AU2021106913A4 - A lighting tower remote control system and methods of use thereof - Google Patents

Abstract

(Figure 3) The present invention provides a system and method of remotely controlling a lighting tower, especially a fleet of lighting towers. In one form, there is provided a remotely controlled lighting tower including: an engine; an alternator connected to the engine; a light emitting diode ("LED") lighting unit electronically connected to the alternator; a manoeuvrable mast having one or more actuators for mounting and moving the LED lighting unit; an onboard controller operatively connected to the engine, the alternator, the LED lighting unit and the one or more actuators; and a remote controller operatively associated with the onboard controller of the lighting tower, said controller configured to receive and monitor information from, and selectively control operation of, at least any one of the engine, the alternator, the LED lighting unit and the one or more actuators of the tower via the onboard controller. 3/4 (N 04 CD I CCD I CD CD) < CD0 CD CD C * IN L - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Description

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L - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - A LIGHTING TOWER REMOTE CONTROL SYSTEM AND METHODS OF USE THEREOF TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to a remotely controlled lighting tower and a system and method for remotely controlling a lighting tower, particularly a fleet of lighting towers.

BACKGROUND

[0002] Lighting towers are a type of portable plant equipment used across a range of industries to provide temporary illumination.

[0003] Typically, a lighting tower includes a base having a power source, a lighting unit and a mast mounted to the base for moving and positioning the lighting unit.

[0004] Lighting towers are commonly used in remote and rugged locations, in unfavourable environments and/or under harsh weather conditions, such as, e.g., on mining sites. Due to the nature of their often extreme and remote use, it is important that the towers are capable of providing reliable and uninterrupted illumination.

[0005] Accordingly, problems with such lighting towers and their use arise when they fail on a remote mine or work site. Such failures usually result in a halt in operations in an immediate vicinity of the failed lighting tower due to the risks associated with working in a poorly lit area. Such halts overtime can severely disrupt operations, typically at significant cost.

[0006] Current best practice is to routinely inspect lighting towers on site and implement corrective maintenance when and where failures are detected. While this practice may assist in early identification of lighting tower failures, it is neither pre-emptive nor a time- or cost-effective approach since it necessitates having a technician onsite or on standby at further cost.

[0007] Further problems arise when a lighting tower or towers needs adjustment between shift or mid-shift. For example, a work area may move location thereby requiring the lighting tower or towers be adjusted to provide sufficient illumination to the moved work area.

[0008] Current practice is to have an onsite or on standby technician individually adjust each lighting tower when and as needed. However, this practice is again neither time- nor cost effective, since it necessitates having a technician onsite or on standby at further cost

[0009] It will be clearly understood that, if a prior art publication is referred to herein, this reference does not constitute an admission that the publication forms part of the common general knowledge in the art in Australia or in any other country.

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

[0010] Embodiments of the present invention provide a remotely controlled lighting tower as well as a system and methods of use thereof for remotely controlling operation of at least one lighting tower, which may at least partially address one or more of the problems or deficiencies mentioned above or which may provide the public with a useful or commercial choice.

[0011] According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a remotely controlled lighting tower including: an engine; an alternator connected to the engine; a light emitting diode ("LED") lighting unit electronically connected to the alternator; a manoeuvrable mast having one or more actuators for mounting and moving the LED lighting unit; an onboard controller operatively connected to the engine, the alternator, the LED lighting unit and the one or more actuators; and a remote controller in communication with the onboard controller of the lighting tower, said controller configured to receive and monitor data from, and selectively control operation of, at least any one of the engine, the alternator, the LED lighting unit and the one or more actuators of the tower via the onboard controller.

[0012] According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a remote control system for selectively controlling operation of lighting towers, said system including: a plurality of lighting towers, each having an engine, an actuator, an LED lighting unit electronically connected to the alternator, a manoeuvrable mast having one or more actuators, and an onboard controller operatively connected to at least the engine, the alternator, the LED lighting unit and the one or more actuators; and a remote controller in communication with the onboard controller of each of the plurality of lighting towers, said remote controller configured to receiving and monitor data from, and selectively control operation of, at least any one of the engine, the alternator, the LED lighting unit and the one or more actuators of each of the plurality of lighting towers.

[0013] Advantageously, the system of the present invention enables a user to remotely control a fleet of lighting towers in real time without the associated costs and time required to travel onsite to a remote or isolated location. Further, embodiments of the system provide predictive maintenance enabling services to be scheduled with minimal disruption to a work site where the lighting tower is deployed and enabling replacement parts to be ordered in advance of the service.

[0014] As indicated above, the system of the present invention is primarily for remotely controlling lighting towers. It will therefore be convenient to describe the system and methods with reference to this example application. However, a person skilled in the art will appreciate that the system is capable of broader applications to other types of plant equipment that operate in extreme and remote conditions.

[0015] The lighting tower may be of any suitable size, shape and construction and may be formed from durable material or materials, such as, e.g., metal and plastic material or materials.

[0016] Generally, the lighting tower may include a chassis for housing or supporting at least the engine, the alternator, the manoeuvrable mast and the lighting unit mounted to the mast.

[0017] The chassis may include a wheeled chassis, a track mounted chassis or may include a sled-mount chassis.

[0018] If wheeled, the chassis may further include one or more stabilising legs for stabilising the chassis relative to a support surface.

[0019] If tracked, the track assemblies may include steel or rubber type track assemblies.

[0020] In some embodiments, the chassis may be a trailer configured to be towed by a vehicle. In such embodiments, the trailer may be a single or dual-axle trailer.

[0021] The engine, the alternator, the mast and the onboard controller may be mounted to the chassis.

[0022] The engine may include any suitable engine capable of powering the alternator. Typically, the engine may be a diesel engine, suitably a small block engine. For example, the engine may include a 1-, 2-, 3- or 4-cylinder engine. Preferably, the engine may include a Kubota Z482-E or a Kubota 1703. The engine may have a 5 to 400 hp output.

[0023] The alternator may include any suitable alternator for electrically powering at least the lighting unit. Typically, the alternator may provide an output current of approximately 200A to 500A. The alternator may have a voltage output of between about 12V and about 24V, preferably 24V.

[0024] The engine and the alternator may be connected in any suitable way known in the art. For example, in some embodiments, the engine and the alternator may be belt-coupled. Conversely, in other embodiments, the engine and the alternator may be mechanically coupled. Specifically, the alternator may have a shaft that is directly connected to a shaft of the engine by a common, axially aligned shaft.

[0025] The LED lighting unit may include at least one light assembly having a plurality of LED elements. The plurality of LED elements may be arranged in a least one two dimensional array. At least a portion of the LED elements may have individual optical elements. The optical elements may include reflectors and/or lenses. The individual optical elements may have different characteristics for one or more of the LED elements relative to the other LED elements.

[0026] Preferably, the lighting unit may include a plurality of arrays. The arrays may be configured to be angled relative to at least some of the other arrays. In some embodiments, the lighting unit may include two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29 or 30 arrays.

[0027] In some embodiments, the lighting unit may be pivot coupled to the mast such that the lighting unit is pivotable relative to the mast.

[0028] The lighting unit may be pivotable about any suitable range of motion. For example, the lighting unit may be pivotable about 45, about 90, about 135, about 1800 or about 225, preferably about 180.

[0029] Movement of the lighting unit relative to the mast may be driven by one or more actuators. Any suitable type of actuator may be used.

[0030] Generally, the one or more actuators may include one or more linear actuators each capable of moving between an extended position and a retracted position for driving movement of the lighting unit relative to the mast.

[0031] The one or more linear actuators may include any one of a pneumatic ram, a hydraulic ram or a rigid chain actuator, preferably a hydraulic ram.

[0032] In some embodiments, each lighting tower may further include at least one capacitor electrically connected in parallel to the LED lighting unit to reduce voltage spikes from the alternator. Suitably, the lighting unit includes the at least one capacitor electrically connected in parallel to the alternator. Preferably, the at least one capacitor includes a plurality of capacitors connected in parallel.

[0033] Preferably, the lighting unit has between about 1kW to about 10kW of LED lights across four to 18 -24V LED light assemblies connected in parallel.

[0034] As indicated, the lighting unit is mounted atop a manoeuvrable mast mounted to the chassis of the lighting tower. The manoeuvrable mast may be configured to assist in moving and positioning the lighting unit relative to the chassis.

[0035] The manoeuvrable mast may be of unitary construction or may be formed from two or more mast segments joined together, preferably the latter.

[0036] The mast may preferably be pivotable relative to the chassis. The mast may be pivotable relative to the chassis between a raised operable position and a lowered stowage position.

[0037] Further, the manoeuvrable mast may preferably be height adjustable.

[0038] In some embodiments, the mast may be height adjustable by way of a telescopic arrangement. For example, the mast may include two or more telescopic mast segments configured to be slidable relative to one another between retracted and extended positions.

[0039] In other embodiments, the mast may be height adjustable by way of a sliding arrangement. For example, the mast may include two or more mast segments configured to be slidable relative to one another between retracted and extended positions.

[0040] In further embodiments, the mast may be height adjustable by way of a folding arrangement. For example, the mast may include two or more mast segments configured to be pivotable relative to one another between folded and extended positions.

[0041] In yet further embodiments, the mast may include a combination of any one of telescopic, sliding and folding arrangements.

[0042] The mast may be moveable between the operable and stowage positions by way of one or more actuators. Likewise, the mast segments may be moveable relative to each other between the retracted or folded position and the extended position by way of one or more actuators. Again, any suitable type of actuator may be used.

[0043] Generally, the one or more actuators may include one or more linear actuators each capable of moving between an extended position and a retracted position for driving movement of the mast relative to the chassis and the mast segments relative to each other.

[0044] The one or more linear actuators may include any one of a pneumatic ram, a hydraulic ram or a rigid chain actuator, preferably a hydraulic ram.

[0045] The mast may preferably be rotatably coupled to the chassis such that the mast (and the lighting unit) may be rotatable relative to the chassis. The mast may be rotatably coupled in any suitable way known in the art.

[0046] The mast may be rotatably relative to the chassis over a range of about 90, about 135, about 180, about 225°, about 2700, about 3150 or about 3600, preferably about 3400.

[0047] Typically, the mast may be rotatably mounted to the chassis by a turntable bearing.

[0048] Again, the mast may include one or more actuators for rotating the mast relative to the chassis. Any suitably type of actuator may be used. The actuator may be manually actuated or by using a drive system, for example.

[0049] If manually actuated, the actuator may include an operable handle or crank associated with one or more gears or cog wheels operatively associated with a lower end of the mast and the chassis. The one or more gears or cog wheels may be configured to mesh with one another when the handle or crank is turned and transmit torque to the mast to thereby rotate the mast relative to the chassis.

[0050] Preferably, the actuator may be actuated by a drive system.

[0051] In some embodiments, the drive system may include a drive motor, such as, e.g., an electric motor, a hydraulic motor or a combustion engine operatively associated with the mast or the chassis for rotating the mast relative to the chassis.

[0052] In other embodiments, the one or more actuators may again include one or more linear actuators. For example, at least one linear actuator may extend between the mast and the chassis. The linear actuator may be of any suitable form as previously described. Reciprocating movement of the linear actuator between extended and retracted positions may impart rotational movement to mast for rotating the mast relative to the chassis.

[0053] As indicated, each lighting tower includes an onboard controller for controlling operation of the engine, the lighting unit, the one or more actuators and other components of the lighting tower.

[0054] For example, the onboard controller may turn on and off the engine and adjust a running speed of the engine.

[0055] Likewise, the onboard controller may turn and off the lighting unit and/or adjust a number of light assemblies/arrays being used.

[0056] Yet further, the onboard controller may control operation of the one or more actuators to move the manoeuvrable mast and the associated said lighting unit relative to the mast.

[0057] The controller may preferably be a microcomputer, including one or more processors and a memory. The processor may include multiple inputs and outputs coupled to components of the lighting tower.

[0058] For example, the controller may be operatively associated with the engine, the alternator, the lighting unit, and the one or more actuators for receiving data therefrom.

[0059] The data received may include operational data indicative of an operational status of the engine, the alternator, the lighting unit and/or the one or more actuators.

[0060] For example, the controller may receive data from the engine indicating an operational status (i.e., on/off), an engine running speed (i.e., rpm), an engine run time, oil pressure, oil level, oil temperature and water/coolant temperature.

[0061] Likewise, the controller may receive data from the alternator indicative of output voltage.

[0062] Further, the controller may receive data from the lighting unit indicative of operational status (i.e., on/off), lighting assemblies/arrays in use, and run time.

[0063] Yet further, the data received may include positional data indicative of a position of the mast and the lighting unit relative to the chassis. In this regard, the positional data may include data from the one or more actuators indicative of whether the actuator is in an extended or retracted position. Based on the data received, the controller may determine a position of the mast and/or the lighting unit relative to the chassis.

[0064] The controller may also be in communication with one or more sensors or gauges operatively associated with the engine, the alternator, the lighting unit, the one or more actuators and/or a fuel tank associated with the engine.

[0065] Any suitable types of sensors or gauges as known in the art may be associated with the various lighting tower components to provide the above data.

[0066] For example, the engine sensors may include a tachometer for measuring engine running speed, one or more temperature gauges for measuring oil temperature and water/coolant temperature, one or more oil level gauges for measuring oil levels, and/or one or more electric oil pressure gauges for measuring oil pressure.

[0067] For example, the one or more sensors or gauges may include one or more volt/amp gauges for measuring voltage output of the alternator.

[0068] Further, the controller may be in communication with one or more sensors associated with the fuel tank for determining a fuel level of the tank, i.e., % of capacity, litres, gallons and the like. Based on periodic measurements received from the sensor, the controller may determine a fuel consumption rate.

[0069] In some embodiments, each lighting tower may include more than one onboard controller. For example, each lighting towner may include a plurality of controllers. Each of the plurality of controllers may be operatively associated with a component of the lighting tower for controlling that component.

[0070] In some such embodiments, the remote controller may be operatively associated with each of the plurality of controllers.

[0071] In other such embodiments, the plurality of controller may include a single master onboard controller with a remainder of the plurality of controllers being slave controllers. Insuch embodiments, the master onboard controller may receive and collate data from the slave controllers and the remote controller may receive the collated data from the master onboard controller. Likewise, responsive to receiving commands from the remote controller, the master onboard controller may issue commands to a selected slave controller.

[0072] The lighting tower may preferably include at least one modem configured to be in communication with the onboard controller and the remote controller for the transmission of the data between the onboard controller and the remote controller.

[0073] The at least one modem may be in communication with the remote controller either directly or indirectly via at least one remotely accessible server. In some embodiments, the at least one modem may be a cellular modem. In other embodiments, the at least one modem may be a radio modem.

[0074] The controller may preferably be in communication with the remote controller over a communications network, preferably a wireless communications network. The network may include, among others, the internet, LANs, Wi-Fi (WLAN) communication, WANs, GPRS network, a mobile communications network, a satellite communications network, a radio network, an RF communication network, an infrared communication network, BluetoothTM or the like, and may include wireless communications links.

[0075] The at least one remotely accessible server may be any appropriate server computer, distributed server computer, cloud-based server computer, server computer cluster or the like. The server may typically include one or more processors and one or more memory units containing executable instructions/software to be executed by the one or more processors.

[0076] The server may generally be in communication with the lighting tower or towers and may be configured to transmit communications between the tower or towers and the remote controller.

[0077] The communications between the onboard controller and the remote controller, optionally via the remotely accessible server, may include the operational and positional data.

[0078] The operational data may include information received from the engine, the alternator and/or the lighting unit of a selected lighting tower as previously described.

[0079] The positional data may further include data indicative of a position of the lighting unit relative to the chassis of the selected lighting tower as previously described. This positional data may be derived from the one or more actuators operatively associated with the manoeuvrable mast of the selected lighting tower.

[0080] In some embodiments, the lighting tower may further include an onboard global navigational satellite system ("GNSS"). In such embodiments, the positional data may further include map data indicative of a position of the lighting tower relative to a work site or map.

[0081] The remote controller may include one or more keys, buttons and/or switches for a user to control operation of a selected lighting tower or a selected group of lighting towers.

[0082] The remote controller may preferably include at least one display. The at least one display may display operational data, positional data and/or map data transmitted by the selected lighting tower or selected group of lighting towers.

[0083] The display may be of any suitable form. For example, the display may be a liquid crystal display ("LCD"), a plasma display or an LED display. In some embodiments, the remote controller may include a touch screen enabling a user to interact with the remote controller.

[0084] The display of the remote controller may display data from the selected lighting tower or selected group of lighting towers, preferably in real-time. The display may also display satellite image data or map data annotated with a location of the selected lighting tower or group of lighting towers.

[0085] In some embodiments, the remote controller may include a communications module for communication with the selected lighting tower, group of lighting towers and/or the remotely accessible server. The communications module may be in the form of a wireless communications module, such as, e.g., a wireless network interface controller, such that the controller may wirelessly connect to the lighting tower, towers or the remotely accessible server via a wireless communications network (e.g., Wi-Fi (WLAN) communication, Satellite communication, RF communication, infrared communication, or Bluetooth T M).

[0086] In some embodiments, the remote controller may include a microcomputer, including one or more processors and a memory.

[0087] In other embodiments, the remote controller may be in the form of a computing device, such as, e.g., a desktop or laptop. In such embodiments, the system may further include software configured to run on the computing device and/or the remotely accessible server. The software may preferably be interactive to allow a user to interact and control a selected lighting tower or selected group of lighting towers.

[0088] In yet other embodiments, the remote controller may be in the form of a mobile computing device, such as, e.g., a smart phone, a tablet or smart watch. In such embodiments, the remote controller or system may again further include software in the form of an application (i.e., an app) configured to be run on the mobile computing device and allow a user to interact and control operation of a selected lighting tower or selected group of lighting towers.

[0089] Communications received and transmitted between the lighting tower(s), the remote controller and/or the remotely accessible server may be carried via a private network connection established between the lighting tower(s) and the remote controller, the lighting tower(s) and the remotely accessible server and/or the remotely accessible server and the remote controller.

[0090] For example, in some embodiments, the private network connection may be a secure communication session across an encrypted communication channel such as, e.g., Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure (HTTPS), Transport Layer Security / Secure Sockets Layer (TLS/SSL) or some other secure channel.

[0091] In some preferred embodiments, the private network connection may be a VPN connection established using an encrypted layered tunnelling protocol and authentication methods, including identifiers, passwords and/or certificates.

[0092] In some embodiments, the lighting tower may further include a plurality of photovoltaic cells mounted on the chassis for producing electrical energy from the sun. The photovoltaic cells may be operatively associated with an energy storage system for receiving, regulating and storing electrical energy supplied from the cells.

[0093] The plurality of photovoltaic cells may be provided in one or more photovoltaic modules mounted on an upper surface of the chassis of the lighting tower, preferably pivotally mounted via a bracket or clamp mounting system so that the modules may track a position of the sun and thereby maximise sunlight exposure of the photovoltaic cells.

[0094] The energy storage system may include one or more batteries connected to the plurality of photovoltaic cells and their associated inverter via a rectifier and/or other circuitry, including a regulating circuit. The rectifier circuit may convert alternating current generated by the inverter to a direct current. The regulator circuit may ensure correct charging of the one or more batteries.

[0095] In such embodiments, each module may be operatively associated with one or more actuators for pivoting the photovoltaic module relative to the chassis as it tracks the sun. Again, any suitable type of actuator may be used as previously described.

[0096] Generally, the one or more actuators may include one or more linear actuators each capable of moving between an extended position and a retracted position for driving pivoting movement of photovoltaic module relative to the chassis.

[0097] The one or more linear actuators may include any one of a pneumatic ram, a hydraulic ram or a rigid chain actuator, preferably a hydraulic ram.

[0098] In such embodiments, the onboard controller may control operation of the one or more actuators for controlling movement of the photovoltaic modules relative to the chassis.

[0099] Further, the onboard controller may receive energy storage data from the energy storage system indicative of voltage input into the rectifier circuit and the one or more batteries. The energy storage data may be derived from one or more voltmeters operatively associated with the energy storage system.

[00100] In some embodiments, the remote controller and/or the remotely accessible server may monitor data received from a selected lighting tower or selected group of lighting towers and generate an alert if the operational data received is indicative that the selected lighting tower or selected group of lighting towers are operating abnormally, failing or near failing.

[00101] In some such embodiments, the monitoring may include collecting data from each said lighting tower indicative of ordinary operation and forming a database of ordinary operation data for each lighting tower. In such embodiments, the remote controller and/or the remotely accessible server may compare data received against the database of ordinary operation data to determine whether the data received is abnormal and indicative that the selected lighting tower is failing or near failing.

[00102] In other such embodiments, the monitoring may include comparing data received against pre-set value ranges entered for various components of a lighting tower. In such embodiments, the remote controller and/or the remotely accessible server may determine that data received is abnormal if it falls outside the pre-set value range for the respective component of the lighting tower.

[00103] For example, the remote controller may generate an alert if data received from the engine, the alternator, the lighting unit and/or the one or more actuators of a selected lighting tower or group of lighting towers are absent or outside of a pre-set value range.

[00104] The alert may be a visual alert, an audible alert, a text message, an email, an error report or the like. The alert may preferably indicate a specific failing lighting tower and a specific failing component or part thereof.

[00105] Advantageously, predictive or pre-emptive maintenance may ensure lighting towers are timely serviced as and when needed. Further, the predictive or pre-emptive maintenance may ensure an attending technician has sufficient time to order any required replacement parts or components ahead of the service thereby provide more efficient and cost-effective service.

[00106] As indicated, in some embodiments the chassis may be wheeled or tracked. In such embodiments, the wheel or tracks may be part of a propulsion system for propelling the lighting tower along a support surface.

[00107] If tracked, the lighting tower may include a pair of track assemblies extending along or partly beneath opposed sides of the chassis. The track assemblies may be differentially operated to guide or steer the lighting tower.

[00108] If wheeled, the lighting tower may include three or more wheel assemblies mounted to an underside of the chassis, preferably at least two opposed pairs of wheel assemblies mounted beneath opposed ends of the chassis. The pairs of wheel assemblies may function to steer or guide the lighting tower, e.g., by differential steering.

[00109] The propulsion system may further include at least one drive motor to drive propulsion of the lighting tower. In preferred embodiments, a drive motor may be associated with each track or wheel and may be used to selectively drive the track or wheel in a forward or reverse direction.

[00110] In some embodiments, the at least one drive motor may also be used to brake momentum of the lighting tower.

[00111] The at least one drive motor may be of any suitable size, shape and form and may be located on the lighting tower in any suitable location to be operatively coupled to the track or wheel.

[00112] The at least one drive motor may be an electric motor, a hydraulic motor or a combustion engine, preferably a hydraulic motor.

[00113] As indicated, the lighting tower includes at least one GNSS navigational system for determining a position of the lighting tower relative to a site. In some embodiments, the GNSS navigational system may be used to guide the lighting tower, preferably relative to a series of waypoints.

[00114] The lighting tower may preferably be guided in a fully autonomous manner when at least a plurality of waypoints have been received and onboarded by the on board controller.

[00115] As used herein, the term "waypoint" may include one or more markings on a site plan, including a starting point, a stopping point, an intermediate point or a point in which a course of direction is changed. Generally, the waypoints may be computationally generated to provide a precise route or line of travel about a site. The waypoints may be spaced at varying intervals from one another to provide a route or line of best fit.

[00116] The GNSS of the lighting towner may include at least one GNSS antenna and at least one modem. The GNSS antenna may be configured to receive radio waves from artificial satellites for determining positional coordinates of the lighting tower relative to a site, preferably GNSS satellites, more preferably at least four GNSS satellites. The GNSS antenna may preferably be a Global Positioning System ("GPS") antenna.

[00117] The lighting tower may further include a GNSS receiver associated with the at least one GNSS antenna for receiving output from the antenna, preferably a GPS receiver.

[00118] In such embodiments, the onboard controller may control operation of the propulsion system, including the at least one drive motor, for controlling movement of the lighting tower about the site.

[00119] In preferred such embodiments, when the onboard controller is onboarded with navigational data or waypoint data, the on board controller may control movement of the lighting tower about the work site, preferably in a fully autonomous manner.

[00120] A user may onboard the navigational or waypoint data to a selected lighting tower or group of lighting towers via the remote controller.

[00121] According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of remotely controlling operation of a lighting tower, said method including: receiving and monitoring data via an onboard controller from any one of an engine, an alternator connected to the engine, an LED lighting unit electronically connected to the alternator and one or more actuators associated with a manoeuvrable mast of the lighting tower; and selectively controlling operation of any one of the engine, the alternator, the LED lighting unit and the one or more actuators with a remote controller in communication with the onboard controller.

[00122] According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of remotely controlling a plurality of lighting towers, said method including: receiving and monitoring data from any one of an engine, an alternator connected to the engine, an LED lighting unit electronically connected to the alternator and one or more actuators associated with a manoeuvrable mast via an onboard controller of each of the plurality of lighting towers; and selectively controlling operation of any one of the engine, the alternator, the LED lighting unit and the one or more actuators with a remote controller in communication with the onboard controller of each of the plurality of lighting towers.

[00123] The methods of the third and fourth aspects may include one or more features or characteristics of the lighting tower and system as hereinbefore described.

[00124] The data may include operational data indicative of an operational status of the lighting tower or the plurality of lighting towers.

[00125] The data may further include positional data indicative of a position of the lighting unit relative to the chassis of the lighting tower or each of the plurality of lighting towers.

[00126] The receiving and monitoring may include the transmission of the data from the onboard controller associated with a selected lighting tower or selected group of lighting towers to the remote controller, preferably over a wireless communications network, more preferably via the at least one remotely accessible server.

[00127] The monitoring may include comparing the data received against a database of operational data to determine whether data received from a selected lighting tower or selected group of lighting towers is abnormal. Abnormal data may be indicative that the selected lighting tower or a component thereof is failing or near failing.

[00128] The selectively controlling operation may include turning on of off the engine, the alternator, and/or the LED lighting unit of a selected lighting tower or group of lighting towers.

[00129] The selectively controlling operation may include altering a running speed or intensity of the engine, the lighting unit or one or more assemblies or arrays of the lighting unit, respectively.

[00130] The selectively controlling operation may include operating the one or more actuators to move a position of the mast and the associated lighting unit relative to the chassis of a selected lighting tower or group of lighting towers.

[00131] Any of the features described herein can be combined in any combination with any one or more of the other features described herein within the scope of the invention.

[00132] The reference to any prior art in this specification is not and should not be taken as an acknowledgement or any form of suggestion that the prior art forms part of the common general knowledge.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[00133] Preferred features, embodiments and variations of the invention may be discerned from the following Detailed Description which provides sufficient information for those skilled in the art to perform the invention. The Detailed Description is not to be regarded as limiting the scope of the preceding Summary of Invention in any way. The Detailed Description will make reference to a number of drawings as follows:

[00134] Figures 1A and 1B are side views of a remotely controlled lighting tower according to an embodiment of the present invention with a manoeuvrable mast in lowered and raised positions, respectively;

[00135] Figure 2 is an upper perspective view of a remotely controlled lighting tower according to another embodiment of the present invention;

[00136] Figure 3 is a schematic showing a remote control system for remotely controlling lighting towers according to an embodiment of the present invention; and

[00137] Figure 4 is a flowchart showing steps in a method of remotely controlling a plurality of lighting towers according to an embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[00138] Figures 1A and 1B show a first embodiment of a remotely controlled lighting tower (100).

[00139] Referring to Figure 1A, the lighting tower (100) includes a chassis (110) in the form of a single-axle trailer (112), a light emitting diode ("LED") lighting unit (120) and a manoeuvrable mast (130) mounted to the chassis (110) for mounting and moving the LED lighting unit (120) relative to the chassis (110).

[00140] The chassis (110) houses an engine and alternator connected to the engine.

[00141] The chassis (110) includes stabilising legs (114) for stabilising the chassis (110) relative to a support surface.

[00142] The lighting unit (120) is electronically connected to the alternator.

[00143] The engine is a diesel Kubota Z482-E.

[00144] The alternator is a brushless alternator with a voltage output of approximately 24V.

[00145] The engine and the alternator are mechanically coupled a common, axially aligned shaft.

[00146] The LED lighting unit (120) includes six 24V LED light assemblies (122) each having a plurality of LED elements. The plurality of LED elements are arranged a two dimensional array. Each assembly (122) is individually mounted to the lighting unit (120) and able to be angled independently of the other assemblies (122).

[00147] The lighting unit (120) further includes a plurality of capacitors connected in parallel to the alternator to reduce voltage spikes.

[00148] Referring to both Figures 1A and 1B, the lighting unit (120) is mounted atop the manoeuvrable mast (130) mounted to the chassis (110) of the lighting tower (100). The manoeuvrable mast (130) is configured to assist in moving and positioning the lighting unit (120) relative to the chassis (110).

[00149] The manoeuvrable mast (130) formed from a plurality of telescopic mast segments (132) joined together and configured to be slidable relative to one another between a retracted position as shown in Figure 1A and an extended position as shown in Figure 1B.

[00150] In the extended position, the mast (130) has a height of about 8.1m.

[00151] Referring to Figure 1B, the mast segments (132) are moveable relative to each other by way of one or more linear actuators (140) each in the form of a hydraulic ram. Each linear actuator (140) is capable of moving between an extended position and a retracted position for driving movement of the mast segments (132) relative to each other.

[00152] The mast (130) is further rotatably coupled to the chassis (110) about a range of about 340.

[00153] The lighting tower (100) further includes an onboard controller (not visible) for controlling operation of the engine, the lighting unit (120), the one or more linear actuators (140) and other components of the lighting tower (100).

[00154] For example, the onboard controller can turn on and off the engine and adjust a running speed of the engine.

[00155] Likewise, the onboard controller can turn and off the lighting unit (120) and/or adjust a number of light assemblies (122) being used.

[00156] Yet further, the onboard controller can control operation of the one or more linear actuators (140) to move the mast (130) and the associated lighting unit (120) relative to the chassis (110).

[00157] The onboard controller is a microcomputer, including one or more processors and a memory. The processors include multiple inputs and outputs coupled to components of the lighting tower (100).

[00158] For example, the controller is operatively associated with the engine, the alternator, the lighting unit (120), and the one or more actuators (140) for receiving data therefrom.

[00159] The data received includes operational data indicative of an operational status of the engine, the alternator, the lighting unit (120) and/or the one or more actuators (140).

[00160] Further, the data received includes positional data indicative of a position of the mast (130) and the lighting unit (120) relative to the chassis (110). In this regard, the positional data includes data from the one or more actuators (140) indicative of whether the actuator (140) is in an extended or retracted position. Based on the data received, the controller can determine a position of the mast (130) and/or the lighting unit (120) relative to the chassis (110).

[00161] The controller is in communication with one or more sensors or gauges operatively associated with the engine, the alternator, the lighting unit (120), the one or more actuators (140) and/or a fuel tank associated with the engine for receiving data from them.

[00162] The lighting tower (100) further includes at least one modem configured to be in communication with the onboard controller and the remote controller (not shown) for the transmission of the data between the onboard controller and the remote controller and commands from the remote controller to the onboard controller.

[00163] Figure 2 shows a second embodiment of a remotely controlled lighting tower (100). For convenience, features that are similar or correspond to features of the first embodiment will be referenced with the same reference numerals.

[00164] The lighting tower (100) includes a track-mounted chassis (110), an LED lighting unit (120) and a manoeuvrable mast (130) mounted to the chassis (110) and shown in a folded position for mounting and moving the LED lighting unit (120) relative to the chassis (110).

[00165] The chassis (110) houses an engine and alternator connected to the engine.

[00166] The chassis (110) includes stabilising legs (114) for stabilising the chassis (110) relative to a support surface.

[00167] The lighting unit (120) is electronically connected to the alternator.

[00168] The engine is a diesel combustion engine.

[00169] The alternator is a brushless alternator with a voltage output of approximately 24V.

[00170] The engine and the alternator are mechanically coupled a common, axially aligned shaft.

[00171] The LED lighting unit (120) includes eight 24V LED light assemblies (122) each having a plurality of LED elements. The plurality of LED elements are arranged a two dimensional array. Each assembly (122) is individually mounted to the lighting unit (120) and able to be angled independently of the other assemblies (122).

[00172] The lighting unit (120) further includes a plurality of capacitors connected in parallel to the alternator to reduce voltage spikes.

[00173] In this embodiment, the lighting tower (100) further includes a propulsion system for propelling the lighting tower (100) along a support surface.

[00174] The propulsion system includes a pair of track assemblies (280) atop of which the chassis (110) is mounted. Each track assembly (180) is mounted to an underside of the chassis

(110) along each side. The track assemblies (280) can be differentially operated to guide or steer the lighting tower (100).

[00175] The propulsion system further includes a hydraulic motor operatively associated with each track assembly (280) and configured to selectively drive the track in a forward or reverse direction. The onboard controller controls operation of each hydraulic motor for controlling movement of the lighting tower (100).

[00176] Further, in this embodiment the lighting tower (100) includes a GNSS navigational system for determining a position of the lighting tower (100) relative to a site. The GNSS navigational system is used to guide the lighting tower relative to a series of waypoints.

[00177] The lighting tower (100) is configured to be guided in a fully autonomous manner when a plurality of waypoints have been received and onboarded by the on board controller.

[00178] The waypoints may include one or more markings on a site, including a starting point, a stopping point, an intermediate point or a point in which a course of direction is changed. Generally, the waypoints are computationally generated to provide a precise route or line of travel about a site. The waypoints can be spaced at varying intervals from one another to provide a route or line of best fit.

[00179] In this embodiment, a user may onboard navigational or waypoint data to the lighting tower (100) via a remote controller. The onboard controller can then control movement of the lighting tower (100) about the work site based on its position relative to the work site as determined by the GNSS navigational system and the onboarded navigational or waypoint data.

[00180] Figure 3 shows a remote control system (200) for remotely controlling lighting towers (100).

[00181] The system (200) includes a plurality of the lighting towers (100) as previously described, a remotely accessible server (210) in communication with the onboard controller of each of the lighting towers (100) and a remote controller (220) in the form of a computing device in communication with the remotely accessible server (210).

[00182] The remote controller (220) is configured to receive and monitor data from, and selectively control operation of any one of the engine, the alternator, the lighting unit (120) and the one or more actuators (140) of each of the plurality of lighting towers (100).

[00183] As indicated, the remote controller (220) is in indirect communication with the onboard controller of each of the lighting towers (100) via the remotely accessible server (210) over a wireless communications network. The network may include, among others, the internet, LANs, Wi-Fi (WLAN) communication, WANs, GPRS network, a mobile communications network, a satellite communications network, a radio network, an RF communication network, an infrared communication network, Bluetooth TM or the like, and may include wireless communications links.

[00184] The remotely accessible server (210) includes any appropriate server computer, distributed server computer, cloud-based server computer, server computer cluster or the like. The server (210) includes one or more processors and one or more memory units containing executable instructions/software to be executed by the one or more processors.

[00185] As indicated, the server (210) is generally in communication with each lighting tower (100) via the modem associated with the onboard controller and is configured to transmit communications between the towers (100) and the remote controller (220).

[00186] The communications between the onboard controller and the remote controller (220) include the operational and positional data as previously described.

[00187] A display of the remote controller (220) is configured to display the data from a selected lighting tower (100) or selected group of lighting towers (100) in real-time. The display also displays satellite image data or map data annotated with a location of the selected lighting tower (100A) or group of lighting towers (1O0B).

[00188] As indicated, the remote controller (220) is in the form of a computing device and the system (200) further includes software configured to run on the computing device and/or the remotely accessible server (210). The software is interactive to allow a user to interact and control a selected lighting tower (100A) or selected group of lighting towers (1O0B).

[00189] The remote controller (220) and/or the remotely accessible server (210) are configured to monitor data received from a selected lighting tower (100A) or selected group of lighting towers (100B) and generate an alert (900) if the operational data received is indicative that a selected lighting tower (1OOA) is operating abnormally, failing or near failing.

[00190] In some embodiments, the monitoring includes comparing the data received against a database (212) of operational data to determine whether data received from a selected lighting tower (100A) is abnormal. Abnormal data may be indicative that the selected lighting tower (1OOA) or a component thereof is failing or near failing.

[00191] In other embodiments, the monitor includes comparing the data received against pre-set value ranges entered for the various components of a lighting tower (100). Abnormal data may be indicative that the selected lighting tower (1OOA) or a component there is failing or near failing.

[00192] When the remote controller (220) and/or the remotely accessible server (210) determine that the lighting tower (1OOA) is operating abnormally, a visual alert (900) is displayed by the remote controller (220) to alert a user of the abnormally operating lighting tower (1O0A).

[00193] The visual alert (900) includes an error report indicating the specific failing lighting tower (1OOA) and a specific failing component or part thereof.

[00194] A method (400) of using the system (200) as shown in Figure 3 to remotely control a plurality of lighting towers (100) is now described in detail with reference to Figure 4.

[00195] At step 410, the remote controller (220) receives and monitors operational and positional data from the onboard controller of each of the plurality of lighting towers (100) via the remotely accessible server (210).

[00196] As data is received, the remotely accessible server (210) compiles a database (212) of operational data for each lighting tower (100).

[00197] At step 420, a user is able to selectively control operation of any one of the lighting towers via the remote controller (220) to control operation of the engine, the alternator, the LED lighting unit (120) and/or the one or more actuators (140).

[00198] In further embodiments, the user is alerted to abnormal operation of a selected lighting tower (100A). Specifically, the remotely accessible server (210) and/or the remote controller (220) in real time continuously monitor the operational data received from each lighting tower (100) against the database (212).

[00199] When operational data for a selected lighting tower (100A) is received that differs from the normal operational data for the selected lighting tower (1OOA), the remotely accessible server (210) and/or the remote controller (220) displays a visual alert (900) on the remote controller (220) to alert the user of the abnormal operation of the lighting tower (1O0A). The user may then take action to further diagnose the lighting tower (1OOA).

[00200] In the present specification and claims (if any), the word 'comprising' and its derivatives including 'comprises'and 'comprise'include each of the stated integers but does not exclude the inclusion of one or more further integers.

[00201] Reference throughout this specification to 'one embodiment' or 'an embodiment' means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, the appearance of the phrases 'in one embodiment' or 'in an embodiment' in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more combinations.

[00202] In compliance with the statute, the invention has been described in language more or less specific to structural or methodical features. It is to be understood that the invention is not limited to specific features shown or described since the means herein described comprises preferred forms of putting the invention into effect. The invention is, therefore, claimed in any of its forms or modifications within the proper scope of the appended claims (if any) appropriately interpreted by those skilled in the art.

Claims (5)

1. A remote control system for selectively controlling operation of lighting towers, said system including: a plurality of lighting towers, each having an engine, an actuator, an LED lighting unit electronically connected to the alternator, a manoeuvrable mast having one or more actuators, and an onboard controller operatively connected to at least the engine, the alternator, the LED lighting unit and the one or more actuators; and a remote controller in communication with the onboard controller of each of the plurality of lighting towers, said remote controller configured to receiving and monitor data from, and selectively control operation of, at least any one of the engine, the alternator, the LED lighting unit and the one or more actuators of each of the plurality of lighting towers.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the data is received in real time.

3. The system of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the remote controller is configured to generate an alert when data received from a selected lighting tower of the plurality of lighting towers is indicative that the selected lighting tower is operating abnormally.

4. A method of remotely controlling a plurality of lighting towers, said method including: receiving and monitoring data from any one of an engine, an alternator connected to the engine, an LED lighting unit electronically connected to the alternator and one or more actuators associated with a manoeuvrable mast via an onboard controller of each of the plurality of lighting towers; and selectively controlling operation of any one of the engine, the alternator, the LED lighting unit and the one or more actuators with a remote controller in communication with the onboard controller of each of the plurality of lighting towers.

5. The method of claim 4, wherein said selectively controlling operation includes any one of turning on off the engine, the alternator and the LED lighting unit of a selected lighting tower or the plurality of lighting towers.

Date: 24 August 2021

120 100

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Figure 1A

Figure 1B