Assembly comprising a vehicle glazing unit provided with a through hole for using an infrared camera

Abstract

The invention relates to an assembly (1) comprising: - a vehicle glazing unit (1), in particular a windshield, comprising at least one glass sheet (11) and at least one through hole (10) in the glass sheet; - a receiving part (4) having a hollow body (40) and being mounted in the through hole (10); - an interface part (3) comprising a viewing window (30) transparent to wavelengths in the range of 5 to 20 µm, and the interface part (3) is removably fastened in the receiving part (4), and the interface part (3) extends beyond the through hole and is adapted to be fastened to an infrared camera.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the integration of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) in vehicles, which improves safety, and particularly to the integration of infrared cameras operating in the far-infrared range. Background Technology

[0002] Today, vehicles are equipped with Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), which help drivers perceive their environment and enable vehicles to detect, in particular, obstacles and react automatically and proactively before the driver's instinctive reactions. ADAS uses a variety of detection technologies. In particular, these systems include visual cameras in the visible wavelength range (between 0.4 and 0.8 µm), thermal cameras in the far-infrared range (between 5 and 20 µm), and laser detection devices, also known as LIDAR ("light detection and ranging"), which operate in the near-infrared range (between 0.7 and 2.5 µm).

[0003] While visible light cameras can be easily placed in multiple locations within a vehicle (especially on the windshield), this is not the case for infrared cameras, which are positioned near headlights, behind the bumper, or even on the roof in the case of so-called autonomous vehicles. However, positioning cameras on the bumper has several disadvantages, such as low detection range, the risk of damage or misalignment upon bumper impact, difficulty in cleaning the sensors, and the need for integrated de-icing systems.

[0004] Furthermore, a current trend recognized and mandated by equipment manufacturers is to place thermal cameras (which operate in the far-infrared (IR) range) in a high position behind the windshield. However, the integration of thermal cameras inside the vehicle can be hindered by the fact that infrared rays are absorbed by the windshield. This is because the transmittance of light rays through the windshield is too low for far-infrared wavelengths. For windshields, it is therefore known to create holes in them to accommodate inserts formed of a material transparent to far-infrared rays, as described in patent applications WO2022 / 023650 or WO2023 / 281228. These far-infrared rays can thus pass through the windshield via the inserts, allowing them to be detected by an infrared camera (thermal camera) positioned inside the vehicle.

[0005] While the solution described in the literature makes it possible to place such an infrared camera behind the windshield inside a vehicle, further facilitating the positioning and securing of the infrared camera is still desired. Summary of the Invention

[0006] Therefore, the object of this invention is to propose a new solution for integrating an infrared camera (operating in the far-infrared range) behind a vehicle window unit.

[0007] In the remainder of this specification, the term “infrared camera” will be understood to mean a camera having an operating wavelength in the range of infrared wavelengths (far-infrared radiation) from 5 to 20 µm, particularly 8 and 14 µm.

[0008] The present invention therefore relates to a component comprising: - A (preferably laminated) vehicle window unit, particularly a (preferably laminated) windshield, comprising at least one glass sheet and at least one through-hole in the glass sheet (in the thickness of the window unit). - A receiving component having a hollow body and which is (preferably in a fluid-impermeable manner) installed in a through hole. - An interface component comprising an observation window that is transparent to wavelengths ranging from 5 to 20 µm (the operating wavelength of an infrared camera), particularly between 8 and 14 µm, the observation window being located in a through-hole and housed within a hollow body. The interface component is removably fastened to a receiving component, and the interface component (facing the internal environment) extends beyond the through-hole and is adapted for fastening to an infrared camera (having an IR operating wavelength), specifically the infrared camera comprising a lens body (with an end) connected to an infrared sensor housing.

[0009] Therefore, the through-hole, receiving component, and interface component are designed to enable the infrared camera to be secured to the glass window unit while ensuring an infrared-transparent area (also known as the IR camera area or IR transmission window). The interface component includes an observation window integrated into the through-hole of the glass window unit to provide a view of the vehicle's external environment.

[0010] Additionally, the interface component provides a sealed optical path from the end of the camera's lens body to the surface (preferably the outer surface, referred to as surface F1) of the glass window unit. This prevents dust or moisture from settling on the camera lens—which would occur if the camera and the glass window unit were separated by an air gap. Furthermore, the fact that the interface component according to the invention engages with the observation window at its end and is secured to the camera makes it possible to precisely and as desired select the position of the optical axis. For example, the optical axis (which is particularly horizontal) passes through the center of the observation window, or in particular, the horizontal axis is offset from the center toward the top.

[0011] Furthermore, because the interface component is removably secured to the receiving component, it facilitates maintenance or replacement of the viewing window (e.g., in case of breakage or scratches), or even replacement of the glass window unit. This saves on maintenance costs.

[0012] The interface component can be a single component or a combination of multiple components assembled together (particularly in a removable manner). These components may include, for example, one or more components with different (equivalent) inner diameters, constant or variable cross-sections, stepped sections, etc. The interface component can be positioned (connected) at the distal end of the camera's lens body. The interface component can be cylindrical.

[0013] In the remainder of this specification, the term "face of a glass window unit" will be understood to mean one of the main faces of a glass window unit. The same applies to the face of an observation window, i.e., this refers to the main face of the observation window.

[0014] In the remainder of this specification, the term "hole" will be understood to mean an opening extending from the outside of a glass unit through the thickness of the (monochrome or laminated) glass unit to an opposite inner surface. This opening may be located at a distance from the edge of the glass unit (and thus have a closed perimeter) or may be located at the edge of the glass unit, such as a notch (and thus have a perimeter that opens towards the edge of the glass unit, towards the outside of the glass unit). The hole has walls that define its perimeter and therefore can be closed or open.

[0015] In the remainder of this specification, the term "receiving component fastened to the glass window unit" will be understood to mean that the receiving component is attached to the interior of the hole in the glass window unit (which is fixed to the wall of the hole along the thickness / depth of the glass of the glass window unit) or is securely attached to an element (hereinafter referred to as a filling element) that is inserted between the wall of the hole and the receiving component.

[0016] In the remainder of this specification, the term “depth” will be understood to mean the dimension extending laterally across the main surface of the glass window unit.

[0017] According to one feature, when the interface component is fastened to the glass window unit, the interface component is configured to support the weight of the infrared camera.

[0018] The interface component includes a spacer (hollow with an inner surface) that connects the camera to the receiving component of the glass window unit.

[0019] According to one feature, the interface component includes a spacer adapted to connect a camera to the receiving component, and in particular adapted to connect the lens body of the camera to the receiving component.

[0020] According to one feature, the interface component includes an integrated portion located at the end of the spacer and housed within the receiving component. Preferably, the integrated portion houses an observation window. In particular, the integrated portion is flush with the surface F1 of the glass window unit.

[0021] Specifically, the spacer has a shape adapted to mate (and thus reliably mate) with the receiving component, such that the viewing window is parallel to the glass window unit, and in particular (its outer surface) is flush with the outer side (F1) of the glass window unit intended to face the external environment. And / or the spacer faces the through-hole in at least one section (protruding from the through-hole) and includes a section offset from the through-hole. This offset section may be parallel to the glass window unit (which is tilted in the mounting position), or may form an angle of up to 80° or 60°, or even up to 30° or 20° with the plane of the glass window unit. Then, the area (attachment) that can be secured to the camera around all or part of the lens body and / or sensor housing is also offset from the through-hole. In the offset section, the optical axis may be parallel to the glass window unit (which is tilted in the mounting position), or may form an angle of up to 80° or 60°, or even up to 30° or 20° with the plane of the glass window unit.

[0022] In particular, the spacer has a shape suitable for mechanically connecting the lens body to the glass window unit.

[0023] The internal configuration of the spacer is such that the observation window is optically connected to the observation end of the lens body (the standard outer lens of the camera objective).

[0024] The interior of the spacer may optionally include one or more IR reflectors, particularly when, as already described, the interface component (especially the spacer) has a section offset from the through hole (e.g., the interface component is shaped as an elbow (with an L-shaped cross section, etc.)).

[0025] According to one feature, the interface component includes a fastening portion adapted to mate with a fastening area provided on the receiving component.

[0026] Specifically, the interface component includes a spacer that connects the so-called observation end of the lens body of the infrared camera to the glass window unit; an observation window disposed at the end of the spacer opposite to the observation end of the lens body; and a fastening portion adapted to mate with a fastening area provided on the receiving component.

[0027] The shape of the inner surface of the integrated part may be the same as or different from the shape of the spacer and / or the attachment. For example, the attachment may be circular or have a circular cross-section, and / or the inner surface of the integrated part (like an observation window) may be circular or trapezoidal.

[0028] The shape and / or (equivalent) diameter of the inner surface of the integrated part may be the same as or different from the shape and / or diameter of the spacer and / or attachment part.

[0029] The interface component may have one or more different (equivalent) inner diameters along its length, in particular: diameter D1, which at the integration portion, i.e. at the hole, is similar to the (equivalent) diameter of the viewing window, and / or (equivalent) diameter D2, which at the attachment portion for attachment to the camera (e.g., depending on the outer diameter of the lens body), and / or (equivalent) diameter D3, which is in the space between the hole and the attachment portion (in particular beyond the lens end of the infrared camera).

[0030] D2 can be similar to the diameter of the lens body. D1 is preferably greater than or equal to the diameter D2 (and / or the diameter of the lens end). D3 is preferably greater than or equal to the diameter D2.

[0031] For example, the (equivalent) diameter D2 of the attachment portion (particularly annular in shape) used for attaching to the lens body is preferably at least 5 mm or 10 mm, and at most 50 mm or even at most 30 mm. In particular, the lens body has an outer diameter that is preferably at least 5 mm or 10 mm, and at most 50 mm or 30 mm.

[0032] The length of the interface component outside the through hole can be at least 2 mm or 5 mm or even 10 mm, and preferably at most 50 mm or 20 mm.

[0033] The total length of the interface component can be at least 2 mm or 5 mm or even 10 mm, and preferably at most 50 mm or 20 mm.

[0034] When the interface component is shaped as an elbow (with the angle described above), the total length of the interface component can be at least 5 mm or even 10 mm or 15 mm, and preferably at most 50 mm. The length of the interface component before the elbow (i.e., closest to the hole) (outside the through hole) can be at least 2 mm and at most 10 mm, and / or the length after the elbow (i.e., closest to the fastener) can be up to 48 mm.

[0035] According to one feature, the interface component has a closed periphery and is hollow (in its receiving portion), such as a circular hollow body that is wholly or partially present. According to another feature, the interface component has an outer wall facing the hole and an inner wall capable of (tightly) engaging with the viewing window (via its edge).

[0036] According to one feature, the observation window is flush with (does not protrude beyond) the outside (face F1) of the glass window unit, which is intended to face the external environment.

[0037] According to one feature, the observation window is made of a material transparent to the operating wavelength of the IR camera (i.e., the wavelength range between 5 and 20 µm, particularly between 8 and 14 µm). According to another feature, the observation window is integrated into a so-called integrated portion, which is housed within a through-hole. According to yet another feature, the observation window has a thickness equal to or less than the thickness of the glass window unit, or is excessively thick on the internal environment side. Specifically, the observation window has a thickness not exceeding 10 mm.

[0038] The material of the observation window is preferably less than 0.5 cm for light rays having at least one wavelength selected from between 5 µm and 20 µm (inclusive), preferably between 8 µm and 14 µm (inclusive) (the operating wavelength of the IR camera). -1 More preferably less than 0.1 cm -1 The light absorption coefficient.

[0039] Preferably, the material of the observation window has a purity of at least 99.99%, more preferably at least 99.995%, or even more preferably 99.999% (by weight), and / or is free from inclusions (and / or crystal defects) larger than 20 µm, or even 12 or 10 µm.

[0040] The viewing window is made of a material that is either colorless or colored (while remaining transparent), particularly yellow or orange.

[0041] The observation window can be curved, specifically to follow the local curvature of the glass window unit.

[0042] The material of the viewing window can be polished (both the exterior and interior main surfaces).

[0043] The material of the observation window preferably has a cubic crystal system.

[0044] Advantageously, the observation window is transparent to infrared radiation from 5 µm to 20 µm (including the endpoints), and better from 8 µm to 14 µm, and its material is a polycrystalline material (easier to manufacture than a single crystal).

[0045] The material of the observation window can be selected from zinc sulfide, zinc selenide, silicon, germanium, BaF2, sapphire, CaF2, chalcogenide glass (especially elemental alloys based on chalcogen elements Te, Se, S, especially As, S, Se, Te, Ge, Sb or even Ga) and cross-linked organic sulfur hybrid polymers including linear sulfur chains cross-linked by organic comonomers.

[0046] As an example of chalcogenide glasses, Ge can be mentioned. 28 Sb 12 Se 60(Especially Schott's IRG25®, Vitron's IG5®, and Umicore's GASIR2®) or As 40 Se 60 (Especially Schott's IRG26®, Vitron's IG6®, and Umicore's GASIR5®).

[0047] According to one characteristic, the infrared transparent material of the observation window includes zinc sulfide (ZnS) and / or zinc selenide (ZnSe) and / or barium fluoride (BaF2) and / or germanium (Ge) and / or silicon (Si) or chalcogenide glass.

[0048] Advantageously, the infrared transparent material of the observation window is made of a material selected from (preferably polycrystalline) materials (especially obtained by chemical vapor deposition): - Zinc compounds, including selenium and / or sulfur; - Compounds including barium fluoride; - Or even compounds containing thallium bromide, such as KRS-5 (thallium bromide).

[0049] Specifically, the infrared-transparent material of the observation window is selected from: - Compounds including multispectral zinc sulfide, particularly those obtained after hot isostatic pressing (by isostatic pressing at a temperature preferably at least 800°C), especially including selenium, such as ZnS. x Se 1-x Where x is preferably at least 0.97, more preferably at least 0.99, and even more preferably at least 0.998; - Compounds including zinc selenide, especially ZnSe, and particularly sulfur, such as ZnSe. y S 1-y Where y is at least 0.97, more preferably at least 0.99, and even better, at least 0.998; - Compounds including barium fluoride, particularly calcium and / or strontium, especially Ba. 1-i-j Ca i Sr j F2, where i+j is strictly less than 1, and i and j are preferably at most 0.25 each, more preferably at most 0.03, and even better at most 0.005, or Ba. 1- i Ca i F2, where i is strictly less than 1 and preferably at most 0.25, more preferably at most 0.03, even more preferably at most 0.005, especially BaF2.

[0050] Advantageously, to improve mechanical strength, the observation window, including both the outer and inner surfaces, includes a mechanical and / or chemical protective layer on the outer surface and optionally on the inner surface (especially if it can be removed from the lens body of the infrared camera).

[0051] The mechanical and / or chemical protective layer (preferably a single or multiple layer coating) may be selected from at least one of the following layers: - Including layers of zinc sulfide (especially ZnS), particularly those composed of ZnS x Se 1-x Inserts made of (especially ZnSe) are used for mechanical protection. - A diamond layer, preferably amorphous (due to its adhesion to the crystals of the insert), particularly with a thickness of at least 10 nm or 20 nm, and preferably 50 nm to 300 nm, and even up to 100 nm. - DLC (diamond-like carbon) layer, i.e., a layer based on diamond-type carbon, preferably amorphous, especially with a thickness of at least 10 nm or 20 nm, preferably from 50 nm to 300 nm, and even up to 100 nm.

[0052] According to one characteristic, the size (radius, equivalent radius, or length) of the observation window can be at least 5 mm or 1 cm and / or up to 20 cm (for observation windows of multiple sensors) or 6 cm (for dedicated observation windows of infrared cameras). The size of the observation window can be adapted to a camera area shared by at least one (far)infrared camera and optionally a LIDAR system or a near-infrared camera and / or a visible light camera. In particular, the observation window is also transparent to visible light and / or light between 0.7 and 5 µm, especially between 0.7 and 2.5 µm, and particularly in the near-infrared range of 905 nm and 1550 nm.

[0053] According to one characteristic, the observation window has a cross-section in a plane parallel to the main surface of the glass window unit, which can correspond to one of the following geometries: preferably circular, elliptical, oblong, trapezoidal, rectangular, square, or quadrilateral. Specifically, the observation window has a cross-section in a plane parallel to the surface of the glass window unit, and the perimeter of this cross-section has curved and / or straight lines. The size of the observation window depends particularly on its geometry. For example (but not limited to), for a circular cross-section, the viewing window preferably has a radius of at most 5 cm, 4 cm, 3 cm, or 2 cm; for an ellipse, the minimum radius is at least 1 cm and the maximum radius is at most 5 cm, 4 cm, 3 cm, or 2 cm; for an oblong shape, the length is preferably at most 10 cm, 8 cm, 6 cm, or 5 cm, and in the case of such an oblong shape with a circular end, the radius of curvature (at the end) is preferably at most 5 cm or 4 cm; and for a trapezoid with a large base and a small base, the large base is preferably at most 20 cm, 15 cm, or 8 cm, and / or the small base is preferably at most 15 cm, 10 cm, or 5 cm, and the height separating the large base from the small base is preferably at most 8 cm, 6 cm, or 4 cm.

[0054] The observation window can have a cross-section that is constant over its thickness (the dimensions are parallel to the thickness of the glass unit and transverse to the surface of the glass unit). However, depending on the mounting method and the way it mates with the interface components, the cross-section of the observation window can be variable, and the cross-section may be trapezoidal in shape, converging toward the interior of the hole (and toward the inner sheet of the glass unit).

[0055] The edges of the viewing window do not necessarily have to be smooth. The interface components (inner walls, especially the inner surface) may include so-called fixing portions for securing the viewing window. The fixing portions and the edges of the viewing window may have form-fitting elements, specifically configured to prevent any movement of the viewing window relative to the fixing portions in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the glass window unit.

[0056] Specifically, the edge of the viewing window and the fixing portion (inner wall, particularly the inner surface) facing the edge can have one or more shape-fitting elements for fastening purposes, particularly one or more of which can have one or more grooves, the shape of which is particularly suitable for ensuring good retention. The shape-fitting element can thus be formed by a series of grooves formed on the fixing portion and a series of grooves formed on the edge, the grooves formed on the fixing portion being complementary in shape to the grooves formed on the edge. Each groove can form a closed line along the edge. The grooves can be parallel to each other. Preferably, the shape-fitting element comprises at least two grooves, more preferably at least three grooves, and more preferably at least four grooves. The shape-fitting element can have a thickness along an axis defined by the total height of the viewing window. This thickness can be less than one-tenth of the (equivalent) diameter of the viewing window, and preferably less than one-twentieth of the (equivalent) diameter of the viewing window. This thickness can be less than 1 mm. Thus, the viewing window can be mechanically held in the fixing portion without any adhesive, while maximizing the size of the viewing window.

[0057] In one embodiment, the interface component is adapted to be removably (preferably mechanically) fastened to an infrared camera, particularly to the camera's lens body, to the camera's infrared sensor housing, or to both the lens body and the housing.

[0058] Specifically, the interface component includes an attachment portion that is fastened (preferably mechanically) around all or part of the periphery of the camera (particularly around the periphery of the lens body, for example at the distal end of the lens body, near the end of the lens body, or conversely near the housing). The attachment portion can be fastened by threads, snap-fit, or by a built-in bayonet and quarter-turn system.

[0059] The attachment portion may have a closed or open periphery. The interface component may have a closed periphery, preferably extending at least to the end of the lens body, or even extending to the attachment portion (the integration portion and all or part of the peripherally closed spacer portion).

[0060] The interface component can be mechanically fastened by the form-fit between the camera (lens body and / or housing) and the interface component (fastening part). The fastening part can span across the lens body and housing.

[0061] The fact that interface components can be removed from infrared cameras makes it possible to design interface components for cameras already on the market.

[0062] Specifically, the interface component is adapted to be removably fastened to the lens body of an infrared camera; specifically, the interface component includes an attachment portion, particularly annular in shape, which is preferably fastened to the periphery of the lens body by threads. The interface component includes a portion configured to be mounted on the lens body of the infrared camera. For example, the attachment portion forms a ring that is threadedly fastened to a circular lens body, for example near the observation end of the lens body of the infrared camera, or conversely near the housing.

[0063] The interface component can be adapted to be removably fastened to the housing or even the lens body, and in particular, the interface component includes an attachment that can be fastened, preferably mechanically (e.g., by snap-fit), around all or part of the periphery of the lens body.

[0064] Additionally, the interface component (at least the integration portion) will be advantageously configured according to the intended type of the receiving component fastened to the glass window unit. The interface component (at least the integration portion) specifically includes a portion configured to be removably fastened to the receiving component.

[0065] The through-hole is preferably located at the top edge of the glass window unit (windshield), and particularly in the (upper) middle area, especially in the area of ​​the rear observation window and / or in the area of ​​one or more sensors (rain sensor, etc.).

[0066] Advantageously, the receiving component is mounted in the through-hole of the window unit by adhesive bonding (the component is bonded together using an adhesive), overmolding (the component is, for example, an overmolded part), or press fitting. Preferably, when the receiving component is non-removably mounted on the glass of the window unit or on an intermediate element (hereinafter referred to as a filler element), the receiving component is mounted in the through-hole of the window unit by overmolding. In the case of adhesive bonding, the adhesive is, for example, polyurethane (PU) or silicone.

[0067] In one embodiment, particularly when the hole forms a notch in the glass window unit, the hole includes a filler element (part or plate with a hole for mounting interface components and an observation window) arranged between the hole (the wall of the hole) and a receiving component. The receiving component may optionally have a cross-section different from that of the hole. Specifically, the filler element is made of metal (particularly deep-drawn sheet metal) or plastic, particularly thermoplastic (injection molded), and the plastic is one of the following materials: ABS / PC, PA66, PP (polypropylene), PC (polycarbonate), or PMMA. Specifically, the filler element is rigid, i.e., it has a hardness greater than 40 Shore D. Specifically, the filler element is fixed to the hole (at least to the wall of the hole); the filler element is adhesively bonded to the hole, or the hole is molded by the filler element (covering). The receiving component and the filling element (component) are fixed, in particular, by an adhesive (e.g., polyurethane (PU)), or the receiving component (plastic or metal) is molded (overmolded) by the filling element (plastic, injection molded), or the filling element is molded (overmolded) by the receiving component, or the receiving component is mounted in the filling element via press fitting. In cases where adhesive bonding is used to fix the filling element to the window unit and the receiving component to the filling element, adhesives other than PU may also be suitable; the adhesive preferably must be flexible, i.e., having a Young's modulus of less than 10 MPa (e.g., silicone).

[0068] According to one characteristic, the window unit is laminated, comprising two glass sheets connected to each other by a laminated interlayer made of a polymeric material, particularly a thermoplastic polymeric material (e.g., made of polyvinyl butyral (PVB), which is, for example, transparent and has a sub-millimeter thickness (such as at least 0.3 mm, and particularly 0.38 mm, 0.76 mm, or 0.81 mm). The laminated interlayer is single or multilayer and may have acoustic properties. The window unit preferably comprises at least one piece of mineral glass (preferably the outer pane). The glass sheet may have a thickness of 2.1 mm, or even 1.6 mm, or even less. At least one of the glass sheets may be colored; as a variation, the interlayer may be colored. The window unit may be monolithic. A monolithic window unit comprises a single glass sheet, which may be plexiglass (PMMA (polymethyl methacrylate) etc.) or mineral glass.

[0069] The glass window unit according to the invention may include an opaque (masking) layer, particularly enamel (black, etc.) or ink (black, etc.), on a laminated interlayer (PVB, etc.), which is either spaced apart from or along the edge of the through-hole and may extend across the glass window unit (to mask the fastening of interface components to an infrared camera and optionally other sensors or cameras (e.g., even a cover). Specifically, this is a peripherally masked frame (enamel, ink, etc.), and the hole is within this frame (a closed hole or notch).

[0070] One main surface of the glass window unit (e.g., surface F2, F3, or F4) may include an opaque (masking) layer along the edge of the through-hole, particularly enamel (black, etc.) or ink (to mask, for example, the fastening of an infrared camera). Specifically, this is a peripherally masking frame (enamel, ink, etc.), and the hole is within this frame (a closed hole or notch).

[0071] A masking layer (black ink or ink of a different color) may also be provided on at least one main surface of the interlayer, which is made of PVB in particular.

[0072] According to one feature, the receiving component may match the cross-section of the hole (the outer cross-section of the receiving component is complementary to the geometry of the hole) or may not match; if the receiving component does not match the cross-section of the hole, a filler element is inserted between the hole (the wall of the hole) and the receiving component (the outer wall of the receiving component).

[0073] Preferably, the receiving member has a shoulder located outside the hole and abutting against the inner surface of the glass window unit around the periphery of the hole, and / or against the inner surface (parallel to the main surface of the glass window unit) of a filling element inserted between the receiving member and the wall of the hole. In particular, the hole is a notch.

[0074] According to one feature, the receiving component includes a shoulder (projecting outward from the hollow body of the receiving component) abutting against one of the surfaces of the glass window unit on the infrared camera (lens body) side; and a fastening region projecting outward from the shoulder and engaging with a fastening portion of the interface component, which preferably extends radially relative to the lens body of the infrared camera. Depending on the type of fastening and the design of the fastening portion of the interface component, the fastening region of the shoulder may or may not project in a coplanar manner with the shoulder. For example, they may form an L-shaped tab.

[0075] According to one feature, the component includes a retaining device for removably fastening the interface component in the receiving component, the retaining device being integrally integrated with the interface component and the receiving component, and / or the retaining device being removably attached to engage with a fastening portion provided outside the interface component (particularly outside the spacer portion of the interface component and beyond the integration portion) and with a fastening area provided in the receiving component, in particular the retaining device being a snap-fit ​​fastening element, or a screw, or a bayonet and quarter-turn system.

[0076] For example, the interface component and the receiving component are fastened together by threads. Specifically, the receiving component includes internal threads and the interface component includes external threads. The internal and external threads are arranged on the portions of the receiving component and the interface component located within the hole, and / or outside the hole and on the inner surface side of the glass unit. Alternatively, the receiving component and the interface component are fastened together by snap-fit. Specifically, the receiving component includes a female snap-fit ​​fastening type and the interface component includes a male snap-fit ​​fastening type (particularly a male type made of spring steel, capable of engaging with the female type). The snap-fit ​​fastening occurs within the hole and / or outside the hole and on the inner surface side of the glass unit.

[0077] Preferably, the retaining device is a snap-fit ​​fastening device. The snap-fit ​​fastening device is, for example, an elastic male form, preferably made of spring steel, capable of engaging with a female form (the male snap-fit ​​fastening forms are elastically deformable so that they can engage with and disengage from the female form).

[0078] According to one feature, the retaining device extends around the entire periphery of the receiving component and the interface component, or locally on the receiving component and the interface component.

[0079] The retaining device may be arranged on the shoulder of the receiving component, which abuts against the inner surface of the glass window unit (F4 if laminated) and / or against the filling element in the hole, which is inserted between the hole and the receiving component, and on one or more sections of the interface component, which extend radially from the annular body of the interface component (spacer).

[0080] Preferably, the receiving component extends through the entire depth of the hole (without protruding beyond the outer surface (face F1) of the glass window unit).

[0081] According to one characteristic, the interface component is made of plastic and / or metal.

[0082] The size of the through-hole depends particularly on the technology chosen to create the hole, the camera, the materials used for the receiving and interface components, the coefficients of thermal expansion, and the means of securing the components together. For example, the area of ​​the viewing window can range from 10 cm² to 150 cm². The thickness of the interface component (at least within the range of the through-hole) is preferably at least 0.5 mm or 1 mm. The thickness of the receiving component is preferably at least 0.5 mm and preferably at most 5 mm, more preferably from 0.5 to 2.5 mm.

[0083] According to one characteristic, the receiving component is made of plastic and / or metal.

[0084] According to one feature, the interface component is made of plastic or metal, and the interface component is coupled to the viewing window by adhesive bonding (preferably using PU adhesive) or overmolding (preferably overmolding). In particular, the interface component includes a retaining device that mates with the receiving component, especially inside or outside the hole.

[0085] Based on one characteristic, the receiving component is made of plastic or metal.

[0086] According to one characteristic, the interface component is made of plastic or metal. According to another characteristic, the receiving component and the interface component are made of plastic, or the receiving component and the interface component are made of metal, or the receiving component is made of plastic and the interface component is made of metal, or the receiving component is made of metal and the interface component is made of plastic.

[0087] The plastic used for the receiving and / or interface components is, in particular, polyamide 66 (PA66), or PBT (polybutylene terephthalate), or ABS (acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene), or ASA (acrylonitrile-styrene-acrylate), or ABS / PC (acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene / polycarbonate). The plastic may be filled or unfilled. The metallic material used for the receiving and / or interface components is, for example, aluminum or steel.

[0088] According to one characteristic, the material of the receiving component has a coefficient of thermal expansion that is adapted to the coefficient of thermal expansion of the glass window unit (and / or filling element) and the interface component of the infrared camera (in order to minimize the differences between various materials). Specifically, the material of the receiving component has a coefficient of thermal expansion between 0.8 and 1.2 times that of the glass (and / or filling element).

[0089] According to another characteristic, the material of the interface component specifically has a coefficient of thermal expansion between 1 and 15 times that of glass (the coefficient of thermal expansion of glass is 8.9 x 10⁻⁶). -6 / K).

[0090] According to another feature, the component includes a (fluid-impermeable) sealing device (attached) (at the interface) arranged between the interface component and the receiving component, within the through-hole of the window unit (over the entire depth or part of the depth of the hole) and / or outside the hole, or formed of the material of the receiving component and the interface component and joined together by the receiving component and the interface component in a (fluid-impermeable) sealing connection (albeit removable). The sealing device can thus be composed of the same material as the receiving component and the interface component, which is, for example, sufficiently soft and compressible such that a seal is achieved by compression of each other. Thus, the interface component, removably fastened to the receiving component and thus to the window unit, is also sealingly fastened to the window unit. Different variations of the sealing device are conceivable. The sealing device can be arranged between the receiving component and the interface component. The sealing device between the interface component and the receiving component can be made of rubber or EPDM (ethylene-propylene-diene monomer) or silicone. Advantageously, the sealing device extends over the entire cross-section of the interface between the receiving component and the interface component.

[0091] In one variation, the sealing device disposed between the interface component and the receiving component can be a gasket, particularly disposed between the receiving component and the interface component (preferably disposed outside the orifice), preferably an O-ring, such as made of rubber or EPDM (ethylene-propylene-diene monomer); or as a variation, the sealing device can be a film or paste made of sealing material and removably installed, particularly when the interface component is fastened by thread (the film or paste is between the receiving component and the interface component, preferably inside the orifice), particularly made of a non-stick (and sealing) material, such as polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE, or Teflon®). Advantageously, the sealing device extends over the entire cross-section between the interface component and the receiving component.

[0092] When the hole is a notch, additional sealing can be provided by a seal arranged between the window unit and the vehicle frame on which the window unit is mounted.

[0093] According to one characteristic, the glass window unit is laminated, and the holes extend through the entire thickness of the laminated glass window unit.

[0094] According to one feature, the component includes means for adjusting the depth of the viewing window within the aperture; specifically, these adjustment means are integrated with the interface component or removably attached between the interface component and the receiving component. The adjustment means form an assembly such as a compressible washer or washers of different thicknesses. Additionally, the interface component and the receiving component may include guides (male and female types, such as grooves and ribs) to facilitate mounting the interface component and thus the infrared camera.

[0095] The present invention also relates to the aforementioned components according to the invention, and a visible light camera located adjacent to the through-hole and behind the glass window unit, wherein visible radiation from the visible light camera passes through the at least one glass sheet of the glass window unit, and / or a LIDAR or a camera receiving near-infrared radiation in the wavelength range of 0.7 µm to 5 µm, preferably 0.7 µm to 2.5 µm, which will be arranged behind a window that is transparent to near-infrared radiation. The present invention also relates to the aforementioned components according to the invention, wherein a glass window unit includes at least one window preferably near a through-hole, the at least one window being transparent to visible light and / or transparent to near-infrared radiation with wavelengths in the range between 0.7 µm and 5 µm, said at least one window preferably being located within a cutout in a masking layer present in the glass window unit, particularly within all or part of a cutout surrounding the through-hole (in which a (far-infrared) observation window is accommodated), and, optionally, said at least one window being located in a selected region of a laminated glass window unit having a blind hole in the inner glass sheet of the glass window unit, and preferably an insert made of a material transparent to near-infrared radiation with wavelengths in the range between 0.7 µm and 5 µm being arranged in the blind hole by adhesively bonding to the surface F2 of the outer glass sheet of the glass window unit. The aforementioned components may include a visible light camera and / or a LIDAR or a camera that receives infrared radiation with wavelengths in the range of 0.7 µm to 5 µm, preferably 0.7 µm to 2.5 µm, which will be arranged behind the window that is transparent to visible light and / or transparent to near-infrared radiation.

[0096] The interface components (and infrared camera) can be housed in a cover (plastic, metal, etc.), for example, fastened to a plate (with holes aligned with through-holes) that is adhesively bonded to the inner surface of the window unit. The cover can also be fully or partially fastened to a vehicle pillar or roof. The plate is optional, and the cover can be fastened in different ways. The cover and / or plate can be masked by an opaque layer.

[0097] The present invention also relates to a method for manufacturing the aforementioned glass window unit according to the invention, the method comprising a preliminary step of creating a hole in the thickness of the glass window unit (a hole inside the glass window unit, or a notch type at the edge of the glass window unit), the hole possibly being obtained by cutting, and when the glass window is laminated, by cutting before or after lamination, followed by a step of fixing the aforementioned receiving member according to the invention into the hole, the receiving member having a hole (which has a hollow body) and an internal cross-section capable of receiving a portion of an interface member and including a retaining device for fastening the interface member. The method according to the invention includes the step of removably mounting the interface member into the hole.

[0098] The present invention also relates to a method for installing or removing a glass window unit, characterized in that an infrared camera is removably installed or removed from a through-hole of the glass window unit by means of an interface component removably installed or removed relative to a receiving component (equipped with a hole), particularly by means of a snap-fit ​​or release or by means of a quarter-turn locking system.

[0099] The present invention also relates to a vehicle comprising the aforementioned components according to the invention, particularly a road or rail vehicle, especially a car, a semi-autonomous vehicle, or an autonomous vehicle with a driver assistance system. The vehicle window unit according to the invention is particularly a windshield.

[0100] In one embodiment, the invention relates to a kit in the form of an interface component configured for mounting on an infrared camera, particularly on the lens body and / or sensor housing of the camera, the camera operating in a wavelength range of 5 to 20 µm, particularly 8 and 14 µm, in a receiving component already mounted in a glass window unit or forming part of the kit, the interface component and receiving component characterized by the interface component and receiving component of the aforementioned assembly according to the invention. Specifically: - The interface component is adapted to be removably and mechanically fastened to the housing and / or lens body of an infrared camera. In particular, the interface component includes an attachment portion that can be fastened, in whole or in part, around the periphery of the housing and / or lens body. – and / or the interface component is adapted to be removably fastened to the lens body of the infrared camera, in particular, the interface component includes an attachment portion, especially in an annular shape, which can be fastened wholly or partially around the periphery of the lens body, preferably by threaded fastening or snap fastening. - and / or the interface component includes a fastening portion adapted to mate with a fastening area provided on the receiving component, particularly a fastening area protruding from the shoulder of the receiving component. - and / or the interface component includes a spacer capable of connecting a camera, particularly a lens body of the camera, to the receiving component; the interface component includes an integration portion located at the end of the spacer and housed in the receiving component; preferably, the integration portion houses an observation window and is flush with the surface F1 of the glass window unit.

[0101] Finally, the present invention relates to a portion of the glass assembly as already described (before installation with the interface components). The present invention thus provides a glass assembly comprising: - A (preferably laminated) vehicle window unit, particularly a (preferably laminated) windshield, comprising at least one glass sheet and at least one through-hole in the glass sheet. - A receiving component having a hollow body and mounted in a through-hole, the receiving component removably accommodating an interface component including an integration portion for integration within the through-hole and accommodating an observation window, the interface component extending beyond the through-hole to face the internal environment, and capable of connecting a glass window unit to an infrared camera operating in the wavelength range of 5 to 20 µm, particularly capable of connecting the glass window unit to the lens body and / or infrared sensor housing of the camera. Specifically, the receiving component includes a shoulder abutting against the inner surface of the glass window unit and / or the inner surface of a filling element in the hole, the filling element being inserted between the hole and the receiving component, and the receiving component includes a fastening region protruding from the shoulder and engaging a fastening portion of the interface component (preferably extending radially relative to the lens body of the infrared camera). Attached Figure Description

[0102] The invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings and by means of purely illustrative examples that do not limit the scope of the invention, wherein: - [ Figure 1 [Illustration 1] is a partial cross-sectional view of an assembly according to the invention, which includes a vehicle window unit with a hole, a receiving component housed in a through hole of the window unit, an interface component with an observation window transparent to far-infrared radiation and arranged at the through hole of the window unit to access the external environment, and an infrared camera fastened to the window unit via the interface component.

[0103] - [ Figure 2 It shows Figure 1 A schematic exploded perspective view of the infrared camera, interface components, and receiving components of the glass window unit.

[0104] - [ Figure 3 [] is a variant in which the interface components are not aligned with the viewing window, and the camera lens body is not aligned with the viewing window.

[0105] - [ Figure 4 This is a variant embodiment of the through-hole of the glass window unit, which forms a notch starting from the edge of the glass window unit, rather than a closed hole located at a certain distance from the edge of the glass window unit.

[0106] - [ Figure 5 [Illustration 1] is a cross-sectional view of another embodiment of the glass window unit according to the present invention, including an infrared camera and a visible light camera or near-infrared LIDAR arranged side by side.

[0107] The accompanying diagram is schematic and not drawn to scale. Detailed Implementation

[0108] The component 1' shown in the figure according to the invention is intended, for example, to be used as a windshield for road vehicles (or rail vehicles).

[0109] Component 1' includes a glass window unit 1 with a through-hole 10, a receiving component 4 in the through-hole, and an interface component 3 connected to an infrared camera 2 operating in the far-infrared range between 5 and 20 µm, particularly between 8 and 14 µm, the infrared camera 2 being mounted behind the glass window unit. For windshields, the through-hole is preferably located in the upper part of the glass window unit, and even in the area of ​​the rear observation window.

[0110] exist Figure 5 In the embodiments shown, in addition to Figure 1 In addition to the fixed infrared camera 2 shown, a camera operating in the visible range or a LIDAR operating in the near-infrared range is arranged near the infrared camera 2 and positioned behind the glass of the glass window unit, which is transparent to wavelengths in the visible range.

[0111] The infrared camera 2 includes a housing 20 and a lens body 21, the housing 20 containing an infrared sensor. The lens body 21 is connected to the housing at one end and has a so-called observation end 22 at the opposite end of the housing, which is typically equipped with an observation lens.

[0112] According to the invention, the interface component 3 is used to directly fasten the infrared camera 2 to the glass window unit 1 and acts as a transparent window through which infrared wavelengths penetrate the glass window unit via the observation window 30. The interface component 3 can be installed in the through hole 10 of the glass window unit. The hole 10 extends through the entire thickness of the glass window unit. This hole is preferably located at the top edge of the windshield (particularly centered).

[0113] According to the invention, the interface component 3 makes it possible to bypass the glass in the glass window unit, ensuring that the infrared camera 2 can operate at wavelengths within the far-infrared wavelength range. The interface component 3 thus has an observation window 30 that is open to the external environment of the glass window unit 1 and is transparent to far-infrared radiation (at least at the operating wavelength). Therefore, the glass of the glass window unit, which is opaque to infrared wavelengths, particularly far-infrared wavelengths (between 5 µm and 20 µm), has an opening and therefore does not act as a barrier, nor does it interfere with the operation of the infrared camera 2, and the interface component 3 has a window built into the through-hole 10 of the glass window unit. The glass window unit is simplified because it is not necessary to incorporate any specific material into the glass window unit to make it transparent to infrared wavelengths, particularly far-infrared wavelengths. The interface component 3 incorporates and secures the window, which is transparent to infrared light through the glass window unit, to the glass window unit.

[0114] The interface component 3 is removably mounted in the through-hole 10 of the window unit 1. Specifically, this makes it possible to manufacture the infrared camera separately from the window unit, accommodating any type of infrared camera and facilitating maintenance. The window unit 1 (more specifically, the through-hole 10 of the window unit) includes a receiving component 4, which mates with the interface component 3 to ensure a removable (and fluid-impermeable) mounting on the surface of the window unit 1. The receiving component 4 (fluid-impermeable) is hermetically integrated into the through-hole 10 of the window unit 1. The receiving component 4 is hollow and opens through its center. The interface component 3 is removably and hermetically fastened to the receiving component 4 to secure the infrared camera to the window unit 1.

[0115] Interface component 3 is adapted to the lens body 21 of infrared camera 2. Interface component 3 is removable from the lens body 21 of infrared camera 2 and is compatible with existing infrared cameras. To ensure this removability, various models of interface component 3 can be available to accommodate different models of infrared camera 2. Interface component 3 will be described in more detail below. The lens body is, for example, a hollow cylinder with a constant or variable diameter (stepped, etc.). The housing can be parallelepiped in shape.

[0116] Glass window unit 1 ( Figure 1 For example, a laminated glass window unit. Window unit 1 can be curved. It includes: - Outer glass sheet 11, having an outer main surface (referred to as surface F1) intended to face the external environment and an opposing main surface (referred to as surface F2); outer glass sheet 11 has a thickness of 2.1 mm, or even 1.6 mm, or even less. - The inner glass sheet 12 (or as a variant, a plastic sheet) (the glass may be tinted) has a thickness of 2.1 mm, or even 1.6 mm, or even less, with an inner main surface (referred to as surface F4) and an opposite surface (referred to as surface F3) designed to face the passenger compartment. - Two glass sheets 11 and 12 are connected to each other by an intermediate layer 13 (e.g., transparent PVB) made of a polymeric material (especially thermoplastic polymeric material) (e.g., PVB), having a sub-millimeter thickness, such as 0.76 mm or 0.81 mm, single or multiple layers, and possibly having acoustic properties.

[0117] The glass window unit 1 may include a coating or masking layer (camouflage) 14 on one of its surfaces F1 to F4, which is opaque, for example, black in color (such as a layer of black enamel or paint), extending around the hole 10 to conceal the infrared camera 2.

[0118] A through-hole 10 extends through the thickness of the glass window unit between its outer surface F1 and inner surface F4. The hole 10 is defined by an inner wall (whose height corresponds to the thickness of the glass window unit). The hole 10 can be arranged in the internal region of the glass window unit (at a certain distance from the edge of the glass window unit), such as... Figure 1 As shown. As a variation, the hole 10 can be located at the edge of the glass window unit, forming a notch in the edge and thickness of the glass window unit, such as... Figure 4 As shown. In terms of its shape and size, the hole 10 matches the receiving part 4. The hole 10 has been created in the glass window unit 1 by cutting. This cutting can be done in a flat or curved glass window unit, and when the glass window unit is laminated, it is done before or after lamination.

[0119] The glass window unit 1 includes a receiving part 4 attached after the cut hole at the hole 10. The receiving part 4 is hollow and opens through its center to accommodate a portion of the interface part 3. The receiving part 4 is used to removably fasten the interface part 3. The receiving part 4 is used to mechanically engage with the interface part 3.

[0120] The receiving member 4 includes a hollow body 40 extending at least along the depth of the hole 10. The receiving member 4 is at least fastened to the wall of the hole 10. The receiving member 4 may additionally include a shoulder 41 projecting outward from the body 40, such as... Figure 1 As shown in the example. The receiving component 4 is preferably additionally fixed to the glass window unit via the shoulder 41, which presses against the inner glass sheet 12 of the glass window unit (abutting surface F4) and surrounds the periphery of the hole 10. The peripheral shoulder 41 extends in a plane perpendicular to the extension of the hollow body and protrudes from the outer surface of the body. Preferably, the receiving component 4 does not extend onto the outer glass sheet 11; in particular, it is flush with surface F1 (and preferably also with the integration portion of the interface component). Figure 4 In the example, the receiving component 4 is fixed to the filling element 4', which is inserted between the wall of the hole 10 and the receiving component 4. With the filling element 4' present, the receiving component can be fixed to or pressed against the filling element 4' (via the shoulder) (either by extending all the way to the outer plate 11 or not extending beyond the filling element 4').

[0121] In terms of shape and size, the internal cross-section of the hollow body 40 of the receiving component 4 matches the cross-section of the portion 31 of the interface component 3 that accommodates the viewing window 30; the portion 31 is referred to as the integration portion and is inserted into the hole 10 in the body 40 of the receiving component 4. The hollow body 40 of the receiving component 4 has an internal cross-section defined by the cross-section of the integration portion 31 of the interface component 3. The receiving component 4 of the glass window unit conforms to the interface component 3; it conforms in both geometry and fastening. The portion 31 is preferably flush with the surface F1 of the glass window unit.

[0122] The receiving component 4 is made of plastic and / or metal. The plastic can be filled or unfilled. The filler in the plastic will be selected based on desired functional properties such as mechanical strength, UV aging, heat resistance, etc. The plastic can be thermoplastic. The plastic can be flexible (i.e., it can have a hardness between 60 and 90 Shore A). The plastic is specifically selected from the following materials: polyamide (PA) (such as unfilled PA66), or PBT (polybutylene terephthalate), or ABS (acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene), or ASA (acrylonitrile-styrene-acrylate), or ABS / PC (acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene / polycarbonate). The metal is, for example, aluminum or sintered steel. The material of the receiving component 4 has a coefficient of thermal expansion that is adapted to the coefficient of thermal expansion of the glass window unit 1 and the interface component 3 in order to minimize the differences between the various materials. The material of the receiving component 4 has a coefficient of thermal expansion, for example, between 0.8 and 1.2 times that of glass.

[0123] The receiving component 4 is fastened to the window unit (impermeable to fluid) by adhesive bonding, overmolding, or press-fit installation. For adhesive bonding, the adhesive is, for example, polyurethane (PU). When fixed to the filler element 4', the receiving component 4 is fixed by overmolding, adhesive bonding, or press-fit installation (with a seal between the receiving component 4 and the filler element 4').

[0124] The receiving component 4 includes a fastening region 42 for removably securing the interface component 3. The fastening region 42 of the receiving component 4 is arranged facing (within) the hole 10 and / or outside the hole 10. Specifically, the fastening region of the receiving component 4 may be arranged in the wall of the hollow body 40 and / or in the peripheral shoulder 41 and / or in an additional portion of the receiving component 4. By way of a non-limiting example, in Figure 1 The diagram schematically shows that the fastening region 42 of the receiving member 4 for fastening the interface member 3 forms a protrusion 42 protruding from the shoulder 41. Here, the shoulder 41 is rounded, and the fastening protrusion 42 extends radially outward in a plane parallel to the shoulder.

[0125] The receiving component 4 can be made of metal and / or plastic. Plastics are specifically selected from materials such as polyamide (PA) like unfilled PA66, or PBT, or ABS, or ASA, or ABS / PC. Metals are, for example, aluminum or sintered steel.

[0126] The interface component 3 includes an observation window 30 transparent to infrared radiation; an integration portion 31, which integrates with the observation window 30 and is designed to be housed in the receiving component 4 of the glass window unit; a spacer portion 32, which connects the observation end 22 of the lens body 21 of the infrared camera to the glass window unit 1; and a fastening portion 33, which is adapted to mate with the fastening area 42 of the receiving component 4. Additionally, the interface component 3 (particularly the spacer portion 30) includes an attachment portion 34 at its end facing the lens body 21, which is preferably removably fastened to the lens body 21 of the infrared camera. In one embodiment, the interface component 3 (particularly the integration portion 31 and the spacer portion 32) is configured to support the weight of the infrared camera 2 when the interface component 3 is fastened to the glass window unit 1.

[0127] The attachment portion 34 of the interface component 3 is designed to match the lens body 21 of the infrared camera in terms of geometry and fastening. The attachment portion 34 is particularly annular, while the lens body of the infrared camera is typically circular. The attachment portion 34 forms, for example, a ring that is threadedly fastened to the lens body (e.g., near the observation end 22 of the infrared camera).

[0128] The spacer 32 has, for example, a shape that is adapted to the glass window unit 1 when tilted ( Figure 1 The lens body 21 of the infrared camera is positioned along a horizontal plane in the vehicle's usage location, while the observation window 30 is positioned in a plane inclined parallel to the glass window unit 1. The integration section 31 forms the end of the spacer section 32. The integration section 31 is arranged fluid-impermeable inside the hollow body 40 of the receiving component 4 at the interface using a sealing device 6 (e.g., of a bonding compound type).

[0129] The observation window 30 is made of a material that is transparent to infrared radiation in the far-infrared range between 5 µm and 20 µm, particularly between 8 and 14 µm. The observation window 30 does not protrude beyond the outer surface F1 of the glass window unit. Preferably, the observation window 30 is flush with the outer surface F1 of the glass window unit and does not protrude from it. The observation window 30 preferably has a thickness not exceeding 10 mm. In particular, the observation window 30 and the integrated portion 31 have a thickness equal to, or even less than, the thickness of the (monochrome or laminated) glass window unit, which is preferably at most 10 mm, or 6 mm, or even 4 mm.

[0130] The material of the observation window 30 may be formed of materials including zinc sulfide (ZnS) and / or zinc selenide (ZnSe) and / or barium fluoride (BaF2) and / or germanium (Ge) and / or silicon (Si).

[0131] The material of the transparent infrared radiation observation window 30 advantageously has a wavelength of less than 0.5 cm for light rays having at least one wavelength selected between 5 µm and 20 µm (inclusive), preferably between 8 µm and 14 µm (inclusive). -1 Preferably less than 0.1 cm -1 The light absorption coefficient is [value missing]. Therefore, the viewing window 30 specifically allows the transmission of light rays from the infrared camera. The material of the viewing window 30 can have a transmittance of at least 50%, and particularly at least 70%, for light rays with wavelengths between 8 µm and 14 µm.

[0132] The materials of the viewing window 30 include, for example: - This includes compounds containing multispectral zinc sulfide (especially those obtained after hot isostatic pressing), particularly selenium, such as ZnS. x Se 1-x Where x is greater than or equal to 0.97 (inclusive) and less than 1 (inclusive), especially multispectral ZnS, and / or - Compounds including zinc selenide, especially ZnSe, and particularly sulfur, such as ZnSe. y S 1-y Where y is preferably greater than or equal to 0.97 (inclusive of endpoints) and less than 1 (inclusive of endpoints), and / or - Compounds including barium fluoride, particularly calcium and / or strontium, especially Ba. 1-i-j Ca i Sr j F2, where i+j is strictly less than 1, and i and j are preferably each greater than 0.25 (inclusive of the endpoints), or Ba 1-i Ca i F2, where i is strictly less than 1 and preferably greater than 0.25 (including the endpoints), especially BaF2.

[0133] The viewing window 30 may include a mechanical and / or chemical protective layer on its outer surface facing the external environment. The mechanical and / or chemical protective layer is a coating selected from those specifically including a zinc sulfide layer, a diamond layer, or a DLC (diamond-like carbon) layer.

[0134] To ensure that the integrated part 31 is held in the proper position within the receiving component 4, the spacer part 32 is fastened to the receiving component 4 of the glass window unit 1 by its fastening part 33. The fastening part 33 of the interface component 3 is integral with the integrated part 31. The fastening part 33 of the interface component 3 is... Figure 1 The figure shows the integration part 31 outside the through hole 10 when it is installed in the receiving part 4. The fastening part 33 can have various shapes and geometries, depending on the fastening arrangement and how it is fastened to the receiving part 4.

[0135] The receiving component 4 and the interface component 3 include mutually cooperating retaining devices 5 located at the fastening area 42 of the receiving component 4 and the attachment portion 33 of the interface component, respectively, for assembling the interface component 3 to the receiving component 4 of the glass window unit. The retaining devices 5 may be made of the same material as the respective components (i.e., the receiving component 4 and the interface component 3), or they may not be made of the same material. These retaining devices 5 may be integrated with the fastening area 42 and the fastening portion 33, or they may be removably attached to them for engagement. By way of a non-limiting example of an integrated (one-piece) retaining device for the receiving component 4 and the interface component 3, the retaining device is a snap-fit ​​fastening device or an integrated bayonet and quarter-turn system. As an example, the fastening portion 33 of the interface component 3 includes a fastening tab that engages with the fastening tab 42 of the receiving component 4 in a snap-fit ​​manner using a spring steel clip 5 integrated in the fastening tab 33. Snap-fit ​​fastening is to be understood as the presence of a male elastic fastening member intended to engage in a female receiving form. As a variation, the attached retaining device 5 is a screw 5, which is preferably threaded onto the fastening tabs 42 and 33 using threadlocker to ensure that the fastening remains secure over time despite vehicle vibrations.

[0136] exist Figure 3 In the illustrated embodiment, the spacer 32 of the interface component has a different shape (e.g., shaped as a bend in this case) to arrange the camera housing 20 and the lens body 21 in a plane parallel to (or at an angle to) the plane of the glass window unit, while making it possible to arrange the integration part 31 together with the observation window 30 in the through-hole 10 of the glass window unit. To achieve optical continuity between the lens body 21 and the observation window 30, the interior of the spacer 32 includes at least one reflector 7 (IR). The removable fastening of the interface component 3 to the receiving component can be similar to... Figure 1 As shown.

[0137] Finally, Figure 4 In the embodiment of the glass window unit 1 shown, the hole 10 forms a notch at the edge of the glass window unit and thus has an open periphery. In the first scenario (not shown), the receiving member 4 (which is hollow) has a shape well-suited for this purpose, including an outer cross-section that matches the geometry of the notch 10. In the second scenario ( Figure 4In this configuration, the receiving component 4 has a cross-section different from that of the hole 10 (it does not have an outer cross-section with a matching notch); the filling element 4' is then inserted between the receiving component 4 and the wall of the hole 10 of the glass window unit. In both scenarios, the interface component 3 is removably fastened to the receiving component 4 as described above. The filling element 4' is also preferably coplanar with the outer surface F1 of the glass window unit. The filling element 4' is fixed to the glass of the glass window unit 1, and the receiving component 4 is fixed to the filling element 4'. The filling element 4' is preferably adhesively bonded or overmolded to the glass. The receiving component 4 is preferably adhesively bonded or overmolded to the filling element 4'. For example, the filling element 4' is made of plastic (especially PC (polycarbonate), PMMA, etc.). The (fluid-impermeable) seal between the interface component 3 and the receiving component 4 is as described above. The seal between the receiving component 4 and the filling element 4' is achieved, for example, by these joining methods (sealing adhesive, or overmolding, or press-fit installation that seals due to the material composition).

[0138] Finally, in one embodiment ( Figure 5 In this configuration, the glass window unit 1 may include a visible light camera 8 and / or a LiDAR, positioned parallel to (vertically or horizontally aligned, or offset from) the infrared camera 2. The glass window unit 1 includes at least one window 14' within a masking layer 14 at a distance from the aperture 10. This window 14' is transparent to visible light and / or transparent to near-infrared radiation with wavelengths between 0.7 µm and 5 µm. The window 14' may be, for example, a cutout in the masking layer 14, and the thickness of the glass window unit is transparent in the visible range. Window 14' (particularly for providing near-infrared transparency) includes a blind hole 15 formed in the thickness of the inner glass sheet 12 and, if necessary, in the intermediate layer 13. The outer glass sheet 11 is transparent to the near-infrared and is composed, for example, of ultra-clear glass. The glass window unit may include an insert 16 made of a material transparent to near-infrared radiation in the wavelength range between 0.7 µm and 5 µm. The insert 16 is disposed in the blind hole 15 and bonded to surface F2 of the outer glass sheet 11 by an adhesive (not shown) (such as OCA (optically transparent adhesive)), or thermoplastic EVA adhesive (EVA = ethylene-vinyl acetate, from the sheet, etc.) or by a (thin) layer based on PVB (coating, etc.) or acrylate or silicone. The adhesive may be thermoplastic or cross-linked. A near-infrared transparent masking layer (not shown) may be disposed on the insert 16, on its adhesive bonding side. Several embodiments of near-infrared transparent windows for arranging LIDARs in windshields are also described in patent application WO2023118710.

Claims

1. A component (1') comprising: - A vehicle window unit (1), particularly a windshield, comprising at least one glass sheet (11) and at least one through hole (10) in the glass sheet. - A receiving component (4), which has a hollow body (40) and is installed in the through hole (10), - An observation window (30) that is transparent to wavelengths in the range of 5 to 20 µm, the observation window being located in the through-hole and housed within the hollow body. The component is characterized in that it includes an interface part (3) which includes the viewing window (30), the interface part (3) being removably fastened to the receiving part (4), and the interface part (3) extending beyond the through hole and adapted to be fastened to an infrared camera.

2. The component according to claim 1, characterized in that, The interface component (3) includes a spacer (32) that enables the camera, particularly the lens body (21) of the camera, to be connected to the receiving component (4).

3. The component according to claim 2, characterized in that, The interface component (3) includes an integration portion (31) located at the end of the spacer portion (32) and housed in the receiving component (4).

4. The component according to any one of claims 2 or 3, characterized in that, The spacer (32) has a shape adapted to cooperate with the receiving member (4) such that the viewing window (30) is parallel to the glass window unit (1), particularly flush with the outside (F1) of the glass window unit which is intended to face the external environment, and / or the spacer faces the through hole in at least one section and includes a section offset from the through hole.

5. The component according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The interface component (3) is adapted to be removably fastened to an infrared camera, particularly to the lens body (21) of the camera, to the infrared sensor housing of the camera, or to both the lens body and the housing.

6. The component according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The interface component (3) is adapted to be removably mechanically fastened to the housing and / or lens body (21) of the infrared camera, and in particular, the interface component (3) includes an attachment (34) capable of being fastened in whole or in part around the periphery of the housing and / or the lens body (21).

7. The component according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The interface component (3) is adapted to be removably fastened to the lens body (21) of the infrared camera. In particular, the interface component (3) includes an attachment (34), which is in particular annular in shape and is capable of being fastened in whole or in part around the periphery of the lens body (21), preferably by threaded fastening or snap fastening.

8. The component according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The interface component (3) includes a fastening portion (33) adapted to engage with a fastening region (42) provided on the receiving component (4).

9. The component according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, It includes a retaining device (5) for removably securing the interface component (3) in the receiving component (4), the retaining device (5) being integrally integrated with the interface component and the receiving component, and / or the retaining device (5) being removably attached to engage with a fastening portion (33) provided on the exterior of the interface component and a fastening area (42) provided in the receiving component (4), in particular the retaining device (5) being a snap-fit ​​fastening element, or a screw, or a bayonet and quarter-turn system.

10. The component according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The interface component and the receiving component (4) are fastened together by threads, particularly the receiving component (4) having internal threads and the interface component (3) having external threads. In particular, the internal threads and the external threads are arranged on the portions of the receiving component and the interface component located inside the hole (10), and / or outside the hole and on the inner surface side of the glass window unit. Alternatively, the receiving component (4) and the interface component (3) are fastened together by snap-fit, particularly the receiving component (4) having a female snap-fit ​​fastening form and the interface component (3) having a male snap-fit ​​fastening form, especially the male form made of spring steel, which can be engaged by joining the female form. The snap-fit ​​fastening occurs inside the hole and / or outside the hole and on the inner surface side of the glass window unit.

11. The component according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The receiving component (4) is installed in the through hole (10) by adhesive bonding, overmolding, or press fitting.

12. The component according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The receiving component (4) is installed in the through hole (10) forming a notch, and in particular, the filling element (4'), especially the plastic and / or metal component, is inserted between the wall of the through hole and the receiving component and installed in the hole, especially by adhesive bonding, overmolding or press fitting, and the receiving component is installed in the filling element, especially by adhesive bonding, overmolding or press fitting.

13. The component according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The receiving component (4) includes a shoulder (41) abutting against the inner surface of the glass window unit and / or the inner surface of a filling element inserted in the hole between the hole and the receiving component, and a fastening region (42) protruding from the shoulder (41) and engaging with a fastening portion (33) of the interface component (3), the fastening portion (33) preferably extending radially relative to the lens body (21) of the infrared camera.

14. The component according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The interface component (3) is made of plastic and / or metal, and the receiving component (4) is made of plastic and / or metal.

15. The component according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, It includes a sealing device (6) disposed between the interface component (3) and the receiving component (4) inside the through hole (10) and / or outside the hole, or the sealing device (6) is formed by the materials of the receiving component (4) and the interface component (3) and by the connection of the receiving component and the interface component together.

16. The component according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The glass window unit (1) is laminated, and the hole (10) extends through the entire thickness of the laminated glass window unit.

17. The component according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The glass window unit (1) preferably includes at least one window (14') near the through hole (10), the at least one window (14') being transparent to visible light and / or transparent to near-infrared radiation in the wavelength range between 0.7 µm and 5 µm. The at least one window (14') is preferably located within a cutout in a shielding layer (14) present in the glass window unit, particularly within a cutout surrounding all or part of the through-hole (10), in which the observation window (30) is accommodated. Optionally, the at least one window (14') is located in a region of the selected laminated glass window unit, the region having a blind hole (15) in the inner glass sheet (12) of the glass window unit, and preferably... An insert (16) made of a material transparent to near-infrared radiation in the wavelength range of 0.7 µm to 5 µm is arranged in the blind hole (15) by being bonded to the surface F2 of the outer glass sheet (11) of the glass window unit.

18. A vehicle comprising components according to any one of the preceding claims, said vehicle being particularly a road or rail vehicle, particularly a car, a semi-autonomous vehicle, or an autonomous vehicle with a driver assistance system.

19. A kit in the form of an interface component (3) configured to be mounted on an infrared camera (2), particularly on the lens body and / or infrared sensor housing of the camera, and configured to be removably mounted in a receiving component (4) already mounted in a vehicle window unit (1) or forming part of the kit, the interface component (3) and the receiving component (4) being characterized in that the interface component (3) and the receiving component (4) are components according to any one of claims 1 to 17.

20. A glass assembly forming a portion of an assembly according to any one of claims 1 to 17, comprising: - A vehicle window unit (1), particularly a windshield, comprising at least one glass sheet (11) and at least one through hole (10) in the glass sheet. - A receiving component (4) having a hollow body (40) and mounted in a through hole (10), the receiving component being capable of removably accommodating an interface component (3), the interface component (3) including an integration portion for integration in the through hole and accommodating an observation window, the interface component (3) extending beyond the through hole to face the internal environment and being capable of connecting the glass window unit to an infrared camera having an operating wavelength in the range of 5 to 20 µm.

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