Portable Lightning Protection System with Hingeable Base
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Solution Overview
Problem
Portable and high-value assets such as buildings, aircraft, and military command posts are not adequately protected from lightning strikes, as existing lightning protection systems are not easily deployable or effective for these types of structures.
Innovation Solution
A modular, portable lightning protection system comprising a multi-section conductive mast assembly with a hingeable base assembly, air terminal, and grounding cables, allowing for quick deployment and expansion of protection zones through catenary wire connections between multiple systems.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional lightning protection systems are used, then protection function is provided, but deployment speed and ease of installation are poor
Solution Approach 1:
The lightning protection system is divided into modular components including a base assembly, multi-section mast assembly, and air terminal assembly that can be independently transported and quickly assembled together through simple connection mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The base assembly incorporates a hinge assembly that allows the mast assembly to transition between horizontal transport position and vertical operational position, enabling rapid deployment without complex installation procedures
2Reliability
If fixed lightning protection systems are used, then stable protection is provided, but adaptability to different assets and locations is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses segmented mast sections that can be adjusted in number and configuration to match different height requirements, along with a modular base assembly that can be positioned at various locations around different types of assets
Solution Approach 2:
The base assembly serves multiple functions including providing structural support, enabling rapid deployment through hinge mechanism, and offering flexible positioning options to accommodate different asset types and protection zone requirements
3Area of stationary object
If multiple separate lightning protection systems are used, then coverage area is limited, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple lightning protection systems are electrically connected through a catenary wire to form a unified protection network, where the wire connects the mast assemblies and creates an integrated system that protects a continuous area without requiring complex coordination between separate systems
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
Provides effective and rapid lightning protection for a wide range of assets by deterring and terminating lightning strikes, with the ability to create a larger combined protection zone when multiple systems are connected by a catenary wire, ensuring comprehensive coverage.
Implementation Method 1
at least one grounding cable to ground the multi-section conductive mast assembly
Implementation Method 2
at least one ground rod to ground the at least one grounding cable to earth
Data Source
AI summary
A lightning isolation support arm assembly for mounting an accessory unit, such as an antenna, sensor, camera, or any other suitable accessory/device, to a mast assembly of a lightning protection system. The support arm assembly may include a mast base adapter and one or more support arms attached to the mast base adapter. A portable lightning protection system including a multi-section conductive mast assembly including at least a base mast section and a top mast section; an air terminal attachable to the top mast section; a base assembly attachable to the base mast section via a hinge assembly, wherein the hinge assembly may be configured to allow the base mast section to hinge relative to the base assembly; and a support arm assembly attached to the mast assembly.