WO2024155519A1

WO2024155519A1 - Illuminatable antenna assemblies including light panels integrated with antennas

Info

Publication number: WO2024155519A1
Application number: PCT/US2024/011333
Authority: WO
Inventors: III John Edwin Ross; Michael Sizemore
Original assignee: Antennas Direct Inc
Current assignee: Antennas Direct Inc
Priority date: 2023-01-18
Filing date: 2024-01-12
Publication date: 2024-07-25
Anticipated expiration: 2025-07-18

Abstract

Exemplary embodiments are disclosed of illuminatable antenna assemblies including light panels (e.g., LED light panels, hexagonal LED light panels, electroluminescent (EL) light panels, etc.) integrated with antennas (e.g., digital television (DTV) antennas, planar antenna elements configured for reception of high definition television (HDTV) signals, etc.). In exemplary embodiments, an illuminatable antenna assembly includes one or more antenna elements integrated with decorative lighting.

Description

ILLUMINATABLE ANTENNA ASSEMBLIES

INCLUDING LIGHT PANELS INTEGRATED WITH ANTENNAS

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application is a PCT International Application claiming priority to and the benefit of United States Provisional Patent Application No. 63/439,713 filed January 18, 2023, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure generally relates to illuminatable antenna assemblies including light panels (e.g., LED light panels, hexagonal LED light panels, electroluminescent (EL) light panels, etc.) integrated with antennas (e.g., digital television (DTV) antennas, planar antenna elements configured for reception of high definition television (HDTV) signals, etc.).

BACKGROUND

[0003] The statements in this section merely provide background information related to the present disclosure and may not constitute prior art.

[0004] Many people enjoy watching television. The tel evi si on- watching experience has been greatly improved due to high definition television (HDTV). A great number of people pay for HDTV through their existing cable or satellite TV service provider. But HDTV signals are commonly broadcast over the free public airwaves. This means that HDTV signals may be received for free with the appropriate antenna.

[0005] In addition, many people enjoy creating illuminating displays using light panels. For example, hexagonal light panels may be arranged and rearranged by a user into different customizable patterns along a wall.

DRAWINGS

[0006] The drawings described herein are for illustrative purposes only of selected embodiments and not all possible implementations and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure. [0007] FIG. 1 illustrates an illuminatable antenna assembly including a hexagonal LED light panel integrated with a tapered loop antenna element according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0008] FIG. 2 illustrates an illuminatable antenna assembly including a hexagonal LED light panel integrated with an UHF fan dipole element according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0009] FIG. 3 illustrates an illuminatable antenna assembly including an electroluminescent (EL) light panel integrated with an antenna element according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0010] FIG. 4 illustrates an example process for providing an EL sheet with slot elements and customizable color fdter layer according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0011] FIG. 5 illustrates an illuminatable antenna assembly including slot elements via interconnected EL hex lighting according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0012] FIG. 6 illustrates an illuminatable antenna assembly including plate dipole elements via interconnected EL hex lighting according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0013] FIG. 7 illustrates a self-configuring illuminatable antenna assembly including multiple EL panels interconnected with electronically controlled RF switches according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0014] FIG. 8 illustrates an illuminatable antenna assembly including hexagonal light panels configured into a daisy configuration with two shorts per side and defining a UHF slot loop according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0015] FIG. 9 illustrates an illuminatable antenna assembly including hexagonal light panels configured into a daisy configuration with one short per side and defining a UHF slot loop according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0016] FIG. 10 illustrates an illuminatable antenna assembly including hexagonal light panels configured into a daisy configuration with one short per side inside corner and defining a UHF slot loop according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. [0017] FIG. 11 illustrates an illuminatable antenna assembly including hexagonal light panels configured into a daisy configuration with two side panels and with two shorts per side and defining a UHF slot dipole according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0018] FIG. 12 illustrates an illuminatable antenna assembly including hexagonal light panels configured into a daisy configuration with two comer panels and with two shorts per side and defining a UHF slot dipole according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0019] FIG. 13 illustrates an illuminatable antenna assembly including two hexagonal light panels with centered side feed and defining a UHF plate dipole according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0020] FIG. 14 illustrates an illuminatable antenna assembly including two hexagonal light panels with centered side feed and two unconnected outermost side panels, and defining a UHF plate dipole according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0021] FIG. 15 illustrates an illuminatable antenna assembly including two hexagonal light panels, two connected outermost side panels, and centered side feed, and defining a VHF plate dipole according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0022] FIG. 16 illustrates an illuminatable antenna assembly including two hexagonal light panels, two connected comer panels, and centered side feed, and defining a VHF plate dipole according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0023] FIG. 17 illustrates an illuminatable antenna assembly including hexagonal light panels, two connected comer panels, centered side feed, embedded in additional panels with no connection, and defining a VHF plate dipole according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0024] FIG. 18 illustrates an example stackup for an antenna and LED lighting integration/combination of an illuminatable antenna assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0025] FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view of an LED hex panel according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0026] FIG. 20 illustrates an illuminatable antenna assembly including two solid LED hexagonal panels defining a UHF dipole according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. [0027] FIG. 21 illustrates an illuminatable antenna assembly including two hollow LED hexagonal panels defining a UHF dipole according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0028] FIG. 22 illustrates an illuminatable antenna assembly including solid LED hexagonal panels defining a VHF dipole according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0029] FIG. 23 illustrates an illuminatable antenna assembly including hollow LED hexagonal panels defining a VHF dipole according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0030] FIG. 24 illustrates an illuminatable antenna assembly including solid LED hexagonal panels defining a VHF dipole according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0031] FIG. 25 illustrates an illuminatable antenna assembly including hollow LED hexagonal panels defining a VHF dipole according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0032] FIG. 26 illustrates an illuminatable antenna assembly including solid LED hexagonal panels defining a VHF dipole according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0033] FIG. 27 illustrates an illuminatable antenna assembly including hollow LED hexagonal panels defining a VHF dipole according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0034] Corresponding reference numerals may indicate corresponding (though not necessarily identical) features throughout the several views of the drawings.

DESCRIPTION

[0035] The following description is merely exemplary in nature and is in no way intended to limit the present disclosure, application, or uses.

[0036] As recognized herein, it is a challenging endeavor to integrate antennas with the PCBs used for light-emitting diode (LED) light panels without introducing issues with either lighting or antenna coupling, as the LED light panel PCBs will detrimentally affect the operation of the antenna. And attempts to keep the PCB small for cost and antenna coupling reasons may result in issues with non-uniform lighting and the antenna element may be too large. Plus, the housings with LEDs are relatively thick so that the light is spread more evenly. Regarding these challenges, Appendix A fded with United States Provisional Patent Application No. 63/439,713 includes details of arduous inventive processes undertaken by the inventors (who are experts in the industry having exceptional skill in the art) during the development of exemplary embodiments of illuminatable antenna assemblies including light panels integrated with antennas. United States Provisional Patent Application No. 63/439,713 and its Appendix A are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0037] Exemplary embodiments were developed and/or are disclosed herein of illuminatable antenna assemblies including light panels (e.g., LED light panels, hexagonal LED light panels, electroluminescent (EL) light panels, etc.) integrated with antennas (e.g., digital television (DTV) antennas, planar antenna elements configured for reception of high definition television (HDTV) signals, etc.). As disclosed herein, exemplary embodiments may include multiple antenna elements covering various frequency bands (e.g, VHF and UHF antenna elements, etc.), radio frequency (RF) amplifiers, and multiplexers that are configured to be operable (e.g, integrated with, etc.) with lighting power and control circuitry coupled with light panels, such as hexagonal LED light panels that are rearrangeable into different customizable illuminatable display patterns along a support surface (e.g., living room wall above or near a television, etc.).

[0038] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of an illuminatable antenna assembly 100 including a hexagonal LED light panel integrated with an antenna element. In this exemplary embodiment, the antenna element comprises a tapered loop antenna element configured for reception of high definition television (HDTV) signals as disclosed in U.S. Patent No.

10.615.501, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. For example, the illuminatable antenna assembly may include a tapered loop antenna element identical to or substantially similar to the tapered loop antenna element 104 disclosed in U.S. Patent No.

10.615.501. By way of example only, the illuminatable antenna assembly 100 may be configured to include a hexagonal housing that is dimensionally sized 220 mm x 220 mm x 20 mm. A honeycomb diffuser and/or translucent cover may be used to improve uniformity of the lighting. A single coaxial connection may be used to carry DC in and RF out. Low density traces on PCB may be used to help mitigate interactions between the tapered loop antenna element and the PCB. Complicated interactions between the tapered loop antenna element and adjacent LED only panels may be minimized by eliminating direct connections therebetween. Also shown in FIG. 1 are a balun and the LED PCB with infrared and touch sensor.

[0039] FIG. 2 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of an illuminatable antenna assembly 200 including a hexagonal LED light panel integrated with an antenna element. In this exemplary embodiment, the antenna element comprises a UHF fan dipole element. By way of example only, the illuminatable antenna assembly 200 may be configured to include a hexagonal housing that is dimensionally sized 220 mm x 220 mm x 20 mm. A honeycomb diffuser and/or translucent cover may be used to improve uniformity of the lighting. A single coaxial connection may be used to carry DC in and RF out. Preferably, there is no direct connection to other panels to minimize interactions. Also shown in FIG. 2 are a balun and the LED PCB with infrared and touch sensor.

[0040] As recognized by the inventors, integrating antennas with PCBs introduces a lot of issues with either lighting or antenna coupling. At least part of the problem is that the LEDs require a complicated PCB that will affect the antenna. If the PCB is kept small for cost and coupling reasons then the lighting will not be very uniform and the antenna element is large so this will be an issue. And the housings with LEDs are relatively thick so that the light gets spread about evenly.

[0041] FIG. 3 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of an illuminatable antenna assembly 300 including an electroluminescent (EL) light panel integrated with an antenna element. In this exemplary embodiment, the illuminatable antenna assembly may include a cavity backed loop slot antenna with a T-bar feed as disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 9,024,839, which is which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0042] The EL light panel may comprise a plurality of EL panel layers through which light is emitted in a direction from bottom to top. From bottom to top, the EL panel layers may include a bottom outer protective laminate, a conductive metal layer, a dielectric insulating layer, a glowing phosphor layer, an indium tin oxide (ITO) clear electrode layer, optional filter layer, and top outer protective laminate. The conductive metal layer and the ITO clear electrode layer may be connected to a power source and inverter. [0043] Generally, the EL light panel may comprise a capacitor with one transparent electrode and a layer of phosphorescent material. Advantageously, the EL light panel can be very thin, flexible, efficient, produce very uniform light distribution via a relatively non-complicated drive circuit, can serve as a conducting back plane for antenna elements, shapes can easily be customized, and intensity can be varied. The EL light panel may require high voltage AC drive provide by using inverters. The EL light panel may be limited to displaying a single color such as green though other colors (e.g., white, etc.) are possible using filters and different phosphors.

[0044] In exemplary embodiments of an illuminatable antenna assembly, the antenna elements may be configured to serve dual purpose as the touch sensor to eliminate or avoid the issue of interactions between antenna and touch sensor. Optical/infrared and/or strain gauge sensor may be used in place of a capacitive touch type sensor to eliminate the issue of interactions between antenna and touch sensor.

[0045] In exemplary embodiments, an illuminatable antenna assembly may be configured to allow RF to pass from EL elements to coax but not to inverter circuits. The illuminatable antenna assembly may also be configured to allows inverter signal to pass to EL elements but not to coax. The illuminatable antenna assembly may be configured to permit EL lights to be on while functioning as an antenna. And the EL strips may configured to form a dipole.

[0046] In exemplary embodiments, an illuminatable antenna assembly may include circuits, printed circuit boards (PCBs), and/or antenna elements (e.g., EL strip to form a dipole, etc.) as disclosed on pages 55 through 81 of Appendix A to United States Provisional Patent Application No. 63/439,713, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. For example, an illuminatable antenna assembly may include an EL lighting board and be configured to block AC power from the coax output, to pass RF (>100 MHz) to the coax, and EL element functions as an antenna.

[0047] In exemplary embodiments, an illuminatable antenna assembly includes an integrated EL inverter, power via coax, and EL light on / off switch via touch sensor. The illuminatable antenna assembly may be configured with a dipole and 75:75 balun, one or more tapered loop antenna elements and 75:300 balun, or without any balun, e.g., for reduced costs, etc. The illuminatable antenna assembly may be configured to include one or more of remote control function, dimming function, signal level indicator, diplexer integration, and/or extension to Wi-Fi bands. [0048] In exemplary embodiments, an illuminatable antenna assembly including an electroluminescent (EL) light panel integrated with an antenna element may be configured as disclosed in one or more of pages 82 through 121 of Appendix A to United States Provisional Patent Application No. 63/439,713, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. In such exemplary embodiments, the illuminatable antenna assembly includes EL based antenna elements that enables antenna products, which may include integration with hex panel decorative lighting products. Control over placement of the EL antenna and adjacent lighting panels may be provided in order to control coupling and provide power, RF, etc. The illuminatable antenna assembly may include an elegant solution interconnect.

[0049] FIG. 4 illustrates an exemplary process for providing an EL sheet 400 with slot elements and customizable color filter layer. The process starts with a large rectangular EL base sheet with no color filter layer. The process then proceeds to cut out a slot element (e.g. loop, dipole, etc.) somewhere on the sheet and feed slot element via PCB that provides EL drive and coaxial input/output. Customizable color filter layer is added over the top of the EL base sheet for decorative lighting effects - only constraint is filter layer cannot pass light in region of the slot element. Advantageously, this may allow for good integration without complicated interconnect issues.

[0050] FIG. 5 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of an illuminatable antenna assembly 500 including slot elements via interconnected EL hex lighting. This starts with a number of hexagonal EL panels arranged with a nominal spacing (e.g., 25 mm, etc.) on all sides. RF connections are configured between various panels to form desired slot element (e.g., loop, dipole, etc.). The slot element is feed via PCB that provides EL drive and coaxial input/output. Color filters may be added to customize the appearance to obtain a desired look from each panel. Advantageously, this may allow for full integration of antenna and lighting.

[0051] FIG. 6 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of an illuminatable antenna assembly 600 including plate dipole elements via interconnected EL hex lighting. This starts with a number of hexagonal EL panels arranged with a nominal spacing (e.g., 25 mm, etc.) on all sides. Two or more panels are fed via PCB that provides EL drive and coaxial input/output. Interconnects are configured to pass LS inverter but block RF connections between remaining panels. Color filters may be added to customize the appearance to obtain a desired look from each panel. Advantageously, this may allow for full integration of antenna and lighting. [0052] FIG. 7 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of an illuminatable antenna assembly 700 that is self-configuring. In this exemplary embodiment, multiple EL panels are interconnected with electronically controlled RF switches. The illuminatable antenna assembly may be configured to use feedback / control loop with receiver to reconfigure on the fly.

[0053] In exemplary embodiments, the illuminatable antenna assembly includes EL antenna elements and LED lighting panels. Advantageously, the combination of EL antenna elements and LED lighting panels may be used to provide various LED colors.

[0054] In exemplary embodiments, the illuminatable antenna assembly may be configured to have multiple configurations of panels for providing antennas, e.g., UHF Loop Slot, UHF Dipole, High VHF Dipole, etc. The illuminatable antenna assembly may include PEC hex panels (e.g., 100 mm sides, 20 mm separation, etc.) and 75 or 300 Ohm inputs.

[0055] FIG. 8 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of an illuminatable antenna assembly 800 including hexagonal light panels configured into a UHF slot loop. In this exemplary embodiment, multiple hexagonal light panels (e.g., seven panels are more, etc.) are configured into a daisy configuration with two shorts per side.

[0056] FIG. 9 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of an illuminatable antenna assembly 900 including hexagonal light panels configured into a UHF slot loop. In this exemplary embodiment, multiple hexagonal light panels (e.g., seven panels are more, etc.) are configured into a daisy configuration with one short per side.

[0057] FIG. 10 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of an illuminatable antenna assembly 1000 including hexagonal light panels configured into a UHF slot loop. In this exemplary embodiment, multiple hexagonal light panels (e.g., seven panels are more, etc.) are configured into a daisy configuration with one short per side inside comer.

[0058] FIG. 11 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of an illuminatable antenna assembly 1100 including hexagonal light panels configured into a UHF slot dipole. In this exemplary embodiment, multiple hexagonal light panels are configured into a daisy configuration with two side panels and with two shorts per side.

[0059] FIG. 12 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of an illuminatable antenna assembly 1200 including hexagonal light panels configured into a UHF slot dipole. In this exemplary embodiment, multiple hexagonal light panels are configured into a daisy configuration with two corner panels and with two shorts per side. [0060] FIG. 13 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of an illuminatable antenna assembly 1300 including two hexagonal light panels configured into a UHF plate dipole with centered side feed.

[0061] FIG. 14 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of an illuminatable antenna assembly 1400 including two hexagonal light panels configured into a UHF plate dipole with centered side feed. The illuminatable antenna assembly 1400 also includes two unconnected outermost side panels.

[0062] FIG. 15 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of an illuminatable antenna assembly 1500 including hexagonal light panels configured into a VHF plate dipole with centered side feed. The illuminatable antenna assembly 1500 includes two connected outermost side panels.

[0063] FIG. 16 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of an illuminatable antenna assembly 1600 including hexagonal light panels configured into a VHF plate dipole with centered side feed. The illuminatable antenna assembly 1600 includes two connected corner panels.

[0064] FIG. 17 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of an illuminatable antenna assembly 1700 including hexagonal light panels configured into a VHF plate dipole. The illuminatable antenna assembly 1700 includes two connected corner panels, centered side feed, embedded in additional panels with no connection.

[0065] In exemplary embodiments, an illuminatable antenna assembly including an LED light panel integrated with an antenna element may be configured as disclosed in one or more of pages 121 through 166 of Appendix A of Appendix A to United States Provisional Patent Application No. 63/439,713, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0066] In exemplary embodiments, an illuminatable antenna assembly includes a distributed interconnect system configured to connect and appropriately filter DC and/or RF between light panels (e.g., hexagonal light panels, etc.) as needed. The DC interconnect may be selectively configured to avoid issues with high voltage inverter output. Each light panel may include multiple mini PCBs to facilitate DC connection to a resident master PCB, which includes an inverter and other controls as well as RF connections directly to the light panel (e.g., hexagonal EL panel, etc.). [0067] In exemplary embodiments, wiring may be completely removed by multiplexing DC, inverter and RF on the existing EL panel conductors. The existing transparent conductor layer may not carry the required DC current. But a third conducting layer may be added below the EL opaque conductor layer to carry DC. Insulating layers may be added if required for safety and operation of EL and other circuits. A metal foil layer may be attached (e.g, via glue, etc.) to the bottom of existing EL panels. Additional conductor layers may be implemented for integrating LED lighting with antenna function.

[0068] FIG. 18 illustrates an example stackup 1804 for an antenna and LED lighting integration/combination of an illuminatable antenna assembly according to an exemplary embodiment. In this exemplary embodiment, the antenna element is defined by shielding around the PCB (e.g, 4-layer PCB, PCB having a stackup as disclosed on page 129 of Appendix A, etc.). By way of example, the shielding may be disposed around the PCB completely to thereby isolate the onboard circuits from RF to mitigate their influence on the antenna. Or the shielding may be disposed around less than an entirety of the PCB. In this latter example, an external layer may be disposed along the PCB that acts as part of the antenna and which is attached to a piece of foil or cut sheet metal to fill in the hexagonal (or other desired shape) antenna element. The traces and components on the PCB do not entirely eliminate antenna performance such that filtering and decoupling elements (e.g., inductors and capacitors (L and C), etc.) may be used to maintain RF currents from flowing and disrupting the antenna operation.

[0069] As shown in FIG. 18, the example stackup 1804 for the antenna and LED lighting integration/combination includes a transparent or translucent housing or cover (e.g., polycarbonate, other material(s), etc.), an optical diffuser layer, and LEDs. The stackup 1804 further includes shielding layers such as copper foil or optically transparent conductor as in EL or combination of same. The antenna element is defined by the shielding around the PCB. Also shown in FIG. 18 are the LED PCB, FR4 and a housing substrate (e.g., acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), other material(s), etc.). Advantages associated with the stackup 1804 include low voltage DC or RF, no high voltage inverter is required, colors and intensity are adjustable, and/or LED and low frequency control isolated from outer panel that forms portions of antenna. The housing and diffuser layer may be configured to have a low profile. [0070] FIG. 19 illustrates an LED hex panel according to an exemplary embodiment. As shown, the LED hex panel includes a translucent cover, a diffuser, an air gap for SMD parts, a 4 layer PCB, and housing back panel.

[0071] FIG. 20 illustrates an illuminatable antenna assembly 2000 including two solid LED hexagonal panels defining a UHF dipole according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0072] FIG. 21 illustrates an illuminatable antenna assembly 2100 including two hollow LED hexagonal panels defining a UHF dipole according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0073] FIG. 22 illustrates an illuminatable antenna assembly 2200 including solid LED hexagonal panels defining a VHF dipole according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0074] FIG. 23 illustrates an illuminatable antenna assembly 2300 including hollow LED hexagonal panels defining a VHF dipole according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0075] FIG. 24 illustrates an illuminatable antenna assembly 2400 including solid LED hexagonal panels defining a VHF dipole according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0076] FIG. 25 illustrates an illuminatable antenna assembly 2500 including hollow LED hexagonal panels defining a VHF dipole according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0077] FIG. 26 illustrates an illuminatable antenna assembly 2600 including solid LED hexagonal panels defining a VHF dipole according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0078] FIG. 27 illustrates an illuminatable antenna assembly 2700 including hollow LED hexagonal panels defining a VHF dipole according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0079] In exemplary embodiments, the illuminatable antenna assembly includes a two panel UHF dipole with solid panels (e.g, FIG. 20, etc.) at 75 Ohms. In other exemplary embodiments, the illuminatable antenna assembly includes a four VHF dipole with solid panels (e.g., FIGS. 24 and 26, etc.) at 75 Ohms and configured to provide dual band performance. [0080] In exemplary embodiments, an illuminatable antenna assembly may include two types of interconnects between the light panels. One type of interconnect supports lighting functions (e.g., power, ground, control). The other type of interconnect supports lighting as well as the RF/antenna interconnect. It has been observed that adjacent "lighting only" panels that are not connected via a direct RF/antenna connection do not substantially impact antenna function. This permits arrangement of the panels to form useful arrangements for antenna operation that are embedded within larger decorative lighting arrangements.

[0081] In exemplary embodiments, an illuminatable antenna assembly may include an interconnect with a switch to thereby selectively enable/disable the RF antenna connection. Exemplary embodiments may include an interconnect for lighting only, an interconnect for RF only, an interconnect for lighting and RF, an interconnect for lighting with a switchable RF, combinations thereof, etc.

[0082] In exemplary embodiments, an illuminatable antenna assembly includes hexagon light panels and one or more antenna elements integrated with or integrally defined by the one or more light panels. In alternative embodiments, the light panels may be configured differently to have a different non-hexagonal shape, such as circular, rectangular, triangular, etc.

[0083] The antenna elements disclosed herein may be made from a wide range of materials, which are preferably good conductors such as aluminum (e.g., anodized aluminum, etc.), copper, stainless steel, other metals, other alloys, etc.

[0084] In exemplary embodiments, the illuminatable antenna assemblies are configured for reception of digital television signals, such as HDTV signals. Alternative embodiments, however, may include one or more antenna elements configured for receiving non-television signals and/or signals having frequencies not associated with HDTV (e.g., FM radio (88-108 MHz), low VHF DTV (54-88 MHz), Wi-Fi at 2.4 and 5.8 GHz, etc.). For example, an illuminatable antenna assembly may be scaled down in physical size such that its antenna element(s) are configurable to work at higher frequencies, e.g., Wi-Fi at 2.4 GHz and/or Wi-Fi at 5.8 GHz, etc. Thus, embodiments of the present disclosure should not be limited to receiving only television signals having a frequency or within a frequency range associated with digital television or HDTV. [0085] An advantage of the integration of antennas with decorative lighting is that the size of the antenna is no longer constrained by the end user’s desire to have a physically small and inconspicuous antenna. This, in turn, enables bigger and hence better antennas than was practical in the past.

[0086] In exemplary embodiments, an illuminatable antenna assembly may include one or more LED and/or EL strips (e.g, relatively long thin wire-like deployments of LED and/or EL strips, etc.) that integrally define one or more antenna elements configured to be operable for reception of lower frequency bands such as FM radio (88-108 MHz) or low VHF DTV (54-88 MHz).

[0087] In exemplary embodiments, an illuminatable antenna assembly may include one or more light panels that are hexagonal, circular, rectangular, triangular, combinations thereof, etc. One or more antenna elements may be integrated with or integrally defined by the one or more light panels. The one or more antennas may comprise one or more of a digital television (DTV) antenna element, planar antenna element configured for reception of high definition television (HDTV) signals, antenna element configured for reception of non-television signals and/or signals having frequencies not associated with HDTV, etc. The illuminatable antenna assembly may include one or more LED and/or EL strips that integrally define one or more additional antenna elements configured to be operable for reception of additional and/or lower frequency bands (e.g., FM radio (88-108 MHz), low VHF DTV (54-88 MHz, etc.) to thereby augment and additional bands to the illuminatable antenna assembly.

[0088] In exemplary embodiments, light panels are arranged to form a slot radiator. For example, seven light panels (e.g, hexagonal LED light panels, etc.) may be arranged in a daisy configuration that produces a UHF slot loop. In other exemplary embodiments, light panels are arranged to define other slot radiator elements (e.g., dipole, etc.).

[0089] Example embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough, and will fully convey the scope to those who are skilled in the art. Numerous specific details are set forth such as examples of specific components, devices, and methods, to provide a thorough understanding of embodiments of the present disclosure. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that specific details need not be employed, that example embodiments may be embodied in many different forms, and that neither should be construed to limit the scope of the disclosure. In some example embodiments, well-known processes, well-known device structures, and well- known technologies are not described in detail. In addition, advantages and improvements that may be achieved with one or more exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure are provided for purpose of illustration only and do not limit the scope of the present disclosure, as exemplary embodiments disclosed herein may provide all or none of the above mentioned advantages and improvements and still fall within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0090] Specific dimensions, specific materials, and/or specific shapes disclosed herein are exemplary in nature and do not limit the scope of the present disclosure. The disclosure herein of particular values and particular ranges of values for given parameters are not exclusive of other values and ranges of values that may be useful in one or more of the examples disclosed herein. Moreover, it is envisioned that any two particular values for a specific parameter stated herein may define the endpoints of a range of values that may be suitable for the given parameter (z.e., the disclosure of a first value and a second value for a given parameter can be interpreted as disclosing that any value between the first and second values could also be employed for the given parameter). For example, if Parameter X is exemplified herein to have value A and also exemplified to have value Z, it is envisioned that parameter X may have a range of values from about A to about Z. Similarly, it is envisioned that disclosure of two or more ranges of values for a parameter (whether such ranges are nested, overlapping or distinct) subsume all possible combination of ranges for the value that might be claimed using endpoints of the disclosed ranges. For example, if parameter X is exemplified herein to have values in the range of 1 - 10, or 3 - 9, or 3 - 8, it is also envisioned that Parameter X may have other ranges of values including 1 - 9, 1 - 8, 1 - 3, 1 - 3, 3 - 10, 3 - 8, 3 - 3, 3 - 10, and 3 - 9.

[0091] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular example embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. For example, when permissive phrases, such as “may comprise”, “may include”, and the like, are used herein, at least one antenna assembly comprises or includes the feature(s) in at least one exemplary embodiment. As used herein, the singular forms “a”, “an” and “the” may be intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. The terms “comprises,” “comprising,” “including,” and “having,” are inclusive and therefore specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, antenna elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, antenna elements, components, and/or groups thereof. The method steps, processes, and operations described herein are not to be construed as necessarily requiring their performance in the particular order discussed or illustrated, unless specifically identified as an order of performance. It is also to be understood that additional or alternative steps may be employed.

[0092] When an antenna element or layer is referred to as being “on”, “engaged to”, “connected to” or “coupled to” another antenna element or layer, it may be directly on, engaged, connected or coupled to the other antenna element or layer, or intervening antenna elements or layers may be present. In contrast, when an antenna element is referred to as being “directly on,” “directly engaged to”, “directly connected to” or “directly coupled to” another antenna element or layer, there may be no intervening antenna elements or layers present. Other words used to describe the relationship between antenna elements should be interpreted in a like fashion (e.g., “between” versus “directly between,” “adjacent” versus “directly adjacent,” etc.). As used herein, the term “and/or” includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0093] The term “about” when applied to values indicates that the calculation or the measurement allows some slight imprecision in the value (with some approach to exactness in the value; approximately or reasonably close to the value; nearly). If, for some reason, the imprecision provided by “about” is not otherwise understood in the art with this ordinary meaning, then “about” as used herein indicates at least variations that may arise from ordinary methods of measuring or using such parameters. For example, the terms “generally”, “about”, and “substantially” may be used herein to mean within manufacturing tolerances.

[0094] Although the terms first, second, third, etc. may be used herein to describe various antenna elements, components, regions, layers and/or sections, these antenna elements, components, regions, layers and/or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms may be only used to distinguish one antenna element, component, region, layer or section from another region, layer or section. Terms such as “first,” “second,” and other numerical terms when used herein do not imply a sequence or order unless clearly indicated by the context. Thus, a first antenna element, component, region, layer or section could be termed a second antenna element, component, region, layer or section without departing from the teachings of the example embodiments. [0095] Spatially relative terms, such as “inner,” “outer,” “beneath”, “below”, “lower”, “above”, “upper” and the like, may be used herein for ease of description to describe one antenna element or feature’s relationship to another antenna element(s) or feature(s) as illustrated in the figures. Spatially relative terms may be intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures is turned over, antenna elements described as “below” or “beneath” other antenna elements or features would then be oriented “above” the other antenna elements or features. Thus, the example term “below” can encompass both an orientation of above and below. The device may be otherwise oriented (rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptors used herein interpreted accordingly.

[0096] The foregoing description of the embodiments has been provided for purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the disclosure. Individual antenna elements, intended or stated uses, or features of a particular embodiment are generally not limited to that particular embodiment, but, where applicable, are interchangeable and can be used in a selected embodiment, even if not specifically shown or described. The same may also be varied in many ways. Such variations are not to be regarded as a departure from the disclosure, and all such modifications are intended to be included within the scope of the disclosure.

Claims

CLAIMS WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. An illuminatable antenna assembly comprising one or more light panels and one or more antenna elements integrated with or integrally defined by the one or more light panels.

2. The illuminatable antenna assembly of claim 1, wherein the one or more light panels comprise one or more light-emitting diode (LED) light panels.

3. The illuminatable antenna assembly of claim 2, wherein the one or more LED light panels comprise one or more hexagonal LED light panels.

4. The illuminatable antenna assembly of claim 1, wherein the one or more light panels comprise one or more electroluminescent (EL) light panels.

5. The illuminatable antenna assembly of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the one or more antenna elements comprise one or more antenna elements configured for reception of digital television (DTV) signals.

6. The illuminatable antenna assembly of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the one or more antenna elements comprise one or more antenna elements configured for reception of high definition television (HDTV) signals.

7. The illuminatable antenna assembly of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the one or more antenna elements comprise one or more planar antenna elements configured for reception of digital television (DTV) signals.

8. The illuminatable antenna assembly of claim 1, wherein: the one or more light panels comprise one or more LEDs onboard a printed circuit board; and the illuminatable antenna assembly includes shielding along at least a portion of the printed circuit board that defines the one or more antenna elements.

9. The illuminatable antenna assembly of claim 8, wherein the shielding comprises one or more metal foil layers attached along a lower portion of the printed circuit board, the one or more metal foil layers defining the one or more antenna elements.

10. The illuminatable antenna assembly of claim 8, wherein the printed circuit board comprises a four-layer printed circuit board.

11. The illuminatable antenna assembly of claim 8, further comprising: a translucent cover; a diffuser below the translucent cover; and a housing back panel; wherein the printed circuit board is below the diffuser, and the shielding is between the printed circuit board and the housing back panel.

12. The illuminatable antenna assembly of claim 8, 9, 10, or 11, wherein the one or more light panels comprise one or more hexagonal LED light panels.

13. The illuminatable antenna assembly of claim 12, wherein the illuminatable antenna assembly includes at least four of said one or more hexagonal LED light panels.

14. The illuminatable antenna assembly of claim 1, wherein: the one or more light panels comprises first, second, third, and fourth hexagonal light panels in a generally linear arrangement or a non-linear arrangement; a first short electrically couples the first hexagonal light panel with the second hexagonal light panels; a second short electrically couples the third hexagonal light panel with the fourth hexagonal light panel; an antenna feed is between and/or electrically couples the second and third hexagonal light panels; and the one or more antenna elements are integrated with the first, second, third, and fourth hexagonal light panels to define a VHF dipole antenna.

15. The illuminatable antenna assembly of claim 14, wherein the one or more antenna elements are integrated with the first, second, third, and fourth hexagonal light panels to further define a UHF dipole antenna.

16. The illuminatable antenna assembly of claim 1, wherein: the one or more light panels comprises first and second hexagonal light panels; an antenna feed is between and/or electrically couples the first and second hexagonal light panels; and the one or more antenna elements are integrated with the first and second hexagonal light panels to define a UHF dipole antenna.

17. The illuminatable antenna assembly of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the one or more antenna elements are integrated with the one or more light panels to define a UHF dipole antenna and/or a VHF dipole antenna element.

18. The illuminatable antenna assembly of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the one or more antenna elements comprise: one or more UHF antenna elements configured to be operable for receiving UHF high definition television signals from about 470 megahertz to about 698 megahertz; and/or one or more VHF antenna elements configured to be operable for receiving VHF high definition television signals from about 174 megahertz to about 216 megahertz.

19. The illuminatable antenna assembly of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the one or more light panels are configured to have a hexagonal shape or non-hexagonal shape.

20. The illuminatable antenna assembly of claim 19, wherein the one or more light panels are configured to have a circular, rectangular, or triangular shape.

21. The illuminatable antenna assembly of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the illuminatable antenna assembly includes: a first type of interconnect between at least two adjacent light panels for supporting lighting functions only; and a second type of interconnect between at least two adjacent light panels for supporting lighting functions and RF/antenna interconnect; whereby adjacent lighting only panels with the first type of interconnect that are not connected via a direct RF/antenna connection do not substantially impact antenna function thereby allowing the light panels to be arranged for antenna operation that are embedded within larger decorative lighting arrangements.

22. The illuminatable antenna assembly of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the illuminatable antenna assembly includes an interconnect between at least adjacent light panels and that has a switch to thereby selectively enable/disable RF antenna connection.

23. The illuminatable antenna assembly of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the illuminatable antenna assembly includes one or more of an interconnect for lighting only, an interconnect for RF only, an interconnect for lighting and RF, an interconnect for lighting with a switchable RF, and/or a combination thereof.

24. The illuminatable antenna assembly of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the illuminatable antenna assembly includes one or more antenna elements configured for receiving non-television signals and/or signals having frequencies not associated with HDTV.

25. The illuminatable antenna assembly of claim 24, wherein the illuminatable antenna assembly includes one or more antenna elements configured for receiving non-television signals and/or signals having frequencies not associated with HDTV including one or more FM radio (88-108 MHz), low VHF DTV (54-88 MHz), Wi-Fi at 2.4 GHz, Wi-Fi at 5.8 GHz, and/or a combination thereof.

26. The illuminatable antenna assembly of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the illuminatable antenna assembly further include one or more LED and/or EL strips that integrally define one or more antenna elements configured to be operable for reception of one or more different frequency bands than the one or more antenna elements integrally defined by the one or more light panels.

27. The illuminatable antenna assembly of claim 26, wherein: the one or more antenna elements integrally defined by the one or more LED and/or EL strips are configured to be operable for reception of FM radio (88-108 MHz) and/or low VHF DTV (54-88 MHz); and the one or more antenna elements integrally defined by the one or more light panels are configured to be operable for reception of digital television (DTV) antenna signals.

28. The illuminatable antenna assembly of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein: the one or more antenna elements integrally defined by the one or more light panels comprise a slot radiator; and the one or more light panels comprise a plurality of light panels arranged to form the slot radiator.

29. The illuminatable antenna assembly of claim 28, wherein the plurality of light panels are arranged in a daisy chain such that the slot radiator is a UHF slot loop.

30. The illuminatable antenna assembly of claim 28, wherein the plurality of light panels are arranged such that the slot radiator is a dipole.

31. An illuminatable antenna assembly comprising one or more light-emitting diode (LED) and/or electroluminescent (EL) strips that integrally define one or more antenna elements.

32. The illuminatable antenna assembly of claim 31, further comprising one or more light panels.

33. The illuminatable antenna assembly of claim 32, wherein the one or more light panels integrally define one or more antenna elements configured to be operable for reception of one or more different frequency bands than the one or more antenna elements integrally defined by the one or more LED and/or EL strips.

34. The illuminatable antenna assembly of claim 33, wherein: the one or more antenna elements integrally defined by the one or more LED and/or EL strips are configured to be operable for reception of FM radio (88-108 MHz) and/or low VHF DTV (54-88 MHz); and the one or more antenna elements integrally defined by the one or more light panels are configured to be operable for reception of digital television (DTV) antenna signals.