Utility cover for use with automated metering equipment

Abstract

Utility covers and utility cover assemblies for use with automated metering infrastructure equipment are provided. The utility cover includes a body having one or more windows that permit electromagnetic energy to pass through the body with limited or no attenuation. One or more plugs made of a material substantially transparent to electromagnetic energy seals the one or more windows to limit or prevent moisture to pass through the one or more windows.

What is claimed is: 
     
         1 . A utility cover comprising a body having an upper side and a bottom side, at least one window within the body through which electromagnetic energy may pass through the body, and a plug positioned within the at least one window at least at the upper side of the body, the body being made from a material capable of supporting pedestrian or vehicle traffic and the plug being made from a material that is substantially transparent to electromagnetic energy so that electromagnetic energy can pass through the window without being substantially attenuated. 
     
     
         2 . The utility cover according to  claim 1 , wherein the body is made of a metallic material. 
     
     
         3 . The utility cover according to  claim 1 , wherein the metallic material comprises cast iron, steel or aluminum. 
     
     
         4 . The utility cover according to  claim 1 , wherein the material substantially transparent to electromagnetic energy comprises fiberglass composite, polymer concrete, polyethylene, polypropylene or vulcanized rubber. 
     
     
         5 . The utility cover according to  claim 1 , wherein the electromagnetic energy comprises radio frequency signals. 
     
     
         6 . The utility cover according to  claim 1  further comprising an apron secured to or integrally formed into the body and positioned to surround the at least one of the at least one window. 
     
     
         7 . The utility cover according to  claim 6  further comprising at least one rib secured to or integrally formed into the body and extending radially outward from the apron. 
     
     
         10 . A utility cover assembly comprising:
 a utility cover comprising a body having an upper side and a bottom side, at least one window within the body through which electromagnetic energy may pass through the body, and a plug positioned within the at least one window at least at the upper side of the body, wherein the body is made from a material capable of supporting pedestrian or vehicle traffic and the plug is made from a material that is substantially transparent to electromagnetic energy so that electromagnetic energy can pass through the window without being substantially attenuated; and   an electronic module positioned on the lower side of the body proximate the at least one window and capable of transmitting electromagnetic energy or receiving electromagnetic energy.   
     
     
         11 . The utility cover assembly according to  claim 10  further comprising a holding bracket for securing the electronic module to the lower side of the body. 
     
     
         12 . The utility cover assembly according to  claim 10 , wherein the body is made of a metallic material. 
     
     
         13 . The utility cover assembly according to  claim 10 , wherein the metallic material comprises cast iron, steel or aluminum. 
     
     
         14 . The utility cover assembly according to  claim 10 , wherein the material substantially transparent to electromagnetic energy comprises fiberglass composite, polymer concrete, polyethylene, polypropylene, or vulcanized rubber. 
     
     
         15 . The utility cover assembly according to  claim 10 , wherein the electromagnetic energy comprises radio frequency signals. 
     
     
         16 . The utility cover assembly according to  claim 10  further comprising an apron secured to or integrally formed into the body and positioned to surround the at least one of the at least one window. 
     
     
         17 . The utility cover assembly according to  claim 16  further comprising at least one rib secured to or integrally formed into the body and extending radially outward from the apron.