Antenna Module Carrier Chassis Alignment Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
The installation and removal of heavy hub amplifiers in satellite communication gateway antennas are cumbersome for technicians, often requiring two people due to the weight and difficulty in securely holding the components while loosening or tightening bolts.
Innovation Solution
A baseplate and carrier chassis system with an alignment and retention mechanism that allows for single-person operation, where the carrier chassis engages with the baseplate to position and secure the antenna module, enabling hand-tightening followed by tool-assisted securing, and protecting waveguides from removal during the process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of repair
If hub amplifiers are mounted to the antenna dish assembly with bolts for replaceability, then the equipment can be replaced as necessary, but it requires two technicians to securely hold the heavy amplifier while loosening or tightening bolts
Solution Approach 1:
A support apparatus is introduced as an intermediary device between the technician and the hub amplifier. This support apparatus temporarily holds the heavy amplifier during bolt loosening or tightening operations, allowing a single technician to perform the replacement without needing a second person to support the equipment.
2Reliability
If the antenna dish assembly is mounted at a considerable distance from the ground for proper orientation, then the satellite communication function is achieved, but it becomes difficult for technicians to access and handle equipment during installation and maintenance
Solution Approach 1:
The support apparatus is designed to be mounted on the antenna dish assembly structure itself, utilizing the vertical dimension and structural framework of the elevated assembly. This allows the support device to provide stabilization at height without requiring ground-based equipment or compromising the elevated positioning necessary for satellite communication.
Data Source
AI summary
An antenna module installation system comprising a baseplate and a carrier chassis. The baseplate is configured to couple to an antenna dish assembly, and comprises an antenna module mounting apparatus including an alignment portion and a retention portion. The carrier chassis is configured to retain an antenna module, such as antenna hub amplifier, and comprises an engaging apparatus. The carrier chassis is configured to allow multiple manufacturers versions of a component to be used through adapter components. The engaging apparatus is configured to engage with the alignment portion, which positions the carrier chassis in a mounting alignment, and to move from the alignment portion to the retention portion which retains the carrier chassis in engagement with the baseplate. The engaging apparatus is designed to allow that direct connections to the component in the carrier chassis are disconnected prior to its removal.