Vehicle Antenna Hinge Assembly for Stable Mounting and Shorter RF Cables
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional vehicular shark fin antennas face challenges in easy and stable installation, require long RF cables leading to high costs and significant signal loss, and have complex wiring issues.
Innovation Solution
A coupling structure and installation method utilizing a hinge unit with a rotary axis, a locking unit, and module-type hinge units to securely mount the antenna assembly on a vehicle, allowing for adjustable cable placement and reduced manufacturing costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a conventional shark fin antenna is installed on a vehicle, then the antenna can be mounted on the vehicle body, but the wiring work is difficult and stable installation is hard to achieve
Solution Approach 1:
The antenna system is divided into separate modular components: the shark fin antenna unit, the communication device, and the hinge unit connecting them. This segmentation allows independent installation and simplifies wiring, as each module can be installed separately rather than as a single complex assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge unit provides rotational movement capability, allowing the antenna to be installed and positioned in three-dimensional space. The antenna can rotate around the hinge axis to achieve optimal positioning while maintaining a compact installation footprint on the vehicle body.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a long RF cable is used to connect the antenna to the communication device, then the antenna can be positioned on the vehicle body, but the cost increases and signal loss rate becomes large
Solution Approach 1:
The hinge unit enables dynamic positioning of the antenna relative to the communication device. The antenna can rotate to different angles and positions while maintaining a relatively short cable length, unlike fixed installations that require long cables to reach distant mounting points.
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge unit acts as an intermediary mechanism between the antenna and communication device, providing rotational movement that reduces the required cable length. By allowing the antenna to rotate into position rather than extending the cable, signal loss is minimized while positioning flexibility is maintained.
3Ease of manufacture
If a simple antenna structure is used, then manufacturing cost is reduced, but stable and easy installation becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The system is segmented into simple, standardized modules (antenna unit, communication device, hinge unit) that can be manufactured independently using conventional processes. Each module has a simple structure optimized for its specific function, reducing overall manufacturing complexity while improving installation reliability through modular assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The hinge unit serves multiple functions: it connects the antenna to the communication device, provides rotational movement for positioning, and maintains a compact installation profile. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional complex components, keeping manufacturing costs low while ensuring stable installation.
4Adaptability or versatility
If multiple cables are used for antenna installation, then comprehensive communication functions are achieved, but the complexity and cost of installation increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple communication functions (DMB, GPS, mobile communication, RF signals) are integrated into a single communication device that connects to the antenna through one hinge unit. This consolidation reduces the number of separate cables and connectors needed compared to having separate devices for each communication function.
Solution Approach 2:
The communication device is designed with multi-functionality, capable of handling various communication protocols and signal types through a single connection interface. This universal design reduces cable requirements while maintaining comprehensive communication capabilities across different frequency bands and protocols.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed are an antenna assembly, a vehicle comprising the antenna assembly, and a method for installing the antenna assembly. The present disclosure relates to an antenna assembly installed on a vehicle. The antenna assembly may comprise: an antenna unit which is installed on one surface of a plate of a vehicle; a hinge unit which has one end connected to the antenna unit, penetrates the plate, and comprises a hinge structure; and a communication device which is connected to another end of the hinge unit.