U.S. patent application number 14/857462 was filed with the patent office on 2017-03-23 for techniques and apparatus for controlling the temperature of a personal communication structure (pcs).
This patent application is currently assigned to Civiq Smartscapes, LLC. The applicant listed for this patent is Civiq Smartscapes, LLC. Invention is credited to Kyle R. Bowers, Kenneth J. Gray, Benjamin M. Lawler, Benjamin P. Lee, Parag N. Shah.
Application Number | 20170083062 14/857462 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 58282563 |
Filed Date | 2017-03-23 |
United States Patent
Application |
20170083062 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Bowers; Kyle R. ; et
al. |
March 23, 2017 |
TECHNIQUES AND APPARATUS FOR CONTROLLING THE TEMPERATURE OF A
PERSONAL COMMUNICATION STRUCTURE (PCS)
Abstract
Techniques for operating a personal communication structure
(PCS) are described. In particular, a temperature control system
for controlling the temperature of a PCS is described. The
temperature control system may include a ribbed heat sink and first
and second air circulation controllers. The heat sink may be
coupled to the PCS's frame, adjacent to the back surface of a
housing for a display module. The first air circulation controller
may be configured to recirculate air in a cavity within the display
module's housing. The second air circulation controller may be
configured to move ambient air across the heat sink.
Inventors: |
Bowers; Kyle R.;
(Boxborough, MA) ; Lee; Benjamin P.; (Wayland,
MA) ; Shah; Parag N.; (Carlisle, MA) ; Gray;
Kenneth J.; (Woonsocket, RI) ; Lawler; Benjamin
M.; (Beverly, MA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Civiq Smartscapes, LLC |
Milford |
MA |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
Civiq Smartscapes, LLC
Milford
MA
|
Family ID: |
58282563 |
Appl. No.: |
14/857462 |
Filed: |
September 17, 2015 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G06F 1/206 20130101;
H05K 7/20972 20130101 |
International
Class: |
G06F 1/20 20060101
G06F001/20; G05B 15/02 20060101 G05B015/02 |
Claims
1. A personal communication structure (PCS) comprising: a PCS
frame; a housing coupled to the PCS frame, the housing enclosing a
display panel in a cavity; and a temperature control system for
controlling a temperature within the PCS, the temperature control
system comprising: a ribbed heat sink coupled to the PCS frame, the
heat sink being disposed adjacent to a back surface of the housing,
a first portion of the heat sink comprising a first plurality of
fins extending into the cavity, and a second portion of the heat
sink comprising a second plurality of fins disposed outside the
cavity, a first air circulation controller configured to
recirculate air across the first plurality of fins in the cavity,
and a second air circulation controller configured to move ambient
air across the second plurality of fins of the heat sink.
2. The PCS of claim 1, wherein the PCS frame comprises
aluminum.
3. The PCS of claim 1, wherein an average thermal conductivity of
the PCS frame is greater than 90+/-20% Btu/(hr*.degree. F.*ft).
4. The PCS of claim 1, wherein the heat sink is coupled to opposing
sides of the PCS frame to form an I-shaped structure.
5. The PCS of claim 1, wherein the housing comprises a housing
frame and a transparent covering secured to the housing frame and
adjacent to a viewing surface of the display panel.
6. The PCS of claim 1, wherein the housing is airtight.
7. The PCS of claim 1, wherein the ribbed heat sink comprises a
planar member and the first and second pluralities of fins.
8. The PCS of claim 7, wherein the first plurality of fins extend
from the planar member toward the back surface of the housing and
into the cavity.
9. The PCS of claim 7, wherein the planar member is disposed
between the second plurality of fins and the back surface of the
housing.
10. The PCS of claim 1, wherein the heat sink comprises
aluminum.
11. The PCS of claim 1, wherein the heat sink and the frame
comprise a same material.
12. The PCS of claim 1, wherein the first air circulation
controller comprises at least one fan operable to recirculate air
in a portion of the housing cavity between the back surface of the
housing and a back surface of the display panel.
13. The PCS of claim 1, wherein the second air circulation
controller comprises at least one fan operable to draw the ambient
air into the PCS via at least one intake and discharge the ambient
air out of the PCS via at least one exhaust.
14. The PCS of claim 13, wherein the at least one fan is further
operable to draw air into a first PCS compartment from a second PCS
compartment, wherein the first PCS compartment is defined at least
in part by the housing, and wherein the second PCS compartment
comprises at least one electronic device.
15. The PCS of claim 13, wherein the intake comprises a filter and
a grill disposed below the housing.
16. The PCS of claim 13, wherein the exhaust comprises a grill
disposed above the housing.
17. The PCS of claim 1, wherein recirculated air transfers heat
from the display panel to the housing and wherein the housing
transfers heat to the ambient air.
18. The PCS of claim 17, wherein the housing transfers heat to the
heat sink, and wherein the heat sink transfers heat to the ambient
air.
19. The PCS of claim 1, wherein the housing comprises a first
housing, wherein the display panel comprises a first display panel,
and wherein the PCS further comprises a second housing enclosing a
second display panel, a portion of the heat sink being disposed
between the back surface of the first housing and a back surface of
the second housing.
20. The PCS of claim 19, wherein the heat sink comprises a first
heat sink, and wherein the PCS further comprises a second heat
sink, at least a portion of the second heat sink being disposed
between the back surface of the second housing and the first heat
sink.
21. The PCS of claim 19, wherein a minimum distance between the
back surfaces of the first and second housings is at least
1.875+/-20% inches.
22. The PCS of claim 21, wherein the first and second display
panels are arranged in a parallel configuration, wherein viewing
surfaces of the first and second display panels face in opposite
directions, and wherein a distance between the viewing surfaces of
the first and second display panels is less than 11+/-20%
inches.
23. The PCS of claim 1, wherein the temperature control system
further comprises a temperature sensor and a display controller,
wherein the display controller is operable to perform at least one
operation selected from the group consisting of deactivating the
display panel and dimming the display panel based on the
temperature sensor sensing a temperature greater than a threshold
temperature.
24. The PCS of claim 23, wherein the display controller is operable
to continue performing the at least one operation until the sensed
temperature is less than another threshold temperature.
25. The PCS of claim 1, wherein the temperature control system
implements a closed loop control system controlling at least one
fan.
26. The PCS of claim 25, wherein the temperature control system is
operable to detect whether the fan has a fault.
27. The PCS of claim 25, wherein the temperature control system
further comprises at least one vent, and wherein the temperature
control system is operable to detect whether the vent is
blocked.
28. The PCS of claim 25, wherein the temperature control system is
operable to send a message to a remote service center, the message
indicating a temperature of a PCS component or a fault condition of
a PCS component.
29. The PCS of claim 25, wherein the temperature control system
further comprises at least one vent flap and at least one fan
operable to recirculate air within the PCS until a temperature of
the PCS reaches a temperature threshold.
30. The PCS of claim 25, wherein the temperature control system is
operable to determine target operating temperatures for portions of
the PCS.
Description
FIELD OF INVENTION
[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to techniques and
apparatus for operating a personal communication structure (PCS).
Some embodiments relate specifically to techniques and apparatus
for controlling the temperature of a PCS. Some embodiments relate
specifically to techniques and apparatus for removing and/or
installing displays modules of a PCS.
BACKGROUND
[0002] In some public or semi-public areas, various structures can
be used for communication or to obtain access to goods and
services. For example, telephone booths can be used to place
telephone calls. Interactive kiosks can be used to obtain access to
information, products, and/or services. Some interactive kiosks are
self-service kiosks, which allow patrons of a business to perform
service tasks that were historically performed by business
employees. For example, the automated teller machine (ATM) is a
self-service kiosk that allows users to deposit funds into a
financial account, withdraw funds from an account, check an account
balance, etc.--tasks that were historically performed with the
assistance of a human bank teller. As another example, some retail
stores allow customers to scan and pay for their items at
self-service checkout kiosks rather than checkout stations staffed
by human cashiers.
[0003] An interactive kiosk generally includes a computer terminal,
which executes software and/or controls hardware peripherals to
perform the kiosk's tasks. Many interactive kiosks are deployed
inside buildings that are accessible to the public (e.g., banks,
stores), in areas where the building operators can monitor the
kiosks and protect them from unauthorized access. In some cases,
interactive kiosks are integrated into walls of buildings (e.g.,
some ATMs are integrated into walls of banks), fastened to walls,
or placed against walls, which can protect the kiosks from
unauthorized access and reduce the occurrence of potentially
dangerous events such as the kiosks tipping or overturning.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0004] In recent years, public telephone booths have dwindled in
number and many of the remaining booths have fallen into relative
disuse and disrepair. The demise of the public telephone booth can
be traced, in part, to the increasing prevalence of mobile phones
and to the widespread use of communication networks for
non-telephonic purposes. Many people who wish to participate in
telephone conversations in public places prefer the convenience of
their own mobile phones to the inconvenience of a stationary phone
booth. Furthermore, in contrast to many mobile phones, conventional
public telephone booths do not allow users to access Internet-based
data and services. Many people who wish to access Internet-based
data and services in public places use mobile computing devices
(e.g., smartphones or laptop computers) and wireless networks
(e.g., mobile broadband networks or Wi-Fi networks) to do so. In
short, for many people, the public telephone booth is less
convenient and less functional than other readily-available options
for connecting to a communication network.
[0005] Despite the seeming ubiquity of mobile computing devices,
many people are often left with insufficient access to telephonic
or Internet-based services. In some areas, wireless network
coverage may be poor or nonexistent. In areas where wireless
networks are available, the number of network users or the volume
of network traffic may exceed the capacity of the network, leaving
some users unable to connect to the network, and degrading quality
of service for users who are able to connect (e.g., degrading audio
quality of phone calls or reducing rates of data communication).
Even when wireless networks are available and not congested, some
people may not have access to telephonic or Internet-based services
because they may not have suitable computing devices or
network-access agreements (e.g., a person may not own a computing
device, may own a computing device but not have a network-access
agreement with an Internet-service provider, may not own a mobile
computing device, may have a mobile computing device with an
uncharged battery, etc.).
[0006] There is a need for personal communication structures (PCSs)
that enhance public access to communication networks. Such PCSs may
enhance access to communication networks by expanding network
coverage (e.g., making communication networks available in areas
where they would otherwise be unavailable), expanding network
capacity (e.g., increasing the capacity of communication networks
in areas where such networks are available), expanding access to
end-user computing devices and telephones, and/or expanding access
to charging outlets for mobile computing devices. By enhancing
access to communication networks, the PCSs may improve the
employment prospects, educational opportunities, and/or quality of
life for individuals, families, and communities that would
otherwise have limited access to communication networks.
[0007] Public access to communication networks can be enhanced by
placing PCSs in public locations, including sidewalks, parking
facilities, mass transit stations, etc. For aesthetic and practical
reasons, it is desirable for such PCSs to be reasonably compact.
However, operating PCSs in public locations can expose the PCS
components to harsh conditions, including harsh environmental
conditions (e.g., extreme heat, extreme cold, humidity,
unconditioned air, etc.), vandalism (e.g., etching, painting,
deliberate acts of destruction, etc.), and collisions with
automobiles. Thus, there is a need for compact PCSs that can
operate properly under harsh operating conditions, and can be
repaired quickly and easily when components fail or suffer
damage.
[0008] In particular, there is a need for a compact PCS that
functions properly even when operated in a harsh environment. Some
PCS components can be protected from harsh environmental conditions
by sealing these components in substantially airtight compartments.
The inventors have recognized and appreciated that the PCS's
temperature can be controlled by recirculating air in the
substantially airtight compartments, and by circulating ambient air
through the PCS and over a heat sink inside the PCS. The PCS's
temperature control system may be more compact, less expensive,
and/or easier to maintain than temperature control systems that use
refrigerants to control air temperature.
[0009] There is also a need for a PCS that can be serviced quickly
and easily, to address damage to or failure of PCS components. Some
PCSs include display systems with relatively large and heavy
components (e.g., 55'' display panels) mounted high above the base
of the PCS. Safely servicing such a display system could involve
two or more service workers ascending ladders to remove components
of the display system from the PCS. However, such servicing would
be time-consuming and expensive. The inventors have recognized and
appreciated that the time and cost of servicing a PCS's display
system can be greatly reduced by mounting display panels to the PCS
in a manner that allows the display panels to be installed in the
PCS, accessed, and removed from the PCS, one or two service workers
without the aid of a ladder.
[0010] According to an aspect of the present disclosure, a personal
communication structure (PCS) is provided. The PCS includes a PCS
frame, a housing coupled to the PCS frame, and a temperature
control system for controlling a temperature within the PCS. The
housing encloses a display panel in a cavity. The temperature
control system includes a ribbed heat sink coupled to the PCS
frame, a first air circulation controller configured to recirculate
air in the housing cavity, and a second air circulation controller
configured to move ambient air across the heat sink. The heat sink
is disposed adjacent to a back surface of the housing.
[0011] In some embodiments, the PCS frame includes aluminum. In
some embodiments, an average thermal conductivity of the PCS frame
is greater than approximately 90 Btu/(hr*.degree. F.*ft). In some
embodiments, the heat sink is coupled to opposing sides of the PCS
frame to form an I-shaped structure. In some embodiments, the
housing includes a housing frame and a transparent covering secured
to the housing frame and adjacent to a viewing surface of the
display panel. In some embodiments, the housing frame includes
aluminum. In some embodiments, an average thermal conductivity of
the housing frame is greater than approximately 90 Btu/(hr*.degree.
F.*ft). In some embodiments, the housing is substantially
airtight.
[0012] In some embodiments, at least a portion of the back surface
of the housing is in contact with the heat sink. In some
embodiments, the ribbed heat sink includes a substantially planar
member and a plurality of fins. In some embodiments, at least a
subset of the fins extend from the planar member toward the back
surface of the housing. In some embodiments, the planar member is
disposed between at least a subset of the fins and the back surface
of the housing. In some embodiments, the heat sink has a width of
approximately 1.5 inches. In some embodiments, the heat sink
includes aluminum. In some embodiments, an average thermal
conductivity of the heat sink is greater than approximately 90
Btu/(hr*.degree. F.*ft). In some embodiments, the heat sink and the
frame include a same material.
[0013] In some embodiments, the first air circulation controller
includes at least one fan operable to recirculate air in a portion
of the housing cavity between the back surface of the housing and a
back surface of the display panel. In some embodiments, the second
air circulation controller includes at least one fan operable to
draw the ambient air into the PCS via at least one intake and
discharge the ambient air out of the PCS via at least one exhaust.
In some embodiments, the at least one fan is further operable to
draw air into a first PCS compartment from a second PCS
compartment, wherein the first PCS compartment is defined at least
in part by the housing, and wherein the second PCS compartment
includes at least one electronic device. In some embodiments, the
intake includes a filter and a grill. In some embodiments, the
filter and the grill are disposed below the housing. In some
embodiments, the exhaust includes a grill. In some embodiments, the
grill is disposed above the housing.
[0014] In some embodiments, recirculated air transfers heat from
the display panel to the housing and the housing transfers heat to
the ambient air. In some embodiments, the housing transfers heat to
the heat sink, and the heat sink transfers heat to the ambient
air.
[0015] In some embodiments, the housing includes a first housing,
the display panel includes a first display panel, and the PCS
further includes a second housing enclosing a second display panel,
the heat sink being disposed between the back surface of the first
housing and a back surface of the second housing. In some
embodiments, the heat sink includes a first heat sink, and the PCS
further includes a second heat sink disposed between the back
surface of the second housing and the first heat sink. In some
embodiments, a minimum distance between the back surfaces of the
first and second housings is at least approximately 1.875 inches.
In some embodiments, the first and second display panels are
arranged in a substantially parallel configuration, wherein viewing
surfaces of the first and second display panels face in
substantially opposite directions, and wherein a distance between
the viewing surfaces of the first and second display panels is less
than approximately 11 inches.
[0016] In some embodiments, the temperature control system further
includes a temperature sensor and a display controller, wherein the
display controller is operable to perform at least one operation
selected from the group consisting of deactivating the display
panel and dimming the display panel based on the temperature sensor
sensing a temperature greater than a threshold temperature. In some
embodiments, the display controller is operable to continue
performing the at least one operation until the sensed temperature
is less than another threshold temperature.
[0017] In some embodiments, the temperature control system further
includes an exhaust vent, and the exhaust vent directs warm air
remotely from a base of the structure. In some embodiments, the
temperature control system implements a closed loop control system
controlling at least one fan. In some embodiments, the temperature
control system is operable to detect whether the fan has a fault.
In some embodiments, the temperature control system further
includes at least one vent, and the temperature control system is
operable to detect whether the vent is blocked. In some
embodiments, the temperature control system is operable to send a
message to a remote service center, the message indicating a
temperature of a PCS component or a fault condition of a PCS
component. In some embodiments, the temperature control system
further includes at least one vent flap and at least one fan
operable to recirculate air within the PCS until a temperature of
the PCS reaches a temperature threshold. In some embodiments, the
temperature control system is operable to determine target
operating temperatures for portions of the PCS. In some
embodiments, the target temperature Tt determined by the
temperature control system is equal to P(e.sup.Ta)+10, where Tt is
the target temperature in degrees Celsius, Ta is an ambient
temperature outside the PCS in degrees Celsius, and P is a power
factor.
[0018] Other aspects and advantages of the invention will become
apparent from the following drawings, detailed description, and
claims, all of which illustrate the principles of the invention, by
way of example only.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0019] Certain advantages of some embodiments may be understood by
referring to the following description taken in conjunction with
the accompanying drawings. In the drawings, like reference
characters generally refer to the same parts throughout the
different views. Also, the drawings are not necessarily to scale,
emphasis instead generally being placed upon illustrating
principles of some embodiments of the invention.
[0020] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a personal communication
structure (PCS), in accordance with some embodiments;
[0021] FIG. 2 is a schematic of a power distribution subsystem of a
PCS, in accordance with some embodiments;
[0022] FIG. 3 is a schematic of a network subsystem of a PCS, in
accordance with some embodiments;
[0023] FIG. 4 is a schematic of a maintenance subsystem of a PCS,
in accordance with some embodiments;
[0024] FIG. 5 is a block diagram of a user interface subsystem of a
PCS, in accordance with some embodiments;
[0025] FIG. 6 is a schematic of a user interface subsystem of a
PCS, in accordance with some embodiments;
[0026] FIG. 7 is a schematic of a display module of a PCS, in
accordance with some embodiments;
[0027] FIG. 8 illustrates an arrangement of compartments of a PCS,
in accordance with some embodiments;
[0028] FIGS. 9A, 9B, and 9C show respective front perspective,
side, and exploded front perspective views of a PCS, in accordance
with some embodiments;
[0029] FIGS. 10A, 10B, and 10C show respective side perspective,
front perspective, and exploded front perspective views of a frame
of a PCS, in accordance with some embodiments;
[0030] FIG. 11 shows a perspective view of a portion of a PCS, in
accordance with some embodiments;
[0031] FIGS. 12A and 12B show front perspective views of a PCS with
ribbed panels, in accordance with some embodiments;
[0032] FIG. 12C shows a schematic side view of a ribbed panel, in
accordance with some embodiments;
[0033] FIG. 13 shows a block diagram of a temperature control
system of a PCS, in accordance with some embodiments;
[0034] FIGS. 14A, 14B, and 14C show one or more vents of a
temperature control system in exploded perspective views of a PCS,
in accordance with some embodiments;
[0035] FIG. 14D shows a vent of a temperature control system in a
top view of a PCS, in accordance with some embodiments;
[0036] FIG. 14E shows vents of a temperature control system in a
perspective view of a PCS, in accordance with some embodiments;
[0037] FIG. 15 shows an exploded perspective view of an intake
module, in accordance with some embodiments;
[0038] FIGS. 16A and 16B show, respectively, an exploded
perspective view and a side view of a display module, in accordance
with some embodiments;
[0039] FIG. 17 shows a side view of a top portion of a PCS, in
accordance with some embodiments;
[0040] FIG. 18 shows a block diagram of a system for servicing a
display subsystem of a PCS, in accordance with some
embodiments;
[0041] FIGS. 19A and 19B show, respectively, a perspective view and
a side view of a display mounting system, in accordance with some
embodiments;
[0042] FIGS. 20A and 20B show perspective views of a linkage of a
display mounting system, in accordance with some embodiments;
[0043] FIGS. 21A and 21B show, respectively, a side view and a
perspective view of a portion of a linkage of a display mounting
system, in accordance with some embodiments;
[0044] FIG. 21C shows a side view of a portion of a display
mounting system, in accordance with some embodiments;
[0045] FIG. 21D shows a perspective view of a portion of a linkage
of a display mounting system, in accordance with some
embodiments;
[0046] FIG. 22 shows a perspective cut-away view of a locking
mechanism of a display compartment, in accordance with some
embodiments;
[0047] FIGS. 23A and 23B show side views of a locking mechanism of
a display compartment with the lock engaged (FIG. 23A) and
disengaged (FIG. 23B), in accordance with some embodiments;
[0048] FIG. 24 shows a perspective view of a display subsystem of a
PCS, in accordance with some embodiments;
[0049] FIGS. 25A and 25C show side views of a counterbalance
mechanism of a servicing system in a closed position, in accordance
with some embodiments;
[0050] FIG. 25B shows a side view of a counterbalance mechanism of
a servicing system in a servicing position, in accordance with some
embodiments; and
[0051] FIGS. 26A and 26B show perspective views of upper and lower
portions, respectively, of a servicing system, in accordance with
some embodiments.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
Overview of Personal Communication Structure (PCS)
[0052] FIG. 1 illustrates a personal communication structure (PCS)
100, according to some embodiments. PCS 100 enhances access to
communication networks in public or semi-public places. In some
embodiments, PCS 100 includes an electronics subsystem 140, a user
interface subsystem 150, a temperature control subsystem 160, a
display subsystem 170, a communications subsystem 180, and/or a
mounting subsystem 190. Electronics subsystem 140 may include a
power distribution subsystem 110, a network subsystem 120, and/or a
maintenance subsystem 130. These and other components of PCS 100
are described in further detail below.
[0053] Power distribution subsystem 110 distributes electrical
power to components of PCS 100. Power distribution subsystem 100
may provide power to network subsystem 120, maintenance subsystem
130, other components of electronics subsystem 140, user interface
subsystem 150, temperature control subsystem 160, display subsystem
170, and/or communications subsystem 180. Power distribution
subsystem 110 may distribute power provided by any suitable power
source(s) including, without limitation, batteries, solar panels, a
power line 112 coupled to a power grid, etc. In some embodiments,
power distribution subsystem 110 includes one or more power
converters operable to convert power from one form (e.g., AC power)
into another form (e.g., DC power) suitable for the PCS's
components. In some embodiments, power distribution subsystem 110
includes one or more voltage level converters operable to change
the voltage level of a signal to a level compatible with a
component of the PCS. The ground terminal of the power distribution
subsystem 110 may be coupled to a reference potential 114 via the
chassis of the PCS or via any other suitable path.
[0054] FIG. 2 shows a schematic of a power distribution subsystem
110, according to some embodiments. In some embodiments, power
distribution subsystem (PDS) 110 includes a power conversion system
204, a power distribution board 202, and a battery 206. The inputs
to power conversion system 204 include AC power supply signals
(e.g., 120 VAC at 60 Hz) carried on a hot line 212, a neutral line
214, and a ground line 216. In some embodiments, the hot line 212
and neutral line 214 may be coupled to power conversion system 204
by quick disconnect devices 207 and 208, respectively, whereby the
hot and neutral lines may be safely disconnected from power
distribution subsystem 110 if the PCS is separated from its
footing. Ground line 216 may be coupled to a ground terminal of the
PCS 100. Power conversion system 204 processes the AC power supply
signals and converts the processed signals into DC power supply
signals. In some embodiments, power conversion system 204 includes
a current transformer 222, AC power distribution unit 223,
ground-fault circuit interrupter 224 (e.g., circuit breakers), AC
line filter 226, and rectifier 218. Rectifier 218 may function as a
DC power supply (e.g., a 24 V, 75 A, 2 kW DC power supply). As can
be seen in FIG. 2, the outputs of various components of power
conversion system 204 may be provided as inputs to power
distribution board 202.
[0055] Power distribution board 202 may detect power system faults
and distribute DC power signals to other components of the PCS. In
some embodiments, power distribution board 202 uses the AC signals
provided by power conversion system 204 to perform fault detection
(e.g., ground fault detection, stray voltage detection, etc.). In
some embodiments, power distribution board 202 uses the DC power
supply signals provided by power conversion system 204 and/or
battery 206 to produce DC power supply signals at various voltage
levels (e.g., 5V, 12V, and 24V DC), and distributes those DC power
supply signals to suitable components of the PCS 100.
[0056] In some embodiments, power distribution system DC power
signals can be switched on and off. As those skilled in the art can
appreciate, staggered activation of high-power devices (e.g., one
or more components of display subsystem 170) reduces in-rush
current demand on power supply 218. In some embodiments, the power
distribution subsystem 110 is able to measure output current and
can shut off power supply signals when the device reaches an
over-current threshold. When a device causes over-current and
"trips" the output, an error message may be sent to a maintenance
center, indicating that the PCS requires servicing.
[0057] Battery 206 may provide backup power for components of PCS
100, including but not limited to user interface subsystem 150,
which may implement emergency communication (e.g., E911)
functionality. In some embodiments, power distribution board 202
may charge battery 206 (e.g., at 24 VDC) when power conversion
system 204 is producing DC power and PCS 100 is not using all the
available DC power. In some embodiments, a solar charging system
may charge battery 206 during power outages or at other times.
[0058] In some embodiments, the power distribution subsystem 110
can detect whether the ground-fault circuit interrupter 224 has
tripped. The ability to detect activation of the ground-fault
circuit interrupter 224 can facilitate maintenance of the PCS. For
example, while on back-up battery power, the PDS may determine
whether AC power is lost (e.g., by sensing whether AC power supply
signals are present) or the ground-fault circuit interrupter 224
has tripped. A suitable message can then be sent to the maintenance
center, indicating, for example, whether the PCS requires
service.
[0059] Returning to FIG. 1, network subsystem 120 controls
communication on a network 124 within PCS 100, and communication
between internal network 124 and a network 126 external to the PCS.
In some embodiments, network subsystem 120 uses network 124 to
communicate with power distribution system 110, maintenance
subsystem 130, user interface subsystem 150, temperature control
subsystem 160, display subsystem 170, and/or communications
subsystem 180. The nodes of network 124 may be arranged in one or
more suitable network topologies, including, without limitation, a
bus (e.g., with network subsystem 120 as the bus controller), star
network (e.g., with network subsystem 120 as the central hub), ring
network, mesh network, tree network, point-to-point network, etc.
Network 124 may be implemented using one or more suitable
communication technologies, including, without limitation,
Ethernet, DVI (Digital Visual Interface), HDMI (High-Definition
Multimedia Interface), USB (Universal Serial Bus), SMB (System
Management Bus), I2C (Inter-Integrated Circuit) bus, VGA (Video
Graphics Array), SCSI (Small Computer System Interface), SPI
(Serial Peripheral Interface) bus, LVDS (low-voltage differential
signaling), etc.
[0060] Network subsystem 120 may send and receive any suitable
data. For example, network subsystem 120 may control the operation
of other components of PCS 100 by sending control data to the PCS's
subsystems. Network subsystem 120 may forward commands received
from a suitable source, including, without limitation, other PCS
subsystems and/or network 126. As another example, network
subsystem 120 may send operand data to components of PCS 100 for
processing by those components (e.g., data to be displayed by
display subsystem 170 or user interface subsystem 150, data to be
transmitted by communications subsystem 180, etc.).
[0061] In some embodiments, network subsystem 120 communicates with
network 126 via data link 122. Data link 122 may be implemented
using a suitable communications line, including, without
limitation, an Ethernet cable, coaxial cable, or optical fiber. In
some embodiments, network subsystem 120 may include a signal
conversion device adapted to convert the signals received on data
link 122 from one form (e.g., optical signals) into another form
(e.g., electrical signals).
[0062] FIG. 3 shows a schematic of a network subsystem 120, in
accordance with some embodiments. In one embodiment, network
subsystem 120 includes a fiber junction box 302, a service delivery
switch 304, and a network switch 306. In the example of FIG. 3,
data link 122 includes one or more optical fibers. Fiber junction
box 302 may optically couple the optical fibers of data link 122 to
one or more internal optical fibers 322. In some embodiments, fiber
junction box 302 includes one or more quick disconnect devices,
whereby the optical fibers of data link 122 may be protected from
damage if PCS 100 is separated from its footing. Service delivery
switch 304 may convert the optical signals received on optical
fibers 322 into electrical signals representing network traffic
(e.g., Ethernet packets), and provide that network traffic to
network switch 306. Likewise, service delivery switch 304 may
convert the network traffic (e.g., Ethernet packets) received from
network switch 306 into optical signals, and provide those optical
signals to fiber junction box 302. Network switch 306 may switch
network traffic between PCS subsystems, or between a PCS subsystem
and network 126. In some embodiments, network switch 306 is an
Ethernet switch. Network switch 306 may be powered by power
distribution subsystem 110.
[0063] In some embodiments, network subsystem 120 includes a
power-over-Ethernet (POE) injector 308. The POE injector 308 may
provide power to one or more PCS subsystems, including, without
limitation, communications subsystem 180.
[0064] Returning to FIG. 1, maintenance subsystem 130 runs
maintenance diagnostics on components of PCS 100. In some
embodiments, maintenance subsystem 130 performs tests on the PCS's
components and/or initiates self-tests of the PCS's components.
Such tests may be performed periodically (e.g., daily, weekly,
monthly, etc.), intermittently, randomly or at other suitable
times. Alternatively or in addition, components of PCS 100 may
perform such tests in response to commands received via network
subsystem 120 (e.g., commands issued by a PCS operator via network
126 or via communications subsystem 180), or in response to other
suitable events.
[0065] Based on the results of such tests, maintenance subsystem
130 may determine whether a tested component is operating properly.
If a tested component is not operating properly, maintenance
subsystem 130 may output data describing the component's
malfunction (e.g., transmit an error code to a PCS operator via
network 126 or communications subsystem 180, display an error
message via display subsystem 170 or user interface subsystem 150,
etc.), take action to resolve the malfunction (e.g., reboot the
malfunctioning component), turn off power to the faulty component
or to the entire PCS (e.g., if the malfunction presents a safety
hazard), etc.
[0066] In some embodiments, maintenance subsystem 130 may be
adapted to control or adjust the operation of power distribution
subsystem 110, for safety purposes or other suitable purposes. As
described above, if a safety hazard is detected, maintenance
subsystem 130 may control power distribution subsystem 110 to
deactivate the PCS 100 or the unsafe component(s). Alternatively,
maintenance subsystem 130 may control power distribution subsystem
110 to "power cycle" or "reboot" a malfunctioning component.
[0067] FIG. 4 shows a schematic of a maintenance subsystem 130, in
accordance with some embodiments. In various embodiments,
maintenance subsystem 130 includes one or more processing devices
400. The processing device(s) may include, without limitation, a
microprocessor, microcontroller, small-board computer, system on a
chip (SoC) (e.g., Qualcomm Snapdragon, Nvidia Tegra, Intel Atom,
Samsung Exynos, Apple A7, Motorola X8, etc.), or other suitable
processing device. The processing device(s) 400 may communicate
with other components of PCS 100 via network subsystem 120 to
perform maintenance tasks, or for other suitable purposes. In some
embodiments, processing device(s) 400 are powered by power
distribution subsystem 110.
[0068] Returning to FIG. 1, in addition to power distribution
subsystem 110, network subsystem 120, and/or maintenance subsystem
130, electronics subsystem 140 may include other components. In
some embodiments, electronics subsystem 140 includes one or more
illumination controllers, which control illumination of one or more
lights coupled to or proximate to the PCS. When lit, the lights
controlled by the illumination controller may illuminate user
interface subsystem 150 or other portions of PCS 100. In some
embodiments, electronics subsystem 140 includes one or more sensor
controllers, which control one or more sensor devices (e.g.,
microphones, cameras, ambient light sensors, pressure sensors,
voltage sensors, environmental sensors, accelerometers, etc.). Such
sensors may be used for any suitable purpose, including, without
limitation, adjusting the brightness of displays and/or lights
based on ambient lighting, surveilling the region proximate to the
PCS (e.g., when an attempt to gain unauthorized access to the PCS
is detected), etc.
[0069] User interface subsystem 150 provides an interactive user
interface, which may be used to access a communication network.
Referring to FIG. 5, user interface subsystem 150 may include one
or more user input devices 552, output devices 554, network modules
556 (e.g., network interface controllers, wireless transceivers,
etc.), processing devices 557, and/or power supply ports 558. The
user input device(s) 552 may include, without limitation, a
touchscreen, touchpad, keyboard, keypad, trackball, one or more
microphones, camera, buttons, switches, etc. The output device(s)
554 may include, without limitation, a display unit (e.g.,
touchscreen, LCD display, etc.), light(s), speaker(s), audio
jack(s) (e.g., headset jacks, including microphone), etc. The one
or more network modules 556 may include, without limitation, a 3G
mobile network transceiver, 4G mobile network transceiver, LTE
mobile network transceiver, Wi-Fi transceiver, RFID reader,
Bluetooth transceiver, Near Field Communication (NFC) transceiver,
Ethernet adapter, etc. In some embodiments, at least one of the
network modules 556 may be configured to access network 126 via
network subsystem 120 or to access a communication network via
communications subsystem 180. The one or more processing devices
may include, without limitation, a microprocessor, microcontroller,
small board computer, or system on a chip (SoC) (e.g., Qualcomm
Snapdragon, Nvidia Tegra, Intel Atom, Samsung Exynos, Apple A7,
Motorola X8, etc.). The one or more power supply ports 558 may
include, without limitation, one or more USB charging ports, a
two-prong or three-prong AC power outlet (e.g., providing current
limited AC power at 120 V, 60 Hz), etc.
[0070] User interface subsystem 150 may enhance users' access to
communication networks in several ways. In some embodiments, user
interface subsystem 150 may provide users access to communication
networks (e.g., the Internet) via network module(s) 556. For
example, a user may provide inputs via user input device(s) 552 to
control a web browser or other network-based application executing
on processing device(s) 557, which may access a communication
network via network module(s) 556. The data obtained from the
communication network may be processed by processing device(s) 557
and provided to the user via output device(s) 554. As another
example, a user may connect a computing device (e.g., a mobile
computing device) to user interface subsystem 150 via a network
module 556 (e.g., a Wi-Fi access point), and access a communication
network via another network module 556 (e.g., a mobile network
transceiver), via communications subsystem 180, or via network 126.
As yet another example, users may charge mobile computing devices
via power supply port(s) 558, and access communication networks
through the charged devices.
[0071] In some embodiments, PCS 100 includes an assisted listening
unit that transmits the PCS's audio outputs to hearing assistance
devices (e.g., hearing aids, Cochlear implants, etc.) within the
assisted listening unit's range via a "hearing loop" (e.g., an
"audio induction loop" or "audio-frequency induction loop"). The
assisted listening unit may include a loop coil and a loop
amplifier adapted to drive amplified signals into the loop coil,
thereby creating a magnetic field that delivers the amplified
signals to hearing assistance devices within the unit's range. The
loop coil may be included in or located proximate to user interface
subsystem 150, or disposed at another suitable location in, on, or
near PCS 100.
[0072] In some embodiments, user interface subsystem 150 includes
an interface for adjusting the assisted listening unit (e.g., for
increasing or decreasing the signal strength or range of the
assisted listening unit). The assisted listening unit's interface
may include, without limitation, one or more buttons, dials,
switches, and/or software-based interfaces. By adjusting the
assisted listening unit, a user may control the range of the
assisted listening unit and/or the volume of the audio output
provided by the assisted listening unit.
[0073] In some embodiments, user interface subsystem 150 includes
interface components for placing a phone call. User interface
subsystem may implement the phone calls using voice-over-IP (VOIP)
technology. The user's speech may be captured via the user
interface subsystem's microphone, and the speech of other parties
to the phone call may be provided via the user interface
subsystem's speaker(s). In some embodiments, the user interface
subsystem 150 permits users to place phone calls to emergency
responders (e.g., E911 calls). The E911 calls may be placed using
VOIP technology (e.g., via a network module 556 of user interface
150, via communications subsystem 180, or via network 126) or
another suitable technology.
[0074] In some embodiments, the user input devices 552 include a
microphone system, and the processing device 557 is able to perform
noise cancellation on the microphone system. It can be appreciated
that the PCS may be located in an environment with high levels of
ambient street noise. The processing device 557 may perform a noise
cancelling process that distinguishes the user's speech from the
background noise and removes at least some of the background noise
from the audio stream. When a user plugs in a headset that contains
a microphone, the noise cancellation technique may also detect and
remove background noise picked up by the headset's microphone.
[0075] FIG. 6 shows an exemplary schematic of the user interface
subsystem 150, in accordance with some embodiments. In some
embodiments, user interface subsystem 150 includes one or more
processing devices 600. The processing device(s) 600 may include,
without limitation, a microprocessor, microcontroller, small-board
computer, system on a chip (SoC) (e.g., Qualcomm Snapdragon, Nvidia
Tegra, Intel Atom, Samsung Exynos, Apple A7, Motorola X8, etc.), or
other suitable processing device. The processing device(s) 600 may
communicate with other components of PCS 100 via network subsystem
120. In some embodiments, processing device(s) 600 are powered by
power distribution subsystem 110.
[0076] In the example of FIG. 6, user interface subsystem 150
includes a keypad 601, headset jack 602, speaker 603, two
microphones (604, 605), and an E911 button 606, all of which are
coupled to the processing device(s) 600. Processing device(s) 600
may be adapted to initiate an E911 communication when E911 button
606 is pressed, and to send and receive E911 messages via a
wireless communication module 607 (e.g., a 3G, 4G, or LTE mobile
network transceiver, including a suitable antenna, which may be
located proximate to the top of the PCS).
[0077] In some embodiments, the E911 button contains an indicator.
One example of the indicator is an illumination ring. The
illumination ring may help a user to locate the button at night,
and/or may flash when a user presses the button to indicate a E911
call is in progress.
[0078] In the example of FIG. 6, user interface subsystem 150
includes a touchscreen 612, display 614, camera 616, hearing loop
coil 618, hearing loop amplifier 619, and USB charging port(s) 620.
In some embodiments, the touchscreen 612, display 614, camera 616,
and hearing loop coil 618 may be packaged together in a tablet
computing device 610. The USB charging port(s) 620 and hearing loop
amplifier 619 may be powered by power distribution subsystem
110.
[0079] Returning to FIG. 1, temperature control subsystem 160
controls the temperature within PCS 100. For example, temperature
control subsystem 160 may cool the components of PCS 100. Some of
the PCS's components generate heat and the PCS 100 may absorb heat
from its environment (e.g., via radiation or convection),
particularly when the ambient temperature is high or the PCS is
exposed to direct sunlight. Extreme heat can interfere with the
operation of the PCS or even permanently damage some of the PCS's
components.
[0080] Alternatively or in addition, temperature control system 160
may, under appropriate conditions, heat the components of PCS 100.
Some PCSs may be located in cold environments (e.g., outdoors in
regions with cold ambient temperatures). Like extreme heat, extreme
cold can interfere with the PCS's operation or damage its
components.
[0081] Temperature control subsystem 160 may include one or more
components suitable for heating and/or cooling the PCS. In some
embodiments, temperature control subsystem 160 includes one or more
fans operable to circulate ambient air through the PCS, which can
cool the PCS. In some embodiments, the PCS 100 includes one or more
heat sinks, and the ambient air circulated by temperature control
subsystem 160 passes proximate to the heat sink(s). In some
embodiments, temperature control subsystem 160 includes one or more
fans operable to recirculate air in portions (e.g., airtight
compartments) of PCS 100, which can facilitate the transfer of heat
from those portions of the PCS to other regions of the PCS and/or
to the ambient environment. The fans may be single-speed fans or
variable-speed fans. In some embodiments, temperature control
subsystem 160 includes one or more heaters, which can heat the PCS.
In some embodiments, one or more fans and/or heaters are located
apart from temperature control subsystem 160, but controlled by the
temperature control subsystem.
[0082] Temperature control subsystem 160 may control the PCS's
temperature by controlling the operation of the fan(s) and/or
heater(s). In some embodiments, temperature control subsystem 160
controls the PCS's temperature based, at least in part, on the
temperature inside or in an area proximate to the PCS. Temperature
control subsystem 160 may obtain temperature information regarding
the temperature in or near PCS 100 from one or more temperature
sensors. The temperature sensors may be located inside the PCS, on
an outer surface of the PCS, proximate to the PCS, and/or in any
other suitable location. Temperature control subsystem 160 may
include one or more sensor drivers that can activate the sensor(s)
and obtain temperature measurements from the sensor(s).
Alternatively or in addition, temperature control subsystem may
obtain temperature information regarding the temperature in the
vicinity of the PCS from a suitable source (e.g., a website) via a
communication network (e.g., network 126).
[0083] In some embodiments, the temperature control system 160 adds
or removes active fans (e.g. switches fans on or off) in specific
areas of the PCS based on the temperature sensor information. For
example, active fans may be added when the ambient temperature is
high (e.g., above a threshold). Conversely, active fans may be
removed when the ambient temperature is low (e.g., below a
threshold) to reduce power usage. The fans may be organized in
addressable groups to facilitate addition and removal of active
fans.
[0084] In some embodiments, the temperature control subsystem 160
uses a feedback-based control system (e.g., a feedback loop) to
control the speeds of the fans. The fans may include tachometers,
and the tachometer outputs may be fed back to the temperature
control subsystem, which may use the tachometer outputs to
determine the speeds of the fans. In addition to adding and
removing active fans, the temperature control subsystem 160 may
increase the speeds of the fans as the internal temperature
increases or decrease the speeds of the fans as the temperature
decreases.
[0085] In some embodiments, the temperature control subsystem 160
uses the fan tachometer output to determine whether a fan fault has
occurred. For example, the temperature control subsystem 160 may
detect a fan fault when the tachometer output indicates that there
is little or no fan rotation (e.g., the rate of fan rotation is
below a threshold). When a fan fault is detected, the PCS may
notify the maintenance center of the fault, so the PCS can be
serviced to replace or repair the faulty fan.
[0086] In some embodiments, temperature control subsystem 160
controls the PCS's temperature based on environmental information,
which may include temperature information and/or other information
associated with the PCS's environment. For example, environmental
information may include sunlight information indicating whether the
PCS is exposed to direct sunlight. Sunlight information may be
obtained from a camera or other suitable optical sensor.
Alternatively or in addition, environmental information may include
humidity information indicating the humidity levels in the PCS's
environment, time-of-day information indicating the current time at
the PCS's location, weather information indicating the weather in
the PCS's environment, etc.
[0087] Based on the environmental information, temperature control
subsystem 160 may control the fan(s) and/or heater(s) to adjust the
PCS's temperature. In some embodiments, temperature control
subsystem 160 may activate one or more heaters when the PCS's
temperature is below a lower threshold temperature, and/or activate
one or more fans when the PCS's temperature is above an upper
threshold temperature. In some embodiments, the number of heater
units and/or fans activated by temperature control subsystem 160 is
determined based on the environmental information. In some
embodiments, the settings of the activated heaters and/or fans
(e.g., the fan speeds, the heater temperatures, etc.) may be
determined based on the environmental information. In some
embodiments, if the temperature in the PCS is determined to be
outside a safe operating range, temperature control subsystem may
instruct power distribution subsystem 110 to deactivate the PCS or
at least one component thereof.
[0088] Display subsystem 170 includes one or more display modules,
each of which includes at least one display device. The display
device may include, without limitation, a liquid crystal display
(LCD), light-emitting diode (LED) display, organic light-emitting
diode (OLED) display, cathode ray tube (CRT), electroluminescent
display (ELD), electronic paper/electronic ink display (e.g., a
bi-stable or multi-stable electrophoretic or electro-wetting
display), plasma display, thin-film transistor (TFT) display, 3D
display (e.g., volumetric display, holographic display, integral
imaging display, compressive light field display, etc.),
stereoscopic display, etc. In some embodiments, display subsystem
170 includes two display modules disposed on opposite sides of the
PCS, such that the modules' display devices face in opposite
directions.
[0089] A display device may display suitable information,
including, without limitation, news information, weather
information, emergency information (e.g., instructions for dealing
with an emergency, evacuation routes, etc.), travel information
(e.g., traffic conditions, road conditions, speed limits,
alternative route information, public transit schedules, locations
of and/or directions to public transportation facilities, etc.),
tourism information (e.g., locations of and/or directions to
popular tourist attractions), advertisements, etc. The displayed
information may be displayed in one or more suitable formats,
including, without limitation, text, still images, and/or video.
Display subsystem 170 may include one or more processing devices
adapted to control the display of information by the display
device(s). For example, each display module may include a
processing device adapted to control the display module's display
device.
[0090] In some embodiments, display subsystem 170 includes one or
more cameras. For example, each display module may include one or
more cameras. Display subsystem 170 may use the cameras to
determine the ambient light levels, and may adjust the brightness
of the display device(s) accordingly. For example, if the ambient
light level at the PCS is high (e.g., because the sun is shining on
the PCS), display subsystem 170 may increase the brightness of the
display(s) (e.g., by increasing the brightness of the display
backlight(s)), so that the displayed information is readily
viewable by onlookers or passers-by. On the other hand, if the
ambient light level at the PCS is low, display subsystem 170 may
decrease the brightness of the display(s), to reduce the display
subsystem's power usage and/or heat generation. In some
embodiments, the brightness levels of the PCS's displays may be
controlled independently.
[0091] Alternatively or in addition, display subsystem 170 may use
the cameras to obtain information about "potential viewers" (e.g.,
people viewing the PCS, viewing a display device of the PCS, using
the PCS, and/or in the vicinity of the PCS). In some embodiments,
display subsystem 170 may determine, based on images of the area
proximate to the PCS (e.g., images acquired by the PCS's
camera(s)), a potential viewer's apparent demographic information,
including, without limitation, age, sex, race/ethnicity, etc. In
some embodiments, display subsystem 170 may use facial-recognition
techniques to determine a potential viewer's identity.
[0092] Display subsystem 170 may use information about the PCS's
potential viewers to select the information to be displayed by the
display device(s) (e.g., to select advertisements for display based
on the identities or demographics of the potential viewers).
Alternatively or in addition, display subsystem 170 may track the
identities and/or demographics of the potential viewers who have
been in the vicinity of the PCS when particular advertisements have
been displayed. Tracking information about potential viewers of
advertisements and/or controlling the display of advertisements
based on information about the potential viewers may increase the
value of the PCS's advertising impressions to potential
advertisers.
[0093] Display subsystem 170 may obtain information about a
potential viewer from the potential viewer, from analysis of images
of the potential viewer, and/or from the potential viewer's
computing device (e.g., smartphone). For example, a potential
viewer who connects to a communication network through a PCS 100
(e.g., via user interface subsystem 150 or via the user's computing
device) may provide authentication data (e.g., a username,
password, and/or other credentials), and the PCS may use that
authentication data to access the potential viewer's account
information, which may identify the potential viewer and/or provide
information about the potential viewer (e.g., the potential
viewer's attributes and/or interests). The potential viewer may
have provided such information when registering for access to the
PCS (or set of PCSs), or the PCS may have inferred such information
based on the potential viewer's activities on the communication
network.
[0094] Even if potential viewers do not register for PCS access,
information about a potential viewer's attributes and/or interests
can still be inferred based on the potential viewer's activities,
and this information can be tracked in connection with information
identifying the potential viewer's computing device (e.g., a mobile
device's phone number, mobile equipment identifier (MEID), or
unique device identifier (UDID); a computing device's media access
control (MAC) address; etc.). In some embodiments, a PCS 100 may
identify a potential viewer or attributes thereof based on
identifying information transmitted by the potential viewer's
computing device when the computing device is within range of the
PCS, even if the computing device is not connected to a network via
the PCS 100.
[0095] FIG. 7 is a schematic of a display module 700, in accordance
with some embodiments. In some embodiments, a PCS 100 includes two
display modules 700. In some embodiments, a display module 700
includes one or more processing device(s) 710. Each processing
device 710 may include, without limitation, a microprocessor,
microcontroller, small-board computer, system on a chip (SoC)
(e.g., Qualcomm Snapdragon, Nvidia Tegra, Intel Atom, Samsung
Exynos, Apple A7, Motorola X8, etc.), or other suitable processing
device. The processing device(s) 710 may communicate with other
components of PCS 100 via network subsystem 120. In some
embodiments, each processing device 710 is powered by power
distribution subsystem 110. In the example of FIG. 7, display
module 700 also includes a display device 720. Display device 720
may include a display panel 721, ambient light sensor 722, two
cameras (723, 724), temperature sensor 725, frame rate controller
726, power/backlight controller 727, and one or more fans 728.
[0096] In some embodiments, the processing device 710 is able to
read the ambient light sensor 722 and send a control signal to the
power/backlight controller 727. One example of the control signal
is a pulse width modulated (PWM) output. In response to the ambient
light sensor 722 detecting the presence of high ambient light, the
duty cycle of the PWM signal may be increased, thereby causing the
power/backlight controller to increase the backlight brightness, so
that the display image is viewable in bright sunlight. Those
skilled in the art can appreciate that the PWM control signal may
be digital or converted to an analog output via a digital to analog
converter.
[0097] Returning to FIG. 1, communications subsystem 180 includes
one or more communication modules. In some embodiments, the
communication module(s) include one or more radio access nodes. The
radio access node(s) may include small cells (e.g., low-power radio
access nodes with ranges between roughly 10 m and 1-2 km,
including, but not limited to, femtocells, picocells, and
microcells), macrocells (e.g., radio access nodes with ranges of up
to a few tens of kilometers), etc. The radio access node(s) may
reduce congestion in mobile data networks (e.g., 3G, 4G, or LTE
networks) by expanding network capacity and offloading traffic from
more congested portions of the network to the portions of the
network associated with the radio access node(s). In areas where
mobile data networks are highly congested (e.g., portions of New
York City, and particularly portions of Manhattan), deploying PCSs
with radio access node(s) in an area where mobile data networks are
congested may, in some embodiments, greatly reduce network
congestion and improve quality of service for many network
users.
[0098] In some embodiments, communications subsystem 180 includes
at least one wireless access point. Computing devices may connect
to the wireless access point using a suitable wireless adapter,
including, without limitation, a Wi-Fi or WiMAX adapter. Through
the wireless access point, communications subsystem 180 may provide
access to a local area network (LAN) or wide area network (WAN)
(e.g., network 126, or a 3G, 4G, or LTE network accessed via the
communications subsystem's radio access node(s)). PCS operators may
use the wireless access points to provide wireless broadband
network access to individuals, subscribers, communities, etc. Use
of the wireless access points may further improve the quality of
service on mobile data networks by offloading some users from the
mobile data networks to the wireless access point.
[0099] Returning to FIG. 1, mounting subsystem 190 includes a
mounting device that releasably secures the PCS to a support (e.g.,
a footing). The mounting device may be adapted to break when a
shear force above a predetermined value is applied to the mounting
device, thereby allowing the PCS to move. Such releasable mounting
can reduce the damage caused to people and property when an
automobile collides with the PCS.
[0100] PCS 100 may include compartments and components of PCS 100
may be disposed in the compartments. FIG. 8 illustrates an
arrangement of compartments of a PCS 100, according to some
embodiments. For convenience, the PCS's top portion 805 and base
portion 806 are identified in FIG. 8, as is the PCS's height
807.
[0101] In the example of FIG. 8, PCS 100 includes mounting
compartment 890, electronics compartment 840, user interface
compartment 850, air intake compartment 865, display compartment
870, and communications compartment 880. Electronics compartment
840 may enclose electronics subsystem 140. User interface
compartment 850, display compartment 870, and communications
compartment 880 may enclose user interface subsystem 150, display
subsystem 170, and communications subsystem 180, respectively. In
some embodiments, display compartment 870 may enclose, in addition
to display subsystem 870, one or more heat sinks. Mounting
compartment 890 may enclose at least a portion of a mounting
subsystem 190.
[0102] Air intake compartment 865 may enclose at least portions of
temperature control subsystem 160. In some embodiments, air intake
compartment 865 may enclose one or more fans, which may draw
ambient air into the air intake area. In some embodiments, the one
or more fans may also draw air into the air intake area from
electronics compartment 840. The fans may move the air through
display compartment 870 (e.g., across one or more heat sinks), and
the air may be discharged through an exhaust in communications
compartment 880. In some embodiments, air intake compartment 865
may enclose one or more heaters.
[0103] In the example of FIG. 8, communications compartment 880 is
located proximate to the top 805 of the PCS, display compartment
870 is disposed along an upper portion of the PCS and below
communications compartment 880, and an air intake compartment 865
is located proximate to a middle portion of the PCS (in the
direction of the PCS's height) and below display compartment 870.
Mounting compartment 890 is located proximate a base 806 of the
PCS, electronics compartment 840 is disposed along a lower portion
of the PCS between mounting compartment 890 and air intake
compartment 865, and user interface compartment 850 is disposed
along a lower portion of the PCS adjacent to air intake compartment
865 and electronics compartment 840.
[0104] Embodiments of a PCS are not limited by the
compartmentalization scheme illustrated in FIG. 8. A PCS may
include none of the compartments illustrated in FIG. 8, any
combination of the compartments illustrated in FIG. 8, and/or other
compartments not illustrated in FIG. 8. In cases where a PCS
includes a compartment illustrated in FIG. 8 (e.g., mounting
compartment 890, electronics compartment 840, user interface
compartment 850, air intake compartment 865, display compartment
870, or communications compartment 880), the location and/or shape
of that compartment may differ from the location and/or shape of
the corresponding compartment in FIG. 8. In some embodiments, a PCS
may include a compartment that encloses two or more PCS subsystems
that are enclosed by different compartments in the example of FIG.
8. In some embodiments, a PCS may include separate compartments
enclosing respective portions of a PCS subsystem that is enclosed
by a single compartment in the example of FIG. 8. In some
embodiments, a PCS may include a compartment that encloses other
compartments.
[0105] FIGS. 9A, 9B, and 9C show respective front perspective,
side, and exploded front perspective views of a PCS 100, in
accordance with some embodiments. For convenience, the PCS's top
portion 805 and base portion 806 are identified in FIGS. 9A-9B, as
are the PCS's height 807, width 908, and length 909.
[0106] As can be seen in FIG. 9C, PCS 100 may include a frame 1000.
The frame 1000 is (or is part of) a structural system that supports
the components of PCS 100. In some embodiments, the frame 1000
forms portions of the PCS's compartments (e.g., communications
compartment 880, display compartment 870, air intake compartment
865, user interface compartment 850, electronics compartment 840,
and mounting compartment 890).
[0107] As can further be seen in FIG. 9C, communications
compartment 880 may include a radio access node 981 and a wireless
access point 983. The bottom of communications compartment 880 may
be formed by a portion of frame 1000, and the top and sides of
communications compartment 880 may be formed by a removable cap
985.
[0108] Display compartment 870 may include a heat sink 903 and a
display module 700. In some embodiments, display compartment 870
includes a second display module (and, optionally, a second heat
sink) arranged back-to-back (e.g., in parallel) with display module
700 and heat sink 903, such that display module 700 and the second
display module face in opposite directions.
[0109] Air intake compartment 865 may include an air intake
assembly 967. The air intake assembly 967 may include a grill, a
filter, and a fan assembly. User interface compartment 850 may
include a user interface device 951. The user interface device 951
may include a table computer, keypad, an emergency call button,
microphone(s), speakers, and a mobile device charging port.
Electronics compartment 840 may include an electronics cabinet 941,
and may be formed by portions of frame 1000 and a cover panel 943.
Mounting compartment 890 may at least partially enclose mounting
subsystem 190, and may be formed by portions of frame 1000 and a
cover panel 991.
[0110] FIGS. 10A-10C show the frame 1000 of a PCS 100, according to
some embodiments, and illustrate how the frame 1000 partially forms
the PCS's compartments. In some embodiments, the frame 1000 is the
frame of a monocoque structure, wherein the frame supports the
components, forms the compartments and is also the outer face (or
"skin") of portions of the PCS (e.g., the user interface
compartment 850 and the opposing side 1050 of the PCS). This
approach may simplify construction by reducing the number of
brackets, mounting accessories, part count, etc.
[0111] In another embodiment, the frame 1000 is that of a
traditional structure, and the outer skins are attached to the
frame. In such embodiments, the frame supports the components of
the PCS, forms the compartments of the PCS, and acts as a rigid
structural chassis. One advantage of this approach is field
replaceability. If an outer skin is damaged (e.g., by vandalism or
by ordinary wear and tear), the damaged skin can be replaced with a
new skin. As long as the frame remains uncompromised, damaged outer
skins can be removed, replaced, and (optionally) sent to a service
facility for refurbishing. Refurbishing methods may include
removing dents and/or scratches, sanding, texturing, reshaping,
and/or re-painting. Skins that are not suitable for refurbishing
(e.g., due to extensive damage) may be recycled and turned into new
parts.
[0112] As can be seen in FIGS. 10A-10C, frame 1000 may include a
bottom member 1001a, a lower front member 1001b, a cross-frame
member 1001c, an upper front member 1001d, a rear member 1001e, and
a top member 1001f. In the example of FIGS. 10A-10C, lower portions
of lower front member 1001b and rear member 1001e are joined to
opposite sides of bottom member 1001a. One side of cross-frame
member 1001c is joined to an upper portion of lower front member
1001b and a lower portion of upper front member 1001d. The opposite
side of cross-frame member 1001c is joined to rear member 1001e
proximate to a midpoint between the rear member's top and base
ends. The upper portions of upper front member 1001d and rear
member 1001e are joined to opposite sides of top member 1001f.
[0113] In the example of FIGS. 10A-10C, top member 1001f and the
upper portion of upper front member 1001d form a bottom and a side
of communications compartment 880. Two sides of display compartment
870 are formed by upper front member 1001d and rear member 1001e,
and the top and bottom of display compartment 870 are formed by top
member 1001f and cross-frame member 1001c, respectively.
Cross-frame member 1001c forms the top, bottom, and two sides of
air intake compartment 865. User interface compartment 850 is
formed in part by the bottom portion of upper front member 1001d,
the top portion of lower front member 1001b, and a side of
cross-frame member 1001c. Two sides of electronics compartment 840
are formed by lower front member 1001b and the lower portion of
rear member 1001e, and the top and bottom of electronics
compartment 840 are formed by cross-frame member 1001c and bottom
member 1001a, respectively. Bottom member 1001a forms mounting
compartment 890.
[0114] Embodiments of frame 1000 are not limited by the
configuration shown in FIGS. 10A-10C. As can be seen in FIG. 11,
which shows a front-perspective view of a portion of PCS 100, some
embodiments of frame 1000 further include one or more cross-frame
members 1001g coupled to upper front member 1001d and an upper
portion of rear member 1001e to form an I-beam. In some
embodiments, cross-frame member(s) 1001g may include one or more
ribbed heat sinks 1161. A ribbed heat sink 1161 may include a
substantially planar member 1163 and fins 1162 extending from the
substantially planar member 1163 (e.g., in one or more directions
substantially perpendicular to the surface of the substantially
planar member).
[0115] Frame 1000 may facilitate cooling of the PCS's compartments.
In some embodiments, one or more (e.g., all) members of frame 1000
may have relatively high thermal conductivity (e.g., average
thermal conductivity of at least 90, 100, 110, or 120
Btu/(hr*.degree. F.*ft)). When the temperature within a PCS
compartment is greater than the ambient temperature in the area
proximate to the PCS, the frame member(s) with relatively high
thermal conductivity may function as heat sinks (including, but not
limited to, cross-frame member(s) 1001g), such that heat from the
compartments is transferred to the PCS's ambient environment
through the frame member(s). The member(s) of frame 1000 with
relatively high thermal conductivity may substantially consist of
materials with relatively high thermal conductivity, including,
without limitation, aluminum, thermal pyrolytic graphite, silicon
carbide, etc. For example, one or more member(s) of frame 1000 may
substantially consist of aluminum.
[0116] Members of frame 1000 may be manufactured using suitable
techniques. In some embodiments, bottom member 1001a, lower front
member 1001b, cross-frame member 1001c, cross-frame member(s)
1001g, and/or top member 1001f may be metal castings. In some
embodiments, upper front member 1001d and/or rear member 1001e may
be extruded metal, polymer, composite, etc.
[0117] Referring to FIGS. 12A-12C, portions of a PCS's frame 1000
and/or compartments may be covered by ribbed panels 1200. The
ribbed panels 1200 may discourage vandalism of PCS 100, since the
panel ribs might offer a less appealing target for drawing,
painting, or etching than other, smoother surfaces. In addition,
the ribbed panels may be swappable, as shown in FIG. 12B, such that
a damaged or vandalized panel could be quickly replaced with a
pristine panel.
[0118] Referring to FIG. 12C, a ribbed panel 1200 may include a
substantially planar member 1202 and a set of ribs 1204 extending
from the planar member. In some embodiments, the angle 1206 between
the outer surface of a rib and the outer surface of the planar
member is between approximately 95.degree. and 115.degree.. In some
embodiments, the thickness 1208 of a rib 1204 at the rib's base may
be between approximately 0.25'' and 0.5'' and the width 1210 of a
rib 1204 may be between approximately 0.3'' and 0.6''. Other
dimensions may be used.
Techniques for Controlling the Temperature of a PCS
[0119] According to an aspect of the present disclosure, the
temperature of a personal communication structure (PCS) 100 is
controlled, which can facilitate proper operation of the PCS's
components and prevent damage to the PCS's components. FIG. 13
illustrates a system 1300 for controlling the temperature of a PCS,
according to some embodiments. Temperature control system 1300 may
use ambient-air-based cooling techniques (e.g., ambient-air
ventilation, air circulation, etc.) to cool the PCS's components,
which can be less expensive and more reliable than liquid-based
cooling techniques or refrigerant-based cooling techniques. In some
embodiments, the temperature control system 1300 may use less power
(e.g., significantly less power) than liquid-based or
refrigerant-based cooling techniques. In some embodiments, the
temperature control system may be more compact than liquid-based or
refrigerant-based cooling systems, and therefore may be more
suitable for use in a PCS 100 that has a slim profile.
[0120] In some embodiments, temperature control system 1300
includes the PCS's frame 1000, one or more vents 1350, one or more
temperature sensors 1340, and one or more fans 1360. The frame 1000
may directly or indirectly transfer heat from the PCS's
compartments to the PCS's ambient environment. The vent(s) 1350 may
allow air to enter or exit the PCS, or to move between compartments
in the PCS. The fan(s) 1360 may circulate air between or within
portions of the PCS, draw air into the PCS, or exhaust air from the
PCS.
[0121] The temperature sensor(s) 1340 may be located in or on the
PCS and adapted to measure the temperature of the PCS or portions
thereof (e.g., compartments, components, etc.). In some
embodiments, a temperature sensor 1340d is located in electronics
compartment 840 (e.g., communicatively coupled to and controlled by
processing device(s) 400 of maintenance subsystem 130). In some
embodiments, a temperature sensor 1340c is located in user
interface compartment 850 (e.g., communicatively coupled to and
controlled by processing device(s) 600 of user interface subsystem
150 or processing device(s) 400 of maintenance subsystem 130). In
some embodiments, temperature sensors 1340a and 1340b are located
in display compartment 870 (e.g., in display modules 700a and 700b,
respectively). In some embodiments, a temperature sensor 1340f is
located in the communications compartment 880 to monitor the
temperature of devices (e.g., RF devices) in the communications
subsystem 180. In some embodiments, a temperature sensor 1340g is
located proximate to an air intake grill of the air intake
compartment 865 (e.g., the temperature sensor 1340g may be located
in the air intake compartment 865 and proximate to the air intake
grill). The temperature measurement from sensor 1340g therefore may
be indicative of the ambient temperature outside the PCS 100. A
temperature sensor associated with a display module 700 may be
communicatively coupled to and controlled by processing device(s)
710 of the display module 700 or processing device(s) 400 of
maintenance subsystem 130. Each of temperature sensors 1340 may
include, without limitation, a thermistor (e.g., a Negative
Temperature Coefficient (NTC) thermistor or Positive Temperature
Coefficient (PTC) thermistor), thermocouple, resistance
thermometer, silicon bandgap temperature sensor, and/or any other
suitable temperature sensor. As just one example, one or more
temperature sensors 1340 may include a 10 kOhm NTC thermistor.
[0122] In some embodiments, temperature control system 1300
includes a temperature control subsystem 160. Temperature control
subsystem 160 may include a temperature control module 1302, an
intake module 1320, a heater module 1330, and a heat sink 903. The
temperature control module 1302 may determine the PCS's temperature
(e.g., based on data provided by the temperature sensor(s) 1340
and/or other suitable data), and control the operation of PCS
components (e.g., user interface subsystem 150, display subsystem
170, power distribution subsystem 110, intake module 1320, heater
module 1330, fans 1360, etc.) to keep the temperature of the PCS
within a desired range, or to keep the temperatures of portions of
the PCS within desired ranges. Intake module 1320 may include one
or more fans adapted to circulate air within and/or through the
PCS. Heater module 1330 may include one or more heating elements
disposed within or on the PCS, which can heat the interior of the
PCS. Techniques for controlling the PCS's temperature are described
in further detail below.
[0123] As described above with reference to FIGS. 9-10, some
embodiments of the frame 1000 of PCS 100 can facilitate cooling of
the PCS by transferring heat from the PCS's compartments to the
PCS's ambient environment. The frames of conventional kiosks are
generally made of stainless steel, galvanized steel, and/or other
materials that have relatively strong structural properties but
relatively low thermal conductivity. Such frames generally do not
facilitate efficient transfer of heat from the kiosk's interior to
the kiosk's ambient environment. By contrast, as described above,
one or more (e.g., all) members of frame 1000 may have relatively
high thermal conductivity, such that frame 1000 functions as a heat
sink that transfers heat from the PCS's components to the PCS's
ambient environment. In some embodiments, one or more (e.g., all)
members of frame 1000 may be made of aluminum or an aluminum
alloy.
[0124] Measures may be taken to enhance the strength or durability
of frame 1000. In some embodiments, one or more treatments may be
applied to the frame 1000 or to members thereof to increase the
frame's structural strength or durability. Such treatments may
include, without limitation, applying an aluminum chromate
conversion coating, epoxy-priming, wet-painting, clear-coating,
etc. In some embodiments, the frame's members may be arranged to
increase the frame's structural strength. As can be seen in FIGS.
10A-10C and 11, frame 1000 may be cross-braced in one or more
locations (e.g., at the PCS's base by bottom member 1001a, at the
top of the PCS by top member 1001f, at the air intake compartment
by cross-frame member 1001c, and at the display compartment by
cross-frame member(s) 1001g).
[0125] Returning to FIG. 13, temperature control system 1300 of PCS
100 may include one or more vents 1350. In some embodiments, the
vents are arranged as shown in FIGS. 14A-E. As can be seen in the
exploded perspective view of FIG. 14A, PCS 100 may include a vent
1350a between the mounting compartment 890 and the electronics
compartment 840, a vent 1350b between the electronics compartment
840 and the air intake compartment 865, and a vent 1350d between
the air intake compartment 865 and the display compartment 870.
[0126] In some embodiments, PCS 100 includes a vent 1350c1 between
user interface compartment 850 and display compartment 870, and/or
a vent 1350c2 between user interface compartment 850 and
electronics compartment 840. One possible arrangement of vents 1350
associated with user interface compartment 850 is shown in FIGS.
14B-C. In the example of FIGS. 14B-C, vents 1350c1 and 1350c2 are
formed in the frame 1000 of the PCS, and user interface subsystem
150 includes a housing 1410, which includes a vent 1350c3 in
communication with user interface compartment 850. Alternatively or
in addition, PCS 100 may include a vent between user interface
compartment 850 and air intake compartment 865.
[0127] Returning to FIG. 13, temperature control system 1300 of PCS
100 may include a vent 1350e between display compartment 870 and
communications compartment 880. One possible configuration of vent
1350e is shown in FIG. 14D, which illustrates a top view of PCS 100
with some components of communications compartment 880 not shown
for clarity. In the example of FIG. 14D, vent 1350e is formed in
top member 1001f of frame 1000 between display compartment 870 and
communications compartment 880.
[0128] Returning to FIG. 13, temperature control system 1300 may
include an intake vent (not shown in FIG. 13) between air intake
compartment 865 and the ambient environment, and an exhaust vent
1350f between communications compartment 890 and the ambient
environment. In some embodiments, the intake vent 1350g and exhaust
vent 1350f are arranged as shown in FIG. 14E. The intake and
exhaust vents may be covered by respective intake and exhaust
grills, to prevent unauthorized access to the PCS's components. The
rear exhaust vent 1350f may direct warm air away from the PCS 100
toward the street or another area where people would not usually be
standing. This exhaust configuration avoids having warm air being
blown down around the PCS (e.g., the base of the PCS), which could
attract bystanders on cold days.
[0129] In some embodiments, air intake module 1320 includes one or
more air intake assemblies. In some embodiments, air intake module
1320 includes two air intake assemblies 967 disposed adjacent to
each other, on opposite sides of PCS 100. FIG. 15 shows an exploded
front perspective view of one air intake assembly 967, according to
some embodiments. Air intake assembly 967 may be at least partially
enclosed in air intake compartment 865 and may implement a portion
of temperature control subsystem 160. In some embodiments, air
intake assembly 967 includes a grill 1502, a filter 1506, and a fan
assembly 1504. The grill 1502 may be secured to the PCS by security
fasteners 1508. The filter 1506 may be a semi-permeable membrane
suitable for passing air while filtering out unwanted particles
(e.g., moisture particles, etc.).
[0130] Fan assembly 1504 includes one or more fans 1510 (e.g.,
three fans 1510, as shown in the example of FIG. 15). The fans 1510
may be powered by power distribution subsystem 110. In some
embodiments, one or more of the fans 1510 may be adaptable to
provide different airflow rates (e.g., by adjusting the rate of
rotation of a fan's blades). A fan's airflow rate may be controlled
by an input signal. For example, a fan 1510 may be powered by a
pulse-width modulated (PWM) signal, and the airflow rate through
the fan may increase as the duty cycle of the PWM power signal
increases. As another example, the fan may have a control input,
which may select between multiple fan speeds.
[0131] In some embodiments, the fans 1510 provide tachometer
outputs. As those skilled in the art can appreciate, the
temperature control system 1300 may determine a fan's speed based
on the fan's tachometer output. The temperature control system 1300
may adjust the duty cycle of the fan's input signal in response to
the tachometer reading, thereby forming a closed loop system.
[0132] In some embodiments, the temperature control system 1300 may
identify a fan fault based on the fan's tachometer reading. For
example, if the duty cycle of the fan's input signal exceeds a duty
cycle threshold (e.g., 50%) but the fan's tachometer output
indicates that the fan's rate of rotation is less than a threshold
rate of rotation or that the fan is not rotating, the system may
determine that the fan has failed. Maintenance system 130 may
report a fan fault to a remote service center, which may dispatch
service personnel to replace the fan 1510.
[0133] In some embodiments, the temperature control system 1300 may
determine that an air intake or exhaust vent is blocked based on
the operation of one or more fans 1510. For example, if a fan 1510
located in the air intake assembly 967 is operating below a
predetermined performance threshold (e.g., the fan's airflow rate
is below an airflow rate threshold), maintenance system 130 may
report to the service center that an air intake vent is blocked.
Likewise, if a fan 1510 located proximate to an exhaust vent 1350f
is operating below a predetermined performance threshold (e.g., the
fan's airflow rate is below an airflow rate threshold), maintenance
system 130 may report to the service center that an exhaust vent is
blocked. It can be appreciated that if air intake or exhaust vents
become blocked, the lack of air flow could result in a serious
temperature hazard for the components of the PCS 100.
[0134] In some embodiments, heater module 1330 includes one or more
heating elements. The heating element(s) may be located in air
intake compartment 865 or in other suitable locations in or on the
PCS. In some embodiments, one or more of the heating elements can
operate at different temperatures. A heating element's temperature
may be controlled by an input signal. For example, the temperature
of a heating element may depend on characteristics of the power
signal applied to the heating element (e.g., amplitude of the power
signal's voltage, frequency of the power signal, duty cycle of a
pulse-width modulated power signal, etc.). As another example, the
heating element may have a control input, which may select between
multiple temperatures.
[0135] In some embodiments, the temperature control system 1300 may
include an automated vent flap and one or more recirculating fans,
which may be used to increase the internal temperature of the PCS
100 by trapping and recirculating heat generated by the PCS's
electronic components. It can be appreciated that some of the PCS's
electronic components may generate considerable heat, and that some
of the electronic components (e.g., display modules 700) may have
lower operating performance at colder temperatures. When the
temperature is below a threshold, temperature controller 160 may
close the vent and turn on the recirculating fans, thereby
recirculating the heat generated by the PCS's electronic components
to allow the temperature inside the PCS 100 to rise. When the
temperature reaches a second, higher threshold, the temperature
control system 1300 may open the vent flap, turn off the
re-circulating fans, and/or turn on the intake fans to allow the
temperature inside the PCS 100 to decrease. The automated vent flap
and recirculating fan(s) may be used in addition to or as an
alternative to the heater module 1330.
[0136] Returning to FIG. 13, display compartment 870 may enclose
one or more display modules 700. FIGS. 16A and 16B show an exploded
perspective view and a side view of a display module 700,
respectively. In some embodiments, display module 700 includes a
housing and a display panel 1604. The housing may include a housing
frame 1602, a covering frame 1606, and a transparent covering 1608.
Display module 700 may be assembled by positioning display panel
1604 in cavity 1610, fastening the display panel to housing frame
1602, and using covering frame 1606 to secure transparent covering
1608 over display panel 1604. Transparent covering 1608 may be a
toughened glass (e.g., Gorilla.RTM. Glass manufactured by Corning,
Inc.).
[0137] Display module 700 may include features that facilitate
control of the temperature of display panel 1604. In some
embodiments, housing frame 1602 includes one or more apertures
1612, which may facilitate heat exchange between display panel 1604
and other portions of the PCS. For example, fins of ribbed heat
sink 903 may be inserted into the aperture(s) 1612 to facilitate
heat transfer from display panel 1604 to heat sink 903.
[0138] In some embodiments, display module 700 includes one or more
fans 1360 arranged to circulate air within the display module's
cavity 1610. The fans may circulate air along the top of display
panel 1604, between a viewing surface of display panel 1604 and
transparent covering 1608, along the bottom of display panel 1604,
and within cavity 1610 behind display panel 1604. In the example of
FIG. 16B, one or more fans 1360x are disposed proximate to the
bottom of display panel 1604 in display module 700, and one or more
fans 1360y are disposed proximate to the top of display panel
1604.
[0139] In some embodiments, display module 700 includes one or more
temperature sensors 1340 (e.g., temperature sensor 725 as shown in
FIG. 7). The temperature sensor(s) may be included as part of
display panel 1604. In some embodiments, if display module 700 or
the temperature control module 1302 determines that the temperature
of the display panel 1604 is above a first threshold, the display
module (or temperature control processor) may decrease the
brightness of the backlight until the temperature of the display
module is below a second threshold.
[0140] Aspects of the operation of temperature control system 1300
are illustrated in FIG. 17, which shows a side view of an upper
portion of PCS 100, in accordance with some embodiments. In the
example of FIG. 17, air is drawn into air intake compartment 865 by
air intake assemblies 967a and 967b. The air may be drawn into air
intake compartment 865 from outside the PCS (e.g., through the
grills of the air intake assemblies), from user interface
compartment 850 (e.g., through vent 1350c), from electronics
compartment 840 and mounting compartment 890 (e.g., through vent
1350b), or from any other portion of PCS 100 in fluid communication
with the air intake assemblies.
[0141] Fan assemblies 1510a-b may discharge the air from air intake
compartment 865 into display compartment 870 (e.g., through vent
1350d). Within display compartment 870, the air may move from the
bottom of the compartment to its top through a cavity formed
between two ribbed heat sinks 903a and 903b. After passing through
the cavity between the heat sinks, the air may enter communications
compartment 880 (e.g., through vent 1350e). Communications
compartment 880 may exhaust the air into the PCS's ambient
environment through vent 1350f. In this manner, circulation of
ambient air through the PCS may exhaust heat generated by the PCS's
components into the ambient environment.
[0142] In the example of FIG. 17, PCS 100 includes two display
modules 700a and 700b. In some embodiments, fins of ribbed heat
sink 903a are inserted through the aperture(s) 1612 in the back of
display module 700a to facilitate cooling of display module 700a.
Furthermore, heat sink 903a and display module 700a may be arranged
such that cavity 1610a within display module 700a is substantially
airtight. For example, a compression seal may be disposed on the
back of display module 700a around the aperture(s) in the display
housing, and the compression seal may form a seal between the
display housing and the heat sink when the fins of the heat sink
are inserted through the aperture(s). Display module 700b and heat
sink 903b may be arranged in substantially the same configuration
as display module 700a and heat sink 903a.
[0143] Making cavity 1610 of display module 700 substantially
airtight may facilitate maintenance of display panel 1604. Many
display panels are not designed to operate in environments where
the air is not clean and conditioned. However, the ambient air
drawn into the PCS through air intake assemblies 967a-b may be
unclean and unconditioned. Thus, sealing the display panels 1604 in
substantially airtight cavities 1610 may limit the display panels'
exposure to harmful particles and other contaminants entrained in
the ambient air.
[0144] Alternatively, in some embodiments, the fins of the ribbed
heat sinks may not be inserted through apertures in the backs of
the display modules. Rather, the fins of the ribbed heat sinks may
be disposed proximate to or in contact with the backs of the
display modules, to facilitate cooling of the display modules. In
such embodiments, the display modules may not include apertures.
Rather, the attachment of transparent covering 1608 to display
frame 1602 may create a substantially airtight cavity 1610 within
the display module. Forming the substantially airtight cavities in
this manner may further protect the display panels from harmful
particles and contaminants, because the substantially airtight
cavities could be sealed in a controlled, clean environment, rather
than being sealed in the PCS's ambient environment. On the other
hand, forming the airtight cavities in this manner may require
additional structure to transfer heat effectively from the display
modules to other portions of display compartment 870.
[0145] In some embodiments, the minimum distance 1710 between the
backs of the display modules 700 may between approximately 1 inches
and approximately 3 inches. In some embodiments, the minimum
distance 1720 between the backs of the display panels 1604 may
between approximately 7 inches and approximately 9 inches. In some
embodiments, the minimum distance 1730 between the viewing surfaces
of the display panels 1604 may be between approximately 10 inches
and approximately 12 inches.
[0146] Returning to FIG. 13, temperature control subsystem 160 may
include a temperature control module 1302 that controls the PCS's
temperature. Temperature control module 1302 may control the PCS's
temperature based on environmental information, including but not
limited to temperature information indicating the temperature in or
near PCS 100. Based on the temperature information, temperature
control module 1302 may determine the temperature of the PCS and/or
of portions of the PCS (e.g., components or compartments of the
PCS) either directly or indirectly.
[0147] Temperature control module 1302 may obtain such temperature
information from temperature sensor(s) 1340. In some embodiments,
temperature control module 1302 includes one or more sensor drivers
that can activate the temperature sensor(s) 1340. When activated,
the temperature sensor(s) may obtain temperature measurements and
provide data indicative of those temperature measurements to
temperature control module 1302. Alternatively or in addition,
other components of PCS 100 (e.g., processor(s) 600 of user
interface subsystem 150; processor(s) 710 of display modules 700;
and/or processor(s) 400 of maintenance subsystem 130) may include
one or more sensor drivers that can activate corresponding
temperature sensors (e.g., temperature sensors 1340c; 1340a-b; and
1340d, f, and g, respectively), and temperature control module 1302
may obtain the temperature information from the PCS components that
drive the temperature sensors. Temperature control module 1302 may
communicate with such components via network subsystem 120. In some
embodiments, temperature control module 1302 may obtain temperature
information regarding the temperature in the vicinity of the PCS
from a suitable source (e.g., a website) via a communication
network (e.g., network 126).
[0148] Temperature control module 1302 may control the PCS's
temperature by controlling the operation of other PCS components,
including, without limitation, heater module 1330, fan(s) 1360,
power distribution subsystem 110, display subsystem 170, etc.
Temperature control module 1302 may communicate with and control
other PCS components via network subsystem 120.
[0149] In some embodiments, temperature control module 1302
activates one or more heating elements when the PCS's temperature
is below a threshold temperature, and/or adjusts the operation of
the heating element(s) based on the PCS's temperature. To activate
the heating element(s) and/or adjust the settings of the heating
element(s), temperature control module 1302 may provide inputs to
power distribution subsystem 110 to control the power provided to
the heater module 1330, thereby controlling the activation and
temperature(s) of the heater module's heating element(s). The power
distribution subsystem 110 may provide power to the heater module
1330 via one or more heater control terminals (e.g., external solid
state relays).
[0150] In some embodiments, temperature control module 1302
activates one or more fans 1360 when the PCS's temperature is above
a threshold temperature, and/or adjusts the operation of the fan(s)
1360 based on the PCS's temperature. To activate the fan(s) 1360
and/or adjust the settings of the fan(s), temperature control
module 1302 may provide inputs to power distribution subsystem 110
to control the power provided to the fan(s) 1360, thereby
controlling the activation and speed(s) of the fan(s).
[0151] In some embodiments, if temperature control module 1302
determines that the temperature in the PCS (or in a portion
thereof) is outside a safe operating range, temperature control
module 1302 may deactivate the PCS (or at least one component
thereof), and/or adjust the operation of the PCS (or at least one
component thereof) to reduce the amount of heat being generated by
the PCS (or the component(s)). For example, if the temperature
control module determines that the temperature of the PCS, the
display compartment 870, or either of the display modules 700 is
above a safe operating range, temperature control module 1302 may
deactivate or dim one or both display modules 700, thereby reducing
the amount of heat generated by the display modules. To deactivate
the PCS or component(s) thereof, or to reduce the heat being
generated by the PCS or component(s) thereof (e.g., by dimming the
display module(s) 700), temperature control module 1302 may send
suitable control signals to power distribution subsystem 110.
[0152] Temperature control module 1302 may include any suitable
hardware and/or software configured to control the temperature of a
PCS. In some embodiments, maintenance subsystem 130 implements
temperature control module 1302. For example, temperature control
module 1302 may include software executing on one or more
processing devices 400 of maintenance subsystem 130. In some
embodiments, temperature control module 1302 is powered by power
distribution system 110.
[0153] In some embodiments, temperature control module 1302
determines a target temperature for the interior of the PCS 100.
The process of determining the target temperature may take into
account the temperatures of at least some of the different
compartments of the PCS 100, and/or the ambient temperature outside
PCS 100. In some embodiments, the process of determining the target
temperature also accounts for the power used by the PCS 100. Those
skilled in the art can appreciate that when the ambient temperature
around the PCS is high (e.g., on hot summer days), the PCS may use
the fans to move large volumes of air to keep the PCS temperature
from continuously rising. In addition, in the presence of high
ambient sunlight, the displays may use substantial backlight power
to make the images viewable, further increasing the temperature of
the PCS. In some embodiments, the temperature control module 1302
balances the PCS's power dissipation against its temperature, so
that the PCS's temperature and power dissipation remain within
acceptable ranges. In some embodiments, the temperature control
module 1302 uses the formula Tt=[P(e.sup.Ta)+10] to calculate the
target temperature Tt in degrees Celsius, where Ta is the ambient
temperature (for Ta>1) in degrees Celsius, and P is a power
factor. In some embodiments, the power factor P equals 12.21.
Applying the power factor P to the above formula may allow the
temperature in the PCS 100 to rise to a safe equilibrium when
ambient temperatures are at average or below average levels, while
conserving (e.g., minimizing) consumption of power by the fans.
When ambient temperatures are at above average levels, temperature
control module 1302 may increase fan power until the fan(s) 1360
reach their maximum speed, and techniques described above may be
used to further reduce the temperature in PCS 100.
Techniques for Servicing a Display Subsystem of a PCS
[0154] Those skilled in the art can appreciate that it may be
beneficial for the PCS 100 (or portions thereof) to be field
serviceable. Field serviceability may decrease the time and expense
associated with repairing and maintaining the PCS, thereby
decreasing any inconvenience to users or passers-by and increasing
the PCS's profitability. Features that facilitate field servicing
of the PCS display module(s) 700 may be particularly beneficial.
The PCS display module(s) 700 may be heavy (e.g., 40-100 pounds or
more) and may be located relatively high above the PCS's base
(e.g., the top of a display module may be approximately 10 feet or
more above the PCS's base). Naive approaches to servicing the
display module(s) (e.g., using ladders or scaffolding) may pose
significant problems. For example, some PCSs may be located on busy
city streets where ladders are prohibited. The construction and use
of scaffolding may be time-consuming and costly, and may require
the presence of a police officer. Thus, there is a need for
techniques for quickly and efficiently servicing the display
subsystem of a PCS.
[0155] According to an aspect of the present disclosure, a system
for servicing a display subsystem 170 of a personal communication
structure (PCS) 100 is provided. Referring to FIG. 18, in some
embodiments a system 1800 for servicing a display subsystem
includes a mounting system 1810, stabilizing mechanism 1820,
quick-release mechanism 1830, locking mechanism 1840, and/or
counterbalance mechanism 1850. The system 1800 may facilitate
lowering of a display module 700 to street level, where the display
module can be quickly removed, carried away, and replaced. Mounting
system 1810 may include components for mounting one or more display
modules 700 to a PCS 100. Stabilizing mechanism 1820 may prevent
mounting system 1810 and display module 700 from moving when the
mounting system (or display module) is in a "servicing" position.
Quick-release mechanism 1830 may releasably connect mounting system
1810 to a display module 700 or to a frame 1000 of the PCS 100.
Locking mechanism 1840 may lock the display module 700 in a closed
position for normal PCS operation. Counterbalance mechanism 1850
may support a display module 700 relative to the frame 1000 of the
PCS 100, which may facilitate movement of the display module 700
between the closed and servicing positions. The components of
servicing system 1800 are described in further detail below.
[0156] Referring to FIGS. 19A and 19B, a mounting system 1810 may
include a plurality of four-bar linkages 1900 (e.g., two four-bar
linkages) coupling each display module 700 to the PCS's frame. In
the example of FIG. 19A, the mounting system 1810 includes a
four-bar linkage 1900a coupling one side of display module 700a to
the PCS's frame, and a second four-bar linkage (not visible in the
view of FIG. 19A) arranged in parallel to four-bar linkage 1900a
and coupling the opposite side of display module 700a to the PCS's
frame. In some embodiments, the rotation of these four-bar linkages
causes display module 700a to move along a generally arcuate path
1910a between a closed position and a servicing position (e.g., a
lowered servicing position), while keeping the display module 700a
in a substantially vertical orientation. The closed position may be
the position illustrated in FIG. 9A, in which display compartment
870 is closed (e.g., inaccessible from the exterior of the PCS). In
some embodiments, the servicing position includes any position in
which display compartment 870 is open (e.g., accessible from the
exterior of the PCS), including (but not limited to) the position
illustrated in FIG. 19A. In some embodiments, the servicing
position is a position in which display compartment 870 is open and
the mounting system 1850 is stabilized to prevent further movement
of the display module 700a toward the base of the PCS. This
stabilization may prevent the module 700a from being damaged when
it is lowered and keep it in the servicing position, so it can be
removed by service personnel.
[0157] In the example of FIG. 19B, mounting system 1810 further
includes a third four-bar linkage 1900b coupling one side of
display module 700b to the PCS's frame, and a fourth four-bar
linkage (not visible in the view of FIG. 19B) arranged in parallel
to the four-bar linkage 1900b and coupling the opposite side of
display module 700b to the PCS's frame. In some embodiments, the
rotation of these four-bar linkages causes display module 700b to
move along a generally arcuate path 1910b between a closed position
and a servicing position, while keeping the display module 700b in
a substantially vertical orientation.
[0158] In some embodiments, a four-bar linkage 1900 includes two
links (a lower link 1902a and an upper link 1902b), a portion 1904
of the PCS's frame 1000 coupled between the links, and a portion
1906 of the display module's housing frame 1602 coupled between the
links. Referring to FIG. 20A, a four-bar linkage 1900 may further
include two connectors 2020 coupled to the display module's housing
frame 1602 and coupled to respective links 1902 by respective pin
joints 2010. Referring to FIG. 20B, a four-bar linkage 1900 may
further include two connectors 2040 coupled to the PCS's frame 1000
and coupled to respective links 1902 by respective pin joints
2030.
[0159] In some embodiments, each of the mounting system's four-bar
linkages is a substantially planar four-bar linkage. In some
embodiments, each of the substantially planar four-bar linkages
forms a parallelogram linkage system.
[0160] In some embodiments, when a display module is in the
servicing position, the height 1920 (e.g., height above the base of
the PCS) of the pin joint 2010 coupling the upper link 1902 of a
four-bar linkage 1900 to the display module 700 may be between
approximately four feet and approximately eight feet, between
approximately five feet and approximately seven feet, between five
feet and approximately six feet, or equal to approximately 70
inches. Lowering this pin joint to such a height may facilitate
disconnection of the display module 700 from the upper link 1902 by
a person of average height without the aid of a ladder. One or more
of the pin joints may include a suitable quick-release mechanism,
to facilitate pin removal without the use of any tools, as
discussed below.
[0161] Referring to FIGS. 21A and 21B, a servicing system 1800 may
include one or more stabilizing mechanisms 1820. The stabilizing
mechanism(s) may be engaged to prevent the mounting system 1810
from moving when it is in the servicing position, and may be
disengaged to permit the mounting system 1810 to move between the
servicing position and the closed position. In some embodiments,
the stabilizing mechanism(s) 1820 prevent the mounting system 1810
from moving by preventing one or more four-bar linkages 1900 of
mounting system 1810 from rotating. In some embodiments, engaging
the stabilizing mechanism(s) 1820 may oppose or prevent twisting of
the four-bar linkages 1900 (e.g., out-of-plane twisting of planar
four-bar linkages).
[0162] In some embodiments, a stabilizing mechanism 1820 includes a
pin 2110 movably coupled to a link 1902, and an aperture 2120
formed in a connector 2040 coupling the link 1902 to the PCS's
frame 1000. Inserting at least a portion of the movable pin 2110
into the aperture 2120 may prevent the link 1902 from rotating
about pin joint 2030 relative to PCS frame 1000, and/or may oppose
twisting of the four-bar linkages 1900. Retracting the movable pin
2110 from the aperture 2120 may permit the link 1902 to rotate
about pin joint 2030.
[0163] In some embodiments, movable pin 2110 is movably attached to
link 1902 by a retaining member 2130. The retaining member may
include, without limitation, a groove in mechanical communication
with a ridge on the movable pin 2110, a sleeve partially enclosing
the movable pin 2110, or any other suitable mechanism that permits
pin 2110 to move but constrains the pin's movement and maintains a
coupling between the pin and the link 1902.
[0164] In some embodiments, movable pin 2110 is biased toward
aperture 2120. In such embodiments, an end portion of movable pin
2110 may automatically slide into aperture 2120 when movable pin
2110 is aligned with aperture 2120 (e.g., when link 1902 is in the
servicing position). Movable pin 2110 may be biased toward the
aperture 2120 by a spring, a pair of magnets, and/or any other
suitable bias mechanism.
[0165] As described above, a mounting system 1810 for a display
module 700 may include two four-bar linkages, which may include two
upper links 1902b coupled to PCS frame 1000 at respective
connectors 2040, and two lower links 1902a coupled to PCS frame
1000 at respective connectors 2040. There may be stabilizing
mechanisms disposed at each of the four joints coupling a link 1902
to a connector 2040, at each of the two joints coupling a lower
link 1902a to a connector 2040, at either of the joints coupling a
lower link 1902a to a connector 2040, or at any other suitable
single or combination of the joints coupling links 1902 to
respective connectors 2040. Arranging the stabilizing mechanisms
1820 only at one or both of the joints coupling a lower link 1902a
to a connector 2040 may facilitate manual disengagement of the
stabilizing mechanism(s) by one or two service workers without the
aid of a ladder.
[0166] In some embodiments, the stabilizing mechanism 1820 includes
a latch 2190. FIG. 21C shows two lower links 1902, each of which is
coupled to a corresponding latch 2190. In FIG. 21C, the latch 2190x
is shown in an unlatched position, and the latch 2190y is shown in
a latched position. In some embodiments, when the latch 2190 is in
the latched position, the latch releasably fastens the link 1902 to
the PCS 100 (e.g., to the cross-frame member 1001c of the PCS frame
1001, to the air intake assembly 967, to the air intake compartment
865, or to any other suitable portion of the PCS). In some
embodiments, engaging the latch 2190 may prevent the link 1902 (and
the linkage 1900 and the mounting system 1810) from moving out of
the servicing position. In some embodiments, the latch 2190 may be
disengaged to permit the link 1902, linkage 1900, and mounting
system 1810 to move between the servicing position and the closed
position.
[0167] In some embodiments, the latch 2190x is held in the
unlatched position by inserting a spring-loaded plunger 2191x into
an aperture 2192x (not visible in FIG. 21C), and the latch 2190y is
held in the latched position by inserting a spring-loaded plunger
2191y into an aperture 2193y (not visible in FIG. 21C). Now
referring to FIG. 21D, when the pin 2194 of the spring loaded
plunger 2191 is retracted (e.g., by pulling the spring-loaded
plunger's ring 2195), the plunger 2191 may be permitted to move
between the latched and unlatched positions. Other mechanisms for
holding a latch 2190 in latched and unlatched positions, and for
releasing a latch, are possible.
[0168] Returning to FIG. 21C, in some embodiments a link 1902 may
have a protrusion 2196, which may contact the PCS 100 when the
mounting system 1810 is in the servicing position. For example, the
protrusion 2196 may contact the cross-frame member 1001c of the PCS
frame 1001, the air intake assembly 967, the air intake compartment
865, or any other suitable portion of the PCS 100. In some
embodiments, the portion of the PCS 100 contacted by the protrusion
2196 may provide load-bearing support to the mounting system 1810
when the mounting system is in the servicing position. In some
embodiments, the protrusion 2196 may protect the link 1902 and the
contacted portion of the PCS 100 from each other, so that the link
1902 does not wear down an edge of the PCS 100, and the PCS does
not wear down an edge of the link. Thus, the protrusion 2196 may
enhance the durability of the PCS 100 and the mounting system
1810.
[0169] In some embodiments, the length 2140 of the links 1902 may
be between approximately 8 inches and approximately 16 inches,
between approximately 10 inches and approximately 14 inches, or
equal to approximately 12 inches.
[0170] Returning to FIG. 18, in some embodiments servicing system
1800 includes one or more quick-release mechanisms 1830 coupling
the display module(s) 700 to the PCS 100. The use of quick-release
mechanisms may facilitate coupling of the display module 700 to the
PCS 100 during installation of the display module, and de-coupling
of the display module 700 from the PCS 100 during servicing or
replacement of the display module.
[0171] Referring to FIG. 20A, in some embodiments the pin joints
2010 coupling the links 1902 to the display module 700 at the
connectors 2020 are secured by quick-release mechanisms 1830.
Referring to FIG. 20B, in some embodiments the pin joints 2030
coupling the links 1902 to the PCS frame 1000 at the connectors
2040 are secured by quick-release mechanisms 1830.
[0172] In some embodiments, quick-release mechanism 1830 includes a
pin (e.g., the pin that forms pin joint 2010 or 2030) with threads
at one end and a lever-operated cam assembly at the other end. The
level-operated cam assembly may be used to tighten or loosen a nut
on the threaded end of the pin. In some embodiments, quick-release
mechanism 1830 includes a push-pull pin, a positive-locking pin
(e.g., a cotter pin), or any other suitable mechanism that
releasably secures a display module 700 to PCS 100. In some
embodiments, the quick-release mechanism 1830 includes a detent pin
(e.g., the pin that forms pin joint 2010 or 2030) that attaches the
link 1902 to the display module 700 or to the connector 2040. FIG.
21D illustrates a detent pin 2125 that forms the pin joint 2010
that attaches the link 1902 to the display module 700, according to
some embodiments.
[0173] Returning to FIG. 18, in some embodiments servicing system
1800 includes one or more locking mechanisms 1840. FIG. 22 shows a
cut-away perspective view of a locking mechanism 1840 of display
compartment 870, according to some embodiments. In some
embodiments, locking mechanism 1840 includes a lock 2210 and an
actuator 2206. The lock 2210 may include a connector 2212 (e.g., a
pin) coupled to the housing of display module 700, and a mating
interlocking connector 2214 (e.g., an L-shaped receptacle) formed
in a retention member 2218 of PCS 100. The actuator 2206 may be
operable to disengage lock 2210 by moving retention member 2218
such that connector 2212 is released from mating interlocking
connector 2214 (e.g., by moving retention member 2218 toward the
PCS's base). The operation of lock 2210 and actuator 2206 are
described in more detail below, with reference to FIGS. 23A and
23B.
[0174] FIG. 23A shows a cross-sectional view of locking mechanism
1840 of display compartment 870 with the lock 2210 engaged and the
mounting system in the closed position, according to some
embodiments. In some embodiments, lock 2210 is engaged by
positioning connector 2212 within mating interlocking connector
2214, such that mating interlocking connector 2214 prevents
connector 2212 from moving laterally. As can be seen, when lock
2210 is engaged, the mounting system holds display module 700 in
the closed position. In some embodiments, actuator 2206 is operable
to disengage lock 2210 by retracting a pin 2302 into an aperture of
a spool 2306, thereby moving mating interlocking connector 2214
downward such that connector 2212 can move laterally toward the
exterior of the PCS 100. In some embodiments, actuator 2206
includes a bias member 2304 (e.g., a spring) that biases lock 2210
toward the engaged position.
[0175] Actuator 2206 may be controlled by an access control device,
which may control actuator 2206 to disengage lock 2210 when valid
authentication information is provided by a user. The control
mechanism by which the access control device controls actuator 2206
to disengage (or "release") lock 2210 may be a lever, a cam, a
solenoid, a motor with drive gear, any suitable combination
thereof, or any other suitable control mechanism.
[0176] FIG. 23B shows a cross-sectional view of locking mechanism
1840 of display compartment 870 with the lock 2210 disengaged and
the mounting system in the open position, according to some
embodiments. In the example of FIG. 23B, pin 2302 has been
retracted, thereby causing retention member 2218 and mating
interlocking connector 2214 to move downward, thereby releasing
connector 2212 to move laterally toward the exterior of PCS 100. An
embodiment has been described in which locking mechanism 1840
includes a connector 2212 and a mating interlocking connector 2214.
In some embodiments, locking mechanism 1840 includes multiple pairs
of connectors and mating interlocking connectors. The connectors
may be arranged around a periphery of display module 700, and the
mating interlocking connectors may be arranged around a periphery
of display compartment 870. For example, retention member 2218 may
include one or more mating interlocking connectors, and a second
retention member disposed on the opposite side of display module
700 may also include one or more mating interlocking connectors. In
some embodiments, one or more of the connectors 2212 may include
respective pin joints 2030 of the mounting system 1810. In some
embodiments, the connectors 2212 may be disposed on the retention
members 2218, and the mating interlocking connectors 2214 may be
disposed on the display module 700.
[0177] As can be seen in FIG. 24, PCS 100 may include two display
modules 700 facing in opposite directions. In such embodiments,
either or both display modules may be equipped with locking
mechanisms 1840 that operate in conjunction or independently.
[0178] Returning to FIG. 18, in some embodiments servicing system
1800 includes one or more counter-balance mechanisms 1850, which
may support the display module(s) 700 relative to the PCS frame
1000, thereby facilitating movement of the display module(s) 700
between the closed and servicing positions. It can be appreciated
that the display module in some embodiments weighs more than 100
pounds (e.g., approximately 130 pounds). The counter-balance
mechanism 1850 may prevent the display module from becoming a
safety hazard when being serviced.
[0179] Referring to FIGS. 25A and 25B, in some embodiments, a
counterbalance mechanism 1850 includes a counterbalance member
2510, a pulley 2520, and a cable 2530. One end of cable 2530 may be
coupled to the counterbalance member 2510, and the other end of
cable 2530 may be coupled to the mounting system 1810, with an
intermediate portion of cable 2530 supported by pulley 2520. The
counterbalance member 2510 may exert a force on cable 2530 that
opposes a force exerted on cable 2530 by the mounting system 1810
due to the weight of the display module. Thus, counterbalance
member 2510 may permit a service worker to move a display module
700 coupled to mounting system 1810 between the open and servicing
positions by exerting relatively small forces on the display
module.
[0180] In some embodiments, counterbalance member 2510 includes a
spring and/or a counterweight. In embodiments in which
counterbalance member 2510 includes a spring, one end of the spring
may be coupled to the PCS frame 1000 via a connector 2540. The
other end of the spring may be coupled to one end of cable 2530.
The connector 2540 may be disposed at any suitable location within
the PCS, including, without limitation, a location between
connectors 2030a and 2030b of mounting system 1810. The spring may
be any suitable type of spring, including, without limitation, a
coil extension spring, a torsion spring, etc. As can be seen by
comparing FIGS. 25A and 25B, the extension of the spring may
increase as the links 1902 of mounting system 1810 move toward the
servicing position. In other embodiments, the counterbalance member
2510 may be a gas-charged cylinder, to provide both biasing and
damping.
[0181] In the example of FIGS. 25A-B, the cable 2530 is coupled to
lower link 1902a of the mounting system 1810. In some embodiments,
the cable 2530 is coupled to upper link 1902b. In either case, the
cable may be coupled to a link 1902 at any suitable location on the
link 1902, including, without limitation, a location approximately
midway between the link's pin joints 2010 and 2030.
[0182] In some embodiments, servicing system 1800 may include
multiple counterbalance mechanisms. For example, one counterbalance
mechanism 1850 may be coupled to a four-bar linkage 1900 on one
side of a display module 700, and another counterbalance mechanism
1850 may be coupled to another four-bar linkage 1900 on the other
side of the display module 700. As another example, one
counterbalance mechanism 1850 may be coupled to an upper link 1902b
of a four-bar linkage 1900, and another counterbalance mechanism
1850 may be coupled to a lower link 1902a of the same four-bar
linkage. As yet another example, one or more first counterbalance
mechanisms 1850 may be coupled to one or more first four-bar
linkages 1900 coupled to a first display module 700, and one or
more second counterbalance mechanisms 1850 may be coupled to one or
more second four-bar linkages 1900 coupled to a second display
module 700.
[0183] FIGS. 25C, 26A, and 26B show how components of servicing
system 1800 may be arranged in compact relation to the frame 1000
of PCS 100, in accordance with some embodiments.
Further Description of Some Embodiments
[0184] Embodiments have been described in which a temperature
control subsystem 160 performs temperature control processes for a
PCS 100. The various temperature control processes described herein
can be performed using software that is executable on one or more
processors (e.g., processor(s) 400, 600, and/or 710) that employ
one of a variety of operating systems or platforms. Additionally,
such software can be written using any of a number of suitable
programming languages and/or programming or scripting tools, and
also can be compiled as executable machine language code or
intermediate code that is executed on a framework or virtual
machine. Also, the acts performed as part of the techniques
described herein can be performed in any suitable order.
[0185] In this respect, the temperature control techniques can be
embodied as a computer readable medium (or multiple computer
readable media) (e.g., a computer memory, one or more floppy discs,
compact discs, optical discs, magnetic tapes, flash memories,
circuit configurations in Field Programmable Gate Arrays or other
semiconductor devices, or other tangible computer storage medium)
encoded with one or more programs that, when executed on one or
more computers or other processors, perform methods that implement
the various techniques discussed above. The computer readable
medium or media can be non-transitory. The computer readable medium
or media can be transportable, such that the program or programs
stored thereon can be loaded onto one or more different computers
or other processors to implement various aspects of the present
invention as discussed above. The terms "program" or "software" are
used herein in a generic sense to refer to computer code or set of
computer-executable instructions that can be employed to program a
computer or other processor to implement various aspects described
in the present disclosure. Additionally, it should be appreciated
that according to one aspect of this disclosure, one or more
computer programs that when executed perform techniques described
herein need not reside on a single computer or processor, but can
be distributed in a modular fashion amongst a number of different
computers or processors to implement various aspects of the present
invention.
[0186] Computer-executable instructions can be in many forms, such
as program modules, executed by one or more computers or other
devices. Generally, program modules include routines, programs,
objects, components, data structures, etc. that perform particular
tasks or implement particular abstract data types. Typically the
functionality of the program modules can be combined or distributed
as desired in various embodiments.
[0187] Also, data structures can be stored in computer-readable
media in any suitable form. For simplicity of illustration, data
structures can be shown to have fields that are related through
location in the data structure. Such relationships can likewise be
achieved by assigning storage for the fields with locations in a
computer-readable medium that conveys relationship between the
fields. However, any suitable mechanism can be used to establish a
relationship between information in fields of a data structure,
including through the use of pointers, tags or other mechanisms
that establish a relationship between data elements.
[0188] In some embodiments the technique(s) can be implemented as
computer instructions stored in portions of a computer's random
access memory to provide control logic that affects the processes
described above. In such an embodiment, the program can be written
in any one of a number of high-level languages, such as FORTRAN,
PASCAL, C, C++, C#, Java, JavaScript, Tcl, or BASIC. Further, the
program can be written in a script, macro, or functionality
embedded in commercially available software, such as EXCEL or
VISUAL BASIC. Additionally, the software can be implemented in an
assembly language directed to a microprocessor resident on a
computer. For example, the software can be implemented in Intel
80x86 assembly language if it is configured to run on an IBM PC or
PC clone. The software can be embedded on an article of manufacture
including, but not limited to, "computer-readable program means"
such as a floppy disk, a hard disk, an optical disk, a magnetic
tape, a PROM, an EPROM, or CD-ROM.
[0189] Embodiments have been described in which various aspects of
the techniques described herein are applied to a personal
communication structure (PCS). In some embodiments, aspects of the
techniques described herein may be applied to any suitable
structure including, without limitation, a kiosk (e.g., an
interactive kiosk), pay station (e.g., parking pay station),
automated teller machine (ATM), article of street furniture (e.g.,
mailbox, bench, traffic barrier, bollard, telephone booth,
streetlamp, traffic signal, traffic sign, public transit sign,
public transit shelter, taxi stand, public lavatory, fountain,
watering trough, memorial, sculpture, waste receptacle, fire
hydrant, vending machine, utility pole, etc.), etc.
[0190] Various aspects of the present disclosure can be used alone,
in combination, or in a variety of arrangements not specifically
described in the foregoing, and the invention is therefore not
limited in its application to the details and arrangement of
components set forth in the foregoing description or illustrated in
the drawings. For example, aspects described in one embodiment can
be combined in a suitable manner with aspects described in other
embodiments.
TERMINOLOGY
[0191] The phraseology and terminology used herein is for the
purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting.
[0192] The term "approximately", the phrase "approximately equal
to", and other similar phrases, as used in the specification and
the claims (e.g., "X has a value of approximately Y" or "X is
approximately equal to Y"), should be understood to mean that one
value (X) is within a predetermined range of another value (Y). The
predetermined range may be plus or minus 20%, 10%, 5%, 3%, 1%,
0.1%, or less than 0.1%, unless otherwise indicated.
[0193] The indefinite articles "a" and "an," as used in the
specification and in the claims, unless clearly indicated to the
contrary, should be understood to mean "at least one." The phrase
"and/or," as used in the specification and in the claims, should be
understood to mean "either or both" of the elements so conjoined,
i.e., elements that are conjunctively present in some cases and
disjunctively present in other cases. Multiple elements listed with
"and/or" should be construed in the same fashion, i.e., "one or
more" of the elements so conjoined. Other elements may optionally
be present other than the elements specifically identified by the
"and/or" clause, whether related or unrelated to those elements
specifically identified. Thus, as a non-limiting example, a
reference to "A and/or B", when used in conjunction with open-ended
language such as "comprising" can refer, in one embodiment, to A
only (optionally including elements other than B); in another
embodiment, to B only (optionally including elements other than A);
in yet another embodiment, to both A and B (optionally including
other elements); etc.
[0194] As used in the specification and in the claims, "or" should
be understood to have the same meaning as "and/or" as defined
above. For example, when separating items in a list, "or" or
"and/or" shall be interpreted as being inclusive, i.e., the
inclusion of at least one, but also including more than one, of a
number or list of elements, and, optionally, additional unlisted
items. Only terms clearly indicated to the contrary, such as "only
one of" or "exactly one of," or, when used in the claims,
"consisting of," will refer to the inclusion of exactly one element
of a number or list of elements. In general, the term "or" as used
shall only be interpreted as indicating exclusive alternatives
(i.e. "one or the other but not both") when preceded by terms of
exclusivity, such as "either," "one of," "only one of," or "exactly
one of." "Consisting essentially of," when used in the claims,
shall have its ordinary meaning as used in the field of patent
law.
[0195] As used in the specification and in the claims, the phrase
"at least one," in reference to a list of one or more elements,
should be understood to mean at least one element selected from any
one or more of the elements in the list of elements, but not
necessarily including at least one of each and every element
specifically listed within the list of elements and not excluding
any combinations of elements in the list of elements. This
definition also allows that elements may optionally be present
other than the elements specifically identified within the list of
elements to which the phrase "at least one" refers, whether related
or unrelated to those elements specifically identified. Thus, as a
non-limiting example, "at least one of A and B" (or, equivalently,
"at least one of A or B," or, equivalently "at least one of A
and/or B") can refer, in one embodiment, to at least one,
optionally including more than one, A, with no B present (and
optionally including elements other than B); in another embodiment,
to at least one, optionally including more than one, B, with no A
present (and optionally including elements other than A); in yet
another embodiment, to at least one, optionally including more than
one, A, and at least one, optionally including more than one, B
(and optionally including other elements); etc.
[0196] The use of "including," "comprising," "having,"
"containing," "involving," and variations thereof, is meant to
encompass the items listed thereafter and additional items.
[0197] Use of ordinal terms such as "first," "second," "third,"
etc., in the claims to modify a claim element does not by itself
connote any priority, precedence, or order of one claim element
over another or the temporal order in which acts of a method are
performed. Ordinal terms are used merely as labels to distinguish
one claim element having a certain name from another element having
a same name (but for use of the ordinal term), to distinguish the
claim elements.
EQUIVALENTS
[0198] Having thus described several aspects of at least one
embodiment of this invention, it is to be appreciated that various
alterations, modifications, and improvements will readily occur to
those skilled in the art. Such alterations, modifications, and
improvements are intended to be part of this disclosure, and are
intended to be within the spirit and scope of the invention.
Accordingly, the foregoing description and drawings are by way of
example only.
* * * * *