EP4058646A1

EP4058646A1 - Lamp post with a functional pole module

Info

Publication number: EP4058646A1
Application number: EP20804287.9A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Stéphane Girouard; Daniel Sousa; Ricardo JANEIRO
Original assignee: Schreder SA
Current assignee: Schreder SA
Priority date: 2019-11-15
Filing date: 2020-11-16
Publication date: 2022-09-21
Also published as: NL2024248B1; WO2021094612A1

Abstract

A lamp post comprising a plurality of pole modules arranged one above the other along a central axis of the lamp post, said plurality of pole modules comprising a functional pole module for receiving and/or emitting signals; said functional pole module comprising: a housing comprising a lower section, a middle section and an upper section; a support arranged in said housing and configured for supporting multiple functional units which are configured for receiving and/or emitting signals; wherein the support is provided with multiple brackets, preferably at least three brackets, for creating multiple support areas for the multiple functional units; wherein the middle section is configured so that the multiple functional units can receive and/or emit signals from and/or to the environment through said middle section.

Description

Lamp post with a functional pole module

Field of Invention

The field of the invention relates to lamp posts, in particular lamp posts in the form of outdoor luminaires. Particular embodiments relate to the field of modular lamp posts comprising a number of functional pole modules such as a camera pole module. Other embodiments relate to a functional pole module for use in such modular lamp posts, and in particular a camera pole module comprising multiple camera units.

Background

EP 3076073 B1 in the name of the applicant discloses a modular lamp post which is readily assembled and installed in the field whilst providing rigidity, structural integrity and sealing. The lamp post comprises a plurality of pole modules mounted on a support pole. The pole modules are connected to one another by respective pole module connectors and one pole module thereof is connected to the support pole by a pole module connector. EP 3 076073 B1 is included herein by reference.

Further it is known to include additional functionalities, either in the modular lamp post itself or in a separate cabinet adjacent a lamp post. Examples of such modular lamp posts are disclosed in WO 2019/043045 Al, WO 2019/043046 A1 and WO2020/152294 in the name of the applicant. An example with a camera pole module is disclosed in WO 2019/092273 Al in the name of the applicant. WO 2019/092273 Al discloses a lamp post comprising a plurality of pole modules arranged one above the other along a vertical axis. The plurality of pole modules comprises a light pole module with a light source and a camera pole module. The camera pole module comprises a tubular portion configured for being aligned with the vertical axis of the support pole, a bracket protruding outwardly of said tubular portion, and a camera unit fixed to said bracket. The bracket may be provided with a removable connection interface configured for removably connecting the camera unit to the bracket. This allows the camera unit to be arranged in a convenient manner at a distance of the vertical axis of the support pole. Although such solution is advantageous for certain applications, such embodiments have the disadvantage that the camera unit is not well protected (such that the camera unit itself needs to have a high ingress protection rating, e.g. IP66) and that it is difficult to get a good view (i.e. coverage) of the entire area surrounding the lamp post.

Summary

The object of embodiments of the invention is to provide a modular lamp post with an improved functional pole module, in particular a camera pole module, providing good protection of the functional units, in particular camera units, and allowing obtaining an improved coverage of the surroundings.

According to an aspect of the invention there is provided a lamp post comprising a plurality of pole modules arranged one above the other along a central axis of the lamp post. The plurality of pole modules comprises a functional pole module for receiving and/or emitting signals. The functional pole module comprises a housing, a support arranged in the housing, and one or more functional units which are configured for receiving and/or emitting signals, preferably at least three functional units, arranged in the housing, on the support. The housing comprises a lower section, a middle section and an upper section. The middle section is configured so that the multiple functional units can receive and/or emit signals from and/or to the environment through said middle section. The lower section comprises a connection interface configured to connect the functional pole module to a lower pole module of said plurality of pole modules and/or the upper section comprises a connection interface configured to connect the functional pole module to an upper pole module of said plurality of pole modules. The support is provided with multiple brackets, preferably at least three brackets, configured for creating multiple support areas for the multiple functional units.

By arranging the multiple functional units in a housing with a middle section which allows signals to pass through the middle section, the functional units can be well protected. Further, the structure with a support with multiple brackets on which the multiple functional units are arranged allows getting a good coverage of the surroundings. Also, by providing the lower and/or the upper section with a connection interface configured to connect the functional pole module to a lower pole module and/or to an upper pole module, the functional pole module can be easily inserted in the lamp post.

It is noted that both the lower and the upper section may also be provided with a connection interface configured to connect the functional pole module to a lower and upper pole module, e.g. another functional pole module or a cover module. This has the advantage that the functional pole module can be installed at any height within the lamp post. However, in other embodiments, e.g. where the functional pole module is always used as the uppermost module of the lamp post, the upper section may be a closed upper section. In another exemplary embodiment, the lamp post may be attached to a support such as a wall, and the functional pole module may be a floating lowermost module.

Preferably the middle section is at least partially transparent or translucent so that the multiple functional units can receive and/or emit light signals through said middle section, and in particular, when the functional units are camera units, so that a good view of the surroundings can be obtained. In other embodiments, the signals may be different from light signals, e.g. electromagnetic radiation outside of the visible spectrum or sound waves. In that case the middle section may be opaque or transparent or translucent.

Preferably, the multiple functional units comprise any one or more of the following: a camera unit, a laser device, a radar device, a microphone, an antenna, a movement detector, a light emitting device such as an ultraviolet (UV) light or an infrared (IR) light or a light for light fidelity (Li-Fi) communication. More generally, the functional unit may be any kind of sensor means or signal sending and/or receiving means. It is noted that the multiple functional units mounted on the multiple brackets may be the same or different. Also, one or more brackets of the support may not be used, depending on the requirements of the user. Some functional units may emit signals containing information. For example, in case of a laser unit, a laser beam may be projected on the ground, and the laser beam may be controlled such that information is displayed on the ground or in the sky. For example, in case of a microphone, audio or speech information may be emitted.

In a preferred embodiment, the multiple functional units comprise multiple camera units, preferably at least three camera units.

Preferably, the multiple functional units and brackets are arranged such that a coverage over 360° is obtained, as seen in a horizontal plane. When, the functional units are camera units, preferably the camera units are arranged such that a view over 360° is obtained, as seen in a horizontal plane.

Preferably, the multiple support areas are arranged at a substantially equal distance of each other along a peripheral zone around the central axis. For example, three or four camera units may be arranged, each having a horizontal field of view higher than 90°. More preferably, four camera units and four brackets may be arranged at a substantially equal distance of each other along a peripheral zone around the central axis. In that manner, inexpensive camera units having a horizontal field of view between 90° and 115° can be used. It is also possible to use more than four camera units, e.g. five camera units with a smaller horizontal field of view, or to use only two camera units, e.g. two camera units having a field of view of about 180°. It is noted that there may be overlap between the fields of view of adjacent camera units, but this is not required. It is also possible to use multiple camera units which do not cover the entire 360°.

Preferably, the middle section consists of or comprises a tube-like part, e.g. cylindrical part or a prism shaped part. Preferably, the middle section has substantially the same outer perimeter along the central axis. Preferably, the lower section and the upper section have substantially the same outer perimeter as the middle section. For example, the middle section and the lower and upper section may have the same circular or polygonal outer perimeter. Thus, the outer dimension, e.g. the diameter in case of a circular outer perimeter, may be the same for the middle section and the lower and upper section.

Preferably, the middle section comprises a cylindrical part surrounding the multiple functional units. For example, the middle section may be formed as an integral transparent cylindrical casing. Such an embodiment is especially advantageous when light signals need to pass through the middle section, such as is the case when the functional units include camera units.

It is noted that the middle section may comprise any combination of transparent and non transparent parts (or of translucent and non-translucent parts), e.g. a combination of cylindrical transparent and non-transparent parts (or of cylindrical translucent and non-translucent parts).

Depending on the type of signals that need to be received and/or emitted, the middle section may be adapted. For example, when the functional unit is a microphone, a pattern of holes may be arranged in the middle section. In such an embodiment, the middle section could be made of plastic or metal. However, for other functional units, the middle section may be a section with a closed outer wall such that ingress of dirt is avoided. In other embodiments, when the signals are different from light signals, e.g. electromagnetic radiation outside of the visible spectrum or sound waves, the middle section may be opaque or transparent or translucent.

Preferably, the multiple brackets each comprise a hole and a front portion of a functional unit extends through the hole and is fixed with a nut. In that manner the functional units can be easily mounted on the brackets. In alternative embodiments, a functional unit may be fixed by other fixation means such as one or more screws.

Preferably, the upper section is connected to the lower section by means of multiple rods extending in the housing at a distance of the central axis. Such rods extend between the lower and upper section to give mechanical strength to the module. In that manner the weight may be carried at least partially by the rods instead of being carried by the middle section of the housing. Preferably, the rods are made of metal. The rods are preferably solid rods, but may also be hollow rods.

In an exemplary embodiment, there is arranged a rod between each pair of adjacent brackets, preferably such that each rod is arranged at a substantial equal distance of two adjacent brackets of the multiple brackets.

In another embodiment, the upper section is connected to the lower section by means of a single central rod extending along the central axis. Such central rod extends between the lower and upper section to give mechanical strength to the module. In that manner the weight may be carried at least partially by the central rod instead of being carried by the middle section of the housing. Preferably, the rod is made of metal. The central rod is preferably a solid rod or a hollow rod.

If hollow, the multiple rods or the central rod may be used for passing one or more cables from the lower section to the upper section.

Preferably, the lower and upper sections are made of metal and the middle section is made of plastic. In that manner, the lower and upper section and the multiple rods or the single central rod can form a rigid frame.

Preferably, the support is fixed to the lower section and/or to the upper section. In that manner, no fixation provisions have to be made to the middle section, and the middle section can be e.g. a cylindrical or prism-shaped transparent or translucent casing.

Preferably, the support comprises a central portion and the multiple brackets extend from the central portion in the direction of the middle section of the housing. For example, the brackets may extend radially and upwardly. The support, preferably the central portion thereof, may be provided with an electrical plug, e.g. an electrical plug for interconnecting power lines between adjacent modules. In addition or alternatively, one or more electrical plugs, such as a six-pin connector and/or an RJ connector, may be arranged in a floating manner in the housing of the functional pole module for connecting other units. In addition or alternatively, the support, preferably the central portion thereof, may be provided with one or more holes for allowing cables for connecting the multiple functional units to pass through. For example, cables may extend from the functional units through one or more holes to a processing means arranged in another pole module, e.g. a processing pole module as described below, or in a support pole.

In an exemplary embodiment, a bracket has a stepped profile. In an embodiment where the support is fixed to the lower section, the stepped profile may comprise a first upwardly extending portion connected to the central portion, a second portion extending radially in the direction of the middle section, and a third upwardly extending portion to which a functional unit is fixed. Preferably, the third upwardly extending portion is inclined with respect to the central axis for orienting the functional unit at a suitable angle. Depending on the height at which the functional pole module is positioned within the lamp post, the angle may be smaller or larger. In an alternative embodiment, where the support is fixed to the upper section, the stepped profile may comprise a first downwardly extending portion connected to the central portion, a second portion extending radially in the direction of the middle section, and a third downwardly extending portion to which a functional unit is fixed. The brackets may be made of bended sheet metal.

When the functional units are camera units, in most cases it is desirable that the camera units look downwardly. However, for some applications the camera units may be oriented to look upwardly, or to look in a horizontal direction. This can be achieved by orienting the third portion at a suitable angle.

Preferably, each bracket is fixed to the lower section or to the upper section. In that manner a very stable mounting of the functional units can be achieved. For example, the third or second portion of a bracket may be provided with a fixation lip which is fixed to the lower section or upper section using a fixation means such as a screw.

According to a preferred embodiment, the functional pole module further comprises a hollow core arranged in the housing between the lower and upper section, and the multiple brackets and functional units extend through multiple recesses in said hollow core. The hollow core may be used to hide parts of the functional units and the support and/or to hide the connection means, such as cables and electrical plugs, and/or to reduce reflection. To that end the hollow core may have an outer surface which is configured to reduce reflection, and which is preferably black. Optionally, the hollow core may provide additional mechanical strength to the functional pole module; however, typically the mechanical strength of the functional pole module is mainly achieved by the multiple rods or the single central rod. If present, the multiple rods may be arranged between the middle section and the hollow core. Alternatively or in addition, the multiple rods or a part thereof may be arranged inside the hollow core, i.e. the hollow core may also be arranged around at least a part of the multiple rods. If a single central rod is present, it may be arranged in the hollow core.

In an exemplary embodiment, the hollow core may have an outer surface with concave, outwardly protruding parts and convex inwardly protruding parts, wherein the multiple recesses are arranged in the concave, outwardly protruding parts and wherein between each pair of concave, outwardly protruding parts there is a convex inwardly protruding part. Optionally, the multiple rods may be arranged adjacent the convex inwardly protruding parts.

In a preferred embodiment, the plurality of pole modules comprises a processing pole module, such as an image processing pole module. The processing pole module comprises a processing means configured to receive sensed data, e.g. image data, from the multiple functional units, and to process said sensed data. The processing pole module may be formed as a module with an integral core for accommodating the processing means, said integral core including a lower and upper section with a connection interface. The core may be surrounded by a peripheral wall comprising a removable cover. For example, the peripheral wall may comprise a removable cylindrical or prism shaped shell to provide access to the processing means. Further, one or more electrical plugs may be provided in the processing pole module, e.g. an electrical plug for interconnecting power lines for powering one or more light pole modules of the lamp post, and/or one or more electrical plugs for connecting lines to other units.

In a preferred embodiment, the functional units are connected to control means configured for sending control signals to the functional units. Such control means may be provided with communication means capable of receiving control signals for controlling the functional units. For example, for a laser device, control signals may be received including information to be included in the laser beam. Such control means may be provided in the functional pole module or in the processing pole module or in another module.

In a preferred embodiment, the lower section of the functional pole module is provided with an interface formed at an end thereof, said interface being configured for engaging with a complementary interface of a lower pole module. Further, one or more external or internal module connectors may be provided for connecting the complementary interfaces. Preferably, the module connector has a surface shaped to be complementary to a shaped portion formed by the engaged complementary interfaces. Preferably, the internal or external module connector is configured to apply pressure in a first direction when the module connector is tightened against the engaged complementary interfaces. Preferably, the internal or external module connector is configured to convert the pressure applied in the first direction to a clamping pressure in a second direction, the second direction being substantially perpendicular to the first direction.

In a preferred embodiment, the lower section of the functional pole module is provided with a lower round end portion, and is connected to one of the plurality of pole modules through a pole connector comprising a first round connector portion and a second round connector portion which together surround the round end portion of the lower section and an adjacent round end portion of said one pole module. In other embodiments, other connection interfaces may be used, such as connection interfaces with polygonal connector portions. It is noted that a similar embodiment may be provided with internal module connectors instead of external module connectors in order to clamp the functional pole module to the lower pole module below.

In an exemplary embodiment, any adjacent pole modules of the plurality of pole modules may be interconnected through a pole connector comprising a first round connector portion and a second round connector portion which together surround round end portions of the adjacent pole modules. If a support pole is present, the lowest pole module of the plurality of pole modules may be connected to the support pole through a pole connector comprising a first round connector portion and a second round connector portion which together surround a round end portion of the lowest pole module and an adjacent round end portion of the support pole. The pole connector may have an outer diameter which is substantially the same as an outer diameter of the support pole. The support pole and the middle section of the functional pole module may have an outer diameter which is substantially the same. Also the peripheral wall of the processing pole module may have substantially the same outer diameter.

In a preferred embodiment, the processing pole module is arranged below the functional pole module, and the processing pole module has an upper section provided with a round end portion which is connected to the lower round end portion of the functional pole module, and a lower section with a lower round end portion which is connected to another lower pole module of the plurality of pole modules or to a support pole through a pole connector.

In an alternative embodiment, the processing pole module is arranged above the functional pole module, and the processing pole module has a lower section provided with a round end portion which is connected to the upper round end portion of the functional pole module, and an upper section with an upper round end portion which is connected to another higher pole module of the plurality of pole modules or to a cover module through a pole connector.

In other embodiments, additional pole modules could be positioned between the functional pole module and the processing pole module.

In an exemplary embodiment, the lamp post comprises multiple functional pole modules provided one above the other. For example, the lamp post may comprises a first functional pole module with a first coverage, e.g. a first viewing field, and a second functional pole module with a second coverage, e.g. a second viewing field. For example, the second coverage may surround the first viewing field and optionally may partly overlap with the first coverage. In another example, the second coverage may be directed upwardly, and the first coverage may be directed downwardly. The second functional pole module may be arranged directly above the first functional pole module, or a further pole module may be present between the first and the second functional pole module. It is noted that it is also possible to include two functional pole modules having the same or substantially the same coverage in the same lamp post.

In an exemplary embodiment, the plurality of pole modules comprises a lower pole module arranged below the functional pole module and an upper pole module arranged above the functional pole module. Preferably, at least one of the lower and upper pole module is a light pole module.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the plurality of pole modules comprises any one or more of the following: a light pole module comprising a light source, an antenna pole module, and more generally any pole module. The light source included in a light pole module may comprise a plurality of light emitting diodes, e.g. an array of light emitting diodes, which may be arranged on a PCB. Further, a driver for driving the plurality of light emitting diodes, optionally in combination with a dimmer may be integrated in the lamp post in any known manner.

Examples of functional components which may be included in a pole module or in a housing attached to an external surface of a support pole of the lamp post, are any one or more of the following:

- power management circuitry, preferably power management circuitry configured to manage the provision of power to multiple lamp posts, preferably at least three lamp posts, e.g. more than ten lamp posts. In such embodiments power connection cables pass from the pole module through the support pole to other lamp posts, e.g. underground;

- telecommunication circuitry, such as base station circuitry;

- audio system management circuitry;

- a display;

- an antenna;

- WiFi circuitry, wherein an antenna for receiving WiFi signals may be integrated either in the pole module or in a separate antenna module;

- charger circuitry, e.g. phone charger circuitry or vehicle charger circuitry;

- an environmental sensor such as a microphone, or a detector of C0₂, NO_x, smoke, etc., and the associated circuitry;

- a human interface device (HID) and the associated circuitry, e.g. a camera, a loudspeaker, a button, a touch screen, etc.

- repeater circuitry, e.g. a WiFi repeater;

- a radar sensor;

- a sign, such as a publicity banner;

- a water discharge device, such as a shower head, a sprinkler, a water sprayer, etc;

- a trash bin;

- a socket, such as an electrical socket.

According to an exemplary embodiment an intercom interface is provided in or to the support pole. Preferably, the intercom interface is configured to communicate through IP and/or SIP (Session Initiation Protocol). The intercom interface comprises an audio and/or video intercommunication module. This intercom interface may be connected to the processing means.

In an embodiment, the lamp post further comprises a control and communication unit configured for receiving and/or sending data to the multiple functional units. For example, when the functional units comprises a sensing device such as a camera, or a receiving device such as an antenna, the control and communication unit may be configured for obtaining raw data from the functional unit and for outputting said raw data or processed data derived from said raw data, preferably to a remote management subsystem, e.g. a server. In that manner the output data can be further processed and/or analyzed by the remote management system, and optionally appropriate feedback, e.g. an alarm message, may be communicated back to lamp post. In other exemplary embodiments, the obtained raw data or processed data derived from said raw data may be used locally in the lamp post. For example, the obtained raw data or processed data derived from said raw data, may be directly sent to an output means, such as a light device, e.g. a light ring, or to a loudspeaker, or to a display, in order for a suitable output signal to be output, e.g. a lighting of the lighting device according to a predefined configuration, or an audio or sound message. In addition or alternatively, the output means may be receiving a message from a local controller in or near the lamp post, or from the remote management subsystem, wherein the message is based at least partially on the obtained raw data or processed data derived from said raw data. It is noted that a pole module, such as the processing pole module, may be provided with internal storage and/or processing and/or communication means, but in other embodiments storage and/or processing and/or communication means may be provided in another location in the lamp post, and/or outside of the lamp post.

In addition or alternatively, when the multiple functional units comprise an emitting device, the control and communication unit may be configured to receive instructions from a remote server or from another pole module and to control the emitting device to output a signal accordingly.

The invention further relates to a video surveillance system, comprising a plurality of lamp posts and a remote management subsystem configured to receive the raw or processed data from the plurality of lamp posts and/or to send control data for controlling the multiple functional units to the plurality of lamp posts. It is noted that the remote management subsystem may be remote of all lamp posts of the light network, or may be included in or near one of the lamp posts of the light network. According to another aspect, there is provided a functional pole module for use in a lamp post of any one of the above described embodiments. The functional pole module may be provided with any one of the features described above.

According to an exemplary embodiment the plurality of pole modules further comprises an antenna pole module, and the lamp post is further provided with a base station module. The antenna pole module comprises an antenna configured for receiving and emitting cellular data. The base station module comprises a housing and base station circuitry mounted in said housing. The base station circuitry is coupled to the antenna. The base station module may be attached to an external surface of the support pole and may be carried and supported by the support pole. The base station module and the antenna pole module may be used to send raw or processed data sensed by the functional units.

It is noted that the term “supported” as in “the pole module is supported by the support pole” does not imply that the pole module needs to be directly fixed on the support pole; indeed, there may be intermediate pole modules or elements between the support pole and the pole module; the support pole supports the plurality of pole modules which are arranged one above the other.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the support pole is fixed in the ground and the housing of the base station module is at a distance above the ground. It is noted that the housing may also be in contact with the ground as long as it is carried by the support pole.

According to an exemplary embodiment the lamp post comprises a hollow support pole, and the support pole is provided with a removable door providing access to an inner part of said support pole.

In an exemplary embodiment the lamp post comprises a power connection cable passing from a lower end of the support pole to the respective pole modules required to be powered, e.g. to the functional pole module.

According to an exemplary embodiment the plurality of pole modules are pole modules as disclosed in EP 3076073 B1 which is included herein by reference. By using pole module connectors as disclosed in EP 3 076073 B1 with two connector portions which can be clamped around round end parts of the pole modules, a pole module can be rotated around the axial direction of the support pole in the desired position and then fixed by the connector portions. Brief description of the figures

The accompanying drawings are used to illustrate presently preferred non-limiting exemplary embodiments of devices of the present invention. The above and other advantages of the features and objects of the invention will become more apparent and the invention will be better understood from the following detailed description when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

Figure 1 illustrates schematically an exemplary embodiment of a lamp post;

Figure 2 is a schematic perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a camera pole module and an image processing pole module arranged one above the other and connected to each other; Figure 3 is a schematic perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a camera pole module; Figure 4 is a schematic exploded view of the camera pole module of figure 3;

Figures 5A and 5B are schematic exploded views of the lower section, the support, the camera units, the rods, and the hollow core of the camera pole module of figure 3, wherein in figure 5B the support is arranged in the lower section;

Figure 6 is a schematic sectional view of the camera pole module of figure 3;

Figure 7 is similar to the view of figure 2, but with the removable cover of the image processing pole module removed;

Figure 8 is a schematic exploded view of the image processing pole module of figure 7; and Figure 9A and 9B are schematic views of exemplary embodiments with two camera pole modules.

Description of embodiments

Figure 1 illustrates schematically an exemplary embodiment of a lamp post 1000. The lamp post 1000 comprises a support pole 100 and a plurality of pole modules 200, 300, 400, 500 supported by the support pole 100. The plurality of pole modules comprises a camera pole module 200, an optional antenna pole module 300 comprising an antenna 350 configured for receiving and emitting cellular data, a functional pole module 400 with a bracket 410, e.g. another camera pole module with a camera unit 420 fixed to the bracket 410 or a light pole module with a light source 420 fixed to the bracket 410, and an image processing pole module 500. Other functionalities may be included in one or more optional pole modules, see also the list provided above in the summary.

The pole modules 200, 300, 400, 500 may be arranged in any order one above the other along a central axis A of the lamp post, and may be connected to the support pole 100 and to each other in any suitable way, e.g. using pole module connectors 700 as described in EP 3076073 B1 in the name of the applicant. Figure 8 illustrates in detail how the image processing pole module 500 may be connected using pole module connectors 700 each comprising two connector portions 701, 702 which can be clamped around round end parts of adjacent functional pole modules. Such connectors 700 may be used for all pole modules. Using such pole connectors, a pole module 200, 300, 400, 500 can be rotated around the central axis A of the lamp post in a desired position and then fixed by the connector portions 701, 702 and a fixation means 703 for coupling the two connector portions 701, 702 to each other around round end parts of adjacent functional pole modules to be connected. Also the connection between a pole module and the support pole 100 can be done in the way illustrated in figure 8. Each pole module 200, 300, 400 can be mounted in a tight manner to another pole module or to the support pole. In other non-illustrated embodiments, the pole modules may be connected in a different manner, e.g. as described above in the summary, e.g. using internal connector portions instead of external connector portions 701, 702. Further, the pole modules 200, 300, 400, 500 are shown to have a cylindrical outer surface but the skilled person understands that the pole modules may have a different shape, e.g. a prism shaped outer surface.

Figure 2 illustrates in detail a camera pole module 200 connected to an image processing pole module 500, and figures 3, 4, 5 A, 5B and 6 illustrate in detail the camera pole module 200. The camera pole module 200 comprises a housing 210, 220, 230, a support 240 arranged in the housing 210, 220, 230, and multiple camera units 250, here four camera units 250 provided on the support 240. The housing comprises a lower section 210, a middle section 220 and an upper section 230. The middle section 220 is at least partially transparent or translucent so that the multiple camera units 250 can image the environment through said middle section 220. The middle section 220 is for example an integral entirely transparent cylindrical casing, see figure 4. The lower section 210 comprises a connection interface configured to connect the camera pole module 200 to a lower pole module, e.g. to the image processing pole module 500 as illustrated in figure 2. The support 240 is provided with multiple brackets 245, here four brackets 250, for supporting the multiple camera units 250. The multiple brackets 245 are configured for creating multiple support areas for the multiple camera units 250.

The upper, middle and lower sections 210, 220, 230 are connected in a tight manner, and the upper and lower section 230, 210 can be connected in a tight manner to a lower and upper section of an adjacent pole module, respectively. It is noted that the upper section 230 may also be closed by a cap 800 mounted in a tight manner on the upper section 230 as illustrated in figures 1 and 2.

By arranging the multiple camera units 250 in a housing with a transparent middle section 220, the camera units 250 are well protected, so that the camera units 250 itself may be inexpensive camera units 250, e.g. indoor or outdoor camera units 250 with a limited horizontal field of view e.g. between 90° and 115°. The camera unit 250 may comprise a housing 255 with a first sensing end 251 for receiving image data from the environment and a second end 252 for outputting the sensed data, e.g. via a cable 253, to a processing means, see figure 5B. The first sensing end 251 may be provided with a screw thread 254 so that the first end 251 may be fixed in an opening using a nut 256, see figure 5B and figure 4. Further, the support 240 with multiple brackets 245 on which the multiple camera units 250 are arranged allows getting a good view of the surroundings.

Preferably, the multiple camera units 250 and brackets 245 are arranged such that a view over 360° is obtained, as seen in a horizontal plane. Here, the multiple support areas are arranged at a substantially equal distance of each other along a peripheral zone around the central axis A. Each camera units 250 has a horizontal field of view higher than 90°, and the four camera units 250 and four brackets 245 are arranged at a substantially equal distance of each other along a peripheral zone around the central axis A.

Each bracket 245 comprises a hole 246 and the first end 251 of a camera unit 250 extends through the hole 246 and is fixed with a nut 256. In that manner the camera units 250 can be easily mounted on the brackets 245. The support 240 comprises a central portion 241 and the multiple brackets 245 extend from the central portion 241 in the direction of the middle section 220. The brackets 245 extend radially and upwardly. The central portion 241 is provided with a connection plug 290, see figure 6. In a similar manner an electrical connection plug 590 may be provided in a processing pole module 500, see figure 7 which is discussed below. These connection plugs 290, 590 may be connected to power lines running from the support pole or the lowest pole module through the lamp post to the pole modules that need to be fed, typically at least to one or more light pole modules of the lamp post. The connection plug 290 allows for a convenient connection of the power lines between the camera pole module 200 and an adjacent pole module, here pole module 500. The electrical plug 290 may be e.g. a 9-pin connector. In addition, further plugs and lines (not shown) may be provided for connecting other units. For example, an additional 6-pin plug for connecting non-light lines and/or an RJ45 plug may be provided. Such additional connectors may be floating in the housing 210, 220, 230. Further, cables 253 of the multiple camera units 250 may pass through one or more holes 249 in the central portion 241 in order to be connected to the processing means 550 of the image processing module 500.

The bracket 245 has a stepped profile comprising a first upwardly extending portion 245a connected to the central portion 241, a second portion 245b extending radially in the direction of the middle section 220, and a third upwardly extending portion 245c to which a camera unit 250 is fixed. Preferably, the third upwardly extending portion 245c is inclined with respect to the central axis A for orienting the camera unit 250 at a suitable angle. Depending on the height at which the camera pole module 200 is positioned within the lamp post, the angle may be smaller or larger. In most cases it is desirable that the camera units 250 look downwardly. However, for some applications the camera units 250 may be oriented to look upwardly, or to look in a horizontal direction. This can be achieved by orienting the third portion 245c at a suitable angle. Each bracket 245 is fixed to the lower section 210. In that manner a very stable mounting of the camera units 250 can be achieved. Here, the third portion 245c of each bracket 245 is provided with a fixation lip 247 which is fixed to the lower section 210 using a fixation means such as a screw (not shown) which cooperates with a bore hole in the lower section 210.

The upper section 230 is connected to the lower section 210 by means of multiple rods 260 extending in the housing at a distance of the central axis A. Such rods 260 extend between the lower and upper section 210, 230 to give mechanical strength to the camera pole module 200. The rods 260 may be solid or hollow rods, and are preferably made of metal. In the illustrated example, a rod 260 is arranged between each pair of adjacent brackets 245, at a substantial equal distance of the two adjacent brackets 245. Preferably, the lower and upper sections 210, 230 are made of metal and the middle section 220 is made of transparent plastic.

The support 240 is fixed to the lower section 210. In that manner, no fixation provisions have to be made to the middle section 220.

The camera pole module 200 further comprises a hollow core 270 arranged in the housing between the lower and upper section 210, 230, and the multiple brackets 245 and camera units 250 extend through multiple recesses 271 in the hollow core 270. The hollow core 270 hides parts of the camera units 250 and the support 240 as well as the connection means, such as cables and electrical plugs. Also, the rods 260 may have a black outer surface. The hollow core 270 may have an outer surface which is configured to reduce reflection, and which is preferably black. The multiple rods 260 are arranged between the middle section 220 and the hollow core 270. The hollow core 270 has a peripheral wall with concave, outwardly protruding parts 272 and convex inwardly protruding parts 273, and the multiple recesses 271 are arranged in the concave, outwardly protruding parts 272. Between each pair of concave, outwardly protruding parts 272 there is a convex inwardly protruding part 273.

In a preferred embodiment, the lower section 210 of the camera pole module 200 is provided with a lower round end portion 211, and is connected to one of the plurality of pole modules through a pole connector 700 comprising a first round connector portion 701 and a second round connector portion 702 which together surround the round end portion 211 of the lower section 210 and an adjacent round end portion of said one pole module. By providing the lower section 210 with a connection interface configured to connect the camera pole module 200 to a lower pole module, the camera pole module 200 can be easily inserted in the lamp post. Similarly, the upper section 230 is provided with a connection interface in the form of an upper round end portion 231 configured to connect the camera pole module 200 to an upper pole module, e.g. another camera pole module 200 or a cover module. The pole connector 700 may have an outer diameter which is substantially the same as an outer diameter of the support pole 100. The support pole 100 and the middle section 220 of the camera pole module 200 may have an outer diameter which is substantially the same. In the case of prism-shaped pole modules, the connector may have a matching prism shaped outer surface.

Figures 7 and 8 illustrate in detail an image processing pole module 500. The image processing pole module 500 comprises a processing means 550 configured to receive image data from the multiple camera units 250, and to process said image data. The image processing pole module 550 may be formed as a module with an integral core 530 for accommodating the processing means, said integral core including a lower and upper section similar to the lower and upper section 210, 230 of the camera pole module. The core 530 may be surrounded by a peripheral wall 510, 520 comprising a removable cover 510 (not shown in figure 7), e.g. shaped as a removable cylindrical shell, to provide access to the processing means 550. The peripheral wall 510, 520 of the image processing pole module may have substantially the same outer diameter as the support pole 100 and the middle section 220 of the camera pole module 200.

The image processing pole module 500 may be arranged below the camera pole module 200, as shown in figures 2, 7 and 8. The image processing pole module 500 has a core 530 with an upper section provided with a round end portion 531 which is connected to the lower round end portion 211 of the camera pole module 200, and with a lower section with a lower round end portion 511 which is connected to another lower pole module or to a support pole through a pole connector.

An electrical connection plug 590 may be provided in the image processing pole module 500. This connection plug 590 may be connected to power lines running from the support pole or the lowest pole module through the lamp post to the pole modules that need to be fed, typically at least to one or more light pole modules of the lamp post. The connection plug 590 allows for a convenient connection of the power lines between the image processing pole module 500 and a lower pole module. The electrical plug 590 may be e.g. a 9-pin connector. In addition, further plugs and lines (not shown) may be provided for providing power to other units, such as to the image processing means 550. For example, an additional 6-pin plug for connecting non-light lines and/or an RJ45 plug may be provided. Such additional connectors may be floating in the housing 510, 520, 530.

Figures 9A and 9B illustrate an exemplary embodiment with multiple camera pole modules 200, 200’ provided one above the other. For example, as illustrated in figure 9A, the lamp post may comprises a first camera pole module 200 with a first viewing field FI, and a second camera pole module 200’ with a second viewing field F2 mounted above the first camera pole module 200. For example, the second viewing field F2 may surround the first viewing field FI and optionally may partly overlap with the first viewing field FI. In another example, illustrated in figure 9B, the second viewing field F2 may be directed upwardly, and the first viewing field FI may be directed downwardly. The second camera pole module 200’ may be arranged directly above the first camera pole module 200, as in figure 9B, or a further pole module 500 may be present between the first and the second camera pole module 200, 200’. The further pole module 500 may be a processing module 500, e.g. an image processing pole module. It is noted that such processing pole module 500 may be arranged below a functional pole module 200, 200’, and/or above a functional pole module 200, 200’, and/or in between two functional pole modules 200, 200’.

Although the invention has been illustrated above for a camera pole module 200, 200’, the skilled person will understand that the modules 200, 200’ may also be used for implementing other functionalities. Indeed, instead of camera units 250 other functional units, such as a laser device, a radar device, a microphone, an antenna, a movement detector, a light emitting device, such as an ultraviolet (UV) light or an infrared (IR) light or a light for light fidelity (Li-Fi) communication, etc. may be included in a module 200, 200’. More generally, the functional unit may be any kind of sensor means or signal sending and/or receiving means. It is noted that the functional units mounted on the multiple brackets 245 may be the same or different. Also, one or more brackets 245 of the support 240 may not be used, depending on the requirements of the customer.

Also, the image processing pole module 500 may be a general processing pole module comprising a processing means 550 configured to receive and/or send data from/to the multiple functional units 250, and to process data. The processing pole module 550 may be formed as a module with an integral core 530 for accommodating the processing means, said integral core including a lower and upper section similar to the lower and upper section 210, 230 of the camera pole module.

As illustrated in figure 1 , the lamp post may further comprise a base station module 600 comprising a housing 610 and base station circuitry 620 mounted in said housing 610. The base station circuitry 620 is coupled to the antenna 350, see reference 710, and to a power supply via a power connection cable 720 passing from a lower end of the support pole 100 to the base station circuitry 620. The base station module 600 is attached to an external surface of the support pole 100 and the weight thereof is carried by the support pole 100. The support pole 100 may be fixed in the ground G and the housing of the base station module 600 may be at a distance d above the ground G. The support pole 100 is hollow, and is provided with a removable door 120 providing access to an inner part of said support pole 100, see figure 1. The door 120 may be arranged substantially opposite to the base station module 600, so that an operator can access the interior of the support pole and optionally the interior of the base station module 600 through the door 120.

As illustrated in figure 1 , the lamp post may further comprise an antenna pole module 300 with an antenna 350. The antenna 350 may be a directional antenna with a limited angular range, e.g. a range covering between 90° and 180°. The antenna pole module 300 has a housing 310, 320 which is arranged in line with the support pole 100. Preferably, the antenna pole module 300 is rotatable around the central axis A of the support pole 100, such that said antenna pole module 300 is orientable for orienting the directionality of the receiving and emitting of the antenna 350. The antenna pole module 300 may comprise a central portion including a passage for cables and wires and two cover portions 310, 320. The antenna 350 may be arranged against a face of the central portion and covered by a first cover 310 in a non-metallic material e.g. a plastic material. The central portion and the second cover 320 may be made of a metallic material to enhance the rigidity of the antenna pole module 300. Optionally, multiple antenna pole modules 300 may be included to increase the covered range.

It is further noted that in embodiments of the invention base station functionalities and/or other functionalities may be either included in a module like base station module 600 fixed to the support pole, or in one or more pole modules supported by the support pole 100 and aligned with the axial direction of the support pole 100. To that end such a module may have a larger diameter than the diameter of the support pole 100.

Embodiments of the invention also relate to a video surveillance system comprising a plurality of lamp posts 1000 according to any one of the previous embodiments, and a remote management subsystem 2000 (see figure 1) configured to receive the raw or processed data from the plurality of lamp posts 1000 and/or to send audio and/or video and/or alarm data to said plurality of lamp posts 1000, e.g. data to be output by an intercom interface. When the lamp posts are located near a parking, the remote management subsystem 2000 may be configured to extract useful information, such as parking space information or traffic information from the received data. Also when certain events are derived from the received data, the remote management subsystem 2000 may send e.g. alarm messages to the lamp post or to another server in reaction to the detection of certain events. When an alarm message is sent to a lamp post 1000, the lamp post 1000 may output an alarm, e.g. an audio alarm, a light alarm (e.g. red light), a video alarm, etc. Whilst the principles of the invention have been set out above in connection with specific embodiments, it is to be understood that this description is merely made by way of example and not as a limitation of the scope of protection which is determined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A lamp post (1000) comprising a plurality of pole modules (200, 300, 400) arranged one above the other along a central axis (A) of the lamp post, said plurality of pole modules comprising a functional pole module (200) for receiving and/or emitting signals; said functional pole module comprising:

- a housing comprising a lower section (210), a middle section (220) and an upper section (230);

- a support (240) arranged in said housing and configured for supporting multiple functional units which are configured for receiving and/or emitting signals;

- wherein the lower section (210) comprises a connection interface configured to connect the functional pole module to a lower pole module of said plurality of pole modules; and/or wherein the upper section comprises a connection interface configured to connect the functional pole module to an upper pole module of said plurality of pole modules;

- wherein the support (240) is provided with multiple brackets, preferably at least three brackets (245), configured for creating multiple support areas for the multiple functional units;

- wherein the middle section (220) is configured so that the multiple functional units can receive and/or emit signals from and/or to the environment through said middle section.

2. The lamp post of claim 1, wherein the middle section (220) is at least partially transparent or translucent so that the multiple functional units can receive and/or emit light signals through said middle section.

3. The lamp post of claim 1 or 2, wherein the multiple functional units comprise any one or more of the following: a camera unit, a laser device, a radar device, a microphone, an antenna, a movement detector, a light emitting device.

4. The lamp post of any preceding claim, wherein the multiple functional units comprise multiple camera units, preferably at least three camera units (250).

5. The lamp post of any preceding claim, wherein the multiple functional units and brackets are arranged such that coverage over substantially 360° is obtained in a horizontal plane.

6. The lamp post of any preceding claim, wherein the multiple support areas are arranged at a substantially equal distance of each other along a peripheral zone around the central axis (A).

7. The lamp post of any preceding claim, wherein the multiple functional units comprise four camera units arranged on four brackets of the support at a substantially equal distance of each other along a peripheral zone around the central axis (A).

8. The lamp post of any preceding claim, wherein the middle section (220) consists of a cylindrical or prism shaped part surrounding the multiple functional units.

9. The lamp post of any preceding claim, wherein the multiple brackets (245) each comprise a hole (246) and wherein a front portion of a functional unit extends through said hole and is fixed with a nut (251).

10. The lamp post of any preceding claim, wherein the upper section (230) is connected to the lower section (210) by means of multiple rods (260) extending in said housing at a distance of the central axis (A).

11. The lamp post of the preceding claim, wherein each rod (260) is arranged at a substantial equal distance of two adjacent brackets (245) of said multiple brackets.

12. The lamp post of any preceding claim, wherein the support (240) is fixed to the lower section and/or to the upper section.

13. The lamp post of any preceding claim, wherein the support (240) comprises a central portion (241) and wherein the multiple brackets (245) extend from the central portion in the direction of the middle section of the housing.

14. The lamp post of the preceding claim, wherein the central portion (241) is provided with an electrical plug (290) and/or with one or more holes for allowing cables to pass through.

15. The lamp post of claim 13 or 14, wherein each bracket has a stepped profile comprising a first upwardly extending portion (245a) connected to the central portion, a second portion (245b) extending radially in the direction of the middle section, and a third upwardly extending portion (245c) to which a functional unit is fixed, said third upwardly extending portion being preferably inclined with respect to the central axis (A) for orienting the functional unit at a suitable angle.

16. The lamp post according to any preceding claim, wherein each bracket is fixed (247) to the lower section.

17. The lamp post according to any preceding claim, further comprising a hollow core (270) arranged in said housing between said lower and upper section, wherein the multiple brackets and functional units extend through multiple recesses (271) in said hollow core.

18. The lamp post of claim 10 and 17, wherein the multiple rods are arranged between the middle section and the hollow core.

19. The lamp post of claim 17 or 18, wherein the hollow core has an outer surface which is configured to reduce reflection, and which is preferably black.

20. The lamp post according to any preceding claim, wherein the plurality of pole modules comprises a processing pole module (500), said processing pole module comprising a processing means (550) configured to receive sensed data from the multiple functional units, and to process said sensed data.

21. The lamp post according to any preceding claim, wherein the lower section (210) of the functional pole module is provided with a lower round end portion (211), and is connected to one of the plurality of pole modules through a pole connector (700) comprising a first round connector portion and a second round connector portion which together surround the round end portion (211) of the lower section and an adjacent round end portion of said one pole module.

22. The lamp post of claim 20 and 21, wherein the processing pole module (500) is arranged below the functional pole module, and wherein the processing pole module has an upper section (530) provided with a round end portion (531) which is connected to the lower round end portion (211) of the functional pole module, and a lower section (510) with a lower round end portion (511) which is connected to another lower pole module of the plurality of pole modules through a pole connector (700).

23. The lamp post of any preceding claim, wherein the lower and upper sections are made of metal and the middle section is made of plastic.

24. The lamp post of any preceding claim, further comprising a second functional pole module arranged above the functional pole module, said second functional pole module comprising multiple functional units, preferably at least three functional units (250), arranged in a housing, wherein the second functional pole module has a second coverage which is different from the coverage of the functional pole module.

25. The lamp post of any preceding claim, wherein the plurality of pole modules comprises a light pole module.

26. The lamp post according to any preceding claim, wherein the lamp post further comprises a control and communication unit configured sending and/or receiving data to/from the multiple functional units.

27. The lamp post of claim 26, wherein the control and communication unit is configured for obtaining raw data from the multiple functional units and for outputting said raw data or processed data derived from said raw data, preferably to a remote management subsystem.

28. The lamp post according to claim 26 or 27, wherein the control and communication unit is configured for sending control data to the multiple functional units, wherein optionally the control data is received from a remote management subsystem or from another pole module.

29. The lamp post according to any preceding claim, wherein the middle section, the upper section and the lower section have substantially the same outer perimeter.

30. The lamp post of any preceding claim, wherein the plurality of pole modules comprises a lower pole module arranged below the functional pole module and an upper pole module arranged above the functional pole module.

31. Video surveillance system, comprising a plurality of lamp posts according to claim 26 and a remote management subsystem (2000) configured to receive the raw or processed data from the plurality of lamp posts and/or to send control data for controlling said multiple functional units to said plurality of lamp posts.

32. Functional pole module for use in a lamp post of any one of the claims 1-30.