Dimming film and laminated glass

Abstract

The invention discloses a dimming film and laminated glass. The dimming film (10) comprises a laminate (25) and at least one sealing member (30). The laminate comprises: an active layer (253); a first base material (251) and a second base material (255) provided so as to sandwich the active layer therebetween; and a first conductive layer (252) provided on a surface of the first substrate facing the active layer and a second conductive layer (254) provided on a surface of the second substrate facing the active layer, the sealing member being mounted so as to surround a side edge of the laminate in a cross-sectional view of the laminate, the sealing material is provided with at least one adhesive region (R1) and at least one non-adhesive region (R2) on a surface facing the laminate, and the at least one adhesive region is disposed facing the active layer. According to the invention, low-molecular components in an intermediate film can be prevented from entering a liquid crystal layer of a PDLC film through an adhesive, so that the edge of the PDLC film is prevented from becoming transparent.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to a dimming film and laminated glass. Background Art

[0002] Laminated glass is sometimes used in automobile window glass. This type of laminated glass sometimes has various functions, such as by enclosing a functional film. As an example of a functional film, a film-shaped dimming element (dimming film) that changes visible light transmittance and the like when a voltage is applied can be cited. The dimming film, for example, has a structure in which a dimming layer is sandwiched between two substrates. The dimming layer can be, for example, any one or more selected from a suspended particle device (SPD), a polymer dispersed liquid crystal (PDLC), a polymer network liquid crystal (PNLC), a guest-host liquid crystal, and an electrochromic material (electrochromic).

[0003] Regarding the dimming film whose dimming layer is a polymer dispersed liquid crystal (PDLC), it was found that the edges of the PDLC film became transparent during heat resistance testing. This makes it impossible to meet the necessary standards required for cars or trains and limits the design of the glass. In addition, not only during heat resistance testing, but also in actual use, it was found that the edges of the PDLC film gradually deteriorated (became transparent). In addition, this degradation occurs regardless of the PDLC.

[0004] The reason why the edge of the PDLC film becomes transparent is that, for example, when the cross section of the PDLC and the intermediate film contacts each other, the liquid crystal components and the low molecular weight components in the intermediate film migrate to each other, causing the migrated portion to become transparent.

[0005] Therefore, to prevent the edges of the PDLC film from becoming transparent, a structure must be adopted to prevent the migration of liquid crystal components from the PDLC cross section and to prevent other components from entering from the outside. Furthermore, when a tape-shaped sealant with adhesive applied to one side is used to seal the edges of the PDLC film, low-molecular components can enter through the adhesive layer.

[0006] As a countermeasure, a structure is known: it has at least one active layer stacked between first and second planar electrode layers, at least a portion of the edge area of the dimming film is sealed by a sealant, the sealant comprises a polymer film material strip, which has a first strip-shaped adhesive material area adjacent to the first edge of the polymer film material strip and a second strip-shaped adhesive material area adjacent to the second edge of the polymer film material strip on one surface, and there is an adhesive-free area between the first strip-shaped adhesive material area and the second strip-shaped adhesive material area, and the adhesive-free area is arranged to overlap with the active layer of the dimming film.

[0007] By providing this sealant, the active layer (liquid crystal layer) is shielded from contact with the adhesive, preventing the ingress of components from the adhesive interlayer. However, in addition to cosmetic issues, this structure also increases the risk of interlayer blistering. Furthermore, when no adhesive is used at all, while the ingress of components from the adhesive interlayer is prevented, the sealant may shift, and a gap may easily form between the sealant and the laminate, leading to blistering.

[0008] Prior art literature

[0009] Patent Literature

[0010] Patent Document 1: CN102067032B Summary of the Invention

[0011] The present invention is made to solve the above-mentioned technical problems, and its purpose is to provide a dimming film and laminated glass, which can suppress the transparency of the edge of the dimming film and avoid bubbling between layers.

[0012] In order to achieve the above-mentioned purpose, one embodiment of the present invention provides a dimming film 10, including a stack 25 and at least one sealant 30, the stack including: an active layer 253; a first substrate 251 and a second substrate 255 arranged in a manner to sandwich the active layer therebetween; and a first conductive layer 252 arranged on the surface of the first substrate facing the active layer and a second conductive layer 254 arranged on the surface of the second substrate facing the active layer, the sealant being installed to surround the side end edge of the stackant in a cross-sectional view, the sealant being provided with at least one adhesive area R1 and at least one non-adhesive area R2 on the surface opposite to the stackant, and at least one of the adhesive areas being arranged opposite to the active layer.

[0013] According to this embodiment, it is possible to prevent low-molecular components in the interlayer from entering the liquid crystal layer of the PDLC film via the adhesive and causing the edge of the PDLC film to become transparent. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0014] Figure 1 Schematic diagrams showing the structure of a laminated glass with a light-adjusting film attached thereto, (a) is a top view, and (b) is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA of (a).

[0015] Figure 2 It is a cross-sectional view showing the structure of a laminated body of a light-adjusting film.

[0016] Figure 3 This is a partial cross-sectional view showing the light-adjusting film according to the first embodiment.

[0017] Figure 4 This is a cross-sectional view showing a light-adjusting film according to Modification 1 of the first embodiment.

[0018] Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional view showing a light-adjusting film according to a second modification of the first embodiment.

[0019] Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional view showing a light-adjusting film according to a third modification of the first embodiment.

[0020] Figure 7 This is a cross-sectional view showing a light-adjusting film according to a fourth modification of the first embodiment.

[0021] Figure 8 It is a cross-sectional view showing a light-adjusting film according to a fifth modification of the first embodiment.

[0022] Figure 9 This is a cross-sectional view showing a light-adjusting film according to a sixth modification of the first embodiment.

[0023] Figure 10 It is a cross-sectional view showing a light-adjusting film according to a seventh modification of the first embodiment.

[0024] Figure 11 It is a cross-sectional view showing a light-adjusting film according to a second embodiment.

[0025] Figure 12 It is a cross-sectional view showing a light-adjusting film according to a third embodiment.

[0026] Figure 13 Schematic diagrams showing the structure of a light-adjusting film according to a fourth embodiment, (a) is a plan view, and (b) is a cross-sectional view taken along line BB of (a).

[0027] Figure 14 It is a cross-sectional view showing the structure of a light-adjusting film according to a fourth embodiment.

[0028] Figure 15 It is a cross-sectional view showing the structure of a light-adjusting film according to a first modification of the fourth embodiment.

[0029] Figure 16 It is a cross-sectional view showing the structure of a light-adjusting film according to a second modification of the fourth embodiment.

[0030] Figure 17 Schematic diagram showing the bonding of a sealing member to a laminate.

[0031] Figure 18 This is a graph showing the evaluation results of the degradation width.

[0032] (Explanation of Symbols)

[0033] 10 dimming film

[0034] 20 laminated glass

[0035] 21 First Glass Plate

[0036] 22 Second glass plate

[0037] 23 Intermediate film

[0038] 24 shielding layers

[0039] 25-layer stack

[0040] 30 Sealing component

[0041] 40 non-adhesive components

[0042] 50 electrodes

[0043] 251 first substrate

[0044] 252 first conductive layer

[0045] 253 active layer

[0046] 254 second conductive layer

[0047] 255 second substrate

[0048] 301 first sealing member

[0049] 302 second sealing member

[0050] R1 adhesive area

[0051] R2 non-adhesive area DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0052] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In each figure, identical components are marked with the same reference numerals, and duplicate descriptions are sometimes omitted. In addition, in each figure, in order to facilitate understanding of the present invention, sizes and shapes may sometimes be partially exaggerated.

[0053] Here, the description uses a vehicle sunroof glass as an example, but the invention is not limited thereto. The glass described in the embodiments is applicable not only to vehicle sunroof glass but also to windshields, rear windows, side windows, and the like. While automobiles are typical examples of vehicles, the term "vehicle" also refers to any other mobile object with glass, including trains, ships, and airplanes.

[0054] In the following description, "plan view" refers to viewing the specified area of the skylight glass from the direction normal to the specified area, and "plan view shape" refers to the shape of the specified area of the skylight glass from the direction normal to the specified area. "Inner side" of the laminated glass in plan view refers to the center direction of the laminated glass.

[0055] <First embodiment>

[0056] Figure 1Schematic diagrams showing the structure of a laminated glass with a light-adjusting film attached thereto, (a) is a top view, and (b) is a cross-sectional view taken along line AA of (a). Figure 2 It is a cross-sectional view showing the structure of a laminated body of a light-adjusting film. Figure 3 1 is a partial cross-sectional view showing the light-adjusting film according to the first embodiment. Here, in a plan view, the longitudinal direction of the laminated glass 20 is defined as the X direction, the transverse direction thereof is defined as the Y direction, and the thickness direction is defined as the Z direction.

[0057] like Figure 1 As shown, the laminated glass 20 includes a first glass plate 21 as the outer glass plate, a second glass plate 22 as the inner glass plate, an intermediate film 23, a shielding layer 24, and a dimming film 10. The intermediate film 23 can be a single layer or two or more layers.

[0058] The first glass sheet 21 is a vehicle-exterior glass sheet that faces the vehicle exterior when the laminated glass 20 is installed in a vehicle. The second glass sheet 22 is a vehicle-interior glass sheet that faces the vehicle interior when the laminated glass 20 is installed in a vehicle. The first glass sheet 21 and the second glass sheet 22 may have, for example, a predetermined curvature.

[0059] The first and second glass plates 21 and 22 are a pair of opposing glass plates, with the interlayer film 23 and the light-adjusting film 10 positioned between them. The first and second glass plates 21 and 22 are fixed together, sandwiching the interlayer film 23 and the light-adjusting film 10. Details of the first and second glass plates 21, 22, and interlayer film 23 will be described later.

[0060] The shielding layer 24 is an opaque (eg, black) colored ceramic layer, and may be provided in a strip shape along the peripheral edge of the laminated glass 20 . Figure 1 In the example shown, the shielding layer 24 is provided on both the vehicle interior side surface of the first glass plate 21 and the vehicle interior side surface of the second glass plate 22. However, the shielding layer 24 may be provided on only one of the vehicle interior side surface of the first glass plate 21 and the vehicle interior side surface of the second glass plate 22 as needed.

[0061] Providing an opaque shielding layer 24 around the periphery of the laminated glass 20 can suppress ultraviolet degradation of the resin, such as polyurethane, that secures the periphery of the laminated glass 20 to the vehicle body. Furthermore, the electrodes and electrode extraction wiring electrically connected to the light-switching film 10 can be concealed, making them less visible from the outside and / or inside of the vehicle.

[0062] The shielding layer 24 can be formed, for example, by applying a ceramic paste containing a molten glass frit containing a black pigment to a glass plate by screen printing and then firing the paste, but the present invention is not limited thereto. The shielding layer 24 can also be formed, for example, by applying an organic ink containing a black or dark pigment to a glass plate by screen printing and then drying the ink.

[0063] The dimming film 10 is an element that can change the light transmittance of the laminated glass 20. The dimming film 10 can be applied to almost the entire laminated glass 20 or only to a portion of it, as needed. The dimming film 10 has a plan view shape, for example, that is smaller than the plan view shape of the laminated glass 20. Figure 1 In the example shown in FIG, the outer edge of the light-adjusting film 10 is located at a position overlapping with the shielding layer 24 in a plan view.

[0064] Figure 2 : is a cross-sectional view showing the structure of a stacked body of a light-adjusting film. Figure 2 As shown, the dimming film laminate 25 includes a first substrate 251, a first conductive layer 252, a dimming layer 253 as an active layer, a second conductive layer 254, and a second substrate 255. The laminate 25 is enclosed in an intermediate film 23, that is, is covered by the intermediate film 23. The thickness of the laminate 25 is, for example, not less than 0.1 mm and not more than 0.8 mm, and preferably not less than 0.1 mm and not more than 0.5 mm.

[0065] The first substrate 251 and the second substrate 255 are transparent resin layers and have a thickness of, for example, 5 μm to 500 μm, preferably 10 μm to 200 μm, and more preferably 50 μm to 150 μm.

[0066] The first substrate 251 and the second substrate 255 can be formed of any one selected from polyethylene terephthalate, polyethylene naphthalate, polyamide, polyether, polysulfone, polyethersulfone, polycarbonate, polyarylate, polyetherimide, polyetheretherketone, polyimide, aromatic polyamide, polybutylene terephthalate, triacetyl cellulose, polyurethane, and cycloolefin polymer.

[0067] The first conductive layer 252 is formed on the surface of the first substrate 251 on the second glass plate 22 side and is in contact with the surface of the light-adjusting layer 253 on the first glass plate 21 side. The second conductive layer 254 is formed on the surface of the second substrate 255 on the first glass plate 21 side and is in contact with the surface of the light-adjusting layer 253 on the second glass plate 22 side. In other words, the first conductive layer 252 and the second conductive layer 254 form a pair of conductive films that sandwich the light-adjusting layer 253.

[0068] Transparent conductive oxide (TCO) can be used as the first conductive layer 252 and the second conductive layer 254. Examples of TCO include, but are not limited to, tin-doped indium oxide (ITO), aluminum-doped zinc oxide (AZO), and indium-doped cadmium oxide.

[0069] Transparent conductive polymers such as poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT) or poly(4,4-dioctylcyclopentadithiophene) can also be used as the first conductive layers 252 and 254. Alternatively, laminated films of metal and dielectric layers, silver nanowires, or silver or copper metal meshes can be used as the first conductive layers 252 and 254.

[0070] The first conductive layers 252 and 254 can be formed by physical vapor deposition (PVD) such as sputtering, vacuum deposition, or ion plating, or by chemical vapor deposition (CVD) or wet coating.

[0071] The dimming layer 253 is sandwiched between a first substrate 251 having a first conductive layer 252 formed thereon and a second substrate 255 having a second conductive layer 254 formed thereon. A polymer dispersed liquid crystal (PDLC), a type of liquid crystal layer, is used as the dimming layer 253. The PDLC comprises a liquid crystal material and a polymer material forming a network structure capable of controlling the movement of the liquid crystal material. For example, the PDLC can be obtained using existing materials and methods disclosed in U.S. Patents Nos. 4,834,509A, 4,688,900A, and 5,304,323A.

[0072] The working principle of the dimming layer 253 is as follows: when no electric field is applied, the liquid crystal droplets can be randomly distributed in the polymer material with their directors freely oriented. In this case, the refractive index of the liquid crystal for ordinary light is inconsistent with the refractive index of the polymer material for ordinary light, resulting in a relatively strong scattering effect on light. As a result, the appearance of the PDLC film is translucent or opaque "milky white". Under an electric field, due to the positive dielectric anisotropy of the liquid crystal droplets, their directors can be aligned along the direction of the external electric field. When the refractive index of the liquid crystal for ordinary light is consistent with the refractive index of the polymer material for ordinary light, light can pass through the PDLC film, so the PDLC film has a transparent appearance. Specifically, the higher the voltage applied to the PDLC film, the more transparent the PDLC film. There is no particular limit on the thickness of the PDLC film. From the perspective of controllability and ease of use, it is preferably not less than 0.1 mm and not more than 0.8 mm.

[0073] The dimming film 10 also includes a pair of dimming bus bars (not shown). The pair of dimming bus bars are, for example, arranged at a position overlapping with the shielding layer 24 when viewed from above. One of the pair of dimming bus bars is electrically connected to the first conductive layer 252, and the other is electrically connected to the second conductive layer 254. The first conductive layer 252 and the second conductive layer 254 are energized to drive the dimming layer 253. The polarity of one of the pair of dimming bus bars is, for example, positive, and is connected to the positive side of a power source such as a battery mounted on a vehicle via a wire. The polarity of the other of the pair of dimming bus bars is, for example, negative, and is connected to the negative side of a power source such as a battery mounted on a vehicle via a wire. When a voltage is supplied to the dimming layer 253 from a power source such as a battery through a pair of dimming bus bars, the transmittance of the dimming layer 253 is switched according to the voltage. Silver paste is suitable as a dimming bus bar. The silver paste can be applied, for example, by printing methods such as screen printing or manual operation. As the dimming busbar, a copper tape, a plain braided copper wire, or a copper tape with a conductive adhesive may be used.

[0074] The dimming film 10 can be divided into multiple regions with different transmittances by providing insulating regions in at least one of the first conductive layer 252 and the second conductive layer 254. The dimming film 10 can also have three or more dimming busbars.

[0075] The light-adjusting film 10 further includes a seal 30. The seal 30 is formed by attaching an adhesive layer to the strip substrate. Furthermore, the seal 30 is configured such that, after the adhesive layer is attached, the inner surface 31 of the seal 30 facing the laminate 25 is flush with the surface.

[0076] The seal 30 can be provided at any position around the stacked body 25 as required. Figure 3 2 shows only the case where the seal 30 is provided on one side in the X direction of the stacked body 25. On the inner surface 31 of the seal 30 facing the stacked body 25, at least one adhesive region R1 and at least one non-adhesive region R2 are provided.

[0077] An adhesive is provided in the adhesive region R1 , and no adhesive is provided in the non-adhesive region R2 .

[0078] like Figure 3 As shown, in this first embodiment, an adhesive region R1 is provided in the central portion of the inner surface 31 of the seal 30 facing the stack 25, and the end portions of the inner surface 31 serve as non-adhesive regions R2. Furthermore, the adhesive region R1 is provided so as to cover the entire side surface of the stack 25 and portions of the upper and lower surfaces of the stack 25 when attached to the stack 25.

[0079] By defining the non-adhesive regions R2 at both ends of the inner surface 31, low-molecular components in the interlayer film can be prevented from entering the liquid crystal layer of the PDLC film via the adhesive, which could cause the edges of the PDLC film to become transparent. Furthermore, the provision of the non-adhesive regions R2 allows air to escape from the non-adhesive regions R2 during the manufacture of laminated glass including a dimming film, thereby suppressing the formation of bubbles between the layers.

[0080] When installing the seal 30, align the adhesive region R1 with the middle position of the side surface of the stack 25 and bond it. Then fold the seal 30 along the edge of the stack 25. In the corner area of the stack 25 observed from above, the seal 30 bonded along the short side direction of the stack 25 can overlap with the seal 30 bonded along the long side direction of the stack 25. The seal 30 may or may not protrude from the corner area, as long as the seals 30 in the orthogonal direction overlap with each other. In addition, the overlapping portion is not limited to the corner area, and can overlap a portion of the long side direction of the stack 25 or a portion of the short side direction of the stack 25.

[0081] In this way, the seal 30 can be prevented from being displaced and a strong seal can be provided. In addition, since both end portions of the inner surface 31 are the non-adhesive regions R2, the risk of foaming at the overlapping portion can be reduced.

[0082] <Modification 1 of the First Embodiment>

[0083] Figure 4 This is a cross-sectional view showing a light-adjusting film according to Modification 1 of the first embodiment.

[0084] In this modification 1, the adhesive region R1 is provided so as to cover only the entire side surface of the stacked body 25 when attached to the stacked body 25. That is, it does not extend to the upper and lower surfaces of the stacked body 25 when attached to the stacked body 25.

[0085] This first modification achieves the same effects as the first embodiment. Furthermore, the non-adhesive region can be extended as much as possible. This further prevents low-molecular components in the interlayer from entering the liquid crystal layer of the PDLC film via the adhesive, potentially causing the edges of the PDLC film to become transparent. Furthermore, foaming can be suppressed.

[0086] <Modification 2 of the First Embodiment>

[0087] Figure 5 This is a cross-sectional view showing a light-adjusting film according to a second modification of the first embodiment.

[0088] In this second modification, multiple adhesive regions R1 are provided at intervals across the entire inner surface of the seal 30. At least one adhesive region R1 is provided at a position facing the middle of the side surface of the laminate 25. Furthermore, one adhesive region R1 is provided at each end of the seal 30.

[0089] According to this modification 2, the influence of the adhesive in the adhesive region R1 on the laminate 25 can be minimized. Furthermore, low molecular weight components in the interlayer can be prevented from entering the liquid crystal layer of the PDLC film through the adhesive, thereby preventing the edge of the PDLC film from becoming transparent.

[0090] <Modification 3 of the First Embodiment>

[0091] Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional view showing a light-adjusting film according to a third modification of the first embodiment.

[0092] In this modification 3, the first base material 251 and the second base material 255 of the stacked body 25 are arranged offset in the Z direction. That is, the first base material 251 and the second base material 255 are not arranged completely opposite to each other in the Z direction.

[0093] At one end of the stacked body 25 in the X direction, the adhesive region R1 is provided on the inner surface 31 of the seal 30 at a position opposing the side surfaces of the first substrate 251 and the side surfaces of the light-adjusting layer 253, while the remainder of the inner surface 31 of the seal 30 is the non-adhesive region R2. At the other end of the stacked body 25 in the X direction, the adhesive region R1 is provided only on the inner surface 31 of the seal 30 at a position opposing the side surfaces of the second substrate 255 and the side surfaces of the light-adjusting layer 253, while the remainder of the inner surface 31 of the seal 30 is the non-adhesive region R2.

[0094] According to this third variation, the non-adhesive region R2 can be made as large as possible. As in the first embodiment, this prevents low-molecular-weight components in the interlayer from entering the liquid crystal layer of the PDLC film via the adhesive, which could cause the edges of the PDLC film to become transparent. Furthermore, foaming can be suppressed.

[0095] <Variation 4 of the First Embodiment>

[0096] Figure 7 This is a cross-sectional view showing a light-adjusting film according to a fourth modification of the first embodiment.

[0097] In this modification 4, similar to the modification 3, the first base material 251 and the second base material 255 of the stacked body 25 are arranged offset in the Z direction. In other words, the first base material 251 and the second base material 255 are not arranged completely opposite to each other in the Z direction.

[0098] At one end of the stacked body 25 in the X direction, the adhesive region R1 is provided on the inner surface 31 of the sealant 30 at a position opposing the side surfaces of the first substrate 251, the side surfaces of the light-adjusting layer 253, the upper surface of the second substrate 255 exposed from the light-adjusting layer 253, and a portion of the upper surface of the first substrate 251. The remainder of the inner surface 31 of the sealant 30 is the non-adhesive region R2. At the other end of the stacked body 25 in the X direction, the adhesive region R1 is provided on the inner surface 31 of the sealant 30 at a position opposing the side surfaces of the second substrate 255, the side surfaces of the light-adjusting layer 253, the lower surface of the first substrate 251 exposed from the light-adjusting layer 253, and a portion of the lower surface of the second substrate 255. The remainder of the inner surface 31 of the sealant 30 is the non-adhesive region R2.

[0099] The arrangement of the seal 30 in the Y direction is the same as that in the X direction, and thus detailed description thereof is omitted here.

[0100] According to this modification example 4, similar to the first embodiment, it is possible to prevent low molecular weight components in the interlayer from entering the liquid crystal layer of the PDLC film via the adhesive, thereby preventing the edge of the PDLC film from becoming transparent. Furthermore, it is possible to suppress foaming.

[0101] <Variation 5 of the First Embodiment>

[0102] Figure 8 It is a cross-sectional view showing a light-adjusting film according to a fifth modification of the first embodiment.

[0103] In Modification 5, the structure of the seal 30 at one end of the stacked body 25 in the X direction is changed compared to Modification 3. The structure of the seal 30 at the other end of the stacked body 25 in the X direction is the same as that of Modification 3.

[0104] like Figure 8 As shown, the seal 30 has multiple (three in this example) adhesive regions R1 at one end of the laminate 25 in the X direction. One adhesive region R1 is provided on the inner surface 31 of the seal 30 at a position opposing the side surface of the first substrate 251, the side surface of the light-adjusting layer 253, the upper surface of the second substrate 255 exposed from the light-adjusting layer 253, and the side surface of the second substrate 255. Furthermore, one adhesive region R1 is provided at each end of the inner surface 31 of the seal 30. The remainder of the inner surface 31 of the seal 30 is a non-adhesive region R2.

[0105] According to this fifth modification, similar to the third modification, the non-adhesive region R2 can be made as large as possible at the other end of the stack 25 in the X direction. Furthermore, similar to the first embodiment, low-molecular components in the interlayer can be prevented from entering the liquid crystal layer of the PDLC film via the adhesive, thereby preventing the edges of the PDLC film from becoming transparent. Furthermore, since a larger adhesive region R1 is provided at one end of the stack 25 in the X direction, the seal 30 can be securely attached to the stack 25.

[0106] <Modification 6 of the First Embodiment>

[0107] Figure 9 This is a cross-sectional view showing a light-adjusting film according to a sixth modification of the first embodiment.

[0108] In this modification 6, the first base material 251 and the second base material 255 of the stacked body 25 are arranged so as to be offset in the Z direction.

[0109] At one end of the stacked body 25 in the X direction, the adhesive region R1 is provided on the inner surface 31 of the sealant 30, at a position opposing the side surface of the first substrate 251, the side surface of the light-adjusting layer 253, the upper surface of the second substrate 255 exposed from the light-adjusting layer 253, a portion of the upper surface of the first substrate 251, and a portion of the lower surface of the second substrate 255. The remainder of the inner surface 31 of the sealant 30 is the non-adhesive region R2. At the other end of the stacked body 25 in the X direction, the adhesive region R1 is provided on the inner surface 31 of the sealant 30, at a position opposing the side surface of the second substrate 255, the side surface of the light-adjusting layer 253, the lower surface of the first substrate 251 exposed from the light-adjusting layer 253, a portion of the upper surface of the first substrate 251, and a portion of the lower surface of the second substrate 255. The remainder of the inner surface 31 of the sealant 30 is the non-adhesive region R2.

[0110] According to this modification example 6, similar to the first embodiment, it is possible to prevent low molecular weight components in the interlayer from entering the liquid crystal layer of the PDLC film via the adhesive, thereby preventing the edge of the PDLC film from becoming transparent. Furthermore, it is possible to suppress foaming.

[0111] <Variation 7 of the First Embodiment>

[0112] Figure 10 It is a cross-sectional view showing a light-adjusting film according to a seventh modification of the first embodiment.

[0113] In Modification 7, compared with Modification 6, both end portions of the seal 30 are offset in the Z direction.

[0114] According to this seventh variation, compared to the sixth variation, the non-adhesive area at both ends of the seal 30 can be further increased, thereby further preventing low-molecular components in the interlayer from entering the liquid crystal layer of the PDLC film through the adhesive, which could cause the edges of the PDLC film to become transparent. Furthermore, foaming can be suppressed.

[0115] <Second embodiment>

[0116] Next, refer to Figure 11 A light-adjusting film according to a second embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0117] In the second embodiment, the structures of the first substrate 251, first conductive layer 252, dimming layer 253, second conductive layer 254, and second substrate 255 of the laminate are the same as those in the first embodiment, and therefore detailed descriptions are omitted here. The second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in the structure of the sealing member 30, which is described in detail below.

[0118] like Figure 11 As shown, an adhesive region R1 is provided over the entire inner surface 31 of the seal 30. Furthermore, non-adhesive members 40 are attached to both ends of the seal 30. The non-adhesive member 40 is disposed so that one end is sandwiched between the adhesive region R1 at the end of the seal 30 and the base material of the laminate, and the other end covers the outer surface of the seal 30.

[0119] By interposing the non-adhesive member 40 between the adhesive region R1 at the end of the seal 30 and the substrate of the laminate, a non-adhesive region is formed by the non-adhesive member 40. This prevents low-molecular components in the interlayer from entering the liquid crystal layer of the PDLC film via the adhesive, thus preventing the edges of the PDLC film from becoming transparent. Furthermore, foaming can be suppressed.

[0120] <Third embodiment>

[0121] Next, refer to Figure 12 A light-adjusting film according to a third embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0122] In the third embodiment, the structures of the first substrate 251, first conductive layer 252, dimming layer 253, second conductive layer 254, and second substrate 255 of the laminate are the same as those in the first embodiment, and therefore detailed descriptions are omitted here. The third embodiment differs from the first embodiment in the structure of the sealing member 30, which is described in detail below.

[0123] like Figure 12As shown, the seal 30 includes a first seal 301 and a second seal 302. The first seal 301 and the second seal 302 are symmetrical in structure. Here, the first seal 301 is described, and the description of the second seal 302 is omitted.

[0124] The first sealing member 301 has an adhesive region R1 substantially in the middle of its inner surface, and non-adhesive regions R2 at both ends.

[0125] The first seal 301 and the second seal 302 overlap in the Z direction, sandwiching one end edge of the laminate 25 therebetween. In this overlapping state, a portion of the adhesive region R1 of the first seal 301 overlaps with a portion of the adhesive region R1 of the second seal 302, while the remaining portion of the adhesive region R1 of the first seal 301 covers the side surfaces of the first substrate 251, the side surfaces of the light-adjusting layer 253, and the top surface of the first substrate 251. Furthermore, in this overlapping state, a portion of the adhesive region R1 of the second seal 302 overlaps with a portion of the adhesive region R1 of the first seal 301, while the remaining portion of the adhesive region R1 of the second seal 302 covers the side surfaces of the second substrate 255, the side surfaces of the light-adjusting layer 253, and the bottom surface of the second substrate 255.

[0126] According to the third embodiment, the seal 30 is formed by overlapping the first seal 301 and the second seal 302 in the Z direction, and thus suitable bonding can be performed even when the edge of the laminate 25 is bent in the XY plane.

[0127] In the third embodiment, the non-adhesive regions R2 provided at both ends of the first and second sealants 301 and 302 allow air to escape from the overlapping portions, thereby suppressing interlayer bubbling and preventing the edges of the light-adjusting film from becoming transparent.

[0128] <Fourth embodiment>

[0129] Below, refer to Figure 13 、 14 A light-adjusting film according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0130] exist Figure 13 The seals are omitted in the figure. Figure 13 As shown, at least one of the first conductive layer 252 and the second conductive layer 254 of the laminate is connected to the electrode 50. In this case, there is a possibility that low molecular weight components in the intermediate film enter the light-adjusting layer 253 through the connection portion of the electrode 50.

[0131] like Figure 14As shown, in this embodiment, the seal 30 provided at the end of the stack 25 on the electrode 50 side includes a first seal 301 and a second seal 302. As in the third embodiment, the first seal 301 and the second seal 302 have a vertically symmetrical structure. Here, the first seal 301 is described, and the description of the second seal 302 is omitted.

[0132] The first sealing member 301 has an adhesive region R1 substantially in the middle of its inner surface, and non-adhesive regions R2 at both ends.

[0133] The first sealing member 301 and the second sealing member 302 overlap in the Z direction so as to sandwich the laminated body 25 and the electrode 50. In the overlapping state, the adhesive region R1 of the first sealing member 301 covers a portion of the upper surface of the first substrate 251, the side surface of the first substrate 251, and the upper surface of the electrode 50, while the adhesive region R1 of the second sealing member 302 covers a portion of the lower surface of the second substrate 255, the side surface of the second substrate 255, and the lower surface of the electrode 50.

[0134] According to the fourth embodiment, the connection between the electrode 50 and at least one of the first conductive layer 252 and the second conductive layer 254 is sealed by the adhesive region R1 of each of the first seal 301 and the second seal 302. This prevents low-molecular components in the interlayer from entering the light-adjusting layer through the connection between the electrodes. Furthermore, foaming can be suppressed.

[0135] <Modification 1 of the Fourth Embodiment>

[0136] Figure 15 It is a cross-sectional view showing the structure of a light-adjusting film according to a first modification of the fourth embodiment.

[0137] In this first modification, the light-adjusting layer 253 is aligned with the end of the second substrate 255 on the electrode 50 side. In contrast, the end of the first substrate 251 on the electrode 50 side protrudes a certain distance from the light-adjusting layer 253. In this case, low-molecular components in the interlayer film are more likely to enter the light-adjusting layer 253 through the lower surface of the electrode 50.

[0138] To this end, in this first variation, the seal 30 is configured such that an adhesive region R1 is provided approximately in the middle of its inner surface, and non-adhesive regions R2 are provided at both ends. The adhesive region R1 covers a portion of the lower surface of the second substrate 255, the side surfaces of the second substrate 255, the side surfaces of the light-adjusting layer 253, and the lower surface of the electrode 50.

[0139] According to this modification 1, low molecular weight components in the intermediate film can also be prevented from entering the light-adjusting layer via the electrodes.

[0140] <Modification 2 of the Fourth Embodiment>

[0141] Figure 16 It is a cross-sectional view showing the structure of a light-adjusting film according to a second modification of the fourth embodiment.

[0142] In this second modification, the light-adjusting layer 253 is aligned with the end of the second substrate 255 on the electrode 50 side. In contrast, the end of the first substrate 251 on the electrode 50 side protrudes from the light-adjusting layer 253 and extends until it is aligned with the end of the electrode 50. In this case, low-molecular components in the interlayer film are more likely to enter the light-adjusting layer 253 through the lower surface of the electrode 50.

[0143] To this end, in this second variation, the sealant 30 is provided so that the adhesive region R1 covers a portion of the lower surface of the second substrate 255, the side surface of the second substrate 255, the side surface of the light-adjusting layer 253, and a portion of the lower surface of the electrode 50. The non-adhesive region R2 of the sealant 30 covers the lower surface of the second substrate 255 and a portion of the lower surface of the electrode 50.

[0144] According to this modification 2, low molecular weight components in the interlayer can also be prevented from entering the light-adjusting layer via the electrodes.

[0145] The inventors of this application have found that a ratio of the adhesive region R1 to the non-adhesive region R2 of the seal 30 in the range of 2:8 to 8:2 is more reasonable. Furthermore, from the perspective of adhesion accuracy and suppression of edge transparency, it is more ideal that the ratio of the adhesive region R1 to the non-adhesive region R2 is in the range of 2:7 to 8:2. More ideally, the ratio of the adhesive region R1 to the non-adhesive region R2 is in the range of 4:6 to 8:2.

[0146] (Manufacturing of dimming films)

[0147] First, a sealant with a total thickness of approximately 53 microns and a width of 10 mm was prepared. The sealant had an approximately 25-micron-thick polyester substrate and an approximately 28-micron-thick acrylic adhesive applied to one side. The adhesive was partially removed from the sealant, creating an adhesive region R1 in the center and two non-adhesive regions R2 at each end. As shown in Table 1, the widths of the adhesive region R1 and the two non-adhesive regions R2 were varied to produce four sealants.

[0148] Width of seal Width of adhesive region R1 Width of non-adhesive region R2 Seal 1 10mm 4mm 3mm, 3mm Seal 2 10mm 6mm 2mm, 2mm Seal 3 10mm 8mm 1mm, 1mm Seal 4 10mm 10mm 0mm

[0149] Table 1

[0150] Then, if Figure 17As shown, the four resulting sealants were placed with the adhesive region R1 facing the active layer of the laminate and attached to the four sides of the laminate. The laminate consisted of a laminate in which the active layer was sandwiched between a first substrate and a second substrate, each with a conductive layer disposed thereon. Thus, the adhesive region R1 of each sealant faced the active layer.

[0151] (Degradation Width Evaluation)

[0152] First, a 2mm-thick glass sheet, a 0.38mm-thick interlayer, a sealant-attached dimming film, a 0.38mm-thick interlayer, and a 2mm-thick glass sheet were stacked in this order to produce a laminated glass sheet. The laminated glass sheet was then placed in a resin bag, which was evacuated and then held at 120°C for 30 minutes. The laminated glass sheet was then placed in a pressure vessel and heated and pressurized at 110°C and 1.3 MPa to produce laminated glass. The resulting laminated glass was then held at 100°C for a maximum of approximately 500 hours, and the degradation width at the edge of the dimming film was measured.

[0153] As a result, if Figure 18 As shown, in the area where the seal 4 without the non-adhesive region R2 is attached, the longer the storage time, the larger the deterioration width. After approximately 500 hours of storage, the deterioration width exceeded 10 mm. On the other hand, for seals 1, 2, and 3 with two non-adhesive regions R2, the deterioration width was suppressed to a certain level even after a long storage time. After approximately 500 hours of storage, the deterioration width was less than 4 mm. In addition, seal 1 had the smallest deterioration width, with the deterioration width remaining less than 3 mm even after approximately 500 hours of storage.

[0154] Regarding foaming, none of seals 1 through 4 exhibited this. This is believed to be because seals 1 through 4 were positioned so that the adhesive region R1 faced the active layer, preventing any gaps from forming in the center of the seals. Furthermore, in seals 1 through 3, the absence of adhesive near either end of the seals is also believed to be responsible for the fact that air was expelled from the non-adhesive region R2 during vacuuming, preventing any gaps from forming between the seals and the laminate.

[0155] While the embodiments of the present invention and their variations are described above, it should be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to the aforementioned embodiments and structures. The present disclosure also includes various variations and equivalents. In addition, various combinations and methods, and further combinations and methods that include only one element, or more or less than the above elements, also fall within the scope and concept of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. A dimming film (10), comprising a laminate (25) and at least one sealing member (30), The laminate comprises: active layer (253); a first substrate (251) and a second substrate (255) disposed so as to sandwich the active layer therebetween; and a first conductive layer (252) provided on the surface of the first substrate facing the active layer and a second conductive layer (254) provided on the surface of the second substrate facing the active layer, The seal is installed so as to surround the side edge of the stacked body in a cross-sectional view of the stacked body. The sealing member is provided with at least one adhesive region (R1) and at least one non-adhesive region (R2) on a surface opposite to the laminate. At least one of the adhesive regions is disposed opposite to the active layer.

2. The light-adjusting film according to claim 1, wherein: The ratio of the adhesive region to the non-adhesive region is 2:8 to 8:

2.

3. The light-adjusting film according to claim 1, wherein: The seal member is provided so that, in the mounted state, one adhesive region extends across the active layer to a side edge of at least one of the first substrate and the second substrate.

4. The light-adjusting film according to claim 3, wherein: The seal is configured so that, in the installed state, one of the adhesive areas extends across the active layer to the side edge of at least either the first substrate or the second substrate, and further extends to an area opposite to the surface of the first substrate facing the active layer and / or the surface of the second substrate facing the active layer.

5. The dimming film according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein: A non-adhesive area is provided on at least one of the two end portions of the seal away from the active layer, and in the installed state, the non-adhesive area is in contact with the surface of the first substrate opposite to the surface facing the active layer and / or the surface of the second substrate opposite to the surface facing the active layer.

6. The light-switching film according to claim 1, wherein: The plurality of adhesive regions and the plurality of non-adhesive regions are provided at intervals on a surface of the sealing member facing the laminated body.

7. The light-adjusting film according to claim 1, wherein: The non-adhesive region is formed by a non-adhesive member (40), The non-adhesive member is provided so that one end thereof is interposed between an end portion of the seal member that is away from the active layer and the laminate.

8. The light-adjusting film according to claim 7, wherein: The other end of the non-adhesive member is in contact with a surface of the seal material opposite to the surface facing the stacked body.

9. The light-adjusting film according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein: comprising a plurality of sealing members partially overlapping each other along the thickness direction of the stacked body, The plurality of seal members are installed to seal and surround the side edges of the stacked body in a plan view.

10. The light-switching film according to claim 1, wherein: The sealing member is composed of a first sealing member (301) and a second sealing member (302), The first sealing member and the second sealing member are provided with the adhesive region in the middle portion of the inner surface facing the stacked body, and the non-adhesive region at both end portions. The first sealing member and the second sealing member overlap in the thickness direction of the stacked body so as to sandwich one end edge of the stacked body.

11. The light-adjusting film according to claim 1, wherein: At least one of the first conductive layer and the second conductive layer of the stack is connected to an electrode (50), At least one of the seals is configured to seal at least a connection point of the electrode via the adhesive region.

12. A laminated glass comprising: a first glass plate (21); a second glass plate (22); an intermediate film (23) sandwiched between the first glass plate and the second glass plate; as well as The light-adjusting film according to any one of claims 1 to 11, the periphery of which is covered by the intermediate film.

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