Connection device with flat conductor connection element and electrical line connection

Abstract

The invention relates to a connection device (104) comprising a vitrification unit (100) having an electrical component (6) and a flat conductor connection element (1), the flat conductor connection element (1) being guided out of the vitrification unit (100) via a second connection region (1.7) between two sheets (101, 102), an electrical conductor track (1.1) of the flat conductor connection element (1) is provided for electrically contacting an electrical component, sealing means (4, 4.1) are arranged at a first end (1.4) and / or a second end (1.7) of the flat conductor connection element (1), and wherein the flat conductor connection element (1) has at least one recess (4.2) in the region of an outer edge (1.3), and the grooves (4.2) are filled with an adhesive layer, an adhesive tape (4.1) or a thermoplastic layer.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to a connection device and an electrical line connection having a flat-conductor connection element. Background Art

[0002] In the case of composite panes having at least two rigid panes and an intermediate layer connecting the panes in a planar manner and electrical components, such line connections usually include a transition from a flat conductor connection element to a round cable. The electrical components installed in the composite panes can be heating components, antenna elements and functional elements, which are installed flat and can be electrically contacted via so-called busbars. Composite panes assembled in this way are used as glazing units in automobiles, such as windshields, rear panes and side panes, or also in the construction sector.

[0003] The functional elements are embedded in the composite sheet. During the production of the composite sheet, the functional elements are cut to the required size and shape and inserted between the films of the intermediate layer. A typical intermediate layer is a polyvinyl butyral film, which, in addition to its adhesive properties, has high toughness and high acoustic damping properties. The intermediate layer prevents the composite sheet from disintegrating in the event of damage. The composite sheet only forms cracks but remains dimensionally stable.

[0004] These composite sheets contain functional elements as vitrified elements, which generally include an active layer between two planar electrodes. The optical properties of the active layer can be changed by a voltage applied to the planar electrodes. For example, the electrochromic functional element known from US20120026573A1 is an example of such a functional element. For example, the SPD functional element (suspended particle device) or PDLC functional element (polymer dispersed liquid crystal) known from EP0876608B1 and WO2011033313A1 is another example.

[0005] In order to lead the flexible line connection as an external connection from the inside of the composite sheet, a flat cable is usually used, which consists of at least one thin carrier substrate and at least one metal conductor track (conductor strip). In addition, a cover layer can be provided so that the flat conductors form a three-layer laminate as a whole. The flat conductors are welded to the connection face close to the edge of the composite sheet and are only led outwards on this edge, where they are connected to the round cable at a certain distance from the edge.

[0006] In practice, flat conductor connection elements with a plurality of electrical conductor tracks are used for contacting. The electrical conductor tracks are very thin, for example in the range of 0.03 mm to 0.1 mm in thickness, and are made, for example, of copper, which has proven successful because of its good electrical conductivity and good processability. At the same time, the material costs are relatively low.

[0007] Such a flat conductor connecting element has a first connection area for contacting an electrical component in the composite sheet, such as a functional element. At the other end, the flat conductor connecting element is guided out of the composite sheet. Since it is unavoidable that moisture can penetrate into the composite sheet along the flat cable, interference may occur at the contact point due to sealing defects. The second connection area is located at the end of the flat conductor connecting element that is guided out of the composite sheet. The second connection area is provided for contacting a connecting cable (round cable). The connecting cable usually has a prefabricated connection piece on one side, such as a plug or a socket, via which the round cable can be connected to an external electrical device.

[0008] However, the transition area between the flat conductor connecting element and the round cable is sensitive to dust, dirt and moisture and is therefore embedded in a housing, casing or encapsulation made of plastic. Since it is impossible to avoid moisture from penetrating into the encapsulation, faults at the connection point can also occur here due to sealing defects.

[0009] JP2003257597A (English abstract) discloses a planar heating element which is arranged on the end portion of a wire connected to a power supply via a conductive strip.

[0010] GB2539834A describes an electrical connection part, which electrically connects a flat cable to a cable, wherein the electrical connection part comprises a first seal, an optional second seal and a capsule. The capsule surrounds at least the first seal and the electrical contact. In this embodiment, interference at the connection point with the round cable or in the composite sheet cannot be avoided. Summary of the invention

[0011] The object of the present invention is to provide an improved electrical line connection which ensures a reliable and permanent waterproof seal at the contact points in the composite pane and / or at the transition area of ​​the flat-conductor connecting element to the connecting cable.

[0012] This object is achieved by the invention as stated in the independent claim. Preferred embodiments are evident from the dependent claims.

[0013] The connection device according to the invention comprises a glazing unit with an electrical component and a flat conductor connection element, the flat conductor connection element having at least one electrical conductor track and a cover film for electrically insulating the at least one conductor track. In addition, the flat conductor connection element has a first connection area at a first end and a second connection area at a second end. The first connection area is arranged between two sheets of the glazing unit. In addition, the flat conductor connection element is guided out of the glazing unit through the second connection area between the two sheets. The electrical conductor track is provided for electrically contacting the electrical component of the glazing unit. A sealing device is arranged at the first end and / or the second end of the flat conductor connection element, wherein the sealing device is provided for blocking water capillaries formed on the flat conductor connection element. In particular, in the installed state, water capillaries can be formed along the cover film and are blocked by the sealing device arranged on the flat conductor connection element. The arrangement of such a sealing device (seal) ensures that water and moisture are prevented from entering the glazing unit or the encapsulation.

[0014] The sealing device can be an adhesive tape with an adhesive layer and is provided for connecting the flat conductor connecting element to the vitrification unit or the plastic component so that a high-density and durable connection between the flat conductor connecting element and the vitrification unit or the encapsulation can exist at the respective ends of the flat conductor connecting element in the connection area.

[0015] In an advantageous embodiment, the sealing device is designed as a double-sided adhesive tape. In particular, the adhesive tape can be an acrylic adhesive tape. In addition, the adhesive tape can be transparent. The material thickness of the adhesive tape can have a thickness of 25 μm to 2 mm, preferably 100 μm to 150 μm, and particularly preferably 130 μm [micrometer]. The adhesive tape can be arranged on both sides of the flat conductor connecting element. The adhesive tape can be connected to the cover film of the flat conductor connecting element in a planar manner via an adhesive layer. The bonding of the encapsulation part to the flat conductor connecting element is advantageously supported by the bonding of the adhesive tape, so that the connection between the encapsulation part and the flat conductor connecting element is very tight and stable.

[0016] A particularly advantageous embodiment of the adhesive tape provides that the adhesive tape extends beyond the outer edge of the flat-conductor connecting element. For this purpose, the adhesive tape can be wider than the flat-conductor connecting element. In this case, the adhesive tape extends beyond the outer edge of the cover film of the flat-conductor connecting element. The adhesive tape thus acts as a capillary barrier. This embodiment is particularly advantageous because it is easy to produce.

[0017] In other words, the adhesive tape at least partially has an edge region, which is located between the side edges of the adhesive tape, and the side edges are in a distance perpendicular to the outer edge of the flat conductor connecting element. The edge region of the adhesive tape is preferably formed along the peripheral edge of the cover film, wherein the width of the edge region is either constant or can be varied. The width of the edge region can be up to 1.5 mm [millimeter]. Therefore, the adhesive tape serves as an edge seal at the flat conductor connecting element.

[0018] The flat conductor connecting element has at least one groove in the outer edge region (especially in the cover film), wherein the groove can be open to the outer edge. Preferably, the groove is arranged on the insulating edge region of the flat conductor connecting element. The groove can be punched out of the cover film of the flat conductor connecting element. In addition, at least one groove can be arc-shaped or rectangular. Such a groove can taper from the outer edge in the direction of the conductor track. The groove can be filled with an adhesive layer, an adhesive tape and / or a thermoplastic layer (especially an intermediate layer), thereby preventing water from entering along the outer edge by capillary action. Therefore, at least one groove acts as an additional capillary barrier.

[0019] The cover film has a material thickness of 25 μm to 50 μm. When using flat-conductor connecting elements, this thickness is particularly suitable for achieving adequate insulation of the at least one conductor track. Such thin flat-conductor connecting elements are particularly flexible and can, for example, be easily laminated into and removed from a glass unit designed as a composite pane.

[0020] The first covering film preferably comprises polyimide (PI) or polyester, and particularly preferably polyethylene terephthalate (PET) or polyethylene naphthalate (PEN), or consists thereof. The covering film can also consist of an electrical insulating varnish, and preferably of a polymer varnish. The covering film can also include or consist of thermoplastics and elastomers, such as polyamide, polyoxymethylene, polybutylene terephthalate or ethylene propylene diene rubber. Alternatively, potting materials such as acrylate or epoxy resin systems can also be used as covering films. Such covering films are cost-effective and simplify the production process.

[0021] A flat conductor connection element (also referred to as a flat ribbon cable or flat conductor) comprises at least one electrical conductor track, which is applied to a cover film as a carrier substrate made of plastic, and which is also covered with a cover film as a cover layer. The cover film forms an insulating sheath that surrounds the electrical conductor track. In particular, a flexible and / or bendable flat conductor connection element is used to electrically connect to an electrical component (such as a functional element or a planar electrode). A flexible flat conductor connection element is a flat body with two opposite sides, and can be optionally made into a plane or a curved shape. In a plane (i.e., non-bent) state, the flat conductor connection element is arranged in a plane. The flat conductor connection element is usually elongated and has two ends along its extension direction. The flat conductor connection element can also be provided with a plurality of electrical conductor tracks, which extend in particular in parallel. Preferably, the flat conductor connection element can have up to 32, and particularly preferably 8 to 10 conductor tracks. The conductor tracks are arranged in a common plane. Each conductor track can have a rectangular cross section. The flat conductor connection element is an elongated electrical component with a plurality of electrical conductor tracks, and the width of the component is significantly greater than the thickness. The flat conductor connecting element is so thin (ie has such a small thickness) that it is flexible and bendable. Its width can be 0.1 mm to 100 mm.

[0022] Furthermore, the flat-conductor connecting element comprises at least two connection areas, wherein the contact points of the conductor tracks are located at two ends of the flat-conductor connecting element which are opposite in the extension direction. The two connection areas of the flat-conductor connecting element serve for electrically contacting the conductor tracks, for which purpose the cover film (i.e. the carrier layer and / or the insulating layer) is not present or is removed at least at the contact points so that the conductor tracks are contactable.

[0023] The electrical conductor tracks are arranged at least partially side by side and / or superimposed on each other. In another advantageous embodiment of the present invention, at least two electrical conductor tracks are arranged superimposed on each other in at least two planes, and preferably in exactly two planes, or in exactly three planes or in exactly four planes. "Superimposed on each other" here means relative to the extension plane of the flat conductor connecting element, i.e. relative to the plane unfolded by the two larger dimensions (length and width) of the flat conductor connecting element. Advantageously, at least two conductor tracks are arranged uniformly in each case in a projection orthogonal to the extension plane. Alternatively, the conductor track can also be designed to be larger in one plane and substantially partially or completely occupy the plane within the flat conductor connecting element-preferably minus the insulating edge area. This increases the current carrying capacity of the conductor track.

[0024] Each electrical conductor track can be electrically contacted with two contact points spaced apart from one another along the conductor track. The contact points are electrically contactable areas of the conductor track. In the simplest embodiment, they are accessible areas of the electrical conductor track. In this case, it may be necessary and expedient to provide a separate line connection for each pole, so that the conductor track of the flat-conductor connecting element is used in each case for connection to a conductor of a cable.

[0025] The conductor tracks are applied by means of a printing method. Alternatively, the electrical conductor tracks are prefabricated as metal strips made of metal film and laminated on both sides with plastic material. In both cases, the electrical conductor tracks are mechanically stabilized and embedded in an insulating sheath consisting of a covering film, so that they are electrically insulated from the external environment.

[0026] The metal film may contain or consist of a copper film, an aluminum film, a stainless steel film, a tin film, a gold film or a silver film. The metal film may also contain or consist of an alloy of the above metals. The metal film may advantageously be partially tin-plated or completely tin-plated. This is particularly advantageous for achieving good solderability and at the same time corrosion protection.

[0027] In an advantageous embodiment of the flat-conductor connecting element according to the invention, at least one conductor track has a thickness of 35 μm to 100 μm, and preferably a thickness of 50 μm to 75 μm. According to one embodiment, the electrical conductor track has a width of 0.05 mm to 40 mm, preferably a width of 1 mm to 20 mm, and in particular a width of 2 mm to 5 mm. Such a width is particularly suitable for achieving a sufficient current carrying capacity in combination with the above-mentioned thicknesses.

[0028] The invention also relates to a connection device comprising a glazed unit with an electrical component, in particular a functional element, and a flat-conductor connection element according to the invention. The functional element may be a PDLC functional element.

[0029] In another embodiment of the connecting device according to the invention, at least one conductor track of the flat-conductor connecting element can be electrically conductively connected to the electrical component via a solder connection. Alternatively, the electrical connection can be produced via an adhesive connection by means of an electrically conductive adhesive.

[0030] The vitrification unit comprises a first pane and a second pane and two intermediate layers between the first pane and the second pane. The functional element is arranged between the two intermediate layers, wherein the flat conductor connecting element is electrically conductively connected to a planar electrode of the functional element at one end.

[0031] The glazing unit as a composite sheet comprises a first sheet and a second sheet, which are preferably made of glass and particularly preferably made of soda lime glass, such as is customary in window glazing. However, the sheets can also be made of other types of glass, such as quartz glass, borosilicate glass or aluminosilicate glass, or of hard transparent plastic, such as polycarbonate or polymethyl methacrylate. The sheets can be transparent or also tinted or colored. If the glazing unit is used as a windshield, it should have sufficient light transmittance in the central viewing area - preferably, according to ECE-R43, the light transmittance in the main viewing field A is at least 70%. The first sheet and the second sheet can also be referred to as outer sheet and inner sheet.

[0032] The first pane, the second pane and / or the intermediate layer may have further suitable coatings known per se, for example antireflective coatings, nonstick coatings, scratch-resistant coatings, photocatalytic coatings or sun-shielding coatings or low-e coatings.

[0033] The thickness of the first and second sheets can vary greatly and can therefore be adapted to the requirements in each individual case. The first and second sheets advantageously have a standard thickness of 0.7 mm to 25 mm - preferably a standard thickness of 1.4 mm to 2.5 mm for vehicle glazing and preferably a standard thickness of 4 mm to 25 mm for furniture, equipment and buildings, in particular electric heaters. The dimensions of the sheets can vary greatly and depend on the size of the use according to the invention. The first and second sheets have a surface area of ​​200 cm2 to 20 m2, which is common, for example, in the field of vehicle assembly and construction.

[0034] The functional element has electrically controllable optical properties and comprises a first carrier film, a first planar electrode, an active layer, a second planar electrode and a second carrier film, which are arranged planarly one above the other. The carrier film and the planar electrode are preferably transparent. According to an embodiment of the vitrified cell according to the invention, the functional element is a so-called PDLC (polymer dispersed liquid crystal) functional element.

[0035] The active layer has variable optical properties which can be controlled by a voltage applied to the active layer. In the context of the present invention, electrically controllable optical properties are understood to mean those properties which can be controlled continuously, but also those properties which can be switched between two or more discrete states. The optical properties relate in particular to light transmission and / or scattering behavior.

[0036] The first and second carrier films are in particular polymer or thermoplastic films. The carrier film in particular contains a thermoplastic material or consists of a thermoplastic material. The thermoplastic material can be a thermoplastic polymer or a mixture of two or more thermoplastic polymers. In addition to the thermoplastic material, the carrier film can also contain additives, such as plasticizers. The thermoplastic material of the carrier film is preferably polyethylene terephthalate (PET), as is commonly used in commercially available functional elements.

[0037] The thermoplastic material of the carrier film may also comprise or consist of a mixture of PET and other thermoplastic polymers and / or PET copolymers. The thermoplastic material of the carrier film may also comprise or consist of PU, polypropylene, polycarbonate, polymethyl methacrylate, polyacrylate, polyvinyl chloride, polyacetic acid resin, fluorinated ethylene propylene, polyvinyl fluoride and / or ethylene tetrafluoroethylene. The thickness of each carrier film is preferably in the range of 0.03 mm to 0.4 mm, and more preferably in the range of 0.04 mm to 0.2 mm.

[0038] The planar electrode of the functional element comprises a conductive coating on a carrier film. The side of the carrier film with the conductive coating then faces the active layer.

[0039] In another preferred embodiment, the functional element is a PNLC or SPD functional element. In the case of an SPD functional element, the active layer contains suspended particles, wherein the absorption of light passing through the active layer can be changed by applying a voltage to the planar electrodes. A PNLC functional element (PNLC=Polymer Network Liquid Crystal) contains an active layer in which a liquid crystal is embedded in a polymer network, wherein the mode of operation is also similar to that of a PDLC functional element (Polymer Dispersed Liquid Crystal).

[0040] The planar electrodes are arranged to be electrically connected to an external voltage source. The contacting of the planar electrodes is preferably achieved by (ultrasonic) welding, crimping or adhesive bonding. For this purpose, a conductive material (in particular a paste) or a soldering contact is applied to at least one of the planar electrodes. The paste contains silver or a silver-containing alloy. The conductive material is connected to the planar electrodes as a so-called busbar (for example a conductive material strip or a conductive print). The planar electrodes can be electrically contacted via the corresponding busbars.

[0041] In an alternative embodiment of the busbar, a thin and narrow metal film strip or metal wire is used, which preferably contains copper and / or aluminum; in particular, a copper film strip with a thickness of about 50 μm is used. The width of the copper film strip is preferably 1 mm to 10 mm. When the functional element is further processed, the metal film strip or metal wire is placed on the planar electrode in the composite of the thermoplastic layer. In the subsequent high-pressure steaming process, a reliable electrical contact between the busbar and the coating is achieved by the action of heat and pressure. The electrical contact between the planar electrode and the busbar can alternatively be produced by welding, placement or gluing with a conductive adhesive.

[0042] The busbar is attached to the planar electrode via the carrier film, the planar electrode and the recessed active layer, so that the corresponding other planar electrode with the relevant carrier film protrudes. This can preferably be done along the edge area of ​​the corresponding side of the functional element. The busbar can then be attached to the protruding planar electrode, or the flat conductor connecting element can be directly contacted with the planar electrode. The other busbar is attached to the other planar electrode on the opposite side of the corresponding functional element in a corresponding manner.

[0043] In an advantageous embodiment, the functional element is a PDLC functional element - in particular a functional element which switches at least one region of the vitrified cell from a transparent state to an opaque state and vice versa. The active layer of the PDLC functional element comprises liquid crystals embedded in a polymer matrix. The thickness of the functional element is, for example, 0.09 mm to 1 mm.

[0044] The invention further relates to an electrical line connection having a cross-sectional transition region from a flat conductor connecting element of a connecting device according to the invention comprising conductor tracks to a cable, in particular a round cable, comprising at least one electrical conductor. In the cross-sectional transition region, an electrical connection is provided between the conductor tracks of the flat conductor connecting element and the conductor of the cable, as well as an encapsulation serving as a plastic component for the electrically insulating electrical connection. Preferably, an adhesive tape is applied to the flat conductor connecting element as a sealing means in the region of the encapsulation. In a simple manner, the electrical line connection according to the invention has a durable and effective protection against moisture.

[0045] In another embodiment of the electrical line connection according to the invention, the conductor tracks of the flat conductor connecting element can be electrically conductively connected to the conductors of the (round) cable by a soldered connection. Alternatively, the electrical connection can be produced by an electrically conductive adhesive via an adhesive connection. The electrically conductive adhesive contains at least one electrically conductive material-preferably a metallic material, such as silver, gold or aluminum. The electrically conductive adhesive can also contain non-metallic electrical materials, such as graphite or carbon. At least one electrically conductive material is introduced into a non-conductive adhesive matrix, such as an epoxy resin. At least one electrically conductive material is contained in the adhesive in such an amount that the desired current carrying capacity is achieved. Preferably, at least one electrically conductive material is contained in the adhesive with a mass fraction of at least 70%.

[0046] In another preferred embodiment of the electrical line connection according to the invention, the encapsulation has plastic as the insulating material. In this case, the encapsulation can consist of a suitably solid plastic, for example polyimide (PI) or PA66 in combination with glass fibers. The encapsulation can be produced, for example, by an injection molding method, wherein the encapsulation is designed as a rectangular or round housing.

[0047] The cable has a connecting element, in particular a socket or a plug, at its end facing away from the encapsulation. In addition to the conductive conductor (inner conductor, or also a wire, a wire or a core), the cable can also include an insulating, preferably polymeric cable sheath, wherein the insulating cable sheath is preferably removed in each case in the end region of the cable in order to achieve an electrically conductive connection between the conductor of the cable and the flat conductor connecting element or connecting elements. The conductive conductor of the cable can, for example, contain copper, aluminum and / or silver, or alloys or mixtures thereof. The cable has a preferably round or oval shape, for example 0.3 mm 2 Up to 6mm 2 cross section.

[0048] The invention also extends to a vehicle having a connection device according to the invention.

[0049] Furthermore, the invention also extends to the use of the connecting device according to the invention in a vehicle, in particular a motor vehicle, for land, water or air travel.

[0050] Various embodiments of the present invention can be implemented alone or in any combination. In particular, the features described above and to be explained below can be used not only in the specified combination, but also in other combinations or alone without departing from the scope of the present invention. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0051] The present invention will be described in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and exemplary embodiments. The accompanying drawings are schematic diagrams and are not drawn to scale. The accompanying drawings do not limit the present invention in any way.

[0052] in: Figure 1 A schematic plan view of an embodiment of a line connection according to the invention with a flat-conductor connecting element is shown, Figure 2 shows a cross-sectional view of a line connection portion according to the present invention, Figure 3 shows a plan view of a first embodiment of an end portion of a flat-conductor connecting element according to the invention, Figure 4A and 4BA second embodiment of an end portion of a flat-conductor connecting element according to the invention is shown. Figure 5 shows a schematic plan view of a flat-conductor connecting element according to the invention with a groove, Figure 6 shows a cross-sectional view of a connection device according to the invention, Fig. 7A and 7B A first embodiment of a connection device according to the invention is shown, and Fig. 8A and 8B A second embodiment of a connecting device according to the invention is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0053] Specifications with numerical values ​​are generally not to be understood as exact values, but rather also include tolerances of + / -1% up to + / -10%.

[0054] Figure 1 1 shows a schematic plan view of an embodiment of a line connection according to the invention having a flat-conductor connecting element 1. The flat-conductor connecting element 1 comprises a conductor track 1.1, a covering film 1.2 and a sealing device 4 ( Figure 2 ). The flat-conductor connecting element 1 has at its two ends 1.4 and 1.7 opposite in the direction of extension a first connection region 1.5 and a second connection region 1.8 in each case. The longest dimension (length) of the flat-conductor connecting element 1 defines its direction of extension. The connection regions 1.5 and 1.8 of the flat-conductor connecting element 1 serve for electrically contacting the conductor track 1.1. The covering film 1.2 is at least partially removed at the contact point so that the conductor track 1.1 is accessible.

[0055] At the first end 1.4, the flat-conductor connecting element 1 has a first connection area 1.5. At the second end 1.7, the flat-conductor connecting element 1 has a second connection area 1.8, which is used for external connection of the conductor track 1.1 - here, for example, for welding the conductor track 1.1 to the cable 2 designed as a round cable. The second connection area 1.8 is located in a plastic component, which is formed as an encapsulation 12 and into which one end of the cable 2 is inserted. The encapsulation 12 surrounds a cross-sectional transition area 11, which serves as a transition from the flat-conductor connecting element 1 according to the invention to the cable 2 including the electrical conductor 2.1. A plug or socket 17, which can be connected to external electronic equipment (for example, control electronics), is attached to the other end of the cable 2.

[0056] The encapsulation 12 can be manufactured, for example, by injection molding or 3D printing methods. The encapsulation 12 is, for example, made of solid plastic (for example polyamide (PA) and / or polyimide (PI), PBT, PA611, PA12, PA6 or PA66) combined with glass fibers (up to 50%). The encapsulation 12 also serves to mechanically protect the electrical contact between the flat-conductor connecting element 1 and the cable 2.

[0057] The conductor track 1.1 has a rectangular cross section. The conductor track 1.1 is wrapped by an insulating sheath consisting of a covering film 1.2. For this purpose, the covering film 1.2 is bonded to the conductor track 1.1. The flat conductor connecting element 1 can include a plurality of conductor tracks 1.1. The conductor tracks 1.1 are then arranged adjacent to each other and / or one on top of the other. The electrical conductor tracks 1.1 consist, for example, of thin copper, silver, tin or gold films. These films can be additionally coated, for example silver-plated, gold-plated or tin-plated. The thickness of these films is, for example, 35 μm, 50 μm, 75 μm or 100 μm. The width of the conductor track can also be 1 mm up to 22 mm.

[0058] For the material of the cover film 1.2, a film made of polyimide is particularly suitable, and preferably a black or yellow polyimide film (e.g., PI-MTB / MBC), for example with a thickness of 25 μm. Alternatively, a polymer film made of PEN, and preferably a polymer film made of white PEN, for example with a thickness of 25 μm, can also be used.

[0059] The cover film 1.2 is glued to the conductor track 1.1 by means of an adhesive layer and to the cover film 1.2 on the opposite side at the protruding edge. The adhesive layer of the cover film 1.2 can contain or consist of, for example, an epoxy adhesive or a thermoplastic adhesive. The typical thickness of the adhesive film is 25 μm to 35 μm. The adhesive can be transparent or colored, for example black. Only the first connection area 1.5 and the second connection area 1.8 are formed without a cover film. This can be achieved, for example, by window technology during the production process or by subsequent removal of the cover film 1.2, for example by laser ablation.

[0060] Figure 2 An embodiment of an electrical line connection 10 according to the invention is shown in cross section, which has a cross-sectional transition region 11. The flat conductor connecting element 1 comprises a conductor track 1.1, a first cover film 1.2 and a sealing device 4. The sealing device 4 is arranged at the second end 1.7 on the cover film 1.2 within the encapsulation 12.

[0061] The cross-sectional transition region 11 comprises an electrical connection between the conductor track 1.1 of the flat-conductor connecting element 1 and the conductor 2.1 of the (round) cable 2. The cross-sectional transition region 11 has an encapsulation 12. The encapsulation 12 serves to insulate the electrical contact (e.g. welding) between the flat-conductor connecting element 1 and the cable 2.

[0062] In addition to the electrically conductive conductor 2.1, the cable 2 comprises an insulating polymer cable sheath 2.2, wherein the insulating cable sheath 2.2 is removed in the end region of the cable in order to achieve an electrically conductive connection between the conductor 2.1 of the (round) cable 2 and the conductor track 1.1. The electrically conductive conductor 2.1 of the (round) cable 2 contains copper. The cable 2 has a circular or oval cross section, the cross section of which is, for example, 5 mm 2 .

[0063] The cable 2 can in principle be any connection cable known to the person skilled in the art for electrically contacting functional elements and is suitable for connection to a connection element (also referred to as a crimp contact) by crimping or clamping. The conductor 2.1 of the round cable 2 is stripped at its end pointing toward the flat-conductor connection element 1 and fixedly connected to the conductor rail 1.1 by means of a solder connection 5.

[0064] Figure 3 A plan view of a first embodiment of a second end 1.7 of a flat conductor connecting element 1 according to the invention is shown. The second end 1.7 has a sealing device 4, which is formed as an adhesive tape 4.1. The adhesive tape 4.1 at least partially forms an edge region B, which is located between the side edges R of the adhesive tape 4.1, which are at a perpendicular distance from the outer edge 1.3 of the flat conductor connecting element 1. The edge region B of the adhesive tape 4.1 is formed along the peripheral edge of the cover film 1.2, wherein the width of the edge region B is constant. The adhesive tape 4.1 protrudes beyond the outer edge 1.3 of the flat conductor connecting element 1. For this purpose, the adhesive tape 4.1 has a width that is greater than the width of the flat conductor connecting element 1. The second longest dimension of the flat conductor connecting element 1 defines its width.

[0065] In particular, the adhesive tape 4.1 extends beyond the outer edge 1.3 of the cover film 1.2 of the flat-conductor connecting element 1, which is covered by the encapsulation 12. The adhesive tape 4.1 thus acts as a capillary barrier. The adhesive tape 4.1 can be arranged on two opposite sides of the flat-conductor connecting element 1.

[0066] Figure 4A A second embodiment of a second end portion 1.7 of a flat-conductor connecting element 1 according to the invention is shown. Figure 3 In contrast, the adhesive strip 4.1 does not protrude beyond the outer edge 1.3, but is substantially flush with it. Figure 3 In contrast, the cover film 1.2 has two grooves 4.2. Each of the grooves 4.2 is covered by an adhesive tape 4.1.

[0067] The grooves 4.2 are located in the region of the outer edge 1.3 and in particular in the cover film 1.2. They are designed to be rectangular. Alternatively, the grooves can be arc-shaped. The grooves 4.2 extend from the outer edge 1.3 in the direction of the conductor track. The two grooves 4.2 are at least partially filled with the adhesive layer of the adhesive tape 4.1, thereby effectively preventing water from entering along the outer edge 1.3 by capillary action. Therefore, the grooves 4.2 act as another capillary barrier.

[0068] Figure 4B A second embodiment of the second end 1.7 is shown without the adhesive strip 4.1. The second end 1.7 of the flat-conductor connecting element 1 is shown without the adhesive strip 4.1, so that the groove 4.2 can be clearly seen. The groove 4.2 is open to the outer edge. The groove is arranged on the insulating edge area of ​​the flat-conductor connecting element 1. The groove 4.2 extends from the outer edge 1.3 in the conductor track direction. At the second end 1.7, the flat-conductor connecting element 1 has a second connection area 1.8.

[0069] Figure 5 A schematic plan view of a flat conductor connection element 1 with grooves 4.2 according to the invention is shown. The grooves 4.2 have different shapes. The grooves 4.2 have a rectangular, arc-shaped or triangular shape. The grooves 4.2 are located in the region of the outer edge 1.3 of the cover film 1.2. They are located in the edge region of the cover film 1.2, where the cover film 1.2 is glued to the cover film 1.2 on the opposite side at the protruding edge. The grooves 4.2 are open to the outer edge. Each groove 4.2 serves as a sealing device 4. The flat conductor connection element 1 can be used together with a sheet 102 with an electrical component 6.

[0070] Figure 6 A cross-sectional view of a connection device 104 according to the invention is shown. The connection device 104 comprises a glazed unit 100 with an electrical component 6 , in particular a so-called PDLC functional element, and a flat-conductor connection element 1 according to the invention.

[0071] The glazing unit 100 is formed as a composite sheet. In this case, the composite sheet is designed as a roof sheet of a motor vehicle. The glazing unit 100 comprises a first sheet 101 and a second sheet 102. In the installed position, the first sheet 101 serves as an outer sheet, while the second sheet 102 serves as an inner sheet. In this case, the inner sheet is the sheet facing the interior of the vehicle, while the outer sheet points to the vehicle surroundings. The surface of the outer sheet facing the vehicle surroundings is called surface I, which is common in vehicle glazing technology, while the surface of the inner sheet facing the interior of the vehicle is called surface IV. The two sheets 101 and 102 are composed of soda lime glass, for example. The two sheets 101 and 102 are fixedly connected to each other by two thermoplastic intermediate layers 103, for example, thermoplastic intermediate layers made of polyvinyl butyral (PVB), ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) or polyurethane (PU).

[0072] The glazing unit 100 is provided with an electrical functional element 6 located between two sheets 101 and 102. The electrical functional element 6 can be, for example, a PDLC functional element, which is used, for example, as an electrically controllable sunshade or vision protection. The PDLC functional element is formed by a commercially available PDLC multilayer film embedded in an intermediate layer 103. For this purpose, the intermediate layer 103 includes, for example, a total of three layers of thermoplastic films (not shown) with a thickness of 0.38 mm, such as PVB, wherein the first thermoplastic film is connected to the first sheet 101 and the second thermoplastic film is connected to the second sheet 102. The PDLC functional element generally includes an active layer between two planar electrodes and two carrier films. The active layer contains a polymer matrix having liquid crystals dispersed therein, and the liquid crystals are aligned according to the voltage applied to the planar electrodes, so that the optical properties can be controlled. The planar electrodes can be electrically connected via busbars. The flat conductor connecting element 1 is used to apply a voltage to the busbars of the functional element 6.

[0073] The connecting device 104 further comprises a flat-conductor connecting element 1 . The busbars of the functional element 6 are electrically conductively connected to the flat-conductor connecting element 1 . A reliable electrically conductive connection is preferably achieved by means of a soldered connection 5 .

[0074] It is understood that the flat-conductor connecting element 1 can be adapted to the respective conditions of actual use and can extend, for example, to two, three or four planes. Alternatively or in combination, more or fewer conductor tracks can be arranged adjacent to each other for each plane.

[0075] The flat-conductor connecting element 1 is partially laminated with its first end 1.4 into the glazing unit 100 and guided out of the composite pane 2 in the exit region 18 between the two panes 101 and 102. The first end 1.4 has a sealing device 4, which is formed as an adhesive strip 4.1. The flat-conductor connecting element 1 is guided around the side surface of the first pane 101 and arranged on the surface IV of the first pane 101. For this purpose, the first pane 101 can have a groove in the exit region 18, for example a groove through a grounding area (not shown here).

[0076] Fig. 7A and 7B An embodiment of a connecting device 104 according to the invention is shown in which the adhesive strip 4.1 projects beyond the outer edge 1.3 of the flat-conductor connecting element 1. The adhesive strip 4.1 is wider than the flat-conductor connecting element 1. The flat-conductor connecting element 1 is partially laminated with its first end 1.4 into the vitrification unit 100 and guided out of the vitrification unit 100 in the outlet region 18. Fig. 7A A plan view of the connection device 104 is shown. Figure 7B Shows Fig. 7A The adhesive strip 4 . 1 can be arranged only on one side of the flat-conductor connecting element 1 or on two opposite sides of the flat-conductor connecting element 1 , such as Figure 7B shown.

[0077] Fig. 8A and 8B A further embodiment of a connecting device 104 according to the invention is shown, in which the flat-conductor connecting element 1 has two recesses 4.2. The adhesive strip 4.1 is narrower than the flat-conductor connecting element 1. The flat-conductor connecting element 1 is partially laminated with its first end 1.4 into the vitrification unit 100 and guided out of the vitrification unit 100 in the exit region 18. Figure 8B Shows Fig. 8A The adhesive strip 4 . 1 can be arranged only on one side of the flat-conductor connecting element 1 or on two opposite sides of the flat-conductor connecting element 1 , such as Figure 8B shown.

[0078] The grooves 4.2 have a rectangular shape. The grooves 4.2 are located in the region of two opposite edges of the outer edge 1.3 of the cover film 1.2. They are located in the edge region of the cover film 1.2, wherein the cover film 1.2 is glued to the cover film 1.2 on the opposite side at the protruding edge. Each of the two grooves 4.2 reduces the width of the flat conductor connecting element 1. The grooves 4.2 are open to the outer edge 1.3. The grooves 4.2 are at least partially covered by the adhesive tape 4.1. They are at least partially filled with the adhesive layer of the adhesive tape 4.1, the adhesive tape 4.1 and / or the intermediate layer 3, thereby preventing water from entering the vitrification unit 100 along the outer edge 1.3 of the flat conductor connecting element 1 by capillary action. Reference numerals list 1 Flat conductor connection element 1.1 Conductor track 1.2 Covering film 1.3 Outer edge 1.4 First end 1.5 First connection area 1.6 1.7 Second end 1.8 Second connection area 1.9 2 Cables 2.1 Cable Conductor 2.2 Cable sheath 4 Sealing devices 4.1 Adhesive tape 4.2 Grooves 5. Welding connection 6 Functional elements 10 Line connection 11 Cross-sectional transition area 12 Packaging Department 17 Socket or plug 18 Exit Area 100 Vitrification Unit 101 first sheet (base) 102 Second sheet 103 Middle Layer 105 Connecting device I First surface (outer side) of first sheet 101 IV The second surface (inner side) of the second sheet 102 R Side edge of adhesive tape 4.1 B Edge area of ​​adhesive tape 4.1.

Claims

1. A connecting device (104) comprising a glazed unit (100) with an electrical component (6) and a flat-conductor connecting element (1), the flat-conductor connecting element comprising at least one electrical conductor track (1.1) and a covering film (1.2) for electrically insulating the conductor track (1.1), ●Among them, The flat-conductor connecting element (1) has a first connecting region (1.5) at a first end (1.4), a second connecting region (1.8) at a second end (1.7), wherein the first connection region (1.5) is arranged between two sheets (101, 102) of the glazing unit (100), and wherein the flat-conductor connecting element (1) is guided out of the glazing unit (100) via a second connection region (1.7) between the two sheets (101, 102), ● wherein the electrical conductor track (1.1) of the flat-conductor connecting element (1) is provided for electrical contacting of the electrical component, ● wherein a sealing device (4, 4.1) is arranged at the first end (1.4) and / or the second end (1.7) of the flat-conductor connecting element (1), and The flat-conductor connecting element (1) has at least one recess (4.2) in the region of the outer edge (1.3), and the recess (4.2) is filled with an adhesive layer, an adhesive tape (4.1) or a thermoplastic layer.

2. The connection device (104) according to claim 1, wherein: The sealing means (4) of the flat-conductor connecting element (1) is provided for blocking water capillaries.

3. The connection device (104) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The sealing device (4) is an adhesive tape (4.1).

4. The connection device (104) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein: The sealing device (4) is formed as a double-sided adhesive tape (4.1).

5. The connection device (104) according to any one of claims 3 to 4, wherein: The adhesive strips (4.1) are arranged on two opposite sides of the flat-conductor connecting element (1).

6. The connection device (104) according to any one of claims 3 to 5, wherein: The adhesive tape (4.1) is connected to the cover film (1.2) in a planar manner via an adhesive layer.

7. The connection device (104) according to any one of claims 3 to 6, wherein: The adhesive strip (4.1) protrudes beyond the outer edge (1.3) of the flat-conductor connecting element (1).

8. The connection device (104) according to any one of claims 3 to 7, wherein: The adhesive strip (4.1) at least partially has an edge region (B) which is located between side edges (R) of the adhesive strip (4.1) which are at a perpendicular distance from the outer edge (1.3).

9. The connection device (104) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein: The flat-conductor connecting element (1) has at least one recess (4.2) in the region of an outer edge (1.3), in particular in a covering film (1.2), wherein the recess (4.2) is open toward the outer edge.

10. The connection device (104) according to claim 9, wherein: The groove (4.2) tapers from the outer edge (1.3) in the direction of the conductor track (1.1).

11. The connection device (104) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein: The flat-conductor connecting element (1) has at least one recess (4.2) in the region of an outer edge (1.3), the recess being arc-shaped or rectangular.

12. The connection device (104) according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein: The groove (4.2) is filled with an adhesive layer and an adhesive tape (4.1).

13. The connection device (104) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein: The electrical component (6) is a functional element (6).

14. The connection device (104) according to claim 13, wherein: The functional element (6) is a PDLC functional element.

15. An electrical line connection (10) having a cross-sectional transition region (11) from a flat conductor connecting element (1) comprising a conductor track (1.1) of a connecting device (104) according to any one of claims 1 to 14 to a cable (2), in particular a round cable, comprising at least one electrical conductor (2.1), wherein the electrical connection between the conductor track (1.1) of the flat conductor connecting element (1) and the conductor (2.1) of the cable (2) is arranged in the cross-sectional transition region (11), and wherein the cross-sectional transition region (11) has an encapsulation (12) as a plastic component for electrical insulation.

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