AU2021221681A1

AU2021221681A1 - Service pillar

Info

Publication number: AU2021221681A1
Application number: AU2021221681A
Authority: AU
Inventors: Simon Peter James DUGGAN; Paul Allan SAVIG
Original assignee: Regional Power Corp
Current assignee: Regional Power Corp
Priority date: 2021-08-25
Filing date: 2021-08-25
Publication date: 2023-03-16

Abstract

A service pillar (100) for connecting a consumer (10) to a service provider network (12), the service pillar (100) comprising: a housing (102); at least one terminal (132-138) disposed in the housing (110), the at least one terminal (123-138) configured to connect the consumer (10) to the service provider network (12); and a damage detection unit (150), the damage detection unit (150) including: at least one sensor (160-170) disposed in the housing (110) and configured to detect potential damage to the housing (110); and a communication device (154) wherein the damage detection unit (150) is configured to communicate, by the communication device (154), a signal and wherein the signal includes or is based on at least one output from the at least one sensor (160-170). 1/6 AV-

Description

1/6

AV- SERVICE PILLAR FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present disclosure relates to service pillars for connecting one or more consumers to a service provider network. Particular embodiments of the present disclosure relate to electrical power distribution service pillars, for connecting one or more consumers to an electrical power distribution network.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Service pillars are typically used to connect one or more consumers to an underground network of a service provider. Service pillars also provide an above-ground access point to the connection between the consumer(s) and the underground network of the service provider. For example, electrical service pillars are used to connect a consumer to an underground electrical power distribution network and provide an above ground access point to that connection.

[0003] Service pillars typically have a housing that accommodates the connection between the consumer(s) and the underground network. The housing also protects the public from this connection. This function of protection is particularly important when the service pillars are used to connect a consumer to an underground electrical power distribution network.

[0004] The housing of the service pillar has a portion that protrudes above the surface of the ground that is prone to being damaged. The housing may be damaged, for example, by vehicles hitting them and/or by construction/demolition works. It will be appreciated that the housing may be damaged in other ways.

[0005] If the housing of the service pillar is damaged, the connection between the consumer and the network of the service provider may be exposed. This is particularly dangerous when the service pillar is used to connect a consumer to an underground electrical power distribution network, as the live electrical connection(s) in the damaged service pillar may be accessible to the public. In this example, it will be appreciated that a damaged service pillar may pose a significant safety risk to the public.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0006] According to a first aspect of the invention, there is provided a housing; at least one terminal disposed in the housing, the at least one terminal configured to connect the consumer to the service provider network; and a damage detection unit, the damage detection unit including: at least one sensor disposed in the housing and configured to detect potential damage to the housing; and a communication device; wherein the damage detection unit is configured to communicate, by the communication device, a signal and wherein the signal includes or is based on at least one output from the at least one sensor.

[0007] In an embodiment, the communication device is configured to communicate the signal in response to the at least one sensor detecting potential damage to the housing.

[0008] In an embodiment, the at least one sensor comprises a light sensor configured to measure light levels within the housing; and the damage detection unit is configured to detect potential damage to the housing based on light levels in the housing measured by the light sensor.

[0009] In an embodiment, the at least one sensor comprises a humidity sensor configured to measure humidity levels within the housing; and the damage detection unit is configured to detect potential damage to the housing based on humidity levels in the housing measured by the humidity sensor.

[0010] In an embodiment, the at least one sensor comprises a temperature sensor configured to measure temperature within the housing; and the damage detection unit is configured to detect potential damage to the housing based on the temperature in the housing measured by the temperature sensor.

[0011] In an embodiment, the at least one sensor comprises an impact sensor configured to measure a magnitude of an impact force acting on the housing; and the damage detection unit is configured to detect potential damage to the housing based on the magnitude of the impact force measured by the impact sensor.

[0012] In an embodiment, the at least one sensor comprises a noise sensor configured to measure noise levels within the housing; and the damage detection unit is configured to detect potential damage to the housing based on noise levels in the housing measured by the noise sensor

[0013] In an embodiment, the communication device is a wireless communication device.

[0014] In an embodiment, the damage detection unit is located within and spaced apart from the housing.

[0015] In an embodiment, an electrical power cable is at least partially disposed within the housing and the electrical power cable supplies electrical power to the damage detection unit.

[0016] In an embodiment, wherein the damage detection unit is operatively coupled to the electrical power cable.

[0017] In an embodiment, the damage detection unit has a power delivery device operatively coupled to the electrical power cable, the power delivery device configured to supply electrical power from the electrical power cable to the damage detection unit.

[0018] In an embodiment, the power delivery device is a split core current transformer disposed around the electrical power cable.

[0019] In an embodiment, the damage detection unit has an energy storage device configured to supply electrical power to the damage detection unit.

[0020] In an embodiment, the damage detection unit is configured to provide electrical power from the electrical power cable to the energy storage device.

[0021] In an embodiment, the energy storage device comprises at least one of a capacitor and a battery.

[0022] In an embodiment, the service pillar is an electrical power distribution service pillar or a telecommunication service pillar.

[0023] According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a damage detection unit configured to be disposed in a housing of a service pillar, the damage detection unit comprising: sensor circuitry configured to detect at least one environmental variable indicative of potential damage to the housing; and a communication device, wherein the damage detection unit is configured to cause communication, by the communication device, of at least one signal, wherein the signal is based on detection by the sensory circuitry of the at least one environmental variable.

[0024] In an embodiment, the damage detection unit is configured to cause communication of the at least one signal in response to the sensor circuitry detecting potential damage to the housing.

[0025] In an embodiment, the sensor circuitry includes a light sensor configured to measure light levels within the housing; and the damage detection unit is configured to cause the communication based on light levels in the housing measured by the light sensor.

[0026] In an embodiment, the sensor circuitry includes a humidity sensor configured to measure humidity levels within the housing; and the damage detection unit is configured to cause the communication based on humidity levels in the housing measured by the humidity sensor.

[0027] In an embodiment, the sensor circuitry includes a temperature sensor configured to measure temperature within the housing; and the damage detection unit is configured to cause the communication based on the temperature in the housing measured by the temperature sensor.

[0028] In an embodiment, the sensor circuitry includes an impact sensor configured to detect an impact force acting on the housing; and the damage detection unit is configured to cause the communication based on the magnitude of the impact force measured by the impact sensor.

[0029] In an embodiment, the sensor circuitry includes a noise sensor configured to measure noise levels within the housing; and the damage detection unit is configured to cause the communication based on noise levels in the housing measured by the noise sensor.

[0030] In an embodiment, the communication device is a wireless communication device.

[0031] In an embodiment, the damage detection unit is configured to receive electrical power from an electrical power cable at least partially disposed housing.

[0032] In an embodiment, the damage detection unit is configured to be operatively coupled to the electrical power cable.

[0033] In an embodiment, the damage detection unit has a power delivery device configured to be operatively coupled to the electrical power cable, the power delivery device configured to supply electrical power from the electrical power cable to the damage detection unit.

[0034] In an embodiment, the power delivery device is a split core current transformer configured to be disposed around the electrical power cable.

[0035] In an embodiment, the damage detection unit has an energy storage device configured to supply electrical power to the damage detection unit.

[0036] In an embodiment, the energy storage device is configured to receive electrical power from the electrical power cable.

[0037] In an embodiment, the energy storage device is at least one of a capacitor and a battery.

[0038] According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of retrofitting a service pillar, the method comprising: disposing a damage detection unit according to the second aspect in an interior volume defined by a housing of the service pillar; and coupling the damage detection unit with an electrical cable within the service pillar, wherein the coupling provides a power source connection for the damage detection unit.

[0039] According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method of repairing a damaged service pillar, the method comprising: receiving a communication from the communication device of a service pillar according to the first aspect that the housing of the service pillar is potentially damaged; and replacing the damaged housing with a new housing or repairing the damaged housing.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0040] Figure 1 is a service pillar according to an embodiment of the present disclosure connecting a consumer to an underground electrical power distribution network.

[0041] Figure 2 is a schematic view of the service pillar of Figure 1.

[0042] Figure 3 is a partial schematic view of the service pillar of Figure 1 omitting the cap of the service pillar.

[0043] Figure 4 is another partial schematic view of the service pillar of Figure 1 omitting the cap of the service pillar.

[0044] Figure 5 shows the service pillar of Figure 1 omitting the cap of the service pillar.

[0045] Figure 6 is a block diagram of the damage detection unit of the service pillar of Figure 1.

[0046] Figure 7 is a flowchart of a method for upgrading an already existing service pillar to include a damage detection unit.

[0047] Figure 8 is a flowchart of a method for detecting potential damage to and repairing the service pillar of Figure 1.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

[0048] Figure 1 shows a service pillar 100 in the form of a mini pillar according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The service pillar 100 is configured to electrically connect a consumer 10 (e.g. a private residence or business premises) to an underground electrical power distribution network 12. The service pillar 100 may also be used to connect a streetlight to the underground electrical power distribution network 12.

[0049] The underground electrical power distribution network 12 has an underground main network cable 14 and an underground distribution network cable 16. The underground distribution network cable 16 electrically connects the service pillar 100 and the main network cable 14. The service pillar 100 is electrically connected to a consumer cable 18, which is connected to an electricity meter 20 of the consumer 10. The distribution network cable 16 and the consumer cable 18 enter into the service pillar 100 from underground and are electrically connected to each other inside the service pillar 100. Accordingly, the consumer 10 is electrically connected to the underground electrical power distribution network 12 via the main network cable 14, the distribution network cable 16, the service pillar 100, the consumer cable 18, and the electricity meter 20.

[0050] The service pillar 100 provides an above-ground access point to the distribution network cable 16 and the consumer cable 18. Accordingly, a skilled technician may access the distribution network cable 16 and the consumer cable 18 using the service pillar 100 in order to connect one or more consumers 10 to, or disconnect one or more consumers 10 from, the underground electrical power distribution network 12. A skilled technician may also use the service pillar 100 to conduct maintenance and/or inspections of the electrical connection between the distribution network cable 16 and the consumer cable 18.

[0051] The distribution network cable 16 includes three distribution electrical power cable cores 16a, 16b, and 16c (see Figure 2). Each distribution electrical power cable core 16a-c is electrically connected to a different phase of the electrical power distribution network 12. The distribution network cable 16 also includes a distribution neutral cable core 16d (see Figure 2).

[0052] There may be more than one consumer cable 18 depending on how many consumers the service pillar 100 is connecting to the electrical power distribution network 12. For example, if the service pillar 100 is to connect only one consumer 10 to single-phase power, there may only be one consumer cable 18. If the service pillar 100 is to connect two consumers to single-phase power, there may be two consumer cables 18, each configured to connect one of the two consumers to single-phase electrical power. If the service pillar 100 is to connect one or more consumers 10 with three-phase power, the consumer cable/s 18 will comprise three consumer electrical power cables, each configured to be electrically connected to a different phase of the electrical power distribution network 12. If the service pillar 100 is to connect one or more consumers 10 to single-phase power, each consumer cable 18 will also comprise a consumer neutral core 18d (see Figure 5). If the service pillar 100 is to connect a consumer 10 to three-phase power, the consumer cable 18 will also comprise a consumer neutral cable 18d (not shown).

[0053] As discussed above, service pillars may be damaged, which may expose (or increase the risk of exposure) of one or more of the distribution network cable 16, the consumer cable(s) 18, and the connection between the distribution network cable 16 and the consumer cable(s) 18. This may pose an electrical safety risk to the public. Further, damaged service pillars may also pose other risks and/or problems.

[0054] The service pillar 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is configured to detect potential damage to the service pillar 100 and communicate or cause the communication of a signal indicating the detected potential damage. The communication may, for example, be to a network operator of the underground electrical power distribution network 12. In response to receiving a communication from a service pillar 100 that it is potentially damaged, the network operator may dispatch a skilled technician to confirm if the service pillar 100 is damaged and repair or replace the service pillar 100 if it is damaged.

[0055] Referring to Figures 2 to 5, the service pillar 100 has a housing 110, a terminal board 130 disposed in the housing 110, and a damage detection unit 150 disposed in the housing 110.

[0056] The housing 110 includes a base 112 and a cap 114 removably coupled to the base 112. When the cap 114 is coupled to the base 112, the cap 114 and the base 112 define the housing 110 and an interior 116 within the housing 110.

[0057] The base 112 has an open top end 118 and an open bottom end 120. The cap 114 is removably coupled to the top end 118 of the base 112 and decoupling the cap 114 from the base 112 permits access to the interior 116 of the housing 110 and to the terminal board 130 and damage detection unit 150.

[0058] The base 112 is partially buried in the ground 30 such that the bottom end 120 of the base 112 is disposed under the surface of the ground 30 and the top end 118 of the base 112 is disposed above the surface of the ground 30. Distribution network cable 16 and consumer cable 18 enter into the interior 116 of the housing 110 through the open bottom end 120 of the base 112. Accordingly, distribution network cable 16 and consumer cable 18 are partially disposed within the interior 116 of the housing 110. When the cap 114 is coupled to the base 112, the interior 116 is closed or substantially closed.

[0059] The terminal board 130 has three active terminal blocks 132, 134, and 136. Each active terminal block 132, 134, and 136 is configured to be electrically connected to a different phase of the electrical power distribution network 12. The active terminal block 132 is electrically connected to distribution electrical power cable core 16a of the distribution network cable 16. The active terminal 134 block is electrically connected to distribution electrical power cable core 16b of the distribution network cable 16. The active terminal block 136 is electrically connected to distribution electrical power cable core 16c of the distribution network cable 16.

[0060] The terminal board 130 also has a neutral terminal block 138. The neutral terminal block 138 is electrically connected to the distribution neutral cable corel6d, which is electrically connected to the neutral phase of the electrical power distribution network 12. If the service pillar 100 is to connect one or more consumers 10 with single-phase power, the consumer neutral cable core 18d of each consumer cable 18 will be electrically connected to the neutral terminal block 138. If the service pillar 100 is to connect a consumer 10 with three-phase power, the consumer neutral cable core 18d of the consumer cable 18 will be electrically connected to the neutral terminal block138.

[0061] The terminal board 130 also has an earthing system 140. The earthing system 140 includes an earth rod 142 disposed in the ground 30 and an earth wire 144 electrically connecting the neutral terminal block 138 to the earth rod 142.

[0062] Figure 5 shows an example of the terminal board 130 of a service pillar 100 that is connecting two consumers to single-phase electrical power. As seen in Figure 5, there are two consumer cables 18. One consumer cable 18 is electrically connected to one phase of the electrical power distribution network 12 via active terminal block 132 and the other consumer cable 18 is electrically connected to a different phase of the electrical power distribution network via active terminal block 134. Both consumer cables 18 have a neutral consumer cable core 18d that is electrically connected to the neutral phase of the electrical power distribution network 12 via the neutral terminal block 138. Although the consumer cables 18 have been electrically connected to different phases of the electrical power distribution network 12, it will be appreciated that the consumer cables 18 could be electrically connected to the same phase of the electrical power distribution network 12 by electrically connecting both consumer cables 18 to the same active terminal block 132, 134, 136 of the terminal board 130.

[0063] Figure 6 shows a block diagram of a damage detection unit, which may be for example the damage detection unit 150. Referring to Figure 6, the damage detection unit 150 includes a sensor module 152, a communication device 154, a power delivery device 156, an energy storage device 158, and a maintenance detection module 159. In some embodiments the damage detection unit 150 is disposed on the opposite side of the terminal board 130 to the active terminal blocks 132, 134, and 136, and the neutral terminal block 138 (see Figure 3). However, it is envisaged that the damage detection unit 150 may be disposed anywhere within the interior 116 of the housing 110. In some embodiments, the component parts of the damage detection unit 150 depicted in Figure 6 are on a single carrier, for example disposed on or in a substrate that is attachable to the service pillar 100 within the housing 110.

[0064] The sensor module 152 includes one or more sensors for detecting damage or potential damage to the service pillar 100, for example damage to the housing 110. In the embodiment of Figure 6, the sensor module 152 has a light sensor 160, a temperature sensor 162, a humidity sensor 164, an impact sensor 166, a noise sensor 168, and a frangible conductor 170. The light sensor 160 is configured to measure light levels in the interior 116 of the housing 110. The temperature sensor 162 is configured to measure the temperature in the interior 116 of the housing 110. The humidity sensor 164 is configured to measure humidity levels in the interior 116 of the housing 110. The impact sensor 166 is configured to measure/estimate the magnitude of an impact force acting on the housing 110 and/or the angle of the housing 110. The noise sensor 168 is configured to monitor noise in the interior 116 of the housing 110. The frangible conductor 170 is associated with the housing 110 and is configured to stretch (e.g. due to an impact force acting on the housing 110), thereby increasing the resistivity of the frangible conductor 170, which may be used to estimate damage to the housing 110. Other embodiments of the sensor module 152 may include any one of these sensors or any combination of two or more of these sensors.

[0065] The damage detection unit 150 and one or more of its sensors may be located at a central portion of the service pillar 100. In other words, the damage detection unit 150 and one or more of its sensors may be spaced apart from the interior surface of the housing 110. In some embodiments, the damage detection unit 150 and one or more of its sensors is placed on a robust carrier. For example, the damage detection unit 150 and one or more of its sensors placed on the terminal board 130 may provide both a robust carrier and central location. This may reduce the prospects of the damage detection unit 150 becoming inoperable due to the event or events causing damage to the service pillar 100.

[0066] The damage detection unit 150 is configured to determine potential damage to the housing 110 of the service pillar 100 based one or more measurements from the sensors, for example based on one or more measurements from the light sensor 160, temperature sensor 162, humidity sensor 164, impact sensor 166, and/or noise sensor 168. In some embodiments, the determination is made by control circuitry 172. The control circuitry 172 may include a dedicated or programmed microchip, microcontroller or microprocessor. For example, the control circuitry 172 may include one or more field programmable gate arrays, an application specific integrated circuits and computer processor chips. In other embodiments, a signal generated by a sensor in the sensor module 152 may be communicated directly to a communication device 154, which may be configured to send a communication signal that includes the output sensor signal, with or without additional processing. For example the additional processing may include converting the output sensor signal into another format (e.g. converting an analog signal to a digital signal). The communication signal including the output sensor signal may be sent periodically or continuously. In some embodiments one or more of the sensors generate a signal on the occurrence of an event and the communication signal is sent responsive to the sensor generating an output sensor signal.

[0067] In some embodiments, one or more of the sensors are active only when the cap 114 of the service pillar 100 is (removably) coupled to the base 112 and are inactive when the cap 114 is removed from the base 112. In this context, an active sensor is one that causes initiation of a communication of damage or potential damage by the communication device 154 on a trigger event (e.g. detecting an sensed parameter that exceeds a threshold, such a light sensor detecting light above a threshold intensity) and an inactive sensor is one that does not cause initiation of the communication on occurrence of the trigger event. In some embodiments, the sensors are rendered inactive by another mechanism, for example responsive to a local and/or remote user input. In some embodiments the control circuitry 172 is configured to control whether a sensor is active or inactive.

[0068] The housing 110 of the service pillar 100 may be constructed from an opaque material (e.g. a semi-rigid reaction injection molding polyurethane). When the cap 114 is coupled to the base 112, the light levels in the interior 116 of the housing 110 may not go above a particular light level, given the housing 110 is opaque. The damage detection unit 150 may determine that the housing 110 of the service pillar 100 is potentially damaged if the light levels measured by the light sensor 160 in the interior 116 are at or above a threshold light level. For example, if the housing 110 of the service pillar 100 is damaged and the interior 116 of the housing 110 is exposed to the ambient environment, ambient light will enter into the interior 116, which may raise the light level in the interior 116 above the threshold light level.

[0069] When the cap 114 is coupled to the base 112, the temperature within the interior 116 of the housing 110 should vary relatively gradually during the day. The damage detection unit 150 may determine that the housing 110 of the service pillar 100 is potentially damaged if there is a relatively sudden increase or decrease in the temperature measured by the temperature sensor 162. For example, if the housing 110 is of the service pillar 100 is damaged and the interior 116 of the housing 110 is exposed to the ambient environment, the temperature in the interior 116 of the housing 110 may increase or decrease relatively quickly depending on the ambient temperature conditions.

[0070] When the cap 114 is coupled to the base 112, the humidity levels within the interior 116 of the housing 110 may vary relatively gradually during the day. The damage detection unit 150 may determine that the housing 110 of the service pillar 100 is potentially damaged if there is a relatively sudden increase or decrease in the humidity levels measured by the humidity sensor 164. For example, if the housing 110 of the service pillar 100 is damaged and the interior 116 of the housing 110 is exposed to the ambient environment, the humidity levels in the interior 116 of the housing 110 may increase or decrease relatively quickly depending on the ambient humidity conditions.

[0071] The housing 110 of the service pillar 100 may be exposed to impact forces during its service life, for example as discussed above. The magnitude of an impact force acting on the housing 110 may be large enough to damage the housing 110 and, therefore, cause the interior 116 of the housing 110 to be exposed to the ambient environment. However, the magnitude of an impact force acting on the housing 110 may not be large enough to damage the housing 110. In embodiments with an impact sensor 166, the damage detection unit 150 may be configured to act based on measurements from the impact sensor 166. The impact sensor 166 may be directly or indirectly mechanically coupled with the housing 110 so as to detect impacts to the housing 110. The damage detection unit 150 may determine that the housing 110 of the service pillar 100 is potentially damaged if the impact sensor measures a vibration, or acceleration of motion at or above a threshold magnitude. The threshold magnitude may be determined based on the structural strength of the housing 110. The structural strength of the housing 110 may be determined based on the material the housing is constructed from and the dimensions of the housing 110 (e.g. the thickness of the walls of the base 112 and the cap 114 of the housing 110).

[0072] The damage detection unit 150 may also use the impact sensor 166 to determine the angle of the housing 110 of the service pillar 100. When the service pillar 100 is installed, the housing 110 will be at an angle (i.e. the installation angle), which should stay relatively constant. The damage detection unit 150 may determine that the housing 110 of the service pillar 100 may be potentially damaged if the difference between the angle of the housing 110 and the installation angle is greater than a threshold difference. For example, if the housing 110 is exposed to an impact force, the angle of the housing 110 may have changed from its installation angle. If this change in angle results in the difference between the angle of the housing 110 and the installation angle being greater than the threshold difference, the damage detection unit 150 may determine that the housing 110 of the service is potentially damaged.

[0073] The damage detection unit 150 may use a combination of sensing the magnitude of an impact force acting on the housing 110 and the angle of the housing 110 to determine if the housing 110 of the service pillar 100 is potentially damaged.

[0074] The magnitude of an impact force acting on the housing 110 may be estimated using an accelerometer. The angle of the housing 110 may be estimated using an accelerometer configured to measure angle or a gyroscope sensor. If the impact sensor 166 is configured to only estimate the magnitude of an impact force acting on the housing 110, the impact sensor 166 may only comprise an accelerometer. If the impact sensor 166 is configured to only estimate the angle of the housing 110, the impact sensor 166 may comprise an accelerometer configured to measure angle and/or a gyroscope sensor. If the impact sensor 166 is configured to estimate the magnitude of an impact force acting on the housing 110 and the angle of the housing 110, the impact sensor 166 may comprise an accelerometer and a gyroscope sensor. In this embodiment, the accelerometer may be configured to estimate the magnitude of an impact force or both the magnitude of an impact force and the angle of the housing 110. Accordingly, embodiments of the impact sensor 166 may include an accelerometer and/or gyroscope sensor. However, it is envisaged that other suitable sensor known in the art may be used to estimate the magnitude of an impact force acting on the housing 110 and/or the angle of the housing 110.

[0075] Faulty, deteriorating, or damaged electrical connections may generate noise at a particular frequency. The damage detection unit 150 may determine that an electrical connection within the housing 110 of the service pillar 100 may be faulty, deteriorating, or damaged if the damage detection unit 150 detects noise using the noise sensor 168 that indicates that an electrical connection within the housing 110 of the service pillar 100 is faulty, deteriorating, or damaged.

[0076] The damage detection unit 150 may be configured to detect faulty, deteriorating, or damaged electrical connections by monitoring for particular sound frequencies that indicate potentially faulty, deteriorating, or damaged electrical connections. The damage detection unit 150 may be preprogramed to monitor for these particular sound frequencies. The damage detection unit 150 may also comprise a machine learning algorithm that can be trained to distinguish these particular sound frequencies from other sound frequencies that the service pillar 100 may be exposed to (e.g. vehicle noise, lawn mowers, and other equipment that may be operated proximate the service pillar 100).

[0077] As an example, the service pillar 100 may be exposed to an impact force that may damage an electrical connection between the distribution network cable 16 and a consumer cable 18. This damaged electrical connection may generate a noise having a particular frequency that indicates that an electrical connection with in the housing 110 of the service pillar 100 may be damaged. The damage detection unit 150 may detect this noise using the noise sensor 168 and determine that an electrical connection in the housing 110 of the service pillar 100 may be damaged.

[0078] As another example, an electrical connection within the housing 110 of the service pillar 100 may have deteriorated over time or been poorly connected by a skilled technician. This electrical connection may generate a noise having a particular frequency that indicates that an electrical connection within the housing 110 of the service pillar 100 may have deteriorated or been poorly connected. The damage detection unit 150 may detect this noise using the noise sensor 168 and determine that an electrical connection in the housing 110 of the service pillar 100 may have deteriorated or been poorly connected.

[0079] In embodiments with a frangible conductor 170, the frangible conductor 170 may be disposed around an inner peripheral surface of the housing 110. Alternatively, the frangible conductor 170 may be imbedded in the material forming the housing 110 and extend around the housing 110. The damage detection unit 150 is configured to measure the resistance of the frangible conductor 170. The damage detection unit 150 may detect breakage of the frangible conductor 170. In some embodiments the damage detection unit 150 may detect a change in the electrical properties of the frangible conductor 170 that do not involve breakage.

[0080] For example, in some embodiments the frangible conductor 170 is configured so that its resistance increases as it is stretched. The frangible conductor 170 may be stretched due to a force acting on the housing 110. The magnitude of an impact force acting on the housing may be large enough to damage the housing 110 but may not be large enough to break the frangible conductor 170 (e.g. stretch the frangible conductor 170 past its fracture point). In this case, the resistance of the frangible conductor 170 will increase. However, the magnitude of an impact force acting on the housing 110 may be large enough to damage the housing 110 and snap the frangible conductor 170. In this case, the damage detection unit 150 will measure a near infinite resistance for the frangible conductor 170. Accordingly, the damage detection unit 150 may determine that the housing 110 is potentially damaged if the resistance of the frangible conductor 170 increases above a threshold resistance.

[0081] It is envisaged that the service pillar 100 may have two frangible conductors 170, one associated with the base 112 and the other associated with the cap 114.

[0082] It is envisaged that the damage detection unit 150 may comprises a machine learning algorithm that can be trained using the sensors of the sensor module 152 to determine the typical environmental values that service pillar 100 is exposed to at its installation location. The machine learning algorithm may then be able to distinguish between the typical environmental values detected by the sensor module 152 and the values detected by the sensor module 152 that indicate potential damage to the housing 110 of the service pillar 100.

[0083] The communication device 154 of the damage detection unit 150 is configured to communicate at least one signal based on potential damage to the housing 110 detected by the sensor module 152. According to an embodiment, the communication device 154 is configured to communicate at least one signal based on potential damage to the housing 110 in response to the damage detection unit 150 detecting potential damage to the housing 110 using the sensor module 152. The communication device 154 may be configured to communicate potential damage to the housing 110 to, for example, the network operator of the electrical power distribution network 12.

[0084] The communication device 154 may communicate using any suitable communication protocol. The communication device 154 may communicate using wireless communication technologies or may be physically connected to a telecommunication network.

[0085] For example, the communication device 154 may communicate using at least one of IEEE 802.15.4 communication protocol, radio frequency, a cellular communication network, and a low power wide area network protocol. If the electricity meter 20 of the consumer 10 (see Figure 1) or a nearby consumer 10 is an advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) electricity meter, the communication device 154 may be configured to communicate using the same communication protocol as the AMI electricity meter. In some embodiments the electricity meter is an intermediary in the communication. For example, the communication device 154 may be configured to communicate potential damage to the housing 110 of the service pillar 100 to the electricity meter 20, which may relay the potential damage communication to the network operator.

[0086] The power delivery device 156 of the damage detection unit 150 is operatively coupled to an electrical power cable that is at least partially disposed in the interior 116 of the housing 110. The power delivery device 156 is configured to deliver electrical power from the electrical power cable to which it is operatively coupled to the damage detection unit 150 to power the damage detection unit 150. The electrical power cable that the power delivery device 156 is operatively coupled to may be any one of the distribution electrical power cables 16a, 16b, 16c of the distribution network cable 16 or any one of the consumer cables 18.

[0087] The power delivery device 156 may be an energy harvesting device, for example, a split core current transformer. The split core current transformer is configured to be operatively coupled to an electrical power cable by being disposed around the electrical power cable. The split core current transformer is configured to generate electrical power from the electrical power cable it is disposed around and supply the generated electrical power to the damage detection unit 150 to power the damage detection unit 150.

[0088] In embodiments of the damage detection unit 150 with the energy storage device 158, the energy storage device 158 is electrically connected to the power delivery device 156 and is configured to store electrical power supplied from the power delivery device 156. The energy storage device 158 may include for example one or more capacitors and/or one or more batteries. The energy storage device 158 is configured to continue to supply electrical power to the damage detection unit 150 for a period of time in the event that the power delivery device 156 is unable to supply electrical power to the damage detection unit 150. The power delivery device 156 may be unable to supply electrical power to the damage detection unit 150 due to a blackout of the electrical power distribution network 12 or due to the power delivery device 156 being nonoperational (e.g. broken or damaged). In the event that the power delivery device 156 is unable to supply electrical power to the damage detection unit 150, the energy storage device 158 will supply electrical power to the damage detection unit 150 to power the damage detection unit 150. In some embodiments the control circuitry 172 is configured to monitor the power delivery device 156 and cause the communication device 154 to send a signal responsive to detecting that the power delivery device has ceased to supply power.

[0089] The maintenance detection module 159 is configured to determine if the cap 114 of the housing 110 has been removed from the base 112 by, for example, a skilled technician. If the cap 114 is removed from the base 112, the damage detection unit 150 may detect potential damage to the housing 110 because one or more measurements from the sensor unit 152 may indicate that the housing 110 is potentially damaged. For example, if a skilled technician removes the cap 114 from the base 112 for maintenance reasons, the light sensor 160 may measure a light level above the threshold light level, which the damage detection unit 150 will determine as potential damage to the housing 110 and communicate such potential damage. This may cause another skilled technician to be dispatched to that service pillar 100 to determine if it is damaged. It will be appreciated that this may cause a waste in labour resources and, therefore, costs. The damage detection unit 150 may be configured to distinguish between when the cap 114 is removed for maintenance or other like reasons and when the cap 114 is removed due to damage to the housing 110. For example, the maintenance detection module 159 may detect removal of a bolt or the bolts that retain the cap 114 in place. The maintenance detection module 159 may communicate detected maintenance activities to the control circuitry 172 or to the communication device 154.

[0090] If the maintenance detection module 159 determines that the cap 114 has been removed for maintenance, this may prevent the damage detection unit 150 from communicating potential damage to the housing 110. Alternatively, a different signal may be communicated to the potential damage signal responsive to the maintenance detection module 159 detecting maintenance. Alternatively the same signal may be communicated, it being left to an administration system or person to determine whether the signal is based on damage or maintenance.

[0091] As an example, the maintenance detection module 159 may comprise a sensor (e.g. Hall sensor) that can determine when the cap 114 has been separated from the base 112. The maintenance detection module 159 may also utilise measurements from the impact sensor 166 to distinguish between when the cap 114 is removed for maintenance or other like reasons and when the cap 114 is removed due to damage to the housing 110. If the sensor of the maintenance detection module 159 detects that the cap 114 has been removed from the base 112 and that the measurements from the impact sensor 166 at the time the cap 114 was removed is below a threshold value, the maintenance detection module 159 may determine that the cap 114 has been removed for maintenance or other like reasons by a skilled technician. In this case, the maintenance detection module 159 prevents the damage detection unit 150 from communicating potential damage to the housing 110. However, if the sensor of the maintenance detection module 159 detects that the cap 114 has been removed from the base 112 and that the measurements from the impact sensor 166 at the time the cap 114 was removed is at or above the threshold value, the maintenance detection module 159 may determine that the cap 114 has been removed due to damage to the housing 110. In this case, the maintenance detection module 159 permits the damage detection unit 150 to communicate potential damage to the housing 110.

[0092] It will therefore be appreciated that the maintenance detection module 159 may reduce the possibility of a skilled technician being sent to inspect a service pillar 100 in response to receiving a communication that the service pillar 100 is potentially damaged that was triggered by another skilled technician removing the cap 114 of the housing 110 for maintenance reasons.

[0093] If the maintenance detection module 159 detects that the cap 114 has been removed for reasons other than damage to the housing 110 and that the cap 114 has not be reconnected to the base 112 within a threshold period of time, the maintenance detection module 159 may instruct the damage detection unit 150 to send a communication using the communication device 154 that the cap 114 needs to be reconnected to the base 112. This may address a situation where a skilled technician has removed the cap 114 for maintenance reasons but has forgotten to reconnect to cap 114 to the base 112 after they have completed the necessary maintenance works.

[0094] In some embodiments the damage detection unit 150 repeatedly or continuously sends a communication signal if potential damage (or maintenance as described above) is detected and ceases sending a signal if the potential damage is no longer detected. In these embodiments, a maintenance event may be distinguished from a potential damage event on the basis that the signal is repeatedly sent more than a threshold amount of times or repeatedly or continuously sent for more than a threshold duration.

[0095] The service pillar 100 may be manufactured with the damage detection unit 150. However, it is envisaged that already existing service pillars may be upgraded by retrofitting them with a damage detection unit 150 as described above. Figure 7 is a flowchart of a method 700 for installing a damage detection unit 150 in an already existing service pillar.

[0096] At step 702, the cap of the service pillar is removed from the base to expose the interior of the housing of the service pillar.

[0097] At step 704, a damage detection unit 150 as described above is disposed into the interior of the service pillar. The damage detection unit 150 may be disposed on the opposite side of the terminal board to the active terminals of the terminal board. However, the damage detection unit 150 may be installed at any suitable location in the interior of the housing of the service pillar.

[0098] At step 706, the power delivery device 156 is operatively coupled to an electrical power cable that is at least partially disposed in the housing. For example, the electrical power cable that the power delivery device is operatively coupled to may be any one of the distribution electrical power cables 16a, 16b, 16c of the distribution network cable 16 or any one of the consumer cables 18.

[0099] At step 708, the cap of the housing is recoupled to the base. At this stage, it will be appreciated that the already existing service pillar has been upgraded and is now a service pillar 100 as described above.

[0100] Operation of the service pillar 100 in relation to detecting potential damage to the housing will now be described. Figure 8 is a flowchart of a method 800 for detecting potential damage to the housing 110 of a service pillar 100 and repairing damage to the service pillar 100.

[0101] At step 802, the damage detection unit 150 detects potential damage to the housing 110 of the service pillar 100 based on one or more measurements from the sensor module 152 of the damage detection unit 150.

[0102] At step 804, the damage detection unit 150 communicates the potential damage to the housing 110 detected at step 802 using the communication device 154. The communication device 154 may, for example, communicate the potential damage to the housing 110 to the network operator of the electrical power distribution network 12.

[0103] At step 806, it is confirmed whether the service pillar 100 is damaged or not. For example, in response to receiving the communication from the service pillar 100 that it is potentially damaged, the network operator may dispatch one or more skilled technicians to the potentially damaged service pillar 100. The skilled technician(s) may inspect the service pillar 100 to confirm whether or not it is damaged.

[0104] If it is determined that the service pillar is not damaged, no action/repair of the housing 110 of the service pillar 100 is required. If it is determined that the service pillar 100 is damaged, repair of the damaged housing 110 of the service pillar is required (i.e. step 808).

[0105] At step 808, the damaged housing 110 of the service pillar 100 is repaired or replaced. If the housing 110 is significantly damaged, the skilled technician(s) may replace the housing 110. However, if the damage to the housing 110 may be repaired, the skilled technician(s) may repair the damaged housing 110. If only the base 112 or the cap 114 are damaged, the skilled technician(s) may only replace the damaged base 112 or cap 114 with a new base 112 or cap 114, respectively.

[0106] Although it has been described above that the housing 110 of a damaged service pillar 100 is repaired or replaced, it is also envisaged that the skilled technician(s) mas also inspect and repair/replace any damaged components and/or electrical connections of the service pillar 100. Accordingly, the damage detection unit 150 may also be used to detect potential damage to other components of the service pillar 100 and/or to detect potential damage to any of the electrical connections in the service pillar 100 as discussed above with respect to the noise sensor 168.

[0107] It will be appreciated that the service pillar 100 may allow a network operator of an electrical power distribution network to quickly identify and repair damaged service pillars, which may reduce the safety risks posed by damaged service pillars.

[0108] Although it has been described above that the damage detection unit 150 detects potential damage to the housing 110 based on one or more measurements from the sensor module 152, it is envisaged that the damage detection unit 150 may periodically or continuously communicate measurements from the sensor module 152 to a network operator of the underground distribution network. The network operator may subsequently determine potential damage to the housing 110 based on the measurements received from the damage detection unit 150 of the service pillar 100.

[0109] Although the sensor module 152 has been described and illustrated as having the light sensor 160, temperature sensor 162, humidity sensor 164, impact sensor 166, and noise sensor 168, it is envisaged that the sensor module 152 may comprise only one of these sensors or may comprise any combination of these sensors.

[0110] The service pillar 100 has been described and illustrated as being a mini pillar for electrically connecting a consumer to an underground electrical power distribution network, however, it will be appreciated that the service pillar 100 may be a universal pillar (commonly referred to as a uni pillar) or any other electrical service pillar known in the art. It is also envisaged that the service pillar 100 may be a telecommunications service pillar that is used to connect a consumer to a telecommunications network of a telecommunications service provider. Accordingly, it will be appreciated that the service pillar 100 may be any suitable service pillar known in the art that is for connecting a consumer to a service provider network.

[0111] Reference to any prior art in the specification is not an acknowledgement or suggestion that this prior art forms part of the common general knowledge in any jurisdiction or that this prior art could reasonably be expected to be combined with any other piece of prior art by a skilled person in the art.

[0112] By way of clarification and for avoidance of doubt, as used herein and except where the context requires otherwise, the term "comprise" and variations of the term, such as "comprising", "comprises" and "comprised", are not intended to exclude further additions, components, integers or steps.

[0113] It will be understood that the invention disclosed and defined in this specification extends to all alternative combinations of two or more of the individual features mentioned or evident from the text or drawings. All of these different combinations constitute various alternative aspects of the invention.

Claims

1. A service pillar for connecting a consumer to a service provider network, the service pillar comprising: a housing; at least one terminal disposed in the housing, the at least one terminal configured to connect the consumer to the service provider network; and a damage detection unit, the damage detection unit including: at least one sensor disposed in the housing and configured to detect potential damage to the housing; and a communication device; wherein the damage detection unit is configured to communicate, by the communication device, a signal and wherein the signal includes or is based on at least one output from the at least one sensor.

2. The service pillar of claim 1, wherein the communication device is configured to communicate the signal in response to the at least one sensor detecting potential damage to the housing.

3. The service pillar of claim 1 or 2, wherein: the at least one sensor comprises a light sensor configured to measure light levels within the housing; and the damage detection unit is configured to detect potential damage to the housing based on light levels in the housing measured by the light sensor.

4. The service pillar of any one of the preceding claims, wherein: the at least one sensor comprises a humidity sensor configured to measure humidity levels within the housing; and the damage detection unit is configured to detect potential damage to the housing based on humidity levels in the housing measured by the humidity sensor.

5. The service pillar of any one of the preceding claims, wherein: the at least one sensor comprises a temperature sensor configured to measure temperature within the housing; and the damage detection unit is configured to detect potential damage to the housing based on the temperature in the housing measured by the temperature sensor.

6. The service pillar of any one of the preceding claims, wherein: the at least one sensor comprises an impact sensor configured to measure a magnitude of an impact force acting on the housing; and the damage detection unit is configured to detect potential damage to the housing based on the magnitude of the impact force measured by the impact sensor.

7. The service pillar of any one of the preceding claims, wherein: the at least one sensor comprises a noise sensor configured to measure noise levels within the housing; and the damage detection unit is configured to detect potential damage to the housing based on noise levels in the housing measured by the noise sensor.

8. The service pillar of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the communication device is a wireless communication device.

9. The service pillar of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the damage detection unit is located within and spaced apart from the housing.

10. The service pillar of any one of the preceding claims, wherein an electrical power cable is at least partially disposed within the housing and the electrical power cable supplies electrical power to the damage detection unit.

11. The service pillar of claim 10, wherein the damage detection unit is operatively coupled to the electrical power cable.

12. The service pillar of claim 10 or 11 wherein the damage detection unit has a power delivery device operatively coupled to the electrical power cable, the power delivery device configured to supply electrical power from the electrical power cable to the damage detection unit.

13. The service pillar of claim 12, wherein the power delivery device is a split core current transformer disposed around the electrical power cable.

14. The service pillar of any one of claims 10 to 13, wherein the damage detection unit has an energy storage device configured to supply electrical power to the damage detection unit.

15. The service pillar of claim 14, wherein the damage detection unit is configured to provide electrical power from the electrical power cable to the energy storage device.

16. The service pillar of claim 14 or 15, wherein the energy storage device comprises at least one of a capacitor and a battery.

17. The service pillar of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the service pillar is an electrical power distribution service pillar or a telecommunication service pillar.

18. A damage detection unit configured to be disposed in a housing of a service pillar, the damage detection unit comprising: sensor circuitry configured to detect at least one environmental variable indicative of potential damage to the housing; and a communication device, wherein the damage detection unit is configured to cause communication, by the communication device, of at least one signal, wherein the signal is based on detection by the sensory circuitry of the at least one environmental variable.

19. The damage detection unit of claim 18, wherein the damage detection unit is configured to cause communication of the at least one signal in response to the sensor circuitry detecting potential damage to the housing.

20. The damage detection unit of claim 18 or 19, wherein: the sensor circuitry includes a light sensor configured to measure light levels within the housing; and the damage detection unit is configured to cause the communication based on light levels in the housing measured by the light sensor.

21. The damage detection unit of any one of claims 18 to 20, wherein: the sensor circuitry includes a humidity sensor configured to measure humidity levels within the housing; and the damage detection unit is configured to cause the communication based on humidity levels in the housing measured by the humidity sensor.

22. The damage detection unit of any one of claims 18 to 21, wherein: the sensor circuitry includes a temperature sensor configured to measure temperature within the housing; and the damage detection unit is configured to cause the communication based on the temperature in the housing measured by the temperature sensor.

23. The damage detection unit of any one of claims 18 to 22, wherein: the sensor circuitry includes an impact sensor configured to detect an impact force acting on the housing; and the damage detection unit is configured to cause the communication based on the magnitude of the impact force measured by the impact sensor.

24. The damage detection unit of any one of claims 18 to 23, wherein: the sensor circuitry includes a noise sensor configured to monitor noise levels within the housing; and the damage detection unit is configured to cause the communication based on noise levels in the housing measured by the noise sensor.

25. The damage detection unit of any one of claims 18 to 24, wherein the communication device is a wireless communication device.

26. The damage detection unit of any one of claims 17 to 25, wherein the damage detection unit is configured to receive electrical power from an electrical power cable at least partially disposed housing.

27. The damage detection unit of claim 26, wherein the damage detection unit is configured to be operatively coupled to the electrical power cable.

28. The damage detection unit of claim 26 or 27, wherein the damage detection unit has a power delivery device configured to be operatively coupled to the electrical power cable, the power delivery device configured to supply electrical power from the electrical power cable to the damage detection unit.

29. The damage detection unit of claim 28, wherein the power delivery device is a split core current transformer configured to be disposed around the electrical power cable.

30. The damage detection unit of any one of claims 27 to 29, wherein the damage detection unit has an energy storage device configured to supply electrical power to the damage detection unit.

31. The damage detection unit of claim 30, wherein the energy storage device is configured to receive electrical power from the electrical power cable.

32. The damage detection unit of claim 30 or 31, wherein the energy storage device is at least one of a capacitor and a battery.

33. A method of retrofitting a service pillar, the method comprising: disposing a damage detection unit according to any one of claims 19 to 32 in an interior volume defined by a housing of the service pillar; and coupling the damage detection unit with an electrical cable within the service pillar, wherein the coupling provides a power source connection for the damage detection unit.

34. A method of repairing a damaged service pillar, the method comprising: receiving a communication from the communication device of a service pillar according to any one of claims 1 to 17 that the housing of the service pillar is potentially damaged; and replacing the damaged housing with a new housing or repairing the damaged housing.