Clamp-Based Antenna Mount for Railing Installation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing satellite antenna mounting systems face challenges in multi-dwelling units where exterior attachments are forbidden, requiring permanent alterations and risking signal disruption due to environmental conditions.
Innovation Solution
A modular antenna mount system comprising adjustable plates and bolts that securely attach to railing supports without drilling, allowing for stable antenna installation without damaging the structure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the antenna is mounted to the exterior of a building or railing using traditional methods, then the antenna can be securely attached, but permanent alterations such as drilling holes are required which are forbidden in multi-dwelling units
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a mounting system with clamp assemblies that act as intermediaries between the antenna support structure and the railing. The clamps grip the railing externally without penetrating it, using friction and mechanical interlocking forces to achieve secure attachment while avoiding permanent damage to the building structure
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces the traditional mechanical fastening system (screws, bolts, drilling) with a friction-based clamping system. The mounting brackets use adjustable clamps that apply radial force to grip the railing surface, substituting penetrative mechanical connection with non-penetrative frictional and normal forces
2Ease of manufacture
If the antenna is mounted without permanent alterations, then community rules are followed and structures are preserved, but the mounting stability may be compromised under strong winds
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system is divided into multiple independent clamp assemblies distributed along the railing. Each clamp independently contributes to the overall stability, and the segmented design allows the force to be distributed across multiple contact points, preventing any single point from failing under wind load
Solution Approach 2:
The clamp assemblies are designed with curved gripping surfaces that conform to the cylindrical shape of the railing. This curvature contact increases the contact area and distributes the mounting forces more evenly around the railing surface, enhancing stability without requiring penetration
3Adaptability or versatility
If adjustable mounting components are used to accommodate different railing configurations, then versatility is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system uses universal clamp designs that can accommodate various railing diameters, materials, and configurations through adjustable opening widths and positioning mechanisms. The same basic clamp assembly can be used on different railing types by adjusting the opening and position, eliminating the need for multiple specialized components
Data Source
AI summary
An antenna amount including first, second, and third plates is disclosed. Each of the first and second plates includes a planar section and a flange connected to the planar section. At least one attachment device attaches the first plate to the second plate to form a plate structure. When attached, the planar sections of the first and second plates contact each other. Also, the flanges are parallel to each other, extend in the same direction, and are positioned to abut opposing surfaces of a mounting base. The third plate includes a planar section and a mounting surface connected to the planar section. The mounting surface is configured to receive a mounting device for the antenna. The attachment device clamps the mounting base between the third plate and the plate structure.