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(11) | EP 3 825 992 A1 |
| (12) | EUROPEAN PATENT APPLICATION |
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| (54) | A MULTIMEDIA TOTEM |
| (57) A communication totem (1; 101) comprising: - two support columns (10), arranged in an erect position and flanked to one another at a predetermined distance; - a bearing structure (50) fixed to said columns (10) so as to extend between said columns (10) at a predetermined distance from the ground to define an underlying passage section; - at least one screen (60; 60a), supported by said bearing structure (50) and connected to the bearing structure (50) by a connection system (70) so as to be movable between a closing configuration, in which two opposite lateral edges (61) of said screen (60; 60a) face a respective column (10) of said columns (10) and a lower edge (62) of the screen (60; 60a) is distanced away from the ground, and an opening configuration, wherein the bearing structure (50) has a box configuration internally defining a containment volume (V) containing at least one ladder (51; 151) which can be used by an operator to access the antenna module (40). |
[0001] The present invention relates to a column for the delivery of information and/or services and a totem for the communication in various contexts, such as for example urban, commercial, corporate and condominium ones.
[0002] In the urban scenery, the need to be able to provide quick and efficient access to information and services is strongly felt.
[0003] This problem is particularly important for tourists and visitors who may not be familiar with urban mobility, activities and more generally with any type of information and/or service concerning the city in which they are.
[0004] However, it could also be useful for residents to have up-to-date information in particular on events and shows, or to have convenient access to some services such as the delivery of tickets for access to accommodation facilities or a means of transport.
[0005] Also in more circumscribed sceneries, such as the corporate or condominium ones, it may be useful to a have a means that allows a quick and efficient dissemination of news and information.
[0006] In this context, it is known to set up information points within the urban, corporate or condominium area, where it is possible to collect information or access services.
[0007] Said information points can be created by means of automatic apparatuses having graphical interfaces with which a user can interact in order to receive information and/or services.
[0008] However, known apparatuses have disadvantages and defects related particularly to the structure thereof which is very delicate and easily subject to breakage.
[0009] In particular, an example of such apparatuses is represented by the columns for the delivery of information and/or services, such as for example parking meters, which are typically made in monolithic structures.
[0010] Due to the weight of said structures, it is necessary to use machinery suitable for transport, making the transport and installation steps more expensive.
[0011] Furthermore, should a failure occur in the apparatus, it would be necessary to replace the entire apparatus.
[0012] Similarly, if the apparatus were supposed to be integrated with a new device, it would be very difficult to carry out this integration without having to replace the entire apparatus with a more modern one.
[0013] A further example is represented by communication totems, they are subject to deterioration processes caused by the fact of presenting structures that are typically covered with metal panels that are not perfectly insulated and which are therefore not able to cope with the infiltration of humidity and dirt.
[0014] Furthermore, said totems have a poorly aerodynamic conformation, offering a too large surface to the action of the wind, making the use of massive and expensive bases inevitable.
[0015] In this context, the technical task of the present invention is therefore to make available a column for the delivery of information and/or services and a communication totem that is capable of overcoming the drawbacks emerging from the known art.
[0016] The object of the present invention is therefore to make available a column for the delivery of information and/or services and a communication totem resistant to deterioration processes and mechanical stresses caused by the action of atmospheric agents.
[0017] A further object of the present invention is to make available a column for the delivery of information and/or services and a communication totem that are easily transportable, installable and maintainable.
[0018] A further object of the present invention is to make available a column for the delivery of information and/or services and a communication totem which are more versatile in relation to the context in which they operate, with the possibility of being integrated with auxiliary devices.
[0019] The specified technical task and the specified object are substantially attained by a column for the delivery of information and/or services and a communication totem comprising the technical characteristics set out in one or more of the appended claims.
[0020] In accordance with an aspect of the invention, the column for the delivery of information and/or services substantially comprises a lower rest module, a communication module and an antenna module.
[0021] Thanks to the modular structure thereof, said column facilitates transport, installation and maintenance operations.
[0022] Furthermore, said column makes the integration with new devices less onerous, allowing new auxiliary devices to be housed in suitable internal volumes. It is also particularly easy to replace the existing devices.
[0023] Furthermore, the specified technical task and the specified object are substantially attained by a communication totem comprising at least one of said columns for the delivery of information and/or services.
[0024] Thanks to the lower rest modules, made of cement resin, the totem has an optimal resistance so as to cope with mechanical stress and deterioration caused by the atmospheric agents.
[0026] Further characteristics and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent from the approximate and thus non-limiting description of an embodiment of a column for the delivery of information and/or services and a totem in accordance with the present invention.
[0027] This description will be set out below with reference to the appended drawings, which are provided solely for illustrative and therefore non-limiting purposes, in which:
- Figure 1 is a perspective view of a column for the delivery of information and/or services in accordance with the present invention;
- Figure 2 is a front view of the column for the delivery of information and/or services in accordance with the present invention;
- Figure 3 is a side view of the column for the delivery of information and/or services in accordance with the present invention;
- Figure 4 is a view of a detail of the column for the delivery of information and/or services in accordance with the present invention;
- Figure 5 is a perspective view of a communication totem in accordance with the present invention;
- Figure 6 is a front view of the communication totem in accordance with the present invention;
- Figure 7 is a side view of the communication totem in accordance with the present invention;
- Figure 8 is a perspective view of the communication totem in an opening configuration;
- Figure 9 is a top perspective view of a communication totem according to an alternative version, in a closing configuration;
- Figure 10 is a view like that of Figure 9, showing the communication totem in a partial opening configuration;
- Figure 11 is a view like that of Figure 9, showing the communication totem in an opening configuration;
- Figures 12 to 14 show the communication totem of Figure 9, in the opening configuration, with an operator who is about to carry out maintenance operations.
[0028] With reference to the appended figures, 10 indicates in its entirety a column for the delivery of information and/or services which, for simplicity of description, will be referred to below as column 10.
[0029] The column 10 mainly comprises a lower rest module 20, a communication module 30 and an antenna module 40.
[0030] Furthermore, the column 10 comprises a process and memory unit (not shown in the appended figures) configured to manage the electronic devices integrated in the column 10, as will be further explained in the description.
[0031] The modules 20, 30, 40 are stacked or stackable on one another to define a configuration of the column 10 having a vertical main extension direction. In particular, the modules 20, 30, 40 are reversibly connectable to one another by means of respective connection interfaces defining intended coupling surfaces 11.
[0032] In other words, each module 20, 30, 40 comprises at least one connection interface, arranged in a respective end thereof, adapted to allow the reversible connection of the module 20, 30, 40 to an adjacent module 20, 30, 40.
[0033] Specifically, the intended coupling surfaces 11 are parallel to one another to realise a coupling of different modules and/or according to different combinations.
[0034] Furthermore, said programmed coupling surfaces 11 can be made in such a way as to be inclined with respect to a horizontal rest surface, as visible in Fig.1.
[0035] According to the preferred embodiment, shown in Fig.1, the communication module 30 is interposed between the lower rest module 20 and the antenna module 40.
[0037] Preferably, the modules 20, 30, 40 are stackable so that the external casing of a module 20, 30, 40 defines an extension, with no interruptions or steps, of the external casing of an adjacent module.
[0038] Functionally, the lower rest module 20 is the module of the column 10 suitable for stably anchoring the column to the ground.
[0039] In particular, the lower rest module 20 is anchored to the ground directly or by means of a base, not shown in the appended figures.
[0041] Advantageously, this material allows the lower rest module 20 not to be compromised and deteriorated by the atmospheric agents, avoiding in particular the infiltration of humidity and dirt.
[0042] Furthermore, this material makes the lower rest module 20 suitable for guaranteeing stability and structural resistance to the column 10.
[0043] Furthermore, the use of this material permits to use for the column 10 the cleaning systems typically used when cleaning the city, such as for example the water pressure jet.
[0044] The lower rest module 20 can comprise sensors which allow detecting the height of the water in case of floods in order to generate an alarm and to protect the electronic devices from short circuits. In this case, in fact, the power supply to the process and memory unit is disconnected.
[0045] The lower rest module 20 is underlying the communication module 30, to which it is fixed stably by means of the respective intended coupling surfaces 11.
[0047] Functionally, the communication module 30 is the module of the column 10 that is configured for direct interfacing with the users.
[0048] In particular, the communication module 30 has an input and/or output interface 31 respectively for entering and displaying information exchanged with a user, where this input and/or output interface 31 is connected to the process and memory unit.
[0049] Preferably, the input and/or output interface 31 comprises a screen 32 provided with touch-screen properties and/or equipped with a keyboard 33 for manual entering of information.
[0050] Furthermore, this input and/or output interface 31 can comprise an electro-acoustic transducer (not shown in the appended figures), for example a loudspeaker and/or microphone, to further facilitate the entering and/or the delivery of information.
[0051] Furthermore, the input and/or output interface 31 can comprise an emergency call device, in particular a button.
[0052] In other words, the communication module 30 allows the user to directly find information and services.
[0053] For example, if the column 10 is installed in an urban area, the user can receive information such as interactive maps of the urban area, indications regarding places of interest and other information.
[0054] Furthermore, the communication module 30 can comprise an apparatus for reading hardware devices 34, preferably smart cards, arranged for example at the input and/or output interface.
[0056] In this way, the user will have the possibility, for example, to be able to pay for certain services offered by the column 10.
[0057] Furthermore, the communication module 30 can comprise a printing unit (not visible in the appended figures), preferably arranged at the input and/or output interface 31, connected to the process and memory unit. This printing unit allows, for example, printing tickets to make use of public services, such as transport or buildings like museums, or printing parking tickets.
[0058] Furthermore, the communication module 30 can comprise a service compartment 35, which is preferably formed in a position underlying the input and/or output interface 31.
[0059] In this service compartment 35 medical instrumentation, preferably first aid instrumentation, can be installed and/or arranged.
[0060] For example, a defibrillator can be installed in the service compartment 35. In the service compartment 35 there may be a call element to be used to ask for help in case of an emergency, for example a call button to contact the police, the carabinieri, the fire brigade or another subject capable of providing help.
[0061] The service compartment 35 has a closing door 36.Said closing door 36 can be operated on site or remotely.
[0062] Furthermore, the communication module has internal volumes (not shown in the appended figures) therein, which internal volumes are designed for the housing and the installation of auxiliary devices.
[0063] In this way, it is possible to integrate the column 10 with new devices that allow the column 10 to deliver new services and functions without necessarily having to replace the entire column 10.
[0065] Structurally, the antenna module 40 is at least partially, preferably entirely, made of carbon or glass fibre or kevlar.
[0066] Advantageously, thanks to said materials, the antenna module 40 is particularly lightweight and therefore suitable for further facilitating the transport, installation and maintenance operations.
[0067] Furthermore, the limited weight allows the antenna module 40 not to excessively weigh on the structure of the column 10.
[0068] Furthermore, the antenna module 40 can be made in various shapes and different sizes, particularly with reference to the longitudinal size thereof. Preferably, the antenna module 40 is made in two formats.
[0069] In an embodiment, in accordance with a first format, the antenna module 40 has a longitudinal size comprised between 1000 mm and 1800 mm, preferably 1630 mm.
[0070] In an alternative embodiment, corresponding to a second format, the antenna module 40 has a longitudinal size comprised between 1800 mm and 3500 mm, preferably 2450 mm.
[0071] In this way, the column 10 is more easily integrated into the urban setting, since a certain format of the antenna module 40 can be selected in such a way that it improves the visual impact of the column 10, integrating it in the best possible way into the surrounding landscape.
[0072] Functionally, the antenna module 40 provides further services, in addition to the aforesaid services delivered by the communication module 30.
[0073] In particular, the antenna module 40 internally houses at least one transceiver device (not shown in the appended figures), connected to the process and memory unit.
[0074] According to a preferred embodiment, the at least one transceiver device is of the radio transceiver type.
[0075] According to a preferred and non-limiting embodiment, the antenna module 40 is configured to perform at least one of the following functions:
- radio station for 5g coverage, serving in particular the mobile terminals of the users of a certain geographical area in which column 10 is inserted.
- Wireless Access Point configured to provide a user with a Wi-Fi connection through its own terminal to a telecommunication network;
- allow the user to exploit the Internet connection using the communication module 30.
[0076] Furthermore, the radio transceiver device, being installed in the antenna module 40, is located at a height which allows excellent signal transmission, since the coverage of the area is increased and the interference due to the presence of obstacles is decreased.
[0077] The signal transmission is also facilitated by the materials used to make the antenna module 40.
[0078] Furthermore, the height at which the radio transceiver device is placed reduces the impact of the electromagnetic waves towards the users, in particular near the column 10 where the power is higher.
[0079] Finally, the elongated shape of the column 10, and in particular of the antenna module 40, allows the presence of the column 10 to be easily signalled, facilitating the identification thereof.
[0080] Furthermore, further devices and apparatuses can be integrated into the antenna module 40, which devices and apparatuses are managed and/or controlled by the process and memory unit.
[0081] In particular, the antenna module 40 can integrate an optoelectronic device 41, configured to assume a plurality of different colours associated to different statuses of the column 10.
[0082] For example, said optoelectronic device 41 can assume a green colour corresponding to a nominal operating status of the column 10 and assume a red colour corresponding to a malfunctioning status of the column 10.
[0083] According to a further use, the optoelectronic device 41 is configured to assume a plurality of colours which are different and/or suitable to identify and signal specific situations to the users, such as situations of imminent danger.
[0084] Furthermore, the antenna module 40 can be integrated with an electro-acoustic transducer (not visible in the appended figures), for example a loudspeaker.
[0085] Said electro-acoustic transducer can be used, for example, to broadcast public notices and to diffuse music.
[0086] Furthermore, the antenna module 40 can be integrated with sensors adapted to detect atmospheric conditions, such as sensors for measuring temperature, sensors for measuring humidity, sensors for measuring wind speed and direction, sensors for measuring the atmospheric pressure and sensors for measuring the impacts.
[0087] The data collected by these sensors are sent to the process and memory unit in order to be presented to the user by means of the input and/or output interface 31 or to be recorded.
[0088] Furthermore, the antenna module 40 can have a motion sensor adapted to detect and record people passing by within an area surrounding the column 10.
[0089] Furthermore, the antenna module 40 can comprise a camera (not shown in the appended figures), connected to the process and memory unit, suitable for video surveillance use.
[0092] Advantageously, thanks to this lighting device 44, the column 10 operates as a streetlamp, illuminating the area surrounding the column 10.
[0093] Furthermore, thanks to this public lighting device 44, the column 10 is identifiable in poor visibility conditions.
[0094] Finally, according to an embodiment, the antenna module 40 is installed above the communication module 30 so as to be rotationally movable along its own longitudinal extension axis, so as to be orientable in a given direction.
[0095] Advantageously, the modular structure allows facilitating the transport and the installation of the column 10.
[0096] Furthermore, in the event of a fault or if routine maintenance interventions need to be carried out, it is possible to replace/act only on specific modules 20, 30, 40 without having to intervene on the entire column 10. The present invention also relates to a communication totem 1.
[0097] This totem 1, the preferred embodiment of which is shown in Fig.5, substantially comprises two columns 10, a bearing structure 50 and at least one advertising screen 60.
[0098] The columns 10 are arranged in an erect position and flanked to one another at a predetermined distance.
[0101] According to further embodiments, the columns 10, on the other hand, are devoid of one or more of the aforesaid devices and are limited to preserving the modular structure, thus presenting the advantages set out above.
[0102] In particular, the anchoring solution produced by the lower rest modules 20 prevents humidity and dirt from rising.
[0103] Moreover, thanks to the structure of the columns 10, the totem 1 can be easily anchored to the flooring, even in cases where it is inclined and/or disconnected.
[0104] The bearing structure 50 is fixed to the columns 10 so as to extend between the columns 10 at a predetermined distance from the ground to define an underlying passage section.
[0105] The at least one advertising screen 60 is mounted on the bearing structure 50, so that two opposite lateral edges 61 of the advertising screen 60 face a respective column 10.
[0106] In particular, the two columns 10 can have respective shapes to at least partially house the at least one advertising screen 60, in particular the lateral edges 61.
[0107] Furthermore, the advertising screen 60 is mounted on the bearing structure 50 so that a lower edge 62 of the advertising screen is distanced away from the ground.
[0108] Advantageously, thanks to this configuration, the advertising screen 60 is arranged away from the ground, strongly limiting the problems related to the infiltration of humidity and dirt.
[0109] Advantageously, furthermore, the conformation of the totem 1 is such as to prevent animals from possibly climbing up, avoiding damages to the structure and in particular to the advertising screen 60.
[0110] Finally, by defining a passage section underlying the advertising screen 60, the totem 1 reduces the structural problems related to the sail effect, since the surface exposed to the wind is smaller.
[0114] In accordance with a first embodiment, the advertising screen 60 has a longitudinal size comprised between 70 inches and 80 inches, preferably 75 inches.
[0115] In accordance with a second embodiment, the advertising screen 60 has a longitudinal size comprised between 80 inches and 90 inches, preferably 85 inches.
[0116] According to a preferred embodiment, as visible in Fig.5, on the totem there are two advertising screens 60, arranged so as to be facing directions that are opposite one another.
[0117] As shown in Fig.8, at least one of these advertising screens 60 can be rotationally constrained to the bearing structure 50 at one of the opposite lateral edges 61.
[0118] In this way, the advertising screen 60 can accomplish the function of access inside the support structure 50.
[0119] Said support structure 50 has in fact a box configuration internally defining a containment volume "V" which can contain or be adapted to contain work instrumentation.
[0120] In other words, one lateral edge of this advertising screen 60 is permanently constrained in rotation to the bearing structure 50 while the other lateral edge, opposite the permanently constrained lateral edge, can be constrained to the bearing structure 50 by means of a constraining member (not shown in the appended figures).
[0122] That is to say that the advertising screen 60 will be movable in rotation between a closing configuration and an opening configuration, where this opening configuration allows an operator to access the containment volume "V".
[0123] In particular, according to a preferred embodiment, the containment body "V" contains at least one rung ladder 51 slidingly anchored to guide portions 52 of the bearing structure.
[0124] Furthermore, this rung ladder 51 features the possibility of being extended vertically and comprises a safety device to keep the operator anchored during maintenance interventions.
[0125] In one version, a totem 1 can be configured to call a further totem 1 and/or to be called by a further totem 1.It is thus possible that two totems 1 communicate with each other, for example in the same way as two walkie-talkies.
[0126] Advantageously, the quick access to the bearing structure 50 and the work instrumentation allow facilitating and speeding up the maintenance operations.
[0127] Advantageously, the present invention achieves the intended objects by overcoming the drawbacks complained of in the known art, in fact the fact that the electronic parts, and in particular the advertising screen, are arranged far from the ground allows the communication totem to strongly limit the problems related to the infiltration of humidity and dirt.
[0128] Furthermore, such a passage section underlying the advertising screen improves the aerodynamics of the structure, reducing the surface exposed to the wind action and making it more resistant to weather events.
[0129] Figures 9 to 11 show a communication totem 101, which differs from the totem 1 previously described mainly because it comprises a ladder 151 that can be displaced between a rest position and a working position with a movement mechanism different from the one shown in Figure 8.
[0130] The totem 101 comprises at least one movable screen 60a, similar to the screen 60 described above, which can be displaced between a closing configuration P1, shown in Figure 9 and an opening configuration P2, shown in Figure 11, passing from a plurality of intermediate configurations one of those is shown in Figure 10.
[0131] In the example shown, the totem 101 comprises, in addition to the movable screen 60a, a further screen 60b, which can optionally be arranged in a fixed position on the bearing structure 50.
[0132] The containment volume "V" is defined between the movable screen 60a and the further screen 60b.
[0133] In an alternative version, the further screen 60b can be absent. In this case, the containment volume "V" can be defined between the movable screen 60a and a rear wall of the totem 101 opposite the movable screen 60a.
[0134] The movable screen 60a is connected to the bearing structure 50 by means of a connection system 70 which, in the example shown, is of the pantograph type.
[0135] In particular, the connection system 70 comprises a pair of lower rods 71, one of which is visible in Figures 10 and 11. The two lower rods 71 can be at the same height, i.e. at the same distance from the ground. Each lower rod 71 has an end hinged to the bearing structure 50 and a further end hinged to a frame 74 which supports the movable screen 60a.
[0136] The connection system 70 further comprises a pair of upper rods including a first upper rod 72 and a second upper rod 73.
[0137] The first upper rod 72 is arranged above the lower rod 71 visible in Figures 10 and 11, whereas the second upper rod 73 is arranged above the lower rod 71 not shown.
[0138] The first upper rod 72 and the second upper rod 73 both have an end hinged to the bearing structure 50 and a further end hinged to the frame 74.
[0139] In the example shown, the lower rod 71 shown in Figures 10 and 11 defines a first rung of the ladder 151, for example the lowest rung of the ladder 151.The first upper rod 72 defines a further rung of the ladder 151, for example the highest rung of the ladder 151.
[0140] One or more intermediate rungs 75, also visible in Figure 12, can be interposed between the lower rod 71 shown in Figures 10 and 11 and the first upper rod 72.
[0141] In the example shown, two intermediate rungs 75 are provided, which can be parallel to one another and parallel to the lower rod 71 and to the first upper rod 72.
[0142] The rungs of the ladder 151 are fixed to two vertical bars 78 which, in the example shown, connect the first upper rod 72 to the underlying lower rod 71, near respective end regions of said rods.
[0144] A platform 76, shown in Figures 10 and 11, can also be provided on which an operator can stand during maintenance operations.
[0145] The platform 76 can have a substantially flat geometry and an approximately trapezoidal plan shape. More specifically, the shape of the platform 76 corresponds to the shape defined, in plan, by the pantograph identified by the upper rods 72, 73 (or alternatively by the lower rods 71).
[0146] The platform 76 is movable between a folded position PP, shown in Figure 10, in which the platform 76 is arranged in a substantially vertical position and is aligned with the ladder 151, and an extended position PE, shown in Figure 11, in which the platform 76 is arranged in a substantially horizontal position so as to define a rest surface onto which the operator can climb.
[0147] The platform 76 is hinged to the ladder 151.In the example shown, the platform 76 is connected to the first upper rod 72 by means of hinges 79.Thanks to the latter, the platform 76 can rotate around the first upper rod 72 to pass from the folded position PP to the extended position PE, as shown by the arrow R in Figure 10.
[0148] A blocking element 80 may be provided to block the platform 76 in the extended position PE when the operator has to climb onto the platform 76.The blocking element 80 can for example comprise a protruding element projecting from the platform 76 towards the movable screen 60a.In the extended position, the blocking element 80 engages with a seat formed on the frame 74, so that the platform 76 remains substantially horizontal even when the operator is standing thereon. Other types of blocking elements may be present instead of the blocking element 80 shaped as a protruding element.
[0149] In the extended position PE, the platform 76 blocks the screen 60a in the opening configuration, as it is interposed between the movable screen 60a and the bearing structure 50 and, thanks to its shape, prevents displacements of the lower rods 71 and of the upper rods 72, 73.
[0150] In other words, the platform 76, in the extended position PE, acts as a mechanical safety block for the pantograph opening system of the screens and therefore of the ladder itself. In addition, the aforesaid platform is also provided with an integrated additional mechanical safety fixing (pin/slot).
[0151] The totem 101 further comprises an unblocking device which can be activated in the closing configuration to allow the operator to bring the movable screen 60a into the opening configuration. The unblocking device can comprise an unblocking button, positioned for example in a lower portion of the bearing structure 50, in particular on a lower face of the bearing structure 50, facing the ground. By acting on the unblocking device, it is possible to deactivate a blocking mechanism which, if activated, keeps the movable screen 60a in the closing configuration. The blocking mechanism can comprise a hook associated with the frame 74, adapted to engage with a seat formed in the bearing structure 50.
[0152] During operation, the totem 101 is initially in the closing configuration P1 shown in Figure 9.
[0153] If the operator wishes to carry out maintenance operations, especially on the antenna modules 40, the operator acts on the unblocking device to unblock the movable screen 60a from the bearing structure 50, so that the movable screen 60a can be brought into the opening configuration P2.
[0154] After activating the unblocking device, the operator manually pulls the movable screen 60a towards himself to move it away from the bearing structure 50.The movable screen 60a is thus rotated around the ends of the lower rods 71, of the first upper rod 72 and of the second upper rod 73 to which the frame 74 is hinged. At the same time, the lower rods 71, the first upper rod 72 and the second upper rod 73 rotate around the respective hinging points at which these rods are hinged to the bearing structure 50.
[0155] The lower rods 71, the first upper rod 72 and the second upper rod 73 thus emerge from the containment compartment "V" and the movable screen 60a moves away from the bearing structure 50, until reaching the opening configuration P2 shown in Figure 11.
[0156] The platform 76 can now be arranged in the extended position PE where the upper surface thereof defines a substantially horizontal rest surface. At this point, as shown in Figure 12, the totem 101 is ready for the operator to climb towards the antenna modules 40.
[0157] In particular, the operator can climb onto the ladder 151, as shown in Figure 13, and be standing on the platform 76 to carry out the necessary maintenance operations. For example, the operator could disassemble a part of an outer casing of one or both antenna modules 40 and work on the electrical or electronic components that are present inside the casing.
[0158] The platform 76 defines a workstation that is safe for the operator, both because it defines a relatively wide rest surface for the operator's feet, and because the workstation is laterally protected thanks to the components of the totem 101. In particular, the movable screen 60a and the further screen 60b can protrude upwards with respect to the platform 76, so as to prevent or make it more difficult for the operator to fall.
[0159] The second upper rod 73, which as shown in Figure 11 is arranged at a higher level than the platform 76, acts as a protection bar or railing segment on which the operator can lean.
[0160] After carrying out the necessary maintenance operations, the operator can step down and bring the movable screen 60a back to the closing configuration, with a sequence of operations that is in reverse order to the one described so far.
[0161] The movable screen 60a, and the relative support structure comprising the frame 74, therefore acts as a door which can be opened to access the containment compartment "V", without carrying out complicated disassembly operations. Moreover, thanks to the ladder 151, housed in the containment compartment "V", it is possible for the operator to carry out maintenance operations even at the highest points of the totem 101, that is on the antenna modules 40, without having to carry along devices to climb onto the totem 40, such as ladders or cranes with basket. In this way, the operator who has to carry out maintenance operations on the totem 101 can reach the place where the totem 101 is situated without using a bulky means of transport and without carrying bulky ladders, which allows him to move easily in the city traffic.
[0162] It is emphasised that the antenna modules 40 have an elongated shape, as they are shaped like poles, i.e. they have a main longitudinal size (height) with respect to the transverse sizes, which allows reducing the resistance offered by the totem 1, 101 to the wind. For the same reason, the antenna modules 40, as well as the lower rest modules 20, have an aerodynamic section, having a curvilinear profile devoid of sharp edges.
[0163] The reduced resistance to the wind is also made possible thanks to the passage section, i.e. the empty space, present under the bearing structure 50 between the lower rest modules 20 of the columns 10.
[0164] It should be noted that the lower rest modules 20 of the columns 10 do not house electronic or electrical components of the totem 1, 101.The electrical or electronic components are housed in the containment compartment "V" or in the antenna modules 40, which makes it more difficult to damage them in the event of heavy rains, floods or impacts against the lower part of the totem 1, 101.
[0165] These modules can be made of concrete or comprise a significant amount of concrete so as to be heavy and increase the stability of the totem 101. The antenna modules 40 can have an external casing made of glass fibre, which does not disturb the signal transmission.
[0166] In summary, according to an aspect of the invention, in a first version a column (10) is provided for the delivery of information and/or services, comprising:
- a lower rest module (20);
- a communication module (30), and
- an antenna module (40),
wherein said antenna module (40) internally houses at least a transceiver device, preferably said transceiver device being a radio transceiver; wherein said communication module (30) has at least one input and/or output interface (31) respectively for entering and/or displaying information exchanged with a user;
wherein said column (10) further comprises a process and memory unit, connected to said at least one transceiver device and to said at least one input and/or output interface (31); and
wherein said modules (20, 30, 40) are reversibly connectable to one another by means of respective connection interfaces defining intended coupling surfaces (11).
[0167] In a second version, a column (10) is provided according to the first version, wherein each of said modules (20, 30, 40) comprises a normally-visible external casing, and at least one connection interface arranged at an end thereof and configured to reversibly connect to at least one adjacent module, preferably said modules (20, 30, 40) being stackable so that the external casing of a module (20, 30, 40) defines an extension, with no interruptions or steps, of the external casing of an adjacent module.
[0168] In a third version, a column (10) is provided according to the first or the second version, wherein said intended coupling surfaces (11) are parallel to one another to realise a coupling of different modules (20, 30, 40) and/or according to different combinations.
[0169] In a fourth version, a column (10) is provided according to one or more of the versions from the first to the third, wherein said input and/or output interface (31) comprises a screen (32) provided with touch-screen properties and/or equipped with a keyboard (33) for manual entering of information.
[0170] In a fifth version, a column (10) is provided according to the fourth version, comprising an apparatus for reading hardware devices (34), preferably smart cards, arranged in said communication module (30), in particular at said input and/or output interface (31), and connected to said process and memory unit.
[0171] In a sixth version, a column (10) is provided according to the fourth or fifth version, comprising a printing unit arranged in said communication module (30), in particular at said input and/or output interface (31), and connected to said process and memory unit.
[0172] In a seventh version, a column (10) is provided according to one of the versions from the first to the sixth, further comprising a service compartment (35) formed in said communication module (30), preferably in a position underlying said input and/or output interface (31).
[0173] In an eighth version, a column (10) is provided according to the seventh version, wherein medical instrumentation, preferably first aid instrumentation, and still more preferably a defibrillator, is installed and/or arranged in said auxiliary service compartment (35).
[0174] In a ninth version, a column (10) is provided according to one of the versions from the first to the eighth, wherein said antenna module (40) comprises at least one of:
an optoelectronic device (41), configured to assume a plurality of different colours associated to different statuses of the column (10) and/or suitable to identify and signal specific situations to the users; said optoelectronic device (41) being connected to said process and memory unit;
an electro-acoustic transducer, for example a loudspeaker, connected to said process and memory unit.
[0175] In a tenth version, a column (10) is provided according to one of the versions from the first to the ninth, wherein said antenna module (40) comprises a public lighting device (44).
[0176] In an eleventh version, a column (10) is provided according to one of the versions from the first to the tenth, wherein the lower rest module (20) is at least partly, preferably entirely, made of a resin cement and/or wherein the communication module (30) is at least partly, preferably entirely, made of metal, and/or wherein the antenna module (40) is at least partly, preferably entirely, made of glass fibre or carbon.
[0177] In a twelfth version, a communication totem (1) is provided, comprising:
- two support columns (10), at least one of which being made according to one or more of the versions from the first to the eleventh and arranged in an erect position and flanked to one another at a predetermined distance;
- a bearing structure (50) fixed to said columns (10) so as to extend between said columns (10) at a predetermined distance from the ground to define an underlying passage section;
- at least one screen (60), mounted on said bearing structure (50) so that two opposite lateral edges (61) of said screen (60) face a respective one of said columns (10) and a lower edge (62) of the screen (60) is distanced away from the ground.
[0178] In a thirteenth version, a totem (1) is provided according to the twelfth version, wherein the bearing structure (50) has a box configuration internally defining a containment volume (V) containing, or adapted to contain, work instrumentation, in particular at least one rung ladder (51) slidingly anchored to guide portions (52) of the bearing structure (50), said screen (60) preferably being rotationally constrained to said bearing structure (50) at one of said opposite lateral edges (61) to allow access to said containment volume (V).
1. A communication totem (1; 101) comprising:
wherein said antenna module (40) internally houses at least one transceiver device,
wherein said communication module (30) has at least one input and/or output interface (31) respectively for entering and/or displaying information exchanged with a user;
wherein said column (10) further comprises a process and memory unit, connected to said at least one transceiver device and to said at least one input and/or output interface (31); and
wherein said modules (20, 30, 40) are reversibly connectable to one another by means of respective connection interfaces defining intended coupling surfaces (11),
and wherein the bearing structure (50) has a box configuration internally defining a containment volume (V) containing at least one ladder (51; 151) which can be used by an operator to access the antenna module (40).
- two support columns (10), arranged in an erect position and flanked to one another at a predetermined distance;
- a bearing structure (50) fixed to said columns (10) so as to extend between said columns (10) at a predetermined distance from the ground to define an underlying passage section;
- at least one screen (60; 60a), supported by said bearing structure (50) and connected to the bearing structure (50) by a connection system (70) so as to be movable between a closing configuration, in which two opposite lateral edges (61) of said screen (60; 60a) face a respective column (10) of said columns (10) and a lower edge (62) of the screen (60; 60a) is distanced away from the ground, and an opening configuration, wherein at least one of said columns (10) comprises:
- a lower rest module (20);
- a communication module (30), and
- an antenna module (40),
wherein said modules (20, 30, 40) are stacked or stackable on one another to define a configuration of the column (10) having a vertical main extension direction in which the communication module (30) is interposed between the lower rest module (20) and the antenna module (40),wherein said antenna module (40) internally houses at least one transceiver device,
wherein said communication module (30) has at least one input and/or output interface (31) respectively for entering and/or displaying information exchanged with a user;
wherein said column (10) further comprises a process and memory unit, connected to said at least one transceiver device and to said at least one input and/or output interface (31); and
wherein said modules (20, 30, 40) are reversibly connectable to one another by means of respective connection interfaces defining intended coupling surfaces (11),
and wherein the bearing structure (50) has a box configuration internally defining a containment volume (V) containing at least one ladder (51; 151) which can be used by an operator to access the antenna module (40).
2. The totem according to claim 1, wherein the connection system (70) is configured to
move the screen (60; 60a) away from the bearing structure (50) in the opening configuration,
so that in the opening configuration it is possible to access the containment compartment
(V).
3. The totem according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the connection system (70) comprises
a pair of lower rods (71) and a pair of upper rods (72, 73), each lower rod (71) and
each upper rod (72, 73) having one end hinged to the bearing structure (50) and a
further end hinged to a frame (74) supporting the screen (60a).
4. The totem according to claim 3, wherein the lower rods (71) are arranged substantially
at the same level.
5. The totem according to claim 3 or 4, wherein the upper rods (72, 73) are arranged
at a higher level than the lower rods (71), at least one of the upper rods (72, 73)
being vertically aligned with the corresponding lower rod (71).
6. The totem according to one of claims 3 to 5, wherein the ladder (151) is supported
by a lower rod (71) of said pair of lower rods (71) and by a first upper rod (72)
of said pair of upper rods (72, 73).
7. The totem according to claim 6, wherein said lower rod (71) and said first upper rod
(72) define respective rungs of the ladder (151), the ladder (151) further comprising
at least one rung (75) which is interposed between said lower rod (71) and said first
upper rod (72) and fixed to respective vertical bars (78) that connect said lower
rod (71) and the first upper rod (72).
8. The totem according to one of the preceding claims, and further comprising a platform
(76) which is movable between a folded position in which the platform (76) is vertically
aligned with the ladder (151) and an extended position in which the platform defines
a substantially horizontal rest surface on which an operator can stand, the horizontal
rest surface being interposed between the bearing structure (50) and said screen (60a)
arranged in the opening configuration so as to block the screen in the opening configuration.
9. The totem according to claim 8, wherein, in the extended position of the platform
(76), the ladder (151) is arranged outside the containment compartment (V) to allow
an operator to climb onto the platform (76).
10. The totem according to claim 8 or 9, when claim 8 depends on claim 6 or 7, wherein
said pair of upper rods (72, 73) comprises a second upper rod (73) positioned at a
higher level than the first upper rod (72), so as to act as a safety barrier to prevent
an operator standing on the platform (76) from falling.
11. The totem according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the passage section is
an empty space (77) interposed between said two columns (10) and a lower portion of
the bearing structure (50).
12. The totem according to one of the preceding claims, wherein two antenna modules (40)
are provided which protrude upwards from the bearing structure (50), each antenna
module (40) having the shape of an elongated element extending mainly in a vertical
direction, an empty space being provided between the antenna modules (40) to reduce
the wind resistance of the totem.
13. The totem according to one of the preceding claims, wherein each of said modules (20,
30, 40) comprises a normally-visible external casing, and at least one connection
interface arranged at an end thereof and configured to reversibly connect to at least
one adjacent module, preferably said modules (20, 30, 40) being stackable so that
the external casing of a module (20, 30, 40) defines an extension, with no interruptions
or steps, of the external casing of an adjacent module.
14. The totem according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein said antenna module
(40) comprises at least one of:
an optoelectronic device (41), configured to assume a plurality of different colours associated to different statuses of the column (10) and/or suitable to identify and signal specific situations to the users; said optoelectronic device (41) being connected to said process and memory unit;
an electro-acoustic transducer, for example a loudspeaker, connected to said process and memory unit.
15. The totem according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the lower rest
module (20) is at least partly, preferably entirely, made of a resin cement and is
devoid of electrical or electronic components, and/or wherein the communication module
(30) is at least partly, preferably entirely, made of metal, and/or wherein the antenna
module (40) is at least partly, preferably entirely, made of glass fibre.