EP3097603B1 - Window assembly with transparent layer and an antenna element - Google Patents
Window assembly with transparent layer and an antenna element Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- EP3097603B1 EP3097603B1 EP14703708.9A EP14703708A EP3097603B1 EP 3097603 B1 EP3097603 B1 EP 3097603B1 EP 14703708 A EP14703708 A EP 14703708A EP 3097603 B1 EP3097603 B1 EP 3097603B1
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- EP
- European Patent Office
- Prior art keywords
- antenna
- transparent layer
- antenna segment
- segment
- window assembly
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
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Images
Classifications
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
- H01Q—ANTENNAS, i.e. RADIO AERIALS
- H01Q1/00—Details of, or arrangements associated with, antennas
- H01Q1/12—Supports; Mounting means
- H01Q1/1271—Supports; Mounting means for mounting on windscreens
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
- H01Q—ANTENNAS, i.e. RADIO AERIALS
- H01Q1/00—Details of, or arrangements associated with, antennas
- H01Q1/12—Supports; Mounting means
- H01Q1/1271—Supports; Mounting means for mounting on windscreens
- H01Q1/1278—Supports; Mounting means for mounting on windscreens in association with heating wires or layers
Definitions
- the subject invention generally relates to a window assembly. More specifically, the subject invention relates to a window assembly having a transparent layer and an antenna element.
- clear films or coatings embedded within the windshield for various purposes.
- Such clear films or coatings often have metal compounds, such as metal oxides, for making the clear films or coatings electrically conductive.
- the clear films or coatings have been applied to windshields to reflect heat from sunlight penetrating the windshield.
- the clear films or coatings reflect infrared radiation from sunlight.
- the clear films or coatings reduce the amount of infrared radiation entering an interior of the vehicle.
- the clear films or coatings are typically applied over a substantial part of the windshield, often spanning the entire field of view of the driver.
- JPS63155805 discloses a glass antenna for a vehicle comprising an antenna filament extended from one side part to the center part of a vehicle glass plate, connected to a transparent antenna via a vertical filament.
- EP0720249 discloses another transparent antenna, which in the Fig. 6 embodiment is connected to two antenna elements, each via an electroconductive connector.
- conventional window assemblies utilizing the clear films or coatings lack robust and efficient antenna performance. Today's vehicles are subjected to ever-increasing electromagnetic interference. Yet, conventional window assemblies utilizing the clear films or coatings insufficiently control antenna radiation patterns and antenna impedance characteristics to combat such electromagnetic interference.
- Conventional window assemblies utilizing the clear films or coatings fail to sufficiently reduce a footprint of antenna elements utilized in conjunction with the clear film or coating.
- many conventional window assemblies require costly modifications to the clear films or coatings, such as deletions, voids, or slits that are formed therein for antenna purposes.
- conventional window assemblies lack the ability to further operate the clear films or coatings for defogging or a defrosting element purposes.
- a window assembly as claimed in Claim 1 is provided.
- the window assembly advantageously provides robust and efficient antenna performance.
- the area of the transparent layer provides transmission and/or reception of radio frequency signals.
- the first and second antenna segments beneficially play a role in transmission and/or reception of radio signals.
- the first and second antenna segments alter antenna radiation pattern and/or antenna impedance characteristics. Having the first antenna segment disposed in the outer region and spaced from and extending along the periphery advantageously maximizes and improves antenna impedance matching and radiation pattern altering.
- the second antenna segment advantageously provides a DC connection between the first antenna segment and the transparent layer. In providing the DC connection, the second antenna segment allows a footprint of the antenna element to be minimized.
- the first and second antenna segments may be applied to the window assembly without any modification to the area of the transparent layer.
- a window assembly is shown generally at 10 in FIG. 1 .
- the window assembly 10 is for a vehicle 12.
- the window assembly 10 may be a front window (windshield) as illustrated in FIG. 1 .
- the window assembly 10 may be a rear window (backlite), a roof window (sunroof), or any other window of the vehicle 12.
- the vehicle 12 defines an aperture and the window assembly 10 closes the aperture.
- the aperture is conventionally defined by a window frame 14 of the vehicle 12 which is typically electrically conductive.
- the window assembly 10 of this invention may be for applications other than for vehicles 12.
- the window assembly 10 may be for architectural applications such as homes, buildings, and the like.
- the window assembly 10 includes an antenna element 16.
- the window assembly 10 may also include a plurality of antenna elements 16.
- the antenna element 16 transmits and/or receives radio frequency signals.
- the window assembly 10 includes a substrate 17.
- the window assembly 10 includes an exterior substrate 18 and an interior substrate 20 disposed adjacent the exterior substrate 18.
- the substrate 17 may be defined as a single substrate.
- the substrate 17 may be the exterior substrate 18 or the interior substrate 20.
- the substrate 17 may include a combination of the exterior and interior substrates 18, 20.
- the substrate 17 is described herein by the exterior and interior substrates 18, 20.
- the substrate 17 may have other configurations not specifically recited herein.
- the exterior substrate 18 is disposed parallel to and spaced from the interior substrate 20 such that the substrates 18, 20 are not contacting one another. Alternatively, the exterior substrate 18 may directly abut the interior substrate 20.
- the exterior and interior substrates 18, 20 are electrically non-conductive.
- non-conductive refers generally to a material, such as an insulator or dielectric, that when placed between conductors at different electric potentials, permits a negligible current to flow through the material.
- the exterior and interior substrates 18, 20 are also substantially transparent to light. However, it is to be appreciated that the exterior and interior substrates 18, 20 may be colored or tinted and still be substantially transparent to light. As used herein, the term “substantially transparent” is defined generally as having a visible light transmittance of greater than sixty percent.
- the exterior and interior substrates 18, 20 are preferably joined together to form the window assembly 10.
- the exterior and interior substrates 18, 20 are panes of glass.
- the panes of glass are preferably automotive glass and, more preferably, soda-lime-silica glass.
- the exterior and interior substrates 18, 20 may be plastic, fiberglass, or other suitable electrically non-conductive and substantially transparent material.
- the exterior and interior substrates 18, 20 are each typically 3.2 mm thick.
- each of the exterior and interior substrates 18, 20 has an inner surface 18a, 20a and an outer surface 18b, 20b.
- the outer surface 18b of the exterior substrate 18 faces an exterior of the vehicle 12 and the outer surface 20b of the interior substrate 20 faces an interior of the vehicle 12.
- the inner surfaces 18a, 20a of the exterior and interior substrates 18, 20 typically face one another when the exterior and interior substrates 18, 20 are joined together to form the window assembly 10.
- the exterior and interior substrates 18, 20 define a peripheral edge 22 of the window assembly 10.
- the peripheral edge 22 of the window assembly 10 is shared by the exterior and interior substrates 18, 20, as shown in FIGS. 3A-3C .
- the exterior and interior substrates 18, 20 have substantially similar areas and shapes with each substrate 18, 20 having an edge forming part of the peripheral edge 22 when the substrates 18, 20 are joined.
- the peripheral edge 22 has a generally trapezoidal configuration.
- the peripheral edge 22 may have any suitable shape, such as a rectangular configuration, and the like.
- a transparent layer 24 is disposed on the substrate 17.
- the transparent layer 24 is disposed between the exterior and interior substrates 18, 20.
- the window assembly 10 may include the transparent layer 24 sandwiched between the exterior and interior substrates 18, 20 such that the transparent layer 24 is abutting the substrates 18, 20.
- the transparent layer 24 may be disposed on one of the inner surfaces 18a, 20a of the exterior and interior substrates 18, 20. Disposal of the transparent layer 24 between the exterior and interior substrates 18, 20 protects the transparent layer 24 from direct contact with environmental factors which may damage the transparent layer 24 such as snow, ice, and the like.
- the transparent layer 24 may be disposed on the outer surface 18b of the exterior substrate 18 or the outer surface 20b of the interior substrate 20.
- the transparent layer 24 is substantially transparent to light. Accordingly, a driver or occupant of the vehicle 12 may see through the window assembly 10 having the transparent layer 24. With the transparent layer 24 disposed within the window assembly 10, the window assembly 10 exhibits generally greater than sixty percent visible light transmission through the window assembly 10. The transparent layer 24 preferably reflects heat from sunlight penetrating the window assembly 10. In particular, the transparent layer 24 reduces transmission of infrared radiation through the window assembly 10.
- the transparent layer 24 may include and/or be formed from one or more coatings and/or films of selected composition.
- the coatings and/or films forming the transparent layer 24 may be single or multiple layers.
- the transparent layer 24 may be disposed in the window assembly 10 according to any suitable method, such as chemical vapor deposition, magnetron sputter vapor deposition, spray pyrolysis, and the like.
- the transparent layer 24 includes a metal compound such that the transparent layer 24 is electrically conductive.
- the term "electrically conductive" refers generally to a material, such as a conductor, exhibiting electrical conductivity for effectively allowing flow of electric current through the material.
- the transparent layer 24 may have any suitable sheet resistance or surface resistance.
- the transparent layer 24 has a sheet resistance in a range between 0.5-20 ⁇ /sq. In another example, the transparent layer 24 has a sheet resistance in a range between 8-12 ⁇ /sq.
- the metal compound includes a metal oxide.
- the metal oxide may include a tin oxide, such as indium tin oxide, or the like.
- the transparent layer 24 may include other metal oxides, including, but not limited to, silver oxide.
- the metal compound may include a metal nitride, and the like.
- the metal compound may also be doped with an additive, such as fluorine. Specifically, the additive may be included in the metal compound to optimize the light transmittance and electrical conductivity of the transparent layer 24.
- the transparent layer 24 defines an area 26 spanning the window assembly 10.
- the area 26 may span a majority of the window assembly 10. Specifically, the majority of the window assembly 10 is defined generally as greater than fifty percent of the window assembly 10. More typically, the majority is greater than seventy-five percent of the window assembly 10.
- the transparent layer 24 may span the majority of the window assembly 10 for maximizing the reduction of transmission of infrared radiation through the window assembly 10.
- the area 26 of the transparent layer 24 may span a minority of the window assembly 10. For example, the area 26 may span twenty percent of the window assembly 10 along the upper portion of the window assembly 10.
- the area 26 of the transparent layer 24 defines a periphery 28.
- the periphery 28 of the transparent layer 24 may define any suitable shape.
- the periphery 28 of the area 26 of the transparent layer 24 defines an upper edge 28a, an opposing lower edge 28b, and a pair of opposing side edges 28c, 28d connecting the upper and lower edges 28a, 28b.
- the periphery 28 defines a shape geometrically similar to the peripheral edge 22 of the window assembly 10.
- the periphery 28 may have any suitable shape for spanning the window assembly 10.
- the transparent layer 24 may be energizable as a defrosting or defogging element.
- the window assembly 10 includes a first bus bar 27 and a second bus bar 29 opposite the first bus bar 27.
- the first bus bar 27 is disposed along the upper edge 28a of the periphery 28 of the transparent layer 24 and the second bus bar 29 is disposed along the lower edge 28b of the periphery 28 of the transparent layer 24, or vice-versa.
- the first bus bar 27 may be disposed along the side edge 28c of the periphery 28 of the transparent layer 24 and the second bus bar 29 may be disposed along the opposing side edge 28d of the periphery 28 of the transparent layer 24, or vice-versa.
- the first and second bus bars 27, 29 are in direct electrical contact with the transparent layer 24.
- the first bus bar 27 is connected to a positive terminal of a battery of the vehicle 12 and the second bus bar 27 is connected to the vehicle body and ultimately to a ground terminal of a battery of the vehicle 12.
- the first bus bar 27 may be connected to ground and the second bus bar 27 may be connected to the positive terminal of a battery of the vehicle 12.
- Current passes through the transparent layer 24 between the first and second bus bars 27, 29 to energize the transparent layer 24.
- the electrical current passing through the transparent layer 24 heats the transparent layer 24 such that the transparent layer 24 can effectively defrost or defog.
- the transparent layer 24 may be energizable as a defrosting or defogging element according to various other methods and configurations.
- the transparent layer 24 may occupy an entirety of the area 26 such that the transparent layer 24.
- the area 26 of the transparent layer 24 is free of deletions, slits, or voids that are formed in the area 26 for antenna purposes. Having deletions, slits, or voids in the area 26 of the transparent layer 24 for antenna purposes can be costly and can add complexity to the manufacturing process.
- the window assembly 10 advantageously eliminates the need to modify the transparent layer 24 with costly deletions, slits, or voids in the area 26 of the transparent layer 24 for antenna purposes. In other words, in certain embodiments, the window assembly 10 does not rely on deletions, slits, or voids in the area 26 of the transparent layer 24 to modify antenna performance.
- a vehicle device such as a mirror or rain sensor, may be attached or mounted to the window assembly 10. Presence of the transparent layer 24 at a location where the vehicle device attaches to the window assembly 10 may adversely affect performance of the vehicle device. Therefore, the transparent layer 24 may include an opening, typically near the upper edge 28 of the transparent layer 24 to accommodate attachment of the vehicle device on the window assembly 10, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 .
- the opening for the vehicle device may extend into the outer region 30, as shown in FIG. 2 .
- the opening for the vehicle device is surrounded by the transparent layer 24 such that the opening is isolated from and does not extend into the outer region 30.
- Such an opening for the vehicle device is not regarded as an opening for antenna purposes, such as the above-described slits, voids, and openings, which are for antenna purposes.
- the opening for the vehicle device may have any suitable shape for accommodating the vehicle device.
- an outer region 30 is defined on the window assembly 10.
- the outer region 30 is devoid of the transparent layer 24.
- the outer region 30 is defined adjacent to the transparent layer 24 and along the periphery 28 of the area 26 of the transparent layer 24. In one embodiment, the outer region 30 is defined between the periphery 28 of the transparent layer 24 and the peripheral edge 22 of the window assembly 10.
- the outer region 30 may surround an entirety of the periphery 28 of the area 26 of the transparent layer 24. Having the outer region 30 surround an entirety of the periphery 28 of the transparent layer 24 advantageously provides electrical disconnection between the transparent layer 24 and the window frame 14.
- the outer region 30 may be defined on predetermined sections of the window assembly 10 such that the outer region 30 is not surrounding the transparent layer 24 continuously along periphery 28 of the transparent layer 24.
- the outer region 30 is devoid of the transparent layer 24 and is therefore, electrically non-conductive.
- the outer region 30 has a width defined generally by a distance between the periphery 28 of the transparent layer 24 and the peripheral edge 22 of the window assembly 10. In one embodiment, the width of the outer region 30 is greater than 0 mm and less than 200 mm. The width of the outer region 30 may vary depending upon how the window assembly 10 is fitted to the window frame 14. For example, the width of the outer region 30 may correspond to an overlap between the window frame 14 and the window assembly 10. The outer region 30 may separate the transparent layer 24 from the window frame 14 to avoid the possibility of an electrical path being established between the transparent layer 24 and the window frame 14, which may adversely affect antenna reception and radiation patterns. Furthermore, the outer region 30 protects the transparent layer 24 by separating the transparent layer 24 from the peripheral edge 22 of the window assembly 10, which is subjected to environmental factors that may degrade the quality of the transparent layer 24.
- the outer region 30 may be formed on the window assembly 10 according to any suitable technique known in the art. For instance, the inner surfaces 18a, 20a of the exterior and/or interior substrates 18, 20 may be masked before application of the transparent layer 24 to provide a desired shape of the outer region 30. Alternatively, the transparent layer 24 may be applied to the window assembly 10 such that the transparent layer 24 is spaced from the peripheral edge 22 of the window assembly 10. Additionally, selected portions of the transparent layer 24 may be removed or deleted to provide the desired shape of the outer region 30. Removal or deletion of selected portions of the transparent layer 24 may be accomplished using lasers, abrasive tools, chemical removal, and the like.
- an interlayer 32 may be disposed between the inner surfaces 18a, 20a of the exterior and interior substrates 18, 20, as illustrated in FIGS. 3A-3C .
- the window assembly 10 may include the exterior and interior substrates 18, 20 having the transparent layer 24 and the interlayer 32 sandwiched therebetween.
- the interlayer 32 bonds the exterior and interior substrates 18, 20 and prevents the window assembly 10 from shattering upon impact.
- the interlayer 32 is substantially transparent to light and typically includes a polymer or thermoplastic resin, such as polyvinyl butyral (PVB). Other suitable materials for implementing the interlayer 32 may be used.
- the interlayer 32 has a thickness of between 0.5 mm to 1 mm.
- the transparent layer 24 may be disposed adjacent the interlayer 32.
- the transparent layer 24 is disposed between the interlayer 32 and the inner surface 18a of the exterior substrate 18, as shown in FIG. 3B .
- the transparent layer 24 is disposed between the interlayer 32 and the inner surface 20a of the interior substrate 20.
- the transparent layer 24 and interlayer 32 are sandwiched between the exterior and interior substrates 18, 20 such that the interlayer 32 and the transparent layer 24 are abutting the inner surfaces 18a, 20a of the exterior and/or interior substrates 18, 20.
- the window assembly 10 includes the antenna element 16. As shown throughout the Figures, the antenna element 16 is disposed on the substrate 17. In one embodiment, the antenna element 16 is disposed between the exterior and interior substrates 18, 20. In another embodiment, the antenna element 16 is disposed between the interlayer 32 and the inner surface 18a of the exterior substrate 18, as shown in FIG. 3B . Alternatively, as shown in FIGS. 3A and 3C , the antenna element 16 is disposed between the interlayer 32 and the inner surface 20a of the interior substrate 20. Between the exterior and interior substrates 18, 20, the antenna element 16 may be disposed coplanar with the transparent layer 24.
- the antenna element 16 may be disposed on the outer surface 18b of the exterior substrate 18 or the outer surface 20b of the interior substrate 20.
- the antenna element 16 may be disposed non-coplanar with the transparent layer 24.
- the antenna element 16 is non-coplanar with the transparent layer 24 in the area 26 of the transparent layer 24 but coplanar with the transparent layer 24 in the outer region 30.
- the antenna element 16 is disposed within the peripheral edge 22 of the window assembly 10 such that antenna element 16 does not physically extend beyond the peripheral edge 22 of the window assembly 10.
- the antenna element 16 is electrically conductive.
- the antenna element 16 may be formed of any suitable conductor.
- the antenna element 16 may be applied to the window assembly 10 according to any suitable method, such as printing, firing, adhesion and the like.
- the antenna element 16 comprises an electrically conductive paste, such as a silver paste.
- the antenna element 16 comprises a conductive adhesive, such as a copper tape.
- the antenna element 16 comprises metal wire.
- the antenna element 16 generally includes a substantially flat configuration. As such, the antenna element 16 may be suitably disposed between the exterior and interior substrates 18, 20.
- the antenna element 16 is substantially opaque to light such that light cannot pass through the antenna element 16.
- the first and second antenna segments 40, 50 may be applied to the window assembly 10 without any modification to the area 28 of the transparent layer 24.
- the antenna element 16 includes a first antenna segment 40.
- the first antenna segment 40 is elongated.
- the first antenna segment 40 has a first end 42 and a second end 44 opposite the first end 42.
- the first antenna segment 40 has a rectangular configuration with a pair of short sides and a pair of connecting elongated sides.
- the first and second ends 42, 44 of the first antenna segment 40 are generally defined at the short sides of the rectangular configuration.
- the first antenna segment 40 may also have an area A1 defined by a length "L1" and a width "W1."
- the width W1 of the first antenna segment 40 is substantially consistent along the length L1 of the first antenna segment 40.
- the width W1 of the first antenna segment 40 may vary along the length L1 of the first antenna segment 50.
- the length L1 of the first antenna segment 40 may be any suitable dimension. In one embodiment, the length L1 of the first antenna segment 40 is in a range between 5-25 cm. In another embodiment, the length L1 of the first antenna segment 40 is in a range between 10-15 cm. In one specific embodiment the length L1 of the first antenna segment 40 is 13 cm or 25 cm.
- the Width W1 of the first antenna segment 40 may be any suitable dimension. In one embodiment, the width W1 of the first antenna segment 40 is in a range between 0.2-1 cm. In another embodiment, the width W1 of the first antenna segment 40 is approximately 0.5 cm. The first antenna segment 40 may have other configurations and dimensions without departing from the scope of the invention.
- the first antenna segment 40 is disposed in the outer region 30. In the outer region 30, the first antenna segment 40 is spaced from the periphery 28 of the transparent layer 24. In other words, the first antenna segment 40 does not directly contact the transparent layer 24.
- the first antenna segment 40 extends along the periphery 28 of the transparent layer 24. Having the first antenna segment 40 extend along the periphery 28 is important for improving antenna impedance matching and radiation pattern altering, as will be described in greater detail below. In one embodiment, as shown throughout the Figures, the first antenna segment 40 extends substantially parallel to the periphery 28. In instances where the first antenna segment 40 has a rectangular configuration, the elongated side of the first antenna segment 40 may extend parallel to the periphery 28. Having the first antenna segment 40 extend substantially parallel to the periphery 28 maximizes antenna impedance matching and radiation pattern altering effects by the first antenna segment 40. Alternatively, the first antenna segment 40 extends along the periphery 28 at a predetermined angle.
- the predetermined angle is defined generally between the periphery 28 and an edge of the first antenna segment 40 adjacent the periphery 28. In one instance, the predetermined angle is approximately 15 degrees. In some instances, the first end 42 of the first antenna segment 40 may be disposed nearer to the periphery 28 than the second end 44 of the first antenna segment 40. Alternatively, the first end 42 of the first antenna segment 40 may be disposed further from the periphery 28 than the second end 44 of the first antenna segment 40.
- the first antenna segment 40 extends partially along one of the side edges 28c, 28d of the periphery 28 and partially along one of the upper and lower edges 28a, 28b of the periphery 28.
- the periphery 28 of the transparent layer 24 defines a corner where one of the side edges 28c, 28d of the periphery 28 connects to one of the upper and lower edges 28a, 28b of the periphery 28.
- the first antenna segment 40 extends along the corner of the periphery 28.
- the first antenna segment 40 may bend or curve in the outer region 30 such that the first antenna segment 40 maintains position along the periphery 28 of the transparent layer 24.
- the antenna element 16 includes a second antenna segment 50.
- the second antenna segment 50 extends from the first antenna segment 40 toward the transparent layer 24. In doing so, the second antenna segment 50 crosses the periphery 28 of the transparent layer 24.
- the second antenna segment 50 is disposed partially in the outer region 30 and disposed partially in the area 26 of the transparent layer 24. Any suitable portion of the second antenna segment 50 may be disposed in the transparent layer 24 or the outer region 30. For instance, one portion of the second antenna segment 50 representing eighty percent of the antenna element 16 may be disposed the outer region 30 while the remaining portion representing twenty percent of second antenna segment 50 may be disposed in the transparent layer 24, or vice-versa.
- the second antenna segment 50 has a first end 52 and a second end 54 opposite the first end 52.
- the first end 52 of the second antenna segment 50 connects to the first antenna segment 40.
- the second antenna segment 50 abuts and is in direct electrical contact with the transparent layer 24.
- the second antenna segment 50 is directly adjacent to the transparent layer 24 such that the second antenna segment 50 and the transparent layer 24 are in a directly contacting state. At least a portion of the second antenna segment 50 is disposed directly on the transparent layer 24. In one instance, the second end 54 of the second antenna segment 50 connects to the transparent layer 24.
- the second antenna segment 50 may abut the transparent layer 24 according to various configurations. In one embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 3A-3C , the second antenna segment 50 may be disposed directly on the transparent layer 24. In FIGS. 3A- 3C , the second antenna segment 50 is disposed non-coplanar with the transparent layer 24. Alternatively, the second antenna segment 50 may be disposed coplanar with the transparent layer 24.
- the second antenna segment 50 advantageously provides a DC connection between the first antenna segment 40 and the transparent layer 24.
- the second antenna segment 50 allows a footprint of the antenna element 16 to be substantially minimized. Specifically, the areas A1/A2 of the first and second antenna segments 40, 50 may be minimized.
- the second antenna segment 50 extends substantially perpendicular from the first antenna segment 40.
- the second antenna segment 50 extends from the first antenna segment 40 between the first and second ends 42, 44 of the first antenna segment 40. In such instances, the second antenna segment 50 is spaced from each one of the first and second ends 42, 44 of the first antenna segment 50.
- the second antenna segment 50 extends from the first antenna segment 40 at one of the first and second ends 42, 44 of the first antenna segment 50.
- the first and second elements 40, 50 have an L-shaped configuration.
- the second antenna segment 50 has a rectangular configuration with a pair of short sides and a pair of connecting elongated sides.
- the first and second ends 52, 54 of the second antenna segment 50 are generally defined at the short sides of the rectangular configuration.
- the second antenna segment 50 may have other configurations, such as a square configuration.
- the second antenna segment 50 may also define an area A2 having a length "L2" and a width "W2."
- the width W2 of the second antenna segment 50 is substantially consistent along the length L2 of the second antenna segment 50.
- the width W2 of the second antenna segment 50 may vary along the length L2 of the second antenna segment 50.
- the length L2 of the second antenna segment 50 may be any suitable dimension. In one embodiment, the length L2 of the second antenna segment 50 is in a range between 0.5-10 cm. In another embodiment, the length L2 of the second antenna segment 50 is approximately 1-2 cm.
- the width W2 of the second antenna segment 50 may be any suitable dimension. In one embodiment, the width W2 of the second antenna segment 50 is in a range between 0.2-1 cm. In another embodiment, the width W2 of the second antenna segment 50 is approximately 0.5 cm. The second antenna segment 50 may have other configurations without departing from the scope of the invention.
- the first and second antenna segments 40, 50 may be defined according to various configurations with respect to one another.
- the length L1 of the first antenna segment 40 is longer than the length L2 of the second antenna segment 50.
- the length L1 of the first antenna segment 40 may be shorter than the length L2 of the second antenna segment 50.
- the length L1 of the first antenna segment 40 may be equal to the length L2 of the second antenna segment 50.
- the width W1 of the first antenna segment 40 is wider than the width W2 of the second antenna segment 50.
- the width W1 of the first antenna segment 40 is narrower than the width W2 of the second antenna segment 50.
- the width W1 of the first antenna segment 40 may be equal to the width W2 of the second antenna segment 50.
- the area A1 of the first antenna segment 40 may be greater than the area A2 of the second antenna segment 50.
- the area A1 of the first antenna segment 40 may be less than the area A2 of the second antenna segment 50.
- the area A1 of the first antenna segment 40 may be equal to the area A2 of the second antenna segment 50.
- first and second antenna segments 40, 50 are integrally formed such that the second antenna segment 50 extends integrally from the first antenna segment 40.
- first and second antenna segments 40, 50 are formed separately such that the second antenna segment 50 extends non-integrally from the first antenna segment 40.
- the first and second antenna segments 40, 50 are configured to transmit and/or receive radio signals. Furthermore, the first and second antenna segments 40, 50 play an important role in optimizing antenna performance of the window assembly 10. For example, the first and second antenna segments 40, 50 operate to alter radiation patterns and provide impedance matching. In one embodiment, the first and second antenna segments 40, 50 both operate to alter radiation patterns and provide impedance matching. In another embodiment, the first antenna segment 40 has an emphasized role in operating to alter radiation patterns while the second antenna segment 50 has an emphasized role in providing impedance matching, or vice-versa.
- the first and second antenna segments 40, 50 operate to provide impedance matching by matching impedance of the first antenna segment 40, the second antenna 50, and the transparent layer 24 to an impedance of a cable or circuit.
- the cable for example, may be a cable, such as a coaxial cable, that is connected to a feeding element that energizes the first antenna segment 40, the second antenna 50, and the transparent layer 24, as will be described below.
- the circuit for example, may be an amplifier or other circuits that are connected to the first antenna segment 40, the second antenna 50, and the transparent layer 24 through either a cable or lead wire.
- the first and second antenna segments 40, 50 operate to alter radiation patterns by altering directions by which radio signals are transmitted and/or received by the first antenna segment 40, the second antenna 50, and/or the transparent layer 24. More specifically, the first and/or second antenna segments 40, 50 may alter directions by which radio signal are transmitted and/or received such that the radiation pattern(s) exhibit greater omni-directionality. By doing so, the first and second antenna segments 40, 50 provide greater control over radiation patterns. The first and second antenna segments 40, 50 further help to counteract electromagnetic interference to ensure optimal reception. As such, the first and second antenna segments 40, 50 enhance antenna performance.
- the first antenna segment 40 has an emphasized role in radiation pattern alternation. At lower frequencies, the first antenna segment 40 has an emphasized role in impedance matching.
- Antenna performance is further fine-tuned based upon the strategic and dimensioning of the first and second antenna segments 40, 50 and positioning of such in relation to the transparent layer 24 and each other.
- the length L1/L2, width W1/W2, and/or area A1/A2 of the first and second antenna segments 40, 50 each have a significant impact on antenna performance. As shown in FIG.
- first and second antenna segments 40, 50 include (i) a distance "a" between the first antenna segment 40 and the periphery 28 of the transparent layer 24, (ii) a distance "b” between the second antenna segment 50 and the first and/or second ends 42, 44 of the first antenna segment 40, (iii) a distance "c” between the first antenna segment 40 and the peripheral edge 22 of the window assembly 10, and (iv) a distance "d” between the second end 54 of the second antenna segment 50 and the periphery 28 of the transparent layer 24.
- the first and second antenna segments 40, 50 and the transparent layer 24 each have an electrical conductivity.
- the electrical conductivity of each of the first and second antenna segments 40, 50 is of a higher order of magnitude than the electrical conductivity of the transparent layer 24. By having the electrical conductivity configured as such, more electrical current concentrates in the first and second antenna segments 40, 50 than the transparent layer 24. This allows for greater impact on impedance matching and radiation pattern alteration while allowing a reduction in the footprint of the antenna element 16.
- the electrical conductivity of one of the first and second antenna segments 40, 50 is of a higher order of magnitude than the electrical conductivity than the other one of the first and second antenna segments 40, 50.
- the window assembly 10 includes a feeding element 60.
- the feeding element 60 is coupled to the antenna element 16.
- the feeding element 60 is coupled to the first antenna segment 40.
- the feeding element 60 is coupled between the first and second ends 42, 44 of the first antenna segment 40.
- the feeding element 60 is spaced from each one of the first and second ends 42, 44 of the first antenna segment 40.
- the feeding element 60 is coupled to the first antenna segment 40 at one of the first and second ends 42, 44 of the first antenna segment 40.
- the feeding element 60 couples to the second antenna segment 50.
- the feeding element 60 may be positioned with respect to the antenna element 16 according to various other configurations.
- the feeding element 60 is disposed on the window assembly 10 according to various configurations. As shown in the Figures, the feeding element 60 is disposed in the outer region 60. In such instances, the feeding element 60 is spaced from the transparent layer 24 such that feeding element 60 does not directly abut the transparent layer 24.
- the feeding element 60 may be disposed entirely within the outer region 30. Alternatively, part of the feeding element 60 may be disposed in the outer region 30.
- the feeding element 60 may be disposed beyond the outer region 30. For instance, the feeding element 60 may partially extend beyond the peripheral edge 22 of the window assembly 10, as shown in FIG. 2 . This allows the feeding element 60 to be easily connected to corresponding electrical systems or the vehicle 12 during manufacturing. Having the antenna element 16 disposed along the periphery 28 of the transparent layer 24 allows for simplified feeding arrangements because the feeding element 60 generally must connect to antenna element 16 from the peripheral edge 22 of the window assembly 10.
- the feeding element 60 may be disposed on the substrate 17.
- the feeding element 60 may be disposed adjacent and in planar relationship to the antenna element 16 and the transparent layer 24.
- the feeding element 60 may be disposed coplanar or non-coplanar with respect to the antenna element 16.
- the feeding element 60 is disposed between the interlayer 32 and the inner surface 20a of the interior substrate 20.
- the feeding element 60 is disposed between the interlayer 32 and the inner surface 18a of the exterior substrate 18.
- the feeding element 60 may also be disposed on the outer surface 18b, 20b of one of the exterior and interior substrates 18, 20, as shown in FIG. 3C .
- the feeding element 60 is abutting and in direct electrical connection with the antenna element 16.
- the feeding element 60 passes electrical current to the antenna element 16 directly through an electrically conductive material, such as a feeding strip or wire, physically attached to the antenna element 16.
- the feeding element 60 may be directly wired or soldered to the antenna element 16.
- the feeding element 60 is non-coplanar with the antenna element 16 and directly connected atop the first antenna segment 40.
- the feeding element 60 coplanar with the antenna element 16 and directly connected to one of the first and second ends 42, 44 of the first antenna segment 40.
- the feeding element 60 and the antenna element 16 may be abutting and in direct electrical connection on the window assembly 10 according to several other configurations with respect to the transparent layer 24 and the interlayer 32 not specifically illustrated throughout the Figures.
- the feeding element 60 may be spaced from and capacitively coupled to the antenna element 16.
- the feeding element 60 induces electrical current to the antenna element 16 through the air or a dielectric material, such as the exterior or interior substrates 18, 20 and/or interlayer 32.
- the feeding element 60 is neither hardwired nor in direct contact with the antenna element 16 and is generally disposed non-coplanar with the antenna element 16.
- the feeding element 60 is disposed on the outer surface 20b of the interior substrate 20 and capacitively coupled to the antenna element 16 disposed between the interlayer 32 and the inner surface 20a of the interior substrate 20.
- the feeding element 60 may be spaced from and capacitively coupled to the antenna element 16 on the window assembly 10 according to several other embodiments with respect to the transparent layer 24 and the interlayer 32 which are not specifically illustrated throughout the Figures.
- the feeding element 60 is configured to energize the first and second antenna segments 40, 50 and the transparent layer 24 such that first and second antenna segments 40, 50 and the transparent layer 24 collectively transmit and/or receive radio frequency signals.
- the feeding element 60 jointly energizes the antenna element 16 and the transparent layer 24.
- the feeding element 60 is electrically coupled to the antenna element 16 and the transparent layer 24 such that the antenna element 16 and the transparent layer 24 operate as active antenna elements for excitation or reception of radio frequency waves.
- the term "energize” is understood to describe an electrical relationship between the feeding element 60 and the antenna element 16 and transparent layer 24 whereby the feeding element 60 excites the antenna element 16 and transparent layer 24 for transmission of radio waves, and is electrically coupled to the antenna element 16 and transparent layer 24 for reception of impinging radio waves.
- the feeding element 60 may include any suitable material for energizing the antenna element 16. As shown throughout the Figures, the feeding element 60 may couple to the antenna element 16 at a feed point, identified as an "X" throughout the Figures. The feed point may be disposed at various locations with respect to the feeding element 60. In one embodiment, the feeding element 60 includes a coaxial line having a center conductor coupled to the antenna element 16 at the feed point "X" and a ground conductor grounded to the window frame 14. In other embodiments, the feeding element 60 includes a feeding strip, a feeding wire, or a combination of both. Also, the feeding element 60 may be a balanced or unbalanced line. For example, the feeding element 60 may be an unbalanced coaxial cable, microstrip, or single wire line. Furthermore, the feeding element 60 may include any suitable feeding network for providing phase shifting to the radio frequency signal transmitted or received by the antenna element 16. In one embodiment, the feeding element 60 couples to the antenna element 16 at a plurality of feed points, as shown in FIG. 9 .
- the first and second antenna segments 40, 50 and the transparent layer 24 collectively transmit and/or receive linearly polarized radio frequency signals.
- the first and second antenna segments 40, 50 and the transparent layer 24 may collectively transmit and/or receive radio frequency signals for at least one of Remote Keyless Entry (RKE), Digital Audio Broadcasting (DAB), FM, cellular and TV applications.
- RKE Remote Keyless Entry
- DAB Digital Audio Broadcasting
- FM FM
- cellular and TV applications cellular and TV applications.
- Antenna performance is further fine-tuned based upon the strategic dimensioning of the feeding element 60 and positioning of such in relation to the first and second antenna segments 40, 50 and/or the transparent layer 24.
- one example of such strategic positing and dimensioning of the feeding element 60 includes a distance "e" between the feed point "X" of the feeding element 60 and the first and/or second ends 42, 44 of the first antenna segment 40.
- the feeding element 60 and the antenna element 16 may be integrated into a single component.
- the single component including the feeding element 60 and the antenna element 16 may be readily removed and attached to the window assembly 10.
- the single component includes conductors and/or traces embedded within an electrically isolating member.
- the single component may have a substantially flat configuration such that the single component may be easily sandwiched between the interior and exterior substrates 18, 20.
- the single component may include a mating connector for connecting to the corresponding electrical system, such as the electrical system of the vehicle 12, and the like.
- the outer region 30 may have any suitable dimensions, configuration, or shape for accommodating the antenna element 16 and/or feeding element 60.
- the outer region 30 may have a rectangular configuration, a curved configuration, or the like. More specifically, outer region 30 may follow a substantially linear path, curved path, or the like.
- the outer region 30 may be sized such that the antenna element 16 and/or the feeding element 60 substantially occupy the outer region 30.
- the outer region 30 may be sized to the extent necessary to effectively accommodate the antenna element 16 and/or feeding element 60.
- the area 26 of the transparent layer 24 is maximized for its other functions, such as an antenna radiating element or an element for reflecting infrared radiation penetrating the window assembly 10.
- the antenna element 16 and/or feeding element 60 may occupy only a minority of the outer region 30. Disposal of the antenna element 16 and/or feeding element 60 in the outer region 30 provides an unobstructed field of view for the driver of the vehicle 12.
- the antenna element 16 and the feeding element 60 are positioned such that the antenna element 16 and the feeding element 60 cause minimal obstruction to the vision of an occupant of the vehicle 12.
- the antenna element 16 and the feeding element 60 are disposed substantially in the outer region 30 such that the antenna element 16 and the feeding element 60 do not obstruct the vision of the occupant.
- the window assembly 10 may include an opaque layer 62 that is applied to one of the interior and exterior substrates 18, 20. The opaque layer 62 conceals the antenna element 16 and the feeding element 60 for an aesthetically appealing configuration. As shown in the Figures, the opaque layer 62 extends from the peripheral edge 22 of the window assembly 10 toward the transparent layer 24.
- the opaque layer 62 extends past the periphery 28 of the transparent layer 24. By doing so, the opaque layer 62 conceals the second antenna segment 50 that extends into the transparent layer 24 thereby completely concealing the antenna element 16.
- the opaque layer 62 is formed of a ceramic print 62.
- the window assembly 10 may include a plurality of antenna elements 16 and/or a plurality of feeding elements 60.
- a single feeding element 60 is coupled to a single antenna element 16.
- Such configurations may be defined as a single-port configuration.
- the single feeding element 60 may connect to the antenna element 16 at a plurality of feed points.
- the feeding element 60 may include a conductor 64 coupled to each feed point. The conductors 64 may be connected, or spliced together, such that only a single conductor 64 is required to enter the feeding element 60 for energizing the antenna element 16 at the plurality of feed points.
- a single feeding element 60 is coupled to a plurality of antenna elements 16.
- the window assembly 10 includes two antenna elements 16 and a single feeding element 60 coupled to both of the antenna elements 16.
- the feeding element 60 connects to each of the antenna elements 16 at a separate feed point.
- the single feeding element 60 may include separate conductors 64 each coupled to each separate antenna element 16.
- the feeding element 60 effectively operates as two separate feeding elements 60 consolidated into a single feeding unit.
- the feeding element 60 couples to one of the first and second ends 42, 44 of the first antenna segment 40 of each one of the two antenna elements 16.
- the feeding element 60 may couple to various other parts of the antenna element(s) 16.
- the antenna element 16 may have a third antenna segment 70.
- the third antenna segment 70 extends from the first antenna segment 40 to the transparent layer 24.
- the third antenna segment 70 crosses the periphery 28 of the transparent layer 24.
- the third antenna segment 70 abuts and is in direct electrical contact with the transparent layer 24.
- the addition of the third antenna segment 70 generally provides greater flexibility to improve impedance of the window assembly 10 as compared with simpler configurations. As such, the window assembly 10 including the third antenna segment 70 generally exhibits an even wider transmission or reception bandwidth as compared with the window assembly 10 having the antenna element 16 having only the first and second segment 40, 50.
- the third antenna segment 70 extends perpendicularly from the first antenna segment 40 to the transparent layer 24.
- the third antenna segment 70 extends from the first antenna segment 40 between the first and second ends 42, 44 of the first antenna segment 40. In such configurations, the third antenna segment 70 is spaced from each one of the first and second ends 42, 44 of the first antenna segment 40.
- the third antenna segment 70 extends from the first antenna segment 40 at one of the first and second ends 42, 44 of the first antenna segment 40.
- FIGS. 4 and 9 the third antenna segment 70 extends from the first antenna segment 40 at one of the first and second ends 42, 44 of the first antenna segment 40.
- the second antenna segment 50 extends from the first antenna segment 40 at one of the first and second ends 42, 44 of the first antenna segment 40 and the third antenna segment 70 extends from the first antenna segment 40 at the other one of the first and second ends 42, 44 of the first antenna segment 40.
- the first, second, and third antenna segments 40, 50, 70 have a substantially C-shaped configuration.
- the third antenna segment 70 may extend according to other configurations without departing form the scope of the invention.
- the second antenna segment 50 may correspond to the third antenna segment 50.
- those properties of the second antenna segment 50 described herein may be referenced to describe the third antenna segment 70.
- the second and third antenna segments 50 are not necessarily identical and may exhibit different properties and provide unique advantages.
- the antenna element 16 may have a fourth antenna segment 80.
- the fourth antenna segment 80 extends from the second antenna segment 50.
- the fourth antenna segment 80 abuts and is in direct electrical connection with the transparent layer 24.
- the fourth antenna segment 80 includes an area "A4" having a length "L4" and a width "W4.”
- the length L4 and width W4 of the fourth antenna segment 80 may be any suitable dimensions.
- the length L4 of the fourth antenna segment 80 is in a range between 5-25 cm. In other embodiments, the length L4 of the fourth antenna segment 80 is approximately 15 cm.
- the width W4 of the fourth antenna segment 40 is in a range between 0.2-1 cm. In another embodiment, the width W4 of the fourth antenna segment 40 is approximately 0.5 cm.
- the window assembly 10 including the fourth antenna segment 80 generally exhibits an even wider transmission or reception bandwidth as compared with the window assembly 10 having the antenna element 16 having only the first and second antenna segments 40, 50 or the first, second, and third antenna segments 40, 50, 70.
- the fourth antenna segment 80 is disposed entirely within the periphery 28 of the transparent layer 24. In another embodiment, as shown in FIG. 15 , the fourth antenna segment 80 is disposed partially within the periphery 28 of the transparent layer 24 and partially in the outer region 30.
- the fourth antenna segment 80 extends perpendicular to the second antenna segment 50 and parallel to the first antenna segment 40. In FIG. 17 , the fourth antenna segment 80 connects to both the second antenna segment 50 and the third antenna segment 70. In FIG. 17 , the fourth antenna segment 80 extends perpendicularly from both the second antenna segment 50 and the third antenna segment 70.
- the fourth antenna segment 80 includes a first end 82 and a second end 84 opposite the first end 82.
- second antenna segment 50 connects to the fourth antenna segment 80 between the first and second ends 82, 84 of the fourth antenna segment 80.
- the second antenna segment 50 is spaced from each one of the first and second ends 82, 84 of the fourth antenna segment 80.
- the second antenna segment 50 connects to the fourth antenna segment 80 at one of the first and second ends 82, 84 of the fourth antenna segment 80. In such instances the second antenna segment 50 and the fourth antenna segment 80 have an L-shaped configuration.
- FIG. 16-18 second antenna segment 50 connects to the fourth antenna segment 80 between the first and second ends 82, 84 of the fourth antenna segment 80. In such configurations, the second antenna segment 50 is spaced from each one of the first and second ends 82, 84 of the fourth antenna segment 80.
- the second antenna segment 50 connects to the fourth antenna segment 80 at one of the first and second ends 82, 84 of the fourth antenna segment 80. In such instances the
- the second and third antenna segments 50, 70 connect to the fourth antenna segment 80 between the first and second ends 82, 84 of the fourth antenna segment 80 such that the each one of the second and third antenna segments 50, 70 are each spaced from the first and second ends 82, 84 of the fourth antenna segment 80.
- the fourth antenna segment 80 may extend according to other configurations without departing form the scope of the invention.
- Antenna performance is further fine-tuned based upon the strategic dimensioning of the fourth antenna segment 80 and positioning of such in relation to the transparent layer 24 other antenna segments 40, 50, 70.
- the length L4, width W4, and/or area A4 of the fourth antenna segment 80 may have a significant impact on antenna performance.
- FIG. 16 the length L4, width W4, and/or area A4 of the fourth antenna segment 80 may have a significant impact on antenna performance.
- the fourth antenna segment 80 may be related to the length L1 of the first antenna segment 40 according to a predetermined ratio or fraction. For example, L1 may be twice as long as L4 in one embodiment. Alternatively, L4 may be one-fourth as long as L1 in another embodiment.
- the fourth antenna segment 80 is not necessarily identical to the first antenna segment 40 and each may exhibit different properties and provide unique advantages.
- the antenna element 16 may have a fifth antenna segment 90.
- the fifth antenna segment 90 extends from the third antenna segment 70.
- the fifth antenna segment 90 is spaced from the forth antenna segment 80.
- the fifth antenna segment 90 abuts and is in direct electrical connection with the transparent layer 24.
- the fifth antenna segment 90 includes a first end 92 and a second end 94 opposite the first end 92.
- the addition of the fifth antenna segment 90 generally provides greater flexibility to improve impedance of the window assembly 10 as compared with simpler configurations. As such, the window assembly 10 including the fifth antenna segment 90 generally exhibits an even wider transmission or reception bandwidth as compared with the window assembly 10 having the antenna element 16 having only the first, second, third, and/or fourth antenna segments 40, 50, 70, 80.
- the fourth antenna segment 80 may be applied to the fifth antenna segment 90.
- those properties of the fourth antenna segment 80 described herein may be referenced to describe the fifth antenna segment 90.
- the fourth antenna segment 80 is not necessarily identical to the fifth antenna segment 90 as the fourth and fifth antenna segments 80, 90 may exhibit different properties and provide unique advantages.
- the window assembly 10 includes two antenna elements 16.
- a signal processor 100 is connected to both antenna elements 16.
- the signal processor 100 is configured to select and/or combine radio frequency signals transmittable and/or receivable by the antenna elements 16. By doing so, the two antenna elements 16 operate in diversity. By operating in diversity, the antenna elements 16 transmit and/or receive radio frequency signals in multiple directions within a field of reception to minimize interference and temporary fading of the signal.
- the two antenna elements 16 in conjunction with the transparent layer 24 operate to transmit radio signals for TV applications.
- the window assembly 10 includes a first, second, and third antenna element 16a, 16b, 16c each being disposed along the first edge 28c of the periphery 28 and a fourth, fifth, and sixth antenna element 16d, 16e, 16f each being disposed along the opposing second edge 28d of the periphery 28.
- the first, second, third, fourth, fifth, and sixth antenna elements 16a, 16b, 16c, 16d, 16e, and 16f each include a first antenna segment 40 and a second antenna segment 50.
- the first and fourth antenna elements 16a, 16d each further include a third antenna segment 70.
- the first antenna segment 40 of each of the antenna elements 16a, 16b, 16c, 16d, 16e, and 16f are elongated and disposed in the outer region 30 and spaced from the periphery 28.
- the first antenna segment 40 of each of the antenna elements 16a, 16b, 16c, 16d, 16e, and 16f extends substantially parallel to the periphery 28 and is spaced from the periphery 28.
- the second antenna segment 50 of each of the antenna elements 16a, 16b, 16c, 16d, 16e, and 16f extends substantially perpendicular from the first antenna segment 40 of each of the antenna elements 16a, 16b, 16c, 16d, 16e, and 16f toward the transparent layer 24 such that each of the second antenna segments 50 crosses the periphery 28 of the transparent layer 24.
- Each of the second antenna segments 50 abuts and is in direct electrical contact with the transparent layer 24.
- the third antenna segment 70 of each of the first and fourth antenna elements 16a, 16d are spaced from the second antenna segment 50 of each of the first and fourth antenna elements 16a, 16d and extend substantially perpendicular from the first antenna segment 40 of each of the first and fourth antenna elements 16a, 16d toward the transparent layer 24.
- Each of the third antenna segments 70 crosses the periphery 28 of the transparent layer 24 and abuts and is in direct electrical contact with the transparent layer 24.
- a plurality of feeding elements 60 are provided.
- Each of said antenna elements 16a, 16b, 16c, 16d, 16e, and 16f are coupled to one of the feeding elements 60 of the plurality.
- a first feeding element 60a is coupled to the first antenna element 16a for energizing the first antenna element 16a and the transparent layer 24.
- a second feeding element 60b is coupled to both the second and third antenna elements 16b, 16c for energizing the first and second antenna elements 16b, 16c and the transparent layer 24.
- a third feeding element 60c is coupled to the fourth antenna element 16d for energizing the fourth antenna element 16d and the transparent layer 24.
- a fourth feeding element 60d is coupled to the fifth and sixth antenna elements 16e, 16f for energizing the fifth and sixth antenna elements 16e, 16f and the transparent layer 24.
- the first antenna element 16a transmits and/or receives radio signals for TV applications
- the second antenna element 16b transmits and/or receives radio signals for Remote Keyless Entry applications
- the second antenna element 16c transmits and/or receives radio signals for FM or Digital Audio Broadcasting applications
- the fourth antenna element 16d transmits and/or receives radio signals for TV applications
- the fifth antenna element 16e transmits and/or receives radio signals for TV applications
- the sixth antenna element 16e transmits and/or receives radio signals for FM or Digital Audio Broadcasting applications.
- the transparent layer 24 is energizable as the defrosting or defogging element.
- the window assembly 10 includes a first antenna element 16a and a second antenna element 16b with the first antenna element 16a being disposed along the first edge 28c of the periphery 28 and the second antenna element 16b being disposed along the opposing second edge 28d of the periphery 28.
- Each of the first and second antenna elements 16a, 16b includes at least a first antenna segment 40 and a second antenna segment 50.
- the first antenna segment 40 of each of the first and second antenna elements 16a, 16b is elongated and disposed in the outer region 30 and spaced from the periphery 28.
- the first antenna segment 40 of the first antenna element 16a extends along the first edge 28c of the periphery 28.
- the first antenna segment 40 of the second antenna element 16b extends along the opposing second edge 28d of the periphery 28.
- the second antenna segment 50 of each of the first and second antenna elements 16a 16b extends from the first antenna segment 40 of each of the first and second antenna elements 16a, 16b toward the transparent layer 24 such that each of the second antenna segments 50 crosses the periphery 28 of the transparent layer 24 and with each of the second antenna segments 50 abutting and being in direct electrical contact with the transparent layer 24.
- a first feeding element 60a is coupled to the first antenna element 16a for energizing the first and second antenna segments 40, 50 of the first antenna element 16a and the transparent layer 24 such that the first and second antenna segments 40, 50 and the transparent layer 24 collectively transmit and/or receive radio frequency signals.
- a second feeding element 60b is coupled to the second antenna element 16b for energizing the first and second antenna segments 40, 50 of the second antenna element and the transparent layer such that the first and second antenna segments 40, 50 and the transparent layer 24 collectively transmit and/or receive radio frequency signals.
- each of the first and second antenna elements 16a, 16b may each further include the third antenna segment 70.
- the third antenna segment 70 of each of the first and second antenna elements 16a, 16b is spaced from the second antenna segment 50 of each of the first and second antenna elements 16, 16b and extends from the first antenna segment 40 of each of the first and second antenna elements 16, 16b toward the transparent layer 24.
- Each of the third antenna segments 70 crosses the periphery 28 of the transparent layer 24.
- Each of the third antenna segments 70 abuts and is in direct electrical contact with the transparent layer 24.
- the first feeding element 60a is coupled to the first antenna element 16a for energizing the first, second, and third antenna segments 40, 50, 70 of the first antenna element 16a and the transparent layer 24 such that the first, second, and third antenna segments 40, 50, 70 and the transparent layer 24 collectively transmit and/or receive radio frequency signals.
- the second feeding element 60b is coupled to the second antenna element 16b for energizing the first, second, and third antenna segments 40, 50, 70 of the second antenna element and the transparent layer such that the first, second, and third antenna segments 40, 50, 70 and the transparent layer 24 collectively transmit radio frequency signals.
- the window assembly 10 of FIG. 4 transmits radio frequency signals for TV applications.
- the window assembly 10 may include a parasitic element 110.
- the parasitic element 100 may be formed of a conductive material, such as a metallic print.
- the parasitic element 110 may have different configurations. In one embodiment, the parasitic element 110 has an elongated configuration. In another embodiment, the parasitic element 110 has an L-shaped configuration or a T-shaped configuration.
- the parasitic element 110 is spaced from the antenna element 16. The parasitic element 110 is does not abut the antenna element 16.
- the parasitic element 110 is electrically disconnected from the transparent layer 24. In another embodiment, the parasitic element 110 is electrically connected to the transparent layer 24.
- the parasitic element 110 may be disposed entirely in the outer region 30 such that the parasitic element 110 is surrounded by the outer region 30.
- the parasitic element 110 element may be disposed entirely within the periphery 28 of the transparent layer 24.
- the parasitic element 110 element may be disposed partially in the outer region 30 and partially within the periphery 28 of the transparent layer 24.
- FIGS. 20 and 21 are charts illustrating antenna performance of the window assembly 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention.
- the chart in FIG. 20 illustrates antenna performance where vertical polarization is utilized.
- the chart in FIG. 21 illustrates antenna performance where horizontal polarization is utilized.
- the antenna performance in both FIGS. 20 and 21 was measured in the VHF range. More specifically, the antenna performance was measured in the TV application range of 170-222 MHz's
- FIGS. 20 and 21 illustrate antenna gain measured in dBi (isotropic).
- the window assembly 10 exhibited gains greater than -15 dBi throughout the given frequency range at vertical polarization.
- the window assembly 10 exhibited gains greater than -20 dBi throughout the given frequency range at horizontal polarization.
- the gain exhibited is substantially consistent across the given frequency range.
- Examples of such embodiments that may exhibit such antenna performance include, but are not limited to, the window assembly 10 of FIG. 2 . More specifically, any given one, or a combination of antenna elements 16a, 16d and 16e may receive radio frequency signals in the TV application range of 170-222 MHz and exhibit such advantageous results.
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Description
- The subject invention generally relates to a window assembly. More specifically, the subject invention relates to a window assembly having a transparent layer and an antenna element.
- Recently, there is increasing demand for vehicle windshields having clear films or coatings embedded within the windshield for various purposes. Such clear films or coatings often have metal compounds, such as metal oxides, for making the clear films or coatings electrically conductive. The clear films or coatings have been applied to windshields to reflect heat from sunlight penetrating the windshield. In particular, the clear films or coatings reflect infrared radiation from sunlight. In so doing, the clear films or coatings reduce the amount of infrared radiation entering an interior of the vehicle. As a result, during warm months, less energy is required to lower the interior temperature of the vehicle. To maximize efficiency of the clear films or coatings to reflect infrared radiation, the clear films or coatings are typically applied over a substantial part of the windshield, often spanning the entire field of view of the driver.
- Conventional window assemblies have attempted to utilize such clear films or coatings for antenna purposes. For example,
JPS63155805 EP0720249 discloses another transparent antenna, which in theFig. 6 embodiment is connected to two antenna elements, each via an electroconductive connector. However, conventional window assemblies utilizing the clear films or coatings lack robust and efficient antenna performance. Today's vehicles are subjected to ever-increasing electromagnetic interference. Yet, conventional window assemblies utilizing the clear films or coatings insufficiently control antenna radiation patterns and antenna impedance characteristics to combat such electromagnetic interference. Conventional window assemblies utilizing the clear films or coatings fail to sufficiently reduce a footprint of antenna elements utilized in conjunction with the clear film or coating. In utilizing such clear films or coatings for antenna purposes, many conventional window assemblies require costly modifications to the clear films or coatings, such as deletions, voids, or slits that are formed therein for antenna purposes. Moreover, conventional window assemblies lack the ability to further operate the clear films or coatings for defogging or a defrosting element purposes. - Therefore, there remains the opportunity to develop a window assembly that solves the aforementioned problems.
- A window assembly as claimed in Claim 1 is provided.
- The window assembly advantageously provides robust and efficient antenna performance. The area of the transparent layer provides transmission and/or reception of radio frequency signals. The first and second antenna segments beneficially play a role in transmission and/or reception of radio signals. The first and second antenna segments alter antenna radiation pattern and/or antenna impedance characteristics. Having the first antenna segment disposed in the outer region and spaced from and extending along the periphery advantageously maximizes and improves antenna impedance matching and radiation pattern altering. Moreover, by abutting the transparent layer, the second antenna segment advantageously provides a DC connection between the first antenna segment and the transparent layer. In providing the DC connection, the second antenna segment allows a footprint of the antenna element to be minimized. Moreover, the first and second antenna segments may be applied to the window assembly without any modification to the area of the transparent layer.
- Other advantages of the present invention will be readily appreciated, as the same becomes better understood by reference to the following detailed description when considered in connection with the accompanying drawings wherein:
-
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a vehicle having a window assembly with a transparent layer and an outer region adjacent the transparent layer with a plurality of antenna elements each having a first antenna segment and a second antenna segment extending from the first antenna segment, according to one embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 2 is a plan view of the window assembly ofFIG. 1 , according to one embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 3A is a cross-sectional partial view of the window assembly having the transparent layer, the antenna element, and a feeding element sandwiched between an interlayer and an interior substrate of the window assembly, according to one embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 3B is a cross-sectional partial view of the window assembly having the transparent layer, the antenna element, and the feeding element sandwiched between the interlayer and an exterior substrate of the window assembly, according to one embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 3C is a cross-sectional partial view of the window assembly having the transparent layer and the antenna element sandwiched between the exterior and interior substrates with the feeding element disposed on an outer surface of the interior substrate, according to another embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 4 is a plan view of the window assembly having antenna elements disposed at opposing sides of a periphery of the transparent layer and with the transparent layer being energizable as a defrosting or defogging element, according to one embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 5 is a plan view of the antenna element having the first and second antenna segments, not representing an embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 6 is a plan view of the antenna element having the first and second antenna segments and a third antenna segment extending from the first antenna segment, according to one embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 7 is a plan view of the antenna element having the first and second antenna segments, not representing an embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 8 is a plan view of the antenna element having the first and second antenna segments, not representing an embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 9 is a plan view of the antenna element having the first, second, and third antenna segments, according to another embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 10 is a plan view of the antenna element having the first, second, and third antenna segments, according to another embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 11 is a plan view of the antenna element having the first and second antenna segments, not representing an embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 12 is a plan view of the antenna element having the first, second, and third antenna segments, according to another embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 13 is a plan view of a single feeding element coupled to two antenna elements, according to one embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 14 is a plan view of the single feeding element coupled to two antenna elements, not representing an embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 15 is a plan view of the antenna element having the first and second antenna segments and a fourth antenna segment extending from the second antenna segment, not representing an embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 16 is a plan view of the antenna element having the first, second and fourth antenna segments, not representing an embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 17 is a plan view of the antenna element having the first, second and third antenna segments with the fourth antenna segment connecting to the second and third antenna segments, according to another embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 18 is a plan view of the antenna element having the first, second, third and fourth antenna segments with a fifth antenna segment extending from the third antenna segment, according to another embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 19 is a plan view of the window assembly including the antenna element and a plurality of parasitic elements, according to one embodiment of the present invention; -
FIG. 20 is a chart illustrating antenna performance of the window assembly, according to one embodiment of the present invention; and -
FIG. 21 is a chart illustrating antenna performance of the window assembly, according to one embodiment of the present invention. - Referring to the Figures, wherein like numerals indicate corresponding parts throughout the several views, a window assembly is shown generally at 10 in
FIG. 1 . In one embodiment, as shown inFIG. 1 , thewindow assembly 10 is for avehicle 12. Thewindow assembly 10 may be a front window (windshield) as illustrated inFIG. 1 . Alternatively, thewindow assembly 10 may be a rear window (backlite), a roof window (sunroof), or any other window of thevehicle 12. Typically, thevehicle 12 defines an aperture and thewindow assembly 10 closes the aperture. The aperture is conventionally defined by awindow frame 14 of thevehicle 12 which is typically electrically conductive. Thewindow assembly 10 of this invention may be for applications other than forvehicles 12. Specifically, thewindow assembly 10 may be for architectural applications such as homes, buildings, and the like. - As shown throughout the Figures, the
window assembly 10 includes anantenna element 16. In one embodiment, as shown inFIGS. 1 ,2 and4 , thewindow assembly 10 may also include a plurality ofantenna elements 16. As will be described in greater detail below, theantenna element 16 transmits and/or receives radio frequency signals. - As shown in
FIGS. 1 and2 , thewindow assembly 10 includes asubstrate 17. In one embodiment, as shown inFIGS. 3A-3C , thewindow assembly 10 includes anexterior substrate 18 and aninterior substrate 20 disposed adjacent theexterior substrate 18. Thesubstrate 17 may be defined as a single substrate. For example, thesubstrate 17 may be theexterior substrate 18 or theinterior substrate 20. Moreover, thesubstrate 17 may include a combination of the exterior andinterior substrates substrate 17 is described herein by the exterior andinterior substrates substrate 17 may have other configurations not specifically recited herein. - In
FIGS. 3A-3C , theexterior substrate 18 is disposed parallel to and spaced from theinterior substrate 20 such that thesubstrates exterior substrate 18 may directly abut theinterior substrate 20. - Typically, the exterior and
interior substrates interior substrates interior substrates - The exterior and
interior substrates window assembly 10. In one embodiment, the exterior andinterior substrates interior substrates interior substrates - In
FIGS. 3A-3C , each of the exterior andinterior substrates inner surface outer surface outer surface 18b of theexterior substrate 18 faces an exterior of thevehicle 12 and theouter surface 20b of theinterior substrate 20 faces an interior of thevehicle 12. Theinner surfaces interior substrates interior substrates window assembly 10. - As shown in
FIGS. 2 and3 , the exterior andinterior substrates peripheral edge 22 of thewindow assembly 10. Conventionally, theperipheral edge 22 of thewindow assembly 10 is shared by the exterior andinterior substrates FIGS. 3A-3C . Specifically, the exterior andinterior substrates substrate peripheral edge 22 when thesubstrates peripheral edge 22 has a generally trapezoidal configuration. However, theperipheral edge 22 may have any suitable shape, such as a rectangular configuration, and the like. - As shown throughout the Figures, a
transparent layer 24 is disposed on thesubstrate 17. InFIGS. 3A-3C , thetransparent layer 24 is disposed between the exterior andinterior substrates window assembly 10 may include thetransparent layer 24 sandwiched between the exterior andinterior substrates transparent layer 24 is abutting thesubstrates transparent layer 24 may be disposed on one of theinner surfaces interior substrates transparent layer 24 between the exterior andinterior substrates transparent layer 24 from direct contact with environmental factors which may damage thetransparent layer 24 such as snow, ice, and the like. Alternatively, thetransparent layer 24 may be disposed on theouter surface 18b of theexterior substrate 18 or theouter surface 20b of theinterior substrate 20. - Typically, the
transparent layer 24 is substantially transparent to light. Accordingly, a driver or occupant of thevehicle 12 may see through thewindow assembly 10 having thetransparent layer 24. With thetransparent layer 24 disposed within thewindow assembly 10, thewindow assembly 10 exhibits generally greater than sixty percent visible light transmission through thewindow assembly 10. Thetransparent layer 24 preferably reflects heat from sunlight penetrating thewindow assembly 10. In particular, thetransparent layer 24 reduces transmission of infrared radiation through thewindow assembly 10. - The
transparent layer 24 may include and/or be formed from one or more coatings and/or films of selected composition. The coatings and/or films forming thetransparent layer 24 may be single or multiple layers. Thetransparent layer 24 may be disposed in thewindow assembly 10 according to any suitable method, such as chemical vapor deposition, magnetron sputter vapor deposition, spray pyrolysis, and the like. - The
transparent layer 24 includes a metal compound such that thetransparent layer 24 is electrically conductive. As mentioned herein, the term "electrically conductive" refers generally to a material, such as a conductor, exhibiting electrical conductivity for effectively allowing flow of electric current through the material. Conversely, thetransparent layer 24 may have any suitable sheet resistance or surface resistance. In one example, thetransparent layer 24 has a sheet resistance in a range between 0.5-20 Ω/sq. In another example, thetransparent layer 24 has a sheet resistance in a range between 8-12 Ω/sq. - In one embodiment, the metal compound includes a metal oxide. The metal oxide may include a tin oxide, such as indium tin oxide, or the like. The
transparent layer 24 may include other metal oxides, including, but not limited to, silver oxide. Alternatively, the metal compound may include a metal nitride, and the like. The metal compound may also be doped with an additive, such as fluorine. Specifically, the additive may be included in the metal compound to optimize the light transmittance and electrical conductivity of thetransparent layer 24. - As shown throughout the Figures, the
transparent layer 24 defines anarea 26 spanning thewindow assembly 10. Thearea 26 may span a majority of thewindow assembly 10. Specifically, the majority of thewindow assembly 10 is defined generally as greater than fifty percent of thewindow assembly 10. More typically, the majority is greater than seventy-five percent of thewindow assembly 10. Thetransparent layer 24 may span the majority of thewindow assembly 10 for maximizing the reduction of transmission of infrared radiation through thewindow assembly 10. Alternatively, thearea 26 of thetransparent layer 24 may span a minority of thewindow assembly 10. For example, thearea 26 may span twenty percent of thewindow assembly 10 along the upper portion of thewindow assembly 10. - As shown in the Figures, the
area 26 of thetransparent layer 24 defines aperiphery 28. Theperiphery 28 of thetransparent layer 24 may define any suitable shape. In one embodiment, as shown inFIG. 2 , theperiphery 28 of thearea 26 of thetransparent layer 24 defines anupper edge 28a, an opposinglower edge 28b, and a pair of opposingside edges lower edges periphery 28 defines a shape geometrically similar to theperipheral edge 22 of thewindow assembly 10. However, theperiphery 28 may have any suitable shape for spanning thewindow assembly 10. - The
transparent layer 24 may be energizable as a defrosting or defogging element. For example, as shown inFIG. 4 , thewindow assembly 10 includes afirst bus bar 27 and asecond bus bar 29 opposite thefirst bus bar 27. In one embodiment, thefirst bus bar 27 is disposed along theupper edge 28a of theperiphery 28 of thetransparent layer 24 and thesecond bus bar 29 is disposed along thelower edge 28b of theperiphery 28 of thetransparent layer 24, or vice-versa. Alternatively, thefirst bus bar 27 may be disposed along theside edge 28c of theperiphery 28 of thetransparent layer 24 and thesecond bus bar 29 may be disposed along the opposingside edge 28d of theperiphery 28 of thetransparent layer 24, or vice-versa. The first and second bus bars 27, 29 are in direct electrical contact with thetransparent layer 24. In one instance, thefirst bus bar 27 is connected to a positive terminal of a battery of thevehicle 12 and thesecond bus bar 27 is connected to the vehicle body and ultimately to a ground terminal of a battery of thevehicle 12. Alternatively, thefirst bus bar 27 may be connected to ground and thesecond bus bar 27 may be connected to the positive terminal of a battery of thevehicle 12. Current passes through thetransparent layer 24 between the first and second bus bars 27, 29 to energize thetransparent layer 24. Ultimately, the electrical current passing through thetransparent layer 24 heats thetransparent layer 24 such that thetransparent layer 24 can effectively defrost or defog. Thetransparent layer 24 may be energizable as a defrosting or defogging element according to various other methods and configurations. - As shown in embodiments throughout the Figures, the
transparent layer 24 may occupy an entirety of thearea 26 such that thetransparent layer 24. As such, thearea 26 of thetransparent layer 24 is free of deletions, slits, or voids that are formed in thearea 26 for antenna purposes. Having deletions, slits, or voids in thearea 26 of thetransparent layer 24 for antenna purposes can be costly and can add complexity to the manufacturing process. In some embodiments, thewindow assembly 10 advantageously eliminates the need to modify thetransparent layer 24 with costly deletions, slits, or voids in thearea 26 of thetransparent layer 24 for antenna purposes. In other words, in certain embodiments, thewindow assembly 10 does not rely on deletions, slits, or voids in thearea 26 of thetransparent layer 24 to modify antenna performance. - A vehicle device, such as a mirror or rain sensor, may be attached or mounted to the
window assembly 10. Presence of thetransparent layer 24 at a location where the vehicle device attaches to thewindow assembly 10 may adversely affect performance of the vehicle device. Therefore, thetransparent layer 24 may include an opening, typically near theupper edge 28 of thetransparent layer 24 to accommodate attachment of the vehicle device on thewindow assembly 10, as shown inFIGS. 1 and2 . The opening for the vehicle device may extend into theouter region 30, as shown inFIG. 2 . In another embodiment, the opening for the vehicle device is surrounded by thetransparent layer 24 such that the opening is isolated from and does not extend into theouter region 30. Such an opening for the vehicle device is not regarded as an opening for antenna purposes, such as the above-described slits, voids, and openings, which are for antenna purposes. The opening for the vehicle device may have any suitable shape for accommodating the vehicle device. - As shown in the Figures, an
outer region 30 is defined on thewindow assembly 10. Theouter region 30 is devoid of thetransparent layer 24. Theouter region 30 is defined adjacent to thetransparent layer 24 and along theperiphery 28 of thearea 26 of thetransparent layer 24. In one embodiment, theouter region 30 is defined between theperiphery 28 of thetransparent layer 24 and theperipheral edge 22 of thewindow assembly 10. - As shown in
FIGS. 1 and2 , theouter region 30 may surround an entirety of theperiphery 28 of thearea 26 of thetransparent layer 24. Having theouter region 30 surround an entirety of theperiphery 28 of thetransparent layer 24 advantageously provides electrical disconnection between thetransparent layer 24 and thewindow frame 14. Alternatively, theouter region 30 may be defined on predetermined sections of thewindow assembly 10 such that theouter region 30 is not surrounding thetransparent layer 24 continuously alongperiphery 28 of thetransparent layer 24. Theouter region 30 is devoid of thetransparent layer 24 and is therefore, electrically non-conductive. - The
outer region 30 has a width defined generally by a distance between theperiphery 28 of thetransparent layer 24 and theperipheral edge 22 of thewindow assembly 10. In one embodiment, the width of theouter region 30 is greater than 0 mm and less than 200 mm. The width of theouter region 30 may vary depending upon how thewindow assembly 10 is fitted to thewindow frame 14. For example, the width of theouter region 30 may correspond to an overlap between thewindow frame 14 and thewindow assembly 10. Theouter region 30 may separate thetransparent layer 24 from thewindow frame 14 to avoid the possibility of an electrical path being established between thetransparent layer 24 and thewindow frame 14, which may adversely affect antenna reception and radiation patterns. Furthermore, theouter region 30 protects thetransparent layer 24 by separating thetransparent layer 24 from theperipheral edge 22 of thewindow assembly 10, which is subjected to environmental factors that may degrade the quality of thetransparent layer 24. - The
outer region 30 may be formed on thewindow assembly 10 according to any suitable technique known in the art. For instance, theinner surfaces interior substrates transparent layer 24 to provide a desired shape of theouter region 30. Alternatively, thetransparent layer 24 may be applied to thewindow assembly 10 such that thetransparent layer 24 is spaced from theperipheral edge 22 of thewindow assembly 10. Additionally, selected portions of thetransparent layer 24 may be removed or deleted to provide the desired shape of theouter region 30. Removal or deletion of selected portions of thetransparent layer 24 may be accomplished using lasers, abrasive tools, chemical removal, and the like. - Although not required, an
interlayer 32 may be disposed between theinner surfaces interior substrates FIGS. 3A-3C . Thewindow assembly 10 may include the exterior andinterior substrates transparent layer 24 and theinterlayer 32 sandwiched therebetween. Theinterlayer 32 bonds the exterior andinterior substrates window assembly 10 from shattering upon impact. Theinterlayer 32 is substantially transparent to light and typically includes a polymer or thermoplastic resin, such as polyvinyl butyral (PVB). Other suitable materials for implementing theinterlayer 32 may be used. In one embodiment, theinterlayer 32 has a thickness of between 0.5 mm to 1 mm. - The
transparent layer 24 may be disposed adjacent theinterlayer 32. In one embodiment, thetransparent layer 24 is disposed between theinterlayer 32 and theinner surface 18a of theexterior substrate 18, as shown inFIG. 3B . Alternatively, as shown inFIGS. 3A and 3C , thetransparent layer 24 is disposed between theinterlayer 32 and theinner surface 20a of theinterior substrate 20. InFIGS. 3A-3C , thetransparent layer 24 andinterlayer 32 are sandwiched between the exterior andinterior substrates interlayer 32 and thetransparent layer 24 are abutting theinner surfaces interior substrates - As referenced above, the
window assembly 10 includes theantenna element 16. As shown throughout the Figures, theantenna element 16 is disposed on thesubstrate 17. In one embodiment, theantenna element 16 is disposed between the exterior andinterior substrates antenna element 16 is disposed between theinterlayer 32 and theinner surface 18a of theexterior substrate 18, as shown inFIG. 3B . Alternatively, as shown inFIGS. 3A and 3C , theantenna element 16 is disposed between theinterlayer 32 and theinner surface 20a of theinterior substrate 20. Between the exterior andinterior substrates antenna element 16 may be disposed coplanar with thetransparent layer 24. - Additionally, the
antenna element 16 may be disposed on theouter surface 18b of theexterior substrate 18 or theouter surface 20b of theinterior substrate 20. - The
antenna element 16 may be disposed non-coplanar with thetransparent layer 24. In one example, as shown inFIGS. 3A-3C , theantenna element 16 is non-coplanar with thetransparent layer 24 in thearea 26 of thetransparent layer 24 but coplanar with thetransparent layer 24 in theouter region 30. - As shown in the Figures, the
antenna element 16 is disposed within theperipheral edge 22 of thewindow assembly 10 such thatantenna element 16 does not physically extend beyond theperipheral edge 22 of thewindow assembly 10. - The
antenna element 16 is electrically conductive. Theantenna element 16 may be formed of any suitable conductor. Theantenna element 16 may be applied to thewindow assembly 10 according to any suitable method, such as printing, firing, adhesion and the like. In one example, theantenna element 16 comprises an electrically conductive paste, such as a silver paste. In another example, theantenna element 16 comprises a conductive adhesive, such as a copper tape. In yet another example, theantenna element 16 comprises metal wire. Theantenna element 16 generally includes a substantially flat configuration. As such, theantenna element 16 may be suitably disposed between the exterior andinterior substrates antenna element 16 is substantially opaque to light such that light cannot pass through theantenna element 16. Moreover, the first andsecond antenna segments window assembly 10 without any modification to thearea 28 of thetransparent layer 24. - As shown throughout the Figures, the
antenna element 16 includes afirst antenna segment 40. Thefirst antenna segment 40 is elongated. Thefirst antenna segment 40 has afirst end 42 and asecond end 44 opposite thefirst end 42. In one embodiment, thefirst antenna segment 40 has a rectangular configuration with a pair of short sides and a pair of connecting elongated sides. In such embodiments, the first and second ends 42, 44 of thefirst antenna segment 40 are generally defined at the short sides of the rectangular configuration. - As shown in
FIGS. 5 , thefirst antenna segment 40 may also have an area A1 defined by a length "L1" and a width "W1." In one embodiment, the width W1 of thefirst antenna segment 40 is substantially consistent along the length L1 of thefirst antenna segment 40. Alternatively, the width W1 of thefirst antenna segment 40 may vary along the length L1 of thefirst antenna segment 50. - The length L1 of the
first antenna segment 40 may be any suitable dimension. In one embodiment, the length L1 of thefirst antenna segment 40 is in a range between 5-25 cm. In another embodiment, the length L1 of thefirst antenna segment 40 is in a range between 10-15 cm. In one specific embodiment the length L1 of thefirst antenna segment 40 is 13 cm or 25 cm. - Additionally, the Width W1 of the
first antenna segment 40 may be any suitable dimension. In one embodiment, the width W1 of thefirst antenna segment 40 is in a range between 0.2-1 cm. In another embodiment, the width W1 of thefirst antenna segment 40 is approximately 0.5 cm. Thefirst antenna segment 40 may have other configurations and dimensions without departing from the scope of the invention. - The
first antenna segment 40 is disposed in theouter region 30. In theouter region 30, thefirst antenna segment 40 is spaced from theperiphery 28 of thetransparent layer 24. In other words, thefirst antenna segment 40 does not directly contact thetransparent layer 24. - The
first antenna segment 40 extends along theperiphery 28 of thetransparent layer 24. Having thefirst antenna segment 40 extend along theperiphery 28 is important for improving antenna impedance matching and radiation pattern altering, as will be described in greater detail below. In one embodiment, as shown throughout the Figures, thefirst antenna segment 40 extends substantially parallel to theperiphery 28. In instances where thefirst antenna segment 40 has a rectangular configuration, the elongated side of thefirst antenna segment 40 may extend parallel to theperiphery 28. Having thefirst antenna segment 40 extend substantially parallel to theperiphery 28 maximizes antenna impedance matching and radiation pattern altering effects by thefirst antenna segment 40. Alternatively, thefirst antenna segment 40 extends along theperiphery 28 at a predetermined angle. The predetermined angle is defined generally between theperiphery 28 and an edge of thefirst antenna segment 40 adjacent theperiphery 28. In one instance, the predetermined angle is approximately 15 degrees. In some instances, thefirst end 42 of thefirst antenna segment 40 may be disposed nearer to theperiphery 28 than thesecond end 44 of thefirst antenna segment 40. Alternatively, thefirst end 42 of thefirst antenna segment 40 may be disposed further from theperiphery 28 than thesecond end 44 of thefirst antenna segment 40. - In another embodiment, as shown in
FIGS. 11 and 12 , thefirst antenna segment 40 extends partially along one of the side edges 28c, 28d of theperiphery 28 and partially along one of the upper andlower edges periphery 28. For example, theperiphery 28 of thetransparent layer 24 defines a corner where one of the side edges 28c, 28d of theperiphery 28 connects to one of the upper andlower edges periphery 28. Thefirst antenna segment 40 extends along the corner of theperiphery 28. In such embodiments, thefirst antenna segment 40 may bend or curve in theouter region 30 such that thefirst antenna segment 40 maintains position along theperiphery 28 of thetransparent layer 24. - The
antenna element 16 includes asecond antenna segment 50. Thesecond antenna segment 50 extends from thefirst antenna segment 40 toward thetransparent layer 24. In doing so, thesecond antenna segment 50 crosses theperiphery 28 of thetransparent layer 24. In one embodiment, thesecond antenna segment 50 is disposed partially in theouter region 30 and disposed partially in thearea 26 of thetransparent layer 24. Any suitable portion of thesecond antenna segment 50 may be disposed in thetransparent layer 24 or theouter region 30. For instance, one portion of thesecond antenna segment 50 representing eighty percent of theantenna element 16 may be disposed theouter region 30 while the remaining portion representing twenty percent ofsecond antenna segment 50 may be disposed in thetransparent layer 24, or vice-versa. - As shown in
FIGS. 5-18 , thesecond antenna segment 50 has afirst end 52 and asecond end 54 opposite thefirst end 52. Thefirst end 52 of thesecond antenna segment 50 connects to thefirst antenna segment 40. - The
second antenna segment 50 abuts and is in direct electrical contact with thetransparent layer 24. Thesecond antenna segment 50 is directly adjacent to thetransparent layer 24 such that thesecond antenna segment 50 and thetransparent layer 24 are in a directly contacting state. At least a portion of thesecond antenna segment 50 is disposed directly on thetransparent layer 24. In one instance, thesecond end 54 of thesecond antenna segment 50 connects to thetransparent layer 24. - The
second antenna segment 50 may abut thetransparent layer 24 according to various configurations. In one embodiment, as shown inFIGS. 3A-3C , thesecond antenna segment 50 may be disposed directly on thetransparent layer 24. InFIGS. 3A- 3C , thesecond antenna segment 50 is disposed non-coplanar with thetransparent layer 24. Alternatively, thesecond antenna segment 50 may be disposed coplanar with thetransparent layer 24. - By abutting the
transparent layer 24, thesecond antenna segment 50 advantageously provides a DC connection between thefirst antenna segment 40 and thetransparent layer 24. In providing the DC connection, thesecond antenna segment 50 allows a footprint of theantenna element 16 to be substantially minimized. Specifically, the areas A1/A2 of the first andsecond antenna segments - In one embodiment, as shown in the Figures, the
second antenna segment 50 extends substantially perpendicular from thefirst antenna segment 40. InFIGS. 5-7 ,10 ,14 ,16-18 , thesecond antenna segment 50 extends from thefirst antenna segment 40 between the first and second ends 42, 44 of thefirst antenna segment 40. In such instances, thesecond antenna segment 50 is spaced from each one of the first and second ends 42, 44 of thefirst antenna segment 50. InFIGS. 4 ,8 ,11-13 , and15 thesecond antenna segment 50 extends from thefirst antenna segment 40 at one of the first and second ends 42, 44 of thefirst antenna segment 50. In such instances, the first andsecond elements - In one embodiment, the
second antenna segment 50 has a rectangular configuration with a pair of short sides and a pair of connecting elongated sides. In such embodiments, the first and second ends 52, 54 of thesecond antenna segment 50 are generally defined at the short sides of the rectangular configuration. Thesecond antenna segment 50 may have other configurations, such as a square configuration. - As shown in
FIG. 5 , thesecond antenna segment 50 may also define an area A2 having a length "L2" and a width "W2." In one embodiment, the width W2 of thesecond antenna segment 50 is substantially consistent along the length L2 of thesecond antenna segment 50. Alternatively, the width W2 of thesecond antenna segment 50 may vary along the length L2 of thesecond antenna segment 50. - The length L2 of the
second antenna segment 50 may be any suitable dimension. In one embodiment, the length L2 of thesecond antenna segment 50 is in a range between 0.5-10 cm. In another embodiment, the length L2 of thesecond antenna segment 50 is approximately 1-2 cm. - The width W2 of the
second antenna segment 50 may be any suitable dimension. In one embodiment, the width W2 of thesecond antenna segment 50 is in a range between 0.2-1 cm. In another embodiment, the width W2 of thesecond antenna segment 50 is approximately 0.5 cm. Thesecond antenna segment 50 may have other configurations without departing from the scope of the invention. - The first and
second antenna segments first antenna segment 40 is longer than the length L2 of thesecond antenna segment 50. Alternatively, the length L1 of thefirst antenna segment 40 may be shorter than the length L2 of thesecond antenna segment 50. Moreover, the length L1 of thefirst antenna segment 40 may be equal to the length L2 of thesecond antenna segment 50. In another example, the width W1 of thefirst antenna segment 40 is wider than the width W2 of thesecond antenna segment 50. Alternatively, the width W1 of thefirst antenna segment 40 is narrower than the width W2 of thesecond antenna segment 50. Furthermore, the width W1 of thefirst antenna segment 40 may be equal to the width W2 of thesecond antenna segment 50. In other embodiments, the area A1 of thefirst antenna segment 40 may be greater than the area A2 of thesecond antenna segment 50. The area A1 of thefirst antenna segment 40 may be less than the area A2 of thesecond antenna segment 50. Moreover, the area A1 of thefirst antenna segment 40 may be equal to the area A2 of thesecond antenna segment 50. - In one embodiment, the first and
second antenna segments second antenna segment 50 extends integrally from thefirst antenna segment 40. Alternatively, the first andsecond antenna segments second antenna segment 50 extends non-integrally from thefirst antenna segment 40. - The first and
second antenna segments second antenna segments window assembly 10. For example, the first andsecond antenna segments second antenna segments first antenna segment 40 has an emphasized role in operating to alter radiation patterns while thesecond antenna segment 50 has an emphasized role in providing impedance matching, or vice-versa. - The first and
second antenna segments first antenna segment 40, thesecond antenna 50, and thetransparent layer 24 to an impedance of a cable or circuit. The cable, for example, may be a cable, such as a coaxial cable, that is connected to a feeding element that energizes thefirst antenna segment 40, thesecond antenna 50, and thetransparent layer 24, as will be described below. The circuit, for example, may be an amplifier or other circuits that are connected to thefirst antenna segment 40, thesecond antenna 50, and thetransparent layer 24 through either a cable or lead wire. - The first and
second antenna segments first antenna segment 40, thesecond antenna 50, and/or thetransparent layer 24. More specifically, the first and/orsecond antenna segments second antenna segments second antenna segments second antenna segments - At higher frequencies, the
first antenna segment 40 has an emphasized role in radiation pattern alternation. At lower frequencies, thefirst antenna segment 40 has an emphasized role in impedance matching. - Antenna performance is further fine-tuned based upon the strategic and dimensioning of the first and
second antenna segments transparent layer 24 and each other. For instance, the length L1/L2, width W1/W2, and/or area A1/A2 of the first andsecond antenna segments FIG. 5 , other examples of strategic positing and dimensioning of the first andsecond antenna segments first antenna segment 40 and theperiphery 28 of thetransparent layer 24, (ii) a distance "b" between thesecond antenna segment 50 and the first and/or second ends 42, 44 of thefirst antenna segment 40, (iii) a distance "c" between thefirst antenna segment 40 and theperipheral edge 22 of thewindow assembly 10, and (iv) a distance "d" between thesecond end 54 of thesecond antenna segment 50 and theperiphery 28 of thetransparent layer 24. - The first and
second antenna segments transparent layer 24 each have an electrical conductivity. In one embodiment, the electrical conductivity of each of the first andsecond antenna segments transparent layer 24. By having the electrical conductivity configured as such, more electrical current concentrates in the first andsecond antenna segments transparent layer 24. This allows for greater impact on impedance matching and radiation pattern alteration while allowing a reduction in the footprint of theantenna element 16. In another embodiment, the electrical conductivity of one of the first andsecond antenna segments second antenna segments - As shown throughout the Figures, the
window assembly 10 includes afeeding element 60. The feedingelement 60 is coupled to theantenna element 16. As shown in the Figures, the feedingelement 60 is coupled to thefirst antenna segment 40. InFIGS. 5 ,9-11 , and15-18 thefeeding element 60 is coupled between the first and second ends 42, 44 of thefirst antenna segment 40. In such configurations, the feedingelement 60 is spaced from each one of the first and second ends 42, 44 of thefirst antenna segment 40. Alternatively, as shown inFIGS. 6-8 , and12-14 thefeeding element 60 is coupled to thefirst antenna segment 40 at one of the first and second ends 42, 44 of thefirst antenna segment 40. In other embodiments, the feedingelement 60 couples to thesecond antenna segment 50. The feedingelement 60 may be positioned with respect to theantenna element 16 according to various other configurations. - The feeding
element 60 is disposed on thewindow assembly 10 according to various configurations. As shown in the Figures, the feedingelement 60 is disposed in theouter region 60. In such instances, the feedingelement 60 is spaced from thetransparent layer 24 such that feedingelement 60 does not directly abut thetransparent layer 24. The feedingelement 60 may be disposed entirely within theouter region 30. Alternatively, part of thefeeding element 60 may be disposed in theouter region 30. Furthermore, the feedingelement 60 may be disposed beyond theouter region 30. For instance, the feedingelement 60 may partially extend beyond theperipheral edge 22 of thewindow assembly 10, as shown inFIG. 2 . This allows the feedingelement 60 to be easily connected to corresponding electrical systems or thevehicle 12 during manufacturing. Having theantenna element 16 disposed along theperiphery 28 of thetransparent layer 24 allows for simplified feeding arrangements because thefeeding element 60 generally must connect toantenna element 16 from theperipheral edge 22 of thewindow assembly 10. - The feeding
element 60 may be disposed on thesubstrate 17. The feedingelement 60 may be disposed adjacent and in planar relationship to theantenna element 16 and thetransparent layer 24. The feedingelement 60 may be disposed coplanar or non-coplanar with respect to theantenna element 16. As shown inFIG. 3A , the feedingelement 60 is disposed between theinterlayer 32 and theinner surface 20a of theinterior substrate 20. Alternatively, as shown inFIG. 3B , the feedingelement 60 is disposed between theinterlayer 32 and theinner surface 18a of theexterior substrate 18. The feedingelement 60 may also be disposed on theouter surface interior substrates FIG. 3C . - According to one embodiment, as shown in
FIGS. 3A and 3B , the feedingelement 60 is abutting and in direct electrical connection with theantenna element 16. The feedingelement 60 passes electrical current to theantenna element 16 directly through an electrically conductive material, such as a feeding strip or wire, physically attached to theantenna element 16. For example, the feedingelement 60 may be directly wired or soldered to theantenna element 16. In one embodiment, the feedingelement 60 is non-coplanar with theantenna element 16 and directly connected atop thefirst antenna segment 40. In another embodiment, the feedingelement 60 coplanar with theantenna element 16 and directly connected to one of the first and second ends 42, 44 of thefirst antenna segment 40. The feedingelement 60 and theantenna element 16 may be abutting and in direct electrical connection on thewindow assembly 10 according to several other configurations with respect to thetransparent layer 24 and theinterlayer 32 not specifically illustrated throughout the Figures. - Alternatively, as shown in
FIG. 3C , the feedingelement 60 may be spaced from and capacitively coupled to theantenna element 16. In such instances, the feedingelement 60 induces electrical current to theantenna element 16 through the air or a dielectric material, such as the exterior orinterior substrates interlayer 32. When capacitively coupled, the feedingelement 60 is neither hardwired nor in direct contact with theantenna element 16 and is generally disposed non-coplanar with theantenna element 16. In one embodiment, as shown inFIG. 3C , the feedingelement 60 is disposed on theouter surface 20b of theinterior substrate 20 and capacitively coupled to theantenna element 16 disposed between theinterlayer 32 and theinner surface 20a of theinterior substrate 20. The feedingelement 60 may be spaced from and capacitively coupled to theantenna element 16 on thewindow assembly 10 according to several other embodiments with respect to thetransparent layer 24 and theinterlayer 32 which are not specifically illustrated throughout the Figures. - The feeding
element 60 is configured to energize the first andsecond antenna segments transparent layer 24 such that first andsecond antenna segments transparent layer 24 collectively transmit and/or receive radio frequency signals. In one embodiment, the feedingelement 60 jointly energizes theantenna element 16 and thetransparent layer 24. The feedingelement 60 is electrically coupled to theantenna element 16 and thetransparent layer 24 such that theantenna element 16 and thetransparent layer 24 operate as active antenna elements for excitation or reception of radio frequency waves. - With respect to the
feeding element 60, the term "energize" is understood to describe an electrical relationship between the feedingelement 60 and theantenna element 16 andtransparent layer 24 whereby the feedingelement 60 excites theantenna element 16 andtransparent layer 24 for transmission of radio waves, and is electrically coupled to theantenna element 16 andtransparent layer 24 for reception of impinging radio waves. - The feeding
element 60 may include any suitable material for energizing theantenna element 16. As shown throughout the Figures, the feedingelement 60 may couple to theantenna element 16 at a feed point, identified as an "X" throughout the Figures. The feed point may be disposed at various locations with respect to thefeeding element 60. In one embodiment, the feedingelement 60 includes a coaxial line having a center conductor coupled to theantenna element 16 at the feed point "X" and a ground conductor grounded to thewindow frame 14. In other embodiments, the feedingelement 60 includes a feeding strip, a feeding wire, or a combination of both. Also, the feedingelement 60 may be a balanced or unbalanced line. For example, the feedingelement 60 may be an unbalanced coaxial cable, microstrip, or single wire line. Furthermore, the feedingelement 60 may include any suitable feeding network for providing phase shifting to the radio frequency signal transmitted or received by theantenna element 16. In one embodiment, the feedingelement 60 couples to theantenna element 16 at a plurality of feed points, as shown inFIG. 9 . - In one embodiment, the first and
second antenna segments transparent layer 24 collectively transmit and/or receive linearly polarized radio frequency signals. In one example, the first andsecond antenna segments transparent layer 24 may collectively transmit and/or receive radio frequency signals for at least one of Remote Keyless Entry (RKE), Digital Audio Broadcasting (DAB), FM, cellular and TV applications. - Antenna performance is further fine-tuned based upon the strategic dimensioning of the
feeding element 60 and positioning of such in relation to the first andsecond antenna segments transparent layer 24. As shown inFIG. 5 , one example of such strategic positing and dimensioning of thefeeding element 60 includes a distance "e" between the feed point "X" of thefeeding element 60 and the first and/or second ends 42, 44 of thefirst antenna segment 40. - In one embodiment, the feeding
element 60 and theantenna element 16 may be integrated into a single component. The single component including thefeeding element 60 and theantenna element 16 may be readily removed and attached to thewindow assembly 10. In one example, the single component includes conductors and/or traces embedded within an electrically isolating member. The single component may have a substantially flat configuration such that the single component may be easily sandwiched between the interior andexterior substrates vehicle 12, and the like. - The
outer region 30 may have any suitable dimensions, configuration, or shape for accommodating theantenna element 16 and/or feedingelement 60. For instance, theouter region 30 may have a rectangular configuration, a curved configuration, or the like. More specifically,outer region 30 may follow a substantially linear path, curved path, or the like. Theouter region 30 may be sized such that theantenna element 16 and/or thefeeding element 60 substantially occupy theouter region 30. In other words, theouter region 30 may be sized to the extent necessary to effectively accommodate theantenna element 16 and/or feedingelement 60. As such, thearea 26 of thetransparent layer 24 is maximized for its other functions, such as an antenna radiating element or an element for reflecting infrared radiation penetrating thewindow assembly 10. Alternatively, theantenna element 16 and/or feedingelement 60 may occupy only a minority of theouter region 30. Disposal of theantenna element 16 and/or feedingelement 60 in theouter region 30 provides an unobstructed field of view for the driver of thevehicle 12. - In one embodiment, the
antenna element 16 and thefeeding element 60 are positioned such that theantenna element 16 and thefeeding element 60 cause minimal obstruction to the vision of an occupant of thevehicle 12. As mentioned above, in many embodiments, theantenna element 16 and thefeeding element 60 are disposed substantially in theouter region 30 such that theantenna element 16 and thefeeding element 60 do not obstruct the vision of the occupant. Moreover, as shown throughout the Figures, thewindow assembly 10 may include anopaque layer 62 that is applied to one of the interior andexterior substrates opaque layer 62 conceals theantenna element 16 and thefeeding element 60 for an aesthetically appealing configuration. As shown in the Figures, theopaque layer 62 extends from theperipheral edge 22 of thewindow assembly 10 toward thetransparent layer 24. Specifically, theopaque layer 62 extends past theperiphery 28 of thetransparent layer 24. By doing so, theopaque layer 62 conceals thesecond antenna segment 50 that extends into thetransparent layer 24 thereby completely concealing theantenna element 16. In one embodiment, theopaque layer 62 is formed of aceramic print 62. - The
window assembly 10 may include a plurality ofantenna elements 16 and/or a plurality of feedingelements 60. In one embodiment, as shown inFIGS. 7-12 , asingle feeding element 60 is coupled to asingle antenna element 16. Such configurations may be defined as a single-port configuration. In one embodiment, as shown inFIG. 9 , thesingle feeding element 60 may connect to theantenna element 16 at a plurality of feed points. In such configurations, the feedingelement 60 may include aconductor 64 coupled to each feed point. Theconductors 64 may be connected, or spliced together, such that only asingle conductor 64 is required to enter thefeeding element 60 for energizing theantenna element 16 at the plurality of feed points. - In another embodiment, as shown in
FIGS. 13 and 14 , asingle feeding element 60 is coupled to a plurality ofantenna elements 16. Such configurations may be defined as a multi-port configuration. InFIGS. 13 and 14 , thewindow assembly 10 includes twoantenna elements 16 and asingle feeding element 60 coupled to both of theantenna elements 16. InFIGS. 13 and 14 , the feedingelement 60 connects to each of theantenna elements 16 at a separate feed point. In such configurations, thesingle feeding element 60 may includeseparate conductors 64 each coupled to eachseparate antenna element 16. In such instances, the feedingelement 60 effectively operates as twoseparate feeding elements 60 consolidated into a single feeding unit. In one example, the feedingelement 60 couples to one of the first and second ends 42, 44 of thefirst antenna segment 40 of each one of the twoantenna elements 16. The feedingelement 60 may couple to various other parts of the antenna element(s) 16. - As shown in
FIGS. 4 ,6 ,9, 10, 12 ,17 and18 , theantenna element 16 may have athird antenna segment 70. Thethird antenna segment 70 extends from thefirst antenna segment 40 to thetransparent layer 24. Thethird antenna segment 70 crosses theperiphery 28 of thetransparent layer 24. Thethird antenna segment 70 abuts and is in direct electrical contact with thetransparent layer 24. - The addition of the
third antenna segment 70 generally provides greater flexibility to improve impedance of thewindow assembly 10 as compared with simpler configurations. As such, thewindow assembly 10 including thethird antenna segment 70 generally exhibits an even wider transmission or reception bandwidth as compared with thewindow assembly 10 having theantenna element 16 having only the first andsecond segment - In one example, the
third antenna segment 70 extends perpendicularly from thefirst antenna segment 40 to thetransparent layer 24. InFIGS. 6 ,10 ,12 ,17 and18 , thethird antenna segment 70 extends from thefirst antenna segment 40 between the first and second ends 42, 44 of thefirst antenna segment 40. In such configurations, thethird antenna segment 70 is spaced from each one of the first and second ends 42, 44 of thefirst antenna segment 40. InFIGS. 4 and9 , thethird antenna segment 70 extends from thefirst antenna segment 40 at one of the first and second ends 42, 44 of thefirst antenna segment 40. In yet another embodiment, inFIGS. 4 and9 , thesecond antenna segment 50 extends from thefirst antenna segment 40 at one of the first and second ends 42, 44 of thefirst antenna segment 40 and thethird antenna segment 70 extends from thefirst antenna segment 40 at the other one of the first and second ends 42, 44 of thefirst antenna segment 40. In such configurations, the first, second, andthird antenna segments third antenna segment 70 may extend according to other configurations without departing form the scope of the invention. - Many of the physical, mechanical, positional, dimensional, and functional properties and advantages of the
second antenna segment 50 may correspond to thethird antenna segment 50. Thus, for simplicity in description, those properties of thesecond antenna segment 50 described herein may be referenced to describe thethird antenna segment 70. Of course, it is to be appreciated that the second andthird antenna segments 50 are not necessarily identical and may exhibit different properties and provide unique advantages. - As shown in
FIGS. 15-18 , theantenna element 16 may have afourth antenna segment 80. Thefourth antenna segment 80 extends from thesecond antenna segment 50. Thefourth antenna segment 80 abuts and is in direct electrical connection with thetransparent layer 24. As shown inFIG. 16 , thefourth antenna segment 80 includes an area "A4" having a length "L4" and a width "W4." The length L4 and width W4 of thefourth antenna segment 80 may be any suitable dimensions. In one embodiment, the length L4 of thefourth antenna segment 80 is in a range between 5-25 cm. In other embodiments, the length L4 of thefourth antenna segment 80 is approximately 15 cm. In one embodiment, the width W4 of thefourth antenna segment 40 is in a range between 0.2-1 cm. In another embodiment, the width W4 of thefourth antenna segment 40 is approximately 0.5 cm. - The addition of the
fourth antenna segment 80 generally provides greater flexibility to improve impedance of thewindow assembly 10 as compared with simpler configurations. As such, thewindow assembly 10 including thefourth antenna segment 80 generally exhibits an even wider transmission or reception bandwidth as compared with thewindow assembly 10 having theantenna element 16 having only the first andsecond antenna segments third antenna segments - In one embodiment, as shown in
FIG. 16-18 , thefourth antenna segment 80 is disposed entirely within theperiphery 28 of thetransparent layer 24. In another embodiment, as shown inFIG. 15 , thefourth antenna segment 80 is disposed partially within theperiphery 28 of thetransparent layer 24 and partially in theouter region 30. - In
FIGS. 15-18 , thefourth antenna segment 80 extends perpendicular to thesecond antenna segment 50 and parallel to thefirst antenna segment 40. InFIG. 17 , thefourth antenna segment 80 connects to both thesecond antenna segment 50 and thethird antenna segment 70. InFIG. 17 , thefourth antenna segment 80 extends perpendicularly from both thesecond antenna segment 50 and thethird antenna segment 70. - The
fourth antenna segment 80 includes afirst end 82 and asecond end 84 opposite thefirst end 82. In one embodiment, as shown inFIGS. 16-18 second antenna segment 50 connects to thefourth antenna segment 80 between the first and second ends 82, 84 of thefourth antenna segment 80. In such configurations, thesecond antenna segment 50 is spaced from each one of the first and second ends 82, 84 of thefourth antenna segment 80. In another embodiment, as shown inFIG. 15 , thesecond antenna segment 50 connects to thefourth antenna segment 80 at one of the first and second ends 82, 84 of thefourth antenna segment 80. In such instances thesecond antenna segment 50 and thefourth antenna segment 80 have an L-shaped configuration. In yet another embodiment, as shown inFIG. 17 , the second andthird antenna segments fourth antenna segment 80 between the first and second ends 82, 84 of thefourth antenna segment 80 such that the each one of the second andthird antenna segments fourth antenna segment 80. Thefourth antenna segment 80 may extend according to other configurations without departing form the scope of the invention. - Antenna performance is further fine-tuned based upon the strategic dimensioning of the
fourth antenna segment 80 and positioning of such in relation to thetransparent layer 24other antenna segments FIG. 16 , the length L4, width W4, and/or area A4 of thefourth antenna segment 80 may have a significant impact on antenna performance. As shown inFIG. 16 , other examples of strategic positing and dimensioning of thefourth antenna segment 80 include (i) a distance "g" between thesecond antenna segment 50 and the first and/or second ends 82, 84 of thefourth antenna segment 80, (ii) a distance "h" between thefirst antenna segment 40 and thefourth antenna segment 80, and (iii) a distance "j" between one of the first and second ends 42, 44 of thefirst antenna segment 40 and a corresponding one of the first and second ends 82, 84 of thefourth antenna segment 80. Moreover, the length L4 of thefourth antenna segment 80 may be related to the length L1 of thefirst antenna segment 40 according to a predetermined ratio or fraction. For example, L1 may be twice as long as L4 in one embodiment. Alternatively, L4 may be one-fourth as long as L1 in another embodiment. - Many of the physical, mechanical, positional, dimensional, and functional properties of the
first antenna segment 40 may be applied to thefourth antenna segment 80. Thus, for simplicity in description, those properties of thefirst antenna segment 40 described herein may be referenced to describe thefourth antenna segment 80. Of course, it is to be appreciated that thefourth antenna segment 80 is not necessarily identical to thefirst antenna segment 40 and each may exhibit different properties and provide unique advantages. - As shown in
FIG. 18 theantenna element 16 may have afifth antenna segment 90. Thefifth antenna segment 90 extends from thethird antenna segment 70. Thefifth antenna segment 90 is spaced from theforth antenna segment 80. Thefifth antenna segment 90 abuts and is in direct electrical connection with thetransparent layer 24. Thefifth antenna segment 90 includes afirst end 92 and asecond end 94 opposite thefirst end 92. - The addition of the
fifth antenna segment 90 generally provides greater flexibility to improve impedance of thewindow assembly 10 as compared with simpler configurations. As such, thewindow assembly 10 including thefifth antenna segment 90 generally exhibits an even wider transmission or reception bandwidth as compared with thewindow assembly 10 having theantenna element 16 having only the first, second, third, and/orfourth antenna segments - Many of the physical, mechanical, positional, dimensional, and functional properties of the
fourth antenna segment 80 may be applied to thefifth antenna segment 90. Thus, for simplicity in description, those properties of thefourth antenna segment 80 described herein may be referenced to describe thefifth antenna segment 90. Of course, it is to be appreciated that thefourth antenna segment 80 is not necessarily identical to thefifth antenna segment 90 as the fourth andfifth antenna segments - In one embodiment, as shown in
FIG. 1 , thewindow assembly 10 includes twoantenna elements 16. Asignal processor 100 is connected to bothantenna elements 16. Thesignal processor 100 is configured to select and/or combine radio frequency signals transmittable and/or receivable by theantenna elements 16. By doing so, the twoantenna elements 16 operate in diversity. By operating in diversity, theantenna elements 16 transmit and/or receive radio frequency signals in multiple directions within a field of reception to minimize interference and temporary fading of the signal. In one example, the twoantenna elements 16 in conjunction with thetransparent layer 24 operate to transmit radio signals for TV applications. - In another embodiment, as shown in
FIG. 2 , thewindow assembly 10 includes a first, second, andthird antenna element first edge 28c of theperiphery 28 and a fourth, fifth, andsixth antenna element second edge 28d of theperiphery 28. The first, second, third, fourth, fifth, andsixth antenna elements first antenna segment 40 and asecond antenna segment 50. The first andfourth antenna elements third antenna segment 70. Thefirst antenna segment 40 of each of theantenna elements outer region 30 and spaced from theperiphery 28. Thefirst antenna segment 40 of each of theantenna elements periphery 28 and is spaced from theperiphery 28. Thesecond antenna segment 50 of each of theantenna elements first antenna segment 40 of each of theantenna elements transparent layer 24 such that each of thesecond antenna segments 50 crosses theperiphery 28 of thetransparent layer 24. Each of thesecond antenna segments 50 abuts and is in direct electrical contact with thetransparent layer 24. Thethird antenna segment 70 of each of the first andfourth antenna elements second antenna segment 50 of each of the first andfourth antenna elements first antenna segment 40 of each of the first andfourth antenna elements transparent layer 24. Each of thethird antenna segments 70 crosses theperiphery 28 of thetransparent layer 24 and abuts and is in direct electrical contact with thetransparent layer 24. A plurality of feedingelements 60 are provided. Each of saidantenna elements feeding elements 60 of the plurality. - In one modification of the embodiment in
FIG. 2 , afirst feeding element 60a is coupled to thefirst antenna element 16a for energizing thefirst antenna element 16a and thetransparent layer 24. Asecond feeding element 60b is coupled to both the second andthird antenna elements second antenna elements transparent layer 24. Athird feeding element 60c is coupled to thefourth antenna element 16d for energizing thefourth antenna element 16d and thetransparent layer 24. Afourth feeding element 60d is coupled to the fifth andsixth antenna elements sixth antenna elements transparent layer 24. - In another modification of the embodiment of
FIG. 2 , thefirst antenna element 16a transmits and/or receives radio signals for TV applications, thesecond antenna element 16b transmits and/or receives radio signals for Remote Keyless Entry applications, thesecond antenna element 16c transmits and/or receives radio signals for FM or Digital Audio Broadcasting applications, thefourth antenna element 16d transmits and/or receives radio signals for TV applications, thefifth antenna element 16e transmits and/or receives radio signals for TV applications, thesixth antenna element 16e transmits and/or receives radio signals for FM or Digital Audio Broadcasting applications. - In yet another embodiment, as shown in
FIG. 4 , thetransparent layer 24 is energizable as the defrosting or defogging element. Thewindow assembly 10 includes afirst antenna element 16a and asecond antenna element 16b with thefirst antenna element 16a being disposed along thefirst edge 28c of theperiphery 28 and thesecond antenna element 16b being disposed along the opposingsecond edge 28d of theperiphery 28. Each of the first andsecond antenna elements first antenna segment 40 and asecond antenna segment 50. Thefirst antenna segment 40 of each of the first andsecond antenna elements outer region 30 and spaced from theperiphery 28. Thefirst antenna segment 40 of thefirst antenna element 16a extends along thefirst edge 28c of theperiphery 28. Thefirst antenna segment 40 of thesecond antenna element 16b extends along the opposingsecond edge 28d of theperiphery 28. Thesecond antenna segment 50 of each of the first andsecond 16b extends from theantenna elements 16afirst antenna segment 40 of each of the first andsecond antenna elements transparent layer 24 such that each of thesecond antenna segments 50 crosses theperiphery 28 of thetransparent layer 24 and with each of thesecond antenna segments 50 abutting and being in direct electrical contact with thetransparent layer 24. Afirst feeding element 60a is coupled to thefirst antenna element 16a for energizing the first andsecond antenna segments first antenna element 16a and thetransparent layer 24 such that the first andsecond antenna segments transparent layer 24 collectively transmit and/or receive radio frequency signals. Asecond feeding element 60b is coupled to thesecond antenna element 16b for energizing the first andsecond antenna segments second antenna segments transparent layer 24 collectively transmit and/or receive radio frequency signals. - In another embodiment of
FIG. 4 , each of the first andsecond antenna elements third antenna segment 70. Thethird antenna segment 70 of each of the first andsecond antenna elements second antenna segment 50 of each of the first andsecond antenna elements first antenna segment 40 of each of the first andsecond antenna elements transparent layer 24. Each of thethird antenna segments 70 crosses theperiphery 28 of thetransparent layer 24. Each of thethird antenna segments 70 abuts and is in direct electrical contact with thetransparent layer 24. Thefirst feeding element 60a is coupled to thefirst antenna element 16a for energizing the first, second, andthird antenna segments first antenna element 16a and thetransparent layer 24 such that the first, second, andthird antenna segments transparent layer 24 collectively transmit and/or receive radio frequency signals. Thesecond feeding element 60b is coupled to thesecond antenna element 16b for energizing the first, second, andthird antenna segments third antenna segments transparent layer 24 collectively transmit radio frequency signals. In one embodiment, thewindow assembly 10 ofFIG. 4 transmits radio frequency signals for TV applications. - As shown in
FIG. 19 , thewindow assembly 10 may include aparasitic element 110. Theparasitic element 100 may be formed of a conductive material, such as a metallic print. Theparasitic element 110 may have different configurations. In one embodiment, theparasitic element 110 has an elongated configuration. In another embodiment, theparasitic element 110 has an L-shaped configuration or a T-shaped configuration. Theparasitic element 110 is spaced from theantenna element 16. Theparasitic element 110 is does not abut theantenna element 16. In one embodiment, theparasitic element 110 is electrically disconnected from thetransparent layer 24. In another embodiment, theparasitic element 110 is electrically connected to thetransparent layer 24. Additionally, theparasitic element 110 may be disposed entirely in theouter region 30 such that theparasitic element 110 is surrounded by theouter region 30. Alternatively, theparasitic element 110 element may be disposed entirely within theperiphery 28 of thetransparent layer 24. Furthermore, theparasitic element 110 element may be disposed partially in theouter region 30 and partially within theperiphery 28 of thetransparent layer 24. -
FIGS. 20 and 21 are charts illustrating antenna performance of thewindow assembly 10 according to one embodiment of the present invention. The chart inFIG. 20 illustrates antenna performance where vertical polarization is utilized. The chart inFIG. 21 illustrates antenna performance where horizontal polarization is utilized. The antenna performance in bothFIGS. 20 and 21 was measured in the VHF range. More specifically, the antenna performance was measured in the TV application range of 170-222 MHz'sFIGS. 20 and 21 illustrate antenna gain measured in dBi (isotropic). As shown inFIG. 20 , thewindow assembly 10 exhibited gains greater than -15 dBi throughout the given frequency range at vertical polarization. As shown inFIG. 21 , thewindow assembly 10 exhibited gains greater than -20 dBi throughout the given frequency range at horizontal polarization. In bothFIGS. 20 and 21 , the gain exhibited is substantially consistent across the given frequency range. Examples of such embodiments that may exhibit such antenna performance include, but are not limited to, thewindow assembly 10 ofFIG. 2 . More specifically, any given one, or a combination ofantenna elements - The present invention has been described herein in an illustrative manner. It is to be understood that the terminology which has been used is intended to be in the nature of words of description rather than of limitation. Obviously, many modifications and variations of the invention are possible in light of the above teachings. The invention may be practiced otherwise than as specifically described within the scope of the appended claims.
Claims (17)
- A window assembly (10) comprising:a substrate (17, 18, 20);a transparent layer (24) disposed on said substrate (17, 18, 20) and defining an area (26) having a periphery (28) and with said transparent layer (24) comprising a metal compound such that said transparent layer (24) is electrically conductive;an outer region (30) devoid of said transparent layer (24) defined adjacent said transparent layer (24) along said periphery (28);an antenna element (16) disposed on said substrate (17, 18, 20) and being configured to transmit and/or receive radio frequency signals, and with said antenna element including: a first antenna segment (40) disposed in said outer region (30) and spaced from said periphery (28) with said first antenna segment (40) being elongated and extending along said periphery (28); anda second antenna segment (50) and a third antenna segment (70) each extending substantially perpendicular from said first antenna segment (40) toward said transparent layer (24) such that each of said second and third antenna segments (50, 70) crosses said periphery (28) of said transparent layer (24) with said second and third antenna segments (50, 70) each abutting and being in direct electrical contact with said transparent layer (24); anda feeding element (60) coupled to said antenna element (16) for energizing said antenna segments (40, 50, 70) and said transparent layer (24) such that said antenna segments (40, 50, 70) and said transparent layer (24) collectively transmit and/or receive radio frequency signals.
- A window assembly (10) as set forth in claim 1 wherein said first antenna segment (40) extends substantially parallel to said periphery (28) and includes a first end (42) and a second end (44) opposite said first end (42).
- A window assembly (10) as set forth in claim 2 wherein said second antenna segment (50) extends from said first antenna segment (40) between said first and second ends (42, 44) of said first antenna segment (40) such that said second antenna segment (50) is spaced from each one of said first and second ends (42, 44) of said first antenna segment (40).
- A window assembly as set forth in claim 2 wherein said second antenna segment (50) extends from said first antenna segment (40) at one of said first and second ends (42, 44) of said first antenna segment (40).
- A window assembly (10) as set forth in any one of claims 2-4 wherein said third antenna segment (70) extends from said first antenna segment (40) between said first and second ends (42, 44) of said first antenna segment (40) such that said third antenna segment (70) is spaced from each one of said first and second ends (42, 44) of said first antenna segment (40).
- A window assembly as set forth in any one of claims 2-4 wherein said third antenna segment (70) extends from said first antenna segment (40) at one of said first and second ends (42, 44) of said first antenna segment (40).
- A window assembly (10) as set forth in any preceding claim wherein said first and second antenna segments (40, 50) are configured to provide radiation pattern altering by altering directions by which radio signals are transmitted and/or received by said first antenna segment (40), said second antenna segment (50), and/or said transparent layer (24).
- A window assembly (10) as set forth in any preceding claim wherein said feeding element (60) is spaced from and capacitively coupled to said antenna element (16).
- A window assembly (10) as set forth in any preceding claim wherein said antenna element (16) and said feeding element (60) are integrated into a single component.
- A window assembly (10) as set forth in any preceding claim wherein said antenna element (16) and said transparent layer (24) each have an electrical conductivity wherein said electrical conductivity of said antenna element (16) is of a higher order of magnitude than said electrical conductivity of said transparent layer (24).
- A window assembly (10) as set forth in any preceding claim wherein said transparent layer (24) is a defrosting or defogging element.
- A window assembly (10) as set forth in any preceding claim wherein said outer region (30) surrounds an entirety of said periphery (28) of said area (26) of said transparent layer (24).
- A window assembly (10) as set forth in claim 9 wherein said outer region (30) separates said transparent layer (24) and a window frame (14) of a vehicle (12) to avoid possibility of an electrical path being established between said transparent layer (24) and the window frame (14).
- A window assembly (10) as set forth in any preceding claim wherein said antenna element (16) is configured to transmit and/or receive radio frequency signals for at least one of Remote Keyless Entry (RKE), Digital Audio Broadcasting (DAB), FM, cellular and TV applications.
- A window assembly (10) as set forth in any preceding claim wherein said first and second antenna segments (40, 50) are comprised of a metallic print.
- A window assembly (10) as set forth in any preceding claim wherein a length (L1) of said first antenna segment (40) is at least double a length (L2) of said second antenna segment (50).
- A window assembly (10) as set forth in claim 16 wherein said length (L1) of said first antenna segment (40) is in a range between 10-25 cm and said length (L2) of said second antenna segment (50) is in a range between 0.5-5 cm .
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
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PCT/US2014/012526 WO2015112135A1 (en) | 2014-01-22 | 2014-01-22 | Window assembly with transparent layer and an antenna element |
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EP3097603A1 EP3097603A1 (en) | 2016-11-30 |
EP3097603B1 true EP3097603B1 (en) | 2018-12-05 |
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EP (1) | EP3097603B1 (en) |
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US9406996B2 (en) | 2014-01-22 | 2016-08-02 | Agc Automotive Americas R&D, Inc. | Window assembly with transparent layer and an antenna element |
US9806398B2 (en) | 2014-01-22 | 2017-10-31 | Agc Automotive Americas R&D, Inc. | Window assembly with transparent layer and an antenna element |
CN107820523B (en) * | 2015-06-30 | 2021-08-31 | 希伯莱因股份公司 | Stuffer-crimping device for crimping, nozzle core and molding of a nozzle core, expansion kit, locking device and positioning element and method therefor |
GB201608383D0 (en) | 2016-05-12 | 2016-06-29 | Pilkington Group Ltd | Connector for antennas, a glazing comprising the connector and an antenna system comprising the connector |
US10721795B2 (en) | 2018-02-20 | 2020-07-21 | Agc Automotive Americas R&D, Inc. | Window assembly comprising conductive transparent layer and conductive element implementing hybrid bus-bar/antenna |
EP3743957B1 (en) | 2018-03-30 | 2024-05-15 | AGC Glass Europe | Laminated glazing panel having an antenna |
WO2024115047A1 (en) | 2022-12-02 | 2024-06-06 | Agc Glass Europe | An antenna system comprising a flat connector with impedance matching |
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GB2193846B (en) * | 1986-07-04 | 1990-04-18 | Central Glass Co Ltd | Vehicle window glass antenna using transparent conductive film |
JPS63155805A (en) * | 1986-12-19 | 1988-06-29 | Central Glass Co Ltd | Glass antenna for vehicle |
GB2200498B (en) * | 1986-12-19 | 1990-07-18 | Central Glass Co Ltd | Vehicle window glass antenna using transparent conductive film |
JPS63196106U (en) * | 1987-01-20 | 1988-12-16 | ||
JPH025941U (en) * | 1988-06-27 | 1990-01-16 | ||
JPH0282701A (en) * | 1988-09-19 | 1990-03-23 | Central Glass Co Ltd | Transparent glass antenna for vehicle |
JPH02113603A (en) * | 1988-10-21 | 1990-04-25 | Central Glass Co Ltd | Transparent glass antenna for vehicle |
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2014
- 2014-01-22 JP JP2016547574A patent/JP6123033B2/en active Active
- 2014-01-22 EP EP14703708.9A patent/EP3097603B1/en active Active
- 2014-01-22 WO PCT/US2014/012526 patent/WO2015112135A1/en active Application Filing
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Publication number | Publication date |
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JP6123033B2 (en) | 2017-04-26 |
EP3097603A1 (en) | 2016-11-30 |
WO2015112135A1 (en) | 2015-07-30 |
JP2017505576A (en) | 2017-02-16 |
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