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:
Dec. 13, 2011
Filed:
Feb. 07, 2007
John F. Mastarone, Jr., Arlington, VA (US);
William J. Chappell, Lafayette, IN (US);
John F. Mastarone, Jr., Arlington, VA (US);
William J. Chappell, Lafayette, IN (US);
Purdue Research Foundation, West Lafayette, IN (US);
Abstract
Methods and apparatus that provide grade-level RF transceivers for use in trans-grade wireless communication networks. The methods involve incorporating slot antennas into grade-level opening covers, such as manhole covers, to provide built-in antennas for transceivers that may be connected by transmission lines. The grade-level transceivers use coupling mechanisms to connect transceivers to the slot antennas by way of transmission feed lines. Multi-slot grade-level transceivers use switching mechanisms to switch between multiple slot antennas. Certain embodiments may also include adaptable RF circuitry. Trans-grade wireless communication networks use these grade-level transceivers to communicate between below-ground and above-ground portions of the network, which may be used in underground utility systems such as combined sewer systems.