Smart Node Integration on Street Light Tenon
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for upgrading street lights to incorporate modern technological advances, such as small cell technology and Wi-Fi, often result in aesthetically unpleasant and difficult-to-manage installations that interfere with each other, and require expensive and time-consuming replacements or ad hoc modifications, failing to effectively utilize existing infrastructure.
Innovation Solution
A smart communications node is mounted directly behind the existing street light fixture on the tenon, integrating small cell technology, Wi-Fi antennas, and surveillance cameras in a streamlined manner, using existing infrastructure and allowing for seamless communication and power distribution through a managed switch, enabling efficient and aesthetically acceptable upgrades.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If small cell technology and Wi-Fi routers are added to street lights through ad hoc modifications, then modern technological functionality is achieved, but aesthetic appearance deteriorates and system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates small cell radio equipment, Wi-Fi routers, and other communication devices within the existing street light fixture structure. The equipment is nested inside the fixture housing, utilizing the existing structural envelope to accommodate multiple technological components without requiring separate external installations on the pole.
Solution Approach 2:
The street light fixture is designed to serve multiple functions simultaneously: providing illumination, housing small cell radio equipment for cellular service, accommodating Wi-Fi routers for wireless internet, and supporting surveillance cameras. This multi-functional integration allows a single structure to deliver diverse technological services.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple systems are added ad hoc to existing street lights, then technological upgrades are implemented, but aesthetic appearance and system integration deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple technological components including small cell radio equipment, Wi-Fi routers, and surveillance cameras are nested within the existing street light fixture housing. This nesting approach maintains a clean, unified appearance while accommodating diverse technological functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges multiple previously separate systems (illumination, cellular service, Wi-Fi, surveillance) into a single integrated street light fixture assembly. This consolidation creates a unified aesthetic appearance while delivering comprehensive technological functionality.
3Adaptability or versatility
If entire street light systems are replaced with smart poles, then integrated functionality is achieved, but cost and installation time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the upgrade process by allowing individual street light fixtures to be upgraded independently rather than requiring replacement of entire pole-and-fixture assemblies. Each fixture can be modified separately to incorporate new technological components while retaining the existing pole infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The existing street light fixtures are prepared for upgrade by installing mounting structures and power distribution components during initial LED conversions. This preliminary preparation enables subsequent integration of small cell equipment and other technologies without requiring complete system replacement.
4Adaptability or versatility
If ad hoc modifications are made to existing street lights, then technological functionality is added, but interference between systems increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dedicated separation zones within the fixture for different technological components. Small cell radio equipment is positioned with appropriate spacing from Wi-Fi routers and surveillance cameras, with individual mounting locations and power distribution pathways designed to minimize electromagnetic interference and signal conflicts between systems.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a smart communications node networked and adapted for use with existing, or new, street lights. In particular, the present invention generally relates to a mobile communications network and, in particular one utilizing small cell technology mounted onto street/utility poles through which a cellular signal and/or Wi-Fi communications signals may be seamlessly maintained for voice or data exchanges, coupled with smart city computer applications utilizing the small cell technology or any other wireless or wireline connection and allowing for seamless communications to a variety of destination point (Internet access, cellular phone calls, surveillance, city monitoring center, smart vehicle guidance systems, sensors or various kinds, etc.) via a managed switch at the smart network's location.