Panel unit, glazing unit and vehicle glazing roof for a vehicle roof

Abstract

The invention relates to a panel unit for a vehicle roof comprising at least one panel element and at least one LED film arranged on the panel element. The LED film comprises at least one LED arrangement with a plurality of LEDs and a conductor arrangement with a plurality of conductors in electrical contact with the respective LEDs. The respective conductors extend to a respective connection area of at least one edge region of the LED film. The respective connection area is electrically connected on the one hand to a respective LED group with a plurality of LEDs and on the other hand to a respective sub-control circuit for controlling the respective LED group, so that the plurality of LED groups can be controlled independently by the sub-control circuits connected to the respective connection areas, respectively. The respective sub-control circuit is electrically connected to an interface with a main control circuit connectable to the main control circuit, which is arranged to control the respective sub-control circuits independently. The invention also relates to a glazing unit with the panel unit and a vehicle glazing roof with the glazing unit.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a panel unit for a vehicle roof, the panel unit comprising at least one panel element and at least one LED film disposed on the panel element.

[0002] Furthermore, the present invention relates to a glass unit for the roof of such vehicles, having such a plate unit and a control circuit by which the LEDs of the LED film can be operated or controlled. Background Technology

[0003] Vehicle roofs with LED lighting, which is provided in the form of LED films on plate elements, are widely known in the prior art. For example, adjustable lighting of the vehicle interior or passenger compartment can be achieved through such vehicle roofs with LED lighting, as well as other interior lighting devices.

[0004] Therefore, so-called vehicle ambient lighting is known in the prior art, in which LEDs are installed in the glass roof of the vehicle and used to achieve interior lighting, typically with different colors and brightness levels to achieve different dynamic lighting options.

[0005] To enable such dynamic lighting options, a large number of LEDs are required, each of which needs electrical contact for operation and control. This results in significant wiring needs, which may be incompatible with the limited space on a vehicle's roof. Summary of the Invention

[0006] Therefore, the object of the present invention is to improve such board units with such LED films and corresponding glass units to reduce wiring costs.

[0007] The task is solved by the features of the independent claim.

[0008] Advantageous configurations and extensions of the invention are derived from the dependent claims.

[0009] The plate unit of the present invention is disposed on a vehicle roof, wherein the plate unit includes at least one plate element and at least one LED film disposed on the plate element, wherein the LED film includes at least one LED arrangement structure having multiple LEDs and a wire arrangement structure having multiple wires, which are respectively electrically contacted or electrically connected to corresponding LEDs, wherein the corresponding wires extend to a corresponding connection area of ​​at least one edge region of the LED film, wherein the corresponding connection area is electrically connected on one hand to a corresponding LED group having multiple LEDs, and on the other hand to a corresponding sub-control circuit for controlling the corresponding LED group, so that the multiple LED groups can be independently controlled by the sub-control circuits respectively connected to the corresponding connection areas, wherein the corresponding sub-control circuits are electrically connected to a main control circuit interface, which can be connected to the main control circuit, and the main control circuit is configured to drive the corresponding sub-control circuits independently of each other.

[0010] Therefore, preferably, the sub-control circuit assigned to a specific LED group can control only the LED group electrically connected to it. Of course, it is also conceivable that multiple sub-control circuits can be assigned to an LED group and can control only that group. Similarly, it is conceivable that one sub-control circuit is assigned to only one LED group and can only control that group, while another sub-control circuit is assigned to the same LED group as well as one or more other LED groups, and can only be used in conjunction with that sub-control circuit to control the same LED group.

[0011] Here, the LED film can consist of a single LED film in which LEDs are distributed throughout the film, for example, arranged at regular or irregular intervals. Similarly, it is conceivable that in the LED film, the corresponding LEDs are arranged in groups / clusters, or only in certain areas, or in other ways with arbitrary patterns.

[0012] Another alternative implementation is that the LED film has two or more LED film segments or LED film portions that can operate independently to form individual LED films, or they can be electrically connected to each other and possibly spaced apart and mounted on the side of the board element.

[0013] The plate unit of the present invention can be used, for example, in an openable or operable vehicle roof such as a sliding sunroof or panoramic sunroof, or in a fixed vehicle roof.

[0014] Preferably, the size of the LED film is adapted to the glass or transparent area of ​​the vehicle's roof, but of course it can also cover only a portion of the glass or transparent area.

[0015] If the total size of the LED film does not match the size of the glass area, in the case of multi-layered glass such as composite safety glass, the areas between the board elements without the LED film can be filled with plastic adhesives such as PVB (polyvinyl butyral), TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane), EVA (ethylene-vinyl acetate), CIP (cyclic isophthalic acid polymer), OCA (optical transparent adhesive) or similar materials to compensate for the height difference with the LED film.

[0016] The multilayer glass structure with LED film may optionally include functional films that are mounted between the first glass plate or first plate element and the first plastic adhesive layer and / or between the second glass plate or second plate element and the second plastic adhesive layer via additional plastic adhesive layers.

[0017] The functional film here can include not only switchable films, such as PDLC (polymer dispersed liquid crystal), LC (liquid crystal), or SPD (suspended particle device) and solar cell films located between the first glass plate and the first plastic adhesive layer, but also diffuse films, collimator films, or other structured films or the like located between the second glass plate and the second plastic adhesive layer. Furthermore, the functional film may also include coatings, such as infrared reflective coatings.

[0018] LED films, for example, comprise multiple addressable or non-addressable (micro) RGB LEDs situated on a transparent substrate. The LEDs preferably have dimensions ranging from 0.05 mm x 0.05 mm to 1.5 mm x 1.5 mm, and a height preferably less than 1.0 mm. The thickness of the transparent substrate is preferably from 50 µm to 250 µm and can be composed of any suitable material, such as PET (polyethylene terephthalate), PEN (polyethylene naphthalate), PI (polyimide), COP (cycloolefin polymer), PVB (polyvinyl butyral), and TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane). Other similar materials are also conceivable.

[0019] LEDs are preferably square or rectangular. However, round LEDs are also an conceivable shape.

[0020] LEDs can be arranged on a substrate in a regular pattern or irregular positioning; they can be single or grouped / clustered.

[0021] It is also conceivable, for example, to use larger structural dimensions for the arrangement of individual LEDs, such as up to 4mm x 4mm. To accommodate the trend of increasingly smaller sizes, small monochromatic LEDs such as MicroLEDs (e.g., less than 0.1mm x 0.1mm or less than 0.05mm x 0.05mm) can also be arranged closely together.

[0022] To improve adhesion, transparent substrates may be coated or surface-activated, and may undergo heat treatment or heat stabilization to prevent shrinkage during further processing.

[0023] LEDs are mechanically and electrically connected to wires by soldering or bonding, which are applied to a transparent substrate through printing or etching processes.

[0024] The conductors can be designed to allow LEDs to be controlled individually or in groups / clusters. For this purpose, it may be necessary to make the conductors not single-layered, but rather composed of two or more layers isolated from each other. Furthermore, the conductors can be visible with a width greater than 200µm, possibly intentionally used as a design element, or almost invisible with a width less than 200µm.

[0025] LED films with an LED arrangement can be used with appropriate control devices to illuminate specific patterns, lighting animations, or specific areas on the roof of a vehicle's glass roof, thereby producing dynamic lighting effects. Such LED films with LED arrangements can contain addressable LED systems or matrix circuits.

[0026] Such LED films can be used in different plate units; for example, in a single-pane glass with one plate element, where the LED film is arranged on one side of the plate element, or in a multi-pane glass, for example, with two plate elements, where the LED film is arranged between the plate elements, i.e., in so-called laminated glass or composite safety glass.

[0027] Different types of LED films are known in the prior art, and they differ in terms of technology, LED size and application areas.

[0028] A widely used traditional LED film is the OLED film (Organic Light Emitting Diode). It is composed of organic materials and emits light when electricity is applied. OLED films are very thin and flexible, making them suitable for applications such as flexible displays, vehicle lighting, and portable devices.

[0029] Another variant is the Mini-LED film, in which LEDs are significantly smaller than traditional ones (approximately 100-200 micrometers) and are mounted in large numbers on a flexible film.

[0030] Even smaller are the LEDs in the Micro-LED film (approximately 1-100 micrometers). This technology allows for very high pixel density and very detailed image reproduction.

[0031] Another technology is quantum dot LED film (QLED), which is based on nanoparticles. These so-called quantum dots emit light when excited by an electric current.

[0032] As the demand for LED film control increases, such as to achieve dynamic lighting effects or display images, patterns, animations, or even video or movie clips, the technical requirements for control logic and corresponding LED film wiring also increase.

[0033] For example, with LED films featuring matrix circuitry, individual LEDs can be driven and controlled separately. This characteristic is a major advantage of matrix circuitry because it allows for precise control of the brightness, color, and state (on / off) of each LED. This makes it possible to display complex patterns, animations, and even videos on the LED film.

[0034] Typically, LED films with matrix circuitry are constructed as two-dimensional LED arrays, with these LEDs organized by rows and columns (pixels). The control of individual LEDs is usually achieved through a combination of control electronics and drivers. For example, LEDs are controlled by specialized driver ICs (integrated circuits), which are responsible for power supply and signal control. These ICs can individually control the state (on / off), brightness, and possible colors of each LED.

[0035] The control logic represents intelligent control and sends commands, while the driver IC achieves physical control of the LED by controlling the current to control the LED's light emission. Therefore, the driver IC converts the digital signals received from the control logic into electrical control signals that activate the LEDs in the LED film of the activation matrix.

[0036] The wires extending from the membrane can be individual cables connected to the conductors by, for example, soldering or bonding, or flat cables connected by, for example, ACF bonding (anisotropic conductive film bonding). Of course, flat cables can also be made in contact by soldering or bonding.

[0037] A non-conductive material can be used to underfill the LED to improve its adhesion to the substrate and prevent damage to the connection points with the wires during further film processing. Furthermore, a Glob-Top package can be applied to the LED to protect it for further film processing.

[0038] LEDs can also be protected by planar coverage using optically clear potting compound (LOCA = liquid optically clear adhesive), gel adhesive film (OCA), plastic adhesive layers such as TPU, PVB, or EVA, or plastic cover films such as PET, PI, or COP, or combinations thereof. A combination of a plastic adhesive layer with notches for the LED and a plastic cover film covering it is also conceivable. These materials ensure uniform layer thickness, thus compensating for height variations, especially in areas of the LED film where the LED can cause height deviations across the film.

[0039] The connectors of the wires leading from the LED film, if possible, can be placed at the edge of the LED film, where they are covered by black printing, a cover plate or the like.

[0040] To reduce wiring costs in the LED film, according to the invention, electrical wires on the LED film used to drive and power individual LEDs are guided to the edge and grouped there into connection geometry or connection areas. For example, flat cables (e.g., FPC, Kapton) or flat cables with connectors are connected to this connection geometry or connection area; preferably, each wire in the connection geometry is converted to a flat cable or a single wire of a flat cable. This connection can be achieved by crimping, soldering, ACF bonding, plug connection, or similar methods. The flat cables are then connected to sub-control circuits. Multiple sub-control circuits are preferably interconnected via a bus system and advantageously act as slaves in a master-slave architecture. A corresponding master (formed by a master control circuit) is also connected to the bus system to control the sub-control circuits.

[0041] The board unit of the present invention can be advantageously further designed such that each sub-control circuit is configured to drive and / or power different or the same LED groups respectively. For example, a single sub-control circuit can be assigned to drive one LED group. Accordingly, different sub-control circuits are also provided to drive different LED groups. However, it is also conceivable that an LED group can be driven by multiple sub-control circuits, for example, by two sub-control circuits in the case of a matrix circuit. Thus, different sub-control circuits control the same LED group.

[0042] Furthermore, the board unit of the present invention can be implemented such that the corresponding sub-control circuits are connected to a common bus system, particularly a low pin count high-speed bus system, such as a CAN bus system, with data lines, preferably with data lines and power lines, wherein the main control circuit interface, which can be connected to the main control circuit, is connected to the bus system.

[0043] Here, the bus system can be the aforementioned "low pin count high-speed bus" system (often also called "LPC bus system"), which aims to achieve a relatively high data transmission rate with as few physical lines (pins) as possible. In addition to the CAN bus system, the use of automotive Ethernet communication systems is also conceivable.

[0044] Furthermore, the board unit of the present invention can be designed such that the corresponding connection area terminates at the edge segment of the board element and contacts the corresponding flat cable, or extends beyond the edge segment of the board element and contacts the corresponding flat cable.

[0045] Furthermore, the board unit of the present invention can be configured such that the corresponding flat cable contacts the corresponding connection area via a plug connection, a butt connection, a termination connection, or a lap connection.

[0046] This type of electrical connection, where two connecting partners are connected end-to-end, is widely understood as the aforementioned termination connection or butt joint connection. In electrical engineering, this means that the ends of conductors or components are directly joined together without overlapping or interlocking.

[0047] If two connection partners are connected to each other in an overlapping manner, it usually involves a lap joint or lap weld (also known as a lap joint). In this type of connection, one end of a conductor or component overlaps the other, and then a mechanical and electrical connection is made.

[0048] Furthermore, the plate unit of the present invention can be designed such that the corresponding flat cable and the corresponding connection area are connected in laminated glass or multilayer glass (e.g., VSG), preferably by crimping, welding, bonding or ACF connection.

[0049] Furthermore, the board unit of the present invention can be implemented such that a single LED film is mounted on one side of the board element and extends to a predetermined distance to the edge segment of the board element, or multiple LED films are mounted on one side of the board element and extend to the edge segment of the board element at intervals from each other at predetermined distances.

[0050] Preferably, the LED groups are evenly distributed on the LED film or LED film / film portion, or distributed in groups / clusters spaced apart from each other on the LED film or LED film / film portion.

[0051] It is also conceivable that multiple LED films are installed side by side on one side of the board components, with no gap in between.

[0052] Furthermore, the plate unit of the present invention can be designed such that the plate unit is a single layer of glass with a plate element, or a multilayer of glass with a plate element and another plate element, wherein an LED film or LED film is disposed between the plate element and another plate element.

[0053] In the case of a single-layer glass panel or in the case of a multi-layer glass panel, the panel element can be curved, arc-shaped, or flat. Furthermore, the LED film can be sandwiched between the panel element, which is composed of two glass plates, i.e., embedded in so-called laminated glass. The glass plates can be curved or arc-shaped in the same way and laminated or combined with the sandwiched LED film using adhesive films known in the prior art. In particular, films such as PVB (polyvinyl butyral) and EVA (ethylene vinyl acetate) can be used to bond the glass plate and the LED film.

[0054] Furthermore, the board unit of the present invention can be implemented such that the LED film is equipped with a matrix circuit, which is configured to control each LED of the LED film individually through a sub-control circuit or multiple (e.g., two) sub-control circuits assigned to it. The driving control of a single LED can be performed by one sub-control circuit or multiple (e.g., two) sub-control circuits assigned to it.

[0055] Furthermore, the board unit of the present invention can be implemented such that the corresponding connection area guides each wire beyond the edge region of the board element and arranges it on one side of the edge region of the board element or on multiple sides of the edge region of the board element.

[0056] Furthermore, the plate unit of the present invention can be designed such that the LED film is composed of a Mini-LED film or a Micro-LED film.

[0057] The glass unit of the present invention is disposed for a vehicle roof and includes the plate unit of the present invention and a main control circuit connected via a main control circuit interface, the main control circuit being configured to independently control the respective sub-control circuits.

[0058] Therefore, the characteristics and advantages associated with the board unit of the present invention are obtained in the same or similar manner, and therefore, to avoid repetition, reference is made to the foregoing description of the board unit of the present invention.

[0059] The glass unit of the present invention can be advantageously designed such that the main control circuit has a main controller and / or the corresponding sub-control circuit has a corresponding sub-controller, wherein the corresponding sub-control circuit preferably has a corresponding printed circuit board, particularly a flexible or rigid printed circuit board, optionally with a corresponding microprocessor.

[0060] Furthermore, the glass unit of the present invention can be implemented such that the main control circuit constitutes a master, and the corresponding sub-control circuit constitutes a corresponding slave in the LED control, which is configured in a master-slave architecture.

[0061] The vehicle glass roof of the present invention is preferably used in motor vehicles, particularly internal combustion engine vehicles, electric vehicles (EVs), hybrid vehicles such as mild hybrid vehicles, full hybrid vehicles or plug-in hybrid vehicles (PHEVs), and has the glass unit of the present invention. Attached Figure Description

[0062] Preferred embodiments of the present invention will now be described by way of example with reference to the accompanying drawings. The drawings are as follows: Figure 1 a)-1b) show schematic diagrams of an embodiment of a vehicle glass roof with a panel unit having an LED film according to the present invention; Figure 2a)-2b) Schematic diagrams showing other embodiments of a vehicle glass roof with a panel unit having an LED film according to the present invention; Figure 3 a)-3b) Schematic diagrams showing other embodiments of a vehicle glass roof with a panel unit having an LED film according to the present invention; Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the LED film in a cross-sectional view is shown; Figure 5 A schematic diagram of a composite glass or multilayer glass with an LED film in a cross-sectional view is shown. Figure 6 a)–6b) show schematic diagrams illustrating different arrangements of LED film on vehicle glass roof panels; Figure 7 A schematic diagram of the LED film according to the present invention and its basic power supply and control is shown; Figure 8 A schematic diagram of an embodiment of the LED film according to the invention in another variation is shown; Figure 9 Showing according to Figure 8 A schematic diagram of a variant of a vehicle glass roof with an installed LED film; Figure 10 A schematic diagram of an embodiment of the LED film according to the invention in another variation is shown; Figure 11 Showing according to Figure 10 A schematic diagram of a variant of a vehicle glass roof with an LED film embedded between panel elements; Figure 12 A schematic diagram of an LED film embodiment in another variation is shown; Figure 13 Showing with Figure 12 A schematic diagram of an alternative LED film embodiment in another variant; Figure 14 Showing according to Figure 12 A schematic diagram of a variant of a vehicle glass roof with an LED film embedded between panel elements; Figure 15 A schematic diagram of an LED film embodiment in another variation is shown; Figure 16 Showing with Figure 15 A schematic diagram of an alternative LED film embodiment in another variant; Figure 17 Showing according to Figure 15 A schematic diagram of a variant of a vehicle glass roof with an LED film embedded between panel elements; Figure 18 A schematic diagram of an LED film embodiment in another variation is shown; Figure 19 Showing according to Figure 18 A schematic diagram of a variant of a vehicle glass roof with an LED film embedded between panel elements; Figure 20 A schematic diagram of an LED film embodiment in another variation is shown; and Figure 21 Showing according to Figure 20 A schematic diagram of a variant of a vehicle glass roof with an LED film embedded between panel elements. Detailed Implementation

[0063] In this embodiment, the vehicle glass roof 10 of the present invention is used for a motor vehicle. Preferably, the motor vehicle is an internal combustion engine vehicle, an electric vehicle (EV), a hybrid vehicle such as a mild hybrid vehicle, a full hybrid vehicle, or a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV).

[0064] The vehicle glass roof 10 of the present invention has a glass unit 100 of the present invention, wherein the glass unit 100 is composed of a board unit 200 of the present invention, which will be described in further detail below, and a main control circuit 300, which will be described in further detail below.

[0065] Figures 1 to 3 A top view schematic diagram of the vehicle glass roof 10 according to different embodiments is shown.

[0066] in particular, Figure 1 a)-1b) show schematic diagrams of an embodiment of a vehicle glass roof 10 with a plate unit 200 and an LED film 220 according to the present invention.

[0067] Figure 1 a) An LED film 220 is shown on a plate element 210 of a plate unit 200 of a vehicle roof 10. The LED film has two LED film segments or LED film portions in a strip shape, wherein each LED 221 can be arranged at regular or irregular intervals within the LED segment. The LED segment can be a portion of the LED film in which the LEDs 221 are arranged, or an independently operable LED film or LED film portion.

[0068] In the illustrated case, LED 221 is arranged, for example, in a serpentine pattern within the LED segment. Although not shown, in the case of independently operable LED films or LED film segments, LED film 220 or the corresponding LED film segment may be surrounded by a PVB frame (polyvinyl butyral frame).

[0069] On the contrary, Figure 1b) shows another variant of the LED film 220, namely an LED film 220 with LEDs 221 that are fully distributed, i.e. uniformly distributed over most of the area of ​​the LED film 220, wherein, in the same case, an irregular distribution of LEDs 221 over the area of ​​the LED film 220 is also conceivable.

[0070] In both cases, the LED film 220 with LED 221 is disposed in the transparent area of ​​the panel element 210 of the vehicle glass roof 10. Specifically, the transparent area of ​​the panel element 210 can be surrounded by an opaque frame 180. The opaque frame 180 is preferably printed on the panel element 210, or, in the case of multi-layered glass, is part of the intermediate layer 16 of the panel element 210 (see...). Figure 5 ).

[0071] Figure 2 a)-2b) show schematic diagrams of another embodiment of a vehicle glass roof 10 with a panel unit 200 having an LED film 220 according to the present invention.

[0072] Figure 2 a) An LED film 220 is shown on a plate element 210 of a plate unit 200 of a vehicle roof 10, which has two LED segments or LED film portions in a strip shape, wherein LEDs 221 are arranged in clusters or groups spaced apart from each other in the LED film segments. Optionally, the clusters or groups of LEDs 221 can be controlled by a matrix circuit, but this will be discussed further below.

[0073] also, Figure 2 b) shows an LED film 220 with LEDs 221, which are regularly spaced in clusters or groups on the transparent area of ​​the entire vehicle roof 10. Of course, irregular distribution is also possible.

[0074] Figure 3 a)-3b) show schematic diagrams of other embodiments of a vehicle glass roof 10 with a panel unit according to the present invention, the panel unit having an LED film 220.

[0075] Figure 3 a) A schematic diagram of the vehicle's glass roof 10 is shown, in which the LED film 220 is equipped with a matrix circuit, through which individual LEDs 221 can be driven and controlled. Furthermore, Figure 3 The LED film 220 in a) has two strip-shaped LED film segments or film portions, which are disposed on the panel element 210 of the vehicle roof 10.

[0076] on the contrary, Figure 3b) shows an LED film 220 with a matrix circuit, wherein LEDs 221 are regularly distributed in groups or clusters over the entire transparent area of ​​the board element 210.

[0077] Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the LED film 220 is shown in cross-section. (As shown) Figure 4 As shown, the LED film 220 comprises multiple thin layers and emits light through corresponding LEDs (light-emitting diodes) 221 when powered.

[0078] Therefore, the LED film 20 includes, among other things, a carrier layer (transparent substrate) 22, which is typically composed of a flexible transparent film that serves as the base for the other layers. PET (polyethylene terephthalate) or other plastics are typically used as the transparent substrate.

[0079] In addition, carrier layer 22 includes wires ( Figure 4 (Not shown in the image), these wires can be printed or etched. The wires connect to the LED (light-emitting diode) 221 and lead to... Figure 4 The connection area or connection area 250 on the LED film 220 is not shown but will be described below. If the wires are printed, any suitable printing method can be used, such as screen printing or digital printing, and can be conductive ink or paste, such as silver-based paste.

[0080] Preferably, if the wires are etched, a conductive layer, such as a copper layer, can be formed on the carrier layer 22 before etching.

[0081] It is also conceivable that the carrier layer 22 consists of multiple thin film layers and / or multiple conductive layers, which may have wires.

[0082] The wires can be designed to reach or contact each LED 221 and are preferably designed to reduce the number of visible wires in the finished vehicle roof 10. The wires can be formed before the LEDs 221 are positioned onto the carrier layer 22. The LEDs 221 can be located above the carrier layer 22 and the wires and are electrically connected to the wires.

[0083] Furthermore, the LED film 220 may also have one or more insulating layers 23, which are configured to, for example, prevent short circuits; these insulating layers 23 are located between the LEDs. The insulating layers 23 may also be height compensation layers relative to other layers or components on the vehicle roof. For example, TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) or similar materials may be used for this purpose; in particular, plasticizer-free materials may be used to avoid corrosion problems with the circuitry (e.g., the LED film 220), and adhesives may also be used if the LEDs are bonded to the film.

[0084] Furthermore, the LED film 220 may further have a protective and sealing layer 24, which is the outermost layer relative to the carrier layer 22 and is formed, for example, as a protective film that protects the underlying layers from moisture, dust, and mechanical damage. Again, materials such as PET or special protective polymers are typically used here.

[0085] At the edge of the LED film 220, wires are guided to one or more interfaces 250 for power connection to connect one or more connectors, thereby forming a control and power connection.

[0086] As previously mentioned, the LED film 220 can be mounted on one side of a plate element 210, which is a plate unit consisting of a single layer of glass.

[0087] like Figure 5 As illustrated, the LED film 220 is also preferably arranged between two plate elements 210 that are plate units composed of multi-layer glass (laminated glass (VSG = composite safety glass)).

[0088] also, Figure 5 The diagram shows a plastic adhesive layer 16 provided between the LED film 220 of the multilayer glass and the corresponding board element 210. The plastic adhesive layer 16 is used to bond the laminate formed at least by the board element 210 and the LED film 220 together.

[0089] If the area of ​​the LED film 220 is smaller than the area of ​​each board element 210, an additional adhesive layer 17 can be provided in the areas where the LED film 220 is not present. Typically, the additional adhesive layer 17 can be mounted around the LED film 20 in a frame-like manner and act as a non-transparent frame 180, such as... Figure 1-3 The illustration is schematic, but other designs are also conceivable. However, it should be noted that, for simplicity... Figure 5 The non-perspective frame 180 is not displayed.

[0090] For example, if more than one LED film 220 is positioned in the glass unit, an additional adhesive layer 17 can be positioned between the respective LED films 220.

[0091] Figure 6 a-6b shows schematic diagrams of different arrangements of LED film 220 on plate element 210 of vehicle glass roof 10. Figure 6 a illustrates a case where the LED film has two LED film segments or film portions 2201, 2202, which are formed as LED strips and extend parallel to each other on the plate element 210. Conversely, Figure 6 b) shows another case in which the LED film 220 extends over the entire transparent area of ​​the board element 15.

[0092] In both cases, the transparent area of ​​the board element 210 is defined by a non-transparent frame 180 (e.g., a roof frame). The inner edge 410 of the non-transparent frame 180 is indicated by a dashed line. A portion of the LED film 220 or LED film portions 2201, 2202, i.e., the edge region of the LED film 220 or the edge segment of the LED film portions 2201, 2202 (which protrudes beyond the inner edge 410 towards the outer edge of the frame 180), is located within the non-transparent area of ​​the roof frame. Specifically, the non-transparent frame 180 is used to conceal the edge region of the LED film or the edge segment of the LED film portions 2201, 2202, as well as the electrical connectors or connector areas of the LED film 220 or LED film portions 2201, 2202.

[0093] As previously described, the glass unit 100 of the present invention is also composed of a main control circuit 300 connected via a main control circuit interface 280. This main control circuit is configured to independently drive each of the sub-control circuits 270 of the board unit 200 of the present invention, which will be described in detail below.

[0094] Figure 7 A schematic diagram of the LED film 220 according to the present invention and its basic power supply and driving control is shown.

[0095] In this embodiment, the plate unit 200 of the present invention used for the vehicle glass roof 10 of the present invention—as shown in the figure— Figure 7 As shown schematically, it includes exactly two plate elements 210 and exactly one LED film 220, which is preferably formed as a Mini-LED film or a Micro-LED film.

[0096] In this case, the only LED film 220 is embedded between the two board elements 210. Figure 7 (Only one is shown), and preferably extends a predetermined distance to the edge segment of the plate element 210. Therefore, the outer, and preferably circumferential, edge region of the plate element 210 is not covered by the LED film 220. However, the number of plate elements 210 and LED films 220 can vary. In this embodiment, the plate unit 200 is constructed as multilayer glass, such as laminated glass like VSG, and includes exactly two plate elements 210, wherein, in the illustrated case, exactly one LED film 220 is arranged between the two plate elements 210.

[0097] Alternatively, multiple LED film portions 2201, 2202 can be arranged between the two board elements 210, or only one board element 210 can be provided, on which the LED film 220 or LED film portions 2201, 2202 are mounted.

[0098] LED film 220 includes an LED arrangement structure 230 having a plurality of LEDs 221 and a wire arrangement structure 240 having a plurality of wires, the wires being in contact with corresponding LEDs 221 of LED arrangement structure 230. Figure 7 The symbols in the text are for illustrative purposes only.

[0099] Here, these corresponding wires (which are preferably arranged side by side and extend toward or at the edge region of the LED film 220) are incorporated into the corresponding connection region 250. In particular, the wires mounted on the LED film 220 for driving and powering the LED 221 are guided toward the edge of the LED film 220 and grouped or incorporated therein into the connection geometry in the connection region 250.

[0100] Here, the corresponding connection area 250 is connected on one hand to a specific LED group 260 (i.e., a specific group of LEDs 221) having multiple LEDs 221, and on the other hand to a corresponding sub-control circuit 270 for driving and powering the specific LED group 260 or the LEDs 221 of the specific LED group 260. This is very schematically shown in Figure 7 The description indicates that multiple LED groups 260 (exemplarily three LED groups 260 in the illustrated case) can be independently driven by sub-control circuits 270, each connected to a corresponding connection area 250. Specifically, wires on the LED film 220 extend from the LED 221 to the corresponding connection area 250 on the LED film 250 or its edge segments or edge regions. There, the number of wires is not yet reduced. The reduction of the number of wires is preferably performed according to the corresponding sub-control circuit 270.

[0101] Therefore, the corresponding sub-control circuit 270 is configured to control and power the LED groups 260 assigned to it, or to control their power supply.

[0102] exist Figure 7 In the case shown, the LED group 260 is evenly distributed on the LED film 220, that is, the LEDs 221 are distributed on the LED film 220 with regular spacing between them.

[0103] Here, the corresponding sub-control circuit 270 is connected to the main control circuit interface 280, which in turn is connected to the main control circuit 300. The main control circuit 300 is then configured to independently control the corresponding sub-control circuit 270.

[0104] Preferably, the main control circuit 300 (e.g., including a main controller preferably with a microprocessor) is integrated into the vehicle's roof system. The corresponding sub-control circuit 270 has a sub-controller (with an optional microprocessor), preferably arranged along the edge of the board element 210, and interconnected via cables and plug connections, as will be further explained below. Of course, a rigid-flex printed circuit board (PCB) is also conceivable for electrical connection.

[0105] Therefore, the main control circuit 300 constitutes the master, and the corresponding sub-control circuits 270 constitute each slave in the LED control system configured in a master-slave architecture.

[0106] The master unit has greater computing power and more complex control logic because it plays the role of coordinating and controlling the system or LED control device. Conversely, the slave unit has a simpler hardware design because it is mainly designed to receive commands from the master unit and respond to them.

[0107] For example, the main controller typically also generates content, animations, and patterns that are desired to be produced by running the LED film 220, and may use algorithms, KI (artificial intelligence), and cloud functions for this purpose. Preferably, the sub-controller, implemented as a slave, only distributes signals to the LEDs and coordinates and synchronizes the LED group 260.

[0108] Preferably, the main control circuit 300 has a main controller with a microprocessor, while each sub-control circuit 270 has its own sub-controller with a microprocessor, which is designed to perform simpler tasks than the main controller.

[0109] like Figure 7 As further shown, each sub-control circuit 270 is connected to the data line and power line via a common bus system 290 (e.g., a CAN bus system), and the main control circuit 300 is connected to the bus system 290 via the main control circuit interface 280.

[0110] like Figure 7 As further shown, each connection area 250 terminates at a corresponding edge segment of the board element 210 and contacts a corresponding flat cable 310 therein, which is connected to a corresponding sub-control circuit 270 via a corresponding connector.

[0111] Alternatively, each connection area 250 may extend beyond the corresponding edge segment of the board element 210 and only there contact the corresponding flat cable 310.

[0112] The connection area 250 can contact the corresponding flat cable 310 through plug connection, butt or termination connection, or lap connection.

[0113] Therefore, according to the present invention, the number of wires leading to the main control circuit 300 (via the main control circuit interface 280) is significantly reduced by means of the sub-control circuit 270. This is particularly true because the sub-control circuit 270 is connected at its input to the corresponding power, ground, and data lines, and communicates with the main control circuit 300 via the data bus 290.

[0114] Alternatively, it can be conceivable that the number of power and ground wires drawn from the LED film 220 has been combined and introduced into the flat cable 310 in a combined manner, thereby achieving a first reduction in the number of wires between the LED film 220 and the various sub-control circuits 270 and a second reduction via the data bus 290.

[0115] Furthermore, electromagnetic compatibility (EMV) is improved because components that reduce electromagnetic interference are placed in the sub-control circuit 270 (sub-controller). Since the sub-control circuit 270 (sub-controller) is close to the LED film 220, the wiring length is shortened compared to placing these components only on the main controller.

[0116] In the illustrated case, four connection areas 250 are respectively introduced into corresponding flat cables 310, which extend partially along one side of the board element 210 and eventually extend beyond the edge of the board element 210 and terminate at a connector connected to the corresponding sub-control circuit 270.

[0117] Furthermore, in the illustrated case, it involves an LED film 220 with matrix circuitry, typically a two-dimensional arrangement of LEDs 221 connected in a row-column matrix pattern. Each LED 221 is located at the intersection of a row and a column. To control an individual LED, a voltage is applied to the corresponding row and column. In this case, this is achieved by combining the driving control of a sub-control circuit 270 disposed along the width side (of the LED film 220 or board element 210) with the driving control of the sub-control circuit 270 disposed along the longitudinal side (of the LED film 220 or board element 210).

[0118] Therefore, by cooperating with the sub-control circuit 270 assigned to the width side connection area 250 and the sub-control circuit 270 assigned to one of the three longitudinal side connection areas 250, a specific LED group 260 assigned to these two sub-control circuits 270 is driven and operated.

[0119] It should also be noted, by way of example, that in order to individually drive and control the LED221 in the matrix and display dynamic images, a method based on multiplexing and drift can be applied.

[0120] Therefore, through Figure 7 The basic structure of a glass unit 100 having plate unit 200 according to the present invention is described.

[0121] Other embodiments of the different glass units 100 of the present invention having the plate unit 200 of the present invention will now be described.

[0122] As mentioned above Figure 6 As described in ab, the LED film 220 can be arranged between the board elements 210 in different ways.

[0123] according to Figure 6 a) shows one embodiment in which LED film portions 2201 and 2202 are arranged in strip form on a plate element 210 along a longitudinal edge segment of the vehicle roof.

[0124] on the contrary, Figure 6 b) illustrates one embodiment in which an LED film 220 is disposed over the entire transparent area of ​​a board element 210. Here, the LED film 220 may extend, for example, entirely over the transparent area of ​​the board element, but does not necessarily have to reach the edge of the board element 210. However, the LED film 220 may extend partially beyond the transparent area of ​​the board element, up to or beyond the opaque area with black printing.

[0125] Figure 8 A schematic diagram of an embodiment of the LED film 220 according to the invention in another variation is shown, while Figure 9 Showing according to Figure 8 A schematic diagram of an embodiment of a vehicle glass roof 10 with an installed LED film 220.

[0126] like Figure 8 As shown, the LED film 220 is formed in the form of an LED strip or an LED film portion, while Figure 9 The glass unit 100 has two separate and independently operable LED film portions, in the form of two LED strips spaced apart from each other.

[0127] The LED strip extends longitudinally along the glass unit 100 and, in the present case, can be driven from the width side of the LED strip or board element 210, i.e. from the front side of the vehicle roof for space reasons.

[0128] In this case, the only LED group 260 shown by example (which is assigned to the sub-control circuit 270) includes multiple LED rows, each row having multiple LEDs 221 (three LEDs are shown by example), which are arranged along the longitudinal direction of the LED strip.

[0129] In this embodiment, the sub-control circuits 270 can drive and operate each LED row independently. In this case, it means that all LEDs 221 in an LED row can only operate together, that is, they can be activated or deactivated simultaneously.

[0130] Of course, modifications can be made so that each LED221 in each LED row can also be independently driven, i.e., activated or deactivated, through the corresponding wiring within the LED strip.

[0131] like Figure 9 Furthermore, Figure 9 The image above shows a top view of glass unit 100, in which the LED film portion of LED film 220 is positioned in the form of LED strips and flat cables 310 within multilayer glass (e.g., VSG = composite safety glass or composite glass unit).

[0132] Figure 9 The figure below shows a view of the glass unit 100 from the outside, particularly of the surface of the glass unit 100 facing the interior space of the vehicle.

[0133] from Figure 9 As can be seen from the two views, the flat cable 310 extends from the multilayer glass and bends around a plate element or glass plate, such that the sub-control circuit 270 and the main control circuit 300 are along the glass surface or in the area near the glass edge of the plate element 210.

[0134] Therefore, as Figure 8 As shown, the LED group 260 of the LED film section can be controlled by the allocated sub-control circuit 270, while... Figure 9 In this case, for the two LED film sections, two sub-control circuits 270 are provided, which are controlled by the main control circuit 300.

[0135] Figure 10 A schematic diagram of an embodiment of the LED film 220 according to the invention in another variation is shown, while Figure 11 Showing according to Figure 10 A schematic diagram of an embodiment of a vehicle glass roof 10 with an LED film 220 embedded between plate elements 210.

[0136] In describing this embodiment, to avoid repetition, only those similar to those described above will be used. Figure 8 and Figure 9 In the embodiments, the same parts are indicated by the same reference numerals.

[0137] Figure 10 and Figure 11 Implementation examples and Figure 8 and Figure 9 The main difference in the embodiments is that the LED film 220 is arranged over the entire transparent area of ​​the glass unit 200 or the entire transparent area of ​​the plate element 210. Therefore, in the illustrated case, five LED groups 260 and five sub-control circuits 270 assigned to the respective LED groups 260 are provided, because... Figure 8 and Figure 9Compared to the previous embodiment, a larger number of LEDs need to be controlled in the corresponding LED group 260.

[0138] Figure 12 A schematic diagram of an embodiment of LED film 220 in another variant is shown, while Figure 13 Showing with Figure 12 A schematic diagram of an embodiment of the alternative LED film 220 in another variation. Furthermore, Figure 14 Showing according to Figure 12 A schematic diagram of an embodiment of a vehicle glass roof with an LED film 220 embedded between plate elements 210.

[0139] In description Figure 12 In order to avoid repetition, only embodiments similar to those described above will be described in the present invention. Figure 8 and Figure 9 In the embodiments, the same parts are indicated by the same reference numerals.

[0140] Reference Figure 12 The embodiments shown therein are similar to Figure 8 and Figure 9 The main difference in the embodiments is that the LED film 220 has LEDs 221, which are not individually controllable, but are controlled in groups or clusters CL, and these clusters are... Figure 12 The example shown is a circular LED arrangement.

[0141] LED film 220 with LED clusters refers to a special type of LED film, which, unlike the aforementioned variants, uses non-addressable LEDs 221. The corresponding LEDs 221 are not only arranged in groups or clusters CL, but each cluster CL can also be individually driven via a matrix circuit.

[0142] In such a clustered LED film 220, multiple LEDs 221 are combined into clusters CL. These clusters CL consist of a certain number of closely placed LEDs 221 (or they can be placed arbitrarily), and are controlled as a unit. Instead of each LED 221 being driven individually, the LEDs 221 in these groups or clusters CL are driven collectively.

[0143] like Figure 12 As further shown, each cluster CL is driven by a matrix circuit. Accordingly, one sub-control circuit 270 is arranged on the width side of the LED film 220, and two sub-control circuits 270 are arranged on the longitudinal side of the LED film 220.

[0144] Therefore, the number of control lines can be reduced, because a cluster of CLs can be controlled with a single line instead of a single driver for each LED221, which reduces control overhead and the number of lines required.

[0145] on the contrary, Figure 13 Showing with Figure 12 A schematic diagram of an alternative LED film 220 in another variant embodiment, wherein all wires are directed to corresponding connection areas on the width side of the LED film 220, rather than—for example, as shown in the diagram. Figure 12 As shown – guided to the longitudinal and width sides of the LED film 220.

[0146] Accordingly, the sub-control circuits 270 can be arranged side-by-side on the width side of the LED film 220. For the manufacturing process of the glass unit, it may be advantageous for the wires and cables to be led out only on one side of the multilayer glass, which may result in simpler handling.

[0147] Figure 14 With similar Figure 9 The way shown is based on Figure 12 A schematic diagram of a variant of a vehicle glass roof 10 with an LED film 220 embedded between plate elements 210.

[0148] Figure 15 A schematic diagram of an embodiment of LED film 220 in another variant is shown, while Figure 16 Showing with Figure 15 A schematic diagram of an embodiment of the alternative LED film 220 in another variation. Furthermore, Figure 17 Showing according to Figure 15 A schematic diagram of an embodiment of a vehicle glass roof with an LED film 220 embedded between plate elements 210.

[0149] In description Figure 15 and Figure 16 In order to avoid repetition, only embodiments similar to those described above will be described in the present invention. Figure 12 and Figure 13 In the embodiments, the same parts are indicated by the same reference numerals.

[0150] Figure 15 and Figure 16 Implementation examples and Figure 12 and Figure 13 The main difference in the embodiments is that the LED film 220 with LED clustering function is arranged over the entire transparent area of ​​the glass unit 200 or the vehicle roof 10. Therefore, in this case, compared to... Figure 12 and Figure 13 In contrast, a greater number of sub-control circuits 270 are needed to control a greater number of LEDs 221 or LED groups / clusters CL, resulting in a greater number of LED groups. The additional sub-control circuits 270 also allow each sub-control circuit 270 to be placed relatively closer to the LED it is connected to, which improves functionality.

[0151] Figure 18A schematic diagram of an embodiment of LED film 220 in another variant is shown, while Figure 19 Showing according to Figure 18 A schematic diagram of a variant embodiment of a vehicle glass roof with an LED film 220 embedded between plate elements 210. In describing this embodiment, to avoid repetition, only those previously described will be illustrated. Figure 12 and Figure 14 In the embodiments, the same parts are indicated by the same reference numerals.

[0152] Figure 18 and Figure 19 Implementation examples and Figure 12 and Figure 14 The main difference in the embodiments is that the LED film 220 is equipped with a matrix circuit, so that each LED 221 can be individually driven by the sub-control circuit 270 assigned to it.

[0153] Figure 20 A schematic diagram of an embodiment of LED film 220 in another variant is shown, while Figure 21 Showing according to Figure 20 A schematic diagram of a variant embodiment of a vehicle glass roof 10 with an LED film 220 embedded between plate elements 210. In describing this embodiment, to avoid repetition, only those previously described will be used. Figure 18 and Figure 19 In the embodiments, the same parts are indicated by the same reference numerals.

[0154] Figure 20 and Figure 21 Implementation examples and Figure 18 and Figure 19 The main difference in the embodiments is that the LED film 220 with matrix circuitry extends over the entire transparent area of ​​the glass unit 100.

[0155] Therefore, in the case shown, a greater number of LEDs 221 and sub-control circuits 270 are provided to them.

[0156] The features of the invention disclosed in the foregoing description, drawings, and claims, whether individually or in any combination, may be important for realizing the invention.

[0157] List of reference numerals in the attached diagram: 10 vehicles with glass roofs 16 plastic adhesive layers 17 adhesive layers 22. Carrier layer (transparent substrate) 23 Insulation Layers 24 protective and sealing layers 100 glass units 180° non-perspective frame 200 board unit 210 board components 220 LED film 221 LED 230 LED arrangement structure 240 conductor layout structure 250 connection area 260 LED group 270 sub-control circuit 280 main control circuit interface 290 bus system 300 main control circuit 310 flat cable 410 Inner edge.

Claims

1. A panel unit (200) for a vehicle roof (10), wherein the panel unit (200) includes at least one panel element (210) and at least one LED film (220) disposed on the panel element (210). The LED film (220) includes at least one LED arrangement structure (230) having multiple LEDs and a wire arrangement structure (240) having multiple wires, which are in electrical contact with the corresponding LEDs. The corresponding wires extend to the corresponding connection area (250) at at least one edge region of the LED film (220). The corresponding connection area (250) is electrically connected on one hand to the corresponding LED group (260) having multiple LEDs and on the other hand to the corresponding sub-control circuit (270) for driving the corresponding LED group (260), so that the multiple LED groups (260) can be driven independently by the sub-control circuit (270) connected to the corresponding connection area (250) respectively. The corresponding sub-control circuit (270) is electrically connected to the main control circuit interface (280), which is connected to the main control circuit (300), which is configured to drive the corresponding sub-control circuit (270) independently.

2. The plate unit (200) according to claim 1, wherein, The corresponding sub-control circuit (270) is configured to drive and / or supply power to different or the same LED groups (260) respectively.

3. The plate unit (200) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The corresponding sub-control circuits (270) are connected via a common bus system (290), wherein the main control circuit interface (280) that can be connected to the main control circuit (300) is connected to the bus system (290).

4. The plate unit (200) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The corresponding connection area (250) terminates at the edge segment of the board element (210) and contacts the corresponding flat cable (310), or extends beyond the edge segment of the board element (210) and contacts the corresponding flat cable (310).

5. The plate unit (200) according to claim 4, wherein, The corresponding flat cable (310) contacts the corresponding connection area (250) by plug connection, butt or termination connection, or lap connection, preferably by crimping, welding, bonding or ACF bonding.

6. The plate unit (200) according to claim 4, wherein, The corresponding flat cable (310) is connected to the corresponding connection area (250) in the laminated glass.

7. The plate unit (200) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, A single LED film (220) is mounted on one side of the plate element and extends to a defined distance relative to the edge segment of the plate element (210), or multiple LED films (220) or LED film portions are mounted on one side of the plate element and extend to a defined distance relative to the edge segment of the plate element (210) at intervals from each other.

8. The plate unit (200) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The LED groups (260) are uniformly distributed on one or more LED films (220) or LED film portions, or are distributed in groups spaced apart from each other on one or more LED films (220) or LED film portions.

9. The plate unit (200) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The plate unit is constructed as a multilayer glass with a plate element (210) and another plate element, and an LED film (220) or multiple LED films (220) are installed between the plate element and the other plate element.

10. The plate unit (200) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The LED film (220) is equipped with a matrix circuit, which is configured to individually drive each LED (221) of the LED film (220) through one or more sub-control circuits (270) assigned to it.

11. The plate unit (200) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The corresponding connection area (250) guides the corresponding wires beyond the edge area of ​​the board element and arranges them at the edge area on one side of the board element or at the edge area on multiple sides of the board element.

12. The plate unit (200) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The LED film (220) is composed of a Mini-LED film or a Micro-LED film.

13. A glass unit (100) for a vehicle roof (10), wherein, The glass unit (100) includes a plate unit (200) according to any one of the preceding claims and a main control circuit (300) connected via a main control circuit interface (280), the main control circuit being configured to drive the respective sub-control circuits (270) independently of each other.

14. The glass unit (100) according to claim 13, wherein, The main control circuit (300) has a main controller and / or the corresponding sub-control circuit (270) has a corresponding sub-controller.

15. The glass unit (100) according to any one of claims 13 or 14, wherein, The main control circuit (300) constitutes the host and the corresponding sub-control circuit (270) constitutes the corresponding slave in the LED control device configured in a master-slave architecture.

16. A vehicle glass roof (10) for motor vehicles, particularly internal combustion engine vehicles, electric vehicles, and hybrid vehicles, having a glass unit (100) according to any one of claims 13 to 15.

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