The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document.
The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge covers the following: Patent number, Date patent was issued, Date patent was filed, Title of the patent, Applicant, Inventor, Assignee, Attorney firm, Primary examiner, Assistant examiner, CPCs, and Abstract. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document (in Adobe Acrobat format, aka pdf). To download or print any patent click here.
Patent No.:
Date of Patent:
Aug. 12, 2003
Filed:
Jan. 22, 2002
Robert K. Payne, Waseca, MN (US);
Wayne A. Lien, Waseca, MN (US);
Itron, Inc., Spokane, WA (US);
Abstract
A radio frequency (RF) antenna of the present invention generally comprises an electrical conductor and a unitary metallic surface mounting structure. The electrical conductor, which performs the radiator function, is secured to the surface mounting structure so that the electrical conductor may use the surface mounting structure not only as a surface mount but additionally as a ground plane. The surface mounting structure is presented in a cross-configuration having outward extending arms. The arms perform the ground plane function and are bent to a desired angle to produce a desired radiation pattern and/or impedance. A plastic radome with a metallic insert is preferably used to cover the electrical conductor and to secure the electrical conductor to the surface mounting structure.