Composite pane with an integrated functional element

Abstract

The invention relates to a composite pane (1), in particular for a vehicle, comprising an outer pane (2) with an outer face I and an inner face II and comprising an inner pane (3) with an outer face III and an inner face IV which are connected together via a thermoplastic intermediate layer (4). The composite pane (1) is equipped with at least one electric functional element (10) that is or comprises at least one in-mold electronic (IME) component (7b) and / or has at least one film with at least one functional surface on which at least one functional layer with at least one electric component is arranged, at least one electric module (7) being formed on the functional surface and / or a decorative layer being formed on the film, wherein the electric module (7) or the IME component (7b) is at least partly arranged in a recess or opening prefabricated for same or in a cut-back section of the inner pane (3) and / or the intermediate layer (4). The invention additionally relates to a method for producing the composite pane (1) and to the use thereof.

Description

[0001] Composite pane with integrated functional element

[0002] The invention relates to a composite pane with an integrated electrical functional element, as well as a method for producing such a composite pane and its use.

[0003] A wide variety of panes are used in automotive technology. There is a growing desire to integrate different functions into the panes. For example, increasing efforts are being made to integrate electrical functional elements, such as sensors (e.g., rain sensors, lighting sensors, distance sensors, etc.), or control elements (e.g., touch switches, proximity switches, lighting and display elements), or other functional elements (e.g., for driver assistance systems and / or for infotainment purposes) into the panes. Limiting factors include the space required by the functional elements and components, as well as the often complex manufacturing processes and the unsightly appearance of the resulting panes.

[0004] A wide variety of functional glazing systems are already being used in buildings and / or vehicles. DE 19927683 C1 discloses a laminated glass pane consisting of at least two glass panes and a transparent composite layer connecting them, as well as a sun protection layer that essentially reflects rays outside the visible spectrum of solar radiation, particularly infrared rays. The laminated glass pane is provided on its surface facing an interior with a further transparent coating (low-E layer) that essentially reflects heat rays and is spatially separated from the sun protection layer.

[0005] Windshields are also known in which a sun visor is integrated in the form of a functional element with electrically adjustable optical properties, in particular with electrically adjustable transmission or scattering behavior. This allows the driver to control the windshield's transmission behavior with respect to solar radiation, making the conventional mechanical sun visor unnecessary.

[0006] Electrically adjustable sun visors are also used in the glass roofs of motor vehicles. Especially with large panoramic glass panes, there is a need to variably control the transmission of the pane. Depending on the position of the sun, it may be necessary to dim only certain areas of the pane, or to make the entire surface opaque as a privacy screen in a parked vehicle. One such electrically switchable functional element for the realization of adjustable sun visors is a so-called PDLC (polymer dispersed liquid crystal) functional element. The active layer contains liquid crystals embedded in a polymer matrix. If no voltage is applied, the liquid crystals are randomly aligned, which leads to strong scattering of the light passing through the active layer.When a voltage is applied to the surface electrodes, the liquid crystals align in a common direction, increasing the light transmission through the active layer. The PDLC functional element works less by reducing the overall transmission, but rather by increasing the scattering to ensure glare protection.

[0007] Windshields with electrically adjustable sun visors are known, for example, from DE 102013001334 A1, DE 102005049081 B3, DE 102005007427 A1, and DE 102007027296 A1. DE 102010021563 A1 describes a windshield with an electrically adjustable sun visor that can be switched on or off in certain areas, with the dimming of the individual elements being controlled via a capacitive sensor arrangement in the edge area of ​​the sun visor.

[0008] Electrical contacting of electrically controllable functional elements is typically achieved via bus bars, which are applied to the surface electrodes at the edge of the functional element and provide electrical contact. By connecting the bus bars to an external voltage source, for example, via flat conductors attached to the bus bars, a voltage is applied to the surface electrodes, and the active layer of the functional element is switched.

[0009] US Patent No. 8,519,362 B2 describes a HUD system installed in a car. It is based on a laminated windshield, where the HUD function comes from a layer of luminophore material. US Patent No. 7,230,767 B2 describes a display system in a car windshield that uses a light-emitting material to project the image toward the driver. The image is a virtual image focused meters away from the driver's eyes and from the windshield.

[0010] WO 2020 / 143996 A1 discloses a device and method for displaying a digital image on a geometrically and photometrically non-trivial surface. In particular, the document discloses projecting an image onto a windshield comprising laminated glazing with a switchable liquid crystal layer.

[0011] A manufacturing method for a HUD system integrated into a laminated glass pane is described in EP 2 883 693. WO 2017 / 157626 A1 discloses a windshield with a functional element with electrically controllable optical properties.

[0012] WO 2018 / 215106 A1 discloses a laminated glass pane comprising a first glass layer and a second glass layer, wherein at least a first electrically conductive structure and a second electrically conductive structure are arranged between the first glass layer and the second glass layer, wherein the first electrically conductive structure and the second electrically conductive structure are arranged at a distance from one another, wherein the first electrically conductive structure at least partially overlaps the second electrically conductive structure in a perpendicular orientation with respect to the first glass layer, wherein the first electrically conductive structure is assigned to a first electrical element, wherein the first electrical element is a capacitive sensor.

[0013] WO 2022 / 152511 A1 describes a glazing with an operating device attached to the outside, wherein the operating device has at least one operating element arranged on the operating side, wherein the operating device is arranged on the outside of the pane of the glazing with a fastening side facing away from the operating side. The operating device comprises one or more electronic components and a power supply device. The operating device further comprises a thermally deformed film with a decorative side and an underside opposite the decorative side. The decorative side represents the operating side of the operating device. A functional layer with at least one electronic component is printed on the underside of the thermally deformed film.A body is arranged on the underside of the film and / or the functional layer, which is permanently connected to the film and / or the functional layer, for example, via a connection produced by injection molding. The operating device is preferably an in-mold operating device manufactured using a so-called in-mold electronics (IME) process. This IM E production process is already widely used in industrial and automotive electronics.

[0014] US 2019 / 134954 A1 discloses a luminous signal glazing as well as a vehicle with such glazing and the production of such glazing.

[0015] US 2019 / 291388 A1 discloses vehicle glazing with illuminated display.

[0016] WO 2018 / 122770 A1 discloses a laminated automotive glazing having a darkening region created by printing the darkening region onto a film laminated between at least two layers of plastic interlayers or directly onto the interlayer, instead of printing and firing an enamel frit onto the glass.

[0017] WO 2022 / 268691 A1 discloses a composite pane with a functional film having an opaque print, wherein the functional film can be, for example, a HUD film, a display film, an optical multilayer film, a film with an infrared radiation-reflecting coating or a functional film with electrically switchable optical properties.

[0018] The object of the present invention is to provide an improved composite pane with at least one electrical functional element, wherein the electrical functional element is integrated into the composite pane and, in addition to providing one or more functionalities, simultaneously enables an attractive, smooth, and aesthetic appearance of the composite pane. The composite pane with the integrated functional element should be easy and cost-effective to manufacture, even in industrial series production.

[0019] The object of the invention is achieved with regard to the composite pane and the method by the features of the independent claims. Useful embodiments are set forth in the respective subclaims.

[0020] According to the invention, a composite pane, in particular for a vehicle, is provided with an outer pane with an outer side I and an inner side II and an inner pane with an outer side III and an inner side IV, which are connected to one another via a thermoplastic intermediate layer, wherein at least one electrical functional element is integrated in the composite pane, which

[0021] • has at least one film with at least one functional surface, on which at least one functional layer with at least one electrical component is arranged, wherein at least one electrical module is formed on the functional surface and / or a decorative layer is formed on the film and / or which

[0022] • is or comprises at least one in-mold electronics (IME) component, wherein the electrical module and / or the IME component is at least partially arranged in a prefabricated recess, cutout or in a cutout of the inner pane and / or the intermediate layer. An integrated functional element is understood to mean at least one electrical functional element which is introduced into the composite pane and laminated in such a way that it is either completely embedded between the outer pane and inner pane, preferably between the inner pane and the intermediate layer, or the electrical functional element is formed and arranged at least substantially flush and level with the inner side IV of the inner pane.

[0023] According to the invention, it is thus possible to provide a multitude of functions integrated into the composite pane within an optimized installation space, while simultaneously maintaining an appealing, aesthetic appearance of the composite pane. An electrical functional element according to the invention is expediently connected to a power supply device.

[0024] The laminated glass is primarily used as a vehicle window to separate a vehicle interior from the outside environment. The laminated glass can be used in a variety of ways. For example, it can be a roof window, a windshield, a rear window, a side window, or another laminated glass that defines the vehicle interior.

[0025] The composite pane is preferably curved in one or more spatial directions, as is usual for motor vehicle windows, with typical radii of curvature in the range of approximately 10 cm to approximately 40 m. The composite pane can also be flat, for example if it is intended as a pane for buses, trains or tractors. The composite pane is manufactured by lamination using, for example, vacuum bag processes, vacuum ring processes, calender processes, vacuum laminators, autoclave processes or combinations thereof. The outer pane and inner pane are usually joined under the influence of heat, vacuum and / or pressure. The so-called autoclave process, for example, is carried out at an increased pressure of approximately 10 bar to 15 bar and temperatures of 130 °C to 145 °C for approximately 2 hours.

[0026] For the purposes of the invention, the “outside” refers to the main surface which is intended to face the external environment in the installed position. For the purposes of the invention, the “inside” refers to the main surface which is intended to face the interior in the installed position. The outside can also be referred to as the outside surface. The inside can also be referred to as the interior surface. In one embodiment, the electrical functional element can be designed as a film which has at least one functional surface with a functional layer with at least one electrical component and a decorative layer. The film is preferably a polyester or polycarbonate film. The term “functional surface” means that a functional layer with electronics is applied to one surface side of the film and the electronics comprise at least one electronic component.The film is also referred to below as a functional film. The electrical component of the functional layer can, for example, be part of a control element. For the purposes of this invention, a control element is understood to be an area of ​​the user interface, in particular the film surface, with an associated component that performs a switching function by pressing (touching) or pressing and a sliding movement. Such control elements are known per se.

[0027] The electrical functional element can be designed, for example, as an operating device with one or more operating elements and, if appropriate, further components, for example with lighting means.

[0028] The functional layer can, for example, be applied to the functional surface of the film using a printing process, or it can be another film that is thermally bonded to the functional surface of the film or by means of an adhesive layer. It is also possible for the functional film to be provided with a functional layer on both sides.

[0029] A decorative layer is understood to mean that at least a portion of the film, on the functional surface or on the surface of the film opposite the functional surface, is provided with a decorative or functional decoration, for example with color, graphics, text, symbols or patterns. This can occur simultaneously with or subsequently to the production, for example printing, of the electrical components. For example, graphics and conductor tracks can be screen printed with functional inks on thin polyester or polycarbonate films. Furthermore, it is possible to apply desired or required decorative elements to a carrier film using screen or digital printing and to bond this decorative film to the functional film before or during lamination to form the composite pane.An analogous procedure is known in the field of in-mold decoration of integrated electronic components, although according to the invention the molding and back-injection of the films to produce a body is replaced by the lamination process to form the composite pane. With regard to a design of the electrical functional element as an integrated operating device, a visual and intuitively operable user interface, for example with touch buttons (touch switches) or sliders (sliding switches), can be created and provided in this way in a simple and cost-effective manner. Accordingly, it is provided that the decorative layer is applied essentially to the side facing a viewer and possibly potential operator (operating side) and is arranged in the composite pane, for example in the direction of a vehicle interior.

[0030] Alternatively or in addition to a decorative layer, an electrical module, in particular a 3D electrical component, is arranged on the functional surface. This module is arranged at least partially in a specially adapted, prefabricated recess, cutout, or in a recess in the inner pane and / or the intermediate layer.

[0031] A recess is understood here to be a cavity in the inner pane or the intermediate layer, which is intended and suitably designed to accommodate the electrical module as flush as possible, in particular to compensate for the internal height of the electrical module. This allows for secure storage and fastening, and the inner pane forms the surface facing the interior, so that the electrical module and the entire electrical functional element are protected from environmental influences. Furthermore, the recess at least partially compensates for the internal height of the module, thus preventing breakage of the composite pane, particularly the inner pane, during the lamination process.

[0032] A recess is understood to be an opening through the inner pane and / or intermediate layer, for example a through-hole through the inner pane, which is provided before use in the manufacturing process. The opening is intended to accommodate the electrical module or the IME as flush as possible. In one embodiment, the electrical module or the IME component can then form a surface, for example a user interface to the interior, in particular to the vehicle interior. If required, it is also possible to lead connection elements out of the inner pane of the composite pane and provide them. Alternatively, however, it is also possible for the electrical module not to fill the recess in terms of room height up to the inside of the inner pane.The recess can then, if necessary, be filled with a transparent plastic, for example, after the lamination process, to create a flush, flat surface with the inside of the inner pane, and sealed gas-tight. This protects the electrical module from external influences. For example, an opening to the interior can also be sealed by means of a subsequent, possibly spatially and / or temporally limited lamination in the composite pane. A PVB film used for this purpose can, for example, have a thickness of 50 μm to 0.38 mm. Alternatively, a transparent plastic could be used to seal the opening.

[0033] A cutback is defined as a section-by-section lateral offset of the inner pane and / or the intermediate layer from the dimensions of the corresponding edge of the outer pane. Such a cutback can be created, for example, by cutting or other conventional means. Here, too, the dimensions are expediently adapted to the specific space requirements of the electrical module or IME component, so that secure storage and fastening, as well as a visually appealing appearance, can be achieved during the lamination process.

[0034] Alternatively or additionally, the electrical functional element is or comprises an in-mold electronic (IME) component, which, as previously described, is arranged at least partially in a specially adapted, prefabricated recess, cutout, or in a recess in the inner pane and / or the intermediate layer. The invention describes for the first time the integration of IME components into a composite pane. The IME component can advantageously be integrated into the composite pane, i.e., inserted and attached, during the usual lamination process. A further process step for inserting or attaching it to the composite pane as a separate, functional component is advantageously not required.

[0035] IME is a fundamentally well-known technology for manufacturing electronic devices and components, now widely used in industrial and automotive electronics. With the advent of more ductile materials and more conductive inks that can withstand high-temperature molding, rigid circuit boards have become obsolete, allowing conductor tracks to be applied directly to the plastic surfaces of electronic devices. This makes it possible to manufacture flexible foil boards and 3D structural electronics, for example, with resistors, integrated circuits, sensors, antennas, and LEDs, which can take on the curved shapes of, for example, the housings of a wide variety of devices.Optimal adaptation to the design of the composite pane according to the invention, for example, adapted to the curvature of panes commonly found in the automotive sector, as well as a wide variety of design specifications and requirements, is easily possible with the provision and integration of an IME component. Components of such integrated electronics can include, for example, electrical circuits such as flexible circuit boards and wiring, lighting, control elements such as printed capacitive touch control elements, and sensors of all kinds such as ultrasonic, radar, IR, inductive and capacitive sensors, for example ambient light, shock, stress, proximity and acceleration sensors, antennas and integrated circuits. An attractive design and integrated, diverse functionality of the composite panes can advantageously be provided in a wide variety of optimized ways according to the invention.By reducing the number of parts and moving components, the risk of failures as well as manufacturing and assembly costs, and potentially downstream maintenance costs, are reduced. The integration of custom-shaped IM E components and the electronics embedded therein can not only be aesthetically pleasing, they are also functional and particularly reliable. According to the invention, a composite pane can thus be provided into which, for example, a compact operating device is integrated and in which the operating device meets demanding design specifications with regard to placement, accessibility, and functionality. In particular, it is possible to integrate human-machine interfaces (HMI), for example with gesture control, touch switches / touch control, as well as ambient or reading lighting, designs for Shy-Tech displays into the composite pane.In a less preferred embodiment, an IME component can also be positioned in a recess or in a lateral cutout of the composite pane after the lamination process and fastened, for example, with an acrylate adhesive.

[0036] The integrated IME component can, for example, include a touch control and a user interface. Capacitive touch control is already used in many well-known IME applications. This interface replaces the pressing of a physical button with the touch of a finger. The conductive tracks on the circuit board are located below the touch point and monitor the change in the electrostatic field. When the capacitive plate, for example, the inside of the inner pane, or the user interface of the integrated IME component itself in the composite pane, is touched, a small charge is drawn to the touch point – our finger acts as a functional capacitor. In vehicles, such interfaces are used, for example, to turn on the headlights, the power supply, or to adjust the volume.

[0037] In one embodiment, the electrical functional element is formed with and / or connected to conductor tracks, electrical circuits, operating elements, sensors, antennas, and / or integrated circuits, and lighting devices. In another embodiment, a surface-mounted electrical component (SMD), preferably selected from the group consisting of LEDs, OLEDs, diodes, integrated circuits, resistors, and capacitors, is arranged as an electrical module on the functional surface of the electrical functional element. Particularly preferably, the surface-mounted electrical component (SMD) is selected from the group consisting of integrated circuits, resistors, and capacitors.

[0038] In another embodiment, the electrical module is a system-in-package (SIP) chip or a system-on-chip (SoC). System-in-package (SiP) refers to semiconductor circuits that combine various chips into a complete electronic system. In such a SiP package, all functions that are normally performed by individual chips are combined in a single chip. Since chips already exist for most functionalities, these are combined in one package using SiP technology. These can be, for example, analog and digital functions such as those of comparators or amplifiers, logic circuits or memory units, input / output systems (I / O), and digital signal processing (DSP). In a system-in-package, all individual chips are stacked on top of each other to form a package. These three-dimensional chips (3D ICs) lead to significant space savings and lower costs.The advantages of SiP technology lie in its flexibility, allowing active and passive components, as well as analog and digital circuits, to be combined into a single system. This combination is technology-independent and allows the use of CMOS technology, silicon germanium (SiGe), gallium arsenide (GaAs), and other compound semiconductors. A system-on-chip, on the other hand, is a single chip containing all the required electronics. These designs allow a wide range of functions to be implemented in a compact design and integrated into the composite wafer.

[0039] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the electrical module is a system-in-package (SiP) or a system-on-chip (SoC), wherein the chip is arranged in a recess, a cutout or a cutback of the inner pane and / or the intermediate layer.

[0040] In a preferred embodiment of the composite pane according to the invention, the electrical functional element is at least one in-mold electronics (IME) component. Particularly preferably, the electronics (IME) component is arranged in a prefabricated recess or in a cutout of the inner pane. In a further embodiment of the composite pane according to the invention, the electrical functional element is connected, in particular, via a connection, in particular a data connection, to a control unit and / or the on-board electronics, in particular the vehicle electronics. This can be a wired or cable-based data connection or a wireless data connection. For example, the electrical functional element can be connected via connecting cables, bus bars, in particular CAN bus, LIN bus, MOST bus, FlexRay, or Automotive Ethernet.

[0041] In another embodiment, the composite pane according to the invention can contain at least one electrically switchable layer that is functionally connected to the electrical functional element. In particular, the electrical functional element can be designed to be suitable for controlling the electrically switchable layer. This provides a switchable composite pane that comprises one or more electrically switchable layers with two functional states. This can be a layer, e.g. a liquid crystal layer, for example a PDLC or LC layer, or a layer with SPD (Suspended Particle Device) or Guest Host technology, which can be switched, for example, between a transparent and a translucent or opaque state. Furthermore, it can be an electrochromic or luminescent layer, e.g. an OLED layer.Guest-host technology uses molecularly doped polymers in the field of optoelectronics. These guest-host systems consist of a polymer matrix in which a low-molecular-weight, functional compound is dissolved. Because the actual function is performed by the mixed guest molecules, the systems can be easily adapted to a specific application without the need for chemical modification of the polymer itself. Such materials are already used, for example, in optical information technology and sensor technology, as systems for holographic storage, as nonlinear materials for frequency doubling and electro-optical modulation, or as the active layer in organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs).

[0042] The electrically switchable layer with two functional states can be formed over the entire surface or part of the surface. Such layers are conveniently connected in the composite pane via busbars. The electrically switchable layers can also include or implement other functions, for example, as heating layers.

[0043] In a further embodiment of the composite pane according to the invention, it is provided that the electrical functional element is functionally connected to at least one further electrically switchable component or module, in particular to electrical circuits, operating elements, sensors, antennas, imaging and image-recording devices such as cameras, displays or projectors, and / or acoustic modules, or lighting elements.

[0044] The composite pane according to the invention can comprise one or more functional layers, in particular an infrared-reflecting layer, an infrared-absorbing layer, a low-E layer, a UV-reflecting layer, or a UV-absorbing layer. These infrared- and UV-reflecting or absorbing layers are preferably arranged spatially behind the electrical functional element when viewed through the composite pane in the direction of view from the inner pane to the outer pane. Thus, they can advantageously protect the electrical functional element from harmful effects caused by strong solar radiation. A low-E coating is typically arranged on the inner side of the inner pane. The aforementioned functional layers also contribute to climate comfort, for example, for vehicle occupants.

[0045] The thermoplastic intermediate layer is preferably transparent. The intermediate layer preferably contains 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, 0.76 mm, or 0.84 mm. The intermediate layer can preferably be thermoplastic and, after lamination, can bond the inner pane, the outer pane, and any additional intermediate layers together.In the sense of the invention, lamination is the joining of the inner pane, intermediate layer and outer pane, as well as the integration and fixing of at least one electrical functional element.

[0046] In a further embodiment, the composite pane can have or comprise a functional intermediate layer, in particular with acoustically dampening properties, a wedge-shaped intermediate layer, for example for composite panes with a HUD function, an intermediate layer that is colored at least in sections, and / or an intermediate layer that is tinted at least in sections. The inner pane and the outer pane preferably contain glass, particularly preferably flat glass, float glass, quartz glass, borosilicate glass, soda-lime 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 composite pane with inner pane and outer pane is preferably transparent, in particular for use as a vehicle windshield or other applications where high light transmission is desired.For the purposes of the invention, a pane is considered transparent if it has a transmission in the visible spectral range of greater than 70%. However, for panes that are not within the driver's relevant field of vision, such as roof windows, the transmission can be much lower, for example, greater than 5%.

[0047] In one advantageous embodiment, the thickness of the inner pane is 0.4 mm to 3.5 mm, preferably 0.9 mm to 2.1 mm. In one advantageous embodiment, the thickness of the outer pane is at least 1.4 mm, preferably at least 1.6 mm. The thickness of the outer pane is preferably at most 4.5 mm, preferably at most 2.1 mm. In this range, the laminated pane has advantageous mechanical stability and noise-shielding properties, but is nevertheless sufficiently thin and light to be used as a windshield. The outer pane, the inner pane and the thermoplastic intermediate layer can be clear and colorless, but also tinted or colored. The total transmittance through the laminated pane is greater than 70% in one preferred embodiment, particularly when the laminated pane is a windshield. The term total transmittance refers to the value defined in ECE-R 43, Annex 3, Section 9.1 specified procedures for testing the light transmittance of motor vehicle windows.

[0048] The outer pane may preferably have a black print on the inside in the area near the edge of the glass in order to conceal, for example, connecting cables, adhesive beads for fastening the pane or one or more electrical functional elements arranged therein and to provide UV protection.

[0049] Furthermore, the invention relates to a method for producing a composite pane with an integrated electrical functional element, as described above in various embodiments, comprising the steps

[0050] A) Providing at least one electrical functional element, wherein the functional element has at least one film, in particular a PE / PC film, with at least one functional surface on which at least one functional layer with at least one electrical component is arranged, wherein at least one electrical module is formed on the functional surface and / or a decorative layer is formed on the film and / or the electrical functional element is or comprises at least one IM E component,

[0051] B) Providing a stacking sequence comprising an outer pane, an inner pane, at least one thermoplastic film arranged therebetween to form the thermoplastic intermediate layer and the at least one electrical functional element, wherein the at least one electrical functional element is arranged in the stacking sequence such that the electrical module or the IME component is arranged at least partially in a recess, cutout or in a cutback of the inner pane and / or the intermediate layer prefabricated for this purpose,

[0052] C) Laminating the stack sequence to form a composite disc.

[0053] In a further embodiment of the method, the electrical functional element is formed or connected to a system-in-package (SiP) chip and / or to a system-on-chip (SoC), and wherein this chip is arranged in a recess, a gap or a cutout of the inner pane and / or the intermediate layer.

[0054] In another embodiment of the method, it is provided that at least one electrically switchable layer, in particular a switchable liquid crystal layer, is formed.

[0055] In a further embodiment of the invention, it is provided that one or more functional layers, in particular an infrared ray-reflecting layer, an infrared ray-absorbing layer, a UV ray-reflecting layer, a UV ray-absorbing layer are formed. These infrared ray and UV ray-reflecting or absorbing layers can preferably be arranged spatially behind the electrical functional element when viewed through the composite pane in the direction of view from the inner pane to the outer pane. For example, they can be formed and arranged on the inside of the outer pane or in the intermediate layer, while the electrical functional element is arranged, for example, between the intermediate layer and the inner pane. These functional layers can thus advantageously protect the electrical functional element from harmful influences caused by strong solar radiation.Such functional layers are widely known and described and can be produced in known ways, for example by physical or chemical vapor deposition processes (PVD and CVD) or cathode ray processes (sputtering).

[0056] Furthermore, in one embodiment of the method for forming the intermediate layer, a functional intermediate layer, in particular an intermediate layer with acoustically damping properties, or an intermediate layer that is colored at least in sections and / or an intermediate layer that is tinted at least in sections, or even a wedge-shaped film can be used.

[0057] According to a further embodiment of the method for producing a composite pane according to the invention, the electrical functional element is connected to a control unit and / or the on-board electronics via connecting cables, bus bars, in particular CAN bus, LIN bus, MOST bus, FlexRay, or Automotive Ethernet. Additionally or alternatively, the electrical functional element can be functionally connected to other electrical functional elements, electrically switchable layers, or components, such as electrical circuits, sensors, antennas, cameras, displays, and projectors. These can be arranged inside or outside the composite pane, if necessary.

[0058] The invention further relates to the use of a composite pane as described above in various designs and embodiments in vehicles for land, air, or water transport, in particular for motor vehicles, in particular as a roof pane, windshield, or side window. Alternatively, the composite pane can also be used as building glazing.

[0059] The various embodiments of the invention can be implemented individually or in any combination. In particular, the features mentioned above and explained below can be used not only in the specified combinations, but also in other combinations or on their own, without departing from the scope of the present invention; unless combinations of the embodiments or individual features are described merely as alternatives or are mutually exclusive. Features of the composite pane and the manufacturing method are also included here. The invention is explained in more detail below with reference to drawings and exemplary embodiments. The drawings are purely schematic representations and are not to scale. The drawings and exemplary embodiments do not limit the invention in any way. They show

[0060] Fig. 1 shows a cross section through a composite pane in the area of ​​the electrical

[0061] Functional element as foil;

[0062] Fig. 2 shows a cross section through a composite pane in the area of ​​the electrical

[0063] functional element in a second embodiment;

[0064] Fig. 3 a cross section through a composite pane in the area of ​​the electrical

[0065] functional element in a third embodiment;

[0066] Fig. 4a-c Designs of a vehicle roof composite pane,

[0067] Fig. 5 is a schematic plan view of an electrical functional element designed as an operating device,

[0068] Fig. 6 is a schematic plan view of a composite pane according to the invention.

[0069] Fig. 1 shows a cross-section through a composite pane 1 in a region which contains an electrical functional element 10 in film form. The composite pane 1 has an outer pane 2 with an outer side I and an inner side II and an inner pane 3 with an outer side III and an inner side IV, which are connected to one another via a thermoplastic intermediate layer 4. The electrical functional element 10 in this embodiment is designed as a film, i.e. as a functional film, which is embedded between the intermediate layer 4 and the outer side III of the inner pane 3. In one embodiment, the film has at least one functional surface with a functional layer with at least one electrical component and a decorative layer is formed on the film (not shown separately). The electrical component is part of the functional layer. The functional film is preferably a polyester or polycarbonate film.For example, the entire surface or a portion of the film, on the functional surface and / or on the surface of the film opposite the functional surface, can be provided with a decorative or functional decoration, for example with color, graphics, text, symbols or patterns. The decorative layer can be applied prior to, at the same time as, or subsequently to the production, for example printing, of the electrical components. For example, graphics and conductor tracks can be screen printed using known functional inks on thin polyester or polycarbonate films. Furthermore, it is possible to apply desired or required decorative elements to a carrier film using screen or digital printing and to bond this decorative film to the functional film before or during lamination to form the composite pane 1.In other words, the functional film and the decorative film can be inserted into the stacking sequence for lamination as a film composite or as individual functional and decorative films arranged one above the other. An analogous procedure is known in the field of in-mold decoration of integrated electronic (IME) components, although according to the invention the molding and back-injection of the films is replaced by the lamination process. Thus, sub-steps of these known processes can be advantageously combined with one another or used in a complementary manner. The electrical functional element 10 can, for example, be produced and provided as a film-shaped, integrated operating device with a decorative, visually appealing and intuitively operable operating interface (decorative layer), for example with touch buttons (touch switches) or sliders (sliding switches), as shown schematically in Figure 5.The decorative layer is therefore appropriately applied to the functional film of the electrical functional element 10 on the side facing a viewer and, if applicable, potential operator (operating side) and is arranged in the composite pane 1, for example, toward a vehicle interior. The electrical functional element 10 is connected to a control unit 6 or the on-board electronics via connecting lines 5, for example, via bus bars.

[0070] Fig. 2 shows a cross-section through a composite pane 1 in the region of the electrical functional element 10 in another embodiment, in which, in a modification to the embodiment shown in Fig. 1, an electrical module 7 is arranged as a 3D component on the functional surface of a functional film and is functionally connected. Such a module 7 can, for example, be a SIP chip, which is arranged in a recess, for example a hole in the inner pane 3. In this case, various chips are combined in a package to form a complete electronic system (SiP). This again contributes to an advantageous reduction in components when integrating multiple functions into a composite pane. Furthermore, in this embodiment, two functional layers 8a, 8b are arranged spatially behind the electrical functional element 10 in the direction of view from the inner pane 3 to the outer pane 2.These functional layers 8a, 8b can be, for example, infrared radiation-shielding layers or UV-protective layers, which protect the electrical functional element 10 from the harmful effects of sunlight and can also advantageously improve climate comfort, for example, for vehicle occupants. Furthermore, in the embodiment shown, a further functional layer 9, for example a low-E layer, is arranged on the inner side IV of the inner pane 3 as a heat protection layer.

[0071] Fig. 3 shows a cross-section through a composite pane 1 with an electrical functional element 10 which is integrated into a recess in the inner pane 3. The functional element 10 can in particular be an in-mold electronics (IME) component (7b). This can be adapted in its geometric shape (for example in the curvature) and design to the composite pane and the recess of the inner pane, flush with the inner side IV of the inner pane 3, so that an attractively flat, uniform surface is created for an observer. For example, the functional element 10 can be an operating device. Advantageously, IME components can be provided with such a low installation height and, thanks to their robust, temperature-stable construction, can be easily integrated into the composite pane 1 in a lamination process.The placement of the electrical functional element 10 can be chosen very flexibly, not only in this embodiment, so that, depending on the functionality provided, for example, good accessibility and operability can be ensured. The IM E component 7b can comprise, in a single unit, not only elements of an operating device but also one or more additional electrical modules, such as lighting elements, such as reading lamps, or sensors or other functional elements.

[0072] Figs. 4a-c show embodiments of a composite pane 1 according to the invention as vehicle roof glazing 100 in a top view of the outer pane 2. In Fig. 4a, an integrated electrical functional element 10, for example an IME component, designed as an operating device, is arranged between the driver and front passenger. In Fig. 4b, for example, a first operating device 10a is arranged between the driver and front passenger. A second operating device 10b and a third operating device 10c are arranged in the outer region of the rear seats. This arrangement 10b and 10c is particularly suitable for an operating device with an integrated reading lamp. In Fig. 4c, a first operating device 10a is arranged in a more central position of the roof pane 100 between the driver and front passenger and the passenger row (rear seat bench).This ensures accessibility for all vehicle occupants, if necessary. A second operating device 10b and a third operating device 10c are arranged in the outer area of ​​the rear seats. This arrangement 10b and 10c is particularly suitable for an operating device with an integrated reading lamp. The operating device can be arranged either in an edge area of ​​the composite pane 1 or in a central area of ​​the composite pane 1. This makes it possible to enable optimal positioning for operation by a user. Fig. 5 shows a schematic plan view of an electrical functional element 10 designed as an operating device 10a. The electronic component of the functional layer is then, for example, part of an operating element.For the purposes of this invention, a control element is understood to be an area of ​​the user interface that is designed to execute a switching function by pressing (touch button 11a) or pressing and a sliding movement (sliding switch / slider 11b). Such control elements and their possible design and function are known per se.

[0073] Fig. 6 shows a top view of a composite pane 1 according to the invention in a configuration as a windshield 200, for example, a panoramic windshield. The integrated electrical functional element 10 is arranged in the installed position in the upper, roof-side edge region of the windshield 200, centrally between the driver and front passenger, and can be configured, for example, as an operating device. Advantageously, the electrical functional element 10 can be designed in a wide range of variations in terms of spatial-geometric dimensions, as well as in functional and decorative respects. Thus, it can be flexibly adapted to a wide variety of functional needs, as well as to aesthetic requirements, demands, and desires.The functional element 10 can be laminated to the outside, covered and protected from UV light by a cover print 12, for example a black edge-side cover print 12, which is preferably applied to the inner side II of the outer pane 2.

[0074] The invention provides a compact process for the series production of laminated panes with integrated functional elements in a high-quality, visually appealing design. The invention makes it possible to integrate, for example, high-quality control panels, beautifully designed control, switching, and monitoring elements into the laminated pane with a wide range of functions and a high degree of design freedom.

[0075] List of reference symbols

[0076] 1 composite pane

[0077] 2 outer pane

[0078] 3 inner pane

[0079] 4 Intermediate layer

[0080] 5 Connection element (e.g. busbars, busbars)

[0081] 6 Control unit / on-board electronics

[0082] 7 electrical module, in particular electrical 3D component

[0083] 7a System-in-Package (SiP)

[0084] 7b IME component

[0085] 8, 8a, 8b functional layers (IRR / UV protection),

[0086] 9 additional functional layers, Low-E layer

[0087] 10 electrical functional element

[0088] 10a, 10b, 10c electrical functional element (operating device)

[0089] 11a Touch button

[0090] 11b Slider

[0091] 12 Cover print

[0092] 100 roof pane (composite pane 1)

[0093] 200 Windshield (laminated glass 1)

[0094] I Outside of the outer pane

[0095] 11 Inside of the outer pane

[0096] III Outside of the inner pane

[0097] IV Inside of the inner pane

Claims

Composite pane (1), in particular for a vehicle, with an outer pane (2) with an outer side (I) and an inner side (II) and an inner pane (3) with an outer side (III) and an inner side (IV), which are connected to one another via a thermoplastic intermediate layer (4), wherein at least one electrical functional element (10) is integrated in the composite pane (1), which • at least one film with at least one functional surface, on which at least one functional layer with at least one electrical component is arranged, wherein at least one electrical module (7) is formed on the functional surface and / or a decorative layer is formed on the film, and / or which • is or comprises at least one in-mold electronics (IME) component (7b), wherein the electrical module (7) or the IM E component (7b) is arranged at least partially in a recess, cutout or in a cutback of the inner pane (3) and / or the intermediate layer (4) prefabricated for this purpose. Composite pane (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the electrical functional element (10) is formed with conductor tracks, electrical circuits, operating elements, sensors, antennas and / or integrated circuits and / or is connected thereto. Composite pane (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the electrical module (7) is a surface-mounted electrical component (SMD) selected from the group integrated circuit, resistor, capacitor.Composite pane according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the electrical module (7) is a system-in-package (SiP) (7a) or a system-on-chip (SoC), wherein the chip is arranged in a recess, a cutout, or a recess in the inner pane (3) and / or the intermediate layer (4). Composite pane (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the electrical functional element (10) is at least one in-mold electronics (IME) component (7b). Composite pane according to claim 5, characterized in that the in-mold electronics (IME) component (7b) is arranged in a recess prefabricated for this purpose or in a cutout of the inner pane (3). Composite pane (1) according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the electrical functional element (10) is connected via a connection (5), in particular a data connection, to a control unit (6) and / or the on-board electronics, in particular the vehicle electronics. Composite pane (1) according to one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that it contains at least one electrically switchable layer that is functionally connected to the electrical functional element (10), in particular a PDLC layer, LC layer, an electrochromic layer, a luminescent layer, or a layer with SPD or guest host technology.Composite pane (1) according to one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the electrical functional element (10) is functionally connected to at least one electrically switchable component or module, in particular to electrical circuits, operating elements, sensors, antennas, imaging and image-recording or acoustic modules, or lighting elements.Composite pane (1) according to one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that it comprises one or more functional layers (8), in particular an infrared-reflecting layer (8a), an infrared-absorbing layer, a low-E layer (9), a UV-reflecting layer (8b) and / or a UV-absorbing layer, and / or the intermediate layer (4) is or comprises a functional intermediate layer, in particular with acoustically damping properties, a wedge-shaped intermediate layer, an at least partially colored intermediate layer and / or an at least partially tinted intermediate layer. Method for producing a composite pane (1) according to one of claims 1 to 10, comprising the steps. A) Providing at least one electrical functional element (10), wherein the functional element (10) has at least one film, in particular a PE / PC film, with at least one functional surface on which at least one functional layer is arranged with at least one electrical component, wherein at least one electrical module (7) is formed on the functional surface and / or a decorative layer is formed on the film, and / or the electrical functional element (10) is or comprises at least one IM E component (7b), B) Providing a stacking sequence comprising an outer pane (2), an inner pane (3), at least one thermoplastic film arranged therebetween to form the thermoplastic intermediate layer (4) and the at least one electrical functional element (10), wherein the at least one electrical functional element (10) is arranged in the stacking sequence such that the electrical module (7) or the IME component (7b) is arranged at least partially in a recess, cutout or in a cutback of the inner pane (3) and / or the intermediate layer (4) prefabricated for this purpose, C) Laminating the stack sequence to form a composite pane (1). A method for producing a composite pane (1) according to claim 11, wherein the electrical functional element (10) is formed or connected to a system-in-package (SiP) chip (7a) or a system-on-chip (SoC), and wherein this chip is arranged in a recess, cutout, or cutback of the inner pane (3) and / or the intermediate layer (4).Method for producing a composite pane (1) according to one of claims 11 or 12, characterized in that at least one electrically switchable layer, in particular a switchable liquid crystal layer and / or one or more functional layers (8, 8a, 8b), in particular an infrared radiation-reflecting layer (8a), an infrared radiation-absorbing layer, a UV radiation-reflecting, a UV radiation-absorbing and / or a low-E layer, an intermediate layer (4) with acoustically damping properties, or an at least partially colored intermediate layer and / or an at least partially tinted intermediate layer, are formed.Method for producing a composite pane (1) according to one of claims 11 to 13, wherein the electrical functional element (10) is connected via connections (5), bus bars, in particular CAN bus, LIN bus, MOST bus, Flex-Ray or automotive Ethernet to one or more further electrical functional elements, electrically switchable layers, to a control unit (6) and / or the on-board electronics. Use of a composite pane (1) according to one of claims 1 to 10 in vehicles for traffic on land, in the air or on water, in particular for motor vehicles, in particular as a roof pane (100), windscreen (200) or side window.

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