Glass assembly and method of manufacturing the same

Abstract

The application provides a glass assembly and a manufacturing method thereof, and relates to the technical field of vehicle glass, and comprises a glass substrate and a heating structure, the glass substrate has a signal transmission area; the heating structure is arranged on the glass substrate, and at least part of the heating structure is located in the signal transmission area, and the heating structure can heat the signal transmission area, wherein the heating structure comprises at least one groove and a heating element arranged in the groove. The application can etch a groove on the surface of the glass substrate and arrange a heating element in the groove by a laser direct writing process to form an electric heating structure, so that the size of the heating structure is significantly reduced, the influence on the monitoring accuracy of the sensor is reduced, and the local rapid heating can be completed in a short time through the heating structure, the functional requirements of efficient defrosting and deicing in a low-temperature environment are met, and the application can be better applied to the front windshield of an automatic driving vehicle.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of vehicle glass technology, and in particular to a glass assembly and its manufacturing method. Background Technology

[0002] With the rapid development of information technologies such as mobile internet, the Internet of Things, cloud computing, big data, and artificial intelligence, society is accelerating its evolution towards intelligence, and the intelligentization of the automotive and transportation sector has become an inevitable trend in technological development. As a core application of intelligent vehicles, vehicle-to-everything (V2X) and Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) require the integration of sensors such as LiDAR and cameras to perceive the vehicle's surrounding environment in real time, thereby providing crucial data support for autonomous driving decisions. In this context, ensuring clear visibility of the onboard sensors in the windshield area has become a crucial prerequisite for the reliable operation of ADAS systems. However, in actual driving, the windshield signal transmission area is prone to fogging or frost due to temperature and humidity differences between the inside and outside of the vehicle, especially in winter or rainy weather. Moisture from the respiration and sweat evaporation of occupants condenses into water droplets on the low-temperature glass surface, severely affecting the clarity of camera images and the accuracy of radar signal transmission, thereby weakening the perception capabilities of the ADAS system and increasing driving safety risks. Existing defogging methods mainly include air conditioning dehumidification and heating. While the former can quickly defog, it causes a sudden drop in interior temperature and poor comfort, while the latter requires a long preheating time, making it unsuitable for use while driving and failing to meet the immediacy and continuity requirements of intelligent driving. Currently, most models on the market rely on the air conditioning system for indirect defogging, with only mid-to-high-end models equipped with localized heating functions for the windshield ADAS area. Common technologies include silver paste printing heating layers and enameled wire heating. However, these existing solutions have significant technical limitations: the minimum wire diameter for silver paste printing is 0.3mm, which affects heating uniformity when avoiding camera interference; enameled wires may cause diffraction interference to the optical lens, reducing image quality; and there is currently no compatible solution for existing heating technologies when the camera and radar share the same glass window. Therefore, how to avoid affecting sensor accuracy and quickly and uniformly heat the glass to eliminate fogging or frost has become an urgent technical problem to be solved. Summary of the Invention

[0003] In order to overcome the above-mentioned defects of the prior art, the technical problem to be solved by the embodiments of the present invention is to provide a glass assembly and its manufacturing method, which is used to avoid affecting the accuracy of the sensor and to quickly and uniformly heat the glass to eliminate fogging or frosting.

[0004] The above-mentioned objective of the present invention can be achieved by the following technical solution: the present invention provides a glass assembly, comprising: A glass substrate having a signal transmission region; A heating structure is disposed on the glass substrate, and at least a portion of the heating structure is located within the signal transmission area. The heating structure is capable of heating the signal transmission area. The heating structure includes at least one groove and a heating element disposed in the groove.

[0005] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the heating structure includes a plurality of grooves, wherein at least one of the grooves is arranged to cross at least one other groove; The heating element is embedded in the plurality of grooves to form the heating structure.

[0006] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the plurality of grooves form at least one mesh structure; the heating element is embedded in the mesh structure to form a heating mesh structure.

[0007] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the number of heating structures is at least one; And / or, the width of the groove is 0.01mm-0.1mm; And / or, the ratio of the depth to the width of the groove is 0.5-2; And / or, along the thickness direction of the glass substrate, the thickness of the heating element is 5µm-200µm; And / or, the equivalent sheet resistance of each of the heating structures is 0.1Ω / □-10Ω / □; And / or, the heating power density of each of the heating structures is greater than or equal to 300 W / m². 2 .

[0008] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the equivalent aperture of the heating mesh structure is 0.3mm-20mm.

[0009] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the heating structure further includes a busbar disposed on the glass substrate and electrically connected to at least a portion of the heating element.

[0010] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the transmittance of the signal transmission region of the glass assembly for light with a wavelength range of 800nm-1600nm is greater than or equal to 75%.

[0011] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the transmittance of the signal transmission region of the glass assembly for light with a wavelength range of 380nm-780nm is greater than or equal to 70%.

[0012] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the groove is disposed on at least one side surface of the glass substrate.

[0013] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the glass substrate is a single piece of glass or a laminated glass; When the glass substrate is laminated glass, the laminated glass includes a first glass, a second glass, and an intermediate layer disposed between the first glass and the second glass, and the groove is disposed on the side surface of the first glass and / or the second glass near the intermediate layer; and / or, the groove is disposed on the side surface of the first glass and / or the second glass away from the intermediate layer.

[0014] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the glass assembly further includes a protective layer disposed on the glass substrate and covering the heating structure.

[0015] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the heating element comprises a conductive material selected from at least one of silver, gold, copper, nickel, zinc and aluminum; And / or, the average particle size of the conductive material is 7nm-100nm.

[0016] The present invention also provides a method for manufacturing a glass assembly, comprising the following steps: A glass substrate is provided, the glass substrate having a signal transmission region; The heating structure is formed on the glass substrate, and at least a portion of the heating structure is located within the signal transmission area. The heating structure is capable of heating the signal transmission area. The heating structure includes at least one groove and a heating element disposed in the groove.

[0017] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, a groove is formed by laser direct writing at a predetermined position on at least one side surface of the glass substrate; wherein the predetermined position at least covers the signal transmission area; The groove is filled with conductive material to form a heating element, which can be used to electrically heat the signal transmission area.

[0018] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, a busbar is added and sintered at the reserved position of the busbar on the glass substrate, so that the busbar is electrically connected to the heating element.

[0019] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, after the busbar is electrically connected to the heating element, the following step is further included: Provide another glass substrate; An intermediate layer is placed between two glass substrates and then pressed together to obtain laminated glass.

[0020] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the glass substrate is flat or curved; When the glass substrate is curved, it needs to be hot-bent first.

[0021] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, a protective layer is applied to the glass substrate to cover the heating structure.

[0022] The technical solution of the present invention has the following significant beneficial effects: The glass assembly described in this invention utilizes a laser direct-writing process to etch micron-level grooves onto the surface of a glass substrate. The heating element is positioned within these grooves, significantly reducing its size and minimizing its impact on sensor monitoring accuracy. Furthermore, since the heating element is at least partially located within the signal transmission area, it can rapidly heat this area, achieving localized and rapid temperature increases within a short time. This meets the functional requirements for efficient defogging and de-icing in low-temperature environments, making it better suited for the windshields of autonomous vehicles.

[0023] Furthermore, by employing laser direct writing technology, the pattern of the groove can be freely edited, and the heating element is placed in the groove, thus forming a high-precision, patterned, and extremely fine heating line. This significantly reduces the scattering and absorption of visible light and infrared wavelengths, achieving a high degree of compatibility between heating function and optical transparency. This gives the heating element an "invisible" effect, enhances the aesthetics of the glass assembly, and reduces signal interference to ADAS sensors such as cameras and LiDAR. It also allows cameras and LiDAR to share the same window, improves the compatibility of the signal transmission area, and ensures the perception accuracy and reliability of the intelligent driving system. Attached Figure Description

[0024] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the present invention, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the accompanying drawings described below are only some embodiments of the present invention. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0025] The accompanying drawings described herein are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention in any way. Furthermore, the shapes and proportions of the components in the drawings are merely illustrative to aid in understanding the invention and do not specifically limit the shapes and proportions of the components. Those skilled in the art, guided by the teachings of this invention, can select various possible shapes and proportions to implement the invention according to specific circumstances.

[0026] Figure 1 This is a side view of one embodiment of the electrically heated glass assembly described in this invention. Figure 2 This is a side view of another embodiment of the electrically heated glass assembly of the present invention. Figure 3 This is a top view of one embodiment of the conductive mesh described in this invention. Figure 4 This is a top view schematic diagram of an embodiment of the conductive mesh and busbar described in this invention; Figure 5 This is the temperature-time curve and thermal imaging image of the sample heating zone in the first specific embodiment of the present invention; Figure 6 This is a temperature-time curve and thermal imaging image of the sample heating zone in the second specific embodiment of the present invention; Figure 7 The temperature-time curve and thermal imaging of the sample heating zone in the third specific embodiment of the present invention are shown below. Figure 8 The temperature-time curve and thermal imaging of the sample heating zone in the fourth specific embodiment of the present invention are shown.

[0027] The reference numerals in the above figures are as follows: 10. Glass substrate; 100. First Glass; 200. Heating structure; 210. Groove; 220. Heating element; 221. Heating network structure; 230. Busbar; 300. Second glass; 400, Intermediate Layer; 500. Protective layer. Detailed Implementation

[0028] The technical solutions of the embodiments of the present invention will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present invention, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0029] Implementation Method 1

[0030] Please refer to the following: Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, an embodiment of the present invention provides a glass assembly including a glass substrate 10 and a heating structure 200. The glass substrate 10 has a signal transmission area; the heating structure 200 is disposed on the glass substrate 10, and at least a portion of the heating structure 200 is located within the signal transmission area. The heating structure 200 is capable of heating the signal transmission area. The heating structure 200 includes at least one groove 210 and a heating element 220 disposed in the groove 210.

[0031] It should be noted that the signal transmission area in this application refers to the signal transmission area of ​​the sensors inside the vehicle on the glass substrate 10. The sensors inside the vehicle include visible light cameras, LiDAR, infrared cameras, etc.

[0032] Overall, this glass assembly utilizes a laser direct-writing process to etch micron-level grooves 210 onto the surface of the glass substrate 10. The heating element 220 is disposed within these grooves 210, significantly reducing its size and minimizing its impact on sensor monitoring accuracy. Furthermore, since the heating element 220 is at least partially located within the signal transmission area, it can heat this area and achieve rapid localized temperature rise within a short time. This meets the functional requirements for efficient defogging and de-icing in low-temperature environments, making it better suited for the windshields of autonomous vehicles.

[0033] Furthermore, by employing laser direct writing technology, the pattern of the groove 210 can be freely edited. The heating element 220 is set in the groove 210, thereby forming a high-precision, patterned, and extremely fine heating line. This significantly reduces the scattering and absorption of visible light and infrared wavelengths, achieving a high degree of compatibility between heating function and optical transparency. This gives the heating element 220 an "invisible" effect, enhances the aesthetics of the glass assembly, and reduces signal interference to ADAS sensors such as cameras and lidar. This allows the camera and radar to share the same window, improves the compatibility of the signal transmission area, and ensures the perception accuracy and reliability of the intelligent driving system.

[0034] In an embodiment of the present invention, the heating structure 200 includes a plurality of grooves 210, at least one of the grooves 210 being arranged intersecting with at least another groove 210; the heating element 220 is embedded in the plurality of grooves 210 to form the heating structure 200.

[0035] By setting multiple grooves 210 and arranging at least some of the grooves 210 in a cross pattern, a groove network 210 can be formed, thereby improving the uniformity and continuity of the groove distribution 210.

[0036] When the heating element 220 is embedded in multiple grooves 210, a more uniform heating structure 200 can be formed on the glass substrate 10. In addition, the heating element 220 is embedded in the grooves 210, which avoids the problems of easy wear and fall-off of traditional surface-printed circuits, and improves the reliability of the glass assembly under harsh conditions such as vibration, damp heat, and high and low temperature cycling.

[0037] In one feasible embodiment of the present invention, a plurality of grooves 210 form at least one mesh structure; a heating element 220 is embedded in the mesh structure to form a heating mesh structure.

[0038] By setting multiple grooves 210 into a grid structure and embedding the heating element 220 in the grid structure, a heating grid structure is formed, which enables the heating element 220 to be evenly distributed, effectively avoiding local overheating or heating blind spots, and improving the defogging and defrost removal effects.

[0039] Furthermore, the line width and spacing of the grid structure can be precisely controlled through laser direct writing technology, forming fine and highly transparent heating lines. While ensuring efficient conductivity, this minimizes the obstruction of light signals, further improving light transmittance and helping to achieve a transparent and aesthetically pleasing "invisible" visual effect.

[0040] Designers can adjust the number and arrangement of the grid structure according to their needs, without making specific restrictions here.

[0041] In one specific embodiment, at least a portion of the mesh structure is arranged periodically. Preferably, all mesh structures are arranged periodically. Periodically arranged mesh structures facilitate the formation of a more uniform heating mesh structure, thus improving heating uniformity.

[0042] In another specific embodiment, at least a portion of the grid structure is arranged aperiodically. This aperiodic arrangement allows for flexible adaptation to the shape boundaries of the signal transmission area or avoidance of specific optical paths, enabling localized heat enhancement or optimization of signal transmission in critical areas, thus improving flexibility.

[0043] In another specific embodiment, at least some of the mesh structures are arranged periodically, and at least some of the mesh structures are arranged aperiodically. For example, the mesh structures in the middle may be arranged periodically, and the mesh structures at the edges may be arranged aperiodically.

[0044] In embodiments of the present invention, designers may adjust the specific shape of the grid structure according to usage needs, without making specific limitations.

[0045] Preferably, the projection shape of the grid structure in the thickness direction of the glass substrate 10 is one or more combinations of rectangle, square, rhombus, polygon, and circle. Replacing the straight edges of the grid structure with arcs or other feasible shapes also falls within the scope of this application.

[0046] In one specific embodiment, the projection shape of the mesh structure onto the thickness direction of the glass substrate 10 is one of a rectangle, square, rhombus, polygon, or circle. Among them, polygons include, but are not limited to, pentagons and hexagons.

[0047] By setting mesh structures with different geometric shapes, the heating path and density distribution of the heating network structure 221 can be adjusted, optimizing local heating efficiency and heating uniformity. Furthermore, by rationally selecting the patterns and their arrangement, scattering and obstruction of visible and infrared light are effectively reduced, further improving optical performance.

[0048] In another specific embodiment, the projection shape of the mesh structure onto the thickness direction of the glass substrate 10 is a combination of rectangles, squares, rhombuses, polygons, and circles. For example, a polygonal mesh can be provided in the central region, and a circular mesh can be provided in the edge region.

[0049] Functional zoning design can be achieved by setting grids of various geometric shapes. For example, high light transmittance patterns can be used in the core area of ​​the signal transmission zone, while high conductivity patterns can be used in the edge area. This balances defogging performance and signal penetration capability, significantly enhancing the adaptability, reliability, and overall performance of the glass assembly in intelligent driving environments.

[0050] In another feasible embodiment of the invention, at least a portion of the groove 210 structure 210 is configured as a straight line segment; and / or, at least a portion of the groove 210 structure 210 is configured as a broken line segment; and / or, at least a portion of the groove 210 structure 210 is configured as a curved segment.

[0051] Designers can adjust the specific shape of the groove 210 structure 210 according to the needs of use, and no specific limitation is made here. For example, in a feasible embodiment, the groove 210 structure 210 is set as a straight line segment, and multiple groove 210 structures 210 are provided, which can be arranged in a horizontal or vertical interval.

[0052] In another feasible embodiment, the groove 210 structure 210 is configured as a curved segment, and multiple groove 210 structures 210 are provided, which can be arranged in a horizontal or vertical interval.

[0053] In another feasible embodiment, the groove 210 structure 210 is configured as a broken line segment that can be bent and extended as needed to cover the signal transmission area.

[0054] In embodiments of the present invention, designers may adjust the specific number and arrangement of the heating structures 200 according to usage needs, and no specific limitations are imposed here. Specifically, the number of heating structures 200 is at least one. When one heating structure 200 is provided, the heating structure 200 at least completely covers the signal transmission area.

[0055] When multiple heating structures 200 are provided, the multiple heating structures 200 at least completely cover the signal transmission area. Furthermore, by providing multiple heating structures 200, each heating structure 200 can be controlled independently, achieving the effect of regional heating.

[0056] Furthermore, the multiple heating structures 200 are relatively independent of each other, so even if one part is damaged, the rest can still perform the heating function.

[0057] In embodiments of the present invention, the designer can adjust the width of the groove 210 according to usage needs, and no specific limitation is made here. Preferably, the width of the groove 210 is 0.01mm-0.1mm. For example, the width of the groove 210 can be set to 0.01mm, 0.02mm, 0.03mm, 0.04mm, 0.05mm, 0.06mm, 0.07mm, 0.08mm, 0.09mm, 0.1mm, etc.

[0058] By controlling the width d of the groove 210 within the range of 0.01mm–0.1mm, the area of ​​light obstruction by the heating structure 200 is reduced, thereby improving the light transmittance and transparent visual effect of the glass.

[0059] In embodiments of the present invention, the designer can adjust the depth-to-width ratio of the groove 210 according to usage needs, and no specific limitation is made here. Preferably, the depth-to-width ratio of the groove 210 is 0.5-2. For example, the depth-to-width ratio of the groove 210 can be set to 0.5, 0.6, 0.7, 0.8, 0.9, 1.0, 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 1.4, 1.5, 1.6, 1.7, 1.8, 1.9, 2.0, etc.

[0060] By controlling the ratio of the depth to the width of the groove 210, the heating structure 200 is ensured to have a sufficient cross-sectional area to guarantee heating performance, thereby helping to improve heating efficiency.

[0061] In embodiments of the present invention, the thickness of the heating element 220 can be adjusted by the designer according to the usage requirements, and no specific limitation is made here. Preferably, the thickness of the heating element 220 along the thickness direction of the glass substrate 10 is 5µm-200µm. For example, the thickness of the heating element 220 can be set to 5µm, 10µm, 20µm, 30µm, 40µm, 50µm, 60µm, 70µm, 80µm, 90µm, 100µm, 120µm, 150µm, 170µm, 200µm, etc.

[0062] By controlling the thickness of the heating element 220, it is possible to embed the heating element 220 within the micron-level grid of the groove 210, thereby effectively reducing the contact area between the heating element 220 and water and oxygen.

[0063] In embodiments of the present invention, the designer can adjust the equivalent sheet resistance of the heating structure 200 according to usage requirements, without specific limitations. Preferably, the equivalent sheet resistance of each heating structure 200 is 0.1Ω / □-10Ω / □. For example, the equivalent sheet resistance of the heating structure 200 can be set to 0.1Ω / □, 0.3Ω / □, 0.5Ω / □, 0.7Ω / □, 1Ω / □, 1.5Ω / □, 3Ω / □, 4Ω / □, 5Ω / □, 8Ω / □, 10Ω / □, etc.

[0064] By controlling the equivalent sheet resistance of the heating structure 200, it is beneficial to achieve rapid start-up heating and efficient energy conversion under low operating voltage, thereby reducing power consumption and thermal hysteresis.

[0065] In embodiments of the present invention, the designer can adjust the heating power density of the heating structure 200 according to usage requirements, and no specific limitations are imposed here. Preferably, the heating power density of each heating structure 200 is greater than or equal to 300 W / m². 2 For example, the heating power density of the heating structure 200 can be set to 300 W / m. 2 -600W / m 2 600W / m 2 -800W / m 2 800W / m 2 -1500W / m 2 wait.

[0066] When defogging, the heating power density of the heating structure 200 is preferably 600 W / m². 2 -800W / m 2 When defrosting, the heating power density of the heating structure 200 is preferably 800 W / m². 2 -1500W / m 2 .

[0067] In embodiments of the present invention, designers can adjust the equivalent aperture of the heating grid structure according to usage requirements, without specific limitations. Preferably, the equivalent aperture of the heating grid structure is 0.3mm-20mm. For example, the equivalent aperture of the heating grid structure can be set to 0.3mm, 0.5mm, 0.7mm, 1mm, 2mm, 3mm, 4mm, 5mm, 7mm, 10mm, 12mm, 15mm, 18mm, 20mm, etc.

[0068] By controlling the equivalent aperture of the heating grid structure, a balance between light transmittance and mechanical strength can be achieved while ensuring sufficient thermal uniformity and heating efficiency. This avoids increased process difficulty due to excessively small apertures and also prevents heating blind spots caused by excessively large apertures.

[0069] Through the synergistic effect of the aforementioned parameters, the electrically heated glass assembly not only meets automotive-grade reliability requirements but also possesses excellent optical performance and thermal response characteristics, thus making it better suited for scenarios in intelligent driving systems that require both defogging accuracy and signal penetration capability.

[0070] In an embodiment of the present invention, the heating structure 200 further includes a busbar 230 disposed on the glass substrate 10 and electrically connected to at least a portion of the heating element 220.

[0071] The heating element 220 can be electrically connected to the terminal block via the bus 230. The terminal block can reliably connect to the vehicle power supply, ensuring the electrical stability and service life of the electric heating path under long-term vibration and high and low temperature environments.

[0072] Designers can adjust the specific forming method of the busbar 230 according to the usage requirements, and no specific restrictions are imposed here. Preferably, the busbar 230 can be formed on the glass substrate 10 by micro-processing techniques such as screen printing, inkjet printing or magnetron sputtering, and is electrically connected to the heating element 220 in the groove 210, thereby forming an electric heating path.

[0073] In one specific embodiment, two busbars 230 are provided and are respectively placed on both sides of the heating network structure 221, and each busbar 230 is connected to a terminal block.

[0074] In another specific embodiment, two phase-insulated heating network structures 221 are provided, and three busbars 230 are provided. One of them is placed on one side of the heating network structure 221 and electrically connected to the two heating network structures 221 respectively. The other two busbars 230 are placed on the other side of the heating network structure 221 and electrically connected to one heating network structure 221 respectively. The other two busbars 230 are respectively connected to two terminals, thereby forming a circuitous electric heating path.

[0075] In an embodiment of the present invention, the transmittance of the signal transmission region of the glass assembly for light with a wavelength range of 800nm-1600nm is greater than or equal to 75%.

[0076] By ensuring that the transmittance of the signal transmission area of ​​the glass assembly for light with wavelengths in the range of 800nm-1600nm is greater than or equal to 75%, this characteristic greatly enhances the capture and transmission efficiency of LiDAR sensors for signals in this wavelength range, thereby improving the signal-to-noise ratio and detection sensitivity.

[0077] Designers can adjust the transmittance of the signal transmission area of ​​the glass assembly for light with wavelengths in the range of 800nm-1600nm according to usage requirements, without specific limitations. For example, in one feasible embodiment, the transmittance of the signal transmission area of ​​the glass assembly for light with wavelengths in the range of 800nm-1600nm is greater than 80%. In another feasible embodiment, the transmittance of the signal transmission area of ​​the glass assembly for light with wavelengths in the range of 800nm-1600nm is greater than 85%. In yet another feasible embodiment, the transmittance of the signal transmission area of ​​the glass assembly for light with wavelengths in the range of 800nm-1600nm is greater than 90%.

[0078] In an embodiment of the present invention, the transmittance of the signal transmission region of the glass assembly for light with a wavelength range of 380nm-780nm is greater than or equal to 70%.

[0079] By ensuring that the transmittance of the signal transmission area of ​​the glass assembly for light with wavelengths in the range of 380nm-780nm is greater than or equal to 70%, this characteristic greatly enhances the capture and transmission efficiency of visible light camera sensors for this wavelength band, thereby improving the signal-to-noise ratio and detection sensitivity.

[0080] Designers can adjust the transmittance of the signal transmission area of ​​the glass assembly for light with wavelengths in the 380nm-780nm range according to usage requirements; no specific limitations are imposed here. For example, in one feasible embodiment, the transmittance of the signal transmission area of ​​the glass assembly for light with wavelengths in the 380nm-780nm range is greater than 75%. In another feasible embodiment, the transmittance of the signal transmission area of ​​the glass assembly for light with wavelengths in the 380nm-780nm range is greater than 80%. In yet another feasible embodiment, the transmittance of the signal transmission area of ​​the glass assembly for light with wavelengths in the 380nm-780nm range is greater than 90%.

[0081] In embodiments of the present invention, the groove 210 is disposed on at least one side surface of the glass substrate 10. Designers can choose to provide the groove 210 on one or both sides of the glass substrate 10 according to specific application scenarios, thereby improving the flexibility of the groove 210 placement.

[0082] In embodiments of the present invention, designers may adjust the specific structure of the glass substrate 10 according to usage requirements, and no specific limitations are imposed here. For example, the glass substrate 10 may be a single piece of glass. Alternatively, the glass substrate 10 may be a laminated glass.

[0083] When the glass substrate 10 is a single piece of glass, the groove 210 can be provided on any side surface of the single piece of glass.

[0084] When the glass substrate 10 is laminated glass, in one feasible embodiment, the laminated glass includes a first glass 100, a second glass 300 and an intermediate layer 400 disposed between the first glass 100 and the second glass 300, and the groove 210 is disposed on the side surface of the first glass 100 and / or the second glass 300 near the intermediate layer 400.

[0085] Specifically, the interlayer 400 is an adhesive film. The first glass 100 and the second glass 300 are bonded together through the interlayer 400 to form laminated glass, which significantly improves the overall structural strength, impact resistance, and breakage safety of the electrically heated glass assembly.

[0086] Furthermore, by positioning the groove 210 facing the intermediate layer 400, the heating network structure 221 is completely enclosed between the first glass 100 and the intermediate layer 400, achieving dual protection of electrical insulation and environmental isolation, avoiding oxidation, moisture erosion and surface wear, and greatly extending the service life and operational stability of the heating network structure 221.

[0087] When the glass substrate 10 is laminated glass, in another feasible embodiment, the laminated glass includes a first glass 100, a second glass 300 and an intermediate layer 400 disposed between the first glass 100 and the second glass 300, and the groove 210 is disposed on the side surface of the first glass 100 and / or the second glass 300 facing away from the intermediate layer 400.

[0088] By positioning the groove 210 away from the intermediate layer 400, the heating network structure 221 is prevented from being squeezed by the intermediate layer 400, thus ensuring the stability of the conductive network structure.

[0089] In an embodiment of the present invention, the glass assembly further includes a protective layer 500, which is disposed on the glass substrate 10 and covers the heating structure 200. By providing the protective layer 500 on the glass substrate 10 and covering the heating network structure 221, the protective layer 500 can provide protection, thereby ensuring the stability of the heating network structure 221. Preferably, the protective layer 500 is an insulating protective layer 500, which will not affect the performance of devices such as cameras, radars, and sensors in the signal transmission area.

[0090] Designers can adjust the specific shapes of the first glass 100 and the second glass 300 according to usage needs, and no specific limitations are imposed here. In one feasible embodiment, the first glass 100 and the second glass 300 are flat glass. In another feasible embodiment, the first glass 100 and the second glass 300 are curved glass.

[0091] In an embodiment of the present invention, the glass assembly is a windshield assembly, and the signal transmission area is the ADAS window. By providing a groove 210 and a heating element 220 on the windshield assembly, and by having the heating structure 200 cover the ADAS window, uniform heating of the ADAS window is achieved, effectively preventing frost, fogging, and snow accumulation. Simultaneously, it ensures high electromagnetic wave transmittance and optical transmittance, significantly improving driving safety and ADAS system availability in extreme environments, thereby better meeting the development needs of intelligent driving and autonomous driving technologies.

[0092] In embodiments of the present invention, the heating element 220 comprises a conductive material. Designers may adjust the specific type of conductive material according to usage requirements, and no specific limitations are imposed here. Preferably, the conductive material is selected from at least one of silver, gold, copper, nickel, zinc, and aluminum.

[0093] By filling the groove 210 with conductive material and forming electric heating wires through a sintering process, the electric heating wires are interconnected to form an integrated heating network structure 221, which is beneficial for achieving fine wires, high transparency, and ensuring heating uniformity.

[0094] In one feasible embodiment, the conductive nanomaterial is a slurry containing metal nanomaterials. The slurry comprises at least one of silver, gold, copper, nickel, zinc, and aluminum, with other components being solvents. Furthermore, one or more other additives or glass powders may be added to the slurry, without specific limitations.

[0095] Furthermore, the average particle size of the conductive material can be, but is not limited to, the range of 7nm-100nm. Designers can adjust the average particle size of the conductive material according to application needs, and no specific limitations are imposed here. For example, in one feasible embodiment, the average particle size of the conductive material is in the range of 7nm-30nm. In another feasible embodiment, the average particle size of the conductive material is in the range of 30nm-70nm. In yet another feasible embodiment, the average particle size of the conductive material is in the range of 70nm-100nm.

[0096] By controlling the average particle size of the conductive material, it is possible to encapsulate the conductive material within a micron-sized groove 210, thereby effectively reducing the contact area between the conductive nanomaterial and water and oxygen. Furthermore, a dense oxide layer can be formed on the upper surface of the conductive material within the groove 210 after sintering, which helps protect the conductive material.

[0097] Implementation Method 2

[0098] An embodiment of the present invention provides a method for manufacturing a glass assembly, the method comprising the following steps: Step S1: Provide a glass substrate 10, the glass substrate 10 having a signal transmission area; Step S2: A heating structure 200 is formed on the glass substrate 10, and at least a portion of the heating structure 200 is located within the signal transmission area. The heating structure 200 is capable of heating the signal transmission area. Step S3: The heating structure 200 includes at least one groove 210 and a heating element 220 disposed in the groove 210.

[0099] The electrically heated glass assembly described in Embodiment 1 can be obtained by applying the manufacturing method of this electrically heated glass assembly. The composition of the conductive material is as described in Embodiment 1 and will not be repeated here.

[0100] In an embodiment of the present invention, a groove 210 is etched at a predetermined position on at least one side surface of a glass substrate 10 by a laser direct writing process; wherein the predetermined position at least covers the signal transmission area; and a conductive material is filled in the groove 210 to form a heating element 220, which can be used to electrically heat the signal transmission area.

[0101] By using laser direct writing technology to etch grooves 210 at preset positions on at least one side surface of glass substrate 10, and filling the grooves 210 with conductive material to form heating element 220, micron-level patterning of heating element 220 is achieved, which significantly improves the arrangement flexibility and spatial adaptability of heating element 220.

[0102] In an embodiment of the present invention, the method for manufacturing the glass assembly further includes the following steps: Step S4: Add busbar 230 to the reserved position of busbar 230 on glass substrate 10 and sinter it to make busbar 230 electrically connected to heating element 220.

[0103] By incorporating busbar 230 and pre-sintering it, a reliable electrical connection is formed between busbar 230 and heating element 220. Designers can adjust the specific forming method of busbar 230 as needed, without specific limitations. For example, busbar 230 can be formed by printing silver paste and then sintered at high temperature.

[0104] Preferably, a reserved position for busbar 230 is provided in the area where the groove 210 is located, and busbar 230 is added to the reserved position and sintered, so that busbar 230 is electrically connected to heating element 220.

[0105] By setting a reserved position for the busbar 230 in the area where the groove 210 structure 210 is located, the installation accuracy of the busbar 230 is improved, so that the busbar 230 can be precisely aligned and firmly connected with the heating element 220, ensuring the interface bonding strength between the two, effectively avoiding the risk of local overheating and functional failure caused by misalignment, loose connection or thermal expansion mismatch, and improving reliability and durability.

[0106] In an embodiment of the present invention, after the busbar 230 is electrically connected to the heating element 220, the following steps are also included: Step S5: Provide another glass substrate 10; Step S6: An intermediate layer 400 is placed between two glass substrates 10 and then pressed together to obtain laminated glass.

[0107] Specifically, the intermediate layer 400 is an adhesive film. By setting two glass substrates 10, which are connected through the intermediate layer 400, and simultaneously stacking and positioning the busbar 230 and the terminal block, laminated glass can be formed after a pressing process. Laminated glass has good structural strength, impact resistance, and breakage safety, thus it can be used as a vehicle windshield.

[0108] In embodiments of the present invention, the glass substrate 10 is either flat or curved; when the glass substrate 10 is curved, it needs to be hot-bent first.

[0109] By hot bending two glass substrates 10, they are made to have matching curvatures, which helps to reduce optical distortion and ensure the signal transmission effect in the signal transmission area.

[0110] In an embodiment of the present invention, a protective layer 500 is coated on the glass substrate 10 to cover the heating structure 200. Preferably, the protective layer 500 is an insulating protective layer 500, which will not affect the performance of devices such as cameras, radars, and sensors in the signal transmission area.

[0111] When the heating structure 200 is positioned facing the intermediate layer 400, the heating structure 200 is completely enclosed between the first glass 100 and the intermediate layer 400, achieving dual protection of electrical insulation and environmental isolation, avoiding oxidation, moisture corrosion and surface wear, and greatly extending the service life and working stability of the electric heating wire.

[0112] When the heating structure 200 is positioned away from the intermediate layer 400, a protective layer 500 is sprayed onto the glass substrate 10 to cover the heating structure 200. The protective layer 500 provides protection, thereby ensuring the stability of the heating structure 200.

[0113] In a first specific embodiment of the present invention, the manufacturing method steps S1-S6 of the glass assembly are used to process a sample, which includes a first sample 1-1 and a first laminated glass sample 1-2. The manufacturing method of the glass assembly includes the following steps: In step S1, a first piece of glass 100 is provided. The glass is white and has a thickness of 2.1 mm.

[0114] In step S2, the grooves 210 are periodically distributed hexagonal grid structures, such as... Figure 3As shown in the figure. The line width of the grid is approximately 0.01mm-0.02mm, the groove depth is approximately 0.01mm-0.02mm, and the period interval s is 7mm. The grid structure pattern is as follows. Figure 4 As shown, the length L of the grid structure is approximately 210 mm, the width W is approximately 40 mm, and the grid structure is composed of periodic regular hexagonal grids.

[0115] In step S3, nano silver paste is filled into the groove 210 and then dried.

[0116] In step S4, a busbar 230 is formed by printing silver paste and then sintered at high temperature.

[0117] In step S6, the first glass 100 is flat glass and does not undergo a hot bending process. The interlayer 400 between the first glass 100 and the second glass 300 is 0.76 mm thick PVB.

[0118] The first glass 100 produced after completing steps S1-S4 is designated as the first sample 1-1; the laminated glass produced according to steps S1-S6 is designated as the first laminated glass sample 1-2.

[0119] The sample is subjected to a heating test, including: testing the heating performance of the heating network structure 221 by supplying power to the heating structure 200 with a DC regulated power supply. The working principle is to apply a certain voltage or current, measure the temperature and hot spot conditions of the heated area, and calculate the heating power density.

[0120] Specifically, the DC regulated voltage meter is model MCH-K3010DNW, with a range of 0-30V. The temperature of the heated area is tested using an infrared thermal imager, model FORTRIC287. The principle of an infrared thermal imager is to use a special electronic device to convert the temperature distribution of an object's surface into an image visible to the human eye, displaying the surface temperature distribution in different colors.

[0121] The test conditions included: testing in a laboratory environment, applying a voltage of 12V between the two terminals of the heating network structure 221, testing the sample vertically, the distance between the thermal imager and the sample being 1.0m, and setting ε to 0.94.

[0122] The surface where the groove 210 of the first sample 1-1 and the first laminated glass sample 1-2 is located is the heating surface. The heating surface is brought close to the direction of the thermal imager. The second glass 300 in the first laminated glass sample 1-2 is brought close to the thermal imager and is recorded as 1-2.2. The first glass 100 in the first laminated glass sample 1-2 is brought close to the thermal imager and is recorded as 1-2.3.

[0123] The performance comparison of heating structure 200 is shown in Table 1, and the temperature change curve of the heating zone over time is shown in the figure. Figure 5As shown in the figure. The results show that the temperature of the heating zone rises to an average of 30℃ after about 5 minutes of voltage application, and then stabilizes after 10 minutes with little difference in value. The heating power density is greater than 300W / m². 2 The heating zone has good temperature uniformity and can be used for rapid demisting.

[0124] The light transmittance of the first laminated glass sample 1-2 was tested using a Lambda 1050 spectrophotometer, and the results are shown in Table 2. Samples with the second glass 300 facing the Lambda 1050 light source are designated as 1-2.2, and samples with the first glass 100 facing the light source are designated as 1-2.3. A laminated glass sample without the heating structure 200 was set up as a blank control; its fabrication steps and experimental conditions were the same as those for the first laminated glass sample 1-2, except that the heating structure 200 was not incorporated.

[0125] The transmission and attenuation of radar waves by glass materials affect the sensor's sensing capability. Different types of glass materials have different transmittance and attenuation coefficients. Generally, glass materials with higher transparency transmit radar waves better, have less attenuation, and thus have stronger sensor sensing capabilities. Test results show that in this embodiment, the visible light transmittance of the first sample 1-1 is greater than 89%, indicating high transparency and minimal impact on radar waves. Compared to the second glass 300, the visible light transmittance of the first glass 100 decreases by less than 0.5%. This may be due to the extremely small grid width and large grid period interval, thus minimizing the impact of the heating element 220 on the optical performance of the laminated glass. For edge-emitting lasers used in automotive lidar, the commonly used wavelengths are 905nm and 1550nm. The results show that the transmittance of the first laminated glass sample 1-2 at these two wavelengths decreases by less than 0.5%.

[0126] In the second embodiment of the present invention, the sample is processed using the manufacturing method steps S1-S7 of the electrically heated glass assembly. The sample includes a second sample 2-1. The manufacturing steps S1-S4 of the second sample 2-1 are the same as those in the first embodiment, except that the length L of the heating grid structure of the second sample 2-1 is approximately 152 mm and the width W is approximately 40 mm.

[0127] In step 7, the groove 210 is positioned away from the intermediate layer 400, and a protective layer 500 is sprayed onto the laminated glass to cover the heating structure 200.

[0128] The test method, instrument parameters, and environmental conditions for the second sample 2-1 are the same as those for the first sample 1-1. The temperature change curve of the heating zone of the second sample 2-1 over time is shown in the figure below. Figure 6As shown in the figure. The results show that the average temperature of the heating zone of the second sample 2-1 rose to about 38°C after about 5 minutes of voltage application, and stabilized at about 45°C after 30 minutes. Calculations indicate that the power density of the heating zone is approximately 722 W / m². 2 The heating zone has good temperature uniformity and can be used for rapid defogging or defrosting.

[0129] In a third embodiment of the present invention, a sample is processed using steps S1-S6 of the manufacturing method for the electrically heated glass assembly. The sample includes a windshield electrically heated glass 3-1 with an ADAS window. The third embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that the heating area is an irregular shape with an area of ​​0.0088 m². 2 The mesh structure consists of periodically distributed square grids with a period interval s of 0.6 mm.

[0130] The DC regulated power supply and thermal imager used in the test are the same as in the first specific embodiment, and the test environment, conditions, and instrument parameter settings are consistent with those in the first specific embodiment. The temperature of the heating zone is tested and recorded, and the thermal image of the heating zone and the temperature change curve over time are shown below. Figure 7 As shown in the figure. The results show that the average temperature of the heating zone rises to approximately 36.5℃ after about 5 minutes of voltage application, and stabilizes at around 40℃ after 30 minutes. Due to the irregular shape of the heating zone, heat accumulation occurs at the top, resulting in heat concentration, but the highest temperature is 45℃ < 70℃, meeting the hotspot design requirements. Calculations indicate that the power density of the heating zone is approximately 630W / m². 2 The heating zone has good temperature uniformity and can be used for rapid defogging or defrosting.

[0131] In the fourth embodiment of the present invention, the sample is processed using steps S1-S6 of the manufacturing method for the electrically heated glass assembly. The sample includes a windshield electrically heated glass 4-1 with an ADAS window. The manufacturing process and process conditions of the fourth embodiment are completely consistent with those of the first embodiment. The length L of the grid structure is 210 mm, the width W is 80 mm, and the center of the grid structure pattern coincides with the center of the glass.

[0132] Among them, the windshield electrically heated glass 4-1 is curved glass. Before the lamination in step S6, the first glass 100 and the second glass 300 are hot-bent at high temperature for 30 minutes, with a heating rate of 4℃ / minute; cooling is achieved by natural cooling with the furnace. The arch height of the curved glass is 11mm, and a 0.76mm thick PVB is sandwiched between the first glass 100 and the second glass 300.

[0133] The DC regulated power supply and thermal imager used in the test are the same as in the first specific embodiment. The test environment, conditions, and instrument parameter settings are consistent with 1-2.2 in the first specific embodiment. The temperature of the heating zone is tested and recorded. The thermal image of the heating zone and the temperature change curve over time are shown below. Figure 8 As shown in the figure. The results show that the average temperature of the heating zone rises to about 40℃ after about 5 minutes of voltage application, and stabilizes at about 49℃ after 30 minutes. Due to the curved surface of the heating zone, local heat concentration occurs, but the highest temperature is 54℃ < 70℃, meeting the hotspot design requirements. Calculations indicate that the power density of the heating zone is approximately 870W / m². 2 It can be used for rapid defogging or defrosting. To avoid localized heat concentration, further optimization can be achieved by adjusting the heating wire mesh parameters.

[0134] In the fifth embodiment of the present invention, the manufacturing method steps S1-S6 of the electrically heated glass assembly are used to process a sample. The sample includes 10 laminated glass pieces, denoted as 5-1 to 5-10. The grid structure pattern and filling parameters are consistent with those in the second embodiment, and the manufacturing process and parameters are consistent with those in steps 1-2.2 of the first embodiment. The sample simulates the situation where the grid structure exists on the second surface of the windshield. This application uses laser direct writing technology to etch grooves 210 on the glass surface, which theoretically weakens the glass strength to a certain extent.

[0135] To test the mechanical effects of the heating structure 200 of this application on the glass, the sample was placed in an environmental chamber at a temperature of -20℃±2℃ for more than 4 hours and then subjected to a drop ball impact test, in accordance with the methods specified in GB-9656-2021 and GBT5137.1-2021 standards.

[0136] Specifically, the steel ball weighed 227g ± 2g, and the impact height was 8500mm-8525mm. During the test, the first glass element 100 of the laminated glass sample with the heating network structure 221 faced upwards, and the steel ball directly impacted the sample. The test requirements for a qualified sample were that the steel ball should not penetrate the sample after impact, the sample should not break into several pieces, and the fragments peeling off from the reverse side after impact should not exceed 15g. The test results are shown in Table 3. The test results show that all 10 samples passed, indicating that the impact resistance (low temperature) of the laminated glass with AiG transparent electric heating prepared through Example 5 meets the standard.

[0137] All articles and references disclosed herein, including patent applications and publications, are incorporated herein by reference for various purposes. The term “substantially constitutes…” used to describe a combination should include the identified element, component, part, or step, as well as other elements, components, parts, or steps that do not substantially affect the essential novelty of the combination. The use of the terms “comprising” or “including” to describe combinations of elements, components, parts, or steps herein also contemplates embodiments substantially constituted by such elements, components, parts, or steps. The use of the term “may” herein is intended to indicate that any described attribute included by “may” is optional. Multiple elements, components, parts, or steps can be provided by a single integrated element, component, part, or step. Alternatively, a single integrated element, component, part, or step can be divided into multiple separate elements, components, parts, or steps. The use of “a” or “an” to describe an element, component, part, or step is not intended to exclude other elements, components, parts, or steps.

[0138] The various embodiments in this specification are described in a progressive manner, with each embodiment focusing on its differences from other embodiments. Similar or identical parts between embodiments can be referred to interchangeably. The above embodiments are only for illustrating the technical concept and features of the present invention, and are intended to enable those skilled in the art to understand the content of the present invention and implement it accordingly. They should not be construed as limiting the scope of protection of the present invention. All equivalent changes or modifications made according to the spirit and essence of the present invention should be covered within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0139] The specific experimental data are shown in Table 1-3:

[0140] Table 1

[0141] Table 2

[0142] Table 3

Claims

1. A glass assembly, characterized in that, include: A glass substrate having a signal transmission region; A heating structure is disposed on the glass substrate, and at least a portion of the heating structure is located within the signal transmission area. The heating structure is capable of heating the signal transmission area. The heating structure includes at least one groove and a heating element disposed in the groove.

2. The glass assembly as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The heating structure includes a plurality of grooves, wherein at least one of the grooves is arranged to intersect with at least another groove. The heating element is embedded in the plurality of grooves to form the heating structure.

3. The glass assembly as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The plurality of grooves form at least one mesh structure; The heating element is embedded in the grid structure to form a heating grid structure.

4. The glass assembly as described in any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that, The number of heating structures is at least one; And / or, the width of the groove is 0.01mm-0.1mm; And / or, the ratio of the depth to the width of the groove is 0.5-2; And / or, along the thickness direction of the glass substrate, the thickness of the heating element is 5µm-200µm; And / or, the equivalent sheet resistance of each of the heating structures is 0.1Ω / □-10Ω / □; And / or, the heating power density of each of the heating structures is greater than or equal to 300 W / m². 2 .

5. The glass assembly as described in claim 3, characterized in that, The equivalent aperture of the heating grid structure is 0.3mm-20mm.

6. The glass assembly as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, The heating structure also includes a busbar disposed on the glass substrate and electrically connected to at least a portion of the heating element.

7. The glass assembly as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, The signal transmission region of the glass assembly has a transmittance of 75% or more for light with a wavelength range of 800nm-1600nm.

8. The glass assembly as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, The signal transmission region of the glass assembly has a transmittance of 70% or more for light with a wavelength range of 380nm-780nm.

9. The glass assembly as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, The groove is disposed on at least one side surface of the glass substrate.

10. The glass assembly as claimed in claim 9, characterized in that, The glass substrate is a single piece of glass or a laminated glass; When the glass substrate is laminated glass, the laminated glass includes a first glass, a second glass, and an intermediate layer disposed between the first glass and the second glass, and the groove is disposed on the side surface of the first glass and / or the second glass near the intermediate layer; And / or, the groove is provided on the side surface of the first glass and / or the second glass opposite to the intermediate layer.

11. The glass assembly as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, The glass assembly also includes a protective layer disposed on the glass substrate and covering the heating structure.

12. The glass assembly as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, The heating element includes a conductive material selected from at least one of silver, gold, copper, nickel, zinc, and aluminum. And / or, the average particle size of the conductive material is 7nm-100nm.

13. A method for manufacturing a glass assembly, characterized in that, Includes the following steps: A glass substrate is provided, the glass substrate having a signal transmission region; A heating structure is formed on the glass substrate, and at least a portion of the heating structure is located within the signal transmission area. The heating structure is capable of heating the signal transmission area. The heating structure includes at least one groove and a heating element disposed in the groove.

14. The method for manufacturing the glass assembly as described in claim 13, characterized in that, A groove is formed by laser direct writing at a predetermined position on at least one side surface of the glass substrate; wherein the predetermined position at least covers the signal transmission area; The groove is filled with conductive material to form a heating element, which can be used to electrically heat the signal transmission area.

15. The method for manufacturing the glass assembly as described in claim 14, characterized in that, A busbar is added to the reserved position on the glass substrate and sintered to make the busbar electrically connected to the heating element.

16. The method for manufacturing the glass assembly as described in claim 15, characterized in that, After the busbar is electrically connected to the heating element, the following steps are also included: Provide another glass substrate; An intermediate layer is placed between two glass substrates and then pressed together to obtain laminated glass.

17. A method for manufacturing a glass assembly as described in any one of claims 13-16, characterized in that, The glass substrate can be flat or curved; When the glass substrate is curved, it needs to be hot-bent first.

18. The method for manufacturing the glass assembly as described in claim 13, characterized in that, A protective layer is applied to the glass substrate to cover the heating structure.

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