Glazing unit with electronic component

DE202024002567U1Active Publication Date: 2025-09-11SAINT GOBAIN SEKURIT FRANCE
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Patent Information

Application Number
DE202024002567
Authority / Receiving Office
DE · DE
Patent Type
Utility models
Current Assignee / Owner
Priority Date
2023-02-28
Filing Date
2024-02-20
Publication Date
2025-09-11
Estimated Expiration
2034-02-28

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Abstract

Glazing unit (10) comprising at least: - a first disc (1) having a first main surface (I) and a second main surface (II), - a second pane (2) having a first main surface (III) and a second main surface (IV), wherein the first pane (1) is connected to the second pane (2) via an intermediate layer (3) to form a composite pane (101), - an electronic component (5), wherein the second disc (2) has a cavity (7) with at least one opening (9) directed towards the intermediate layer (3), wherein the cavity (7) is open to a side surface (13) of the composite pane (101) and the electronic component (5) is arranged in the cavity (7), wherein the cavity (7) has a filling (11) formed from an optically transparent, cured adhesive, and wherein the second main surface (II) of the first pane (1) and the first main surface (III) of the second pane (2) face one another and at least in sections do not run parallel to one another, wherein the second pane (2) has a first region (B1) which in sections has a greater curvature than the curvature of the rest of the second pane (2), and wherein the second pane (2) has a projection (15) in the first region (B1), and when the composite pane (101) is mounted, the cavity (7) is formed by the projection (15).
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Description

[0001] The invention relates to a glazing unit with an electronic component, as well as a vehicle with such a glazing unit and a method for producing such a glazing unit.

[0002] Modern vehicles often include a composite pane used as a roof or windshield. This pane consists of two glass panes bonded together by a thermoplastic interlayer. The individual panes of a composite pane are bent congruently to achieve a uniform curvature. One or more thermoplastic composite films are inserted between the congruently bent panes. These films melt during lamination, creating a thermoplastic interlayer of constant thickness.

[0003] Vehicles with interior lighting systems are known from the state of the art. This lighting not only provides orientation within the vehicle but also creates a pleasant atmosphere for passengers. In illuminable glazing, light from a light source is coupled into a flat light guide in the form of a pane of the glazing, utilizing total internal reflection.

[0004] WO 2014 / 060409 A1 and WO 2015 / 095288 A2 disclose the coupling of light into a glass pane via a side surface. However, the point-like coupling of light makes it difficult to achieve homogeneous illumination of the entire pane. Furthermore, the light source, as an additional component of the glazing, is exposed to external environmental influences.

[0005] DE 20 2021 101 147 U1 describes a composite glazing unit as a roof glazing unit, the inner and outer panes of which are not parallel in some sections, creating a cavity between the panes. This cavity serves as a base for accommodating additional glazing components in the composite glazing unit.

[0006] WO 2004 / 106056 A1 discloses a method for producing composite elements comprising two glass panes and an insert located between them. The insert is not fully bonded to the outer elements. It is, for example, perforated. A transparent, thermoplastic film layer connects the outer elements to the insert. By heating the film layer to a softening temperature, the insert is pressed together with both glass panes, degassing the holes in the insert and filling them with the film material.

[0007] WO 2019 / 105855 A1 relates to a composite pane with an integrated electrical attachment. The composite pane comprises an inner pane and an outer pane, as well as a thermoplastic intermediate layer that connects the two panes. The inner pane has a recess into which the attachment is inserted and located entirely within the composite pane.

[0008] The object of the present invention is to provide an improved glazing unit with an electronic component which allows improved integration of an electronic component.

[0009] This object is achieved by a glazing unit according to claim 1. Preferred embodiments emerge from the subclaims.

[0010] The glazing unit according to the invention comprises at least a first pane with a first main surface and a second main surface, as well as a second pane with a first main surface and a second main surface. The first pane is connected to the second pane via an intermediate layer to form a composite pane. The glazing unit further comprises an electronic component arranged in a cavity of the second pane. The cavity has at least one opening directed towards the intermediate layer and a filling formed from an optically transparent, cured adhesive. Because the cavity is filled with a curable, liquid adhesive, the electronic component can be embedded in the adhesive and securely stored. These are major advantages of the present invention.

[0011] The second main surface of the first pane and the first main surface of the second pane face each other. Furthermore, the composite pane is delimited by four circumferential side surfaces. At least in sections, the second main surface of the first pane and the first main surface of the second pane may not run parallel to each other. In other words, the second main surface of the first pane and the first main surface of the second pane run asymmetrically in sections. Furthermore, the distance between the second main surface of the first pane and the first main surface of the second pane may not be constant in sections. This forms the cavity between the first pane and the second pane, so that electronic components can be securely integrated in the composite pane. In other words, the cavity is an extended space between the panes.

[0012] The second pane has a first region which has a curvature, in particular in some sections, which is greater than the curvature of the rest of the second pane. A greater curvature generally corresponds to a smaller radius of curvature of the pane. In other words, the second main surface of the first pane and the first main surface of the second pane extend asymmetrically in the first region. This allows, for example, corners or side edges of the second pane to be provided with a particularly pronounced curvature. The first region can be arranged in at least one corner of the second pane. The curvature of the second pane in the first region is greater than the curvature of the rest of the glass pane.Furthermore, the first region can be arranged in an edge region of the second pane, wherein the first region extends at least partially along a circumferential pane edge of the second pane or along the entire circumferential pane edge. The term edge region refers to a surface area on a pane surface that is arranged at the edge of the pane. The edge region extends from a pane edge of the second pane to one of the surfaces (III, IV) of the second pane. The edge region has, for example, a width of 1 cm to 50 cm, preferably 20 cm.

[0013] In a further embodiment, the first region extends along two opposite pane edges. For example, two adjacent corners can be provided with a particularly pronounced bend. However, it is also possible, for example, for all four corners of the second pane to be provided with a particularly pronounced bend.

[0014] In a further preferred embodiment, the second pane has the first region in which the distance between the second main surface of the first pane and the first main surface of the second pane is greater than in a second region of the second pane, wherein the transition from the first region to the second region is stepped. In the first region, the second main surface of the first pane and the first main surface of the second pane extend asymmetrically, at least in sections. In the second region, the second main surface of the first pane and the first main surface of the second pane extend symmetrically.

[0015] The second pane has a projection in the first area and forms a cavity when the composite pane is installed. The cavity can be open to a side surface of the composite pane.

[0016] In a further embodiment of the glazing unit according to the invention, the cavity can have any basic geometric shape, such as the shape of a circle, quadrilateral, triangle, square, rectangle, pentagon or another regular or irregular polygon.

[0017] According to the invention, the glazing unit comprises at least one electronic component. The at least one electronic component can be a light source, a radar, a sensor, a lidar sensor, an LED module (LED light), an OLED module, or a strip-shaped LED module (LED strip). Sensors can be, for example, rain sensors, daylight sensors, backlight sensors, ultrasonic sensors, pressure and temperature sensors, antennas, optical cameras, and radar sensors. Furthermore, the aforementioned components can also be used in combination. LED modules as a light source are particularly bright and efficient.

[0018] If a light source is inserted as a component into the cavity, the refractive index of the filling and the refractive index of the second pane are the same. The refractive index of the second pane can be, for example, 1.51 at a wavelength of 550 nm. In this case, the second pane is intended to at least partially transmit coupled-in light. The light source is intended to generate light that can be coupled into the first pane, wherein the light source is arranged in the filling. The cavity comprises the filling formed from an optically transparent, cured adhesive. The light emitted by the light source is transmitted via the filling for coupling into the first pane. Since the refractive index of the optically transparent, cured adhesive is the same as the refractive index of the second pane, the light can be coupled into the pane with little or no loss of light intensity.The light is transmitted almost entirely at the transition from the cavity filling to the first pane and is neither refracted nor reflected. The glazing unit according to the invention surprisingly exhibits improved light coupling from the light source to the first pane without negatively affecting other optical properties of the first pane. The arrangement of the light source in the cavity prevents the need for complex drilling in the second pane.

[0019] In an advantageous embodiment of the glazing unit according to the invention, the refractive index of the optically transparent, cured adhesive and the refractive index of the second pane are identical. Refractive indices are generally specified within the scope of the present invention based on a wavelength of 550 nm. The refractive index is fundamentally independent of the measurement method; it can be determined, for example, using ellipsometry. Ellipsometers are commercially available. The same measurement method is used to determine the refractive index of the filling as for the refractive index of the second pane.

[0020] The optically transparent adhesive is curable, i.e. it can be irreversibly cured. Typically, it is a plastic that is cured into a polymer-crosslinked state. This differs significantly from a thermoplastic, which is also optically transparent but can be reversibly softened by the application of heat. In contrast, the curable adhesive can no longer be made flowable once it has cured. The optically transparent, curable adhesive is therefore not a non-curable thermoplastic. The curable, optically transparent adhesive can be cured by heat, exposure to electromagnetic radiation, preferably UV radiation, and / or chemically. Curing preferably takes place by the application of heat or an increase in temperature and / or UV radiation.

[0021] The transparent adhesive, for example, is based on silicone. Optically transparent adhesives are known, in particular, by the acronym LOCA (liquid optically clear adhesive). These are often used in touch-sensitive displays, for example, to firmly bond them to an LCD or to firmly bond plastic covers to the touch-sensitive displays. After application, the LOCA is often cured using UV radiation.

[0022] The curable, optically transparent adhesive can, for example, contain or consist of polyurethane (PU), polyacrylate, polyacetate resin, casting resin, epoxy resin, Acralyt, or a copolymer, or mixtures thereof. Advantageously, the optically transparent adhesive consists of a casting resin, particularly polyurethane- or silicone-based.

[0023] For the purposes of the invention, transparent is understood to mean an article, in particular an optically transparent adhesive, a light extraction means and / or a transparent body (for example a pane), which has a transmission in the visible spectral range of greater than 20%, preferably greater than 50%, particularly preferably greater than 70%, in particular greater than 85%.

[0024] Basically, all electrically insulating substrates which are thermally and chemically stable and dimensionally stable under the conditions of manufacture and use of the glazing unit according to the invention are suitable as the first pane and second pane.

[0025] The first pane and / or the second pane preferably contain or consist of glass, particularly preferably flat glass, very particularly preferably float glass, such as soda-lime glass, borosilicate glass or quartz glass, or clear plastics, preferably rigid clear plastics, in particular polyethylene, polypropylene, polycarbonate, polymethyl methacrylate, polystyrene, polyamide, polyester, polyvinyl chloride and / or mixtures thereof. The first pane and / or the second pane are preferably transparent, in particular for use of the panes as a front pane (also referred to as a windshield) or rear window of a vehicle or other applications where high light transmission is desired. For the purposes of the invention, a pane is then understood to be transparent if it has a transmission in the visible spectral range of greater than 70%. In particular, at least the first pane and preferably also the second pane are made of clear glass.

[0026] For windows that are not in the driver's relevant field of vision, such as roof windows, the transmission can be much lower, perhaps greater than 5%. For this purpose, the first pane and / or the intermediate layer can be tinted or colored.

[0027] The thickness of the first pane and / or the second pane can vary widely and thus be perfectly adapted to the requirements of the individual case. Standard thicknesses of 1.0 mm to 25 mm are preferably used, preferably 1.4 mm to 2.5 mm for vehicle glass, and preferably 4 mm to 25 mm for furniture, appliances, and buildings. The size of the panes can vary widely and depends on the size of the inventive use. The first pane and second pane have areas of 200 cm, for example, which are common in vehicle construction and architecture. 2 up to 20 m 2Preferably, the panes are planar or slightly or strongly curved in one or more directions of the room.

[0028] The first pane and the second pane are connected to one another by at least one intermediate layer. The intermediate layer is preferably transparent, tinted, or colored. The intermediate layer preferably contains or consists of at least one plastic, preferably polyvinyl butyral (PVB), ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA), and / or polyethylene terephthalate (PET). However, the intermediate layer can also contain, for example, polyurethane (PU), polypropylene (PP), polyacrylate, polyethylene (PE), polycarbonate (PC), polymethyl methacrylate, polyvinyl chloride, polyacetate resin, casting resins, acrylates, fluorinated ethylene-propylene, polyvinyl fluoride, and / or ethylene-tetrafluoroethylene, or copolymers or mixtures thereof. The intermediate layer can be formed by one or more films arranged one above the other, with the thickness of a film preferably being from 0.025 mm to 1 mm, typically 0.38 mm or 0.76 mm.The intermediate layers can preferably be thermoplastic and, after lamination, bond the first pane, the second pane, and any additional intermediate layers together. So-called acoustically dampening intermediate layers, which preferably consist of three layers of PVB, are particularly advantageous, with the middle layer being softer than the two outer layers.

[0029] The intermediate layer can be formed solely from the (polymeric) filling in the region of the cavity. In the remaining regions, the intermediate layer is preferably designed as a thermoplastic layer (in particular formed from a thermoplastic film), which, however, does not extend into the region of the cavity but ends in front of it. Optionally, however, a thermoplastic layer can also be present in the region of the cavity. Thus, it is possible for at least one thermoplastic layer (in particular formed from at least one thermoplastic film) to be arranged over the entire surface between the first pane and the second pane, which layer forms the intermediate layer alone in the regions in which the panes run symmetrically and which rests against the first pane in the region of the cavity, wherein the filling is arranged between the at least one thermoplastic layer and the second pane.

[0030] The intermediate layer can also be a functional intermediate layer, in particular an infrared-reflecting intermediate layer, an infrared-absorbing intermediate layer, a UV-absorbing intermediate layer, an at least partially colored intermediate layer, and / or an at least partially tinted intermediate layer. For example, the thermoplastic intermediate layer can also be a band filter film.

[0031] If the glazing unit according to the invention is intended as a composite pane, for example, to separate the interior space from the external environment in an opening, for example in a vehicle or a building, the first pane can face the interior space or the external environment.

[0032] The first pane and / or the second pane may have further suitable layers known per se, for example anti-reflective coatings, non-stick coatings, anti-scratch coatings, photocatalytic coatings or sun protection coatings or low-E coatings.

[0033] In one embodiment, the second pane can be provided with a low-E coating on its second main surface. Low-E coatings are emissivity-reducing coatings and reflect IR radiation, particularly thermal radiation, emanating from a heated glass pane. The penetration of thermal radiation into the vehicle interior is reduced, which also results in less heating of the interior. In winter, at low outside temperatures, the radiation of heat from the interior to the outside environment is prevented. Transparent emissivity-reducing coatings can, for example, contain reflective layers based on indium tin oxide (ITO) or other transparent conductive oxides (TCO). When designed as a roof pane, these ensure that thermal radiation is reflected into the interior of the vehicle, which significantly increases comfort for the vehicle occupants.The low-E coating preferably does not contain any silver layers and can thus be arranged on the first main surface of the first disc without causing problems with corrosion.

[0034] Furthermore, the glazing unit can comprise further functional elements, in particular electronically controllable optical elements, for example PDLC elements, electrochromic elements, photovoltaic cells or the like, which are typically arranged between the first pane and the second pane.

[0035] The glazing unit can additionally comprise at least one light extraction means for extracting light from the second pane via at least one of the main surfaces. The light coupled into the second pane is then extracted from the second pane via the light extraction means, thus causing the second pane to illuminate there. The light extraction means is suitable for extracting a portion of the light guided in the second pane, preferably by scattering, reflection, refraction, or diffraction, at at least one of the main surfaces of the pane. Advantageously, the light extraction means is arranged or incorporated into the first main surface and / or the second main surface and / or within the pane. For this purpose, the light extraction means is preferably introduced into the first main surface and / or the second main surface by laser structuring, mechanical structuring such as sandblasting, and / or by etching.

[0036] Alternatively or in combination, the light coupling means can be materially connected to the first main surface and / or to the second main surface of the first pane, preferably by printing or gluing on a color, a paste or particles, particularly preferably light-scattering, light-refracting or light-reflecting particles.

[0037] In a preferred embodiment, the glazing unit is a roof pane or windshield of a motor vehicle, with the first pane being the outer pane and the second pane being the inner pane. This achieves the technical advantage, for example, of using the glazing unit in a particularly suitable location. Alternatively, the first pane can be the inner pane and the second pane the outer pane.

[0038] A further aspect of the invention comprises a system comprising a glazing unit according to the invention and a control unit. The control unit controls the electronic component. The control unit can comprise a voltage source and / or a data processing unit.

[0039] A further aspect of the invention comprises a vehicle, in particular a passenger car, with a glazing unit according to the invention.

[0040] A method for producing a glazing unit according to the invention comprises at least the following steps: a) providing a first pane, a second pane and a particularly thermoplastic intermediate layer, wherein the second pane has a cavity with at least one opening directed towards the intermediate layer, b) filling the cavity with a filling containing an optically transparent, curable adhesive, c) arranging at least one electronic component in the filling of the cavity, d) joining the first pane and the second pane via the thermoplastic intermediate layer such that the second main surface of the first pane faces the thermoplastic intermediate layer, wherein curing of the optically transparent, curable adhesive takes place after step c) or after step d).

[0041] The curable, optically transparent adhesive can be cured by heat, exposure to electromagnetic radiation, preferably UV radiation, and / or chemically. Curing is preferably achieved by applying heat or increasing the temperature and / or UV radiation. The adhesive is poured into the cavity in liquid or flowable form and then cured.

[0042] In step d) of the process according to the invention, the first pane and a second pane are bonded together by at least one thermoplastic intermediate layer to form a composite pane. Preferably, the first pane and the second pane are laminated together via the intermediate layer, for example, by autoclave processes, vacuum bag processes, vacuum ring processes, calender processes, vacuum laminators, or combinations thereof. The bonding of the panes is typically achieved under the influence of heat, vacuum, and / or pressure.

[0043] The thermoplastic intermediate layer is preferably provided as a film.

[0044] Alternatively, the layer stack consisting of the first pane, second pane, and intermediate layer can first be laminated to form a composite pane, leaving the cavity (extended space between the panes) free. The polymer filling, preferably an optically transparent adhesive in liquid or flowable form, is then poured into this cavity and cured. Alternatively, a prefabricated part of the polymer filling, for example, the part containing the electrical component to be integrated, can be inserted already cured and enclosed in an optically transparent adhesive in liquid or flowable form.

[0045] Typically, the first pane and the second pane are bent before being joined to form the composite pane. For this purpose, they are subjected to a bending process to give them a cylindrical or spherically curved shape. Typical temperatures for glass bending processes are, for example, 500°C to 700°C. At these temperatures, the (glass) panes become plastically deformable and can be formed into the desired shape using known bending processes, such as gravity bending, press bending, suction bending or combinations thereof. Preferably, the second pane is given a greater bend in the first region than the first pane, so that in the subsequent composite pane the distance between the first pane and the second pane increases, at least in the first region.

[0046] During the production of the composite pane, the first pane and the second pane are arranged flat and congruently on top of one another, with at least one thermoplastic film preferably being placed between them. The at least one thermoplastic film can be arranged over the entire surface between the panes or only in one area of ​​the space between the panes, namely the area that is not expanded due to the increasing distance between the panes. This is preferably the second area of ​​the second pane.

[0047] Within the scope of the present invention, all embodiments mentioned for individual features can also be freely combined with one another, provided they are not contradictory.

[0048] The invention is explained in more detail below with reference to figures and exemplary embodiments. The figures are schematic representations and not to scale. The figures do not limit the invention in any way. It should be noted that different aspects are described, each of which can be used individually or in combination. This means that any aspect can be used with different embodiments of the invention, unless explicitly presented as a mere alternative.

[0049] They show: Fig. 1 a schematic cross-sectional view of a glazing unit according to the invention, Fig. 2A is a plan view of a first embodiment of the glazing unit according to the invention, Fig. 2B is a plan view of a second embodiment of the glazing unit according to the invention, Fig. 2C is a plan view of a third embodiment of the glazing unit according to the invention, Fig. 2D is a plan view of a fourth embodiment of the glazing unit according to the invention, Fig. 3A is a schematic cross-sectional view of the glazing unit according to the invention with a transparent intermediate layer, Fig. 3B is a schematic cross-sectional view of the glazing unit according to the invention with an optical element, Fig. 4 a schematic cross-sectional view of the glazing unit according to the invention with a dark intermediate layer, and Fig. 5 a flow diagram of a process for manufacturing the glazing unit.

[0050] Numerical values ​​are generally not to be understood as exact values, but also include a tolerance of + / - 1% to + / - 10%.

[0051] Fig. Figure 1 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of a glazing unit 10 according to the invention, using the example of a laminated pane 101 with an electronic component 5. The electronic component 5 is a light source, in particular an LED module. Alternatively or additionally, the electrical component 5 can comprise a radar, a sensor, a camera, or a strip-shaped LED module.

[0052] The laminated pane 101 can, for example, be automotive glazing (e.g., windshield or roof pane), architectural glazing, or a component of a piece of furniture. The glazing unit can also be part of an insulating glazing unit and serve, for example, as an exterior or interior pane in a window of a building. Furthermore, the glazing unit 10 can be installed in an interior space and can serve, for example, as the glazing of a conference room.

[0053] The glazing unit 10 comprises a first pane 1 with a first main surface I and a second main surface II. The first pane 1 is connected to a second pane 2 via an intermediate layer 3 to form the composite pane 101. The first pane 1, the intermediate layer 3, and the second pane 2 were bonded to one another by lamination, in particular in an autoclave. The second pane 2 has a first main surface III and a second main surface VI opposite the first main surface III. The first pane 1 and the second pane 2 are made, for example, of soda-lime glass. The intermediate layer 3 is thermoplastic and is formed, for example, from a 0.76 mm thick PVB film. The thickness of the first pane 1 is, for example, 2.1 mm and the thickness of the second pane 2 is 1.6 mm. However, the first pane 1 and the second pane 2 can also have any desired thickness, for example, be the same thickness.The composite pane 101 is bounded by four circumferential side surfaces 13.

[0054] The glazing unit 10 further comprises the electronic component 5, which is arranged in a cavity 7 of the second pane 2. The composite pane 101 has a first region B1 in which the second main surface II of the first pane 1 and the first main surface III of the second pane 2 do not run parallel to one another, at least in sections. In the first region B1, the cavity 7 forms between the second main surface II of the first pane 1 and the first main surface III of the second pane 2. In other words, the cavity 7 is an expanded space between the panes. The distance between the second main surface II of the first pane 1 and the first main surface III of the second pane 2 is not constant. As a result, the cavity 7 between the first panes 1 and the second pane 2 is widened, so that the electronic component 5 is securely integrated into the composite pane 101.

[0055] In the first area B1, the second disc 2 has, at least in sections, a stronger curvature K ( Fig. 2A) than the curvature of the rest of the second pane 2. The remaining area of ​​the second pane 2 forms a second area B2 in which the second pane 2 has been bent to a lesser extent than in the first area B1. A greater curvature generally corresponds to a smaller radius of curvature of the pane. This means that, for example, corners or side edges of the second pane 2 can be provided with a particularly pronounced bend. In the first area B1, the distance between the second main surface II of the first pane 1 and the first main surface III of the second pane 2 is greater than in the second area B2 of the second pane 2, with the transition from the second area B2 to the first area B1 being stepped. In particular, the second pane 2 has a projection in the first area B1. When the composite pane 101 is mounted, the cavity 7 is formed by the projection.The cavity 7 is open to a side surface 13 of the composite pane 101.

[0056] The first area B1 is in at least one corner 19 ( Fig. 2C) of the second pane 2. The bending of the second pane 2 in the first region B1 is greater than the bending of the remaining pane 2. The first region B1 is arranged in an edge region of the second pane 2, wherein the first region B1 can extend at least in sections along a circumferential pane edge 17 of the second pane 2 or along the entire circumferential pane edge 17. In a further embodiment, the first region B1 extends along two opposite pane edges ( Fig. 2B). For example, two adjacent corners 19 can be provided with a particularly pronounced bend. However, it can also be the case, for example, that all four corners 19 of the second pane are provided with a particularly pronounced bend ( Fig. 2C).

[0057] In further embodiments of the glazing unit according to the invention, the cavity 7 can have any basic geometric shape, such as the shape of a circle, quadrilateral, triangle, square, rectangle, pentagon or that of another regular or irregular polygon.

[0058] The cavity 7 has an opening 9 directed towards the intermediate layer 3 and a filling 11 formed from an optically transparent, cured adhesive. The filling 11 can be a liquid polymer filling, in particular a cured, optically transparent adhesive. The adhesive is poured into the cavity 7 in liquid or flowable form and then cured. By filling the cavity 7 with a curable, liquid adhesive during production, the electronic component 5 can be embedded in the adhesive and securely stored. These are major advantages of the present invention. The filling 11 is connected directly to the second pane 2 and, via the intermediate layer 3, to the first pane 1. Alternatively, the filling 11 can be connected to the second pane 2 and / or directly to the first pane 1 via an adhesion-promoting layer.

[0059] The composite pane 101 is intended to at least partially transmit coupled-in light 21. The dimensions of the first pane 1 or the second pane 2 can be, for example, 1.4 m × 1.5 m. The first pane 1 and the second pane 2 are made of soda-lime glass, for example. The thickness of the first pane 1 and that of the second pane is, for example, 3 mm, 2.1 mm, or 1.6 mm each. It is understood that the thicknesses of the first pane 1 and the second pane 2 can be adapted to the respective use. The first pane 1 and / or the second pane 2 can, for example, contain tempered, partially tempered, or non-tempered glass. Alternatively, the first pane 1 and / or the second pane 2 can be made of a plastic, for example, polycarbonate.

[0060] The cured, optically transparent adhesive can, for example, contain or consist of polyurethane (PU), polyacrylate, polyacetate resin, casting resin, epoxy resin, Acralyt, or a copolymer or mixture thereof. Advantageously, the optically transparent adhesive consists of a casting resin, particularly polyurethane- or silicone-based.

[0061] The electronic component 5 is a light source located entirely within the filling 11. The light source is an LED module (LED light). The light source can comprise one or more light-emitting diodes (LEDs, LED light). The electronic component 5 can also comprise an organic light-emitting diode (OLED), a display device, or a high-performance LED. The light 21 of the light source is directed toward the second pane 2. The refractive index of the filling 11 and the refractive index of the second pane 2 are the same or almost the same. The refractive index of the second pane 2 can be, for example, 1.51 at a wavelength of 550 nm.

[0062] The composite pane 101 can further comprise light extraction means. A light extraction means extracts light from the second pane 1 or the second pane 2. The light extraction means can be arranged on the first main surface IV of the second pane 2. At the location where a light extraction means is arranged, the light can exit the first pane 1 or the second pane 2 via the main surface. The light extraction means can be arranged at any location on the first main surface IV or the main surface I. The light extraction means can comprise structuring of the main surface at which total internal reflection within the first pane 1 or the second pane 2 is prevented and light exits via the main surfaces.The light extraction means may comprise an imprint on the first main surface or light-scattering, light-refracting, light-diffracting or light-reflecting particles or cavities introduced into the panes.

[0063] The first pane 1 preferably represents an outer pane and the second pane 2 represents an inner pane. In the installed position, the inner pane faces an interior space. In the installed position, the outer pane faces the external environment (e.g., a vehicle). This arrangement is particularly advantageous due to the position of the electronic component 5 as a light source in the first pane 1, since the light is coupled out toward a (vehicle) interior, which leads to a pleasant atmosphere in the interior. Alternatively, the second pane 2 can also represent the outer pane and the first pane 1 the inner pane.

[0064] In Fig. Figure 2A shows a plan view of a first embodiment of the glazing unit 10. The composite pane 101 has a first region B1 arranged in a peripheral edge region. The first region B1 surrounds the second region B2 in a frame-like manner. The glazing unit 10 of the Fig. 2a to Fig. 2D has a structure like in Fig. 1, so that in the following only the differences will be discussed and otherwise the description of the Fig. 1. The first region B1 surrounds the second region B2 in a frame-like manner, with the first region B1 extending along the entire circumferential edge 17 of the pane. The electronic component 5 is a light source located entirely within the filling 11 and is an LED module in the form of an LED strip. For this purpose, the second pane 2 has a greater curvature K in the first region than the curvature of the remaining second pane 2 in the second region B2.

[0065] Fig. Figure 2B shows a second embodiment of the glazing unit 10 according to the invention, in which the first region B1 extends only along two opposite pane edges 17. The cavities 7 extend in a strand-like manner along the second pane 2. In each of the cavities 7 there is an LED strip as an electronic component 5. Otherwise, the glazing unit 10 of the Fig. 2B a similar structure to the glazing unit 10 of Fig. 2A.

[0066] In Fig. Figure 2C is a third embodiment of the glazing unit 10 according to the invention, which differs in the arrangement of the first area B1 of Fig. 2B. The glazing unit 10 has a plurality of first regions B1, each of which is located at a corner 19 of the second pane 2. In contrast to the light source from Fig. 2B is in Fig. 2C, the electronic component 5 is designed as a point light source (for example, an LED light). The glazing unit 10 has four electronic components 5 as four light sources (LED lights). Fig. 2D, the glazing unit 10 has eight electronic components 5, each of which is arranged in a first region B1.

[0067] Fig. 3A shows a schematic cross-sectional view of the glazing unit 10 according to the invention with a transparent intermediate layer 3. The electronic component 5 is completely embedded in the filling 11 formed from an optically transparent, cured adhesive. The electronic component 5 is a light source that emits light 21 in the visible range. The light source is an LED module (LED lamp). The light source can comprise one or more light-emitting diodes (LEDs, LED lamps). A light source can also comprise an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) or a high-performance LED. The light 21 of the light source is directed toward the first pane 1 and the intermediate layer 3. The light source was arranged in the cavity 7 such that the light 21 is coupled into the composite pane 101. The light 21 propagates in the composite pane 101.

[0068] The Fig. 3B shows a further development of the glazing unit 10 from Fig. 3A with an optical element 23, wherein the light source emits light 21 via the optical element 23, so that the light 21 of the light source can be coupled into the composite pane 101. The optical element 23 can be a transparent body, a lens, or an optical collimator. The glazing unit 10 has a similar structure to the glazing unit 10 of Fig. 3A, so that the description of the Fig. 3A is referred to.

[0069] In Fig. Figure 4 shows a cross-sectional view of the glazing unit 10 with a dark intermediate layer 3 and / or dark first pane 1. For this purpose, the first pane 1 and / or the intermediate layer 3 can be tinted or colored, for example. The intermediate layer 3 can have a tinted, in particular a dark tint (gray, brown, blue) or colored PVB film. Alternatively or additionally, the first pane 1 can be dark tinted (gray, brown, blue).

[0070] The intermediate layer 3 is firmly bonded, on the one hand, to the second main surface II of the first pane 1 and, on the opposite side, to the first main surface III of the second pane 2. The intermediate layer 3 can be formed by one or more films arranged one above the other, with the thickness of a film preferably being from 0.025 mm to 1 mm, typically 0.38 mm or 0.76 mm. The intermediate layers 3 can preferably be thermoplastic and, after lamination, bond the first pane 1, the second pane 2, and any further intermediate layers together.

[0071] It can be clearly seen that the light 21 is coupled into the second disc 2 and propagates within the second disc 2. Analogous to Fig. 3A, the electronic component 5 is a light source that emits light 21 in the visible range. The light source is an LED module (LED lamp). The light source can comprise one or more light-emitting diodes (LEDs, LED lamps). A light source can also comprise an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) or a high-power LED. In Fig. 4, the light source is completely embedded in the filling 11. The light 21 of the light source is directed toward the second pane 2. The light source was arranged in the cavity 7 in such a way that the light 21 couples into the second pane 2.

[0072] Additionally, a reflective layer can be arranged between the intermediate layer 3 and the second pane 2 as a light amplification means (not shown here), which is intended to amplify the coupling of light into the second pane 2. The light amplification means would then be arranged opposite the light source with respect to the second pane 2. The light amplification means preferably utilizes mechanisms of reflection, refraction, diffraction, and / or scattering.

[0073] Fig. Figure 5 shows a flow diagram of a method for producing the glazing unit 10 according to the invention. The method comprises at least the following method steps: a) Providing a first pane 1, a second pane 2 and a particularly thermoplastic intermediate layer 3, wherein the second pane 2 has a cavity 7 with at least one opening directed towards the intermediate layer, b) filling the cavity 7 with a filling 11 comprising an optically transparent, curable adhesive, c) arranging at least one electronic component 5 in the filling 11 of the cavity 7, d) connecting the first pane 1 and the second pane 2 via the thermoplastic intermediate layer 3, so that the second main surface III of the second pane 2 faces the thermoplastic intermediate layer 3, wherein curing of the optically transparent, curable adhesive takes place after step c) or after step d).

[0074] Typically, the first pane 1 and the second pane 2 are bent before being joined to form the composite pane 101. The bending of the first pane 1 and the second pane 2 takes place at a temperature of, for example, 500°C to 700°C, with the panes not being bent congruently in at least the first region B1 of the second pane 2. This creates the cavity 7 between the panes. The first pane 1 and the second pane 2 are bent separately from one another in at least one pane section.

[0075] Optionally, additional components 5 can be inserted into the cavity 7.

[0076] In step d), the first pane 1, a thermoplastic composite film as intermediate layer 3, and the second pane 2 are arranged to form a layer stack. The layer stack is then laminated to form the composite pane 101.

[0077] The glazing unit according to the invention with the electronic component has the advantage over prior art glazing in that the electronic component is protected within the glazing unit, meaning external influences do not negatively impact the electronic component. Furthermore, compared to a component attached to the outside of the glazing, the additional component does not interfere with the handling of the glazing.

[0078] The light intensity within the laminated pane is also advantageously increased by the use of an optically transparent, cured adhesive, as the light from a light source is coupled unhindered into the (laminated) pane. The electronic component as a light source is easily scalable, allowing an additional row of light sources to be added to increase the light intensity. The glazing unit according to the invention can be manufactured easily and cost-effectively. This was unexpected and surprising to those skilled in the art. List of reference symbols: 1 first slice 2 second slice 3 Intermediate layer 5 electronic components 7 Cavity 9 Opening 10 glazing units 11 Filling 13 Side surface 15 lead 17 Disc edge 19 Corner 21 Light 23 optical element 101 Composite pane B1 first area B2 second area K strong curvature I first main surface of the first disc 1 II second main surface of the first disc 1 III first main surface of the second disc 2 IV second main surface of the second disc 2 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] WO 2014 / 060409 A1

[0004] WO 2015 / 095288 A2

[0004] DE 20 2021 101 147 U1

[0005] WO 2004 / 106056 A1

[0006] WO 2019 / 105855 A1

[0007]

Claims

[1] Glazing unit (10) comprising at least: - a first disc (1) having a first main surface (I) and a second main surface (II), - a second pane (2) having a first main surface (III) and a second main surface (IV), wherein the first pane (1) is connected to the second pane (2) via an intermediate layer (3) to form a composite pane (101), - an electronic component (5), wherein the second disc (2) has a cavity (7) with at least one opening (9) directed towards the intermediate layer (3), wherein the cavity (7) is open to a side surface (13) of the composite pane (101) and the electronic component (5) is arranged in the cavity (7), wherein the cavity (7) has a filling (11) formed from an optically transparent, cured adhesive, and wherein the second main surface (II) of the first pane (1) and the first main surface (III) of the second pane (2) face one another and at least in sections do not run parallel to one another, wherein the second pane (2) has a first region (B1) which in sections has a greater curvature than the curvature of the rest of the second pane (2), and wherein the second pane (2) has a projection (15) in the first region (B1), and when the composite pane (101) is mounted, the cavity (7) is formed by the projection (15). [2] Glazing unit (10) according to claim 1, wherein the second pane (2) in the first region (B1) has a distance between the second main surface (II) of the first pane (1) and the first main surface (III) of the second pane (2) which is greater than in a second region (B2) of the second pane (2). [3] Glazing unit (10) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the electronic component (5) comprises a light source for generating light (21) that can be coupled into the second pane (2), a radar, a sensor, a camera, an LED module or a strip-shaped LED module. [4] Glazing unit (10) according to one of claims 1 to 3, wherein a refractive index of the filling (11) is equal to the refractive index of the second pane (2) at a wavelength of 550 nm. [5] Glazing unit (10) according to one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the first region (B1) is arranged in an edge region of the second pane (2) and wherein the edge region extends from a pane edge of the second pane up to 500 mm on one of the surfaces (III, IV) of the second pane. [6] Glazing unit (10) according to one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the first region (B1) extends at least in sections along a circumferential pane edge (17) of the second pane (2) or along the entire circumferential pane edge (17). [7] Glazing unit (10) according to one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the first region (B1) extends along two opposite pane edges (17). [8] Glazing unit (10) according to one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the first region (B1) is arranged at least one corner (19), in particular at four corners (19) of the second pane (2). [9] System comprising a glazing unit (10) according to one of claims 1 to 8 and a control unit for controlling the electronic component (5). [10] Vehicle, in particular passenger car, with a glazing unit (10) according to one of the preceding claims 1 to 8.

Citation Information

Patent Citations

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