Panel assembly for a roof and roof for a vehicle

Abstract

The present invention relates to a panel assembly for a vehicle roof, comprising: a first panel element having a first main surface and a second main surface, the second main surface being opposite the first main surface in a stacking direction; a second plate element having a third main surface and a fourth main surface, the fourth main surface being opposite the third main surface in the stacking direction, the second plate element being coupled to the first plate element, the second plate element being configured as a plate-like light guide element, the light guide element is coupled to a light source and is designed to guide light fed from the light source and to provide the light for a predetermined illumination of the vehicle interior. Furthermore, the panel assembly comprises a first plastic layer arranged in the stacking direction between the first panel element and the second panel element and a first absorbent element arranged in the stacking direction between the first plastic layer and the second panel element.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to a panel assembly comprising a light-conducting element and to a vehicle having such a panel assembly. Background Art

[0002] Some motor vehicles have an integrated roof opening, which is closed with a cover, typically made of glass, to allow for a view from inside the vehicle. The cover can be removable, allowing for both viewing and ventilation as needed. Furthermore, some motor vehicles have lighting options at various locations within their interiors. For example, light guides are used in roof systems. Here, total internal reflection is used at the boundary layer between the light guide and the surrounding layer or air to retain the light within the light guide. Summary of the Invention

[0003] It is desirable to provide a component for a vehicle that improves the comfort level in the vehicle interior, in particular, the component is installed in the vehicle interior.

[0004] According to one embodiment, a panel assembly for a vehicle roof includes a first panel element having a first main surface and a second main surface, the second main surface being opposite the first main surface in a stacking direction. Furthermore, the panel assembly includes a second panel element having a third main surface and a fourth main surface, the fourth main surface being opposite the third main surface in the stacking direction, wherein the second panel element is coupled to the first panel element. Furthermore, the second panel element is configured as a plate-shaped light guide element that is coupled to a light source and is configured to guide light fed from the light source and provide the light for a predetermined illumination of the vehicle interior. Furthermore, the panel assembly includes a first plastic layer disposed between the first and second panel elements in the stacking direction, and a first absorber element disposed between the first plastic layer and the second panel element in the stacking direction.

[0005] The first, second, third and fourth main surfaces have a larger extent than the side surfaces of the first and second plate elements oriented transversely to the first, second, third and fourth main surfaces, respectively. The first plate element extends in a planar manner, and its extent along the first and second main surfaces is significantly greater than its extent transversely to the first and second main surfaces. The second plate element extends in a planar manner, and its extent along the third and fourth main surfaces is significantly greater than its extent transversely to the third and fourth main surfaces. The first and second plate elements are arranged in such a manner, with respect to the stacking direction, that the third main surface and the second main surface are oriented toward each other.

[0006] The stacking direction is defined such that it points from the side of the panel assembly facing outside the vehicle toward the side of the panel assembly facing inside the vehicle. For example, the stacking direction extends from the first main surface toward the fourth main surface. The area on the side of the panel assembly facing inside the vehicle is also referred to as the vehicle interior. The area on the side of the panel assembly facing outside the vehicle is also referred to as the exterior.

[0007] The first panel element can serve as an outer panel and constitute the outermost element, which, when installed in, for example, a vehicle roof, adjoins the exterior. Alternatively, one or more elements can cover the first panel element from above, so that it does not become the outermost element, but faces the exterior compared to the second panel element. Correspondingly, the second panel element can serve as an inner panel and constitute the innermost element, which, when installed in the vehicle roof, jointly delimits the vehicle interior. Alternatively, one or more elements can cover the second panel element from below, so that it does not become the innermost element, but faces the vehicle interior compared to the first panel element.

[0008] For example, the plastic layer between the two plate elements serves as a hot-melt adhesive layer in order to connect the first plate element and the second plate element to one another.

[0009] Light-guiding elements utilize the effect of total internal reflection to guide light and ensure illumination of the vehicle interior. This light is provided by a light source. For example, the light source is a light-emitting diode. Total internal reflection is a physical effect that occurs in the case of waves, such as light waves. Total internal reflection occurs when light is incident at a relatively flat angle on a boundary layer with another transparent medium having a smaller refractive index. The angle of incidence is defined as the angle between the light beam incident on the boundary layer and a perpendicular line perpendicular to the boundary layer. If the angle is less than the critical angle, the light beam is refracted away from the perpendicular line when incident on the boundary layer and transitions into the adjacent medium. If the angle is greater than the critical angle, total internal reflection occurs. The light no longer transitions largely into the other medium, but is essentially completely reflected into the original medium. The critical angle of total internal reflection is the angle at which the transition between total internal reflection and transmission into the adjacent medium occurs. Therefore, a light beam extending relatively flat relative to the plate surface is guided in the light guide element by repeated total internal reflection until it is coupled out, for example, by light scattering through an output coupling element. In this context, a light beam extending relatively flat relative to the plate surface is a light beam that extends at an angle between 0° and the critical angle relative to the boundary layer. The output coupling element either changes the angle of incidence so that light can be coupled out at the angle of incidence because the critical angle is not exceeded and the conditions for total internal reflection are no longer met. Alternatively, the output coupling element changes the refractive index of the adjacent medium so that the critical angle at which total internal reflection still occurs is shifted so that total internal reflection no longer occurs at a given angle of incidence of the light beam. The output coupling element itself can be part of the adjacent medium. For example, the light guide element is made of glass, polymethyl methacrylate and / or polycarbonate, or comprises such a material. In order to prevent color changes when passing through the light guide element, preferably, a material with neutral color absorption, such as glass with a low iron oxide content (English: low iron glas), is used.

[0010] At least one light source is used to illuminate the second plate element, and the light source is coupled to the second plate element via at least one coupling element, such as a prism. For example, the prism is mounted on the fourth main surface and couples light from the light source into the light-guiding element formed by the second plate element. For example, the area where the light source and the prism are arranged is an edge area of ​​the plate assembly. For example, the edge area extends in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle and can be arranged on a side in a transverse direction. The longitudinal direction of the vehicle extends from the rear window to the front window, as is common in vehicles that are ready for operation. Therefore, the coupling element can be arranged in the edge area of ​​the rear window, near the front window, or on a side in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle.

[0011] The first absorbing element serves to block light from the light source and is configured, for example, as an opaque layer. It is arranged between two plate elements. In particular, it is arranged between the first plastic layer and the second plate element. The first absorbing element is arranged in the area of ​​the light source and the prism. For example, the first absorbing element is a black, self-adhesive foil adhered to the third main surface in the area of ​​the light source and the prism. Thus, the first absorbing element can be arranged in the edge region of the rear window, near the front window, or on a side in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle.

[0012] The first absorption element prevents the light source from being visible from outside the vehicle. Furthermore, the first absorption element has the advantage that it at least reduces any light beam that could be unintentionally coupled out of the second plate element. Thus, the first absorption element can prevent the light beam from being unintentionally coupled out as it traverses further along the second plate element. This reduces or prevents, for example, unintentional illumination of layers located above the second plate element. In this context, layers located above the second plate element are layers located between the first and second plate elements in the stacking direction. In this way, the first absorption element also prevents unintentional outcoupling of light beams into layers located below the second plate element, thereby preventing unintentional illumination of the vehicle interior.

[0013] According to another embodiment, the plate assembly includes a second plastic layer and a switchable intermediate layer, wherein the second plastic layer is arranged between the first plastic layer and the second plate element in the stacking direction, and the switchable intermediate layer is arranged between the first plastic layer and the second plastic layer in the stacking direction, wherein the first absorption element is arranged between the second plastic layer and the second plate element in the stacking direction.

[0014] The switchable intermediate layer can be implemented as an intermediate layer that can be switched passively or actively. For example, the intermediate layer that can be actively switched includes electrochromic glass (EC), liquid crystal glass (LC), polymer dispersed liquid crystal glass (PDLC) and glass with a suspended particle composition (SPD). For example, thermochromic glass and photochromic glass belong to intermediate layers that can be passively switched. The board assembly is not limited to a glass board and includes, for example, a plastic board. For example, the switchable intermediate layer is an actively switchable foil that is composed of a suspended particle composition (English: Suspended Particle Device, SPD) and / or an electrochromic layer (EC) and / or a liquid crystal (English: Liquid Crystal, LC) and / or a polymer dispersed liquid crystal glass (Polymer dispersed liquid crystals, PDLC), or has such a material.

[0015] The plastic layer between the two panel elements serves as a hot melt adhesive layer to connect the first panel element and the second panel element to one another. The switchable intermediate layer enables the light transmission of the intermediate layer and thus of the entire panel assembly to be adjusted.

[0016] Additional layers may be provided on the main surface in order, for example, to improve shading or to fulfill other functions, such as temperature regulation in the vehicle interior or to improve the visual appearance.

[0017] According to at least one embodiment, the first plastic layer and / or the second plastic layer is designed as a layer of polyvinyl butyral or comprises such a material.

[0018] For example, the switchable intermediate layer is embedded in a plastic layer which, for example, consists of polyvinyl butyral (PVB) and / or ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) and / or thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO) and / or polyolefin (PO) and / or thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) or comprises such materials.

[0019] Alternatively or additionally, a frame is arranged around the switchable intermediate layer. The frame is located between the first and second panel elements in the stacking direction. The switchable intermediate layer is smaller than the dimensions of the two panel elements. Accordingly, the switchable intermediate layer does not extend to the edge regions of the two panel elements. The frame is used to avoid or compensate for height differences along the panel assembly in the edge regions of the panel elements. The frame can be made of the same material as the two plastic layers. For example, the frame can be made of or comprise polyvinyl butyral (PVB) and / or ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) and / or thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO) and / or polyolefin (PO) and / or thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU). The optical properties of the frame play a secondary role, as the frame is obscured by the darkly colored portion of the first absorber element in the edge regions of the panel elements and is therefore not visible from the vehicle interior. Furthermore, when viewed from a light source in the stacking direction, the frame is obscured by the first absorber element.

[0020] According to one embodiment, the first absorption element comprises a carrier material and an adhesive layer.

[0021] The treated surface faces the first panel element, and the adhesive layer faces the second panel element. A carrier material is arranged between the treated surface and the adhesive layer in the stacking direction. For example, the carrier material is a black tape or a black foil. For example, the first absorbent element is a black self-adhesive foil whose top side is suitably treated for improved adhesion to the plastic layer.

[0022] According to another embodiment, the first absorption element comprises a treated surface, which is a corona-treated surface and / or a flame-treated surface and / or a surface treated with a primer and / or a surface treated with an adhesion promoter.

[0023] According to another embodiment, the adhesive layer comprises a pressure-sensitive adhesive and / or an optically transparent adhesive.

[0024] The carrier material can be suitably attached to the third main surface by means of a first absorbing element provided with a pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA) and / or an optically clear or transparent adhesive (OCA). The adhesive layer enables light to be guided in the light-conducting element in the region of the first absorbing element without the light beam being absorbed by the first absorbing element due to the black coloring.

[0025] According to another embodiment, the refractive index of the adhesive layer is greater than or equal to the refractive index of the second plastic layer.

[0026] Advantageously, the refractive index of the adhesive layer is equal to the refractive index of the adjacent second plastic layer. In this case, the conditions for total reflection within the second plate element in the region of the first absorption element are the same as the conditions in the region where the second plastic layer directly abuts the second plate element. Light beams that are totally reflected at the boundary layer between the second plate element and the second plastic layer behave identically in the region of the first absorption element. The boundary layer between the second plate element and the second plastic layer has the same transition as the boundary layer between the second plate element and the adhesive layer because the refractive index of the adhesive layer and the second plastic layer are the same. If the refractive index of the adhesive layer is greater than the refractive index of the second plastic layer, the critical angle at the boundary layer between the second plate element and the adhesive layer is greater than the critical angle at the boundary layer between the second plate element and the second plastic layer. Correspondingly, in the region of the first absorption element, only light beams with incident angles that would also be totally reflected in regions without the first absorption element are totally reflected. Consequently, no unintentional outcoupling of light beams occurs at the boundary layer between the second plate element and the second plastic layer. For example, the refractive index of the adhesive layer corresponds to the refractive index of the second plastic layer, which can be composed of polyvinyl butyral (PVB). Alternatively, the refractive index of the adhesive layer is greater than the refractive index of the second plastic layer, which can be composed of polyvinyl butyral (PVB).

[0027] Advantageously, the first absorption element can be used to influence the angle of light from the light source, which is reflected at the first absorption element and / or the adhesive layer and is then reflected at the fourth main surface toward the switchable intermediate layer, so that total internal reflection occurs within the second pane element. Light reflected by the fourth main surface is reflected toward the third main surface and remains in the second pane element. This prevents unintentional outcoupling of light. This prevents illumination of the switchable intermediate layer, which is implemented, for example, as a PDLC and diffusely scatters light.

[0028] According to another embodiment, the first absorption element extends in a transverse direction and has a first overlapping region with the switchable intermediate layer in the transverse direction.

[0029] The transverse direction is perpendicular to the stacking direction and extends along the main surfaces of the two plate elements.The overlapping region improves the overall aesthetic impression of the plate assembly, wherein the first absorption element covers the transition between the frame and the switchable intermediate layer.

[0030] According to another embodiment, the black print extends in a transverse direction on the second main surface and has a second overlapping area with the switchable intermediate layer in the transverse direction, wherein the second overlapping area is larger in the transverse direction than the first overlapping area.

[0031] The black print on the second main surface serves to block light from the light source. Together, the black print and the first absorbing element (which is, for example, an opaque layer) provide improved light blocking when viewing the vehicle interior from outside the vehicle. Furthermore, the black print on the second main surface can better conceal vehicle components in the roof area, thereby achieving a more aesthetically pleasing appearance.

[0032] The black print on the second major surface has a greater extent in the lateral direction. When viewed in the stacking direction, the black print conceals the underlying first absorber element. This improves the aesthetic appearance when viewed from the vehicle exterior into the vehicle interior.

[0033] According to another embodiment, the plate assembly comprises a second absorption element, which is arranged on the fourth major surface.

[0034] The second absorption element is arranged on the fourth main surface in the region of the first absorption element close to the edge of the switchable intermediate layer. For example, the second absorption element is a black structure that can absorb light reflected therefrom toward the switchable intermediate layer.

[0035] The second absorption element enhances the effect of absorbing and / or suitably reflecting light beams reflected at an angle smaller than the critical angle for total reflection, so that the angle of incidence of the light beams still satisfies the conditions for total reflection.

[0036] According to another embodiment, the second absorption element comprises a black print and / or an absorbing adhesive and / or a primer.

[0037] For example, the second absorption element is formed as a black glaze or a black print. Alternatively or additionally, the second absorption element is a glued foil. Alternatively or additionally, the second absorption element includes an adhesive layer, a carrier material, and / or a treated surface. The adhesive layer faces the fourth main surface and is arranged between the carrier material of the second absorption element and the second plate element. For example, the adhesive layer includes a pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA) and / or an optically transparent adhesive (OCA). For example, the refractive index of the adhesive layer of the second absorption element is less than or equal to the refractive index of the second plastic layer. For example, the refractive index of the adhesive layer of the second absorption element is less than or equal to the refractive index of polyvinyl butyral. In this way, light beams with an incident angle less than the critical angle are absorbed by the second absorption element. As a result, light beams whose incident angles are not totally reflected at the boundary layer between the second plate element and the second plastic layer are less reflected into the second plastic layer located above.

[0038] Alternatively or additionally, the second absorption element can be designed as a primer.

[0039] According to one embodiment, the second absorption element is structured in the form of dots and / or lines, thereby absorbing less light.

[0040] The structuring of the second absorption element prevents excessive light absorption and reduces shadowing of the desired light guidance. Furthermore, it reduces potential shadows that may occur in the switchable intermediate layer. For example, the structuring may include structures in the form of dots, lines, or similar structures, thereby absorbing less light.

[0041] According to one embodiment, the plate assembly comprises a coating reflecting infrared beams, which is arranged on the second main surface.

[0042] Thus, while light radiation can pass through the first plate element and underlying layers and elements, thermal radiation is reflected to the outside. This reflected heat reduces the heat input into the vehicle interior. This allows the vehicle interior to achieve a brightness comparable to that of daylight, while minimizing the temperature rise in the vehicle interior due to thermal radiation from sunlight. For example, the infrared-reflecting coating may be made of silver or comprise such a material.

[0043] The first plate element is, for example, a transparent glass plate, so that an infrared-reflecting coating on the second main surface can be utilized and reflect infrared radiation. Alternatively or additionally, the second plate element is also a transparent glass plate, so that similar bending properties as the first plate element are achieved during furnace manufacturing. Alternatively or additionally, the plate element can be tinted. Alternatively or additionally, polycarbonate plates and / or polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) plates can be used.

[0044] According to one embodiment, the panel assembly includes a wavelength selective A coating, the wavelength selective coating having low emissivity is disposed on the fourth major surface.

[0045] For example, a wavelength-selective coating with low emissivity (Low-E), also known as a Low-E layer, can be constructed as a metal oxide layer. The Low-E layer reduces the total energy entering the vehicle interior by reducing the emission of energy absorbed by dark-colored PVB and / or glass. For example, indium tin oxide (ITO) is used as the material for the Low-E layer. This material reflects infrared radiation, particularly infrared radiation in the wavelength range greater than 1400 nm. To improve the transmittance and durability of the Low-E layer, a silver coating is embedded in the oxide layer, for example. For example, at cold outdoor temperatures in winter, the Low-E layer reduces heat losses due to thermal radiation, thereby saving energy during vehicle operation. At higher outdoor temperatures, such as in summer, the Low-E layer reduces the total transmitted solar energy (TTS) entering the vehicle interior because it emits less of the absorbed energy.

[0046] According to another aspect, a vehicle roof includes one configuration of the panel assembly described above and a cover member coupled to the panel assembly and configured to close an opening in the vehicle roof. For example, the cover member may be configured as a glass cover member, with the panel assembly forming a portion or section of the cover member. Alternatively, the panel assembly may fully constitute the cover member.

[0047] The cover can be fixed in the opening in the vehicle roof or can be designed to be movable relative to the vehicle roof in order to release the roof opening when required. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0048] In the following, embodiments of the present disclosure are explained in more detail based on the schematic drawings.

[0049] The accompanying drawings show:

[0050] Figure 1A schematic diagram showing a portion of a vehicle according to one embodiment,

[0051] Figures 2 to 4 Schematic diagrams of plate assemblies according to embodiments are respectively shown.

[0052] Elements of the same structure and of the same function are marked with the same reference numerals throughout the figures. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0053] In this description, terms such as "upper", "lower", "upper side", "lower side", "inner" and "outer", "front" and "rear" relate to the orientation and alignment as shown in the drawings and as is customary in a motor vehicle in a state ready for operation.

[0054] Figure 1 A panel assembly 1 for a roof 101 of a vehicle 101 is shown. The panel assembly 1, for example, implements a cover 102 in the vehicle roof 101 that is configured to close a vehicle opening 103 in the vehicle roof 101. The panel assembly 1 may constitute a portion or section of the cover 102 or, alternatively, may completely implement the cover. Furthermore, the vehicle 100 includes a rear window panel 104 and a front window panel 105. A vehicle longitudinal direction F1 extends from the rear window panel 104 to the front window panel 105.

[0055] Figure 2 An exemplary embodiment of a panel assembly 1 is shown in a schematic side view. Panel assembly 1 initially comprises a first panel element 10 along stacking direction S1. In the operationally ready state, first panel element 10 is arranged facing outward and away from the interior of vehicle 100. First panel element 10 comprises a first main surface 11 and an oppositely arranged second main surface 12. In the operationally ready state, first main surface 11 faces outward. In the operationally ready state, second main surface 12 faces the interior of vehicle 100. Second main surface 12 is arranged opposite first main surface 11 along stacking direction S1. Panel assembly 1 comprises a second panel element 20. Second panel element 20 comprises a third main surface 21 and a fourth main surface 22. Third main surface 21 faces first panel element 10. Fourth main surface 22 is arranged opposite third main surface 21 along stacking direction S1. First panel element 10 and second panel element 20 are arranged in stacking direction S1 such that third main surface 21 and second main surface 12 are oriented toward each other.

[0056] The four main surfaces 11, 12, 21, 22 are arranged in the same direction and spaced apart from one another. In particular, the four main surfaces 11, 12, 21, 22 are arranged parallel to one another within conventional tolerances. For example, the two plate elements 10, 20 extend substantially along the transverse direction L1. However, the plate elements 10, 20 may also have a curvature along the transverse direction L1.

[0057] For example, the first plate element 10 and the second plate element are transparent glass plates. Alternatively or additionally, the plate elements 10, 20 may be tinted. Alternatively or additionally, polycarbonate plates and / or polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) plates are used.

[0058] Arranged along the stacking direction S1 are first the first plate element 10 , then the first plastic layer 60 , then the switchable intermediate layer 80 , and then the second plastic layer 70 . Then, along the stacking direction S1 , the second plate element 20 is arranged.

[0059] The first plate element 10 and the second plate element 20 are coupled to each other by means of plastic layers 60 , 70 . For example, the first plastic layer 60 and / or the second plastic layer 70 are designed as layers made of polyvinyl butyral (PVB) or comprise such a material. The two plastic layers 60 , 70 serve as hot-melt adhesive layers to connect the first plate element 10 and the second plate element 20 to each other. For example, a frame 65 is arranged around the switchable intermediate layer 80 . The frame 65 is located between the first plate element 10 and the second plate element 20 along the stacking direction S1 . The dimensions of the switchable intermediate layer 80 are smaller than those of the two plate elements 10 , 20 . Accordingly, the switchable intermediate layer 80 does not extend to the edges of the two plate elements 10 , 20 . The frame 65 is provided to avoid height differences along the plate assembly 1 at the edges of the plate elements 10 , 20 . The frame 65 can consist of the same material as the two plastic layers 60 , 70 . For example, the frame 65 is made of polyvinyl butyral (PVB) and / or ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) and / or thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO) and / or polyolefin (PO) and / or thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) or comprises such a material. The optical properties of the frame 65 play a secondary role, since the frame 65 is concealed in the edge region of the two plate elements 10 , 20 by the black print 30 and the dark coloring of the first absorption element 40 and is therefore not visible from the vehicle interior and from outside the vehicle 100 . Figure 2 In the embodiment, plastic layers 60 and 70 composed of, for example, gray polyvinyl butyral are used and arranged above and below a switchable intermediate layer 80, which includes, for example, a PDLC layer. The PDLC layer can be, for example, black or white, but is not limited to these two colors. This allows the entire panel assembly 1 to have a uniform appearance, for example, dark gray, both from the vehicle interior and from outside the vehicle 100, thereby improving its visual appearance.

[0060] A switchable intermediate layer 80 is embedded between the two plastic layers 60 , 70 . The switchable intermediate layer 80 is constructed, for example, from a suspended particle device (SPD) and / or liquid crystals (LC) and / or polymer dispersed liquid crystals (PDLC) or comprises such materials. The switchable intermediate layer 80 thus represents a sunshade device that offers the possibility of comfortably darkening the vehicle interior and / or varying the light transmittance through the pane assembly 1 , for example by increasing light scattering.

[0061] The second plate element 20 serves as a plate-shaped light-guiding element 25. For example, a transparent glass plate (e.g., white glass or clear glass) is used as the light-guiding element 25. Alternatively or additionally, a transparent plastic plate can be used. The light-guiding element 25 is coupled to the light source 80 via a coupling-in element 50. For example, the coupling-in element 50 is a prism and is directly abutted against the fourth main surface 22 and / or arranged on the fourth main surface 22 by means of an adhesive. For example, the coupling-in element 50 is arranged in the edge region of the second plate element 22. The light-guiding element 25 can guide the light fed in from the light source 80. Instead of adhesive, other coupling elements (e.g., optical oil) are also possible. Instead of a prism on the fourth main surface 22, light coupling-in can be achieved from the side connecting the third and fourth main surfaces 21, 22. Alternatively, an LED can be inserted via a recess in the light-guiding element 25 to achieve a light source 80 that couples light into the light-guiding element 25. Another alternative to the coupling-in element 50 is achieved by vertical light coupling-in on the fourth main surface 22 and corresponding deflection and scattering elements on the third main surface 21. Figure 2 , light is shown by way of example with the aid of a single light beam, which is shown as a dashed line. Thus, a predetermined illumination of the vehicle interior is ensured.

[0062] The first absorbing element 40 is also arranged in the edge region of the panel assembly 1. The first absorbing element 40 is arranged in the stacking direction S1 between the second plastic layer 70 and the second panel element 20. The first absorbing element 40 is arranged in the region of the light source 80 and the prism 50. For example, the first absorbing element 40 is a black self-adhesive foil that is adhered to the third main surface 21 in the region of the light source 80 and the prism 50.

[0063] The first absorption element 40 prevents the light source 80 from being visible from outside the vehicle. Furthermore, the first absorption element 40 has the advantage that it at least reduces any light beam that could be unintentionally coupled out of the second plate element 20. Thus, the first absorption element 40 can prevent the light beam from being unintentionally coupled out as it traverses further along the second plate element 20. This reduces or prevents unintended illumination of layers located above the second plate element 20, for example. Layers located above the second plate element 20 include, for example, the second plastic layer 70, the switchable intermediate layer 80, the first plastic layer 60, and / or the first plate element 10. Furthermore, further layers (not shown here) may be present.

[0064] In this way, the first absorption element 40 also prevents unintentional outcoupling of light radiation into the layer situated beneath the second plate element 20 , thereby preventing undesired illumination of the vehicle interior.

[0065] The first absorption element 40 comprises a treated surface 41, a carrier material 42, and an adhesive layer 43. The treated surface 42 faces the first panel element 10, and the adhesive layer 43 faces the second panel element 20. The carrier material 42 is arranged between the treated surface 41 and the adhesive layer 43 in the stacking direction S1. The carrier material 42 is, for example, a black tape or a black foil. For example, the first absorption element 40 is a black, self-adhesive foil, the top side of which has been treated in a suitable manner to improve adhesion to the first or second plastic layer 60, 70. The treated surface 41 can be, for example, a corona-treated surface, a flame-treated surface, and / or a surface treated with a primer. This treatment can be achieved, for example, by plasma coating with an aminosilane-based adhesion promoter (e.g., 3-[2-(2-aminoethylamino)-ethylamino]-propyltrimethoxysilane) or other adhesion promoter. Adhesive layer 43 comprises a pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA) and / or an optically clear adhesive (OCA). The first absorption element 40, which is provided with a pressure-sensitive adhesive and / or an optically clear or transparent adhesive, allows carrier material 42 to be suitably attached to third major surface 21. Adhesive layer 43 enables light to be guided within light-conducting element 25 in the region of first absorption element 40 without the light beam being absorbed by first absorption element 40 due to the black coloring. The refractive index of adhesive layer 43 is greater than or equal to that of second plastic layer 70. If only one plastic layer is present, the refractive index of adhesive layer 43 is greater than or equal to that of first plastic layer 60. Generally, the refractive index of adhesive layer 43 is greater than or equal to that of the adjacent plastic layer. Advantageously, the refractive index of adhesive layer 43 is equal to that of the adjacent second plastic layer 70. In this case, the conditions for achieving total internal reflection within second panel element 20 in the region of first absorption element 40 are the same as those in the region where second plastic layer 70 directly abuts second panel element 20. The light beam that is totally reflected at the boundary layer between the second plate element 20 and the second plastic layer 70 behaves approximately the same way in the region of the first absorber element 40. The boundary layer between the second plate element 20 and the second plastic layer 70 has the same transition as the boundary layer between the second plate element 20 and the adhesive layer 43 because the refractive index of the adhesive layer 43 is the same as the refractive index of the second plastic layer 70. If the refractive index of the adhesive layer 43 is greater than that of the second plastic layer 70, the critical angle at the boundary layer between the second plate element 20 and the adhesive layer 43 is greater than the critical angle at the boundary layer between the second plate element 20 and the second plastic layer 70. Correspondingly, in the region of the first absorber element 40, only light beams with incident angles that would also be totally reflected in regions without the first absorber element 40 are totally reflected.As a result, no unintentional outcoupling of light beams occurs at the boundary layer between the second panel element 20 and the second plastic layer 70. For example, the refractive index of the adhesive layer 43 corresponds to the refractive index of the second plastic layer 70, which can be composed of polyvinyl butyral (PVB). Alternatively, the refractive index of the adhesive layer 43 is greater than the refractive index of the second plastic layer 70, which can be composed of polyvinyl butyral (PVB), for example. The first absorption element 40 extends along the transverse direction L1 and has a first overlap region U1 with the switchable intermediate layer 80 along the transverse direction L1. The transverse direction L1 is perpendicular to the stacking direction S1 and extends essentially along the main surfaces 11, 12, 21, 22 of the two panel elements 10, 20. The first overlap region U1 improves the overall aesthetic appearance of the panel assembly 1, wherein the first absorption element 40 covers the transition between the frame 65 and the switchable intermediate layer 80.

[0066] The black print 30 also extends in the transverse direction L1 and is arranged on the second main surface 12. The black print 30 has a second overlapping area U2 with the switchable intermediate layer 80 in the transverse direction L1, wherein the second overlapping area U2 is larger than the first overlapping area U1 in the transverse direction L1.

[0067] The black print 30 and the first absorber element 40 (which is configured, for example, as an opaque layer) together provide improved light shielding when viewing the vehicle interior from outside the vehicle 100. Furthermore, the black print 30 on the second major surface 12 can better conceal components of the vehicle 100 in the roof edge region, thereby providing a more aesthetically pleasing appearance. Viewed along the stacking direction S1, the black print 30 conceals the underlying first absorber element 40.

[0068] Figure 3 A further embodiment of a plate assembly 1 is shown in a schematic sectional view. Figure 2The pane assembly 1 is identical except for the following: the pane assembly 1 includes a second absorption element 45, which is arranged on the fourth major surface 22. The second absorption element 45 is arranged in the region of the first absorption element 40, near the edge of the switchable intermediate layer 80, and extends along the transverse direction L1. For example, the second absorption element 45 is a black structure that absorbs light reflected therefrom toward the switchable intermediate layer 80. The second absorption element 45 enhances the effect of absorbing and / or appropriately reflecting light beams reflected at angles less than the critical angle for total internal reflection, so that the angle of incidence of the light beam still meets the conditions for total internal reflection. For example, the second absorption element 45 is formed as a black glaze or a black print. The second absorption element 45 is constructed similarly to the black print 30. Alternatively or additionally, the second absorption element 45 is a glued-on foil. Alternatively or additionally, the second absorption element 45 includes an adhesive layer, a carrier material, and / or a treated surface. The adhesive layer faces the fourth major surface 22 and is arranged between the carrier material of the second absorption element 45 and the second plate element 20. For example, the adhesive layer comprises a pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA) and / or an optically transparent adhesive (OCA). For example, the refractive index of the adhesive layer of the second absorption element 45 is less than or equal to the refractive index of the second plastic layer 70. For example, the refractive index of the adhesive layer of the second absorption element 45 is less than or equal to the refractive index of polyvinyl butyral. In this way, light beams with an incident angle less than the critical angle are absorbed by the second absorption element 45. As a result, light beams whose incident angles do not result in total reflection at the boundary layer between the second plate element 20 and the second plastic layer 70 are less reflected into the upper second plastic layer 70. Alternatively or additionally, the second absorption element 45 can be configured as a primer.

[0069] The second absorption element 45 can be structured, thereby absorbing less light. Thus, the structured portion of the second absorption element 45 prevents excessive light absorption and reduces obstruction of the desired light guidance. Furthermore, potential shadows that may be generated in the switchable intermediate layer 80 are reduced. For example, the structured portion may include structures in the form of dots, lines, or similar structures, thereby absorbing less light.

[0070] Figure 4 A further embodiment of a plate assembly 1 is shown in a schematic sectional view. Figure 3The panel assembly in FIG. 1 is identical except for the following difference: panel assembly 1 includes an infrared-reflecting coating 90 disposed on second major surface 12. While infrared-reflecting coating 90 allows light radiation to pass through first panel element 10 and underlying layers and components, thermal radiation is reflected to the exterior. This reflected heat therefore reduces heat input into the vehicle interior. This allows the vehicle interior to achieve a brightness comparable to that of daylight, while minimizing the temperature rise in the vehicle interior due to thermal radiation from sunlight. For example, infrared-reflecting coating 90 may be formed from silver or comprise such a material.

[0071] Furthermore, the pane assembly 1 includes a wavelength-selective coating 95 with low emissivity, which is disposed on the fourth major surface 22. For example, the wavelength-selective coating 95 with low emissivity (Low-E), also referred to as a Low-E layer, can be configured as a metal oxide layer. The Low-E layer 95 reduces the total energy entering the vehicle interior by reducing the emission of energy absorbed by the pane assembly 1, particularly by the plastic layers 60 , 70 and / or the pane elements 10 , 20 . For example, indium tin oxide (ITO) is used as the material for the Low-E layer 95. This material reflects infrared radiation, particularly infrared radiation in the wavelength range greater than 1400 nm. To increase the transmittance and durability of the Low-E layer 95 , for example, a silver coating is embedded in the oxide layer. For example, in cold winter outdoor temperatures, the Low-E layer reduces heat losses due to thermal radiation, thereby saving energy during vehicle operation. At higher outdoor temperatures, such as in summer, the Low-E layer 95 reduces the total transmitted solar energy (TTS) into the vehicle interior because it emits less of the absorbed energy. The area of ​​the second panel element 20 where the prisms 50 are mounted does not have the Low-E layer 95. Alternatively or additionally, the area of ​​the second panel element 20 where the second absorption element 45 is mounted also does not have the Low-E layer 95.

[0072] Any combination of the infrared-reflecting coating 90, the Low-E layer 95, the first absorption element 40, and the second absorption element 45 is possible. The panel assembly 1 also includes the combination of the infrared-reflecting coating 90, the Low-E layer 95, and the first absorption element 40, but does not include the second absorption element 45.

[0073] For the sake of clarity, the dimensional ratios of the individual components do not correspond to the actual dimensional ratios of the plate assembly 1 .

[0074] Reference Signs List

[0075] 1 board assembly

[0076] 10 First plate element

[0077] 11 first main surface

[0078] 12 Second main surface

[0079] 20 Second plate element

[0080] 21 third main surface

[0081] 22 fourth main surface

[0082] 25 Light guide element

[0083] 26 Light Source

[0084] 30 Black Printing Department

[0085] 40 first absorption element

[0086] 41 Treated surface

[0087] 42 Carrier Materials

[0088] 43 Adhesive layer

[0089] 50 Coupling input element

[0090] 60 First plastic layer

[0091] 70 Second plastic layer

[0092] 80 Switchable middle layer

[0093] 90 Coating that reflects infrared radiation

[0094] 95 Wavelength Selective Coating

[0095] 100 vehicles

[0096] 101 Roof

[0097] 102 cover

[0098] 103 Vehicle opening

[0099] 104 front window panel

[0100] 105 rear window panel

[0101] S1 stacking direction

[0102] L1 Horizontal direction

[0103] F1 car longitudinal direction.

Claims

1. A panel assembly (1) for a vehicle roof (101), the panel assembly comprising: a first plate element (10) having a first main surface (11) and a second main surface (12), the second main surface being opposite the first main surface (11) along the stacking direction (S1); a second plate element (20), the second plate element having a third main surface (21) and a fourth main surface (22), the fourth main surface being opposite the third main surface (21) along the stacking direction (S1), wherein the second plate element (20) is coupled to the first plate element (10), and wherein the second plate element (20) is designed as a plate-shaped light-conducting element (25), which is coupled to a light source (80) and is designed to guide light fed from the light source (80) and to provide the light for a predetermined illumination of the vehicle interior; - a first plastic layer (60) arranged between the first plate element (10) and the second plate element (20) in the stacking direction (S1); and A first absorption element (40) is arranged between the first plastic layer (60) and the second plate element (20) in the stacking direction (S1).

2. The plate assembly (1) according to claim 1, comprising: a second plastic layer (70) arranged in the stacking direction (S1) between the first plastic layer (60) and the second plate element (20); and a switchable intermediate layer (80) arranged in the stacking direction (S1) between the first plastic layer (60) and the second plastic layer (70), wherein the first absorption element (40) is arranged in the stacking direction (S1) between the second plastic layer (70) and the second plate element (20).

3. The plate assembly (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The first plastic layer (60) and / or the second plastic layer (70) are designed as layers of polyvinyl butyral or comprise such a material.

4. A plate assembly (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The first absorption element (40) comprises: - a carrier material (42), and - Adhesive layer (43).

5. A plate assembly (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein The first absorption element (40) comprises a treated surface (41), which is a corona-treated surface and / or a flame-treated surface and / or a surface treated with a primer and / or a surface treated with an adhesion promoter.

6. Plate assembly (1) according to claim 4 or 5, wherein The adhesive layer (43) comprises a pressure-sensitive adhesive material and / or an optically transparent adhesive material.

7. A plate assembly (1) according to any one of claims 4 to 6, wherein The refractive index of the adhesive layer (43) is greater than or equal to the refractive index of the second plastic layer (70).

8. A plate assembly (1) according to any one of claims 2 to 7, wherein The first absorption element (40) extends along a transverse direction (L1) and has a first overlapping region (U1) with the switchable intermediate layer (80) along the transverse direction (L1).

9. A plate assembly (1) according to any one of claims 2 to 8, wherein The black printed portion (30) extends along a transverse direction (L1) on the second main surface (12) and has a second overlapping area (U2) with the switchable intermediate layer (80) along the transverse direction (L1), wherein the second overlapping area (U2) is larger than the first overlapping area (U1) along the transverse direction (L1).

10. Plate assembly (1) according to any of the preceding claims, comprising a second absorption element (45) arranged on the fourth main surface (22).

11. The plate assembly (1) according to claim 10, wherein The second absorbing element (45) comprises a black print and / or an absorbing adhesive and / or a primer.

12. Plate assembly (1) according to claim 10 or 11, wherein The second absorption element (45) is structured in the form of dots and / or lines, thereby absorbing less light.

13. The panel assembly (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a coating (90) reflecting infrared radiation, which is arranged on the second main surface (12).

14. The panel assembly (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a wavelength selective coating (95) with low emissivity, the wavelength selective coating with low emissivity being arranged on the fourth main surface (22).

15. A roof (101) for a vehicle (100), the roof comprising: - A plate assembly (1) according to any one of the preceding claims; and A cover (102) configured to close a vehicle opening (103) in the vehicle roof (101), wherein the cover (102) comprises the panel assembly (1).

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