USA As Represented by Secretary of the Navy

Robert D Prince

Peder M Hansen

James H Schukantz, Jr

In an umbrella top-loaded monopole (UTLM) antenna, the charge distribution n top-load radials increases approximately linearly from the top of the antenna because the activated top-load wires are separating from the tower and each other at the same time they are getting closer to ground. The UTLM antenna of the invention incorporates a top-load configuration in which top-load elements, whether they be radiating or receiving, are arranged in sections of rhombic-shaped frames that originate at the top of the antenna and that extend away from the antenna towards the antenna's base where, at those points of the configuration furthest from the antenna tower and closest to ground at least two top-load elements converge to shield each other and hence reduce charge density. The top-load sections are disposed between the vertical guy wire planes of an antenna to ease their installation, repair and maintenance. The self-shielding effect of the invention permits an antenna to operate at considerably higher voltage. This top-load configuration can also show superior effective height and static capacitance as compared to the traditional UTLM antenna. Because of the efficiency offered by the invention, intrinsic bandwidth and radiated power can be superior to the typical UTLM antenna even with the same top-load voltage limit. Such results can be achieved with half of the traditional number of top-load high voltage insulators.

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Dale City, VA, United States of America

Robert D Prince