MXPA99009713A - A coupler for a multi-frequency antenna - Google Patents

Abstract

A multiple frequency coupler (10) establishes a low noise communication path, through the windshield of a vehicle (16), from a multiple frequency wireless telephone (14) or multiple single frequency telephones, each operating at a different frequency, in the vehicle to the exterior of the vehicle. The coupler (10) includes two preferably like-shaped internal and external elements (22, 32) that are oriented face to face with each other, with the windshield sandwiched between them. Each element (22, 32) is tapered, and the elements are juxtaposed with each other such that the wider end of one element is generally opposite the narrower end of the other. Also, a multiple frequency radiator (112) is attached to the external element (22). The radiator includes plural radiating elements (114, 116) that are separated from each other and that are attached to a common base, with each radiating element being configured for radiating a respective frequency.

Description

A COUPLER FOR A ULTIMETERANCE ANTENNA BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION. Field of the Invention The present invention relates generally to a coupler for an antenna, and is suitable for use with multiple band wireless telephones in vehicles, for example.

II. Description of the Related Art Wireless telephones are increasingly used due to the convenience they give to personal communications. The technology of wireless telephony continues to advance, producing better wireless communication systems, even when old systems, however, are still in use. For example, the first wireless telephone systems use the principles of analog communication and a frequency band of communication of around 800 MHz, while more recent systems have been introduced using the principles of digital communication in a band of frequency of around 1900 MHz. In some geographical regions, both systems are in use, and in some circumstances, older systems operating around 800 MHz have been or will be converted to use the principles of digital communication. In any case, due to the different frequencies used by different wireless telephone systems, the frequency at which the user's wireless telephone must operate must change from region to region. In reality, some users in a given region may require telephones operating at a first frequency, while other users in the same region must communicate using a second frequency. In some cases, more than two frequencies may be in operation in a single area. Recognizing the aforementioned problem, an object of the present invention is to provide cordless telephones that can communicate using one of at least two (and perhaps more) frequencies, so that telephones can be used in conjunction with more than one system. In other words, the present invention recognizes that it is desirable for a wireless telephone model to be useful in more than one communication system, to increase the operational flexibility of the telephone. As a less desirable alternative, two telephones can be provided, each operating at a respective single frequency.

It is expected that to improve communication when a wireless telephone is used within the passenger compartment of a vehicle, it is advantageous to provide a coupling device in the vehicle which, together with an associated antenna called a radiator, essentially establishes a transmission path of the vehicle. Low noise from the phone to the air interface outside the vehicle. Among other considerations, the above factors, as are inventively recognized herein, imply that a wireless telephone, when used in a vehicle, must be associated with signal transmission coupling devices that effectively transmit signals in both of those two bands frequency to and from the phone inside the vehicle. From the above discussion, however, it can be appreciated that the existing wireless phone docking devices used in vehicles are designed to be used with only one frequency. Consequently, such existing devices, when used with a telephone or multiple frequency telephones, would effectively connect to the air interface, signals in one of the frequency bands of the telephone, but unfortunately, no more. Thus, the need is recognized to provide a coupling device with an associated multiple band antenna in a vehicle that effectively couples signals in two or more frequency bands to the air interface of a wireless telephone communication system. Accordingly, an object of the present invention is to provide a coupling device that can be associated with a vehicle to establish a low noise communication path to and from a wireless telephone within the vehicle. Another object of the present invention is to provide a coupler in a vehicle that can selectively couple signals in at least two frequency bands through a vehicle window. Still another object of the present invention, is to provide a multiple (dual) band radiator, for use with such a coupler in a vehicle, radiator which can effectively radiate signals in each of the two frequency bands. Still another object of the present invention is to provide a coupling device for coupling multiple band signals to and from a wireless telephone in a vehicle, so that the coupling device is easy to use and inexpensive to manufacture and implement.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION The invention provides a coupler for establishing a communication path between a wireless telephone inside a vehicle and the exterior of the vehicle, comprising: an external coupling element fixed to an external surface of a vehicle component, external coupling element defines a base end and a tapered or conical end, the external coupling element is tapered from the base end to the tapered or conical end; and an element securable internal coupling to an inner surface of the vehicle component and engageable electrically to the cordless telephone, the inner attachment element defines a base end and a tapered or conical end, the inner attachment element is oriented relative to element external coupling with the base end of the internal element juxtaposed as the tapered or conical end of the external element, and the base end of the external element juxtaposed with the tapered or conical end of the internal element. The invention also provides a coupler for establishing a communication path between a wireless telephone within a vehicle and the exterior of the vehicle, comprising; an external coupling element fixed to an external surface of a component of the vehicle, the external coupling member defines a base end and a tapered or tapered end, the outer coupling member is tapered from the base end to the tapered or conical end; and an internal coupling element attachable to an internal surface of the vehicle component and electrically coupled to the cordless telephone, the internal coupling member defines a base end and a tapered or tapered end, the inner coupling element is oriented in relation to the external coupling with the base end of the internal element juxtaposed with the tapered end of the external element, and the base end of the external element juxtaposed with the tapered or conical end of the internal element. The invention further provides a method for establishing a communication path between a wireless telephone within a vehicle and the exterior of the vehicle, comprising: providing an external coupling element having a tapered configuration and defining a tapered direction; providing an internal coupling element having a tapered configuration, and defining a tapered direction; fixing the external coupling element to an exterior surface of the vehicle; and fixing the internal coupling element to an inner surface of the advantage opposite to the external coupling element, so that the window is sandwiched between the elements and in such a way that the tapered direction of the internal element is opposite to the tapered direction of the element external. The invention also provides a coupler for an antenna, the coupler comprises two coupling elements, each of which has a tapered end portion with a narrow end portion and which is arranged on the respective surfaces of a dielectric layer with the end portion wide of one element cooperating with the narrow end portion of the other element, to provide signal coupling through the dielectric layer. A coupler is described herein to establish a communication path between a wireless telephone within a vehicle and the exterior of the vehicle. The coupler includes an external coupling element that can be fixed to an external surface of a component (eg, a windshield) of the vehicle. As described in more detail below, the external coupling member defines a base end and a tapered end, and the outer coupling member is tapered from the base end to the tapered or conical end.

In addition, an internal coupling element can be fixed to an internal surface of the component, windshield and be connected or electrically coupled to the cordless phone. The internal coupling element defines a base end and a tapered end. Importantly, the internal coupling element is oriented in relation to the external coupling element with the base end and the internal coupling element juxtaposed with the tapered end of the external coupling element and with the base end of the external coupling element juxtaposed with the tapered end of the internal coupling element. Preferably, each coupling element is associated with a respective adhesive layer for securing the element to a window. According to the principles of the present invention, the external coupling element defines a longitudinal dimension between its ends and a transverse dimension. The surface area per unit length of a first portion of the element extending through the element in the transverse dimension is greater than the surface area per unit length of a second portion of the element extending through the element in the transverse dimension. transverse dimension, when the second portion is closer to the tapered end than the first portion. In another sense, the external coupling element defines a continuous base in the transverse direction, and at least one arm extending longitudinally away from the base. In one embodiment, the external coupling element includes two arms in cascade, with each arm defining a respective end edge and a respective central edge. At least one of the edges is oriented at an oblique angle in relation to the longitudinal dimension. Alternatively, a single arm can be provided, which includes an outer edge that has a curvature defined by an exponential function. In yet another alternative, at least one arm includes multiple segments with a first segment that is oriented, so as to generate, longitudinally and a second segment adjacent to the first and folded in relation thereto, so that the second segment is oriented, general way, transversally to the first. In other words, the second segment is angled in relation to the first. In this way, the element is configured to be received in a relatively small enclosure. In the additional embodiments, three or more segments may be joined in series in a contiguous structure where desirable, to form larger or more complex arm structures. Each segment in such an arm can be attached at various angles to the adjacent elements, the typical 90 degree being, but not a required angle. For example, a series of arm segments can be formed at 120 degree angles to each other. In a further alternative, an arm can be formed as a continuous curved element. A double frequency coupler for establishing a low noise communication path includes two flat elements facing face to face with a disposable dielectric material therebetween. According to what is intended by the present invention, the elements generally have the same configuration with each other, with each element being tapered, so that each element defines a respective tapered direction. The elements are oriented in relation to each other with their tapered directions being opposite. The elements generally also define a central line along a longitudinal axis, and are aligned with each other in relation to this central line. Additionally, the elements can use different numbers of arms, inclination angles, or total dimensions, depending on the specific application. A method for establishing the communication path between a wireless telephone inside a vehicle and the exterior of the vehicle is described. The method hereof includes providing an external coupling element having a tapered configuration and defining a tapered direction., and likewise, provides an external coupling element having a tapered configuration defining a tapered direction. The external coupling element is fixed to an outer surface of an advantage or other surface of the vehicle, and the internal coupling element is fixed to an inner surface of the window, so that the tapered direction of the internal element is opposite to the direction tapered from the external element. With this structure cooperation, the window is sandwiched between the elements. Preferably, the external coupling element is connected to a radiator having a plurality of radiating elements spaced apart from each other and joined to a common base. The radiating elements are configured to transmit and receive signals at various frequencies accommodated by the coupler.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS The features, objects and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent from the detailed description set forth below of an embodiment of the invention when taken in conjunction with the drawings, in which reference characters Similar identifies similar elements therethrough, and where: FIGURE 1 illustrates a perspective view of a vehicle incorporating a coupling device and radiator incorporating the principles of the present invention, showing a wireless telephone hook-switch and telephone FIGURE 1 2 illustrates a perspective view of the coupling device of FIGURE 1; FIGURE 2B illustrates a perspective view of the coupling device of FIGURE 1 with a multiple frequency antenna connected thereto; FIGURE 3 is a plan view of one of the coupling elements illustrated in FIGURE 2 with a single arm; FIGURE 4A is a plan view of an alternative embodiment of one of the coupling elements shown in FIGURE 2 with two arms having two central edges straight, and two tapered outer edges; FIGURE 4B is a plan view of another alternative embodiment of one of the coupling elements shown in FIGURE 2 with two arms having two straight external edges, and two tapered central edges; FIGURE 4C is a plan view of another alternative embodiment of one of the coupling elements shown, having two tapered outer edges and two tapered central edges; FIGURE 4D is a plan view of an alternative embodiment of the coupling element of FIGURE 4A with arms of different lengths; FIGURE 4E is a plan view of an alternative embodiment of the coupling element of FIGURE 4C with arms of different lengths; FIGURES 5A, 5B and 5C are plan views of another alternative embodiment of one of the coupling elements having three tapered arms of two different lengths, three different lengths and the same length, respectively; FIGURE 5D is a plan view of another alternative embodiment of one of the coupling elements having three tapered arms that are subdivided into six; FIGURES 6A and 6B are plan views of another alternative embodiment of one of the coupling elements having four arms tapered therewith and different lengths, respectively; FIGURES 7A and 7B are plan views of the preferred coupling elements with only one of the arms, respectively, each having a tapered, curved outer edge, the curvature of which is defined by an exponential function; FIGURE 7C is a plan view of a preferred coupling element with a tapered, curved outer edge, the curvature of which is inward; FIGURE 7D is a plan view of a preferred coupling element with a tapered, stepped or stepped outer edge; FIGURE 8 is a perspective view of a preferred coupling element, the larger surface of which is curved in two dimensions, to conform to the shape of a curved window of a vehicle; FIGURES 9A and 9B are plan views of another alternative embodiment of one of the coupling elements having two tapered arms, each with at least two segments positioned at angles to each other to facilitate assembly within a comparatively small enclosure; FIGURE 10 is a plan view of another alternative embodiment of one of the coupling elements, which has the shape of a sickle; FIGURES 11A-11C are perspective views of alternative embodiments of the radiator herein; FIGURE 12 is a cross-sectional view of another alternative embodiment of the radiator of the present, as would be seen along line 12-12 in FIGURE 2A; FIGURE 13 is a cross-sectional view of another alternative embodiment of the radiator of the present, as would be seen along line 12-12 in FIGURE 2A; FIGURE 14 is a cross-sectional view of another alternative embodiment of the radiator of the present, as would be seen along line 12-12 in FIGURE 2A, to be used separately from a vehicular windshield, which shows a power circuit or connection mechanism; FIGURE 15 is a schematic partially sectional plan view of another alternative embodiment of the radiator of the present, to be used separately from a vehicular windshield, showing a power circuit or connection mechanism; FIGURE 16 is a schematic side view of yet another alternative embodiment of the radiator of the present, to be used separately from a vehicular windshield, showing a supply circuit or connection mechanism; FIGURES 17A and 17B are perspective views of another alternative embodiment of the radiator of the present, showing the radiating elements that are tapered and curved; FIGURE 17C is a series of alternative cross-sectional views for the radiator of FIGURES 17A and 17B; and FIGURES 18A and 18C are plan and side views of the material being formed in the embodiment of FIGURE 17.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED MODALITIES Referring initially to FIGURES 1 and 2 (2A and 2B), a coupler, generally designated 10, is shown to establish a low noise communication path between the outside of a vehicle 12 and a wireless device, such as a cordless telephone 14. Also contemplated is the use of other wireless devices, such as message receivers and data transfer devices (eg, laptops, personal data assistants, modems, fax machines), which may use other types of known mechanisms to connect to the coupler antenna discussed later. In a modality shown in FIGURE 1, the telephone 14 is placed inside a passenger compartment 16 of the vehicle 12. In the preferred embodiment shown, the wireless telephone 14 is a dual frequency telephone, although it may be a single telephone. frequency or can use more than two frequencies, or they can be multiple telephones of a single frequency, each one operating at a different frequency. More specifically, the cordless telephone 14 may preferably transmit and receive signals in one of at least two frequency bands. Exemplary frequency bands define the respective center frequencies of approximately eight hundred fifty-nine million cycles per second and one thousand nine hundred twenty million cycles per second (859 MHz and 1920 MHz), which are commonly known as "cellular" frequencies and "personal communication services" (PCS). However, the principles described here apply to other frequency bands, in addition to the above. It will be readily understood that the present invention can accommodate useful multiple telephones in a single switch hook, with each telephone using a respective single frequency, in addition to single multiple frequency telephones. For example, where a telephone housing structure and common external configuration are used to manufacture cordless telephones, which operate in different frequency bands. Preferably, to facilitate the so-called hands-free communication using the telephone 14, the telephone 14 is placed on a telephone switch hook 18 within the passenger compartment 16. The switch hook 18 may include speakers and amplifiers in accordance with known principles in the art, which are activated to allow a user of the telephone 14 to speak to the telephone 14 and to hear signals thereof without holding or otherwise manipulating the telephone 14, and to observe visual presentations on the telephone 14. Accordingly, a person can use the telephone 14 on the hook switch 18 to communicate hands-free via any of the telephone frequencies with a wireless communication system. In FIGURE 1, the wireless communication system is partially represented by an air interface 20 which is external to the vehicle 12. However, because the telephone 14 is placed inside the vehicle 12, the noise, interference and / or blockage of the the signal that is induced by the structure of the vehicle 12, can degrade the transmission and reception of the communication signals that are transmitted and received by the telephone 14. With this in mind, the structure described below is provided to establish a trajectory of low noise communication between the telephone 14 and the air interface 20, and, subsequently, one or more communication systems, which is effective no matter what frequency is used by the telephone 14. With particular reference to FIGURES 2A and 2B, the coupler 10 includes an external coupling element 22 which is fixed to an external surface 24 of a dielectric vehicle component, such as a window or the front or rear transparent windscreen 26, of the vehicle 12. In some applications, other known vehicle components such as plastic type panels or glass fibers could serve as mounting surface. For purposes of description, the external coupling element 22 is shown as a flat, plate of electrically conductive material (eg, copper, bronze, steel or aluminum), which is etched or deposited on a dielectric substrate 28, the substrate 28 it is shown in FIGURE 2 (2A and 2B) as if it were transparent. As described below with reference to FIGURE 8, however, the coupling element need not be planar, but may be curved over one or two dimensions as appropriate to conform to, for example, a curved vehicle windshield, against which the coupling elements are or are placed. Curved or variable surfaces are generally used to place the coupler 10 as level on the surface as possible, to minimize signal loss and maintain good surface support. Additionally, an outer foam adhesive layer 30 is adhered, which has adhesive surfaces opposite the dielectric substrate 28 with the external coupling element 22. The coupling element 22 is placed between the outer foam adhesive layer 30 and the dielectric substrate 28 as it shows. In turn, the outer foam adhesive layer 30 is adhered to the windshield 26 to thereby fix the external coupling element 22 to the windshield 26. Alternatively, the external coupling element 22 can be adhered to the windshield 26 using compounds epoxy or resin, cements, adhesive agents, or similar materials or techniques well known in the art. In addition to the above structure, an internal coupling element 32, which in the embodiment shown is configured substantially identical to the external coupling element 22, is fixed to an inner surface 34 of the windshield 26. Although shown. in this example as if it were substantially identically configured to the external coupling element 22, however, if desired, to improve the operation, the size of the internal coupling element 32 may be proportionally smaller or larger than the size of the external coupling element 22. In addition, the internal coupling element 32 need not be "configured identically to the external coupling element 22. Instead, the coupling elements of the present 22, 32 are configured as appropriate for the efficient transfer of signals between the two couplers based on the current flow in the coupler element Those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that field simulation studies or other known techniques can be used to determine the appropriate dimensions of the couplers. anticipated that in actual use the external and internal couplers probably do not They are precisely aligned when they are installed in some applications. Each coupler 22, 32 defines a respective center line 22z, 32z, and the center lines 22z, 32z should be spaced apart from each other, i.e., aligned with each other through the windshield 26, with the center lines parallel to each other and the distance between the minimum center lines. As better described below, a coupling element may have more than one arm, especially where multiple frequencies are to be accommodated. For example, the internal and external coupling elements could each have an even number of arms with a substantially equal width, with a center line between the two internal arms, or an odd number of spleens with a center line that is a longitudinal bisector of a central arm, or other widths and arrangements that place the center line partially on an arm. In any situation, the coupling elements are aligned in relation to those center lines. further, the internal and external coupling elements may have different numbers, or sizes, of arms. For example, an internal coupling element could have, for example, four arms, with its center line between the two internal arms, and a corresponding external coupling element could have three arms, with its center line along the longitudinal bisector of the arm. central arm. However, these two couplers could still be aligned in relation to their respective centerlines. It is preferred that both elements 22, 32 have the same number of arms, however, especially when more than one frequency is coupled by the elements. It is also preferred that the center lines are substantially centered and not offset from each other, so that the couplers are placed generally symmetrically in relation to the center line of the opposite coupler. Like the external coupling element 22, the internal coupling element 32 can be etched onto a respective dielectric substrate 36, and the substrate 36 with the internal coupling element 32 held on the windshield 26 by means of a foam adhesive layer internal 38. In addition, a metal or metal-coated plate 40 is provided which is separated from the dielectric layer 36 by an air-filled space or filled with a dielectric 42. The internal coupling element 32 is electrically connected to (FIG. that is, powered from) the wireless telephone 14 via a power line 44, which is connected to the switch hook 18 in this example. FIGURE 2 shows two characteristics of the modality with respect to the configuration of the coupling elements 22, 32 and their orientation in mutual relation In one embodiment, the coupling elements 22, 32 are triangular. the embodiment shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B and in general, the external coupling element 22 defines a base end 22a, a tapered end 22b, and consequently tapers inwardly from the base end 22a toward the tapered end 22b. similarly, the inner coupling element 32 defines a base end 32a and a tapered end 32b.As shown in FIGURE 2, the base end 32a of the internal coupling element 32 is connected to the power line 44. The previous configuration of the element The coupling of the embodiment can be established in a somewhat different way, More specifically, the external coupling element 22 defines a longitudinal dimension " L "between its ends 22a, 22b and a transverse dimension" T "that is perpendicular to the longitudinal dimension" L ". As shown in FIGURE 2B, the surface area per unit length of the first portion "Pl" of the element 22 extending through the element 22 in the transverse dimension "T", is greater than the surface area per unit of length of a second portion "P2" of the element 22 that likewise extends through the transverse dimension "T", but closer to the tapered end 22b than the first portion Pl. From another aspect still, the coupling element of the present invention, which uses the external coupling element 22 as an example, defines a base end 22a which is continuous in the transverse dimension "T" and at least one tapered arm extending longitudinally away from the base end 22a. Turning now to the orientation of the coupling elements 22, 32 in mutual relation, according to the present invention, the coupling element 32 is parallel to and overlaps the external coupling 22. In addition, the principles of the present contemplate that the element inner coupling 32 is oriented in relation to the inner coupling element 22 with the base end 32a of the internal element 32 juxtaposed with the tapered end 22b of the external element 22, and with the base end 22a of the external element 22 juxtaposed with the tapered end 32b of the internal element 32. It can be seen that, with reference to FIGURES 2A and 2B a straight line connecting the tapered end 22 of the external element 22 to the base end 32a of the internal element 32, is substantially perpendicular to the planes defined by the elements 22, 32. Likewise, a straight line connecting the tapered end 32b of internal element 32 with base end 22a of external element 22 is substantially perpendicular to the planes defined by elements 22, 32. In this way, two elements 22, 32 overlap each other and face to face, with each element 22, 32 defining a respective tapered direction, and with the elements being oriented in relation to each other with their opposite tapered directions and with their lines respective central 22z, 32z aligned, that is, with the distances between the central lines 22 z, 32z reduced to the minimum. However, it will be appreciated that the two base ends do not have to be superimposed or vertically aligned accurately with each other. The energy of FR (Radio Frequency) is still coupled between the elements, even when there is a deviation or difference in the size of the elements. This potentially affects the efficiency or loss of the coupler, but does not significantly inhibit the operation. As stated above, it is also somewhat unlikely that the internal and external elements of the coupler will have a highly accurate alignment when installed in a vehicle "in the field", as opposed to a manufacturing scenario of a highly controlled vehicle. The structure described above provides a low-cost, wide-band (multi-frequency) or dual-band glass (RF) frequency coupler (RF) 10. In reality, the above structure is useful for inductively coupling RF energy into one of the coupling elements 22, 32 in the other coupling element 32, 22, through a dielectric layer, such as, for example, the windscreen 26. In addition, superimposing the elements 22, 42 and gradually increasing the impedance of the element inner 32 tapering its transverse width to a smaller dimension from its point of origin at its base end 32a, while decreasing gradually the impedance of external element 22 by orienting its tapered dimension opposite the internal element as described, the efficient broadband coupling of the RF energy of one element 22, 32 to the other element 32, 22 is affected. Additionally, other elements may be provided. plementation of the coupling element. For example, as shown in FIGURE 3, a coupling element 50 may have a rectangular base portion 52 and a triangular arm portion 54 extending away from the base portion 52. The coupling elements with only a tapered arm are useful for coupling both of the two or more frequencies when the frequencies are multiple with each other. That is, they have wavelengths that are odd multiples of each other. This is typically expressed as those • frequencies for which a ratio of their respective quarter-wavelengths is an odd number. For example, a signal may be a quarter wavelength? / 4 while the other is a quarter wavelength of n? / 4, where n is an odd positive integer. FIGURES 4A and 4B show alternative arm structures, designated generally as 56 and 58, respectively, where a single arm is effectively divided in two along a longitudinal axis to establish two halves to increase the bandwidth of the coupler frequency. In FIGURE 4A, the arm 56 is divided into arms 57 and 59, with the entire side edge of the half 57 closely juxtaposed with and parallel to the side edge of the half 59. In FIGURE 4B, the arm 58 is divided in two. along a longitudinal axis to establish two halves 60, 62, with respective longitudinal edges facing each other diverge from each other as shown. Each arm 60, 62 has a respective open end edge 60a, 62a, the outer edges 60a, 62a are "straight" in that they are substantially parallel to the "D" direction of the taper defined by the element 58. Also, each arm 60, 62 it has central edges with a respective taper, ie angled 60b, 62b, which establishes an oblique angle in relation to the "D" direction of the taper. It should be understood that the arms and multi-arm couplers described below can be divided in a similar manner to increase the bandwidth and frequency of the coupler. In contrast to the arm structures 56 and 58 shown in FIGS. 4B and 4B, a coupling element 64 is shown in FIGURE 4C, which includes a base 66 and two tapered tapered arms 68, 70 extending away from the base. 66. Each arm 68, 70 has an external edge angled inwardly respective (from the base 66 towards the longitudinal axis "L" of the element 64) 68a, 70a, and a respective outward angled central edge 68b, 70b. Multiple arms of the same length are useful for the improved coupling of single frequencies, while multiple arms of different lengths are useful for coupling the respective multiple frequencies, especially when they are not odd multiples to each other. For example, FIGURES 4D and 4E illustrate arms of different length that are used in two arm couplers, with a pair 57 A 59 'in the arm set 56A and the pair 68 A 70' in the 64 A set with the differences being exaggerated for clarity.

In addition, as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the invention is not limited to the specific triangular formulas used for clarity in the illustration of the different embodiments of the coupling elements in FIGURES 3-4E, and as discussed below. . Other triangular shapes which do not have right angles or isosceles triangles can be employed as illustrated by dotted line 53 in FIGURE 3 and line 67 in FIGURE 4E. Each of these configurations can also use a "centerline" to align the elements of the coupler with the inverted tapers that, for convenience, do not extend through the center of the base of the arm, or of the triangle. It was contemplated that more than two arms may be incorporated in the coupling element, depending on the number of frequencies to be coupled or to increase the bandwidth of the frequency. For example, FIGURE 5A shows a coupling element 72 having a rectangular base 74 and three triangular shaped arms 76, 78, 80, extending away from the base 74, for coupling three frequencies through the windshield. As shown in FIGURE 5A, both edges of each arm 76, 78, 80 are angled inward from the base 74 relative to the longitudinal axis of the element 72. In addition, as shown in FIGURE 5A, the length of the arm 78 is greater than the lengths of arms 76, 80 to facilitate coupling of more than one frequency. Especially, arm 78 is configured to engage at least one first frequency (and odd multiples), and arms 76, 80 are configured to engage at least one second frequency. The length of the arm 80 can be smaller or larger than the length of the arm 76 (and 78) to still connect a third frequency, or a set of frequencies. This is illustrated in FIGURE 5B, where arm 80 'is shorter than arms 76' and 78 '. In FIGURE 5C, coupler arms 76", 78" and 80"are shown having the same length to improve the bandwidth of a multifrequency antenna, with dotted line 77 added to illustrate non-isosceles or rectangular alternative triangular arrays. In FIGURE 5D the arms 77, 79, 81 have been subdivided to provide additional bandwidth enhancement, however, those skilled in the art will recognize that a point of diminishing returns is generally achieved when the items are subdivided. arms too many times, compared to manufacturing costs and restrictions to do this, FIGURE 5D also illustrates the point at which the arms do not need to be subdivided in the same way, although it is generally desirable, whose principle is applicable to other configurations as well. The above principles can be extended to add additional coupling movement arms to couple additional frequencies (it is say, four or more) through a vehicle or windshield component. For example, FIGURE 6A shows a coupling element 82 having a rectangular base 84 and four triangular-shaped arms 86, 89, 90, 92, extending away from the base 84. The lengths of the arms 86-92 may be same for each, to improve the coupling of a single frequency, or the lengths can be set so that they are different from each other, as appropriate to couple four different frequencies. For example, the FXGURA 6B shows the coupling element 82 'having four triangular-shaped arms 86', 88 ', 90', 92 'extending away from the base 84, each with a different length. In contrast to the elements shown above, FIGURE 7A shows an element 94 having an inwardly curved, curved outer edge 96. The outer edge 96 of the element 94 preferably has a curvature defined by an exponential function or a predefined shape to provide better Impedance adjustment, and such configuration can perhaps, be preferred over the straight tapers. Alternatively, the curvature of the outer edge 96 can be defined by a quadratic or other curve function. Such curved edges may also be used over coupler configurations having multiple arms as discussed above, where desired, which is illustrated by the two arms 97a and 97b in FIGURE 7B. The curved edges of the coupler arms can be tilted inward as shown by the outer edge 96"of the element 94" in FIGURE 7C, although it is generally not useful for adjusting the impedances, and could also be decomposed into a series of angled elements. or discrete staggered as shown by the outer edge 96"'of the element 94"' in FIGURE 7D. Additionally, FIGURE 8 shows that element 94 defines the larger surface 95 that is curved in two dimensions, to substantially conform to a curved vehicle windshield. It should be understood that the other couplers described herein may define larger curved surfaces to conform to the surfaces or windscreens of a vehicle. In the embodiment illustrated in FIGURE 8, the larger surface 95 is established by the metal being etched or deposited on a thin, flexible dielectric substrate, 99. However, the conductive material can be molded, extruded, stamped or formed from another way to achieve such curved shapes, as desired. Variations in surface form also need not be in the form of smooth or uniform curves, but could be implemented as a series of small steps or small surfaces joined at certain angles. Those skilled in the art will readily understand the formations desired to substantially conform or approximate a given mounting surface, without at the same time creating undesirable losses to foreign radiation patterns. In addition, the coupling element can be modified without departing from the scope of the present invention to be placed in a relatively small enclosure that in other circumstances, could have insufficient dimensions to accommodate the element, such as where the wavelength, or quarter of the wavelength, is of such value that the coupler arm is larger than desired for its manufacture or aesthetic purposes. This aspect is shown in FIGURE 9A, which shows a coupling element 100 having a base 102 in which the electrical connection is made for input / output of the signal and the first and second arms 104, 106 which extend away from base 102.

Like the elements described above, the connection to element 100 shown in FIGURE 9A is made at the base of the element. Unlike the elements shown above, however, the second arm 106 does not define a single axis along its length, but the second arm 106 is bent into three segments 106a, 106b, 106c with the contiguous segments being preferably perpendicular each other and with the successive segments (of the base 102) being, progressively, transversally thinner, due to the fact that the second arm 106 continuously tapers from the base 102 along its entire length. In this way, it will be appreciated that the segment 106b is oriented in the longitudinal direction, while the arms 106a, 106c are oriented transversely. FIGURE 9B shows a coupling element 101 having a base 103 (in which the electrical connection for the inlet / outlet is made) that is similar to the coupling element 100 shown in FIGURE 9A, except that both of the first and second arm 108 and 110 are bent into multiple segments. Specifically, as shown, the first arm 108 is bent into four segments 108a, 108b, 108c and 108d, and the second arm 110 has two equally tapered segments 110a and 110b, with the contiguous segments being perpendicular to each other and to the successive segments. (from base 103) being, progressively, transversally thinner. It should be understood that the coupling elements shown in FIGURES 9A and 9B, like the element 22 shown in FIGURE 2, are used in conjunction with other similar elements with the tapered end of the element being juxtaposed with the base end of the other. Those skilled in the art will understand that the arm segments discussed above need not be placed perpendicular to each other. Each segment in such an arm can be attached at various angles to adjacent segments, with 90 degrees being the typical angle, but not required. For example, a series of arm segments at 120 degrees, or other angles, can be formed together to form a more complex geometric shape. The angles can also be less than 90 degrees, although this is more limiting for the total length of the arm. In addition, more than three or four segments can be used to achieve the desired length, and for some applications each arm can have a single segment. FIGURE 10 shows another coupling element plus 101 of the embodiment of the present invention having a sickle shape. The electrical connection is made at a point Illa, which acts like a base 102 or 103 and establishes two arms lllb, lile, one of which is shorter than the other to couple the different frequencies. As before, the two arms can also be made of the same length, as desired, to couple certain frequencies, or even divide into halves (parallel arms) to increase the bandwidth. It should be understood that the coupling elements shown in FIGURES 2-10, like the element 22 shown in FIGURES 2a and 2b, are used in conjunction with other similar elements with the tapered end of an element being juxtaposed with the base end of the other in the same general form. Returning to FIGURES 1 and 2 (2 and 2B), the external coupling element 22 is connected at or near its base end 22a to a radiator, generally designated 112 (FIGURES 1 and 2), having first and second elements. electrically conductive, rigid, elongated radiators, 114, 116. In this way, the external coupling element 22 establishes a mounting for the radiator 22. Preferably, an angle a is established between the coupler 110 and the radiator 112 as appropriate , so that the radiator 112 is oriented vertically as shown in FIGURE 1 when the coupler 10 is mounted on the surface of a vehicle, such as the windshield 16. This allows the radiator 112 to be substantially vertical. The radiating elements 114, 116 can be manufactured using various different materials such as plastic coated with metal or copper, brass, aluminum, steel, etc. The choice of materials will depend in part on the frequencies of interest and the corresponding loss imparted by the specific material. That is, the material is chosen to minimize losses where possible. These can be coated using the techniques or materials known for protection, anodized in the case of aluminum, or the entire assembly can be covered by a compact radome to protect the radiators from the elements or against environmental damage. The anodized elements and radomes add the ability to personalize with color. As shown in FIGURE 2A, the radiating elements 114, 116 are separated from each other and are joined, such as by welding, brazing, brazing or otherwise integrating with, a common electrically conductive base 118 as shown. Or, when the radiating elements are plastic coated with metal, the elements can be glued or attached or otherwise to the base.

When the radiators are integrally formed as a single unit, they can be manufactured using well known techniques of bar, wire or sheet-shaped materials that are configured with segments that are long radiating elements that emanate or extend outwardly from the central portion that becomes the conductive base 118, when the segments are bent upward to form the antenna 112. An example of this is shown with reference to FIGS. 17 and 18 below. Preferably, the radiating elements 114, 116 are made of metal or are plastic coated with metal, to make the electrically conductive elements 114, 116. Although FIGURE 2A shows that the base 118 is disk-shaped, it should be understood that the base 118 may have other shapes, for example, the base 118 may be (when seen directly from above) elliptical, triangular, square or rectangular, or sickle shaped. In the particular mode shown in the FIGURE 2A, each radiating element 114, 116 includes a curved surface facing outwards 114a, 116a, respectively, and a face facing inward, rectangular, flat, 114b, 116b, respectively. However, like the base 118, the radiating elements 114, 116 may have elliptical, sickle, triangular or rectangular cross sections. In addition, the radiating element 114 may have a shape that is different from that of the radiating element 116, provided that the radiating elements 114, 116 are configured to radiate their respective frequencies optimally. Furthermore, the radiant elements are not required to have straight side edges, but may vary in shape along their vertical extension as well, such as having a wavy cross-sectional variation, such as when a certain aesthetic is desired. The inwardly facing faces 114b, 116b of the radiating elements 114, 116 face each other. If desired, however, each radiating element 114, 116 may taper away from the base 118, in which case, the respective lengths of the radiating elements 114, 116 are adjusted as appropriate to establish the radiant elements of a quarter of a second. wavelength by the principles discussed below. Specifically, the first radiating element 114 is optimally configured to conduct signals in a first frequency band, while the second radiating element 116 is optimally configured to conduct signals in a second frequency band. In the preferred embodiment, the optimal configuration is achieved by establishing the length "Ll" of the first radiating element 114 to be substantially equal to an odd multiple of a quarter of the wavelength of the free space of the center frequency of the first band of frequency. That is Ll = 2n + l (? / 4) where? is the wavelength of the frequency of interest to be transferred by the coupler, and n is zero or a positive integer. Similarly, the length nL2"of the second radiating element 116 is substantially equal to an odd multiple of a quarter of the wavelength of the free space of the center frequency of the second frequency band FIGURE HA shows a radiator 120 which is in all essential respects, identical to the radiator 112 shown in FIGURE 2B, with the following exception: The first and second radiating elements 122, 124 are fastened to a cylindrical base of solid metal or plastic coated with metal 126, as shown in FIG. shown by means of a fastener 128 extending through the elements 122, 124 and the base 126. The fastener 128 may be, for example, a screw, rivet, bolt or fastening pin. the radiator elements are secured at various angles to a base to achieve vertical alignment on inclined or sloping surfaces, FIGURES 11B and 11C show exemplary sketches for when they are used sides or tapered shapes, as discussed below, for the radiator elements, which can also be done for other modalities, such as in FIGURE 2A. FIGURE 11B has inwardly tapered sides toward the top of the radiator elements 122 ', 124' on the antenna 120 ', and FIGURE 11C shows tapered sides facing toward the top of the radiator elements 122", 124" In addition, the radiator can be configured to optimally radiate more than two frequencies, for example, FIGURE 12 shows a radiator 130 having a base 132 to which it is first connected through four radiating elements. 134, 136, 138, 140. It should be understood that each radiating element 134, 136, 138, 140, has a length that is appropriate to configure the particular element to radiate and / or optimally receive a respective frequency, using the principles discussed previously well known in the art, alternatively, instead of the particular radiating element structures shown above, FIGURE 3 shows that the radiator 142 may include radio elements before elongated wire, electrically conductive 144, 146, 148, 150, which are incorporated in, or otherwise attached to the base 152. It should be understood that each radiating element 144, 146, 148, 150 have a length that is appropriate for configure the particular element to radiate and receive optimally a respective frequency, using the principles discussed above. FIGS. 14,16 show embodiments of the multi-frequency radiator of the present in applications other than the application discussed above (in which the radiator was associated with a coupler for coupling RF energy through the windshield of a vehicle). For example, in FIGURE 14, a radiator 154, which is in all essential respects identical to the radiator 112, shown in FIGURES 1 and 2B, is attached to a metal plate 155, and the plate 154 is included in, or attached on a dielectric substrate 156. In turn, the dielectric substrate 156 is deposited on a metal grounding plate 158 to establish a microtire feed line. It should be understood that the metal plate 155 establishes the feeding of the antenna. With this structure, the radiator 154 can be used, for example, on a vehicle to radiate and receive two frequencies as discussed above.

FIGURE 15 shows a different physical implementation of the principle discussed above which is a coplanar waveguide feed. More particularly, a radiator 160 is attached to a metal feed plate 162, and the metal ground plates 164, 166 are placed on the respective sides of the feed plate 162 and are laterally separated from the feed plate 162. same The dielectric strips 168, 170 are sandwiched, respectively between the ground plates 164, 166 and the feed plate 162, as shown. The above structure is connected to the antenna cable, which is shown, in FIGURE 15, as a coaxial cable having a central supply conductor 172 and lined grounding wires 174. The central supply conductor 172 is connected to the feed plate 162, while the lined grounding wires 174 are connected to the grounding plates 164, 166. Another further physical implementation of the above principle is shown in FIGURE 16, where a multi-element radiator 176, which is in all essential respects identical to the radiator 112 shown in FIGURES 1 and 2B, includes a base 178, and a feed wire 180, is attached to, or included in the base 178, as shown. The base 178 is placed against a dielectric layer 182, and a metal grounding plate 184 is placed against the dielectric layer 182 assumed to the base 178. A lined annular element 186 coaxially surrounds the feed wire 180. As the experts in the art they will recognize, the feed wire 180, like the other feed elements described above, is electrically connected to the appropriate antenna feed components. Turning now to FIGS. 17A and 17B, a radiator, generally designated 200, has first and second, elongated, rigid, electrically conductive radiating elements, 202, 204. As shown in FIGURE 17 (17A, 17B), the Radiant elements 202, 204, are separated from each other, and are joined by welding, brazing, brazing, or forming as an integral part, an electrically conductive base similar to a common bar 206 as shown. The base 206 may be of parallelepiped shape, cylindrical in shape or in other known ways, before being bent. In the particular embodiment shown in FIGURE 17A, each radiating element 202, 204 includes a convex, outward, curved, respective surface, 202a, 204a and a respective inward, concave, curved face, 202b, 204b. The inwardly facing faces 202b, 204b of the radiating elements 202, 204 face each other. If desired, however, the radiating elements 202, 204 can be inverted according to that shown by the radiator 200 'and the radiating elements 202', 204 'in FIGURE 17B, so that the convex surfaces oriented outwards 202a , 204a, face each other, so that the curve, and therefore the taper, is towards the outer side of the antenna. As shown, the base 206 (206 ') is connected to, or more preferably, forms an integral part as a single unit with the respective bases 208, 210 of the radiating elements 202, 204. Each element 202, 204, defines a respective vertex 212, 214 which is opposite its respective base 208, 210. The faces 202a, 202b, 204a, 204b of the elements 202, 204 diverge from the vertices 212, 214 to the bases 208, 210 as shown. Stated differently, the elements 202, 204 are tapered from their respective bases 208, 210 to their apexes 212, 214. Alternatively, the faces 202a, 202b, 204a, 204b may taper in an opposite manner, flat and / or not tapered, for example, rectangular or other geometric pattern. A few examples of such patterns, to which the invention is not limited, are shown in FIGURE 17C. In any case, the elements 202, 204 can be made from a flat piece of metal or plastic coated with metal with the base 206 extending between them, and then bent or otherwise formed in the configuration shown, or the elements 202, 204 can be machined, emptied or be molded in the configuration shown. A method of manufacturing a radiator 200 with the radiating elements 202, 204 and the common conductive base 206 is shown in FIGS. 18A-18C. In FIGURE 18A, a flat piece of conductive material 220, such as a copper or brass plate is formed in a desired shape according to the desired final width, and the length of each radiating element 202, 204 and the conductive base 206. Here, the material 220 has a tapered shape, and the base portion is narrower, due to the desired final shape, however, this is not a requirement. The taper can also be curved or arched, instead of being of straight transitions. In FIGURE 18A dotted lines were used to indicate alternative shapes for the material 220. For example, the dotted line 222 represents an outline for the material 220 when it is not tapered in a transverse direction, such as when the plate is not used or pattern bar tapered. The dotted line 224 represents an outline for when the tapered material is used in an inverted manner. That is, the material 220 is wider at the outer ends and at the top of the radiating elements, when they are bent. It will be readily understood that a mixture of that and other forms, such as curves or deviations inwards and outwards, may also be used as desired. This provides an antenna with improved availability and efficiency for the transfer of signals of multiple frequencies, while allowing aesthetic considerations also when desired. A variety of known manufacturing techniques can be used to form the material 220, which can also be in the form of rods or wires. In addition, only two radiating elements are shown for clarity, understanding that additional elements could be used as desired within the same technique. The material that forms the radiating elements 202 and 204, is then bent upwardly as shown in FIGURE 18B, and is finally placed in a vertical alignment to the base as shown in FIGURE 18C. It should be noted that the base 206, in this and other embodiments, need not form a 90 degree angle with the radiating elements 202 and 204. Other angles may be used, as shown by the dotted lines for a 206 'base, to compensate for the inclined surfaces to which the antenna is to be mounted with respect to a desired vertical inclination.

For example, the angle discussed above can be used as an angular displacement with respect to the elements 202 and 204. At this point, the material forming the elements 202 and 204 can be curved to form the shape of the final antenna of the FIGURE 17A or 17B. In the alternative, the radiator segments could be curved before being bent. The first radiating element 202 is optimally configured to conduct signals in a first frequency band, while the second radiating element 202 is optimally configured to conduct signals in a second frequency band. In the preferred embodiment, the optimum configuration is achieved by establishing the length "Ll" of the first radiating element 202 to be substantially equal to an odd multiple of one quarter of the wavelength of the free space of the center frequency of the first band of frequency. Similarly, the length "L2" of the second radiating element 204 is substantially equal to an odd multiple of a quarter of the wavelength of the free space of the center frequency of the second frequency band. The above description of the preferred embodiments is provided to enable any person skilled in the art to make or use the present invention. The different modifications to these modalities will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the generic principles defined therein can be applied to other modalities without the use of the inventive faculty. Thus, the present invention is not intended to be limited to the embodiments shown herein, but according to the broadest scope consistent with the principles and novel features described herein. It is noted that in relation to this date, the best method known to the applicant to carry out the aforementioned invention, is that which is clear from the present description of the invention.

Claims (25)

CLAIMS Having described the invention as above, the content of the following claims is claimed as property.

1. A coupler for establishing a communication path between a wireless telephone inside a vehicle and the exterior of the vehicle, characterized in that it comprises; an external coupling element attachable to an external surface of a vehicle component; the external coupling member defines a base end and a tapered end; the outer coupling member is tapered from the base end toward the tapered end; and an internal coupling element fixed to an internal surface of the vehicle component and electrically coupled to the cordless telephone, the internal coupling member defines a base end and a tapered end, the internal coupling element is oriented relative to the external coupling element with the base end of the internal element juxtaposed with the tapered end of the external element and the base end of the external element juxtaposed with the tapered end of the internal element.

2. The coupler according to claim 1, characterized in that the vehicle component is a window, and each coupling element is associated with a respective adhesive layer for fixing the element to the window.

The coupler according to claim 2, characterized in that the external coupling element defines a longitudinal dimension between the ends thereof and a transverse dimension perpendicular to the longitudinal dimension, and the surface area of a first portion of the extending element through the element in the transverse direction, it is greater than the surface area of a second portion of the element extending through the element in the transverse dimension, where the second portion is closer to the tapered end than the first position.

The coupler according to claim 3, characterized in that the external coupling element defines a continuous base in the transverse dimension, and at least one arm extending longitudinally away from the base.

The coupler according to claim 4, characterized in that the coupling element includes two arms in cascade, each arm defines a respective external edge and a respective central edge, at least one of the edges is oriented at an oblique angle in relation to the longitudinal dimension.

The coupler according to claim 4 or 5, characterized in that at least one arm includes an edge having a curvature defined by an exponential function.

The coupler according to claim 4 or 5, characterized in that at least one arm includes a first segment oriented generally longitudinally and a second segment adjacent to the first and folded in relation to it, so that the second segment is oriented , generally, transversally.

The coupler according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the external coupling element is connected to a radiator having a plurality of radiating elements separated from each other, and joined to a common base.

9. The coupler according to claim 8, characterized in that it is in combination with the vehicle component.

10. A coupler to establish a communication path between a wireless telephone inside a vehicle and the exterior of the vehicle, characterized in that it comprises; an external coupling element attachable to an external surface of a vehicle component; the external coupling member defines a base end and a tapered end; the outer coupling member is tapered from the base end toward the tapered end; and an internal coupling element fixable to an internal surface of the vehicle component and electrically coupled to the telephone-! wireless, the internal coupling element defines a base end and a tapered end, the internal coupling element is oriented relative to the external coupling element with the base end and the internal element juxtaposed with the tapered end of the external element and the base end of the external element juxtaposed with the tapered end of the internal element.

The coupler according to claim 10, characterized in that one of the elements is an external coupling element fixed to an external surface of a vehicle component, the external coupling element defines a base end and a tapered end and is tapered from the base end to the tapered end, the other element is an internal coupling element fixed to an internal surface of the vehicle component and electrically coupled to a cordless telephone, the internal coupling member defines a base end and a tapered end, the The internal coupling element is oriented in relation to the external coupling element with the base end of the internal element juxtaposed with the tapered end of the external element.

The coupler according to claim 11, characterized in that the component of the vehicle is a window, and each coupling element is associated with a respective adhesive layer for fixing the element to the window.

The coupler according to claim 12, characterized in that the external coupling element defines a longitudinal dimension between the ends thereof and a transverse dimension perpendicular to the longitudinal dimension, and the surface area of a first portion of the element extending through the element in the transverse dimension, is greater than the surface area of a second portion of the element extending through the element in the transverse dimension, when the second portion is closer to the tapered end than the first position.

14. The coupler according to claim 13, characterized in that the external coupling element defines a continuous base in the transverse dimension, and at least one arm extending longitudinally away from the base.

The coupler according to claim 14, characterized in that the coupling element includes two arms in cascade, each arm defines a respective external edge and a respective central edge, at least one of the edges is oriented at an oblique angle in relation to the longitudinal dimension.

The coupler according to claim 14 or 15, characterized in that at least one arm includes an edge having a curvature defined by an exponential function.

The coupler according to claim 14 or 15, characterized in that at least one arm includes a first segment oriented generally longitudinally and a second segment adjacent to the first and folded in relation to it, so that the second segment is oriented , generally, transversally.

The coupler according to any of claims 11 to 17, characterized in that the external coupling element is connected to a radiator having a plurality of radiant elements spaced apart from each other, and joined to a common base.

19. The coupler according to claim 18, characterized in that it is in combination with the vehicle component.

20. A method for establishing a communication path between a wireless telephone inside a vehicle and the exterior of the vehicle, characterized in that it comprises; providing an external coupling element having a tapered configuration and defining a tapered direction; providing an internal coupling element having a tapered configuration and defining a tapered direction; fixing the external coupling element to an exterior surface of the vehicle; and fixing the internal coupling element to an inner surface of the window opposite the external coupling element, so that the window is sandwiched between the elements, and so that the tapered direction of the internal element is opposite to the tapered direction of the element external.

21. The method according to claim 20, characterized in that it also comprises the step of joining to the external coupling element a double frequency radiator having a plurality of radiating elements separated from each other, and joined to a common base.

22. The method according to claim 21, characterized in that the coupling elements are recorded on respective substrates made of a dielectric material.

The method according to claim 21, characterized in that the provisioning steps comprise forming one or more tapered arms on each element.

The method according to claim 23, characterized in that the provisioning steps comprise providing a preselected bend or curve of at least one arm of at least one element.

25. A coupler for an antenna, the coupler is characterized in that it comprises two coupling elements, each of which has a wide end portion tapering towards a narrow end portion, and arranged on respective surfaces of a dielectric layer with the wide extreme portion of one element cooperating with the narrow end portion of the other element to provide signal coupling through the dielectric layer.