Cellular Radio Shroud with Modular Bracket System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current shroud designs for small cell antenna systems can only house up to two radios of the same type, limiting their versatility in accommodating different cellular transceivers from various networks.
Innovation Solution
A modular shroud design with a planar backbone and elongated brackets that allows for the mounting of multiple cellular transceivers of different types, along with RF conditioning equipment and network interfaces, enabling the co-location of various cellular networks on a single power line pole.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional shroud designs are used, then the structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the shroud can only house up to two radios of the same type, limiting versatility
Solution Approach 1:
The shroud is designed with a universal mounting structure that can accommodate multiple types of cellular transceivers (e.g., CPE, small cell, micro cell radios) through standardized brackets and mounting positions. The interior space is configured to house different radio types simultaneously, allowing a single shroud to serve multiple network operators and technology types.
Solution Approach 2:
The shroud interior is divided into multiple mounting zones with adjustable brackets positioned at different heights and orientations. Each bracket can be independently configured to secure different radio types, enabling flexible arrangement of up to six or more transceivers within the same housing structure.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple different transceivers are accommodated, then network coverage is enhanced, but the mounting structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
Standardized mounting brackets and attachment mechanisms are designed to work with multiple transceiver types without requiring custom fabrication. The brackets feature adjustable positioning capabilities and universal attachment points that simplify the manufacturing process while maintaining versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple mounting functions are integrated into a single standardized bracket design. The bracket system combines adjustment mechanisms, securing features, and positioning elements into one component that can accommodate various radio types, reducing the number of different parts needed and simplifying manufacturing.
3Ease of operation
If transceivers are mounted in a fixed configuration, then installation is simple, but maintenance and replacement require removing entire radios
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting system separates the transceiver from its power supply through independent mounting brackets. Power supplies are mounted on separate adjustable brackets positioned below or beside the transceivers, allowing technicians to access and replace power supplies without removing the transceivers themselves, and vice versa.
Solution Approach 2:
The mounting brackets are designed with adjustable and removable features that allow dynamic reconfiguration. Brackets can be quickly released and repositioned to accommodate different transceiver sizes and shapes, while maintaining secure mounting during operation. This dynamic capability simplifies both initial installation and ongoing maintenance.
Data Source
AI summary
A shroud for a small cell antenna system is designed to house cellular telephone equipment, including a plurality of transceivers, RF conditioning equipment, and a network interface, which includes an interface to a optical fiber network. The housing has walls that define an interior region. The housing has at least one movable door that can be opened and closed to respectively permit and prevent access to the interior region. A generally planar backbone is situated in the interior region. The backbone has a plurality of apertures. A plurality of elongated brackets can be mounted to the backbone. Each bracket has a plurality of hooks and is attached to the backbone by insertion of the hooks into the apertures of the backbone. RF conditioning equipment (e.g., diplexer, triplexer, multiplexer, etc.) is mounted on one of the brackets within the housing. A network interface is mounted on another one of the brackets within the housing. Furthermore, one or more transceivers are mounted on one or more other brackets within the housing. The transceivers can be of different types, if desired.