| abstract |
A sheath apparatus is described for the protection of exposed structures, in particular cables, poles, pipes, and towers from destructive interactions with external threats, including: various animals (including man), plants, and machines as well as from general environmental hazards. The protective configurable sheath apparatus may be optimized for a specific candidate (type of animal, plant, environmental hazard, machine) or for a range of candidates. A configurable sheath fully or partially encompasses the exposed structure to be protected. The sheath may be attached by a variety of means and is typically designed so that it is removable or upgradable. Thus, the sheath can be employed on a temporary basis or it can be replaced/modified as is needed. This versatile configurable sheath permits customization of commercially-available, mass-produced structures as well as retrofitting of installed structures. Sheath base materials may serve multiple functions. The protective properties of the sheath are not necessarily restricted to deterrents such as spikes, colors, patterns (which are used by snakes, frogs, insects, etc.), agents, etc. Design characteristics may also emphasize reducing or increasing the detectability of the exposed structure and attracting beneficial animals (or plants). Intelligent sheath apparatus incorporate active components and they may incorporate passive components. Intelligent sheath capabilities can be enhanced to handle surveillance applications. |