Segmented Antenna Mast Foundation Reducing Concrete Effort

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Solution Overview

Problem

The existing slab foundation method for antenna masts in wireless communication systems requires substantial excavation and concrete casting, making it cumbersome and resource-intensive, especially when the mast needs to be removed.

Innovation Solution

A foundation system comprising multiple preformed elongated foundation elements arranged symmetrically around a central portion, joined by a central concrete portion, with each element featuring a bar for attachment and a through hole for anchoring piles into the ground, reducing the effort and resources needed compared to traditional slab foundations.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a slab foundation is used for antenna mast, then the foundation provides stable support, but substantial excavation and concrete casting work is required

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefoundation stabilityVSAvoidfoundation construction effort
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The foundation is divided into multiple separate foundation elements (typically 3-4 elements) arranged around the antenna mast, with each element containing a bar extending from it. These segmented elements are joined by casting concrete in the central portion, creating a stable foundation without requiring a single large concrete slab.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Strength

If a large concrete slab foundation is used, then the mast is securely supported, but removing the foundation becomes cumbersome

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemast support capacityVSAvoidfoundation removal ease
Core Design Contradiction:
StrengthVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

By segmenting the foundation into separate elements joined only at the central portion through concrete casting, the foundation can be disassembled more easily. The individual foundation elements can be removed or repositioned without the need to break up and remove a large monolithic concrete slab, while still providing adequate support for the antenna mast during operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Area of stationary object

If a slab foundation extending 5x5 meters is used, then the entire mast area is supported, but a considerable amount of concrete must be produced and cast

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefoundation coverage areaVSAvoidconcrete quantity
Core Design Contradiction:
Area of stationary objectVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

Instead of casting a continuous concrete slab covering the entire 5x5 meter area, the foundation uses segmented elements positioned at key locations around the mast, joined by concrete casting only in the central portion. This segmentation reduces the total volume of concrete required while still providing adequate support across the entire foundation area through the strategic placement of the elements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Data Source

PatentEP2780976B1Method and arrangements relating to foundation for antenna mast of wireless communication system
Publication Date: 2015.09.30 TELEFONAKTIEBOLAGET LM ERICSSON (PUBL)
  • EP2780976B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2a
  • EP2780976B1 patent drawingFigure 2b
  • EP2780976B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

A method of building a foundation, a foundation element (2),and a foundation for an antenna mast of a wireless communication system are provided. The foundation comprises at least three foundation elements (2). Each foundation element (2) comprises an elongated body (4). The elongated body (4) comprising a first end (6). At least one bar (16) extends from the elongated body (4) at the first end (6). An attachment arrangement (18) for the antenna mast is provided on the foundation element (2). The at least three foundation elements (2) are arranged to extend substantially symmetrically from a central portion (24) of the foundation (30). A central concrete portion is cast in the central portion (24) of the foundation (30) to join the at least one bar (16) of each of the three foundation elements (2).