Antenna Mounting Apparatus with Stepper Motor Azimuth Adjustment
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing antenna mast systems have limited azimuth adjustment capabilities, leading to inaccurate antenna orientation, excessive sector overlap, or gaps, which are undesirable for modern cellular networks, and do not accommodate multiple service providers or radio access technologies optimally, restricting antenna selection and requiring application-specific masts.
Innovation Solution
A cellular communications antenna mounting apparatus with actuators and gearboxes allows precise adjustment of antenna positions using stepper motors and optical encoders, enabling two antennas to be pointed in the same direction within a compact space, eliminating the need for manual adjustment and accommodating diverse antenna configurations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If antennas are positioned close together and equally spaced around a central axis to achieve compact assembly, then spatial requirements are reduced and aesthetic appearance is improved, but azimuth adjustment capability is limited to approximately 15 degrees in each direction
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the antenna mounting system into separate adjustable units, where each antenna can be independently positioned and adjusted. The mounting structure is segmented to allow individual antenna azimuth adjustment without affecting other antennas, enabling each antenna to achieve full 360-degree azimuth coverage while maintaining compact overall assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces dynamic adjustment mechanisms that allow the antenna positions to be changed from a fixed static configuration. The mounting apparatus enables continuous azimuth adjustment of each antenna independently, transforming the system from a fixed equidistant configuration to a dynamically adjustable layout where antennas can be positioned at any azimuth angle as needed.
2Ease of operation
If manual azimuth adjustment using tools such as the Katherein is used to position antennas, then installation flexibility is maintained, but alignment accuracy is poor and significant error occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates feedback mechanisms including optical encoders and alignment indicators that provide real-time information about antenna position and orientation. The system includes visual feedback through alignment indicators that show when antennas are properly positioned, and electronic feedback through encoders that precisely measure and report azimuth angles, eliminating the guesswork and inaccuracy of manual adjustment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical adjustment tools like the Katherein with an automated motorized positioning system. Electric motors with precise control replace manual telescopic alignment tools, and the system uses electronic control and feedback rather than manual visual estimation, dramatically improving alignment accuracy while maintaining operational ease.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a single antenna is used to serve multiple service providers or radio access technologies, then site sharing is achieved, but the antenna position cannot be optimized for each provider or technology
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the antenna system into multiple independently adjustable antenna units, each capable of being positioned at different azimuth and tilt angles. This allows different antennas to be optimized for different service providers or radio access technologies while sharing the same physical site and mast structure, eliminating the compromise required when using a single antenna for multiple purposes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal mounting platform that can accommodate multiple antennas with different characteristics and requirements. The system provides multi-functionality by enabling the same site to host antennas optimized for different providers and technologies simultaneously, with each antenna independently adjustable to its optimal position for its specific function.
4Reliability
If application-specific masts are manufactured for different locations and coverage requirements, then optimal coverage is achieved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs a universal mast and mounting system that can be used across all application types and locations. The standardized universal platform accommodates various antenna configurations and heights through adjustable mounting mechanisms, eliminating the need to manufacture different application-specific masts for urban, suburban, and rural deployments while maintaining optimal coverage capabilities for each scenario.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution provides high accuracy in antenna alignment, reduces overlap and gaps, optimizes network performance, and allows for flexible antenna configurations suitable for multiple service providers and radio access technologies, enhancing spectrum efficiency and reducing costs.
Implementation Method 1
actuators, and in particular, stepper motors
Implementation Method 2
optical encoders
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3~4
AI summary
An antenna mast system (100) comprising a base (102), a plurality of selectively securable modular mast bodies (104), and an antenna mount (106). The base isaligned to a datum and each part of the system is aligned to the base to provide an accurate and repeatable antenna positioning system. The antenna mounting apparatus (106) comprises an antenna mount (138), an intermediate member (158) pivotally attached to the antenna mount to pivot about a first axis (160), an antenna bracket (162) pivotally attached to the intermediate member (158) to pivot about a second axis (164) substantially parallel to the first axis. A control system is used to control the actuation of the system.