Project number
16036
Organization
Caterpillar Inc.
Academic year
2016-2017
Mine sites around the globe use the sponsor’s 793F mining truck, which requires several antennas for everyday operation. The existing antenna configuration consists of multiple antenna mounting locations and an underused mast structure.
The mast structure is difficult to maintain and supports only a single antenna, so the team’s goal is to design and test a telescoping mast system that supports multiple antennas while being easier to safely maintain. The team’s solution is a lightweight, cost-efficient design featuring a highly integrated antenna mast system.
The new antenna mast system is raised and lowered by an electronic motor that allows technicians to perform maintenance safely. Multiple antennas can be mounted on the new mast, which is made of carbon fiber for high strength and low weight.
The mast structure is difficult to maintain and supports only a single antenna, so the team’s goal is to design and test a telescoping mast system that supports multiple antennas while being easier to safely maintain. The team’s solution is a lightweight, cost-efficient design featuring a highly integrated antenna mast system.
The new antenna mast system is raised and lowered by an electronic motor that allows technicians to perform maintenance safely. Multiple antennas can be mounted on the new mast, which is made of carbon fiber for high strength and low weight.