Portable Lightning Protection System with Segmented Mast
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Solution Overview
Problem
Portable and high-value assets such as buildings, vehicles, and communication equipment lack effective lightning protection, as existing systems are not designed for remote or temporary locations and are difficult to install.
Innovation Solution
A portable lightning protection system comprising a multi-section mast, air terminal, and grounding components, including a conductive mast, air terminal with a brush-like configuration, and grounding cables, which can be easily assembled and secured near the asset to be protected, providing a conductive path for lightning to the ground.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a traditional lightning protection system is used, then the structure is protected from lightning strikes, but the system is difficult to install and not suitable for portable or temporary locations
Solution Approach 1:
The mast is divided into multiple telescoping sections that can be easily assembled and disassembled. Each section contains conductive elements that maintain electrical continuity throughout the mast structure, ensuring protection effectiveness while enabling portable installation.
Solution Approach 2:
The mast sections are designed to telescope into one another, with smaller sections nested within larger sections. This nesting arrangement allows the entire mast structure to be compactly stored and transported while maintaining the full height and conductive path when deployed for lightning protection.
2Ease of operation
If a portable lightning protection system is designed, then the system is easy to install and transport, but the structural strength and stability may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The mast is segmented into multiple sections connected by coupling mechanisms that provide both mechanical strength and electrical conductivity. The segmented design allows for portability while the robust coupling elements maintain structural integrity during assembly and operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The mast incorporates composite construction with conductive materials integrated into the structural elements. This combination ensures both the portability needed for temporary installations and the structural strength required to withstand environmental conditions and lightning strikes.
3Productivity
If the mast sections are joined by simple connections, then the assembly is easy and quick, but the electrical conductivity and security of the joint may be insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling mechanism merges mechanical connection and electrical conduction into a single integrated component. The coupling element simultaneously secures mast sections together mechanically while providing a continuous conductive path, eliminating the need for separate electrical connections and ensuring both assembly speed and electrical reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling element serves multiple functions: mechanical attachment of mast sections, maintenance of structural alignment, and provision of electrical conductivity. This multi-functionality allows quick assembly while ensuring the joint meets both mechanical and electrical requirements for effective lightning protection.
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
The system effectively protects structures from lightning strikes by providing a secure and conductive pathway for lightning to the ground, ensuring the safety of portable and high-value assets by creating a protected zone around the asset.
Implementation Method 1
The system provides a secure and conductive pathway for lightning to the ground
Implementation Method 2
A plurality of thin wires, e.g. 10 to 200 wires, project upwardly and outwardly from the top end of the air terminal rod in the shape of a brush to dissipate electrical charge
Data Source
AI summary
A portable lightning protection system is described for placement adjacent structures requiring lightning protection. The system includes a base mast section with an upper end and a plurality of radially extending, axially aligned ribs; a top mast section; preferably at least one intermediate mast section attachable to the upper end of the base mast section and to the lower end of the top mast section, the mast sections being axially aligned when attached; an air terminal having a conductive rod insertable into the bore of the top mast section; a base including a plurality of radially extending horizontal beams having inner ends attachable to the base mast section ribs and a plurality of inclined beams having inner ends attachable to the base mast section ribs and outer ends attachable to the horizontal beams; and grounding cables connecting the mast to the ground.