Illuminated building shelter and method of operating an illuminated building shelter

Abstract

An illuminated architectural shield is disclosed. In one example embodiment, the architectural shield includes a light source configured to illuminate at least a portion of the architectural shield. The architectural shield may include a first shield and a second shield. The light source is configured to direct light onto the second shield, which is configured to cause reflection, redistribution, etc., and direct the received light toward an interior space of a room in which the architectural shield is located. Arranged in this manner, the architectural shield may be used to create, for example, a diffuse lighting effect.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Cross - Reference to Related Applications This application claims the benefit of the filing date of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 916,911, filed on October 18, 2019, entitled "Lighted Architectural - Structure Covering", and claims the benefit of the filing date of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 024,736, filed on May 14, 2020, entitled "Lighted Architectural - Structure Covering", the entire contents of each application being incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] The present disclosure generally relates to building enclosures, and more particularly to building enclosures that include a light source arranged and configured to illuminate a shielding portion of the building enclosure.

Background Art

[0003] Building enclosures for building openings and / or structures such as windows, doors, archways, portions of walls, etc. (without intending to limit, generically referred to as buildings) have taken many forms over the years. One known building enclosure includes a shield or shielding portion (not intended to be limiting herein and used interchangeably) such as a fabric that is movable between an extended position and a retracted position. For example, the shield can be moved between an extended position and a retracted position to cover and uncover the underlying building.

[0004] To move a shield between an extended position and a retracted position, some building shields include a rotatable member (e.g., a rod or roller). Rotation of the rotatable member in a first direction can retract the shield, and rotation of the rotatable member in a second, opposite direction can extend the shield. The shields of the building shield can be gathered adjacent to or stacked on the rotatable member, or wound around the rotatable member. For example, some retractable shields include a plurality of pleats that rise or fall as a lifting cord is wound around or unwound from the rotatable member. The lifting cord is coupled to the rotatable member and passes through or along the shield and can be coupled, for example, to a bottom rail. Thereafter, rotation of the rotatable member in the first direction winds the lifting cord around the rotatable member and retracts the shield adjacent to the rotatable member, and rotation in the second direction unwinds the lifting cord from the rotatable member and moves the shield to an extended configuration. Alternatively, in various embodiments, the shield can be wound around the rotatable member in the retracted position. For example, some retractable shields include a flexible shield suspended from the rotatable member. The shield can either be wound around the rotatable member to retract the shield or unwound from the rotatable member to extend the shield. Regardless of the form of the shield, rotation of the rotatable member generally causes movement of the shield of the building shield.

[0005] The building shelter may further include, for example, an operating system for actuating the movement of the rotatable member and thus the movement of the shelter of the building shelter. The operating system can be any suitable operating system known or developed in the future. For example, in some embodiments, the operating system is operably associated with operating elements such as, for example, cords, chains, tilt wands, etc. The operating elements can be operated by a human operator to move the shelter between an extended position and a retracted position. Alternatively, the operating system can include an electric controller for lowering or raising the shelter. For example, an electric drive motor (e.g., an electric motor) can be provided to move the shelter between an extended position and a retracted position. In one embodiment, the operating element can include, for example, a handheld remote control. In an alternative embodiment, the shelter can be moved by gripping and operating the bottom rail of the building shelter.

[0006] For example, the use of building shelters in homes, restaurants, companies, and other buildings is widespread. It can be beneficial to use a building shelter to provide one or more aesthetic effects in the evening and / or, for example, during the holding of an event. For example, it would be beneficial to enable the building shelter to be illuminated to provide lighting such as a diffused lighting effect, mood lighting, etc.

[0007] Regarding the above and other considerations, the features and / or aspects of the present disclosure may be useful.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0008] This summary is provided to introduce, in a simplified form, a selected choice of concepts that are further described below in the detailed description of the invention. This summary of the invention is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be helpful in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[0009] This specification discloses a building shield with lighting. The building shield may include a first shield movable between an extended position and a retracted position, a second shield movable between an extended position and a retracted position, and a light source for emitting light to at least a part of the building shield.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0010] In one example of an embodiment, the light source is arranged to direct light onto a second shield configured to cause reflection, redispersion, etc., and direct the received light toward the interior space of the room where the building shield is arranged.

[0011] In addition and / or alternatively, in one exemplary embodiment, the building shield may include a reflector that is illuminated, lit, and receives light from the light source, etc., and includes a reflector for directing light toward a second reflective shield. The reflector includes a reflective surface positioned adjacent to the light source for directing the received light toward the second reflective shield. The reflector may be positioned within a headrail.

[0012] In addition and / or alternatively, in one exemplary embodiment, the first shield and the second shield are each independently movable between their respective extended positions and retracted positions such that the positions of the first shield and the second shield can be positioned separately and independently.

[0013] In addition and / or alternatively, in an exemplary embodiment, the first shield and the second shield are configured to move together (e.g., simultaneously and / or to the same extent).

[0014] Additionally, and / or alternatively, in one exemplary embodiment, the building shield is arranged and configured to disperse light across the cross-sectional area of the exposed portion of the second reflective shield. That is, when the second reflective shield is partially extended, the light source is arranged and configured to illuminate only the partially exposed portion of the second reflective shield. By being arranged in this way, the building shield is arranged and configured so that a user can see a part of the structure that is not covered by the first shield and the second shield.

Brief Description of the Drawings

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DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0016] The drawings are not necessarily to scale. The drawings are merely illustrative and are not intended to depict specific parameters of the present disclosure. The drawings are intended to show exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure and should not, therefore, be regarded as limiting. In the drawings, like numbers represent like elements.

[0017] With reference to the accompanying drawings in which one or more aspects of a building enclosure are illustrated and described, various features, aspects, etc. of a building enclosure including a light source will be further described in detail below. It should be understood that the various features, aspects, etc. may be used independently of one another or in combination. It will be understood that a building enclosure as disclosed herein may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments described herein. Rather, these embodiments are presented so that this disclosure will convey to those skilled in the art a particular exemplification of aspects of a building enclosure. In the drawings, like numbers refer to like elements throughout the drawings unless otherwise specified.

[0018] As described herein, an "embodiment" (as shown in the accompanying drawings) can be an exemplary representation of an environment, article, or component in which the disclosed concept or feature can be provided or embodied, or a representation of a method in which only the concept or feature can be provided or embodied. However, such exemplified embodiments should be understood as examples (unless otherwise stated), and other ways of embodying the described concept or feature (e.g., as can be understood by those skilled in the art by learning the concept or feature from the present disclosure) are within the scope of the present disclosure. Additionally, the drawings may show one or more embodiments of a concept or feature together in one embodiment of an environment, article, or component incorporating such concept or feature, but such concepts or features should be understood as being separate and independent of each other (unless otherwise specified), and are shown together for convenience only and are not intended to limit that they exist or are used together. For example, a feature illustrated or described as part of one embodiment can be used separately or in combination with another embodiment to produce yet another embodiment. Accordingly, the subject matter of the present invention is intended to embrace modifications and variations such as are within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0019] As will be described in more detail below, a building shelter according to the present disclosure can include a light source arranged and configured to illuminate at least a portion of the building shelter. According to one aspect of the present disclosure, the light source can be arranged and configured to direct light onto a second shelter arranged and configured to reflect the received light.

[0020] Referring to FIG. 1, an example of an embodiment of a building shield 100 according to the present disclosure is shown. The building shield 100 may include a first shield 120 movable between an extended position and a retracted position (the positions illustrated in FIG. 1). For example, as illustrated in FIG. 1, the shield 120 may be extendable or retractable vertically (e.g., lowerable or raiseable vertically, respectively) between the extended position and the retracted position to cover and uncover the underlying building.

[0021] As shown, the building shield 100 may further include a head rail 110, which in the illustrated example of the embodiment is a housing having opposing end caps 112, 114 joined by a front, a back, and a top to form an open-bottom enclosure. The head rail 110 may further include any suitable mounting structure 116 for coupling the head rail 110 to a structure above or on top of a building, such as a wall, via mechanical fasteners such as screws, bolts. A particular example of the head rail 110 is shown in FIG. 1, but many different types and styles of head rails exist and may be employed in place of the head rail example of FIG. 1.

[0022] In use, the first shield 120 may be operably associated with an operating system and / or operating elements to effect movement of the first shield 120 between the extended position and the retracted position. In an example of an embodiment, the building shield 100 may include a first rotatable member 125 (FIGS. 3 and 4). In use, the first rotatable member 125 is operably associated with the first shield 120. In the illustrated embodiment including the head rail, the head rail 110 is arranged and configured to receive the first rotatable member 125. The first rotatable member 125 may be rotatably coupled between the end caps 112, 114. In use, rotation of the first rotatable member 125 in a first direction may retract the first shield 120, and rotation of the first rotatable member 125 in a second, opposite direction may extend the first shield 120.

[0023] As further shown in FIG. 1, the building shield 100 may further include a second shield 220 that is movable between an extended position and a retracted position (exemplarily, the position shown in FIG. 1). As shown, the second shield 220 is positioned behind the first shield 220 (for example, the first shield 120 is positioned closer to the side facing the room of the building shield 100 as compared to the second shield 220).

[0024] In use, the second shield 220 may be operably associated with an operating system and / or operating elements to effect movement of the second shield 220 between the extended position and the retracted position. In an example of one embodiment, the building shield 100 may include a second rotatable member 225 (FIGS. 3 and 4). In use, the second rotatable member 225 is operably associated with the second shield 220. In the illustrated embodiment including the head rail, the head rail 110 is arranged and configured to receive the second rotatable member 225. In use, similar to the operation of the first rotatable member 125, rotation of the second rotatable member 225 in a first direction may retract the second shield 220, and rotation of the second rotatable member 225 in a second opposite direction may extend the second shield 220.

[0025] Arranged in this way, the first shield 120 and the second shield 220 are separately and independently movable (for example, can independently move up or down) such that the positions of the first shield 120 and the second shield 220 can be adjusted separately and independently.

[0026] Referring to FIG. 2, an example of an embodiment of a headrail 110 is shown that includes a housing 111 having opposing end caps 112, 114 for forming an open-bottom enclosure according to one aspect of the present disclosure. The illustrated embodiment of the headrail 110 is an example of an embodiment of a headrail that can be used in combination with the building shelter 100 shown in FIG. 1. As generally shown, the headrail 110 can include first and second sections, partitions, portions, attachment regions, etc. 130, 140 (used herein with the same meaning) for positioning a first rotatable member 125 and a second rotatable member 225, respectively. Here, for the purpose of explaining the present disclosure, general aspects, features, etc. related to the second shelter 220 will be described in detail. Therefore, for the sake of brevity, the operation of the first shelter 120 will be omitted from this specification. For additional information regarding the headrail, specifically an example of an embodiment of the first portion 130 of the headrail, reference is made to U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 747831, filed on January 21, 2020, entitled "Headrail for an Architectual-Structure Covering". The entire content thereof is incorporated herein by reference. However, as described above, any suitable headrail may be used, and the present disclosure should not be limited to the specific structure or details of the headrail unless specifically claimed. For example, referring to FIG. 4, an alternative example of a headrail 110' that can be used in combination with the building shelter 100 shown in FIG. 1 is shown. For further information regarding the headrail 110', reference is made to U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 743578, filed on June 18, 2015, entitled "Blind Assembly with Two Blind Head Rail". The entire content thereof is incorporated herein by reference.

[0027] Referring to FIGS. 3 and 4, in the illustrated embodiment, the second portion 140 of the headrails 110, 110' includes a second rotatable member 225. Additionally, the second portion 140 of the headrails 110, 110' includes sufficient space to accommodate the second shield 220 when the second shield 220 is wound around the second rotatable member 225 when the second shield 220 is in the retracted position. On the other hand, the second portion 140 can be further arranged and configured to minimize the height and depth of the headrails 110, 110'.

[0028] In use, the first rotatable member 125 and the second rotatable member 225 are movably independent of each other (e.g., can move up or down independently of each other) so that the positions of the first shield 120 and the second shield 220 can be adjusted independently of each other. Arranged in this way, the second shield 220 is movable between an extended position and a retracted position independently of the first shield 120.

[0029] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, referring to FIGS. 3 and 4, the building shield 100 includes a light source 300 for directing light onto the second shield 220 when the second shield 220 or at least a portion thereof is extended. In use, in one example of an embodiment, the building shield 100 emits light from the light source 300 onto the second shield 220, and the second shield 220 is arranged and configured to reflect the light received from the light source 300 towards the interior space of the room in which the building shield 100 is disposed. Arranged in this way, within the range in which the second shield 220 is partially extended (e.g., the range in which the second shield 220 is moved to an intermediate position between the retracted position and the fully extended position), the building shield 100 reflects (e.g., illuminates) light over the entire partially extended second shield 220. For example, as illustrated, in one example of an embodiment utilizing headrails, the light source 300 for directing light onto the second shield 220 when the second shield 220 or at least a portion thereof extends from the headrails 110, 110' can be positioned within the second portion 140 of the headrails 110, 110'.

[0030] In one example of an embodiment, as generally shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the light source 300 can be in the form of a plurality of light-emitting diodes arranged and configured within a strip extending along the lengths of the head rails 110, 110', although it is envisioned that the light source can take any other suitable form. For example, the light source (e.g., an LED) can be arranged and configured in an array. Thus, it should be understood that the light source (e.g., an LED) can be provided in any suitable form and / or configuration arranged and configured to provide a desired intensity and uniformity of light output. Additionally, and / or alternatively, the light source can be arranged and configured to provide a variable hue, color tone, color temperature, color rendering index (CRI), etc. (e.g., the light source can be arranged and configured to provide, for example, warm / cool light).

[0031] In use, the light source 300 is arranged and configured to direct emitted light onto the second shield 220 when the second shield 220 is extended or at least partially extended. Thereafter, the second shield 220 is arranged and configured to disperse the light from the light source 300 into the interior space of the room in which the building shield is located. In one example of an embodiment, the second shield 220 is manufactured from a reflective material arranged and configured to reflect the emitted light from the light source 300 into the interior space of the room in which the building shield is located (e.g., the second reflective shield 220 is arranged and configured to reflect the emitted light from the light source 300). Additionally, in one embodiment, the second shield 220 can be manufactured from a flexible material, whereby the second shield 220 is extensible and retractable, for example, rollable and unrolled, stackable, etc.

[0032] When arranged in this way, during use, the first shielding body 120 can be moved between an extended position and a retracted position as desired. For example, the first shielding body 120 is arranged and configured to operate as any known building shielding body. For example, the first shielding body 120 can be extended for providing privacy, hiding the underlying building, modifying the inflow of natural light, etc. In addition, the first shielding body 120 can be retracted for exposing the underlying building, adjusting the field of view, etc.

[0033] Thereafter, the second shielding body 220 can be extended and the light source 300 can be activated to illuminate the building shielding body 100 (for example, the light source 300 is illuminated to direct light onto the second shielding body 220, and the second shielding body 220 is arranged and configured to reflect light towards the internal space of the room where the building shielding body 100 is positioned, so that the building shielding body 100 or at least the extended or exposed portion of the second shielding body 220 appears to be illuminated). In this way, the building shielding body 100 can be arranged and configured to emit light. For example, in the evening hours, the first shielding body 120 can be at least partially extended, the second shielding body 220 can be partially extended, and the light source 300 can be turned on to provide illumination (for example, the shielded portion of the building shielding body 100 can be illuminated instead of indoor lighting).

[0034] In an example of an embodiment, the first shield 120 and the second shield 220 may be arranged and configured to extend and retract substantially integrally. That is, for example, the first rotatable member 125 and the second rotatable member 225 are operable separately and independently, but in an example of an embodiment, the first rotatable member 125 and the second rotatable member 225 are arranged and configured to rotate such that the first shield 120 and the second shield 220 extend and retract integrally (e.g., extend and retract simultaneously and / or to the same extent). By being arranged in this way, the first shield 120 and the second shield 220 can move to any point between the retracted position and the extended position, so that the user can select the degree to which the building 100 is covered by the first shield 120 and the second shield 220 (e.g., the user can see the scenery through a part of the window not covered by the partially extended shield).

[0035] The light source 300 can be attached, coupled, etc. by any suitable mechanism known or developed in the future. For example, in relation to the head rails 110, 110', the light source 300 can be attached to the lower side of the head rails 110, 110', and in one embodiment, the light source 300 can be adhered, fastened, etc. to the head rails 110, 110', but any suitable mechanism for coupling the light source 300 to the head rails 110, 110' can be used. Alternatively, in relation to embodiments without a head rail, the light source 300 can be directly attached to the building by any suitable mechanism, for example.

[0036] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, referring to FIGS. 3 to 6, the building shield 100 may further include a reflector 320. The light source 300 may be coupled to the reflector 320 so as to emit light onto the surface of the reflector 320. In an embodiment where the light source 300 is coupled to the reflector 320, the reflector 320 may be arranged and configured as a heat sink that extracts heat from the light source (e.g., LED) 300 during operation. The light source (e.g., LED) 300 may be attached to the reflector 320 (e.g., heat sink) via a thermally conductive tape, a thermally conductive adhesive, etc. In use, the reflector 320 helps to extract heat from the light source 300. In an example of one embodiment, as shown, the reflector 320 may be positioned within the head rails 110, 110' for an embodiment including head rails. Although not shown, as will be understood by those skilled in the art, the light source (e.g., LED) 300 may be associated with a lens, a collimator, etc. In one embodiment, each LED 300 may be associated with an individual lens, collimator, etc. In another embodiment, a single lens, collimator, etc. may be used for a plurality of LEDs 300. In use, lenses, collimators, etc. may be utilized to change the direction of light and / or improve uniform light dispersion.

[0037] In use, the reflector 320 can be arranged and configured to reflect and direct the emitted light from the light source 300 towards the second reflective shield 220. For example, in an example of an embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the reflector 320 can include a base 321 and a reflective surface 322. The base 321 can be arranged and configured to receive and mount the light source 300. The reflective surface 322 can be arranged and configured to extend from the base 321 such that the reflective surface 322 is positioned adjacent to and / or below the light source 300 in use. By being arranged in this way, in use, the emitted light from the light source 300 is directed onto the reflective surface 322 and then directed towards the second reflective shield 220. In an example of an embodiment, the reflective surface 322 can be, for example, parabolic, cylindrical, arcuate such as partially spherical, curved, etc., but the reflective surface can have any shape arranged and configured to reflect the emitted light from the light source 300 towards the second reflective shield 220. In one embodiment, referring to FIGS. 3, 5 and 6, the reflective surface 322 preferably has a parabolic shape. By utilizing the parabolic shape, it has been found that the uniformity of the emitted light is improved over the entire shield when the shield is in the extended position. In this way, the emitted light from the light source 300 is more uniformly dispersed, and as a result, the occurrence of spotting (e.g., the occurrence of dark spots) can be avoided.

[0038] In one embodiment where the headrail is used, the reflector 320 can be coupled to the headrails 110, 110' by any suitable mechanism known or developed in the future. For example, in one embodiment, the reflector 320 can extend over the entire length of the headrails 110, 110', although the reflector 320 can also be installed intermittently (e.g., using a plurality of individual reflectors) along the length of the headrail or can cover only a portion of the length of the headrail. In embodiments where the headrail is used, the reflector 320 can be coupled to the opposing end caps 112, 114. For example, the reflector 320 includes an opening 324 formed therein for receiving a protrusion, fastener, etc. 115 (FIG. 3) that extends inwardly, and the protrusion, fastener, etc. 115 is dimensioned and arranged to be received by the opening 324 formed in the reflector 320.

[0039] The reflector 320 can be sized and shaped to reflect light from the light source 300 onto any portion of the second shield 220 and / or any portion of the headrails 110, 110'. As will be appreciated, it may be desirable to provide uniform illumination of the building shield 100 along its entire extended length. Thus, by adjusting the method of light reflection by the reflector 320, uniform illumination can be facilitated. That is, in one example of an embodiment, uniform illumination (e.g., continuous illumination from top to bottom without shadows, interruptions, etc.) can be achieved by reflecting light from the light source 300 through the reflector 320 onto the second shield 220.

[0040] In one example of an embodiment, the reflector 320 can be positioned fixably during assembly to optimize the reflection of light from the light source 300 onto any portion of the second shield 220 and / or any portion of the headrails 110, 110'. However, alternatively, the reflector 320 can be arranged and configured to be adjustable (e.g., positioned movably) with respect to any portion of the second shield 220 and / or the headrails 110, 110' to facilitate on-site adjustment.

[0041] In use, in one example of an embodiment, the building shield 100 emits light from the light source 300 onto the second reflective shield 220 and emits it from the second reflective shield 220 towards the interior space of the room in which the building shield 100 is disposed. By being arranged in this way, within the range in which the second shield 220 is partially extended (for example, within the range in which the second shield 220 is moved to an intermediate position between the retracted position and the fully extended position), the building shield 100 reflects (for example, illuminates) light over the entire partially extended second shield 220, whereby a user can view a scene through the remaining unshielded portion of the building that is not covered by the second shield 220 (for example, the user can view a scene through a window that is not shielded by the second shield 220).

[0042] That is, in one example of an embodiment, the upper or first portion of the building shield 100 can emit light within the range in which the first shield 120 and the second shield 220 are extended, and the lower or second portion of the building shield 100 can provide a view within the range in which the first shield 120 and the second shield 220 are not fully extended. This provides the user with a number of options for determining the amount of light emitted. Additionally, for example, by positioning the light source 300 together with a headrail, or by arranging the light source 300 to direct light onto the second reflective shield 220 from above, for example, advantages over side illumination of the building shield can be obtained (for example, side illumination can illuminate the entire length of the building below regardless of the positioning of the shield).

[0043] Accordingly, in relation to an example of an embodiment of the present disclosure, when the first shield 120 and the second shield 220 are extended, a user can illuminate a part of the building shield 100. For example, in applications where the building below has windows or openings, when the first shield 120 and the second shield 220 are extended, the user can view the scenery through the building below and at the same time illuminate a part of the building shield 100 (for example, the building shield 100 is arranged and configured to reflect (for example, illuminate) light only within the range where the second reflective shield 220 is extended). The light emitted from the light source 300 can be arranged and configured to be directed onto the second shield 220. Thus, if the second shield 220 is not extended, the light emitted from the light source 300 is not reflected towards the interior space of the room where the building shield is arranged.

[0044] In addition, the light source 300 and the second reflective shield 220 can be arranged and configured to uniformly disperse light over the exposed (for example, extended) surface area of the second shield 220. That is, in an example of one embodiment, the building shield 100 is arranged and configured to reflect light uniformly over the entire cross-sectional area of the second shield 220. Thus, when the second shield 220 is extended to its full extended position, the reflected light can be dispersed over the entire extended length of the second shield 220. However, by making the second shield 220 movable independently and separately relative to the first shield 120, the user can control the amount, range, etc. of the reflected light. For example, the user can control the range in which the light is reflected by extending the second shield 220 only partially (for example, the user can control the range of the reflected light by controlling the length by which the second shield 220 is extended, and the light will be reflected or dispersed only over the cross-sectional area of the second shield 220 (for example, the light will be reflected or dispersed only over the cross-sectional area of the extended portion of the second reflective shield, and the light will not be reflected beyond the extended cross-sectional area of the second reflective shield 220).

[0045] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a building shield 100 including the deployment of a first shield 120 and a second shield 220 and the control of a light source 300 can be remotely controlled, for example, via a wireless remote device, although it is envisioned that the remote device can be coupled to the building shield 100 via a wired connection. For example, as will be readily understood by those skilled in the art, the building shield 100 can be operably associated with an APP that operates on a remote device such as a smartphone, tablet, computer, etc. Alternatively, the building shield 100 can be operably associated with a dedicated remote control device, wall switch, etc. In use, the remote device can be programmed, for example, to control the position of the first shield 120 and the second shield 220 (e.g., to extend and retract the first shield 120 and the second shield 220), to turn the light source 300 on and off, etc. Further, the building shield 100 can be programmed to perform certain operations throughout the day. For example, the building shield 100 can be programmed to automatically turn on the light source 300 at a specific time, such as in the morning, to wake the user, or to turn it off at a specific time to extend or retract the shields 120, 220, etc. Additionally, the light source 300 can be configured to emit different color temperatures, for example, such that the light source 300 mimics the color of natural light throughout the day, or alternatively, the user can program the light source 300 to provide a desired color temperature, etc. Further, by controlling the color temperature of the emitted light, the user can also control, change, etc. the appearance of the shield (e.g., the first shield 120). For example, by controlling the color temperature of the light, the user can make the fabric appear to be a different color.

[0046] In one embodiment, the second shield 220 can include a bottom rail, and additional light sources can be positioned along the bottom rail. In use, the additional light sources can be directed upward such that, in the fully deployed position, the additional light sources can facilitate uniform light dispersion throughout the shield. In one embodiment, power can be supplied to the additional light sources via a power line (coupled to, integrated with, etc. an operating cord).

[0047] The second shield 220 can be manufactured from any suitable reflective material known or developed in the future. For example, the second reflective shield 220 can be manufactured from a material arranged and configured to reflect light. In an example of one embodiment, the second reflective shield 220 can be manufactured from a non-woven material arranged and configured to reflect light. In one embodiment, the fabric material can be arranged and configured to have a metal coating and / or a protective transparent film or coating. In use, the film or coating is arranged and configured to reflect light. In one embodiment, the film or coating can have an optical density of 90 or more to prevent light from passing through the film or coating from the outside. Alternatively, in another embodiment, the fabric can include reflective yarns arranged and configured to reflect light toward the shield. Also, the reflective yarns can include a light-blocking structure to prevent light from entering from the outside. In one embodiment, the second reflective shield 220 can be manufactured from a projection material such as, for example, the StarBright CLR (registered trademark) (Ceiling Light Rejecting) material manufactured and sold by Elite Screens.

[0048] Similarly, the reflector 320 can be manufactured from any suitable material known or developed in the future. Alternatively, the reflector 320 can be made of any material, and the reflective surface 322 can be attached to the reflector 320, and the reflective surface 322 can be manufactured from a material arranged and configured to reflect light. For example, the reflective surface 322 can be formed by a layer such as tape, a reflective coating, a paint coating, etc. In an example of one embodiment, the reflector 320 can be manufactured from a metallic material such as aluminum. The metallic reflector 320 can include a mill finish. Optionally, the metallic reflector 320 can include a reflective coating as needed. In an alternative form, the reflector 320 can be manufactured from a translucent film. Arranged in this way, the building shield can give the impression that the building is in use at night when the shield is illuminated, while making the window appear to emit light to the internal occupants. During the day, the translucent film can be an alternative shade or can be used in combination with the front shade to further dim the light without completely turning it off.

[0049] Referring to FIG. 1, in an example of one embodiment, the first shield 120 of the building shield 100 can be manufactured from a flexible material arranged to be wound up or unwound on the first rotatable member 125. Alternatively, the first shield 120 can be manufactured from a flexible material arranged to approach or laminate adjacent to the first rotatable member 125. For example, the first shield 120 can include a plurality of pleats that rise or fall when the lifting cord is wound around the first rotatable member 125 or unwound from the first rotatable member 125. The lifting cord can be coupled to the first rotatable member 125 and operably coupled to the first shield 120, for example, to the bottom rail 122 of the first shield 120. Thereafter, rotation of the first rotatable member 125 in a first direction winds the lifting cord around the first rotatable member 125 and retracts the first shield 120 adjacent to the first rotatable member 125, and rotation in a second direction unwinds the lifting cord from the first rotatable member 125 and moves the first shield 120 to an extended configuration. However, it will be understood that the first shield 120, although illustrated and described in a particular configuration, can be any type of shield known or developed in the future. For example, when in the retracted position, the first shield 120 can be arranged to be wound around the first rotatable member 125. Alternatively, the first shield 120 can be in the form of a cellular shade, such as a honeycomb shape, for example.

[0050] Referring to FIG. 1, in an example of one embodiment, as illustrated, the second shield 220 of the building shield 100 can be wound around the second rotatable member 225 in a retracted position. For example, the second shield 220 can be manufactured from a flexible material arranged to be wound around the second rotatable member 225 to retract the second shield 220 or unwound from the second rotatable member 225 to extend the second shield 220. However, it will be understood that the second shield 220, although illustrated and described in a particular configuration, can be manufactured from other types of shields. For example, in one embodiment, the second shield 220 can be arranged to be stackable.

[0051] As described above, the first shield 120 and the second shield 220 can be operably associated with an operating system and / or operating elements to effect movement of the first shield 120 and the second shield 220. The operating system and / or operating elements can be any suitable operating system and / or operating elements known or later developed to effect movement of the first shield 120 and the second shield 220. For example, the operating system and / or elements can take any suitable form (e.g., clutches, gears, motors, drive trains, and / or gear trains, etc.), and can include any type of control device (e.g., continuous loops, hoist cords, chains, ropes, motors, etc.). Thus, the present disclosure should not be limited by the details of the first shield as described and illustrated herein, unless specifically claimed.

[0052] Referring to FIGS. 7A - 7C, an alternative of one embodiment of the building shield 500 is shown. In use, the building shield 500 can include a shield 520. As shown in FIG. 7A, the shield 520 can be in the form of a honeycomb shade. Alternatively, the shield 520 can be any shield known or later developed, including, for example, a fabric shield. Generally, the shield 520 can be movable, for example, between an extended position and a retracted position, but for reasons described below, the shield 520 can be arranged and configured to be relatively stationary.

[0053] According to the embodiment of FIGS. 7A - 7C, the building shield 500 includes a light box 530 positioned behind or rearward of the shield 520. In use, the light box 530 can be positioned within an opening formed in a wall. Alternatively, the light box 530 can be positioned relative to the wall (e.g., mounted on a wall within a building). Thereafter, the shield 520 can be positioned in front of the light box 530 (e.g., the shield 520 can be positioned on the interior side of the light box 530).

[0054] In one embodiment, the light box 530 can be in the form of an illuminated (e.g., LED) flat panel. Thus, the light box 530 can include a front cover or front face 532, a rear wall or rear face, and a top face, a bottom face, and first and second side faces or walls. In this way, the light box 530 can take the form of a rectangle or a square, although other shapes are envisioned. Additionally, the light box 530 can have any size, such as, for example, 2 feet (60.96 cm) × 4 feet (121.92 cm), 4 feet × 4 feet, etc. For example, in one embodiment, the LED flat panel can be composed of an aluminum frame or an extruded product forming the frame. In use, referring to FIG. 7C, lights (e.g., LEDs) 540 can be positioned at the longitudinal edges of the light box 530. For example, the lights (e.g., LEDs) can take the form of low voltage DC LED groups (typically a string of 6 - 12 LEDs). In use, the lights (e.g., LEDs) 540 positioned along the longitudinal edges of the light box 530 can be arranged such that as the shield is lowered, the LEDs 540 gradually turn on so that the visible light LEDs are not visible to the user (e.g., the longitudinal LEDs are arranged to be partially on so that only a portion of the LEDs corresponding to the length of the extended shield turn on). Additionally and / or alternatively, the LEDs 540 can be covered with a cover, such as a milky white cover, for example, to hide the LEDs 540.

[0055] In use, the front cover or front face 532 can be translucent so that light emitted from within the light box 530 can pass through the front cover or front face 532. The rear wall or rear face can have light blocking, light transmitting, or reflective properties depending on the application. Arranged in this way, the light box 530 is arranged to backlight the shield 520.

[0056] According to this embodiment, the building shield 500 including the shield 520 and the light box 530 can be positioned anywhere to create an atmosphere that mimics daylight. In particular, the building shield 500 can be particularly useful indoors, in basements, or in other areas without windows and natural daylight. By incorporating the building shield 500 including the shield 520 and the light box 530, an impression of a window that mimics natural daylight can be realized.

[0057] Referring to FIGS. 8A-8D, an alternative of one embodiment of the light box 630 is shown. As illustrated, the light box 630 can include a reflective rear surface 634 disposed within the light box 630. Additionally and / or alternatively, the light box 630 can include a front sheet 632 that includes a plurality of perforations 635 arranged and configured to expose individual LEDs through the perforated front sheet 632. By being arranged in this way, more uniform light dispersion can be achieved by incorporating the reflective rear surface 634 and / or the perforated front sheet 632. In one embodiment, as described above, each LED can include a lens arranged and configured to expand the divergence or dispersion of the emitted light to improve the uniformity of the light dispersion and reduce the overall thickness of the light box 630.

[0058] As illustrated, the LEDs (not shown) and the corresponding perforations 635 can be provided in an equidistant array such that light from the individual LEDs can pass through the individual perforations, although it is envisioned that the LEDs and the corresponding perforations 635 can be provided in alternative configurations, numbers, etc.

[0059] Referring to FIGS. 9A and 9B, an alternative of an embodiment of the light box 730 is shown. As illustrated, the light box 730 may include a front shield, cover or sheet 732 manufactured from a honeycomb shield. In use, the honeycomb shield may include a plurality of perforations 735 arranged configured to expose individual LEDs through the perforated honeycomb shield. Further, the inner surface of the cells of the honeycomb shield may include a reflective surface. Further, as illustrated, the light box 730 may include side illumination. That is, as illustrated, an illumination strip (e.g., an LED) 740 may be incorporated along, for example, the side edge of the light box 730. In this embodiment, the light emitted from the illumination strip 740 may enter the perforated honeycomb shield 732 and pass through the individual perforations.

[0060] Referring to FIGS. 10A and 10B, an alternative of an embodiment of the building shield 750 is shown. In use, the building shield 750 may include a shield 760. The shield 760 can be any known or later developed shield, including, for example, a fabric shield. Generally, the shield 760 may be movable, for example, between an extended position and a retracted position, but for reasons described below, the shield 760 may be arranged configured to be relatively stationary.

[0061] According to the embodiment of FIGS. 10A and 10B, the building shield 750 includes a light box 765 positioned behind or rearward of the shield 760. In use, the light box 765 may be positioned within an opening formed in the wall. Alternatively, the light box 765 may be positioned relative to the wall (e.g., mounted on a wall within a building). Thereafter, the shield 760 may be positioned in front of the light box 765 (e.g., the shield 760 may be positioned on the side facing the interior of the light box 765).

[0062] In one embodiment, as shown, the light box 765 includes a front cover or front face 768, a rear wall or rear face 770, and a light bar 772 positioned between the front cover 768 and the rear wall 770. The light box 765 may further include a bottom rail 774 and optionally first and second side faces or side walls. In this way, the light box 765 may take the form of a rectangle or a square, although other shapes are envisioned. In use, as shown, the light bar 772 may be positioned along their upper edges between the front cover 768 and the rear wall 770, although other configurations are envisioned, such as along their lower edges, along their lateral edges, etc.

[0063] In use, the front cover or front face 768 may be manufactured from a transparent or translucent material such as, for example, shear fabric. The rear wall or rear face 770 may be manufactured from a reflective material as described herein. The light bar 772 may be configured as a plug-in that can be inserted into a standard electrical outlet, although other configurations are envisioned. When arranged in this way, the light emitted from the light bar 772 can pass through the front cover or front face 768. The rear wall or rear face 770 may be reflective, or alternatively, it is envisioned that the rear wall or rear face may be light-blocking or light-transmissive depending on the application. When arranged in this way, the light box 765 is arranged to backlight the shield 760.

[0064] Alternatively, in one embodiment, the light box 765 may be in the form of an edge-lit light guide, such as, for example, ACRYLITE® LED Edge Lit Acrylic. In use, light is supplied to the edge of a highly transparent material and is emitted uniformly across its surface. In use, instead of the light box 765, the edge-lit light guide may be arranged across the entire window. When arranged in this way, the daytime visibility is maintained, and at night, with the shield fully extended, the acrylic light guide may be turned on.

[0065] According to this embodiment, the building shield 750 including the shield 760 and the light box 765 can be positioned anywhere to create an atmosphere that mimics daylight. In particular, the building shield 750 can be particularly useful indoors, in basements, or in other areas without windows and natural daylight. By incorporating the building shield 750 including the shield 760 and the light box 765, an impression of a window that mimics natural daylight can be realized.

[0066] Referring to FIGS. 11A and 11B, an alternative example of an embodiment of the building shield 775 is shown. In use, the building shield 775 may include a shield 780. Similar to the embodiments described above in connection with FIGS. 10A and 10B, the shield 780 can be any known or later-developed shield, including, for example, a decorative fabric shield. Generally, the shield 780 can be movable, for example, between an extended position and a retracted position, but for reasons described below, the shield 780 can be arranged and configured to be relatively stationary.

[0067] According to the embodiment of FIGS. 11A and 11B, the building shield 775 includes a light box 785 positioned behind or rearward of the shield 780. Similar to the embodiments described above in connection with FIGS. 10A and 10B, in use, the light box 785 can be positioned within an opening formed in the wall. Alternatively, the light box 785 can be positioned relative to the wall (for example, mounted on a wall within a building). Thereafter, the shield 780 can be positioned in front of the light box 785 (for example, the shield 780 can be positioned on the side facing the interior of the light box 785).

[0068] In one embodiment, as shown, the light box 785 can be in the form of a light panel such as, for example, an LED flat panel manufactured by Nanoleaf or an OLED panel manufactured by Lumiblade. In one embodiment, as shown, the light panel can be arranged and configured as a plug-in that can be plugged into a standard electrical outlet, although other configurations are envisioned. By being arranged in this way, the light box (e.g., the light panel) 785 is arranged and configured to backlight the shield 780. Alternatively, in one embodiment, it is envisioned that the light box 785 can be replaced with an image or pattern. In use, the shield 780 can be raised and lowered to expose the underlying image. For example, a flat panel TV, a Nanoleaf panel, an OLED panel, etc. can be provided. In use, the shield 780 can be raised and lowered to expose the underlying image, e.g., a flat panel TV.

[0069] According to this embodiment, the building shield 775 including the shield 780 and the light box (e.g., the light panel) 785 can be positioned anywhere to create an atmosphere that mimics daylight. In particular, the building shield 775 can be particularly useful indoors, in basements, or in other areas without windows and natural daylight. By incorporating the building shield 775 including the shield 780 and the light box (e.g., the light panel) 785, the impression of a window that mimics natural daylight can be realized.

[0070] Referring to FIGS. 12A and 12B, an alternative example of an embodiment of building enclosures 600, 700 is shown. In use, building enclosures 600, 700 may each include a shield 620, 720 movable between an extended position and a retracted position. For example, shields 620, 720 may be vertically extensible or retractable (e.g., vertically lowerable or raiseable, respectively) between an extended position and a retracted position to cover and expose the underlying building. Shields 620, 720 can be any known or later developed shield, including, for example, a fabric shield (as shown in FIG. 12A), a honeycomb shield (as shown in FIG. 12B), and the like.

[0071] According to one or more aspects of the present disclosure, building enclosures 600, 700 include one or more light strips (e.g., LED strips) 640, 740 disposed within one or more pleats, cells, etc. of shields 620, 720. When arranged in this way, light strips (e.g., LED strips) 640, 740 provide illumination for shields 620, 720. For example, as shown, shields 620, 720 are arranged and configured to provide illumination extending, for example, in the width direction of the shield, although it is envisioned that light strip 840 may be arranged in an alternative orientation (e.g., vertically within a pendant shield 820 within a pendant building enclosure 800), as shown in FIG. 12C.

[0072] In one embodiment, the light strips (e.g., LED strips) 640, 740, 840 can be in the form of a metal-core printed circuit board (PCB) having LEDs. Arranged in this way, as shown in FIGS. 12A - 12C, the light strips (e.g., LED strips) 640, 740, 840 can be arranged, for example, within individual pleats or cells of a fabric-based shade such as a Roman shade. Alternatively, as shown, the light strips (e.g., LED strips) 640, 740, 840 can be arranged within individual pleats or cells of a honeycomb shade. In use, as shown, the light strips (e.g., LED strips) 640, 740, 840 can be arranged within each pleat or cell of the shades 620, 720, 820. Alternatively, the light strips (e.g., LED strips) 640, 740, 840 can be arranged within every other pleat or cell, every second pleat or cell of the shades 620, 720, 820.

[0073] In use, the light strips (e.g., LED strips) 640, 740, 840 can be coupled within the pleats or cells of the shades 620, 720, 820 by any suitable mechanism known or hereafter developed, including, for example, adhesives, tapes, etc.

[0074] As described above and as will be readily understood by those skilled in the art, the building shield may further include a head rail, which may be in the form of a housing having opposing end caps joined by a front, a back, and a top to form an open bottom enclosure. Referring to FIGS. 13A - 13C, according to another example of an embodiment of the building shield 900, one or more light strips (e.g., LEDs) 940 may be disposed within the head rail 910. In use, one or more light strips (e.g., LEDs) 940 may extend across a sufficient width of the head rail 910 (e.g., about 2 / 3 of the width of the head rail 910), although it is contemplated that the light strip (e.g., LED) 940 may extend longer or shorter. Additionally and / or alternatively, one or more light strips (e.g., LEDs) 940 may be positioned in front of the shield 920, which may take the form of any suitable shield 920, known or hereafter developed, including, for example, a fabric shield, a honeycomb shield, etc. When arranged in this way, the light strip (e.g., LED) 940 is arranged and configured to illuminate the front face 922 of the shield 920.

[0075] Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 13C, in one embodiment, the building shield 900 may further include a reflective rear shield 950. For example, similar to the reflective rear shield described above, the reflective rear shield 950 may be provided with a surface, coating, etc. that can improve the reflection of light, resulting in a desired degree of reflection of the emitted light. As shown in FIG. 13C, the light strip (e.g., LED) 940 may be positioned within the head rail 910 between the front shield 920 and the reflective rear shield 950 such that light emitted from the light strip is reflected from the reflective rear shield towards the front shield 920.

[0076] In use, the light strip (e.g., LED strip) 940 may be coupled within the head rail by any suitable mechanism, known or hereafter developed, including, for example, fasteners, clips, adhesives, tapes, etc.

[0077] Additionally, and / or alternatively, referring to FIGS. 14A - 14D, the shield 1020 can be cut, divided, separated, etc. into a front portion 1022 and a rear portion 1024. For example, as illustrated, in one embodiment, the honeycomb shield can be arranged and configured into a front portion 1022 and a rear portion 1024 separated by a gap or space 1026. In use, a light strip (e.g., an LED) 1040 can be positioned within the headrail of the building shield. When arranged in this way, light can be emitted from the light strip (e.g., an LED) 1040 into the gap or space 1026 positioned between the front portion 1022 and the rear portion 1024 of the honeycomb shade. When arranged in this way, better and more uniform light dispersion can be achieved compared to the case of emitting light from the headrail to the front surface of the shield.

[0078] Furthermore, in addition, one or more light strips (e.g., LEDs) 1040 can be positioned, for example, within the individual cells of the honeycomb shield 1020. For example, the light strip (e.g., an LED) 1040 can be positioned within the uppermost cell of the honeycomb shield 1020 between the front portion 1022 and the rear portion 1024 of the honeycomb shield. Alternatively, the light strip (e.g., an LED) 1040 can be positioned within all or substantially all of the cells. In use, the light strip (e.g., an LD) 1040 can be positioned in a downward orientation between the front portion 1022 and the rear portion 1024 of the shield 1020 (e.g., the LEDs are arranged and configured to emit light downward), although other configurations are also envisioned.

[0079] In addition and / or alternatively, a reflective surface may be positioned within each cell to facilitate better and more uniform light dispersion. As described above, the reflective materials, reflective surfaces, reflective shields, etc. (not intended to be limiting and used interchangeably herein) described and used within this specification may be used in any of the above-described embodiments, whether or not they are described. Additionally, the reflective surface may be manufactured from a material configured to reflect light. The reflective surface may be any suitable material known or later developed, including the materials described hereinabove. For example, as described above, the reflective surface may be manufactured from a non-woven material configured to reflect light.

[0080] A light strip (e.g., an LED) can be any suitable lighting product arranged and configured to emit light. For example, the light strip can be in the form of a flexible strip of LEDs such as, for example, the Flexible OLED strip made by Lyteus, Brite3 or Curve made by OLED Works, and Luflex Flexible made by LG Displays, or an OLED strip or panel. Alternatively, the light strip can be in the form of a flexible LED strip or panel such as, for example, Clyde made by Design LED, a flexible LED manufactured via 3D printing such as the Mesh String LED System made by Traxon Technologies or Nth light made by SP Technology. Alternatively, the light strip can be in the form of an LEC / EL flat panel type strip such as, for example, pFy-p2 made by LunaLEC, Glow-Tec made by InvoisCoat GmbH, or EL Panels made by Ellumiglow. Alternatively, the light strip can be in the form of a lighted textile such as an optical fiber such as, for example, Lightex made by Brochier Technologies or Fibrance made by Versalume. Alternatively, the light strip can be in the form of a dark material or light emission within the strip such as, for example, White / White PS Series Ink made by AllureGlow or Invisible GID made by GloMania. Alternatively, the light strip can be in the form of a light-emitting panel such as, for example, foldable OLEDs made by Konica Minolta or OVJP Printing made by Universal Display.

[0081] In use, a building enclosure including a light strip(s) and corresponding circuitry can be powered by any suitable mechanism, known or later developed, including, for example, wired connection, plug-in, battery-powered, etc. Alternatively, a building enclosure including a light strip(s) and corresponding circuitry can be powered by a near-field charging device such as, for example, NuIQTM Technology Platform by NuCurrent or Equus34 by Solace, or via a far-field charging device such as, for example, Powerspot by Powercast.

[0082] For convenience and clarity, referring to FIG. 1, all references or terms in this specification for all directions such as, for example, "face", "front", "rear", "back", "top", "bottom", "up", "down", "vertical", "horizontal", "inner", "outer", "proximal", "distal", "upper", "lower", "above", "below", "left", "right", "lateral", "longitudinal", "higher", "lower", "vertical", "horizontal", "radial", "axial", "clockwise", and "counterclockwise" are used only for identification purposes to assist the reader's understanding of the present disclosure and are not, in particular, limiting with respect to the position, orientation, or use of the present disclosure. These references are used in this specification to describe the relative placement and orientation of the various components and parts of the building enclosure 100, each of which relates to the geometric shape and orientation of the building enclosure 100 as seen in FIG. 1. The foregoing references are intended to be non-limiting and are used in this specification only to describe the relationships between the various components as shown in FIG. 1.

[0083] A specific example of a building shelter 100 is shown in FIG. 1, but there are many different types and styles of building shelters that can be employed instead of the example shown in FIG. 1. Thus, the features of the present disclosure may be used in combination with any suitable building shelter known or developed in the future, and thus it should be understood that the features of the present disclosure should not be limited to any particular type of building shelter. For example, it should be understood that shelters 120, 220 can be any suitable shelters known or developed in the future. In addition, the various features described herein can be used separately or together in any combination. The consideration of any embodiment is only intended to be illustrative and is not intended to suggest that the scope of the present disclosure, including the claims, is limited to these embodiments. In other words, although exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure have been described in detail herein, the inventive concept can be embodied and utilized in various other ways, and the appended claims are intended to be construed to include such variations, except as limited by the prior art. Thus, the present disclosure should not be limited to the specific exemplifications and details described herein unless specifically claimed.

[0084] The present disclosure refers to specific embodiments, but many modifications, alterations, and changes are possible to the described embodiments without departing from the field and scope of the present disclosure as defined in the appended claims (s). Thus, the present disclosure is not limited to the described embodiments and is intended to have the full scope defined by the language of the following claims and their equivalents.

[0085] As described herein, an "embodiment" (as shown in the accompanying drawings) can be an exemplary representation of an environment, article, or component in which the disclosed concept or feature can be provided or embodied, or a representation of a method in which only the concept or feature can be provided or embodied. However, such illustrated embodiments should be understood as examples (unless otherwise stated), and other ways of embodying the described concept or feature (e.g., as may be understood by those skilled in the art by learning the concept or feature from the present disclosure) are within the scope of the present disclosure. Additionally, the drawings may show one or more embodiments of a concept or feature together in one embodiment of an environment, article, or component incorporating such concept or feature, but such concepts or features should be understood as being (unless otherwise specified) separate and independent of each other, shown together for convenience only, and not intended to limit that they exist or be used together. For example, a feature illustrated or described as part of one embodiment can be used separately or in combination with another embodiment to create yet another embodiment. Accordingly, the subject matter of the present invention is intended to embrace modifications and variations such as those within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0086] As used herein, an element or step recited in the singular and preceded by the word "a" or "an" should be understood as not excluding a plurality of elements or steps unless explicitly recited to the contrary.

[0087] As used herein, the phrases "at least one", "one or more", and "and / or" 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 with substantially the same meaning herein. References to connection (e.g., engagement, attachment, coupling, connection, and joining) should be construed broadly and can include intermediate members between sets of elements and intermediate members for movement between elements, unless otherwise indicated. Thus, a reference to connection does not necessarily mean that two elements are directly connected and in a fixed relationship to each other. References to identification (e.g., primary, secondary, first, second, third, fourth, etc.) are not intended to imply importance or priority and are used to distinguish one feature from another. The drawings are for illustrative purposes only, and the dimensions, positions, orders, and relative sizes reflected in the drawings attached hereto can vary.

[0088] The foregoing discussion has been presented for purposes of illustration and description but is not intended to limit the disclosure to the one or more forms disclosed herein. For example, various features of the disclosure may be grouped together in one or more aspects, embodiments, or configurations to streamline the disclosure. However, it should be understood that the various features of a particular aspect, embodiment, or configuration of the disclosure may be combined in alternative aspects, embodiments, or configurations. Further, the following claims are incorporated by reference into the forms for carrying out the invention, and each claim stands on its own as a separate embodiment of the disclosure.

Claims

1. A first shield movable between an extended position and a retracted position, a second reflective shield movable between an extended position and a retracted position, a light source for directing light toward the second reflective shield to illuminate an exposed portion of the second reflective shield and comprising, the first shield and the second reflective shield are arranged and configured to move integrally, a building shield.

2. a first rotatable member operably coupled to the first shield, a second rotatable member operably coupled to the second reflective shield and further comprising the building shield according to claim 1.

3. further comprising a head rail, and the first rotatable member and the second rotatable member are at least partially positioned together with the head rail, the building shield according to claim 2.

4. the first shield and the second reflective shield are arranged and configured to extend and retract simultaneously, the building shield according to claim 1.

5. the first shield and the second reflective shield are arranged and configured to extend to the same position, the building shield according to claim 1.

6. the light source includes an array of light emitting diodes, the building shield according to claim 1.

7. the light source extends in the width direction of the second reflective shield, the building shield according to claim 1.

8. the second reflective shield is arranged and configured to disperse emitted light toward the interior space of the room, the building shield according to claim 1.

9. the building shield is arranged and configured to disperse light over the area of the exposed portion of the second reflective shield, the building shield according to claim 1.

10. when the second reflective shield is partially extended, the light source is arranged and configured to illuminate only the partially extended portion of the second reflective shield, the building shield according to claim 1.

11. further comprising a reflector for receiving light from the light source and directing the light toward the second reflective shield, the building shield according to claim 1.

12. the reflector is positioned within the head rail, the building shield according to claim 11.

13. the light source is coupled to the reflector, the building shield according to claim 11.

14. The building shield according to claim 11, wherein the reflector includes a reflecting surface positioned adjacent to the light source in order to direct the received light toward the second reflective shield.

15. A method of operating an illuminated building shield, comprising: selectively moving a first shield to an extended position; selectively moving a second reflective shield to an extended position; selectively lighting a light source, the light source illuminating an exposed portion of the second reflective shield, a lighting step and wherein the first shield and the second reflective shield are moved integrally. A method of operation.

16. The method according to claim 15, wherein the first shield and the second reflective shield are arranged to extend and retract simultaneously.

17. The method according to claim 15, wherein the first shield and the second reflective shield are moved to the same extent.

18. The method according to claim 15, wherein the step of selectively lighting the light source includes illuminating only the exposed portion of the second reflective shield.

19. The step of illuminating the exposed portion of the second reflective shield includes the light source emitting light onto a reflector, the reflector receiving light from the light source and directing the light toward the second reflective shield. The method according to claim 16.

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