Multilayer panes with electrically controllable optical properties

Abstract

The present invention relates to a laminated pane (100) having electrically controllable optical properties, which comprises the following: an outer pane (1), a thermoplastic intermediate layer (3), an inner pane (2), and a functional element (4) disposed between the outer pane (1) and the inner pane (2) and having electrically controllable optical properties, wherein the functional element (4) comprises the following: - an active layer (5) having a first surface (A), a second surface (B), and a peripheral side surface (S), - a first planar electrode (6.1) extending across the first surface (A) within a first region (5.1) of the active layer (5), - a second planar electrode (6.2) extending across the first surface (A) within a second region (5.2) of the active layer (5), - a third planar electrode (6.3) extending across the second surface (B) at least within the first region (5.1) and the second region (5.2) of the active layer (5), and - an electric bridge (7) electrically conductingly connecting the first planar electrode (6.1) to the third planar electrode (6.3), wherein the first planar electrode (6.1) has a first protruding region (U’) with respect to the active layer (5), the second planar electrode (6.2) has a second protruding region (U’’) with respect to the active layer (5), a first bus bar (8.1) is disposed at least on the first protruding region (U’), a second bus bar (8.2) is disposed at least on the second protruding region (U’’), and the first planar electrode (6.1) and the second planar electrode (6.2) are electrically insulated from each other.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to a laminated pane having functional elements, a method for producing the same, the use of such a laminated pane, and a glazing unit having the laminated pane.

BACKGROUND ART

[0002] In the automotive and building fields, laminated panes having electrically controllable functional elements are often used for solar protection or privacy protection. For example, a windshield is known in which a sun visor is incorporated in the form of a functional element having electrically controllable optical properties. In particular, the transmittance or scattering behavior of electromagnetic radiation within the visible light range is electrically controllable. The functional elements are generally in the form of films and are laminated within the laminated pane or adhered onto the laminated pane. In the case of a windshield, the driver can, for example, control the transmission behavior of the pane itself with respect to solar radiation. In this way, a conventional mechanical sun visor can be dispensed with. In this way, the weight of the vehicle can be reduced and space can be gained within the roof area. Furthermore, the electrical control of the sun visor is relatively more convenient for the driver than the manual folding of a mechanical sun visor.

[0003] Such windshields having an electrically controllable sun visor are known, for example, from German Patent Application Publication No. 102013001334, German Patent Invention No. 102005049081, German Patent Application Publication No. 102005007427, and German Patent Application Publication No. 102007027296.

[0004] Typical electrically controllable functional elements include electrochromic layer structures or single-particle device (SPD) films. A further possible functional element for achieving electrically controllable solar radiation protection is the so-called PDLC (polymer-dispersed liquid crystal) functional element. Their active layer contains liquid crystal embedded in a polymer matrix. When no voltage is applied, the liquid crystal is oriented in a disordered manner, which as a result strongly scatters light passing through the active layer. When a voltage is applied to a planar electrode, the liquid crystal is oriented in a common direction, and the transmittance of light passing through the active layer increases. PDLC functional elements work by increasing scattering rather than reducing total transmittance, thereby ensuring glare prevention. PDLC functional elements are known, for example, from U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 20150301367.

[0005] Problems in laminated functional elements stem from gas intrusion and diffusion of plasticizers or other harmful compounds into the functional element. These substances often penetrate through inadequately protected side surfaces of the functional element, frequently leading to undesirable aging degradation phenomena, such as brightening and changes in shading. These problems are particularly common with PDLC functional elements.

[0006] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2008-225399 discloses a liquid crystal display element on a flexible substrate, for example, on a plastic film, wherein the side surface has a gas barrier layer, which prevents gas intrusion through the side surface of the substrate. International Publication Nos. 2019077014 and International Publication Nos. 2018188844 disclose a laminated pane having a functional element, wherein the functional element is protected from penetration by plasticizers from a thermoplastic intermediate layer by multiple barrier layers on the side surface. [Overview of the Initiative] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0007] Therefore, the present invention aims to provide an improved functional element that has electrically controllable optical properties and good resistance to aging degradation, and can be manufactured cost-effectively. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] The object of the present invention is achieved by the laminated pane according to independent claim 1. Preferred embodiments are evident from the dependent claims.

[0009] The laminated pane according to the present invention comprises an outer pane, a thermoplastic intermediate layer, an inner pane, and a functional element, which is located between the outer pane and the inner pane and has electrically controllable optical properties. The functional element includes: an active layer having a first surface, a second surface, and a peripheral surface; a first planar electrode; a second planar electrode; a third planar electrode; and an electrical bridge electrically conductively connecting the first planar electrode to the third planar electrode. The thermoplastic intermediate layer is located between the outer pane and the inner pane.

[0010] The active layer and planar electrodes are in the form of films and form stacked rows. The films typically have a large surface area but a small overall thickness. Hereinafter, the large surfaces of the stacked rows that demarcate the rows are referred to as the upper and lower surfaces, and the surfaces perpendicular to them and having a small width (corresponding to the direction of the overall small thickness) are referred to as the side surfaces. The first and second surfaces of the active layer are arranged parallel to the lower and upper surfaces of the stacked rows. The term "side surface of the active layer" refers only to the side surface of the active layer, whereas the term "side surface of the functional element" is understood to mean the side surface of the entire stacked row. The term "side surface" is understood to mean the side surface of the active layer.

[0011] The first planar electrode extends across the first surface of the active layer within a first region of the active layer. The second planar electrode extends across the first surface of the active layer within a second region of the active layer. The third planar electrode extends across at least the second surface of the active layer within both the first and second regions of the active layer. Preferably, the third planar electrode extends across the entire second surface of the active layer. The electrical bridge electrically connects the first planar electrode to the third planar electrode. Preferably, the surface areas of the first and second regions of the active layer constitute the total surface area of ​​the active layer, thereby allowing the first and second planar electrodes to extend across the entire first surface of the active layer, excluding the barrier region (insulating region), such as a barrier wire (insulating wire), located between the first and second planar electrodes.

[0012] The active layer preferably has a first segment within at least a first region and a second segment within at least a second region. In other words, the active layer is preferably divided into a first segment within at least a first region and a second segment within at least a second region. Thus, the first segment of the active layer is positioned substantially coincidentally with the first planar electrode, and the second segment of the active layer is positioned substantially coincidentally with the second planar electrode. Dividing the active layer into segments improves the appearance of the functional elements. If the active layer is not divided into individual segments, unsightly visual anomalies may occur between regions. For example, when the optical properties of the second region change, a gradual visual change may occur within the first region of the active layer. Dividing the active layer into at least a first segment and a second segment is preferably achieved by laser irradiation.

[0013] The first planar electrode has a first protruding region relative to the active layer, and the second planar electrode has a second protruding region relative to the active layer. The first busbar is positioned on at least the first protruding region, and the second busbar is positioned on at least the second protruding region. The first and second planar electrodes are electrically isolated from each other. In other words, the first planar electrode protrudes beyond the active layer within a first portion of its peripheral surface, and the second planar electrode protrudes beyond the active layer within a second portion of its peripheral surface. The first busbar is positioned on at least the protruding region of the first planar electrode, and the second busbar is positioned on at least the protruding region of the second planar electrode. The first and second planar electrodes are positioned electrically isolated from each other. Preferably, the first planar electrode is separated from the second planar electrode by a barrier wire, which is introduced, for example, by laser ablation.

[0014] In the sense of the present invention, “peripheral surface of the active layer” is understood to mean the outer peripheral surface that extends perpendicularly to the first and second surfaces of the active layer. The first and second surfaces of the active layer are the main surfaces of the active layer, and they are arranged substantially parallel to the main surfaces of the outer and inner panes of the laminated pane. Therefore, the peripheral surface of the active layer includes the peripheral surfaces of any individual segment of the active layer, excluding the portions of the peripheral surfaces of segments that do not extend along the ends of functional elements. In the sense of the present invention, this means that all portions of the peripheral surface of the first segment that face the peripheral surface of the second segment (or any further segment in which an active layer may exist) are not part of the peripheral surface of the active layer. Conversely, this also applies to all portions of the peripheral surface of the second segment that face the peripheral surface of the first segment (or any further segment in which an active layer may exist).

[0015] When the active layer is divided into segments, the term “first surface of the active layer” is understood to mean the first surface of the first segment, the first surface of the second segment, and the first surface of any further segments of the active layer. In the sense of this invention, the term “second surface of the active layer” is understood to mean the second surface of the first segment, the second surface of the second segment, and the second surface of any further segments of the active layer. The first surfaces of individual segments are arranged adjacent to one another so that, in the plan view of the stacked panes, the first surfaces of individual segments are offset vertically from one another but not horizontally. This means that if the first surface of the first segment faces the outer pane, then the first surface of the second segment also necessarily faces the outer pane. This also applies, conversely, to the second surface of the first segment and the second surface of the second segment. Thus, in this case, the first surface of the active layer is derived from the first surface of the first segment, the first surface of the second segment, and the first surface of any further segments. Therefore, the second surface of the active layer is derived from the second surface of the first segment, the second surface of the second segment, and the second surface of any further segments.

[0016] The busbars are connected to the planar electrodes, thereby activating different optical states of the functional elements when the first and second busbars are in electrical contact with a voltage source. When a potential is applied to the first planar electrode, the potential is also applied to the third planar electrode via an electrical bridge. A counterpotential is applied to the second planar electrode via the second busbar, thereby causing a second region of the active layer, located between the second and third planar electrodes, to change its optical state in accordance with the voltage difference applied between the planar electrodes. Since the second and first planar electrodes are arranged electrically isolated from each other, no short circuit occurs.

[0017] A major advantage of the present invention is that the solution according to the present invention allows the plane electrode having a busbar to be placed on only one surface of the active layer, which provides design freedom in the fabrication of the laminated pane. Typically, a first busbar needs to be connected to a plane electrode on a first surface of the active layer, and a second busbar needs to be connected to a plane electrode on a second surface of the active layer, resulting in relatively large spatial requirements, which can be inconsistent with the desired properties of the laminated pane. Furthermore, the fabrication is significantly more complex because the functional element needs to be in contact with the busbar from two sides. In the solution according to the present invention, the first plane electrode extends across a first surface within a first region of the active layer, and the second plane electrode extends across the first surface within a second region of the active layer. The first plane electrode is connected to a first busbar within the region of the first plane electrode protruding from the active layer, and the second plane electrode is connected to a second busbar within the region of the second plane electrode protruding from the active layer. The first and second planar electrodes significantly prevent contaminants, such as plasticizers from the thermoplastic intermediate layer, from diffusing into the active layer via the first surface of the active layer. This arrangement allows for a reduction in the number of barrier layers required to prevent contaminant diffusion into the active layer. This can slow down the aging degradation of the functional element. This aging degradation is substantially caused by the penetration of harmful substances into the interior of the functional element through the unprotected surface of the active layer, altering the optical properties of the functional element in an undesirable manner. For example, aging degradation can cause the functional element to appear brighter or change its transmittance, starting with its side edges.

[0018] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, a first planar electrode, a second planar electrode, and any further planar electrodes applied to the first surface of the active layer protrude together along the entire peripheral surface of the active layer. This means that the planar electrodes protrude along the entire peripheral surface of the active layer, except for one or more isolation regions located between the planar electrodes. At least one isolation region between the first and second planar electrodes serves to electrically isolate the planar electrodes from each other. The isolation region is preferably linear (a blocking line). Because the planar electrodes protrude almost continuously along the peripheral surface of the active layer, the active layer is very effectively protected against the diffusion of contaminants. In this way, a relatively small barrier layer is required, which saves material costs and minimizes process load.

[0019] Preferably, the first and second protruding regions protrude together along the entire peripheral surface beyond the active layer.

[0020] Preferably, the first planar electrode and / or the second planar electrode protrude at least 1 mm, particularly preferably at least 5 mm, from the active layer. In other words, the first planar electrode and / or the second planar electrode and any further planar electrodes have a protrusion u of at least 1 mm, particularly preferably at least 5 mm, from the active layer. In the sense of the present invention, the protrusion is determined by the distance from the outer end of the planar electrode to the outer end of the active layer within the protruding region. The distance referred to herein is the distance perpendicular to the side surface of the active layer. If the protrusions are of varying sizes across the functional element, the arithmetic mean of the protrusions u is preferably at least 1 mm, particularly preferably at least 5 mm. From the protrusions of the dimensions referred to, busbars can be connected to the planar electrodes in a simplified process.

[0021] In a particularly preferred embodiment of the functional element, the active layer includes further regions, preferably at least one further region, particularly preferably at least three further regions, most preferably at least five further regions, and particularly at least eight further regions. Exactly one further planar electrode is applied to the first surface of each further region. Each region is electrically connected to exactly one planar electrode on the first surface, and each further planar electrode is electrically connected to exactly one region of the active layer. The third planar electrode extends across the second surface of all the further regions. Each further planar electrode protrudes beyond the active layer within a further portion of the peripheral surface of the active layer. Each further planar electrode is preferably electrically conductively connected to exactly one further busbar, and on the regions protruding from their active layer, the further planar electrodes are preferably electrically conductively connected to further busbars. The further planar electrodes, the first planar electrode, and the second planar electrode are arranged to be electrically isolated from each other; for example, they are separated from each other by one or more linear isolation regions (isolation lines). By bringing the second and further regions of the active layer into contact with different planar electrodes, each region of the active layer can be activated and switched independently of each other. In this configuration, the first planar electrode, the electric bridge, and the third planar electrode preferably function as anodes, while the second and further planar electrodes function as cathodes and may have different (cathode) electrical potentials. The voltage difference between the anode on one side and the cathode on the other side allows individual regions of the active layer to transition to different desired optical states. Particularly preferably, each region of the active layer is also an individual segment of the active layer, so that the first region is the first segment, the second region is the second segment, and each further region is a further segment.

[0022] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the first planar electrode, the second planar electrode, and any further planar electrodes are formed by laser irradiation (laser ablation). In other words, a continuous planar electrode that was not initially segmented is divided into a plurality of planar electrodes (at least the first and second planar electrodes) by laser irradiation. The third planar electrode is preferably not segmented by laser irradiation. Preferably, segments of the active layer, i.e., at least the first and second segments, are also generated by laser irradiation. In other words, an active layer that was not initially segmented, on which a continuous planar electrode is located on a first surface of the active layer, is divided into a plurality of segments (at least the first and second segments) and a plurality of planar electrodes (at least the first and second planar electrodes) by laser irradiation. The third planar electrode is not segmented by laser irradiation.

[0023] In alternative embodiments, the functional element already has an active layer for manufacturing reasons, and this element is divided into at least a first segment and a second segment, preferably further segments. The first and second planar electrodes, and any further planar electrodes, may also be applied separately to the active layer during manufacturing, thereby eliminating the need to subsequently introduce a blocking region.

[0024] If the active layer has further regions or segments, the third planar electrode also preferably extends completely across the second surface of the further region or within the region of the further segment. In particular, the third planar electrode extends across the entire second surface of the active layer. This ensures that the functional element can be used to its fullest extent and have good optical quality. Any region not covered by the third planar electrode may cause non-uniform optical properties within the affected region, which may be unpleasant to the user.

[0025] The laminated pane is designed, for example, as a windscreen or a roof pane intended to be part of a vehicle. Alternatively, it is designed, for example, as a glass partition, preferably a glass partition for a railway vehicle or a bus. Alternatively, the laminated pane can be architectural glazing, such as a glass partition on the outer facade of a building or inside a building.

[0026] The terms "outer pane" and "inner pane" optionally describe two different panes. In particular, the outer pane can be referred to as the "first pane" and the inner pane can be referred to as the "second pane".

[0027] When the laminated pane is provided within a window opening of a vehicle or a building to separate the interior from the external environment, the pane (second pane) facing the interior (inside the vehicle) is referred to as the "inner pane" in the sense of the present invention. The pane (first pane) facing the external environment is referred to as the "outer pane". However, the present invention is not limited thereto. The inner pane has an inner side surface facing away from the thermoplastic intermediate layer and an outer side surface facing the thermoplastic intermediate layer. The inner side surface of the inner pane is also the inner side surface of the laminated pane. The outer pane has an outer side surface facing away from the thermoplastic intermediate layer and an inner side surface facing the thermoplastic intermediate layer. The outer side surface of the outer pane is also the outer side surface of the laminated pane.

[0028] In an advantageous embodiment of the laminated pane according to the invention, the thermoplastic intermediate layer comprises a polymer, preferably a thermoplastic polymer.

[0029] In a particularly advantageous embodiment of the laminated pane according to the invention, the thermoplastic intermediate layer contains a plasticizer at least 3% by weight, preferably at least 5% by weight, particularly preferably at least 20% by weight, more preferably at least 30% by weight, especially at least 40% by weight. The plasticizer preferably contains or consists of triethylene glycol bis(2-ethylhexanoate).

[0030] Plasticizers are chemical compounds that make plastic materials relatively soft, relatively flexible, relatively smooth, and / or relatively elastic. They shift the thermoelastic range of plastic materials to relatively low temperatures, thereby allowing the plastic material to have the desired relatively elastic properties within its operating temperature range. More preferred plasticizers are carboxylic acid esters, particularly low-volatility carboxylic acid esters, fats, oils, soft resins, and camphor. Further plasticizers are preferably aliphatic diesters of triethylene glycol or tetraethylene glycol. Particularly preferred are 3G7, 3G8, or 4G7 as plasticizers, where the first number indicates the number of ethylene glycol units and the last number indicates the number of carbon atoms in the carboxylic acid portion of the compound. Thus, 3G8 refers to triethylene glycol bis(2-ethylhexanoate), i.e., the compound represented by the formula C4H9CH(CH2CH3)CO(OCH2CH2)3O2CCH(CH2CH3)C4H9.

[0031] In a further particularly advantageous embodiment of the laminated pane according to the present invention, the intermediate layer comprises at least 60% by weight, preferably at least 70% by weight, particularly preferably at least 90% by weight, and particularly preferably at least 97% by weight of polyvinyl butyral.

[0032] The thermoplastic interlayer may be formed by a single film or by multiple films. The thermoplastic interlayer may be formed by one or more thermoplastic films arranged in overlapping order, and the thickness of the thermoplastic interlayer after lamination of the layer stack is preferably 0.25 mm to 1 mm, typically 0.38 mm or 0.76 mm. If the thickness varies across the surface area of ​​the laminated pane, a given value relates to the thickness of the thickest part of the thermoplastic interlayer.

[0033] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the thermoplastic intermediate layer comprises at least a first thermoplastic laminated film and a second thermoplastic laminated film. A functional element is positioned between the first thermoplastic laminated film and the second thermoplastic laminated film. The first and second laminated films are preferably arranged overlapping each other in a planar manner and laminated together, where the functional element is inserted between the two laminated films. The region of the laminated film that overlaps with the functional element forms a region connecting the functional element to the outer pane and the inner pane, thereby fixing the functional element within the laminated pane. In other regions of the laminated pane, if the intermediate layers are in direct contact with each other, they may fuse together during lamination, thereby making the two original layers indistinguishable, and instead a homogeneous intermediate layer exists.

[0034] Particularly preferably, the thermoplastic intermediate layer also includes a third thermoplastic laminated film, which is positioned peripherally around the functional element. In other words, the functional element, more precisely its side surface, is peripherally surrounded by the third thermoplastic laminated film. The third laminated film is frame-shaped and has a notch into which the functional element is inserted. The third laminated film may be formed from a thermoplastic film into which the notch is introduced by cutting. Alternatively, the third laminated film may consist of multiple film portions around the functional element.

[0035] The thermoplastic intermediate layer is preferably formed from a total of at least three thermoplastic laminated films arranged in a planar manner, with the intermediate laminated film (third laminated film) having notches in which functional elements are arranged. During fabrication, the third laminated film is positioned between the first and second laminated films, where the side surfaces of all laminated films facing the external environment are preferably aligned. The third laminated film preferably has approximately the same thickness as the functional elements. This compensates for local thickness differences in the laminated panes, which are introduced by locally partitioned functional elements, thereby preventing glass breakage during lamination.

[0036] The side surfaces of the functional elements visible when viewed through the laminated pane are preferably flush with the third laminated film, so as to prevent any gaps between the side surfaces of the functional elements and the associated side surfaces of the third laminated film. In this way, the boundary between the third laminated film and the functional elements becomes visually relatively inconspicuous. Within the region in which the planar electrode protrudes relative to the active layer, the side surfaces of the functional elements refer to the side surfaces of the active layer, where it is understood that at least one barrier layer is preferably positioned between the side surfaces of the active layer and the third laminated film.

[0037] The thickness of each thermoplastic laminated film is preferably 0.1 mm to 2 mm, and particularly preferably 0.2 mm to 1 mm.

[0038] In a preferred embodiment of the laminated pane according to the present invention, regions of the first and / or second thermoplastic laminated film, through which a functional element is connected to the outer or inner pane, are colored or tinted. In other words, at least regions of the first and / or second thermoplastic laminated film that conform to and match the functional element when viewed through the laminated pane are colored or tinted. In this way, the transmittance of this region within the visible spectral range is reduced compared to the uncolored or untinted layer. Therefore, the colored / tinted region of the laminated film reduces the transmittance of the laminated pane within this region. This can be useful, for example, when the functional element is used as a sun visor. In particular, the aesthetic impression of the functional element is improved because the coloring results in a relatively neutral appearance, which is a relatively favorable impression to the observer.

[0039] The colored or tinted regions of the first and / or second thermoplastic laminate film preferably have a light transmittance of 10% to 50%, and particularly preferably 20% to 40%, within the visible spectral range (according to ISO 9050:2003). In this way, particularly good results are achieved with respect to glare prevention and visual appearance.

[0040] The thermoplastic intermediate layer may be formed from a single thermoplastic laminated film, in which colored or tinted regions are created by localized coloring or dyeing. Such a film may be obtained, for example, by co-extrusion. Alternatively, an uncolored film portion and a colored or tinted film portion may be combined to form a thermoplastic layer.

[0041] In advantageous embodiments, at least the region of the thermoplastic intermediate layer located between the functional element and the inner and / or outer panes, preferably only this region, is colored. This creates a particularly aesthetic impression when the inner and / or outer panes are viewed from above.

[0042] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, at least a portion of the peripheral surface of the active layer is sealed with at least one barrier layer. Preferably, the entire peripheral surface of the active layer is sealed with one or more barrier layers. Furthermore, a region of the second surface of the active layer, preferably without a third planar electrode, may also be sealed with one or more barrier layers. The barrier layers may partially overlap with the end region of the third planar electrode, for example, where this is suitable for the purpose on the article. This results in particularly reliable sealing of the active layer of the functional element and particularly excellent resistance to aging of the functional element.

[0043] For simplicity, the term "barrier layer" will generally be used below, but unless explicitly or implicitly excluded, this can mean multiple barrier layers in the sense of this invention.

[0044] In the sense of the present invention, "sealing" means that the corresponding portion of the surface is completely covered by a barrier layer as a protective layer, thereby providing relatively high resistance and durability, particularly against the diffusion of harmful substances such as moisture, and particularly against plasticizers from the environment, otherwise these could penetrate into the interior of the active layer.

[0045] Preferably, the barrier layer is in direct and adjacent contact with the active layer. For example, there is no other adhesive or intermediate layer between the barrier layer and the active layer of the functional element.

[0046] In an advantageous embodiment of the present invention, the barrier layer is designed to prevent the plasticizer from diffusing from the thermoplastic intermediate layer through the barrier layer.

[0047] The barrier layer is preferably designed to prevent the diffusion of plasticizer through the barrier layer to an extent equal to or greater than the diffusion of plasticizer through the planar electrode.

[0048] The barrier layer is preferably a single layer or a multilayer, for example, two, three, four, or five layers. Each individual layer of the barrier layer is also referred to as a single layer below and may consist of the same material or different materials.

[0049] One or more single layers of the multilayer barrier layer preferably include a transparent material. In the sense of the present invention, the term "transparent" refers to a barrier layer having a light transmittance of more than 50%, preferably more than 70%, and particularly more than 90% (according to ISO 9050:2003) in the visible spectral range. However, in the case of panes or pane portions that are not within the driver's relevant field of view, such as the roof pane or the upper area of ​​the windshield, or where a particular darkness is desired, the transmittance may be considerably lower, for example, more than 5%. In particular, the barrier layer may be colored or tinted.

[0050] In an advantageous embodiment of the present invention, one or more monolayers are based on a metal oxide, a metal nitride, or a metal oxynitride, where the metal is preferably silicon (Si), aluminum (Al), tantalum (T(a)), vanadium (V), or a mixture thereof.

[0051] Layers containing metal oxides, metal nitrides, or metal oxynitrides may be further doped with, for example, antimony, fluorine, silver, ruthenium, palladium, aluminum, and tantalum.

[0052] In the context of the present invention, the term "based on" with respect to the composition of the barrier layer means that the material consists essentially of a metal oxide, a metal nitride, or a metal oxynitride, preferably containing at least 80% by weight thereof, particularly preferably at least 90% by weight thereof, and especially at least 95% by weight thereof. In the case of a metal oxide, a metal nitride, or a metal oxynitride, particularly in the case of those produced by a chemical vapor deposition method such as a plasma enhanced vapor deposition method, the term "based on" includes that, in addition to the metal oxide, the metal nitride, or the metal oxynitride, trace amounts of residues of the process gas, such as carbon and hydrogen as organic residues of organometallic compounds, may also be contained.

[0053] Particularly preferred single layers are based on silicon oxide, based on silicon nitride, or based on silicon oxynitride. In the case of a single layer based on silicon oxide, the silicon oxide SiOx is preferably stoichiometric, particularly preferably 1 < x < 2, or stoichiometric (x = 2). However, it can be superstoichiometric.

[0054] In an advantageous embodiment of the barrier layer, the barrier layer comprises or consists of at least one organic silicon single layer of the SiOxCy:H type, where x is preferably from 0.1 to 3, particularly preferably from 0.2 to 2, y is preferably greater than 0.3, particularly preferably from 0.3 to 3, and especially from 0.9 to 2.

[0055] The hydrogen content of the organosilicon compound depends on the degree of polymerization and the chemical nature of the deposition process. The ratio of carbon to hydrogen (CuHv) can be arbitrary, preferably from 1:1000 to 1000:1, particularly preferably from 1:10 to 10:1.

[0056] In an alternative barrier layer, at least one single layer contains or consists of organosilicon, where the CyHz content of the organosilicon coating is from 20% to 80% by weight, preferably from 30% to 70% by weight. Such an organosilicon coating is preferably highly crosslinked and has a polymeric nature.

[0057] Further preferred monolayers contain or consist of amorphous carbon hydride (α-C:H), preferably nitrogen-doped amorphous carbon hydride (α-C:N:H), or nitrogen and silicon-doped amorphous carbon hydride (α-C:N:Si:H). These are preferably produced by a CVD method using acetylene (C2H2) or an acetylene-containing process gas.

[0058] Further preferred monolayers include other transparent ceramic layers and / or polymer layers, which may be produced by vapor deposition and reduce or substantially prevent the diffusion of plasticizers, such as parylene, polyvinylidene chloride (PVDC), ethylene-vinyl alcohol copolymer (EVOP), or polyacrylate.

[0059] In a particularly advantageous embodiment, the barrier layer comprises at least two, preferably exactly two, exactly three, exactly four, or exactly five, monolayers of the same material arranged to overlap each other. This is particularly advantageous for the thin monolayers used herein, because any defects present in any of the monolayers are compensated for by one or more further monolayers.

[0060] In a particularly advantageous embodiment, the barrier layer comprises exactly one or at least one pair of layers, which are also called a double layer or dyad. The double layer preferably consists of a first monolayer having polymeric properties and a second monolayer having ceramic or inorganic properties. The first monolayer is preferably located on the side of the double layer facing the functional element. The first monolayer of the double layer is particularly preferably located directly on the active layer, i.e., on the second surface and / or the peripheral surface.

[0061] In advantageous embodiments, one or more adhesion-promoting layers may be placed between the functional element and the barrier layer. In particular, the peripheral surface of the active layer of the functional element needs to be subjected to an adhesion-promoting surface treatment. Therefore, the stacked rows may be exposed to argon (Ar) plasma, nitrogen (N2) plasma, or oxygen (O2) plasma for surface treatment.

[0062] In a favorable embodiment, the entire barrier layer, including one or more monolayers, has a thickness d (also called material thickness) of 10 nm to 5000 nm (nanometers), preferably 15 nm to 1000 nm, and particularly preferably 15 nm to 500 nm. The layer thickness d refers to a measured thickness of multiple layers applied to a substrate and arranged to overlap each other as individual layers or rows of layers. It is measured as the thickness in the perpendicular direction from the surface of the substrate (in this case, the peripheral surface or second surface of the active layer) to the surface of the applied layer or row of layers.

[0063] The barrier layer can be generated by any suitable deposition process. Vapor deposition processes are particularly suitable, as they allow for the controlled generation of barrier layers, especially thin ones with a thickness d.

[0064] The following deposition processes are particularly suitable for creating barrier layers: • Physical vapor deposition (PVD), particularly preferably vapor deposition, such as thermal deposition, electron beam deposition, laser deposition, ion-assisted deposition (IAD), or arc deposition; • Cathode sputtering, e.g., magnetron sputtering; atomic layer deposition, e.g., plasma-enhanced atomic layer deposition (PEALD). Chemical vapor deposition (CVD), particularly preferably plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD), low-pressure PECVD (LPCVD), and low-temperature low-pressure PECVD.

[0065] Regarding functional elements having polymer carrier films and temperature-sensitive active layers, the aforementioned plasma enhancement processes, such as PECVD and PEALD, are particularly suitable because they enable deposition at low substrate temperatures.

[0066] Further barrier layers, also known as barrier films, are generally known to those skilled in the art. They can be designed, for example, as disclosed in International Publication No. 2018 / 188844 or International Publication No. 2019 / 077014.

[0067] The controllable functional element has an active layer between planar electrodes and is designed like a film. The active layer has controllable optical properties, which can be controlled by the voltage applied to the planar electrodes.

[0068] At least a first busbar, at least a second busbar, and any further busbars are provided to be electrically connected to an external voltage source in a manner known to itself. The electrical contact is achieved by a suitable connecting cable, such as a foil conductor.

[0069] Planar electrodes, i.e., at least the first, second, and third planar electrodes, are preferably designed as transparent electrically conductive layers. The planar electrodes preferably contain at least one metal, one metal alloy, or one transparent conductive oxide (TCO). The planar electrodes may include, for example, silver, gold, copper, nickel, chromium, tungsten, indium tin oxide (ITO), gallium-doped or aluminum-doped zinc oxide, and / or fluorine-doped or antimond-doped tin oxide. The planar electrodes preferably have a thickness of 10 nm to 2 μm, particularly preferably 20 nm to 1 μm, and most preferably 30 nm to 500 nm.

[0070] In addition to the active layer and planar electrodes, the functional elements may have other known layers, such as barrier layers, blocking layers, anti-reflective layers, protective layers, and / or smoothing layers.

[0071] The planar electrodes are preferably applied on a carrier film. In such embodiments of the functional element, the planar electrodes and the active layer are arranged between the carrier films. In this way, the carrier films form the surface of the functional element. Thus, the functional element may be provided as a laminated film, which can be advantageously processed. The functional element is advantageously protected by the carrier film from damage, particularly corrosion. The functional element comprises, in a given order, at least the following: • First carrier film, • First planar electrode and second planar electrode, · Active layer, • Third planar electrode, and, • Second carrier film, Includes.

[0072] The first and second planar electrodes, and any further planar electrodes, are preferably applied to exactly one continuous carrier film, i.e., positioned between the carrier film and the active layer. In this way, the carrier film holds the planar electrodes and provides the mechanical stability required for the liquid or flexible active layer.

[0073] The first planar electrode, second planar electrode, third planar electrode, and / or any further planar electrodes may be designed as electrically conductive foil, preferably metallic foil, particularly copper or silver foil. Alternatively, the planar electrodes may be applied to a carrier film, for example, the planar electrodes may be a coating on the carrier film.

[0074] The barrier lines between planar electrodes, between carrier films, and / or between segments of the active layer have widths of, for example, 5 μm to 500 μm, and particularly 20 μm to 200 μm. The width of the segments, i.e., the distance between adjacent barrier lines, can be appropriately selected by those skilled in the art according to the requirements of the individual case.

[0075] Barrier lines can be introduced during the generation of functional elements by laser ablation, mechanical cutting, or etching. Already stacked functional elements may be segmented by laser ablation.

[0076] In alternative embodiments, the first planar electrode is preferably placed on a first carrier film, the second planar electrode is preferably placed on a second carrier film, and the third planar electrode is preferably placed on a third carrier film. Any further planar electrodes are each placed on a further carrier film. The carrier films preferably have a surface area at least equivalent to that of the planar electrodes to which they are applied, but may have a relatively large surface area. The first and second carrier films and any further planar electrodes are preferably separated from each other by a barrier region, and particularly preferably by a barrier line.

[0077] The carrier film preferably comprises at least one thermoplastic polymer, particularly polyethylene terephthalate (PET) with little or no plasticizer. This is particularly advantageous with respect to the stability of the functional elements. However, the carrier film may also comprise, or consist of, other polymers with little or no plasticizer, such as ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), polypropylene, polycarbonate, polymethyl methacrylate, polyacrylate, polyvinyl chloride, polyacetate resin, casting resin, acrylate, fluorinated ethylene propylene, polyvinyl fluoride, and / or ethylene tetrafluoroethylene. The thickness of each carrier film is preferably 0.02 mm to 1 mm, particularly preferably 0.04 mm to 0.2 mm. The carrier film provides particularly effective protection against the diffusion of plasticizers into the active layer.

[0078] The functional element is preferably a PDLC (polymer-dispersed liquid crystal) functional element. The active layer of the PDLC functional element contains liquid crystal embedded in a polymer matrix. When no voltage is applied to the planar electrode, the liquid crystal is oriented in a disordered manner, resulting in strong scattering of light passing through the active layer. When a voltage is applied to the planar electrode, the liquid crystal within a second region of the active layer and any further regions of the active layer are oriented in a common direction, increasing the transmittance of light passing through the active layer. Alternatively, a functional element that is transparent when no voltage is applied (zero volts) and strongly scatters when a voltage is applied, particularly a PDLC functional element, may be used.

[0079] In principle, other types of controllable functional elements, such as electrochromic functional elements or SPD functional elements (suspended particle devices), may be used. The controllable functional elements mentioned and their operation are known to those skilled in the art, so no detailed explanation is necessary here. PDLC functional elements are particularly preferred because, especially with PDLC elements, it is necessary to ensure effective protection from plasticizers so as not to impair the optical quality of the functional element.

[0080] The second region of the active layer can have its optical state altered by applying voltage to the first and second busbars. The first region of the active layer is not intended to alter its optical state and is therefore preferably as small as possible. The first region is preferably 10 cm². 2 The following is particularly preferable: 2 cm 2 The following, especially 1cm 2 The following surface areas are provided. All further regions of the active layer are preferably designed so that their optical state can be altered by applying a voltage to the connected busbars.

[0081] The second region of the active layer is larger in area than the first region of the active layer, preferably at least 5 times larger, particularly preferably at least 10 times larger, and even more preferably at least 100 times larger.

[0082] Functional elements are available as commercially available products. Typically, functional elements are cut from relatively large multilayer films to the desired shape and size. This can be done mechanically, for example, using a blade. In advantageous embodiments, cutting is performed using a laser. In this case, the stability of the side surface has been confirmed to be higher than in the case of mechanical cutting. In the case of mechanically cut side surfaces, there is a risk of material shrinkage, which is, so to speak, visually noticeable and negatively affects the aesthetics of the pane.

[0083] In the context of this invention, electrically controllable optical properties mean properties that can be continuously controlled, but are also understood to mean properties that can be switched between two or more discrete states.

[0084] The electrical control of the functional elements of the pane according to the present invention, installed in a vehicle, is performed, for example, by switches, rotary knobs, or sliders incorporated into the vehicle's machinery. However, buttons for controlling the functional elements, such as capacitive buttons, may be incorporated into the laminated pane. Alternatively or additionally, the functional elements may be controlled by a non-contact method, such as by recognizing gestures, or in accordance with the state of the pupil or eyelids determined by a camera and appropriate evaluation electronic equipment. Alternatively or additionally, the functional elements may be controlled by sensors that detect the incidence of light onto the pane.

[0085] In an advantageous embodiment of the present invention, the busbar is applied by soldering or adhesive to a protruding region of either the first planar electrode or the second planar electrode and any further planar electrodes. The busbar thus applied is preferably designed as a wire or strip of electrically conductive foil. In this case, the busbar includes, for example, at least aluminum, copper, tinned copper, gold, silver, zinc, tungsten, and / or tin, or alloys thereof. The strip preferably has a thickness of 10 μm to 500 μm, particularly preferably 30 μm to 300 μm. Busbars made of electrically conductive foil having these thicknesses are technically easy to realize and have advantageous current capacity. The strip may be electrically conductively connected to the electrically conductive structure, for example, via a solder compound, via an electrically conductive adhesive, or by direct placement.

[0086] Alternatively, the first busbar and / or the second busbar and / or any further busbars are designed as printed and baked conductive structures. The printed busbars preferably contain at least one metal, metal alloy, metal compound, and / or carbon, particularly preferably a noble metal, especially silver. The printing paste preferably contains metallic particles, metallic particles, and / or carbon, particularly noble metal particles, such as silver particles. Electrical conductivity is preferably achieved by electrically conductive particles. The particles may be present in an organic and / or inorganic matrix, such as a paste or ink, preferably in a printing paste containing glass frit.

[0087] The thickness of the printed busbar layer is preferably 5 μm to 40 μm, particularly preferably 8 μm to 20 μm, and most preferably 8 μm to 12 μm. Printed busbars having these thicknesses are technically easy to realize and have advantageous current capacity.

[0088] The resistivity ρ of the first busbar and / or the second busbar and / or any further busbars aThe resistivity is preferably 0.8 μΩ·cm to 7.0 μΩ·cm, and particularly preferably 1.0 μΩ·cm to 2.5 μΩ·cm. Busbars having resistivity within this range are technically easy to realize and have advantageous current capacity.

[0089] The first busbar, the second busbar, and / or any further busbars are preferably applied to the surface of a particular planar electrode facing the active layer of the functional element. This arrangement is relatively simple because the planar electrode is preferably positioned between the active layer and the carrier film, and therefore it may be difficult to connect it to the busbars via the surface of the planar electrode facing away from the active layer. In principle, the first busbar, the second busbar, and / or any further busbars can be applied to the surface of a particular planar electrode on the side facing away from the active layer. For this purpose, the carrier film may have, if present, for example, notches through which the busbars and planar electrodes can be connected to each other.

[0090] The first and second busbars are preferably positioned within the opposing end regions of the functional element, or alternatively, at right angles to each other, i.e., substantially 90° apart. Any further busbars are preferably positioned similarly to the second busbars relative to the first busbars. When the laminated panes are used as vehicle panes within a vehicle, the busbars are preferably positioned such that they are hidden by the cover printing of the vehicle panes.

[0091] In an advantageous embodiment of the present invention, the electrical bridge is designed as a metal foil or metal wire. The electrically conductive bridge may be applied by an adhesive layer to a portion of the peripheral surface of the first planar electrode, the third planar electrode, and the active layer. The electrically conductive bridge includes, for example, at least aluminum, copper, tinned copper, gold, silver, zinc, tungsten, and / or tin, or alloys thereof. The bridge has a thickness of preferably 5 μm to 400 μm, particularly preferably 40 μm to 250 μm. Electrically conductive bridges of these thicknesses are technically easy to realize and have advantageous current capacity. The electrically conductive bridge may be electrically connected to the electrically conductive structure (first and third planar electrodes) by means of conduction, for example, via a solder compound, via an electrically conductive adhesive, or by direct placement. The electrically conductive bridge may be introduced into the functional element after the planar electrodes have been connected to the active layer.

[0092] Alternatively, the electrically conductive bridge is designed as an electrically conductive paste. The electrically conductive bridge may be placed, for example, in through holes in a first region of the active layer, for example, in perforated notches in the active layer, thereby enabling a direct electrical connection between the first and third planar electrodes. The printing paste preferably contains at least one metal, metal alloy, metal compound, and / or carbon, particularly preferably a noble metal, particularly silver. Electrical conductivity is alternatively achieved by electrically conductive particles. The particles may be present in an organic and / or inorganic matrix, for example in a paste or ink, and preferably in a printing paste containing glass frit. The diameter of the printing paste is preferably at least 5 μm, particularly preferably at least 20 μm, and most particularly preferably at least 50 μm. In this arrangement, the electrically conductive bridge is completely surrounded by the active layer and the planar electrodes, thus adequately protected from external influences.

[0093] Resistivity ρ of a conductive bridge a The resistance is preferably 0.8 μΩ·cm to 7.0 μΩ·cm, and particularly preferably 1.0 μΩ·cm to 2.5 μΩ·cm.

[0094] Depending on the material of the electrically conductive bridge, it may be advantageous to protect the electrically conductive bridge with a protective layer, such as a coating or polymer film.

[0095] The first busbar is electrically conductively connected to the first planar electrode by an electrically conductive material, preferably containing silver; particularly preferably, the material is designed based on silver. The second busbar is electrically conductively connected to the second planar electrode by an electrically conductive material, preferably based on silver. It is also understood that any further busbars may be connected to further planar electrodes, preferably by an electrically conductive material, more preferably based on silver. The electrically conductive material is applied at least between the busbars and the protruding regions of the planar electrodes to which the busbars are connected, and preferably only between these. This arrangement can be produced quickly and easily, and the silver-containing material is characterized by high electrical conductivity and relatively long-term stability.

[0096] When an object is formed "based on" a material, it consists primarily of this material, and more specifically substantially of this material, in addition to any impurities or dopings. Unless otherwise specified, the thickness or specification of a layer refers to the geometric thickness of the layer.

[0097] A laminated pane with electrically controllable functional elements can, advantageously, be designed as a windshield with electrically controllable sun visor functional elements. Such a windshield has an upper end and a lower end, as well as two side ends extending between the upper and lower ends. The upper end refers to the end intended to face upward in the installation position. The lower end refers to the end intended to face downward in the installation position. The upper end is often also referred to as the roof edge, and the lower end is often referred to as the engine edge.

[0098] The windshield has a central field of view, and high requirements are placed on its optical quality. The central field of view must have a high light transmittance (according to ISO 9050:2003) (typically greater than 70%). This central field of view is the field of view referred to by those skilled in the art as field of view B, line of sight area B, or zone B. Field of view B and its technical requirements are defined in UN Economic Commission for Europe (UN / ECE) Regulation No. 43 (ECE-R43, "Uniform Regulation relating to the Approval and Installation of Safety Glazing Materials on Vehicles"). Field of view B is defined in Annex 18 of the same regulation.

[0099] The functional element is advantageously positioned above the central field of view (field of view B). This means that the functional element is located within the area between the central field of view and the upper edge of the windshield. The functional element does not need to cover the entire area, but is entirely contained within this area and does not protrude into the central field of view. In other words, the functional element is at a relatively small distance from the upper edge of the windshield than from the central line of sight area. In this way, the transparency of the central field of view is not impaired by the functional element, which is positioned similarly to a conventional mechanical sun visor in a folded state.

[0100] The functional elements are preferably positioned across the entire width of the laminated pane or windshield, except for end regions with a width of, for example, 2 mm to 20 mm, on both ends. The functional elements are also preferably located at a distance of, for example, 2 mm to 20 mm from the upper end. In this way, the functional elements are enclosed within the laminated pane and protected from contact with the ambient air and corrosion.

[0101] The upper edges and adjacent side surfaces or all side surfaces of the functional elements are preferably concealed by an opaque cover print or outer frame when viewed through the laminated pane. Windshields and vehicle roof panes typically have an all-around periphery cover print made of opaque enamel, which serves to protect the adhesive used for windshield installation from UV radiation and to visually conceal it. This periphery cover print is preferably used to conceal the upper edges and side surfaces of the functional elements as well as any necessary electrical connections, such as busbars. In this case, the functional elements are advantageously integrated within the appearance of the laminated pane, with only the lower edges potentially visible to the observer. Preferably, both the outer and inner panes have cover prints, thereby blocking the line of sight through them from both sides.

[0102] Functional elements may have notches or holes, for example, within the area of ​​a laminated pane, particularly a windshield, such as a so-called sensor window or camera window. These areas are intended to house sensors or cameras, and their function may be obstructed by controllable functional elements present in the optical path, such as a rain sensor. A window without functional elements can be realized by at least two separate functional elements, where distance exists between the functional elements, providing space for a sensor window or camera window.

[0103] The outer and inner panes are preferably made of glass, particularly preferably soda-lime glass, as is commonly used for window panes. However, the panes may be made of other types of glass, such as quartz glass, borosilicate glass, or aluminosilicate, or of hard, transparent plastics, such as polycarbonate or polymethyl methacrylate. The panes may be colorless, or they may be colored or tinted.

[0104] The outer pane, inner pane, and / or intermediate layer may have further suitable coatings known to themselves, such as anti-reflective coatings, non-stick coatings, scratch-resistant coatings, photocatalytic coatings, or solar shading coatings, or Low-E coatings.

[0105] The thickness of the outer and inner panes can vary widely and therefore can be adapted to the requirements of individual cases. The outer and inner panes preferably have a thickness of 0.5 mm to 5 mm, and particularly preferably 1 mm to 3 mm.

[0106] Furthermore, the present invention extends to a glazing unit having a laminated pane according to the present invention. The first busbar, the second busbar, and any further busbars are connected to a voltage source, thereby enabling different optical states in a second region of the active layer to be activated by changes in electrical voltage across the busbars. If present, different optical states can also be activated in further regions of the active layer by changes in electrical voltage across the busbars. The voltage changes across the busbars can be generated by a voltage source. The busbars can be connected to a voltage source by conventional means. Electrical contact is preferably achieved by a suitable connecting cable, such as a foil conductor.

[0107] The present invention also extends to a method for fabricating laminated panes. This method includes at least the following steps in a given order: (a) In the first step, connect the first busbar to the first planar electrode of the functional element and connect the second busbar to the second planar electrode of the functional element. (b) In the second step, the functional elements are arranged together with the outer pane, inner pane, and thermoplastic intermediate layer to form a layer stack, and then laminated to form a laminated pane.

[0108] In an advantageous embodiment of the method according to the present invention, the thermoplastic intermediate layer in step (b) of the method comprises a first thermoplastic laminate film, a second thermoplastic laminate film, and a third thermoplastic laminate film, wherein a functional element is disposed between the first thermoplastic laminate film and the second thermoplastic laminate film, and the third thermoplastic laminate film is disposed to surround the functional element, for example, as a frame.

[0109] In an advantageous embodiment of the method according to the present invention, in a method step preceding method step (a), the active layer of the functional element is divided into a first segment and a second segment by segmentation by laser irradiation.

[0110] The electrical contacts of the busbars are preferably made before the stacking of the stacked panes.

[0111] Any existing printing, such as opaque cover printing or printed busbars for electrical contact of functional elements, is preferably applied by screen printing.

[0112] Lamination is preferably carried out under the influence of heat, vacuum, and / or pressure. Known lamination methods, such as autoclaving, vacuum bagging, vacuum ringing, calendering, vacuum laminating, or a combination thereof, may be used.

[0113] The present invention further includes the use of the laminated pane according to the present invention, having electrically controllable functional elements, as internal or external glazing in a vehicle, preferably as a windshield or roof pane in a vehicle, or as internal or external glazing in a building, wherein the electrically controllable functional elements are used as solar radiation protection, sun visors, or privacy protection, preferably as sun visors.

[0114] The present invention further includes the use of the laminated pane according to the present invention as a windshield or roof pane for a vehicle.

[0115] The present invention further includes the use of an electrically controllable functional element as a sun visor in a vehicle's windshield or roof pane, wherein the functional element comprises: an active layer having a first surface, a second surface, and a peripheral surface; a first planar electrode extending across the first surface within a first region of the active layer; and a second planar electrode extending across the first surface within a second region of the active layer. Furthermore, the functional element comprises: a third planar electrode extending across the second surface within at least the first and second regions of the active layer; and an electrical bridge electrically conductively connecting the first planar electrode to the third planar electrode. The first planar electrode has a first protruding region relative to the active layer, and the second planar electrode has a second protruding region relative to the active layer. Furthermore, a first busbar is positioned on at least the first protruding region, and a second busbar is positioned on at least the second protruding region. The first and second planar electrodes are electrically isolated from each other.

[0116] The present invention will be described in more detail with reference to the drawings. The drawings are schematic and not to scale. The drawings do not limit the present invention in any way. In the drawings, the following applies: [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0117] [Figure 1] Figure 1 shows a plan view of the second surface of a functional element, which can be installed in a laminated pane according to the present invention, and which has a busbar. [Figure 2] Figure 2 shows the functional element from Figure 1 as a side view of the first portion of the peripheral surface of the functional element. [Figure 3] Figure 3 shows the functional element of Figure 1 as a further side view of a further portion of the peripheral surface of the functional element. [Figure 4] Figure 4 shows a plan view of an embodiment of the laminated pane according to the present invention. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view of the laminated pane according to the present invention shown in Figure 4. [Figure 6]Figure 6 shows a further embodiment of the laminated pane according to the present invention in a plan view. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view of the laminated pane according to the present invention shown in Figure 6. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a side view of the functional elements used within the stacked panes of Figures 6 and 7. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0118] Figures 1, 2, and 3 show details of an electrically controllable optical element 4, which may be part of a laminated pane 100 according to the present invention. Figure 1 shows a plan view of the functional element 4; Figures 2 and 3 show side views of the peripheral surface of the functional element 4, respectively. The functional element 4 has an active layer 5 having a first surface A, a second surface B, and a peripheral surface S. Figure 2 is a side view showing a plan view of the second portion S'' of the peripheral surface S of the active layer 5. Figure 3 shows a side view rotated 90° from the side view of Figure 2. The line of sight to the functional element 4 in Figure 3 is indicated by the dashed arrow in Figure 1. The controllable functional element 4 is, for example, a PDLC multilayer film.

[0119] The active layer 5 is divided into a first segment 5.1 and a second segment 5.2. The first planar electrode 6.1 is applied to the first surface A of the active layer 5 within the region of the first segment 5.1. The second planar electrode 6.2 is applied to the first surface A of the active layer 5 within the region of the second segment 5.2. The third planar electrode 6.3 is applied to the second surface B of the active layer 5. The third planar electrode 6.3 extends across the entire second surface B of the active layer 5. Together, the first planar electrode 6.1 and the second planar electrode 6.2 extend across the entire first surface A of the active layer 5. The electrical bridge 7 electrically connects the first planar electrode 6.1 to the third planar electrode 6.3.

[0120] In Figure 1, linear barrier regions are shown by dashed lines, separating the first planar electrode 6.1 from the second planar electrode 6.2 and the first segment 5.1 of the active layer 5 from the second segment 5.2 of the active layer 5. In Figure 2, the linear barrier regions between the first planar electrode 6.1 and the second planar electrode 6.2, and between the first segment 5.1 and the second segment 5.2, are represented by visible gaps. Linear barrier regions, also called barrier lines, function for electrical isolation in the case of the first and second planar electrodes 6.1 and 6.2, thereby positioning the two electrodes electrically isolated from each other. In the case of the segmented active layer 5, the barrier lines play a role in improving the optical properties of the functional element 4. The barrier lines between the planar electrodes 6.1, 6.2 and segments 5.1, 5.2 are introduced into the functional element 4, for example, by laser ablation. The barrier lines have a width of, for example, 50 μm.

[0121] The active layer 5 also has a peripheral surface S that extends between the first surface A and the second surface B. Within the first portion S' of the peripheral surface S of the active layers 5, 5.1, the first planar electrode 6.1 protrudes beyond the active layers 5, 5.1 (see Figure 2), thereby giving the first planar electrode 6.1 a protruding region U' relative to the active layer 5. Within the second portion S'' of the peripheral surface S of the active layers 5, 5.2, the second planar electrode 6.2 protrudes beyond the active layers 5, 5.2 (see Figure 3), thereby giving the second planar electrode 6.2 a protruding region U'' relative to the active layer 5. The protrusions u of the first planar electrode 6.1 and the second planar electrode 6.2 relative to the active layer 5 are, for example, 3 mm each. The protrusion u is measured here and below by the distance from the outer protruding end of the planar electrode to the end of the active layer 5 (the distance measured perpendicular to the portion of the side surface S from which the planar electrode protrudes).

[0122] The first busbar 8.1 is applied to the protruding region U' of the first planar electrode 6.1, and the second busbar 8.2 is applied to the protruding region U'' of the second planar electrode 6.2. Busbars 8.1 and 8.2 are applied to the surfaces of the planar electrodes 6.1 and 6.2 facing the active layer 5, respectively. The protruding region U' of the first planar electrode 6.1 is offset by 90° from the protruding region U'' of the second planar electrode 6.2. Thus, busbars 8.1 and 8.2 are not positioned opposite each other, but are similarly offset by 90° from each other. Busbars 8.1 and 8.2 are designed, for example, as a silver-containing printing paste with a layer thickness of 10 μm. The first planar electrode 6.1 and the third planar electrode 6.3 are electrically conductively connected to each other via an electrically conductive bridge 7. The electrically conductive bridge 7 is positioned within a perforated notch in the first segment 5.1 of the active layer 5 and is in direct spatial contact with the first planar electrode 6.1 and the third planar electrode 6.3, thereby applying the voltage applied to the first planar electrode 6.1 to the third planar electrode 6.3 via the electrically conductive bridge 7. Alternatively, the electrically conductive bridge 7 may be positioned along the side surface S of the active layer 5 and may be in contact with the first planar electrode 6.1 and the third planar electrode 6.3 within an end region (not shown).

[0123] The first busbar 8.1 and the second busbar 8.2 are connected to the voltage source 10 via connecting wires. The voltage source 10 is then connected to a control unit, through which the voltage supplied to the functional element 4 can be set.

[0124] Planar electrodes 6.1, 6.2, and 6.3 are each applied to a carrier film (carrier film not shown) and have substantially the same surface area as the specific applied planar electrode 6.1, 6.2, and 6.3. The carrier film is provided with an ITO coating facing the active layer 5 and having a thickness of approximately 100 nm, which forms the planar electrodes 6.1, 6.2, and 6.3. Thus, the planar electrodes 6.1, 6.2, and 6.3 are positioned between the carrier film and the active layer 5. The carrier film is not shown in the drawings. The carrier film is made of, for example, polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and has a thickness of, for example, 0.125 mm. The planar electrodes 6.1, 6.2, and 6.3 are positioned between the corresponding carrier film and the active layer 5.

[0125] The active layer 5 contains a polymer matrix in which liquid crystals are dispersed, which orient themselves according to the voltage applied to the planar electrodes 6.1, 6.2, and 6.3, thereby allowing control of the optical properties. The second segment 5.2 of the active layer 5 changes its optical state according to the voltage applied to the first planar electrode 6.1 and the second planar electrode 6.2. The optical change is caused by the voltage difference between the second planar electrode 6.2 and the third planar electrode 6.3, which reorients the liquid crystals within the second segment 5.2.

[0126] Figures 4 and 5 show embodiments of the laminated pane 100 according to the present invention, in which the functional element 4 is arranged within the laminated pane 100 as substantially described in Figures 1 to 3. The laminated pane 100 is designed as a windshield with an electrically controllable sun visor for a vehicle, and the functional element 4 is cut and curved (or can be bent) depending on its arrangement within the windshield. Figure 4 shows a plan view of the inner surface of the laminated pane 100, i.e., the surface of the laminated pane 100 provided to face the interior of the vehicle. Figure 5 shows a cross-sectional view of the laminated pane 100 of Figure 4, indicated by the cross-sectional line X-X' in Figure 4.

[0127] The laminated pane 100 has an outer pane 1 and an inner pane 2, which are connected to each other via a thermoplastic intermediate layer 3. The outer pane 1 has a thickness of 2.1 mm and is made of, for example, colorless soda-lime glass. The inner pane 2 has a thickness of 1.6 mm and is made of, for example, colorless soda-lime glass. The laminated pane has an upper end D that faces the roof at the installation position and a lower end M that faces the engine compartment at the installation position.

[0128] The outer pane 1 has an inner side surface II facing the thermoplastic intermediate layer 3, and an outer surface I facing the opposite side from the thermoplastic intermediate layer 3. The outer surface I of the outer pane 1 is also the outer surface of the laminated pane 100. The inner pane 2 has an outer surface III facing the thermoplastic intermediate layer 3. Furthermore, the inner pane 2 has an inner side surface IV, which faces the opposite side from the thermoplastic intermediate layer 3 and is also the inner side surface of the laminated pane 100.

[0129] The thermoplastic intermediate layer 3 comprises a first thermoplastic laminated film 3.1, a second thermoplastic laminated film 3.2, and a third thermoplastic laminated film 3.3, which are stacked and overlapped with each other in a planar manner between the outer pane 1 and the inner pane 2, with the third thermoplastic laminated film 3.3 positioned between the first thermoplastic laminated film 3.1 and the second thermoplastic laminated film 3.2. The laminated films 3.1, 3.2, and 3.3 each have a thickness of, for example, 0.38 mm. The laminated films 3.1, 3.2, and 3.3 consist of, for example, 78% by weight of polyvinyl butyral (PVB) and 22% by weight of 2,2'-ethylenedioxydiethylbis(2-ethylhexanoate) as a plasticizer.

[0130] A functional element 4, whose optical properties can be controlled by an electrical voltage, is positioned between the first thermoplastic laminate film 3.1 and the second thermoplastic laminate film 3.2. For simplicity, the power supply lines are not shown. The first thermoplastic layer 3.1 is connected to the outer pane 1, and the second thermoplastic layer 3.2 is connected to the inner pane 2. The intermediate third thermoplastic laminate film 3.3 has a notch into which the cut functional element 4 is precisely fitted, i.e., inserted so as to be flush with all sides of the active layer 5. The protruding regions U', U'' of the first and second planar electrodes 6.1 and 6.2 can overlap with the third thermoplastic laminate film 3.3 (not shown here). Thus, the third thermoplastic laminate film 3.3 forms a kind of frame for the functional element 4, so to speak, which is enclosed and protected by the thermoplastic material around its entire circumference.

[0131] Functional element 4 functions as a sun visor within the laminated pane 100, which is designed as a windshield, and is located in the area above the central field of view B (as defined by ECE-R43). The height of the sun visor is, for example, 21 cm.

[0132] The first laminated film 3.1 may have a colored region positioned between the functional element 4 and the outer pane 3 (not shown). This further reduces the light transmittance of the windshield within the region of the functional element 4 (for example, 30% light transmittance within the colored region), and the milky white appearance of the PDLC functional element 4 is mitigated in the diffused state. This makes the aesthetics of the windshield considerably more attractive.

[0133] The laminated pane 100 has an all-around peripheral cover print 11, as is typical for windshields, which is formed of opaque enamel on the inner side surfaces II and IV of the outer pane 1 and inner pane 2. The distance between the upper end D of the functional element 4 and the side surface of the laminated pane 100 is less than the width of the cover print 11, so that the side surfaces of the functional element 4, except for the side surface facing the central field of view B, are hidden by the cover print 11. Electrical connections (not shown), such as busbars 8.1 and 8.2, are also conveniently placed within the area of ​​the cover print 11 and thus hidden.

[0134] The functional element 4 has a barrier layer 9 on all its side surfaces, and this barrier layer covers the entire peripheral surface of the functional element 4 and the peripheral edge region of the upper side (i.e., the surface facing the first thermoplastic laminated film 3.1). The upper side of the functional element 4 is also the second surface B of the active layer 5 covered by the third planar electrode 6.3 (see Figures 1-3). Preferably, the functional element 4 is also covered by the barrier layer 9 in the edge region of the lower side (i.e., the surface facing the second thermoplastic laminated film 3.2), and this does not have protruding regions U', U'' by the first or second planar electrodes 6.1, 6.2 (not shown). The lower side of the functional element 4 is also the first surface A of the active layer 5 covered by the first and second planar electrodes 6.1, 6.2 (see Figures 1-3). The term "peripheral surface of the functional element 4" substantially refers to the peripheral surface S of the active layer 5, as shown in Figures 1-3.

[0135] The barrier layer 9 reduces or prevents the diffusion of plasticizer into the active layer 5, thereby increasing the service life of the functional element 4. The thickness of the barrier layer 9 (or in other words, the material thickness) is, for example, at least 50 nm. The barrier layer 9 is, for example, an organosilicon layer. The barrier layer may be formed by multilayered monolayers.

[0136] Figure 6 shows a plan view of a further embodiment of the laminated pane 100 according to the present invention. Figure 7 shows a cross-sectional view of the laminated pane 100 of Figure 6, where the cross-sectional line X-X' is shown in Figure 6. The laminated pane 100 is designed as a roof pane for a vehicle. A functional element 4 is located between the outer pane 1 and the inner pane 2 within a thermoplastic intermediate layer 3. The functional element 4 is located between a first thermoplastic laminated film 3.1 and a second thermoplastic laminated film 3.2. A third thermoplastic laminated film 3.3 is located around the functional element 4 in a frame-like manner. The laminated pane 100 has an all-around peripheral cover print 11, as is common with respect to roof panes, which is formed by an opaque enamel on the inner side surfaces II, IV of the outer pane 1 and the inner pane 2.

[0137] Functional element 4 can have its optical properties controlled by an electrical voltage. For simplicity, the power supply lines are not shown. Functional element 4 is divided into several switchable regions 5.2, 5'. See Figure 8 for more details. The peripheral edges of functional element 4, including the busbars 8.1, 8.2, 8', are completely concealed by the cover printing 11. Functional element 4 extends substantially across the entire surface of the laminated pane 100, except for the peripheral edge regions that are completely concealed by the cover printing 11. In other words, functional element 4 extends across the entire field of view of the laminated pane 100.

[0138] Functional element 4 has a barrier layer 9 on its entire surface, and this barrier layer covers the entire peripheral surface of functional element 4 and the peripheral edge region of the upper side (i.e., the surface facing the first thermoplastic laminated film 3.1). The upper side of functional element 4 is also the second surface B of the active layer 5 covered by the third planar electrode 6.3 (see Figure 8). Functional element 4 does not have a barrier layer 9 on its lower side (i.e., the surface facing the second thermoplastic laminated film 3.2) because the first planar electrode 6.1, the second planar electrode 6.2, and all further planar electrodes 6' have protruding regions U', U'', U''' relative to the active layer 5, thereby providing protrusions along the entire peripheral edge of the active layer 5, making the application of a barrier layer 9 unnecessary (not shown). The lower side of functional element 4 is also the first surface A of the active layer 5 covered by the first and second planar electrodes 6.1, 6.2 (see Figure 8). The term "peripheral surface of functional element 4" essentially refers to the peripheral surface S of the active layer 5, as shown in Figure 8.

[0139] The outer pane 1 and inner pane 2 are made of soda-lime glass and can be colored as desired. The outer pane 1 has a thickness of, for example, 2.1 mm; the inner pane 2 has a thickness of 1.6 mm. The thermoplastic laminate films 3.1, 3.2, and 3.3 each have a thickness of, for example, 0.38 mm and consist of, for example, 78 wt% polyvinyl butyral (PVB) and 22 wt% 2,2'-ethylenedioxydiethylbis(2-ethylhexanoate) as a plasticizer.

[0140] Figure 8 shows a side view of functional element 4, which is part of the laminated pane 100 in the embodiments of Figures 6 and 7. The modified form of functional element 4 shown in Figure 8 substantially corresponds to the modified forms in Figures 1 to 3. Therefore, only the differences will be explained, and for other details, please refer to the explanations in Figures 1 to 3.

[0141] In contrast to functional element 4 in Figures 1-3, in addition to the first planar electrode 6.1 and the second planar electrode 6.2, an additional planar electrode 6' is applied to the first surface A of the active layer 5. A total of five planar electrodes 6.1, 6.2, and 6', electrically isolated from each other, are applied to the first surface A of the active layer 5. The second planar electrode 6.2 and the three additional planar electrodes 6' are arranged adjacent to each other in a strip-like manner on the active layer 5, so that in the plan view, four substantially rectangular regions can be seen (see Figure 6). The planar electrodes 6.2 and 6' are arranged parallel and adjacent to each other, and the long sides of the individual planar electrodes 6' and 6.2 face each other. The planar electrodes 6.1, 6.2, and 6' are separated from each other by a barrier line, which is introduced, for example, by laser ablation. The width of the barrier line is, for example, 50 μm.

[0142] In contrast to the functional element 4 in Figures 1-3, the active layer 5 here is not divided into regions separated from each other by individual segments, i.e., blocking regions. The entire active layer 5 is a continuous layer, but nevertheless it can be divided into a first region 5.1, a second region 5.2, and three further regions 5' by the divided planar electrodes 6.1, 6.2, and 6' on the first surface A. In the second region 5.2 and the further regions 5', different optical states can be activated by applying voltage to the first planar electrode 6.1, the second planar electrode 6.2, and any further planar electrode 6' by the voltage source 10. The second region 5.2 and the further regions 5' can be switched independently of each other, thereby allowing the active layer 5 to be in different optical states depending on the regions 5.2 and 5'. The first region 5.1 of the active layer 5 is not switchable and is preferably hidden by the cover print 11 when installed in a laminate pane 100.

[0143] The first planar electrode 6.1, the second planar electrode 6.2, and the further planar electrode 6' are connected to busbars 8.1, 8.2, and 8' within regions U', U'', U'''' that protrude from the active layer 5 (Figure 8 shows only the first planar electrode 6.1). The busbars 8.1, 8.2, and 8' are applied to the surface of each planar electrode 6.1, 6.2, and 6' facing the active layer 5. The busbars 8.1, 8.2, and 8' are then connected to the voltage source 10 by electric wires. Together, the first planar electrode 6.1, the second planar electrode 6.2, and the further planar electrode 6' protrude along the entire peripheral surface S relative to the active layer 5, except for linear blocking regions. This provides relatively good protection for the functional element 4 from the effects of plasticizers, such as from the PVB layer, which can impair the optical quality of the functional element 4. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0144] 1. Outer pane 2. Inner pane 3 Thermoplastic Interlayer 3.1 First thermoplastic laminated film of intermediate layer 3 3.2 Second thermoplastic laminated film of intermediate layer 3 3.3 Third thermoplastic laminated film of intermediate layer 3 4 Functional Elements 5 Active layer 5.1 First segment / first region of active layer 5 5.2 Second segment / second region of active layer 5 Further segments / regions of the 5' active layer 5 6.1 First plane electrode 6.2 Second plane electrode 6.3 Third plane electrode 6' Further planar electrodes 7 Electric Bridge 8.1 First Bus Bar 8.2 Second Bus Bar 8' Further bass bar 9. Barrier layer 10 Voltage source 11. Cover Printing 100 Layered Panels I. Outer surface of outer pane 1 II. Inner surface of outer pane 1 III. Outer surface of inner pane 2 IV. Inner side surface of inner pane 2 A First surface of the active layer 5 B Second surface of the active layer 5 S Peripheral surface of the active layer 5 S' First part of the side surface S S'' Second part of the side surface S U' Protruding region of the first planar electrode 6.1 U'' Protruding region of the second planar electrode 6.2 U''' Further protruding region of the planar electrode 6' X-X' section line H-shaped stacked pane 100 as a windshield, central field of view D Upper edge of laminated pane 100, roof edge Lower end of M layered pane 100, engine edge

Claims

1. A stacked pane (100) having electrically controllable optical properties, the following: An outer pane (1), a thermoplastic intermediate layer (3), an inner pane (2), and a functional element (4) disposed between the outer pane (1) and the inner pane (2) and having electrically controllable optical properties. It has the following, where the functional element (4) is: - Active layer (5) having a first surface (A), a second surface (B), and a peripheral surface (S), - Within the first region (5.1) of the active layer (5), a first planar electrode (6.1) extends across the first surface (A), - Within the second region (5.2) of the active layer (5), a second planar electrode (6.2) extends across the first surface (A), - A third planar electrode (6.3) extending across the second surface (B) within at least the first region (5.1) and the second region (5.2) of the active layer (5), and - An electrical bridge (7) electrically connects the first planar electrode (6.1) to the third planar electrode (6.3). It has, Herein, the first planar electrode (6.1) has a first protruding region (U') relative to the active layer (5), the second planar electrode (6.2) has a second protruding region (U'') relative to the active layer (5), the first busbar (8.1) is positioned on at least the first protruding region (U'), the second busbar (8.2) is positioned on at least the second protruding region (U''), and the first planar electrode (6.1) and the second planar electrode (6.2) are electrically isolated from each other, in a laminated pane (100).

2. The laminated pane (100) according to claim 1, wherein the active layer (5) has a first segment (5.1) in the first region and a second segment (5.2) in the second region.

3. The laminated pane (100) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the first protruding region (U') and the second protruding region (U'') protrude together along the entire peripheral surface (S) beyond the active layer (5).

4. The laminated pane (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the thermoplastic intermediate layer (3) comprises at least a first thermoplastic laminated film (3.1) and a second thermoplastic laminated film (3.2), and the functional element (4) is disposed between the first thermoplastic laminated film and the second thermoplastic laminated films (3.1, 3.2).

5. The laminated pane (100) according to claim 4, having a third frame-shaped thermoplastic laminated film (3.3) in which the thermoplastic intermediate layer (3) is arranged peripherally around the functional element (4).

6. The laminated pane (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the active layer (5) is sealed by at least one barrier layer (9) on at least a portion (S', S'') of the peripheral surface (S), preferably on the entire peripheral surface (S).

7. The laminated pane (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the functional element (4) is a PDLC functional element.

8. The laminated pane (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the second region (5.2) is at least five times larger in surface area than the first region (5.1), and more preferably at least ten times larger.

9. The laminated pane (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the first planar electrode (6.1) and / or the second planar electrode (6.2) protrude from the active layer (5) by at least 1 mm, preferably at least 5 mm.

10. The laminated pane (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the first busbar (8.1) is electrically conductively connected to the first planar electrode (6.1) by an electrically conductive material, preferably a silver-containing material.

11. A glazing unit having a stacked pane (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the first busbar and the second busbar (8.1, 8.2) are connected to a voltage source (10), and different optical states of the second region (5.2) can be activated by a change in electrical voltage.

12. A method for manufacturing a laminated pane (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, (a) The first busbar (8.1) is connected to the first planar electrode (6.1) of the functional element (4), and the second busbar (8.2) is connected to the second planar electrode (6.2) of the functional element (4), (b) The functional element (4) is arranged together with the outer pane (1), the inner pane (2), and the thermoplastic intermediate layer (3) to form a layer stack, and then the layer stacks are stacked to form a laminated pane (100). Method for fabricating a layered pane (100).

13. The method according to claim 12, wherein the active layer (5) is divided into the first segment (5.1) and the second segment (5.2) by segmentation by laser irradiation.

14. Use of the laminated pane (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 10 as a windshield or roof pane for a vehicle.

15. The use according to claim 14, wherein the electrically controllable functional element (4) is used as a sun visor in the windshield or roof pane of a vehicle.

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