Underground Enclosure System

Abstract

An underground enclosure for housing electrical components is provided. The underground enclosure may include a shell defining an interior compartment housing a lift system, an equipment rack structure connected to the lift system, a top panel with a compartment opening for accessing the interior compartment, and an enclosure cover adapted to cover and removably seal the compartment opening. In certain applications, a telecommunications base station may also be provided. The telecommunications base station may include the underground enclosure and a cellular base station, the cellular base station including an antenna and a power source coupled to a signal processing unit. In alternative embodiments, the underground enclosure may be configured as a cube-shaped structure or a tubular structure.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application is a PCT application claiming priority to U.S. Non-provisional Application No. 16 / 599,671, filed October 11, 2019, now U.S. Patent No. 10,615,583, issued April 7, 2020, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. [Technical Field]

[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to enclosures, and more particularly to underground enclosures for various electronic devices, including but not limited to telecommunications equipment. [Background technology]

[0003] A cell tower (also called a "cell site") is a mobile phone site where antennas and electronic communications equipment are located. A cell tower's operating range can depend on several factors, such as the tower's height relative to the surrounding terrain, the presence of buildings or vegetation that may reflect or absorb electromagnetic energy, the spectrum of frequencies used for radio transmission, local cellular traffic, and weather conditions. In terms of real estate size and requirements, a cell tower is a sprawling structure that includes a tower or pole, one or more equipment structures or sheds, and fencing, and can require up to 10,000 square feet (approximately 1 / 4 acre) of land. Due to the demand for cellular coverage, cell towers are required near densely populated areas to ensure the tower is available to the greatest number of potential users. However, each cell site can only handle a limited number of calls or data traffic. Summary of the Invention

[0004] In some embodiments, an in-ground enclosure for housing electrical components is provided. The in-ground enclosure for housing electrical components may include a shell defining an interior compartment, a top panel with a compartment opening for accessing the interior compartment, a compartment cover adapted to removably seal the compartment opening, and an equipment rack with an equipment lift system coupled to the compartment cover and further coupled to a base of the interior compartment, the equipment lift system adapted to move between a stored position in which the compartment cover seals the interior compartment opening and an extended position in which the equipment rack extends through the compartment opening to provide above-ground access to the equipment rack. The top panel may be attached to and / or integrally formed with the shell.

[0005] In some embodiments, an in-ground enclosure for housing electrical components is provided. The in-ground enclosure for housing electrical components may include a shell defining an interior compartment, the outer shell including a plurality of panels interconnected to form the shell (which may be a sealed shell), a top panel with an opening for accessing the interior compartment, a compartment cover adapted to removably seal the interior compartment opening, and an equipment rack coupled to the compartment cover and further coupled to a base of the interior compartment with an equipment lift system adapted to move between a stored position in which the compartment cover seals the interior compartment opening and an extended position in which the equipment rack extends through the compartment opening to provide above-ground access to the equipment rack. The top panel may be attached to and / or integrally formed with the shell.

[0006] In some embodiments, an in-ground enclosure for housing electrical components is provided. The in-ground enclosure for housing electrical components may include a cylindrical shell defining an interior compartment and having a compartment opening for accessing the interior compartment, a compartment cover adapted to removably seal the compartment opening, and an equipment rack with an equipment lift system coupled to the compartment cover and further coupled to a base of the interior compartment, the equipment lift system adapted to move between a stored position in which the compartment cover seals the interior compartment opening and the cylindrical shell, and an extended position in which the equipment rack extends through the top opening to provide above ground access to the equipment rack.

[0007] In some embodiments, a telecommunications base station is provided. The telecommunications base station may include an underground enclosure for housing electrical components, the enclosure including an outer shell defining an interior compartment, a top panel with a compartment opening for accessing the interior compartment, a compartment cover adapted to removably seal the compartment opening, and an equipment rack with an equipment lift system coupled to the compartment cover and further coupled to a base of the interior compartment, and may include a cellular base station with an antenna coupled to a signal processor, and a power supply with a battery, a connection to an external power source, or both, wherein in a storage position, the signal processor and battery are housed within the interior compartment. The top panel may be attached to and / or integrally formed with the shell. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] The features and advantages of the present invention will be more fully disclosed in, or made apparent by, the following detailed description of the embodiments, which should be considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which like numerals refer to like parts and in which: [Figure 1] 1 illustrates a perimeter view of an underground enclosure incorporated as part of a telecommunications base station as described herein. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 is a control schematic diagram of an underground enclosure including a gas treatment system as described herein. [Figure 3] FIG. 1 is a top perspective view of a first compartment opening and a second compartment opening of an in-ground enclosure described herein. [Figure 4] FIG. 1 is a side perspective view of an underground enclosure showing an external conduit as is described herein. [Figure 5] FIG. 1 is a top perspective view of a second compartment described herein showing external and internal conduits extending to the second compartment. [Figure 6] 1 is a cross-sectional view of a sidewall of an enclosure showing a sidewall gap as described herein and an external conduit plugged with a conduit and conduit coupler. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is a partially exploded view of a first compartment prior to insertion into an outer shell as described herein. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a partially exploded view of a second compartment prior to insertion into an outer shell as described herein. [Figure 9] FIG. 2 is a partially exploded view showing a first compartment and a second compartment positioned adjacent to each other and prepared for placement of an outer shell thereon, as described herein. [Figure 10] 10 is a bottom view of FIG. 9 with a first compartment and a second compartment described herein inserted into the outer shell and spacers attached to the base of the first compartment and the base of the second compartment. [Figure 11] FIG. 1 is a partially exploded view showing a first compartment and a second compartment positioned adjacent to each other as described herein and prepared for placing an outer shell thereon and sealing it therein by an outer base. [Figure 12] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a double-walled in-ground enclosure. [Figure 13] 13 is a partial cross-sectional view of FIG. 12 taken along section line 13-13. [Figure 14A] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an equipment rack and equipment lift system as may be described herein. [Figure 14B] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a battery rack and battery lift system as described herein. [Figure 15] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a rack and lift system illustrating a lockout system as described herein. [Figure 16A] FIG. 1 is a front view of a diffuser that can be used in connection with the equipment racks and battery racks described herein. [Figure 16B] FIG. 1 is an end view of a diffuser that can be used in connection with the equipment racks and battery racks described herein. [Figure 17] FIG. 10 is a bottom view of a first compartment cover showing the locking arm in an open position as described herein. [Figure 18] FIG. 10 is a bottom view of a first compartment cover showing the locking arm in a locked position as described herein. [Figure 19] FIG. 10 is a bottom view of a second compartment cover showing the locking arm in an open position as described herein. [Figure 20] FIG. 10 is a bottom view of the second compartment cover showing the locking arm in a locked position as described herein. [Figure 21] FIG. 2 is a semi-perspective view of a cover lock disposed in a cover lock recess as described herein. [Figure 22] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the interface between the compartment opening and the compartment cover in a locked position (without the cover lock for clarity) as described herein. [Figure 23] 1 illustrates a perimeter view of an underground enclosure incorporated as part of a telecommunications base station, including an underground ground ring as described herein. [Figure 24] FIG. 1 is a side view of an exemplary embodiment of an antenna pole having a telescoping section as described herein. [Figure 25] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional side view of an underground enclosure showing the placement of heat transfer particles around the perimeter of the underground enclosure. [Figure 26] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a single-wall, multi-panel in-ground enclosure as described herein. [Figure 27] 27 is a partial cross-sectional view of FIG. 26 taken along section line 27-27. [Figure 28] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a cylindrical in-ground enclosure as is described herein. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] The description of the preferred embodiments is intended to be read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which are to be considered part of the entire description of the invention. The drawings are not necessarily to scale, and certain features of the invention may be shown in exaggerated or somewhat schematic form for clarity and conciseness. In this description, relative terms such as "horizontal," "vertical," "up," "down," "upper," "lower," and derivatives thereof (e.g., "horizontally," "downward," "upward," etc.) should be interpreted as referring to the orientation currently being described or shown in the drawings being described. These relative terms are for convenience of description and are not generally intended to require a particular orientation. Terms including "inward" versus "outward," "longitudinal" versus "transverse," etc., should be interpreted relative to each other or to an axis of elongation or axis or center of rotation, as appropriate. Terms relating to attachments, couplings, and the like, such as "connected" and "interconnected," unless otherwise specified, refer to a relationship in which structures are fixed or attached to one another, either directly or indirectly through intervening structures, and to both movable and fixed attachments or relationships, and include terms such as "directly" coupled, fixed, etc. The term "operably coupled" is an attachment, coupling, or connection that permits the structures involved to operate in a manner intended by that relationship.

[0010] As shown in Figures 1-28, in various embodiments, an underground enclosure 10 for housing electrical components is disclosed. As used herein, the term "underground enclosure" is used interchangeably with the phrase "enclosure adapted for underground installation," as the enclosure 10 can be considered an "underground enclosure" at any time before, during, or after installation. The underground enclosure 10 may include an outer shell 12, a first compartment 14 disposed within the outer shell 12, a second compartment 16 disposed within the outer shell 12, and a top panel 18 with a first compartment opening 20 for accessing the first compartment 14 and a second compartment opening 22 for accessing the second compartment 16. The underground enclosure 10 may include a partition wall 24 separating the first compartment 14 from the second compartment 16. The in-ground enclosure may also include a first compartment cover 26 adapted to removably seal the first compartment opening 14, a second compartment cover 28 adapted to removably seal the second compartment opening 16, or both 26, 28.

[0011] In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 3-6, one or more external conduits 30 extend from the exterior of the underground enclosure 10 to the interior of the first compartment 14 or the second compartment 16. In such embodiments, the external conduits 30 allow lines to pass from outside the underground enclosure 10 to the interior of the first compartment 14 or the second compartment 16. Examples of lines that may pass through the external conduits 30 include, but are not limited to, power supplies, communication lines (fiber optic, coaxial cable, etc.), air hoses, and wires (e.g., for connecting an external control panel to internal electronics). In some embodiments, the external conduits 30 may be corrosion-resistant pipes.

[0012] In some embodiments, the first external conduit 30a may be used for communication lines (e.g., fiber optic cable), the second external conduit 30b may be used for a power supply, and the third external conduit 30c may be used for an air hose. Lines passing through the external conduit 30 may be secured with a conduit coupler 32 to form a watertight and airtight seal with the external conduit 30. For example, the conduit coupler 32 may be a plug-type sealing system such as those manufactured by Roxsystems and sold under the ROXTEC® trademark. The conduit coupler 32 may be located at the outer end 34 of the external conduit 30, the inner end 36 of the external conduit 30, or both 34, 36.

[0013] In some embodiments, one or more internal conduits 38 extend through the partition wall 24, allowing lines to pass from the first compartment 14 to the second compartment 16. In some embodiments, the first internal conduit 38a may be used for communication lines (e.g., fiber optic cable), the second internal conduit 38b may be used for a power supply, and the third internal conduit 38c may be used for an air hose. Lines passing through the internal conduits 38 may be secured with a conduit coupler 32 to form a watertight and airtight seal with the internal conduit 38. For example, as shown in FIGS. 4 and 6, the conduit coupler 32 may be a plug-type sealing system such as those manufactured by Roxsystems and sold under the trademark ROXTEC®. The conduit coupler 32 may be located on the first compartment side 40 of the internal conduit 38, the second compartment side 42 of the internal conduit 38, or both 40, 42.

[0014] In some embodiments, the first compartment 14 and the second compartment 16 can be controllably or permanently hermetically isolated from one another when the first compartment cover 26 seals the first compartment opening 20 and the second compartment cover 28 seals the second compartment opening 22. As discussed in more detail below, when the first and second compartments 14, 16 are controllably sealed, gas exchange can be controlled so that gases are not exchanged when the appropriate valves of the gas handling system 78 are closed, and so that gases are exchanged when the appropriate valves of the gas handling system 78 are open.

[0015] 2, 6, and 13, the sidewalls 46 of the in-ground enclosure 10 comprise an inner sidewall 48 and an outer sidewall 50 separated by a sidewall gap 52, which is filled with heat transfer particles 54. In some embodiments, a portion of the inner sidewall 48 comprises the outer sidewall of the first compartment 14 and the outer sidewall of the second compartment 16, while the outer sidewall 50 is the outer sidewall of the outer shell 12.

[0016] 2 and 13, a partition gap 56 exists between a first side 58 and a second side 60 of the partition wall 24. In some embodiments, the partition gap 56 is filled with heat transfer particles 54. In some embodiments, the first side 58 of the partition wall 24 comprises the outer wall of the first compartment 14, and the second side 60 of the partition wall 24 comprises the outer wall of the second compartment 16.

[0017] 13, the base 62 of the in-ground enclosure 10 comprises an inner base 64 and an outer base 66 separated by a base gap 68, the base gap 68 being filled with heat transfer particles 54, the bulk density of the heat transfer particles in the sidewall gap being at least 75% of the density of the heat transfer particles. In some embodiments, a portion of the inner base 64 comprises the base of the first compartment 14 and the base of the second compartment 16, while the outer base 66 is the base of the outer shell 12.

[0018] In some embodiments, each of the gaps 52, 56, 68 independently ranges from 0.5 inches to 5 inches. In some embodiments, each of the gaps 52, 56, 68 independently ranges from 0.75 inches to 4 inches, or from 1 inch to 3.5 inches. In some embodiments, each of the gaps 52, 56, 68 independently ranges from 1.25 inches to 2.5 inches (e.g., 1.5 inches, 1.75 inches, 2.0 inches, 2.25 inches). In some embodiments, the sidewall gap 52 may be from 1 inch to 3 inches, while the partition wall gap 56 may be from 2 inches to 5 inches, and the base gap 68 may be from 0.5 inches to 3 inches.

[0019] In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 7-13 , the in-ground enclosure 10 can be formed from a first compartment 14 and a second compartment 16 inserted into an outer shell 12. Gaps 52, 56 can be maintained by spacers 15, which can also function as stiffening elements. In some embodiments, the spacers 15 can be welded to the outside of the first compartment 14, the second compartment 16, or both 14, 16. In some embodiments, the first compartment 14 and the second compartment 16 can be sealed within the outer shell 12 by an outer base 66, which can be secured to the lower end of the outer shell 12. Similar to the sides, gaps between the bases 64 and 66 of the first compartment 14 and the second compartment 16 can be maintained by the spacers 15. The tops of the first compartment 14 and the second compartment 16 should be sealed in an airtight manner to a top panel 18 or portion of the outer shell 12 so that a positive pressure can be maintained in each of the first compartment 14 and the second compartment 16. Similarly, to maintain the heat transfer particles 54 in their optimum condition, the outer base 66 should be sealed to the outer shell 12 in a watertight manner.

[0020] As shown in FIGS. 7-13 , the sides 50 of the outer shell 12 are angled so that the outer shell 12 is wider and longer at the base 66 than near the top panel 18. This design is intended to keep the in-ground enclosure 10 in the ground and prevent it from "floating," especially when the surrounding soil is saturated with water. In some embodiments, the sides of the first and second compartments 14, 16 are also angled so that they remain parallel to the adjacent outer sidewalls 50 of the outer shell 12. In some embodiments, the outer sidewalls 50, and optionally the inner sidewalls 48, are maintained at an angle (θ) of 2.5 to 30 degrees, or 5 to 20 degrees, or 5 to 15 degrees with respect to the vertical.

[0021] The outer shell 12, the first compartment 14, and the second compartment 16 may be formed from a corrosion-resistant material. For example, the outer shell 12, the first compartment 14, and the second compartment 16 may be formed from a metal alloy that is corrosion-resistant and / or may be coated with an additional material to prevent corrosion. Additionally or alternatively, corrosion of the outer shell 12, the first compartment 14, and the second compartment 16 may be reduced or prevented by cathodic protection. In some embodiments, the outer shell 12, the first compartment 14, and the second compartment 16 may be formed from weathering steel, such as that sold by United States Steel Corporation under the trademark COR-TEN®, and may receive additional protection. For example, the steel may be washed, zinc phosphating, coated with a primer, coated with a cationic epoxy electrocoat, coated with a polyester paint, cured, etc.

[0022] In some embodiments, the bulk density of the heat transfer particles 54 in one or more of the sidewall gaps 52, the partition gaps 56, and the base gaps 68 is at least 75% of the density of the heat transfer particles 54. In some embodiments, the bulk density of the heat transfer particles 54 in one or more of the sidewall gaps 52, the partition gaps 56, and the base gaps 68 is at least 77.5%, or at least 80%, or at least 82.5%, or at least 85%, or at least 87.5%, or at least 90% of the density of the heat transfer particles 54. In some embodiments, the heat transfer particles 54 have a thermal conductivity of at least 70 W / mK (~40 BTU-ft / hr / ft 2 °F), or at least 100W / mK (~58 BTU-ft / hr / ft 2 °F), or at least 200W / mK (~115.6 BTU-ft / hr / ft 2 °F), or at least 300W / mK (~173.3 BTU-ft / hr / ft 2 °F), or at least 400W / mK (~231.1 BTU-ft / hr / ft 2 °F), or at least 450W / mK (~260 BTU-ft / hr / ft 2 °F), or at least 500W / mK (~288.9 BTU-ft / hr / ft 2 In some embodiments, the heat transfer particles 54 may be made of a material having a thermal conductivity of at least 300 μΩ-in, or at least 400 μΩ-in, or at least 425 μΩ-in. In some embodiments, the heat transfer particles 54 may be made of a material having an electrical resistivity of 1.25 g / cm 3 to 2.00 g / cm 3 range or 1.30g / cm 3 to 1.88 g / cm 3 The material may be made of a material having a density in the range of .

[0023] In some embodiments, the heat transfer particles have a maximum dimension of 50 microns to 1,000 microns, or 75 microns to 750 microns, or 100 microns to 500 microns, or 125 microns to 400 microns. In some embodiments, the minimum size of the maximum dimension is at least 10 microns. In some embodiments, the median (D50) particle size is between 75 microns and 180 microns. In some embodiments, up to 30% of the particles, or 25% of the particles, or 20% of the particles by weight, do not pass through an 80 mesh (180 micron) screen. In some embodiments, up to 50% of the particles, or 45% of the particles, or 40% of the particles by weight, do not pass through a 100 mesh (150 micron) screen. In some embodiments, up to 30% of the particles, or 25% of the particles, or 20% of the particles by weight, pass through a 325 mesh (44 micron) screen. This prevents dusting issues and provides a lightweight, high-performance heat transfer material.

[0024] In some embodiments, the heat transfer particles 54 are flakes. In some embodiments, the heat transfer particles include graphite particles (e.g., flakes). In some embodiments, the heat transfer particles include expanded graphite particles (e.g., flakes). Examples of expanded graphite particles include those sold by Entergris, Inc. under the trademark POCO® graphite and those sold by Carbon Graphite Materials, Inc. In some embodiments, the heat transfer particles include natural or synthetic graphite flakes. In some embodiments, the heat transfer particles include crystalline graphite flakes. In some embodiments, the heat transfer particles include graphite flakes having at least 90% carbon, or at least 94% carbon, or at least 96% carbon, or at least 99% carbon. In some embodiments, the heat transfer particles include less than 5% moisture, or less than 2% moisture, or less than 1% moisture, or less than 0.5% moisture.

[0025] In some embodiments, a desired bulk density level of the heat transfer particles 54 may be achieved by filling the sidewall gaps 52, and optionally the partition gaps 56 and base gaps 68, with the heat transfer particles 54 while the outer shell 12 is on a shaker. The shaking action facilitates tight packing of the heat transfer particles 54. In some embodiments, the outer shell 12 can be filled from the base side, and once the desired fill level is reached, the base 13 of the outer shell can be secured to the bottom of the outer shell 12.

[0026] In some embodiments, a desired bulk density level of the heat transfer particles 54 may be achieved by filling the sidewall gaps 52 and, optionally, the partition gaps 56 and the base gaps 68 with a slurry containing the heat transfer particles 54 suspended in a solvent, followed by heating and removing the solvent. In some embodiments, the heat transfer particles 54 may partially or completely fill the sidewall gaps 52 and, optionally, the partition gaps 56 and the base gaps 68, and then spray with a volatile liquid to facilitate dense packing. In some cases, this may be an iterative process in which a portion of the gaps 52, 56, and / or 68 are filled with the heat transfer particles 54, then the volatile liquid is sprayed, and this process is repeated until the applicable gaps 52 and / or 68 are filled with the heat transfer particles 54. This process generally results in a well-packed layer of heat transfer particles 54 in intimate contact with the opposing surfaces defining the applicable gaps 52, 56, and 68. Examples of solvents that can be used in this process include, but are not limited to, ethylene glycol, propylene glycol, water, and / or mixtures thereof. In some embodiments, such as crystalline graphite, the particles do not absorb water and the solvent can be water.

[0027] In some embodiments, for example, a slurry may be prepared in a mixer (e.g., a cement mixer) whereby the heat transfer particles 54 are mixed with a solvent. The heat transfer particles 54 and solvent may be selected based on the desired viscosity or other properties of the slurry. For example, a number of graphite particles may be mixed with water in a cement mixer for 5 to 60 minutes before being filled into the gaps 52, 56, and / or 68. After filling the gaps 52, 56, and / or 68, the outer shell may be subjected to a packing process to facilitate dense packing of the heat transfer particles. Any suitable packing method may be used, such as shaking, beating, vibrating, or sonicating. Once the desired packing is achieved, the solvent may be evaporated or otherwise removed (e.g., by heating in an oven), leaving behind the packed heat transfer particles. Additional particles and / or powder coating may be added after solvent removal.

[0028] 1 , 2 , 14 , and 15 , the in-ground enclosure 10 includes an equipment rack 70 that includes an equipment lift system 72 coupled to a base 65 a within the first compartment 14. The equipment lift system 72 is adapted to move the equipment rack 70 between a stored position in which the equipment rack 70 is contained entirely within the first compartment 14 and an extended position in which the equipment rack 70 extends through the first compartment opening 20 and is accessible to a user standing outside the in-ground enclosure 10. For example, the equipment rack 70 is positioned to allow a user standing along one side of the in-ground enclosure 10 to access the equipment rack 70.

[0029] In some embodiments, as best shown in FIGS. 1 and 22 , the first compartment cover 26 is coupled to the top of the equipment rack 70, and the equipment lift system 72 is adapted to move between a retracted position in which the first compartment cover 26 seals the first compartment opening 20 and an extended position in which most or all of the equipment rack 70 extends through the first compartment opening 20 and above the upper surface 19 of the top panel 18.

[0030] In some embodiments, the underground enclosure 10 includes a battery rack 74 including a battery lift system 76 coupled to the base 65b within the second compartment 16. The battery lift system 76 is adapted to move the battery rack 74 between a stowed position, in which the battery rack 74 is contained entirely within the second compartment 16, and an extended position, in which the battery rack 74 extends through the second compartment opening 22 and is accessible to a user standing outside the underground enclosure 10. For example, the batteries 74 are positioned such that a user standing on one side of the underground enclosure 10 can access the battery rack 74.

[0031] In some embodiments, as best shown in Figures 1, 14, 15, and 22, the second compartment cover 28 is coupled to the top of the battery rack 74, and the battery lift system 76 is adapted to move between a retracted position in which the second compartment cover 28 seals the second compartment opening 22 and an extended position in which most or all of the battery rack 74 extends through the second compartment opening 22 and above the upper surface 19 of the top panel 18.

[0032] In some embodiments, the equipment lift system 72, the battery lift system 76, or both 72, 76 can be independently operated pneumatically, hydraulically, electrically, mechanically, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the equipment lift system 72, the battery lift system 76, or both 72, 76 are controlled by a gas treatment system 78 within the in-ground enclosure 10.

[0033] 2 and 17-21, the first compartment cover 26 includes a plurality of cover locks 80. For example, in some embodiments, the first compartment cover 26 includes at least four cover locks 80 or at least six cover locks 80. In some embodiments, the second compartment cover 28 includes a plurality of cover locks 80. For example, in some embodiments, the second compartment cover 28 includes at least four cover locks 80.

[0034] In some embodiments, each cover lock 80 includes a locking arm 82 and a sealing hub 84. In some embodiments, the locking arm 82 is adapted to rotate between a locked position in which a portion of the locking arm 82 extends below an edge 86 a, 86 b of the first or second compartment opening 20, 22 to prevent the compartment cover 26, 28 from being removed from the respective compartment opening 20, 22, and an open position in which the compartment cover 26, 28 can be removed from the respective compartment opening 20, 22.

[0035] 17-21 , for example, a sealing hub 84 is coupled to the locking arm 82, and the sealing hub 84 is adapted to adjust the distance between the locking arm 82 and the bottom surface 27, 29 of the respective compartment cover 26, 28. Thus, when the compartment cover 26, 28 covers the respective compartment opening 20, 22, the locking arm 82 can be rotated to the locked position, and the sealing hub 84 can reduce the distance between the locking arm 82 and the bottom surface 27, 29 of the respective compartment cover 26, 28. Eventually, the locking arm 82 contacts the edge 86 a, 86 b of the respective compartment opening 20, 22, thereby locking the respective compartment cover 26, 28 in place.

[0036] 17-21 , each sealing hub 84 is partially disposed within a respective cover locking recess 88 in the bottom surface 27, 29 of the corresponding compartment cover 26, 28. In some embodiments, the in-ground enclosure 10 includes a gas handling system 78 adapted to controllably supply pressurized air to rotate each sealing hub 84 in a first direction to decrease the distance between the bottom surface 27, 29 of the corresponding compartment cover 26, 28 and the locking arm 82, and to controllably supply pressurized air to rotate the sealing hub 84 in a second direction opposite the first direction to increase the distance between the bottom surface 27, 29 of the corresponding compartment cover 26, 28 and the locking arm 82. For example, gas treatment system 78 may have a first line coupled to first lock recess inlet 90 and a second line coupled to second lock recess inlet 92, where when pressurized gas is supplied to first lock recess inlet 90 (but not second lock recess inlet 92), sealing hub 84 rotates in a first direction, and when pressurized gas is supplied to second lock recess inlet 92 (but not first lock recess inlet 90), sealing hub 84 rotates in a second direction.

[0037] In some embodiments, pressurized gas is supplied to the first lock recess inlet 90 of each cover lock 80 to rotate the locking arm 82 and sealing hub 84 to the locked position. In the event of a malfunction, each cover lock 80 can be accessed from outside the underground enclosure by removing the respective access panel 81, allowing an operator to manually rotate the sealing hub 84 to move the cover lock 80 to the unlocked position. In some embodiments, the pressurized gas remains or is continuously supplied within the sealing hub 84 to maintain the cover lock 80 in the locked position and resist manual rotation of the sealing hub 84. In such cases, the control panel 154 may be used to manually release the pressurized gas from the locking hub 84, allowing an operator to manually rotate the sealing hub 84 to move the cover lock 80 to the unlocked position. In some embodiments, the sealing hub 84 may require a special coupling (e.g., a double-D socket wrench) to rotate the locking hub 84 when accessed through the access panel 81.

[0038] 21-22 , the edge 86a of the first compartment opening 20 includes a first compartment insert ledge 94a, and when the first compartment cover 26 is in the locked position, an outer lip 96a of the first compartment cover 26 rests on the first compartment insert ledge 94a, and a top surface 98a of the first compartment cover 26 is approximately flush with the top surface 19 of the top panel 18. In some embodiments, a sealing material 95a may be coupled to the first compartment insert ledge 94a, the outer lip 96a, or both 94a, 96a, such that when the first compartment cover 26 is in the locked position, the outer lip 96a rests on the sealing material 95a. In some embodiments, the first compartment insert ledge 94a includes a vertical thickness having an edge that defines a first abutment 100a. In some embodiments, the first compartment cover 26 includes a first vertical surface 102a extending from the first compartment outer lip 96a to its bottom surface 27. In some embodiments, a first inflatable seal 104a extends outward from the first vertical surface 102a, and the first inflatable seal 104a exerts a force against the first abutment 100a when the first compartment cover 26 is in the locked position and the first inflatable seal 104a is inflated by the gas processing system 78. As will be appreciated, the first inflatable seal 104a can be deflated by opening a first inflatable seal valve 106a of the first inflatable seal 104a. The first inflatable seal valve 106a can be electronically operated (e.g., a solenoid valve).

[0039] In some embodiments, the edge 86b of the second compartment opening 22 includes a second compartment insert ledge 94b, and when the second compartment cover 28 is in the locked position, the outer lip 96b of the second compartment cover 28 rests on the second compartment insert ledge 94b, and the top surface 98b of the second compartment cover 28 is approximately flush with the top surface 19 of the top panel 18. In some embodiments, a sealing material 95b may be coupled to the second compartment insert ledge 94b, the outer lip 96b, or both 94b, 96b, such that when the second compartment cover 28 is in the locked position, the outer lip 96b rests on the sealing material 95b. In some embodiments, the second compartment insert ledge 94b includes a vertical thickness having an edge that defines a second abutment 100b. In some embodiments, the second compartment cover 28 includes a second vertical surface 102b extending from the second compartment outer lip 96b to its bottom surface 29. In some embodiments, the second inflatable seal 104b extends outward from the second vertical surface 102b, and the second inflatable seal 104b exerts a force against the second abutment 100b when the second compartment cover 28 is in the locked position and the second inflatable seal 104b is inflated by the gas processing system 78. As will be appreciated, the second inflatable seal 104b can be deflated by opening the second inflatable seal valve 106b of the second inflatable seal 104b. The second inflatable seal valve 106b can be electronically operated (e.g., a solenoid valve).

[0040] In some embodiments, the first compartment cover 26, the second compartment cover 28, or both 26, 28, include at least one reinforcing sheet embedded in the continuous phase. In some embodiments, the first compartment cover 26, the second compartment cover 28, or both 26, 28, include rebar embedded in the continuous phase. In some embodiments, the first compartment cover 26, the second compartment cover 28, or both 26, 28, include rebar embedded in the continuous phase and at least one reinforcing sheet. In some embodiments, the continuous phase may be an impermeable concrete, polymer, or ceramic capable of forming an impermeable structure. For example, the continuous phase may be a polymeric concrete material. In some embodiments, the first compartment cover 26, the second compartment cover 28, or both may be capable of supporting a car, truck, or van parked on the first or second compartment cover 26, 28 resting on the corresponding compartment opening 20, 22. For example, in some embodiments, the first compartment cover 26, the second compartment cover 28, or both, may be capable of supporting at least 20,000 pounds, at least 30,000 pounds, or at least 40,000 pounds when the first or second compartment cover 26, 28 is locked over the corresponding compartment opening 20, 22.

[0041] In some embodiments, the first compartment cover 26, the second compartment cover 28, or both 26, 28, comprise at least two reinforcing sheets embedded in the continuous phase. In some embodiments, the primary fibers of the two reinforcing sheets are at an angle of 10 to 80 degrees, or 15 to 75 degrees, or 20 to 70 degrees, or 30 to 60 degrees relative to each other. Examples of reinforcing sheets that may be used herein include brass and galvanized steel tapes / cloths, such as those sold by Hardwire, LLC under the trademark HARDWIRE®. In some embodiments, one or more reinforcing sheets can block electromagnetic (EM) radiation. In some embodiments, one or more reinforcing sheets embedded in the compartment covers 26, 28 can prevent drill bits from penetrating the respective compartment covers 26, 28.

[0042] In some embodiments, a Faraday shield (also known as a cage) can be embedded in the compartment covers 26, 28 to prevent certain electromagnetic fields from penetrating the covers. In some embodiments, the Faraday shield can prevent electromagnetic interference (EMI) or radio frequency interference (RFI), such as radio waves from nearby radio transmitters, from interfering with the equipment inside the underground enclosure. In some embodiments, the Faraday shield can prevent currents, such as lightning strikes and electrostatic discharges, from interfering with and / or damaging the equipment inside the underground enclosure. By shielding against EMI / RFI, the Faraday shield can prevent eavesdropping or interception of telephone calls connected through the underground enclosure. The Faraday shield can be constructed of any suitable material. In some embodiments, the Faraday shield can be constructed of a metal or metallic material. In some embodiments, the Faraday shield can be constructed of a metal hardwire grid or mesh, or multiple grids and / or meshes. When two or more grids or meshes are used, the first grid or mesh may be oriented in a north-south direction, and the second grid or mesh may be placed on top of the first and oriented in the same or a different direction. In some embodiments, the second grid or mesh may be fixed at an angle relative to the first grid to provide harmonic differentiation to the Faraday shield. In some embodiments, the second grid or mesh may be positioned at an angle between 10 and 80 degrees, 25 and 70 degrees, 20 and 60 degrees, 25 and 50 degrees, 25 and 45 degrees, 25 and 35 degrees, or 30 and 35 degrees. In some embodiments, the grid or mesh may be constructed from CAD-welded stranded flex ground wire per bonding and grounding specifications known and utilized in the telecommunications industry. In some embodiments, the Faraday shield may be constructed from flexible metal cloth, fine metal mesh, or any other suitable material.

[0043] In some embodiments, as shown schematically in FIG. 2 , the in-ground enclosure 10 includes a gas treatment system 78 with a dehumidifier 110 and an air compressor 112 disposed within the outer shell 12 (e.g., in the first compartment 14 or the second compartment 16). In some embodiments, an ambient air intake line 114 has an air intake line inlet 116 in fluid communication with ambient air outside the outer shell 12 and an air intake line outlet 118 in fluid communication with a compressor inlet 120. In some embodiments, a filter 121 may be disposed between the air intake line outlet 118 and the compressor inlet 120, although this still represents fluid communication between the air intake line outlet 118 and the compressor inlet 120. In some embodiments, the filter 121 may be disposed before the compressor 112, and another filter 123 may be disposed after the dehumidifier 110. The gas handling system 78 may be adapted to supply high pressure air to the interior of the first compartment 14, the interior of the second compartment 16, or both 14, 16. As used herein, "high pressure" refers to a pressure of at least 1 pound per square inch gauge. As used herein, "dehumidified air" is used to refer to gas (e.g., air) that has passed through the dehumidifier 110.

[0044] In some embodiments, the gas treatment system 78 includes a water trap 122 adapted to collect water removed by the dehumidifier or condensed by the gas treatment system 78. In some embodiments, the gas treatment system 78 includes a water purge line 124 for purging water from the underground enclosure 10.

[0045] In some embodiments, the gas handling system 78 is adapted to supply high-pressure dehumidified air to the interior of both the first compartment 14 and the second compartment 16. Thus, when the compartment covers 26, 28 are in the locked position, the first compartment 14, the second compartment 16, or both 14, 16 can be maintained at a pressure greater than atmospheric pressure. This is another precaution to prevent both water vapor and water from penetrating the respective compartments 14, 16, whether through the compartment openings 20, 22 or other potential points of entry. In some embodiments, when the compartment covers 26, 28 are in the locked position, the first compartment 14, the second compartment 16, or both 14, 16 are maintained at a positive pressure of at least 1 psig, or at least 2 psig, or at least 3 psig.

[0046] The gas treatment system 78 may include a processor 108 for processing information from the numerous sensors 138, 144, 146, switches 136, valves 140, 142, and electronic devices 112, controlling the gas treatment system 78, and communicating with connected devices, such as a control panel 154 for the power pedestal 150 or a remotely located device (e.g., a mobile device or a desktop or laptop computer using a secure app). While the processor 108 is not shown connected to any particular electromechanical devices, it is understood that the processor 108 may communicate with any or all electromechanical devices necessary to operate the in-ground enclosure 10 or the telecommunications base station 300 via any technology known in the art (examples include, but are not limited to, hardwire, WiFi, Bluetooth, RF, etc.).

[0047] In some embodiments, the air compressor 112 pressurizes the intake air before passing it through the dehumidifier 110 to provide pressurized, dehumidified air to a pressurized storage tank 126. In some embodiments, the storage tank 126 is in fluid communication with multiple regulators 128 to provide dehumidified air at various pressures.

[0048] For example, in some embodiments, the at least one storage tank 126 can store dehumidified air at a pressure of at least 100 psig, and the at least one storage tank 126 can be coupled to at least three of the following: a first regulator 128a that supplies air at a first pressure to pressurize the interior of the first compartment 14, the second compartment 16, or both 14, 16; a second regulator 128b supplying air at a second pressure to the sealing hub 84 of the cover lock 80 disposed on the first compartment cover 26, the second compartment cover 28, or both 26, 28; and a third regulator 128c that supplies air at a third pressure to the equipment lift system 72, the battery lift system 76, or both 72, 76; a fourth regulator 128d supplying air at a fourth pressure to the first inflatable seal 104a, the second inflatable seal 104b, or both 104a, 104b; A fifth regulator 128e supplies air at a fifth pressure to the equipment cooling diffuser 73, the battery cooling diffuser 77, or both.

[0049] In some embodiments, the first pressure, the second pressure, and the third pressure are different. In some embodiments, the first pressure and the second pressure are different. In some embodiments, the first pressure and the third pressure are different. In some embodiments, the second pressure and the third pressure may be the same and may be supplied by the same regulator. In some embodiments, the fourth pressure and the fifth pressure may be the same and may be supplied by the same regulator. In some embodiments, the first pressure, the second pressure, the third pressure, the fourth pressure, and the fifth pressure are different.

[0050] In some embodiments, there is a master lock airline 130 that is divided into a locking airline 132 and an unlocking airline 134. The flow of pressurized air between the locking airline 132 and the unlocking airline 134 is controlled by a lock control switch 136. The locking airline 132 may be coupled to the first lock recess inlet 90 of each cover lock 80, while the unlocking airline 134 may be coupled to the second lock recess inlet 92 of each cover lock 80.

[0051] In some embodiments, the first pressure may be in the range of 1 to 9 psig, or 1.5 psig to 7 psig, or 2 to 5 psig. In some embodiments, the second pressure may be in the range of 40 to 150 psig, or 60 to 135 psig, or 70 to 120 psig. In some embodiments, the third pressure may be in the range of 50 to 300 psig, or 75 to 250 psig, or 100 to 200 psig. In some embodiments, the fourth pressure may be in the range of 10 to 80 psig, or 12.5 to 70 psig, or 15 to 60 psig, or 17.5 to 50 psig. In some embodiments, the fifth pressure may be in the range of 2 to 25 psig, or 3 to 22.5 psig, or 5 to 20 psig. In some embodiments, the dehumidified gas may be stored in pressurized storage tank 126 and may be stored at a pressure of at least 125 psig. In some embodiments, the first pressure may be 3 psig, the second pressure may be 100 psig, the third pressure may be 125 psig, the fourth pressure may be 25 psig, and the fifth pressure may be 10 psig. As will be appreciated, in each case, the second pressure through the fifth pressure will each be greater than the first pressure, which is the effective ambient pressure when the first and second compartments are locked.

[0052] 2, 14, and 16, the gas handling system 78 is adapted to supply air at a fourth pressure to at least one equipment cooling diffuser 73, at least one battery cooling diffuser 77, or both 73, 77, which are adapted to blow air onto the equipment stored in the equipment rack 70 and at least one battery stored in the battery rack 74, respectively. The cooling diffusers 73, 77 blow air over the equipment and / or batteries in contact with the heat transfer particles and toward the inner sidewall 48. The cooling diffusers 73, 77 thus facilitate heat dissipation and help maintain the first and second compartments 14, 16 at a desired operating temperature for the equipment and batteries. In some embodiments, the cooling diffusers 73, 77 may have the form of a pipe with a plurality of cooling orifices 75 therein for distributing the pressurized air exiting the end cap 79.

[0053] In some embodiments, the gas-handling system 78 also includes a first humidity sensor 138 in the first compartment 14. The gas-handling system 78 may be adapted to vent the air in the first compartment 14 to the outside air and replace it with high-pressure dehumidified air when the first humidity sensor 138 detects that the humidity in the first compartment exceeds a predetermined level. In some embodiments, the gas-handling system 78 opens a purge vent 140 in the second compartment 16 and vents air from the first compartment 14 to the second compartment 16 through a compartment transfer vent 142. This process reduces the pressure in both the first compartment 14 and the second compartment 16, so that when the purge vent 140 is closed, the gas-handling system 78 can supply pressurized dehumidified air to both the first compartment 14 and the second compartment 16. The compartment transfer vent 142 may be closed either before or after the first compartment 14 and the second compartment 16 are repressurized (e.g., at the first pressure).

[0054] In some embodiments, gas treatment system 78 includes a second humidity sensor 144 in second compartment 16. Gas treatment system 78 may be adapted such that when second humidity sensor 144 detects that the humidity in second compartment 16 exceeds a predetermined level, the air in second compartment 16 is vented to the outside air and replaced with high-pressure dehumidified air. For example, the air in second compartment 16 can be vented through purge vent 140, which may then be closed before second compartment 16 is repressurized (e.g., at the first pressure).

[0055] In some embodiments, the purge vent 140 may be opened at regular intervals to dissipate hydrogen, regardless of the readings of the humidity sensors 138, 144 of the hydrogen sensor 146. In some embodiments, to maintain safe conditions, the regular interval for opening the purge vent 140 may be 1 to 60 seconds every 15 to 120 minutes. In some embodiments, the purge vent 140 may be opened for 2 to 45 seconds, or 3 to 30 seconds, or 4 to 20 seconds, or 5 to 15 seconds. In some embodiments, the purge vent 140 may be opened every 20 to 90 minutes, or every 25 to 60 minutes, or every 30 to 45 minutes.

[0056] In some embodiments, gas processing system 78 includes a hydrogen sensor 146 in second compartment 16. Gas processing system 78 may be adapted so that when hydrogen sensor 146 detects that the hydrogen concentration in second compartment 16 exceeds a predetermined level, the air in second compartment 16 is vented to the outside air and replaced with high-pressure dehumidified air. For example, the air in second compartment 16 can be vented through purge vent 140, which may then be closed before second compartment 16 is repressurized (e.g., at the first pressure). In some embodiments, underground enclosure 10 may be operated such that purge vent 140 is opened for 10 seconds every 30 minutes to vent hydrogen if hydrogen readings are not rising.

[0057] In some embodiments, the in-ground enclosure 10 also includes a power pedestal 150. The power pedestal 150 may include a lock box 152, which provides an operator access to an exterior control panel 154 for operating and monitoring the status of the in-ground enclosure 10. For example, an operator can use the exterior control panel to unlock the compartment covers 26, 28 and activate the equipment lift system 72, the battery lift system 76, or both 72, 76, to access the equipment rack 70, the battery rack 74, or both 70, 74. Each of the lift systems 72, 76 can include a lockout system 156 for maintaining the respective lift system 72, 76 in an extended position, so that the operator can access the interior of the first compartment 14 and / or the second compartment 16 without risk of being crushed by the lift system 72, 76 returning to the retracted position.

[0058] An example of such a locking system 156 is shown in Figure 15, where the holes in the top of the base plate align with the holes in the bottom of the middle plate so that the pins 156 can pass through the holes and maintain the lift systems 72, 76 in the extended position even in the event of a loss of air pressure. In some embodiments, each side of the lift systems 72, 76 may include a lockout system 156. This arrangement allows an operator to confidently enter the first compartment 14 or second compartment 16, knowing that the racks 70, 74 will retract to the closed position and not injure the operator.

[0059] In some embodiments, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 , the control panel 154 can provide an interface through which a user can monitor the performance of the underground enclosure 10 and the equipment contained therein. For example, in some embodiments, the control panel 154 can display current and / or historical temperature, humidity, pressure, and hydrogen levels within the first and second compartments 14, 16. In some embodiments, the control panel 154 can also display the current status of each of the components attached to the gas treatment system 76 (e.g., cover lock 80, inflatable seals 104a, 104b, diffusers 73, 77, pressurized storage tank 126). In some embodiments, the control panel 154 can also display current and historical performance data (e.g., data demand, dropped calls, communication errors, communication outages) of the equipment housed in the underground enclosure.

[0060] 1 and 2, the air intake line inlet 116 may be part of the power pedestal 150. In some embodiments, the purge vent 140 may exhaust to the power pedestal 150. Of course, the air intake line inlet 116 and the purge vent exhaust may be located in other protected locations.

[0061] In another embodiment, as shown in Figures 1 and 23, a telecommunications base station 300 is described. The telecommunications base station 300 may include an underground enclosure 10 as described herein, an antenna 302 coupled to a signal processor 304, and a power supply 306 consisting of a battery 308, wherein in a stored position, the signal processor 304 is located in a first compartment 14 and the battery 308 is located in a second compartment 16. As shown in Figure 23, the antenna 302 may be mounted to a vertical element or pole 320 to elevate the antenna 302 to a desired or required height for efficient signal transmission. While Figure 23 shows the antenna 302 mounted to a single vertical pole 320, the antenna 302 may instead be mounted to a light pole, a solar panel pole, a totem pole, a kiosk, various freestanding billboards, or almost any other type of vertical element 320 to allow for proper placement of the antenna 302.

[0062] Regarding proper vertical placement of the antenna 302, in another embodiment as shown in Figure 24, a vertical pole 320 may be constructed from multiple interconnected telescoping sections 320a, 320b, 320c. In such a configuration, the vertical pole 320 with the antenna 302 attached can be raised by extending one or more of the telescoping sections, and similarly, can be lowered by retracting one or more of the telescoping sections.

[0063] As also shown in FIG. 23 , conductive grounding element 330 includes at least one electrical or metallic grounding element electrically coupled to underground enclosure 10 in direct contact with the ground (e.g., soil, sand, etc.) to ensure electrical grounding of underground enclosure 10 and proper grounding of all signal processing equipment 304 housed therein. In some embodiments, conductive grounding element 330 is a conductive ring. In some embodiments, conductive grounding element 330 may have multiple redundant grounding portions. By way of example, two portions of such a conductive grounding element 330 are shown in FIG. 23 . In some embodiments, conductive grounding element 330 may be positioned below underground enclosure 10. In some embodiments, conductive grounding element 330 is a bare copper element buried in the ground at least three feet below ground level.

[0064] The signal processor 304 can be connected to a telecommunications cable 310 for connection to a terrestrial telecommunications network. The antenna 302 can be adapted to transmit and receive data to and from wireless devices including, but not limited to, a smartphone, a tablet computer, an automobile, or a laptop computer.

[0065] In operation, the underground enclosure 10 described herein allows cellular providers to place telecommunications base stations 300 in locations previously unavailable due to space constraints. The underground enclosure 10 described herein can be installed in conventional right-of-way locations, such as adjacent to roads and railroad tracks. Additionally, the underground enclosure 10 can be installed in parking lots and used as a parking spot when the underground enclosure is in the locked position. This development allows communication antennas to be placed in densely populated areas or areas where above-ground installation is impractical for any reason. This significantly enhances cellular providers' capabilities and provides unobtrusive coverage whenever additional bandwidth is needed.

[0066] In some embodiments, the underground enclosure 10 can be used in a variety of other applications. For example, in some embodiments, the underground enclosure 10 can enclose a plurality of batteries in the first and / or second compartments 14, 16, where the batteries are charged by a solar array and adapted to provide energy to a structure requiring energy (e.g., a home, an office building, a retail building, a warehouse, an excavation site, etc.). In other embodiments, the underground enclosure 10 can enclose a fuel cell in the first compartment 14 and a fuel (hydrogen tank) in the second compartment 16. The fuel cell can be adapted to provide energy to a structure requiring energy (e.g., a home, an office building, a retail building, a warehouse, an excavation site, etc.). In other embodiments, the underground enclosure 10 can house signaling devices, including data signaling devices. By way of example, such signaling devices may include traffic signaling devices and / or railway signaling devices. As will be appreciated, the underground enclosure 10, including the lift systems 72, 76, cover locks 80, and treatment system 78, can operate as described herein to protect equipment disposed in the circular enclosure 10. In some embodiments, such as those described for the solar array and fuel cell, the underground enclosure 10 can include a single compartment.

[0067] In some further embodiments, as shown in Figures 25-27, the in-ground enclosure 10 can be constructed with a single shell 12 defining a single interior compartment 14 and does not include a partition wall 24. Such a single-shell configuration has a single interior compartment 14. In such a configuration, there will be more interior space within the same sized in-ground enclosure 10. Thus, a single-shell 12 enclosure facilitates storage of more equipment in a smaller footprint compared to a two-compartment embodiment.

[0068] In some embodiments, the underground enclosure shell 12 may be manufactured from multiple panels 12a, 12b, etc., interconnected to form the underground enclosure shell 12. Using multiple panels to form the underground enclosure shell 12 simplifies the manufacturing process and also makes transporting disassembled underground enclosure shells 12 easier and less expensive. In such a configuration, assembly or manufacturing of the underground enclosure shell 12 may be completed at the location where the underground enclosure will be installed and deployed. For example, the panels 12a, 12b, etc. may be welded together, bolted together, or otherwise fastened together in a manner that enables them to form a shell 12 that is watertight, airtight, or both. During such assembly, adhesives or sealant materials (not shown) may be used to ensure a watertight and / or airtight configuration.

[0069] Although shown with a rectilinear or trapezoidal vertical cross-section (e.g., in FIG. 13 ), the in-ground enclosure shell 12 may be manufactured with other vertical cross-sectional shapes, including square or rectangular. Also, as shown in FIG. 28 , for particular efficiencies in manufacturing and installation, the in-ground enclosure shell 12 may be manufactured as a cylinder (with a rectangular vertical cross-section and a circular horizontal cross-section). Such a shape allows for relatively easy installation by drilling a hole in the ground to the depth of the cylinder and then placing the cylindrical in-ground shell 12 into the hole. As noted above, the cylindrical underground enclosure shell 12 may be manufactured using multiple panels that interconnect to form the in-ground enclosure shell. Such panels may also be curved to ensure that the shape of the in-ground enclosure shell 12 is maintained and structurally stable.

[0070] In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 26 and 27, the in-ground enclosure 10 may be formed of a single shell 12 and a single interior compartment 14. The in-ground enclosure 10 may include an interior compartment opening 20 and a compartment cover 26. In some embodiments, as is evident from Figure 26, the shell 12 may be formed from several interconnected shell panels 12a, 12b, etc. The interior compartment 14 may include all of the equipment and functionality discussed herein, such as, but not limited to, equipment racks, equipment lift systems, air handling systems, sensor arrays, and multiple external conduits 30 that may be sealed with conduit couplers 32.

[0071] To enhance heat transfer in embodiments of the underground enclosure 10 having a single shell, as shown in FIG. 25 , a layer of heat transfer particles 54 may be formed by placing or packing the heat transfer particles in direct contact with the exterior of the shell, surrounding all exterior surfaces of the underground enclosure shell 12, which is the subgrade. In some embodiments, the layer of heat transfer particles 54 may be deposited as a foundation upon which the base 66 of the underground enclosure shell 12 rests. In some embodiments, the layer of heat transfer particles may be formed around the sides 50 of the underground enclosure shell 12 by depositing the dry particles or pouring them as a slurry around the sides of the underground enclosure shell 12. As described above, once the heat transfer particles 54 are poured or placed around the underground enclosure shell 12, the layer of heat transfer particles 54 may be densified to ensure uniform contact between the exterior sides of the underground enclosure and the surrounding ground (soil, sand, rock, etc.). The properties and techniques described for the multiple heat transfer particles 54 described with respect to the two-compartment embodiment above are equally applicable to embodiments in which a layer of heat transfer particles is disposed beneath and / or around the underground enclosure shell 12.

[0072] Analysis has shown that surrounding the geoshell 12 with at least 10 to 12 inches of heat transfer particles 54 facilitates extracting heat from the underground enclosure 10. In some embodiments, the thickness of the layer of heat transfer particles 54 surrounding the sides 50 of the geoshell 12 may be at least 1 inch, or at least 3 inches, or at least 5 inches, or at least 7 inches, or at least 9 inches, or at least 12 inches, or at least 15 inches, or at least 18 inches, or at least 24 inches, or any range formed by these endpoints and any intermediate points (e.g., 1-18 inches). In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 25, the layer of heat transfer particles is thicker toward the base 66 of the geoshell 12 than near the surface. In some embodiments, the thickness of the layer of heat transfer particles 54 below the outer base 66 of the geoshell 12 may be at least 9 inches, or at least 12 inches, or at least 15 inches, or at least 18 inches.

[0073] As described above, the equipment lift system 72, the battery lift system 76, or both 72, 76 may be operated hydraulically, mechanically, or a combination of both. By way of example, the equipment lift system 72 or the battery lift system 76 may be operated using a hydraulically driven scissor lift system. In some embodiments, the equipment lift system 72 or the battery lift system 76 may be operated using a mechanical spring system. By using such a spring system, including a torsion spring system, operation of the equipment lift system 72 or the battery lift system 76 may be achieved without external pneumatic, hydraulic, or electric power. Such a system allows for essentially passive operation of the equipment lift system 72 and / or the battery lift system 76. Furthermore, such passive control of the lift systems 72, 76 may be augmented by external input and control via one or more of the pneumatic, hydraulic, or electric drive systems.

[0074] In some embodiments, as shown and described above in connection with FIG. 2 , the in-ground enclosure 10 may include a gas handling system 78 with a dehumidifier 110 and an air compressor 112 disposed within the outer shell 12. In some embodiments, the dehumidifier 110 may be configured as a heat pump or an air conditioner. In such embodiments, the gas handling system 78 may also accurately be described as an air handling system 78 for dehumidifying and conditioning the air inside the in-ground enclosure 10. Further, as an air handling system 78, operation of the system may include an ambient air intake line 114 having an air intake line inlet 116 in fluid communication with ambient air outside the outer shell 12 and an air intake line outlet 118 in fluid communication with a compressor inlet 120.

[0075] As described above, the gas processing system 78 can include or be connected to a processor 108 for processing information from the various sensors 138, 144, 146, switches 136, valves 140, 142, electronic devices 112, controlling the gas processing system 78, and communicating with connected devices, such as remotely located devices such as handheld devices, tablets, or laptop computers. Explaining further, the sensors may include one or more temperature, humidity, pressure, hydrogen, acoustic, vibration, or other environmental condition sensors.

[0076] Although processor 108 is not shown connected to any particular electromechanical equipment, it is understood that processor 108 can communicate with any or all electromechanical equipment necessary to operate in-ground enclosure 10 or telecommunications base station 300 via any technology known in the art (examples include, but are not limited to, hardwire, WiFi, Bluetooth, RF, etc.). Additionally, processor 108 may operate one or more valves 140, 142, one or more electronic devices 112 to vent the interior of in-ground enclosure 10 if conditions detected within in-ground enclosure 10 warrant venting. By way of example, if a humidity sensor within the in-ground enclosure detects a humidity level above a predetermined level, the air within the in-ground enclosure may be vented to the outside air and replaced with dehumidified or conditioned air.

[0077] Similarly, if a temperature sensor in the underground enclosure detects a temperature level above a predetermined level, the processor 108 may reduce or set the temperature level of the air conditioner 110 to reduce the temperature of the air in the underground enclosure.

[0078] Upon receiving data from one or more of the various sensors 138, 144, 146, the processor 108 may send an alert notification to one or more remote devices 370, such as a handheld device (e.g., a smartphone), a tablet, or a laptop. The alert notification provided by the processor 108 is based on the sensor data received by the processor 108 and indicates that one or more of the sensor data exceeds a predetermined level or is approaching an abnormal condition.

[0079] A first particular embodiment comprises an enclosure for housing electrical components, the enclosure comprising: a shell defining an interior compartment; a top panel with a compartment opening for accessing the interior compartment; a compartment cover adapted to removably seal the compartment opening; and an equipment rack coupled to the compartment cover and further coupled to a base of the interior compartment, the equipment lift system adapted to move between a stored position in which the compartment cover seals the interior compartment opening and an extended position in which the equipment rack extends through the compartment opening to provide above-ground access to the equipment rack. The enclosure can be adapted for underground installation.

[0080] A second particular embodiment includes the first particular embodiment, wherein the shell is formed by a plurality of interconnected panels.

[0081] A third specific embodiment includes the first or second specific embodiment, wherein when the compartment cover seals the internal compartment opening, the internal compartment can be hermetically isolated from an ambient environment outside the enclosure.

[0082] A fourth particular embodiment includes any one of the first to third particular embodiments, wherein the compartment cover comprises at least one reinforcing sheet embedded therein.

[0083] A fifth specific embodiment includes any one of the first to fourth specific embodiments, further comprising a conductive grounding element electrically connected to the shell and the equipment rack.

[0084] A sixth particular embodiment includes any one of the first to fifth particular embodiments, wherein the equipment lift system is a hydraulically driven lift system.

[0085] A seventh particular embodiment includes any one of the first to sixth particular embodiments, wherein the equipment lift system is at least partially driven by a passive spring-loaded lift system.

[0086] An eighth particular embodiment includes any one of the first to seventh particular embodiments, wherein the equipment rack houses a signaling device.

[0087] A ninth specific embodiment includes any one of the first to eighth specific embodiments, further including a layer of heat transfer particles surrounding the shell, wherein the bulk density of the layer of heat transfer particles surrounding the shell is at least 75% of the density of the heat transfer particles.

[0088] A tenth specific embodiment includes any one of the first through ninth specific embodiments, wherein the layer of heat transfer particles adjacent the side of the shell, the base of the shell, or both, is at least about 1 inch thick.

[0089] An eleventh specific embodiment includes any one of the first through tenth specific embodiments, wherein the heat transfer particles include expanded graphite particles.

[0090] A twelfth particular embodiment includes any one of the first through eleventh particular embodiments, further comprising an air handling system, which in some embodiments includes an air conditioner and dehumidifier housed within the shell and an ambient air intake line having an air intake line inlet in fluid communication with ambient air outside the shell, said gas handling system adapted to supply conditioned and dehumidified air to the interior compartment.

[0091] A thirteenth specific embodiment includes any one of the first to twelfth specific embodiments, wherein the air treatment system further comprises a first humidity sensor in the internal compartment, and when the first humidity sensor detects that the humidity in the internal compartment exceeds a predetermined level, the dehumidifier is activated to supply dehumidified air to the internal compartment.

[0092] A fourteenth specific embodiment includes any one of the first to thirteenth specific embodiments, further comprising a temperature sensor in the internal compartment, wherein when the temperature sensor detects that the temperature in the internal compartment exceeds a predetermined level, the air conditioner is activated to lower the temperature in the internal compartment.

[0093] A fifteenth particular embodiment includes any one of the first through fourteenth particular embodiments, further comprising a sensor array. The sensor array, in some embodiments, comprises at least one of a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, a pressure sensor, a hydrogen sensor, an acoustic sensor, and a vibration sensor for monitoring internal environmental conditions of the interior compartment. This embodiment may also include an alert notification system communicatively connected to the communications network, wherein the alert notification system sends an alert signal to at least one preselected user when any of the sensors in the sensor array detects a respective level above a predetermined level.

[0094] A sixteenth particular embodiment comprises an enclosure for housing electrical components. The enclosure for housing electrical components comprises: a cylindrical shell defining an interior compartment and having a compartment opening for accessing the interior compartment; a compartment cover adapted to removably seal the interior compartment opening; and an equipment rack with an equipment lift system coupled to both the compartment cover and a base of the interior compartment. The equipment lift system is adapted to move between a retracted position in which the compartment cover seals the interior compartment opening and the cylindrical shell, and an extended position in which the equipment rack extends through the top opening to provide above-ground access to the equipment rack. The enclosure can be adapted for underground installation.

[0095] A seventeenth particular embodiment includes the sixteenth particular embodiment, wherein the outer shell comprises a plurality of curved panels interconnected to form a closed shell.

[0096] An eighteenth specific embodiment includes a telecommunications base station. The telecommunications base station may include an enclosure for housing the electrical components of any of the first through seventeenth embodiments, such as an enclosure with an outer shell defining an interior compartment; an equipment rack with a top panel having a compartment opening for accessing the interior compartment; a compartment cover adapted to removably seal the compartment opening; and an equipment lift system coupled to both the compartment cover and the base of the interior compartment. The telecommunications base station further includes a cellular base station with an antenna coupled to a signal processor; and a power supply with a battery, a connection to an external power source, or both. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the signal processor and battery are coupled to the equipment rack, and in a stored position, the signal processor and battery are housed within the interior compartment, and in an extended position, the equipment rack extends through the compartment opening, and the telecommunications base station is adapted for underground installation.

[0097] A nineteenth particular embodiment includes the eighteenth particular embodiment, further comprising a ground vertical element to which the antenna is connected.

[0098] A twentieth particular embodiment includes the eighteenth or nineteenth particular embodiment, wherein the vertical element to which the antenna is connected comprises a plurality of telescoping sections for increasing or decreasing the height of the antenna.

[0099] A twenty-first particular embodiment includes any of the eighteenth to twentieth particular embodiments, wherein the above-ground vertical element is one of a lamppost, a kiosk, a solar panel pole, a totem pole, or an advertising sign.

[0100] While the subject matter has been described with reference to illustrative embodiments, it is not limited thereto. It should be noted that the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale, and the particular dimensions of the drawings are not intended to be limiting. Rather, the scope of the appended claims should be interpreted broadly to include other modifications and embodiments that may occur to those skilled in the art.

Claims

1. a shell defining an interior compartment; a top panel having an interior compartment opening for accessing the interior compartment; a compartment cover adapted to removably seal the interior compartment opening; an equipment rack with an equipment lift system coupled to both the compartment cover and the base of the interior compartment; Equipped with the equipment lift system is adapted to move between a stowed position in which the compartment cover seals the interior compartment opening and an extended position in which the equipment rack extends through the compartment opening to provide ground access to the equipment rack; 1. An enclosure for housing electrical components adapted for underground installation, comprising: (i) when the compartment cover seals the interior compartment opening, the interior compartment can be hermetically isolated from an ambient environment outside the enclosure; or (ii) further comprising an air handling system including an air conditioner and a dehumidifier housed within the shell and an ambient air intake line having an air intake line inlet in fluid communication with ambient air outside the shell, the air handling system adapted to supply conditioned and dehumidified air to the interior compartment; a sensor array for monitoring an internal environmental condition of the internal compartment, the sensor array comprising at least one of a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, a pressure sensor, a hydrogen sensor, an acoustic sensor, and a vibration sensor; an alert notification system communicatively connected to a communications network; Furthermore, and wherein the alert notification system sends an alert signal to at least one preselected user when any of the sensors in the sensor array detects a respective level that exceeds a predetermined level. Enclosure.

2. 10. The enclosure of claim 1, wherein the shell is formed by a plurality of interconnected panels.

3. 10. The enclosure of claim 1, wherein the compartment cover includes at least one stiffening sheet embedded therein.

4. 10. The enclosure of claim 1, further comprising a conductive grounding element electrically connected to said shell and said equipment rack.

5. The enclosure of claim 1 , wherein the equipment lift system is a hydraulically driven lift system.

6. The enclosure of claim 1 , wherein the equipment lift system is at least partially driven by a passive spring-loaded lift system.

7. The enclosure of claim 1 , wherein the equipment rack houses a signaling device.

8. 10. The enclosure of claim 1, further comprising a layer of heat transfer particles surrounding the shell, the bulk density of the layer of heat transfer particles surrounding the shell being at least 75% of the density of the heat transfer particles.

9. 10. The enclosure of claim 8, wherein the layer of heat transfer particles adjacent the sides of the shell, the base of the shell, or both, is at least about 1 inch thick.

10. The enclosure of claim 8 , wherein the heat transfer particles include expanded graphite particles.

11. the air handling system further comprising a first humidity sensor within the interior compartment; 2. The enclosure of claim 1, wherein when the first humidity sensor detects that the humidity in the interior compartment exceeds a predetermined level, the dehumidifier is activated to supply dehumidified air to the interior compartment.

12. the air handling system further comprising a temperature sensor within the interior compartment; 2. The enclosure of claim 1, wherein the air conditioner is activated to reduce the temperature of the interior compartment when the temperature sensor detects that the temperature within the interior compartment exceeds a predetermined level.

13. a cylindrical shell defining an interior compartment and having an interior compartment opening for accessing said interior compartment; a compartment cover adapted to removably seal the interior compartment opening; an equipment rack with an equipment lift system coupled to both the compartment cover and the base of the interior compartment; Equipped with the equipment lift system is adapted to move between a stowed position in which the compartment cover seals the interior compartment opening and the cylindrical shell, and an extended position in which the equipment rack extends through the interior compartment opening to provide ground access to the equipment rack.

1. An enclosure for housing electrical components adapted for underground installation, comprising: (i) when the compartment cover seals the interior compartment opening, the interior compartment can be hermetically isolated from an ambient environment outside the enclosure; or (ii) further comprising an air handling system including an air conditioner and a dehumidifier housed within the shell and an ambient air intake line having an air intake line inlet in fluid communication with ambient air outside the shell, the air handling system adapted to supply conditioned and dehumidified air to the interior compartment; a sensor array for monitoring an internal environmental condition of the internal compartment, the sensor array comprising at least one of a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, a pressure sensor, a hydrogen sensor, an acoustic sensor, and a vibration sensor; an alert notification system communicatively connected to a communications network; Furthermore, and wherein the alert notification system sends an alert signal to at least one preselected user when any of the sensors in the sensor array detects a respective level that exceeds a predetermined level. Enclosure.

14. An enclosure as described in claim 13, wherein the cylindrical shell comprises a plurality of curved panels interconnected to form a sealed shell.

15. an outer shell defining an interior compartment; a top panel having an interior compartment opening for accessing the interior compartment; a compartment cover adapted to removably seal the interior compartment opening; an equipment rack with an equipment lift system coupled to both the compartment cover and the base of the interior compartment; an enclosure for housing an electrical component, comprising: a cellular base station having an antenna coupled to a signal processor; and a power source having a battery, a connection to an external power source, or both; the signal processor and the battery are coupled to the equipment rack; In a storage position, the signal processing device and the battery are housed within the interior compartment, and in an extended position, the equipment rack extends through the compartment opening.

1. A telecommunications base station adapted for underground installation, comprising: (i) when the compartment cover seals the interior compartment opening, the interior compartment can be hermetically isolated from an ambient environment outside the enclosure; or (ii) further comprising an air handling system including an air conditioner and a dehumidifier housed within the shell and an ambient air intake line having an air intake line inlet in fluid communication with ambient air outside the shell, the air handling system adapted to supply conditioned and dehumidified air to the interior compartment; a sensor array for monitoring an internal environmental condition of the internal compartment, the sensor array comprising at least one of a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, a pressure sensor, a hydrogen sensor, an acoustic sensor, and a vibration sensor; an alert notification system communicatively connected to a communications network; Furthermore, and wherein the alert notification system sends an alert signal to at least one preselected user when any of the sensors in the sensor array detects a respective level that exceeds a predetermined level. Telecommunications base station.

16. 16. The telecommunications base station of claim 15, further comprising a ground vertical element to which said antenna is connected.

17. 17. The telecommunications base station of claim 16, wherein the vertical element to which the antenna is connected comprises a plurality of telescoping sections for increasing or decreasing the height of the antenna.

18. 17. The telecommunications base station of claim 16, wherein the vertical element on the ground is one of a lamppost, a kiosk, a solar panel pole, a totem pole, or an advertising billboard.

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