Satellite antenna mounting system for high-wind environments

Abstract

A modular satellite antenna mounting system is described, suitable for installations exposed to high-wind or cyclonic conditions. The system includes a mount configured to engage a mounting profile on the underside of a satellite antenna, a reinforcement plate, and a mounting plate arranged in stacked relation. The reinforcement plate has a central planar portion positioned flat between the outer surface of the mount and the mounting plate, and a convex profile extending outwardly to define straight outer edges. The outer edges are configured to bear flat against corresponding planar regions of the antenna's underside, thereby extending the contact interface beyond the central mounting region. The modular configuration allows the reinforcement plate to be optionally included for installations requiring additional reinforcement while permitting straightforward assembly and adaptation to different environmental conditions.

Description

Satellite Antenna Mounting System for High-Wind EnvironmentsField of the Invention

[0001] The field of the invention relates to mounting systems for satellite antennas, specifically to systems designed to secure satellite antennas in high-wind environments, including areas subject to cyclonic conditions. The invention addresses methods and structures that enhance the stability and resilience of antenna mounts, reducing the risk of detachment or structural failure due to wind loading forces.Background of the Invention

[0002] Satellite antennas installed on rooftops or other exposed outdoor locations are routinely subjected to severe wind conditions. In regions prone to hurricanes and cyclones, these installations are particularly at risk of structural damage or displacement caused by extreme and rapidly changing wind loads. Such wind events can generate high uplift forces, lateral shear stresses, and torsional moments that challenge the structural integrity of both the antenna and its mounting system.

[0003] Various efforts have been made to reinforce satellite antenna mounts. For instance, CN 209626402 II (Sichuan Video Electronic Co., Ltd., 12 November 2019) discloses a mounting system with an integral curved arc plate designed to strengthen the antenna’s connection point. Similarly, WO 2016 / 089996 A1 (CommScope Technologies LLC, 9 June 2016) teaches a bracket structure having antenna-facing curved sections that distribute mechanical loads through a single-piece assembly. US 2016 / 0036123 A1 (Band Communications LLC, 4 February 2016) describes a circular reinforcement surrounding a central threaded connector intended to increase the bearing area between the antenna and its support.

[0004] While these designs improve the local strength of the mount, they share notable limitations. Because each reinforcement structure is formed integrally with the mount, the resulting assembly is not modular and must be manufactured or replaced as a single component. This increases cost and complexity in both fabrication and maintenance. In addition, the rigid, integral geometry of these mountslimits their capacity to distribute omnidirectional wind shear forces across the antenna’s underside, confining most of the loading to the central connection point. As a result, stress concentrations may develop around the fixed mounting region, increasing the likelihood of deformation or failure under hurricane-grade winds.

[0005] The assembly of these integral systems can also be cumbersome, often requiring custom tooling and full disassembly of the antenna to perform replacement or repair. Their inability to adapt to different antenna geometries further restricts their use in modern modular installations, where flexible mounting configurations are preferred.

[0006] The issue of securing satellite antennas in these high-wind scenarios remains a key concern for installations in vulnerable regions. The challenges posed by wind loading necessitate robust mounting solutions capable of maintaining structural integrity under extreme conditions, thereby reducing the risk of displacement and ensuring reliable performance of satellite antennas in diverse weather environments, including cyclone-affected areas.

[0007] It is to be understood that, if any prior art information is referred to herein, such reference does not constitute an admission that the information forms part of the common general knowledge in the art, in Australia or any other country.Summary of the Disclosure

[0008] The present disclosure relates to a satellite antenna mounting system configured as a modular assembly designed to improve the structural integrity of rooftop and outdoor antenna installations exposed to high-wind and cyclonic environments. The system comprises a mount, a reinforcement plate, and a mounting plate arranged in a layered configuration to form a stable mechanical interface between the antenna and its supporting structure.

[0009] The mount is configured to engage a mounting profile defined by the undersurface of the antenna, providing a secure mechanical fit that positions the antenna in its intended orientation. The reinforcement plate includes a central planar portion positioned flat between the outer surface of the mount and the mounting plate, creating a stable interface across which loads are transmitted evenly.

[0010] The reinforcement plate defines a convex profile that extends outwardly from the central planar portion with straight outer edges, configured so that the reinforcement plate can fit over the mount so that these outer edges bear flat against corresponding planar surfaces on the underside of the antenna. The arrangement allows the reinforcement plate to spread loads laterally across a broad region of the antenna’s underside, maintaining a balanced interface around the central attachment zone. The straight outer edges transmit the distributed loads without requiring any attachment fastener apertures at those regions, preserving the smooth surface of the antenna and reducing localised stress points.

[0011] The system is modular and may be assembled with or without the reinforcement plate, depending on the environmental conditions in which the antenna is installed. For standard installations, the antenna can be mounted using only the mount and mounting plate, whereas in high-wind or cyclone-prone areas, the reinforcement plate can be added to increase the contact area and improve load distribution. The separate components enable quick assembly and straightforward replacement without the need for specialised tools, while the outer edges of the reinforcement plate engage the underside of the antenna in a flat, continuous manner that requires no additional fastening apertures or through-holes in the antenna surface.

[0012] This configuration provides a mechanically efficient mounting arrangement that maintains strong foundational support and evenly distributed surface engagement between the antenna and its support structure, offering flexibility and reliability across a wide range of installation environments.

[0013] In some embodiments, the reinforcement plate includes a front portion and opposed side portions that extend at an angle from the central planar portion to define the convex profile. The side portions may each terminate in respective straight outer edges arranged to align with and bear against flat regions of the antenna’s underside, allowing for an expanded interface between the plate and the antenna without the need for additional apertures or fastening points.

[0014] In another implementation, the front and side portions of the reinforcement plate are generally planar and meet the central planar portion along straight junctions. This geometry can be produced efficiently through sheet-forming techniques and yields a structurally stiff component capable of maintaining its shape even when subject to cyclic loading.

[0015] The flat outer surface of the mount may be dimensioned to correspond closely with the central planar portion of the reinforcement plate. Such alignment encourages consistent contact across the joint, avoiding point loading and ensuring uniform distribution of compressive forces when the assembly is fastened together.

[0016] In certain forms, the mount includes angled side surfaces positioned to correspond with the inner faces of the side portions of the reinforcement plate. This complementary fit assists in locating the reinforcement plate accurately during assembly and reduces movement between the components when exposed to fluctuating wind pressure.

[0017] The mount may incorporate one or more tab fastener apertures arranged to receive tab fasteners that engage with tab recesses formed in the mounting profile of the antenna. The use of tab fasteners provides a positive mechanical connection that secures the mount within the antenna’s recess while maintaining a low overall profile. These apertures can be positioned symmetrically about the mount to balance clamping forces during installation.

[0018] In some configurations, the tab fastener apertures are countersunk, enabling the fastener heads to sit below the flat outer surface of the mount. A recessed arrangement of this kind produces a smooth mating surface for the reinforcement plate to rest against and eliminates potential interference between the fasteners and the adjoining plate.

[0019] The reinforcement plate may include apertures aligned with those of the mount so that the tab fasteners can be inserted or removed while the plate remains in position. This simplifies maintenance procedures and allows the assembly to be adjusted or replaced without disassembling the entire structure.

[0020] In another example, the mount defines an inner contact face incorporating a cableway that extends along its front edge for the passage of an antenna cable. The cableway provides a controlled path through which cabling can be routed, reducing the risk of abrasion or compression at the mounting interface.

[0021] The reinforcement plate may optionally include a central void aligned with the cableway to maintain an unobstructed cable path through the assembly. The alignment of these features allows cables to be neatly routed through the mounting structure, ensuring compatibility with concealed or internally routed wiring systems.

[0022] In further arrangements, the reinforcement plate and mount may each include aligned mounting fastener apertures configured to receive fasteners extending through both components and into the mounting plate. This configuration ensures that the structural load is transmitted through the entire assembly, producing a uniform clamping effect when the components are tightened together.

[0023] The mounting plate can include a tubular adapter adapted for insertion into the open end of a mounting pole or similar support. The adapter may be provided with frictional ribs, a taper, or other engagement features to hold the system securely in place and maintain the antenna’s orientation once installed.

[0024] The reinforcement plate may also be furnished with side fastener apertures that align with corresponding apertures in the mount. Fasteners inserted through these openings provide supplementary lateral reinforcement and maintain positional stability under dynamic wind conditions.

[0025] In some forms, the straight outer edges of the reinforcement plate are arranged parallel to a rear edge of the plate, producing a uniform profile that complements the geometry of the antenna’s underside. The rear edge may be shaped or angled slightly to discourage the accumulation of rainwater or debris when the system is exposed to the elements.

[0026] The reinforcement plate is preferably manufactured from a corrosion-resistant metal such as aluminium or stainless steel, typically having a thickness of around three millimetres. This material and dimensional selection achieves a balancebetween stiffness, weight, and ease of fabrication, allowing the plate to retain its structural integrity while conforming closely to the mount and antenna surfaces.

[0027] Other aspects of the invention are also disclosed.Brief Description of the Drawings

[0028] Notwithstanding any other forms which may fall within the scope of the present invention, preferred embodiments of the disclosure will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

[0029] Figure 1 shows a perspective view of a mounting system for a satellite antenna;

[0030] Figure 2 shows a top perspective view of the mounting system;

[0031] Figure 3 shows a bottom perspective view of the mounting system;

[0032] Figure 4 shows a bottom perspective view of a mount of the system;

[0033] Figure 5 shows a bottom perspective view of a reinforcement plate of the system; and

[0034] Figure 6 shows a bottom perspective view of a mountain pole adapter of the system.Description of Embodiments

[0035] Referring to Figures 1 to 6, a satellite antenna mounting system 100 is illustrated, configured as a modular assembly for supporting a satellite antenna 101 , such as a Starlink™ Gen 3 V4 satellite dish, in an elevated installation environment such as a rooftop or wall-mounted position. The system 100 is designed to provide a secure mechanical interface between the antenna 101 and a structural support, while maintaining geometric stability under environmental loading.

[0036] The modular assembly comprises three primary structural components: a mount 105, a reinforcement plate 109, and a mounting plate 124. These components are arranged in series to form a layered coupling between the mounting profile of the antenna 101 and the upper end of a mounting pole 103 or equivalent support structure.

[0037] The mount 105 is configured to engage a mounting profile defined by the undersurface of the antenna 101. In the illustrated embodiment, the mounting profileincludes a recess of truncated triangular cross-section formed in the antenna’s underside, within which the mount 105 is received. The mount 105 has a corresponding shape enabling complementary engagement with this recess, thereby providing mechanical interlock and positional stability. The mount 105 is preferably formed from a corrosion-resistant metal such as aluminium or stainless steel and may be machined or cast as a single monolithic component. This configuration allows the mount to resist deformation under compressive and torsional loading, ensuring alignment with the antenna 101 is maintained during installation and in service.

[0038] Positioned above the mount 105 is the reinforcement plate 109, which is configured to cooperate both with the mount and with the antenna’s underside. The reinforcement plate 109 defines a central planar portion 110 arranged to sit flat between a corresponding flat outer surface 113 of the mount 105 and the mounting plate 124 positioned above. In this arrangement, the central planar portion 110 forms an intermediate interface between the mount and the mounting plate, providing a uniform contact plane that assists in distributing clamping forces transmitted through the fasteners.

[0039] The reinforcement plate 109 further defines a convex profile extending outwardly from the central planar portion 110 to a set of straight outer edges 116. As shown most clearly in Figures 2 and 3, the convex configuration enables the reinforcement plate 109 to fit over the upper geometry of the mount 105. The straight outer edges 116 of the reinforcement plate 109 are arranged to contact corresponding planar surfaces 117 formed on the underside of the antenna 101 when the assembly is secured in place. The geometry of the reinforcement plate 109 thus ensures that it interfaces simultaneously with both the mount 105 and the antenna 101 across multiple planes, contributing to the rigidity and geometric integrity of the overall assembly. In this way, the reinforcement plate 109 is able to distribute load forces acting on the antenna 101 across a wide region surrounding the central mounting profile, extending the effective bearing area beyond the immediate attachment zone. The outer edges 116 bear flat against the planar surfaces 117 in surrounding directions, enabling omnidirectional spreading of the transmitted loads through theantenna structure. This broader engagement area may not include any fasteners, nor are such fasteners necessary, as the flat bearing contact of the edges 116 provides stable surface engagement and effective lateral load transfer without additional attachments.

[0040] The mounting plate 124 is located above the reinforcement plate 109 and provides an interface for connection to a supporting structure such as a galvanised steel pole 103, a flexi mount, or another base assembly. The mounting plate 124 is generally planar, with through-apertures arranged to align with corresponding apertures in the reinforcement plate 109 and the mount 105 for receipt of fasteners. This arrangement enables the three components to be secured together as a single integrated unit while still permitting modular replacement or reconfiguration when required.

[0041] In use, the combination of the mount 105, reinforcement plate 109, and mounting plate 124 provides a robust, stackable interface that maintains accurate alignment of the antenna 101 with its mounting profile. The flat engagement surfaces between the components help ensure consistent contact pressure across the interface zones, thereby reducing localised stress concentrations that might otherwise occur in conventional single-piece mountings. The convex configuration of the reinforcement plate also contributes to uniform distribution of load paths within the assembly and ensures close conformity with the antenna’s underside geometry.

[0042] The modular nature of the assembly allows for convenient replacement or upgrading of individual components, while the metallic construction provides high resistance to environmental effects such as ultraviolet exposure, corrosion, and temperature variation.

[0043] In some preferred embodiments the reinforcement plate 109 includes a front portion 111 and a pair of side portions 112 that are angled relative to the central planar portion 110 so as to define the overall convex profile of the plate. The convex form enables the reinforcement plate to conform closely to the contour of the mount 105 and the underside of the satellite antenna 101. The front portion 111 and the side portions 112 extend outwardly and upwardly from the central planar portion 110 and,in the illustrated embodiment, are disposed symmetrically about a central axis of the plate.

[0044] The side portions 112 preferably define respective straight outer edges 116 that form the peripheral boundary of the reinforcement plate 109. These outer edges 116 are dimensioned to correspond with planar surfaces 117 of the underside of the antenna 101 so that, upon assembly, a flat interface is established along each edge. Such alignment of the edges and underside surfaces ensures that the reinforcement plate 109 sits evenly and securely against the antenna 101 once installed. In some embodiments, a flexible adhesive bead may optionally be applied along these edges to improve surface conformity and damp small relative movements between the plate and the antenna under environmental loading.

[0045] The convex profile is advantageous in that it allows the reinforcement plate 109 to extend across the outer surfaces of the mount 105 while providing clearance for the underlying geometry and any mounting fasteners. The angled front portion 111 and the side portions 112 may be planar and meet the central planar portion 110 along straight junctions, as shown in Figure 5, although other curvature transitions may be employed depending on material selection and manufacturing method. The planar facets provide strength through geometric stiffness and can be produced efficiently by press forming or bending from a flat metal sheet such as 3 mm aluminium.

[0046] In preferred constructions, the convex geometry is designed so that the plate 109 effectively forms a shallow shell structure over the mount 105, which contributes to the overall rigidity of the modular assembly without adding substantial weight. The front portion 111 is typically oriented perpendicular or near-perpendicular to the antenna’s forward axis, and the side portions 112 extend at corresponding angles to accommodate the antenna’s contour.

[0047] This arrangement allows the reinforcement plate 109 to be fitted neatly over the mount 105 with minimal clearance tolerance, ensuring a close mating fit between the respective surfaces. The plate 109 may be secured in position using commonmechanical fasteners or other attachment means as later described with reference to subsequent claims.

[0048] Thus, the reinforcement plate 109, in combination with its front portion 111 , side portions 112, and straight outer edges 116, provides a robust and geometrically stable interface that can be fabricated and installed using conventional manufacturing and assembly processes while maintaining a high degree of dimensional accuracy.

[0049] In certain optional constructions, the flat outer surface 113 of the mount 105 is proportioned to correspond closely with the central planar portion 110 of the reinforcement plate 109. This geometric matching ensures that the plate can rest in full surface contact across the mounting interface, providing a stable and uniform engagement area between the two components. The dimensions of the flat outer surface 113 may be selected so that the periphery of the reinforcement plate 109 projects beyond the mount 105 to a defined extent, accommodating the convex form and allowing the side and front portions to taper smoothly toward the straight outer edges 116.

[0050] In some embodiments, the mount 105 is provided with angled side surfaces 114 positioned to correspond with the inner surfaces of the side portions 112 of the reinforcement plate 109. The relative angles of these surfaces may be formed to achieve a complementary fit, such that when the reinforcement plate 109 is positioned over the mount 105, the respective faces engage with minimal clearance. This arrangement allows the reinforcement plate to seat securely in its intended position, maintaining alignment and stability throughout the assembly process. The use of angled side surfaces also assists in transmitting loads between the mount 105 and the reinforcement plate 109 over an increased contact area rather than through discrete fastening points alone.

[0051] The mount 105 may be machined, die-cast, or otherwise formed to achieve the required precision of these mating angles. In practice, the included angle between each side surface 114 and the outer surface 113 can be varied depending on the geometry of the antenna profile, the required clearance for fasteners, or manufacturing tolerances. In optional versions, the interface between the mount 105and the side portions 112 of the reinforcement plate 109 can be provided with a thin gasket, bonding film, or anti-corrosive coating to enhance sealing and long-term environmental durability.

[0052] Collectively, the coextensive planar surfaces and complementary angled interfaces contribute to a mechanically consistent assembly in which the reinforcement plate 109 and mount 105 cooperate as a combined structural unit without introducing unwanted gaps or misalignment. These arrangements may be achieved using conventional fabrication techniques and allow the modular system 100 to be adapted to a wide range of antenna configurations and mounting conditions.

[0053] In preferred embodiments, the mount 105 includes a series of tab fastener apertures 118 positioned to correspond with tab recesses defined by the mounting profile on the underside of the satellite antenna 101. These apertures 118 are arranged such that fasteners can extend upwardly through the mount 105 to engage directly with the tab recesses, thereby anchoring the mount securely to the antenna. The use of tab fasteners in this configuration ensures that the mount remains firmly seated within the antenna’s recess, maintaining consistent alignment and resisting displacement even under variable loading.

[0054] The tab fastener apertures 118 are preferably distributed along the front and side regions of the mount 105, providing balanced retention at multiple points around its perimeter. The fasteners may include bolts, screws, or other threaded elements that interface with metal or polymer inserts embedded within the antenna’s mounting profile. In practice, the type of fastener selected may depend on the antenna’s housing material and the nature of the installation environment, with stainless steel or zinc-coated hardware being well suited to outdoor use.

[0055] In some embodiments, each tab fastener aperture 118 is countersunk so that the head of the corresponding fastener sits fully recessed within the mount 105. This configuration provides a flush upper surface across the flat outer surface 113 of the mount, preventing interference when the reinforcement plate 109 is later positioned over it. The countersunk recesses may be machined, pressed, or cast directly intothe mount during manufacture, and can accommodate either metric or imperial fastener standards.

[0056] Optionally, the reinforcement plate 109 may be provided with corresponding apertures aligned with the tab fastener apertures 118 of the mount 105. This alignment allows the tab fasteners to be installed or removed with the reinforcement plate 109 in place, which simplifies assembly and maintenance procedures. The apertures in the reinforcement plate may be of equal or slightly larger diameter to permit limited positional tolerance, accommodating small variations in fastener alignment while ensuring the reinforcement plate remains seated flush over the mount.

[0057] This cooperative arrangement between the mount 105, the reinforcement plate 109, and the tab fasteners ensures that the mechanical engagement between the antenna 101 and the modular assembly 100 is both secure and easily serviceable. The use of countersunk apertures and aligned holes minimises obstruction between adjoining components, allowing for a compact, low-profile installation that can be readily assembled using conventional hand tools.

[0058] In some embodiments, the mount 105 defines an inner contact face 119 which engages directly with the corresponding surface of the mounting profile on the underside of the antenna 101. Formed along the front edge 106 of this inner contact face 119 is a cableway 120 configured to accommodate the passage of a satellite signal cable. The cableway 120 provides a controlled path for routing the antenna cable from within the antenna housing toward the support structure below.

[0059] The cableway 120 may be shaped as a recessed channel or slot extending laterally across the mount’s front edge 106. Its cross-section can be semi-circular, rectangular, or tapered depending on the intended cable gauge. The provision of this defined channel ensures that the cable remains protected and supported at the interface between the antenna and the mounting system, avoiding pinching or strain when the system is assembled.

[0060] To complement the cableway 120, the reinforcement plate 109 optionally includes a central void 129 that aligns with the cableway once the components areassembled. The void 129 may be circular or oblong and dimensioned to permit free passage of the cable through the plate and into the space below. When the reinforcement plate 109 is positioned over the mount 105, the alignment of the void 129 and cableway 120 ensures an unobstructed cable path through the layered assembly. When assembled, the mount 105 may further define a corresponding central void 132 aligned with the central void 129 of the reinforcement plate to provide a continuous passage through the assembly.

[0061] This arrangement allows the antenna’s cable to pass cleanly through the mounting system without the need for external conduits or separate routing hardware. The opening may also facilitate the use of cable glands or compression fittings if environmental sealing is required. In some implementations, the mount and reinforcement plate may be provided with chamfered or rounded cableway edges to reduce abrasion during installation or service. In some embodiments, an additional rear cableway 131 may be provided at or adjacent to the rear edge 108 of the mount 105 to allow alternate routing of the antenna cable where downward or rearward exit from the assembly is preferred.

[0062] The integration of the cableway 120 and the aligned central void 129 thus ensures that electrical connections can be managed efficiently within the structure of the mounting system itself, maintaining a neat, enclosed appearance while preserving accessibility for maintenance and cable replacement.

[0063] In certain embodiments, the reinforcement plate 109 and the mount 105 define a series of aligned mounting fastener apertures 125. These apertures are positioned to allow mounting fasteners 126 to pass through the assembly for securing the mounting plate 124 to the mount 105. The fasteners 126 may include bolts, screws, or threaded rods, and are typically arranged symmetrically about the central planar portion 110 of the reinforcement plate. When tightened, the fasteners 126 compress the mounting plate 124, the reinforcement plate 109, and the mount 105 into a unified assembly, maintaining consistent contact between all interface surfaces.

[0064] The mounting plate 124 may serve as the uppermost element of a pole mount adapter 122 and provides an attachment interface for the supporting structure below,such as the mounting pole 103. In preferred embodiments, the mounting plate 124 includes a tubular adapter 123 extending downwardly or integrally formed with the plate. The adapter 123 is configured for insertion within the open upper end of the mounting pole 103, allowing the modular assembly 100 to be seated securely atop the pole. The adapter 123 may be provided with frictional ribs, a tapered section, or an interference fit to resist rotation and vertical displacement. This arrangement ensures that the antenna 101 remains oriented correctly once mounted.

[0065] In alternative embodiments, the reinforcement plate 109 may define side fastener apertures 128 aligned with corresponding side apertures formed in the mount 105. Side fasteners inserted through these apertures provide additional lateral reinforcement along the side portions 112 of the plate, further securing the assembly and maintaining dimensional consistency under varying load conditions. The optional use of side fasteners also allows for fine alignment adjustments during installation.

[0066] A front straight outer edge 116 of the reinforcement plate 109 may be arranged parallel to a rear edge 130 of the plate, producing a uniform geometric profile that aligns with the overall shape of the antenna’s underside. The rear edge 130 may be slightly elevated or curved to prevent accumulation of water and debris along the base of the antenna when installed in outdoor environments.

[0067] The reinforcement plate 109 is preferably fabricated from metal, such as aluminium or stainless steel, with a typical thickness of approximately 3 mm. This thickness provides adequate stiffness to maintain its convex shape while permitting limited elasticity to accommodate minor tolerances in assembly. The plate may be formed by stamping or bending from a single sheet and may be anodised or coated to improve corrosion resistance. The selection of material and surface treatment can be adjusted according to the installation environment, with marine-grade finishes being suitable for coastal or high-humidity conditions.

[0068] Collectively, the combination of aligned apertures, tubular adapter, and precision-formed reinforcement plate establishes a robust modular structure that maintains consistent dimensional relationships between the antenna 101 and the mounting pole 103, enabling secure installation and reliable long-term service.

[0069] A non-limiting example of installation and use of the satellite antenna mounting system 100 is as follows. To begin installation, the mount 105 is positioned within the corresponding mounting profile defined by the underside of the satellite antenna 101 . The mounting profile typically includes a recess or channel shaped to receive the mount 105, allowing the front edge 106 and side edges 107 of the mount to seat beneath complementary structural features of the antenna. Once positioned, tab fasteners are inserted through the tab fastener apertures 118 of the mount and tightened into the tab recesses of the antenna’s profile, thereby securing the mount 105 to the antenna 101. The countersunk arrangement of the apertures ensures that the fastener heads sit flush with the flat outer surface 113 of the mount.

[0070] Following attachment of the mount 105, the reinforcement plate 109 is fitted over it. The plate is oriented so that its central planar portion 110 lies flat against the outer surface 113 of the mount, while its side portions 112 and front portion 111 extend outwardly in a convex configuration. The straight outer edges 116 of the reinforcement plate are aligned with and brought into contact with the corresponding planar surfaces 117 of the antenna’s underside. The central void 129 of the reinforcement plate is aligned with the cableway 120 on the mount to allow for passage of the antenna cable.

[0071] If adhesive is employed, a continuous bead may be applied along the edges 116 of the reinforcement plate before seating, ensuring even distribution and secure adhesion to the antenna’s underside. The reinforcement plate 109 may then be held in position while the adhesive cures or while the remaining components are assembled.

[0072] The mounting plate 124 is then placed over the reinforcement plate 109. Mounting fasteners 126 are inserted through the aligned mounting fastener apertures 125 of the three components, clamping the mounting plate 124, reinforcement plate 109, and mount 105 into a unified stack. The mounting plate’s tubular adapter 123 is inserted into the open end of the galvanised mounting pole 103 or equivalent support structure. The frictional fit or ribbed surface of the adapter 123 resists rotation and withdrawal once installed.

[0073] In some optional arrangements, side fasteners may be inserted through aligned side fastener apertures 128 located along the angled side surfaces 114 of the mount and the corresponding regions of the reinforcement plate 109. These side fasteners provide additional lateral rigidity and can be adjusted during installation to achieve precise alignment of the antenna 101 relative to its intended orientation.

[0074] Once all fasteners are tightened, the antenna cable is routed through the cableway 120 and void 129, extending into the mounting pole 103 for connection to downstream equipment. The assembled system 100 forms a rigid and geometrically stable connection between the antenna 101 and the support structure, suitable for a range of roof-mounted or elevated installations.

[0075] In operation, the modular assembly provides a consistent, well-distributed interface between the antenna and its supporting mount. The interlocking relationship between the mount 105, reinforcement plate 109, and mounting plate 124 ensures that mechanical loads are shared across the entire interface. The system may be disassembled and reassembled as required for maintenance, replacement of individual parts, or re-orientation of the antenna.

[0076] The foregoing description, for purposes of explanation, used specific nomenclature to provide a thorough understanding of the invention. However, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that specific details are not required in order to practise the invention. Thus, the foregoing descriptions of specific embodiments of the invention are presented for purposes of illustration and description. They are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise forms disclosed as obviously many modifications and variations are possible in view of the above teachings. The embodiments were chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the invention and its practical applications, thereby enabling others skilled in the art to best utilize the invention and various embodiments with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated. It is intended that the following claims and their equivalents define the scope of the invention.

Claims

Claims1. A satellite antenna mounting system (100) comprising a modular assembly including: a mount (105) configured to engage a mounting profile defined by an undersurface of a satellite antenna (101) in use; a reinforcement plate (109); and a mounting plate (124); wherein the reinforcement plate (109) includes a central planar portion (110) attached flat between a flat outer surface (113) of the mount (105) and the mounting plate (124); and wherein the reinforcement plate (109) defines a convex profile having straight outer edges (116) such that the reinforcement plate (109) fits over the mount (105) with the straight outer edges (116) arranged to contact corresponding planar surfaces (117) of the underside of the satellite antenna (101).

2. The satellite antenna mounting system (100) of claim 1 , wherein the reinforcement plate (109) includes a front portion (111) and side portions (112) angled relative to the central planar portion (110) to define the convex profile, the side portions (112) defining respective straight outer edges (116).

3. The satellite antenna mounting system (100) of claim 2, wherein the front portion (111) and the side portions (112) are planar and meet along straight junctions.

4. The satellite antenna mounting system (100) of claim 1 , wherein the flat outer surface (113) of the mount (105) conforms in cross-sectional area to the central planar portion (110) of the reinforcement plate (109).

5. The satellite antenna mounting system (100) of claim 2, wherein the mount (105) comprises angled side surfaces (114) arranged to correspond with inner surfaces of the side portions (112) of the reinforcement plate (109).

6. The satellite antenna mounting system (100) of claim 1 , wherein the mount (105) includes tab fastener apertures (118) configured to receive tab fasteners engageable with tab recesses defined by the mounting profile of the antenna (101).

7. The satellite antenna mounting system (100) of claim 6, wherein the tab fastener apertures (118) are countersunk so that the heads of the tab fasteners are recessed below the flat outer surface (113) of the mount (105).

8. The satellite antenna mounting system (100) of claim 6, wherein the reinforcement plate (109) defines apertures aligned with the tab fastener apertures (118) of the mount (105).

9. The satellite antenna mounting system (100) of claim 1 , wherein the mount (105) defines an inner contact face (119) including a cableway (120) along a front edge (106) for passage of a satellite cable.

10. The satellite antenna mounting system (100) of claim 9, wherein the reinforcement plate (109) defines a central void (129) aligned with the cableway (120).

11. The satellite antenna mounting system (100) of claim 1 , wherein the reinforcement plate (109) and the mount (105) define aligned mounting fastener apertures (125) configured to receive mounting fasteners (126) for securing the mounting plate (124) to the mount (105) through the reinforcement plate (109).

12. The satellite antenna mounting system (100) of claim 1 , wherein the mounting plate (124) includes a tubular adapter (123) configured for insertion within a mounting pole (103).

13. The satellite antenna mounting system (100) of claim 1 , wherein the reinforcement plate (109) defines side fastener apertures (128) aligned with corresponding side fastener apertures in the mount (105).

14. The satellite antenna mounting system (100) of claim 1 , wherein the straight outer edges (116) of the reinforcement plate (109) are arranged parallel to a rear edge (130) of the reinforcement plate (109).

15. The satellite antenna mounting system (100) of claim 1 , wherein the reinforcement plate (109) comprises metal having a thickness of approximately 3 mm.

16. The method of mounting a satellite antenna (101) according to the system of claim 1 , comprising: engaging a mount (105) with a mounting profile defined by an undersurface of the satellite antenna (101); positioning a reinforcement plate (109) having a central planar portion (110) over the mount (105); and attaching a mounting plate (124) over the reinforcement plate (109) so that the central planar portion (110) is located between the mounting plate (124) and a flat outer surface (113) of the mount (105).

17. The method of claim 16, further comprising aligning straight outer edges (116) of the reinforcement plate (109) with corresponding planar surfaces (117) of the underside of the satellite antenna (101).

18. The method of claim 16, wherein the reinforcement plate (109) is fitted over the mount (105) such that side portions (112) of the reinforcement plate (109) engage angled side surfaces (114) of the mount (105).

19. The method of claim 16, further comprising inserting tab fasteners through tab fastener apertures (118) of the mount (105) to secure the mount (105) within the mounting profile.

20. The method of claim 16, wherein the mounting plate (124) is secured to the mount (105) through the reinforcement plate (109) using mounting fasteners (126) extending through aligned mounting fastener apertures (125).

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