Patent Description:
Architectural-structure coverings for architectural openings and/or structures, such as windows, doors, archways, portions of a wall, and the like (collectively an architectural structure without the intent to limit), have taken numerous forms for many years. One known architectural-structure covering includes a covering or covering portion (used interchangeably herein without the intent to limit) such as a fabric that is movable between an extended position and a retracted position. For example, the covering can be moved between an extended position and a retracted position for obscuring and exposing the underlying architectural structure.

To move the covering between the extended and retracted positions, some architectural-structure coverings include a rotatable member (e.g., a rod or a roller). Rotation of the rotatable member in a first direction may retract the covering while rotation of the rotatable member in a second, opposite direction may extend the covering. The covering of the architectural-structure covering may be gathered or stacked adjacent to, or wrapped around, the rotatable member. For example, some retractable coverings include a plurality of folds that are raised or lowered as lift cords are wrapped about or unwrapped from the rotatable member. The lift cords may be coupled to the rotatable member, pass through or along the covering, and may be coupled to, for example, a bottom rail. Thereafter, rotation of the rotatable member in a first direction wraps the lift cords about the rotatable member causing the covering to retract adjacent to the rotatable member while rotation in a second direction causes the lift cords to unwrap about the rotatable member causing the covering to move in an extended configuration. Alternatively, in various embodiments, the covering may be wrapped around the rotatable member in the retracted position. For example, some retractable coverings include a flexible covering suspended from the rotatable member. The covering can either be wrapped about the rotatable member to retract the covering or unwrapped from the rotatable member to extend the covering. Regardless of the form of the covering, rotation of the rotatable member generally causes movement of the covering of the architectural-structure covering.

The architectural-structure covering may also include an operating system to, for example, actuate movement of the rotatable member, and thus the covering of the architectural-structure covering. The operating system may be any suitable operating system now known or hereafter developed. For example, in some embodiments, the operating system is operatively associated with an operating element such as, for example, a cord, a chain, a tilt wand, or the like. The operating element may be manipulated by a human operator to move the covering between the extended and retracted positions. Alternatively, the operating system may include a motorized controller to lower or raise the covering. For example, a motorized drive motor (e.g., an electric motor) can be provided to move the covering between the extended position and the retracted position. In one embodiment, the operating element may include a hand-held remote or the like. In alternate embodiments, the covering may be moved by gripping and manipulating the bottom rail of the architectural-structure covering.

Use of architectural-structure coverings in, for example, homes, restaurants, businesses, and other buildings has become prevalent. During evening hours and/or during, for example, hosting events, it may be beneficial to employ the architectural-structure covering to provide one or more aesthetic effects. For example, it would be beneficial to enable the architectural-structure coverings to be illuminated, to provide lighting such as, for example, diffused-lighting effects, mood lighting, etc. <CIT> discloses a retractable lighting fixture having a retractable LED lighting layer.

It is with respect to these and other considerations that the features and/or aspects of the present disclosure may be useful.

This Summary is provided to introduce in a simplified form, a selection of concepts that are further described below in the Detailed Description.

Disclosed herein is a lighted architectural-structure covering. The architectural-structure covering includes a first covering movable between an extended position and a retracted position, a second covering movable between an extended position and a retracted position, and a light source for emitting light onto at least a portion of the architectural-structure covering.

In one example of an embodiment, the light source is arranged and configured to direct light onto the second covering, which is arranged and configured to reflect, redistribute, etc. the received light towards an interior space of a room in which the architectural-structure covering is located.

Additionally, and/or alternatively, in one example embodiment, the architectural-structure covering may also include a reflector on which light is directed, shone, received, etc. from the light source and for directing the light towards the second, reflective covering. The reflector including a reflective surface positioned adjacent to the light source for directing the received light towards the second, reflective covering. The reflector may be positioned within a headrail.

Additionally, and/or alternatively, in one example embodiment, the first and second coverings are separately and independently movable between their respective extended and retracted positions so that a position of the first and second coverings are separately and independently positionable.

Additionally, and/or alternatively, in one example embodiment, the first and second coverings are arranged and configured to move in unison (e.g., simultaneously at the same time and/or to the same extent).

Additionally, and/or alternatively, in one example embodiment, the architectural-structure covering is arranged and configured to distribute light across a cross-sectional area of an exposed portion of said second, reflective covering. That is, when the second, reflective covering is partially extended, the light source is arranged and configured to illuminate only the partially exposed portion of the second, reflective covering. Thus arranged, the architectural-structure covering is arranged and configured to enable a user to view portions of an underlying structure not covered by said first and second coverings.

The architectural-structure covering includes a diffusing layer. The diffusing layer is positioned in-between the second, reflective covering and the first covering (e.g., aesthetic front covering) to diffuse, scatter, or soften the light reflective from the second, reflective covering prior to passing through the first covering.

In one embodiment, the light diffusing layer may be arranged and configured as a flexible material so that the diffusing layer can be extended and retracted such as, for example, wrappable and unwrappable about a rotatable member. In one embodiment, the rear, support, or back sheet of the first covering may be arranged and configured as the intermediate diffusing layer. As such, the intermediate diffusing layer may be integrated into the first covering. Alternatively, in another embodiment, the diffusing layer may be coupled to the first covering such as, for example, adhered or laminated thereto. In another embodiment, the diffusing layer may be positioned coplanar with the first covering (e.g., separate from the first covering but extendable and retractable with the first covering).

Alternatively, in one embodiment, the diffusing layer may be a separate covering, layer, sheet, or surface and may be arranged and configured to be wrapped around the same rotatable member as the second, reflective covering. For example, the second, reflective covering may include a front or first sheet and a rear or second sheet. The rear or second sheet is arranged and configured as the reflective covering. The front or first sheet is arranged and configured as the intermediate diffusing layer (e.g., the front or first sheet of the second covering is arranged and configured as an intermediate diffusing layer positioned between the rear reflective sheet of the second covering and the front or first covering). The light source and reflector may be positioned between the intermediate diffusing layer and the rear reflective sheet.

Alternatively, in one embodiment, the architectural-structure covering may include a dual-rotor unit arranged and configured with an inner roller and an outer roller for coupling to the front covering (e.g., diffusing layer) and the reflective covering, respectively.

The drawings are merely representations, not intended to portray specific parameters of the disclosure. The drawings are intended to depict exemplary embodiments of the disclosure, and therefore are not be considered as limiting in scope. In the drawings, like numbering represents like elements.

Various features, aspects, or the like of an architectural-structure covering including a light source will now be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which one or more aspects of the architectural-structure covering will be shown and described. It should be appreciated that the various features, aspects, or the like may be used independently of, or in combination, with each other. It will be appreciated that the architectural-structure covering as disclosed herein may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as being limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will convey certain illustrations of aspects of the architectural-structure covering to those skilled in the art. In the drawings, like numbers refer to like elements throughout unless otherwise noted.

It should be understood that, as described herein, an "embodiment" (such as illustrated in the accompanying Figures) may refer to an illustrative representation of an environment or article or component in which a disclosed concept or feature may be provided or embodied, or to the representation of a manner in which just the concept or feature may be provided or embodied. However, such illustrated embodiments are to be understood as examples (unless otherwise stated), and other manners of embodying the described concepts or features, such as may be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art upon learning the concepts or features from the present disclosure, are within the scope of the disclosure. In addition, it will be appreciated that while the Figures may show one or more embodiments of concepts or features together in a single embodiment of an environment, article, or component incorporating such concepts or features, such concepts or features are to be understood (unless otherwise specified) as independent of and separate from one another and are shown together for the sake of convenience and without intent to limit to being present or used together. For instance, features illustrated or described as part of one embodiment can be used separately, or with another embodiment to yield a still further embodiment. Thus, it is intended that the present subject matter covers such modifications and variations as come within the scope of the appended claims.

As will be described in greater detail below, an architectural-structure covering according to the present disclosure includes a light source arranged and configured to illuminate at least a portion of the architectural-structure covering. In accordance with one aspect of the present disclosure, the light source is arranged and configured to direct light onto a second covering, which may be arranged and configured to reflect the received light.

Referring to <FIG>, an example of an embodiment of an architectural-structure covering <NUM> in accordance with the present disclosure is illustrated. The architectural-structure covering <NUM> includes a first covering <NUM> movable between an extended position and a retracted position (illustratively, the position shown in <FIG>). For example, as illustratively shown in <FIG>, the covering <NUM> can be vertically extendable or retractable (e.g., able to be lowered or raised, respectively, in a vertical direction) between the extended position and the retracted position for obscuring and exposing the underlying architectural structure.

As illustrated, the architectural-structure covering <NUM> may also include a headrail <NUM>, which in the illustrated example of an embodiment is a housing having opposed end caps <NUM>, <NUM> joined by front, back, and top sides to form an open bottom enclosure. The headrail <NUM> may also include any suitable mounting structure <NUM> for coupling the headrail <NUM> to a structure above, or at the top of, an architectural structure, such as a wall, via mechanical fasteners such as screws, bolts, or the like. Although a particular example of a headrail <NUM> is shown in <FIG>, many different types and styles of headrails exist and could be employed in place of the example headrail of <FIG>.

In use, the first covering <NUM> may be operatively associated with an operating system and/or an operating element to actuate movement of the first covering <NUM> between the extended and retracted positions. In one example of an embodiment, the architectural-structure covering <NUM> may include a first rotatable member <NUM> (<FIG> and <FIG>). In use, the first rotatable member <NUM> is operatively associated with the first covering <NUM>. In the illustrated embodiment including a headrail, the headrail <NUM> is arranged and configured to house the first rotatable member <NUM>. The first rotatable member <NUM> may be rotatably coupled between the end caps <NUM>, <NUM>. In use, rotation of the first rotatable member <NUM> in a first direction may retract the first covering <NUM> while rotation of the first rotatable member <NUM> in a second, opposite direction may extend the first covering <NUM>.

As further illustrated in <FIG>, the architectural-structure covering <NUM> also includes a second covering <NUM> movable between an extended position and a retracted position (illustratively, the position shown in <FIG>). As illustrated, the second covering <NUM> is positioned behind the first covering <NUM> (e.g., the first covering <NUM> is positioned closer to the room facing side of the architectural-structure covering <NUM> as compared to the second covering <NUM>).

In use, the second covering <NUM> may be operatively associated with an operating system and/or an operating element to actuate movement of the second covering <NUM> between the extended and retracted positions. In one example of an embodiment, the architectural-structure covering <NUM> may include a second rotatable member <NUM> (<FIG> and <FIG>). In use, the second rotatable member <NUM> is operatively associated with the second covering <NUM>. In the illustrated embodiment including a headrail, the headrail <NUM> is arranged and configured to house the second rotatable member <NUM>. In use, similar to the operation of the first rotatable member <NUM>, rotation of the second rotatable member <NUM> in a first direction may retract the second covering <NUM> while rotation of the second rotatable member <NUM> in a second, opposite direction may extend the second covering <NUM>.

Thus arranged, the first and second coverings <NUM>, <NUM> are separately and independently movable (e.g., capable of being independently raised or lower) so that the positions of the first and second coverings <NUM>, <NUM>, respectively, may be separately and independently adjustable.

Referring to <FIG>, in accordance with one aspect of the present disclosure, an example of an embodiment of the headrail <NUM> including a housing <NUM> having opposed end caps <NUM>, <NUM> to form an open-bottom enclosure is shown. The illustrated embodiment of the headrail <NUM> is one example of an embodiment of a headrail that may be used in combination with the architectural-structure covering <NUM> illustrated in <FIG>. As generally shown, the headrail <NUM> may include first and second sections, partitions, portions, mounting areas, etc. <NUM>, <NUM> (used interchangeably herein) for positioning the first and second rotatable members <NUM>, <NUM>, respectively. For purposes of the present disclosure, detailed discussion will now turn to general aspects, features, etc. associated with the second covering <NUM>. As such, for the sake of brevity, operation of the first covering <NUM> is omitted herefrom. For additional information relating to the headrail and specifically an example of an embodiment of the first portion <NUM> of the headrail reference is hereby made to <CIT>, entitled "Headrail for an Architectural-Structure Covering'. However, as previously mentioned, any suitable headrail may be used and the present disclosure should not be limited to the specific construction or details of the headrail unless specifically claimed. For example, referring to <FIG>, an alternate example of a headrail <NUM>' that may be used in combination with the architectural-structure covering <NUM> illustrated in <FIG> is shown. For additional information relating to the headrail <NUM>' reference is hereby made to <CIT>, entitled "Blind Assembly with Two Blind Head Rail'.

Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, in the illustrated embodiment, the second portion <NUM> of the headrail <NUM>,<NUM>' contains the second rotatable member <NUM>. In addition, the second portion <NUM> of the headrail <NUM>,<NUM>' contains sufficient space to contain the second covering <NUM> when the second covering <NUM> is wound about the second rotatable member <NUM> when in the retracted position. Meanwhile, the second portion <NUM> may also be arranged and configured to minimize height and depth of the headrail <NUM>,<NUM>'.

In use, the first and second rotatable members <NUM>, <NUM> are separately and independently movable (e.g., capable of being separately and independently raised or lower) so that the positions of the first and second coverings <NUM>, <NUM>, respectively, may be separately and independently adjustable. Thus arranged, the second covering <NUM> can be moved between the extended and retracted positions separately and independently of the first covering <NUM>.

In accordance with one aspect of the present disclosure, referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, the architectural-structural covering <NUM> includes a light source <NUM> for directing light onto the second covering <NUM> when the second covering <NUM>, or at least a portion thereof, is extended. In use, in one example of an embodiment, the architectural-structure covering <NUM> provides light from the light source <NUM> onto the second covering <NUM>, which is arranged and configured to reflect the received light from the light source <NUM> toward the interior space of the room in which the architectural-structure covering <NUM> is located. Thus arranged, to the extent that the second covering <NUM> is partially extended (e.g., to the extent that the second covering <NUM> is moved to an intermediate position between the retracted position and the fully extended position), the architectural-structure covering <NUM> will reflect (e.g., illuminate) light across the partially extended second covering <NUM>. For example, as shown, in one example of an embodiment utilizing a headrail, a light source <NUM> for directing light onto the second covering <NUM> when the second covering <NUM>, or at least a portion thereof, is extended from the headrail <NUM>, <NUM>' may be positioned within the second portion <NUM> of the headrail <NUM>, <NUM>'.

In one example of an embodiment, as generally represented in <FIG> and <FIG>, the light source <NUM> may be in the form of a plurality of light-emitting diodes arranged and configured in a strip that extends across the length of the headrail <NUM>, <NUM>', although it is envisioned that the light source may take on any other suitable form. For example, the light source (e.g., LEDs) may be arranged and configured in an array. As such, it should be appreciated that the light source (e.g., LEDs) may be provided in any suitable form and/or configuration arranged and configured to provide the desired intensity and uniformity of light output. In addition, and/or alternatively, the light source may be arranged and configured to provide variable hue, tone, color temperature, color rendering index (CRI), etc. (e.g., light source may be arranged and configured to provide, for example, warm/cool light).

In use, the light source <NUM> is arranged and configured to direct emitted light onto the second covering <NUM> when the second covering <NUM> is extended, or at least partially extended. Thereafter, the second covering <NUM> is arranged and configured to distribute the light from the light source <NUM> toward the interior space of the room in which the architectural-structure covering is located. In one example of an embodiment, the second covering <NUM> is manufactured from a reflective material that is arranged and configured to reflect the emitted light from the light source <NUM> toward the interior space of the room in which the architectural-structure covering is located (e.g., the second, reflective covering <NUM> is arranged and configured to reflect the emitted light from the light source <NUM>). In addition, in one embodiment, the second covering <NUM> may be manufactured from a flexible material so that the second covering <NUM> can be extended and retracted such as, for example, wound and unwound, stackable, etc..

Thus arranged, in use, the first covering <NUM> may be moved between the extended and retracted positions as desired. For example, the first covering <NUM> is arranged and configured to operate as any known architectural-structure covering. For example, the first covering <NUM> may be extended to provide privacy, to conceal the underlying architectural structure, to modify the flow-through of natural light, etc. In addition, the first covering <NUM> may be retracted to reveal the underlying architectural structure, to adjust view-through, etc..

Thereafter, the second covering <NUM> may be extended and the light source <NUM> activated to illuminate the architectural-structure covering <NUM> (e.g., light source <NUM> may be illuminated to direct light onto the second covering <NUM>, which is arranged and configured to reflect the light toward the interior space of the room in which the architectural-structure covering <NUM> is positioned thus giving the appearance that the architectural-structure covering <NUM>, or at least the extended or exposed portion of the second covering <NUM>, is being illuminated. In this manner, the architectural-structure covering <NUM> may be arranged and configured to provide light. For example, during evening hours, with the first covering <NUM> at least partially extended, the second covering <NUM> may be partially extended and the light source <NUM> turned ON to provide lighting (e.g., the covering portions of the architectural-structure covering <NUM> may be illuminated in place of room lighting).

In one example of an embodiment, the first and second coverings <NUM>, <NUM> may be arranged and configured to extend and retract substantially in unison. That is, for example, although the first and second rotatable members <NUM>, <NUM> are separate and independently operable, in one example of an embodiment, the first and second rotatable members <NUM>, <NUM> may be arranged and configured to rotate in a manner such that the first and second coverings <NUM>, <NUM> extend and retract in unison (e.g., to extend and retract simultaneously at the same time and/or to the same extent). Thus arranged, as the first and second coverings <NUM>, <NUM> are movable between their retracted positions and their extended positions to any point in between, the user can select how much of the architectural structure <NUM> is covered by the first and second coverings <NUM>, <NUM> (e.g., the user can view through, for example, a portion of the window that is not covered by the partially extended coverings).

The light source <NUM> may be mounted, coupled, etc. by any suitable mechanism now known or hereafter developed. For example, in connection with a headrail <NUM>, <NUM>', the light source <NUM> may be mounted to an underside of the headrail <NUM>, <NUM>', and in one embodiment, the light source <NUM> may be adhered, fastened, etc. to the headrail <NUM>, <NUM>', although any suitable mechanism for coupling the light source <NUM> to the headrail <NUM>, <NUM>' may be utilized. Alternatively, in connection with embodiments where there is no headrail, the light source <NUM> may be mounted, for example, directly to the architectural-structure by any suitable mechanism.

In accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure, referring to <FIG>, the architectural-structure covering <NUM> may also include a reflector <NUM>. The light source <NUM> may be coupled to the reflector <NUM> to emit light onto a surface of the reflector <NUM>. For embodiments in which the light source <NUM> is coupled to the reflector <NUM>, the reflector <NUM> may be arranged and configured as a heat sink to draw heat away from the light source (e.g., LEDs) <NUM> during operation. The light source (e.g., LEDs) <NUM> may be mounted to the reflector <NUM> (e.g., heat sink) via heat transfer tape, heat transfer adhesive, or the like. In use, the reflector <NUM> assists with drawing heat away from the light source <NUM>. In one example of an embodiment, as shown, the reflector <NUM> may be positioned within the headrail <NUM>, <NUM>' for embodiments including a headrail. Although not illustrated, as will be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art, the light source (e.g., LEDs) <NUM> may be associated with a lens, a collimator, or the like. In one embodiment, each LED <NUM> may be associated with an individual lens, collimator, or the like. In another embodiment, a single lens, collimator, or the like may be used for the plurality of LEDs <NUM>. In use, the lens, collimator, or the like may be utilized to redirect the light and/or to improve uniform light distribution.

In use, the reflector <NUM> may be arranged and configured to reflect, direct, etc. the emitted light from the light source <NUM> towards the second, reflective covering <NUM>. For example, in one example of an embodiment, as shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, the reflector <NUM> may include a base portion <NUM> and a reflective surface <NUM>. The base portion <NUM> may be arranged and configured to receive, mount, etc. the light source <NUM>. The reflective surface <NUM> may be arranged and configured to extend from the base portion <NUM> so that, in use, the reflective surface <NUM> is positioned adjacent to and/or below the light source <NUM>. Thus arranged, in use, the emitted light from the light source <NUM> is directed onto the reflective surface <NUM> and towards the second, reflective covering <NUM>. In one example of an embodiment, the reflective surface <NUM> may be arcuate, curved, etc. such as, for example, parabolic, cylindrical, partially spherical, etc. although the reflective surface may have any shape arranged and configured to reflect the emitted light from the light source <NUM> towards the second, reflective covering <NUM>. In one embodiment, referring to <FIG>, <FIG>, and <FIG>, the reflective surface <NUM> preferably includes a parabolic shape. It has been discovered that by utilizing a parabolic shape improved uniformity of emitted light was obtained across the covering when the covering was in the extended position. In this manner, the emitted light from the light source <NUM> may be more evenly distributed, thus avoiding the appearance of spotting (e.g., appearance of dark spots).

In one embodiment where a headrail is used, the reflector <NUM> may be coupled to the headrail <NUM>, <NUM>' by any suitable mechanism now known or hereafter developed. For example, in one embodiment, the reflector <NUM> may extend an entire length of the headrail <NUM>, <NUM>', although it is contemplated that the reflector <NUM> could also be installed in an intermittent manner along the length of the headrail (e.g., using multiple individual reflectors), or could cover only a portion of the length of the headrail. For embodiments where a headrail is used, the reflector <NUM> may be coupled to the opposing end caps <NUM>, <NUM>. For example, the reflector <NUM> may include openings <NUM> formed in the reflector <NUM> for receiving inwardly extending projections, fasteners, etc. <NUM> (<FIG>) sized and arranged to be received by the openings <NUM> formed in the reflector <NUM>.

The reflector <NUM> may be sized and shaped to reflect light from the light source <NUM> onto any portion of the second covering <NUM> and/or any portion of the headrail <NUM>, <NUM>'. As will be appreciated, it may be desirable to provide an even illumination of the architectural structure covering <NUM> along its entire extended length. Thus, by adjusting the manner in which light is reflected via the reflector <NUM>, it can be possible to facilitate even illumination. That is, in one example of an embodiment, by reflecting light from the light source <NUM> via the reflector <NUM> onto the second covering <NUM> even illumination (e.g., continuous lighting from top to bottom without shadows, interruption, etc.) may be achieved.

In one example of an embodiment, the reflector <NUM> may be fixably positioned during assembly to optimize reflection from the light source <NUM> onto any portion of the second covering <NUM> and/or any portion of the headrail <NUM>, <NUM>'. Alternatively, however, it is envisioned that the reflector <NUM> may be arranged and configured to be adjustable (e.g., movably positioned) relative to the second covering <NUM> and/or any portion of the headrail <NUM>, <NUM>' to facilitate field adjustments.

In use, in one example of an embodiment, the architectural-structure covering <NUM> provides light from the light source <NUM> onto the second, reflective covering <NUM> and from the second, reflective covering <NUM> toward the interior space of the room in which the architectural-structure covering <NUM> is located. Thus arranged, to the extent that the second covering <NUM> is partially extended (e.g., to the extent that the second covering <NUM> is moved to an intermediate position between the retracted position and the fully extended position), the architectural-structure covering <NUM> will reflect (e.g., illuminate) light across the partially extended second covering <NUM> allowing the user to view through the remaining uncovered portions of the underlying architectural structure not covered by the second covering <NUM> (e.g., user can view through the window not covered by the second covering <NUM>).

That is, in one example of an embodiment, the upper or first portion of the architectural-structure covering <NUM>, to the extent that the first and second coverings <NUM>, <NUM> are extended, may provide light while the lower or second portion of the architectural-structure covering <NUM>, to the extent that the first and second coverings <NUM>, <NUM> are not fully extended, may provide view through. This provides the user with numerous options in being able to determine the amount of light to be emitted. In addition, by arranging the light source <NUM> to direct light onto a second, reflective covering <NUM> from, for example, above such as, for example, by positioning the light source <NUM> with a headrail, advantages over, for example, side lighting an architectural-structure covering are provided (e.g., side lighting results in the entire length of the underlying architectural structure being lit regardless of the positioning of the covering).

Thus, in connection with one example of an embodiment of the present disclosure, as the first and second coverings <NUM>, <NUM> are extended, the user can enable portions of the architectural-structural covering <NUM> to be illuminated. For example, in applications where the underlying architectural structure is a window or an opening, as the first and second coverings <NUM>, <NUM> are extended, the user can enable view-through the underlying architectural structure while enabling portions of the architectural-structure covering <NUM> to be illuminated (e.g., the architectural-structure covering <NUM> is arranged and configured to only reflect (e.g., illuminate) light to the extent that the second, reflective covering <NUM> is extended). The light emitted from the light source <NUM> can be arranged and configured to be directed onto the second covering <NUM>, thus without extending the second covering <NUM>, the light emitted from the light source <NUM> will not be reflected towards the interior space of a room in which the architectural-structure covering is located.

In addition, the light source <NUM> and the second, reflective covering <NUM> may be arranged and configured to provide even distribution of light across the exposed (e.g., extended) surface area of the second covering <NUM>. That is, in one example of an embodiment, the architectural-structure covering <NUM> is arranged and configured to reflect light evenly across the entire cross-sectional area of the second covering <NUM>. Thus, with the second covering <NUM> extended to its fully extended position, the reflected light may be distributed across the entire extended length of the second covering <NUM>. However, by enabling the second covering <NUM> to be independently and separately movable relative to the first covering <NUM>, the user can control the amount, extent, etc. of the reflected light. For example, by only partially extending the second covering <NUM>, the user can control the extent to which light will be reflected (e.g., the user can control the extent of reflected light by controlling the length to which the second covering <NUM> is extended, light will only be reflected or distributed across the cross-sectional area of the second covering <NUM> (e.g., light will only be reflected or distributed across a cross-sectional area of an extended portion of said second, reflective covering, light will not be reflected beyond the extended cross-sectional area of the second, reflective covering <NUM>)).

In accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure, the architectural-structure covering <NUM> including deployment of the first and second coverings <NUM>, <NUM> and control of the light source <NUM> may be remotely controlled such as, for example, via a wireless remote device, although it is envisioned that the remote device could be coupled to the architectural-structure covering <NUM> via a hardwired connection. For example, as will be readily appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art, the architectural-structure covering <NUM> may be operatively associated with an APP running on a remote device such as, for example, a smartphone, a tablet, a computer, etc. Alternatively, the architectural-structure covering <NUM> may be operatively associated with a dedicated remote-control device, a wall switch, etc. In use, the remote device can be programed to, for example, control position of the first and second coverings <NUM>, <NUM> (e.g., to extend and retract the first and second covering <NUM>, <NUM>), to turn ON and OFF the light source <NUM>, etc. In addition, the architectural-structure covering <NUM> can be programed to take specific actions throughout the day. For example, the architectural-structure covering <NUM> can be programmed to automatically turn ON the light source <NUM> at a certain time, for example, in the morning to wake the user, or to turn OFF at a certain time, to extend or retract the coverings <NUM>, <NUM>, etc. In addition, the light source <NUM> may be arranged and configured to emit different color temperatures so that, for example, the light source <NUM> may be arranged and configured to mimic the color of the natural light throughout the day, alternatively the user could program the light source <NUM> to provide a desired color temperature, etc. Moreover, by controlling the color temperature of the emitted light, the user can also control, alter, etc. the appearance of the covering (e.g., first covering <NUM>). For example, by controlling the color temperature of the light, the user could make the fabric appear different colors.

In one embodiment, the second covering <NUM> may include a bottom rail, an additional light source may be positioned along the bottom rail. In use, the additional light source may be directed upwards so that, in the fully deployed position, the additional light source may facilitate providing uniform light distribution across the entire covering. In one embodiment, power may be provided to the additional light source via power lines coupled to, integrated with, etc. the operating cords.

The second covering <NUM> may be manufactured from any suitable, reflective material now known or hereafter developed. For example, the second, reflective covering <NUM> may be manufactured from a material arranged and configured to reflect light. In one example of an embodiment, the second, reflective covering <NUM> may be manufactured from a non-woven, fabric material arranged and configured to reflect light. In one embodiment, the fabric material may be arranged and configured with a metal coating and/or a protective clear film or coating. In use, the film or coating is arranged and configured to reflect light. In one embodiment, the film or coating may have an optical density of. <NUM> or greater to prevent light from passing through the film or coating from the outside. Alternatively, in another embodiment, the fabric may include reflective yarns arranged and configured to reflect light toward the covering. In addition, the reflective yarns may also include a light blocking construction to prevent light from entering from the outside. In one embodiment, the second, reflective covering <NUM> may be manufactured from a projection material such as, for example, StarBright CLR® (Ceiling Light Rejecting) material manufactured and sold by Elite Screens.

Similarly, the reflector <NUM> may be manufactured from any suitable material now known or hereafter developed. Alternatively, the reflector <NUM> can be made from any material and a reflective surface <NUM> can be applied to the reflector <NUM>, the reflective surface <NUM> may be manufactured from a material arranged and configured to reflect light. For example, the reflective surface <NUM> may be formed by a layer such as a tape, a reflective coating, a paint coating, etc. In one example of an embodiment, the reflector <NUM> be manufactured from a metallic material such as, for example, aluminum. The metallic reflector <NUM> may include a mil finish. Optionally, the metallic reflector <NUM> may include a reflective coating as needed. In an alternate embodiment, the reflector <NUM> may be manufactured from a translucent film. Thus arranged, the architectural-structure covering could provide the impression that the building is occupied at night when the covering is lit up, while allowing the window to appear to be glowing to inside occupants. During the daytime, the translucent film could be an alternate shade or used in combination with the front shade for further light reduction without full blackout.

Referring to <FIG>, in one example of an embodiment, the first covering <NUM> of the architectural-structure covering <NUM> may be manufactured from a flexible material arranged and configured to be wound or unwound about the first rotatable member <NUM>. Alternatively, the first covering <NUM> may be manufactured from a flexible material arranged and configured to gather or stack adjacent to the first rotatable member <NUM>. For example, the first covering <NUM> may include a plurality of folds that are raised or lowered as lift cords are wrapped about or unwrapped from the first rotatable member <NUM>. The lift cords may be coupled to the first rotatable member <NUM> and may be operatively coupled to the first covering <NUM>, for example, a bottom rail <NUM> of the first covering <NUM>. Thereafter, rotation of the first rotatable member <NUM> in a first direction wraps the lift cords about the first rotatable member <NUM> causing the first covering <NUM> to retract adjacent to the first rotatable member <NUM>, while rotation in a second direction causes the lift cords to unwrap about the first rotatable member <NUM> causing the first covering <NUM> to move in an extended configuration. However, it will be appreciated that although illustrated and described in a particular form, the first covering <NUM> may be any type of covering now known or hereafter developed. For example, when in the retracted position, the first covering <NUM> may be arranged and configured to be wound about the first rotatable member <NUM>. Alternatively, the first covering <NUM> may be in the form of a cellular shade such as, for example, a honey-comb, etc..

Referring to <FIG>, in one example of an embodiment, as illustrated, the second covering <NUM> of the architectural-structure covering <NUM> may be wrapped around the second rotatable member <NUM> in the retracted position. For example, the second covering <NUM> may be manufactured from a flexible material arranged and configured to be wrapped about the second rotatable member <NUM> to retract the second covering <NUM> or unwrapped from the second rotatable member <NUM> to extend the second covering <NUM>. However, it will be appreciated that although illustrated and described in a particular form, the second covering <NUM> may be manufactured from other type of coverings. For example, in one embodiment, the second covering <NUM> may be arranged and configured to be stackable.

As previously mentioned, the first and second coverings <NUM>, <NUM> may be operatively associated with operating systems and/or operating elements to actuate movement of the first and second coverings <NUM>, <NUM>. The operating systems and/or operating elements may be any suitable operating systems and/or operating elements now known or hereafter developed to actuate movement of the first and second coverings <NUM>, <NUM>. For example, the operating system and/or element can take any appropriate form (e.g., a clutch, a gear, a motor, a drive train, and/or a gear train, etc.) and can include any type of controls (e.g., continuous loop, raise/lower cord(s), chains, ropes, a motor, etc.). As such, the present disclosure should not be limited by the details of the first covering as described and illustrated herein unless specifically claimed.

Referring to <FIG>, an alternate example of an embodiment of an architectural-structure covering <NUM> is illustrated. In use, the architectural-structure covering <NUM> may include a covering <NUM>. As illustrated in <FIG>, the covering <NUM> may be in the form of a honeycomb shade. Alternatively, the covering <NUM> may be any now known or hereafter developed covering including, for example, a fabric covering, etc. Generally speaking, the covering <NUM> may be movable, for example, between an extended position and a retracted position, however for reasons that will become apparent, the covering <NUM> may be arranged and configured to remain relatively stationary.

In accordance with the embodiment of <FIG>, the architectural-structure covering <NUM> includes a light box <NUM> positioned behind or rearward of the covering <NUM>. In use, the light box <NUM> can be positioned within an opening formed in a wall. Alternatively, the light box <NUM> can be positioned against a wall (e.g., hung on a wall in a building). Thereafter, the covering <NUM> can be positioned in front of the light box <NUM> (e.g., the covering <NUM> can be positioned on an interior side of the light box <NUM>).

In one embodiment, the light box <NUM> may be in the form of a lighted (e.g., LED) flat panel. As such, the light box <NUM> may include a front cover or surface <NUM>, a rear wall or surface, and top, bottom, and first and second lateral surfaces or walls. In this manner, the light box <NUM> may take the form of a rectangle or square, although other shapes are envisioned. In addition, the light box <NUM> can have any size such as, for example, <NUM> ft x 4ft, <NUM> ft x <NUM> ft, etc. For example, in one embodiment, the LED flat panel may be constructed from an aluminum frame or extrusion to create a frame. In use, referring to <FIG>, lights (e.g., LEDs) <NUM> may be positioned on the longitudinal edges of the light box <NUM>. For example, the lights (e.g., LEDs) may take the form of low-voltage DC LEDs grouped together is series, typically in strings of <NUM> to <NUM> LEDs. In use, the lights (e.g., LEDs) <NUM> positioned along the longitudinal edges of the light box <NUM> may be arranged and configured so that the LEDs <NUM> progressively turn ON as the covering is lowered so that the user doesn't see any visible LEDs (e.g., the longitudinal LEDs are arranged and configured to partially turn ON so that only the portion of the LEDs commensurate with the length of the extended covering are turned ON). In addition, and/or alternatively, the LEDs <NUM> may be covered by a cover such as, for example, a milky white cover to conceal the LEDs <NUM>.

In use, the front cover or surface <NUM> can be translucent so that light emitted from within the light box <NUM> can be transmitted through the front cover or surface <NUM>. The rear wall or surface can be light-blocking, translucent or reflective depending on the application. Thus arranged, the light box <NUM> is arranged and configured to backlight the covering <NUM>.

In accordance with this embodiment, the architectural-structure covering <NUM> including the covering <NUM> and the light box <NUM> can be positioned anywhere to create an atmosphere mimicking day light. In particular, the architectural-structure covering <NUM> may be particularly useful in interior rooms, basements, or other areas devoid of any windows and natural day light. By incorporating the architectural-structure covering <NUM> including the covering <NUM> and the light box <NUM>, the impression of a window mimicking natural day light can be achieved.

Referring to <FIG>, an alternate example of an embodiment of a light box <NUM> is illustrated. As illustrated, the light box <NUM> may include a reflective rear surface <NUM> disposed within the light box <NUM>. In addition, and/or alternatively, the light box <NUM> may include a front sheet <NUM> that may include a plurality of perforations <NUM> arranged and configured to enable each individual LED to be exposed thru the perforated front sheet <NUM>. Thus arranged, by incorporating the reflective rear surface <NUM> and/or the perforated front sheet <NUM>, more uniform light distribution may be obtained. In one embodiment, as previously mentioned, each LED may include, for example, a lens arranged and configured to widen the spread or distribution of emitted light to improve the uniformity of light distribution and reduce the overall thickness of the light box <NUM>.

As illustrated, the LEDs (not shown) and corresponding perforation <NUM> can be provided in a uniform array so that the light from the individual LEDs may pass through the individual perforations, although it is envisioned that the LEDs and corresponding perforations <NUM> can be provided in alternate configurations, numbers, etc..

Referring to <FIG>, an alternate example of an embodiment of a light box <NUM> is illustrated. As illustrated, the light box <NUM> may include a front covering, cover or sheet <NUM> manufactured from a honeycomb covering. In use, the honeycomb covering may include a plurality of perforations <NUM> arranged and configured to enable each individual LED to be exposed thru the perforated honeycomb covering. In addition, interior surfaces of the cells of the honeycomb covering may include a reflective surface. Furthermore, as illustrated the light box <NUM> may include side lighting. That is, as illustrated, lighting strips (e.g., LEDs) <NUM> may be incorporated along, for example, the lateral side edges of the light box <NUM>. In this embodiment, light emitted from the lighting strips <NUM> may pass into the perforated honeycomb covering <NUM> and may pass through the individual perforations.

Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, an alternate example of an embodiment of an architectural-structure covering <NUM> is illustrated. In use, the architectural-structure covering <NUM> may include a covering <NUM>. The covering <NUM> may be any now known or hereafter developed covering including, for example, a decorative fabric covering, etc. Generally speaking, the covering <NUM> may be movable, for example, between an extended position and a retracted position, however for reasons that will become apparent, the covering <NUM> may be arranged and configured to remain relatively stationary.

In accordance with the embodiment of <FIG> and <FIG>, the architectural-structure covering <NUM> includes a light box <NUM> positioned behind or rearward of the covering <NUM>. In use, the light box <NUM> can be positioned within an opening formed in a wall. Alternatively, the light box <NUM> can be positioned against a wall (e.g., hung on a wall in a building). Thereafter, the covering <NUM> can be positioned in front of the light box <NUM> (e.g., the covering <NUM> can be positioned on an interior, room-facing side of the light box <NUM>).

In one embodiment, as illustrated, the light box <NUM> includes a front cover or surface <NUM>, a rear wall or surface <NUM>, and a light bar <NUM> positioned between the front cover <NUM> and rear wall <NUM>. The light box <NUM> may also include a bottom rail <NUM> and, optionally first and second lateral surfaces or walls. In this manner, the light box <NUM> may take the form of a rectangle or square, although other shapes are envisioned. In use, as illustrated, the light bar <NUM> may be positioned between the front cover <NUM> and the rear wall <NUM> along a top edge thereof, although other configurations are envisioned such as, for example, along a bottom edge thereof, along the lateral side edges, etc..

In use, the front cover or surface <NUM> may be manufactured from a transparent or translucent material such as, for example, a shear fabric. The rear wall or surface <NUM> may be manufactured from a reflective material as described herein. The light bar <NUM> may be arranged and configured as a plug-in capable of being plugged into a standard electrical outlet, although other configurations are envisioned. Thus arranged, light emitted from the light bar <NUM> can be transmitted through the front cover or surface <NUM>. The rear wall or surface <NUM> can be reflective, alternatively it is envisioned that the rear wall or surface could be light-blocking or translucent depending on the application. Thus arranged, the light box <NUM> is arranged and configured to backlight the covering <NUM>.

Alternatively, in one embodiment, the light box <NUM> may be in the form of an edge-lit light guide such as, for example, ACRYLITE® LED light guiding edge lit acrylic. In use, light is fed into an edge of highly transparent material and evenly emitted across the surface thereof. In use, instead of the light box <NUM>, an edge-lit light guide could be placed over the entire window. Thus arranged, the daytime view could be maintained, and then at night, with the covering fully extended, the acrylic light guide sheet could be turned ON.

Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, an alternate example of an embodiment of an architectural-structure covering <NUM> is illustrated. In use, the architectural-structure covering <NUM> may include a covering <NUM>. Similar to the embodiment described above in connection with <FIG> and <FIG>, the covering <NUM> may be any now known or hereafter developed covering including, for example, a decorative fabric covering, etc. Generally speaking, the covering <NUM> may be movable, for example, between an extended position and a retracted position, however for reasons that will become apparent, the covering <NUM> may be arranged and configured to remain relatively stationary.

In accordance with the embodiment of <FIG> and <FIG>, the architectural-structure covering <NUM> includes a light box <NUM> positioned behind or rearward of the covering <NUM>. Similar to the embodiment described above in connection with <FIG> and <FIG>, in use, the light box <NUM> can be positioned within an opening formed in a wall. Alternatively, the light box <NUM> can be positioned against a wall (e.g., hung on a wall in a building). Thereafter, the covering <NUM> can be positioned in front of the light box <NUM> (e.g., the covering <NUM> can be positioned on an interior, room-facing side of the light box <NUM>).

In one embodiment, as illustrated, the light box <NUM> may be in the form of a light panel such as, for example, an LED flat panel manufactured by Nanoleaf, an OLED panel manufactured by Lumiblade, or the like. In one embodiment, as illustrated, the light panel may be arranged and configured as a plug-in capable of being plugged into a standard electrical outlet, although other configurations are envisioned. Thus arranged, the light box (e.g., light panel) <NUM> is arranged and configured to backlight the covering <NUM>. Alternatively, in one embodiment, it is envisioned that the light box <NUM> could be replaced with an image or pattern. In use, the covering <NUM> could be raised and lowered to reveal the underlying image. For example, a flat panel TV, a Nanoleaf panel, an OLED panel, or the like could be provided. In use, the covering <NUM> could be raised and lowered to reveal the underlying image provided on, for example, the flat panel TV.

In accordance with this embodiment, the architectural-structure covering <NUM> including the covering <NUM> and the light box (e.g., light panel) <NUM> can be positioned anywhere to create an atmosphere mimicking day light. In particular, the architectural-structure covering <NUM> may be particularly useful in interior rooms, basements, or other areas devoid of any windows and natural day light. By incorporating the architectural-structure covering <NUM> including the covering <NUM> and the light box (e.g., light panel) <NUM>, the impression of a window mimicking natural day light can be achieved.

Referring to <FIG>, alternate examples of an embodiment of an architectural-structure covering <NUM>, <NUM> are illustrated. In use, the architectural-structure coverings <NUM>, <NUM> may include a covering <NUM>, <NUM>, respectively, movable between an extended position and a retracted position. For example, the covering <NUM>, <NUM> can be vertically extendable or retractable (e.g., able to be lowered or raised, respectively, in a vertical direction) between the extended position and the retracted position for obscuring and exposing the underlying architectural structure. The covering <NUM>, <NUM> may be any now known or hereafter developed covering including, for example, a fabric covering (as illustrated in <FIG>), a honeycomb (as illustrated in <FIG>), etc..

In accordance one or more aspects of the present disclosure, the architectural-structure coverings <NUM>, <NUM> include one or more light strips (e.g., LED strips) <NUM>, <NUM> disposed within one or more folds, cells, etc. of the covering <NUM>, <NUM>. Thus arranged, the light strips (e.g., LED strips) <NUM>, <NUM> provide illumination of the covering <NUM>, <NUM>. For example, as illustrated, the covering <NUM>, <NUM> is arranged and configured to provide lighting, for example, extending across the width of the covering, although it is envisioned that the light strips <NUM> can be disposed in alternate orientations such as, for example, vertically in a vertical covering <NUM> in a vertically suspended architectural-structure covering <NUM> as illustrated in <FIG>.

In one embodiment, the light strips (e.g., LED strips) <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> may be in the form of a metal core print circuit board (PCB) with LEDs. Thus arranged, as illustrated in <FIG>, the light strips (e.g., LED strips) <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> may be disposed within the individual folds or cells of a fabric-based covering such as, for example, a Roman shade. Alternatively, as illustrated, the light strips (e.g., LED strips) <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> may be disposed within the individual folds or cells of a honeycomb shade. In use, as illustrated, the light strips (e.g., LED strips) <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> may be disposed in each fold or cell of the covering <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>. Alternatively, the light strips (e.g., LED strips) <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> may be disposed in every other fold or cell of the covering <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, every third fold or cell, etc..

In use, the light strips (e.g., LED strips) <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> may be coupled within the folds or cells of the covering <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> by any suitable mechanism now known or hereafter developed including, for example, an adhesive, tape, etc..

As previously mentioned, and as will be readily appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art, an architectural-structure covering may also include a headrail, which may be in the form of a housing having opposed end caps joined by front, back, and top sides to form an open bottom enclosure. Referring to <FIG>, in accordance with another example of an embodiment of an architectural-structure covering <NUM>, one or more light strips (e.g., LEDs) <NUM> may be disposed within a headrail <NUM>. In use, the one or more light strips (e.g., LEDs) <NUM> may extend across a substantial width of the headrail <NUM> such as, for example, approximately <NUM>/<NUM> a width of the headrail <NUM>, although it is envisioned that the light strip (e.g., LEDs) <NUM> may extend more or less. In addition, and/or alternatively, the one or more light strips (e.g., LEDs) <NUM> may be positioned in front of the covering <NUM>, which may take the form of any suitable covering <NUM> now known or hereafter developed covering including, for example, a fabric covering, a honeycomb, etc. Thus arranged, the light strips (e.g., LEDs) <NUM> are arranged and configured to illuminate a front surface <NUM> of the covering <NUM>.

In addition, as illustrated in <FIG>, in one embodiment, the architectural-structure covering <NUM> may also include a reflective rear covering <NUM>. For example, similar to the reflective rear covering previously described, the reflective rear covering <NUM> enables improved light reflection and thus may be provided with a surface, coating, etc. that provides a desired degree of reflection of light cast upon it. As illustrated in <FIG>, the light strip (e.g., LEDs) <NUM> may be positioned in the headrail <NUM> between the front covering <NUM> and the reflective rear covering <NUM> such that light emitted from the light strip is reflected off the reflective rear covering toward the front covering <NUM>.

In use, the light strips (e.g., LED strips) <NUM> may be coupled within the headrail by any suitable mechanism now known or hereafter developed including, for example, fasteners, clips, an adhesive, tape, etc..

In addition, and/or alternatively, referring to <FIG>, the covering <NUM> may be cut, divided, separated, etc. into front and rear portions <NUM>, <NUM>. For example, as illustrated, in one embodiment, a honeycomb covering may be arranged and configured into front and rear portions <NUM>, <NUM> separated by a gap or space <NUM>. In use, a light strip (e.g., LEDs) <NUM> may be positioned in the headrail of the architectural-structure covering. Thus arranged, light may be emitted from the light strip (e.g., LEDs) <NUM> into the gap or space <NUM> positioned between the front and rear portions <NUM>, <NUM> of the honeycomb shade. Thus arranged, better, more uniform light distribution may be provided as compared to emitting light from the headrail onto the front surface of the covering.

Moreover, in addition, one or more light strips (e.g., LEDs) <NUM> may be positioned within each individual cell of the, for example, honeycomb covering <NUM>. For example, a light strip (e.g., LEDs) <NUM> may be positioned in the uppermost cell of the honeycomb covering <NUM>, in between the front and rear portions <NUM>, <NUM> of the covering <NUM>. Alternatively, light strips (e.g., LEDs) <NUM> may be positioned within all, or substantially all, of the cells. In use, the light strips (e.g., LDs) <NUM> may be positioned between the front and rear portions <NUM>, <NUM> of the covering <NUM> in a downward facing orientation (e.g., LEDs are arranged and configured to emit light downwards), although other configurations are envisioned.

In addition, and/or alternatively, a reflective surface may be positioned within each cell to facilitate better, more uniform light distribution. As previously mentioned, the reflective material, surface, covering, etc. (used interchangeably herein without the intent to limit) used and described herein, may be used in any of the preceding embodiments, whether described or not. In addition, reflective surface may be manufactured from a material arranged and configured to reflect light. The reflective surface may be any suitable material now know or hereafter developed including those previously described herein. For example, as previously mentioned, the reflective surface may be manufactured from a non-woven, fabric material arranged and configured to reflect light.

The light strips (e.g. LEDs) may be any suitable lighting product arranged and configured to emit light. For example, the light strip may be in the form of a flexible strip of LEDs such as, for example, an OLED strip or panel such as Flexible OLEDs strips manufactured by Lyteus, Brite <NUM> or Curve as manufactured by OLED Works, and Luflex Flexible as manufactured by LG Displays. Alternatively, the light strip may be in the form of a flexible LED strip or panel such as, for example, Clyde manufactured by Design LED, a mesh and string LED system such as manufactured by Traxon Technologies or a flexible LED manufactured via 3D printing such as Nth light manufactured by SP Technology. Alternatively, the light strip may be in the form of a LEC/EL flat panel type strip such as, for example, pFy-p2 manufactured by LunaLEC, Glow-Tec manufactured by InvoisCoat GmbH, or EL Panels manufactured by Ellumiglow. Alternatively, the light strip may be in the form of a lighted textile such as, for example, an optical fiber such as, for example, Lightex manufactured by Brochier Technologies or Fibrance manufactured by Versalume. Alternatively, the light strip may be in the form of a glow in the dark material or strip such as, for example, White/White PS Series Ink manufactured by AllureGlow or Invisible GID manufactured by GloMania. Alternatively, the light strip may be in the form of a light-emitting panel such as, for example, a bendable OLEDS manufactured by Konica Minolta or OVJP Printing manufactured by Universal Display Corp.

In use, the architectural-structure covering including the light strip(s) and corresponding circuity can be powered by any suitable mechanism now known or hereafter developed including, for example, hardwired, plug-in, batter-power, etc. Alternatively, the architectural-structure covering including the light strip(s) and corresponding circuity can be powered by, for example, Near-Filed charging devices such as, for example, NuIQTM Technology Platform manufactured by NuCurrent or Equus34 manufactured by Solace, or via a Far-Field charging device such as, for example, Powerspot manufactured by Powercast.

In accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure, the architectural-structure covering includes a diffusing layer. In use, the diffusing layer is arranged and configured to diffuse or scatter light reflected by a rear reflective surface, layer, covering, sheet, etc. (terms used interchangeably herein without the intent to limit or distinction). In use, the diffusing layer may be manufactured from any suitable material now known or hereafter developed arranged and configured to diffuse or scatter the light reflected from the rear reflective surface prior to passing through the aesthetic front or first covering. For example, in one embodiment, the diffusing layer may be in the form of a knit fabric such as, for example, a <NUM> ga knit fabric. In addition, and/or alternatively, in one embodiment, the diffusing layer may be a sheer fabric, a non-woven fabric, a woven or knit fabric, etc. Moreover, is various embodiments, the diffusing layer may include optical brighteners.

The diffusing layer is positioned in-between the rear or second, reflective covering and the aesthetic front or first covering to diffuse, scatter, or soften the light reflective from the rear or second, reflective covering prior to passing through the aesthetic front or first covering. Thus arranged, in use, the light diffusing layer facilitates the even distribution of light while minimizing or preventing visibility of the rear reflective covering, along with any inconsistencies in reflectivity, through the aesthetic front or first covering. In one embodiment, the light diffusing layer may be arranged and configured as a flexible material so that the diffusing layer can be extended and retracted such as, for example, wound (e.g., wrappable) and unwound (e.g., unwrappable) about a rotatable member. By incorporating a flexible diffusing layer arranged and configured to be wrapped and unwrapped about a rotatable member, a light diffusing roller shade system for illuminating architectural coverings can be provided. For example, in one embodiment, the incorporation of a room darkening, rear reflective covering coupled to a rotatable member in conjunction with a light diffusing sheet may be employed.

The intermediate diffusing layer may be provided in any suitable manner now known or hereafter developed. For example, in connection with the embodiment of <FIG> and as will be described in additional detail below, the rear or back sheet of the front covering <NUM> may be arranged and configured as the intermediate diffusing layer. Alternatively, as will be described in greater detail below, the diffusing layer may be coupled to the front or first covering such as, for example, adhered, laminated, etc. Alternatively, as will be described in greater detail below, the diffusing layer may be positioned coplanar with the front or first covering.

Alternatively, in one embodiment, the diffusing layer may be a separate covering or sheet and may be arranged and configured to be wrapped around a rotatable member. For example, referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, in one embodiment, the architectural-structure covering <NUM> may include an intermediate diffusing layer positioned between the rear, reflective covering and the front or first covering. As illustrated, in one embodiment, the intermediate diffusing layer may be coupled to and wrapped about the same rotatable member as the rear, reflective covering.

Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, the architectural-structure covering <NUM> is substantially similar to the architectural-structure covering <NUM> described and illustrated above in connection with <FIG>, thus for the sake of brevity, differences between the two architectural-structure coverings will be described herein, while similarities are mostly excluded.

As illustrated, the architectural-structure covering <NUM> includes a first covering <NUM> movable between an extended position (illustratively, the position shown in <FIG>) and a retracted position (illustratively, the position shown in <FIG>). For example, as illustratively shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, the front or first covering <NUM> can be vertically extendable or retractable (e.g., able to be lowered or raised, respectively, in a vertical direction) between the extended position and the retracted position for obscuring and exposing the underlying architectural structure.

As illustrated, the architectural-structure covering <NUM> may also include a headrail <NUM>. Although a particular example of a headrail <NUM> is shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, many different types and styles of headrails exist and could be employed in place of the example headrail shown.

In use, as previously described herein, the first covering <NUM> may be operatively associated with an operating system (e.g., a motor, an operating element, etc.) to actuate movement of the first covering <NUM> between the extended and retracted positions. In one example embodiment, the architectural-structure covering <NUM> may include a first rotatable member <NUM> operatively associated with the first covering <NUM>. In use, rotation of the first rotatable member <NUM> in a first direction may retract the first covering <NUM> while rotation of the first rotatable member <NUM> in a second, opposite direction may extend the first covering <NUM>.

As further illustrated in <FIG> and <FIG>, the architectural-structure covering <NUM> also includes a second covering <NUM> movable between an extended position (illustratively, the position shown in <FIG>) and a retracted position (illustratively, the position shown in <FIG>). As illustrated, the second covering <NUM> is positioned behind the first covering <NUM> (e.g., the first covering <NUM> is positioned closer to the room facing side of the architectural-structure covering <NUM> as compared to the second covering <NUM>).

In use, as previously described herein, the second covering <NUM> may be operatively associated with an operating system (e.g., a motor, an operating element, etc.) to actuate movement of the second covering <NUM> between the extended and retracted positions. In one example of an embodiment, the architectural-structure covering <NUM> may include a second rotatable member <NUM>. In use, the second rotatable member <NUM> is operatively associated with the second covering <NUM>. In the illustrated embodiment including a headrail, the headrail <NUM> is arranged and configured to house the first and second rotatable members <NUM>, <NUM>. In use, similar to the operation of the first rotatable member <NUM>, rotation of the second rotatable member <NUM> in a first direction may retract the second covering <NUM> while rotation of the second rotatable member <NUM> in a second, opposite direction may extend the second covering <NUM>.

In accordance with one or more aspects of the present disclosure, the front or first covering <NUM> may be any suitable covering now know or hereafter developed. Thus, for the sake of brevity, discussion on the operation and/or configuration of the front or first covering <NUM> is omitted herefrom.

Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, in the illustrated embodiment, the second covering <NUM>, which is coupled to the second rotatable member <NUM>, includes a front or first sheet <NUM> and a rear or second sheet <NUM>. As illustrated, similar to the embodiment described and illustrated above in connection with <FIG>, the architectural-structure covering <NUM> also includes a light source <NUM> (e.g., one or more LEDs). In use, the rear sheet <NUM> of the second covering <NUM> may be manufactured from a reflective material as previously described. In use, the second, reflective sheet <NUM> is arranged and configured to reflect the light emitted from the light source <NUM> toward the interior space of the room in which the architectural-structure covering is located (e.g., the rear sheet <NUM> of the second covering <NUM> is arranged and configured to reflect the emitted light from the light source <NUM>). As illustrated, and as previously described, the architectural-structure covering <NUM> may also include a reflector <NUM> configured to reflect the light emitted by the light source <NUM> toward the second covering <NUM>.

In accordance with the present disclosure, the architectural-structure covering <NUM> may also include an intermediate diffusing layer (e.g., the front or first sheet <NUM> of the second covering <NUM> is arranged and configured as an intermediate diffusing layer positioned between the rear reflective sheet <NUM> and the front or first covering <NUM>). Thus arranged, the intermediate diffusing layer <NUM> facilitates the even distribution of light while minimizing or preventing transmission of harsh shades of light.

In addition, thus arranged, by providing the architectural-structure covering <NUM> wherein the front or first covering <NUM> is completely separated from the rear, reflective covering <NUM> and the intermediate diffusing covering <NUM>, the front or first covering <NUM> can take the form of any suitable covering including any now known covering. As such, the front or first covering <NUM> can operate/function as currently existing coverings independent of the second covering <NUM>. For example, the front or first covering <NUM> can enable opacity and view-through control. Moreover, the front or first covering <NUM> can operate completely independent of the intermediate diffusing covering <NUM>, which can provide room darkening or illumination. That is, in use, the architectural-structure covering <NUM> allows for the face fabric (e.g., the aesthetic front or first covering <NUM>) to operate and/or appear similar to current coverings (e.g. same opacity and view-through). For example, in one embodiment, the front or first covering <NUM> may be in the form of a sheer, a sheer with variably opened positions or configurations, a darked fabric, etc..

Referring to <FIG> and <FIG>, in the illustrated embodiment, the rear covering <NUM> includes the intermediate diffusing layer <NUM> and the rear reflective sheet <NUM>, both of which may be coupled to or positionable about the same rotatable member <NUM>. In addition, the intermediate diffusing layer <NUM> and the rear reflective sheet <NUM> may be connected by a common bottom rail <NUM>. Alternatively, however, it is envisioned that each of the intermediate diffusing layer <NUM> and the rear reflective sheet <NUM> may include a separate and independent bottom rail.

Moreover, as illustrated, in one embodiment, the light source <NUM> and the reflector <NUM> are positioned between the intermediate diffusing layer <NUM> and the rear reflective sheet <NUM>. Thus arranged, as previously described, in use, the light source <NUM> directs light via the reflector <NUM> onto the rear reflective sheet <NUM> when the second covering <NUM>, or at least a portion thereof, is extended. The reflected light passing through the intermediate diffusing layer <NUM> and onto the aesthetic, front or first covering <NUM>.

During extension, with the reflector <NUM> positioned between the intermediate diffusing layer <NUM> and the rear reflective sheet <NUM>, the reflector <NUM> may be arranged and configured to divert the intermediate diffusing layer <NUM> away from the rear reflective sheet <NUM> as illustrated. Thus arranged, a single operating element (e.g., motor) may be used to extend and retract the second covering <NUM> inclusive of the intermediate diffusing layer <NUM> and the rear reflective sheet <NUM>.

Referring to <FIG>, an alternate embodiment of an architectural-structure covering <NUM> is shown. As illustrated, in one embodiment, the architectural-structure covering <NUM> includes a rear second covering <NUM> and an aesthetic front or first covering <NUM>. As illustrated, the rear second covering <NUM> and the aesthetic front or first covering <NUM> may be positioned on the same rotatable member <NUM>. Thus arranged, the rear reflective sheet <NUM> may be connected to the front aesthetic or front covering <NUM> by a common bottom rail <NUM>.

In addition, as illustrated and similar to the embodiment previously described, the architectural-structure covering <NUM> also includes a light source <NUM> (e.g., LEDs) and a reflector <NUM>. In use, the rear or second covering <NUM> may be manufactured from a reflective material as previously described. Alternatively, it is envisioned that the rear or second covering <NUM> may be manufactured from a light diffusing fabric when not used in conjunction with a lighted application. In use, when arranged in a lighted application, the second, reflective covering <NUM> is arranged and configured to reflect the emitted light from the light source <NUM> toward the interior space of the room in which the architectural-structure covering is located.

During extension, with the reflector <NUM> positioned between the front aesthetic or front covering <NUM> and the rear reflective covering <NUM>, the reflector <NUM> may be arranged and configured to contact the rear reflective covering <NUM> to divert the rear reflective covering <NUM> away from the front covering <NUM> as illustrated. Thus arranged, in one embodiment, the architectural-structure covering <NUM> may incorporate a single motor for extending and retracting the rear reflective covering <NUM> and the aesthetic front or first covering <NUM>. Moreover, in one embodiment, the rear reflective covering <NUM> may be a room-darkening or blackout covering. Alternatively, however, the rear reflective covering <NUM> may be a light filtering material that could be used to help create roller or screen shade having a diffused appearance.

In one embodiment, the front aesthetic or front covering <NUM> may include an integrated light diffusing layer. Alternatively, the front aesthetic or front covering <NUM> may include a light diffusing layer coupled thereto (e.g., the light diffusing layer may be laminated or adhered to the back of the face fabric or coplanar to the face fabric. ) Alternatively, and/or in addition, in some embodiments, the fabric used for the front aesthetic or front covering <NUM> may inherently including light diffusing, and thus the need for an additional layer of diffusion may be omitted. Moreover, in some implementations, the front aesthetic or front covering <NUM> could be cellular in nature with a "built in" diffuser in the aesthetic fabric construction.

Referring to <FIG>, an alternate embodiment of an architectural-structure covering <NUM> is shown. As illustrated, in one embodiment, the architectural-structure covering <NUM> includes a rear or second covering <NUM> and an aesthetic front or first covering <NUM>. In addition, as illustrated and similar to the embodiment previously described, the architectural-structure covering <NUM> also includes a light source <NUM> (e.g., LEDs) and a reflector <NUM>. In use, the rear or second covering <NUM> may be manufactured from a reflective material as previously described. The front covering <NUM> may incorporate, integrate, etc. a light-diffusing layer as described elsewhere herein. Thus arranged, the rear reflective covering <NUM> is arranged and configured to reflect the emitted light from the light source <NUM> toward the interior space of the room in which the architectural-structure covering is located. That is, the light may pass through a light diffusing layer and into the interior space in the room.

During extension, with the reflector <NUM> positioned between the front covering <NUM> and the rear reflective covering <NUM>, the reflector <NUM> may be arranged and configured to contact one or both of the front covering <NUM> and the rear reflective covering <NUM> to divert the rear reflective covering <NUM> and the front covering <NUM> away from each other.

In accordance with the embodiment of <FIG>, the rotatable member <NUM> may be arranged and configured as a dual rotor unit including an inner roller <NUM> and an outer roller <NUM>. In use, the inner roller <NUM> may be positioned inside of the outer roller <NUM>, and the inner and outer rollers <NUM>, <NUM> may be coaxially aligned about the same rotational axis. In use, the rear reflective sheet <NUM> may be coupled at a top edge to the inner roller <NUM>. The outer roller <NUM> may surround the inner roller <NUM>. The front covering <NUM> (e.g., diffusing layer <NUM>) may be coupled at a top edge to the outer roller <NUM>. The outer roller <NUM> including a slot extending along a length of the outer roller <NUM> and in communication with an interior of the outer roller <NUM> so that the rear reflective sheet <NUM> can pass therethrough during extension and retraction of the rear reflective sheet <NUM>.

In use, the front covering <NUM> (e.g., diffusing layer <NUM>) may be coupled to, and wrappable about, the outer roller <NUM> while the rear reflective sheet <NUM> may be coupled to, and wrappable about, the inner roller <NUM>. In the fully-retracted positions (as generally illustrated in <FIG>), the front covering <NUM> (e.g., diffusing layer <NUM>) and the rear reflective sheet <NUM> may be concealed within the head rail assembly. In this position, the rear reflective sheet <NUM> is fully wrapped about the inner roller <NUM> and the front covering <NUM> (e.g., diffusing layer <NUM>) is fully wrapped about the outer roller <NUM>. To extend the front covering <NUM> (e.g., diffusing layer <NUM>) from the head rail assembly, the user may actuate the operating system such as, for example, a drive motor, an operating element, etc., to cause the inner roller <NUM> to rotate in the extension direction, which in turn may cause the outer roller <NUM> to rotate in the extension direction due at least in part to the weight of a first bottom rail coupled to the front covering <NUM> (e.g., diffusing layer <NUM>) applying a downward force onto the front covering <NUM> (e.g., diffusing layer <NUM>). That is, as the front covering <NUM> (e.g., diffusing layer <NUM>) extends off the outer roller <NUM>, the outer roller <NUM> generally rotates in unison with the inner roller <NUM>. Once the front covering <NUM> (e.g., diffusing layer <NUM>) is in the fully extended position (<FIG>), the inner roller <NUM> may be driven via, for example, a motorized drive motor or a spring-assisted motor, to deploy the rear reflective sheet <NUM> (<FIG>).

Additional information on the operation and construction of a dual roller unit can be found, for example, in <CIT>, now <CIT>, entitled "Covering for an Architectural Opening Having Nested Rollers".

As previously mentioned, the intermediate diffusing layer may be provided and/or configured in other suitable manners. For example, referring to <FIG>, and as previously mentioned, in one embodiment, the architectural-structure covering <NUM> may include an aesthetic front or first covering <NUM>, a rear reflective or second covering <NUM>, and an intermediate diffusing layer <NUM> arranged and configured to be coplanar with the aesthetic front or first covering <NUM> along at least a portion of their respective lengths. For example, as illustrated, in one embodiment, the intermediate diffusing layer <NUM> may be arranged and configured to be wrapped and unwrapped from the same rotatable member <NUM> as the aesthetic front or first covering <NUM>. As illustrated, the rear reflective or second covering <NUM> may be arranged and configured to be wrapped and unwrapped from a second rotatable member <NUM>.

In addition, as illustrated and similar to the embodiment previously described, the architectural-structure covering <NUM> also includes a light source <NUM> (e.g., LEDs) and a reflector <NUM>. In use, the rear reflective or second covering <NUM> is arranged and configured to reflect the emitted light from the light source <NUM> toward the interior space of the room in which the architectural-structure covering is located. Thus arranged, the reflected light passes through the intermediate diffusing layer <NUM> prior to passing through the aesthetic front or first covering <NUM>.

Alternatively, referring to <FIG>, and as previously mentioned, in one embodiment, the architectural-structure covering <NUM> may include an aesthetic front or first covering <NUM>, a rear reflective or second covering <NUM>, and an intermediate diffusing layer <NUM>. As illustrated, the intermediate diffusing layer <NUM> may be arranged and configured to be coupled or integrated with the aesthetic front or first covering <NUM>. For example, in one embodiment, the intermediate diffusing layer <NUM> may be arranged and configured as the rear, back, or support sheet for the aesthetic front or first covering <NUM> (e.g., illustrated as a cellular panel covering).

For the sake of convenience and clarity, referring to <FIG>, all directional references or terms used herein such as, for example, "face," "front," "back," "rear," "top," "bottom," "up," "down," "vertical," "horizontal", "inner," "outer", "proximal," "distal," "upper," "lower," "upward," "downward," "left", "right," "lateral," "longitudinal," "above," "below," "vertical," "horizontal," "radial," "axial," "clockwise," and "counterclockwise" are only used for identification purposes to aid the reader's understanding of the present disclosure, and do not create limitations, particularly as to the position, orientation, or use of this disclosure. These references are used herein to describe the relative placement and orientation of various components and portions of the architectural-structure covering <NUM>, each with respect to the geometry and orientation of the architectural-structure covering <NUM> as they appear in <FIG>. Said reference is intended to be non-limiting and is used herein merely to describe relationship between various components as illustrated in <FIG>.

Although a particular example of an architectural-structure covering <NUM> is shown in <FIG>, many different types and styles of architectural-structure coverings exist and can be employed in place of the example illustrated in <FIG>. As such, it should be understood that features of the present disclosure may be used in combination with any suitable architectural-structure covering now known or hereafter developed and thus features of the present disclosure should not be limited to any particular type of architectural-structure covering. For example, it should be appreciated that the coverings <NUM>, <NUM> may be any suitable coverings now known or hereafter developed. In addition, the various features described herein may be used separately or jointly in any combination. The discussion of any embodiment is meant only to be explanatory and is not intended to suggest that the scope of the disclosure, including the claims, is limited to these embodiments.

While the present disclosure refers to certain embodiments, numerous modifications, alterations, and changes to the described embodiments are possible without departing from the scope of the present disclosure, as defined in the appended claim(s). Accordingly, it is intended that the present disclosure not be limited to the described embodiments, but that it has the full scope defined by the language of the following claims.

It should be understood that, as described herein, an "embodiment" (such as illustrated in the accompanying Figures) may refer to an illustrative representation of an environment or article or component in which a disclosed concept or feature may be provided or embodied, or to the representation of a manner in which just the concept or feature may be provided or embodied. However, such illustrated embodiments are to be understood as examples (unless otherwise stated), and other manners of embodying the described concepts or features, such as may be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art upon learning the concepts or features from the present disclosure, are within the scope of the disclosure. In addition, it will be appreciated that while the Figures may show one or more embodiments of concepts or features together in a single embodiment of an environment, article, or component incorporating such concepts or features, such concepts or features are to be understood (unless otherwise specified) as independent of and separate from one another and are shown together for the sake of convenience and without intent to limit to being present or used together. For instance, features illustrated or described as part of one embodiment can be used separately, or with another embodiment to yield a still further embodiment.

The phrases "at least one", "one or more", and "and/or", as used herein, are openended expressions that are both conjunctive and disjunctive in operation. The terms "a" (or "an"), "one or more" and "at least one" can be used interchangeably herein. Connection references (e.g., engaged, attached, coupled, connected, and joined) are to be construed broadly and may include intermediate members between a collection of elements and relative to movement between elements unless otherwise indicated. As such, connection references do not necessarily infer that two elements are directly connected and in fixed relation to each other. Identification references (e.g., primary, secondary, first, second, third, fourth, etc.) are not intended to connote importance or priority, but are used to distinguish one feature from another. The drawings are for purposes of illustration only and the dimensions, positions, order and relative to sizes reflected in the drawings attached hereto may vary.

Claim 1:
An architectural-structure covering (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) comprising:
a first covering (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) movable between an extended position and a retracted position;
a second, reflective covering (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) movable between an extended position and a retracted position;
an intermediate layer (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) positioned between the first covering and the second, reflective covering; and
a light source (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) for selectively directing light towards the second, reflective covering to illuminate an exposed portion of the second, reflective covering;
characterized in that:
the intermediate layer is a light diffusing layer, and
wherein the intermediate light diffusing layer is arranged and configured to diffuse light reflected by the second, reflective covering prior to the light passing through the first covering.