Modular Monopole Tower Foundation With Lowering Platform
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Monopole towers require expensive concrete foundations that are difficult to relocate, and existing systems lack a convenient method to raise and lower equipment, posing risks during high wind conditions.
Innovation Solution
A modular, portable foundation system with non-rotatably secured legs, a pivotally attached platform, and a jack mechanism that allows the monopole tower to be raised and lowered, enabling secure positioning and easy transportation and assembly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If concrete foundations are used to secure monopole towers, then the towers are stable and secure, but the foundations are expensive, difficult to relocate, and require construction permits
Solution Approach 1:
The foundation system is divided into separate modular components: a foundation plate, adjustable legs with baskets, and ballast weights. These segments can be assembled and disassembled independently, enabling the system to be relocated without removing concrete footings while maintaining structural stability during operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The foundation system transitions from a static concrete structure to a dynamic, adjustable configuration. The legs can be adjusted in length and angle, and the entire structure can be raised and lowered using jack mechanisms, allowing adaptation to different terrain and relocation needs while maintaining stability through adjustable geometry and ballast.
2Ease of operation
If monopole towers are raised to elevated positions to support equipment, then equipment is protected and accessible, but during high wind conditions the tower or equipment could be damaged
Solution Approach 1:
The monopole tower is designed with dynamic height adjustability through jack mechanisms that can raise and lower the tower. During high wind conditions, the tower can be lowered to a horizontal or reduced vertical position, reducing the sail area and structural loads on the tower and equipment while maintaining equipment accessibility when conditions are calm.
Solution Approach 2:
The system includes preliminary protective measures through the ability to lower the tower before extreme weather events occur. The adjustable platform and tower configuration allow operators to proactively reduce the structure's exposure to wind loads, preventing damage before high wind conditions fully develop.
3Reliability
If traditional concrete foundations are used, then the structure is stable, but the construction cost is high and additional equipment is required
Solution Approach 1:
The foundation system replaces expensive concrete foundations with lighter, more economical components including steel foundation plates, adjustable legs, and movable ballast weights. These components can be reused across multiple locations, eliminating the need for costly concrete pouring and curing at each site while maintaining adequate stability through proper ballast configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The foundation system is designed as a universal, multi-functional platform that can support various types of monopole towers and equipment across different terrains. The adjustable legs with baskets can accommodate different leg lengths and configurations, and the system can be adapted to work on surfaces where concrete foundations are impractical, reducing overall construction costs.
4Reliability
If monopole towers are permanently installed in fixed locations, then the structure is stable, but relocation becomes costly and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The foundation system is segmented into discrete, transportable components that can be quickly assembled and disassembled. The foundation plate, legs, baskets, and ballast can be separated into manageable units for transportation, enabling rapid relocation to new sites without the time-consuming process of breaking up and removing concrete foundations.
Solution Approach 2:
The foundation system incorporates dynamic adjustment capabilities with adjustable leg lengths and angles, allowing the structure to be quickly reconfigured for different site conditions during relocation. The jack mechanisms enable rapid raising and lowering of the monopole tower, significantly reducing the time required to relocate and re-establish the system at new locations.
Data Source
AI summary
A modular foundation includes a central portion and at least three legs non-rotatably secured to and extending from the central portion. The at least three legs are substantially equally spaced apart from each other wherein each leg includes a proximal end and a distal end. A basket is attached to the distal end of each leg wherein the basket is configured to be secured in a selected position. A platform is pivotally attached to the central portion wherein the platform is configured to move from a vertical position to a horizontal position.