Abstract: In an integrated telescoping mast-payload assembly, the payload forms the top telescoping section.

Abstract: A telescoping multi-sectional mast in which the upper sections are extended and retracted in a controlled predetermined sequence and in which each section, when fully extended, is automatically and positively locked to the next lower section.The improved locking system includes a lock projection-lock engagement pair, one of the pair being carried on the outer surface of each of the upper sections of the mast and the other of the pair being carried on the upper ends of each of the intermediate sections. A lock actuator stud is carried on the upper end of each of the intermediate and bottom sections. This pair cooperates to operatively lock together in response to disengagement with the actuator stud carried on the next lower mast section, to restrain relative vertical movement between an upper section which is fully extended from the next lower section. The pair unlocks in response to engagement with the actuator stud carried by the next lower section.

Abstract: A telescoping multi-sectional mast in which the upper sections are extended and retracted in a controlled predetermined sequence an in which each section, when fully extended, is automatically and positively locked to the next lower section. The improved locking system includes a lock bar near the lower end of each lower section, a locking assembly on the upper end of each intermediate section and a lock actuator stud on the upper ends of each of the intermediate and bottom sections. The lock assembly includes an inwardly projecting collar, and rotatable disk having a locking projection segment formed on its periphery, a toggle responsive to vertical movement of the lock bar and stop actuated by the toggle for controlling rotation of the lock disk. The lock actuator stud and lock disk have mating engageable cam surfaces to cause and control rotation of the disk in response to vertical movement of each upper section relative to the next lower section.

Abstract: A radio transmission antenna system and method of transmitting radio signals.The antenna system includes an array of separately rotatable directional antennas which are spaced along an azimuth line. The antennas are rotated to direct their respective major lopes of transmitted rf energy along parallel lines in a selected direction relative to the azimuth line. Two separate adjustments are made to the phase of identical rf signals which are fed to each antenna in the array.A first phase adjustment is made when required to produce a coherent wave-front transmitted in the selected direction. This first phase adjustment shifts the phase of the signals fed to adjacent antennas in the array by 180.degree.. This adjustment establishes a radiation pattern in any given azimuth quadrant which records major lobes, established by rotating the antennas, at 0.degree. and 90.degree. relative to the azimuth line and at least one intermediate angle between 0.degree. and 90.degree..