Patent Description:
<NUM> New Radio (NR) is the successor to <NUM> wireless communication systems and is designed to provide higher data rates, reduced latency, increased system capacity, and energy savings. The ITU IMT-<NUM> specification provides for speeds of up to <NUM> Gbit/s with relatively wide channel bandwidths by way of multiple-input/multiple-output techniques. The spectrum <NUM> NR specification has defined and sub-divided the reserved spectrum into two frequency bands: FR1 below <NUM> and FR2 greater than <NUM> (millimeter wave). That maximum channel bandwidth defined for FR1 is <NUM>. The minimum channel bandwidth defined for FR2 is <NUM> and the maximum channel bandwidth is <NUM>.

The millimeter wave technology used to support the FR2 frequency spectrum for <NUM> NR systems have the advantage of providing bandwidth that is orders of magnitude of improvement over LTE systems. The shorter wave lengths used in millimeter wave technology may also allow for the use of comparatively smaller antennas. This may allow for multiple antennas tuned for different millimeter wavelengths in a single device allowing for more efficient use of the available frequency spectrum. The higher frequencies, however, result in shorter transmission ranges and the shorter wavelengths are more impacted by interference from structural impediments, such as walls, buildings, and weather. Thus, previous generation cellular systems may use relatively fewer and larger antenna towers, while <NUM> NR cellular systems may use many more smaller antennas positioned in various locations, such as towers, light poles, buildings, and the like, particularly in urban areas with lots of structural impediments. These antenna deployments will typically use some type of shroud or radome to provide protection from environmental hazards, such as weather, insects, animals, UV damage, and the like.

<CIT> apparently discloses a `preparation method of high-frequency wave-transparent sandwich structure composite material <NUM> antenna housing'. <CIT> apparently discloses a `miniaturized dual-band ultra-wideband omnidirectional antenna'. <CIT> apparently discloses a `resin component disposed in route of beam emitted by radar device, radome, and radar device'.

According to some embodiments, a wireless communication equipment installation for wireless communication equipment includes a <NUM> New Radio (NR) antenna and a shroud member. The <NUM> NR antenna includes a radiating element configured to transmit radio signals at frequencies greater than <NUM>. The shroud member comprises a polyvinyl chloride (PVC) substrate. The radiating element is configured to emit and receive radio signals through the shroud member.

In some embodiments, the PVC substrate has a multilayer construction and includes a core layer having a front surface and an opposing rear surface, and a skin layer covering the front or rear surface of the core layer. The skin layer comprises a non-foamed PVC. The core layer comprises a foamed PVC. The skin layer is bonded to the front or rear surface of the core layer.

In some embodiments, the shroud member is a substantially flat panel, and the core layer and the skin layer are each substantially planar layers.

In some embodiments, the shroud member is a curved radome, and the core layer and the skin layer are each curved layers.

In some embodiments, the core layer has a thickness in the range of from about <NUM> to about <NUM>, and the skin layer has a thickness in the range of from about <NUM> to about <NUM>.

In some embodiments, the skin layer is a front skin layer covering the front surface of the core layer, the PVC substrate further includes a rear skin layer covering the rear surface of the core layer, and the rear skin layer is formed of a non-foamed PVC.

In some embodiments, reflected power between the front skin layer and the core layer is not greater than about -10dB, and reflected power between the rear skin layer and the core layer is not greater than about -<NUM> dB.

According to some embodiments, the wireless communication equipment installation includes a concealment system including the shroud member. The concealment system further includes a base concealment member, and an aperture defined in the base concealment member. The shroud member is mounted in or over the aperture. The concealment system is installed relative to the radiating element such that radio signals emitted from the radiating element are directed primarily through the aperture and the shroud member. The base concealment member is formed of a base material. The material of the shroud member is less attenuating of the radio signals emitted from the radiating element than the base material.

In some embodiments, the wireless communication equipment installation includes an antenna. The antenna includes the radiating element and having a front face through which the radio signals are transmitted. The concealment system further includes a rain hood covering the antenna to inhibit rain water from depositing and collecting on the front face of the antenna and/or on a rear surface of the shroud member in front of the antenna.

In some embodiments, the PVC substrate has a dielectric constant in the range of from about <NUM> to <NUM>.

In some embodiments, the shroud member has an insertion loss of less than about -<NUM> dB for frequencies of the radio signals in a range of about <NUM> to about <NUM>.

In some embodiments, a radiation pattern through the shroud member that has a half-power beamwidth angle that deviates less than two degrees relative to a half-power beamwidth angle associated with a radiation pattern generated through free space for frequencies of the radio signals in a range of about <NUM> to about <NUM>.

According to some embodiments, the radiating element is spaced apart from the shroud member at a distance in the range of from of about <NUM> to about <NUM>, and the antenna transmits millimeter-wave <NUM> radio signals at an angle of incidence of about <NUM>° to about <NUM>° relative to a surface of the shroud member.

In some embodiments, the PVC substrate comprises a foamed PVC layer.

In some embodiments, the PVC substrate has a thickness in the range of from about <NUM> to about <NUM>.

According to some embodiments, the shroud member further comprises a coating on a surface of the PVC substrate.

In some embodiments, the radiating element is configured to generate a radiation pattern through the shroud member that has a max gain of a main lobe that deviates from a max gain of a main lobe associated with a radiation pattern generated through free space by not more than about <NUM> dB.

In some embodiments, the radiating element is configured to generate a radiation pattern through the shroud member that has a half-power beamwidth angle that deviates less than one degree relative to a half-power beamwidth angle associated with a radiation pattern generated through free space.

In some embodiments, the radiating element is configured to generate the radiation pattern through the shroud member for radio signals in a frequency range of about <NUM> to about <NUM> or about <NUM>.

In some embodiments, the PVC substrate has a magnetic permeability and/or an electrical permittivity that is configured to maintain reflected power at an interface of the PVC substrate with another medium to less than about -<NUM> dB.

In some embodiments, impedance of the PVC substrate is substantially the same (e.g., within ± <NUM> Ohms) as the impedance of free space.

According to some embodiments, a method for forming a wireless communication equipment installation includes: providing a <NUM> New Radio (NR) antenna including a radiating element configured to transmit radio signals at frequencies greater than <NUM>; providing a shroud member, wherein the shroud member comprises a polyvinyl chloride (PVC) substrate; and mounting the shroud member adjacent the radiating element and in the path of radio signals emitted from the radiating element.

According to some embodiments, a wireless communication equipment installation includes wireless communication equipment and a concealment system. The wireless communication equipment includes a radiating element configured to emit radio signals. The concealment system includes a shroud member disposed adjacent the radiating element and in the path of the radio signals emitted from the radiating element. The shroud member has a multilayer construction and includes: a core layer having a front surface and an opposing rear surface; and a skin layer covering the front or rear surface of the core layer. The skin layer comprises a non-foamed polyvinyl chloride (PVC). The core layer comprises a foamed PVC. The radiating element is configured to emit and receive radio signals through the shroud member.

In some embodiments, the skin layer is a front skin layer covering the front surface of the core layer, and the shroud member further includes a rear skin layer covering the rear surface of the core layer. The rear skin layer comprises a non-foamed PVC.

In some embodiments, the wireless communication equipment and the radiating element are configured to emit the radio signals having frequencies greater than <NUM> through the shroud member.

According to some embodiments, a method for forming a wireless communication equipment installation includes providing a concealment system including a shroud member. The shroud member has a multilayer construction and includes: a core layer having a front surface and an opposing rear surface; and a skin layer covering the front or rear surface of the core layer. The skin layer comprises a non-foamed polyvinyl chloride (PVC). The core layer comprises a foamed PVC. The method further includes mounting the shroud member adjacent a radiating element of wireless communication equipment and in the path of radio signals emitted from the radiating element.

According to some embodiments, the skin layer is a front skin layer covering the front surface of the core layer, the shroud member further includes a rear skin layer covering the rear surface of the core layer, and the rear skin layer comprises a non-foamed PVC.

In some embodiments, the method includes emitting the radio signals having frequencies greater than <NUM> from the radiating element and through the shroud member.

According to some embodiments, a wireless communication equipment installation includes wireless communication and a concealment system. The equipment wireless communication equipment includes a radiating element configured to emit radio signals. The concealment system includes: a base concealment member; an aperture defined in the base concealment member; and a shroud member mounted in or over the aperture. The shroud member is disposed adjacent the radiating element and in the path of radio signals emitted from the radiating element. The base concealment member is formed of a first material. The shroud member is formed of a second material that is different from the first material. The second material is less attenuating of the radio signals emitted from the radiating element than the first material.

In some embodiments, the first material is stronger than the second material.

In some embodiments, the concealment system further includes a shroud mounting system securing the shroud member to the base concealment member.

According to some embodiments, the shroud mounting system includes a frame, the frame is secured to the base concealment member adjacent the aperture, and the shroud member is mounted on the frame.

According to some embodiments, the base concealment member and the shroud member are each substantially flat panels.

In some embodiments, the wireless communication equipment and the radiating element are configured to emit radio signals having frequencies greater than <NUM> through the shroud member.

According to the invention, a concealment system for wireless communication equipment including a radiating element includes a base concealment member, an aperture defined in the base concealment member, and a shroud member mounted in or over the aperture. The concealment system is configured to be installed relative to the radiating element such that radio signals emitted from the radiating element are directed primarily through the aperture and the shroud member. The base concealment member is formed of a first material. The shroud member is formed of a second material that is different from the first material. The second material is less attenuating of the radio signals emitted from the radiating element than the first material.

According to some embodiments, a method for forming a wireless communication equipment installation includes providing a concealment system including: a base concealment member; an aperture defined in the base concealment member; and a shroud member mounted in or over the aperture. The method further includes installing the concealment system such that the shroud member is disposed adj acent the radiating element and in the path of radio signals emitted from the radiating element. The base concealment member is formed of a first material. The shroud member is formed of a second material that is different from the first material. The second material is less attenuating of the radio signals emitted from the radiating element than the first material.

In some embodiments, the method includes retro-fitting the concealment system onto a concealment member already in service, including: forming the aperture in the base concealment member; and securing the shroud member in or over the aperture.

In some embodiments, the method includes emitting radio signals having frequencies greater than <NUM> from the radiating element and through the shroud member.

In the following detailed description, numerous specific details are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of embodiments of the present disclosure. In some instances, well-known methods, procedures, components and circuits have not been described in detail so as not to obscure the present disclosure.

As used herein, "monolithic" means an object that is a single, unitary piece formed or composed of a material without joints or seams.

As used herein, "millimeter-wave <NUM>" and "mm-wave <NUM>" refer to an apparatus that is configured to and operated to transmit RF signals in the frequency range of <NUM> and greater. The millimeter-wave band extends all the way up to <NUM>, but it is the frequency range from <NUM> up to <NUM> that is expected to be used for <NUM>. The millimeter-wave <NUM> apparatus may be a base station, an RF radio, or an antenna, for example.

Embodiments of the inventions are directed to shroud members for forming enclosures or structures, barriers or shields to hide, conceal, and/or protect an RF electromagnetic signal antenna. In particular, embodiments of the inventions are directed to such shroud members for forming enclosures or structures, barriers or shields to hide, conceal, and/or protect a millimeter-wave <NUM> RF electromagnetic signal antenna. In some embodiments, the shroud member constitutes a shroud or radome. In some embodiments, the shroud member forms a part of a shroud or radome including additional components. In some embodiments, the shroud member forms a part of a wireless communication equipment installation or concealment system according to embodiments of the invention.

The shroud members may be constructed to minimally attenuate the electromagnetic signals transmitted (emitted and/or received) by the antenna. In particular, in some embodiments, the shroud member is constructed to minimally attenuate millimeter-wave <NUM> RF electromagnetic signals transmitted by a millimeter-wave <NUM> RF electromagnetic signal antenna shrouded by the shroud member.

In some embodiments, the shroud member is a unitary or monolithic structure including multiple layers. However, in some embodiments, the shroud member is a single layer structure.

In <NUM> New Radio (NR) networks, both a base-station, e.g., gNB, and a UE can be configured to support multi-beam operation. For example, the synchronization signal block (SSB) in NR may be configured to operate with up to <NUM> narrowbeams. This number may increase in future networks as antenna and/or radio signal processing technology evolve. Depending on the purposes (e.g., initial access, broadcast transmissions), beams are typically transmitted using a beam sweep in to cover a portion or an entire cell, where the beams are transmitted consecutively in time.

<FIG> is a block diagram of a wireless communication network <NUM> including base stations that support multibeam operation according to some embodiments of the inventive concept. The wireless communication network <NUM> includes five <NUM> NR base stations gNB1 105a, gNB2 105b, gNB3 105c, gNB4 105d and gNB5 105e that are configured for multiple beam operation. The architecture of the <NUM> NR base stations gNB1 105a, gNB2 105b, gNB3 105c, gNB4 105d and gNB5 105e, according to some embodiments of the inventive concept, is illustrated in <FIG>. A base station <NUM>, which may be used to implement each of the the <NUM> NR base stations gNB1 105a, gNB2 105b, gNB3 105c, gNB4 105d and gNBS 105e, may include an antenna tower <NUM> and an equipment enclosure <NUM> that is located at the base of the antenna tower <NUM>. A plurality of baseband units <NUM> and radios <NUM> may be located within the equipment enclosure <NUM>. Each baseband unit <NUM> may be connected to a respective one of the radios <NUM> and may also be in communication with a backhaul communications system <NUM>. One or more antennas <NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>, and <NUM>-<NUM> may be located at the top of the antenna tower <NUM>. Coaxial cables <NUM> may be used to connect the radios <NUM> to the respective antennas <NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>, and <NUM>-<NUM>. Each end of each coaxial cable <NUM> may be connected to a duplexer so that both the transmit and receive signals for each radio <NUM> may be carried on a single coaxial cable <NUM>. In some implementations the radios <NUM> may be located at the top of the tower <NUM> instead of in the equipment enclosure <NUM> to reduce signal transmission losses.

Each antenna <NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>, and <NUM>-<NUM> may comprise an array of radiating elements. Each radiating element may be used to transmit radio frequency ("RF") signals that are received from a transmit port of an associated radio and to receive RF signals from mobile users and pass such received signals to the receive port of the associated radio <NUM>. Duplexers are typically used to connect the radio <NUM> to each respective radiating element of the antenna <NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>, and <NUM>-<NUM>. A "duplexer" may be a three-port filter assembly that is used to connect both the transmit and receive ports of a radio <NUM> to an antenna <NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>, and <NUM>-<NUM> or to a radiating element of a multi-element antenna <NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>, and <NUM>-<NUM>. Duplexers may be used to isolate the RF transmission paths to the transmit and receive ports of the radio from each other while allowing both RF transmission paths access to the radiating elements of the antenna <NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>, and <NUM>-<NUM>.

While the example base station <NUM> illustrates antennas <NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>, and <NUM>-<NUM> located at the top of a tower <NUM> with radios located in an enclosure <NUM>, it will be understood that the locales of these elements and other elements comprising the base station <NUM> may vary in accordance with different embodiments of the inventive concept. For example, the antennas <NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>, and <NUM>-<NUM> may be located in or on other structures, such as buildings, bridges, and the like, and may be co-located with other components, such as the radios <NUM>, to form a wireless equipment installation in or on structures that may have other purposes or uses.

In some embodiments, the base stations gNB1 105a, gNB2 105b, gNB3 105c, gNB4 105d and gNB5 105e may be configured to generate a plurality of directional beams that are transmitted at different azimuth angles. Each base station gNB <NUM> 105a, gNB2 105b, gNB3 105c, gNB4 105d and gNB5 105e may be configured to transmit a maximum number of different directional beams, such as, for example, <NUM> beams total in some embodiments. In addition, each base station gNB1 105a, gNB2 105b, gNB3 105c, gNB4 105d and gNBS 105e may be configured to use less than the maximum number of different directional beams that are configurable for operation. For example, a base station gNB <NUM> 105a, gNB2 105b, gNB3 105c, gNB4 105d and gNB5 105e may be capable of using <NUM> different directional beams, but may use only <NUM> directional beams because of a lack of need to transmit in certain geographic directions. Each base station gNB1 105a, gNB2 105b, gNB3 105c, gNB4 105d and gNB5 105e may allocate one or more sub-frequencies and time segments for transmitting and/or receiving on each beam. Each beam is separated in time and a full cycle from the first active beam to the last active beam may be called a beam sweep.

The base stations gNB1 105a, gNB2 105b, gNB3 105c, gNB4 105d and gNB5 105e may transmit a Positioning Reference Signals (PRS) on each of the beams for use in determining the positions of a User Equipment (UE). To ensure that the UE can receive the PRS transmissions, a schedule may be generated for each of the base stations gNB1 105a, gNB2 105b, gNB3 105c, gNB4 105d and gNB5 105e. Referring to <FIG>, base station gNB1 105a transmits PRSs on beams Bm1-<NUM> and Bm1-<NUM>, which are received by UEs 110a and 110b, respectively. Base station gNB2 105b transmits PRSs on beams Bm2-<NUM>, Bm2-<NUM>, which are received by UEs 110a and 110c, respectively. Base station gNB2 105b also transmits a PRS on beam Bm2-<NUM>. Base station gNB3 105c transmits PRSs on beams Bm3-<NUM> and Bm3-<NUM>, which are received by UEs 110a and 110b, respectively. Base station gNB4 105d transmits PRSs on beams Bm4-<NUM> and Bm4-<NUM>, which are received by UEs 110b and 110c, respectively. Base station gNB4 105d also transmits a PRS on beam Bm4-<NUM>. Base station gNB5 105e transmits a PRS on Bm5-<NUM>, which is received by UE 110c. Base station gNB5 105e also transmits a PRS on beam Bm5-<NUM>. Although each base station gNB1 105a, gNB2 105b, gNB3 105c, gNB4 105d and gNB5 105e is shown as only transmitting a PRS on two or three beams in <FIG>, it will be understood that the base stations gNB1 105a, gNB2 105b, gNB3 105c, gNB4 105d and gNB5 105e may transmit a PRS on more or fewer beams in accordance with various embodiments of the inventive concept. Interference among beams within the serving cell or neighbor cells may be mitigated according to some embodiments. In connected mode, a UE is communicating to a serving cell but may still listen to neighbor cells for measurement. For example, referring to <FIG>, the serving base station for UE 110a may be the first base-station (105a). The first base-station (105a) may be configured to use beam Bm1-<NUM> while the second base-station (105b) may use beam Bm2-<NUM>. Such scheduling reduces interference among beams within the serving cell and/or the neighbor cell. Thus, a UE 110a, 110b, 110c may communicate with a serving cell gNB <NUM> 105a, gNB2 105b, gNB3 105c, gNB4 105d and gNB5 105e using one or more of the beams transmitted therefrom while also listening to other neighboring cells for UE location functionality as well as handover operations when a UE 110a, 110b, 110c moves from one serving cell to another serving cell gNB1 105a, gNB2 105b, gNB3 105c, gNB4 105d and gNB5 105e.

Each of the serving base stations gNB1 105a, gNB2 105b, gNB3 105c, gNB4 105d and gNB5 105e of <FIG> may be installed with some type of shroud member used to provide environmental protection for the antenna. Such radomes may take a variety of different shapes depending on the application as described herein. For example, a shroud member may be generally planar shaped for an antenna installation on a building in which the antennas are configured to transmit radio signal beams in in a relatively limited azimuth angle range. Conversely, a shroud member may be generally cylindrical shaped for an antenna that is configured to transmit radio signal beams across a full <NUM> degree azimuth angle range. Regardless of the particular shape of the shroud member used to provide environmental protection for the antenna, it is generally desirable for the shroud member to provide low insertion loss so as to reduce the amount of radio signal beam energy that is absorbed or reflected back by the shroud member.

<FIG> illustrates a shroud member comprising a single dielectric material according to some embodiments of the inventive concept. As shown in <FIG>, a base station <NUM> may transmit radio signals through the shroud member <NUM> for receipt by one or more UEs. Because of the difference in characteristic impedance between free space and the material comprising the shroud member <NUM>, however, some of portion of the radio signal is reflected and some portion of the radio signal is transmitted through the shroud member <NUM>. In general, a low dielectric constant material reduces reflections, which reduces the impact on the radiation pattern and insertion loss of the shroud member <NUM>. Besides electrical performance, other characteristics may be considered, such as strength, operating temperature, cost, and the like, when choosing a dielectric material. Thus, it may not always be practical to choose the lowest dielectric material for use in the shroud member <NUM>. The reflection coefficient when an electromagnetic wave transitions from one material to another material is given by Equation <NUM>:
<MAT>.

The impedance of free space is 377Ω. Thus, if Z1 is the impedance of the dielectric material of the shroud member <NUM> of <FIG>, which is typically less than the impedance of free space (Z2), then the reflection coefficient Γ is negative, which means the reflected wave is <NUM> degrees out of phase with the incident wave. When the wave reaches the free space boundary on the exit side of the shroud member <NUM>, the numerator reverses resulting in as reflected wave that is again <NUM> degrees out of phase. Thus, for a shroud member <NUM> comprising a single dielectric material, the thickness T of the material may be some multiple of ½ the radio signal wavelength. This allows the reflections to cancel out within the shroud or radome <NUM>. The radio signal wave travels <NUM> degrees through the dielectric material, is reflected with a phase shift of -<NUM> degrees and travels another <NUM> degrees on the return trip to achieve the net <NUM> degree phase shift for cancellation.

Thus, according to some embodiments of the inventive concept, the thickness of a monolithic dielectric material used in a shroud member <NUM> may be approximately an integer number n multiple of one-half the wavelength of the radio signal in the dielectric material. This may be given by Equation <NUM> below:
<MAT>.

The wavelength of the radio signal in free space is equal to the speed of light divided by the frequency as set forth in Equation <NUM>:
<MAT>.

The wavelength of the radio signal in the dielectric material λm is related to the wavelength of the radio signal in free space λ<NUM> by Equation <NUM>:
<MAT> where SQRT is the square root and εr is the relative permittivity of the dielectric material <NUM>, e.g., the dielectric constant of the dielectric material.

Thus, given the radio signal frequency and the dielectric constant of the dielectric material in the shroud member <NUM>, a thickness Tm for the dielectric material <NUM> may be determined to reduce insertion loss and improve performance of the base station antenna system.

In some embodiments, the dielectric material used to form a shroud member may be reinforced with additional laminate materials to improve the structural integrity of the shroud member. This configuration may be called the A-sandwich shroud member configuration. <FIG> illustrates an A-sandwich shroud member according to some embodiments of the inventive concept. As shown in <FIG>, a base station <NUM> may transmit radio signals through the shroud member <NUM> for receipt by one or more UEs. The shroud member <NUM> comprises two outer layers 130a and 130b with a third material 130c between the two outer layers 130a and 130b. Operation of the A-sandwich shroud member configuration is similar to that of the monolithic dielectric material radome configuration of <FIG> with the exception that the thickness of the inner third material 130c may be approximately an integer number n multiple of one-quarter the wavelength of the radio signal in the dielectric material. This may be given by Equation <NUM> below:
<MAT>.

This is because the reflection coefficients from the outer layers 130a and 130b have the same amplitude and phase. Thus, given the radio signal frequency and the dielectric constant of the dielectric material 130c in the shroud member <NUM>, a thickness Tm for the dielectric material 130c may be determined to reduce insertion loss and improve performance of the base station antenna system.

In accordance with some embodiments of the inventive concept, a radome <NUM> used in a <NUM> NR base station antenna installation in which the base station operates in the millimeter-wave <NUM> frequency range (i.e., equal to or greater than <NUM>), in a frequency range of <NUM> to about <NUM> and, in some embodiments, about <NUM> to about <NUM>, and may use a dielectric material 130c comprising a PVC foamed sheet, which has a dielectric constant of about <NUM> to about <NUM>. A thickness Tm of the dielectric material 130c may be in a range of about <NUM> to about <NUM> or in some embodiments about <NUM> to about <NUM>. In some embodiments, the thickness Tm of the dielectric material 130c is in a range of about <NUM> to about <NUM>.

The embodiments of <FIG> described above may reduce insertion loss of a shroud member by adjusting the thickness of a dielectric core material based on the frequency of the radio signal and core material dielectric constant. <FIG> illustrates a shroud member comprising multiple layers of materials that are impedance matched to reduce insertion loss. As shown in <FIG>, a base station <NUM> may transmit radio signals through the shroud member <NUM> for receipt by one or more UEs. According to some embodiments of the inventive concept, a shroud member <NUM> may be viewed as a succession of one or more mediums through which a radio signal may traverse. The intrinsic impedance of a medium, assuming an ideal dielectric where the conductivity is assumed to be zero, is based on the magnetic permeability and the electrical permittivity. Specifically, the impedance of a medium may be expressed as Equation <NUM> below:
<MAT>.

Recall, however, from EQ. <NUM> above, that to minimize the reflection coefficient between two adjacent mediums, their impedances should be equal to each other. Using the example shroud member <NUM> configuration of <FIG> in which an A-sandwich structure is used with free space represented as medium 140a and the shroud member structure <NUM> including two outer layers 140b and an inner layer 140c therebetween, the relationship between free space 140a and the outer layers 140b may be expressed as Equation <NUM> below when the impedances between free space 140a and the outer layers 140b match each other:
<MAT>.

Similarly, the relationship between the outer layers 140b and the inner layer 140c may be expressed as Equation <NUM> below when the impedances between the outer layers 140b and the inner layer 140c match each other:
<MAT>.

Thus, in some embodiments of the inventive concept, a shroud member structure may be include one or more layers of materials such that the electromagnetic characteristics, i.e., the magnetic permeability and the electrical permittivity, are selected for adjoining materials to match or approximately match impedance characteristics of the medium. It will be understood that although <FIG> illustrates an example of impedance matching in a shroud member embodiment <NUM> based on an A-sandwich shroud member configuration, it will be understood that a shroud member comprising a single monolithic dielectric material may be used or a plurality of layers at least some of which have different electromagnetic characteristics may be used in accordance with different embodiments of the inventive concept.

In accordance with some embodiments of the inventive concept, a radome <NUM> used in a <NUM> NR base station antenna installation in which the base station operates in a frequency range of about <NUM> to about <NUM> may use a dielectric material for the outer layers 140b and a dielectric material for the core layer 140c that each have magnetic permeability and electrical permittivity characteristics configured to reduce reflected energy at the interface of the layers. As described above, a perfect match between the impedance of the core layer 140c and the outer layers 140b results in a reflection coefficient of zero. In some embodiments of the inventive concept, the reflection coefficient between the core layer 140c and the outer layers 140b may result in reflected power at the interface of the core layer 140c with the outer layers 140b of not greater than -<NUM> db (i.e., reflected power between the front outer layer 140b and the core layer 140c is not greater than about -10dB, and reflected power between the rear outer layer 140b and the core layer 140c is not greater than about -<NUM> dB). In some embodiments, an insertion loss associated with the shroud member structure may be less than about -<NUM> dB when the base station operates in a frequency range of about <NUM> to about <NUM>.

In other embodiments of the inventive concept, the radio signals transmitted from a base station may be characterized by a radiation pattern. In some embodiments, when a <NUM> NR base station gNodeB transmits radio signals through a shroud member, such as the A-sandwich shroud member configuration <NUM> shown in <FIG>, the radiation pattern for radio signal transmissions in a frequency range of about <NUM> to about <NUM> may have a half-power beamwidth angle that deviates less than about <NUM>° in some embodiments and less than about <NUM>° in other embodiments relative to the half-power beamwidth angle generated for a radiation pattern through free space without the shroud member <NUM> and may have a max gain of a main lobe that deviates from a max gain of a main lobe generated for the radiation pattern through free space without the shroud member <NUM> by less than about <NUM> dB, in some embodiments by less than about <NUM> dB, and in some embodiments, by about <NUM> dB to about <NUM> dB.

According to some embodiments, a shroud member of the present invention and as disclosed herein comprises a polyvinyl chloride (PVC) substrate. In some embodiments, the PVC substrate alone is the shroud member (i.e., the shroud member itself does not include any additional components or layers). As used herein, "a PVC substrate" or "the PVC substrate" refers to the PVC substrate forming a shroud member (in whole or in part) of the present invention.

Optionally, the shroud member includes a coating (e.g., a film or paint) on a surface of the shroud member, optionally on a surface of the PVC substrate. In some embodiments, a shroud member of the present invention is a PVC substrate that optionally comprises a coating on a surface of the PVC substrate. In some embodiments, a coating is present on at least one surface of a shroud member, optionally wherein the coating is on a surface of the shroud member that is farthest from radiating element of the antenna when installed. The coating may increase the weatherability and/or UV resistance of the shroud member. In some embodiments, the coating comprises a paint such as an acrylic and/or urethane paint.

It will be understood that, in accordance with some embodiments, the PVC substrate may be used alone, without any optional coating or layer supported by the PVC substrate.

The PVC substrate may be unitary. The PVC substrate may comprise one or more (e.g., <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, or more) layers. When the PVC substrate comprises two or more layers, a layer in the PVC substrate may be the same as or different than (e.g., in chemical composition and/or form) another layer in the PVC substrate with at least one layer in the substrate comprising PVC. In some embodiments, the PVC substrate consists of a single layer, which may be a homogeneous material and/or monolithic. In some embodiments, the PVC substrate comprises at least two layers, which may be the same as or different (e.g., have one or more different physical properties) than each other. For example, the PVC substrate may include a first layer comprising a foamed PVC layer and a second layer comprising a PVC sheet, and a surface of the foamed PVC layer may be facing and/or in contact with a surface of the PVC sheet. An adhesive, glue, and/or film may be present between the surfaces of two adjacent layers of a PVC substrate, and the adhesive, glue and/or film may be provided in a continuous pattern or discontinuous pattern between the two layers. In some embodiments, a PVC substrate comprises at least three layers, which may be the same as or different than each other. For example, the PVC substrate may include a first PVC sheet, a foamed PVC layer, and a second PVC sheet, and the foamed PVC layer may be between the first and second PVC sheets.

A "foamed PVC layer" or "PVC foam" or "foamed PVC" as used herein each refer to a foam comprising PVC. In some embodiments, a foamed PVC layer is in the form of a sheet. A foamed PVC layer may be a closed-cell PVC foam and/or an open-cell PVC foam. A foamed PVC layer may have at least one smooth surface. A surface of a foamed PVC layer may be planar. In some embodiments, a foamed PVC layer is curved or arcuate in shape (e.g., semi-cylindrical). In some embodiments, a foamed PVC layer is in tubular form. A foamed PVC layer may be shapeable and/or may be shaped. A foamed PVC layer may have a density of about <NUM>/cm<NUM> to about <NUM>/cm<NUM> or about <NUM>, <NUM>, or <NUM>/cm<NUM> to about <NUM>, <NUM>, or <NUM>/cm<NUM>, optionally as measured in accordance with ASTM D-<NUM>. In some embodiments, a foamed PVC layer has a density of about <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, or <NUM>/cm<NUM>, optionally as measured in accordance with ASTM D-<NUM>. A foamed PVC layer may have a thickness of about <NUM> to about <NUM>, about <NUM> to about <NUM>, or about <NUM> to about <NUM> or <NUM>. In some embodiments, a foamed PVC layer has a thickness of about <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, or <NUM>. A foamed PVC layer may have a flexural strength at yield of about <NUM> MPa to about <NUM> MPa as measured in accordance with ATSM D-<NUM>. In some embodiments, a foamed PVC layer having a thickness of about <NUM> has a flexural strength at yield of about <NUM> MPa as measured in accordance with ATSM D-<NUM>. A foamed PVC layer may have a surface resistance of about <NUM> × <NUM><NUM> Ohms to about <NUM> × <NUM><NUM> Ohms or about <NUM> × <NUM><NUM> Ohms to about <NUM> × <NUM><NUM> Ohms, optionally as measured in accordance with ASTM D-<NUM>.

A "PVC sheet" as used herein refers to a solid PVC layer that is not foamed. A PVC sheet may also be referred to herein as a non-foamed PVC layer. In some embodiments, a PVC sheet is a layer formed from an extruded PVC composition without foaming. A PVC sheet may have at least one smooth surface. The term "PVC sheet" as used herein does not require that the PVC be in planar form. Instead, a PVC sheet may be in any suitable form and/or may be shapeable or shaped. In some embodiments, a surface of a PVC sheet may be planar. In some embodiments, a foamed PVC layer is curved or arcuate in shape (e.g., semi-cylindrical). In some embodiments, a PVC sheet is in tubular form. In some embodiments, a PVC sheet may be a shaped PVC sheet in which at least a portion of the PVC is modified such as curved or molded (e.g., using hot molding and/or cold molding). A PVC sheet may have a density of about <NUM>/cm<NUM> to about <NUM> or <NUM>/cm<NUM>, optionally as measured in accordance with ASTM D-<NUM>. In some embodiments, a PVC sheet has a density of about <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, or <NUM>/cm<NUM>, optionally as measured in accordance with ASTM D-<NUM>. A PVC sheet may have a thickness of about <NUM> to about <NUM>, about <NUM> to about <NUM>, or about <NUM> or <NUM> to about <NUM> or <NUM>. In some embodiments, a PVC sheet has a thickness of about <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, or <NUM>. A PVC sheet may have a flexural strength at yield of about <NUM> MPa to about <NUM> MPa, about <NUM> MPa to about <NUM> MPa, or about <NUM> MPa to <NUM> MPa as measured in accordance with ATSM D-<NUM>. In some embodiments, a PVC sheet having a thickness of about <NUM>, <NUM>, or <NUM> has a flexural strength at yield of about <NUM> MPa as measured in accordance with ATSM D-<NUM>.

In some embodiments, the PVC substrate or shroud member is a multilayer unit including a core that is a foamed PVC layer and a skin layer that is a non-foamed PVC layer, the foamed PVC core layer has a density in the range of from about <NUM>/cm<NUM> to about <NUM>/cm<NUM>, and the non-foamed PVC skin layer has a density in the range of from about <NUM>/cm<NUM> to about <NUM>/cm<NUM>.

In some embodiments, a PVC substrate and/or shroud member has a dielectric constant of about <NUM> to about <NUM>, about <NUM> to about <NUM>, or about <NUM> to about <NUM>. In some embodiments, a PVC substrate and/or shroud member has a dielectric constant of about <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, or <NUM>.

According to some embodiments, impedance of a PVC substrate and/or shroud member may be substantially the same (e.g., within ± <NUM> Ohms) as the impedance of free space.

Insertion loss of a PVC substrate and/or shroud member may be less than about <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, or <NUM> decibels, optionally wherein the insertion loss is measured at a frequency of about <NUM> or about <NUM>. Insertion loss for a PVC substrate and/or shroud member may be measured at incident angle of about -<NUM>° to about +<NUM>°, about -<NUM>° to about +<NUM>°, or about -<NUM>° to about +<NUM>°. In some embodiments, insertion loss for a PVC substrate and/or shroud member is measured at incident angle of about -<NUM>°, -<NUM>°, -<NUM>°, -<NUM>°, -<NUM>°, -<NUM>°, <NUM>°, +<NUM>°, +<NUM>°, +<NUM>°, +<NUM>°, +<NUM>°, or +<NUM>°.

In some embodiments, a PVC substrate has at least one smooth and/or uniform surface. In some embodiments, a PVC substrate has at least one textured surface. A PVC substrate may be chemical and/or fire resistant. In some embodiments, a PVC substrate is self-extinguishing and/or has a classification of B, s2 and/or d0 as defined by European Standard EN <NUM><NUM> and/or a classification of V-<NUM> in accordance with UL <NUM> entitled "Standard for Tests for Flammability of Plastic Materials for Parts in Devices and Appliances". In some embodiments, a PVC substrate complies with ASTM E84-<NUM> entitled "Standard Test Method for Surface Burning Characteristics of Materials. " A PVC substrate (e.g., a multilayered PVC substrate comprising a first PVC sheet, a foamed PVC layer, and a second PVC sheet and the PVC substrate having a thickness of about <NUM>) may have a flame spread of <NUM>, a flame spread index of <NUM>, an area beneath a smoke developed curve of about <NUM>, and/or a smoke developed index of <NUM> as measured in accordance with ASTM E84-<NUM>. A PVC substrate may be thermoformable. A PVC substrate or a surface thereof may be any suitable color such as, white, black, grey, red, blue, yellow, purple, green, etc. and/or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, a PVC substrate is translucent, opaque, or transparent.

A PVC substrate or a portion thereof may be in planar form or in the form of a substantially flat panel. In some embodiments, a PVC substrate or a portion thereof is shaped such that at least a portion is not in planar form. A PVC substrate may be shaped using any suitable method known in the art such as hot molding and/or cold molding. In some embodiments, a shaped PVC substrate may be tubular and/or curved. In some embodiments, a shaped PVC substrate may comprise a portion that is in the form of a hemisphere or semi-cylinder.

A shroud member may be positioned such that a surface of the PVC substrate is within a given distance of a radiating element. In some embodiments, the surface of the PVC substrate facing a radiating element (i.e., the surface of the PVC substrate that is closest to the radiating element) is about <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, or <NUM> to about <NUM>, <NUM>, or <NUM> from the radiating element, optionally with the radiating element transmitting at an angle of incidence of about <NUM>° to about <NUM>° relative to a surface of the shroud member and/or to the surface of the PVC substrate. In some embodiments, the surface of the PVC substrate facing the radiating element is about <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, or <NUM> from the radiating element, optionally with the radiating element transmitting at an angle of incidence of about <NUM>° to about <NUM>° relative to a surface of the shroud member and/or to the surface of the PVC substrate. In some embodiments, the angle of incidence is about <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°, <NUM>°, or <NUM>°. In some embodiments, when the radiating element is transmitting a radio signal at a frequency of about <NUM>, the surface of the PVC substrate facing the radiating element is about <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, or <NUM> to about <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, or <NUM> from the radiating element. In some embodiments, when the radiating element is transmitting a radio signal at a frequency of about <NUM>, the surface of the PVC substrate facing the radiating element is at least about <NUM>. <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, or <NUM> inches from the radiating element. In some embodiments, when the radiating element is transmitting a radio signal at a frequency of about <NUM>, the surface of the PVC substrate facing the radiating element is about <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, or <NUM> to about <NUM>, <NUM>, or <NUM> from the radiating element. In some embodiments, when the radiating element is transmitting a radio signal at a frequency of about <NUM>, the surface of the PVC substrate facing the radiating element is at least about <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, or <NUM> inches from the radiating element.

A shroud member and/or PVC substrate may have a total thickness of about <NUM> to about <NUM>, about <NUM> to about <NUM>, or about <NUM> to about <NUM> or <NUM>. In some embodiments, a shroud member and/or PVC substrate has a thickness of about <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, or <NUM>. A shroud member and/or PVC substrate may have a length and/or width to conceal a radiating element. In some embodiments, a shroud member and/or PVC substrate has a length of about <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, or <NUM> inches to about <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, or <NUM> inches and/or a width of about <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, or <NUM> inches to about <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, or <NUM> inches.

A PVC substrate having a multilayer construction may comprise a first PVC sheet, a foamed PVC layer, and a second PVC sheet with the foamed PVC layer between the first and second PVC sheets. A PVC substrate having a multilayer construction may have a density of about <NUM>/cm<NUM> to about <NUM>/cm<NUM> or about <NUM>/cm<NUM> to about <NUM>/cm<NUM>, optionally as measured in accordance with ASTM D-<NUM>. In some embodiments, a PVC substrate having a multilayer construction has a density of about <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, or <NUM>/cm<NUM>, optionally as measured in accordance with ASTM D-<NUM>. A PVC substrate having a multilayer construction may have a thickness of about <NUM> to about <NUM>, about <NUM> to about <NUM>, or about <NUM> to about <NUM> or <NUM>. In some embodiments, a PVC substrate having a multilayer construction has a thickness of about <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, or <NUM>. A PVC substrate having a multilayer construction may have a flexural modulus of about <NUM> MPa to about <NUM> MPa, about <NUM> MPa to about <NUM> MPa, or about <NUM> MPa to about <NUM> MPa as measured in accordance with ATSM D-<NUM>. In some embodiments, a PVC substrate having a multilayer construction and a thickness of about <NUM> has a flexural modulus of about <NUM> MPa as measured in accordance with ATSM D-<NUM>. A PVC substrate having a multilayer construction may have a Shore D hardness of about <NUM> to about <NUM> or about <NUM> to about <NUM>, optionally as measured in accordance with ASTM D-<NUM>. In some embodiments, a PVC substrate having a multilayer construction has a Shore D hardness of about <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, or <NUM>, optionally as measured in accordance with ASTM D-<NUM>. A PVC substrate having a multilayer construction may have a surface resistance of about <NUM> × <NUM><NUM> Ohms to about <NUM> × <NUM><NUM> Ohms or about <NUM> × <NUM><NUM> Ohms to about <NUM> × <NUM><NUM> Ohms, optionally as measured in accordance with ASTM D-<NUM>.

With reference to <FIG>, a shroud member <NUM> according to some embodiments is shown therein. The shroud member <NUM> may be used as the shroud member <NUM> of <FIG>, or a portion of the shroud member <NUM> through which mmWave <NUM> RF signals are transmitted to one or more of the antennas <NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>, and <NUM>-<NUM> for example.

The shroud member <NUM> includes a PVC substrate having a multilayer construction as described herein. More particularly, the shroud member <NUM> includes a core layer <NUM>, a first or front skin layer <NUM>, and a second or rear skin layer <NUM>. The core layer <NUM> is interposed or sandwiched between the skin layers <NUM> and <NUM> as discussed in more detail below.

In some embodiments, the core layer <NUM> is a foamed PVC layer as described above, and may have the material(s), attributes, properties and constructions discussed above. In some embodiments, the skin layers <NUM>, <NUM> are nonfoamed PVC sheets or layers as described above, and may have the material(s), attributes, properties and constructions discussed above for the nonfoamed PVC sheets.

The shroud member <NUM> has a primary axis A-A. The shroud member <NUM> has a first, or front face <NUM> and an opposing second or rear face <NUM> spaced apart along the primary axis A-A. The shroud member <NUM> includes a peripheral edge <NUM>. In the illustrated embodiment, the shroud member <NUM> is a flat panel, and the shroud member <NUM> and each of its layers <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> are substantially planar and define a heightwise and widthwise plane B-B that is orthogonal to the primary axis A-A.

The shroud member <NUM> includes a target region RT. In the illustrated embodiment, the target region RT may include the entire shroud member <NUM>.

In service, the target region RT is the region of the shroud member <NUM> through which radio signals are intended to be directed. More particularly, in some embodiments the shroud member <NUM> is installed such that it is interposed between an antenna (e.g., the antennas <NUM>-<NUM>, <NUM>-<NUM>, and <NUM>-<NUM> of <FIG>) and intended user equipment (e.g., the user equipment UE 110a-c of <FIG>). In this way, radio signals to and from a radiating element of the antenna travel a path through the target region RT of the shroud member <NUM>. In some embodiments, the antenna is a millimeter-wave <NUM> emitting antenna.

The core layer <NUM> includes a front surface <NUM> and an opposing rear surface <NUM>. In some embodiments, the surfaces <NUM> and <NUM> are each substantially planar and parallel to one another.

The front skin layer <NUM> covers the front surface <NUM> of the core layer <NUM>. The front skin layer <NUM> includes an outer surface <NUM> and an opposing inner surface <NUM>. The outer surface <NUM> faces outward from the core layer <NUM> and the inner surface <NUM> is positioned adjacent the front surface <NUM> of the core layer <NUM>.

In some embodiments, the inner surface <NUM> is disposed in intimate and direct contact with the front surface <NUM>. In some embodiments, the inner surface <NUM> is secured to the front surface <NUM>. In some embodiments, the inner surface <NUM> is bonded to the front surface <NUM>.

In some embodiments, the outer surface <NUM> is exposed and noncovered. In some implementations, the outer surface <NUM> of the front skin layer <NUM> is directly exposed to the environment surrounding the concealment. In some embodiments, the outer surface <NUM> is covered by a coating (e.g., for coloring and/or weather resistance), as discussed herein.

The rear skin layer <NUM> covers the rear surface <NUM>. The rear skin layer <NUM> includes an outer surface <NUM> and an opposing inner surface <NUM>. The outer surface <NUM> faces outward from the core layer <NUM> and the inner surface <NUM> is positioned adjacent the rear surface <NUM> of the core layer <NUM>.

In some embodiments, the inner surface <NUM> is disposed in intimate and direct contact with the rear surface <NUM>. In some embodiments, the inner surface <NUM> is secured to the rear surface <NUM>. In some embodiments, the inner surface <NUM> is bonded to the rear surface <NUM>.

In some embodiments, the outer surface <NUM> is exposed and noncovered. In some embodiments, the installation including the shroud member <NUM> is configured such that no other components (other than air or other gas) are disposed between the radiating element and the target region RT of the outer surface <NUM>.

In some embodiments, the three layers <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> collectively form a unitary structure. In some embodiments, the skin layers <NUM>, <NUM> are secured (and, in some embodiments, bonded) to the core layer <NUM> as discussed above to form the unitary structure.

In some embodiments, the core layer <NUM> is monolithic. In some embodiments, the skin layers <NUM>, <NUM> are each monolithic. In some embodiments, the core layer <NUM> and the skin layers <NUM>, <NUM> are each monolithic.

The layers <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> have thicknesses T1, T2, and T3, respectively (<FIG>). In some embodiments, the thickness T1, T2, and T3 of each layer <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> is substantially uniform throughout the target region RT. In some embodiments, the thicknesses T1, T2, T3 are substantially uniform across the entire height and width of the shroud member <NUM>. In some embodiments, the thickness T1 of the layer <NUM> varies by no more than <NUM> across the target region RT. In some embodiments, the thicknesses T2 and T3 of the layers <NUM> and <NUM> each vary by no more than <NUM> across the target region RT.

In some embodiments, the thickness of the shroud member <NUM> is substantially uniform thickness T4 throughout the target region RT. In some embodiments, the thickness T4 of the shroud member <NUM> is substantially uniform across the entire height and width of the shroud member <NUM>. In some embodiments, the thickness T4 of the shroud member <NUM> varies by no more than <NUM> across the target region.

The shroud member <NUM> may be formed using any suitable technique. In some embodiments, the skin layers <NUM>, <NUM> are extruded onto the core layer <NUM>, which may also be extruded. In some embodiments, one or both of the skin layers <NUM>, <NUM> is/are coextruded with the core layer <NUM>.

In some embodiments, the skin layers <NUM>, <NUM> and the core layer <NUM> each independently have a thickness T1, T2, T3 of about <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, or <NUM>. In some embodiments, a ratio of the thickness T2 of skin layer <NUM> to the thickness T3 of skin layer <NUM> is about <NUM>:<NUM>, <NUM>:<NUM>, or <NUM>:<NUM> (skin layer <NUM> : skin layer <NUM>). In some embodiments, a ratio of the thickness T2 of skin layer <NUM> to the thickness T1 of core layer <NUM> is about <NUM>:<NUM>, <NUM>:<NUM>, <NUM>:<NUM>, <NUM>:<NUM>, <NUM>:<NUM>, <NUM>:<NUM>, <NUM>:<NUM>, <NUM>:<NUM>, <NUM>:<NUM>, <NUM>:<NUM>, or <NUM>:<NUM> (skin layer <NUM> : core layer <NUM>). In some embodiments, a ratio of the thickness of skin layer <NUM> T3 to the thickness of core layer <NUM> T1 is about <NUM>:<NUM>, <NUM>:<NUM>, <NUM>:<NUM>, <NUM>:<NUM>, <NUM>:<NUM>, <NUM>:<NUM>, <NUM>:<NUM>, <NUM>:<NUM>, <NUM>:<NUM>, <NUM>:<NUM>, or <NUM>:<NUM> (skin layer <NUM> : core layer <NUM>).

In some embodiments, the core layer thickness T1 is in the range of from about <NUM> to <NUM>, and each of the skin layer thicknesses T2, T3 is in the range of from about <NUM> to about <NUM>.

The multi-layer construction and geometry of the shroud member <NUM> may provide several benefits. The rigid PVC skin layers <NUM>, <NUM> in combination with the foamed PVC core layer <NUM> exhibit substantially greater strength and rigidity as compared to a foamed PVC core of the same dimensions alone. The multi-layer construction may substantially improve both the bending resistance (stiffness) and the break resistance of the shroud member <NUM>. The multi-layer construction, particularly constructed with dimensions and material properties as described herein, can provide these advantages without significantly or unduly diminishing the RF electrical performance of the shroud member <NUM> as compared to a foamed PVC core without the skin layers <NUM>, <NUM>.

The front skin layer <NUM> may be advantageously formed with a smooth, nontextured finish on its outer surface <NUM>. The smooth finish improves the hydrophobicity of the surface <NUM> and promotes shedding of water from the surface <NUM> as compared to a more textured surface. In some embodiments, the outer system <NUM> of the rear skin layer <NUM> is also formed with a smooth finish. In some embodiments, the surface roughness, smoothness or finish of each surface <NUM>, <NUM> is at least as smooth as Finishing Level <NUM> according to Gypsum Association GA-<NUM>-<NUM> and, in some embodiments, at least as smooth as Finishing Level <NUM>.

The skin layers <NUM>, <NUM> may also provide improved weather resistance. The skin layers <NUM>, <NUM> can provide a better surface for applying a coating for aesthetics (e.g., coloring) and/or weather proofing.

The multi-layer construction of the shroud member <NUM> may facilitate manufacture of the shroud member <NUM>. The skin layers <NUM>, <NUM> may improve the integrity of the shroud member stock material during handling, cutting, forming (e.g., bending), bonding, and/or fastening.

The multi-layer construction of the shroud member <NUM> may also facilitate installation and extend the service life of the shroud member <NUM>. Again, the skin layers <NUM>, <NUM> may improve the integrity of the shroud member stock material during handling, cutting, forming (e.g., bending), bonding, and/or fastening during the installation procedure.

In some embodiments, the shroud member <NUM> is constructed as follows:.

In some embodiments, the shroud member <NUM> constructed as described immediately above includes only the three structural layers <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, without a fourth structural layer or coating.

In alternative embodiments, the shroud member <NUM> constructed as described immediately above includes the three structural layers <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> and also a coating on the outer face <NUM> of the front skin layer <NUM> and/or a coating on the outer face <NUM> of the rear skin layer <NUM>, without a fourth structural layer. The coating may provide UV resistance and/or color.

In alternative embodiments, the shroud member <NUM> is constructed as described immediately above, except that the shroud member <NUM> includes only the core layer <NUM> and the front skin layer <NUM>, without the rear skin layer <NUM> or any additional structural layer. In some embodiments, this construction of the shroud member <NUM> includes a coating on the outer face <NUM> of the front skin layer <NUM>.

In some embodiments of each of the embodiments described immediately above, the thicknesses T1, T2, T3 are substantially uniform across the entire height and width of the shroud member <NUM>. In some embodiments, the thickness T1 of the core layer <NUM> varies by no more than <NUM> across the target region RT. In some embodiments, the thicknesses T2 and T3 of the skin layers <NUM> and <NUM> each vary by no more than <NUM> across the target region RT.

In some embodiments of each of the embodiments described immediately above, the core layer <NUM> and the skin layers <NUM>, <NUM> are each monolithic. In some embodiments, the core layer <NUM> and the skin layers <NUM>, <NUM> are each homogeneous.

In some embodiments of each of the embodiments described immediately above, the shroud member <NUM> has a dielectric constant in the range of from about <NUM> to about <NUM>.

With reference to <FIG>, a wireless communication equipment installation <NUM> according to some embodiments is shown therein. The installation <NUM> includes a concealment system <NUM> and wireless equipment <NUM>.

The wireless equipment <NUM> includes one or more antennas <NUM>. In some embodiments and as illustrated, the antenna <NUM> forms a part of an integrated radio/antenna unit <NUM> that includes both the antenna <NUM> and a radio <NUM>. In other embodiments, the radio <NUM> may connected to the antenna <NUM> but located remotely from the antenna <NUM>. The antenna <NUM> includes a radiating element <NUM>. It will be appreciated that the radio/antenna unit <NUM> may include multiple antennas <NUM>, and each antenna <NUM> may include multiple RF radiating elements <NUM>.

The antenna <NUM> is configured to emit radio (RF energy) signals from the radiating element <NUM> in a forward direction DE. The radio signals are generated by the radio <NUM>. In some embodiments, the radio <NUM> and the antenna <NUM> are configured to (and, in operation do) emit millimeter-wave <NUM> radio communication signals via the radiating element <NUM>.

The concealment system <NUM> includes a base concealment member <NUM>, a support structure <NUM>, a shroud assembly <NUM>, and an antenna mounting system <NUM>.

In the illustrated embodiment, the base concealment member <NUM> is a flat panel and will be referred to hereinafter as the base panel <NUM>. The base panel <NUM> may serve as an aesthetic visual barrier. The base panel <NUM> may be mounted on a building or other structure to conceal the wireless equipment <NUM> as well as other wireless equipment. The base panel <NUM> may be supported on the building or other structure by the support structure <NUM>. Additional concealment members <NUM>' may be positioned and secured adjacent the base concealment member <NUM>.

The base panel <NUM> has a front face 342A and an opposing rear face 342B. A window or aperture <NUM> is defined in the base panel <NUM> by a surrounding aperture sidewall 346A. A front aperture edge <NUM> is defined at the intersection the aperture wall 346A and the front face 342A.

The shroud assembly <NUM> includes a shroud member <NUM> and a shroud mounting system <NUM>.

The shroud member <NUM> is constructed as described above for the shroud member <NUM>. Accordingly, the disclosure herein regarding the shroud member <NUM> and shroud members according to embodiments of the invention generally likewise applies to the shroud member <NUM>. The shroud member <NUM> includes a front face <NUM> (corresponding to the front face <NUM>), a rear face <NUM> (corresponding to the rear face <NUM>), and a peripheral edge <NUM> (corresponding to the peripheral edge <NUM>).

The shroud mounting system <NUM> includes a frame <NUM>. The frame <NUM> includes a subframe <NUM> and a flange plate <NUM>. The subframe <NUM> may be formed of one or more tubular members that are joined or bent into the shape illustrated. The subframe <NUM> defines an opening 354A. The subframe <NUM> has a front face 354B and an opposing rear face 354C. The flange plate <NUM> defines an opening 356A. The flange plate <NUM> is affixed to the rear face 354C such that the openings 354A, 356A are aligned. The flange plate <NUM> may be affixed to the rear face 354C by adhesive, solder, welding, fasteners or any other suitable method. In other embodiments, the frame <NUM> may be formed as a stamped member including features of both the subframe <NUM> and the flange plate <NUM>.

The shroud member <NUM> is affixed to the front face 354B of the subframe <NUM>. The shroud member <NUM> may be affixed to the front face 354B using any suitable technique. For example, in some embodiments, the shroud member <NUM> is secured to the front face 354B by adhesive <NUM> that bonds peripheral portions 304A of the rear face <NUM> to the front face 354B.

The shroud member <NUM> is aligned with the openings 354A, 356A such that the target region RT of the shroud member <NUM> spans the openings 354A, 356A. In some embodiments and as shown, the shroud member <NUM> fully covers the openings 354A, 356A.

In the installation, the frame <NUM> is seated in the aperture <NUM> such that the flange plate <NUM> overlaps portions of the rear face 342B surrounding the aperture <NUM>, and the subframe <NUM> is seated in the aperture <NUM>. The frame <NUM> is secured in the aperture <NUM>. For example, the flange plate <NUM> may be bonded to the rear face 342B by adhesive <NUM>.

In some embodiments and as illustrated, when the shroud assembly <NUM> is installed in the base panel <NUM> as described, the front face <NUM> of the shroud member <NUM> is positioned substantially coplanar with the front face 342A of the base panel <NUM>.

The antenna mounting system <NUM> includes coupling brackets <NUM>, a rail <NUM>, and an antenna bracket <NUM>. The coupling brackets <NUM> are secured (e.g., by fasteners or welding) to the frame <NUM>. The rail <NUM> is mounted on the coupling brackets <NUM>. The antenna bracket <NUM> is in turn adjustably mounted on the rail <NUM>. The radio/antenna unit <NUM> is mounted on the antenna bracket <NUM>. The antenna <NUM> is mounted and positioned such that the radiating element <NUM> emits radio signals in the forward direction DE through the target region RT.

In some embodiments, the radiating element <NUM> of the antenna <NUM> is spaced apart from the shroud member <NUM>. In some embodiments, the radiating element <NUM> is spaced apart from the shroud member <NUM> a distance D3 (<FIG>) in the range of from about <NUM> to <NUM>.

The antenna mounting system <NUM> may be configured to permit a user to adjust the position of the antenna <NUM> relative to the aperture <NUM>. The antenna mounting system may be configured to permit the user to adjust the distance between the antenna <NUM> and the shroud member <NUM>.

In some embodiments, the base concealment member <NUM> is formed of a material that is thicker than, denser than, has a higher dielectric constant than, and/or has a greater flexural strength than the material of the shroud member <NUM>. In some embodiments, the concealment member <NUM> is formed of a material that is stronger than the material of the shroud member <NUM>.

In some embodiments, the base concealment member <NUM> is formed of fiberglass reinforced polymer (FRP). In some embodiments, the base concealment member <NUM> is formed of FRP, plastic, a plastic and foam composite sandwich, or other composite material.

In some embodiments, the shroud member <NUM> is mounted in the base panel <NUM> in the field (i.e., instead of in a factory). In some embodiments, the shroud member <NUM> is retrofitted into an existing base panel <NUM> that is already in service. In this case, the installer will cut the aperture <NUM> into the base panel <NUM>. The installer will then install the shroud assembly <NUM> in the aperture <NUM> as described above.

The subframe <NUM> and the flange plate <NUM> may be formed of any suitable materials. In some embodiments, the subframe <NUM> and the flange plate <NUM> are formed of FRP.

In some embodiments, the width and height dimensions of the shroud member <NUM> are substantially the same as or slightly less than the width and height of the aperture so that the shroud member <NUM> substantially completely fills the aperture <NUM>.

In some embodiments, neither the width nor height of the shroud member <NUM> exceeds <NUM> inches. In some embodiments, the width W5 and height H5 of the shroud member <NUM> is in the range of from about <NUM> to <NUM> inches (<FIG>). In some embodiments, the height H5 of the shroud member <NUM> is in the range of from about <NUM> to <NUM> inches. In some embodiments, the area of the front surface <NUM> is in the range of from about <NUM> square inches to <NUM> square inches.

In some embodiments and as illustrated, the material of the base panel <NUM> fully surrounds the perimeter of the shroud member <NUM>.

The concealment system <NUM> and associated methods can enable an installer to obtain the benefits of a shroud member constructed as described herein while maintaining the aesthetic and structural strength advantages of a conventional base concealment member. The shroud member <NUM> may be structurally weak as compared to the base panel <NUM>. Additionally, the relatively weak shroud member <NUM> may require good support and may not be suitable to span large distances or areas without support. In the concealment system <NUM>, the area of the shroud member <NUM> can be limited to the area through which radio signals are intended to be transmitted. The shroud member <NUM> is supported by the frame <NUM> and the base panel <NUM>. Other than the aperture <NUM>, the base panel <NUM> can be constructed and used in a known manner. The shroud assembly <NUM> can be incorporated into the base panel <NUM> with little detrimental effect on the appearance or structural integrity of the base panel <NUM>.

The wireless equipment <NUM> includes a plurality (three) of circumferentially distributed integrated radio/antenna units <NUM>. Each radio/antenna unit <NUM> includes an antenna <NUM>. Each antenna <NUM> includes a radiating element <NUM>. It will be appreciated that each radio/antenna unit <NUM> may include multiple antennas <NUM>, and each antenna <NUM> may include multiple RF radiating elements <NUM>. While <FIG> show integrated radio/antenna units <NUM>, in other embodiments the radios <NUM> may connected to the antennas <NUM> but located remotely from the antennas <NUM>.

Each antenna <NUM> is configured to emit radio (RF energy) signals from its radiating element <NUM> in a respective forward direction DE. The radio signals are generated by the associated radios <NUM>. In some embodiments, the radios <NUM> and the antennas <NUM> are configured to (and, in operation do) emit millimeter-wave <NUM> radio communication signals via the radiating elements <NUM>.

The installation <NUM> may be mounted on a suitable support such as a pole <NUM>. For example, the pole <NUM> may be a monopole that also supports other wireless communication equipment. For example, the pole <NUM> may also support a <NUM> band antenna <NUM> and associated <NUM> band radios <NUM> (<FIG>). The pole <NUM> may also serve an additional function, such as a light pole.

The concealment system <NUM> includes a shroud assembly <NUM> and an antenna mounting system <NUM>.

The shroud assembly <NUM> includes a shroud support system <NUM> and a shroud subassembly <NUM>.

The shroud subassembly <NUM> includes a shroud member <NUM>, reinforcement bands <NUM>, a seam trim strip <NUM>, and adhesive <NUM>.

The shroud member <NUM> is constructed as described above for the shroud member <NUM>, except that the shroud member <NUM> is tubular and cylindrically shaped. Accordingly, the disclosure herein regarding the shroud member <NUM> and shroud members according to embodiments of the invention generally likewise applies to the shroud member <NUM>.

The shroud member <NUM> has a curved front face <NUM> (<FIG>; corresponding to the front face <NUM>) and a curved rear face <NUM> (corresponding to the rear face <NUM>). The shroud member <NUM> is bent such that opposed side edges 406A (<FIG>) thereof meet or are disposed closely adjacent to form a seam <NUM>. The seam trim strip <NUM> is a fixed to the rear face <NUM> on either side of the seam <NUM> to secure the side edges 406A together. The reinforcement bands <NUM> are secured to the rear face <NUM> adjacent the top and bottom edges of the shroud member <NUM> by adhesive, for example.

The shroud support system <NUM> includes one or more shroud support frames or brackets <NUM> secured to the pole <NUM>, for example. The shroud subassembly <NUM> is mounted on the shroud support brackets <NUM>. The shroud support system <NUM> may further includes an end cap <NUM> (<FIG>) or other component mounted in the top of the shroud subassembly <NUM>.

The antenna mount system <NUM> may include one or more brackets <NUM> (<FIG>) that secure the radio/antenna units <NUM> (and thereby the antennas <NUM>) to the pole <NUM> such that the antennas <NUM> face radially outwardly from the pole <NUM>.

When the antennas <NUM> and the shroud subassembly <NUM> are installed as shown in <FIG>, <FIG> and <FIG>, the radiating elements <NUM> of the respective antennas <NUM> are oriented such that they will emit or radiate RF wave signals (e.g., millimeter-wave <NUM> signals) in respective radially outward direction DE. These RF signals are directed radially outwardly through the target region RT of the shroud member <NUM>. In this embodiment, the target region RT of the shroud member <NUM> may extend approximately <NUM> degrees about the pole <NUM>.

In some embodiments, the radiating element <NUM> of each antenna <NUM> is spaced apart from the shroud member <NUM>. In some embodiments, the radiating element <NUM> of each antenna <NUM> is spaced apart from the shroud member <NUM> a distance D4 (<FIG>) in the range of from about <NUM> to <NUM>.

The shroud assembly <NUM>, including the shroud member <NUM>, may be formed using any suitable technique. In some embodiments, the shroud member <NUM> is formed into the cylindrical shape using the following method. The shroud member <NUM> is first formed as a substantially flat panel as shown and described for the shroud member <NUM>. The flat panel is then cold formed into the cylindrical, tubular shape. By cold formed, it is meant that the flat panel is mechanically bent into the final shape without application of heat sufficient to melt or make the material of the flat-panel molten. In this manner, the flat panel is formed into the shape of the shroud member <NUM> without unduly altering the thickness of the shroud member material. In particular, the uniformity of the thickness of the material across the target region RT is maintained.

In some embodiments, the height H6 (<FIG>) of the shroud member <NUM> is in the range of from about <NUM> to <NUM> inches. In some embodiments, the outer diameter D6 of the shroud member <NUM> is in the range of from about <NUM> to <NUM> inches.

With reference to <FIG>, a shroud subassembly <NUM> according to further embodiments is shown therein. The shroud subassembly <NUM> may be used in place of the shroud subassembly <NUM>, for example. The shroud subassembly <NUM> differs from the shroud subassembly <NUM> in that the shroud subassembly <NUM> has a faceted configuration.

The shroud subassembly <NUM> includes two shroud members <NUM>, reinforcement bands <NUM>, coupling tabs <NUM> and coupling slots <NUM>.

The shroud members <NUM> are constructed as described above for the shroud member <NUM>, except as discussed below. Accordingly, the disclosure herein regarding the shroud member <NUM> and shroud members according to embodiments of the invention generally likewise applies to the shroud members <NUM>.

Each shroud member <NUM> includes a core layer <NUM>, a front skin layer <NUM>, and a rear skin layer <NUM> corresponding to the layers <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM>, respectively. Each shroud member <NUM> has a front face <NUM>, a rear face <NUM>, and opposed side edges 506A and 506B. Circumferentially distributed, longitudinally or axially extending grooves <NUM> are defined in the rear face <NUM> of each shroud member <NUM>. An axially extending bend or corner <NUM> is defined at each groove <NUM>. Circumferentially distributed, axially extending facets <NUM> (substantially planar outward facing surfaces) are defined between each corner <NUM>. In some embodiments, each facet <NUM> is substantially planar.

A series of the coupling tabs <NUM> are provided along the side edge 506A of each shroud member <NUM>. A series of the coupling slots <NUM> are provided along the side edge 506B of each shroud member <NUM>. The shroud members <NUM> are mounted in overlapping edge to edge alignment with the tabs <NUM> of each shroud member <NUM> interlocked with the slots <NUM> of the other shroud member <NUM>. The shroud members <NUM> are thereby combined to form a tubular, faceted structure.

Each shroud member <NUM> may be formed using any suitable technique. In some embodiments, each shroud member <NUM> is formed into the faceted shape using the following method. The shroud member is first formed as a substantially flat panel <NUM>' as shown and described for the shroud member <NUM>. The grooves <NUM> are then mechanically formed in the flat panel <NUM>' as shown in <FIG> and <FIG>. In some embodiments, the grooves <NUM> are formed in the rear surface of the flat panel <NUM>'. In some embodiments, the grooves <NUM> are formed through the rear skin layer <NUM>.

The flat panel <NUM>' is then then cold formed into the faceted, semi-tubular shape of <FIG>. By "cold formed", it is meant that the flat-panel is mechanically bent into the final shape without application of heat sufficient to melt or make the material of the flat panel molten. In this manner, the flat panel <NUM>' is formed into the shape of the shroud member <NUM> without unduly altering the thickness of the shroud member material. In particular, the uniformity of the thickness of the material across the target region RT (other than in the grooves <NUM>) is maintained. In some embodiments, the seams are heat bended.

In some embodiments, the total number of facets <NUM> in the shroud member <NUM> is in the range of from about <NUM> to <NUM>. In some embodiments, each facet <NUM> has a width W7 (<FIG>) in the range of from about <NUM> to <NUM> inches. In some embodiments, the bend angle between adjacent facets <NUM> is in the range of from about <NUM> to <NUM> degrees.

In accordance with some embodiments, each of the shroud members and concealment systems as disclosed herein is used with an antenna having a radiating element that emits radio signals having a frequency in a range of <NUM> - <NUM> through the shroud member or the shroud member forming a part of the concealment system.

The wireless equipment <NUM> is constructed and operates in the same manner as described above for the wireless communication equipment installation <NUM> (<FIG>). Like numbers are used to denote the same elements in the drawings.

The concealment system <NUM> includes a base concealment member <NUM>, adjacent additional concealment members <NUM>', a support structure <NUM>, a shroud assembly <NUM>, and an antenna mounting system <NUM> corresponding generally to the base concealment member <NUM>, the concealment members <NUM>', the support structure <NUM>, the shroud assembly <NUM>, and the antenna mounting system <NUM>, respectively, except as discussed below. The concealment system <NUM> further includes an environmental protection enclosure or rain hood <NUM>.

The base panel <NUM> has a front face 642A, an opposing rear face 642B, and a window or aperture <NUM> corresponding to the front face 342A, opposing rear face 342B, and aperture <NUM>.

The shroud member <NUM> is constructed as described above for the shroud member <NUM>. Accordingly, the disclosure herein regarding the shroud member <NUM> and shroud members according to embodiments of the invention generally likewise applies to the shroud member <NUM>. The shroud member <NUM> includes a front face <NUM> (corresponding to the front face <NUM>), and a rear face <NUM> (corresponding to the rear face <NUM>).

The shroud mounting system <NUM> includes a frame <NUM>, a backing member <NUM>, and fasteners <NUM>.

The frame <NUM> defines an opening 652A. The shroud member <NUM> is affixed to the frame <NUM> and completely fills the opening 652A. The shroud member <NUM> may be affixed to the frame <NUM> using any suitable technique. For example, in some embodiments, the shroud member <NUM> is secured to the frame <NUM> by adhesive that bonds peripheral portions of the shroud member front face <NUM> to the rear face of the frame <NUM>. The frame <NUM> may be formed of any suitable material. In some embodiments, the frame <NUM> is formed of fiberglass reinforced plastic (FRP).

The backing member <NUM> defines an opening 654A. The backing member <NUM> may be formed of any suitable material. In some embodiments, the backing member <NUM> is formed of fiberglass reinforced plastic (FRP).

The rain hood <NUM> includes a horizontally extending roof portion <NUM>, and opposed, vertically extending side portions. In some embodiments, the rain hood <NUM> is unitary. The rain hood <NUM> defines a vertical axis V-V, a horizontal axis H-H, and a depthwise axis D-D (perpendicular to the axes V-V and H-H).

The roof portion <NUM> includes a horizontally extending main wall 682A, a vertically extending front mounting flange 682B, and a vertically extending, downturned, rear lip or wall 682C.

Each side portion <NUM> includes a vertically extending main wall 684A, a front mounting flange 684B, and a rear lip or wall 684C.

The roof portion <NUM> spans the distance between the top ends of the side portions <NUM> and further includes opposed overhang sections 682D that project laterally outwardly beyond the side portions <NUM>.

The main walls 682A, 684A and the rear walls 682C, 684C define a rain hood chamber or cavity <NUM>. The mount flanges 682B, 684B define a front opening 686A and the rear walls 682C, 684C define a rear opening 686B. Each of these openings 686A, 686B communicate with the cavity <NUM>.

In some embodiments, the rain hood cavity <NUM> has a depth D9 (<FIG>) in the range of from about <NUM> inches to <NUM> inches.

The rain hood <NUM> may be formed of any suitable material(s). In some embodiments, the rain hood <NUM> is formed of a polymeric material. In some embodiments, the rain hood <NUM> is formed of formed (e.g., molded) or extruded plastic (e.g., ABS). The rain hood <NUM> may be formed as a single piece or assembled from multiple pieces. In some embodiments and as illustrated, the roof portion <NUM> and the side portions <NUM> are each formed as Z-shaped members that are secured to one another by fasteners and/or bonding.

In the installation, the frame <NUM> is secured to the base panel front face 642A, the rain hood <NUM> is affixed to the rear face 642B of the base panel <NUM>, and the backing member <NUM> is interposed between the rain hood <NUM> and the base panel <NUM>. The components <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> may be secured in this manner using fasteners <NUM> and/or adhesive, for example. The backing member <NUM> can serve to reinforce the base panel <NUM>, particularly in the case of a relatively thin base panel <NUM>. However, in other embodiments, the backing member <NUM> may be omitted.

The frame <NUM> is mounted about the aperture <NUM> such that the shroud member <NUM> covers and is aligned with the aperture <NUM>. The front opening 686A of the rain hood <NUM> is likewise aligned with the aperture <NUM>. The target region RT of the shroud <NUM> is thereby aligned with the aperture <NUM> and the rain hood front opening 686A.

In will be appreciated that the base panel <NUM>, the shroud assembly <NUM>, and the rain hood <NUM> define an antenna chamber <NUM> (<FIG>). The antenna chamber <NUM> is bounded by the shroud member <NUM>, the main walls 682A, 684A, and the rear walls 682C, 684C.

The antenna <NUM> is mounted in alignment with target region RT of the shroud <NUM> using the antenna mounting system <NUM>, as discussed above with regard to the installation <NUM>, for example. The antenna <NUM> is positioned and disposed in the antenna chamber <NUM> (see, e.g., <FIG> and <FIG>). The antenna <NUM> and, in particular, the front face <NUM> of the antenna <NUM>, is positioned underneath the roof portion <NUM> and between the rear walls 682C, 684C and the shroud member <NUM>. In some embodiments, the depth D9 (<FIG>) of the rain hood cavity <NUM> is great enough to ensure that the entirety of the antenna <NUM> is positioned beneath the rain hood <NUM>.

The antenna <NUM> and the front face <NUM> thereof are thereby partially surrounded by or enveloped in the rain hood <NUM>. The concealment system <NUM>, and in particular the rain hood <NUM>, serves to prevent or inhibit rain water from contacting and collecting on the front face <NUM> of the antenna <NUM> and/or on the rear face <NUM> of the shroud member <NUM> in the target region RT. It has been found that water (e.g., rain water) on these surfaces and in the path of mm-wave <NUM> radio signals can be very detrimental to the signal properties of the mm-wave <NUM> radio signals.

The main walls 682A, 684A serve to shield the antenna <NUM> and shroud rear face <NUM> from downwardly and horizontally driven rain. The rear walls 682C, 684C serve to shield the antenna <NUM> and rear shroud face <NUM>, and also serve as drip edges to direct water away from the antenna <NUM>. In some embodiments (not show), the concealment system <NUM> includes a rear cover that covers part or all of the rear opening 686B of the rain hood <NUM>.

The shroud assembly <NUM> and the rain hood <NUM> can be mounted in an existing base panel <NUM> in the field (e.g., retro-fitted onsite). For example, an aperture <NUM> can be cut into an existing screen wall <NUM> and the shroud assembly <NUM> and the rain hood <NUM> can be installed as described. In other embodiments, the shroud assembly <NUM> and the rain hood <NUM> can be mounted in a base panel <NUM> in a factory and provided to a customer or installer as a prefabricated unit. In other embodiments, the shroud assembly <NUM> and the rain hood <NUM> can be mounted in a base panel <NUM> in a factory, the base panel <NUM> can be incorporated into a larger shield assembly or kit (e.g., including the base panels <NUM>' and the support structure <NUM>) and provided to a customer or installer as a prefabricated concealment unit or kit.

As described above with respect to <FIG>, a shroud member may be configured for improved electrical or radio signal transmission by adjusting the thickness of a core dielectric layer and/or by matching the impedances of the various layers comprising the shroud member with each other and/or free space. Other factors may be considered, however, when configuring a shroud member, such as structural rigidity for environmental protection, thermal performance, e.g., the ability to evacuate heat generated by the electronics associated with the antenna system, and the like. Thus, in some embodiments of the inventive concept, the thickness of a core dielectric layer may be increased to improve structural integrity for some applications or may be decreased to improve thermal performance in evacuating heat.

Many alternative prescribed or selected constructions, materials, properties, and attributes of the shroud members and shrouds have been described herein. It will be appreciated that each of these alternatives are applicable to each of the embodiments described, and may be combined in any suitable combination. For example, each of the shroud members <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> can have a single layer construction, have a multilayer construction (e.g., a core layer with only one skin layer or both front and rear skin layers), include a foamed PVC layer with or without a nonfoamed PVC skin layer or layers, include a coating, have any electrical properties as described above (e.g., dielectric constant, impedance, insertion loss, surface resistance) or combinations thereof, have any chemical properties, compositions and formulations as described above or combinations thereof, and have any properties or dimensions (e.g., thicknesses, densities, textures, hardness, flexural strength, etc.) as described above or combinations thereof.

In the above-description of various embodiments of the present disclosure, it is to be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the invention. It will be further understood that terms, such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries, should be interpreted as having a meaning that is consistent with their meaning in the context of this specification and the relevant art and will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense expressly so defined herein.

The flowchart and block diagrams in the figures illustrate the architecture, functionality, and operation of possible implementations of systems, methods, and computer program products according to various aspects of the present disclosure.

Like reference numbers signify like elements throughout the description of the figures.

Claim 1:
A concealment system (<NUM>, <NUM>) for wireless communication equipment, the wireless communication equipment including a radiating element (<NUM>), the concealment system comprising:
a base concealment member (<NUM>, <NUM>);
an aperture (<NUM>, <NUM>) defined in the base concealment member;
a shroud member (<NUM>, <NUM>) mounted in or over the aperture; and
a shroud mounting system (<NUM>, <NUM>) configured to secure the shroud member to the base concealment member;
wherein:
the concealment system is configured to be installed relative to the radiating element such that radio signals emitted from the radiating element are directed primarily through the aperture and the shroud member;
the base concealment member is formed of a first material;
the shroud member is formed of a second material that is different from the first material;
the second material is less attenuating of the radio signals emitted from the radiating element than the first material;
the shroud mounting system includes a frame (<NUM>, <NUM>);
the shroud member is mounted on the frame; and
the frame is configured to be secured to the base concealment member adjacent the aperture to position the shroud member in or over the aperture.