AU2021102868A4 - Collapsible Mast - Google Patents
Collapsible Mast Download PDFInfo
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- AU2021102868A4 AU2021102868A4 AU2021102868A AU2021102868A AU2021102868A4 AU 2021102868 A4 AU2021102868 A4 AU 2021102868A4 AU 2021102868 A AU2021102868 A AU 2021102868A AU 2021102868 A AU2021102868 A AU 2021102868A AU 2021102868 A4 AU2021102868 A4 AU 2021102868A4
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- Prior art keywords
- mast
- component
- vertical
- vertical component
- components
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
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Classifications
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
- H01Q—ANTENNAS, i.e. RADIO AERIALS
- H01Q1/00—Details of, or arrangements associated with, antennas
- H01Q1/12—Supports; Mounting means
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04H—BUILDINGS OR LIKE STRUCTURES FOR PARTICULAR PURPOSES; SWIMMING OR SPLASH BATHS OR POOLS; MASTS; FENCING; TENTS OR CANOPIES, IN GENERAL
- E04H12/00—Towers; Masts or poles; Chimney stacks; Water-towers; Methods of erecting such structures
- E04H12/18—Towers; Masts or poles; Chimney stacks; Water-towers; Methods of erecting such structures movable or with movable sections, e.g. rotatable or telescopic
- E04H12/187—Towers; Masts or poles; Chimney stacks; Water-towers; Methods of erecting such structures movable or with movable sections, e.g. rotatable or telescopic with hinged sections
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- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F21—LIGHTING
- F21V—FUNCTIONAL FEATURES OR DETAILS OF LIGHTING DEVICES OR SYSTEMS THEREOF; STRUCTURAL COMBINATIONS OF LIGHTING DEVICES WITH OTHER ARTICLES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- F21V21/00—Supporting, suspending, or attaching arrangements for lighting devices; Hand grips
- F21V21/14—Adjustable mountings
- F21V21/145—Adjustable mountings for portable lighting devices
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F21—LIGHTING
- F21V—FUNCTIONAL FEATURES OR DETAILS OF LIGHTING DEVICES OR SYSTEMS THEREOF; STRUCTURAL COMBINATIONS OF LIGHTING DEVICES WITH OTHER ARTICLES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- F21V21/00—Supporting, suspending, or attaching arrangements for lighting devices; Hand grips
- F21V21/14—Adjustable mountings
- F21V21/30—Pivoted housings or frames
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
- H01Q—ANTENNAS, i.e. RADIO AERIALS
- H01Q1/00—Details of, or arrangements associated with, antennas
- H01Q1/12—Supports; Mounting means
- H01Q1/1235—Collapsible supports; Means for erecting a rigid antenna
-
- E—FIXED CONSTRUCTIONS
- E04—BUILDING
- E04H—BUILDINGS OR LIKE STRUCTURES FOR PARTICULAR PURPOSES; SWIMMING OR SPLASH BATHS OR POOLS; MASTS; FENCING; TENTS OR CANOPIES, IN GENERAL
- E04H12/00—Towers; Masts or poles; Chimney stacks; Water-towers; Methods of erecting such structures
- E04H12/02—Structures made of specified materials
- E04H12/08—Structures made of specified materials of metal
Landscapes
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Architecture (AREA)
- Civil Engineering (AREA)
- Structural Engineering (AREA)
- Earth Drilling (AREA)
- Forklifts And Lifting Vehicles (AREA)
Abstract
Disclosed is a collapsible mast 10. The mast 10 has a plurality of interconnected mast
components 12, 13, 14, 15. Adjacent mast components 12, 13 and 14, 15 are pivotably
connected to one another. The mast 10 also has at least two electric linear actuators 42, 44
5 configured to move the mast components from a collapsed position to an erect position. The
mast components include at least two vertical components 12, 14. The vertical components
12, 14 remain in a vertical orientation when the mast 10 is moved from the collapsed position
to the erect position. The at least two vertical components 12, 14 extend or collapse relative
to one another in a respective first and second plane. The first and second planes being
.0 offset and parallel to one another so as to prevent the mast components 12, 13, 14, 15 from
colliding during collapsing.
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Description
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Collapsible mast
Technical field This disclosure relates broadly to collapsible masts, and in some embodiments specifically to collapsible communication masts.
Background Collapsible masts are used for a variety of applications that are required on a temporary basis. On mine sites, for example, collapsible masts are used for communication and .0 illumination, and the collapsible masts can be moved as required during the course of mining.
Collapsible masts are generally of the winch type. A winch type mast has pulleys and cables and require a lot of maintenance. Additionally, winch type masts are bulky. Hydraulic .5 systems can be used in place of winch type masts. A problem with hydraulic systems is that they require maintenance, they require safety systems that prevent the mast from collapsing in the event of loss of hydraulic power, and the hydraulic fluids require careful monitoring especially during times of extreme weather.
'O Current collapsible masts also tend to be bulky in the collapsed state. This means that workers carrying out maintenance on the mast still need to be elevated, for example when mounting equipment to be raised by the mast, and this can present working hazards.
It is to be understood that, if any prior art is referred to herein, such reference does not constitute an admission that the prior art forms a part of the common general knowledge in the art, in Australia or any other country.
Summary A first aspect of the disclosure provides a collapsible mast. The mast comprises a plurality of interconnected mast components, where adjacent mast components are pivotably connected to one another. The mast comprises a linear actuator configured to move the mast components from a collapsed position to an erect position. The mast components include at least two vertical components, the vertical components remaining in a vertical orientation when the mast is moved from the collapsed position to the erect position.
A further aspect of a collapsible mast, provides a plurality of interconnected mast components, where adjacent mast components are pivotably connected to one another; at least two electric linear actuators including a first electric linear actuator and a second electric linear actuator configured to erect the mast from a collapsed position to an erect position, wherein the mast components include a first mast component and a second mast component, and at least two vertical components including a first vertical component and a second vertical component, the first and second vertical components remaining in a vertical orientation when the mast is moved from the collapsed position to the erect position.
.0 A further aspect of a collapsible mast, provides a plurality of interconnected mast components, where adjacent mast components are pivotably connected to one another; at least two electric linear actuators including a first electric linear actuator and a second electric linear actuator configured to erect the mast from a collapsed position to an erect position, wherein the mast components include a first mast component and a second mast .5 component, and at least two vertical components including a first vertical component and a second vertical component, wherein the first vertical component is connected to the first mast component towards an end of the first vertical component and a first end of the first mast component, and the second vertical component is connected to the first mast component towards a first end of the second vertical component and a second end of the .0 first mast component, and the second mast component is connected to the second vertical component towards a second end of the second vertical component, wherein the first electric linear actuator is connected to the first vertical component and to the first mast component, and the second electric linear actuator is connected to the second vertical component and to the second mast component, wherein the first and second vertical components remain in a vertical orientation when the mast is moved from the collapsed position to the erect position, wherein the mast further comprises a headstock configured to remain in a vertical orientation when the mast is moved from the collapsed position to the erect position, wherein the headstock is pivotably attached to the end of the terminal mast component.
In an embodiment, the mast further comprises a first linkage between the first vertical component and the second vertical component, so as to maintain the first vertical component and the second vertical component in a vertical orientation during erection of the mast, and a second linkage between the second vertical component and the headstock to maintain the headstock in a vertical orientation when the mast is erected.
In an embodiment, the first linkage is pivotably connected to the first vertical component and the second vertical component. In an embodiment, the second linkage is pivotably connected to the second vertical component and the headstock.
In an embodiment, the first electric linear actuator connects to the first mast component via a first rose joint, and the second electric linear actuator connects to the second mast component via a second rose joint.
A further aspect of a collapsible mast, provides a plurality of interconnected mast .0 components, where adjacent mast components are pivotably connected to one another, at least two electric linear actuators including a first electric linear actuator and a second electric linear actuator configured to erect the mast from a collapsed position to an erect position, wherein the mast components include a first mast component and a second mast component, and at least two vertical components including a first vertical component and a .5 second vertical component, wherein the first vertical component is connected to the first mast component towards an end of the first vertical component and a first end of the first mast component, and the second vertical component is connected to the first mast component towards a first end of the second vertical component and a second end of the first mast component, and the second mast component is connected to the second vertical component towards a second end of the second vertical component, wherein the first electric linear actuator is connected to the first vertical component and to the first mast component, and the second electric linear actuator is connected to the second vertical component and to the second mast component, wherein the first and second vertical components remain in a vertical orientation when the mast is moved from the collapsed position to the erect position, wherein the first vertical component and the first mast component extend or collapse relative to one another in a first plane, and the second vertical component and the second mast component extend or collapse relative to one another in a second plane, wherein the first plane is offset and parallel to the second plane so as to prevent the first mast component and the second mast component from colliding during collapsing.
In an embodiment, the second mast component when in the collapsed position, overlaps the first mast component due to the first mast component and the second mast component being in the first plane and the second plane respectively.
In an embodiment, a first linkage is pivotably connected to the first vertical component and the second vertical component.
In an embodiment, a second linkage is pivotably connected to the second vertical component and a mounting bracket or a headstock.
In an embodiment, the first electric linear actuator connects to the first mast component via a first rose joint, and the second electric linear actuator connects to the second mast component via a second rose joint.
An advantage of maintaining the vertical members in a vertical orientation when the mast is moved from the collapsed position to the erect position is that the mast may have a smaller .0 footprint compared to prior art masts.
It is to be understood that the term "vertical" is referenced to the normal orientation of the mast when in use performing its designed function and does not limit the position of the mast to any specific angle relative a vertical angle. .5 In an embodiment, the actuator is an electrical actuator. Electronic linear actuators may be advantageous over hydraulic actuators for a number of reasons. For example, in an embodiment, electronic linear actuators may remove the requirement for having a hydraulic power unit, can operate over a wider temperature range, may not move if they fail (unlike hydraulic actuators), and may have in-built safety protection for overload and overheat situations.
In an embodiment, one end of the actuator is pivotably connected to one of the vertical components and the other end of the actuator is pivotably connected to an adjacent component. A rose joint may be used to connect the actuator to a respective component.
In an embodiment, one end of the first electric linear actuator is pivotably connected to the first vertical component and the other end of the first electric linear actuator is pivotably connected to the first mast component adjacent to the first vertical component, and wherein the second electric linear actuator is pivotably connected to the second vertical component and the other end of the second electric linear actuator is pivotably connected to the second mast component adjacent to the second vertical component.
In an embodiment, the actuator moves the two vertical components and an adjacent component that links the two vertical components when the mast is moved from the collapsed position to the erect position.
In an embodiment, the first electric linear actuator moves the first mast component that links the first vertical component and the second vertical component when the mast is moved from the collapsed position to the erect position.
The mast may comprise a linkage that links the two vertical components together. The mast may further comprise a linkage assembly extending from an end of one of the vertical components. A first end of the linkage may be pivotably connected to the linkage assembly. A connection point of the linkage to the linkage assembly may be spaced from the pivot point formed between the vertical component and the adjacent component in a direction that is .0 transverse to a longitudinal direction of the vertical component. A second end of the linkage may be pivotably connected to a support plate. The support plate may be pivotably connected to the adjacent component. The other of the vertical members may be fixed to the support plate.
.5 In an embodiment, the mast may further comprise a headstock located at an end of a terminal mast component. The headstock may be configured to remain in a vertical orientation when the mast is moved from the collapsed position to the erect position. Keeping the headstock in a vertical orientation during movement of the mast between the collapsed and erect position may help to ensure that an orientation of any equipment '0 mounted to the headstock is retained. This may help to minimise or eliminate the need to erect the mast a number of time to optimise the orientation of the equipment mounted to the headstock.
The headstock may be pivotably attached to the end of the terminal mast component. The headstock may be connected to one of the vertical components with a second linkage. A first end of the second linkage may be pivotably connected to the headstock and a second end of the second linkage may be pivotably connected to a second linkage assembly located at an end of one of the vertical components. The headstock may be located near a base of the mast when the mast is in the collapsed position.
In an embodiment, the mast may further comprise a headstock configured to remain in a vertical orientation when the mast is moved from the collapsed position to the erect position, wherein the headstock is located near a base of the mast when the mast is in the collapsed position.
Having the headstock proximate the base when the mast is in the collapse position may mean that no elevation platform or lifting equipment is needed to work on equipment that is mounted to the headstock. The headstock may comprise an attachment plate to which equipment raised by the mast is connectable to.
The mast may further comprise a cradle for supporting one of the plurality of mast components when the mast is in the collapsed position. The cradle may be positioned proximate a base of the mast. In an embodiment, the mast comprises two vertical components, an adjacent component linking the two vertical components, and a terminal component connected to one of the vertical components.
.0 In an embodiment, the mast may comprise the first vertical component and the first mast component pivot relative to one another in a first pivot plane, and the second vertical component and the second mast component pivot relative to one another in a second pivot plane, wherein the first pivot plane is offset and parallel to the second pivot plane.
.5 In an embodiment, the mast may be a communication mast. In an embodiment, the mast may be a lighting mast. The mast may be mounted to a structure, such as a trailer.
An embodiment of the disclosure provides a collapsible mast comprising: a base; a plurality of interconnected mast members extending from the base, the plurality of members including a number of vertical members and a number of connector members, wherein the vertical members are pivotably connected to the connector members; an actuator connected to at least one of the mast members, the actuator being actionable to move the mast between a collapsed position and an erect position; wherein the vertical members remain in a vertical orientation when the mast moves between the collapsed and erect positions.
Also disclosed in another aspect is a collapsible mast system, comprising: a support structure; the mast as set forth above mounted to the support structure; and a power unit used to power the actuator.
In an embodiment, the power unit is an electrical system that includes a solar panel. The support structure may be a trailer that includes stabilisers that are configured to stabilise the trailer and the mast when the mast is in the erect position. The power unit may be mounted on the structure. The system may further comprise a structure housing equipment that is mountable to the headstock. The equipment may be radio communication equipment that includes an antenna. In such an embodiment, the mast is a communication mast.
Also disclosed in an aspect is a method of deploying a mast, comprising: deploying the system as set forth above to a location of interest; and moving the mast from the collapsed position to the erect position. The location of interest may be, for example, a location on a mine site which requires access to a communication antenna or illumination.
Brief description of figures Embodiments will now be described by way of example only with reference to the accompanying non-limiting Figures, in which:
Figure 1 shows a front view of an embodiment of a collapsible mast;
.0 Figure 2 shows an isometric view of the embodiment of Figure 1;
Figure 3 shows a top view of the embodiment of Figure 1;
Figure 4 shows a side view of the embodiment of Figure 1;
Figure 5 shows a cross-section along line A-A in Figure 3;
Figure 6 shows an embodiment of the movement of a collapsible mast between (a) a .5 collapsed position, (b) an intermediate position and (c) an erect position.
Figure 7 shows another embodiment of the movement of a collapsible mast between (a) a collapsed position, (b) an intermediate position and (c) an erect position.
Figure 8 shows an embodiment of a collapsible mast fitted to a trailer.
'O Detailed description of embodiments
An embodiment of a collapsible mast 10 is shown in Figures 1 to 4 in a collapsed position. The mast 10 has a plurality of interconnected mast components. With reference to a use orientation of the mast, the mast components include vertical components in the form of vertical beams. In the embodiment of Figures 1 to 4, the mast 10 has a first vertical beam 12 and a second vertical beam 14. The mast 10 also includes adjacent components in the form of connector beams (also referred to as cross members). In the embodiment of Figures 1 to 4, the mast 10 has a first connector beam 15 and a second connector beam 13. The first vertical beam 12 is pivotably connected to the first connector beam 15 at pivot point 16. The pivot point 16 is positioned towards a second end 12b of the first vertical beam 12 and a first end 15a of the first connector beam 15. The second vertical beam 14 is pivotably connected to the first connector beam 15 at pivot point 18. The pivot point 18 is positioned towards a first end 14a of the second vertical beam 14 and a second end 15b of the first connector beam 15. The second connector beam 13 is pivotably connected to the second vertical beam 14 at pivot point 20. The pivot point 20 is positioned towards a second end 14b of the second vertical beam 14 and a first end 13a of the second connector beam 13. A headstock in the form of mounting bracket 34 is pivotably connected to a second end 13b of the second connector beam 13 at pivot point 35. The mounting bracket 34 has a mounting structure such as a mounting plate 50. In the embodiments of Figures 1 to 4, the mounting plate 50 has a number of apertures that are sized to accommodate fasteners that are used to mount a structure to the mounting plate 50. In some embodiments sidewalls of the apertures are .0 provided with a thread into which a bolt can be screwed. In some embodiments the mounting bracket 34 has another mounting structure and the mounting plate 50 is omitted. For example, the mounting structure can include a flange, clamp, a bayonet mount etc on to which equipment can be mounted. A base 52 is attached to the first end 12a of the first vertical beam 12. The beams are generally formed from square hollow section steel. The .5 mounting plate 50 is oriented vertically in the collapsed position.
Extending from the second end 12b of the first vertical beam 12 is a linkage assembly in the form of connection bracket 26. The connection bracket 26 has a first plate portion 26a and a second plate portion 26b. The plate portions 26a and 26b are positioned on opposite sides '0 of the first vertical beam 12 to form a space 27 therebetween. The first end 15a of the first connection beam 15 is received in the space 27, and a retaining pin passes through plate portions 26a, 26b and the end 15a to form the pivot point 16. This arrangement means that the first vertical beam 12 and the first connector beam 15 pivot relative one another in a first pivot plane.
Extending from the second end 14b of the second vertical beam 14 is a linkage assembly in the form of connection bracket 36. The connection bracket 36 has a first plate portion 36a and a second plate portion 36b. The plate portions 36a and 36b are positioned on opposite sides of the second vertical beam 14 to form a space 37 therebetween. The first end 13a of the second connection beam 13 is received in the space 37, and a retaining pin passes through plate portions 36a, 36b and the end 13a to form the pivot point 20. This arrangement means that the second vertical beam 14 and the second connector beam 13 pivot relative one another in a second pivot plane.
Pivotably attached towards the second end 15b of the first connector beam 15 is a support plate in the form of support structure 28. Support structure 28 has a first side portion 28a and a second side portion 28b that are positioned on opposite sides of the first connector beam
15. A retaining pin passes through the side portions 28a and 28b and the first connector beam 15 to form pivot point 18. Extending from the second side portion 28b is support plate 29 and support plate 31. In the embodiment of Figures 1 to 4 the support plates 29 and 31 extend approximately transversely to the second side portion 28b. The support plates 29 and 31 are generally secured to the second side 28b portion by, for example welding of via fasteners. A recess is formed between the support plates 29 and 31 and the recess is sized to accommodate the first end 14a of the second vertical beam 14. In an embodiment the second end 14a is fixed to the support plates 29 and 31 with fasteners, adhesives and/or welding. Because the second vertical beam 14 is fixed to second side portion 28b, and .0 because second side portion 28b is positioned on a side of the first connector beam 15, the first and second pivot planes are offset and parallel to one another. In some embodiments the support plates 29 and 31 are not required and instead the second vertical beam 14 is secured directly to the side portion 28b for example with fasteners or welding.
.5 A first linkage in the form of rod 22 connects the connection bracket 26 to support structure 28. A first end 22a of the rod 22 is pivotably connected to the connection bracket 26 at pivot point 30, and a second end 22b of the rod 22 is pivotably connected to the support structure 28 at pivot point 32. A second linkage in the form of rod 24 connects the connection bracket 36 to the mounting bracket 34. A first end 24a of the rod 24 is pivotably connected to the '0 connection bracket 36 at pivot point 38, and a second end 24b of the rod 24 is pivotably connected to the mounting bracket 34 at pivot point 35.
In an embodiment the rods 22 and 24 are formed from square section hollow tubing. However, the rods 22 and 24 could be formed of any material and/or configuration that retains its length during movement of the mast 10 between the collapsed and erect position.
A cross-section of pivot point 38 is shown in Figure 5. A hollow sleeve 60 is positioned in the space 37 formed between the first plate portion 36a and second plate portion 36b. A pin 62 passes through the first plate portion 36a, the interior passage of the hollow sleeve 60 and the second plate portion 36b to form pivot point 38. Each of the bushings 68 and 70 is cylindrical and has a radially extending flange. The flange from bushing 68 is positioned between the hollow sleeve 60 and the second plate portion 36b and the flange from bushing 70 is positioned between the hollow sleeve 60 and the first plate portion 36a. The cylindrical section of the bushings 68 and 70 are coaxially arranged between an outer surface of the pin 62 and an inner surface of the hollow sleeve 60. The rod 24 is connected to hollow sleeve 60. A flange 64 extends from the pin 62. The pin 62 is secured in position by fixing the flange 64 to the first plate portion 36a with a fastener in the form of a bolt 66. The bolt 66 passes through an aperture in the flange 64 into a tapped through bore located in the first plate portion 36a. If the pivot point 38 needs to be disassembled, for example during maintenance, the bolt 66 is removed and the pin 62 is withdrawn to free the hollow sleeve 60 from the connection bracket 36.
A first actuator in the form of ram 44 is connected at a first end to plate 57 at connection point 58. Plate 57 is connected to the second vertical beam 14. The other end of the ram 44 is connected to plate 61 at connection point 59. Plate 61 is connected to the second connector beam 13. Actuation of the ram 44 causes the second vertical beam 14 and the .0 second connector beam 13 to pivot relative one another about pivot point 20 in the second pivot plane.
A second actuator in the form of ram 42 is connected at a first end to plate 53 at connection point 54. Plate 53 is connected to the first vertical beam 12. The other end of the ram 42 is .5 connected to plate 55 at connection point 56. Plate 55 is connected to the first connector beam 15. Actuation of the ram 42 causes the first vertical beam 12 and the first connector beam 15 to pivot relative one another about pivot point 16 in the first pivot plane.
In an embodiment, connection points 54, 56, 58 and/or 59 are in the form of a clevis pivot joint. A bracket of the clevis pivot joint can be provided on the actuator 42 and/or 44 or can be defined by the plates 53, 55, 57 and/or 61. In an embodiment, the connection points 56, and 59 are a rose joint (also termed rod end bearing or heim joint). An advantage of a rose joint may be that it can help to ensure the rams are correctly aligned relative the connection points 54, 56, 58 and/or 59.
In the embodiments of Figures 1 to 4, the rams 42 and 44 are electric linear actuators. However, in some embodiments the rams can be hydraulic-based actuators. The respective power unit that causes the rams 42 and 44 to actuate will depend on the type of ram. For example, electric linear actuators will require an electric power unit for operation, and hydraulic actuators will require a hydraulic power unit for operation. The hydraulic power unit may be electrical-based. An advantage of using electrical-based power units and/or actuators is that they can be powered using renewable energy, such as solar panels. For remote locations where the mast 10 may be deployed such as on a mine site, the use of renewable power may help to reduce costs associated with the use of the mast. For example, for conventional diesel hydraulic power units, the costs associated with using and maintaining diesel supplies may be eliminated. Electrical systems tend to have fewer components, which can simplify maintenance and can eliminate the risk of contamination due to leakages of hydraulic fluids.
An advantage of having electronic linear actuators compared to masts that are mechanically raised is that winches, pulleys and cables are not required. Winches, pulleys and cables are subject to wear and tear and can break and cause damage to the mast. Electronic linear actuators require very little maintenance. Additionally, if electronic linear actuators fail to move they will lock as they have in build safety protection for over load situations (e.g. if the mast is loaded too heavy the actuator will not raise) and over temperature (if the linear .0 actuator runs at too high a temperature it will shut off and protect itself and the surrounding for damage). Electronic linear actuators can also generally be operated independent of environmental temperatures, which can be advantageous when used in areas of extreme weather, such as on a mine site. In comparison, failure of hydraulic systems results in uncontrolled collapse of the mast, overload systems are complex, and specific hydraulic .5 fluids are required to work in extreme temperatures (e.g. -40 to +400C).
The pivot point 30 is offset in a transverse direction relative a longitudinal direction of the first vertical beam 12. Similarly, pivot point 38 is offset in a transverse direction relative a longitudinal direction of the second vertical beam 14. To move the mast 10 from the '0 collapsed position (position (a) in Figure 6) to the erect position (position (c) in Figure 6), the rams 42 and 44 are actuated.
Actuation (i.e. extension) of ram 44 causes the second connector beam 13 to pivot about pivot point 20. At the same time, rod 24 pivots around pivot point 38. Similar to rod 22, a length of rod 24 remains fixed and because pivot point 38 is offset relative pivot point 20, extension of the ram 44 causes the rod 26 to push mounting bracket 34 so that the mounting bracket 34 pivots about pivot point 35. The relative positions of the pivot points 30 and 32 means that the orientation of the mounting bracket 34 remains constant during movement of the mast 10 from the collapsed position to the erect position. Because the orientation of the mounting bracket 34 remains constant during mast erection, the orientation of the mounting plate 50 also remains vertical when the mast is moved between the collapsed and erect positions. Such movement can be advantageous as the structure that is mounted to the mounting plate 50 also remains in a fixed orientation. For example, when equipment that requires a specific orientation (such as relative another structure or the surrounding environment), the equipment can be adjusted to achieve the specific orientation when the mast 10 is in the collapsed position, and when the mast 10 is moved to the erect position the equipment will remain in the same orientation. In an embodiment the equipment mounted to the mounting bracket 34 may include an antenna for a communication system. In other embodiments, the equipment may include lights and other lighting equipment. In embodiments where the equipment includes a communication antenna, the mast is a communication mast. In embodiments where the equipment includes lights, the mast is a lighting mast.
Extension of the ram 44 moves the mast 10 into an intermediate position (position (b) in Figure 7). In the intermediate position the second connector beam 13 is positioned vertically above second vertical beam 14 (i.e. in the second pivot plane). The relative positions of the .0 pivot points 38 and 40 means that second connector beam 13 can be extended into a vertical position so that rod 24 is spaced from an outer surface of the second connector beam 13.
Actuation (i.e. extension) of ram 42 causes the first connector beam 15 to pivot about pivot .5 point 16. At the same time, rod 22 pivots around pivot point 30. Because a length of the rod 22 remains fixed and due to the pivot point 30 being offset relative pivot point 16, extension of the ram 42 causes the rod 22 to push against support structure 28 to rotate the support structure 28 about pivot point 18 during extension of the ram 42. The relative positions of the pivot points 30 and 32 means that the orientation of the support structure 28 remains .0 constant during movement of the mast 10 between the collapsed and erect positions. As the second vertical beam 14 is fixed to the support structure 28, the second vertical beam 14 also remains in a vertical orientation during extension of the ram 42.
In an embodiment, ram 44 is actuated first and then ram 42 is actuated to erect mast 10, as shown in Figure 7. (i.e. raising connector beam 13 first) before actuating ram 42 may be advantageous since the mast 10 may be more stable during erection. In an embodiment, ram 42 is actuated first then ram 44 is actuated to erect mast 10, as shown in Figure 6. In a further embodiment rams 42 and 44 may be actuated at the same time (not shown).
An added advantage of the configuration of the mast 10 in the collapsed position is that the mast 10 folds up smaller than prior art masts and has a smaller footprint, which allows for better access to the equipment associated with the mast 10.
In the collapsed position the mounting bracket 34 is located near the base 52. Having the mounting bracket 34 located near the base 52 in the collapsed position can eliminate the need for an operator to use an elevation platform to work on the equipment associated with the mounting bracket, which can increase operator safety. A cradle 48 is positioned on the first vertical member 12. The cradle 48 is sized to accommodate the second connector beam 13 at a position near (e.g. proximate) the mounting bracket 34. The cradle 48 can carry a weight of the mast 10 and/or the structure mounted to the mounting bracket 34 when the mast 10 is in the collapsed position. In some embodiments the cradle 48 is mounted on the base 52 or a support structure. In an embodiment a supplementary cradle 84 is mounted on the trailer 100 to support vertical beam 14 and connector beam 15 near (e.g. under) pivot point 18. The supplementary cradle 84 has a face that is parallel to the connector beam 15 when connector beam 15 is in a collapsed position. The face of the supplementary cradle 84 is fitted with rubber, although this is not required in all embodiments. In some embodiments, .0 the ram 42 retracts connector beam 15 to pull the connector beam 15 into the face of the supplementary cradle 84. Put another way, the ram 42 pushes the connector ram 15 into the face of the supplementary cradle 84 keeping the mast 10 stable in the collapsed position. In an embodiment, ram 44 also pulls the second connector beam 13 into the cradle 48.
.5 In use the mast 10 is mounted to a support structure. In some embodiments the support structure is a trailer 100, as is best seen in Figure 8. The base 52 is fixed to the trailer 100, for example with fasteners such as bolts. The mast 10 is fitted with a conduit 82 that houses electrical cable. The conduit 82 extends from the trailer 100 along the various mast components (e.g. beams) and terminates at the mounting bracket 34. The trailer 100 has 'o stabilising legs 102 that act to stabilise the trailer 100 and mast 10 when the mast 10 is in the erect position. In the embodiment of Figure 8, the rams 42 and 44 are electric linear actuators, and the electrical power source include solar panel system 200. Solar panel system 200 includes a battery in some embodiments. Generally, the solar panel system is mounted to the trailer 100. Mounting the mast 10 and solar panel system 200 onto the trailer 100 provides a single structure (e.g. system) that can be easily deployed to a location of interest where use of the mast 10 is required. For example, the system may be used on a mine site. The location of interest may be a location that requires illumination (when the mast 10 is a lighting mast) or to provide a communication point (when the mast 10 is a communication mast).
In an embodiment a length of the first vertical beam 12 is 2000 mm, a length of second vertical beam 14 is about 1800 mm, a length of first connector beam 15 is about 1400 and a length of the second connector beam 13 is about 1400 mm. In the collapsed position, the mast 10 has an overall height of about 2020 mm and a width of about 1200 mm. In the erect position, the mast 10 has a height of about 7800 mm. In an embodiment, a lifting capacity of the mast 10 is about 35 kg. However, the lifting capacity of the mast 10 is dependent on the surface area of the equipment mounted to the mounting bracket 34 and prevailing wind conditions. For example, in an embodiment the mast can support up to 35 kg of equipment where the equipment has a sail area of 0.8 m 2 with winds of up to 100 km/h (53 knots). A cross-section of each beam of the mast 10 may reduce in a direction extending from the base 52 to the mounting bracket 35.
The embodiments described with reference to the Figures has the beams etc formed from metal. However, the disclosure is not limited to such materials and the beams etc. can be formed from other materials, such as plastics and composite materials. A combination of materials may be used. Further, the disclosed mast has been described with reference to .0 use as a communication mast or a lighting mast, but the disclosure is not limited to such uses.
In the claims which follow and in the preceding description, except where the context requires otherwise due to express language or necessary implication, the word "comprise" or variations such as "comprises" or "comprising" is used in an inclusive sense, i.e. to specify .5 the presence of the stated features but not to preclude the presence or addition of further features in various embodiments of the collapsible mast.
Claims (10)
1. A collapsible mast, comprising: a plurality of interconnected mast components, where adjacent mast components are pivotably connected to one another; at least two electric linear actuators including a first electric linear actuator and a second electric linear actuator configured to erect the mast from a collapsed position to an erect position, wherein the mast components include a first mast component and a second mast component, and at least two vertical components including a first vertical .0 component and a second vertical component, wherein the first vertical component is connected to the first mast component towards an end of the first vertical component and a first end of the first mast component, and the second vertical component is connected to the first mast component towards a first end of the second vertical component and a second end of the first mast component, and the second mast .5 component is connected to the second vertical component towards a second end of the second vertical component, wherein the first electric linear actuator is connected to the first vertical component and to the first mast component, and the second electric linear actuator is connected to the second vertical component and to the second mast component, wherein the first and second vertical components remain in .0 a vertical orientation when the mast is moved from the collapsed position to the erect position, wherein the first vertical component and the first mast component extend or collapse relative to one another in a first plane, and the second vertical component and the second mast component extend or collapse relative to one another in a second plane, wherein the first plane is offset and parallel to the second plane so as to prevent the first mast component and the second mast component from colliding during collapsing.
2. A collapsible mast as claimed in claim 1, wherein the second mast component when in the collapsed position, overlaps the first mast component due to the first mast component and the second mast component being in the first plane and the second plane respectively.
3. A mast as claimed in claim 1 or 2, wherein a first linkage is pivotably connected to the first vertical component and the second vertical component.
4. A mast as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein a second linkage is pivotably connected to the second vertical component and a mounting bracket or a headstock.
5. A mast as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first electric linear actuator connects to the first mast component via a first rose joint, and the second electric linear actuator connects to the second mast component via a second rose joint.
.0 6. A collapsible mast, comprising: a plurality of interconnected mast components, where adjacent mast components are pivotably connected to one another; at least two electric linear actuators including a first electric linear actuator and a second electric linear actuator configured to erect the mast from a collapsed .5 position to an erect position, wherein the mast components include a first mast component and a second mast component, and at least two vertical components including a first vertical component and a second vertical component, wherein the first vertical component is connected to the first mast component towards an end of the first vertical component .0 and a first end of the first mast component, and the second vertical component is connected to the first mast component towards a first end of the second vertical component and a second end of the first mast component, and the second mast component is connected to the second vertical component towards a second end of the second vertical component, wherein the first electric linear actuator is connected to the first vertical component and to the first mast component, and the second electric linear actuator is connected to the second vertical component and to the second mast component, wherein the first and second vertical components remain in a vertical orientation when the mast is moved from the collapsed position to the erect position, wherein the mast further comprises a headstock configured to remain in a vertical orientation when the mast is moved from the collapsed position to the erect position, wherein the headstock is pivotably attached to the end of the terminal mast component.
7. A mast as claimed in claim 6, wherein the mast further comprises a first linkage between the first vertical component and the second vertical component, so as to maintain the first vertical component and the second vertical component in a vertical orientation during erection of the mast, and a second linkage between the second vertical component and the headstock to maintain the headstock in a vertical orientation when the mast is erected.
8. A mast as claimed in claim 7, wherein the first linkage is pivotably connected to the first vertical component and the second vertical component.
9. A mast as claimed in claim 7, wherein the second linkage is pivotably connected to the second vertical component and the headstock.
.0
10. A mast as claimed in any of claims 6 to 8, or claims 6 to 7, and 9, wherein the first electric linear actuator connects to the first mast component via a first rose joint, and the second electric linear actuator connects to the second mast component via a second rose joint.
.5
'0
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
Figure 4
Figure 5
(a) (b)
Figure 6 (c)
Figure 7
Figure 8
Priority Applications (2)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| AU2021102868A AU2021102868A4 (en) | 2019-03-05 | 2021-05-26 | Collapsible Mast |
| AU2022100174A AU2022100174A4 (en) | 2019-03-05 | 2022-11-15 | Collapsible Mast |
Applications Claiming Priority (4)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| AU2019900718A AU2019900718A0 (en) | 2019-03-05 | Collapsible Mast | |
| AU2019900718 | 2019-03-05 | ||
| AU2020100311A AU2020100311C4 (en) | 2019-03-05 | 2020-03-03 | Collapsible Mast |
| AU2021102868A AU2021102868A4 (en) | 2019-03-05 | 2021-05-26 | Collapsible Mast |
Related Parent Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| AU2020100311A Division AU2020100311C4 (en) | 2019-03-05 | 2020-03-03 | Collapsible Mast |
Related Child Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| AU2022100174A Division AU2022100174A4 (en) | 2019-03-05 | 2022-11-15 | Collapsible Mast |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| AU2021102868A4 true AU2021102868A4 (en) | 2021-07-15 |
Family
ID=70374762
Family Applications (3)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| AU2020100311A Revoked AU2020100311C4 (en) | 2019-03-05 | 2020-03-03 | Collapsible Mast |
| AU2021102868A Ceased AU2021102868A4 (en) | 2019-03-05 | 2021-05-26 | Collapsible Mast |
| AU2022100174A Revoked AU2022100174A4 (en) | 2019-03-05 | 2022-11-15 | Collapsible Mast |
Family Applications Before (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| AU2020100311A Revoked AU2020100311C4 (en) | 2019-03-05 | 2020-03-03 | Collapsible Mast |
Family Applications After (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| AU2022100174A Revoked AU2022100174A4 (en) | 2019-03-05 | 2022-11-15 | Collapsible Mast |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| AU (3) | AU2020100311C4 (en) |
Cited By (1)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AU2021106786B4 (en) * | 2021-08-24 | 2022-02-17 | Autonomo Pty Ltd | Collapsible mast |
Family Cites Families (1)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GB2481418A (en) * | 2010-06-22 | 2011-12-28 | Tradewind Turbines Ltd | Folding mast |
-
2020
- 2020-03-03 AU AU2020100311A patent/AU2020100311C4/en not_active Revoked
-
2021
- 2021-05-26 AU AU2021102868A patent/AU2021102868A4/en not_active Ceased
-
2022
- 2022-11-15 AU AU2022100174A patent/AU2022100174A4/en not_active Revoked
Cited By (1)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AU2021106786B4 (en) * | 2021-08-24 | 2022-02-17 | Autonomo Pty Ltd | Collapsible mast |
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| AU2020100311C4 (en) | 2023-02-16 |
| AU2022100174A4 (en) | 2022-12-22 |
| AU2020100311B4 (en) | 2021-05-13 |
| AU2020100311A4 (en) | 2020-04-23 |
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| FGI | Letters patent sealed or granted (innovation patent) | ||
| MK21 | Patent ceased section 101c(b)/section 143a(c)/reg. 9a.4 - examination under section 101b had not been carried out within the period prescribed |