Drag reduction kit for radome structure

Abstract

This disclosure relates to antenna assembly design for reducing wind load on base station antennas. The disclosure proposes an antenna assembly, comprising: a base station antenna, a radome housing the base station antenna, and an inflatable wind reduction structure configured to attach to the radome, wherein the inflatable wind reduction structure is configured to reduce a drag coefficient on the base station antenna when subjected to airflow when it is inflated.

Description

[0001] DRAG REDUCTION KIT FOR RADOME STRUCTURE

[0002] TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] The present disclosure relates to the field of telecommunications and to the structural design of base station antennas used in cellular networks. It encompasses the technical areas of aerodynamics, materials engineering, and mechanical design as applied to the development and optimization of antennas for improved performance under high wind load conditions.

[0004] BACKGROUND

[0005] In the realm of wireless communication, cellular networks are fundamental in facilitating the seamless connectivity of mobile devices such as smartphones. A critical component of these networks is the base station antenna, which has been traditionally designed to meet the demands of wide deployment across various geographic terrains and climatic conditions by communication operators globally.

[0006] A predominant issue that can arise with the implementation of such antennas is the wind load effect. The force exerted by the wind on the antennas significantly influences the cost factors for operators, affecting both capital expenditures (CAPEX) and operating expenses (OPEX). High wind loads necessitate the use of robust and hefty support structures, which in turn, can elevate the financial outlay for installing new sites. Moreover, upgrading from legacy antennas to new models that accommodate a broader range of bands can introduce additional challenges due to the increased size and therefore wind load. This increase in wind load usually requires the existing supporting pole to be replaced, which can add substantial costs to site upgrades.

[0007] The wind load on antennas is influenced by numerous variables, including natural factors like wind speed, direction, air density, altitude, and local wind distribution; site-specific factors such as local shading, ground elevation, and antenna arrangement; and antenna-specific factors including the area exposed to the wind, shape, and surface characteristics of the antenna housing (Radome), as well as its interaction with the support pole. Existing solutions to address the wind load problem revolve around optimization of the Radome shape, but seem limited by their static, unchangeable forms. This may result in a suboptimal reduction of wind load, especially for large antennas where a significant increase in depth is necessary to optimize the drag coefficient, impacting both the visual profile and transportation logistics.

[0008] SUMMARY

[0009] In view of the above-mentioned, the present disclosure address the limitations of prior art by proposing an assembly design that allows for an optimized aerodynamic profile without the concomitant increase in depth and transportation volume. One objective of this disclosure is to improve the drag coefficient. Another objective is to separate functions for sealing, impact protection, and drag reduction in at least two parts or assemblies.

[0010] These and other objectives are achieved by the solutions of this disclosure as provided in the independent claims. Advantageous implementations are further defined in the dependent claims.

[0011] A first aspect of the disclosure provides an antenna assembly, which comprises a base station antenna, a radome housing the base station antenna, and an inflatable wind reduction structure configured to attach to the radome, wherein the inflatable wind reduction structure is configured to reduce a drag coefficient on the base station antenna when subjected to airflow.

[0012] This disclosure proposes an antenna assembly at the mast or on the side of a building, to reduce the drag coefficient of base station antennas by changing the outer shape of the base station antennas. With the proposed inflatable assembly, the drag coefficient of base station antennas is reduced, while the whole structure is sufficiently stiff to sustain heavy wind load. In additition, a relatively small shape of the inflatable assembly is provided which eases transportation.

[0013] In an implementation form of the first aspect, the inflatable wind reduction structure comprises a front plate, wherein the front plate is movable from a first position, in which the front plate is substantially in alignment with the radome, to a second position, in which the front plate is held away from the radome, wherein the front plate is configured to stay in the second position when the inflatable wind reduction structure is inflated. When the front plate is in the first position, the inflatable wind reduction structure is not inflated, and when the front plate is in the second position, the inflatable wind reduction structure is inflated.

[0014] In an implementation form of the first aspect, the inflatable wind reduction structure further comprises a support structure, configured to move the front plate between the first and second positions and to maintain the front plate in the second position when the inflatable wind reduction structure is inflated. The support structure holds a pressure from the inside that is equal to or bigger than the pressure produced by the wind. It must be made of a high-frequency (HF) transparent material, such as polymers or silicon. The material for the support structure must allow high-frequency signals to pass through without significant attenuation or distortion. Materials that are HF transparent do not interfere with the transmission or reception of radio waves.

[0015] In an implementation form of the first aspect, the support structure comprises a pusher, configured to engage with and support the front plate in the second position. Possibly, a compression spring may provide the necessary force to enable the pusher to extend the front plate forward.

[0016] In an implementation form of the first aspect, the inflatable wind reduction structure further comprises one or more side plates, each configured to connect to the radome and the front plate. Side plates may be flat and hinged to the radome and the front plate. This arrangement allows the plates to pivot smoothly from a folded to an unfolded position, enhancing the assembly’s wind resistance while maintaining a low-profile design when not in use.

[0017] In an implementation form of the first aspect, each side plate comprises a plurality of interconnected segments, and hinge mechanisms connecting adjacent segments, enabling pivotal movement of the segments relative to one another. Optionally, the side plate may be designed to conform around rounded corners of the assembly, optimizing aerodynamic efficiency and structural adaptability to wind pressures. Possibly, the rounded corner of the side plate has a larger comer radius. That is, the corner has a smooth, gradual curve, which is beneficial because it leads to lower drag. This segmented design allows the plates to articulate smoothly around the assembly's contours, providing a tailored fit and enhanced resistance to aerodynamic forces. In an implementation form of the first aspect, the support structure further comprises an air pump, configured to exert an outward force on the front plate to move it to the second position. Optionally, the inflatable wind reduction structure may be inflated using a pneumatic approach. Possibly, the air pump may be controlled by a microcontroller, to adjust internal pressure, and inflate the structure to meet varying wind pressures effectively.

[0018] In an implementation form of the first aspect, the inflatable wind reduction structure further comprises an elastic foil configured to connect to the radome and the front plate, and support the front plate in the second position when the elastic foil is inflated by the air pump. The elastic foil is typically made from a durable, weather-resistant material that can withstand exposure to various environmental conditions such as UV rays, rain, wind, and temperature extremes. Common materials include reinforced polymer composites, fiberglass, or specialized synthetic fabrics that are designed to be minimally reactive with electromagnetic signals. The elastic foil might include aerodynamic features such as smoothed edges or a streamlined profile to reduce wind resistance and prevent it from being dislodged or damaged.

[0019] In an implementation form of the first aspect, the support structure further comprises an air reservoir, configured to release gas into an internal space between the radome and the front plate formed when the inflatable wind reduction structure is inflated. This feature is designed as a safety measure for extreme wind conditions. It utilizes a fast-acting gas release mechanism, similar to an airbag system, to quickly inflate the front plate, thereby providing immediate reinforcement to the structure.

[0020] All modules, elements, units, and means described in the present application could be implemented in the software or hardware elements or any kind of combination thereof. All steps that are performed by the various entities described in the present application as well as the functionalities described to be performed by the various entities are intended to mean that the respective extender module is adapted to or configured to perform the respective steps and functionalities. Even if, in the following description of specific embodiments, a specific functionality or step to be performed by external entities is not reflected in the description of a specific detailed element of that extender module that performs that specific step or functionality, it should be clear for a skilled person that these methods and functionalities can be implemented in respective software or hardware elements or any kind of combination thereof. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0021] The above-described aspects and implementation forms will be explained in the following description of specific embodiments in relation to the enclosed drawings, in which

[0022] FIG. 1 shows an antenna assembly;

[0023] FIG. 2 shows an antenna assembly providing adjustable plates;

[0024] FIG. 3 shows an antenna assembly providing mechanically flexible side plates;

[0025] FIG. 4 shows an antenna assembly providing an air pump; and

[0026] FIG. 5 shows an antenna assembly providing an air reservoir.

[0027] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0028] Illustrative embodiments of an antenna assembly for reducing wind load are described with reference to the figures. Although this description provides a detailed example of possible implementations, it should be noted that the details are intended to be exemplary and in no way limit the scope of the application.

[0029] An embodiment / example may refer to other embodiments / examples. For example, any description including but not limited to terminology, element, process, explanation, and / or technical advantage mentioned in one embodiment / example is applicable to the other embodiments / examples. The same elements are labeled with the same reference signs and may function similarly or likewise.

[0030] FIG. 1 illustrates an antenna assembly 1 for reducing wind load on a base station antenna 10, according to an embodiment of the disclosure. The antenna assembly 1 comprises the base station antenna 10, a radome 20 housing the base station antenna 10, and an inflatable wind reduction structure 30 configured to attach to the radome 20. The inflatable wind reduction structure 30 is configured to reduce a drag coefficient on the base station antenna 10 when subjected to airflow when it is inflated. FIG. 1(a) shows the antenna assembly 1 before it is inflated. FIG. 1(b) shows the antenna assembly 1 when it is inflated.

[0031] Optionally, as shown in FIG. 1(b), the inflatable wind reduction structure 30 may comprise a front plate 31. The front plate 31 is movable from a first position, in which the front plate 31 is substantially in alignment with the radome 20, to a second position, in which the front plate 31 is held away from the radome 20, wherein the front plate 31 is configured to stay in the second position when the inflatable wind reduction structure 30 is inflated.

[0032] When the front plate 31 is in the first position, the inflatable wind reduction structure 30 is not inflated, and when the front plate 31 is in the second position, the inflatable wind reduction structure 30 is inflated.

[0033] Optionally, the inflatable wind reduction structure 30 may further comprise a support structure 32. The support structure 32 is configured to move the front plate 31 between the first and second positions and to maintain the front plate 31 in the second position when the inflatable wind reduction structure 30 is inflated.

[0034] It may be understood that the support structure holds a pressure from the inside that is equal to or greater than the pressure produced by the wind. It must be made of an HF transparent material, such as polymers or silicon. It may be understood that the material for the support structure must allow high-frequency signals to pass through without significant attenuation or distortion. Materials that are HF transparent do not interfere with the transmission or reception of radio waves.

[0035] The radome 20 usually has a sealed structure to protect the base station antenna 10 from environmental and mechanical damage such as wind, rain, ice, and debris. Therefore, the proposed antenna assembly 1, namely the inflatable wind reduction structure 30, does not need to be watertight to protect the antenna 10 from environmental as the antenna already provides a sealed structure. In cases where the radome does not provide a sealed structure an according sealing should be provided for the antenna assembly 1, e.g. the inflatable wind reduction structure 30. In addition, the material for the inflatable wind reduction structure 30 provides transparency to radio waves to prevent interference with the antenna’s operation.

[0036] FIG. 2 to FIG. 5 show embodiments of the antenna assembly 1 according to this disclosure.

[0037] The embodiments provide an antenna assembly 1 with adjustable plates designed to dynamically respond to wind load, enhancing structural stability through inflation and stiffening mechanisms. This innovative approach allows for variable adaptation to wind conditions without requiring a fully air-tight configuration.

[0038] As shown in FIG. 2, the antenna assembly 1 incorporates a front plate 31 (also called frontal plate) that can be pushed forward by a pusher 321, driven by a spring. FIG. 2(a) shows the antenna assembly 1 before it is inflated. FIG. 2(b) shows the antenna assembly 1 when it is inflated. It may be understood that in this embodiment, the support structure 32 comprises the pusher 321, which is configured to engage with and support the front plate 31 in the second position, i.e., the inflated position.

[0039] This deployment enables the front plate 31 to extend outward dynamically in response to mechanical activation or wind detection.

[0040] It should be noted that although in FIG. 2 to FIG. 5, the inflatable wind reduction structure 30 might appear to be attached to antenna 10, it is actually attached to the radome 20 housing of the base station antenna 10. The base station antenna 10 is sealed in the radome 20 to be protected from environmental influences.

[0041] The inflatable wind reduction structure 30 further comprises one or more side plates 33, each configured to connect to the radome 20 and the front plate 31. Side plates 33 are flat and hinged to the antenna 10 (namely the radome 20) and the front plate 31. This arrangement allows the plates to pivot smoothly from a folded to an unfolded position, enhancing the assembly’s wind resistance while maintaining a low-profile design when not in use.

[0042] The plates can be inflated or extended to provide additional surface area and structural support against wind loads. Hinges are utilized to ensure a seamless transition of the side plates from their resting to active positions. The incorporation of a locking mechanism, e.g. self-locking mechanism ensures that the plates remain securely in position once deployed.

[0043] Components of the antenna assembly 1 in this embodiment may include: a spring providing a compression spring that provides the necessary force to extend the front plate 31 forward; an actuator facilitating the mechanical extension and retraction of the side plates 33; a locking mechanism engaging once the plates are fully extended to maintain the structure's integrity under load; mechanical parts providing hinges and adjustable joints that allow for the flexible configuration of the side plates; a microcontroller and wind measurement device, whereas these electronic components are integrated to automatically control the deployment of the plates based on real-time wind speed and direction data.

[0044] FIG. 3 shows a structure of the antenna assembly 1 similar to the embodiment of FIG. 2. FIG. 3(a) shows the antenna assembly 1 before it is inflated. FIG. 3(b) shows the antenna assembly 1 when it is inflated. The antenna assembly 1 is distinguished by its mechanically flexible side plates 33, designed to conform around rounded corners of the assembly. This may further improve aerodynamic efficiency and structural adaptability to wind pressures.

[0045] Each side plate 33 comprises a plurality of interconnected segments 331, and hinge mechanisms 332 connecting adjacent segments 331, enabling pivotal movement of the segments relative to one another. This segmented design allows the plates to articulate smoothly around the assembly's contours, providing a tailored fit and enhanced resistance to aerodynamic forces.

[0046] This embodiment utilizes advanced hinge mechanisms between adjacent segments 331, enabling pivotal movement of the segments relative to one another. These hinges 332 are specifically engineered to maintain both flexibility and strength, allowing the side plates 33 to adjust dynamically to wind forces while ensuring robust structural integrity.

[0047] Segmented fixation points may be arranged to maximize the mechanical leverage and stability of each segment 331 when deployed, ensuring that the inflatable wind reduction 30 maintains its integrity even under high wind loads.

[0048] The components used in this antenna assembly are similar to the embodiment of FIG. 2. Unlike the mechanical expansion in the embodiments shown in FIG. 2 and FIG. 3, FIG. 4 uses a pneumatic approach to move the front plate 31 and inflate the inflatable wind reduction structure 30. Optionally, the support structure 32 further comprises an air pump 322, configured to exert an outward force on the front plate 31 to move it to the second position. FIG. 4(a) shows the antenna assembly 1 before it is inflated. FIG. 4(b) shows the antenna assembly 1 when it is inflated.

[0049] The air pump 322 may be controlled by a microcontroller, to adjust internal pressure, and inflate the structure to meet varying wind pressures effectively.

[0050] The inflatable wind reduction structure 30 further comprises an elastic foil 34 configured to connect to the radome 20 and the front plate 31, and support the front plate 31 in the second position when the elastic foil 34 is inflated by the air pump 322. Elastic foils 34 are incorporated at the corners of the plates to provide a flexible, airtight seal and enhance the aerodynamic properties of the assembly.

[0051] The elastic foil 34 is made from a durable, weather-resistant material that can withstand exposure to various environmental conditions such as UV rays, rain, wind, and temperature extremes. Common materials include reinforced polymer composites, fiberglass, or specialized synthetic fabrics that are designed to be minimally reactive with electromagnetic signals. The elastic foil 34 might include aerodynamic features such as smoothed edges or a streamlined profile to reduce wind resistance and prevent it from being dislodged or damaged.

[0052] Components of the antenna assembly 1 in this embodiment may include: an air pump and battery for supply and management of the airflow needed for inflation, where the battery ensures that the device can operate independently of external power sources; an elastic foil designed to withstand repeated inflation and deflation cycles, providing durability and maintaining performance over time; and a locking mechanism securing the plates in their expanded position, similar to the embodiments described above, to ensure stability once the desired configuration is achieved.

[0053] FIG. 5 shows another antenna assembly 1 according to an embodiment of this disclosure. This design may be used in addition to the antenna assembly 1 shown in FIG. 4. FIG. 5(a) shows the antenna assembly 1 before it is inflated. FIG. 5(b) shows the antenna assembly 1 when it is inflated. In this embodiment, the support structure 32 may further comprise an air reservoir 323. The air reservoir 323 is configured to release gas into an internal space between the radome 20 and the front plate 31 formed when the inflatable wind reduction structure 30 is inflated. This feature is designed as a safety measure for extreme wind conditions. It utilizes a fast-acting gas release mechanism, similar to an airbag system, to quickly inflate the front plate 31, thereby providing immediate reinforcement to the structure.

[0054] Possibly, this rapid inflate system can be activated automatically when sensors detect wind loads exceeding predetermined safety thresholds.

[0055] Components of the antenna assembly 1 in this embodiment may include: an air reservoir storing the high-pressure gas used for emergency inflation; a trigger mechanism electronically controlled based on input from the wind measurement device (sensors), ensuring timely activation under critical conditions.

[0056] To summarize, embodiments of the present disclosure introduce antenna assemblies that due to construction with the possibility to change their shapes at the mast or on the side of a building to reduce transportation volume and drag coefficient. The described embodiments offer the significant advantage of adaptability to varying wind conditions without the need for a completely sealed, rigid structure. This adaptability is achieved through mechanical and pneumatic means, ensuring reliability even during power outages.

[0057] The present disclosure has been described in conjunction with various embodiments as examples as well as implementations. However, other variations can be understood and effected by those persons skilled in the art and practicing the claimed matter, from the studies of the drawings, this disclosure, and the independent claims. In the claims as well as in the description the word “comprising” does not exclude other elements or steps and the indefinite article “a” or “an” does not exclude a plurality. A single element or other unit may fulfill the functions of several entities or items recited in the claims. The mere fact that certain measures are recited in the mutual different dependent claims does not indicate that a combination of these measures cannot be used in an advantageous implementation.

Claims

CLAIMS1. An antenna assembly (1), comprising: a base station antenna (10), a radome (20) housing the base station antenna (10), and an inflatable wind reduction structure (30) configured to attach to the radome (20), wherein the inflatable wind reduction structure (30) is configured to reduce a drag coefficient on the base station antenna (10) when subjected to airflow.

2. The antenna assembly (1) according to claim 1, wherein the inflatable wind reduction structure (30) comprises a front plate (31), wherein the front plate (31) is movable from a first position, in which the front plate (31) is substantially in alignment with the radome (20), to a second position, in which the front plate (31) is held away from the radome (20), wherein the front plate (31) is configured to stay in the second position when the inflatable wind reduction structure (30) is inflated.

3. The antenna assembly (1) according to claim 2, wherein the inflatable wind reduction structure (30) further comprises a support structure (32), configured to move the front plate (31) between the first and second positions and to maintain the front plate (31) in the second position when the inflatable wind reduction structure (30) is inflated.

4. The antenna assembly (1) according to claim 3, wherein the support structure (32) comprises a pusher (321), configured to engage with and support the front plate (31) in the second position.

5. The antenna assembly (1) according to claim 4, wherein the inflatable wind reduction structure (30) further comprises one or more side plates (33), each configured to connect to the radome (20) and the front plate (31).

6. The antenna assembly (1) according to claim 5, wherein each side plate (33) comprises a plurality of interconnected segments (331), and hinge mechanisms (332) connecting adjacent segments (331), enabling pivotal movement of the segments relative to one another.

7. The antenna assembly (1) according to claim 3, wherein the support structure (32) further comprises an air pump (322), configured to exert an outward force on the front plate (31) to move it to the second position.

8. The antenna assembly (1) according to claim 7, wherein the inflatable wind reduction structure (30) further comprises an elastic foil (34) configured to connect to the radome (20) and the front plate (31), and support the front plate (31) in the second position when the elastic foil (34) is inflated by the air pump (322).

9. The antenna assembly (1) according to claim 7, wherein the support structure (32) further comprises an air reservoir (323), configured to release gas into an internal space between the radome (20) and the front plate (31) formed when the inflatable wind reduction structure (30) is inflated.

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