Method controlling permeability of glass of vehicle, system for implementing the same and vehicle

Abstract

To provide a method controlling permeability of glass of a vehicle which can suppress cabin temperature from rising to an uncomfortable temperature.SOLUTION: A vehicle includes: a first light control glass; a first sensor which detects an inside status of the vehicle; and a processor which is connected with the first light control glass and the first sensor. The processor is constituted to determine whether permeability of the first light control glass is adjusted or not based on at least data from the first sensor and additional data which is related to at least one of the inside status of the vehicle other than a first status and information in association with the first light control glass. The processor is constituted to transmit, when determining that the permeability of the first light control glass is adjusted, a signal to change the permeability of the first light control glass to the first light control glass.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Background technology]

[0001] In vehicles exposed to high-intensity sunlight, the temperature inside the vehicle increases as sunlight is transmitted through one or more windows of the vehicle. In some instances where the vehicle is parked, prolonged exposure to sunlight transmitted through the vehicle windows can increase the temperature inside the vehicle to an uncomfortable level. In some instances where the vehicle is moving, sunlight transmitted through the vehicle's side windows can cause glare and distract the driver.

[0002] Methods for adjusting sunlight entering a vehicle can include an occupant of the vehicle actively adjusting the transmittance of the vehicle's windows. In some cases, this active involvement by the occupant includes manipulating an internal system of the vehicle or a device connectable to the vehicle. Methods for adjusting light entering a vehicle can include adjusting the transmittance of the glass based on the intensity of an external light source impinging on the vehicle. Summary of the Invention

[0003] One aspect of the present description relates to a vehicle. The vehicle includes a first photochromic glass. The vehicle further includes a first sensor configured to detect a first state inside the vehicle. The vehicle further includes a processor connected to the first photochromic glass and the first sensor. The processor is configured to determine whether to adjust the transmittance of the first photochromic glass based on data from at least the first sensor and additional data, the additional data relating to at least one of a state inside the vehicle other than the first state or information related to the first photochromic glass. The processor is further configured to send a signal to the first photochromic glass to change the transmittance of the first photochromic glass in response to a determination to change the transmittance of the first photochromic glass.

[0004] One aspect of this description relates to a vehicle. The vehicle includes a first photochromic glass. The vehicle further includes a sensor configured to detect an amount of light in a vehicle interior. The vehicle further includes a processor connected to the first photochromic glass and the sensor. The processor is configured to determine an amount of light in the vehicle interior. The processor is further configured to determine whether to adjust the transmittance of the first photochromic glass based on the amount of light and at least one additional condition in the vehicle interior. The processor is further configured to send a signal to the first photochromic glass to change the transmittance of the first photochromic glass in response to determining to change the transmittance of the first photochromic glass.

[0005] One aspect of this description relates to a method, the method including determining a state inside a vehicle based on sensor data from at least two different sensors, the method further including determining whether to adjust a transmittance of a first photochromic glass based on the sensor data, and the method further including, in response to determining to change the transmittance of the first photochromic glass, transmitting a signal to the first photochromic glass to change the transmittance of the first photochromic glass. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0006] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a flow chart of a method for controlling the transmittance of glass in a vehicle, according to some embodiments. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a vehicle, according to some embodiments. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a block diagram of a system for controlling the transmittance of vehicle glass, according to some embodiments. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0007] Aspects of the present disclosure are best understood from the following detailed description read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that, according to standard industry practice, various features have not been drawn to scale. In fact, the dimensions of various features may be arbitrarily increased or decreased for clarity of discussion.

[0008] The following disclosure provides many different embodiments or examples for implementing various features of the provided subject matter. Specific examples of components, values, operations, materials, arrangements, and the like are described below to simplify the disclosure. These listings are, of course, merely examples and are not intended to be limiting. Other components, values, operations, materials, arrangements, and the like are contemplated. For example, in the following description, a first feature formed above or on a second feature may include embodiments in which the first and second features are formed in direct contact with each other, as well as embodiments in which an additional feature is formed between the first and second features, such that the first and second features are no longer in direct contact with each other. Furthermore, the present disclosure may repeat reference numerals and / or letters in various examples. This repetition is for the purposes of brevity and clarity and does not, in itself, dictate a relationship between the various embodiments and / or configurations discussed.

[0009] Additionally, spatially relative terms such as "below," "lower," "lower side," "above," and "upper" may be used herein to describe the relationship of one element or feature to another, as shown in the figures. The spatially relative terms are intended to encompass various orientations of the device during use or operation in addition to the orientation shown in the figures. The device may be otherwise oriented (rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptors used herein may be interpreted accordingly.

[0010] Switchable glass can change from nearly transparent to almost completely opaque based on the voltage applied to it. The molecular structure of the switchable glass changes based on the voltage applied to the glass. The transmittance of most switchable glass changes significantly in response to a small voltage, for example, around 1 volt (V). Because the transmittance can change significantly in response to a small voltage, the transmittance of switchable glass in vehicle windows can be adjusted with minimal risk of draining the vehicle's power source, such as the vehicle battery.

[0011] Vehicles exposed to sunlight, whether parked or moving, often experience temperature increases as sunlight passes through the vehicle's windows and enters the vehicle's interior. Changing the transmittance of one or more windows to reduce the amount of light entering the vehicle can help mitigate temperature increases inside the vehicle. Using photochromic glass in a vehicle to change the transmittance of the vehicle's windows can help control temperature increases inside the vehicle while utilizing a small amount of power. Using a small amount of power can help reduce the risk of draining the vehicle's battery and extend the driving range of electric vehicles or reduce the power consumption of hybrid or gasoline-powered vehicles.

[0012] Furthermore, predicting vehicle temperature increases based on the vehicle's location or a predicted weather forecast further enhances the ability to mitigate temperature increases within the vehicle. Using the vehicle's location can determine whether the vehicle is parked in a location that is expected to be shaded by some fixed structure, such as a building. Furthermore, using the weather forecast can determine whether sunny, cloudy, or rainy weather is expected for that day. Taking the vehicle's location or weather forecast into account helps avoid power consumption during times when significant temperature increases are not expected. Furthermore, taking the vehicle's location or weather forecast into account can help predict times when the vehicle is expected to be exposed to sunlight, allowing the transmittance of the vehicle's windows to be changed before or immediately after the vehicle is exposed to sunlight, rather than waiting until the vehicle's temperature has already begun to increase. As a result, taking the vehicle's location or weather forecast into account reduces the overall increase in vehicle temperature.

[0013] Furthermore, selectively changing the transmittance of various vehicle windows can help control vehicle temperature while conserving power consumption. In situations where sunlight is shining through the passenger-side window of a vehicle, reducing the transmittance of only the passenger-side window can help control vehicle temperature increases while avoiding the power consumption associated with reducing the transmittance of other windows, such as the rear window or driver-side window. Furthermore, taking into account the vehicle's operating state to adjust the transmittance can help reduce the risk of interfering with the driver's operation of the vehicle. For example, reducing the transmittance of the windshield can be prohibited while the vehicle is in operation. Similarly, in some cases, the transmittance of the rear window can also be prohibited from falling below a certain threshold.

[0014] Furthermore, vehicles parked overnight are at risk of being broken into to access valuables inside the vehicle. Reducing the transmittance of vehicle windows at night helps to obscure whether valuables are present inside the vehicle. As a result, valuables cannot be seen from outside the vehicle, reducing the risk of the vehicle being broken into to access valuables.

[0015] This description includes methods and systems for adjusting the transmittance of one or more windows of a vehicle based on information received by the vehicle, which helps control the temperature inside the vehicle and reduces the risk of the vehicle being destroyed compared to other approaches.

[0016] FIG. 1 is a flowchart of a method 100 for controlling the transmittance of glass in a vehicle according to some embodiments. Method 100 can be used to regulate the temperature inside the vehicle or to help reduce the risk of vandalism in the vehicle. In some embodiments, method 100 is implemented using system 300 (FIG. 3). In some embodiments, method 100 is implemented using a system other than system 300 (FIG. 3). In some embodiments, method 100 is implemented in vehicle 200 (FIG. 2). In some embodiments, method 100 is implemented in a vehicle other than vehicle 200 (FIG. 2).

[0017] In operation 105, an interior condition of the vehicle is detected using an onboard sensor. In some embodiments, the interior condition includes light intensity inside the vehicle. In some embodiments, the interior condition includes temperature inside the vehicle. In some embodiments, the onboard sensor includes a sensor configured to measure temperature inside the vehicle, such as a thermometer. In some embodiments, the onboard sensor includes a sensor configured to measure light intensity inside the vehicle, such as a photodiode or photoresistor. In some embodiments, multiple conditions inside the vehicle are detected. In some embodiments, a single condition inside the vehicle is detected. In some embodiments, detecting the interior condition of the vehicle includes detecting an angle of sunlight entering the interior of the vehicle. In some embodiments, as the angle of sunlight entering the vehicle approaches 90 degrees, the intensity of the sunlight and the amount of heat associated with sunlight entering the vehicle increase. Thus, in some embodiments, a change in transmittance is determined based on the detected angle of sunlight entering the vehicle. In some embodiments, the magnitude of the transmittance adjustment is based on the detected angle of sunlight entering the vehicle. That is, the closer the angle of sunlight entering the vehicle is to 90 degrees, the greater the magnitude of the transmittance adjustment.

[0018] Operation 110 detects a current transmittance of at least one vehicle window. In some embodiments, the default transmittance of one or more vehicle windows, i.e., the transmittance when no voltage is applied, is the minimum transmittance. In some embodiments, the default transmittance of one or more vehicle windows is the maximum transmittance. In some embodiments, the minimum transmittance is at or near 0% transmittance of incident light. In some embodiments, the minimum transmittance is 10% or less transmittance of incident light. In some embodiments, the maximum transmittance is in the range of about 75% to about 85% transmittance of incident light. In some embodiments, the current transmittance of the at least one vehicle window is determined based on the default transmittance of the at least one vehicle window and the voltage applied to the at least one vehicle window. In some embodiments, the current transmittance of the at least one vehicle window is determined based on a sensor inside the vehicle positioned to receive light passing through the at least one vehicle window. In some embodiments, the current transmittance is determined for each window in the vehicle. In some embodiments, the current transmittance is determined based on information about which window in the vehicle is to have its transmittance adjusted. For example, in some embodiments where sunlight enters the vehicle interior through the passenger side window, the current transmittance is determined only for the passenger side window. Determining the current transmittance for each of the vehicle windows provides a more comprehensive consideration of the vehicle state. Limiting the determination of the current transmittance to only those windows for which transmission adjustments are performed reduces processing time and processing power consumption.

[0019] In operation 115, a current state of the vehicle is determined. The current state of the vehicle relates to whether the vehicle is being driven, parked, or idled. In some embodiments, the vehicle is determined to be in a driving state in response to the vehicle's transmission being in a position other than park. In some embodiments, the vehicle is determined to be in a driving state in response to the vehicle's transmission being in park and a time period less than a first threshold having elapsed since the transmission was shifted into park. In some embodiments, the vehicle is determined to be in an idling state in response to the vehicle's transmission being in park and a time period equal to or greater than a first threshold but less than a second threshold having elapsed. In some embodiments, the vehicle is determined to be in a parked state in response to the vehicle's ignition being off. In some embodiments, the vehicle is determined to be in a parked state in response to the transmission being in park and a time period equal to or greater than a second threshold having elapsed. Determining the current state of the vehicle can be used to determine whether transmittance adjustment is prohibited or limited for one or more windows of the vehicle. Prohibiting transmittance adjustment means that changes to the window transmittance are not permitted. Limiting window transmittance adjustment means that the window transmittance can be adjusted, but only within a predetermined range. For example, a minimum window transmittance for a moving vehicle may be set by a local government. In some embodiments, reducing the transmittance of the windshield is prohibited when the vehicle is in a driving or idling state to reduce the risk of affecting the driver's operation of the vehicle. In some embodiments, the transmittance of the rear window of the vehicle is limited when the vehicle is in a driving state. In some embodiments, the transmittance of the rear window of the vehicle is not limited when the vehicle is idling. In some embodiments, none of the vehicle's windows are prohibited or limited from adjusting their transmittance when the vehicle is parked.

[0020] In operation 120, forecast information regarding the vehicle's location is received. In some embodiments, the forecast information includes weather forecast information. In some embodiments, the forecast information includes sun position information, such as sunrise or sunset times. In some embodiments, the forecast information is received using a transceiver onboard the vehicle. In some embodiments, the forecast information is received from a connection to a mobile device, such as a cell phone. The forecast information is obtained about the vehicle's location to improve the accuracy of the forecast information. In some embodiments, a global positioning system (GPS) in the vehicle is used to determine the vehicle's location. In some embodiments, a GPS system of a mobile device connected to the vehicle is used to determine the vehicle's location. The forecast information can be used to determine whether sunlight is likely to hit a window of the vehicle, when sunlight is likely to hit the vehicle, and which window of the vehicle the sunlight will hit.

[0021] Use of the forecast information facilitates predicting changes in the temperature inside the vehicle. For example, in some embodiments where the vehicle is currently in a rainy environment but sunny weather is predicted for later, the adjustment of the transmittance can be delayed until a time when sunny weather is expected based on the forecast information. In some embodiments, the adjustment of the transmittance is scheduled before the time when sunny weather is predicted, further reducing the risk of the temperature inside the vehicle reaching an uncomfortable level. Delaying the change in the transmittance of the vehicle windows helps reduce the power consumption of the vehicle while still controlling the temperature inside the vehicle. As another example, in some embodiments, as sunset approaches at the vehicle's location, the vehicle increases the transmittance of the vehicle windows to reduce the power consumption associated with maintaining low transmittance windows at a time when the risk of the temperature inside the vehicle rising to an uncomfortable level is reduced.

[0022] Vehicle position data can also be used to determine whether the vehicle is likely to be positioned in a shaded location, thereby reducing sunlight hitting the vehicle's windows. For example, if vehicle position information indicates that the vehicle is in a parking garage or adjacent to a building, adjusting the vehicle's window transmittance may not affect the temperature increase inside the vehicle. In some embodiments, the vehicle's location is determined based on a combination of a GPS system and a map stored on the vehicle or a mobile device connected to the vehicle. In some embodiments, a combination of vehicle position and forecast information can be used to determine whether to adjust the vehicle's window transmittance. For example, in some embodiments, if the vehicle is currently in a shaded location adjacent to a building, but forecast information indicates that sunlight hitting the vehicle will increase in the future, the window transmittance adjustment can be adjusted based on the expected time when sunlight hitting the vehicle will increase.

[0023] In some embodiments, operation 120 is omitted. Omitting operation 120 reduces the processing burden on the vehicle for determining whether to adjust the transmittance of one or more vehicle windows. Including operation 120 helps increase accuracy in controlling the temperature inside the vehicle.

[0024] In operation 125, a determination is made as to whether to adjust the transmittance of one or more windows of the vehicle. The determination as to whether to adjust the transmittance of one or more windows of the vehicle is based on a detected internal state of the vehicle. In some embodiments, the determination as to whether to adjust the transmittance of one or more windows of the vehicle is also based on at least one of a current transmittance of at least one window, a current state of the vehicle, received forecast information, or vehicle position information.

[0025] In some embodiments, the decision to adjust the transmittance is based on a combination of detected internal conditions of the vehicle. That is, in some embodiments, inputs from multiple different sensors are used to determine whether to adjust the transmittance. Table 1 below provides some example combinations of detected internal conditions and the results of the decision to adjust the transmittance. Those skilled in the art will understand that these examples are not limiting and that other combinations of detected internal conditions are within the scope of this description. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the combination of detected internal conditions can be used along with the current state of the vehicle, received forecast information, or vehicle position information to determine whether to adjust the transmittance. [Table 1]

[0026] In some embodiments, the decision to adjust the transmittance further includes suppressing abrupt changes in the transmittance. For example, when a detected internal condition is close to a threshold, the decision to adjust the transmittance is more likely to switch abruptly. To reduce driver distraction and / or power consumption, some embodiments set a predetermined period for how often the transmittance is allowed to be adjusted. In some embodiments, the predetermined period varies for each window in the vehicle. In some embodiments, the predetermined period ranges from 1 minute to 10 minutes. In some embodiments, multiple changes in the transmittance are allowed within the predetermined period, and the number of times the transmittance is changed within the predetermined period has a maximum value. In some embodiments, the maximum value varies for each window in the vehicle. In some embodiments, the maximum value ranges from 1 to 5. In some embodiments, the maximum value is 3. Table 2 below provides some examples of combinations of detected internal conditions and the number of changes within the predetermined period, and the corresponding results of the decision to adjust the transmittance. One skilled in the art will understand that these examples are not limiting and that other combinations of detected internal conditions are within the scope of this description. Additionally, in some embodiments, a combination of the detected internal conditions can be used along with the vehicle's current state, received forecast information, or vehicle position information to determine whether to adjust the transmittance and the number of transmittance changes within a given period of time. [Table 2]

[0027] In some embodiments, determining whether to adjust the transmittance further includes determining a magnitude of the transmittance adjustment. Several factors are discussed above regarding the risk of elevated temperatures inside the vehicle. In some embodiments, the magnitude of the transmittance adjustment increases as the risk of elevated temperatures inside the vehicle increases.

[0028] In response to a decision to adjust the transmittance, i.e., a "Yes" at method 100, method 100 proceeds to operation 130. In response to a decision not to adjust the transmittance, i.e., a "No" at method 100, method 100 returns to operation 105.

[0029] Operation 130 determines which windows to adjust their transmittance. The determination of which windows to adjust their transmittance is based on the current state of the vehicle. Operation 130 prohibits or limits changes to the transmittance of certain windows, e.g., the windshield, based on the current state of the vehicle, as discussed above. In some embodiments, the determination of which windows to adjust their transmittance is based on the direction from which sunlight is entering the vehicle. In some embodiments, the determination of which windows to adjust their transmittance is based on vehicle position information. In some embodiments, the determination of which windows to adjust their transmittance is based on a detected interior state of the vehicle. That is, in some embodiments, as the temperature increases, the transmittance of more windows is adjusted to help mitigate the temperature increase inside the vehicle. In some embodiments, the determination of which windows to adjust their transmittance is based on predictive information, e.g., information indicating the direction from which sunlight is expected to enter the vehicle. In some embodiments, the magnitude of the transmittance adjustment of a first window of the vehicle is different from the magnitude of the transmittance adjustment of a second window of the vehicle.

[0030] Operation 135 includes transmitting a transmittance adjustment confirmation. In some embodiments, the transmittance adjustment confirmation is transmitted wirelessly. In some embodiments, the transmittance adjustment confirmation is transmitted via a wired connection. In some embodiments, the transmittance adjustment confirmation is displayed on the vehicle console. In some embodiments, the transmittance adjustment confirmation is transmitted to a mobile device accessible to the user. In some embodiments, the transmittance adjustment confirmation comprises a warning that is automatically displayed on the vehicle console, a mobile device accessible to the user, or another suitable device accessible to the user. In some embodiments, the warning is an audible warning or a visual warning.

[0031] In some embodiments, the transmittance adjustment confirmation includes information indicating which windows' transmittances are to be adjusted. In some embodiments, the transmittance adjustment confirmation includes information indicating the magnitude of the adjustment for each of the adjusted windows. In some embodiments, method 100 does not proceed beyond operation 135 until an affirmative action approving the transmittance adjustment is received, e.g., approval from a user. In some embodiments, method 100 proceeds beyond operation 135 after a predetermined time has elapsed after sending the transmittance adjustment confirmation, unless an affirmative action rejecting the transmittance adjustment is received, e.g., rejection from a user.

[0032] In some embodiments, operation 135 is omitted. In some embodiments, operation 135 is omitted based on the detected current vehicle state. For example, in some embodiments, operation 135 is omitted while the vehicle is in a parked state. In some embodiments, operation 135 is maintained while the vehicle is detected to be in a driving or idling state. Omitting operation 135 helps reduce the processing load on the vehicle and speed up transmittance adjustments to better regulate the temperature inside the vehicle. Maintaining operation 135 helps avoid driver distraction while operating the vehicle due to unexpected transmittance adjustments of windows visible to the driver.

[0033] In operation 140, the transmittance of the window identified in operation 130 is adjusted. The transmittance of the window identified in operation 130 is adjusted by the amount determined in operation 130. The transmittance is adjusted by applying a voltage to the glass to reorient the molecules of the light control glass of the window, making the window more transparent or opaque. In some embodiments, a controller, e.g., part of system 300 (FIG. 3), controls the voltage applied to the window to adjust the transmittance according to the determination in operation 130. In some embodiments, the voltage applied to the window is supplied from the vehicle's battery. In some embodiments, the voltage applied to the window is supplied from a vehicle power source separate from the vehicle's battery.

[0034] The above description of method 100 focuses on reducing sunlight entering the vehicle to prevent or reduce temperature buildup inside the vehicle. Those skilled in the art will understand that it is also possible to control transmittance to add sunlight to the vehicle interior. For example, in some embodiments, when forecast information indicates that cold weather is expected, the vehicle windows are adjusted to be more transparent, increasing the temperature inside the vehicle and increasing comfort inside the vehicle for the occupants.

[0035] Those skilled in the art will understand that modifications to method 100 are within the scope of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, at least one operation is added to method 100. For example, in some embodiments, a user may set one or more criteria for adjusting the transmittance of a vehicle window. In some embodiments, at least one operation of method 100 is omitted. For example, in some embodiments, operation 135 is omitted. In some embodiments, the order of operations of method 100 is adjusted. For example, in some embodiments, operation 115 is performed before operation 105.

[0036] 2 is a perspective view of a vehicle 200 according to some embodiments. The vehicle 200 is capable of implementing the method 100 (FIG. 1). In some embodiments, the vehicle 200 is capable of implementing the method 100 (FIG. 1) using a system 300 (FIG. 3) mounted on the vehicle. In some embodiments, the vehicle 200 is capable of implementing the method 100 (FIG. 1) based on receiving instructions from a system 300 (FIG. 3) that is remote or separable from the vehicle 200. In some embodiments where the system 300 (FIG. 3) is remote or separable from the vehicle 200, the vehicle 200 is configured to receive instructions to implement the method 100 (FIG. 1) via a wireless or wired connection.

[0037] Vehicle 200 includes a number of windows with adjustable transmittance. Vehicle 200 further includes a power source that applies a voltage to the windows to adjust the transmittance. In some embodiments, the power source is fixed to the vehicle. In some embodiments, the power source is removable from the vehicle.

[0038] Vehicle 200 includes windshield 205. Windshield 205 may include photochromic glass to adjust the transmittance of light passing through windshield 205. In some embodiments, vehicle 200 prevents adjustment of the transmittance of windshield 205 based on the state of the vehicle. For example, adjustment of the transmittance of windshield 205 is prohibited when the vehicle is in a driving state.

[0039] Vehicle 200 further includes rear window 210. Rear window 210 includes photochromic glass and can adjust the transmittance of light passing through rear window 210. In some embodiments, vehicle 200 limits the adjustment of the transmittance of rear window 210 based on the state of the vehicle. For example, the transmittance of rear window 210 is limited so as not to fall below a predetermined threshold.

[0040] Vehicle 200 further includes a sunroof 215. Sunroof 215 includes light-controlling glass, and is capable of adjusting the transmittance of light passing through sunroof 215.

[0041] Vehicle 200 further includes a plurality of side windows 220a and 220b, collectively referred to as side windows 220. FIG. 2 includes the front side windows of vehicle 200 in a retracted position to allow a view into the interior of the vehicle. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the front side windows are also part of vehicle 200. Side windows 220 include photochromic glass that can adjust the transmittance of light passing through side windows 220. FIG. 2 includes only the driver's side side window. Those skilled in the art will recognize that vehicle 200 also includes a side window 220 on the passenger side of the vehicle.

[0042] The vehicle 200 can independently adjust the transmittance of any of the windshield 205, rear window 210, sunroof 215, or side windows 220. This independent adjustment includes both whether or not to adjust the transmittance and the magnitude of such adjustment of the transmittance. Furthermore, the vehicle 200 can independently adjust the transmittance of the vehicle's side windows 220. That is, the vehicle 200 can adjust the transmittance of the side window 220a while maintaining the transmittance of the side window 220b. Furthermore, the vehicle 200 can adjust the transmittance of the side window 220a with a different magnitude of the transmittance adjustment of the side window 220b. Furthermore, the vehicle 200 can independently adjust the driver's side side window 220 relative to the passenger's side, and vice versa.

[0043] Those skilled in the art will recognize that vehicles of various sizes having various numbers of windows are within the scope of this description. For example, in some embodiments, vehicle 200 does not include a sunroof 215, or vehicle 200 includes only two side windows 220 on each side of vehicle 200.

[0044] 3 is a block diagram of a system 300 for controlling the transmittance of a vehicle window in accordance with one or more embodiments. The system 300 includes a hardware processor 302 and a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium 304 encoded with computer program code 306, i.e., storing an executable set of instructions. The computer-readable storage medium 304 is also encoded with instructions 307 for interacting with a manufacturing machine to manufacture memory arrays. The processor 302 is electrically coupled to the computer-readable storage medium 304 via a bus 308. The processor 302 is also electrically connected to an input / output (I / O) interface 310 via the bus 308. A network interface 312 is also electrically coupled to the processor 302 via the bus 308. The network interface 312 is connected to a network 314, such that the processor 302 and the computer-readable storage medium 304 can be connected to external elements via the network 314. The processor 302 is configured to execute computer program code 306 encoded on the computer-readable storage medium 304 to enable a computer to perform some or all of the operations described in the method 100 (FIG. 1) or implemented by the vehicle 200 (FIG. 2).

[0045] In some embodiments, processor 302 is a central processing unit (CPU), a multiprocessor, a distributed processing system, an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), and / or other suitable processing unit.

[0046] In some embodiments, the computer-readable storage medium 304 is an electronic, magnetic, optical, electromagnetic, infrared, and / or semiconductor system (or apparatus or device). For example, the computer-readable storage medium 504 includes a semiconductor or solid-state memory, magnetic tape, a removable computer diskette, a random access memory (RAM), a read-only memory (ROM), a rigid magnetic disk, and / or an optical disk. In some embodiments using an optical disk, the computer-readable storage medium 504 includes a compact disk-read-only memory (CD-ROM), a compact disk-read / write (CD-R / W), and / or a digital video disk (DVD).

[0047] In some embodiments, storage medium 304 stores computer program code 304 configured to cause system 300 to perform some or all of the operations as described in method 100 ( FIG. 1 ) or implemented by vehicle 200 ( FIG. 2 ). In some embodiments, storage medium 304 also stores information used to perform some or all of the operations as described in method 100 ( FIG. 1 ) or implemented by vehicle 200 ( FIG. 2 ), as well as information generated in performing some or all of the operations as described in method 100 ( FIG. 1 ) or implemented by vehicle 200 ( FIG. 2 ), such as sensor data parameters 316, window transmittance parameters 318, predicted information parameters 320, vehicle state parameters 322, and / or a set of executable instructions for performing some or all of the operations as described in method 100 ( FIG. 1 ) or implemented by vehicle 200 ( FIG. 2 ).

[0048] In some embodiments, storage medium 304 stores instructions 307 for interacting with an external device, such as a mobile device, that enable processor 302 to generate or receive instructions readable by the external device during performance of some or all of the operations described in method 100 (FIG. 1) or implemented by vehicle 200 (FIG. 2).

[0049] System 300 includes an I / O interface 310. I / O interface 310 is coupled to external circuitry. In some embodiments, I / O interface 310 includes a keyboard, keypad, mouse, trackball, trackpad, touchscreen, and / or cursor direction keys for communicating information and commands to processor 302.

[0050] System 300 also includes a network interface 312 coupled to processor 302. Network interface 312 enables system 300 to communicate with a network 314 to which one or more other computer systems are connected. Network interface 312 includes a wireless network interface, such as BLUETOOTH, WIFI, WIMAX, GPRS, or WCDMA, or a wired network interface, such as ETHERNET, USB, or IEEE-1394. In some embodiments, some or all of the operations described in method 100 (FIG. 1) or implemented by vehicle 200 (FIG. 2) are implemented in more than one system 300, and information, such as sensor data, window transmittance, forecast information, or vehicle status, is exchanged between different systems 300 via network 314.

[0051] Supplementary Note 1 One aspect of this description relates to a vehicle. The vehicle includes a first photochromic glass. The vehicle further includes a first sensor configured to detect a first state inside the vehicle. The vehicle further includes a processor connected to the first photochromic glass and the first sensor. The processor is configured to determine whether to adjust the transmittance of the first photochromic glass based on data from at least the first sensor and additional data. Here, the additional data relates to at least one of a state inside the vehicle other than the first state or information related to the first photochromic glass. The processor is further configured to send a signal to the first photochromic glass to change the transmittance of the first photochromic glass in response to determining to change the transmittance of the first photochromic glass.

[0052] Supplementary Note 2 10. The vehicle of claim 1, wherein the sensor is configured to detect an amount of sunlight entering an interior of the vehicle.

[0053] Supplementary Note 3 10. The vehicle of claim 1 or 2, wherein the sensor is configured to detect a temperature inside the vehicle.

[0054] Supplementary Note 4 4. The vehicle of any one of Supplementary Notes 1 to 3, wherein the processor is configured to determine whether to adjust the transmittance of the first photochromic glass further based on at least one of vehicle position information, a current state of the vehicle, forecast information, a number of times the transmittance has changed within a predetermined time period, or a detected angle of sunlight entering the interior of the vehicle.

[0055] Supplementary Note 5 A vehicle according to any one of Supplementary Notes 1 to 4, further comprising a second photochromic glass separate from the first photochromic glass.

[0056] Supplementary Note 6 10. The vehicle of claim 5, wherein the processor is configured to determine whether to adjust the transmittance of the second photochromic glass based on data from the sensor, the decision regarding the second photochromic glass being independent of the decision regarding the first photochromic glass.

[0057] Supplementary Note 7 10. The vehicle of claim 5 or 6, wherein the processor is configured to send a signal to the first photochromic glass to adjust the transmittance of the first photochromic glass by a first magnitude and to send a second signal to the second photochromic glass to adjust the transmittance of the second photochromic glass by a second magnitude different from the first magnitude.

[0058] Supplementary Note 8 A vehicle according to any one of Supplementary Notes 1 to 7, wherein the first light control glass is one of a windshield, a sunroof, a rear window, or a side window.

[0059] Supplementary Note 9 A vehicle according to any one of Supplementary Notes 1 to 8, wherein the initial setting transmittance of the first photochromic glass is the maximum transmittance of the first photochromic glass.

[0060] Supplementary Note 10 A vehicle as described in any one of Supplementary Notes 1 to 9, wherein the processor is further configured to prohibit or limit adjustment of the transmittance of the first photochromic glass based on a current state of the vehicle.

[0061] Supplementary Note 11 One aspect of this description relates to a vehicle. The vehicle includes a first photochromic glass. The vehicle further includes a sensor configured to detect an amount of light in a vehicle interior. The vehicle further includes a processor connected to the first photochromic glass and the sensor. The processor is configured to determine an amount of light in the vehicle interior. The processor is further configured to determine whether to adjust the transmittance of the first photochromic glass based on the amount of light in the vehicle interior and at least one additional condition. The processor is further configured to send a signal to the first photochromic glass to change the transmittance of the first photochromic glass in response to determining to change the transmittance of the first photochromic glass.

[0062] Supplementary Note 12 12. The vehicle of claim 11, wherein the processor is configured to determine whether an environment outside the vehicle is nighttime, and to determine to adjust the transmittance of the first photochromic glass in response to determining that the environment outside the vehicle is nighttime.

[0063] Supplementary Note 13 13. The vehicle of claim 11 or 12, wherein the processor is configured to determine whether to adjust the transmittance of the first photochromic glass further based on at least one of vehicle position information, a current state of the vehicle, forecast information, a number of times the transmittance changes within a predetermined time period, or a detected angle of sunlight entering the interior of the vehicle.

[0064] Supplementary Note 14 A vehicle according to any one of Supplementary Notes 11 to 13, further comprising a second photochromic glass separate from the first photochromic glass.

[0065] Supplementary Note 15 15. The vehicle of any one of Supplementary Notes 11 to 14, wherein the processor is configured to determine whether to adjust the transmittance of the second photochromic glass based on data from the sensor, and the decision regarding the second photochromic glass is independent of the decision regarding the first photochromic glass.

[0066] Supplementary Note 16 A vehicle described in any one of Supplementary Notes 11 to 15, wherein the processor is configured to send a signal to the first photochromic glass to adjust the transmittance of the first photochromic glass by a first magnitude, and to send a second signal to the second photochromic glass to adjust the transmittance of the second photochromic glass by a second magnitude different from the first magnitude.

[0067] Supplementary Note 17 Supplementary Notes 11 to 16. A vehicle according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first light control glass is one of a windshield, a sunroof, a rear window, or a side window.

[0068] Supplementary Note 18 One aspect of this description relates to a method, the method including determining a state inside a vehicle based on sensor data from at least two different sensors. The method further includes determining whether to adjust a transmittance of a first photochromic glass based on the sensor data. The method further includes transmitting a signal to the first photochromic glass to change the transmittance of the first photochromic glass in response to determining to change the transmittance of the first photochromic glass.

[0069] Supplementary Note 19 19. The method of claim 18, wherein the step of transmitting a signal includes transmitting a signal from outside the vehicle.

[0070] Supplementary Note 20 19. The method of claim 18, wherein transmitting the signal comprises transmitting the signal from inside the vehicle.

[0071] The foregoing has outlined features of some embodiments so that those skilled in the art may better understand aspects of the present disclosure. Those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that this disclosure may be used as a basis for designing or modifying other processes and structures which carry out the same purposes and / or achieve the same advantages as the embodiments presented herein. Those skilled in the art will also appreciate that such equivalent structures do not depart from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure, and that various changes, substitutions, and alterations can be made thereto without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. A vehicle, a first light-control glass; a first sensor configured to detect a first condition inside the vehicle; a processor connected to the first light control glass and the first sensor, A step of determining whether to adjust the transmittance of the first photochromic glass based on at least the first state and additional data, wherein the additional data relates to at least one of an interior state of the vehicle other than the first state or information related to the first photochromic glass; In response to a decision to change the transmittance of the first light-controlling glass, sending a signal to the first light-controlling glass to change the transmittance of the first light-controlling glass; a processor configured to perform the A vehicle equipped with the above.

2. The vehicle of claim 1 , wherein the sensor is configured to detect an amount of sunlight entering an interior of the vehicle.

3. 3. The vehicle of claim 1 or 2, wherein the sensor is configured to detect a temperature inside the vehicle.

4. 3. The vehicle of claim 1, wherein the processor is configured to determine whether to adjust the transmittance of the first light control glass further based on at least one of vehicle position information, a current state of the vehicle, prediction information, a number of times the transmittance changes within a predetermined time period, or a detected angle of sunlight entering an interior of the vehicle.

5. The vehicle according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a second photochromic glass separate from the first photochromic glass.

6. 6. The vehicle of claim 5, wherein a processor is configured to determine whether to adjust the transmittance of the second photochromic glass based on data from the sensor, the determination regarding the second photochromic glass being independent of the determination regarding the first photochromic glass.

7. 6. The vehicle of claim 5, wherein the processor is configured to send a signal to the first photochromic glass to adjust the transmittance of the first photochromic glass by a first magnitude, and to send a second signal to the second photochromic glass to adjust the transmittance of the second photochromic glass by a second magnitude different from the first magnitude.

8. 3. The vehicle of claim 1, wherein the first photochromic glass is one of a windshield, a sunroof, a rear window, or a side window.

9. The vehicle according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the initial transmittance of the first photochromic glass is the maximum transmittance of the first photochromic glass.

10. The vehicle of claim 1 or 2, wherein the processor is further configured to prohibit or limit adjustment of the transmittance of the first photochromic glass based on a current state of the vehicle.

11. A vehicle, a first light-control glass; a sensor configured to detect an amount of light within a passenger compartment of the vehicle; a processor connected to the first light control glass and the sensor, determining an amount of light within the interior of the vehicle; determining whether to adjust the transmittance of the first light control glass based on the amount of light and at least one additional condition in the interior of the vehicle; a processor configured to, in response to a determination to change the transmittance of the first light-controlling glass, send a signal to the first light-controlling glass to change the transmittance of the first light-controlling glass; A vehicle equipped with the above.

12. 12. The vehicle of claim 11, wherein the processor is configured to determine whether an environment outside the vehicle is nighttime, and to determine to adjust the transmittance of the first photochromic glass in response to determining that the environment outside the vehicle is nighttime.

13. 13. The vehicle of claim 11 or 12, wherein the processor is configured to determine whether to adjust the transmittance of the first light control glass further based on at least one of vehicle position information, a current state of the vehicle, forecast information, a number of times transmittance changes within a predetermined time period, or a detected angle of sunlight entering an interior of the vehicle.

14. The vehicle according to claim 11 or 12, further comprising a second photochromic glass separate from the first photochromic glass.

15. 15. The vehicle of claim 14, wherein the processor is configured to determine whether to adjust the transmittance of the second photochromic glass based on data from the sensor, the determination regarding the second photochromic glass being independent of the determination regarding the first photochromic glass.

16. 15. The vehicle of claim 14, wherein the processor is configured to send a signal to the first photochromic glass to adjust the transmittance of the first photochromic glass by a first magnitude and to send a second signal to the second photochromic glass to adjust the transmittance of the second photochromic glass by a second magnitude different from the first magnitude.

17. 13. The vehicle of claim 11 or 12, wherein the first photochromic glass is one of a windshield, a sunroof, a rear window, or a side window.

18. 1. A processor-implemented method comprising: determining a state inside the vehicle based on sensor data from at least two different sensors; determining whether to adjust the transmittance of the first light control glass based on the sensor data; In response to a decision to change the transmittance of the first light-controlling glass, sending a signal to the first light-controlling glass to change the transmittance of the first light-controlling glass; A method comprising:

19. 20. The method of claim 18, wherein the step of transmitting the signal includes transmitting the signal from outside the vehicle.

20. 20. The method of claim 18, wherein the step of transmitting the signal includes transmitting the signal from inside the vehicle.

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