Modular Roof Antenna Fastening for Concentric Connector Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
The installation of roof antennas for vehicles is complex due to the need to couple mechanical and electrical components through a supporting structure from two sides, increasing handling complexity.
Innovation Solution
A fastening system for modular antennas that includes a supporting structure with a through-opening, an upper module with a radio unit and control connector, and a lower module with a control unit and complementary control connector, where the upper module bears against the supporting structure above the through-opening and the lower module below, with a planet pinion engaging with a nut and external thread to brace both modules against the structure, facilitating easy installation by a concentric arrangement of components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the supporting structure is installed from two sides to accommodate both radio unit and control unit, then both mechanical and electrical components can be coupled, but the handling complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The antenna system is divided into two separate modules: an upper module containing the radio unit and a lower module containing the control unit. This segmentation allows each module to be independently positioned and installed, with the upper module accessible from above and the lower module from below, thereby reducing the overall installation complexity while maintaining the ability to couple both mechanical and electrical components through the supporting structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes the vertical dimension by positioning components at different heights relative to the supporting structure. The upper module is arranged above the supporting structure with its control connector extending downward, while the lower module is arranged below with its connector extending upward. This dimensional arrangement allows connectors to engage through the supporting structure without requiring complex lateral manipulation, thus reducing handling complexity.
2Reliability
If control connector and complementary control connector are brought into engagement through the through-opening, then electrical connection is established, but alignment precision is challenging
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines mechanical fastening and electrical connection functions into a single integrated process. The control connector and complementary control connector are positioned such that their engagement through the through-opening simultaneously establishes both mechanical coupling and electrical connection. This merging of functions ensures that once the modules are properly positioned, both mechanical and electrical connections are established together, improving reliability while reducing the need for separate alignment operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The supporting structure acts as an intermediary element that facilitates the alignment and engagement of the control connectors. The through-opening in the supporting structure is positioned to align with both control connectors, guiding them into proper engagement. This intermediary structure provides a reference framework that simplifies the alignment process and ensures precise electrical connection between the upper and lower modules.
Data Source
AI summary
A fastening configuration for a roof antenna. A plug connection is located between the roof antenna and a control device in the center of the fastening configuration, and mechanical connection components are located around the plug connection.