Modular Mast Support Module for Equipment Housing and Passive Venting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing telecommunication infrastructure elements, such as masts connected directly to concrete blocks, face limitations in space utilization, equipment implementation, and structural reinforcement due to direct grounding, which complicates installation and maintenance, and are prone to overheating and vandalism.
Innovation Solution
A modular infrastructure element comprising a mast fixed to a support module that houses electrical equipment, allowing for improved space utilization, simplified cable entry, reduced weight and cost, and passive ventilation, with enhanced security features.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the mast is fixed directly to the ground through a concrete block, then the structural stability is ensured, but the space for equipment installation is significantly limited and the configuration cannot be easily changed
Solution Approach 1:
The infrastructure is divided into separate functional modules: the mast structure, the support module containing equipment, and the concrete block. This segmentation allows the support module to be positioned at different locations around the mast base, providing configuration flexibility while the mast remains securely anchored to the concrete block for structural stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The support module acts as an intermediary between the mast and the equipment. Instead of fixing equipment directly to the ground or mast base, the support module provides a flexible platform that can be positioned and configured independently, enabling easy reconfiguration while maintaining overall structural integrity through its connection to the stable concrete block.
2Ease of operation
If a lateral enclosure is added to the mast base to pass cables or insert equipment, then the equipment installation is enabled, but the mast is weakened and costly reinforcements are required
Solution Approach 1:
The enclosure and equipment housing functions are extracted from the mast structure itself and placed into a separate support module. This eliminates the need to cut openings or add enclosures to the mast, preserving the mast's structural integrity while still enabling easy equipment installation and cable management within the detached support module.
Solution Approach 2:
The system is segmented so that the mast remains a pure support structure for antennas, while the support module handles all equipment housing, cable management, and access functions. This separation allows the mast to maintain full structural strength without compromises for equipment installation.
3Temperature
If active fan cooling is used in street furniture elements, then the overheating problem is prevented, but the energy consumption increases and noise is generated
Solution Approach 1:
The support module is designed with passive ventilation features including ventilation grilles and natural convection pathways that allow air to circulate and cool equipment without requiring active fan systems. The structure itself provides the cooling function through its design, eliminating the need for energy-consuming moving parts while maintaining effective temperature control.
Data Source
AI summary
Mast infrastructure element and support module. Disclosed is an infrastructure element (1) including a mast (2) capable of receiving at least one telecommunication antenna (20), and at least one support module (3) which is closed at the top and capable of receiving electrical equipment (E) within it permanently, the mast (2) being fastened onto the support module (3) without passing through it vertically, and at least one non-supporting accessory module (4,5) capable of receiving electrical equipment (E), the accessory module (4,5) being joined laterally to the support module (3).