Patent ID: 12222099

The drawings are not necessarily to scale. 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.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

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 and their equivalents.

As will be described in greater detail below, an architectural-structure covering according to the present disclosure may include 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 may be arranged and configured to direct light onto a second covering, which may be arranged and configured to reflect the received light.

Referring toFIG.1, an example of an embodiment of an architectural-structure covering100in accordance with the present disclosure is illustrated. The architectural-structure covering100may include a first covering120movable between an extended position and a retracted position (illustratively, the position shown inFIG.1). For example, as illustratively shown inFIG.1, the covering120can 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 covering100may also include a headrail110, which in the illustrated example of an embodiment is a housing having opposed end caps112,114joined by front, back, and top sides to form an open bottom enclosure. The headrail110may also include any suitable mounting structure116for coupling the headrail110to 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 headrail110is shown inFIG.1, many different types and styles of headrails exist and could be employed in place of the example headrail ofFIG.1.

In use, the first covering120may be operatively associated with an operating system and/or an operating element to actuate movement of the first covering120between the extended and retracted positions. In one example of an embodiment, the architectural-structure covering100may include a first rotatable member125(FIGS.3and4). In use, the first rotatable member125is operatively associated with the first covering120. In the illustrated embodiment including a headrail, the headrail110is arranged and configured to house the first rotatable member125. The first rotatable member125may be rotatably coupled between the end caps112,114. In use, rotation of the first rotatable member125in a first direction may retract the first covering120while rotation of the first rotatable member125in a second, opposite direction may extend the first covering120.

As further illustrated inFIG.1, the architectural-structure covering100also includes a second covering220movable between an extended position and a retracted position (illustratively, the position shown inFIG.1). As illustrated, the second covering220is positioned behind the first covering220(e.g., the first covering120is positioned closer to the room facing side of the architectural-structure covering100as compared to the second covering220).

In use, the second covering220may be operatively associated with an operating system and/or an operating element to actuate movement of the second covering220between the extended and retracted positions. In one example of an embodiment, the architectural-structure covering100may include a second rotatable member225(FIGS.3and4). In use, the second rotatable member225is operatively associated with the second covering220. In the illustrated embodiment including a headrail, the headrail110is arranged and configured to house the second rotatable member225. In use, similar to the operation of the first rotatable member125, rotation of the second rotatable member225in a first direction may retract the second covering220while rotation of the second rotatable member225in a second, opposite direction may extend the second covering220.

Thus arranged, the first and second coverings120,220are separately and independently movable (e.g., capable of being independently raised or lower) so that the positions of the first and second coverings120,220, respectively, may be separately and independently adjustable.

Referring toFIG.2, in accordance with one aspect of the present disclosure, an example of an embodiment of the headrail110including a housing111having opposed end caps112,114to form an open-bottom enclosure is shown. The illustrated embodiment of the headrail110is one example of an embodiment of a headrail that may be used in combination with the architectural-structure covering100illustrated inFIG.1. As generally shown, the headrail110may include first and second sections, partitions, portions, mounting areas, etc.130,140(used interchangeably herein) for positioning the first and second rotatable members125,225, respectively. For purposes of the present disclosure, detailed discussion will now turn to general aspects, features, etc. associated with the second covering220. As such, for the sake of brevity, operation of the first covering120is omitted herefrom. For additional information relating to the headrail and specifically an example of an embodiment of the first portion130of the headrail reference is hereby made to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/747,831, filed on Jan. 21, 2020, entitled “Headrail for an Architectural-Structure Covering”, the contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. 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 toFIG.4, an alternate example of a headrail110′ that may be used in combination with the architectural-structure covering100illustrated inFIG.1is shown. For additional information relating to the headrail110′ reference is hereby made to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/743,578, filed on Jun. 18, 2015, entitled “Blind Assembly with Two Blind Head Rail”, the contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

Referring toFIGS.3and4, in the illustrated embodiment, the second portion140of the headrail110,110′ contains the second rotatable member225. In addition, the second portion140of the headrail110,110′ contains sufficient space to contain the second covering220when the second covering220is wound about the second rotatable member225when in the retracted position. Meanwhile, the second portion140may also be arranged and configured to minimize height and depth of the headrail110,110′.

In use, the first and second rotatable members125,225are separately and independently movable (e.g., capable of being separately and independently raised or lower) so that the positions of the first and second coverings120,220, respectively, may be separately and independently adjustable. Thus arranged, the second covering220can be moved between the extended and retracted positions separately and independently of the first covering120.

In accordance with one aspect of the present disclosure, referring toFIGS.3and4, the architectural-structural covering100includes a light source300for directing light onto the second covering220when the second covering220, or at least a portion thereof, is extended. In use, in one example of an embodiment, the architectural-structure covering100provides light from the light source300onto the second covering220, which is arranged and configured to reflect the received light from the light source300toward the interior space of the room in which the architectural-structure covering100is located. Thus arranged, to the extent that the second covering220is partially extended (e.g., to the extent that the second covering220is moved to an intermediate position between the retracted position and the fully extended position), the architectural-structure covering100will reflect (e.g., illuminate) light across the partially extended second covering220. For example, as shown, in one example of an embodiment utilizing a headrail, a light source300for directing light onto the second covering220when the second covering220, or at least a portion thereof, is extended from the headrail110,110′ may be positioned within the second portion140of the headrail110,110′.

In one example of an embodiment, as generally represented inFIGS.5and6, the light source300may be in the form of a plurality of light-emitting diodes arranged and configured in a strip that extends across the length of the headrail110,110′, 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 source300is arranged and configured to direct emitted light onto the second covering220when the second covering220is extended, or at least partially extended. Thereafter, the second covering220is arranged and configured to distribute the light from the light source300toward the interior space of the room in which the architectural-structure covering is located. In one example of an embodiment, the second covering220is manufactured from a reflective material that is arranged and configured to reflect the emitted light from the light source300toward the interior space of the room in which the architectural-structure covering is located (e.g., the second, reflective covering220is arranged and configured to reflect the emitted light from the light source300). In addition, in one embodiment, the second covering220may be manufactured from a flexible material so that the second covering220can be extended and retracted such as, for example, wound and unwound, stackable, etc.

Thus arranged, in use, the first covering120may be moved between the extended and retracted positions as desired. For example, the first covering120is arranged and configured to operate as any known architectural-structure covering. For example, the first covering120may be extended to provide privacy, to conceal the underlying architectural structure, to modify the flow-through of natural light, etc. In addition, the first covering120may be retracted to reveal the underlying architectural structure, to adjust view-through, etc.

Thereafter, the second covering220may be extended and the light source300activated to illuminate the architectural-structure covering100(e.g., light source300may be illuminated to direct light onto the second covering220, which is arranged and configured to reflect the light toward the interior space of the room in which the architectural-structure covering100is positioned thus giving the appearance that the architectural-structure covering100, or at least the extended or exposed portion of the second covering220, is being illuminated. In this manner, the architectural-structure covering100may be arranged and configured to provide light. For example, during evening hours, with the first covering120at least partially extended, the second covering220may be partially extended and the light source300turned ON to provide lighting (e.g., the covering portions of the architectural-structure covering100may be illuminated in place of room lighting).

In one example of an embodiment, the first and second coverings120,220may be arranged and configured to extend and retract substantially in unison. That is, for example, although the first and second rotatable members125,225are separate and independently operable, in one example of an embodiment, the first and second rotatable members125,225may be arranged and configured to rotate in a manner such that the first and second coverings120,220extend 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 coverings120,220are movable between their retracted positions and their extended positions to any point in between, the user can select how much of the architectural structure100is covered by the first and second coverings120,220(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 source300may be mounted, coupled, etc. by any suitable mechanism now known or hereafter developed. For example, in connection with a headrail110,110′, the light source300may be mounted to an underside of the headrail110,110′, and in one embodiment, the light source300may be adhered, fastened, etc. to the headrail110,110′, although any suitable mechanism for coupling the light source300to the headrail110,110′ may be utilized. Alternatively, in connection with embodiments where there is no headrail, the light source300may be mounted, for example, directly to the architectural-structure by any suitable mechanism.

In accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure, referring toFIGS.3-6, the architectural-structure covering100may also include a reflector320. The light source300may be coupled to the reflector320to emit light onto a surface of the reflector320. For embodiments in which the light source300is coupled to the reflector320, the reflector320may be arranged and configured as a heat sink to draw heat away from the light source (e.g., LEDs)300during operation. The light source (e.g., LEDs)300may be mounted to the reflector320(e.g., heat sink) via heat transfer tape, heat transfer adhesive, or the like. In use, the reflector320assists with drawing heat away from the light source300. In one example of an embodiment, as shown, the reflector320may be positioned within the headrail110,110′ 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)300may be associated with a lens, a collimator, or the like. In one embodiment, each LED300may 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 LEDs300. 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 reflector320may be arranged and configured to reflect, direct, etc. the emitted light from the light source300towards the second, reflective covering220. For example, in one example of an embodiment, as shown inFIGS.5and6, the reflector320may include a base portion321and a reflective surface322. The base portion321may be arranged and configured to receive, mount, etc. the light source300. The reflective surface322may be arranged and configured to extend from the base portion321so that, in use, the reflective surface322is positioned adjacent to and/or below the light source300. Thus arranged, in use, the emitted light from the light source300is directed onto the reflective surface322and towards the second, reflective covering220. In one example of an embodiment, the reflective surface322may 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 source300towards the second, reflective covering220. In one embodiment, referring toFIGS.3,5, and6, the reflective surface322preferably 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 source300may 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 reflector320may be coupled to the headrail110,110′ by any suitable mechanism now known or hereafter developed. For example, in one embodiment, the reflector320may extend an entire length of the headrail110,110′, although it is contemplated that the reflector320could 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 reflector320may be coupled to the opposing end caps112,114. For example, the reflector320may include openings324formed in the reflector320for receiving inwardly extending projections, fasteners, etc.115(FIG.3) sized and arranged to be received by the openings324formed in the reflector320.

The reflector320may be sized and shaped to reflect light from the light source300onto any portion of the second covering220and/or any portion of the headrail110,110′. As will be appreciated, it may be desirable to provide an even illumination of the architectural structure covering100along its entire extended length. Thus, by adjusting the manner in which light is reflected via the reflector320, it can be possible to facilitate even illumination. That is, in one example of an embodiment, by reflecting light from the light source300via the reflector320onto the second covering220even illumination (e.g., continuous lighting from top to bottom without shadows, interruption, etc.) may be achieved.

In one example of an embodiment, the reflector320may be fixably positioned during assembly to optimize reflection from the light source300onto any portion of the second covering220and/or any portion of the headrail110,110′. Alternatively, however, it is envisioned that the reflector320may be arranged and configured to be adjustable (e.g., movably positioned) relative to the second covering220and/or any portion of the headrail110,110′ to facilitate field adjustments.

In use, in one example of an embodiment, the architectural-structure covering100provides light from the light source300onto the second, reflective covering220and from the second, reflective covering220toward the interior space of the room in which the architectural-structure covering100is located. Thus arranged, to the extent that the second covering220is partially extended (e.g., to the extent that the second covering220is moved to an intermediate position between the retracted position and the fully extended position), the architectural-structure covering100will reflect (e.g., illuminate) light across the partially extended second covering220allowing the user to view through the remaining uncovered portions of the underlying architectural structure not covered by the second covering220(e.g., user can view through the window not covered by the second covering220).

That is, in one example of an embodiment, the upper or first portion of the architectural-structure covering100, to the extent that the first and second coverings120,220are extended, may provide light while the lower or second portion of the architectural-structure covering100, to the extent that the first and second coverings120,220are 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 source300to direct light onto a second, reflective covering220from, for example, above such as, for example, by positioning the light source300with 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 coverings120,220are extended, the user can enable portions of the architectural-structural covering100to be illuminated. For example, in applications where the underlying architectural structure is a window or an opening, as the first and second coverings120,220are extended, the user can enable view-through the underlying architectural structure while enabling portions of the architectural-structure covering100to be illuminated (e.g., the architectural-structure covering100is arranged and configured to only reflect (e.g., illuminate) light to the extent that the second, reflective covering220is extended). The light emitted from the light source300can be arranged and configured to be directed onto the second covering220, thus without extending the second covering220, the light emitted from the light source300will not be reflected towards the interior space of a room in which the architectural-structure covering is located.

In addition, the light source300and the second, reflective covering220may be arranged and configured to provide even distribution of light across the exposed (e.g., extended) surface area of the second covering220. That is, in one example of an embodiment, the architectural-structure covering100is arranged and configured to reflect light evenly across the entire cross-sectional area of the second covering220. Thus, with the second covering220extended to its fully extended position, the reflected light may be distributed across the entire extended length of the second covering220. However, by enabling the second covering220to be independently and separately movable relative to the first covering120, the user can control the amount, extent, etc. of the reflected light. For example, by only partially extending the second covering220, 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 covering220is extended, light will only be reflected or distributed across the cross-sectional area of the second covering220(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 covering220)).

In accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure, the architectural-structure covering100including deployment of the first and second coverings120,220and control of the light source300may 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 covering100via a hardwired connection. For example, as will be readily appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art, the architectural-structure covering100may 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 covering100may 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 coverings120,220(e.g., to extend and retract the first and second covering120,220), to turn ON and OFF the light source300, etc. In addition, the architectural-structure covering100can be programed to take specific actions throughout the day. For example, the architectural-structure covering100can be programmed to automatically turn ON the light source300at 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 coverings120,220, etc. In addition, the light source300may be arranged and configured to emit different color temperatures so that, for example, the light source300may be arranged and configured to mimic the color of the natural light throughout the day, alternatively the user could program the light source300to 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 covering120). For example, by controlling the color temperature of the light, the user could make the fabric appear different colors.

In one embodiment, the second covering220may 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 covering220may be manufactured from any suitable, reflective material now known or hereafter developed. For example, the second, reflective covering220may be manufactured from a material arranged and configured to reflect light. In one example of an embodiment, the second, reflective covering220may 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 0.90 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 covering220may be manufactured from a projection material such as, for example, StarBright CLR® (Ceiling Light Rejecting) material manufactured and sold by Elite Screens.

Similarly, the reflector320may be manufactured from any suitable material now known or hereafter developed. Alternatively, the reflector320can be made from any material and a reflective surface322can be applied to the reflector320, the reflective surface322may be manufactured from a material arranged and configured to reflect light. For example, the reflective surface322may be formed by a layer such as a tape, a reflective coating, a paint coating, etc. In one example of an embodiment, the reflector320be manufactured from a metallic material such as, for example, aluminum. The metallic reflector320may include a mil finish. Optionally, the metallic reflector320may include a reflective coating as needed. In an alternate embodiment, the reflector320may 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 toFIG.1, in one example of an embodiment, the first covering120of the architectural-structure covering100may be manufactured from a flexible material arranged and configured to be wound or unwound about the first rotatable member125. Alternatively, the first covering120may be manufactured from a flexible material arranged and configured to gather or stack adjacent to the first rotatable member125. For example, the first covering120may include a plurality of folds that are raised or lowered as lift cords are wrapped about or unwrapped from the first rotatable member125. The lift cords may be coupled to the first rotatable member125and may be operatively coupled to the first covering120, for example, a bottom rail122of the first covering120. Thereafter, rotation of the first rotatable member125in a first direction wraps the lift cords about the first rotatable member125causing the first covering120to retract adjacent to the first rotatable member125, while rotation in a second direction causes the lift cords to unwrap about the first rotatable member125causing the first covering120to move in an extended configuration. However, it will be appreciated that although illustrated and described in a particular form, the first covering120may be any type of covering now known or hereafter developed. For example, when in the retracted position, the first covering120may be arranged and configured to be wound about the first rotatable member125. Alternatively, the first covering120may be in the form of a cellular shade such as, for example, a honey-comb, etc.

Referring toFIG.1, in one example of an embodiment, as illustrated, the second covering220of the architectural-structure covering100may be wrapped around the second rotatable member225in the retracted position. For example, the second covering220may be manufactured from a flexible material arranged and configured to be wrapped about the second rotatable member225to retract the second covering220or unwrapped from the second rotatable member225to extend the second covering220. However, it will be appreciated that although illustrated and described in a particular form, the second covering220may be manufactured from other type of coverings. For example, in one embodiment, the second covering220may be arranged and configured to be stackable.

As previously mentioned, the first and second coverings120,220may be operatively associated with operating systems and/or operating elements to actuate movement of the first and second coverings120,220. 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 coverings120,220. 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 toFIGS.7A-7C, an alternate example of an embodiment of an architectural-structure covering500is illustrated. In use, the architectural-structure covering500may include a covering520. As illustrated inFIG.7A, the covering520may be in the form of a honeycomb shade. Alternatively, the covering520may be any now known or hereafter developed covering including, for example, a fabric covering, etc. Generally speaking, the covering520may be movable, for example, between an extended position and a retracted position, however for reasons that will become apparent, the covering520may be arranged and configured to remain relatively stationary.

In accordance with the embodiment ofFIGS.7A-7C, the architectural-structure covering500includes a light box530positioned behind or rearward of the covering520. In use, the light box530can be positioned within an opening formed in a wall. Alternatively, the light box530can be positioned against a wall (e.g., hung on a wall in a building). Thereafter, the covering520can be positioned in front of the light box530(e.g., the covering520can be positioned on an interior side of the light box530).

In one embodiment, the light box530may be in the form of a lighted (e.g., LED) flat panel. As such, the light box530may include a front cover or surface532, a rear wall or surface, and top, bottom, and first and second lateral surfaces or walls. In this manner, the light box530may take the form of a rectangle or square, although other shapes are envisioned. In addition, the light box530can have any size such as, for example, 2 ft×4 ft, 4 ft×4 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 toFIG.7C, lights (e.g., LEDs)540may be positioned on the longitudinal edges of the light box530. For example, the lights (e.g., LEDs) may take the form of low-voltage DC LEDs grouped together is series, typically in strings of 6 to 12 LEDs. In use, the lights (e.g., LEDs)540positioned along the longitudinal edges of the light box530may be arranged and configured so that the LEDs540progressively 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 LEDs540may be covered by a cover such as, for example, a milky white cover to conceal the LEDs540.

In use, the front cover or surface532can be translucent so that light emitted from within the light box530can be transmitted through the front cover or surface532. The rear wall or surface can be light-blocking, translucent or reflective depending on the application. Thus arranged, the light box530is arranged and configured to backlight the covering520.

In accordance with this embodiment, the architectural-structure covering500including the covering520and the light box530can be positioned anywhere to create an atmosphere mimicking day light. In particular, the architectural-structure covering500may be particularly useful in interior rooms, basements, or other areas devoid of any windows and natural day light. By incorporating the architectural-structure covering500including the covering520and the light box530, the impression of a window mimicking natural day light can be achieved.

Referring toFIGS.8A-8D, an alternate example of an embodiment of a light box630is illustrated. As illustrated, the light box630may include a reflective rear surface634disposed within the light box630. In addition, and/or alternatively, the light box630may include a front sheet632that may include a plurality of perforations635arranged and configured to enable each individual LED to be exposed thru the perforated front sheet632. Thus arranged, by incorporating the reflective rear surface634and/or the perforated front sheet632, 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 box630.

As illustrated, the LEDs (not shown) and corresponding perforation635can 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 perforations635can be provided in alternate configurations, numbers, etc.

Referring toFIGS.9A and9B, an alternate example of an embodiment of a light box730is illustrated. As illustrated, the light box730may include a front covering, cover or sheet732manufactured from a honeycomb covering. In use, the honeycomb covering may include a plurality of perforations735arranged 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 box730may include side lighting. That is, as illustrated, lighting strips (e.g., LEDs)740may be incorporated along, for example, the lateral side edges of the light box730. In this embodiment, light emitted from the lighting strips740may pass into the perforated honeycomb covering732and may pass through the individual perforations.

Referring toFIGS.10A and10B, an alternate example of an embodiment of an architectural-structure covering750is illustrated. In use, the architectural-structure covering750may include a covering760. The covering760may be any now known or hereafter developed covering including, for example, a decorative fabric covering, etc. Generally speaking, the covering760may be movable, for example, between an extended position and a retracted position, however for reasons that will become apparent, the covering760may be arranged and configured to remain relatively stationary.

In accordance with the embodiment ofFIGS.10A and10B, the architectural-structure covering750includes a light box765positioned behind or rearward of the covering760. In use, the light box765can be positioned within an opening formed in a wall. Alternatively, the light box765can be positioned against a wall (e.g., hung on a wall in a building). Thereafter, the covering760can be positioned in front of the light box765(e.g., the covering760can be positioned on an interior, room-facing side of the light box765).

In one embodiment, as illustrated, the light box765includes a front cover or surface768, a rear wall or surface770, and a light bar772positioned between the front cover768and rear wall770. The light box765may also include a bottom rail774and, optionally first and second lateral surfaces or walls. In this manner, the light box765may take the form of a rectangle or square, although other shapes are envisioned. In use, as illustrated, the light bar772may be positioned between the front cover768and the rear wall770along 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 surface768may be manufactured from a transparent or translucent material such as, for example, a shear fabric. The rear wall or surface770may be manufactured from a reflective material as described herein. The light bar772may 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 bar772can be transmitted through the front cover or surface768. The rear wall or surface770can 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 box765is arranged and configured to backlight the covering760.

Alternatively, in one embodiment, the light box765may 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 box765, 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.

In accordance with this embodiment, the architectural-structure covering750including the covering760and the light box765can be positioned anywhere to create an atmosphere mimicking day light. In particular, the architectural-structure covering750may be particularly useful in interior rooms, basements, or other areas devoid of any windows and natural day light. By incorporating the architectural-structure covering750including the covering760and the light box765, the impression of a window mimicking natural day light can be achieved.

Referring toFIGS.11A and11B, an alternate example of an embodiment of an architectural-structure covering775is illustrated. In use, the architectural-structure covering775may include a covering780. Similar to the embodiment described above in connection withFIGS.10A and10B, the covering780may be any now known or hereafter developed covering including, for example, a decorative fabric covering, etc. Generally speaking, the covering780may be movable, for example, between an extended position and a retracted position, however for reasons that will become apparent, the covering780may be arranged and configured to remain relatively stationary.

In accordance with the embodiment ofFIGS.11A and11B, the architectural-structure covering775includes a light box785positioned behind or rearward of the covering780. Similar to the embodiment described above in connection withFIGS.10A and10B, in use, the light box785can be positioned within an opening formed in a wall. Alternatively, the light box785can be positioned against a wall (e.g., hung on a wall in a building). Thereafter, the covering780can be positioned in front of the light box785(e.g., the covering780can be positioned on an interior, room-facing side of the light box785).

In one embodiment, as illustrated, the light box785may 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)785is arranged and configured to backlight the covering780. Alternatively, in one embodiment, it is envisioned that the light box785could be replaced with an image or pattern. In use, the covering780could 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 covering780could 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 covering775including the covering780and the light box (e.g., light panel)785can be positioned anywhere to create an atmosphere mimicking day light. In particular, the architectural-structure covering775may be particularly useful in interior rooms, basements, or other areas devoid of any windows and natural day light. By incorporating the architectural-structure covering775including the covering780and the light box (e.g., light panel)785, the impression of a window mimicking natural day light can be achieved.

Referring toFIGS.12A and12B, alternate examples of an embodiment of an architectural-structure covering600,700are illustrated. In use, the architectural-structure coverings600,700may include a covering620,720, respectively, movable between an extended position and a retracted position. For example, the covering620,720can 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 covering620,720may be any now known or hereafter developed covering including, for example, a fabric covering (as illustrated inFIG.12A), a honeycomb (as illustrated inFIG.12B), etc.

In accordance one or more aspects of the present disclosure, the architectural-structure coverings600,700include one or more light strips (e.g., LED strips)640,740disposed within one or more folds, cells, etc. of the covering620,720. Thus arranged, the light strips (e.g., LED strips)640,740provide illumination of the covering620,720. For example, as illustrated, the covering620,720is arranged and configured to provide lighting, for example, extending across the width of the covering, although it is envisioned that the light strips840can be disposed in alternate orientations such as, for example, vertically in a vertical covering820in a vertically suspended architectural-structure covering800as illustrated inFIG.12C.

In one embodiment, the light strips (e.g., LED strips)640,740,840may be in the form of a metal core print circuit board (PCB) with LEDs. Thus arranged, as illustrated inFIGS.12A-12C, the light strips (e.g., LED strips)640,740,840may 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)640,740,840may be disposed within the individual folds or cells of a honeycomb shade. In use, as illustrated, the light strips (e.g., LED strips)640,740,840may be disposed in each fold or cell of the covering620,720,820. Alternatively, the light strips (e.g., LED strips)640,740,840may be disposed in every other fold or cell of the covering620,720,820, every third fold or cell, etc.

In use, the light strips (e.g., LED strips)640,740,840may be coupled within the folds or cells of the covering620,720,820by 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 toFIGS.13A-13C, in accordance with another example of an embodiment of an architectural-structure covering900, one or more light strips (e.g., LEDs)940may be disposed within a headrail910. In use, the one or more light strips (e.g., LEDs)940may extend across a substantial width of the headrail910such as, for example, approximately ⅔ a width of the headrail910, although it is envisioned that the light strip (e.g., LEDs)940may extend more or less. In addition, and/or alternatively, the one or more light strips (e.g., LEDs)940may be positioned in front of the covering920, which may take the form of any suitable covering920now known or hereafter developed covering including, for example, a fabric covering, a honeycomb, etc. Thus arranged, the light strips (e.g., LEDs)940are arranged and configured to illuminate a front surface922of the covering920.

In addition, as illustrated inFIG.13C, in one embodiment, the architectural-structure covering900may also include a reflective rear covering950. For example, similar to the reflective rear covering previously described, the reflective rear covering950enables 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 inFIG.13C, the light strip (e.g., LEDs)940may be positioned in the headrail910between the front covering920and the reflective rear covering950such that light emitted from the light strip is reflected off the reflective rear covering toward the front covering920.

In use, the light strips (e.g., LED strips)940may 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 toFIGS.14A-14D, the covering1020may be cut, divided, separated, etc. into front and rear portions1022,1024. For example, as illustrated, in one embodiment, a honeycomb covering may be arranged and configured into front and rear portions1022,1024separated by a gap or space1026. In use, a light strip (e.g., LEDs)1040may be positioned in the headrail of the architectural-structure covering. Thus arranged, light may be emitted from the light strip (e.g., LEDs)1040into the gap or space1026positioned between the front and rear portions1022,1024of 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)1040may be positioned within each individual cell of the, for example, honeycomb covering1020. For example, a light strip (e.g., LEDs)1040may be positioned in the uppermost cell of the honeycomb covering1020, in between the front and rear portions1022,1024of the covering1020. Alternatively, light strips (e.g., LEDs)1040may be positioned within all, or substantially all, of the cells. In use, the light strips (e.g., LDs)1040may be positioned between the front and rear portions1022,1024of the covering1020in 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 3 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 circuitry 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 circuitry can be powered by, for example, Near-Filed charging devices such as, for example, NuIQ™ 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.

For the sake of convenience and clarity, referring toFIG.1, 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 covering100, each with respect to the geometry and orientation of the architectural-structure covering100as they appear inFIG.1. Said reference is intended to be non-limiting and is used herein merely to describe relationship between various components as illustrated inFIG.1.

Although a particular example of an architectural-structure covering100is shown inFIG.1, many different types and styles of architectural-structure coverings exist and can be employed in place of the example illustrated inFIG.1. 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 coverings120,220may 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. In other words, while illustrative embodiments of the disclosure have been described in detail herein, it is to be understood that the inventive concepts may be otherwise variously embodied and employed, and that the appended claims are intended to be construed to include such variations, except as limited by the prior art. As such, the present disclosure should not be limited to the specific illustrations and details described herein unless specifically claimed.

While the present disclosure refers to certain embodiments, numerous modifications, alterations, and changes to the described embodiments are possible without departing from the sphere and 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, and equivalents thereof.

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 and their equivalents.

As used herein, an element or step recited in the singular and proceeded with the word “a” or “an” should be understood as not excluding plural elements or steps, unless such exclusion is explicitly recited.

The phrases “at least one”, “one or more”, and “and/or”, as used herein, are open-ended 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.

The foregoing discussion has been presented for purposes of illustration and description and is not intended to limit the disclosure to the form or forms disclosed herein. For example, various features of the disclosure are grouped together in one or more aspects, embodiments, or configurations for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure. However, it should be understood that various features of the certain aspects, embodiments, or configurations of the disclosure may be combined in alternate aspects, embodiments, or configurations. Moreover, the following claims are hereby incorporated into this Detailed Description by this reference, with each claim standing on its own as a separate embodiment of the present disclosure.