EP1242694A1

EP1242694A1 - Foundation

Info

Publication number: EP1242694A1
Application number: EP00985606A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Richard Anthony Smith
Original assignee: Portasilo Ltd
Current assignee: Portasilo Ltd
Priority date: 1999-12-18
Filing date: 2000-12-18
Publication date: 2002-09-25
Also published as: WO2001044587A1; AU2015601A; AU2201501A; WO2001044586A1; EP1242695A1; GB2374357A; WO2001044585A1; EP1242693A1; AU2201401A; GB0213916D0

Abstract

A foundation for a structure, the foundation comprising a plurality of discrete elements (31).

Description

Title: Foundation Description of Invention

This invention relates to a foundation for a structure, particularly a structure comprising a telecommunication cell site, comprising a mast and a housing for a radio telecommunication system.

When providing a cell site for a radio telecommunication system, it is desirable that the installation process be as rapid as possible. Rapid installation reduces disruption in the vicinity of tlie cell site, reduces the time taken to establish the cell site for operation and for it to begin earning revenue, reduces project management costs and allows less time during installation for vandalism or other interference. It is also desirable that tl e cell site permits of ease of upgrade, replacement or expansion, and be adaptable to accommodate equipment appropriate to tlie intended function of tlie site.

An aim of the invention is to provide a new or improved foundation.

According to one aspect of the invention, we provide a foundation for a structure, the foundation comprising at least one discrete foundation element.

In a first embodiment of the one aspect of the invention, the at least one foundation element may comprise a pile comprising an elongate metal element.

The elongate metal element may be threaded.

The elongate metal element may be hollow.

A greater part of the elongate metal element may be disposed below ground level and a lesser part may be disposed above ground level, the elongate metal element extending generally vertically.

A lower part of the elongate metal element may be received in a grout body.

A part of said elongate metal element may be surrounded by an outer element, and said cement body may wholly or partly fill said outer element.

Said outer element may extend at least partly above ground. Levelling means may be provided which may moveably be mounted on said elongate metal element to support a part of said structure.

The levelling means may be threadedly received on said pile.

The levelling means may comprise a nut wherein an upper part thereof engages said part of the structure.

Restraining means to hold the structure in engagement with said levelling means.

The restraining means may be threadedly received on said pile.

In a second embodiment and a third embodiment of the one aspect of the invention, the at least one discrete foundation element comprises a container.

Said container may be filled with a filling material to restrain movement of said container.

Said at least one foundation element may be provided with mounting means to engage a part of the structure.

The foundation element may be provided with a bulkhead, and said bulkhead may be provided with said mounting means.

The foundation element may comprise a lip at an upper part thereof, said lip being provided with said mounting means.

Said at least one foundation element may be provided with a duct to receive a cable.

Said at least one foundation element may be provided with a post anchor to receive a fence post.

Said at least one foundation element may comprise a stabiliser to engage an upwardly extending part of a structure disposed on said foundation.

In the second embodiment, a plurality of said foundation elements may be disposed adjacent to one another to define a continuous foundation extending substantially around the periphery of said structure.

The foundation elements are provided with an in-turned lip at one end thereof to engage a part of said structure. In the third embodiment, the foundation may comprise a plurality of foundation elements disposed one at each comer of said structure.

The foundation elements may extend mutually outwardly from one another.

In either the second or third embodiment, the at least one foundation element may be disposed on the surface of the ground or may be located in a trench.

A base may be provided in the trench to receive said foundation element.

According to a further aspect of the invention, we provide a structure comprising an aerial mast and a housing disposed on a foundation, the foundation comprising a foundation according to the one of aspect of the present invention.

The aerial mast may extend upwardly from said housing.

The structure may comprise a plurality of housings, wherein said aerial mast may be supported on said plurality of housings and extend upwardly therefrom.

The structure may comprise two housings, or three housings, or four housings.

Where the structure comprises two housings, the housings may be disposed spaced from one another and the mast may be mounted on two co ers of each said housings.

Alternatively, where the structure comprises two housings, the mast may be mounted on two opposed sides of each of said housings.

Where the structure comprises three housings a pair of said housings may be disposed in spaced opposed positions and a third housing may be disposed with a co er thereof abutting one corner of each of said pair of housings, and wherein said mast may engage a comer part of each of said housings. Where the structi re comprises four housings at least one of said housings may comprise support means at an upper part thereof to engage a lower part of the mast.

At least one housing may comprise an upwardly extending support member at a comer thereof provided with mounting means at an upper part thereof to engage a lower part of the mast.

The mast support means may comprise a mast based part having a plurality of outwardly extending arms, each of which engages an upwardly extending support member.

The mast based means may comprise four outwardly extending arms, each of which comprises an end part to engage a corresponding outwardly extending structural element disposed at each co er of said housing.

At least one housing may comprise a transverse structural element disposed at an upper part thereof to engage a lower part of the mast at a point spaced from the end of the structural element.

The transverse structural element may be disposed at an upper edge of the housing.

The structural element may extend between a pair of opposed edges of the upper part of the housing.

The mast may engage a comer part of each of said housings.

The mast may alternatively engage a midpoint of the upper surface of each of said housings.

At least one of said housings may be disposed on a foundation.

Said housings may each be disposed on a discrete foundation.

The invention will now be described by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which

Figure l a is a side elevation of a first structure,

Figure lb is a perspective view of part of the structure of Figure la,

Figure 2 is a side elevation of a second structure, Figure 3a is a side elevation of a third structure, Figure 3b is a perspective view of part of the structure of Figure 3a, Figure 4 is a side elevation of a fourth structure, Figure 5 is a side elevation of a fifth structure, Figure 6 is a side elevation of the structure of Figure 1 comprising a foundation according to a first embodiment of one aspect of the invention,

Figure 7 is a perspective view on a larger scale of part of the structure of

Figure 6,

Figure 8 is a plan view of a structure of Figure 6,

Figure 9 is a section on line 9-9 of Figure 8,

Figure 10a is a perspective view of the foundation of Figure 6,

Figure 10b is a perspective view on a larger scale of Figure 10a,

Figure 1 1 is an exploded view of the structure of Figure 6,

Figure 12 is a side elevation of the structure of Figure 4 provided with a foundation according to a second embodiment of one aspect of the present invention,

Figure 13 is a plan view of Figure 12,

Figure 14 is a view on a larger scale of Figure 13,

Figure 15 is a section on line 15- 15 of Figure 14,

Figure 16 is a perspective view of part of the foundation of Figure 13,

Figure 17 is a side view of an alternative configuration of the structure of Figure 12,

Figure 18 is a partial plan view of the structure of Figure 17,

Figure 19 is a perspective view of an alternative configuration of the foundation element of Figure 16,

Figure 20 is a perspective view of an alternative configuration of the foundation element of Figure 16,

Figure 21 is a side view of the structure of Figure 12 provided with a fence. Figure 22 is a plan view of part of the structure of Figure 21 , Figure 23 is a side elevation of a structure provided with a foundation according to a third embodiment of one aspect of the present invention, Figure 24 is a plan view of the structure of Figure 23, Figure 25a is a section on line 25a-25a of Figure 24, Figure 25b is a section on line 25b-25b of Figure 24, Figure 26a is a section of part of the foundation of Figure 25a, Figure 26b is a section of part of the foundation of Figure 25b, Figure 27a is a diagrammatic side elevation of a structure according to another aspect of the present invention,

Figure 27b is a plan view of the structure of Figure 27a,

Figure 27c is a plan view of an alternative configuration of the structure of Figure 27a,

Figure 27d is a plan view of an alternative configuration of the structure of Figure 27a,

Figure 28a is a diagrammatic side elevation of an alternative configuration of the structure of Figure 27a,

Figure 28b is a plan view of the structure of Figure 28a,

Figure 28c is a plan view of an alternative configuration of the structure of Figure 28 a,

Figure 29a is a side elevation of a preferred embodiment of the structure of Figure 28a,

Figure 29b is a plan view of the structure of Figure 29a,

Figure 30a is a side elevation of an alternative configuration of the structure of Figure 29a,

Figure 30b is a plan view' of the structure of Figure 30a.

Figure 31 a is a side elevation of a preferred embodiment of a structure of Figure 28c,

Figure 3 lb is a plan view of the structure of Figure 31 a, Figure 32 is a perspective view of the structure of Figures 3 l a and 3 lb,

Figure 33a is a side elevation of an alternative embodiment of the structure of Figure 3 la, and

Figure 33b is a plan view of the structure of 33a.

Referring now to Figures l a and lb, a structure S i is shown provided with a housing 10 on which is mounted an aerial mast 1 1. At the upper end of the aerial mast 1 1 is provided communication means 12 for receiving and transmitting electromagnetic signals such as digital and/or analogue radio frequency signals and microwave signals. The communication means 12 illustrated in Figure 1 comprises antennae 13 and microwave dishes 14, although any other suitable communication means may be provided as desired. The housing 10 and mast 1 1 are interconnected by a mast base part 15. The mast base part 15 in this example comprises four outwardly extending arms 16, an end part 17 of each of which engages an upwardly extending structural element 18 disposed at each co er of the housing 10. The housing 10 is adapted to house suitable operating equipment (not shown), which may for example comprise a transceiver system capable of transmitting and receiving electrical signals such as digital and/or analogue radio frequency signals and microwave signals. The operating equipment further preferably comprises a power supply unit to provide an interface between a power supply such as a mains power supply, or a power supply from an outside generator. The operating equipment may also comprise any other equipment as desired, e.g. a back-up power supply from a battery, means for controlling environmental conditions within the housing 10 such as air cooling means, heating means and/or refrigeration means.

Referring to Figure 2, the structure S2 shown therein comprises a housing 10 of the same configuration as the housing of Figure 1 , but comprises a mast 1 1 ' of open lattice work configuration. At the upper part of the mast 1 1' is provided communication means 12' as desired. The lower region of the aerial mast 1 1' comprises an outwardly tapering section l l'a which engages a mast base part 15'. In like manner to the mast base part 15 of Figure 1, the mast base part 15' comprises outwardly extending arms 16', each of which is provided with an end part 17 which engages an upwardly extending structural element 18 of the housing 10.

In a further alternative as shown in Figure 3, a structure S3 is shown having a similar structure to structure S2 shown in Figure 2, but in place of the lower mast part l l'a and mast base part 15', the lower part of the aerial mast 1 1 " comprises an outwardly tapering part 1 1 "a. Extending between the tapering mast part 1 1 "a and the housing 10 is a mast interface part 19, comprising an open lattice work structure which extends between the comers of the lower mast part 1 l "a and the upper comers of the housing 10. The mast interface part 19 comprises base parts 20 which engage the upwardly extending structural elements 18 of the housing 10.

The housing 10 is the same in Figures l a, lb, 2, 3a, 3b and thus a single housing may support a selected one of a plurality of mast types as desired.

In a still further alternative as shown in Figure 4, a structure indicated by S4 comprises an equipment housing 21 and an aerial mast 22 of part lattice work configuration provided with communication means 12'" at an upper part thereof The mast 22 is mounted on and upper surface 21 a the housing 21 towards an edge of the upper surface 2 1 a.

In Figures 1 to 4, the housing 10, in plan view is of generally square configuration.

Further alternatively, the structure may comprise an integral housing and aerial mast as shown at S5 in Figure 5, and as described in our co-pending UK patent application no. GB 2340513 A. In this embodiment, the structure S5 comprises an upper region 23a and a lower region 23b of greater cross-section than the upper region 23a. A middle region 24 of the structure S5 is tapered such that the upper end of the middle region 24 has a cross-section substantially the same as that of the lower end of the region 23a, and the lower end of the middle region 24 has a cross-section substantially equal to that of the upper end of the lower region 23b. The lower region 23b provides a housing adapted to house operating equipment as discussed hereinbefore. The structure S5 is further provided with communication means 12 at an upper part thereof as discussed hereinbefore with reference to Figures 1 to 4. In this configuration, the upper mast part 23a, lower region 23b and middle region 24 are substantially circular in plan view.

Referring now to Figure 6, a structure S I as shown in Figure 1 is located on a foundation 30 according to a first embodiment of one aspect of the invention. As best seen in Figures 7 to 9, the foundation comprises a plurality of foundation elements 3 1 disposed one at each corner of the housing 10. Each foundation element 3 1 comprises a generally cylindrical pile cap 32, the greater part of which is disposed generally vertically in the ground with a part 32a thereof projecting above ground level. Disposed within the pile cap 32 is a pile 33 comprising a hollow threaded tube provided at its lower end with a clay bit 34. The pile 33 is disposed such that an upper part thereof projects above the upper end of the pile cap 32, whilst the bit 34 is disposed below the lower end of the pile cap 32. Surrounding the pile 33 is a grout body 35 comprising an appropriate cement. The upper surface of the grout body 35 is generally flush with the upper edge of the pile cap 32. and the grout body completely fills the space between the pile 33 and cylindrical element 32. Below the cylindrical element 32, the grout body 35 extends irregularly into the surrounding ground. The cement infiltrates the ground outside the body 34 to define a transition zone 37. Such a foundation element 3 1 allows transfer of tension and compression forces into the ground via the grout body 35 as a result of the friction between the grout body and the ground, while the pile cap 32 also permits the foundation element 31 to transfer horizontal loads into the surrounding ground whilst minimising any resulting movement by providing a large surface area in contact with the ground.

As best seen in Figure 7, the housing 10 comprises a base structure 38 comprising first side beams 39a and second side beams 39b. Disposed projecting from the junction of the side beams 39a, 39b adjacent an end part thereof is a connection means 40 comprising a pair of generally horizontally extending, generally parallel ears 41 a, 41b, the ears being generally triangular in plan view with a rounded outer part, and each provided with an aperture 41c, 41d respectively. Connected between the ears 41 a, 41b is a cylinder 42 extending between the apertures 41 c. 4 I d and having an interior diameter to receive the upper part of the pile 33. A gusset 43 is connected between the tube 42, ears 41 a, 4 lb and second side beam 39b to provide additional stiffness to the connection means 40.

As shown in Figure 7, a first nut 44a is screwed on to the pile 33, the first nut 44a in the present example comprising a spherical collar nut with a generally spherical surface disposed facing upwardly to engage the lower end of the tube 42. The housing 10 is located on the foundation element 31 with the pile 33 received in the connection means 40 such that the connection means rests on the first nut 44a. A second nut 44b is received on the pile 33 and screwed down to engage the upper ear 41 a and to hold the housing 10 in place. The second nut 44b in the present example comprises a spherical collar nut and is threaded on to the pile 33 such that the part spherical surface faces downwardly to engage the upper end of the tube 42.

To prepare a foundation 30, holes for each of the pile caps 32 are bored to the desired depth and the pile caps 32 inserted. A piling jig 45, as shown in Figure 10a may be used to guide placement of the cylindrical elements 32. As seen in Figures 10a and 10b, the piling jig 45 comprises a reinforced frame comprising four perpendicular side members 46a and a diagonal bracing member 46b. At each corner of the piling jig 45 a co er element 47 is located, the comer elements 47 each comprising an upwardly extending aperture 48a provided with clamping bolts 48b. The apertures 48a of the jig 44 are disposed at the same spacing as the connection means 40 of the housing 10.

In the present example, the side members 46a and diagonal bracing member 46b may comprise two detachable parts, which are detachably connected to the comer elements 47. The piling jig 45 can hence be disassembled into a number of smaller pieces for ease of transport.

Once the pile caps 32 have been located in their respective holes, using a suitable driving means the piles 33 are each drilled into the ground in a position generally concentric with a corresponding pile cap 32, until the pile reaches the desired depth to accommodate the expected loading on the structure. To form the grout body 33 grout cement is supplied to the hollow interior of the pile 33 such that the cement infiltrates the surrounding soil and fills up the pile cap 32 to form a grout body 35 of the desired size. Referring now to Figure 10b, the piling jig 45 is placed on the foundation elements 31 such that each pile 33 is received in a corresponding aperture 48a. The clamping bolts 48b are tightened to hold the piles 33 in place whilst the cement forming the grout body 34 sets. The cement is preferably selected to be of the type such that it sets to working strength in four hours and sets sufficiently to accommodate full loading from the structure in twenty-four hours.

As seen in Figure 1 1 , once the cement has set sufficiently, the structure S I may be erected after removing the template 45 by providing a first nut 44a on each pile 33 and lowering the housing 10 onto the foundation 30 such that each pile 33 is received in a corresponding mounting means 40.

By adjusting the position of the first nuts 44a on the piles 33, the housing 10 can be levelled with relative ease. Once the housing 10 is level, the second nuts 44b can be threaded on to the piles 33 until they engage the mounting means 40 as hereinbefore described to hold the housing 10 rigidly in place. The mast base part 15 is then disposed on the housing 10 and connection elements 49 passing through the ends 17 of the outwardly extending arms 16 are screwed into appropriate receiving means at the top of the upstanding stiTJCtural elements 18 of the housing 10. The mast 1 1 may then be attached to the mast base part 15 by suitable means. Operating equipment may be provided in the housing 10 and communication means provided at the upper part of the mast 1 1.

Such a foundation is particularly advantageous in that the housing 10 may be levelled by adjustment of the first nuts 44a irrespective of the depth to which the piles 33 are set or the level or gradient of the ground beneath the housing 10. The top of the pile cap 32 may project above ground to the desired extent necessary, or may even be flush with or below ground level if needed. The typical maximum space between the top of the pile cap 32 and grout body 35, and the lower surface of the first nut 44a in the present example is 20mm, although this spacing may be varied as required to level the housing 10.

In the present example, gradients of the site may be accommodated without requiring initial levelling, preferably up to around 10°. The foundation elements 31 are disposed such that the base of the housing 10 is set at typically 100mm above ground level.

In the present example, as show n in Figure 9, the site for the structure S I has been cleared and a membrane 50 laid on the ground with a layer of gravel 51 disposed thereon, but such site preparation is not necessary, and may be adapted or omitted as desired.

Referring now to Figures 12 lo 22. a structure provided with a foundation according to a second e bodiment of the first aspect invention is shown. As shown in Figure 12, a structure S4, as shown in Figure 4, is provided with a foundation generally located at 100 comprising a plurality of foundation elements 101. As best shown in Figure 15 and 16, each foundation element 101 comprises upwardly extending side walls 102a|, 102a" and end walls 102b', 102b". The upper and lower faces of the foundation element 101 are open. Attached to an upper edge of each of the side walls 102a', 102a" is an outwardly extending lip 103. Extending transversely across the container is a bulkhead 104, and provided at the top of said bulkhead 104 is a bulkhead lip 105 which extends towards the end wall 102b', 102b". Mounting means 106, in the present example apertures to receive a suitable connecting means, are provided on the outwardly extending lips 103 and bulkhead lip 105. The bulkliead 104 provides additional rigidity to the container 105. In one comer of the foundation element 101 is provided a post anchor 107, in the present example a square socket adapted to receive a fence post. The container is further provided with apertures in the end walls 102b', 102b" and the bulkhead 104 which receive a longitudinally extending duct 108 through which cables 109 may be passed for, for example a power connection or a communication connection as desired.

To provide the foundation 100. a plurality of such foundation elements 101 are provided, preferably arranged such that each comer of the structure S4 to be mounted on the foundation w ill engage a respective one of said foundation elements 101 as shown in Figure 13. A trench 1 10 as shown in Figure 15 is excavated to receive each foundation element 101 , the bottom part of each trench being provided with a suitable base 1 1 1 , for example concrete, compacted sand or other suitable material. The foundation element 101 is placed in the trench 1 10 such that it rests on the base 1 1 1 , and is filled with a filler 1 12, for example dry mix or other dense material. A cable 109 may be passed through the duct 108 such that the free end of the cable 109 emerges beneath the position of the structure S4. The remainder of the trench 1 10 may be filled with suitable infill material 1 13. The structure S4 may then be located on the foundation elements as appropriate, for example as a single prefabricated unit and may be attached directly to the foundation elements 101. For example, as shown in Figure 14, a part of the structure S may be mounted on the foundation elements 101 such that connection means 1 15 comprising moment-conveying connection means engage the mounting means 106 of the foundation element 101. Preferably, each foundation element 101 is located below a comer of the structure S4 such that the sides of the structure S4 are at an angle 45° to the bulkhead 104 and so that the structure S4 is attached the three mounting means 106 of each foundation element 101 by connecting means 1 15 as shown. Operating equipment located within the structure S4 may be connected to, for example, communication, power and other cables 109.

Where it is desired to provide a separate housing outside the structure S4, for example a meter cabinet, an alternative embodiment of the foundation element 101 may be provided as shown in Figures 17 to 19. As shown in Figure 19, a foundation element 101 ' is provided with two ducts having a first part 128a, 129a and an upwardly extending second part, 128b, 129b respectively which extends upwardly of the foundation element 101 '. The foundation element 101 ' is provided with apertures in the end walls 102b', 102b", and the bulkhead 104 in like manner to the foundation element of Figure 16. The duct part 128a extends longitudinally inwardly of end wall 102b', while the duct part 129a extends longitudinally inwardly of end wall 102b" and passes through bulkhead 104. The upwardly extending second parts 128b, 129b are disposed generally parallel and adjacent to one another. The foundation element 101 is also provided wiπi a pair of diagonal support strips 130.

As shown in Figures 17 and 18, a cabinet 13 1 may be placed on said foundation element 101 attached to said support strips 130 over said upwardly extending second parts 128b, 129b. The equipment in the cabinet 131, for example a meter, may be connected to equipment inside the structure S4 via the second part 129b, and may be connected to an external connection via the second part 128b. Such a foundation element 101 is provided with mounting means 106 in like manner to the foundation element 101 of Figure 16 and may be filled with filler in like manner.

When a structure S4 is attached to a foundation 100 having a plurality of foundation elements 101 , said foundation elements 101 having been installed and filled with filler, the foundation is sufficiently securely mounted to resist wind loading of the structure.

Where relatively high wind loading of the structure may be expected, one or more of said foundation elements 101 may be provided with an additional support 132 as shown in Figure 20. The support 132 extends upwardly from an end wall 102i of the foundation element 10 in such a way as to engage an upwardly extending part of the structure S4 mounted on said foundation element 10. Such an additional support 132 will provide an additional resistance to wind turning moment on the structure S4.

It may be desirable that any such structure S may be fenced off, for reasons of security. As shown in Figures 21 and 22, fence posts 133 may be located in each of the post anchors 107 and a fence 134 connected therebetween.

The present invention thus permits the relatively quick and straightforward establishment of a foundation and erection of a structure, with significantly lower time and equipment requirements than providing a conventional poured concrete foundation.

Although the foundation element 101 is shown as open at the top and bottom, it will be apparent that the foundation element 101 may be provided with a complete or partial base and/or a complete or partial top as desired. Although the walls of the foundation element 101 are shown as generally planar, they may be provided with inwardly directed projections to key the foundation element 101 to the filler 1 12. Suitable keels (not shown) may be provided to anchor the foundation elements 101 to the ground if required. If desired, the base 1 11 of the trench 1 10 may be omitted. The filler 1 12 may comprise pre-mixed concrete which will go off as a result of the dampness in the soil or the environment. The bulkhead 104 may be omitted as desired, particularly if cross-braces or other stiffening means are provided.

Referring now to Figures 23 to 26b, a structure provided with a foundation according to a third embodiment of the invention is shown. As shown in Figure 23 the structure comprises a structure S3 as shown in Figure 3 mounted on a foundation 200. The foundation 200 comprises a generally square formation extending around the perimeter of the housing 10 of the structure S3, and comprises a plurality of first foundation elements 201 and second foundation elements 202 disposed abutting one another. The first foundation elements 201 comprise relatively short end walls 203a, 203b and relatively long side walls 204a, 204b. In plan view, the second foundation elements 202 likewise comprise relatively short end walls 203'a, 203'b and relatively long side wall 204'a, 204'b. The second foundation elements 202 are relatively short and relatively broad compared to the first foundation elements 201. The foundation elements 201 , 202 are disposed in the foundation 200 such that the short edges 203b of the first foundation elements 201 are disposed alongside a long edge of the housing 10, whilst the short edges 203'b of the second foundation elements 202 are disposed alongside the relatively short edges of the housing 10 and alongside the long edges 204a, 204b of the first foundation elements 201 . By disposing first foundation elements 201 and second foundation elements 202 on opposed sides of the housing in this manner, a generally square foundation 200 can be formed as shown in plan view in Figure 24.

As best seen in Figures 26a and 26b, the end walls 203b, 203'b are provided with an inturned lip 205, 205' respectively. The side walls 204a, 204b, 204'a, 204'b extend upwardly over a part of the height of the end walls 203a, 203b, 203'a, 203'b. At the end of the side walls 204a, 204b, 204'a, 204'b adjacent the ends walls 2031), 203'b, the side walls comprise an upwardly extending part 206, 206' which is joined at its upper edge to the intumed lip 205, 205' to support the lip 205, 205'. Extending across a lower part of the foundation elements 201 , 202 is a mesh, 207, 207'. Projecting downwardly from the foundation elements 201 , 202 are earth spikes 208 which are received into the ground. The earth spikes 208, 208' may be omitted if desired.

As shown in Figure 24, on opposed sides of the housing 10 a plurality of first foundation elements 201 and second foundation elements 202 are disposed in side-by-side configuration with their relatively long walls 203a. 203b, 203'a, 203'b abutting one another. In the present example, eight first foundation elements 201 are disposed alongside each long edge of the housing 10, with the relatively short side 203b adjacent the housing 10. The second foundation elements 202 are disposed such that they extend alongside the shorter edges of the housing 10 and alongside the long edges 203b, 203a of the outermost first foundation elements 201 . The second foundation elements 202 are disposed such that the relatively short side 203'b with the inturned lip 205' is disposed adjacent the housing 10 or a first foundation element 201 as appropriate.

As shown in Figures 25a, 25b and first layer 2 10 comprising self- levelling grout is poured into the foundation elements 201 , 202 such that the upper surface of the first layer 210 is above the mesh 207, 207'

Disposed on the first layer 2 10 is a second layer 21 1 comprising a plurality of high density concrete blocks 2 12. The height of the blocks 212 is such that their upper surfaces 212a are disposed just above the upper edges of the side walls 204a, 204b, 204'a, 204'b. The second layer 21 1 abuts the outer end wall 203a, 203'a. Disposed between the end wall 203b, 203'b and the second layer 21 1 is an end plate 213 in abutment with one of the blocks 212, provided with a block compression means 2 14 to maintain the blocks 212 in mutual abutment with one another and in abutment with the end wall 203a, 203'a. The block compression system may for example comprise a threaded rod extending through the blocks 212 and provided with a nut adjacent the end plate 213, 213 ', or may comprise any other means as appropriate. A third layer 215, 215' is then disposed on top of the second layer 21 1, comprising flagstones 215a having a desired thickness, in the present example 50mm. The upper surface of the flagstones 215a are at generally the same height as the upper edge of the end wall 203a. 203b, 203'a, 203'b.

To attach the housing 10 to the foundation 200, the housing 10 is provided adjacent to the lower part thereof with a bracket 2 16 comprising an outwardly directed flange 217. The flange 217 engages the upper surface of the inturned lips 205, 205' and are attached thereto by a suitable connection mean 218. The connection means 218 also helps maintain the foundation elements 201, 203 in position relative to one another.

To connect necessary cabling, for example telecommunication and power cables, ducts 219, 220 are provided passing though the foundation 200 and into the housing 10. In the present example, the duct 219 passes straight through the foundation 200. The duct 220 comprises a first part 220a which extends through the foundation from the housing 10 to a cabinet 221 , in the present example a meter cabinet. A second part 220b of the duct 220 extends from the meter cabinet to the outside of the foundation 200. The meter cabinet 221 is disposed at the edge of the foundations 200, and preferably allows access to the cabinet from the side of the meter cabinet facing away from the housing 10. Where the structure S3 is provided with a perimeter fence extending around the edge of the foundation 200, access may thus be gained to the meter cabinet 221 without needing to pass through the perimeter fence.

It will be apparent that any of the structures S I , S2, S3, S4, S5 may provide in combination with any of the foundations 30, 100, 200 as desired and as appropriate for the site on which the structure is to be erected. Although the structures S I, S2, S3, S4 each have an aerial mast supported on a single housing, it may at times be desirable to provide a single site with multiple housings and a single mast, for example where a site is shared between two or more operators, to reduce costs, where expansion of a site is required, or for any other reason as necessary. As shown diagrammatically in Figures 27a, 27b, 27c, 27d, a shared site structure S6 may comprise a plurality of housings 401 , each supported on an appropriate foundation as shown diagrammatically at 402 and jointly supporting an aerial mast 403 in like manner to, for example, the housing 10 of Figures 1 and 2. As seen in plan view in Figures 27b, 27c. 27d. it might be envisaged that the mast 403 could be supported on two, three or even four housings 401.

In an alternative arrangement, where it is desired to space the housings more closely, the configuration of Figure 28a may be used, wherein mast 403' is supported adjacent a midpoint of housings 401 ', rather than at a comer thereof. As seen in the plan view of Figure 28b, the mast 403' may be connected with a part adjacent at the midpoint of two edges of each housing 401'. Alternatively, it may be desirable to support the mast 403 on four housings 401, as shown in plan view in Figure 28c. The lower part of the mast 403' may be supported at a central region of the upper part of each housing 401'. The housings 401 ' may comprise a structure such as the mast base part 15' as shown in Figure 2 to engage and support the lower part of the mast 403 '.

As seen in more detail in Figures 29a, 29b and Figures 30a, 30b, a structure 57 may comprise a pair of housings 501 of generally rectangular configuration in plan view, are disposed either in end to end configuration as shown in Figures 29a and 29b, or with their long sides facing one another as shown in Figures 30a and 30b.

The housings 501 are mounted on foundations shown diagrammatically at 502 and support a mast 503. In end-to-end configuration shown in Figures 29a and 29b, the mast 503 comprises a low er part 504 which is of generally rectangular shape as seen in plan view such that the width of the lower part 504 of the mast 503 is approximately that of the housings 501. The housings 501 are provided with support elements 506 disposed along their upper, longer edges, provided with mounting means 307 for the mast 503 at a midpoint thereof.

In the configuration of Figures 30a and 30b, the mast 503 has a lower part 504 which is of generally square configuration, such that the length of the sides of the lower part 504 is approximately that of the length of the housings 501. The housings 501 are provided with structural elements 506' disposed along the shorter, upper edges thereof, similarly provided with support means 507' at the midpoint thereof to engage the lower mast part 504'.

A particular example of a structure comprising a mast mounted on four housings as shown in Figure 28c is shown at 600 in Figures 31 a, 3 lb and Figure 32. In these drawings, four housings 601 , each preferably comprising a housing of the type shown at 10 in Figures 1 and 2 support a mast 603. Each of the housings 601 comprises a mast base part 602. In like manner to the mast base parts shown in Figures l a, l b and 2, the mast base part 602 comprises four outwardly extending amis 604 connected to a central base part 605. The amis 604 each engage an upwardly extending structural part 606 disposed at the comers of the housing 601. As will be apparent from the drawings, the mast 603 comprises an upper part 603a, and a lower part 603b, the lower part 603b tapering outwardly at a greater angle than the upper part 603a to provide a wider base for the mast 603. In the view in Figure 32, the structure 600 is further provided with walls 607 connected between adjacent housing 601 to prevent or hinder access between the housing 601 and to provide a continuous exterior wall for the structure 600. Each housing 601 is either provided with foundation means 608 suitable for engagement with a foundation 30 as shown in Figures 6 to 9. In an alternative configuration of the structure of Figures 31 a, 31 b and 32, in which the housings 601 are ananged in two pairs each having mutually opposed and parallel longer side walls, the configuration of Figure 33a and 33b shows a structure 600' in which the housings 601 are disposed such that each outer face of the stiucture 600' includes a long wall of one housing 601 and a short wall of another housing 601. In this embodiment, as will be seen from Figure 33b, the mast 603' is disposed on a plurality of mast base parts 602 disposed are on each housing 601 in such a way that the mast 603' is rotated with respect to the outwardly facing walls of the housings 601. Such an arrangement of housings 601 provides a structure 600' which has a squarer foot print that the structure 600, and in which the base of the mast 603' is less elongate than the base of the mast 603.

The modular nature of the structures and foundations described herein enable a cell site to be set up quickly and comparatively easily to a desired configuration. In particular, a standard housing may be provided as the housings 10, 401, 501 , 601 and thus may be used either singly to use the mast thereon, or in structures of two or more such housings to support a common mast on all such housings. A common mast base part 16, 16' may be provided which may support either a single mast, which may be of an open lattice configuration or any other configuration as desired, or may support a part of a mast supported on one or more mast base parts. Similarly, the desired combination of housings, mast base supports and masts may be provided on any of the foundations described hereinbefore or otherwise as desired. The modular nature similarly permits expansion of a site if necessary.

Where a single housing 10, 401 , 501 is provided, mast types of up to 22.5 meters to the underside of the communication means may be used and where a plurality of housing means are provided, a higher mast, for example of up to 30 or 40 metres may be provided. An antenna cable from the communication means may be routed by being clamped to a lattice mast or contained within a closed mast where appropriate where appropriate and pass through a suitable wateiproof gland aperture in the roof of the housing. The vertical compressive and tensile forces earned to the foundation elements from the mast through the vertical members of the housing structure whilst the housing preferably comprises a welded wall construction to resist shear forces. In all configurations suitable fencing and other security means may be provided as desired.

In a regular site, where there are delays from connection to an electricity supplier, a generator may be supplied to supply power to the operating means in the interim, the self contained, portable telecommunications cell unit may be provided to enable the site to be operated even whilst the structure and the equipment are being installed.

It will be appreciate that any combination of the structures and foundations as described herein may be used as desired.

In the present specification "comprise" means "includes or consists of and "comprising" means "including or consisting of .

The features disclosed in the foregoing description, or the following claims, or the accompanying drawings, expressed in their specific forms or in terms of a means for performing the disclosed function, or a method or process for attaining the disclosed result, as appropriate, may, separately, or in any combination of such features, be utilised for realising the invention in diverse forms thereof

Claims

1. A foundation for a structure, the foundation comprising at least one discrete foundation element.

2. A foundation according to claim 1 wherein said at least one foundation element comprises a pile comprising an elongate metal element.

3. A foundation according to claim 2 wherein the elongate metal element is threaded.

4. A foundation according to claim 2 or claim 3 wherein the elongate metal element is hollow.

5. A foundation according to any one of claims 2 to 4 wherein a greater part of the elongate metal element is disposed below ground level and a lesser part is disposed above ground level, the elongate metal element extending generally vertically.

6. A foundation according to any one of claims 2 to 5 wherein a lower part of the elongate metal element is received in a grout body.

7. A foundation according to claim 6 wherein a part of said elongate metal element is sunounded by an outer element, and said cement body wholly or partly fills said outer element.

8. A foundation according to claim 6 or claim 7 wherein said outer element extends at least partly above ground.

9. A foundation acco ding to any one of claims 2 to 8 wherein a levelling means is provided which is moveably mounted on said elongate metal element to support a part of said structure.

10. A foundation according to claim 9 where dependent directly or indirectly on claim 9 wherein the levelling means is threadedly received on said pile.

11. A foundation according to claim 10 wherein the levelling means comprises a nut and wherein an upper part thereof engages said part of the structure.

12. A foundation according to any one of claims 9 to 1 1 comprising restraining means to hold the structure in engagement with said levelling means.

13. A foundation according to claim 12 wherein the restraining means is threadedly received on said pile.

14. A foundation according to claim 1 wherein the at least one discrete foundation element comprises a container.

15. A foundation according to claim 14 wherein said containers is filled with a filling material to restrain movement of said container.

16. A foundation according to claim 14 or claim 15 wherein said at least one foundation element is provided with mounting means to engage a part of the structure.

17. A foundation according to claim 16 wherein the foundation element is provided with a bulkhead, and said bulkhead is provided with said mounting means.

18. A foundation according to Claim 16 or Claim 17 wherein the foundation element comprises a lip at an upper part thereof, said lip being provided with said mounting means.

19. A foundation according to any one of claims 14 to 18 wherein said at least one foundation element is provided with a duct to receive a cable.

20. A foundation according to any one of claim 17 to 19 wherein said at least one foundation element is provided with a post anchor to receive a fence post.

21. A foundation according to any one of claims 14 to 20 wherein said at least one foundation element comprises a stabiliser to engage an upwardly extending part of a structure disposed on said foundation.

22. A foundation according to any one of claims 14 to 19 wherein a plurality of said foundation elements are disposed adjacent to one another to define a continuous foundation extending substantially around the periphery of said structure.

23. A foundation according to claim 22 wherein the foundation elements are each provided with an in-turned lip at one end thereof to engage a part of said structure.

24. A foundation to any one of claims 17 to 21 wherein the foundation comprises a plurality of foundation elements disposed one at each comer of said structure.

25. A foundation according to claim 24 wherein the foundation elements extend mutually outwardly from one another.

26. A foundation according to any one of claims 14 to 25 wherein the at least one foundation element is disposed on the surface of the ground.

27. A foundation according to any one of claims 14 to 25 wherein the at least one foundation element is located in a trench.

28. A foundation according to Claim 26 wherein a base is provided in the trench to receive said foundation element.

29. A foundation substantially as described herein with reference to the accompanying drawings.

30. A stiucture comprising an aerial mast and a housing disposed on a foundation, the foundation comprising a foundation according to any one of the preceding claims.

31. A structure according to Claim 30 wherein the aerial mast extends upwardly from said housing.

32. A structure according to Claim 30 or Claim 31 comprising a plurality of housings, wherein said aerial mast is supported on said plurality of housings and extends upwardly therefrom.

33. A structure according to Claim 32 comprising two housings.

34. A stiucture according to Claim 32 wherein the housings are disposed spaced from one another and wherein the mast is mounted on two comers of each said housings.

35. A stiucture according to Claim 33 wherein the mast is mounted on two opposed sides of each of said housings.

36. A structure according to Claim 32 comprising three housings.

37. A stiucture according to Claim 36 wherein a pair of said housings are disposed in spaced opposed positions and a third housing is disposed with a comer thereof abutting one comer of each of said pair of housings, and wherein said mast engages a comer part of each of said housings.

38. A stiucture according to Claim 27 comprising four housings.

39. A structure according to Claim 38 wherein the mast engages a comer part of each of said housings.

40. A stiucture according to Claim 38 wherein the mast engages a midpoint of the upper surface of each of said housings.

41. A structure according to any one of Claims 32 to 40 wherein at least one of said housings comprises support means at an upper part thereof to engage a lower part of the mast.

42. A stiucture according Claim 41 wherein at least one of said housings comprises an upwardly extending support member at a comer thereof provided with mounting means at an upper part thereof to engage the mast support means.

43. A stiucture according to Claim 42 wherein said mast support means comprises a mast base part having a plurality of outwardly extending arms, each of which engages an upwardly extending support member.

44. A stiucture according to Claim 43 wherein the mast base means comprise four outwardly extending aims, each of which comprises an end part to engage a coiresponding upwardly extending structural element disposed at each comer of said housing.

45. A stiucture according to Claim 42 wherein said mast support means comprises a transverse structural element disposed at an upper part thereof to engage a lower part of the mast at a point spaced from the end of the structural element.

46. A structure according to Claim 45 wherein the transverse structural element is disposed at an upper edge of the housing.

47. A structure according to Claim 45 wherein the structural element extends between a pair of opposed edges of the upper part of the housing.

48. A structure according to any one of Claims 32 to 47 wherein at least one of said housings is disposed on a foundation.

49. A stiucture according to Claim 48 wherein at least two of said housings are each disposed on a discrete foundation.

50. A stiucture as described herein and/or with reference to the accompanying drawings.

51. Any novel feature or novel combination of features described herein and/or in the accompanying drawings.