OUTDOOR DEVICE WITH ELECTRONIC COMPONENT

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The invention relates to an outdoor device with an electronic component arranged in a cavity of the outdoor device in a ready-to-use state. The outdoor device preferably comprises an electrical functional unit of the outdoor device to be operated. The electronic component is, for example, a power supply component or a network component, for example an active coupling element in a network, such as a network switch or network router for this electrical functional unit. The electronic component is arranged in the outdoor device in a ready-to-use state by means of its component housing and is mechanically fixed there. TECHNICAL BACKGROUND

[0002] A mast, as an example of an outdoor device, is a ubiquitous part of the urban and rural landscape. For example, a mast with an electrical light functional unit, i.e., a means of illumination, can be arranged along a road or sidewalk to help drivers and / or pedestrians see or orient themselves better at night. Additionally or alternatively, an electronic information functional unit, such as a traffic sign, traffic light, traffic counter, or toll inspector, can be arranged on a mast and used to observe and control traffic flow on the road or sidewalk. Additionally or alternatively, an observation or monitoring device, such as a camera or traffic counter, can be arranged on a mast as an electrical functional unit that serves to observe and monitor squares or streets.

[0003] Such a mast is preferably an outdoor device of a so-called "Smart City" concept. "Smart City" is a collective term for a holistic development concept that aims to make a landscape, especially cities, efficient, technologically advanced, ecologically and socially inclusive. These concepts should be energy-efficient, low-emission, safe, and cost-effective in order to enable future-oriented solutions such as widespread broadband connectivity, widespread e-mobility, traffic monitoring and surveillance, and / or increased security. For this purpose, the outdoor devices are equipped with electrical functional units, or the existing electrical functional units of the outdoor devices are used in the "Smart City" concept.

[0004] DE 10 2017 215 079 A1 describes a method for detecting road users on a traffic route.

[0005] For example, US 2019 / 0107273 A1 proposes a method for configuring a sensor platform of a street lamp to make lighting more energy efficient, for example by counting or detecting road users.

[0006] In DE 20 2007 011 309 U1, the poles of a street lighting system are equipped with publicly accessible sockets, for example, to enable the electrical charging of vehicles or means of transport, particularly electric vehicles, or to enable the charging of a user's device, such as a laptop or smartphone, using the street lighting system. Access to the socket is initially blocked to prevent unauthorized persons from making the power available free of charge. Access to the socket can be unlocked by a user by authenticating themselves at a terminal or web portal, which causes an electromechanical slider on the pole to release the socket.

[0007] US 2019 / 0273313 A1 describes a mast that, in addition to lighting and traffic signs, also carries RF antennas as functional units. It has a configurable grid structure inside the mast for accommodating radio units and power supplies. A mast door is open to provide access to the units.

[0008] US 2019 / 0226672 A1 proposes designing a light pole with a communications module as an electrical functional unit. This communications module enables connection to a network to integrate antennas located on the light pole into mobile communications networks, such as Wi-Fi, GSM, LTE, etc., and includes network switches, gateways, and routers. Furthermore, the light pole can be equipped with a power module to provide power for peripheral devices, such as sensors, for example, via the power grid or via data lines using Power on Ethernet. The power module can be used to manage the power. A lockable door on the light pole is intended to prevent pedestrians from accessing these modules.

[0009] US Pat. No. 7,813,131 B2 describes a power supply for a street light with LEDs. The power supply housing has a multi-part housing cover with cooling fins. A continuous base plate has holes for the power supply cables. This base plate is positively connected to a magnetic plate inside the pole.

[0010] US 6 912 408 B1, US 2005 / 242908 A1, US 2013 / 200813 A1 and US 2008 / 239632 A1 describe masts that have maintenance openings to provide access to electronic components inside the mast.

[0011] Smart city concepts may require a network to exchange data between the electrical functional unit and a remote network component. This network is a critical network that can be exposed to cyberattacks.

[0012] The Smart City concepts may require a power supply to supply the electrical functional unit with energy.

[0013] The problem with existing solutions is that the outdoor device has very limited space for a power supply or network access. Common and standard housing or support concepts therefore cannot be implemented. A new housing or support solution is required to provide network access and / or power supply.

[0014] On the one hand, this new housing or carrier solution must be robust in order to enable unaffected functionality or operational readiness for network access and power supply despite environmental influences outdoors, such as precipitation, temperature fluctuations, and storms.

[0015] In addition, an increasing number of electrical functional units on an outdoor device or new electrical functional units (such as charging stations for electric vehicles) results in greater energy requirements or power consumption per outdoor device. This greater energy requirement or increased power consumption leads to greater heat generation in components that provide network access and / or the power supply. Due to the limited space in the outdoor device, the greater heat generation leads to faster overheating of the component that provides network access or the power supply. This increases the risk of functional failure of the electrical functional unit. In addition, complex cooling measures such as water cooling, heat pipes, and fans must be used to dissipate heat. These complex cooling measures are expensive, difficult to maintain, and not sufficiently fail-safe in outdoor installations.

[0016] Another problem with existing solutions is that the data exchange between a remote network component, such as a server, a basic network component (backbone component), and an electrical functional unit is not further protected against cyberattacks. An attacker attempting to tamper with the electronic functional unit, for example, cannot yet be detected at a remote network component and can thus cause significant damage to the network and, consequently, to the "Smart City" concept. For example, an attacker could tamper with a lighting or traffic light control, sabotage a charging process for an electric vehicle, and / or illegally intercept data from the electrical functional units for their own purposes. Security-relevant data used in data communication, such as private keys, certificates, IP addresses, or passwords, could also be read out in an unauthorized manner.

[0017] All previous solutions aim to improve the design and security of the outdoor device itself, particularly through complex cooling measures and mechanical or electronic barriers. Such adaptations to existing and already installed outdoor devices (i.e., to existing infrastructure) are expensive and undesirable. Furthermore, these measures are inefficient if the outdoor device is installed in remote (less frequented) outdoor areas. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0018] The invention is based on the object of providing a novel housing or support solution for an electronic component for providing network access and / or power supply for an outdoor device. This housing concept for an electronic component should be particularly suitable for implementation in a space-limited cavity of an outdoor device. In particular, the new housing concept for an electronic component for an outdoor device should enable simple, effective heat dissipation. Furthermore, attempts at attack or tampering should be reliably detected and prevented.

[0019] Another task is compliance with data protection regulations, so that publicly recorded data of an electrical functional unit that is subject to confidentiality is protected from unauthorized access.

[0020] In addition, it should be possible to continue using the existing infrastructure of outdoor devices virtually unchanged. Replacing an already installed outdoor device (such as a mast) to provide additional functionality should be avoided at all costs. Furthermore, no structural changes should be made to the existing outdoor device (such as a mast), such as enlarging an opening or cavity, or attaching additional sensors or locking elements to the existing outdoor device.

[0021] In addition, the cabling effort in an existing outdoor device should be kept to a minimum.

[0022] This object is achieved by the features described in the independent patent claims. Advantageous embodiments of the invention are specified in the dependent claims.

[0023] According to the invention, an outdoor device is proposed with an electronic component arranged in a cavity of the outdoor device in an operationally ready manner. The electronic component is electrically connected to an electrical functional unit of the outdoor device. The electronic component has a component housing. The component housing also serves as a heat sink for the electronic component. The electronic component is mechanically fixed in a cavity of the outdoor device by the component housing. The electronic component or component housing is fixed completely spaced from the interior of the outdoor device. The outdoor device has an opening for inserting the electronic component into the cavity.

[0024] An outdoor device is preferably a device that is permanently installed in an outdoor area, such as a public or private space in a city or rural area. In the outdoor area, this outdoor device is exposed to environmental influences such as weather, vandalism, and accident scenarios.

[0025] For example, an outdoor fixture is street furniture (also called urban furniture). Street furniture is a generic term for items in an outdoor area, a public or private space, in a square, or in a park. Street furniture provides a required function in the public space or serves as information or advertising. For example, lighting fixtures, traffic lights, and traffic signs are considered urban furniture.

[0026] For example, an outdoor device is a fire hydrant, a telephone junction box, a power supply box, an advertising column or a taxi rank.

[0027] For example, and preferably, an external device is a pillar-like hollow body, in particular a mast. A mast is a structure with at least one hollow pillar-like or post-like interior. The base area of ​​a mast is comparatively small compared to its height. The mast primarily serves to mount electrical functional units, such as lighting devices (light masts for street lighting, floodlights, path lights, illuminated signs) and / or units for monitoring and / or directing traffic (signposts, traffic lights, traffic signal systems,

[0028] traffic signs, toll bridges, traffic counters) and / or other electrical components, such as antennas.

[0029] The outdoor device has a hollow space. The hollow space can extend over the entire internal volume of the outdoor device. In this case, the outdoor device is a hollow body, for example, in the form of a hollow cylinder, a hollow cone, or a hollow truncated cone. Alternatively, only a portion of the outdoor device is provided with a hollow space, leaving the remaining part of the outdoor device as a solid and stable part, such as a solid pillar.

[0030] The cross-section of the cavity is, for example, round, oval, triangular, square or polygonal.

[0031] The electronic component is, for example, an active network component of a network, i.e., a physical device required for data exchange (communication and interaction) between a network component remote from the outdoor device and the electrical functional unit. The electronic component can be, for example, or include a gateway, a router, a network bridge, a modem, a wireless access point, a network switch, a network hub, and / or a repeater. The electronic component can also be, or include, a hybrid network component, such as a multilayer network switch, a protocol converter, a bridge router, a proxy server, a firewall, a network address translator, a multiplexer, or a network interface controller.

[0032] The electronic component is preferably a network switch. The network is preferably a Metropolitan Area Network, or MAN for short. The network can be constructed in a specific bus topology, for example as a star bus or as a series bus (so-called daisy chaining). In a daisy chain topology, a number of hardware components are connected in series to form a network. The first electronic component in a first outdoor device is directly connected to the remote network component. The other electronic components are installed in the other masts and each connected to their predecessors (principle of a series connection). This creates a chain, the so-called daisy chain.The signal to and from an electronic component in an outdoor device, here primarily a mast, is now routed via its predecessors to the remote network component, for example a backbone or a server.

[0033] Alternatively or additionally, the electronic component is, for example, a power supply component for an electrical functional unit of the outdoor device. For this purpose, the electronic component preferably comprises a power supply unit, wherein the power supply unit has a first power connection for supplying a component-external power supply and at least one second power connection for tapping a power supply for the functional unit of the outdoor device.

[0034] The electronic component is preferably an active electrical component, which differs from passive electrical components by the presence of electronics inside the component housing.

[0035] The electronic component comprises a component housing. The component housing supports the electronic component. The component housing contains the electronic component, including, for example, a sensor, a control unit, and / or a power supply unit. The component housing serves to protect the electronic component against contact, the ingress of foreign objects and water, as well as shock resistance. The component housing preferably has an IP67 protection rating. The component housing enables operation of the electronic component in an ambient temperature range of -20 to +85°C and an ambient humidity range of 5% to 95%.

[0036] The component housing also serves as the heat sink for the electronic component. The component housing, for example, has a thermal resistance of more than 1.0 K / W. The heat sink increases the heat-dissipating surface of an electronic component located inside the housing. This can prevent potential damage from overheating of the electronic component. To increase the surface area of ​​the component housing, cooling fins and cooling ribs are provided on one or more outer sides of the component housing.

[0037] By designing the component housing as a heat sink, sufficient heat dissipation is ensured, eliminating the need for additional cooling measures such as fans, water cooling, heat pipes, etc. to dissipate the heat generated by the electronic components. The overall design is thus less complex, smaller, and therefore more cost-effective.

[0038] The component housing is preferably made of metal. Aluminum is the preferred housing material due to its excellent weight-to-thermal conductivity ratio. A lower weight is preferable to ensure reliable mechanical fixation in the cavity of the outdoor device with minimal effort.

[0039] The component housing preferably has a maximum dimension that allows easy installation (for installation) and also easy removal (for deinstallation, maintenance, repair) of the electronic component into the cavity of the outdoor device, in particular a hollow mast or a hollow pillar.

[0040] The component housing preferably has minimal dimensions that allow the component housing to be used as a heat sink for the electronic component, whereby internal heat sinks or additional fans / ventilators or other complex heat dissipation (heat pipes, water cooling) should be dispensed with.

[0041] The electronic component is arranged, for example, within a stationary outdoor device. The electronic component is mechanically fixed in a cavity of the outdoor device by the component housing. Fixing the electronic component in the outdoor device enables the electronic component to be permanently held in a defined position and orientation. This provides stability that guarantees the functionality of the electronic component.

[0042] The position and orientation of the component housing should preferably be selected to allow maximum heat dissipation away from the housing. Structural features of the outdoor devices should be taken into account. Preferably, the longitudinal dimension of the component housing in the fixed state corresponds to the longitudinal dimension of the outdoor device. Furthermore, sufficient distance from other heat sources in the cavity of the outdoor device should be maintained.

[0043] The electronic component is fixed completely spaced from the inner side(s) of the external device. Inner sides refer to the inner surfaces of the cavity, i.e., the interior of the external device. This primarily refers to inner side surfaces that are aligned parallel to a longitudinal axis of the external device.

[0044] Preferably, the component housing is arranged centrally within the cavity. This ensures that each side surface of the component housing is sufficiently spaced from the interior surfaces of the outdoor device. The component housing is preferably aligned toward a center point of the cavity. This ensures that the component housing is surrounded by air as evenly as possible, allowing cooler air to flow around all sides of the electronic component. If the electronic component is installed in a mast, this arrangement ensures optimal heat dissipation due to the chimney effect inside the mast, without the need for additional cooling measures such as fans or ventilators.

[0045] The electronic component can be installed and removed from the outdoor device, for example, as an additional component. Thus, the outdoor device can be retrofitted with such an electronic component to provide greater functionality.

[0046] The cavity of the outdoor device is accessible from outside the outdoor device. The cavity has an opening for inserting the electronic component into the cavity. This opening also serves to remove the electronic component from the cavity, for example, to perform maintenance on the outdoor device or to replace the electronic component or the electrical functional unit. The dimensions of this opening are limited due to the structural and static requirements of the outdoor device, so retrofitting an outdoor device requires that the electronic component can be placed and secured in the cavity through this opening.The external dimensions of the component housing are therefore determined by the dimensions of the opening; maximizing the surface area of ​​the component housing to improve heat dissipation is thus limited by the dimensions of the opening. Preferably, a length dimension of the opening is larger than a width dimension of the component housing of the electronic component.

[0047] The opening is preferably mechanically lockable by a door or flap. This ensures that the electronic component is securely housed in the outdoor device and additionally protected against environmental influences such as humidity, temperature, vandalism, and external forces such as collisions (accidents) or storms. Furthermore, the existing infrastructure of the outdoor device can be reused, avoiding the need to replace masts, for example, to provide additional functionality.

[0048] The opening is preferably a standard size for the outdoor device.

[0049] The electronic component is arranged in the outdoor device in a ready-to-use state. Ready-to-use in this context means that the electronic component is supplied with power and is mechanically fixed. Preferably, the power supply for the electronic component within the outdoor device is provided in addition to the power supply of an electrical functional unit of the outdoor device. For example, the power supply for the electronic component could be branched off from the power supply of an electrical functional unit of the outdoor device.

[0050] The electronic component is electrically connected to the electrical functional unit. This connection serves either to supply power from the electronic component to the electrical functional unit or to transmit a data signal between the electronic component and the electrical functional unit, i.e., both to transmit and / or receive the data signal in the electronic component.

[0051] In a preferred embodiment, the outdoor device has a fastening element, wherein the fastening element is preferably arranged in the outdoor device parallel to a longitudinal axis of the outdoor device in order to mechanically fix the component housing in the cavity of the outdoor device parallel to a longitudinal axis.

[0052] The fastening element is preferably mechanically fixed to an inner longitudinal side of the outdoor device in order to mechanically fix the component housing in the cavity of the outdoor device.

[0053] The fastening element is a structural component in the cavity of the outdoor device and is either an integral part of the outdoor device or an additional component of the outdoor device. The fastening element is sufficiently stable to support the component housing in the cavity and to mechanically fix it. The fastening element is, in particular, mechanically detachably and non-detachably connected to the outdoor device at several points. The fastening element is, for example, a rail guide arranged in the cavity of the outdoor device, for example a metal rail, such as a top-hat rail or perforated rail. The fastening element is, for example, welded, screwed or riveted to the outdoor device. The

[0054] Component housings are mechanically fixed directly or indirectly (via holding elements or holding devices).

[0055] In a preferred embodiment, the component housing has at least one holding area on an outer side of the component housing. A holding device engages the holding area in a form-fitting manner. The holding area is, for example, a recess, a depression, a hole or a cavity. In a simple form, the holding area is a hole or a slot into which the holding device engages in a form-fitting and / or force-fitting manner. For this purpose, the holding device has corresponding projections, pins or areas that engage in the holding areas as precisely as possible in order to hold the component housing. Two holding areas are preferably provided on opposite outer sides, preferably a top side and a bottom side, both of which are arranged perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the electronic component.

[0056] The holding device is mechanically or magnetically connected to the fastening element of the outdoor device. This ensures the mechanical fixation of the electronic component. The design with the holding device and holding areas ensures the separation from the interior of the outdoor device, thus enabling airflow around the entire component housing for optimal dissipation of heat generated by the electronic component.

[0057] In a preferred embodiment, the holding element is mechanically detachably connected to the fastening element of the outdoor device by a clamping connection, by a snap-in connection, by a clamp connection and / or by a screw connection.

[0058] These simple connection concepts enable easy installation and removal of the electronic component in the space-limited cavity of the outdoor device.

[0059] In a preferred embodiment, the component housing is the heat sink for a control unit and / or a power supply unit within the component housing of the electronic component. These units are responsible for the majority of the heat generated by the electronic component, and their cooling by the component housing designed as a heat sink reduces the risk of overheating or heat buildup and, as a result, failure / defect of the electronic component.

[0060] In a preferred embodiment, the component housing has at least one elevation on an inner side of the component housing. The elevation is preferably parallel to a base plane of the inner side from which the elevation protrudes. The elevation protrudes into the interior of the

[0061] Component housing. This enables the reduction of a distance between heat-generating units of the electronic component and thus improved thermal coupling for the dissipation of generated heat. Preferably, the control unit and / or the power supply unit is directly opposite the electronic component. More preferably, the control unit and / or the power supply unit makes direct contact with the electronic component. The direct contact also includes placing a heat dissipation plate or a thermal paste between the elevation and the corresponding unit of the electronic component. Preferably, an area of ​​an upper side of the elevation furthest away from the base plane of the inner side is the same size as or larger than the surface of the heat-generating unit in the electronic component.This design eliminates the need for additional heat sinks inside the component housing, allowing the dimensions of the component housing to be reduced without reducing its cooling performance. The raised portion is preferably an integral part of the component housing or of at least one outer part of the component housing. This simplifies the manufacture of the component housing and achieves very good thermal coupling.

[0062] In a preferred embodiment, the electronic component has electrical and / or optical connections exclusively on a top side and / or a bottom side of the electronic component opposite the top side, wherein the top side and the bottom side of the component housing of the electronic component. This top side and / or this bottom side are aligned substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the outdoor device. With such an arrangement, the limited space in the cavity of the outdoor device is optimally utilized for heat dissipation, because the component housing can be maximized in its dimensions in the transverse orientation, which would not be possible if connections were placed on a side surface of the component housing.This also simplifies the design of the component housing, especially when a multi-part housing is planned, as two side panels can be fully covered with cooling fins. Furthermore, cable routing in the cavity of the outdoor device can be optimized without compromising airflow for cooling.

[0063] In a preferred embodiment, the component housing is made up of several parts, with a first side part of the component housing being detachably connected to a second side part of the component housing. The side parts can be combined in an improved manner by appropriate formations, such as tongue and groove joints or tapered portions (lips) on the connecting surfaces, thereby increasing the stability of the

[0064] This improves the component housing's resistance and electromagnetic compatibility. The desired protection rating, for example, IP67, can be easily manufactured. The side panels can have cooling fins on the outside to improve heat dissipation. The side panels are preferably extruded parts.

[0065] The component housing has at least one printed circuit board in a form factor, in particular a PC / 104 form factor.

[0066] The electronic component further preferably comprises a control unit. The control unit has at least one first data connection configured to transmit a data signal between the electronic component and a network component remote from the outdoor device; at least one second data connection configured to transmit a data signal between the electronic component and the functional unit of the outdoor device, wherein the control unit is configured to forward data communication between the remote network component and the electrical functional unit of the outdoor device.

[0067] The electronic component further comprises a sensor on the component housing configured to provide a sensor signal, wherein a control unit of the electronic component is configured to evaluate the received sensor signal; to detect a change in the sensor signal; and to alert a network component remote from the outdoor device when the change in the sensor signal is detected by the control unit.

[0068] The electronic component includes a sensor, also known as a detector or (measured variable or measuring) transducer or (measured) probe. The sensor is a technical component that can measure certain physical properties (e.g., heat quantity, temperature, humidity, pressure, sound field variables, brightness, acceleration) qualitatively or quantitatively as a measured variable. These variables are measured using physical effects and converted into an electrical sensor signal that can be processed by the control unit and provided. The control unit of the electronic component can perform the conversion for provision, or the sensor can perform this conversion and provide the sensor signal.

[0069] The sensor is, for example, attached to the component housing. For this purpose, the sensor is preferably arranged inside the component housing and configured for the property to be detected by means of a passage / through-hole in the component housing and / or a transparent portion of the component housing, in order to be able to detect the physical property prevailing on the outside of the component housing also inside the component housing. Alternatively, the sensor can also be arranged inside the component housing if the detection of the physical property is not impaired by the presence of the component housing, for example, to detect movement of the electronic component.

[0070] The control unit of the electronic component has at least one first data port for transmitting a data signal. This data signal can also be used to receive additional power for the electronic component or control unit to ensure operational readiness within the outdoor device, such as a mast. The data signal would then be combined, for example, with a Power-on-Ethernet signal.

[0071] The at least one first data connection serves to transmit a data signal between the electronic component and a remote network component, for example, a component of a backbone network and / or a data center and / or a server and / or another electronic component integrated into another mast (or outdoor device). The distance between the outdoor device and this remote network component can range from a few meters to several hundred kilometers.

[0072] Preferably, the at least first data connection is connected to a first connection of the electronic component, wherein more preferably the control unit of the electronic component has at least two first data connections, each configured to transmit a data signal between the electronic component and at least the network component remote from the mast, and wherein even more preferably each first data connection is connected to a first connection of the electronic component. Thus, the electronic component can be connected to more than one remote network component or provide a larger data bandwidth for the peripheral devices. The first connection is, for example, a small form-factor plug-abble, or SFP for short, connection in order to save space. Alternatively, a daisy-chain topology of a network can also be set up with two first connections.

[0073] The control unit of the electronic component has at least one second data connection for transmitting a data signal. This data signal can also be used to provide additional power to the electrical functional unit of the outdoor device from the electronic component in order to ensure operational readiness, in particular the power supply, of the electrical functional unit of the outdoor device. The data signal would then be combined, for example, with a Power-on-Ethernet signal.

[0074] Preferably, the at least second data connection is connected to a second connection of the electronic component, wherein more preferably the control unit of the electronic component has at least four second data connections, each configured to transmit a data signal between the electronic component and an electrical functional unit of the outdoor device, and wherein even more preferably every second data connection is connected to a second connection of the electronic component. The number of second data connections is not limited here and could also be eight, twenty-four, or more. Thus, one electronic component enables a wide range of functionality on just one outdoor device. The second connection is, for example, an RJ45-compliant connection.

[0075] A data signal via each second data connection can be individually encrypted. The data signals from different second data connections are thus not interceptable, allowing different service providers to connect to different electrical functional units of the outdoor device via the same device 1 without the service providers being able to intercept each other's data traffic.

[0076] According to the invention, any functional unit on the mast is considered an electrical functional unit of the outdoor device (hereinafter also referred to simply as a peripheral device). The electrical functional unit of the outdoor device can be a sensor or an actuator. This can be an electrical functional unit of the outdoor device (mast) itself, for example, a lighting device, a traffic light system, a traffic signal system, a toll component, and / or an antenna. Additionally or alternatively, the electrical functional unit of the outdoor device can also be a device to be installed on the outdoor device, such as a traffic monitoring unit, an additional traffic light controller, a camera, a wireless network access point (WLAN AP), a mobile radio base station, an electric vehicle charging station, and the like.For example, the electrical functional unit of the outdoor device can be a smart city component, such as a component of a "smart real-world laboratory," with additional intelligent sensors that enable the acquisition of a wide variety of environmental information, particularly regarding traffic, weather, and the environment, and that transform a stationary light pole into a multimodal object carrier with adaptive lighting, power supply, and broadband connection for various sensors.

[0077] The peripheral device includes, for example, sensors for measuring temperature, humidity, emissions, pollutants, road surface, etc. The peripheral device provides, for example, information on traffic flow as a basis for (central or local) traffic flow optimization. The peripheral device provides, for example, information, particularly assistance in finding a free parking space or charging stations for electric vehicles, or for an improved choice of transport, also in connection with current weather conditions. The peripheral device increases security, for example, through targeted surveillance using cameras. The peripheral device could be part of a "gamification" application.

[0078] The control unit of the electronic component is configured to forward data communication between the remote network component and the electrical functional unit of the outdoor device. This forwarding can be unidirectional or bidirectional. Standardized forwarding is preferably used, for example, according to the IEEE 802.1x protocol, in which a Media Access Control (MAC) address of an electrical functional unit of the outdoor device is used to secure data communication.

[0079] According to the invention, the control unit of the electronic component is configured to receive and evaluate the sensor signal from the sensor of the electronic component. The control unit of the electronic component can itself convert a physical effect detected by the sensor to obtain an electrical sensor signal for evaluation. Alternatively, the sensor is already equipped with a conversion unit and provides an electrical sensor signal that is only interrogated by the control unit of the electronic component. The sensor is powered either by the control unit of the electronic component, by the device, or by the sensor itself. The sensor can also be operated with supply energy using an energy harvesting method.

[0080] The control unit of the electronic component is further configured to detect a change in the sensor signal. This can be done, for example, by comparing a value of the sensor signal, such as amplitude, frequency, phase, and / or duration, with a predefined reference value.

[0081] The control unit of the electronic component is also configured to alert the remote network component when a change in the sensor signal is detected.

[0082] This electronic component according to the invention evaluates sensor signals from a sensor on the device's housing and alerts the remote network component if the sensor signal is abnormal. The remote network component can then, as a countermeasure, immediately interrupt the forwarded data connection or relocate it to a quarantine zone in order to quickly counteract a potential attack on the data connection and thus prevent the spying of data or information from the remote network component or the electronic component. This electronic component further secures, in particular, a network node that is located far away from a data center or backbone but has full access to the provided data connection by providing a sensor system that immediately alerts to a potential attack.

[0083] In a preferred embodiment, the sensor generates a sensor signal as a function of the light incident on the sensor, wherein the change in the sensor signal is a sudden or steady increase in the sensor signal amplitude due to an increased light incidence. The sensor is preferably a light sensor, also referred to as a photosensor or photodetector. With such a light sensor, the intensity of light with a suitable wavelength can be measured. The sensor converts light into an electrical signal using a photoelectric effect or displays an electrical resistance that depends on the incident radiation. Since the device is arranged inside the mast, the interior of the mast is not accessible during normal operation, for example through a closed mast door or mast flap, so that during normal operation a defined, almost constant, low light incidence is detected by the sensor.When the mast is opened, for example, by operating a mast door or mast flap, the incident light increases dramatically. The sensor detects this increase and alerts the remote network component.

[0084] In a preferred embodiment, the evaluation of the sensor signal comprises averaging the values ​​of the sensor signal over a predefined period of time (so-called mini-hysteresis). In this way, short-term fluctuations in the physical property to be measured can be averaged out. For example, a flash of light (thunderstorm, etc.) near the mast will not necessarily trigger (false) alarms in the remote network component due to abnormally high light incidence. For example, a gust of wind (storm, etc.) on the mast will not necessarily trigger (false) alarms in the remote network component due to abnormal movement of the housing.

[0085] In a further preferred embodiment, the sensor is a motion sensor, wherein the change in the sensor signal is a sudden or steady increase in the sensor signal amplitude due to a movement of the device's housing. The motion sensor is, for example, an acceleration sensor, an inclination sensor, or a global positioning system (GPS) transmitter. During normal operation, the electronic component is fixed to the stationary mast of the outdoor device and is thus not subject to movement. The motion sensor detects any movement of the housing, for example, if an attacker attempts to tamper with the device's connections or a thief attempts to steal the device. The remote network component is then alerted.

[0086] In a further preferred embodiment, the sensor is a switching element, wherein the change in the sensor signal is a sudden or steady increase in the sensor signal amplitude due to opening the housing of the electronic component. The switching element is arranged in or on the housing in such a way that opening the housing causes a change in the switching state. The switching element is provided, for example, as a microswitch, a reed contact, or a magnetic contact.

[0087] In a preferred embodiment, the control unit of the electronic component is configured to delete and / or overwrite at least safety-relevant information stored in a memory of the device when the change in the sensor signal is detected by the control unit of the electronic component. In an improved embodiment, the entire memory content of the electronic component is deleted or overwritten. This further increases security because, if an abnormality is detected, identified by the change in the sensor signal, the safety-relevant information of the electronic component is deleted. As a result, no data connection will be forwarded, and each peripheral device will lose the data connection to the remote network component.Preferably, the power supply to the peripheral devices (= electrical functional unit) is also deactivated by the control unit of the electronic component, so that access to the data of the peripheral devices is no longer possible.

[0088] The confidential or security-relevant information concerns, on the one hand, configuration information of the electronic component, in particular IP addresses of the remote network component, private cryptographic keys of the electronic component, certificates of the electronic component, signature keys of the electronic component, a configuration file with connection parameter settings or, on the other hand, access passwords, configuration passwords, black lists of or from other electronic components, white lists of or from other electronic components,

[0089] Access settings, and the like. User names and passwords for authentication on the peripheral device are also considered security-relevant information. The electronic component is thus completely unconfigured and can neither establish a data connection to the remote network component nor forward a data connection to / from a peripheral device. Manipulation through data interception or remote peripheral control is thus impossible.

[0090] In a further preferred embodiment, the control unit of the electronic component is configured to only delete and / or overwrite the security-relevant information if the change in the sensor signal is a sudden or steady increase in the sensor signal amplitude due to the opening of the housing of the electronic component and / or due to movement of the housing of the electronic component. Moving the electronic component or opening the housing of the electronic component is always interpreted as an attack, thus forcing deletion. After opening the housing or moving the housing, the electronic component is completely unconfigured and can therefore neither establish a data connection to the remote network component nor forward a data connection to / from a peripheral device. Manipulation through data interception or remote peripheral control is thus ruled out.

[0091] Preferably, at least two sensors are provided. This allows for the use of redundancy in sensor signals to more reliably detect an attack on the device. Furthermore, a two-stage alarm can be created. For example, if a sensor amplitude of the first sensor is detected above a sensor signal threshold, (only) the remote network component is initially alerted. If a sensor amplitude of the second sensor is detected above a sensor signal threshold, further measures are taken in the electronic component itself, such as deleting or overwriting sensitive information.

[0092] In a preferred embodiment, the electronic component further comprises an energy storage device for providing a power supply for the control unit of the electronic component in the event of a device-external power supply failing or being removed. This further ensures the functionality of the sensor of the electronic component and also guarantees energy for erasing or overwriting the memory of the electronic component. This enables operational readiness even without a power supply if the electronic component is disconnected in the event of theft or maintenance.

[0093] Deleting or overwriting is also called "zeroing".

[0094] In a further preferred embodiment, the electronic component has a power supply unit. The power supply unit has a first power connection (for example, the first data connection or an additional connection) for supplying a component-external power supply. The power supply has at least one second power connection for tapping a power supply for the peripheral device, wherein the second power connection provides a Power-on-Ethernet (PoE) power signal that is combined with the data signal to be transmitted between the electronic component and the peripheral device.In this way, each peripheral device and each electrical functional unit of the outdoor device can be supplied via one of the second data ports of the electronic component, thereby reducing cabling in the mast and eliminating the need to provide an additional power supply for the peripheral devices. The power supply is further preferably a power supply unit whose energy consumption is monitored and logged. In this way, abnormalities in the device itself or in the peripheral devices can be detected and reported to the remote network component.

[0095] In a preferred embodiment, the power supply unit of the electronic component has at least one third power connection for tapping a power supply for the control unit of the electronic component. Thus, the power for the control unit of the electronic component is prepared by the electronic component itself and does not need to be provided externally.

[0096] In a further preferred embodiment, the control unit of the electronic component is arranged on a printed circuit board with a standard form factor, preferably PC / 104. Even more preferably, the power supply unit of the electronic component is arranged on a second printed circuit board with a standard form factor, preferably PC / 104. This industry standard enables the miniaturization of the electronic component, so that it can be installed in the outdoor device without having to make any structural changes. Furthermore, this form factor is suitable for providing a large surface area for the device's components, allowing for good heat dissipation. Choosing the same form factor also enables the arrangement of several boards on top of one another, a so-called "stacking," and connecting them via connectors. This improves the electromagnetic compatibility of the components on the board.

[0097] In a preferred embodiment, the peripheral device is authenticated to forward data communication between the remote network component and the peripheral device based on the MAC address of the peripheral device. If authentication of the peripheral device fails, the control unit of the electronic component preferably prevents the forwarding of data communication. Data communication preferably follows the IEEE 802.1x protocol and enables secure communication. The MAC address of the peripheral device is preferably made known in the remote network component. This security ensures that a peripheral device configured on the electronic component cannot be replaced; a different peripheral device connected to the second data port deactivates the data connection to the peripheral device. SHORT DESCRIPTION OF THE CHARACTERS

[0098] The invention and further embodiments and advantages of the invention are explained in more detail below with reference to figures, whereby the figures merely describe exemplary embodiments of the invention. Identical components in the figures are provided with the same reference numerals. Except where specifically marked, the figures are not to be considered true to scale; individual elements of the figures may be exaggeratedly large or oversimplified. Fig. 1A-C shows an embodiment of an outdoor device according to the invention with a closable opening and an electronic component in the cavity of the outdoor device; Fig. 2a-d shows various views of an embodiment of a component housing of an electronic component according to the invention; Fig. 3shows a perspective view of an embodiment of a component housing of an electronic component according to the invention in an exploded view without electrical components; Fig. 4a-d shows different views of a second side part of the Fig. 2 and 3 illustrated component housing of an electronic component; Fig. 5 shows a perspective view of a first side part of the Fig. 2 and 3 illustrated component housing of an electronic component; Fig. 6A-C shows different views of a floor of the Fig. 2 and 3 illustrated component housing of an electronic component; Fig. 7a-d shows different views of a cover of the Fig. 2 and 3 illustrated component housing of an electronic component; Fig. 8shows a perspective view of an embodiment of a component housing according to the invention of an electronic component in an exploded view with electrical components; Fig. 9a-d shows a variant according to the invention for mechanically fixing a component housing of an electronic component in an outdoor device; Fig. 10 shows an embodiment of a simplified block diagram of an electronic component according to the invention within a schematically illustrated mast section; Fig. 11 shows an embodiment of a simplified block diagram of an electronic component according to the invention; Fig. 12 shows an embodiment of a simplified block diagram of an electronic component according to the invention; Fig. 13 shows a scaled embodiment of an exemplary mast in which an electronic component according to the invention is arranged; Fig. 14shows three true-to-scale embodiments of exemplary mast openings through which an electronic component according to the invention is arranged in a mast; and Fig.15 shows an embodiment of a system according to the invention comprising a mast with electronic components arranged therein. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0099] The Figures 1A-C show an embodiment of an outdoor device 2 according to the invention with a closable opening 21 and an electronic component 1 in the cavity of the outdoor device 2.

[0100] Fig. 1A shows the outdoor device 2 as a section of a mast 2. The mast 2 has an opening which is closed by means of a flap or door 22 by a closure element 221 of the flap 22. The closure element 221 operates a mechanical lever (see Fig. 1C ) and is operated using a triangular key.

[0101] The Fig. 1Bshows the Fig. 1A mast 2 with the door 22 removed. The mast 2 is hollow and houses an electronic component 1, which is Fig. 10 to 12 will be discussed in detail. The electronic component 1 is mechanically fixed to a fastening element 24 in the cavity of the mast 2. The Fig. 1B shows no electrical connections, these are explained in detail in the Fig. 10 to 12 received. In Fig. 1B It can be seen that the electronic component 1 has a component housing. This component housing is inserted into the Fig. 2 to 8 shown and described in detail. The component housing is a heat sink for the electronic component 1. The component housing is (in Fig. 1B shown) completely spaced from the round inside of the mast 2. A fastening variant is shown in Fig. 9 presented.

[0102] This order according to Fig. 1Ballows airflow around the electronic component 1 on each of its upper surfaces, thus enabling efficient heat dissipation of the heat generated by the electronic components 1. This arrangement enables operation of the electronic component 1 in the mast 2 without additional cooling measures, such as a heat pipe, a fan, or even water cooling. A chimney effect of the mast 2 ensures sufficient airflow around the electronic component 1 for heat dissipation. Due to the central arrangement in the mast 2, all upper surfaces of the electronic component 1 can be equally airflowed.

[0103] The electronic component 1 can be inserted (installed) into the cavity and removed (uninstalled) again via the opening 21. The dimensions of the opening determine the dimensions of the component housing, which is determined by the scale drawings of the Fig. 13 and 14 with is revealed.

[0104] In Fig. 1C The door 22 of the mast 2 is shown. This door 22 closes the opening 21 during operation of the electronic component 1. Closing is enabled by the locking lever 221 and a triangular key. The mast 2 is thus a conventional mast that is retrofitted with the electronic component 1.

[0105] The Fig. 1A to C Mast 2 with door 22 shown is in the Fig. 13 to 15 presented in detail and reference is made to the corresponding description.

[0106] The Figures 2a-d show four different views of an embodiment of a component housing 6 according to the invention of a Fig. 1 and Fig. 10 to 12 described electronic component 1. In Fig. 2 (a)is a side view of the housing 6. The housing 6 is shown as a four-part construction, consisting of a cover 61, a base 62, a first side part 63 and a second side part 64. The individual parts 61 to 64 are described in the Figures 3 to 7 Indicated is a partial area 65 in the second side part 64, behind which a sensor is arranged to detect an attack on the electronic component 1.

[0107] In Fig. 2 (b)A top view of the housing 6 is shown. The top view clearly shows the external structure of the cover 61 of the housing 6. The cover 61 has four through holes 611. A second data connection of the electronic component 1 will be placed in each of these through holes 611. Furthermore, cooling fins are indicated on the cover 61 of the housing 6, which increase the surface area and thus improve heat dissipation. Furthermore, four screws 66 are shown on the cover 61 of the housing 6, with which the cover 61 is mechanically detachably connected to the side parts 63 and 64 of the housing 6.

[0108] In Fig. 2 (c)A plan view of the base 62 of the housing 6 is shown. In this view, the external structure of the base 62 of the housing 6 is clearly visible. The base 62 has three through holes 621 and 622. Two through holes 621 are provided for the first data connections of the electronic component 1. A further through hole 622 serves as a power connection. In addition, cooling fins 67 are indicated on the base 62 of the housing 6, which increase the surface area and thus improve heat dissipation. In addition, four screws are shown on the base 62 of the housing 6, with which the base 62 is mechanically detachably connected to the side parts 63 and 64 of the housing 6.

[0109] In Fig. 2 (d)A perspective view of the housing 6 is shown. In this view, the external structure of the first side part 63 of the housing 6 is clearly visible. In particular, cooling fins 67 are shown on the outside of the first side part 63 of the housing 6, which increase the surface area and thus improve heat dissipation. The cooling fins 67 run continuously parallel to the longitudinal axis in the y-direction and are shown over the entire outer surface of the first side part 63. Also indicated but not shown are cooling fins 67 on the second side part 64 of the housing 6. Also indicated is the through-hole 65 for a sensor in the second side part 64.

[0110] By installing the component housing 6 in the longitudinal direction of the mast 2, as shown in Fig. 1CAs shown, heat generated inside the component housing 6 is transferred to the outer surfaces of the component housing 6 and distributed there by the cooling fins 67. The arrangement of the cooling fins 67 quasi-parallel to the longitudinal orientation of the mast 2 improves heat dissipation, for example, when the air in the cavity of the mast 2 is colder.

[0111] The Fig. 3 shows a perspective view of an embodiment of a component housing 6 according to the invention of an electronic component 1 in disassembled form (so-called exploded view) without the electronic component 1 (in contrast to Fig. 8 ). In contrast to Fig. 2(d) The component housing 6 is now also shown from the inside. For the external features of the component housing 6, please refer to the previous description of the Fig. 2 referred to.

[0112] The inner top side of the second side part 64 of the component housing 6 features five elevations 641 that protrude into the interior of the component housing. These elevations 641 directly contact corresponding components of a printed circuit board (not shown) (if necessary via additional elements such as thermal paste or thermally conductive pads). This printed circuit board houses a control unit of the electronic component. This control unit is a large heat source and must be cooled during operation of the electronic component. By forming the inside of the second side part 64 with the elevations 641, a good thermal bridge (thermal coupling) is achieved. The entire second side part 64 is made of aluminum and forms a solid heat sink for the electronic component 1. The inner top side of the second side part 64 of the component housing 6 also features two (of four) fastening sleeves 642, by means of which the circuit board is mechanically releasably fixed to the second side part 64.This fixation further increases the thermal coupling.

[0113] In Fig. 3Also shown are eight screws 66 of the housing 6, with which the four parts 61 to 64 of the housing 6 are connected to one another. A seal 68 is placed between the base 62 and the two side parts 63, 64 of the housing 6. A second seal 68 is placed between the cover 61 and the two side parts 63, 64 of the housing 6. The first side part 63 has a first connecting lip 69a, which corresponds to a second connecting lip 69b of the second side part 64. The first side part 63 has a second connecting lip 69b, which corresponds to a first connecting lip 69a of the second side part 64. These connecting lips 69a and 69b enable the side parts 63, 64 to be plugged together, thus increasing the stability of the housing 6 and the electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) of the housing. Through the seals 68 and the connecting lips 69a,

[0114] 69b, a high degree of protection, for example, IP67, is achieved for the housing 6. This high degree of protection guarantees splash protection for the electronic component 1. Thus, the mast 2 can be cleaned with high-pressure water without damaging the electronic component 1.

[0115] In the Figures 4a-d are four different views of the second side part 64 of the Fig. 2 and 3 shown component housing 6 of an electronic component 1.

[0116] In Fig. 4(a) An inside view of the second side part 64 is shown. Here again the Fig. 3 The previously described elevations 641 and fastening sleeves 642 are shown. An area 64 is also shown.

[0117] In Fig. 4(b)A top view of the second side part 64 is shown. Cooling fins 67 and the two connecting lips 69a, 69b are again shown. In this illustration, the difference in thickness between the first connecting lip 69a and the second connecting lip 69b is clearly visible. This difference in thickness enables the two side parts 63 and 64 of the housing 6 to be easily and securely plugged into one another.

[0118] The Fig. 4 (c) shows an outer surface of the second side part 64. Here, too, it can be seen that cooling fins 67 are continuously formed parallel to a longitudinal axis y to enable optimal cooling of the electronic component 1. In particular, the chimney effect of a mast 2 thus quickly dissipates the heat from the respective heat source.

[0119] The Fig. 4 (d)shows again the inside view of the second side part with the elevations 641 and the fastening sleeves 642, as already described with reference to Fig. 3 was presented and described.

[0120] The Fig. 5 shows a perspective view of the first side part 63 of the Fig. 2 and 3 1 of the illustrated component housing 6 of the electronic component 1. The first side part 63 has an internal recess 631 for receiving a power connector 18 (not shown). Also shown are the first connecting lip 69a and the second connecting lip 69b, which correspond to the corresponding connecting lips 69a, 69b of the second side part 64.

[0121] The Figures 6A-C show three views of the floor 62 of the Fig. 2 and 3 illustrated component housing 6 of the electronic component 1. Fig. 6A corresponds to the representation

[0122] the Fig. 2(c)and reference is made to the corresponding description. Fig. 6B shows a front view of the base 62 with the cooling fins 67. Fig. 6B also a raised portion to ensure a good mechanical and stable connection with the two side parts 63, 64 of the housing 6. The Fig. 6C shows a perspective view of the base 62 with the three through holes 621, 622 for the connections 11a, 11b and 18 of the electronic component 1. Cooling fins 67 are also indicated.

[0123] The Figures 7a-d show four different views of the cover 61 of the Fig. 2 and 3 illustrated component housing 6 of the electronic component 1.

[0124] The Fig. 7(a)shows a perspective view of the cover 61 with the four through holes 611 for the connections 12a, 12b, 12c, and 12d of the electronic component 1. Cooling fins 67 are also indicated. The cooling fins 67 are also indicated.

[0125] The Fig. 7(b) corresponds to the representation of the Fig. 2(b) and reference is made to the corresponding description.

[0126] The Fig. 7(c) shows a side view of the cover 61. You can see in Fig. 7(d) also a raised portion to ensure a good mechanical and stable connection with the two side parts 63, 64 of the housing 6.

[0127] The Fig. 7(d) shows a front view of the cover 61 with the cooling fins 67. Fig. 7(d) also the elevation in order to obtain a good mechanical and stable connection with the two side parts 63, 64 of the housing 6.

[0128] The Fig. 8shows a perspective view of the component housing 6 according to the invention of the electronic component 1 according to Fig. 3 in disassembled form (exploded view) but this time with the electrical component1. Fig. 3 The elements already presented will not be repeated here. Four connectors 12a, 12b, 12d, 12d are inserted into the corresponding holes 611 in the cover 61 of the housing. The connectors 12a, 12b, 12d, 12d are selected to be sufficiently stable in order to be able to absorb shear forces during installation and deinstallation in the mast 2 without the respective connector being destroyed. The four connectors 12a, 12b, 12d, 12d are connected to four second data connectors 132a-132d (see Fig. 12 ) of the first board 1a. Please refer to the description of the electrical function in the Fig. 10 to 13 referred to.

[0129] Two SFP connectors 11a and 11b are inserted into the corresponding holes 621 in the base 62 of the housing. The SFP connectors 11a and 11b are selected to be sufficiently stable in order to be able to absorb shear forces during installation and removal into the mast 2 without damaging the respective connector. The two connectors 11a, 11b are connected to two first data connectors 131a, 131b (see Fig. 12 ) of the first board 1a. Please refer to the description of the electrical function in the Fig. 10 to 13 In the bottom 62 of the housing, an energy connection 18 is inserted into the corresponding through-hole 622. The connection 18 is connected to an energy connection 171 (see Fig. 11 ) of the second board 1b.

[0130] The two boards 1a and 1b are also described in detail in the Fig. 10 to 13The circuit boards 1a, 1b are designed in the PC / 104 form factor and are electrically connected to each other by means of a connector 174. The control unit 13 is also indicated on the first circuit board 1a.

[0131] The Figures 9a-d show a variant according to the invention for mechanically fixing a component housing 9 of the electronic component 1. In Fig. 9(a) For this purpose, a holding rail 72 is shown. This holding rail 72 has a first holding element 73, which is mechanically detachably (screwed, not shown) or non-detachably (riveted, welded, shown here) connected to the holding rail 72. The holding rail 72 has a plurality of through-holes in order to be able to connect to a fastening element 24 (not shown) of the Fig. 1B to be able to be mechanically detachably connected. In Fig. 9 (a)In addition, a second holding element 74 is shown, which enables a clamping connection 71 with the holding rail 72 by means of laterally designed clamping lugs (two per side). Fig. 9 (b) The second holding element 74 is mounted on the holding rail 72 so as to be movable in the y-direction. The second holding element 74 can be moved in the y-direction on the holding rail 72 and thus enables a mechanically releasable fixation of the component housing 6 in the cavity of the mast 2, as shown in Fig. 9(c) and (d) is shown.

[0132] In Fig. 9(c) A holding area 60 is shown in the housing 6. The holding area 60 is arranged as a slot in the cover 61 of the housing 6. Not shown is a second holding area 60, which is arranged as a slot in the bottom 62 of the housing 6. A corresponding area of ​​the first or second holding element 74 engages in these slots as holding areas 60, see Fig. 9(d), whereby the holding rail 72 (mechanically connected to a fastening element of the mast 2) is fixed in the cavity of the mast 2 by means of the clamping connection 71.

[0133] Not shown are snap-in and / or screw and / or magnetic and / or clamp connections, with which a mechanical fixation in the cavity of the mast 2 can also be enabled.

[0134] Fig. 10 shows an exemplary embodiment of a simplified block diagram of an electronic component 1 according to the invention within a schematically illustrated mast section of a mast 2 as an example of an outdoor device. This exemplary embodiment makes it possible to expand masts 2 of cities, municipalities, and companies into communication and control nodes, thus enabling a smart city concept.

[0135] Mast 2 is a light mast, as shown in the following Figures 13 to 15will be explained in more detail below. The mast is hollow inside and has a mast opening 21, which can preferably be closed in a nearly light-tight manner by a flap or door (not shown). Located inside the mast 2 is an electronic component 1 according to the invention, hereinafter referred to simply as switch 1, i.e., network switch.

[0136] The switch 1 is integrated into a metal housing with protection class IP67. On the input side, the switch 1 provides at least a first port 11, which is connected in the switch 1 to a first data port 131 of a control unit 13. The first data port 131 is configured to transmit a data signal between the switch 1 and a network component located remotely from the mast 2, hereinafter referred to simply as the data center 4 or backbone 4. The data signal at the first port 11 has a bit rate of 10 Gbit, for example, but could also have only 1 Gbit or 100 Gbit. The data center is, for example, a city or state data center, which may be several hundred kilometers away from the mast 2. The network is a metropolitan area network, or MAN for short. The data signal is preferably connected to the first port 11 via fiber optic cable.The data signal can be transmitted using a mono-mode method if the distance between switch 1 and remote network component 4 exceeds a certain threshold. The data signal can be transmitted using a multi-mode method if the distance between switch 1 and remote network component 4 falls below a certain threshold.

[0137] On the output side, switch 1 has at least one second port 12, which is connected in switch 1 to a second data port 132 of control unit 13. Second data port 132 is configured to transmit a data signal between switch 1 and peripheral device 3. The data signal at second port 12 is, for example, a 1 Gbit Ethernet interface. This data signal preferably has a Power-On-Ethernet (PoE) interface.

[0138] Functionality through which a predefined maximum power, for example, 25W, can be transmitted to the peripheral device 3. The data signal is preferably connected to the second port 12 via copper.

[0139] The Switch 2 has a sensor 14 installed on the housing. This sensor 14 is in Fig. 10 a light sensor connected to a sensor signal connection 133 on the control unit 13. The light sensor is installed on the inside of the housing of the switch 1 to detect incident light entering the mast opening 21. Thus, a portion of the housing of the switch 1 is transparent to the incident light, allowing the sensor 14 located behind the area in the housing to detect the incident light. Alternatively, the housing is provided with a through-hole into which the sensor 14 is placed to detect the incident light. Alternatively, the sensor 14 can also be placed on the outside of the housing of the switch 1.

[0140] During normal operation, the mast opening is closed, so that a constant, very low level of light is detected inside the mast. A mast door could also close the mast opening 21 of mast 2 almost light-tight. If the mast opening 21 is now opened, for example, the mast door or mast flap (not shown) is unlocked or opened, i.e. actuated, significantly more light penetrates the interior of mast 2 (even at night). Sensor 14 detects the increased light incidence and generates an increase (e.g., sudden or steady) in the sensor signal amplitude over a certain period of time. The sensor signal is evaluated in the control unit 13, and this increase is detected. The control unit 13 evaluates this as a deviation from normal operation and informs (alarms) the backbone 4 accordingly.The alarm could be sent to the remote network component 4 if the light sensor 14 detects a predefined illuminance, for example, greater than 10 lux or greater than 7 lux. The control unit 13 provides a trigger delay or averaging of the sensor values ​​(also known as mini-hysteresis) for a specific period of time. This prevents light fluctuations in the range of, for example, a few hundred milliseconds from being considered an alarm. This prevents a false alarm from being triggered during a thunderstorm.

[0141] An alert to Backbone 4 can be the communication of an ID of Switch 1 or a location of Mast 2, or both, with a corresponding error code (light incidence detected). Backbone 4 decides on appropriate measures. It could classify the incident as normal if maintenance on Mast 2 is known in Backbone 4. It could evaluate the incident as an attack and move the existing data connection between Peripheral Device 3 and Backbone 4 to a quarantine area, thus further monitoring the incident in a secure environment. Alternatively, it could terminate the data connection to Switch 1 or

[0142] It could cause the switch to interrupt the data connection between backbone 4 and peripheral device 3. It could order the memory area in control unit 13 to be cleared.

[0143] In any case, Switch 1 is better protected, and in particular, the sensitive data (IP addresses, private keys, signature keys, configuration data, passwords) of Switch 1 are better protected. A mast 2 installed in a remote area with Switch 1 located inside it and directly connected to Backbone 4 is thus better protected against attacks.

[0144] The Fig. 10 The sensor 14 used can alternatively or additionally be a motion sensor or a microswitch. These types of sensors detect movement of the housing or the opening of the housing of the switch 1. These actions are directly interpreted by the control unit as an attack and trigger immediate deletion of the aforementioned sensitive data in the switch's memory. The switch 1 is then no longer configured and can neither establish nor forward a data connection to a backbone 4 nor to a peripheral device 3. Thus, removing the switch 1 or opening the switch 1 does not lead to unauthorized manipulation of the data connection, and reading sensitive data or intercepting information by the attacker is effectively prevented.

[0145] Fig. 11 shows an embodiment of a simplified block diagram of an electronic component 1 according to the invention. The device 1 of the Fig. 11 corresponds to the electronic component 1 of the Fig. 10 and merely contains additional elements, which are referred to below. Fig. 10 Components already presented are not repeated here.

[0146] The electronic component 1, hereinafter referred to as switch 1, has a first circuit board 1a, which includes the control unit 13. The switch 1 also has a second circuit board 1b, which has a power supply unit 17. Both circuit boards 1a, 1b are connected to each other via a connector 174 and are jointly implemented in the metal housing of the switch 1. Preferably, both circuit boards 1a, 1b are standard form factor circuit boards. Both circuit boards 1a, 1b preferably have the PC / 104 form factor. This PC / 104 form factor enables a smaller design of the switch 1, and this smaller design nevertheless simplifies the integration of the switch 1 into a mast 2 with a very small diameter. Both circuit boards 1a, 1b can each have a form factor different from the PC / 104 form factor. This form factor also enables the arrangement of several circuit boards one above the other, a so-called "stacking," and connection via

[0147] Connector 174. This improves the electromagnetic compatibility of the components.

[0148] For example, switch 1 has a third port 18 to which a power supply is applied. This third port 18 is fed to a port 171 of the power supply unit 17. Alternatively, shown here as a dashed line, a power supply is provided via the first port 11, for example, as a PoE signal. In this case, the third port 18 can be omitted, simplifying the design.

[0149] The power supply unit 17 provides a power supply for the peripheral device 3 via a power output 172. This power supply is connected as a PoE signal 19 to the second port 12 of the switch 1 and thus, via a connection together with the data signal of the second data port 132 of the control unit 13, is provided to the peripheral device 3. Using the PoE signals 19 significantly simplifies the cabling effort in the mast 2, and the peripheral devices 3 can be supplied with power from the switch 1. Additional external power sources for supplying the peripheral devices 3 are thus eliminated.

[0150] The power supply unit 17 also provides power to the control unit 13 via a power output 173. This power supply is enabled, for example, via a connector 174. Thus, additional external power sources for supplying the control unit 13 are unnecessary.

[0151] Fig. 12 shows an embodiment of a simplified block diagram of an electronic component 1 according to the invention. The electronic component 1 of the Fig. 12 corresponds to the electronic component 1 of the Fig. 10 and the first board 1a of the Fig. 11 and has further elements referred to below. Fig. 10 and Fig. 11 Components already presented are not repeated here.

[0152] In contrast to Fig. 10 or Fig. 11 are in Fig. 12 Now, two first ports 11a, 11b are provided on switch 1. A first backbone 4a is connected to the first port 11a. A second backbone 4b is connected to the second port 11b. This increases the bandwidth of switch 1 and consequently leads to improved functionality of the peripheral devices 3a to 3d. Alternatively - in Fig. 12 Shown as a dot-dash line, a first backbone 4a is connected to the second port 11b. This increases the bandwidth of switch 1 and consequently leads to improved functionality of the peripheral devices 3a to 3d.

[0153] For example, two 10Gbit SFP modules are used as ports 11a, 11b. The first two ports 11a, 11b are each connected to the first data ports 131a, 131b of the control unit 13.

[0154] In further contrast to Fig. 10 or Fig. 11 are in Fig. 12 Four second ports 12a, 12b, 12c, 12d are now provided on switch 1. A first peripheral device 3a is connected or connectable to the second port 12a. A second peripheral device 3b is connected or connectable to the second port 12b. A third peripheral device 3c is connected or connectable to the second port 12c. A fourth peripheral device 3d is connected or connectable to the second port 12d. The four second ports 12a, 12b, 12c, 12d are each connected to second data ports 132a, 132b, 132c, 132d of the control unit 13. Thus, up to four peripheral devices 3 can be connected to a switch 1 simultaneously. According to the invention, the number of connectable peripheral devices 3 is not limiting; up to 24 peripheral devices 3 can be connected to a switch 1. For example, each peripheral device 3 is provided with a 1 Gbit connection as ports 12a, 12b, 12c, 12d.

[0155] In further contrast to Fig. 10 or Fig. 11 are in Fig. 12 Now at least two sensors 14, 15 are provided in the switch 1. The first sensor 14 is the one in Fig. 10 already described light sensor, whose sensor signal is connected to the sensor signal connection 133 of the control unit 13. The second sensor 15 is the one described in the description of the Fig. 10 The microswitch already mentioned, whose sensor signal (or switching signal) is connected to a second sensor signal connection 134 of the control unit 13. By using two sensors 14, 15 and corresponding evaluation of the sensor signals at the connections 133, 134 of the control unit 13, a two-stage alarm or protection procedure can be applied. Thus, if increased light incidence is detected by the light sensor 14 (= first stage of the attack), only the backbones 4a, 4b could be alerted accordingly, and the Fig. 10 The measures already described can be taken. For example, if switching element 15 detects that the housing has been opened (=second stage of the attack), the sensitive data in the memory of switch 1 could be deleted / overwritten. This maintains the network's operational capability for as long as possible, and opening mast 2 does not automatically lead to an interruption of the data connection. This allows even unannounced maintenance activities to be monitored, maintaining network functionality. However, if the second stage of an attack is detected, the sensitive data can be reliably deleted.

[0156] In further contrast to Fig. 10 or Fig. 11 is in Fig. 12 An energy storage device 16 is now provided. This energy storage device 17, for example, a storage capacitor with several hundred millifarads to several farads, ensures the operation of switch 1 even during brief power supply fluctuations and enables the detection of an attack even when the power supply is removed. This allows sensitive data to be reliably deleted even when the power supply has already been switched off.

[0157] The first board 1a is connected to the second board 1b via a connector 174 and receives three different voltages, namely 50V, 5V, and 3.3V, from the second board 1b via the connector. A power µC uses the provided voltages to provide a supply voltage for the control unit 13 and PoE signals for the four second ports 12a, 12b, 12c, and 12d. Ports 11a and 11b are also supplied with power. The two sensors are not housed on the board 1a, but are placed at suitable locations on the housing and connected to the control unit 13 via a wired connection – via "Sensor I / O" connectors. The control unit 13 is connected to two first ports 11a and 11b and four second ports 12a, 12b, 12c, and 12d.

[0158] In addition, four status LEDs are provided to visualize the status of switch 1 to the outside (outside the housing of switch 1). One of the status LEDs indicates whether a power supply is present, one of the status LEDs indicates whether the switch is switched on, a third status LED is two-colored and indicates whether a data connection to the backbone 4a is present, and a fourth status LED is two-colored and indicates whether a data connection to the backbone 4a or 4b (depending on how it was wired) is present. In addition, four LEDs are provided to indicate the connection status to the respective peripheral device 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d. These LEDs are arranged so that they are visible from the outside via holes in the housing or transparent sections in the housing.

[0159] The board 1a has a service port through which the control unit 13 can be updated and maintained using a driver module.

[0160] The second circuit board 1b, for example, has the third terminal 18, to which a power supply, for example, 110VAC to 230VAC at 50Hz or 60Hz, is applied. This third terminal 18 is fed to a terminal 171 of the power supply unit 17.

[0161] The power supply unit 17 provides a power supply for the peripheral device 3 via a power output 172. For this purpose, a power supply unit with a wide-range input with a

[0162] An output voltage of 50V and 3A is implemented. The power supply's waste heat is dissipated by directly mounting the power supply module onto the metal housing. The housing of switch 1 thus also serves as a heat sink for the power supply. The cooling capacity of the switch's housing 6 is at least 1K / W. This eliminates the need for additional fans or heat pipes. This power supply is connected as a PoE signal 19 via connector 174 to the second port 12 of switch 1 and thus, via a connection together with the data signal from the second data port 132 of the control unit 13, is provided to the peripheral device 3.

[0163] The power supply unit 17 also provides power to the control unit 13 via a power output 173. For this purpose, a DC-DC switching regulator with an output voltage of 5V and 6A is implemented, which is fed from the aforementioned power supply. The power supplies are forwarded, for example, via the connecting plug 174 to the first circuit board 1a. This eliminates the need for additional external power sources to supply the control unit 13 or the peripheral devices 3.

[0164] Fig. 13 shows a true-to-scale embodiment of an exemplary mast 2 in which a switch 1 is installed. The mast has three mast openings 21 arranged one above the other, each of which can be closed using a triangular door lock. Each mast opening 21 can be closed with a mast door measuring 100 x 400 millimeters. The housing of the switch 1 must be able to be inserted into the interior of the mast 2 through this mast door size, so that the external dimensions of the housing are limited to these mast opening sizes. The diameter of the mast 2 at the base of the mast is 246 millimeters. A device bridge runs inside the mast, for example, in the form of a top-hat rail or a rail. The housing 6 of the switch is arranged on this device bridge.

[0165] Fig. 14 shows three true-to-scale embodiments of exemplary mast openings 21 in masts 2, through which a switch 1 according to the invention is arranged in a mast 2. It is intended to provide only one housing 6 for the switch 1, so that the dimensions of the smallest mast opening 21, here those of the mast type LM3-SC, limit the external dimensions of the housing 6 of the switch 1. For the mast type LM3-SC, the diameter at the height of the mast opening 21 is between 130.85 and 136.07 millimeters, and the mast opening 21 has dimensions of 85x300 millimeters.

[0166] Fig. 15 shows an embodiment of a system according to the invention comprising a mast 2 with switch 1 arranged therein. The mast 2 is preferably a mast as shown in the Fig. 13 or 14 Switch 1 corresponds to one of the switches of the Fig. 10 bis 13 .

[0167] The switch 1 is inserted through the mast opening 21 into the interior of the mast 2 and is mechanically fastened to a top-hat rail 24, for example, using a claw, clamp, and / or screw connection. Alternatively, in a well-secured environment, a magnetic connection can also be used to fasten the switch 1 inside the mast 2. The mast 2 has two lighting devices 23 as a functional unit. These lighting devices 23, for example LED lights, are connected either to their own power supply 25 or to a PoE supply 26 of the switch 1 and are supplied with power accordingly.

[0168] A peripheral device 3b, for example a traffic sensor, is attached to the mast 2 and connected to a backbone via the switch 1 by means of a data connection 29, see indicated data connection 27 to the backbone.

[0169] A peripheral device 3a, for example a camera or a WLAN AP, is attached to the mast 2 and connected to a backbone via a data connection 29 via the switch 1, see indicated data connection 27 to the backbone.

[0170] A peripheral device 3c, for example an electric vehicle charging station, is attached to the mast 2 and connected to a backbone via the switch 1 by means of a data connection 29, see indicated data connection 27 to the backbone.

[0171] Within the scope of the invention, all described and / or drawn and / or claimed elements may be combined with one another as desired. BEZUGSZEICHENLISTE

[0172] 1 Electronic component, network component, switch, 1a First circuit board 1b Second circuit board 11, 11a, 11b First data connection 12, 12a, 12b, 12c, 12d Second data connection 13 Control unit 131, 131a, 131b First data connection 132, 132a, 132b, 132c, 132d Second data connection 133 Sensor signal connection 134 Second sensor signal connection 14 Sensor 15 Second sensor 16 Energy storage 17 Energy supply unit 171 First energy connection 172 Second energy connection 172 Third energy connection 174 Connection connection 18 First energy connection 19 Energy signal, PoE 2 Outdoor device, mast 21 Opening 22 Door, flap 221 Locking element 23 Light source, signal, traffic light 24 Fastening element, rail 25 Power supply lamp / charging station 26 Power over Ethernet 27 Data connection to the backbone 28 Power supply 29 Data connection peripheral device (functional unit) 3, 3a, 3b, 3c, 3d Functional unit 4, 4a,4b Removed network component 5 Server 6 Housing 60 Holding area 61 Cover 611 Hole for second data connection 62 Base 621 Hole for first data connection 622 Hole for power connection 63 First side part 631 Recess for power connection 64 Second side part 641 Raised portion 642 Fastening sleeve for circuit board 643 LED areas 65 Hole, partial area for sensor 66 Screw element 67 Cooling fins 68 Seal 69a,b Connecting lip 7 Holding device 71 Clamp connection 72 Holding rail 73 First holding element 74 Second holding element,

Claims

1. An outdoor device (2) with an electronic component (1) arranged operably in a cavity of said outdoor device (2), - wherein said electronic component (1) is electrically connected to an electrical functional unit (3) of said outdoor device (3), - wherein said electronic component (1) has a component housing (6), - wherein said component housing (6) is a heat sink for said electronic component (1), - wherein said electronic component (1) is mechanically fixed by said component housing (6) in a cavity of said outdoor device (2); and - wherein said component housing (6) is fixed completely spaced apart from inner sides of said outdoor device (2), so that air flowing around the entire component housing (6) enables the dissipation of heat generated by said electronic component (1); and - wherein said outdoor device (2) has an opening (21) for inserting said electronic component (1) into the cavity.

2. The outdoor device (2) according to claim 1, wherein said outdoor device (2) is a pillar-like hollow body, in particular a pole.

3. The outdoor device (2) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein said outdoor device (2) has a fastening element (24) in the cavity, wherein said fastening element (24) is arranged in parallel to a longitudinal axis (Y) of said outdoor device (2) in said outdoor device (2) to mechanically fix said component housing (6) in the cavity of the outdoor device (2) and / or wherein the fastening element (24) is mechanically fixed on an inner longitudinal side of said outdoor device (2) to mechanically fix said component housing (6) in the cavity of said outdoor device (2).

4. The outdoor device (2) according to claim 3, wherein said component housing (6) has at least one holding region (60) on an outer side (61, 62) of said component housing (6), wherein a holding device (7) engages with said holding region (60) in a form-fitting manner, wherein said holding device (7) is mechanically or magnetically connected to said fastening element (24) of said outdoor device (2).

5. The outdoor device (2) according to claim 4, wherein said holding device (7) is mechanically connected to said fastening element (24) of said outdoor device (2) by a clamping connection (71), by a latching connection and / or by a screw connection.

6. The outdoor device (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said component housing (6) is the heat sink for a control unit (13) and / or an energy supply unit (17) within said component housing (9) of said electronic component (1).

7. The outdoor device (2) according to claim 6, wherein said component housing (6) has at least one protrusion (641) on an inner side of said component housing (6), wherein said protrusion (641) extends into the interior of said component housing (6) and is directly opposite said control unit (13) and / or said energy supply unit (17) of said electronic component (1) and preferably contacts said control unit (13) and / or said energy supply unit (17) of said electronic component (1) directly.

8. The outdoor device (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said electronic component (1) has electrical and / or optical ports (11, 12, 18) exclusively on one top side and / or a bottom side being opposite said top side, of said component housing (6), wherein said top side and said bottom side of said electronic component (1) are oriented substantially perpendicular to a longitudinal axis (y) of said outdoor device (2)..

9. The outdoor device (2) according to claim 8, wherein said component housing (6) is formed in a plurality of parts (61, 62, 63, 64) and the electrical and / or optical ports (11, 12, 18) are arranged on said component housing (6) in an upper part (61) of said component housing (6) and / or a lower part (62) of said component housing (6).

10. The outdoor device (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said component housing (2) has a plurality of parts, wherein a first lateral part (63) of said component housing (6) is detachably connected to a second lateral part (64) of said component housing (6) in a form-fitting manner.

11. The outdoor device (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said component housing includes at least one printed circuit board (1a) in a form factor, in particular a form factor of PC / 104.

12. The outdoor device (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said electronic component (1) comprises an energy supply unit (17), wherein said energy supply unit (17) includes: - a first energy port (171) for supplying a supply energy external to said component; - at least one second energy port (172) for diverting a supply energy for said electrical functional unit (3) of said outdoor device (2).

13. The outdoor device (2) according to claim 12, wherein said second energy port (172) provides a Power-on-Ethernet (PoE) energy signal combined with a data signal to be transmitted between said electronic component (1) and said electrical functional unit (3) of said outdoor device (2).

14. The outdoor device (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said electronic component (1) comprises a control unit (13), wherein said control unit (13) comprises: - at least one first data port (131) configured to transmit a data signal between said electronic component (1) and a network component (4) remote from said outdoor device (2); and - at least one second data port (132) configured to transmit a data signal between said electronic component (1) and said functional unit (3) of said outdoor device (2), - wherein said control unit (13) is configured to forward data communication between said remote network component (4) and said functional unit (3) of said outdoor device (2).

15. The outdoor device (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, - wherein said electronic component (1) includes a sensor (14, 15) on said component housing (6) configured to provide a sensor signal; and - wherein a control unit (13) of said electronic component (1) is configured to: - evaluate the received sensor signal; - detect a change in the sensor signal; and - alert a network component (4) remote from said outdoor device (2) when the change in the sensor signal is detected by said control unit (13).