Antenna Cable Mounting Bracket Structure for Low-PIM Support
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cable mounting systems for antennas on towers generate undesirable passive intermodulation (PIM) due to metal-to-metal contact and relative movement, especially in high RF energy environments, necessitating a solution that minimizes PIM generation while providing secure cable support.
Innovation Solution
A bracket system comprising clamping members and a mounting panel with apertures, designed to engage a mounting structure, reduces PIM by minimizing metal-to-metal contact points and allowing for secure cable hanger attachment, adaptable to various pole sizes and configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If traditional cable support brackets with multiple metal components are used, then cable support and organization is achieved, but passive intermodulation (PIM) is generated due to metal-to-metal contact and relative movement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes metal-to-metal contact interfaces from the cable support system by extracting the clamping function from metal half-clamps and replacing it with a single L-shaped bracket that contacts the pole at only one location. This eliminates the multiple metal contact points and relative movement interfaces that generate PIM, while preserving cable support functionality through the mounting panel and cable hangers.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary mounting panel that couples the L-shaped bracket to the pole, creating a single stable contact point that mediates between the bracket and the pole. This intermediary structure eliminates the need for multiple metal clamping components that would otherwise contact the pole separately, thereby reducing PIM-generating interfaces while maintaining secure cable support.
2Stability of the object's composition
If multiple half-clamps and brackets are used to secure cables, then cable stability is improved, but device complexity and number of metal contact points increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple separate components (two half-clamps, multiple brackets, and mounting hardware) into a single integrated L-shaped bracket with an attached mounting panel. This consolidation reduces the number of parts from multiple discrete metal components to one unified structure, simplifying the device while maintaining cable stability through the integrated design.
Solution Approach 2:
The L-shaped bracket serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides structural support, creates a mounting surface via the attached panel, and secures cables through the panel's apertures. This multi-functional design replaces the need for multiple specialized components, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining or improving cable stability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If traditional mounting systems are used, then adaptability to various pole configurations is achieved, but PIM generation increases due to multiple adjustment points
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the adaptability function into two parts: the L-shaped bracket provides structural adaptability to various pole configurations through its geometry, while the mounting panel with multiple apertures provides adjustment options for cable positions. This segmentation allows adaptability to be maintained without requiring multiple metal-to-metal contact points, as each aperture represents a fixed, stable connection point rather than a adjustable metal interface.
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure describes a bracket for mounting cables. The bracket includes a first clamping member and a second clamping member. The first and second clamping members are configured to engage a mounting structure therebetween. The first clamping member extends along a first longitudinal axis and the second clamping member extends along a second longitudinal axis that is parallel to the first longitudinal axis. The bracket further includes a mounting panel coupled to the first and second clamping members. The mounting panel extends along a third longitudinal axis that is perpendicular to the first and second longitudinal axes and offset a distance from the mounting structure. The mounting panel includes a plurality of apertures with at least one of the plurality of apertures being configured to receive and secure a cable hanger therein. Other cable mounting brackets are described herein.