Abstract: A temperature sensing system for sensing ambient temperature around a vehicle. The sensing system includes a temperature sensor, such as a thermistor or thermocouple, positioned within the antenna finial of a fixed-mast antenna of the vehicle. A sensor signal from the sensor is applied to a sensor circuit that includes suitable filtering components. The filtered sensor signal is then applied to a microcontroller where the signal is processed to display the exterior temperature on display within the vehicle passenger compartment. A sensor lead and a return lead are wrapped around the mast antenna to transfer the sensor signal from the sensor to the sensor circuit. The mast antenna is wrapped with a shrink-type tubing or covered with an epoxy-type coating to cover the sensor lead and return lead. The presence of the wires provides the added benefit of reducing wind noise traditionally associated with the antenna mast.

Abstract: A glass patch cellular antenna is provided which can be imprinted as a thin film element on the interior surface of an automobile window. The antenna is physically configured to serve as a coupling element for an optional antenna mast which can be mounted externally on the window opposite the antenna. As a thin film element, the antenna can be factory installed and prewired such that the automobile is cellular ready, in that the installation of an external mast is unnecessary to achieve suitable performance. Yet, an external mast can be readily coupled with the antenna in order to enhance the performance capability of the antenna.