Antenna Mounting Structure for Stable Processor Arm Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional antenna assemblies face challenges with heavy data processing components causing arm instability, leading to misalignment and increased error rates due to wind loading, making accurate installation and maintenance difficult.
Innovation Solution
A support structure is provided that engages with the data processing components and support arm, allowing adjustable positioning and locking to maintain optimal alignment with the antenna dish, supporting the components securely and reducing movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If heavy data processing components are located at the free end of the arm, then the arm becomes unstable and prone to twisting and bending, but removing or reducing the components is not feasible as their function is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a vertical support member that extends downward from the arm to engage with the mounting bracket, creating a three-dimensional support structure. This additional vertical dimension provides downward support force that counteracts the upward bending moment caused by heavy data processing components at the free end of the arm, thereby stabilizing the arm without reducing component weight.
2Reliability
If the arm is made heavier to support the data processing components, then stability improves, but manufacturing cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the support function into separate components: the horizontal arm member and the vertical support member. Instead of making the entire arm structure heavier and more complex, the support function is segmented into a distinct vertical member that can be independently fabricated and assembled. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized separately, reducing overall manufacturing complexity while achieving the required stability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the mounting location is at the rear of the dish, then the antenna assembly can be mounted to vertical surfaces, but the entire weight must be supported from the rear causing significant arm movement in windy conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent adds a vertical dimension to the support structure by extending a support member downward from the arm to engage with the mounting bracket. This vertical engagement creates a lever arm that counteracts wind-induced moments, providing superior stability in windy conditions while maintaining the ability to mount on vertical surfaces. The vertical support member acts as a counterbalancing element that improves reliability without sacrificing mounting versatility.
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus and a method for securely mounting an antenna assembly with respect to a support means. The antenna assembly includes a mounting means, antenna dish, support arm and data processing means. The invention provides a support structure selectively configurable to provide support for the data processing means position with respect to the antenna dish and thereby allow subsequent processing of the received data to be retained at a preferred position for efficient data processing over time and thereby retain the quality of the data for an end user.