Ground level primary electric distribution system

A ground level primary electrical distribution system deploys terrain mounted or essentially terrain flush pipes that protect suppress ignition from fires that may occur if components fail within the pipes. The pipes can be deployed in remote and rugged terrain where overhead power lines poses fire risks from wind damage and it is impractical and disruptive to bury the electricity conducting cable or deployed along roadways or field at ground level or essentially flush with the ground to avoid excavation yet avoid the use of overhead power lines that can be subject to damage from high wind. The pipes can follow the terrain between junctions over rigid segments formed by a plurality of end-to-end coupled enclosures, while the conductors are protected within jacketing or flow through flexible insulating and isolating conduits within the more rigid pipes.

BACKGROUND OF INVENTION

The field of inventions is electric utility distribution systems.

The traditional primary distribution system design and construction continues to present risk, execution, construction, and financial challenges in meeting the hazards and as well as operational implications as it relates to climate change (Extremes or unprecedented wind levels, drought, increased tree mortality rate, and temperature rise, etc.)

Rebuilding the electric system to achieve to support arc free fire prevention is especially challenging in rural, unpopulated, or inaccessible areas with difficult terrain. A clear example is the most recent events of wildfires in California since 2017, where public safety and massive fire has been the result of unprecedented high wind levels causing vegetation contact with open conducers, branches or dead trees falling into energized overhead lines, Equipment or components failures resulting in electrical arcing and fire ignition.

Although the Californian utilities have deployed many strategies both from an operational perspective by shutting lines down during high fire index days and rebuilding the overhead systems with cover conductors and larger structures, there is no viable cost-effective solution to meet the needs of their customers to ensure reliable and safe power supply.

Accordingly, it is a first object of the invention to provide a viable and cost-effective solution to eliminate or minimize the risk fire ignition associated with primary electric grid due to external implication of climate change.

Another object of the invention is to provide such a solution in difficult terrain such as mountains areas, granite, rock, and hard grounds does not lend itself to the traditional undergrounding of electric facilitates or become prohibitive due to construction or field execution challenges.

The above and other objects, effects, features, and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent from the following description of the embodiments thereof taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

In the present innovation, a first object is achieved by providing a ground level primary electric distribution system (GLDS) that comprise, a plurality of pipes, in which two or more pipes of said plurality being connected at a junction, conductor cables extending through the two or more pipes, a means for mounting at least one of the pipes of said plurality substantially in proximal contact with terrain, wherein the plurality of pipes are configured to contain internal thermal ignition and preclude external damage to the integrity of the plurality of pipes and the conductor cables extending therethrough.

A second object of the invention is achieved by providing such a ground-level primary electric distribution system in which one or more pipes of the plurality has a fire-resistant concrete surrounding the conductor cables to contain internal thermal ignition and preclude external damage.

Another object of the invention is achieved by providing any such ground-level primary electric distribution system in which one or more pipes of the plurality form an acute angle less than 60 degrees with respect to the terrain in a direction transverse to a principal axis of the pipe.

Another object of the invention is achieved by providing any such ground-level primary electric distribution system in which one or more pipes of the plurality are disposed in proximal contact with the terrain by a plurality of enclosures, each having a bottom, opposing sidewalls that extend upward from opposing sides of the bottom that are aligned with a local principal axis of the pipe, in which the enclosures are connected at opposing ends that are generally orthogonal to the sidewalls, and a lid is disposed on the enclosure to covers an upper opening between the opposing sidewalls.

Another object of the invention is achieved by providing any such ground-level primary electric distribution system in which the conductor cables extend in a convoluted path within the junction.

Another object of the invention is achieved by providing any such ground-level primary electric distribution system in which the conductor cables are energized to at least 4,000 V.

Another object of the invention is achieved by providing any such ground-level primary electric distribution system in which connections between adjacent enclosures and the lids disposed thereon are covered by a plurality of coupling bars.

Another object of the invention is achieved by providing any such ground-level primary electric distribution system in which the conductor cables are insulated with a flexible dielectric material and the pipes are more rigid than the flexible dielectric material.

Another object of the invention is achieved by providing any such ground-level primary electric distribution system in which one of the lid and enclosures have outward extending side flanges disposed in proximal contact with the terrain for coupling thereto and one of the lid and the enclosure are form an acute angle less than 60 degrees with respect to the terrain.

Another object of the invention is achieved by providing any such ground-level primary electric distribution system in which in which one or more pipes of the plurality has a fire-resistant concrete surrounding the conductor cables to contain internal thermal ignition and preclude external damage.

Another object of the invention is achieved by providing any such ground-level primary electric distribution system in which downward extending portions of the lid covers the exterior of the sidewalls.

Another object of the invention is achieved by providing any such ground-level primary electric distribution system in which the downward extending portions of the lid that covers the exterior of the sidewalls have outward extending lateral flanges.

Another object of the invention is achieved by providing any such ground-level primary electric distribution system in which the side flanges have through holes for receiving anchors to couple the pipes in proximal contact with the terrain.

Another object of the invention is achieved by providing any such ground-level primary electric distribution system in which the junction is a walk-in height reinforced enclosure.

Another object of the invention is achieved by providing any such ground-level primary electric distribution system in which a portion of the lid has downward extending portion that covers the exterior of the sidewalls which then terminated in outward extending side flanges having a plurality of holes which extend over the outward extending side flanges of the enclosure that are disposed in proximal contact with the terrain for coupling thereto.

Another object of the invention is achieved by providing any such ground-level primary electric distribution system in which the side flanges of the lid extend over the side flanges of the enclosure are configured to vertically align the holes in the lid side flanges over at least some of the holes in the enclosure side flanges for receiving anchors that extend through the vertically aligned holes to couple at least one pipe to the terrain.

Another object of the invention is achieved by providing any such ground-level primary electric distribution system in which connections between adjacent enclosure and the lids disposed on the enclosed are covered by a plurality of coupling bars that engage at least one of the side flanges of the lid and the side flanges of the enclosure by flexing snap in place over the side flanges of at least one of the lid and the enclosure.

Another object of the invention is achieved by providing any such ground-level primary electric distribution system in which at least one or more of the enclosures of the plurality is connected to an adjacent enclosure by a hollow coupling segment with an interior cavity surrounded by a convoluted flexible wall.

Another object of the invention is achieved by providing any such ground-level primary electric distribution system in which one or more of the enclosures of the plurality has a central or medial portion with an interior cavity surrounded by a convoluted flexible wall.

Another object of the invention is achieved by providing any such ground-level primary electric distribution system in which one or more of the enclosures of the plurality is curved to change a local principal axis of a portion of at least one pipe.

Another object of the invention is achieved by providing a container system for forming channels that receive conductor cable for one of an essentially flush and ground level electrical distribution system, the container system comprising an enclosure having a tray one or more cable support members laterally spaced apart between opposing sidewalls that extend generally upward from a bottom of the tray to terminate at a rim, a lid configured to close a vertical opening in the tray when set to extend across the rim.

Another object of the invention is achieved by providing such a container system for forming channels that receive conductor cable for one of an essentially flush and ground level electrical distribution system in which the cable support members are one of formed integrally within the bottom of the tray and spaced apart and extending at least partially over a portion of the bottom of the tray.

Another object of the invention is achieved by providing any such container system for forming channels that receive conductor cable for one of an essentially flush and ground level electrical distribution system in which the cable support members have a plurality of holes to the allow a liquid used to the fill a cavity between the tray and the lid to flow under the tray and cable support members.

Another object of the invention is achieved by providing any such container system for forming channels that receive conductor cable for one of an essentially flush and ground level electrical distribution system in which the tray has one or more of outward extending flanges and the lid has downward extending side walls.

Another object of the invention is achieved by providing any such container system for forming channels that receive conductor cable for one of an essentially flush and ground level electrical distribution system wherein a lower portion of the lid penetrate below the rim.

Another object of the invention is achieved by providing any such container system for forming channels that receive conductor cable for one of an essentially flush and ground level electrical distribution system in which the tray has a central or medial portion with an interior cavity surrounded by a convoluted flexible wall.

Another object of the invention is achieved by providing a method of forming a ground level distribution system, the method comprising the steps of providing a plurality of bases having sidewalls on opposing sides of the base that extend in a generally upright direction to a rim and a lid configured to be supported on the rim of each base to close a vertical opening of the base, in which the container with the lid installed on the rim has a first height from an exterior bottom of the base to the exterior top of the lid, forming a shallow elongated trench to a depth at least a deep as first height and a length sufficient to receive the plurality of bases when configured with ends that are generally orthogonal to the sidewall disposed adjacent a nearest neighbor base in the plurality, inserting the bases in the shallow trench with the bottom of each base vertical and the sidewalls thereof generally horizontal in which ends of each base other than a first and a last base are adjacent the ends that are generally orthogonal to the sidewall disposed adjacent a nearest neighbor base in the plurality, installing one of at least one conduit and a plurality of conductors in channel supports that are one of formed in the base and inserted into the base, filling an enclosed channel formed by the plurality of bases in the trench with concrete to surround and encase the installed conduit or conductors, setting the lid on the rim of each base, when the top of the lids are below a grade of the adjacent soil covering the lid with granular matter provides a flush grade over the trench, when the exterior of the sidewalls of the bases are not adjacent sidewall of the trench then filling a gap between sidewalls of the trench and exterior of the sidewalls of the bases with a granular material.

Another object of the invention is achieved by providing such a method of forming a ground level distribution system in which the step of setting the lid on the rim of each base occurs after the concrete has filled the enclosed channel but before the concrete has set so at least portion of the lid are adhere to the concrete.

Another object of the invention is achieved by providing any such method of forming a ground level distribution system in which the step of setting the lid on the rim of at least some of the bases occurs before occurs before the step of filling the enclosed channel with concrete.

Another object of the invention is achieved by providing any such method of forming a ground level distribution system in which concrete is one of pumped into the covered channel and poured into the covered channel via holes in the lids

Another object of the invention is achieved by providing any such method of forming a ground level distribution system in which the bases are provided and inserted in the shallow trench by extrude a continuous base of concrete.

The above and other objects, effects, features, and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent from the following description of the embodiments thereof taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Referring toFIGS.1A through37C, wherein like reference numerals refer to like components in the various views, there is illustrated therein a new and improved Ground-Level Primary Electric Distribution System, generally denominated100herein.

FIG.1Ais a side elevation view of the common and prior art aerial mounted primary electric distribution System in which conductor cable101are suspended from spaced apart poles11.

In accordance with the present invention the ground level primary electric distribution system (GLDS)100comprises a plurality of pipes110with two more pipes110of said plurality being connected together in at least one junction120. Conductor cables101then extend through the two or more pipes110. Various means130are deployed for anchoring or mounting the plurality of pipes110as well as components thereof, in substantially proximal contact with terrain, wherein the plurality of pipes110are configured to contain internal thermal ignition and preclude external damage to the integrity of the plurality of pipes110and the high-voltage conductor cables101extending therethrough, such as from fire and other natural disasters, including but not limited floods, windstorms, tornados and the like.

This GLDS100may deploy a hybrid approach in combining existing components from various utilities/industries (e.g., electric, gas, petroleum, etc.) and new asset components (fire resilient U-Guard, Conduit, Pad-mount Skirt and the like) to construct a primary electric distribution system to reduce or eliminate the risk of electric ignition due to external factors, as well as vegetation management requirements for an overhead distribution system. Various embodiments of the system and system components are believed capable of providing the safest methods of providing electric service in the applicable areas, prevents electric utilities from initiating planed service shut offs due to high fire index or winds, and minimizes the wildfire risk.

Fire resilient components (such as U-guard brand pole protectors and Pads) may form part of an integrated system to house the primary conductors101on or over pipe110or junctions120.

In some embodiments GLDS100has multi-layer protection of the pipes to ensure public and system safety, such as fully insulated cable, schedule40PVC conduct, and an outer layer of fire resilient U-guards (rigid) or steel conduit (grounded with cathodic protection).

The term pipe(s)110is intended to embrace an elongated passage for eventually covering, protecting and isolating a plurality of parallel conductors, all of which extend generally in parallel to the principal or longest axis of the pipe110. The term cable101is intended to embrace insulated elongated electrical conductors, which is conductive wires and assemblies of wires, empty conduit that can receive insulated or uninsulated elongated electrical conductors as well as a conduit with pre-installed insulated or uninsulated elongated electrical conductors, which is known as CIC for Cable in Conduit. For example, a pipe110may accommodate 3 or more adjacent isolated elongated electrical conductors, which may include any combination of the same or different types of electrical cable constructions, such as insulated conductors, conduit for adding conductors at a latter stage as well as CIC.

Various means130for anchoring or mounting the plurality of pipes101substantially in proximal contact with terrain are illustrated in the Figures as described in the various embodiments below.

FIG.1illustrates conventional overhead distribution systems in which the electrically conducting cable101is suspended overhead and energized the voltage is between 4 KV and 21 KV. The conductors may be open or covered. Connections to industrial, commercial, and residential users are formed by nodes or junctions with step down transformers to reduce the voltage in distribution conduits to at least one of 120 and 240 V, or the local standard voltages for countries other than the United States. The conductors or conductor cables101are optionally suspended from upright wood, metal, or composite poles11that are mounted to the ground, soil or terrain10.

FIG.1Billustrates an embodiment of the GLDS100showing at least one fire resilient pipe110(which on poles11may include fire resilient pole covers, such as is available under the U-Guard brand) which is mounted to the terrain10(depending on the dynamics of elevation, ground, and its type) and optional junctions120at opposing ends. The left end has a junction120that forms a ground leading to an overhead distribution system whereas the right end of the pipe110has a second junction120for connection to another pipe110.

FIG.2Aillustrates how the pipes110that are mounted proximal to the ground or terrain minimize exposure to primary conductive cables101that would otherwise be suspended overhead or need to be buried in the ground. Overhead (OH) lines are eliminated between junctions120, as are poles11which suspend the OH lines, and which may provide OH transformers and service drops. Such transformers and service drops can also be provided at or within junction boxes120.

FIG.2Billustrates that junctions or junction boxes120may simply be physical connections between relatively inflexible pipe110segments, allowing each pipe segment110connected to another segment110to divert direction and/or orientation to accommodate local terrain and the desired path of the distribution system. A junction120can also be formed at a pad mounted transformer (FIG.13A) for connection to lower voltage distribution cables, such as when a utility is building new services or is able to convert the OH services to underground or a GLDS100.

FIG.3A-3Cillustrates additional components useful to comply with access and environmental regulations in terrains and jurisdictions such as California. InFIGS.3A and3Ba ramp301having an entrance and exit for fire truck crossings can be placed strategically to extend over the pipe110. The ramp301can simply be steel plates302suspended above the ground by a plurality of footings303.

As illustrated inFIG.3C, a tunnel304supported by steel plate or pipes305is placed under the ground-level system pipes can allow for crossing of wildlife, such as the California tiger salamander.

FIG.4A-6Eillustrates various components that can be optionally deployed with different manner of pipes110to convey the requisite fire resistance and mechanical resilience from possible sources of external environmental damage.

FIG.4Aillustrates anchor bolts401of various sizes for connecting plates506or other components to pads on or directly to the terrain which are optionally have lengths vary from 6, 12, 18 or more inches in length.

FIG.4Billustrates a pad mount skirt extension402for equipment with conduit(s) connected at the generally circular knockout segments403. The pad mount skirt extension402can be formed in various fire-resistant materials, such as fiberglass impregnated cross-linked plastic resins that contain flame retardant chemicals and compounds, as well as ceramic or concrete cast structures.

FIGS.5A-D,FIGS.6A-C,FIG.8A,FIGS.10A-DandFIGS.11A-E, among others, illustrate a series of alternative means for anchoring or mounting130the plurality of pipes110.

FIG.5Aillustrates a raised conduit resting stand501with anchor holes502through the anchor plate506. The conduit resting stand501is connected to the anchor plate506via vertical slabs501v. The pipe or conduit is intended to be disposed on the concave upper portion of the stand, which can be shaped to stably support other shape pipe110, such as a U-shape to support rectangular pipe110.FIGS.5B and5Crespectively illustrate in front elevation and perspective views a fiberglass composite stand503with inserts504for terrain or should attachment with a concave upward support surface.FIG.5Dillustrates an adjustable conduit support system505with an anchor plate506. The adjustable portion is the vertical placement of the two half circular arcs507aand507bthat extend around opposing sides of the pipe110and clamp it in place to the upright support column508that extend upward from the planar anchor plate506. Holes502in the anchor plate506are provided for receiving screws, bolts, clamps, or other means to connect to either terrain or soil10or terrain mounted components such as poured concrete fittings, or other terrain mountable components and the like.

The conductor cables101are preferably insulated with a flexible dielectric material and the pipes are more rigid than flexible dielectric material. However, in various embodiments a plurality or separate and spaced apart flexible or rigid dielectric conduit may be inserted or formed in pipes110in the same manner as cable101are installed and the bare or insulated conductor cable101that be inserted in into each conduit. This configuration improves the ease of replacing the conductor cable101by removing it between various junction in the system.FIG.5Eillustrates a cable and conduit system showing how schedule40PVC conduit509that is fully shielded, with aluminum or copper conductors101, typically used in underground system, is placed within the pipe110.

FIG.6Aillustrates a portion of fire-resistant pipe110segment or conduit cover with anchor holes502in opposing side flanges254. When the sides flanges254are mounted to an impermeable substrate, a pipe110is formed.FIG.6Billustrates a split conduit of steel or fire-resistant pipe110or conduit covering. When the upper shell601uand lower shell6011are fastened a pipe110is formed. The upper601uand lower shell6011may be in hinged connection along one side of the pipe110that is formed.FIG.6Cillustrates in a perspective view a fixed elevated support plate506has 2 spaced apart column or standoff that extent upward to support on opposing end a lower semi-circular bracket607b, for supporting a round pipe110which is held in place by the upper attaching to the lower semi-circular bracket607b

FIG.7Aillustrates multiple cables101that may extend parallel through the pipe110, as shown inFIG.7B, such as separate flexible fiberglass conduit segments that are spaced apart in the pipe110within which shielded conductor101is inserted in each conduit. Hence, each conductor101is within its own flexible fiberglass conduit. The pipe110contains multiple parallel strands or segments of the flexible fiberglass conduit having the connectors therein. The pipe110can be covered with U-Guard brand fire resistant layers that protect the fiberglass conduit and conductors therein. Further, as another example the pipe110can be metallic, and grounded, or nonmetallic composite materials that are reinforced and significantly thicker than the flexible fiberglass conduit to provide strength from external physical damage as well as minimize the potential for fire damage.

FIG.8Aillustrates configurations for uneven ground of a cable101within conduit the primary system is to be installed fiberglass or steel pipe110with anchoring systems. The anchors130can be selected as appropriate to the site dynamics.FIG.8Billustrates another embodiment in which multiple pipes110that comprise flexible PVC conduit have conductors therein and are covered by an elongated composite or steel U-shaped cover115with anchoring holes502on opposing sides. The U-shaped cover may have one or more layers that are fire resistant coatings.

FIGS.9A and9Billustrate a split conduit system900which is open like an elongated shell inFIG.9A. This split conduit is illustrated as closed inFIG.9B.FIG.9Balso illustrates an adjustable bracket140extending around the pipe110that is connected by an upright column or standoff508that can be varied in height above the lateral anchoring plate506to which it is coupled. The position of the bracket140that extends around the pipe110may be adjustable via the upright stand508, which can have sliding or telescoping sections.

FIG.10A-Dillustrate alternative views of a form of anchoring means130that is a steel clamps1001that form ½ circular arc between the coupling thereof at opposing ends to lateral mounting fixtures1002, which have holes502for receiving screws, or bolts such as ground penetrating anchor bolts401, clamps or other means to connect to either terrain or terrain mounted components such as poured concrete footings.FIG.10Ais a front elevation view thereof,FIG.10Bis a top plan view,FIG.10Cis a perspective view andFIG.10Dis a side elevation view of the clamp.

FIG.11A-11Eillustrates various views alternative clamps or anchoring means130to couple various embodiments of the pipe110to the terrain or soil10. The various anchoring means130may deploy a plate506with holes502such as receiving ground penetrating anchor bolts401. The plate506may support via one or more columns508or stands off that extend upward to support the resting plate501that has an upward concavity to receive a portion of the outer diameter of the pipe101, as well as alternative shape to receive and support the complimentary shape of a pipe with a different cross-sectional shape, such as a U-shape for a rectangular pipe101.

FIG.12Aillustrates in a perspective view a tap link cabinet1201with a plurality of knock outs or punch outs403which when opened can then receive pipes110that can optionally be configured for elevated to flat ground installation or be pad mounted for further protection.

FIG.12Bis a schematic illustration of the optional electrical connections in a junction box120via busbars1203within the link, which optionally may use single phase vacuum switches.

FIGS.13A-Cillustrate alternative embodiments of a pad mount transformer1301option with secondary risers in which each pipe110can extend outward to sides of the cabinet which optionally may contain a loop transformer.

FIG.14A-Dillustrate alternative embodiments of junction boxes120which inFIG.4Amay have a separate connection. The junction box120has internal connections between conductive cable therein that enter on opposite side from pipe110that extend on or parallel to the surface of terrain10. The junction boxes120inFIG.14B-Cin contrast connect or direct cable therein101from a horizontal direction in a first pipe or conduit110to exit from the junction box to then extend in a second pipe or conduit110in the vertical direction such as up a pole11to connect with a transformer and or OH distribution system.

FIG.15A-15Eare schematic structural and assembly diagrams of another aspect of ground-level distribution system100formed from multiple components that include a base250for supporting a series of cable101in a spaced apart arrangement in channels255defined by one or more arcing segments. The side channel255′ have a smaller radius arc to accommodate smaller diameter optic cables102, such as may be used for system integrity communications, or leased to third parties, such as telephonic and cable signal and entertainment distribution networks. The cable101and102may remain spaced apart by an indexing member260in which a plurality of downward appendages265descent from a generally horizontal support261. The indexing member260may be arcuate at opposing side260R and260L to conform to the interior or lower surface2151shape of a capping member215with a plurality of spaced apart holes216. The center of the capping member215is arcuate with flat side flanges254having hole254hthat align with side holes in the base250. A dielectric filler, such as concrete mixtures can be poured or pumped into the cavity257between the capping member215and the base250via the holes216. The capping member215has sloping arcuate sides253the upper center portion and flat side flanges254are reinforced by the cured and allow vehicle to drive over the structure without damaging the integrity of the sealed cables101and102.

FIG.16A-Cillustrate another embodiment in which the cable101and optionally cable102are sealed in an elongated pipe110formed form a plurality of generally U-shaped boxes with open ends270that itself is covered with a sealable lid271. Each U-shaped channel segment or box270that is then covered by a capping member215having smooth and generally arcuate sloping sides253. The cable101and optionally cables102are seated the receiving channel255in the bottom of the U-shaped channel segment or box270When the boxes270are arranged end to end and the cable101and optionally102inserted in receiving channels255then concrete can be pumped or poured into the box270before the lid251set on the upper rim inserted. The filled boxes270with lids271are then covered by the caping member215and concrete is poured or pumped via the holes216thereof to file the space above the lid271, the sides of the box270and below the capping member270. The box270is set on the ground10, and the capping member has side flanges254that extend beyond the edge of the box for anchoring to the ground via the holes254hthereof. It should be noted that the holes216for filling with concrete include a center hole and 2 holes on opposing sloping side253that are between the center hole216cand the side holes216s. The sloping sides of the capping member215when reinforced by the filler such as concrete1501, will support vehicle and allow then to readily traverse the pipe or conduit110. It is preferable that the capping member215have sloped sides in the direction transverse to the principal axis of the pipe110that form an acute angle α with terrain10that is preferable less than about 60°, and more preferably not more than 45°. In other embodiments the lid115or the tray or enclose150may provide such sloped sides between the ground or terrain and the pipe110to allow vehicle to cross-the pipe, as well as avoid making a barrier for small animals. In other embodiments such sloped sides in the direction transverse to the principal axis of the pipe110may form an angle α with terrain10that is preferable less than about 75°, and more preferably not more than 65°, and most preferably not more than 45° by the shape of the most exterior components of the pipe110or system, such as junction boxes120. More preferably, the transitions between the sides of the pipe110and any component of the GLDS100have gradual changes in curvature between the portion of the side with the largest slope a and the terrain10and a top of the pipe110or other components that is flat and vertical, such as in the embodiment odFIG.15A,17A,25C,26A-30B, among others.

FIG.17A-Eschematically illustrate another alternative embodiment of a methods of forming a pipe110for GLDS100in which conductors101a,101band101care protected. A series of trays150are disposed on the natural, re-graded or added ground surface10and then attached end to end along the common principal axis1001of the pipe110that they collectively form when joined. The conductive cable or conduit101a,101band101care placed in concave channels155that extend between opposing front and rear ends which are intended to align with the principal axis of the pipe110. The opposing sides transverse to front and rear ends have a series of holes. The lid115is domed in the center to extend over the installed conductive cable or conduit101a,101band101c, with opposing side flanges154shaped to engage the side region of the tray150and have a series of holes154hfor aligning with the holes in the tray150. The lid115may have a series of holes116in the lid115for filling with concrete. The two flanges154of the lid154are thus in parallel alignment with and that straddle the principal axis1001of the pipe110.FIG.17Dis an optional connection piece or coupler bar170that can be attached to over the interface of lids115that cover adjacent trays150.

FIG.18AtoFIG.19Bschematically illustrate in various views alternative embodiments of junctions120with multiple portals121for receiving connections to the pipes110having conductors101. The junction120is optionally sealed with a lid121after filling with concrete after connections have been made between incoming cable101, which enter the junction120through segments of pipe110on one, two, three or any number additional portals121that may be disposed on the sides of the junction120. These figures illustrate how the sides may extend outward from the portal121to match the shape of the pipes which inFIG.19A-19Dwould have parallel sides and a arced top, or inFIG.20, which the pipe101may have a rectangular cross-sectional shape, as shown inFIG.20Bin which the portal121are shaped to receive a pipe101with inward sloping sides.

FIG.20schematically illustrated a portion of a pipe110or pipe segment with installed cable101surround by or enclosed in concrete1501within the pipe110, the pipe110being disposed on the ground surface or terrain10.

FIG.21-30illustrate components of another preferred embodiment of a ground level distribution system100in which the pipe110is formed of a plurality of trays150which are attached at opposing ends that are covered by lids115optionally after the trays150are filled. It should be understood that any of these embodiments may have the tray or enclosure150or cable support strips160that contains channel for supporting and providing physical separation between the electrical or conductor cables101and optionally one or more fiber optic cable102from the electrical or conductor cables101.

FIG.21Aillustrates an alternative embodiment of the pipe110with installed cap, covers or lid115over a base150for containing a plurality of conductor cables101a,101band101c. The base150has upright sidewalls151that terminate at a rim152.

FIG.21Bschematically illustrated how the base or trays150and lids115may have a have a lag offset as upper flange154ufon the front opposing end150fand a lower flange1541fat the back opposing end150bprovide for improved sealing by the overlap of the adjacent trays150and lid115that form the pipe110.

In the various embodiment schematically illustrated inFIG.21B-27Dthe opposing ends150fand150bof the tray150and other structures for receiving the cable101are preferably configured to overlap with the opposing portion of the identical tray150to form a linear path for disposing a different conductor and/or signal cable101in each channel155to form a ground mounted pipe110. Hence, the GLDS100is optionally formed by assembling a plurality of trays150that attach end to end to form an enclosing sides of the pipe110for the cables101and/or fiber optic cables102.

In addition, the upward facing surface of the tray150may have semi-circular depressions or portion of arcs155that extend lengthwise as channel to accommodate insulated conductor cables101or rigid or pliable plastic pipe through which cables101can be passed through. The semi-circular depressions need not form a complete semi-circle, but rather a sufficient number of short points or arc segments to support the cables101. The depressions155can be arranged in a spaced apart relationship of adjacent placement of conductor cable101, and some depression may be smaller than others for supporting smaller diameter cables, including fiber optic cables102.

The space between the opposing sides151of the trays150and the interior bottom153provide a cavity157for receiving an at least fire-resistant or fireproof material1501to surround the cables101. A cap or cover115may be placed over each tray or base150after the cavity1507is filled with a preferably fireproof material. It should be understood that the various cross-sections of conduit or pipe110with installed cable101that are surrounded by a concrete1501, the concrete1501may be replaced with a different supporting media that is solid or particulate and is preferably a refractory or fire-resistant material. Fire resistant particulate, such as refractory ceramics and mineral like perlite and vermiculite would allow re-work and reconfiguration in temporary structures without the need to break up concrete.

The cap or cover115for the tray150is preferably one of curved and slanted at the sidewalls154that descend downward to a lower rim117to match the curvature of the sides151of the tray150, with the hole118hon the side flanges118that extend laterally from each side of the rim117coming into alignment with the holes154hto receive the appropriate form of an anchor401which couples the pipe101to the surface or ground10, as well as the lid115to the tray150.

Side flanges154that extend the length of each tray150may have holes154hor perforation to allow the insertion of anchoring members or anchor bolts401or other means to tie the assembly of trays150to the underlying ground surface10, and thus provide alternative anchoring means. In any of the various embodiments, the underlaying terrain, soil, or ground surface10may be solid or a bed of complaint matter12that can optionally be hardened and protected from wear or erosion by wind and water.

FIG.22Aillustrates schematically an alternative embodiment of the pipe110with installed cap, covers or lid115over a tray or base150for containing a plurality of conductor cables101a,101band101c. The base150has upright sidewalls151that terminate at a rim152. The cap115inFIG.22Amay have outer descending flanges115fthat extend beyond the sidewalls151and the extend downward partially over the sidewall to prevent transverse movement once installed.

Alternatively, the cap115inFIG.22Bmay have an inner portion115ithat descends partly below the rim152and an outer flange115fthat is disposed on the rim152. One or more portions115iof the cap115that descent below the rim152of the tray150allow the cap115to be sealed in place in the on the tray150when the descending portions are embedded in uncured concrete that fill the cavity157and surrounds the cable101and/or102or conduit tubing for receiving the same.

FIG.23Dillustrates a cross sections of an embodiment of the GLDS100in which the cable101are surround by a protective concrete1501that was formed by filling the trays150after the conductors101are inserted into bottom of the tray150. The A soft or compliant filler material12, such as sand may be placed on the ground10before setting down the tray150, such that when the tray150is filled with concrete1501the weight allows it to settle in the sand12which conforms to the exterior bottom shape of the tray150.

InFIGS.23A and23Cthe tray150has inward sloping sidewall151that terminate at a rim152. The tray150has an interior bottom153between the bases of the sides151. The exterior of the base of the sides walls151have side flanges154that extend laterally outward from each sidewall151and have a plurality of holes154hfor receiving anchoring members or anchor bolts401that enter the underlying ground surface10to secure the plurality of trays150and thus the pipe110and GLDS100in place. The cables101or hollow dielectric tubes for receiving cable101may be placed within semi-circular channels155formed in the bottom153of the tray150, and optionally channels for fiber optical cable102. The upper flange154ufof the rightward tray will then extend over the lower flange15flfof the leftward tray150. The tray150is completed by fixing the bottom153to the ground surface or terrain10before placing one or more conductive cables101or fiber optical cables102in the channel155in the bottom153. Then the lid115is placed over the bottom153such that flanges118on the opposing sides of the lid115rim117extend over the flanges154of the bottom153. Flange118may terminate at a downward extending edge119that extends over the vertical side of the flanges154. The tray150can be filled with concrete via holes116in the top portion or lid115. The filling of the trays150and placement of the lids115thereon then seals the overlapping flange of both the tray150and the lid115. In other embodiments, the tray150can be filled to the rim of the sides and the lids115then attached before the concrete sets.

As shown schematically inFIG.25A-25Cthe tray150itself may have either an open or flat bottom153and a plurality of cable supports strips160are disposed along the length of the end-to-end assembly of trays150, each cable support strip160being spaced apart from the most adjacent cable support strips160. The cable support strips160have a series of adjacent support surfaces, such as the semi-circular channels165, which are intended for receiving cable101. The cable strips160also have descending stand offs167to raise the circular channel165above an optional bottom153of the tray150or the top of the earth or soil10. When concrete1501is added to fill the cavity157, it can flow under the support strips160, and more particularly under the circular channels166and thus when solidified provide support structural support if vehicles drive over the completed pipe110and prevent damage to the cable101. Circular channels166may have a smaller diameter to support additional and smaller diameter fiber optical cables.

FIG.26A-27Care perspective views the components of the trays150and the lids115for end-to-end assembly to form a section of a ground disposed pipe110for housing conductor cable101. The trays150and lids115are intended in these Figures, among others to generally correspond with the corresponding components inFIG.23A-26C. In particular,FIG.26Ashows a curved tray150before insertion of cable101and placement of the lid115.FIG.26Bshows a partial view thereof that includes the ground10contacting portion of the tray150, whereasFIG.26Cshows the fitting of the lid115over a single curved tray150before insertion of cable101.

FIG.27Aillustrates in perspective view a plurality of trays150assembled end to end, for forming a portion of a ground mounted pipe110, in which three or more cables101are in place before covering with the lid115.FIG.27Bthen shows the trays150covered by lids115.FIG.11Cis an enlarged view of a portion ofFIG.11B, andFIG.11Dis an inverted perspective view of the coupler bar that170fits over the connection of adjacent trays150in which flanges at the front150fand back150bof adjacent trays150and lids115may meet.

FIG.27A-Calso schematically illustrate that the caps or lid115may held in place by a coupler bar170. Ideally the cap115and coupler bar170engage the tray150via a snap fitting. Hence, the coupler bar170is preferably configured of plastic that is sufficiently flexible to enable a snap fit over the portion of the caps115that cover adjacent trays150. The trays or bases150may be curved to change the direction of the linear path, such as to proceed around obstacle or accommodate a transition to or from a vertical orientation, such as up a utility pole11, as illustrated inFIG.28Cin which the path of the pipe110transitions from horizontal and at ground level to ascent up the side of the utility pole11. The trays or bases150may be curved to better match the soil or terrain10, as well as curved to the right or left on the ground (FIGS.26B-CandFIGS.27A-B) to change direction of the pipe110to avoid obstacles that are difficult or environmentally destructive to relocation, such as boulders or mature trees. When the terrain is particularly steep the lid115with holes116may be installed before inserting, pouring, or pumping concrete1501into the cavity1507between the cap or lid115and the tray150.

FIG.28A-Cillustrated in perspective view portion of a pipe101connecting junctions120or to overhead power lines on poles11.FIG.28Cillustrate how the pipe110enclosing cable101may have a tray150and lid115combine to curve on the ground surface and to arch upward from the ground surface10up the pole11. InFIG.28Athe pole11to the left now longer supports OH lines as they extend in the pipe110on the ground surface.FIG.28Billustrates the pipe110extending between and beyond junction120. The junction120may contain system and environmental monitors which transmitted encoded signal thereof, such as fluctuations in voltage or current in any of the cable101, the temperature thereof and that of the environment to the fiber optical cable102that is also enclosed in the pipe110. The pipe110may be mounted or disposed on or at the ground surface, as illustrated inFIGS.31A-32C,30A and30C, or extend over various structure that either by-pass surface structures obstacle or allow passage for wildlife, such as over tunnel304or under a vehicle ramp301, well as connected to any pipe110with cable101that is supported above the ground surface such as with adjustable conduit stand505and conduit resting stand501.

FIG.29A-Dillustrate in perspective view alternative shape or the bases or trays150and the caps or lids115for covering them that have a different number of channels for spacing apart and supporting cables or conduit101an/or102.

FIG.30A-Dillustrate in various views how a GLDS100may have a flush or essentially flush pipe110portion connected via a junction box120to a pipe110mounted or above the top of the terrain or soil10.FIG.30Acorresponds to section line A-A inFIG.30CwhereasFIG.30Bcorresponds to section line B-B inFIG.30C. InFIG.30Aan essentially flush pipe110fthat contains conduits or cables110f(to the left side of the elevation view inFIG.30C) has a top at or just below ground level.FIG.30Bis cross-section elevation view of the ground level pipe110(to the rightside of the elevation view inFIG.30C) with the cable or conduit101being slightly bent in the transition between them through the junction box120(FIG.30C).FIG.30Dis a schematic side elevation view of the transition from a buried distribution system or pipe containing cables or conduits101bron the left of the junction box120to the GLDS100on the right, in which the cable or conduit101is also bent in the transition. Such transitions can also be accomplished by splicing cable101in a junction box120.

FIG.31A-Cillustrate alternative means for connecting a GLDS100to a buried distribution system in which the last unit or component of the pipe110is optionally a base or tray150with lid115that is tapered downward to brings the cable or conduit101into an optionally buried junction box120for underground distribution. InFIGS.31B and31Dcable or conduit101is shown in cross-hatching, while alternative embodiment of these components are shown schematically in isolation inFIGS.21Aand C.

InFIGS.31Aand B, the combined base or tray150with lid115connects this last component that form the pipe110on the front side150fwhile the end or back150bfmay form a sealed connection with the top of the junction box120so that the same cable or conduit101can extend between them with a gradual bend avoiding the need to form a splice via an intermediate connector in the junction box120. The end or back opening150bffaces downward while the front opening150ffaces sideways or laterally.

InFIGS.31Band C, the cable101enter the buried box120from the sides, so the component, which optionally may comprise the base or tray150covered by lid115also tapers downward with a buried back face150brprovided for forming a preferably sealed connection to the junction box120. Both the front side150fand back face150brthat is buried face laterally. It should be understood that the use of the base or tray150with the lid115is merely an example, and these components may also be sealed at the top, rather than receive a lid for closure of an open top.

FIG.32A-33Cillustrate a process of installation using the base150with uprights sidewalls151to form a flush or essentially flush pipe110with multiple conductors101, using a cross-section through the ground10that is transverse to the principal axis of the pipe110. In the first step, FIG. a shallow trench15is formed in the ground surface10by excavation, or mounding soil or granular solid spaced apart to form the sides15sthat extend upward from the bottom15b. Then, bases or trays150with upright sides151are inserted or formed in the in the trench15, with earth10either being generally flush with exterior sidewalls151or being filled in with earth of other granular filler to the exterior of the sidewalls151. Next, conductor101or conduits for receiving a flexible conductor101are placed in the mating depressions of channel155, which are optionally part of the base, or formed by spaced apart cable supports strips160(as illustrated inFIG.25A-C.) in either a base with sides, or if the earth or soil10surrounding the trench15is sufficiently stable then the cable support strip160may be placed on the bottom15bof the trench15. However, it is preferable to deploy some versions of the base or trays150with sides that can then serve as a guide, so the trench is excavated at a sufficient depth to protect the cable101and is still generally flush or slightly below with the top of the earth10to provide vertical space for adding an optional lid115. The region between the sides15sof the trench15and/or the sides151of a base or tray150is filled with concrete1501to cover the conductors101. The lid115may then be set over the wet concrete to provide further protection, as well as a marking to aid in locating the pipe110in case of a need for further service or repair, as well as an additional warning barrier against inadvertent excavation thereof. To the extent the top of the lid115is below the level of the adjacent earth10, it can be covered with layer16, which is optionally earth or soil10, or other granular material such as paving asphalt and the like when it is desired to provide ground level electrical distribution systems100adjacent streets and roads. The flush or essentially flush pipe110may be considered a Minimum Cover Cable system (MCCS) as the amount or soil10or aggregate covering the pipe110or the lids115thereof may be less than about 4 inches (100 mm), and the depth below the soil or terrain grade10of the bottom of the pipe110or the trays or bases thereof less than about 4 to 12 inches (100 mm to 300 mm), while still providing adequate protection to and from the high voltage in the conductors thereof, and eliminating the likely of live conductors being penetrated or exposed in a manner that can ignite fires. The amount or soil10or aggregate covering the pipe110or the lids115is also generally less than about half of the height of the cavity5107formed between a lid115and base or tray150. Such flush or essentially flush pipe110of the MCCS can also be deployed below or as part of a GLDS100that includes ground level pipe110as described in other embodiment to create a Multi-Layer Electric Primary system.

In another embodiment of the method the various useful shapes of at least portion of the bases and trays150may be formed in the shallow trench by extruding a continuous base of concrete via one of a die and a pattern to provide walls and channel to space apart and support the conductor cable101and/or fiber optic cables102. The continuous base150of concrete is preferably fire-resistant concrete.

FIGS.34A and34Billustrate another alternative embodiment of a junction box120for connecting segments of the pipe110in the GLDS showing how the cable101enter the base of the junction box120and then follow a convoluted path, such to first extent at least partway up the walls, then extend around the interior perimeter, then descending to exit on the opposite side. The extra length of each of the3cable101(for ground, neutral and powered cables) provided by the convoluted path within the junction box120provides for also additional space for including switches, 3 or more way distribution junctions as well as making splices if the GLDS segment110on one side is completely damaged and needs to be replaced by new cables101brought into the junction box120. The junction box170may be of sufficient height to form a walk-in height enclosure that is formed of reinforcement, such as with an anchored cement foundation, walls and or roof to withstand high winds in storms and tornados. Such enclosures also have wind and debris impact resilient door and fitting for entering to provide service, testing, maintenance, or repair.

FIGS.35A and35Billustrate an alternative embodiment of a junction box120in which each of the3cables101are situated side by side as the enter the junction box but are folded in a convoluted shape, such as the Z-pattern to provide extra cable length for making splices if the GLDS segment110on one side is completely damaged and needs to be replaced by new cables101brought into the junction box120.

FIG.36A-37Cillustrate alternative means for making gradual adjustment of one or more of each GLDS component, such as the trays or enclosures150and lid115to follow a non-planar terrain or grade10.

InFIGS.36A and36Ba variant of a coupler170that is now a hollow coupling segment171with an interior cavity157for joining two assembled trays or enclosures150with lids115. The hollow coupling segment171has a central or medial convoluted plastic or elastomeric portion175that is flexible until filled with solidified insulator such as concrete1501. The central portion175may have more rigid or thicker opposing end portions176for engaging and sealing open ends of the tray or enclosure150either before or after inserting the lid115. The depth of the hollow coupling segment171can be varied to accommodate the intended width of the pipe110transverse to the principal axis. The open right and left side segments158R and158L defined by the opposing ends176then extend outward from the central portion175to receive and sealingly engage the flanges at the front150fand back150bof adjacent trays or enclosures150to provide a variable change in angle of the pipe110that receives cable101to form the GLDS100. Cables101that extend through the pipe110may then curves within the central convoluted portion175. The convoluted central portion175may have thinner walls that the right and left side segments158R and158L so the flexure can occur at the changes in direction of the convolutions and/or flexible convoluted central portion175may be made of a more compliant or elastomeric polymer or resin, such as a thermo-plastic elastomer or silicone rubber.

InFIG.37A-C, the tray or enclosure150has a central portion1575that is hollow having a convoluted plastic or elastomeric outer wall capable of flexure as shown inFIG.37C, in a similar mode to the convoluted plastic or elastomeric portion175inFIGS.36A and36B. InFIG.37Athe open base or tray component150for forming a pipe100of the GLDS100has a lid or cover115installed on the open left side150L, whereas the lid115is or cover is not yet installed in the right side150R. In the cross-sectional elevation view inFIG.37Cthe cover or lid115is installed on the right side150R and the left side150L and the central convoluted portion175between them is flexed to tilt the right side150L at an acute angle away from the left side150L. The cable101is shown inside the cavity157in an exterior elevation view and curves within the central convoluted portion being supported on cable support strips160or optionally semi-circular channels155formed or placed in the bottom153of the right side150R and the left side150L of the tray or enclosure150. The lids115on the left and right sides of the tray or enclosure may be installed before or after concrete1501is placed in the cavity157. When the lids115are placed on the right150R and left150L sides the concrete1501may flow around the cable101from the upper adjacent enclosure150of the pipe110.

It is preferable that the set of assembled trays or enclosures150and caps or lids115, and/or functionally equivalent components are filled with a relatively fire resilient concrete1501so that a wildfire can pass through or adjacent the GLDS100while the concrete protects the integrity of filling material and overall system as it relates to longevity.

The concrete1501used to fill the pipe110may be admixed with clay, limestone, and gypsum as well as nonmetallic reinforcing fibers, such as glass fiber and aramid fibers to improve strength and fire resistance. Appropriate concrete formulations are provided in the following patent documents, all of which are incorporated herein by reference: U.S. Ser. No. 10/029,945B2 issued 2018 Jul. 24 to WERZ J, et al.; U.S. Pat. No. 4,276,091A issued 1981 Jun. 39 to Kaiser Aluminum Corp.; U.S. Pat. No. 5,472,497A issued on 1992 Jun. 20 to Jaklin, H. and CN108975810A published 2018 Dec. 11 (inventors She Wei et al.)

Fire resistant concrete1501will also contain a potential internal ignition within the pipe110, as well as maintain structural integrity where the cables101are not damaged by external or internal heat, and thus limit the portion of the GLDS100that would need local repair.

It is also preferable that the set of assembled trays150that together form the sealed elongated pipe110are fabricated from a dielectric material or composite that is either neither flammable nor will propagate flames that originate either internally or externally. A range of plastic resins, and particularly plastic resins that contain particulate and/or glass fibers for reinforcement, as well as organic flame retardant additives are known for this purpose. Non-limiting examples of these materials are disclosed in the following patent documents, which are incorporated herein by reference. The includes EP2346130A2 issued 2011 Jul. 20 to Kupilik, P. et al. for “Fireproof tube for cables”; and U.S. Pat. No. 5,985,385A which issued on 1999 Nov. 16 to Gottfied S and U.S. Pat. No. 5,681,640A issued Oct. 28, 1997 to Kiser, M. D.

There are also many types of suitable plastic materials commercially available such as Kydex T™ brand formable and fire-retardant sheet from ACI Plastics of 3001 Spruce St. St. Louis, Mo. 63103Royalite™ brand Aerospace Rated Sheet as well as Oyalite FR Weather Resistant Sheet, R87/59, both available from Spartech 11650 Lakeside Crossing Ct. Maryland Heights, Mo., United States, 63146. Also, potentially useful materials are plastic, resins and composites qualified for use on aircraft interiors due to their FAR 25/853 flame-rated compliance. Such materials may include the Royalite® product line, Noryl™ Modified Polyphenylene Ether Sheet, GTX grade UL 94HB and EN265 grade UL 94V-1, as well as composites and filled resins (such as with granular fillers, discrete fibers or continuous fibers) based on any of the following polymers, which include without limitation: Polyetherether ketone (PEEK), Polyetherketone (PEK), polyphenylene sulfide (PES), Polyphenylene Ether (PPE), Polyamide-imide, blends of polyvinylchloride (PVC) and acrylic, butadiene and styrene copolymers (ABS) and blends of PVC and acrylic resins. Fiberglass, mineral and ceramic fillers, and flame retardant compounds can be used as fillers to render various plastic resins such as the above less flammable and likely to propagate flames, and thus comply with standards such as UL 94 V-0, 5VA, HB, FMVSS 302. Furthermore, the plastic resins may contain ultraviolet (UV) light absorbing fillers, such as titanium dioxide and zinc oxide to improve resistance to degradation from solar exposure on the upper and side surface of the lids115and bases or trays150, and similar components such as the coupler bars170.

It should be appreciated that the use of plastic trays150and lids115, and components with equivalent function or placement or assembly may be fabricated from materials other than plastic, resin or plastic/resin and fiber composites, such as without limitation pre-cast concrete components or ceramic components. Depending on strength and stiffness of the material used to form the trays and bases150and related structure that support the cable101the thickness of the upright walls154is preferably at least about 0.1 inches thick (2.5 mm) to about 0.5 inches (12 mm) and more preferably about 0.25 inches (6 mm) thick or greater. The height of the trays or bases150may vary to accommodate cable101of different diameter. The cable support strips160and the channels and the semi-circular channels155formed in the bottom153of the tray150, as well as comparable structures in other embodiments for supporting cables101and102may be formed of or coated with low coefficient of friction resins such as Ultrahigh Molecular Weight Polyethylene (UHMWPE), fluoropolymers, polyamide resins and resins filled with low friction fillers, such as molybdenum disulfide to facilitate pulling cables through the pipe110with or without the covers or lids115in places as an alternative to laying the cables101into the cable support strips or semi-circular channels155and comparable structures in other embodiments.

It should be appreciated that significant benefits accrue from using various plastic materials for the trays150and lids115in combination with encasing the conductors101in concrete. The trays110with various sidewalls for a mold for containing the liquid concrete when it is poured to cover and protect the conductors110. Then, by covering the opening in the tray150with the plastic lid115the concrete filler1501is protected from the elements which can erode it. The lid115also provides a means to indicate the location of a live conductor to enhance safety. The indication in the lid115can be embossed so it is still visible if a sticker, decal, or painted indicia becomes faded over time, or is washed or eroded away.

It should also be appreciated that other benefits of the various embodiment of the GLDS100may include reliable power to customers that is robust in resisting damage and interruptions from high winds or storms.

Further, the GLDS100will also eliminate or reduce utilities cost in vegetation management, and the risk of tree/root growth into facilities (as experienced in underground systems) and improve the ease of inspection of the same to promote prompt interventions that avoid service disruptions.

In addition, the GLDS will eliminate the risk of dig-ins by providing clear indication of high-power line. The GLDS100further improves the environmental hazard management to support leach field challenges and methane gases below ground, which has challenged Pacific Gas and Electric in restoring new service to the Northern California town of Paradise after it was destroyed by a wildfire.

The various embodiment of the GLDS100may be particularly suited as a solution to provide electric services that transit utility easements (PUE) due to limited space, as well as situations in which fire risk from OH power lines need to be mitigated without excavation, such as on Native America reservations, organic farms and vineyard that surround wineries.

While the invention has been described in connection with a preferred embodiment, it is not intended to limit the scope of the invention to the particular form set forth, but on the contrary, it is intended to cover such alternatives, modifications, and equivalents as may be within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims. Such alternatives may include various combinations and sub-combinations of components, materials, features, process steps and other aspects of the innovations from some embodiments, with those in other embodiments.

For example, in all the embodiments in which a lid115is used to cover a tray or base150to form an enclosure to be coupled with other enclosures to form the pipe110, some of the lids115may have holes for filling the pipe110with a granular or fluid material like various aggregates and concrete. In an additional example any of the enclosures may be curved or best within a common plane of the pipe110or bent, to direct the pipe110upward or downward, or deploy a flexible enclosure or couple multiple enclosures with flexible couplings to provide a gradual modulation of slope of portion of the pipe110to match the terrain or ground10, both for pipe110disposed on the ground level or essentially flush with the terrain or ground level10.