Vehicle window and method of manufacturing the same

Abstract

The invention relates to a vehicle window having a light-emitting device (30) comprising a plurality of optoelectronic components (33, 34, 35) on a flexible film (32). Furthermore, a structure is provided, which consists of a first panel (10) and a second panel (11) arranged on the first panel, which are connected by at least one at least partially transparent connecting layer (21, 22, 23). The structure comprises an at least partially transparent inner region (3) and an edge region (2) surrounding the inner region. According to the invention, the light-emitting device (30) is arranged laterally in the edge region (2) of the structure, and the edge region (20) is designed together with the light-emitting device to deflect the light generated by the optoelectronic components (33, 34, 35) along the at least partially transparent connecting layer (21, 22, 23) into the at least partially transparent inner region (3).

Description

[0001] This application claims priority to German application DE 10 2021 120 806.8, filed on August 10, 2021, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0002] This invention relates to a vehicle window and its manufacturing method. Background Technology

[0003] Adjustable hue or adjustable darkness is known in vehicle windows. However, there is also a growing demand for lighting variations that require a uniform atmosphere and indirect lighting through vehicle windows. Solutions exist for this purpose, but these solutions are either prone to failure and errors or require increased space.

[0004] Therefore, there is still a need for solutions that are cost-effective, easy to produce, and still allow for a high degree of flexibility. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The independent claims fulfill this requirement. Improvements and design options are the subject of the dependent claims.

[0006] As a solution to the problem mentioned at the beginning, the inventors now propose integrating the light-emitting element into the edge region of the glass and deflecting the light to the central region of the glass by means of a waveguide, after which the light is emitted from the glass. In this way, not only is the space required for such installation reduced, but it also results in an increase in light yield through the integrated arrangement.

[0007] This reduces power consumption, or otherwise the light-emitting mechanism would need to be larger. Therefore, in some aspects, a vehicle window is proposed, comprising a structure consisting of a first panel and a second panel arranged on the first panel. The two panels are connected to each other by a connecting layer that is at least partially transparent. According to the proposed principle, the structure has an interior region that is at least partially transparent and an edge region surrounding said interior region.

[0008] The light-emitting device is also provided, which includes a plurality of optoelectronic devices on a flexible film, wherein the light-emitting device is arranged laterally in the edge region of the structure, and the edge region together with the light-emitting device is designed to deflect the light generated by the optoelectronic devices along a connecting layer that is at least partially transparent to the inner region that is at least partially transparent.

[0009] Therefore, the connecting layer acts as a waveguide, deflecting light generated in the edge region to the inner region, allowing the light to be coupled out from the vehicle window and produce the desired ambient lighting effect. Due to the waveguide effect, integration into the edge region allows for: firstly, the deflection of light to the inner region; and secondly, simplified manufacturing, as the light-emitting mechanism itself no longer needs to be located in the inner region, thus eliminating the need for long and potentially faulty feed lines, which are also visually considered distractions.

[0010] The term "panel" can be understood as a transparent solid material, applicable to window glass, transparent roofs, or other forms in motor vehicles (such as cars, airplanes, or trains). Such panels can be made of glass, but can also be composed of PMMA or other transparent plastics. Furthermore, panels can, in principle, have a layered structure, meaning they consist of multiple individual elements connected to each other.

[0011] In some aspects, the edge areas are covered, i.e., invisible, and can be designed as fixed devices for vehicle windows in addition to integrated light devices.

[0012] In some aspects, a reflective layer is also provided, which covers the surface of the edge region of the light-emitting device at least along its longitudinal edges. The reflective layer may also be arranged over the entire surface of the edge region. A diffusion layer may also be arranged between the reflective layer and the edge region to produce a light distribution as uniform as possible. The reflective layer increases the light yield because outwardly emitted light is deflected back towards the inner region.

[0013] Some aspects relate to the design and arrangement of the light-emitting devices and optoelectronic devices relative to the edge region. In some aspects, the light-emitting devices and optoelectronic devices are arranged within the connecting layer in the edge region. Alternatively, the light-emitting devices may be arranged laterally on at least one of the first and second panels, with the optoelectronic devices facing the connecting layer. In some aspects, two light-emitting devices may exist on two panels. In such embodiments, it would be meaningful to mirror the corresponding opposite side of the structure in the edge region, such that light emitted by the devices is reflected back into the structure.

[0014] In some aspects, the flexible film of the light-emitting device can be designed as a reflective film or include a reflective back side. This is beneficial for further improving the light yield. Another aspect involves the arrangement of the devices on the film relative to the internal region. In this regard, the background is the possible color mixing of the devices and the desire in some embodiments to achieve the most uniform distribution possible. The devices can be volumetric emitters, but can also be configured as side emitters. Therefore, it is feasible to mount Bragg mirrors onto the surface of the device, if necessary, to increase radiation to the sides.

[0015] In some aspects, optoelectronic devices are arranged on a flexible film such that the lateral distances between two adjacent optoelectronic devices and the center point of the light-emitting device are different in the cross-section through the light-emitting device. In other words, multiple devices are arranged side by side, such that at least the inner devices (i.e., the devices closer to the center point) and the outer devices are arranged in a row. Alternatively, optoelectronic devices may also be arranged in at least one row along the edge region on the flexible film. Similarly, combinations are also possible, such that, for example, the devices form two or more strips at different distances from the parallel axes extending through the center point.

[0016] In some examples, the light-emitting device extends along the edge region in one piece or in multiple pieces, and then surrounds the inner region. Therefore, the device can be arranged on or along a virtual rectangle on the flexible film.

[0017] Some aspects involve the generation of different colors or even white light. In some aspects, optoelectronic devices include semiconductor chips configured to emit light of different wavelengths, particularly red, green, and blue light. Thus, almost any color or color gradient can be generated through corresponding manipulation. These colors or color gradients can be coupled to sound or other signals to create a corresponding atmosphere or transmit information. Alternatively, optoelectronic devices may include semiconductor chips having conversion materials for generating mixed light, particularly white light. The conversion material may surround the semiconductor chip, but may also be configured as conversion particles in a at least partially transparent interconnect layer. The gradient of these conversion particles in the interconnect layer is non-uniform in some aspects to produce a uniform color transition.

[0018] In some other aspects, the connecting layer has scattering particles. These scattering particles improve the coupling output of light from the vehicle window, thereby creating desired ambient lighting in the interior region. In some embodiments, the scattering particles are non-uniformly distributed to create lighting patterns. Additionally, the scattering particles may be disposed only in the interior regions and not in the edge regions. In some aspects, the connecting layer comprises a film printed with scattering particles, the printed side of which is particularly adjacent to the first and second panels.

[0019] This printed film can be easily manufactured and integrated into the bonding layer in a desired pattern. In some other aspects, the bonding layer may also have a layer colored in at least some areas. Alternatively or additionally, in some designs, a transparent film is integrated into the bonding layer. The transparent film is arranged in the internal areas and includes, for example, a film particularly having liquid crystal or an electrochromic film.

[0020] The material of the bonding layer can be varied. Suitable materials include, for example, polyvinyl butyral (PVB) or another plastic of the polyvinyl acetal family. In another aspect, the bonding layer is at least partially implemented by a reflective material in the edge regions. The reflective material can be arranged between the edges of the edge regions and the light-emitting device to reflect the emitted light into the inner regions. In some aspects, the reflective material is provided by means of a PVB film, which forms part of the bonding layer after the structure is made. In another aspect, the reflective material is arranged on the side of the flexible film facing away from the optoelectronic device. Light emitted from the device toward the flexible film is reflected by the reflective material and can then return to the bonding layer.

[0021] Alternatively, the reflective material can also be formed from reflective film segments arranged around the light-emitting device and / or apparatus. In some aspects, depending on the design, the thickness of the bonding layer is from 40 μm to 1000 μm. Here, the bonding layer can be constructed from individual layers that are fused together by heat and pressure to form a substantially continuous layer. If scattering particles, conversion particles, or other materials are used in the individual layers, the fusion process causes diffusion of these particles. However, even after the fusion process, some inhomogeneity and gradient will still appear in these particles within the bonding layer.

[0022] On the other hand, it relates to a method for manufacturing vehicle windows.

[0023] Therefore, for example, in a vehicle window having an inner region and an edge region surrounding the inner region, it is proposed that: in a first step, a first panel and a second panel are provided. Then, a first film layer, at least partially transparent, is applied to the first panel, and a second film layer is disposed on the first film layer.

[0024] Here, the second film layer may have at least partially scattering particles in the inner region. Subsequently or simultaneously, a light-emitting device is arranged on the first or second film layer in the edge region, the light-emitting device being particularly in the form of a strip having a flexible film and optoelectronic semiconductor devices arranged on the flexible film. Here, depending on the design, the flexible film can be applied to the first or second film layer and slightly pressed in; alternatively, the light-emitting device can also be first applied to the film layer as an optoelectronic device. In the latter case, the device can be slightly pressed into the first or second film layer.

[0025] Then, at least one partially transparent third film layer is applied to the second film layer and the light-emitting device in the edge region, such that the light-emitting device is completely covered or encapsulated by the film layer. In the final step, the second panel is arranged on the third film layer.

[0026] At this point, the individual film layers are melted to connect the first and second panels to each other, forming a connecting layer. This creates a substantially uniform connecting layer with scattering particles in the inner region, within which the optoelectronic semiconductor device of the light-emitting device is also located. In this embodiment, the connecting layer thus acts as a waveguide and can deflect the light emitted by the optoelectronic device toward the inner region.

[0027] In another aspect, the method additionally arranges diffusion particles or reflective layers on the surfaces of the first and / or second panels in the edge regions. Specifically, it can be specified that the diffusion and reflective layers are formed at least along the longitudinal edges of the panels, such that light generated by the optoelectronic devices is reflected back into the bonding layer.

[0028] On the other hand, the flexible film of the light-emitting device can also be configured as a reflective film or have a reflective back side. All these measures increase the light yield because light that is not directly radiated into the inner region is reflected by the reflective material in the edge region and can still reach the inner region.

[0029] On the other hand, it allows for additional adjustment of the darkness of the internal region. For this purpose, during manufacturing, a transparently adjustable film is arranged on a first or second film layer in the internal region. Here, the transparently adjustable film can specifically include a film with liquid crystals or an electrochromic film. In this respect, different aspects can thus be achieved in the internal region, such as generating an illumination pattern through the non-uniform distribution of scattering particles or a film accordingly printed with scattering particles, and additional color adjustment through the electrochromic film.

[0030] On the other hand, the composition of the reflective material is involved. This reflective material surrounds the light-emitting device within the bonding layer in a suitable manner, thereby reflecting the emitted light into the internal region. The reflective material used for this purpose can be individual film segments, or it can be a reflective material applied to or applied to individual films during the manufacturing process. These reflective particles are then homogenized or diffused through a subsequent fusion process, causing them to surround the light-emitting device and deflect the light emitted by the optoelectronic device towards the internal region. For this purpose, the optoelectronic device can also be configured as a so-called side emitter to improve optical coupling to the internal region. Attached Figure Description

[0031] Other aspects and implementations based on the proposed principles will become apparent from the various embodiments and examples described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0032] Figure 1 A first design scheme for a vehicle window incorporating some aspects of the proposed principles is shown;

[0033] Figure 2 A second design for a vehicle window, incorporating some aspects of the proposed principles, is shown.

[0034] Figure 3 A third design scheme for a vehicle window, incorporating some aspects of the proposed principles, is shown.

[0035] Figure 4 Different implementations of a light-emitting device that can be used in a vehicle window according to the proposed principle are shown in cross-section;

[0036] Figure 5 A fourth design scheme for a vehicle window, incorporating some aspects of the proposed principles, is shown.

[0037] Figure 6 A fifth design scheme for a vehicle window, incorporating some aspects of the proposed principles, is shown.

[0038] Figure 7 Different steps are shown in the method for manufacturing a vehicle window based on the proposed principle. Detailed Implementation

[0039] The following embodiments and examples illustrate different aspects and combinations thereof according to the proposed principles. The embodiments and examples are not always to scale. Similarly, different elements may be shown enlarged or reduced to highlight various aspects. It goes without saying that the aspects and features of the embodiments and examples shown in the figures can be readily combined with each other without thereby compromising the principles of the invention. Some aspects have regular structures or shapes. It should be noted that slight deviations from the ideal shape may occur in practice, but this does not contradict the spirit of the invention.

[0040] Furthermore, the various figures, features, and aspects are not necessarily shown at the correct dimensions, and the proportions between the elements are not necessarily accurate in principle. Some aspects and features are highlighted by showing them in enlarged form. However, terms such as "above," "above," "below," "under," "larger," and "smaller" are correctly shown relative to the elements in the accompanying drawings. Therefore, this relationship between the elements can be deduced from the illustrations.

[0041] Figure 1A first embodiment of a vehicle window implementing some aspects of the proposed principles is shown. The vehicle window is constructed of two panels 10 and 11, which are tightly connected to each other via a connecting layer 20. In this way, a structure 4 is formed, which is further divided into an inner region 3 and an edge region 2 surrounding the inner region 3. The inner region 3 is designed to be at least partially transparent, allowing the occupants of the vehicle to observe through the inner region 3. A vehicle window manufactured in this way can, for example, be part of a motor vehicle and implemented in the top structure or implemented as a window.

[0042] The vehicle window structure and connecting layers are constructed in more than 20 layers, and in this embodiment includes a first film 21, a second film 23, and a third film 22 disposed between the first and second films. The third film 22 is configured as a liquid crystal film, LC, or PDLC film, thereby allowing adjustment of the darkness or hue of the interior area of ​​the vehicle window. Here, the LC film has polarization, while the PDLC film does not, which can be utilized in some applications. The two outer films 21 and 23, as layer structures, are made of, for example, PVB material, which is used to connect the two panels. In manufacturing such a vehicle window, the PVB material is applied as a film as shown, and then connected to the panels by thermal and pressure action. The thermal action causes the film layers to melt, so that after recooling, a generally uniformly designed connecting layer 20 is formed, in which the liquid crystal film 22 is embedded.

[0043] In order to create the lighting pattern, the PVB film 23 is also printed with scattering particles, such that, as explained below, light introduced into the bonding layer is scattered by the scattering particles and radiated outward.

[0044] Based on the proposed principle, a light-emitting device 30 is provided in the edge region 2 of the structure. The light-emitting device is configured as a transparent flexible film having optoelectronic devices arranged thereon, wherein the devices are arranged in multiple rows as shown herein. Therefore, this arrangement results in the devices being at different distances from the center of the inner region 3. In the illustrated embodiment, the light-emitting device 30 is introduced within the bonding layer, and particularly between the two PVB films, and then fused thereto.

[0045] During operation, the optoelectronic device emits light in different directions, exhibiting Lambertian emission behavior. To deflect the light emitted by the device in the connecting layer to the inner region, a diffusion or reflection element 40 is provided in the edge region 2. This diffusion or reflection element completely surrounds the surface of the edge region, and particularly the side edges of the edge region of the structure, thus reflecting the emitted light back into the connecting layer. Due to the difference in refractive index between the panels 10 and 11 on one side and the connecting layer 20 on the other side, a waveguide is generated within the connecting layer, which deflects the light emitted by the device in the connecting layer into the inner region 3. There, the light is scattered by scattering particles and emitted outwards.

[0046] Therefore, an indirect lighting glass structure is created in this way, which allows for different color or brightness patterns when the various components are properly manipulated. Furthermore, the scattering particles can be unevenly distributed and, for example, depict icons or other defined shapes, which are indirectly illuminated by light incident from the edge regions.

[0047] The arrangement of the vehicle window according to the invention, with devices within the connecting layer, has several advantages compared to the conventional arrangement of devices at the side edges of the structure. Firstly, the light yield is significantly improved by implementing the device within the connecting layer, especially when the connecting layer is only a few micrometers thick. In conventional solutions where optoelectronic devices are arranged along the side edges, coupling light into the thin intermediate layer is significantly more difficult due to the smaller axial dimension.

[0048] Furthermore, due to their proximity to the edges, the feed lines to each optoelectronic device are designed to be shorter and invisible to the user. In particular, the area surrounding the edge with the reflective layer can also be implemented as a retaining area, so that only the internal area indirectly illuminated by the optoelectronic devices is visible to the user.

[0049] Figure 2 Another embodiment based on the proposed principle, exhibiting stronger luminescence intensity for different applications, is shown. In this embodiment, the vehicle window is symmetrically constructed, and in particular, the connecting layer comprises a multilayered structure composed of different PVB and other films.

[0050] Specifically, a first PVB film 21' is applied to the first panel 10, and in the edge region, strip-shaped light-emitting devices 30 are arranged within the first PVB film. The light-emitting devices are slightly pressed into the PVB film, with the devices of the first light-emitting device facing away from the panel 10. At this time, a second PVB film 23 is applied to the device, and the second PVB film has scattering particles printed on it at least in its inner region. Therefore, the optoelectronic device is surrounded by the second PVB film 23. Meanwhile, in the edge region, additional light-emitting strips are arranged on the PVB film, where the devices facing the first light-emitting strips are further facing the PVB film 23. A liquid crystal (LC or PDLC) or electrochromic film 22 is arranged in the center of the inner region and is covered by a third PVB film 21. The third PVB film also surrounds additional second light-emitting strips 30 in the edge region of the structure. Finally, a second glass film is applied.

[0051] After being manufactured in this manner, the two panels are fused together via different PVB films using heat and pressure to form a unified bonding layer 20. Specifically, the second PVB film 23 acts as an optical waveguide, guiding light emitted by the optoelectronic devices into the internal region of the vehicle window structure.

[0052] As in the previous embodiment, the edge region 2 is surrounded by a diffusion and reflection layer 40, such that light emitted from the device in this direction is deflected back into the connection layer 20 and from there into the inner region 2. The scattering particles in layer 23 within the inner region further ensure that the light is coupled and output towards the user.

[0053] Figure 3 Another design scheme based on the proposed principle is shown, in which the light-emitting device 30 is arranged outside the connecting layer 20. This allows for the separate fabrication of structure 4, followed by the placement of the light-emitting device 30 as needed.

[0054] In the embodiment described, the light-emitting devices are arranged as strip-shaped elements on two different sides of panels 11 and 10. Here, the optoelectronic devices face the panels and are embedded within the reflective structure 40. To ensure good coupling, an adhesive or silicone layer may be provided to fix the devices and the light-emitting strips to the panels. During operation, the devices radiate through the corresponding glass layers into the connecting layer 20. There, they are deflected towards the interior region by scattering particles of layer 23, thus creating an atmosphere and indirect illumination. In this context, film 23 extends to the edges. The edges may also be reflective to deflect as much light as possible into the connecting layer. Similarly, the glass layers opposite the corresponding devices may also be covered with reflective layers.

[0055] Figure 4Some design forms of the light-emitting device 30 are shown, for example, its use in vehicle windows based on the proposed principles.

[0056] The right figure shows a cross-section of a strip-shaped light-emitting device, which comprises three optoelectronic devices 33, 34, and 35. These optoelectronic devices are configured to emit light of different wavelengths and form a single pixel consisting of three sub-pixels: green, blue, and red. The devices are arranged in a row in the top view, but other arrangements are also possible, such as offsetting each other so that their centers form a triangle in the top view. Furthermore, in the case of a strip with multiple such devices, different colors can be arranged, which would result in a more uniform color impression.

[0057] Furthermore, the optoelectronic device is encapsulated by an optional reflective layer that deflects light through the transparent film 32 to produce a first color mix. This color mixing, already present on the light-emitting device, results in a more uniform color distribution, creating a uniform mixed light in the internal regions for the observer.

[0058] In the intermediate arrangement of the light-emitting device shown, each optoelectronic device 33, 34, and 35 has a mirror 36 on its surface. This mirror can be configured, for example, as a Bragg mirror and reflects light emitted towards the surface back into the device, causing the device to primarily emit light to the side. Furthermore, to enhance this effect, the flexible film 32 of the device is additionally provided with a reflective layer that also reflects downwardly emitted light. In this way, the optoelectronic device shown in the intermediate embodiment primarily functions as a side emitter and radiates light to the side.

[0059] This arrangement is advantageously positioned primarily within the connecting layer, where light, having already been emitted from the side emitter along the connecting layer, is thus retained within the waveguide formed by the connecting layer. This implementation therefore increases the light yield within the connecting layer in this arrangement. Figure 1 and Figure 2 The implementation scheme in the text can be configured to have such a side transmitter.

[0060] In contrast, the design on the right illustrates an arrangement in which the optoelectronic devices 430 are identically configured and surrounded or covered by the conversion layer 30. Light emitted by the devices is converted into a second wavelength by the conversion layer, resulting in mixed light when the conversion material 37 is appropriately selected and the layer thickness is suitable. For example, white light can be generated simultaneously when using a blue LED and the conversion material is appropriate.

[0061] Figure 5Another design is shown in which the scattering particles on the PVB film 23 are only partially present in the internal region. This film can be manufactured directly by appropriate printing of the scattering particles, but it can also be arranged simply in the internal region of the structure with additional film segments in the edge regions. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the individual optoelectronic devices of the light-emitting device 30' are not arranged side-by-side as in previous embodiments, but rather sequentially, i.e., entering or leaving the drawing plane.

[0062] Depending on the design and manipulation of the optoelectronic devices in the columns or rows, it is possible to display as uniform a mixed light or an appropriate color distribution or color gradient as possible within the internal area. In this respect, the light-emitting device can have different devices arranged in rows and columns, wherein devices of different colors can be placed in these positions, thereby arranging them.

[0063] Figure 6 Another design embodiment of the proposed principle is shown. In this embodiment, conversion particles are disposed within the film 23, which generate mixed light from the light emitted by the optoelectronic device of the light-emitting device 30. To deflect the light as widely as possible into the internal region, the light-emitting device is surrounded by a reflective material 24 at corresponding adjacent side edges. This material is also located on the side of the film of the light-emitting device 30 facing away from the device. In some designs, the reflective material 24 is configured as a corresponding film within a connecting layer.

[0064] For example, a corresponding PVB film can be provided, which partially contains reflective material and reflective particles at corresponding positions in the edge region. Alternatively, an additional film 24 is also feasible, which is arranged in the edge region. Thus, the light-emitting device 30 is additionally encapsulated in this way, so that light propagates in the waveguide-like connecting layer 20 and is deflected outward by scattering particles in the inner region. Furthermore, depending on the design of the reflective material 24, the additional diffusion and reflection layer 40 can be omitted. In this embodiment, the edge region is designed to have sufficient reflectivity so that a retainer is provided only in the edge region.

[0065] Figure 7 Different steps of an embodiment of the method based on the proposed principle are shown. To manufacture the structure, in the method, as a first step S1, a first panel 10 is provided, and a PVB film is applied to the panel. Depending on the design, the PVB film may be colored, thus partially transparent, or it may be uncolored, thus having higher transmittance. In step S2, a second PVB film with printed scattering particles is arranged on the PVB film. The second PVB film is approximately 40 μm thick, with the scattering particles facing the first panel itself.

[0066] In optional step S3, an electrochromic or other adjustable film that alters reflection and absorption characteristics can be applied to this arrangement in the inner region. Furthermore, the light-emitting device 30 is introduced into the edge region surrounding the inner region simultaneously or in a different step. The light-emitting device includes a flexible film, on which optoelectronic devices are arranged together with their feed lines.

[0067] The light-emitting device 30 can be slightly pressed forward into the PVB film with the optoelectronic device facing forward. Alternatively, a flexible film can be placed directly onto the PVB film, with the device pointing upward. In this method, the device is configured as a side emitter, thereby radiating light emitted therefrom to the side. In the subsequent step S4, a second PVB film is laid onto the device or film, the second PVB film also filling the internal region. Subsequently, in step S5, a second panel is applied and the structure is tightly joined together by heat and pressure. Thus, the individual connecting layers melt and, if necessary, partially mix, forming continuous connecting layers that integrate the light-emitting device within the connecting layers in the edge regions of the structure. Here, the device radiates light to the side.

[0068] Finally, in step S6, the edge region is surrounded by a reflective layer, such that the reflective layer deflects light emitted from the device toward the edge region toward the inner region.

[0069] The embodiments and features shown herein can be arbitrarily combined with each other. Therefore, for example, it is feasible to specify different reflective materials in the connecting layer or also on the panel in the edge region, which should deflect light along the connecting layer. The structure of the light-emitting device, the use of the optoelectronic devices described herein, and the individual layers of the connecting layer are flexible. Therefore, more layers than the PVB layers mentioned in the embodiments can be used. Similarly, multiple printed films can also be used. If film printing is not suitable, scattering particles can also be applied in different ways during manufacturing. In addition to PVB films, other suitable materials can be used, and liquid adhesives can be used if necessary.

[0070] In addition to the two panels described herein, other panels are also feasible, enabling the construction of multi-layer systems. Here, the light-emitting devices can also be disposed in the connecting layer in the edge region. Although the term "in the edge region" is generally equivalent to "within the connecting layer" herein, it can also refer to the panel within the edge region. However, arrangements where the optoelectronic devices are arranged along the side edges of the edge region are explicitly excluded. Importantly, however, the connecting layer acts as a waveguide, guiding light emitted in or at the edge region into the inner region. Here, by arranging the optoelectronic devices in the connecting layer or laterally on the panel, as much light as possible is coupled into the connecting layer.

[0071] List of reference numerals

[0072] 1. Vehicle window

[0073] 2. Edge area

[0074] 3. Internal Area

[0075] 4. Structure

[0076] Panels 10 and 11

[0077] 20 Connection Layer

[0078] 21 PVB membrane

[0079] 22 LC membrane

[0080] 23 PVB film with scattering particles

[0081] 24. Reflective materials

[0082] 23' Layer containing scattering particles and / or conversion particles

[0083] 30 Light-emitting devices

[0084] 32 Flexible membrane

[0085] 33, 34, 35 Optoelectronic devices

[0086] 36. Reflectors, Bragg mirrors

[0087] 37. Conversion Materials

[0088] 40 Reflective layer

Claims

1. A vehicle window, comprising: - A light-emitting device (30), which includes a plurality of optoelectronic devices (33, 34, 35) on a flexible film (32). - A structure including a first panel (10) and a second panel (11) disposed on the first panel; and at least one connecting layer (21, 22, 23) that is at least partially transparent, the at least one connecting layer connecting the first panel (10) and the second panel (11) to each other; The structure has at least a partially transparent internal region (3) and an edge region (2) surrounding the internal region. The light-emitting device (30) is arranged laterally between the first panel (10) and the second panel (11) in the edge region (2) of the structure, and the edge region (2) together with the light-emitting device is designed to deflect the light generated by the optoelectronic device (33, 34, 35) along at least partially transparent connecting layers (21, 22, 23) to at least partially transparent inner regions (3), wherein the connecting layers (21, 22, 23) act as light guides.

2. The vehicle window according to claim 1 further includes a reflective layer (40) that covers the surface of the edge region (2) of the structure at least along the longitudinal edge (2') of the structure.

3. The vehicle window according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The light-emitting device (30) is arranged in the edge region (2) within the connecting layer (21, 22, 23) such that the optoelectronic device (33, 34, 35) is located in the connecting layer (21, 22, 23).

4. The vehicle window according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The light-emitting device (30) is arranged laterally on at least one of the first panel (10) and the second panel (11), such that the optoelectronic devices (33, 34, 35) face the connecting layer (21, 22, 23).

5. The vehicle window according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The flexible membrane (32) is designed as a reflective membrane or includes a reflective back side.

6. The vehicle window according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The optoelectronic devices are arranged on the flexible film (32) such that the lateral distance between two adjacent optoelectronic devices and the center point of the internal region (3) of the structure is different in the cross-section through the light-emitting device.

7. The vehicle window according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The optoelectronic devices are arranged in at least one row along the edge region on the flexible film.

8. The vehicle window according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The optoelectronic devices each include a semiconductor chip, which is configured to emit light of different wavelengths.

9. The vehicle window according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The optoelectronic devices each include a semiconductor chip, the semiconductor chip including a conversion material (37) for generating mixed light.

10. The vehicle window according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The at least partially transparent connecting layer has conversion particles for generating mixed light.

11. The vehicle window according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The connecting layer has scattering particles that are unevenly distributed.

12. The vehicle window according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The connecting layer includes a film printed with scattering particles.

13. The vehicle window according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The connecting layer includes a transparently adjustable membrane disposed in the inner region (3).

14. The vehicle window according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The connecting layer comprises at least a partially transparent plastic film.

15. The vehicle window according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The material of the connecting layer includes polyvinyl butyral (PVB) or another plastic of the polyvinyl acetal family.

16. The vehicle window according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, In the edge region (2), the connecting layer includes a reflective material (24) disposed between the edge of the edge region (2) and the light-emitting device (30) to reflect the emitted light into the inner region.

17. The vehicle window according to claim 16, wherein, The reflective material is arranged on the side of the flexible film opposite to the optoelectronic device.

18. The vehicle window according to claim 16, wherein, The reflective material is formed from reflective film segments.

19. The vehicle window according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The thickness of the connecting layer is 40 μm to 400 μm.

20. The vehicle window according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The optoelectronic device is configured as a side emitter.

21. The vehicle window according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The optoelectronic devices each include a semiconductor chip, which is configured to emit red light, green light and blue light.

22. The vehicle window according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The optoelectronic devices each include a semiconductor chip, and the semiconductor chip includes a conversion material (37) for generating white light.

23. The vehicle window according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The connecting layer has scattering particles that are unevenly distributed to generate lighting patterns.

24. The vehicle window according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The connecting layer includes a film printed with scattering particles, the printed side of which is adjacent to the first panel (10) and the second panel (11).

25. The vehicle window according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The connecting layer includes a liquid crystal film or an electrochromic film disposed in the inner region (3).

26. The vehicle window according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The optoelectronic device is configured as a side emitter and has reflective elements on its surface.

27. The vehicle window according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The optoelectronic device is configured as a side emitter and has a reflective element on its surface in the form of a Bragg mirror.

28. The vehicle window according to claim 14, wherein, The plastic film is at least partially colored in the inner region (3).

29. A method for manufacturing a vehicle window, the vehicle window having an interior region and an edge region (2) surrounding the interior region (3), the method comprising the steps of: - Provide a first panel (10) and a second panel (11); - Apply a first film layer that is at least partially transparent to the first panel (10); - Apply a second film layer, the second film layer having at least partially scattering particles in at least the internal region (3); - A light-emitting device is arranged on the first film layer and / or the second film layer in the edge region (2), the light-emitting device having a flexible film (32) and a photoelectronic semiconductor device arranged on the flexible film; - Apply at least a partially transparent third film layer to the second film layer and the light-emitting device, such that the second film layer and the light-emitting device are completely covered; - Arrange the second panel on the third film layer; - The first panel and the second panel are connected to each other by a molten film, wherein the photoelectronic semiconductor device of the light-emitting device is located within the connecting layer created by the film. The light-emitting device (30) is arranged laterally between the first panel (10) and the second panel (11), in the edge region (2) of the structure including the first panel (10), the second panel (11) and the connecting layer, and The edge region, together with the light-emitting device, is designed to deflect light generated by the optoelectronic semiconductor device along at least partially transparent connecting layers (21, 22, 23) into at least partially transparent inner regions (3), wherein the connecting layers (21, 22, 23) act as light guides.

30. The method of claim 29 further comprises applying a diffusion and / or reflection layer (40) that covers the surface of the panel in the edge region at least along the longitudinal edges (2') of the first panel (10) and / or the second panel (11).

31. The method according to any one of claims 29 to 30, wherein, The flexible membrane (32) is designed as a reflective membrane or includes a reflective back side.

32. The method according to claim 29 or 30, further comprising: - A transparently adjustable film is arranged on one of the first film or the second film in the inner region.

33. The method according to claim 29 or 30, wherein, Applying the second film layer includes applying a film printed with scattering particles for generating an illumination pattern.

34. The method according to claim 29 or 30, - A reflective material (24) is arranged in the edge region between the edge of the edge region and the light-emitting device (30) so as to reflect the emitted light into the inner region.

35. The method according to claim 29 or 30, wherein, The optoelectronic semiconductor devices are arranged on the flexible film (32) such that the lateral distance between two adjacent optoelectronic semiconductor devices and the center point of the inner region (3) is different in the cross-section through the light-emitting device.

36. The method according to claim 29 or 30, wherein, The optoelectronic semiconductor devices are arranged in at least one row along the edge region on the flexible film.

37. The method according to claim 29 or 30, wherein, The optoelectronic semiconductor devices each include a semiconductor chip, which is configured to emit light of different wavelengths.

38. The method according to claim 29 or 30, wherein, The optoelectronic semiconductor devices each include a semiconductor chip, the semiconductor chip including a conversion material (37) for generating mixed light; or wherein at least one of the first film, the second film and the third film has conversion particles.

39. The method according to claim 29 or 30, further comprising: - A liquid crystal film or an electrochromic film is arranged on one of the first film or the second film in the inner region.

40. The method according to claim 29 or 30, - A reflective film segment is arranged in the edge region between the edge of the edge region and the light-emitting device (30) so as to reflect the emitted light into the inner region.

41. The method according to claim 29 or 30, wherein, The optoelectronic semiconductor devices each include a semiconductor chip, which is configured to emit red light, green light, and blue light.

42. The method according to claim 29 or 30, wherein, The optoelectronic semiconductor devices each include a semiconductor chip, and the semiconductor chip includes a conversion material (37) for generating white light.

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