This emergency telephone pole project was done under Guardian Telecom’s help-point product line (the OGP towers). My work included performing a finite element analysis on the pole structure to verify strength and determine a factor of safety against wind and impact loads. I designed the pole’s steel sections and internal mounting features so they could reliably support telecom and beacon hardware while resisting corrosion and mechanical stress. The pole also includes sealed service panels, integrated DIN rails for internal equipment, and durable finishes to protect the internals from moisture and vandalism.
Skills: SolidWorks, Vendor Management, FEA, DFM, 2D Mechanical Drawings, Sheet Metal, Surface Finishing, Product Development Lifecycle
CAD Model
The emergency telephone pole was modeled in SolidWorks using a combination of Sheet Metal and Part Design tools to accurately represent the real Guardian Telecom enclosure. The main body was created using base flanges, edge flanges, and relief cuts to maintain realistic bend radii and manufacturable geometry. Cutouts were added for the handset and button panel, along with mounting flanges, drainage slots, and internal support brackets. Features such as welded joints, mounting tabs, and bent access panels were included to reflect how the actual pole would be fabricated and assembled. The final model captures the functional layout and aesthetic proportions of the real product while remaining fully manufacturable.
FEA Analysis
A static FEA was performed in SolidWorks Simulation to evaluate the strength and stability of the emergency telephone pole under wind and impact loads. The analysis confirmed that the design met all performance requirements with a factor of safety above 2.5, ensuring the structure could safely withstand outdoor service conditions. To validate the results, the study was reviewed by external FEA contractors holding P.Eng certifications, whose expertise helped refine load assumptions and confirm the final model’s accuracy. Their stamped approval verified that the pole’s design met engineering standards for field deployment.
Manufacturing and Finishing
The emergency telephone pole is manufactured using sheet metal fabrication processes, including laser cutting, forming, and fastened assembly to ensure consistency and ease of production. Each enclosure is finished with a durable powder coat that provides corrosion and UV resistance for long-term outdoor use. The poles are available in multiple color options — blue for standard emergency use, yellow for caution or industrial zones, and black for low-visibility or security environments. The smooth, uniform surface finish not only enhances appearance but also ensures the pole remains weather-resistant and easy to maintain over time.
Field Deployment
This image shows the Guardian Telecom Emergency Telephone Pole installed at a train station in Edmonton, Alberta, where it serves as a reliable public safety communication point. The installation highlights the pole’s bright blue finish and illuminated signage, designed for high visibility even in low-light conditions. Its sturdy sheet-metal construction, weather-resistant coating, and clean design make it suitable for harsh Canadian climates and long-term outdoor operation. Seeing the design fully deployed in the field demonstrates the successful integration of engineering, manufacturing, and safety standards from concept to real-world use.