Small Cell Deployment Scheduling Using 3D Virtual Site Surveys
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for managing and maintaining cell towers and small cells are hazardous and costly due to the need for frequent tower climbs, leading to safety concerns and service disruptions, and lack efficient tools for precise site planning and installation.
Innovation Solution
The use of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) and satellite data capture for 3D modeling and augmented reality systems to coordinate, prepare, and implement small cell deployments, reducing the need for physical tower climbs by providing detailed site data and virtual site surveys.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional tower climb methods are used for site surveys and small cell installation, then workers can directly access cell towers, but safety risks increase and service disruptions occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a virtual 3D copy of the cell tower and surrounding environment using photogrammetry and LiDAR technologies. This digital twin allows workers to perform site surveys, plan installations, and conduct virtual walk-throughs without physically climbing the tower, thereby eliminating safety risks while maintaining service continuity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical tower climb system with unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) equipped with cameras and sensors. These UAVs capture aerial imagery and data to create comprehensive 3D models, substituting human physical access with automated aerial reconnaissance and virtual visualization techniques
2Productivity
If manual tower climbs are performed for maintenance and installation work, then workers can perform hands-on tasks, but time is lost and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs comprehensive site surveys, 3D modeling, and installation planning in advance before any physical work begins. Virtual site surveys identify optimal small cell locations, assess structural conditions, and plan access routes beforehand, eliminating time-consuming on-site assessments and enabling faster deployment
Solution Approach 2:
The virtual 3D model serves as a digital replica that can be repeatedly accessed and analyzed without requiring repeated tower climbs. Workers can review the virtual model multiple times to plan different installation scenarios, reducing the need for multiple site visits and accelerating the overall workflow
3Manufacturing precision
If comprehensive site data is collected for accurate planning, then installation precision improves, but data collection complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple data collection technologies (photogrammetry cameras, LiDAR scanners, GPS positioning, and structural sensors) into an integrated aerial survey system. This unified approach captures geometric, textural, and spatial data simultaneously from the air, achieving comprehensive site characterization without the complexity of ground-based multi-device coordination
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from traditional ground-level or tower-top data collection to aerial three-dimensional data acquisition. By capturing site information from multiple angles and elevations simultaneously, the system obtains complete spatial context in a single survey pass, improving accuracy while reducing operational complexity
Data Source
AI summary
A method for scheduling construction of a small cell is described herein. The method includes, subsequent to development of a model of the small cell, developing a draft schedule comprising a matrix including an order of when each task for construction of the small cell is to be completed; vetting and testing the draft schedule for flow continuity and for viability of meeting deadlines outlined therein; generating a revised schedule from the draft schedule based on the vetting and testing of the draft schedule; and publishing the final schedule with the model of the small cell.