Pivoted Or Rotatable Patents (Class 343/882)
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Patent number: 6812904Abstract: A radar antenna system comprises a wheel, cone or frustum having an axis. The wheel, cone or frustum has a circumferential portion adapted to engage at least one path disposed on a platform for revolving the radar array about the platform. A radar array is mounted on the wheel, cone or frustum, with the axis normal to a face of the radar array. The wheel, cone or frustum rotates about the platform as the radar array revolves around the platform during operation.Type: GrantFiled: April 10, 2002Date of Patent: November 2, 2004Assignee: Lockheed Martin CorporationInventor: Byron W. Tietjen
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Patent number: 6789307Abstract: Methods for aligning a satellite reflector with an antenna that has a feed/LNBF assembly. The feed/LNBF assembly is electronically coupled to a set top box which is electronically coupled to a television that has a television speaker. A transmitter is placed adjacent the television speaker. The speaker transmits the audio tones emitted by the television speaker which are indicative to the alignment of the antenna with a satellite to a speaker located adjacent to or attached to the antenna or antenna support structures.Type: GrantFiled: December 11, 2001Date of Patent: September 14, 2004Assignee: BellSouth Intellectual Property CorporationInventors: William R. Matz, Timothy H. Weaver
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Publication number: 20040150574Abstract: The invention relates to a steerable antenna platform including two independently controllable motors for rotating a flat plate or a parabolic dish antenna about two perpendicular axes. The antenna platform includes a semicircular yoke rotatable about a fixed axes with bearings mounted on either end thereof for pivotally supporting the antenna. The antenna platform also includes a ball joint for supporting the center of the antenna, enabling a reduction in the requirements of the two motors.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 8, 2004Publication date: August 5, 2004Inventor: Brian A. Harron
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Publication number: 20040135735Abstract: A system for stabilizing two antennas on a mobile platform, the antennas including a first antenna associated with a first geo-stationary satellite and a second antenna associated with a second geo-stationary satellite, the system comprising an upper alignment system and a lower alignment system. The upper alignment system is configured for being a common support for the antennas. The upper alignment system has an intermediate element. The upper alignment system is configured for pointing the antennas relative to the intermediate element, such that the angular displacement between the antennas is matched with the angular displacement between the satellites. The lower alignment system is connected to the upper alignment system and the mobile platform. The lower alignment system is configured for maintaining the orientation of the intermediate element in order to compensate for rotation of the mobile platform, such that the antennas are maintained pointing toward their respective satellites.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 17, 2003Publication date: July 15, 2004Applicant: Orbit Communication LimitedInventors: Guy Naym, Nathan A. Levy
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Patent number: 6762731Abstract: The present invention discloses a rotation apparatus of a dish antenna for adjusting a dish antenna to direct to a satellite. The rotation apparatus of the dish antenna includes an elevation bracket and a dish bracket. The elevation bracket includes two wings, a base and a cover, where the two wings are approximately parallel, the base connects the bottoms of the two wings and is approximately perpendicularly to them, and the cover is approximately perpendicularly connected to the front end of the base. The dish bracket includes a top plate and an arc plate, where the top plate includes at least one concentric groove, and the arc plate having at least one arc groove is approximately perpendicularly connected to top plate.Type: GrantFiled: January 28, 2003Date of Patent: July 13, 2004Assignee: Microelectronics Technology Inc.Inventor: Wen-Pin Chou
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Publication number: 20040113861Abstract: A support structure (10) for supporting a plurality of antennas (11) has a plurality of antenna supports (13) each for supporting at least one antenna (11). Each antenna support (13) is supported for rotation about an axis of rotation. At least one antenna support (13) is selectively rotatable with respect to the or each other antenna support (13) such that an antenna (11) supported by said at least one antenna support (13) rotates therewith.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 21, 2003Publication date: June 17, 2004Inventors: Timothy Jackson, Esen Bayar, Stephen Field
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Patent number: 6737938Abstract: A phase shifter includes upper and lower conductive plates, and a dielectric strip sandwiched between the conductive plates, and a plurality of slots formed in the upper conductive plate, thereby forming a dielectric line. A rotator is positioned at either side of the dielectric strip so that the distance from the rotator to the dielectric strip varies as the rotator rotates. As the rotator rotates, the phase constant of the dielectric line progressively changes in the direction of electromagnetic propagation. The rotation of the rotator causes a change in feed phase with respect to the slots as the rotator rotates, thereby performing beam scanning.Type: GrantFiled: April 5, 2002Date of Patent: May 18, 2004Assignee: Murata Manufacturing Co., Ltd.Inventors: Nobumasa Kitamori, Toshiro Hiratsuka
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Patent number: 6714170Abstract: A satellite dish assembly is mounted on the exterior of a vehicle. The dish assembly is in its traveling position while the vehicle is traveling from one place to another. The satellite dish is below the uppermost portion of the vehicle while in the assembly's traveling position. The satellite dish assembly raises and the aims the dish towards a transmitting satellite after the vehicle reaches its destination. One motor raises the satellite dish with a telescoping mast. Two other motors adjust the direction the dish is facing by rotating and tilting the dish on top of the mast. The satellite dish receives the signals from the transmitting satellite and communicates the signals into the vehicle. The motors are used to reposition the satellite dish in its traveling position before the vehicle starts for its next destination.Type: GrantFiled: August 28, 2002Date of Patent: March 30, 2004Inventor: Robert Kleinschmidt
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Patent number: 6709184Abstract: An apparatus for mounting a receiver mast to a structure. The apparatus includes a structure attachment plate, a releasable attachment member, a movable plate releasably attached to the structure attachment plate by the releasable attachment member for movement with respect to the structure attachment plate and a mast fastener for affixing the receiver mast to the movable plate. A leg member may be provided for attaching the structure attachment plate to the structure. A method for mounting a receiver mast to a structure is also disclosed. An assembly mounted to a structure for receiving a signal is also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: December 20, 1999Date of Patent: March 23, 2004Assignee: BellSouth Intellectual Property Corp.Inventor: Timothy J. McDonald
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Patent number: 6697026Abstract: A satellite antenna alignment device is provided which includes a base plate having a semi-globular-shaped member of dome secured thereto and extending upwardly therefrom which defines a sealed compartment which is filled with a liquid or gaseous medium. An indicator is positioned within the sealed compartment. The exterior surface of the dome is provided with elevational and skew angle indicia thereon. The device enables the antenna to be quickly and easily elevated to the proper elevation and skewed to the proper skew angle.Type: GrantFiled: March 11, 2002Date of Patent: February 24, 2004Inventor: Robert J. Hemmingsen, II
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Publication number: 20040027307Abstract: A support for at least two panel antennas constituting relay antennas in at least one cellular telecommunications network, the support comprising a mast (1) and means for fixing said two antennas to the mast (1), said means being suitable for allowing the orientation of said antennas to be adjusted in tilt and in azimuth, the support being characterized in that said fixing means comprise, for at least one antenna (2), means (21) that define for said antenna a pivot pin (31) that is eccentric relative to the axis of the mast (1) and such that pivoting the antenna (2) about said pin enables the azimuth orientation of the antenna to be modified.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 28, 2003Publication date: February 12, 2004Inventor: Safakhah Hossein
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Patent number: 6664937Abstract: A mounting assembly for attaching a radio or antenna to a support includes a base having a contact member, and a first adjustment component pivotally mounted to the base for pivoting about a first adjustment component pivot axis. The first adjustment component has at least two adjustment members located on opposite sides of the pivot axis which contact the contact member when the first adjustment component is in a locked position.Type: GrantFiled: June 13, 2002Date of Patent: December 16, 2003Inventors: Louis R. Vermette, Kenneth E. Clayton
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Patent number: 6657598Abstract: An alignment mechanism to assist in antenna alignment is described. The alignment mechanism has a first attachment element for removably attaching to an antenna mounting member, a threaded sleeve member affixed to the first attachment element, a threaded bushing for threadably engaging the threaded sleeve member, and a handle member provided for rotating the threaded bushing. A second attachment element is provided for removably attaching to an antenna mounting base member. The second attachment element is operatively connected to the threaded bushing. A biasing member is adapted for biasing the first attachment member apart from the second attachment member. An adjustment member is threadably connected to the second attachment element and operatively connected to the threaded bushing, the adjustment member for selectively adjusting an axial distance between the first attachment member and the second attachment member.Type: GrantFiled: October 12, 2001Date of Patent: December 2, 2003Assignee: Andrew CorporationInventor: Tom Tulloch
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Patent number: 6653979Abstract: An antenna for a PC card is provided. The antenna of the present invention includes a shaft, a hinge and a nub. The shaft has a first end and a second end where the hinge is disposed intermediate the first end and the second end of the antenna at an angle relative to the PC card. The nub, which is disposed at the second end of the shaft, includes a gripping surface for gripping by a user during deployment of the antenna. The gripping surface is disposed at the angle relative to the hinge such that as a user rotates the antenna during deployment, the antenna properly deploys.Type: GrantFiled: October 2, 2001Date of Patent: November 25, 2003Assignee: Sierra Wireless, Inc.Inventors: Simon Au, Christopher Michael Chan-Henry, Norman Toms
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Publication number: 20030214454Abstract: An antenna system comprises a Gatelink antenna (1), a Satcom Ku antenna (2), a Satcom Inmarsat antenna (3) positioned on a support that is mobile (5) in rotation and/or in translation and a device for the protection (6) of the antennas. Application to an airliner.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 8, 2003Publication date: November 20, 2003Inventor: Gilles Quagliaro
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Patent number: 6646620Abstract: A wave guide scanner assembly having an oscillating support for a scanning antenna which is driven by an assembly having no contacting components. The scanner assembly is particularly useful for motor vehicular collision warning systems. The drive assembly for the oscillating support includes a coil and magnet for driving the support when current is applied thereby resulting in translational movement of the magnet and oscillating movement of the support. A spring flexure assembly is connected to the support for providing controlled harmonic oscillation to the support and antenna.Type: GrantFiled: August 13, 2001Date of Patent: November 11, 2003Assignee: Yazaki North America, Inc.Inventors: John E. Bjornholt, Doug W. Taylor
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Patent number: 6646612Abstract: An antenna device for wireless LAN of the present invention includes a base module and an antenna case that receives a built-in antenna therein. A metal reflector plate is held in a base element of the base module. The reflector plate functions to widen the range of directivity of the antenna device and thus ensures stable communication for wireless LAN. The antenna case is pivotable to the base module. The antenna is adjustable to a desired angle according to the requirement, so as to attain communication for wireless LAN.Type: GrantFiled: May 13, 2002Date of Patent: November 11, 2003Assignee: Melco Inc.Inventors: Wataru Noguchi, Nagahiro Matsuura
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Patent number: 6633266Abstract: An antenna system adapted to be mounted on an exterior surface of a mobile platform and having a reduced overall height to reduce aerodynamic drag caused by the antenna system. The antenna system includes a movable platform disposed concentrically within an annular stationary platform. The movable platform includes a slip ring assembly formed on its lower surface which is in physical contact with a brush assembly supported from a lower surface of the stationary platform. By locating the slip ring assembly and the brush assembly adjacent the lower surface of the movable platform, the overall height of the antenna is reduced. Reliability is also improved since contaminants are less likely to accumulate on the slip ring assembly due to its presence on the lower surface of the movable platform.Type: GrantFiled: March 13, 2002Date of Patent: October 14, 2003Assignee: The Boeing CompanyInventors: Albert Louis Blen, Glen J. Desargant
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Patent number: 6630912Abstract: A pod mount assembly 20 is configured in a folding quad pod design with four ground-engaging legs 22, 24, 26, 28, and a rotatable central column 30. The ground-engaging legs rotatably connect to the base of the central column 30. The central column 30 contains a telescoping central shaft 32. The central column 30 is rotatable from a horizontal position into a vertical position. The telescopic shaft 32 is extendable upward from a retracted position within the central column 30 into a extended position there above. The pod mount assembly 20 includes a hydraulic pump and cylinder to rotate the central column 30 and extend the telescopic shaft 32. The unique folding and collapsible design of the pod mount assembly 20 creates a small form factor for high mobility and ease of deployment. The pod mount assembly 20 acts as the mounting base for an antenna assembly 10.Type: GrantFiled: March 20, 2001Date of Patent: October 7, 2003Assignee: NeTune Communications, Inc.Inventors: Robert G. Ehrenberg, Michael Sorensen
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Patent number: 6580399Abstract: An antenna system is provided for a satellite. This may include a main reflector (100), a subreflector (110), a boom including a first boom component (88) to support said main reflector and a second boom component (86) to support the subreflector. The first boom component may include a first main support (130), a fitting (150), and a second main support (140). The fitting may couple the first main support and the second main support. A positioning mechanism (120) may be provided within the fitting to support the main reflector. The positioning mechanism may be capable of adjusting a position of the main reflector.Type: GrantFiled: January 11, 2002Date of Patent: June 17, 2003Assignee: Northrop Grumman CorporationInventors: Bruce D. Ballinger, Jeffrey P. Michaels, Steven W. Lee
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Patent number: 6559805Abstract: There is disclosed an antenna apparatus used for satellite communication or the like and including an antenna rotating in an azimuth angle direction and an elevation angle direction, which can be miniaturized without using a slip ring for ensuring electrical connection between a stationary portion and a movable portion. A rotary member 3 is rotated by rotation of a motor 5 to rotate an antenna 11 about an azimuth axis. On the other hand, a motor 9 is rotated to rotate a rotary member 7, and a relative rotary shaft 14 is rotated by relative rotation between the rotary member 3 and the rotary member 7. The rotation of the relative rotary shaft 14 rotates the antenna 11 about an elevation angle axis by rotation transmission through a bevel gear 18 and a bevel gear 19.Type: GrantFiled: November 8, 2001Date of Patent: May 6, 2003Assignee: Mitsubishi Denki Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Hidetaka Yamauchi, Ichiro Shirokawa, Tomoaki Fukushima
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Publication number: 20030071762Abstract: An alignment mechanism to assist in antenna alignment is described. The alignment mechanism has a first attachment element for removably attaching to an antenna mounting member, a threaded sleeve member affixed to the first attachment element, a threaded bushing for threadably engaging the threaded sleeve member, and a handle member provided for rotating the threaded bushing. A second attachment element is provided for removably attaching to an antenna mounting base member. The second attachment element is operatively connected to the threaded bushing. A biasing member is adapted for biasing the first attachment member apart from the second attachment member. An adjustment member is threadably connected to the second attachment element and operatively connected to the threaded bushing, the adjustment member for selectively adjusting an axial distance between the first attachment member and the second attachment member.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 12, 2001Publication date: April 17, 2003Inventor: Tom Tulloch
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Patent number: 6535178Abstract: There is provided an antenna device having a learning function and capable of searching and memorizing wireless frequency bands. A control circuit is used to automatically control the receiving angle and direction of an antenna set. When the strongest frequency band is found by the antenna set, a remote control is used to control the circuit for recording the current angle and direction into a memory unit. Afterwards, a user can directly select a pre-stored band identification number to conveniently adjust the antenna device to have the best receiving angle and direction the corresponding capable of receiving the band, thereby decreasing the time to adjust the antenna.Type: GrantFiled: October 23, 2001Date of Patent: March 18, 2003Inventor: Cheng-Si Wang
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Patent number: 6535177Abstract: A method of pointing a fixed antenna (2) having a reflector (10) and at least one transceiver source suitable for aiming at a plurality of satellites situated between two extreme positions S1, S2 on a geostationary orbit (8).Type: GrantFiled: August 8, 2001Date of Patent: March 18, 2003Assignee: Manufacture d'Appareillage Electrique de CahorsInventors: Olivier Dhellemmes, Frederic Laplace-Treyture
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Patent number: 6531990Abstract: A gimbal system is used for supporting and enabling the orientation of a circular satellite antenna dish in azimuth and elevation. The gimbal system includes a hoop structure, the ends of which are connected to the antenna dish. The dish is pivotally supported on the hoop structure for pivotal motion about its “X” axis. The hoop structure is mounted for rotation about the “Y” axis of the dish. The central axis of the hoop is coincidental with the central axis of the antenna. The hoop is driven by means of a motor to rotate the hoop and the antenna dish along therewith between a first position whereat the “Y” axis of the antenna is in its normal initial at rest (Y axis zero position) and a second position wherein the “Y” axis is rotated approximately eighty degrees from this initial position. A second motor is coupled to the antenna at one of the ends of the hoop structure to drive the dish about its “X” axis.Type: GrantFiled: June 12, 2001Date of Patent: March 11, 2003Assignee: Datron Advanced Technologies, Inc.Inventor: Neil Verkerk
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Patent number: 6512492Abstract: This application is directed to a spring loaded antenna mounting system for the directional antennae of a point-to-multipoint millimeter wave communications system and methods of supporting such antennae for selectively directing the beam thereof. Also disclosed is the adjustment of such antennae in two orthogonal directions. In addition quick connect/disconnect latch for attaching the individual antenna element to the antennae mount is disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: June 28, 2001Date of Patent: January 28, 2003Assignee: Harris Broadband Wireless Access, Inc.Inventor: Steven R. Overton
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Patent number: 6512490Abstract: The present invention relates to a portable satellite antenna which is capable of implementing an accurate horizontal and vertical direction movement of a satellite antenna using a worm gear method and a screw type guide as a horizontal and vertical direction rotation unit of a satellite antenna and preventing an entangling phenomenon of an electric wire even when an antenna is rotated in a horizontal direction.Type: GrantFiled: December 14, 2001Date of Patent: January 28, 2003Assignees: IDS CorporationInventor: Dae-Il Lee
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Publication number: 20020196195Abstract: A mounting assembly for attaching a radio or antenna to a support includes a base having a contact member, and a first adjustment component pivotally mounted to the base for pivoting about a first adjustment component pivot axis. The first adjustment component has at least two adjustment members located on opposite sides of the pivot axis which contact the contact member when the first adjustment component is in a locked position.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 13, 2002Publication date: December 26, 2002Inventors: Louis R. Vermette, Kenneth E. Clayton
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Patent number: 6486834Abstract: An antenna assembly (20) is mounted on a metal hinge base (16) of an electronic device, and includes a printed circuit board (PCB) (22), an antenna (24), a metal sheet (26) and a coaxial cable (28). The PCB has a first surface (221) and a second surface (223) parallel to and spaced a distance from the first surface. The antenna and the metal sheet are respectively disposed on the first surface and the second surface of the PCB. The metal hinge base has a metal block (162) connecting with the metal sheet. The cable has a conductive core wire (282) and a ground shield (284) around the core wire. The core wire and the ground shield respectively electrically connect with the antenna and the metal sheet.Type: GrantFiled: December 18, 2000Date of Patent: November 26, 2002Assignee: Hon Hai Precision Ind. Co., Ltd.Inventor: Szu-Nan Tsai
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Patent number: 6486845Abstract: An antenna apparatus is provided with two parabolic antennas which are attached to an X-axis and adapted to independently rotate about the X-axis. The X-axis is supported between both ends of a support rail in the shape of a semicircular arc to pass through the center of the arc. The support rail is adapted to slide and is thereby permitted to rotate about the central axis of the arc as a Y-axis. The support rail is placed on a rotating base 13 adapted to rotate about a Z-axis. The entire apparatus is covered with a radome. Each of the parabolic antennas is therefore permitted to rotate about each of the X, Y and Z-axes. By controlling each axis driving mechanism according to the locations and orbits of two satellites, each of the parabolic antennas is permitted to track a respective one of the satellites.Type: GrantFiled: March 20, 2001Date of Patent: November 26, 2002Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha ToshibaInventors: Takaya Ogawa, Kiyoko Tokunaga, Noriaki Miyano
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Patent number: 6486842Abstract: A joint assembly provided to an end portion of antenna rod is placed between supporting portions of an antenna base. A click cylinder is then introduced into a hole of the supporting portion to engage recess and convex portions formed on a plate as an end surface of the click cylinder and an inner sursurface of the joint assembly, thereby generate click resistance. A coil spring is inserted into the click cylinder thereafter, then a bolt is introduced into the click cylinder through a washer. The bolt is screwed with a nut via a wave washer, a washer, and a spring washer.Type: GrantFiled: June 6, 2001Date of Patent: November 26, 2002Assignee: Harada Industry Co., Ltd.Inventor: Jinsong Wang
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Patent number: 6480172Abstract: An apparatus and method for rigidly supporting an antenna mast or other object relative to a structure in a desired position. The apparatus may comprise a first bracket that is affixable to the structure and a second bracket that is slidably affixed to the first bracket and capable of being locked in a desired position relative to the first bracket. A mast-supporting or object-supporting collar or clamp may be rotatably and slidably affixed to the second bracket and is capable of being locked in a desired position relative to the second bracket.Type: GrantFiled: December 20, 1999Date of Patent: November 12, 2002Assignee: BellSouth Intellectual Property CorporationInventor: Charlie C. Sawyer
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Publication number: 20020149536Abstract: A relay antenna mast for a cellular radio telecommunications system, the mast being characterized in that it comprises:Type: ApplicationFiled: May 2, 2002Publication date: October 17, 2002Inventor: Hossein Safakhah
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Patent number: 6466181Abstract: An antenna mast for a multi-satellite system includes a base mounted at a lower end of the mast. The base is intended to be mounted to a surface. The antenna mast has a first adjustment mechanism that allows the mast to be adjusted in a y-direction. The antenna mast also has a second adjustment mechanism that allows the mast to be adjusted in an x-direction such that the uppermost portion of the antenna mast is straight.Type: GrantFiled: June 27, 2001Date of Patent: October 15, 2002Assignee: Hughes Electronics CorporationInventors: Kesse Ho, Frank C. Accardo
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Patent number: 6462718Abstract: A collapsible, steerable antenna system 10 is configured for rapid deployment that is highly accurate and sophisticated, yet easy to assemble. The antenna system 10 includes a pod mount assembly 20, a steering head controller assembly 40, a back frame 60, a dish assembly 100, a feed leg assembly 120, a horn mount assembly 160, and a horn assembly 180. The pod mount assembly 20 includes a plurality of ground engaging pod legs and a telescopic shaft which lifts and supports the controller assembly 40. The controller assembly 40 selectively engages with the back frame 60 and aligns the dish assembly 100 via the back frame 60. The back frame 60 engages and supports the dish assembly 100 to help minimize parametric distortion of the dish assembly 100. The dish assembly 100 includes a plurality of wedge-shaped pieces which connect to form the dish assembly. The feed leg assembly 120 includes a main feed leg and side feed legs. The horn mount assembly 160 connects the horn assembly 180 to the main feed leg.Type: GrantFiled: March 20, 2001Date of Patent: October 8, 2002Assignee: NeTune Communications, Inc.Inventors: Robert G. Ehrenberg, Michael Sorensen
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Publication number: 20020140620Abstract: There is disclosed an antenna apparatus used for satellite communication or the like and including an antenna rotating in an azimuth angle direction and an elevation angle direction, which can be miniaturized without using a slip ring for ensuring electrical connection between a stationary portion and a movable portion. A rotary member 3 is rotated by rotation of a motor 5 to rotate an antenna 11 about an azimuth axis. On the other hand, a motor 9 is rotated to rotate a rotary member 7, and a relative rotary shaft 14 is rotated by relative rotation between the rotary member 3 and the rotary member 7. The rotation of the relative rotary shaft 14 rotates the antenna 11 about an elevation angle axis by rotation transmission through a bevel gear 18 and a bevel gear 19.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 8, 2001Publication date: October 3, 2002Applicant: MITSUBISHI DENKI KABUSHIKI KAISHAInventors: Hidetaka Yamauchi, Ichiro Shirokawa, Tomoaki Fukushima
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Patent number: 6452567Abstract: A spring loaded antenna mounting system for the directional antennae of a point-to-multipoint millimeter wave communication system and methods of supporting such antennae for selectively directing the beam thereof. The adjustment of the antenna in two orthogonal directions is disclosed as is a quick connect/disconnect latch for attaching the individual antenna element to the antenna mount.Type: GrantFiled: June 28, 2001Date of Patent: September 17, 2002Assignee: Harris Broadband Wireless Access, Inc.Inventor: Steven R. Overton
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Patent number: 6448940Abstract: An antenna deployment system for use in storing and deploying three antennas that are located on the same side of a spacecraft or other fixed body. The three antennas are nested and are stacked in a stowed condition and are individually and sequentially deployed to their respective deployed positions. One or more feed horns are attached to the spacecraft or fixed body that illuminate the respective antennas. A dual axis deployment mechanism is used to deploy each antenna. The dual axis deployment mechanism is also used to steer the beam produced by the antenna. The dual axis deployment mechanism comprises a dual-axis rotatable hinge structure affixed to the spacecraft or fixed body that is coupled to the antenna by way of a substantially rigid reflector support structure. The dual axis deployment mechanism is actuated and controlled to deploy the antenna and steer the antenna beam.Type: GrantFiled: March 20, 2001Date of Patent: September 10, 2002Assignee: Space Systems/Loral, Inc.Inventor: Jason J. Chiang
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Patent number: 6445361Abstract: A rotation apparatus for a dish antenna provides a system for easily adjusting the dish antenna to a precise receiving position. The rotation apparatus includes a dish bracket which is fixed to the back of the dish antenna. The dish bracket includes a plurality of circular grooves and a concentric axle center. An elevation bracket includes a pair of wings and a bottom. The wings are parallel, and the bottom is perpendicular to the wings. Each wing pivots about an axle which passes through a first portion of each wing. A second portion of each wing includes a guide groove to adjust a elevation angle of the dish. The bottom includes a central axle hole and a plurality of holes. The central axle hole is coupled to the concentric axle center. After the dish is rotated to a selected position, the plurality of holes are secured to the circular grooves using a plurality of screws.Type: GrantFiled: December 11, 2000Date of Patent: September 3, 2002Assignee: Acer Neweb Corp.Inventors: Eric Liu, Cosine Guo, Jeffrey Gau
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Patent number: 6429817Abstract: An antenna system that may be used in a portable radiotelephone. In one embodiment, an antenna is housed within a first housing portion and is extended therefrom when a second portion of the housing is pivoted to an open position relative to the first housing portion. The antenna is retracted back into the first housing portion when the second housing portion is pivoted to a closed position relative to the first housing portion. In another embodiment, the second housing portion is slidably affixed to the first housing portion and the antenna is extended from the first housing portion when the second housing portion is moved relative to an open position relative to the first housing portion and the antenna is retracted into the first housing portion when the second housing portion is moved into a closed position relative to the first housing portion.Type: GrantFiled: October 3, 2000Date of Patent: August 6, 2002Assignee: BellSouth Intellectual Property CorporationInventors: George S. Creigh, Michelle D. Liviccori
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Patent number: 6424314Abstract: A support for a deployable reflector for use on a modular satellite antenna assembly is constructed of an elongated boom supported at both ends by a pair of two axis actuators. The boom is attached at its inboard end to the satellite structure in close proximity to the point of attachment of the associated signal feed assembly to minimize the differential thermal stress throughout the antenna assembly.Type: GrantFiled: May 16, 2001Date of Patent: July 23, 2002Assignee: Space Systems/Loral, Inc.Inventors: Varouj G. Baghdasarian, Colin Francis
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Publication number: 20020084948Abstract: A portable alignment device for orienting an antenna in a desired azimuth orientation and methods for orienting an antenna in a desired azimuth orientation. In one embodiment, the device comprises a portable motor until that is removably affixed to a portion of the antenna such as a portion of the antenna mounting bracket. A gear assembly is clamped to a portion of a mast to which the antenna mounting bracket is attached. The gear assembly is in meshing engagement with a driver gear attached to the motor's output shaft. By powering the motor, the antenna is pivoted about the mast until is moved to a desired azimuth orientation. After the antenna has been oriented to a desired orientation and locked in that orientation, the portable motor unit is removed from the antenna and the gear assembly is removed from the mast to permit those devices to be used to orient other antennas.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 29, 2000Publication date: July 4, 2002Inventor: P. Thomas Watson
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Patent number: 6407714Abstract: A drive mechanism for an antenna array mounted on a moving vehicle. The antenna array is mounted on a disc having two motors which, cooperatively, rotate the disc and rotate a number of antenna elements mounted on the disc. By rotating the antenna elements, the main lobe of the array may be scanned towards a satellite in the elevation plane. To track a moving source from a moving vehicle, one of the motors rotates the disc as a whole, thereby scanning the beam in the azimuth plane. Each antenna element is at an angle to the vertical so that, by rotating the disc to face the direction of the signal source, such as a satellite, a better signal can be obtained.Type: GrantFiled: June 22, 2001Date of Patent: June 18, 2002Assignee: EMS Technologies Canada, Ltd.Inventors: Derek A. Butler, Michael R. Martin, Peter C. Strickland
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Patent number: 6407713Abstract: The invention relates to an alignment apparatus, with which an instrument to be aligned is mounted on a supporting structure (S) and which comprises a body section (10) mounted on the supporting structure, vertically and horizontally alignable alignment sections (20, 30), of which the first is mounted on the body section and the second is used for mounting the instrument to be aligned, and horizontal and vertical alignment means (40, 50) to align the alignment sections. To facilitate the alignment, the alignment means comprise threaded bolts (40, 50) connecting sections turning in relation to each other, which bolts are arranged to turn in each section turning in relation to each other so that each end (41, 42 and 51, 52) of the threaded bolts projects from the turning sections and each projecting end is provided with means (43, 44, 53, 54) enabling the turning of the threaded bolts.Type: GrantFiled: May 14, 2001Date of Patent: June 18, 2002Assignee: Nokia Networks OyInventor: Atte Mallenius
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Patent number: 6404405Abstract: An apparatus for mounting a satellite dish having a mounting bracket in a window jam opening for a window frame with no physical intervention in the frame casing or jams. A mounting board having a length corresponding to the width of the window jam opening and having a width corresponding to the width of the mounting bracket is provided. At least one tensioning member rigidly is connected to said mounting board such that tensioning the tensioning member releasably fastens said mounting board within the window jam opening. In the preferred embodiment, two tensioning members are provided. The apparatus is positioned on the outside of the window. The window can be opened and closed without interference from said apparatus. The mounted board features at least one slot such that water is prevented from accumulating behind said mounting board and the window and wherein a cable from the dish may be inserted therethrough.Type: GrantFiled: June 14, 2001Date of Patent: June 11, 2002Inventor: Mitchell Wanat
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Patent number: 6404400Abstract: A reflector-type microwave antenna having a paraboloidal reflector having a focal point and a feed horn located at the focal point. The feed horn is adapted to launch microwave signals onto the reflector and to receive microwave reflectors from the reflector. The reflector is mounted onto a surface by a mounting assembly comprising a mounting pipe in a fixed location relative to the mounting surface, a mounting cylinder rotatably affixed to the mounting pipe, and a mounting collar affixed to the mounting cylinder. A mounting plate is affixed to both the mounting collar and to the reflector such that a movement of the mounting collar causes the reflector to move, as well. The mounting assembly also has an azimuth coarse adjuster which engages the mounting cylinder such that the mounting cylinder may be rotated in azimuth relative to the mounting pipe. Once the mounting cylinder is in position, a locking mechanism is utilized to lock the mounting cylinder in position.Type: GrantFiled: January 30, 2001Date of Patent: June 11, 2002Assignee: Andrew CorporationInventor: Thomas Tulloch
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Patent number: 6400324Abstract: A hand-held communication device with an automatically oriented antenna fixed thereto and including a closed container at least partially filled with liquid. A floating element including a patch antenna is positioned within the cavity and carried by the liquid so as to maintain the patch antenna in a continuous orientation. An electrical coupling is formed between the patch antenna and the hand-held communication device to operatively couple the patch antenna for receiving transmissions in the hand-held communication device.Type: GrantFiled: January 4, 2001Date of Patent: June 4, 2002Assignee: Motorola, Inc.Inventor: Juan H. Macias
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Patent number: 6390435Abstract: A mast base comprises a rigid body (10) and four supporting legs (15), extending laterally from the body (10) in mutually diverging directions. Each supporting leg (15) comprises an upper arm (17) and a lower arm (18). At its inner end, each arm (17, 18) is pivotally connected to the body (10) for pivoting movement relatively to the body around an appurtenant horizontal pivot axis (x1, x2). At their outer ends, the two arms (17, 18) are pivotally connected to each other. At least one arm (18) has a variable length. The upper arm (17) of each one of two supporting legs (15), which are located at mutually opposite sides of the body (10) and extend in mutually opposite directions therefrom, is pivotally connected to the body (10) by means to two separate pivot joints (19), which are located at a substantial horizontal distance from each other.Type: GrantFiled: April 10, 2000Date of Patent: May 21, 2002Assignee: Cue Dee Produkter ABInventor: Karl Martin Gustafsson
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Patent number: 6384800Abstract: Apparatuses, methods and systems for mesh integration and tension control, mesh retention, and mesh management of mesh-type deployable reflectors. The mesh members are comprised of a plurality of wedge-shaped gore members, each of which are pre-tensioned initially utilizing double-sided tape in a temporary manner prior to final stitching. String-like chord catenary members are positioned in pockets formed on the outer end of the gore members. The mesh member is attached to a ribbed reflector frame structure through a plurality of nodal assembly mechanisms. The nodal assemblies have spring biasing members for tensioning radial and transverse chord members along the reflector surface. A plurality of string-like members positioned in washers on the mesh member are used to maintain a tension field in the mesh member when the reflector is in its collapsed and stowed condition.Type: GrantFiled: November 28, 2000Date of Patent: May 7, 2002Assignee: Hughes Electronics Corp.Inventors: Samir F. Bassily, Joseph Uribe
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Patent number: 6366255Abstract: Deployable antenna systems for use on a spacecraft that is moveable from a stowed position to a deployed position. Two embodiments are disclosed that include one or two sets of main reflector assembly (and optional adjustment mechanism) and subreflectors. The antenna systems include a feed horn assembly fixedly attached to the spacecraft and a rotatable hinge attached to the spacecraft. A substantially rigid reflector support structure is attached to the hinge and rotates about a hinge axis. The main reflector assembly (and optional adjustment mechanism) is attached to a lower portion of the support structure and the subreflector is attached to an upper portion of the support structure. The subreflector has a fixed relation relative to the main reflector assembly and has a fixed relation relative to the feed horn assembly when the antenna system is in the deployed position so that the antenna systems generate predetermined beam coverage patterns.Type: GrantFiled: September 15, 2000Date of Patent: April 2, 2002Assignee: Space Systems/Loral, Inc.Inventor: Jason J. Chiang