Security Post

Abstract

A security post including an elongated body with a proximal end and a distal end. A plurality of cut-outs arranged on the elongated body. A wireless camera positioned substantially within a first cut-out, a solar panel positioned substantially within a second cut-out, and where the solar panel supplies power to the wireless camera. The security post may include an audio speaker positioned substantially within a third cut-out. A cap is positioned at the proximal end of the elongated body, and the security post consists essentially of thermoplastic, polyvinyl chloride, or polyethylene.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] None.BACKGROUND

[0002] This section is intended to introduce the reader to various aspects of art that may be related to various aspects of the presently described embodiments. This discussion is believed to be helpful in providing the reader with background information to facilitate a better understanding of the various aspects of the present embodiments. Accordingly, it should be understood these statements are to be read in this light, and not as admissions of prior art.

[0003] Residential and commercial security networks are common and efficient at deterring potential crime; however, security networks have inherent problems. The present invention solves the problems discussed below.

[0004] Indoor cameras are readily available to the common consumer and are expensive compared to outdoor cameras. It is desirable for an indoor camera to be adapted for outdoor use. For indoor cameras to be placed outside, one must ensure they are protected from the elements. One way to do this is by using enclosures specifically designed for indoor cameras.

[0005] Enclosures of this type are usually made of durable materials like aluminum or plastic; weather-resistant features like waterproofing and UV protection are necessary. These enclosures must also protect your camera from dust, debris, and other environmental factors that can damage the camera.

[0006] Important considerations for choosing enclosures of this type are the size and shape of your camera and solar panel. The enclosure should be large enough to accommodate the camera and solar panel and have the necessary cutouts. In addition to protection from the elements, it is desirable that enclosures provide additional security to keep people from tampering with the camera and solar panel.

[0007] It is well known that the current art for these enclosures does not provide the same level of protection as a camera specifically designed for outdoor use. While current art may protect the camera from some environmental factors, such as dust and debris, they commonly fail from stress from weather conditions like rain, snow, or high winds. Additionally, the current art does not provide the same level of security as a camera specifically designed for outdoor use, which leaves cameras and other security elements vulnerable to theft or vandalism.

[0008] The present invention solves the problem of providing an enclosure for indoor cameras to be adapted for outdoor use.

[0009] In addition to the aforementioned problems, concealing security cameras is essential to maintaining security and privacy. Security cameras serve as a deterrent to potential intruders; however, visible security cameras may also attract unwanted attention and indicate the presence of valuable assets. By concealing security cameras, property owners can maintain a low profile and prevent intruders from identifying the location of the cameras. It also ensures that the cameras are not tampered with or damaged by intruders who want to avoid being caught on camera. Concealing security cameras is crucial in maintaining a secure and private environment without compromising the safety of the property and its occupants. Therefore, concealing a security camera and other security components is desirable. The present invention solves this problem.

[0010] It is well known that fences are common outdoor structural enclosures. Typically, an exemplary fence comprises boards arranged along posts. Adapting an existing fence is more cost-efficient than installing a new fence. Integrating a camera within an existing fence or adapting a fence to conceal a camera and other security components within a structural post is needed.

[0011] Alternatively, it is desirable to have a stand-alone system that conceals a camera and other security components within a structural fence post.

[0012] Dummy security cameras are an important component of any security system. They are designed to look like real cameras but do not actually record anything. The primary function of dummy cameras is to act as a deterrent to potential criminals. When people see these cameras, they are less likely to attempt to break in or commit any other criminal activity.

[0013] Moreover, dummy cameras are cost-effective alternatives to real cameras. They are much cheaper than security cameras and require no maintenance or monitoring. Typically, they can also be installed relatively easily without any complicated wiring or technical setup.

[0014] In addition, dummy cameras can also be used in conjunction with real cameras to enhance the overall security of the area. Placing dummy cameras in areas where real cameras are not present can create an illusion that the entire area is under surveillance, which can deter criminals from committing any crime.

[0015] Therefore, it is desirable to implement dummy security cameras into a security system as they help create a perception of security and deter potential criminals. They are a cost-effective and easy way to enhance the overall security of any area. However, there is yet a solution to adequately integrate this component as an option into a system to attach to a fence.

[0016] Mesh networks are known for their scalability and efficiency as internet systems. They have several advantages over traditional router-based networks, including better coverage and reliable connectivity. In a typical mesh network, multiple wireless access points or nodes communicate with each other to create a seamless network. This ensures that if one node loses connectivity or fails, the other nodes can still maintain the network connection. As such, integrating mesh network systems into a security network is highly desirable. The present invention offers a solution to integrate mesh networks into a security network.

[0017] There is a common problem when adapting various security components to an existing system or unifying different components from various manufacturers. The present solves this problem, among the others already described.BRIEF SUMMARY

[0018] Certain aspects of some embodiments disclosed herein are set forth below. It should be understood that these aspects are presented merely to provide the reader with a brief summary of certain forms the invention might take and that these aspects are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. Indeed, the invention may encompass a variety of aspects that may not be set forth below.

[0019] The security post invention is directed to an apparatus and system that satisfies the above-described needs. The security post generally comprises an elongated body, a camera, a solar panel, and a cap.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

[0020] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with regard to the following description, appended claims, and accompanying drawings where:

[0021] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the security post.

[0022] FIG. 2 is a front view of the security post.

[0023] FIG. 3 is a side view of the security post.

[0024] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of one embodiment of the security post.

[0025] FIG. 5 is a front view of an exemplary fence.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0026] One or more specific embodiments of the present disclosure will be described below. In an effort to provide a concise description of these embodiments, all features of an actual implementation may not be described in the specification. It should be appreciated that in the development of any such actual implementation, as in any engineering or design project, numerous implementation-specific decisions must be made to achieve the developers'specific goals, such as compliance with system-related and business-related constraints, which may vary from one implementation to another. Moreover, it should be appreciated that such a development effort might be complex and time-consuming but would nevertheless be a routine undertaking of design, fabrication, and manufacture for those of ordinary skill having the benefit of this disclosure.

[0027] When introducing elements of various embodiments, the articles “a,”“an,”“the” and “said” are intended to mean that there are one or more of the elements. The terms “comprising,”“including,”“having,” and grammatical equivalents thereof are intended to be inclusive and mean that there may be additional elements other than the listed elements.

[0028] To easily identify the discussion of any particular element or act, the most significant digit or digits in a reference number refer to the figure number in which that element is first introduced.

[0029] In one aspect, a fence post includes an elongated body with a proximal end and a distal end, a plurality of cut-outs along the elongated body, a camera positioned substantially within a first cut-out, a solar panel positioned substantially within a second cut-out, and where the solar panel supplies power to the camera, and a cap positioned at the proximal end of the elongated body.

[0030] In one aspect, a fence post includes an elongated body with a proximal end and a distal end, a plurality of cut-outs along the elongated body, a wireless camera positioned substantially within a first cut-out, a solar panel positioned substantially within a second cut-out, and where the solar panel supplies power to the wireless camera, an audio speaker is positioned substantially within a third cut-out, a cap positioned at the proximal end of the elongated body, and the fence post consisting of a durable weather-resistant material, preferably a thermoplastic, polyvinyl chloride, or polyethylene.

[0031] Moreover, any use of “top,”“bottom,”“above,”“below,” other directional terms, and variations of these terms is made for convenience, but does not require any particular orientation of the components.

[0032] The term “at least” followed by a number is used herein to denote the start of a range beginning with that number (which may be a range having an upper limit or no upper limit, depending on the variable being defined). For example, “at least 1” means 1 or more than 1.

[0033] The term “at most” followed by a number is used herein to denote the end of a range ending with that number (which may be a range having 1 or 0 as its lower limit, or a range having no lower limit, depending upon the variable being defined). For example, “at most 4” means 4 or less than 4, and “at most 40% means 40% or less than 40−%.

[0034] When in this specification, a range is given as “(a first number) to (a second number)” or “(a first number)-(a second number),” this means a range whose lower limit is the first number and whose upper limit is the second number. For example, 25 to 100 mm means a range whose lower limit is 25 mm, and whose upper limit 100 mm.

[0035] “Camera” refers to is a type of surveillance camera that transmits video signals to a video recording device through a hard-wired or wireless connection. The recording device need not be tangible but may be implemented through other means such as the “cloud.” The recording device may include audio and video recording.

[0036] “Security component” refers to devices that are part of a security network. Common components include cameras, audio systems, and sensors. In some variations, security may also include mesh network systems.

[0037] Turning to the present figures, FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the security post 102. The purpose of the security post 102 is to provide a virtually flush and concealed enclosure for a security system comprised of various security components. The security system of the kind disclosed includes at least one camera and solar panel (not illustrated).

[0038] The security post 102 comprises an elongated body 104, preferably hollow, with a cap 106 at the proximal end and resting on top of the elongated body 104. The distal end can be adapted to engage a ground or like surface. The elongated body 104 is the main support enclosure for the camera and the solar panel. In the preferred embodiment of the security post, 102, the elongated body 104 is 5 inches in width by 5 inches in depth, with a minimum height of 10 inches. The elongated body 104 can be of various heights with no maximum; likewise, the width and depth can differ from the preferred dimensions. The elongated body 104 consists preferably of thermoplastic, polyvinyl chloride, or polyethylene.

[0039] Alternate embodiments of the present invention may include a wire holder (not illustrated) for compatibility with wired security components. For example, a camera may be wired or wireless. A wire holder may be installed within the elongated body 104. The wire holder can keep the wires securely engaged and decluttered for various security components.

[0040] It should be appreciated that the security post provides a flush enclosure to conceal a security component. In the preferred embodiment, the solar panel is connected to the camera by means of wiring to provide a power source to the camera. However, other power sources, such as wired or battery, may be included in other embodiments of the security post 102.

[0041] It should further be appreciated that the cut-outs, including the first cut-out 108 and the second cut-out 110, can accommodate security components of various sizes, makes, and models—the utility of the present invention is not limited to a specific design of a particular security component.

[0042] The cap 106 may be removed for a security component installation or, in some cases, may be left on during installation. Each cut-out is preferably precision cut to match the profile of the security component. The security component can be user-installed or manufactured-installed by pressing the security component into a corresponding cut-out, thereby sealingly engaging the security component. The security post protects the security component from outside elements such as wind, rain, and heat. Therefore, a security component for indoor use may be installed in the present invention for outdoor use.

[0043] FIG. 2 is a front of the security post 102. As shown in FIG. 2, the first cut-out may be round. Other polygonal, round shapes, or a combination thereof, may be used to accommodate various camera models or other security components.

[0044] FIG. 3 is a side view of the security post 102. The second cut-out 110 is preferably for a solar panel. Similar to the first cut-out 108, it should be appreciated that the second cut-out 110 may be of different sizes and shapes to accommodate various solar panel models or a different security component entirely.

[0045] FIG. 4 is an alternate embodiment of the security post 102 is shown. A third cut-out 402 wherein an audio speaker or other security component may be positioned substantially within.

[0046] FIG. 5 is a front view of an exemplary fence and fence post 512 featuring security post 102 replacing a fence post 512. The present invention may be affixed to a fence support through various means. It should be appreciated that alternate shapes may be implemented as the elongated body 104 to resemble an existing fence post 512, such as a round fence post, a wider fence post, or an entirely different shape. Furthermore, the shape of the cap 106 can be modified to correspond with the shape of an existing fence post 512.

[0047] Security Post 102 is preferably used to replace one or more fence posts 512. There is no limit to how many Security Posts 102 may be integrated into an existing fence or how many are necessary.

[0048] Other alternate embodiments of the present invention may be implemented. For example, the camera may be wired or wireless. Other security components may include a mesh network system to extend a Wi-Fi range. The present invention may include beveled or rounded edges as depicted in the figures; however, the edges may be square.

[0049] Although the present invention has been described in considerable detail with reference to certain preferred versions thereof, other versions are possible. Therefore, the spirit and scope of the appended claims should not be limited to the description of the preferred versions contained herein. Any element in a claim that does not explicitly state “means for” performing a specified function or “step for” performing a specific function is not to be interpreted as a “means” or “step” clause as specified in 35 U.S.C. § 112, ¶ 6. In particular, the use of “step of” in the claims herein is not intended to invoke the provisions of 35 U.S.C. § 112, ¶ 6.

Claims

1. A security post comprising:a elongated body also serving as an enclosure with a proximal end and a distal end;a plurality of cut-outs along the elongated body and formed therethrough;a camera positioned substantially and recessed within a first cut-out;a solar panel positioned substantially and recessed within a second cut-out, and supplying power to the camera; anda cap positioned at the proximal end of the elongated body.

2. The post of claim 1, further comprising a third cut-out receiving an audio speaker.

3. The post of claim 1, where the camera is wireless.

4. The post of claim 1, further comprising a wire holder.

5. The post of claim 1, consisting essentially of thermoplastic, polyvinyl chloride, or polyethylene.

6. A security post comprising:an elongated body also serving as an enclosure with a proximal end and a distal end;a plurality of cut-outs along the elongated body and formed therethrough;a wireless camera positioned substantially and recessed within a first cut-out;a solar panel positioned substantially and recessed within a second cut-out, and supplying power to the wireless camera;an audio speaker is positioned within a third cut-out;a cap positioned at the proximal end of the elongated body; andthe fence post consisting essentially of thermoplastic, polyvinyl chloride, or polyethylene.

7. The post of claim 6, wherein the camera is fully recessed within the elongated body such that no portion of the camera extends beyond an exterior surface of the post.

8. The post of claim 6, wherein the solar panel is flush with the surface of the post.

9. The post of claim 6, wherein the camera is wireless and transmits image data to a remote device.

10. The post of claim 6, wherein the post body includes internal wiring channels connecting the solar panel to the camera.

11. A plurality of security posts, each having—an elongated body also serving as an enclosure with a proximal end and a distal end;a plurality of cut-outs along the elongated body and formed therethrough;a wireless camera positioned substantially and recessed within a first cut-out;a solar panel positioned substantially and recessed within a second cut-out, and supplying power to the wireless camera;an audio speaker is positioned within a third cut-out;a cap positioned at the proximal end of the elongated body; andthe fence post consisting essentially of thermoplastic, polyvinyl chloride, or polyethylene; andat least one of the posts having a dummy camera, not an operational camera, mounted therein.

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