Field of the invention

The invention relates to the provision of bases for poles, such as wooden utility poles and like supports used for holding electric distribution and transmission lines, and methods of providing or replacing the bases of existing poles (pole base replacement).

Background of the invention

A utility pole is a column or post used to support overhead power lines, telecommunication cables and various other public utilities, such as electrical cable, fiber optic cable, and related equipment such as transformers and street lights. Being outdoors and having their lower ends buried underground, the wooden pole (variety of which there are concrete, steel, fibre glass and other types) are exposed to various environmental conditions, such as fire, lighting, as well as being prone to deterioration from insects and fungi and the like leading to loss of timber fibre strength with rot being the predominate cause. Over time, these conditions damage and weaken the pole, making them unsafe for continued use. It is known that the lower part of the pole is most susceptible to the above issues due to its positioning at or below ground level.

In the past, the entire pole would be replaced or reinforced, e g. with steel stakes, when the timber has deteriorated to a level that is deemed unreliable for operational purposes. Attempts have been made to treat the poles by impregnating them with a type of preservative against the above stated issues in order to prolong the operational life of the pole. However, these attempts provide limited extension of useful life of the pole.

There have been known attempts to provide other means of reinforcement to existing poles. For example, US 4,779,389 discloses a method of reinforcing a section of a wooden pole by mounting an elongate sleeve around the section of the pole.

Methods have also been developed in which the base of the pole is cut off and replaced by a new, pre-made base. This is generally referred to in the art as pole rebutting. An example of a pole rebutting method is disclosed in US 5,022,134.

Despite the above disclosures, there still exists a need to provide an effective pole base replacement method that can be carried out at a reasonable cost. It is desired that the pole base replacement method ameliorate at least one of the known issues that affect poles, particularly utility poles that are partly buried in the ground, or provide a useful alternative for the public.

Reference to any prior art in the specification is not an acknowledgment or suggestion that this prior art forms part of the common general knowledge in any jurisdiction or that this prior art could reasonably be expected to be understood, regarded as relevant, and/or combined with other pieces of prior art by a skilled person in the art.

Summary of the invention

In a first aspect, the present invention provides a pole base replacement method, comprising: removing a bottom portion of an existing pole; installing a first portion of a support assembly at least partially in the ground; and supporting an upper portion of the pole by at least the first portion and one or more second portions of the support assembly, wherein the first and one or more second portions of the support assembly collectively circumnavigate the upper portion of the pole.

The present invention thereby provides a convenient pole replacement method that does not require physical removal and replacement of an existing pole. Instead, only the bottom portion of the pole is removed, and then replaced by the support assembly, whereby the support assembly supports the upper portion of the pole.

In an embodiment, the method further comprises holding the upper portion of the pole stationary whilst said removal and said installing is taking place. Preferably, this extends to cutting of the pole. Said holding of the upper portion of the pole may include providing additional support for the upper portion of the pole along with the support provided by the support assembly.

Advantageously, this embodiment of the invention allows for holding of the upper portion of the pole whilst the removal and installing are taking place. In other words, the upper portion of the pole can be held substantially stationary, for example, by a grappling device, throughout most or all of the pole base replacement method, or at least until the upper portion of the pole is supported by the first portion and one or more second portions. This ensures that the upper portion of the pole does not appreciably move during the conducting of the method. This is particularly of importance for poles that already include previously installed elements, such as live high voltage power lines or other electrical equipment or devices, because the method enables the bottom portion of the pole to be removed and replaced without causing any disruption to any transmission of power or functionality of the equipment or devices.

In an embodiment, said removing of the bottom portion of the pole includes excavating around the existing pole, cutting the bottom portion of the pole, and pulling the bottom portion out of the ground.

In an embodiment, before said installing of the first portion of the support assembly, the method further comprises arranging a packer about a part of the upper portion of the pole, the packer thereby at least partly surrounding the upper portion of the pole and defining a space between the part of the upper portion of the pole and the packer. The packer may take the form of framework or foundation structure which at least partly surrounds the upper portion of the pole. The method may further comprise inserting one or more packing elements into the space between the upper portion of the pole and the framework or foundation structure. The packing elements may be affixed to the pole. The framework or foundation structure may be in the form of a template, intended to be temporary and the method may further include removing the template. However, the template could also be a sacrificial template. Preferably, the packing elements are provided as discrete elements. The arranging of the packer may be performed before said removing or alternatively after said removing and before said installing.

One advantage of this embodiment is that it allows the support assembly to be snugly, or in some cases tightly, installed with the upper portion of the pole. A typical issue when the bottom portion of the pole is removed (particularly with wooden poles), is that the outer diameter of the upper pole is circumferentially uneven along its length. The use of the template, which has an inner circumference approximately commensurate with the inner circumference of the support assembly (which may be a more evenly cylindrical shape), allows for the insertion of one or more packing elements that allows the part of the upper portion of the pole, in combination with said packing element(s), to assume a shape that allows for a more snug or tight fit with the support assembly when the support assembly is installed. In other words, the use of the template ensures that the pole assumes a substantially precise outer boundary defined by the packing elements which is commensurate with the internal circumference of the support assembly. This ensures that an equal uniform pressure and load transfer occurs between the pole and the support assembly. Preferably, the inner diameter of the template is substantially equal to the inner diameter of the support assembly. Such a configuration means that when the support assembly is installed around the part of the upper portion of the pole, the packing element(s) are pushed towards the pole to facilitate the snug fit. In an alternative embodiment, the inner diameter of the template may be sufficiently larger than the inner diameter of the support assembly, such that the boundary defined by the packing elements creates a compression fit of the support assembly around the pole and packing elements.

In another embodiment, a sacrificial template may be provided whereby the outer circumference is commensurate with the inner circumference of the support assembly. In this embodiment, the sacrificial template remains on the upper portion of the pole. Packing elements may also be used in conjunction with the sacrificial template.

A further advantage can be explained with reference to some prior art solutions, which utilise a filler material to fill space between the pole and an adjacent support. Such a solution does not allow the pole, in many cases wood, to breathe and release moisture, thus leading to an increased risk of moisture build-up and/or water collection around the pole. This will cause the underlying pole to deteriorate, ultimately requiring full replacement of the pole. Conversely, this embodiment of the invention provides a snug fit between the pole and the support assembly using the packing elements, which provides enough space between the pole and support assembly to prevent pooling of fluid between the support assembly and the pole.

Further, the packing elements, by way of their form, generally provided as discrete suitably shaped and sized members, do not trap any moisture. In other words, the packing elements do not promote moisture retention about the pole, which could otherwise occur if the pole was surrounded by a filler material.

The one or more packing elements can take any suitable form known in the art. For example, the packing element may be one or more pieces of plastic, metal, rubber, polymer, etc. One of the main requirements of the packing element is that it allows for easy removal of the template after the packing elements have been inserted and that they are durable. Each packing element may be horseshoe shaped. Each packing element applied to the upper portion may be drawn from a range of available sizes to suit the gap to be filled. Any of the features described below in regard to other aspects of the invention, may also have application with this aspect of the invention.

In a second aspect, the present invention provides a support assembly for supporting a pole, comprising: an elongate first portion extending between a proximal end for insertion into the ground and a distal end having a cutout or recess for at least partially receiving a part of the pole; and one or more second portions, wherein the first and one or more second portions are adapted to be fixed together to define a collar and wherein the first portion and/or the one or more second portions is/are configured to allow passage of fluid away from the pole.

Advantageously, a support assembly is provided that can support the pole above the ground, thereby acting as the base of the pole. Thus, installation of a new pole can be achieved by installing the pole in conjunction with the support assembly or providing the support assembly for use with an existing pole. This means that many environmental conditions that often cause deterioration of the pole are mitigated by having a support assembly that is made to withstand or provide greater tolerance of the environmental conditions.

A further advantage of the present invention is that it mitigates the onset of rot or other deterioration of the pole by providing a support for the pole that allows fluid to move or drain away from the pole. This is particularly beneficial as the pole will be exposed to environmental conditions, such as rain or heat, which can otherwise lead to an accumulation of moisture around the pole.

The one or more second portions may be in the form of arcuate shells or bands, for example, two or more arcuate shells or bands.

In an embodiment, the first portion is provided at least partly located within the ground after installation, and the one or more second portions are provided wholly above the ground after installation. This can be beneficial as access to the pole, e.g. for inspection purposes, can be gained above ground by simply disconnecting one or more second portions from the first portion.

In an embodiment, the first portion and the one or more second portions include complementary flange portions to facilitate connection between the first and the one or more second portions. Having complementary connecting profiles improves ease of assembly and provides a more aesthetic final product. In a further embodiment, the first portion comprises a substantially hollow tubular section having a cut-out section at its distal end, and the sole second portion comprises a half tubular channel sized to fit in a complementary manner in the cut-out section of the first portion.

In an embodiment, the first portion includes a plurality of internal spaced apart fins which allow for the seating of the pole and provide passage of fluid away from the pole through the spaces thereof. Preferably, the fins assist the placement of a plurality of packing elements at the bottom of the pole. The fins may also provide support for a mesh screen configured to allow fluid, such as water, to pass through, and prevent a packing element from falling beyond the fins towards a bottom end of the first portion. This can also ensure that the pole is sufficiently packed with the packing elements towards the base of the pole.

In an embodiment, the support assembly further includes a drainage system configured to expel fluid that enters the support assembly. The drainage system may include a catchment configured to direct fluid out of the support assembly. The catchment is preferably located below the fins, and the fluid is preferably directed towards a discharge port in the support assembly (for example, an opening in the first portion) that is in fluid communication with the catchment. Advantageously, water ingress that may otherwise damage the pole if retained can be expelled from the support assembly, thereby reducing possible damage caused by the water to the pole or to the support assembly. For example, fluid can flow down the support assembly, beyond the fins, and into the catchment.

The catchment is preferably in the form of a collection bowl sealingly connected about its periphery to the first portion. Such sealing connection prevents fluid from travelling further down the support assembly, where it could cause corrosion or other deteriorative effects to the support assembly, and also acts as a pest barrier between ground and the pole. The fluid can be directed, e.g. by a suitable slope formed in the collection bowl, from the catchment to the discharge port and out of the support assembly.

Any of the features described below in regard to other aspects of the invention, may also have application with this aspect of the invention. In a third aspect, there is provided a method of using a template in a pole base replacement method, the template facilitating the installation of a support assembly, which acts as a base and thereby supports an existing pole, the method comprising: arranging a template about at least a portion of the existing pole, the inner diameter of the template and the outer diameter of the corresponding portion of the pole defining a space therebetween; inserting one or more packing elements onto the portion of the pole based on the arranged template, thereby filling at least part of the space and at least in part, defining a boundary which is commensurate in external periphery with an internal periphery of the support assembly; and securing the support assembly about the portion of the pole.

The method may further include removal of the template. In such a scenario, the outer surface of the packing elements form the boundary which is commensurate in its external periphery with the internal periphery of the support assembly. Alternatively, the template may be a sacrificial template which remains in place. In such an embodiment, the external periphery of the sacrificial template forms the boundary which is commensurate with the internal periphery of the support assembly. Either the packing elements or the sacrificial template defines the boundary in part because the spacing of the packing elements or the design of the sacrificial template does not define a complete boundary such as a cylindrical surface, but rather define a matrix of surfaces which on extrapolation define the boundary.

Advantageously, the use of the removable template in the pole replacement method allows for improved installation of the support assembly. In effect, the removable template mimics the support assembly, thereby providing an indication of the fit between the pole and the support assembly before the support assembly is secured to the pole. This allows packing elements to be provided in certain regions of the pole, particularly those that may be narrower relative to the support assembly. The packing elements allow a more uniform circumference of the pole to be established for securement of the support assembly.

The support assembly could have any of the features described above. The method could also include any of the method steps described above.

In a fourth aspect, there is provided a pole base replacement kit, comprising: the support assembly as defined above in accordance with the second aspect of the invention or as defined below in accordance with the sixth aspect of the invention; and a template including a frame for surrounding the pole, the internal periphery of the frame being predetermined so as to be commensurate with the internal periphery of the support assembly.

The kit may include one or more packing elements.

In an embodiment, the internal diameter of the assembled support assembly is less than the outer diameter of the pole with packing elements, thereby providing for a compression fit that pushes the packing elements onto the pole when the support assembly is secured to the pole.

In an embodiment, the template comprises a first segment and a second segment, wherein the first and second segments when attached together substantially surround the portion of the pole.

In a fifth aspect, there is provided a pole base replacement method for replacing a base of an existing pole, including: while holding an upper portion of the pole substantially stationary, removing a bottom portion of the pole and installing a support assembly to support the upper portion of the pole.

The pole may be held stationary by a grappler. Any of the other actions described above in connection with foregoing aspects of the invention may be conducted while the upper portion of the pole is held substantially stationary. For example, the template may be positioned and the packing elements added while holding the upper portion of the pole substantially stationary.

Holding the pole substantially stationary throughout the entire pole base replacement procedure ensures that the operation of powerlines and/or equipment associated with the pole is able to continue. Additionally, this increases safety for the workers during the procedure.

In accordance with a sixth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a support assembly for supporting a pole wherein the support assembly is configured to allow passage of fluid away from the pole. In other words, the support assembly may be designed to allow drainage. Any of the drainage features described above in connection with foregoing aspects may have application to this aspect of the invention.

As used herein, except where the context requires otherwise, the term "comprise" and variations of the term, such as "comprising", "comprises" and "comprised", are not intended to exclude further additives, components, integers or steps.

Further aspects of the present invention and further embodiments of the aspects described in the preceding paragraphs will become apparent from the following description, given by way of example and with reference to the accompanying drawings.

Brief description of the drawings

Figure 1 illustrates a perspective view of a support assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 2 illustrates an exploded perspective view of a first member and a second member of the support assembly;

Figure 3 illustrates a perspective partially sectioned view of the first member of Figure 2 illustrating components within;

Figure 4 illustrates a perspective view of a template arranged about a pole in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 5 illustrates an exploded perspective view of Figure 4;

Figure 6 is a plan view of the template arranged about the pole Figure 4;

Figure 7 is a front view of the template arranged about the pole Figure 4;

Figure 8 is a side view of the template arranged about the pole Figure 4;

Figure 9 is a perspective view of a pole, held by a grappler, that is to be replaced in accordance with a method of one embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 10 is a perspective view of an excavation step in accordance with a method of one embodiment of the present invention; Figure 1 1 is a perspective view of a cutting step in accordance with a method of one embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 12 is a perspective view of a step of assembling a template about the pole in accordance with a method of one embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 13 is a perspective view of a step of removing part of the template in accordance with a method of one embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 14 is a perspective view of a step of removing the whole template in accordance with a method of one embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 15 is a perspective view of a step of placing a first member of a support assembly about the pole in accordance with a method of one embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 16 is a perspective view of a step of seating pole on the first member of the support assembly in accordance with a method of one embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 17 is a perspective view of a step of aligning a second member of the support assembly with the first member in accordance with a method of one embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 18 is a perspective view of a step of connecting the second member of the support assembly with the first member in accordance with a method of one embodiment of the present invention; and

Figure 19 is a perspective view of a step of backfilling the ground about the support assembly in accordance with a method of one embodiment of the present invention.

Detailed description of the embodiments

It will be understood that the invention disclosed and defined in this specification extends to all alternative combinations of two or more of the individual features mentioned or evident from the text or drawings. All of these different combinations constitute various alternative aspects of the invention. With reference to Figure 1 , there is provided a support assembly 10 (which may also be referred to as a pole splice assembly) that may form all or part of a pole base replacement structure for an existing pole (not shown). In the context of the pole base replacement method to be described, the pole will be understood as being an upper portion of an original pole, which has had a bottom portion (not shown) thereof removed as part of a pole base replacement method. Thus, references to the pole, unless specified otherwise, or would otherwise be clear to a person skilled in the art, is a reference to the upper portion of the pole that remains after removal of the bottom portion. The support assembly 10 therefore acts as a replacement base for the pole. However, it will also be appreciated that the support assembly 10 may be provided as a base for a new pole.

The support assembly 10 comprises a first member 20 and a second member 30, which when fixed together form the support assembly 10, which surrounds a portion of the pole. The support assembly 10 supports the weight of the pole and acts as the replacement base for the pole in the pole base replacement method to be described below.

Reference is now made to Figure 2, whereby the first member 20, also herein referred to as a post assembly, is shown separated from the second member 30. It is to be noted that the entirety of the post assembly 20 is not shown in Figure 2, as the post assembly can be longer than depicted. The post assembly 20 comprises a substantially hollow tubular section 21 extending longitudinally between a proximal end 23 and a distal end 24, having in addition a cut-out section at the distal end 24 defining a half-collar 29. The half-collar 29 includes a semi-cylindrical or half tubular section, and defines an area for the fixation of the second member 30. To this end, extending from the peripheral edges of the half-collar 29 are flange portions 22 that together form a first connecting portion 25. The flange portions 22 include a pair of longitudinally extending flange portions and a single arcuate shaped portion extending transversely between the longitudinal flange portions 22. The flange portions 22 are provided at the peripheral edges of the half-collar 29 in any suitable manner known in the art. For example, the flange portions 22 may be welded to the peripheral edges of the half-collar 29. In another example, the flange portions 22 may be cast as part of the whole post assembly 20. The flange portions 22 include a plurality of apertures 26 for receiving fastening elements as shown.

A base plate 14 (Figure 3) is provided at the proximal-most end of the post assembly 20 to close off a substantial portion of the substantially hollow tubular section 21 . The base plate 14 covers the proximal end of the substantially hollow tubular section 21 so that when the substantially hollow tubular section 21 is positioned in the ground, the base plate 14 acts as the lowest bearing surface with the ground. This prevents the circumferential wall of the proximal-most end of the substantially hollow tubular section 21 digging further into the ground over time.

Lifting points (not shown) are provided on the post assembly 20 at locations between the proximal end 23 and distal end 24, which allows the post assembly 20 to be carried to the desired installation location and positioned about the pole. The lifting points may be in the form of hex nuts, spaced at opposite circumferential sides of the post assembly 20. Alternative lifting arrangements may be provided, e.g. eyelets, and can be provided at any convenient location along the post assembly 20.

Post assembly 20 also includes a plurality of fins 27 (Figure 3), which are mounted transversely inside the tubular section 21. The fins 27 are positioned towards the distal end 24 of the tubular section 21 , and are located below the arcuate flange portion. Further benefits provided by the fins 27 will be discussed in greater detail below.

As best shown in Figure 3, the post assembly 20 includes a drainage system, which is configured to remove water that has entered the support assembly 10. This can occur because the pole and the surrounding support assembly 10 are exposed to conditions such as rain, which can lead to water ingress into support assembly 10. The drainage system includes a circular perforated sheet 52, which sits on fins 27, and allows water that enters into the support assembly 10 to pass therethrough to catchment 54. Catchment 54 is in the form of a bent or diametrically folded disk, having its lowest most point at its centre, and is fixed within the tubular 21 at a slight decline along its diameter, the end of the decline leading to a drain hole 56 (Figure 1 and 2). Thus, when water passes through perforated sheet 52, the water will gather in catchment 54 and be led out because of the decline towards the drain hole 56. It is noted that catchment 54 is sealingly fitted within tubular 21 , thereby preventing water from travelling proximally (downwardly) beyond catchment 54. This ensures that proximal parts of the post assembly 20 are not exposed to the water, thereby reducing the likelihood of corrosion or other deteriorative effects to the post assembly 20. Further, catchment 54 also acts as a pest barrier between ground and the pole. The post assembly 20 may be provided with further features. For example, reinforcement portions 16 can be provided at various points along the post assembly 20 at locations expected to bear greater loads in use. Inspection holes may also be provided at the distal end 24 of the post assembly 20 in order allow a degree of visual inspection of the pole 12.

Figure 2 shows the second member 30, also herein referred to as a clamp assembly. It will become evident from the description of the method below that the clamp assembly 30 and the post assembly 20 provide a clamping action around the pole 12. The clamp assembly 30 comprises a semi-circular or half tubular channel 31 extending longitudinally between a distal end 33 and a proximal end 34. It will be appreciated that the half tubular channel 31 is substantially equivalent in dimensions to the aforementioned cut-out section of the post assembly 20. Flange portions 32 extend from the longitudinal edges and the arcuate proximal edge of the half tubular channel 31 and together form a second connecting portion 35. The flange portions 32 are complementary to the flange portions 22 of the post assembly 20. That is to say that the flange portions 32 also include a pair of longitudinally extending flange portions and a single arcuate shaped portion extending in a transverse direction at the proximal end 34 of the clamp assembly 30. The flange portions 22, 32 are complementary in the sense that the formed first and second connecting portions 25, 35 are configured to be fixed to one another in order to form the support assembly 10 that surrounds the pole. The flange portions 32 include a plurality of apertures 36 for receiving fastening elements as shown. Located between the proximal end 34 and the distal end 33, and on an outside surface of the clamp assembly 30 are lifting points 38, which allows the clamp assembly 30 to be carried to the desired installation location. The lifting points 38 are in the form of hex nuts as shown in Figure 2. Alternative lifting arrangements may be provided, e.g. eyelets, and can be provided at any convenient location along the clamp assembly 30.

The clamp assembly 30 may be provided with further features. For example, reinforcement portions can be provided at various points along the clamp assembly 30 at locations expected to bear greater loads in use. Inspection holes may also be provided in order allow a degree of timber condition inspection of the pole 12. For example, the inspection holes provided in either the post assembly 20 or the clamp assembly 30 may allow for destructive and non-destructive timber integrity inspections to be conducted if desired. For example, fibre optic cameras can be used to review the outer surface of the pole 12.

Reference is now made to Figures 4 to 8, which illustrate a template 40 used in the pole base replacement method of this embodiment of the invention. The template 40 is arranged about a portion of pole 12, and is intended to facilitate improved installation of the support assembly 10 as part of the pole base replacement method. This improved installation will be described in detail below.

The template 40 includes a pair of template segments 42, 44 that are assembled around a portion of the pole 12 and are removably attached to one another by a plurality of fastening elements 51. As best shown in Figure 5, the fastening elements are in the form of antiluce lock and sleeves, but other suitable fastening elements known in the art can be used. Each template segment 42, 44 includes a pair of elongate longitudinally extending sections 43 having a distal end 45 and a proximal end 46. The template segments are spaced apart and parallel to one another. The template 40 also includes a bottom plate (not shown) positioned at the proximal end 46 of the template 40 and extends transversely between extending sections 43 of template segment 42. The bottom plate provides a locating feature for the template 40 around the pole 12, with the bottom plate placed under the pole 12.

The template segments 42, 44 further comprise a plurality of spaced arcuate bands 48 extending transversely in a semi-circular shape between each longitudinally extending section 43 and connected thereto. The plurality of bands 48 are located in spaced disposition between the distal end 45 and the proximal end 46 and are generally clustered adjacent the respective ends. In other words, as shown in Figure 4, a series of bands 48 (in the depicted case, 2 bands) is provided adjacent the distal end 45 and another series of bands 48 (depicted as 3 bands) adjacent the proximal end 46. The bands may also include threaded bolts 57 which can be threaded through an aperture in the band until it urges against pole 12, thereby defining the spacing between the band 48 and the pole 12 to substantially centre the pole within the template 40. At the distal ends 45 of each longitudinally extending section 43, a lifting point (not shown) is provided to allow for the template segments 42, 44 to be lifted and moved to the desired position about the pole 12. Template segment 44 further includes a plurality of spacing elements 55 that extend perpendicularly from the extending sections 43 and towards the extending sections 43 of the template segment 42 in the template’s assembled state. The spacing elements provide a gap, for example a 25mm gap, between the template segments 42, 44 in the template’s assembled state. The benefit this provides is explained below in relation to the described method.

One of the main issues that particularly arises with standard wooden utility poles is that the outer periphery is uneven. The template 40 provides a means for securing a plurality of packing elements 49 to the appropriate positions of the pole 12. The packing elements 49 thus allow the pole 12 to assume a form having an outer periphery commensurate with the internal periphery of the support assembly. Thus, the template serves as a model of the assembled support assembly 10 so that the support assembly 10 can be installed around the pole 12 in a secure manner, i.e. by providing a snug fit. The packing elements 49 also ensure that an equal uniform pressure and transfer of load occurs between the pole 12 and support assembly 10 after assembly. As shown in Figure 6, the packing elements 49 are provided in the annular space between the template segments 42, 44 and the pole 12. The packing elements 49 may be substantially wedge or horseshoe shaped. In such a case, the packing elements 49 are to be installed with the horseshoe facing down in order to prevent water and debris settling in a cup portion between legs of the horseshoe. It is also noted that there are no packing elements placed initially at the front lower end of the pole 12, as these are intended to be placed after insertion of the post assembly 20 as will be discussed in the method below.

Further details in relation to the structure and role of the various components previously described will become more evident with the following description of one embodiment of the pole base replacement method.

The method may begin by conducting an inspection of the pole to confirm its suitability for the following pole base replacement method.

Assuming the pole is considered suitable, and with reference to Figure 9, the next step involves holding the existing pole 12, which in this case has a deteriorated portion 92, in place. Preferably, the pole 12 is held in place, in fixed disposition, preferably its original in-use position, for the whole duration of the pole replacement method. Keeping the pole fixed in its original position reduces disruption to the cables and supply (thus maintaining electricity supply), avoids placing any strain on the conductors, and is therefore safer. One means of achieving this is through the use of a powered mobile plant 94, such as a standard telescopic handler, excavator or crane as is well known to a skilled person in the art. With reference to Figure 10, the next step involves excavation, whereby a hole is dug beside the existing base of the pole. A suitable depth of hole beside the base of the pole is about 2 to 3 metres below ground level, and preferably slightly larger than the in ground depth of the replacement pole base. The additional depth aids removal of the bottom portion of the pole. This can be achieved manually or by suitable excavation equipment as is known in the art. The hole can be inclined so as to facilitate removal of the bottom portion of the pole at an angle from under the suspended upper portion of the pole. Other methods of removing the bottom portion of the pole can be used as is known in the art.

Once a suitable hole beside the base of the pole is created, the bottom portion of the pole (or pole base) including the deteriorated portion 92, is cut and then pulled out of the hole (Figure 1 1 ), thereby leaving the upper portion of the pole 12 still attached to the conductors. Preferably, the bottom portion of the pole includes the part of the pole that is below ground and a desired section of the above ground portion only limited by the length of support assembly 10. Preferably, the cut to the pole is made about 1 .2 to 1 .4 metres above the ground. As shown in Figure 12, the template 40 is then positioned around a lower portion of the pole 12 above the cut so that the template 40 encircles the pole 12. The template segments 42, 44 are then securely fastened to one another by securing the fastening elements 51 and then bolts 57 are tightened until they urge onto the pole 12. Spacing elements 55 will provide a gap, as explained above, between the template segments 42, 44. Once tightened around the pole, the template 40, in combination with the pole 12, is intended to serve as a preparatory model of the support assembly 10 once it is positioned around the pole 12. Measurements of the annular space or gap between a portion of the pole 12 and the template 40, in particular the portions of the pole 12 adjacent the bands 48, can now take place. These measurements will indicate what size of packing element 49 is required to be inserted into the gap. This is best illustrated in Figure 6, which shows several packing elements 49 in position. The packing elements 49 are secured to the pole 12, e.g. by screws or nails.

Preferably, the internal diameter of the template 40 when assembled is substantially equal to the internal diameter of the support assembly 10 when finally arranged around the packed pole 12. After a suitable number of packing elements 49 have been inserted into the gap, the template 40 can be removed by loosening the fastening elements 51 and the bolts 57 in order to allow for the separation of the template segments 42, 44, (Figure 13) followed by lifting and moving the template segments 42, 44 away from the pole 12. This leaves the pole 12 with packing elements 49 attached thereto as shown in Figure 14. It is noted that there are no packing elements placed initially at the front lower end of the pole 12 in order to aid in manoeuvring the post assembly 20 into place.

The next step involves sliding the post assembly 20 into the ground adjacent the pole 12 and then leaning the post assembly 20 over onto the pole 12 as shown in Figure 15. After the leaning of the post assembly 20 onto the pole 12, at least the arcuate portion of the flange portions 22 (and all parts below this point) of the post assembly 20 will be positioned below the pole 12. This allows for the post assembly 20 to then be pulled up towards and onto the pole 12. The post assembly 20 can be pulled up to the point at which the fins 27 contact the bottom of the pole 12 (with the perforated sheet 52 in between). This is preferably a careful process that ensures that no packing elements are damaged or dislodged. The fins 27 provide a locating feature identical in distance to the bottom plate of template 40 placed under the pole 12 and acts as a seat or support for the pole 12. The fins 27 also serve to provide a locating feature for the placement of the perforated sheet 52. In addition to its function as part of the drainage system of the pole 12, the sheet 52 prevents dislodged or unsecured packing elements 49 falling downwards beyond the fins 27. Thus, the post assembly 20 will now be in position about the pole 12 as shown in Figure 16. The final row of packing elements 49 can now be placed onto the front lower end of the pole 12.

Before placing the post assembly 20 about the pole, further cleaning and/or preparation of the hole can be undertaken. For example, guiding structures (e.g. a pole skid) may be inserted into the hole to help guide the post assembly into the ground. The hole is preferably deeper, say 200-300mm deeper than the in-ground depth of the post assembly 20.

The clamp assembly 30 is now positioned adjacent the pole 12 at a location where connecting portions 25, 35 of the post assembly 20 and clamp assembly 30 respectively, overlap (Figure 17). It will be appreciated by a person skilled in the art that connecting the clamp assembly 30 to the post assembly 20 will cause a clamping action of these two components onto the pole 12. The post assembly 20 and clamp assembly 30 are tightened against the pole 12 by the fastening elements (not shown) in respective flange portions 22, 32. The function of the gap provided by the spacing elements 55 is realised when the clamp assembly 30 and post assembly 20 are tightened towards one another, as it allows additional pressure to be applied by the post assembly 20 and clamp assembly 30 towards the pole 12, thereby providing an additional compressive force on the packing elements 49.

The compressive force is set so as to avoid over tightening the fastening elements, thus providing a snug fit around the pole but also taking into consideration expansion and contraction of, in this example, the wooden pole. The snug fit and right level of tightening of the fastening elements allows for, in this example, suitable spring washers to work in such a way that they accommodate the natural movement of the wooden pole over time. The tensioning sequence of the fastening elements preferably includes firstly tightening the fastening elements of the longitudinally extending flange portions (snug-tight as defined for snug tight bolts in AS 4100:1998), then the fastening elements of the arcuate portions (tensioned bolts as defined at Cl. 15.2.5.2 or Cl. 15.2.5.3. of AS410: 1998).

Thus, the packing elements 49 are pushed further into the pole 12 and a snug fit between the pole and the support assembly 10 is realised. For the reasons described below, the post assembly 20 and clamp assembly 30 are tightened only to an extent that is sufficient to secure the support assembly 10 to the pole 12.

In reference to the above, it should be noted that a snug fit does not mean that there will be no space between the pole 12 and the assembled support assembly 10. A fully encased wooden pole will“sweat”, leading to rot and deterioration of the pole. The space that is provided is an important feature of this embodiment. This allows the pole to breathe. During wet weather conditions, whilst rain can enter support assembly 10, the water is allowed to flow down the support assembly 10 (with minimal restriction caused by the packing elements) to catchment 54 as previously described. During hot weather conditions, and in the case of a wooden pole, the pole 12 releases moisture, and this is allowed to evaporate rather than collect around pole 12. The space also affords the pole a degree of movement within support assembly 10. This allows for some flex, contraction, or expansion of the pole. The space also allows for inspection of the pole as mentioned earlier. As shown in Figure 18, the post assembly 20 and clamp assembly 30 can be connected together through the use of suitably sized bolts that are inserted through apertures 26, 36 of the connecting portions 25, 35 of the post and clamp assemblies 20, 30. The bolts should be suitably tensioned and it is possible to utilise special locking buts or the like or centre-punch the thread adjacent the nuts and bolts to secure the tensioned connection. Other suitable components can be used to ensure suitable tensioned connection between the post assembly 20 and clamp assembly 30, e.g. tension bolts, spring washers.

As shown in Figure 19, once the support assembly 10 has been installed, the hole around the support assembly 10 is backfilled. Preferably, a pre-mix concrete or equivalent stabilising product is used with a minimum of 200mm thick concrete directly below post assembly 20. The remainder of the hole can be backfilled and suitably compacted with excavated materials and the top can then be re-dressed with soil and seeds if desired. The pole 12 can then be released by the grappler.

Thus, the pole 12 is now supported by the assembled support assembly 10, whereby the support assembly now provides a replacement base for the pole 12.

It is noted that in one embodiment of the method, the template 40 can be lifted and placed around a suitable portion of the upper portion of the pole before the pole is cut and/or the lower portion of the pole is removed to ensure the template’s suitability for the given pole. It is envisaged that there may be multiple different pre-sized templates suitable for different pre-sized support assemblies. Further, an initial cut may be made in the pole which can be used as a guide as to where the bottom plate of the template 40 is to reside. Once the template 40 is placed in the correct position about the upper portion of the pole, the packing elements 49 can be introduced (this taking placed before the pole is cut and/or the lower portion of the pole is removed). The pole can be suitably marked in this embodiment to guide correct placement of the post assembly about the pole.

In a further embodiment, the template may in fact be a sacrificial template. For example, the template remains in place when the support assembly is attached.

In a further embodiment, the pole need not be seated, such as on fins 27. Instead the post assembly and clamp assembly may grasp the pole in such a way whereby the pole is suspended between the clamp assembly and post assembly. The support assembly is preferably made of material that does not deteriorate at the same rate in the ground as the existing pole. The components of the support assembly 10 may be produced out of a suitable metal. For example, galvanized G350 steel may be used. The components of the template 40 may be produced out of a suitable metal. For example, galvanized G350 steel may also be used for the template. This also ensures that the pole is fire proofed at least a certain amount above the ground because of the support assembly.

It will be understood that the invention disclosed and defined in this specification extends to all alternative combinations of two or more of the individual features mentioned or evident from the text or drawings. All of these different combinations constitute various alternative aspects of the invention.