Light control device, light control module, and sealing member

Abstract

The purpose of the present invention is to provide a light control device, a light control module, and a sealing member which can improve appearance and design by allowing a sealing region to be visually recognized in a natural form regardless of a color tone or the degree of light transmission in each of a transparent state and an opaque state of a light control region.　A light control device (1) according to the present invention is attached to a light transmission member (20), said light control device (1) being characterized by comprising: a light control region for switching a transparent state and an opaque state by switching between an electrically conductive state and an electrically non-conductive state; and a sealing region for sealing at least a portion of an edge of the light control region, wherein, when the visible light transmittance of the light control region in the opaque state is represented as X (%), the visible light transmittance of the light control region in the transparent state is represented as Y (%), and the visible light transmittance of a region that is in the sealing region and that does not overlap with the light control region is represented as Z (%), X ≤ Z ≤ Y is satisfied.

Description

Light control device, light control module, and sealing member

[0001] The present invention relates to a light control device, a light control module, and a sealing member.

[0002] Patent document 1 describes a functional element with electrically controllable optical properties. The functional element includes a stack arrangement made of a first carrier film, a first surface electrode, an active layer, a second surface electrode, and a second carrier film. The second carrier film has protruding regions on all sides that extend beyond the respective side edges of the first carrier film, and a barrier film is arranged on at least one edge region of the first carrier film and on the protruding regions of the second carrier film.

[0003] Patent Document 2 describes a PDLC panel that includes a glass front substrate having transparent electrode pixels, a plastic rear substrate having an electrode opposite to the front substrate, and PDLC sandwiched between the front and rear substrates. A seal is also provided around the entire side of the PDLC panel and between the non-parallel surfaces of the front and rear substrates.

[0004] A conventional light control device including the functional elements of Patent Document 1 and the PDLC panel of Patent Document 2 switches between a transparent state and an opaque state by switching between a powered state and a non-powered state.

[0005] Patent No. 7191986 Publication JP-A-6-186574

[0006] However, according to the inventor's intensive research, conventional light control devices including the functional elements of Patent Document 1 and the PDLC panel of Patent Document 2 have the following technical problem: Namely, the color tone and light transmittance in the transparent and opaque states of the light control device may differ individually and specifically, and the sealing member including the barrier film of Patent Document 1 and the seal of Patent Document 2 may be visually perceived in an unnatural (strange, conspicuous) manner, which may result in a deterioration in the appearance and design.

[0007] The present invention was completed based on the above-mentioned concerns, and aims to provide a dimming device, dimming module, and sealing member that can improve appearance and design by allowing the sealed area to be viewed in a natural manner regardless of the color tone and light transmittance in the transparent and opaque states of the dimming area.

[0008] The dimming device of this embodiment is a dimming device attached to a light-transmitting member, and has a dimming area that switches between a transparent state and an opaque state by switching between an energized state and an unenergized state, and a sealing area that seals at least a part of the periphery of the dimming area, and is characterized in that when the visible light transmittance of the dimming area in the opaque state is X (%), the visible light transmittance of the dimming area in the transparent state is Y (%), and the visible light transmittance of the sealing area that does not overlap with the dimming area is Z (%), X≦Z≦Y is satisfied.

[0009] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a dimming device, dimming module, and sealing member that can improve appearance and design by allowing the sealing area to be viewed in a natural manner regardless of the color tone or light transmittance in the transparent and opaque states of the dimming area.

[0010] 1 is a diagram showing an example of a layered structure of a light control device; FIG. 2 is a plan view showing an example of the external shape of a light control module; FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view taken along line III-III in FIG. 2; FIG. 4 is a first enlarged view showing a location where an end of a light control module is supported on a sash member; FIG. 5 is a second enlarged view showing a location where an end of a light control module is supported on a sash member; FIG. 6 is an enlarged view showing a location of a translucent member facing a light control device; FIG. 7 is a first view for explaining the difference in appearance when the visible light transmittance of a region of the sealing region that does not overlap with the light control region is made different in the transparent state and the opaque state of the light control region; FIG. 8 is a second view for explaining the difference in appearance when the visible light transmittance of a region of the sealing region that does not overlap with the light control region is made different in the transparent state and the opaque state of the light control region; FIG. 9 is a third view for explaining the difference in appearance when the visible light transmittance of a region of the sealing region that does not overlap with the light control region is made different in the transparent state and the opaque state of the light control region.

[0011] <Definitions of Terms, etc.> In this specification, the term "light-transmitting member" may be read as a "light-transmitting plate" or a "light-transmitting window," and is used as a concept including a "glass member," a "glass plate," or a "glass window." That is, in this specification, a "glass member (glass plate, glass window)" is described as an example of a "light-transmitting member (light-transmitting plate, light-transmitting window)," but the "light-transmitting member (light-transmitting plate, light-transmitting window)" may be made of materials other than glass, including various plastics and other materials. For example, the "light-transmitting member (light-transmitting plate, light-transmitting window)" may be made of polycarbonate.

[0012] In this specification, a "dimming module" refers to a light-transmitting member and a dimming device attached to the light-transmitting member. As its name suggests, a light-transmitting member possesses translucency as its own property. A dimming device ensures the translucency of the light-transmitting member and thus the dimming module (transparent) by not performing its dimming function, while it inhibits the translucency of the light-transmitting member and thus the dimming module (opaque) by performing its dimming function. Dimming devices are available in normal types (normal mode) that are transparent when energized and opaque when deenergized, and reverse types (reverse mode) that are transparent when deenergized and opaque when energized. "Dimmer functioning" refers to the normal type being deenergized and the reverse type being energized, while "dimming function not performing" refers to the normal type being energized and the reverse type being deenergized. In this way, a dimming device can be switched between a transparent state and an opaque state by switching between an energized state and a deenergized state. Here, the transparent state does not mean a visible light transmittance of 100% (does not mean a strict transparent state), and the opaque state does not mean a visible light transmittance of 0% (does not mean a strict opaque state), and each is used to mean a semi-transparent state. Furthermore, in this specification, the "dimming device" may refer to a component of a dimming module, and may refer to the dimming device in a state before being attached to a translucent member.

[0013] In this specification, the dimming method using the dimming module (dimming device) may be, for example, a polymer dispersed liquid crystal (PDLC) method or a polymer network liquid crystal (PNLC) method. Alternatively, the dimming method using the dimming module (dimming device) may be an electrochromic (EC) method, a liquid crystal (LC) method, or a suspended particle device (SPD) method.

[0014] In this specification, the light control device has a "light control region that switches between a transparent state and an opaque state by switching between an energized state and an unenergized state" and a "sealed region that seals at least a portion of the periphery of the light control region." The light control region may refer to, for example, substantially the entire area excluding the periphery of a light control sheet (light control film) that has a light control layer, a pair of transparent conductive layers located on both sides of the light control layer, and a pair of transparent substrate layers located on both sides of the pair of transparent conductive layers. Furthermore, the light control region may be defined as the region where the light control function of the light control sheet (light control film) is exerted and the visible light transmittance changes, and / or the region of the light control sheet (light control film) where the light control layer is present when viewed in plan.

[0015] The sealing region may be configured to include, for example, a sealing member (e.g., a material that can be UV-cured in a short time) that seals at least a portion of the periphery of the light-adjusting sheet (it may be a component separate from the light-adjusting sheet). Alternatively, the sealing region may be configured to include a sealing functional layer provided at a position corresponding to at least a portion of the periphery of the light-adjusting sheet (it may be a component of the light-adjusting sheet). Alternatively, the sealing region may be configured to include a sealing member provided in a translucent member (glass) at a position corresponding to at least a portion of the periphery of the light-adjusting sheet (it may be a component of the translucent member separate from the light-adjusting sheet).

[0016] In this specification, the light-transmitting member to which the light control device is attached may include a so-called one-piece or two-piece light-transmitting member. In the case of a one-piece light-transmitting member, the light control device may be attached to the surface of the one-piece light-transmitting member. In the case of a two-piece light-transmitting member, the light control device may be supported by being sandwiched between the two light-transmitting members through an intermediate layer (intermediate film), or the light control device may be attached to the surface of one of the two light-transmitting members. In this way, there is a degree of freedom in the structure for attaching the light control device to the light-transmitting member, and various design modifications are possible.

[0017] In this specification, the terms "upper surface" and "lower surface" may be defined as, for example, the upper and lower surfaces in a drawing (these may be defined based on the vertical direction in the drawing). Furthermore, in this specification, the terms "outside" and "outer support layer" may be defined as the outside of a certain reference (center) layer, or as a layer supported on the outside of the certain reference (center) layer, regardless of the vertical direction in the drawing. For example, consider a laminated structure in which a certain reference (center) layer A is provided, layer B is provided on both sides of layer A, and layer C is provided on both sides of layer B. In this case, layer B is an "outer support layer" supported on the "outside" of layer A, and layer C is an "outer support layer" supported on the "outside" of layers A and B. In this sense, "outside" and "outer support layer" may be read as "upper layer" and "upper support layer," and in this case, the further away from a certain reference (center) layer, the higher the layer is defined as the upper layer, and the closer to the certain reference (center) layer, the lower the layer is defined as the lower layer.

[0018] <Conventional Technical Issues> Recently, from the perspectives of environmental light adjustment and privacy protection, light-controlling devices that can control transparency or opacity by applying voltage have come to be used in partitions, residential windows, cars, etc. Light-controlling devices generally have a structure in which the edges are protected by an encapsulant, taking into account reliability and other factors. For example, light-controlling devices used in building materials often change between opaque and transparent states (the opaque state is white) to adjust transparency or opacity by controlling the scattering of transmitted light with voltage. However, in recent years, there has been a demand for devices that can be controlled to black or transparency (or semi-transparent) (the opaque state is black) in consideration of environmental issues, solar radiation control (light blocking properties), and design aspects.

[0019] However, according to the inventor's intensive research, the color tone and light transmittance of the light-adjusting device may differ specifically between the transparent and opaque states, and the sealant protecting the peripheral portion of the light-adjusting device (e.g., the barrier film of Patent Document 1 or the sticker of Patent Document 2) may be visually perceived in an unnatural (strange, conspicuous) manner, which may result in a reduction in appearance and design. Specifically, the sealant protecting the peripheral portion of the light-adjusting device may be exposed at the outer periphery or abutment portion near the sash, which may result in a reduction in appearance and design. This reduction in appearance and design may be a problem even when the color tone of the light-adjusting device in the opaque state is white (so-called white dimming), but is more likely to be a significant problem when the color tone of the light-adjusting device in the opaque state is black (so-called black dimming) or colored (so-called color dimming).

[0020] <Technical Concept of the Present Invention> The inventors of the present invention considered the above-mentioned problems to be an important technical objective and came up with the idea of ​​a structure that allows the sealed area to be viewed in a natural manner, regardless of the color tone or light transmittance in the transparent and opaque states of the light control area, thereby improving the appearance and design. That is, the visible light transmittance of the sealed area that does not overlap with the light control area is optimally set based on the visible light transmittance of the light control area in the opaque state and the visible light transmittance of the light control area in the transparent state. More specifically, when the visible light transmittance of the light control area in the opaque state is X (%), the visible light transmittance of the light control area in the transparent state is Y (%), and the visible light transmittance of the sealed area that does not overlap with the light control area is Z (%), X≦Z≦Y is satisfied.

[0021] By setting the visible light transmittance of the peripheral sealing portion (sealed area) to an appropriate value within the range of visible light transmittance change of the light-controlling sheet (light-controlling area), it is possible to provide a light-controlling device with excellent appearance and design both when transparent and when opaque. Similarly, it is possible to optimally set the visible light transmittance of the sealing structure (sealed area) when the light-controlling sheet itself has a sealing structure on the periphery, and when the light-controlling device has a sealing structure on the periphery when attached to glass or the like.

[0022] The visible light transmittance Z (%) of the region of the sealing region that does not overlap with the dimming region preferably satisfies 5≦Z≦95. This allows the sealing region to be viewed in a natural manner across all cases, whether the opaque color of the dimming region is white (so-called white dimming), black (so-called black dimming), or colored (so-called color dimming), thereby improving the appearance and design. Furthermore, regardless of whether the sealing region is a normal type (normal mode) that is transparent when energized and opaque when de-energized, or a reverse type (reverse mode) that is transparent when de-energized and opaque when energized, the sealing region can be viewed in a natural manner, thereby improving the appearance and design.

[0023] The sealing region has a sealing member that seals at least a portion of the periphery of the dimming region, and the sealing member is preferably made of a material with a transmittance of 50% or more for UV light of 380 nm or less. This allows the sealing member to be made of a material that can be UV-cured in a short time. Furthermore, the sealing member may be made of a material that has curing properties such as heat curing and moisture absorption curing in addition to UV curing. Furthermore, the sealing member may be a coating-type material such as an epoxy-based resin, an acrylic-based resin, or a silicone-based resin, or may be a tape-shaped material.

[0024] Assume that the light control region is transparent when energized and opaque when deenergized, and is white in color when opaque (normal type, white dimming). In this case, the visible light transmittance of the light control region tends to be high and with little difference between the transparent and opaque states. For example, it is preferable that the visible light transmittance X (%) of the light control region in the opaque state satisfies 75≦X≦95, and the visible light transmittance Y (%) of the light control region in the transparent state satisfies 85≦Y≦95. In this case, it is also preferable that the visible light transmittance Z (%) of the region of the sealed region that does not overlap with the light control region satisfies 75≦Z≦95. It is even more preferable that the visible light transmittance X (%) of the light control region in the opaque state satisfies 75≦X≦81, the visible light transmittance Y (%) of the light control region in the transparent state satisfies 85≦Y≦91, and the visible light transmittance Z (%) of the sealed region that does not overlap with the light control region satisfies 75≦Z≦91.

[0025] Assume that the photochromic region is opaque when energized and transparent when de-energized, and that the color in the opaque state is white (reverse type, white photochromic). In this case, the visible light transmittance of the photochromic region tends to be high and have a small difference between the transparent and opaque states. For example, it is preferable that the visible light transmittance X (%) of the photochromic region in the opaque state satisfies 85≦X≦95, and the visible light transmittance Y (%) of the photochromic region in the transparent state satisfies 87≦Y≦95. In this case, it is also preferable that the visible light transmittance Z (%) of the region of the sealed region that does not overlap with the photochromic region satisfies 85≦Z≦95. It is also more preferable that the visible light transmittance X (%) of the photochromic region in the opaque state satisfies 85≦X≦91, the visible light transmittance Y (%) of the photochromic region in the transparent state satisfies 87≦Y≦93, and the visible light transmittance Z (%) of the sealed region that does not overlap with the photochromic region satisfies 85≦Z≦93.

[0026] Assume that the photochromic region is transparent when energized and opaque when deenergized, and is black in color when opaque (normal type, black photochromic). In this case, the visible light transmittance of the photochromic region is approximately 50% when transparent and less than 10% when opaque, with a tendency for the difference between the two to be large. For example, it is preferable that the visible light transmittance X (%) of the photochromic region in the opaque state satisfies 5≦X≦15, and the visible light transmittance Y (%) of the photochromic region in the transparent state satisfies 40≦Y≦60. In this case, it is also preferable that the visible light transmittance Z (%) of the region of the sealed region that does not overlap with the photochromic region satisfies 5≦Z≦60. It is even more preferable that the visible light transmittance X (%) of the photochromic region in the opaque state satisfies 5≦X≦8, the visible light transmittance Y (%) of the photochromic region in the transparent state satisfies 45≦Y≦52, and the visible light transmittance Z (%) of the sealed region that does not overlap with the photochromic region satisfies 5≦Z≦52.

[0027] Furthermore, the visible light transmittance Z (%) of the region of the sealed region that does not overlap with the light control region preferably satisfies 30≦Z≦45, even within the range satisfying 5≦Z≦52 or 5≦Z≦60 as described above. According to the inventor's extensive research, changes in the transmittance of the sealed region tend to have a greater impact (making the sealed region more noticeable) when the light control region is transparent than when it is opaque. For this reason, it is preferable to set the visible light transmittance Z of the region of the sealed region that does not overlap with the light control region (here, 30% to 45%, for example) so that it is slightly higher than the average value (here, 27.5%) of the visible light transmittance X of the light control region in the opaque state (here, 5% for example) and the visible light transmittance Y of the light control region in the transparent state (here, 50% for example).

[0028] In other words, the visible light transmittance X (%) of the light control region in an opaque state, the visible light transmittance Y (%) of the light control region in a transparent state, and the visible light transmittance Z (%) of the region of the sealing region that does not overlap with the light control region preferably satisfy 0.5(X+Y)≦Z≦0.8(X+Y), more preferably satisfy 0.55(X+Y)≦Z≦0.78(X+Y), and even more preferably satisfy 0.6(X+Y)≦Z≦0.75(X+Y). According to the inventor's extensive research, changes in the transmittance of the region of the sealing region that does not overlap with the light control region tend to have a greater impact (the sealing region is more noticeable) when the light control region is transparent than when it is opaque. For this reason, it is preferable to set the visible light transmittance Z (%) of the region of the sealed region that does not overlap with the light control region so that it is in a range slightly higher than the average value 0.5(X+Y) (%) of the visible light transmittance X (%) in the opaque state of the light control region and the visible light transmittance Y (%) in the transparent state of the light control region.

[0029] Incidentally, in the prior art including Patent Documents 1 and 2, the degree of light transmission (visible light transmittance) of the sealing material (for example, the barrier film of Patent Document 1 or the seal of Patent Document 2) is set without considering the color tone and the degree of light transmission (visible light transmittance) of the transparent and opaque states of the light-adjusting device. For this reason, the above-mentioned condition (for example, X≦Z≦Y) of the present embodiment is not satisfied, and the sealing material is visually perceived in an unnatural (strange, conspicuous) manner, which may result in a deterioration in appearance and design.

[0030] <Specific Embodiments> Fig. 1 is a diagram showing an example of a layered structure of a light control device (light control sheet). Fig. 2 is a plan view showing an example of the external shape of a light control module. Fig. 3 is a cross-sectional view taken along line III-III in Fig. 2. Fig. 4 is a first enlarged view showing a location where an end of the light control module is supported by a sash member. Fig. 5 is a second enlarged view showing a location where an end of the light control module is supported by a sash member. Fig. 6 is an enlarged view showing a location of a light-transmitting member facing the light control device (light control sheet).

[0031] The light control device 1 has a light control sheet (light control film) 10. The light control sheet 10 has a light control layer (liquid crystal layer) 11. The light control layer 11 contains a liquid crystal composition. The light control layer 11 is composed of, for example, a polymer network liquid crystal (PNLC: Polymer Network Liquid Crystal), a polymer dispersed liquid crystal (PDLC: Polymer Dispersed Liquid Crystal), or an encapsulated nematic liquid crystal (NCAP: Nematic Curvilinear Aligned Phase). For example, a polymer network liquid crystal has a polymer network with a three-dimensional mesh shape, and holds liquid crystal molecules in the voids of the polymer network. The liquid crystal molecules contained in the light control layer 11 have, for example, a positive dielectric anisotropy, and the dielectric constant in the long axis direction of the liquid crystal molecules is greater than the dielectric constant in the short axis direction of the liquid crystal molecules. The liquid crystal molecules are, for example, Schiff base, azo, azoxy, biphenyl, terphenyl, benzoate, tolan, pyrimidine, cyclohexanecarboxylic acid ester, phenylcyclohexane, and dioxane liquid crystal molecules.

[0032] A transparent conductive layer (transparent electrode layer) 12X is provided on the outside of one surface (top surface in the figure) of the light-modulating layer 11, and a transparent substrate layer 13X is provided on the outside of the transparent conductive layer 12X. A transparent conductive layer (transparent electrode layer) 12Y is provided on the outside of the other surface (bottom surface in the figure) of the light-modulating layer 11, and a transparent substrate layer 13Y is provided on the outside of the transparent conductive layer 12Y. In this way, the light-modulating sheet 10 has the light-modulating layer 11, a pair of transparent conductive layers 12X, 12Y located on both sides of the light-modulating layer 11, and a pair of transparent substrate layers 13X, 13Y located on both sides of the pair of transparent conductive layers 12X, 12Y.

[0033] The transparent conductive layers 12X and 12Y are transparent layers having electrical conductivity. Examples of materials that can be used to form the transparent conductive layers 12X and 12Y include indium tin oxide (ITO), fluorine-doped tin oxide (FTO), tin oxide, zinc oxide, carbon nanotubes (CNT), polymers containing poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT), and multilayer films containing Ag alloy thin films. The transparent substrate layers 13X and 13Y are layers that contain a material such as PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate).

[0034] In addition, additional or alternative layers may be provided as "outer support layers" located outside the transparent substrate layers 13X and 13Y. In other words, the number and type of "outer support layers" are flexible, allowing for various design modifications. For example, a transparent support layer made of a transparent substrate may be provided as the "outer support layer." Examples of the transparent support layer include a glass substrate, a silicon substrate, or a polymer film made of polyethylene, polystyrene, polyethylene terephthalate, polyvinyl alcohol, polycarbonate, polyvinyl chloride, polyimide, polysulfone, cycloolefin polymer, triacetyl cellulose, etc. Furthermore, examples of the "outer support layer" include a layer for protecting the light-controlling layer 11, the transparent conductive layers 12X and 12Y, and the transparent substrate layers 13X and 13Y, a layer that contributes to controlling the light transmittance of the light-controlling sheet 10, and a layer that enhances the strength, heat resistance, and other properties of the light-controlling sheet 10.

[0035] 1, 4, and 6, the ends (end faces) of the light controlling sheet 10 are flush with each other and are aligned without misalignment when viewed in a plan view. In contrast, in the examples of Figures 3 and 5, the ends (end faces) of the light controlling sheet 10 are not flush with each other and are aligned so that their positions are misaligned when viewed in a plan view.

[0036] 3 and 5 , when focusing on the right end (right end surface) of the light-adjusting sheet 10, the transparent conductive layer 12Y and transparent substrate layer 13Y provided on the other surface (bottom surface in the figure) of the light-adjusting layer 11 are provided with a step portion DX (a half-cut portion) that protrudes to the right from the transparent conductive layer 12X and transparent substrate layer 13X provided on one surface (top surface in the figure) of the light-adjusting layer 11. An electrode portion 14 that applies a drive voltage to the light-adjusting device 1 (light-adjusting sheet 10) is provided on the upper surface of the transparent conductive layer 12Y located to the right of the step portion DX. A wiring portion 15, such as an FPC (Flexible Printed Circuit), is connected to the electrode portion 14. Also, although not shown in the figure, the transparent conductive layer 12X and transparent substrate layer 13X provided on one side (top side in the figure) of the dimming layer 11 may have a step portion DX protruding from the transparent conductive layer 12Y and transparent substrate layer 13Y provided on the other side (bottom side in the figure) of the dimming layer 11 (a half-cut portion is formed), and an electrode portion 14 and a wiring portion 15 for applying a driving voltage to the dimming device 1 (dimming sheet 10) may be provided on the underside of the transparent conductive layer 12X protruding from the step portion DX.

[0037] The electrode portion 14 and the wiring portion 15 are shown in Fig. 2, and each pair of electrode portion 14 and wiring portion 15 is provided in a portion located above the step portion DX formed on the upper side of Fig. 2, and is spaced apart in the left-right direction. Here, the electrode portion 14 and wiring portion 15 depicted on the left side of Fig. 2 are provided on the surface of the light-adjusting sheet 10 on the near side of the paper, for example, the surface of transparent conductive layer 12Y, and the electrode portion 14 and wiring portion 15 depicted on the right side of Fig. 2 may be provided on the surface of the light-adjusting sheet 10 on the far side of the paper, for example, the surface of transparent conductive layer 12X. In other words, each pair of electrode portion 14 and wiring portion 15 may be provided on one side and the other side of the front and back surfaces of the light-adjusting sheet 10.

[0038] In the dimming device 1 (dimming sheet 10) configured as described above, when a driving current is passed through the transparent conductive layers 12X and 12Y via the electrode section 14 and the wiring section 15, a driving voltage is applied between the transparent conductive layers 12X and 12Y, i.e., to the dimming layer 11.

[0039] When no driving voltage is applied between the transparent conductive layers 12X and 12Y (the light-controlling layer 11), the orientation of the long axis direction of the liquid crystal molecules in the light-controlling layer 11 is irregular. As a result, light incident on the light-controlling layer 11 is scattered, and the light-controlling device 1 (light-controlling sheet 10) appears cloudy (white light control). In other words, the light-controlling device 1 (light-controlling sheet 10) is opaque.

[0040] On the other hand, when a drive voltage is applied between the transparent conductive layers 12X and 12Y (the light-controlling layer 11), the liquid crystal molecules in the light-controlling layer 11 are oriented, with the long axis direction of the liquid crystal molecules oriented along the electric field direction between the transparent conductive layers 12X and 12Y. As a result, light is more easily transmitted through the light-controlling layer 11, and the light-controlling device 1 (the light-controlling sheet 10) becomes transparent. In this way, the light-controlling device 1 (the light-controlling sheet 10) functions as a normal type (normal mode).

[0041] The light control device 1 (light control sheet 10) may also include a pair of alignment layers sandwiching the light control layer 11 between the light control layer 11 and the transparent conductive layers 12X and 12Y. The alignment layers control the alignment of the liquid crystal molecules contained in the light control layer 11, and align the liquid crystal molecules along the normal direction of the alignment layers when no driving voltage is applied. In a configuration including alignment layers, the light control device 1 (light control sheet 10) becomes opaque when a driving voltage is applied between the transparent conductive layers 12X and 12Y (light control layer 11). When no driving voltage is applied between the transparent conductive layers 12X and 12Y (light control layer 11), the light control device 1 (light control sheet 10) becomes transparent (functioning as a reverse type (reverse mode)). Examples of materials constituting the alignment layers include organic compounds such as polyimide, polyamide, polyvinyl alcohol, and cyanide compounds, inorganic compounds such as silicon oxide and zirconium oxide, and silicone. The alignment treatment for forming the alignment layer is, for example, a rubbing treatment, a polarized light irradiation treatment, or a microfabrication treatment.

[0042] The light-controlling layer 11 may also contain a dye having a predetermined color that does not interfere with the movement of liquid crystal molecules in response to the magnitude of the voltage applied to the light-controlling layer 11. A dichroic dye and black spacers may also be added to the light-controlling layer 11. This configuration achieves a light-controlling device 1 (light-controlling sheet 10) having a predetermined color. In other words, black light control and color light control are possible.

[0043] The light control device 1 (light control sheet 10) is used for various purposes, for example, by cutting into a desired shape a large sheet made of a multilayer body including each layer that constitutes the light control device 1 (light control sheet 10). For example, the light control device 1 (light control sheet 10) can be used in various applications, such as a light control film that normally requires transparent glass but blocks view from inside and outside only at specific times, office partitions, laminated glass, frosted glass, etc. The light control device 1 (light control sheet 10) can also be installed in the upper region of a car's windshield to provide a partial sun visor function.

[0044] 4 to 6 , the light-adjusting device 1 (light-adjusting sheet 10) is attached (adhered) to a light-transmitting member 20 made of glass or polycarbonate. This forms a light-adjusting module 1X. The light-adjusting sheet 10 has an adhesive layer (bonding layer) 16 located on the outer side (lower layer) of the transparent base material layer 13Y, and the light-adjusting device 1 (light-adjusting sheet 10) is attached (adhered) to the light-transmitting member 20 via this adhesive layer (bonding layer) 16.

[0045] Here, as shown in Figures 3 to 6, substantially the entire area of ​​the light control device 1 (light control sheet 10) excluding the periphery (edge) thereof is defined as the "light control region." Furthermore, the "light control region" is defined as the region where the light control function of the light control sheet 10 is exhibited and the visible light transmittance changes, and / or the region of the light control sheet 10 where the light control layer 11 is present when viewed in a plan view. Furthermore, a "sealing region" that seals the periphery (edge) of the light control device 1 (light control sheet 10) is defined. This "sealing region" is composed of a sealing member 30 that seals the periphery (edge) of the light control device 1 (light control sheet 10). For example, in Figure 2, the "sealing region" seals the entire periphery (entire periphery) of the "light control region," but it is sufficient for the "sealing region" to seal at least a portion of the periphery of the "light control region."

[0046] It is assumed that a first electrode portion and a first wiring portion (for example, the electrode portion 14 and the wiring portion 15 depicted on the left side of FIG. 2) are provided on one side (front surface) of the light control device 1 (light control sheet 10), and a second electrode portion and a second wiring portion (for example, the electrode portion 14 and the wiring portion 15 depicted on the right side of FIG. 2) are provided on the other side (back surface) of the light control device 1 (light control sheet 10), and the "sealed area" seals the entire periphery (entire perimeter) of the "light control area." In this case, the "sealed area" may have a special half-cut structure for switching (connecting) the sealing (surface) between one side (front surface) of the light control device 1 (light control sheet 10) on which the first electrode portion and the first wiring portion are provided and the other side (back surface) of the light control device 1 (light control sheet 10) on which the second electrode portion and the second wiring portion are provided. That is, the case may also include a case where the "sealed area" is provided on the entire periphery (whole perimeter) of the combined front and back surfaces of the light-adjusting device 1 (light-adjusting sheet 10).

[0047] The sealing member 30 is made of, for example, a material that can be UV-cured in a short time. The sealing member 30 may be made of a material that has curing properties such as heat curing or moisture absorption curing in addition to UV curing. The sealing member 30 may also be a coating-type material such as an epoxy resin, an acrylic resin, or a silicone resin, or may be a tape-shaped material.

[0048] The sealing member 30 has the function of protecting the electrode portion 14 and wiring portion 15 provided on the light-controlling sheet 10, the exposed ends of the light-controlling layer 11, the transparent conductive layers 12X and 12Y, and the transparent substrate layers 13X and 13Y, as well as the translucent member 20.

[0049] In the examples of Figures 3 and 5, the sealing member 30 forms a sealing block that seals the right end (right end face) of the dimming layer 11, transparent conductive layer 12X, and transparent substrate layer 13X, which are the side of the step portion DX, the upper surface of the right end (right end face) side of the transparent substrate layer 13X above the step portion DX, and the upper surface of the right end (right end face) side of the transparent conductive layer 12Y below the step portion DX.

[0050] In the example of Figure 4, the sealing member 30 forms a sealing block that seals the right end portions (right end faces) of the dimming layer 11, the transparent conductive layers 12X and 12Y, and the transparent substrate layers 13X and 13Y, the upper surface of the right end portion (right end face) side of the transparent substrate layer 13X, and the upper surface of the right end portion (right end face) side of the light-transmitting member 20.

[0051] 6, two light-modulating sheets 10 are provided facing each other in the left-right direction on the upper surface of the light-transmitting member 20. The sealing member 30 seals the upper surfaces of the right end (right end surface) of the light-modulating layer 11, the transparent conductive layers 12X, 12Y, and the transparent substrate layers 13X, 13Y, and the right end (right end surface) of the transparent substrate layer 13X in the left-side light-modulating sheet 10, and the left end (left end surface) of the light-modulating layer 11, the transparent conductive layers 12X, 12Y, and the transparent substrate layers 13X, 13Y, and the left end (left end surface) of the transparent substrate layer 13X in the right-side light-modulating sheet 10, as well as the opposing space between the left and right light-modulating sheets 10 (including the upper surfaces of the light-transmitting members 20).

[0052] 4 and 5 , the right end (right end surface) of the dimming module 1X is supported by a sash member (frame member) 40. The sash member 40 has a housing space 41 that is open toward the left in the drawings, and an elastic support member (rubber packing) 50 is fitted into this housing space 41. The right end (right end surface) of the dimming module 1X is elastically supported by the elastic support member 50.

[0053] In the light control device 1 and light control module 1X of this embodiment, when the visible light transmittance of the light control sheet 10 in its opaque state is X (%), the visible light transmittance of the light control sheet 10 in its transparent state is Y (%), and the visible light transmittance of the sealed region (e.g., sealing member 30) that does not overlap with the light control region is Z (%), X≦Z≦Y is satisfied. This allows the sealed region (e.g., sealing member 30) to be viewed in a natural manner, regardless of the color and light transmittance of the light control sheet 10 in its transparent and opaque states, thereby improving the appearance and design. If the condition X≦Z≦Y is not satisfied, the sealed region (e.g., sealing member 30) may be viewed in an unnatural (strange, conspicuous) manner, which may result in a reduction in the appearance and design.

[0054] The visible light transmittance Z (%) of the sealing region (e.g., sealing member 30) that does not overlap with the light-adjusting region preferably satisfies 5≦Z≦95. This allows the sealing region (e.g., sealing member 30) to be viewed in a natural manner across the entire range, whether the opaque color of the light-adjusting sheet 10 is white (so-called white light-adjusting), black (so-called black light-adjusting), or colored (so-called color light-adjusting), thereby improving the appearance and design. Furthermore, regardless of whether the sheet is a normal type (normal mode) that is transparent when energized and opaque when de-energized, or a reverse type (reverse mode) that is transparent when de-energized and opaque when energized, the sealing region (e.g., sealing member 30) to be viewed in a natural manner, thereby improving the appearance and design. If the condition 5≦Z≦95 is not satisfied, the sealing region (e.g., sealing member 30) may be viewed in an unnatural (strange, conspicuous) manner, which may result in a reduction in the appearance and design.

[0055] The sealing member 30 preferably seals at least a portion of the periphery of the light controlling sheet 10 and is made of a material with a transmittance of 50% or more for UV light of 380 nm or less. This allows the sealing member 30 to be made of a material that can be UV-cured in a short time. Furthermore, the sealing member 30 may be made of a material that has curing properties such as heat curing and moisture absorption curing in addition to UV curing. Furthermore, the sealing member 30 may be a coating-type material such as an epoxy-based resin, an acrylic-based resin, or a silicone-based resin, or may be a tape-shaped material.

[0056] Assume that the light-controlling sheet 10 is transparent when energized and opaque when de-energized, and is white in color when opaque (normal type, white light-controlling). In this case, the visible light transmittance of the light-controlling sheet 10 tends to be high and have a small difference between the transparent and opaque states. For example, it is preferable that the visible light transmittance X (%) of the light-controlling sheet 10 in the opaque state satisfies 75≦X≦95, and the visible light transmittance Y (%) of the light-controlling sheet 10 in the transparent state satisfies 85≦Y≦95. In this case, it is also preferable that the visible light transmittance Z (%) of the sealing region (e.g., sealing member 30) that does not overlap with the light-controlling region satisfies 75≦Z≦95. It is more preferable that the visible light transmittance X (%) of the light-adjusting sheet 10 in its opaque state satisfies 75≦X≦81, the visible light transmittance Y (%) of the light-adjusting sheet 10 in its transparent state satisfies 85≦Y≦91, and the visible light transmittance Z (%) of the sealed region (e.g., sealing member 30) in the region that does not overlap with the light-adjusting region satisfies 75≦Z≦91. This allows the sealed region (e.g., sealing member 30) to be viewed in a natural manner in the normal-type, white-light-adjusting light-adjusting sheet 10, improving the appearance and design.

[0057] Assume that the light-controlling sheet 10 is opaque when energized and transparent when de-energized, and that its color in the opaque state is white (reverse type, white light control). In this case, the visible light transmittance of the light-controlling sheet 10 tends to be high and have a small difference between the transparent and opaque states. For example, it is preferable that the visible light transmittance X (%) of the light-controlling sheet 10 in the opaque state satisfies 85≦X≦95, and the visible light transmittance Y (%) of the light-controlling sheet 10 in the transparent state satisfies 87≦Y≦95. In this case, it is also preferable that the visible light transmittance Z (%) of the sealing region (e.g., sealing member 30) that does not overlap with the light-controlling region satisfies 85≦Z≦95. It is more preferable that the visible light transmittance X (%) of the light-adjusting sheet 10 in its opaque state satisfies 85≦X≦91, the visible light transmittance Y (%) of the light-adjusting sheet 10 in its transparent state satisfies 87≦Y≦93, and the visible light transmittance Z (%) of the region of the sealing region (e.g., the sealing member 30) that does not overlap with the light-adjusting region satisfies 85≦Z≦93. This allows the sealing region (e.g., the sealing member 30) to be viewed in a natural manner in the reverse-type, white-light-adjusting light-adjusting sheet 10, thereby improving the appearance and design.

[0058] Assume that the light-adjusting sheet 10 is transparent when energized and opaque when de-energized, and is black in color when opaque (normal type, black light-adjusting). In this case, the visible light transmittance of the light-adjusting sheet 10 is approximately 50% when transparent and less than 10% when opaque, with a tendency for the difference between the two to be large. For example, it is preferable that the visible light transmittance X (%) of the light-adjusting sheet 10 in the opaque state satisfies 5≦X≦15, and the visible light transmittance Y (%) of the light-adjusting sheet 10 in the transparent state satisfies 40≦Y≦60. In this case, it is also preferable that the visible light transmittance Z (%) of the sealing region (e.g., sealing member 30) that does not overlap with the light-adjusting region satisfies 5≦Z≦60. It is more preferable that the visible light transmittance X (%) of the light-adjusting sheet 10 in its opaque state satisfies 5≦X≦8, the visible light transmittance Y (%) of the light-adjusting sheet 10 in its transparent state satisfies 45≦Y≦52, and the visible light transmittance Z (%) of the area of ​​the sealing region (e.g., the sealing member 30) that does not overlap with the light-adjusting region satisfies 5≦Z≦52. This allows the sealing region (e.g., the sealing member 30) to be viewed in a natural manner in the normal type, black light-adjusting sheet 10, thereby improving the appearance and design.

[0059] Furthermore, the visible light transmittance Z (%) of the region of the sealing member 30 that does not overlap with the light control region preferably satisfies 30≦Z≦45, even within the range satisfying 5≦Z≦52 or 5≦Z≦60. According to extensive research by the present inventors, changes in the transmittance of the sealing member 30 tend to have a greater impact (the sealing member 30 is more noticeable) when the light controlling sheet 10 is transparent than when it is opaque. For this reason, it is preferable to set the visible light transmittance Z of the region of the sealing region (e.g., the sealing member 30) that does not overlap with the light controlling region (e.g., 30% to 45%, for example) so that it is in a range slightly higher than the average value (e.g., 27.5%) of the visible light transmittance X (e.g., 5%) in the opaque state of the light controlling sheet 10 and the visible light transmittance Y (e.g., 50%) in the transparent state of the light controlling sheet 10.

[0060] In other words, the visible light transmittance X (%) of the light controlling sheet 10 in its opaque state, the visible light transmittance Y (%) of the light controlling sheet 10 in its transparent state, and the visible light transmittance Z (%) of the region of the sealed area (e.g., the sealing member 30) that does not overlap with the light controlling region preferably satisfy 0.5(X+Y)≦Z≦0.8(X+Y), more preferably satisfy 0.55(X+Y)≦Z≦0.78(X+Y), and even more preferably satisfy 0.6(X+Y)≦Z≦0.75(X+Y). According to the inventor's extensive research, changes in the transmittance of the region of the sealed area (e.g., the sealing member 30) that does not overlap with the light controlling region tend to have a greater impact when the light controlling sheet 10 is transparent than when it is opaque (the sealing member 30 is more noticeable). For this reason, it is preferable to set the visible light transmittance Z (%) of the area of ​​the sealed area (e.g., sealing member 30) that does not overlap with the light-adjusting area so that it is in a range slightly higher than the average value 0.5(X+Y) (%) of the visible light transmittance X (%) in the opaque state of the light-adjusting sheet 10 and the visible light transmittance Y (%) in the transparent state of the light-adjusting sheet 10. By satisfying the conditional formula described here, the sealed area (e.g., sealing member 30) can be viewed in a natural manner, regardless of the color tone and light transmittance in the transparent and opaque states of the light-adjusting sheet 10, thereby improving the appearance and design.

[0061] Here, the visible light transmittance Z (%) of the region of the sealed region (e.g., the sealing member 30) that does not overlap with the light control region may be changed depending on which part of the periphery of the light controlling sheet 10 is sealed. For example, as shown in Fig. 6, the visible light transmittance Z (%) of the portion of the sealed region (e.g., the sealing member 30) that is located at the position of the translucent member 20 facing the light control device 1 (light controlling sheet 10) is set to satisfy the conditional expressions of this embodiment, such as the above-mentioned X < Z < Y, 5 < Z < 95, 75 < Z < 91, 85 < Z < 93, 75 < Z < 95, 85 < Z < 95, 5 < Z < 52, or 5 < Z < 60 (more preferably 30 < Z < 45), 0.5(X + Y) < Z < 0.8(X + Y). 4 and 5, the visible light transmittance Z (%) of the portion of the sealing region (e.g., sealing member 30) facing the sash member 40 may be set so as not to satisfy the conditional expression of this embodiment. For example, if the sash member 40 is white, the visible light transmittance may be greater than 95%, exceeding the upper limit of 5≦Z≦95, and if the sash member 40 is black, the visible light transmittance may be less than 5%, exceeding the lower limit of 5≦Z≦95.

[0062] The portion of the light-transmitting member 20 facing the light-adjusting device 1 (light-adjusting sheet 10) is likely to be located in or near the center of the visual field, and visibility is significantly affected by the sealing region (e.g., sealing member 30). Therefore, by optimally setting the visible light transmittance Z (%) of the portion of the sealing region (e.g., sealing member 30) that faces the light-adjusting device 1 (light-adjusting sheet 10) on the light-transmitting member 20 so that the conditional expression of this embodiment is satisfied, the sealing region (e.g., sealing member 30) can be viewed in a natural manner regardless of the color and light transmittance of the light-adjusting sheet 10 in the transparent and opaque states, thereby improving the appearance and design. On the other hand, since the portion of the sealing area (e.g., sealing member 30) facing the sash member 40 forms the boundary between the sash member 40 and the dimming device 1 (dimming sheet 10), it is preferable to set the visible light transmittance Z (%) according to (giving priority to) the color tone and light transmission of the sash member 40, rather than the color tone and light transmission of the dimming sheet 10 in its transparent and opaque states.

[0063] <Numerical Examples & Demonstration Experiments> The present inventors conducted demonstration experiments to demonstrate the advantages of the dimming device 1 and dimming module 1X of the present embodiment. More specifically, the present inventors fabricated Samples 1-4 shown in Table 1 below and confirmed the influence of the visibility of the sealed area.

[0064] Sample 1 is a normal / white dimming type, with a visible light transmittance of 88% when the dimming area is transparent and 78% when the dimming area is opaque. Sample 2 is a reverse / white dimming type, with a visible light transmittance of 90% when the dimming area is transparent and 88% when the dimming area is opaque. Sample 3 is a normal / black dimming type, with a visible light transmittance of 52% when the dimming area is transparent and 8% when the dimming area is opaque. Sample 4 is a normal / black dimming type, with a visible light transmittance of 45% when the dimming area is transparent and 5% when the dimming area is opaque.

[0065] In Sample 1, by setting the visible light transmittance of the sealing region to 78% or more and 88% or less, the sealing region was made visible in a natural manner, thereby improving the appearance and design. In Sample 1, if the visible light transmittance of the sealing region was less than 78% or more than 88%, the sealing region would be visible in an unnatural manner (strange, conspicuous), and the risk of deteriorating the appearance and design could not be completely eliminated.

[0066] In Sample 2, by setting the visible light transmittance of the sealing region to 88% or more and 90% or less, the sealing region was made visible in a natural manner, thereby improving the appearance and design. In Sample 2, if the visible light transmittance of the sealing region was less than 88% or more than 90%, the sealing region would be visible in an unnatural manner (strange, conspicuous), and the risk of deteriorating the appearance and design could not be completely eliminated.

[0067] In Sample 3, by setting the visible light transmittance of the sealing region to 8% or more and 52% or less, the sealing region was made visible in a natural manner, thereby improving the appearance and design. In Sample 3, if the visible light transmittance of the sealing region was less than 8% or more than 52%, the sealing region would be visible in an unnatural manner (strange, conspicuous), and the risk of deteriorating the appearance and design could not be completely eliminated.

[0068] In Sample 4, by setting the visible light transmittance of the sealing region to 5% or more and 45% or less, the sealing region was made visible in a natural manner, thereby improving the appearance and design. In Sample 4, if the visible light transmittance of the sealing region was less than 5% or more than 45%, the sealing region would be visible in an unnatural manner (strange, conspicuous), and the risk of deteriorating the appearance and design could not be completely eliminated.

[0069] The conditional expression 75≦Z≦91 in this embodiment described above is a variation of ±3% around the visible light transmittance of the sealing region (78% or more and 88% or less), which was set as a preferred range for Sample 1. The conditional expression 85≦Z≦93 in this embodiment described above is a variation of ±3% around the visible light transmittance of the sealing region (88% or more and 90% or less), which was set as a preferred range for Sample 2. The conditional expression 5≦Z≦52 (preferably 30≦Z≦45) in this embodiment described above is a sum of the visible light transmittances of the sealing region (8% or more and 52% or less, and 5% or more and 45% or less), which were set as preferred ranges for Samples 3 and 4.

[0070] As a demonstration experiment separate from that shown in Table 1, the inventors prepared another sample of normal / black dimming in which the visible light transmittance of the dimming area was 50% when transparent and the visible light transmittance of the dimming area was 5% when opaque, and confirmed the effect on the visibility of the sealed area when the visible light transmittance of the sealed area was varied to 100%, 45%, 40%, 30%, 20%, 10%, and 5%.

[0071] 7, 8, and 9 are first, second, and third diagrams illustrating the difference in appearance when the visible light transmittance of the sealing region is changed in the transparent and opaque states of the light control region, respectively. Figs. 7A and 7B show the cases where the visible light transmittance of the sealing region is 100% and 5%. Figs. 8A and 8B show the cases where the visible light transmittance of the sealing region is 20% and 10%. Figs. 9A, 9B, and 9C show the cases where the visible light transmittance of the sealing region is 45%, 40%, and 30%.

[0072] Table 2 shows the results of the sensory evaluation of the visibility of the sealed region in the above-mentioned other samples, when the visible light transmittance of the sealed region was changed to 100%, 45%, 40%, 30%, 20%, 10%, and 5%. In the visibility evaluation in Table 2, ◯, △, and × each indicate the following: ◯: The sealed region was visible in a natural manner in both the transparent and opaque states of the dimming region, and the appearance and design were improved. △: Although not as good as ◯, the sealed region was visible in a natural manner to some extent, and the appearance and design were improved, which can be said to be a passing grade. ×: Particularly in one or both of the transparent and opaque states of the dimming region, the sealed region was visible in an unnatural manner (strange, conspicuous), resulting in a decrease in the appearance and design.

[0073] As shown in the visibility evaluation in Table 2 and as can be seen from the observation results in FIG. 7A , when the visible light transmittance of the sealing region is 100% (i.e., the same as when there is no sealing member), the sealing region is visible in an unnatural (strange, conspicuous) manner in both the transparent and opaque states of the dimming region, resulting in a reduction in appearance and design.

[0074] As shown in the visibility evaluation in Table 2 and as can be seen from the observation results in Fig. 7B, when the visible light transmittance of the sealing region is 5%, there is no particular problem when the light control region is in an opaque state, but when the light control region is in a transparent state, the sealing region is viewed in an unnatural (strange, conspicuous) manner, resulting in a reduction in appearance and design. In addition, as can be seen from the observation results in Fig. 8A and Fig. 8B, when the visible light transmittance of the sealing region is 20% or 10%, the sealing region is similarly viewed in an unnatural (strange, conspicuous) manner when the light control region is in a transparent state, resulting in a reduction in appearance and design.

[0075] In contrast, as shown in the visibility evaluation in Table 2 and as can be seen from the observation results in Figures 9A, 9B, and 9C, when the visible light transmittance of the sealing area is 45%, 40%, or 30%, the sealing area is visible in a natural manner in both the transparent and opaque states of the dimming area (it is not too noticeable in either the transparent or opaque state of the dimming area), thereby improving the appearance and design.

[0076] As described above, the light control device of this embodiment is a light control device attached to a light-transmitting member, and has a light control region that switches between a transparent state and an opaque state by switching between an energized state and an unenergized state, and a sealing region that seals at least a portion of the periphery of the light control region, where X (%) is the visible light transmittance of the light control region in the opaque state, Y (%) is the visible light transmittance of the light control region in the transparent state, and Z (%) is the visible light transmittance of the region of the sealing region that does not overlap with the light control region, and the relationship X≦Z≦Y is satisfied. This allows the sealing region to be viewed in a natural manner, regardless of the color tone and light transmittance in the transparent and opaque states of the light control region, thereby improving the appearance and design.

[0077] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications can be made in the implementation stage without departing from the spirit of the invention. Furthermore, the embodiments may be implemented in appropriate combinations, in which case the combined effects can be obtained. Furthermore, the above-described embodiments include various inventions, and various inventions can be extracted by combining selected elements from the disclosed elements. For example, if the problem can be solved and the desired effect can be obtained even if some elements are deleted from all elements shown in the embodiments, the configuration from which these elements are deleted can be extracted as an invention.

[0078] This application is based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2024-072960, filed April 26, 2024, the contents of which are incorporated herein in their entirety.

Claims

1. A light control device attached to a light-transmitting member, comprising: a light control area that switches between a transparent state and an opaque state by switching between an energized state and an unenergized state; and a sealing area that seals at least a portion of the periphery of the light control area, wherein X≦Z≦Y is satisfied, where X (%) is the visible light transmittance of the light control area in the opaque state, Y (%) is the visible light transmittance of the light control area in the transparent state, and Z (%) is the visible light transmittance of the sealing area that does not overlap with the light control area.

2. The light control device according to claim 1, wherein the visible light transmittance Z (%) of the area of ​​the sealed area that does not overlap with the light control area satisfies 5≦Z≦95.

3. The dimming device according to claim 1, characterized in that the sealed area has a sealing member that seals at least a portion of the periphery of the dimming area, and the sealing member is made of a material that has a transmittance of 50% or more for UV light of 380 nm or less.

4. The light control device according to claim 1, wherein the light control area is transparent when energized and opaque when de-energized, and is white in color when opaque; the visible light transmittance X (%) of the light control area in the opaque state satisfies 75≦X≦95, the visible light transmittance Y (%) of the light control area in the transparent state satisfies 85≦Y≦95, and the visible light transmittance Z (%) of the area of ​​the sealed area that does not overlap with the light control area satisfies 75≦Z≦95.

5. The light control device according to claim 1, wherein the light control area is transparent when energized and opaque when de-energized, and is white in color when opaque; the visible light transmittance X (%) of the light control area in the opaque state satisfies 75≦X≦81, the visible light transmittance Y (%) of the light control area in the transparent state satisfies 85≦Y≦91, and the visible light transmittance Z (%) of the area of ​​the sealed area that does not overlap with the light control area satisfies 75≦Z≦91.

6. The light control device according to claim 1, wherein the light control area is opaque when energized and transparent when de-energized, and is white in color when opaque; the visible light transmittance X (%) of the light control area when opaque satisfies 85≦X≦95, the visible light transmittance Y (%) of the light control area when transparent satisfies 87≦Y≦95, and the visible light transmittance Z (%) of the area of ​​the sealed area that does not overlap with the light control area satisfies 85≦Z≦95.

7. The light control device according to claim 1, wherein the light control area is opaque when energized and transparent when de-energized, and is white in color when opaque, the visible light transmittance X (%) of the light control area when opaque satisfies 85≦X≦91, the visible light transmittance Y (%) of the light control area when transparent satisfies 87≦Y≦93, and the visible light transmittance Z (%) of the area of ​​the sealed area that does not overlap with the light control area satisfies 85≦Z≦93.

8. The light control device according to claim 1, characterized in that the light control area is transparent when energized and opaque when de-energized, and is black in color when opaque, the visible light transmittance X (%) of the light control area in the opaque state satisfies 5≦X≦8, the visible light transmittance Y (%) of the light control area in the transparent state satisfies 45≦Y≦52, and the visible light transmittance Z (%) of the area of ​​the sealed area that does not overlap with the light control area satisfies 5≦Z≦52.

9. The light control device according to claim 1, characterized in that the light control area is transparent when energized and opaque when de-energized, and is black in color when opaque, the visible light transmittance X (%) of the light control area in the opaque state satisfies 5≦X≦15, the visible light transmittance Y (%) of the light control area in the transparent state satisfies 40≦Y≦60, and the visible light transmittance Z (%) of the area of ​​the sealed area that does not overlap with the light control area satisfies 5≦Z≦60.

10. The light control device according to claim 8 or 9, characterized in that the visible light transmittance Z (%) of the area of ​​the sealed area that does not overlap with the light control area satisfies 30≦Z≦45.

11. The light control device according to claim 1, wherein the visible light transmittance X (%) of the light control region in an opaque state, the visible light transmittance Y (%) of the light control region in a transparent state, and the visible light transmittance Z (%) of the region of the sealing region that does not overlap with the light control region satisfy 0.5(X+Y)≦Z≦0.8(X+Y).

12. The dimming device according to claim 1, characterized in that the dimming device has a dimming sheet having a dimming layer, a pair of transparent conductive layers located on both sides of the dimming layer, and a pair of transparent base layers located on both sides of the pair of transparent conductive layers, and the dimming region is a region where the dimming function of the dimming sheet is expressed and the visible light transmittance changes, and / or a region of the dimming sheet where the dimming layer is present when viewed in a plane.

13. A light control module comprising: a light-transmitting member; and a light control device attached to the light-transmitting member, wherein the light control device has a light control area that switches between a transparent state and an opaque state by switching between an energized state and an unenergized state; and a sealing area that seals at least a part of the periphery of the light control area, wherein X≦Z≦Y is satisfied, where X (%) is the visible light transmittance of the light control area in the opaque state, Y (%) is the visible light transmittance of the light control area in the transparent state, and Z (%) is the visible light transmittance of a region of the sealing area that does not overlap with the light control area.

14. A sealing member that seals at least a portion of the periphery of a dimming area that switches between a transparent state and an opaque state by switching between an energized state and an unenergized state in a dimming device attached to a light-transmitting member, wherein the visible light transmittance of the dimming area in the opaque state is X (%), the visible light transmittance of the dimming area in the transparent state is Y (%), and the visible light transmittance of the sealing member in an area that does not overlap with the dimming area is Z (%), satisfying X≦Z≦Y.

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