Techniques for the design of antenna masts

This paper presents the structural analysis techniques for the design of the antenna masts used in the AUTOPLEX^TMCellular Radio system. We did the analysis to ensure the survivability of these masts under specified high wind conditions and to verify that the antenna system would meet deflection requirements under maximum operational wind conditions. In performing the analysis, analytical tools and techniques were developed applicable to the general case of antenna support structure design. Specifically, a closed form solution is presented, using the double integration method for the problem of non-uniform wind loads on a structure where the diameter and wall thickness also varies. Additionally, a finite element solution to the problem of base plate and anchor bolt design is presented. Finally, a variety of other analytical topics, which include buckling, torsion, vortex shedding, solar heating, icing, and earthquake, are discussed.