, The resonant frequencies of the first and second antennas (15a, 15b) are designed for a frequency range between 800 MHz and 6500 MHz.

5. The covering device (11) according to any one of the preceding claims. Its features are, The first and second antennas (15a, 15b) are connected to each other via signal lines (16) for transmitting or receiving radio signals, particularly coaxial cables.

6. The covering device (11) according to any one of the preceding claims. Its features are, The first and / or second antennas (15a, 15b) comprise ceramic antennas.

7. The covering device (11) according to any one of the preceding claims. Its features are, The first and second antennas (15a, 15b) are substantially planar in shape, and / or the area ratio of the first antenna (15a) to the second antenna (15b) is between 1:2 and 1:

12.

8. The covering device (11) according to any one of the preceding claims. Its features are, The first and second antennas (15a, 15b) are configured such that they radiate in substantially opposite directions.

9. The covering device (11) according to any one of the preceding claims. Its features are, The first and second antennas (15a, 15b) are disposed separately in the longitudinal direction (L) of the radio unit (12), and are disposed in particular perpendicular to the longitudinal direction (L) and centered.

10. The covering device (11) according to any one of the preceding claims. Its features are, The first and second antennas (15a, 15b) are arranged separately along the longitudinal direction (L) of the radio unit (12) with an amount equal to the maximum thickness of the covering device (11).

11. The covering device (11) according to any one of the preceding claims. Its features are, The radio unit (12) can be inserted into the opening (13) of the covering device (11) such that the first antenna (15a) faces outward of the covering device (11) and the second antenna (15b) faces inward of the covering device (11).

12. The covering device (11) according to any one of the preceding claims. Its features are, The antenna carrier housing (14) includes at least: - A housing upper component (14a), in which the first antenna (15a) is disposed or can be disposed, and the housing upper component can be inserted from a first direction (R1) into an opening (13) of the covering device (11), such that the upper side of the housing upper component (14a) closes the opening (13); and - A housing lower component (14b), in which the second antenna (15b) is disposed or can be disposed, and the housing lower component can be inserted into the opening (13) of the covering device (11) from the second direction (R2), such that the lower side of the housing lower component (14b) closes the opening.

13. The covering device (11) according to any one of the preceding claims. Its features are, The antenna carrier housing (14), especially the upper housing component (14a) and / or the lower housing component (14b), is formed of polyurethane (PUR).

14. The covering device (11) according to any one of the preceding claims. Its features are, The upper housing component (14a) or the lower housing component (14b) are connected to each other and / or to the covering device (11) in a form-fitting and / or material-fitting and / or force-fitting manner during use.

15. The covering device (11) according to any one of the preceding claims. Its features are, The upper side of the upper component (14a) of the housing has grooves, which in particular make the upper side non-slip, preferably constructed according to DIN ENISO 124-1.

16. A method for communicating between a building and a communication facility disposed outside the building using a covering device (11) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the covering device (11) separates an external area of ​​the building from an internal area, the method comprising the steps of: - Receive radio signals from the external region using the first antenna (15a). - The radio signal is transmitted through the covering device (11), particularly via signal lines, from the first antenna (15a) to the second antenna (15b). - The radio signal is transmitted into the interior area using the second antenna (15b).

17. A method for communicating between a building and a communication facility disposed outside the building using a covering device (11) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the covering device (11) separates an external area of ​​the building from an internal area, the method comprising the steps of: - Receive radio signals from the internal area using the second antenna (15b). - The radio signal is transmitted through the covering device (11), particularly via signal lines, from the second antenna (15b) to the first antenna (15a). - The radio signal is transmitted to the external area using the first antenna (15a).

Images