Abstract: An encoder-type register for an automatic meter reader to be interfaced with a visual read-only register of the kind found in a water meter that measures water consumption. The water meter register has a rotatable sweep hand that carries a magnet and rotates around a register plate in relation to the speed and volume of water moving through the water meter. A plurality of (e.g., three) magnetic (e.g., Hall effect) sensors are fixedly positioned one-after-another in the path of the magnet carried by the rotating sweep hand. The magnetic sensors measure the magnetic field produced by the rotating magnet and generate corresponding output signals. A microprocessor receives the output signals generated by the magnetic sensors whenever the magnet rotates therepast. The microprocessor stores information concerning the number of rotations of the magnet carried by the sweep hand depending upon the direction in which the magnet is being rotated as an indication of water consumption.

Abstract: An adjustable stand to be detachably connected to and provide vertical support for a conventional water meter of the kind that is coupled to a fire hydrant to measure the volume of water consumed by a user by way of the fire hydrant. The water meter stand includes a foot that lays upon the ground and a meter support plate that is attached to the fire hydrant water meter. A turnbuckle assembly is located between the foot and the meter support plate. A housing of the turnbuckle assembly is rotated to cause upper and lower threaded rods to correspondingly move through the housing. Accordingly, the length of the stand between the foot and the meter support plate can be selectively adjusted regardless of the dimensions of the fire hydrant and the elevation of the water meter coupled thereto and suspended above the ground.

Abstract: An encoder-type register for an automatic meter reader to be interfaced with a visual read-only register of the kind found in a water meter that measures water consumption. The water meter register has a rotatable sweep hand that carries a magnet and rotates around a register plate in relation to the speed and volume of water moving through the water meter. A plurality of (e.g., three) magnetic (e.g., Hall effect) sensors are fixedly positioned one-after-another in the path of the magnet carried by the rotating sweep hand. The magnetic sensors measure the magnetic field produced by the rotating magnet and generate corresponding output signals. A microprocessor receives the output signals generated by the magnetic sensors whenever the magnet rotates therepast. The microprocessor stores information concerning the number of rotations of the magnet carried by the sweep hand depending upon the direction in which the magnet is being rotated as an indication of water consumption.