Membrane-free external lens with automatic shading

Abstract

Aspects of the present disclosure include filmless outer lenses with automatic shading and methods of making and using the same. An example vehicle includes an outer lens having a bottom lens and a top lens secured to the bottom lens. An auto-shading material is embedded between the bottom lens and the top lens. The auto-shading material includes discrete sub-structures that vary in alignment in response to an electric field, thereby changing at least one of transmittance and emission color through the outer lens. The wire is electrically coupled to the auto-shading material. A controller electrically coupled to the wire is configured to direct a switching voltage to the switcher to change a state of the switcher such that the wire transfers an electric field to the discrete sub-structures to change at least one of transmittance and emission color through the outer lens.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to lighting technology, and in particular to utilizing a film-less exterior lens with automatic shading for both light-transmitting and light-blocking applications. Background Art

[0002] Automatic shading films or laminates, also known as variable transmittance, auto-dimming, or self-dimming glass panels, are advanced laminates that can dynamically adjust their light transmittance levels in response to a range of external factors, such as light intensity, temperature, and / or user preferences. By adjusting the transmittance, variable transmittance glass panels can adjust the level of shading provided by the panel as needed (e.g., auto-dimming). Variable transmittance glass panels have been used in a range of applications across various industries, including the automotive, construction, and aerospace industries. These types of panels are particularly useful in applications such as windows, skylights, and building facades, where it is necessary to regulate the amount of light and heat entering a space for comfort, energy efficiency, and privacy. Summary of the Invention

[0003] In one exemplary embodiment, a vehicle includes an exterior lens having a bottom lens coated with a first conductive coating and a top lens coated with a second conductive coating. The top lens is secured to the bottom lens. An auto-shading material is embedded between the bottom lens and the top lens. The auto-shading material includes discrete substructures that change in alignment in response to an electric field, thereby changing at least one of a transmittance and an emission color through the exterior lens. A wire is electrically coupled to the auto-shading material. A controller electrically coupled to the wire is configured to direct a switching voltage to a switch to change a state of the switch, thereby causing the wire to transmit the electric field to the discrete substructures to change at least one of a transmittance and an emission color through the exterior lens.

[0004] In addition to one or more features described herein, in some embodiments, the auto-shading material comprises a filmless auto-shading material.

[0005] In some embodiments, the top lens is secured to the bottom lens via one or more sealing caps.

[0006] In some embodiments, the top lens and the bottom lens comprise a light-transmitting material. In some embodiments, the top lens comprises a light-transmitting material and the bottom lens comprises a light-opaque material.

[0007] In some embodiments, the auto-shading material has a first transmittance when the switch is in the first state and a second transmittance greater than the first transmittance when the switch is in the second state.

[0008] In some embodiments, when the switch is in a first state, the outer lens emits a first color, and when the switch is in a second state, the outer lens emits a second color different from the first color.

[0009] In another exemplary embodiment, a lens includes a bottom lens coated with a first conductive coating and a top lens coated with a second conductive coating. The top lens is secured to the bottom lens. The lens includes an auto-shading material embedded between the bottom and top lenses. The auto-shading material includes discrete substructures that change in alignment in response to an electric field, thereby changing at least one of transmittance and emission color through the lens. Conductive wires are electrically coupled to the auto-shading material.

[0010] In some embodiments, the auto-shading material comprises a filmless auto-shading material.

[0011] In some embodiments, the top lens and the bottom lens comprise a light-transmitting material. In some embodiments, the top lens comprises a light-transmitting material and the bottom lens comprises a light-opaque material.

[0012] In some embodiments, the wire is electrically connected to a controller, and the controller is configured to direct a switching voltage to the switch to change the state of the switch, thereby causing the wire to transmit an electric field to the discrete substructure to change at least one of the transmittance and emission color through the lens.

[0013] In some embodiments, the auto-shading material has a first transmittance when the switch is in the first state and a second transmittance greater than the first transmittance when the switch is in the second state.

[0014] In some embodiments, when the switch is in a first state, the lens emits a first color, and when the switch is in a second state, the lens emits a second color different from the first color.

[0015] In yet another exemplary embodiment, a method may include providing an external lens by coating a bottom lens with a first coated conductive layer, coating a top lens with a second coated conductive layer, and securing the top lens to the bottom lens. The method may include embedding an auto-shading material between the bottom lens and the top lens. The auto-shading material includes discrete substructures that change in alignment in response to an electric field, thereby changing at least one of the transmittance and emission color through the external lens. The method may include electrically connecting a wire to the auto-shading material and electrically connecting a controller to the wire. The controller may be configured to direct a switching voltage to a switch to change the state of the switch from a first state to a second state, thereby causing the wire to transmit the electric field to the discrete substructures to change at least one of the transmittance and emission color through the external lens. The method may include receiving a request for a second state, and in response to the request, directing a switching voltage to the switch to cause the switch to change from the first state to the second state.

[0016] In some embodiments, the auto-shading material comprises a filmless auto-shading material.

[0017] In some embodiments, the top lens and the bottom lens comprise a light-transmitting material. In some embodiments, the top lens comprises a light-transmitting material and the bottom lens comprises a light-opaque material.

[0018] In some embodiments, the auto-shading material has a first transmittance when the switch is in the first state and a second transmittance greater than the first transmittance when the switch is in the second state.

[0019] In some embodiments, when the switch is in a first state, the outer lens emits a first color, and when the switch is in a second state, the outer lens emits a second color different from the first color.

[0020] The above features and advantages and other features and advantages of the present disclosure are readily apparent from the following detailed description when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0021] Additional features, advantages, and details appear, by way of example only, in the following detailed description, which refers to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0022] Figure 1 is a vehicle configured according to one or more embodiments;

[0023] Figure 2A is a cross-sectional view of a filmless auto-shielding exterior lens in a first state according to one or more embodiments;

[0024] Figure 2B is in a second state according to one or more embodiments Figure 2AA cross-sectional view of a non-filmed automatic light-shielding external lens;

[0025] Figure 3 is an example process flow for manufacturing a film-less auto-shading lens according to one or more embodiments;

[0026] Figure 4A is a view of a molded part for securing an opening for injecting an auto-shading material between a bottom lens and a top lens according to one or more embodiments;

[0027] Figure 4B is a diagram of a spacer for securing an opening for injecting an auto-shading material between a bottom lens and a top lens according to one or more embodiments;

[0028] Figure 4C is a view of an opening secured via a bead of auto-shading material injected between a bottom lens and a top lens in accordance with one or more embodiments;

[0029] Figure 5 is a computer system according to one or more embodiments; and

[0030] Figure 6 is a flow chart according to one or more embodiments. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0031] The following description is merely exemplary in nature and is not intended to limit the present disclosure, its application or use. It should be understood that throughout the drawings, corresponding reference numerals indicate identical or corresponding parts and features. As used herein, the term module refers to a processing circuit, which may include an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), an electronic circuit, a processor (shared, dedicated, or group) and memory that executes one or more software or firmware programs, combinational logic circuits, and / or other suitable components that provide the described functionality.

[0032] Automatic sunshade films are typically made of polymer dispersed liquid crystal (PDLC) and / or electrochromic (EC) materials, which can change their optical properties in response to a stimulus (e.g., an applied voltage). Notably, such films can seamlessly transition between different levels of transmittance, opacity, and even color, and can be used to dynamically respond to external factors such as light intensity, temperature fluctuations, and even user preferences. For example, in the automotive industry, automatic sunshade films can be integrated into windows, sunroofs, and other light-transmitting surfaces to enhance the driving experience. For example, windows made with automatic sunshade films can vary in transmittance for passenger privacy and comfort. These changes can be controlled by the driver and / or passengers themselves and / or automatically (e.g., dynamically increasing opacity in response to measured increases in sunlight intensity). In architectural applications, these automatic sunshade films can be used on windows, sunroofs, and facades, enabling architects and designers to create environments that balance natural light with privacy and energy efficiency.

[0033] Automatic light-shielding films are typically integrated into lighting and / or lens systems using a so-called overmolding process. In these manufacturing schemes, the automatic light-shielding film is laminated between the inner and outer layers (e.g., inner and outer lenses) of a laminated composite. The process can begin with the preparation of a lens substrate, which is typically made of glass or other light-transmitting materials. The automatic light-shielding film is carefully applied to the surface of the lens substrate. A heat-conducting layer can be added to enhance the ability of the automatic light-shielding film to withstand high temperatures during subsequent overmolding. Overmolding itself involves the combination of overmolding materials (such as thermoplastic and / or thermosetting polymers), which can be applied to the lens substrate coated with the automatic light-shielding film using heat and / or pressure to encapsulate the automatic light-shielding film in the resulting laminate. The material used for overmolding is selected based on factors such as compatibility with the automatic light-shielding film, the desired mechanical properties of the final laminate, and the selected manufacturing method.

[0034] However, when drastically varying curvatures are involved or desired, challenges arise in completing the overmolding process. In particular, auto-shading films are not inherently compatible with all possible lens geometries—sufficiently small radius curvatures cause the auto-shading films to delaminate during the molding process due to the intense forming requirements. As used herein, "small radius curvature" refers to curvatures with a radius of less than 300 mm, because the auto-shading films delaminate and / or are otherwise structurally unstable when exceeding this curvature. This limitation inherently limits the types of lens designs that can be used for auto-shading applications.

[0035] This disclosure introduces a film-free external lens with auto-shading functionality for both light-transmitting and opaque applications. This disclosure introduces a way to create an auto-shading system without the use of an auto-shading film, rather than relying on an auto-shading film that is inherently incompatible with small radius curvatures. The result is a new film-free external lens structure that is compatible with both light-transmitting and opaque applications with arbitrary radius curvatures.

[0036] In some embodiments, the outer lens is constructed from a top lens and a bottom lens produced by separate injection molding processes. A light-transmitting conductive material can be applied to the inner surface of one or both of the top lens and the bottom lens to provide electrical energy to the automatic light-shielding material that fills the gap between the top lens and the bottom lens. In some embodiments, the top lens and the bottom lens can be assembled together and the automatic light-shielding material can be added through a prefabricated opening in the assembly. The opening can be sealed with a sealing material to secure the automatic light-shielding material therein. A moisture barrier coating can be added to one or both of the top lens and the bottom lens to prevent any condensation inside the outer lens, depending on the automatic light-shielding material for a given application (e.g., for moisture-sensitive materials such as EC).

[0037] The filmless exterior lens constructed in accordance with one or more embodiments provides several technical advantages over existing film-based architectures. Notably, the filmless exterior lens described herein can be applied to both light-transmitting and light-opaque applications having an arbitrary radius of curvature as previously described. Other advantages are possible. For light-transmitting applications, the filmless exterior lens described herein can be utilized to enhance vehicle styling in terms of exterior and / or interior lighting assemblies (particularly for compact curved surfaces that were previously incompatible with auto-shading applications). For light-opaque applications, a light-opaque conductive material or lens material can be applied to the bottom lens, thereby enabling a color-changing component in combination with a color-changing auto-shading material. In addition, the filmless exterior lens described herein can include a structural composite bonded during the molding process for direct compatibility with large light-opaque substrates (e.g., roof glass structures).

[0038] According to an exemplary embodiment, the vehicle Figure 1 100. The vehicle 100 is shown in the form of an automobile having a body 102. The body 102 includes a passenger compartment 104 in which a steering wheel, front seats, and rear passenger seats (not shown separately) are arranged. The body 102 also includes a plurality of light-transmitting structures 106 and light-impermeable structures 108. Although not meant to be particularly limited, the light-transmitting structures 106 may include, for example, interior and / or exterior glass or polymer laminate lighting components, such as headlights, front headlights, rear taillights, turn signals, backup lights, decorative and signage lighting, etc. Although not meant to be particularly limited, the light-impermeable structures 108 may include, for example, door panels, a roof, a hood, running boards, etc. Figure 1 The specific light-transmitting structures 106 and / or light-impermeable structures 108 (i.e., passenger doors, headlights, etc.) highlighted herein are merely examples to facilitate illustration and discussion. It should be understood that any aspect of the present disclosure may be applied to any light-transmitting and / or light-impermeable structure, including structures of the vehicle 100 as well as non-automotive applications.

[0039] As will be described in detail herein, one or more of the light-transmitting structures 106 and / or one or more of the non-light-transmitting structures 108 include a film-less external lens with automatic light-blocking capabilities (also referred to as a film-less automatic light-blocking lens). Figure 2A and 2B Discusses illustrative filmless auto-darkening lenses in more detail. Figure 3 An illustrative process for making a film-less auto-shielding lens is discussed in more detail.

[0040] Figure 2A and 2B FIG2 shows a cross-sectional view of a film-free automatic light-shielding external lens 200 (referred to as external lens 200 for short) according to one or more embodiments. The external lens 200 can be incorporated into any system's light-transmitting and / or light-impermeable structures (e.g., Figure 1 within the light-transmitting structure 106 and / or the light-impermeable structure 108 of the vehicle 100 . Figure 2A The outer lens 200 is shown in a first state, and Figure 2B The outer lens 200 is shown in a second state. In some embodiments, the first state is a light-opaque or frosted state (eg, a relatively low transmittance state), and the second state is a light-transmitting state (eg, a relatively high transmittance state).

[0041] like Figure 2A and 2B As shown, the outer lens 200 includes an auto-shading material 202 fixed between multiple layers 204a and 204b that are optionally thermally conductive. The auto-shading material 202 can be made of any suitable material known to provide variable, controllable transmittance, such as polymers such as PDLC, EC materials, and / or tungsten oxide (WO3)-based materials. Other auto-shading materials are possible, and all such configurations are within the intended scope of the present disclosure.

[0042] The plurality of heat-conducting layers 204a and 204b (if present) can be made of the same or different layers. In some embodiments, the plurality of heat-conducting layers 204a and 204b each include a thermally conductive coating. The thickness of the plurality of heat-conducting layers 204a and 204b can vary as needed based on thermal threading performance. In some embodiments, the thickness of the plurality of heat-conducting layers 204a and 204b is between 0.5 mm and 5.0 mm, but other thicknesses are also within the expected scope of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the plurality of heat-conducting layers 204a and 204b can be made of a light-transmitting or nearly light-transmitting material (light transmittance greater than 90%). In some embodiments, the plurality of heat-conducting layers 204a and 204b are not light-transmitting. For example, in some embodiments, the heat-conducting layer is made of an opaque material, such as carbon black and / or metal foil (one or more), and / or is made of a relatively thick layer that hinders light transmittance. In some embodiments, the thermally conductive layer includes a graphene layer (k ~ 3000 W / mK), a single layer of hexagonal boron nitride (h-BN) (k ~ 550 W / mK), aluminum oxide (Al2O3) (k ~ 10 W / mK), sapphire (k ~ 1000 W / mK) and / or indium tin oxide (k ~ 2 W / mK), but other materials are also within the intended scope of the present disclosure.

[0043] Advantageously, in some embodiments, the thermally conductive layers 204a and 204b are not present (i.e., they can be omitted), and the auto-shading material 202 is secured between the bottom lens 208 and the top lens 210 of the outer lens 200. The thermally conductive layers 204a and 204b can be omitted in one or more embodiments because the auto-shading material 202 does not undergo a conventional co-molding process. The ability to omit the thermally conductive layers 204a and 204b represents an advantage over known lenses with auto-shading films made using a co-molding process.

[0044] In some embodiments, the moisture barrier coating 206 is located between the autoshading material 202 and the thermally conductive layers 204a and 204b. The moisture barrier coating 206 can prevent condensation inside the outer lens 200 before, during, and after the molding process used to form / laminate the outer lens 200 (see Figure 3 ).

[0045] like Figure 2A and 2B As further shown in FIG, outer lens 200 is a composite lens including a bottom lens 208 and a top lens 210. Bottom lens 208 and top lens 210 are coupled (e.g., sealed) together to encapsulate autoshading material 202 and thermally conductive layers 204a and 204b (when present).

[0046] The bottom lens 208 and the top lens 210 can be made of a range of suitable light-transmitting and light-impermeable polymers for overmolding. For light-transmitting applications, for example, both the bottom lens 208 and the top lens 210 can be made of light-transmitting materials. For non-light-transmitting applications, for example, the bottom lens 208 can be made of light-impermeable materials and the top lens 210 can be made of light-transmitting materials. In some embodiments, the bottom lens 208 and the top lens 210 are made of benzoxazine, bismaleimide (BMI), cyanate ester, epoxy resin, phenolic resin (PF), polyacrylate (acrylic acid), polyimide (PI), unsaturated polyester, polyurethane (PUR), vinyl ester, siloxane, their co-light-transmitting layers, and combinations thereof. In some aspects, the bottom lens 208 and the top lens 210 can be a thermoplastic light-transmitting layer selected from the group consisting of: polyethyleneimine (PEI), polyamide-imide (PAI), polyamide (PA) (e.g., nylon 6, nylon 66, nylon 12, nylon 11, nylon 6-3-T), polyetheretherketone (PEEK), polyetherketone (PEK), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyphenylene sulfide (PPS), thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), polypropylene (PP), polycarbonate / acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (PC / ABS), high-density polyethylene (HDPE), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA), styrene methyl methacrylate (SMMA), methyl methacrylate acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (MABS), polycarbonate (PC), polyaryletherketone (PAEK), polyetherketoneketone (PEKK), their co-light-transmitting layers, and combinations thereof.

[0047] In some embodiments, the auto-shading material 202 of the outer lens 200 includes discrete molecules and / or substructures 214 that change in alignment and / or optical properties (e.g., color, transmittance, etc.) in response to an applied electric current. The substructures 214 and / or the auto-shading material 202 can be made of electrochromic and / or liquid crystal materials.

[0048] In some embodiments, the substructure 214 includes an electrochromic pigment and / or material that changes color and / or opacity in response to an applied voltage. In some embodiments, the substructure 214 includes an electrochromic pigment that undergoes a reversible electrochemical reaction when an electric current passes through them. For example, depending on the applied voltage, the substructure 214 (e.g., a molecule) can absorb or reflect light, thereby changing the transmittance of the automatic light-shielding material 202. In another example, depending on the applied voltage, the substructure 214 (e.g., a molecule) can cause the light passing through the automatic light-shielding material to switch between a first color and / or transmittance (red, white, light-transmitting, etc.) and a second color and / or transmittance (green, black, light-opaque, etc.) as needed.

[0049] In some embodiments, the substructure 214 includes liquid crystal molecules that can change their alignment and / or optical properties when subjected to an electric field. By applying a voltage, the orientation of the liquid crystal molecules can be controlled, allowing the automatic light-shielding material 202 to switch between states (e.g., between a light-transmitting and a light-opaque state, or between a first color and a second color, etc.) by varying the applied voltage (or current).

[0050] In some embodiments, the transmittance (or opacity, color, etc.) of the automatic light-blocking material 202 is controlled using an external control mechanism including a controller 216, wires 218, and a switch 220. In some embodiments, the controller 216 is configured to direct a switching current to the switch 220 (or inhibit a current from the switch 220). Although not intended to be particularly limiting, in some embodiments, the controller 216 may include, for example, an electronic control unit (ECU) of a vehicle (e.g., vehicle 100).

[0051] In some embodiments, the wire 218 is embedded in the auto-shading material 202 so that closing the switch 220 causes a drive current to be applied to the substructure 214. The drive current can be provided via the controller 216 and / or via an external power source (not separately shown). In some embodiments, opening the switch 220 causes the substructure 214 to be positioned in a random state (see Figure 2A ), and closing the switch 220 causes the substructure 214 to align with the resultant electric field (see Figure 2B In some embodiments, when the switch 220 is in a first state, the outer lens 200 emits a first color (e.g., green), and when the switch 220 is in a second state, the outer lens 200 emits a second color (e.g., red) that is different from the first color.

[0052] In some embodiments, randomly positioning the substructures 214 results in a low transmittance state because light from the light source will be deflected, absorbed, and reflected, in whole or in part, from the substructures 214. In some embodiments, aligning the substructures 214 with an applied electric field results in a high transmittance state because light from the light source will freely pass between the substructures 214 and through the auto-shading material 202. Alternatively or additionally, randomly positioning the substructures 214 can result in emission of light at a first frequency (i.e., a first color), while aligning the substructures 214 with an applied electric field results in emission of light at a second frequency (i.e., a second color).

[0053] Figure 2A The automatic light-shielding material 202 and the switch 220 are depicted in a first, open state, and Figure 2B The automatic light-shielding material 202 and the switch 220 are depicted in a closed second state.

[0054] In some embodiments, the outer lens 200 is positioned to receive light from a light source 222. The light source 222 can be made of any suitable material, such as an incandescent bulb, a fluorescent tube, an LED (light emitting diode), a halogen lamp, etc. In some embodiments, the light source 222 includes an array of LEDs 224 arranged on a substrate 226. The substrate 226 can include, for example, a backplate, but other configurations are also contemplated within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0055] While not intended to be particularly limiting, configuring the exterior lens 200 in this manner allows it to be utilized in a variety of lighting applications. For example, during "daytime" mode, the lighting assembly including the exterior lens 200 can be set to maximum opacity (i.e., minimum transmittance) by opening the switch 220. In this state, the lighting assembly visually blends into the surrounding materials to create a seamless appearance. On the other hand, during "nighttime" mode or during any period when low beam and / or high beam are requested, the switch 220 can be closed to transition the automatic light-blocking material 202 to a maximum transmittance state to allow as much light as possible to exit the exterior lens 200, thereby effectively emitting bright light to surrounding drivers and pedestrians.

[0056] Figure 3 A method for manufacturing a film-free automatic shading lens (e.g., Figure 2A and 2B Example process flow 300 of an outer lens 200). Figure 3 As shown, process flow 300 begins at step 302. At step 302, bottom lens 208 and top lens 210 are separately manufactured using, for example, injection molding, although other molding techniques are contemplated within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0057] At step 304, one of the bottom lens 208 and the top lens 210 (as shown, both) are optionally coated with a plurality of thermally conductive layers 204a and 204b, respectively. The plurality of thermally conductive layers 204a and 204b can include, for example, a conductive coating as described above. In some embodiments, the plurality of thermally conductive layers 204a and 204b are omitted (not separately shown).

[0058] At step 306, the bottom lens 208 and the top lens 210 are assembled to define the outer lens 200. In some embodiments, the bottom lens 208 is fixed to the top lens 210 using a heat and / or pressure-based lamination molding technique. In some embodiments, the bottom lens 208 and the top lens 210 are joined via a sealing cap 307. In some embodiments, the bottom lens 208 and the top lens 210 can be joined using a combination of heat and / or pressure-based molding / lamination techniques and the sealing cap 307. In some embodiments, the sealing cap 307 includes an adhesive. In some embodiments, the sealing cap 307 is made of a material that can be melted, welded, and / or otherwise bonded to the bottom lens 208 to the top lens 210, such as glass, PC, PMMA, and the like, and combinations thereof.

[0059] At step 308, the auto-shading material 202 having the substructure 214 is injected between the bottom lens 208 and the top lens 210. In some embodiments, the auto-shading material 202 is injected through the opening 309 left in the outer lens 200. Notably, the auto-shading material 202 can be formed in this manner without relying on an auto-shading film. Advantageously, the injection-based process described herein enables a range of previously unavailable non-glass laminate applications, such as the use of auto-shading materials in molded parts (e.g., doors, hoods, opaque workpieces, etc.).

[0060] In some embodiments, opening 309 is defined before injecting auto-shading material 202. In other words, the size of opening 309 can be maintained to ensure uniform filling between bottom lens 208 and top lens 210. In some embodiments, sealing cap 307 is used to fix the size of opening 309.

[0061] In some embodiments, the size of the opening 309 is defined using a molded component 402 that is affixed to (or protrudes from in a monolithic embodiment) one or both of the bottom lens 208 and the top lens 210 . Figure 4A A view of opening 309 defined by molded component 402 according to one or more embodiments is shown. Molded component 402 may be integrally secured (ie, made from the same component) with bottom lens 208 (shown) and / or top lens 210 (not separately shown).

[0062] In some embodiments, the size of the opening 309 is defined using one or more spacers 404 formed by coating the respective surfaces of the bottom lens 208 and / or the top lens 210 with a spacer material, such as a dielectric. Figure 4BA view of an opening 309 defined by a via spacer 404 is shown in accordance with one or more embodiments. In some embodiments, the spacer 404 can be made of the same material as the bottom lens 208 and the top lens 210 and / or the optional thermally conductive layers 204a and 204b.

[0063] In some embodiments, the size of the opening 309 is defined using one or more beads 406 that are inserted (eg, injected) into the opening 309 along with the auto-shading material 202 and the substructure 214 . Figure 4C A view of an opening 309 defined via a bead 406 is shown, according to one or more embodiments.

[0064] At step 310, the outer lens 200 is sealed using, for example, a sealing cap 309. The sealing cap 309 can be used to seal the outer lens 200 in a manner similar to that previously described with respect to the sealing cap 307. In some embodiments, the sealing cap 309 includes one or more embedded wires (e.g., Figure 2A and 2B In some embodiments, the wire 218 is electrically coupled to a voltage source (e.g., Figure 2A and 2B controller 216 and / or switch 220).

[0065] Figure 5 Aspects of an embodiment of a computer system 500 that can perform various aspects of the embodiments described herein are shown. In some embodiments, the computer system 500 can be incorporated into or combined with a controller (e.g., controller 216). The computer system 500 includes at least one processing device 502, which generally includes one or more processors for performing various functions, such as controlling the switching and / or driving voltage of the switch 220 and / or the conductor 218. More specifically, the computer system 500 can include the logic required to adjust the transmittance of the automatic light-shielding material (e.g., automatic light-shielding material 202) by applying an electric current, as previously described herein.

[0066] Components of computer system 500 include a processing device 502 (such as one or more processors or processing units), a system memory 504, and a bus 506 that couples various system components, including system memory 504, to the processing device 502. System memory 504 may include various computer system-readable media. Such media may be any available media that can be accessed by processing device 502 and includes both volatile and nonvolatile media, as well as removable and non-removable media.

[0067] For example, system memory 504 includes non-volatile memory 508, such as a hard drive, and may also include volatile memory 510, such as random access memory (RAM) and / or cache memory. Computer system 500 may also include other removable / non-removable, volatile / non-volatile computer system storage media.

[0068] The system memory 504 may include at least one program product having a set (e.g., at least one) of program modules configured to perform the functions of the embodiments described herein. For example, the system memory 504 stores various program modules that generally perform the functions and / or methods of the embodiments described herein. One or more modules 512, 514 may be included to perform functions related to the control of the switch 220, the value of the applied voltage and / or current, etc. The computer system 500 is not limited thereto because other modules may be included depending on the desired functionality of the corresponding display. As used herein, the term "module" refers to a processing circuit, which may include an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), an electronic circuit, a processor (shared, dedicated, or group) and memory, a combinational logic circuit, and / or other suitable components that provide the functions described.

[0069] The processing device 502 may also be configured to communicate with one or more external devices 516, such as, for example, a keyboard, a pointing device, and / or any device that enables the processing device 502 to communicate with one or more other computing devices (e.g., a network card, a modem, a vehicle ECU, etc.). Communication with various devices may occur via input / output (I / O) interfaces 518 and 520.

[0070] The processing device 502 may also communicate with one or more networks 522, such as a local area network (LAN), a general wide area network (WAN), a bus network, and / or a public network (e.g., the Internet), via a network adapter 524. In some embodiments, the network adapter 524 is or includes an optical network adapter for communicating over an optical network. It should be understood that, although not shown, other hardware and / or software components may be used in conjunction with the computer system 500. Examples include, but are not limited to, microcode, device drivers, redundant processing units, external disk drive arrays, RAID systems, and data archival storage systems. In some embodiments, the computer system 500 and / or the processing device 502 may receive information from one or more micro sensors (e.g., sensor unit 302), analyze the information, and send the information (raw, pre-processed, and / or post-processed) to one or more LEDs (e.g., micro LEDs 210) and / or any other component of the vehicle 100.

[0071] Now refer to Figure 6, a flow chart 600 for utilizing a filmless exterior lens with automatic shading for both light-transmitting and non-light-transmitting applications is generally shown, according to an embodiment. Figures 1 to 5 Flowchart 600 is described and may include Figure 6 Additional steps not depicted in the . Although depicted in a specific order, Figure 6 The blocks depicted in the drawings may be rearranged, subdivided, and / or combined.

[0072] At block 602 , the method includes coating a bottom lens with a first coating conductive layer.

[0073] At block 604 , the method includes coating the top lens with a second coating conductive layer.

[0074] At block 606 , the method includes securing the top lens to the bottom lens.

[0075] At block 608, the method includes embedding an auto-shading material between the bottom lens and the top lens. In some embodiments, the auto-shading material includes discrete substructures that change in alignment in response to an electric field, thereby changing at least one of a transmittance and an emission color through the outer lens.

[0076] At block 610 , the method includes electrically coupling a wire to the auto-shading material.

[0077] At block 612, the method includes electrically coupling a controller to the wires. In some embodiments, the controller is configured to direct a switching voltage to the switch to change the state of the switch from a first state to a second state, thereby causing the wires to transmit an electric field to the discrete substructures to change at least one of a transmittance and an emission color through the external lens.

[0078] At block 614 , the method includes receiving a request for a second state.

[0079] At block 616 , the method includes directing a switching voltage to the switch in response to the request, thereby causing the switch to change from the first state to the second state.

[0080] In some embodiments, the auto-shading material comprises a filmless auto-shading material.

[0081] In some embodiments, the top lens and the bottom lens comprise a light-transmitting material. In some embodiments, the top lens comprises a light-transmitting material and the bottom lens comprises a light-opaque material.

[0082] In some embodiments, the auto-shading material comprises a first transmittance when the switch is in the first state and a second transmittance greater than the first transmittance when the switch is in the second state.

[0083] In some embodiments, when the switch is in a first state, the outer lens emits a first color, and when the switch is in a second state, the outer lens emits a second color different from the first color.

[0084] The term "a" or "an" does not indicate a limitation of quantity, but rather indicates the presence of at least one of the referenced item. Unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the term "or" means "and / or". References to "aspects" throughout this specification mean that a particular element (e.g., a feature, structure, step, or characteristic) described in conjunction with that aspect is included in at least one aspect described herein and may or may not be present in other aspects. In addition, it should be understood that the elements described may be combined in any suitable manner in each aspect.

[0085] When an element such as a layer, film, region, or substrate is referred to as being "on" another element, it can be directly on the other element or intervening elements may also be present. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being "directly on" another element, there are no intervening elements present.

[0086] Unless otherwise indicated herein, all test standards are the most current standards in effect as of the filing date of this application, or, if priority is claimed, the filing date of the earliest priority application in which the test standards appear.

[0087] Unless defined otherwise, technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure belongs.

[0088] Although the above disclosure has been described with reference to exemplary embodiments, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes may be made and equivalents may be substituted for elements thereof without departing from the scope thereof. In addition, many modifications may be made to adapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the present disclosure without departing from the basic scope of the present disclosure. Therefore, it is intended that the present disclosure is not limited to the particular embodiments disclosed, but is intended to include all embodiments falling within its scope.

Claims

1. A vehicle comprising: An external lens, the external lens comprising: a bottom lens coated with a first coated conductive layer; a top lens coated with a second coated conductive layer, the top lens being secured to the bottom lens; an auto-shading material embedded between the bottom lens and the top lens, the auto-shading material comprising discrete substructures that change in alignment in response to an electric field to change at least one of transmittance and emission color through the outer lens; and a wire electrically coupled to the automatic shading material; and a controller electrically coupled to the wire, the controller configured to direct a switching voltage to the switch to change a state of the switch, thereby causing the wire to transmit the electric field to the discrete substructure to change at least one of the transmittance and the emission color through the external lens.

2. The vehicle according to claim 1, wherein: The automatic light-shielding material includes a filmless automatic light-shielding material. 3 . The vehicle of claim 1 , wherein the top lens is secured to the bottom lens via one or more sealing covers. The vehicle of claim 1 , wherein the top lens and the bottom lens comprise a light-transmitting material.

5. The vehicle according to claim 1, wherein The top lens includes a light-transmitting material, and the bottom lens includes a light-impermeable material. 6 . The vehicle of claim 1 , wherein the automatic light-shielding material has a first transmittance when the switch is in a first state, and has a second transmittance greater than the first transmittance when the switch is in a second state.

7. The vehicle according to claim 1, wherein When the switch is in a first state, the outer lens emits a first color, and when the switch is in a second state, the outer lens emits a second color that is different from the first color.

8. A lens, comprising: a bottom lens coated with a first coated conductive layer; a top lens coated with a second coated conductive layer, the top lens being secured to the bottom lens; an auto-shading material embedded between the bottom lens and the top lens, the auto-shading material comprising discrete substructures that vary in alignment in response to an electric field to thereby change at least one of transmittance and emission color through the lenses; as well as A wire is electrically coupled to the auto-shading material.

9. The lens according to claim 8, wherein: The automatic light-shielding material includes a filmless automatic light-shielding material.

10. The lens according to claim 8, wherein The top lens and the bottom lens include a light-transmitting material.

Images