Piezoelectric device for breaking laminated glass components as needed

Abstract

Aspects of the present disclosure include the use of a piezoelectric device to crush a laminated glass assembly (e.g., a windshield of a vehicle) as desired. An exemplary vehicle includes a laminated glass panel having an outer glass layer, an inner glass layer, and an adhesive layer between the outer glass layer and the inner glass layer. The vehicle also includes a piezoelectric device including an actuator and a displaceable element coupled to the actuator. The actuator is made of a piezoelectric material that causes mechanical displacement in the displaceable element against at least one of the outer glass layer and the inner glass layer in response to receiving an activation voltage. The vehicle includes a controller electrically coupled to the actuator. The controller is configured to deliver an activation voltage to the actuator.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The subject disclosure relates to vehicle safety and laminated glass assemblies, and more particularly to using piezoelectric devices to break laminated glass assemblies on demand. Background Art

[0002] Vehicle safety generally refers to measures and features designed to minimize the risk of injury and damage to vehicle occupants (driver and passengers), pedestrians and other road users in the event of an automobile accident. Vehicle safety broadly covers a variety of components such as crashworthiness, occupant protection, active and passive safety systems, and pedestrian safety. Regulatory agencies and vehicle manufacturers have implemented specific standards to ensure that regulated vehicles meet stringent safety requirements. These safety standards cover all aspects of vehicle design, construction, and performance, and are constantly updated and revised to address emerging safety issues and technological advances. Summary of the invention

[0003] In one exemplary embodiment, a vehicle includes a laminated glass panel having an outer glass layer, an inner glass layer, and a bonding layer between the outer glass layer and the inner glass layer. The vehicle also includes a piezoelectric device including an actuator and a displaceable element coupled to the actuator. The actuator is made of a piezoelectric material that causes a mechanical displacement in the displaceable element against at least one of the outer glass layer and the inner glass layer in response to receiving an activation voltage. The vehicle includes a controller electrically coupled to the actuator. The controller is configured to deliver the activation voltage to the actuator.

[0004] In addition to one or more features described herein, in some embodiments, the piezoelectric device is embedded within a bonding layer of the laminated glass panel. In some embodiments, the piezoelectric device is positioned against a surface of at least one of an outer glass layer and an inner glass layer of the laminated glass panel.

[0005] In some embodiments, the vehicle further comprises an external system electrically coupled to the controller. In some embodiments, the external system is configured to predict an upcoming impact of the vehicle and, in response to predicting the upcoming impact, instruct the controller to deliver an activation voltage to the actuator.

[0006] In some embodiments, the external system includes one or more onboard vehicle sensors configured to detect an impending impact. In some embodiments, the one or more onboard sensors include at least one of a camera, a light detection and ranging (LIDAR) system, a radar sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, an inertial measurement unit (IMU), an accelerometer, a decelerator, a gyroscope, and a dedicated crash sensor.

[0007] In some embodiments, the piezoelectric material includes at least one of lead zirconate titanate (PZT), potassium sodium niobate (KNN), sodium bismuth titanate (BNT), polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA), lead magnesium niobate-lead titanate (PMN-PT) and lithium niobate (LiNbO3).

[0008] In some embodiments, the vehicle further comprises a plurality of piezoelectric devices embedded within or located adjacent to the laminated glass panel. In some embodiments, the controller is configured to selectively deliver the activation voltage to a subset of the plurality of piezoelectric devices.

[0009] In another exemplary embodiment, a laminated glass panel may include an outer glass layer, an inner glass layer, and a bonding layer between the outer glass layer and the inner glass layer. A piezoelectric device including an actuator and a displaceable element is coupled to the actuator. The actuator includes a piezoelectric material that causes a mechanical displacement in the displaceable element against at least one of the outer glass layer and the inner glass layer in response to receiving an activation voltage.

[0010] In some embodiments, the controller is electrically coupled to the actuator. In some embodiments, the controller is configured to deliver an activation voltage to the actuator.

[0011] In another exemplary embodiment, a method for breaking a laminated glass assembly on demand may include providing a piezoelectric system. The piezoelectric system may include a laminated glass panel having an outer glass layer, an inner glass layer, and a bonding layer between the outer glass layer and the inner glass layer. A piezoelectric device including an actuator and a displaceable element is coupled to the actuator. The actuator includes a piezoelectric material that causes a mechanical displacement in the displaceable element against at least one of the outer glass layer and the inner glass layer in response to receiving an activation voltage. The piezoelectric system includes a controller electrically coupled to the actuator. The controller is configured to deliver the activation voltage to the actuator. The method also includes detecting an impending impact, and in response to detecting the impending impact, causing the controller to deliver the activation voltage to the actuator, thereby causing the displaceable element to shift into at least one of the outer glass layer and the inner glass layer.

[0012] The above features and advantages and other features and advantages of the present disclosure are apparent from the following detailed description when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0013] Other features, advantages and details appear, by way of example only, in the following detailed description, which refers to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0014] Figure 1 is a vehicle constructed according to one or more embodiments;

[0015] Figure 2 According to one or more embodiments Figure 1 a cross-sectional view of a region of a laminated glass panel as shown;

[0016] Figure 3 According to one or more embodiments, Figure 2 Alternative constructions of laminated glass panels shown;

[0017] Figure 4 According to one or more embodiments, Figure 2 Yet another alternative configuration of the laminated glass panel shown;

[0018] Figure 5 A method of using a piezoelectric device to break a laminated glass assembly on demand according to one or more embodiments is shown;

[0019] Figure 6 is a computer system according to one or more embodiments; and

[0020] Figure 7 is a flow chart according to one or more embodiments. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0021] The following description is merely exemplary in nature and is not intended to limit the present disclosure, its application or use. It should be understood that throughout the drawings, corresponding reference numerals represent identical or corresponding components and features. As used herein, the term module refers to a processing circuit, which may include an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), an electronic circuit, a (shared, dedicated or grouped) processor and memory that executes one or more software or firmware programs, a combinational logic circuit, and / or other suitable components that provide the described functionality.

[0022] Vehicle safety testing involves various component-level and vehicle-level assessments, such as crash testing, mechanical testing, durability testing, and compliance with specific performance standards. Component-level testing focuses on evaluating individual safety components or component systems within a vehicle. These types of tests evaluate the performance and reliability of components such as seat belts, airbags, braking systems, and headlights. In contrast, vehicle-level testing evaluates the overall safety performance of the entire vehicle. These tests simulate real-world crash scenarios to evaluate the vehicle's structural integrity, occupant protection, and collision avoidance capabilities. Vehicle-level testing typically involves frontal, side, and rear impact tests.

[0023] An example of a vehicle-level test is a windshield impact test, although the glass panels that make up the windshield (and other glass surfaces in the vehicle) can also be tested individually in corresponding component-level tests. The windshield, located at the front of the vehicle, has several critical functions. For example, the windshield provides structural support for the vehicle's roof, maintains the integrity of the passenger compartment, and acts as a barrier between the occupants and external elements. Therefore, the windshield should have high strength and durability to withstand various forces and impacts.

[0024] Windshield impact tests specifically evaluate the performance and integrity of windshields under different impact scenarios. These tests are designed to ensure that vehicle windshields provide adequate protection for vehicle occupants and pedestrians. One measure of windshield safety evaluated using windshield impact tests is pedestrian safety, especially considering that windshields shatter due to impact. Pedestrian safety is an important aspect of vehicle safety. Specifically, with respect to windshields, the main concern is to prevent the windshield from shattering into large, sharp fragments upon impact.

[0025] In addition to windshield impact tests (or as part of windshield impact tests), vehicle safety tests related to pedestrian impacts and windshields also include headform impact tests, upper legform impact tests, and whole vehicle pedestrian impact tests. The headform impact test uses an instrumented headform (representing a pedestrian's head) to impact different areas of the windshield. The purpose of this test is to evaluate the risk of head injury based on the impact energy transmitted through the windshield during impact. The windshield should be designed to absorb and distribute the impact energy to minimize damage. The upper legform impact test uses a legform impactor to simulate a pedestrian's upper leg impacting the windshield. This test evaluates the risk of leg injuries in an impact event. The whole vehicle pedestrian impact test involves the use of pedestrian dummies to simulate various collision scenarios, including collisions with the vehicle windshield. The purpose of these tests is to evaluate the overall pedestrian protection provided by the vehicle, including the performance of the windshield in reducing the severity of injuries.

[0026] One approach used to improve occupant and pedestrian safety is to replace standard glass windshields with windshields made of laminated glass. Laminated glass consists of two (or more) layers of glass with a plastic interlayer sandwiched between them. The laminated structure helps hold the glass together in the event of an impact, reducing the risk of large fragments shattering. For this reason, almost all modern vehicles incorporate laminated glass windshields.

[0027] The present disclosure describes a way to shatter a laminated glass assembly using a piezoelectric device as needed. Rather than allowing a laminated glass assembly (e.g., a windshield) to shatter upon impact, aspects of the present disclosure describe a system and method whereby the laminated glass assembly is shattered, pre-cracked, and / or otherwise damaged prior to impact. In some embodiments, an onboard vehicle sensor (e.g., a camera and a light detection and ranging (LIDAR) system) is used to detect an impending impact, and the laminated glass assembly is shattered in response to detecting the impending impact. The laminated glass assembly can be shattered by actuating a piezoelectric device to impact a surface of the laminated glass assembly. In some embodiments, the piezoelectric device is embedded or integrated into a surface of a laminated glass assembly of a vehicle (e.g., on or within a front windshield). In some embodiments, a control system actuates the piezoelectric device upon receiving a control signal. The control signal can be sent in response to detecting an impending impact.

[0028] Laminated glass assemblies with integrated and / or embedded piezoelectric devices configured to shatter glass on demand provide several technical advantages over existing laminated glass assemblies and vehicle safety systems. Shattering a laminated glass assembly prior to impact can significantly improve safety metrics because the glass can be damaged, shattered, and / or otherwise weakened prior to impact. In addition, integrated and / or embedded piezoelectric devices can be strategically positioned in or around the laminated glass assembly to fine-tune shattering parameters after impact detection. For example, the technology can be used to weaken portions of a windshield directly opposite an impact while leaving the remainder of the windshield (e.g., those portions in front of the driver) intact. In this way, laminated glass assemblies with integrated and / or embedded piezoelectric devices can improve vehicle safety for occupants and pedestrians.

[0029] Significantly, the laminated glass assemblies described herein mitigate or entirely eliminate aspects of the uncertainty caused by windshield or other glass panel shattering upon impact. In particular, the laminated glass assemblies described herein can be configured to shatter predictably upon impact, regardless of a range of variables, including windshield thickness, glass composition, geometry, impact location, impact angle, and variables associated with the impact object, such as its size, shape, and weight. In this manner, potential impacts become well-defined scenarios regarding windshield shattering.

[0030] According to an exemplary embodiment, the vehicle Figure 1The vehicle 100 is generally indicated at 100. The vehicle 100 is shown in the form of an automobile having a body 102. The body 102 includes a passenger compartment 104, in which a steering wheel, front seats and rear passenger seats (not shown separately) are arranged. The body 102 also includes a plurality of glass or glass laminate assemblies, such as a laminated glass panel 106. For ease of illustration and discussion only, emphasis is placed on a specific laminated glass panel 106 (here the front passenger side window). It should be understood that any aspect of the present disclosure may be applied to any glass and glass laminate assembly in the vehicle 100, including, for example, a front windshield, any driver door and passenger door (front door and rear door), a rear glass panel, a sunroof / top window, etc. In short, the location, size, arrangement, etc. of the laminated glass panel 106 are not meant to be particularly limited, and all such constructions are within the intended scope of the present disclosure.

[0031] As will be described in detail herein, the laminated glass panel 106 includes one or more piezoelectric devices 108 positioned to break the laminated glass panel 106 when actuated and / or activated. In some embodiments, one or more of the piezoelectric devices 108 are embedded between one or more layers of the laminated glass panel 106 (reference areas 110 and Figure 2 In some embodiments, one or more of the piezoelectric devices 108 are integrated onto a surface (eg, an interior surface, an exterior surface, or both) of the laminated glass panel 106 (see Figure 3 In some embodiments, one or more of the piezoelectric devices 108 are embedded between one or more layers of the laminated glass panel 106, and one or more of the piezoelectric devices 108 are integrated onto the surface of the laminated glass panel 106 (see Figure 4 ).

[0032] For ease of discussion only, region 110 depicts an example arrangement of one or more piezoelectric devices 108, and it should be understood that one or more piezoelectric devices 108 may be arranged, positioned, and / or otherwise configured anywhere within and / or on the laminated glass panel 106 as desired. All of these configurations are within the intended scope of the present disclosure. For example, in some embodiments, some or all of the piezoelectric devices 108 may be placed in a so-called blackout region of the laminated glass panel 106 that has been obstructed from view (typically positioned along the periphery of the panel). In this manner, the piezoelectric device 108 may be completely or partially removed from the visible area of ​​the laminated glass panel 106 (e.g., the front windshield of the vehicle 100).

[0033] Figure 2 shows a schematic diagram of a laminate after lamination according to one or more embodiments. Figure 1 A cross-sectional view of a region 110 of a laminated glass panel 106 is shown. Figure 2As shown, the laminated glass panel 106 includes a piezoelectric device 108 laminated between an outer glass layer 202 (also referred to as an outer glass ply) and an inner glass layer 204 (also referred to as an inner glass ply). In some embodiments, the outer glass layer 202 includes two or more laminated glass layers. Similarly, in some embodiments, the inner glass layer 204 includes two or more laminated glass layers.

[0034] In some embodiments, the laminated glass panel 106 includes one or more internal reinforcement layers 206. In some embodiments, the laminated glass panel 106 includes a bonding layer 208. In some embodiments, the piezoelectric device 108 is laminated within the bonding layer 208 between the outer glass layer 202 and the inner glass layer 204 (as shown). In some embodiments, the one or more internal reinforcement layers 206 are located between the glass layers (e.g., the outer glass layer 202 and the inner glass layer 204) and the bonding layer 208.

[0035] The material composition of the outer glass layer 202, the inner glass layer 204, the inner reinforcement layer 206, and the bonding layer 208 (collectively referred to as the laminated layers) is not meant to be particularly limited and will vary depending on the needs of the corresponding application (e.g., the desired structural, thermal and optical properties of the laminated glass panel 106, etc.). In some embodiments, for example, the inner reinforcement layer 206 can be made of a plastic interlayer material, such as a polyvinyl butyral (PVB) film. In some embodiments, the outer glass layer 202 and the inner glass layer 204 are made of glass, polycarbonate (PC) materials, acrylic materials (such as polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA)), thermoplastics (such as thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU)) and / or glass ceramic materials (such as soda-lime-silica glass ceramics, aluminosilicate glass ceramics, lithium aluminosilicate glass ceramics, spinel glass ceramics, and β-quartz glass ceramics). The bonding layer 208 can be made of the same or different material as the inner reinforcement layer 206.

[0036] The thickness of each laminate layer of the laminated glass panel 106 is not meant to be particularly limited and will vary depending on the needs of the respective application (e.g., desired structural, thermal and optical properties, etc.). In some embodiments, for example, the outer glass layer 202, the inner glass layer 204, the inner reinforcement layer 206, and the bonding layer 208 are each formed to a thickness of 1 to 100 microns or more (e.g., the layers may be several inches thick if desired).

[0037] During the glass-PVB lamination process, the piezoelectric device 108 can be laminated between the lamination layers of the laminated glass panel 106. In some embodiments, the piezoelectric device 108, the outer glass layer 202, the inner glass layer 204, the inner reinforcement layer 206 (e.g., PVB film), and the bonding layer 208 are heat sealed under pressure to laminate the final structure (i.e., the laminated glass panel 106). In some embodiments, the piezoelectric device 108 can be made of the same or less thickness than the bonding layer 208. In some embodiments, the piezoelectric device 108 is placed in a cutout in the bonding layer 208 prior to the glass / PVB / glass lamination process.

[0038] In some embodiments, lamination involves a pressure of 10 kg-f / cm 2 The laminated glass panel 106 may be heated (e.g., at a temperature greater than 100 degrees Celsius) and quenched in an autoclave at a pressure of 100°C or more, but other lamination conditions (temperature, pressure, etc.) are within the contemplated scope of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the laminated glass panel 106 may be formed to a total post-lamination thickness of 0.1 mm to 10 mm or more (e.g., 0.3 mm, 0.7 mm, 2 mm, one inch, several inches, etc.), depending on the application and design goals.

[0039] Turning now to the piezoelectric device 108, in some embodiments, the piezoelectric device 108 includes an actuator 210 and a displaceable element 212 electrically and / or mechanically coupled to the actuator 210. The actuator 210 can be made of any suitable piezoelectric material, such as lead zirconate titanate (PZT), potassium sodium niobate (KNN), sodium bismuth titanate (BNT), piezoelectric polymers such as polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) and poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA), single crystal piezoelectric materials such as lead magnesium niobate-lead titanate (PMN-PT), and lithium niobate (LiNbO3).

[0040] These materials can be selected based on their ability to cause vertical displacement in the displaceable element 212 based on the piezoelectric effect. The piezoelectric effect is the ability of certain materials to generate an electric charge in response to mechanical stress or strain, and vice versa. In some embodiments, when a voltage is applied to the actuator 210, the actuator 210 undergoes a dimensional change due to the piezoelectric effect. These dimensional changes can be used to produce a controlled mechanical displacement (represented by a dashed embossed line) in the displaceable element 212. In some embodiments, this controlled mechanical displacement is used to vertically displace the displaceable element 212 toward and / or away from the outer glass layer 202 and the inner glass layer 204. In some embodiments, this controlled mechanical displacement is used to vertically displace the displaceable element 212 into one or both of the outer glass layer 202 and the inner glass layer 204 to induce cracks (i.e., damage or break the glass layer) in those respective surfaces.

[0041] The displaceable element 212 may be a metal, metal alloy, and / or carbide tip that can be vertically displaced by the actuator 210, but any material that is hard enough to damage the outer glass layer 202 and the inner glass layer 204 may be used. Although not meant to be particularly limited, one or more displaceable elements 212 may alternatively or additionally be plates, rods, and / or any other form or structure that allows vertical movement and delivery of a point force (e.g., via a tip or face) against the surface of one or both of the outer glass layer 202 and the inner glass layer 204. The displaceable element 212 may be mechanically and / or electrically attached to the actuator 210. In this manner, when the actuator 210 undergoes a dimensional change in response to an applied voltage, the displaceable element 212 may be vertically displaced to apply a force to the outer glass layer 202 and / or the inner glass layer 204 via direct contact. The magnitude of the displacement depends on the magnitude of the applied voltage delivered to the actuator 210.

[0042] In some embodiments, the vertical displacement of the actuator 210 can be precisely controlled by adjusting the voltage applied to the actuator 210 via the controller 214 (also referred to as an electrical connector). In some embodiments, the controller 214 is electrically coupled to the actuator 210 via one or more wires 216 (also referred to as signal wires). In some embodiments, a portion of the wires 216 are embedded in the laminated glass panel 106 (as shown).

[0043] In some embodiments, controller 214 itself is electrically coupled to one or more external systems 218. External system 218 may include, for example, an electronic control unit (ECU) of vehicle 100. In some embodiments, external system 218 is a special purpose computer that receives, processes, and generates electrical signals to manage and regulate the function of one or more vehicle components (e.g., controller 214 and / or piezoelectric device 108).

[0044] In some embodiments, the controller 214 and / or the external system 218 are configured to predict and sense impacts of the vehicle 100. For example, the controller 214 and / or the external system 218 may be configured to predict a frontal impact, a side impact, a rear impact, etc. In some embodiments, the controller 214 and / or the external system 218 detects an impending impact using one or more onboard vehicle sensors (not separately shown), such as, for example, cameras, light detection and ranging (LIDAR) systems, radar sensors, ultrasonic sensors, inertial measurement units (IMUs) such as accelerometers and gyroscopes that measure acceleration, orientation, and angular velocity of the vehicle 100, and / or specialized crash sensors such as accelerometers and decelerometers.

[0045] In some embodiments, controller 214 and / or external system 218 are configured to send an activation voltage to actuator 210 (using, for example, wire 216) in response to predicting an upcoming impact of vehicle 100. In some embodiments, the activation voltage causes actuator 210 to displace displaceable element 212 into outer glass layer 202 and / or inner glass layer 204, as previously described. In this manner, outer glass layer 202 and / or inner glass layer 204 can be controllably and predictably shattered in response to detecting an upcoming impact (i.e., on demand). In some embodiments, piezoelectric device 108 functions as a crack initiator (wherein individual cracks are initiated at the contact point between the respective piezoelectric device and the glass).

[0046] Figure 3 According to one or more embodiments, Figure 2 The laminated glass panel 106 may be constructed in an alternative manner as described with respect to Figure 2 Made in a similar manner as discussed above, except Figure 3 The illustrated laminated glass panel 106 includes a plurality of piezoelectric devices 108 (here, four devices) positioned against a surface 302 of the inner glass layer 204. In some embodiments, one or more piezoelectric devices 108 are positioned against a surface 304 of the outer glass layer 202 (not separately shown).

[0047] As previously described, in some embodiments, the controller 214 and / or the external system 218 (represented together herein) may be configured to send an activation voltage to the actuators 210 in response to predicting an upcoming impact of the vehicle 100. In some embodiments, the controller 214 and / or the external system 218 may be configured to selectively send the activation voltage to a specific subset (one or more, but not all) of the actuators 210 in response to predicting an upcoming impact of the vehicle 100. In this manner, the laminated glass panel 106 may be selectively weakened or otherwise damaged in a target location / area.

[0048] In some embodiments, the controller 214 and / or the external system 218 can be configured to detect an estimated impact area on the laminated glass panel 106. In some embodiments, the controller 214 and / or the external system 218 can be configured to activate one or more of the actuators 210 within a predetermined proximity of the estimated impact area. For example, the controller 214 and / or the external system 218 can be configured to activate a subset of the actuators 210 directly within the estimated impact area, or alternatively activate a subset of the actuators 210 within a predetermined distance (e.g., 1 mm, 1 inch, 5 inches, 1 foot, etc.) of the boundary of the estimated impact area. The activated subset of the actuators 210 may be within a predetermined proximity of the estimated impact area. Figure 2It is noted that in some embodiments, one or more of the actuators 210 (i.e., those outside the estimated impact region and / or outside a predetermined distance from the region) remain inactive. The inactive subset of the actuators 210 is shown in FIG. Figure 2 Represented by a stylized cross.

[0049] Figure 4 According to one or more embodiments, Figure 2 The laminated glass panel 106 may be constructed in an alternative manner as described with respect to Figure 2 Made in a similar manner as discussed above, except Figure 4 The illustrated laminated glass panel 106 includes a plurality of piezoelectric devices 108 (here, four devices) positioned against a surface 302 of the inner glass layer 204 and one or more piezoelectric devices 108 (here, two) embedded within a bonding layer 208 .

[0050] like Figure 4 As further shown in FIG. 2 , two piezoelectric devices 108 embedded within a bonding layer 208 can be positioned together in an orientation facing away from each other. In this manner, activating the two piezoelectric devices 108 will cause them to press against each other, greatly increasing the forces applied to the outer glass layer 202 and / or the inner glass layer 204 (because the forces applied to each other must themselves be redirected).

[0051] Figure 5 A method 500 for breaking a laminated glass assembly on demand using a piezoelectric device is shown according to one or more embodiments. The process 500 may be performed using, for example, a piezoelectric device 108 of a vehicle 100 to break a laminated glass panel 106 (see Figure 1 ). It should be appreciated that while process 500 is largely discussed with respect to a single piezoelectric device for convenience, the underlying techniques may be applied to any number of piezoelectric devices.

[0052] Process 500 begins at step 502, where a vehicle impact is sensed or otherwise detected. The vehicle impact may be a predicted (upcoming) impact or an actual impact that occurs immediately. In some embodiments, the vehicle impact is a predicted frontal vehicle impact. The impact may be sensed or predicted using, for example, an ECU of vehicle 100.

[0053] At step 504, a signal is sent to activate the piezoelectric device. The signal may include an activation voltage applied to an actuator of the piezoelectric device. For example, a voltage may be applied to actuator 210.

[0054] At step 506 , the actuator causes the displaceable element to impact the laminated glass assembly. For example, the actuator 210 can cause the displaceable element 212 to displace into the outer glass layer 202 and / or the inner glass layer 204 of the laminated glass panel 106 .

[0055] At step 508, a crack is formed at the impact location (crack initiation begins). For example, a crack may be formed where the displaceable element 212 impacts the outer glass layer 202 and / or the inner glass layer 204 of the laminated glass panel 106. In this way, the laminated glass panel 106 may be damaged prior to actual impact.

[0056] Figure 6 1 shows aspects of an embodiment of a computer system 600 that can perform various aspects of the embodiments described herein. In some embodiments, the computer system 600 can be incorporated into or combined with a controller (e.g., controller 214) and / or an external system (e.g., external system 218) of the vehicle 100 (see FIG. 1 ). Figures 1 to 4 ). The computer system 600 includes at least one processing device 602, which typically includes one or more processors for performing various functions, such as detecting / predicting an impact and controlling an activation voltage to one or more actuators of one or more piezoelectric devices. More specifically, the computer system 600 may include the logic required to detect and / or predict an impact to a vehicle and direct an activation voltage to the actuators of the piezoelectric devices in response to detecting and / or predicting an impact.

[0057] Components of computer system 600 include a processing device 602 (such as one or more processors or processing units), a system memory 604, and a bus 606 that couples various system components including system memory 604 to processing device 602. System memory 604 may include various computer system readable media. Such media may be any available media that can be accessed by processing device 602, and includes both volatile and nonvolatile media and removable and non-removable media.

[0058] For example, system memory 604 includes non-volatile memory 608, such as a hard drive, and may also include volatile memory 610, such as random access memory (RAM) and / or cache memory. Computer system 600 may also include other removable / non-removable, volatile / non-volatile computer system storage media.

[0059] The system memory 604 may include at least one program product having a set (e.g., at least one) of program modules that are configured to perform the functions of the embodiments described herein. For example, the system memory 604 stores various program modules that generally perform the functions and / or methods of the embodiments described herein. One or more modules 612, 614 may be included to perform functions related to collision detection and / or control of actuators of one or more piezoelectric devices. The computer system 600 is not limited thereto, as other modules may be included depending on the desired functions of the vehicle 100. As used herein, the term "module" refers to a processing circuit, which may include an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), an electronic circuit, a processor (shared, dedicated or group) and memory that executes one or more software or firmware programs, a combinational logic circuit, and / or other suitable components that provide the described functions. For example, a module may be constructed via software, hardware, and / or firmware to apply a signal (activation voltage) to an actuator of one or more piezoelectric devices.

[0060] The processing device 602 may also be configured to communicate with one or more external devices 616, such as a keyboard, a pointing device, and / or any device that enables the processing device 602 to communicate with one or more other computing devices (e.g., a network card, a modem, an additional vehicle ECU, etc.). Communication with various devices may occur via input / output (I / O) interfaces 618 and 620.

[0061] The processing device 602 may also communicate with one or more networks 622, such as a local area network (LAN), a general wide area network (WAN), a bus network, and / or a public network (e.g., the Internet) via a network adapter 624. In some embodiments, the network adapter 624 is or includes an optical network adapter for communicating over an optical network. It should be understood that, although not shown, other hardware and / or software components may be used in conjunction with the computer system 600. Examples include, but are not limited to, microcode, device drivers, redundant processing units, external disk drive arrays, RAID systems, and data archival storage systems, among others.

[0062] Reference now Figure 7 , a flowchart 700 is generally shown for breaking a laminated glass assembly as desired using a piezoelectric embodiment, according to one embodiment. Figures 1 to 6 Flowchart 700 is described and may include Figure 7 Although depicted in a particular order, Figure 7 The blocks depicted in the drawings may be rearranged, subdivided, and / or combined.

[0063] At block 702, the method includes providing a piezoelectric system. The piezoelectric system includes a laminated glass panel having an outer glass layer, an inner glass layer, and a bonding layer between the outer glass layer and the inner glass layer.

[0064] At block 704, the method includes providing a piezoelectric device having an actuator and a displaceable element coupled to the actuator. The actuator includes a piezoelectric material that induces a mechanical displacement in the displaceable element against at least one of the outer glass layer and the inner glass layer in response to receiving an activation voltage.

[0065] In some embodiments, the piezoelectric device is embedded within a bonding layer of the laminated glass panel. In some embodiments, the piezoelectric device is positioned against a surface of at least one of an outer glass layer and an inner glass layer of the laminated glass panel.

[0066] At block 706, the method includes electrically coupling a controller to the actuator. The controller is configured to deliver an activation voltage to the actuator.

[0067] At block 708 , the method includes detecting an upcoming impact.

[0068] At block 710 , the method includes causing a controller to deliver an activation voltage to an actuator to displace a displaceable element into at least one of the outer glass layer and the inner glass layer in response to detecting an impending impact.

[0069] In some embodiments, the piezoelectric system further comprises an external system electrically coupled to the controller. The external system is configured to predict an upcoming impact and, in response to predicting an upcoming impact, instruct the controller to deliver an activation voltage to the actuator. In some embodiments, the external system comprises one or more onboard vehicle sensors configured to detect an upcoming impact. In some embodiments, the one or more onboard sensors comprise at least one of a camera, a LIDAR system, a radar sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, an IMU, an accelerometer, a decelerator, a gyroscope, and a dedicated crash sensor.

[0070] The terms "a" and "an" do not indicate a limitation of quantity, but rather indicate the presence of at least one of the referenced item. Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the term "or" means "and / or". References to "aspects" throughout the specification mean that a particular element (e.g., a feature, structure, step, or characteristic) described in conjunction with that aspect is included in at least one aspect described herein, and may or may not be present in other aspects. In addition, it should be understood that the described elements may be combined in any suitable manner in the various aspects.

[0071] When an element such as a layer, film, region, or substrate is referred to as being "on" another element, it can be directly on the other element or intervening elements may also be present. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being "directly on" another element, there are no intervening elements present.

[0072] Unless stated to the contrary herein, all test standards are the most current standards in effect as of the filing date of this application or, if priority is claimed, the filing date of the earliest priority application in which the test standards appear.

[0073] Unless defined otherwise, technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure belongs.

[0074] Although the above disclosure has been described with reference to exemplary embodiments, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made and equivalents may be substituted for its elements without departing from its scope. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt specific circumstances or materials to the teachings of the disclosure without departing from the basic scope of the disclosure. Therefore, it is intended that the disclosure is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed, but will include all embodiments falling within its scope.

Claims

1. A vehicle comprising: A laminated glass panel comprising an outer glass layer, an inner glass layer, and a bonding layer between the outer glass layer and the inner glass layer; a piezoelectric device comprising an actuator and a displaceable element coupled to the actuator, the actuator comprising a piezoelectric material that induces a mechanical displacement in the displaceable element against at least one of the outer glass layer and the inner glass layer in response to receiving an activation voltage; as well as A controller is electrically coupled to the actuator, the controller being configured to deliver the activation voltage to the actuator.

2. The vehicle of claim 1, wherein the piezoelectric device is embedded within a bonding layer of the laminated glass panel. 3 . The vehicle of claim 1 , wherein the piezoelectric device is positioned against a surface of at least one of an outer glass layer and an inner glass layer of the laminated glass panel.

4. The vehicle of claim 1 , further comprising an external system electrically coupled to the controller, the external system being configured to: predicting an imminent impact of the vehicle; and In response to predicting the upcoming impact, the controller is instructed to deliver the activation voltage to the actuator. 5 . The vehicle of claim 4 , wherein the external system includes one or more onboard vehicle sensors configured to detect the impending impact.

6. The vehicle of claim 5, wherein the one or more onboard vehicle sensors include at least one of a camera, a light detection and ranging (LIDAR) system, a radar sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, an inertial measurement unit (IMU), an accelerometer, a decelerator, a gyroscope, and a dedicated collision sensor.

7. The vehicle of claim 1, wherein the piezoelectric material comprises at least one of lead zirconate titanate (PZT), potassium sodium niobate (KNN), sodium bismuth titanate (BNT), polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA), lead magnesium niobate-lead titanate (PMN-PT), and lithium niobate (LiNbO3).

8. The vehicle of claim 1 further comprising a plurality of piezoelectric devices embedded within or located adjacent to the laminated glass panel.

9. The vehicle of claim 8, wherein the controller is further configured to selectively deliver the activation voltage to a subset of the plurality of piezoelectric devices.

10. A laminated glass panel comprising: Outer glass layer; Inner glass layer; a bonding layer between the outer glass layer and the inner glass layer; as well as A piezoelectric device includes an actuator and a displaceable element coupled to the actuator, the actuator including a piezoelectric material that induces a mechanical displacement in the displaceable element against at least one of the outer glass layer and the inner glass layer in response to receiving an activation voltage.

Images