Universal Antenna Mast Clamp for Precise 5G Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing antenna mounting systems for modern cellular antennas, particularly 5G and beyond, face challenges such as excessive weight, wind-load, complex installation processes, inaccurate alignment, high environmental impact, and increased total cost of ownership due to over-dimensioning and customization requirements, which affect tower capacity and efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A universal antenna support system utilizing lightweight, extruded universal clamp plates and azimuth steering units that can adapt to various mast cross-sections, allowing for quick and precise installation without customization, reducing system volume and weight, and minimizing wind-load.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional customized mounting brackets and over-dimensioned support structures are used, then antenna alignment accuracy is improved, but system weight and wind-load increase excessively
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs universal clamp plates with standardized geometry that can accommodate multiple mast cross-section types (round, square, rectangular) through a single design. These clamp plates feature universal mounting holes and attachment mechanisms that work across different mast configurations, eliminating the need for customized brackets for each mast type while maintaining precise antenna alignment capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention utilizes adjustable parameters in the mounting system, including variable clamp plate positions, adjustable azimuth steering unit angles, and configurable tilt mechanisms. These adjustable parameters allow the same standardized hardware to achieve precise alignment accuracy across different installation scenarios without requiring over-dimensioned fixed structures.
2Manufacturing precision
If customized mounting brackets for specific mast cross-sections are used, then installation precision is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a family of clamp plates with identical geometry and mounting interfaces that can be used across different mast types. The universal design features standardized hole patterns, clamping mechanisms, and attachment points that work with round, square, and rectangular masts, significantly reducing the number of unique part numbers and simplifying the overall system architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting system is divided into modular components: standardized clamp plates, adjustable azimuth steering units, and configurable tilt mechanisms. Each module can be independently manufactured, tested, and assembled, reducing manufacturing complexity while maintaining installation precision through modular interoperability.
3Strength
If over-dimensioned support structures are used, then structural strength is improved, but environmental impact and material usage increase
Solution Approach 1:
The invention employs optimized dimensional parameters for clamp plates and support structures based on actual load requirements rather than over-dimensioning. The clamp plates use precisely calculated thickness and geometry to provide sufficient clamping force and structural strength while minimizing material consumption. The system adapts to different mast sizes using parameter adjustments rather than universally oversized components.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting system applies strength and material resources locally where needed - the clamp plates are concentrated at specific attachment points on the mast, providing localized structural reinforcement only where loads are transmitted. This avoids the need for globally over-dimensioned support structures and reduces overall material usage while maintaining necessary structural strength.
4Adaptability or versatility
If multiple customized bracket types are used for different mast sections, then adaptability is improved, but installation time and productivity decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a single type of universal clamp plate that can be installed on round, square, and rectangular masts without requiring different bracket types. The clamp plates feature adjustable geometry and universal mounting mechanisms that accommodate various mast cross-sections, allowing installers to use the same hardware kit for all mast types and significantly reducing installation time.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting system incorporates adjustable and reconfigurable elements in the clamp plates that can be dynamically adapted during installation. The clamp plates feature movable components and adjustable positioning mechanisms that allow quick adaptation to different mast configurations without requiring pre-customization, enabling fast installation across diverse mast types.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides a system and method of modifying an existing antenna base station comprising the steps of replacing legacy antenna support brackets (10) with a new mast clamp arrangement (200) coupled with a steering and locking unit (100).