U.S. patent application number 16/801744 was filed with the patent office on 2021-08-26 for cellular base station keyed cable connectors.
The applicant listed for this patent is DISH Wireless L.L.C.. Invention is credited to Greg Ivey, Jeffrey McSchooler, Anand Menon, Richard Ripp, JR..
Application Number | 20210265721 16/801744 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 1000005764833 |
Filed Date | 2021-08-26 |
United States Patent
Application |
20210265721 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
McSchooler; Jeffrey ; et
al. |
August 26, 2021 |
CELLULAR BASE STATION KEYED CABLE CONNECTORS
Abstract
Various arrangements of a connection system are presented. The
system can include radio cable ports. Each radio cable port may be
communicatively connected with a different antenna of an antenna
system. Each radio cable port may be keyed different such that only
a particular keyed cable assembly can be mated with the radio cable
port. The system can also include antenna cable ports. Each antenna
cable port can be configured to be communicatively connected with a
different radio of a radio system. Each antenna cable port may be
keyed different such that only a particular keyed cable assembly
can be mated with the antenna cable port. Each radio cable port is
keyed in a same pattern as an antenna cable port with which the
radio cable port is intended to be communicatively connected.
Inventors: |
McSchooler; Jeffrey;
(Parker, CO) ; Ivey; Greg; (Denver, CO) ;
Ripp, JR.; Richard; (Castle Rock, CO) ; Menon;
Anand; (Lone Tree, CO) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
DISH Wireless L.L.C. |
Englewood |
CO |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
1000005764833 |
Appl. No.: |
16/801744 |
Filed: |
February 26, 2020 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
H04W 88/085 20130101;
H01Q 1/1242 20130101; H01R 25/003 20130101; H01R 13/64 20130101;
H01Q 1/246 20130101 |
International
Class: |
H01Q 1/24 20060101
H01Q001/24; H01Q 1/12 20060101 H01Q001/12; H04W 88/08 20060101
H04W088/08; H01R 25/00 20060101 H01R025/00; H01R 13/64 20060101
H01R013/64 |
Claims
1. A cellular radio to cellular antenna connection system,
comprising: a plurality of radio cable ports, wherein: each radio
cable port is configured to be communicatively connected with a
different antenna of an antenna system; and each radio cable port
is keyed different such that only a particular keyed cable assembly
of a plurality of keyed cable assemblies can be mated with the
radio cable port; a plurality of antenna cable ports, wherein: each
antenna cable port of the plurality of antenna cable ports is
configured to be communicatively connected with a different radio
of a radio system; and each antenna cable port is keyed different
such that only a particular keyed cable assembly of the plurality
of keyed cable assemblies can be mated with the antenna cable port;
and each radio cable port of the plurality of radio cable ports is
keyed in a same pattern as an antenna cable port of the plurality
of antenna cable ports with which the radio cable port is intended
to be communicatively connected.
2. The cellular radio to cellular antenna connection system of
claim 1, further comprises the plurality of keyed cable
assemblies.
3. The cellular radio to cellular antenna connection system of
claim 2, wherein each keyed cable assembly of the plurality of
keyed cable assemblies comprises a keyed radio connector and a
keyed antenna connector.
4. The cellular radio to cellular antenna connection system of
claim 3, wherein the keyed radio connector and the keyed antenna
connector of each keyed cable assembly of the plurality of keyed
cable assemblies are keyed the same.
5. The cellular radio to cellular antenna connection system of
claim 4, wherein: each radio cable port comprises one or more keyed
protrusions located within an outer housing; and each antenna cable
port comprises one or more keyed elements located within an outer
housing.
6. The cellular radio to cellular antenna connection system of
claim 5, wherein the one or more keyed protrusions of each radio
cable port are arranged in a different pattern than each other
radio cable port of the plurality of radio cable ports.
7. The cellular radio to cellular antenna connection system of
claim 1, further comprising a radio plate assembly, wherein the
radio plate assembly comprises: a radio plate; a plurality of radio
port connectors attached to a first side of the radio plate; the
plurality of radio cable ports attached to a second side of the
radio plate opposite the first side of the radio plate; and an
attachment mechanism that secures the plurality of radio port
connectors to a matching plurality of radio ports of the radio
system.
8. The cellular radio to cellular antenna connection system of
claim 7, wherein the plurality of radio port connectors are
arranged on the first side of the radio plate such that plurality
of radio port connectors mate with a plurality of radio ports of
the radio system in a single orientation.
9. The cellular radio to cellular antenna connection system of
claim 1, further comprising an antenna plate assembly, wherein the
antenna plate assembly comprises: an antenna plate; a plurality of
antenna port connectors attached to a first side of the antenna
plate; the plurality of antenna cable ports attached to a second
side of the antenna plate opposite the first side of the antenna
plate; and an attachment mechanism that secures the plurality of
antenna port connectors to a matching plurality of antenna ports of
the antenna system.
10. The cellular radio to cellular antenna connection system of
claim 9, wherein the plurality of antenna port connectors are
arranged on the first side of the antenna plate such that plurality
of antenna port connectors mate with the plurality of antenna ports
of the antenna system in a single orientation.
11. The cellular radio to cellular antenna connection system of
claim 1, further comprising: the antenna system comprising a
plurality of antennas; and the radio system comprising a plurality
of cellular radios.
12. The cellular radio to cellular antenna connection system of
claim 9, wherein the plurality of radio cable ports are mounted on
the radio system.
13. The cellular radio to cellular antenna connection system of
claim 12, wherein the plurality of antenna cable ports are mounted
on the antenna system.
14. A cellular tower plate connection system, comprising: an
antenna plate assembly comprising: an antenna plate; a plurality of
antenna port connectors attached to a first side of the antenna
plate; a plurality of antenna cable ports, wherein: each antenna
cable port of the plurality of antenna cable ports is configured to
be communicatively connected with a different radio of a radio
system; each antenna cable port is keyed different such that only a
particular keyed cable assembly of a plurality of keyed cable
assemblies can be mated with the antenna cable port; and the
plurality of antenna cable ports are attached to a second side of
the antenna plate opposite the first side of the antenna plate; and
a radio plate assembly comprising: a radio plate; a plurality of
radio port connectors attached to a first side of the radio plate;
a plurality of radio cable ports, wherein: each radio cable port is
configured to be communicatively connected with a different antenna
of an antenna system; and each radio cable port is keyed different
such that only a particular keyed cable assembly of the plurality
of keyed cable assemblies can be mated with the radio cable port;
and the plurality of radio cable ports are attached to a second
side of the radio plate opposite the first side of the radio
plate.
15. The cellular tower plate connection system of claim 14, wherein
each radio cable port of the plurality of radio cable ports is
keyed in a same pattern as an antenna cable port of the plurality
of antenna cable ports with which the radio cable port is intended
to be communicatively connected.
16. The cellular tower plate connection system of claim 15, further
comprises the plurality of keyed cable assemblies.
17. The cellular tower plate connection system of claim 16,
wherein: each radio cable port comprises one or more keyed
protrusions located within an outer housing; and each antenna cable
port comprises one or more keyed elements located within an outer
housing.
18. The cellular tower plate connection system of claim 17, wherein
the one or more keyed protrusions of each radio cable port are
arranged in a different pattern than each other radio cable port of
the plurality of radio cable ports.
19. The cellular tower plate connection system of claim 14, the
antenna plate assembly further comprising: a first attachment
mechanism that secures the plurality of antenna port connectors to
a matching plurality of antenna ports of the antenna system,
wherein: the plurality of antenna port connectors are arranged on
the first side of the antenna plate such that the plurality of
antenna port connectors mate with the plurality of antenna ports of
the antenna system in a single possible orientation.
20. The cellular tower plate connection system of claim 14, the
radio plate assembly further comprising: a second attachment
mechanism that secures the plurality of radio port connectors to a
matching plurality of radio ports of the radio system, wherein: the
plurality of radio port connectors are arranged on the first side
of the radio plate such that plurality of radio port connectors
mate with the matching plurality of radio ports of the radio system
in a single orientation.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is related to U.S. patent application Ser.
No. ______, filed on the same day as this patent application,
entitled "Cellular Base Station Radio to Antenna Connection
System," attorney docket number P2019-10-08 (1163945), the entire
disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference for all
purposes.
BACKGROUND
[0002] When installing a new cellular tower or modifying a cellular
tower of a base station, connections need to be made between the
base station's antennas and radios, baseband unit (BBU, also
referred to as a centralized unit, CU), distributed unit (DU),
and/or cellular site router. The radios are typically located some
distance from the antennas, such as in one or more housings located
on the ground. The antennas tend to be located in an elevated
position, such as atop a cellular tower. If the radios are not
connected to the antennas correctly, the base station may not
function properly or at all. Similarly correct connections may need
to be established between other components, such as connections
involving a BBU, DU, and/or cellular site router. Typically, this
scenario requires a technician to return to the base station,
diagnose, and correct the installation. In addition to the downtime
of the cellular tower not functioning properly or at all, requiring
a technician to diagnose and correct the installation can be
time-consuming, especially if a significant amount of weather
protective material needs to be removed and reinstalled or
replaced.
SUMMARY
[0003] Various embodiments are described related to a cellular
radio to cellular antenna connection system. In some embodiments, a
cellular radio to cellular antenna connection is described. The
system may include a plurality of radio cable ports. Each radio
cable port may be configured to be communicatively connected with a
different antenna of an antenna system. Each radio cable port may
be keyed different such that only a particular keyed cable assembly
of a plurality of keyed cable assemblies can be mated with the
radio cable port. The system may include a plurality of antenna
cable ports. Each antenna cable port of the plurality of antenna
cable ports may be configured to be communicatively connected with
a different radio of a radio system. Each antenna cable port may be
keyed different such that only a particular keyed cable assembly of
the plurality of keyed cable assemblies can be mated with the
antenna cable port. Each radio cable port of the plurality of radio
cable ports may be keyed in a same pattern as an antenna cable port
of the plurality of antenna cable ports with which the radio cable
port may be intended to be communicatively connected.
[0004] Embodiments of such a system may include one or more of the
following features: the cellular radio to cellular antenna
connection system may comprise the plurality of keyed cable
assemblies. Each keyed cable assembly of the plurality of keyed
cable assemblies may comprise a keyed radio connector and a keyed
antenna connector. The keyed radio connector and the keyed antenna
connector of each keyed cable assembly of the plurality of keyed
cable assemblies may be keyed the same. Each radio cable port may
comprise one or more keyed protrusions located within an outer
housing. Each antenna cable port may comprise one or more keyed
elements located within an outer housing. The one or more keyed
protrusions of each radio cable port may be arranged in a different
pattern than each other radio cable port of the plurality of radio
cable ports. The radio plate assembly may comprise a radio plate.
The radio plate assembly may comprise a plurality of radio port
connectors attached to a first side of the radio plate. The radio
plate assembly may comprise the plurality of radio cable ports
attached to a second side of the radio plate opposite the first
side of the radio plate. The radio plate assembly may comprise an
attachment mechanism that secures the plurality of radio port
connectors to a matching plurality of radio ports of the radio
system. The plurality of radio port connectors may be arranged on
the first side of the radio plate such that plurality of radio port
connectors may mate with a plurality of radio ports of the radio
system in a single orientation. The antenna plate assembly may
comprise an antenna plate. The antenna plate assembly may comprise
a plurality of antenna port connectors attached to a first side of
the antenna plate. The antenna plate assembly may comprise the
plurality of antenna cable ports attached to a second side of the
antenna plate opposite the first side of the antenna plate. The
antenna plate assembly may comprise an attachment mechanism that
secures the plurality of antenna port connectors to a matching
plurality of antenna ports of the antenna system. The plurality of
antenna port connectors may be arranged on the first side of the
antenna plate such that plurality of antenna port connectors may
mate with the plurality of antenna ports of the antenna system in a
single orientation. The system may further comprise the antenna
system comprising a plurality of antennas. The system may further
comprise the radio system comprising a plurality of cellular
radios. The plurality of radio cable ports may be mounted on the
radio system. The plurality of antenna cable ports may be mounted
on the antenna system.
[0005] In some embodiments, a cellular tower plate connection
system is described. The system may comprise an antenna plate
assembly. The antenna plate assembly may comprise an antenna plate.
The antenna plate assembly may comprise a plurality of antenna port
connectors attached to a first side of the antenna plate. The
system may comprise a plurality of antenna cable ports. Each
antenna cable port of the plurality of antenna cable ports may be
configured to be communicatively connected with a different radio
of a radio system. Each antenna cable port may be keyed different
such that only a particular keyed cable assembly of a first
plurality of keyed cable assemblies can be mated with the antenna
cable port. The plurality of antenna cable ports may be attached to
a second side of the antenna plate opposite the first side of the
antenna plate. A radio plate assembly may comprise a radio plate.
The radio plate assembly may comprise a plurality of radio port
connectors attached to a first side of the radio plate. The radio
plate assembly may comprise a plurality of radio cable ports. Each
radio cable port may be configured to be communicatively connected
with a different antenna of an antenna system. Each radio cable
port may be keyed different such that only a particular keyed cable
assembly of a second plurality of keyed cable assemblies can be
mated with the radio cable port. The plurality of radio cable ports
may be attached to a second side of the radio plate opposite the
first side of the radio plate.
[0006] Embodiments of such a system may include one or more of the
following features: each radio cable port of the plurality of radio
cable ports may be keyed in a same pattern as an antenna cable port
of the plurality of antenna cable ports with which the radio cable
port may be intended to be communicatively connected. The system
may further comprise the plurality of keyed cable assemblies. Each
radio cable port may comprise one or more keyed protrusions located
within an outer housing. Each antenna cable port may comprise one
or more keyed elements located within an outer housing. The one or
more keyed protrusions of each radio cable port may be arranged in
a different pattern than each other radio cable port of the
plurality of radio cable ports. The antenna plate assembly may
further comprise a first attachment mechanism that may secure the
plurality of antenna port connectors to a matching plurality of
antenna ports of the antenna system. The plurality of antenna port
connectors may be arranged on the first side of the antenna plate
such that the plurality of antenna port connectors may mate with
the plurality of antenna ports of the antenna system in a single
possible orientation. The radio plate assembly may further comprise
a second attachment mechanism that secures the plurality of radio
port connectors to a matching plurality of radio ports of the radio
system. The plurality of radio port connectors may be arranged on
the first side of the radio plate such that plurality of radio port
connectors may mate with the matching plurality of radio ports of
the radio system in a single orientation.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0007] A further understanding of the nature and advantages of
various embodiments may be realized by reference to the following
figures. In the appended figures, similar components or features
may have the same reference label. Further, various components of
the same type may be distinguished by following the reference label
by a dash and a second label that distinguishes among the similar
components. If only the first reference label is used in the
specification, the description is applicable to any one of the
similar components having the same first reference label
irrespective of the second reference label.
[0008] FIGS. 1A and 1B illustrate an embodiment of a cellular tower
plate connection system.
[0009] FIG. 1C illustrates an embodiment of the cellular tower
plate connection system with connections made between the plate
assemblies, the cable assemblies, the radio system, and the antenna
system.
[0010] FIG. 2A illustrates an embodiment of a front of a connection
plate.
[0011] FIG. 2B illustrates an embodiment of a back of a connection
plate.
[0012] FIG. 3 illustrates an embodiment of a connection being made
between a cable connector of a cable assembly and a cable port of a
plate assembly.
[0013] FIG. 4 illustrates an embodiment of a method for using a
cellular tower plate connection system.
[0014] FIG. 5 illustrates an embodiment of a keyed cable port.
[0015] FIG. 6 illustrates an embodiment of a keyed cable
connector.
[0016] FIG. 7 illustrates an embodiment of a keyed cable port.
[0017] FIG. 8 illustrates an embodiment of a keyed cable
connector.
[0018] FIG. 9 illustrates an embodiment of a keyed cable port.
[0019] FIG. 10 illustrates an embodiment of a keyed cable
connector.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0020] Embodiments detailed herein are focused on cellular tower
plate connection systems and methods for using such cellular tower
plate connection systems. When a technician connects a radio system
of a base station to the antennas of the base station, the
technician is likely working in a hostile environment. For
instance, when making connections to the antenna system, the
technician may be high above the ground near the top of a cellular
tower of the base station. Due to the hostile working environment,
it may be relatively easy to make installation errors, such as
connecting a radio of the radio system to the wrong antenna.
Further, weatherproofing may be installed over the connections made
to an antenna system. Removal of this weather proofing may be a
messy and time-consuming process if the connections need to be
corrected.
[0021] To decrease the likelihood of errors, a cellular tower plate
connection system, as detailed herein, may be used. Prior to the
technician climbing a cellular tower or opening a radio system,
cables can be properly routed between two plate assemblies,
referred to as a radio plate assembly and an antenna plate
assembly. These connections can be made in a relatively convenient
location, such as on the ground or at a company's facility. On
site, at the base station, the technician may connect the antenna
plate assembly to the antenna system. Connection of the antenna
plate assembly to the antenna system may only be possible in a
particular orientation, which may be particularly useful if the
technician is atop a cellular tower. Therefore, it may not be
possible (or may be difficult or obviously wrong) to connect the
antenna plate assembly in such a way that would result in incorrect
connections being made between the antenna plate assembly and the
antenna system. Similarly, on site, the technician may connect the
radio plate assembly to the radio system. Connection of the radio
plate to the radio system may only be possible in a particular
orientation (or may be obvious if done wrong or difficult to do
wrong). Therefore, it may not be possible or may be difficult to
connect the radio plate in such a way that would result in
incorrect connections being made between the radio plate and the
radio system.
[0022] Additionally or alternatively, keyed connectors may be used
to help ensure the proper connections are made. Such keyed
connectors may be used for connections involving: antennas, radios,
BBUs, DUs, and/or cellular site routers. If an antenna plate
assembly and radio plate assembly are used, keyed connectors may be
used for the connections with cables running between the antenna
plate assembly and the radio plate assembly. Alternatively, if an
antenna plate assembly and/or a radio plate assembly are not used,
keyed connectors may be used to make connections directly between
the radio system and cables and/or between the antenna system and
cables. Each cable assembly that is to be connected between a radio
system antenna system or between a radio plate assembly and an
antenna plate assembly may be keyed differently than some or all of
the other cables to be similarly used. Each cable assembly may have
a similarly keyed connector on each end. This connector may be
keyed to only connect with a particular cable port of each plate
assembly (or directly with the system). That way, the cable can be
reversed and still be used to make the correct connection. By
keying the individual connectors of the cable assemblies
differently, it may be impossible or difficult for a technician to
inadvertently make an incorrect connection between plate assemblies
or directly between the radio system and antenna system.
[0023] Further detail regarding such embodiments is provided in
relation to the figures. FIG. 1A and FIG. 1B illustrate an
embodiment of a cellular tower plate connection system 100 ("system
100"). FIGS. 1A and 1B illustrate the same embodiment of system
100. For clarity, some callouts are indicated on FIG. 1A and others
are indicated on FIG. 1B.
[0024] System 100 is shown with connections between the plate
assemblies, the cable assemblies, the radio system, and the antenna
system disconnected. System 100 can include: radio system 110;
radio plate assembly 120; cable assemblies 130; antenna plate
assembly 140; and antenna system 150. Radio system 110 and antenna
system 150 may be components of a cellular network base station.
Antenna system 150 can include some number of antennas, which are
typically located in an elevated location to improve communication
with user terminals, such as atop a cellular tower. Radio system
110 may typically be located a short distance from antenna system
150, such as on the ground in a housing near the cellular tower.
Radio system 110 may have multiple input and/or output radio ports
113 that are used for outputting signals and receiving input
signals from antenna system 150. For example, radio ports 113 may
be fiber-optic ports, coaxial ports, or some other form of optical
or wired communication ports. Similarly, antenna system 150 may
have multiple input and/or output ports 153 that are used for
outputting signals to and receiving input signals from antenna
system 150. Each of ports 153 may correspond to a particular port
of radio ports 113. For example, ports 153 may be fiber-optic
ports, coaxial ports, or some other form of optical or wired
communication ports that match radio ports 113.
[0025] Radio plate assembly 120 can include: radio plate 121;
attachment mechanism 122; attachment mechanism 123; weather seal
124; radio port connectors 125; and cable ports 126. Radio plate
121 may be a rigid or semi-rigid plate made out of materials such
as plastic or metal onto or through which various connections
between radio port connectors 125 and cable ports 126 are present.
Radio port connectors 125 may be arranged on radio plate 121 such
that radio port connectors 125 each align with a corresponding
radio port of radio ports 113. Due to the position of radio port
connectors 125, it may only be possible to connect radio port
connectors 125 to radio ports 113 in one particular orientation.
Therefore, it may not be possible for a technician to form
connections between radio port connectors 125 and radio ports 113
if radio plate assembly 120 is in an incorrect orientation.
[0026] When radio plate assembly 120 is pressed onto radio ports
113, connections between radio ports 113 and radio port connectors
125 may be made simultaneously or nearly simultaneously. Further,
weather seal 124 may form a barrier around radio ports 113 and
radio port connectors 125. Weather seal 124 may be an O-ring that
can be compressed when radio plate assembly 120 is pressed onto
radio ports 113.
[0027] When connections have been formed between radio ports 113
and radio port connectors 125, some form of attachment mechanism
may be engaged to hold radio plate assembly 120 in place against
radio system 110. In system 100, attachment mechanism 122 latches
onto protrusion 111 and attachment mechanism 123 latches onto
protrusion 112. Attachment mechanisms 122 and 123 can be disengaged
by a technician if radio plate assembly 120 needs to be
disconnected from radio system 110. While attachment mechanisms 122
and 123 latch onto protrusions 111 and 112 in the illustrated
embodiment, other forms of attachment mechanisms are possible. For
example, an attachment mechanism may use one or more screw
fasteners, adhesive, one or more clamps, friction-fastening, etc.
to removably secure radio system 110 with radio plate assembly
120.
[0028] On a side of radio plate 121 opposite the side on which
radio port connectors 125 are located, cable ports 126 may be
arranged. Each cable connector of cable ports 126 may be wired to a
corresponding radio port connector of radio port connectors 125. In
some embodiments, a cable connector of cable ports 126 is located
immediately opposite the corresponding radio port connector, which
can help minimize the length of wiring through radio plate 121.
Alternatively, cable ports 126 may be arranged in a different
pattern or order on radio plate 121 than the corresponding radio
port connectors on the opposite side.
[0029] Antenna plate assembly 140 can function largely similarly to
radio plate assembly 120, however antenna plate assembly connects
with antenna system 150. Therefore, the arrangement of ports on
antenna plate assembly 140 matches the arrangement of antenna ports
153. Antenna plate assembly 140 can include: antenna plate 141;
attachment mechanism 142; attachment mechanism 143; weather seal
144; antenna port connectors 145; and cable ports 146. Antenna
plate 141 may be a rigid or semi-rigid plate made out of materials
such as plastic or metal onto or through which various connections
between antenna port connectors 145 and cable ports 146 are
present. Antenna port connectors 145 may be arranged on antenna
plate 141 such that antenna port connectors 145 each align with a
corresponding antenna port of antenna ports 153. Due to the
position of antenna port connectors 145, it may only be possible to
connect antenna port connectors 145 to antenna ports 153 in one
particular orientation. Therefore, it may not be possible for a
technician to form connections between antenna port connectors 145
and antenna ports 153 if antenna plate assembly 140 is in an
incorrect orientation.
[0030] When antenna plate assembly 140 is pressed onto antenna
ports 153, connections between antenna ports 153 and antenna port
connectors 145 may be made simultaneously or nearly simultaneously.
Further, weather seal 144 may form a barrier around antenna ports
153 and antenna port connectors 145. Weather seal 144 may be an
O-ring that can be compressed when antenna plate assembly 140 is
pressed onto antenna ports 153. Other forms of weather seals are
possible, such as using a resin or water-repellant material that
can be applied by a technician.
[0031] When connections have been formed between antenna ports 153
and antenna port connectors 145, some form of attachment mechanism
may be engaged to hold antenna plate assembly 140 in place against
antenna system 150. In system 100, attachment mechanism 142 latches
onto protrusion 151 and attachment mechanism 143 latches onto
protrusion 152. Attachment mechanisms 142 and 143 can be disengaged
by a technician if antenna plate assembly 140 needs to be
disconnected from antenna system 150. While attachment mechanisms
142 and 143 latch onto protrusions 151 and 152 in the illustrated
embodiment, other forms of attachment mechanisms are possible. For
example, an attachment mechanism may use one or more screw
fasteners, adhesive, one or more clamps, friction-fastening, etc.
to removably secure antenna system 150 with antenna plate assembly
140.
[0032] On a side of antenna plate 141 opposite the side on which
antenna port connectors 145 are located, cable ports 146 may be
arranged. Each cable connector of cable ports 146 may be wired (or
otherwise connected) to a corresponding antenna port connector of
antenna port connectors 145. In some embodiments, a cable connector
of cable ports 146 is located immediately opposite the
corresponding antenna port connector, which can help minimize the
length of wiring through antenna plate 141. Alternatively, cable
ports 146 may be arranged in a different pattern or order on
antenna plate 141 than the corresponding antenna port connectors on
the opposite side.
[0033] Cable assemblies 130 can be used to connect each cable
connector of cable ports 126 to a corresponding cable connector of
cable ports 146. In some embodiments, each of cable ports 146 and
cable ports 126 may be keyed such that only a cable keyed to that
particular style connector can be fully connected to the cable
connector. Such an arrangement can help prevent incorrect
connections between cable ports 126 and cable ports 146. Each cable
of cable assemblies 130 may include a cable that matches the types
of signal (e.g., fiber optic cable for an optical signal,
conductive cable for an electrical signal).
[0034] Cable ports 126 may be connected to cable connectors 131 and
cable ports 146 may be connected to cable connectors 133. Each of
cable connectors 131 and 133 may form a weather tight seal with the
cable connector with which it is connected. Further detail
regarding cable connectors 131 and 133 and cable ports 126 and 146
is presented in relation to FIG. 3.
[0035] FIG. 1C illustrates an embodiment of the cellular tower
plate connection system 100C ("system 100C") with connections made
between the plate assemblies, the cable assemblies, the radio
system, and the antenna system. System 100C illustrates the same
embodiment as system 100, however, connections between radio system
110, radio plate assembly 120, cable assembles 130, antenna plate
assembly 140, and antenna system 150 have been made. Further,
attachment mechanisms 122, 123, 142, and 143 have been engaged with
the corresponding protrusions of radio system 110 and antenna
system 150.
[0036] FIG. 2A illustrates an embodiment of a front of plate
assembly 200. Plate assembly 200 can represent an embodiment of
radio plate assembly 120 or antenna plate assembly 140. For the
purposes of this example, plate assembly 200 is described as a
version of radio plate assembly 120. Each of cable ports 126, such
as cable ports 126-1, 126-2, and 126-3, may be connected with a
particular radio port connector present on the back of plate
assembly 200. In some embodiments, cable ports 126 may be keyed
differently from each other such that only a particular type of
designated cable may be attached to each cable port of cable ports
126. Further detail regarding keyed cable ports is described in
relation to FIGS. 5-10.
[0037] FIG. 2B illustrates an embodiment of a back of plate
assembly 200. As noted in relation to FIG. 2A, plate assembly 200
can represent radio plate assembly 120 or antenna plate assembly
140. For the purposes of this example, plate assembly 200 is
described as radio plate assembly 120. The back of plate assembly
200 may have radio port connectors 125. Each of radio port
connectors 125 may be positioned on radio plate 121 to match the
location of radio ports 113 on radio system 110. Plate assembly 200
may be mated with radio system 110 such that each radio port
connector of radio port connectors 125 connects or mates with a
matching radio port of radio ports 113. Plate assembly 200 can be
pushed against radio system 110 to connect radio port connectors
125 with radio ports 113. Further, by pushing plate assembly 200
against radio system 110, a weatherproof seal may be formed around
the formed connections, such as by weather seal 124. Further,
attachment mechanisms 122 and/or 123 may snap or otherwise attach
with radio system 110 to hold plate assembly 200 connected with the
ports of the radio system.
[0038] FIG. 3 illustrates an embodiment 300 of a connection being
made between a cable connector of a cable assembly and a cable port
of a plate assembly. In the illustrated example, a connection is
made between a cable and a cable port of a radio plate assembly.
Similar cable connections may be made to an antenna plate assembly.
Cable connector 131-1 may have a retractable sleeve 301.
Retractable sleeve 301 may be pulled in direction 302 to allow a
connection to be made or removed between cable connector 131-1 and
cable port 126-1 located on radio plate 121. When in the
unretracted position (to which retractable sleeve 301 may return
when force is not applied to retractable sleeve 301 in direction
302), retractable sleeve 301 may help form a weathertight seal
between cable connector 130-1 and cable port 126-1. While
retractable sleeve 301 is in the unretracted position, cable
connector 130-1 may be locked to cable port 126-1. Opposite cable
port 126-1 on radio plate 121 may be radio port connector 125-1. In
other embodiments, radio port connector 125-1 may be located in
some other location than directly opposite cable port 126-1 on
radio plate 121. The design of cable connector 131-1 is merely
representative; in other embodiments, alternative or additional
styles of cable connectors may be used for some or all of cable
connectors 131 and cable connectors 133.
[0039] Various methods may be performed using the systems and
devices detailed in relation to FIGS. 1A-3. FIG. 4 illustrates an
embodiment of a method 400 for using a cellular tower plate
connection system. Method 400 may be performed using system 100 of
FIGS. 1A and 1B. At block 405, multiple cables may be connected to
the cable connectors of the antenna plate assembly. Such
connections may be performed in a relatively technician-friendly
environment, such as on the ground or at a facility. In some
embodiments, each connection may be keyed such that a particular
cable may only be connected with a particular cable connector of
the antenna plate assembly. Prior to, during, or after block 405 is
performed, block 410 may be performed. At block 410, the multiple
cables may be connected to the cable connectors of the radio plate
assembly. Such connections may be performed in a relatively
technician-friendly environment, such as on the ground or at a
facility. In some embodiments, each connection may be keyed such
that a particular cable may only be connected with the correct
cable connector of the radio plate assembly.
[0040] Block 415 may be performed after block 405. Notably,
however, block 415 may be performed before block 410. At block 415,
after the cables have been connected to the antenna plate assembly,
the antenna plate assembly may be connected with the antenna
system. Block 415 may be performed in a relatively hostile
environment, such as atop a cellular tower where the antenna system
is located. Only a single possible orientation may allow the
antenna plate assembly to successfully mate with the ports of the
antenna system. Alternatively, if multiple orientations are
possible, the technician may only need to ensure that the antenna
plate assembly is properly oriented to ensure that all connections
with the antenna system are correct. When block 415 is performed,
multiple connections between ports of the antenna system and port
connectors of the antenna plate assembly may be made simultaneously
or nearly simultaneously. At block 420, an attachment mechanism or
more than one attachment mechanism may be engaged to secure the
antenna connection plate to the antenna system. This can include
engaging a clasp, a bracket, a screw-based fastener, or using an
adhesive.
[0041] Block 425 may be performed after block 410. Notably,
however, block 425 may be performed before block 405. At block 425,
after the cables have been connected to the radio plate assembly,
the radio plate assembly may be connected with the radio system.
Only a single possible orientation may allow the radio plate
assembly to successfully mate with the ports of the radio system.
Alternatively, if multiple orientations are possible, the
technician may only need to ensure that the radio plate assembly is
properly oriented to ensure that all connections with the radio
system are correct. When block 425 is performed, multiple
connections between ports of the radio system and port connectors
of the radio plate assembly may be made simultaneously or nearly
simultaneously. At block 430, an attachment mechanism or more than
one attachment mechanism may be engaged to secure the radio
connection plate to the radio system. This can include engaging a
clasp, a bracket, a screw-based fastener, or using an adhesive.
[0042] As previously mentioned, certain connections may be keyed to
prevent incorrect connections from being inadvertently made. The
following keyed cable ports and keyed cable connectors may be used
in conjunction with the antenna plate assemblies and radio plate
assemblies described in relation to FIGS. 1A-4. Alternatively, the
keyed cable ports and keyed cable connectors described herein may
also be used in embodiments that do not use the antenna plate
assemblies and radio plate assemblies described in relation to
FIGS. 1A-4. In such environments, the keyed cable ports may be
installed directly as part of the antenna systems and radio systems
and may be used to connect with the keyed cable connectors of
various cable assemblies. While the following examples are focused
on connections between antennas and radios and antenna plate
assemblies and radio plate assemblies, other embodiments of keyed
connectors can include connections between antennas, radios, BBUs,
DUs, and/or cellular site routers.
[0043] FIGS. 5 and 6 illustrate a first pair of a keyed cable port
and a keyed cable connector that can be connected together. FIG. 5
illustrates an embodiment of a keyed cable port 500. Keyed cable
port 500 can, for example, be used in place of the (non-keyed)
cable port 126-1 of plate assembly 200. Again, as previously
detailed, plate assembly 200 can be a radio plate assembly or an
antenna plate assembly. Alternatively, if plate assemblies are not
being used, keyed cable port 500 can be used as a port of radio
ports 113 or antenna ports 153.
[0044] Keyed cable port 500 can include baseplate 501; outer port
cover 510; signal carrier 520; and keyed protrusions 530. Baseplate
501 may be fastened, such as by using screws, to a plate assembly,
such as plate assembly 200 of FIG. 2A, or directly to a system,
such as radio system 110. Outer port cover 510 may serve to
physically connect with an outer covering of a keyed cable
connector. Signal carrier 520 may be configured to receive an
electrical or optical signal. Signal carrier 520 may, for example,
receive a tip of an optical cable or an electrical conductor.
[0045] Arranged around an inner portion of outer port cover 510 may
be some number of keyed protrusions 530. In the example of keyed
cable port 500, two keyed protrusions are present: 530-1 and 530-2.
In other embodiments, fewer or greater numbers of keyed protrusions
530 may be present. Keyed protrusions 530 may be arranged in a
pattern that is only present in a single cable port of the cable
ports on a particular system or plate assembly. For example, only a
single cable port of cable ports 126 may be keyed according to the
pattern formed by keyed protrusions 530 on keyed cable port 500. A
cable port of cable ports 146 may be keyed according to the same
pattern formed by keyed protrusions 530. Therefore, ports intended
to be connected together may be keyed the same.
[0046] FIG. 6 illustrates an embodiment of a keyed cable connector
600. Keyed cable connector 600 is designed to be able to connect
with keyed cable port 500 but not connect with other cable ports
keyed differently. Keyed cable connector 600 can include: outer
connector cover 610; signal carrier 620; and key interference
protrusions 630. Outer connector cover 610 may be sized in order to
removably slide or screw onto outer port cover 510. Signal carrier
620 may be sized in order to connect with signal carrier 520.
Therefore, for optical cabling, a fiber-optic connection may be
formed between signal carrier 520 and signal carrier 620. For
electrical cabling, electrical connection may be formed between
signal carrier 520 and signal carrier 620.
[0047] Keyed cable connector 600 may be attached to the end of the
cable. For example, a cable assembly of cable assemblies 130 may
include a first instance of keyed cable connector 600 on a first
end of the cable and a second instance of keyed cable connector 600
on the second end of the cable. If the same style keyed cable
connector is used on both ends of the cable, the cable may
therefore be reversible.
[0048] Keyed cable connector 600 can include a number of key
interference protrusions 630 or, more generally, some form of
physical element that allows mating with only a particular style of
cable port. For keyed cable connector 600, key interference
protrusions 630-1, 630-2, 630-3, 630-4, and 630-5 may be present. A
gap 631 may be present. The presence of gap 631 in the arrangement
of key interference protrusions 630 may permit keyed cable
connector 600 to be fully connected with keyed cable port 500. Gap
631 in key interference protrusions 630 provides for space for
keyed protrusions 530.
[0049] FIGS. 7 and 8 illustrate a second pair of a keyed cable port
and a keyed cable connector that can be connected together. FIG. 7
illustrates an embodiment of a keyed cable port 700. Keyed cable
port 700 can, for example, be used in place of the (non-keyed)
cable port 126-2 of plate assembly 200. Again, as previously
detailed, plate assembly 200 can be a radio plate assembly or an
antenna plate assembly. Alternatively, if plate assemblies are not
being used, keyed cable port 700 can be used as a port of radio
ports 113 or antenna ports 153.
[0050] Keyed cable port 700 has similar components to keyed cable
port 500 of FIG. 5. Keyed cable port 700 can include baseplate 701;
outer port cover 710; signal carrier 720; and keyed protrusions
730. Baseplate 701 may be fastened, such as by using screws, to a
plate assembly, such as plate assembly 200 of FIG. 2A, or directly
to a system, such as radio system 110. Outer port cover 710 may
serve to physically connect with an outer covering of a keyed cable
connector. Signal carrier 720 may be configured to receive an
electrical or optical signal. Signal carrier 720 may, for example,
receive a tip of an optical cable or an electrical conductor.
[0051] Arranged around an inner portion of outer port cover 710 may
be some number of keyed protrusions 730. In the example of keyed
cable port 700, two keyed protrusions are present: 730-1 and 730-2.
In other embodiments, fewer or greater numbers of keyed protrusions
730 may be present. Keyed protrusions 730 may be arranged in a
pattern that is only present in a single cable port of the cable
ports on a particular system or plate assembly. Notably, keyed
protrusions 730 are arranged in a different pattern than keyed
protrusions 530, which results in a differently keyed cable
connector being needed to form a connection.
[0052] Only a single cable port of cable ports 126 may be keyed
according to the pattern formed by keyed protrusions 730 on keyed
cable port 700. A cable port of cable ports 146 may be keyed
according to the same pattern formed by keyed protrusions 730.
Therefore, ports intended to be connected together may be keyed the
same.
[0053] FIG. 8 illustrates an embodiment of a keyed cable connector
800. Keyed cable connector 800 is designed to be able to connect
with keyed cable port 700 but not connect with other cable ports
keyed differently, such as keyed cable port 500. Keyed cable
connector 800 can include: outer connector cover 810; signal
carrier 820; and key interference protrusions 830. Outer connector
cover 810 may be sized in order to removably slide or screw onto
outer port cover 710. Signal carrier 820 may be sized in order to
connect with signal carrier 720. Therefore, for optical cabling, a
fiber-optic connection may be formed between signal carrier 720 and
signal carrier 820. For electrical cabling, electrical connection
may be formed between signal carrier 720 and signal carrier
820.
[0054] Keyed cable connector 800 may be attached to the end of the
cable. For example, a cable assembly of cable assemblies 130 may
include a first instance of keyed cable connector 800 on a first
end of the cable and a second instance of keyed cable connector 800
on the second end of the cable. If the same style keyed cable
connector is used on both ends of the cable, the cable may
therefore be reversible.
[0055] Keyed cable connector 800 can include a number of key
interference protrusions 830. For keyed cable connector 800,
interference protrusions 830-1, 830-2, 830-3, and 830-4 may be
present. Gaps 831 and 832 may be present. The presence of gaps 831
and 832 in the arrangement of key interference protrusions 830 may
permit keyed cable connector 800 to be fully connected with keyed
cable port 700. Gap 831 in key interference protrusions 830
provides for space for keyed protrusion 730-2. Gap 832 in key
interference protrusions 830 provides for space for keyed
protrusion 730-1. Keyed interference protrusion 830-1 may fit
between keyed protrusions 730-1 and 730-2.
[0056] FIGS. 9 and 10 illustrate a third pair of a keyed cable port
and a keyed cable connector that can be connected together. FIG. 9
illustrates an embodiment of a keyed cable port 900. Keyed cable
port 900 can, for example, be used in place of the non-keyed cable
port 126-3 of plate assembly 200. Again, as previously detailed,
plate assembly 200 can be a radio plate assembly or an antenna
plate assembly. Alternatively, if plate assemblies are not being
used, keyed cable port 900 can be used as a port of radio ports 113
or antenna ports 153.
[0057] Keyed cable port 900 has similar components to keyed cable
port 500 of FIG. 5 and keyed cable port 700 of FIG. 7. Keyed cable
port 900 can include baseplate 901; outer port cover 910; signal
carrier 920; and keyed protrusions 930. Baseplate 901 may be
fastened, such as by using screws, to a plate assembly, such as
plate assembly 200 of FIG. 2A, or directly to a system, such as
radio system 110. Outer port cover 910 may serve to physically
connect with an outer covering of a keyed cable connector. Signal
carrier 920 may be configured to receive an electrical or optical
signal. Signal carrier 920 may, for example, receive a tip of an
optical cable or an electrical conductor.
[0058] Arranged around an inner portion of outer port cover 910 may
be some number of keyed protrusions 930. In the example of keyed
cable port 900, four keyed protrusions are present: 930-1, 930-2,
930-3, and 930-4. In other embodiments, fewer or greater numbers of
keyed protrusions 930 may be present. Keyed protrusions 930 may be
arranged in a pattern that is only present in a single cable port
of the cable ports on a particular system or plate assembly.
Notably, keyed protrusions 930 are arranged in a different pattern
than keyed protrusions 530 and keyed protrusions 730, which results
in a differently keyed cable connector being needed to form a
connection.
[0059] Only a single cable port of cable ports 126 may be keyed
according to the pattern formed by keyed protrusions 930 on keyed
cable port 900. A cable port of cable ports 146 may be keyed
according to the same pattern formed by keyed protrusions 930.
Therefore, ports intended to be connected together may be keyed the
same.
[0060] FIG. 10 illustrates an embodiment of a keyed cable connector
1000. Keyed cable connector 1000 is designed to be able to connect
with keyed cable port 900 but not connect with other cable ports
keyed differently, such as keyed cable port 500 of FIG. 5 or keyed
cable port 700 of FIG. 7. Keyed cable connector 1000 can include:
outer connector cover 1010; signal carrier 1020; and key
interference protrusions 1030. Outer connector cover 1010 may be
sized in order to removably slide or screw onto outer port cover
910. Signal carrier 1020 may be sized in order to connect with
signal carrier 920. Therefore, for optical cabling, a fiber-optic
connection may be formed between signal carrier 920 and signal
carrier 1020. For electrical cabling, electrical connection may be
formed between signal carrier 920 and signal carrier 1020.
[0061] Keyed cable connector 1000 may be attached to the end of the
cable. For example, a cable assembly of cable assemblies 130 may
include a first instance of keyed cable connector 1000 on a first
end of the cable and a second instance of keyed cable connector
1000 on the second of the cable. If the same style keyed cable
connector is used on both ends of the cable, the cable may
therefore be reversible.
[0062] Keyed cable connector 1000 can include a number of key
interference protrusions 1030. For keyed cable connector 1000, key
interference protrusions 1030-1, 1030-2, 1030-3, and 1030-4 may be
present. Gaps 1031, 1032, 1033, and 1034 may be present. The
presence of gaps 1031-1034 in the arrangement of key interference
protrusions 1030 may permit keyed cable connector 1000 to be fully
connected with keyed cable port 900. Gap 1031 in key interference
protrusions 1030 provides for space for keyed protrusion 930-2. Gap
1032 in key interference protrusions 1030 provides for space for
keyed protrusion 930-3. Gap 1033 in key interference protrusions
1030 provides for space for keyed protrusion 930-4. Gap 1034 in key
interference protrusions 1030 provides for space for keyed
protrusion 930-1.
[0063] The remaining cable connectors of a system or plate assembly
may be similarly each keyed differently to prevent incorrect
connections. It should be understood that the specific keying
patterns, locations of connectors, locations of ports, numbers of
connectors, and numbers of ports are merely examples. The specific
designs of the ports and connectors can vary by embodiment.
Further, in some embodiments, a design similar to the keyed cable
connectors may instead be attached to the plate assemblies and a
design similar to the keyed cable ports may be used as part of a
cable assembly.
[0064] The methods, systems, and devices discussed above are
examples. Various configurations may omit, substitute, or add
various procedures or components as appropriate. For instance, in
alternative configurations, the methods may be performed in an
order different from that described, and/or various stages may be
added, omitted, and/or combined. Also, features described with
respect to certain configurations may be combined in various other
configurations. Different aspects and elements of the
configurations may be combined in a similar manner. Also,
technology evolves and, thus, many of the elements are examples and
do not limit the scope of the disclosure or claims.
[0065] Specific details are given in the description to provide a
thorough understanding of example configurations (including
implementations). However, configurations may be practiced without
these specific details. This description provides example
configurations only, and does not limit the scope, applicability,
or configurations of the claims. Rather, the preceding description
of the configurations will provide those skilled in the art with an
enabling description for implementing described techniques. Various
changes may be made in the function and arrangement of elements
without departing from the spirit or scope of the disclosure.
[0066] Also, configurations may be described as a process which is
depicted as a flow diagram or block diagram. Although each may
describe the operations as a sequential process, many of the
operations can be performed in parallel or concurrently. In
addition, the order of the operations may be rearranged. A process
may have additional steps not included in the figure.
[0067] Having described several example configurations, various
modifications, alternative constructions, and equivalents may be
used without departing from the spirit of the disclosure. For
example, the above elements may be components of a larger system,
wherein other rules may take precedence over or otherwise modify
the application of the invention. Also, a number of steps may be
undertaken before, during, or after the above elements are
considered.
* * * * *