Glass panel assembly with switchable film electrical connection for vehicle roof and corresponding vehicle

Abstract

A glass panel assembly for a roof of a vehicle, comprising: a first glass panel, a second glass panel, a switchable film arranged in a space between both, the switchable film consisting of a stack comprising a first electrode layer, a switchable material layer, and a second electrode layer opposite the first electrode layer; a first carrier film arranged between the first electrode layer and the first glass panel; a second carrier film arranged between the second electrode layer and the second glass panel; the second electrode layer and the second carrier film extending beyond an edge of at least the switchable material layer to define a surface of the second electrode layer not covered by the switchable material layer; at least one busbar arranged on the surface of the second electrode layer not covered by the switchable material layer, configured to provide an electrical connection to the second electrode layer; a barrier film covering at least the edge of the switchable material layer and a portion of the surface comprising the at least one busbar; the barrier film comprising at least one electrically conductive trace arranged in contact with the at least one busbar.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a glass panel assembly with electrical connections for controlling a switchable diaphragm. This glass panel assembly is particularly suitable for use in vehicle roofs or windows. Background Technology

[0002] Switchable glass, also known as smart glass, is an innovative glass material capable of controlling or adjusting its light transmission properties. This technology allows the glass to switch between transparent and translucent or opaque states, meaning that, for example, the view through the glass can be intentionally limited or even completely blocked. This adjustment is typically controlled electrically, such as by applying voltage, or through other methods such as thermal control, light control, or manual control. Switchable glass employs various technologies, including liquid crystal glass (LC), which has a liquid crystal layer sandwiched between two transparent conductive layers. When a voltage is applied to the liquid crystal, it changes its spatial orientation, thus affecting the glass's transparency.

[0003] One such technology is polymer-dispersed liquid crystal (PDLC) technology. PDLC glass comprises a layer of microscopic liquid crystal particles embedded in a polymer matrix composite material. This layer is encapsulated between two sheets of glass or transparent plastic. Transparent conductive layers are located on both sides of the PDLC layer, allowing a voltage to be applied. In its natural state (without applied voltage), the liquid crystal particles align randomly, causing light scattering, and the glass appears milky white and translucent or opaque, for example, to provide privacy. However, when a voltage is applied, the polymer liquid crystals align parallel to each other, making the glass transparent to light. Because PDLC technology is voltage-controlled, these glass panels can also be integrated into automated home or building systems to improve energy efficiency, comfort, and safety. In recent years, PDLC technology has made significant progress in durability, efficiency, and product variety.

[0004] Suspended particle devices (SPDs) contain particles suspended in an embedded liquid, the orientation of which changes with the application of voltage. As mentioned earlier, this also affects the light transmittance of the glass.

[0005] For applications such as those in motor vehicles (particularly glass roofs, side or rear windows, and interior partition windows, such as those in taxis), such switchable glass typically comprises two parallel and oppositely positioned polyethylene terephthalate (PET) films, each in contact with a corresponding transparent conductive layer that forms the electrode of the switchable material layer. The transparent conductive layer may include a transparent conductive oxide (TCO) layer, which may be formed, for example, from a material containing indium tin oxide (ITO). The PET films may encapsulate a stack consisting of the transparent conductive oxide (TCO) layer sandwiching the actual switchable material (liquid crystal, PDLC, SPD, etc.). This encapsulation is integrally embedded between the inner and outer glass panels of the motor vehicle, wherein, for example, a protective interlayer formed of hot-melt resin or adhesive (such as polyvinyl butyral (PVB)) is bonded between each of the two glass panels and the intermediate switchable film stack.

[0006] Electrical contact between the two transparent conductive layers can be achieved using busbars. While the electrode layer materials may be well-suited for creating the necessary electric field on the switchable membrane material to allow it to switch between opaque and transparent states, their relatively high resistivity compared to metals means they don't always provide a uniform and sufficient current over a large area. Busbars solve this problem by acting as low-resistance current paths at the edges or boundaries of the membrane. Busbars are typically made of highly conductive materials such as copper or silver and are applied directly to the outer surface of the transparent electrode layers. This design ensures that when a power source is applied, the current is efficiently and uniformly distributed across the entire surface of the electrode layers, thus guaranteeing consistent switching performance of the switchable membrane material across the entire membrane.

[0007] Busbars can be applied to switchable membranes in several ways, including screen printing with conductive inks, sputtering, or bonding pre-fabricated metal strips. Furthermore, the busbars need to establish an electrical connection to the outside to obtain power. For this purpose, an electrical connection is typically established with the busbar using conductive tape (e.g., made of copper), applied via a conductive voltage-sensitive adhesive. In this case, the conductive tape enables the connection between the busbar and an external connector. The conductive tape is easy to apply and generates minimal stress when placed on the switchable membrane material (i.e., the transparent conductive oxide (TCO) layer). Copper tape with conductive adhesive eliminates the need for soldering, thus reducing the risk of thermal damage to materials such as PDLC or SPD. However, on the other hand, soldering is typically required to connect the conductive tape to connectors such as polyimide connectors or flexible wiring, as a certain degree of mechanical rigidity is necessary.

[0008] However, in this situation, welding generates heat effects that can damage the transparent conductive oxide (TCO) layer and the PET film above it in adjacent areas. This heat effect can reduce the yield rate of the switchable film. Furthermore, welding is a costly process due to the need for solder. Therefore, it is necessary to reduce the heat effect and lower costs when achieving the electrical connection between the transparent conductive oxide (TCO) layer and the corresponding busbar.

[0009] Furthermore, the edges of switchable material layers are often susceptible to the migration of plasticizers present in protective interlayers made of materials such as polyvinyl butyral (PVB). Such plasticizers can cause so-called edge failure, where the intended function of particles within the switchable membrane may be severely impaired in the corresponding boundary region when an electric field is applied to the electrode layer. To address this, a thin, single PET film or insert is typically applied to the exposed edge region, or a liquid sealant is applied to that area.

[0010] However, a drawback of liquid edge sealants is the need for additional materials (typically long-chain undercoatings) to fill the spaces between the glass plates or protective interlayers and between the glass plates or interlayers and the transparent conductive oxide (TCO) layer surface. This additional material and corresponding process steps can further increase the manufacturing cost and cycle time of switchable glass.

[0011] On the other hand, adding PET inserts to the exposed surface of the transparent conductive oxide (TCO) layer in the edge region and / or between the interlayers could be considered. However, PET inserts do not have adhesive properties, so mechanical fixation may not be strong enough.

[0012] European patent application EP3802118A1 discloses a composite glass plate comprising a stack of switchable films sandwiched between a glass plate and corresponding polyvinyl butyral (PVB) interlayers. One carrier film (e.g., made of PET) extends beyond the opposing carrier film in the stack, forming an edge region covered with a transparent conductive layer. A barrier film is disposed on this edge region and on adjacent edge regions of the opposing carrier film. This barrier film prevents plasticizers in the PVB material of the interlayer from diffusing through the barrier film into the switchable material layer within the stack. The barrier film may be made of PET.

[0013] Chinese patent application CN111708200A discloses the use of polyester film edge sealing material to seal the edges of PDLC layers to prevent plasticizers from entering and damaging the PDLC material. Summary of the Invention

[0014] The purpose of this invention is to provide a switchable glass plate assembly with electrical contacts for a switchable membrane, which prevents plasticizer migration into the switchable layer material, thereby avoiding degradation of the switchable function, while improving the electrical and mechanical connections of related components.

[0015] According to aspects and embodiments of the present invention, a glass panel assembly is provided, particularly for a vehicle roof, comprising: a first glass panel, a second glass panel, and a switchable film disposed in the space between the first glass panel and the second glass panel, the switchable film being composed of a first electrode layer, a switchable material layer and a second electrode layer opposite to the first electrode layer; a first carrier film disposed between the first electrode layer and the first glass panel, and a second carrier film disposed between the second electrode layer and the second glass panel.

[0016] The second electrode layer and the second carrier film extend beyond the first edge of at least the switchable material layer to define a surface of the second electrode layer that is not covered by or in contact with the switchable material layer. At least one busbar is disposed on the surface of the second electrode layer that is not covered by the switchable material layer.

[0017] A barrier film is also provided, which covers at least a first edge of a switchable material layer and a portion of its surface including at least one busbar. The barrier film includes at least one conductive trace configured to contact at least one busbar to provide an electrical connection to a second electrode layer via the at least one busbar.

[0018] The barrier film can have the property of preventing plasticizer migration into the switchable material layer, and the exposed edges of the switchable material layer are covered by the barrier film. Preferably, the barrier film completely covers the exposed edges of the switchable material layer. Simultaneously, the barrier film includes conductive traces to provide electrical connections with busbars and, consequently, with the corresponding electrode layers. Therefore, the barrier film solves two completely different problems simultaneously: electrical connection and protection of the switchable material layer. This saves material, reduces component manufacturing effort, and shortens cycle time, thereby saving costs. The barrier film can have sufficient thickness to ensure that plasticizers do not accidentally migrate to the edges through it. However, this thickness has proven to be moderate, such that the additional height of the stack comprising the carrier film, electrode layers, and switchable material layer can be compensated for by a protective interlayer (e.g., made of polyvinyl butyral (PVB) or ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer (EVA)).

[0019] The busbar may extend along the outer edge of the second electrode layer, spanning the width of the second electrode layer (or a corresponding segment thereof), to provide a uniform current flow through the second electrode layer, since the resistivity of the electrode layer may be greater than that of the busbar. At least one busbar may be implemented, for example, by screen printing conductive ink onto the surface of the second electrode layer. The conductive ink may comprise highly conductive materials such as copper or silver. These properties of the busbar are particularly advantageous when used in conjunction with a barrier film bearing conductive traces.

[0020] The barrier film can be provided, for example, as an insert, placed above and on the edges of surfaces not covered by the switchable material layer. Considering placement tolerances during assembly, the busbar extension dimensions are adapted to align the conductive traces with the busbar. The conductive traces disposed in the barrier film preferably have pad-like extensions to ensure sufficient overlap between the conductive traces and the busbar.

[0021] According to a particularly advantageous embodiment, at least one busbar and at least one conductive trace are interconnected via one or more conductive contacts. The barrier film itself may lack adhesive properties, and those skilled in the art would otherwise likely not consider it as a carrier for conductive traces near the busbar. However, when using crimp contacts, mechanical fixation and stability have proven very adequate, particularly with two crimp contacts used for each conductive trace and busbar to avoid excessive in-plane torsional moments. Furthermore, the crimp connection allows the conductive trace to be well-positioned within the barrier film; i.e., according to a particular embodiment, the conductive trace is embedded within the barrier film because the crimp contacts can extend through the barrier film and, for example, can be supported in an adjacent carrier film. The embedded overlay arrangement of the conductive trace improves electrical insulation and allows the trace to be guided outside the space between the glass plates to the connector.

[0022] It should be noted that conductive traces can also be alternatively disposed on the barrier film (i.e., not within the barrier film). Conductive traces can also be partially embedded within the barrier film and partially disposed on the barrier film.

[0023] According to an embodiment, the conductive traces are preferably formed of the same group of conductive materials used in the busbars. However, according to other embodiments, the conductive materials used in the busbars and conductive traces may be different.

[0024] According to one embodiment, if multiple busbars need to be electrically connected, multiple conductive traces can be arranged in the barrier film. The conductive traces can then be arranged side-by-side in the horizontal direction of the barrier film, or even in the vertical direction, which significantly reduces the footprint required for the arrangement. Therefore, the edge regions required for electrical connections to the electrode layers can be designed with a smaller width, thereby increasing the area of ​​the glass assembly available for light transmission.

[0025] According to one embodiment, at least one conductive trace is a printed conductive trace. Therefore, the positional accuracy of the conductive trace can be improved, and the cross-sectional dimensions can be precisely controlled.

[0026] It should be noted that the first electrode layer and the second electrode layer can be implemented as transparent conductive oxide (TCO) layers, more specifically as layers formed of indium tin oxide (ITO). It should also be noted that the switchable material layer can include the aforementioned PDLC, liquid crystal (LC), or SPD layers. If a protective interlayer is present, it can be provided between the first carrier film and the first glass plate on one side and between the second carrier film and the second glass plate on the other side. In this case, plasticizer migration may be most critical, therefore embodiments of the present invention become particularly advantageous when it relates to composite glass plates used to provide safety glass. The protective interlayer can be formed of polyvinyl butyral (PVB) or ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer (EVA), etc.

[0027] According to another embodiment of the glass panel assembly, the barrier film is formed of the same material as the first and second carrier films, preferably polyethylene terephthalate (PET). Therefore, fewer different materials are involved, and material compatibility is improved. The manufacturing of the glass panel assembly is thus simplified, and costs are reduced.

[0028] In another embodiment of the glass plate assembly, the barrier film is formed of Kapton (polyimide) or PET (polyethylene terephthalate). These materials have excellent properties in terms of temperature stability and electrical insulation, which are very important in this application.

[0029] According to embodiments, the total thickness of the barrier film may be 25 micrometers or more and / or 150 micrometers or less.

[0030] The barrier film may be provided as an insert, which may extend, for example, along at least one of the four sides of the glass plate assembly.

[0031] According to one embodiment, the edge covered by the barrier film can be partially formed, including a cut edge of a stack having a switchable material layer, a first electrode layer, and a first carrier film. During manufacturing, the edge can be formed by removing corresponding edge portions of the switchable material layer, the first electrode layer, and the first carrier film, while retaining corresponding edge portions of the second electrode layer and the second carrier film, thereby exposing the surface of the second electrode layer that ultimately faces the first glass plate after assembly.

[0032] In this embodiment, the barrier film extends along the edge, covering not only the portion of the second electrode layer not covered by the switchable material layer, but also a portion of the top surface of the first carrier film facing the first glass plate. This configuration ensures that the barrier film has sufficient width on both sides of the exposed edge of the switchable layer (in a direction perpendicular to the edge extension) to more reliably prevent plasticizer migration.

[0033] According to another embodiment, the second electrode layer is divided into two or more electrically isolated segments. Segmentation is common in the art, but is particularly advantageous with respect to aspects and embodiments of the invention because, as mentioned above, the barrier film can comprise a large number of conductive traces, which can be arranged side-by-side and / or even one above the other. Each segment is provided with a busbar, wherein the barrier film extends along its edge such that each corresponding busbar contacts a corresponding conductive trace to provide electrical connection to each segment of the second electrode layer via at least one corresponding busbar.

[0034] In cases where the aforementioned conductive traces can be arranged one above the other within the barrier membrane, an insulating material can be provided between the traces to allow electrical isolation between the conductive traces on the barrier membrane and other sections of the membrane and busbars, thereby maintaining functionality. This can be achieved, for example, by appropriately designing the conductive traces on / within the barrier membrane. Another insulation option is to provide an insulating material covering the conductive traces that does not include the connection area with, for example, the associated busbar.

[0035] According to another embodiment, the barrier film is folded around an inclined corner of a stack comprising a first carrier film, a first electrode layer, a switchable material layer, a second electrode layer, and a second carrier film. This particularly advantageous aspect allows the use of a single barrier film as a single insert, wound around the edge of the stack, and contacting, for example, all relevant busbars (whether operating voltage or common voltage) via corresponding conductive traces disposed therein and / or on it. Therefore, the number of process steps and components can be further reduced.

[0036] According to a more specific arrangement, a first edge extends along a first side edge of the stack, and at least a second edge of the switchable material layer extends along a second side edge of the stack. The first and second edges extend substantially orthogonally to each other. In view of this, the surface of the second electrode layer is now referred to as the first surface not covered by the switchable material layer. The first surface is used to receive a busbar to provide, for example, an operating voltage potential. Then, the second surface not covered by the switchable material layer and used to provide, for example, a common potential is formed as follows: the first electrode layer and the first carrier film extend beyond the second edge to form the second surface of the first electrode layer not covered by the switchable material layer.

[0037] In this configuration, the first surface not covered by the switchable material layer faces the second glass plate, and the second surface not covered by the switchable material layer faces the first glass plate.

[0038] A common busbar is arranged on the second surface of the first electrode layer that is not covered by the switchable material layer, and a barrier film extends continuously along the first and second side edges to cover at least the first and second edges of the switchable material layer and portions of both surfaces including all the busbars.

[0039] Here, the barrier film includes multiple conductive traces, each conductive trace being configured to contact a corresponding busbar to provide electrical connection to the first electrode layer and the second electrode layer.

[0040] According to this embodiment, the barrier film can be folded such that its fold lines extend at a 45° angle relative to each of the first and second side edges. In an advantageous improvement, the edges of the corners of the stack can be similarly inclined, such that the fold lines of the barrier film rest on the inclined edges of the corners.

[0041] Another aspect of the invention provides a vehicle that includes the aforementioned glass panel assembly, for example as a roof component, an exterior window, or an interior window.

[0042] Some of the foregoing aspects are disclosed in the independent claims. Other embodiments of the invention are provided in the appended dependent claims. Attached Figure Description

[0043] The aspects and embodiments of the present invention will become more apparent from the following detailed description of preferred embodiments in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Wherein: Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a vehicle is shown, including a roof in which a glass panel assembly according to one embodiment is disposed; Figure 2 A partial cross-sectional view of the switchable film stack of the glass plate assembly according to the first embodiment is shown; Figure 3 It shows Figure 2 A partial cross-sectional view of the switchable film stack, and the protective interlayer and glass plate holding the stack; Figure 4 A partial transparent plan view of the switchable film stack of the glass plate assembly according to the first embodiment is shown; Figure 5 A plan view showing the superposition of a glass plate and a switchable film stack is shown; Figure 6 A partial transparent plan view of the switchable film stack of the glass plate assembly according to the second embodiment is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0044] In the following description of preferred embodiments, it should be noted that the aspects of this disclosure are not limited to the details of the structure and arrangement of the components shown in the following description. Embodiments can be implemented or carried out in various ways. It should also be noted that the expressions and terminology used herein are for the purpose of the specific description only and should not be construed as limiting by those skilled in the art. Furthermore, in the following description, the same reference numerals in the example embodiments or drawings denote the same or similar features or objects; therefore, in some cases, to maintain the brevity and clarity of the description, the same features will not be described in detail again.

[0045] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of a vehicle 100 is shown, which includes a roof 120 in which a glass panel assembly 1 according to an embodiment disclosed herein is disposed. In a particular embodiment, the vehicle 100 may be a motor vehicle equipped with an internal combustion engine and / or electric drive, etc. Reference numeral 130 indicates a front window or windshield.

[0046] Figure 2 A partial cross-sectional view of the switchable film stack 18 of the glass plate assembly 1 according to the first embodiment is shown. Figure 3 A partial sectional view shows an overall view of glass panel assembly 1, including... Figure 2 A switchable film stack is implemented together with paired protective interlayers 70, 72 and glass plates 50, 52, which sandwich the stack. The switchable film stack is disposed in the space between the first glass plate 50 and the second glass plate 52. The switchable film stack 18 includes a switchable film 20, which is composed of a stack including a first electrode layer 28, a switchable material layer 27, and a second electrode layer 29 opposite to the first electrode layer 28. In addition, the switchable film stack 18 includes a first carrier film 30 and a second carrier film 32, wherein the first carrier film 30 is disposed between the first electrode layer 28 and the first glass plate 50, and the second carrier film 32 is disposed between the second electrode layer 29 and the second glass plate 52.

[0047] In this particular embodiment, the switchable material layer 27 may be formed of PDLC material, the first electrode layer 28 and the second electrode layer 29 may be formed of indium tin oxide (ITO), the first carrier film 30 and the second carrier film 32 may be formed of polyethylene terephthalate (PET), and the first protective interlayer 70 and the second protective interlayer 72 may be formed of polyvinyl butyral (PVB).

[0048] Figure 2 and Figure 3 The partial sectional view is drawn at the outer edge of glass plate assembly 1. Figure 4 A schematic top view of the corresponding glass panel assembly 1 is shown, wherein the glass panel 50 and the first interlayer 70 are not shown in the figure or have not yet been formed. Figure 2 and Figure 3 The partial sectional view is therefore along Figure 4 The horizontal line in the figure is cut off, and the horizontal line roughly passes through the reference numeral 64 on the right side of the figure (indicating a crimped connector).

[0049] like Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, a portion near the edge of the stack 18 has been removed, including the switchable material layer 27, the first electrode layer 28, and a portion of the first carrier film 30 near the edge of the stack 18. Conversely, the edge portion of the second electrode layer 29 and the second carrier film 32 supporting the second electrode layer 29 have not been removed, i.e., they extend beyond the exposed edge 26 of the switchable material layer 27. Therefore, the surface 25 of the second electrode layer 29, which is not covered by the switchable material layer 27, faces the first glass plate 50 in the assembled state, as shown. Figure 3 The busbar 12, formed of conductive ink, extends along the outer edge of the stack 18 onto the surface 25 of the second electrode layer 29.

[0050] The barrier film 34 extends to cover the portion 36 defined by the cut edges of the switchable layer 27, the first electrode layer 28, and the first carrier film 30, i.e., the barrier film 34 covers the exposed edge 26 of the switchable material layer 27. The barrier film also covers the portion 35 of the surface 25 of the second electrode layer 29, including the busbar 12. The barrier film further extends onto a portion 31 of the top surface of the first carrier film 30, i.e., onto the top surface of the stack 18, adjacent to edge 26.

[0051] The barrier film 34 is formed from a single insert comprising polyethylene terephthalate (PET). For example... Figure 3 As shown, at the outer edge of the stack 18, the volume released by cutting off portions of the switchable material layer 27, the first electrode layer 28, and the first carrier film 30 is filled by the hot-melt adhesive material (polyvinyl butyral (PVB)) of the first interlayer 70. Here, the barrier film 34 is used to prevent plasticizers present in the hot-melt adhesive material of the first interlayer 70 from migrating into the switchable material layer 27.

[0052] Simultaneously, the single insert forming the barrier film 34 has conductive traces 41, 42, and 46, such as Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown. One of the conductive traces (conductive trace 42) is positioned across the busbar 11, see also Figure 4 .like Figure 4 As shown in the top view, the conductive trace 42 has a pad-shaped extension 48 in the region above the busbar 12, which allows for crimping between the conductive trace 42 and the busbar 12 present in the glass plate assembly 1. Figure 2 and Figure 3In this context, the conductive trace 42 and the pad-shaped extension 48 are considered to be the same component.

[0053] More specifically, regarding the pad-shaped extension 48 (or conductive trace 42) and the busbar 12, two crimp connectors 63, 64 are provided, extending through the pad-shaped extension 48 and the barrier film 34 and into the busbar 12, to establish an electrical connection between the conductive trace 42 and the busbar 12, and also to provide a reliable mechanical connection between the barrier film 34, on which the conductive trace is formed, and the busbar 12, and thus with the stack 18 of the switchable film 20 and the carrier films 30, 32. Therefore, a single insert can be secured to the stack 18 without the application of additional adhesive, although the use of additional adhesive is not excluded according to the embodiment.

[0054] like Figure 4 As schematically shown by the dashed lines, the second electrode layer 29 is divided into two segments 21 and 22 by a separator line 23. According to other embodiments, more than two segments 21 and 22 may exist. The separator line 23 electrically isolates the two segments 21 and 22. The two segments 21 and 22 then represent electrodes that are supplied with operating voltage from a power source during switching operations of the glass plate assembly 1 (via a controller not shown).

[0055] Each segment 21, 22 has a busbar to achieve the aforementioned electrical and mechanical connections. Specifically, the busbar 12 is associated with a portion of the second electrode layer 29 corresponding to one segment (i.e., segment 22), and another busbar 11 is associated with a portion of the second electrode layer 29 corresponding to another segment (i.e., segment 21). The busbar 11 is connected to the conductive trace 41 (or its pad-like extension 47) via crimp connectors 61, 62 in the same manner as the busbar 12 is connected to the conductive trace 42 (or its pad-like extension 48) via crimp connectors 63, 64. This further enhances the mechanical connection between the single insert forming the barrier film 34 and the stack 18.

[0056] like Figure 4 As can be further seen, the single insert forming the barrier film 34 extends vertically upward in the drawing plane along the right or first side edge 80, and upon reaching the upper right corner of the stack of layers and films 18, it is wrapped and folded to turn to the left, continuing to extend along the upper or second side edge 82 of the stack 18. However, the insert is thus also wrapped around the edge, so that the insert is now in Figure 4 The middle layer 18 extends on the opposite rear side, opposite to the front side. Therefore, in Figure 4 In the top view, this part of the insert is not visible, but for illustrative purposes, the rear side of the stack 18 is still shown.

[0057] As shown in the figure, similar to busbars 11 and 12 formed on the surface 25 of the second electrode layer 29 not covered by the switchable material layer (because this portion has been removed), a common busbar 16 is formed in the same manner on a similar surface 125 of the first electrode layer 28 not covered by the switchable material layer 27, because here, the switchable material layer 27, the second electrode layer, and the second carrier film 32 on the rear side of the stack 18 have also been removed. Furthermore, in this region of the second side edge 82, an edge 126 of the switchable material layer 27 is formed, similar to the edge 26 of the switchable material layer 27 at the first edge 80. Therefore, the overall structure of the upper or second side edge 82 is almost identical to the overall structure of the right or first side edge 80 described above, except that it involves different (but adjacent) side edges of the stack 18, and only one common busbar 16 is formed to provide electrical connection to the common electrode of the first electrode layer 28 via a conductive trace 46 (without segmentation). The conductive trace 46 is secured to the common busbar 16 by crimp connectors 65 and 66.

[0058] In this embodiment, an advantage is gained by using the same insert to implement conductive traces 41, 42, and 46 and connect busbars 11, 12, and 16, respectively, by wrapping a single insert around the corner 38 of the stack 18. To securely support the portion around the fold line 37 of the insert or barrier film 34, the corner is recessed to align with the fold line 37, which extends at a 45° angle relative to each of the first side edge 80 and the second side edge 82, see [link to relevant documentation]. Figure 5 The figure shows a schematic plan view of glass plates 50 and 52 superimposed on a switchable film stack 18. Reference numeral 55 indicates the area that can actually be used to switch light transmittance.

[0059] It should be noted that the accompanying drawings are for illustrative purposes only and are not drawn to scale. More specifically, the area required for the aforementioned edge portions is much smaller than the scale shown in the drawings. Furthermore, the layer thicknesses shown are not drawn to scale and may vary between different embodiments.

[0060] Figure 6 Another embodiment of the aspects presented herein is shown. This second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that the insert forming the barrier film 34 is not provided as a single insert. Instead, it is provided as a first side edge 80 ( Figure 6 (right side) and the third side edge 84 opposite to the first side edge 80 ( Figure 6An insert is provided on each of the left and right sides of the stack 18. In other words, two separate barrier films 34 are provided on the front side (first side edge 80, where the electrodes are segmented and operate at a working voltage via a controller not shown) and the rear side (second side edge 84, where the electrodes are not segmented and operate at ground potential) of the respective edge regions of the stack 18. Each barrier film 34 includes conductive traces 41, 42 on one side and conductive trace 46 on the other side, which are pressed to the corresponding busbars 11, 12 and 16 in the manner described above.

[0061] As a result of this modification, there are two separate inserts and a barrier film that require separate external electrical connections (e.g., a separate polyimide connector, not shown). On the other hand, in this modification, it is not necessary to fold an insert and wrap it around the corner of the stack 18.

[0062] List of reference numerals 1. Glass panel assembly 11-12 Busbar (Operating Voltage Potential) 16. Busbars (Common or Ground Potential) 18. Stack of switchable membrane and carrier membrane 20 Switchable membrane Sections 21-22 23. Separator line between sections 25. Electrode layer surface not covered by the switchable material layer 26. Edges of switchable material layers 27. Switchable material layer, PDLC, liquid crystal (LC) or SPD 28 First electrode layer, transparent conductive oxide (TCO), indium tin oxide (ITO) 29. Second electrode layer, transparent conductive oxide (TCO), indium tin oxide (ITO) 30. First carrier membrane, polyethylene terephthalate (PET) 31. A portion of the top surface of the first carrier membrane along edge 26 32. Second carrier membrane, polyethylene terephthalate (PET) 34. Barrier film inserts, polyethylene terephthalate (PET) 35 The portion of the first surface not covered by the switchable layer along edge 26 36 The portion defined by the cut edge of the switchable layer, the first electrode layer, and the first carrier film. 37. Fold lines of the barrier film 38. Edges at the corners of layer 18 41-42 Conductive traces (operating voltage potential) 46 Conductive traces (common or ground potential) 47-49 Pad-shaped extensions of the crimping trace 50 First Glass Plate 52 Second glass plate 61-66 Crimping connection 70 First interlayer, polyvinyl butyral (PVB) 72 Second interlayer, polyvinyl butyral (PVB) 80 First side edge of the glass panel assembly 82 Second side edge of the glass panel assembly 84. Third edge of the glass panel assembly

Claims

1. A glass panel assembly (1), particularly for the roof (120) of a vehicle (100), comprising: First glass plate (50); Second glass plate (52); A switchable membrane (20) is disposed in the space between the first glass plate (50) and the second glass plate (52). The switchable membrane (20) is composed of a stack including a first electrode layer (28), a switchable material layer (27) and a second electrode layer (29) opposite to the first electrode layer (28). A first carrier film (30) is disposed between the first electrode layer (28) and the first glass plate (50); A second carrier film (32) is disposed between the second electrode layer (29) and the second glass plate (52); The second electrode layer (29) and the second carrier film (32) extend beyond at least the first edge (26) of the switchable material layer (27) to define a surface (25) of the second electrode layer (29) that is not covered by the switchable material layer (27). At least one busbar (11, 12, 16) is arranged on the surface (25) of the second electrode layer (29) that is not covered by the switchable material layer (27). A barrier membrane (34) covering at least the first edge (26) of the switchable material layer (27) and the portion (35) of the surface (25) including the at least one busbar (11, 12, 16). The barrier film (34) includes at least one conductive trace (41, 42, 46) configured to contact the at least one busbar (11, 12, 16) to provide an electrical connection to the second electrode layer (29) through the at least one busbar (11, 12, 16).

2. The glass panel assembly (1) according to claim 1, wherein, The at least one busbar (11, 12, 16) and the at least one conductive trace (41, 42, 46) are interconnected via one or more conductive connectors (61-66).

3. The glass plate assembly (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The at least one conductive trace (41, 42, 46) is a printed conductive trace.

4. The glass plate assembly (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The at least one conductive trace (41, 42, 46) is embedded and covered within the barrier film (34).

5. The glass plate assembly (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, The barrier film is formed of the same material as the first carrier film (30) and the second carrier film (32), preferably polyethylene terephthalate (PET).

6. The glass plate assembly (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, The barrier membrane (34) is formed of Kapton.

7. The glass plate assembly (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein, The total thickness of the barrier film (34) is 25 micrometers or more and / or 150 micrometers or less.

8. The glass plate assembly (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein, The edge (26) is formed by a portion (31), the portion (31) including a cut edge of a stack having the switchable material layer (27), the first electrode layer (28) and the first carrier film (30). The barrier film (34) extends along the edge (26) and covers the portion (31) of the top surface of the first carrier film (30) facing the first glass plate (50) and the portion (35) of the surface (25) of the second electrode layer (29) not covered by the switchable material layer (27).

9. The glass plate assembly (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein, The second electrode layer (29) is divided into two or more electrically isolated segments (21, 22), wherein each segment (21, 22) is provided with a busbar (11, 12), and the barrier film (34) extends along the edge (26) such that each corresponding busbar (11, 12) contacts a corresponding conductive trace (41, 42) to provide an electrical connection to each segment of the second electrode layer (29) through at least one corresponding busbar (11, 12).

10. The glass plate assembly (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein, The barrier film (34) is folded around the inclined corner (38) of a stack (18) comprising the first carrier film, the first electrode layer (28), the switchable material layer (27), the second electrode layer (29) and the second carrier film (32).

11. The glass plate assembly (1) according to claim 10, wherein, The first edge (26) extends along the first side edge (80) of the stack (18), and at least the second edge (126) of the switchable material layer (27) extends along the second side edge (82) of the stack (18), the first edge (26) and the second edge (126) extending substantially orthogonally to each other; The surface (25) of the second electrode layer (29) is the first surface (25) not covered by the switchable material layer (27); The first electrode layer (28) and the first carrier film (30) extend beyond the second edge (126) to define a second surface (125) of the first electrode layer (28) that is not covered by the switchable material layer (27). A common busbar (16) is arranged on the second surface (125) of the first electrode layer (28) that is not covered by the switchable material layer (27); The barrier membrane (34) extends continuously along the first side edge (80) and the second side edge (82) to cover at least the first edge (26) and the second edge (126) of the switchable material layer (27) and the portion (35) of the surface (25, 125) including all the busbars (11, 12, 16). The barrier film (34) includes a plurality of conductive traces (41, 42, 46), each conductive trace being configured to contact one of the busbars (11, 12, 16) to provide electrical connections to the first electrode layer (28) and the second electrode layer (29), respectively.

12. The glass panel assembly (1) according to claim 11, wherein, The barrier film (34) is folded such that the fold line (37) extends at a 45° angle relative to each of the first side edge (80) and the second side edge (82).

13. A vehicle (100) comprising a glass panel assembly (1) according to any one of the preceding claims.

Images