Locomotive Antenna Array Shared Access Hole
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Solution Overview
Problem
The installation of multiple antennas with different frequencies on locomotives is time-consuming and costly due to the need for multiple roof access holes, which complicates the mounting process and interferes with existing mechanical systems on the limited roof space of locomotives.
Innovation Solution
An antenna array with multiple antenna elements that operate at different frequencies, sharing a common access hole, allowing for simultaneous installation and minimizing the number of roof access holes required, while maintaining optimal performance and compatibility with existing rooftop structures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate antennas are mounted on the locomotive roof, then each antenna can operate at its desired frequency, but the number of access holes required increases and installation time increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple antenna elements operating at different frequencies are combined into a single integrated antenna array structure mounted on the locomotive roof. This merging allows all antenna elements to share a common access hole and mounting structure, thereby reducing installation time while maintaining the ability of each element to operate at its desired frequency.
Solution Approach 2:
The antenna array structure is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously - supporting multiple antenna elements that operate at different frequencies through a single mounting structure and common access hole. This multi-functional design eliminates the need for separate mounting structures for each antenna, reducing overall installation time.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate antennas are mounted on the locomotive roof, then each antenna can operate at its desired frequency, but the number of access holes increases and complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple antenna elements are merged into a single integrated array structure that requires only one access hole and one mounting structure. This consolidation reduces the overall complexity of the mounting system while preserving the frequency operation capability of each individual antenna element.
Solution Approach 2:
The common mounting structure serves as a universal platform for multiple antenna elements operating at different frequencies. This single structure performs the function of supporting all antenna elements, eliminating the need for multiple separate mounting structures and reducing system complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate antennas are mounted on the locomotive roof, then each antenna can operate at its desired frequency, but labor cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple antenna elements are combined into a single pre-assembled array unit that can be installed as one component rather than multiple separate antennas. This merging reduces the number of installation steps and access holes required, thereby reducing labor cost while maintaining frequency operation capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The antenna elements are pre-assembled into a complete array structure with all mounting hardware configured in advance. This preliminary assembly allows the entire multi-frequency antenna system to be installed in a single operation rather than requiring multiple separate installation procedures, reducing labor cost.
4Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate antennas are mounted on the locomotive roof, then each antenna can operate at its desired frequency, but the number of access holes required increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple antenna elements are merged into a single compact array structure that occupies less roof space than multiple separate antennas would require. The combined structure allows all elements to share a common mounting location and access hole, improving roof space utilization while maintaining frequency operation capability.
Data Source
AI summary
An antenna array is provided having multiple antenna elements mountable to the roof of a locomotive. Each of the antenna elements has a separate signal path of one or more conductive elements in a housing and shares a common hole or opening to outside the housing through which the signal path of each antenna element is extendable. The signal path of each antenna element then extends via a common access hole in the roof of the locomotive for enabling one or more of passage of signals to or from the antenna element. The access hole is below the array when the common hole is along the bottom of the housing, and elsewhere along the roof when the common hole is along a side of the housing. Two of the antenna arrays may be mounted in a parallel relationship spaced from each other along the locomotive roof and share the same or a different access hole in such roof.