Anti-collision glazing unit

Abstract

The present invention relates to the field of multiple glazing units suitable for being installed in a building, on a facade and / or on a roof. More precisely, the invention relates to "anti-collision" glazing units which make it possible to prevent, or at least reduce, the risk of birds colliding with the glazing unit. The invention also relates to the manufacture of such multiple glazing units and to the installation thereof in a building.

Description

Description Title of the invention: ANTI-COLLISION GLAZING

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of multi-pane glazing adapted for installation in a building, on a facade and / or roof. More specifically, the invention relates to so-called "anti-collision" glazing, which prevents or at least reduces the risk of a bird colliding with said glazing. The invention also relates to the manufacture of such multi-pane glazing, as well as its installation in a building.

[0002] The present invention relates in particular to the integration of a transparent, diffuse-reflecting layered element within such a multi-glazing unit. The layered element may be rigid or flexible. It may, in particular, be a glazing unit, made, for example, of glass or polymer material. It may also be a flexible film made of polymer material, particularly suitable for application to a surface to impart diffuse reflective properties while preserving its transmission properties.

[0003] Known glazing types include standard transparent glazing, which results in specular transmission and reflection of radiation incident on the glazing, and translucent glazing, which results in diffuse transmission and reflection of radiation incident on the glazing.

[0004] Typically, reflection by glazing is said to be diffuse when radiation incident on the glazing at a given angle of incidence is reflected by the glazing in multiple directions. Reflection by glazing is said to be specular when radiation incident on the glazing at a given angle of incidence is reflected by the glazing at an angle of reflection equal to the angle of incidence. Similarly, transmission through glazing is said to be specular when radiation incident on the glazing at a given angle of incidence is transmitted by the glazing at an angle of transmission equal to the angle of incidence.

[0005] One drawback of standard transparent glazing is that it reflects sharp, mirror-like reflections, which is undesirable in some applications. For example, when glazing is used for a building window, it is REPLACEMENT SHEET (RULE 26) It is preferable to limit reflections, which reduce visibility through the glass. Sharp reflections on glass can also generate glare, with safety implications, for example, when vehicle headlights reflect off the glass facades of buildings. This problem is particularly relevant for airport glass facades. It is essential to minimize the risk of glare for pilots approaching terminals.

[0006] Furthermore, while translucent glazing has the advantage of not generating sharp reflections, it does not allow for a clear view through the glazing.

[0007] To overcome these drawbacks, it is known from the prior art, including document WO2012104547A1, to implement a transparent, diffusely reflective layered element comprising two smooth external main surfaces, as well as: - two outer layers, a lower outer layer and an upper outer layer, each forming one of the two principal outer surfaces of the layered element and made of dielectric materials having substantially the same refractive index, and - a central layer intercalated between the outer layers, this central layer being formed either by a single layer which is a dielectric layer with a refractive index different from that of the outer layers or a metallic layer, or by a stack of layers which includes at least one dielectric layer with a refractive index different from that of the outer layers or a metallic layer, where each contact surface between two adjacent layers of the layered element which are one dielectric and the other metallic, or which are two dielectric layers with different refractive indices, is textured and parallel to the other textured contact surfaces between two adjacent layers which are one dielectric and the other metallic or which are two dielectric layers with different refractive indices.

[0008] The transparent substrate can be made of, among other things, transparent polymer, transparent glass, or transparent ceramic. When the substrate REPLACEMENT SHEET (RULE 26) The transparent material is made of polymer and can be rigid or flexible. In the form of a flexible film, such a transparent substrate is advantageously provided, on one of its main external surfaces, with an adhesive layer covered by a protective strip designed to be removed for film application. The layered element in the form of a flexible film can then be bonded to an existing surface, for example, a window, to give that surface diffuse reflective properties while maintaining specular transmission properties.

[0009] Each outer layer of the layered element can be formed by a stacking of layers, provided that the different constituent layers of the outer layer are made of dielectric materials all having substantially the same refractive index.

[0010] For the purposes of the invention, a dielectric material or layer is understood to be a material or layer with low electrical conductivity, less than 100 S / m.

[0011] The term "index" refers to the optical refractive index, measured at a wavelength of 550 nm.

[0012] For the purposes of the invention, two dielectric materials have substantially the same refractive index, or have substantially equal refractive indices, when the absolute value of the difference between their refractive indices at 550 nm is less than or equal to 0.15. Preferably, the absolute value of the difference in refractive index at 550 nm between the constituent materials of the two outer layers of the layered element is less than 0.05, and even more preferably less than 0.015.

[0013] In contrast, two dielectric layers have different refractive indices when the absolute value of the difference between their refractive indices at 550 nm is strictly greater than 0.15.

[0014] In the overall description and with regard to the composition of the central layer, a distinction is made between metallic layers, on the one hand, for which the value of the refractive index is indifferent, and dielectric layers, on the other hand, for which the difference in refractive index compared to that of the external layers must be taken into consideration. REPLACEMENT SHEET (RULE 26)

[0015] For the purposes of the invention, the contact surface between two adjacent layers is the interface between the two adjacent layers.

[0016] For the purposes of this invention, the following definitions are used: - A transparent element is one through which there is specular transmission of radiation at least in the wavelength ranges useful for the intended application of the element. For example, when the element is used as glazing for a building or vehicle, it is transparent at least in the visible wavelength range. A smooth surface is one in which the surface irregularities are smaller than the wavelength of the radiation incident on the surface, so that the radiation is not deflected by these surface irregularities. The incident radiation is then transmitted and reflected specularly by the surface. - A textured surface is a surface where the surface irregularities vary on a larger scale than the wavelength of the radiation incident on the surface. The incident radiation is then transmitted and reflected diffusely by the surface.

[0017] The parallelism of textured contact surfaces implies that the constituent layer(s) of the central layer that are dielectric with a refractive index different from that of the outer layers, or that are metallic, have a uniform thickness perpendicular to the contact surfaces of the central layer with the outer layers. This uniformity of thickness can be global across the entire texture, or local to specific sections of the texture. In particular, when the texture exhibits variations in slope, the thickness between two consecutive textured contact surfaces can change, section by section, depending on the slope of the texture, while the textured contact surfaces remain parallel to each other. This is especially true for a sputtered coating, where the layer thickness decreases as the slope of the texture increases.Thus, locally, on each texture segment having a given slope, the thickness of the layer remains constant, but the thickness of the layer is different between a first texture segment having a first slope and a. REPLACEMENT SHEET (RULE 26) second texture section having a second slope different from the first slope.

[0018] Figures 1 to 3 depict such a layered transparent element known from the prior art. For clarity, the relative thicknesses of the different layers have not been strictly adhered to. Furthermore, the possible variation in thickness of each constituent layer of the central layer as a function of the texture slope has not been shown in the figures, it being understood that this possible variation in thickness does not affect the parallelism of the textured contact surfaces. Indeed, for each given texture slope, the textured contact surfaces are parallel to each other.

[0019] Throughout this description, the transparent layered element is considered to be positioned horizontally, with its first face oriented downwards, defining a lower external principal surface, and its second face, opposite the first, oriented upwards, defining an upper external principal surface. The meanings of the terms "above" and "below" should therefore be understood in relation to this orientation. Unless otherwise specified, the terms "above" and "below" do not necessarily mean that the two layers are in contact with each other. The terms "lower" and "upper" are used here with reference to this positioning.

[0020] Note that the expression "between ... and ..." includes the bounds in the interval.

[0021] The layered element 1 shown in Figure 1 comprises two outer layers 2 and 4, which are made of transparent dielectric materials having substantially the same refractive index n2, n4. Each outer layer 2 or 4 has a smooth main surface, respectively 2A or 4A, directed towards the outside of the layered element, and a textured main surface, respectively 2B or 4B, directed towards the inside of the layered element.

[0022] The smooth external surfaces 2A and 4A of the layered element 1 allow specular transmission of radiation at each surface 2A and 4A, i.e., the entry of radiation into an external layer or the exit of a REPLACEMENT SHEET (RULE 26) radiation from an outer layer without changing the direction of the radiation.

[0023] The textures of the internal surfaces 2B and 4B are complementary. As clearly seen in Figure 1, the textured surfaces 2B and 4B are positioned opposite each other, in a configuration where their textures are strictly parallel. The layered element 1 also includes a central layer 3, interposed in contact between the textured surfaces 2B and 4B.

[0024] In the variant shown in Figure 2, the central layer 3 is a single layer made of a transparent material that is either metallic or a dielectric with a refractive index n3 different from that of the outer layers 2 and 4. In the variant shown in Figure 3, the central layer 3 is formed by a transparent stack of several layers 31, 32, ..., 3k, where at least one of the layers 31 to 3k is either a metallic layer or a dielectric layer with a refractive index different from that of the outer layers 2 and 4. Preferably, at least each of the two layers 31 and 3k located at the ends of the stack is a metallic layer or a dielectric layer with a refractive index n31 or n3k different from that of the outer layers 2 and 4.

[0025] In Figures 1 to 3, S0 is the contact surface between the outer layer 2 and the central layer 3, and S1 is the contact surface between the central layer 3 and the outer layer 4. In addition, in Figure 3, S2 to Sk are successively the internal contact surfaces of the central layer 3, starting from the contact surface closest to the surface S0.

[0026] In the variant of Figure 2, due to the arrangement of the central layer 3 in contact between the textured surfaces 2B and 4B which are parallel to each other, the contact surface S0 between the outer layer 2 and the central layer 3 is textured and parallel to the contact surface S1 between the central layer 3 and the outer layer 4. In other words, the central layer 3 is a textured layer having, at least locally, a uniform thickness e3, taken perpendicular to the contact surfaces S0 and S1.

[0027] In the variant of Figure 3, each contact surface S2,... ,Sk between two adjacent layers of the constitutive stack of the central layer 3 is REPLACEMENT SHEET (RULE 26) textured and strictly parallel to the contact surfaces SO and S1 between the outer layers 2, 4 and the central layer 3. Thus, all the contact surfaces S0, S1, ..., Sk between adjacent layers of element 1 that are either of different natures, dielectric or metallic, or dielectrics with different refractive indices, are textured and parallel to each other. In particular, each layer 31, 32, ..., 3k of the stack constituting the central layer 3 has, at least locally, a uniform thickness e31, e32, ..., e3k, taken perpendicular to the contact surfaces S0, S1, ..., Sk.

[0028] As shown in Figure 1, the texture of each contact surface S0,S1 or S0,S1 ,... ,Sk of the layered element 1 is formed by a plurality of textures in depression or protrusion with respect to a general plane TT of the contact surface.

[0029] Figure 1 illustrates the path of radiation incident on layered element 1 on the side of the outer layer 2. The incident rays Ri arrive perpendicularly at the outer layer 2. As shown in Figure 1, the incident rays Ri, when they reach the contact surface S0 between the outer layer 2 and the central layer 3, at a given angle of incidence θ, are reflected either by the metallic surface or, due to the difference in refractive index at this contact surface, between the outer layer 2 and the central layer 3 in the variant of Figure 2 and between the outer layer 2 and layer 3 in the variant of Figure 3. Since the contact surface S0 is textured, the reflection occurs in a plurality of directions Rr. The reflection of the radiation by layered element 1 is therefore diffuse.

[0030] Part of the incident radiation is also refracted in the central layer 3. In the variant shown in Figure 2, the contact surfaces S0 and S1 are parallel to each other, which implies, according to Snell's law, that n2.sin(6) = n4.sin(6'), where 6 is the angle of incidence of the radiation on the central layer 3 from the outer layer 2 and 6' is the angle of refraction of the radiation in the outer layer 4 from the central layer 3. In the variant shown in Figure 3, since the contact surfaces S0, S1, ..., Sk are all parallel to each other, the relation n2.sin(6) = n4.sin(6') from Snell's law remains valid. Therefore, in both variants, since the refractive indices n2 and n4 of the two outer layers are approximately equal to each other, REPLACEMENT SHEET (RULE 26) On the other hand, the Rt rays transmitted by the layered element are transmitted with a transmission angle 0' equal to their angle of incidence 0 on the layered element. The transmission of radiation by layered element 1 is therefore specular.

[0031] Similarly, in both variants, radiation incident on the layer 1 element on the side of the outer layer 4 is reflected diffusely and transmitted specularly by the layered element, for the same reasons as before.

[0032] Examples of suitable polymers for the transparent substrate include, but are not limited to, polyesters such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), polyethylene naphthalate (PEN); polyacrylates such as polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA); polycarbonate; polyurethane; polyamides; polyimides; fluoropolymers such as ethylene tetrafluoroethylene (ETFE), polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), polychlorotrifluoroethylene (PCTFE), ethylene chlorotrifluoroethylene (ECTFE), fluorinated ethylene-propylene copolymers (FEP); and photocurable and / or photopolymerizable resins, such as thiolene, polyurethane, urethane-acrylate, and polyester-acrylate resins.

[0033] Examples of glass substrates that can be used directly as the outer layer of a layered element include: - glass substrates marketed by the company Saint-Gobain Glass in the SATINOVO® range, which are already textured and have on one of their main surfaces a texture obtained by sandblasting or acid etching; - glass substrates marketed by Saint-Gobain Glass in the ALBARINO® S, P or G range or in the MASTERGLASS® range, which have on one of their main surfaces a texture obtained by lamination, - high index sandblasted textured glass substrates such as flint glass for example marketed by the company Schott under the references SF6 (n=1,81), 7SF57 (n=1,85), N-SF66 (n=1,92), P-SF68 (n=2,00). REPLACEMENT SHEET (RULE 26)

[0034] Examples of core layers that can be sandwiched between outer layers include dielectric thin films, selected from oxides, nitrides or halides of one or more transition metals, nonmetals or alkaline earth metals, including layers of Si3N4, SnO2, ZnO, ZrO2, SnZnOx, AIN, NbO, NbN, TiO2, SiO2, Al2O3, MgF2, AIF3, or metallic thin films, including layers of silver, gold, copper, titanium, niobium, silicon, aluminum, nickel-chromium alloy (NiCr), stainless steel, or alloys of these metals.

[0035] The texturing of one of the main surfaces of the outer layers can be obtained by any known texturing process, for example by embossing the surface of the substrate previously heated to a temperature at which it is possible to deform it, in particular by rolling with a roller having on its surface a texture complementary to the texturing to be formed on the substrate; by abrasion with abrasive particles or surfaces, in particular by sandblasting; by chemical treatment, in particular acid treatment in the case of a glass substrate; by molding, in particular injection molding in the case of a thermoplastic polymer substrate; by engraving.

[0036] The texture of each contact surface between two adjacent layers of the layered element, one dielectric and the other metallic, or two dielectric layers with different refractive indices, is random across the contact surface. Alternatively, the texture of each contact surface between two adjacent layers of the layered element, one dielectric and the other metallic, or two dielectric layers with different refractive indices, is periodic across the contact surface. Such texture can take the form of cones, pyramids, grooves, ribs, or ripples, among other things.

[0037] In a known manner, a layered element as described above can be obtained via a manufacturing process comprising the following steps: a) a transparent substrate (S1) is provided as a lower outer layer 2, one of whose principal surfaces 2B is textured and the other principal surface 2A is smooth; b) a central layer 3 (S2) is deposited onto the textured principal surface 2B of the lower outer layer 2, i.e., when the central layer 3 is formed by REPLACEMENT SHEET (RULE 26) a single layer, which is a dielectric layer with a refractive index different from that of the outer layer 2 or a metallic layer, by depositing the central layer 3 conformally on said textured main surface 2B, or, where the central layer 3 is formed by a stack of layers (31, 32, ..., 3k) comprising at least one dielectric layer with a refractive index different from that of the first outer layer 2 or a metallic layer, by depositing the layers (31, 32, ..., 3k) of the central layer 3 successively conformally on said textured main surface 2B; c) the upper outer layer 4 is formed on the textured main surface 3B of the central layer 3 opposite the lower outer layer 2, where the lower outer layers 2 and upper outer layers 4 are made of dielectric materials having substantially the same refractive index.

[0038] The conformal deposition of the central layer 3, whether a single layer or a stack of several layers, should preferably be carried out under vacuum using magnetic field-assisted sputtering (also known as "magnetron sputtering"). This technique allows, in particular, the conformal deposition of either the single layer or the successive layers of the stack onto the textured surface 2B of the substrate 2, conforming to the texture. In other words, implementing this technique ensures that the surfaces delimiting the different layers are parallel to each other.

[0039] Alternatively or in combination, the deposition of the central layer 3 can be carried out by screen printing and includes: b1) The positioning of a screen printing screen opposite the main textured surface of the lower outer layer, b2) The deposition on the screen printing screen, preferably using a squeegee, of a dielectric layer with a refractive index different from that of the outer layers or of a metallic layer.

[0040] There is a need to make building windows clearly visible to birds so they don't accidentally collide with them. One known solution to this need is to texture the outer surface of the glass to create a pattern visible to birds. REPLACEMENT SHEET (RULE 26)

[0041] One identified drawback is that the pattern appears blurry to an observer positioned inside the building, due to diffuse light transmission at that location. This is undesirable, at least from an aesthetic point of view.

[0042] There is therefore a need to provide multi-pane anti-collision glazing with an anti-collision pattern which, on the one hand, provides satisfactory visibility for a bird and, on the other hand, limits or eliminates the blur that can be perceived by an observer positioned inside the building.

[0043] The present invention addresses this need. More particularly, in at least one embodiment, the proposed technique relates to a multi-glazed unit adapted for installation in a building, on the facade and / or roof, comprising at least one outer laminated glazing unit and one inner glazing unit separated by a gas gap and intended to be arranged respectively towards the exterior and interior of the building, said laminated glazing unit incorporating a transparent layered element comprising two main smooth external surfaces, as well as: - two outer layers, a lower outer layer and an upper outer layer, at least one of which is a lamination interlayer, each forming one of the two principal outer surfaces of the layered element and made of dielectric materials having substantially the same refractive index, and - a central layer interposed between the outer layers, this central layer being formed either by a single layer which is a dielectric layer with a refractive index different from that of the outer layers or a metallic layer, or by a stack of layers which includes at least one dielectric layer with a refractive index different from that of the outer layers or a metallic layer, wherein a first part of each contact surface between two adjacent layers of the layered element which are one dielectric and the other metallic, or which are two dielectric layers with different refractive indices, is textured and parallel to the other textured contact surfaces between two adjacent layers, and wherein a second part of each contact surface between two layers REPLACEMENT SHEET (RULE 26) adjacent to the layered element is smooth, characterized in that said first part forms a textured pattern which contrasts with a background formed by the second part, said pattern being such that: - each subset of said motif is separated from an adjacent subset by a distance of less than 10.16 cm, preferably less than 5.08 cm, - said motif has a visibility score "SCORE" greater than or equal to 0 in relation to the background, and which satisfies the equation: SCORE = 0.85*AS + 0.15*AL Where AS is the chromatic contrast and satisfies the equation: Where “wi” is the Weber fraction representing the sensitivity of an “i” cone in a bird's retina, Where “Afi” is the actual difference in perception between said pattern (14) and the background (15), Where “fi” satisfies the equation: fi = In (Qi / Qi_ref) where Qi is the sensory response of a cone “i” of the bird's retina and satisfies the equation: Where "A" is the wavelength, "S" is the spectrum considered, "I" is the illuminant D65 according to the EN410 standard which describes the average solar spectrum and "Ri" is the sensitivity spectrum of said cone "i", Where "Qi_ref" corresponds to "Qi" with S equal to 1, Where "AL" is the achromatic contrast and satisfies the equation: AL = Af_achromatic / w_achromatic Where "w_achromatic" equals 0.1 is the Weber fraction representing the achromatic sensitivity of a bird's retina, Where “Af_achromatic” is the actual achromatic perception difference between said pattern (X) and background (X), REPLACEMENT SHEET (RULE 26) Where "f_achromatic" satisfies the equation: f_achromatic = In (Q / Q_ref) Where Q is the achromatic sensory response of a bird's retina and satisfies the equation: Where "R" is the achromatic sensitivity spectrum, Where "Q_ref" corresponds to "Q" with "S" equal to 1.

[0044] For the purposes of this invention, multi-glazing refers to a plurality of panes of glass—laminated or not—spaced and separated by one or two layers of gas or vacuum, depending on whether the multi-glazing is double or triple glazing. Clearly, the implementation of anti-collision multi-glazing is particularly useful in the building sector.

[0045] According to the invention, the textured and reflective pattern formed within the layered element contrasts with the background in the sense that it is visually distinct from it, at least from a bird's-eye view. This background therefore corresponds to a surface defined in opposition to the textured reflective pattern, like a negative image of the latter.

[0046] The present invention lies firstly in the selection of an anti-collision pattern based on both a geometric criterion and a contrast criterion: the visibility score. This "SCORE" offers excellent reliability, as it takes into account the optical perception of a bird in all its complexity, and in particular with regard to the chromatic and achromatic sensitivity of its retina. A multi-glazing unit with a score greater than or equal to 0 thus satisfactorily limits the risk of a bird colliding with the glazing.

[0047] As detailed in the description, the implementation of a reflective central layer allows diffuse reflection at the textured pattern level, making it visible from a bird's-eye view.

[0048] Finally, integrating such an anti-collision pattern within a transparent, diffuse-reflecting element makes it possible to eliminate, or at least limit, the blur that can REPLACEMENT SHEET (RULE 26) to be perceived by an observer positioned inside the building, at the level of the pattern.

[0049] According to a particular embodiment, said laminated glazing incorporates an electrochromic stack.

[0050] For the purposes of this invention, an electrochromic stack, also called an electrochemical functional system with electrically controllable optical and / or energetic properties, comprises at least one electrochemically active layer arranged between a first electrode coating and a second electrode coating. This at least one electrochemically active layer is adapted to switch, under the effect of a suitable electrical supply and in a reversible manner, between a clear state and a tinted state, the optical and / or energetic properties of which vary. Such properties relate particularly to light transmission, absorption, reflection, or scattering.The induced variation generally occurs in the optical domain (infrared, visible, ultraviolet) and / or in other domains of electromagnetic radiation, hence the name of device with variable optical and / or energy properties, the optical domain not necessarily being the only domain concerned.

[0051] As detailed in the description, the combination of an anti-collision pattern and electrochromic layering within the multi-glazing has the advantage of increasing the contrast between the pattern and the background, as perceived by a bird. In other words, the anti-collision pattern appears more visible to a bird.

[0052] According to a particular embodiment, said electrochromic stack is in contact with said gas blade.

[0053] According to a particular embodiment, said electrochromic stack forms at least in part said central layer.

[0054] According to a particular embodiment, one of said external layers of the layered element is formed of an external substrate of said laminated glazing intended to be arranged towards the outside of the building. REPLACEMENT SHEET (RULE 26)

[0055] According to a particular embodiment, one of said external layers of the layered element is formed of an internal substrate of said laminated glazing intended to be arranged towards the interior of the building.

[0056] According to a particular embodiment, the Weber fraction "wi" representing the sensitivity of a cone "i" of the retina of a bird is selected according to the following specific values: W1 = 0.2; W2 = 0.14142; W3 = 0.14142; W4 = 0.1.

[0057] Such a set of Weber fractions corresponds to the typical sensitivity of a bird. Selecting such a set of Weber fractions therefore makes it possible to provide an anti-collision pattern with excellent visibility for the vast majority of bird species.

[0058] According to a particular embodiment, said motif comprises wavy or straight bands.

[0059] According to a particular embodiment, said motif comprises dots.

[0060] According to a particular embodiment, the invention also relates to a process comprising a manufacturing step for such multi-glazing.

[0061] According to a particular embodiment, the invention also relates to a method comprising a step of mounting in a building, on the facade and / or on the roof, at least one such multi-glazing.

[0062] Other features and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following description of particular embodiments, given by way of simple illustrative and non-limiting examples, and the accompanying figures, for which: - Figure 1 is a schematic cross-section of a layered element known from the prior art; - Figure 2 is a larger scale view of detail I of figure 1 for a first variant of the layered element known from the prior art; - Figure 3 is a larger-scale view of detail I of Figure 1 for a second variant of the layered element known from the prior art; and - Figure 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a multi-pane glazing unit according to a first particular embodiment of the invention, REPLACEMENT SHEET (RULE 26) - Figure 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a multiple glazing unit according to a second particular embodiment of the invention, - Figure 6 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a multiple glazing according to a third particular embodiment of the invention.

[0063] The various elements illustrated in the figures are not shown to scale, the emphasis being on representing the general operation of the invention. In particular, the exact path of the incident solar rays within the multiple glazing is not detailed – notably the angular deviations that can be generated at each interface – the diagram focusing more on illustrating the diffuse reflection generated at motif 14, as opposed to the specular reflection generated at background 15.

[0064] According to a first particular embodiment, as illustrated in Figure 4, the invention relates to a multiple-pane glazing unit 7 adapted for installation in a building, on the facade and / or roof, comprising at least one outer laminated pane 8 and one inner pane 9 separated by a gas gap 10 and intended to be arranged respectively towards the exterior and interior of the building. In Figure 1, a sun and a bird are positioned outside the building, while an observer is positioned inside. The outer laminated pane 8 incorporates a transparent layered element 1, which constitutes a lamination interlayer 16 and is interposed between an inner transparent substrate 11 coated with an electrochromic stack 12 in contact with said gas gap 10, and an outer transparent substrate 14.

[0065] The transparent layered element 1 comprises, between a lower outer layer 2 and an upper outer layer 4, a reflective central layer 3.

[0066] According to the invention, a first part 14 of the interface between the lower outer layer 2 and the upper outer layer 4 is textured and forms, with the help of the reflective central layer 3, a textured pattern 14 which contrasts with a background 15 formed by a smooth part of this same interface.

[0067] To highlight the diffusing effect generated at pattern 14, two incident solar rays R1 and R2 are illustrated in Figure 4. The first ray R1 passes through the layered element 1 at the background 15. The REPLACEMENT SHEET (RULE 26) Because the central layer 3 is smooth at this point, unlike the textured interface of pattern 14, the ray R1 is reflected and transmitted specularly. The bird therefore does not see this background area 15. In contrast, the second ray R2 passes through the layered element 1 at the level of the reflective textured pattern 14. The second ray R2 is then transmitted specularly—due to the layered structure of the element—and reflected diffusely, that is, in multiple directions. The risk of generating blur during transmission is thus limited, or even eliminated. Some of the diffusely reflected rays can then be perceived by the bird, which distinguishes a pattern 14, in contrast to the background 15.

[0068] Note that according to the invention, the laminated glazing "incorporates" a layered element 1 in the sense that this layered element 1 can be intercalated between the inner transparent substrates 11 and outer transparent substrates 13 of the glazing, as illustrated in Figure 4, or alternatively that one of these two substrates (11, 13) constitutes one of the outer layers (2, 4) of the layered element 1, as illustrated by Figures 5 and 6.

[0069] Thus, and according to a second particular embodiment illustrated by Figure 5, the outer transparent substrate 13 plays the role of upper outer layer 4 and includes on part of its inner face the textured pattern 14.

[0070] According to a third particular embodiment illustrated by Figure 6, it is the inner transparent substrate 11 which plays the role of lower outer layer 2 and includes on a part of its outer face - i.e. intended to be oriented towards the outside of the building - the textured pattern 14.

[0071] According to an alternative embodiment covered by the invention, the central layer 3 is made up of said electrochromic stack 12.

[0072] In order to better understand what is perceived by the bird, it is necessary to detail the composition of the light spectrum perceived on the one hand at the level of pattern 14, and on the other hand at the level of background 15. In general, the spectrum observed by the bird can be considered as the sum of the diffuse light coming out of the building and the sunlight reflected diffusely by the multi-glazing. REPLACEMENT SHEET (RULE 26)

[0073] At the level of background 15, which is a smooth interface, the reflection is specular and can therefore be neglected. As for the diffuse light exiting the building, it can be estimated to correspond to sunlight transmitted into the building, diffusely reflected off the interior walls and retransmitted to the outside.

[0074] The "BKG" spectrum of background 15 as seen by the bird is therefore as follows: BKG = %T_window A 2 * %R_wall Where %T_window is the overall transmission of the glazing, Where %R_wall can be considered as a fixed value of 40%, assuming that the interior walls of the building reflect 40% of the solar radiation (albedo).

[0075] At pattern 14, which is a textured and reflective interface, the reflection is diffuse and therefore needs to be added. As for the diffuse light exiting the building, it is transmitted diffusely through pattern 14.

[0076] The "PTRN" spectrum of pattern 14 as seen by the bird is therefore as follows: PTRN = %T_window * %R_wall + %R_pattern Where %R_pattern is its diffuse reflection at the level of said pattern 14.

[0077] According to the invention, the textured and reflective pattern 14 is characterized in that: - each subset of said motif 14 is separated from an adjacent subset by a distance of less than 10.16 cm, preferably less than 5.08 cm, and - said motif 14 has, in relation to background 15, a visibility score "SCORE" greater than or equal to 0, and which satisfies the equation: SCORE = 0.85*AS + 0.15*AL

[0078] According to this particular embodiment, the Weber fraction "wi" representing the sensitivity of a cone "i" of a bird's retina is selected according to the following specific values: W1 = 0.2; W2 = 0.14142; W3 = 0.14142; W4 = 0.1

[0079] As previously stated, the value of this SCORE depends directly on the sensory response (Q; Qi) of the bird's retina, one of whose components "S" is the value of the observed spectrum. REPLACEMENT SHEET (RULE 26)

[0080] This helps to better understand the advantage provided by implementing an electrochromic stack 12, in combination with the anti-collision pattern 14. This electrochromic stack, by tinting, will generate a significant decrease in light transmission through the multi-glazing (%T_window). With reference to the previously given definitions of the spectra of pattern 14 ("PTRN") and background 15 ("BKG"), it is understood that when light transmission decreases, the first part of the spectrum calculation (%T_window) A2 * %R_wall) tends towards 0. The "BKG" spectrum of the background 15 then tends towards 0, while the "PTRN" spectrum of the pattern 14 tends towards the diffuse reflection value "%R_pattern" of the pattern 14, hence an increase in the contrast perceived by the bird between the pattern 14 and the background 15. When the electrochromic stack switches to its tinted state, the anti-collision pattern 14 is therefore more visible to the bird.

[0081] The visual functions Ri and R implemented for the present invention are detailed in the following Table 1 [Tables 1], as a function of wavelength λ:

[0082] [Tables 1] REPLACEMENT SHEET (RULE 26) REPLACEMENT SHEET (RULE 26) REPLACEMENT SHEET (RULE 26) REPLACEMENT SHEET (RULE 26) REPLACEMENT SHEET (RULE 26) REPLACEMENT SHEET (RULE 26) REPLACEMENT SHEET (RULE 26) REPLACEMENT SHEET (RULE 26) Tl

[0083] Although specific embodiments of the present invention have been illustrated and described, it is evident that various other changes and modifications can be made to the spirit and scope of the invention. Therefore, the present text is intended to cover, in the appended claims, all modifications falling within the scope of the present invention. REPLACEMENT SHEET (RULE 26)

Claims

Claims

1. 1. Multi-glazing (7) suitable for being mounted in a building, on the facade and / or on the roof, comprising at least one exterior laminated glazing (8) and one interior glazing (9) separated by a gas blade (10) and intended respectively to be arranged towards the exterior and the interior of the building, said laminated glazing (8) integrating a transparent layered element (1) comprising two smooth external main surfaces (2A, 4A), as well as: - two external layers, a lower external layer (2) and an upper external layer (4), at least one of which is a lamination interlayer (16), which each form one of the two main external surfaces (2A, 4A) of the layered element and which are made of dielectric materials having substantially the same refractive index (n2, n4), and - a central layer (3) interposed between the external layers (2, 4), this central layer (3) being formed either by a single layer which is a dielectric layer with a refractive index (n3) different from that of the external layers or a metallic layer, or by a stack of layers (31, 32, ..., 3k) which comprises at least one dielectric layer with a refractive index different from that of the external layers or a metallic layer, where a first part (14) of each contact surface (SO, S1, ..., Sk) between two adjacent layers of the layered element which are one dielectric and the other metallic, or which are two dielectric layers with different refractive indices, is textured and parallel to the other textured contact surfaces between two adjacent layers, and where a second part (15) of each contact surface (SO, S1, ..., Sk) between two adjacent layers of the layered element is smooth, characterized in that said first part forms a textured pattern (14) which contrasts with a background (15) formed by the second part, said pattern (14) being such that:. - each subset of said pattern (14) is separated from an adjacent subset by a distance of less than 10.16 cm, preferably less than 5.08 cm, - said pattern (14) has, with respect to the background (15), a visibility score “SCORE” greater than or equal to 0, and which satisfies the equation: SCORE = 0.85*AS + 0.15*AL Where AS is the chromatic contrast and satisfies the equation: Where “wi” is the Weber fraction representing the sensitivity of an “i” cone in a bird’s retina, Where “Afi” is the actual perceptual difference between said pattern (14) and the background (15), Where "fi" satisfies the equation: fi = In (Qi / Qi_ref) where Qi is the sensory response of a cone "i" of a bird's retina and satisfies the equation: Where “À” is the wavelength, “S” is the spectrum considered, “I” is the illuminant D65 according to the EN410 standard which describes the average solar spectrum and “Ri” is the sensitivity spectrum of said cone “i”, Where “Qi_ref” corresponds to “Qi” with S equal to 1, Where “AL” is the achromatic contrast and satisfies the equation: AL = Af_achromatic / w_achromatic Where "w_achromatic" is equal to 0.1 is the Weber fraction representing the achromatic sensitivity of a bird's retina, Where “Af_achromatic” is the actual achromatic perceptual difference between said pattern (X) and the background (X), Where "f_achromatic" satisfies the equation: f_achromatic = In (Q / Q_ref) Where Q is the achromatic sensory response of a bird's retina and satisfies the equation: Where “R” is the achromatic sensitivity spectrum, Where “Q_ref” corresponds to “Q” with “S” equal to 1.

2. 2. Multi-glazing (7) according to claim 1, characterized in that said laminated glazing (8) incorporates an electrochromic stack (12).

3. 3. Multi-glazing (7) according to claim 2, characterized in that said electrochromic stack (12) is in contact with said gas blade (10).

4. 4. Multi-glazing (7) according to claim 2, characterized in that said electrochromic stack (12) at least partly forms said central layer (3).

5. 5. Multi-glazing (7) according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that one of said external layers (2, 4) of the layered element (1) is formed from an external substrate (13) of said laminated glazing (8) intended to be arranged towards the outside of the building.

6. 6. Multi-glazing (7) according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that one of said external layers (2, 4) of the layered element (1) is formed from an internal substrate (11) of said laminated glazing (8) intended to be arranged towards the interior of the building.

7. 7. Multi-glazing (7) according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the Weber fraction “wi” representing the sensitivity of a cone “i” of the retina of a bird is selected according to the following specific values: W1 = 0.2; W2 = 0.14142; W3 = 0.14142; W4 = 0.

1.

8. 8. Multi-glazing (7) according to one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that said pattern (14) comprises wavy or rectilinear bands.

9. 9. Multi-glazing (7) according to one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that said pattern (14) comprises dots.

10. 10. Method comprising a step of manufacturing a multi-glazing unit (7) according to one of claims 1 to 9.

11. 11. Method comprising a step of mounting in a building, on a facade and / or on a roof, at least one multi-glazing unit (7) according to one of claims 1 to 9.

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