Disc arrangement for a motor vehicle and motor vehicle

Abstract

The invention relates to a window assembly (20) for a motor vehicle (10), comprising a window pane (12) and a functional element (22), wherein the window pane (12) has a transparent pane surface and the functional element (22) has a surface which corresponds to, or at least substantially corresponds to, the size of the pane surface, and wherein the functional element (22) is configured to be movable on one side of the window pane (12) to at least partially cover the pane surface. The functional element (22) has a display (36) arranged on or attached to the surface for the selective display of information.

Description

The invention relates to a disc arrangement for a motor vehicle, a functional element for a disc arrangement and a motor vehicle with a passenger compartment. A vehicle window, such as a side window, is typically a simple pane of glass integrated into the door. Its primary function is to provide a view to the outside, while also protecting the vehicle's interior from external elements like wind, rain, and noise. It can be raised and lowered manually or electrically to improve ventilation and passenger comfort. However, today's side windows are severely limited in their functionality. They offer no additional features or added value beyond their basic protective and ventilation functions. This means that the side window merely functions as a passive component, without actively contributing to improving vehicle functionality or comfort. DE 20 2021 100 573 U1 discloses a side window arrangement for a vehicle with a first and a second adjustable window. The first window can be moved relative to the second window from a congruent to a non-congruent position by means of a drive mechanism, wherein the first window is transparent and the second window has reduced transparency. Furthermore, DE 10 2023 113 855 A1 discloses a two-window system for a vehicle comprising two independently movable / extendable plates from a door recess, of which a first plate is opaque and a second plate is transparent. DE 10 2023 003 112 A1 discloses a window lifting device for lowering and raising a pane arrangement, wherein the pane arrangement has at least one first pane, wherein the pane arrangement has at least one second pane, wherein the second pane has at least one first integrated display device. DE 10 2017 200 189 A1 discloses a system for displaying a distorted passenger interior image on at least one window of a parked motor vehicle, comprising at least one display unit that can be arranged on the window and is at least largely transparent or semi-transparent in a deactivated state, with which the distorted passenger interior image can be displayed in an activated state. The current design of vehicle windows, particularly side windows, has several disadvantages that limit functionality and occupant comfort. Because the side window functions merely as a passive element, its full potential is not realized. The present invention is based on the objective of improving the functionality of vehicle windows. The problem is solved by the subject matter of the independent patent claims. Advantageous further developments of the invention are described by the dependent patent claims, the following description, and the figures. A first aspect of the invention relates to a window assembly for a motor vehicle, comprising a window pane and a functional element, wherein the window pane has a transparent surface and the functional element has a surface that corresponds to, or at least substantially corresponds to, the size of the window pane, and wherein the functional element is configured to be movable on one side of the window pane to at least partially cover the pane surface. The functional element includes a display for the selective or adjustable display of information. A cover with an exit opening for the window pane and the functional element is provided in a window recess, wherein the exit opening has a size that allows selective passage of only the window pane or only the functional element. In other words, the introduction of an additional, separate side window is planned as a multifunctional feature, specifically for the selective or adjustable display of information. This information can be visible inside and / or outside the vehicle. Examples of information that can be displayed include colors, images, logos, text, and videos. Selective display can be implemented, for example, using a pixel matrix. Selective information display allows for targeted switching on and off of the display, as well as changing the content of the display. This can be done pixel-based. The display can be either an active display, such as an OLED (organic light-emitting diode), LCD (liquid crystal display), or similar, or a passive display, such as a projector screen. Both the functional element and the display can be transparent, allowing visibility through a pane. Alternatively, an opaque functional element, such as a metal plate, can be used. The invention offers the advantage of utilizing the previously unused surface area of ​​the disc. It enables customized ambient lighting. Information such as images, logos, text, and videos can be displayed on the disc(s), with or without a projector. The lighting in the functional element can be adjusted depending on mood or time of day to create a pleasant atmosphere in the vehicle. This functional element can be used as a surface or canvas for projections, offering diverse applications from presentations to entertainment. It can be advantageously used to display information or serve as an entertainment medium. The window can be a side window, a rear window, a front window, or even a window of a sliding or panoramic roof. A further development of the invention provides that the functional element includes a data unit configured to provide information for display on the screen. In other words, the functional element not only contains a screen or projection surface, but also a unit for providing or generating information. This unit may include a projector or an active display, for example, with a matrix of LEDs. The data unit offers the advantage of a more compact size through increased integration, for example, compared to a system with a projector and a separate projection surface. A further development of the invention provides that the data unit is configured to process environmental data and provide information about the environment visible through the window pane for display on the screen. In other words, the information is intended to include interactive content about the environment, such as navigation information, or information about points of interest or hazards. This data unit offers the advantage of enabling the implementation of an augmented reality system to display information or serve as an entertainment medium. The data unit or control unit can include a data processing device or a processor circuit configured to perform an embodiment of the method according to the invention. For this purpose, the processor circuit can include 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). In particular, a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), or an NPU (Neural Processing Unit) can be used as the microprocessor. Furthermore, the processor circuit can include program code configured to perform the embodiment of the method according to the invention when executed by the processor circuit. The program code can be stored in a data memory of the processor circuit.The processor setup can be based, for example, on at least one circuit board and / or on at least one SoC (System on Chip). A further development of the invention provides that the display of the functional element is transparent and the disc also has a display for the selective presentation of information. In other words, both elements of the disc arrangement comprise a display. It can be provided that the displays of both screens are controlled in combination, for example, to create depth effects when the two displays are arranged in the same line of sight. The presence of two displays offers the advantage that three-dimensional content can be displayed. Within the scope of the invention, the disc arrangement comprises a functional element. The functional element includes a display for the selective presentation of information. A third aspect of the invention relates to a motor vehicle with a passenger compartment. The motor vehicle includes a partition arrangement as described above for separating the passenger compartment from the vehicle's surroundings. 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 or motorcycle. A further development of the invention provides that the pane assembly is arranged in a window recess of a vehicle door. In other words, the functional element with the pane is arranged within a vehicle door just like a conventional pane. This arrangement offers the advantage of increased compatibility. A further development of the invention provides that on one side of the exit opening inside the window recess, a resting area is provided for the retracted window pane and the retracted functional element, and on another opposite side of the exit opening, a functional area is provided for the window pane and the functional element extended from the exit opening. In other words, the window pane and the functional element are integrated within a window recess with a cover. This arrangement offers the advantage of increased compatibility with doors and / or vehicles. A further development of the invention provides that a movement mechanism for moving the functional element is provided, and that the movement mechanism is configured, in the event that the window pane is arranged in the resting area, to move the functional element located in the resting area translationally towards the passenger compartment, to move the functional element translationally through the outlet opening, and to move the functional element located in the functional area translationally away from the passenger compartment to a contact point with a seal of the window frame. In other words, it is provided that the functional element can function as an outer pane and be moved outwards in a sealing manner. A movement mechanism can be implemented based on a movement mechanism for movable window panes of motor vehicles known from the prior art. The extended functional position can comprise a closed pane.This movable design of the functional element offers the advantage of increased flexibility, as the functional element can also replace the pane as the outer element. For example, the window opening can be closed using only the functional element, without the pane. A further development of the invention provides for an alignment mechanism for moving the window pane and the functional element, and this alignment mechanism is configured to selectively align either the window pane or the functional element for movement through the exit opening. In other words, it is provided that only one of the two elements, i.e., the side pane and the functional element, can exit through the exit opening at any given time. Put another way, both elements cannot pass through the exit opening simultaneously. An exemplary alignment mechanism can be implemented on the basis of a plate on which the functional element can be mounted on rails, for example, so that it can be moved horizontally. It can be provided that the side pane and the functional element are rotatable and / or translationally movable in the resting area.The shared outlet opening offers the advantage of a simpler mechanical design. The invention also includes further developments of the motor vehicle according to the invention, which have features already described in connection with the display system according to the invention. For this reason, the corresponding further developments of the motor vehicle according to the invention are not described again here. The invention also includes combinations of the features of the described embodiments. The invention therefore also includes realizations that each exhibit a combination of the features of several of the described embodiments, provided that the embodiments have not been described as mutually exclusive. The following are exemplary embodiments of the invention. Figure 1 shows a schematic representation of a motor vehicle comprising a disc assembly with a functional element; Figure 2 shows a schematic representation of a disc assembly with a functional element; Figure 3 shows another schematic representation of a disc assembly with a functional element; Figure 4 shows another schematic representation of a disc assembly with a functional element; Figure 5 shows another schematic representation of a disc assembly with a functional element; Figure 6 shows a schematic representation of a functional element with a display. The exemplary embodiments described below are preferred embodiments of the invention. In these exemplary embodiments, the described components each represent individual features of the invention, which can be considered independently of one another and each further develops the invention independently. Therefore, the disclosure is intended to include combinations of features of the embodiments other than those shown. Furthermore, the described embodiments can also be supplemented by further features of the invention already described. In the figures, identical reference symbols denote functionally equivalent elements. Fig. 1 shows a schematic representation of a vehicle 10 or motor vehicle. Vehicle 10 could be, for example, a truck or a passenger car. Vehicle 10 can have multiple windows. The windows or panes define the interior of the vehicle and separate it from the outside. Here, two side windows, 12 and 14, are shown. As an example, a door 16 is shown as the front door of the vehicle 10. The door 16 can have a window recess 18 into which the window pane or disc 12 can be lowered and also raised again. Vehicle 10 comprises a window assembly with a window pane and a functional element. The functional element has a display for the selective presentation of information. The window assembly is shown in Figures 2, 3, 4 to 5. The functional element is shown in Figure 6. Fig. 2 shows a schematic representation of a disk arrangement with a functional element. Figs. 2 a) to f) show different positions of the disk arrangement. The pane assembly 20 comprises a window pane or pane 12 and at least one functional element 22. The functional element 22 is provided on an inner side of the pane 12. In other words, the functional element 22 can face the interior of a vehicle 10 or separate the pane 12 from the interior. The functional element 22 is arranged to be movable, at least partially covering the disc 12. The disc 12 and the functional element 22 can have a curved shape or contour, which is determined by the vehicle's design. In Fig. 2 a), both the pane 12 and the functional element 22 are recessed in a window recess 18 of the door 16. This can be referred to as the rest position or rest area. The window recess 18 may have a cover (not shown here) with an outlet opening for the window pane 12 and the functional element 22. In Fig. 2 b), the pane 12 is extended, while the functional element 22 is recessed in the window recess 18 of the door. The pane 12, and also the functional element 22, can be extended and retracted in directions 24. With a typical side window, directions 24 can be vertical, so that the pane 12, and also the functional element 22, can be moved up and down. Due to the curvature of the pane 12 and the functional element 22, the functional element 22 can only be extended together with the pane 12 or after the pane 12. In Fig. 2 c), the functional element 22 is also extended in direction 24, so that both elements are extended into a functional position or into a functional area. In Fig. 2 d) both the disc 12 and the functional element 22 have been moved back into the window shaft 18 of the door. In Fig. 2 e) the disc 12 and the functional element 22 are together moved out of the window shaft 18 of the door. In Fig. 2 f), the disc 12 and the functional element 22 are together moved out of the window shaft 18 of the door into the functional position. Here, a side window 12 is part of the window assembly 20 for a motor vehicle. Several or all windows of the vehicle 10 can also be part of the window assembly 20. Multiple window assemblies 20 can also be provided in the motor vehicle 10. This also applies to the window assemblies shown in the following figures. Fig. 3 shows another schematic representation of a disc assembly with a functional element. Figs. 3 a) to d) show different positions of the disc assembly. The disc 12 and the functional element 22 have a flat or plate-like shape or contour, which may be determined by the vehicle's design. Otherwise, the structure and functions of the disc assembly shown in Fig. 3 correspond to those of the disc assembly shown in Fig. 2. Reference is made accordingly to Fig. 2. Fig. 4 shows another schematic representation of a disc arrangement with a functional element. Figs. 4 a) to d) show different positions of the disc arrangement. The disc 12 and the functional element 22 have a curved shape or contour, which may be determined by the vehicle design. In Fig. 4 a), both the pane 12 and the functional element 22 are recessed in a window recess 18 of the door. This can be referred to as the rest position or rest area. The pane 12, and also the functional element 22, can be extended and retracted in directions 24. With a typical side window, direction 24 can be vertical, so that the pane 12, and also the functional element 22, can be moved up and down. Figure 4b) shows that when the disk 12 or the functional element 22 is in the rest area, the functional element 22 can be moved translationally in a direction 26 away from the side disk towards the interior. This causes the disk 12 and the functional element 22 to be spaced apart from each other to such an extent that the curved functional element 22 no longer vertically overlaps the curved disk 12 or its projection. In Fig. 4 c), the functional element 22 is extended, while the pane 12 remains in the window recess 18 of the door. Despite the curvature of the two elements, it is possible for only the functional element 22 to be extended in one direction 28. This is made possible by the prior movement of the functional element 22 in direction 26. Figure 4 d) shows how the functional element 22, in an extended functional position or within a functional area, can be moved translationally in a direction 30 away from the interior or passenger compartment. This allows the functional element 22 to be positioned vertically above the disc 12. In this way, the functional element 22 can be moved to rest against a seal of the panel. Accordingly, the functional element 22 can assume a position that seals the interior and replaces the disc 12. Fig. 5 shows another schematic representation of a disc arrangement with a functional element. Figs. 5 a) to d) show different positions of the disc arrangement. The disc 12 and the functional element 22 have a curved shape or contour, which may be determined by the vehicle design. In Fig. 5 a), both the pane 12 and the functional element 22 are recessed in a window recess 18 of the door. This can be referred to as the rest position or rest area. A common exit opening 32 for the pane 12 and the functional element 22 can be provided in the window recess 18. The pane 12 and the functional element 22 can be movably arranged such that either the pane 12 or the functional element 22 can be positioned or oriented for extension through the exit opening 32. For this purpose, an alignment mechanism 34 can be provided which can rotate or pivot the pane 12 and / or the functional element 22 to bring one of the two elements into alignment with the exit opening 32. In Figs. 5 a) and b), the window pane 12 is aligned with the exit opening 32. In Fig. 5 b), the pane 12 is extended, while the functional element 22 is recessed in the window recess 18 of the door. The pane 12, and also the functional element 22, can be extended and retracted in directions 24. With a conventional side window, this can be vertical, so that the pane 12, and also the functional element 22, can be moved up and down. Due to the arrangement and / or the dimensions of the exit opening 32, only the functional element 22 or only the pane 12 can be extended individually. In Fig. 5 c), both the disc 12 and the functional element 22 are recessed in the window shaft 18 of the door. Here, the mechanism 34 has rotated the disc 12 and the functional element 22 to align the functional element 22 with the exit opening 32. In Fig. 5 d) the functional element 22 has now been extended through the exit opening 32 from the window shaft 18, while the pane 12 remains in the window shaft 18. In Fig. 5, the functional element 22 is again arranged on an inner side of the disk 12. Due to the mechanism 34, the functional element 22 can also be arranged on an outer side of the disk 12. Fig. 6 shows a schematic representation of a functional element with a display. The functional element 22 can comprise a disc with a transparent disc body having a transparent surface and end faces surrounding or adjacent to that surface. The functional element 22 includes a transparent or opaque display 36 for the selective display of information. The display 36 can be arranged on or attached to the surface. Accordingly, the display 36 can be applied to the surface or arranged below or behind the surface, for example, within the disc body. The functional element 22 can also be opaque. The Display 36 can, for example, be a transparent, semi-transparent or opaque OLED (Organic Light-Emitting Diode), LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) or LED (Light Emitting Diode) display. The functional element 22 can comprise a light-emitting data unit 38 arranged in the disk body. In this example, four data units 38 are provided. One data unit 38 can be provided on each end face. The data unit 38 can be flush with the end face. The one or more data units 38 can be configured as light elements, projectors, or similar elements that interact with the display 36 to provide information for display on the display 36. The data unit 38, for example in the form of a light element, can introduce light into the functional element 22 to display information. The data unit 38 can also control an active display 36. For this purpose, a control unit 40 can be configured to control one, several, or all of the data units 38 of the functional element 22. The control unit 40 can be connected to the data unit 38 via a signal connection 42. It is also possible for the control unit 40 to directly control the display 36 via the signal connection 42. In this case, the functional element 22 can be configured without data units 38. The information to be displayed on the display 36 can include images, logos, text and / or videos, which can be displayed in the functional element 22. The information can also include interactive content related to the environment, such as navigation information or information about the surroundings, such as points of interest. Overall, the examples show how an information disk can be provided. The new idea involves introducing an additional, separate pane, specifically a separate side pane in a multifunctional design. This innovative side pane significantly expands the functionality and benefits of the conventional side pane. The separate side pane can perform various functions that go far beyond mere protection and ventilation. The separate side pane does not have to be a pane in the conventional sense; it can be made of materials other than glass, or even be entirely glass-free. The current design of side windows in vehicles has several disadvantages that limit functionality and passenger comfort. Since the side window functions merely as a passive element, its potential is not fully realized. The new idea expands the functionality of a disc and offers the potential for innovative and multifunctional applications. The following are some examples of the new concept: - Improved usability: The side window is no longer used solely for protection from external elements and ventilation. Additional functions expand its capabilities. - Existing multifunctionality: Modern technologies and innovations integrated into other areas of the vehicle are now applied to the side window. This allows the side window to be used as a multifunctional component. - Safety and comfort aspects: With additional features such as anti-theft protection, acoustic insulation, or sun protection, the side window offers new possibilities for increasing the safety and comfort of the occupants. - Energy generation: In times when sustainability and energy efficiency are becoming increasingly important, the side window offers the possibility of energy generation, for example, through integrated solar panels.- Enhanced adaptability: The side window can be adapted to different needs or situations, such as darkening for more privacy or protection from sunlight when parking. Here are examples and advantages of the new idea: - Solar energy generation: The separate side window can be equipped with integrated solar panels that supply energy to the vehicle battery or specific door functions. This contributes to the vehicle's sustainability and energy efficiency. - Advertising display: The side window can be used as a display visible from both inside and outside. This allows it to be used as an advertising display or information screen. - Charging cable: Integrated charging cables in the side window offer a convenient solution for charging mobile devices. - Theft protection: Enhanced anti-theft features, including alarm and tracking systems, increase vehicle security. - Privacy: The side window can be tinted to protect the privacy of the occupants. This is particularly beneficial for the front side windows, which were previously not permitted to be tinted in the EU.The system is controlled by the vehicle, so the additional window may be raised when parked, but not while driving. - Lighting: LED (light-emitting diode) lighting in the side window can be adjusted to suit your mood or the time of day, creating a pleasant atmosphere in the vehicle. - Projection Screen: The side window can be used as a projection screen, offering a variety of applications from presentations to entertainment. - Fold-Out Counter: An innovative feature that transforms the side window into a fold-out counter that can be used when needed. - Bulletproof: The side window can be made bulletproof to increase occupant safety. - Sunshade: When parked, the side window can serve as a sunshade to regulate the interior temperature and protect the vehicle from overheating.- Acoustic insulation: The lower pane provides acoustic insulation and can be used as a resonator for bass, improving the sound quality inside the vehicle. - Display: The side window can be used as a display, viewable from inside and / or outside, to show information or serve as an entertainment medium. In addition to these functions, the new concept can also include the following innovative features: - Integrated side windows: Two side windows that can be controlled independently to optimize ventilation and visibility. - Safety features: Sensors that detect obstacles and automatically lock or unlock the door to prevent accidents. - Comfort features: Built-in heating and cooling in the door panel to regulate the temperature inside the vehicle. - Smart Control: An app that allows all door functions to be controlled via smartphone. Other specific features include: - Biometric access control: Fingerprint or facial recognition to unlock the door and increase security. - Ambient lighting: LED light strips that can change color depending on mood or time of day. - Noise cancellation: Integrated technology (for example, speakers or glass as a resonator, etc.) for active noise cancellation to make the interior quieter. - Energy harvesting: Solar panels in the door that provide energy for the vehicle battery or door functions. - Emergency opening: A mechanism that automatically opens the door in the event of an accident to facilitate occupant exit. - Air purification: A built-in filter system that cleans the air in the vehicle and reduces allergens and pollutants. - Touchscreen control: A small touchscreen in the door panel that allows control of all door functions.- Enhanced anti-theft protection: Alarm and tracking systems that activate in case of unauthorized access. - Automatic door closing: Sensors detect when the driver leaves and automatically close and lock the door. - Projection technology: Projectors that display information such as speed, navigation, or warnings on the side window. - Integrated speakers: High-quality speakers in the door for an enhanced audio experience. - Weather detection: Sensors detect the weather and automatically open or close the windows to protect the vehicle's interior. - Personalized settings: Memory functions that save preferred settings for different drivers, such as seat position, mirrors, and temperature. - Enhanced communication: An internal communication channel that allows occupants to speak to each other without raising their voices.- Augmented Reality (AR): AR displays that show information about the surroundings, such as points of interest or hazards. - Charging station: Integrated USB and wireless charging points for mobile devices. - Odor elimination: A system that neutralizes unpleasant odors and ensures fresh air in the vehicle. - Adaptive lighting: Lighting that automatically adjusts to ambient light conditions and provides optimal visibility.

Claims

A window arrangement (20) for a motor vehicle (10), comprising a window pane (12) and a functional element (22), wherein the window pane (12) has a transparent pane surface and the functional element (22) has a surface which corresponds to, or at least substantially corresponds to, the size of the pane surface, and wherein the functional element (22) is arranged to be movable on one side of the window pane (12) to at least partially cover the pane surface, wherein the functional element (22) has a display (36) arranged on or at the surface for the selective display of information, characterized in that a shutter with an exit opening (32) for the window pane (12) and the functional element (22) is provided in a window recess (18), and wherein the exit opening (32) has a size which allows selective passage of only the window pane (12) or only the functional element (22). Disc arrangement (20) according to claim 1, characterized in that the functional element (22) has a data unit (38) which is configured to provide information for display on the display (36). Disc arrangement (20) according to claim 2, characterized in that the data unit (38) is configured to process environmental data and thus to display information on the display (36) that is dependent on the environmental data relating to a vehicle environment visible through the window disc (12). Disc arrangement (20) according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the display (36) of the functional element (22) is transparent and the window disc (12) has a further display (36) for the selective display of information. Motor vehicle (10) with a passenger compartment, characterized by a disc arrangement (20) according to one of claims 1 to 4 for separating the passenger compartment from a vehicle environment. Motor vehicle (10) according to claim 5, characterized in that the window arrangement (20) is arranged in a window shaft (18) of a door (16) of the motor vehicle (10). Motor vehicle (10) according to claim 5 or 6, characterized in that on one side of the outlet opening inside the window shaft (18) a rest area is provided for the retracted window pane (12) and the retracted functional element (22) and on another opposite side of the outlet opening a functional area is provided for the window pane (12) extended from the outlet opening and the functional element (22) extended from the outlet opening. Motor vehicle (10) according to one of claims 5 to 7, characterized in that a movement mechanism for moving the functional element (22) is provided, and the movement mechanism is configured, in the event that the window pane (12) is arranged in the rest area, to move the functional element (22) located in the rest area translationally towards the passenger compartment, to move the functional element (22) translationally through the outlet opening and to move the functional element (22) located in the functional area translationally away from the passenger compartment to a seal of the aperture. Motor vehicle (10) according to one of claims 5 to 8, characterized in that an alignment mechanism (34) is provided for moving the window pane (12) and the functional element (22), and the alignment mechanism (34) is configured to align either the window pane (12) or the functional element (22) for movement through the exit opening (32).

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