Rotatable Mast Locking Assembly for Safer Single-Tech Service
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mast systems for wireless signal reception and transmission, solar panels, and utility devices are costly to install and maintain due to their heavy and bulky construction, requiring multiple technicians and specialized tools to prevent accidental dropping during service, which poses safety risks and operational challenges.
Innovation Solution
A mast assembly with a rotatable hub and receiver system that allows the mast to be securely positioned between deployed and service modes, featuring a base with a hub and receiver configuration that prevents unwanted rotation, enabling single-technician operation and safer maintenance by locking the mast in place during service.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If traditional heavy and bulky mast construction is used, then structural strength and stability are improved, but installation and maintenance costs increase, requiring multiple technicians and specialized tools
Solution Approach 1:
The mast is divided into multiple sections that can be assembled in a telescopic configuration. Each section is lighter and more manageable, allowing single-technician installation and maintenance while maintaining overall structural strength through the interconnected sections and locking mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The mast incorporates a telescopic mechanism with movable sections that can extend and retract. This dynamic structure allows the mast to be compact during transport and installation, then extended to full height for operation, reducing the physical demands on technicians while maintaining structural integrity.
2Stability of the object's composition
If traditional mast construction is used, then vertical stability is improved, but ease of operation during maintenance deteriorates, requiring cherry pickers and multiple technicians
Solution Approach 1:
The mast allows dynamic positioning where sections can be extended or retracted to bring the working platform to accessible heights. During maintenance, the mast can be lowered or sections retracted to reduce height, eliminating the need for cherry pickers while maintaining stability through the locking mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The mast incorporates a self-supporting platform with integrated safety features including handholds, footrests, and a locking mechanism that secures the mast in position during maintenance. The design allows a single technician to safely perform maintenance without additional support equipment or personnel.
3Force
If traditional mast construction is used, then load-bearing capacity is improved, but safety risks increase during maintenance due to potential accidental dropping
Solution Approach 1:
The telescopic mechanism includes a locking mechanism that secures each section in place during maintenance operations. This dynamic locking system prevents accidental dropping or shifting of the mast sections while maintaining the load-bearing capacity needed for safe technician access and equipment support.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking mechanism acts as an intermediary between the mast sections, providing a secure connection that prevents unintended movement or dropping. This intermediary component ensures that the load-bearing capacity is maintained while eliminating the safety hazards associated with unstable or unsecured mast sections during maintenance.
4Strength
If heavy mast construction is used, then structural integrity is improved, but installation time and complexity increase, requiring specialized tools and multiple technicians
Solution Approach 1:
The mast is segmented into pre-fabricated sections that can be easily transported and assembled. Each section is designed with connection features that simplify assembly, allowing a single technician to install the complete mast system in reduced time while maintaining structural integrity through the engineered connections between sections.
Data Source
AI summary
This disclosure relates to a mast having an elongated arm movable between a deployed position and a service position. The elongated arm is attached by a rotatable hub. A receiver is spaced from the hub and configured to selectively prevent rotation of the mast.