Kerb

Abstract

A curb is provided having a structure with at least one recess accessible from an upper side of the curb. The curb comprises at least one power supply point holding means for accommodating at least one, optionally only one power supply point, the power supply point holding means being at least partially embedded in the at least one recess. At least one void structure is provided between the lower side of the at least one power supply point holding device and the bottom of the recess. The curb includes at least one drain hole adapted to direct fluid, such as rainwater, from the void structure at the bottom of the recess through the outer wall of the curb to the external environment.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention generally relates to a power line carrier suitable for carrying a power line on or along one or more kerbs of a curb, and a method of providing a curb with an integrated power point or points. The present invention particularly relates to curbs of a curb, and a method of providing a curb with an integrated power point or points. Background Art

[0002] Electric and hybrid vehicles are gaining popularity. Therefore, being able to charge them in a simple and easy-to-use manner is crucial. Given the limited battery capacity in these vehicles, especially hybrids, public charging points must be plentiful and easily accessible. These points are often installed in street-level locations. However, their installation is subject to strict access policies, and they are often perceived as disruptive and susceptible to impact or damage from collisions with users (not just cars and trucks, but also cyclists).

[0003] Placing private power points at every or every house or parking space is often impractical from a spatial perspective, and certainly not along the often busy streets of municipal or urban areas. These power points can be placed on the front of a house or in a carport. They can only be used by the owner of the house. If the car is parked on the street in front of the house, cables must be laid above the sidewalk and, if applicable, the bike path. These cables pose a safety risk and are generally not permitted by municipalities or cities.

[0004] Furthermore, installing public and private power points is construction-intensive. A base must be cast to house the power point, which requires initial excavation, and a second pit must be created to electrically connect the power point to the distribution network.

[0005] Charging or power points provided along the side of a road or car park kerb, as suggested in GB 2572752 and GB 2597742, are more accessible. However, providing such integrated power points in kerbs remains difficult to implement and remains time-consuming and work-intensive, often requiring at least the replacement of the entire kerb. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The main problem currently is that providing such power points in or on curbs is labor-intensive, cumbersome, and time-consuming. Therefore, the aim is to provide a method for installing power points along curbs, or even integrating them into curbs, in a simple and quick manner. A further object of the present invention is to provide a device that allows for such simple and quick installation.

[0007] According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a power line carrier adapted to carry power lines over one or more curbstones. The power line carrier comprises or is an elongated structure extending in a longitudinal direction and having a transverse cross section adapted to be at least partially embedded in the one or more curbstones. The periphery of the transverse cross section comprises a first portion adapted to contact the one or more curbstones, the section comprising a second portion defining an outer side of the power line carrier oriented away from the one or more curbstones, the power line carrier comprising at least one housing for accommodating at least one, optionally only one, power point, which can be used at the outer side of the power line carrier, the structure comprising at least a first inlet proximate to or located at one of the lateral sides of the structure, the first inlet being adapted to receive one or more power cables at one of the lateral sides of the structure. At least one cable or wire can be arranged in the first inlet between one of the lateral sides of the structure and one or more of the at least one housing.

[0008] According to some embodiments, the first inlet may be an outer end portion of a first tubular channel extending in the longitudinal direction at one of the lateral sides of the structure, the first tubular channel being adapted to accommodate one or more power cables arranged in the longitudinal direction of the power line carrier, the at least one cable or wire being arranged in the first tubular channel between one of the lateral sides of the structure and one or more of the at least one housing.

[0009] Therefore, according to some embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a power line carrier adapted to carry power lines over one or more curbstones, the power line carrier being an elongated structure extending in a longitudinal direction and having a transverse cross-section adapted to be partially embedded in the one or more curbstones. The periphery of the transverse cross-section includes a first portion adapted to contact the one or more curbstones. The section includes a second portion defining an outer side of the power line carrier oriented away from the one or more curbstones. The power line carrier includes at least one housing for accommodating at least one, and optionally only one, power point, which can be accessed on the outer side of the power line carrier. The structure includes at least a first tubular channel extending in the longitudinal direction, the first tubular channel having an outer end proximate to or located at one of the structure's transverse sides, and the first tubular channel adapted to accommodate one or more power cables routed in the longitudinal direction of the power line carrier. At least one cable or conductor can be disposed in the first tubular channel between one of the structure's transverse sides and one or more of the at least one housing. Optionally, one or more of the housings are adapted to accommodate a plurality of power points, and between each of said housings for carrying a plurality of power points and one of the lateral sides of the structure, at least the same number of cables or wires as the number of power points to be carried by the housing are arranged in the first tubular channel.

[0010] Optionally, at least one cable or wire is disposed in the first tubular passageway between one of the lateral sides of the structure and each of the at least one housing. Optionally, a power cable is disposed in the first tubular passageway between one of the lateral sides of the structure and each of the at least one housing. Optionally, a data cable is disposed in the first tubular passageway between one of the lateral sides of the structure and each of the at least one housing. Optionally, a power cable and a data cable are disposed in the first tubular passageway between one of the lateral sides of the structure and each of the at least one housing. Optionally, a cable is disposed in the first tubular passageway between one of the lateral sides of the structure and each of the at least one housing. The cable comprises one or more data transmission conductors and one or more (e.g., three, four, or five) current conductors.

[0011] According to some embodiments, for each of the at least one housing, a through-opening for conducting at least one power cable between the first tubular channel and the at least one housing may be provided, at least one cable or wire being arranged in the through-opening.

[0012] A transverse cross section is a section according to a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. A longitudinal cross section is a section according to a plane parallel to the longitudinal direction.

[0013] In the region of the power line carrier which is free of a housing for accommodating a power point, the transverse cross-section is essentially identical in the longitudinal direction.

[0014] The power line carrier may comprise more than one housing for accommodating a power point, such as 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 or more housings for accommodating a power point. Optionally, the housing may be designed to accommodate more than one power point, such as 2, 3, 4 or more power points. Preferably, the power line carrier comprises one to seven housings, each housing being adapted to accommodate a power point.

[0015] Optionally, the housings may be arranged in pairs, adjacent to each other in the longitudinal direction. The housings may have an opening to receive a plug from a user. The openings may be oriented away from each other in the longitudinal direction, or may both face the same lateral side of the power line carrier.

[0016] According to some embodiments, the at least one cable or wire may be a pulling wire in the first tubular channel.

[0017] According to some embodiments, at least one cable or wire may be a power cable in the first tubular channel.

[0018] Preferably, one power cable is provided per housing, and optionally one power cable is provided for each power supply point that may be accommodated in the housing.

[0019] According to some embodiments, the power line carrier may comprise one or more data cables in the first tubular channel.

[0020] According to some embodiments, the power line carrier may include M housings for accommodating power supply points, where M is an integer equal to or greater than 1, and the power line carrier includes M data cables in the first tubular channel.

[0021] According to some embodiments, the power line carrier may include N housings for accommodating power supply points, where N is an integer equal to or greater than 1, and the power line carrier includes N power cables in the first tubular channel.

[0022] Each power cable can include multiple current conductors, each of which is adapted to transmit one phase of alternating current or direct current to a power supply point. By way of example, each power cable can include five current conductors: three so-called live conductors for transmitting the phases of the current, one conductor for transmitting or serving as a neutral conductor, and one conductor for grounding. Each power cable can also include one or more data transmission conductors adapted to transmit data to or from a housing or power supply point. Each power cable can have a substantially circular polymer jacket, within which multiple current carriers and, optionally, data carriers are carried, all of which are insulated. Alternatively, the power cable can have a substantially rectangular polymer jacket, within which multiple current carriers and, optionally, data carriers are carried, all of which are insulated. In this configuration, the current carriers can be arranged adjacent to one another in a plane parallel to the long sides of the rectangular cross-section. The data carriers can also be arranged adjacent to one another in a plane, or can be arranged as a stranded bundle of mutually insulated data carriers, the stranded bundle being substantially parallel to the data carriers.

[0023] According to some embodiments, the power cables may include a substantially rectangular outer periphery, the power cables being arranged in a stacked manner in the first tubular channel.

[0024] The first tubular channel may have a substantially rectangular cross section, with two parallel sides of the rectangular cross section being substantially parallel to the long sides of the substantially rectangular outer periphery of the power cable. The two parallel sides of the rectangular cross section may be oriented so that they are substantially horizontal when the power line carrier is in use. The second part of the periphery of the lateral cross section of the power line carrier (defined as the outer side of the power line carrier oriented away from one or more curbs) is understood to define the top of the power line carrier, and the order in which the power cables are layered and stacked in the first tubular channel is such that the power cable provided to the first housing closest to one of the lateral sides of the structure is the uppermost power cable in the stack of power cables. For each subsequent housing from the first housing, the power cable provided to the subsequent housing is the subsequent power cable downward in the stack of power cables away from the top of the power line carrier.

[0025] According to some embodiments, one or more power line carriers at the ends of the power lines present at the housing may be provided with one or more plugs adapted to be plugged into a power supply point.

[0026] According to some embodiments, the power line carrier may comprise a power supply point in at least one of the at least one housing for accommodating a power supply point, optionally accommodating one power supply point in each of the at least one housing for accommodating a power supply point.

[0027] According to some embodiments, the power point is electrically coupled to one of the power cables in the first tubular passage. This can be achieved by one or more plugs provided at the ends of the power cables, which are plugged into appropriate sockets in the one or more power points in the housing.

[0028] According to some embodiments, at least one housing for accommodating a power supply point may be provided with a closing cover, optionally hingedly connected to the housing, the closing cover being adapted to close the housing liquid-tightly from the external environment outside the power line carrier.

[0029] According to some embodiments, a lock may be provided between the housing and the closure cover, preventing the closure cover from being opened without releasing the lock.

[0030] The lock may be a key operated lock, an electrically operated lock or any suitable type of lock.

[0031] The transverse cross-section adapted to be partially embedded in the one or more curbstones may be substantially rectangular, with a slightly curved surface serving as the housing for the power point, referred to as the top surface. The first portion may be the side of the rectangular cross-section opposite the top surface, along with some or all of the adjacent upright side portions. Thus, the second portion is the top surface.

[0032] The power line carrier may comprise a first portion adapted to be embedded in one or more curbstones, the first portion comprising at least two sets of paired first and second segments.

[0033] According to some embodiments, the first portion may include at least two sets of paired first and second segments, the segments in the pairs of segments being adapted to contact one or more curbs, and for each of the paired segments, the first segment and the second segment forming a leg directed outwardly toward the structure of the power line carrier at an angle equal to or greater than 90° and less than 180°.

[0034] The transverse intersection section may have a mushroom shape with a stem directed downwards, the stem optionally terminating at a point.The second section may be a side of the stem, with the underside of the cap providing the first section.

[0035] An angle directed towards the outside of the structure of the power line carrier (hereinafter also called outer angle) means an angle formed at the side of the leg which does not comprise a part of the power line carrier and is therefore directed away from the structure.

[0036] The outer angle between the first section and the second section is preferably in the range of 90° to 180°.

[0037] The two first sections are preferably parallel, more preferably coplanar.

[0038] According to some embodiments, for a transverse intersection segment, two lines (each line coinciding with one of the first segments of at least two sets of paired first and second segments) divide the intersection segment into an upper portion defined by the two lines and the second portion of the segment, and a lower portion at least partially defined by the two lines and the second segment of at least two sets of paired first and second segments, and the first tubular channel is located in the lower portion.

[0039] According to some embodiments, for a lateral intersection segment, two lines (each line coinciding with one of the first segments of at least two sets of paired first and second segments) divide the intersection segment into an upper side portion defined by the two lines and the second portion of the segment, and a lower side portion at least partially defined by the two lines and the second segment of at least two sets of paired first and second segments, and the shell of the at least one shell for accommodating the power point is located in the lower side portion.

[0040] Optionally, each housing is provided with one or more indicator lights. The indicator lights can provide information to the external environment regarding the status of the power point housed in the housing, such as whether it is available for power supply, unavailable for power supply, faulty, locked, unlocked, etc. A combination of switched or non-switched indicator lights can provide this information.

[0041] The housing may be provided with lighting to help a user insert the power plug into the power point.The power point may comprise a socket electrically connectable to the power plug.

[0042] Optionally, each housing may be provided with a code (such as a QR code, etc.), or provided with a holder for holding a code (such as a QR code, etc.). The code can provide appropriate information to the user on a data providing device (such as a smart phone, etc.).

[0043] The code (such as a QR code) can be used to identify the power point and enable the power supply to the power point to be switched on or off, and / or locked or unlocked, for example, via remote control or via a non-wired connection to a control device that controls the status and power supply of one or more power points.

[0044] According to some embodiments, for a lateral intersection segment, two lines (each line coinciding with one of the second segments of the at least two pairs of first and second segments) are non-parallel, the second segments intersecting at a bottom point of the segment.

[0045] Thus, a triangular wedge is defined from the angle of the first and second segments toward the bottom point. This has the advantage that, to apply the power line carrier to an existing curb, only the wedge-shaped insertion portion needs to be provided on the top side of the curb. The wedge is preferably identical in shape to the wedge defined by the second segment of the pair, so that the power line carrier can be smoothly laid and inserted into the wedge in the curb. Obviously, a connection, such as glue or adhesive, can be provided between the curb wedge and the power line carrier. The triangular wedge in the curb can be ground into the curb.

[0046] Alternatively, from the angle of the first and second segments toward the bottom point, the trapezoidal wedge portion may be defined by providing a lower side segment bounding the second segment of the pair at its side facing away from the angle formed with the first segment of the pair.

[0047] The angle between the two second segments, measured at the intersection point of the two segments, optionally at the bottom point, is preferably in the range of 0° to 120°, for example 0° to 90°.

[0048] Optionally, along the second section towards the bottom or lower section, barbs may be provided with their tops oriented towards the bottom or lower section. Once inserted, these barbs prevent the power line carrier from being easily pulled out of the wedge formed in the curb.

[0049] According to some embodiments, the second portion defining the outer side of the power line carrier oriented away from the one or more curbs may be a curved outer side.

[0050] According to some embodiments, the power line carrier may comprise a polymer material, such as natural or artificial rubber and optionally recycled rubber.

[0051] Optionally, the polymer material comprises reinforcing elements such as reinforcing fibers or sheets, for example, sheets of metal wire or glass fibers of a woven fiberglass sheet.

[0052] Optionally, the first tubular channel is provided by a tubular element. Optionally, the power line carrier comprises more than one tubular channel.

[0053] Optionally, the power line carrier is provided with bolt holes along the lateral sides of the power line carrier. This allows the power line carrier to be bolted to one or more curbs. These bolt holes may extend through the structure of the power line carrier, starting from a second portion defining an outer side of the power line carrier oriented away from the one or more curbs, through a first section of the first portion.

[0054] According to some embodiments, the power line carrier may comprise one or more sockets at one longitudinal end, each socket being adapted to be coupled to one or more of the power lines to be carried, and one or more plugs at the other longitudinal end, each plug being adapted to be coupled to one or more of the power lines to be carried and to be electrically coupled to one or more sockets of an adjacent power line carrier.

[0055] According to some embodiments, the first portion of the periphery of the transverse intersection segment may include at least one stuffing box member for retaining a seal or joint to be provided between the first component and the surface of one or more curbstones.

[0056] According to some embodiments, the power line carrier may comprise a coil designed to be wound up, said coil preferably having a diameter smaller than 10 m and optionally having a diameter larger than 1 m.

[0057] The length of the power line carrier according to the present invention is preferably greater than 10 m, for example in the range of 10 m to 50 m.

[0058] Alternatively, the power line carrier is provided as a tape, such as a substantially flat tape, preferably having a length of up to 14 m, such as in the range of 1 m to 13.6 m, more preferably in the range of 10 m to 13.5 m.

[0059] According to some embodiments, the power line carrier comprises or may even consist of upper and lower separable parts which can be separated along a surface which, for each transverse intersection segment, defines two lines in the longitudinal direction, each line coinciding with one of the first segments of at least two pairs of first and second segments, the two lines dividing the intersection segment into an upper side portion defined by the two lines and the second portion of the segment, and a lower side portion at least partially defined by the two lines and the second segment of at least two pairs of first and second segments, wherein the first tubular channel is located in the lower side portion.

[0060] The upper and lower separable parts can be joined by gluing to form the power line carrier. Providing the power line carrier in two parts facilitates easier installation of the power line carrier on existing or newly installed or cast curbs or edges.

[0061] The power line carrier may comprise an upper and a lower detachable part, together forming the power line carrier. The lower detachable part provides a block of at least the first part of the transverse intersection section, which is suitable for being partially embedded in the one or more kerbs. The upper detachable part provides the first part of the transverse intersection section and optionally also a block of the first part of the transverse intersection section suitable for being partially embedded in the one or more kerbs. The lower detachable part comprises the at least first tubular channel, while the upper detachable part comprises the at least one housing for accommodating at least one, optionally only one, power supply point. Thus, according to a second aspect of the present invention, a set of components is provided. The set comprises an upper and a lower detachable part, together forming the power line carrier according to the first aspect of the present invention.

[0062] The upper and lower parts can be manufactured separately and joined once provided. The upper and lower parts can be processed separately and joined when the lower part is already installed on or in one or more kerbs.

[0063] The coupling of the upper and lower separable parts can be provided by any suitable means for joining the two parts. The upper part can include one of the male or female parts of the snap-fit ​​locking system and the lower part includes the other of the male or female parts of the snap-fit ​​locking system.

[0064] One or both of the contact surfaces of the mutually separable portions of the upper and lower sides may include a stuffing box member to receive a seal between the portions of the upper and lower sides.

[0065] According to a third aspect of the present invention, a curb insert is provided, comprising an elongated structure extending in a longitudinal direction and having a transverse cross section. The curb insert is adapted to be partially embedded in one or more curbs. The perimeter of the transverse cross section includes at least a first portion adapted to contact one or more curbs. The structure includes at least a first tubular channel extending in the longitudinal direction, the first tubular channel having an outer end located near or at one of the lateral sides of the structure, the first tubular channel adapted to accommodate one or more power cables routed in the longitudinal direction of a power line carrier, at least one cable or conductor disposed in the first tubular channel. The curb insert may include a first portion adapted to contact one or more curbs along the perimeter of the transverse cross section of the power line carrier according to the first aspect of the invention, and / or a lower portion of a set of components according to the second aspect of the invention. Therefore, the features of the first portion adapted to contact one or more curbs along the perimeter of the transverse cross section of the power line carrier according to the first aspect of the invention may also be applied to the curb insert according to the third aspect of the invention.

[0066] According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a power line carrier adapted to carry power lines over one or more curbs, wherein the power line carrier is an elongated structure extending in a longitudinal direction and having a transverse cross section adapted to be at least partially embedded in the one or more curbs, the transverse cross section having a perimeter comprising a first portion adapted to contact the one or more curbs, the section comprising a second portion defining an outer portion of the power line carrier oriented away from the one or more curbs, the power line carrier comprising at least one housing for accommodating at least one, optionally only one, power point, the power point being accessible on the outer portion of the power line carrier, the structure comprising at least one first inlet proximate to or located at one of the lateral sides of the structure, the first inlet adapted to receive one or more power cables at one of the lateral sides of the structure. At least one cable or wire may be disposed in the first inlet between one of the lateral sides of the structure and one or more of the at least one housings. The elongated structure comprises a box member having at least one or more housings for accommodating at least one, optionally only one, power point disposed therein, the first inlet opening at a side wall of the box member.

[0067] Lateral walls are walls that are perpendicular to the longitudinal direction and that are present at the transverse sides of the structure.

[0068] According to some embodiments, some or all of at least one or more shells can be rotated in the box member between at least a first position and a second position, and the shell in the first rotation position is suitable for providing a power supply point that can be used outside the power line carrier, and the shell in the second rotation position is suitable for hiding the power supply point so that it cannot be used from the outside of the power line carrier.

[0069] Preferably, when the one or more housings are in their first rotational position, the one or more power supply points are oriented other than horizontally, more preferably substantially vertically.

[0070] According to some embodiments, the rotation axis of the one or more rotating shells may be perpendicular to the longitudinal direction.

[0071] The elongated structure can hold more than one (e.g., two) adjacent housings. Each housing can house one or more power points. The two housings can each be rotatable about an axis that is parallel to the other. The first housing can be rotatable clockwise about its axis, while the other housing can be rotatable counterclockwise about its axis. The two housings can be rotatable about their respective axes so that the rotation is directed toward each other.

[0072] Each housing may include a cover or cover fitting so that the power supply point is protected from rain, snow or hail that may fall into the power supply point when exposed to the external environment.

[0073] According to some embodiments, at least the first inlet may be provided at one of the lateral sides of the structure.

[0074] According to some embodiments, at least the first inlet may be provided at the bottom of the structure near one of the lateral sides of the structure.

[0075] According to some embodiments, the structure includes at least one flange for contacting a top side of a curb when the box member may be at least partially embedded in the one or more curbs.

[0076] According to some embodiments, the tank member may be a polymer, composite, or metal (eg, stainless steel) tank member.

[0077] The power line carrier according to this aspect of the invention can be used in combination with the curb covering according to the invention.

[0078] According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a kerb adapted to receive at least one power line carrier according to the fourth aspect of the present invention. The kerb comprises a recess for at least partially embedding the elongated structure of the at least one power line carrier in the recess.

[0079] According to some embodiments, the kerb may be adapted to receive more than one power line carrier according to the fourth aspect of the invention, wherein the kerb may comprise a recess for at least partially embedding the elongated structures of the more than one power line carriers in the recess.

[0080] According to some embodiments, the curb may have lateral sides, the curb comprising a first tubular channel extending preferably in a longitudinal direction between one of the lateral sides of the curb and the recess, the first tubular channel being adapted to accommodate one or more power cables.

[0081] According to some embodiments, the curb may have a cavity oriented towards the inside of the curb and extending from the top side of the curb at least up to the outer end of the first tubular channel present at one of the lateral sides.

[0082] According to some embodiments, the curb may include at least one drainage hole adapted to direct fluid, such as rainwater, from the recess receiving the one or more housings through the outer wall of the curb toward the external environment.

[0083] The curb can be of varying sizes to allow alignment or adaptation to replace existing curbs. In curbs of varying sizes, the recess can be uniformly sized to allow identical power line carriers to at least partially, and optionally completely, fit within the recess. Optionally, the recess is wide enough to accommodate two or more, optionally identical, power line carriers, positioned adjacent to each other parallel to the curb of which the curb will be or become part. Each of these power line carriers can include more than one housing, each housing having one or more power points, but preferably, two power line carriers are provided, each housing a housing. These power line carriers can be identical but positioned in opposite directions. When the power line carriers hold rotatable housings, positioning them in opposite directions has the advantage that, when viewed from the same side of the curb, the housings rotate in opposite directions—one clockwise and the other counterclockwise. Thus, using the same power line carrier, two mutually opposite power points, with access points located in opposite directions, can be provided.

[0084] A rotation system for rotating one or more housings may be provided. The rotation system may include a controllable motor (e.g., an electric drive motor) to provide the rotation, or may include, for example, an air pump to drive the rotation. Any other suitable rotation system may be installed and used.

[0085] According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, a curb stone addon is provided, which is an elongated structure extending in a longitudinal direction and having a transverse cross section. The curb stone addon is suitable for being added on the top surface of one or more curb stones. The periphery of the transverse cross section includes a portion defining an outer side of the curb stone addon that is oriented away from the one or more curb stones. The curb stone addon includes at least one housing for accommodating at least one, optionally only one, power point, which can be used on the outer side of the curb stone addon. The curb stone addon can provide a second part of the transverse cross section of the power line carrier according to the first aspect of the present invention, and / or an upper part in a set of parts according to the second aspect of the present invention. Therefore, the features of the second part of the periphery of the transverse cross section of the power line carrier according to the first aspect of the present invention can be applied to such a curb stone addon according to the fourth aspect of the present invention.

[0086] According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, there is provided a kerb covering which is an elongated structure extending in a longitudinal direction and having a transverse cross section. The kerb covering is adapted to be added on the top surface of one or more kerbs. The periphery of the transverse cross section includes a portion defining an outer side of the kerb covering which is oriented away from the one or more kerbs. The kerb covering may have the same transverse cross section as the kerb extender according to the fourth aspect of the present invention, while lacking, and therefore having, a housing for accommodating a power point. The kerb covering may be used in combination with a kerb insert according to the third aspect of the present invention, rather than a kerb extender. The kerb covering may be coupled to the kerb insert in the same or similar manner as the kerb extender, and therefore these features of the kerb extender may also be applicable to the kerb covering.

[0087] Combining one or more kerb inserts with one or even more kerb extensions and one or more kerb covers offers the possibility of arranging power points along the length of the kerb that is longer than the length of one kerb extension. Alternating kerb extensions and kerb covers provides more freedom in defining the position of power points along the length of the kerb.

[0088] The curb cover may be used in combination with the curb according to the fourth aspect of the present invention.

[0089] Therefore, according to an eighth embodiment of the present invention, a set of components is provided, the set of components comprising at least one (optionally more than one) kerb insert according to the third aspect of the present invention, at least one (optionally more than one) kerb extension according to the fourth aspect of the present invention and optionally one or more kerb covers according to the fifth aspect of the present invention. Optionally, the set of components may also include one or more bending elements to allow the power line and optionally one or more tubular channels and thus the power line to bend away from the elongated direction, for example towards one side of a road or field of which the kerb is part. Optionally, the set of components may also include one or more end component elements to close the tubular channel at the lateral sides from other directions when the tubular channel is open at one or both lateral sides of the power line carrier.

[0090] According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method for installing an integrated power supply point on a curb. The method comprises the following steps: providing a kerb comprising one or more kerbs, the kerb having a wedge-shaped portion in a visible surface of the one or more kerbs; · providing a power line carrier according to the first aspect of the invention; · Connect the power line carrier to one or more curbs.

[0091] The next step may include a) inserting a first portion of the transverse cross section of the power line carrier into a wedge-shaped portion provided in one or more curbstones; b) providing at least one housing for accommodating a power point having a power point; c) disposing one or more power lines in at least the first tubular passage; d) electrically connecting one or more power supply points to one or more power lines; e) Inserting one or more power points into one or more housings.

[0092] Optionally, steps b, c, d and e are performed before step a. Alternatively, step a is performed before steps b, c, d and e, and steps b, c, d and e are performed in this order.

[0093] Optionally, steps c, d and e are performed before step a, which in turn is performed before step b. Alternatively, step a is performed before step b.

[0094] According to some embodiments, when the power line carrier comprises or even consists of upper and lower mutually separable pieces, coupling the power line carrier to one or more curbs may comprise a) 1.) Inserting the lower portion of the power line carrier into a wedge-shaped portion provided in one or more curbstones; a) 2.) Connecting the upper portion of the power line to the lower portion of the power line carrier; b) providing at least one housing for accommodating a power point having a power point; c) disposing one or more power lines in at least the first tubular passage; d) electrically coupling the one or more power points to the one or more power lines, and inserting the one or more power points into the housing.

[0095] Optionally, step a1 comprises adhering the lower portion of the power line carrier to one or more kerbs in the provided wedge-shaped portion. Optionally, step c is performed after step a1 and before step a2.

[0096] Providing a curb may comprise grinding or milling a wedge-shaped portion into one or more curbstones of an installed, for example, existing, curb comprising one or more curbstones having a wedge-shaped portion in a visible surface of the one or more curbstones. Alternatively, one or more curbstones having a wedge-shaped portion in a visible surface of the one or more curbstones may be provided and installed as the curb prior to providing the power line carrier. Alternatively, one or more curbstones having a wedge-shaped portion in a visible surface of the one or more curbstones may be cast on site prior to providing the power line carrier, thereby providing the curb. Alternatively, one or more curbstones having a visible surface of the one or more curbstones may be cast on site prior to providing the power line carrier, and thereafter a wedge-shaped portion may be formed (e.g., ground or cut) in the visible surface of the one or more curbstones, thereby providing the curb.

[0097] The power line will be electrically connected to the power grid. A power distribution device, such as a distribution box, may be provided to connect the power line to the power grid. If a data cable is provided, the data cable may also be connected to a control device, thereby allowing the distribution of power to one or more power supply points to be controlled based on data obtained via the data cable.

[0098] The power distribution device may include a switch for switching power to or from each power cable present in the power line carrier after the power line carrier is installed. The power distribution device may include a processing unit for controlling the status of the power supply points connected to the power distribution device, for controlling the locking and unlocking of the locks (if applicable) on the power supply points, etc. The processing unit may include a measuring unit for measuring the power of the current consumed by each power supply point. The power distribution device may also include a communication unit for communicating information such as the status of the power supply points, the amount of current consumed in a certain time period, etc. with an external power supplier, which sells the amount of current consumed at the power supply points to a customer who charges his vehicle at one of the power supply points.

[0099] Therefore, a method for placing an integrated power point on a curb is provided. The method comprises the following steps: providing a kerb comprising one or more kerbs according to the fifth aspect of the invention; providing at least one power line carrier according to the fourth aspect of the invention; • at least partially embedding the at least one power line carrier in at least one of the one or more curb stones.

[0100] According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, a curbstone is provided, comprising a structure having at least one recessed portion accessible from an upper side of the curbstone. The curbstone includes at least one power point holder for accommodating at least one, and optionally only one, power point, the power point holder being at least partially embedded in the at least one recessed portion, with at least one void structure being provided between a lower portion of the at least one power point holder and a bottom of the recessed portion. The curbstone includes at least one drainage hole adapted to direct fluid (e.g., rainwater) from the void structure at the bottom of the recessed portion through an outer wall of the curbstone and out of the structure.

[0101] The curb can include more than one (e.g., two, three, or four) recesses, all similar or identical. In each of the one or more recesses, at least one, but optionally more than one (e.g., two, three, or four) power point holders can be inserted. Each of these power point holders can accommodate at least one, optionally only one, but optionally more than one (e.g., two, three, or four) power points. The power point holders can be partially or completely embedded in the recesses. The power point holders can include an edge that extends laterally from a side wall of the power point holder and is adapted to contact an outer wall of a structure adjacent to the recess.

[0102] The drainage hole can be suitable for guiding fluid (such as rainwater) from the void structure at the bottom of the recess through the outer wall of the curb to or into an adjacent drainage hole of an adjacent curb according to the present invention, to the external environment, to a sewer through a pipe or similar fluid guiding device, to a water reservoir (such as an underground water reservoir or similar fluid containing unit), to a water seepage system including pipes, water reservoirs and / or any similar permeable elements, or any other system for diverting water from the curb.

[0103] The power point holding device may also be a housing in which the power point is housed. It may also be any device, such as a frame or similar device, that can hold the power point in place within the recess. The housing or the at least one power point holding device may be in the form of a box member made of a polymer material, a composite material, or metal, such as a stainless steel box member.

[0104] The kerb thus comprises a structure or body in which the recess is provided. The structure may be provided from concrete, a composite material or even from a polymer material, such as a rigid polymer material.

[0105] According to some embodiments, at least one power point holding device may have at least one opening at a lower side of the at least one power point holding device.

[0106] When mounted in the recess, the opening is preferably located at the lowest point of the at least one power point retaining device. Optionally, more than one opening is provided on the underside of the at least one power point retaining device. Even more preferably, the underside of the at least one power point retaining device is substantially completely open.

[0107] According to some embodiments, the curb may further comprise a first tubular channel adapted to house one or more power cables between an outer side of the structure and the recess.

[0108] According to some embodiments, the first tubular channel may be a channel positioned adjacent to or below the void structure at the bottom of the recess.

[0109] The first tubular channel may have a circular, polygonal elliptical or any other suitable transverse cross-section, preferably a rectangular, square, elliptical or circular cross-section.

[0110] The first tubular passageway may have at least a first inlet located at one of the lateral sides of the structure. More preferably, the first tubular passageway may have at least a first inlet and a second inlet, one of these inlets being located at each of the lateral sides of the structure. Optionally, the first tubular passageway may pass near the bottom of the structure and / or may pass from one lateral side of the structure to another lateral side.

[0111] Preferably, the first tubular passage may comprise more than one, for example 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 or even more power cables. Optionally, the first tubular passage may also comprise one or more data cables.

[0112] The first tubular passage may have a branch or opening towards the recess for passing one or more power cables and / or data cables from the first tubular passage to the recess. Thus, a connection can be established between a device located in the external environment of the structure and one or more power supply points via one or more power cables and / or data cables, which may optionally be further connected to a power station or power supply device.

[0113] Thus, the structure may comprise at least a first inlet close to or located at one of the lateral sides of the structure, said first inlet being adapted to receive one or more power cables at one of the lateral sides of the structure. The first tubular passage may have a second inlet. Each of the lateral sides of the structure may be provided with one of the two inlets. The two inlets may be positioned so that, when installed, the first inlet of a first kerb according to the invention is aligned with the second inlet of a second kerb according to the invention. When the kerb is part of a curb, one or more power cables and / or data cables may pass through the first tubular passage of one kerb towards the first tubular passage of an adjacent kerb, and so on. Thus, a passage for one or more power cables and / or data cables may be provided between a plurality of mutually adjacent kerbs.

[0114] According to some embodiments, the structure of the curb may be an elongated structure extending in a longitudinal direction.

[0115] According to some embodiments, at least one recess may be an elongated recess extending in the longitudinal direction of the structure.

[0116] Preferably, the recess is cuboid or has substantially polygonal transverse cross sections.Most preferably, when the kerb is installed, the upper side of the structure may be substantially parallel to the external ambient surface.

[0117] The structure of the curbstone has a substantially polygonal transverse cross section. When the curbstone is installed, the top side of the transverse cross section is substantially flat or slightly inclined relative to the horizontal plane.

[0118] According to some embodiments, at least a first drain hole and a second drain hole may be provided, one at each lateral side of the structure.

[0119] According to some embodiments, at least a first drainage hole may be provided at one lateral side of the structure.

[0120] Optionally, at least a first drain hole and a second drain hole may be provided, one on each lateral side of the structure.

[0121] According to some embodiments, a water-permeable object holding surface may be provided below the lower side of the at least one power point holding device and spaced from the bottom of the recess.

[0122] According to some embodiments, the water permeable object-retaining surface may be provided by a metal or polymer mesh, a perforated plate, or a filtration system comprising a water permeable envelope filled with solid objects (eg, gravel), biodegradable objects, or the like.

[0123] The water permeable envelope itself may be provided by a metal or polymer mesh.

[0124] Therefore, only water that penetrates the recess and water from the waste stream enters the void structure at the bottom of the power point holding device through the permeable object-retaining surface, where it can drain through at least one, and optionally more than one, drainage hole. Dirt is trapped and can be removed from the recess when the curb recess is cleaned. The permeable object-retaining surface can function as a drainage layer. It can be provided as a tile component or as a separate component and is preferably also removable from the recess.

[0125] The at least one power point holding device may be removably mounted in the recess so as to be removed from the recess during cleaning of the recess.

[0126] Thus, the curb may include a second tubular channel adapted to move water from the recess to the environment outside the curb. This second channel may be a separate channel fluidly coupled to the recess, preferably to the bottom of the recess, or may be provided by the bottom of the recess, the two lateral upright walls, and a water-permeable object at the top side of the second tubular channel.

[0127] Thus, the structure can include at least a first drainage hole on one of the structure's lateral sides and a second drainage hole on the opposite lateral side of the structure. The two drainage holes can be positioned so that, when installed, the first drainage hole of a first curb according to the present invention aligns with the second drainage hole of a second curb according to the present invention. When the curb is part of a curb, water from the void structure of a first curb of the curb can flow toward the void structure of an adjacent curb, and so on. Thus, a channel for drainage can be provided between multiple adjacent curbs.

[0128] According to some embodiments, the curb also includes a curb that may include a second tubular channel extending between two mutually opposing sides of the structure of the curb, preferably lateral sides of the structure, and the second tubular channel provides two drainage holes, which are suitable for guiding fluid (such as rainwater) from the gap structure at the bottom of the recess through the outer wall of the curb to the external environment.

[0129] In the curbstone, at least one, and optionally multiple, power point holding devices may be provided in at least one recess, each of which accommodates at least one, and optionally only one, power point. Two or more power point holding devices may be installed in one recess, the power point holding devices being adjacent to each other in the longitudinal direction of the curbstone.

[0130] The power point holding means may be the same as or similar to a housing for accommodating at least one, optionally only one, power point of the power line carrier of the fourth aspect of the invention.

[0131] According to some embodiments, the at least one power point is rotatable in the power point holding device between at least a first position and a second position, the power point being adapted to provide a power point accessible from an outer side of the curb when in the first rotational position, and the power point being concealed from access from an outer side of the curb when in the second rotational position.

[0132] Optionally, when the power supply point is in the second rotational position, the power supply point is concealed from being accessible from an outer side of the kerb, and is optionally even fully embedded in a recess in the kerb.

[0133] The one or more rotation axes of the rotating power supply point may be perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the curb. The one or more rotation axes of the rotating power supply point may be parallel to the upper side of the curb.

[0134] According to some embodiments, the rotation axis or axes of the rotating power supply point may be perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the curb and parallel to the upper side of the curb.

[0135] According to some embodiments, the power point retention device may comprise at least one flange for contacting a top side of the curb when the power point retention device is at least partially embedded in the recess.

[0136] According to an eleventh aspect of the present invention, a kerb according to the tenth aspect of the present invention is used to provide an integrated power supply point to a kerb.

[0137] The curbstones may be installed or positioned adjacent to each other, and preferably in contact with each other. The curbstones may be installed or positioned so that the drainage holes communicate with each other and form a fluid (e.g., water) diversion device to direct fluid (e.g., rainwater) to a system to divert water from the curb through a pipe or similar fluid-directing device, for example, to the outside environment or a drain or sewer, to a reservoir (e.g., an underground reservoir or similar fluid-containing unit), to a water seepage system including pipes, reservoirs, and / or any similar seepage elements, or any other system for diverting water from the curbstone.

[0138] According to a twelfth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a curb comprising a plurality of curbstones according to the tenth aspect of the present invention.

[0139] Optionally, the kerb comprises or even consists of kerb stones according to the tenth aspect of the invention mounted adjacent to each other.

[0140] The curbstone according to the tenth aspect of the present invention can be combined with an additional curbstone having a structure or body provided with at least a first tubular channel having inlets adapted to receive one or more power cables on two lateral sides of the structure. These two inlets can be positioned so that, when installed, the first inlet of a first curbstone according to the present invention aligns with one of the inlets of such a curbstone. When the curbstone is part of a curbstone in which a curbstone according to the tenth aspect of the present invention is also used, one or more power cables and / or data cables can be routed through the first tubular channel of one curbstone, towards the first tubular channel of an adjacent curbstone, and so on, with several curbstones being curbstones according to the tenth aspect of the present invention. Thus, a channel for one or more power cables and / or data cables can be provided between multiple adjacent curbstones. The additional curbstone can also include a second tubular channel adapted to direct water from a recess, the second tubular channel having two openings, one at each of the two lateral upright walls of the additional curbstone.

[0141] When using a curbstone according to the tenth aspect of the present invention, the curbstone structure includes at least a first drainage hole at one of the lateral sides of the structure and a second drainage hole at the opposite lateral side of the structure, and the first drainage hole of the first curbstone according to the present invention is aligned with one of the openings of the additional curbstone. Thus, a channel for drainage can be provided between a plurality of mutually adjacent curbstones.

[0142] It will be apparent that one or more features of one aspect of the invention may be combined with one or all features of one or more other aspects of the invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0143] Figures 1 to 5 and Figure 7 A power line carrier according to the invention is schematically shown.

[0144] Figure 6 A power line carrier according to the invention is schematically shown, which consists of a set of components according to the invention.

[0145] Figure 8 A schematic diagram shows a transverse cross-section of a power line carrier according to the invention, which consists of a set of components according to the invention, wherein the curb insert and the curb extension of the set of components are visible.

[0146] Figure 9 Schematically shows Figure 8 A transverse cross section of a power line carrier in a position consisting of a set of components according to the invention, wherein the curb insert and the curb cover of the set of components are visible.

[0147] Figure 10 Schematically shows the Figure 8 The plane BB' is the longitudinal intersection segment of the power line carrier.

[0148] Figure 11 Schematic diagram of the installed curb Figure 9 Power line carrier shown.

[0149] Figure 12 Schematically illustrating a power line carrier according to a fourth aspect of the invention;

[0150] Figure 13 There is shown schematically a kerb according to a fifth aspect of the invention, adapted to receive a Figure 12 Power line carrier.

[0151] Figure 14 Schematically shows the Figure 13 A curbstone suitable for receiving Figure 12 A power line carrier is provided adjacent to an existing kerb in which a wedge-shaped portion is provided. In the wedge-shaped portion, a kerb covering according to the fourth aspect of the present invention is provided.

[0152] Figure 15 Another kerb according to the invention is schematically shown, adapted to receive a power line carrier, adjacent to an existing kerb in which a wedge is provided. A kerb cover according to the fourth aspect of the invention is provided in the wedge. Two power line carriers are shown, including the housing of a power point removed from the elongated structure.

[0153] Figure 16 Another curbstone according to the invention is schematically shown.

[0154] In different drawings, the same reference numbers identify the same or similar features. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0155] Figure 1 Detailed Description of the Preferred Embodiments A power line carrier 100 adapted to carry a power line 150 over one or more kerbs according to a first aspect of the invention is shown in FIG. Figure 2 1 shows a transverse cross section of a power line carrier 100 adapted to carry a power line 150 on one or more curbs according to a first aspect of the present invention. The power line carrier is an elongated structure 190 extending in a longitudinal direction 191 and having a transverse cross section 192, such as Figure 1As shown, the transverse cross-section 192 is adapted to be partially embedded in one or more curbs 200. A perimeter 193 of the transverse cross-section 192 includes a first portion 110 adapted to contact the one or more curbs. The transverse cross-section 192 also includes a second portion 120 defining an outer side 121 of the power line carrier 100 oriented away from the one or more curbs 200. The power line carrier 100 includes at least one housing 161 for accommodating at least one, and optionally only one, power point 160 accessible on the outer side 121 of the power line carrier 100. The structure 190 includes at least a first tubular channel 130 extending in a longitudinal direction and having an outer end 131 located near or at one of the transverse sides 132 of the structure 190. The first tubular channel 130 is adapted to accommodate one or more power cables 151 routed along the longitudinal direction 191 of the power line carrier 100. The cables and / or wires are disposed in the first tubular passage 130 between one of the lateral sides 132 of the structure 190 and the one or more housings 161 .

[0156] like Figure 1 As shown, the power line carrier 100 may be provided with a hole 300 for receiving a bolt 301 adapted to place and retain the power line carrier 100 on the surface 201 of the kerb 200. The bolt is bolted into a sleeve inserted into a hole 233 formed in the kerb 200.

[0157] exist Figure 1 and Figure 2 In the embodiment shown, the power line carrier 100 is made of a single, integral component made of rubber or polymer. A reinforcement, such as a nonwoven or woven fiber structure, such as a glass fiber or filament woven fabric 122, may be provided in the upper second portion 120. Four power lines 150 (i.e., four power cables 151) are disposed in the first tubular channel 130 along with four data transmission cables 152.

[0158] Figure 3 1 shows another view of a transverse cross-section of a power line carrier 101 adapted to carry a power line 150 over one or more kerbs according to the first aspect of the invention. Figure 1 A through opening 165 (here a tubular opening) is provided for guiding at least one power cable between the first tubular channel 130 and the housing 161 .

[0159] Figure 41 shows another view of a transverse cross-section of a power line carrier 102 adapted to carry a power line 150 over one or more kerbs according to the first aspect of the invention. Figure 1 A through opening 165 (here a tubular opening) is provided for guiding at least one power cable between the first tubular channel 130 and the housing 161 .

[0160] On the underside of the first portion 110 of the periphery 193 of the transverse cross section 192, a barb 166 is provided to prevent the power line carrier 102 from being easily pulled upward from the wedge-shaped portion (also called a recess) formed in the curb, into which a portion of the first portion 110 of the periphery 193 of the transverse cross section 192 is embedded. The periphery 193 of the transverse cross section 192 is provided with two stuffing box members 167, one for each lateral side of the power line carrier 102, for retaining a seal 168 to be provided between the first portion 110 and the surface 201 of one or more curbs 200.

[0161] exist Figure 1 、 Figure 2 、 Figure 3 and Figure 4 In the embodiment of the present invention, one or more curbstones 200 are oriented so that the surface 201 at the upper portion of the curbstone is substantially flat and horizontal. A V-shaped recess 202 is provided in the curbstone surface, which can be easily provided by grinding two cutouts 203, one along one of the legs of the V-shaped recess. Two substantially horizontal flat surfaces 204 are provided on the upper side of surface 201. The lower side of the first portion 110 of the periphery 193 of the transverse cross-segment 192 terminates at an apex 169. The portion of the first portion 110 of the periphery 193 of the transverse cross-segment 192 that is embedded in the V-shaped recess 202 thus has a V-shaped form defined by the apex 169, two upward-facing sides 162, and two substantially horizontal sides 163.

[0162] Figure 5 2 shows another view of a transverse cross-section of a power line carrier 103 suitable for carrying a power line 150 on one or more curbstones according to the first aspect of the present invention. In this embodiment, the two side surfaces 162 do not coincide at their vertices, but rather are interrupted by lower side surfaces 170. The two side surfaces 163 are not horizontal but rather slope downward. Two inwardly sloping flat surfaces 204 are provided (e.g., by grinding) on ​​the upper side of the curbstone surface 201.

[0163] for Figures 1 to 5 All embodiments shown in Figures 6 to 8In the embodiment of the present invention, the two sides 162 and the two sides 163 provide a first set of pairs of first segments (being each of the sides 162) and second sides (being the corresponding adjacent sides 163), wherein the angle between the first and second segments is equal to or greater than 90° and less than 180°. The structure of the power line carrier can be provided by a polymer, such as an extruded or injection molded polymer, optionally a recycled polymer, such as hard PVC, PE, PP, HDPE, HDPP, epoxy resin or composite material or rubber. The power line can be provided with a plug and / or socket (not shown in the figure) to allow the power line from one power line carrier to be electrically connected to the power line of an adjacent power line carrier.

[0164] Figure 6 , another view of a transverse cross section of a power line carrier 104 suitable for carrying a power line 150 on one or more kerbs according to the first aspect of the invention is shown. The power line carrier 104 comprises a first upper part 401 and a second lower part 402 which together form the power line carrier 104. The first upper part 401 provides a kerb extension 703 according to the fourth aspect of the invention. The second lower part 402 provides a kerb insert 707 according to the third aspect of the invention. The first part and the second part together form the power line carrier 104. The first upper part 401 and the second lower part 402 together form a set of components according to the second aspect of the invention. The first upper part 401 and the second lower part 402 are connected to each other (e.g. glued or welded) to form together the power line carrier 104, which can be connected to Figure 3 The power line carriers 101 are similar or even identical.

[0165] exist Figures 1 to 6 In the embodiment shown, the tubular passage 130 is provided as a substantially circular tubular passage. Figures 1 to 6 The embodiment shown and Figures 7 and 8 In the embodiment shown, the cross-section can also have shapes other than circular, such as elliptical, rectangular, square, or even triangular or polygonal. The tubular channel 130 can be provided during the construction of the power line carrier, for example, during extrusion of a polymer or rubber. The tubular channel can also be provided by introducing a tube of a given cross-section, such as a polymer or steel tube, into the structure of the power line carrier, or by extruding or coating a rubber or polymer around the tube.

[0166] exist Figures 1 to 6 In the embodiment shown, four power cables 151 and four data transmission cables 152 are shown in each case. Figures 1 to 6 The embodiment shown and Figures 7 and 8In the embodiment shown, the number of power cables 151 and / or data transmission cables 152 may be different from four, such as 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 or even more. The number of power cables 151 may be the same as or different from the number of data transmission cables 152. The number of power cables 151 and / or data transmission cables 152 may be the same as or different from the number of power supply points 160 that can be used on the outer side 121 of the power line carrier. The housing 160 may be provided with a closure cover or hood ( Figures 1 to 8 A lock may be provided between the housing and the cover or lid, which lock may be controlled by one or more data transmission cables in the power line carrier.

[0167] The power cables can each carry a plurality of electrical conductors that are electrically insulated from one another.Similarly, the data transmission cables can each carry a plurality of electrical conductors that are electrically insulated from one another.

[0168] Figure 7 FIG2 shows a cross-sectional view of another power line carrier 105 suitable for carrying power lines 150 on one or more curbstones according to the first aspect of the present invention. This power line carrier 105 is provided as a single, integral structure. Side surfaces 162 and 163 form an angle of 90° or greater, for example, up to 100° or 110°, while at the lower side, side surface 162 is bounded and interrupted by lower surface 170. Thus, the portion inserted into the recess in the curbstone has a roughly trapezoidal shape. Similarly, the recess in the curbstone has a similar trapezoidal shape. A rectangular tubular channel 130 is provided in the lower portion of the structure, within which four flat power lines 150 are positioned. Each power line comprises five electrical conductors 155, which may be metal wires or cables, electrically insulated from one another by an insulating material 156. Embedded within the power lines is a data transmission cable 152, which itself may comprise a plurality of electrically isolated electrical conductors, each of which is a conductor of a cable. These flat power lines 150 may be stacked one on top of the other.

[0169] Figure 8 , a view of a transverse cross section of another power line carrier 106 suitable for carrying a power line 150 on one or more curbs according to the first aspect of the invention is shown. The power line carrier 106 comprises a first upper part 401 and a second lower part 402, which together form the power line carrier 104. The first upper part 401 and the second lower part 402 together form a set of components according to the second aspect of the invention. The first upper part 401 and the second lower part 402 are provided with a snap connection 403 connecting the two parts. Further connection means (such as glue) may be provided to connect the two parts. The two parts together form the power line carrier 106, which may be connected to Figure 7The power line carrier 105 is similar or even identical.

[0170] Figure 9 A transverse cross-section of a curb cover 404 according to the fourth aspect of the present invention is shown. Figure 8 The curb cover 404 does not have a housing for receiving a power point. The curb cover 404 can be combined with a curb insert 405, which is connected to the curb cover 404. Figure 8 The lower second portion 402 of the power line carrier 106 is the same.

[0171] Figure 10 A longitudinal section through the power line carrier 106 according to plane BB' is schematically shown. Four power supply points are provided in two groups of two power supply points, each housed in a housing 161a, 161b, 161c and 161d. Each housing can be closed by means of a closure cover 172, which is hingedly connected to the housing and can be sealed watertight and optionally locked. Each housing 161a to 161d is also provided with a set of indicator lights 173, which can indicate the status of the power supply point in the housing. The indicator lights 173 and the lock on the closure cover 172 (if provided) can be controlled by control signals provided by the data transmission cable of the power line 150.

[0172] Four power lines 150a, 150b, 150c, and 150d are disposed within the tubular passage 130 of the power line carrier 106, located between the lateral side 132 of the structure 190 and one of the housings 161a to 161d. Power line 150a is the uppermost power line in the stack of four power lines, extending from the lateral side 132 through the tubular passage 130 and through-opening 165, upward to and into housing 161a. Thus, the uppermost power line extends from the lateral side 132 through the tubular passage 130 and through-opening 165 to the power point and associated housing closest to the lateral side. Power line 150b is the lowermost power line in the stack of four power lines, extending from the lateral side 132 through the tubular passage 130 and through-opening 165, upward to and into housing 161b. Thus, the next power line in the stack of four power lines, from the top, extends from lateral side 132, through tubular passage 130 and through-opening 165, to a power point and associated housing located at the next position in the direction away from lateral side 132. Power line 150d, the lowest power line in the stack of four power lines, extends from lateral side 132, through tubular passage 130 and through-opening 165, upward to housing 161d, and into housing 161d. Thus, the lowest power line extends from lateral side 132, through tubular passage 130 and through-opening 165, to a power point and associated housing located farthest from the lateral side. This ordering of the positions of the power lines and the housings to which they are connected allows for smooth and easy connection without the power lines becoming confused or crossing over.

[0173] In another embodiment of the power line carrier 107, a Figure 11 A curb insert 701 is shown, similar to Figure 9 The kerb insert 401 shown in FIG. In this case, the power line carrier 107 comprises eight housings and eight power supply points 161 a to 161 h.

[0174] The curb insert 701 includes eight stacked power cords 150a to 150h that are ordered and stacked so that the next power cord from the top in the stack of four power cords extends from the lateral side 132 through the tubular channel 130 to the housing at the next position located in the direction away from the lateral side 132. The outer side of the power cord carrier 107 that is visible to the user and once installed includes Figure 8 The two curb extensions 702a and 702b are identical to the curb extensions shown. The two curb extensions 702a and 702b connect the curb insert 701 and extend in the lateral direction by means of Figure 9The kerbstone coverings 403 shown are identical to the kerbstone coverings 703 spaced apart from one another. At the lateral side 132, a bending element 800 is provided to allow the power lines 150a to 150h to bend towards the side of the road or field of which the kerb is part, and thereby allow the power lines 150a to 150h to be electrically connected to the power grid via a distribution device 900 (such as a distribution box). A data cable can also be connected to a control device 901, thereby allowing the distribution of power to one or more power points to be controlled based on data obtained via the data cable, etc. These control devices 901 and distribution devices 900 can be housed in one and the same housing. If the tubular channel 130 is also open at this second lateral side 133, an opposite lateral side 133 (i.e., an end block element 801) can be provided to close the tubular channel 130.

[0175] A method of installing these power line carriers, and therefore a method of providing an integrated power point to a curb, comprises providing a curb with one or more adjacent curbstones. One or more curbstones may be ground or milled to provide an upwardly facing wedge or recess on the top surface of the one or more curbstones. A first part of the power line carrier (optionally only the curbstone insert part) is inserted and connected (e.g. glued) to the side of the one or more curbstones to be contacted. In the case where the power line carrier is provided as a set of parts, one or more curbstone extensions and optionally curbstone covers are connected to the curbstone insert. During or after these steps have been performed, the power point is connected to the power line and these power points are provided in the corresponding housing.

[0176] In a similar manner, the power line carrier may also be mounted in a similar or identical manner in the side or surface of a curb arranged above ground, for example in a side surface or a non-horizontal (eg inclined relative to the horizontal) surface.

[0177] Figure 12 The power line carrier 1000 is shown to include an elongated structure 1190 that is elongated in a longitudinal direction 1191 and has transverse cross sections adapted to be at least partially embedded in a curbstone. The elongated structure is a stainless steel box member provided with a flange 1129. The first portion 1110, i.e. the lower lateral portion 1140 and the transverse walls or side portions 1130 of the structure 1190, is adapted to be embedded in a curbstone 2000, as shown. Figure 13 and Figure 14 The second portion 1120 (in this embodiment, the flange 1129 and the upper closing cover 1128 ) defines the outer side of the power line carrier, ie the side directed away from the curb.

[0178] The power line carrier 1000 comprises a housing 1161 for accommodating at least one power point (in this embodiment, a power point 1160). Figure 12 (not shown), the power point 1160 can be used on the outside of the power line carrier 1000. Figure 12 Starting from the second rotational position shown, in this embodiment and as Figure 12 As shown, the housing will be rotated 90° clockwise around the rotation axis 1169 so that the power supply point 1160 is above the level of the flange 1129 and the upper closure cover 1128. Figure 12 In its second rotational position shown, the side portion 1168 of the housing 1161 forms the top or upper surface of the power line carrier 1160. Between the upper closure cover 1128 and the periphery of the side portion 1168, a seal is provided to watertightly close the edge of the side portion 1168 in the second rotational position.

[0179] A first inlet 1131 and a second inlet 1132 are provided in the structure, one at each of the lateral sides 1130 of the structure. These first inlets 1131 and 1132 are adapted to receive one or more power cables at the lateral sides 1130 of the structure 1110. At least one, and optionally more than one, power cables 1151 are provided in the inlet 1131 between the lateral sides 1130 of the structure and the housing 1161 to provide current and power to the power supply point 1160.

[0180] In an alternative embodiment, one or more inlets are provided in the structure in a bottom wall of the structure near a lateral side of the structure.

[0181] At the upper closure cover 1128 or the side portion 1168 , an identification device 1170 (such as a barcode or a QR code) may be provided for identifying the power supply point 1160 adjacent to the identification device in the housing.

[0182] Figure 13 A curb stone 2000 is schematically shown, which is adapted to receive a Figure 12 Two power line carriers 1000.

[0183] Figure 14 Schematically shows the Figure 13 A curbstone suitable for receiving Figure 12 A power line carrier is provided adjacent to an existing kerb in which a wedge-shaped portion is provided. In the wedge-shaped portion, a kerb covering according to the fourth aspect of the present invention is provided.

[0184] The curb 2000 is adapted to receive two power line carriers 1000 , adjacent to each other in the longitudinal direction 1191 of the structure of the power line carriers 2000 .

[0185] The curb 2000 comprises a recess 2001 for at least partially embedding the elongated structure 1000 of the power line carrier into the recess 2000 .

[0186] like Figure 13 and Figure 14 As shown, at one or both lateral sides 2007, the curb 2000 comprises tubular channels 2010 and 2015 extending in the longitudinal direction between the lateral sides 2007 and the recess 2001 of the curb 2000. The tubular channel or channels are adapted to accommodate one or more power cables.

[0187] At the bottom 2003 of the recess 2001, at least one drainage hole, in this embodiment, one drainage hole 2004, is provided. This drainage hole is adapted to direct fluid (e.g., rainwater) from the recess 2001 through the outer wall of the curb toward the external environment. Thus, the drainage hole opens on the side of the curb 2000 that is oriented toward the road, street, or driveway of which the curb is a part, and opens above the level of the road, street, or driveway. The curb 2000 has a cavity 2020 oriented toward the inside of the curb and extending from the top side 2021 of the curb at least upward to the outer end 2011 of the tubular channel 2010 or 2015 present at one of the lateral sides 2007. In this embodiment, the cavity 2020 is oriented toward the inside of the curb and extends from the top side 2021 of the curb to the bottom side 2022 of the curb. This cavity can be used to manipulate and install power cables and other cables 3001 extending from the adjacently installed curb cover 3000 in the tubular channel 2010 and further through the inlet 1130 or 1131 to the housing 1161. Figure 14 , the sidewalls of structure 1161 are removed for clarity.

[0188] Figure 15 There is schematically shown a kerb 2000 adapted to receive two power line carriers 1000, comprising an elongated structure 1190 that is elongated in a longitudinal direction 1191. The elongated structure is a stainless steel U-shaped structure.

[0189] The power line carrier 1000 comprises a housing 1161 for accommodating at least one power point 1160. When the housing is in the Figure 15 In the first rotational position shown for the left power point, the power point 1160 can be used on the outer side of the power line carrier 1000. Figure 15In the second rotational position, shown for the right power point, power point 1160 can be hidden from view from the outside of power line carrier 1000. Switching between the two rotational positions can be accomplished by activating gas spring 1200. This gas spring is rotatably secured to the underside of 1190 at point 1201. Starting with the power point in the second rotational position, activating the gas spring causes it to extend and push the housing upward, causing it to rotate about its rotation point and rotation axis 1166, located on the upper side of the structure. The housing thus rotates about the rotation axis and brings power point 1160 into a usable position, the first rotational position. It should be understood that this rotation system can be used in combination with any power line carrier according to the present invention. Similarly, it should be understood that other rotation systems suitable for rotating one or more housings of a power line carrier can be used.

[0190] When the housing is in Figure 15 In its second rotational position, shown on the right in the middle, the side portion 1168 of the housing 1161 forms the top or upper surface of the power line carrier 1160. Between the upper closure cover 1128 and the periphery of the side portion 1168, a seal is provided to watertightly seal the edge of the side portion 1168 in the second rotational position.

[0191] A first inlet 1131 and a second inlet 1132 are provided in the structure, one at each of the structure's lateral sides 1131, due to the provision of open lateral sides. These first inlets 1131 and 1132 are adapted to receive one or more power cables at the lateral sides 1130 of the structure 1110. At least one, and optionally more than one, power cable 3001 is provided in the inlet 1131 between the structure's lateral sides 1130 and the housing 1161. Furthermore, a power cable 4001 is connected to the power grid at the control cabinet 4000. Power and data cables 4001 are provided beneath the sidewalk 5000, entering the curb 2000. Additional power cables 3001 may be provided to conduct current and power to adjacent power points in adjacent curbs via the installed curb cover 3000.

[0192] At the side 1168 , an identification device 1170 , such as a barcode or QR code, may be provided for identifying the power supply point 1160 in the housing adjacent to the identification device.

[0193] Figure 15 There is shown schematically a kerb 2000 adapted to receive an adjacent existing kerb in which a wedge is provided. In this wedge a kerb covering according to the fourth aspect of the invention is provided.

[0194] The curb 2000 is adapted to receive two power line carriers 1000 , adjacent to each other in the longitudinal direction 1191 of the structure of the power line carriers 2000 .

[0195] The curb 2000 comprises a recess 2001 for at least partially embedding the elongated structure 1000 of the power line carrier into the recess 2000 .

[0196] At both lateral sides of the curb, the curb has cavities extending downward from the top side 2021 of the curb. These cavities can be used to handle and install power cables and other cables 3001 extending from the adjacently installed curb cover 3000 in the tubular channel 2010 and further through the inlet 1130 or 1131 to the housing 1161. The upper side of the cavity can be closed by the curb's closure member 2008. Alternatively, the upper side of the cavity can be open and a closure cover provided to close the upper side of the cavity when the curb is in use.

[0197] At the bottom of the recess 2001, at least one drainage hole is provided, in this embodiment a number of drainage holes 2004, which are adapted to direct fluids (such as rainwater) from the recess 2001 through the outer wall of the curb towards the external environment. Thus, the drainage hole opens on the side of the curb 2000 that will be oriented towards the road, street or driveway of which the curb is part, and will open above the level of the path, street or driveway.

[0198] The kerb 2000 thus provides a kerb 2000 according to the tenth aspect of the invention. The kerb has a structure, such as a concrete structure or body, which has a recess 2001 accessible from the upper side of the kerb. The kerb comprises two power point holders, also called power line carriers 1000, each for accommodating a power point. The power point holders are arranged as a housing 1161 which can be rotated along an axis by means of a spring 1200. The power point holders are substantially completely embedded in the recess. At the lower side of the power point holders, between the lower side of the power point holders and the bottom of the recess, a gap structure is provided, wherein the kerb 2000 comprises a plurality of drainage holes 2004 which are adapted to guide fluid, such as rainwater, from the gap structure at the bottom of the recess through the outer wall of the kerb towards the external environment.

[0199] Figure 16Another kerb 5000 according to the tenth aspect of the present invention is shown. The kerb 5000 comprises a structure, such as a concrete structure or body, having a recess 5004 accessible from the upper side 5002 of the kerb. The kerb includes two power point holders 5010, also known as power line carriers, each for accommodating a power point 5011. The power point holders are configured as housings that can rotate along an axis 5012 via a spring 5013. The two power point holders 5010 are separated by a wall 5090. The power point holders are substantially completely embedded in the recess. A void structure 5020 is provided on the lower side of the power point holders 5010, between the lower side 5015 of the power point holders and the bottom of the recess 5005. The kerb 5000 includes two drainage holes 5030 adapted to direct fluid (e.g., rainwater) from the void structure 5020 at the bottom of the recess through the outer transverse wall 5007 of the kerb toward the external environment.

[0200] Below the gap structure 5020, below the bottom 5005 of the recess 5004, a channel 5040 as a second tubular channel is provided extending in the lateral direction between the two transverse walls 5007 of the curb structure 5001. In this channel, a plurality of power lines 5041, 5042 and 5043 are provided, wherein Figure 16 Three are shown in FIG. A first power line 5041 extends through the channel 5040 and connects the power supply point of the adjacent curbstone to the grid or power station, etc. Power lines 5042 and 5043 both connect one of the two power supply points 5011 to the grid or power station, etc. Optionally, a data cable ( Figure 16 To access the recess 5004, the channel 5040 has two branches 5045 extending upwards in the recess 5004, one each for the power lines 5042 and 5043.

[0201] Above the two drainage holes 5030, a water-permeable object retaining surface 5060 is provided. The water-permeable object retaining surface 5060 is provided by a water-permeable envelope 5061 made of a wire mesh, which is filled with solid objects, such as gravel 5062. Fluids such as rainwater and dirt that penetrate into the recess will flow downward along the water-permeable object retaining surface 5060. The dirt will be held by the water-permeable envelope 5061 filled with gravel 5062. The water will pass through the water-permeable envelope 5061 filled with gravel 5062. Therefore, the water will be provided to the second channel 5070 defining the void structure 5020 in the curb, which transfers the water to one or both drainage holes 5030. The outer ends of the two branches 5045 extend through the water-permeable object retaining surface 5060 and terminate at a position well above the water-permeable object retaining surface 5060. As Figure 16As shown, the permeable object-retaining surface 5060 can be provided as a tile component, for example, in two parts 5065 and 5066. During curb maintenance, the two power point retaining devices 5010 can be lifted out of the recess 5004, thereby providing access to the two parts 5065 and 5066 of the permeable object-retaining surface 5060. The permeable object-retaining surface 5060 can be cleaned, and dirt accumulated on or in the permeable object-retaining surface 5060 can be removed. Optionally, the permeable object-retaining surface 5060 can also be removed from the recess 5004 during cleaning.

[0202] Although the present invention has been described with reference to specific embodiments, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the present invention is not limited to the details of the aforementioned illustrative embodiments, and that the present invention can be implemented by various changes and modifications without departing from the scope of the invention. Therefore, the embodiments of the present invention should be considered to be illustrative and not restrictive in all aspects, and the scope of the invention is defined by the appended claims rather than by the preceding description, so all changes falling within the equivalent meanings and scope of the claims are intended to be included therein. In other words, it is intended to cover any and all modifications, variations or equivalents that fall within the scope of the basic underlying principle and whose basic properties are claimed in this patent application. In addition, readers of this patent application will understand that the word "comprising / comprise" does not exclude other elements or steps, and the word "a / an" does not exclude multiple, and a / an single element (such as a computer system, a processor or another integrated unit) can implement the functions of the several devices described in the claims. Any figure mark in the claims should not be interpreted as limiting the corresponding claims involved. When used in the specification or claims, the terms "first," "second," "third," "a," "b," "c," etc., are introduced to distinguish between similar elements or steps, and are not necessarily to describe a sequential or chronological order. Similarly, the terms "top," "bottom," "above," "below," etc., are introduced for descriptive purposes and are not necessarily to indicate relative position. It is understood that the terms so used are interchangeable where appropriate, and that embodiments of the present invention are capable of operation in accordance with the present invention in other sequences or orientations than those described or illustrated.

Claims

1. A kerb having a structure, the structure having at least one recess accessible from an upper side of the kerb, the kerb comprising at least one power point holding device for accommodating at least one, optionally only one, power point, the power point holding device being at least partially embedded in the at least one recess, at least one gap structure being provided between a lower side of the at least one power point holding device and a bottom of the recess, wherein the kerb comprises at least one drainage hole adapted to direct fluid, such as rainwater, from the gap structure at the bottom of the recess through an outer wall of the kerb out of the structure. 2 . The curbstone according to claim 1 , wherein the at least one power supply point holding device has at least one opening at a lower side of the at least one power supply point holding device.

3. A kerb according to any one of claims 1 to 2, wherein the kerb further comprises a first tubular channel adapted to accommodate one or more power cables between an outer side of the structure and the recess. 4 . The curbstone of claim 3 , wherein the first tubular channel is a channel positioned adjacent to or below a void structure at a bottom of a recess.

5. A kerb according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the kerb structure is an elongated structure extending in a longitudinal direction.

6. The curbstone of claim 5, wherein at least one recess is an elongated recess extending in the longitudinal direction of the structure.

7. A kerb according to any one of claims 5 to 6, wherein at least first and second drain holes are provided, one at each lateral side of the structure.

8. A kerb according to any one of claims 5 to 7, wherein at least a first drainage hole is provided at one lateral side of the structure.

9. A kerb according to any preceding claim, wherein a water permeable object retaining surface is provided below the underside of the at least one power point retaining means and spaced from the bottom of the recess.

10. The curb of claim 9, wherein the water-permeable object-retaining surface is provided by a metal or polymer mesh, a perforated plate, or a filtration system comprising a water-permeable envelope filled with solid objects (e.g., gravel), biodegradable objects, or the like.

11. A curbstone according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the curbstone further comprises a second tubular channel extending between two mutually opposing sides of the structure of the curbstone, preferably lateral sides of the structure, the second tubular channel being provided with two drainage holes adapted to direct fluid, such as rainwater, from the void structure at the bottom of the recess through the outer wall of the curbstone to the external environment.

12. A kerb according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one power point is rotatable in the power point retaining device between at least a first position and a second position, the power point being adapted to provide a power point accessible from an outer side of the kerb when in the first rotational position, and the power point being concealed from access from an outer side of the kerb when in the second rotational position.

13. The curbstone according to claim 12, wherein the rotation axis or axes of the rotating power supply points are perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the curbstone and parallel to the upper side of the curbstone.

14. A kerb according to any preceding claim, wherein the power point retention means comprises at least a flange for contacting a top side of the kerb when the power point retention means is at least partially embedded in the recess.

15. Use of a curbstone according to any one of claims 1 to 14 for providing an integrated power point at a curb.

16. A curb comprising a plurality of curbstones according to any one of claims 1 to 14.

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