Motor vehicle with E-Ink film on exterior paneling parts and electrochromic vehicle windows and method for operating a motor vehicle

Abstract

The invention relates to a motor vehicle (10) having an outer skin. A first partial region of the outer skin is provided by outer paneling parts (12) of the motor vehicle (10), at least one of which has a functional layer whose behavior with regard to reflection and absorption of solar radiation can be changed by applying an electrical voltage. A control device (30) is designed to change the behavior of the functional layer as a function of a state variable that influences a temperature in a passenger compartment of the motor vehicle (10). A second partial region of the outer skin is provided by vehicle windows (16) of the motor vehicle (10). At least one of the vehicle windows (16) has an electrochromic layer whose behavior with regard to reflection and / or absorption of solar radiation can be changed by applying an electrical voltage.The control device (30) is designed to change the behavior of the electrochromic layer as a function of the state variable. Furthermore, the invention relates to a method for operating the motor vehicle (10).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a motor vehicle with an outer skin, wherein a first partial region of the outer skin is provided by a plurality of outer paneling parts of the motor vehicle. At least one of the outer paneling parts has a functional layer, wherein a behavior of the functional layer with regard to reflection and absorption of solar radiation can be changed by applying an electrical voltage. The motor vehicle has a control device which is designed to change the behavior of the functional layer as a function of at least one state variable. In this case, the state variable has an influence on a temperature in a passenger compartment of the motor vehicle. A second partial region of the outer skin is provided by a plurality of vehicle windows of the motor vehicle. Furthermore, the invention relates to a method for operating such a motor vehicle.

[0002] When exposed to sunlight, the temperature in the passenger compartment of a vehicle rises rapidly and more sharply than the air temperature and the ground temperature outside the vehicle. The solar radiation initially heats the interior and parts of the driver's cab. The air in the passenger compartment, heated by the heated interior, is only slightly cooled from the outside when the vehicle windows are closed, as there is virtually no air exchange. Furthermore, the low permeability of the vehicle windows to thermal radiation or infrared radiation plays a significant role in the heat buildup within the passenger compartment.

[0003] DE 10 2020 113 398 A1 describes a motor vehicle with a functional surface layer whose visual appearance can be electrically switched by means of a control device. To form a solar thermal air conditioning system, a sensor is provided which is designed to detect solar radiation and temperature and subsequently generate a signal representing these environmental variables. The control device is designed to switch the functional surface layer between a lighter color and a darker color or between a darker color and a lighter color depending on the received signal. The functional surface layer is designed in the form of e-paper foils or has e-paper elements, where the term e-paper stands for "electronic paper."

[0004] When used in a motor vehicle, solar control glass is able to reduce excessive solar radiation, for example in the passenger compartment, and thus excessive heating of the air in the passenger compartment. This effect can be achieved with solar control glass through absorption or reflection. In solar control glass designed for absorption, dyes such as iron(II) oxide, iron(III) oxide or copper(II) oxide can be added to the glass melt. The reflective glass can exhibit reflection in the non-visible range, i.e. in the infrared range, which is not perceptible to the human eye, and / or in the visible range of the electromagnetic spectrum. Such solar control glass can be coated with metallic, dielectric or semiconducting substances as a firmly adhering film.

[0005] When such solar control glass is used for the windows of a motor vehicle, the absorbing or reflecting properties are present even when this is undesirable due to weather conditions, particularly solar radiation. The use of solar control glass for the windows of a motor vehicle also results in the passenger compartment being darkened year-round, even when solar control is not actually needed.

[0006] CN 112937263 A describes a system for changing the colour of a vehicle window of a motor vehicle, using electrochromic glass as the window glass.

[0007] Such switchable vehicle windows only tint when needed and, unlike solar control glass, do not darken the passenger compartment year-round. However, switchable thermochromic vehicle windows have the disadvantage of inertia. It can take approximately 20 minutes for the thermochromic glass to completely tint or de-tint. If a motor vehicle's windshield is switched on with thermochromic tinting while the driver is manually steering the vehicle, this can also result in an undesirable restriction of the driver's field of vision. This applies even if, despite the thermochromic tinting, visible light of the order of 50% to 70% continues to pass through the windshield.

[0008] The object of the present invention is to provide a motor vehicle of the type mentioned at the outset in which the reaching of undesirable extreme temperatures in the passenger compartment can be particularly effectively avoided, and to provide a corresponding method for operating a motor vehicle.

[0009] This object is achieved by a motor vehicle having the features of patent claim 1 and by a method having the features of patent claim 10. Advantageous embodiments with expedient further developments of the invention are specified in the dependent patent claims and in the following description.

[0010] The motor vehicle according to the invention has an outer skin, wherein a first partial region of the outer skin is provided by a plurality of outer paneling parts of the motor vehicle. At least one of the outer paneling parts has a functional layer, wherein a behavior of the functional layer with regard to reflection and absorption of solar radiation can be changed by applying an electrical voltage. The motor vehicle has a control device which is designed to change the behavior of the functional layer as a function of at least one state variable. The at least one state variable has an influence on a temperature in a passenger compartment of the motor vehicle. A second partial region of the outer skin of the motor vehicle is provided by a plurality of vehicle windows of the motor vehicle.At least one of the vehicle windows has at least one electrochromic layer, wherein the behavior of the at least one electrochromic layer with respect to reflection and / or absorption of solar radiation can be changed by applying an electrical voltage. The control device is designed to effect the change in the behavior of the at least one electrochromic layer depending on the at least one state variable.

[0011] Thus, the control device not only allows the behavior of the functional layer of the non-transparent outer panel parts of the motor vehicle to be adjusted, provided the respective outer panel part has the functional layer. Rather, the control device also allows the behavior of the at least one electrochromic layer to be changed by applying an electrical voltage. This makes it possible for the thermal behavior of the motor vehicle to be controlled by the control device not only in the area of ​​the at least one non-transparent outer panel part having the functional layer, but also in the area of ​​the vehicle window having the at least one electrochromic layer.

[0012] Consequently, the attainment of undesirable extreme temperatures in the passenger compartment of the motor vehicle can be particularly effectively prevented. By providing at least one outer paneling part comprising the functional layer and by providing the at least one vehicle window with the at least one electrochromic layer, a system is created which, depending on the weather conditions, supports the motor vehicle in avoiding the occurrence of extreme temperatures in the passenger compartment. Furthermore, the system enables smart, switchable, and economical vehicle air conditioning. This is because, on the one hand, the behavior of the at least one electrochromic layer of the at least one vehicle window can be controlled, and, on the other hand, the reflection and absorption, in particular of infrared radiation, in the region of the outer paneling parts adjacent to the at least one vehicle window, which have the functional layer, can be controlled.

[0013] In the case of a vehicle window having at least one electrochromic layer, the property of electrochromic materials is used to change the light transmittance of the layer depending on the applied direct voltage.

[0014] Preferably, the at least one vehicle window has a first electrochromic layer, the behavior of which with regard to the reflection of solar radiation can be changed by applying the electrical voltage, and a second electrochromic layer, the behavior of which with regard to the absorption of solar radiation can be changed by applying the electrical voltage.

[0015] The reflective electrochromic layer, which can be switched to opacity by applying an electrical voltage, can contain, for example, silver particles or silver perchlorate particles present in a gel, in particular an aqueous gel. However, other particles, in particular metallic particles, can also be used for the reflective electrochromic layer. This is because metals have an extremely high reflectivity of approximately 80% to approximately 96%, particularly with regard to thermal radiation, which is critical for heating the passenger compartment. Therefore, such an electrochromic layer can be used as a thermal mirror. The light transmittance of the vehicle window can be changed by applying a direct voltage, with the application of the direct voltage being effected by the control device.

[0016] The second electrochromic layer, whose solar radiation absorption behavior can be modified by applying an electrical voltage, can be formed, for example, as a polymer film containing particles in the form of soot particles. The orientation of the soot particles can be changed by applying an electrical voltage due to the electrostatic conditions then present in the polymer film. This allows the absorption behavior of the second electrochromic layer, which can be switched to opaque or light-impermeable form, to be modified.

[0017] If at least one vehicle window can be adjusted both in terms of its reflection behavior and its absorption behavior, this can effectively prevent undesired heating of the passenger compartment, particularly in strong sunlight. And at low ambient temperatures, absorbing thermal radiation, particularly in the infrared range visible and invisible to the human eye, can prevent undesired cooling of the passenger compartment. Both are advantageous.

[0018] The specific wavelengths when classifying infrared radiation into different ranges and their possible designations can be found in DIN 5031 in the version valid at the time of registration.

[0019] Preferably, the first electrochromic layer and the second electrochromic layer are arranged between respective pane elements of the vehicle window and can be switched independently of one another by applying the respective electrical voltage. For example, the first, reflective electrochromic layer can switch or be switched between high transparency and a highly reflective behavior, in particular a silvery, shiny reflective behavior. The second electrochromic layer can preferably be switched from a transparent state to the absorbent state, in which the electrochromic layer can, in particular, have a substantially black appearance.

[0020] The advantage here is that the vehicle window only needs to be exposed to an electric current during the tinting process or when creating transparency, with the current strength being in the order of 2 amperes. Once the electrical voltage is no longer applied, the vehicle window retains the previously set color. This is advantageous.

[0021] Preferably, the at least one vehicle window has a thermochromic layer, wherein the behavior of the thermochromic layer with regard to reflection and absorption of solar radiation can be changed depending on the temperature of the thermochromic layer. Thus, the behavior of the thermochromic layer does not need to be changed by control via the control device. Rather, the provision of the thermochromic layer in the at least one vehicle window takes advantage of the fact that thermochromic materials change their light absorption and their reflective properties depending on the temperature. When exposed to sunlight, the thermochromic layer heats up and reflects thermal radiation. When the solar radiation decreases, the vehicle window having the thermochromic layer cools down again. As a result, the thermochromic layer allows short-wave thermal radiation to pass through again.

[0022] To impart thermochromic properties to at least one vehicle window, a vanadium oxide layer can be integrated into the vehicle window as the thermochromic layer. Such a thermochromic layer transmits the portion of infrared radiation invisible to the human eye at low temperatures. At high temperatures, however, this portion of infrared radiation invisible to the human eye is reflected.

[0023] Advantageously, the thermochromic effect of the thermochromic layer does not require the application of an electrical voltage, but is controlled by temperature differences. This is particularly advantageous, especially in a moving vehicle, when vehicle occupants want or should be able to see through the vehicle window coated with the thermochromic layer, while thermal radiation is reflected or absorbed depending on the weather conditions. Accordingly, the provision of the thermochromic layer in at least one vehicle window can effectively and inexpensively support the attainment of undesirable extreme temperatures in the passenger compartment.

[0024] Preferably, the at least one vehicle window is formed as laminated glass, in which the thermochromic layer and the at least one electrochromic layer are arranged between a first pane element of the vehicle window near the passenger compartment and a second pane element of the vehicle window remote from the passenger compartment. Thus, the at least one electrochromic layer and the thermochromic layer are well protected.

[0025] Furthermore, the layers, particularly those formed as films, in the form of the thermochromic layer and the at least one electrochromic layer, can be used very effectively for laminating the two pane elements adjacent to these layers. By laminating the pane elements together in the form of glass panes of the vehicle windscreen, a good cohesion of the pane elements can be achieved. And the films contain the electrochromic and thermochromic substances.

[0026] By combining thermochromic and electrochromic properties in at least one vehicle window, the advantages of these two technologies can be combined in a particularly effective way. This is based on the realization that conventional window glass is transparent to visible light and also to short-wave infrared radiation, such as that emitted by the sun. However, conventional window glass is barely permeable to long-wave infrared radiation. Therefore, it is advantageous if the vehicle window is constructed as laminated glass.

[0027] Preferably, the thermochromic layer is arranged closer to the second pane element than the at least one electrochromic layer. As a result, the thermochromic layer is relatively directly exposed to the weather conditions prevailing in the environment of the motor vehicle. This is useful in order to utilize the change in the behavior of the thermochromic layer caused by the respective temperature of the thermochromic layer particularly effectively and easily.

[0028] The functional layer preferably comprises a plurality of microcapsules containing differently charged particles. The microcapsules contain a dispersant in which the particles are movable, and the arrangement of the particles within each microcapsule can be changed by applying an electrical voltage. The particles have different properties with respect to the reflection and absorption of solar radiation. Thus, the particles are preferably thermally effective and can be used to provide different colors for the functional layer.

[0029] The microcapsules, which may, for example, have an average diameter of approximately 40 µm, preferably contain the, for example, positively charged reflective particles and the, for example, negatively charged absorbing particles, wherein a viscous polymer may be used as the dispersant.

[0030] Such a functional layer, which can in particular be designed as a film, uses a technology that can also be used for so-called electronic paper or e-paper.

[0031] Here, no ink is used as the printing ink, but rather microcapsules, which provide a type of electronic ink ("e-ink"). The functional layer, designed as a film, can therefore also be referred to as an e-ink film. With the e-ink film, the appearance and effects that are created by the ink on classic paper printed with ink can be achieved by controlling the microcapsules. In contrast to electronic paper or e-paper, as used in an electrophoretic display device, not just white particles and black particles are used here, but preferably the thermally active particles in the microcapsules.

[0032] In particular, it can be provided that the respective microcapsules contain first particles designed to reflect solar radiation and second particles designed to absorb solar radiation. In this case, the first particles can be silver-colored, and the second particles can preferably be matte black. The silver-colored or reflective first particles and the matte black, absorbing second particles can thus be used to provide a different color scheme for the outer paneling part having the functional layer.

[0033] For example, the appearance of the outer paneling of the vehicle's outer skin that incorporates the functional layer can be changed from a silver, reflective color to a black, absorbent color. This is achieved by briefly applying an electrical voltage. Afterward, the set color remains stable. However, by changing the electrical voltage, the color can be changed again. This makes it very easy to adjust the desired behavior of the outer paneling of the vehicle that incorporates the functional layer.

[0034] Pigments are preferably present in the dispersion medium, whereby the pigments can provide a color impression of the outer paneling part comprising the functional layer to an observer looking at the outer skin of the motor vehicle. In particular, it can be achieved that, in a neutral state of the functional layer, the outer paneling part has the color desired by the user of the motor vehicle. Accordingly, even in the case of a motor vehicle which has a body color desired by the user of the motor vehicle, it is not necessary to forego adjusting the desired appearance of the motor vehicle in the body color. Nevertheless, by applying voltage to the functional layer, the thermally advantageous behavior of the corresponding partial area of ​​the outer skin of the motor vehicle can be adjusted.

[0035] Additionally or alternatively, at least one color filter can be arranged on an outer side of the functional layer, whereby the at least one color filter can provide the color impression of the outer paneling part comprising the functional layer to the observer looking at the outer skin of the motor vehicle. This also allows the user to use the motor vehicle not only in the desired color, but also to benefit from the reflective and absorbent properties of the functional layer.

[0036] The control device is preferably configured to change the behavior of the functional layer and the at least one electrochromic layer based on the at least one state variable and depending on a driving state of the motor vehicle. This allows for the fact that, when the motor vehicle is moving, different boundary conditions must be observed with regard to the reflective and / or absorbent properties of the at least one vehicle window, which has the at least one electrochromic layer, than when the motor vehicle is stationary.

[0037] In particular, the control device can be designed to adjust, when the motor vehicle is stationary, a reflection behavior or an absorption behavior of the at least one electrochromic layer that corresponds to the reflection behavior or the absorption behavior of the functional layer. Thus, if the functional layer reflects solar radiation, it can be ensured that the at least one electrochromic layer also has a reflective effect. Conversely, if the functional layer exhibits the absorption behavior, the absorption behavior of the at least one electrochromic layer can be adjusted. Thus, a particularly extensive support of the effect achievable by means of the functional layer can be achieved by appropriately controlling the at least one electrochromic layer. This is advantageous.

[0038] Preferably, the control device is configured to evaluate values ​​of the at least one state variable detected over a predetermined minimum period of time and, depending on the values ​​detected during the minimum period of time, to effect a change in the behavior of the functional layer and the at least one electrochromic layer. This ensures, in particular, that the control device does not make changes to the behavior of the functional layer and the electrochromic layer, for example, when the motor vehicle is driving through a tunnel or due to a shadow briefly cast on the motor vehicle. This is advantageous.

[0039] For example, it may be provided that the values ​​of the state variables are recorded over a minimum period of approximately 5 minutes in order to make an estimate of an average light state and / or solar energy state present during the minimum period.

[0040] Sensors of the motor vehicle, such as at least one temperature sensor and / or at least one light sensor and / or at least one sun position sensor or the like, can be used to detect the state variables. Furthermore, the time of day and / or the season and / or the sun position can be evaluated as state variables, particularly taking into account the current geographical position of the motor vehicle, in order to determine the influence of the at least one state variable on the temperature in the passenger compartment of the motor vehicle.

[0041] In particular, in order to determine whether a shadow temporarily falls on the motor vehicle due to at least one object in the surroundings of the motor vehicle, at least one optical detection device of the motor vehicle, for example in the form of a camera, which can be designed for object recognition, can be used.

[0042] By providing the minimum time period, it is particularly safe to avoid short-term and / or unnecessary changes in the behavior of the functional layer and the at least one electrochromic layer.

[0043] In the method according to the invention for operating a motor vehicle, a first partial region of an outer skin of the motor vehicle is provided by a plurality of outer paneling parts of the motor vehicle. At least one of the outer paneling parts has a functional layer, wherein a behavior of the functional layer with regard to reflection and absorption of solar radiation is changed by applying an electrical voltage. The motor vehicle has a control device which causes the behavior of the functional layer to change as a function of at least one state variable. In this case, the at least one state variable has an influence on a temperature in a passenger compartment of the motor vehicle. A second partial region of the outer skin is provided by a plurality of vehicle windows of the motor vehicle.At least one of the vehicle windows has at least one electrochromic layer, wherein the behavior of the at least one electrochromic layer with respect to reflection and / or absorption of solar radiation is changed by applying an electrical voltage. The control device causes the behavior of the at least one electrochromic layer to change depending on the at least one state variable.

[0044] Such a procedure can be used to particularly effectively prevent undesirable extreme temperatures from being reached in the passenger compartment.

[0045] The advantages and preferred embodiments described for the motor vehicle according to the invention apply analogously to the method according to the invention and vice versa.

[0046] The invention therefore also includes further developments of the method according to the invention that have features already described in connection with the further developments of the motor vehicle according to the invention. For this reason, the corresponding further developments of the method according to the invention are not described again here.

[0047] The invention also includes the control device for the motor vehicle. The control device can have a data processing apparatus or a processor device that is configured to carry out an embodiment of the method according to the invention. For this purpose, the processor device can have at least one microprocessor and / or at least one microcontroller and / or at least one FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) and / or at least one DSP (Digital Signal Processor). Furthermore, the processor device can have program code that is configured to carry out the embodiment of the method according to the invention when executed by the processor device. The program code can be stored in a data memory of the processor device. The processor device can be based, for example, on at least one circuit board and / or on at least one SoC (System on Chip).

[0048] The motor vehicle according to the invention is preferably designed as a motor vehicle, in particular as a passenger car or truck, or as a passenger bus.

[0049] The invention also encompasses combinations of the features of the described embodiments. The invention therefore also encompasses implementations that each have a combination of the features of several of the described embodiments, unless the embodiments are described as mutually exclusive.

[0050] Exemplary embodiments of the invention are described below. Shown are: Fig. 1 schematically shows a motor vehicle in which a reflection behavior and an absorption behavior of both outer paneling parts of an outer skin of the motor vehicle and a reflection behavior and an absorption behavior of vehicle windows of the motor vehicle can be changed by applying a respective electrical voltage by means of a control device; Fig. 2 the motor vehicle according to Fig. 1 at high ambient temperatures, with exterior panelling parts of the motor vehicle being reflectively coloured; Fig. 3 the motor vehicle according to Fig. 2, wherein the vehicle windows of the motor vehicle are additionally tinted reflective; Fig. 4 the motor vehicle according to Fig. 1 at low ambient temperatures, wherein the control device is used to adjust the solar radiation-absorbing behavior of the outer paneling parts of the motor vehicle; Fig. 5 the motor vehicle according to Fig. 4, wherein the vehicle windows of the motor vehicle are additionally connected to absorb incident solar radiation; Fig. 6 schematically shows the structure of a functional layer with which those outer paneling parts of the motor vehicle are provided, the behaviour of which can be adjusted with regard to the reflection and absorption of solar radiation; and Fig. 7 schematically shows the structure of one of the vehicle windows of the motor vehicle which can be changed with regard to the reflection behavior and the absorption behavior, wherein the vehicle window has a thermochromic layer in addition to two electrochromic layers.

[0051] The exemplary embodiments explained below are preferred embodiments of the invention. In the exemplary embodiments, the described components of the embodiments each represent individual features of the invention that can be considered independently of one another, each of which also develops the invention independently of one another. Therefore, the disclosure is intended to encompass combinations of the features of the embodiments other than those shown. Furthermore, the described embodiments can also be supplemented by further features of the invention already described.

[0052] In the figures, the same reference symbols denote elements with the same function.

[0053] In Fig. 1 shows a motor vehicle 10 having an outer skin. A first portion of the outer skin is formed or provided by outer paneling parts 12. Preferably, those outer paneling parts 12 which are exposed to a certain degree of solar radiation during operation of the motor vehicle 10 have a functional layer 14, the possible structure of which is shown schematically in Fig. 6 is shown.

[0054] For example, the exterior paneling parts 12 in the form of a front panel and / or a front flap and / or a roof and / or a tailgate and / or doors and / or fenders of the motor vehicle 10 may have the functional layer 14. This is because such exterior paneling parts 12 are exposed to solar radiation to a greater extent than less exposed areas of the outer skin of the motor vehicle 10.

[0055] The functional layer 14 is embodied as a film that can be switched in the manner of electronic paper. For example, this e-paper film, with which the switchable outer paneling parts 12 are covered, can enable switching between different colors, for example, between silver (see Fig. 2), Black (compare Fig. 4) and the actual car color (compare Fig. 1).

[0056] In the present case, a second partial area of ​​the outer skin of the motor vehicle 10 is provided by vehicle windows 16 of the motor vehicle 10. By way of example, Fig. 1 Vehicle windows 16 in the form of a windscreen and in the form of side windows of the motor vehicle 10 are provided with corresponding reference numerals.

[0057] A preferred construction of the respective vehicle window 16 is shown in Fig. 7. Accordingly, the at least one vehicle window 16 of the motor vehicle 10 is preferably designed as a switchable, electrochromic and simultaneously thermochromic glazing. Fig. 7 shows an exemplary structure of such a vehicle window 16, preferably designed as laminated glass.

[0058] Accordingly, the vehicle window 16 has a first electrochromic layer 18, whose behavior with respect to the reflection of solar radiation can be changed by applying an electrical voltage. Furthermore, the vehicle window 16 has a second electrochromic layer 20, whose behavior with respect to the absorption of solar radiation can be changed by applying an electrical voltage.

[0059] In addition, the Fig. 7, the vehicle window 16 has a thermochromic layer 22, wherein a behavior of the thermochromic layer 22 with regard to a reflection and an absorption of solar radiation can be changed depending on a temperature of the thermochromic layer 22.

[0060] In the Fig. In the structure of the vehicle window 16 as laminated glass shown in Figure 7, the electrochromic layers 18, 20 and the thermochromic layer 22 are arranged between a first window element 24 near a passenger compartment of the motor vehicle 10 and a second window element 26 remote from the passenger compartment. Fig. 7 the thermochromic layer 22 is preferably closer to an outer side 28 of the vehicle window 16 facing the surroundings of the motor vehicle 10 than the electrochromic layers 18, 20.

[0061] By providing the functional layer 14 on the outer paneling parts 12 of the motor vehicle 10 and by designing the vehicle windows 16 as switchable electrochromic glasses and preferably also thermochromic glasses, a smart, switchable and economical vehicle air conditioning system can be realized.

[0062] By controlling the functional layer 14 on the one hand and the vehicle windows 16 on the other hand by means of a control device 30 of the motor vehicle 10, which is shown highly schematically in the figures, it is possible, for example, to adjust or control the reflection of infrared radiation at the vehicle windows 16 and the absorption of infrared radiation by the outer paneling parts 12 of the body of the motor vehicle 10. The control of the electrochromic layers 18, 20 of the vehicle window 16 (cf. Fig. 7) and the outer paneling parts 12 of the motor vehicle 10 having the functional layer 14 by the control device 30 is shown in Fig. 1 and in the other figures only schematically indicated.

[0063] Preferably, state variables are supplied to the control device 30, which can be evaluated by the control device 30 to determine how the electrochromic layers 18, 20 and the functional layer 14 should be controlled. Five different vehicle states of the motor vehicle 10 will be explained below by way of example, as well as the respective associated properties of the outer paneling parts 12 having the functional layer 14 and the vehicle windows 16, which can be adjusted by means of the control device 30.

[0064] To determine the current vehicle condition, the temperature to be expected in the passenger compartment of the motor vehicle 10 can be determined using navigation data and measured values, such as the outside temperature and the temperature in the passenger compartment of the motor vehicle 10, and the solar radiation. The intensity of the solar radiation can be determined using at least one sensor (not shown) of the motor vehicle 10. The same applies to the outside temperature or ambient temperature and to the temperature in the passenger compartment of the motor vehicle 10.

[0065] Preferably, the control device 30 determines whether a certain amount of energy can be saved by changing the reflection behavior and the absorption behavior of the outer paneling parts 12 and the vehicle windows 16 toward surface reflection or surface absorption. For this purpose, it is preferably taken into account what energy consumption can be expected from operating an air conditioning system (not shown) and / or a heating system (not shown) of the motor vehicle 10 if a certain temperature in the passenger compartment of the motor vehicle 10 is to be achieved without switching the electrochromic vehicle windows 16 and the functional layer 14, i.e., solely by operating the air conditioning system and / or the heating system.

[0066] In relation to Fig. 1, a first vehicle state of the motor vehicle 10 will be explained. In this first vehicle state, the outside temperature and the solar radiation can be within a range in which the temperature in the passenger compartment of the motor vehicle 10 is comfortable for a user or occupant of the motor vehicle 10. A corresponding comfort zone can be specified, in particular, by the user of the motor vehicle 10. Furthermore, the case may arise that the motor vehicle 10 is parked in a building (not shown), such as a garage, a parking garage, or the like. In this case, the control device 30 does not need to control the functional layer 14 of the exterior paneling parts 12 or the electrochromic layers 18, 20 of the vehicle windows 16.

[0067] The vehicle windows 16 are completely transparent in this standby mode, without any particular effect on the passenger compartment that goes beyond the behavior of the respective vehicle window 16. The portion of the outer skin of the motor vehicle 10, which is connected by the outer paneling parts 12 with the functional layer 14 (see Fig. 6) preferably shows the vehicle color of the motor vehicle 10 desired by the customer in the first vehicle state of the motor vehicle 10.

[0068] In the Fig. In the second vehicle state shown in Figure 2, the temperatures are well above the comfort range, and the amount of energy that can be saved in the operation of the air conditioning system is greater than the amount of energy that must be applied to switch the functional layer 14 and the electrochromic layers 18, 20 of the vehicle windows 16. Accordingly, a respective switching process is carried out by the control device 30.

[0069] In Fig. 2, the vehicle state is such that the motor vehicle 10 is moving. Therefore, only the functional layers 14 of the outer paneling parts 12 are rendered solar radiation-reflecting, for example, by providing a silver color to the corresponding outer paneling parts 12. The outer paneling parts 12 thus reflect the incident solar radiation and, in particular, thermal radiation. However, the thermochromic vehicle windows 16 are completely transparent. Accordingly, the vehicle windows 16 only reflect thermal radiation in the invisible infrared range.

[0070] In the Fig. In the third vehicle state of the motor vehicle 10 shown in Figure 3, the temperatures are as they are with reference to Fig. 2. Accordingly, the temperature in the passenger compartment is well above the comfort level, or such a temperature will be reached in the passenger compartment if the measures described below are not taken.

[0071] In addition, the amount of energy that can be saved during operation of the air conditioning system of the motor vehicle 10 is greater than the amount of energy that must be provided for switching the vehicle windows 16 and the functional layer 14. However, the motor vehicle 10 is in the Fig. 3 shown vehicle condition parked.

[0072] Even in this third vehicle state, the outer paneling parts 12 are silver-plated or converted to a preferably silver-reflective state. The functional layer 14 of the outer paneling parts 12 thus reflects the incident solar radiation or thermal radiation. However, when the motor vehicle 10 is parked, the vehicle windows 16 are additionally silver-plated, so that the vehicle windows 16 are no longer transparent. Consequently, the vehicle windows 16 also reflect thermal radiation in the visible and invisible infrared range.

[0073] For this purpose, the first electrochromic layer 18 of the vehicle window 16 (compare Fig. 7), whose behavior with regard to the reflection of solar radiation can be changed by applying the electrical voltage, is controlled by the control device 30.

[0074] In the Fig. In the fourth vehicle state of the motor vehicle 10 shown in Figure 4, the temperature, particularly in the surroundings of the motor vehicle 10, is well below the comfortable temperature range. Furthermore, the amount of energy that can be saved if the air conditioning system and / or the heating system are not used to heat the passenger compartment of the motor vehicle 10 exceeds the amount of energy that must be applied to switch the functional layer 14 of the switchable outer paneling parts 12. Therefore, the switching process is carried out by the control device 30.

[0075] In Fig. 4, it should be assumed that the motor vehicle 10 is moving. According to Fig. 4, the portion of the outer skin of the motor vehicle 10 formed by the outer paneling parts 12 with the functional layer 14 is completely coated in matte black. As a result, the outer paneling parts 12 absorb the incident solar radiation or thermal radiation, particularly thermal radiation in the form of infrared radiation invisible to the human eye.

[0076] However, the vehicle windows 16 are in the Fig. 4 shown vehicle state completely transparent. Accordingly, the vehicle windows 16 in the Fig. 4, short-wave thermal radiation can pass through them and they reflect long-wave thermal radiation back into the passenger compartment. Accordingly, the long-wave thermal radiation is at least largely prevented from escaping from the passenger compartment of the motor vehicle 10 into the surroundings of the motor vehicle 10.

[0077] The Fig. The fifth vehicle state of the motor vehicle 10 shown in Figure 5 corresponds very largely to that described with reference to Fig. 4 explained vehicle condition of the motor vehicle 10. Accordingly, the temperatures here are also well below the comfortable range, and energy can be saved if the air conditioning and / or heating system is not used alone to heat the passenger compartment. In addition, the switching of the functional layer 14 and the second electrochromic layer 20 of the vehicle window 16 (see Fig. 7) the amount of energy required is less than the amount of energy that can be saved. However, Fig. 5 as with reference to Fig. 3 explains that the motor vehicle 10 is stationary or parked, i.e. not moving.

[0078] According to Fig. 5, in this fifth vehicle state, the outer skin in the form of the outer paneling parts 12 is also switched completely matte black. As a result, the outer paneling parts 12, which have the functional layer 14, absorb the incident solar radiation or heat radiation. In the parked state of the motor vehicle 10, however, the vehicle windows 16 are additionally switched completely black. The vehicle windows 16 are then no longer transparent. For this purpose, the control device 30 controls the second electrochromic layer 20 of the respective vehicle window 16, wherein the behavior of the second electrochromic layer 20 with regard to the absorption of solar radiation can be changed by applying the electrical radiation. As a result, the vehicle windows 16, which have the Fig. 7 shown structure, thermal radiation in the visible and invisible infrared range.

[0079] An advantage of the vehicle states explained by way of example is that the motor vehicle 10 can adapt to the respective weather conditions by operating the control device 30. Furthermore, the occurrence of extremely high or extremely low temperatures in the passenger compartment of the motor vehicle 10 is prevented. This saves energy for air conditioning the passenger compartment by means of the (particularly electric) heater or heating device and / or by means of the air conditioning system of the motor vehicle 10. If the motor vehicle 10 is designed as an electrically powered vehicle, this leads to a significant increase in range.

[0080] This is based on the realization that electrical energy consumption is particularly high after the air conditioning system is started, when the air conditioning system has to provide a very high air conditioning output, for example, to quickly cool the overheated passenger compartment of the motor vehicle 10. The additional electrical energy consumption caused by the corresponding operation of the air conditioning system can increase to over 30% of the total electrical energy required to operate the motor vehicle 10. Every degree Celsius that brings the temperature of the passenger compartment closer to the comfortable temperature of the occupants of the motor vehicle 10 therefore represents an enormous savings potential.

[0081] Furthermore, it is advantageous that the motor vehicle 10 is very easily recognizable, for example in summer in a parking lot without shade, due to the preferably silver-reflective outer skin. This is because, according to the explanations to Fig. 3 both the outer paneling parts 12 and the vehicle windows 16 can be brought into the solar radiation-reflecting state. The user of the motor vehicle 10 can thus find his motor vehicle 10 particularly easily. The same applies if, as in Fig. As shown in Figure 5, both the outer paneling parts 12 and the vehicle windows 16 are in a solar radiation-absorbing state, making the entire motor vehicle 10 easily recognizable by its preferably matte-black outer skin. This advantage is in addition to the energy savings in the operation of the air conditioning system of the motor vehicle 10 after starting the motor vehicle 10.

[0082] The electrochromic layers 18, 20 of the vehicle window 16, whose behavior with regard to reflection or absorption can be changed by the control device 30, can be Fig. 7 be designed as respective foils.

[0083] The first electrochromic layer 18 can comprise reflective particles, for example in the form of metal particles. For example, the first electrochromic layer 18 can comprise silver particles or silver perchlorate particles contained in an aqueous gel. A conductive polymer film with soot particles can be used for the absorbing, opaque layer, i.e., the second electrochromic layer 20. In this embodiment of the second electrochromic layer 20, the orientation of the soot particles can be changed by applying an electrical voltage. The thermochromic layer 22 of the vehicle window 16 can be formed as a vanadium oxide layer.

[0084] The structure and functioning of the functional layer 14 should be explained with reference to Fig. 6. Accordingly, the functional layer 14, which is presently formed as a film, comprises a plurality of microcapsules 32 arranged between a first, transparent electrode layer 34 and a second electrode layer 36. A shell of the microcapsules 32 is transparent, and the microcapsules 32 contain a dispersant 38, for example in the form of a viscous polymer or an oil or the like.

[0085] The second electrode layer 36 can be provided in the form of a plurality of individual electrodes and thus be configured in the manner of a pixel layer. The electrode layers 34, 36 are arranged between a cover layer 40 and a base layer 42 of the functional layer 14.

[0086] The dispersant 38 contains differently charged particles, for example positively charged, in particular silver-colored first particles 44, of which Fig. 6, only some are provided with a reference numeral. Furthermore, the dispersion medium 38 contains second, for example negatively charged particles 46, which can be matte black in color.

[0087] In the Fig. 6 left shown state of the microcapsule 32, the application of the electrical voltage ensures that the first particles 44 have migrated towards the cover layer 40 and the second particles 46 towards the base layer 42. This results in a silver appearance of the microcapsule 32. The corresponding reflection of a part of the solar radiation on the first particles 44 is in Fig. 6 is illustrated by a first arrow 48.

[0088] In the Fig. 6, the right illustration shows the state in which the second particles 46 contained in the microcapsule 32 in the dispersant 38 are closer to the cover layer 40 than to the base layer 42 or bottom layer of the functional layer 14. Accordingly, the microcapsules 32 have a black appearance. The associated absorption and reflection of a respective part of the solar radiation is in Fig. 6 is illustrated by a second arrow 50.

[0089] In the Fig. 6 middle illustration, the microcapsules 32 are in a neutral state, so that the outer paneling parts 12 of the motor vehicle 10 appear in the body color of the motor vehicle 10. For this purpose, pigments 52 can be present in the dispersant 38, which, for reasons of clarity, are only used for this neutral state of the Fig. 6 middle microcapsule 32 are shown at all. However, the other Fig. 6, the microcapsules 32 comprise the pigments 52 in the dispersant 38 in addition to the first particles 44 and the second particles 46.

[0090] Additionally or alternatively, on an outer side of the functional layer 14, which according to Fig. 6 can be provided by an outer side of the cover layer 40, a color filter 54 can be arranged in order to give the outer paneling part 12 of the motor vehicle 10 the color impression of the vehicle color desired by the user of the motor vehicle 10.

[0091] It may be provided that the user of the motor vehicle 10 can manually switch the control device 30 in order to adjust the behavior of the functional layer 14 and the vehicle windows 16 with regard to the reflection and absorption of solar radiation as desired. A corresponding switching command can be transmitted to the control device 30.

[0092] Additionally or alternatively, it is possible for the control device 30 to regulate the change in the behavior of the functional layer 14 and the electrochromic layers 18, 20 based on an evaluation of signals which are detected by sensors (not shown) of the motor vehicle 10.

[0093] For example, these sensors can measure brightness and / or temperature, in particular the temperature in the surroundings of the motor vehicle 10, and / or the position of the sun. In this case, it is preferably provided that corresponding values ​​of such state variables are recorded over a predetermined minimum period before the control device 30 changes the behavior of the functional layer 14 and the electrochromic layers 18, 20. The automatic switching of the functional layer 14 and the electrochromic layers 18, 20 is thus preferably carried out intelligently.

[0094] Overall, the examples show how a smart, switchable and economical vehicle air conditioning system can be provided for the motor vehicle 10. QUOTES CONTAINED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents submitted by the applicant was generated automatically and is included solely for the convenience of the reader. This list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] DE 10 2020 113 398 A1

[0003] CN 112937263 A

[0006]

Claims

[1] Motor vehicle (10) with an outer skin, wherein a first partial region of the outer skin is provided by a plurality of outer paneling parts (12) of the motor vehicle (10), wherein at least one of the outer paneling parts (12) has a functional layer (14), wherein a behavior of the functional layer (14) with regard to reflection and absorption of solar radiation can be changed by applying an electrical voltage, wherein the motor vehicle (10) has a control device (30) which is designed to effect the changing of the behavior of the functional layer (14) as a function of at least one state variable which has an influence on a temperature in a passenger compartment of the motor vehicle (10), and wherein a second partial region of the outer skin is provided by a plurality of vehicle windows (16) of the motor vehicle (10), characterized byin that at least one of the vehicle windows (16) has at least one electrochromic layer (18, 20), wherein a behavior of the at least one electrochromic layer (18, 20) with regard to a reflection and / or an absorption of solar radiation can be changed by applying an electrical voltage, and wherein the control device (30) is designed to effect the change in the behavior of the at least one electrochromic layer (18, 20) as a function of the at least one state variable. [2] Motor vehicle (10) according to claim 1, characterized by in that the at least one vehicle window (16) has a first electrochromic layer (18) whose behavior with regard to the reflection of solar radiation can be changed by applying the electrical voltage, and a second electrochromic layer (20) whose behavior with regard to the absorption of solar radiation can be changed by applying the electrical voltage. [3] Motor vehicle (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by in that the at least one vehicle window has a thermochromic layer (22), wherein a behavior of the thermochromic layer (22) with regard to a reflection and an absorption of solar radiation can be changed depending on a temperature of the thermochromic layer (22). [4] Motor vehicle (10) according to claim 3, characterized by in that the at least one vehicle window (16) is designed as laminated glass, in which the thermochromic layer (22) and the at least one electrochromic layer (18, 20) are arranged between a first window element (24) of the vehicle window (16) close to the passenger compartment and a second window element (26) of the vehicle window (16) remote from the passenger compartment, wherein the thermochromic layer (22) is arranged closer to the second window element (26) than the at least one electrochromic layer (18, 20). [5] Motor vehicle (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by in that the functional layer (14), in particular designed as a film, has a plurality of microcapsules (32) in which differently charged particles (44, 46) are contained, wherein the microcapsules (32) contain a dispersing agent (38) in which the particles (44, 46) are movable, wherein an arrangement of the particles (44, 46) within the respective microcapsule (32) can be changed by applying the electrical voltage, and wherein the particles (44, 46) have different properties from one another with regard to reflection and absorption of solar radiation. [6] Motor vehicle (10) according to claim 5, characterized by that the respective microcapsules (32) contain first particles (44) designed to reflect solar radiation, in particular silver-colored, and second particles (46) designed to absorb solar radiation, in particular matt black. [7] Motor vehicle (10) according to claim 5 or 6, characterized by that pigments (52) are present in the dispersion medium (38) and / or at least one color filter (54) is arranged on an outer side of the functional layer (14), wherein the pigments (52) and / or the at least one color filter (54) can provide a color impression of the outer paneling part (12) having the functional layer (14) for an observer looking at the outer skin of the motor vehicle (10). [8] Motor vehicle (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized byin that the control device (30) is designed to effect the change in the behavior of the functional layer (14) and of the at least one electrochromic layer (18, 20) based on the at least one state variable and as a function of a driving state of the motor vehicle (10), in particular to set a reflection behavior or an absorption behavior of the at least one electrochromic layer (18, 20) when the motor vehicle (10) is stationary, which corresponds to the reflection behavior or to the absorption behavior of the functional layer (14). [9] Motor vehicle (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized byin that the control device (30) is designed to evaluate values of the at least one state variable detected over a predetermined minimum period of time and to effect a change in the behavior of the functional layer (14) and of the at least one electrochromic layer (18, 20) depending on the values detected during the minimum period of time. [10] A method for operating a motor vehicle (10), in which a first partial region of an outer skin of the motor vehicle (10) is provided by a plurality of outer paneling parts (12) of the motor vehicle (10), wherein at least one of the outer paneling parts (12) has a functional layer (14), wherein a behavior of the functional layer (14) with regard to reflection and absorption of solar radiation is changed by applying an electrical voltage, wherein the motor vehicle (10) has a control device (30) which effects the changing of the behavior of the functional layer (14) as a function of at least one state variable, wherein the at least one state variable has an influence on a temperature in a passenger compartment of the motor vehicle (10), and wherein a second partial region of the outer skin is provided by a plurality of vehicle windows (16) of the motor vehicle (10), characterized byin that at least one of the vehicle windows (16) has at least one electrochromic layer (18, 20), wherein a behavior of the at least one electrochromic layer (18, 20) with regard to a reflection and / or an absorption of solar radiation is changed by applying an electrical voltage, and wherein the control device (30) causes the behavior of the at least one electrochromic layer (18, 20) to be changed as a function of the at least one state variable.

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