Laminated glass, method for manufacturing laminated glass

Abstract

To provide a glass laminate and a manufacturing method of a glass laminate, capable of reducing an occurrence of a liquid crystal reservoir or an air gap, and also a glass laminate capable of preventing a seal material from deteriorating.SOLUTION: A glass laminate 1 includes a first glass plate 33A, a first interlayer 31A, a liquid crystal film 10, a second interlayer 31B and a second glass plate arranged and laminated in this order. The contour shapes of the first glass plate 33A and the second glass plate 33B are formed larger than that of the liquid crystal film 10. A spacer 32 is arranged at least in part of an area located between the first glass plate 33A and the second glass plate 33B, the area on which the liquid crystal film 10 is not arranged.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to laminated glass and a method for manufacturing laminated glass.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, for example, a light control member that can be used for an electronic blind or the like attached to a window to control the transmission of external light has been proposed (Patent Document 1, Patent Document 2). One of such light control members uses liquid crystal. A liquid crystal film as a light control member using liquid crystal is manufactured by sandwiching a liquid crystal material between transparent plate materials including transparent electrodes to form a liquid crystal cell, and this liquid crystal cell is sandwiched between linear polarizing plates. By changing the electric field applied between the transparent electrodes, the alignment of the liquid crystal is changed, and the amount of transmitted external light is controlled.

[0003] In addition, it has been proposed to manufacture laminated glass by further sandwiching the above-described liquid crystal film with glass (Patent Document 3). However, conventionally, laminated glass sandwiching a liquid crystal film has not actually been manufactured. Therefore, simply applying the same method as that of conventional laminated glass configured by sandwiching an intermediate film as it is may not be able to correctly manufacture laminated glass sandwiching a liquid crystal film in some cases. When laminated glass sandwiching a liquid crystal film cannot be correctly manufactured, there is a phenomenon in which liquid crystal accumulates in part in the liquid crystal film (hereinafter referred to as "liquid crystal accumulation"). In addition, voids may occur in part of the laminated glass. When such liquid crystal accumulation or voids exist, they have to be discarded as defective products, and improvement is desired.

[0004] In addition, the liquid crystal film is configured by sealing the liquid crystal layer with a sealing material. Depending on the use environment, there has been a concern that the sealing material may deteriorate when irradiated with sunlight. When the sealing material deteriorates, the liquid crystal in the liquid crystal layer may leak out, and countermeasures have been desired.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Document

[0005]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

Patent Document 3

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0006] The problems of the present invention are to provide a laminated glass capable of reducing the generation of liquid crystal accumulation and voids, and a method for manufacturing the laminated glass. Another problem of the present invention is to provide a laminated glass capable of preventing deterioration of the sealing material.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0007] The present invention solves the above problems by the following means. For ease of understanding, reference numerals corresponding to the embodiments of the present invention are used for explanation, but the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0008] The first invention is such that a first glass plate (33A), a first intermediate film (31A), a liquid crystal film (10), a second intermediate film (31B), and a second glass plate (33B) are laminated and arranged in this order. The liquid crystal film (10) has a liquid crystal layer (14) and a sealing material (25) that seals the liquid crystal layer (14) and is arranged so as to surround the periphery of the liquid crystal layer (14). The first glass plate (33A) and the second glass plate (33B) are formed with an outer shape larger than that of the liquid crystal film (10). A spacer (32) is arranged in at least a part of the region sandwiched between the first glass plate (33A) and the second glass plate (33B) and where the liquid crystal film (10) is not arranged. In a plan view, the outside of the sealing material (25) is a laminated glass (1) surrounded by the spacer (32).

[0009] The second invention is the laminated glass (1) according to the first invention, characterized in that the spacer (32) is arranged so as to entirely surround the outer periphery of the liquid crystal film (10).

[0010] The third invention is the laminated glass (1) according to the first invention, characterized in that the height of the spacer (32) is equal to or greater than the height of the liquid crystal film (10).

[0011] The fourth invention is the laminated glass (1) according to the first invention, characterized in that the spacer (32) is arranged adjacent to the liquid crystal film (10).

[0012] The fifth invention is the laminated glass (1) according to the first invention, characterized in that the spacer (32) is arranged with a distance from the liquid crystal film (10).

[0013] The sixth invention is the laminated glass (1) described in the fifth invention, wherein at least one of the first intermediate film (31A) and the second intermediate film (31B) is partially inserted and disposed between the spacer (32) and the liquid crystal film (10). The laminated glass (1) is characterized by this.

[0014] The seventh invention is a method for manufacturing laminated glass (1) using a laminate (30) in which a liquid crystal film (10) is sandwiched between a first glass plate (33A) and a second glass plate (33B). The liquid crystal film (10) has a liquid crystal layer (14) and a sealing material (25) that seals the liquid crystal layer (14) and is disposed so as to surround the periphery of the liquid crystal layer (14). The first glass plate (33A) and the second glass plate (33B) are formed to have an outer shape larger than that of the liquid crystal film (10). In a region sandwiched between the first glass plate (33A) and the second glass plate (33B) and at least a part of a region where the liquid crystal film (10) is not disposed, a spacer (32) is disposed so as to surround the outside of the sealing material (25) in a plan view. A spacer arranging step, and a pressing step of pressing at least one plate surface of the first glass plate (33A) and the second glass plate (33B) with the spacer (32) disposed. It is a method for manufacturing laminated glass (1) comprising.

[0015] The eighth invention is a method for manufacturing laminated glass (1) according to the seventh invention, wherein the height of the spacer (32) is equal to or greater than the height of the liquid crystal film (10). It is a method for manufacturing laminated glass (1) characterized by this.

[0016] The ninth invention is a laminated glass (1A, 1B, 1C, 1D) in which a first glass plate (33A), a first intermediate film (31A), a liquid crystal film (10), a second intermediate film (31B), and a second glass plate (33B) are laminated in this order, the liquid crystal film (10) has a sealing material (25) for sealing liquid crystal around it, and light-shielding portions (70A, 70B, 70C, 70D) for shielding light from the outside reaching the sealing material (25) are provided along the outer periphery of the laminated glass (1A, 1B, 1C, 1D).

[0017] The tenth invention is the laminated glass (1A) according to the ninth invention, wherein in the use state, the light-shielding portion (70A) is arranged from the end face of the laminated glass (1A) to a position inside the sealing material (25), and is arranged at a position between the liquid crystal film (10) and the first glass plate (33A).

[0018] The eleventh invention is the laminated glass (1B) according to the ninth invention, wherein the light-shielding portions (70A, 70B) are arranged from the end face of the laminated glass (1B) to a position inside the sealing material (25), and are arranged at both a position between the liquid crystal film (10) and the first glass plate (33A) and a position between the liquid crystal film (10) and the second glass plate (33B).

[0019] The twelfth invention is the laminated glass (1C) according to the ninth invention, wherein the light-shielding portion (70C) covers the end face of the laminated glass (1C) and is arranged sandwiching the laminated glass (1C) from the end face to a position inside the sealing material (25).

[0020] The 13th invention is the laminated glass (1D) described in the 9th invention, wherein the light-shielding portions (70A, 70B, 70D) cover the end faces of the laminated glass (1D) and are arranged sandwiching the laminated glass (1D) from the end faces to positions outside the sealing material (25), and are arranged at both positions between the liquid crystal film (10) and the first glass plate (33A) and between the liquid crystal film (10) and the second glass plate (33B). The laminated glass (1D) is characterized by this.

[0021] The 14th invention is the laminated glass (1A, 1B, 1C, 1D) described in the 9th invention, wherein the first glass plate (33A) and the second glass plate (33B) are formed with an outer shape larger than that of the liquid crystal film (10), and a spacer (32) is arranged in at least a part of the region sandwiched between the first glass plate (33A) and the second glass plate (33B) and where the liquid crystal film (10) is not arranged. The laminated glass (1A, 1B, 1C, 1D) is characterized by this.

Advantages of the Invention

[0022] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a laminated glass and a method for manufacturing a laminated glass that can reduce the occurrence of liquid crystal accumulation and voids. Further, according to the present invention, it is possible to provide a laminated glass that can prevent deterioration of the sealing material.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0023]

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Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0024] Hereinafter, the best mode for carrying out the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings and the like.

[0025] (First Embodiment) FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view showing the configuration of the laminate 30 of the present embodiment. In addition, each of the figures shown below, including FIG. 1, is a schematically shown figure, and the size and shape of each part are exaggerated as appropriate for easy understanding. Also, in the following description, specific numerical values, shapes, materials, etc. are shown for the description, but these can be changed as appropriate. In this specification, with respect to terms specifying shapes and geometric conditions, such as terms like parallel and orthogonal, in addition to their strict meanings, states having errors to the extent that they exhibit similar optical functions and can be regarded as parallel or orthogonal are also included. In this specification, words such as plate, sheet, and film are used, but in general usage, they are used in the order of plate, sheet, and film in descending order of thickness, and this specification also follows this usage. However, since such a distinction has no technical meaning, these words can be replaced as appropriate. In this specification, the sheet surface refers to the surface that becomes the planar direction of the sheet when the entire sheet is viewed in each sheet. The same applies to the plate surface and the film surface. In the present invention, "transparent" means a material that transmits at least light of the wavelength to be used. For example, even if a material does not transmit visible light, if it transmits infrared light, it is to be treated as transparent when used for infrared applications. In addition, specific numerical values defined in this specification and the claims should be treated as including a general error range. That is, a difference of about ±10% is substantially no difference, and a numerical value set in a range slightly exceeding the numerical range of this case should be interpreted as being substantially within the scope of the present invention.

[0026] In the description of this embodiment, a laminate in which each component member of the laminated glass 1 is laminated is referred to as a laminate 30. Since the laminate 30 refers to the state before each member of the laminated glass 1 is joined, its configuration is equivalent to that of the laminated glass 1. Therefore, the exploded perspective view of FIG. 1 also shows the exploded perspective view of the laminated glass 1. The laminate 30 of this embodiment is laminated and arranged in this order: a first glass plate 33A, a first intermediate film forming sheet 31A, a liquid crystal film 10, a second intermediate film forming sheet 31B, and a second glass plate 33B. Also, a spacer 32 and a tilt relaxation member 34 are arranged at positions that are in the same plane as the liquid crystal film 10.

[0027] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view showing the liquid crystal film 10 of the embodiment. The liquid crystal film 10 is configured as laminated glass and is used in a part for achieving light control. Examples of the part for achieving light control include parts where external light of a vehicle enters (rear window, side window, sunroof, etc.), window glass of a building, a showcase, an indoor transparent partition, and the like.

[0028] The liquid crystal film 10 is a light control member that controls transmitted light using liquid crystal. A liquid crystal cell 15 is manufactured by sandwiching a liquid crystal layer 14 with a film-like second laminate 13 for liquid crystal and a first laminate 12 for liquid crystal, and this liquid crystal cell 15 is sandwiched by linear polarizing plates 16 and 17 to be created. In this embodiment, the VA (Vertical Alignment) method is adopted for driving the liquid crystal layer 14, but it is not limited thereto, and various driving methods such as the TN (Twisted Nematic) method and the IPS (In-Plane-Switching) method can be applied. Note that the VA method is a method of controlling transmitted light by changing the orientation of liquid crystal between vertical alignment and horizontal alignment. When there is no electric field, the liquid crystal is vertically aligned, and the liquid crystal layer 14 is sandwiched by a vertical alignment layer to form a liquid crystal cell 15, which is configured to horizontally align the liquid crystal material by applying an electric field.

[0029] In the liquid crystal film 10, a liquid crystal internal spacer 24 for keeping the thickness of the liquid crystal layer 14 constant is provided in the first liquid crystal laminate 12 and / or the second liquid crystal laminate 13. The first liquid crystal laminate 12 and the second liquid crystal laminate 13 are each formed by sequentially forming a first electrode 22A, a second electrode 22B, an alignment layer 23A, and an alignment layer 23B on substrates 21A and 21B. Also, the liquid crystal film 10 may be configured to include a guest-host type liquid crystal cell. In this case, the linear polarizing plate can be omitted. Also, in the case of the guest-host method, the linear polarizing plate may be disposed on one or both of the liquid crystal cells as needed.

[0030] The liquid crystal film 10 is configured to control the transmission of external light by changing the potential difference between the first electrode 22A and the second electrode 22B, and to switch between a transparent state and a non-transparent state. In this embodiment, an example of driving the liquid crystal layer 14 using a so-called normally black configuration will be described, but it is not limited thereto, and it may be driven in a normally white configuration. Also, when the IPS method is adopted, the first electrode 22A and the second electrode 22B are integrally formed on either the alignment layer 23A side or the alignment layer 23B side, and the first liquid crystal laminate 12 and the second liquid crystal laminate 13 for liquid crystal are configured accordingly. Note that normally black means a structure where the transmittance is minimized and a black screen is formed when no voltage is applied to the liquid crystal. Normally white means a structure where the transmittance is maximized and it becomes transparent when no voltage is applied to the liquid crystal.

[0031] [Substrate] The substrates 21A and 21B can be various transparent film materials such as TAC, polycarbonate, COP, acrylic, PET, etc. that have flexibility applicable to the liquid crystal cell 15. In this embodiment, a polycarbonate film material with a hard coat layer formed on both sides is applied.

[0032] [Electrode] The first electrode 22A and the second electrode 22B can apply an electric field to the liquid crystal layer 14 and can adopt various configurations that are perceived as transparent. In this embodiment, the first electrode 22A and the second electrode 22B are formed by manufacturing a transparent conductive film made of ITO (Indium Tin Oxide), which is a transparent electrode material, on the entire surface of the substrates 21A and 21B. As described above, in the IPS mode or the like, the electrodes are configured to be patterned into a desired shape.

[0033] [Alignment layer] The alignment layers 23A and 23B are formed by an optical alignment layer. Various materials applicable to the optical alignment layer can be widely applied as long as they can adopt an optical alignment method. In this embodiment, for example, a photo-dimerizable material is used. This photo-dimerizable material is disclosed in "M. Schadt, K. Schmitt, V. Kozinkov and V. Chigrinov : Jpn. J. Appl. Phys., 31, 2155 (1992)", "M. Schadt, H. Seiberle and A. Schuster : Nature, 381, 212 (1996)", etc.

[0034] The alignment layers 23A and 23B may be manufactured by rubbing treatment instead of the photo-alignment layer. In this case, after manufacturing various material layers applicable to alignment layers such as polyimide, the alignment layers 23A and 23B are formed by manufacturing fine line-shaped uneven shapes by rubbing treatment using a rubbing roll on the surface of this material layer. Also, instead of such alignment layers and photo-alignment layers formed by rubbing treatment, the alignment layers 23A and 23B may be manufactured by performing a shaping process on the fine line-shaped uneven shapes manufactured by rubbing treatment to manufacture the alignment layers.

[0035] [Spacer inside liquid crystal] The spacer 24 inside the liquid crystal is provided to define the thickness of the liquid crystal layer 14, and various resin materials can be widely applied. In this embodiment, it is manufactured from a photoresist. The spacer 24 inside the liquid crystal is formed by coating a photoresist on the substrate 21B on which the second electrode 22B is formed, and then performing exposure and development. Note that the spacer 24 inside the liquid crystal may be provided on the first laminate 12 for liquid crystal, or may be provided on both the first laminate 12 for liquid crystal and the second laminate 13 for liquid crystal. Also, the spacer 24 inside the liquid crystal may be provided on the alignment layer 23B. Further, a so-called bead spacer may be applied as the spacer. The bead spacer may use not only a spherical shape, but also a rod shape (cylindrical shape), an ellipsoidal sphere shape, or the like. When using a bead spacer for the spacer 24 inside the liquid crystal, the bead spacer is arranged by being scattered on the alignment layer after the alignment layer is formed. In this case, from the viewpoint of suppressing the movement of the bead spacer in the liquid crystal layer 14 (on the alignment layer), a fixing layer formed of an adhesive or the like may be provided on the surface of the bead spacer. Also, from the viewpoint of suppressing the movement of the bead spacers in the liquid crystal layer 14, the bead spacers may be pre-dispersed in the resin for forming the alignment layer so that the bead spacers are arranged together with the formation of the alignment layer, or the bead spacers may be pre-dispersed in the liquid crystal material constituting the liquid crystal layer so that the bead spacers are arranged together with the formation of the liquid crystal layer. Note that the bead spacers may be arranged on either one of the first laminate and the second laminate, or may be arranged on each of the laminates, in the same manner as the spacers of the above-described photoresist.

[0036] [Liquid crystal layer] The liquid crystal layer 14 can be widely applied to various liquid crystal materials applicable to this type of dimming member. Specifically, as liquid crystal compounds having no polymerizable functional group, nematic liquid crystal compounds, smectic liquid crystal compounds, and cholesteric liquid crystal compounds can be applied to the liquid crystal layer 14. Examples of the nematic liquid crystal compounds include biphenyl-based compounds, terphenyl-based compounds, phenylcyclohexyl-based compounds, biphenylcyclohexyl-based compounds, phenylbicyclohexyl-based compounds, trifluoro-based compounds, phenyl benzoate-based compounds, phenyl cyclohexyl benzoate-based compounds, phenyl phenyl benzoate-based compounds, phenyl bicyclohexyl carboxylate-based compounds, azomethine-based compounds, azo-based compounds, and azoxy-based compounds, stilbene-based compounds, trans-based compounds, ester-based compounds, bicyclohexyl-based compounds, phenyl pyrimidine-based compounds, biphenyl pyrimidine-based compounds, pyrimidine-based compounds, and biphenyl ethyne-based compounds, etc. Examples of the smectic liquid crystal compounds include ferroelectric polymer liquid crystal compounds such as polyacrylate-based, polymethacrylate-based, polychloroacrylate-based, polyoxirane-based, polysiloxane-based, and polyester-based compounds. Examples of the cholesteric liquid crystal compounds include cholesteryl linoleate, cholesteryl oleate, cellulose, cellulose derivatives, polypeptides, etc. In addition, as commercially available products, liquid crystal materials such as MLC2166 manufactured by Merck can be applied. In the case of the guest-host method, although a liquid crystal material and a dye used for light control are mixed in the liquid crystal layer 14, a mixture of a liquid crystal material and a dye proposed for the guest-host method can be widely applied. The liquid crystal cell 15 has a sealing material 25 disposed so as to surround the liquid crystal layer 14, and the sealing material 25 prevents leakage of the liquid crystal. For example, when the liquid crystal film 10 is square as shown in FIG. 1 and the liquid crystal layer 14 is also square, the sealing material 25 is disposed in a frame shape outside the liquid crystal layer 14. Here, as the sealing material 25, for example, an epoxy resin, an ultraviolet curable resin, etc. can be applied.

[0037] [Flexible Printed Wiring Board] In order to make electrical connections between the first electrode 22A and the second electrode 22B and the outside, a flexible printed wiring board 18 is disposed. The flexible printed wiring board 18 can be connected, for example, as shown in FIG. 2, by being disposed between the first electrode 22A and the second electrode 22B in a region where the first electrode 22A and the second electrode 22B do not sandwich the liquid crystal layer 14. Note that the flexible printed wiring board 18 is not limited to the form shown in FIG. 2. For example, it may be in a form not sandwiched between the first electrode 22A and the second electrode 22B, or may be in a form connected to only one of the first electrode 22A and the second electrode 22B.

[0038] Returning to FIG. 1, the first glass plate 33A and the second glass plate 33B are plate glasses disposed on the front and back surfaces of the laminated glass 1, respectively. In the present embodiment, both the first glass plate 33A and the second glass plate 33B use plate glasses having a thickness of 2 mm. In the following description, the first glass plate 33A and the second glass plate 33B are described as flat glass, but they may be curved glass or glass plates configured with 3D curves. Also, the first glass plate 33A and the second glass plate 33B are configured to have an outer shape larger than that of the liquid crystal film 10.

[0039] In this embodiment, the first intermediate film forming sheet 31A and the second intermediate film forming sheet 31B are sheets made of PVB (polyvinyl butyral) resin with a thickness of 760 μm. The first intermediate film forming sheet 31A bonds the first glass plate 33A and the liquid crystal film 10. Similarly, the second intermediate film forming sheet 31B bonds the second glass plate 33B and the liquid crystal film 10. In the state where the laminated glass 1 is completed, the first intermediate film forming sheet 31A and the second intermediate film forming sheet 31B respectively constitute the first intermediate film and the second intermediate film. Therefore, in the state where the laminated glass 1 is completed, the first intermediate film forming sheet 31A and the second intermediate film forming sheet 31B can be regarded as the first intermediate film 31A and the second intermediate film 31B, respectively. Note that as materials for the first intermediate film forming sheet 31A and the second intermediate film forming sheet 31B, EVA (ethylene vinyl acetate copolymer), PET (polyethylene terephthalate), COP (cyclic olefin polymer), etc. may be used.

[0040] The spacer 32 is disposed in at least a part of the region sandwiched between the first glass plate 33A and the second glass plate 33B and in the region where the liquid crystal film 10 is not disposed. Therefore, the spacer 32 is disposed at a position in the same plane as the liquid crystal film 10 and can fill the void where the liquid crystal film 10 is not disposed. It is desirable that the spacer 32 is thicker than the liquid crystal film 10. Also, if the spacer 32 is made of the same material as the first intermediate film forming sheet 31A and the second intermediate film forming sheet 31B, the bonding strength with the first intermediate film forming sheet 31A and the second intermediate film forming sheet 31B can be increased. In the form illustrated in FIG. 1, the spacer 32 is formed in a hollow square shape, the outer shape is the same as that of the first glass plate 33A and the second glass plate 33B, and the inner cut-out shape is configured to be equivalent to the outer shape of the liquid crystal film 10. Therefore, the spacer 32 is disposed so as to fill the void where the liquid crystal film 10 is not disposed without leaving any void. Details regarding the dimensional relationship between the spacer 32 and the liquid crystal film 10, the material of the spacer 32, and the shape and arrangement of the spacer 32 will be described later.

[0041] The tilt mitigation member 34 is a member that mitigates the relative tilt between the first glass plate 33A and the second glass plate 33B in the laminate 30 caused by the thickness of the flexible printed wiring board 18. The tilt mitigation member 34 is disposed, for example, at a position facing the flexible printed wiring board 18 with the liquid crystal film 10 interposed therebetween, as shown in FIG. 1. This arrangement position of the tilt mitigation member 34 is an example, and it may be disposed at an optimal position according to the size and shape of the laminated glass 1. Further, it is desirable that the thickness of the tilt mitigation member 34 be the same as that of the flexible printed wiring board 18. Furthermore, it is desirable that the tilt mitigation member 34 be made of the same or a similar material as the flexible printed wiring board 18.

[0042] Next, a method for manufacturing the laminated glass 1 will be described. FIG. 3 is a flowchart for explaining a method for manufacturing the laminated glass 1. FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing the laminate arrangement step in FIG. 3 in more detail. The manufacturing of the laminated glass 1 starts with performing a laminate arrangement step in step (hereinafter simply referred to as "S") 10. This laminate arrangement step will be described with reference to FIG. 4.

[0043] In S11, the second glass plate 33B is arranged (second glass plate arrangement step). When using the second applicator plate 41B described later, the second glass plate 33B is arranged on top of the second applicator plate 41B.

[0044] In S12, the second intermediate film forming sheet 31B is arranged on the second glass plate 33B (second intermediate film forming sheet arrangement step).

[0045] In S13, the liquid crystal film 10 is placed on the second intermediate film forming sheet 31B (liquid crystal film placement step). Here, in this embodiment, since the flexible printed wiring board 18 is already connected to the liquid crystal film 10, the flexible printed wiring board 18 is also placed in this S13 (flexible printed wiring board placement step).

[0046] In S14, the inclination relaxation member 34 is placed at the predetermined position described above (inclination relaxation member placement step).

[0047] In S15, the spacer 32 is placed on the second intermediate film forming sheet 31B and at a position where the liquid crystal film 10 is not placed. Note that the spacer 32 overlaps with the flexible printed wiring board 18 and the inclination relaxation member 34, but since the spacer 32 is deformed by a subsequent pressing process or the like, in this embodiment, there is no problem with the overlap as it is.

[0048] In S16, the first intermediate film forming sheet 31A is placed on the liquid crystal film 10 and the spacer 32 (first intermediate film forming sheet placement step).

[0049] In S17, the first glass plate 33A is placed on the first intermediate film forming sheet 31A (first glass plate placement step). By the above steps, the placement (temporary lamination) of the laminate 30 is completed.

[0050] FIG. 5 is a diagram for explaining a laminate support structure 50 configured in the manufacturing process of the laminated glass 1. Since the members of the laminate 30 are not fixed to each other, there is a risk of positional deviation during the manufacturing process as it is. Further, since the laminated glass 1 of this embodiment has a configuration in which the liquid crystal film 10 is sandwiched, it is necessary to apply pressure evenly to the first glass plate 33A and the second glass plate 33B in the pressing process described later. Therefore, in this embodiment, a laminate support structure 50 that can stably hold the laminate 30 during the manufacturing process is configured.

[0051] The laminate support structure 50 of the present embodiment includes a laminate 30, a first contact plate 41A, a second contact plate 41B, and a support 43.

[0052] The first contact plate 41A and the second contact plate 41B are members arranged to sandwich the laminate 30 from above and below. For the first contact plate 41A and the second contact plate 41B of the present embodiment, glass having the same thickness as or greater than that of the first glass plate 33A and the second glass plate 33B may be used. The main purpose of using glass with a greater thickness for the first contact plate 41A and the second contact plate 41B than that of the first glass plate 33A and the second glass plate 33B is to prevent the first glass plate 33A and the second glass plate 33B from bending during pressurization. Therefore, the first contact plate 41A and the second contact plate 41B are not limited to glass and may be constituted by other members. When the rigidity of the first glass plate 33A and the second glass plate 33B is sufficiently high, the first contact plate 41A and the second contact plate 41B may be omitted.

[0053] The support 43 is a frame-shaped member arranged along the outer periphery of the laminate 30. The support 43 is constituted by a material having higher rigidity than the first intermediate film forming sheet 31A and the second intermediate film forming sheet 31B in the pressurization process described later. In the present embodiment, an aluminum square tube is used. In addition, the height of the support 43 needs to be within an appropriate range (the height difference is within a predetermined value) with respect to the height obtained by stacking the laminate 30, the first contact plate 41A, and the second contact plate 41B. When manufacturing laminated glass without using the first contact plate 41A and the second contact plate 41B, the height of the support 43 needs to be within an appropriate range when compared with the height of the laminate 30.

[0054] Although an example in which the support 43 is a member each having a frame shape has been shown, the present invention is not limited thereto, and a partially decomposable configuration may be adopted, and a configuration that facilitates attachment and detachment around the laminate 30 may be used.

[0055] Returning to FIG. 3, in S20, a support 43 is disposed around the laminate 30 (support disposition step).

[0056] In S30, a vacuum process is performed to make the inside of the laminate in a vacuum state. In the present embodiment, this vacuum process and the subsequent pressurization process are performed by a method called pre-lamination processing using a vacuum laminator. FIG. 6 is a diagram for explaining the outline of pre-lamination processing using a vacuum laminator. In pre-lamination processing using a vacuum laminator, a pressure vessel 61 having two spaces, a first chamber 61A and a second chamber 61B, is used. A silicon rubber sheet 64 is provided at the boundary between the first chamber 61A and the second chamber 61B, and the space between the first chamber 61A and the second chamber 61B is kept airtight. Further, ventilation holes 62 and 63 are provided in the first chamber 61A and the second chamber 61B, respectively, and each is independently connected to an external air pump. Therefore, the first chamber 61A and the second chamber 61B can control the degree of independently reducing the pressure of their respective spaces. Further, a heater is built in the bottom surface of the first chamber 61A, and the workpiece in the first chamber 61A can be heated.

[0057] In this S30, the laminate support structure 50 is disposed in the first chamber 61A, and both the first chamber 61A and the second chamber 61B are made in a vacuum state to remove the air remaining in the laminate support structure 50. The vacuum process of the present embodiment was performed at room temperature.

[0058] Returning to FIG. 3, in S40, pressure is applied to the laminate 30 together with the laminate support structure 50 (pressurization step). Here, the pressurization step is performed with the laminate 30 heated. In the present embodiment, the laminate 30 was heated together with the laminate support structure 50. Further, the pressurization step is performed at a pressure of 0.5 atm or less. This pressurization step of S40 is continuously performed following the vacuum step of S30, and is carried out with the laminate support structure 50 kept in a vacuum state inside the first chamber 61A of the pressure vessel 61 shown above. In the pressurization step, the first chamber 61A is maintained in a vacuum state, and the inside of the second chamber 61B is pressurized so that the differential pressure between the first chamber 61A and the second chamber 61B matches the pressure to be applied to the laminate 30. For example, when applying 0.5 atm to the laminate 30, the suction inside the second chamber 61B is suppressed or stopped so that air equivalent to 0.5 atm flows into the second chamber 61B.

[0059] FIG. 7 is a diagram schematically showing the state of the silicone rubber sheet 64 in the pressurization step. When air is sent into the second chamber 61B and pressure is applied from the second chamber 61B to the first chamber 61A, the silicone rubber sheet 64 is pushed toward the first chamber 61A by this pressure, and the silicone rubber sheet 64 adheres closely to the laminate support structure 50, and pressure is also applied to the laminate support structure 50. In the pressurization step of this embodiment, the state of ±10°C of the Tg of the first intermediate film forming sheet 31A and the second intermediate film forming sheet 31B and 0.5 atm was maintained. When the pressurization step is completed, the pre-lamination as the laminated glass is completed.

[0060] In S50, an autoclave step is performed. In this autoclave step, the laminate 30 after the pre-lamination is transferred to a pressure vessel for the autoclave, and the laminate 30 is placed in a high-pressure and high-temperature environment for a predetermined time to strengthen the bonding as the laminated glass and increase the strength. In this embodiment, the laminate 30 after pre-lamination (after the pressurization step) was placed in an environment of 120°C and 8 atm as the autoclave step. When the autoclave step is completed, the laminated glass 1 is completed. Incidentally, if necessary, the following cutting step can also be performed.

[0061] In S60, a cutting step is performed to cut a part of the outer periphery of the laminate 30 (laminated glass 1) after the autoclave step is completed. Note that this cutting step may not be performed.

[0062] Next, the spacer 32 will be described in more detail. FIG. 8 is a diagram summarizing the experimental results of examining the influence of the height relationship between the spacer 32 and the liquid crystal film 10 on the prelamination result. The experiment shown in FIG. 8 is an experiment in which the value obtained by subtracting the height of the liquid crystal film 10 from the height of the spacer 32 made of a PVB interlayer film (height difference) is changed. Other conditions are kept constant as described above. The size of the test piece (laminated glass) used in the experiment is a square with a side length of 100 mm. The content of the determination is the presence or absence of liquid crystal deviation, the presence or absence of bubbles in the liquid crystal film 10, and the adhesion state between the liquid crystal film 10 and the interlayer film (the first interlayer film forming sheet 31A and the second interlayer film forming sheet 31B). Note that the occurrence of bubbles here refers to a state where a space is formed, regardless of whether it is a vacuum state or contains gas. "excellent" in the determination result indicates that no liquid crystal deviation occurs or no bubbles are generated in the cell, "good" occurs very rarely in multiple experiments, and "bad" occurs frequently. The determination regarding the adhesion state is made after the autoclave process. "excellent" in the determination result indicates that a good adhesion state is maintained, "good" has very rare adhesion failure in multiple experiments, and "bad" has frequent adhesion failure. In addition, in the determination results in this specification including the determination results in FIG. 8, the determination results of "excellent", "good", and "bad" are used, but in any case, the determination is made according to the above-mentioned criteria. Also, the determination results of "excellent" and "good" are usable as products, while "bad" is not usable as a product.

[0063] From the results of FIG. 8, it is desirable that the height (thickness) of the spacer 32 be equal to or greater than the height (thickness) of the liquid crystal film 10. Also, the value obtained by subtracting the height of the liquid crystal film 10 from the height of the spacer 32 (height difference) is desirably 0 mm or more and +0.90 mm or less. More preferably, the value obtained by subtracting the height of the liquid crystal film 10 from the height of the spacer 32 (height difference) is desirably +0.12 mm.

[0064] FIG. 9 is a diagram summarizing the experimental results of examining the influence of the material of the spacer 32 on the prelamination result. The experiment shown in FIG. 9 is an experiment in which the material of the spacer 32 is changed. Other conditions are kept constant as described above. The value obtained by subtracting the height of the liquid crystal film 10 from the height of the spacer 32 (height difference) was set to +0.12 mm. As the material of the spacer 32 used in the experiment, a PVB interlayer film of the same material as the first intermediate film forming sheet 31A and the second intermediate film forming sheet 31B, an EVA interlayer film that can be used as a different interlayer film, a PET substrate, and a COP substrate were used. From the results of FIG. 9, it was confirmed that any of the above-described materials, namely, the PVB interlayer film, the EVA interlayer film, the PET substrate, and the COP substrate, can be used as the spacer 32 in the product because none of the determination results of the liquid crystal deviation, the in-cell bubbles, and the adhesion between the cell and the interlayer film include a "bad" determination result. More desirably, a PVB interlayer film or an EVA interlayer film may be used as the material of the spacer 32.

[0065] FIG. 10A is a diagram summarizing the experimental results of examining the influence of the shape and arrangement of the spacer 32 formed of the PVB interlayer film on the prelamination result. The experiment shown in FIG. 10A is an experiment in which the shape and arrangement of the spacer 32 are changed. Other conditions are kept constant as described above. The value obtained by subtracting the height of the liquid crystal film 10 from the height of the spacer 32 (height difference) was set to +0.12 mm. Figure 10B is a diagram summarizing the experimental results of examining the influence of the shape and arrangement of the spacer 32 formed of a PET substrate on the pre-lamination result. In the experiment of Figure 10B, the same conditions as those in Figure 10A were used except for the different materials. As combinations of the shape and arrangement of the spacer 32, experiments were conducted on the seven forms described in Figures 10A and 10B. These forms are shown in Figures 11 to 17.

[0066] Figure 11 is a diagram showing the arrangement of the spacer 32 in Form 1-1. As shown in Figure 11, Form 1-1 is a form in which a U-shaped spacer 32 surrounding the entire outer periphery of the liquid crystal film 10 is arranged. Figure 12 is a diagram showing the arrangement of the spacer 32 in Form 1-2. As shown in Figure 12, Form 1-2 is a form in which four linear spacers 32 are arranged. Figure 13 is a diagram showing the arrangement of the spacer 32 in Form 1-3. As shown in Figure 13, Form 1-3 is a form in which two linear spacers 32 are arranged on two opposite sides sandwiching the liquid crystal film 10. Figure 14 is a diagram showing the arrangement of the spacer 32 in Form 1-4. As shown in Figure 14, Form 1-4 is a form in which one linear spacer 32 is arranged. Figure 15 is a diagram showing the arrangement of the spacer 32 in Form 1-5. As shown in Figure 15, Form 1-5 is a form in which two L-shaped spacers 32 are arranged. Figure 16 is a diagram showing the arrangement of the spacer 32 in Form 1-6. As shown in Figure 16, Form 1-6 is a form in which one L-shaped spacer 32 is arranged. Figure 17 is a diagram showing the arrangement of the spacer 32 in Form 1-7. As shown in Figure 17, Form 1-7 is a form in which a rectangular spacer 32 is arranged while surrounding the entire outer periphery of the liquid crystal film 10, excluding the position of the flexible printed wiring board 18.

[0067] From the results of FIGS. 10A and 10B, it can be confirmed that it is desirable to arrange the spacers 32 on at least two opposite sides sandwiching the liquid crystal film 10. Further, it is more desirable that the spacers 32 are arranged so as to entirely surround the outer periphery of the liquid crystal film 10. Also, in the case of the PVB interlayer film in FIG. 10A, it can be confirmed that it is more desirable to arrange the spacers 32 evenly rather than preventing overlap at the position of the flexible printed wiring board 18 as in Forms 1-7. On the other hand, in the case of the PET base material in FIG. 10B, since the PET base material is less likely to deform even when heated, it is desirable to arrange it so as not to overlap at the position of the flexible printed wiring board 18. Also, from the results of FIG. 10A, Forms 1-4 and 1-6 include the determination result of "bad" and thus cannot be used, but for the other forms, since they do not include the determination result of "bad", it was confirmed that they can be used as products.

[0068] Next, the occupancy rate of the interlayer film in the laminated glass will be described. Here, the occupancy rate is the area ratio of the region where the liquid crystal film 10 and the spacers 32 are arranged in the region sandwiched between the first glass plate 33A and the second glass plate 33B, expressed as a percentage. Note that the value of this occupancy rate is the value based on the member dimensions before pre-lamination. Ideally, it can be said that it is desirable to set it to 100%. However, if it is set to 100%, considering dimensional variations and assembly variations, the possibility of the spacers 32 overlapping with the liquid crystal film 10 increases. Therefore, the occupancy rate was investigated as a parameter to determine how much gap should be provided between the spacers 32 and the liquid crystal film 10.

[0069] FIG. 18 is a diagram summarizing the experimental results of examining the influence of the occupancy rate of the spacers 32 on the pre-lamination results. FIG. 19 is a diagram for explaining each form of FIG. 18. Note that FIG. 19 shows a state immediately after the placement process, that is, a state where each layer is simply stacked and placed, and since heat has not been applied yet, each layer is not melted or joined. This is a diagram schematically shown for the purpose of explanation and does not show the laminated state of the laminated glass 1 after manufacturing. The experiment shown in FIG. 18 is an experiment in which the occupancy rate of the spacer 32 is changed. The determination of the intermediate film bubbles in FIG. 18 is the result of determining the generation status of the bubbles remaining in the intermediate film portion. The determination criteria are the same as those for the bubbles in the cell.

[0070] Form 2-1 is a form in which the spacer 32 is not provided, and the occupancy rate is 99%. In this form 2-1, according to the above definition of the occupancy rate, since the spacer 32 is not arranged, the occupancy rate should be a much lower value. However, as shown in FIG. 19(a), since the second intermediate film forming sheet 31B is joined to the first intermediate film forming sheet 31A to substantially fill the space, the occupancy rate is calculated as 99% assuming that the triangular voids shown in FIG. 19(a) remain.

[0071] Form 2-2 is a form in which the gap between the spacer 32 and the liquid crystal film 10 is 0, and the occupancy rate is 100%. FIG. 19(b) shows this form 2-2. Forms 2-3 and 2-4 are forms in which the gap between the spacer 32 and the liquid crystal film 10 is 0, and the occupancy rate is 100%, but there is an overlap with the liquid crystal film 10. FIG. 19(d) shows form 2-3, and FIG. 19(e) shows form 2-4. Form 2-5 is a form in which the gap between the spacer 32 and the liquid crystal film 10 is 1 mm, and the occupancy rate is 91%. FIG. 19(c) shows this form 2-5.

[0072] In addition, in order to greatly reduce the occupancy rate, an object with a changed shape of the liquid crystal film 10 was produced and an experiment was conducted for comparison. Form 2-6 is a form in which the occupancy rate is reduced by setting the corner R of the liquid crystal film 10 to 20 mm, and the occupancy rate is 85%. Forms 2-7 are forms in which the shape of the liquid crystal film 10 is circular with a radius R = 40 mm and the occupancy rate is decreased, and the occupancy rate is 69%. Note that the shapes of the spacers 32 are all in the shape of the Chinese character "ロ".

[0073] As shown in Fig. 18, when the gap between the spacer 32 and the liquid crystal film 10 is set to 0 and the occupancy rate is 100%, good results can be obtained when both are properly arranged (Form 2-2), but if they overlap, the result is very bad (Form 2-3, Form 2-4). On the other hand, for the forms in which the occupancy rate has dropped too much (Form 2-6 and Form 2-7), the results are also very bad. Therefore, it can be said that it is desirable to arrange the spacer 32 with an appropriate gap from the liquid crystal film 10 as in Form 2-5. More specifically, it is desirable that the occupancy rate is 91% or more and the gap between the spacer 32 and the liquid crystal film 10 is 1 mm. In this case, before prelamination, there is a gap between the spacer 32 and the liquid crystal film 10, but after prelamination, the first intermediate film forming sheet 31A and the second intermediate film forming sheet 31B partially enter this gap, and the spacer 32 also enters this gap, filling the gap.

[0074] As described above, in this embodiment, by arranging the spacer 32, the success rate of prelamination is dramatically improved. The reason for this will be explained. The liquid crystal film 10 has a liquid crystal layer formed therein, and the laminated glass sandwiching the liquid crystal film 10 will sandwich a soft material that is impossible with conventional laminated glass. Therefore, in the pressurizing process of pre-laminating, if there is any deviation in the way of applying pressure, even slightly, the liquid crystal layer will flow under the influence, and liquid crystal accumulation and voids will occur in the liquid crystal film 10. In particular, in the pre-lamination process using a vacuum laminator, it is conceivable that the silicon rubber sheet 64 presses the outer peripheral portion of the laminate 30 during pressurization, that is, the outer peripheral portion of the first glass plate 33A or the second glass plate 33B, causing the first glass plate 33A or the second glass plate 33B to be distorted.

[0075] In this embodiment, by arranging the spacers 32 around, even if a pressing force is applied to the outer peripheral portion of the first glass plate 33A or the second glass plate 33B, the presence of the spacers 32 can suppress the deformation of the first glass plate 33A or the second glass plate 33B, and it is possible to apply pressure evenly to the first glass plate 33A and the second glass plate 33B. Therefore, it is possible to appropriately perform pre-lamination without causing unnecessary flow or the like in the liquid crystal layer. Accordingly, a method for manufacturing laminated glass capable of reducing the generation of liquid crystal accumulation and voids can be provided.

[0076] Also, in this embodiment, since the sealing material 25 is arranged so as to surround the periphery of the liquid crystal layer 14 of the liquid crystal film 10 and the spacers 32 are arranged around the liquid crystal film 10, in plan view, the outside of the sealing material 25 is surrounded by the spacers 32. As will be described later, when the sealing material 25 is irradiated with sunlight for a long time, depending on the material of the sealing material 25, the sealing material 25 may deteriorate. If the sealing material 25 deteriorates, its sealing function may decrease, and the liquid crystal layer 14 may leak out. However, in this embodiment, since the outside of the sealing material 25 is surrounded by the spacer 32 in a plan view, the spacer 32 can block light from the side direction of the laminated glass 1 so that it does not directly hit the sealing material 25, thereby preventing deterioration of the sealing material 25. This effect is particularly noticeable when the spacers 32 are arranged around the entire periphery of the liquid crystal film 10, i.e., when the spacers 32 are arranged around the entire outside of the sealing material 25, but the effect can also be obtained if the spacers 32 are arranged around the periphery of the liquid crystal film 10, even if they are partially interrupted.

[0077] Although the above-mentioned experiment was conducted with a side length of 100 mm, it has been confirmed using laminated glass with a side length of 300 mm that good pre-lamination results can be obtained if the support is positioned in the appropriate position as described above. From these results, it has been confirmed that the same can be achieved with laminated glass of even larger sizes.

[0078] Second embodiment 20 is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which the laminated glass 1A of the second embodiment is attached to a frame F. In this second embodiment and a third embodiment described later, the laminated glass 1A (1B) is described as being fixed to a frame-shaped frame (window frame) F. The laminated glass 1A of the second embodiment has a configuration in which necessary components are further added for practical use, but the basic configuration is similar to that of the laminated glass 1 of the first embodiment. Therefore, the same reference numerals are used to designate parts that perform the same functions as those of the first embodiment described above, and duplicated explanations will be omitted as appropriate. The cross section of Figure 20 shows a state in which the laminated glass 1A is attached to a frame F, cut near an edge of the laminated glass 1A. The laminated glass 1A has the layer structure shown in Figure 20 over its entire periphery, and is attached to the frame F with an adhesive 80. When attaching the laminated glass 1A to a vehicle, for example, the vehicle body corresponds to the frame F. When attaching the laminated glass 1A to a building, for example, the window frame corresponds to the frame F. Also, in FIG. 20, the lower side is shown as the inside of the vehicle or the inside of the room, and the upper side is shown as the outside of the vehicle or the outside of the room, and these are shown as "INSIDE" and "OUTSIDE" in the figure.

[0079] The laminated glass 1A of the second embodiment is different from the laminated glass 1 of the first embodiment in that it further includes a light-shielding portion 70A. The light-shielding portion 70A is made of a material having a function of shielding light with at least wavelengths in the ultraviolet light region, and shields the light from the outside reaching the sealing material 25. The light-shielding portion 70A is arranged in a full circumference along the outer periphery of the laminated glass. Since the light-shielding portion 70A only needs to exhibit a light-shielding function, it may be configured as a light-absorbing portion that shields light by a light-absorbing action, or may be configured as a light-reflecting portion that shields light by a light-reflecting action.

[0080] The light-shielding portion 70A of the second embodiment is arranged from the end face of the laminated glass 1A to a position inside the sealing material 25. Also, the light-shielding portion 70A of the second embodiment is arranged at a position between the liquid crystal film 10 and the first glass plate 33A. More specifically, in the present embodiment, the light-shielding portion 70A is provided between the first glass plate 33A and the first intermediate film 31A. Any specific form and specific manufacturing method for forming the light-shielding portion 70A may be used. For example, the light-shielding portion 70A may be formed by printing on the first glass plate 33A or on the first intermediate film 31A. When forming the light-shielding portion 70A by printing on the first glass plate 33A, for example, it can be formed by printing and drying a liquid black ceramic. Also, when forming the light-shielding portion 70A by printing on the first intermediate film 31A, for example, carbon black or the like can be used as the ink. Furthermore, the light-shielding portion 70A may be configured by disposing a light-shielding film or the like between the first glass plate 33A and the first intermediate film 31A. When the light-shielding portion 70A is formed by disposing a light-shielding film or the like, for example, a PET substrate colored black or the like can be used as the material of the light-shielding portion 70A. Note that when the light-shielding film or the like is disposed and configured between the first glass plate 33A and the first intermediate film 31A, it is assumed that the adhesive force between the light-shielding film or the like and the first glass plate 33A may not be sufficient. In such a case, an intermediate film or the like may be further disposed between the light-shielding film or the like and the first glass plate 33A.

[0081] As shown in FIG. 20, the laminated glass 1A is attached to the frame F such that the first glass plate 33A faces the outside of the vehicle or the outside of the house, and the second glass plate 33B faces the inside of the vehicle or the inside of the house. Here, the frame F of the second embodiment extends to the inside of the laminated glass 1A beyond the position of the sealing material 25. Therefore, light reaching the sealing material 25 from the end portion or the inside of the laminated glass 1A (inside the vehicle or inside the house) is blocked by the frame F. Also, in terms of appearance, the frame F blocks the view and hides the sealing material 25 so that it cannot be seen from the inside of the vehicle or the inside of the house. On the other hand, regarding the light traveling from the outside of the vehicle or the outside of the house toward the sealing material 25, if the light-shielding portion 70A is not disposed, sunlight or the like will directly irradiate the sealing material 25 from the outside of the vehicle or the outside of the house. When the sealing material 25 is irradiated with sunlight for a long time, depending on the material of the sealing material 25, the sealing material 25 may deteriorate. If the sealing material 25 deteriorates, its sealing function may decline, and there is also a risk that the liquid crystal layer 14 may leak out. Therefore, in the present embodiment, by disposing the light-shielding portion 70A at the above-described position, direct irradiation of light onto the sealing material 25 is prevented, and deterioration of the sealing material 25 is prevented. Also, the light-shielding portion 70A can improve the design by hiding the sealing material 25 from the outside of the vehicle or the outside of the house.

[0082] As described above, according to the second embodiment, it is possible to prevent light from directly irradiating the sealing material 25, prevent deterioration of the sealing material 25, and improve the design property. Further, even when the frame F does not have light-shielding properties, the spacer 32 is arranged so that light from the side direction of the laminated glass can be blocked from directly hitting the sealing material 25, and deterioration of the sealing material 25 can be prevented.

[0083] (Third Embodiment) FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional view showing a usage state in which the laminated glass 1B of the third embodiment is attached to the frame F. The laminated glass 1B of the third embodiment is different from that of the second embodiment in that it includes light-shielding portions 70A and 70B, but the basic configuration is the same as that of the laminated glass 1A of the second embodiment. Therefore, parts that perform the same functions as those of the second embodiment described above are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant descriptions are omitted as appropriate.

[0084] In the third embodiment, two (two-layer) light-shielding portions, i.e., a light-shielding portion 70A and a light-shielding portion 70B, are provided. The light-shielding portion 70A of the third embodiment is configured in the same manner as the light-shielding portion 70A of the second embodiment. The light-shielding portion 70B of the third embodiment is arranged at a position between the liquid crystal film 10 and the second glass plate 33B. More specifically, in the present embodiment, the light-shielding portion 70B is provided between the second glass plate 33B and the second intermediate film 31B. Other configurations, formation methods, etc. of the light-shielding portion 70B are the same as those of the light-shielding portion 70A of the first embodiment.

[0085] As described above, in the third embodiment, the light-shielding portions (70A, 70B) are disposed at both the position between the liquid crystal film 10 and the first glass plate 33A and the position between the liquid crystal film 10 and the second glass plate 33B. Therefore, it is possible to block the light from reaching the sealing material 25 from either the front or the back direction of the laminated glass 1A. Also, the sealing material 25 can be hidden when viewed from either side, and the design can be improved. Thus, for example, as shown in FIG. 21, even when the frame F reaches only up to the outside of the sealing material 25, the light reaching the sealing material 25 from the inside of the vehicle or the inside of the room can be blocked. Therefore, the laminated glass 1B of the third embodiment can prevent the deterioration of the sealing material 25 and can hide the sealing material 25 so that it cannot be seen. Further, if the laminated glass 1B is flat, it can be used without distinguishing between the front and the back, and the workability can be improved. Also, even when the frame F does not have light-shielding properties, the spacer 32 is disposed so that the light from the side direction of the laminated glass can be blocked from directly hitting the sealing material 25, and the deterioration of the sealing material 25 can be prevented.

[0086] (Fourth Embodiment) FIG. 22 is a cross-sectional view showing the vicinity of the end of the laminated glass 1C of the fourth embodiment. In this fourth embodiment and the fifth embodiment described later, the laminated glass 1C (1D) used for a slidable window of a vehicle or the like will be described as an example. The cross-section shown in FIG. 22 shows the vicinity of the end of the exposed portion away from the frame of the vehicle or the like in the open state of the laminated glass 1C used as a slidable window. The laminated glass 1C of the fourth embodiment has a configuration in which necessary components are further added in actual use, but the basic configuration is the same as that of the laminated glass 1 of the first embodiment. Therefore, the parts that perform the same functions as those in the first embodiment described above are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the overlapping descriptions are omitted as appropriate.

[0087] The laminated glass 1C of the fourth embodiment is different from the laminated glass 1 of the first embodiment in that it includes a light-shielding portion 70C. The light-shielding portion 70C is made of a material having a function of shielding light with a wavelength in at least the ultraviolet light region, and shields external light reaching the sealing material 25. The light-shielding portion 70C covers the end face of the laminated glass 1C and is disposed so as to sandwich the laminated glass 1C from the end face to a position inside the sealing material 25. Further, the position where the light-shielding portion 70C is disposed is a position along the outer periphery of the laminated glass, and is disposed at least along an end portion exposed when the window is in an open state. Note that the light-shielding portion 70C may not be provided for a portion hidden inside the vehicle body or the like near an end portion on the side to which the window opening / closing mechanism is connected. Since the light-shielding portion 70C only needs to exhibit a light-shielding function, it may be configured as a light absorption portion that shields light by a light absorption action, or may be configured as a light reflection portion that shields light by a light reflection action.

[0088] Any specific form and specific manufacturing method for forming the light-shielding portion 70C may be used. For example, the light-shielding portion 70C may be configured by fitting and adhesively fixing resin molded parts, may be configured by applying a resin, paint, or the like, or may be configured by laminating a tape, sheet, or the like.

[0089] According to the fourth embodiment, since the laminated glass 1C includes the light-shielding portion 70C, it is possible to shield the sealing material 25 from direct light irradiation, and prevent deterioration of the sealing material 25. Further, by disposing the spacer 32, the sealing material 25 can be disposed inside the laminated glass and separated from the side surface, so that light from the side surface direction of the laminated glass can be blocked from directly hitting the sealing material 25, and deterioration of the sealing material 25 can be prevented.

[0090] (Fifth Embodiment) FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional view showing the vicinity of an end portion of the laminated glass 1D of the fifth embodiment. In actual use, the laminated glass 1D of the fifth embodiment has a configuration with additional necessary components, but its basic configuration is the same as that of the laminated glass 1B of the third embodiment. Therefore, parts that perform the same functions as those described in the above-mentioned third embodiment are given the same reference numerals, and overlapping explanations are omitted as appropriate.

[0091] The laminated glass 1D of the fifth embodiment corresponds to a form in which a light-shielding portion 70D is further added to the laminated glass 1B of the third embodiment. Also, the laminated glass 1D of the fifth embodiment is different from the laminated glass 1B of the third embodiment in that it is used in a slidable opening and closing form. The light-shielding portion 70D has basically the same configuration as the light-shielding portion 70C of the fourth embodiment, but is different from the light-shielding portion 70C of the fourth embodiment in that it is disposed sandwiching the laminated glass 1D only up to a position outside the sealing material 25 from the end face.

[0092] The light-shielding portion 70C of the fourth embodiment described above is provided at the end of the laminated glass, but when the window is in the open state, it becomes a conspicuous position. Therefore, from the viewpoint of improving the designability, there may be a case where the light-shielding portion 70C is to be made smaller. In such a case, as shown in FIG. 23, the light-shielding portion 70D may not reach up to the sealing material 25. In such a case, as shown in FIG. 23, by arranging the light-shielding portions 70A and 70B together with the light-shielding portion 70D, the light reaching the sealing material 25 can be blocked, and deterioration of the sealing material 25 can be prevented. Also, by arranging the spacer 32, the sealing material 25 can be disposed inside the laminated glass, separated from the side surface, so that light from the side surface direction of the laminated glass can be blocked from directly hitting the sealing material 25, and deterioration of the sealing material 25 can be prevented.

[0093] (Modification) Without being limited to the embodiments described above, various modifications and changes are possible, and these are also within the scope of the present invention.

[0094] (1) In each embodiment, the VA mode liquid crystal film has been described, but the present invention is not limited thereto, and other modes capable of adjusting the light control amount by a potential difference may be used. For example, as the liquid crystal film other than the VA mode, a TN mode (twisted Nematic) may be used. In the TN mode, when no voltage is applied, the liquid crystal molecules are arranged horizontally, allowing light to pass through and the screen to be "white". As the voltage is gradually applied, the liquid crystal molecules stand up vertically, blocking the light and making the screen black.

[0095] (2) In each embodiment, the case where the liquid crystal cell is sandwiched between linear polarizing plates to form the liquid crystal film has been described, but the present invention is not limited thereto, and it can also be widely applied to the case where a liquid crystal film is formed by omitting the linear polarizing plate using a liquid crystal layer of a guest-host type liquid crystal.

[0096] (3) In the first embodiment, the inclination relaxation member 34 has been described by taking an example where it has a rectangular shape and is disposed at a position facing the flexible printed wiring board 18. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, a frame-shaped inclination relaxation member may be disposed, and the shape and arrangement of the inclination relaxation member can be appropriately changed.

[0097] (4) In the first embodiment, the example of using pre-lamination processing by a vacuum laminator has been described for the pressurization step. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the pressurization step may be performed using a thermal laminator, or the present invention is applicable even if it is a vacuum back method or a tube method.

[0098] (5) In the creation of the second to fifth embodiments, the configuration including the spacer 32 has been described by taking an example. However, the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, it may be a laminated glass in which the spacer 32 is omitted.

[0099] In addition, each embodiment and modification can be used in appropriate combination, but detailed description thereof is omitted. Further, the present invention is not limited by each of the embodiments described above.

Explanation of Reference Numerals

[0100] 1 Bonded glass 10 Liquid crystal film 12 First laminate for liquid crystal 13 Second laminate for liquid crystal 14 Liquid crystal layer 15 Liquid crystal cell 16 Linear polarizing plate 17 Linear polarizing plate 18 Flexible printed wiring board 21A Base material 21B Base material 22A First electrode 22B Second electrode 23A Alignment layer 23B Alignment layer 24 Spacer inside liquid crystal 25 Sealing material 30 Laminate 31A First intermediate film forming sheet (first intermediate film) 31B Second intermediate film forming sheet (second intermediate film) 32 Spacer 33A First glass plate 33B Second glass plate 34 Tilt relaxation member 41A First backing plate 41B Second backing plate 43 Support 50 Laminate support structure 61 Pressure vessel 61A First chamber 61B Second chamber 62 Vent hole 63 Vent hole 64 Silicon rubber sheet 70A, 70B, 70C, 70D Light-shielding part 80 Adhesive F Frame

Claims

1. A first glass plate, a first intermediate film, a liquid crystal film, a second intermediate film, and a second glass plate are laminated in this order, The liquid crystal film has a liquid crystal layer and a sealing material that seals the liquid crystal layer and is arranged so as to surround the periphery of the liquid crystal layer, The first glass plate and the second glass plate are formed with an outer shape larger than that of the liquid crystal film, Spacers are arranged in at least a part of the region sandwiched between the first glass plate and the second glass plate and in the region where the liquid crystal film is not arranged, The liquid crystal film has a sealing material for sealing the liquid crystal around the periphery away from the side surfaces of the first glass plate and the second glass plate, and is provided with a light-shielding portion along the outer periphery of the laminated glass for shielding light from the outside reaching the sealing material, The light-shielding portion includes a first light-shielding portion arranged on one side of the liquid crystal film, A second light-shielding portion arranged on the other side of the liquid crystal film, sandwiching the sealing material therebetween. Further, the light-shielding portion has a third light-shielding portion that covers the end face of the laminated glass and sandwiches the laminated glass from the end face to a position outside the sealing material, The first light-shielding portion and the second light-shielding portion are arranged from the end face to a position inside the sealing material, The liquid crystal film is provided with liquid crystal spacers to make the thickness of the liquid crystal layer constant, The liquid crystal film, A first laminate laminated in the order of a first base material, a first electrode, and a first alignment layer, A second laminate laminated in the order of a second base material, a second electrode, and a second alignment layer, And has, The liquid crystal layer is arranged between the first alignment layer and the second alignment layer, The liquid crystal spacers are arranged on at least one of the first alignment layer and the second alignment layer, laminated glass.

2. In the laminated glass according to Claim 1, The spacers are arranged so as to surround the entire outer periphery of the liquid crystal film, Laminated glass characterized by this.

3. In the laminated glass according to Claim 1, The height of the spacers is equal to or greater than the height of the liquid crystal film, Laminated glass characterized by this.

4. In the laminated glass according to Claim 1, The spacers are arranged adjacent to the liquid crystal film, Laminated glass characterized by this.

5. In the laminated glass according to Claim 1, The spacer is disposed at a distance from the liquid crystal film. A laminated glass characterized by the above. **Claim 6** In the laminated glass according to claim 5, at least one of the first intermediate film and the second intermediate film is partially inserted and disposed between the spacer and the liquid crystal film. A laminated glass characterized by the above. **Claim 7** A method for manufacturing a laminated glass using a laminate in which a liquid crystal film is sandwiched between a first glass plate and a second glass plate, the liquid crystal film having a liquid crystal layer and a sealing material disposed so as to seal the liquid crystal layer and surround the periphery of the liquid crystal layer at a position away from the side surfaces of the first glass plate and the second glass plate inward, and a light-shielding portion for shielding light from the outside reaching the sealing material is provided along the outer periphery of the laminated glass, the light-shielding portion including a first light-shielding portion disposed on one side of the liquid crystal film, a second light-shielding portion disposed on the other side of the liquid crystal film, sandwiching the sealing material therebetween, and further, the light-shielding portion has a third light-shielding portion that covers an end face of the laminated glass and sandwiches the laminated glass from the end face to a position outside the sealing material, the first light-shielding portion and the second light-shielding portion are disposed from the end face to a position inside the sealing material, the first glass plate and the second glass plate are formed to have an outer shape larger than that of the liquid crystal film, a spacer arranging step of arranging a spacer so as to surround the outside of the sealing material in a region sandwiched between the first glass plate and the second glass plate and at least a part of a region where the liquid crystal film is not disposed, in a plan view; a pressing step of pressing at least one plate surface of the first glass plate and the second glass plate in a state where the spacer is arranged. A method for manufacturing a laminated glass comprising the above steps. **Claim 8** In the method for manufacturing a laminated glass according to claim 7, the height of the spacer is equal to or greater than the height of the liquid crystal film. A method for manufacturing a laminated glass characterized by the above.

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