TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The aspects of the present disclosure relate generally to bracket assemblies for mounting radio remote units in particular to a bracket assembly for mounting multiple radio remote units.

BACKGROUND

[0002] A radio remote unit (RRU) is generally understood to include equipment for radio base stations, such as wireless communication systems. Radio remote units are typically installed in radio towers or in facilities near radio towers. Among other things, it is helpful for such radio remote units to be small, lightweight and minimize the cost for onsite installations and upgrades.

[0003] Installations for radio remote units generally include a bracket to which the radio remote unit is mounted. Brackets can be screwed to the radio remote units, fixed with screws to a pole clamp, or provided with a hook-on function. However, these systems typically have limitations in stability as well as limitations on the number of remote radio units that can be installed together. It can also be difficult to easily replace or add remote radio units. It would be advantageous to provide a bracket assembly and bracket installation system that supports quick installation, upgrade and replacement of radio remote units.

[0004] Accordingly, it would be desirable to provide a mounting bracket for a radio resource unit that addresses at least some of the problems identified above. SUMMARY

[0005] It is an object of the present invention to provide a bracket assembly for mounting a radio resource unit. This object is solved by the subject matter of the independent claims. Further advantageous modifications can be found in the dependent claims.

[0006] According to a first aspect of the present invention, the above and further objects and advantages are obtained by a bracket assembly for mounting a radio resource unit to a mounting structure. The bracket assembly includes a first bracket and a second bracket. The first bracket has a body portion with a front configured to face the radio resource unit, a rear configured to face the mounting structure, a first lateral side and a second lateral side. At least one flange member extends away from the front of the body portion. At least one fixing shaft receiving bore is configured to receive at least one fixing shaft of another first bracket, wherein the fixing shaft receiving bore extends from the second lateral side of the body portion into the body portion. At least one fixing shaft extends away from the first lateral side of the body portion. A first side of the second bracket is configured to be affixed to the radio resource unit. A second side of the second bracket is configured to engage the at least one hook flange member of the first bracket. The aspects of the disclosed embodiments enable one or more RRU's to be secured in a side-by-side configuration in a removable and replaceable manner, without the need for tools.

[0007] In a first possible implementation form of the bracket assembly according to the first aspect, the at least one flange member extends away from a front of the body portion in a horizontal arrangement. This allows the second bracket for the radio resource unit to be hooked on to the first bracket in a aligned manner. [0008] In a second possible implementation form of the bracket assembly according to the first aspect as such or the first possible implementation form of the bracket assembly according to the first aspect, the fixing shaft receiving bore has a straight form that is disposed at an angle of approximately 90 degrees to the lateral side. The aspects of the disclosed embodiments enable the first brackets to be connected together in an aligned manner.

[0009] In a third possible implementation form of the bracket assembly according to the first aspect as such or to any of the preceding possible implementation forms of the bracket assembly according to the first aspect the at least one fixing shaft is disposed at an angle of 90 degrees to the lateral side. This allows the fixing shaft to be received in the fixing shaft receiving bore and aligns the respective brackets together.

[0010] In a fourth possible implementation form of the bracket assembly according to the first aspect as such or to any of the preceding possible implementation forms of the bracket assembly according to the first aspect a first end of the at least one fixing shaft is secured to the first lateral side of the body portion. This configuration allows the brackets to be aligned in a side-by-side configuration.

[0011] In a fifth possible implementation form of the bracket assembly according to the fourth possible implementation form the first end of the at least one fixing shaft is secured to the first lateral side of the body portion by screwing the first end into the first lateral side of the body portion. The bracket assembly can be extended to accommodate any number of first brackets and RRUs.

[0012] In a sixth possible implementation form of the bracket assembly according to the first aspect as such or to any of the second through fourth possible implementation forms the at least one fixing shaft receiving bore extends from the second lateral side of the body portion to and through the first lateral side of the body portion. The alignment of the fixing shaft receiving bores and the side-by-side first brackets is maintained.

[0013] In a seventh possible implementation form of the bracket assembly according to the sixth possible implementation form, the first end of the at least one fixing shaft is received in the at least one fixing shaft receiving bore from the first lateral side of the body portion. Any suitable number of first brackets can be mounted in a side-by-side configuration in an aligned manner.

[0014] In an eighth possible implementation form of the bracket assembly according to the first aspect as such or to any of the preceding possible implementation forms the first bracket further comprises a locking member, the locking member comprising a locking shaft, which extends from a top to a bottom of the body portion and through at least a portion of the at least one fixing shaft receiving bore, wherein the locking shaft is configured to lock the at least one fixing shaft of the another first bracket in the at least one fixing shaft receiving bore when the locking shaft is in a locked state, and to allow the at least one fixing shaft of the another first bracket to be inserted into or removed from the at least one fixing shaft receiving bore when the locking shaft is in an unlocked state. The first brackets can be locked together to maintain the mounted RRU's in a secure manner.

[0015] In a ninth possible implementation form of the bracket assembly according to the eighth possible implementation form, a portion of the locking shaft that extends through the portion of the at least one fixing shaft receiving bore has a grooved portion that allows the at least one fixing shaft to enter the portion of the at least one fixing shaft receiving bore in the unlocked state of the bracket assembly. This integrates the locking shaft in the body portion and maintains the compact size of the first bracket.

[0016] In a tenth possible implementation form of the bracket assembly according to the eighth and ninth possible implementation forms, a first portion of the at least one fixing shaft comprises an engagement portion configured to engage with the locking shaft when the locking shaft is in the locked state. Only a portion of the locking shaft engages with the fixing shaft, which allows the locking shaft to be integrated in the body portion of the first bracket and reduces the overall size of the first bracket.

[0017] In an eleventh possible implementation form of the bracket assembly according to the tenth possible implementation form the engagement portion of the first portion of the at least one fixing shaft has a grooved form that is configured to engage a corresponding form of the locking shaft in the locked state. The complimentary engagement portions eases manufacturing.

[0018] In an twelfth possible implementation form of the bracket assembly according to the eighth through eleventh possible implementation forms the locking member further comprises a lever configured to rotate the locking shaft between the locked state and the unlocked state. The first brackets can be locked together and unlocked without the need for tools.

[0019] In a thirteenth possible implementation form of the bracket assembly according to the first aspect as such or to any of the preceding possible implementation forms the at least one fixing shaft comprises a first fixing shaft disposed in an upper half of the first lateral side of the body portion and a second fixing shaft disposed in a lower half of the first lateral side of the body portion; and the at least one fixing shaft receiving bore comprises a first fixing shaft receiving bore and a second fixing shaft receiving bore, the first fixing shaft receiving bore and the second fixing shaft receiving bore disposed in corresponding positions in the body portion aligned with the first fixing shaft and the second fixing shaft, respectively. This eases alignment issues and provides for a secure mounting of the RRUs.

[0020] In a fourteenth possible implementation form of the bracket assembly according to the thirteenth possible implementation form the upper half is above a midline of the body portion and the lower half is below the midline of the body portion. The positioning and alignment can provide strength to the overall bracket assembly.

[0021] In a fifteenth possible implementation form of the bracket assembly according to the thirteenth and fourteenth possible implementation forms the first fixing shaft and the second fixing shaft are aligned on opposite sides of the locking shaft. Rotation of the first bracket can be minimized.

[0022] In a sixteenth possible implementation form of the bracket assembly according to the thirteenth through fifteenth possible implementation forms the first fixing shaft receiving bore is disposed in an upper portion of the second lateral side of the body portion and the second fixing shaft receiving bore is disposed in a lower portion of the second lateral side of the body portion. The positioning and alignment can provide strength to the overall bracket assembly and minimize rotation.

[0023] In a seventeenth possible implementation form of the bracket assembly according to the sixteenth possible implementation form the first fixing shaft receiving bore and the second fixing shaft receiving bore are aligned on opposite sides of the locking shaft. Rotation of the first bracket can be minimized.

[0024] In an eighteenth possible implementation form of the bracket assembly according to the first aspect as such or to any of the preceding possible implementation forms, the at least one flange member comprises a first flange member and a second flange member, the first flange member disposed on an upper half of the front of the body portion and the second flange member disposed on a lower half of the front of the body portion. The two flange members provide a stable structure for mounting RRUs to the first bracket.

[0025] In a nineteenth possible implementation form of the bracket assembly according to the eighteenth possible implementation form, the first flange member comprises a first member extending horizontally away from the front of the body portion and a second member extending vertically upward from the first horizontal member to define a first channel between the second vertical member and the body portion, and the second flange member comprises a first member extending horizontally away from the front of the body portion and a second member extending vertically upward from the first horizontal member to define a second channel between the second vertical member and the body portion, wherein a width of the second channel of the second flange member is smaller than a width of the first channel of the first flange member. The RRU bracket can be readily attached to the first bracket in a secure manner without the need for tools.

[0026] In a twentieth possible implementation form of the bracket assembly according to the eighteenth and nineteenth possible implementation forms, the second bracket comprises an upper hook member and a lower hook member, the upper hook member and lower hook member are configured to engage the first flange member and the second flange member of the first bracket, respectively. The RRU bracket can be readily attached to the first bracket in a secure manner without the need for tools.

[0027] In a twenty-first possible implementation form of the bracket assembly according to the twentieth possible implementation form the upper hook member of the second bracket comprises a first downward protruding member and a second downward protruding member, the first downward protruding member and the second downward protruding member configured to be received in corresponding openings in the first flange member to prevent movement of the upper hook member along the first flange member when the upper hook member is engaged with the first flange member. The RRU bracket can be readily attached to the first bracket in a secure manner without the need for tools.

[0028] In a twenty-second possible implementation form of the bracket assembly according to the twelfth through twenty-first possible implementation forms, the bracket assembly includes a handle member pivotally attached to an upper half of the second bracket, the handle member comprising a handle portion; and a clamping edge member, the clamping edge member configured to be rotated into a clamping edge receiving member of the first bracket when the handle member is pivoted to a locked state. The dual functionality of the locking handle enables the brackets to be locked to each other and prevents RRU's from being installed if the brackets are not fully locked.

[0029] In a twenty-third possible implementation form of the bracket assembly according to the twenty-second possible implementation form, the clamping edge member extends away from the handle member and is received in a corresponding notch portion of the clamping edge receiving member when the handle member is pivoted to the locked state. The handle member is prevented from unlocking.

[0030] In a twenty-fourth possible implementation form of the bracket assembly according to the twenty-second and twenty-third possible implementation forms the clamping edge member prevents up and down movement of the upper hook member and the lower hook member relative to the respective first flange member and second flange member when the handle member is in the locked state. The RRUs are mounted in a secure manner.

[0031] In a twenty-fifth possible implementation form of the bracket assembly according to the twenty-second through twenty-fourth possible implementation forms the clamping edge member pushes the upper hook member away from the first bracket in the locked state of the handle member to tightly engage the upper hook member with the first flange member. The handle member is prevented from unlocking.

[0032] In a twenty-sixth possible implementation form of the bracket assembly of according to the twenty-second through twenty-fifth implementation forms the lever of the locking member is disposed on a top of the body portion, and when the handle member is pivoted to the locked state, a portion of the upper hook member of the second bracket engages the lever of the locking shaft to prevent the lever rotating from the locked state to the unlocked state. The dual functionality of the locking handle enables the brackets to be locked to each other and prevents RRU's from being installed if the brackets are not fully locked.

[0033] In a twenty-seventh possible implementation form of the bracket assembly according to anyone of the twenty-second through twenty-sixth possible implementation forms a position of the lever of the locking member in the unlocked state of the locking shaft blocks pivoting of the handle member to the locked state. The dual functionality of the locking handle enables the brackets to be locked to each other and prevents RRU's from being installed if the brackets are not fully locked.

[0034] In a twenty-eight possible implementation form of the bracket assembly according to the first aspect as such or to any of the preceding possible implementation forms, the bracket assembly comprises a plurality of the first brackets, wherein the plurality of the first brackets are connected side by side via the at least one fixing shaft and the at least one fixing shaft receiving bore. A number of RRU's can be mounted in a blade configuration with individual replacement and installation/ expansion without impact to other already installed RRU's.

[0035] In a twenty-ninth possible implementation form of the bracket assembly according to the first aspect as such or to any of the preceding possible implementation forms the bracket assembly comprises a base bracket configured to be secured to the mounting structure, the base bracket being affixed to the first bracket. The mounting bracket assembly of the disclosed embodiments allows for the bracket assembly to be installed on walls and a wide range of poles.

[0036] These and other aspects, implementation forms, and advantages of the exemplary embodiments will become apparent from the embodiments described herein considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. It is to be understood, however, that the description and drawings are designed solely for purposes of illustration and not as a definition of the limits of the disclosed invention, for which reference should be made to the appended claims. Additional aspects and advantages of the invention will be set forth in the description that follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of the invention. Moreover, the aspects and advantages of the invention may be realized and obtained by means of the instrumentalities and combinations particularly pointed out in the appended claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0037] In the following detailed portion of the present disclosure, the invention will be explained in more detail with reference to the example embodiments shown in the drawings, in which:

[0038] Figure 1 illustrates a radio remote unit mounting bracket assembly incorporating aspects of the disclosed embodiments;

[0039] Figure 2 illustrates a fixation bracket for a mounting bracket assembly incorporating aspects of the disclosed embodiments;

[0040] Figure 3 is a back view of a fixation bracket for a mounting bracket assembly incorporating aspects of the disclosed embodiments;

[0041] Figure 4 illustrates an assembly view of a fixation bracket for a mounting bracket assembly incorporating aspects of the disclosed embodiments;

[0042] Figure 5 illustrates a side view of a fixation bracket for a mounting bracket assembly incorporating aspects of the disclosed embodiments;

[0043] Figure 6 is a top cross-sectional view illustrating the receiving bore of a fixation bracket for a mounting bracket assembly incorporating aspects of the disclosed embodiments;

[0044] Figure 7 illustrates a top cross-sectional view of a pair of fixation brackets for a mounting bracket assembly incorporating aspects of the disclosed embodiments;

[0045] Figure 8 illustrates a top cross-sectional view of a pair of fixation brackets coupled together for a mounting bracket assembly incorporating aspects of the disclosed embodiments;

[0046] Figure 9 illustrates a perspective view of a radio remote unit mounting bracket for a mounting bracket assembly incorporating aspects of the disclosed embodiments; [0047] Figure 10 illustrates a perspective view of a radio remote unit mounting bracket for a mounting bracket assembly incorporating aspects of the disclosed embodiments;

[0048] Figure 11 illustrates an assembly view of a radio remote unit mounting bracket for a mounting bracket assembly incorporating aspects of the disclosed embodiments;

[0049] Figure 12 illustrates a side cross-sectional view of a radio remote unit mounting bracket assembly incorporating aspects of the disclosed embodiments;

[0050] Figure 13 illustrates a side cross-sectional view of a radio remote unit attached to a radio remote unit bracket, fixation bracket and base bracket assembly for a mounting bracket assembly incorporating aspects of the disclosed embodiments;

[0051] Figure 14 illustrates a side cross-sectional view of a radio remote unit attached to a radio remote unit bracket that is secured to a fixation bracket and base bracket assembly for a mounting bracket assembly incorporating aspects of the disclosed embodiments;

[0052] Figure 15 is an exploded view of area E of Figure 14;

[0053] Figure 1 6 illustrates an exemplary fixation bracket attached to a mounting structure for a radio remote unit mounting bracket assembly incorporating aspects of the disclosed embodiments;

[0054] Figure 17 illustrates a fixation bracket attached to a base bracket assembly for a radio remote unit mounting bracket assembly incorporating aspects of the disclosed embodiments;

[0055] Figure 18 illustrates two fixations bracket attached to a base bracket assembly for a radio remote unit mounting bracket assembly incorporating aspects of the disclosed embodiments; [0056] Figure 19 illustrates a radio remote unit attached to a radio remote unit mounting bracket for a radio remote unit mounting bracket assembly incorporating aspects of the disclosed embodiments;

[0057] Figure 20 illustrates the attachment of the radio remote unit and radio remote unit to a fixation bracket for a radio remote unit mounting bracket assembly incorporating aspects of the disclosed embodiments;

[0058] Figure 21 illustrates the radio remote unit mounting bracket of Figure 20 in the locked state.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DISCLOSED EMBODIMENTS [0059] The aspects of the disclosed embodiments are directed to a mounting bracket assembly for securing multiple radio remote units (RRU), also referred to herein as radio resource units, to a mounting structure in a removable fashion. In one embodiment, the radio remote units are or form part of a base station in a wireless communication system. In alternate embodiments, the remote radio units can comprise any suitable electronic devices or equipment that are organized in a rack or blade type of mounting structure. A blade type of mounting structure or configuration is generally one in which the different electronic equipment is installed adjacent to one another with a minimum gap between the electronic equipment. This mounting configuration can also be referred to as a bookshelf type of arrangement.

[0060] Figure 1 illustrates a mounting bracket assembly 100 incorporating aspects of the disclosed embodiments. Referring to Figure 1 , in one embodiment, the mounting bracket assembly 100 allows one or more RRU's 102 to be secured to a suitable mounting structure 104, in a removable and replaceable manner. In the example of Figure 1 , there are two RRU's shown, generally identified as RRU 102a and RRU 102b. The RRU's 102a, 102b can be mounted in a blade type of configuration, where each RRU 102a, 102b is independently installed relative to another RRU 102a, 102b.

[0061] In the example of Figure 1 , RRU 102a and RRU 102b are illustrated in the mounting bracket assembly 100, arranged in a side-by-side configuration. In alternate embodiments, the mounting bracket assembly 100 can include more or less than two RRU 102. For the purposes of the description herein, the term RRU 102 will refer not only to a single RRU, but also to a plurality of RRUs, such as RRU 102a and RRU 102b.

[0062] The aspects of the disclosed embodiments minimize the needs for tools to add an RRU 102 to the mounting bracket assembly 100. Also, the aspects of the disclosed embodiments minimize tolerance requirements and misalignment of an RRU 102 in the mounting bracket assembly 100. With the side-by-side mounting configuration, the width of the mounting bracket assembly 100 is generally not wider than a sum of a width of the individual RRU's 102 in the mounting bracket assembly 100.

[0063] The mounting bracket assembly 100 can be secured to any suitable mounting structure 104. The mounting structure 104 illustrated in Figure 1 is in the form of a pole. In alternate embodiments, the mounting structure 104 can comprise any suitable structure to which the RRU 102 is desired to be secured to. Examples of alternate mounting structures can include, but are not limited to, a wall, an equipment rack assembly, an equipment bench or other suitable structures to which one or more RRU's are desired to be affixed to.

[0064] As illustrated in the example of Figure 1 , the mounting bracket assembly 100 includes a base bracket assembly 10, also referred to as the mounting structure or pole bracket 10. The base bracket assembly 10 is configured to be secured to the mounting structure 104. In one embodiment, the base bracket assembly 10 comprises a clamping device. In alternate embodiments, the base bracket assembly 10 can be secured to the mounting bracket assembly 100 in any suitable manner. For example, in one embodiment, the base bracket assembly 10 is mounted directly to the mounting structure.

[0065] As illustrated in Figure 1 , the mounting bracket assembly 100 includes one or more RRU mounting bracket assemblies 20. The RRU mounting bracket assemblies 20 are configured to secure a respective RRU 102 to the mounting structure 104. In the embodiment shown in Figure 1 , one or more of the RRU mounting bracket assemblies 20 are secured to the base bracket assembly 10, which is secured to the mounting structure 104.

[0066] In the example of Figure 1 , there are two RRU mounting bracket assemblies 20 secured to the base bracket assembly 10, one for each RRU 102a and 102b. In alternate embodiments, the mounting bracket assembly 100 can include any suitable number of RRU mounting bracket assemblies 20 other than including two. For example, the aspects of the disclosed embodiments can provide for the mounting bracket assembly 100 to include more than three RRU mounting bracket assemblies 20. In the examples described herein, only one of the RRU mounting bracket assemblies 20 needs to be secured to the base bracket assembly 10. As will be described below, the other RRU mounting bracket assemblies 20 are configured to be secured together. At least one of the one RRU mounting bracket assemblies 20 is secured to the base bracket assembly 20.

[0067] Referring to Figures 1 , 2 and 4, the RRU mounting bracket assembly 20 generally includes a first bracket 30 and a second bracket 40. The first bracket 30 is generally configured to be secured to the base bracket assembly 10 and will also be referred to herein as a fixation bracket. The second bracket 40 is configured to be attached to an RRU 102 and will also be referred to herein as an RRU mounting bracket.

[0068] A first or fixation bracket 30 is used to secure a second or RRU mounting bracket 40 to the mounting structure 104. In the example of Figure 1 , there are three first brackets 30 illustrated, referred to as fixation brackets 301 , 302 and 303. There are also two second brackets illustrated in Figure 1 , referred to as RRU mounting brackets 401 and 402.

[0069] As shown in Figure 1 , in one embodiment, a fixation bracket 30, such as fixation bracket 301 , is secured directly to the base bracket assembly 10. The other fixation brackets 301 , 303 are configured to be coupled and secured to the fixation bracket 301 , generally in a side-by-side configuration. The example of fixation bracket 302 being secured to the base bracket assembly 10 is merely exemplary, and any one or more of the fixation brackets 301 , 302 and 303 can be secured to the base bracket assembly 10. The aspects of the disclosed embodiments only require that a single fixation bracket 30 be secured to the base bracket assembly 10, with the remaining fixation brackets 30 being removably coupled and secured to the one fixation bracket 30 that is secured to the base bracket assembly. While only three fixation brackets 30 are shown in Figure 1 , in alternate embodiments the assembly 100 can include any suitable number of fixation brackets 30. The aspects of the disclosed embodiments advantageously provide for easily and quickly adding fixation brackets 30 to the mounting bracket assembly 100.

[0070] Figures 2-4 illustrates an exemplary fixation bracket 30 incorporating aspects of the disclosed embodiments. In this example, the fixation bracket 30 includes a body portion 310. In one embodiment, the body portion 310 includes a front 312 that is configured to face the radio resource unit 102, a rear 314 that is configured to face the mounting structure 104, a first lateral side 31 6 and a second lateral side 318. In one embodiment, the body portion 310 generally comprises an extruded aluminum body. In alternate embodiments, the body portion 310 can comprise any suitable material, other than including aluminum.

[0071] In the example of Figure 2, the body portion 310 of the fixation bracket 30 includes one or more openings or apertures 320, also referred to as mounting holes. In one embodiment, the mounting holes 320 extend through the body portion 310, from the front 312 to and through the rear 314. The mounting holes 320 are configured to accept a mounting member, such as a bolt or clamp that is used to secure the fixation bracket 30 to the base bracket assembly 10. Although three mounting holes 320 are shown in Figure 2, in alternate embodiments, the fixation bracket 30 can include any suitable number of mounting holes or apertures, other than including three.

[0072] In one embodiment, the fixation bracket 30 also includes a lower flange or hook member 330 and an upper flange or hook member 340. Although the example of Figure 2 shows two flange members, in alternate embodiments the bracket assembly 100 can include any suitable number of flange members, other than including two.

[0073] As shown in the example of Figure 2, the flange members 330, 340 extend away from the front 312 of the body portion 310. The lower flange member 330 includes a first portion 332 and a second portion 334. The first portion 332 is horizontal and extends away from the front 312 of the body portion 310. The second portion 334 extends upwardly, is arranged vertically relative to the first portion 332, and forms a 90 degree angle relative to the first portion 332. The second portion 334 forms a lip or edge for the first portion 332. An area between the front 312 of the body portion 310 and the second portion 334 can be referred to as a channel.

[0074] The upper flange member 340 includes a first portion 342 and a second portion 344. The first portion 342 is horizontal and extends away from the front 312 of the body portion 310. The second portion 344 extends upwardly, is arranged vertically relative to the first portion 342 and forms a 90 degree angle relative to the first portion 342. The second portion 344 forms a lip or edge to the first portion 342. An area between the front 312 of the body portion 310 and the second portion 344 can also be referred to as a channel. In one embodiment, the channel formed between the front 312 of the body portion 310 and the second portion 334 is wider than the channel formed between the front 312 of the body portion 310 and the second portion 344.

[0075] As shown in Figures 3, 5 and 12, in one embodiment, a back portion of the fixing bracket 30 can include a recessed area 390. The recessed area 390 is configured to provide an area for the head of the bolt 11 used to secure the base bracket 10 to the mounting structure 104 to be received. In this manner, the head of the bolts 11 do not interfere with the fixing brackets 30.

[0076] As shown in Figure 2-4, in one embodiment, the fixation bracket 30 includes one or more fixing shafts 350, 360. In the example of Figure 2, there are two fixing shafts 350, 360 generally referred to as a first or lower fixing shaft 350 and a second or upper fixing shaft 360. In alternate embodiments, the fixation bracket 30 can include any suitable number of fixing shafts 350, 360, other than including two.

[0077] In the example of Figure 2, the fixing shafts 350, 360 extend away from the first lateral side 31 6 of the body portion 310. In alternate embodiments, the fixing shafts 350, 360 can be configured to extend away from the second lateral side 318 of the body portion 310.

[0078] The fixing shafts 350, 360 are suitably mounted or secured to the body portion 310. In one embodiment, as shown in Figures 4-6, the fixing shafts 350, 360 are received in corresponding bores 370, 380. The fixing shafts 350, 360 can be secured in the bores 370, 380 in any suitable manner. In one embodiment, the portions 352, 362 of the respective fixing shafts 350, 360 are screwed into the corresponding bores 370, 380. In one alternative embodiment, the fixing shafts 350, 360 are formed as part of the body portion 310. Alternatively, the fixing shafts 350, 360 can be welded to the body portion 310.

[0079] Referring to Figures 5-6, in one embodiment, the second lateral side 318 of the body portion 310 includes openings or bores 375 and 385, also referred to herein as fixing shaft receiving bores. As shown in Figure 6, the fixing shaft receiving bores 375, 385 extend from the second lateral side 318 into the body portion 310. As shown in Figures 7 and 8, the depth, length and area of the fixing shaft receiving bores 375, 385 are configured to receive at least the portions 354a, 364a of the fixing shafts 350a, 360a of a different fixation member 30a.

[0080] Referring again to Figure 4, in one embodiment, the fixation members 350 and 360 include shoulders 356, 366, respectively. The shoulders 356, 366 are configured to allow the respective fixing shafts 350, 360 to be accurately positioned within the bores 370, 380. As shown in Figure 6, for example, the shoulders 356, 366 limit the depth to which the portions 352, 362 can be inserted into the respective bores 370, 380.

[0081] As shown in the example of Figure 6, in one embodiment, the bores 380 and 385 are aligned with each other along a same central axis, illustrated as axis Y1 for bore 380, and axis Y2 for bore 370, not shown in Figure 6. This arrangement can provide for proper alignment of different fixation members 30, when one fixation member is coupled to another fixation member, such as shown in Figure 8. While the bores 380 and 385 are illustrated in the example of Figure 6 as being separated from each other by a dividing member 381 , in one embodiment, the bores 380 and 385 can form a single bore. Similarly, bores 370 and 375 can including a dividing member or also form a single bore.

[0082] Referring for example to Figures 2 and 6, in one embodiment, the fixing shafts 350, 360 each include an engagement portion or fixing groove 358, 368. The fixing grooves 358, 368 are generally concave or semi-circular in nature and comprising a narrowing of the width around at least a portion of the circumference of the respective fixing shafts 350, 360. In the example of Figure 6, the fixing grooves 358, 368 extend around a circumference of the respective fixing shafts 350, 360. As will be described further herein, the fixing grooves 358, 368 are configured to enable to the fixing shafts 350, 360 to be locked in place, when the fixing shafts 350, 360 are inserted into corresponding fixing shaft receiving bores 375a, 385a of another fixation bracket 30a, as illustrated in the examples of Figures 7 and 8.

[0083] Referring to Figures 4 and 12, in one embodiment, the fixation bracket 30 includes a locking member 500. As shown in Figure 12, the locking member 500 includes a locking shaft 502 which extends from a top of the body portion 310 through at least a portion of the fixing shaft receiving bores 375, 385. The locking shaft 502 is configured to lock the fixing shafts 350a, 360a of another fixation member 30a in the respective fixing shaft receiving bores 375, 385 when the locking shaft 502 is in a locked state. When the locking shaft 502 is in an unlocked state, the fixing shafts 350a, 360a can be inserted into or removed from the corresponding fixing shaft receiving bores 375, 385.

[0084] In one embodiment, referring to Figure 4, the fixation bracket 30 includes a locking shaft lever 504. The locking shaft lever 504 is connected to the locking shaft 502. The locking shaft lever 504 is configured to rotate or pivot the locking shaft 502 from a closed or locked position, as is shown in Figures 2 and 14, for example, to an open or un-locked position as is shown in the example of Figure 12.

[0085] Referring again to Figure 4, in one embodiment, a pin member 506 is inserted into corresponding openings 508 in the locking shaft lever 504 and openings 510 in the locking shaft 502 to secure the locking shaft lever 504 to the locking shaft 502. In alternate embodiments, the locking shaft lever 504 can be connected to the locking shaft 502 in any suitable manner.

[0086] The locking shaft 502 shown in Figure 4 is generally cylindrical in shape and configuration. In alternate embodiments, the locking shaft 502 can comprise any suitable geometric shape and configuration that will allow the locking shaft 502 to retain the fixing shafts 350, 360 of another fixation member 30a in place in the locked position of the locking shaft 502, and release the fixing shafts 350, 360 in an unlocked position of the locking shaft 502.

[0087] In the embodiment shown in Figures 4 and 12, the locking shaft 502 includes one or more detent or recessed areas 512. In the example of Figure 12, there are two detents 512, a lower detent 512a and an upper detent 512b. The detents 512a and 512b are configured to provide access or an area for respective fixing shafts 350a, 360a from the other fixation member 30a to pass by or through, when the fixing shafts 350a, 360a is inserted into a corresponding fixation shaft receiving bore 375, 385 of the fixation member 30. [0088] As shown in Figure 12, in one embodiment, the detents 512a and 512b have a square or rectangular shape. In alternate embodiments, the detents 512a and 512b can comprises any suitable shape, such as semi-circular, that can accommodate the generally cylindrical shape of the fixing shafts 350a, 360a and allow the respect shaft to slide by.

[0089] Referring to Figure 12, in this example the locking shaft member 502 is rotated or positioned to the unlocked or open state so that the detents 512a and 512b are facing the respective fixing shafts 350a and 350b. The clearance provided by the detents 512a, 512b enable the respective fixing shafts 350a and 350b to be inserted and removed from the respective fixing shaft receiver bores 375, 385.

[0090] As is shown in Figure 14, the locking shaft lever 504 is rotated to the locked or closed state. In this example, the detents 512a, 514b are facing away from the respective fixing shafts 350a, 350b. In this example, a portion of the locking shaft member 502 now engages the groove members 358a and 368a of the respective fixing shafts 350a, 350b. The engagement of the portions of the locking shaft member 502 in the respective fixing grooves 358a, 368a of the other fixing bracket 30a fixes or locks the fixing shafts 350a, 360a in the respective fixing shaft receivers bores 375, 385. As is shown in the example of Figure 8, in this manner on fixing bracket 30 is secured to another fixing bracket 30a.

[0091] Referring to Figures 9-11 , one embodiment of the second bracket or RRU mounting bracket 40 is illustrated. The RRU mounting bracket 40 generally comprises a locking handle member 400 and a base member 44. The locking handle member 400 is configured to rotate or pivot from an open or unlocked position as is shown in Figures 9 and 13, to a closed or locked position as is shown in Figures 10 and 14. The base member 44 is configured to be affixed or secured to the RRU 102. [0092] In one embodiment, the base member 44 generally comprises a body portion 410 that has a first side 412 and a second side 414. The first side 412 of the body portion 410 is configured to be affixed to the radio remote unit, also referred to as the radio resource unit 102. The second side 414 of the body portion 410 is configured to engage one or more of the lower flange member 330 and upper flange member 340 of the fixation bracket 30, as will be described herein. In one embodiment, the body portion 410 is an extruded aluminum body. In alternate embodiments, the body portion 410 of the RRU mounting bracket 40 can comprise any suitable material, other than including aluminum.

[0093] In the example of Figures 10 and 11 , the base member 44 includes one or more detent members 41 6, 418. The detent members 41 6, 418 are configured to engage corresponding openings 346, 348, shown in Figure 6, of the upper flange member 340 of the fixation bracket 30. The engagement of the detent member 41 6, 418 with the openings 346, 348 is configured to prevent the remote radio unit bracket 40 from sliding in the upper flange member 340 when the remote radio unit bracket 40 is engaged with the fixation bracket 30. In the example of Figure 10, the detent members 416, 418 have a semi-circular shape. In alternate embodiments, the detent members 41 6, 418 can comprise any suitable shape.

[0094] Figure 11 illustrates an assembly view of the RRU mounting bracket 40. In this example, a shaft member 406 is used to couple the handle portion 42 to the base member 44 by insertion of the shaft member into openings 414 in the base member 44 and opening 412 in the handle portion 42. One or more fastener member 408, such as screws, can be inserted into corresponding fastener openings 410 in the base member 404 to secure the RRU mounting bracket 40 to the RRU 102. It will be understood that the RRU 102 will include corresponding fastener openings to allow the fastener members 408 to secure the RRU mounting bracket 40 to the RRU 102.

[0095] In one embodiment, the RRU mounting bracket 40 includes one or more blade springs 420. In the example of Figure 11 , there are two blade springs 420, 421 . The blade springs 420, 421 include a locking edge 425 that is configured to engage a clamping edge 424 of the locking handle member 42. In one embodiment, the blade springs 420, 421 includes a retaining edge or member 422 that will engage the clamping edge 424 when the handle portion 42 is rotated to the locked to closed position as shown in Figure 12.

[0096] Figures 13 and 14 illustrate the engagement of the fixation bracket 30 and the RRU bracket 40. In this example, the fixation bracket 30 is secured to the base bracket 10 and the RRU bracket 40 is attached to the RRU 102. The fixation bracket 30 is secured to the base bracket 10 by a fixing mechanism, which in this example is a bolt 802. The base bracket 10 is secured to the pole 104.

[0097] Referring to Figures 12-14, the upper flange member 440 of the RRU mounting bracket 40 is configured to engage the upper flange member 340 of the fixation bracket 30. The lower flange member 430 of the RRU mounting bracket 40 is configured to engage the lower flange member 330 of the fixation bracket 30. As shown in Figure 14, the handle member 42 is then pivoted or rotated in the direction indicated by arrow R1 to lock the RRU bracket 40 to the fixation bracket 30.

[0098] Referring to Figures 5 and 10, in one embodiment, the locking handle member 400 includes a clamping edge member 424. The clamping edge member 424 of the locking handle member 400 is configured to engage a lip member or edge 350 of the fixation bracket 30 when the handle portion 42 is rotated to the locked position. As is illustrated in Figure 15, the exploded view of area E in Figure 14, the clamping edge 424 is disposed under the clamping lip or edge 426 when the handle portion 42 is rotated. The locking edge 425 prevents the locking handle member 400 from opening if an upward force is applied to the handle portion 42.

[0099] Referring to Figures 2, 5 and 6, in one embodiment, the fixing shafts 350, 360 and the fixing shaft receiving bores 375, 385 are offset from one another. As is shown in Figure 6, there are two fixing shafts 350, 360. The first or lower fixing shaft 350 is disposed in one corner area 602 of the first lateral 31 6 of the fixation bracket 30, while the second or upper fixing shaft 360 is disposed in an opposing corner area 604 of the first lateral side 31 6 of the fixation bracket 30.

[00100] In a similar manner, referring to Figure 5, the lower fixing shaft receiving bore 375 is disposed in corner region 606 while the upper fixing shaft receiving bore 385 is disposed in an opposing corner region 608.

[00101] In one embodiment, as is illustrated in Figure 12, the first fixing shaft 350a and the second fixing shaft 360a are configured to be disposed on opposite sides of the locking shaft member 502, when received in the respective fixing shaft receiving bores 375, 385. This embodiment provides stability for the mounting bracket assembly 100 when multiple RRU mounting bracket assemblies 20 are coupled together, as shown in Figure 1 .

[00102] Figures 1 6-21 illustrate one embodiment of the assembly of the bracket assembly 100. As illustrated in Figure 1 6, the base bracket 10 is coupled to the mounting structure 104, which in this example is a pole.

[00103] Referring to Figure 17, a first fixation bracket 302 is attached to the base bracket 10. In this example, a pair of bolts 802 are used to couple the fixation bracket 302 to the base bracket 10. In alternate embodiments, any suitable securing mechanism can be used to secure the fixing bracket to the base bracket 10. [00104] Figure 12 illustrates a pair of fixation brackets 301 , 302 secured together. In this example, the fixation brackets 301 and 302 are disposed in a side-by-side relationship. As described herein, the fixing shafts 350a, 360a of fixation bracket 301 are inserted into the respective fixing shaft receiving bores 375, 385 of fixation bracket 302... The levers 502, 502a of the respective fixation brackets 301 , 302 are shown in the closed and locked position. A bolt 802 is inserted into a corresponding aperture in the body portion of the fixing bracket 301 , while a bolt 804 is inserted into a corresponding aperture in the body portion of the fixing bracket 302. The bolts 802, 804 are secured to the base bracket 10. In this example, the fixing shafts of the fixing bracket 302 have been removed. End cap 806, 808 are used to cap the open holes on either end of the assembly 100 to provide a finished appearance.

[00105] In the example of Figure 18, both fixation bracket 301 and fixation bracket 302 are shown as be secured via respective bolts 802, 804 to the base bracket assembly 10. In alternate embodiments, only one of the fixation brackets 301 , 302 needs to be secured to the base bracket assembly 10. The other fixation brackets will engage with the fixation bracket that is secured to the base bracket assembly 10.

[00106] Figure 19 illustrates the attachment of the RRU mounting bracket 40 to the RRU 102. The locking handle member 42 of the RRU bracket 40 is in the unlocked or open position. This unlocked position allows the locking handle member 42 to be used to pick-up and transport the RRU 102.

[00107] In Figure 20, the RRU mounting bracket 40 is attached to the fixation bracket 30. In Figure 21 , the locking handle member 32 is moved to the locked position. [00108] The aspects of the disclosed embodiments provide for any suitable number of fixation brackets 30 to be mounted in a side-by-side configuration in order to secure other RRU's 102 to the mounting structure 104.

[00109] The mounting bracket assembly of the disclosed embodiments allows for the bracket assembly to be installed on walls and a wide range of poles. Up to six RRU's can be mounted in a blade configuration with individual replacement and installation/ expansion without impact to other already installed RRU's. The installation of an RRU to the mounting bracket assembly and the expansion and addition of another bracket does not require tools. Since the width of the installation is newer wider that the RRU's require (no protruding parts). The expansion locking mechanism enables the bracket modules to be connected to each other on both sides of a firstly installed bracket. The dual functionality of the locking handle enables the brackets to be locked to each other, stops RRUs' from being installed if the brackets are not fully locked.

[00110] Thus, while there have been shown, described and pointed out, fundamental novel features of the invention as applied to the exemplary embodiments thereof, it will be understood that various omissions, substitutions and changes in the form and details of devices and methods illustrated, and in their operation, may be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Further, it is expressly intended that all combinations of those elements, which perform the same function the same way to achieve the same results, are within the scope of the invention. Moreover, it should be recognized that structures and/or elements shown and/or described in connection with any disclosed form or embodiment of the invention may be incorporated in any other disclosed or described or suggested form or embodiment as a general matter of design choice. It is the intention, therefore, to be limited only as indicated by the scope of the claims appended hereto.