Illuminatable laminated glass for vehicles, vehicles with such illuminable laminated glass
The laminated vehicle glazing system addresses the challenge of expanding applications for luminous and tint-variable glazing by using a multilayer polymer laminate with a guest host cell and optical insulating layer, achieving efficient light and tint control with minimal manufacturing complexity.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- FR2024006643
- Authority / Receiving Office
- FR · FR
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2024-06-20
- Publication Date
- 2025-12-26
AI Technical Summary
Existing luminous and tint-variable laminated vehicle glazing technologies often complicate manufacturing and design, and there is a need to expand their applications without compromising performance.
A laminated vehicle glazing system comprising a multilayer polymer laminate interlayer with a guest host cell, a liquid crystal cell, a guide layer for light guidance, and an optical insulating layer, along with a carrier film and optical insulating coating, which allows for electrically controllable light transmission and tint adjustment.
The system provides fast switching times, high contrast between light and dark states, low blurring, and neutral tint, while maintaining manufacturing simplicity and design flexibility.
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Abstract
Description
Title of the invention: Illuminatable laminated glazing for vehicles, vehicles with such illuminable laminated glazing
[0001] The present invention relates to an illuminable (and electrically controllable) laminated glazing for vehicles, in particular road vehicle glazing.
[0002] It is known to have multifunctional road vehicle roofs which can be illuminated by lighting, for example by light-emitting diodes, and which can be electrically controlled to obtain variable optical properties (in particular allowing opacification) by means of switchable functional elements integrated into the glazing, such as liquid crystals.
[0003] With regard to vehicle roof lighting, light-emitting diodes have been used for the glazed roofs of road vehicles, in particular panoramic laminated roofs with LED lighting as described in document WO2010049638. The light emitted by the diodes is introduced edge-on into the inner glazing forming a guide, the light being extracted from the glazing by a diffusing layer on the glazing.
[0004] To improve light extraction, document WO2015118279 proposes a luminous laminated vehicle roof incorporating, within the thermoplastic laminate interlayer, a fluoropolymer film at least 600 nm thick, with a refractive index n2 at 550 nm, the inner glass being a guiding layer with a refractive index n1, n1-n2 being at least 0.08, the fluoropolymer film then forming an optical insulator between the inner glass and a tinted element such as the outer glass. Such a luminous roof may further include an electrically controllable system with variable optical properties, in particular liquid crystals, below or above the optical insulator.
[0005] Furthermore, document WO2024003508 proposes a luminous laminated roof with a guest host cell comprising an adhesive optical insulating layer, part of a laminate interlayer.
[0006] The present invention sought to develop an alternative laminated vehicle glazing that is both luminous and tint-variable, without compromising the performance of either function and without unduly complicating manufacturing and / or design. The invention is particularly aimed at expanding the applications of luminous and tint-variable laminated vehicle glazing.
[0007] To this end, the present invention relates to an illuminable (and electrically controllable) vehicle window, particularly for road use, specifically an opening side window – particularly a rear window – particularly intended to be mounted sliding in a door of vehicle, in particular for car but also truck, public transport such as bus, coach, etc.) including:
[0008] - laminated glazing, preferably curved, comprising: - a first transparent sheet of mineral glass (clear or tinted), with a first main face called face Fl (intended to be oriented towards the outside of the vehicle), a second main face called face F2 and a first edge, - a second transparent sheet, with a third main face called face F3, a fourth main face called face F4 and a second edge, - between the first and second sheets, a multilayer polymer laminate interlayer, comprising an upper (adhesive) interlayer on the second face and a lower (adhesive) interlayer on the third face, - between the upper and lower intercalated layers, a liquid crystal cell called a guest host cell (or GH for "guest host" in English), with variable tint (light to dark state and vice versa), comprising a first edge, guest host cell containing an electroactive layer comprising a liquid volume of liquid crystals mixed with dichroic dyes (dissolved), electroactive layer between an upper support, in particular dielectric and transparent, comprising an upper electrode, in particular transparent, surmounted by an upper alignment layer and a lower support, in particular dielectric and transparent comprising a lower electrode, in particular transparent, surmounted by a lower alignment layer, the electroactive layer being between the lower and upper alignment layers, the lower support being closer to face F3 than the upper support,in particular guest host cell surrounded by a frame layer of the laminated interlayer (PVB-based), - a guide layer, with a refractive index ng in the visible, capable of guiding light by total internal reflection, in particular the internal guide layer comprising the second sheet and even the lower intercalated layer, or being on the fourth face F4 side (the guide layer then being called the external guide layer), - preferably a light source in optical coupling with the (internal or external) guiding layer, preferably comprising a series of light-emitting diodes, in particular extending longitudinally (longitudinal series, - preferably means of light extraction (guided in the guiding layer), preferably in the form of a diffusing coating for example on the lower interlayer (based on PVB with or without plasticizers) - between the guest host cell and the guidance layer, an optical insulator layer, optically isolating the guest host cell from the guidance layer, insulator layer optical with a refractive index n2 in the visible range, and with ng-n2 which is at least 0.04 in the visible range, of submillimeter thickness Ei of at least 400nm, The glazing further comprises a coated substrate which includes: - a transparent film called carrier film, made of a material, preferably polymeric, distinct from a fluoropolymer and a crosslinked adhesive material, with a main front face Fa oriented towards face F2 and a main rear face Fb opposite and a second edge, of submillimeter thickness Ef, - an optical insulating coating which constitutes the optical insulating layer, made of a material comprising a matrix distinct from a fluoropolymer (possibly being a cross-linked material), on one of the front faces Fa or rear faces Fb, called the coated face, and another second edge.
[0009] The entire carrier film and optical insulating coating is said to be a coated substrate.
[0010] Thanks to the guest host cell, the laminated glazing has its light transmission and tint modified when an electrical voltage is applied to the cell. A guest host cell is advantageous because it offers a very fast switching time, a high contrast between light and dark states, low blurring, and a potentially neutral tint.
[0011] In one configuration, the laminated glazing can be normally clear (with maximum light transmission) in the absence of tension, and it becomes dark (with minimum light transmission) when a tension is applied.
[0012] Conversely, the glazing can be conceived as normally dark, when not powered; it then becomes clear by the application of a voltage.
[0013] By “dark” state we mean a state in which the light transmission of the glazing in the corresponding area is lower than in the “light” state.
[0014] For example, in the dark state, the host-guest cell exhibits a light transmission of less than or equal to 8%, in particular less than or equal to 5%, or even less than or equal to 3%, and even less than or equal to 1%. In the light state, the host-guest cell exhibits a light transmission of more than or equal to 10%, in particular more than or equal to 15%, 20%, or 30%.
[0015] Laminated glazing (particularly rear opening side windows, preferably for road vehicles) exhibits, for example, a light transmission of at most 70%—and preferably at least 30%—in the light state of the host / guest cell. And / or laminated glazing (particularly rear opening side windows, preferably for road vehicles) exhibits a light transmission of less than 3% or 2%, or even 0.1%, in the dark state of the host / guest cell.
[0016] The invited host cell in the dark state enhances the vision of the light extraction means.
[0017] In the present text, light transmission is calculated from the transmission spectrum between 380 and 780 nm taking into account illuminant A and the CIE 1964 reference observer (10°).
[0018] In the following description, "hue" here means the coloured aspect in transmission, characterized in particular by one or more of the colourimetric coordinates L*, a*, b*, calculated from the spectrum in transmission between 380 and 780 nm taking into consideration the illuminant D65 as well as the CIE 1964 observer (10°).
[0019] In the present description, the opening side window is preferably intended for road vehicles. In particular, the side window is opening and rear-facing.
[0020] In the present invention, edge and slice refer to the lateral edges (as opposed to the main faces). The "edge", or "slice", thus refers to the narrow side of a layer (sheet), which is located substantially transversely between the two main faces of a layer.
[0021] In the present invention, the lower visibility limit (the lower visible edge of the glazing or "belt line") is defined for the side window that opens after installation in the door and in the closed position. The lower limit of the clear glass area may be above or be this lower visibility limit.
[0022] Preferably, the refractive index of any layer according to the invention is defined for a reference value in a range from 550 to 630 nm, preferably to 600 nm. Preferably, the difference in refractive indices nl-n2 or n'l-n2 is verified for the entire visible spectral range of the light source.
[0023] The optical insulating coating may comprise (be made of) an organic or hybrid mineral matrix, with said index n2 preferably of at most 1.42 or 1.4 (in particular if ni or n' 1 of 1.51 to 1.53), optical insulating coating clear or possibly tinted by coloring agent (molecular or pigment).
[0024] The optical insulating coating may comprise at least 99% by weight of crosslinked polymer, optional photoinitiators, rheological agents.
[0025] The optical insulating coating is preferably deposited by liquid means.
[0026] The surface of the optical insulating coating (before assembly) is non-sticky and involving the use of a laminating interlayer. The surface is then, in particular, non-sticky to the touch. Depending on the chosen deposition face, the upper or lower interlayer layer, or an additional interlayer layer of said laminating interlayer, is in adhesive contact with said surface, or the other upper or lower interlayer layer is in adhesive contact with said surface.
[0027] The optical insulating coating is in particular a varnish which can be obtained from a photocurable resin and with photoinitiators if necessary, or from a thermocurable resin, a two-component mixture, etc. A layer of crosscurable resin is deposited on the (transparent) film, preferably polymeric. Once the material is cross-linked, the free surface is not sticky.
[0028] In particular, the optical insulating coating comprises (is made of) a crosslinked polymer matrix with said index n2 preferably of at most 1.42 (or 1.4 or 1.35), matrix preferably among: - Polyacrylate-based polymers (for example, to have a refractive index of at most 1.42 or 1.4) with a possible fluorinated function (to have the lowest possible refractive index), in particular urethane acrylate or fluorourethane acrylate or fluorosilicone acrylate, - or even silicone (for example with a refractive index of at most 1.4 or 1.3) in particular polydimethylsiloxane, epoxy polymer, polyepoxides, polyurethane, polyvinyl acetate, polyester.
[0029] Preferably the optical insulating coating is free of free silicone, of volatile silicone component (source of surface pollution).
[0030] The polyacrylate described herein refers to any polymer containing repeating units derived from acrylate. The repeating unit may be substituted or unsubstituted within the permitted valence range. The acrylate polymer may be homopolymer and / or copolymer. In this text, polyacrylate comprises one or more polymethyl acrylates, polyethylene acrylate, polypropylene methacrylate, polymethyl methacrylate, polyethylene methacrylate, polyethylene methacrylate, or polypropylene methacrylate.
[0031] The epoxy polymer described herein refers to the polymer obtained after polymerization of substances containing epoxy bonds. The epoxy polymer comprises one or more bisphenol A epoxy, bisphenol A epoxy, halogenated phenolic epoxy, phenolic epoxy, cycloaliphatic epoxy, or bisphenol S epoxy resin.
[0032] The crosslinked polymer material (of the optical insulating coating) may preferably be based on (or essentially composed of) a polymer combined with one or more other functional groups, such as an acrylate group for photo-crosslinking (crosslinked polymer material based on urethane acrylate or silicone acrylate) and / or a fluorine group to lower the refractive index (crosslinked polymer material based on fluorourethane acrylate or fluorosilicone acrylate). Thus, the crosslinked polymer material of the optical insulating coating is preferably a polymer based on acrylate, urethane acrylate, or even silicone or silicone acrylate, the polymer also having a fluorine group.
[0033] Depending on the desired properties, the acrylate group can be used for photocrosslinking (for an acrylate urethane or an acrylate silicone). The acrylate group enables the photocrosslinking of the polymer, whose backbone is composed of other groups such as urethane.
[0034] The optical insulating coating according to the invention may, in particular, be a liquid coating obtained from a formulation preferably photocurable by ultraviolet (UV, in particular UVA) or a two-component coating cured by chemical reaction. UV(A) curing is preferred because it is faster and the equipment is less expensive / more compact than that obtained by chemical reaction.
[0035] In a first example of optical insulating coating, a UV curable resin based on acrylates is deposited on the transparent carrier film, in particular polymer and even PET.
[0036] In a second example of optical insulating coating, a single-component UV curable resin based on acrylates (urethane acrylate) is deposited on the transparent carrier film, in particular polymer and even PET.
[0037] In a third example of optical insulating coating, a UV curable silicone-based resin is deposited on the transparent carrier film, in particular polymer and even PET.
[0038] The optical insulating coating (clear or tinted) may comprise, or even be composed of, a matrix with a refractive index n2m greater than n2 and less than ng (ni or n' 1), and preferably with n2m of at most 1.48 and n2 preferably of at most 1.42, and comprising (nano)porosity and / or (nano)particles (of low index) with a refractive index less than ng, in particular hollow and / or porous with a size (outer diameter) of at most 300 nm or even at most 100 nm, for example, hollow and / or porous silica nanoparticles (spheres, etc.). Preferably, the optical insulating coating is free of free silicone and volatile silicone components (a source of surface pollution).
[0039] The matrix of the optical insulating coating can be organic, in particular crosslinked polymer or thermoplastic, in particular chosen from polymer based on polyacrylate, polyepoxides, polyvinyl acetate, polyester, polyurethane, PVB or the matrix is mineral in particular silica.
[0040] We can cite the low index polymers already described if we want to lower n2 further by the matrix and (nano)porosity and / or (nano)particles.
[0041] The optical insulating coating (mineral or organic matrix) comprises in particular at most 60% by volume fraction of (nano)poroses and / or low index (nano)particles or one of the following values: 40, 45%, 40%, 35%, 30%.
[0042] The refractive index n2 can be customized according to the volume of low-index or hollow nanopores or nanoparticles. As a first approximation, the following relationship can be used to calculate the index: n2 = f.n2m + (lf).neff where f is the volume fraction of the material constituting the layer and n2m is its refractive index (dense) and neff is the refractive index of the nanoporosity (equal to 1) or the effective index of the nanoparticles (hollow and / or porous or low index).
[0043] The following Table 1 illustrates the refractive index n2 as a function of n2m and the volume fraction.
[0044] [Tables 1] f 1-f n2m=l.5 n2m=l.48 n2m=l.45 n2m =1.42 n2m=l.4 n2m =1.35 1 0 1.50 1.48 1.45 1.42 1.40 1.35 0.9 0.1 1.45 1.43 1.41 1.38 1.36 1.32 0.85 0.15 1.43 1.41 1.38 1.36 1.34 1.30 0.8 0.2 1.40 1.38 1.36 1.34 1.32 1.28 0.75 0.25 1.38 1.36 1.34 1.32 1.30 1.26 0.7 0.3 1.35 1.34 1.32 1.29 1.28 1.25 0.65 0.35 1.33 1.31 1.29 1.27 1.26 1.23 0.6 0.4 1.30 1.29 1.27 1.25 1.24 1.21 0.55 0.45 1.28 1.26 1.25 1.23 1.22 1.19 0.5 0.5 1.25 1.24 1.23 1.21 1.20 1.18 0.45 0.55 1.23 1.22 1.20 1.19 1.18 1.16 0.4 0.6 1.20 1.19 1.18 1.17 1.16 1.14
[0045] The mineral optical insulating (matrix) coating preferably comprises (in particular is made of): - a porous silica-based sol-gel layer with an El of at most Ipm, ideally at most 800 nm and even 700 nm, to avoid the risk of cracking, and can easily go up to 1.3, - or an oxide-based layer (silica etc.) deposited by physical means in PVD vapor phase such as magnetron sputtering and El is at most Ipm better at most 700 nm because the deposition is very slow.
[0046] In magnetron sputtering the silica layer may contain one or more other elements such as aluminium and the refractive index may be 1.48.
[0047] The volume proportion of pores can be limited and controlled in particular by sol-gel method.
[0048] It is therefore possible to choose silica produced from tetraetoxysilane (TEOS).
[0049] The pores can be closed, done by removing a particulate pore-forming agent.
[0050] The structuring of the sol-gel layer into pores is linked to the sol-gel type synthesis technique, which allows the essentially mineral matter (i.e. mineral or organic-mineral hybrid) to be condensed with a suitably chosen porogenous agent in particular of well-defined size(s) and / or shape(s) (elongated, spherical, oval, etc.).
[0051] Laminated glazing (in particular the coated substrate) may include a protective transparent layer (film or coating), in particular polymeric (thermoplastic or cross-linked polymer), in particular with a refractive index greater than n2, of submillimeter thickness and even of no more than 100 µm, covering the optical insulating coating, possibly extending beyond the optical insulating coating. In particular, it protects the optical insulating coating containing (nano)porosity and / or low-index (nano)particles, in particular hollow, porous (silica, etc.). The protective transparent layer is in particular a mechanical protection in contact with the lower interlayer (or the other lower interlayer) and even with a diffusing coating, forming means of light extraction (discontinuous or localized), and even under the diffusing coating.
[0052] Neither the carrier film nor the optical insulating coating is based on a fluoropolymer (defined as having a fluorocarbon-based repeating motif) that adheres poorly to the lamination interlayer or requires corona treatment for this purpose. According to one feature of the invention, the polymer of the carrier film or the optical insulating coating may have a non-fluorocarbon repeating motif (in its main chain) but whose secondary functions (grafts, side chain) may contain fluorocarbons.
[0053] For the carrier film (distinct or not from the lower support), one can choose even an ultrathin glass (of at most 0.6mm) and even for the coated substrate an all-mineral solution with a mineral (or hybrid) optical insulating coating, for example for a deposit obtained by liquid means in particular a (optical insulating coating) nanoporous silica sol gel or even MgF2.
[0054] The carrier film can preferably be a polymer film, rather than even ultrathin glass which can break, and even the coated substrate is an all-polymer solution with a polymer film and a polymer matrix optical insulating coating, for example deposited by a liquid process such as inkjet printing. By a mineral (or hybrid) process, the deposition is, for example, physical vapor deposition, or by a sol-gel process.
[0055] The carrier film is for example a thermoplastic polymer (flexible, curved following the curvature of the glazing).
[0056] The carrier film (substrate), in particular a polymer according to the invention, preferably exhibits dimensional stability and is compatible with the lamination operation. (pressurized, at a given temperature), is compatible with passage through an autoclave.
[0057] The carrier film (substrate) according to the invention is distinct from an interlayer of lamination, which binds the sheets; it requires the use of the interlayer of lamination. The carrier film (substrate) is preferably a non-sticky film at room temperature.
[0058] The edge of the coated substrate (second edge of the carrier film, and even second other edge of the optical insulating coating) can be at least 10mm away from the first slice of the first sheet (and / or the second slice of the second sheet) and even at least one of the following values: 15mm, 20mm, 25mm, 30mm.
[0059] The edge of the coated substrate (second edge of the film, second other edge of the optical insulating coating) can be at least 15mm away from the clear glass and even at least one of the following values: 10mm, 8mm, 5mm, 1mm.
[0060] For protection purposes, preferably, the perimeter of the carrier film, in particular polymer and even polyethylene terephthalate (PET), (and even the coated substrate) can be surrounded, in contact (adhesive), with a part of the lamination interlayer (PVB, EVA, TPU etc) for example of a width of at least 5mm: - either from the finishing of the lower interlayer and / or the finishing of the upper interlayer or an additional interlayer, or by adding a peripheral frame layer of thickness greater than or equal to the thickness Ef of the carrier film.
[0061] In one embodiment, the carrier film is set back from the first and second glass sheets by at least 10mm and even by at least 15mm or 20mm or 25mm, and in particular the thickness Ef of the carrier film is at least 0.2mm and the glazing includes an intermediate frame layer, forming part of the lamination interlayer or the other lamination interlayer, framing the perimeter of the coated substrate and in particular between faces F2 and F3 in first configuration i) or between faces F5 and F6 in second configuration j).
[0062] The thickness Ea of the interlayer frame can be similar to Ef, for example Ef ±50pm or even ±25pm or greater, for example if the lower interlayer of thickness E' is short (same size as the film) edge to edge with the transparent film, then Ea= Ef+ E'±50pm or even ±25pm.
[0063] The intermediate frame layer is in contact with the upper or additional intermediate layer or the other upper intermediate layer and possibly in contact with the lower intermediate layer or the other lower intermediate layer.
[0064] We prefer to choose the same material (PVB in particular or an OCA) for upper or possible additional interlayer, lower interlayer.
[0065] Furthermore, this laminated glazing is preferably curved. In particular, for opening glazing, it thus presents one or more curves, with one or more radii of The curvature can range from 10 cm to 40 m. The bulge can be pronounced, particularly with high sphericity, meaning a radius of curvature of at least 0.5 m locally. In the case of a side-opening window, it typically has a width of 40 cm to 80 cm and a radius of curvature of 1.2 m to 4 m.
[0066] In order to avoid folds, undulations, preferably the peripheral area of the coated substrate is in an area of the glazing having a curvature, a sphericity limited in particular by a radius of curvature of at least 1.5m.
[0067] The thicker the carrier film, the less likely it is to deform and ripple. For example, a thickness of at least 100 µm can be chosen in the case of areas of high sphericity in the glazing.
[0068] The carrier film can have a surface area of at least 1m in length and / or at least 50cm in width.
[0069] The carrier film, in particular polymer and even thermoplastic, in particular PET, can occupy 100% of the clear glass (with edges masked from the inside and outside), in particular extending below the visibility limit of the glazing (in the door, the bodywork, etc.).
[0070] The carrier film, in particular polymer and even thermoplastic, in particular PET, can occupy at least 70%, 80%, 90% and less than 100% of the surface of the glazing (to be protected at the periphery in particular, by a material in particular of interlayer of lamination).
[0071] The carrier film, in particular polymer (PET), can be of any shape, depending on the design of the glazing, for example with rounded corners etc.
[0072] The carrier film (distinct or being the lower support) may have a low plasticizer content (for example at most 20% or 10% or 5%) or be free of plasticizers.
[0073] The carrier film (distinct from or being the lower support) may be a polymer, in particular a thermoplastic or even a cross-linked polymer, specifically: - polyester, such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET), poly(butylene terephthalate) (PBT), poly(ethylene naphthalate) (PEN), - polycarbonate (PC), - polyacrylate, including thermoplastic, polybutylacrylate, polymethacrylate (PMMA), - polyurethane (PU), in cross-linked material, - cellulose triacetate (TAC), - polyolefin: polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE), - polyimide, polyamide, a PET-PMMA (co-extruded) film, - poly(vinyl chloride) PVC.
[0074] PET (easily available) or PEN, a polyacrylate film, or PC (preferably with an interlayer based on PVB without plasticizers or with few plasticizers) or PMMA are preferred.
[0075] The carrier film (distinct or being the lower support) in particular polymer and even PET is preferably of thickness Ef of at least 30pm and / or preferably less than 200pm in particular of no more than 100pm.
[0076] With a PC or PMMA polymer carrier film, it is preferable (for greater chemical compatibility) for the interlayer in contact with it to be PVB (avoid PVB and, for example, thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU)). The same applies to the interlayer in contact with the second or third PC or PMMA polymer sheet.
[0077] In particular, the carrier film is a polymer, preferably thermoplastic, in particular polyester, polyethylene terephthalate PET, poly(butylene terephthalate) PBT, poly(ethylene naphthalate) PEN, and the optical insulating coating is on the back face of the polymer carrier film.
[0078] The most neutral color possible is generally preferred for vehicle glazing. Also preferably: -the guest host cell (in the clear glass area, outside the area of light extraction means) in a so-called dark state is defined (as such) by colorimetric coordinates al* and bl* in absolute value in particular of at most 5 or 2, defined in the chromatic space L* a* b* CIE 1976, L1 in particular of at most 70 (light state) or at most 25 (dark state), - and / or the glazing (preferably road vehicle opening side window) with the guest host cell (in the clear glass area, outside the area of light extraction means) in a so-called dark state is defined by colorimetric coordinates al* and bl* in absolute value in particular of at most 3 or 2, defined in the L* a* b* CIE 1976 chromatic space, in particular by minimizing V (a*2 + b*2), L1 is in particular of at most 40 (light state) or at most 10 (dark state).
[0079] For example, the glazing and / or the guest host cell (and even a peripheral strip or frame) has a grey colour.
[0080] However, the first pane of glass (preferably curved) may be tinted, in particular gray or green. In addition to the tint provided (for example, in the off state) by the guest host cell, the tint of the first pane of glass, the upper interlayer, or an additional interlayer of the lamination interlayer can be customized. In particular, the light transmission and tint are adjusted.
[0081] Preferably, the guest host cell and / or the glazing with the guest host cell has a blur of less than 5%, or even less than 2%, outside the light extraction zone.
[0082] The haze is measured using a Hazemeter, for example, the BYK® registered trademark Haze-Gard Plus 4725. The measurement is preferably carried out according to the standard method defined in the international standard ASTM DI003.
[0083] Preferably, the electroactive layer is mainly composed of liquid crystals and dichroic dyes, in particular at least 95% by weight of the liquid volume and at most 5% of additives (organic and / or mineral, including polymers) such as, for example, a chiral dopant. The liquid crystals have a predefined orientation in the OFF state governed by their interaction with the alignment layers (equilibrium orientation). In the ON state, when a preferably alternating voltage (for example, 60 Hz, with a peak voltage of 2 to 48 V, with a sinusoidal or square wave) is applied to the electrodes, the orientation of the liquid crystals as well as that of the dichroic dyes are modified: the light is therefore absorbed to a greater or lesser extent depending on the orientation of the dichroic dyes – the cell switches from a dark state to a light state, or from a light state to a dark state, in particular with a switching time of at most 1 second.
[0084] Examples of guest host cells are described in application WO2012047843.
[0085] The electroactive layer (the liquid volume) includes spacers which are in particular transparent or opaque, for example black, and / or which are point spacers and / or form an interconnected network, polymer-based, spacers in contact with the lower and upper alignment layers.
[0086] As point spacers we can cite balls (or cube or cylinder of base in particular circular), for example in glass, or polymer) for example of width of at most 100 or pm 50pm and even 30pm and of at least 8 or lOpm.
[0087] As spacers forming an interconnected network, a polymer-based network can be chosen, in particular photolithographed.
[0088] Thus, in particular the guest host cell can be a single cell or a set of sub-cells separated by separators forming an interconnected network (sub-cell of any shape, especially geometric: hexagonal or honeycomb, etc.), preferably polymer-based with a width of at most 100 pm, for example resin network (polymer).
[0089] The characteristic distance of a sub-cell (“pitch” in English) is for example from 100 to 20000 pm and / or the width of the interconnecting network is for example at most 200 pm to limit its visibility and preferably at least 20 pm (for its realization).
[0090] Examples of glazing with a set of host guest subcells are given in patent application KR20210051757A. Examples of electroactive layers are also described.
[0091] Furthermore, preferably at least in the clear glass area, said guest host cell (single cell or subcells) is segmented into several cell regions by at least one electrical discontinuity, in particular of submillimeter width, in particular tens of microns, (optionally with a dielectric filling material) formed in one of the upper or lower electrodes, in particular obtained by laser, each cell region having an electrical supply, in particular disjoint cell regions (single or set of subcells), of identical or distinct shape and / or size. The liquid volume is continuous and covers all the regions.
[0092] In particular for an opening side glazing, the regions are arranged so that the connectors (for example printed, flat so-called fpc in English) are in the lower part below the visibility limit.
[0093] An example of vehicle glazing with a segmented guest host cell is described in patent application WO2024012955.
[0094] More generally, the power supply of any guest cell can be done via a printed, flat connector and / or current supply strips (metallic), including wires, film, printed.
[0095] The thickness of the electroactive layer can be from 1 to 20 pm and even 5 to 15 pm.
[0096] In one embodiment, the guest host cell (segmented or not, single cell or subcells) (and even the carrier film if distinct) covers at least 90% or 95% or 100% of the clear glass.
[0097] In another embodiment, the guest host cell (segmented or not) covers an upper peripheral band (outside the "T zone") ("sun visor" for the windshield). In this zone, there may be means for extracting light for internal signaling.
[0098] Of course, one can also have several disjoint host-guest cells, for example of no more than 10 cm. Preferably, the host-guest cells (segmented or not) cover at least 90% or 95% of the clear glass area.
[0099] Depending on the intended application, the equilibrium orientation of the liquid crystals interacting with the dichroic dyes, the light and dark states will correspond to an ON / OFF or OFF / ON state of electrode energization.
[0100] Alignment layers give liquid crystals a planar or homeotropic anchoring.
[0101] Preferably the liquid crystals are in nematic phase (twisted or twisted, cholesteric). The liquid volume may contain a chiral agent or dopant.
[0102] Preferably the nematic to isotropic phase transition temperature of the electroactive layer is greater than 45°C, 50°C, 55°C, 60°C, 65°C, 70°C, 75°C, 80%, 85% or 90°C or 110°C.
[0103] Preferably the percentage by weight of dichroic dyes is less than the solubility limit, for example at most 10% by weight.
[0104] We can have several dichroic dyes.
[0105] For example, the absorption band is broad and flat (homogeneous) over at least 200 or 300nm in the visible range.
[0106] Preferably, the glazing is free of polarizing films.
[0107] A normally dark state of the glazing may be preferred when the light transmission is lowest in the absence of voltage, while by applying a voltage, the glazing will become clear.
[0108] Preferably, the alignment layers allow for planar anchoring (uniform, to minimize blur and homogenize switching time). In the OFF state, the (nematic) liquid crystals and dichroic dyes are (approximately) parallel to the plane of the glazing (or substrates). In the ON state, the (nematic) liquid crystals and dichroic dyes are (approximately) aligned with the electric field. In the ON state, the (nematic) liquid crystals and dichroic dyes are (approximately) perpendicular to the plane of the glazing.
[0109] Alternatively, the glazing can be in a normally clear state when light transmission is highest in the absence of voltage between the electrodes (OFF state), thus allowing vision through the glazing, while the dark state of the glazing corresponds to the application of voltage to the electrodes (ON state), causing a reorientation of the liquid crystals and a modification of the light transmission (the light transmission becoming lower). The alignment layers form a homeotropic anchor. In the OFF state, the (nematic) liquid crystals and the dichroic dyes are (approximately) perpendicular to the plane of the glazing.
[0110] In particular for a side glazing, especially an opening one, the guest host cell (9) has a dark state in the off or OFF state and a light state in the on or ON state, the alignment layers being homeotropic.
[0111] The lower and upper supports are for example flexible, polymer (PET etc) for example of no more than 200pm, or glass for example of no more than 400pm.
[0112] The guest host cell (single or set of sub-cells, segmented or not) has a first edge in particular set back from the first slice and / or the second slice, in particular all or part under a peripheral internal masking layer (enamel or ink) closer to the second face than the guest host cell, detailed later.
[0113] Furthermore, the guest host cell (single or set of subcells, segmented or not) may be recessed from the first edge of the first glass sheet and a peripheral external seal surrounding the perimeter of the first edge of the guest host cell, preferably an external seal which is a thermoplastic adhesive layer forming a frame layer, in particular is in contact with: - the upper interlayer, protruding from the edge of the guest host cell, external seal and upper interlayer are preferably PVB-based, - or in contact with the second face (bare or coated).
[0114] The external joint may include an opaque area, be an opaque frame.
[0115] The external seal is preferably offset, in whole or in part, from a pane of glass.
[0116] And possibly the external seal is in contact with: - the lower intercalated layer, protruding from the guest host cell, - or in contact with the third face (bare or coated).
[0117] The outer joint (clear, tinted, or opaque PVB), if sufficiently thick, can also form a frame layer (made of PVB, for example) of the coated substrate with a size identical to that of the guest host cell. However, it is preferable not to overlap their edges, favoring a coated substrate that is larger than the lower support (than the guest host cell).
[0118] The external joint is preferably wide by at least a few mm and preferably at most 1 cm.
[0119] Furthermore, the guest host cell may include an internal seal, preferably made of a cross-linked polymer (epoxy, etc.), surrounding (and in contact with) the electroactive layer and between the lower and upper supports. The internal seal is notably no more than 1 cm wide, preferably 2 to 6 mm. The external seal (preferably PVB-based) is preferably in contact with this internal seal.
[0120] It is preferable that this internal seal be concealed from the outside and even from the inside, in the visible part of the glazing – in particular a longitudinal (upper) edge and the lateral edges. An edge – in particular a lower longitudinal edge – of this internal seal (and even of the carrier film separate from the lower support) may be below a lower visibility limit of the glazing, for a side-opening glazing.
[0121] A side window opening in a road vehicle door is movable in translation relative to that door, substantially along the vertical axis, between an open position in which the window is located wholly or almost entirely inside the door and a closed position in which the window closes off a section of the door. In the closed position, this window thus creates a vertical separation between an interior space inside the vehicle and an exterior space outside the vehicle.
[0122] A seal can materialize the top of the door frame inside which the glazing slides, when the glazing is closed and even define the lower limit of visibility of the glazing.
[0123] Above the door seal, the vehicle door may have at least one frameless section. Thus, it is possible that the door: - does not have a front side pillar and that it is the adjacent bodywork section, otherwise known as the "A-pillar", that guides the glazing, and / or - does not have a rear side pillar and it is the adjacent bodywork part, otherwise called "the B-pillar" or "B-pillar" in English, that guides the glazing.
[0124] In an embodiment, particularly for a side (opening) window, preferably in the visible part of the window (predetermined or in the position mounted in the vehicle, in a door), the window includes means for masking the outside of the first edge and the internal seal and even the other second edge of the optical insulating coating, called internal masking means, and preferably includes means for masking the inside of the vehicle called internal masking means for the outside of the first edge and the internal seal.
[0125] The internal limit of the external masking means defines a clear window.
[0126] The external masking means comprise a peripheral internal masking layer, in particular opaque (black, grey, etc.), which is - a coating (opaque, black, grey) on face F2, in particular enamel, (in particular enamel on face F2) -or even a coating on the upper support (side face F2)-, or a coating (polymer, resin) on the upper interlayer (preferably PVB-based), - (and / )or an opaque interlayer (preferably PVB-based, black etc.) butted with the upper interlayer (preferably PVB-based), called short, set back from the first layer.
[0127] The internal peripheral masking layer, in particular coating (enamel) on face F2 or interlayer layer, can be 2mm or 3mm (less than 5 mm) from the edge of the glazing (first edge for example) or even up to the edge.
[0128] And preferably, the internal masking means include a peripheral internal masking layer, in particular opaque (black, gray, etc.). This layer may be: - a coating (opaque, black, grey), on face F3 or F4, in particular enamel, or a coating (polymer, resin) on an interlayer of laminate (PVB-based), under the lower support - in particular on a lower interlayer or a additional interlayer between the lower interlayer and the lower support or on an interlayer frame - (and / )or an opaque interlayer (preferably PVB-based, black, etc.) of the lamination interlayer, under the lower support, in particular an additional interlayer between the lower interlayer and the lower support or on an interlayer frame layer.
[0129] In particular when the carrier film is distinct from the lower support, an additional interlayer is shorter than the guest host cell and an opaque frame layer forms the peripheral inner masking layer.
[0130] The internal peripheral masking layer, coating on face F4 or interlayer layer, can be 2mm or 3mm (less than 5 mm) from the edge of the glazing (second edge for example) or even up to the edge.
[0131] Naturally, the internal masking layer is arranged so as not to interfere with the injection of light into the glazing or with the guidance of light, at least before the extraction means (and even including them). Therefore, the internal masking layer is absent from the light injection zone and the guidance zone, at least before the light extraction means (and even including them).
[0132] The glazing may be a side opening glazing (in particular sliding), especially at the rear, the internal seal and the other second edge having a lower longitudinal border below the lower limit of visibility of the glazing (in the mounted position), in particular defined by the door or even by a longitudinal (horizontal) seal, the peripheral internal masking layer comprises: - a longitudinal upper (internal) masking band (external), in particular horizontal, preferably coating on an intermediate layer or (enamel) on face F2 - or even one or two internal lateral masking bands, preferably coating on an intermediate layer, preferably coating on an intermediate layer or (enamel) on face F2.
[0133] And preferably the peripheral inner masking layer comprises: - an inner upper longitudinal masking strip preferably congruent with the upper longitudinal masking strip, preferably a coating on an interlayer or (enamel) on face F3 (or even F4) - or even one or more internal side masking strips preferably congruent with the internal side masking strip(s), preferably coating on an interlayer or (enamel) on face F3 (or even F4).
[0134] Preferably, the peripheral internal masking layer (the strip(s)) is opposite the electroactive layer by a maximum of 10 mm, 5 mm, or 1 mm, and preferably does not extend beyond the internal joint (its inner edge). And preferably, the peripheral internal masking layer (the strip(s)) is opposite the layer electroactive over a maximum of 10mm or 5mm or 1mm and does not even extend beyond the internal joint (its inner edge).
[0135] In the present invention, an optical density of at least 2 and / or a TL of at most 1% or even 0.1% is preferred for an opaque element.
[0136] Preferably, the width of the internal masking layer (upper longitudinal strip, side strips, etc.) – coating, opaque PVB – is at least 15 mm or 20 mm wide, and at most 40 mm wide for side glazing, particularly opening (and rear) glazing. Preferably, the width of the internal masking layer (upper longitudinal strip, side strips, etc.) – coating, opaque PVB – is at least 15 mm or 20 mm wide, and at most 50 mm wide for side glazing, particularly opening (and rear) glazing.
[0137] In the case of an opening side window, the peripheral masking layer does not need to be completely opaque. The tint of the internal peripheral masking layer (strip(s), frame) can be adjusted to match the tint of the clear glass of the side window in its darkened state. The tint of an intermediate frame layer (preferably PVB) can also be adjusted to match the tint of the clear glass of the glazing in its darkened state.
[0138] We can define with a colorimetric difference AE* between the lateral glazing with the invited host cell in the dark state in the clear glass and the internal masking layer which is given by the following formula: AE* = V (AL*2 + Aa*2 + Ab*2), preferably AE* being less than 4, better AE* less than 2.
[0139] The peripheral masking layer can form a frame, in particular a black one. Specifically, it is opaque around the entire periphery to hide bodywork elements or joints, or to protect an adhesive for mounting on the vehicle.
[0140] In particular, a light source for optical guidance, even with a light redirection element (reflective prismatic film or transparency), faces said internal peripheral masking layer. The optional internal peripheral masking layer is offset from the light injection zone and the useful light guiding zone.
[0141] The width of the internal peripheral masking layer along the sides of a road vehicle opening window may be different on the periphery.
[0142] For example: - the width of the internal (and even interior) masking layer along the longitudinal edges can be a maximum of 30cm, in particular 10-20cm, - the width of the internal (and even interior) masking layer along one lateral edge can be at most 40cm or 30cm, in particular at least 1 or 5cm, and along the other lateral edge at most 60cm or 40cm, in particular at least 1 or 5cm.
[0143] The width of the inner masking layer may be greater than that of the inner masking layer. In particular, the inner masking layer may be congruent with, or narrower than, the width of the inner masking layer.
[0144] The internal and / or internal peripheral masking layer in the form of a coating can be an organic or mineral binder (fused glass frit) with an organic or inorganic coloring agent, in particular a molecular colorant or an inorganic pigment.
[0145] The internal and / or internal peripheral masking layer in the form of a coating is preferably a continuous layer (flat with a solid edge or alternatively a gradient edge (set of patterns).
[0146] The internal peripheral masking layer in the form of a coating on face F4 may be adjacent to a possible functional coating on face F4, in particular athermal (low emissive), which is at least in the clear part of the glass.
[0147] The glazing can be single laminated glazing (preferably for a side opening glazing) or double (two interlayers of laminates).
[0148] In a first configuration, referred to as i), preferred—particularly for the side glazing for reasons of compactness—the coated substrate is laminated between the second and third faces F2 and F3, the second sheet having a refractive index n1 in the visible range, preferably being at least 1.48 and at most 1.6, in particular from 1.5 to 1.53, and in particular ng = n1 (the guiding layer includes and is even the second sheet, particularly in extra-clear glass). Preferably, in this first configuration i), the lower interlayer (preferably untinted, colorless, or in other words, clear) with a refractive index n3 in the visible range, is in adhesive contact with the third face F3 or with a functional transparent coating on the face F3 (in the clear range of the glass), in particular if n1 > n3, n1 - n3 is preferably less than 0.05.n2 is less than ni (and even n3), the difference in refractive indices nl-n2 being at least 0.06 in the visible, and better at least one of the following values: 0.07, 0.08.
[0149] In a second configuration, referred to as j), the vehicle glazing comprises a third sheet, made of mineral glass or polymer sheet, with a fifth principal face F5, a sixth principal face F6, and a third layer, having a visible refractive index n'1, preferably of at least 1.48 and at most 1.6, in particular from 1.5 to 1.53. The third sheet is bonded to the second sheet via another lamination interlayer comprising another upper interlayer and another lower interlayer in contact with the fifth face F5 and having a visible refractive index n'3. In configuration j), the coated substrate is between the other upper and lower interlayers of said other lamination interlayer. In particular, ng = n'1 (the guide layer comprises and is even the third sheet). The coated carrier film (of the substrate) is then relatively far from the third sheet. However, the third sheet can be a light extraction sheet (guided between the optical insulating coating and the extraction zone), for example, diffusing or textured.
[0150] The third sheet (preferably curved) is in particular at least 0.7 mm thick (to promote light guidance), possibly less than that of the first sheet of glass, even by no more than 2.2 mm - in particular 1.9 mm, 1.8 mm, 1.6 mm and 1.4 mm - or even by no more than 1.3 mm or no more than 1 mm. The third sheet is preferably made of extra-clear glass or highly transparent polymer.
[0151] Regarding the lamination interlayer, several configurations are possible.
[0152] The lower (clear) and / or upper (clear or tinted) interlayer, or any other interlayer, preferably a sheet, is thermoplastic or crosslinked adhesive material, preferably selected from polymers based on: poly(vinyl butyral), also known as PVB, or ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer, also known as EVA (thermoplastic or crosslinked), thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), or an ionomer. An example of a monomer resin is marketed by Kuraray under the registered trademark SentryGlas®. The lower (clear) and / or upper (clear or tinted) interlayer of crosslinked adhesive material is, for example, a polyacrylate sheet.
[0153] An interlayer (of lamination) may comprise a plasticizer that preferably contains triethylene glycol-bis-(2-ethylhexanoate). Other preferred plasticizers are carboxylic acid esters, in particular low-volatility carboxylic acid esters, fats, oils, soft resins, and camphor. Other plasticizers are preferably aliphatic diesters of tri- or tetraethylene glycol. 3G7, 3G8, or 4G7 are particularly preferred as plasticizers, the first number indicating the number of ethylene glycol units and the last number the number of carbon atoms in the carboxylic acid portion of the compound.
[0154] The preferably upper interlayer can be made of UV-resistant PVB, for example Eastman UV-resistant PVB, designated RU41, for example to protect the electroactive layer.
[0155] The lamination interlayer (one of the lower, upper, or additional interlayer layers) may be acoustic, in particular comprising or being made of acoustic PVB (three-layer, four-layer, etc.). Thus, the lamination interlayer may comprise at least one middle layer made of a viscoelastic plastic material with vibro-acoustic damping properties, in particular based on polyvinyl butyral and a plasticizer, and further comprising two outer layers of standard PVB, the middle layer being between the two outer layers. Acoustic PVBs described in the applications may be cited. patent WO2012 / 025685, WO2013 / 175101, notably tinted as in WO2015079159.
[0156] The upper interlayer may be tinted in particular with a light transmission known as TL of up to 73%, in particular tinted PVB.
[0157] An additional interlayer, between lower (clear) and upper interlayer, may be tinted in particular with TL of up to 73%, in particular tinted, or even of at least 13% (for example to integrate a functional film, the guest host cell).
[0158] Examples of commercial tinted films based on PVB and plasticizers and with inorganic pigments have, for example, TLs of about 6%, 13%, 27%, 73%.
[0159] The lower (clear) intercalated layer may in particular have a TL of at least 90% and better of at least 95% or 97%.
[0160] The lower interlayer (in particular PVB or even a cross-linked polymer adhesive) may be the same size as the coated substrate (a framing layer may be necessary depending on the thickness of the coated substrate, particularly from 100 or 200 µm) and / or the guest host cell, or be larger than the coated substrate and / or the guest host cell. The upper or additional interlayer or a framing interlayer may flow to protect the edges of the coated substrate.
[0161] In particular, in the case where the lower support carries the optical insulating coating, the lower interlayer (in particular PVB or even crosslinked polymer adhesive material) can be the same size as the guest host cell (a framing layer is necessary depending on the thickness of the guest host cell, in particular from 100 or 200 µm) or larger than the guest host cell.
[0162] And / or the upper interlayer (in particular PVB or even crosslinked polymer adhesive material) may be the same size as the guest host cell (a framing layer is required depending on the thickness of the guest host cell, in particular from 100 or 200 µm) or larger than the guest host cell.
[0163] An interlayer frame, preferably thermoplastic and even PVB-based (with or without plasticizers) can be one or more sheets depending on the thickness and / or the desired tint (clear and / or tinted or even opaque sheet)
[0164] The tinted spacer which is wholly or partly in the clear glass is preferably grey.
[0165] The frame interlayer outside the clear tinted glass can be grey, black (opaque or almost opaque), preferably thermoplastic and even based on PVB (with or without plasticizers) in particular the frame layer.
[0166] The laminate interlayer (or the other laminate interlayer) can be provided with an "all PVB" solution, in sheets, or a solution with PVB except for the lower interlayer layer of cross-linked adhesive (OCA), film. or coating, from a crosslinkable adhesive liquid resin, especially when the second sheet is made of glass (respectively the third sheet of glass) or polymer (PC, PMMA), especially with an index n3 (or n'3) greater than 1.42.
[0167] For this lower interlayer, we can cite as a crosslinkable liquid adhesive resin the acrylate-based adhesive resin for example in particular the product called UZ181A (refractive index 1.47) from the company AKChemTeck.
[0168] In another example of a lower interlayer in the form of a crosslinked polymer adhesive coating, a crosslinkable ultraviolet (UV) resin based on mercapto ester, the product known as NOA 65 from the Norland company, with a refractive index of 1.524, is deposited.
[0169] In another example of a crosslinked polymer adhesive layer in the form of a crosslinked polymer adhesive coating, a one-component UV-curable resin based on polyfluorene with an acrylate function is deposited, the product being named Shin-A SBPF-022 with a refractive index of 1.60.
[0170] The lower interlayer may comprise or even be a crosslinked polymer film in particular of at least 30pm or 40pm or 50pm.
[0171] In particular the lower interlayer is a pressure sensitive adhesive (PSA) film, which bonds by contact after the application of mechanical pressure.
[0172] In particular, the lower interlayer of crosslinked polymer is a crosslinked polymer film, in particular of at least 30 µm, which is preferably in adhesive contact with the third face F3 and, in particular: - pressure-sensitive film, preferably chosen from acrylate- or silicone-based polymers, - or a so-called post-adhesive film of partially photo-crosslinked polymer before assembly and photo-crosslinked (with continued photo-crosslinking) after assembly, and preferably a so-called post-adhesive film based on acrylate.
[0173] As an example of an acrylate-based PSA film, we can cite the product called CS986 (refractive index 1.49) from the company Nitto.
[0174] In the first configuration i) the lower laminated interlayer is in particular clear, in particular thermoplastic and / or crosslinked adhesive material, preferably selected from: EVA, TPU, PVB with at least 20% by weight of plasticizers preferably of a thickness of at least 200µm and at most 1 mm, or PVB with less than 20% by weight of plasticizers or without plasticizers preferably of at most 100µm and in particular of a thickness of at least 25µm, and the second sheet is of extra-clear mineral glass or PMMA or polycarbonate (PC).
[0175] In the second configuration j) the other lower interlayer is in particular clear and thermoplastic selected from: EVA, TPU, PVB with plasticizers of thickness of no more than 380pm, PVB or little or without plasticizers of thickness of no more than 100pm or 50pm and even of at least 20pm, and the third sheet is of extra clear mineral glass or PMMA or PC.
[0176] The laminated glazing according to the invention may include one of the following sequences (strict or open): - first glass sheet (tinted or clear with possible electroconductive coating, infrared (IR) reflector, UV filter element, etc. on face F2) / upper thermoplastic interlayer (PVB, TPU or EVA) / guest host cell / additional (clear) thermoplastic interlayer (PVB, TPU or EVA) or adhesive crosslinked polymer material (EVA, adhesive polyacrylate, etc.) / coated substrate / lower (clear) thermoplastic interlayer (PVB, TPU or EVA) or adhesive crosslinked polymer material (EVA, adhesive polyacrylate, etc.) / second glass sheet (extra-clear), - first glass sheet (tinted or clear with possible electroconductive coating, IR reflector on face F2 and UV filter element) / upper thermoplastic interlayer (PVB, TPU or EVA) / guest host cell / additional (clear) thermoplastic interlayer (PVB, TPU or EVA) or adhesive crosslinked polymer material (EVA, adhesive polyacrylate etc) / coated substrate / lower (clear) thermoplastic interlayer (preferably TPU or EVA) or adhesive crosslinked polymer material (EVA, adhesive polyacrylate etc) / second polymer sheet (PMMA, PC), - first glass sheet (tinted or clear with possible electroconductive coating, IR reflector on face F2, UV filtering element on face F2) / upper thermoplastic interlayer (PVB, TPU or EVA) or adhesive crosslinked polymer material (EVA, adhesive polyacrylate etc) / guest host cell / lower thermoplastic interlayer (PVB, TPU or EVA) or adhesive crosslinked polymer material (EVA, adhesive polyacrylate etc) / second glass or polymer sheet (PMMA, PC) / another upper thermoplastic interlayer (PVB, TPU or EVA) or adhesive crosslinked polymer material (EVA, adhesive polyacrylate etc) / coated substrate / another lower (clear) thermoplastic interlayer (PVB, TPU or EVA) or adhesive crosslinked polymer material (EVA, adhesive polyacrylate etc) / third glass sheet (extraclear).
[0177] For example, preferably: - first glass sheet (tinted or clear with possible electroconductive coating, IR reflective on face F2, UV filtering element) / upper thermoplastic PVB interlayer (clear or tinted) / guest host cell / additional (clear) thermoplastic interlayer (PVB, TPU or EVA) or adhesive crosslinked polymer material (EVA, adhesive polyacrylate etc.) / coated substrate / lower interlayer (clear) thermoplastic PVB or adhesive cross-linked polymer material (EVA, adhesive polyacrylate, etc.) with optional diffusing coating on the back face or face F3 / second glass sheet (extra-clear), - first glass sheet (tinted or clear with optional electroconductive coating, IR-reflective on face F2 and UV-filtering element) / upper thermoplastic PVB interlayer / guest host cell / additional interlayer (clear) thermoplastic (PVB, TPU or EVA) or adhesive cross-linked polymer material (EVA, adhesive polyacrylate, etc.) / coated substrate / lower thermoplastic interlayer (preferably TPU or EVA) or adhesive cross-linked polymer material (EVA, adhesive polyacrylate, etc.) / second polymer sheet (PMMA, PC), - first glass sheet (tinted or clear with optional electroconductive coating,IR-reflecting on face F2 and UV-filtering element) / upper thermoplastic PVB or adhesive cross-linked polymer (OCA) interlayer / guest host cell / lower thermoplastic (PVB, TPU or EVA) or adhesive cross-linked polymer (EVA, adhesive polyacrylate, etc.) interlayer / second glass sheet / another upper thermoplastic (PVB, TPU or EVA) or adhesive cross-linked polymer (EVA, adhesive polyacrylate, etc.) interlayer / coated substrate / another lower thermoplastic (PVB, TPU or EVA) or adhesive cross-linked polymer (EVA, adhesive polyacrylate, etc.) interlayer / third glass sheet (extra clear).
[0178] According to one embodiment, the coated substrate being laminated between the second and third faces F2 and F3 and distinct from the lower support, the lamination interlayer comprises an additional interlayer, the coated substrate being between the additional interlayer and the lower interlayer, and preferably in contact (adhesive) with the additional interlayer and: - the additional interlayer, is thermoplastic and even based on PVB or cross-linked adhesive material, is in contact with the lower support, - or the lamination interlayer has another additional interlayer, made of cross-linked adhesive material, in contact with the lower support and the additional interlayer, and the additional interlayer is thermoplastic and even based on PVB.
[0179] In a particular embodiment (of configuration i) – especially when there is no additional interlayer – the lower support (of the guest host cell) forms the carrier film, the optical insulating coating being on the rear face Fb of the carrier film. Alternatively, the coated substrate being laminated between the second and third faces F2 and F3 and distinct from the lower support, the second edge extends beyond the first edge, for example, by at least 1 mm or 5 mm and even by at most 10 cm or 5 cm or 1 cm.
[0180] In particular, (the coated substrate being laminated between the second and third faces F2 and F3 and ng=nl), the lower support forms the carrier film, the optical insulating coating being on the rear face Fb of the carrier film. The lower interlayer, clear in particular thermoplastic or of crosslinked adhesive material, is then preferably in contact with the optical insulating coating. If necessary, the lamination interlayer includes an additional interlayer, of crosslinked adhesive material, between the optical insulating coating and the lower interlayer, which is thermoplastic, clear, in particular PVB or even EVA.
[0181] More broadly, it is preferred that the optical insulating coating be on the rear face Fb of the carrier film.
[0182] According to one feature, at least one element is tinted among the first glass sheet, the upper interlayer of the lamination interlayer (or even the second glass sheet, and another upper interlayer of the lamination interlayer if there is a third glass sheet). The tinted layer of the lamination interlayer is, for example, made of PVB (polyvinyl butyral), notably tinted grey.
[0183] Any laminate interlayer can be thermoplastic or made of a crosslinked adhesive material, often transparent (designated as OCA for "Optical Clear Adhesive"). OCAs are notably of the acrylic, polyvinyl acetate (PVA), polyurethane (PU), or epoxy type. The transparent adhesive material (OCA) can be deposited in a solid, pressure-sensitive form (PSA film), or in a liquid form (LOCA) and cured during the lamination process, forming an interlayer after curing. In the following description, "OCA" refers to OCA deposited in either a solid or liquid (LOCA) state. The way in which liquid OCA cures depends on its nature; some OCAs cure, for example, by applying energy such as ultraviolet light, while others cure at room temperature with the addition of a hardener.
[0184] According to one characteristic, the upper interlayer and / or the lower interlayer and / or the additional interlayer are based on PVB (polyvinyl butyral), with or without plasticizers (preferably with plasticizers for the upper and additional interlayers). In a preferred example, the upper interlayer and the lower or additional interlayer in contact with the guest host cell are based on PVB, with or without plasticizers (preferably with plasticizers for the upper or additional interlayer). In particular, a PVB thickness of at least 0.3 mm and preferably at most 0.7 mm is chosen.
[0185] Advantageously, one of the upper and lower or additional interlayers in contact with the guest host cell is an adhesive layer of crosslinked polymer material (clear or tinted), and the other of the upper and lower interlayers in contact with the guest host cell is a PVB-based layer—with or without plasticizers (preferably with for the upper or additional interlayer)-. In particular, a PVB thickness of at least 0.3mm and preferably no more than 0.7mm is chosen.
[0186] In particular, the upper interlayer is in contact with the upper support, an interlayer of laminated contact, in particular lower or other layer, is in contact with the lower support bare or coated with at least the optical insulating coating and even surmounted by a diffusing coating: - one of the upper interlayer and the contact interlayer is an adhesive layer of crosslinked polymer material and the other of the upper interlayer and the contact interlayer is a PVB-based layer, - or the upper interlayer is a PVB-based layer and the contact interlayer is a PVB-based layer.
[0187] For example: - the upper interlayer, the lower interlayer and the additional interlayer are made of PVB, - the upper interlayer, the lower interlayer, and the additional interlayer are made of cross-linked polymer, - The upper and lower interlayers are made of PVB, and the additional interlayer is made of cross-linked polymer. - the upper interlayer is made of cross-linked polymer, the lower interlayer is made of PVB and the additional interlayer is made of PVB.
[0188] In the present invention, the expression crosslinked polymer refers to the family of thermosetting polymers in the broad sense (any crosslinking method).
[0189] A crosslinked polymer adhesive layer according to the invention can contain at least 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90%, 95% by weight of polymer(s) and even at most 20%, 10%, 5%, 2%, 1% of additives.
[0190] A crosslinked polymer adhesive layer according to the invention may contain a main polymer (or base polymer) of at least 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 90%, 95% by weight of polymer(s).
[0191] A crosslinked polymer adhesive layer according to the invention may include other additives (preferably less than 10%, 5%, or 1% by weight of layer) such as at least one of the following: - crosslinking agent for example photoinitiators (residuals), - plasticizers (for more flexibility), - adhesion promoters, - additives for durability.
[0192] The polymerization or even crosslinking rate of a crosslinked polymer adhesive layer according to the invention is not necessarily 100%; the material according to the invention may therefore contain residual prepolymers, monomers, and oligomers. Analysis can be made. using NMR (Nuclear Magnetic Resonance) the layer after crosslinking in order to determine the polymerization rate.
[0193] For example, for a frame layer, an example of opaque PVB containing black pigments is the product called RB 17830000 Vanceva absolute black® sold by Saflex.
[0194] In particular, the upper interlayer and / or the lower interlayer and / or the additional interlayer may be a cross-linked polymer adhesive layer, in particular of the acrylic, polyvinyl acetate (PVA), polyurethane (PU), or epoxy type. The transparent adhesive material (OCA) may be deposited in solid form, or in liquid form and cured during the lamination process.
[0195] Laminated glazing may include UV blockers or absorbers or UV reflectors filtering ultraviolet radiation, in particular to preserve the guest host cell over time.
[0196] Also in one embodiment, a UV filter is between the upper support and face F2; in particular: -is a (thin) layer on the Fl or F2 face of the first sheet of glass, or even on the upper support (F2 face side), -or is the upper intercalated layer.
[0197] When the UV filter is an interlayer, it is for example a film of polymeric material which is based on at least one polymer chosen from the following polymers: polyvinyl butyral (PVB), ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), polyurethane (PU), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyethylene, polycarbonate, polymethyl methacrylate, polyacrylate, polyvinyl chloride, polyacetate resin, acrylate, fluorinated ethylene propylene, polyvinyl fluoride, ethylene tetrafluoroethylene, cyclic olefin copolymer (COC), adhesive crosslinked polymer material.
[0198] The thickness of the polymeric film with UV filter function is preferably between 0.02 mm and 2 mm, preferably from 0.3 mm to 1 mm.
[0199] Advantageously, to further increase luminance: - the difference in refractive indices ng-n2 (nl-n2 or n' l-n2) is at least 0.08 in the visible range and preferably at least one of the following values: 0.09, 0.1, 0.11, 0.12, 0.13, 0.14, 0.15, 0.16, 0.17, 0.18, 0.19, 0.2, 0.21, 0.22, 0.23, 0.24, 0.25, 0.26, 0.27, 0.28, 0.29, 0.3, 0.31, 0.32, 0.33, 0.34, 0.35, - the thickness Ei is at least 800nm, 900nm, lpm and preferably less than or equal to one of the following values: lOpm, 5pm, 3pm, 2pm.
[0200] For mechanical strength (particularly if low-index nanoparticles and / or porosity are present in the optical insulating coating) and / or depending on product availability (less readily available at very low indices), it may be desirable to limit the difference in indices of refraction ng-n2 (nl-n2 or n' l-n2) and choose at most 0.2 or at most 0.15 and preferably at least 0.10, 0.11, 0.12, this in particular for ni or n'1 from 1.5 to 1.53 (with second or third sheet of glass).
[0201] The carrier film (and possibly a lower interlayer, second sheet or even another lower interlayer, third sheet) has a blur of at most 1°, or even 0.5° (outside areas with light extraction means). Inclusions and pinholes are preferred to be avoided.
[0202] In particular with ni of 1.5 to 1.53 in the visible (like a sheet of glass), in particular at 600nm and preferably from 500nm to 750nm and even from 380nm to 750nm, n2 and / or the average index n2m may be less than or equal to one of the following values: 1.42, 1.41, 1.40, 1.39, 1.38, 1.37, 1.36, 1.35, 1.34, 1.33, 1.32, 1.31, 1.30, 1.29, 1.28, 1.27, 1.26, 1.25, 1.2, 1.19, 1.18, 1.16, 1.17, 1.15.
[0203] In particular with ni of at least 1.55 in the visible, the refractive index n2 in the visible in particular at 600nm and preferably from 500nm to 750nm and even from 380nm to 750nm can also be less than or equal to one of the following values: 1.50, 1.49, 1.48, 1.47.
[0204] The optical insulating coating can occupy at least 80%, 90%, 95% and even 100% (not edged) of the surface of the carrier film (deposition face), in particular polymer film (and even thermoplastic), in particular which is the lower support (lower electrode).
[0205] The optical insulating coating can have good adhesion to the carrier film (substrate) according to the invention, preferably polymer (and even thermoplastic, in particular without plasticizer).
[0206] For example, the carrier film (which may be the lower support) preferably polymer (better thermoplastic especially without plasticizer and even polyester, PET) has on the deposition face (Fa or Fb) a smooth face, a low surface roughness (especially parameter Rz) of at most Ipm.
[0207] For better optical quality, the thickness Ei of the optical isolating coating varies by at most ±5%. The thickness Ei is preferably as low as possible to avoid high material costs without degrading the optical function.
[0208] The optical insulating coating is transparent but may be tinted or clear, in particular having (alone) a light transmission of at least 80% or at least 90%.
[0209] The optical insulating coating preferably extends throughout the entire clear (central) area of the glazing, its edge (called the second other edge) being notably under a masking frame layer (ink or enamel, opaque such as black, etc.) closer to face F2 than the latter, which is a solid opaque layer and possibly with discontinuous opaque patterns (gradient for more transparency towards the center), detailed later.
[0210] The optical insulating coating is preferably a continuous layer (mineral or organic or hybrid, in particular with low index nanoparticles, for example hollow silica) which occupies all the clear glass and even all or part of the coated Fa or Fb face.
[0211] For example the carrier film has, on the side of the light injection, a marginal area without the optical insulating coating of at most 4mm or 1mm (in particular frame or on one or more sides forming one or more marginal bands).
[0212] The optical insulating coating is, for simplicity, a monolayer but can be manufactured in one or more passes (by liquid method).
[0213] The optical insulating coating may be topped with a functional (over)layer, in particular a protective layer: a diffusion barrier and / or mechanical protection, for example, a film of at most 100 µm and at least 30 µm, or a coating of at most 10 µm. An optical insulating coating may be chosen with a matrix (organic, mineral) and low-index nanoparticles (or hollow and / or porous) with a dense overlayer (organic, mineral) of the same matrix.
[0214] Preferably, in particular to simplify manufacturing, on the carrier film, preferably thermoplastic polymer -or crosslinked-, the optical insulating coating can be organic, crosslinked polymer or thermoplastic, and the protective overlayer organic, for example thermoplastic or crosslinked polymer.
[0215] In a first embodiment, the optical insulating coating is on the rear face Fb, in particular the carrier film (substrate), in particular polymer and even PET, is clear or tinted.
[0216] In a second embodiment, the optical insulating coating is on the front face Fa - and the film, in particular polymer and even PET, - carrier, is clear, in particular has a refractive index n4 greater than n2 (and even than ng, n3 and ni or n'3 and n'1). For example n4-n2 of at least 0.05 or even one of the following values: 0.1, 0.2, 0.3.
[0217] The carrier film according to the invention, preferably polymer, not sticking to the glass, is in adhesive contact with the lamination interlayer (respectively with the other lamination interlayer) which links the first and second sheets (respectively second and third sheet).
[0218] According to one feature, the light injection (from one or more light sources) is, in a lower part of the glazing, under the optical insulating coating (i.e., in the direction of face F4). Preferably (in configuration i) injection into the second sheet and / or the lower interlayer or (in configuration j)) in a possible third sheet or even under the third sheet (especially via the F6 face, light refracted into the third sheet).
[0219] In configuration i), this injection of light can be via an internal wall of a (through) hole in the second sheet or with injection through the (second) slice of the second sheet (in particular the second glass sheet is shorter or has a recess to place the light source) or via the fourth face F4, light refracted in the second sheet, as detailed later)
[0220] In configuration j), this light injection can be via an internal wall of a (through) hole in the third sheet, or with injection through the (third) edge of the third sheet (in particular, the third glass sheet is shorter or has a recess to accommodate the light source), or via face F6, with light refracted into the third sheet. The third sheet can be locally textured or diffusing and even sufficiently thick to facilitate injection into it, for example, a polymer sheet (polymethacrylate PMMA, etc.).
[0221] The glazing may include (for light injection) one or more light sources (peripheral, adjacent and / or opposite edges, in particular longitudinal) including one or more series of diodes. Optionally, each series of diodes is coupled directly to the second (respectively third) glass pane - in particular via the edge or through the fourth face F4- (respectively F6) - or is coupled to an additional external guide for injecting light into the glazing, for example, an optical extraction fiber with a light exit zone along the edge of the second (respectively third) pane.
[0222] In the case of a side glazing, particularly an opening (sliding) one, a series of diodes called a longitudinal series is preferred (diodes arranged near the lower longitudinal edge, below the visibility limit preferably linked to the glazing and even linked to a main face F2 or F4). A longitudinal series of diodes can be in the form of several strips of diodes joined or separated (or even connected), preferably aligned.
[0223] In particular, the luminance extracted from the laminated glazing is at least 2 cd / m² and even at least 10 or 20 cd / m². The contrast (user experience) is improved in dark mode.
[0224] In particular, the light source placed opposite F4 (in the door) is at most 25mm thick.
[0225] Several light injection configurations (for guidance in the guidance layer) are possible.
[0226] In one embodiment, in first configuration i), the glazing may include a light source, preferably an array of light-emitting diodes, which is optically coupled with the guiding layer (preferably the second sheet of glass, preferably mineral): - by a light redirection element, -local-, reflective light redirection element and third main face F3 side or transparent light redirection element fourth main face F4 side, - by all or part of the second slice, - or by a wall of a hole (through thickness, closed) of the second sheet (or several walls of several holes), in particular a hole offset from a clear pane of glass, facing an internal masking layer.
[0227] In the case of light injection through the second layer, the light source is coupled to the layer of the second sheet, possibly in a through-hole peripheral notch. The light source may be housed in a polymer encapsulation as described in patent application WO2010049638, particularly in [Fig. 15] or [Fig. 16] of that patent application, and may even have a recess for removal or replacement of the source.
[0228] In the case of light injection via an internal wall of a hole, the second sheet, particularly one made of mineral glass, has at least one peripheral hole (through or even blind in thickness, open on the fourth face F4 at least) and the light source is coupled to the wall of the second sheet delimiting the hole, preferably housed within the hole. The light source, particularly diodes, may be in the hole, may be associated with an optical element (guiding the light) between the injection wall and the light source in the hole or inside the passenger compartment. Examples of embodiments described in patents WO2018 / 178591 or WO2013 / 110885 can be cited. The peripheral hole (through or even blind in thickness, open on the fourth face F4 at least) is concealed within the door for an opening side window.
[0229] Alternatively, in the second configuration j), the light source, preferably an array of light-emitting diodes, is optically coupled with the third sheet by all or part of the third slice, called the injection slice, possibly with a notch housing the source or preferably the injection slice (longitudinal or lateral), set back at least 10 mm and at most 200 mm from the second slice, thus leaving an area called the overhanging area of the second sheet, the light source being under or even fixed to the overhanging area.
[0230] In the case of light injection by offsetting the (each) light source to the passenger compartment side (side face F4 or even face F6 in configuration j)), preferably the peripheral light redirection element(s) (preferably prismatic) is: -reflector and third face F3 side in particular prismatic, comprising reflective prisms in particular oriented towards the third face F3 or towards the second face F2, -or transparent fourth main face F4 side in particular comprising a macroprism or transparent prisms, preferably prism(s) oriented towards the passenger compartment.
[0231] The (each) light source is then opposite or offset from the fourth main face F4 (or F6 in configuration j)) in particular direct optical coupling or via an optic, in particular light source and light redirection element offset by a clear pane of glass, facing an internal masking layer.
[0232] An optical element (collimation element, etc.) may be placed between the (each) light source and the fourth face F4 (or F6 in configuration j), in particular an optical element fixed to the fourth face F4 (or F6 in configuration j). The light source may be fixed to the fourth face F4 (or F6 in configuration j). The principal direction of the light source's radiation (before or after collimation) may be adjusted.
[0233] In particular, the coated substrate being laminated between the second and third faces F2 and F3, the laminated glazing comprises a light source, preferably an array of light-emitting diodes, which is on the fourth face F4 (and even on the face F6 for configuration j)), and coupled to a light redirection element (local, peripheral), -redirection in the guidance layer- which is: - a prismatic reflecting element, on the third face F3 side (and even on the face F5 side), particularly opposite the light source, including reflecting prisms oriented towards the third face F3 or towards the second face F2 (and even oriented towards the face F5 or towards the face F6), - a transparent redirection element on the fourth main face F4 (and even face F6), in particular prismatic, comprising prisms between the source and the face F4, or a (macro)prism adjacent to the light source (in particular diodes preferably with side emission).
[0234] The redirected light propagates between the fourth face F4 and the optical insulating coating.
[0235] For example, the (macro)prism is based on polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), polycarbonate (PC), polyamide (PA), cyclic olefin (COC, COP) (co)polymer.
[0236] A prismatic element (with microprisms) is preferred for reasons of space, particularly for a side glazing (opening).
[0237] The light redirection element is in particular on the third face F3 (in the first configuration i)) is in particular in contact with the lamination interlayer or with a local adhesive, in particular a prismatic reflective polymer film.
[0238] Preferably, in order not to generate stray light escaping towards the second face F2 and diffusing, (the inner edge of) the light redirection element (peripheral) which is transparent and on the fourth main face F4 (for example, a prismatic element comprising prisms or a macroprism, of triangular section, any other element: quadrilateral etc.) or is a prismatic reflector element (in particular a film) on the third face F3, comprising reflector prisms, in particular oriented towards the third face F3 or towards the second face F2, preferably offset from the guest host cell, and the light redirection element is: - at least partially opposite the optical insulating coating, - or at most 4mm, preferably at most 1mm, from the optical insulating coating.
[0239] - and / or the light redirection element is a prismatic reflector element, in particular prismatic reflective film comprising reflective prisms, arranged on the third side F3 between the face F2 and the face F3, which is offset from the guest host cell, distant from the first side of the guest host cell, in particular by at least 1mm.
[0240] Preferably (in the first configuration i)), the light redirecting reflector element is a prismatic reflector element, preferably above at most 30 pm of the coated face of the optical insulating coating or in the plane of the coated face or closer to the third face F3.
[0241] The base or the apex of the prisms of the reflective prismatic element, in particular reflective prismatic film, is preferably above at most 30pm of the coated face or in the plane of the coated face or closer to the third face F3.
[0242] The reflective light redirection element may comprise a prismatic (textured) film (with a smooth (non-textured, non-functional) main surface and a textured, functional opposite surface), flexible and therefore curved to adapt to the curvature of the laminated glazing. In particular:
[0243] -a partially structured transparent polymer film forming (micro)prisms -and with a reflective coating (metallic, silver, aluminum) forming a conforming deposit-
[0244] -or a transparent (planar) polymer film, forming a substrate, with on a main surface a transparent (polymer) layer with an arrangement of (micro)prisms and with a reflective coating forming a conforming deposit-.
[0245] The (micro)prisms (reflectors) are oriented towards the third face F3 or towards the second face F2 (in the first configuration i)). The reflective coating is thus oriented towards the third face F3 or towards the second face F2.
[0246] The reflective light redirection element (comprising a textured film, in particular a polymeric or prismatic film, or a substrate film, in particular a polymeric film and a textured or prismatic layer, as well as a reflective coating) can be bonded to the third face F3 directly or via at least one adhesive or held by suction (strong interaction), in particular by the pressure of the assembly (in the first configuration i)). The light redirection reflector element is for example placed on the third face and after air is drawn in, there is a suction effect.
[0247] The prisms may be of a height of at least Ipm and preferably of at most 100 or 50pm or 30pm.
[0248] The film, particularly the prismatic polymer or microprism substrate (prismatic layer, organic for example), can be less than 200 µm, 100 µm, 80 µm, or 50 µm thick, and even at least 30 µm thick. If the film is oriented (reflecting prisms) towards the third face F3, the substrate film can be tinted and even opaque or opacified. For example, it could be a PET film carrying the reflective microprisms, tinted and even opaque black.
[0249] Preferably the prismatic film has a total thickness of at most 500pm or even 400pm or 200pm or 100pm.
[0250] In particular, the light redirection element is a prismatic reflecting element, comprising reflecting prisms, in particular oriented towards the third face F3 or towards the second face F2, arranged on the side of the third main face F3, is: - on the third face F3 in particular in contact with the lower interlayer or a frame interlayer (clear) - in particular if the interlayer is the size of the coated substrate, - in the lamination interlayer, in particular based on PVB, - embedded in the lower interlayer, in particular based on PVB (with or without plasticizers) or in a frame interlayer (clear) around the perimeter of the coated film, in particular based on PVB (with or without plasticizers), - on the lower interlayer, between lower interlayers, in particular based on PVB (with or without plasticizers),and a clear or tinted upper interlayer (preferably with plasticizers), or a frame interlayer around the perimeter of the coated film, clear, tinted, or even opaque, particularly based on PVB (with or without plasticizers), - on the front face Fa, particularly in contact with the upper interlayer or an additional interlayer, or the rear face Fb, particularly in contact with the lower interlayer.
[0251] In particular, the light redirection element is a prismatic reflector element, which is a prismatic reflector film comprising reflector prisms oriented towards the third face F3 and bonded to the face F3 by a local adhesive.
[0252] Preferably the prismatic redirecting element (in particular comprising a polymer film and prisms) has a width (preferably less than the width of a masking layer) of at most 10cm or at most 5cm or even at most 2cm and better of at least 1cm and in particular of a length similar to that of the light source, linear (custom-made). This could be a rectangular strip with rounded corners, for example.
[0253] Microprisms (equipped with the reflective coating) act in particular as reflective prisms and reflect the light that strikes them in a direction which depends on the angle of inclination of the prism surfaces and the angle of incidence of the light.
[0254] For example, a prismatic film comprises a transparent thermoplastic (polymer) film, for example, based on polyethylene terephthalate (PET), on which transparent prisms are formed from a polyacrylate (a resin crosslinked, for example, by UV). A partially textured layer is preferred. For reflective prismatic films, a metallic layer (conformal coating), for example silver or aluminum, is added.
[0255] The transparent film of the prismatic film preferably has a light transmission of at least 70%, more preferably of at least 80%, very preferably of at least 90%.
[0256] Microprisms, for example, have a triangular cross-section. Prisms, for example, are contiguous.
[0257] For example, the total thickness of the prismatic reflector film is at most 500pm (in particular at least 30 or 50pm) and even at most the thickness of the lower interlayer and / or the coated film (substrate).
[0258] An optical element (collimation element, etc.) may be placed between the light source and the fourth face F4, in particular an optical element fixed to the fourth face F4. The light source may be fixed to the fourth face F4.
[0259] Each light source (diode array(s), in particular a longitudinal one) on the fourth side can be associated with collimating optics or a collimator. The light source, with an optional collimator, can be fixed to the fourth side, either by direct bonding or by spacing the light source and attaching it to a peripheral support fixed to the fourth side. The collimator is located in the optical path of the light source. The collimator generates a light beam from the generally divergent light beam of the light source with a beam path that is preferably essentially parallel, or at least a less divergent, i.e., more concentrated, beam path. The beam cone of the light source is thus narrowed by the collimator. The principal direction of the radiation from the light source can be adjusted, for example, to form an angle with the normal to the glazing, for example, 22° to the normal to the glazing.
[0260] The collimator can be made of glass or transparent plastic, in particular polycarbonate (PC) or polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA). The collimator is preferably fixed to the inner surface of the inner window, for example glued. If the light source is designed as an arrangement of several LEDs, a separate collimator can be provided for each LED. However, it is preferable to use a common collimator for the entire LED arrangement. For example, in the case of a linear array of LEDs (particularly a longitudinal LED strip), a collimator can be used whose length is at least equal to the length of the LED array.
[0261] An interlayer frame placed above any light redirection element (in particular a prismatic reflector element) may be tinted or even opaque, black in particular to mask any stray light. The frame layer may be locally opaque (in a band) or opaque around its entire perimeter.
[0262] The possible inner peripheral masking layer (facing F4) may include a space so as not to block optical coupling in particular to allow the rays from the light source to pass to the light redirection element in particular prismatic element and even reflector.
[0263] This redirecting film (transparent) is, for example, longitudinal in shape, in particular rounded at the corners, for example the length of the clear glass. This redirecting film may be of a thickness of at most 0.5 mm or 0.4 mm and in particular of at least 50 µm, 100 µm.
[0264] Each light source and each light redirection element, including prismatic elements and even reflectors, may be offset from the glass pane, facing an internal masking layer. The redirection element (including prismatic redirection film) and / or the light source is, for example, at most 100 mm from the glass pane and / or preferably at least 10 or 20 mm.
[0265] The outer edge of the light redirection element, in particular a prismatic element and even a reflector (in particular a prismatic film reflector), may be at least 10mm away from the first slice of the first sheet and / or the second slice, and even at least one of the following values: 15mm, 20mm, 25mm, 30mm.
[0266] In particular, for a guest host cell with a thickness of at least 0.2 mm, an interlayer frame (of the same material as the upper and lower interlayers), notably based on PVB (or, for example, pressure-sensitive thermo-crosslinked adhesive), surrounds and touches the first edge of the guest host cell and is between and in contact with the two upper and lower interlayers. This peripheral interlayer frame forms part of the lamination interlayer. For guest host cells with a thickness of 0.2 mm or less, the thermoplastic material can flow sufficiently.
[0267] Preferably for any guest host cell according to the invention, a thickness of at least 300 pm is preferred.
[0268] The first song of the guest host cell may be at least 10mm away from the first slice of the first leaf (or the second leaf) and even at least one of the following values: 15mm, 20mm, 25mm, 30mm.
[0269] In the configuration with a carrier film separate from the lower support, to avoid the risks of breakage, bubbling, and "co-wrinkling" or pressure on the electroactive layer), the first edge of the guest host cell and the second edge of the carrier film can be aligned but preferably to avoid a step due to the carrier film, the second edge extends beyond the first edge for example by at least 1mm or 5mm and even by at most 10cm or 5cm or 1cm.
[0270] And alternatively better cumulatively, to avoid the risks of breakage, bubbling, and "co-wrinkling", pressure on the electroactive layer), the reflective prismatic film (its inner edge) is preferably offset from the guest host cell (and even distant from the first edge), for example a preferred safety distance between the first edge of the guest host cell and the inner edge of the prismatic film is at least 1mm, 10mm, 20mm or in particular 30mm.
[0271] In particular, the extraction means possibly between the optical insulating coating and the face F3 opposite the lower support are of a thickness of at most 50pm.
[0272] Naturally the laminated glazing may include a light source in optical coupling with the guidance layer arranged under the optical insulating coating (further from face F2 than the optical insulating coating), and means for extracting guided light in the guidance layer, which are on the third side face F3 or face F4 in configuration i) or on the fifth side face F5 or face F6 in configuration j).
[0273] The (each) light source can be detachable, added, sold separately or as a kit.
[0274] The extraction means can be temporary (detachable stickers) and therefore added or replaced, in particular on the fourth side (respectively side F6), or permanent, in particular on the third side (respectively side F5).
[0275] The (each) light source is preferably an array of light-emitting diodes (on a printed circuit board such as a PCB for "printed circuit board" in English, for example flexible), in particular a straight or curved strip.
[0276] Preferably, the diodes are surface-mounted components on the front side of a printed circuit board (PCB) (with conductive traces). The width (or length) of a diode with a single semiconductor chip, generally a square diode, is preferably no more than 5 mm. The width of the PCB, in strip form, is preferably no more than 5 cm, better still no more than 2 cm, and even no more than 1 cm.
[0277] One or more light sources (peripheral, preferably offset from the glazing or clear glass), and several sets of diodes, may be used. The light source(s) may be monochromatic (emitting in blue, green, red, etc.) or polychromatic, or be adapted or combined to produce, for example, white light, etc.; they may be continuous or discontinuous, etc. The light source may be extended linearly (rectangular strip such as a diode array) along one side of the glazing (longitudinal edges) or split (with similar or distinct light, for example, different color intensity, driven independently or simultaneously) along both sides.
[0278] The means for extracting light may define at least a first diffusing zone, for example with a width of at least 0.5mm, in particular a first diffusing zone that is solid and / or comprising a set of discontinuous diffusing patterns.
[0279] Laminated glazing may include a plurality of diffusing zones of identical or distinct size and / or shape. The extraction zone may therefore cover part or all of the laminated glazing depending on the lighting or the desired effect (in the form of strips arranged around the periphery of one of the faces to form a luminous frame, logos or patterns, etc.).
[0280] The diffusing zone can be in several zones, for example each with patterns, identical or distinct, continuous or discontinuous, and can be of any geometric shape (rectangular, square, triangular, circular, oval, etc.), and can form a design, a sign (arrow, letter...).
[0281] Under the optical insulating coating (further from face F2 than the insulating coating), means for extracting light, guided light in the guiding layer, are for example in the form of: - laser engraving in the guide (mineral), particularly the second or third sheet of glass, - texturizing (acid attack on the glass, etc.), textured film (especially in the second sheet), - or diffusing coating (or film), preferably transparent, with a binder and diffusing particles, binder (organic, mineral or hybrid) preferably transparent with a refractive index n5 greater than or equal to ni or n3 or n'1 and n'3, in particular of at least 1.48.
[0282] The means for extracting light can thus be a frosted area of the second glass sheet (respectively of the third glass sheet) or at least an area engraved in the thickness of the second glass sheet (respectively of the third glass sheet) or even diffusing elements, such as glass particles or fibers, incorporated in the lamination interlayer or the other lamination interlayer.
[0283] Beyond the addition of the optical insulating coating (and an extra-clear guiding layer), there are various ways to increase the luminance performance of laminated glass: by adjusting the extraction methods (choice of transparency level, blur, and diffusing particle content) and / or the LED light injection. The transparency level is sometimes chosen based on a compromise between transparency and luminance level.
[0284] Optionally a diffusing coating forming the means for extracting light, preferably local or discontinuous (set of patterns etc) is opposite the invited host cell, and is on the lower interlayer in particular thermoplastic, in particular based on PVB (for example with plasticizers) - or the other lower interlayer thermoplastic, in particular based on PVB-, is in contact with the rear face Fb or better with the optical insulating coating.And / or the diffusing coating on a face oriented towards the F3 face and / or is carried by the carrier film and on the optical insulating coating and preferably in that the diffusing coating is on the lower interlayer which is based on PVB, the whole lower interlayer and diffusing coating having a blur of no more than 20%, the binder of the diffusing coating being organic preferably chosen from polymer based on polyacrylate, polyepoxides, polyvinyl acetate, polyester, polyurethane.
[0285] The diffusing coating on the lower thermoplastic interlayer can be in contact with the back face (Fb, bare or with undercoat) or with the optical insulating coating (on the Fb face) or even in contact with the F3 face.
[0286] When the extraction (light) means are a diffusing coating (printed ink) on an interlayer PVB or on the coated substrate rather than on the second (or third) glass sheet, it is easier to change the extraction pattern and tooling for printing on a flat film than on curved glass. For mechanical strength and especially for retaining glass fragments, it is also better to have the extraction on a coated substrate or PVB than on glass.
[0287] The diffusing coating, preferably transparent (in the off state), partially covers the lower interlayer (respectively the other lower interlayer).
[0288] For example, this diffusing coating (rear face side Fb) oriented towards face F2 is deposited on the lower thermoplastic interlayer (PVB) (respectively of the other lower thermoplastic interlayer (PVB)) and preferably occupies at most 50% or 40% of the glazing, or of the clear glass, or of the lower interlayer (respectively of the other lower interlayer).
[0289] For example, this diffusing coating is on face F3 or face F3 side of the lower thermoplastic (PVB) interlayer (respectively of the other layer lower thermoplastic interlayer (PVB)) and preferably occupies at most 40% or 30% of the glazing, or of the clear glass, or of the lower interlayer layer (respectively of the other lower interlayer layer).
[0290] The binder of the diffusing coating can be a transparent ink. The extraction means are, for example, a diffusing layer in the form of ink on a polymeric film (such as PVB with or without plasticizer) made up of the lower interlayer or another layer.
[0291] Preferably the entire diffusing coating on its substrate (second sheet, third sheet, lower interlayer) has a light transmission of at least 80% and a blur of at most 30%.
[0292] In particular, the laminated glazing includes, under the optical insulating coating, means for extracting light, comprising a diffusing coating, preferably transparent, with a binder and diffusing particles, binder preferably of refractive index n5 greater than or equal to ni (or even n3) or n'1 (or even n'3), in particular of at least 1.48.
[0293] In particular: - in first configuration i) the lower interlayer layer (thermoplastic such as PVB) or the second sheet is the substrate of the diffusing coating, (thus on face F4 or F3 or rear face side Fb), in particular possibly in contact with the optical insulating coating on the rear face Fb, - in second configuration]) the other lower interlayer (thermoplastic such as PVB) or the third sheet is the substrate of the diffusing coating, (thus on face F5 or F6 or rear face side Fb), in particular possibly in contact with the optical insulating coating on the rear face Fb.
[0294] For example, the binder of the diffusing coating is organic, in particular crosslinked polymer, chosen from polymer based on polyacrylate, polyepoxides, polyvinyl acetate, polyester, polyurethane, or even thermoplastic based on PVB, or even TPU.
[0295] The lower interlayer can be PVB-based and comprise 70% to 75% by weight of PVB, 25% to 30% by weight of plasticizer, and less than 1% by weight of additives. There are also PVB sheets with little (less than 10% or 5% by weight of plasticizers) or no plasticizer, such as the Optical Grade Thin Film from KURARAY.
[0296] When the diffusing coating substrate is the lower interlayer, a PVB-based substrate without plasticizers, or with a maximum of 15%, 10%, or 5% plasticizers, may be chosen. For example, the thickness of the lower interlayer forming the substrate is at most 200 µm, or even 250 µm.
[0297] An example of a diffusing coating on a polymer layer, in particular a laminate interlayer and based on PVB, is in document WO2021005162.
[0298] An example of a diffusing coating on a layer of PVB or glass laminate interlayer is in document WO2023285743.
[0299] For example, the binder of the diffusing coating is a polyacrylate polymer and the binder of the optical insulating coating is a polyacrylate polymer, in particular a polyacrylate with a fluorinated function and / or with low index nanoparticles or nanoporosity and / or hollows, especially if the coatings come into contact after lamination.
[0300] Preferably, the diffusing particles (dielectric, organic or mineral, for example metal oxides) have a particle size defined by D90 less than 2 pm, preferably of at least 100nm and even of at most 700 nm, in particular 400 nm ± 100nm.
[0301] Preferably, the scattering particles are chosen from non-luminescent TiO2, SiO2, CaCO3, ZnO, Al2O3, and ZrO2 particles. Preferably, the particles have a (high) refractive index, greater than or equal to 1.8 or even 2 (greater than n5, in particular, by at most 1.8 or 1.7).
[0302] Preferably, for the manufacture of the diffusing coating, a resin curable under ultraviolet radiation is chosen from among a reaction product between a thiol and an alkene (called thiol-ene), an acrylate such as epoxy-acrylate, polyester-acrylate, urethane-acrylate, silicone-acrylate alone or in a mixture of several of them.
[0303] The thickness of the diffusing coating is at most 100 pm, preferably at most 50 pm, and in particular at least 5 pm or 10 pm. The minimum may depend on the deposition method.
[0304] A thin profile reduces material costs, but the thickness can be adjusted to modify the visibility / luminance trade-off of the pattern.
[0305] Light extraction can be dynamic and the light source (diodes, straight strip in one or more sections) is driven to light up (for example gradually) patterns forming means of (geometric) extraction of the light guiding layer.
[0306] In particular, the diffusing coating is on the lower interlayer which is based on PVB (with or without plasticizers), the entire lower interlayer and diffusing coating having a blur of at most 20% or even 10%, the binder of the diffusing coating being organic (polymer) preferably chosen from polymers based on polyacrylate, polyepoxides, polyvinyl acetate, polyester, polyurethane
[0307] The glazing, in particular opening side glazing and preferably rear glazing, includes means for extracting light, preferably in the form of a diffusing coating on the lower intercalated layer, forming an internal luminous signal in the form of extraction patterns in particular: - of pictogram(s), - and / or a progress indicator (charge level of electronic equipment, the vehicle, or progress of a journey), through the progressive display of extraction patterns (geometric or even pictogram-based), internal illuminated signage located in a lower peripheral band of the glazing, extending horizontally, in particular by a maximum of 10 cm or 5 cm from the lower visibility limit of the glazing, and / or by at least 5 cm from a longitudinal light source, in particular a horizontal one, below the lower visibility limit of the glazing. The extraction patterns are therefore preferably equidistant from the light source.
[0308] In one embodiment, the glazing is in particular a side-opening glazing, especially a rear-opening glazing (single-layer laminated glazing), and the first pane has an irregular lower longitudinal edge with at least one projecting portion, referred to as the first overhang. The glazing includes a longitudinal light source, in particular extending horizontally below the lower visibility limit of the glazing, at a distance from a glazing fixing zone intended to be coupled to a window-lifting system, the fixing zone being connected to the first overhang. The longitudinal source is at least 5 cm long and includes means for extracting light into the glazing area, in particular in the form of a diffusing coating.
[0309] In a configuration of this embodiment, the inner glass is of reduced size, the second slice is straight, in particular horizontal, and below the lower limit of visibility of the glazing, the longitudinal light source is housed under the face F2 along the second slice for optical coupling by the second slice.
[0310] In another configuration of this embodiment, the second sheet has a second irregular lower longitudinal edge having at least one protruding portion called a second overhang opposite said first overhang, the longitudinal light source is linked to face F4 and the glazing preferably includes a light redirection reflector element on face F3 opposite the longitudinal light source, below the lower visibility limit of the glazing.
[0311] Below the lower visibility limit, the "height" of the glazing may vary longitudinally between the rear and the front, said height being between the visibility limit and the lower longitudinal edge. For example, this height is at least 10 cm and at most 80 cm.
[0312] The irregular edge has, for example, a centrally curvilinear section forming a downward-oriented concave profile and the fixing areas are peripheral.
[0313] The opening side window is linked to a window regulator (for the mobility of said window in vertical translation relative to a door of said vehicle). A side window drive device is selectively controlled by means of an element, such as a crank or a button, to move the window vertically relative to the door, respectively between a closed position and at least one open position.
[0314] To ensure the connection of a side window with the drive device housed in the door, a distinction is generally made between a first type of connection implementing a pinch assembly and a second type of connection implementing a screw assembly.
[0315] In the case of a clamp connection, the connecting means comprise, for example, a Y-shaped connecting piece or pair of connecting pieces, in other words, a glass holder, notably fixed by bonding to the glazing. Each connecting piece (called a "holder" in English) cooperates with each of the faces of the glazing, respectively inner and outer, said connecting piece being arranged in the vicinity of the lower edge located below the lower limit of visibility, i.e., in the non-visible area concealed within the door, in order to connect the side glazing to the drive device during movement.
[0316] In the case of a screw connection, the side glazing has at least one (protruding) fixing area, in particular central, sometimes two (protruding) fixing areas, in particular peripheral, which are made in the non-visible area located below the lower limit of visibility.
[0317] In laminated glazing used as side glazing, a particular type of glazing called "asymmetric" is distinguished, which is characterized by the fact that at least the shorter inner glass sheet does not cover the other glazing sheet(s) at the fixing area.
[0318] Thus, an asymmetrical glazing unit comprises an inner pane of glass that is not traversed by means of connection between the glazing and the drive device, since said inner pane of glass does not include any fixing holes. The fixing area(s) include at least one fixing hole provided through the glazing. The fixing hole opening onto both faces of the glazing is intended to receive connecting means, said connecting means generally comprising an axis connected to the drive device, for example, a threaded rod. Consequently, from a mechanical standpoint, the inner pane of glass in such an asymmetrical glazing unit is connected to the drive device only via the other panes of glazing, that is to say, indirectly via the interlayer due to the assembly of the constituent panes of the laminated glazing.
[0319] To do this, the opening side glazing may have one or more holes going through partially or totally the glazing, one or more attachment gutters or glass holders, one or more rails, or slides.
[0320] The opening side glazing may include at least one and preferably at least two glazing doors having, for example in cross-section, a substantially inverted U-shape or even an inverted h-shape. Parallel walls of the h-shape enclose the glazing in its lower part, and a tail is then substantially in line with the glazing.
[0321] This h-shaped glass carrier allows the transmission of forces between the glass carrier and the glass over a large area corresponding to the sum of the inner areas of the parallel walls; however, it is quite possible to use a simple plate, this plate having for example at least two parts: a first part for cooperation with the glass and a second part for cooperation with the glass drive mechanism (raising / lowering).
[0322] Since the glazing is curved, the parallel walls and / or the tail can be curved.
[0323] The glazing holder(s) is / are, for example, glued using an adhesive by An example of polyurethane is used, then "mounted" on the glazing, meaning that it is (or they are) positioned so that the glazing is present in the U-shape, either fully engaged or not, by inserting a plastic insert material, such as polypropylene, between the parallel walls and the glazing. In a variation, an in-situ injection of adhesive material is proposed to form the insert material, which is a thermoplastic hot-melt resin, for example, based on polyamide. The glazing supports used are, for example, metallic, made of aluminum alloy.
[0324] The thickness of the first sheet of glazing is preferably at most 4mm, or even at most 2.5mm, even at most 2.2mm - in particular 1.9mm, 1.8mm, 1.6mm and 1.4mm - and even at least 0.7mm thick, for example with a refractive index nv of at least 1.5 in the visible.
[0325] The second sheet (preferably curved) is in particular of a thickness of at least 0.7 mm (to promote light guidance where appropriate), possibly less than that of the first sheet of glass, even by no more than 2.2 mm - in particular 1.9 mm, 1.8 mm, 1.6 mm and 1.4 mm - or even by no more than 1.3 mm or by no more than 1 mm, the total thickness of the first and second sheets preferably being strictly less than 5 or 4 mm, even 3.7 mm.
[0326] The first and second leaves (and possible third leaf) may be of shape and size in particular substantially identical, for example general rectangular or quadrilateral shape (longitudinal edges not parallel), possibly rounded corners.
[0327] The first sheet may be larger than the second sheet, thus exceeding the second sheet on at least part (one side or several adjacent or opposite sides) of its perimeter, and possibly the second sheet (on the passenger compartment side) may be smaller with a second edge set back, in particular, by no more than 10 or 5 cm from the first edge of the first sheet of glass, on one or more edges (longitudinal and / or lateral), in particular, or around its entire perimeter. In particular, the second sheet is optically coupled by its second edge to a light source (as already described).
[0328] Alternatively or even cumulatively, the second sheet may be larger than the third sheet, thus exceeding this third sheet on at least one part (one side or several adjacent or opposite sides) of its perimeter, and possibly the third sheet (cabin side) may be smaller with a third slice set back in particular by no more than 10 or 5 cm from the second slice of the second sheet of glass, on one or more edges (longitudinal and / or lateral) in particular or on the entire perimeter, particularly useful when the third sheet is optically coupled by its third slice to a light source (as already described).
[0329] The layer thickness(es) between the second face F2 and the third face F3 (respectively between F4 and F5) being preferably at most 1.1 mm or 0.9 mm and in particular the thickness of the lamination interlayer (respectively other lamination interlayer) being at most 1.1 mm or 0.9 mm, at least in the guiding zone
[0330] The thickness between the first face Fl and the fourth face F4 (where applicable between Fl and F6) is preferably at most 9mm or 7mm, especially for a road vehicle.
[0331] The first mineral glass sheet may be based on silica, soda-lime, preferably silicosodocalcium, or even aluminosilicate, or borosilicate, and preferably has a total iron oxide content (expressed as Fe2O3) of at least 0.4% and preferably of no more than 1.5%.
[0332] To limit absorption (when the guiding layer includes the second sheet), the second mineral glass sheet may be, in particular, based on silica, soda-lime, silicosodocalcium, aluminosilicate, or borosilicate, and has a total iron oxide content (expressed as Fe2O3) by weight of not more than 0.05% (500 ppm), preferably not more than 0.03% (300 ppm) and not more than 0.015% (150 ppm), and in particular greater than or equal to 0.005%. The redox potential of the second glass sheet is preferably greater than or equal to 0.15.
[0333] The second sheet can be made of polymer in particular based on polyurethane (PU) typically with ni of about 1.47, polycarbonate (PC) typically with ni of about 1.59, poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) typically with ni of about 1.47, poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC) with ni of about 1.54.
[0334] The second sheet can be flexible to follow the curvature of the first curved or pre-formed sheet.
[0335] The first sheet of glass, and even the second and / or third sheet of glass chosen, can be produced by the "float" process allowing to obtain a perfectly flat and smooth sheet, or by drawing or rolling processes.
[0336] Examples of glass include float glass of classic soda-lime composition, possibly hardened or tempered by thermal or chemical means, aluminum or sodium borosilicate or any other composition.
[0337] The clear area of the laminated glazing is a central zone.
[0338] The lamination interlayer can occupy at least 70%, 80%, 90%, 95% or even 100% of the glazing surface.
[0339] The second face F2 can be the tin face (of the float glass) or the opposite face or the first face Fl can be the tin face.
[0340] The third face F3 can be the tin face or the fourth face F4 can be the tin face. The fifth face F5 can be the tin face or the sixth face F6 can be the tin face.
[0341] Regarding the guest host cell, the lower and / or upper electrode comprises (or is) for example a conductive metal oxide layer or a silver-based layer, for example, a multilayer coating. The electrode (lower and / or upper) is in particular a multilayer electroconductive coating, which is a stack of functional layer(s) that are a transparent conductive oxide, for example ITO, IZO, AZO, SnO2:F or a metallic oxide (silver, etc.), the functional layer(s) being generally interposed between dielectric layers based on oxides, nitrides and / or nitride oxides on the so-called front face oriented towards the electroactive layer. In particular, the lower and upper electrodes (coatings) are of the same nature and even of the same thickness and / or the lower and upper supports are of the same nature (glass or polymer) and even of the same thickness.
[0342] Furthermore, laminated glazing may include at least one of the following functional elements: - an internal electroconductive coating, in particular infrared reflective (solar control), such as a stack of silver layer(s), on the second face F2 on the first, clear sheet, or on an additional film, in particular polymer, or even on the upper support, - an external electroconductive coating, in particular one that reflects infrared radiation (low emissivity), such as a transparent conductive oxide (TCO) layer stack (especially one based on indium tin oxide (ITO)), in fourth face F4 of the second mineral glass sheet (in first configuration i)), or sixth face F6 of the third mineral glass sheet (in second configuration j)).
[0343] The laminated glazing according to the invention can therefore also include a layer reflecting or absorbing infrared, on face F2 or on a transparent polymer film (PET etc) between two interlayer layers or even on the upper support, in particular a stack of thin layers comprising at least one metallic layer such as silver (and even 2 or 3 or 4), the or each silver layer being arranged between dielectric layers on face F2 or at ITO for face F4 or F6.
[0344] Examples of ITO stacking for face F4 or F6 include those described in US patent 2015 / 0146286, on face F4, particularly in examples 1 to 3.
[0345] An infrared-reflective coating is also known in patent application WO2018 / 206236 and in particular: - a dielectric coating comprising dielectric layers such as silicon nitride and / or silicon oxide layers, - a functional layer based on a transparent conductive oxide (TCO) such as an indium tin oxide (ITO) layer, - a dielectric coating comprising dielectric layers such as silicon nitride and silicon oxide layers.
[0346] The invention also relates to a road vehicle incorporating the aforementioned illuminable laminated glazing of the invention, in particular the laminated glazing being an opening side glazing and even rear glazing.
[0347] In this application, the term "road vehicle" means a car, in particular a utility vehicle (van, light van, delivery van) under 3.5 tonnes (light utility vehicle) or a truck or a shuttle, small public, private or public transport vehicle.
[0348] Other details and advantageous features of the invention will become apparent from the examples according to the invention illustrated in the following figures. The illuminateable laminated glazing units in all figures 1 to 15 are operable glazing units, in particular operable side glazing units.
[0349] Fig. 1 represents a schematic cross-sectional view of an illuminable laminated glazing opening 100 of a road vehicle according to the invention, such as a rear side glazing and also showing a detail view of a light redirection reflector element (also referred to in the description as a "prismatic reflector film" thus used to redirect light).
[0350] Fig. 1a shows a schematic cross-sectional view of an example of a host-guest cell, inserted into the laminated glazing of Fig. 1 and having an internal seal. [Fig.lb] represents a schematic cross-sectional view of an alternative host-guest cell with an external seal.
[0351] Figures 1 to 1g each represent a schematic front view of an illuminable laminated road vehicle glazing forming a side window preferably opening at the rear.
[0352] at 1g.
[0353] Figure [Fig. 2] represents a schematic cross-sectional view of laminated glazing illuminable opening 200 of road vehicle according to a second embodiment compared to the glazing of [Fig.l].
[0354] Figure 3 represents a schematic cross-sectional view of laminated glazing illuminable 300 road vehicle according to a third embodiment with regard to an alternative embodiment. [Fig.3'] illustrates a schematic front view of a rear opening side window with the laminated glazing 300 of [Fig.3].
[0355] Figure 4 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of laminated glazing illuminable 400 of road vehicle according to the invention in a fourth embodiment.
[0356] Figure 5 represents a schematic cross-sectional view of laminated glazing illuminable 500 of road vehicle according to the invention in a fifth embodiment.
[0357] [Fig.5'] represents a schematic cross-sectional view of an illuminable laminated glazing 500 road vehicle according to the invention in a variant of the fifth embodiment.
[0358] Figure 6 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of a side-laminated glazing Illuminatable opening 600 of road vehicle according to the invention in a sixth embodiment. [Fig.6'] represents a schematic front view of the glazing of the [Fig.6].
[0359] Figure 7 represents a schematic cross-sectional view of laminated glazing illuminable 700 of road vehicle according to the invention in a seventh embodiment, and shows a detailed view of the prismatic reflector film used to redirect light into the glazing.
[0360] Figure 8 represents a schematic cross-sectional view of laminated glazing illuminable 800 of road vehicle according to the invention in an eighth embodiment.
[0361] Figure 9 represents a schematic cross-sectional view of laminated glazing illuminable 900 of road vehicle according to the invention in a ninth embodiment.
[0362] Figure 10 represents a schematic cross-sectional view of laminated glazing illuminable 1000 road vehicle according to the invention in a tenth mode of embodiment in which the optical insulating coating is carried by the rear face of the guest host cell
[0363] [Fig.10'], [Fig.10”] and [Fig.10’”] each represent a schematic cross-sectional view of an illuminable laminated road vehicle glazing according to the invention in variants of the tenth embodiment.
[0364] Fig. 11 represents a schematic cross-sectional view of an illuminable laminated glazing 1100 of a road vehicle according to the invention in an eleventh embodiment.
[0365] Fig. 12 represents a schematic cross-sectional view of a 1200 illuminateable laminated road vehicle glazing according to the invention in a twelfth embodiment.
[0366] Fig. 13 represents a schematic cross-sectional view of an illuminable laminated glazing 1300 of a road vehicle according to the invention in a thirteenth embodiment and with a third sheet.
[0367] Fig. 14 represents a schematic cross-sectional view of a 1400 illuminateable laminated road vehicle glazing in a fourteenth embodiment.
[0368] Fig. 15 represents a schematic cross-sectional view of a 1500 illuminateable laminated road vehicle glazing in a fifteenth embodiment.
[0369] Fig. 16 represents a view of a road vehicle with various luminous and variable tint laminated glazing.
[0370] It is specified that for the sake of clarity the different elements of the objects represented are not necessarily reproduced to scale.
[0371] Fig. 1 represents a schematic cross-sectional view, here lateral, of an illuminable laminated glazing 100 according to the invention, here forming a vehicle opening in a first embodiment.
[0372] This is a 100-opening illuminateable laminated car window, rectangular or substantially rectangular for figures le, Id and 1g and curved (along one or more directions).
[0373] The 100° opening illuminateable laminated glazing comprises: - a first sheet of glass 1, for example rectangular (with dimensions 1600X1100 mm for example), with a first main face 11 corresponding to face Fl, a second main face 12 called face F2 and a first slice (with edges or longitudinal slices 10 and 10'), face F2 being able to be coated as in [Fig.9] with a transparent functional coating 16 (reflecting etc.) (silver stacking), the whole glass and coating having a TL of 72% (91% without the coating 16), - a second transparent sheet, preferably mineral glass, 2, here of the same shape and dimensions as the first sheet 1, forming internal glazing, on the passenger compartment side, presenting a third principal face 13 or face F3, a fourth principal face 14 or face F4, and a second slice (with edges or longitudinal slices 20 and 20'), and of index ni, - between face F2 and face F3, a transparent laminate interlayer 3, with an edge here aligned or recessed from sheets 1,2, in particular longitudinal edge 30 offset from longitudinal edges 10, 10' towards the center of the glass (therefore recessed), here comprising: an upper interlayer 31 polymeric adhesive, in adhesive contact with face F2 of the first glass sheet 1, for example based on PVB (with plasticizers, at least 30% by weight), PVB for example clear from TL to 99.9%, - a lower interlayer 32 polymeric adhesive, clear (as transparent as possible and with as few optical defects as possible), of 0.38mm or 0.76mm (in one or two sheets) in adhesive contact with face F3, of refractive index n3 of approximately 1.48 at 600nm, for example based on PVB (with plasticizers, for example at least 10% and possibly at most 30% or 20% by weight), clear from TL to 99.9%, - preferably at least one light source 4 (diodes 4 on PCB support 40), - an optical insulating layer consisting of an optical insulating coating 5 on a carrier film 50, - preferably in the laminate interlayer 3, an additional interlayer layer 33, preferably tinted, grey, in particular based on PVB (with plasticizers, at least 30% by weight), and - preferably means of light extraction 6 (guided here in the second glass sheet 2 and also in the lower intercalated layer 32), in particular in the form of a discontinuous or local diffusing coating (in [Fig.1], there is only one extraction pattern 6), - preferably an internal masking element or layer 7 forming a masking frame, - preferably a light redirection element 8, here internal and reflector and - a guest host cell 9 guest host cell, isolated by the insulating coating 5 of the second glass sheet.
[0374] The second glass sheet (inner glass) 2 is for example a sheet of silicosodocalcic glass, extra clear such as Diamant glass marketed by the company Saint-Gobain Glass of TL of at least 91%, of thickness equal for example to 2.9 mm, glass of refractive index ni of the order of 1.52 at 600nm or Optiwhite glass of 1.95mm, or Sunmax glass of 2.05mm.
[0375] The first sheet of glass (outer glass) 1 is clear, in particular a 2.1mm Planiclear glass or even extra clear like the first sheet.
[0376] Alternatively, the outer glass 1 is with a tinted composition whose tint will be adjusted to suit (for example Venus VG10 or TSA 3+ or 4+ glass marketed by the company Saint-Gobain Glass.
[0377] The upper polymeric adhesive interlayer 31 is preferably PVB-based (with plasticizers, at least 30% by weight). The upper interlayer 31 is 0.38 mm or 0.76 mm thick (in one or two sheets). The upper interlayer 31 is clear or, alternatively, tinted, for example, 27% TL gray.
[0378] Alternatively, the upper interlayer 31 is based on crosslinked polymer adhesive material (OCA), for example polyacrylate, polyvinyl acetate (PVA), polyurethane (PU), or epoxy.
[0379] The lower polymeric adhesive interlayer 32 is for example based on PVB (with plasticizers, at least 30% by weight), clear (as transparent as possible and with as few optical defects as possible), 0.38mm or 0.76mm (in one or two sheets) in adhesive contact with face F3, with a refractive index n3 of about 1.48 at 600nm, for example PVB with a TL of 99.9%.
[0380] By way of example, the lower interlayer 32 is based on clear PVB with little or no plasticizers, for example less than 20% by weight of plasticizers such as Eastmann's PVBRM11 or even less than 5% by weight, in particular Kuraray film called Optical grade Thin Film for example with a thickness of at most 25pm.
[0381] Alternatively, the lower interlayer 32 is based on crosslinked polymer adhesive material (OCA), in particular film, preferably polyacrylate adhesive in particular of at least 25 or 30 µm or it is an adhesive coating (polyacrylate, etc.) obtained by deposition on the third face F3 or on the coated substrate or deposited between the third face F3 and the coated substrate (by filling).
[0382] For example, the additional interlayer 33 is made of PVB (with plasticizers, at least 30% by weight) in particular of thickness 0.38mm or 0.76mm (in one or two sheets) or based on crosslinked polymer adhesive material (OCA), in particular adhesive polyacrylate film.
[0383] At least one of the interlayers 3133 may be a dyed PVB.
[0384] By way of examples of gray-tinted PVB (according to shades of gray), certain PVB Having acoustic properties in addition, we can cite the commercial products listed in Table 2 below. Table 2 shows the L, a*, and b* values of laminated glazing with PVB sandwiched between two 2.1 mm sheets of Saint-Gobain Planilux glass, as well as the TL of such glazing.
[0385] [Tables2] Manufacturer Trade name Thickness L* a* b* TL Eastman RB47 273600 0.76 mm 70.20 -3.30 1.40 41 + 2% Eastman QM47 3518S1 0.76 mm 48.80 -4.30 1.30 18 + 2% Eastman RB47 352700 0.76 mm 59.20 -3.50 2.30 27 + 2% Eastman QP57 562300 0.81 mm 55.19 0.78 0.84 23 + 2% Eastman QE57 562300 0.81 mm 55.19 0.78 0.84 23 + 2% Eastman RB 17 654400 0.38 mm 72.60 0.90 -4.00 44.5 + 3% Sekisui SEK NOR RZN10 #7 018 0.76 mm 45.0-55.0 -7.0-1.0 -1.0-7.0 18 + 2% Sekisui SEK SAFRZN12#7 018 0.76 mm 45.0-55.0 -7.0-1.0 -1.0-7.0 18 + 2% Sekisui SEK NOR SE / HE12 # 7302 0.76 mm 5.0-25.0 -8.0-2.0 0.5 - 6.5 1.6+1 % Sekisui SEK SAFRZN12#7 302 0.76 mm 5.0-25.0 -8.0-2.0 0.5 - 6.5 1.6+1%
[0386] In the case of an OCA for the lower interlayer, the OCA has a higher refractive index than the PVB.
[0387] An example of an OCA is the combined product Koeraclear 2044 and Koeracur TH360 (two-component liquid PU) marketed by HB Fuller-Kömmerling, with an index of 1.48. Another example of an OCA is the product Photobond OC4022 (liquid acrylate) marketed by Delo, with an index of 1.482.
[0388] Preferably, the laminated glazing includes an IR 15 reflective coating on face F4, forming a low emissivity layer.
[0389] The infrared-reflecting coating 15, transparent, single-layer or multi-layer, comprises at least one electrically conductive functional layer, for example of a transparent conductive oxide, in particular ITO. The infrared-reflecting coating preferably comprises a dielectric sublayer, in particular silicon (oxy)nitride, and preferably comprises a dielectric toplayer, in particular silicon (oxy)nitride.
[0390] The internal masking layer 7 of the opening side glazing forms a masking frame delimiting a glazed area 70 (daylight), here rectangular (see [Fig. lg]) with straight edges. The masking frame 7 hides the edge of the components, including the guest host cell and the coated substrate. Any local modification of the edges 70 is possible (gradient of dots, wider area, etc.). For example, the internal masking layer 7 is: - a black enamel on face F2, - or a black ink, on one of the faces of the upper interlayer, preferably the face oriented towards face F2, preferably a PVB-based ink with black pigments if the upper interlayer 31 is PVB, and such that the masking width is at least 2 cm, in particular: - the masking width at the front (front lateral edge side 10a) is, for example, from 10 to 40cm, - the masking width at the rear (rear side edge 10b) is, for example, from 5 to 25cm, - the masking width on the long sides (longitudinal edges) is for example 5 to 20 cm, identical or different width for the two long sides.
[0391] The guest host cell 9 is arranged between the upper interlayer 31 and lower interlayer 32. Since the thickness of the guest host cell 9 is 0.4 mm, an interlayer frame layer 34, 0.38 mm thick, made of PVB, clear, tinted, or even opaque, is added. The edges of the guest host cell 9 are below the internal masking frame layer 7.
[0392] Outside the injection zone, the edge of the guest host cell 9 is at least 10 mm or 15 mm from the edge of the glazing. The internal masking frame layer 7 (e.g., opaque PVB) is of a width adapted accordingly and can extend to be flush with the edge of the glazing.
[0393] As shown in the example of [Fig. 1a], the guest host cell 9 comprises: - an upper support 91 (polymer or glass) with an upper electroconductive coating 92 (for example ITO) on the second face F2, surmounted by an upper alignment layer 94 for planar (uniform) anchoring, - a lower support 91' (polymer or glass) with a lower electroconductive coating (for example ITO) 92' on the third face F3, surmounted by a lower alignment layer 94' for planar (uniform) anchoring, - an electroactive layer 93 which forms a liquid volume containing liquid crystals mixed with dichroic dyes, and glass spacers 93' for example of 12 µm, and the lower and upper alignment layers 94 and 94' in contact with respectively the first and second electroconductive coatings 92 and 92' and the electroactive layer 93,- an internal peripheral (sealing) gasket 95 which provides a seal for the host cell, for example polymer, particularly epoxy resin or silicone.
[0394] The supports 91 and 91' of the polymeric guest host cell 9, for example, are made of PET.
[0395] Preferably, if made of glass, one or both supports 91 and 91' are made of chemically tempered glass. Each of the supports 91 and 91' has a thickness of less than 1000 µm, in particular between 25 µm and 700 µm, preferably a thickness less than 300 µm, or even less than 200 or 100 µm. The glass thickness of each support is sufficiently thin to provide the host-guest cell with film-like flexibility when associating the cell with the glass sheets 1 and 2, especially when these are curved. In particular, the glass thickness of each of the supports 91 and 91' is such that each glass support has a minimum radius of curvature that is at least on the order of 600 mm and can even reach 200 mm.
[0396] The internal joint 95 is, for example, 5mm. It is generally preferable to conceal this joint from the outside and even from the inside.
[0397] Fig. 1b is a schematic cross-sectional view of a guest host cell 9 which differs from that of Fig. 1a in that the peripheral sealing joint 95 is external, not between the two supports 91 and 91'.
[0398] When an alternating voltage (of the order of 30 V) is applied between the electroconductive coatings 92 and 92', the liquid crystals and the dichroic dyes align themselves according to the electric field.
[0399] Preferably, the OFF state of the guest host cell 9 corresponds to the dark state of the laminated glass 1. In the example of [Fig. 1], the laminated glass 1 is thus normally dark in the absence of voltage, and it is light when a DC voltage is applied. The transition from the dark state to the light state and vice versa is instantaneous; in particular, the duration of this state transition is 75 ms at 20°C.
[0400] According to a particular stacking of the components of the laminated glazing, mainly dictated by the guest host cell, the light transmission (TL) changes for example from 5% in the dark state to more than 35% in the light state.
[0401] To optically isolate a lower portion (with light guide and light extraction) from the upper portion (tinted, absorbent), the laminated glazing 100 comprises the optical insulating coating 5 on one face of a transparent film 5' called the carrier film. The entire optical insulating coating 5 and the carrier film 5' are referred to as the coated substrate. The optical insulating coating 5 is on the rear face Fb 52' (side face F3) of the carrier film 5', as illustrated in [Fig. 1]. Alternatively, the optical insulating coating 5 can be on the front face Fa 51' (side face F2) of the carrier film 5', as illustrated in [Fig. 9], which is described later. The face of the carrier film containing the optical insulating coating 5 is called the coated (or deposition) face. The coated substrate 5',5 is in adhesive contact with the additional interlayer 33 and the lower interlayer 32.The coated substrate extends throughout the clear glass and beyond, the second edge and the other second edge 50, 50' being under the masking layer 7.
[0402] The coated substrate 5, 5' is always disposed between the guest host cell 9 and the second glass sheet 2 or between the guest host cell 9 and a third glass sheet 2' when the glazing comprises three glass sheets.
[0403] In a first configuration i) which is illustrated in [Fig.1] and in which the glazing comprises only two sheets of glass 1 and 2, the coated substrate 5, 5' is laminated between the second and third faces F2 and F3 (between the first sheet of glass 1 and the second sheet of glass 2), the second sheet of glass having a refractive index ni, preferably of at least 1.48 and at most 1.6, in particular from 1.5 to 1.53.
[0404] Preferably, the coated substrate 5',5 is between the additional interlayer 33 and the lower interlayer 32 and even in contact with the additional interlayer 33 and / or the lower interlayer 32.
[0405] The coated substrate 5', 5 is set back from the sheets 1, 2, particularly from the longitudinal edges 10, 10', 20, 20', by a distance ds (Figures 1 and 3) of at least 10 mm. The carrier film 5' and even the coated substrate are here less than 200 µm thick, or even at most 100 µm, and are protected at their periphery by one or both of the lower and upper interlayers 31, 32 (particularly during lamination). If the upper interlayer is light-colored, the interface between the two lower and upper interlayers 31, 32 may be indistinguishable.
[0406] The carrier film 5' is preferably made of polymer and is distinct from a fluoropolymer and even from an optically crosslinked adhesive layer (OCA). The carrier film 5' is transparent but may be tinted.
[0407] The optical insulating coating 5 is made of a material, preferably a polymer, comprising a matrix distinct from a fluoropolymer (and even from a cross-linked adhesive material), of submillimeter thickness Ei, of at least 400 nm and preferably 500 nm or 800 nm, and another second edge 50, optionally recessed from the second edge of the film 50' without compromising the optical insulating function. The optical insulating coating 5 may be directly or on a functional sublayer (barrier, etc.), transparent to the carrier film 5'.
[0408] The optical insulating coating 5 is transparent clear or optionally tinted.
[0409] The optical insulating coating 5 is in a material comprising a matrix distinct from a fluoropolymer.
[0410] The optical insulating coating 5 has a refractive index n2 in the visible and with nl-n2 which is at least 0.04 in the visible and even at least 0.08 or 0.13, of submillimeter thickness Ei of at least 400nm and even 500nm, and even at least 800nm.
[0411] In one configuration, the optical insulating coating 5 comprises a crosslinked polymer matrix with an index n2, preferably of at most 1.42 and even of at least 1.35, matrix preferably among polyacrylate-based polymers with a fluorinated function, in particular urethane acrylate or fluorourethane acrylate or fluorosilicone acrylate. The thickness is preferably not more than 1 Opm or 5 µm or 2 µm and not less than 800 nm.
[0412] In one configuration, the optical insulating coating comprises a matrix with a refractive index n2m greater than n2 and less than ni, and preferably with n2m of at most 1.48 (and preferably n2 of at most 1.42 and even of at least 1.35), and comprising (nano)poroses and / or low-index and / or porous, hollow (nano)particles with a refractive index less than ni, in particular hollow particles of at most 300 nm or even 100 nm in size, for example hollow silica nanoparticles. The thickness is preferably at most 10 pm or 5 pm and at least 800 nm.
[0413] The matrix is a crosslinked polymer or thermoplastic, in particular selected from polymers based on polyacrylate, polyepoxides, polyvinyl acetate, polyester, polyurethane, PVB or minerals, especially silica. A polymer matrix based on polyacrylate, polyurethane or even polyepoxides, polyvinyl acetate, or polyester is preferred.
[0414] Alternatively, the carrier film 5' is an ultra-thin glass and / or the coating 5 is porous silica.
[0415] To avoid creases and undulations, preferably the coated substrate can be in an area with a curvature, a limited sphericity, in particular with a radius of curvature of at least 1.5 m. For example, the second edge 50 can be sufficiently far from the first and second slices of the leaves 1,2. The masking width on the sides and / or front and rear can be adjusted (increased) for this purpose.
[0416] For example the carrier film 5' is a clear PET of less than 200 pm (protected by fining of the interlayer 33 and / or 32) in particular of 100 pm or 75 pm, with a TL of about 90% or more.
[0417] The optical insulating coating 5 can be protected by a transparent protective layer. The transparent protective layer, in particular polymeric, with a refractive index greater than n2 (n2 being the index of the optical insulating layer), of submillimeter thickness and even of at most 100 µm or even 30 µm, is on and covers the optical insulating coating 5, particularly for mechanical protection purposes if the optical insulating coating contains (nano)porosity and / or (nano)particles of low index, especially hollow and / or porous ones. This transparent protective layer is here a protective coating, deposited on the optical insulating coating 5. It can be the same matrix as the optical insulating coating 5 without the (nano)porosity and / or (nano)particles of low index.
[0418] Alternatively, the carrier film 5' is an ultra-thin glass (UTG) and / or the optical insulating coating 5 is porous silica and the protective coating is dense silica, for example coatings 5, 53 obtained by sol-gel method.
[0419] In order to illuminate or light the laminated glazing 100, the latter further comprises a light source 4. In particular, the laminated glazing 100 comprises, in a manner masked from the outside by the internal masking layer 7: - light-emitting diodes 4 (here front-emitting) on a support 40 (for example PCB) opposite (or offset) the fourth main face 14, - on the third main face F3, the local, peripheral light redirection element 8 like a prismatic reflector film.
[0420] For example, the reflective prismatic film is a polymer prismatic film 8, as shown in detail in [Fig. 1] with: - a flat part 81 (substrate for example PET of at most 100pm) glued or fixed by suction to the third face F3 13, - and a textured layer (by embossing, etc.), partially or even fully textured, forming prisms 82 which become reflectors by a reflective layer 83 for example metallic (by conformal deposition on the prismatic textured surface).
[0421] Here the prismatic reflective film 8 is glued by a glue 60 on the third main face F3 13, it can also be held by suction.
[0422] The microprisms are schematically shown in cross-section as right triangles ([Fig. 1a]), but the apex angle can be adjusted to better direct light towards extraction methods described later. Similarly, the principal direction of emission of the light source can be adjusted (normal to the plane or at 22° to the normal, etc.). A collimator can be added between face F4 and the diodes.
[0423] For example, the reflective prismatic film 8 comprises a transparent thermoplastic film, for example based on polyethylene terephthalate (PET), on which transparent prisms are formed from a polyacrylate (reinforced resin, for example by UV) and a metallic layer (conformal deposit) allows the reflective prisms to be formed.
[0424] In another example, a transparent prismatic film (then on the fourth face) comprises a transparent thermoplastic film, for example based on polyethylene terephthalate (PET), on which the transparent prisms are formed from a polyacrylate (a resin crosslinked, for example, by UV). Alternatively, a macroprism is used on face F4.
[0425] The prismatic reflective film 8 is in adhesive contact here with the lower interlayer 32. The prismatic reflective film 8 forms a longitudinal band like the linear type light source 4 along a longitudinal edge of the glazing for example as seen in [Fig.1]'.
[0426] Alternatively, the prismatic film 8 (parts 81 and 82) is a monolithic polymer film, for example preformed, and the reflective layer 83 is applied.
[0427] The light from the diodes 4 is refracted in the second glass 2, in the prismatic reflector film 8, and then redirected at a given angle towards the light extraction means 6, here on the third face F3, for example, diffusing ink, as transparent as possible if desired, and into the clear glass. The light rays propagate by total internal reflection at face F4, and: - for some by total internal reflection at the interface between the lower laminated interlayer 32 and the second sheet up to the extraction means (via the surface on the F3 face side), - and even for others at the interface lower laminated interlayer 32 and optical insulating coating 5 and reach the extraction means 6 diffusing via the surface face side F2).
[0428] The prismatic reflective film 8 is here under the optical insulating coating 5, under the coated substrate. The inner edge of the prismatic film 8 is aligned with the edge 50 of the coated substrate, and also with the optical insulating coating 5.
[0429] Alternatively, a macroprism 8 or a prismatic film transparent on the F4 face side, downstream of the diodes, is chosen.
[0430] The light redirection element 8 (in particular the reflective or transparent prismatic film) faces the internal masking layer 7. Preferably, the reflective prismatic film between face F2 and face F3 is offset from the guest cell 9 to avoid overpressure that could degrade the cell. Thus, in particular, the reflective prismatic film 8 is larger than the guest cell 9, with the edge of the guest cell 9 offset from the edge of the reflective prismatic film 8, closer to the edge of the glazing. To avoid an effect of excessive thickness on the reflective prismatic film 8, a preferred safety distance between the edge of the guest cell 9 and the prismatic film is at least 10 mm, 20 mm, or in particular 30 mm.
[0431] The diodes and / or their support can be attached to face F4 (by an additional part etc.), as will be seen later with reference to figures 11 and 13. Alternatively, the diodes are side-emitting, as will be seen later with reference to figures 12 and 14.
[0432] To prevent stray light from passing through the film and even the internal masking element 7, and to ensure that what is necessary is also hidden from view from inside the vehicle and to clearly delimit the visible area, a masking element 7a, called the internal masking element, can be added on the front side F3. In particular ([Fig. 1e]), the internal masking element 7 and the internal masking element 7a extend parallel to the sides of the glazing in three longitudinal bands: upper 71, lateral 72, and 73. The three upper 71 and lateral 72 and 73 bands of the element The internal masking 7a is congruent with that of the internal masking element 7 of face F2 (the internal edge of the internal masking element 7a masking from the inside the internal joint of the host-guest cell and the carrier film 5). The internal masking element 7a is an enamel in F3 (or even F4) or an ink on the lower interlayer 32 in PVB or on the upper support 91 of the host-guest cell or on the additional interlayer 33.
[0433] For the manufacture of laminated glass, one can: -stack the different elements 31, 9, 5' with 5, 32 on the second sheet of glass 2 then proceed with the lamination, -or stack the different elements 32, 5' with 5, 9, 31 on the first sheet of glass 1 and then proceed with the lamination.
[0434] Alternatively, the additional layer 33 is the size of the device 9 and the coated substrate 5, 5' so an intercalary frame layer is added.
[0435] A single interlayer frame can be used depending on its thickness from the upper interlayer to the face F3.
[0436] Extraction means 6 are, for example, extended or point geometric patterns, in particular with a width of no more than 10 mm to avoid the shading phenomenon.
[0437] For example, the distance between the extraction means 6 and the diodes 4 (or the prismatic film 8) is at least 10 mm or 40 mm.
[0438] For example, the extraction means 6 comprise a diffusing coating (disjoint and / or interconnected pattern network) in contact with face F3 and covering at most 40% of the clear glass area to promote adhesion with the second sheet 2. The diffusing coating is deposited on face F3 (for example, a semi-transparent enamel) or on the main face of the lower PVB 32 layer oriented towards face F3. The diffusing coating 6 is polymeric or mineral and is deposited by liquid means (by inkjet, screen printing, etc.).
[0439] For example, the diffusing coating 6 is on face F3 (or even F4), for example with an acrylate matrix, preferably with a refractive index greater than or equal to the index ni of the second sheet 2, with TiO2 particles of at least 100 nm in diameter and preferably of at most 1 pm or 400 nm. It is 10 pm to 100 pm or even 50 pm thick. The diffusing coating (for example, based on PVB with TiO2 particles of 100 to 200 nm in diameter) is alternatively deposited on the face of the PVB oriented towards face F3.
[0440] Alternatively, the diffusing coating 6 (for example based on PVB with TiO2 particles of 100 to 200 nm in diameter) is deposited on the face of the PVB 32 oriented towards the face F2, and is then in contact with the optical insulating coating (or in contact with the rear face if the optical insulating coating is moved to the front face). For example, the diffusing coating (disjoint and / or interconnected pattern network) in contact with the optical insulating coating (or the back face if the optical insulating coating is moved to the front face) covers at most 50% of the clear glass to promote adhesion of the optical insulating coating (or the back face if the optical insulating coating is moved to the front face) with the lower interlayer.
[0441] In the ON state of the guest host cell (here clear state of the glazing), and in the OFF state of the light source (when the light source is turned off), the diffusing coating 6 can be opaque, white or almost invisible.
[0442] The luminous laminated glazing 100 can have a plurality of extraction zones 6 as illustrated in Figures 11c, Id, le, If, in particular of a given geometry (rectangular, square, round ...). As an alternative to the diffusing layer 6 which constitutes the extraction zones (enamel, ink, screen-printed or inkjet printed etc.) it can be a film, locally, placed or bonded locally on the third face F3 or even fourth face F4 (prismatic film or with diffusing layer or diffusing in bulk) or between the PVB 32 and the carrier film 5'.
[0443] Light extraction can be dynamic. For example, the light source 4 (diodes, straight strip in one or more sections) is driven to light up (for example gradually) patterns (extraction means) of the light guide layer.
[0444] As illustrated in [Fig.3'], the diffusing coating can form a luminous signage around the periphery of the side glazing (movable or quarter-glazed) in particular rear in particular in the form of a load indicator and comprises a plurality of (vertical or inclined) extraction segments 6 and / or in the form of pictogram(s) 6' (see [Fig.3']).
[0445] You can choose diodes emitting white or colored light for ambient lighting, reading...
[0446] Several series of diodes 4 (one edge, two edges, three edges, all around the periphery) can be provided, controlled independently and even of different colors.
[0447] In a particular example of glazing 100 of [Fig. 1]: - the first sheet 1 of Planiclear clear glass, 2.1 mm thick, - the upper interlayer 31 of clear PVB with UV filter, 0.76 mm thick, - the additional interlayer 33 in clear PVB of 0.38 mm thickness, - the lower interlayer 32 in clear PVB of 0.38 mm thickness, and - the second glass sheet 2 is a Sunmax glass of 2.1 mm thickness with possibly a low emissivity coating on face F4, - the guest host cell 9 of 0.4 mm thickness.
[0448] This glazing 100 has in the light state (invited host cell in the ON state) a TL of 25% and the colorimetric coordinates Ll* = 57, al* = -7.1 and bl* = 14.1, and in the dark state (invited host cell in the OFF state) a TL of 1% and the colorimetric coordinates Ll* = 10, al* = -2.6 and bl* = 2.6; the blur in the light state is 1.8%.
[0449] With regard to Figures 1 to 11, the opening side window has an irregular lower longitudinal edge 10, 20, which is not straight, with a projecting central portion 101, 201, and recessed front and rear portions 102, 202 and 102', 202', which are, for example, concave in shape. The upper longitudinal edge 10', 20' may be straight, horizontal, or irregular. The side edges 10a, 10b may be parallel or not. The opening side window has a mounting area 110. The mounting area 110 may include at least one opening, as schematically shown in [Fig. 1], for securing the window to the vehicle body. The fixing zone 110 can alternatively cooperate by pinching with at least one support or glass holder 9' at the lower edge 10, 20, as schematically shown in [Fig. 110]. There may be a single fixing zone 110 which is central or two fixing zones referred to as front and rear (figures 11 and 11).The glazing has a lower visibility limit of 701.
[0450] For example, in the raised position of the side glazing, the light extraction means extend to within 5 cm of this median portion, along a substantially horizontal axis (±1°), and the light source (and the reflective or transparent prismatic film) are longitudinally extended along this substantially horizontal axis (±1°). Preferably, the light source 4 is at least 5 mm from the irregular lower edge 10, 20.
[0451] In [Fig.ld], the glazing comprises three segmented regions of guest host cells 9a, 9b and 9c, which are all connected to a common connector 41a.
[0452] In [Fig. 1g], the opening glazing is rectangular with a straight lower edge 10. The light source 4 is positioned at least 5 mm from the lower edge 10. The movement of the opening glazing is achieved, for example, by a retaining means that is positioned along almost the entire length of the glazing. The internal masking element 7 is preferably an enamel facing F2. The internal masking element 7, for example, forms a frame that surrounds the entire periphery or extends in three bands as described previously.
[0453] The glazing 300 differs from the first glazing 100 with respect to the constitutive stacking of the interlayer film of the laminate. Thus, the interlayer layer 3 comprises the additional interlayer layer 33 and another additional interlayer layer 33'. The other additional interlayer layer 33' is in direct contact with the guest host cell 9, opposite the upper interlayer layer 31. The additional interlayer layer 33 is in contact, on one side, with said other additional layer 33, and on the other side with the coated substrate.
[0454] The outer glass 1 is clear, in particular a 2.1mm Planiclear glass.
[0455] The upper interlayer 31 is clear PVB with a thickness of 0.38 mm.
[0456] The additional interlayer 33 is clear PVB with a thickness of 0.38 mm.
[0457] The other additional intercalated layer 33' is an OCA layer which is bordered by a spacer 36 made of a double-sided adhesive and by a butyl sealing joint 37, the assembly 36, 37 making the seal when the OCA is injected and allowing the gap thickness to be given between the guest host cell 9 and the additional intercalated layer 33.
[0458] The lower interlayer 32 is PVB Optical Grade Thin Film with a thickness of 25 pm.
[0459] The inner glass 2 is a 2 mm (2.1 mm) thick Sunmax glass.
[0460] In the mounted position, with the side opening glazing closed, masking can be achieved via a lateral peripheral seal or guide, but a width of at least 15 mm or even 20 mm is required. If the seal is not wide enough, this must be compensated for by the internal masking layer 7.
[0461] In the case of a side (door) window, a single masking layer, internal 7, peripheral (visible in the mounted position), with a width dm of at least 15 mm or even 20 mm, is preferred, in the form of a straight band on the lower part or even a peripheral frame ([Fig. 3']). The internal masking layer 7 is an ink printed on the PVB of the upper interlayer 31. A minimum masking layer 7 can be a top masking strip (in the upper position along the top edge of the window). Masking is not necessarily required for the bottom strip, as the lower part is hidden within the door body.
[0462] A preferred safety distance between the boundary of the guest host cell 9 and the light redirection element 8 (in particular the reflective or transparent prismatic film) is at least 10 mm. The light redirection element 8 (in particular the reflective or transparent prismatic film) faces this internal masking layer 7. And preferably the reflective prismatic film 8 between face F2 and face F3 is offset from the guest host cell 9 to avoid overpressure.
[0463] The light source 4 is here a straight strip 40 of diodes which is driven to progressively illuminate patterns (extraction means 6) of the light-guiding layer. The strip 40 has a width di, for example, of 15 mm.
[0464] The light extraction means here constitute, by way of example, a peripheral light sign 42, with a plurality of extraction segments and / or in the form of pictogram(s), which are at most a distance d2 of at most 10 cm or even at most 5 cm or, for example, at least 1 cm or 2 cm from the light source 4 (which itself is notably at a distance d3 of at least 5 mm and / or at most 10 cm, 5 cm from the lower edge of the glazing). For example, in the mounted position, the means The light extraction segments extend along a horizontal axis (+- 1°) and the light source (and the prismatic reflective or transparent film) extends along this horizontal axis (+- 1°) over a width of 15 mm. The light source 4, for example, maintains the same distance for each extraction segment.
[0465] Figure 2 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of an opening laminated glazing 200 of road vehicle according to the invention in an embodiment of [Fig. 1]. This glazing 200 is such that - the outer glass is clear, - a transparent functional solar control coating 16 is arranged on face F2, - it may include an inner masking layer (not shown), this masking layer is for example a black ink printed on the lower interlayer layer 32 in PVB and on the periphery (in particular according to three bands along three sides).
[0466] The longitudinal edges 10, 10' of the laminated glazing may not be parallel.
[0467] In a particular example of glazing 200 in [Fig. 2]: - the first sheet 1 of Planiclear clear glass, 2.1 mm thick for example, coated on face 2 with a stack of thin films (solar control) comprising three layers of silver, - the upper interlayer 31 in clear PVB with UV filter, 0.76 mm thick, - the additional interlayer 33 in clear PVB of 0.38 mm thickness, - the lower interlayer 32 in clear PVB of 0.38 mm thickness, and - the second glass sheet 2 is a Sunmax glass of 2.1 mm thickness, - the guest host cell 9 of 0.4 mm thickness.
[0468] This glazing 200 has in the light state (invited host cell in the ON state) a TL of 25% and the colorimetric coordinates Ll* = 57, al* = -7.1 and bl* = 14.1, and in the dark state (invited host cell in the OFF state) a TL of 1% and the colorimetric coordinates Ll* = 10, al* = -2.6 and bl* = 2.6; the blur in the light state is 1.8%.
[0469] Figure 3 represents a schematic cross-sectional view of laminated glazing illuminable 300 of road vehicle according to the invention in a third embodiment. This glazing can be integrated into a side glazing as illustrated in [Fig. 3']. The side glazing is preferably opening.
[0470] The side glazing has a typical width of 40 cm to 80 cm and a radius of curvature of 1.2 m to 2 m.
[0471] A side window (or even a quarter window) may have a lower edge that is not straight. In particular, a holder is placed on a downward-projecting central portion of the window (housed in the bodywork) for a window regulator system. For example, in the raised position of the side window, the means light extraction extends to within 5cm of this median portion, along a horizontal axis (+- 1°) and the light source (and the prismatic reflective or transparent film) extends along this horizontal axis (+- 1°).
[0472] The glazing 300 differs from the first glazing 100 with respect to the constitutive stacking of the interlayer film of the laminate. Thus, the interlayer layer 3 comprises the additional interlayer layer 33 and another additional interlayer layer 33'. The other additional interlayer layer 33' is in direct contact with the guest host cell 9, opposite the upper interlayer layer 31. The additional interlayer layer 33 is in contact, on one side, with said other additional layer 33, and on the other side with the coated substrate.
[0473] The outer glass 1 is clear, in particular a 2.1mm Planiclear glass.
[0474] The upper interlayer 31 is clear PVB with a thickness of 0.38 mm.
[0475] The additional interlayer 33 is clear PVB with a thickness of 0.38 mm.
[0476] The other additional intercalated layer 33' is a layer of liquid OCA which is bordered by a spacer 36 made solid by a waterproof adhesive 37, the assembly 36, 37 making the seal when the OCA 33' is injected and allowing to give the thickness of gap between the guest host cell 9 and the additional intercalated layer 33. The adhesive element 37 may be opaque.
[0477] The lower interlayer 32 is PVB Optical Grade Thin Film with a thickness of 25 pm.
[0478] The inner glass 2 is a 2 mm (2.1 mm) thick Sunmax glass.
[0479] In the mounted position, with the side opening glazing closed, masking can be achieved via a lateral peripheral seal or guide, but a width of at least 15 mm or even 20 mm is required. If the seal is not wide enough, this must be compensated for by the internal masking layer 7.
[0480] In the case of a side opening (door) window, an internal masking layer 7 is provided, and preferably an internal masking layer 7a. The internal masking layer 7a is congruent with the internal masking layer 7. The internal masking layer 7 is peripheral (visible in the mounted position) and at least 15 mm or even 20 mm wide, in the form of a straight band on the lower part or even a peripheral frame. The internal masking layer 7 is an ink printed on the PVB of the upper interlayer layer 31. At a minimum, there may be a masking layer 7 which is an upper masking strip (in the upper position along the top edge of the window). A lower strip does not necessarily require masking because the bottom is hidden within the door body.
[0481] A preferred safe distance between the boundary of the guest host cell 9 and the light redirection element 8 (in particular the prismatic reflector or transparent film) is at least 10 mm. The light redirection element 8 (in in particular the reflective prismatic film or transparent) faces this internal masking layer 7. And preferably the reflective prismatic film 8 between face F2 and face F3 is offset from the guest host cell 9 to avoid overpressure.
[0482] The light source 4 is here a straight strip 40 of diodes which is driven to progressively illuminate patterns (extraction means 6) of the light-guiding layer. The strip 40 has a width di, for example, of 15 mm.
[0483] With reference to [Fig. 3'], the light extraction means here, by way of example, form an internal light signal in the form of extraction patterns, in particular pictogram(s) 6', and a progress indicator by progressively supplying extraction patterns 6. The extraction patterns, in the form of an internal light signal, are located in a lower peripheral band of the glazing, extending horizontally, at least 10 cm from a longitudinal and horizontal light source 4 below the lower visibility limit of the glazing. For example, in the mounted position, the light extraction means extend along a horizontal axis (+- 1°) and the light source (and the reflective or transparent prismatic film) extends along this horizontal axis (+- 1°) over a width of 15 mm. The light source 4 maintains, for example, the same distance for each extraction segment.
[0484] The glazing 300 includes power supply connectors 41 which are in particular flat, for example connectors of the "FPC" type. One of the power supply connectors 41 may be a backup connector.
[0485] Figure 4 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of laminated glazing illuminable 400 of road vehicle according to the invention in a fourth embodiment.
[0486] This 400 glazing differs from the first 100 glazing in that: - The additional interlayer 33 is optional (not present here). - An additional interlayer 33' is arranged as a self-supporting OCA film, preferably bordered by a spacer 36 to provide the gap thickness between the host cell 9 and the carrier film 5' of the coated substrate. Figure 5 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of an illuminable laminated glass 500 for a road vehicle according to the invention in a fifth embodiment.
[0487] This glazing 500 differs from the first glazing 100 in that the reflective prismatic film 8 has micro-prisms which are oriented towards face F3. The reflective prismatic film 8 is bonded by adhesive 60 (bonding localized at the level of the reflective prismatic film 8) to face F3.
[0488] The reflective prismatic film 8 is disposed directly under and against the additional intercalated layer 33. The reflective prismatic film 8 is substantially in the plane of the coated substrate 5, 5' which is shorter in length than in [Fig.1].
[0489] In addition, the internal masking element 7 (enamel or ink printed on the upper interlayer 31) is replaced or supplemented by an opaque PVB frame 71 (the upper interlayer 31 in PVB is then shorter in length than for the glazing of [Fig.1]).
[0490] Optionally, the diffusing coating 6, for example a set of patterns of identical width, is not on face side F3 or face side F4 but is printed on the face of the PVB 32 on face side F2.
[0491] [Fig.5'] represents a schematic cross-sectional view of a 500' illuminateable laminated road vehicle glazing according to the invention in a variant of the fifth embodiment.
[0492] This glazing 500' differs from the first glazing 100 in that the reflective prismatic film 8 has micro-prisms oriented towards face F3. The reflective prismatic film 8 is specifically bonded to the lower interlayer 32 of the adhesive 60 (bonding localized to the reflective prismatic film 8). In particular, the lower PVB interlayer 32 has a hole in which the reflective prismatic film 8 is housed and bonded.
[0493] The prismatic reflective film 8 is disposed at a distance from the additional intercalated layer 33. The prismatic reflective film 8 is directly opposite the additional intercalated layer 33, the coated substrate 5, 5' being of shorter length than in [Fig.1].
[0494] In addition, the internal masking element 7 (enamel or ink printed on the upper interlayer 31) is replaced or supplemented by an opaque PVB frame 71 (the upper interlayer 31 in PVB is then shorter in length than for the glazing of [Fig.1]).
[0495] Fig. 6 represents a schematic cross-sectional view of a 600 illuminateable laminated road vehicle glazing according to the invention in a sixth embodiment.
[0496] This 600 glazing differs from the first 100 glazing in that: - the second transparent sheet 2 is shorter than the first transparent sheet 1, - the injection of light is through the longitudinal slice 20 of the second sheet 2 (the prismatic reflector film 8 is removed).
[0497] Diodes 4 extend along the longitudinal coupling edge 20 of the second glass sheet 2. The PCB support 40 is fixed for example by glue 60 (or a double-sided adhesive) to the face Fl of the first transparent sheet 1.
[0498] [Fig.6'] represents a schematic front view of the glazing of [Fig.6]. The glazing has a lower longitudinal edge 20 (below line of sight 701) which is straight and horizontal.
[0499] The internal masking layer 7 is peripheral (visible in the mounted position) and has a width dm of at least 15 mm or even 20 mm. The internal masking layer 7 is an ink printed on the PVB of the upper interlayer 31. As explained previously, an internal masking element 7a can be added to the side of the inner transparent sheet 2. The glazing also has an internal masking layer 7a.
[0500] The light source 4 is here a straight LED strip 40 which is controlled to progressively illuminate patterns (extraction means 6) in the light-guiding layer. The strip 40 has a width of, for example, 15 mm. The light extraction means here, by way of example, form internal illuminated signage in the form of extraction patterns, in particular pictogram(s) 6' and a progress indicator by progressively powering extraction patterns 6. The extraction patterns in the form of internal illuminated signage are located in a lower peripheral band of the glazing, in particular extending horizontally, at least 5 cm, or even 10 cm, from a longitudinal and horizontal light source 4 below the lower visibility limit of the glazing.The light extraction means extend along a substantially horizontal axis (±1°) and the light source (and the prismatic reflective or transparent film) are longitudinally extended along this substantially horizontal axis (±1°).
[0501] Fig. 7 represents a schematic cross-sectional view of an illuminable laminated glazing 700 of a road vehicle according to the invention in a seventh embodiment.
[0502] This 700 glazing differs from the first 100 glazing in that: - the extraction means 6 are on the rear face Fb 52' of the optical insulating coating 5, - the reflective prismatic film 8 has been moved while in adhesive contact with the additional interlayer layer 33 and reversed, the reflective prism (the reflective coating) is towards face F3, - an intermediate frame 35 to compensate for the low thickness of the coated substrate up to the longitudinal slices 20 and 20'.
[0503] Fig. 8 represents a schematic cross-sectional view of an 800 illuminateable laminated road vehicle glazing according to the invention in an eighth embodiment.
[0504] This 800 glazing differs from the first 100 glazing in that: - the outer glass 1 is tinted, the upper interlayer 31 is possibly clear, - The optical insulating coating 5 is on the front face 51' of the carrier film 5', so the carrier film 5' is chosen to be clear, and may even be protected by a protective layer, - The prismatic film 8 has been moved (detail view) onto the rear face 52' of the optical insulating coating 5 and reversed; the reflecting prism (the reflective coating) is oriented towards face F3; the reflective prismatic film 8 is glued onto the coated substrate, - the diffusing coating 6, for example a set of patterns of identical width, is not on face side F3 or face side F4 but is printed on the face of the PVB 32 on face side F2 so in local contact with the back face 52' of the carrier film 5'.
[0505] An IR 15 reflective coating can be facing F4.
[0506] Fig. 9 represents a schematic cross-sectional view of a 900 illuminateable laminated road vehicle glazing according to the invention in a ninth embodiment.
[0507] This 900 glazing differs from the first 100 glazing in that: - the optical insulating coating 5 is on the front face 51' of the carrier film 5', therefore the carrier film 5' is chosen to be clear,
[0508] - the prismatic film 8 is turned towards face F2 by being arranged in the plane of the film carrier 5'; - the lower interlayer 32 is limited to the right of the coated substrate and an interlayer frame 35 compensates up to the longitudinal slices 20 and 20'; the prismatic film 8 is integrated into the thickness of the interlayer frame 35.
[0509] Figure 10 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of an illuminable laminated glass 1000 for a road vehicle in a tenth embodiment, without an additional interlayer 33. The stacks and the various elements are identical to those of the glass 100 of Figure 1, except that: - the additional interlayer is absent, - the optical insulating coating 5 is directly on the rear face of the host-guest cell 9, being supported by the second support 91' of the host-guest cell 9 (which is shown schematically by dashed lines). The carrier film 5' is thus constituted by the second support 91' of the host-guest cell 9 - face F2 is coated with a transparent 16 reflective functional coating (for example a silver stack).
[0510] Only one means of light extraction 6 opposite F3 has been arranged, but another Extraction method 6 could be arranged.
[0511] Face F2 can be coated with a transparent reflective functional coating (for example, a silver stack).
[0512] Figures 10', 10” and 10”' are variants of [Fig. 10].
[0513] In the glazing 1010 of [Fig.10'] (relative to the glazing 1000 of [Fig.10]): - the prismatic reflective film 8 is reversed, presenting its micro-prisms which are oriented towards the face F3, - the prismatic reflector film 8 is attached to the interlayer frame 34 opposite face F3, - the light extraction means 6 are integral with the carrier film 5 of the coated substrate.
[0514] In glazing 1020 of [Fig.10”] (relative to glazing 1000 of [Fig.10]): - the prismatic reflector film 8 is reversed, presenting its micro-prisms which are oriented towards face F3, - the prismatic reflective film 8 is glued to the face F3 by a local glue 60.
[0515] In glazing 1030 of [Fig. 10'”] (compared to glazing 1000 of [Fig. 10]), the masking element is formed of an opaque PVB 310 frame.
[0516] Fig. 11 represents a schematic cross-sectional view of an illuminable laminated glazing 1100 of a road vehicle according to the invention in an eleventh embodiment.
[0517] This glazing 1100 differs from the first glazing 100 in that: - the lower intermediate layer 32 is limited to the right of the coated substrate and an intermediate frame 35 compensates up to the longitudinal slices 20 and 20'; - the prismatic film 8 is positioned on the outer side of the glazing, opposite face F4 against the fourth main face 14 of the second glass sheet 2, and is reversed; the prismatic film 8 is also opposite the light source 4, the prismatic film 8 is transparent, bonded by an adhesive 6' to face F4 - face F2 is coated with a transparent 16 reflective functional coating (silver stacking for example).
[0518] Fig. 12 represents a schematic cross-sectional view of a 1200 illuminateable laminated road vehicle glazing according to the invention in a twelfth embodiment.
[0519] This 1200 glazing differs from the first 100 glazing in that: - the light source 4 (light-emitting diode array) is arranged on face F4 with the support 40 positioned against and oriented perpendicularly to the fourth main face 14 of the second glass sheet 2, the light exiting parallel to face F4, - a light redirection element 8 forms a beveled macroprism 8a and is coupled to the light source 4, the macroprism serving to redirect the light rays into the second glass sheet 2 which serves as a guide layer, - the face F2 is coated with a transparent reflective functional coating 16 (silver stacking for example).
[0520] Fig. 13 represents a schematic cross-sectional view of an illuminable laminated glazing 1300 of a road vehicle according to the invention in a thirteenth embodiment.
[0521] This glazing 1300 differs from the first glazing 100 in that the light is injected through the longitudinal edge 20 of the second sheet 2 (the prismatic reflective film 8 is omitted). The inner opaque element 7a can be omitted.
[0522] Alternatively, the second sheet 2 can be set back from the first sheet 1 to accommodate the side-emitting light source 4.
[0523] Diodes 4 extend along the longitudinal coupling edge 20 of the second glass sheet 2. The PCB support 40 is fixed for example by glue (or double-sided adhesive) on the edge 20. Alternatively, the source 4 is housed in a hole in the second sheet.
[0524] In addition, light extraction means 6 are, on the one hand, in the guide layer 2 and against the third face F3, and on the other hand, at face F4 on the fourth main face 14 of the second glass 2, the extraction means 6 being spaced apart.
[0525] Fig. 14 represents a schematic cross-sectional view of an illuminable laminated glazing 1400 of a road vehicle according to the invention in a fourteenth embodiment.
[0526] This glazing 1400 differs from the first glazing 100 in that the source 4 is housed in a hole in the second glass sheet 2. The second glass sheet 2 has a through hole 17 closed by a cover 17' on the third face 13, a hole housing the diodes 4 or even the diode holder 40. A cover 17" can close the hole and be fixed to the fourth face 14. Two coupling holes can be provided, for example, along the front edge of the glazing 400. The intermediate frame layer 34 of the host-guest cell 9 (layer 34, which will be opposite the source 4 and at the edge of the glazing) can be locally opaque (and sufficiently wide) to mask the cover 17', the hole 17, and the source 4 from the outside, in addition to layer 7.
[0527] Fig. 15 represents a schematic cross-sectional view of a 1500 illuminateable laminated road vehicle glazing according to the invention in a fifteenth embodiment.
[0528] This glazing 1500 differs from the first glazing 100 in that it comprises a third sheet 2', of mineral glass or polymer sheet (PC, PMMA), with a fifth main face F5 15', a sixth main face F6 16' and a third slice 21', of refractive index n' 1 preferably of at least 1.48 and at most 1.6, in particular from 1.5 to 1.53, third sheet bonded with the second sheet 2 via another lamination interlayer 3' comprising another upper interlayer 31' and another lower interlayer 32' in contact with the fifth face F5 and of refractive index n'3 in the visible.
[0529] The coated substrate 5', 5 is then moved to be between the other upper and lower interlayers 31', 32' of said other laminated interlayer, for example in PVB or TPU or cross-linked material in particular cross-linked EVA.
[0530] The refractive index n2 is then less than n' 1, the difference in refractive indices n' l-n2 being at least 0.06 in the visible.
[0531] The injection of light is through the longitudinal (or lateral in alternative) edge 21' of the third sheet (the prismatic reflector film and the internal opaque element are removed) which is set back from the second sheet 2' for example by at least 1cm to accommodate diodes (here emitting from above or front) 4 plus the support 40.
[0532] The optical insulating coating 5 is on the front face 51', in contact with the other upper layer 31' of the other laminated interlayer 3'.
[0533] Alternatively, source 4 is housed in a hole in the third leaf.
[0534] The extraction means 6 are opposite F6.
[0535] Fig. 16 represents a view of a 2000 road vehicle with various luminous and variable-tint laminated glazing, in particular showing the location of guest host cells: - lower or upper longitudinal bands 110, 210 of a windscreen 1', - full surface (here in two adjacent zones 210, 220) of a roof, - full surface (or in several surfaces) of the opening side glazing 300 and even of a quarter window 410.
[0536] The laminated glazing can thus comprise several adjacent host-guest cells. Between the two cells, there may be the material of the first upper adhesive layer, in particular PVB (by lamination, etc.) or another interlayer frame 34 of the host-guest cell, in particular PVB.
[0537] Between the two cells, we can have the material of the optical insulating layer (by fining etc) or of the first upper adhesive layer in particular PVB (by fining etc) or an extension of the external joint 34 of the GH cell, in particular PVB.
[0538] It may be desirable to mask all borders of guest host cells by the internal masking layer 7.
Claims
1. Demands Illuminatable vehicle glazing, particularly for road vehicles (100 to 1300), including side glazing intended for sliding mounting in a vehicle door, comprising: - laminated glass, preferably curved, comprising: - a first sheet (1), transparent, made of mineral glass, with a first main face (11) called face Fl, a second main face (12) called face F2 and a first slice, - a second sheet (2), transparent, with a third main face (13) called face F3, a fourth main face (14) called face F4 and a second slice, - between the first and second sheets, a multilayer polymer laminate interlayer (3), comprising an upper interlayer layer (31) on the second face and a lower interlayer layer (32, 34) on the third face, - between the upper and lower intercalated layers (31, 32), at least one variable-color liquid crystal cell called the guest host cell (9) having a first edge, the guest host cell containing an electroactive layer (93) comprising a liquid volume of liquid crystals mixed with dichroic dyes, the electroactive layer between an upper support (91) comprising an upper electrode (92) surmounted by an upper alignment layer (94) and a lower support (91') comprising a lower electrode (92') surmounted by a lower alignment layer (94'), the electroactive layer (93) being between the lower (94') and upper (94) alignment layers, the lower support (91') being closer to face F3 than the upper support (91), - a guiding layer, with a refractive index ng in the visible, capable of guiding light by total internal reflection, - between the guest host cell and the guidance layer, an optical insulating layer, optically isolating the guest host cell from the guidance layer, an optical insulating layer with a refractive index n2 in the visible, and with ng-n2 which is at least 0.04 in the visible, of submillimeter thickness Ei of at least 400nm, characterized in that the glazing comprises a coated substrate (5, 5') which includes: - a transparent film (5', 91') called carrier film, made of a material distinct from a fluoropolymer and a crosslinked adhesive material, with a main front face Fa (51') oriented towards the face F2 and a main rear face Fb opposite (52') and a second edge, of submillemetric thickness Ef - an optical insulating coating (5) which constitutes the optical insulating layer, made of a material comprising a matrix distinct from a fluoropolymer, on one of the front faces Fa or rear faces Fb, called coated face, and another second edge (50).
2. Illuminatable vehicle glazing according to claim 1, characterized in that in a configuration i), the coated substrate (5, 5') is laminated between the second and third faces F2 and F3, the second sheet having a refractive index n1 in the visible, preferably being at least 1.48 and at most 1.6, in particular from 1.5 to 1.53, and in particular ng = n1 or in that in a configuration )), it comprises a third sheet (2'), of mineral glass or polymer sheet, with a fifth main face F5 (15'), a sixth main face F6 (16') and a third slice (20'), having a refractive index n1 in the visible, preferably of at least 1.48 and at most 1.6, in particular from 1.5 to 1.53,the third sheet (2') being linked with the second sheet (2) via another laminated interlayer (3') comprising another upper interlayer (31') and another lower interlayer (32') in contact with the fifth face F5 and of refractive index n'3 in the visible, and in configuration j) the coated substrate (5', 5) is between the other upper and lower interlayers (31', 32') of said other laminated interlayer (3'), in particular ng= n' 1.,
3. Illuminatable vehicle glazing according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the lower support (91') forms the carrier film (5), the optical insulating coating (5') being on the rear face Fb of the carrier film or in that the coated substrate (5, 5') is laminated between the second and third faces F2 and F3 and distinct from the lower support (91'), the second edge extends beyond the first edge for example by at least 1mm or 5mm and even by at most 10cm or 5cm or 1cm.
4. Illuminatable vehicle glazing according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the coated substrate (5, 5') is laminated between the second and third faces F2 and F3 and distinct of the lower support (91'), the lamination interlayer (3) has an additional interlayer (33), the coated substrate (5', 5) being between the additional interlayer (33) and the lower interlayer (32), and preferably in contact with the lower interlayer (32) and: - the additional interlayer, is thermoplastic and even based on PVB or crosslinked adhesive material, is in contact with the lower support, - or the lamination interlayer (3) has another additional interlayer (33'), made of crosslinked adhesive material, in contact with the lower support and the additional interlayer, and the additional interlayer is thermoplastic and even based on PVB.
5. Illuminatable vehicle glazing according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the upper interlayer is in contact with the upper support, an interlayer of laminated contact material, in particular lower or other layer, is in contact with the lower support bare or coated with at least the optical insulating coating and even surmounted by a diffusing coating: - one of the upper interlayer and the contact interlayer is an adhesive layer of cross-linked polymer material and the other of the upper interlayer and the contact interlayer is a PVB-based layer, - or the upper interlayer is a PVB-based layer and the contact interlayer is a PVB-based layer.
6. Illuminatable vehicle glazing according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the carrier film (91', 5') is a polymer, preferably thermoplastic, in particular polyester, polyethylene terephthalate PET, poly(butylene terephthalate) PBT, poly(ethylene naphthalate) PEN, and the optical insulating coating is on the back face of the polymer carrier film.
7. Illuminatable vehicle glazing according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the optical insulating coating (5) comprises a polymer matrix crosslinked with said index n2, preferably of at most 1.42, or in that the optical insulating coating comprises a matrix, in particular organic or mineral, with a refractive index n2m greater than n2 and less than ng, and with preferably n2m of at most 1.48 and n2 preferably of at most 1.42, and comprising (nano)porosity and / or (nano)particles of low index, of refractive index less than ng, in particular hollow.
8. Illuminatable vehicle glazing according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the guest host cell (9) comprises a single cell or a set of subcells separated by separators forming an interconnected network, preferably polymer-based with a width of at most 100 pm and / or in that at least in the clear part of the glazing, said guest host cell is segmented into several cell regions (9a, 9b, 9c) by at least one electrical discontinuity, in particular of submillimeter width, formed in one of the upper or lower electrodes, in particular obtained by laser, each cell region having an electrical supply.
9. Illuminatable vehicle glazing according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, in particular for a side glazing in particular opening, the guest host cell (9) has a dark state in the off or OFF state and a light state in the on or ON state, the alignment layers being homeotropic.
10. Illuminatable vehicle glazing according to any one of the preceding claims characterized in that the guest host cell (9) comprises an internal polymer seal, preferably no more than 1 cm wide, between the lower support and the upper support and surrounding the electroactive layer, in the visible part of the glazing in the mounted position, the glazing comprises means for masking the outside of the first edge and the internal seal, and even the other second edge of the optical insulating coating, referred to as external masking means, and preferably the glazing comprises means for masking the inside of the first edge and the internal seal, and even the other second edge of the optical insulating coating, referred to as internal masking means, preferably the external masking means comprise a peripheral internal masking layer, which is: - a coating on face F2, in particular enamel, or a coating on the upper interlayer,- or an opaque interlayer abutted with the upper, so-called short, interlayer, set back from the first layer, - and preferably the internal masking means include a peripheral internal masking layer which is:, 76 - a coating, on face F3 or F4, in particular enamel, or coating on an intermediate layer of lamination under the lower support, in particular on the lower intermediate layer or an additional intermediate layer between the lower intermediate layer and the lower support or on an intermediate frame layer, - or an opaque intermediate layer of the laminate interlayer, under the lower support, in particular an additional intermediate layer between the lower intermediate layer and the lower support or on an intermediate frame layer.
11. Illuminatable vehicle glazing according to the preceding claim characterized in that the glazing is a side glazing (300) in particular opening, the internal seal and the other second edge having a lower longitudinal border below the lower limit of visibility of the glazing, and in that the peripheral internal masking layer comprises an upper longitudinal masking band in particular horizontal or even one or more internal lateral masking bands, and in that preferably the peripheral internal masking layer comprises an upper internal longitudinal masking band or even one or more internal lateral masking bands.
12. Illuminatable vehicle glazing according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the coated substrate (5, 5', 91') is laminated between the second and third faces F2 and F3, and the glazing comprises a light source (4,4'), preferably an array of light-emitting diodes, which is on the fourth face F4 and coupled to a light redirection element (8) which is: - a prismatic reflector element on the third face F3, in particular opposite the light source, in particular a prismatic reflector element comprising reflector prisms oriented towards the third face F3 or towards the second face F2, - or a transparent light redirection element, on the fourth main face F4.
13. Illuminatable vehicle glazing according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the light redirection element (8) is transparent and on the fourth principal face F4 or is a prismatic reflecting element on the third face F3, comprising reflecting prisms, in particular oriented towards the third face F3 or towards the second face F2 preferably offset from the guest host cell, and in that the light redirection element (8) is: - at least partially opposite the optical insulating coating (5), - or at most 4mm, preferably at most 1mm, from the optical insulating coating (5), - and / or the light redirection element (8) is a prismatic reflector element, in particular a prismatic reflector film comprising reflector prisms, arranged on the third face F3 between face F2 and face F3, which is offset from the guest host cell, at least 1mm away from the first edge of the guest host cell.
14. Illuminatable vehicle glazing according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises a diffusing coating (6), forming means for extracting light, preferably local or discontinuous, and opposite the invited host cell, and in that the diffusing coating is on the lower interlayer (32), which is in particular based on PVB, in contact with the rear face Fb or the optical insulating coating (5) and / or on a face oriented towards the face F3 and / or is carried by the carrier film and on the optical insulating coating (5) and preferably in that the diffusing coating is on the lower interlayer (32), which is based on PVB, the lower interlayer and diffusing coating assembly having a blur of at most 20%, the binder of the diffusing coating being organic, preferably selected from polymers based on polyacrylate, polyepoxides, polyvinyl acetate, polyester, polyurethane.
15. Illuminatable vehicle glazing according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises means for extracting light (6), preferably in the form of a diffusing coating on the lower interlayer, forming an internal light signal in the form of extraction patterns in particular - pictogram(s) (6'), - and / or a progress indicator by progressively supplying extraction patterns (6), internal light signaling located in a lower peripheral band of the glazing, in particular extending horizontally.
16. Illuminatable vehicle glazing according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least the first sheet has a first irregular lower longitudinal edge having at least a first protruding portion called the first overhang, and in that the glazing comprises a longitudinal light source, in particular extending horizontally, and below the lower visibility limit of the glazing, at a distance from a glazing fixing area intended to be coupled to a window lifting system, fixing area connected to the first overhang, longitudinal source at least 5cm from means for extracting light into the clear glass in particular in the form of a diffusing coating.
17. Illuminatable vehicle glazing according to claim 15, characterized in that the inner glass is of reduced size, the second slice is straight, in particular horizontal, and below the lower visibility limit of the glazing, the longitudinal light source is housed under face F2 along the second slice for optical coupling by the second slice or in that the second sheet has a second irregular lower longitudinal edge having at least one protruding portion called a second overhang opposite said first overhang, the longitudinal light source is linked to face F4 and the glazing preferably includes a light redirection reflector element on face F3 opposite the longitudinal light source, below the lower visibility limit of the glazing.
18. Vehicle incorporating the illuminable vehicle glazing according to one of the preceding claims in particular comprising a door housing the side glazing opening in particular at the rear according to one of the preceding claims.
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