Light control film, laminated glass, and window glass for vehicle

Abstract

The present invention achieves proper lighting.　A light control film 15, wherein a first transparent electrode layer has a first segment 20, a second segment 23, and a sub-segment 26 that are not electrically connected to each other. The first segment 20 includes: a first extension part extending in a first direction orthogonal to a lamination direction of the first transparent electrode layer and a second transparent electrode layer; and a first protruding part protruding from the first extension part in a second direction orthogonal to the lamination direction and the first direction. The second segment 23 includes: a second extension part located to the second direction relative to the first extension part and extending in the first direction; and a second protruding part protruding in a third direction opposite to the second direction from the second extension part and located at a different position in the first direction from the first protruding part. The sub-segment 26 includes a plurality of sub-protruding parts aligned in the first direction, and at least one of the first protruding part and the second protruding part is present between the sub-protruding parts.

Description

Light control film, laminated glass, and vehicle window glass

[0001] The present invention relates to a light control film, a laminated glass, and a vehicle window glass.

[0002] Light-control films are known that can switch between transparent and opaque glass by turning a switch on and off, and are used in vehicles, buildings, etc. For example, Patent Document 1 listed below discloses a technology in which a transparent electrode is divided into strips and each of the divided transparent electrodes is individually driven to adjust the size of the light-control area.

[0003] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2020-126153

[0004] In the technology of Patent Document 1, the light control film is divided into strips, but the area of ​​each divided light control region is large, which may make it difficult to properly control the degree of light control. Therefore, there is a need for a light control film that can properly control the degree of light control.

[0005] The present invention has been made in view of the above-mentioned problems, and has an object to provide a light control film, laminated glass, and vehicle window glass that are capable of appropriately controlling the degree of light control.

[0006] The light control film according to the present disclosure is a light control film having a first transparent electrode layer and a second transparent electrode layer to which a voltage is applied, and a light control layer provided between the first transparent electrode layer and the second transparent electrode layer, wherein the light control film has a first segment, a second segment, and a sub-segment that are electrically disconnected from each other, the first segment comprising a first extension portion extending in a first direction perpendicular to the stacking direction of the first transparent electrode layer and the second transparent electrode layer, and a first protrusion portion protruding from the first extension portion in a second direction perpendicular to the stacking direction and the first direction, the second segment comprising a second extension portion positioned in the second direction relative to the first extension portion and extending in the first direction, and a second protrusion portion protruding from the second extension portion in a third direction opposite to the second direction and at a different position in the first direction from the first protrusion, the sub-segment comprising a plurality of sub-protrusions aligned in the first direction, and at least one of the first protrusion and the second protrusion being present between the sub-protrusions.

[0007] The laminated glass according to the present disclosure includes a first glass plate, a second glass plate, and the light control film provided between the first glass plate and the second glass plate.

[0008] A vehicle window glass according to the present disclosure includes the laminated glass.

[0009] According to the present invention, it is possible to appropriately collect light.

[0010] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of laminated glass according to one embodiment. FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of laminated glass according to this embodiment. FIG. 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a light control film according to this embodiment. FIG. 4 is a schematic view showing the upper surface of a part of a first transparent electrode layer according to this embodiment. FIG. 5 is a schematic view showing a modified example of laminated glass according to this embodiment. FIG. 6 is a schematic view showing laminated glass according to another example. FIG. 7 is a schematic view showing an example of lighting. FIGS. 8A and 8B are schematic views showing an example of lighting. FIG. 9 is a schematic view showing an example of lighting.

[0011] Preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Note that the present invention is not limited to these embodiments, and when there are multiple embodiments, a combination of the embodiments is also included within the scope of the present invention. Numerical values ​​include the range of rounding.

[0012] (Laminated Glass) FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a laminated glass according to one embodiment. The laminated glass 10 shown in FIG. 1 is a laminated glass for a vehicle. The laminated glass 10 can be applied to vehicle window glass such as a roof glass, rear glass, rear side glass, rear quarter glass, extra glass, or windshield for a vehicle. The extra glass is glass attached to the rear of a vehicle to improve the rearward visibility of the driver. In this embodiment, the laminated glass 10 is used as roof glass installed in the ceiling of the vehicle. The vehicle here is typically an automobile, but refers to any moving body having glass, including a train, a ship, an aircraft, etc. However, the use of the laminated glass 10 is not limited to vehicles.

[0013] FIG. 1 schematically illustrates a laminated glass 10 installed in a vehicle, viewed from inside the vehicle cabin toward the outside. While FIG. 1 illustrates the laminated glass 10 as a flat plate, the laminated glass 10 is not limited thereto and may be curved in both the longitudinal and lateral directions. Furthermore, the laminated glass 10 may be curved only in the longitudinal direction or only in the lateral direction. Although FIG. 1 illustrates the planar shape of the laminated glass 10 as a rectangular shape, the planar shape of the laminated glass 10 is not limited to a rectangular shape and may be any shape, including a trapezoid. The planar shape here refers to the shape of a predetermined region of the laminated glass 10 as viewed from the normal direction of the interior surface of the laminated glass 10. In the following description, a planar view refers to viewing a predetermined region of the laminated glass 10 in direction Z (i.e., from the normal direction of the interior surface of the laminated glass 10).

[0014] FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a laminated glass according to this embodiment. FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the laminated glass 10 of FIG. 1 taken along line II-II. As shown in FIG. 2, the laminated glass 10 includes a first glass plate 11, a second glass plate 12, an intermediate layer 13, and a light control film 15. If the direction from the inside of the vehicle to the outside of the vehicle is defined as the Z direction, the laminated glass 10 is stacked in the following order toward the Z direction: the shielding layer 14, the second glass plate 12, the intermediate layer 13, the light control film 15, the intermediate layer 13, the first glass plate 11, and the shielding layer 14. The Z direction can also be considered the stacking direction. In the following description, a direction perpendicular to the Z direction is defined as the Y direction (first direction), a direction toward one direction within the Y direction is defined as the Y1 direction, and a direction toward the other direction within the Y direction (opposite the Y1 direction) is defined as the Y2 direction. Furthermore, the direction perpendicular to the Z direction and the Y direction is defined as the X direction, the direction toward one of the X directions is defined as the X1 direction (second direction), and the direction toward the other of the X directions (the direction opposite to the X1 direction) is defined as the X2 direction (third direction). In this embodiment, when the laminated glass 10 is installed in a vehicle, the Y direction is the front-to-rear direction of the vehicle, and the X direction is the left-to-right direction of the vehicle. However, the relationship between the X direction and the Y direction and the direction of the vehicle is not limited thereto and may be any relationship.

[0015] The total thickness T0 of the laminated glass 10 is preferably 2.8 mm or more and 10 mm or less. If the total thickness T0 of the laminated glass 10 is 2.8 mm or more, sufficient rigidity can be ensured. Furthermore, if the total thickness of the laminated glass 10 is 10 mm or less, sufficient transmittance can be obtained and haze can be reduced. Note that the total thickness here and the thickness described below refer to the length in the Z direction.

[0016] (Glass Plates) The first glass plate 11 and the second glass plate 12 are glass plates facing each other. The intermediate layer 13 and the light control film 15 are located between the first glass plate 11 and the second glass plate 12. The first glass plate 11 and the second glass plate 12 are fixed together with the intermediate layer 13 and the light control film 15 sandwiched between them.

[0017] The first glass sheet 11 is an exterior glass sheet that faces the exterior of the vehicle when the laminated glass 10 is installed in the vehicle. The second glass sheet 12 is an interior glass sheet that faces the interior of the vehicle when the laminated glass 10 is installed in the vehicle. The first glass sheet 11 and the second glass sheet 12 may have a predetermined curvature.

[0018] The first glass sheet 11 and the second glass sheet 12 may be inorganic glass or organic glass. Examples of inorganic glass that can be used include, without particular limitation, soda-lime glass, aluminosilicate glass, borosilicate glass, alkali-free glass, and quartz glass. The first glass sheet 11 located on the vehicle exterior side of the laminated glass 10 is preferably inorganic glass from the viewpoint of scratch resistance, and preferably soda-lime glass from the viewpoint of formability. When the first glass sheet 11 and the second glass sheet 12 are soda-lime glass, clear glass, green glass containing a predetermined amount or more of iron, and UV-cut green glass can be suitably used. The inorganic glass may be either untempered glass or tempered glass. Untempered glass is produced by forming molten glass into a plate shape and slowly cooling it.

[0019] Tempered glass is untempered glass with a compressive stress layer formed on its surface. Tempered glass may be either physically tempered glass, such as air-cooled tempered glass, or chemically tempered glass. In the case of physically tempered glass, the glass surface can be tempered by generating a compressive stress layer on the glass surface due to the temperature difference between the glass surface and the interior of the glass through an operation other than slow cooling, such as rapidly cooling a glass sheet uniformly heated during bending from a temperature near its softening point.

[0020] In the case of chemically strengthened glass, for example, after bending, the glass surface can be strengthened by generating compressive stress on the glass surface by an ion exchange method, etc. Glass that absorbs ultraviolet or infrared rays may also be used. Furthermore, although transparent glass is preferable, a glass plate that is colored to the extent that transparency is not impaired may also be used.

[0021] On the other hand, examples of materials for organic glass include polycarbonate, acrylic resins such as polymethyl methacrylate, polyvinyl chloride, polystyrene, and other transparent resins.

[0022] The shapes of the first glass sheet 11 and the second glass sheet 12 are not particularly limited to a rectangular shape, and may be processed into various shapes and curvatures. Gravity forming, press forming, roller forming, etc. are used to bend the first glass sheet 11 and the second glass sheet 12. The forming method for the first glass sheet 11 and the second glass sheet 12 is also not particularly limited, but for example, in the case of inorganic glass, glass sheets formed by a float method or the like are preferred.

[0023] The thickness T1 of the first glass sheet 11 is not particularly limited, but may generally be selected appropriately within the range of 0.1 mm to 10 mm depending on the type and location of the vehicle to which the laminated glass 10 is applied. When the thickness T1 of the second glass sheet 12 is 0.3 mm or more, impact resistance is adequately maintained and strength such as stone chip resistance is sufficient. It is preferably 0.5 mm or more, more preferably 0.7 mm or more, particularly preferably 1.1 mm or more, and most preferably 1.6 mm or more. Furthermore, when the thickness T1 of the first glass sheet 11 is 3 mm or less, the mass of the laminated glass 10 does not become too large, which is preferable in terms of vehicle fuel efficiency. The thickness T1 of the first glass sheet 11 is more preferably 2.6 mm or less, particularly preferably 2.1 mm or less. It is preferable that the thickness T1 here is the thickness of the thinnest portion of the first glass sheet 11.

[0024] The first glass plate 11 preferably has sufficient impact resistance for use in a vehicle. The impact resistance can be evaluated, for example, using the impact resistance test according to UN Regulation No. 43 (UN R43). The impact resistance test is a test to determine whether a safety glass, such as laminated glass for automobiles, has the necessary adhesiveness or strength to withstand the impact of a small, hard flying object. Specifically, the test is performed by maintaining the laminated glass (safety glass) at a predetermined temperature, placing it on a support frame with the glass side facing outward, and allowing a steel ball to drop from a predetermined height onto the laminated glass.

[0025] The same can be said about the thickness T2 of the second glass plate 12 as about the thickness T1 of the first glass plate 11. The second glass plate 12 may have a different composition and / or a different thickness from the first glass plate 11. For example, the second glass plate 12 may be thinner than the first glass plate 11.

[0026] When the thickness T2 of the second glass plate 12 is 1.1 mm or less, from the viewpoint of strength, the second glass plate 12 is preferably chemically strengthened glass.

[0027] At least one of the outer surfaces of the first glass sheet 11 and the second glass sheet 12 may be provided with a coating having water-repellent properties and UV- and infrared-blocking properties, a coating having low reflectivity, low radiation, and antifouling properties, or a coating having anti-condensation properties. Furthermore, at least one of the first glass sheet 11 and the second glass sheet 12 may be provided with a coating having UV- and infrared-blocking properties, low radiation, visible light absorption, coloring, or the like on the surface of the first glass sheet 11 and the second glass sheet 12 that contacts the intermediate layer 13. Furthermore, a low-emissivity (Low-E) coating may be formed on the interior surface of the second glass sheet 12. That is, at least one of the first glass sheet 11 and the second glass sheet 12 may have one or more of a water-repellent layer, an UV-blocking layer, an infrared-reflecting layer, a low reflectivity layer, a low-emissivity layer, an anti-condensation layer, a visible light-absorbing layer, and a coloring layer. These layers may be present in at least one of the first glass sheet 11 and the second glass sheet 12, the intermediate layer 13, the electrode layer 17, and the substrate 16 (described later) of the light control film 15.

[0028] The first glass sheet 11 and the second glass sheet 12 may have a flat shape or a curved shape. When the first glass sheet 11 and the second glass sheet 12 are curved inorganic glass, the first glass sheet 11 and the second glass sheet 12 are bent after being formed by a float process and before being bonded with the intermediate layer 13. The bending is performed by heating the glass to soften it. The heating temperature of the glass during bending is approximately 550°C or higher and 700°C or lower.

[0029] In this embodiment, the laminated glass 10 is a laminated glass having two glass plates, a first glass plate 11 and a second glass plate 12, but the number of glass plates is not limited to this and may be three or more.

[0030] (Intermediate Layer) The intermediate layer 13 is a film provided between the first glass plate 11 and the second glass plate 12. The intermediate layer 13 can also be said to be a film that bonds the first glass plate 11 and the second glass plate 12. The intermediate layer 13 has, for example, a first intermediate layer 131 that bonds to the first glass plate 11 and a second intermediate layer 132 that bonds to the second glass plate 12. The light control film 15 is sandwiched between the intermediate layer 13. The first intermediate layer 131 can also be said to be a film located between the first glass plate 11 and the light control film 15, and the second intermediate layer 132 can also be said to be a film located between the second glass plate 12 and the light control film 15.

[0031] Thermoplastic resins are often used for the intermediate layer 13, and examples thereof include thermoplastic resins that have traditionally been used in this manner, such as plasticized polyvinyl acetal resins, plasticized polyvinyl chloride resins, saturated polyester resins, plasticized saturated polyester resins, polyurethane resins, plasticized polyurethane resins, ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer resins, ethylene-ethyl acrylate copolymer resins, cycloolefin polymer resins, and ionomer resins.

[0032] Among these, plasticized polyvinyl acetal resins are preferably used as the material for the intermediate layer 13 because they have an excellent balance of properties such as transparency, weather resistance, strength, adhesive strength, penetration resistance, impact energy absorption, moisture resistance, heat insulation, and sound insulation. These thermoplastic resins may be used alone or in combination of two or more.

[0033] Examples of the polyvinyl acetal resin include a polyvinyl formal resin obtained by reacting polyvinyl alcohol (hereinafter, sometimes referred to as "PVA" as needed) with formaldehyde, a polyvinyl acetal resin in the narrow sense obtained by reacting PVA with acetaldehyde, and a polyvinyl butyral resin (hereinafter, sometimes referred to as "PVB" as needed) obtained by reacting PVA with n-butylaldehyde. PVB is particularly preferred because of its excellent balance of properties such as transparency, weather resistance, strength, adhesive strength, penetration resistance, impact energy absorption, moisture resistance, heat insulation, and sound insulation. These polyvinyl acetal resins may be used alone or in combination of two or more. The term "plasticized" in the plasticized polyvinyl acetal resin refers to plasticization by adding a plasticizer. The same applies to other plasticized resins.

[0034] The intermediate layer 13 may be a curable transparent resin also known as Optical Clear Resin (OCR) or a transparent adhesive sheet also known as Optical Clear Adhesive (OCA). The use of a curable transparent resin or a transparent adhesive sheet makes it possible to produce a laminate at room temperature. As the curable transparent resin or transparent adhesive sheet, an acrylic, silicone, urethane acrylate, epoxy, or other resin may be used. These curable transparent resins or transparent adhesive sheets may be used alone or in combination of two or more types.

[0035] However, the material forming the intermediate layer 13 is not limited to thermoplastic resin. The intermediate layer 13 may also contain functional particles such as an infrared absorbing agent, an ultraviolet absorbing agent, or a luminescent agent. The intermediate layer 13 may also have a colored portion called a shade hand.

[0036] The thickness of the intermediate layer 13 is preferably 0.3 mm or more at its thinnest portion. When the thickness of the thinnest portion of the intermediate layer 13 is 0.3 mm or more, the impact resistance required for the laminated glass 10 is sufficient. The thickness of the intermediate layer 13 is preferably 3 mm or less at its thickest portion. When the maximum thickness of the intermediate layer 13 is 3 mm or less, the mass of the laminated glass 10 does not become too large. The maximum thickness of the intermediate layer 13 is more preferably 2.8 mm or less, and even more preferably 2.6 mm or less. Note that the thickness of the intermediate layer 13 refers to, for example, the thickness of the intermediate layer 13 only, excluding the thickness of the light control film 15. Therefore, the thickness of the intermediate layer 13 refers to the length obtained by subtracting the thickness T4 of the light control film 15 from the thickness T3 from the surface of the second intermediate layer 132 facing the second glass plate 12 to the surface of the first intermediate layer 131 facing the first glass plate 11.

[0037] The intermediate layer 13 may have one layer or two or more layers, particularly three or more layers. The first intermediate layer 131 and the second intermediate layer 132 included in the intermediate layer 13 are preferably all formed of the same material, but some or all of the first intermediate layer 131 and the second intermediate layer 132 may be formed of different materials. That is, the first intermediate layer 131 and the second intermediate layer 132 may be integrally formed or may be formed separately from each other. The intermediate layer 13 may also have a frame-shaped third intermediate layer 133 between the first intermediate layer 131 and the second intermediate layer 132 that surrounds the outer periphery of the light control film 15. The third intermediate layer 133 may also be integrally formed with the first intermediate layer 131 and the second intermediate layer 132 or may be formed separately.

[0038] To form the intermediate layer 13, for example, the above-mentioned resin material for the intermediate layer is appropriately selected and extruded in a heated, molten state using an extruder. The extrusion conditions, such as the extrusion speed of the extruder, are set to be uniform. The extruded resin film is then cut and, for example, stretched as necessary to impart curvature to the upper and lower edges according to the design of the laminated glass 10, thereby completing the intermediate layer 13. Note that the intermediate layer 13 is not an essential component.

[0039] (Shielding Layer) The shielding layer 14 is an opaque layer and can be provided, for example, in a strip shape along the peripheral edge of the laminated glass 10. For example, in a plan view, the shielding layer 14 overlaps the peripheral edge of the glass plate and the peripheral edge of the light control film 15. The shielding layer 14 is, for example, an opaque (e.g., black) colored ceramic. The shielding layer 14 may be a colored interlayer or colored film with light-blocking properties, or a combination of a colored interlayer and colored ceramic. The colored film may be integrated with an infrared reflective film or the like. The colored interlayer or colored film may be colored entirely, or the surface may be colored or painted.

[0040] The laminated glass 10 has the opaque shielding layer 14, which can suppress ultraviolet degradation of resins such as urethane that hold the peripheral edge of the laminated glass 10 to the vehicle body. In addition, the electrodes 30 and wiring 31, 32 electrically connected to the light control film 15 can be concealed so as to be difficult to see from at least one of the exterior and interior of the vehicle.

[0041] The shielding layer 14 can be formed, for example, by applying a ceramic color paste containing a fusible glass frit containing a black pigment onto a glass plate by screen printing or the like, and then firing the paste, but is not limited to this. The shielding layer 14 may also be formed, for example, by applying an organic ink containing a black or dark color pigment onto a glass plate by screen printing, inkjet printing, or the like, and then drying the ink.

[0042] In the example of Figures 1 and 2, the shielding layer 14 is provided on the peripheral edge of the surface of the first glass plate 11 facing the exterior of the vehicle and on the peripheral edge of the surface of the second glass plate 12 facing the interior of the vehicle. However, the position where the shielding layer 14 is provided may be arbitrary, and the shielding layer 14 may be provided on the surface of the first glass plate 11 facing the interior of the vehicle, the surface of the second glass plate 12 facing the exterior of the vehicle, or on the peripheral edge of the light control film 15. Here, the area through which light passes when viewed from the direction from the interior of the vehicle cabin toward the exterior of the vehicle cabin (viewed from the Z direction) is referred to as the opening area 14A. The opening area 14A is an area that does not overlap with the shielding layer 14. In this embodiment, the shielding layer 14 is provided on the peripheral edge of the laminated glass 10, and therefore the area surrounded by the shielding layer 14 within the entire area of ​​the laminated glass 10 is the opening area 14A.

[0043] (Light control film) FIG. 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a light control film according to this embodiment. The light control film 15 is a film capable of switching light transmittance. The light control film 15 is preferably disposed over almost the entire laminated glass 10. The planar shape of the light control film 15 is, for example, a rectangle that is smaller than the planar shape of the laminated glass 10. However, the planar shape of the light control film 15 does not have to be rectangular. The peripheral edge of the light control film 15 is positioned so as to overlap with the shielding layer 14 in a planar view. In this embodiment, the light control film 15 is provided on the laminated glass 10, but is not limited to this and may be used for any purpose.

[0044] As shown in FIG. 3 , the light control film 15 includes a first transparent substrate 16A, a first transparent electrode layer 17A, a light control layer 18, a second transparent electrode layer 17B, and a second transparent substrate 16B, and is disposed between a first intermediate layer 131 and a second intermediate layer 132 that constitute the intermediate layer 13. The light control film 15 is laminated in the Z direction in the following order: second transparent substrate 16B, second transparent electrode layer 17B, light control layer 18, first transparent electrode layer 17A, and first transparent substrate 16A. Hereinafter, when there is no need to distinguish between the first transparent substrate 16A and the second transparent substrate 16B, they will be referred to as substrate 16, and when there is no need to distinguish between the first transparent electrode layer 17A and the second transparent electrode layer 17B, they will be referred to as electrode layer 17. An electrode 30 is connected to the light control film 15.

[0045] The thickness T4 of the light-controlling film 15 is, for example, 0.05 mm or more and 1.0 mm or less, and preferably 0.1 mm or more and 0.8 mm or less. Wiring 31, 32 for connecting the electrode 30 to a control unit 33 is connected to the electrode 30 connected to the light-controlling film 15.

[0046] (Substrate) The first transparent substrate 16A and the second transparent substrate 16B are a pair of substrates that support the first transparent electrode layer 17A and the second transparent electrode layer 17B and sandwich the light-controlling layer 18. The first transparent substrate 16A is located further in the Z direction than the light-controlling layer 18, and the second transparent substrate 16B is located in the opposite direction from the light-controlling layer 18 in the Z direction.

[0047] The substrate 16 is preferably a transparent resin layer and preferably contains one or more materials selected from the group consisting of polyethylene terephthalate, polyethylene naphthalate, polyamide, polyether, polysulfone polyethersulfone, polycarbonate, polystyrene, cyclic polyolefin, polyarylate, polyetherimide, polyetheretherketone, polyimide, aramid, polybutylene terephthalate, triacetyl cellulose, polyurethane, and cycloolefin polymer.

[0048] The first transparent base material 16A and the second transparent base material 16B are made of the same material as described above, but are not limited to this and may be made of different materials.

[0049] The thickness T5 of the substrate 16 is, for example, 5 μm or more and 500 μm or less, preferably 10 μm or more and 200 μm or less, and more preferably 50 μm or more and 150 μm or less. A thickness T5 of 5 μm suitably prevents a decrease in the impact resistance of the laminated glass 10, and a thickness T5 of 500 μm or less prevents the mass of the laminated glass 10 from becoming too large. The first transparent substrate 16A and the second transparent substrate 16B have the same thickness T5, but may have different thicknesses.

[0050] The peripheral edge of the substrate 16 is preferably located at the same position in the X direction and the Y direction relative to the peripheral edges of the first glass plate 11 and the second glass plate 12. In other words, the end (side surface) of the substrate 16 is preferably located at the same position in the X direction and the Y direction relative to the end (side surface) of the first glass plate 11 and the end (side surface) of the second glass plate 12, along the entire periphery. However, this does not apply to the portion of the peripheral edge of the substrate 16 to which the wiring 31, 32 is connected.

[0051] (Electrode Layer) The first transparent electrode layer 17A is formed on the surface of the first transparent substrate 16A facing away from the Z direction, and is in contact with the surface of the light-controlling layer 18 facing away from the Z direction. The second transparent electrode layer 17B is formed on the surface of the second transparent substrate 16B facing away from the Z direction, and is in contact with the surface of the light-controlling layer 18 facing away from the Z direction. In other words, the first transparent electrode layer 17A and the second transparent electrode layer 17B are a pair of electrode layers sandwiching the light-controlling layer 18. The first transparent electrode layer 17A and the second transparent electrode layer 17B are connected to a control unit 33, and a voltage is applied from the control unit 33. The first transparent electrode layer 17A and the second transparent electrode layer 17B are formed over the entire surfaces of the first transparent substrate 16A and the second transparent substrate 16B, respectively.

[0052] The electrode layer 17 may be made of, for example, a transparent conductive oxide (TCO), such as, but not limited to, tin-doped indium oxide (ITO), aluminum-doped zinc oxide (AZO), or indium-doped cadmium oxide.

[0053] Transparent conductive polymers such as poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT) or poly(4,4-dioctylcyclopentadithiophene) can also be suitably used for the electrode layer 17. Furthermore, a laminated film of a metal phase and a dielectric layer, silver nanowires, a metal mesh of silver or copper, or the like can also be suitably used for the electrode layer 17.

[0054] The electrode layer 17 can be formed by a physical vapor deposition (PVD) method such as a sputtering method, a vacuum deposition method, an ion plating method, etc. The electrode layer 17 may also be formed by a chemical vapor deposition method or a wet coating method.

[0055] (Segments) Fig. 4 is a schematic diagram showing the top surface of a portion of the first transparent electrode layer 17A according to this embodiment. As shown in Figs. 1 to 4, the light control film 15 has a first segment 20, a second segment 23, and a sub-segment 26, which are electrically disconnected from one another. In this embodiment, the electrode layer 17 is partitioned into the first segment 20, the second segment 23, and the sub-segment 26. That is, the first segment 20, the second segment 23, and the sub-segment 26 are only a portion of the entire area of ​​the electrode layer 17, and are electrically disconnected from one another. Therefore, the first segment 20, the second segment 23, and the sub-segment 26 can be driven independently of one another.

[0056] In this embodiment, the first transparent electrode layer 17A has a first segment 20, a second segment 23, and a sub-segment 26. In addition, in this embodiment, the second transparent electrode layer 17B is not divided into the first segment 20, the second segment 23, and the sub-segment 26; in other words, it is a common electrode that does not have any electrically unconnected areas throughout its entire area. However, this is not limited thereto, and the first transparent electrode layer 17A may be a common electrode and the second transparent electrode layer 17B may be divided into segments, or both the first transparent electrode layer 17A and the second transparent electrode layer 17B may be divided into segments. In other words, at least one of the first transparent electrode layer 17A and the second transparent electrode layer 17B may have a first segment 20, a second segment 23, and a sub-segment 26.

[0057] The segments may be formed by any method. For example, the segments may be formed by dividing the electrode layer 17 with an insulating portion. In other words, the segments may be electrically disconnected by being adjacent to each other via an insulating portion. In the example of FIG. 4 , the first transparent electrode layer 17A is divided by the insulating portion 17A1 to form the first segment 20, the second segment 23, and the sub-segment 26. The insulating portion 17A1 is an insulating member (insulating pattern) that divides the first transparent electrode layer 17A. The insulating portion 17A1 can be formed by partially removing the transparent electrode using, for example, a cutter or a laser. The shape of the insulating portion 17A1 is determined according to the shape of the segment and is not limited to a linear shape but may also be a curved shape. Furthermore, a partition member, for example, made of resin, may be provided at a position corresponding to the insulating portion 17A1 to divide not only the transparent electrode layer but also the light-controlling layer (described later) into segments.

[0058] (First Segment) The first segment 20 has a first extending portion 21 and a first protruding portion 22. The first segment 20 has at least one first protruding portion 22. In this embodiment, the first segment 20 has a plurality of first protruding portions 22.

[0059] The first extension portion 21 extends in the Y1 direction (first direction). In the example of Fig. 4, the first extension portion 21 has a rectangular shape when viewed from the direction from the inside of the vehicle cabin toward the outside of the vehicle cabin (when viewed from the Z direction). However, the first extension portion 21 is not limited to a rectangular shape in a plan view and may have any shape. The first extension portion 21 is positioned so as to overlap the shielding layer 14 in a plan view. In other words, the first extension portion 21 does not overlap the opening region 14A.

[0060] The first protrusion 22 protrudes from the first extension 21 in the X1 direction (a second direction perpendicular to the first direction). The tip (end in the X1 direction) of the first protrusion 22 is located further in the X2 direction than the second extension 24 (described later). The first protrusion 22 has a rectangular shape in a plan view, but is not limited to a rectangular shape in a plan view and may have any shape. At least a portion of the first protrusion 22 overlaps the opening region 14A in a plan view (it does not overlap the shielding layer 14). As shown in FIG. 4 , for example, when the entire first extension 21 overlaps the shielding layer 14, the end (root) in the X2 direction and the end (tip) in the X1 direction of the first protrusion 22 overlap the shielding layer 14, and the portion between the end in the X2 direction and the end in the X1 direction overlaps the opening region 14A. The width (thickness) of the first protrusion 22 in the Y direction is preferably wider (thicker) than the width (thickness) of the sub-protrusion 29 in the Y direction, which will be described later.

[0061] The number of first protrusions 22 may be any number, but in this embodiment, multiple first protrusions 22 are provided. Each first protrusion 22 protrudes in the X1 direction from a different position in the Y direction of the first extending portion 21. That is, the first protrusions 22 are lined up in the Y direction. The lengths of the first protrusions 22 in the X direction may be the same or different. For example, the first protrusions 22 may include first protrusions 22 of the same length and first protrusions 22 of different lengths. Note that the term "same length" does not necessarily mean that the lengths are exactly the same, and may be the same as long as the difference in length is within about 20%. Furthermore, "different lengths" refers to lengths that are not the same. Furthermore, the term "same width" does not necessarily mean that the widths are exactly the same, and may be the same as long as the difference in width is within about 20%. Furthermore, "different widths" refers to widths that are not the same. The same applies hereinafter. The widths of the first protrusions 22 in the Y direction may be the same or different. Furthermore, the widths of the multiple first protrusions 22 in the first direction may be arbitrarily combined. For example, the first protrusions 22 may include first protrusions 22 with the same width and first protrusions 22 with different widths in the first direction. More specifically, for example, if there are four first protrusions 22, two may have the same width and the remaining two may have different widths. By providing multiple first protrusions 22 in this manner, light can be uniformly introduced when it is transmitted through the first protrusions 22 (first segments 20). Furthermore, by arbitrarily combining the widths of the first protrusions 22, the aperture ratio of the first protrusions 22 can be adjusted, which also leads to adjusting the amount of light introduced.

[0062] (Second Segment) The second segment 23 has a second extending portion 24 and a second protruding portion 25. The second segment 23 has at least one second protruding portion 25. In this embodiment, the second segment 23 has a plurality of second protruding portions 25.

[0063] The second extension portion 24 is located further in the X1 direction than the first extension portion 21 and extends in the Y direction. It can be said that the second extension portion 24 extends in the Y direction alongside the first extension portion 21. The second extension portion 24 is a rectangular region in a plan view, but is not limited to being rectangular in a plan view and may have any shape. The second extension portion 24 is located overlapping the shielding layer 14 in a plan view. In other words, the second extension portion 24 does not overlap the opening region 14A. Note that it is preferable that the second extension portion 24 extends parallel to the first extension portion 21, but this is not limiting. For example, the second extension portion 24 may extend such that the Y-direction end of the first extension portion 21 and the Y-direction end of the second extension portion approach each other as it extends in the Y direction.

[0064] The second protrusion 25 protrudes from the second extension portion 24 in the X2 direction (a third direction opposite to the second direction). The second protrusion 25 is provided at a different position from the first protrusion 22 in the Y direction. That is, the first protrusions 22 and the second protrusions 25 are arranged alternately side by side in the Y direction. The tip end of the second protrusion 25 (the end in the X2 direction) is located further in the X1 direction than the first extension portion 21. The second protrusion 25 has a rectangular shape in a planar view, but is not limited to being rectangular in a planar view and may have any shape. At least a portion of the second protrusion 25 overlaps the opening region 14A (does not overlap the shielding layer 14) in a planar view. 4 , for example, when the entire second extension 24 overlaps the shielding layer 14, the X1-direction end (root) and the X2-direction end (tip) of the second protrusion 25 overlap the shielding layer 14, and the portion between the X1-direction end and the X2-direction end overlaps the opening region 14A. The width of the second protrusion 25 in the Y direction is preferably wider than the width of the sub-protrusion 29 in the Y direction, and may be the same as or different from the width of the first protrusion 22 in the Y direction. In this embodiment, the width of the second protrusion 25 in the Y direction is wider than the width of the first protrusion 22 in the Y direction.

[0065] The number of second protrusions 25 may be any number, but in this embodiment, multiple second protrusions 25 are provided. Each second protrusion 25 protrudes in the X2 direction from a different position in the Y direction of the second extending portion 24. That is, the second protrusions 25 are lined up in the Y direction. The lengths of the second protrusions 25 in the X direction may be the same or different. For example, the second protrusions 25 may include first protrusions 22 of the same length and second protrusions 25 of different lengths. Furthermore, the widths of the second protrusions 25 in the Y direction may be the same or different. Furthermore, the widths of the multiple second protrusions 25 in the first direction may be combined in any way. For example, the second protrusions 25 may include second protrusions 25 of the same width and second protrusions 25 of different widths in the first direction. More specifically, for example, if there are four second protrusions 25, two may have the same width and the remaining two may have different widths. By providing a plurality of second protrusions 25 in this manner, light can be uniformly introduced when it is transmitted through the second protrusions 25 (second segments 23). In addition, by arbitrarily combining the widths of the second protrusions 25, the aperture ratio of the second protrusions 25 can be adjusted, which also leads to adjustment of the amount of light introduced.

[0066] However, the first protrusion 22 and the second protrusion 25 are not limited to the example shown in FIG. 4 . FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram showing a modified example of the laminated glass according to the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 5 , the first protrusion 22 and the second protrusion 25 are trapezoidal. Note that the first protrusion 22 and the second protrusion 25 are not limited to a trapezoidal shape and may be triangular. This can improve the design. The corners of the first protrusion 22 and the second protrusion 25 may be rounded. The tips of the first protrusion 22 and the second protrusion 25 may be semicircular.

[0067] (Minor Segment) The minor segment 26 includes a plurality of minor protrusions 29. At least one of the first protrusions 22 and the second protrusions 25 is present between the respective minor protrusions 29. Furthermore, it is preferable that only one of the first protrusions 22 and the second protrusions 25 is present between the respective minor protrusions 29. That is, for example, at least one of the first protrusions 22 and the second protrusions 25 (preferably either one) is provided between one minor protrusion 29 and the minor protrusion 29 adjacent to that minor protrusion 29 in the Y direction.

[0068] More specifically, the sub-segment 26 has a plurality of sub-projections 29 and a sub-extension portion that connects the sub-projections 29. The sub-extension portion of the sub-segment 26 has a first sub-extension portion 27 and a second sub-extension portion 28. The first sub-extension portion 27 extends in the Y direction and connects one ends of the plurality of sub-projections 29 that are aligned in the Y direction, and the second sub-extension portion 28 connects the other ends of the plurality of sub-projections 29 that are aligned in the Y direction.

[0069] In this embodiment, the first sub-extension 27 is located between the first extension 21 and the second protrusion 25 in the X direction. The first sub-extension 27 is a rectangular region in a plan view, but is not limited to being rectangular in a plan view and may have any shape. The first sub-extension 27 is provided at a position overlapping the shielding layer 14. The first sub-extension 27 may be located so that its entirety overlaps the shielding layer 14.

[0070] The second sub-extension portion 28 is located further in the X1 direction than the first sub-extension portion 27. In this embodiment, the second sub-extension portion 28 is located between the second extension portion 24 and the first protrusion portion 22 in the X direction. The second sub-extension portion 28 is a rectangular region in a plan view, but is not limited to being rectangular in a plan view and may have any shape. The second sub-extension portion 28 is provided at a position overlapping the shielding layer 14. The second sub-extension portion 28 may be located so that its entirety overlaps the shielding layer 14.

[0071] The sub-projection 29 projects in the X1 direction from the first sub-extension 27 and is connected to the second sub-extension 28. That is, the sub-projection 29 extends in the X1 direction from the X2-direction end connected to the first sub-extension 27 to the X1-direction end connected to the second sub-extension 28. In plan view, at least a portion of the sub-projection 29 overlaps the opening region 14A (does not overlap the shielding layer 14). For example, the X2-direction end and the X1-direction end of the sub-projection 29 may overlap the shielding layer 14, and a portion between the X1-direction end and the X2-direction end may overlap the opening region 14A.

[0072] The multiple sub-projections 29 are aligned at different positions in the Y direction. That is, each sub-projection 29 projects in the X direction from a different position in the Y direction of the first sub-extension 27 (second sub-extension 28). A first projecting portion 22 or a second projecting portion 25 is present between the multiple sub-projections 29. That is, one of the multiple first projecting portions 22 and the multiple second projecting portions 25 is provided between the sub-projections 29 aligned in the Y direction.

[0073] Because the secondary segments 26 are arranged as described above, in the opening region 14A, the respective protrusions are arranged in the Y2 direction in the following order, as shown in FIG. 4 : first protrusion 22, secondary protrusion 29, second protrusion 25, secondary protrusion 29, first protrusion 22, secondary protrusion 29, ... Furthermore, it is preferable that the total area of ​​each protrusion is the same in the opening region 14A. Specifically, when viewed from the Z direction, the total area of ​​the first protrusions 22 in the opening region 14A is S1, the total area of ​​the second protrusions 25 is S2, and the total area of ​​the secondary protrusions 29 is S3, it is preferable that S1 = S2 = S3 be satisfied. S1, S2, and S3 do not necessarily have to be strictly equal, and a difference of approximately 20% between the maximum and minimum areas may be permitted.

[0074] The width of the secondary protrusion 29 in a plan view (width in the first direction) is preferably narrower (thinner) than the widths of the first protrusion 22 and the second protrusion 25 in the first direction. The number of secondary protrusions 29 is preferably 1 to 50. In this case, the width of each secondary protrusion 29 in the first direction is preferably 2 cm or more at a minimum. By making the minimum width of each secondary protrusion 29 in the first direction 2 cm or more, a good field of view for vehicle occupants can be maintained and a large number of secondary protrusions 29 can be ensured. Furthermore, for example, when there are multiple secondary protrusions 29, the number is preferably 2 to 30. By setting the number of secondary protrusions 29 to 2 to 30, the width can be increased. In this case, the width of each secondary protrusion 29 in the first direction is approximately 3.3 cm, but is not limited to this width, and the number is not limited to 30. The widths of the secondary protrusions 29 in the first direction may be the same or different. For example, the minor protrusions 29 may include minor protrusions 29 of the same width and minor protrusions 29 of different widths in the first direction.

[0075] The first segments 20, the second segments 23, and the sub-segments 26 are preferably gathered at a location overlapping the shielding layer 14 so that the electrodes 30 are concentrated in one location. In this embodiment, the first segments 20, the second segments 23, and the sub-segments 26 are gathered on the side of the laminated glass 10 in the Y2 direction in a plan view.

[0076] (Light Control Layer) The light control layer 18 is a layer that can change the amount of light transmission. The light control layer 18 is located between the first transparent substrate 16A on which the first transparent electrode layer 17A is formed and the second transparent substrate 16B on which the second transparent electrode layer 17B is formed. In other words, the light control layer 18 is located between the first transparent electrode layer 17A and the second transparent electrode layer 17B. The light control layer 18 may include a sealant that seals the side surfaces of the light control layer 18 (not shown). The light-controlling layer 18 may be made of one or more materials selected from the group consisting of a suspended particle device (SPD), a guest-host liquid crystal (GHLC), an electrochromic (EC), a polymer dispersed liquid crystal (PDLC), and a polymer network liquid crystal (PNLC). For example, if the light-controlling layer 18 does not contain liquid crystal or the like and does not require a sealant, the sealant need not be provided. In this case, the outer edge of the light-controlling layer 18 corresponds to the edge of the light-controlling layer 18.

[0077] In other words, the light-controlling film 15 has a first transparent substrate 16A on which a first transparent electrode layer 17A is formed, and a second transparent substrate 16B on which a second transparent electrode layer 17B is formed, which are arranged opposite each other, and a light-controlling layer 18 made of one or more selected from the group consisting of a suspended particle device, a guest-host liquid crystal, a polymer-dispersed liquid crystal, and a polymer network liquid crystal, which is arranged between the opposing first transparent electrode layer 17A and second transparent electrode layer 17B.

[0078] A typical SPD film can be used as a suspended particle device. The SPD film is constructed by sandwiching a polymer layer containing suspended particles that can be oriented by the application of a voltage between two substrates coated with electrode layers in the Y direction. When the power switch is turned on and a voltage is applied between the transparent electrode layers, the suspended particles in the polymer layer are oriented, resulting in a high visible light transmittance and high transparency. When the power switch is turned off, the suspended particles in the polymer layer are not oriented, resulting in a low visible light transmittance and low transparency.

[0079] As the SPD film, for example, a commercially available product such as LCF-1103DHA (trade name, manufactured by Hitachi Chemical Co., Ltd.) can be used. Note that such commercially available products are supplied in a predetermined size, and are used after being cut to the desired size. Note that the thickness of the SPD film is not particularly limited, but is preferably 0.1 mm or more and 0.4 mm or less from the viewpoints of ease of handling and availability.

[0080] (Electrode) The electrode 30 is connected to the electrode layer 17 and applies a voltage from an external device to the electrode layer 17. In the example of Fig. 1 , the electrode 30 is located at the bottom of the laminated glass 10, but the position of the electrode 30 is not limited thereto and may be any position. For example, the electrodes 30 may be located so as to be concentrated at the top in a plan view.

[0081] 1, the electrode 30 is disposed, for example, at a position overlapping the shielding layer 14 in a plan view. As shown in Fig. 3, the electrode 30 is electrically connected to the first transparent electrode layer 17A and the second transparent electrode layer 17B. The electrode 30 passes current through the first transparent electrode layer 17A and the second transparent electrode layer 17B to drive the light control layer 18.

[0082] One pole of the electrode 30 is, for example, a positive pole, and is connected to the positive side of a power source such as a battery mounted on the vehicle via a wiring 31 electrically connected to the one pole of the electrode 30. The other pole of the electrode 30 is, for example, a negative pole, and is connected to the negative side of a power source such as a battery mounted on the vehicle via a wiring 32 electrically connected to the other pole of the electrode 30. The wirings 31 and 32 may be formed integrally with the electrode 30.

[0083] When a voltage is supplied to the light-controlling layer 18 from a power source such as a battery via the electrodes 30, the transmittance of the light-controlling layer 18 changes depending on the voltage.

[0084] The material of the electrode 30 is not particularly limited as long as it is a conductive material, and examples thereof include metal materials. Examples of metal materials include gold, silver, copper, aluminum, tungsten, platinum, palladium, nickel, cobalt, titanium, iridium, zinc, magnesium, and tin. These metals may be plated, or may be alloys or composites with resin.

[0085] From the viewpoints of cost and availability, copper ribbon, flat-braided copper wire, or FPC (Flexible Printed Circuit) can be suitably used for the electrode 30. The copper ribbon or flat-braided copper wire may be plated with a metal other than copper. The electrode 30 may be formed integrally with the wiring 31, 32.

[0086] The electrode 30 can be bonded to the electrode layer 17 by a conductive adhesive (conductive adhesive layer), an anisotropic conductive film, or solder. The electrode 30 may also be in direct contact with the electrode layer 17 without the conductive adhesive, anisotropic conductive film, or solder. Alternatively, the electrode 30 may be formed by a printing method such as screen printing, inkjet printing, offset printing, flexographic printing, or gravure printing.

[0087] The electrode 30 has a length and shape necessary and sufficient for passing current through the light-control layer 18. The shape of the electrode 30 is not particularly limited, but is generally substantially rectangular. Because the electrode 30 needs to be hidden by the shielding layer 14, it is arranged, for example, at a position where each segment is gathered, substantially parallel to the peripheral edges of the first glass plate 11 and the second glass plate. The number of electrodes 30 arranged on the first transparent electrode layer 17A is the same as the number of segments. In this embodiment, there are three segments: the first segment 20, the second segment 23, and the sub-segment 26, so the number of electrodes 30 is also three. On the other hand, the second transparent electrode layer 17B is a common electrode (having no unconnected regions), so only one electrode 30 is arranged on the second transparent electrode layer 17B. Since the segments are electrically independent from each other in this way, the number of electrodes 30 arranged on the partitioned first transparent electrode layer 17A can be reduced. Furthermore, concealment by the shielding layer 14 is facilitated, improving design.

[0088] The electrode 30 is preferably disposed at a distance of 5 mm or more, and more preferably 8 mm or more, in the Y1 direction from the peripheral edges (edges) of the first glass plate 11 and the second glass plate 12. Such a location reduces the risk of moisture penetrating from the peripheral edges of the first glass plate 11 and the second glass plate 12, causing corrosion of the electrode 30 or a short circuit between different potentials.

[0089] There is no particular limitation on the length of the electrode 30, but it is preferably 5 mm or more in order to ensure sufficient current-carrying function and improve workability.

[0090] The thickness of the electrode 30 is preferably 0.05 mm to 0.4 mm. By making the thickness of the electrode 30 0.05 mm or more, sufficient strength can be obtained, thereby suppressing the occurrence of defects such as disconnection. Furthermore, by making the thickness of the electrode 30 0.4 mm or less, the thickness deviation between the electrode 30 and other parts is reduced. This makes it possible to suppress stress generated in the first glass plate 11 and the second glass plate 12, and reduces the risk of the first glass plate 11 and the second glass plate 12 breaking.

[0091] One end of each of the wires 31 and 32 is connected to the electrode 30, and the other end is connected to the control unit 33. That is, the wires 31 and 32 extend from the control unit 33, and the electrodes 30 at the tips of the wires 31 and 32 are connected to the electrode layer 17. A plurality of wires 31, that is, the same number of wires as the number of electrodes 30 (each segment), extend from the control unit 33 toward the first transparent electrode layer 17A. One wire 32 extends from the control unit 33 toward the second transparent electrode layer 17B. This makes it possible to control the dimming independently for each segment.

[0092] (Control Unit) The control unit 33 controls the current and voltage. The control unit 33 also supplies electricity to the laminated glass 10. The control unit 33 may include, for example, a control device that controls the current and voltage, a power switch, an operation button, a vehicle battery, etc. The control unit 33 is connected to the electrode layer 17. The control unit 33 applies a voltage to the electrode layer 17, thereby driving the light control layer 18 and controlling light.

[0093] Depending on the operation mode, the control unit 33 applies a constant voltage to the first transparent electrode layer 17A or applies different voltages to each segment. For example, the control unit 33 applies a constant voltage to each segment. This allows the laminated glass 10 (light control film 15) to transmit light at a constant level. In other words, it is possible to allow light to enter the opening region 14A at a constant brightness.

[0094] The control unit 33 adjusts the light intensity of the desired segments. Specifically, when the control unit 33 wants to adjust the light intensity of the first segment 20 (first protrusion 22) and the second segment 23 (second protrusion 25), the control unit 33 adjusts the light intensity of these two segments.

[0095] The control unit 33 may also apply different voltages to each segment. For example, the control unit 33 applies a voltage to the first protrusion 22 to place the first protrusion 22 in a transmissive state, and does not apply a voltage to the second protrusion 25 to place it in an off state (non-transmissive state). The control unit 33 then applies a voltage to the sub-protrusion 29 that is weaker than the voltage applied to the first protrusion 22 to place the sub-protrusion 29 in a semi-transmissive state. This allows for a gradual change in brightness. Note that the strength of the applied voltage is not limited to this and may be any strength. For example, a voltage may be applied to the second protrusion 25 without applying a voltage to the first protrusion 22.

[0096] The control unit 33 may control the voltage based on, for example, sensors and navigation systems mounted on the vehicle, changes in the surrounding environment, the passage of time, etc. The control unit 33 may also control the voltage by combining the controls described above.

[0097] By controlling the light in this way, it is possible to allow light in any pattern or shape. Also, by making one segment transparent, multiple parts are transparent, allowing light to be allowed in evenly.

[0098] (Method for manufacturing laminated glass) Next, a method for manufacturing the laminated glass 10 described above will be described. To manufacture the laminated glass 10, a laminate is prepared by sandwiching the intermediate layer 13 and the light control film 15 between the first glass plate 11 and the second glass plate 12. Then, for example, this laminate is placed in a rubber bag and pre-pressed at a temperature of about 50°C to 100°C in a vacuum with a gauge pressure of -100 kPa to -65 kPa. The heating conditions, temperature conditions, vacuum conditions, and lamination method for the pre-pressing are appropriately selected in consideration of the properties of the light control layer 18 so as not to deteriorate during lamination. The pre-pressing step may be performed using a nip roller or the like instead of a rubber bag.

[0099] Furthermore, by performing a heating and pressing treatment in an autoclave under conditions of, for example, 80° C. to 150° C. and a pressure of 0.6 MPa to 1.3 MPa, a more durable laminated glass 10 can be obtained. However, in some cases, this heating and pressing step may not be used in consideration of simplification of the process and the properties of the material to be sealed in the laminated glass 10.

[0100] In the process of producing the laminate, when a transparent adhesive sheet (OCA) is used as the intermediate layer 13, a laminate may be produced by first producing a first laminate in which the light control layer 18 is attached to the second glass plate 12 via a second intermediate layer 132 that becomes part of the intermediate layer 13, and then attaching the first glass plate 11 to the light control layer 18 of the first laminate via 131 that becomes part of the intermediate layer 13. In this case, an adhesive film may be used for the intermediate layer 13.

[0101] The temperature conditions and vacuum conditions are appropriately selected so as not to deteriorate during lamination, taking into consideration the properties of the intermediate layer 13 and the photochromic layer 18. Furthermore, a frame-shaped intermediate layer may be added that is positioned between the first intermediate layer 131 and the second intermediate layer 132 and surrounds the outer periphery of the photochromic layer 18.

[0102] Furthermore, in the process of producing the laminate, when a curable transparent resin (OCR) is used as the intermediate layer 13, for example, the position of the light-controlling layer 18 is fixed in the space between the second glass plate 12 and the first glass plate 11. Then, the periphery of the space between the second glass plate 12 and the first glass plate 11 is sealed with tape or the like to separate the space from the outside. Then, the curable transparent resin is poured into the space to fill it with the curable transparent resin. The curable transparent resin is then cured to form the intermediate layer 13. Note that any method for curing the curable transparent resin may be used, and examples thereof include heat curing, light curing, and moisture curing.

[0103] When the laminated glass 10 has a curved shape, the first glass sheet 11 and the second glass sheet 12 may be bent by a conventionally known bending method. For example, the first glass sheet 11 and the second glass sheet 12 may be stacked and placed in a ring-shaped mold, heated to a temperature above their softening point, and bent by their own weight. Alternatively, the first glass sheet 11 and the second glass sheet 12 may be press-molded individually or together while heated.

[0104] The above-described manufacturing process for the laminated glass 10 is an example, and the laminated glass 10 may be manufactured using, for example, a cold bending method.

[0105] (Other Examples) Next, other examples will be described. In the above-described embodiment, the number of sub-segments 26 is one, but a plurality of sub-segments 26 may be provided. Below, an example in which two sub-segments are provided will be described. In the other examples, descriptions of parts that are common to the above-described embodiment will be omitted.

[0106] Fig. 6 is a schematic diagram showing another example of laminated glass. As shown in Fig. 6, this example includes two sub-segments, sub-segment 26 and sub-segment 26A. The configuration of sub-segment 26 is the same as that of the above-described embodiment, and therefore, a description thereof will be omitted.

[0107] The minor segment 26A includes a plurality of minor projections 29A, with a first projection 22 or minor projection 29 between each of the minor projections 29A.

[0108] More specifically, the sub-segment 26A has a plurality of sub-projections 29A and a sub-extension connecting the sub-projections 29A. The sub-extensions of the sub-segment 26A include a first sub-extension 27A and a second sub-extension 28A. The first sub-extension 27A extends in the Y direction and connects one ends of the plurality of sub-projections 29A aligned in the Y direction, and the second sub-extension 28A connects the other ends of the plurality of sub-projections 29A aligned in the Y direction.

[0109] In this embodiment, the first sub-extension 27A is located between the first sub-extension 27 and the second protrusion 25 of the sub-segment 26 in the X direction. The first sub-extension 27 is a rectangular region in a plan view, but is not limited to being rectangular in a plan view and may have any shape. The first sub-extension 27A is provided at a position overlapping the shielding layer 14. The first sub-extension 27A may be located so that its entirety overlaps the shielding layer 14.

[0110] The second sub-extension portion 28A is located between the second sub-extension portion 28 and the second extension portion 24 of the sub-segment 26 in the X direction. The second sub-extension portion 28A is a rectangular region in a plan view, but is not limited to being rectangular in a plan view and may have any shape. The second sub-extension portion 28A is provided at a position overlapping the shielding layer 14. The second sub-extension portion 28A may be located so that its entirety overlaps the shielding layer 14.

[0111] The secondary protrusion 29A protrudes in the X1 direction from the first secondary extension 27A and connects to the second secondary extension 28A. That is, the secondary protrusion 29A extends in the X1 direction from the X2 direction end connected to the first secondary extension 27A to the X1 direction end connected to the second secondary extension 28A. In a plan view, at least a portion of the secondary protrusion 29A overlaps the opening region 14A (it does not overlap the shielding layer 14). For example, the X2 direction end and the X1 direction end of the secondary protrusion 29A may overlap the shielding layer 14, and a portion between the X1 direction end and the X2 direction end may overlap the opening region 14A.

[0112] The multiple sub-projections 29A are aligned at different positions in the Y direction. That is, each sub-projection 29A projects in the X direction from a different position in the Y direction of the first sub-extension 27A (second sub-extension 28A). The first projecting portion 22 or the second projecting portion 25 is present between the multiple sub-projections 29A. That is, the first projecting portion 22 or the second projecting portion 25 is provided between the sub-projections 29A aligned in the Y direction.

[0113] Because the secondary segments 26A are arranged as described above, as shown in FIG. 6 , in the opening region 14A, the protrusions are arranged in the following order in the Y2 direction: first protrusion 22, secondary protrusions 29 and 29A, second protrusion 25, secondary protrusions 29 and 29A, first protrusion 22, secondary protrusions 29 and 29A, ... Furthermore, it is preferable that the total area of ​​each protrusion in the opening region 14A is the same. Specifically, when viewed from the Z direction, the total area of ​​the first protrusions 22 in the opening region 14A is S1, the total area of ​​the second protrusions 25 is S2, the total area of ​​the secondary protrusions 29 is S3, and the total area of ​​the secondary protrusions 29A is S4. It is preferable that S1 = S2 = S3 = S4 be satisfied. A difference of approximately 20% between the maximum and minimum areas of S1 = S2 = S3 = S4 may be allowed.

[0114] The width of the secondary protrusion 29A in a plan view (width in the first direction) is preferably narrower (thinner) than the widths of the first protrusion 22 and the second protrusion 25 in the first direction. Furthermore, the width of the secondary protrusion 29A in a plan view may be the same as or different from the width of the secondary protrusion 29 in the first direction. The number of secondary protrusions 29A is preferably 1 to 50. In this case, the minimum width of each secondary protrusion 29A in the first direction is preferably 2 cm or more. By making the minimum width of each secondary protrusion 29A in the first direction 2 cm or more, the field of view of the vehicle occupants can be maintained good and a large number of secondary protrusions 29A can be ensured. Furthermore, when there are multiple secondary protrusions 29A, the number is preferably 2 to 30. By making the number of secondary protrusions 29A 2 to 30, the width of each secondary protrusion 29A can be increased. In this case, the width of the sub-projections 29A in the first direction is approximately 3.3 cm, but is not limited to this width, and the number is not limited to 30. The widths of the sub-projections 29A in the first direction may be the same or different. For example, the sub-projections 29A may include sub-projections 29A with the same width in the first direction and sub-projections 29A with different widths.

[0115] In the above description, examples have been shown in which the number of sub-segments is one or two. However, if the number of sub-segments is N, in the opening region 14A, the first protrusion 22, the second protrusion 25, and the sub-protrusions are arranged in the following order along the Y direction: first protrusion 22, N sub-protrusions, second protrusion 25, N sub-protrusions, first protrusion 22.... If the N sub-protrusions arranged in the Y direction are considered to be sub-protrusion groups, the arrangement directions of the sub-protrusion groups are opposite to each other in the Y direction between the first protrusion 22 or the second protrusion 25. That is, for example, when N = 2, in one sub-protrusion group, the sub-protrusions 29, 29A are arranged in the Y1 direction, but in the sub-protrusion group adjacent to that sub-protrusion group in the Y direction, the sub-protrusions 29A, 29 are arranged in the Y1 direction.

[0116] The sub-segment 26A is separated from the sub-segment 26 and the second segment 23 by an insulating portion 17A1. In other words, the sub-segment 26A is also electrically disconnected. Therefore, the sub-segment 26A is connected to the electrode 30 via the wiring 31 from the control unit 33.

[0117] In this example, the number of segments is four, and lighting can be achieved with improved design compared to the above-described embodiment. Lighting will be described below with reference to Figs.

[0118] 7 to 9 are schematic diagrams showing examples of lighting. Note that Fig. 7 to Fig. 9 show segments (protrusions) within the opening region 14A. The control unit 33 applies a constant voltage to the first transparent electrode layer 17A or applies different voltages to each segment, depending on the operation mode, for example.

[0119] As shown in FIG. 7 , the control unit 33 applies a voltage to the first segment 20 (first protrusion 22) and the sub-segment 26 (sub-protrusion 29), thereby transmitting light through the positions of the first protrusion 22 and the sub-protrusion 29. In other words, the control unit 33 does not apply a voltage to the sub-segment 26A (sub-protrusion 29A) and the second segment 23 (second protrusion 25), thereby blocking light through the positions of the sub-protrusion 29A and the second protrusion 25. The control unit 33 can change the transmission position by switching between transmission and blocking. In other words, the control unit 33 can adjust the light-transmitting position of the laminated glass 10 (light-control film 15). This allows light to be transmitted to multiple locations, even with four segments, enabling uniform light transmission. Complex designs can also be realized.

[0120] As shown in FIG. 8A , the control unit 33 can increase the number of transparent areas by making the first protrusions 22 and the sub-protrusions 29A transparent. Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 8B , the control unit 33 can make the sub-protrusions 29, 29A transparent, thereby allowing light to pass through fewer areas than when the first protrusions 22 and the sub-protrusions 29A are transparent, but allowing light to pass through more areas than when the first protrusions 22 and the sub-protrusions 29 are transparent (as shown in FIG. 7 ). In this way, the control unit 33 can adjust the number of transparent areas. In other words, the control unit 33 can adjust the number of light-transmitting areas using the light control film 15. This allows light to be transmitted to multiple areas, enabling uniform light transmission. Furthermore, complex designs can be realized.

[0121] As shown in FIG. 9 , the control unit 33 may apply different voltages to each segment. For example, the control unit 33 applies a voltage to the first protrusion 22 and the sub-protrusion 29 to place them in a transmissive state, and does not apply a voltage to the second protrusion 25 to place them in an off state (non-transmissive state). The control unit 33 then applies a voltage to the sub-protrusion 29A that is weaker than the voltage applied to the first protrusion 22 and the sub-protrusion 29, placing the sub-protrusion 29A in a semi-transmissive state. In this way, the control unit 33 can gradually change the brightness of the light control provided by the light control film 15. Light can be introduced to multiple locations, enabling uniform light distribution. Furthermore, by adjusting the voltage, complex designs can be realized using methods other than power on / off.

[0122] In this example, the control unit 33 may also control the voltage based on, for example, sensors and navigation systems mounted on the vehicle, changes in the surrounding environment, the passage of time, etc. The control unit 33 may also control the voltage by combining the controls described above.

[0123] (Effects) The light control film 15 according to the first aspect of the present disclosure is a light control film 15 having a first transparent electrode layer 17A and a second transparent electrode layer 17B to which a voltage is applied, and a light control layer 18 provided between the first transparent electrode layer 17A and the second transparent electrode layer 17B, and the light control film 15 has a first segment 20, a second segment 23, and a sub-segment 26 that are electrically unconnected to one another, and the first segment 20 has a first extension portion 21 that extends in a first direction perpendicular to the stacking direction of the first transparent electrode layer 17A and the second transparent electrode layer 17B, and a second extension portion 21 and a first protruding portion 22 protruding from the first segment 20 in a second direction perpendicular to the stacking direction and the first direction, the second segment 23 having a second extending portion 24 positioned further in the second direction than the first extending portion 21 and extending in the first direction, and a second protruding portion 25 protruding from the second extending portion 24 in a third direction opposite the second direction and at a different position in the first direction from the first protruding portion 22, the sub-segment 26 having a plurality of sub-protruding portions 29 aligned in the first direction, with at least one of the first protruding portion 22 and the second protruding portion 25 present between the sub-protruding portions 29. The light control film 15 of the present disclosure has an electrically unconnected first segment 20, second segment 23, and sub-segment 26, allowing light to be controlled individually for each segment, thereby allowing appropriate light to be let in.

[0124] The light control film 15 according to the second aspect of the present disclosure is the light control film 15 according to the first aspect, wherein the sub-segments 26 include sub-extensions that extend in the first direction and connect the sub-projections 29. This allows light to be admitted in the first direction of the sub-segments 26, which corresponds to the first direction of the first projecting portions 22 and the second projecting portions 25.

[0125] The light control film 15 according to the third aspect of the present disclosure is the light control film 15 according to the first or second aspect, in which the first segment 20 has a plurality of first protrusions 22, and the second segment 23 has a plurality of second protrusions 25. This allows for appropriate lighting.

[0126] The light control film 15 according to a fourth aspect of the present disclosure is the light control film 15 according to the third aspect, in which one of the plurality of first protrusions 22 and one of the plurality of second protrusions 25 are provided between the plurality of secondary protrusions 29 aligned in the Y direction. This allows for appropriate lighting.

[0127] The light control film 15 according to a fifth aspect of the present disclosure is the light control film 15 according to the second aspect, except that the sub-segments 26 each include a first sub-extension 27 connecting one end of each of the sub-projections 29 aligned in the first direction and a second sub-extension 28 connecting the other ends of each of the sub-projections 29 aligned in the first direction. By connecting both ends of the sub-projections 29 to the first sub-extension 27 and the second sub-extension 28, the sub-segments 26 can be connected in a continuous manner. In other words, the sub-segments 26 become a single segment, and the number of electrodes 30 can be reduced to one per segment, leading to improved design and cost reduction. This also enables proper lighting.

[0128] The light control film 15 according to a sixth aspect of the present disclosure is the light control film 15 according to any one of the first to fifth aspects, wherein at least one of the first protrusion 22 and the second protrusion 25 is rectangular, trapezoidal, or triangular in plan view. When the first protrusion 22 or the second protrusion 25 is rectangular, trapezoidal, or triangular in plan view, it becomes possible to combine the respective shapes, improving design. Note that these shapes are approximate, and geometric strictness is not required for the sides and vertices.

[0129] The light control film 15 according to a seventh aspect of the present disclosure is the light control film 15 according to any one of the first to sixth aspects, in which the number of secondary protrusions 29 is 1 to 50. By setting the number of secondary protrusions 29 to 1 to 50, it is possible to maintain an appropriate field of vision for the occupant.

[0130] The light control film 15 according to an eighth aspect of the present disclosure is the light control film 15 according to the seventh aspect, in which the number of secondary protrusions 29 is 2 or more and 30 or less. Even in the case where there are two secondary segments 26, by setting the number of secondary protrusions 29 to 2 or more and 30 or less, it is possible to maintain an appropriate field of vision for the occupant.

[0131] The light control film 15 according to a ninth aspect of the present disclosure is the light control film 15 according to any one of the first to eighth aspects, in which the width of the secondary protrusion 29 is narrower than the width of the first protrusion 22 and the second protrusion 25. Making the width of the secondary protrusion 29 narrower than the width of the first protrusion 22 and the second protrusion 25 makes it easier to fine-tune the amount of light that is let in, leading to appropriate light let in.

[0132] The light control film 15 according to a tenth aspect of the present disclosure is the light control film 15 according to any one of the first to ninth aspects, in which the second transparent electrode layer 17B is a common electrode that does not have any electrically disconnected areas across the entire area. This allows electricity to flow across the entire area of ​​the second transparent electrode layer 17B, enabling appropriate transmission according to the shape of each segment.

[0133] A light control film 15 according to an eleventh aspect of the present disclosure is the light control film 15 according to any one of the first to ninth aspects, wherein the first transparent electrode layer 17A has an insulating portion 17A1, and the first segment 20, the second segment 23, and the sub-segment 26 are separated by the insulating portion 17A1. The first transparent electrode layer 17A has the insulating portion 17A1, which allows the first transparent electrode layer 17A to be separated by the insulating portion 17A1. The insulating portion 17A1 provides insulation in the planar directions (X direction and Y direction). Therefore, when light passes through the first segment 20, the second segment 23, and the sub-segment 26, the shapes and patterns formed by the transmission of each segment do not intersect, and the shapes and patterns formed by the transmission can be properly maintained.

[0134] A laminated glass 10 according to a twelfth aspect of the present disclosure includes a first glass plate 11, a second glass plate 12, and a light control film 15 according to any one of the first to tenth aspects provided between the first glass plate 11 and the second glass plate 12. By including the light control film 15 according to any one of the first to ninth aspects, the laminated glass 10 can appropriately let in light.

[0135] The laminated glass 10 according to a thirteenth aspect of the present disclosure is the laminated glass 10 according to the twelfth aspect, and includes a shielding layer 14 that overlaps the peripheral edges of the first glass plate 11 and the second glass plate 12 and the peripheral edge of the light control film 15 in a plan view, and the first extension portion 21 and the second extension portion 24 are positioned to overlap the shielding layer 14 in a plan view. By including the shielding layer 14 and positioning the first extension portion 21 and the second extension portion 24 on the shielding layer 14, the electrode 30 can be concealed, improving the design of the laminated glass 10.

[0136] The laminated glass 10 according to a fourteenth aspect of the present disclosure is the laminated glass 10 according to the thirteenth aspect, wherein the first extension portion 21 and the second extension portion 24 do not overlap with the opening region 14A, which is the region surrounded by the shielding layer 14 in a plan view, and the first protrusion 22, the second protrusion 25, and the sub-protrusion 29 each at least partially overlap with the opening region 14A. The fact that the first extension portion 21 and the second extension portion 24 do not overlap with the opening region 14A improves the design of lighting.

[0137] The laminated glass 10 according to a fifteenth aspect of the present disclosure is the laminated glass 10 according to the fourteenth aspect, wherein, in the opening region 14A, when the total area overlapping the first protrusion 22 is S1, the total area overlapping the second protrusion 25 is S2, and the total area overlapping the multiple sub-protrusions 29 is S3, S1, S2, and S3 satisfy the relationship S1 = S2 = S3. Even if the total area of ​​the protrusions of each segment is the same, light can be let in by the pattern and shape of each segment.

[0138] A vehicle window glass according to a sixteenth aspect of the present disclosure includes the laminated glass 10 according to the twelfth aspect. By including the laminated glass 10 according to the twelfth aspect, the vehicle window glass can appropriately admit light into the vehicle interior.

[0139] Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the present invention is not limited to the contents of these embodiments. Furthermore, the above-described components include those that can be easily imagined by a person skilled in the art, those that are substantially the same, and those that are within the scope of what is called equivalents. Furthermore, the above-described components can be combined as appropriate. Furthermore, various omissions, substitutions, or modifications of the components can be made without departing from the spirit of the above-described embodiments.

[0140] REFERENCE SIGNS LIST 10 Laminated glass 11 First glass plate 12 Second glass plate 13 Intermediate layer 14 Shielding layer 15 Light control film 16 Substrate 17 Electrode layer 17A First transparent electrode layer 17A1 Insulating portion 17B Second transparent electrode layer 18 Light control layer 20 First segment 21 First extension portion 22 First protrusion portion 23 Second segment 24 Second extension portion 25 Second protrusion portion 26, 26A Sub-segment 27, 27A First sub-extension portion 28, 28A Second sub-extension portion 29, 29A Sub-protrusion portion 30 Electrode 31, 32 Wiring 33 Control unit The entire contents of the specification, claims, drawings and abstract of Japanese Patent Application No. 2023-173345 filed on October 5, 2023 are hereby incorporated by reference as the disclosure of the specification of the present invention.

Claims

1. A light control film having a first transparent electrode layer and a second transparent electrode layer to which a voltage is applied, and a light control layer provided between the first transparent electrode layer and the second transparent electrode layer, the light control film having a first segment, a second segment, and a sub-segment that are electrically disconnected from each other, the first segment having a first extension portion extending in a first direction perpendicular to the lamination direction of the first transparent electrode layer and the second transparent electrode layer, and a first protrusion portion protruding from the first extension portion in a second direction perpendicular to the lamination direction and the first direction, the second segment having a second extension portion located in the second direction further than the first extension portion and extending in the first direction, and a second protrusion portion protruding from the second extension portion in a third direction opposite to the second direction and at a different position in the first direction from the first protrusion portion, the sub-segment having a plurality of sub-protrusion portions aligned in the first direction, and at least one of the first protrusion portion and the second protrusion portion being present between the sub-protrusion portions. Light-adjusting film.

2. The light control film of claim 1, wherein the secondary segment includes a secondary extension portion extending in the first direction and connecting the secondary protrusions to each other.

3. A light control film as described in claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the first segment has a plurality of first protrusions, and the second segment has a plurality of second protrusions.

4. The light-controlling film of claim 3, wherein one of a plurality of the first protrusions and a plurality of the second protrusions is provided between the sub-protrusions aligned in the first direction.

5. The light-controlling film of claim 2, wherein the sub-segment has as its sub-extension a first sub-extension connecting one ends of the plurality of sub-projections aligned in the first direction, and a second sub-extension connecting the other ends of the plurality of sub-projections aligned in the first direction.

6. A light-controlling film as described in claim 1 or claim 2, wherein at least one of the first protrusion and the second protrusion is rectangular, trapezoidal or triangular in plan view.

7. The light-controlling film according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the number of the secondary protrusions is 1 or more and 50 or less.

8. The light control film according to claim 7, wherein the number of the minor protrusions is 2 or more and 30 or less.

9. A light-controlling film as described in claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the width of the secondary protrusion is narrower than the widths of the first protrusion and the second protrusion.

10. A light-controlling film as described in claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the second transparent electrode layer is a common electrode that does not have any electrically unconnected areas over its entire area.

11. A light-controlling film as described in claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the first transparent electrode layer has an insulating portion, and the first segment, the second segment and the sub-segment are partitioned by the insulating portion.

12. A laminated glass comprising: a first glass plate and a second glass plate; and the light control film according to claim 1 or 2 provided between the first glass plate and the second glass plate.

13. The laminated glass according to claim 12, further comprising a shielding layer that overlaps, in a plan view, the peripheral edges of the first glass plate and the second glass plate and the peripheral edge of the light control film, and the first extension portion and the second extension portion are positioned so as to overlap the shielding layer in a plan view.

14. The laminated glass described in claim 13, wherein the first extension portion and the second extension portion do not overlap with an opening region which is an area surrounded by the shielding layer in a planar view, and the first protrusion portion, the second protrusion portion and the sub-protrusion portion each overlap at least partially with the opening region.

15. The laminated glass according to claim 14, wherein when the total area of ​​the opening region overlapping the first protrusion is S1, the total area of ​​the opening region overlapping the second protrusion is S2, and the total area of ​​the opening region overlapping the multiple sub-protrusions is S3, S1, S2, and S3 satisfy S1 = S2 = S3.

16. A window glass for a vehicle, comprising the laminated glass according to claim 12.

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