Telescoping mast assembly

Abstract

An extendible mast assembly is disclosed comprising a base member ( ); a base mast section ( ) pivotally coupled thereto; and an extendible mast section ( ) telescopically received within the base mast section ( ). A first ball drive actuator ( ) is mounted and coupled to pivotally drive the mast sections between a horizontal “down” position and a vertical “up” position, and a second ball drive actuator ( ) is mounted within the base mast section to move the extendible mast section in and out of the base mast section. A wiring harness ( ) is routed from the base of the unit up through the base mast section and the extendible mast section for powering the ball drive actuators ( ) and any electrically powered device mounted to the distal end of the mast. The uppermost extendible mast section ( ) is composed of non-conductive material to prevent the conductance of a charge down the mast to the vehicle to which the unit is attached. The passageways of the base and extendible mast sections are enclosed to protect the motor and wiring harnesses from detrimental contact with the elements or surrounding obstructions. In an alternative embodiment, the mast assembly is an integral in-line component of a light bar assembly and supports at a remote end optional equipment such as a radar/laser device; a speaker system; auxiliary lighting; video cameras; and a digital sign. The mast assembly, light bar, and safety and detection devices located at the remote end of the mast assembly are mounted to the rooftop of a vehicle and comprise a security system computer controlled remotely from within the passenger compartment of the vehicle. Elevated atop the mast assembly, the security and detection equipment attains a height advantage which functionally improves their performance and serves to remove such equipment from the dashboard of the vehicle, enhancing passenger safety and comfort thereby.