Communication device

Abstract

To provide a communication apparatus capable of suppressing increase in the area of a housing as seen in front view.SOLUTION: A communication apparatus 100 comprises a circuit board 15, mounted components, a housing 1, and a support member 11. The mounted components are mounted on the circuit board 15. The housing 1 houses the circuit board 15, the mounted components, and a battery 12 that supplies electric power for driving the mounted components. The support member 11 is arranged inside the housing 1 and supports the battery 12 and the circuit board 15. The housing 1 includes: a case member 2 having an opening 2A; and a cover member 3 covering the opening 2A. The cover member 3 is attachable to and detachable from the case member 2. The battery 12 can be inserted into the inside of the case member 2 via the opening 2A. The support member 11 has a base part 111 having an arrangement surface 111a on which the battery 12 is arranged. The base part 111 supports the circuit board 15 on a back surface side opposite the arrangement surface 111a side. The base part 111 has a concave part 148 on the arrangement surface 111a.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 26

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a communication device.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a gas detection robot. The gas detection robot includes a casing that houses a substrate and a battery. A substrate notch is provided on the substrate at a position corresponding to the portion where the battery is installed, that is, a part of the substrate is cut out. That is, the gas detection robot is configured such that the substrate is not disposed at the portion where the battery is installed within the casing. Therefore, the thickness of the casing can be reduced compared to a configuration in which the battery is disposed on the substrate.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003] <on on

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, in the gas detection robot disclosed in Patent Document 1, since the substrate is provided with a notch and the battery is disposed in the notch, the area of the casing when viewed from the front increases compared to a configuration in which the substrate and the battery overlap.

[0005] The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and an object thereof is to provide a communication device capable of suppressing an increase in the area of the housing when viewed from the front.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] According to one aspect of the present invention, a communication device transmits information indicating the measurement results of a measuring device relating to resources or energy. The communication device comprises a circuit board, mounted components, a housing, and a support member. The mounted components are mounted on the circuit board. The housing houses the circuit board, the mounted components, and a battery that supplies power to drive the mounted components. The support member is disposed inside the housing and supports the battery and the circuit board. The housing has a case member having an opening and a cover member covering the opening. The cover member is detachably attached to the case member. The battery can be inserted into the case member through the opening. The support member has a base portion having an arrangement surface on which the battery is placed. The base portion supports the circuit board on its rear side opposite to the arrangement surface. The base portion has a recess on the arrangement surface. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to the communication device of the present invention, it is possible to suppress an increase in the area of ​​the housing when viewed from the front. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] This is a front view showing a communication device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] This is a side view showing the case and cover components. [Figure 3] This is a front view showing the case and cover components. [Figure 4] This is a side view showing a communication device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5] This is a perspective view showing a communication device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] This is a front view showing a communication device mounted on a horizontal pipe. [Figure 7] This is a side view showing a communication device attached to a horizontal pipe. [Figure 8] This is a front view showing a communication device mounted on a vertical pipe. [Figure 9]It is a side view showing a communication device attached to a vertical pipe. [Figure 10] It is a bottom view showing a communication device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 11] It is a front view showing a communication device with a cover member removed. [Figure 12] It is a perspective view showing the internal configuration of a communication device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 13] It is a front view showing an enlarged part of a communication device with a cover member removed. [Figure 14] It is a top view showing a bush mounting part. [Figure 15] It is a front view showing a bush member. [Figure 16] It is a perspective view showing a bush member. [Figure 17] It is another perspective view showing a bush member. [Figure 18] It is a cross-sectional view of a bush member. [Figure 19] It is a cross-sectional view showing an enlarged part of a communication device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 20] It is yet another perspective view showing a bush member. [Figure 21] It is a rear view showing a cover member and a bush member. [Figure 22] It is a perspective view showing a cover member. [Figure 23] It is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view showing a cover member and a bush member. [Figure 24] It is a cross-sectional view showing a housing and a bush member. [Figure 25] It is a front view showing a communication device with a cover member removed. [Figure 26] It is a cross-sectional view showing a communication device when inserting a battery into the inside of a case member. [Figure 27] It is a cross-sectional view showing a communication device immediately after housing a battery in a battery housing part.

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0009] Embodiments of the communication device of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings (Figures 1 to 27). However, the present invention is not limited to the following embodiments and can be implemented in various forms without departing from its essence. In addition, explanations may be omitted where necessary to avoid repetition. Furthermore, in the figures, the same or corresponding parts are denoted by the same reference numerals and their descriptions are not repeated.

[0010] In this specification, for ease of understanding, the terms upper, lower, front, rear (or back), right, and left are defined. In this embodiment, the side of the housing 1 (see Figure 1) on which the first projection 4 (see Figure 1) is provided is the "upper side," and the side of the housing 1 (see Figure 1) on which the second projection 5 (see Figure 1) is provided is the "lower side." Alternatively, the side of the housing 1 (see Figure 1) on which the cover member 3 (see Figure 1) is provided is the "lower side," and the opposite side is the "upper side." Also, the side of the housing 1 (see Figure 1) on which the cover member 3 (see Figure 1) is provided is the "front side," and the opposite side is the "rear side." Furthermore, the right side when looking from the rear to the front is the "right side," and the opposite side is the "left side." However, the terms "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "right," and "left" are defined merely for the sake of explanation, and there is no intention to limit the orientation of the communication device of the present invention during use or assembly based on these definitions.

[0011] First, the communication device 100 of this embodiment will be described with reference to Figure 1. Figure 1 is a front view showing the communication device 100 of this embodiment. The communication device 100 transmits information indicating the measurement results of a measuring device related to resources or energy. More specifically, the communication device 100 transmits the information indicating the measurement results via wireless communication. For example, the communication device 100 transmits the information indicating the measurement results to a center that collects the measurement results.

[0012] Resources or energy are, for example, gas, electricity, or water. Measuring devices are, for example, gas meters, electricity meters, or water meters. A gas meter measures the amount of gas used. An electricity meter measures the amount of electricity used. A water meter measures the amount of water used.

[0013] The communication device 100 receives a signal indicating the measurement result from the measuring device and acquires information indicating the measurement result. For example, the communication device 100 is wired to the measuring device and receives a signal indicating the measurement result from the measuring device. Specifically, the communication device 100 may be electrically connected to the measuring device via a cable member CA (see Figure 13).

[0014] As shown in Figure 1, the communication device 100 includes a housing 1. The housing 1 is box-shaped and seals the internal space. In this embodiment, the housing 1 has a case member 2 and a cover member 3. The cover member 3 is detachably attached to the case member 2. By attaching the cover member 3 to the case member 2, the internal space of the housing 1 is sealed.

[0015] Next, the case member 2 and cover member 3 will be described with reference to Figures 2 and 3. Figure 2 is a side view showing the case member 2 and cover member 3. Figure 3 is a front view showing the case member 2 and cover member 3. More specifically, Figures 2 and 3 show the housing 1 with the cover member 3 removed from the case member 2.

[0016] As shown in Figure 2, the case member 2 has a front wall portion 21, an upper wall portion 22, and a rear wall portion 23. The front wall portion 21 faces the upper portion of the rear wall portion 23 in the front-rear direction. In the case member 2, the front of the lower portion of the rear wall portion 23 is open. Therefore, the case member 2 has an opening 2A in the lower front portion. The front wall portion 21 of the case member 2 constitutes the front wall of the upper portion of the housing 1. The upper wall portion 22 of the case member 2 constitutes the upper wall of the housing 1. The rear wall portion 23 of the case member 2 constitutes the rear wall of the housing 1.

[0017] As shown in Figure 2, the cover member 3 has a front wall portion 31 and a lower wall portion 32. The front wall portion 31 of the cover member 3 constitutes the front wall of the lower part of the housing 1. The lower wall portion 32 of the cover member 3 constitutes the lower wall of the housing 1. The rear side of the cover member 3 is open. When the cover member 3 is attached to the case member 2, the opening 2A of the case member 2 is covered by the cover member 3, and the front wall portion 31 of the cover member 3 faces the lower part of the rear wall portion 23 of the case member 2.

[0018] As shown in Figure 3, the case member 2 has a right wall portion 24 and a left wall portion 25. The cover member 3 has a right wall portion 33 and a left wall portion 34. The right wall portion 24 of the case member 2 constitutes the right wall of the upper part of the housing 1. The left wall portion 25 of the case member 2 constitutes the left wall of the upper part of the housing 1. The right wall portion 33 of the cover member 3 constitutes the right wall of the lower part of the housing 1. The left wall portion 34 of the cover member 3 constitutes the left wall of the lower part of the housing 1.

[0019] Next, the communication device 100 of this embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 1, 2, and 3. As shown in Figures 1, 2, and 3, the housing 1 has a first protrusion 4 and a second protrusion 5. The first protrusion 4 protrudes upward from the upper surface of the housing 1. The second protrusion 5 protrudes downward from the lower surface of the housing 1. Specifically, as shown in Figures 2 and 3, the first protrusion 4 and the second protrusion 5 are provided on the case member 2. More specifically, the first protrusion 4 protrudes upward from the upper end of the rear wall portion 23 of the case member 2. The second protrusion 5 protrudes downward from the lower end of the rear wall portion 23 of the case member 2.

[0020] Next, with reference to Figure 1, the communication device 100 of this embodiment will be further described. As shown in Figure 1, the housing 1 has a first through hole 6a, a second through hole 6b, a third through hole 7a, a fourth through hole 7b, a fifth through hole 7c, a sixth through hole 7d, a seventh through hole 8a, and an eighth through hole 8b.

[0021] The first through-hole 6a and the second through-hole 6b penetrate the housing 1 in the front-to-back direction. Specifically, the first through-hole 6a and the second through-hole 6b are provided in the upper wall portion 22 (see Figure 2) of the case member 2 and penetrate the upper wall portion 22 (see Figure 2) of the case member 2 in the front-to-back direction. The first through-hole 6a and the second through-hole 6b are arranged side by side in the left-to-right direction.

[0022] The third insertion hole 7a and the fourth insertion hole 7b are provided in the first projection 4 and penetrate the first projection 4 in the front-rear direction. The third insertion hole 7a and the fourth insertion hole 7b are arranged side by side in the left-right direction.

[0023] The fifth insertion hole 7c and the sixth insertion hole 7d are provided in the second projection 5 and penetrate the second projection 5 in the front-rear direction. The fifth insertion hole 7c and the sixth insertion hole 7d are arranged side by side in the left-right direction.

[0024] The seventh through hole 8a is provided in the first protrusion 4 and penetrates the first protrusion 4 in the front-rear direction. The seventh through hole 8a is located between the third through hole 7a and the fourth through hole 7b.

[0025] The eighth through hole 8b is provided in the second protrusion 5 and penetrates the second protrusion 5 in the front-rear direction. The eighth through hole 8b is located between the fifth through hole 7c and the sixth through hole 7d.

[0026] Next, the communication device 100 of this embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 4 and 5. Figure 4 is a side view showing the communication device 100 of this embodiment. Figure 5 is a perspective view showing the communication device 100 of this embodiment.

[0027] As shown in Figure 4, the first protrusion 4 has a front surface 4a and a rear surface 4b. The rear wall portion 23 of the case member 2 has a rear surface 23b. The second protrusion 5 has a rear surface 5b. The rear surface 4b of the first protrusion 4, the rear surface 23b of the rear wall portion 23, and the rear surface 5b of the second protrusion 5 constitute the rear surface (back) of the housing 1.

[0028] As shown in Figure 5, the upper wall portion 22 of the case member 2 has an upper surface 22a. The upper surface 22a is located in front of the front surface 4a of the first protrusion 4. The upper surface 22a of the upper wall portion 22 constitutes the upper surface of the housing 1.

[0029] Next, the communication device 100 of this embodiment will be described with reference to Figure 6. Figure 6 is a front view showing the communication device 100 attached to the horizontal pipe P1. As shown in Figure 6, the housing 1 can be placed on the horizontal pipe P1. The horizontal pipe P1 is a pipe that extends along the horizontal direction. In this embodiment, the horizontal pipe P1 extends along the left-right direction.

[0030] Horizontal piping P1 is a pipe used to supply resources or energy. Horizontal piping P1 is, for example, a gas pipe, an electrical pipe, or a water pipe. Gas pipes circulate gas. More specifically, gas flows inside gas pipes. Electrical pipes house electrical wires inside. Water pipes circulate tap water.

[0031] When housing 1 is placed on horizontal piping P1, the first binding member BA1 and the second binding member BA2 are inserted through the first insertion hole 6a and the second insertion hole 6b, respectively, and the horizontal piping P1 is bound to housing 1 by the first binding member BA1 and the second binding member BA2. The first binding member BA1 and the second binding member BA2 are, for example, cable ties such as Insulok.

[0032] When the housing 1 is positioned on the horizontal pipe P1, the front surface 4a of the first protrusion 4, as described with reference to Figures 4 and 5, abuts against the rear portion of the horizontal pipe P1. Also, the upper surface of the housing 1 (upper surface 22a of the upper wall portion 22), as described with reference to Figure 5, abuts against the lower portion of the horizontal pipe P1 in front of the first protrusion 4. In other words, the front surface 4a of the first protrusion 4 includes a contact portion that abuts against the rear portion of the horizontal pipe P1, and the upper surface of the housing 1 includes a contact portion that abuts against the lower portion of the horizontal pipe P1.

[0033] As explained above with reference to Figures 1 to 6, according to this embodiment, the horizontal pipe P1 can be placed on the upper surface of the housing 1. Therefore, compared to a configuration in which the horizontal pipe P1 is placed on the rear surface of the housing 1, when the housing 1 (communication device 100) is mounted on the horizontal pipe P1 in a position aligned with the vertical direction, the center of gravity G of the communication device 100 does not deviate significantly from vertically below the center C of the horizontal pipe P1. This prevents the housing 1 (communication device 100) from being installed at an angle relative to the vertical direction. Therefore, compared to a configuration in which the horizontal pipe P1 is placed on the rear surface of the housing 1, it is easier to maintain the waterproof function.

[0034] Next, the communication device 100 of this embodiment will be described with reference to Figure 7. Figure 7 is a side view showing the communication device 100 attached to the horizontal pipe P1. As shown in Figure 7, in the communication device 100 of this embodiment, the front surface 4a of the first protrusion 4 and the upper surface 22a of the housing 1 (upper surface 22a of the upper wall portion 22) have a structure that allows the center of gravity G of the communication device 100 and the center C of the horizontal pipe P1 to be aligned on a straight line L along the vertical direction when the housing 1 is positioned on the horizontal pipe P1. Here, the vertical direction is a direction substantially parallel to the vertical direction.

[0035] As explained with reference to Figure 7, in this embodiment, when the housing 1 (communication device 100) is mounted on the horizontal pipe P1 in a position aligned with the vertical direction, the center of gravity G of the communication device 100 is located vertically below the center C of the horizontal pipe P1. Therefore, the housing 1 (communication device 100) is less likely to be installed at an angle to the vertical direction. Consequently, the waterproof function is more easily maintained.

[0036] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the distance r from the center C of the horizontal pipe P1 to the lower wall of the housing 1 (the lower wall portion 32 described with reference to Figure 2) can be shortened compared to the configuration in which the horizontal pipe P1 is placed on the upper surface of the first protrusion 4. Therefore, even if a torque is generated that rotates the housing 1 (communication device 100) around the horizontal pipe P1 as the central axis, the torque will be smaller compared to the configuration in which the horizontal pipe P1 is placed on the upper surface of the first protrusion 4. Thus, even if a torque is generated that rotates the housing 1 (communication device 100) around the horizontal pipe P1 as the central axis, the housing 1 (communication device 100) is less likely to tilt with respect to the vertical direction. Note that the torque that rotates the housing 1 (communication device 100) around the horizontal pipe P1 as the central axis may be generated, for example, by strong winds such as typhoons.

[0037] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the height of the first protrusion 4 can be reduced compared to a configuration in which the horizontal pipe P1 is placed on the upper surface of the first protrusion 4. Specifically, in a configuration in which the horizontal pipe P1 is placed on the upper surface of the first protrusion 4, a structure to support the horizontal pipe P1 is required above the third insertion hole 7a, the fourth insertion hole 7b, and the seventh insertion hole 8a. In contrast, according to this embodiment, since the horizontal pipe P1 is placed on the upper surface of the housing 1 (upper surface 22a of the upper wall portion 22), there is no need to provide a structure to support the horizontal pipe P1 above the third insertion hole 7a, the fourth insertion hole 7b, and the seventh insertion hole 8a. Therefore, the height of the first protrusion 4 can be reduced compared to a configuration in which the horizontal pipe P1 is placed on the upper surface of the first protrusion 4. As a result, the housing 1 (communication device 100) can be miniaturized.

[0038] Next, the communication device 100 of this embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 8 and 9. Figure 8 is a front view showing the communication device 100 attached to the vertical pipe P2. Figure 9 is a side view showing the communication device 100 attached to the vertical pipe P2. As shown in Figures 8 and 9, the housing 1 can be placed on the vertical pipe P2. The vertical pipe P2 is a pipe that extends along the vertical direction. In this embodiment, the vertical pipe P2 extends along the vertical direction.

[0039] Vertical piping P2, like horizontal piping P1 as described with reference to Figure 6, is a pipe for supplying resources or energy. Vertical piping P2 is, for example, a gas pipe, an electrical pipe, or a water pipe.

[0040] When housing 1 is positioned on vertical piping P2, the third binding member BA3 is inserted through the third insertion hole 7a (Figure 1) and the fourth insertion hole 7b (Figure 1), and the vertical piping P2 is bound to the first protrusion 4 by the third binding member BA3. Similarly, the fourth binding member BA4 is inserted through the fifth insertion hole 7c (Figure 1) and the sixth insertion hole 7d (Figure 1), and the vertical piping P2 is bound to the second protrusion 5 by the fourth binding member BA4. The third binding member BA3 and the fourth binding member BA4 are, for example, cable ties such as Insulok.

[0041] When the housing 1 is placed on the vertical pipe P2, the rear surface 4b of the first protrusion 4, the rear surface 23b of the rear wall portion 23, and the rear surface 5b of the second protrusion 5, as described with reference to Figure 4, abut against the front portion of the vertical pipe P2. In other words, the rear surface 4b of the first protrusion 4, the rear surface 23b of the rear wall portion 23, and the rear surface 5b of the second protrusion 5 include contact portions that abut against the front portion of the vertical pipe P2.

[0042] According to this embodiment, the upper surface 22a (upper surface of the housing 1) of the upper wall portion 22 is open so that the horizontal pipe P1 can be positioned in front of the front surface 4a of the first protrusion portion 4. Therefore, the work of fastening the third fastening member BA3 becomes easier.

[0043] The seventh and eighth insertion holes 8a and 8b, as explained with reference to Figure 1, are used when mounting the housing 1 (communication device 100) to a wall. Specifically, fastening members such as screws are inserted through the seventh and eighth insertion holes 8b, respectively, to mount the housing 1 (communication device 100) to the wall.

[0044] Next, the communication device 100 of this embodiment will be described with reference to Figure 10. Figure 10 is a bottom view showing the communication device 100 of this embodiment. As shown in Figure 10, the communication device 100 further comprises a bushing member 9. The bushing member 9 is arranged in the housing 1. In this embodiment, the bushing member 9 is arranged on the lower surface of the housing 1. Specifically, the bushing member 9 is arranged on the lower wall portion 32 of the cover member 3. More specifically, the lower wall portion 32 of the cover member 3 has a fitting hole 3A. The fitting hole 3A penetrates the lower wall portion 32 of the cover member 3. In this embodiment, the fitting hole 3A is a notch extending forward from the rear end of the lower wall portion 32 (see Figure 21). The bushing member 9 is arranged in the housing 1 such that a part of the bushing member 9 fits into the fitting hole 3A.

[0045] As shown in Figure 10, the bushing member 9 has two insertion portions 9A and 9B. Cable members CA, which will be explained with reference to Figure 13, are inserted through the two insertion portions 9A and 9B, respectively. The insertion portions 9A and 9B will be described later with reference to Figure 13.

[0046] Next, the communication device 100 of this embodiment will be described with reference to Figure 11. Figure 11 is a front view showing the communication device 100 with the cover member 3 removed. As shown in Figure 11, the communication device 100 further comprises a terminal block 10 and a support member 11. The housing 1 houses the terminal block 10 and the support member 11. In other words, the terminal block 10 and the support member 11 are arranged inside the housing 1. The support member 11 supports the bushing member 9. The terminal block 10 is mounted on a circuit board 15, which will be described with reference to Figure 12, and the support member 11 has a through hole through which the terminal block 10 passes. The terminal block 10 is an example of a mounted component.

[0047] As shown in Figure 11, the housing 1 further houses the battery 12. Figure 11 illustrates a first-size battery 12A as the battery 12. The support member 11 supports the battery 12. The battery 12 is detachably attached to the housing 1.

[0048] Next, the support member 11 will be described with reference to Figure 11. As shown in Figure 11, the communication device 100 of this embodiment includes a bushing mounting portion 13. A bushing member 9 is attached to the bushing mounting portion 13. The bushing mounting portion 13 is provided inside the housing 1. Specifically, the bushing mounting portion 13 is part of the support member 11. More specifically, the support member 11 has a base portion 111. The base portion 111 is, for example, plate-shaped. In this embodiment, the base portion 111 expands along the vertical and horizontal directions. The bushing mounting portion 13 is connected to the lower end of the base portion 111 and protrudes downward from the lower end of the base portion 111. A through hole is formed in the base portion 111 through which the terminal block 10 passes.

[0049] As shown in Figure 11, the support member 11 further includes a first claw portion 146 and a second claw portion 147. The first claw portion 146 and the second claw portion 147 are connected to the front surface of the base portion 111 and protrude forward from the base portion 111. The first claw portion 146 is located below the battery 12 and supports the battery 12 from above. According to this embodiment, the battery 12 can be supported from above by the first claw portion 146. Therefore, a separate member such as a battery cover is not required. Thus, the number of parts in the communication device 100 can be reduced. The second claw portion 147 will be described later with reference to Figure 12.

[0050] Next, the communication device 100 of this embodiment will be described with reference to Figure 12. Figure 12 is a perspective view showing the internal configuration of the communication device 100 of this embodiment. As shown in Figure 12, the support member 11 has a first side wall portion 141, an upper wall portion 142, a second side wall portion 143, and an inner wall portion 144. The base portion 111, the first side wall portion 141, the upper wall portion 142, the second side wall portion 143, and the inner wall portion 144 constitute a battery housing portion 14 that houses the battery 12 described with reference to Figure 11.

[0051] The first side wall portion 141 constitutes the right wall of the battery housing portion 14. The first side wall portion 141 protrudes forward from the base portion 111. In this embodiment, the first side wall portion 141 is connected to the right end of the base portion 111 and protrudes forward from the right end of the base portion 111. The first side wall portion 141 extends downward from the right end of the upper wall portion 142. More specifically, the first side wall portion 141 extends at least to a position facing the first claw portion 146 in the left-right direction.

[0052] The upper wall portion 142 constitutes the upper wall of the battery housing portion 14. The upper wall portion 142 protrudes forward from the base portion 111. In this embodiment, the upper wall portion 142 is connected to the upper end of the base portion 111 and protrudes forward from the upper end of the base portion 111. The upper wall portion 142 extends in the left-right direction. In this embodiment, the upper wall portion 142 extends along the upper end of the base portion 111 from the right end to the left end of the base portion 111.

[0053] The second side wall portion 143 faces the first side wall portion 141 and constitutes the left wall of the battery housing portion 14. The second side wall portion 143 protrudes forward from the base portion 111. In this embodiment, the second side wall portion 143 is connected to the left end of the base portion 111 and protrudes forward from the left end of the base portion 111. The second side wall portion 143 extends downward from the left end of the upper wall portion 142. Specifically, the second side wall portion 143 extends at least to a position facing the first claw portion 146 in the left-right direction. In this embodiment, the second side wall portion 143 extends to the lower end of the base portion 111.

[0054] The inner wall portion 144 faces the upper wall portion 142 and constitutes the lower wall of the battery housing portion 14. The inner wall portion 144 protrudes forward from the base portion 111. The inner wall portion 144 connects to the second side wall portion 143 and extends to the right from the second side wall portion 143. The inner wall portion 144 is positioned alongside the first claw portion 146 in the left-right direction. The right end of the inner wall portion 144 faces the first claw portion 146 and forms a gap between it and the first claw portion 146. The first claw portion 146 is positioned between the inner wall portion 144 and the first side wall portion 141. The first claw portion 146 forms a gap between it and the first side wall portion 141.

[0055] Of the base portion 111, the portion enclosed by the first side wall portion 141, the upper wall portion 142, the second side wall portion 143, the inner wall portion 144, and the first claw portion 146 constitutes the bottom wall of the battery housing portion 14. Specifically, of the front surface of the base portion 111, the portion enclosed by the first side wall portion 141, the upper wall portion 142, the second side wall portion 143, the inner wall portion 144, and the first claw portion 146 constitutes the arrangement surface 111a where the battery 12, as described with reference to Figure 11, is placed.

[0056] The second claw portion 147 faces the first side wall portion 141. More specifically, the second claw portion 147 is positioned between the first side wall portion 141 and the second side wall portion 143. The second claw portion 147, together with the first side wall portion 141, clamps the battery 12A shown in Figure 11. Therefore, the second claw portion 147 can suppress rattling of the battery 12A in the lateral direction.

[0057] Next, the support member 11 will be further described with reference to Figure 12. As shown in Figure 12, the communication device 100 further comprises a circuit board 15. The circuit board 15 is housed inside the housing 1. The base portion 111 supports the circuit board 15 on its rear side. Wiring is formed on the circuit board 15. The circuit board 15 is, for example, a printed circuit board.

[0058] A terminal block 10 is mounted on the circuit board 15. The communication device 100 further comprises a wireless communication unit, a processing unit, a storage unit, and a power supply unit. The wireless communication unit, processing unit, storage unit, and power supply unit are mounted on the circuit board 15 and housed inside the enclosure 1. The wireless communication unit, processing unit, storage unit, and power supply unit are examples of mounted components. For example, the terminal block 10, wireless communication unit, processing unit, storage unit, and power supply unit are mounted on the front of the circuit board 15. The circuit board 15 may be a double-sided board. In this case, the terminal block 10 is mounted on the front of the circuit board 15. At least one of the wireless communication unit, processing unit, storage unit, and power supply unit is mounted on the rear of the circuit board 15, and the rest are mounted on the front of the circuit board 15. Alternatively, all of the wireless communication unit, processing unit, storage unit, and power supply unit may be mounted on the rear of the circuit board 15.

[0059] The battery 12, as described with reference to Figure 11, supplies power to drive the wireless communication unit, processing unit, memory unit, and power supply unit. More specifically, power is supplied from the battery 12 to the power supply unit. The power supply unit generates drive power to operate the wireless communication unit, processing unit, memory unit, and power supply unit based on the power supplied from the battery 12. The power supply unit includes, for example, a DC-DC converter.

[0060] The wireless communication unit is connected to a wireless communication network and performs wireless communication via the wireless communication network. The wireless communication unit includes, for example, a wireless communication module that conforms to the communication protocol of the wireless communication network. The wireless communication network is a wide-area wireless network such as a PHS (Personal Handy-phone System) network, a FOMA (Freedom of Mobile Multimedia Access) network, an LTE (Long Term Evolution) network, a 4G (fourth-generation mobile communication system) network, or a 5G (fifth-generation mobile communication system) network.

[0061] The processing unit controls the operation of each part of the communication device 100. The processing unit includes a processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or an MPU (Micro Controller Unit).

[0062] The memory unit includes a main memory, such as semiconductor memory, and an auxiliary memory, such as semiconductor memory. For example, the semiconductor memory includes RAM (Random Access Memory) and ROM (Read Only Memory). Alternatively, the semiconductor memory may include, in place of or in addition to RAM and ROM, at least one of flash memory, EPROM (Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory), and EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory).

[0063] The memory unit stores measurement results obtained from the measuring device described with reference to Figure 1. The memory unit also stores computer programs. The processing unit controls each part of the communication device 100 by executing the computer programs stored in the memory unit.

[0064] Next, the bushing member 9 and the bushing mounting portion 13 will be described with reference to Figures 12 and 13. As shown in Figure 12, the bushing mounting portion 13 is located below the terminal block 10. The bushing member 9 is fitted into the bushing mounting portion 13 from the front.

[0065] Figure 13 is a magnified front view showing a part of the communication device 100 with the cover member 3 removed. As shown in Figure 13, the cable member CA passes through the bush member 9. By the cable member CA passing through the bush member 9, one end of the cable member CA is introduced into the interior of the housing 1. The cable member CA is, for example, an electric wire.

[0066] Specifically, the bushing member 9 is made of rubber or synthetic resin. The insertion portions 9A and 9B are membrane-like, and the cable member CA can be inserted into the insertion portions 9A and 9B by, for example, making a cross-shaped cut on the underside of the insertion portions 9A and 9B using a flathead screwdriver or utility knife.

[0067] According to this embodiment, the cable member CA is gripped by the elasticity of the bushing member 9. As a result, no gap is created between the bushing member 9 and the cable member CA, preventing insects from entering the interior of the housing 1 from between the bushing member 9 and the cable member CA.

[0068] One end of the cable member CA, which is introduced into the housing 1, is connected to the terminal block 10. Specifically, the terminal block 10 has a connection part 10a, and one end of the cable member CA is connected to the connection part 10a of the terminal block 10. More specifically, the cable member CA has a conductor CW and a covering member that covers the conductor CW. At one end of the cable member CA, the covering member is stripped off, and the conductor CW is exposed. The exposed conductor CW is connected to the connection part 10a of the terminal block 10.

[0069] The other end of cable member CA is connected to the measuring device described with reference to Figure 1. Cable member CA transmits a signal indicating the measurement result of the measuring device to terminal block 10. The signal indicating the measurement result is transmitted from terminal block 10 to the processing unit mounted on the circuit board 15, which was described with reference to Figure 12.

[0070] Although Figure 13 illustrates a configuration in which two cable members CA are connected to the terminal block 10, only one cable member CA may be connected to the terminal block 10.

[0071] The bushing member 9 has a shape that allows it to be attached to the bushing mounting portion 13 only when it is in a specific orientation relative to the bushing mounting portion 13. Therefore, since the bushing member 9 cannot be attached to the bushing mounting portion 13 in an orientation other than the specific orientation, it is possible to prevent an operator from mistakenly attaching the bushing member 9 to the bushing mounting portion 13 in an orientation other than the specific orientation, thereby preventing a gap from forming between the bushing member 9 and the housing 1. As a result, it is possible to prevent insects from entering the inside of the housing 1 through the gap created between the bushing member 9 and the housing 1. Thus, according to this embodiment, it becomes more difficult for insects to enter the inside of the housing 1. Hereinafter, the specific orientation may be referred to as the "normal orientation".

[0072] Next, the bush mounting portion 13 will be described with reference to Figure 14. Figure 14 is a top view showing the bush mounting portion 13. As shown in Figure 14, the bush mounting portion 13 has a first fitting portion 131, a second fitting portion 132, a third fitting portion 133, a first connecting portion 134, and a second connecting portion 135. Figure 14 shows a cross-section of a part of the first connecting portion 134 and a cross-section of a part of the second connecting portion 135.

[0073] The first fitting portion 131 and the second fitting portion 132 are plate-shaped and extend in the front-rear direction. The first fitting portion 131 and the second fitting portion 132 face each other in the left-right direction. The third fitting portion 133 is plate-shaped and extends in the left-right direction. The left end of the third fitting portion 133 is connected to the first fitting portion 131. The right end of the third fitting portion 133 is connected to the second fitting portion 132. In this embodiment, the left end of the third fitting portion 133 is connected to the rear end of the first fitting portion 131. Similarly, the right end of the third fitting portion 133 is connected to the rear end of the second fitting portion 132.

[0074] The bush mounting portion 13 has a first corner portion 136a at the connection point between the first fitting portion 131 and the third fitting portion 133. Specifically, the first corner portion 136a is the inner circumferential surface of the connection point between the first fitting portion 131 and the third fitting portion 133. The first corner portion 136a has a specific shape. In this embodiment, the first corner portion 136a has a circular arc shape in plan view. More specifically, the first corner portion 136a has a circular arc shape with a specific radius of curvature.

[0075] The bush mounting portion 13 has a second corner portion 136b at the connection point between the second fitting portion 132 and the third fitting portion 133. Specifically, the first corner portion 136a is the inner circumferential surface of the connection point between the second fitting portion 132 and the third fitting portion 133. The second corner portion 136b has a specific shape. In this embodiment, the second corner portion 136b has a circular arc shape in plan view. More specifically, the second corner portion 136b has a circular arc shape with a specific radius of curvature.

[0076] The shapes of the first corner 136a and the second corner 136b may be different. For example, the radii of curvature of the first corner 136a and the second corner 136b may be different.

[0077] The first connecting portion 134 connects to the first fitting portion 131 and extends upward from the first fitting portion 131. The second connecting portion 135 connects to the second fitting portion 132 and extends upward from the second fitting portion 132. The tips (upper ends) of the first connecting portion 134 and the second fitting portion 132 are connected to the base portion 111, which is described with reference to Figures 11 and 12.

[0078] As shown in Figure 14, the first fitting portion 131 has a width W1. The width W1 is the width in the left-right direction. Specifically, the width W1 of the first fitting portion 131 represents the distance or length from the first connecting portion 134 to the right end of the first fitting portion 131.

[0079] Next, the bush member 9 will be described with reference to Figures 15 to 18. Figure 15 is a front view showing the bush member 9. Figure 16 is a perspective view showing the bush member 9. Figure 17 is another perspective view showing the bush member 9.

[0080] As shown in Figure 15, the bush member 9 includes an upper part 9U (first layer) and a lower part 9L (second layer). The lower part 9L is connected to the lower surface of the upper part 9U. Specifically, the bush member 9 has a bush body portion 91, a first protruding portion 92, a second protruding portion 93, a third protruding portion 94, and a fourth protruding portion 95. The bush body portion 91 also has a projection portion 91a. The projection portion 91a is the part of the bush body portion 91 that protrudes below the second protruding portion 93 and the fourth protruding portion 95. The upper part 9U of the bush member 9 includes the part of the bush body portion 91 above the projection portion 91a and the first to fourth protruding portions 92 to 95. The lower part 9L of the bush member 9 includes a projection portion 9a, a receiving portion 9A, and a receiving portion 9B. The insertion portion 9A and the insertion portion 9B protrude downward from the lower surface of the protruding portion 9a.

[0081] The cable member CA, described with reference to Figure 13, penetrates the bush body 91. As shown in Figure 15, the first protrusion 92 and the second protrusion 93 protrude to the left from the bush body 91. The second protrusion 93 is located below the first protrusion 92, and the first protrusion 92 and the second protrusion 93 face each other in the vertical direction. As shown in Figures 16 and 17, the first protrusion 92 and the second protrusion 93 extend in the front-rear direction. The first fitting portion 131 of the bush mounting portion 13, described with reference to Figure 14, fits between the first protrusion 92 and the second protrusion 93.

[0082] The first protruding portion 92 has a width W2. The second protruding portion 93 has a width W3. The width W2 indicates the amount by which the first protruding portion 92 protrudes from the bush body portion 91. In other words, the width W2 indicates the length or distance from the bush body portion 91 to the left end of the first protruding portion 92. Similarly, the width W3 indicates the amount by which the second protruding portion 93 protrudes from the bush body portion 91. In other words, the width W3 indicates the length or distance from the bush body portion 91 to the left end of the second protruding portion 93.

[0083] The width W2 of the first protruding portion 92 is narrower than the width W3 of the second protruding portion 93. Also, the width W1 of the first fitting portion 131, as explained with reference to Figure 14, is narrower than the width W3 of the second protruding portion 93. Therefore, it is not possible to reverse the front and back sides of the bushing member 9 and attach the bushing member 9 to the bushing mounting portion 13. Thus, it is possible to prevent a gap from forming between the bushing member 9 and the housing 1.

[0084] In this embodiment, the normal position is one in which the first protruding portion 92 is positioned above the second protruding portion 93. Therefore, if the bushing member 9 is positioned so that the second protruding portion 93 is positioned above the first protruding portion 92, the bushing member 9 cannot be attached to the bushing mounting portion 13.

[0085] As shown in Figure 15, the third protrusion 94 extends to the right from the bush body 91. The fourth protrusion 95 is located below the third protrusion 94 and extends to the right from the bush body 91. The third protrusion 94 and the fourth protrusion 95 face each other in the vertical direction. As shown in Figures 16 and 17, the third protrusion 94 and the fourth protrusion 95 extend in the front-rear direction. The second fitting portion 132 of the bush mounting portion 13, described with reference to Figure 14, fits between the third protrusion 94 and the fourth protrusion 95.

[0086] A portion of the bush body 91 fits into the fitting hole 3A of the cover member 3, as described with reference to Figure 10. Specifically, the protruding portion 91a of the bush body 91 fits into the fitting hole 3A of the cover member 3.

[0087] As shown in Figures 16 and 17, the bush member 9 further has a fifth protrusion 96 and a sixth protrusion 97. The fifth protrusion 96 and the sixth protrusion 97 are included in the upper part 9U of the bush member 9. The fifth protrusion 96 and the sixth protrusion 97 protrude rearward from the bush body 91. The fifth protrusion 96 and the sixth protrusion 97 also extend in the left-right direction. The left end of the fifth protrusion 96 is connected to the rear end of the first protrusion 92, and the right end of the fifth protrusion 96 is connected to the rear end of the third protrusion 94. The left end of the sixth protrusion 97 is connected to the rear end of the second protrusion 93, and the right end of the sixth protrusion 97 is connected to the rear end of the fourth protrusion 95. The third fitting portion 133 of the bush mounting portion 13, which was described with reference to Figure 14, fits between the fifth protrusion 96 and the sixth protrusion 97.

[0088] As shown in Figures 15 to 17, the bush member 9 has a first notch 98 and a second notch 99. The first notch 98 and the second notch 99 are formed on the surface of the bush member 9. In this embodiment, the first notch 98 and the second notch 99 are formed on the upper part 9U of the bush member 9, and the upper surfaces of the first notch 98 and the second notch 99 are open. More specifically, the first notch 98 and the second notch 99 are formed on the upper part of the bush body 91 and extend rearward from the front end of the bush body 91.

[0089] Next, the bush member 9 will be described with reference to Figure 18. Figure 18 is a cross-sectional view of the bush member 9. As shown in Figure 18, the bush member 9 further has a first hole 9C and a second hole 9D. The bush body 91 further has a first corner R1 to a fourth corner R4.

[0090] The upper surface of the first hole 9C is open. The first hole 9C extends downward from the upper surface of the bush member 9. More specifically, the first hole 9C extends downward from the upper surface of the bush body 91. The lower surface of the first hole 9C is covered by the insertion portion 9A. Therefore, the cable member CA, inserted through the insertion portion 9A, penetrates the first hole 9C. Similarly, the upper surface of the second hole 9D is open. The second hole 9D extends downward from the upper surface of the bush member 9. More specifically, the second hole 9D extends downward from the upper surface of the bush body 91. The lower surface of the second hole 9D is covered by the insertion portion 9B. Therefore, the cable member CA, inserted through the insertion portion 9B, penetrates the second hole 9D.

[0091] The first notch 98, as described with reference to Figures 15 to 17, communicates with the first hole 9C. Similarly, the second notch 99, as described with reference to Figures 15 to 17, communicates with the second hole 9D.

[0092] The first corner R1 of the bush body 91 has a shape that follows the first corner 136a of the bush mounting portion 13, as described with reference to Figure 14. The second corner R2 of the bush body 91 has a shape that follows the second corner 136b of the bush mounting portion 13, as described with reference to Figure 14. On the other hand, the third corner R3 of the bush body 91 has a different shape from the first corner R1 and the second corner R2 of the bush body 91. In other words, the third corner R3 of the bush body 91 has a different shape from the first corner 136a and the second corner 136b of the bush mounting portion 13, as described with reference to Figure 14. Similarly, the fourth corner R4 of the bush body 91 has a different shape from the first corner R1 and the second corner R2 of the bush body 91. In other words, the fourth corner R4 of the bush body 91 has a different shape from the first corner 136a and the second corner 136b of the bush mounting portion 13, as described with reference to Figure 14. Specifically, the first corner R1 and the second corner R2 of the bush body 91 have an arc shape in plan view. On the other hand, the third corner R3 and the fourth corner R4 of the bush body 91 have a right-angle shape in plan view.

[0093] According to this embodiment, when attaching the bush member 9 to the bush mounting portion 13, the first corner R1 and second corner R2 of the bush body 91 can be brought into contact with the first corner 136a and second corner 136b of the bush mounting portion 13. On the other hand, the third corner R3 and fourth corner R4 of the bush body 91 cannot be brought into contact with the first corner 136a and second corner 136b of the bush mounting portion 13, so the bush member 9 cannot be attached to the bush mounting portion 13 by reversing its front and back orientation. Therefore, it is possible to prevent a gap from forming between the bush member 9 and the housing 1.

[0094] Next, the communication device 100 of this embodiment will be described with reference to Figure 19. Figure 19 is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing a part of the communication device 100 of this embodiment. As shown in Figure 19, when the bushing member 9 is attached to the bushing mounting portion 13 in the normal position, the first notch 98 is located on the side of the bushing member 9 that is closer to the connection portion 10a of the terminal block 10, and extends from the first hole 9C in a direction approaching the connection portion 10a of the terminal block 10. Similarly, the second notch 99, which was described with reference to Figures 15 to 17, is also located on the side of the bushing member 9 that is closer to the connection portion 10a of the terminal block 10 when the bushing member 9 is attached to the bushing mounting portion 13 in the normal position, and extends from the second hole 9D (see Figure 18) in a direction approaching the connection portion 10a of the terminal block 10. Therefore, the work of connecting the cable member CA, which was described with reference to Figure 13, to the connection portion 10a of the terminal block 10 becomes easier.

[0095] Next, the communication device 100 of this embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 20 to 22. Figure 20 is yet another perspective view showing the bushing member 9. As shown in Figure 20, the upper part 9U of the bushing member 9 has a lower surface 9Ua. The lower surface 9Ua is positioned around the protrusion 91a.

[0096] Specifically, the lower surface 9Ua has a first lower surface portion 91b and a second lower surface portion 91c. The first lower surface portion 91b is located to the left of the protrusion 91a. The second lower surface portion 91c is located to the right of the protrusion 91a. The first lower surface portion 91b and the second lower surface portion 91c extend in the front-rear direction. The first lower surface portion 91b includes the lower surface of the second overhang 93. The second lower surface portion 91c includes the lower surface of the fourth overhang 95.

[0097] As shown in Figure 20, the front portion of the upper part 9U of the bush member 9 protrudes forward from the projection 91a, and the lower surface 9Ua further has a third lower surface portion 91d located in front of the projection 91a.

[0098] Figure 21 is a rear view showing the cover member 3 and the bushing member 9. Figure 22 is a perspective view showing the cover member 3. More specifically, Figures 21 and 22 show the inside of the cover member 3.

[0099] As shown in Figure 21, the bushing member 9 contacts the inner surface of the housing 1. In this embodiment, the bushing member 9 contacts the inner surface of the lower wall portion 32 of the cover member 3. Specifically, the lower surface 9Ua, as described with reference to Figure 20, contacts the inner surface of the lower wall portion 32 of the cover member 3. Therefore, the lower surfaces of the second protrusion 93 and the fourth protrusion 95 contact the inner surface of the lower wall portion 32 of the cover member 3. In addition, the lower surface (third lower surface portion 91d) of the upper part 9U of the bushing member 9 that protrudes forward relative to the projection 91a contacts the inner surface of the lower wall portion 32 of the cover member 3.

[0100] As shown in Figure 22, the housing 1 has a contact portion 35. In this embodiment, the cover member 3 has the contact portion 35. The contact portion 35 is provided on the inner surface of the lower wall portion 32 of the cover member 3. Specifically, the contact portion 35 is provided around the fitting hole 3A.

[0101] The bush member 9 attached to the bush mounting portion 13 makes contact with the contact portion 35. Specifically, the lower surface 9Ua, as explained with reference to Figure 20, makes contact with the contact portion 35. Therefore, the lower surfaces of the second protruding portion 93 and the fourth protruding portion 95 make contact with the contact portion 35. In addition, the lower surface (third lower surface portion 91d) of the upper part 9U of the bush member 9 that protrudes forward relative to the protruding portion 91a makes contact with the contact portion 35.

[0102] In this embodiment, the width W3 of the second protrusion 93 is greater than the width W2 of the first protrusion 92. Similarly, the width of the fourth protrusion 95 is greater than the width W2 of the third protrusion 94. Therefore, the area in which the bushing member 9 contacts the inner surface of the housing 1 can be increased. As a result, it becomes more difficult for foreign matter such as dust to enter the inside of the housing 1 from the outside of the housing 1, thus improving the dustproof performance of the communication device 100.

[0103] Next, the communication device 100 of this embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 22 to 24. Figure 23 is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view showing the cover member 3 and the bushing member 9.

[0104] As shown in Figures 22 and 23, the housing 1 has a groove 36. The groove 36 allows rainwater that has entered the inside of the housing 1 to be discharged to the outside of the housing 1. In this embodiment, the groove 36 is provided in the lower wall portion 32 of the cover member 3.

[0105] More specifically, as shown in Figure 23, the groove 36 has a first groove 36a and a second groove 36b. The first groove 36a is provided on the inner circumferential surface 3A1 of the fitting hole 3A and extends in the direction in which the fitting hole 3A extends. The second groove 36b is provided on the inner surface of the housing 1 and communicates with the first groove 36a. In this embodiment, the second groove 36b is provided on the inner surface of the lower wall portion 32 of the cover member 3. More specifically, the second groove 36b is provided on the contact portion 35. Rainwater that enters the inside of the housing 1 flows from the second groove 36b into the first groove 36a, flows through the first groove 36a and is discharged to the outside of the housing 1.

[0106] Figure 24 is a cross-sectional view showing the housing 1 and the bushing member 9. As shown in Figure 24, if the communication device 100 (housing 1) rotates backward around the horizontal pipe P1 and assumes a tilted position relative to the vertical direction, rainwater RW that has entered the housing 1 may remain inside the housing 1. According to this embodiment, rainwater RW that has entered the housing 1 is discharged to the outside of the housing 1 via the groove 36, which was described with reference to Figures 22 and 23. Therefore, it is possible to prevent rainwater from remaining inside the housing 1. Note that the communication device 100 (housing 1) may rotate around the horizontal pipe P1 due to strong winds, such as a typhoon.

[0107] Next, the communication device 100 of this embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 12 and 25. Figure 25 is a front view showing the communication device 100 with the cover member 3 removed. As shown in Figure 25, the communication device 100 of this embodiment can accommodate a second-size battery 12B in the housing 1. The battery 12B is larger in size than the battery 12A shown in Figure 11.

[0108] Specifically, the second claw portion 147, as described with reference to Figure 12, can be detached from the base portion 111. For example, if the support member 11 is made of resin, the second claw portion 147 can be detached from the base portion 111 by bending it. When installing the battery 12B into the housing 1, the second claw portion 147 is detached from the base portion 111 to expand the space of the battery housing portion 14. When the battery 12B is housed in the battery housing portion 14, the second side wall portion 143, together with the first side wall portion 141, clamps the battery 12B. Therefore, rattling of the battery 12B in the left-right direction can be suppressed.

[0109] Next, the communication device 100 of this embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 26 and 27. Figure 26 is a cross-sectional view showing the communication device 100 when the battery 12 is inserted into the case member 2. As shown in Figure 26, the support member 11 supports the circuit board 15 on its rear side. More specifically, the support member 11 holds the circuit board 15 at a position away from the base portion 111. Therefore, the battery 12 (metal component) can be held at a position away from the wireless communication unit mounted on the circuit board 15. Thus, stable wireless communication can be performed.

[0110] As shown in Figure 26, when the battery 12 is housed inside the housing 1, the cover member 3 is removed from the case member 2. The battery 12 is inserted into the case member 2 through the opening 2A of the case member 2. Specifically, the battery 12 can be inserted diagonally into the case member 2.

[0111] In this embodiment, the base portion 111 has a recess 148 that is recessed to the rear. The recess 148 is formed on the placement surface 111a of the battery housing portion 14. According to this embodiment, the gap between the front wall portion 21 of the case member 2 and the base portion 111 can be enlarged by the recess 148. Therefore, the battery 12 can be inserted into the case member 2 without increasing the thickness of the housing 1 (communication device 100). As a result, the housing 1 (communication device 100) can be made smaller. Specifically, the housing 1 (communication device 100) can be made thinner.

[0112] Furthermore, the support member 11 is made of resin and is elastic. Therefore, the battery 12 can be pressed against the first claw portion 146, causing the first claw portion 146 to bend, and then inserted into the case member 2. Thus, the housing 1 (communication device 100) can be made thinner.

[0113] Figure 27 is a cross-sectional view of the communication device 100 immediately after the battery 12 has been placed in the battery housing 14. As shown in Figure 27, when the battery 12 is placed in the battery housing 14, it is positioned on the placement surface 111a. Specifically, the outer portion of the placement surface 111a with respect to the recess 148 comes into contact with the back surface of the battery 12A.

[0114] According to this embodiment, the battery 12 can be positioned in a location that overlaps with the circuit board 15. Therefore, an increase in the area of ​​the housing 1 when viewed from the front can be suppressed. Furthermore, according to this embodiment, an increase in the thickness (length in the front-to-back direction) of the housing 1 can be suppressed while simultaneously suppressing an increase in the area of ​​the housing 1 when viewed from the front.

[0115] Embodiments of the present invention have been described above with reference to the drawings (Figures 1 to 27). However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and can be implemented in various forms without departing from its spirit. Furthermore, the multiple components disclosed in the above embodiments can be modified as appropriate. For example, some components from all the components shown in one embodiment may be added to the components of another embodiment, or some components from all the components shown in one embodiment may be deleted from the embodiment.

[0116] The drawings schematically show each component in order to facilitate understanding of the invention, and the thickness, length, number, spacing, etc. of each component shown may differ from the actual dimensions due to the convenience of drawing creation. Furthermore, the configuration of each component shown in the above embodiments is merely an example and is not particularly limiting, and it goes without saying that various modifications are possible without substantially departing from the effects of the present invention.

[0117] For example, in the embodiment described with reference to Figures 1 to 27, the bush member 9 had a first notch 98 and a second notch 99, but the first notch 98 and the second notch 99 may be omitted.

[0118] Furthermore, although the number of grooves 36 was one in the embodiment described with reference to Figures 1 to 27, the housing 1 may have multiple grooves 36.

[0119] Furthermore, in the embodiment described with reference to Figures 1 to 27, the housing 1 had a groove 36, but the bushing member 9 may also have a groove 36. In this case, the first groove 36a is provided on the part of the bushing member 9 that fits into the fitting hole 3A of the housing 1. For example, the first groove 36a is provided on the side surface of the protruding part 91a of the bushing body 91. The second groove 36b is provided on the part of the bushing member 9 that contacts the contact part 35 of the housing 1. For example, the second groove 36b is provided on the lower surface 9Ua described with reference to Figure 20. [Industrial applicability]

[0120] This invention provides a communication device and has industrial applicability. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0121] 1: Cabinet 2: Case components 2A: Opening 3: Cover component 11: Support member 12:Battery 12A:Battery 12B:Battery 14: Battery compartment 15: Circuit board 100: Communication device 111: Base part 111a: Placement surface 141: First side wall section 143: Second side wall section 146: 1st claw part 147:Second claw part 148: Recess

Claims

1. A communication device that transmits information indicating the measurement results of a measuring device related to resources or energy, Circuit board and The mounted components on the circuit board, A housing that houses the circuit board, the mounted components, and a battery that supplies power to drive the mounted components, A support member is disposed inside the housing to support the battery and the circuit board. Equipped with, The aforementioned enclosure is A case member having an opening, A cover member that covers the opening and It has, The cover member is detachably attached to the case member. The battery can be inserted into the case member through the opening, The support member has a base portion having an arrangement surface on which the battery is placed, The base portion supports the circuit board on the rear side opposite to the placement surface side. The base portion has a recess on the placement surface, The case member has an upper wall portion that constitutes the upper wall of the housing and a front wall portion that constitutes the front wall of the housing. The support member extends to the back side of the front wall portion, The recess is formed at a position opposite to the lower end of the front wall portion, The support member has an elastic first claw portion that protrudes from the base portion toward the front wall portion and supports the battery from below, and is a communication device.

2. The aforementioned support member is The first side wall portion and A second claw portion protrudes from the base portion, faces the first side wall portion, and together with the first side wall portion, clamps the first-size battery. A communication device according to claim 1, having the following features.

3. The support member has a second side wall portion that faces the first side wall portion and sandwiches the second size battery, which is larger than the first size, together with the first side wall portion. The communication device according to claim 2, wherein the second claw portion is located between the first side wall portion and the second side wall portion and is detachable from the base portion.

Images