Telecommunication or broadcasting tower comprising a modular outer casing

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to the technical field of towers, also called pylons or masts, and more particularly to a telecommunications or broadcasting tower comprising a modular outer casing.

[0002] Towers, pylons, and masts are commonly used in various fields, including telecommunications, cellular radio communications, terrestrial radio broadcasting, television broadcasting, energy, and any other application requiring a slender vertical support structure of varying heights. They are primarily designed to support telecommunications or broadcasting equipment, including television equipment. In some cases, these towers can also support electrical power generation equipment, such as solar panels or wind turbines.

[0003] Aesthetics, integration into the landscape, and environmental impact, particularly carbon footprint, have become key criteria for choosing skyscrapers and obtaining approval for their construction from local authorities. As a result, so-called integrated, or monotube, skyscrapers have been developed. Monotube skyscrapers are constructed of metal, using smooth helical or faceted metal tubes forming modules that are then assembled to reach the desired height. Radio equipment, panel antennas, microwave links, and signal converter boxes are integrated into the tube at the top of the tower, so that no equipment is visible. Openings in the tube, in front of which the antennas and links are positioned, allow the passage of radio waves.

[0004] However, the existing so-called integrated towers, or single-tube type, described above, have several disadvantages.

[0005] In particular, even a light wind is enough to generate a Von Kármán vortex street and vortex shedding at the rear of the tower. This generates vibrations that can cause fatigue, leading to weld or anchor rod failures and potentially resulting in tower collapse. For existing single-tube towers, the logarithmic decrement of structural damping δs of 0.02, as defined by standards and technical literature, is too low to eliminate or reduce repeated structural displacements due to the Von Kármán phenomenon. Therefore, this type of tower incorporates a liquid damper at its top to increase its total logarithmic damping decrement (structural damping δs and dissipative damping δd) to dampen vibrations. Adding a damper or dissipative element increases the initial cost of the tower, entails additional maintenance costs, and reduces the available space for equipment installation.

[0006] A known telecommunications tower is described in document AT 006 519 U1.

[0007] Furthermore, the requirements for a given tower can change over time. With existing single-tube towers, this often necessitates dismantling the tower to replace or add modules, thus requiring a complete shutdown of transmissions. New radio equipment is often more numerous and larger, demanding more space, making it sometimes impossible to replace existing radio equipment with new.

[0008] In addition, single-tube tower modules are bulky and require special transport, their production cost is high, their delivery time is long, and their carbon footprint is high, particularly due to the amount of steel required for manufacturing.

[0009] In addition, the closed structure of monotube type towers does not allow sufficient ventilation, so that solar radiation causes a temperature increase inside the tower which can lead to premature failures of the integrated equipment.

[0010] Therefore, the prior art solutions proposed for towers still have drawbacks and improvements are possible.

[0011] The present invention aims in particular to replace or adapt single-tube type towers and to solve the problems indicated above by proposing a telecommunications or broadcasting tower comprising an outer casing.

[0012] Thus, the present invention relates to a telecommunications / broadcasting tower comprising a load-bearing structure, the load-bearing structure being configured to be anchored to a foundation element, extending over a predefined height and comprising at least one receiving section capable of receiving at least one radio equipment, such as a telecommunications antenna, characterized in that: the tower further comprises an outer casing consisting of at least one module, comprising: an outer skeleton fixed to the load-bearing structure, and a plurality of slats fixed to the outer skeleton, the assembly of the slats being configured to enclose the load-bearing structure at the level of the outer casing; the outer casing extends at least in relation to at least one receiving section, such that at least one radio equipment is received in an interior space of the tower defined by the outer casing,the outer casing comprising opposite at least one radio equipment at least one of slats of radio-transparent material and a cutout forming an opening in the outer casing, the plurality of slats being fixed to the outer skeleton in such a way that if the logarithmic decrement of structural damping of the supporting structure is less than a predefined value, for at least the module(s) opposite at least one receiving part, a projected area, on a median vertical plane of the tower, of a windward face of at least one module defined by said median vertical plane is, through through openings formed by predefined intervals formed between the slats, less than the projected area of ​​an equivalent solid windward face, in order to at least reduce the formation of a Von Karman vortex street.

[0013] The term "windward face" refers to a half-module cut by a vertical plane containing the median axis of the tower, that is to say, the portion of a module directly receiving an airflow in the event of wind.

[0014] This configuration provides a tower designed to house at least one radio unit, with an excellent aesthetic appearance that allows for seamless integration into the landscape. The slats are arranged to conceal the supporting structure around its perimeter, covering at least part of the tower's height. This results in a tower with a "totem-like" appearance.

[0015] It will be understood that using an opening facilitates the passage of a signal from, or intended for, at least one piece of radio equipment when the slats are made of a radio-transparent material, such as wood, a polymer, or a composite; or allows the passage of a signal when the slats are made of a radio-opaque material, such as metal. It will also be understood that a cover, made of a material more radio-transparent than the cut slats, can be placed in the opening, for example, to conceal or protect the radio equipment.

[0016] For example, in the case of telecommunications antennas, when the attenuation of radio waves from radio equipment placed behind the outer casing is low, or acceptable to the operator, the radio equipment will be totally hidden by the casing, without any opening, and when the attenuation of radio waves from radio equipment behind the casing impairs the quality of the emissions, the radio equipment is then placed in line with an opening formed by cutting slats around the periphery of the radio equipment.

[0017] It will be understood that the foundation element can be permanent or temporary. It will also be understood that the load-bearing structure can be, for example, a metal truss structure, a solid timber structure, a timber frame structure, or a metal tube. It will also be understood that a solid timber structure can be, for example, a column, and that a timber frame structure is formed by assembling structural timber elements, for example, solid timber or glulam. It can be specified that the use of, for example, a metal truss structure or a timber frame structure as the load-bearing structure allows for a lighter tower with a lower carbon footprint than existing monotube towers.

[0018] A predefined gap is between two adjacent slats or between two groups of adjacent slats, each group of slats consisting of several slats (for example, two or three slats) placed side by side without a gap between them. This configuration helps to reduce or eliminate the formation of a Von Kármán vortex street at the rear of the tower, thereby limiting tower vibrations.

[0019] It can be specified that if the structural damping of the supporting structure has a logarithmic decrement of structural damping sufficient to dampen vibrations related to the Von Karman effect, the slats can be fixed without gaps between them. Finally, it should be understood that the cross-sections of the slats can have different shapes, for example, a parallelogram, rectangle, trapezoid, semicircle, or a portion of a circle.

[0020] According to one embodiment, the predefined value of the logarithmic decrement of structural damping of the load-bearing structure is between 0.04 and 0.06, preferably between 0.045 and 0.055, and more preferably is 0.05.

[0021] It can be specified that truss-type structures assembled with ordinary bolts and timber-framed structures generally have respective structural dampings of at least 0.05 and 0.1. These values ​​may be sufficient to dampen the tower in certain configurations of outer envelope diameters, heights, natural frequencies, soil roughness classes and other parameters.

[0022] According to one embodiment, the external skeleton comprises at least two peripheral brackets, each peripheral bracket being fixed to the load-bearing structure so as to extend peripherally around the load-bearing structure, and the external envelope comprises at least one module among: a module comprising a first peripheral bracket, a second peripheral bracket spaced from the first peripheral bracket along a tower height direction, and slats of the plurality of slats having a first longitudinal end fixed to the first peripheral bracket and a second longitudinal end fixed to the second peripheral bracket;and a module comprising a first peripheral bracket, a second peripheral bracket spaced from the first peripheral bracket along the height direction of the tower, a plurality of fixing bars, a first longitudinal end of which is fixed to the first peripheral bracket and a second longitudinal end of which is fixed to the second peripheral bracket, and slats of the plurality of slats fixed to the fixing bars.

[0023] It will be understood that the two types of modules described above can be combined on the same tower. It will also be understood that a module without fixing bars is particularly suited to arranging the slats parallel to the tower's height, and that a module with fixing bars is particularly suited to arranging the slats perpendicular to the tower's height or inclined to it.

[0024] According to one embodiment, at least one module includes at least one third peripheral console arranged between the first peripheral console and the second peripheral console.

[0025] It will be understood that the third peripheral console is configured to limit deformation of the slats, particularly in case of wind, and that it can serve as a simple stop or be configured for fixing the slats on the third peripheral console.

[0026] According to one embodiment, in a cutting plane perpendicular to the height of the tower, at least one of the peripheral brackets has a circular or polygonal external profile.

[0027] It is understood that the modules therefore preferably have a cylindrical shape. However, it is also understood that the brackets can have other shapes, for example triangular or rectangular, in order to give the modules the desired shape.

[0028] According to one embodiment, the outer envelope comprises at least one of modules of different diameters and modules of different heights.

[0029] It will be understood in particular that each module is independent of the other modules, the modules being preferably joined together in the direction of the height of the tower, to obtain a "totem" appearance and hide the supporting structure, with a gap provided between two consecutive modules allowing work on the slats.

[0030] According to one embodiment, for at least one module, the peripheral brackets are configured such that at least one of the following conditions is met, in order to limit deformation of the outer envelope in case of wind: a peripheral edge of at least one of the first and second peripheral brackets is selectively movable along a height direction of the tower, such that a tensile stress is selectively applied to the slats, where applicable to the fixing bars; a peripheral edge of at least one of the first and second peripheral brackets is pivotally mounted, so as to be able to selectively give an external frustoconical shape to the at least one peripheral bracket, such that the slats, where applicable the fixing bars, are selectively put under tension and flexed towards an outside of the tower;and a peripheral edge of at least one of the first and second peripheral brackets is fixed and inclined to give an external truncated conical shape to at least one peripheral bracket, such that the slats, and where applicable the fixing bars, are flexed towards an outside of the tower during assembly.

[0031] It will be understood that these configurations allow for the application of prestressing to the slats, and where applicable to the fixing bars, in order to limit subsequent deformations of the outer envelope, particularly those caused by wind. It will also be understood that these configurations can potentially be combined for the same module. For a given module, it will be understood, for example, that only one of the first and second peripheral brackets can be configured to apply prestressing to the slats, for example, in tension or bending, or that both the first and second peripheral brackets can be configured to apply prestressing, for example, both in bending, both in tension, or one in bending and the other in tension.It will also be understood that first and second peripheral consoles configured to apply a prestress can possibly be combined with a third peripheral console as described above, possibly configured for fixing the slats on the third peripheral console.

[0032] According to one embodiment, the outer envelope further comprises at least one point connecting element configured to connect two adjacent slats, where appropriate through a predefined interval, so as to limit deformation of said slats in case of wind.

[0033] It will therefore be understood that the point-connecting elements can be configured to join two adjacent slats placed without a predefined gap between them, or to join two adjacent slats placed with a predefined gap between them. Each point-connecting element can, for example, be a staple, a point insert, or a combination of a point insert and at least one of the following: a staple, a nail, or a screw. Point inserts are preferably inserted after the slats have been flexed by any means; the force that caused the slats to bend can optionally be released after the point inserts are inserted. However, it will be understood that the dimensions of the point inserts can be chosen to allow their direct placement, without bending the slats, in which case the point inserts are preferably connected to the adjacent slats, for example, using staples, nails, or screws.

[0034] According to one embodiment, the foundation element is chosen from a foundation element disposed in the ground, a foundation element disposed on the ground and a foundation element disposed on a building roof.

[0035] According to one embodiment, the outer envelope extends over the entire height of the tower.

[0036] It will be understood that, as an alternative, the outer envelope can extend over only a portion of the tower's height.

[0037] According to one embodiment, for at least one module, each slat has a cross-section in the shape of a non-rectangular parallelogram and all the slats are assembled successively in the same direction over the entire periphery of at least one module, such that, in the event of wind, an air intake is facilitated on a first lateral portion of a windward face of at least one module and is limited on a second lateral portion of the windward face of at least one module, thus forming an asymmetrical airflow around at least one module and reducing at least the formation of a Von Karman vortex street.

[0038] According to one embodiment, the plurality of slats includes at least one of: a wooden slat, a slat comprising a recycled polymer, a slat comprising a recyclable polymer and a composite material slat.

[0039] It is clear that the choice of material used for the slats can significantly reduce the steel weight of the tower and its carbon footprint. However, it is also understood that metal slats, for example made of steel or aluminum, can be used on certain parts of the tower.

[0040] According to one embodiment, the plurality of slats are treated to limit water absorption by the slats and ensure a moisture content in the slats of less than 20% by mass, so as to limit attenuation, induced by the slats, of a signal from, or intended for, at least one radio device.

[0041] It is understood that the slats can also be painted or varnished, and that reducing the humidity level can also extend the lifespan of the slats.

[0042] According to one embodiment, a width of at least one predefined interval is constant along said at least one predefined interval.

[0043] According to one embodiment, all predefined intervals are identical.

[0044] According to one embodiment, all the elements of the load-bearing structure and the outer envelope have dimensions and weights that allow transport by a conventional vehicle and assembly of the tower without the use of a lifting crane.

[0045] The invention also relates to a method for leveling a tower according to the invention, after initial assembly, characterized in that the method comprises at least one of the following steps: a) attaching reinforcing elements to the supporting structure, without prior dismantling of the supporting structure, to strengthen the supporting structure, such that a load-bearing capacity of the supporting structure is increased, without altering its external appearance; b) optionally, adding additional members to the supporting structure, without prior dismantling of the supporting structure, to raise the supporting structure beyond the predefined height; attaching at least one additional peripheral bracket to the supporting structure; where appropriate, attaching a plurality of additional fixing bars to the at least one additional peripheral bracket;and attach a plurality of additional slats to at least one additional perimeter bracket, or where appropriate to the additional fixing bars; (c) remove slats and perimeter brackets from the outer envelope, without first dismantling the supporting structure; and replace said perimeter brackets and refit new slats, the new slats being identical or different from the removed slats; (d) replace slats of the outer envelope, without first dismantling the supporting structure; and (e) cut slats, without first dismantling the supporting structure, to form an opening in the outer envelope, and optionally, add retaining bars to fix the longitudinal ends of said cut slats to adjacent uncut slats.

[0046] It will be understood that the tower leveling method is permitted because, for the present invention, the outer casing and the supporting structure are independent of each other, making it possible to modify one independently of the other. It will also be understood that the tower leveling method allows, in particular, for adaptation throughout the tower's lifespan, for example, in cases where radio equipment located in the tower needs to be replaced with radio equipment of different dimensions or weights, or needs to be placed in a different location on the tower or oriented in a different direction.

[0047] The invention also relates to a method for retrofitting an existing telecommunications / broadcasting tower comprising a supporting structure, characterized in that the method comprises a step of: adding to the existing tower an outer casing consisting of at least one module and comprising an outer skeleton and a plurality of slats, said step comprising the substeps of: fixing the outer skeleton to the supporting structure, and fixing the plurality of slats to the outer skeleton, such that the assembly of the slats is configured to enclose the supporting structure at the level of the outer casing; the outer casing extending at least to a receiving portion of the tower capable of receiving at least one radio device, such that the at least one radio device is received in an interior space defined by the outer casing.the outer casing comprising opposite at least one radio equipment at least one of slats of radio-transparent material and a cutout forming an opening in the outer casing, the plurality of slats being fixed to the outer skeleton in such a way that if the logarithmic decrement of structural damping of the supporting structure is less than a predefined value, for at least the module(s) opposite at least one receiving part, a projected area, on a median vertical plane of the tower, of a windward face of at least one module defined by said median vertical plane is, due to through openings formed by predefined intervals formed between the slats, less than the projected area of ​​an equivalent solid windward face, in order to at least reduce the formation of a Von Karman vortex street.

[0048] It will be understood that this retrofit modification process makes it possible, in particular, to provide sufficient space for radio equipment and to conceal the radio equipment while reducing the formation of a Von Kármán vortex street if the logarithmic decrement of structural damping of the supporting structure is insufficient. The predefined value of the logarithmic decrement of structural damping of the supporting structure is preferably between 0.04 and 0.06, more preferably between 0.045 and 0.055, and even more preferably 0.05.

[0049] We will now describe particular embodiments of the present invention, with reference to the attached drawings.

[0050] In these drawings: [ Fig. 1 ] is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of a tower, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, anchored to a foundation element. Fig. 2a ] is a cross-sectional view, at the level of a peripheral bracket, of the tower shown in Figure 1 . [ Fig. 2b ] is a cross-sectional view, at the level of a peripheral bracket, of a tower according to a variant of the tower shown in Figure 1 . [ Fig. 3a ] is a side view of a module, a tower according to a variant of the Figure 1 , with a circular opening. Fig. 3b ] is a side view of a module, a tower according to a variant of the Figure 1 , with a rectangular opening. Fig. 4 ] is an enlarged longitudinal cross-sectional view, at the module level, of the tower of the Figure 1 . [ Fig. 5a ] is an enlarged longitudinal cross-sectional view, at the module level, of the tower of the Figure 1 , after the slats have been bent. [ Fig. 5b ] is an enlarged longitudinal cross-sectional view, at the module level, of the tower of the Figure 1 , after bending the slats and positioning point-connecting elements between the slats. Fig. 6 ] is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the Figure 5b , at the level of the point connection elements. [ Fig. 7 ] is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the attachment of a fixed, peripheral bracket to the load-bearing structure. Fig. 8 ] is a schematic representation of a cross-section of a module of the outer envelope according to a variant of the Figure 2a .

[0051] If we refer first to the Figure 1 It can be seen that a tower 1 is represented therein according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. The tower 1 comprises a load-bearing structure 2 extending over a predefined height and configured to be anchored to a foundation element F, and a modular outer casing 3 fixed to the load-bearing structure 2.

[0052] The load-bearing structure 2 can for example be fixed to the foundation element F using anchor rods, or a sealing section, i.e. a structure similar to that of the tower 1 and the height of the foundation element F, cast into the foundation element F, or plates and bolts in the case where the foundation element F is a temporary foundation element F.

[0053] According to the embodiment shown in the Figure 1 The foundation element F is a rectangular concrete element placed in the ground. However, it should be understood that the structure and positioning of the foundation element F may vary depending on the use of tower 1. Alternatively, the foundation element F could, for example, be placed on the roof of an existing building, particularly in the case of an urban location.

[0054] According to the embodiment shown in the Figure 1 The load-bearing structure 2 is a metal truss structure, for example made of steel or aluminum or other metal alloy, comprising a plurality of vertical members 21, horizontal cross members 22, and diagonal members 23 joined together, for example by bolting, riveting, or welding, to form the load-bearing structure 2. As shown in the Figure 2a The members 21 have an angle iron shape with an "L" cross-section. However, it will be understood that the members 21 can take other forms, for example round, square or circular tubes, or bars, and that the same applies to the crossbeams 22 and the diagonals 23.

[0055] Furthermore, as can be seen on the Figure 2a The members 21 are assembled to form four uprights, such that the cross-sectional profile of the metal truss structure is square. It should be understood, however, that the load-bearing structure 2 could have a triangular profile, or another shape.

[0056] It will also be understood that, depending on the variant, the load-bearing structure 2 may include structural wooden elements in combination with or instead of structural metal elements. The load-bearing structure 2 may, for example, be a solid wooden structure 24, such as a post as shown in the diagram. Figure 2b , a timber frame structure, formed by assembling structural elements made of wood, for example solid wood or glued laminated wood, or a metal tube.

[0057] According to the embodiment shown in the Figure 1 , the supporting structure 2 includes a receiving part 25, disposed at a vertex of the supporting structure 2, configured to receive radio equipment E. Radio equipment E means any transmitting and / or receiving equipment, for example a telecommunications antenna, a panel antenna, a microwave link, a remote radio unit (RRU) or a remote radio head (RRH).

[0058] It will be understood that, depending on the configuration, tower 1 may include several receiving sections 25 and / or that each receiving section 25 may be configured to receive one or more radio equipment E. It will also be understood that the receiving section 25 is not necessarily located at the top of tower 1, but that the higher the receiving section 25 is located, the easier the transmission and reception of the radio equipment E becomes. Tower 1 may have several receiving sections 25 arranged one above the other on the tower 1, each preferably, but not necessarily, corresponding to a module 36 of tower 1.

[0059] Preferably, the receiving part 25 is further configured to receive signal converter boxes configured to work with radio equipment E.

[0060] It will be understood that Tower 1 can potentially be configured to accommodate one or more photovoltaic panels designed to power the integrated equipment of Tower 1 or to supply an electrical grid, for example, the electrical grid of a building or a city. According to an alternative (not shown), the top of Tower 1 could also be configured to accommodate one or more wind turbines, with either a vertical or horizontal axis of rotation.

[0061] According to the invention, the modular outer casing 3 is configured to extend at least in relation to the receiving section 25, so as to define an interior space 34 in which the radio equipment E is received, such that this equipment is at least partially concealed and not visible to a person located outside the tower 1, thereby improving, in particular, the aesthetic appearance of the tower 1. However, as shown in the Figure 1 , the outer envelope 3 preferably extends over the entire height of tower 1, in particular to further improve the aesthetic appearance of tower 1 and facilitate its integration into the landscape.

[0062] According to the invention, the modular outer casing 3 consists of at least one module 36 and comprises an outer frame 31 configured to be fixed to the supporting structure 2, and a plurality of slats 32 configured to be fixed to the outer frame 31. The radio equipment E can be fixed to the supporting structure 2 or to the outer frame 31, preferably by means of a bracket. The fixing can be effected by any means, for example by bolting.

[0063] It can be specified that, according to unrepresented variants, if the structural damping of the load-bearing structure 2 has a logarithmic decrement of structural damping sufficient to dampen vibrations related to the Von Karman effect, the slats 32 can be fixed without gaps between them over at least part of the height of the outer envelope 3. Truss-type structures assembled with ordinary bolts and timber-framed structures have respective structural dampings of at least 0.05 and 0.1. These values ​​may be sufficient to dampen the tower 1 in certain configurations of outer envelope 3 diameters, heights, natural frequencies, soil roughness classes, and other parameters.

[0064] However, it can be specified that, preferably, the slats 32 are fixed to the external skeleton 31 in such a way that if the logarithmic decrement of structural damping of the load-bearing structure is less than a predefined value, for at least the module or modules 36 in relation to at least one receiving part 25, a projected area, on a median vertical plane of the tower 1, of a windward face of at least one module 36 defined by said median vertical plane is, due to through openings formed by predefined intervals 33 formed between the slats 32, less than the projected area of ​​an equivalent solid windward face.

[0065] It will also be understood that the formation of predefined intervals 33 in the upper third of the outer envelope 3 may be sufficient to reduce the formation of a Von Karman vortex street.

[0066] The term "windward face" refers to a half-module cut by a vertical plane containing the median axis of the tower, that is to say, the portion of a module directly receiving an airflow in the event of wind.

[0067] The predefined value of the logarithmic decrement of structural damping of the load-bearing structure is preferably between 0.04 and 0.06, preferably still between 0.045 and 0.055, and even more preferably is 0.05.

[0068] For the embodiments shown on the Figures 1 à 6 , each slat 32 is configured to be fixed to the outer skeleton 31 in such a way that a plurality of predefined intervals 33 are formed in the outer envelope 3, each predefined interval 33 extending longitudinally between two neighboring slats 32 spaced apart, so as to limit the formation of a Von Karman vortex street at the rear of the tower 1 in the event of wind.

[0069] For the embodiments shown on the Figures 1 , 2a And 2b , a predefined interval 33 is formed between any pair of two neighboring slats 32, and all predefined intervals 33 have the same width, constant over the entire length of the predefined interval 33. It will also be understood that other configurations are possible, for example some slats 22 may be arranged side by side without a predefined interval 33 between them, the predefined intervals 33 could also have different widths from each other, the distribution of the predefined intervals 33 could be regular or irregular on the periphery of the outer envelope 3, or the predefined intervals 33 could have different shapes, for example due to a non-parallel arrangement of the slats 22, for example in a “V”.

[0070] The assembly of the slats 32 of the outer casing 3 thus forms, peripherally, a succession of slats 32 and predefined intervals 33. In the event of wind, such an assembly of the slats 32 makes it possible to at least reduce the formation of a Von Karman vortex street that could normally occur in the case of a slender vertical structure such as a tower 1 according to the present invention, by creating an irregular and non-smooth outer surface for the outer casing 3 and by allowing the passage of air flows through the predefined intervals 33 and through the tower 1. A tower 1 according to the invention therefore does not need to include a liquid damper at its top. It will be understood that part of the air which enters the tower through predefined intervals 33 exits on the other side through other predefined intervals 33, and that another part of the air can also exit through the top of the tower 1 when an opening at the top is left free.

[0071] For the embodiments shown on the Figures 2a And 2b All the slats 32 have a rectangular cross-section. This slat shape has the advantage of simplifying their manufacture. However, it is understood that the cross-section of the slats 32 could, alternatively, have another shape, for example, a parallelogram, trapezoid, semicircle, or portion of a circle. It is understood that modifying the cross-sectional shape of the slats 32 allows the amount of air entering the outer casing 3 to be varied without altering the distribution of the slats 32.

[0072] There Figure 8 presents a variant of a module 36 in which the slats 32 have a cross-section in the shape of a non-rectangular parallelogram and in which all the slats 32 are assembled successively in the same direction over the entire periphery of the module 36, so that, in the case of wind, an air intake is facilitated on a first lateral portion of a windward face of the module 36 and is limited on a second lateral portion of the windward face of the module 36, thus forming an asymmetrical airflow around the module 36 and reducing at least the formation of a Von Karman vortex street.

[0073] The term "windward face" refers to a half module 36 cut by a vertical plane containing the median axis of tower 1, that is to say, the portion of a module 36 directly receiving an airflow in case of wind.

[0074] It will be understood that the configuration presented in Figure 8 allows for better control of the formation of a Von Karman vortex street. It should be understood, however, that this particular configuration of the slats 32 may be reserved for only a portion of the outer envelope 3, for example, a portion of the outer envelope 3 located on the upper third of the tower 1.

[0075] It will also be understood that the passage of airflow through the predefined intervals 33 further allows for ventilation of the tower 1, which prevents overheating of the radio equipment E and avoids premature malfunctions. In addition, the use of certain materials for the slats 32, for example wood, reduces the increase in heat inside the tower 1 due to solar radiation. Moreover, the distal, or apex, and proximal ends of the outer casing 3 can be left open or closed, for example with additional slats 32, to protect the radio equipment E from direct solar radiation, and / or with a bird screen or netting. It will be understood that, preferably, the apex of the outer casing 3 is not completely obstructed, so as to allow air to escape from the top of the tower 1.

[0076] In order to ensure proper operation of the radio equipment E, the outer enclosure 3 is configured to allow signals to pass from the radio equipment E, or intended for it.

[0077] Thus, according to the embodiment shown on the Figure 1 The outer enclosure 3 comprises, opposite the radio equipment E, slats 32 made of radio-transparent material configured to allow the passage of signals. Radio-transparent material is defined as a material whose attenuation, measured in decibels, is low, for example less than 5 dB.

[0078] The 32 slats made of radio-transparent material are preferably made of wood but can also be composed of other materials, for example a recycled polymer, a recyclable polymer, or a composite material, comprising, for example, a matrix of recycled or recyclable polymer and reinforcing fibers, for example, plant fibers. The wood can, for example, be Douglas fir, pine, larch, or any other wood species.

[0079] The use of 32 slats made of wood or recycled material helps to reduce the carbon footprint of Tower 1. These 32 slats can also be painted or varnished to improve Tower 1's integration into the landscape. Furthermore, 32 slats of different shades can be mixed, arranged, or displayed in a monochromatic scheme.

[0080] Furthermore, in many situations, the use of 32 wooden slats makes it easier to integrate tower 1 into the landscape without requiring additional painting, giving tower 1 an ecological and sustainable appearance.

[0081] It will be understood that, in the case of using a material capable of absorbing water, such as wood or a hydrophilic polymer, the variations in the moisture content of the slats 32 during the lifetime of the tower 1 and across seasons must be compatible with the signal attenuation values ​​given by telecommunications operators in their specifications. Thus, the slats 32 can, for example, be treated to limit water absorption and ensure a moisture content in the slats 32 of less than 20% by mass, preferably less than 10% by mass, so as to limit the attenuation, induced by the slats 32, of signals originating from, or intended for, radio equipment E. In the case of wooden slats 32, the wood can be treated to reduce the content of hydrophilic compounds. The slats 32 can also be painted or varnished to reduce water absorption.It will be understood that a reduction in water absorption also helps to increase the lifespan of the slats 32.

[0082] It will also be understood that the other slats 32, that is to say the slats 32 which are not directly arranged opposite a radio equipment E, can be composed, at will, of a radio-transparent material or a radio-opaque material, for example a metal, for example steel or aluminium.

[0083] According to the variants shown on the Figures 3a And 3b The outer casing 3 includes, opposite the radio equipment E, an opening 35 made by cutting the slats 32. The opening 35 may have a circular shape, as shown in the Figure 3a , a rectangular shape, as depicted on the Figure 3b , or any other shape, for example oval or triangular.

[0084] Preferably, the outer casing 3 further includes retaining bars 351, placed inside or outside, for fixing the longitudinal ends of the slats 32, cut to form an opening 35, to adjacent uncut slats 32, for example to prevent movement of the free longitudinal ends and deformation of the cut slats 32.

[0085] It will be understood that one or more radio equipment E can be placed opposite each opening 35.

[0086] It will also be understood that a tower 1 can be configured to receive one or more radio equipment E in relation to slats 32 made of radio-transparent material, and one or more radio equipment E in relation to one or more openings 35.

[0087] According to the embodiments shown on the Figures 3a And 3bEach opening 35 is further closed by a cover 352 made of radio-transparent material, for example wood, polymer, or composite, so as to at least partially conceal the radio equipment E located opposite it. It will be understood, however, that alternatively the opening 35 may be left unobstructed.

[0088] It will also be understood that the use of openings 35 makes it easier to pass signals when the slats 32 are made of a radio-transparent material, for example wood, a polymer or a composite, and that a possible cover 352 is then made of a material more radio-transparent than that of the cut slats 32; or allows the passage of signals, when the slats 32 are made of a radio-opaque material, such as metal.

[0089] According to the embodiments shown on the Figures 1 à 6 The external skeleton 31 comprises a plurality of peripheral brackets 311. The peripheral brackets are preferably made of metal, for example steel, but may also be made of wood, composite, or a combination of metal, wood, and composite. Each peripheral bracket 311 comprises a peripheral edge 312, configured to extend around the supporting structure 2, and fixing lugs 313, extending radially from the peripheral edge 312, configured to fix the peripheral bracket 311 to the supporting structure 2.

[0090] It will be understood that, preferably, each peripheral edge 312 is formed by an assembly of several parts, in particular to facilitate the mounting of the peripheral brackets 311 on the supporting structure 2.

[0091] The fixing brackets 313 can be fixed by any means to the supporting structure 2, for example by welding, but are preferably fixed by a means suitable for facilitating dismantling, such as by screwing, bolting or riveting.

[0092] According to the embodiment shown in the Figure 2a , the fixing brackets 313 of the peripheral brackets 311 are fixed to the members 21 of the load-bearing structure by bolting onto fixing brackets 211 welded to the members 21, while according to the embodiment shown in the Figure 2b The fixing brackets 313 are fixed to the solid wood structure 24 by means of a fixing collar tightened around the solid wood structure 24. In the case of a load-bearing structure 2 made of solid or framed wood, the fixing brackets 313 could also be fixed to the load-bearing structure 2 by screwing or bolting directly into the load-bearing structure 2.

[0093] According to the embodiment shown on the Figures 1 And 2a In a cross-section perpendicular to the height of tower 1, the outer profile of the peripheral brackets 311 is circular. However, alternatively, and as shown on the Figure 2b , the peripheral edges 312 of the peripheral brackets 311 can be formed by successive folds, so that the external profile of the peripheral brackets 311 has a polygonal shape, preferably regular, and presents facets.

[0094] For the embodiment shown in the Figure 2b Each facet receives a slat 32, and predefined intervals 33 are formed at the angles between the facets. However, it will be understood that many other configurations are also possible; for example, each facet can be configured to receive several slats 32 placed side by side or spaced apart; a facet can be configured not to receive a slat 32 in order to form a predefined interval 33; or, for the same peripheral console 311, some facets can be configured to receive more slats 32 than other facets. According to other variants not shown, the peripheral consoles 311 can also have a different shape, for example, a triangular, oval, or rectangular shape.

[0095] For the embodiments shown on the Figures 1 à 6 , and as this is more visible on the Figure 4 The slats 32 are directly fixed to the peripheral edges 312 of the peripheral brackets 311, preferably by bolting. Thus, for each slat 32, a first longitudinal end is fixed to a first peripheral bracket 311 and a second longitudinal end is fixed to a second peripheral bracket 311 offset from the first peripheral bracket 311 along the height direction of the tower 1.

[0096] In this case, an assembly comprising the first and second peripheral consoles 311 connected by slats 32 forms a module 36 of the outer envelope 3.

[0097] As depicted on the Figure 1 , this method of fixing the slats 32 to the peripheral brackets 311 is particularly suitable for positioning the slats 32 in a direction parallel to a height direction of the tower 1.

[0098] According to an alternative (not shown), the slats 32 can be attached to the peripheral brackets 311 by means of fixing bars. The fixing bars are preferably made of metal but can also be made of wood or composite. According to this alternative, the peripheral brackets 311 have the same structure as described above; however, the external frame 31 further comprises fixing bars, one longitudinal end of which is fixed to a peripheral edge 312 of a first peripheral bracket 311, for example by welding, riveting, or bolting, and the other longitudinal end of which is fixed to a peripheral edge 312 of a second peripheral bracket 311 offset from the first peripheral bracket 311 along the height direction of the tower 1. The slats 32 are then fixed to the fixing bars, preferably by bolting or by means of clamps.

[0099] In this case, an assembly comprising the first and second peripheral consoles 311 connected by fixing bars to which slats 32 are attached form a module 36 of the outer envelope 3.

[0100] This method of fixing the slats 32 to the peripheral brackets 311 is particularly suitable for positioning the slats 32 in a direction perpendicular to the height direction of the tower 1, the predefined intervals 33 then also extending in a direction perpendicular to the height direction of the tower 1, i.e. horizontally in use.

[0101] Furthermore, for modules comprising fixing bars and peripheral brackets 311 of circular shape, the slats 32 preferably have an arched shape to give an external cylindrical shape to the outer envelope 3.

[0102] According to the invention, the slats 32 can be fixed by any means to the external skeleton 31, but are preferably fixed by bolting, riveting or screwing, in particular to allow easy dismantling of the slats 32.

[0103] Furthermore, the slats 32 can be fixed to the external skeleton 31 in such a way as to allow dismantling of the slats from inside the tower 1 or from outside the tower 1, for example by fixing the slats 32 on an inside side of the peripheral brackets 311, where applicable fixing bars, or on an outside side of the peripheral brackets, where applicable fixing bars.

[0104] A tower 1 according to the invention comprises at least one module 36 arranged opposite each receiving part 25, generally in the upper part. However, preferably and as shown in the Figure 1 , tower 1 comprises several modules 36 arranged over the entire predefined height of the load-bearing structure 2.

[0105] It will be understood that each module 36 of the outer casing 3 is independent, so the modules 36 can have different diameters and heights. For example, the modules 36 can have heights of 2 m, 4 m, or 6 m, depending on the height of the radio equipment E installed next to them. For instance, modules between 1 m and 2 m high can be used to install microwave links between 0.3 m and 1.20 m high; these are generally placed at the top of the tower 1. Modules of 4 m high can be used to accommodate 3G, 4G, or 5G panels between 1 m and 3 m high. Modules of 6 m high can be used to install microwave links in the upper section, with panel antennas and other equipment below.The modules 36 are preferably placed side by side along the height of the tower 1, with a gap provided between two consecutive modules 36 for the working of the slats 32, and preferably have a constant diameter, in order to cover and hide the supporting structure 2 and obtain a tower 1 with the appearance of a "totem" tower.

[0106] It will also be understood that the diameter of a module is chosen according to the dimensions of the radio equipment E arranged opposite it, so that the internal space 34 defined between the module and the supporting structure 2 allows the radio equipment E to be received.

[0107] It will also be understood that a tower 1 according to the present invention can comprise both modules 36 without fixing bars and modules 36 with fixing bars.

[0108] When the modules 36 are of significant height, for example, greater than 4 m, the slats 32, and where applicable the fixing bars, connecting the first peripheral bracket 311 to the second peripheral bracket 311 are of considerable length, such that they can deform in windy conditions. To resolve this problem, the invention provides several technical solutions.

[0109] According to an embodiment not shown, a module may include a third peripheral console 311, arranged between the first peripheral console 311 and the second peripheral console 311. This third peripheral console 311 may be configured to simply serve as a stop preventing further deformation of the slats 32, and where applicable the fixing bars, towards the inside of the tower 1, or may be configured for fixing the slats 32, and where applicable the fixing bars, to the third peripheral console 311. It will be understood that each module could include a fourth, a fifth and an nth peripheral console 311 arranged between the first and second peripheral consoles 311, as required, and in such a way as not to interfere with the arrangement of the radio equipment E.

[0110] According to the embodiment shown in the Figure 7 In this fixed-type configuration, the mounting brackets 313 of the peripheral brackets 311 are fixed to the supporting structure 2, such that the mounting brackets 313 and the fixing brackets 211 are integral. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the peripheral edge 312 of the peripheral brackets 311 is inclined, giving the peripheral brackets 311 an external frustoconical shape. During assembly, the peripheral brackets 311 are arranged so that the slats 32, and optionally the fixing bars, attached to the peripheral edges 312 of the peripheral brackets 311 are flexed outwards from the tower 1.

[0111] However, according to the embodiment shown on the Figures 4 à 5b The mounting brackets 313 of the peripheral brackets 311 are pivotally mounted on the supporting structure 2, for example, by using a single fixing bolt 315 per mounting bracket 313 or by using a dedicated pivot axis. Furthermore, the external skeleton 31 also includes load-bearing devices 314 mounted between the supporting structure 2 and the peripheral edge 312 of the peripheral brackets 311, the load-bearing devices 314 being configured to apply a force to the peripheral edge 312, so as to exert tension and bend the slats 32. According to the example shown in the Figure 5a , the stress devices 314 apply a pressure force, such that the slats 32 are flexed towards an outside of the tower 1.

[0112] It will also be understood that each peripheral edge 312 is preferably formed by an assembly of several parts, in particular to facilitate tensioning of the slats 32.

[0113] According to the embodiment shown on the Figures 4 à 5b The 314 squeezing devices are of the screw type, for example screw tensioners comprising a threaded tube and one or two threaded rods engaged with the threaded tube, such that a pressure force can be selectively applied to the peripheral edge 312 by screwing, or unscrewing, the 314 squeezing device. It will be understood, however, that the 314 squeezing devices may, alternatively, have another structure and may, for example, be jacks.

[0114] The 314 excitation devices can be operated manually or via a drive system, for example an electric motor, a hydraulic pump or a pneumatic compressor, possibly remotely controlled by wire or wireless means.

[0115] It will also be understood that other configurations are possible, for example the fixing brackets 313 can be fixedly mounted to the supporting structure 2 and the peripheral edges 312 can be pivotally mounted on the fixing brackets 313.

[0116] According to an alternative (not shown), the peripheral brackets 311 can also be configured to allow the peripheral edges 312 to slide along the height direction of the tower 1, and the loading devices 314 can be configured to cause the peripheral edges 312 to move along the height direction of the tower 1, so as to separate the first and second peripheral brackets 311, so that a tensile stress is selectively applied to the slats 32. It will also be understood that for each module 36, the prestresses are applied once all the slats 32 are mounted, and that the peripheral brackets 311 and the loading devices 314 can be configured to allow a combination of loading along the height direction of the tower 1 and bending.

[0117] It will also be understood that pre-stressing the slats 32, in bending outwards or in tension, makes it possible to reduce subsequent deformations of the slats 32 induced by the wind, and in particular to beat against radio equipment, damage it and generate noise.

[0118] Furthermore, according to an unrepresented variant, it will be understood that arched slats 32 could be used instead of slats 32 subjected to bending, in order to limit deformations of the slats 32 in case of wind.

[0119] It will also be understood that a similar configuration, with peripheral brackets 311 and loading devices 314, to that described above, can be used with modules 36 comprising fixing bars, so as to apply bending or tension to the fixing bars, thereby reducing their deformation in windy conditions. Furthermore, according to another variant not shown, it will be understood that arched fixing bars could be used instead of fixing bars subjected to bending, in order to limit deformation of the fixing bars in windy conditions.

[0120] It will also be understood that, preferably, an operating clearance is provided between two successive modules 36 of the tower 1, so that movements of the peripheral edges 312 are permitted without contact between the modules 36, for example a clearance of 20 mm between two successive modules 36 can be used.

[0121] According to the embodiment shown in Figure 5b , the outer envelope 3 further includes point connection elements 37 in the form of point inserts introduced into predefined intervals 33 so as to point connect two neighboring slats 32.

[0122] The point inserts are preferably introduced at the level of a central part of the slats 32, but can also be distributed at several places along the predefined intervals 33.

[0123] In order to introduce the point inserts, the slats 32 are first bent, such that this embodiment can be combined with the embodiment comprising peripheral brackets 311 for bending the slats 32. It will be understood that the point inserts can also be used with the so-called fixed-type embodiment shown in Figure 7 Alternatively, the slats 32 can be bent by another means and then released after the insertion of the point inserts 37. According to another alternative, the point inserts can have dimensions that allow their insertion into predefined intervals 33 without bending the slats 32. The point inserts are then preferably connected to the adjacent slats 32, for example, using staples or screws. According to yet another alternative, the point connecting elements 37 can be staples.

[0124] It will be understood that the point connecting elements 37 are configured to connect two adjacent slats or two adjacent slats separated by a predefined interval 33.

[0125] There Figure 6presents a cross-sectional view of the point inserts 37 introduced between the slats 32. According to this embodiment, the point inserts 37 are introduced in all the predefined intervals 33 and at positions aligned longitudinally in the predefined intervals 33. It will be understood that, alternatively, the point inserts 37 can be introduced only in certain predefined intervals 33, or be offset longitudinally in the predefined intervals 33.

[0126] According to the invention, all the constituent elements of the tower 1, in particular the elements of the load-bearing structure 2 and the outer casing 3, preferably have dimensions and weights chosen to allow for easy transport, for example, using a conventional transport truck, so that multiple transports are not required during the assembly of the tower 1. Furthermore, the dimensions and weights of the elements are preferably chosen to allow for handling without the use of a lifting crane, for example, using manual lifting equipment. Moreover, a tower 1 according to the present invention has the advantage of requiring significantly less steel than an existing monotube tower, which notably allows for a significant reduction in the carbon footprint of the tower 1 and a reduction in its weight.

[0127] Furthermore, a tower 1 according to the invention can be equipped with access ladders but also with work platforms allowing access and maintenance of radio equipment E from inside the tower 1.

[0128] It is known that the requirements associated with a given telecommunications or broadcasting tower can change over time. For example, it may be necessary to install additional radio equipment to meet a new telecommunications standard, to install different types of radio equipment, possibly heavier ones, or to install the radio equipment at a greater height. Current towers require the tower to be dismantled to carry out the associated modifications.

[0129] The present invention allows for continuous evolution of tower 1 at a lower cost throughout its life.

[0130] The present invention therefore also relates to a method of leveling a tower 1 according to the invention, comprising one or more of the steps described below.

[0131] One step consists of attaching reinforcement elements to the load-bearing structure 2, without first dismantling the load-bearing structure 2, in order to strengthen the load-bearing structure 2, so that a load-bearing capacity of the load-bearing structure 2 is increased without changing its external appearance.

[0132] Reinforcing elements can, for example, be additional members 21 added to the load-bearing structure 2, for instance, to double the members 21 already installed. It will be understood that the reinforcing elements can also replace structural elements of the load-bearing structure 2, for example, members 21, crossbeams 22, or diagonals 23. The reinforcing elements can be added along the entire predefined height of the load-bearing structure 2, or only to a lower portion of the load-bearing structure 2. It will also be understood that the reinforcing elements can be configured to be anchored to the foundation element F to which the load-bearing structure 2 is anchored.

[0133] Another step is to optionally add additional members 21 to the supporting structure 2, without first dismantling the supporting structure 2, to raise the supporting structure 2 beyond the predefined height; attach at least one additional perimeter bracket 311 to the supporting structure; where appropriate, attach a plurality of additional fixing bars to at least one additional perimeter bracket 311; and attach a plurality of additional slats 32 to at least one additional perimeter bracket 311, or where appropriate to the additional fixing bars.

[0134] It will be understood that this step allows for the addition of 36 additional modules to the supporting structure 2, possibly after raising the supporting structure 2, for example to place the radio equipment E of tower 1 at a higher height or to add additional radio equipment E.

[0135] Another step consists of dismantling slats 32 and peripheral brackets 311 from the outer envelope 3, without first dismantling the supporting structure 2; and replacing said peripheral brackets 311 and reassembling new slats 32, the new slats 32 being identical or different from the dismantled slats 32.

[0136] The new peripheral brackets 311 may have a different diameter than the disassembled peripheral brackets 311, so as to form modules 36 of different diameters. The slats 32, and where applicable the fixing bars, may also have a different length, so as to form modules 36 of different lengths.

[0137] Another step involves replacing slats 32 of the outer envelope 3, without first dismantling the supporting structure 2, for example to replace damaged slats 32 or to change the material of the slats 32. The structure of the outer envelope 3 described above allows for easy and low-cost replacement of the slats 32.

[0138] Another step involves cutting slats 32, without first dismantling the supporting structure, to form an opening 35 in the outer envelope 3, and optionally, adding retaining bars 351 to fix the longitudinal ends of said cut slats 32 to adjacent uncut slats 32.

[0139] This step allows, for example, an opening 35 to be formed in the outer envelope 3 when it is detected that the slats 32 reduce the propagation of signals from the radio equipment E arranged opposite them too much, or when new radio equipment E is installed in the tower 1.

[0140] Tower 1 according to the invention therefore allows for adaptation, for example in cases where radio equipment E arranged in tower 1 must be replaced by radio equipment E of different dimensions or placed in another location or oriented in another direction.

[0141] It will be understood that each of the steps described above can be carried out without first dismantling the supporting structure 2, so that tower 1 does not need to be removed and the radio equipment E installed in tower 1 can continue to operate normally, without interruption of transmissions during the execution of the steps. One or more modules 36 of the outer casing 3 that obstruct the execution of a step may, if necessary, be temporarily removed and then reinstalled on tower 1 once the step is completed.

[0142] The invention further relates to a method for retrofitting an existing telecommunications / broadcasting tower comprising a load-bearing structure 2, including a step of adding to the existing tower an outer envelope 3 consisting of at least one module 36 and comprising an outer skeleton 31 and a plurality of slats 32.

[0143] Said step comprising the substeps of fixing the outer skeleton 31 to the load-bearing structure 2, and fixing the plurality of slats 32 to the outer skeleton 31, such that the assembly of the slats 32 is configured to wrap the load-bearing structure 2 at the level of the outer envelope 3.

[0144] The outer casing 3 extends at least opposite a receiving part 25 of the tower suitable for receiving at least one radio equipment E, such that the at least one radio equipment E is received in an interior space 34 defined by the outer casing 3, the outer casing 3 includes opposite the at least one radio equipment E at least one of slats 32 of radio-transparent material and a cutout forming an opening 35 in the outer casing 3.

[0145] The plurality of slats 32 is fixed to the external skeleton 31 in such a way that if the logarithmic decrement of structural damping of the load-bearing structure is less than a predefined value, for at least the module or modules 36 opposite at least one receiving part 25, a projected area, on a median vertical plane of the tower 1, of a windward face of at least one module 36 defined by said median vertical plane is, due to through openings formed by predefined intervals 33 formed between the slats 32, less than at least 10% of the projected area of ​​an equivalent solid windward face, in order to at least reduce the formation of a Von Karman vortex street.

[0146] It will be understood that this retrofit modification process can, for example, be applied to existing towers whose load-bearing structure consists of a metal truss, a solid wood structure, a timber frame structure, or a metal tube, with or without a damping device. It will also be understood that a solid wood structure can, for example, be a column, and that a timber frame structure is formed by assembling structural wood elements, for example, solid wood or glued laminated timber.

[0147] It is understood that the particular embodiments which have just been described have been given by way of indication and not limitation, and that modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the present invention, as defined by the attached claims.

[0148] Thus, the invention is not limited by the number of modules on a tower, nor by the spacing between the slats, which depends on the tower's structure and its surrounding environment. The spacing between the slats may be identical or different within a module, or identical or different between two adjacent modules. The modules may be of different sizes and cover all or part of the tower, generally at least the upper portion intended to house the equipment, without the invention being limited in this respect.

Claims

1. - A telecommunication or broadcasting tower (1) comprising a load-bearing structure (2), the load-bearing structure (2) being configured to be anchored to a foundation element (F), to extend over a predefined height and to include at least one receiving portion (25) capable of receiving at least one radio equipment (E), such as a telecommunication antenna, characterized in that : the tower (1) further comprises an outer casing (3) consisting of at least one module (36) comprising : an outer skeleton (31) fixed to the load-bearing structure (2), and a plurality of slats (32) fixed to the outer skeleton (31), the assembly of the slats (32) being configured to encase the load-bearing structure (2) at the outer casing (3) ; the outer casing (3) extends at least facing the at least one receiving portion (25), such that the at least one radio equipment (E) is received in an inner space (34) of the tower (1) defined by the outer casing (3), the outer casing (3) comprising, facing the at least one radio equipment (E), at least one of : slats (32) made of a radiotransparent material and a cut-out forming an opening (35) in the outer casing (3); the plurality of slats (32) being fixed to the outer skeleton (31) such that if the structural damping logarithmic decrement of the load-bearing structure is less than a predefined value, then for at least the module(s) (36) facing the at least one receiving portion (25), a projected area, on a median vertical plane of the tower (1), of a windward face of the at least one module (36) defined by said median vertical plane is, by means of through-openings formed by predefined gaps (33) formed between the slats (32), at least 10% less than the projected area of an equivalent solid windward face, in order at least to reduce the formation of a Von Karman vortex street.

2. - The tower (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the predefined value of the structural damping logarithmic decrement of the load-bearing structure is comprised between 0.04 and 0.06, preferably between 0.045 and 0.055, and more preferably is 0.05.

3. - The tower (1) according to claim 1 or claim 2, characterized in that the outer skeleton (31) comprises at least two peripheral brackets (311), and the outer casing (3) comprises at least one module (36) among: a module (36) comprising a first peripheral bracket (311), a second peripheral bracket (311) spaced from the first peripheral bracket (311) along a height direction of the tower (1), each peripheral bracket (311) being fixed to the load-bearing structure (2) so as to extend peripherally around the load-bearing structure (2), and slats (32) of the plurality of slats (32) of which a first longitudinal end is fixed to the first peripheral bracket (311) and of which a second longitudinal end is fixed to the second peripheral bracket (311) ; and a module (36) comprising a first peripheral bracket (311), a second peripheral bracket (311) spaced from the first peripheral bracket (311) along the height direction of the tower (1), each peripheral bracket (311) being fixed to the load-bearing structure (2) so as to extend peripherally around the load-bearing structure (2), a plurality of fastening bars of which a first longitudinal end is fixed to the first peripheral bracket (311) and of which a second longitudinal end is fixed to the second peripheral bracket (311), and slats (32) of the plurality of slats (32) fixed to the fastening bars.

4. - The tower (1) according to claim 3, characterized in that at least one module (36) comprises at least one third peripheral bracket (311) arranged between the first peripheral bracket (311) and the second peripheral bracket (311).

5. - The tower (1) according to claim 3 or claim 4, characterized in that, in a cross-sectional plane perpendicular to the height of the tower (1), at least one of the peripheral brackets (311) has a circular or polygonal outer profile.

6. - The tower (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the outer casing (3) includes at least one of : modules (36) of different diameters and modules (36) of different heights.

7. - The tower (1) according to any one of claims 3 to 6, characterized in that, for at least one module (36), the peripheral brackets (311) are configured such that at least one of the following conditions is met, so as to limit a deformation of the outer casing (3) in the event of wind : a peripheral edge (312) of at least one of the first and second peripheral brackets (311) is selectively movable along a height direction of the tower (1), such that a tensile stress is selectively applied to the slats (32), where applicable to the fastening bars ; a peripheral edge (312) of at least one of the first and second peripheral brackets (311) is pivot-mounted, so as to be able to selectively confer a frustoconical outer shape on the at least one peripheral bracket (311), such that the slats (32), where applicable the fastening bars, are selectively tensioned and bent toward an exterior of the tower (1) ; and a peripheral edge (312) of at least one of the first and second peripheral brackets (311) is fixed and inclined to confer a frustoconical outer shape on the at least one peripheral bracket (311), such that the slats (32), where applicable the fastening bars, are bent toward an exterior of the tower (1) during assembly.

8. - The tower according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the outer casing (3) further comprises at least one point linking element (37) configured to connect two neighboring slats (32), where applicable through a predefined gap (33), so as to limit a deformation of said slats (32) in the event of wind.

9. - The tower (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the tower (1) is configured to be anchored to a foundation element (F) chosen from among a foundation element (F) arranged in the ground, a foundation element (F) arranged on the ground, and a foundation element (F) arranged on a building roof.

10. - The tower (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that the outer casing (3) extends over an entire height of the tower (1).

11. - The tower (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that, for at least one module (36), each slat (32) has a cross-section having the shape of a non-rectangular parallelogram and all the slats (32) are assembled successively in the same direction over the entire periphery of the at least one module (36), such that, in the event of wind, an air inlet is facilitated on a first lateral portion of a windward face of the at least one module (36) and is limited on a second lateral portion of the windward face of the at least one module (36), thus forming an asymmetrical air flow around the at least one module (36) and at least reducing the formation of a Von Karman vortex street.

12. - The tower (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that the plurality of slats (32) comprises at least one among : a slat (32) made of wood, a slat (32) comprising a recycled polymer, a slat (32) comprising a recyclable polymer, and a slat (32) made of a composite material.

13. - The tower (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that a width of at least one predefined gap (33) is constant along said at least one predefined gap (33).

14. - The tower (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that all the predefined gaps (33) are identical.

15. - The tower (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 14, characterized in that all elements of the load-bearing structure (2) and of the outer casing (3) have dimensions and weights allowing transport by a conventional vehicle and assembly of the tower (1) without using a lifting crane.

16. - A method for leveling a tower (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 15, the method comprising at least one of the following steps : a) fastening reinforcement elements to the load-bearing structure (2), without previously dismantling the load-bearing structure (2), to reinforce the load-bearing structure (2), such that a load-bearing capacity of the load-bearing structure (2) is increased, without modifying its outer appearance ; b) optionally, adding additional members (21) to the load-bearing structure (2), without previously dismantling the load-bearing structure (2), to raise the load-bearing structure (2) beyond the predefined height ; fastening at least one additional peripheral bracket (311) to the load-bearing structure (2) ; where applicable, fastening a plurality of additional fastening bars to the at least one additional peripheral bracket (311) ; and fastening a plurality of additional slats (32) to the at least one additional peripheral bracket (311), or where applicable, on the additional fastening bars ; c) dismantling slats (32) and peripheral brackets (311) of the outer casing (3), without previously dismantling the load-bearing structure (2) ; and replacing said peripheral brackets (311) and reassembling new slats (32), the new slats (32) being identical to or different from the dismantled slats (32) ; d) replacing slats (32) of the outer casing (3), without previously dismantling the load-bearing structure (2) ; and e) cutting slats (32), without previously dismantling the load-bearing structure (2), to form an opening (35) in the outer casing (3), and optionally, adding holding bars (351) to fasten the longitudinal ends of said cut slats (32) to adjacent uncut slats (32).

17. - A method for retrofit modification of an existing telecommunication or broadcasting tower comprising a load-bearing structure (2), the method comprising a step of : adding to the existing tower an outer casing (3) consisting of at least one module (36) and including an outer skeleton (31) and a plurality of slats (32), said step comprising the sub-steps of : fastening the outer skeleton (31) to the load-bearing structure (2), and fastening the plurality of slats (32) to the outer skeleton (31), such that the assembly of the slats (32) is configured to encase the load-bearing structure (2) at the outer casing (3) ; wherein the outer casing (3) extends at least facing a receiving portion (25) of the tower capable of receiving at least one radio equipment (E), such that the at least one radio equipment (E) is received in an inner space (34) defined by the outer casing (3), the outer casing (3) comprising, facing the at least one radio equipment (E), at least one among : slats (32) made of a radiotransparent material and a cut-out forming an opening (35) in the outer casing (3) ; wherein the plurality of slats (32) are fixed to the outer skeleton (31) such that if the structural damping logarithmic decrement of the load-bearing structure is less than a predefined value, then for at least the module(s) (36) facing the at least one receiving portion (25), a projected area, on a median vertical plane of the tower (1), of a windward face of the at least one module (36) defined by said median vertical plane is, due to through-openings formed by predefined gaps (33) formed between the slats (32), at least 10% less than the projected area of an equivalent solid windward face, in order at least to reduce the formation of a Von Karman vortex street.

Images