Urban infrastructure system

Abstract

A road side infrastructure system 1 having a underground housing 10 that is installed as a foundation and where a cartridge 6 can be removably inserted into the underground housing 10. The cartridge 6

Description

Field of the Invention

[001] The present invention relates to modular infrastructure systems for urban environments. More particularly, it concerns removable and replaceable service cartridge platforms, resilient mounting structures for above-ground devices, and configuration systems for commissioning connected infrastructure. The invention finds application in electric vehicle charging, public lighting, telecommunications, signage, environmental sensing, and other distributed utility services. Background of the Invention

[002] Urban environments increasingly require deployment of distributed infrastructure to support services such as electric vehicle (EV) charging, public lighting, telecommunications, and environmental sensing. These systems often comprise above-ground equipment connected to subterranean utilities via permanent installations involving trenching, fixed plinths, and cabinet-based enclosures.

[003] Existing electric vehicle charge point systems typically involve a dedicated ground-level unit fixed to a concrete foundation or plinth, housing power conversion electronics, communication modules, and user interfaces. Systems of this type include products from Rolec, Pod Point, and others, which require significant civil works during installation and frequently present visual clutter in the urban environment. These systems are generally not designed for modular upgrade or component-level replacement, and routine maintenance may require full unit swap-out and downtime.

[004] While some modular bollard-type housings exist, they are typically restricted to passive safety infrastructure (e.g. flexible or spring-mounted traffic bollards) and lack electrical components or data infrastructure. Impact-tolerant mounts, such as reboundable bases or flex posts, do not generally support power transmission, user interfaces, or diagnostics, and are not intended to be integrated with active smart infrastructure.

[005] Additionally, many known infrastructure systems rely on manual configuration of network settings, often requiring specialist tools or wired interfaces. Field commissioning typically depends on hardwired laptops, USB service ports, or configuration dongles. Although some systems offer Bluetooth or Wi-Fi app-based commissioning, these methods may require proprietary apps or lack access controls.

[006] Regulatory changes are also shaping system requirements. For example, the UK's Smart Charging Regulations mandate features such as randomised delay periods, load balancing, and dynamic control by charge point management systems (CPMS), generally implemented using the OCPP 2.0.1 protocol. These compliance demands increase system complexity and make maintenance and field upgrades more challenging.

[007] Furthermore, many municipalities seek kerbside deployment of multiunit charger arrays or distributed smart posts. The use of trench-laid ducting for clustered installations remains time-consuming and inflexible due to bespoke civil works and the absence of standardised infrastructure cartridges.

[008] There is therefore a need for a modular, serviceable infrastructure platform that enables faster deployment, simplified maintenance, scalable configuration, resilience to physical impact, and future-proofed support for evolving smart city technologies. Summary of the invention

[009] A first aspect of the invention provides a modular urban infrastructure system comprising: a subterranean housing configured for installation below ground level; a cartridge removably receivable within the subterranean housing, the cartridge comprising one or more electrical and / or data connectors; and an above-ground utility device operably coupled to the cartridge; wherein the cartridge is configured to provide electrical and / or data connectivity to the above-ground utility device.

[010] This arrangement enables serviceable, swappable infrastructure components, allowing for rapid upgrade, repair, or reconfiguration of the above-ground device without disturbing underlying civil works. The separation of structural and functional elements provides operational resilience and reduces long-term maintenance costs. Modular installation further facilitates staged deployment or future service expansion.

[011] The cartridge-based structure allows different utility devices (e.g. EV charging points, sensors, or signage) to be hosted on a common platform, promoting standardisation and simplifying urban planning. It also allows different service providers to share a uniform installation approach, reducing clutter and enabling efficient use of public space.

[012] Some embodiments have a cartridge that comprises one or more printed circuit boards, relays, or cellular modems.

[013] This enables the cartridge to contain all functional electronic systems required for service delivery, communications, and control. Housing these elements within the cartridge simplifies servicing and upgrade, as malfunctioning electronics can be swapped out without specialist tools or excavation.

[014] Some embodiments have a cartridge and housing that include a keyed geometry to enforce a unique alignment.

[015] This prevents incorrect orientation during insertion, ensuring correct positioning of connectors and alignment of cooling, structural, or optical features. It also reduces risk of damage during installation.

[016] Some embodiments have a cartridge that comprises a twist-lock handle for insertion and extraction.

[017] The twist-lock mechanism enables tool-free or low-effort handling by installers, reducing installation time and improving safety during maintenance. It also ensures secure locking against vibration, theft, or accidental removal.

[018] Some embodiments have a system wherein power delivery is enabled only when the cartridge is fully seated.

[019] This improves safety by preventing partial connections or arcing, and ensures that systems are only live when correctly and securely installed. It also supports field diagnostics and secure power-up sequencing.

[020] Some embodiments have a system comprising a reed switch or magnetic interlock to detect seating.

[021] This provides an additional safety mechanism and supports automated verification of correct installation. It also enables intelligent status reporting and fault detection.

[022] Some embodiments have an above-ground utility device comprising a socket housing for electric vehicle charging.

[023] This allows direct integration of EV charging infrastructure with minimal footprint, and enables future upgrades or removal without disturbing pavement or groundworks.

[024] Some embodiments have an above-ground utility device that comprises a payment interface, signage, or environmental sensor.

[025] This supports a range of urban services, including commercial transactions, air quality monitoring, and digital information displays, all using a single common platform.

[026] Some embodiments have a cartridge that can be removed and replaced without excavation.

[027] This simplifies maintenance and upgrade operations, avoids the need for costly remstallation, and allows service providers to rotate inventory based on pre-configured functional modules.

[028] Some embodiments have a cartridge that is removable and replaceable in under three minutes.

[029] This ensures minimal downtime, increases service availability, and makes field servicing commercially viable at scale.

[030] Some embodiments have a cartridge comprising a locking interface configured to engage with the twist-lock handle.

[031] This provides positive locking and tactile feedback, ensuring that the handle is disengaged before the cartridge can be removed, reducing risk of shock or mechanical damage.

[032] Some embodiments have electrical activation prevented unless the handle is disengaged from the cartridge.

[033] This interlock prevents live disconnection events, improving safety for operators and preventing connector damage due to arcing.

[034] Some embodiments have an above-ground utility device comprising one or more visual indicators configured to convey operational status or fault conditions via colour or pulsing light sequences.

[035] This supports intuitive user interaction and enables quick diagnosis of operational states by installers or maintenance staff.

[036] Some embodiments have a cartridge comprising thermal transfer elements configured to conduct heat to the subterranean housing.

[037] This enables passive cooling of onboard electronics and enhances longterm reliability of the system in high-load or high-temperature environments.

[038] Some embodiments have a cartridge that supports charging session initiation via plug-and-play, RFID, or contactless payment.

[039] This supports regulatory compliance with smart charging mandates and increases usability for diverse user groups.

[040] A second aspect of the invention provides a resilient mounting system for an above-ground post, comprising: a subterranean support structure; a vertical post mounted to the subterranean support structure via a resilient interface configured to permit deflection of the post relative to the support structure; the vertical post comprising a crumple zone configured to plastically deform under mechanical impact before failure of the resilient interface.

[041] This system improves physical resilience, reducing damage from impacts such as vehicle collisions. The combination of flexible deflection and controlled deformation reduces the need for full post replacement, lowering maintenance costs.

[042] Some embodiments have a resilient interface comprising a spring.

[043] This provides energy absorption under impact and allows the post to return to its original position, reducing system downtime.

[044] Some embodiments have a crumple zone comprising a region of reduced cross-sectional thickness relative to adjacent portions.

[045] This feature allows controlled mechanical failure at predictable locations, improving safety and simplifying replacement.

[046] Some embodiments have a resilient interface enclosed by a sealed flexible boot configured to prevent ingress of water and debris.

[047] This improves system durability and ensures proper function of the spring mechanism in varied environmental conditions.

[048] A third aspect of the invention provides a replaceable service cartridge system for urban infrastructure, comprising: a subterranean housing configured to remain fixed in position below ground level; a cartridge removably insertable into the subterranean housing from above ground, the cartridge comprising at least one functional component and at least one electrical and / or data connector; an above-ground utility device operably coupled to the cartridge; wherein the cartridge is replaceable without excavation of the subterranean housing.

[049] This approach streamlines urban infrastructure management, allowing modular deployment, field-replacement, and minimal-disruption servicing. It reduces the total cost of ownership and simplifies integration of new technologies.

[050] Some embodiments have a cartridge comprising thermal transfer elements configured to conduct heat from internal electronic components to the subterranean housing.

[051] This ensures that thermal loads from active components are managed efficiently without fans or external heat sinks.

[052] A fourth aspect of the invention provides a configuration system for a modular infrastructure unit comprising: a cartridge removably insertable into a subterranean housing from above ground; a wireless interface housed in the cartridge and configured to activate automatically for a predetermined period following power-on; wherein the interface enables setup of network parameters or retrieval of diagnostic information during said period.

[053] This allows efficient field commissioning without physical access to internal components. It supports secure setup using existing wireless devices and avoids dependency on specialised installation tools.

[054] Some embodiments have an interface operable via a wireless hotspot activated for a limited time following insertion of the cartridge.

[055] This ensures that configuration access is time-bound and secure, while enabling installers to complete setup in a predictable and streamlined workflow.

[056] Some embodiments have a system wherein the cartridge and housing include physically separated power and data connectors.

[057] This reduces electromagnetic interference and improves system reliability and maintainability.

[058] Some embodiments have a system wherein a safety interlock disables the functional component unless installation is correctly completed.

[059] This guarantees operator safety, prevents partial activation errors, and ensures full compliance with power safety standards Brief description of the drawings

[060] The invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to certain preferred embodiments and the following drawings.

[061] Figure 1 is an exploded view of a modular charger assembly, according to an embodiment of the invention.

[062] Figure 2 provides an unexploded overview of the modular charger system of Figure 1, in its assembled state.

[063] Figure 3 shows a resilient post mounting system incorporating a crumple zone, spring interface, and subterranean foundation, according to another embodiment of the invention. Detailed description

[064] The modular infrastructure system shown in Figure 1 is designed for rapid deployment and long-term adaptability in urban environments. A key feature of the system is its above-ground accessibility, which allows all core components to be installed, inspected, and serviced without the need for excavation. This improves safety, reduces disruption to pedestrian traffic, and significantly lowers maintenance costs over the system's lifecycle. It begins with a vertically mounted sign post, 1, which serves as both a mechanical support and a conduit for power and data. In one embodiment, the post is formed from powder-coated steel for urban durability. In alternative configurations, stainless steel, aluminium, or even composite plastics or engineered timber may be selected to meet corrosion-resistance or aesthetic requirements. The crosssection of the post may be circular to simplify manufacturing and facilitate rotation during alignment, square to enhance lateral rigidity and provide a visual cue for kerb orientation, or custom-profiled to comply with local planning aesthetics or enable integration with bespoke bracketry.

[065] Attached to the upper portion of the post is a socket housing, 2, which typically contains the user-facing charging interface and any associated visual indicators. In one embodiment, the housing is moulded from UV-stabilised polycarbonate for cost-effective mass production and weather resistance. In a variant, it is cast in aluminium to enhance thermal dissipation from embedded electronics, or fabricated from layered composites to resist prying or blunt force vandalism in high-risk environments. The housing may incorporate toolless servicing features, locking covers, or interchangeable modules tailored to anticipated usage conditions.

[066] Within the housing, a standardised EV charging socket, 3, is mounted, conforming to Type 2 specifications under IEC 62196 in a preferred configuration. In other configurations, this socket may be replaced with a CCS, Type 1, or CHAdeMO outlet to suit regional infrastructure, or omitted entirely in systems designed for other purposes such as lighting, signage, or data sensing. Contact points within the socket housing 2 are electrically linked via rigid or flexible cabling to multi-pm connectors 4 positioned at the base of the housing. These connectors are configured to mate with corresponding ports on the top of the cartridge 6 during installation, ensuring plug-and-play engagement as the cartridge is inserted. In one embodiment, the housing 2 is mechanically secured to the post 1 via a flange or locking collar, while the cartridge 6 remains separable, enabling above-ground servicing without disturbing the buried casing 10. Sealing gaskets or compression sleeves may be incorporated around the mating interface to ensure environmental ingress protection while maintaining tool-free connectivity. These connectors 4 are keyed and polarised in one configuration, using circular bayonet-lock or DIN-type multi-pm sockets; magnetic or spring-loaded connectors may alternatively be used in sealed or low-current variants.

[067] Power and data are distributed and managed by an internal control assembly, 5, consisting of printed circuit boards, relays, and communication modules enclosed within the cartridge 6. These electronics include surfacemounted relays, solid-state switching devices, modem cards for 4G / 5G or Ethernet backhaul, and onboard diagnostic systems in a typical embodiment. The layout may be implemented as a monolithic board, a stacked assembly, or distributed across plug-in modules to allow scalable deployment. In deployments with multiple modular units along a single street or feeder line, the system may include distributed logic or bus-addressable communication protocols to support remote management. Individual cartridges may operate independently or form part of a coordinated network, with provisions for isolating faulty modules via relay logic or electronic fusing to prevent cascading failures. System-level updates may be pushed wirelessly or via secure over-the-air (OTA) updates to individual cartridges from a central control interface.

[068] These components are housed within the cartridge, 6, which is a modular, removable unit preferably constructed from aluminium or thermoplastic composite. It is configured to slot vertically into a subterranean casing, aligning in one embodiment with guide rails and engaging a locking interface. In other variants, the cartridge may be cylindrical or split-bodied, and fabricated from stainless steel or HDPE to accommodate differing corrosion, thermal or environmental requirements.

[069] To support external communications, the system includes a data entry port, 7, that brings in Ethernet or fibre connections via sealed grommets or compression glands. In one example, this is positioned laterally, though vertical configurations may be used depending on duct access. Power is introduced through a separate power entry port, 8, which terminates a steel-wire-armoured cable, 9, supplying high-voltage AC from a local feeder. The port may include a resin-potted block in one embodiment, or use dry-fit glands or modular DIN-rail terminals as alternatives. The cable itself may alternatively be a Hi-Tuff, non-armoured cable, or ducted in a protective sleeve to suit installation constraints.

[070] The data entry port 7 is positioned vertically above the power entry port 8 within the casing 10. This spatial arrangement reflects typical underground utility practices, wherein data cables are usually buried at shallower depths than power lines, thereby simplifying installation and alignment. Additionally, the elevated placement of the data entry port 7 provides forward compatibility for future applications. In one example, this configuration allows for the routing of supplementary cabling (such as those required for wireless charging or additional sensors) into the upper region of the casing, above the installed cartridge 6. This ensures that such additions can be integrated without disturbing the core components of the system or requiring excavation.

[071] The cartridge slides into a fixed subterranean casing, 10, which anchors the entire structure. This casing is fabricated from galvanized steel for structural rigidity in one embodiment, fibre-reinforced concrete for compressive strength in high-load areas, or rotationally moulded polymer for chemical resistance and lightweight handling. It can be round to fit core-drilled bores, square for compatibility with standard paving cuts, or flanged for bolt-down installation in retrofit sites. Its upper rim mates with a surface flange designed for clean reinstatement with paving materials. Internally, it includes channel guides and locking geometry to ensure cartridge alignment and stability. In one embodiment, the casing 10 includes integral drainage channels or gravel backfill at its base to facilitate passive water egress. Elastomeric gaskets or compression seals may be fitted between the cartridge 6 and casing 10 to prevent the ingress of surface water and particulates. These sealing features may be rated to IP65 or higher in applications requiring environmental resilience. Additionally, the internal connectors are located above the base level of the cartridge housing, ensuring that even in the event of temporary water accumulation at the bottom of the housing, electrical connections remain isolated from potential moisture ingress.

[072] To ensure ease of removal during servicing, especially where environmental sealing or pressure differences could create a vacuum lock, the casing includes a bleed tube, 11. This feature supports safe extraction of the cartridge from above ground level and contributes to the overall accessibility of the system by eliminating the need for specialist extraction equipment or manual leverage at pavement level. This passive feature allows ambient air ingress during cartridge extraction and may take the form of a vented conduit, a check-valve-equipped duct, or a filtered slit. It is positioned at a low point within the casing to allow airflow without compromising sealing integrity.

[073] The internal recesses within the casing 10, where the power and data services enter, are also designed to facilitate above-ground servicing. These recessed regions are shaped to permit access to the electrical terminations, contactors, switches, and plugs from within the cartridge cavity, without requiring access to the external, buried faces of the casing. This structural arrangement ensures that routine maintenance, component replacement, or fault isolation can be performed without excavation, further reinforcing the system’s modularity and suitability for densely built urban environments where surface disruption must be minimised.

[074] The entire structure is installed atop a foundation pad, 12, which provides load distribution and vertical stability. In one embodiment, this is a precast concrete slab. Other options include a poured-tn-place base or an engineered polymer grid system. Drainage layers, levelling compound, or geotextile underlays may also be incorporated to support installation in varied soil types or challenging topography.

[075] This particular configuration, involving an EV charger and sign post, is provided as an illustrative embodiment. Within the scope of the invention, the above-ground utility device may alternatively comprise other urban infrastructure elements, such as a lighting column, environmental sensor, payment terminal, bollard, or telecommunications node, depending on deployment context.

[076] Figure 2 shows the same modular charger system in its fully assembled, unexploded state. This view corresponds to the arrangement shown in Figure 1. The sign post 1 and socket housing 2 are shown in operational position, above the ground level 13, with the subterranean cartridge 6 fully inserted into the casing 10 below the ground level 13.

[077] Figure 3 illustrates a resilient post mounting system that may either be integrated with the modular cartridge-based system of Figures 1 and 2, or deployed independently. At the top of the assembly is a mounted sign 14, which may alternatively be substituted for lighting fixtures, sensor housings, or digital displays, to name but a few examples. The sign is supported by a vertical post 15, which is structurally designed to deform in a controlled manner under impact conditions.

[078] Part way along the post, a machined or narrowed buckle region 16 is formed. This crumple zone enables plastic deformation upon receiving a mechanical impact, thereby dissipating kinetic energy and protecting the remainder of the assembly. The lower portion of the post connects to a spring 17, which is concentrically mounted within overlapping sections of the upper and lower tube segments. This spring allows the upper post to deflect and return to its original position, reducing the likelihood of permanent misalignment.

[079] The base of the spring is anchored within a subterranean foundation 18, which may be a casting, sleeve, or modular housing fixed into the pavement. A cross-sectional detail of the sprung joint 19 is provided, showing how the spring sits within telescoping internal members and is shielded from external debris. This spring mechanism may be sealed by a rubber boot or encapsulated in a hydrophobic enclosure depending on environmental conditions.

[080] This resilient mounting structure offers advantages in safety, maintainability, and urban durability. When integrated with the cartridge-based system described in Figures 1 and 2, the lower portion of the post 15 may be coupled to the cartridge 6 using an internal seating collar or telescopic sleeve that aligns with guide features in the cartridge. The spring 17 may be partially enclosed within the upper portion of the cartridge or isolated in a separate resilient interface module seated atop the cartridge lid. This configuration allows the sprung mechanism to absorb lateral impacts while maintaining the modular, serviceable characteristics of the cartridge system. It can be combined with the cartridge-based system previously described or implemented in isolation, such as in contexts where only signage or passive infrastructure is required.

[081] It will be appreciated that the embodiments described above are illustrative only, and various modifications, enhancements and alternative configurations may be made without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the claims. Features described in relation to one embodiment may be combined with those of another unless stated otherwise or technically incompatible. Where reference numerals are used in the description, these are 5 provided for illustrative clarity and do not limit the scope of the invention.

Claims

1. A modular urban infrastructure system comprising: a subterranean housing configured for installation below ground level; a cartridge removably receivable within the subterranean housing, the cartridge comprising one or more electrical and / or data connectors; an above-ground utility device operably coupled to the cartridge; wherein the cartridge is configured to provide electrical and / or data connectivity to the above-ground utility device.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the cartridge comprises one or more printed circuit boards, relays, or cellular modems.

3. The system of claim 1 or 2, wherein the cartridge and housing include a keyed geometry to enforce a unique alignment.

4. The system of any of claims 1 to 3, wherein the cartridge comprises a twistlock handle for insertion and extraction.

5. The system of any of claims 1 to 4, wherein power delivery is enabled only when the cartridge is fully seated.

6. The system of any of claims 1 to 5, wherein the system comprises a reed switch or magnetic interlock to detect seating.

7. The system of any of claims 1 to 6, wherein the above-ground utility device comprises a socket housing for electric vehicle charging.

8. The system of any of claims 1 to 7, wherein the above-ground utility device comprises a payment interface, signage, or environmental sensor.

9. The system of any of claims 1 to 8, wherein the cartridge can be removed and replaced without excavation.

10. The system of any of claims 1 to 9, wherein the cartridge is removable and replaceable in under three minutes.

11. The system of any of claims 4 to 10, wherein the cartridge comprises a locking interface configured to engage with the twist-lock handle.

12. The system of any of claims 4 to 11, wherein electrical activation is prevented unless the handle is disengaged from the cartridge.

13. The system of any of claims 1 to 12, wherein the above-ground utility device comprises one or more visual indicators configured to convey operational status or fault conditions via color or pulsing light sequences.

14. The system of any of claims 1 to 13, wherein the cartridge comprises thermal transfer elements configured to conduct heat to the subterranean housing.

15. The system of any of claims 1 to 14, wherein the cartridge supports charging session initiation via plug-and-play, RFID, or contactless payment.

16. A resilient mounting system for an above-ground post, comprising: a subterranean support structure; a vertical post mounted to the subterranean support structure via a resilient interface configured to permit deflection of the post relative to the support structure; the vertical post comprising a crumple zone configured to plastically deform under mechanical impact before failure of the resilient interface.

17. The system of claim 16, wherein the resilient interface comprises a spring.

18. The system of any of claims 16 or 17, wherein the crumple zone comprises a region of reduced cross-sectional thickness relative to adjacent portions.

19. The system of any of claims 16 to 18, wherein the resilient interface is enclosed by a sealed flexible boot configured to prevent ingress of water and debris.

20. A modular infrastructure system comprising: a subterranean housing configured to remain fixed in position below ground level; a cartridge removably insertable into the subterranean housing from above ground, the cartridge comprising at least one functional component and at least one electrical and / or data connector; an above-ground utility device operably coupled to the cartridge; wherein the cartridge is replaceable without excavation of the subterranean housing.

21. The system of claim 20, wherein the cartridge comprises thermal transfer elements configured to conduct heat from internal electronic components to the subterranean housing.

22. A configuration system for a modular infrastructure unit comprising: a cartridge removably insertable into a subterranean housing from above ground; a wireless interface housed in the cartridge and configured to activate automatically for a predetermined period following power-on; wherein the interface enables setup of network parameters or retrieval of diagnostic information during said period.

23. The system of claim 22, wherein the interface is operable via a wireless hotspot activated for a limited time following insertion of the cartridge.

24. The system of any preceding claim, wherein the cartridge and housing include physically separated power and data connectors.

25. The system of any preceding claim, wherein a safety interlock disables the functional component unless installation is correctly completed.

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