| WO/2008/104837 | STRUCTURE FOR SUPPORTING ELECTRIC POWER TRANSMISSION LINES |
| WO/2009/028092 | FLANGE JOINT FOR TUBULAR MEMBER |
| WO/2003/029582 | MULTIPLE-USE POST |
Schlesinger, Dan (28 HaShita Street Omer, 84965, IL)
Guzman, Yossi (11 Rudolf Bloch Street Ramot Beersheva, 84832, IL)
Marton, Yehudith (40/4 Tabenkin Street Beersheva, 84745, IL)
Simon, Zohar (14 Odem Street Alfey Menashe, 44851, IL)
Peleg, Guy (Shimah M.P. South Hebron, 90406, IL)
Schlesinger, Dan (28 HaShita Street Omer, 84965, IL)
Guzman, Yossi (11 Rudolf Bloch Street Ramot Beersheva, 84832, IL)
Marton, Yehudith (40/4 Tabenkin Street Beersheva, 84745, IL)
Simon, Zohar (14 Odem Street Alfey Menashe, 44851, IL)
| 1. | A communications pole for storing communications equipment in a cavity provided therein, comprising: a) an upper portion to support a set of antennas therein; b) a tubular lower portion having a maximum horizontal dimension gradually increasing in size from its upper extremity to its lower extremity; c) at least one storage chamber provided within said lower portion to store equipment therein; and d) a foundation for supporting said communications pole. |
| 2. | The communications pole of claim 1, wherein said lower portion is essentially conical. |
| 3. | The communications pole of claim 1, wherein said lower portion is partially hollow. |
| 4. | The communications pole of claim 1, wherein the vertical axis of said lower portion is coincident with that of said upper portion. |
| 5. | The communications pole of claim 1, wherein the communications pole has a height of at least 10 meters. |
| 6. | The communications pole of claim 5, wherein the communications pole has a height of at least 30 meters. |
| 7. | The communications pole of claim 1, wherein said lower portion has an ultimate compressive strength of at least 25 kpsi. |
| 8. | The communications pole of claim 7, wherein said lower portion is made of a material selected from carbon steel, stainless steel, titanium, aluminum and brass. |
| 9. | The communications pole of claim 1, wherein said lower portion consists of a plurality of storage chambers, each storage chamber includes at least one horizontally disposed flooring means attached to the inner wall of said lower portion. |
| 10. | The communications pole of claim 9, wherein some of said storage chambers are provided with a door and with a lock to protect equipment stored therein. |
| 11. | The communications pole of claim 9, wherein some of said storage chambers are provided with a vertically displaceable partition and with a lock to protect equipment stored therein. |
| 12. | The communications pole of claim 2, wherein said lower portion is comprised of a plurality of essentially conical interlocking elements, each interlocking element having a substantially identical angle with respect to the vertical axis, whereby one interlocking element adjacent and below another corresponding interlocking element will have a larger maximum horizontal distance. |
| 13. | The communications pole of claim 12, wherein the vertical axis of each interlocking element is mutually coincident. |
| 14. | The communications pole of claim 13, wherein the inner wall of one interlocking element abuts the outer wall of its adjacent lower interlocking element. |
| 15. | The communications pole of claim 1, wherein each storage chamber is disposed at least 0.1 meter above ground level. |
| 16. | The communications pole of claim 1, wherein the foundation protrudes from the ground level. |
| 17. | The communications pole of claim 16, wherein the foundation protrudes from ground level from 0.13 meters. |
| 18. | The communications pole of claim 16, wherein the foundation horizontally extends from said lower portion up to 2 meters. |
| 19. | The communications pole of claim 16, wherein the foundation includes concrete poured into the interior of said lower portion. |
| 20. | The communications pole of claim 1, wherein electrical and communications cables for operation of equipment stored within said communications pole are laid subterraneously and pass through the foundation. |
| 21. | The communications pole of claim 1, wherein a detection and warning system is provided within the interior of said lower portion. |
| 22. | The communications pole of claim 21, wherein said detection and warning system is provided with a means of automatic dialing to report a newly detected fire. |
| 23. | A communications pole, substantially as described and illustrated. |
Background of the Invention Communication systems for cellular telephones, or for other wireless communication systems, are located at communication sites, which in many cases cannot be well protected. These sites usually include a pole used for mounting antennas, an additional area to store the electronic equipment needed to transmit and receive signals, and an air conditioning system to cool the electronic equipment when overheated.
The existing technology requires a relatively large land allotment so that the aforementioned equipment may be situated in the proximity of the communication pole. Accordingly a significant sum must be expended to provide the groundwork for the storing of this equipment such as land leveling, construction of an enclosure, and fencing of the allotted area. In some sites this equipment is left outdoors, and a watchman may be needed to prevent acts of theft and vandalism. Such communication sites found in urban or populated areas are considered to be unesthetic.
U. S. Patent 5,581,958 to Cote discloses a communications pole for cellular telephone usage that includes an integral cabinet for storing electrical equipment with a door that may be locked. Many electrical poles are constructed from separate subsections that are simply nested one on top of the other, as is well known to those skilled in the art. The communications pole of Cote, in contrast, is not easily assembled, and requires a skilled worker to assemble the non-uniform components. Inasmuch as this construction improves the esthetic appearance of the communications site and minimizes the groundwork, nevertheless the structure has a non-tapered construction comprising a hollow cabinet and a tubular pole, a construction which detracts from its physical appearance.
Furthermore, the communications pole is made from fiberglass, and the electrical equipment may therefore be vandalized with a minimal amount of effort.
Some users of cellular phone units have unreliable service in a surrounding region characterized by drastic changes in height, viz. in mountainous areas or in an urban setting where the tall buildings block the promulgation of electromagnetic waves which effect the communication. To improve the quality of the transmission and reception communication poles for cellular telephone applications are needed to be of a height of at least 24 meters. Many communication poles have a height of 30 meters, and in some cases even 50 meters. The constraint of a communications pole having a height of at least 24 meters limits the effectiveness of the communications pole of Cote since the bending strength of fiberglass does not warrant a pole with such a height. During conditions of high wind turbulence, i. e. when the wind velocity reaches at least 40 m/sec, a fiberglass pole will deflect above allowable limits, causing disturbances in transmission.
It is an object of the present invention to provide a communications pole that provides effective communication without interference with users in a surrounding region characterized by drastic changes in height.
It is an additional object of the present invention to provide a communications pole that has the necessary rigidity to eliminate extreme deflections caused by high wind turbulence.
It is an additional object of the present invention to provide a communications pole that prevents acts of vandalism to the various types of electrical, communication and air conditioning equipment.
It is an additional object of the present invention to provide a communications pole that may be simply and inexpensively assembled.
It is a further object of the present invention to provide a communications pole with an improved esthetic appearance.
It is a further object of the present invention to provide a communications pole that reduces expenditures for land purchasing, leveling and fencing of the allotted area.
Other objects and advantages of the invention will become apparent as the description proceeds.
Summary of the Invention The invention relates to a communications pole for storing communications equipment in a cavity provided therein, comprising: a) an upper portion to support a set of antennas therein; b) a tubular lower portion having a maximum horizontal dimension gradually increasing in size from its upper extremity to its lower extremity; c) at least one storage chamber provided within said lower portion to store equipment therein; and d) a foundation for supporting said lower portion.
The communications pole is at least 10 meters high, and preferably at least 30 meters high. Said lower portion is made of a material selected from carbon steel, stainless steel, titanium, aluminum and brass, having an ultimate compressive strength of at least 25 kpsi. In one embodiment the pole is manufactured from one integral unit. In a preferred embodiment, the pole may be prefabricated from several elements, one nesting on top of the other, to facilitate simple and inexpensive construction The upper elements are similar in shape to the lower ones; however, one element adjacent and below another corresponding element will have a larger maximum horizontal dimension so that the entire communication pole structure will have a tapered cone-shaped construction.
The interior of. the pole is hollow. At various predetermined levels a flooring means is provided, defining storage chambers. The storage chambers may be provided with a door, made from a material similar to the exterior of the pole, or with a vertically displaceable partition, that will be locked thereby protecting the equipment stored within the interior of the pole from acts of vandalism.
The bottom flooring level is situated close to ground level for easy operator access. Alternatively the bottom flooring level may be situated at a certain height above ground level to provide added protection. In another embodiment the foundation may protrude above ground level.
The upper portion of the pole, in close proximity to the antennas, may be covered in such a way so as to enhance the physical appearance of the pole. A preferred embodiment of the upper portion includes a shell whose horizontal section is constructed in the shape of a polygon, with each side of the polygon being diagonally disposed. The conical shape of the upper portion and of the entire pole lends itself to a structure befitting urban renewal projects. Advertisements may be mounted on the sides of the pole or on the sides of the upper portion. Lighting apparatus may be provided to illuminate the advertisements when dark.
Brief Description of the Drawings The above and other characteristics and advantages of the invention will be better understood through the following illustrative and non-limitative detailed description of preferred embodiments thereof, with reference to the appended drawings, wherein: Fig. 1 illustrates a perspective view of the communications pole according to one embodiment of the invention.
Fig. 2 illustrates a side view of the communications pole according to another embodiment of the invention.
Fig. 3 illustrates a side view of the communications pole according to another embodiment of the invention and a cross-sectional view of its upper portion, cut along plane A-A of Figure 1.
Fig. 4 (a) illustrates a cross-sectional view of the communications pole, cut along plane B-B of Figure 3.
Fig. 4 (b) illustrates a cross-sectional view of another alternative of the communications pole, cut along plane B-B of Figure 3.
Fig. 5 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the lower portion of the communications pole cut along plane C-C of Figure 4.
Fig. 6 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the communications pole, cut along plane D-D of Figure 3.
Fig. 7 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the communications pole, cut along plane E-E of Figure 3.
Fig. 8 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the communications pole, cut along plane F-F of Figure 3.
Fig. 9 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the communications pole, cut along plane G-G of Figure 3.
Figure 10 is a photograph of the lower portion of the communications pole including typical equipment disposed within a storage chamber and the staircase leading thereto.
Figure 11 is an illustrative photograph of the entire communications pole.
Detailed Description of Preferred Embodiments Fig. 1 shows communications pole 1, according to one embodiment of the invention, comprising lower portion 10 and upper portion 40 having mutually coincident vertical axes. Storage portion 20 is located within lower portion 10.
Lower portion 10 is supported by foundation 30.
As shown, lower portion 10 is comprised of a plurality of sides 3 structured in such a fashion that lower portion 10 is essentially conically shaped, i. e. its maximum horizontal dimension gradually increases in size from its upper extremity to its lower extremity. For example, the maximum horizontal dimension of the upper extremity of lower portion 10 ranges from 0.5 to 2.0 meters, depending on the desired application, while the maximum horizontal dimension of the lower extremity ranges from 1.5 to 6.0 meters. A profile of the communications pole, i. e. a vertical cross section, may be linear, curved relative to its vertical axis, or of any other irregular shape to provide an esthetic appearance. Despite the high bending stress induced by wind and by the weight of the structure, communications pole 1 will not topple due to its conical shape and the material with which it was produced. The essentially conical shape of the communications pole provides additional rigidity to the structure, as winds are stronger at a higher elevation, and the wider base effectively distributes any induced bending stress.
Sides 3, in addition to establishing the desired height of communications pole 1, are optionally also utilized for the mounting of advertisement panels 2 thereon.
Communications pole 1 is at least 10 meters high, and preferably 24-30, or even as high as 50 meters to transmit and receive signals without interference. Sides 3, having a thickness of at least 6 mm are made from a rigid material, such as carbon steel, stainless steel, aluminum, titanium and brass having an ultimate compressive strength of at least 25 kpsi. Sides 3 may be durable for a temperature range of-30°C to +180°C, as well as preferably being bullet-, explosion-and fire-proof. A fire or smoke detection and warning system is provided within the interior of lower portion 10, and may be provided with automatic dialing, upon activation, to report the newly detected fire.
Lower portion 10 is hollow thereby enabling equipment to be stored within the interior of sides 3. The interior of sides 3 is thermally insulated, and various types of electronic equipment needed for state of the art communication are stored within the interior of the pole without being subjected to sharp fluctuations in temperature. The height of the pole is utilized whereby storage portion 20 is comprised of a plurality of flooring means 25 horizontally disposed defining storage chambers 27. Each of flooring means 25 is rigidly connected to sides 3, e. g. by welding, by pins, screws, or by any other method well known to those skilled in the art. Flooring means 25 must be sturdy enough to support the various types of equipment disposed within the respective storage chambers and weighing as much as 500 kg. The equipment may be stored on several separate levels, and the height of the communications pole will therefore be effectively utilized. Air conditioning systems may be installed to control the temperature within storage chambers 27, and a conduit provided within storage area 20, along the interior of sides 3, through which pass cables and pipes also enables the passage of air from one level to another.
The storage chambers may be provided with at least one steel door 21, each of which may be locked with lock 22. The doors may furthermore be remotely and electrically opened from within the interior of lower portion 10. Each door 21 has a different size and shape to accommodate the requirements of the type of equipment to be stored. Doors 21 are preferably provided with a seal to prevent the infiltration of water and dust, thereby ensuring the reliable operation of the electronic and air conditioning equipment. Alternatively the storage chambers may be closed with vertically displaceable woven-wire grille or sectional steel partitions (not shown). These partitions may be vertically displaced manually, by means of a crank or by means of a motor. When completely lowered the partitions may be locked to prevent trespassers from entering the storage areas. A thin envelope of air (not shown) pressurized at 0.5-10 atmospheres may be provided within the inner wall of sides 3. The equipment is stored in storage chambers 27 in such a disposition to enable ample access area for the installation and maintenance of the equipment. Alternatively, maintenance may be performed outside the storage chambers 27.
Fig. 1 represents a preferred embodiment of the invention in which storage area 20 is high enough above ground level, preferably at least 3 meters, to prevent a trespasser from reaching doors 21. The equipment stored in storage chambers 27 will thereby be protected from vandalism when each door 21 is effectively locked with lock 22. A maintenance worker or operator is raised to door 21 by a crane, ladder or by any other lifting device.
Another embodiment is shown in Fig. 2 in which storage area 39 is located substantially close to the bottom extremity of lower portion 34. Foundation 38, instead of being placed underneath ground level 33, is provided to protrude from the ground level, from a height of 0.1-3 meters and horizontally extending from lower portion 34 up to 2 meters, to prevent a trespasser from reaching doors 39.
A platform may be provided (not shown) on the foundation on which the maintenance worker may place a piece of equipment to be repaired or maintained. Alternatively, concrete may be poured within the interior of the communications pole (not shown), within the lower end thereof, until a maximum height of 5 meters above ground level, to provide added structural support. To efficiently and compactly utilize the interior of the communications pole, electrical and communications cables for operation of equipment stored therein may be subterraneously laid and pass through foundation 38 before connection with the equipment.
Another embodiment is shown in Fig. 3 in which storage area 20 is located close enough to ground level 29, i. e. no less than 0.1 m, so that a maintenance worker will have easy access to doors 21 without usage of any ladder. Ladder 13 is used to climb from storage area 20 to upper portion 40.
According to one embodiment, lower portion 10 may be fabricated from one integral unit. Sides 3 are therefore smooth and continuous, without any protrusions, handles or jagged edges, which may provide a trespasser with a means of hoisting himself to storage area 20. In a preferred embodiment, lower portion 10 may be prefabricated from several interconnecting elements, up to approximately 12 elements, one nesting on top of the other as shown in Fig. 5, to facilitate simple and inexpensive construction. An upper interconnecting element 5 is similar in shape to a lower interconnecting element 7, whether sides 3 have a polygonal cross-section as Fig. 4 (a) or a circular cross-section as in Fig. 4 (b).
However, one interconnecting element adjacent and below another corresponding element will have a larger outer and inner diameter (in reference to Fig. 4 (a) circumscribing and inscribed in the polygonal cross-section, respectively) so that the entire communication pole structure will have a tapered cone-shaped construction. During assembly, a crane lowers an upper interconnecting element 5 onto a lower interconnecting element 7 whereby inner wall 4 of upper interconnecting element 5 is in rubbing contact with outer wall 6 of lower interconnecting element 7. After being lowered to a maximum displacement, upper interconnecting element 5 is fixed in place.
Upper portion 40, as shown in Fig. 3, includes antennas 43, which are supported by antenna support 41. Anchor bolts support antennas 43, which are affixed to pole elements (not shown) fixedly connected to antenna support 41 by stiffeners, as is well known to those skilled in the art. Upper portion 40 is connected to lower portion 10, e. g. by bolts and/or by welding or by any other tapered connection. Communication cables pass through the hollow interior of lower portion 10 to be connected with antennas 43. A preferred embodiment of upper portion 40 includes fiberglass shell 48 whose horizontal section is constructed by example in the shape of a polygon, with each side of the polygon being diagonally disposed in respect to the vertical axis of lower portion 10. Alternatively shell 48 may be constructed from any other suitable material known in the art with locked doors (not shown) for added protection. Illumination elements 45, as well as a clock, loudspeaker, siren and electronic eye (not shown), may be affixed to fiberglass shell 48. The siren may function as a regional alert for incidents requiring unusual precautions, and may be activated through the cellular telephone network. The electronic eye may include a unit for distant viewing and for video recording the surrounding area. Upper portion 40 includes platform 47 to facilitate installation and maintenance of antennas 43 and illumination elements 45. Fiberglass advertising panels 42 and 49 may be used as well.
Various types of electronic equipment needed for state of the art transmission and reception including CDMA, IDS, power supply, circuit board, batteries, and monitor are stored within the interior of the pole. The height of the pole is utilized whereby one type of equipment is stored in chambers one on top of another. Air conditioning equipment such as a compressor and air ducts are provided to prevent the overheating of the electronic equipment. Simple entry to the various levels is provided so that the equipment may be simply installed and maintained.
Examples of the storage capabilities of the communications pole are illustrated in Figures 6-10. Storage chamber 50 (Fig. 6) houses compressors 51, which are provided with an air intake (not shown). The compressors are secured to flooring 53 and are encompassed by fiberglass advertising panel 49. Storage chamber 54 (Fig. 3) is not in use, and will be able to store future equipment that will be procured. Storage chamber 55 (Fig. 7) houses air conditioners 57, which prevents the overheating of the electronic equipment and heat distributors 58 (Fig. 3), which serve to prevent excessive cooling of the equipment. Storage chamber 60 includes electrical cabinet 61, eight batteries 63 and interface device (IDF) 64, which enables an operator to monitor and maintain the mobile telephone system (Fig. 8). Wireless air interface 67 based on code division multiple access technology (CDMA) and power supply 68 are provided in storage chamber 66 (Fig. 9). It is needless to say that the equipment may be stored in any desired storage chamber, in any particular distribution, depending on preferred design and maintenance considerations.
Fig. 10 is a photograph of storage chamber 60, which is accessed by a staircase.
The equipment is protected against vandalism by the locking of its door. The different types of equipment are shown to be efficiently stacked in close proximity of one to another. Fiberglass panel 49, encircling the communications pole, is shown to be located above storage chamber 60.
Fig. 11 shows the esthetic nature of the communications pole and its compatibility with the surrounding area. Natural vegetation such as grass, flowers and trees may be planted in the surrounding area of the communications pole to enhance the appearance thereof. The photograph illustrates an embodiment not having any additional fiberglass panels.
The above examples and description have of course been provided only for the purpose of illustration, and are not intended to limit the invention in any way. As will be appreciated by the skilled person, the invention can be carried out in a great variety of ways, employing more than one technique from those described above, all without exceeding the scope of the invention.