Glass panel assembly for a vehicle roof

Abstract

A glass panel assembly for use in a roof of a vehicle includes a glass panel, a frame, and an elongated lighting device. The glass panel includes an interior major surface, and the interior major surface of the glass panel is configured to face a passenger compartment of the vehicle. The frame is adhered to the interior major surface and includes a shaped element. The shaped element is one of a recess and a protrusion. The elongated lighting device is coupled to the frame by engaging a mating shape of the shaped element. The lighting device is configured to directly illuminate at least a portion of the passenger compartment.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a glass panel assembly for a vehicle roof and a method for manufacturing such a glass panel assembly. In particular, the present invention relates to providing lighting devices on the glass panel assembly. Background Art

[0002] Glass panels for use in vehicle roofs are well known. For example, a glass sheet-like closure member can be movably positioned over an opening in the vehicle roof. The closure member can be tilted to provide an inclined position suitable, for example, for ventilation purposes, wherein a rear edge portion of the closure member is tilted from the plane of the vehicle roof. From this inclined position, the closure member can be slid over another component of the vehicle roof, thereby exposing the opening in the roof.

[0003] It is known to provide lighting elements in such glass panel assemblies. For example, it is known to provide light guides in frame components, such as the guide frame of a sun visor. Furthermore, it is known to provide light in a light-conducting layer of a laminated glass panel, wherein the light then propagates in such a light-conducting layer and is coupled out into the passenger compartment of the vehicle via patterned structures provided on the surface of the light-conducting layer.

[0004] Although the above-mentioned known lighting solutions can provide suitable interior lighting effects, these known solutions may be undesirable. For example, it may be relatively difficult and complicated to achieve uniform light distribution for the light conducting layer, while the use of light guides in the frame components requires additional space.

[0005] Another known solution is to embed light-conducting components, such as light guides, into a foam or injection-molded backing on the glass panel, while providing a cavity in the backing for mounting the light source. This arrangement can be cost-effective and simple. Embedding the light-conducting components into a backing requires applying a backing onto or above the light-conducting components. During such embedding, the surface of the light-conducting components can be easily damaged. However, any damage to the surface of the light-conducting components will negatively impact light outcoupling and, therefore, the appearance of the light in the vehicle's passenger compartment. Furthermore, in the presence of such sensitive components, controlling the appearance and finish of the backing can be difficult, necessitating expensive and safe finishing processes during manufacturing. Summary of the Invention

[0006] It is an object of the present invention to provide a simple and cost-effective lighting solution in a glass panel assembly.

[0007] The object is achieved in a glass panel assembly for a vehicle roof according to the present application. The glass panel assembly according to the present invention comprises a glass panel, a frame, and an elongated lighting device. The glass panel comprises an inner main surface configured to point toward the passenger compartment of the vehicle. The frame is adhered to the inner main surface and comprises a profiled element. The profiled element is one of a groove and a protrusion. The elongated lighting device is mechanically held and retained in position on the frame by engaging a mating shape of the profiled element. Furthermore, the lighting device is configured to directly illuminate at least a portion of the passenger compartment of the vehicle.

[0008] According to the inventive concept of the present invention, the lighting device is mounted on the frame, such as on a foam backing or an injection molded backing, by engaging the matching shape of the lighting device with the molded elements of the frame. Therefore, when used in this article, no frame is required to support the glass panel. The term "frame" refers to any kind of structure adhered to the glass panel. Of course, the frame can be intended and constructed to support the glass panel or increase the rigidity of the glass panel, but the frame can also have, for example, only an aesthetic function or a protective function. Therefore, the lighting device is mounted on the inner main surface of the glass panel and only requires a small height, that is, space. If the glass panel is arranged movably, the lighting device moves together with the glass panel.

[0009] The frame is applied separately and adheres to the glass panel. The adhesion of the frame can be achieved directly or indirectly. For example, if the frame includes a rigid support element such as a metal or plastic element, the rigid support element can adhere indirectly by using an adhesive. If the frame is at least partially formed by a polymer-based composition (such as a foam backing or an injection molded backing) of solidification, the frame can be formed on the glass panel as known in the art, thereby directly adhering to the glass panel. In another embodiment, the frame can be formed by a rigid support element embedded in a polymer-based composition of the solidification, wherein the polymer-based composition of the solidification can be used to adhere the rigid support element to the glass panel, or the rigid support can be first adhered to the glass panel, then embedded in the polymer-based composition when applying the polymer-based composition.

[0010] By providing suitable forming elements on or in the frame, the elongated lighting device can be easily mechanically coupled to the inner main surface of the glass panel by using a matching shape. The forming element and the matching shape provide mechanical coupling, for example, to keep the matching shape in place by clamping force or any other mechanical retaining force using, for example, a clamping device or a shape-matching arrangement. After forming the forming element, the matching shape is coupled to the forming element. The matching shape and the forming element can be coupled to each other by applying a pressing force / pushing force, wherein the flexibility of one or both of the forming element and the matching shape forms the matching of the forming element and the matching shape. When installed, the forming element and the matching shape are kept in place by a mechanical retaining force. However, in one embodiment, the matching shape can be detachably retained by the forming element. For example, applying a larger force that exceeds the force applied in normal operating state may cause the matching shape to be released from the forming element, which depends on the shape of the forming element and the matching shape.

[0011] The mating shape can be the shape of an optical element included in the lighting device, or the mating shape can be the shape of a dedicated component of the lighting device. The shapes of the shaped element and the mating shape are such that when they are engaged, the lighting device is fully fixed in place and the shaped element and the mating shape remain in their relative positions to each other in normal operating conditions, for example in the driving condition of the vehicle, as described above. For example, a form-fitting arrangement can be applied, or high friction (i.e. clamping) can be provided between the shaped element and the mating shape. Any other suitable shape that provides resistance to movement between the frame and the lighting device can be applied equally well. A person skilled in the art will easily understand the possibility of providing the shaped element with a suitable shape and the mating shape with a corresponding shape.

[0012] Thus, the sensitive optical elements of the lighting device are protected from potentially damaging manufacturing steps.The frame is first adhered to the glass panel and, in a later step, the lighting device is easily coupled to the frame.

[0013] The lighting device is arranged and constructed to directly illuminate at least a portion of the passenger compartment of the vehicle. The passenger compartment of the vehicle is the interior space of the vehicle, which is constructed and intended to accommodate the driver or any passenger, but does not include any recess or space that is in open contact with such a passenger compartment on the one hand but is not intended to be accessible to the passengers in normal use on the other hand. When used in this article, directly illuminating is intended to indicate that a significant portion of the light rays emitted from the lighting device reaches the passenger compartment to illuminate the passenger compartment. In other words, no additional elements are required or needed inside or outside the passenger compartment for functionally illuminating the passenger compartment, such as reflective elements or any other elements for bending the light rays into the passenger compartment to prevent light loss and reduce the amount of space required for the lighting device. Of course, if desired, when used in the present invention, the lighting device may include any optically functional element for shaping a beam of light rays emitted by a light source.

[0014] In one embodiment, the rigid support element comprises an elongated groove, and the rigid support element is embedded in a cured polymer-based composition so that the elongated groove is open and forms the forming element of the frame. For example, the rigid support element can be provided with a C-shaped portion in its cross-section, thereby providing an open channel along its length. Embedding the C-shaped portion in the polymer-based composition without covering the opening of the C-shaped portion provides an open, recessed channel as a forming element. A light guide can be arranged in the recessed channel. The opening of the C-shaped portion allows light to exit the open channel and illuminate a portion of the passenger compartment of the vehicle.

[0015] According to the present invention, the shape of the recessed channel is adapted to the lighting device, and in particular to the mating shape of the lighting device. For example, the C-shaped shape and the mating shape can be adapted to provide a clamping force to each other. In another example, a retaining portion can be provided in the recessed channel so that the mating shape can be pushed through the opening of the C-shaped portion and beyond the retaining portion. Thus, the retaining portion prevents the mating portion from moving backward out of the recessed channel. It will be readily understood by those skilled in the art that many other possible shapes are available and suitable for achieving the retaining function between the profiled element and the mating shape.

[0016] The inner surface of the C-shaped portion may be adapted to support a lighting function and to support the lighting device in relation to the lighting function. For example, if the lighting device comprises a light guide to be arranged in a recessed channel formed by the C-shaped portion, the inner surface of the channel may be treated to be reflective in order to reflect any light towards the opening of the channel and therefore towards the passenger compartment.

[0017] In the above examples, a recessed open channel is described. However, the present invention is not limited to such an embodiment. The rigid support element may also provide a localized recess in which a pin-shaped mating shape can be retained. In another embodiment, the profiled element of the frame may be a protruding pin-shaped element, wherein the mating shape includes a recess configured to mate with the pin-shaped protrusion.

[0018] Typically, in one embodiment, the forming element is elongated and extends along the length direction of at least a portion of the frame. This can be achieved using a rigid support element as described above, or this can be achieved by selecting a suitable shape of the outer surface of the frame formed by the solidified polymer-based composition. For example, elongated grooves such as recessed open channels can be provided in the frame along the length direction of at least a portion of the frame, or elongated protrusions such as prominent ribs can be formed on the frame along the length direction of at least a portion of the frame. It should be noted that due to the inherent flexibility in the manufacture and application of such a frame, the frame formed by the solidified polymer-based composition may easily have many different shapes in or on its surface.

[0019] In certain embodiments, the profiled element is an elongated groove extending along the length of at least a portion of the frame between the inner major surface and the frame. The profiled element is formed so that the mating shape of the lighting device is coupled to and retained in the elongated groove formed between the frame and the glass panel. This may be desirable to achieve a minimal height for the lighting function. In this embodiment, additional features may be applied. For example, a reflective layer may be applied to the inner major surface of the glass panel in the elongated groove to reflect light toward the passenger compartment of the vehicle.

[0020] In one embodiment, the profiled element and the mating shape have corresponding shapes to provide a form-fitting engagement. As mentioned above, many shapes can be suitable for providing a retaining function. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that a preferred embodiment can be a form-fitting shape of the profiled element and the mating shape.

[0021] As described above as an exemplary embodiment, the elongated lighting device may include an elongated light guide, for example having a light source, such as an LED, at its end for providing light in the light guide. In such an embodiment of the lighting device, the profiled element may be a groove and the elongated light guide may be clamped into such a groove.

[0022] In one embodiment, the elongated lighting device includes a carrier, and the carrier includes a coupling element. The coupling element is provided with the mating shape. The carrier can take many forms. For example, the carrier can include a cover, and the lighting element, such as a light guide, is retained in the carrier. Thus, the carrier is provided with the mating shape to couple to the frame and be retained in position.

[0023] In one embodiment, the elongated lighting device includes an array of light sources and a diffusing element positioned between the array of light sources and the passenger compartment of the vehicle. Instead of the light guide described above, the lighting device can include a flexible or rigid substrate with a plurality of, for example, LEDs (or similar small light sources). To provide a uniform light distribution, the individual light spots of the individual light sources can be diffused by applying a diffusing element. However, the present invention is not limited to lighting devices that provide a uniform light distribution. Therefore, individual light spots can also be provided within the scope of the present invention, if desired.

[0024] In a second aspect, the present invention provides a method of manufacturing a glass panel assembly for use in a roof of a vehicle. The method comprises the steps of providing a glass panel, the glass panel comprising an interior major surface, wherein the interior major surface of the glass panel is configured to point toward a passenger compartment of the vehicle; adhering a frame to the interior major surface, wherein the frame comprises a profiled element, the profiled element being one of a groove and a protrusion; providing an elongated lighting device, wherein the lighting device comprises a mating shape; and engaging the mating shape of the elongated lighting device with the profiled element to couple the elongated lighting device to the frame to mount the elongated lighting device on the glass panel. The lighting device is configured to directly illuminate at least a portion of the passenger compartment when mounted.

[0025] In a third aspect of the present invention, an elongated lighting device is provided. The lighting device comprises a carrier, and the carrier comprises a coupling element. The coupling element comprises a mating shape, wherein the mating shape is configured to engage with a profiled element of a frame of a glass panel assembly according to the present invention to mount and retain the elongated lighting device on an interior major surface of the glass panel assembly. Such an elongated lighting device can be supplied separately to an automobile manufacturer for mounting on a glass panel assembly according to the present invention, and can even be sold separately to replace a defective lighting device or to provide a customizable lighting effect. Utilizing the simple and easy coupling and retaining mechanism according to the present invention, the lighting device can indeed be easily replaced to achieve customization.

[0026] In a fourth aspect, the present invention provides a glass panel assembly for use in a roof of a vehicle, wherein the glass panel assembly comprises a glass panel and a frame. The glass panel comprises an inner main surface, wherein the inner main surface of the glass panel is configured to point toward the passenger compartment of the vehicle. The frame is adhered to the inner main surface and comprises a forming element. The forming element is one of a groove and a protrusion and is configured to engage a mating shape of an elongated lighting device to mount the lighting device on the inner main surface, wherein the lighting device is configured to directly illuminate at least a portion of the passenger compartment. In one embodiment, the glass panel assembly may further comprise an electrical connector for electrically connecting to the lighting device to supply power to the lighting device. For example, the glass panel assembly according to the fourth aspect may be configured to receive a lighting device according to the third aspect of the present invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0027] Further scope of applicability of the present invention will become apparent from the detailed description given below. However, it should be understood that while indicating embodiments of the present invention, the detailed description and specific examples are given by way of illustration only, as various changes and modifications within the scope of the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art from this detailed description with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0028] Figure 1A A perspective view showing a vehicle roof with an open roof assembly;

[0029] Figure 1B Show Figure 1A Exploded view of the open roof assembly;

[0030] Figure 2A Showing a bottom view of a glass panel for use in a glass panel assembly according to the present invention;

[0031] Figure 2B Show Figure 2A a detailed view of a portion of a bottom view of the glass panel;

[0032] Figure 3A A cross-sectional view showing a first embodiment of a glass panel assembly according to the present invention;

[0033] Figure 3B Show Figure 3A a detailed view of a portion of a cross-sectional view;

[0034] Figure 3C Show Figure 3A a detailed view of a portion of a cross-sectional view;

[0035] Figure 4A cross-sectional view showing a second embodiment of a glass panel assembly according to the present invention;

[0036] Figure 5 A cross-sectional view showing a third embodiment of a glass panel assembly according to the present invention;

[0037] FIG6 shows a cross-sectional view of a fourth embodiment of a glass panel assembly according to the present invention;

[0038] FIG7A shows a cross-sectional view of a fifth embodiment of a glass panel assembly according to the present invention;

[0039] Figure 7B A cross-sectional view showing a sixth embodiment of a glass panel assembly according to the present invention;

[0040] Figure 8A A cross-sectional view showing a seventh embodiment of a glass panel assembly according to the present invention; and

[0041] Figure 8B The seventh embodiment is shown along the Figure 8A Another cross-sectional view along line BB is shown in FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0042] The present invention will now be described with reference to the drawings, wherein the same reference numerals are used throughout the several views to identify the same or similar elements.

[0043] Figure 1A A vehicle roof 1 is shown having an open roof assembly disposed therein. The open roof assembly includes a movable panel 2a and a fixed panel 2b. The movable panel 2a is also referred to as a closure member because it is movable over a first roof opening 3a to open and close the first roof opening 3a. A wind deflector 4 is disposed in front of the first roof opening 3a.

[0044] In the illustrated embodiment, the movable panel 2a can be in a closed position, which is a position in which the movable panel 2a is arranged above the first roof opening 3a and closes the first roof opening 3a and is therefore generally arranged in the plane of the vehicle roof 1. Further, the movable panel 2a can be in an inclined position, which is a position in which the rear end RE of the movable panel 2a is raised compared to the closed position, while the front end FE of the movable panel 2a is still in the closed position. Further, the movable panel 2a can be in an open position, which is a position in which the movable panel 2a slides open and the first roof opening 3a is partially or completely exposed.

[0045] It should be noted that the vehicle roof 1 shown corresponds to a passenger car. However, the invention is not limited to passenger cars. Any other kind of vehicle that can be provided with a movable panel is also contemplated.

[0046] Figure 1B Shown as Figure 1A The same vehicle roof with panels 2a and 2b is shown in FIG. In particular, although Figure 1A The open roof assembly is shown in the open position, but Figure 1B is an exploded view of the open roof assembly in the closed position. Figure 1B In this exploded view of the , the presence of a second roof opening 3b is shown. The first and second roof openings 3a, 3b are provided in a frame 5 of the open roof assembly. An edge 5a of the frame 5 defines the first roof opening 3a.

[0047] The second roof opening 3b is arranged below the fixed panel 2b so that light can enter the vehicle passenger compartment through the fixed panel 2b, assuming that the fixed panel 2b is a glass panel or a similar transparent panel, for example made of plastic material or any other suitable material. The second roof opening 3b and the transparent or translucent fixed panel 2b are optional and can be omitted in another embodiment of the open roof assembly.

[0048] The wind deflector 4 is typically a flexible material, such as a woven or non-woven fabric with through holes arranged therein, or a mesh or net. The flexible material is supported by a support structure 4a (e.g., a rod-like or tubular structure), which is directly or indirectly hingedly connected to the frame 5 at a hinge 4b.

[0049] The wind deflector 4 is arranged in front of the first roof opening 3a and accommodates airflow when the movable panel 2a is in the open position. In its raised position, the wind deflector 4 reduces inconvenient noise caused by airflow during driving. When the movable panel 2a is in the closed position or the tilted position, the wind deflector 4 is held downwardly below the front end FE of the movable panel 2a.

[0050] Typically, when the movable panel 2a slides to the open position, the wind deflector 4 is raised by the spring force, and when the movable panel 2a slides back into its closed position, the wind deflector 4 is pushed downward by the movable panel 2a. Figure 1A In FIG, the movable panel 2a is shown in the open position and the wind deflector 4 is shown in the raised position. Figure 1B In FIG. 1 , the movable panel 2 a is shown in a closed position and the wind deflector 4 is correspondingly shown in a position in which it is held downwards.

[0051] Figure 1BFurther shown is a drive assembly having a first guide assembly 6a, a second guide assembly 6b, a first drive cable 7, and a second drive cable 8. The first and second guide assemblies 6a, 6b are arranged on respective side ends SE of the movable panel 2a and may each include a guide and a mechanism. The guide is coupled to the frame 5, while the mechanism includes movable components and is slidably movable within the guide. The first and second drive cables 7, 8 are disposed between the mechanisms of the respective guide assemblies 6a, 6b and a drive motor 9.

[0052] The drive cables 7 and 8 connect the drive motors 9 to the mechanisms of the corresponding guide assemblies 6a and 6b so that when the drive motors 9 are operated, the mechanisms begin to move. In particular, the core of the drive cables 7 and 8 is moved by the drive motors 9 to push or pull the mechanisms of the corresponding guides 6a and 6b. Such drive assemblies are well known in the art and are therefore not further explained herein. However, any other suitable drive assembly may also be adopted without departing from the scope of the present invention. Moreover, in a particular embodiment, the drive motors may be operatively arranged between the corresponding guides and the corresponding mechanisms of the guide assemblies 6a and 6b, and in such an embodiment, the drive assembly may be completely omitted.

[0053] In the illustrated embodiment, the guide assemblies 6a, 6b can start moving by raising the rear end RE of the movable panel 2a, so that the movable panel 2a is in a tilted position. Then, from the tilted position, the guide assemblies 6a, 6b can start sliding to put the movable panel 2a in an open position. However, the present invention is not limited to such an embodiment. For example, in another embodiment, the movable panel 2a can be moved to the tilted position by raising the rear end RE, and the open position can be reached by first lowering the rear end RE and then sliding the movable panel 2a under the fixed panel 2b or under any other structure or element arranged behind the rear end RE of the movable panel 2a. In another exemplary embodiment, the movable panel 2a can only be movable between a closed position and a tilted position or between a closed position and an open position.

[0054] In the illustrated embodiment, the drive motor 9 is mounted near or below the front end FE of the movable panel 2a at a recess 10. In another embodiment, the drive motor 9 may be positioned at any other suitable location or orientation. For example, the drive motor 9 may be arranged near or below the rear end RE of the movable panel 2a or below the fixed panel 2b.

[0055] The control unit 11 is shown schematically and is operatively coupled to the drive motor 9. The control unit 11 can be any type of processing unit, as is well known to those skilled in the art: a software-controlled processing unit or a dedicated processing unit, such as an ASIC. The control unit 11 can be a standalone control unit, or it can be operatively coupled to another control unit, such as a multi-purpose, general-purpose vehicle control unit. In yet another embodiment, the control unit 11 can be embedded in or be part of such a general-purpose vehicle control unit. In essence, the control unit 11 can be implemented by any control unit that is suitable, capable, and configured to operate the drive motor 9 and, therefore, the movable roof assembly.

[0056] Figure 2A Schematically illustrating a bottom view of a movably arranged glass panel 2a, the view showing the inner major surface 20 of the glass panel 2a. The inner major surface 20 is provided with an adhered frame 22 arranged at the periphery of the glass panel 2a. For example, the frame 22 can be formed by a polyurethane (PU) foam composition or an injection molding composition, which is applied in a liquid state and solidified on the inner major surface 20 of the glass panel 2a. In the PU backing, elements such as metal frame elements can be provided to increase the rigidity of the glass panel 2a or to mount elements to the glass panel 2a. Further, the PU backing can be used to provide an aesthetically pleasing finish to the glass panel 2a.

[0057] It should be noted that the present invention is not limited to the use of a frame based on a PU composition. For example, the PU composition may alternatively or additionally be composed of another polymer-based and curable composition applied and adhered to the glass panel 2a. Additionally or alternatively, as described above, the frame 22 may be formed of or include a rigid structure, such as a metal or plastic structure. Further, the frame 22 may be formed of a single element, such as a cured PU composition or a rigid and adhered structural element, or may include multiple elements that are directly coupled to each other or indirectly coupled to each other, for example by adhering each element to the glass panel 2a.

[0058] As explained in more detail below, the lighting device is coupled to the frame 22. Therein, a cover member may be provided, such as a plastic cover member 24. The cover member 24 may be coupled to the frame 22 and may be constructed and arranged to cover electrical connections for connecting power lines to the lighting device.

[0059] exist Figure 2B2a. A cover member 24 is provided in the corner. Between the cover member 24 and the glass panel 2a, the PU backing can be omitted to provide space for the electrical connection to the lighting device. The panel connector 26 can be arranged on the top of the frame 22, wherein the conductive wiring to the electrical connector is covered by the cover member 24. The panel connector 26 can be configured to be connected to the conductive wiring connected to the body of the vehicle, for example, to receive power from the vehicle battery. Similarly, if the lighting device supports multiple lighting effects, a control signal can be provided to control the lighting effect of the lighting device. It is obvious to those skilled in the art that electrical connections can be provided for many purposes, and therefore further explanation of the optional electrical connections is further omitted herein. Further, it is expected that the panel connector 26 is directly connected to the lighting device so that the cover member 24 only covers the channel for the electrical wiring between the panel connector 26 and the lighting device.

[0060] Figure 3A A guide assembly 6 is shown installed in a vehicle roof 1. A movably arranged glass panel 2a is substantially flush with the vehicle roof 1 and supported by the guide assembly 6. The guide assembly 6 is arranged in and coupled to a guide frame 30, which is coupled to the vehicle's body. A frame 22 is attached to the interior major surface 20 of the glass panel 2a. The frame 22 comprises a cured PU-based composition 221 and a rigid support element 222, such as a metal frame element. An acoustic seal 32 is arranged between the guide frame 30 and the frame 22. A flexible visor web 34 is supported and guided by the guide frame 30.

[0061] refer to Figures 3A-3C , the lighting device 36 is arranged in the molded element of the frame 22, in particular, the groove 223. The groove 223 is suitably formed in the cured polymer-based PU composition 221. The manufacturing steps for providing the cured polymer-based composition 221 with the molded element, in particular, the groove 223, are known in the art and will not be further explained here.

[0062] Figure 3B The frame 22 is shown as manufactured with the groove 223. According to the invention, during manufacture the lighting device 36 is not present and therefore not subject to potential damage such as surface scratches or the like which would significantly deteriorate the appearance of the lighting in the vehicle.

[0063] The molding element includes a groove 223 and further includes a retaining portion 224. The retaining portion 224 is formed of a polymer-based composition 221 and provides a narrowed opening for the groove 223. The retaining portion 224 has a predetermined flexibility, thereby allowing the mating shape of the lighting device to be pushed into the groove 223, after which the mating shape is mechanically retained in the groove 223 by the retaining portion 224.

[0064] like Figure 3C As shown in FIG, lighting device 36 includes a cylindrical light-conducting element, such as a light guide. Light guide 36 can be a single light-conducting rod, or a bundle of light-conducting rods enclosed in a flexible sleeve, or can be implemented in any other suitable shape or form. If the cross-sectional shape of the light-conducting element is not circular, the cross-sectional shape of recess 223 can be adapted to that of the light-conducting element, although the cross-sectional shapes of light-conducting element 36 and recess 223 need not be identical. Functionally, it is preferred that light-conducting element 36 can be easily pushed into recess 223 so that light is preferably evenly coupled out through the opening to the vehicle's passenger compartment, while light-conducting element 36 is mechanically retained in recess 223.

[0065] return Figure 3A The panel connector 26 is arranged in a void space that is not visible from the passenger compartment of the vehicle. An electrical wiring 28 is provided for electrical connection to a power source, for example, as described above and as hereinafter referred to Figure 8A and 8B Further clarified.

[0066] exist Figures 3A-3C In a first embodiment, the lighting device 36 is arranged between the frame 22 and the glass panel 2a. When the lighting device 36 is arranged so that a significant portion of the emitted light directly illuminates the passenger compartment, another portion of the emitted light can pass through the glass panel 2a. To prevent light from passing through the glass panel 2a, a coating or other similar layer (not shown), preferably a reflective coating or layer, can optionally be provided on the interior major surface 20 to reflect any light emitted in the direction of the interior major surface 20 into the passenger compartment of the vehicle. As is known in the art, if the glass panel 2a is a multi-layer panel, such a coating or layer can be provided on an intermediate layer of the multi-layer panel rather than on the interior major surface 20.

[0067] Furthermore, as is known in the art, applying a liquid polymer-based composition to the interior major surface 20 during manufacturing can result in a very thin layer of the composition forming an uneven edge at the glass panel 2a. Such a thin layer is typically cut away after curing. Such cutting is an additional manufacturing step that increases cost and consumes time. In the first embodiment, such a thin layer at the edge will be arranged in the groove 223 and will not be visible after the lighting device 36 is installed. Therefore, a manufacturing step can be omitted, thereby reducing costs.

[0068] Figure 4 A second embodiment is shown in which the lighting device 36 is arranged in a recess in the frame 22. Figures 3A-3C Compared to the first embodiment, the groove is completely formed in and by the cured polymer-based composition 221 rather than by the inner main surface 20. According to the present invention, the groove is formed during the manufacture of the frame 22 and the lighting device 36 is arranged in the groove in a subsequent manufacturing step.

[0069] Considering that the groove in the frame 22 formed entirely in and by the cured polymer-based composition 221 may have limited positional and / or dimensional accuracy, it may be preferable to form at least one inner surface of the groove separately, i.e., not define the at least one inner surface of the groove during application of the polymer-based composition 221. For example, Figures 3A-3C In the embodiment of FIG. 5 , the inner major surface 20 provides such a separately formed inner surface of the groove, thereby providing increased positional and dimensional accuracy, thereby improving installation quality and stability.

[0070] Figure 5 A third embodiment is shown in which a reflective layer 225 is provided in the groove 223. The reflective layer 225 can be provided to improve the amount of light output to the passenger compartment of the vehicle because the reflective layer 225 can prevent light from being absorbed in the cured polymer-based composition 221 of the frame 22. The reflective layer 225 can be a coating or can be a physical layer arranged in the groove 223, for example, after the groove 223 is made in the cured composition 221, it is adhered to the groove 223 by a suitable adhesive or the like. As described above, it may be preferable to provide the reflective layer 225 as a separately formed element to provide high positional and / or dimensional accuracy for the groove. For example, an extruded aluminum structure can be used as the reflective layer 225.

[0071] In a fourth embodiment, as shown in FIG6 , a groove 223 is provided in an elongated rigid support member 226, such as an extruded aluminum structure. The elongated rigid support member 226 may first be adhered to the interior major surface 20 of the glass panel 2a, for example, by adhesive or tape, and then the polymer composition 221 may be applied. In one embodiment, the rigid support member 226 may be combined with the rigid support member 222, or there may be two rigid support members 222, 226 as shown. In another embodiment, the first rigid support member 222 may be omitted.

[0072] The elongated rigid support element 226 provides not only the groove 223 but also the retaining portion 224 and can provide a reflective inner surface of the groove 223 by appropriately selecting the material of the elongated rigid support element 226 or by applying a reflective coating or any other suitable layer (see the reflective layer 225 in the third embodiment).

[0073] FIG7A shows a fifth embodiment, in which a carrier 361, a coupling element 362, and an illumination element 363 together form the illumination device 36. The carrier 361 can be, for example, a metal or plastic element having a desired aesthetic appearance to achieve a desired finish. The carrier 361 is provided with a coupling element 362 having a matching shape for coupling to the profiled element of the frame 22, namely, the groove 223. The opening to the groove 223 is narrowed by a suitable retaining portion 224 to retain the coupling element 362 in the groove 223. Furthermore, the carrier 361 supports and retains the illumination element 363, which can be a light-conducting element as described in conjunction with the first to fourth embodiments and as shown in FIG7A.

[0074] According to the present invention, the lighting device 36, as used in the fifth embodiment, is applied after the frame 22 has been positioned on the inner main surface 20 of the glass panel 2a. The coupling element 362 can then be pushed into the groove 223 to couple the lighting device 36 to the frame 22. Furthermore, additional profiled elements, such as grooves or protrusions, can be provided for further coupling between the lighting device 36 of the fifth embodiment and the frame 22. Still further, the carrier 361 can also be adhered to the inner main surface 20, for example to prevent vibrations against the inner main surface 20, which could cause noise during normal operation, i.e., during driving.

[0075] In the embodiment shown in FIG7A , the coupling element 362 is pushed into the groove 223 of the frame 22 in a direction substantially perpendicular to the interior major surface 20. In normal operation, this coupling direction corresponds to the direction of gravity. Therefore, the shape of the molding element 223 and the mating shape of the coupling element 362 need to be designed so that gravity and inertial forces can be sufficiently offset to retain the coupling element 362 in the groove 223. In another embodiment, the coupling direction can be in another direction, such as a direction substantially perpendicular to the direction of gravity and / or substantially parallel to the interior major surface 20, which can reduce the retention force required.

[0076] Figure 7B A sixth embodiment is shown, which is similar to the fifth embodiment except for the lighting element 363. In this sixth embodiment, a light diffusing element 364 is positioned between a light source 365 and the vehicle's passenger compartment. Specifically, the light source 365 may be an array of light sources, such as an elongated strip having a row of LEDs arranged thereon. As is known in the art, the diffusing element 364 can be configured to diffuse the light from the LEDs, thereby obscuring the individual LED light sources and creating the perception of a single elongated light source.

[0077] exist Figure 8A A seventh embodiment is shown in FIG. In this seventh embodiment, similar to the fifth and sixth embodiments, an illumination device 36 includes a carrier 361 and a coupling element 362. The illumination element used in the seventh embodiment includes a light-conducting element 366, such as a light guide, as described with respect to the first to fifth embodiments. Furthermore, an optical element 367 is provided. Optical element 367 can be a clear transparent element, a lens element, a diffuser element, a light-conducting element, or the like. Furthermore, optical element 367 can have one or more reflective surfaces. For example, as shown, one surface of optical element 367 is parallel to and positioned against interior major surface 20. To prevent unintended light loss, such surface of optical element 367 can be provided with a reflective coating. Depending on the specific embodiment, optical element 367 can also be provided with a surface arranged to provide total internal reflection to prevent light loss and / or guide light in a desired direction. Essentially, any optical feature or dimension can be embodied in optical element 367.

[0078] further, Figure 8A Shown with Figure 3A The panel connector 26 and electrical wiring 28 of the first embodiment shown in FIG. 1 are similar to the panel connector 26 and electrical wiring 28 of the first embodiment. Figure 8B Shown along the Figure 8A Another cross-sectional view along line BB is shown in FIG.

[0079] exist Figure 8B, a glass panel 2a, a cured polymer composition 221, a rigid support member 222, a panel connector 26, an electrical wiring 28, and a guide frame 30 are shown. As is apparent, the electrical wiring 28 is shown with a relatively large bend. Thus, the electrical wiring 28 is free to move with the glass panel 2a. Figure 1A As described and Figure 1A 2a is movably arranged, but the present invention can also be used in combination with a fixed panel. When the glass panel 2a moves, the electrical wiring 28 needs to be able to follow the glass panel 2a and should not hinder such movement. As a suitable embodiment that allows the movement of the movable element while maintaining electrical connection, it is known to apply flexible electrical wiring 28 with a large bend. Moreover, in one embodiment, a flexible cable carrier such as a chain cable carrier can be used to guide the movement of the electrical wiring. It is believed that those skilled in the art can design suitable electrical wiring connections to allow the glass panel 2a to move within its predetermined range.

[0080] In another embodiment, a releasable connection can be provided so that when the movable panel is in its position closing the opening in the roof of the vehicle, an electrical connection for supplying power is established, or the like. When the movable panel is moved to the open position, the electrical connection can be released. Once the glass panel is moved to the open position, the lighting device moves from its original position. It is assumed that the lighting device cannot illuminate the passenger compartment of the vehicle in such an open position, and therefore, the power supply can be disconnected.

[0081] In a more particular embodiment, a releasable connection may be provided, and a rechargeable battery or similar energy storage device may be disposed on the glass panel and connected to the lighting device so that when the power is disconnected, the battery can supply power to the lighting device, and when the power connection is restored, the battery can be recharged.

[0082] It should be noted that, for the sake of brevity, certain aspects and alternative embodiments have been described within the scope of one or more of the first to seventh embodiments, but not for every embodiment. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that such aspects and alternatives described with respect to one embodiment may be combined with one or more other embodiments. Such combinations are hereby disclosed.

[0083] Specific embodiments of the present invention are disclosed herein; however, it should be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely examples of the present invention, and that the present invention can be embodied in various forms. Therefore, the specific structural and functional details disclosed herein should not be interpreted as limiting, but merely as a basis for the claims, and as a representative basis for teaching those skilled in the art to utilize the present invention in various ways with any appropriate specific structure contemplated. In particular, the features set forth and described in the individual dependent claims may be applied in combination, and any advantageous combination of such claims is therefore disclosed.

[0084] Furthermore, it is contemplated that structural elements can be generated by applying three-dimensional (3D) printing technology. Thus, any reference to a structural element is intended to encompass any computer-executable instructions that instruct a computer to generate such a structural element using three-dimensional printing technology or similar computer-controlled manufacturing technology. Furthermore, any such reference to a structural element is also intended to encompass a computer-readable medium carrying such computer-executable instructions.

[0085] Further, the terms and phrases used in this article are not restrictive, but rather provide an understandable description of the present invention. When used in this article, the terms "a" or "an" are defined as one or more than one. When used in this article, the term "a" or "an" is defined as two or more than two. When used in this article, the term "another" is defined as at least a second or more. When used in this article, the terms "comprising" and / or "having" are defined as including (i.e., open language). When used in this article, the term "connected" is defined as connected, but not necessarily directly connected.

[0086] The invention being thus described, it will be obvious that the same may be varied in many ways. Such variations are not to be regarded as a departure from the spirit and scope of the invention, and all such modifications as would be obvious to one skilled in the art are intended to be included within the scope of the following claims.

Claims

1. A glass panel assembly for use in a roof (1) of a vehicle, the glass panel assembly comprising: a glass panel (2a) comprising an inner major surface (20) configured to point toward a passenger compartment of the vehicle; a frame (22) adhered to the interior major surface, the frame comprising a profiled element, wherein the profiled element is an elongated groove (223) extending between the interior major surface and the frame along a length of at least a portion of the frame; as well as an elongated lighting device (36) having a mating shape so as to be mechanically retained in the recess; The opening of the groove allows light from the lighting device within the groove to exit the groove and directly illuminate at least a portion of the passenger compartment of the vehicle.

2. The glass panel assembly according to claim 1, wherein: The frame is at least partially formed from a cured polymer-based composition.

3. The glass panel assembly according to claim 1, wherein: The frame includes a rigid support member (226).

4. The glass panel assembly according to claim 3, wherein: The rigid support element is embedded in the cured polymer-based composition.

5. The glass panel assembly according to claim 4, wherein: The rigid support element comprises an elongated groove, and wherein the rigid support element is embedded in the cured polymer-based composition such that the elongated groove is open and forms the groove of the frame.

6. The glass panel assembly according to claim 1, wherein: The profiled element and the mating shape have corresponding shapes to provide a positive engagement.

7. The glass panel assembly according to claim 1, wherein: The elongated lighting device includes an elongated light guide retained in the groove.

8. The glass panel assembly according to claim 1, wherein: The elongated lighting device includes an array of light sources (365) and a diffusing element (364) disposed between the array of light sources and a passenger compartment of the vehicle.

9. A glass panel assembly for use in a roof (1) of a vehicle, the glass panel assembly comprising: a glass panel (2a) comprising an inner major surface (20), the inner major surface of the glass panel being configured to point toward a passenger compartment of the vehicle; a frame (22) adhered to the interior major surface, the frame including a groove (223) extending between the interior major surface and the frame along a length of at least a portion of the frame; wherein the groove is configured to engage a mating shape of an elongated lighting device (36) to mechanically retain the lighting device in the groove; as well as The lighting device is configured to directly illuminate at least a portion of the passenger compartment through an opening of the recess.

10. The glass panel assembly according to claim 9, wherein: The glass panel assembly further comprises an electrical connector (26) for electrically connecting to the lighting device to supply power to the lighting device.

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