Pole Structure for Wireless Node Housing and Heat Dissipation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional RF equipment is bulky, visually intrusive, and poses challenges with heat dissipation and maintenance access when installed on existing structures, particularly in residential settings, due to their non-specific design for housing wireless nodes and micro-cell sites.
Innovation Solution
A dual-use pole structure with a larger lower portion housing a steel modular lattice core for radios and optimal airflow, and a removable x-frame module system for ease of maintenance, combined with a perforated steel plate for segregating high and low voltage wiring, and interchangeable outer skins for aesthetics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional RF cabinets and antenna arrays are installed on existing structures, then wireless node deployment is achieved, but the installations become bulky and visually intrusive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates RF equipment cabinets and antenna arrays within a pole structure, nesting the wireless communication components inside the pole's hollow interior space. This eliminates the need for separate external RF cabinets and reduces visual intrusion while maintaining full wireless node functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the pole structure with RF equipment housing into a single integrated unit. The pole serves dual purposes: structural support and equipment enclosure. This merging of functions eliminates the need for separate RF cabinets and antenna mounting structures, reducing overall bulk and visual intrusion.
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional RF equipment is installed on existing structures, then wireless communication functionality is provided, but heat dissipation becomes problematic
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates ventilation openings and perforated panels in the pole structure to enable airflow through the interior space where RF equipment is housed. This porous design allows heat to dissipate effectively while the equipment operates, solving the heat dissipation problem without compromising functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses natural convection airflow (a pneumatic principle) through strategically placed ventilation openings to create continuous air circulation around the RF equipment. This passive cooling system removes heat efficiently without requiring active cooling mechanisms.
3Adaptability or versatility
If conventional RF equipment is installed on existing structures, then wireless node operation is enabled, but maintenance access becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the pole structure into accessible sections with removable panels or doors that provide direct access to RF equipment cabinets and antenna arrays. This segmentation allows maintenance personnel to reach equipment without dismantling the entire pole structure, significantly improving maintenance accessibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent incorporates pre-designed access panels and maintenance openings in the pole structure during manufacturing. These preliminary access points are strategically positioned to provide easy reach to all RF equipment components, eliminating the need for complex disassembly during maintenance operations.
4Shape
If RF equipment is housed in the pole structure, then aesthetic concerns are addressed, but structural design complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs a universal pole structure that serves multiple functions: structural support, equipment housing, ventilation, and aesthetic integration. This multi-functional design consolidates what would otherwise require separate components, actually reducing overall system complexity while achieving aesthetic goals.
Data Source
AI summary
A pole structure has been modified to house the antenna arrays, radios and electrical apparatus associated with a wireless node or micro-cell site. The upper part of the pole, which can be configured as a light, utility, sign or flag pole, supports for encloses the node's antenna arrays. The lower portion of the pole, having a larger diameter than the upper part, encloses a street modular lattice core structure, on which the radios are supported on removable x-frame modules for ease of maintenance with optimal air flow and heat dissipation. A rolled steel outer skin/sheath of the lower pole has multiple hinged doors to provide ready access to the lattice core and the radios.