Illuminable laminated glazing for vehicles

Abstract

The invention relates to an illuminable glazing unit (100) for a vehicle, comprising an outer glass pane (1), an inner pane (2), a laminated interlayer (3) and a peripheral masking layer (4). The outer edge face is indented from the first edge face on at least one first edge, called offset outer edge, by r1. It comprises a peripheral seal (8) which is an opaque polymer encapsulation of the edge face of the glazing, framing the laminated glazing, and a peripheral opaque element extending the encapsulation and / or connected to the laminated interlayer in the area of the offset outer edge, between the outer edge face and the first edge face.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to illuminateable laminated vehicle windows, particularly vehicle sunroofs, which can be illuminated through light guiding and light extraction for interior ambient lighting. Background Technology

[0002] Illuminated skylights are known to be laminated glass windows having one or more light sources optically coupled to an inner glass panel. The light sources are blocked from the outside by a black enamel shielding layer on a main surface of the inner glass panel. Light-extracting layers on the inner glass panel form, for example, patterns. These patterns are illuminated by extracting light introduced into the inner glass panel, thus producing a highly aesthetic visual effect, especially at night and when viewed from inside the passenger cabin.

[0003] Unfortunately, these illuminated sunroofs also display ambient light visible from outside the vehicle. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The object of the present invention is therefore particularly to provide an illuminated vehicle window that reduces and even eliminates this parasitic luminescence effect at the edges of the window.

[0005] Therefore, the present invention proposes an illuminateable laminated glass window for vehicles, comprising a (curved) laminated glass window with edge surfaces. The laminated glass window comprises: an outer glass panel having a first edge surface (particularly exposed, i.e., without a coating and / or adhesive layer, optionally polished, flat, preferably rounded edge surface) and a first main surface called surface F1 and a second main surface called surface F2; an inner transparent panel (preferably ultra-clear glass) having a second edge surface (particularly exposed, i.e., without a coating and / or adhesive layer, optionally polished, flat, preferably rounded edge surface, particularly similar to the first edge surface), an outer main surface (particularly a third main surface F3) oriented toward surface F2 called surface Fa, and an opposing inner main surface (Fb is the innermost main surface of the glass window, particularly a fourth main surface F4) called Fb; a laminated interlayer located between surface F2 and surface Fa, having so-called interlayer edge surfaces; and a peripheral shielding layer located on surface F2, which is a coating (printed, particularly screen-printed), having an inner edge surface and an outer edge surface located between surface F2 and Fa.

[0006] The outer edge face is indented by r1 from the first edge face at at least one first edge (referred to as the offset outer edge), and is the same on all edges. The indentation r1 is similar on each edge (the difference in r1 is at most 0.2 mm).

[0007] The illuminateable laminated glass window according to the invention includes a peripheral seal, which is an opaque polymer encapsulation of the edge face of the glass window, framing the laminated glass window (in contact with the edge face of the glass window and / or through an adhesive primer, optionally opaque, particularly black, especially on the second and first edge faces). The encapsulation and / or peripheral opaque element (absorbent and / or reflective) connected to the laminate extends in each of the offset outer edges, between the outer edge face and the first edge face.

[0008] Due to reasons related to the methods used to manufacture laminated glass windows (such as skylights) in the prior art, the enamel coating is recessed by r1 by several mm, while the second edge face is offset relative to the first edge face on multiple edges, typically by a maximum of 1 mm.

[0009] The applicant has discovered that this causes light leaving the second edge surface to propagate (by refraction and / or reflection and / or scattering) along a path near the first edge surface, particularly in the recessed region of width r1, or even in the circular region if the first edge surface is rounded.

[0010] Therefore, the lighting windows in the prior art cause light to leak around the perimeter instead of being guided and extracted and made visible only inside the window, thus producing light visible from outside the vehicle.

[0011] In the glass window according to the invention, the encapsulation and / or opaque element connected to the laminated interlayer serves as a barrier (partially or entirely) against light that may escape from the periphery of the glass window. In particular, surface Fa is located upstream of the recessed region r1, or even surface Fa (or the circular portion of the second rounded edge surface) is separated from region r1 by opaque devices (i.e., encapsulation and / or peripheral opaque elements).

[0012] When face Fa (F3) is located downstream of the outer edge face (and / or the circular portion of the second edge face), and the interlayer edge face is recessed from the first edge face, there is a risk that one or more air bubbles may exist in the encapsulation material and form a light bridge between the inner and outer glass plates in the absence of an opaque element connected to the interlayer. Furthermore, in the absence of an opaque element, when the interlayer edge face is recessed from the first edge face, particularly aligned with or recessed from the outer edge face by R (e.g., up to 5 mm or 3 mm), it is preferable that the second edge face is aligned with or recessed from the outer edge face (r2), for example, up to 10 mm, 5 mm, or 3 mm. In particular, it is preferable that the second edge face is recessed from the interlayer edge face, especially by up to 5 mm or 3 mm. This facilitates the escape of air bubbles.

[0013] Preferably, for simplicity, the laminated glass window has only two panels, so Fa is face F3 and Fb is face F4. Alternatively, there are three panels (the middle panel is preferably made of glass), with Fa being face F5 and Fb being face F6.

[0014] With this invention, the second edge surface can be exposed (simply shaped, especially rounded or even polished) before encapsulation, without the need to cover it with an opaque reflective or light-absorbing layer (paint, double-sided reflector, etc.), which is a cumbersome and complex operation on an industrial scale. However, an opaque encapsulation primer (carbon black, etc.) can be used, which also contributes to the barrier effect, although this alone is not sufficient.

[0015] Regarding the peripheral opaque elements, it is preferable that they are connected by a sandwich structure rather than by deposits on surfaces such as F2, thereby avoiding the application of solutions (slurries) on surfaces F2 and / or the second edge surfaces that may overflow and prolong manufacturing time, which is almost incompatible with industrial requirements.

[0016] Glass windows may be without peripheral opaque elements (connected to the intermediate layer), especially on at least three (offset) outer edge areas or even all (offset) outer edge areas, particularly for economic reasons.

[0017] In existing skylights, stray light may be stronger at one or more edges than at others. This light can be continuous or point-like. Naturally, the arrangement of the enclosure and / or surrounding opaque elements is preferably applied to multiple offset edges or even all offset edges.

[0018] In one embodiment, face Fb is offset from the recessed region r1 below the shielding layer, or face Fb is present in the recessed region r1, opposite face F2 and separated by the encapsulation and / or the peripheral opaque element.

[0019] The glass edge has multiple edges, including two longitudinal edges and two transverse edges. Specifically, some or all of the outer edges, referred to as offset outer edges, are recessed by r1 from the first edge face, and all recesses r1 are identical or similar (differences of r1 not exceeding 0.2 mm). The recess r2 of the second edge face relative to the outer edge face (preferably measured from the endpoint if the second edge face is rounded) varies from one offset outer edge face to another, and may be less than 0.5 mm. The recess r2 can be intentionally differentiated, for example, some dimensions are designed to accommodate light sources, while others are not, or to accommodate optical coupling elements. Preferably, one or more light sources are located outside the package. When the second edge face protrudes a distance d2 from the outer edge face (preferably measured from the endpoint if the second edge face is rounded), the distance d2 of the second edge face relative to the outer edge face varies from one offset outer edge face to another, and may be less than 0.5 mm.

[0020] Preferably, no edge of the second edge surface (and even the interlayer edge surface) protrudes beyond the first edge surface, and at most the edge of the second edge surface (and even the interlayer edge surface) is aligned with the first edge surface.

[0021] Due to the manufacturing process of laminated glass windows, it is sometimes necessary for at least one edge (or even a single edge) of the second edge face to be aligned with the edge of the first edge face (the reference edge, achieved through adjacency during the assembly of the inner and outer panels). For example, this is not the edge of the inner panel that has an optically coupled area (with the light source).

[0022] In one embodiment, all outer edges of the outer edge face, referred to as offset outer edges, are recessed r1 from the first edge face. In the 2nd or 3rd offset outer edge regions, the second edge face is recessed from the first edge face, or even aligned with or recessed r2 from the outer edge face. The package is located opposite face F2 by the recess of the interlayer edge face relative to the first edge face and / or by the recess of the second edge face relative to the first edge face. The package preferably extends at least to the outer edge face. And / or the peripheral opaque element extends in the 2nd or 3rd offset outer edge regions, beyond the outer edge face and at most to the first edge face. Preferably, if necessary, the interlayer edge face... Furthermore, in the 1st and 2nd offset outer edge regions, the edge (referred to as the reference edge, preferably the front edge of the sunroof), the second edge face is aligned with the first edge face, and the package is located opposite face F2 by the indentation of the interlayer edge face relative to the first edge face. The package preferably extends at least to the outer edge face, and / or the outer edge face of the peripheral opaque element extends beyond the outer edge face and at most to the first edge face. Preferably, if necessary, the interlayer edge face is indented from the outer edge face by no more than 5 mm or 3 mm.

[0023] In one embodiment, all outer edges of the outer edge face, referred to as the offset outer edges, are recessed r1 from the first edge face. In two, three, or four offset outer edge regions, the package is located opposite face F2 by the recess of the interlayer edge face relative to the first edge face and / or by the recess of the second edge face relative to the first edge face. The package preferably extends at least to the outer edge face. Preferably, if necessary, the interlayer edge face is recessed from the outer edge face by no more than 3 mm.

[0024] In one embodiment, all outer edges of the outer edge face, referred to as offset outer edges, are recessed r1 from the first edge face. In 2, 3, or 4 offset outer edge regions, the package is located opposite face F2 by the recess of the second edge face relative to the first edge face. The package preferably extends at least to the outer edge face (and the recess of the outer edge face is at most 5 mm or 3 mm), and still more preferably the interlayer edge face is aligned with the first edge face.

[0025] From a manufacturing perspective, it is easy to align the sandwich edge face with the first edge face. For example, deburring (brushing or grinding) the sandwich that may extend beyond the first edge face after lamination. In cases where the sandwich edge face is recessed from the first edge face, the sandwich cut height can be selected to account for any creep.

[0026] In one embodiment, all outer edges of the outer edge face, referred to as the offset outer edges, are recessed by r1 from the first edge face. In 2, 3, or 4 offset outer edge regions, the package is located opposite face F2 by the recess of the sandwich edge face. The package is located between face F2 and Fa, particularly at a maximum of 3 mm and preferably at a maximum of 5 mm and / or at a maximum of the recess r1.

[0027] In one embodiment, all outer edges of the outer edge face, referred to as the offset outer edge, are recessed by r1 from the first edge face. In 2, 3, or 4 offset outer edge regions, the second edge face protrudes beyond the outer edge face (by a distance of r2 or denoted as d2), and in particular, is still recessed from the first edge face (region r1 or rounded edge region). The peripheral opaque element extends beyond the outer edge face (protruding from the outer edge face) and preferably has an outer edge face that extends to the first edge face.

[0028] The peripheral opaque elements can be continuous or segmented, connected at multiple outer edges, corners, etc., and closely spaced. The peripheral opaque elements preferably form a frame.

[0029] The encapsulation has an inner wall that contacts the edge face and face Fb (F4) of the glass. The encapsulation has an outer wall with a lip and a free outer surface facing the passenger compartment (e.g., flush with or protruding from face F1). The encapsulation may be made of polyurethane, particularly PU-RIM (in-mold reaction). Other encapsulation materials include: - Preferred flexible thermoplastics: thermoplastic elastomers (TPE), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM). - Rigid thermoplastics: polycarbonate (PC), polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyamide (PA66), acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS), ABSPC.

[0030] In particular, the extent of any indentation in the inner panel can be limited so that the structure can still be secured by a beaded edge of glue, preferably up to 30 mm from the first edge surface, particularly between 20 mm and 30 mm (beaded edge width 1 cm to 1.5 cm, thickness 5 mm). The indentation r2 can be minimal, for example, up to 2 mm or 1 mm.

[0031] Preferably, the first edge surface is rounded (polished) – for all edges – r1 is preferably measured from the start point of the rounded edge of the first edge surface, particularly the distance between the start and end points of the rounded edge (measured in the glass window plane) is at most half the thickness of the (outer) panel, particularly at most 1.5 mm or 1.2 mm. Preferably, the second edge surface is also rounded (polished) – for all edges – particularly the distance between the start and end points of the rounded edge of the second edge surface (measured in the glass window plane) is at most half the thickness of the inner panel, particularly at most 1.5 mm or 1.2 mm.

[0032] The rounded portions (of the outer and / or inner panels) can be continuous from one corner of the edge face to another, or have a more or less extended flat section in the middle. Typically, the panel edges are rounded by grinding. The rounding can vary, particularly the distance between the rounded portions, which may vary based on the wear of the grinding wheel. Each edge may have a slightly different rounding distance, typically less than 0.5 mm from one edge to another.

[0033] In this text, any distance from the first edge surface (indentation, etc.) preferably starts from the outermost point of the circular portion of the first rounded edge surface.

[0034] In this text, any distance from the second edge surface (indentation, etc.) preferably starts from the outermost point of the circular portion of the second rounded edge surface.

[0035] The possible peripherally opaque element preferably extends between the start and end points of the rounded edge of the first edge face (and even beyond the outer edge face), and in particular, the second rounded edge face protrudes beyond the outer edge face (by a distance of r2 or denoted as d2). In particular, r'2 is the distance between the outer edge faces of the peripherally opaque element, which may be substantially equal to the distance between the outer edge face and the first edge face.

[0036] In particular, in each of the offset outer edge regions, the outer edge surface has an indentation r1 of up to 5 mm or 2 mm from the first edge surface, preferably starting from the beginning of the rounded edge of the first rounded edge surface.

[0037] The shielding layer can be a strip that frames the glass, particularly a black strip. The tinting is applied across the entire perimeter to conceal body components or seals, or to protect adhesives used for installation on the vehicle. This internal shielding layer specifically defines the area of ​​the transparent glass. The width of the shielding layer along the side edge of the sunroof of a motor vehicle is generally smaller than at the front or even rear. The width of the shielding layer along the longitudinal edge can be customized to a maximum of 40 cm, particularly 20 cm to 40 cm. The shielding layer is preferably a continuous layer (flat, with solid edges), or alternatively, has an internally gradient edge (a set of patterns).

[0038] To enhance the barrier effect, the optical density of the opaque (absorbent) shielding layer and / or the surrounding opaque elements (selected to be absorbent) is at least 2, and preferably at least 3, at least 4, or at least 5.

[0039] In one or more (or all) offset outer edge regions, the peripherally opaque element has an edge face, referred to as the outer edge face, preferably located between the outer edge face and the first edge face (in the recessed region r1 and / or the circular region). The peripherally opaque element is particularly: - A film, particularly a polymer film, which is opaque in body (polyester, polyethylene terephthalate, black, preferably with a thickness of up to 200 μm or 100 μm) or colored with an opaque coating, is located within a laminated interlayer, particularly within a multilayer (especially an encapsulated opaque polymer film that is slightly recessed from the edge of the interlayer for protective purposes), preferably with a width of at least 10 mm.

[0040] - An opaque coating (especially black, absorbent and / or reflective, ink, etc.) on the main surface of the laminated interlayer, especially on the main surface of the multilayer interlayer, especially in contact with surface F2 or surface Fa (F3), and especially extending beyond surface Fa (F3).

[0041] - At least one opaque thickness portion of the multilayer laminate, particularly an opaque black intermediate layer, based on PVB (preferably containing plasticizer).

[0042] The surrounding opaque elements, especially the opaque intermediate layer, can be located below the upper intermediate layer (transparent or colored) that contacts surface F2.

[0043] In one embodiment, the outer panel is colored, and / or the laminated interlayer includes a colored upper intermediate layer in contact with surface F2 and a lower intermediate layer in contact with surface Fa, and an optical isolation layer is provided between the upper and lower intermediate layers, with peripheral opaque elements (as described above) connected to the lower intermediate layer.

[0044] In one embodiment, the peripheral opaque element, particularly the opaque intermediate layer, preferably has a transmittance of up to 5%, and more preferably up to 2%, up to 1%, or even zero.

[0045] In particular, the shielding layer is an opaque enamel coating on surface F2 with a recess r1 of up to 5 mm, 2 mm, or even 1 mm from the first edge surface, the inner panel is an ultra-clear glass plate, and / or a single or multiple laminated interlayer including a PVB interlayer preferably containing a plasticizer, in adhesive contact with surface F2, recessed from, aligned with, or protruding from the second edge surface in this or each offset outer edge region.

[0046] The glass according to the invention may include a first light source (diode array) located opposite the shielding layer, wherein: - Preferably arranged below surface Fb (F4) and associated with a light-directing element, particularly a reflective light-directing element, especially a prism type, located on the side of surface Fa (F3), or a transparent (refractive) light-directing element located on the side of surface Fb (F4), particularly a prism type (multi-prism or macroprism), which is connected to surface Fb (F4) for example by optical contact, adhesion, etc., or spaced apart from surface Fb (F4) and connected to surface Fb (F4) for example via an optical module; - Alternatively, it can be optically coupled to the second edge surface (directly or via, for example, an optical fiber with a side surface extraction), or coupled to the hole wall of the inner plate (hole, through hole, closed hole).

[0047] Preferably, the glass according to the invention includes a second light source (diode array), particularly first and second longitudinal light sources along the longitudinal edge of the glass (below face F4 or facing the second edge).

[0048] The glass according to the invention may also include a light extraction device attached to the inner plate, particularly attached to surface Fa (F3) or surface Fb (F4), especially on surface Fa or on the laminate, or even on surface Fb.

[0049] Each light source can be removable, additional, sold separately, or as a kit. Each light source is preferably a group of light-emitting diodes (on a printed circuit support, such as a PCB—a printed circuit board—e.g., a flexible PCB), particularly straight or curved strips. There may be one or more light sources (peripherally, preferably offset from the transparent glass area), multiple groups of diodes. The one or more light sources can be monochromatic (emitting in the blue, green, red, etc. light range) or multicolor, or adjustable or combined to produce, for example, white light. The light sources can extend linearly along one side (longitudinal edge) of the glass window (rectangular strip, such as a diode array), or replicated along both sides (with similar or different light, such as other colors or intensities, controlled independently or simultaneously).

[0050] The light source can be optically coupled to the inner plate forming the light guide in the following ways: - Through a local light steering element, through a reflective light steering element located on the F3 side, or through a transparent light steering element located on the F4 side; - Through the entire or part of the second edge surface; - Or through the walls of the inner panel (through the thickness, closed) (or multiple walls of multiple holes), especially the holes that are away from the transparent glass area and face the shielding layer.

[0051] When light is injected through the second edge surface, the light source is coupled to the edge surface of the inner plate, which may be located within the peripheral recess.

[0052] The light source can be housed in a polymer package, as described in application WO2010 / 049638, particularly in Figures 15 or 16, and the polymer package may even have a recess for removing or replacing the light source.

[0053] When light is injected through the inner wall of the aperture, the inner panel, particularly made of mineral glass, includes at least one peripheral aperture (through the thickness, or even a blind aperture in the thickness, opening at least on the F4 side), located below the shielding layer (outside the transparent glass area), and the light source is coupled to the wall of the inner panel defining the aperture, preferably housed within the aperture. The light source, particularly a diode, may be located within the aperture and may be associated with optical elements between the injection wall in the aperture and the light source or within the passenger compartment. Exemplary embodiments described in patents WO2018 / 178591 or WO2013 / 110885 may be specifically referenced.

[0054] The light source then faces or deviates from surface F4, and is optically coupled directly or via optical elements. Specifically, the light source and light-directing elements deviate from the transparent glass region and face the shielding layer. Optical elements (collimators, etc.) can be provided between the light source and surface F4, particularly optical elements attached to surface F4. The light source can be attached to surface F4. The principal direction of the light source radiation can be adjusted.

[0055] The reflective light-directing element can be bonded to surface F3 directly or via at least one layer of adhesive, or fixed by suction (strong interaction). The reflecting prism is oriented on either surface F2 or surface F3. The height of the prism can be at least 1 μm, and preferably at most 100 μm, 50 μm, or 30 μm. Preferably, the width of the deflecting prism element is smaller than the width of the shielding layer, preferably at most 10 cm or 5 cm, and even better at least 1 cm, and particularly has a length similar to the light source, linear (customizable). For example, it can be a rectangular strip with rounded corners. In particular, the light-directing element is a reflecting prism element comprising a reflecting prism arranged in: - On surface F3, especially in contact with the intermediate layer or the intermediate frame layer (transparent); - Within a PVB-based laminate, and particularly on the intermediate layer in contact with surface F3.

[0056] The laminated interlayer can be a thermoplastic or crosslinked adhesive material, preferably selected from polymers based on: polyvinyl butyral, known as PVB, or ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer, known as EVA (thermoplastic or crosslinked), thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), or ionomers. An example of a monomer resin is provided by Kuraray under the registered trademark SentryGlas.® Products for sale.

[0057] There may be an intermediate layer that is in adhesive contact with surface F2, and an intermediate layer that is in adhesive contact with surface Fa (F3), and there may even be an additional intermediate layer (inserted) between these layers.

[0058] The intermediate layer that is preferably in contact with surface F2 may be made of UV-resistant PVB, such as the UV-resistant PVB called RU41 from Eastman, for example to protect the electroactive layer (electrochromic, etc.) or any organic ink or coating.

[0059] Laminated interlayers can be sound-insulating, particularly comprising or composed of sound-insulating PVB (three-layer, four-layer, etc.). Thus, a laminated interlayer may include at least one intermediate layer, referred to as a core layer, made of a viscoelastic plastic with vibratory acoustic damping properties, particularly based on polyvinyl butyral and plasticizers, and also includes two outer intermediate layers made of standard PVB, with the core layer situated between the two outer layers. Examples of sound-insulating PVB are described in patent applications WO2012 / 025685 and WO2013 / 175101, and particularly in colorings such as those in WO2015 / 079159.

[0060] The lower intermediate layer in contact with surface Fa (F3) can be PVB-based and contains 70% to 75% by weight of PVB, 25% to 30% by weight of plasticizer, and less than 1% by weight of auxiliary agents. There are also PVB sheets containing small amounts of plasticizer (less than 10% or 5% by weight) or no plasticizer, such as Kuraray's "MOWITAL LP BF" film or "optical grade film".

[0061] The upper intermediate layer in contact with surface F2 can be colored, especially with a light transmittance (called LT) of up to 73%, particularly gray-colored PVB.

[0062] The additional (inserted) intermediate layer located between the intermediate layers that are in contact with surfaces F2 and F3 respectively (e.g. for integrating functional films, electrically controllable devices) may be colored, and in particular, have a light transmittance of up to 73%, or even at least 13%.

[0063] The functional film can be a (transparent) optical insulating layer, preferably with a refractive index of up to 1.4, such as a fluoropolymer film. The optical insulating layer is particularly useful when the intermediate layer and / or outer glass plate of the contact surface F2 are colored. Another functional element may be located between surface F2 and the optical insulating layer.

[0064] The laminated interlayer can be multi-layered (with straight interlayer edge faces and intermediate layers aligned with each other). The laminated interlayer includes an upper intermediate layer in contact with surface F2 and a lower intermediate layer in contact with surface Fa (F3), and this glass window includes, between the outer and inner intermediate layers, particularly above the optical insulating layer, at least one functional element selected from the group consisting of: - Electrically controllable devices, particularly liquid crystal-based variable scattering devices (PDLC, PNLC, CLC, etc.), or particularly electrochromic variable coloring devices, or suspended particle devices (SPD), including an electroactive layer (optionally having an additional alignment layer) between a conductive support on the inner side of the outer glass plate and a conductive support on the outer side of the inner glass plate. - Photovoltaic installations, particularly those with one or more connected photovoltaic cells arranged in one or more rows; - Functional membrane.

[0065] Glass windows, especially skylights, can be combined with one or more functional (non-adhesive) elements, particularly: - The electronic device (more or less extended) is selected from at least one of the following: a sensor, an electrically controllable device for variable coloring and / or scattering, an additional diode (emitting towards the outer glass plate or the inner plate), particularly local or extending over almost the entire glass unit, particularly facing or away from the light propagation area, and other light extraction devices. - Functional polymer films, such as infrared reflective films (sunlight control, silver layer stacking, as an alternative to the layer on face F2), and / or heating functions, such as polymer substrates with conductive (transparent) coatings, particularly with a thickness of up to 0.4 mm or 0.2 mm, particularly locally or preferably extending over almost the entire glass (and the entire transparent glass area), with the conductive coating on face F2 side or face F3 side.

[0066] For functional polymer films, transparent PET films coated with a conductive layer, such as Eastman's XIR, and co-extruded PET-PMMA films, such as SRF 3M, can be used. ® type.

[0067] Examples of electro-optic functional elements are SPD ("suspended particle device") functional elements, such as those known from EP0876608B1 and WO2011 / 033313A1; PDLC ("polymer dispersed liquid crystal") functional elements, such as those known from DE102008026339A1; CLC ("cholesterol liquid crystal") functional elements; and PNLC ("polymer network liquid crystal") functional elements. There are also electrochromic functional elements, such as those known from EP3702572A1 or EP2917159A1.

[0068] The glass window includes at least one functional element selected from the group consisting of: - An inner opaque peripheral layer, on the inner panel surface Fb(F4), particularly with the same width as or narrower than the shielding layer; - An opaque peripheral element located between the inner surface Fb and the surface F1, suitable for blocking light sources and light deflection elements; - Conductive coatings, especially those that are infrared reflective, such as stacks with silver layers, located on surface F2, or on additional films, especially polymer films; - A conductive, particularly infrared-reflective coating located on the surface Fb(F4), such as a stack with a transparent conductive oxide layer.

[0069] In particular, the glass window may include a layer on surface F2 that reflects or absorbs infrared light (the outer glass panel is preferably made of transparent or ultra-clear glass), or a thin stack of layers on a transparent polymer film (PET, etc.) between two intermediate layers, particularly including at least one metal layer (such as silver, and even 2, 3, or 4 layers), which or each silver layer is disposed between the dielectric layers on surface F2. In particular, the glass window may include an infrared reflecting or infrared absorbing layer on surface Fb (F4), particularly including a thin stack of at least one layer of transparent conductive oxide (TCO), such as ITO, which or each TCO layer is disposed between the dielectric layers.

[0070] It may be mentioned that, for face F4, stacks containing ITO, such as those described in U.S. Patent US2015 / 0146286, are present on face 4, particularly in Examples 1 to 3. Infrared reflective coatings are also known in WO2018 / 206236, and particularly include: dielectric coatings comprising dielectric layers, such as silicon nitride and / or silicon oxide layers; functional layers based on transparent conductive oxides (TCOs), such as layers based on indium tin oxide (ITO); and dielectric coatings comprising dielectric layers, such as silicon nitride and silicon oxide layers.

[0071] The outer glass plate may be made of mineral glass, and may be based on silica, preferably on sodium-calcium silicate, or even on aluminosilicate or borosilicate, and preferably, the total iron oxide content (expressed as Fe2O3) is at least 0.4% by weight, preferably at most 1.5%. To limit absorption, the inner plate 5 may be made of mineral glass, particularly based on sodium-calcium silicate, or on aluminosilicate or borosilicate, and the total iron oxide content (expressed as Fe2O3) is at most 0.05% (500 ppm), preferably at most 0.03% (300 ppm) and at most 0.015% (150 ppm), and particularly preferably greater than or equal to 0.005%. The redox ratio of the inner glass plate 5 is preferably greater than or equal to 0.15.

[0072] The inner panel can also be made of polymers, particularly polyurethane (PU), polycarbonate (PC), poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA), or poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC). The inner panel can be flexible to follow the curvature of the curved outer glass panel or prefabricated panel.

[0073] The outer glass sheet, and even the selected inner glass sheet, can be produced by the float glass process to allow for a completely flat and smooth sheet, or by the drawing or rolling process.

[0074] As an example of glass, float glass with a conventional sodium-calcium composition can be cited, optionally strengthened or tempered by heat or chemical methods, and may contain aluminum or sodium borosilicate or any other composition.

[0075] In this paper, transmittance is calculated, for example, from the transmission spectrum between 380 and 780 nm, taking into account light source A and the CIE 1964 standard observer (10°).

[0076] For glass windows, and especially skylights, the light transmittance is selected to be at most 40% or even at most 28% and even at most 8% in the transparent glass area, and preferably at least 3% or at most 1% in the tinted state, by means of a device with variable tinting.

[0077] The light extraction device may define at least one first scattering region, for example, with a width of at least 0.5 mm, particularly a first solid scattering region and / or include a set of discontinuous scattering patterns.

[0078] Glass windows may include multiple scattering areas of the same or different sizes and / or shapes, with any geometry (rectangle, square, triangle, circle, ellipse, etc.), and design or lighting markings (arrows, letters, etc.).

[0079] The means of extracting and guiding light within the light guide (especially within the inner plate) can take the following forms: laser etching, texturing (acid etching of glass, etc.), textured film, coating, or scattering film (preferably transparent) in the inner plate, having an adhesive and scattering particles, a transparent adhesive (organic, mineral, or mixed), preferably with a refractive index greater than or equal to the refractive index of the inner plate, particularly at least 1.48. The adhesive can be a transparent ink.

[0080] The light extraction device can be temporary (removable sticker) and therefore can be added or replaced, especially on face Fb (F4), or it can be permanent, especially on face Fa (F3).

[0081] When the light extraction device is a scattering coating (printed ink) on a PVB interlayer (with or without plasticizer, at least 0.3 mm thick) rather than on the inner plate, it is easier to change the pattern of the light extraction and printing tools than on curved glass. For mechanical strength reasons, and especially for preserving glass fragments, light extraction is also preferred on the PVB rather than on the glass.

[0082] Preferably, the light transmittance of the scattering coating and its substrate (inner plate, intermediate layer in contact with surface F3) is at least 80%, and the haze is at most 30%.

[0083] For example, the adhesive for the scattering coating is organic, such as a crosslinked polymer selected from polymers based on polyacrylates, polyepoxides, polyvinyl acetate, polyesters, polyurethanes, or thermoplastics based on PVB, or even TPU.

[0084] Preferably, when the substrate of the scattering coating is an inner intermediate layer, a plasticizer based on PVB without plasticizer or with a maximum of 15%, 10%, or 5% plasticizer is selected. For example, the thickness of the inner intermediate layer forming the substrate is at most 200 μm.

[0085] Document WO2021 / 005162 describes examples of scattering coatings on polymer layers, particularly laminated interlayers and PVB-based layers. Document WO2023 / 285743 describes examples of scattering coatings on PVB or glass laminated interlayers.

[0086] Preferably, the scattering particles (dielectric, organic, or inorganic, such as metal oxides) have a particle size defined as D90 less than 2 μm, preferably between 100 nm and 700 nm, particularly 400 nm ± 100 nm. Preferably, the scattering particles are selected from non-luminescent TiO2, SiO2, CaCO3, ZnO, Al2O3, and ZrO2 particles. Preferably, the particles have a refractive index greater than or equal to 1.8 or even 2.

[0087] The present invention also relates to a motor vehicle that incorporates the aforementioned glass windows, particularly a sunroof, side windows (particularly fixed side windows), and fixed glass doors (particularly fixed sunroofs (canopies)).

[0088] Road vehicles should be understood as motor vehicles, especially commercial vehicles (vans, light trucks, delivery vehicles) weighing less than 3.5 tons (light commercial vehicles), or even trucks, or even shuttle buses, small private or public transport vehicles. It can also be autonomous or semi-autonomous road vehicles. Attached Figure Description

[0089] Other features and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following description with reference to the accompanying drawings, which show: Figure 1 A schematic partial cross-sectional view of the illuminateable laminated vehicle window 100 in the first embodiment, particularly the sunroof window, having a peripheral seal that is overmolded to form an encapsulation of the edge surface of the window. Figure 1' View from below, i.e., from inside the vehicle Figure 1 The schematic perspective view of the glass window shown (without seals); Figure 1'' View from below, i.e., from inside the vehicle Figure 1 The schematic perspective view of the glass window shown is a variant (without seals). Figure 2 : A schematic partial cross-sectional view of the illuminateable laminated vehicle window 200 in the second embodiment, particularly a sunroof window with a seal; Figure 2' View from below, i.e., from inside the vehicle Figure 2 The schematic perspective view of the glass window shown (without seals); Figure 2'' View from below, i.e., from inside the vehicle Figure 2 The schematic perspective view of the glass window shown is a variant (without seals). Figure 3 : A schematic partial cross-sectional view of the illuminateable laminated vehicle window 300 in the third embodiment, particularly a sunroof window with a polymer-encapsulated seal; Figure 3' View from below, i.e., from inside the vehicle Figure 3 A schematic perspective view of the glass window shown in the image; Figure 4 : A schematic partial cross-sectional view of the illuminateable laminated vehicle window 400 in the fourth embodiment, particularly a sunroof window with a seal; Figure 4' View from below, i.e., from inside the vehicle Figure 4 A schematic perspective view of the glass window shown in the image; Figure 4'' View from below, i.e., from inside the vehicle Figure 4 The schematic perspective view of the glass window shown is a variant. Figure 5 : A schematic partial cross-sectional view of the illuminateable laminated vehicle window 500 in the fifth embodiment, particularly a sunroof window with a seal; Figure 5' View from below, i.e., from inside the vehicle Figure 5 A schematic perspective view of the glass window shown in the image; Figure 5'' View from below, i.e., from inside the vehicle Figure 5 The schematic perspective view of the glass window shown in the figure, variant 500; Figure 6 : A schematic partial cross-sectional view of the illuminateable laminated vehicle window 600 in the sixth embodiment, particularly a sunroof window with a seal; Figure 7 : A schematic partial cross-sectional view of the illuminateable laminated vehicle window 700 in the seventh embodiment, particularly a sunroof window with a seal; Figure 8 : A schematic partial cross-sectional view of the illuminateable laminated vehicle window 800 in the eighth embodiment, particularly a sunroof window with a seal.

[0090] For clarity, all identical or similar elements in the drawings are identified by the same reference numerals. Elements shown are not drawn to scale. The terms "exterior" and "interior" are used to refer to the arrangement of windows over the sunroof opening of a motor vehicle; "exterior" refers to the space outside the vehicle, and "interior" refers to the space of the passenger compartment. In all the cross-sectional views shown here, the exterior is at the top of the figure, and the interior is at the bottom. Detailed Implementation

[0091] In the following example, consider a laminated glass window with two glass panes, where F1 or 11 refers to the outer surface of the outer glass pane, F2 or 12 refers to the inner surface of the outer glass pane, F3 or 13 refers to the outer surface of the inner pane, and F4 or 14 refers to the inner surface of the inner pane.

[0092] Figure 1 A schematic partial cross-sectional view of an illuminateable laminated vehicle window 100 in the first embodiment is shown, particularly a sunroof window, having a peripheral seal that is overmolded to form an encapsulation of the edge surface of the window. Figure 1' From Figure 1 The diagram shows a schematic perspective view (without seals) below the glass window, that is, from inside the vehicle. Figure 1'' It is a variant.

[0093] More specifically, it relates to an illuminateable laminated glass window 100 for vehicles, including laminated glass windows with four-sided edge faces 10, 20, 30, having two longitudinal edges (parallel or non-parallel) and two transverse edges (front and rear edges for a sunroof in the mounting position, parallel or non-parallel), laminated glass windows, particularly curved, including: - The outer glass panel 1 has first edge surfaces 10, 101 to 104, a first main surface called surface F1 11, and a second main surface (2, for example, colored glass) called surface F2; - Laminated interlayer 3, having so-called interlayer edge faces 30, 301 to 304, single layer or multiple layers, for example based on PVB (at least one layer has a plasticizer); - An inner transparent plate (2) having second edge surfaces 20, 201 to 204, an outer main surface F3 13 oriented toward surface F2, and an opposing inner main surface F4 14, preferably an ultra-white glass plate (for better light guiding); and - The peripheral masking layers 4, 401 to 404 on surface F2 are black enamel coatings, having an inner edge surface 41 and an outer edge surface 40, 401 to 404 located between surfaces F2 and F3.

[0094] The first and second edge surfaces 10, 20 are rounded (and polished) at all edges. In particular, the so-called circular distance (measured in the glass plane) between the starting point 10' and the ending point of the rounded edge is at most half the thickness. Specifically for the outer panel (e.g., at most 2.2 mm thick), the circular distance is at most 1.5 mm or 1.2 mm. In particular, the rounded portion can be continuous from one corner of the edge surface 10 or 20 to another, or have a more or less extended flat area in between (see...). Figure 8 (Extended flat area). Typically, the edges of plates 1 and 2 are rounded by grinding. The rounding may vary, and in particular, the distance between the rounded portions may vary based on the wear of the grinding wheel. Each edge may have a slightly different rounding distance, typically less than 0.5 mm from one edge to the other.

[0095] The outer edge surface 40 is on all its edges, referred to as offset outer edges 401 to 404 (see...) Figure 1' , 1'' The indentation r1 from the starting point 10' of the circular portion of the first edge face is, for example, up to 5 mm, 1 mm, and particularly at least 0.5 mm. r1 may vary from one edge to the other, for example, less than 0.2 mm, because the enamel is deposited by screen printing, and the nominal value of r1 will depend on the wear of the grinding wheel.

[0096] The shielding layer 4 forms a black enamel strip around the glass window. The coloring is applied across the entire perimeter to conceal body components or seals, or to protect adhesives used for mounting to the vehicle. This shielding layer 4 defines the transparent glass area, particularly by its inner edge face 41. The width of the shielding layer 4 along the side or longitudinal edge of the sunroof of the motor vehicle is generally smaller than at the front or even rear. The shielding layer 4 is preferably a continuous layer (flat, with solid edges), or alternatively, has gradient edges (a set of patterns). The light density of the shielding layer is at least 2, preferably 4 or 5.

[0097] Below the shielding layer 4, the vehicle sunroof 100 includes one or even two light sources 5, 5', each longitudinal (along its longitudinal edge, generally parallel), each comprising a set of light-emitting diodes (on a printed circuit board (PCB) support, such as a flexible PCB), particularly a straight strip optically coupled to the inner plate 2 forming a light guide. Each light source is optically coupled to the inner plate 2 via a local light-directing element, here a (multi)prism-type light-directing element 6, which is a reflector on the F3 side, or alternatively a transparent light-directing element on the F4 side, particularly prism-type (macroprism and / or multiprism). The height of the prism can be at least 1 μm, and preferably at most 100 μm, 50 μm, or 30 μm. Preferably, the width of the steering prism element is less than the width of the shielding layer 8, preferably at most 1 cm, and particularly has a length similar to that of the light source, linear (customizable). For example, it can be a rectangular strip with rounded corners.

[0098] In particular, the light-directing element is a reflecting prism element, comprising a reflecting prism, arranged in: - On surface F3, especially in contact with the intermediate layer or the intermediate frame layer (transparent); - Within the PVB-based laminated interlayer 3, and particularly on the intermediate layer in contact with surface F3, the reflecting prism can be oriented toward surface F2 or F3.

[0099] The light source is then optically coupled, either facing or offset from surface F4, and particularly directly or through optical elements on the side of surface F4, for example, to direct or collimate the beam. The light source may be attached to surface F4. Examples of such coupling are described in application WO2023 / 144282. For example, a transparent prism film (on surface F4) comprises a thermoplastic transparent film, such as one based on polyethylene terephthalate (PET), on which transparent prisms formed of polyacrylate (e.g., a resin cross-linked by UV) are deposited. For a prism reflective film, a metal layer is added. The reflective prism film 6 forms longitudinal stripes similar to those of the light source. As a variant, the prism film 6 is a monolithic polymer film, such as a preform, with a reflective layer applied.

[0100] The vehicle sunroof 100 also includes a light extraction device 7 located on the F3 or F4 side, preferably in the form of a transparent scattering coating, having an adhesive and scattering particles. The transparent adhesive (organic, mineral, or mixed) preferably has a refractive index greater than or equal to that of the inner panel, particularly at least 1.48. Preferably, the scattering coating is an ink printed on a PVB-based intermediate layer that is free of plasticizers or contains at most 15%, 10%, or 5% plasticizer, particularly with an interlayer thickness of at most 200 μm.

[0101] The glass window 100 is connected to the vehicle's roof structure via the peripheral seal 8. Figure 1(Not shown) This is a polymer encapsulation (performed by injection) that frames the laminated glass window, preferably in the same (or similar) color as the shielding layer 4, particularly black.

[0102] More precisely, the seal 8 first has an inner wall having a first region 81 that contacts the second edge surface 20 and the interlayer edge surface 30, a second region 82 that contacts the first edge surface 10, and a third region 83 that contacts surface F4 14. The seal 8 also has an outer wall having a peripheral lip 80 designed to cooperate with the sunroof opening structure of the vehicle, and an upper surface 84, which is flush with (or slightly below) surface F1 11. Triangle 60 symbolizes the beaded edge of the adhesive on surface F4, typically centered at a distance of 20 mm to 25 mm (at least 40 mm, 30 mm) from the first edge surface.

[0103] In each region of the offset outer edge, the package extends between the outer edge and the first edge, for example, by up to 2 mm here, aligned with the outer edge, as the mezzanine edge face 30 is recessed upstream of the first edge face. In practice, the mezzanine edge face 20 may be recessed from the outer edge face, for example, by up to 10 mm, 5 mm, or 3 mm. The relative position of the mezzanine edge face 20 to the outer edge face may vary from one offset outer edge to another.

[0104] Light from a light source 5, 5' is guided into plate 2 and may exit from the second edge surface 20. However, the presence of the encapsulation (and even the opaque shielding layer 4) in the recessed region r1 acts as an optical barrier (partially or entirely), greatly reducing or even preventing any of these rays from reaching the first edge surface in the recessed region r1 (and in the circular region).

[0105] Typically, due to the manufacturing process of laminated glass windows, in at least three window edges, the second edge surface 20 is slightly recessed from the first edge surface 10. For example, the distance r2 (or denoted as d2, where the second edge surface protrudes from the outer edge surface) between the outer edge surface 40 and the second edge surface 20 (preferably with the end points of the second edge surface rounded) is at most 1 mm or 0.5 mm. And preferably, for this method, the last edge of the second edge surface (referred to as the reference edge) is aligned with the second edge surface. According to the invention, either the last edge 203 is also recessed from the first edge surface 103 (see...) Figure 1' ), or it is the reference edge 203, such as the front edge of the sunroof (see Figure 1'' ).

[0106] Figure 2 This is a schematic partial cross-sectional view of the illuminateable laminated vehicle window 200 in the second embodiment, particularly a sunroof window with a seal forming an encapsulation. Figure 2 It is seen from below, that is, from inside the vehicle. Figure 2 The diagram shows a schematic perspective view of a glass window (without seals).

[0107] Figure 2'' It is seen from below, that is, from inside the vehicle. Figure 2 The schematic perspective view of the glass window shown is a variant (without a seal).

[0108] The difference between skylight 200 and skylight 100 lies in the fact that the interlayer edge surface 30 is slightly recessed from the outer edge surface 40, for example, by a maximum of 2 millimeters. In fact, the interlayer edge surface 30 can be aligned with the outer edge surface. The relative position of the interlayer edge surface 30 and the outer edge surface can vary from one offset outer edge to another.

[0109] The skylight glass 200 differs from the skylight glass 100 in that the second edge surface 20 is recessed by r2 (r2, rather than protruding) from the outer edge surface 40, for example, by a maximum of 5 mm or 3 mm, and is aligned with or even recessed from the interlayer edge surface, for example, by a maximum of 5 mm or 3 mm. This enhances the suppression of light leakage.

[0110] Furthermore, in at least three glass window edges, the second edge surface 20 is slightly recessed from the first edge surface 10. For example, the distance r2 between the outer edge surface 40 and the second edge surface 20 (here, the recess) is at most 3 mm. And preferably, for this method, the last edge 203 of the second edge surface, referred to as the reference edge, is aligned with the edge 103 of the second edge surface. According to the invention, either the last edge is also recessed from the first edge surface (see...). Figure 2' ), or it is the reference edge, such as the front edge of the sunroof (see Figure 2'' ).

[0111] The difference between skylight 200 and skylight 100 lies in that skylight 200 includes an infrared absorbing or reflecting layer 15 (sunlight control) on surface F2 12, or alternatively on a transparent polymer film (PET, etc.) between two intermediate layers, particularly including a thin stack of at least one metallic layer such as silver (and even two, three, or four silver layers), which or each silver layer is located between dielectric layers on surface F2. Therefore, cumulatively or alternatively, skylight 200 includes an external conductive coating 16, particularly infrared reflective (low emissivity), such as a stack having transparent conductive oxide layers (TCO, particularly based on indium tin oxide (ITO) or fluorine-doped tin oxide), on surface F4. The TCO is arranged between dielectric layers.

[0112] Figure 3 This is a schematic partial cross-sectional view of the illuminateable laminated vehicle window 300 in the third embodiment, particularly a sunroof window with a polymer-encapsulated seal. Figure 3'It is seen from below, that is, from inside the vehicle. Figure 3 The diagram shows a schematic perspective view of the glass window.

[0113] The difference between the skylight glass window 300 and the previous skylight glass window 200 is that the second edge surface is recessed from the outer edge surface by r2 (relative to the outer edge surface), for example, 10 mm or 5 mm.

[0114] According to the invention, either the final edge 203 (the front edge of the sunroof) is also recessed from edge 103, or it is the reference edge, such as the front edge of the sunroof (see...). Figure 3' ').

[0115] Figure 4 This is a schematic partial cross-sectional view of the illuminateable laminated vehicle window 400 in the fourth embodiment, particularly a sunroof window with a seal. Figure 4' It is seen from below, that is, from inside the vehicle. Figure 4 The diagram shows a schematic perspective view of the glass window. Figure 4'' It is seen from below, that is, from inside the vehicle. Figure 4 The schematic perspective view of the glass window shown is a variant.

[0116] The difference between the skylight glass window 400 and the skylight glass window 200 is that the interlayer edge surface 30 is aligned with the first edge surface 10 (for the three edges or all edges 301 to 304). To create an optical barrier, the encapsulation 81 is located in the recessed area r1 and is recessed from the outer edge surface by at least three second edge surface edges 301, 302, 304.

[0117] According to the invention, either the final edge surface 203 (the front edge of the skylight) is also recessed from the edge 103 (see...). Figure 4' ), or it is the reference edge, such as the front edge of the sunroof (see Figure 4' Aligned with edge 103. In this case, a partial indentation of the PVB can be provided up to the outer edge face, or a partially peripheral opaque device (such as those described below).

[0118] Figure 5 This is a schematic partial cross-sectional view of the illuminateable laminated vehicle window 500 in the fifth embodiment, particularly a sunroof window with a seal. Figure 5' It is seen from below, that is, from inside the vehicle. Figure 5 The diagram shows a schematic perspective view of the glass window. Figure 5'' It is seen from below, that is, from inside the vehicle. Figure 5 The schematic perspective view of the glass window shown is a variant.

[0119] The difference between the skylight glass window 500 and the previous skylight glass window 400 is the addition of an opaque peripheral element 9, located at least in region r1 and even in the rounded portion of the first edge surface 10, to enhance the light barrier. Here, this is an opaque ink on the inner main surface of a black PET polymer film, such as 80 micrometers, or even one of the two intermediate layers 31, 32. r'2 is the distance between the outer edge surface 90 and the outer edge surface 40, which can be substantially equal to the distance between the outer edge surface and the first edge surface. The inner edge surface 91 can be of a selective shape between the two glass plates 1, 2, below the shielding layer 4. On the three edges 301, 302, 304, the second rounded edge surface 40 is located in the recessed region r1 and below the opaque element 9.

[0120] According to the invention, either the final edge 203 (the front edge of the sunroof) is also recessed from edge 103 (see...). Figure 5' ), or it is the reference edge, such as the front edge of the sunroof (see Figure 5' ).

[0121] Figure 6 This is a schematic partial cross-sectional view of the illuminateable laminated vehicle window 600 in the sixth embodiment, particularly a sunroof window with a seal. The sunroof window 600 differs from the previous sunroof window 500 in the choice of the opaque peripheral element 9', which in this case is an opaque peripheral intermediate layer 3. The opaque inner edge surface 91 can be of a selectable shape between the two glass panels 1, 2, and preferably recessed from the inner edge surface 41 of the shielding layer 4.

[0122] The second edge face 20 is recessed from the outer edge face 90 of the opaque PVB 9 on 3 edges (one edge aligned) or even all 4 edges.

[0123] Edge surface 30 (here, outer edge surface 90) can be aligned with the first edge surface.

[0124] Figure 7 This is a schematic partial cross-sectional view of the illuminateable laminated vehicle window 700 in the seventh embodiment, particularly a sunroof window with a seal.

[0125] The difference between the skylight glass window 700 and the skylight glass window 300 lies in the opaque peripheral device 9, which serves as a supplement to the light barrier.

[0126] For this purpose, the interlayer edge surface 30 extends beyond the second edge surface 20 and includes an opaque ink 9' (black and / or reflective, metallic, resin, or mineral layer, etc.) forming a peripheral frame around the four edges on one of its main surfaces (here, for example, oriented towards surface F3 or surface F2). The inner edge surface 91 of this ink 9 can be of a selective shape between the two glass plates 1, 2, preferably recessed from the inner edge surface 41 of the shielding layer 4. r'2 is the distance between the outer edge surface 90 and the outer edge surface 40, which can be substantially equal to the distance between the outer edge surface and the first edge surface.

[0127] According to the invention, either the final edge 203 (the front edge of the sunroof) is also recessed from edge 103 (see...). Figure 5' ), or it is the reference edge, such as the front edge of the sunroof (see Figure 5' ).

[0128] Figure 8 This is a schematic cross-sectional view of the illuminateable laminated vehicle window 800 in the eighth embodiment, particularly the sunroof window.

[0129] This glass window 800, preferably rectangular and curved in one or more directions, includes, from the outside to the inside: - The outer glass panel 1 can be 2.1 mm thick Planiclear glass with an infrared reflective coating 15 (silver layer stacking) and the light transmittance of the component is 71.8% (91% without the reflective coating); - Inner transparent panel 2, preferably made of mineral glass, is the same shape and size as panel 1, forming the inner glass layer on the passenger compartment side (e.g., ultra-white soda-lime silica glass panel, such as Diamant glass from Saint-Gobain Glass, with a light transmittance of at least 91%, a thickness of 2.9 mm, and a refractive index n1 of about 1.52 at 600 nm, or Optiwhite glass 1.95 mm, or Sunmax glass 2.05 mm), having an ITO-based low emissivity coating 16 on surface F4; - The transparent laminated interlayer 3 between surface F2 and surface F3 includes: - PVB inner intermediate layer 31 (containing plasticizer, at least 30% by weight), transparent (as transparent as possible and with as few optical defects as possible), 0.38 mm or 0.76 mm (one or two sheets), in adhesive contact with surface F3, with a refractive index n3 of about 1.48 at 600 nm, for example, PVB with 99.9% transmittance.

[0130] - Intermediate layer 33, particularly thermoplastic, here based on PVB (containing plasticizer, at least 30% by weight), 0.38 mm or 0.76 mm (one or two sheets), transparent, or as a variant, colored, such as gray-colored, with 27% light transmittance. - Outer intermediate layer 33, particularly thermoplastic, here based on PVB (containing plasticizer, at least 30% by weight), 0.38 mm or 0.76 mm (one or two sheets), in viscous contact with face F2, transparent, or as a variant, colored, such as gray-colored, with 27% light transmittance.

[0131] Alternatively, the inner intermediate layer 31 is based on PVB with little or no plasticizer (especially less than 5% by weight), particularly a MOWITAL film, for example, with a thickness of up to 100 μm. Alternatively, the inner intermediate layer 31 is based on a cross-linked polymer adhesive material, particularly a viscous polyacrylate film.

[0132] Glass 800 includes an enamel shielding layer 4, forming a light-shielding frame that defines a transparent glass area 41 (sunlight), which is rectangular in shape.

[0133] To optically isolate the internal (light guiding and light extraction) and external colored, absorptive portions, the glass window 800 also includes an optical insulating element 92, with a refractive index lower than that of PVB 31 (and glass 2), such as a fluoropolymer film, sandwiched between an outer intermediate layer 33 and an inserted intermediate layer 32. It extends across the entire transparent glass region and beyond, with its edge face below the shielding layer 4. The film 92 here is less than 200 μm thick, even at most 100 μm, and is protected at its periphery by one or two outer and inserted intermediate layers (especially for creep resistance during lamination). The interface between the two intermediate layers 31, 32 may be indistinguishable.

[0134] An electrically controllable device, here a variable scattering device 93, is located between the outer intermediate layer 33 and the inserted intermediate layer 32, preferably colored, gray, and particularly PVB. Since the thickness of device 93 is, for example, 0.4 mm, an intermediate frame layer 34 with a thickness of 0.38 mm, made of PVB, is added; it can be transparent or colored. The edge of device 93 is below the shielding layer 2. For example, a skylight with device 93 exhibits at least 80% haze in a scattering state. The variable scattering device 93 includes: - A first support member (e.g., 125 μm PET) has a first conductive coating (e.g., ITO) on the F2 side; - Electroactive layer, based on liquid crystal in a polymer matrix (e.g., PDLC); - The second support (e.g., 125 μm PET) has a second conductive coating (e.g., ITO) on the F3 side.

[0135] The surrounding conductive coating is not covered by the electroactive layer and provides a strip-shaped current input port for power supply. To protect the electroactive layer, chemical protection methods (blocking optional plasticizers in PVB) can be provided, such as through adhesive or contact strips of PET polymer.

[0136] Alternatively, the variable scattering device can be replaced with an electrochromic device, a functional PET film (colored, etc.), or a photovoltaic device.

[0137] For the lighting function, a shielding layer 5 is provided to block it from the outside: - A light-emitting diode 5 (forward-emitting) facing (or offset from) surface F4 on a support (e.g., PCB); - On the F3 side, local and peripheral light-directing elements 6, such as reflective prism film 6.

[0138] Here, the reflective prism film 6 is located below the optical isolator 92. As a precaution, to prevent stray light from passing through the film and even the shielding layer 4, an internal opaque element (of the same width and not extending beyond the inner edge of the film 92) may optionally be added in alignment with the prism film 6; this is here opaque (black) ink or an adhesive black PET film. Alternatively, a transparent prism film may be selected on the F4 side, downstream of the diode.

[0139] The illumination device is preferably doubled by adding another light source to its support and another reflective prism film along another longitudinal edge of the glass 800. In particular, a set of diode strips can be arranged on both sides, located on the supports that are independent of each other or connected to each other. They can also be placed on the front or rear edge. For example, the light extraction device 7 can be an extended or dotted geometric pattern.

[0140] For this glass window 800, an optional encapsulation may be provided, which has a recessed interlayer edge face and / or a second interlayer, or even the aforementioned peripheral opaque element, such as those shown in the previous examples. In particular, the lower layer 31 is PVB with an opaque perimeter, or this lower layer 31 is coated with black opaque ink on its perimeter.

[0141] As will be clear from the foregoing, the present invention provides an elegant and economical solution for significantly reducing or eliminating light leakage around the periphery of the lighting glass connected to the structure via a peripheral polymer encapsulation.

[0142] This solution can be implemented without any substantial modifications to the industrial manufacturing tools used for this glass window.

[0143] Naturally, the present invention has been described by way of example above. Of course, those skilled in the art will be able to implement different embodiments of the invention without departing from its scope.

Claims

1. An illuminateable laminated glass window (100 to 800) for a vehicle, comprising a laminated glass window having edge faces (10, 20, 30), said laminated glass window comprising: An outer glass panel (1) having a first edge surface (10, 101 to 104) and a first main surface, referred to as surface F1 (11), and a second main surface, referred to as surface F2 (12); an inner transparent panel (2) having a second edge surface (20, 201 to 204), an outer main surface, referred to as Fa (13), oriented toward said surface F2, and an opposing inner main surface, referred to as Fb (14); a laminated interlayer (3) located between said surface F2 and said surface Fa, having a so-called interlayer edge surface (30, 301 to 304); and a peripheral shielding layer (4, 401 to 404), which is a coating on said surface F2, having an inner edge surface (41) and an outer edge surface (40, 401 to 404) located between surface F2 and Fa. The outer edge face is recessed r1 from the first edge face at at least one first edge called the offset outer edge (401 to 404), characterized in that it includes a peripheral seal (8), the peripheral seal (8) being an opaque polymer encapsulation of the edge face of the glass window, framing the laminated glass window, and, in the region of the offset outer edge, between the outer edge face and the first edge face, extending the encapsulation and / or connecting to a peripheral opaque element (9) of the laminated interlayer.

2. The illuminateable laminated glass window for a vehicle according to claim 1, characterized in that, The surface Fb is offset from the recessed region r1 below the shielding layer, or the surface Fb exists in the recessed region r1, opposite to the surface F2 and separated by the encapsulation and / or the peripheral opaque element.

3. The illuminateable laminated glass window for a vehicle according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, All outer edges of the outer edge face, referred to as offset outer edges (401 to 404), are recessed r1 from the first edge face. In two or three offset outer edge regions, the second edge face is recessed from the first edge face, or even aligned with or recessed r2 from the outer edge face. The package is located opposite the surface F2 by the recess of the interlayer edge face relative to the first edge face and / or by the recess of the second edge face relative to the first edge face. The package preferably extends at least to the outer edge face (40), and / or the peripheral opaque element (9) is located opposite the surface F2 in the two or three offset outer edge regions. Extending over three offset outer edge regions beyond the outer edge surface and at most to the first edge surface, and, in one or two offset outer edge regions (403), the edge referred to as the reference edge (203), preferably the front edge of the skylight, the second edge surface is aligned with the first edge surface, the package is located opposite the surface F2 by the reduction of the interlayer edge surface relative to the first edge surface, the package preferably extends at least to the outer edge surface (40), and / or the outer edge surface of the peripheral opaque element (9) extends beyond the outer edge surface and at most to the first edge surface.

4. The illuminateable laminated glass window for a vehicle according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, All the outer edges of the outer edge surface, referred to as the offset outer edges (401 to 404), are recessed r1 from the first edge surface. In one, two, three, or four offset outer edge regions, the package is located opposite the surface F2 by the recess of the interlayer edge surface relative to the first edge surface and / or by the recess of the second edge surface relative to the first edge surface. The package preferably extends at least to the outer edge surface (40).

5. The illuminateable laminated glass window for a vehicle according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, All the outer edges of the outer edge face, referred to as the offset outer edges (401 to 404), are recessed by r1 from the first edge face. In one, two, three, or four offset outer edge regions, the package is located opposite the face F2 by the recess of the second edge face relative to the first edge face. The package preferably extends at least to the outer edge face (40), and the interlayer edge face is aligned with the first edge face.

6. The illuminateable laminated glass window for a vehicle according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, All the outer edges of the outer edge face, referred to as the offset outer edges (401 to 404), are recessed by r1 from the first edge face. In 1, 2, 3 or 4 offset outer edge regions, the package is located opposite the face F2 by the recess of the interlayer edge face. The package is located between F2 and Fa, preferably at a maximum of 5 mm and / or at a maximum of the recess r1.

7. The illuminateable laminated glass window for a vehicle according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, All the outer edges of the outer edge surface, referred to as the offset outer edges (401 to 404), are recessed r1 from the first edge surface. In the 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th offset outer edge regions, the second edge surface protrudes from the outer edge surface, particularly recessed from the first edge surface. The peripheral opaque element (9) extends beyond the outer edge surface toward the first edge surface and preferably has an outer edge surface (90) extending to the first edge surface.

8. The illuminateable laminated glass window for a vehicle according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The first edge surface and the second edge surface are rounded, and r1 is the distance from the starting point of the rounded edge of the first edge surface. In particular, the distance between the starting point and the ending point of the rounded edge of the first edge surface is at most half the thickness of the outer plate, and in particular at most 1.5 mm or 1.2 mm.

9. The illuminateable laminated glass window for a vehicle according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The peripheral opaque element extends between the start and end points of the rounded edge of the first edge surface, and in particular, the second rounded edge surface protrudes from the outer edge surface of the first edge surface.

10. The illuminateable laminated glass window for a vehicle according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, In each of the offset outer edge regions, the indentation r1 is a maximum of 5 mm, preferably measured from the starting point of the rounded edge of the first rounded edge face.

11. The illuminateable laminated glass window for a vehicle according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The shielding layer (4) and / or the surrounding opaque element have an optical density of at least 2, and preferably at least 3, at least 4, or at least 5.

12. The illuminateable laminated glass window for a vehicle according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, In one or more offset outer edge regions, the peripheral opaque element (9) has an outer edge surface (90), which is preferably located between the outer edge surface and the first edge surface, in particular: - A membrane, particularly a polymer membrane, which is bulk opaque or colored by an opaque coating, is located within the laminated interlayer (3). - An opaque coating located on the main surface of the laminated interlayer, particularly in contact with surface F2 or surface Fa. - At least one opaque thickness portion of the laminated interlayer, particularly the opaque intermediate layer.

13. The illuminateable laminated glass window for a vehicle according to claim 12, characterized in that, The outer panel is colored, and / or the laminated interlayer (3) includes a colored upper intermediate layer in contact with the surface F2 and a lower intermediate layer in contact with the surface Fa, and an optical isolation layer (92) is located between the upper intermediate layer and the lower intermediate layer, and the peripheral opaque element (9') is connected to the lower intermediate layer.

14. The illuminateable laminated glass window for a vehicle according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, It includes a first light source (5) located opposite the shielding layer (40), the first light source preferably being arranged below the surface Fb (14) and associated with the light steering element (6) or the hole wall of the inner plate, or being the first light source (5) optically coupled to the second edge surface, and preferably, it includes a second light source (5'), particularly first and second longitudinal light sources along the longitudinal edge of the glass, and it includes a light extraction device (7) connected to the inner plate, particularly connected to the surface Fa (13).

15. The illuminateable laminated glass window for a vehicle according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The laminated interlayer (3) comprises an upper intermediate layer in contact with the surface F2 and a lower intermediate layer in contact with the surface Fa, and, between the upper intermediate layer and the lower intermediate layer, particularly above the optical insulating layer (92), comprises at least one of the functional elements selected from the group consisting of: - An electronic control device (93), particularly a device for variable scattering and / or variable coloring, comprising an electroactive layer between a conductive support on the second surface F2 and a conductive support on the surface Fa. - Photovoltaic devices, - Functional membrane.

16. A motor vehicle comprising an illuminateable laminated glass window, which is a skylight, a side window, particularly a fixed side window, or a fixed glass door, said illuminateable laminated glass window according to any one of the preceding claims.

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