Techniques and apparatus for controlling access to components of a personal communication structure (PCS)

Techniques and apparatus for controlling access to a personal communication structure (PCS) are described. The PCS may include independently accessible compartments at least partially enclosing respective subsystems of the PCS. The independently accessible compartments include an electronics compartment, a communications compartment, and a display compartment. The electronics, communications, and display compartments at least partially enclose a power distribution subsystem, a communications subsystem, and a display subsystem, respectively. The PCS also includes an access controller operable to provide access independently to respective interiors of at least a subset of the compartments to authorized users.

FIELD OF INVENTION

The present disclosure relates generally to techniques and apparatus for controlling access to components of a personal communication structure (PCS). Some embodiments relate specifically to techniques and apparatus for compartmentalizing subsystems of a PCS and independently controlling access to the individual compartments.

BACKGROUND

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.

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

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.

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.).

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.

The interior portions of a PCS may be secured to protect the PCS's components from vandalism, theft, and damage (e.g., from unwanted handling or exposure to the ambient environment), protect people from safety hazards (e.g., electrical hazards), prevent unauthorized parties from accessing the PCS's components, etc.

Nevertheless, from time to time it may be necessary or desirable for authorized parties to access the PCS's internal components. For example, it may be desirable for an authorized party to access a PCS component to perform maintenance, to perform tests, to repair or replace the component, to adjust the component's settings, etc. In some cases, it may be desirable for one party to have access to one set of PCS components and for another party to have access to another set of PCS components, without either party having access to both sets of components. More generally, it may be desirable for different parties to have access only to specified subsets of the PCS's components. For example, it may be desirable for an electricians' union to have access to the PCS's power distribution components, so that the union's electricians can maintain or repair the power distribution subsystem, but there may be no reason for the electricians to have access to any other PCS components.

There is a need for a personal communication structure (PCS) with components divided among independently accessible, independently secured compartments, such that suitable parties can be granted access to some PCS components, without granting those parties access to other PCS components. Such an arrangement of secure PCS compartment may facilitate maintenance and operation of the PCS in scenarios where different maintenance providers and/or operators of the PCS need access only to limited subsets of the PCS's components.

According to an aspect of the present disclosure, a PCS is provided including independently accessible compartments at least partially enclosing respective subsystems of the PCS. The independently accessible compartments include an electronics compartment, a communications compartment, and a display compartment. The electronics, communications, and display compartments at least partially enclose a power distribution subsystem, a communications subsystem, and a display subsystem, respectively. The PCS also includes an access controller operable to provide access independently to respective interiors of at least a subset of the compartments.

In some embodiments, the electronics compartment further at least partially encloses a networking subsystem and/or a maintenance subsystem. In some embodiments, the electronics compartment includes a power distribution compartment and an independently accessible networking compartment, wherein the power distribution compartment at least partially encloses the power distribution subsystem, and wherein the networking compartment at least partially encloses a networking subsystem. In some embodiments, the independently accessible compartments further include a networking compartment at least partially enclosing a networking subsystem and/or a maintenance compartment at least partially enclosing a maintenance subsystem. In some embodiments, the electronics compartment includes an access panel movable between an open position and a closed position, and a lock operable to lock the access panel in the closed position. In some embodiments, the access controller is operable to provide access to an interior of the electronics compartment by disengaging the lock and/or moving the access panel to the open position. In some embodiments, the electronics compartment is disposed along a lower portion of the PCS.

In some embodiments, the communications subsystem includes at least one communication device selected from the group consisting of a wireless access point, a radio access node, and an antenna. In some embodiments, the radio access node includes a small cell operable to communicate with 3G mobile networks, 4G mobile networks, and/or LTE mobile networks. In some embodiments, at least one side of the communications compartment is attached to a frame of the PCS by at least one security fastener. In some embodiments, the communications compartment is located proximate a top of the PCS.

In some embodiments, the display subsystem includes a display panel operable to display images. In some embodiments, the display compartment includes an access member movable between an open position and a closed position, and a lock operable to lock the access member in the closed position. In some embodiments, the lock includes a connector coupled to the access member and a mating interlocking connector coupled to a frame of the PCS. In some embodiments, the access member includes a housing, wherein the housing includes a frame, a transparent covering secured to the frame, and a cavity formed by the frame and the transparent covering, and wherein the display panel is secured to the frame and disposed within the cavity. In some embodiments, the access controller is operable to provide access to an interior of the display compartment by disengaging the lock and/or moving the access member to the open position. In some embodiments, the display compartment is disposed along an upper portion of the PCS.

In some embodiments, the access controller includes a processing device, wherein the subset of the independently accessible compartments include respective locks, and wherein the processing device is configured to independently disengage the respective locks. In some embodiments, the processing device is adapted to disengage each of the locks by controlling a solenoid driver, a rotary actuator, a linear actuator, an electromagnet, a cam, and/or a lever. In some embodiments, the access controller is configured to detect closure of an access member of at least one compartment, wherein the access member is movable between an open position and a closed position, and wherein the access controller is configured to engage the lock associated with the at least one compartment based on detection of the closure of the access member.

In some embodiments, the processing device is configured to receive authentication data and to disengage at least one of the locks based on the authentication data meeting authentication requirements associated with the locks. In some embodiments, the access controller further includes a data input device configured to provide the authentication data to the processing device. In some embodiments, the access controller is configured to detect unauthorized access and/or attempted unauthorized access. In some embodiments, the access controller is configured to collect evidence of the unauthorized access and/or the attempted unauthorized access. In some embodiments, the PCS further includes a camera, wherein the access controller is configured to collect the evidence by operating the camera to acquire at least one image of a region proximate to the PCS. In some embodiments, the access controller is configured to provide an alert regarding the unauthorized access and/or the attempted unauthorized access. In some embodiments, the access controller is configured to provide the alert by performing sounding an alarm, displaying a message via the display subsystem, and/or sending a silent alert to a security provider.

In some embodiments, the independently accessible compartments further include a user interface compartment at least partially enclosing a user interface subsystem. In some embodiments, the PCS further includes an air intake compartment at least partially enclosing an air intake subsystem. In some embodiments, the PCS further includes a mounting compartment, wherein the mounting compartment encloses at least one power connection and at least one network connection.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a personal communication structure (PCS) is provided including a plurality of independently accessible compartments at least partially enclosing respective subsystems of the PCS. The plurality of independently accessible compartments include an electronics compartment disposed along a lower portion of the PCS, a communications compartment located proximate a top of the PCS, and a display compartment disposed along an upper portion of the PCS. The electronics compartment at least partially encloses a power distribution subsystem. The communications compartment at least partially encloses a communications subsystem. The display compartment at least partially encloses a display subsystem.

In some embodiments, the electronics compartment further at least partially encloses a networking subsystem and/or a maintenance subsystem. In some embodiments, the electronics compartment includes an access panel movable between an open position and a closed position, and a lock operable to lock the access panel in the closed position. In some embodiments, the access controller is operable to provide access to an interior of the electronics compartment by disengaging the lock and/or moving the access panel to the open position.

In some embodiments, the communications subsystem includes at least one communication device selected from the group consisting of a wireless access point, a radio access node, and an antenna. In some embodiments, the radio access node includes a small cell. In some embodiments, the small cell is operable to communicate with 3G mobile networks, 4G mobile networks, and/or LTE mobile networks.

In some embodiments, the display subsystem includes a display panel operable to display images. In some embodiments, the display compartment includes an access member movable between an open position and a closed position, and a lock operable to lock the access member in the closed position. In some embodiments, the lock includes a connector coupled to the access member and a mating interlocking connector coupled to a frame of the PCS. In some embodiments, the access member includes a housing, wherein the housing includes a frame, a transparent covering secured to the frame, and a cavity formed by the frame and the transparent covering, and wherein the display panel is secured to the frame and disposed within the cavity. In some embodiments, the access controller is operable to provide access to an interior of the display compartment by disengaging the lock and/or moving the access member to the open position.

In some embodiments, the PCS further includes an access controller operable to provide access independently to respective interiors of at least a subset of the compartments. In some embodiments, the access controller includes a processing device, wherein the subset of the independently accessible compartments include respective locks, and wherein the processing device is configured to independently disengage the respective locks. In some embodiments, the processing device is configured to receive authentication data and to disengage at least one of the locks based on the authentication data meeting authentication requirements associated with the locks.

In some embodiments, the PCS further includes a data input device adapted to provide the authentication data to the processing device, and an air intake compartment at least partially enclosing an air intake subsystem and the data input device. In some embodiments, the independently accessible compartments further include a user interface compartment at least partially enclosing a user interface subsystem.

According to another aspect of the present disclosure, an access-control method for a personal communication structure (PCS) is provided. The method includes receiving authentication data via an interface of the PCS. The PCS includes a plurality of independently accessible compartments at least partially enclosing respective subsystems of the PCS. The plurality of independently accessible compartments includes an electronics compartment at least partially enclosing a power distribution subsystem, a communications compartment at least partially enclosing a communications subsystem, and a display compartment at least partially enclosing a display subsystem. The method further includes, based, at least in part, on a determination that the authentication data meets authentication requirements associated with a first of the independently accessible compartments, providing access to an interior of the first compartment without providing access to interiors of other independently accessible compartments.

In some embodiments, providing access to the interior of the first compartment includes moving an access panel of the first compartment from a closed position to an open position and/or disengaging a lock coupled to the access panel. In some embodiments, the access panel of the first compartment is moved to the open position without moving access panels of the other independently accessible compartments. In some embodiments, the lock of the first compartment is disengaged without disengaging locks of the other independently accessible compartments.

In some embodiments, the method further includes receiving permission to provide authorized access to the interior of the first compartment, wherein the access to the interior of the first compartment is provided based, at least in part, on the receipt of the permission to provide authorized access to the interior of the first compartment and on the determination that the authentication data meets the authentication requirements associated with the first compartment. In some embodiments, the permission to provide authorized access to the interior of the first compartment is received from a remote entity through a communication network. In some embodiments, the permission to provide authorized access to the interior of the first compartment is limited to a specified time period. In some embodiments, the specified time period is based, at least in part, on a repair schedule and/or a maintenance schedule.

In some embodiments, the method further includes requesting permission to provide authorized access to the interior of the first compartment, prior to receiving the permission. In some embodiments, the step of requesting permission is based on a maintenance subsystem of the PCS recommending servicing of a component of the PCS accessible via the first compartment. In some embodiments, the step of requesting the permission to provide authorized access to the interior of the first compartment includes transmitting a code to at least one of an address and a phone number associated with a security provider.

In some embodiments, the method further includes providing an indication that authorized access to the interior of the first compartment is permitted. In some embodiments, providing the indication includes activating a light on the PCS, activating a light on the first compartment, and/or displaying a message.

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.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Overview of Personal Communication Structure (PCS)

FIG. 1illustrates a personal communication structure (PCS)100, according to some embodiments. PCS100enhances access to communication networks in public or semi-public places. In some embodiments, PCS100includes an electronics subsystem140, a user interface subsystem150, a temperature control subsystem160, a display subsystem170, a communications subsystem180, and/or a mounting subsystem190. Electronics subsystem140may include a power distribution subsystem110, a network subsystem120, and/or a maintenance subsystem130. These and other components of PCS100are described in further detail below.

Power distribution subsystem110distributes electrical power to components of PCS100. Power distribution subsystem100may provide power to network subsystem120, maintenance subsystem130, other components of electronics subsystem140, user interface subsystem150, temperature control subsystem160, display subsystem170, and/or communications subsystem180. Power distribution subsystem110may distribute power provided by any suitable power source(s) including, without limitation, batteries, solar panels, a power line112coupled to a power grid, etc. In some embodiments, power distribution subsystem110includes 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 subsystem110includes 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 subsystem110may be coupled to a reference potential114via the chassis of the PCS or via any other suitable path.

FIG. 2shows a schematic of a power distribution subsystem110, according to some embodiments. In some embodiments, power distribution subsystem (PDS)110includes a power conversion system204, a power distribution board202, and a battery206. The inputs to power conversion system204include AC power supply signals (e.g., 120 VAC at 60 Hz) carried on a hot line212, a neutral line214, and a ground line216. In some embodiments, the hot line212and neutral line214may be coupled to power conversion system204by quick disconnect devices207and208, respectively, whereby the hot and neutral lines may be safely disconnected from power distribution subsystem110if the PCS is separated from its footing. Ground line216may be coupled to a ground terminal of the PCS100. Power conversion system204processes the AC power supply signals and converts the processed signals into DC power supply signals. In some embodiments, power conversion system204includes a current transformer222, AC power distribution unit223, ground-fault circuit interrupter224(e.g., circuit breakers), AC line filter226, and rectifier218. Rectifier218may function as a DC power supply (e.g., a 24 V, 75 A, 2 kW DC power supply). As can be seen inFIG. 2, the outputs of various components of power conversion system204may be provided as inputs to power distribution board202.

Power distribution board202may detect power system faults and distribute DC power signals to other components of the PCS. In some embodiments, power distribution board202uses the AC signals provided by power conversion system204to perform fault detection (e.g., ground fault detection, stray voltage detection, etc.). In some embodiments, power distribution board202uses the DC power supply signals provided by power conversion system204and/or battery206to 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 PCS100.

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 subsystem170) reduces in-rush current demand on power supply218. In some embodiments, the power distribution subsystem110is 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.

Battery206may provide backup power for components of PCS100, including but not limited to user interface subsystem150, which may implement emergency communication (e.g., E911) functionality. In some embodiments, power distribution board202may charge battery206(e.g., at 24 VDC) when power conversion system204is producing DC power and PCS100is not using all the available DC power. In some embodiments, a solar charging system may charge battery206during power outages or at other times.

In some embodiments, the power distribution subsystem110can detect whether the ground-fault circuit interrupter224has tripped. The ability to detect activation of the ground-fault circuit interrupter224can 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 interrupter224has tripped. A suitable message can then be sent to the maintenance center, indicating, for example, whether the PCS requires service.

Returning toFIG. 1, network subsystem120controls communication on a network124within PCS100, and communication between internal network124and a network126external to the PCS. In some embodiments, network subsystem120uses network124to communicate with power distribution system110, maintenance subsystem130, user interface subsystem150, temperature control subsystem160, display subsystem170, and/or communications subsystem180. The nodes of network124may be arranged in one or more suitable network topologies, including, without limitation, a bus (e.g., with network subsystem120as the bus controller), star network (e.g., with network subsystem120as the central hub), ring network, mesh network, tree network, point-to-point network, etc. Network124may 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.

Network subsystem120may send and receive any suitable data. For example, network subsystem120may control the operation of other components of PCS100by sending control data to the PCS's subsystems. Network subsystem120may forward commands received from a suitable source, including, without limitation, other PCS subsystems and/or network126. As another example, network subsystem120may send operand data to components of PCS100for processing by those components (e.g., data to be displayed by display subsystem170or user interface subsystem150, data to be transmitted by communications subsystem180, etc.).

In some embodiments, network subsystem120communicates with network126via data link122. Data link122may be implemented using a suitable communications line, including, without limitation, an Ethernet cable, coaxial cable, or optical fiber. In some embodiments, network subsystem120may include a signal conversion device adapted to convert the signals received on data link122from one form (e.g., optical signals) into another form (e.g., electrical signals).

FIG. 3shows a schematic of a network subsystem120, in accordance with some embodiments. In one embodiment, network subsystem120includes a fiber junction box302, a service delivery switch304, and a network switch306. In the example ofFIG. 3, data link122includes one or more optical fibers. Fiber junction box302may optically couple the optical fibers of data link122to one or more internal optical fibers322. In some embodiments, fiber junction box302includes one or more quick disconnect devices, whereby the optical fibers of data link122may be protected from damage if PCS100is separated from its footing. Service delivery switch304may convert the optical signals received on optical fibers322into electrical signals representing network traffic (e.g., Ethernet packets), and provide that network traffic to network switch306. Likewise, service delivery switch304may convert the network traffic (e.g., Ethernet packets) received from network switch306into optical signals, and provide those optical signals to fiber junction box302. Network switch306may switch network traffic between PCS subsystems, or between a PCS subsystem and network126. In some embodiments, network switch306is an Ethernet switch. Network switch306may be powered by power distribution subsystem110.

In some embodiments, network subsystem120includes a power-over-Ethernet (POE) injector308. The POE injector308may provide power to one or more PCS subsystems, including, without limitation, communications subsystem180.

Returning toFIG. 1, maintenance subsystem130runs maintenance diagnostics on components of PCS100. In some embodiments, maintenance subsystem130performs 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 PCS100may perform such tests in response to commands received via network subsystem120(e.g., commands issued by a PCS operator via network126or via communications subsystem180), or in response to other suitable events.

Based on the results of such tests, maintenance subsystem130may determine whether a tested component is operating properly. If a tested component is not operating properly, maintenance subsystem130may output data describing the component's malfunction (e.g., transmit an error code to a PCS operator via network126or communications subsystem180, display an error message via display subsystem170or user interface subsystem150, 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.

In some embodiments, maintenance subsystem130may be adapted to control or adjust the operation of power distribution subsystem110, for safety purposes or other suitable purposes. As described above, if a safety hazard is detected, maintenance subsystem130may control power distribution subsystem110to deactivate the PCS100or the unsafe component(s). Alternatively, maintenance subsystem130may control power distribution subsystem110to “power cycle” or “reboot” a malfunctioning component.

FIG. 4shows a schematic of a maintenance subsystem130, in accordance with some embodiments. In various embodiments, maintenance subsystem130includes one or more processing devices400. 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)400may communicate with other components of PCS100via network subsystem120to perform maintenance tasks, or for other suitable purposes. In some embodiments, processing device(s)400are powered by power distribution subsystem110.

Returning toFIG. 1, in addition to power distribution subsystem110, network subsystem120, and/or maintenance subsystem130, electronics subsystem140may include other components. In some embodiments, electronics subsystem140includes 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 subsystem150or other portions of PCS100. In some embodiments, electronics subsystem140includes 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.

User interface subsystem150provides an interactive user interface, which may be used to access a communication network. Referring toFIG. 5, user interface subsystem150may include one or more user input devices552, output devices554, network modules556(e.g., network interface controllers, wireless transceivers, etc.), processing devices557, and/or power supply ports558. The user input device(s)552may include, without limitation, a touchscreen, touchpad, keyboard, keypad, trackball, one or more microphones, camera, buttons, switches, etc. The output device(s)554may 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 modules556may 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 modules556may be configured to access network126via network subsystem120or to access a communication network via communications subsystem180. 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 ports558may 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.

User interface subsystem150may enhance users' access to communication networks in several ways. In some embodiments, user interface subsystem150may 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)552to 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)557and 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 subsystem150via a network module556(e.g., a Wi-Fi access point), and access a communication network via another network module556(e.g., a mobile network transceiver), via communications subsystem180, or via network126. As yet another example, users may charge mobile computing devices via power supply port(s)558, and access communication networks through the charged devices.

In some embodiments, PCS100includes 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 subsystem150, or disposed at another suitable location in, on, or near PCS100.

In some embodiments, user interface subsystem150includes 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.

In some embodiments, user interface subsystem150includes 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 subsystem150permits 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 module556of user interface150, via communications subsystem180, or via network126) or another suitable technology.

In some embodiments, the user input devices552include a microphone system, and the processing device557is 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 device557may 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.

FIG. 6shows an exemplary schematic of the user interface subsystem150, in accordance with some embodiments. In some embodiments, user interface subsystem150includes one or more processing devices600. The processing device(s)600may 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)600may communicate with other components of PCS100via network subsystem120. In some embodiments, processing device(s)600are powered by power distribution subsystem110.

In the example ofFIG. 6, user interface subsystem150includes a keypad601, headset jack602, speaker603, two microphones (604,605), and an E911 button606, all of which are coupled to the processing device(s)600. Processing device(s)600may be adapted to initiate an E911 communication when E911 button606is pressed, and to send and receive E911 messages via a wireless communication module607(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).

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.

In the example ofFIG. 6, user interface subsystem150includes a touchscreen612, display614, camera616, hearing loop coil618, hearing loop amplifier619, and USB charging port(s)620. In some embodiments, the touchscreen612, display614, camera616, and hearing loop coil618may be packaged together in a tablet computing device610. The USB charging port(s)620and hearing loop amplifier619may be powered by power distribution subsystem110.

Returning toFIG. 1, temperature control subsystem160controls the temperature within PCS100. For example, temperature control subsystem160may cool the components of PCS100. Some of the PCS's components generate heat and the PCS100may 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.

Alternatively or in addition, temperature control system160may, under appropriate conditions, heat the components of PCS100. 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.

Temperature control subsystem160may include one or more components suitable for heating and/or cooling the PCS. In some embodiments, temperature control subsystem160includes one or more fans operable to circulate ambient air through the PCS, which can cool the PCS. In some embodiments, the PCS100includes one or more heat sinks, and the ambient air circulated by temperature control subsystem160passes proximate to the heat sink(s). In some embodiments, temperature control subsystem160includes one or more fans operable to recirculate air in portions (e.g., airtight compartments) of PCS100, 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 subsystem160includes 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 subsystem160, but controlled by the temperature control subsystem.

Temperature control subsystem160may control the PCS's temperature by controlling the operation of the fan(s) and/or heater(s). In some embodiments, temperature control subsystem160controls the PCS's temperature based, at least in part, on the temperature inside or in an area proximate to the PCS. Temperature control subsystem160may obtain temperature information regarding the temperature in or near PCS100from 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 subsystem160may 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., network126).

In some embodiments, the temperature control system160adds 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.

In some embodiments, the temperature control subsystem160uses 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 subsystem160may increase the speeds of the fans as the internal temperature increases or decrease the speeds of the fans as the temperature decreases.

In some embodiments, the temperature control subsystem160uses the fan tachometer output to determine whether a fan fault has occurred. For example, the temperature control subsystem160may 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.

In some embodiments, temperature control subsystem160controls 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.

Based on the environmental information, temperature control subsystem160may control the fan(s) and/or heater(s) to adjust the PCS's temperature. In some embodiments, temperature control subsystem160may 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 subsystem160is 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 subsystem110to deactivate the PCS or at least one component thereof.

Display subsystem170includes 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 subsystem170includes two display modules disposed on opposite sides of the PCS, such that the modules' display devices face in opposite directions.

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 subsystem170may 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.

In some embodiments, display subsystem170includes one or more cameras. For example, each display module may include one or more cameras. Display subsystem170may 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 subsystem170may 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 subsystem170may 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.

Alternatively or in addition, display subsystem170may 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 subsystem170may 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 subsystem170may use facial-recognition techniques to determine a potential viewer's identity.

Display subsystem170may 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 subsystem170may 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.

Display subsystem170may 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 PCS100(e.g., via user interface subsystem150or 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.

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 PCS100may 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 PCS100.

FIG. 7is a schematic of a display module700, in accordance with some embodiments. In some embodiments, a PCS100includes two display modules700. In some embodiments, a display module700includes one or more processing device(s)710. Each processing device710may 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)710may communicate with other components of PCS100via network subsystem120. In some embodiments, each processing device710is powered by power distribution subsystem110. In the example ofFIG. 7, display module700also includes a display device720. Display device720may include a display panel721, ambient light sensor722, two cameras (723,724), temperature sensor725, frame rate controller726, power/backlight controller727, and one or more fans728.

In some embodiments, the processing device710is able to read the ambient light sensor722and send a control signal to the power/backlight controller727. One example of the control signal is a pulse width modulated (PWM) output. In response to the ambient light sensor722detecting 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.

Returning toFIG. 1, communications subsystem180includes 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.

In some embodiments, communications subsystem180includes 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 subsystem180may provide access to a local area network (LAN) or wide area network (WAN) (e.g., network126, 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.

Returning toFIG. 1, mounting subsystem190includes 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.

PCS100may include compartments and components of PCS100may be disposed in the compartments.FIG. 8illustrates an arrangement of compartments of a PCS100, according to some embodiments. For convenience, the PCS's top portion805and base portion806are identified inFIG. 8, as is the PCS's height807.

In the example ofFIG. 8, PCS100includes mounting compartment890, electronics compartment840, user interface compartment850, air intake compartment865, display compartment870, and communications compartment880. Electronics compartment840may enclose electronics subsystem140. User interface compartment850, display compartment870, and communications compartment880may enclose user interface subsystem150, display subsystem170, and communications subsystem180, respectively. In some embodiments, display compartment870may enclose, in addition to display subsystem870, one or more heat sinks Mounting compartment890may enclose at least a portion of a mounting subsystem190.

Air intake compartment865may enclose at least portions of temperature control subsystem160. In some embodiments, air intake compartment865may 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 compartment840. The fans may move the air through display compartment870(e.g., across one or more heat sinks), and the air may be discharged through an exhaust in communications compartment880. In some embodiments, air intake compartment865may enclose one or more heaters.

In the example ofFIG. 8, communications compartment880is located proximate to the top805of the PCS, display compartment870is disposed along an upper portion of the PCS and below communications compartment880, and an air intake compartment865is located proximate to a middle portion of the PCS (in the direction of the PCS's height) and below display compartment870. Mounting compartment890is located proximate a base806of the PCS, electronics compartment840is disposed along a lower portion of the PCS between mounting compartment890and air intake compartment865, and user interface compartment850is disposed along a lower portion of the PCS adjacent to air intake compartment865and electronics compartment840.

Embodiments of a PCS are not limited by the compartmentalization scheme illustrated inFIG. 8. A PCS may include none of the compartments illustrated inFIG. 8, any combination of the compartments illustrated inFIG. 8, and/or other compartments not illustrated inFIG. 8. In cases where a PCS includes a compartment illustrated inFIG. 8(e.g., mounting compartment890, electronics compartment840, user interface compartment850, air intake compartment865, display compartment870, or communications compartment880), the location and/or shape of that compartment may differ from the location and/or shape of the corresponding compartment inFIG. 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 ofFIG. 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 ofFIG. 8. In some embodiments, a PCS may include a compartment that encloses other compartments.

FIGS. 9A, 9B, and 9Cshow respective front perspective, side, and exploded front perspective views of a PCS100, in accordance with some embodiments. For convenience, the PCS's top portion805and base portion806are identified inFIGS. 9A-9B, as are the PCS's height807, width908, and length909.

As can be seen inFIG. 9C, PCS100may include a frame1000. The frame1000is (or is part of) a structural system that supports the components of PCS100. In some embodiments, the frame1000forms portions of the PCS's compartments (e.g., communications compartment880, display compartment870, air intake compartment865, user interface compartment850, electronics compartment840, and mounting compartment890).

As can further be seen inFIG. 9C, communications compartment880may include a radio access node981, a wireless access point983, and/or one or more antennas. The bottom of communications compartment880may be formed by a portion of frame1000, and the top and sides of communications compartment880may be formed by a removable cap985.

Display compartment870may include a heat sink903and a display module700. In some embodiments, display compartment870includes a second display module (and, optionally, a second heat sink) arranged back-to-back (e.g., in parallel) with display module700and heat sink903, such that display module700and the second display module face in opposite directions.

Air intake compartment865may include an air intake assembly967. The air intake assembly967may include a grill, a filter, and a fan assembly. User interface compartment850may include a user interface device951. The user interface device951may include a table computer, keypad, an emergency call button, microphone(s), speakers, and a mobile device charging port. Electronics compartment840may include an electronics cabinet941, and may be formed by portions of frame1000and a cover panel943. Mounting compartment890may at least partially enclose mounting subsystem190, and may be formed by portions of frame1000and a cover panel991.

FIGS. 10A-10Cshow the frame1000of a PCS100, according to some embodiments, and illustrate how the frame1000partially forms the PCS's compartments. In some embodiments, the frame1000is 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 compartment850and the opposing side1050of the PCS). This approach may simplify construction by reducing the number of brackets, mounting accessories, part count, etc.

In another embodiment, the frame1000is 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.

As can be seen inFIGS. 10A-10C, frame1000may include a bottom member1001a, a lower front member1001b, a cross-frame member1001c, an upper front member1001d, a rear member1001e, and a top member1001f. In the example ofFIGS. 10A-10C, lower portions of lower front member1001band rear member1001eare joined to opposite sides of bottom member1001a. One side of cross-frame member1001cis joined to an upper portion of lower front member1001band a lower portion of upper front member1001d. The opposite side of cross-frame member1001cis joined to rear member1001eproximate to a midpoint between the rear member's top and base ends. The upper portions of upper front member1001dand rear member1001eare joined to opposite sides of top member1001f.

In the example ofFIGS. 10A-10C, top member1001fand the upper portion of upper front member1001dform a bottom and a side of communications compartment880. Two sides of display compartment870are formed by upper front member1001dand rear member1001e, and the top and bottom of display compartment870are formed by top member1001fand cross-frame member1001c, respectively. Cross-frame member1001cforms the top, bottom, and two sides of air intake compartment865. User interface compartment850is formed in part by the bottom portion of upper front member1001d, the top portion of lower front member1001b, and a side of cross-frame member1001c. Two sides of electronics compartment840are formed by lower front member1001band the lower portion of rear member1001e, and the top and bottom of electronics compartment840are formed by cross-frame member1001cand bottom member1001a, respectively. Bottom member1001aforms mounting compartment890.

Embodiments of frame1000are not limited by the configuration shown inFIGS. 10A-10C. As can be seen inFIG. 11, which shows a front-perspective view of a portion of PCS100, some embodiments of frame1000further include one or more cross-frame members1001gcoupled to upper front member1001dand an upper portion of rear member1001eto form an I-beam. In some embodiments, cross-frame member(s)1001gmay include one or more ribbed heat sinks1161. A ribbed heat sink1161may include a substantially planar member1163and fins1162extending from the substantially planar member1163(e.g., in one or more directions substantially perpendicular to the surface of the substantially planar member).

Frame1000may facilitate cooling of the PCS's compartments. In some embodiments, one or more (e.g., all) members of frame1000may have relatively high thermal conductivity (e.g., average thermal conductivity of at least 90, 100, 110, or 120 Btu/(hr*° 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 frame1000with 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 frame1000may substantially consist of aluminum.

Referring toFIGS. 12A-12C, portions of a PCS's frame1000and/or compartments may be covered by ribbed panels1200. The ribbed panels1200may discourage vandalism of PCS100, 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 inFIG. 12B, such that a damaged or vandalized panel could be quickly replaced with a pristine panel.

Referring toFIG. 12C, a ribbed panel1200may include a substantially planar member1202and a set of ribs1204extending from the planar member. In some embodiments, the angle1206between the outer surface of a rib and the outer surface of the planar member is between approximately 95° and 115°. In some embodiments, the thickness1208of a rib1204at the rib's base may be between approximately 0.25″ and 0.5″ and the width1210of a rib1204may be between approximately 0.3″ and 0.6″. Other dimensions may be used.

Controlling Access to Components of a PCS

In some embodiments, one or more of the compartments of a personal communication structure (PCS)100may be secured. Securing a PCS's compartments may protect the PCS's components from vandalism, theft, and damage (e.g., from unwanted handling or exposure to the ambient environment), protect people from safety hazards (e.g., electrical hazards), and/or prevent unauthorized parties from accessing the PCS's components.

Nevertheless, from time to time it may be necessary or desirable for authorized parties to access the components enclosed in a PCS's compartments. For example, it may be desirable for an authorized party to access a PCS subsystem to perform maintenance, to perform tests, to repair or replace a component, to adjust a component's settings, etc. In some cases, it may be desirable for one party to have access to one set of PCS components and for another party to have access to another set of PCS components, without either party having access to both sets of components. More generally, it may be desirable for different parties to have access only to specified subsets of the PCS's components. For example, it may be desirable for an electricians' union to have access to the PCS's power distribution subsystem110, so that the union's electricians can maintain or repair the power distribution subsystem, but there may be no reason for the electricians to have access to any other PCS components. Likewise, it may be desirable for a telecommunications company's personnel to have access to the PCS's communications subsystem180, but there may be no reason for the company's personnel to have access to any other PCS components.

FIG. 13illustrates a system1300for controlling access to components of a PCS, according to some embodiments. Access-control system1300may independently secure at least a subset of the compartments of a PCS100(e.g., access-control system1300may apply different security measures to different compartments in the subset, which may include requiring users to provide different authentication tokens and/or information to access different compartments in the subset). The independently secured compartments may be independently accessible (e.g., the interior of any compartment in the subset may be accessed without accessing the interiors of other compartments in the subset). Providing independently secured and independently accessible compartments may facilitate the task of maintaining overall security, while granting different parties access to different sets of PCS components. Some techniques for securing and controlling access to the PCS's compartments are described in further detail below.

In some embodiments, access-control system1300includes one or more compartment locks (e.g., locks1302a-f) and one or more compartment access members (e.g., access members1304a-f) associated with one or more respective compartments (e.g., electronics compartment840, air intake compartment865, display compartment870, communications compartment880, mounting compartment890, and user interface compartment850). When a compartment lock1302is engaged, the lock fastens or otherwise secures the corresponding access member1304in a closed position, such that the interior of the corresponding compartment is inaccessible. When a compartment lock1302is disengaged, the corresponding access member1304is movable between the closed position and an open position, such that the corresponding compartment is accessible.

The compartment locks1302may include, without limitation, mechanical locks, electronic locks, electromechanical locks, etc. Non-limiting examples of mechanical locks include warded locks, tumbler locks (e.g., pin tumbler locks, wafer tumbler locks, disc tumbler locks, lever tumbler locks), combination locks, security fasteners (e.g., “security” or “tamper-proof” screws, bolts, anchors, nuts), etc. A security fastener may have an atypical shape and/or atypical dimensions relative to commercially available fasteners of the same type. For example, as can be seen inFIG. 14, a security fastener1400may be a machine screw1402with an atypical screw drive1404or head configuration. A security fastener can generally be unlocked or unfastened using a specialized tool that conforms to or otherwise accommodates the fastener's atypical shape and/or dimensions. Other mechanical locks can generally be opened with physical keys or a combination code.

Non-limiting examples of electronic or electromechanical locks include keycard locks, RFID locks, smart locks, cyber locks, etc. A keycard lock can generally be unlocked by presenting a suitable security token (e.g., a keycard with appropriate key data) to a keycard reader. Likewise, an RFID lock can generally be unlocked by presenting a suitable security token (e.g., an RFID tag with appropriate key data) to an RFID reader. A smart lock can generally be unlocked by presenting suitable authentication data to an access controller1310, which confirms the validity of the authentication data and disengages the lock. Non-limiting examples of authentication data include biometric data (e.g., fingerprint data, retinal scan data, voice print data or other speech-based data, etc.), security credentials (e.g., username, password, personal identification number (PIN), etc.) cryptographic data, etc.

A cyber lock generally includes an electronic cylinder that can be unlocked by inserting a suitable cyber key. A cyber key is generally an electronic key that can communicate with a cyber lock to engage and disengage the cyber lock's cylinder. In some cases, a cyber key may provide power to the cyber lock. In some cases, a cyber key may contain internal memory that stores security information, which may include but is not limited to: one or more encrypted access codes, information identifying one or more PCS structures the key can access, dates and times when the key is authorized to access a particular PCS or set of PCSs, and/or date/time ranges when the key is authorized to access a particular PCS or set of PCSs. In some cases, a cyber key may be capable of disabling access to the security information and/or deleting the security information in response to input signals (e.g., input signals received wirelessly from a remote service center, indicating that the key has been lost or stolen). A cyber key's security information (e.g., schedules, credentials, authorizations, permissions, etc.) generally may be updated using wireless communications (e.g., Bluetooth and/or Wi-Fi) when connected to an authorized network. In some embodiments, a cyber key associated with a PCS100may connect to an authorized network through the PCS100(e.g., via the communications subsystem180). Some of the above examples of cyber keys may contain an internal rechargeable battery that powers the cyber lock when the key is inserted into the lock. In some cases, a cyber key may communicate with a cyber lock (e.g., when the key is inserted into the lock). Such communication may occur wirelessly or via a wired connection (e.g., a USB interface).

Some examples of commercially available electronic or electromechanical locks include electromagnetic locks, electric latch releases, electronically-actuated deadbolts, motorized locks and solenoid locks.

In some embodiments, an electronic or electromechanical lock includes a locking mechanism and an actuator. Non-limiting examples of locking mechanisms include deadbolts, latches, electromagnets, etc. Non-limiting examples of actuators include solenoid drivers, rotary actuators, linear actuators (e.g., a linear actuator that moves a deadbolt or unlatches a latch), electromagnets, cams, levers, etc.

Returning toFIG. 13, access-control system1300may include an access controller1310and a security interface1320. In some embodiments, access controller1310controls one or more actuators for one or more compartments, and uses the appropriate actuator to disengage a corresponding lock1302and/or open a corresponding access member1304upon provision of suitable authentication data. For example, when a user provides the appropriate authentication data for display compartment870, access controller1310may drive an actuator to disengage lock1302c, and (optionally) open compartment870by driving an actuator to move access member1304c. In some embodiments, the authentication data is provided to access controller1310by security interface1320(e.g., via network subsystem120). In some embodiments, authentication data is provided to access controller1310over a communication network (e.g., via network subsystem120and/or communication subsystem180).

In some embodiments, access controller1310includes one or more processing devices1510and one or more actuator drivers1520, as shown inFIG. 15. The processing device(s)1510and actuator driver(s)1520may be powered by power distribution subsystem110. Processing device(s)1510may 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.

Actuator driver(s)1520may include hardware (e.g., I/O ports) and/or software (e.g., driver software) controlled by processing device(s)1510and adapted to communicate with actuators (e.g., the actuators of locks1302and/or access members1304). In some embodiments, access controller1310engages a lock1302and/or disengages a lock1302by sending suitable control signals to the lock's actuator via an actuator driver1520. In some embodiments, access controller1310opens an access member1304and/or closes an access member1304by sending suitable control signals to the access member's actuator via an actuator driver1520. In some embodiments, access controller1310determines whether a lock1302is engaged or disengaged, or determines whether an access member1304is open or closed, by sending a suitable query to the corresponding actuator, which may reply to the query by sending data to processing device(s)1510indicating the actuator's state. In some embodiments, when access controller1310detects closure of a compartment's access member1304, access controller1310may engage the compartment's lock1302.

An embodiment has been described in which access controller1310includes one or more processing device(s)1510. In some embodiments, access controller1310is implemented on one or more processing devices of a subsystem of PCS100. Access controller1310may, for example, be implemented on the maintenance subsystem's processing device(s)600, which may be equipped with suitable actuator driver(s)1520.

A user may provide authentication data to access controller1310via security interface1320. Security interface1320may include a keycard reader, RFID reader, keyboard, keypad, touchscreen, fingerprint scanner, retinal scanner, camera, microphone, data access port, and/or other suitable data input device. The keycard reader and RFID reader can be used to read authentication data from a keycard and an RFID tag, respectively. The keyboard, keypad, or touchscreen can be used to enter security credentials. The fingerprint scanner, retinal scanner, camera, or microphone may be used to enter biometric data. The data access port may be used to upload authentication data, including but not limited to cryptographic keys. In the example ofFIG. 15, security interface1320is configured to send the user-provided authentication data to access controller1310via network subsystem120. In some embodiments, security interface1320includes a processing device adapted to encrypt the user-provided authentication data before sending the data to access controller1310. In some embodiments, security interface1320sends the authentication data to access controller1310via a dedicated link that is not part of network subsystem120. Alternatively or in addition, a user may provide authentication data to access controller1310over a communication network (e.g., network126, or a network coupled to communication subsystem180).

Access controller1310may analyze the user-provided authentication data to determine whether it is valid. In some embodiments, the user specifies which compartment(s) the user is attempting to access and access controller1310analyzes the authentication data to determine whether it is valid for the specified compartment(s). In some embodiments, the user provides authentication data without specifying which compartment(s) the user is attempting to access and access controller1310analyzes the authentication data to determine whether it is valid for any compartment. To determine whether the authentication data is valid, access controller1310may perform one or more suitable authentication procedures (e.g., fingerprint matching, voiceprint matching, retinal scan matching, username matching, password matching, PIN matching, one-factor authentication, two-factor authentication, multi-factor authentication, etc.).

In some embodiments, permission to access a compartment of the PCS100may be remotely granted, denied, or revoked (e.g., by a remote service center), and the grant, denial, or revocation of permission to access the compartment may be communicated to the access controller1310over a communication network (e.g., network126, a network coupled to communication subsystem180, etc.). In some embodiments, the access controller may acknowledge the grant, denial, or revocation of permission over the communication network.

The entity that grants, denies, or revokes permission to access a compartment of the PCS100may determine whether to grant, deny, or revoke permission based on any suitable information. In some embodiments, the entity grants permission to access a compartment during predetermined time periods. For example, the entity may grant permission to access a compartment during time periods specified by repair or maintenance schedules for components located in the compartment. As another example, the entity may deny access to the display compartment870for display subsystem170maintenance except during periods generally characterized by low pedestrian foot traffic, such as early morning hours. It can be appreciated that during periods of high pedestrian foot traffic, it is desirable for the display subsystem170to be showing advertisements. In some embodiments, the maintenance subsystem130may communicate with the entity (e.g., a remote service center). For example, the maintenance subsystem130may indicate to the entity whether (or when) maintenance or repair of a PCS component or subsystem is recommended or permitted. In some embodiments, the entity grants permission to access a compartment based on communication from the maintenance subsystem indicating that repair or maintenance of a component or subsystem in the compartment is recommended or permitted. For example, the maintenance subsystem130may indicate that repair or replacement of a PCS component in a compartment is recommended in response to administering a diagnostic test (e.g., a self-test) and detecting a fault. In some embodiments, the PCS100may send user-provided authentication data to the entity, which may determine whether the authentication data is valid for one or more compartments and grant permission to access the compartment(s) if the authentication data is determined to be valid.

In some embodiments, the PCS100may implement two-factor access control based on (1) user-provided authentication data and/or items (e.g., security tokens, keys, etc.) and (2) a grant, denial, or revocation of permission to access a compartment. When two-factor access control is used, the grant, denial, or revocation of permission to access a compartment may function as a grant, denial, or revocation of permission to allow authorized access to the compartment. When authorized access to a compartment is permitted, the access controller1310may allow users who provide valid authentication data/item(s) for the compartment to access the interior of the compartment. When authorized access to a compartment is not permitted, the access controller1310may not allow a user to access the interior of the compartment, even if the user provides valid authentication data/item(s) for the compartment. In other words, the PCS100may permit a user to access a PCS compartment if the user provides suitable authentication data/item(s) and a remote entity grants permission to access the compartment, but not if the authentication data/item(s) are unsuitable nor if the remote entity denies or revokes permission. For example, if a user provides compromised authentication data/item(s) (e.g., stolen authentication data or a lost/stolen key), the remote entity may determine that the authentication data/item(s) are compromised, deny permission to access the compartment, and instruct the access controller1310to revoke the user's privileges to access one or more compartments by disabling authentication data/item(s) assigned to or in the possession of the user.

In embodiments of the PCS100that implement two-factor access control, steps of the access control process may be performed in parallel and/or in any suitable sequence. In some embodiments, access controller1310may send a message to a remote entity (e.g., service center) requesting permission to allow authorized access to a compartment, and the remote entity may then reply with a grant or denial of permission to allow authorized access to the compartment. The access controller1310may send such a request before a user provides authentication data/item(s) for the compartment, after the user provides the authentication data/item(s) but before the authentication data/item(s) are validated, or after the user-provided authentication data/item(s) are validated. In some embodiments, a request to access a compartment is sent to the remote entity before a user attempts to gain access to the compartment (e.g., by providing authentication data/item(s)). After permission to allow authorized access to the compartment has been received by the PCS100(and before such permission has been revoked), a user may gain access to the compartment by providing suitable authentication data/item(s).

In some embodiments, the access controller1310provides an indication that permission to access a compartment (or permission to allow authorized access to a compartment) has been granted. For example, when access permission has been granted (and not revoked), the access controller1310may illuminate a light-emitting diode (e.g., a green LED) to indicate that access (e.g., authorized access) to the compartment is permitted. The indicator may be disposed in any suitable location, including, but not limited to, on the corresponding compartment or on an electronic key provided by the user. In some embodiments, the access controller1310may activate an indicator on a key wirelessly (e.g., over a wireless network) or via a wired connection (e.g., when the key is inserted into an interface connector or lock).

In some embodiments, the PCS100may implement single-factor access control based on user-provided authentication data/item(s) or on a grant, denial, or revocation of permission to access a compartment. For example, the access controller1310may open or unlock a compartment in response to receiving a grant of permission to access the compartment, without requiring the user to provide authentication data/item(s). In some embodiments, a user may transmit a code to a remote entity (e.g., by emailing the code to an email address associated with the entity, by sending a text message to a phone number associated with the entity, etc.), and, after validating the code, the entity may grant permission to access the compartment. In some embodiments, the user may transmit the code via a mobile device that wirelessly connects to a network through the PCS100(e.g., through an access node of the PCS100). In some embodiments, the entity identifies a compartment of the PCS100and determines whether to grant permission to access the compartment based on the transmitted code, the email address/phone number to which the code was transmitted, and/or the email address/phone number from which the code was sent. In some embodiments, the entity may use an automated process to grant permission to access a compartment.

Access controller1310may detect and respond to attempts to gain unauthorized access to compartment(s) of PCS100. In some embodiments, access controller1310determines that a user is attempting to gain unauthorized access to a PCS compartment if invalid authentication data is provided in more than N consecutive authentication attempts, where N is a predetermined number. In some embodiments, access controller1310determines that a user is attempting to gain unauthorized access to a PCS compartment (or has gained unauthorized access) if access controller1310detects disengagement of the compartment's lock or opening of the compartment's access member without a corresponding entry of the compartment's authentication data.

When unauthorized access (or an attempt to gain unauthorized access) to a PCS compartment is detected, access controller1310may take remedial action. In some embodiments, access controller1310collects evidence of the unauthorized access (or attempt) by activating a camera to acquire one or more images (e.g., still images or video) of a region proximate to the PCS. The acquired images may include images of the user who has accessed (or attempted to access) the PCS. In some embodiments, access controller1310sounds an alarm, displays a message via display subsystem170, initiates communication with a security provider, and/or performs other suitable actions to draw attention and/or alert interested parties to the unauthorized access. In some embodiments, when unauthorized access to one or more compartments is detected, the access controller silently alerts a remote security center (e.g., alerts the remote security center without alerting the user), which in turn takes action based on the unauthorized access. Depending on which compartment is accessed, the security center may, for example, deploy security personnel or alert the local police.

FIG. 16shows a perspective view of electronics compartment840, according to some embodiments. In some embodiments, cover panel943functions as access member1304afor electronics compartment840. In some embodiments, the lock1302afor electronics compartment840includes a set of latches1604and a corresponding set of latch receptacles1606. When the lock is engaged, the interlocking of the latches1604and the latch receptacles1606holds the access member securely in the closed position. The lock may be disengaged by access controller1310, which may drive one or more actuators coupled to the latch receptacles1606to release the latches1604or vice versa, thereby allowing the access member to be moved from the closed position (e.g., a position in which the interior of the compartment is inaccessible, such as the position of cover panel943inFIG. 9A) to the open position (e.g., a position in which the interior of the compartment is accessible, such as the position of cover panel943inFIG. 16). The cover panel943may be hinged and/or removable.

As can be seen inFIG. 16, electronics compartment840may enclose an electronics cabinet941.FIGS. 17A and 17Bshow front perspective and rear perspective views of the electronics cabinet941, according to some embodiments. Electronics cabinet941may include three sub-compartments1710,1720, and1730. Sub-compartments1710,1720, and1730(or a subset thereof) may be independently secured and independently accessible. In some embodiments, sub-compartments1710,1720, and1730enclose, respectively, power distribution subsystem110, network subsystem120, and maintenance subsystem130. In some embodiments, the power distribution subsystem110and the network subsystem120may be located on the same side of the electronics cabinet941(e.g., with the power distribution subsystem110located between the base of the PCS100and the network subsystem120), and the maintenance subsystem130may be located on the opposite side of the electronics cabinet941. In some embodiments, sub-compartment1720encloses network subsystem120, and sub-compartments1710and1730collectively enclose power distribution subsystem110and maintenance subsystem130(e.g., portions of the power distribution subsystem110and/or portions of the maintenance subsystem130may be located in both the sub-compartment1710and the sub-compartment1730).

In some embodiments, electronics compartment840may not enclose an electronics cabinet941. Electronics compartment840may enclose electronics subsystem140without partitioning subsystems110,120, and130into sub-compartments.

An embodiment has been described in which an electronics compartment840encloses three sub-compartments1710,1720, and1730, which in turn enclose power distribution subsystem110, network subsystem120, and maintenance subsystem130. In some embodiments, PCS100may not include an electronics compartment840enclosing multiple compartments. Instead, PCS100may include three compartments which respectively enclose subsystems110,120and130.

FIGS. 18A and 18Bshow front perspective and exploded front perspective views, respectively, of an air intake assembly967, according to some embodiments. Air intake assembly967may be enclosed in air intake compartment865and may implement a portion of temperature control subsystem160. In some embodiments, air intake assembly967includes a grill1802, a filter1806, and a fan assembly1804. The grill1802may function as access member1304b, and may be secured to the PCS by security fasteners1808, which may function as lock1302b. Thus, lock1302bmay be engaged by using security fasteners1808to fasten grill1802to the PCS. According to some embodiments, the closed and open positions of access member1304b(e.g., grill1802of air intake assembly967) are illustrated inFIG. 9AandFIG. 18A, respectively. In some embodiments, air intake compartment865may enclose two air intake assemblies967disposed proximate to each other, on opposite sides of PCS100.

FIGS. 19A and 19Bshow front perspective and rear perspective views, respectively, of a user interface device951, according to some embodiments. User interface device951may be partially enclosed in user interface compartment850and may implement a user interface subsystem150. In some embodiments, user interface device951includes a user interface panel1902and a tablet computer1900fastened to the user interface panel1902by security fasteners1904. In some embodiments, the security fasteners are accessible via the interior of air intake compartment865, but not accessible from the exterior of the PCS100. Thus, in some embodiments, the lock1302fand access member1304ffor user interface compartment850may include, respectively, the lock1302band the access member1304bfor air intake compartment865.

FIG. 20shows a perspective view of a display compartment870, according to some embodiments. In some embodiments, display compartment870includes a display module700and a heat sink903. In some embodiments, display compartment870includes a second display module (and, optionally, a second heat sink) arranged back-to-back with display module700and heat sink903, such that display module700and the second display module face outwardly in opposite directions.

FIG. 21shows an exploded perspective view of a display module700, according to some embodiments. In some embodiments, display module700includes a housing and a display panel2104. The housing may include a housing frame2102, a covering frame2106, and a transparent covering2108. Display module700may be assembled by positioning display panel2104in cavity2110, fastening the display panel to housing frame2102, and using covering frame2106to secure transparent covering2108over display panel2104. Transparent covering2108may include toughened glass (e.g., “Gorilla Glass”® manufactured by Corning, Inc.). In some embodiments, the assembled display module700functions as the access member1304cfor display compartment870.FIG. 9Ashows access member1304c(display module700) in the closed position, andFIG. 20shows the access member in the open or service position.

FIG. 22shows a cut-away perspective view of compartment lock1302cof display compartment870, according to some embodiments. In some embodiments, compartment lock1302cincludes a connector2202(e.g., a pin) coupled to the housing of display module700, and a mating interlocking connector2204(e.g., an L-shaped receptacle) formed in a retention member2208of PCS100.FIG. 22also shows an actuator2206. In some embodiments, actuator2206is operable to disengage lock1302cby moving retention member2208such that connector2202is released from mating interlocking connector2204(e.g., moving retention member2208toward the PCS's base). The operation of compartment lock1302cand actuator2206are described in more detail below, with reference toFIGS. 23A and 23B.

FIG. 23Ashows a cross-sectional view of compartment lock1302cof display compartment870with the lock engaged and the access member (display module700) in the closed position, according to some embodiments. In some embodiments, lock1302cis engaged by positioning connector2202within mating interlocking connector2204, such that mating interlocking connector2204prevents connector2202from moving laterally. As can be seen, when lock1302cis engaged, display module700is held in the closed position. In some embodiments, actuator2206is operable to disengage lock1302cby retracting a pin2302into an aperture of a spool2306, thereby moving mating interlocking connector2204downward such that connector2202can move laterally toward the exterior of the PCS100. In some embodiments, actuator2206includes a bias member2304(e.g., a spring) that biases lock1302ctoward the engaged position. Actuator2206may be controlled by access controller1310.

FIG. 23Bshows a cross-sectional view of compartment lock1302cof display compartment870with the lock disengaged and the access member (display module700) in the open position, according to some embodiments. In the example ofFIG. 23B, pin2302has been retracted, thereby causing retention member2208and mating interlocking connector2204to move downward, thereby releasing connector2202to move laterally toward the exterior of PCS100.

An embodiment has been described in which compartment lock1302cof display compartment870includes a connector2202and a mating interlocking connector2204. In some embodiments, a compartment lock1302cmay include multiple pairs of connectors and mating interlocking connectors. The connectors may be arranged around a periphery of display module700, and the mating interlocking connectors may be arranged around a periphery of display compartment870. For example, retention member2208may include one or more mating interlocking connectors, and a second retention member disposed on the opposite side of display module700may also include one or more mating interlocking connectors. In some embodiments, the connectors2202may be disposed on the retention members2208, and the mating interlocking connectors2204may be disposed on the display module700.

As described above, PCS100may include two display modules700facing in opposite directions. In such embodiments, either one or both display modules may be equipped with compartment locks1302cand actuators2206that operate independently or in unison.

FIG. 24shows a perspective view of a communications compartment880, according to some embodiments. In some embodiments, communications compartment880includes a removable cap985, which may function as access member1304d, and may be secured to the PCS by inserting security fasteners through apertures2404and2406. The security fasteners may function as compartment lock1302d. According to some embodiments, the closed and open positions of access member1304d(e.g., cap985) are illustrated inFIG. 9AandFIG. 24, respectively.

Perspective views of mounting compartment890are shown inFIGS. 9A, 9C, and 25, according to some embodiments. Mounting compartment890may include a cover panel991. In some embodiments, cover panel991functions as access member1304efor mounting compartment890. In some embodiments, the lock1302efor mounting compartment890includes a set of latches disposed proximate the periphery of cover panel991and a corresponding set of latch receptacles disposed proximate the periphery of mounting compartment890or vice versa. When the lock is engaged, the interlocking of the latches and the latch receptacles may hold the access member securely in the closed position. The lock may be disengaged by access controller1310, which may drive one or more actuators coupled to the latch receptacles to release the latches, thereby allowing the access member to be moved from the closed position (e.g., a position in which the interior of the compartment is inaccessible, such as the position of cover panel991inFIG. 9A) to the open position (e.g., a position in which the interior of the compartment is accessible, such as the position of cover panel991inFIG. 9C).

In some embodiments, the mounting compartment890contains a mains power connection and one or more network connections. The network connection(s) may be, for example, fiber optic and/or copper network connections, depending, for example, on where the PCS is located and what type of network service is available. In some locations, PCS100may receive input data through one or more fiber network connections, provide output data through one or more copper network connections, or vice versa.

In some embodiments, the mounting compartment890may contain one or more junction boxes2500for connecting power and/or network connections. In some embodiments, the junction boxes2500are attached to the mounting compartment890before the PCS100is installed, which may facilitate securing of the power and network cabling2502(e.g., fastening of the cabling to the PCS). In some embodiments, the junction boxes are attached to the PCS100before it is installed on mounting subsystem190. In some embodiments, a portion2504of the mounting subsystem190forms a bottom surface of the mounting compartment890. In some embodiments, portions of the power and/or network cabling are located in the mounting subsystem190before the PCS100is mounted, and the cabling is connected to the PCS's mains power connection and network connection(s) after the PCS100is mounted.

In some embodiments, one or more compartments of PCS100are hierarchically secured, such that access to one or more compartments is a precondition for accessing another compartment. For example, security interface1320may be disposed within a compartment C (e.g., air intake compartment865or communication compartment880), such that a user can access the security interface1320only after accessing the compartment C. The user can then provide authentication data to access controller1310via security interface1320, and thereby gain access to other compartments (e.g., display compartment870, electronics compartment840, or mounting compartment890). In some embodiments, the security interface1320may include a key reader disposed on an exterior surface of the PCS100or proximate to the PCS100.

Further Description of Some Embodiments

Embodiments have been described in which an access controller performs an authentication process and controls engagement/disengagement of compartment locks and/or opening/closing of compartment access members. The various authentication and control methods or processes outlined herein can be coded as software that is executable on one or more processors 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.

In this respect, the authentication and/or 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

EQUIVALENTS