Glazing element with electric functional element

Abstract

The invention relates to a glazing element, comprising a glass pane (1) or plastic panel and an encapsulating layer (2) on the surface of the glass pane (1) or plastic panel. The encapsulating layer (2) is formed as a layer (2a) of an optically clear adhesive at least in some regions, and an electric functional element (3) is arranged between the layer (2a) of the optically clear adhesive and the glass pane (1) or plastic panel or is incorporated into the layer (2a) of the optically clear adhesive.

Description

[0001] Glazing element with electrical functional element

[0002] The invention relates to a glazing element with an integrated electrical functional element, a method for its production and its use.

[0003] It is known that glazing elements can be equipped with electrical functional elements. These glazing elements are usually designed as laminated panes, consisting of two glass panes and a thermoplastic intermediate layer between them, with the functional element embedded in the intermediate layer. The intermediate layer is often formed from at least two thermoplastic films, particularly PVB films, between which the functional element is positioned and thus embedded in the intermediate layer. Such laminated panes with integrated functional elements are particularly common in vehicle windows, for example, as windshields or roof windows.The electrical functional elements can be, for example, sensors of various types (such as light sensors or rain sensors), light-emitting diodes, or functional films with electrically controllable optical properties, with which, in particular, the transparency of the laminated pane can be electrically controlled. Examples of these are SPD, PDLC, or electrochromic functional films. Laminated panes of this type are known, for example, from WO2014029536A1, WO2014086555A1, or WO2017157626A1.

[0004] The laminated panes are typically manufactured using so-called autoclave processes, in which the glass panes are laminated together via the thermoplastic interlayer at high temperatures and high pressure. These conditions place a high stress on the typically sensitive electrical components. For example, optical distortions can occur due to tension or even damage the components.

[0005] There is therefore a need for glazing elements and methods of manufacturing them which have integrated electrical functional elements, ensuring high optical quality, protecting the functional elements from damage and which can be manufactured in a manner which is gentle on the functional element.

[0006] US20180155575A1 discloses a glazing element in which an electrical functional element is attached to a glass pane via an adhesive layer made of an optically clear adhesive (OCA). The adhesive layer is thus arranged between the glass pane and the functional element.

[0007] The present invention is based on the object of providing an improved glazing element with an integrated electrical functional element and a gentle process for its production. The glazing element should have high optical quality and the functional element should be protected from damage.

[0008] The object of the present invention is achieved by a glazing element according to claim 1. Preferred embodiments emerge from the subclaims.

[0009] The glazing element according to the invention comprises at least one glass pane or plastic pane and an encapsulating layer on a surface of the glass pane or plastic pane. The encapsulating layer is formed, at least in some regions, as a layer of an optically clear adhesive. An electrical functional element is arranged between the layer of optically clear adhesive and the glass pane or plastic pane or embedded in the layer of optically clear adhesive.

[0010] The layer of optically clear adhesive allows the functional element to be embedded into the glazing element with high optical quality. The functional element is mechanically stable and integrated into the glazing element and protected from damage by external influences. The layer of optically clear adhesive can be produced using a casting process, which is gentle on the functional element because it does not involve the high pressures or temperatures typical of laminated glass (especially in autoclave processes). These are major advantages of the present invention.

[0011] For the sake of simplicity, the glass or plastic pane will hereinafter be referred to simply as the "pane" or "primary pane" (to distinguish it from any other panes of the glazing element). The glass or plastic pane has two main surfaces, which are intended for viewing and are arranged essentially parallel to one another, and a side edge surface running between them. The encapsulating layer is arranged on one of the main surfaces of the pane, in particular over its entire surface. The pane can be flat or curved, with both cylindrical and spherical bends being possible. Spherically curved glazing elements are typically used in the automotive sector, while flat glazing elements are predominantly used in the architectural sector. Both flat and curved glazing elements are common in rail vehicles, ships, and large construction or agricultural vehicles.

[0012] The primary function of the capsule layer is to securely and mechanically integrate the functional element into the glazing element and protect it from damage. The capsule layer can also perform other functions, such as connecting the glass or plastic pane to another glass or plastic pane (like a laminated pane), if such an additional pane is required. In particular, the capsule layer covers the entire surface (main area) of the glass or plastic pane.

[0013] The capsule layer is formed at least in part as a layer of an optically clear adhesive. This means that there is at least one region of the glazing element in which the capsule layer is formed by the said layer of optically clear adhesive, namely across its entire thickness. The capsule layer can be formed entirely as a layer of the optically clear adhesive. However, it is also possible for only one region or several regions of the capsule layer to be formed as a layer of the optically clear adhesive, while another region or several other regions are formed in a different way, for example by a thermoplastic film. In other words, the capsule layer is formed in some regions as a layer of the optically clear adhesive and in some regions in a different way, in particular from at least one thermoplastic film.The areas are arranged next to each other in relation to the viewing direction through the glazing element. The layer of optically clear adhesive and any additional elements (e.g., thermoplastic films) each extend across the entire thickness of the encapsulating layer. The areas with the layer of optically clear adhesive are transparent (i.e., allow viewing through), while the other areas can be transparent or opaque.

[0014] The capsule layer preferably has a thickness of 0.2 mm to 50 mm, particularly preferably 0.5 mm to 2 mm.

[0015] Optically clear adhesives (OCAs) are known as such to those skilled in the art. They are characterized in particular by their high optical quality. They are particularly common where high optical quality is necessary, so that the adhesive layer is virtually invisible, for example, in displays or touch panels. Optically clear adhesives are characterized in particular by their high light transmission and the fact that low-distortion viewing is possible. For the sake of simplicity, the layer of an optically clear adhesive according to the invention will also be referred to below as an OCA layer.

[0016] The optically clear adhesive is preferably a 2-component polyurethane adhesive, a 1-component acrylate adhesive, a 1-component silicone adhesive or a 1-component acrylate hybrid adhesive.

[0017] The external surfaces of the glazing element are formed parallel to one another, so that the glazing element has a constant overall thickness. The external surfaces of the glazing element can be formed from the opposite surfaces of the glass or plastic pane and the encapsulating layer if the glazing element is structurally constructed only from the glass or plastic pane and the encapsulating layer. Additional glass or plastic panes can also be connected to said glass or plastic panes and / or the encapsulating layer, which in turn then support the external surfaces of the glazing element, as will be explained in more detail below when presenting the preferred embodiments.The external surfaces are the exposed surfaces of the glazing element that are in contact with the surrounding atmosphere and can be touched. It is not excluded that the external surfaces are provided with transparent coatings, in particular formed from thin films. The encapsulating layer also has two main surfaces intended for transparency and a side edge surface extending between them. The main surfaces are arranged parallel to the main surfaces of the primary pane (and also to the main surfaces of any other panes of the glazing element).

[0018] The electrical functional element can be attached to the surface of the primary pane, for example, via an adhesive or a thermoplastic film. It is then arranged between the OCA layer and the primary pane. Alternatively, the functional element can be embedded in the OCA layer so that it is completely surrounded by the optically clear adhesive. In either case, the glazing element comprises the primary pane, the electrical functional element on a surface of the primary pane, and optically clear adhesive (the entire OCA layer or part thereof) above the electrical functional element, i.e., on the side of the functional element facing away from the primary pane.

[0019] In a first basic embodiment of the glazing element, the surface of the capsule layer facing away from the primary pane forms one of the two external or exposed surfaces of the glazing element. In other words, the capsule layer is an external layer of the glazing element whose surface facing away from the primary pane is not connected to another structural element, in particular another glass or plastic pane. Such a glazing element has an advantageously low weight.

[0020] In the first basic embodiment, the capsule layer is preferably formed entirely as a layer of optically clear adhesive. In an advantageous further development, a transparent protective coating is arranged on the external surface of the capsule layer or the OCA layer facing away from the primary pane. The protective coating serves in particular to protect the OCA layer from scratching (scratch protection layer).

[0021] The invention also comprises a method for producing the glazing element according to the first basic embodiment, wherein

[0022] (a) the primary disc and a support disc are arranged parallel and spaced apart from each other so that a cavity is formed between them,

[0023] (b) the cavity is then provided with an edge seal,

[0024] (c) an optically clear adhesive is then filled into the cavity and cured, and

[0025] (d) the support disc is then removed again.

[0026] Before process step (a), the functional element is arranged on the surface of the primary disk facing the support disk (preferably fixed with an adhesive or a thermoplastic film) or arranged in the cavity, spaced apart from both the primary disk and the support disk and not in direct contact with either. The support disk can be made of glass, plastic, ceramic, metal, or wood, for example, i.e., it can be a glass disk, a plastic disk, a ceramic disk, a metal plate, or a wooden plate.

[0027] In principle, it is not necessary to use a support disc in the narrow sense of a disc- or plate-like object. In general, any support mold can be used, with the surface of the support mold facing the primary disc and the cavity, and which determines the shape of the surface of the capsule layer facing away from the primary disc, being parallel to the main surfaces of the primary disc. However, the use of a support disc is preferred, particularly because they are easy to handle and the same manufacturing equipment can be used as in the production of the glazing element according to the second basic embodiment (where the secondary disc is used instead of the support disc).

[0028] In an advantageous embodiment of the method, a layer (separating layer) is arranged on the surface of the support disk facing the primary disk. This layer is suitable for preventing adhesion between the support disk and the optically clear plastic. This facilitates the removal of the support disk after the adhesive has cured. The separating layer is preferably a Teflon layer permanently applied to the surface of the support disk or a Teflon film applied to the surface of the support disk.

[0029] In a second basic design of the glazing element, the capsule layer is arranged between the primary pane and another glass or plastic pane. This additional glass or plastic pane, connected to the capsule layer, is also referred to below as the "secondary pane." The capsule layer connects the primary pane to the secondary pane in the manner of a laminated pane. This design can advantageously offer greater mechanical stability, and the capsule layer is protected from damage between the primary pane and the secondary pane. Furthermore, the glazing element has a greater structural similarity to a conventional laminated pane, so that it is sometimes better accepted by customers and can more easily replace conventional laminated panes.

[0030] The invention also includes a method for producing the glazing element according to the second basic embodiment, wherein (a) the primary pane and the secondary pane are arranged parallel and spaced from each other so that (at least) one cavity is formed between them,

[0031] (b) the cavity is then provided with an edge seal,

[0032] (c) an optically clear adhesive is subsequently poured into the cavity and cured. Before process step (a), the functional element is arranged on the surface of the primary disc facing the secondary disc (preferably fixed with an adhesive or a thermoplastic film) or arranged in the cavity, spaced apart from both the primary disc and the secondary disc and not in direct contact with either.

[0033] The secondary pane can be the only structural element located on the surface of the capsule layer facing away from the primary pane. In other words, the glazing element contains the primary pane, the capsule layer on top of it, and a single pane (namely, the secondary pane) on top of it. In this case, the surface of the secondary pane facing away from the capsule layer is one of the two external or exposed surfaces of the glazing element. The secondary pane, if formed as a glass pane, is preferably thermally tempered.

[0034] The secondary pane can alternatively be bonded to another glass or plastic pane via a thermoplastic intermediate layer. More specifically, the surface of the secondary pane facing away from the encapsulating layer is bonded to the other glass or plastic pane via the intermediate layer. In other words, the glazing element comprises the primary pane, the encapsulating layer thereon, and a composite pane constructed from the secondary pane, another pane, and a thermoplastic intermediate layer located therebetween, with the secondary pane facing the encapsulating layer. In this case, the surface of said other pane facing away from the secondary pane and the thermoplastic intermediate layer is one of the two external or exposed surfaces of the glazing element.

[0035] If the secondary pane is to be bonded to another pane via a thermoplastic intermediate layer as described above, the composite pane consisting of the secondary pane, intermediate layer, and another pane is preferably produced prior to the process described above, in which the encapsulation layer is formed between the primary pane and the secondary pane. Known processes can be used to produce the composite pane, for example, autoclave processes, vacuum bag processes, vacuum ring processes, calender processes, vacuum laminators, or combinations thereof. The bonding of the panes via the intermediate layer is typically carried out under the influence of heat, vacuum, and / or pressure.

[0036] In principle, the secondary pane can also be part of a composite pane consisting of more than two panes, with at least one further pane being mounted on the side of the additional pane facing away from the secondary pane. Adjacent panes are each connected to each other via a thermoplastic interlayer. The surface of the pane facing away from the secondary pane furthest from the secondary pane forms one of the two external or exposed surfaces of the glazing element.

[0037] The secondary pane can also be connected to another glass or plastic pane via a spacer to form an insulating glazing, with the space between the panes being filled with an inert gas or evacuated.

[0038] In a first variant of the second basic embodiment, the capsule layer is formed entirely as a layer of the optically clear adhesive. In a second variant of the second basic embodiment, the capsule layer is formed in regions as a layer of the optically clear adhesive and in regions from at least one thermoplastic film (i.e., from a thermoplastic film or a stack of several thermoplastic films). The capsule layer thus has at least one region in which it is formed as an OCA layer over its entire thickness and at least one further region in which it is formed from the at least one thermoplastic film over its entire thickness.

[0039] Said second variant of the second basic embodiment can be particularly advantageous if the functional element or functional elements are integrated only in local areas of the glazing element, while other areas have no functional element or are equipped with less sensitive functional elements. The capsule layer can then be formed with the OCA layer according to the invention in the areas with the functional element, and via the at least one thermoplastic film in the areas without a functional element or with the less sensitive functional elements (in the latter case, said less sensitive functional elements can, for example, be embedded between two thermoplastic films). In this way, the glazing element can sometimes be manufactured more cost-effectively because the entire capsule layer is not formed by the comparatively expensive optically clear adhesive.It is possible for the glazing element to have at least one transparent see-through area and at least one opaque masking area. In this case, it may be preferred if the encapsulation layer is formed as an OCA layer with the functional element in the see-through area and from the thermoplastic film in the masking area. Such a masking area can be realized, for example, by an opaque cover print on one of the panes of the glazing element or by using an opaque thermoplastic film.

[0040] During the production of such a glazing element, the primary pane and the secondary pane are preferably first joined to one another locally via the thermoplastic film. Known processes can be used for this, for example autoclave processes, vacuum bag processes, vacuum ring processes, calender processes, vacuum laminators or combinations thereof. The connection is made, for example, locally via one or more strips of the thermoplastic film. The panes are usually joined under the influence of heat, vacuum and / or pressure. This corresponds to process step (a) in the process described above: the primary pane and secondary pane are then arranged parallel and spaced from one another, with at least one cavity being formed in the area or areas without a thermoplastic film.This cavity must not be closed, meaning the thermoplastic film must not extend all the way around the cavity. The space between the panes is then provided with an edge seal (process step (b)), and an optically clear adhesive is poured into the at least one cavity and cured (process step (c)). The functional element is either previously arranged in the at least one cavity or affixed to the surface of the primary pane via the thermoplastic film prior to lamination.

[0041] The primary pane may be the only pane attached to the corresponding side of the capsule layer. In other words, the glazing element comprises a single pane (namely the primary pane), the capsule layer, and optionally the secondary pane (which may also be a single pane or connected to one or more other panes, as described above). In this case, the surface of the primary pane facing away from the capsule layer is one of the two external or exposed surfaces of the glazing element. The primary pane, if formed as a glass pane, is preferably thermally toughened.

[0042] The primary pane can alternatively be connected to another glass or plastic pane via a thermoplastic intermediate layer. More specifically, the surface of the primary pane facing away from the encapsulating layer is connected to the other glass or plastic pane via the intermediate layer. In other words, the glazing element comprises a composite pane constructed from the primary pane, another pane, and a thermoplastic intermediate layer therebetween, with the encapsulating layer on top of the primary pane and, optionally, the secondary pane (which can also be a single pane or connected to one or more other panes, as described above) on top of the composite pane. In this case, the surface of said other pane facing away from the primary pane and the thermoplastic intermediate layer is one of the two external or exposed surfaces of the glazing element.

[0043] If the primary pane is to be bonded to another pane via a thermoplastic intermediate layer as described above, the composite pane consisting of the primary pane, intermediate layer, and another pane is preferably manufactured using the processes described above, in which the encapsulation layer is formed between the primary pane and the support pane or secondary pane. Known processes can be used to manufacture the composite pane, for example, autoclave processes, vacuum bag processes, vacuum ring processes, calender processes, vacuum laminators, or combinations thereof. The bonding of the panes via the intermediate layer is typically performed under the influence of heat, vacuum, and / or pressure.

[0044] In principle, the primary pane can also be part of a composite pane consisting of more than two panes, with at least one further pane being mounted on the side of the additional pane facing away from the secondary pane. Adjacent panes are each connected to each other via a thermoplastic interlayer. The surface of the pane furthest from the primary pane facing away from the primary pane forms one of the two external or exposed surfaces of the glazing element.

[0045] The primary pane can also be connected to another glass or plastic pane via a spacer to form an insulating glazing, with the space between the panes being filled with an inert gas or evacuated.

[0046] The following explanations of the manufacturing process refer equally to the processes for manufacturing the glazing element according to the two basic designs.

[0047] The cavity between the primary disc and the support disc or secondary disc is formed by the space between said discs when they are arranged parallel and spaced from one another (or a part thereof when the two discs (in particular primary disc and secondary disc) are additionally locally connected to one another via a thermoplastic film). This cavity is provided with an edge seal. The edge seal runs circumferentially along the side edge surfaces of the pair of discs and (partially) closes off the cavity, leaving at least one opening through which the optically clear adhesive can subsequently be filled, preferably via a nozzle. The edge seal can, for example, be designed as an adhesive tape which is attached to the side edge surfaces of the two discs.Alternatively, the pair of panes can be inserted into a suitable mold, which serves as an edge seal. The edge seal can alternatively be formed, for example, from a longitudinally slit tube that is slipped over the edge area of ​​the pair of panes, with the edge area being positioned in the slot (similar to the tube used in the vacuum ring process for producing laminated panes).

[0048] When manufacturing the second basic design of the glazing element, it is not necessary to use an edge seal that is later removed. Instead, an edge seal can be used that is arranged between the primary pane and the secondary pane in the edge area and remains permanently in the glazing element. Such a permanent edge seal can be made of PVB or polyurethane, for example. If the functional element is arranged on the surface of the primary pane, it is arranged between the primary pane and the capsule layer after the capsule layer has been formed. The functional element can be fixed to the surface, for example, using an adhesive or a thermoplastic film. If the primary pane is arranged below the support pane or secondary pane, the functional element can also simply be placed on the surface.If the functional element is arranged within the cavity, spaced from both discs, it is embedded in the capsule layer after the formation of the capsule layer. The functional element can be arranged in the cavity, for example, using suitable support elements or suspensions (e.g. made of threads, rods, or a grid), by means of which the functional element is held in place (spaced from both discs) as long as the optically clear adhesive is still liquid. The support elements or suspensions can be removed, for example, when the viscosity of the adhesive has decreased sufficiently to fix the functional element, but is still sufficiently high that non-destructive removal of the support elements or suspension is possible.However, the support elements or elements of the suspension can also remain in the glazing element, in particular if they are arranged in an opaque area of ​​the glazing element, which is formed, for example, by an opaque cover print on a surface of at least one of the panes of the glazing element.

[0049] The optically clear adhesive is poured into the cavity in liquid form (LOCA; LOCA liquid adhesive) and then cured. The primary disc and the secondary disc, or the support disc, can be arranged horizontally or vertically when the adhesive is poured in. Curing of the optically clear adhesive can occur in any manner and depends on the type of adhesive used. For example, UV-curing or thermally curing adhesives can be used. Two-component adhesives, which cure through chemical reactions, can also be used.

[0050] In an advantageous embodiment, the functional element is provided pre-encapsulated in optically clear adhesive. A layer of optically clear adhesive is thus provided, into which the functional element is embedded, such that at least the surface of the functional element facing the primary disc and the surface of the functional element facing away from the primary disc is coated with optically clear adhesive, and preferably the functional element is completely surrounded by optically clear adhesive. The functional element pre-encapsulated in this way is then arranged on the surface of the primary disc (preferably fixed with an adhesive or a thermoplastic film) or arranged in the cavity, and the cavity is subsequently filled with optically clear adhesive. The same optically clear adhesive is preferably used for pre-encapsulating the functional element and filling the cavity.

[0051] To produce the pre-encapsulation, the functional element can be arranged in a hollow mold (for example, using support elements or suspensions). This hollow mold is then filled with optically clear adhesive, and the adhesive is then cured. The surface of the hollow mold facing the functional element is preferably provided with a release layer (for example, coated with Teflon) to facilitate removal of the pre-encapsulated functional element. For removal, the pre-encapsulated functional element can, for example, simply be pulled out of the hollow mold or the hollow mold can be opened.

[0052] In a preferred embodiment of the glazing element according to the invention, the electrical functional element is a functional film with electrically controllable optical properties. Such functional films are generally constructed as a multilayer film comprising a first carrier film, a first surface electrode, an active layer or layer sequence, a second surface electrode, and a second carrier film, which are arranged flat on top of one another in the specified order. The carrier films are made, for example, from polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and have a thickness of 0.1 mm to 1 mm, preferably 0.1 mm to 0.5 mm. The surface electrodes are formed, for example, as layers based on a metal (in particular silver) or a transparent electrically conductive oxide (transparent conductive oxide, TCO; in particular indium tin oxide (ITO)) with a thickness of 10 nm to 2 pm, preferably 20 nm to 1 pm.The active layer or layer sequence depends on the type of functional film. It exhibits electrically controllable optical properties, which can be controlled by applying a voltage to the surface electrodes.

[0053] The functional film can be an SPD film. SPD functional films contain an active layer between the surface electrodes, which contains suspended particles, preferably embedded in a viscous matrix. The absorption of light by the active layer can be modified by applying a voltage to the surface electrodes, which leads to a change in the orientation of the suspended particles.

[0054] The functional film can be a film based on liquid crystal technology. Such functional films contain an active layer with liquid crystals. The liquid crystals can be aligned by applying a voltage to the surface electrodes, on which the electrical control of the optical properties is based. The functional film can be, for example, a PDLC film. In this case, the active layer contains droplets of liquid crystals in a polymer network. If the liquid crystals are aligned in an electric field, the state is transparent and does not scatter light; if the liquid crystals are not aligned without an electric field, the state is translucent and strongly scatters light. Alternatively, the functional film can be, for example, a so-called guest-host film. In this case, the active layer contains dichroic dye molecules (guest) dissolved in liquid crystals (host).In the electric field, the liquid crystals are aligned, which influences the orientation of the dye molecules, resulting in a change in transmittance (tint) and color. Experience has shown that guest-host films are particularly sensitive, so the present invention particularly demonstrates its advantages in this area.

[0055] The functional film can be an electrochromic film. Electrochromic functional films contain an active layer sequence between the surface electrodes (electrochromic layer sequence), which comprises, arranged one above the other in the specified order, an ion storage layer, an electrolyte layer, and an electrochromic layer. The electrochromic layer is the actual carrier of the electrically controllable optical properties. It is an electrochemically active layer whose light transmission depends on the degree of ion incorporation. The ions (for example, H + -, Li+ , That +- or IC ions) are stored in the ion storage layer and made available by it. The electrolyte layer spatially separates the electrochromic layer from the ion storage layer and serves to facilitate the migration of ions. If a direct voltage of suitable polarity is applied to the surface electrodes, ions migrate from the ion storage layer through the electrolyte layer into the electrochromic layer, whereupon the optical properties (color, light transmission) of the electrochromic layer change depending on the extent of the migrated ions. If a direct voltage of the opposite polarity is applied to the surface electrodes, the ions migrate back from the electrochromic layer through the electrolyte layer into the ion storage layer, and the optical properties of the electrochromic layer change in the opposite way. If no voltage is applied to the surface electrodes, the current state remains stable.Suitable electrochromic layers contain electrochromic materials, for example, inorganic oxides (such as tungsten oxide or vanadium oxide), complex compounds (such as Prussian blue), or conductive polymers (such as 3,4-polyethylenedioxythiophene (PEDOT) or polyaniline). The electrolyte layer is typically formed as a film of organic or inorganic, electrically insulating material with high ionic conductivity, for example, based on lithium phosphorus oxynitride. The ion storage layer is either permanently transparent (pure ion storage) or exhibits electrochromic behavior opposite to that of the electrochromic layer. An example of a pure ion storage layer is a layer containing a mixed oxide of titanium and cerium; examples of anodic electrochromic ion storage layers are layers containing iridium oxide or nickel oxide.

[0056] In a further preferred embodiment of the glazing element according to the invention, the electrical functional element is a sensor. Examples of sensors include photodiodes (as light sensors), rain sensors (capacitive or optical), and temperature sensors.

[0057] In a further preferred embodiment of the glazing element according to the invention, the electrical functional element is a light source. Light-emitting diodes (LEDs) are particularly suitable.

[0058] If the glazing element comprises one or more glass panes, they are preferably made of soda-lime glass, as is common for window panes. In principle, however, other types of glass can also be used alternatively, for example quartz glass, borosilicate glass or aluminosilicate glass. If the glazing element comprises one or more plastic panes, they are preferably made of a transparent and rigid polymer, particularly preferably polycarbonate (PC) or polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA). These statements apply equally to the primary pane as well as any secondary pane and any further panes connected to the primary pane or the secondary pane. The material of the various panes can be selected independently of one another. All panes are preferably transparent.All discs have two main surfaces intended for viewing and arranged substantially parallel to each other, and a side edge surface extending therebetween. The thickness of the primary disc, any secondary disc, and any additional discs connected to the primary disc or the secondary disc is preferably between 0.5 mm and 5 mm.

[0059] The panes can be coated, for example, with an anti-reflective coating, an IR-reflecting coating, or a heatable coating. Plastic panes are preferably coated with a protective coating to protect them from scratches (scratch protection layer).

[0060] The panes can be clear, meaning they have no tints or colorings, or they can be tinted or colored. Particularly if the glazing element is intended as building glazing, the panes are preferably clear. For vehicle glazing, it may be preferable for at least one of the panes to be tinted or colored.

[0061] Thermoplastic films, which are used, for example, to laminate the primary pane and / or the secondary pane with another pane to form a composite pane (with the thermoplastic film forming the intermediate layer) or to partially bond the primary pane to the secondary pane, are preferably based on polyvinyl butyral (PVB), ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA), or polyurethane (PU), particularly preferably based on PVB. This means that the film predominantly contains the said material (a proportion of greater than 50% by weight) and can optionally contain other components, for example, plasticizers, stabilizers, UV or IR absorbers. The thickness of the thermoplastic films is preferably between 0.2 mm and 1 mm.

[0062] In addition to at least one transparent see-through area, the glazing element can optionally have at least one opaque masking area. Such a masking area is created in particular by integrating an opaque element into the glazing element, which prevents visibility. This is preferably an opaque masking print on at least one surface of at least one pane of the glazing element. In the case of a glass pane, prints of an enamel are common, which contains glass frits and a pigment (in particular black pigment) and which is fired into the glass surface. The invention also encompasses the use of a glazing element according to the invention in buildings or in means of transport for land, air, or water traffic, preferably as a vehicle window.The glazing element is preferably used in the vehicle or architectural sector, in particular as a window pane of a vehicle, a building or an interior, in furniture or other furnishings or as a furnishing item.

[0063] The invention is explained in more detail with reference to a drawing and exemplary embodiments. The drawing is a schematic representation and not to scale. The drawing does not limit the invention in any way. It shows:

[0064] Fig. 1 shows a cross section through a first embodiment of the inventive

[0065] glazing element,

[0066] Fig. 2 shows a cross section through a second embodiment of the inventive

[0067] glazing element,

[0068] Fig. 3 shows a cross section through a third embodiment of the inventive

[0069] glazing element,

[0070] Fig. 4 shows a cross section through a fourth embodiment of the inventive

[0071] glazing element,

[0072] Fig. 5 cross sections through an embodiment of the glazing element according to the invention at different times of an embodiment of the method according to the invention for its production,

[0073] Fig. 6 cross sections through an embodiment of the glazing element according to the invention at different times of a further embodiment of the method according to the invention for its production,

[0074] Fig. 7 Cross sections through an embodiment of the glazing element according to the invention at different times of a further embodiment of the method according to the invention for its production.

[0075] Figure 1 shows a cross-section through an embodiment of the glazing element according to the invention. The glazing element is formed from a single glass pane 1, with a capsule layer 2 arranged over the entire surface (main surface) of the glass pane 1. Three electrical functional elements 3 are arranged between the glass pane 1 and the capsule layer 2.

[0076] The glass pane 1 is, for example, a thermally toughened pane of soda-lime glass with a thickness of 3.5 mm. The encapsulation layer 2 is completely formed as layer 2a of an optically clear adhesive (OCA). The optically clear adhesive is, for example, a two-component polyurethane adhesive. The encapsulation layer has, for example, a thickness of 0.5 mm to 1 mm. The functional elements 3 are, for example, light-emitting diodes. The surface of the glass pane 1 facing away from the encapsulation layer 2 forms a first external surface I of the glazing element, while the surface of the encapsulation layer 2 facing away from the glass pane 1 forms a second external surface II. The external surfaces

[0077] I, II are completely parallel to each other.

[0078] The glazing element can, for example, be provided as a roof window of a vehicle, with the LEDs serving to illuminate the vehicle interior. Such a vehicle window is typically curved, although the glazing element is shown flat for simplicity.

[0079] Figure 2 shows a cross-section through a further embodiment of the glazing element according to the invention. The glazing element is formed from a composite pane consisting of a glass pane 1 (primary pane), another glass pane 5, and a thermoplastic intermediate layer 4 between them. A capsule layer 2 is arranged over the entire surface (main surface) of the glass pane 1. An electrical functional element 3 is embedded in the capsule layer 2.

[0080] The glass pane 1 and the further glass pane 5 are, for example, panes of soda-lime glass, each with a thickness of 2.1 mm. The encapsulation layer 2 is completely formed as layer 2a of an optically clear adhesive (OCA). The optically clear adhesive is, for example, a two-component polyurethane adhesive. The encapsulation layer has a thickness of, for example, 0.5 mm to 1 mm.

[0081] Functional element 3, for example, is a functional film with electrically controllable optical properties, which allows the transparency of the glazing element to be electrically controlled. It is completely surrounded by layer 2a of the optically clear adhesive.

[0082] The surface of the further glass pane 5 facing away from the capsule layer 2 and the glass pane 1 forms a first external surface I of the glazing element, the surface of the capsule layer 2 facing away from the glass pane 1 forms a second external surface

[0083] II. The external surfaces I, II are completely parallel to each other.

[0084] The glazing element can, for example, be provided as a roof window of a vehicle, the transparency of which can be reduced by means of the functional element 3 to avoid glare from sunlight or to slow down the heating of the interior. Such a vehicle window is typically curved, although the glazing element is shown flat for simplicity.

[0085] Figure 3 shows a cross-section through a further embodiment of the glazing element according to the invention. The glazing element comprises a glass pane 1 (primary pane), an encapsulating layer 2, another glass pane 6 (secondary pane), a thermoplastic intermediate layer 7, and another glass pane 8.

[0086] The glass pane 1 is, for example, a thermally toughened pane of soda-lime glass with a thickness of 3.5 mm. The other glass panes 6, 8 are, for example, panes of soda-lime glass, each with a thickness of 2.1 mm, which are laminated to form a composite pane via a PVB film with a thickness of 0.76 mm, which forms the intermediate layer 7. The encapsulation layer 2 is formed entirely as layer 2a of an optically clear adhesive (OCA). It is arranged between the glass pane 1 and the other glass pane 6 and connects the two. The optically clear adhesive is, for example, a two-component polyurethane adhesive.

[0087] A functional element 3 is arranged between the glass pane 1 and the capsule layer 2. The functional element 3 is connected to the surface of the glass pane 1, for example, with an adhesive layer (not shown). The functional element 3 is, for example, a functional film with electrically controllable optical properties, with which the transparency of the glazing element can be electrically controlled.

[0088] The surface of the glass pane 1 facing away from the capsule layer 2 forms a first external surface I of the glazing element, and the surface of the further glass pane 8 facing away from the further glass pane 6 forms a second external surface II. The external surfaces I, II are aligned completely parallel to one another.

[0089] This glazing element can also be used, for example, as a roof window for a vehicle.

[0090] Figure 4 shows a cross-section through a further embodiment of the glazing element according to the invention. This glazing element also comprises an encapsulating layer 2, which is arranged between a glass pane 1 (primary pane) and a further glass pane 6 (secondary pane) and connects the two to one another. The glass pane 1 is connected to a further glass pane 5 via a thermoplastic intermediate layer 4 to form a composite pane. Likewise, the further glass pane 6 is connected to a further glass pane 8 via a thermoplastic intermediate layer 7 to form a composite pane. All of the glass panes 1, 5, 6, 8 are, for example, panes made of soda-lime glass with a thickness of 2.1 mm each. The intermediate layers 4, 7 are each made, for example, from a PVB film with a thickness of 0.76 mm.

[0091] The capsule layer 2 is formed in some areas as a layer 2a of an optically clear adhesive (OCA) and in some areas as a thermoplastic film 2b. The thermoplastic film is, for example, a PVB film. The optically clear adhesive is, for example, a two-component polyurethane adhesive.

[0092] A functional element 3 is arranged between the glass pane 1 and each layer 2a of the optically clear adhesive. The functional elements 3 are bonded to the surface of the glass pane 1, for example, with an adhesive layer (not shown). The functional elements 3 are, for example, a functional film with electrically controllable optical properties, with which the transparency of the glazing element can be electrically controlled.

[0093] The surface of the further glass pane 5 facing away from the glass pane 1 forms a first external surface I of the glazing element, and the surface of the further glass pane 8 facing away from the further glass pane 6 forms a second external surface II. The external surfaces I, II are aligned completely parallel to one another.

[0094] This glazing element can also be provided, for example, as a roof pane of a vehicle. The areas with the layers 2a can be transparent areas of the roof pane, the transparency of which can be electrically controlled by means of the functional elements 3. The areas with the films 2b can, for example, be opaque areas of the roof pane, with visibility being prevented, for example, by a black masking print on a surface of one of the glass panes 1, 5, 6, 8.

[0095] Figure 5 shows cross-sections through the glazing element from Figure 3 at various times during a method according to the invention for its production. The composite pane comprising another glass pane 6 (secondary pane), a thermoplastic intermediate layer 7, and another glass pane 8 is provided in a pre-laminated state. The functional element 3 is fixed to a surface of the glass pane 1 (primary pane). The composite pane is arranged parallel to the glass pane 1 (primary pane) and at a distance from it, with the glass pane 6 (secondary pane) and the surface of the glass pane 1 (primary pane) provided with the functional element 3 facing each other. The space between the panes forms a cavity.

[0096] The said cavity or space between the panes is then provided with an edge seal 9 (Figure 5a). The edge seal 9 is, for example, an adhesive tape that is attached to the side edges of glass pane 1 and another glass pane 6, thus sealing the space between the panes. The edge seal is applied all the way around, leaving an opening in the cavity. The cavity is then completely filled with an optically clear adhesive through this opening. The optically clear adhesive is then cured (for example, by UV radiation), resulting in layer 2a of the optically clear adhesive, which in turn forms the encapsulating layer 2 (Figure 5b). After removing the edge seal 9, the glazing element shown in Figure 3 is obtained.

[0097] An edge seal 9 can also be used, which remains permanently in the glazing element. Such a permanent edge seal 9 is preferably arranged in the edge region of the glazing element between the glass pane 1 and the glass pane 6 and is made of polyurethane, for example.

[0098] Figure 6 shows cross-sections through the glazing element from Figure 1 at various times during a method according to the invention for its production. The functional elements 3 are fixed to the surface of the glass pane 1. The glass pane 1 is arranged parallel to and spaced from a support pane 10, with the surface of the glass pane 1 provided with the functional element 3 facing the support pane 10. The space between the panes forms a cavity. The support pane is, for example, also a 3.5 mm thick pane of soda-lime glass. A separating layer 11, for example a Teflon film, is arranged on the surface of the support pane 10 facing the glass pane 1.

[0099] The cavity or space between the panes is then provided with an edge seal 9 (Figure 6a), for example, an adhesive tape. The optically clear adhesive is then poured into the cavity and cured, resulting in layer 2a of the optically clear adhesive, which in turn forms the capsule layer 2 (Figure 6b).

[0100] After removing the edge seal 9, the support plate 10 can be removed along with the separating layer 11. This is easily possible because the separating layer prevents adhesion between the support plate 10 and the capsule layer 2. This results in the glazing element shown in Figure 1 (Figure 6c).

[0101] Figure 7 shows cross-sections through another glazing element at various times during a method for its production according to the invention. Similar to the embodiment shown in Figure 2, the functional element 2 is to be embedded in the layer 2a of the optically clear adhesive, the glass pane 1 (primary pane) is to be part of a laminated glass, and the surface of the capsule layer facing away from the glass pane 1 forms an external surface of the glazing element.

[0102] The composite pane comprising glass pane 1, another glass pane 5, and a thermoplastic intermediate layer 4 disposed therebetween is provided in a pre-laminated form. The functional element 3 is provided in a pre-encapsulated form, with the functional element 3 (a functional film with electrically controllable optical properties) being completely surrounded by a pre-encapsulation 2c made of an optically clear adhesive. The functional element 3 with the pre-encapsulation 2c is fixed, for example, glued, to the surface of the glass pane 1. The glass pane 1 is arranged parallel to and spaced from a support pane 10, with the surface of the glass pane 1 provided with the functional element 3 facing the support pane 10. The space between the panes forms a cavity. The support pane is, for example, also a 3.5 mm thick pane made of soda-lime glass.On the surface of the support plate 10 facing the glass plate 1, a separating layer 11 is arranged, for example a Teflon film.

[0103] The cavity or space between the panes is then provided with an edge seal 9 (Figure 7a), for example, an adhesive tape. The optically clear adhesive is then poured into the cavity and cured. The same adhesive is used as for the pre-encapsulation 2c. The pre-encapsulation 2c and the optically clear adhesive poured into the cavity result in the inventive layer 2a of the optically clear adhesive, which in turn forms the encapsulation layer 2 (Figure 7b).

[0104] After removing the edge seal 9, the support pane 10 with the separating layer 11 can be removed. This results in a glazing element of the type shown in Figure 2 (Figure 7c).

[0105] A glazing element with a functional element 3 embedded in layer 2a can alternatively be manufactured by arranging the functional element s in the cavity or interpane space without contact with the glass pane 1. For this purpose, the functional element 3 can, for example, be suspended in the cavity.

[0106] The embodiments and combinations of features shown are merely examples and are not intended to limit the invention. Thus, in all embodiments in which the functional element 3 is arranged between the glass pane 1 and layer 2a, the functional element 3 can alternatively also be embedded in the layer 2a, and vice versa. Furthermore, in cases in which the encapsulating layer 2 is arranged between the glass pane 1 (primary pane) and another pane 6 (secondary pane), it is not necessary for this additional glass pane 6 to be part of a composite pane, as in Figures 3 and 4. Instead, the additional glass pane 6 can also be provided as a single pane, so that its surface facing away from the encapsulating layer 2 forms an external surface of the glazing element.Both the glass pane 1 (primary pane) and the further pane 6 (secondary pane) can also be provided as individual panes, so that their mutually opposite surfaces form the external surfaces of the glazing element. The design of the encapsulating layer 2 as shown in Figure 4, consisting of thermoplastic films 2b and layers 2a of optically clear adhesive, can in principle be combined with any glazing element structure, particularly those in which the encapsulating layer 2 is arranged between the glass pane 1 (primary pane) and a further pane 6 (secondary pane). Glass pane 1 and further glass pane 6 are preferably provided pre-laminated over the films 2b, and the cavities are subsequently filled with optically clear adhesive. List of reference symbols:

[0107] (1) Glass pane / primary pane

[0108] (2) Capsule layer

[0109] (2a) Layer of an optically clear adhesive

[0110] (2b) thermoplastic film (as part of the capsule layer 2)

[0111] (2c) Pre-encapsulation of the functional element 3 from an optically clear adhesive

[0112] (3) Functional element

[0113] (4) thermoplastic intermediate layer

[0114] (5) additional glass pane

[0115] (6) additional glass pane / secondary pane

[0116] (7) thermoplastic intermediate layer

[0117] (8) additional glass pane

[0118] (9) Edge sealing

[0119] (10) Support disc

[0120] (11) Separating layer

[0121] (I) (first) external surface of the glazing element

[0122] (II) (second) external surface of the glazing element

Claims

Glazing element, comprising a glass pane (1) or plastic pane and an encapsulation layer (2) on a surface of the glass pane (1) or plastic pane, wherein the encapsulation layer (2) is formed at least in regions as a layer (2a) of an optically clear adhesive and wherein an electrical functional element (3) is arranged between the layer (2a) of the optically clear adhesive and the glass pane (1) or plastic pane or is embedded in the layer (2a) of the optically clear adhesive. Glazing element according to claim 1, wherein the surface of the encapsulation layer (2) facing away from the glass pane (1) or plastic pane forms an external surface (II) of the glazing element. Glazing element according to claim 1, wherein the encapsulation layer (2) is arranged between said glass pane (1) or plastic pane and a further glass pane (6) or plastic pane.Glazing element according to claim 3, wherein the encapsulating layer (2) is formed in some regions as a layer (2a) of the optically clear adhesive and in some regions from at least one thermoplastic film (2b). Glazing element according to one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the encapsulating layer (2) is formed entirely as a layer (2a) of the optically clear adhesive. Glazing element according to one of claims 1 to 5, wherein said glass pane (1) or plastic pane is connected to another glass pane (1) or plastic pane via a thermoplastic intermediate layer (4). Glazing element according to one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the functional element (3) is a functional film with electrically controllable optical properties, in particular an SPD film, a film based on liquid crystal technology or an electrochromic film, a sensor, in particular a light sensor, rain sensor or temperature sensor, or a light source, in particular a light-emitting diode. Glazing element according to one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the capsule layer (2) has a thickness of 0.2 mm to 50 mm, preferably of 0.5 mm to 2 mm. Glazing element according to one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the optically clear adhesive is a 2-component polyurethane adhesive, a 1-component acrylate adhesive, a 1-component silicone adhesive or a 1-component acrylate hybrid adhesive. Method for producing a glazing element according to claim 2, wherein (a) the glass pane (1) or plastic pane and a support plate (10) are arranged parallel and spaced apart from each other so that a cavity is formed between them, (b) the cavity is provided with an edge seal (9), (c) an optically clear adhesive is filled into the cavity and cured, and (d) the support plate (10) is removed, wherein the functional element (3) is arranged on the surface of the glass plate (1) or plastic plate facing the support plate (10) or is arranged in the cavity prior to process step (a). The method according to claim 10, wherein a separating layer (11) is arranged on the surface of the support plate (10) facing the glass plate (1) or plastic plate, which separating layer is suitable for preventing adhesion between the support plate (10) and the optically clear plastic, preferably a Teflon layer or Teflon film. A method for producing a glazing element according to claim 3, wherein (a) the glass pane (1) or plastic pane and the further glass pane (6) or plastic pane are arranged parallel and spaced apart from one another so that a cavity is formed between them, (b) the cavity is provided with an edge seal (9) and (c) an optically clear adhesive is poured into the cavity and cured, wherein the functional element (3) is arranged on the surface of the glass pane (1) or plastic pane facing the further glass pane (6) or plastic pane or is arranged in the cavity before method step (a). Method according to claim 12, wherein the glass pane (1) or plastic pane and the further glass pane (6) or plastic pane are partially joined to one another in method step (a) via a thermoplastic film (2b), wherein at least one cavity is formed between them, which cavity is provided with the edge seal (9) in method step (b) by providing the space between the panes with the edge seal (9).Method according to one of claims 10 to 13, wherein the functional element s is provided with a pre-encapsulation 2c made of an optically clear adhesive and is arranged on the surface of the glass pane (1) or plastic pane facing the further glass pane (6) or plastic pane, or is arranged in the cavity. Use of a glazing element according to one of claims 1 to 9 in buildings or in means of transport for land, air, or water traffic, preferably as a vehicle window.

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