Sun visor, information display device, and vehicle

Abstract

This sun visor (20) is a sun visor for a vehicle, and is provided with a light control film. This information display device is provided with the sun visor (20) of the present invention and a light source for irradiating the suspended sun visor (20) with light. This vehicle (1) is provided with the sun visor (20) of the present invention. According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a sun visor and an information display device and a vehicle provided with the sun visor, the sun visor having improved visibility when used and having a reduced impact on the design of an in-vehicle space when not in use.

Description

Sun visor, information display device and vehicle

[0001] The present invention relates to a sun visor, and an information display device and a vehicle equipped with the sun visor.

[0002] 2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, in vehicles, a sun visor is provided above the windshield to protect the eyes of the driver and the like from direct sunlight (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

[0003] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 07-285336

[0004] However, when conventional sun visors are hung down to cover the windshield, they block the upper part of the field of view, sacrificing visibility and causing problems such as making it difficult to see traffic lights, etc. Furthermore, sun visors are conspicuous when not in use, which can have a negative impact on the design of the vehicle interior.

[0005] Therefore, the present invention has been made in consideration of the above problems, and it is also an object of the present invention to provide a sun visor that improves visibility when in use and reduces the impact on the design of the interior space when not in use, as well as an information display device and vehicle equipped with such a sun visor.

[0006] After extensive research, the inventors discovered that the above-mentioned problems can be solved by providing a sun visor with a light control film, and have thus completed the present invention. [1] A vehicle sun visor comprising a light control film. [2] The sun visor according to [1] above, comprising a first glass plate, a second glass plate, and an intermediate film disposed between the first and second glass plates, the intermediate film comprising the light control film. [3] The sun visor according to [1] or [2] above, wherein the light control film comprises a first light control film switchable between a light transmission mode and a light scattering mode, and a second light control film with adjustable visible light transmittance, the first and second light control films being aligned in the thickness direction. [4] The sun visor according to [3] above, wherein the first light control film has a visible light transmittance of 60% or more and 100% or less and a haze value of 0% or more and 30% or less in the light transmission mode. [5] The sun visor according to [3] or [4] above, wherein the first light control film has a visible light transmittance of 0% or more and 40% or less and a haze value of 70% or more and 100% or less in light scattering mode. [6] The sun visor according to any one of [3] to [5] above, wherein the second light control film is switchable between a light transmission mode and a light blocking mode, and wherein the second light control film has a visible light transmittance of 25% or more and 100% or less and a haze value of 0% or more and 30% or less in light transmission mode. [7] The sun visor according to any one of [3] to [6] above, wherein the second light control film is switchable between a light transmission mode and a light blocking mode, and wherein the second light control film has a visible light transmittance of 0.5% or more and less than 25% and a haze value of less than 60% in light blocking mode. [8] The sun visor according to any one of [1] to [7] above, which is provided on the roof of a vehicle and can be lowered. [9] An information display device comprising the sun visor according to [8] above and a light source that irradiates the lowered sun visor with light.

[10] A vehicle equipped with the sun visor according to any one of [1] to [9] above.

[11] The vehicle according to the above

[10] , wherein the vehicle comprises a roof portion having a laminated glass structure, the laminated glass structure comprising a first glass sheet, a second glass sheet, and an interlayer film disposed between the first and second glass sheets, and the sun visor is attached to the laminated glass structure.

[0007] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a sun visor that improves visibility when in use and reduces the impact on the design of the interior space when not in use, as well as an information display device and a vehicle equipped with such a sun visor.

[0008] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a vehicle equipped with a sun visor of one embodiment of the present invention in a state where it is provided on a roof portion. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a vehicle equipped with a sun visor of one embodiment of the present invention in a hanging state. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of a method for hanging a sun visor of one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of a method for hanging a sun visor of one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of a sun visor of one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of a modified sun visor of one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 7 is a diagram for explaining the configuration of an information display device of one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of information displayed on a sun visor of one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of information displayed on a sun visor of one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing a control system of an information display device of one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 11 is an exploded view of a laminated glass structure in a vehicle of one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an example of an overhead console equipped in a vehicle of one embodiment of the present invention.

[0009] [Sun Visor] A sun visor according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. Fig. 1 is a diagram showing a vehicle equipped with a sun visor according to one embodiment of the present invention. As shown in Fig. 1, a sun visor 20 according to one embodiment of the present invention is provided on a roof portion 10 of a vehicle 1.

[0010] As shown in Fig. 2, the sun visor 20 of one embodiment of the present invention can be hung down, and by hanging down, it is positioned to cover the upper part of the windshield 4. For example, as shown in Fig. 3, the sun visor 20 may be made to hang down by moving the sun visor 20 along a guide 2. As shown in Fig. 4, the sun visor 20 may be made to hang down by rotating the sun visor 20 around a hinge 3. The hanging sun visor 20 can also be positioned along the roof portion 10 by flipping it up.

[0011] In the present invention, the sun visor 20 includes a light-controlling film. By including the light-controlling film, the visible light transmittance of the sun visor 20 can be adjusted. That is, when the light-controlling film is in the light-transmitting mode, the sun visor 20 is at least light-transmitting, allowing the outside to be seen through the sun visor 20. Therefore, even when the sun visor 20 is left hanging down when not needed, it is possible to prevent the sun visor 20 from obstructing the field of view. Furthermore, because the sun visor 20 becomes transparent or translucent in the light-transmitting mode, even when it is left hanging down when not needed, it can reduce the impact on the interior design of the vehicle. Furthermore, the sun visor 20 can be flipped up and positioned along the roof 10 according to the user's needs, thereby reducing the impact of the sun visor 20 on the interior design of the vehicle when not in use.

[0012] The sun visor 20 may be provided with only one light control film, or two or more light control films. When two or more light control films are provided, they are preferably arranged along the thickness direction of the sun visor 20. By arranging two or more light control films in the thickness direction, the visible light transmittance and haze value of the sun visor can be adjusted to a wide variety of values ​​by appropriately switching the mode of each light control film, thereby making it possible to provide a sun visor that is more suited to the needs of the user.

[0013] The sun visor 20 has a visible light transmittance of 10% or more when the light control film is in light transmission mode, preferably 20% or more, and more preferably 30% or more. By setting the visible light transmittance to a certain value or more, the sun visor 20 can improve visibility when not in use while also reducing the impact on the design of the vehicle interior. Note that the light transmission mode here refers to the visible light transmittance when all light control films are in light transmission mode when multiple light control films are arranged in the thickness direction. There are no particular upper limits for the visible light transmittance, and it is sufficient if it is 100% or less, but it is usually 90% or less, preferably 80% or less.

[0014] Furthermore, the sun visor 20 preferably has a visible light transmittance of 5% or less when the light control film is in light-blocking mode, more preferably 3% or less, even more preferably 1% or less, and even more preferably 0.5% or less. By reducing the visible light transmittance in the light-blocking mode, the sun visor 20 becomes generally opaque, exhibiting sufficient light-blocking and heat-blocking properties and preventing direct sunlight from irradiating the driver. Note that the light-blocking mode referred to here means the visible light transmittance when all light-blocking films are in light-blocking mode when multiple light-control films are arranged in the thickness direction. There is no particular lower limit for the visible light transmittance in the light-blocking mode, as long as it is 0% or more. Note that the visible light transmittance may be measured using a spectrophotometer in accordance with JIS R3106:2019.

[0015] Hereinafter, a sun visor having two light control films disposed in the thickness direction will be described in detail as one embodiment of the sun visor. As shown in FIG. 5 , a sun visor 20 according to one embodiment of the present invention includes light control films 23A and 23B. FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the sun visor 20 according to one embodiment of the present invention. This allows the sun visor 20 to sufficiently suppress glare from external light, such as sunlight, when the sun visor 20 is in a hanging position, while ensuring visibility of the outside world when there is no glare from external light. Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 5 , the sun visor 20 according to one embodiment of the present invention may further include semiconductor driver boards 24A and 24B for driving the light control films 23A and 23B. By including the semiconductor driver boards 24A and 24B, the sun visor 20 does not need to include a circuit for driving the light control films anywhere other than the sun visor 20, thereby preventing an increase in the number of components.

[0016] As shown in Figure 5, a sun visor 20 according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a first glass plate 21A, a second glass plate 21B, and a first interlayer film 25A disposed between the first and second glass plates 21A and 21B. The first interlayer film 25A includes a first light control film 23A capable of switching between light transmission and light scattering, and a second light control film 23B capable of adjusting visible light transmittance, and the first and second light control films 23A and 23B are preferably arranged in the thickness direction. In other words, the sun visor 20 is preferably a laminated glass structure in which two glass plates are joined together via the interlayer film 25A. Here, the first and second light control films 23A, 23B are preferably light control films with different properties. The first light control film 23A is preferably a light control film that can be switched between a light transmission mode and a light scattering mode, and the second light control film 23B is preferably a light control film with adjustable visible light transmittance, more preferably a light control film that can be switched between a light transmission mode and a light blocking mode. As described above, the first and second light control films 23A, 23B have different properties, and by appropriately combining the modes of the first and second light control films 23A, 23B to block light, the inflow of heat rays can be appropriately prevented and appropriate heat blocking functionality can be achieved. For example, if the first light control film 23A is set to a light scattering mode as described below, while the second light control film 23B is also set to a light blocking mode, the light blocking and heat blocking properties can be sufficiently improved. Furthermore, while the first light control film 23A is in the light transmission mode, the second light control film 23B can adjust the visible light transmittance according to the external conditions, thereby making it possible to increase light transmittance or to reduce light transmittance while achieving a sense of openness, thereby providing a sun visor 20 that fully meets the needs of the user. Below, a more detailed description will be given of the case where the first light control film 23A is a light control film that can switch between light transmission and light scattering, and the second light control film 23B is a second light control film 23B that can adjust the visible light transmittance.

[0017] (First Light Control Film) As described above, the first light control film 23A is a light control body that can be switched between a light transmission mode and a light scattering mode. The first light control film 23A has a high visible light transmittance in the light transmission mode. Furthermore, in the light scattering mode (which may be referred to as the light blocking mode for convenience), the first light control film 23A has a high haze value and a lower visible light transmittance than in the light transmission mode. The first light control film 23A switches between the light transmission mode and the light scattering mode depending on whether or not a voltage is applied.

[0018] It is preferable to use a polymer dispersed liquid crystal (PDLC) film as the first light control film 23A. The use of a PDLC film makes it easy to increase the visible light transmittance in the light transmission mode, and to obtain high light scattering in the light scattering mode, making it easy to increase the haze value in the light scattering mode. Alternatively, a polymer network liquid crystal (PNLC) can also be used as the first light control film 23A.

[0019] The first light control film 23A includes, for example, two substrate films and a light control layer disposed between the two substrate films. Examples of the substrate film include resin films that use, as a resin component, polyester resins such as polyethylene terephthalate and polyethylene naphthalate, acrylic resins, cellulose derivatives such as triacetyl cellulose (TAC), polyethersulfone (PES) resins, and polyimide resins. Among these, polyester resin films are preferred from the viewpoint of ease of handling, and polyethylene terephthalate films are more preferred.

[0020] In addition, it is preferable that an electrode layer is provided on the surface of each of the two base films facing the light-controlling layer. The electrode layer can be made of any conventionally known transparent electrode material without any particular limitation, and examples thereof include an indium tin oxide (ITO) conductive film, a tin oxide conductive film, a zinc oxide conductive film, and a polymer conductive film. It is preferable that an extraction electrode is connected to the electrode layer, and a voltage is applied between the electrode layers via the extraction electrode.

[0021] The light control layer in the first light control film 23A is, for example, a liquid crystal layer. When the first light control film 23A is a polymer-dispersed liquid crystal (PDLC) film, the liquid crystal layer is composed of polymer-dispersed liquid crystal (PDLC). Examples of polymer-dispersed liquid crystals include network-type liquid crystals, in which a network structure is formed by polymers within the liquid crystal layer. Examples of liquid crystal layers include those in which a space for filling the liquid crystal is formed using spacers or the like, and the liquid crystal is filled and sealed in the space, but spacers are not necessary. The liquid crystal may be of any type, including TN type or STN type. An alignment film may be provided between the light control layer and the electrode layer as appropriate. By providing an alignment film, the first light control film 23A can also be a reverse type, as described below.

[0022] When a voltage is applied between the electrode layers, the orientation state of the liquid crystal layer of the first light control film 23A changes, switching between a light transmission mode and a light scattering mode. The first light control film 23A may be either a normal type or a reverse type. The normal type is a type that is in a transmission state when a voltage is applied (voltage ON) and in a scattering state when no voltage is applied (voltage OFF). The reverse type is a type that is in a transmission state when no voltage is applied and in a scattering state when a voltage is applied.

[0023] As described above, the first light control film 23A has a high visible light transmittance and a small haze value in the light transmission mode. The specific visible light transmittance of the first light control film in the light transmission mode is, for example, 60% or more, preferably 70% or more, and more preferably 75% or more. Having a visible light transmittance of 60% or more or more can sufficiently increase the light transmittance of the laminated glass structure in the light transmission mode. The haze value of the first light control film 23A in the light transmission mode is, for example, 30% or less, preferably 20% or less, and more preferably 10% or less. The visible light transmittance of the first light control film 23A in the light transmission mode may be 100% or less, but practically it is 99% or less. The haze value may be 0% or more, but practically it is, for example, 1% or more.

[0024] On the other hand, in the light scattering mode, the haze value of the first light control film 23A is, for example, 70% or more, preferably 80% or more, and more preferably 90% or more. In the light scattering mode, such a high haze value improves light blocking properties, thereby appropriately preventing the inflow of heat rays in the light scattering mode. It also prevents people from looking into the interior from the outside of the sun visor 20. In the light scattering mode, the visible light transmittance of the first light control film 23A is lower than that in the light transmission mode, for example, 40% or less, preferably 20% or less, and more preferably 10% or less. As described above, the low light transmittance in the light scattering mode appropriately prevents the inflow of heat rays in the light scattering mode. The haze value of the first light control film 23A in the light scattering mode may be 100% or less, but practically, it is approximately 99% or less. The visible light transmittance may be 0% or more, but practically, it is approximately 1% or more.

[0025] The first light control film 23A is in either the light scattering mode or the light transmission mode when no voltage is applied, and in that mode, the haze value and visible light transmittance must be within the above-mentioned ranges. The first light control film 23A is in either the light scattering mode or the light transmission mode when a voltage is applied, and in that mode, the haze value and visible light transmittance must be within the above-mentioned ranges. However, the applied voltage value is not limited, and the above-mentioned haze value and visible light transmittance must be achieved at any voltage value. The same applies to the light transmission mode and light blocking mode of the second light control film 23B described below.

[0026] The thickness of the first light control film 23A is not particularly limited, but is, for example, 0.05 mm or more and 2 mm or less, preferably 0.1 mm or more and 1 mm or less, and more preferably 0.2 mm or more and 0.8 mm or less.

[0027] The first light control film 23A can be a commercially available product. Specific examples include the normal type of the "LC MAGIC" series manufactured by Toppan Printing Co., Ltd. [light transmission mode: haze value 5%, parallel ray transmittance 82%, light scattering mode: haze value 98%, parallel ray transmittance 1% (catalog values)] and the reverse type [light transmission mode: haze value 10%, parallel ray transmittance 80%, light scattering mode: haze value 92%, parallel ray transmittance 7% (catalog values)]. Further examples include the window type of "UMU" manufactured by Nippon Sheet Glass Um Products Co., Ltd. [light transmission mode: haze value 6%, parallel ray transmittance 74%, light scattering mode: haze value 86%, parallel ray transmittance 5% (catalog values)]. Other examples include "LC-W" manufactured by Gauzy.

[0028] (Second light control film) The second light control film 23B is a light control body capable of adjusting visible light transmittance. The second light control film 23B can be switched between a light transmission mode in which the visible light transmittance is high and a light blocking mode in which the visible light transmittance is low. The second light control film 23B does not scatter light significantly even in the light blocking mode, so the haze value is not very high, and the haze value is lower than the haze value of the first light control film in the light scattering mode described above.

[0029] Examples of the second light control film 23B include electrochromic films, SPD films, and electrophoretic film devices, with SPD films being preferred. Using these films reduces visible light transmittance without significant light scattering. Therefore, by setting the first light control film 23A in light transmission mode and the second light control film 23B in light blocking mode, light scattering can be suppressed while light transmittance is reduced so as not to completely block light. Therefore, when used as a sun visor, the outside can be seen through the sun visor, providing a sense of openness while preventing heat transmission to a certain extent.

[0030] The second light control film 23B includes, for example, two base films and a light control layer disposed between the two base films. Examples of the base films include resin films. The resins used for the resin films are as described for the first light control film 23A, but from the viewpoint of ease of handling, polyester resin films are preferred, and polyethylene terephthalate films are more preferred. Therefore, the base films of the first and second light control films 23A and 23B are preferably both polyester resin films, and more preferably both polyethylene terephthalate films.

[0031] In the second light control film 23B, each of the two base films may have an electrode layer on the surface facing the light control layer. Any conventionally known transparent electrode material may be used for the electrode layer, such as an indium tin oxide (ITO) conductive film, a tin oxide conductive film, a zinc oxide conductive film, or a polymer conductive film. An extraction electrode may be connected to the electrode layer, and a voltage may be applied between the electrode layers via the extraction electrode.

[0032] <<SPD Film>> When the second light control film 23B is an SPD (Suspended Particle Device) film, the light control layer is a layer containing a resin matrix and a light control suspension dispersed in the resin matrix. The resin matrix is ​​made of a polymer medium, and the light control suspension is a dispersion medium in which light control particles are dispersed in a flowable state. The polymer medium and dispersion medium (dispersion medium in the light control suspension) are those that allow the polymer medium and its cured product to phase-separate from the dispersion medium at least when formed into a film. It is preferable to use a combination of a polymer medium and a dispersion medium that are incompatible or partially compatible with each other.

[0033] The polymer medium contains a resin having a substituent with an ethylenically unsaturated bond and a photopolymerization initiator, and can be cured by irradiation with energy rays such as ultraviolet light, visible light, or electron beams. Examples of the resin having an ethylenically unsaturated bond include silicone resins, acrylic resins, and polyester resins. In addition to the resins having a substituent with an ethylenically unsaturated bond, organic solvent-soluble resins or thermoplastic resins, such as polyacrylic acid and polymethacrylic acid, can also be used as constituent materials of the polymer medium. Additives such as color inhibitors, such as dibutyltin dilaurate, may be added to the polymer medium as needed. Furthermore, the polymer medium may contain a solvent.

[0034] As the dispersion medium in the light control suspension, a liquid copolymer is preferably used that acts as a dispersion medium in the light control suspension, selectively adheres to and coats the light control particles, and acts to move the light control particles to the phase-separated droplet phase during phase separation with the polymer medium, and that is non-conductive and has no affinity with the polymer medium. Examples of liquid copolymers include (meth)acrylic acid ester oligomers having fluoro groups and / or hydroxyl groups, and (meth)acrylic acid ester oligomers having fluoro groups and hydroxyl groups are more preferred. The light control suspension used in this embodiment has light control particles dispersed in a dispersion medium in a fluidic manner. Examples of light control particles include polyiodide crystals, with small needle-shaped polyiodide crystals being preferred. When a voltage is applied between the two electrode layers, the light control particles orient in the thickness direction of the SPD film, thereby increasing light transmittance, for example, transmittance in a specific wavelength range. Furthermore, in the SPD film, a primer layer may be optionally provided between the light control layer and the electrode layer.

[0035] When no voltage is applied between the electrode layers (voltage OFF), the SPD film exhibits low light transmittance and operates in a light-blocking mode. On the other hand, when a voltage is applied between the electrode layers (voltage ON), the transmittance in a specific wavelength range, for example, increases, thereby switching the SPD film from the light-blocking mode to the light-transmitting mode. The SPD film may also change its color tone when irradiated with visible light in addition to the change in visible light transmittance. For example, it may be colorless and transparent when a voltage is applied, while exhibiting a color tone such as blue when no voltage is applied. Note that the visible light transmittance of the SPD film in the light-transmitting mode also changes when the magnitude of the voltage applied between the electrodes is changed.

[0036] <<Electrochromic Film>> When the second light-controlling film 23B is an electrochromic film, the light-controlling layer may contain an electrochromic material. The electrochromic material is not limited as long as it is a compound having electrochromic properties, and may be any of an inorganic compound, an organic compound, and a mixed-valence complex. Examples of inorganic compounds include Mo. ２ O ３ , Ir ２ O ３ , NiO, V ２ O ５ , W.O. ３ , TiO ２ Among them are WO ３ Examples of the organic compound include a polypyrrole compound, a polythiophene compound, a polyparaphenylene vinylene compound, a polyaniline compound, a polyacetylene compound, a polyethylene dioxythiophene compound, a metal phthalocyanine compound, a viologen compound, a viologen salt compound, a ferrocene compound, a dimethyl terephthalate compound, and a diethyl terephthalate compound. Among these, a polyacetylene compound is preferred. Examples of the mixed-valence complex include a Prussian blue complex (KFe[Fe(CN) ６ ], etc.)

[0037] When a voltage is applied between the electrode layers of an electrochromic film, the transmittance of a specific wavelength range, for example, changes, causing the photochromic element to change from a state of high visible light transmittance (light transmission mode) to a state of low visible light transmittance (light blocking mode). The color tone may also change when irradiated with visible light; for example, it may be colorless and transparent when no voltage is applied, but may have a color tone such as blue, yellow, green, or red when a voltage is applied.

[0038] <<Electrophoretic Film Device>> An electrophoretic film device has, for example, an electrophoretic portion between a substrate having two electrode layers. The electrophoretic portion includes, for example, electrophoretic particles and a dispersant that disperses the electrophoretic particles. In an electrophoretic film device, too, it is possible to switch between a state in which the visible light transmittance is high (light transmission mode) and a state in which the visible light transmittance is low (light blocking mode) by changing whether or not a voltage is applied between the electrode layers. Specific examples of electrophoretic film devices are described in detail in U.S. Patent Publication No. 2016 / 0124284, etc.

[0039] In the light transmission mode, the second light control film 23B has a visible light transmittance of a certain value or more and a small haze value. The specific visible light transmittance of the second light control film in the light transmission mode is, for example, 25% or more, preferably 30% or more, and more preferably 40% or more. By having a visible light transmittance of 25% or more, and by setting both the first and second light control films 23A and 23B to the light transmission mode, the light transmittance of the sun visor 20 can be increased, and even when the sun visor 20 is lowered, the outside can be observed with high visibility. Furthermore, the haze value of the second light control film 23B in the light transmission mode is, for example, 30% or less, preferably 20% or less, and more preferably 10% or less. The visible light transmittance of the second light control film 23B in the light transmission mode may be 100% or less, but practically 70% or less is also acceptable. The haze value may be 0% or more, but practically 1% or more is also acceptable.

[0040] On the other hand, in the light-shielding mode, the haze value of the second light control film 23B is, for example, less than 60%, preferably less than 50%, and more preferably less than 40%. In the light-shielding mode, such a low haze value ensures the linearity of transmitted light while increasing light-shielding properties. Therefore, when the first light control film 23A is set to the light-transmitting mode and the second light control film 23B is set to the light-shielding mode, a certain sense of openness can be ensured while adequately preventing the inflow of heat rays. On the other hand, the haze value of the second light control film 23B in the light-shielding mode is not particularly limited, but is generally higher than the haze value of the second light control film 23B in the light-transmitting mode.

[0041] Furthermore, in the light-shielding mode, the visible light transmittance of the second light control film 23B is lower than that in the light-transmitting mode, for example, less than 25%, preferably 20% or less, and more preferably 10% or less. When the light transmittance is lower in the light-shielding mode as described above, the inflow of heat rays can be appropriately prevented in the light-shielding mode. Furthermore, the visible light transmittance of the second light control film 23B in the light-shielding mode is more preferably 5% or less, from the viewpoint of avoiding the glare of sunlight during the day while maintaining a sense of openness outside by setting the second light control film 23B in the light-shielding mode while setting the first light control film 23A in the light-transmitting mode. Furthermore, the visible light transmittance of the second light control film 23B in the light-shielding mode is not particularly limited, but may be, for example, 0.5% or more, or may be 1% or more.

[0042] The thickness of the second light control film 23B is not particularly limited, but is, for example, 0.05 mm or more and 2 mm or less, preferably 0.1 mm or more and 1 mm or less, and more preferably 0.2 mm or more and 0.8 mm or less.

[0043] Commercially available products can be used as the second light control film 23B. Specific examples of SPD films include Hitachi Chemical Co., Ltd.'s "LCF-1103DHA" Light type [light transmission mode: visible light transmittance 45-65% (50-100V), haze value 6%, light shielding mode: visible light transmittance 3% (catalog value)] and Dark type [light transmission mode: visible light transmittance 30-53% (50-100V), haze value 6%, light shielding mode: visible light transmittance 1% (catalog value)]. Further examples of SPD films include Gauzy's "SPD." Other examples include Ynvisible's electrochromic film and Signify's "E-Skin" electrophoretic film device.

[0044] In the sun visor 20 that hangs down and covers the windshield, the second light control film 23B is preferably positioned closer to the exterior than the first light control film 23A. When the second light control film 23B is positioned on the exterior side, external light such as sunlight that enters the interior from the exterior is blocked by the second light control film 23B, reducing the amount of light that is irradiated onto the PDLC film and other components that make up the first light control film 23A. This improves the durability of the first light control film 23A, which is made of a PDLC film and other components with low light resistance, and also improves the durability of the sun visor.

[0045] (Glass Plates) The glass plates 21A and 21B may be either inorganic glass or organic glass. Examples of inorganic glass include, but are not limited to, clear glass, clear float glass, float glass, tempered glass, colored glass, polished glass, patterned glass, wired glass, striped glass, ultraviolet-absorbing glass, infrared-reflecting glass, infrared-absorbing glass, and green glass. Organic glass generally refers to resin glass, and examples include, but are not limited to, organic glass made of polycarbonate, polymethyl methacrylate, polyester, and the like. The two glass plates 21A and 21B may be made of the same material or different materials. For example, one glass plate may be inorganic glass and the other organic glass. However, it is preferred that both glass plates 21A and 21B be inorganic glass or organic glass.

[0046] The thickness of each of the glass plates 21A, 21B is not particularly limited, but is preferably 0.5 mm to 3.2 mm, more preferably 0.7 mm to 2.7 mm, and even more preferably 1.0 mm to 2.6 mm. By setting the thickness within the above range, it is possible to impart a certain level of mechanical strength to the sun visor 20 while keeping the thickness of the entire laminated glass structure at a certain level or less.

[0047] The sun visor 20 of one embodiment of the present invention preferably has a thickness of 7 mm or less. There is no particular limitation on the lower limit of the thickness of the sun visor 20 of one embodiment of the present invention, but it is, for example, 4 mm or more, preferably 5 mm or more.

[0048] (Resin Layer) As shown in FIG. 5, the glass plates 21A, 21B and the light control films 23A, 23B, and the light control films 23A, 23B are preferably bonded together via resin layers 22A-22C. While the resin layers 22A-22C and the light control films 23A, 23B are depicted in a simplified manner in FIG. 5, in practice, the resin layers 22A-22C are preferably integrated to form an intermediate film 25A, embedding the light control films 23A, 23B and the semiconductor drive boards 24A, 24B therebetween. Furthermore, gaps may form around the peripheries of the light control films 23A, 23B and the semiconductor drive boards 24A, 24B when they are embedded in the resin layers 22A-22C. To eliminate such gaps, a sealing resin layer (not shown) may be further provided around the peripheries of the light control films 23A, 23B and the semiconductor drive boards 24A, 24B. The sealing resin layer may be made of the same resin as that of the resin layers 22A to 22C.

[0049] Thermoplastic resins are preferred as the resins used for the resin layers 22A-22C. Furthermore, each of the resin layers 22A-22C preferably has high light transmittance, e.g., a resin with a visible light transmittance of 90% or higher. The thermoplastic resins used for the resin layers 22A-22C are not particularly limited, but examples include polyvinyl acetal resin, ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer resin, ionomer resin, polyurethane resin, thermoplastic elastomer, acrylic resin, acrylic-vinyl acetate copolymer resin, polyvinyl alcohol resin, polyolefin resin, polyvinyl acetate resin, and polystyrene resin. The use of these resins facilitates ensuring adhesion to the glass plates 21A and 21B. The thermoplastic resins used in the resin layers 22A-22C may be used alone or in combination of two or more. Among these, polyvinyl acetal resin is particularly preferred because it exhibits excellent adhesion to inorganic glass when a plasticizer is contained in the resin layer. Furthermore, the resin layers 22A to 22C are not limited to thermoplastic resins, and may be made of thermosetting resins such as urethane resins, or rubber materials such as silicone rubber or urethane rubber. When using a rubber material, it is preferable that the resin layer and the glass plate, or the resin layer and the light control film, are bonded together with a separately applied adhesive.

[0050] When the resin layers 22A-22C contain a thermoplastic resin, they may further contain a plasticizer. By incorporating a plasticizer into the resin layers 22A-22C, the interlayer film 25A becomes flexible. Furthermore, when the glass plates 21A and 21B, particularly the glass plates 21A and 21B, are inorganic glass, it is possible to improve adhesion to the glass plates 21A and 21B. When a polyvinyl acetal resin is used as the thermoplastic resin, incorporating a plasticizer into the layer is particularly effective. Examples of plasticizers include organic ester plasticizers such as monobasic organic acid esters and polybasic organic acid esters, and phosphate plasticizers such as organic phosphate plasticizers and organic phosphite plasticizers. Among these, organic ester plasticizers are preferred, and triethylene glycol-di-2-ethylhexanoate (3GO) is particularly preferred. The content of the plasticizer in each of the resin layers 22A to 22C is not particularly limited, but is, for example, 20 to 100 parts by mass, preferably 30 to 70 parts by mass, relative to 100 parts by mass of the thermoplastic resin. Furthermore, when each resin layer contains a thermoplastic resin, the thermoplastic resin or the thermoplastic resin and the plasticizer are the main components, and the total amount of the thermoplastic resin and the plasticizer is usually 70% by mass or more, preferably 80% by mass or more, and more preferably 90% by mass or more, based on the total amount of the resin layer.

[0051] The thickness of the intermediate film 25A is not particularly limited, but is, for example, 0.1 to 2 mm, preferably 0.2 to 2 mm, and more preferably 0.3 to 1 mm.

[0052] A sun visor according to another embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. As shown in Fig. 11, a vehicle 1 having a sun visor 20 according to another embodiment of the present invention is provided with a laminated glass structure 5 as part of the roof. The laminated glass structure 5 may be attached to the vehicle roof by fitting it into the vehicle roof. The sun visor 20 is attached as an integral part of the laminated glass structure 5 that constitutes the roof 10.

[0053] Fig. 11 shows an exploded view of the laminated glass structure 5. As shown in Fig. 11, the laminated glass structure 5 includes a first glass plate 11A, a second glass plate 11B, and an interlayer film 12 disposed between the first and second glass plates 11A and 11B, and the first glass plate 11A and the second glass plate 11B are bonded together by the interlayer film 12. The interlayer film 12 includes resin layers 12A to 12C.

[0054] The glass plates 11A and 11B and the resin layers 12A to 12C can be the same as the glass plates and resin layers described above. The light control films 23A and 23B may be embedded in the integrated resin layers 12A to 12C.

[0055] In this embodiment, each of the glass plates 11A and 11B has a structure in which the portion where the sun visor 20 is provided (hereinafter also referred to as the sun visor portion) is separated from the portion constituting the roof portion 10 as sun visor glasses 15A and 15B. On the other hand, the resin layers 12A to 12C have a structure in which the sun visor portion and the roof portion are partially separated as shown by separation portion Y (shown by a solid line in FIG. 11 ), but partially connected via a connection portion X (shown by a dotted line in FIG. 11 ). The connection portion X forms the rear end of the sun visor 20. The light control films 23A and 23B are positioned corresponding to the sun visor glasses 15A and 15B. With the above configuration, the sun visor 20 is composed of the sun visor glasses 15A and 15B, the resin layers 12A to 12C, and the light control films 23A and 23B, and is attached to the roof portion via the connection portion X. In the sun visor 20, the light control films 23A and 23B are preferably disposed so as to be embedded in the intermediate film 12 as described above. The sun visor 20 may also be provided with a semiconductor drive board or the like embedded in the intermediate film, although this is not shown.

[0056] The resins (particularly polyvinyl acetal resins) used in the resin layers 12A to 12C of the laminated glass structure generally have high adhesive strength. Therefore, the sun visor 20 is attached to the roof portion via the connecting portions X that make up the resin layers 12A to 12C, and is therefore attached to the roof portion with high holding strength. Therefore, even though the sun visor 20 includes a light control film and is relatively heavy, it can still be securely held to the roof portion via the connecting portions X, even when the weight is heavy.

[0057] The sun visor 20 preferably has a structure that allows it to rotate around the connection part X. With this structure, the sun visor 20 is fitted into the laminated glass structure 5 when not in use, and can be rotated to hang down when in use. However, the sun visor 30 may also be attached to the vehicle ceiling (not shown) or the like via a hinge (not shown), and may be configured to rotate around the hinge.

[0058] An opening 6 may be provided in the portion of the laminated glass structure 5 that constitutes the roof portion. By providing the opening 6, it is possible to provide a sunroof structure or the like on the vehicle roof. The opening 6 may be covered by an openable and closable lid or window glass provided on the vehicle roof. The sun visor according to this embodiment is incorporated into the roof portion, and is therefore integrated with the roof portion when flipped up, allowing for a more aesthetically pleasing configuration.

[0059] (Variation 1) The intermediate film 25A in the sun visor 20 of one embodiment of the present invention includes two light control films 23A, 23B. However, the sun visor of the present invention includes a first glass plate, a second glass plate, and a first intermediate film disposed between the first and second glass plates. As long as the first intermediate film includes a light control film, the number of light control films included in the intermediate film in the sun visor of the present invention is not limited to two. For example, as in the sun visor 20A shown in FIG. 6, the intermediate film 25B may include one light control film 23C. In this case, the intermediate film 25B may be composed of a first resin layer 22A and a second resin layer 22B disposed so as to sandwich the light control film 23C. The light control film 23C may be a light control film that can switch between light transmission and light scattering, such as a PDLC film, or a film that can adjust visible light transmittance, such as an electrochromic film, an SPD film, or an electrophoretic film device. However, a PDLC film or an SPD film is preferred, with a PDLC film being more preferred. Although not shown, the intermediate film may include three or more light control films. In these cases, it is also easy to provide the sun visor with a light control film.

[0060] (Modification 2) The sun visor 20 of one embodiment of the present invention includes the semiconductor drive boards 24A and 24B for driving the light control films 23A and 23B. However, the sun visor of the present invention does not necessarily need to include the semiconductor drive boards.

[0061] (Variation 3) The sun visor of one embodiment of the present invention can be further provided with a light-guiding member, a light-guiding film, a diffusion film, etc. to form a lighting unit that can emit light. The lighting unit can be used as lighting or illumination that emits light into the vehicle interior.

[0062] (Modification 4) The sun visor of one embodiment of the present invention is a sun visor that is attached to the roof of a vehicle and can hang down. However, the sun visor of the present invention is not particularly limited as long as it is a sun visor for a vehicle and is equipped with a light control film. For example, the sun visor of the present invention may be a sun visor that is attached directly to the windshield.

[0063] The sun visor 20 of one embodiment of the present invention and the sun visor of another embodiment of the present invention are merely examples of the sun visor of the present invention, and the sun visor of the present invention is not limited to the sun visor 20 of one embodiment of the present invention and the sun visor of another embodiment of the present invention.

[0064] [Information Display Device] An information display device according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. As shown in Fig. 7, an information display device 30 according to one embodiment of the present invention includes the sun visor 20 according to one embodiment of the present invention and a light source 31 that irradiates the hanging sun visor 20 with light. This allows the sun visor 20 to be used as a display that displays information, enabling occupants to view various information while maintaining their line of sight forward. The information displayed on the sun visor 20 can also be used to create a sense of space inside the vehicle.

[0065] (Light Source) The light source 31 is provided inside the vehicle. For example, as shown in FIG. 7 , the light source 31 may be provided behind the rear seat. Although not shown, the light source 31 may be provided inside the dashboard, on top of the dashboard, on the roof, or between the front and rear seats. The light source 31 may be, for example, a projector capable of projecting various images. It may be a full-color (RGB) projector or a projector that emits monochromatic light, such as an LED projector. It may also be an ultra-short-throw (UST) projector. It may also be a video display system using a digital mirror device, known as a DLP (registered trademark) projector. Furthermore, when a fixed image, such as a fixed icon or a fixed message, is to be displayed on the sun visor 20 without changing, a projector is not required. Instead, a light source that emits a constant light corresponding to the image onto the laminated glass may be used.

[0066] The information displayed on the sun visor 20 may be an image corresponding to the light from the light source 31. For example, if the light from the light source 31 is monochromatic, a monochromatic image is displayed on the sun visor 20. If the light from the light source 31 is full-color, a full-color image is displayed on the sun visor 20.

[0067] There are no particular restrictions on the information that can be displayed on the sun visor 20. For example, as shown in Fig. 8, a navigation system may be configured by displaying a map image on the sun visor 20 that shows the current location of the vehicle on a map of the area around the vehicle. Furthermore, as shown in Fig. 9, entertainment information such as movies, music, animation, games, manga, characters, etc. may be displayed on the sun visor 20.

[0068] When information is displayed on the sun visor 20, the light control film may be in a light-transmitting mode or a light-blocking mode, but it is preferable that at least one light control film is in a light-blocking mode, and if the sun visor 20 includes multiple light control films, it is more preferable that all of the multiple light control films are in a light-blocking mode. By setting the light control film to the light-blocking mode, the sun visor becomes generally opaque, allowing information from the light source 31 to be displayed appropriately.

[0069] Fig. 10 is a block diagram showing a control system for an information display device 30 according to one embodiment of the present invention. As shown in Fig. 10, the information display device 30 may include a control unit 32 and a motion sensor 33 in addition to the sun visor 20 and a light source 31. The control unit 32 controls the entire information display device 30 and is configured by a CPU or the like provided in the automobile, but is not particularly limited thereto.

[0070] The control means 32 controls the on / off of the light source 31 and the operation of the light source 31 in accordance with the information to be displayed on the sun visor 20. The control means 32 may also control the operation of the entire vehicle. The control means 32 may also switch the light control film of the sun visor 20 between a light transmission mode and a light blocking mode.

[0071] The motion sensor 33 is a sensor that detects touching of the sun visor 20 using a camera, IR sensor, ultrasonic sensor, or the like, and can detect touching without providing a conductive layer or the like on the sun visor 20. The motion sensor 33 may be a sensor that detects actions other than touch input, or may be a sensor that can detect when a person approaches the sun visor 20. A touch sensor may also be used instead of a motion sensor. In this case, it is also possible to detect touching of the sun visor 20. Examples of touch sensor types include a capacitance type and a resistive film type. A motion sensor and a touch sensor may be used together.

[0072] The light-modulating film may be switched between the light-transmitting mode and the light-blocking mode when a touch input is detected by a motion sensor or a touch sensor, or when a specific action other than a touch input is detected. Furthermore, when a specific action is detected, the information display on the sun visor 20 may be turned on or off, or the information display may be switched. Furthermore, the light-modulating film may be switched between the light-transmitting mode and the light-blocking mode, or the information display on the sun visor 20 may be turned on or off, or the information display may be switched, in response to a switch input other than a detection means such as a motion sensor or a touch sensor.

[0073] Furthermore, when the sun visor 20 is used as a motion sensor or a touch sensor, it is also preferable that the sun visor 20 display images (operation input images) of switches, buttons, a keyboard, a numeric keypad, or the like for assisting operation input. Displaying the operation input image informs the user that operation input can be performed using the sun visor 20, thereby improving usability. When the operation input image is displayed, sensor input may be used to switch the mode of the light control film, turn on / off the information display on the sun visor 20, switch the information display, etc., as described above, but any other vehicle operation may also be switched. For example, door opening / closing operations, wiper operation switching, turn on / off of turn signals, etc. may be performed.

[0074] The information display device 30 according to one embodiment of the present invention is merely one example of the information display device according to the present invention, and the information display device according to the present invention is not limited to the information display device 30 according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0075] 1, a vehicle 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention is provided with a sun visor 20 according to one embodiment of the present invention or a sun visor according to another embodiment of the present invention. Note that, since the sun visor 20 according to one embodiment of the present invention or a sun visor according to another embodiment of the present invention has already been described, a description of the sun visor 20 according to one embodiment of the present invention or a sun visor according to another embodiment of the present invention will be omitted.

[0076] A vehicle according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a roof portion having a laminated glass structure. Since the laminated glass structure has already been described, a description of the laminated glass structure will be omitted.

[0077] 12 , the vehicle 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention may include an overhead console 40 above the windshield 4 and between the pair of sun visors 20. Switches such as an air conditioner switch, a hazard lamp switch, and a windshield defogging start switch may be arranged on the overhead console 40. Switches for operating the sun visors 20 may also be arranged on the overhead console 40.

[0078] 1 is an automobile, but the vehicle of the present invention is not limited to automobiles. Examples of vehicles other than automobiles that can be used in the present invention include railway vehicles such as electric trains, steam locomotives, and trains, heavy civil engineering machinery such as forklifts and excavators, carts, and amusement park vehicles.

[0079] The vehicle 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention is merely an example of a vehicle according to the present invention, and the vehicle according to the present invention is not limited to the vehicle according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0080] REFERENCE SIGNS LIST 1 vehicle 2 guide 3 hinge 4 windshield 5 laminated glass structure 6 opening 10 roof portion 11A, 11B, 21A, 21B glass plate 12, 25A, 25B interlayer 12A, 12B, 12C, 22A, 22B, 22C resin layer 15A, 15B sun visor glass 20, 20A sun visor 23A, 23B, 23C light control film 24A, 24B semiconductor drive board 30 information display device 31 light source 32 control means 33 motion sensor 40 overhead console

Claims

1. A sun visor for a vehicle, the sun visor being equipped with a light control film.

2. The sun visor according to claim 1, comprising a first glass plate, a second glass plate, and an interlayer film disposed between the first and second glass plates, the interlayer film comprising the light control film.

3. A sun visor as described in claim 1 or 2, wherein the light control film comprises a first light control film that can be switched between a light transmission mode and a light scattering mode, and a second light control film that can adjust the visible light transmittance, and the first and second light control films are arranged in the thickness direction.

4. The sun visor according to claim 3, wherein the first light control film has a visible light transmittance of 60% or more and 100% or less, and a haze value of 0% or more and 30% or less, in a light transmission mode.

5. The sun visor according to claim 3, wherein the first light control film has a visible light transmittance of 0% or more and 40% or less, and a haze value of 70% or more and 100% or less, in a light scattering mode.

6. The sun visor according to claim 3, wherein the second light control film is switchable between a light transmission mode and a light blocking mode, and in the light transmission mode, the second light control film has a visible light transmittance of 25% or more and 100% or less, and a haze value of 0% or more and 30% or less.

7. The sun visor according to claim 3, wherein the second light control film is switchable between a light transmission mode and a light blocking mode, and in the light blocking mode, the second light control film has a visible light transmittance of 0.5% or more and less than 25%, and a haze value of less than 60%.

8. A sun visor according to claim 1 or 2, which is provided on a roof portion of a vehicle and can hang down.

9. An information display device comprising the sun visor according to claim 8 and a light source that irradiates light onto the hanging sun visor.

10. A vehicle equipped with a sun visor according to claim 1 or 2.

11. The vehicle of claim 10, wherein the vehicle comprises a roof portion having a laminated glass structure, the laminated glass structure comprising a first glass sheet, a second glass sheet, and an interlayer disposed between the first and second glass sheets, and the sun visor is attached to the laminated glass structure.

Images