Laminated glass and method for producing laminated glass

Abstract

The purpose of the present invention is to provide an esthetically excellent laminated glass in which deterioration of a functional member is reduced.　This laminated glass has a first glass plate, an intermediate adhesive layer, a functional layer, a second glass plate, and a sealing member. The first glass plate has a first main surface, a second main surface, and a first end surface that interconnects the first main surface and the second main surface. The second glass plate has a third main surface, a fourth main surface, and a second end surface that interconnects the third main surface and the fourth main surface. The intermediate adhesive layer is in contact with the second main surface and the third main surface. The functional layer is interposed between the second main surface and the third main surface. The sealing member is in contact with the first end surface and the second end surface, is disposed contiguously from the first main surface to the fourth main surface, and contains a resin material.

Description

Laminated glass and method for manufacturing laminated glass

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

[0002] Laminated glass, which is made by sandwiching an interlayer such as a resin between multiple glass sheets and then heat-pressing the glass, is widely used as window glass for vehicles such as automobiles because it does not shatter when broken and is therefore highly safe. In recent years, functional layers (layers) that have various functions and are powered by an external power source have been placed between the glass sheets. However, it is known that functional layers deteriorate due to moisture (water vapor or liquid water) and the like, causing a loss of their functionality.

[0003] For example, Patent Document 1 below discloses a window glass in which a film member (hereinafter also referred to as a light control film) capable of switching the light transmission state in response to an applied voltage from an external power source is enclosed in laminated glass. It is known that light control films deteriorate due to moisture and the like, and for example, the difference in light transmittance between the on state and the off state decreases. Deterioration of light control films can reach a size and degree that is visible, adversely affecting aesthetics.

[0004] To address this issue, various methods have been considered, such as reducing the moisture content in the interlayer film surrounding the light-control film (see Patent Document 2 below), sealing the peripheral edges of the light-control film (see Patent Documents 3 and 4 below), and providing a barrier layer on the edge of the light-control film (see Patent Document 5 below).

[0005] JP 2012-503123 A JP 2013-505188 A JP Patent No. 5619735 A JP 2015-531701 A JP 2017-186229 A

[0006] However, when the interlayer film is exposed to the external environment, water vapor or liquid water can easily penetrate the interlayer film, causing deterioration of the functional components.

[0007] The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and has an object to provide a laminated glass in which deterioration of functional members is reduced.

[0008] A laminated glass [1] according to one embodiment of the disclosure comprises a first glass plate, an intermediate adhesive layer, a functional layer, a second glass plate, and a sealing member, wherein the first glass plate has a first main surface, a second main surface, and a first edge surface connecting the first main surface and the second main surface, the second glass plate has a third main surface, a fourth main surface, and a second edge surface connecting the third main surface and the fourth main surface, the intermediate adhesive layer contacts the second main surface and the third main surface, the functional layer is located between the second main surface and the third main surface, and the sealing member contains a resin material and is continuously disposed from the first main surface to the fourth main surface so as to contact the first edge surface and the second edge surface. A laminated glass [2] according to another embodiment of the disclosure is the laminated glass [1] described above, wherein the sealing member contacts the first edge surface and the second edge surface around the entire periphery of the first glass plate and the second glass plate. Laminated glass [3] according to one embodiment of the disclosure is the laminated glass [1] or [2] described above, wherein the sealing member contacts at least one of the first main surface and the fourth main surface. Laminated glass [4] according to one embodiment of the disclosure is the laminated glass [3] described above, wherein the sealing member has an inclination at a portion contacting at least one of the first main surface and the fourth main surface, and the thickness decreases toward the inside. Laminated glass [5] according to one embodiment of the disclosure is any of the laminated glasses [1] to [4] described above, wherein the sealing member has an intermediate protrusion protruding between the first glass sheet and the second glass sheet. Laminated glass [6] according to one embodiment of the disclosure is any of the laminated glasses [1] to [5] described above, wherein the sealing member has an adhesion layer between the sealing member and the first glass sheet and between the sealing member and the second glass sheet. Laminated glass [7] according to one embodiment of the disclosure is any one of the laminated glasses [1] to [6], wherein the sealing member contains at least one resin selected from thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyurethane (PU), polypropylene (PP), ethylene propylene rubber (EPDM), acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene resin (ABS), and dynamically crosslinked thermoplastic elastomer (TPV).Laminated glass [8] according to one embodiment of the disclosure is any of the laminated glasses [1] to [7], wherein the sealing member is an injection-molded resin. Laminated glass [9] according to one embodiment of the disclosure is any of the laminated glasses [1] to [8], wherein the peripheral edge of the functional layer is spaced from the sealing member, and the intermediate adhesive layer is in contact with the sealing member. Laminated glass

[10] according to one embodiment of the disclosure is any of the laminated glasses [1] to [9], wherein the peripheral edge of the functional layer overlaps with the sealing member in a plan view. Laminated glass

[11] according to one embodiment of the disclosure is any of the laminated glasses [1] to

[10] , wherein the overlap width between the sealing member and the functional layer in a plan view is 1 mm or more. Laminated glass

[12] according to one embodiment of the disclosure is any of the laminated glasses [1] to

[11] , wherein the functional layer includes at least one of a light-control film, a light-emitting film, and a solar cell. A laminated glass

[13] according to one embodiment of the disclosure is any of the laminated glasses [1] to

[12] , wherein the functional layer is a light control film, and the light control film includes at least one of a suspended particle device, a polymer dispersed liquid crystal, a polymer network liquid crystal, a guest-host liquid crystal, and an electrochromic material.

[0009] A method <1> for manufacturing laminated glass according to one embodiment of the disclosure includes: a laminating step of preparing a laminate in which a first glass plate having a first main surface, a second main surface, and a first end surface connecting the first main surface and the second main surface, a first resin sheet, a functional layer, a second resin sheet, and a second glass plate having a third main surface, a fourth main surface, and a second end surface connecting the third main surface and the fourth main surface are laminated in this order; a bonding step of, after the laminating step, forming an intermediate adhesive layer between the first glass plate and the second glass plate in contact with the second main surface and the third main surface to bond them together; and a sealing step of, after the bonding step, forming a sealing member containing a resin material so as to be continuously arranged from the first main surface to the fourth main surface and in contact with at least the first end surface and the second end surface. A method <2> for manufacturing laminated glass according to one embodiment of the disclosure is the method <1> for manufacturing laminated glass, wherein in the sealing step, the sealing member is formed by clamping a peripheral portion of the laminate with a mold, forming a space formed by the mold and the laminate, and filling the space with the molten resin material. A method <3> for manufacturing laminated glass according to one embodiment of the disclosure is the method <2> for manufacturing laminated glass, wherein in the sealing step, the mold clamps the laminate with the mold so that it does not contact at least one of the peripheral edges of the first glass plate and the second glass plate and so that a contact surface with at least one of the first main surface and the fourth main surface does not overlap with the peripheral edge of the functional layer in a plan view.

[0010] According to one embodiment of the disclosure, it is possible to provide a laminated glass that reduces deterioration of functional members.

[0011] FIG. 1 is a plan view of laminated glass according to a first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of laminated glass according to the first embodiment. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view showing an example of the configuration of a functional layer. FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of laminated glass according to a first modified example of the first embodiment. FIG. 5 is a plan view of laminated glass according to a second embodiment. FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of laminated glass according to the second embodiment. FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view of laminated glass according to a first modified example of the second embodiment. FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of laminated glass according to a second modified example of the second embodiment. FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing a manufacturing process for laminated glass according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIGS. 10A to 10C are schematic diagrams showing a manufacturing process for laminated glass.

[0012] In this specification, "cross section" refers to the cut surface when laminated glass is cut in a specified direction. Furthermore, "periphery" refers to the outermost edge of a specified component, and "periphery" refers to the "periphery" and its vicinity. When a specified component is frame-shaped with a certain width, the "periphery" is also called the "outer edge" and may be distinguished from the "inner edge," which is the inner peripheral edge. "Same shape" and "same size" refer to having the same shape and dimensions as seen by the human eye. Unless otherwise specified, "approximately" means the same as seen by the human eye. The term "to" indicating a numerical range includes the upper and lower limits of the numerical range.

[0013] The laminated glass of the present invention can be used, for example, as window glass in buildings or window glass in vehicles (for example, windshields, side windows, quarter windows, roof windows, rear windows, and extra windows disposed further rearward than the rear window of the vehicle), and is particularly suitable for use as window glass in vehicles. Furthermore, a vehicle refers to a moving body capable of mounting laminated glass, including automobiles, trains, ships, aircraft, and the like. The laminated glass of the present invention can be particularly suitable for use as window glass in automobiles.

[0014] An example of the laminated glass of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. However, the embodiment shown in the drawings is a schematic diagram for the purpose of clearly explaining the present invention, and does not accurately represent the size or scale of an actual product.

[0015] First Embodiment A first embodiment will be described below with reference to FIGS. 1 to 3. FIG.

[0016] Fig. 1 is a plan view of a laminated glass 100 according to a first embodiment. In Fig. 1, when the laminated glass 100 is attached to a vehicle, one direction along the vehicle body is defined as the X-axis direction, one direction along the vehicle body perpendicular to the X-axis direction is defined as the Y-axis direction, and the direction perpendicular to the XY plane is defined as the Z-axis direction (the same applies to the following figures). The laminated glass 100 in Fig. 1 is, for example, a quarter window of a vehicle.

[0017] The laminated glass 100 according to this embodiment includes a first glass plate 11, an intermediate adhesive layer 20, a functional layer 30, a second glass plate 12, and a sealing member 40. The periphery of the functional layer 30 is indicated by a dotted line. The laminated glass 100 has a rectangular shape in plan view, but is not limited thereto. The laminated glass 100 may have, for example, a triangular or trapezoidal shape depending on the object to be mounted and the portion of the object. Note that in the illustrated planar shapes, the distinction between straight lines and curves, whether sides are parallel or not, the angles of vertices, and the like do not require geometric strictness.

[0018] Furthermore, "plan view" refers to viewing a predetermined region (e.g., the central portion) of a predetermined member (e.g., the first glass sheet 11) from its normal direction. In other words, it refers to viewing a predetermined region of a predetermined member in the negative direction of the Z axis (from the first glass sheet 11 toward the second glass sheet 12). Furthermore, "cross-sectional view" refers to viewing a predetermined cross section of the laminated glass 100 from its perpendicular direction. For example, it refers to viewing the XZ cross section of the laminated glass 100 in the positive direction of the Y axis.

[0019] The first glass plate 11 and the second glass plate 12 have substantially the same shape and size, and are disposed with their respective main surfaces facing each other. Therefore, in Fig. 1, the peripheries of the first glass plate 11 and the second glass plate 12 are aligned. The first glass plate 11 and the second glass plate 12 may have any shape, but are preferably rectangular, trapezoidal, or triangular, for example.

[0020] The intermediate adhesive layer 20 is a layer that bonds multiple glass plates together and includes, for example, one or more resin sheets. The intermediate adhesive layer 20 and the functional layer 30 are located between the first glass plate 11 and the second glass plate 12. The intermediate adhesive layer 20 has approximately the same shape and size as the first glass plate 11 and the second glass plate 12, and the functional layer 30 has dimensions that are smaller than the first glass plate 11 and the second glass plate 12. The periphery of the intermediate adhesive layer 20 coincides with the periphery of the first glass plate 11 and the second glass plate 12. In addition, in a plan view, the functional layer 30 overlaps the intermediate adhesive layer 20, and the periphery of the functional layer 30 is located more inward than the periphery of the intermediate adhesive layer 20.

[0021] Here, "inside" refers to a direction approaching the center of the laminated glass 100 when viewed from the periphery of a specific member (e.g., the first glass sheet 11) in a plan view. Conversely, "outside" refers to a direction away from the center of the laminated glass 100 when viewed from the periphery of the specific member (e.g., the first glass sheet 11) in a plan view.

[0022] However, the first glass plate 11, the second glass plate 12, and the intermediate adhesive layer 20 do not have to have approximately the same shape and size. For example, the second glass plate 12 and the intermediate adhesive layer 20 may have dimensions smaller than the first glass plate 11. The intermediate adhesive layer 20 may have dimensions smaller than the second glass plate 12. Furthermore, the functional layer 30 may have dimensions smaller than at least one of the first glass plate 11, the second glass plate 12, and the intermediate adhesive layer 20, and at least a portion of the periphery of the functional layer 30 may coincide with the periphery of the intermediate adhesive layer 20. Furthermore, the functional layer 30 may have approximately the same shape and size as at least one of the first glass plate 11, the second glass plate 12, and the intermediate adhesive layer 20.

[0023] Thermoplastic resins are often used as the resin sheet contained in the intermediate adhesive layer 20, and examples thereof include polyvinyl butyral (PVB) resin, ethylene vinyl acetate copolymer (EVA) resin, polyurethane resin, ionomer resin, and cycloolefin polymer resin. The thermoplastic resin is selected in consideration of the balance of various properties such as glass transition point, transparency, weather resistance, adhesive strength, penetration resistance, impact energy absorption, moisture resistance, and heat insulation. In consideration of the balance of the above properties, the thermoplastic resin is preferably PVB resin, EVA resin, or polyurethane resin, and particularly preferably PVB resin or EVA resin.

[0024] The resin sheet may contain various additives such as antioxidants, light stabilizers, adhesion modifiers, crosslinking agents, etc., in addition to conventionally known plasticizers such as triethylene glycol-di-2-ethylhexanoate. In particular, when using PVB resin, it is preferable to contain a plasticizer. The resin sheet may also contain functional particles such as infrared absorbers, ultraviolet absorbers, and luminescent agents. The intermediate adhesive layer 20 may be formed by combining two or more types of resin sheets.

[0025] Conventionally known inorganic glass or organic glass used for vehicle window glass can be selected for the first glass sheet 11 and the second glass sheet 12. The composition of the first glass sheet 11 and the composition of the second glass sheet 12 may be the same as or different from each other. As the inorganic glass, soda-lime glass, aluminosilicate glass, borosilicate glass, alkali-free glass, quartz glass, etc. can be used without any particular limitation.

[0026] The glass plate located on the vehicle exterior is preferably inorganic glass from the viewpoint of scratch resistance, and soda lime glass from the viewpoint of formability. When the glass plate is soda lime glass, clear glass, green glass containing a predetermined amount or more of iron components, and UV-cut green glass can be suitably used. The UV-cut green glass plate is a glass plate containing SiO ２ 68% by mass or more and 74% by mass or less, Fe ２ O ３and FeO in an amount of 0.05% by mass or more and 0.5% by mass or less, and has an ultraviolet transmittance of 1.5% or less at a wavelength of 350 nm and a minimum value of transmittance in the range of 550 nm or more and 1700 nm or less.

[0027] The inorganic glass is produced by any known method such as a float process. The inorganic glass may be bent and formed by any known method such as gravity forming. The inorganic glass may be untempered glass obtained by forming molten glass into a plate shape and slowly cooling it, and may be subjected to a tempering treatment such as physical tempering (e.g., air-cooling tempering) or chemical tempering, as necessary.

[0028] Examples of organic glass include transparent resins such as polycarbonate resin, acrylic resin, polystyrene resin, aromatic polyester resin, polyester resin, polyarylate resin, polycondensation product of halogenated bisphenol A and ethylene glycol, acrylic urethane resin, and halogenated aryl group-containing acrylic resin. Polycarbonate is preferred as the organic glass because it can provide a lightweight and flexible sheet. Two or more of these resins may be used in combination.

[0029] Both inorganic glass and organic glass are usually colorless, but may be colored as long as they are transparent. In the case of colored glass, so-called privacy glass, particularly dark color such as gray, may be used. Privacy glass is described in detail in, for example, WO 2015 / 088026, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Privacy glass has the effect of making it difficult to see inside the vehicle from outside, reducing the transmission of sunlight from outside to inside the vehicle, and improving the aesthetic appearance of the vehicle from inside and outside.

[0030] Privacy glass is suitable for use in areas other than windshields, particularly roof windows, side windows at the rear of a vehicle, rear windows, etc. Furthermore, inorganic glass and organic glass may have infrared absorbing and ultraviolet absorbing functions.

[0031] The functional layer 30 is a layer that operates by receiving and transmitting power from the outside of the laminated glass 100. For example, the functional layer 30 can operate by receiving power from a power source external to the laminated glass 100. Examples of such a functional layer 30 include a light-control film and a light-emitting film. The functional layer 30 may also have a power generation function and supply power to a storage battery external to the laminated glass 100. Examples of such a functional layer 30 include a solar cell. Many light-control films, light-emitting films, and solar cells are known to deteriorate due to moisture, etc. Furthermore, if the material contained in the intermediate adhesive layer 20 contains a plasticizer, the functional layer 30 may also be deteriorated by the plasticizer.

[0032] Electric power can be exchanged between the functional layer 30 and the outside of the laminated glass 100, for example, by connecting a conductive wire to the functional layer 30. The conductive wire may be thin (strip-shaped). The conductive wire may be insulated. Alternatively, electric power can be exchanged between the functional layer 30 and the outside of the laminated glass 100 in a non-contact manner by connecting a coil to the functional layer 30 and using electromagnetic induction or the like. Note that components connected to the functional layer 30 for electric power exchange are not shown in the figures.

[0033] The functional layer 30 may be any layer as long as the portion that actually performs its function forms a flat surface as a whole. Note that although coatings and films that block infrared and ultraviolet rays, resin films that emit light in response to ultraviolet rays, and resin films that improve sound insulation form a flat surface as a whole, they do not involve the exchange of power and therefore do not themselves qualify as the functional layer 30. However, this does not preclude the use of a layer that does not involve the exchange of power in the functional layer 30.

[0034] The light management film is a film that can change at least one of its visible light transmittance and haze when powered. The light management film may also change color when powered. The light management film may include at least one of liquid crystal (LC), suspended particle device (SPD), and electrochromic (EC) materials, for example.

[0035] Examples of liquid crystals (LC) used in light control films include polymer dispersed liquid crystals (PDLC), polymer network liquid crystals (PNLC), and guest host liquid crystals (GHLC).

[0036] These light management films typically have a structure in which a first substrate, a first conductive layer, an active layer or electrolyte layer, a second conductive layer, and a second substrate are laminated in this order. At least one of these components may be darkened by coloring or painting, etc., to the extent that it does not become opaque. For example, in the case of a light management film containing liquid crystal, the active layer contains at least a liquid crystal material and may contain a dichroic dye or other additives.

[0037] According to the configuration of the present invention, a force that sandwiches the peripheral edge of the functional layer 30 from above and below is unlikely to act. Therefore, when the functional layer 30 is a light control film containing liquid crystal, unevenness due to uneven distribution of the liquid crystal or the like is unlikely to occur. In other words, variations in visible light transmittance or haze due to uneven distribution of the liquid crystal or the like are unlikely to occur. Since most of the active layer of a GHLC is liquid and is easily affected by even slight uneven distribution of the liquid crystal or the like, the present invention is even more effective when the functional layer 30 is a GHLC.

[0038] When the functional layer 30 includes a light control film, the difference in visible light transmittance (Tv) between the dark state and the bright state in the portion of the laminated glass 100 having the light control film is preferably 0.1% or more, more preferably 10% or more, even more preferably 50% or more, and particularly preferably 80% or more. Tv can be measured in accordance with JIS R 3212 (2015). Note that when the laminated glass 100 has a light-shielding portion 50 (described later), the visible light transmittance may be measured inside the light-shielding portion 50, that is, in a portion that does not overlap with the light-shielding portion 50 in a planar view.

[0039] The light-emitting film is a film containing a material that emits light when powered by electricity, such as a light-emitting diode (LED) or an organic light-emitting diode (OLED). The light-emitting film preferably emits light in a flat plane. The light-emitting film may also be a display capable of displaying images or videos. The light-emitting film can also be used for direction indication, warning, and entertainment.

[0040] Solar cells are layers that generate photovoltaic power, and can be made of conventionally known materials such as silicon-based, compound-based, and organic-based materials.

[0041] The planar shape of the functional layer 30 is approximately similar to that of the first glass plate 11 in Figure 1, but it may also be approximately circular, approximately elliptical, approximately triangular, approximately rectangular, approximately trapezoidal, or n-sided (n is an integer greater than or equal to 5), etc.

[0042] The thickness of the functional layer 30 is, for example, 0.05 mm to 1.0 mm. If the thickness of the functional layer 30 is 1.0 mm or less, cracks and bubbles are less likely to occur in the laminated glass 100, and the thickness is preferably 0.8 mm or less, and more preferably 0.5 mm or less. If the thickness of the functional layer 30 is 0.05 mm or more, excellent handleability is achieved, and the thickness is preferably 0.1 mm or more.

[0043] The sealing member 40 is a member containing a resin material. The sealing member 40 is arranged so as to contact the peripheral edges of the first glass plate 11 and the second glass plate 12, with at least a portion of the sealing member 40 being arranged outside the first glass plate 11 and the second glass plate 12. By arranging the sealing member 40 in this manner, deterioration of the functional layer 30 due to penetration of moisture and the like into the intermediate adhesive layer 20 can be suppressed. In the first embodiment, the entire sealing member 40 is arranged outside the first glass plate 11 and the second glass plate 12. In other words, in a plan view, the sealing member 40 does not overlap the first glass plate 11 and the second glass plate 12. It is preferable that the sealing member 40 surrounds the entire peripheral edge of the intermediate adhesive layer 20, i.e., continuously surrounds the side surface (edge ​​surface) of the intermediate adhesive layer 20 all the way around.

[0044] The sealing member 40 may contain at least one resin selected from thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyurethane (PU), polypropylene (PP), ethylene propylene rubber (EPDM), acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene resin (ABS), and dynamically crosslinked thermoplastic elastomer (TPV). Among these, thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and polyurethane (PU) are preferred. Examples of thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) include olefin-based thermoplastic elastomer (TPO) and ethylene-based thermoplastic elastomer. Ether-based polyurethane is preferred as polyurethane (PU).

[0045] The moisture permeability of the sealing member 40 at a temperature of 40°C and a humidity of 90% RH is 1.0 g / m ２ ・day or less, and 0.5 g / m ２ It is more preferable that the density is 0.1 g / m or less. ２ It is more preferable that the period is 10 days or less.

[0046] The laminated glass 100 is provided with a light-shielding portion 50. Preferably, the light-shielding portion 50 is provided on the peripheral edge of the laminated glass 100. The light-shielding portion 50 is a frame-shaped region having a predetermined width and blocks at least visible light (wavelengths of 380 nm to 780 nm). Blocking is achieved, for example, by absorbing the target light. For example, the visible light transmittance of the light-shielding portion 50 is 5% or less, preferably 3% or less, more preferably 1% or less, and even more preferably substantially 0%. The light-shielding portion 50 preferably also blocks ultraviolet light (wavelengths of 300 nm to 380 nm) and preferably also blocks infrared light (wavelengths of 780 nm to 2,500 nm). The degree of blocking may vary depending on the wavelength of the light.

[0047] The light-shielding portion 50 is configured as a substantially opaque layer (for example, the first light-shielding layer or the second light-shielding layer described below), but it is sufficient if it can block visible light to an extent that can conceal at least the portion that needs to be concealed. For example, the light-shielding portion 50 may be configured from organic ink, colored ceramics, colored film, or the like. The light-shielding portion 50 may be any color such as black, brown, or dark blue, but a dark color is preferable, and black is more preferable.

[0048] It is preferable that the light-shielding portion 50 overlaps the peripheral portion of the functional layer 30 in a plan view. This reduces the amount of light received by the peripheral portion of the functional layer 30, making it easier to suppress deterioration that progresses from the peripheral portion of the functional layer 30. In particular, when the functional layer 30 contains liquid crystal, blocking, for example, ultraviolet light makes it easier to suppress deterioration.

[0049] FIG. 2 shows the laminated glass 100 according to the first embodiment, which is shown in FIG. １ -X ２ This is a cross-sectional view of the XZ plane viewed from the Y-axis direction at the position (hereinafter, "X １ -X ２ (also called a "cross-section").

[0050] The first glass plate 11 has a first main surface 11a, a second main surface 11b, and a first end surface 11e. The first end surface 11e connects the first main surface 11a and the second main surface 11b and forms the periphery of the first glass plate 11. The second glass plate 12 has a third main surface 12a, a fourth main surface 12b, and a second end surface 12e. The second end surface 12e connects the third main surface 12a and the fourth main surface 12b and forms the periphery of the second glass plate 12.

[0051] The first glass plate 11 and the second glass plate 12 may be flat, but it is preferable that at least one of them is curved, and it is more preferable that both of them are curved. Each of the first glass plate 11 and the second glass plate 12 may be a single-curved shape (cylindrical) that is curved in a single direction, or a complex-curved shape that is curved in two orthogonal directions.

[0052] In the first embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 , the laminated glass 100 has a curved shape, and at least the first glass sheet 11 and the second glass sheet 12 are curved in the thickness direction (Z-axis direction). Specifically, the first main surface 11a and the third main surface 12a are convex surfaces, and the second main surface 11b and the fourth main surface 12b are concave surfaces. The second main surface 11b and the third main surface 12a face each other. When the first glass sheet 11 and the second glass sheet 12 are curved in this manner, it is preferable that the concave surface of the first glass sheet 11 and the convex surface of the second glass sheet 12 face each other. Furthermore, it is preferable that the first glass sheet 11 is a glass sheet located on the exterior side of the vehicle when installed in the vehicle, and the second glass sheet 12 is a glass sheet located on the interior side of the vehicle.

[0053] The thicknesses of the first glass sheet 11 and the second glass sheet 12 can be appropriately selected depending on the type and location of the automobile in which the laminated glass 100 is used, but are generally 0.1 mm to 10 mm, respectively. Hereinafter, the thicknesses of the first glass sheet 11 and the second glass sheet 12 will be described in terms of a case in which, when the laminated glass 100 is installed in a vehicle, the first glass sheet 11 is disposed on the exterior side of the vehicle and the second glass sheet 12 is disposed on the interior side. When the thickness of the glass sheets varies, the thickness is taken to be the thickness of the thinnest portion.

[0054] From the viewpoint of resistance to stone chipping, the thickness of the first glass plate 11 is preferably 0.3 mm or more, more preferably 0.5 mm or more, even more preferably 0.7 mm or more, particularly preferably 1.1 mm or more, and most preferably 1.6 mm or more. In order to reduce the mass of the laminated glass 100, the thickness of the first glass plate 11 is preferably 3 mm or less, more preferably 2.6 mm or less, and even more preferably 2.1 mm or less.

[0055] The same can be said about the second glass plate 12 as about the first glass plate 11. The second glass plate 12 may have a different composition from that of the first glass plate 11. The second glass plate 12 may also have a different thickness from that of the first glass plate 11.

[0056] When the first glass sheet 11 and the second glass sheet 12 have different thicknesses, it is preferable in terms of resistance to stone chipping that the glass sheet located on the vehicle exterior side has a thickness greater than that of the glass sheet located on the vehicle interior side. The difference in thickness between the first glass sheet 11 and the second glass sheet 12 is preferably 0.3 mm to 1.5 mm, and more preferably 0.5 mm to 1.3 mm.

[0057] A coating that imparts water-repellent properties, hydrophilic properties, antifouling properties, anti-fingerprint properties, anti-fogging properties, electrothermal properties, infrared absorption / reflection properties, ultraviolet absorption / reflection properties, low radiation properties, low reflection properties, coloring, etc. may be provided on the main surface of at least one of the first glass plate 11 and the second glass plate 12. These coatings may be used alone or in combination. Furthermore, instead of the coating, a film exhibiting similar functions, properties, etc. may be attached to the main surface of the glass plate.

[0058] The intermediate adhesive layer 20 contacts the second main surface 11b and the third main surface 12a, bonding the first glass plate 11 and the second glass plate 12 together. In FIG. 2, the intermediate adhesive layer 20 contacts the entire surface of each of the second main surface 11b and the third main surface 12a, but as in a modified example described below, it may not be partially in contact with at least one of them. The intermediate adhesive layer 20 also contacts both main surfaces and end surfaces of the functional layer 30. In other words, the functional layer 30 is encapsulated in the intermediate adhesive layer 20. The encapsulated functional layer 30 may or may not be curved in the thickness direction (Z-axis direction).

[0059] From the viewpoint of sufficiently shearing deformation to enhance the sound insulation performance of the laminated glass, a so-called sound-insulating interlayer film may be used as the intermediate adhesive layer 20. For example, a known sound-insulating interlayer film is a multilayer film including a total of three or more layers of PVB resin having a glass transition point of 15°C or higher and PVB resin having a glass transition point of less than 15°C, arranged alternately.

[0060] The thickness of the intermediate adhesive layer 20 refers to the thickness of the portion overlapping with the functional layer 30 in a planar view, excluding the functional layer 30. If the intermediate adhesive layer 20 has multiple layers, the thickness is expressed as the total thickness of the layers. The thinnest portion of the intermediate adhesive layer 20 may be the portion overlapping with the functional layer 30 in a planar view. The thickest portion of the intermediate adhesive layer 20 may be the portion not overlapping with the functional layer 30 in a planar view.

[0061] The thickness of the intermediate adhesive layer 20 at its thinnest portion is preferably 0.5 mm or more. If the thickness of the intermediate adhesive layer 20 at its thinnest portion is 0.5 mm or more, the impact resistance required for the laminated glass 100 can be ensured. From the viewpoint of sound insulation, the thickness of the intermediate adhesive layer 20 at its thinnest portion is preferably 0.8 mm or more, more preferably 1.0 mm, preferably 1.53 mm or more, and more preferably 2.0 mm or more. Furthermore, the thickness of the intermediate adhesive layer 20 at its thickest portion is preferably 4.0 mm or less. If the thickness of the intermediate adhesive layer 20 at its thickest portion is 4.0 mm or less, the mass of the laminated glass 100 will not become too large. The thickness of the intermediate adhesive layer 20 at its thickest portion may be 3.1 mm or less, 2.8 mm or less, or 2.6 mm or less.

[0062] In the first embodiment, the sealing member 40 has a base portion 40b, which is between the surface including the first main surface 11a and the surface including the fourth main surface 12b (including their respective extended surfaces), and which does not overlap with the first glass plate 11 and the second glass plate 12 in a planar view.

[0063] The sealing member 40 is in contact with the first end surface 11e and the second end surface 12e. It is preferable that the sealing member 40 be in contact with the first end surface 11e and the second end surface 12e around the entire periphery of the first glass plate 11 and the second glass plate 12. The sealing member 40 is also in contact with the intermediate adhesive layer 20. The width of the sealing member 40, i.e., the length in the X-axis direction in FIG. 2 , is preferably 0.5 mm or more, more preferably 0.8 mm or more, even more preferably 1 mm or more, and even more preferably 2 mm or more. The upper limit of the width of the sealing member 40 is not particularly limited as long as it does not interfere with mounting the laminated glass 100 on a vehicle. When the width of the sealing member 40 varies depending on the position, it is preferable that the minimum width of the sealing member 40 be within the aforementioned range.

[0064] It is preferable that the sealing member 40 and the functional layer 30 are spaced apart. The distance d between the base portion 40b (inner edge) of the sealing member 40 and the functional layer 30 is preferably 1 mm or more, more preferably 2 mm or more, and even more preferably 3 mm or more. By spaced apart, the functional layer 30 can be protected from pressure, impact, heat, etc. that may occur when forming the sealing member 40 or when using the laminated glass 100. In particular, reducing the heat applied to the functional layer 30 is effective in suppressing deterioration of the functional layer 30.

[0065] The laminated glass may have an adhesive layer (not shown) between the sealing member 40 and the glass plate and / or between the sealing member 40 and the intermediate adhesive layer 20. In particular, it is preferable that the laminated glass has an adhesive layer between the sealing member 40 and the first end face 11 e and between the sealing member 40 and the second end face 12 e. The adhesive layer serves to firmly hold the sealing member 40 to the laminated glass 100.

[0066] The adhesive layer is, for example, a resin adhesive. Examples of the resin adhesive include urethane resins, olefin resins, phenol resins, acrylic resins, epoxy resins, silicone resins, and silane resins. The adhesive layer preferably contains a silane coupling agent such as epoxy silane.

[0067] The thickness of the adhesive layer is, for example, 0.5 μm to 50 μm. The thickness of the adhesive layer is preferably 1 μm or more, more preferably 3 μm or more, and even more preferably 5 μm or more. When the thickness of the adhesive layer is not too thin, it is easy to ensure adhesion. Furthermore, the thickness of the adhesive layer is preferably 20 μm or less, and more preferably 15 μm or less. When the thickness of the adhesive layer is not too thick, it is easy to ensure sealing properties. The range of the thickness of the adhesive layer includes the above-mentioned combinations, and is preferably 3 μm to 20 μm, and more preferably 5 μm to 15 μm. When the thickness of the adhesive layer is in this range, it is easy to prevent moisture from entering.

[0068] In the first embodiment, the entire sealing member 40 is the base portion 40b. In other words, there is no step between the sealing member 40 and the first major surface 11a, so water droplets are not trapped in the step portion. Therefore, moisture is less likely to penetrate the interface between the sealing member 40 and the first glass plate 11, making it easier to suppress an increase in the moisture content of the intermediate adhesive layer 20. Furthermore, the absence of a step also provides excellent aesthetics. The same applies to the sealing member 40 and the fourth major surface 12b.

[0069] In the example shown in FIG. 2 , the light-shielding portion 50 includes a first light-shielding layer 51 and a second light-shielding layer 52. The first light-shielding layer 51 is provided on the second major surface 11b of the first glass plate 11. The second light-shielding layer 52 is provided on the fourth major surface 12b of the second glass plate 12. These light-shielding layers make it difficult for direct sunlight and reflected light from components constituting the laminated glass 100 to irradiate the peripheral portion of the functional layer 30. This is therefore effective in suppressing deterioration of the functional layer 30. The light-shielding portion 50 may be formed of at least one of the first light-shielding layer 51 and the second light-shielding layer 52. The light-shielding portion 50 may also be formed by providing a light-shielding layer on the surface or inside of the intermediate adhesive layer 20. Note that the formation of the light-shielding portion 50 is not essential and may not be required.

[0070] The thickness of the first light-shielding layer 51 is not particularly limited, but may be, for example, in the range of 1 μm to 200 μm, and preferably in the range of 5 μm to 150 μm. When the first light-shielding layer 51 is made of organic ink or colored ceramics, the thickness of the first light-shielding layer 51 is more preferably in the range of 5 μm to 30 μm. The same applies to the second light-shielding layer 52.

[0071] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view (X ) showing an example of the configuration of the functional layer 30. １ -X ２ 1 is a cross-sectional view. Here, an example is shown in which the functional layer 30 is a light control film. The functional layer 30 has a first substrate 31, a second substrate 32, an active layer 35, and a barrier material 37. The first substrate 31 and the second substrate 32 have their main surfaces facing each other. The active layer 35 is disposed between the first substrate 31 and the second substrate 32. The first substrate 31 and the second substrate 32 are preferably sheet-shaped dielectric materials made of a transparent material, and are preferably flexible.

[0072] A barrier material 37 is disposed around (on the end surface of) the active layer 35. The barrier material 37 has a function of preventing moisture and the like from penetrating into the active layer 35. Furthermore, since the barrier material 37 contacts the intermediate adhesive layer 20, it preferably has a function of preventing a plasticizer from penetrating from the intermediate adhesive layer 20 into the active layer 35.

[0073] The barrier material 37 may be, for example, a film material such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyimide (PI), polyethylene (PE), polyamide (PA), or polyvinyl fluoride (PVF), or may be a material using any of these film materials as a base material with a pressure-sensitive adhesive applied to the surface of the base material. The barrier material 37 may also be a curable resin such as an epoxy resin or an acrylic resin. The thickness of the barrier material 37 is, for example, 20 μm to 300 μm. To prevent local thickness variations in the functional layer 30, the thickness of the barrier material 37 is preferably 200 μm or less, more preferably 100 μm or less, and even more preferably 50 μm or less.

[0074] The sealing member 40 and the barrier material 37 are preferably formed of different materials. Combining the sealing member 40 and the barrier material 37 can effectively suppress deterioration of the functional layer 30 (active layer 35). In the example of FIG. 3, the barrier material 37 is disposed between the first substrate 31 and the second substrate 32, but this arrangement is not limited thereto. The barrier material 37 may be provided as needed.

[0075] The first substrate 31 and the second substrate 32 have a transparent conductive film (not shown) formed on a main surface that is in contact with or close to the active layer 35. When a voltage is applied between the transparent conductive films, the active layer 35 is driven.

[0076] (First Modification of First Embodiment) Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along line II-II of a laminated glass 110 according to a first modification of the first embodiment. This modification will be described only in terms of differences from the laminated glass 100, and the description of the first embodiment will be used for other aspects. This modification differs from the first embodiment in that the intermediate adhesive layer 20 is not partially in contact with the first glass sheet 11 and the second glass sheet 12. It also differs from the first embodiment in that the sealing member 40 has an intermediate protrusion 40m that protrudes toward the intermediate adhesive layer 20.

[0077] The intermediate protruding portion 40m is a part of the sealing member 40 located between the first glass plate 11 and the second glass plate 12, and is formed integrally (continuously) with the base portion 40b.

[0078] The peripheral edge of the intermediate adhesive layer 20 is located inside the peripheral edges of the first glass plate 11 and the second glass plate 12. In other words, at least a portion of the peripheral edges of the first glass plate 11 and the second glass plate 12 is not in contact with the intermediate adhesive layer 20.

[0079] The distance between the periphery of the intermediate adhesive layer 20 and the periphery of the first glass plate 11 and the second glass plate 12 is, for example, 0.2 mm to 2.0 mm. The distance is preferably 0.3 mm or more, and more preferably 0.4 mm or more. If the distance is equal to or greater than the lower limit, the sealing property of the sealing member 40 can be easily improved. The distance is preferably 1.0 mm or less, more preferably 0.8 mm or less, and even more preferably 0.7 mm or less. If the distance is equal to or less than the upper limit, a decrease in strength of the periphery of the laminated glass 110 can be suppressed. A preferred combination of upper and lower limits is, for example, a range of 0.2 mm to 0.8 mm, but is not limited to this.

[0080] In addition, when one of the first glass plate 11 and the second glass plate 12 is located more inward than the other, the separation distance may be the distance from the periphery of the glass plate located more inward to the periphery of the intermediate adhesive layer 20.

[0081] In this modification, the sealing member 40 has an intermediate protrusion 40m, so that the inner edge of the sealing member 40 is located inside the peripheral edges of the first glass sheet 11 and the second glass sheet 12. The sealing member 40 contacts the second major surface 11b and the third major surface 12a at the intermediate protrusion 40m. The protrusion amount (protrusion width) of the intermediate protrusion 40m is, for example, 0.2 mm to 2.0 mm, and preferably matches the aforementioned separation distance. Matching the protrusion amount of the intermediate protrusion 40m to the separation distance makes it easier to achieve both improved sealing performance of the sealing member 40 and suppression of a decrease in strength of the peripheral portion of the laminated glass 110.

[0082] Second Embodiment Fig. 5 is a plan view of a laminated glass 200 according to a second embodiment. The peripheries of the first glass sheet 11, the second glass sheet 12, and the intermediate adhesive layer 20 are indicated by dashed lines, and the periphery of the functional layer 30 is indicated by a dotted line. This embodiment will describe the differences from the laminated glass 100 according to the first embodiment, and the description of the first embodiment will be used for the other points. This embodiment differs in that a portion of the sealing member 40 is disposed outside the first glass sheet 11 and the second glass sheet 12, and a portion of the sealing member 40 overlaps with at least one of the first glass sheet 11 and the second glass sheet 12. This configuration enables various functions to be realized.

[0083] In Fig. 5 , the sealing member 40 partially overlaps with the first glass plate 11 and the second glass plate 12. Specifically, the sealing member 40 overlaps with the peripheral edge of at least one of the first glass plate 11 and the second glass plate 12 around the entire periphery of the laminated glass 200. It can be said that the sealing member 40 preferably contacts at least one of the first main surface 11a and the fourth main surface 12b. Therefore, the inner edge of the sealing member 40 is located inside the first glass plate 11 and the second glass plate 12 in a plan view. Specifically, the sealing member 40 is continuously disposed from the outer side of the first glass plate 11 to the main surface of the first glass plate 11 in a plan view.

[0084] In a plan view, the ratio of the area of ​​the overlapping portion to the area of ​​the glass plate (e.g., first glass plate 11) overlapping with sealing member 40 is preferably 50% or less, more preferably 40% or less, and even more preferably 30% or less. Within these ranges, the window opening does not become too narrow. The lower limit of this ratio is, for example, 1% or more, but is not limited to this.

[0085] 5, the width of the sealing member 40 is different at the top and bottom edges and the left and right edges of the laminated glass 200, but it may be substantially the same around the entire periphery or may be different on at least one edge. Also, the width of the sealing member 40 may be different between one part and the remaining part on a given edge.

[0086] The inner edge of the sealing member 40 (the innermost part of the terminal protrusion described below) is located inside the peripheral edge of the functional layer 30. In other words, the peripheral edge of the functional layer 30 overlaps the sealing member 40 in a planar view. In this embodiment, the sealing member 40 may have the same function as the light-shielding portion 50. Specifically, the sealing member 40 may block at least visible light, or may block visible light and ultraviolet light. The sealing member 40 may also block infrared light. By blocking these rays of light, the sealing member 40 reduces the amount of light received by the peripheral edge of the functional layer 30, making it easier to suppress deterioration that progresses from the peripheral edge of the functional layer 30.

[0087] When the sealing member 40 is formed by injection molding or integral extrusion molding, a position inside the inner edge of the sealing member 40 is clamped by a mold during the manufacturing process of the laminated glass 200. Therefore, a load is applied to the functional layer 30. If the peripheral edge of the functional layer 30 is located at a position overlapping the position clamped by the mold in a plan view, the functional layer 30 may be damaged. Using FIG. 3 as an example, the active layer 35 may peel off from the first substrate 31 or the second substrate 32, causing a loss of function. In particular, when the functional layer 30 contains liquid crystal, the layer containing the liquid crystal may peel off from the substrate.

[0088] However, if the periphery of the functional layer 30 overlaps the sealing member 40 in a plan view, the periphery of the functional layer 30 is less likely to be pressed by the mold, and damage to the functional layer 30 can be suppressed.

[0089] The sealing member 40 may be substantially transparent. Here, "substantially transparent" does not necessarily mean colorless, but also includes coloring within a range of a visible light transmittance of 80% or more, and preferably a visible light transmittance of 90% or more. For example, the sealing member 40 may have a visible light transmittance of 80% or more at least in the overlapping portion with the glass plate.

[0090] Furthermore, the sealing member 40 may be substantially opaque. Here, "substantially opaque" means that the visible light transmittance is 3% or less, preferably 1% or less, and more preferably less than 1%. When the sealing member 40 is colored, the color is preferably a dark color such as black, navy blue, or brown, and among these, black is more preferable.

[0091] When the sealing member 40 is substantially transparent or dark in color, it is easy to harmonize in color with the light-shielding portion 50, and is therefore aesthetically pleasing. When the sealing member 40 is dark in color, it is easy to reduce the amount of light received by the peripheral portion of the functional layer 30 over a wide wavelength range.

[0092] The second embodiment may be combined with the first embodiment. For example, the sealing member 40 may overlap with at least one of the first glass plate 11 and the second glass plate 12 along some edges of the laminated glass 200, and may not overlap with either the first glass plate 11 or the second glass plate 12 along the other edges. The aspect in which the sealing member 40 does not overlap with either the first glass plate 11 or the second glass plate 12 is, for example, the structure described in the first embodiment.

[0093] FIG. 6 shows the X of the laminated glass 200 according to the second embodiment. １ -X ２ 1 is a cross-sectional view of the sealing member 40. In addition to the base portion 40b, the sealing member 40 has a terminal protrusion 40e and a connecting portion 40c.

[0094] The terminal protrusion 40e is a part of the sealing member 40 located in the positive direction of the Z axis relative to the first main surface 11a or in the negative direction of the Z axis relative to the fourth main surface 12b. In the laminated glass 200, the terminal protrusion 40e protrudes inward from the periphery of the first glass plate 11 and contacts the first main surface 11a. The connecting portion 40c is a portion that connects the base portion 40b and the terminal protrusion 40e. The base portion 40b, the connecting portion 40c, and the terminal protrusion 40e are formed integrally (continuously) and preferably made of the same material. The sealing member 40 also contacts the intermediate adhesive layer 20.

[0095] In this embodiment, the sealing member 40 has a terminal protrusion 40e, which can prevent peeling between the base portion 40b and the first end surface 11e, making it easier to maintain watertightness over the long term. The protrusion amount of the terminal protrusion 40e is preferably 2 mm or more, more preferably 3 mm or more, even more preferably 4 mm or more, and even more preferably 5 mm or more. The protrusion amount of the terminal protrusion 40e is preferably greater than the distance d between the base portion 40b and the functional layer 30. The protrusion amount of the terminal protrusion 40e may be, for example, 50 mm or less, 30 mm or less, or 20 mm or less.

[0096] In plan view, the overlap width between the sealing member 40 and the functional layer 30 is preferably 1 mm or more, more preferably 2 mm or more, and even more preferably 3 mm or more. In other words, it is preferable that the terminal protrusion 40e overlaps the periphery of the functional layer 30 in plan view. In plan view, the overlap width between the sealing member 40 and the functional layer 30 may be, for example, 49 mm or less, 40 mm or less, 30 mm or less, 20 mm or less, or 10 mm or less. The smaller the overlap width between the sealing member 40 and the functional layer 30, the larger the area in which the functional layer 30 is visible.

[0097] If the periphery of the functional layer 30 overlaps the sealing member 40 in a plan view, the periphery of the functional layer 30 is less likely to be pressed by the mold, and damage to the functional layer 30 can be suppressed.

[0098] The thickness of the terminal protrusion 40e (length in the Z-axis direction) is preferably smaller than the width of the base portion 40b (length in the X-axis direction). The thickness of the terminal protrusion 40e is preferably less than 2 mm, more preferably less than 1 mm, even more preferably less than 0.8 mm, and even more preferably less than 0.5 mm. The thickness of the terminal protrusion 40e is preferably 0.1 mm or more, more preferably 0.2 mm or more, more preferably 1 mm or more, and even more preferably 2 mm or more. If the thickness of the terminal protrusion 40e is 0.1 mm or more, the sealing member 40 is less likely to break.

[0099] In the example of Fig. 6, the terminal protrusion 40e is inclined, and its thickness decreases toward the inside of the first glass plate 11. This reduces the step between the sealing member 40 and the first main surface 11a, preventing water droplets from being trapped in the step. It also prevents peeling of the terminal protrusion 40e. Note that the inclination does not need to be provided over the entire terminal protrusion 40e as shown in Fig. 6; it is sufficient that the inclination, which increases in thickness at least toward the outside (toward the connection portion 40c), begins at the inner edge of the terminal protrusion 40e.

[0100] An adhesive layer may be provided between the terminal protrusion 40e and the first glass plate 11, specifically between the terminal protrusion 40e and the first main surface 11a.

[0101] FIG. 7 shows the X of a laminated glass 210 according to a first modified example of the second embodiment. １ -X ２ In this modification, differences from the laminated glass 200 according to the second embodiment will be described, and the description of the second embodiment will be used for other points. This modification differs from the laminated glass 200 according to the second embodiment in that the terminal protrusion 40 e of the sealing member 40 protrudes inward from the peripheral edge of the second glass plate 12 and contacts the fourth main surface 12 b.

[0102] In this modification, there is no step between the sealing member 40 and the first main surface 11a, so water droplets are not trapped in the step. Therefore, moisture is less likely to penetrate the interface between the sealing member 40 and the first glass plate 11, making it easier to suppress an increase in the moisture content of the intermediate adhesive layer 20. Furthermore, the absence of a step also provides excellent aesthetics.

[0103] Furthermore, in this modification, direct contact between the laminated glass 210 and the vehicle body frame (window frame) is avoided when the laminated glass 210 is assembled. This helps prevent peeling or damage to the base portion 40b and the second end surface 12e. Furthermore, the distal protrusion 40e helps prevent water droplets from condensing on the fourth main surface 12b from penetrating into the intermediate adhesive layer 20.

[0104] In this modification, it is also preferable that the peripheral edge of the functional layer 30 overlaps the sealing member 40 in a planar view. That is, it is preferable that the terminal protrusion 40e overlaps the peripheral edge of the functional layer 30 in a planar view. When the sealing member 40 is formed by injection molding or integral extrusion molding, damage to the functional layer 30 can be suppressed.

[0105] An adhesive layer may be provided between the terminal protrusion 40e and the second glass plate 12, specifically between the terminal protrusion 40e and the fourth major surface 12b.

[0106] FIG. 8 shows the X of a laminated glass 220 according to a second modification of the second embodiment. １ -X ２ 1 is a cross-sectional view. In this modification, differences from the laminated glass 200 according to the second embodiment will be described, and the description of the second embodiment will be used for other points. In this modification, the sealing member 40 has end protrusions 40e_1, 40e_2 and connecting portions 40c_1, 40c_2, protrudes inward from the peripheral edges of the first glass plate 11 and the second glass plate 12, and is in contact with the first main surface 11a and the fourth main surface 12b.

[0107] The inner edge of the terminal protrusion 40e may be located at the same position on the first glass sheet 11 side and the second glass sheet 12 side, or may be located at different positions. In the example of FIG. 8 , the inner edge of the terminal protrusion 40e on the second glass sheet 12 side (the inner edge of the terminal protrusion 40e_2) is located outward from the inner edge on the first glass sheet 11 side (the inner edge of the terminal protrusion 40e_1). In other words, in a plan view, the distance w1 from the periphery of the functional layer 30 to the inner edge of the sealing member 40 on the first glass sheet 11 side is greater than the distance w2 from the inner edge on the second glass sheet 12 side. This configuration effectively protects the periphery of the functional layer 30 from various light rays and increases the apparent opening area (the area of ​​the region where the fourth major surface 12b and the sealing member 40 do not overlap) seen by vehicle occupants.

[0108] In this modification, it is also preferable that the peripheral edge of the functional layer 30 overlaps the sealing member 40 in a plan view. That is, it is preferable that the terminal protrusions 40e_1 and 40e_2 overlap the peripheral edge of the functional layer 30 in a plan view.

[0109] (Method for manufacturing laminated glass according to one embodiment of the present invention) Next, an example of a method for manufacturing laminated glass will be described with reference to Fig. 9 and Figs. 10A to 10C. Fig. 9 is a flowchart of the method for manufacturing laminated glass. Figs. 10A to 10C are schematic diagrams showing a method for manufacturing laminated glass 220. The method for manufacturing laminated glass is broadly divided into a laminating step (S100), a bonding step (S200), and a sealing step (S300).

[0110] The lamination process (S100) is a process of preparing a laminate L100 in which a first glass plate 11, a resin sheet 20A, a functional layer 30, a resin sheet 20B, and a second glass plate 12 are laminated in this order, as shown in Figure 10A.

[0111] The resin sheets 20A and 20B are components that form the intermediate adhesive layer 20 of the laminated glass 220 in the bonding step (S200) described below. Note that an additional resin sheet may be prepared in addition to the resin sheets 20A and 20B. For example, the additional resin sheet may be in the shape of a frame (picture frame) that surrounds the outside of the functional layer 30.

[0112] For example, when manufacturing a curved laminated glass such as the laminated glass 220, at least one of the first glass sheet 11 and the second glass sheet 12 is bent into a curved shape in advance. In the example shown in Figures 10A to 10C, both the first glass sheet 11 and the second glass sheet 12 are bent into a curved shape. Furthermore, although the first light-shielding layer 51 and the second light-shielding layer 52 are formed on the concave surfaces of the first glass sheet 11 and the second glass sheet 12, i.e., on the second main surface 11b and the fourth main surface 12b, respectively, the positions at which the first light-shielding layer 51 and the second light-shielding layer 52 are formed are not limited thereto. For example, the first light-shielding layer 51 may be formed on the resin sheet 20A, and the second light-shielding layer 52 may be formed on the resin sheet 20B.

[0113] The lamination procedure is not particularly limited. The lamination may be performed in order from the first glass plate 11, or from the second glass plate 12. Alternatively, for example, a laminate including the resin sheet 20A, the functional layer 30, and the resin sheet 20B may be formed first, and then the laminate may be sandwiched between the first glass plate 11 and the second glass plate 12.

[0114] The bonding step (S200) is a step of forming an intermediate adhesive layer 20 between the first glass plate 11 and the second glass plate 12, contacting the second main surface 11b and the third main surface 12a to bond them together. The laminate L100 prepared in the lamination step (S100) is placed in, for example, a rubber bag, and the rubber bag is subjected to primary pressure bonding while controlled at a temperature of 100°C to 140°C and an absolute pressure of 0.01 MPa to 0.1 MPa. The pressure applied to the rubber bag during primary pressure bonding can be generated, for example, by suctioning air from the rubber bag. Subsequently, secondary pressure bonding is performed in an autoclave while further controlled at a temperature of 120°C to 140°C and an absolute pressure of 0.5 MPa to 1.4 MPa. This results in a laminate L200 having a predetermined intermediate adhesive layer 20 formed thereon, as shown in FIG. 10B .

[0115] The temperature and pressure conditions in the bonding step (S200) may be adjusted as appropriate depending on the type of resin sheets included in the laminate L100. For example, when the resin sheets 20A and 20B are made of EVA, only primary pressure bonding may be performed without secondary pressure bonding. A rubber channel or the like may be used instead of the rubber bag.

[0116] The bonding step (S200) may also include a step of partially cutting away the intermediate adhesive layer 20 of the laminate L200. For example, the side surface (end surface) of the intermediate adhesive layer 20 may be cut away continuously around the entire circumference. That is, the end surface of the intermediate adhesive layer 20 may be formed into a concave shape recessed inward. The intermediate adhesive layer 20 may be cut away using a cutter or the like.

[0117] The sealing step (S300) is a step of forming a sealing member containing a resin material so as to contact at least the first end surface 11e and the second end surface 12e. The sealing member can be provided by, for example, injection molding. Injection molding will be described below. First, the peripheral edge of the laminate L200 is clamped by a mold 60. Specifically, the laminate L200 is clamped in its thickness direction (Z-axis direction) between a first mold 61 and a second mold 62, and then the molds are clamped to form a space 68. The space 68 is a space formed by the first mold 61, the second mold 62, and the laminate L200, and has a shape that approximately matches the shape of the sealing member of the manufactured laminated glass.

[0118] Furthermore, an elastic material such as tape or rubber may be provided on the surface of the mold 60 that contacts the glass plate, or an elastic material may be embedded in the mold 60. This allows the glass plate to be softly clamped, thereby preventing the glass plate from cracking.

[0119] When the mold 60 is shaped so as not to contact at least one of the peripheries of the first glass plate 11 and the second glass plate 12, in other words, when the space 68 includes at least one of the first main surface 11a and the fourth main surface 12b, the pressure exerted by clamping the mold 60 is concentrated on a portion inside the periphery of the laminate L200. In this case, it is preferable that the mold 60 clamp the laminate L200 so that the contact surface with at least one of the first main surface 11a and the fourth main surface 12b does not overlap with the periphery of the functional layer 30 in a planar view. In other words, it is preferable that the periphery of the functional layer 30 is located inside or outside the area overlapping with the contact surface of the mold 60 with the first main surface 11a and the fourth main surface 12b in a planar view. By clamping the laminate L200 in this manner, damage to the functional layer 30 can be suppressed.

[0120] By positioning the peripheral edge of the functional layer 30 inside the region overlapping with the contact surface with at least one of the first main surface 11 a and the fourth main surface 12 b of the mold 60 in a plan view, the sealing member has a significant effect of protecting the functional layer 30 from moisture and the like, and is also able to easily accommodate a larger area of ​​the functional layer 30. In the example shown in Figure 10C, the peripheral edge of the functional layer 30 is positioned outside the region overlapping with the contact surfaces with both the first main surface 11 a and the fourth main surface 12 b of the mold 60 in a plan view. By positioning the peripheral edge of the functional layer 30 outside the region overlapping with the contact surface with at least one of the first main surface 11 a and the fourth main surface 12 b of the mold 60 in a plan view, the effects of heat and pressure from the molten resin are reduced, and damage to the functional layer 30 can be suppressed.

[0121] Next, molten resin material is injected into the space 68 through an injection port 65 provided in at least one of the first mold 61 and the second mold 62. As an example, the injection port 65 is provided in the first mold 61 facing the second mold 62. Before injecting the molten resin material into the space 68, an adhesion layer may be formed on the laminate L200 at a location where the molten resin material will come into contact.

[0122] The adhesive layer may be provided, for example, on the first end surface 11 e and the second end surface 12 e. Alternatively, an adhesive layer may be additionally provided on at least one of the first main surface 11 a and the fourth main surface 12 b. Similarly, an adhesive layer may be additionally provided on the end surface of the intermediate adhesive layer 20.

[0123] The molten resin injected from the injection port 65 is filled into the space 68, and then the resin is hardened by maintaining it at an appropriate temperature, and the laminate L200 is removed from the mold 60. That is, the first mold 61 and the second mold 62 are released from the clamped state and separated. This produces the laminated glass 220 shown in FIG. 8.

[0124] As described above, the method for manufacturing laminated glass according to one embodiment of the present invention has been described using laminated glass 220 as an example, but the method for manufacturing laminated glass according to one embodiment of the present invention is not limited to the described embodiment. For example, these laminated glasses can be manufactured by using molds 60 (first mold 61 and second mold 62) with shapes corresponding to the sealing members of laminated glasses 100, 110, 200, and 210. It is also possible to mold the sealing members separately using a mold and attach them to predetermined positions on the laminated glass by bonding them.

[0125] [Examples] The following description will be given using Examples 1 to 5, but the present invention is not limited to these.

[0126] Example 1: A 0.7 mm thick glass plate (vehicle interior glass plate) that would serve as the inner plate when laminated with glass and a 2 mm thick glass plate (vehicle exterior glass plate) that would serve as the outer plate were prepared (manufactured by AGC, commonly known as VFL). Three 0.38 mm thick thermoplastic resin sheets (Solutia Japan, PVB, thickness 0.38 mm) were also prepared. The two glass plates had black ceramic screen-printed on their peripheries as a light-shielding portion, and were pre-formed into a desired curved shape by hot bending.

[0127] Next, a light-control film was prepared using a 125 μm-thick PET film with a transparent conductive film formed thereon, sandwiching a 16 μm-thick liquid crystal (PDLC) between the two films and connecting conductive wires. The outer dimensions of the light-control film (excluding the conductive wires) were approximately 10 mm smaller than those of the glass plate. The edges (all periphery) of the light-control film were protected with an acrylic UV-curable resin as a barrier material to prevent the liquid crystal from being exposed to the outside. The acrylic UV-curable resin was in contact with the two PET films and the liquid crystal.

[0128] Next, a 10 mm wide frame-shaped cutout was made in one of the three thermoplastic resin sheets so that it would fit the outer shape of the light-control film. An assembly was then constructed in the following order: interior glass sheet / PVB / light-control film housed in the frame-shaped PVB / PVB / exterior glass sheet. The assembly was then placed in a rubber bag and bonded at a temperature of approximately 70°C to 110°C in a vacuum with a gauge pressure of -65 kPa to -100 kPa. A laminate was then produced by heating and pressurizing at a temperature of 100°C to 150°C and an absolute pressure of 0.6 MPa to 1.3 MPa. In the produced laminate, the three PVB sheets were integrated.

[0129] Next, a sealing member was formed around the periphery of the laminate by injection molding to obtain a laminated glass. Specifically, an adhesive layer (Hamatite, manufactured by Sika Corporation) was first formed with a thickness of 50 μm or less on the sides and surfaces of two glass plates located around the periphery of the laminate. Next, a portion of the laminate corresponding to a position 6 mm inward from the periphery of the light control film was clamped between molds (upper and lower molds) of a predetermined shape. At this time, the molds were not in contact with the peripheries of the two glass plates. Finally, a molten olefin-based thermoplastic elastomer was filled into the space formed by the laminate and the molds and slowly cooled to obtain a laminated glass with the structure shown in FIG. 8. The width of the terminal protrusions 40e_1 and 40e_2 was 16 mm, and the width (length in the X-axis direction) of the base portion 40b was 2 mm.

[0130] Example 2 In Example 2, a laminated glass having the structure shown in FIG. 8 was obtained in the same manner as in Example 1, except that polyvinyl chloride was used instead of the olefin-based thermoplastic elastomer.

[0131] Example 3 In Example 3, the same laminate as in Example 1 was formed, and then a sealing member was provided using a different material and method from Example 1. In Example 3, an acrylic UV-curable resin (AICA ITRON Z-590VM, manufactured by AICA Kogyo Co., Ltd.) was applied to the peripheral edge of the laminate, on the side and front surfaces of the two glass plates and the side surface of the integrated PVB, to a thickness of approximately 50 μm, and then cured to form a sealing member. The overlap width with the surfaces of the two glass plates was 5 mm. A laminated glass having the structure shown in FIG. 8 was then obtained.

[0132] Example 4 In Example 4, the same laminate as in Example 1 was formed, and then a sealing member was provided using a different material and method from Example 1. In Example 4, a tape (manufactured by Nitto Denko Corporation, No. 31B 75 High) having an acrylic resin adhesive layer and a polyester substrate was attached in a U-shape to the periphery of the laminate, so as to contact the side and front surfaces of the two glass plates and the side surface of the integrated PVB. The total thickness of the tape was 53 μm, the thickness of the substrate was 25 μm, and the overlap width with the surfaces of the two glass plates was 5 mm. A laminated glass having the structure shown in FIG. 8 was then obtained.

[0133] Example 5 In Example 5, a laminated glass having the structure shown in Fig. 8 was obtained in the same manner as in Example 4, except that the type of tape was changed to a tape having an adhesive layer made of a silicone resin and a substrate made of polyimide (No. 360UL PLASIN, manufactured by Nitto Denko Corporation). In Example 5, the total thickness of the tape was 60 µm, and the thickness of the substrate was 25 µm.

[0134] In Example 6, a laminate (laminated glass) was formed in the same manner as in Example 1, except that no barrier material was provided on the end surface (entire periphery) of the light control film. In addition, neither an adhesive layer nor a sealing member was provided on the laminate.

[0135] [Evaluation of Deterioration of Functional Layer] The deterioration of the functional layer (light-control film) included in the laminated glass shown in Examples 1 to 6 was evaluated. First, two sets of laminated glass shown in Examples 1 to 6 were prepared. One set was immersed in hot water at 40°C, and the other set was immersed in hot water at 80°C, and each was left for 200 hours. After leaving them, they were removed and thoroughly dried. Next, a power source was connected to the laminated glass, and when the glass was turned on and off, the width (deterioration width) at which a predetermined change in transmittance no longer occurred was measured, based on the periphery of the light-control film. In addition, the appearance of the sealing member after drying was observed. The evaluation results for each laminated glass are shown in Table 1. The overall evaluation was ranked from the best example to the worst example, with excellent, good, fair, and poor.

[0136]

[0137] In the laminated glasses of Examples 1 and 2, the deterioration width of the light control film was 0 mm when immersed in hot water at both 40°C and 80°C. Furthermore, the sealing member did not peel off from the laminate, and no discoloration occurred. Compared to Example 6, which did not have a sealing member, the laminated glasses of Examples 1 and 2 can be said to be able to significantly reduce deterioration of the functional members and to have very excellent durability and aesthetics in a high-temperature water environment. It was found that the sealing members of Examples 1 and 2 can be suitably used in positions that are easily visible from the inside or outside of the vehicle (for example, positions overlapping the main surface of the laminate), as well as in other positions.

[0138] In the laminated glass of Example 3, the deterioration width of the light control film was 0 mm when immersed in hot water at both 40°C and 80°C. The sealing member did not peel off from the laminate, but whitening of the resin was confirmed after 200 hours of hot water immersion. This is thought to be due to water absorption by the outermost surface of the acrylic UV-curable resin, which caused the surface to become cloudy due to denaturation, but this cause is not limited to this. From these results, it can be said that the laminated glass of Example 3 can significantly reduce deterioration of the functional member compared to Example 6, which did not have a sealing member. It can also be said that it has a certain degree of durability and aesthetics even in a high-temperature water environment.

[0139] In the laminated glass of Example 4, the deterioration width of the light control film was 1 mm when immersed in hot water at 40°C and 3 mm when immersed in hot water at 80°C. In the laminated glass of Example 5, the deterioration width of the light control film was 1 mm when immersed in hot water at 40°C and 6 mm when immersed in hot water at 80°C. In both Examples 4 and 5, the sealing member did not peel off from the laminate, but discoloration of the tape was confirmed after 200 hours of hot water immersion. This is thought to be due to water absorption and clouding of the adhesive layer, but the cause is not limited to this. Note that clouding in Examples 4 and 5 was more advanced than in Example 3. From these results, it can be said that the laminated glasses of Examples 4 and 5 can reduce the degradation of the functional components to a certain extent compared to Example 6, which did not have a sealing member. It can also be said that they have a certain degree of durability and aesthetics even in a high-temperature water environment. In the laminated glasses of Examples 3 to 5, it was found that the sealing member of Example 3 could be suitably used in a position that is difficult to see from the inside or outside of the vehicle (for example, a side surface of the laminate or a position overlapping with the main surface and the light-shielding part of the laminate) from the viewpoint of making whitening of the resin and discoloration of the tape less noticeable.

[0140] In the laminated glass of Example 6, the deterioration width of the light control film was 3 mm when immersed in hot water at 40° C. and 8 mm when immersed in hot water at 80° C. Furthermore, whitening of the PVB was confirmed at the peripheral edge of the laminated glass. Even if the edge (entire periphery) of the light control film was protected with a barrier material, without providing a sealing member, the deterioration of the light control film could not be sufficiently suppressed, and this was unacceptable from the viewpoint of aesthetics.

[0141] [Functional Layer Peel Durability Test] The same materials as in Example 1 were prepared, and a laminate was produced in the same manner as in Example 1. However, this example differed from Example 1 only in that, in the subsequent sealing member formation process, the portion of the laminate corresponding to the periphery of the light control film was clamped between molds (upper and lower molds) of a predetermined shape. In this way, a test piece (laminated glass) was obtained in which the width of the terminal protrusions 40e_1 and 40e_2 was shorter than that of the laminated glass structure shown in FIG. 8, and the periphery of the light control film was located relatively more inward than the inner edge of the sealing member 40. In other words, in the test piece, the terminal protrusions do not overlap with the periphery of the light control film in a planar view. The peel durability of the light control film was evaluated for each of the test piece and the laminated glass of Example 1 produced separately. After applying a high AC voltage of 135 V continuously for 1,500 hours in a high-temperature environment at a temperature of 85°C, the appearance of the test piece and the laminated glass of Example 1 was observed. As a result, multiple defects resembling stains were confirmed along the periphery of the light control film of the test piece. In addition, the transmittance at the defective portion hardly changed when the device was turned on and off. Furthermore, when a cross section of the test specimen was observed using a scanning electron microscope (SEM), it was found that there was almost no liquid crystal at the defective portion and the layer thickness was uneven. On the other hand, in the laminated glass of Example 1, no such defects were found at the periphery of the light-control film. It is thought that in the test specimen, when the sealing member was formed, residual stress was generated in the light-control film, compressing it in a direction approximately perpendicular to the main surface. During the peel durability test, the liquid crystal peeled off from the substrate, crushing the light-control film (releasing the stress), causing the defect. However, this theory is not limited to this. These results demonstrate that by forming a sealing member on the laminate so that the periphery of the functional layer is located in an area that does not overlap with the contact surface of the mold with the laminate in a planar view, damage to the functional layer is suppressed, and particularly excellent laminated glass can be obtained. The entire contents of the specification, claims, drawings and abstract of Japanese Patent Application No. 2023-144340 filed on September 6, 2023 are hereby incorporated by reference as the disclosure of the specification of the present invention.

[0142] 100, 110, 200, 210, 220 Laminated glass 11 First glass plate 11a First main surface 11b Second main surface 11e First end surface 12 Second glass plate 12a Third main surface 12b Fourth main surface 12e Second end surface 20 Intermediate adhesive layer 20A, 20B Resin sheet 30 Functional layer 31 First substrate 32 Second substrate 35 Active layer 37 Barrier material 40 Sealing member 40b Base portion 40c Connection portion 40e End protrusion 40m Intermediate protrusion 50 Light-shielding portion 51 First light-shielding layer 52 Second light-shielding layer 60 Mold 61 First mold 62 Second mold 65 Injection port 68 Space portion

Claims

1. A laminated glass comprising a first glass plate, an intermediate adhesive layer, a functional layer, a second glass plate, and a sealing member, wherein the first glass plate has a first main surface, a second main surface, and a first end surface connecting the first main surface and the second main surface, the second glass plate has a third main surface, a fourth main surface, and a second end surface connecting the third main surface and the fourth main surface, the intermediate adhesive layer contacts the second main surface and the third main surface, the functional layer is located between the second main surface and the third main surface, and the sealing member includes a resin material and is continuously disposed from the first main surface to the fourth main surface so as to contact the first end surface and the second end surface.

2. The laminated glass according to claim 1, wherein the sealing member contacts the first end surface and the second end surface over the entire periphery of the first glass sheet and the second glass sheet.

3. The laminated glass according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the sealing member is in contact with at least one of the first main surface and the fourth main surface.

4. The laminated glass according to claim 3, wherein the sealing member has an inclination at a portion in contact with at least one of the first main surface and the fourth main surface, and the thickness decreases toward the inside.

5. The laminated glass according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the sealing member has an intermediate protrusion protruding between the first glass sheet and the second glass sheet.

6. The laminated glass according to any one of claims 1 to 5, further comprising an adhesive layer between the sealing member and the first glass plate and between the sealing member and the second glass plate.

7. The laminated glass according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the sealing member contains at least one resin selected from the group consisting of thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyurethane (PU), polypropylene (PP), ethylene propylene rubber (EPDM), acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene resin (ABS), and dynamically crosslinked thermoplastic elastomer (TPV).

8. The laminated glass according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the sealing member is an injection molded resin.

9. The laminated glass according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the peripheral edge of the functional layer is spaced from the sealing member, and the intermediate adhesive layer is in contact with the sealing member.

10. The laminated glass according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein a peripheral portion of the functional layer overlaps with the sealing member in a plan view.

11. The laminated glass according to claim 10, wherein the overlap width between the sealing member and the functional layer in a plan view is 1 mm or more.

12. The laminated glass according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the functional layer includes at least one of a light control film, a light emitting film, and a solar cell.

13. The laminated glass according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the functional layer is a light control film, and the light control film includes at least one of a suspended particle device, a polymer dispersed liquid crystal, a polymer network liquid crystal, a guest-host liquid crystal, and an electrochromic material.

14. A method for manufacturing laminated glass, comprising: a lamination step of preparing a laminate in which a first glass plate having a first main surface, a second main surface, and a first end surface connecting the first main surface and the second main surface, a first resin sheet, a functional layer, a second resin sheet, and a second glass plate having a third main surface, a fourth main surface, and a second end surface connecting the third main surface and the fourth main surface are laminated in this order; a bonding step of forming, after the lamination step, an intermediate adhesive layer between the first glass plate and the second glass plate in contact with the second main surface and the third main surface to bond them together; and a sealing step of forming, after the bonding step, a sealing member containing a resin material so as to be continuously arranged from the first main surface to the fourth main surface and in contact with at least the first end surface and the second end surface.

15. A method for manufacturing laminated glass as described in claim 14, wherein in the sealing step, the sealing member is formed by clamping the peripheral portion of the laminate with a mold, forming a space between the mold and the laminate, and filling the space with molten resin material.

16. A method for manufacturing laminated glass as described in claim 15, wherein in the sealing step, the mold clamps the laminate such that it does not come into contact with at least one of the peripheral edges of the first glass plate and the second glass plate and such that the contact surface with at least one of the first main surface and the fourth main surface does not overlap with the peripheral edge of the functional layer in a planar view.

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