LOW DIELECTRIC LARGE ANTENNA TEST FIXTURE


APPLICATION:

Military. Antenna support structure for outdoor testing of large antenna.

PREVIOUS LIMITING TECHNOLOGY:

Steel and/or Aluminum.

CHALLENGE:

The structure could not influence antenna patterns. The entire 28’ long support structure needed to be free of any metallic components including fasteners, able to withstand 25 Kt wind loads, and produced in 8 weeks.

SOLUTION

Produced a completely composite structure utilizing extruded epoxy and fiberglass components and composite fasteners.

Rock West's low dielectric large antenna test fixture is show under construction in a manufacturing bay with an American flag on the wall. Three technicians are working along the length of the fixture, which is on its side and elevated on wood sawhorses.
Image shows a cross piece of the test fixture setup on a granite table. The table is in a manufacturing space with activity in the background, including technicians inspecting part of the long part of the fixture.
The low dielectric antenna test fixture on location in an outdoor setting underneath a tent structure. It is holding up a cage structure that has yet to be loaded.
The low dielectric large antenna test fixture, loaded with additional equipment, is being raised by a crane for placement.
The low dielectric large antenna test fixture is shown installed at its permanent location. It is positioned on top of a white tower with stairs. The tower is located on a hillside overlooking the ocean on a cloudy day.