Light control member and laminated plate

Abstract

A light control member (20) includes a first member (30), a second member (40), a liquid crystal layer (50), a plurality of first bead spacers (60), and a plurality of second bead spacers (70). The first member (30) includes a first base material (31). The second member (40) includes a second base material (41) facing the first base material (31). The liquid crystal layer (50) is disposed between the first member (30) and the second member (40). The plurality of first bead spacers (60) and the plurality of second bead spacers (70) are disposed so as to maintain the thickness of the liquid crystal layer (50) between the first member (30) and the second member (40). The average particle diameter of the second bead spacers (70) is larger than the average particle diameter of the first bead spacers (60). The second bead spacers (70) have higher flexibility than the first bead spacers (60).

Description

Light control components and laminated plates

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a light control member and a laminate.

[0002] A light control component capable of adjusting visible light transmittance is known, as shown in Patent Document 1. The light control component shown in Patent Document 1 has, for example, a liquid crystal layer containing liquid crystal molecules. A light control component having a liquid crystal layer can change its visible light transmittance by applying a voltage. A light control component having a liquid crystal layer has the advantage that its visible light transmittance changes quickly. A light control component is used, for example, in the transparent portion of a partition member such as a window.

[0003] The liquid crystal layer is disposed between a pair of plate-like members having a base material. Bead spacers are further disposed between the pair of plate-like members. The bead spacers are in contact with the pair of plate-like members. The bead spacers maintain an appropriate thickness of the liquid crystal layer. The bead spacers suppress the movement of liquid crystal molecules in the liquid crystal layer.

[0004] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2018-5040

[0005] When a light-adjusting component is exposed to high temperatures, the liquid crystal layer expands due to the heat. This causes the gap between the bead spacers and the plate-like component to widen. This can cause liquid crystal molecules to move in the liquid crystal layer between the bead spacers and the plate-like component. If a light-adjusting component having a liquid crystal layer is positioned at an angle to the horizontal, gravity can cause the liquid crystal molecules to move in the liquid crystal layer and cause the liquid crystal molecules to become unevenly distributed on the lower side in the vertical direction. The unevenly distributed liquid crystal molecules are clearly visible from the outside of the light-adjusting component, which can damage the appearance of the light-adjusting component.

[0006] The present disclosure aims to prevent deterioration of the appearance of a light control component due to uneven distribution of liquid crystal molecules.

[0007] An embodiment of the present disclosure relates to the following [1] to

[20] .

[0008] [1] A dimming component comprising: a first component including a first substrate; a second component including a second substrate facing the first substrate; a liquid crystal layer disposed between the first component and the second component; and a plurality of first bead spacers and a plurality of second bead spacers disposed so as to maintain the thickness of the liquid crystal layer between the first component and the second component, wherein the average particle size of the second bead spacers is larger than the average particle size of the first bead spacers, and the second bead spacers are more flexible than the first bead spacers.

[0009] [2] A dimming element as described in [1], wherein when a load of up to 5 mN is applied to the first bead spacer and the second bead spacer using a 50 μm square flat indenter at a rate of 0.29 mN / s and the amount of deformation of the first bead spacer and the second bead spacer is measured, the ratio of the amount of deformation of the second bead spacer to the amount of deformation of the first bead spacer is 3.21 or more and 4.49 or less.

[0010] [3] A light-adjusting component comprising: a first member including a first substrate; a second member including a second substrate facing the first substrate; a liquid crystal layer disposed between the first member and the second member; and a plurality of first bead spacers and a plurality of second bead spacers disposed so as to maintain the thickness of the liquid crystal layer between the first member and the second member, wherein the average particle size of the second bead spacers is larger than the average particle size of the first bead spacers; and when a load of up to 5 mN is applied to the first bead spacers and the second bead spacers using a 50 μm square flat indenter at a rate of 0.29 mN / s and the amount of deformation of the first bead spacers and the second bead spacers is measured, the ratio of the amount of deformation of the second bead spacers to the amount of deformation of the first bead spacers is 3.21 or more and 4.49 or less.

[0011] [4] A dimming component described in any one of [1] to [3], wherein the amount of deformation of the second bead spacer measured by applying a load of up to 5 mN to the second bead spacer using a 50 μm square flat indenter at a rate of 0.29 mN / s is 2.38 μm or more and 3.32 μm or less.

[0012] [5] A light-adjusting component comprising: a first member including a first substrate; a second member including a second substrate facing the first substrate; a liquid crystal layer disposed between the first member and the second member; and a plurality of first bead spacers and a plurality of second bead spacers disposed so as to maintain the thickness of the liquid crystal layer between the first member and the second member, wherein the average particle size of the second bead spacers is larger than the average particle size of the first bead spacers; and the amount of deformation of the second bead spacers measured by applying a load of up to 5 mN at a rate of 0.29 mN / s using a 50 μm square flat indenter is 2.38 μm or more and 3.32 μm or less.

[0013] [6] A dimming element described in any one of [1] to [5], wherein when a load of 5 mN is applied to the second bead spacer using a 50 μm square flat indenter at a rate of 0.29 mN / s, the amount of deformation of the second bead spacer from the time the load reaches 5 mN to the time the load is maintained for 5 seconds is 0.04 μm or less.

[0014] [7] The dimming component according to any one of [1] to [6], wherein the average particle size of the second bead spacers is 110% or more and 130% or less of the average particle size of the first bead spacers.

[0015] [8] The light control component according to any one of [1] to [7], wherein the number of the second bead spacers is greater than the number of the first bead spacers.

[0016] [9] The light control component according to any one of [1] to [8], wherein the first bead spacer and the second bead spacer are black in color.

[0017]

[10] The light control component according to any one of [1] to [9], wherein the second bead spacers have adhesive properties.

[0018]

[11] A laminate comprising a first substrate and a second substrate facing each other, and a dimming element described in any one of [1] to

[10] arranged between the first substrate and the second substrate.

[0019]

[12] The laminate described in

[11] , further comprising a first bonding layer that bonds the first substrate and the dimming element to each other, and a second bonding layer that bonds the second substrate and the dimming element to each other.

[0020]

[13] The laminate described in

[12] , wherein the thickness of the first bonding layer and the second bonding layer is uniform within the plane.

[0021]

[14] The laminate described in

[12] or

[13] , wherein the first bonding layer and the second bonding layer are connected to each other by an insert material.

[0022]

[15] The laminated board according to

[14] , wherein the material of the insert is polyethylene terephthalate, polycarbonate or OCR.

[0023]

[16] A laminate described in

[12] or

[13] , in which a peripheral fixing member is provided on the outer periphery of the first substrate, the first bonding layer, the dimming member, the second bonding layer and the second substrate.

[0024]

[17] A laminate described in any one of

[12] to

[16] , wherein a gap layer is provided between the first bonding layer and the dimming member.

[0025]

[18] The laminated board according to

[17] , in which an anti-reflection layer is provided at a position facing the air gap layer.

[0026]

[19] The laminate according to

[18] , wherein the first substrate is colored glass.

[0027]

[20] The laminate according to

[17] , wherein the first substrate has an anti-reflection function.

[0028] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to prevent deterioration of the appearance of the light control component due to uneven distribution of liquid crystal molecules.

[0029] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a moving object having a light control member. FIG. 2 is a plan view showing a state in which the visible light transmittance of the light control member is adjusted to a high level. FIG. 3 is a plan view showing a state in which the visible light transmittance of the light control member is adjusted to a low level. FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the light control member taken along line IV-IV in FIG. 2. FIG. 5 is an enlarged view of the gap between the first and second members of the light control member at room temperature. FIG. 6 is an enlarged view of the gap between the first and second members of the light control member after heating to a high temperature. FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of a method for manufacturing a light control member. FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example of a method for manufacturing a light control member. FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of a method for manufacturing a light control member. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a method for manufacturing a light control member. FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of a method for manufacturing a light control member. FIG. 12 is a graph showing the relationship between the amount of deformation when a load is applied to the first bead spacer and the second bead spacer included in the light control members of the examples and the comparative examples. FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view showing a laminated board according to a first modified example. FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view showing a laminated board according to a second modified example. FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view showing a laminated board according to a third modified example. FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view showing a laminated board according to a fourth modified example. FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view showing another example of a laminated board according to the fourth modified example. FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view showing a laminated board according to a fifth modified example. FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view showing another example of a laminated board according to the fifth modified example. FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional view showing another example of a laminated board according to the fifth modified example. FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional view showing a laminated board according to a sixth modified example. FIG. 22 is a cross-sectional view showing another example of a laminated board according to the sixth modified example. FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional view showing another example of a laminated board according to the sixth modified example. FIG. 24 is a cross-sectional view showing a laminated board according to a seventh modified example. FIG. 25 is a cross-sectional view showing another example of a laminated board according to the seventh modified example. FIG. 26 is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing the gap between the first member and the second member of a conventional light control member at room temperature. FIG. 27 is an enlarged cross-sectional view showing the gap between the first member and the second member of a conventional light-adjusting member in a state where the member is heated to a high temperature.

[0030] An embodiment of the present disclosure will be described below with reference to the drawings. In the drawings attached to this specification, the scale and aspect ratios have been appropriately changed and exaggerated from those of the actual objects for the sake of convenience in illustration and understanding. Configurations shown in some drawings may be omitted in other drawings.

[0031] In this specification, terms such as "parallel," "orthogonal," and "identical," which specify shapes and geometric conditions and their degrees, as well as values ​​of lengths and angles, are not limited to their strict meanings but are interpreted to include a range of degrees within which similar functions can be expected.

[0032] In this specification, the normal direction of a plate-like member refers to the normal direction to the plate surface of the target plate-like member. Also, the "plate surface" refers to the surface that coincides with the target plate-like member when the target plate-like member is viewed overall and globally. The same applies when "plate" is read as "film" or "sheet," etc.

[0033] In this specification, when multiple upper limit value candidates and multiple lower limit value candidates are listed for a parameter, the parameter may be a numerical range that combines any one upper limit value candidate and any one lower limit value candidate.

[0034] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a mobile body 1 including a laminated plate 10 according to one embodiment. The laminated plate 10 can be used, for example, as a component for dividing a space. The laminated plate 10 is used as a transparent portion of a partition component, such as a window or windshield device for a mobile body such as an automobile, train, ship, or airplane, a window in the exterior or interior wall or door of a building, or a part of a partition. In the example shown in FIG. 1 , the laminated plate 10 is used as a sun visor for a vehicle. The laminated plate 10 may have any shape suitable for the component to which it is applied. The laminated plate 10 includes a light-controlling component 20 capable of adjusting visible light transmittance. By adjusting the visible light transmittance with the light-controlling component 20, the sun visor controls sunlight and other light entering the interior of the vehicle, providing the vehicle occupants with good visibility. The illustrated example is not limited to the example, and the laminated plate 10 may also be used in a side window, rear window, side mirror, or the like of the mobile body 1. The mobile body 1 may also be a ship, a railroad vehicle, an aircraft, or the like.

[0035] FIG. 2 is a plan view of the light control component 20 and the laminate 10 when the visible light transmittance is adjusted to a high level. FIG. 3 is a plan view of the light control component 20 and the laminate 10 when the visible light transmittance is adjusted to a low level. The plan view of the laminate 10 and the light control component 20 refers to a plan view of the laminate 10 and the light control component 20. The plan view of the laminate 10 and the light control component 20 refers to a view of the laminate 10 and the light control component 20 viewed from the normal direction of their plate surfaces. FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the laminate 10 and the light control component 20 taken along line IV-IV in FIG. 2. As shown in FIG. 4, the laminate 10 includes a first substrate 11 and a second substrate 12, a first bonding layer 13 and a second bonding layer 14, and the light control component 20. The first substrate 11 and the second substrate 12 face each other. The plate surface of the first substrate 11 faces the plate surface of the second substrate 12. The light adjusting member 20 is disposed between the first substrate 11 and the second substrate 12. The first bonding layer 13 is disposed between the first substrate 11 and the light adjusting member 20. The second bonding layer 14 is disposed between the second substrate 12 and the light adjusting member 20.

[0036] The first substrate 11 and the second substrate 12 preferably have high visible light transmittance so that the visible light transmittance of the laminate 10 can be increased when the visible light transmittance of the dimming component 20 is adjusted to a high value. The visible light transmittance of the first substrate 11 and the second substrate 12 may be 20% or more, 45% or more, 80% or more, or 85% or more. The material of the first substrate 11 and the second substrate 12 may be soda-lime glass. The thickness of the first substrate 11 and the second substrate 12 may be 1 mm or more, 2 mm or more, 3 mm or more, 3.5 mm or more, 10 mm or less, 8 mm or less, or 5 mm or less. The first substrate 11 and the second substrate 12 having such thicknesses have excellent strength and optical properties. The first substrate 11 and the second substrate 12 may be made of the same material or may differ from each other in at least one of their material and configuration.

[0037] In this specification, visible light transmittance is specified as the average value of the total light transmittance at each wavelength when measured in 1 nm increments within a wavelength range of 380 nm to 780 nm using a spectrophotometer (Shimadzu Corporation's "UV-3600i Plus," compliant with JIS K0115). The angle of incidence when measuring visible light transmittance is set to 0° unless a particular transmission direction is specified. The angle of incidence is the angle between the normal to the incident surface and the traveling direction of incident light, and is a value less than 90°.

[0038] The first substrate 11 and the second substrate 12 each have a flat, two-dimensional surface shape. However, the first substrate 11 and the second substrate 12 may each have a three-dimensional surface shape with a curved shape. The first substrate 11 and the second substrate 12 may each be pre-formed to have a curved shape that is convex on one side. In this case, the first substrate 11 and the second substrate 12 may be formed so that the first substrate 11 side is convex relative to the second substrate 12 side, or so that the second substrate 12 side is convex relative to the first substrate 11 side. The first substrate 11 and the second substrate 12 may be made of inorganic glass or resin glass. Examples of resin glass include polycarbonate and acrylic. When inorganic glass is used as the first substrate 11 and the second substrate 12, the laminated board 10 has excellent heat resistance and scratch resistance. On the other hand, when resin glass is used as the first substrate 11 and the second substrate 12, the laminated board 10 can be made lighter. Furthermore, the first substrate 11 and the second substrate 12 may be subjected to surface treatment such as hard coating, if necessary.

[0039] The first bonding layer 13 bonds the first substrate 11 and the light control component 20 to each other. The second bonding layer 14 bonds the second substrate 12 and the light control component 20 to each other. The first bonding layer 13 and the second bonding layer 14 preferably have high visible light transmittance so that the visible light transmittance of the laminate 10 can be increased when the visible light transmittance of the light control component 20 is adjusted to be high. The first bonding layer 13 and the second bonding layer 14 may have a visible light transmittance of 90% or more. The materials of the first bonding layer 13 and the second bonding layer 14 may have various adhesive or cohesive properties. The material of the first bonding layer 13 and the second bonding layer 14 may be polyvinyl butyral, an ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer, a cycloolefin polymer, an ionomer, an OCA (Optical Clear Adhesive), an OCR (Optical Clear Resin), a combination of an OCA and an OCR, or a combination of polyvinyl butyral and an OCR. The thickness of the first bonding layer 13 and the thickness of the second bonding layer 14 may be 0.15 mm or more or 1 mm or less. The first bonding layer 13 and the second bonding layer 14 may be made of the same material and configured identically, or may be different from each other in at least one of the material and the configuration.

[0040] The light control component 20 is capable of adjusting the visible light transmittance. The visible light transmittance that the light control component 20 can assume may be 0.5% or more, 1% or more, 10% or more, 20% or more, 75% or less, 70% or less, 45% or less, or 40% or less. The light control component 20 is a plate-shaped component. The thickness of the light control component 20 may be 0.1 mm or more, or 0.5 mm or less.

[0041] As shown in FIGS. 2 to 4 , the light adjusting member 20 includes a first member 30, a second member 40, a liquid crystal layer 50, and a sealing material 55. The liquid crystal layer 50 is disposed between the first member 30 and the second member 40. The sealing material 55 circumferentially surrounds the liquid crystal layer 50. FIG. 5 is an enlarged view of the space between the first member 30 and the second member 40 of the light adjusting member 20. For simplicity of illustration, the first member 30 and the second member 40 are omitted from FIG. 5 . As shown in FIG. 5 , the light adjusting member 20 further includes a plurality of first bead spacers 60 and a plurality of second bead spacers 70. The light adjusting member 20 may include other members (not shown) intended to perform specific functions.

[0042] The first member 30 and the second member 40 are plate-shaped. The first member 30 and the second member 40 are arranged so that their plate surfaces face each other. The first member 30 and the second member 40 sandwich a liquid crystal layer 50 therebetween. The first member 30 includes a first substrate 31, a first electrode 33, and a first alignment film 35, in this order. The second member 40 includes a second substrate 41, a second electrode 43, and a second alignment film 45, in this order. The second substrate 41 faces the first substrate 31. In the illustrated example, the first alignment film 35 of the first member 30 and the second alignment film 45 of the second member 40 face each other.

[0043] The first substrate 31 supports the first electrode 33 and the first alignment film 35. The second substrate 41 supports the second electrode 43 and the second alignment film 45. The first substrate 31 and the second substrate 41 are thin plate-shaped. The first substrate 31 and the second substrate 41 are transparent. The thickness of the first substrate 31 and the second substrate 41 may be 30 μm or more and 250 μm or less. The first substrate 31 and the second substrate 41 with such a thickness have excellent strength and optical properties. The material of the first substrate 31 and the second substrate 41 may be glass, an acetyl cellulose-based resin such as triacetyl cellulose (TAC), a polyester-based resin such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET) or polyethylene naphthalate (PEN), a polyolefin-based resin such as polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polystyrene, polymethylpentene, or EVA, a vinyl-based resin such as polyvinyl chloride or polyvinylidene chloride, an acrylic resin, a polyurethane-based resin, polysulfone (PSF), polyethersulfone (PES), polycarbonate (PC), polyether, polyetherketone (PEK), (meth)acrylonitrile, cycloolefin polymer (COP), or cycloolefin copolymer, and resins such as polycarbonate or polyethylene terephthalate are particularly preferred.

[0044] By transparent it is meant that the visible light transmittance is 40% or more, 70% or more, or 80% or more.

[0045] The first electrode 33 and the second electrode 43 are spaced apart from each other. The first electrode 33 extends along the first substrate 31. The second electrode 43 extends along the second substrate 41. The first electrode 33 and the second electrode 43 are not directly electrically connected in the light adjusting component 20. A voltage is applied to the first electrode 33 and the second electrode 43 via wiring (not shown). The visible light transmittance of the light adjusting component 20 can be adjusted by changing the voltage applied to the first electrode 33 and the second electrode 43. The first electrode 33 and the second electrode 43 are transparent. The first electrode 33 and the second electrode 43 may be a transparent conductive film made of indium tin oxide (ITO), a copper mesh, carbon nanotubes, or silver nanowires.

[0046] The first alignment film 35 and the second alignment film 45 regulate the orientation of liquid crystal molecules in the liquid crystal layer 50. The first alignment film 35 and the second alignment film 45 are thin films. The thickness of the first alignment film 35 and the second alignment film 45 may be 10 nm or more, 45 nm or more, 1000 nm or less, or 150 nm or less. The first alignment film 35 and the second alignment film 45 may be formed by rubbing a resin layer such as polyimide, or may be formed based on a photo-alignment method in which linearly polarized ultraviolet light is irradiated onto a polymer film to selectively react polymer chains in the polarization direction, or may be formed by subjecting a fine line-shaped concave-convex shape formed by rubbing to a molding process. The first alignment film 35 and the second alignment film 45 may also be formed by other methods. The first alignment film 35 and the second alignment film 45 may also be formed without rubbing.

[0047] The liquid crystal layer 50 includes a plurality of liquid crystal molecules. An electric field is generated in the liquid crystal layer 50 by applying a voltage to the first electrode 33 and the second electrode 43. The electric field changes the orientation of the liquid crystal molecules. The orientation of the liquid crystal molecules can be changed by changing the electric field generated in the liquid crystal layer 50, and thus by changing the voltage applied to the first electrode 33 and the second electrode 43. The visible light transmittance of the liquid crystal layer 50 can be changed depending on the orientation of the liquid crystal molecules. The liquid crystal molecule driving method is not particularly limited, and may be a vertical alignment (VA) method, a twisted nematic (TN) method, an in-plane switching (IPS) method, a guest-host (GH) method, or a modified method of these methods. It is preferable that the liquid crystal layer 50 does not contain a polymerizable compound.

[0048] Depending on the driving method used for the liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystal layer 50, the light adjusting member 20 may further include two polarizing plates disposed with the liquid crystal layer 50 interposed therebetween. The first member 30 and the second member 40 may each further include a polarizing plate. Depending on the driving method used for the liquid crystal molecules of the liquid crystal layer 50, the first alignment film 35 of the first member 30 and the second alignment film 45 of the second member 40 may be omitted.

[0049] As an example, a case will be described in which the driving method of the liquid crystal molecules contained in the liquid crystal layer 50 is the GH mode. In the GH mode, the liquid crystal layer 50 further contains a dichroic dye composition. In the GH mode, the orientation of the liquid crystal molecules and the dichroic dye composition is controlled by the first alignment film 35 and the second alignment film 45, resulting in a horizontal alignment, when no voltage is applied to the first electrode 33 and the second electrode 43. The visible light transmittance of the liquid crystal layer 50 is low. When a voltage is applied between the first electrode 33 and the second electrode 43, the electric field causes the liquid crystal molecules and the dichroic dye composition to approach a perpendicular orientation relative to the first alignment film 35 and the second alignment film 45. The visible light transmittance of the liquid crystal layer 50 is increased. By changing the orientation of the liquid crystal molecules and the dichroic dye composition, the visible light transmittance of the liquid crystal layer 50 can be changed, as shown in Figures 2 and 3.

[0050] When no voltage is applied to the first electrode 33 and the second electrode 43, the liquid crystal molecules and the dichroic dye composition may be regulated by the first alignment film 35 and the second alignment film 45 to be vertically aligned, and when a voltage is applied between the first electrode 33 and the second electrode 43, the electric field may cause the liquid crystal molecules and the dichroic dye composition to be aligned closer to horizontal to the first alignment film 35 and the second alignment film 45. In other words, when no voltage is applied to the first electrode 33 and the second electrode 43, the liquid crystal layer 50 may have a high visible light transmittance, and when a voltage is applied to the first electrode 33 and the second electrode 43, the visible light transmittance may be low.

[0051] The liquid crystal layer 50 has a low haze value when its visible light transmittance is low. The light control component 20 including the liquid crystal layer 50 may have a haze value of 30% or less, or 15% or less when its visible light transmittance is low.

[0052] The haze value is expressed as the ratio of the diffuse transmittance to the total luminous transmittance of the object, and means the diffusion rate of light passing through the object. The total luminous transmittance is the ratio of the amount of light passing through the object to the amount of light entering the object. The diffuse transmittance is the ratio of the amount of light passing through the object in a direction other than the straight-ahead direction to the amount of light entering the object, i.e., the amount of light that is diffused and transmitted. The total luminous transmittance and the diffuse transmittance are measured using a haze meter (e.g., NDH7000 manufactured by Nippon Denshoku Industries Co., Ltd.) in accordance with JIS K7361.

[0053] The thickness of the liquid crystal layer 50 may be 1 μm or more, 10 μm or more, 20 μm or less, or 15 μm or less. The thickness of the liquid crystal layer 50 is maintained by the first bead spacers 60 and the second bead spacers 70. The thickness of the liquid crystal layer 50 may change depending on the temperature. For example, when the temperature of the liquid crystal layer 50 increases from 23° C. to 100° C., the thickness of the liquid crystal layer 50 increases by approximately 6%.

[0054] The sealant 55 extends so as to surround the liquid crystal layer 50. The sealant 55 prevents leakage of the liquid crystal layer 50 and adheres to the first member 30 and the second member 40 to fix them together. The material of the sealant 55 may be a thermosetting resin, an ultraviolet curable resin, or a thermal ultraviolet curable resin. Specifically, the material of the sealant 55 may be an acrylic resin, an epoxy resin, or an epoxy-acrylic resin.

[0055] The plurality of first bead spacers 60 and the plurality of second bead spacers 70 are disposed between the first member 30 and the second member 40 so as to maintain the thickness of the liquid crystal layer 50. In other words, the first bead spacers 60 and the second bead spacers 70 prevent the thickness of the liquid crystal layer 50 from becoming less than a predetermined thickness. In other words, the first bead spacers 60 and the second bead spacers 70 ensure a certain amount of space between the first member 30 and the second member 40. The first bead spacers 60 and the second bead spacers 70 are preferably spherical or nearly spherical so that an appropriate space can be ensured between the first member 30 and the second member 40 regardless of the orientation of the first bead spacers 60 and the second bead spacers 70. The average particle size of the second bead spacers 70 is larger than that of the first bead spacers 60. The average particle size of the second bead spacers 70 may be 110% or more or 130% or less of the average particle size of the first bead spacers 60. The average particle size of the first bead spacers 60 may be 1 μm or more, 10 μm or more, 20 μm or less, or 15 μm or less. The difference between the average particle size of the first bead spacers 60 and the average particle size of the second bead spacers 70 may be 1 μm or more, or 5 μm or less.

[0056] The average particle diameter of the first spacer beads 60 and the average particle diameter of the second spacer beads 70 are determined by the following method: The side surface of the liquid crystal layer 50 in the thickness direction is scanned with a scanning electron microscope (Hitachi High-Technologies S-4800) at an acceleration voltage of 3.0 kV and a magnification of 50,000 times to obtain a 1 mm ２ The side surface of the liquid crystal layer 50 in the thickness direction is observed under the same conditions, and the area of ​​1 mm ２ The particle size of the bead spacers is measured in a number 1.5 times the number of bead spacers observed in an area of ​​1 mm. ２If 100 bead spacers are observed in an area of ​​100 mm, the particle size of 150 bead spacers is measured. The particle size of a bead spacer is the value measured by sandwiching the observed bead spacer between two arbitrary parallel lines and measuring the distance between the two lines that results in the longest distance between the two lines. The average particle size (arithmetic mean diameter) of the particle sizes of the smallest 30% of the bead spacers whose particle sizes have been measured is taken as the average particle size of the first bead spacers 60, and the average particle size (arithmetic mean diameter) of the particle sizes of the largest 30% of the bead spacers is taken as the average particle size of the second bead spacers 70. When measuring the particle size of the bead spacers, even if the bead spacers are aggregated, i.e., when multiple bead spacers form a clump, or even if multiple bead spacers are in contact with each other, the particle size of each bead spacer in the bead spacer agglomerate, i.e., the clump of bead spacers, is measured. When measuring the particle size of the bead spacers, the agglomerate of bead spacers is not considered to be a single bead spacer.

[0057] The coefficient of variation of the particle size of the first bead spacers 60 and the coefficient of variation of the particle size of the second bead spacers 70 are small. Specifically, the coefficient of variation of the particle size of the first bead spacers 60 may be 5% or less, or 3% or less. The coefficient of variation of the particle size of the second bead spacers 70 may be 7% or less, 5% or less, or 3% or less. The coefficient of variation of the particle size of the first bead spacers 60 is the value obtained by dividing the standard deviation of the particle size of the smallest 30% of bead spacers among the bead spacers whose particle size is measured using the above-mentioned method by the average particle size (arithmetic mean diameter) of the smallest 30% of bead spacers. The coefficient of variation of the particle size of the second bead spacers 70 is the value obtained by dividing the standard deviation of the particle size of the largest 30% of bead spacers among the bead spacers whose particle size is measured using the above-mentioned method by the average particle size (arithmetic mean diameter) of the largest 30% of bead spacers.

[0058] The first bead spacers 60 are hard so that they can properly maintain the thickness of the liquid crystal layer 50. The second bead spacers 70 are more flexible than the first bead spacers 60. The hardness (flexibility) of the first bead spacers 60 and the second bead spacers 70 is quantified by an indentation test using a hardness tester (DUH-211S, manufactured by Shimadzu Corporation) in accordance with ISO 14577. In the indentation test, the greater the amount of deformation when a load is applied to a single first bead spacer 60 or second bead spacer 70, the higher the flexibility is determined to be.

[0059] Here, a specific method for measuring the flexibility of the first bead spacer 60 and the second bead spacer 70 will be described. First, a single first bead spacer 60 and a single second bead spacer 70 are removed from the light control component 20 and then placed on a 1.0 to 1.2 mm thick glass plate in an air atmosphere at room temperature and normal pressure. Next, a 50 μm square flat indenter is pressed against the tops of the first bead spacer 60 and the second bead spacer 70, and a load is applied vertically downward at a rate of 0.29 mN / sec up to 5 mN. Then, once the load reaches 5 mN, the load is maintained for 5 seconds, and then the load is removed at a rate of 0.29 mN / sec. The amount of vertical movement of the flat indenter at this time is quantitatively measured as the "amount of deformation" of the first bead spacer 60 and the second bead spacer 70. The amount of deformation of the first bead spacer 60 measured by applying a load of up to 5 mN at a rate of 0.29 mN / s using a 50 μm square flat indenter may be 0.1 μm or more or 1 μm or less. The amount of deformation of the second bead spacer 70 measured by applying a load of up to 5 mN at a rate of 0.29 mN / s using a 50 μm square flat indenter may be 2.38 μm or more, 2.88 μm or more, or 3.32 μm or less.

[0060] The second bead spacers 70 may be sufficiently more flexible than the first bead spacers 60. When a load of up to 5 mN is applied to the first bead spacers 60 and the second bead spacers 70 at a rate of 0.29 mN / s using a 50 μm square flat indenter and the amount of deformation of the first bead spacers 60 and the second bead spacers 70 is measured, the ratio of the amount of deformation of the second bead spacers 70 to the amount of deformation of the first bead spacers 60 may be 2.03 or more, 3.21 or more, 3.89 or more, or 4.49 or less.

[0061] The second bead spacers 70 deform quickly when a load is applied at an appropriate speed. In other words, when the same load is applied to the second bead spacers 70 at an appropriate speed, the deformation of the second bead spacers 70 stops immediately and there is almost no deformation while the same load is applied. Specifically, when a load of 5 mN is applied to the second bead spacers 70 at a speed of 0.29 mN / s using a 50 μm square flat indenter, the amount of deformation of the second bead spacers 70 from the time the load reaches 5 mN until the load is maintained for 5 seconds may be 0.1 μm or less, 0.04 μm or less, or 0.03 μm or less.

[0062] The number of second bead spacers 70 is greater than the number of first bead spacers 60. The number of second bead spacers 70 may be greater than 100% of the number of first bead spacers 60, or may be 150% or less. Specifically, the number of second bead spacers 70 is 1 mm or less in a plan view of the light adjusting component 20. ２ The number of first bead spacers 60 may be 30 or more, or 160 or less per unit area. ２ The number of bead spacers per unit area may be 30 or more, or 240 or less. When counting the number of bead spacers, if the bead spacers are aggregated, i.e., if a plurality of bead spacers form a mass, or in other words, if a plurality of bead spacers are in contact with each other, the aggregate of bead spacers, i.e., the mass of bead spacers, is counted as one bead spacer.

[0063] The second bead spacers 70 may have adhesive properties. The second bead spacers 70 having adhesive properties are bonded to the first member 30 and the second member.

[0064] The material of the first bead spacers 60 and the second bead spacers 70 may be an inorganic material such as silica, silicone, or acrylic resin, an organic material, or a core-shell structure combining these. The color of the first bead spacers 60 and the color of the second bead spacers 70 may be a color between the color of the liquid crystal layer 50 when its visible light transmittance is low and the color of the liquid crystal layer 50 when its visible light transmittance is high, or a color closer to the color of the liquid crystal layer 50 when its visible light transmittance is low than the intermediate color, or a color darker than the color of the liquid crystal layer 50 when its visible light transmittance is low. For example, the color of the first bead spacers 60 and the color of the second bead spacers 70 may be black.

[0065] The first bead spacers 60 and the second bead spacers 70 are held by the second member 40. The first bead spacers 60 and the second bead spacers 70 may be held by the second member 40 by being fixed to the second alignment film 45 of the second member 40. The first bead spacers 60 and the second bead spacers 70 may be held by an adhesive layer (not shown) provided on the second member 40. Movement of the first bead spacers 60 and the second bead spacers 70 between the first member 30 and the second member 40 is restricted.

[0066] FIG. 5 shows the light control component 20 at room temperature. "At room temperature" refers to a state in which the component has been exposed to an environment at a temperature of 23°C ± 5°C for 16 hours or more. As shown in FIG. 5 , at room temperature, the thickness of the liquid crystal layer 50 is maintained by both the first bead spacers 60 and the second bead spacers 70. Because the second bead spacers 70 are highly flexible, in the example shown in FIG. 5 , the second bead spacers 70 are deformed and crushed by being sandwiched between the first member 30 and the second member 40. Both the first bead spacers 60 and the second bead spacers 70 are in contact with both the first member 30 and the second member 40.

[0067] When the temperature around the light control component 20 changes, the temperature of the light control component 20 may also change. For example, when the light control component 20 is used as a sun visor in an automobile as shown in FIG. 1 , the temperature of the light control component 20 changes with changes in the temperature inside the automobile. As the temperature of the light control component 20 increases, the liquid crystal layer 50 expands due to the heat. The thickness of the liquid crystal layer 50 changes. FIG. 6 shows the light control component 20 in a state heated to a high temperature. The state heated to a high temperature refers to the state immediately after exposure to an environment at a temperature of 100°C ± 5°C for one hour or more. As shown in FIG. 6 , in the heated state, the thickness of the liquid crystal layer 50 is greater than the average particle size of the first bead spacers 60 and smaller than the average particle size of the second bead spacers 70. The thickness of the liquid crystal layer 50 is maintained by the second bead spacers 70. The second bead spacers 70 are in contact with both the first member 30 and the second member 40. The second bead spacers 70 may be deformed so as to be crushed by being sandwiched between the first member 30 and the second member 40. If the second bead spacers 70 have adhesive properties, the second bead spacers 70 adhere to the first member 30 and the second member 40 and are therefore less likely to separate from the first member 30 and the second member 40. The first bead spacers 60 are separated from one of the first member 30 and the second member 40. When the first bead spacers 60 are held by the second member 40, the first bead spacers 60 are separated from the first member 30.

[0068] An example of a manufacturing method for the light control member 20 and the laminated plate 10 will be described. The manufacturing method for the light control member 20 includes the steps of preparing a first member and a second member, applying a sealant to the second member, forming a liquid crystal layer, stacking the first member and the second member, and cutting a portion of the first member and the second member. The manufacturing method for the laminated plate 10 includes the step of joining the first substrate 11 and the second substrate 12 to the light control member 20.

[0069] The first member 30 and the second member 40 are fabricated. The process for fabricating the second member 40 will be described. The second electrode 43 is formed on the second substrate 41 by sputtering or the like. A coating liquid is prepared by dispersing the first bead spacers 60 and the second bead spacers 70 in a solvent together with a resin component that will form the second alignment film 45. The coating liquid is then partially applied to the second electrode 43. The resin component is dried and baked sequentially, causing the resin component to harden. The first bead spacers 60 and the second bead spacers 70 are fixed and held by the resin component. The solidified resin component is given an alignment control force by rubbing, photoalignment, or the like, to form the second alignment film 45. The second alignment film 45 may be formed without rubbing. Portions of the outer peripheries of the first bead spacers 60 and the second bead spacers 70 may be covered with the second alignment film 45. The first bead spacers 60 and the second bead spacers 70 may be adhered to the second alignment film 45 with an adhesive or the like. Through the above steps, the second member 40 is produced as shown in Fig. 7. The second member 40 holds the first bead spacers 60 and the second bead spacers 70 by the second alignment film 45. The first member 30 is produced by the same steps as the second member 40, except that the first bead spacers 60 and the second bead spacers 70 are dispersed in the coating liquid.

[0070] A sealing material 55A is printed in a circumferential shape on the surface of the second member 40 on which the second alignment film 45 is provided. The sealing material 55A is a viscous liquid material that has adhesive or sticky properties. The sealing material 55A hardens to become the sealing material 55. The sealing material 55A hardens when exposed to ultraviolet light, for example. As shown in FIG. 8 , a liquid crystal material containing liquid crystal molecules is supplied to the area surrounded by the sealing material 55A to form the liquid crystal layer 50.

[0071] 9 , under reduced pressure, the first member 30 is placed on the surface of the second member 40 on which the sealing material 55A has been applied. When placing the first member 30 on the second member 40, a roller or the like may be used to rub them together. The sealing material 55A is deformed and hardened to become the sealing material 55. The first member 30 and the second member 40 are joined together by the sealing material 55.

[0072] Parts of the first member 30 and the second member 40 are cut along the dotted lines shown in Fig. 10. The outer peripheral portions of the first member 30 and the second member 40 are removed. At least a portion of the cutting of the first member 30 and the second member 40 may be performed on the sealing material 55. The outer peripheral portions of the sealing material 55 may also be removed. The cutting of the first member 30 and the second member 40 may be performed using a tool such as a punching blade or a cutter, or a laser cutting device. Through the above steps, the light control member 20 is produced.

[0073] As shown in Fig. 11 , a first bonding layer 13 and a first substrate 11 are laminated on one surface of the light control component 20. The first substrate 11 and the light control component 20 are bonded via the first bonding layer 13. A second bonding layer 14 and a second substrate 12 are laminated on the other surface of the light control component 20. The second substrate 12 and the light control component 20 are bonded via the second bonding layer 14. Through the above steps, the laminate 10 shown in Fig. 4 is produced.

[0074] 26 shows an enlarged cross-sectional view of the gap between the first member 130 and the second member 140 of a conventional light adjusting member 120 at room temperature. The first member 130 and the second member 140 sandwich a liquid crystal layer 150 therebetween. The thickness of the liquid crystal layer 150 is maintained by bead spacers 160. The bead spacers 160 are held by the second member 140.

[0075] A light control component may be exposed to high temperatures for a long period of time. For example, if the light control component is installed inside a vehicle, the temperature inside the vehicle may rise due to sunlight or other factors, exposing the light control component to high temperatures for a long period of time. When the temperature of the light control component rises, the liquid crystal layer expands due to the heat. FIG. 27 shows an enlarged cross-sectional view of the gap between the first member 130 and the second member 140 of a conventional light control component 120 heated to a high temperature. As shown in FIG. 27 , in the conventional light control component 120, when the liquid crystal layer 150 expands, the gap between the bead spacers 160 and the first member 130 widens, and liquid crystal molecules may move between the bead spacers 160 and the first member 130. In the conventional light control component, when the light control component 120 is tilted relative to the horizontal direction, gravity causes the liquid crystal molecules to move through the liquid crystal layer 150, resulting in uneven distribution of the liquid crystal molecules on the lower side in the vertical direction. The unevenly distributed liquid crystal molecules are clearly visible from the outside of the light control component 120. The appearance of the light control member 120 may be impaired.

[0076] The light control component 20 of one embodiment includes a plurality of first bead spacers 60 and a plurality of second bead spacers 70. The average particle size of the second bead spacers 70 is larger than that of the first bead spacers 60. The second bead spacers 70 are more flexible than the first bead spacers 60. At room temperature, the second bead spacers 70 are deformed by being sandwiched between the first member 30 and the second member 40 due to their flexibility. The first bead spacers 60 prevent the second bead spacers 70 from being crushed too much and being unable to maintain the thickness of the liquid crystal layer 50. The first bead spacers 60 maintain the thickness of the liquid crystal layer 50 so that it does not become thinner than the average particle size of the first bead spacers 60. At room temperature, the thickness of the liquid crystal layer 50 is maintained by both the first bead spacers 60 and the second bead spacers 70. When heated to a high temperature, the thickness of the liquid crystal layer 50 increases. The first bead spacers 60 move away from one of the first member 30 and the second member 40, but the second bead spacers 70 remain in contact with both the first member 30 and the second member 40 because the deformation that had been caused by the second bead spacers 70 to conform to the thickness of the liquid crystal layer 50 returns to normal. This prevents the movement of liquid crystal molecules in the liquid crystal layer 50 between the second bead spacers 70 and the first member 30 and the second member 40. This prevents the appearance of the light control member 20 from deteriorating due to uneven distribution of liquid crystal molecules.

[0077] When a load of up to 5 mN was applied to the first bead spacers 60 and the second bead spacers 70 using a 50 μm square flat indenter at a rate of 0.29 mN / s, and the deformation of the first bead spacers 60 and the second bead spacers 70 was measured, the ratio of the deformation of the second bead spacers 70 to the deformation of the first bead spacers 60 was 3.21 or greater and 4.49 or less. The second bead spacers 70 are sufficiently more flexible than the first bead spacers 60. The first bead spacers 60 prevent the second bead spacers 70 from being overly crushed and being unable to maintain the thickness of the liquid crystal layer 50. The first bead spacers 60 maintain the thickness of the liquid crystal layer 50 so that it does not become thinner than the average particle size of the first bead spacers 60. At room temperature, the second bead spacers 70 deform appropriately, and when heated to a high temperature, the second bead spacers 70, which had been crushed to match the thickness of the liquid crystal layer 50, can return to their original shape. The second bead spacers 70 remain in contact with both the first member 30 and the second member 40. This suppresses the movement of liquid crystal molecules in the liquid crystal layer 50 between the second bead spacers 70 and the first and second members 30 and 40. This suppresses deterioration of the appearance of the light control member 20 due to uneven distribution of liquid crystal molecules.

[0078] The deformation of the second bead spacers 70 measured by applying a load of up to 5 mN to the second bead spacers 70 using a 50 μm square flat indenter at a rate of 0.29 mN / s is 2.38 μm or more and 3.32 μm or less. The second bead spacers 70 have sufficiently high flexibility, allowing them to deform appropriately at room temperature. The thickness of the liquid crystal layer 50 can be appropriately maintained at room temperature. The second bead spacers 70 do not have excessive flexibility, allowing them to properly return to their original shape in accordance with the thickness of the liquid crystal layer 50 when heated to a high temperature. The second bead spacers 70 remain in contact with both the first member 30 and the second member 40. Liquid crystal molecules are prevented from moving in the liquid crystal layer 50 between the second bead spacers 70 and the first member 30 and the second member 40. This prevents the appearance of the light control component 20 from deteriorating due to uneven distribution of liquid crystal molecules.

[0079] When a load of 5 mN is applied to the second bead spacers 70 using a 50 μm square flat indenter at a rate of 0.29 mN / s, the deformation of the second bead spacers 70 is 0.04 μm or less within 5 seconds of the load reaching 5 mN and maintaining the load. The second bead spacers 70 deform quickly when a load is applied at an appropriate rate. The second bead spacers 70 deform quickly when sandwiched between the first member 30 and the second member 40. The first bead spacers 60 are unlikely to separate from the first member 30 and the second member 40. The first bead spacers 60 can maintain an appropriate thickness of the liquid crystal layer 50. The first bead spacers 60 suppress the movement of liquid crystal molecules at room temperature. This suppresses deterioration of the appearance of the light control component 20 due to uneven distribution of liquid crystal molecules.

[0080] The average particle size of the second bead spacers 70 is 110% to 130% of the average particle size of the first bead spacers 60. When the temperature changes from 23°C to 100°C, the thickness of the liquid crystal layer 50 increases by approximately 6% due to thermal expansion. Because the average particle size of the second bead spacers 70 is within an appropriate range relative to the average particle size of the first bead spacers, when heated to a high temperature, the liquid crystal layer 50 expands, causing the first bead spacers 60 to separate from one of the first member 30 and the second member 40, while the second bead spacers 70 tend to remain in contact with both the first member 30 and the second member 40. When heated to a high temperature, the second bead spacers 70 suppress the movement of liquid crystal molecules in the liquid crystal layer 50. This suppresses deterioration of the appearance of the light control component 20 due to uneven distribution of liquid crystal molecules.

[0081] The number of second bead spacers 70 is greater than the number of first bead spacers 60. The second bead spacers 70 are likely to be arranged between the first bead spacers 60. When the light adjusting component 20 is heated to a high temperature, the first bead spacers 60 are separated from one of the first member 30 and the second member 40, but the second bead spacers 70 are in contact with both the first member 30 and the second member 40. The second bead spacers 70 can maintain the thickness of the liquid crystal layer 50 between the first bead spacers 60. When the light adjusting component 20 is heated to a high temperature, the second bead spacers 70 suppress the movement of liquid crystal molecules in the liquid crystal layer 50. This can suppress deterioration of the appearance of the light adjusting component 20 due to uneven distribution of liquid crystal molecules.

[0082] The second bead spacers 70 have adhesive properties. The second bead spacers 70 are more firmly bonded to the first member 30 and the second member. Because the second bead spacers 70 are highly flexible, when sandwiched between the first member 30 and the second member 40, the second bead spacers 70 are crushed and deformed, so that the second bead spacers 70 come into contact with the first member 30 and the second member 40 over a large area. The second bead spacers 70 are more firmly bonded to the first member 30 and the second member. The second bead spacers 70 are less likely to separate from the first member 30 and the second member 40. The movement of liquid crystal molecules in the liquid crystal layer 50 is suppressed. This can suppress deterioration of the appearance of the light control member 20 due to uneven distribution of liquid crystal molecules.

[0083] The first bead spacers 60 and the second bead spacers 70 are black in color. When the visible light transmittance of the light adjusting component 20 is adjusted to be low, the first bead spacers 60 and the second bead spacers 70 can prevent the transmittance from becoming too high. When the visible light transmittance of the light adjusting component 20 is adjusted to be high, the first bead spacers 60 and the second bead spacers 70 are less noticeable. The first bead spacers 60 and the second bead spacers 70 are less likely to deteriorate the appearance of the light adjusting component.

[0084] The light control component 20 of one embodiment includes a first component 30 including a first substrate 31, a second component 40 including a second substrate 41 facing the first substrate 31, a liquid crystal layer 50 disposed between the first component 30 and the second component 40, and a plurality of first bead spacers 60 and a plurality of second bead spacers 70 disposed between the first component 30 and the second component 40 to maintain the thickness of the liquid crystal layer 50. The average particle size of the second bead spacers 70 is larger than that of the first bead spacers 60. The second bead spacers 70 are more flexible than the first bead spacers 60. In the light control component 20 of one embodiment, the second bead spacers 70 are deformed and crushed when sandwiched between the first component 30 and the second component 40 due to their flexibility. When heated to a high temperature, even if the thickness of the liquid crystal layer 50 increases, the second bead spacers 70 return to their original shape to match the thickness of the liquid crystal layer 50, thereby remaining in contact with both the first component 30 and the second component 40. This suppresses the movement of liquid crystal molecules in the liquid crystal layer 50 between the second bead spacers 70 and the first and second members 30 and 40. This suppresses deterioration of the appearance of the light control member 20 due to uneven distribution of liquid crystal molecules.

[0085] Although one embodiment has been described, the present disclosure is not limited to the above embodiment. The above embodiment can be implemented in other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, changes, additions, etc. can be made without departing from the spirit of the present disclosure.

[0086] (Example) An embodiment of the present disclosure will be described in more detail with reference to an example, but the present disclosure is not limited to the example.

[0087] As samples for the examples and comparative examples, multiple light control components were prepared, each including a first member, a second member, a liquid crystal layer, a first bead spacer, and a second bead spacer. Each sample had a different type of second bead spacer, but the other components were similar. The first member included a first substrate made of polyethylene terephthalate and having a thickness of 125 μm. The second member included a second substrate made of polyethylene terephthalate and having a thickness of 125 μm. The thickness of the liquid crystal layer was 12 μm after being exposed to an environment at a temperature of 23°C ± 5°C for 16 hours or more. The average particle size of the first bead spacers was 12 μm. The first bead spacers were 1 mm thick when viewed from above the light control component. ２ There were 40 per person.

[0088] In Sample 1, the second bead spacers were the same as the first bead spacers. In Samples 2 to 7, the average particle size of the second bead spacers was 14 μm. In each sample, the second bead spacers were 1 mm apart in plan view of the light control component. ２ The number of second bead spacers was 50 per sample. The second bead spacers of each sample had different physical properties. Specifically, the amount of deformation when a load was applied, as described below, and the amount of change while the same load was applied were different.

[0089] Each sample of light control element was exposed to an environment at a temperature of 100°C ± 5°C for at least one hour, and immediately afterwards, it was placed at an angle to the horizontal and visually inspected to see if the liquid crystal molecules were unevenly distributed. The portions of the light control element where the liquid crystal molecules were unevenly distributed were discolored and therefore visible from the outside. Each sample was rated as A if no uneven distribution of the liquid crystal molecules was observed, B if the uneven distribution of the liquid crystal molecules was only inconspicuous, and C if the uneven distribution of the liquid crystal molecules was clearly observed.

[0090] A first bead spacer and a second bead spacer were removed from each sample of the photochromic component. The hardness (flexibility) of the first bead spacer and the second bead spacer of each sample was quantified and determined by an indentation test using a hardness tester (DUH-211S, manufactured by Shimadzu Corporation) conforming to ISO 14577. Specifically, a load of 0.29 mN / s was applied to one first bead spacer or one second bead spacer using a 50 μm square flat indenter up to 5 mN. Once the load reached 5 mN, the load was held for 5 seconds, and then the load was removed. While the load was applied, the amount of deformation of the first bead spacer or the second bead spacer relative to the applied load was measured. The measurement results of the second bead spacers of each sample are shown in Figure 12. The measurement of the first bead spacers was the same as for Sample 1.

[0091] For each sample, the amount of deformation of the second bead spacer when a load was applied, the ratio of the amount of deformation of the second bead spacer to the amount of deformation of the first bead spacer (sample 1) when a load was applied, and the amount of deformation of the second bead spacer during the 5 seconds that the load was maintained after the applied load reached 5 mN were determined. The results, along with the results of confirming the uneven distribution of liquid crystal molecules, are shown in Table 1 below.

[0092]

[0093] From the results shown in Table 1, the following can be understood.

[0094] When the ratio of the amount of deformation of the second bead spacers to the amount of deformation of the first bead spacers is 3.21 or more and 4.49 or less, the liquid crystal molecules are less likely to be unevenly distributed, and when the ratio of the amount of deformation of the second bead spacers to the amount of deformation of the first bead spacers is 3.89 or more and 4.49 or less, the liquid crystal molecules are even less likely to be unevenly distributed. This is thought to be because, when heated to a high temperature, the second bead spacers, which had been crushed to match the thickness of the liquid crystal layer, return to their original shape, thereby suppressing the movement of liquid crystal molecules between the second bead spacers and the first member.

[0095] When the deformation amount of the second bead spacers 70 is 2.38 μm or more and 3.32 μm or less, the liquid crystal molecules are less likely to be unevenly distributed, and when the deformation amount of the second bead spacers 70 is 2.88 μm or more and 3.32 μm or less, the liquid crystal molecules are even less likely to be unevenly distributed. This is thought to be because, when heated to a high temperature, the second bead spacers, which had been crushed to match the thickness of the liquid crystal layer, return to their original shape, thereby suppressing the movement of liquid crystal molecules between the second bead spacers and the first member.

[0096] If the flexibility of the second bead spacers is sufficiently high and the deformation of the second bead spacers 70 is 0.04 μm or less within 5 seconds of holding the load after the load reaches 5 mN, the liquid crystal molecules are less likely to be unevenly distributed. This is thought to be because the second bead spacers quickly deform, making it difficult for the first bead spacers and the first member to separate, and suppressing the movement of the liquid crystal molecules at room temperature.

[0097] (Modifications) Next, various modifications of this embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 13 to 25. Figures 13 to 25 are views showing cladding plates according to modifications of this embodiment. In Figures 13 to 25, the same parts as those shown in Figures 1 to 12 are designated by the same reference numerals, and detailed descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0098] (First Modification) Fig. 13 shows a laminated board 10 according to a first modification. As shown in Fig. 13, the laminated board 10 according to this modification includes a first substrate 11, a first bonding layer 13, a light control component 20, a second bonding layer 14, and a second substrate 12. The first substrate 11, the first bonding layer 13, the light control component 20, the second bonding layer 14, and the second substrate 12 are stacked in this order.

[0099] The first bonding layer 13 is disposed between the first substrate 11 and the light control member 20 and serves to bond the first substrate 11 and the light control member 20 to each other. Similarly, the second bonding layer 14 is disposed between the second substrate 12 and the light control member 20 and serves to bond the second substrate 12 and the light control member 20 to each other.

[0100] 13 , the first bonding layer 13, the light control component 20, and the second bonding layer 14 have the same planar shapes. The first substrate 11, the first bonding layer 13, the light control component 20, the second bonding layer 14, and the second substrate 12 may also have the same planar shapes. The thickness of the first bonding layer 13 is preferably uniform within its plane. The thickness of the second bonding layer 14 is preferably uniform within its plane.

[0101] In this modification, at least one of the first bonding layer 13 and the second bonding layer 14 is a bonded body containing a non-compression adhesive component. Both the first bonding layer 13 and the second bonding layer 14 may be bonded bodies containing a non-compression adhesive component. Here, the "bonded body containing a non-compression adhesive component" refers to a bonded body that does not require pressure to properly adhere to an adjacent object and can be moderately bonded to an adjacent object under normal pressure. Examples of the "bonded body containing a non-compression adhesive component" include optically transparent resins such as OCA (Optical Clear Adhesive) or OCR (Optical Clear Resin), and curable resins (e.g., thermosetting resins, room temperature curing resins, two-component resins, ultraviolet curing resins, and electron beam curing resins).

[0102] In this modified example, one of the first bonding layer 13 and the second bonding layer 14 may be composed of OCR, and the other may be composed of OCA. OCR is a liquid resin obtained by mixing a base resin, such as an acrylic resin, a silicone resin, or a urethane resin, with an additive, and then curing the resin using, for example, ultraviolet (UV) light. The OCA is a layer prepared, for example, as follows: First, a liquid curable adhesive layer composition containing a polymerizable compound is applied to a release film, such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET), and then cured using, for example, ultraviolet (UV) light to obtain an OCA sheet. The curable adhesive layer composition may be an optical pressure-sensitive adhesive, such as an acrylic resin, a silicone resin, or a urethane resin. After laminating the OCA sheet to the object, the release film is peeled off and removed to obtain a layer composed of the OCA. The first bonding layer 13 and the second bonding layer 14 made of OCA each have optical transparency, and preferably have heat resistance, moist heat resistance, and weather resistance up to at least about 120°C.

[0103] In FIG. 13 , one of the first bonding layer 13 and the second bonding layer 14 may be made of OCR, and the other may be made of OCA. Alternatively, both the first bonding layer 13 and the second bonding layer 14 may be made of OCR. Alternatively, both the first bonding layer 13 and the second bonding layer 14 may be made of OCA. Alternatively, one of the first bonding layer 13 and the second bonding layer 14 may be made of OCR, and the other may be made of a bonded body containing a pressure-bondable adhesive component. Examples of a bonded body containing a pressure-bondable adhesive component include resins such as polyvinyl butyral (PVB). Note that a "bonded body containing a pressure-bondable adhesive component" refers to a bonded body that requires pressure (i.e., pressure greater than atmospheric pressure) to properly bond to an adjacent object. Atmospheric pressure is environmental pressure, typically equal to atmospheric pressure, and may be referred to as standard atmospheric pressure.

[0104] According to this modification, the first bonding layer 13, the light control component 20, and the second bonding layer 14 have the same planar shapes. This prevents the first bonding layer 13 and the second bonding layer 14 from undergoing non-uniform in-plane thermal expansion when the laminated plate 10 is heated to a high temperature during use. As a result, uneven distribution of liquid crystal molecules in the liquid crystal layer 50 of the light control component 20 due to non-uniform in-plane thermal expansion of the first bonding layer 13 and the second bonding layer 14 is prevented, and deterioration of the appearance of the laminated plate 10 can be prevented.

[0105] (Second Modification) Fig. 14 shows a laminated board 10 according to a second modification. In the laminated board 10 shown in Fig. 14, the first bonding layer 13 and the second bonding layer 14 are connected to each other by an insert material 16. The insert material 16 is a frame-shaped member in plan view, and more specifically, a member having a square shape (a rectangular shape with a hollowed-out center) or a shape obtained by cutting off a part of a square shape. The insert material 16 may be made of a material having a thermal expansion coefficient close to that of the light control component 20. The difference between the thermal expansion coefficient of the insert material 16 and that of the light control component 20 is 3 x 10 －４ Below 1.5 × 10, preferably －４ Less than 5×10, more preferably －５ or less, more preferably 1×10 －５ The material of the insert 16 may be a resin such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polycarbonate (PC), or OCR. The thickness of the insert 16 is preferably the same as the thickness of the light adjusting member 20.

[0106] The insert 16 is a member formed in a thickness portion of the light control component 20 in a cross-sectional view when the first bonding layer 13 and the second bonding layer 14 are larger than the light control component 20 in a plan view. The insert 16 is formed so as to surround the periphery of the light control component 20 in a plan view. The insert 16 has a shape obtained by hollowing out the planar shape of the light control component 20 from the planar shapes of the first bonding layer 13 and the second bonding layer 14.

[0107] The outer periphery of the insert 16 may be the same size as the outer periphery of the first substrate 11 and the second substrate 12. Alternatively, the outer periphery of the insert 16 may be larger or smaller than the outer periphery of the first substrate 11 and the second substrate 12. The inner periphery of the insert 16 may be the same size as the outer periphery of the light control component 20, or may be larger than the outer periphery of the light control component 20.

[0108] The thickness of the first bonding layer 13 is preferably uniform in the portion in contact with the light control component 20 and the portion not in contact with the light control component 20 (the portion in contact with the insert material 16). The thickness of the first bonding layer 13 is more preferably uniform within the plane. Similarly, the thickness of the second bonding layer 14 is preferably uniform in the portion in contact with the light control component 20 and the portion not in contact with the light control component 20 (the portion in contact with the insert material 16). The thickness of the second bonding layer 14 is more preferably uniform within the plane.

[0109] 14 , one of the first bonding layer 13 and the second bonding layer 14 may be made of OCR, and the other may be made of OCA. Alternatively, both the first bonding layer 13 and the second bonding layer 14 may be made of OCR. Alternatively, both the first bonding layer 13 and the second bonding layer 14 may be made of OCA. Alternatively, one of the first bonding layer 13 and the second bonding layer 14 may be made of OCR, and the other may be made of a bonded body containing a pressure-bondable adhesive component. An example of a bonded body containing a pressure-bondable adhesive component is a resin such as polyvinyl butyral (PVB).

[0110] According to this modification, an insert material 16 is provided around the outer periphery of the light control component 20. This prevents the gap between the first substrate 11 and the second substrate 12 from becoming uneven in plane due to the difference in thermal expansion between the light control component 20 and the surrounding components when the laminated plate 10 is heated to a high temperature during use. In other words, the area outside the light control component 20 and the area where the light control component 20 is present expand uniformly. This prevents the liquid crystal molecules in the liquid crystal layer 50 of the light control component 20 from becoming unevenly distributed due to the uneven gap between the first substrate 11 and the second substrate 12, thereby preventing deterioration of the appearance of the laminated plate 10. Furthermore, this modification prevents moisture and other intrusion from the sides of the laminated plate 10, thereby further improving the waterproofing properties of the laminated plate 10. Furthermore, according to this modification, the first substrate 11 (first bonding layer 13) and the second substrate 12 (second bonding layer 14) can be substantially held in place by the insert material 16, rather than by the light control component 20. This prevents peeling of the sealing material 55 that constitutes the dimming member 20, i.e., prevents peeling between the first member 30 and the second member 40, and therefore prevents peeling between the first substrate 11 (first bonding layer 13) and the second substrate (second bonding layer 14).

[0111] (Third Modification) Fig. 15 shows a laminated board 10 according to a third modification. In the laminated board 10 shown in Fig. 15, a peripheral fixing member 17 is provided on the periphery of the first substrate 11, the first bonding layer 13, the light control member 20, the second bonding layer 14, and the second substrate 12. The peripheral fixing member 17 may be made of, for example, a sealant, a resin, or a metal. Among these, examples of the sealant include thermosetting resins such as epoxy resins and acrylic resins, and ultraviolet-curable resins.

[0112] The peripheral fixing member 17 is a frame-shaped member in plan view, and more specifically, a member having a square shape (a rectangular shape with a hollowed-out center) or a shape obtained by cutting off a portion of a square shape. In cross-sectional view, the peripheral fixing member 17 is formed in the thickness portions of the first substrate 11, the first bonding layer 13, the light control member 20, the second bonding layer 14, and the second substrate 12. In plan view, the peripheral fixing member 17 is formed so as to surround the peripheries of the first substrate 11, the first bonding layer 13, the light control member 20, the second bonding layer 14, and the second substrate 12. The inner periphery of the peripheral fixing member 17 may be the same size as the outer peripheries of the first substrate 11, the first bonding layer 13, the light control member 20, the second bonding layer 14, and the second substrate 12. The thickness of the peripheral fixing member 17 may be the same as the total thickness of the first substrate 11, the first bonding layer 13, the light control member 20, the second bonding layer 14, and the second substrate 12.

[0113] 15 , one of the first bonding layer 13 and the second bonding layer 14 may be made of OCR, and the other may be made of OCA. Alternatively, both the first bonding layer 13 and the second bonding layer 14 may be made of OCR. Alternatively, both the first bonding layer 13 and the second bonding layer 14 may be made of OCA. Alternatively, one of the first bonding layer 13 and the second bonding layer 14 may be made of OCR, and the other may be made of a bonded body containing a pressure-bondable adhesive component. An example of a bonded body containing a pressure-bondable adhesive component is a resin such as polyvinyl butyral (PVB).

[0114] According to this modification, peripheral fixing members 17 are provided around the peripheries of the first substrate 11, the first bonding layer 13, the light control component 20, the second bonding layer 14, and the second substrate 12. In this case, the planar shapes of the first bonding layer 13, the light control component 20, and the second bonding layer 14 are identical to one another. This prevents the in-plane spacing between the first substrate 11 and the second substrate 12 from becoming uneven when the laminated plate 10 is heated to a high temperature during use. As a result, uneven distribution of liquid crystal molecules in the liquid crystal layer 50 of the light control component 20 due to the uneven spacing between the first substrate 11 and the second substrate 12 is prevented, thereby preventing deterioration of the appearance of the laminated plate 10. Furthermore, according to this modification, intrusion of moisture and the like from the sides of the laminated plate 10 is prevented, thereby further improving the water-proofing properties of the laminated plate 10. Furthermore, according to this modification, the first substrate 11 (first bonding layer 13) and the second substrate 12 (second bonding layer 14) can be substantially held by the peripheral fixing member 17, rather than by the light adjusting member 20. This makes it possible to prevent the light adjusting member 20 from peeling off from the first substrate 11 (first bonding layer 13) or the second substrate 12 (second bonding layer 14).

[0115] (Fourth Modification) Fig. 16 shows a laminated plate 10 according to a fourth modification. The laminated plate 10 shown in Fig. 16 includes a first substrate 11, a first bonding layer 13, a first antireflection layer 23, a second antireflection layer 24, a third bonding layer 15, a light control component 20, a second bonding layer 14, and a second substrate 12. The first substrate 11, the first bonding layer 13, the first antireflection layer 23, the second antireflection layer 24, the third bonding layer 15, the light control component 20, the second bonding layer 14, and the second substrate 12 are stacked in this order. A gap layer G is provided between the first bonding layer 13 and the light control component 20, more specifically, between the first antireflection layer 23 and the second antireflection layer 24. The first bonding layer 13 and the second bonding layer 14 are connected to each other by a peripheral bonding layer 18.

[0116] The first bonding layer 13 and the second bonding layer 14 may each be composed of a bonding material containing a pressure-bondable adhesive component. Examples of bonding materials containing a pressure-bondable adhesive component include resins such as polyvinyl butyral (PVB). The third bonding layer 15 bonds the second antireflection layer 24 and the light control component 20 to each other. The planar shape of the third bonding layer 15 may be the same as the planar shape of the light control component 20. The third bonding layer 15 is composed of a bonding material containing a non-pressure-bondable adhesive component, such as OCA or OCR. However, the third bonding layer 15 may also be composed of a bonding material containing a pressure-bondable adhesive component. The third bonding layer 15 may be composed of the same material as the first bonding layer 13 and the second bonding layer 14. In this case, the peripheral bonding layer 18 may be integrated with the first bonding layer 13 and the second bonding layer 14.

[0117] The peripheral bonding layer 18 is a member having a frame shape in plan view, more specifically a square shape (a rectangular shape with a hollowed-out center) or a shape obtained by cutting off a portion of a square shape. In cross-sectional view, the peripheral bonding layer 18 is formed on the first antireflection layer 23, the gap layer G, the second antireflection layer 24, the light control component 20, the third bonding layer 15, and a thickness portion of the light control component 20. In plan view, the peripheral bonding layer 18 is formed so as to surround the periphery of the first antireflection layer 23, the gap layer G, the second antireflection layer 24, the light control component 20, the third bonding layer 15, and the light control component 20. The inner periphery of the peripheral bonding layer 18 may be the same size as the periphery of the first antireflection layer 23, the gap layer G, the second antireflection layer 24, the light control component 20, the third bonding layer 15, and the light control component 20. The peripheral bonding layer 18, the first bonding layer 13, and the second bonding layer 14 may be made of the same material. The peripheral bonding layer 18 may be made of a bonding material containing a pressure-bonding adhesive component of a resin such as polyvinyl butyral (PVB).

[0118] The first antireflection layer 23 and the second antireflection layer 24 are each provided at a position facing the air gap layer G. The planar shapes of the first antireflection layer 23 and the second antireflection layer 24 are smaller than the planar shapes of the first bonding layer 13 and the second bonding layer 14. The planar shapes of the first antireflection layer 23 and the second antireflection layer 24 may be the same as the planar shape of the dimming component 20.

[0119] The gap layer G is formed in the space between the first antireflection layer 23 and the second antireflection layer 24. That is, the first antireflection layer 23 and the second antireflection layer 24 are not bonded to each other, but are arranged at a fixed interval in the thickness direction. The gap layer G is filled with air, but is not limited to this and may be filled with a gas such as nitrogen or an inert gas. The thickness of the gap layer G is, for example, greater than 0 μm and less than 10,000 μm, and preferably 0.1 μm or more and 100 μm or less. The planar shape of the gap layer G may be substantially the same as the planar shapes of the first antireflection layer 23 and the second antireflection layer 24.

[0120] The first antireflection layer 23 and / or the second antireflection layer 24 may be, for example, an AR (anti-reflection) film. An AR film is a film that suppresses specular reflection by utilizing the interference of reflected light. Examples of the structure of the first antireflection layer 23 and the second antireflection layer 24 include a single-layer structure consisting of a low-refractive index layer, a two-layer structure in which a low-refractive index layer and a high-refractive index layer are arranged so that the low-refractive index layer is the surface layer, and a multilayer structure in which layers are alternately stacked so that the low-refractive index layer is the surface layer. The high-refractive index layer and the low-refractive index layer are expressed in terms of the relative relationship of the refractive index between adjacent layers. For example, if a layer has a higher refractive index than a comparable layer, the higher layer is the high-refractive index layer, and the lower layer is the low-refractive index layer. Examples of materials for forming the low-refractive index layer include silicon oxide, magnesium fluoride, and fluorine-containing resins. Examples of materials for forming the high-refractive index layer include titanium oxide, zinc sulfide, zirconium oxide, and niobium oxide.

[0121] For example, colored glass (tint glass) with a low visible light transmittance may be used as the first substrate 11. The visible light transmittance of the colored glass may be 10% or more and 60% or less. The method for measuring the visible light transmittance is as described above. By using glass with a low visible light transmittance as the first substrate 11, the effects of the first antireflection layer 23 and the second antireflection layer 24 can be further enhanced, and the reflection of light at the air gap layer G can be further reduced.

[0122] As shown in FIG. 16 , an extension 25 may be formed by a portion of the first antireflection layer 23 and a portion of the second antireflection layer 24. The extension 25 protrudes outward from the laminate 10 in the planar direction. The extension 25 has a generally rectangular shape in a planar view and extends outward from the first substrate 11 and the second substrate 12. The extension 25 has a vent hole that connects the gap layer G between the dimming component 20 and the first antireflection layer 23 with the outside air. In this case, even if air escapes from the gap layer G between the first antireflection layer 23 and the second antireflection layer 24 during processing of the laminate 10, the gap layer G can be restored by injecting air or a gas such as nitrogen through the vent hole. After restoring the gap layer G between the first antireflection layer 23 and the second antireflection layer 24, the vent hole may be sealed with an adhesive, a liquid bonding layer, or the like. The location where the extension 25 is provided is not limited, but it is preferable to provide it somewhere other than near the corners of the light adjusting member 20 in order to prevent wrinkles and the like from occurring.

[0123] According to this modification, a gap layer G is provided between the first bonding layer 13 and the light adjusting component 20. As a result, when the laminated plate 10 is heated to a high temperature during use, the gap layer G absorbs the thermal expansion of the light adjusting component 20. In other words, the gap layer G makes it easier to obtain the effect of suppressing the movement of liquid crystal molecules in the liquid crystal layer 50 between the second bead spacers 70 and the first and second components 30 and 40. As a result, uneven distribution of liquid crystal molecules in the liquid crystal layer 50 of the light adjusting component 20 can be suppressed, and deterioration of the appearance of the laminated plate 10 can be suppressed.

[0124] Furthermore, according to this modified example, by providing the gap layer G between the first antireflection layer 23 and the second antireflection layer 24, it is possible to reduce the reflection of light at the interface between the dimming component 20 and the gap layer G or at the interface between the first bonding layer 13 and the gap layer G.

[0125] Fig. 17 shows another example of the laminate 10 according to the fourth modification. As shown in Fig. 17, a first substrate 11A with an anti-reflection (AR) function may be used as the first substrate. In this case, the first bonding layer 13 and the first anti-reflection layer 23 may not be provided.

[0126] 17, the first substrate 11A may have a multilayer structure. For example, the first substrate 11A may have a pair of glass plates and a bonding layer located between the pair of glass plates. The bonding layer may be a bonding material containing a pressure-bondable adhesive component such as polyvinyl butyral (PVB).

[0127] (Fifth Modification) Fig. 18 shows a laminated board 10 according to a fifth modification. The laminated board 10 shown in Fig. 18 includes a first substrate 11, a first bonding layer 13, a first antireflection layer 23, a second antireflection layer 24, a third bonding layer 15, a light control component 20, a second bonding layer 14, and a second substrate 12. The first substrate 11, the first bonding layer 13, the first antireflection layer 23, the second antireflection layer 24, the third bonding layer 15, the light control component 20, the second bonding layer 14, and the second substrate 12 are stacked in this order. A gap layer G is provided between the first bonding layer 13 and the light control component 20, more specifically, between the first antireflection layer 23 and the second antireflection layer 24. The first bonding layer 13 and the second bonding layer 14 are connected to each other by a peripheral bonding layer 18.

[0128] 18 , the first bonding layer 13 is made of a bonding material containing a non-compression adhesive component such as OCA or OCR. The planar shape of the first bonding layer 13 may be the same as the planar shape of the first antireflection layer 23. The planar shape of the first bonding layer 13 may be smaller than the planar shape of the first substrate 11.

[0129] Fig. 19 shows another example of a laminate 10 according to the fifth modified example. In Fig. 19, the first bonding layer 13 is composed of a bonding body containing a non-pressure-bonding adhesive component, such as OCA or OCR. The planar shapes of the first bonding layer 13 and the first antireflection layer 23 may be the same as the planar shape of the first substrate 11. The planar shapes of the first bonding layer 13 and the first antireflection layer 23 may be larger than the planar shapes of the air gap layer G, the second antireflection layer 24, the third bonding layer 15, and the light control component 20.

[0130] Fig. 20 shows another example of the laminate 10 according to the fifth modification. As shown in Fig. 20, a first substrate 11A with an anti-reflection (AR) function may be used as the first substrate. In this case, the first bonding layer 13 and the first anti-reflection layer 23 may not be provided.

[0131] 20, the first substrate 11A may have a multilayer structure. For example, the first substrate 11A may have a pair of glass plates and a bonding layer located between the pair of glass plates. The bonding layer may be a bonding material containing a pressure-bondable adhesive component such as polyvinyl butyral (PVB).

[0132] 18 to 20, the configuration other than that described above may be the same as that of the fourth modified example shown in FIG.

[0133] (Sixth Modification) Fig. 21 shows a laminated board 10 according to a sixth modification. The laminated board 10 shown in Fig. 21 includes a first substrate 11, a first bonding layer 13, a first antireflection layer 23, a second antireflection layer 24, a third bonding layer 15, a light control component 20, the second bonding layer 14, and a second substrate 12. The first substrate 11, the first bonding layer 13, the first antireflection layer 23, the second antireflection layer 24, the third bonding layer 15, the light control component 20, the second bonding layer 14, and the second substrate 12 are stacked in this order. A gap layer G is provided between the first bonding layer 13 and the light control component 20, more specifically, between the first antireflection layer 23 and the second antireflection layer 24. The first substrate 11 and the second substrate 12 are connected to each other by a peripheral fixing member 17A.

[0134] In the laminate 10 shown in Figure 21, the first bonding layer 13 is composed of a bonded body containing a non-compression adhesive component such as OCA or OCR. The second bonding layer 14 is composed of a bonded body containing a non-compression adhesive component such as OCA or OCR. The first bonding layer 13, the first antireflection layer 23, the gap layer G, the third bonding layer 15, the light control component 20, and the second bonding layer 14 may have the same planar shapes. The planar shapes of the first bonding layer 13, the first antireflection layer 23, the gap layer G, the third bonding layer 15, the light control component 20, and the second bonding layer 14 may be smaller than the planar shapes of the first substrate 11 and the second substrate 12.

[0135] The peripheral fixing member 17A is a frame-shaped member in plan view, more specifically a rectangular shape (a square shape with a hollowed-out center) or a shape obtained by cutting off a portion of a rectangular shape. In cross-sectional view, the peripheral fixing member 17A is formed in the thickness portions of the first bonding layer 13, the first antireflection layer 23, the gap layer G, the second antireflection layer 24, the third bonding layer 15, the light control component 20, and the second bonding layer 14. In plan view, the peripheral fixing member 17A is formed so as to surround the periphery of the first bonding layer 13, the first antireflection layer 23, the gap layer G, the second antireflection layer 24, the third bonding layer 15, the light control component 20, and the second bonding layer 14. The inner circumference of the outer fixing member 17A may be the same size as the outer circumference of the first bonding layer 13, the first anti-reflection layer 23, the gap layer G, the second anti-reflection layer 24, the third bonding layer 15, the dimming member 20, and the second bonding layer 14.

[0136] The peripheral fixing member 17A may be made of, for example, a sealant, an adhesive, a resin, or a metal. Examples of the sealant include thermosetting resins such as epoxy resin and acrylic resin, and ultraviolet-curable resins. Examples of the adhesive include double-sided tape with an acrylic foam base.

[0137] 21 , the first bonding layer 13 and the second bonding layer 14 may be made of a bonded body containing a pressure-bondable adhesive component such as polyvinyl butyral (PVB). Alternatively, one of the first bonding layer 13 and the second bonding layer 14 may be made of a bonded body containing a non-pressure-bondable adhesive component such as OCA or OCR, and the other may be made of a bonded body containing a pressure-bondable adhesive component such as polyvinyl butyral (PVB).

[0138] Fig. 22 shows another example of a laminated plate 10 according to the sixth modified example. In Fig. 22, the peripheral fixing member 17A is formed in a thickness portion of the first substrate 11, the first bonding layer 13, the first antireflection layer 23, the gap layer G, the second antireflection layer 24, the third bonding layer 15, the light adjusting component 20, the second bonding layer 14, and the second substrate 12 in a cross-sectional view. The peripheral fixing member 17A is formed so as to surround the periphery of the first substrate 11, the first bonding layer 13, the first antireflection layer 23, the gap layer G, the second antireflection layer 24, the third bonding layer 15, the light adjusting component 20, the second bonding layer 14, and the second substrate 12 in a plan view. The inner circumference of the outer periphery fixing member 17A may be the same size as the outer circumference of the first substrate 11, the first bonding layer 13, the first antireflection layer 23, the gap layer G, the second antireflection layer 24, the third bonding layer 15, the light control component 20, the second bonding layer 14, and the second substrate 12. The thickness of the outer periphery fixing member 17A may be the same as the total thickness of the first substrate 11, the first bonding layer 13, the first antireflection layer 23, the gap layer G, the second antireflection layer 24, the third bonding layer 15, the light control component 20, the second bonding layer 14, and the second substrate 12.

[0139] Fig. 23 shows another example of the laminate 10 according to the sixth modification. As shown in Fig. 23, a first substrate 11A with an anti-reflection (AR) function may be used as the first substrate. In this case, the first bonding layer 13 and the first anti-reflection layer 23 may not be provided.

[0140] 23, the first substrate 11A may have a multilayer structure. For example, the first substrate 11A may have a pair of glass plates and a bonding layer located between the pair of glass plates. The bonding layer may be a bonding material containing a pressure-bondable adhesive component such as polyvinyl butyral (PVB).

[0141] 21 to 23, the configuration other than that described above may be the same as that of the fourth modified example shown in FIG.

[0142] (Seventh Modification) Fig. 24 shows a laminated board 10 according to a seventh modification. As shown in Fig. 24, the laminated board 10 according to this modification includes a first substrate 11, a first bonding layer 13, a light control component 20, a second bonding layer 14, and a second substrate 12. The first substrate 11, the first bonding layer 13, the light control component 20, the second bonding layer 14, and the second substrate 12 are stacked in this order. The first bonding layer 13 and the second bonding layer 14 are connected to each other by a peripheral bonding layer 18.

[0143] The first bonding layer 13 may be made of a bonding material containing a non-compression adhesive component such as OCR, and the second bonding layer 14 may be made of a bonding material containing a non-compression adhesive component such as OCA.

[0144] The peripheral bonding layer 18 is a member that has a frame shape in a plan view, and more specifically, a square shape (a rectangular shape with a hollowed-out center) or a shape obtained by cutting off a part of a square shape. The peripheral bonding layer 18 is formed in the thickness portion of the light control component 20 in a cross-sectional view. The peripheral bonding layer 18 is formed so as to surround the periphery of the light control component 20 in a plan view. The inner periphery of the peripheral bonding layer 18 may be the same size as the outer periphery of the light control component 20. The peripheral bonding layer 18 may be made of the same material as the first bonding layer 13 and may be integrated with the first bonding layer 13.

[0145] Fig. 25 shows another example of the laminate 10 according to the seventh modification. As shown in Fig. 25 , the peripheral bonding layer 18 may be formed in the thickness portion of the light control component 20 and the second bonding layer 14. The peripheral bonding layer 18 is formed so as to surround the periphery of the light control component 20 and the second bonding layer 14 in a plan view. The inner periphery of the peripheral bonding layer 18 may be the same size as the outer periphery of the light control component 20 and the second bonding layer 14. The peripheral bonding layer 18 may be made of the same material as the first bonding layer 13 and may be integrated with the first bonding layer 13. The peripheral bonding layer 18 may be directly connected to the second substrate 12.

[0146] 24 and 25, the configuration other than that described above may be the same as that of the fifth modified example shown in FIG.

[0147] It is also possible to combine the multiple components disclosed in the above embodiments and modifications as needed, or to delete some of the components disclosed in the above embodiments and modifications.

Claims

1. A light control component comprising: a first member including a first substrate; a second member including a second substrate opposing the first substrate; a liquid crystal layer disposed between the first member and the second member; and a plurality of first bead spacers and a plurality of second bead spacers disposed between the first member and the second member so as to maintain the thickness of the liquid crystal layer, wherein the average particle size of the second bead spacers is larger than the average particle size of the first bead spacers, and the second bead spacers are more flexible than the first bead spacers.

2. The light-adjusting component according to claim 1, wherein when a load of up to 5 mN is applied to the first bead spacer and the second bead spacer at a speed of 0.29 mN / s using a 50 μm square flat indenter and the amount of deformation of the first bead spacer and the second bead spacer is measured, the ratio of the amount of deformation of the second bead spacer to the amount of deformation of the first bead spacer is 3.21 or more and 4.49 or less.

3. A light control component comprising: a first member including a first base material; a second member including a second base material facing the first base material; a liquid crystal layer disposed between the first member and the second member; and a plurality of first bead spacers and a plurality of second bead spacers disposed so as to maintain the thickness of the liquid crystal layer between the first member and the second member, wherein the average grain size of the second bead spacers is larger than the average grain size of the first bead spacers, and when a load of up to 5 mN is applied to the first bead spacers and the second bead spacers at a speed of 0.29 mN / s using a 50 μm square flat indenter and the amounts of deformation of the first bead spacers and the second bead spacers are measured, the ratio of the amount of deformation of the second bead spacers to the amount of deformation of the first bead spacers is 3.21 or more and 4.49 or less.

4. The light-adjusting component according to claim 1 or 3, wherein the amount of deformation of the second bead spacer measured by applying a load of up to 5 mN at a speed of 0.29 mN / s using a 50 μm square flat indenter is 2.38 μm or more and 3.32 μm or less.

5. A light control component comprising: a first member including a first substrate; a second member including a second substrate opposing the first substrate; a liquid crystal layer disposed between the first member and the second member; and a plurality of first bead spacers and a plurality of second bead spacers disposed so as to maintain the thickness of the liquid crystal layer between the first member and the second member, wherein the average particle size of the second bead spacers is larger than the average particle size of the first bead spacers, and the deformation amount of the second bead spacers measured by applying a load of up to 5 mN at a speed of 0.29 mN / s using a 50 μm square flat indenter is between 2.38 μm and 3.32 μm.

6. A light-adjusting component as described in any one of claims 1, 3, and 5, in which, when a load of 5 mN is applied to the second bead spacer at a speed of 0.29 mN / s using a 50 μm square flat indenter, the amount of deformation of the second bead spacer from the time the load reaches 5 mN until the load is maintained for 5 seconds is 0.04 μm or less.

7. A light-adjusting component according to any one of claims 1, 3 and 5, wherein the average particle size of the second bead spacers is 110% or more and 130% or less of the average particle size of the first bead spacers.

8. A light-adjusting component according to any one of claims 1, 3 and 5, wherein the number of the second bead spacers is greater than the number of the first bead spacers.

9. The light-adjusting component according to any one of claims 1, 3 and 5, wherein the first bead spacer and the second bead spacer are black in color.

10. A light-adjusting component according to any one of claims 1, 3 and 5, wherein the second bead spacer has adhesive properties.

11. A laminate comprising a first substrate and a second substrate facing each other, and a dimming member described in any one of claims 1, 3 and 5 arranged between the first substrate and the second substrate.

12. The laminate described in claim 11, further comprising: a first bonding layer that bonds the first substrate and the light control member to each other; and a second bonding layer that bonds the second substrate and the light control member to each other.

13. The laminate according to claim 12, wherein the first bonding layer and the second bonding layer have a uniform thickness within their planes.

14. The laminate of claim 12, wherein the first and second bonding layers are connected to each other by an insert.

15. The laminate of claim 14, wherein the material of the insert is polyethylene terephthalate, polycarbonate or OCR.

16. The laminate according to claim 12, further comprising a peripheral fixing member provided on the outer periphery of the first substrate, the first bonding layer, the light control member, the second bonding layer and the second substrate.

17. The laminate according to claim 12, wherein a gap layer is provided between the first bonding layer and the light control member.

18. The laminate according to claim 17, further comprising an anti-reflection layer disposed in a position facing the air gap layer.

19. The laminate of claim 18, wherein the first substrate is tinted glass.

20. The laminate according to claim 17, wherein the first substrate has an anti-reflection function.