EZ fit antenna base (side mount)

Abstract

An apparatus for securing an antenna to a surface by the use of an antenna mount with internal cabling routing, which prevents any cables from showing. With only one through hole required at the time of installation. A unique way to eliminate water penetration by the use of O rings, and gaskets clamped to the surface by a simple process, and therefore eliminating troublesome holes made by screws. While allowing free movement of the antenna for raising and lowering purposes. one nut installation that can be performed by a single relatively unskilled person. Simple to manufacture with a minimal number of parts. with a beautiful streamlined appearance, that can be used for mounting almost any standard antenna.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]This application is based on provisional application Ser. No. 60 / 937,691, filed on Jun. 29, 2007.STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT[0002]Not ApplicableDESCRIPTION OF ATTACHED APPENDIX[0003]Not ApplicableBACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0004]This invention relates generally to the field of marine electronics and more specifically to EZ fit antenna base (side mount), which is an apparatus for securing an antenna or similar object to a surface, allowing for multi dimensional movement for lowering purposes and to clear obstacles protruding from boat or any other object installed upon. The apparatus being to the most part hollow to allow for internal cable runs, therefore eliminating the unsightly appearance of external cabling as in all prior art.[0005]The invention will improve the appearance because of the internal cable routing, whilst making the area safer as there are no cables to trip over, It also makes removal ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0022]Still yet another object of the invention is circular design eliminates unsightly accidentally distorted positioning.

[0025]A further object of the invention is fewer tools needed for installation.

[0028]In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention, there is disclosed an apparatus for securing an antenna to a surface comprising: A hollow antenna mount with an internal cable routing system where only one through hole in the surface is required for installation, a way to totally eliminate any water penetration, but permits easy and quick installation or removal of the antenna for replacements of any moving parts or stowage reasons. yet permits free and easy two plane movement for raising or lowering the antenna to clear obstacles. A simple one nut, screw free installation process that easily allows for one relatively unskilled person to perform. The streamline circular design with no external cables showing would enhance the appearance of any vessel.

Problems solved by technology

Previously existing antenna mounts have improved in appearance slightly over the years, by manufacturing them from polished stainless steel, or the use of chrome plating, but little or nothing has been accomplished regarding clumsy looks, poor installation design and the dependence of the installation technician to use enough caulk to prevent leaks.

As most existing mounts are rectangle based in shape they are difficult to be made to look aesthetic against the curvature in design of most modern boats. also all prior technology is externally cabled, which apart from being a trip hazard, allows the harsh marine environment to damage the external portions of cable in a very short length of time, together with at least four extra holes through the vessel where the cable enters causing potential water penetration areas.

The use of screws or nuts and bolts to hold the prior technology adds to unsightly appearance especially as these items appear to rust or corrode more aptly in harsh environments.

The heads of screws are easily damaged during the installation process, giving them sharp edges and unsightly appearance, not to mention helping the tarnishing process to start.

I am a marine technician who has installed hundreds if not thousands of antenna's over the years, and I have always been disappointed that a beautiful hi tech antenna is mounted to a magnificent piece of marine architecture with such an antiquated embodiment.

The prior technology involves drilling at least eight holes through the surface of the vessel in question, four for the antenna mount itself, one for the cable to pass through at the side of the antenna mount, and another three for the bushing to conceal the hole for the cable, all these holes sealed with chalk, and many that spring leaks, often damaging the internal surfaces of the boat.

Also the screws that hold this apparatus in position often come loose with age and vibration, especially in fiberglass boats, causing even greater leaks and the loss of expensive antennas under way, which is a hazard in itself because of lost communication to shore.

This would be virtually impossible with existing technology because the antenna cabling is permanently attached through the boat.

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