Folding Antenna Frame for Compact Shipping and Wind Resistance
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing antenna mounting frames face challenges with large shipping sizes when assembled, time-consuming on-site assembly, and structural unsoundness, particularly prone to wind loading and deformation.
Innovation Solution
A folding frame design with upper and lower mounting brackets, elongated support arms and members that pivotally connect, allowing for compact shipment and easy assembly into a durable, extended position with improved structural stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If the mounting assembly is partially or completely assembled at the factory, then the assembly is ready for installation, but the assembled size creates shipping problems
Solution Approach 1:
The mounting assembly is divided into multiple components that can be folded together. The frame includes vertical members and horizontal members that can be segmented and folded relative to each other, allowing the assembled structure to be collapsed into a compact configuration for shipping while maintaining ease of manufacture through pre-assembly of components.
Solution Approach 2:
The folding frame design allows components to be nested within each other when folded. The horizontal members can be positioned inside or alongside vertical members, creating a nested configuration that significantly reduces the overall volume for shipping while preserving the complete assembly structure for installation.
2Volume of moving object
If the mounting assemblies are shipped to the job site in an unassembled condition, then shipping space is optimized, but the components must be assembled at the job site which is time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
Components are pre-assembled into a folding frame configuration at the factory before shipping. The frame members are pre-connected with pivot joints and fastening mechanisms, so that while the structure is compact for shipping, it requires minimal assembly action at the job site - essentially just unfolding and securing the pre-assembled components.
3Ease of manufacture
If flat members are used in the frame design, then manufacturing is simplified, but greater wind loading is produced on the existing structure
Solution Approach 1:
The frame members are designed with curved or tubular cross-sections rather than flat profiles. This curvature reduces the wind surface area and allows wind to flow more smoothly around the members, decreasing wind loading on the structure while maintaining manufacturing simplicity through standard tubular section fabrication.
4Device complexity
If a single support arm design is used, then device complexity is reduced, but the structure is prone to twist causing permanent deformation and possible failure
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure is segmented into multiple support arms rather than a single arm design. Each arm is individually connected to the vertical members through pivot joints, distributing the load and preventing twist deformation. This segmentation increases reliability by providing redundant support paths while maintaining reasonable complexity through modular construction.
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
Enables efficient shipping, rapid on-site deployment, and enhanced durability and stability in the installed position, reducing wind loading and deformation risks.
Implementation Method 1
The first support member is pivotally secured, intermediate its length, to the outer end of the first support arm about a generally vertical axis
Data Source
AI summary
A folding frame for mounting an antenna on an upstanding support structure including first and second support arms pivotally secured to an upper mounting bracket and third and fourth support arms which are pivotally secured to a lower mounting bracket with the upper and lower mounting brackets being secured to the support structure. Support members are pivotally secured to the outer ends of the support arms and are pivotally connected together so that the frame may be pivotally moved from a folded position to a non-folding position. When the frame is in its folded position, it is easily shipped on a pallet.