Integrated Survey Pole Antenna for Damage-Resistant RF Coupling
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Solution Overview
Problem
The issue with existing satellite-based survey equipment is that external antennas are prone to damage when the mobile unit is moved between locations, compromising the integrity of the communication system.
Innovation Solution
The integration of an antenna within the survey pole, coupled through a pole adapter that mechanically and electrically connects the survey instrument to the survey pole, ensuring the antenna is protected and functional during movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If an external antenna is used for terrestrial communication, then the communication function is achieved, but the antenna is prone to damage when the mobile unit is moved between locations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the antenna with the survey pole by integrating the antenna into the pole adapter assembly. The pole adapter serves dual functions: mechanically coupling the survey instrument to the pole and electrically coupling the instrument to the integrated antenna. This merging eliminates the need for separate external antennas that are vulnerable to damage during movement.
Solution Approach 2:
The pole adapter is designed as a multi-functional component that simultaneously provides mechanical support for the survey instrument and electrical connection for the antenna. This universal component approach reduces overall system complexity while improving reliability by eliminating separate external antenna assemblies.
2Reliability
If the antenna is integrated in the survey pole, then the antenna is less likely to be damaged during movement, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the antenna with the pole adapter assembly, creating an integrated unit that is protected within the survey pole structure. The pole adapter simultaneously performs mechanical coupling and electrical coupling functions, protecting the antenna from external damage while maintaining communication functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The antenna is nested within the pole adapter assembly, which itself is attached to the survey pole. This nested configuration protects the antenna within the structural framework of the pole system, shielding it from external damage during transport and deployment while maintaining electrical connectivity.
Data Source
AI summary
Survey pole assembly and associated methods. In an embodiment, a survey pole assembly comprises a pole adapter configured to attach to a top end of a survey pole, and an antenna integrated in the survey pole. The pole adapter comprises a top male mount configured to mechanically couple to a survey instrument, and an antenna link comprising an upper Radio Frequency (RF) connector electrically coupled to a lower RF connector. The upper RF connector is configured to electrically connect to a corresponding RF connector of the survey instrument, and the lower RF connector is configured to electrically connect to the antenna integrated in the survey pole.