Light control member and light control module

Abstract

To provide a light control member and a light control module which reduce the generation of hazy unevenness even when a boundary part (end part of the light control member) between existence and absence parts of the light control member in an effective area of a translucent member, so as to be able to improve visibility and appearance.SOLUTION: A light control member attached to a translucent member includes: an end-part area entering an effective area of the translucent member when attached to the translucent member; and a sealing area for sealing the end-part area. The sealing area has a thickness variation of less than 25 μm in an extending direction of the end-part area.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a light control member and a light control module. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 describes a laminated glass comprising a first glass plate, a second glass plate facing the first glass plate, a light control element connected to a power supply, an adhesive, and a sealing member positioned between the first and second glass plates. The sealing member overlaps at least a portion of the periphery of the first glass plate in a plan view. The adhesive contacts the first and second main surfaces and side surfaces of the first and second glass plates and the light control element. The adhesive contains a curable transparent resin. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] International Publication No. 2022 / 039089 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In the laminated glass described in Patent Document 1, the effective area of ​​the glass sheets is defined. The effective area of ​​the glass sheets is defined as, for example, an exposed portion of the glass sheets (e.g., the first and second glass sheets) that is not covered by a frame member or the like.

[0005] Furthermore, it is conventional technical knowledge that the size of the light control member is larger than the effective area of ​​the glass plate in laminated glass such as that described in Patent Document 1. In other words, the light control member covers the entire effective area of ​​the glass plate, so that it is possible to switch between whether the light control function of the light control member is exerted (opaque) and whether the light control function of the light control member is not exerted (transparent) across the entire effective area of ​​the glass plate.

[0006] Meanwhile, the inventors have been developing and researching laminated glass in which the size of the light control element is smaller than the effective area of ​​the glass plate. However, during this development and research, they have come across a technical issue: the boundary between the area where the light control element is present and the area where it is not present (the edge of the light control element) enters the effective area of ​​the glass plate, causing hazy unevenness, which reduces visibility and impairs the aesthetic appearance.

[0007] The present invention was completed based on the above-mentioned concerns, and aims to provide a dimming component and dimming module that can reduce the occurrence of hazy unevenness and improve visibility and aesthetics, even when the boundary between the present and absent parts of the dimming component (the end of the dimming component) enters the effective area of ​​the translucent component. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] The light-adjusting element of this embodiment is a light-adjusting element that is attached to a light-transmitting element, and has an end region that enters the effective region of the light-transmitting element when attached to the light-transmitting element, and a sealing region that seals the end region, and the sealing region has a thickness variation of less than 25 μm in the extension direction of the end region. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a dimming component and dimming module that can reduce the occurrence of hazy unevenness and improve visibility and aesthetics, even if the boundary between the present and absent parts of the dimming component (the end of the dimming component) enters the effective area of ​​the translucent component. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] FIG. 2 is a plan view showing an example of the configuration of the light control module of the present embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view taken along line II-II in FIG. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is an enlarged view showing various parameters of the light control member and light control module of the present embodiment. [Figure 4]10 is a cross-sectional view corresponding to FIG. 2 showing another embodiment of the light control module of the present embodiment. [Figure 5] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating an example of the effect of the covering portion in an opaque state in which the dimming function of the dimming member is exerted and in a transparent state in which the dimming function of the dimming member is not exerted. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the results of demonstration experiments of Numerical Examples 1-14 and Comparative Example 1. [Figure 7] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a conventional technical problem. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0011] <Definitions of terms, etc.> In this specification, the term "light-transmitting member" may be read as a "light-transmitting plate" or a "light-transmitting window," and is used to refer to a concept including a "glass member," a "glass plate," or a "glass window." That is, in this specification, a "glass member (glass plate, glass window)" is used as an example of a "light-transmitting member (light-transmitting plate, light-transmitting window)," but the "light-transmitting member (light-transmitting plate, light-transmitting window)" may be made of materials other than glass, including various plastics and other materials. For example, the "light-transmitting member (light-transmitting plate, light-transmitting window)" may be made of polycarbonate.

[0012] In this specification, the term "dimming module" refers to a light-transmitting member and a dimming component attached to the light-transmitting member. As its name suggests, a light-transmitting member has translucency as its own property. A dimming component ensures the translucency of the light-transmitting member and the dimming module (becoming transparent) by not exerting its dimming function, and inhibits the translucency of the light-transmitting member and the dimming module (becoming opaque) by exerting its dimming function. Dimming components come in two types: a normal type (normal mode) that is transparent when energized and opaque when deenergized, and a reverse type (reverse mode) that is transparent when deenergized and opaque when energized. The dimming function of a dimming component refers to the normal type when not energized and the reverse type when energized. The dimming function of a dimming component is not exerted may refer to the normal type when energized and the reverse type when deenergized. Furthermore, in this specification, the term "light control member" refers to a component of a light control module, and refers to the light control member in a state before being attached to the light-transmitting member.

[0013] In this specification, the dimming method using the dimming module (dimming component) may be, for example, a polymer dispersed liquid crystal, a polymer dispersed liquid crystal (PDLC: Polymer Dispersed Liquid Crystal) method, or a polymer network liquid crystal (PNLC: Polymer Network Liquid Crystal) method. Alternatively, the dimming method using the dimming module (dimming component) may be one that uses EC (Electrochromic), GHLC (Guest-Host Liquid Crystal), or SPD (Suspended Particle Device).

[0014] In this specification, the "effective area of ​​the light-transmitting member" is defined as the exposed portion of the light-transmitting member that is not covered by a frame member, etc. For example, if the light-transmitting member is the windshield of an automobile, the entire exposed surface of the windshield corresponds to the "effective area of ​​the light-transmitting member," if the light-transmitting member is a window glass of a building or house, the entire exposed surface of the window glass corresponds to the "effective area of ​​the light-transmitting member," and if the light-transmitting member is a partition, the entire exposed surface of the partition corresponds to the "effective area of ​​the light-transmitting member."

[0015] In this specification, the light-transmitting member to which the light control member is attached may include so-called one-piece or two-piece light-transmitting members. In the case of a one-piece light-transmitting member, the light control member may be attached to the surface of the one-piece light-transmitting member. In the case of a two-piece light-transmitting member, the light control member may be supported by being sandwiched between the two light-transmitting members through an intermediate layer (intermediate film), or the light control member may be attached to the surface of one of the two light-transmitting members.

[0016] In this specification, the terms "upper surface" and "lower surface" may be defined as, for example, the upper and lower surfaces in a drawing (these may be defined based on the vertical direction in the drawing). Furthermore, in this specification, the terms "outside" and "outer support layer" may be defined as the outside of a certain reference (center) layer, or as a layer supported on the outside of the certain reference (center) layer, regardless of the vertical direction in the drawing. For example, consider a laminated structure in which a certain reference (center) layer A is provided, layer B is provided on both sides of layer A, and layer C is provided on both sides of layer B. In this case, layer B is an "outer support layer" supported on the "outside" of layer A, and layer C is an "outer support layer" supported on the "outside" of layers A and B. In this sense, "outside" and "outer support layer" may be interpreted as "upper layer" and "upper support layer," and in this case, the further away from the certain reference (center) layer, the higher the layer is defined, and the closer to the certain reference (center) layer, the lower the layer is defined.

[0017] <Conventional technical issues> In recent years, attempts have been made to apply light-controlling devices that control the light transmittance of liquid crystals to applications other than display applications, such as windows in buildings or vehicles, and various proposals have been made. A typical example is laminated glass that uses a liquid crystal light-controlling film, which is made by sandwiching liquid crystal between a pair of transparent substrates with conductive films. Light-controlling films can be used for anti-glare applications by switching between transparent and opaque. It is also anticipated that in the future, laminated glass will be developed that uses a liquid crystal light-controlling film that can be switched between transparent and opaque over an area smaller than the size of the glass.

[0018] In the laminated glass described in the above-mentioned Patent Document 1, an effective area of ​​the glass sheets is defined. The effective area of ​​the glass sheets is defined as, for example, an exposed portion of the glass sheets (e.g., the first and second glass sheets) that is not covered by a frame member or the like.

[0019] Furthermore, it is conventional technical knowledge that the size of the light control member is larger than the effective area of ​​the glass plate in laminated glass such as that described in Patent Document 1. In other words, the light control member covers the entire effective area of ​​the glass plate, so that it is possible to switch between whether the light control function of the light control member is exerted (opaque) and whether the light control function of the light control member is not exerted (transparent) across the entire effective area of ​​the glass plate.

[0020] Meanwhile, the inventors have been developing and researching laminated glass in which the size of the light control component is smaller than the effective area of ​​the glass plate. However, in the course of this development and research, they have come across a technical issue: the boundary between the areas where the light control component is present and the areas where it is not present (the edge of the light control component) intrudes into the effective area of ​​the glass plate, causing hazy unevenness, which reduces visibility and impairs the aesthetic appearance.

[0021] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of a conventional technical problem. FIG. 7 shows an example in which a light-adjusting device is applied to the windshield of an automobile, in which a light-adjusting device (light-adjusting sheet) is present in the portion extending in the left-right direction in the upper end region of the windshield, and the remaining lower region is an area where no light-adjusting device (light-adjusting sheet) is present. In the area where no light-adjusting device is present, transparency is guaranteed by the windshield, regardless of whether or not the light-adjusting function of the light-adjusting device is present. In the area where the light-adjusting device is present, transparency is guaranteed by the windshield when the light-adjusting function of the light-adjusting device is not being exerted, and when the light-adjusting function of the light-adjusting device is being exerted, the area changes to a dark color such as white or black and becomes opaque, thereby achieving anti-glare functionality.

[0022] 7, the boundary between the area where the light control device is present and the area where it is not present (the edge of the light control device) extends into the effective area of ​​the windshield. In this case, there is a concern that misty unevenness will occur at the boundary between the area where the light control device is present and the area where it is not present (the edge of the light control device), which may result in poor visibility or a loss of aesthetic appeal.

[0023] Incidentally, if the boundary between the areas where the dimming device is present and the areas where it is not present (the edge of the dimming device) does not extend into the effective area of ​​the windshield (for example, if it is hidden by a frame member, etc.), the occurrence of misty unevenness will not have an adverse effect. However, as shown in Figure 7, this would make it impossible to give the windshield of a car partial sun visor function.

[0024] <Technical Concept of the Invention> The inventors of the present invention have recognized the above-mentioned problems as important technical challenges and conducted extensive research, resulting in the development of a structure for suppressing the occurrence of hazy unevenness at the boundary between the areas where a light-adjusting device is present and the areas where it is not present (the edges of the light-adjusting device). A light-adjusting component attached to a light-transmitting component has an edge region that extends into the effective area of ​​the light-transmitting component and a sealing region that seals this edge region. By keeping the thickness variation of this sealing region in the extension direction of the edge region within a predetermined range, the occurrence of hazy unevenness can be dramatically reduced. More specifically, the thickness variation of the sealing region in the extension direction of the edge region is preferably less than 25 μm, more preferably 20 μm or less, and even more preferably 10 μm or less.

[0025] Additionally / alternatively, the width of the sealing region in the stretching direction of the end region preferably varies by less than 1 mm, more preferably by 0.5 mm or less, and even more preferably by 0.3 mm or less, thereby significantly reducing the occurrence of hazy unevenness.

[0026] In this way, the occurrence of hazy unevenness can be dramatically reduced by setting the thickness variation in the extension direction of the sealing region that seals the edge region that enters the effective region of the light-transmitting member to less than 25 μm. This effect is more pronounced by setting the thickness variation in the extension direction of the edge region that seals the edge region that enters the effective region of the light-transmitting member to 20 μm or less, more preferably 10 μm or less. More specifically, the occurrence of hazy unevenness can be dramatically reduced by effectively preventing scattering of incident light due to warping or wrinkles in the intermediate layer (interlayer film) at the edge sealing portion of the light-switching member during thermocompression bonding in the production of the light-switching member and the light-switching module (laminated glass), as well as scattering of incident light due to variations in the edge sealing region itself.

[0027] <Specific embodiment> Fig. 1 is a plan view showing an example of the configuration of a dimming module of this embodiment. Fig. 2 is a cross-sectional view taken along line II-II in Fig. 1. Fig. 3 is an enlarged view showing various parameters of the dimming component and dimming module of this embodiment. Fig. 2 is not a cross-sectional view taken exactly along line II-II in Fig. 1, but rather depicts two left and right boundaries (edges of the dimming component) between the presence and absence of the dimming component, with the left boundary (left edge of the dimming component) extending into the effective area of ​​the light-transmitting component and the right boundary (right edge of the dimming device) extending out of the effective area of ​​the light-transmitting component and hidden by the outer frame component.

[0028] The light control module 1 includes an outer frame member 10 having a generally rectangular frame shape with rounded corners in a plan view, and a light-transmitting member 20 supported by the outer frame member 10. The light-transmitting member 20 is a two-piece light-transmitting member composed of a first light-transmitting member 21 and a second light-transmitting member 22 facing each other. The portions of the light-transmitting member 20 (the first light-transmitting member 21 and the second light-transmitting member 22) exposed to the inside of the outer frame member 10 are defined as the "effective area of ​​the light-transmitting member 20 (the first light-transmitting member 21 and the second light-transmitting member 22)." The light-transmitting members 20 (the first light-transmitting member 21 and the second light-transmitting member 22) are made of, for example, a glass material or polycarbonate. An intermediate film (intermediate layer) 30 is provided between the first light-transmitting member 21 and the second light-transmitting member 22. The intermediate film 30 is made of a material such as PVB (polyvinyl butyral).

[0029] A light-controlling member (light-controlling sheet, light-controlling film) 40 is provided between the first light-transmitting member 21 and the second light-transmitting member 22 so as to be embedded in the intermediate film 30. The light-controlling member 40 has a light-controlling layer (liquid crystal layer) 41. The light-controlling layer 41 contains a liquid crystal composition. The light-controlling layer 41 is composed of, for example, polymer network liquid crystal (PNLC: Polymer Network Liquid Crystal), polymer dispersed liquid crystal (PDLC: Polymer Dispersed Liquid Crystal), or encapsulated nematic liquid crystal (NCAP: Nematic Curvilinear Aligned Phase). For example, a polymer network liquid crystal has a three-dimensional mesh-like polymer network and holds liquid crystal molecules in the voids of the polymer network. The liquid crystal molecules contained in the light-controlling layer 41 have, for example, positive dielectric anisotropy, and the dielectric constant in the long axis direction of the liquid crystal molecules is greater than the dielectric constant in the short axis direction of the liquid crystal molecules. The liquid crystal molecules are, for example, Schiff base, azo, azoxy, biphenyl, terphenyl, benzoate, tolan, pyrimidine, cyclohexanecarboxylic acid ester, phenylcyclohexane, and dioxane liquid crystal molecules.

[0030] A transparent conductive layer (transparent electrode layer) 42X is provided on the outside of one surface (top surface in FIG. 2) of the light-controlling layer 41, and a transparent substrate layer 43X is provided on the outside of the transparent conductive layer 42X. A transparent conductive layer (transparent electrode layer) 42Y is provided on the outside of the other surface (bottom surface in FIG. 2) of the light-controlling layer 41, and a transparent substrate layer 43Y is provided on the outside of the transparent conductive layer 42Y. In this way, the light-controlling member 40 is a light-controlling sheet (light-controlling film) that has the light-controlling layer 41, a pair of transparent conductive layers 42X and 42Y located on both sides of the light-controlling layer 41, and a pair of transparent substrate layers 43X and 43Y located on both sides of the pair of transparent conductive layers 42X and 42Y.

[0031] The transparent conductive layers 42X and 42Y are transparent layers having electrical conductivity. Examples of materials that can be used to form the transparent conductive layers 42X and 42Y include indium tin oxide (ITO), fluorine-doped tin oxide (FTO), tin oxide, zinc oxide, carbon nanotubes (CNT), polymers containing poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT), and multilayer films containing Ag alloy thin films. The transparent substrate layers 43X and 43Y are layers that contain a material such as PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate).

[0032] Note that additional or alternative layers may be provided as "outer support layers" located outside the transparent substrate layers 43X and 43Y. In other words, the number and type of "outer support layers" are flexible, allowing for various design modifications. For example, a transparent support layer made of a transparent substrate may be provided as the "outer support layer." Examples of the transparent support layer include a glass substrate, a silicon substrate, or a polymer film made of polyethylene, polystyrene, polyethylene terephthalate, polyvinyl alcohol, polycarbonate, polyvinyl chloride, polyimide, polysulfone, cycloolefin polymer, triacetyl cellulose, and the like. Furthermore, examples of the "outer support layer" include a layer for protecting the photochromic layer 41, the transparent conductive layers 42X and 42Y, and the transparent substrate layers 43X and 43Y, a layer that contributes to controlling the light transmittance of the photochromic component 40, and a layer that enhances the strength, heat resistance, and other properties of the photochromic component 40.

[0033] The transparent conductive layer 42X and the transparent substrate layer 43X, which are located in order on the outside of one surface (top surface in Figure 2) of the dimming layer 41, and the transparent conductive layer 42Y and the transparent substrate layer 43Y, which are located in order on the outside of the other surface (bottom surface in Figure 2) of the dimming layer 41, are arranged so that their positions are offset from each other when viewed in a plane.

[0034] For example, when focusing on the left and right sides of the light-adjusting member 40, the transparent conductive layer 42Y and transparent base material layer 43Y provided on the other surface (the bottom surface in FIG. 2) of the light-adjusting layer 41 are provided with step portions DX (half-cut portions) that protrude to the left and right from the transparent conductive layer 42X and transparent base material layer 43X provided on one surface (the top surface in FIG. 2) of the light-adjusting layer 41. Electrodes (not shown) that apply a drive voltage to the light-adjusting member 40 are provided on the top surface of the transparent conductive layer 42Y located to the left and right of the step portions DX. Wiring portions (not shown), such as flexible printed circuits (FPCs), are connected to the electrodes. Although Figure 2 illustrates an example in which both sides of the transparent conductive layer 42Y and the transparent base layer 43Y protrude to the left and right beyond the transparent conductive layer 42X and the transparent base layer 43X, a configuration in which one end side of the transparent conductive layer 42Y and the transparent base layer 43Y protrudes beyond the transparent conductive layer 42X and the transparent base layer 43X, and the other short side of the transparent conductive layer 42X and the transparent base layer 43X protrudes beyond the transparent conductive layer 42Y and the transparent base layer 43Y, may also be used.

[0035] In the dimming member 40 configured as described above, when a driving current is passed through the transparent conductive layers 42X and 42Y via the electrode portion and wiring portion (not shown), a driving voltage is applied between the transparent conductive layers 42X and 42Y, i.e., to the dimming layer 41.

[0036] When no driving voltage is applied between the transparent conductive layers 42X and 42Y (the light-adjusting layer 41), the orientation of the long axes of the liquid crystal molecules in the light-adjusting layer 41 is irregular. As a result, light incident on the light-adjusting layer 41 is scattered, and the light-adjusting member 40 appears cloudy. In other words, the light-adjusting member 40 is opaque.

[0037] On the other hand, when a drive voltage is applied between the transparent conductive layers 42X and 42Y (the light-adjusting layer 41), the liquid crystal molecules in the light-adjusting layer 41 are oriented, with the long axis direction of the liquid crystal molecules oriented along the electric field direction between the transparent conductive layers 42X and 42Y. As a result, light is more easily transmitted through the light-adjusting layer 41, and the light-adjusting member 40 becomes transparent. In this way, the light-adjusting member 40 functions as a normal type (normal mode).

[0038] The light control member 40 may also include a pair of light distribution layers sandwiching the light control layer 41 between the light control layer 41 and the transparent conductive layers 42X and 42Y. The light distribution layers are layers that control the orientation of the liquid crystal molecules contained in the light control layer 41, and align the liquid crystal molecules along the normal direction of the distribution layers when no driving voltage is applied. In a configuration including the alignment layers, the light control member 40 becomes opaque when a driving voltage is applied between the transparent conductive layers 42X and 42Y (the light control layer 41), and becomes transparent when no driving voltage is applied between the transparent conductive layers 42X and 42Y (the light control layer 41) (functioning as a reverse type (reverse mode)). Examples of materials that can be used to form the alignment layers include polyamide, polyimide, polycarbonate, polystyrene, polysiloxane, polyesters such as polyethylene terephthalate and polyethylene naphthalate, and polyacrylates such as polymethyl methacrylate. The alignment treatment for forming the alignment layer is, for example, a rubbing treatment, a polarized light irradiation treatment, or a microfabrication treatment.

[0039] The light-adjusting layer 41 may also contain a dye having a predetermined color that does not interfere with the movement of liquid crystal molecules in response to the magnitude of the voltage applied to the light-adjusting layer 41. Such a configuration achieves a light-adjusting component 40 having a predetermined color. Furthermore, by adding a dichroic dye and black spacers to the light-adjusting component 40 (light-adjusting layer 41), the occurrence of hazy unevenness at the boundary between the presence and absence of the light-adjusting component 40 (the edge of the light-adjusting component 40) may be suppressed.

[0040] The light-adjusting component 40 is used for various purposes, for example, by cutting into a desired shape a large sheet made of a multilayer body including each layer that constitutes the light-adjusting component 40. For example, the light-adjusting component 40 can be used in various applications, such as an instant light-adjusting crystal magic film that blocks visibility from the inside or outside only at specific times, which is normally transparent glass, office partitions, laminated glass, frosted glass, etc. The light-adjusting component 40 can also be installed in the upper region of an automobile windshield to provide a partial sun visor function.

[0041] Here, the "end region T of the light-adjusting member 40" is defined. The light-adjusting member 40 has, at its left end in FIG. 2 , a "first end region T1" consisting of the light-adjusting layer 41, the transparent conductive layer 42X, and the vicinity of the left end of the transparent substrate layer 43X, and a "second end region T2" consisting of the light-adjusting layer 41, the transparent conductive layer 42X, and the transparent conductive layer 42Y and the transparent substrate layer 43Y that protrude further to the left from the transparent substrate layer 43X. Similarly, the light-adjusting member 40 has, at its right end in FIG. 2 , a "first end region T1" consisting of the light-adjusting layer 41, the transparent conductive layer 42X, and the vicinity of the right end of the transparent substrate layer 43X, and a "second end region T2" consisting of the light-adjusting layer 41, the transparent conductive layer 42X, and the transparent conductive layer 42Y and the transparent substrate layer 43Y that protrude further to the right from the transparent substrate layer 43X. The first end region T1 and the second end region T2 are located in different thickness and width directions and are separated by a step portion DX.

[0042] 2 extends into the effective area of ​​the light-transmitting member 20 (the first light-transmitting member 21 and the second light-transmitting member 22). On the other hand, the right side end area T in FIG. 2 (the first light-transmitting member 21 and the second light-transmitting member 22) does not extend into the effective area of ​​the light-transmitting member 20 (the first light-transmitting member 21 and the second light-transmitting member 22) and is hidden by the outer frame member 10.

[0043] The end regions T (first end region T1, second end region T2) of the light adjusting component 40 are sealed by sealing regions H (first sealing region H1, second sealing region H2) made of a sealing member 50. Specifically, the sealing region H has a first sealing region H1 that seals the first end region T1 of the light adjusting component 40 and a second sealing region H2 that seals the second end region T2 of the light adjusting component 40. The sealing member 50 is made of, for example, an acrylic ultraviolet-curing resin and has a function of protecting the electrode parts and wiring parts provided on the upper surface of the transparent conductive layer 42Y and the exposed end of the light adjusting layer 41. The sealing member 50 may be transparent or a dark color such as black. In the latter case, the occurrence of hazy unevenness in the end regions T (first end region T1, second end region T2) of the light adjusting component 40 can be easily suppressed. In this case, it is more preferable that a dichroic dye and a black spacer are added to the light adjusting layer 41.

[0044] The end region T (first end region T1, second end region T2) of the light adjusting member 40 and the sealing region H (first sealing region H1, second sealing region H2) made of the sealing member 50 extend in the extension direction (the vertical direction in FIG. 1, the direction perpendicular to the paper surface in FIG. 2) of both (both sealing members, both sealing regions). In the example of FIG. 2, the cross-sectional shape of the sealing region H made of the sealing member 50 is curved, with an apex at the connection portion (step portion DX) of the first end region T1 and the second end region T2, or at the sealed portion of the first end region T1 slightly inside the connection portion. However, the cross-sectional shape of the sealing region H made of the sealing member 50 is not limited to that shown in FIG. 2, and various design modifications are possible. For example, the cross-sectional shape of the sealing region H made of the sealing member 50 may be curved, with an apex at the sealed portion of the second end region T2, or the cross-sectional shape of the sealing region H made of the sealing member 50 may be rectangular rather than curved.

[0045] As described above, the end region T (first end region T1, second end region T2) on the left side in FIG. 2 extends into the effective region of the light-transmitting member 20 (first light-transmitting member 21 and second light-transmitting member 22). As a result, the boundary between the area where the light-adjusting member 40 is present and the area where it is not present (i.e., the end of the light-adjusting member 40) extends into the effective region, causing hazy unevenness, which may result in poor visibility and a poor aesthetic appearance. In FIG. 2, for ease of explanation, the symbol M is used to denote the hazy unevenness that occurs at the boundary between the area where the light-adjusting member 40 is present and the area where it is not present (i.e., the end of the light-adjusting member 40). However, as will be described later, the misty unevenness M can be reduced to a level that allows for improved visibility and aesthetics by optimizing the thickness, width, shape, etc. of the sealing region H (first sealing region H1, second sealing region H2) that seals the end region T (first end region T1, second end region T2) of the dimming member 40.

[0046] In this embodiment, by setting the thickness variation in the extension direction of the sealing region H (first sealing region H1, second sealing region H2) that seals the end region T (first end region T1, second end region T2) of the dimming member 40 to less than 25 μm, preferably 20 μm or less, and more preferably 10 μm or less, the occurrence of hazy unevenness can be reduced, thereby improving visibility and aesthetics.

[0047] Here, the "thickness of the sealing region H (first sealing region H1, second sealing region H2)" refers to the distance (height) between the apex of the curved portion of the sealing region H (the highest apex if no curved portion is present) and the transparent base material layer 43X. That is, the "thickness of the sealing region H (first sealing region H1, second sealing region H2)" refers to the thickness (distance, height) of the sealing layer, using as a reference the surface (top surface in FIG. 2) of the transparent base material layer 43X on which the sealing region H (first sealing region H1, second sealing region H2) rests, opposite the transparent conductive layer 42X. In the example of FIG. 2, the highest point of the sealing member 50 (e.g., the apex of the curved portion) is located in the first sealing region H1, and therefore the "thickness of the sealing region H (first sealing region H1, second sealing region H2)" is defined as the distance (height) between the highest point of the sealing member 50 (e.g., the apex of the curved portion of the first sealing region H1) and the transparent base material layer 43X. On the other hand, unlike Figure 2, when the uppermost point of the sealing member 50 (e.g., the top of the curved portion) is present in the second sealing region H2, the "thickness of the sealing region H (first sealing region H1, second sealing region H2)" is defined as the distance (height) between the uppermost point of the sealing member 50 (e.g., the top of the curved portion of the second sealing region H2) and the transparent substrate layer 43X.

[0048] As described above, there is a degree of freedom in the layered structure of the light-adjusting component (light-adjusting sheet, light-adjusting film) 40, and therefore, the configuration in which the uppermost layer on one side (the upper side in FIG. 2) of the light-adjusting component 40 is a transparent substrate layer 43X (e.g., a PET layer) is merely an example. For example, if the uppermost layer on one side (the upper side in FIG. 2) of the light-adjusting component 40 is a functional layer such as a UV-cut layer, the "thickness of the sealing region H (first sealing region H1, second sealing region H2)" can be determined based on the functional layer. In summary, the "thickness of the sealing region H (first sealing region H1, second sealing region H2)" can be determined as the height from the reference surface of the light-adjusting component 40 to the raised portion of the sealing member 50 (e.g., the highest point of the sealing member 50).

[0049] Furthermore, "thickness variation in the extension direction of the sealing region H (first sealing region H1, second sealing region H2)" refers to the standard deviation σ of the thickness at each sampling point when N (N is a positive integer, for example, 10, 20, 30, etc.) sampling points are set in the extension direction of the sealing region H (first sealing region H1, second sealing region H2) (vertical direction in FIG. 1, perpendicular direction to the paper surface in FIG. 2) and the "thickness of the sealing region H (first sealing region H1, second sealing region H2)" is obtained at each sampling point. In other words, the "thickness of the sealing region H (first sealing region H1, second sealing region H2)" at any position in the extension direction of the sealing region H (first sealing region H1, second sealing region H2) (vertical direction in FIG. 1, perpendicular direction to the paper surface in FIG. 2) falls within a range of variation of less than 25 μm as the standard deviation σ.

[0050] Additionally / alternatively, by setting the variation in width in the extension direction of the sealing region H (first sealing region H1, second sealing region H2) that seals the end region T (first end region T1, second end region T2) of the dimming member 40 to less than 1 mm, preferably 0.5 mm or less, and more preferably 0.3 mm or less, the occurrence of hazy unevenness can be reduced, thereby improving visibility and aesthetics.

[0051] Here, the "width of the sealing region H (first sealing region H1, second sealing region H2)" refers to the distance between the left end and the right end of the sealing region H in Fig. 2. In other words, the "width of the sealing region H (first sealing region H1, second sealing region H2)" refers to the distance between the end of the sealing region H that is farthest from the light control layer (liquid crystal layer) 41 (the left end in Fig. 2) and the end that runs up onto the transparent substrate layer 43X (the right end in Fig. 2).

[0052] Furthermore, "variation in the width of the sealing region H (first sealing region H1, second sealing region H2) in the extension direction" refers to the standard deviation σ of the width of each sampling point when N (N is a positive integer, for example, 10, 20, 30, etc.) sampling points are set in the extension direction of the sealing region H (first sealing region H1, second sealing region H2) (vertical direction in FIG. 1, perpendicular to the paper surface in FIG. 2) and the "width of the sealing region H (first sealing region H1, second sealing region H2)" is obtained at each sampling point. In other words, the "width of the sealing region H (first sealing region H1, second sealing region H2)" at any position in the extension direction of the sealing region H (first sealing region H1, second sealing region H2) (vertical direction in FIG. 1, perpendicular to the paper surface in FIG. 2) falls within a standard deviation σ of less than 1 mm.

[0053] 3 illustrates the thickness A of the sealing region H (here, the first sealing region H1). The thickness A of the sealing region H (here, the first sealing region H1) is defined as the distance (height) between the top of the curved portion of the sealing region H (here, the first sealing region H1) and the transparent substrate layer 43X. Here, the thickness A itself (the absolute value of the thickness A) of the sealing region H (here, the first sealing region H1) is not important; what is important is to reduce the variation in the thickness A in the stretching direction (to less than 25 μm).

[0054] 3 illustrates the width B of the sealing region H (first sealing region H1, second sealing region H2). The width B of the sealing region H is the sum of the width B1 of the first sealing region H1 and the width B2 of the second sealing region H2.

[0055] The width B1 of the first sealing region H1 sealing the first end region T1 is preferably less than 6 mm, more preferably less than 5 mm, and even more preferably less than 3 mm. The width B2 of the second sealing region H2 sealing the second end region T2 is preferably less than 6 mm, more preferably less than 5 mm, and even more preferably less than 3 mm. The sum B of the width B1 of the first sealing region H1 sealing the first end region T1 and the width B2 of the second sealing region H2 sealing the second end region T2 is preferably less than 8 mm, more preferably less than 7 mm, and even more preferably less than 5 mm. By optimally setting the width B of the sealing region H (the width B1 of the first sealing region H1 and the width B2 of the second sealing region H2) so as to satisfy the above conditions, the visibility of the haze-like unevenness M can be reduced and the suppression effect can be further improved. Furthermore, it is preferable that the width B1 of the first sealing region T1 sealing the first end region T1 and the width B2 of the second sealing region T2 sealing the second end region T2 satisfy the relationship B1>B2. The first end region T1 is a region where the light switching layer 41 and the first sealing region H1 overlap in a planar view, so the visibility of the hazy unevenness M can be reduced more than in the second sealing region H2, which does not overlap with the light switching layer 41 in a planar view.

[0056] In FIG. 3 , the thickness of the transparent substrate layer 43X is indicated by C1, and the thickness of the transparent substrate layer 43Y is indicated by C2. The thickness C1 of the transparent substrate layer 43X and the thickness C2 of the transparent substrate layer 43Y are each preferably 50 μm or greater. The transparent substrate layers 43X and 43Y are thermocompressed together during the production of the laminated glass, during which wrinkles tend to form in the transparent substrate layers 43X and 43Y. When the thicknesses C1 and C2 of the transparent substrate layers 43X and 43Y are each within the above ranges, wrinkles are less likely to form in the light control component 40 during thermocompression bonding of the glass sheets together during the production of the laminated glass, and the effect of suppressing the hazy unevenness M can be further improved.

[0057] Fig. 4 is a cross-sectional view showing another embodiment of the light control module of the present embodiment, corresponding to Fig. 2. Components that overlap with those in Fig. 2 are given the same (common) reference numerals, and descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0058] 4, a pair of covering portions (handle portions) 60 are provided attached to the front and back surfaces of the first light-transmitting member 21 of the light-transmitting member 20. The pair of covering portions 60 cover the end region T (first end region T1, second end region T2) and the sealing region H (first sealing region H1, second sealing region H2) of the light-adjusting member 40. The pair of covering portions 60 spot-cover the left-side end region T (first end region T1, second end region T2) and sealing region H (first sealing region H1, second sealing region H2) that extend into the effective region of the translucent member 20 (first translucent member 21 and second translucent member 22), while not covering (not provided) the right-side end region T (first end region T1, second end region T2) and sealing region H (first sealing region H1, second sealing region H2) that do not extend into the effective region of the translucent member 20 (first translucent member 21 and second translucent member 22) and are hidden by the outer frame member 10.

[0059] In this way, by providing a pair of covering portions (handle portions) 60 that spot-cover the end regions T (first end region T1, second end region T2) and sealing regions H (first sealing region H1, second sealing region H2) that extend into the effective region of the translucent member 20 (first translucent member 21 and second translucent member 22), it is possible to more reliably conceal the misty unevenness M.

[0060] The pair of covering portions (pattern portions) 60 may be configured with, for example, a solid pattern or a dot pattern in a dark color such as black. The width of the pair of covering portions 60 is preferably set to be equal to or slightly larger than the width of the end region T (first end region T1, second end region T2) and the sealing region H (first sealing region H1, second sealing region H2) of the light adjusting component 40. This makes it possible to minimize the concealing region of the misty unevenness M and ensure the size of the light adjusting region.

[0061] The cover portion (handle portion) 60 does not necessarily have to be a pair, and may be provided on only one of the front and rear surfaces of the first light-transmitting member 21 or the second light-transmitting member 22 of the light-transmitting member 20.

[0062] 5A and 5B are diagrams showing an example of the effect of the covering portion (handle portion) 60 in an opaque state in which the light control function of the light control member 40 is exerted and in a transparent state in which the light control function of the light control member 40 is not exerted.

[0063] 5A and 5B, the light-adjusting member 40 is present in a portion extending in the left-right direction in the upper end region of the rectangular light-transmitting member 20 supported by the outer frame member 10, and the remaining lower region is an area where the light-adjusting member 40 is not present. Furthermore, at the boundary between the area where the light-adjusting member 40 is present and the area where it is not present (the end of the light-adjusting member 40), a covering portion 60 is provided that covers the end region T and the sealing region H that extend into the effective area of ​​the light-transmitting member 20 in a spot-like manner.

[0064] As shown in Figure 5A, in the opaque state in which the dimming function of the dimming component 40 is exerted, the covering portion 60 has the effect of hiding the hazy unevenness M that may occur, albeit very minute, at the boundary between the present and absent portions of the dimming component 40 (the end of the dimming component 40).

[0065] As shown in FIG. 5B , in a transparent state in which the light-adjusting function of the light-adjusting component 40 is not exerted, the covering portion 60 is visually recognized as a predetermined indicator within the effective area of ​​the light-transmitting component 20. For example, if the light-adjusting component 40 is currently in a transparent state in which the light-adjusting function is not exerted but is then switched to an opaque state in which the light-adjusting function is exerted, the user can flexibly grasp which parts of the effective area of ​​the light-transmitting component 20 will become opaque and which parts will remain transparent. More specifically, when applied to a vehicle windshield and in a transparent state in which the light-adjusting function of the light-adjusting component 40 is not exerted, the line of the covering portion 60 is visible, allowing the user to grasp the area that will be hidden when the sun visor function (light-adjusting function) is activated. This allows for flexible response, such as switching the light-adjusting function from off to on in the event that sunlight enters the area above the covering portion 60 within the effective area of ​​the light-transmitting component 20 and causes glare.

[0066] In this way, the covering portion (handle portion) 60 exerts different functions (actions and effects) when in an opaque state in which the dimming function of the light-adjusting member 40 is exerted, and when in a transparent state in which the dimming function of the light-adjusting member 40 is not exerted. Furthermore, the covering portion (handle portion) 60 exerts the above-mentioned different functions (actions and effects) at a position that enters the effective area of ​​the light-transmitting member 20, and is therefore a component that is distinct from the outer frame member 10, which does not enter the effective area of ​​the light-transmitting member 20 (rather, which defines the effective area of ​​the light-transmitting member 20).

[0067] <Numerical examples and demonstration experiments> To demonstrate the superiority of the light control component and light control module of this embodiment, the inventors actually created samples of Numerical Examples 1-14 and Comparative Example 1 and examined the visual evaluation level of misty unevenness. The samples of Numerical Examples 1-14 and Comparative Example 1 each differed in at least some of the following: the film thickness (thickness) of the sealing layer (sealing region), the variation σ1 in the film thickness (thickness) of the sealing layer (sealing region) in the extension direction, the covering width (sealing width) of the first sealing region, the covering width (sealing width) of the second sealing region, the combined value of the covering width (sealing width) of the first sealing region and the covering width (sealing width) of the second sealing region, the variation σ2 in the extension direction of the covering width (sealing width) of the sealing layer (sealing region), and the film thickness (thickness) of the transparent substrate layer. Furthermore, it was examined whether these various parameters satisfied the upper and lower limits specified in this embodiment described above. Unsatisfied portions are depicted with grayscale fills, while satisfied portions are depicted without grayscale fills. The visual evaluation level of the haze-like unevenness was confirmed by checking transmission and reflection from a position 1 m away under 1000 to 2000 lux using a three-wavelength fluorescent lamp. The visual evaluation level of the haze-like unevenness was classified into the following levels 4 to 1. Levels 4 to 2 correspond to a pass level where the object of this embodiment was achieved, and level 1 corresponds to a fail level where the object of this embodiment was not achieved. Level 4: No visible hazy unevenness. Level 3: Some hazy unevenness is visible, but not noticeable. Level 2: A hazy unevenness is visible, but not noticeable. Level 1: The effect of hazy unevenness is significant and the aesthetic appearance is significantly impaired.

[0068] To fabricate the sealing layer (sealing region), a Musashi Engineering MJET-S-2 was used as the dispensing device. A UV-curable resin (acrylic UV-curable resin) was used as the sealing material. The film thickness and coating width of the sealing layer (sealing region) were controlled by the sealing material discharge pressure and driving speed of the dispensing device.

[0069] The shape of the sealing layer (sealing region) was measured as follows. The film thickness (thickness) of the sealing layer (sealing region) was measured using a high-precision contact digital sensor GT2 series amplifier unit DIN rail type NPNGT2-71N. The coating width (sealing width) of the sealing layer (sealing region) was measured using a magnifying glass. The variation σ1 in the film thickness (thickness) of the sealing layer (sealing region) in the extension direction and the variation σ2 in the coating width (sealing width) of the sealing layer (sealing region) in the extension direction were measured based on 10 measurement points (sampling points) in the extension direction. In other words, the difference between the maximum and minimum values ​​of each measurement was calculated as the film thickness variation σ1 and the coating width variation σ2.

[0070] The film thickness (thickness) of the transparent substrate layer was measured using a high-precision contact digital sensor GT2 series amplifier unit DIN rail type NPNGT2-71N.

[0071] Furthermore, the method for measuring the film thickness of the sealing layer (sealing region) may be classified according to the measurement location (periphery and electrode portion). The outer periphery may be measured using a high-precision contact digital sensor (measurement method A), and the electrode portion may be measured using a micrometer (measurement method B).

[0072] In measurement method A using a high-precision contact digital sensor, first, prepare the high-precision contact digital sensor on a smooth surface such as a glass table and turn on the power. Next, install the sensor head so that it is within the film surface and determine the zero point. More specifically, after installing the sensor head, press the PRESET button to set the display to zero (if the film is warped, straighten it out before performing this). Next, move the film so that the sensor head is aligned with the measurement point (for example, the center or top of the sealing width), and then measure the measurement point. At this time, try to keep the position of the sensor head as still as possible, and if the film is warped, straighten it out before performing the measurement.

[0073] In micrometer measurement method B, first prepare the micrometer and turn it on. If the displayed value is not zero, press the zero reset button. Next, press the lever to clamp the measurement point (for example, the center or top of the seal width) and measure the measurement point. At this time, keep the film and micrometer horizontal (parallel).

[0074] The covering width (sealing width) of the sealing layer (sealing region) may be measured using a magnifying glass. More specifically, the magnifying glass is placed on the measurement point and viewed perpendicularly to the magnifying glass. The covering width (sealing width) to be measured may be, for example, the distance from the outermost to the innermost circumference of the sealing layer (sealing region).

[0075] 6 is a diagram showing the results of demonstration experiments for Numerical Examples 1-14 and Comparative Example 1. As shown in FIG. 6, in Numerical Examples 1-14, the thickness variation σ1 in the extension direction of the sealing layer is less than 25 μm, and in all cases, the visual evaluation level of the misty unevenness is pass level 4-level 2, which means that the objective of this embodiment can be achieved. On the other hand, in Comparative Example 1, the thickness variation σ1 in the extension direction of the sealing layer is not less than 25 μm, and the visual evaluation level of the misty unevenness is fail level 1, which means that the objective of this embodiment cannot be achieved.

[0076] As described above, the light control component of this embodiment is a light control component attached to a light-transmitting component, and includes an edge region that extends into the effective region of the light-transmitting component when attached to the light-transmitting component, and a sealing region that seals the edge region, with the thickness of the sealing region varying less than 25 μm in the direction of extension of the edge region. The light control module of this embodiment also includes a light-transmitting component and a light-transmitting component attached to the light-transmitting component, and the light control component includes an edge region that extends into the effective region of the light-transmitting component, and a sealing region that seals the edge region, with the thickness of the sealing region varying less than 25 μm in the direction of extension of the edge region. This reduces the occurrence of hazy unevenness, improving visibility and aesthetics, even when the boundary between the presence and absence of the light control component (the edge of the light control component) extends into the effective region of the light-transmitting component.

[0077] This embodiment also relates to laminated glass in which a light control film is sandwiched between a first substrate and a second substrate via an intermediate layer. In a plan view, an edge region having the edge of the light control film is visible from the surface on the first substrate side, and the light control film has a sealing layer at the edge, and by satisfying at least one of the following: thickness variation σ1 in the stretching direction of the sealing layer is less than 25 μm, and width variation σ2 in the stretching direction of the sealing layer (the sum of the first coating width and the second coating width) is less than 1 mm, the occurrence of hazy unevenness at the edge of the light control film can be reduced, thereby improving visibility and aesthetics.

[0078] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications can be made in the implementation stage without departing from the spirit of the invention. Furthermore, the embodiments may be implemented in appropriate combinations, in which case the combined effects can be obtained. Furthermore, the above-described embodiments include various inventions, and various inventions can be extracted by combining selected elements from the disclosed elements. For example, if the problem can be solved and the desired effect can be obtained even if some elements are deleted from all elements shown in the embodiments, the configuration from which these elements are deleted can be extracted as an invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0079] 1 Dimming Module 10 Outer frame member 20. Light-transmitting member 21 First light-transmitting member 22 Second light-transmitting member 30 Interlayer (middle layer) 40 Light-controlling materials (light-control sheets, light-control films) 41 Dimming layer (liquid crystal layer) 42X 42Y Transparent conductive layer (transparent electrode layer) 43X 43Y Transparent base layer 50 Sealing member 60 Covering part (handle) T end area T1 first end area T2 second end area H Sealing area H1 1st sealing area H2 2nd sealing area

Claims

1. A light control member attached to a light-transmitting member, an end region that extends into an effective region of the light-transmitting member when attached to the light-transmitting member; a sealing region that seals the end region; and The sealing region has a thickness variation of less than 25 μm in the extension direction of the end region. A light-controlling element characterized by:

2. The sealing region has a width variation of less than 1 mm in the extension direction of the end region. The light control member according to claim 1 .

3. the end region has a first end region and a second end region; The sealing region includes a first sealing region that seals the first end region and a second sealing region that seals the second end region. The light control member according to claim 1 or 2.

4. The first end region and the second end region are located in different thickness and width directions and are separated by a step portion. The light control member according to claim 3 .

5. the width of the first sealing region sealing the first end region is less than 6 mm, and / or the width of the second sealing region sealing the second end region is less than 6 mm; The light control member according to claim 3 .

6. the sum of the width of the first sealing region sealing the first end region and the width of the second sealing region sealing the second end region is less than 8 mm; The light control member according to claim 3 .

7. The light-adjusting member is a light-adjusting sheet having a light-adjusting layer, a pair of transparent conductive layers located on both sides of the light-adjusting layer, and a pair of transparent substrate layers located on both sides of the pair of transparent conductive layers. The light control member according to claim 1 or 2.

8. Each of the pair of transparent substrate layers has a thickness of 50 μm or more. The light control member according to claim 7 .

9. A light-transmitting member; a light control member attached to the light-transmitting member; and The light control member is an end region extending into the effective region of the light-transmitting member; a sealing region that seals the end region; and The sealing region has a thickness variation of less than 25 μm in the extension direction of the end region. A dimming module characterized by:

10. a covering portion attached to the light-transmitting member and covering the end region and the sealing region of the light-adjusting member; The dimming module according to claim 9 .

11. The covering portion is visually recognized as a predetermined indicator within an effective area of ​​the light-transmitting member in a transparent state in which the light-control function of the light-control member is not exerted. The dimming module according to claim 10 .

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