Vehicle with IR radiation source, method for removing water and use of an irradiation device

Abstract

The invention relates to a vehicle (100) comprising at least one vehicle window (1) comprising at least one glass sheet with a viewing region (D). At least one IR radiation source (3) for selectively generating IR radiation (4) in the IR wavelength range of 1.4 µm to 2 µm is arranged in a vehicle interior (8) of the vehicle (100) at a distance from the vehicle window (1). The IR radiation source (3) is oriented in such a way that, during operation, the IR radiation source (3) irradiates exclusively a partial region (T) of the viewing region (D) of the vehicle window (1) with IR radiation (4) in the wavelength range of 1.4 µm to 2 µm, wherein the vehicle window (1) has an inner surface (I) exposed to the vehicle interior (8) and the IR radiation source (3) is arranged at most 30 cm away from the inner surface (I) of the vehicle window (1).

Description

[0001] Vehicle with IR radiation source, method for removing water and use of an irradiation device

[0002] The invention relates to a vehicle with an IR radiation source, a method for removing water and the use of an irradiation device for a vehicle window.

[0003] A challenge in vehicle design is heating the vehicle's windows to prevent icing or fogging, which impairs visibility. Various solutions exist for heating vehicle windows. One method involves blowing heated air onto the window through inlets. This type of heating is collectively known as Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC). Besides high energy consumption, the inlets that transport the hot air and blow it onto the window require considerable space. Furthermore, the outlet nozzles must be positioned in a specific geometric relationship to the window, which significantly restricts design and construction freedom.

[0004] It is also known to make vehicle windows heatable by applying electrically conductive coatings. Such windows are used particularly as heated windshields in motor vehicles and offer the possibility of conveniently clearing the windshield of ice or condensation by heating it. They have transparent, electrically conductive coatings, especially silver coatings. The coatings are electrically contacted so that an electric current can be conducted through them. This heats up the coating, which is the basis of the heating effect.

[0005] One problem with electrically conductive coatings is their often high surface resistance, which, especially with large dimensions of the windscreen to be heated or with long current paths, necessitates a high operating voltage—in any case, higher than the usual vehicle electrical system voltages. Furthermore, heat loss, and thus energy loss, through convection across the typically large windscreen surfaces is also very high.

[0006] A further disadvantage of heated coatings is that, for example, silver layers are not permeable to high-frequency radiation. This impairs, for instance, the reception of mobile phone signals, communication with cloud servers ("Internet of Things"), and similar applications. This can lead to problems, especially in the case of electric vehicles. Some vehicle manufacturers, particularly electric vehicle manufacturers, therefore reject the use of silver-containing coatings.

[0007] Another challenge with electrically conductive coatings, which are often multi-layered, for heating laminated glass is compliance with required standards, for example regarding light transmission and color neutrality.

[0008] Alternatively, the pane itself can have an electric heating function. For example, DE 103 52 464 A1 discloses a laminated pane in which electrically heated wires are embedded between two glass panes. The specific heating power can be adjusted by the ohmic resistance of the wires. Due to design and safety considerations, the number and diameter of the wires must be kept as small as possible. The wires must be visually imperceptible or barely perceptible in daylight and at night under headlights, which leads to significant design limitations.

[0009] All these solutions share the disadvantage that a vehicle windshield must first be heated to remove moisture, i.e., condensation or ice, in order to evaporate the water. This results in lower energy efficiency, as the heating is intended solely for moisture removal, but a large proportion of the heat energy produced is used to warm the windshield itself rather than evaporating the water. This is particularly problematic for electric vehicles, whose range is reduced by low heating efficiency. Furthermore, the evaporation process is lengthy, as the windshield must first reach a certain temperature before the water can evaporate.

[0010] Various types of windscreen heaters are known, for example, from US 2014 / 191049 A1, DE 10 2009 010303 A1, JP 2005 007963 A, WO 2024 / 083807 A1, DE 101 10 142 A1, JP S59 202954 A and KR 100 835 226 B1.

[0011] There is a need for vehicles whose windows can be efficiently and quickly cleaned of moisture without compromising the safety of the vehicle occupants or restricting interior space. The present invention aims to provide such a vehicle and a method for the rapid, energy-efficient, and reliable removal of moisture from such a vehicle. This objective is achieved according to the invention by a vehicle according to claim 1, a method according to claim 13, and the use of an irradiation device according to claim 15. Preferred embodiments are described in the dependent claims.

[0012] According to the invention, the vehicle comprises at least one vehicle window (also called the first vehicle window) with a viewing area.

[0013] The vehicle window can be a monolithic pane, as is often the case with rear or side windows. If the vehicle window is a monolithic pane, it has, in addition to the outer surface, an inner surface facing the vehicle interior. A monolithic pane refers to a single pane of glass, which may, however, be equipped with functional coatings such as an IR-reflective coating and / or a Low-E coating (emissivity-reducing coating). Such coatings are advantageously applied to the inner surface of the vehicle window. A monolithic vehicle window, however, consists of only one pane and no thermoplastic polymer layer. Alternatively, the vehicle window can also be a laminated pane, as is usually the case with windshields.However, the rear window or side window(s) of a vehicle can also be designed as a laminated glass unit. If the vehicle window is a laminated glass unit, it comprises an inner pane and an outer pane, as well as a thermoplastic interlayer located between the inner and outer panes. The outer pane has an outer surface facing away from the thermoplastic interlayer, which is also the outer surface of the vehicle window (though it may have coatings). The outer pane also has an inner surface facing the thermoplastic interlayer. The inner pane has an inner surface facing away from the thermoplastic interlayer, which may be coated or uncoated.The coated or uncoated interior surface of the inner pane is simultaneously the surface of the vehicle window exposed to the vehicle interior. It is understood that the thermoplastic interlayer is arranged across a flat area between the inner and outer panes. In other words, the main surfaces of the thermoplastic interlayer are arranged essentially parallel to the surfaces of the outer and inner panes. The main surface of an element describes that surface of the element with the greatest extent. The vehicle window can be, for example, a windshield, rear window, or a side window of the vehicle. Preferably, the vehicle window is a windshield. The vehicle window can be fixed in the vehicle, so that it is not movable. However, the vehicle window can also be movable, for example, as is common with side windows, it can be cranked up and down.The vehicle window can therefore be moved from an open state to a closed state and vice versa during vehicle use. In the context of the invention, "closed state" means that the vehicle window essentially completely separates the vehicle interior from the external environment. In the case of a side window in a passenger car, this would mean that the side window is rolled up, i.e., the window opening is completely closed by the side window. In the context of the invention, "open state" means that the side window does not completely close the window opening, i.e., the vehicle interior is not completely separated from the external environment. It is understood that the side window can also be "partially open," meaning it is not open to its maximum extent.It is understood that the irradiation of the vehicle window described in accordance with the invention refers to the irradiation of the vehicle window in the closed state, whereby it is not excluded that areas of the vehicle window can also be irradiated when it is partially open.

[0014] The vehicle windshield has a circumferential edge with an edge surface, which preferably includes a top edge and a bottom edge as well as two intermediate side edges. The top edge is the edge that points upwards when installed in the vehicle. The bottom edge is the edge that points downwards when installed in the vehicle. The top edge is often also referred to as the roof edge and the bottom edge as the engine edge. The vehicle windshield can have any suitable geometric shape and / or curvature.

[0015] The pane or panes (outer pane and inner pane) of the vehicle windshield are, according to the invention, made of transparent glass. In other words, the vehicle windshield comprises at least one pane made of glass; the outer pane and / or the inner pane are made of glass, in particular soda-lime glass, which is common for window panes. The panes can, or in principle, the pane can also be made of other types of glass (for example, borosilicate glass, quartz glass, aluminosilicate glass). The thickness of the at least one pane can vary widely. Preferably, panes with a thickness in the range of 0.8 mm to 5 mm, more preferably from 1.4 mm to 2.5 mm, are used, for example, those with the standard thicknesses of 1.6 mm or 2.1 mm. The at least one pane can be tempered, partially tempered, or fully tempered. If at least one of the panes is to have a temper, this can be a thermal or chemical temper.In the context of the invention, "at least one pane" means the inner pane and / or the outer pane if the vehicle window is designed as a composite pane, or the individual pane of the vehicle window if it is designed as a monolithic pane.

[0016] The vehicle windshield can have any three-dimensional shape. Preferably, the at least one pane of the vehicle windshield has no shadowed areas, so that it can be efficiently coated by cathode sputtering. Preferably, the vehicle windshield is flat or slightly or strongly curved in one or more directions in space.

[0017] In the event that the vehicle windscreen is designed as a laminated windscreen, the thermoplastic interlayer is preferably designed as at least one thermoplastic film and is based on ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), polyvinyl butyral (PVB), or polyurethane (PU), or mixtures, copolymers, or derivatives thereof, particularly preferably on polyvinyl butyral (PVB), and additionally contains additives known to those skilled in the art, such as plasticizers. Preferably, the thermoplastic film contains at least one plasticizer.

[0018] The thermoplastic interlayer can be formed by a single film or by more than one film. The thermoplastic interlayer can be formed by one or more thermoplastic films stacked on top of each other, the thickness of which, after lamination of the layer stack, is preferably between 0.25 mm and 1 mm, typically 0.38 mm or 0.76 mm. The thermoplastic interlayer can also be formed by a film that is colored in certain areas and thus opaque. The interlayer can also be formed by more than one film, with the at least two films extending over different areas of the laminated sheet's surface.

[0019] The thermoplastic interlayer can also be a functional thermoplastic film, in particular a film with acoustic damping properties, an IR radiation reflecting film, an IR radiation absorbing film and / or a UV radiation absorbing film.

[0020] If something is "based on" a polymeric material, it consists predominantly, i.e., at least 50%, preferably at least 60%, and particularly at least 70%, of this material. It may therefore also contain other materials such as stabilizers or plasticizers.

[0021] The viewing area of ​​a vehicle window, as defined by the invention, is the transparent area of ​​the vehicle window through which light can pass without a substantial portion of the light being absorbed or reflected. The viewing area thus refers to the area of ​​the vehicle window designed for viewing. If the vehicle window is, for example, a windshield, then the viewing area is the area of ​​the windshield through which the driver can see the road or the surrounding environment. The vehicle window therefore has a viewing area that is transparent. The entire vehicle window can be transparent, so that the viewing area encompasses the entire vehicle window.

[0022] In some embodiments, vehicle windows, particularly windshields, have an opaque masking area in addition to the transparent viewing area. This masking area is, for example, formed as an opaque layer through which no visibility is possible. It is typically located around the perimeter of the windshield and surrounds the viewing area. The primary purpose of the opaque masking area is to protect the adhesive used to bond the windshield to the vehicle body from UV radiation. The masking area is typically formed by a black printed masking layer on the surface of the outer pane facing the intermediate layer.

[0023] For the purposes of this invention, "opaque" means a light transmission (according to ISO 9050:2003) for visible light (380 nm to 780 nm) of less than 30%, preferably less than 20%, particularly preferably less than 5%, and especially less than 0.1%. For the purposes of this invention, "transparent" means a light transmission (according to ISO 9050:2003) for visible light of at least 50%, preferably at least 60%, and particularly preferably at least 70%. With regard to the determination of the light transmittance according to ISO 9050:2003 (see section 3.3 of the standard), the relative spectral distribution of illuminant D65 (see, for example, ISO 11664-2:2007) and / or the relative spectral distribution of illuminant A (see, for example, ISO 11664-2:2007) can be used for the determination. In other words, the described light transmittance ranges apply to determination using light type A and / or light type D65.

[0024] The vehicle further comprises at least one IR radiation source for the selective generation of IR radiation in the IR wavelength range from 1.3 pm to 3.5 pm, in particular with IR radiation in the IR wavelength range from 1.4 pm to 2 pm. The IR radiation source can thus generate IR radiation with a specific wavelength, for example, IR radiation in a very narrow range of 50 nm (wavelength then being, for example, in the range of 1.45 pm to 1.50 pm), wherein the range preferably includes a wavelength at which water exhibits an increased absorption coefficient. The emission spectrum of the IR radiation source can, for example, cover several hundred nm in the specified wavelength range, in particular less than 500 nm, preferably less than 200 nm, more preferably less than 100 nm, and most preferably less than 50 nm.

[0025] The IR radiation source is located inside the vehicle, at a distance from the vehicle window.

[0026] In the context of the invention, "in a vehicle interior" means that the IR radiation source is located inside the vehicle, for example on the interior trim or on the dashboard, and is thus exposed to the vehicle interior. The IR radiation source is thereby protected from external influences such as weather conditions and damage.

[0027] The IR radiation source is aligned in such a way that, during operation, it exclusively irradiates a portion of the visibility area of ​​the vehicle window with IR radiation in the IR wavelength range of 1.3 pm to 3.5 pm, in particular with IR radiation in the IR wavelength range of 1.4 pm to 2 pm.

[0028] Preferably, the radiation source is arranged such that it irradiates only a portion of the vehicle windshield with IR radiation of a selective wavelength, through which at least one vehicle occupant, for example the driver or the front passenger, is looking when seated in the vehicle. The invention is based on the fact that the water molecules of the water deposited on the vehicle windshield—regardless of whether in a liquid or solid state—are set into vibration by IR radiation, and the water molecules consequently heat up. The heating of the water condensed or frozen on the driver's windshield occurs largely selectively, since the windshields themselves typically absorb IR radiation much less strongly, which is why the heating of the vehicle windshield is negligible.IR radiation can therefore be used both to heat water on an inner surface of the vehicle window exposed to the vehicle interior and to heat water on an outer surface of the vehicle window exposed to the environment.

[0029] One resulting advantage is that large-area, electrically heated layers, such as silver coatings, can be omitted as part of the vehicle windshield. This leads to a simplified and more cost-effective manufacturing process. The transmission of high-frequency radiation, for example, for receiving mobile phone signals, communicating with cloud servers ("Internet of Things"), and similar applications, is not affected by the radiant heating system according to the invention, resulting in further advantages. The inventors have also discovered that evaporation using IR radiation can be many times faster and more efficient compared to the HVAC / coating method. By installing the radiation source inside the vehicle interior, the IR source can be protected from negative influences.In particular, the IR radiation source has to meet lower requirements regarding sealing compared to an outdoor installation, and the risk of the IR radiation source being damaged during vehicle use is reduced.

[0030] According to the invention, only a portion of the vehicle windshield's viewing area is cleared of water molecules using infrared radiation. Focusing the infrared radiation on this portion causes primarily the water molecules located within that area to be heated. This enables particularly rapid removal of ice (water in its solid state) or condensation (water droplets). The available energy is concentrated on the portion that is important, for example, for the visibility of the vehicle's occupant(s). Thus, the removal of water from the relevant portions of the viewing area is not only faster, but the energy required for removal is also reduced, which, especially in electric vehicles, improves the achievable range and therefore represents a significant advantage.In a preferred embodiment, the partial area corresponds to the minimum field of vision required when driving the vehicle. In other words, the partial area includes at least the area of ​​the field of vision necessary for driving the vehicle. The partial area can therefore correspond to the area of ​​the vehicle windshield through which a vehicle occupant looks while driving. The minimum unobstructed field of vision required for driving a vehicle can be defined, for example, by legal provisions such as standards. For instance, Regulation No. 125 of the UN Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) – Uniform provisions for the approval of motor vehicles with regard to the driver’s forward field of vision [2018 / 116] – contains provisions that can define the required field of vision.

[0031] If the vehicle window is a windshield, the required field of vision can, for example, correspond to a strip extending vertically across the glass, the width of the steering wheel. This strip can be approximately 30 centimeters wide and is divided into two equal halves by the center of the steering wheel. The driver's field of vision can be limited at the top and bottom, for example, by the area covered by the windshield wipers. The area illuminated with IR radiation can therefore be roughly the size of a DIN A4 sheet of paper projected vertically onto the windshield in front of the driver's face. This area can be 0.2 m². 2 down to 0.01 m 2 , preferably 0.1 m 2 down to 0.02 m 2 , especially preferred 0.08 m 2 up to 0.04 m 2 include.

[0032] If the vehicle window is a side window, at least a portion of the area that allows the driver to see the side mirrors is preferably cleared of water molecules.

[0033] If the vehicle window is a rear window, at least a portion of the area that allows the driver to see through the rear window via the rearview mirror is preferably cleared of water molecules.

[0034] Even if the vehicle window is a side window or a rear window, the specific area to be heated can be defined and dimensioned according to relevant standards or guidelines that specify the required field of vision. Because the energy available for irradiating the vehicle window is focused on the portion of the viewing area that corresponds to the driver's required field of vision, and because the entire viewing area does not need to be heated, a higher amount of energy reaches this specific area. The water deposited on the vehicle window in this area evaporates more quickly, and the area required for driving is cleared of water faster. This process typically takes only a few minutes and can even be completed in less than a minute. The vehicle is thus ready for ferry service very quickly.The direct interaction of IR radiation with water molecules eliminates the need to heat the vehicle's windshield. Simply removing water from the driver's field of vision not only allows for a particularly quick start but is also highly energy-efficient.

[0035] The IR radiation source preferably comprises at least one LED, OLED, laser, and / or laser diode. The IR radiation source particularly preferably comprises a plurality of LEDs, OLEDs, lasers, and / or laser diodes. Preferably, the IR radiation source comprises an LED, which can also be referred to as an "IR radiation-emitting diode." LEDs are characterized by their high efficiency. Additionally or alternatively, the IR radiation source can comprise laser diodes or lasers, which have the advantage of being particularly powerful and efficient. Besides the aforementioned emitters for generating IR radiation, the IR radiation source can also include a housing in which the emitters for generating IR radiation are mounted. Alternatively, the IR radiation source can be an LED, OLED, laser, and / or laser diode.

[0036] In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the IR radiation source comprises or consists of an Er:YAG diode. Other examples include InAs / GaSb, Er3+-doped sesquioxide diodes, or diodes consisting thereof.

[0037] The IR radiation source can be a fiber-bulk hybrid laser. The laser preferably comprises the lasing medium Cr:ZnSe / S. The laser is, for example, dimmable, preferably in a range from 1.9 pm to 3.0 pm, so that the wavelength or a wavelength range of the emitted IR radiation can be selected as required.

[0038] The IR radiation source(s) can be, for example, ribbon-shaped, planar, or spot-shaped. Other geometric shapes are also possible. Several individual IR radiation sources can be arranged side by side with space between them or in a ribbon-like configuration (close together). In other words, if several spot-shaped IR radiation sources, such as LEDs, are arranged next to each other, a multi-part, ribbon-shaped, or planar IR radiation source can be created. This allows the number and intensity of the IR radiation sources to be flexibly adapted to the requirements for heating the vehicle windshield, for example, with regard to the spatial and geometric conditions and the energy required for efficient heating. Furthermore, the radiation angle of the IR radiation sources can be adjusted to the spatial and geometric conditions.

[0039] In an alternative embodiment, which is not claimed, the IR radiation source is configured to emit IR radiation in the IR wavelength range from 2.5 pm to 3.3 pm, particularly preferably from 2.6 pm to 2.9 pm. It is not necessary for the emission band of the IR radiation source to completely cover these ranges. However, the emission band should lie (at least partially) within these ranges. The radiation source is advantageously connected to a power supply. Absorption and excitation of water molecules, and thus the resulting heating and evaporation, are particularly high in this preferred wavelength range. Advantageously, it has been shown that the transmission of glass in the wavelength range from 2.9 pm to 3.1 pm is over 70%, and particularly at approximately 3.0 pm it is approximately 10%.85% is particularly large, so that the energy of the IR radiation can be used efficiently for de-icing and evaporation of water.

[0040] According to the invention, the IR radiation source is designed such that it can emit, or does emit, IR radiation in the IR wavelength range from 1.4 pm to 2 pm, preferably from 1.45 pm to 1.95 pm, and particularly preferably from 1.5 pm to 1.65 pm. In this range, the radiation is particularly energy-intensive due to its short wavelength and is therefore very suitable for evaporating water or melting ice. This wavelength range from 1.4 pm to 2 pm is particularly preferred when the radiation source comprises or consists of an LED, since LEDs for generating IR radiation in wavelength ranges up to 2 pm can be manufactured cost-effectively. Here, too, it is not necessary for the emission band of the IR radiation source to completely cover the aforementioned ranges.

[0041] By selecting a narrow emission band for the IR radiation source, suitable for the selective heating of water molecules, it is avoided that IR radiation with a wavelength unsuitable or poorly suited for exciting water molecules is used to remove them. IR radiation with such an unsuitable wavelength excites the water molecules only insufficiently and is essentially dissipated unused into the environment.

[0042] By selectively emitting IR radiation at a wavelength where water has a high absorption capacity, the energy efficiency of the device is consequently improved, because a large proportion of the energy of the IR radiation is transferred to the water molecules and used to remove condensation or icing.

[0043] Regardless of the wavelength range in which the at least one IR radiation source emits IR radiation, and whether the IR radiation source comprises or consists of an LED, OLED, laser, and / or a laser diode of the aforementioned types, a diverging element is preferably arranged between the IR radiation source and the outer surface of the vehicle windshield. The diverging element is preferably an optical concave lens (also called a diverging lens), a microlens array, or a holographic lens. The diverging element serves to scatter the IR radiation. Parallel incident IR rays are refracted by the diverging element in such a way that the IR rays disperse in space and fall on the entire area to be irradiated with IR radiation.The IR radiation source is therefore preferably oriented in such a way that the IR radiation it emits is scattered by the scattering element, which allows, for example, the IR radiation of a laser to irradiate a larger area of ​​the surface of the vehicle windshield.

[0044] According to the invention, the vehicle windshield has an inner surface exposed to the vehicle interior, and the IR radiation source is arranged at a distance of no more than 30 cm, preferably no more than 20 cm, particularly preferably no more than 10 cm, and especially no more than 5 cm, from the inner surface of the vehicle windshield (with possible lower limits, independent of this, of at least 1 cm, 2 cm, 3 cm, or 4 cm). The distance between the inner surface of the vehicle windshield and the IR radiation source is defined as its linear distance, measured orthogonally to the inner surface of the vehicle windshield. In other words, the specified distance denotes the maximum distance between the inner surface of the vehicle windshield and the IR radiation source, namely orthogonally to the inner surface of the vehicle windshield.Provided the IR radiation source has a certain spatial extent, the point where the IR radiation exits into the ambient air is used as the reference point. If the laminated glass is, for example, a vehicle windshield, the IR radiation sources—that is, at least one IR radiation source and / or at least one other IR radiation source—can be located, for example, in or on the dashboard. At a shorter distance, the distance between the water and the laminated glass is more efficient because less energy is wasted, for example, due to unwanted scattering effects from interaction with air particles. Thus, more energy can be used to heat the water molecules. The area to be irradiated can also be adjusted more precisely. In particular, a wider beam angle for the IR radiation source can be selected at a shorter distance.

[0045] "Exposed to the vehicle interior" within the meaning of the invention means that the surface is directly adjacent to the vehicle interior, so that moisture contained in the air can condense on the inside of the window. The inner surface of the vehicle window can have a functional coating or be uncoated. In other words, the inner surface can be formed by the uncoated surface of the vehicle window or by a coating applied to the surface of the vehicle window.

[0046] Regardless of the specific design of the at least one IR radiation source, the generation of IR radiation by the source typically produces waste heat. This waste heat can be used, in addition to the IR radiation, for de-icing or evaporating ice or condensation on the vehicle windshield, particularly by utilizing convective heat transfer. Preferably, the vehicle includes an air conveying system designed to deliver an airflow heated by the waste heat from the IR radiation source to the vehicle windshield. The IR radiation source is cooled by the airflow, for example, convectively. The air conveying system can, for example, include a fan that delivers a cold airflow which can then flow over a heat sink of the IR radiation source.After the airflow has absorbed the waste heat from the IR radiation source, i.e., it has been heated, the warmed airflow is directed towards the vehicle windshield. At the windshield, convective heat transfer occurs between the airflow and the windshield and / or the water molecules present on the windshield, thus removing them. Similar to an HVAC system, various elements of the air delivery system can be used to direct the cold or heated airflow, such as specific air outlet nozzles, inlets, or baffles. The additional use of convective heat transfer from the IR radiation source to the windshield offers the advantage of cooling the IR radiation source, thereby increasing its reliability. Furthermore, the cooling extends the lifespan of the IR radiation source.Secondly, the energy efficiency of the system is increased because the waste heat from the IR radiation source is used as an additional energy source for defrosting or evaporating the condensation on the vehicle window.

[0047] The heated airflow is preferably directed so that it strikes the exposed inner surface of the vehicle windshield in the portion of the viewing area illuminated by the IR radiation source. The heated airflow can be directed, for example, by the air supply system or by other elements located in the vehicle interior. This allows the area illuminated by the IR radiation source to be cleared of condensation and / or ice even more efficiently and quickly. The heating of the vehicle windshield, caused by convective heat transfer, also gradually clears the surrounding area of ​​condensation and ice, thus expanding the field of vision available to the vehicle occupants beyond the immediate area after only a short time.

[0048] In a preferred embodiment, at least one further or second IR radiation source for the selective generation of IR radiation in the IR wavelength range of 1.4 pm to 2 pm is arranged in the vehicle interior at a distance from the vehicle windshield, and the further IR radiation source is designed such that, during operation, preferably exclusively, it irradiates a further sub-area of ​​the vehicle windshield's viewing area with IR radiation, which is distinct from the sub-area irradiated by the at least one IR radiation source. In other words, in addition to the IR radiation source already described above, at least one further IR radiation source can be provided which irradiates a sub-area of ​​the vehicle windshield's viewing area that is at least partially different from the (first) IR radiation source described above.

[0049] Preferably, at least one additional IR radiation source is arranged at a distance of no more than 30 cm, preferably no more than 20 cm, particularly preferably no more than 10 cm, and especially no more than 5 cm, from the inner surface of the vehicle window (with possible lower limits, independent of this, of at least 1 cm, 2 cm, 3 cm, or 4 cm). The distance between the inner surface of the vehicle window and the additional IR radiation source is defined as its linear distance, measured orthogonally to the inner surface of the vehicle window; see also the preceding explanations regarding the (first) IR radiation source.

[0050] To clarify, let me explain this further: For example, a first IR radiation source can be used to irradiate a first section of the vehicle's windshield within the driver's field of vision. A second IR radiation source can be used to irradiate a second section of the windshield, separate from the first, within the passenger's field of vision. This allows water to be removed from the areas of the windshield relevant to the occupants' visibility with minimal energy consumption. The removal process is particularly fast because only focused areas are irradiated with IR radiation, eliminating the need to heat or irradiate the entire windshield, thus saving energy. The areas irradiated by different IR radiation sources do not necessarily have to be separated; they can also overlap.

[0051] The invention also includes providing several IR radiation sources in the vehicle interior, each of which irradiates sections of different vehicle windows with IR radiation in the aforementioned wavelength ranges.

[0052] In a preferred embodiment, the vehicle window is a windshield, and the IR radiation source and / or the additional IR radiation source is / are located in the area of ​​the vehicle's dashboard. The windshield is crucial for the visibility of the vehicle occupants, so the advantage of rapid defrosting and condensation removal is particularly significant here. Furthermore, the dashboard offers a great deal of design freedom for the engineer, both in the design of the IR radiation source and / or the additional IR radiation source themselves and in their positioning on or within the dashboard. Positioning the IR radiation source and / or the additional IR radiation source in the dashboard area also ensures that vehicle occupants are not exposed to the radiation emitted onto the affected area.The IR radiation emitted in the further sub-area interferes with the other part of the vehicle, thereby reducing the risk of burns. The IR radiation source and / or the further IR radiation source is / are preferably located in the area between the vehicle windshield and the steering wheel of the vehicle. In other words, the IR radiation source and / or the further IR radiation source can be located behind the steering wheel from the driver's perspective. Here, the distance to the windshield, and especially to the driver's field of vision, is shortest, so that the IR radiation strikes the sub-area of ​​the windshield with high intensity. Due to the short distance, IR radiation sources, especially LEDs, with a wider beam angle can be used, which makes it possible for a single IR radiation source or the other part of the vehicle to be effective.A further IR radiation source with relatively low power illuminates a large portion of the field of view with IR radiation. Furthermore, the IR radiation source(s) and / or the further IR radiation source are obscured by the steering wheel from the perspective of the vehicle occupants and are therefore not visible, so that the driver's field of vision is not restricted and there is no visual impairment of the vehicle interior by the IR radiation source(s). Positioning the source(s) behind the steering wheel also minimizes the risk of injury, because vehicle occupants do not normally reach into the area behind the steering wheel.

[0053] Preferably, the IR radiation source and / or the additional IR radiation source can be integrated into the surface of the dashboard. This arrangement of the IR radiation source and / or the additional IR radiation source has the advantage that the view of the vehicle occupants in the lower area of ​​the windshield is not obstructed by the IR radiation source or the additional IR radiation source.

[0054] Alternatively, at least one IR radiation source and / or at least one additional IR radiation source can be installed inside the vehicle and be removable without damage. In this case, the arrangement of the IR radiation source and / or the additional IR radiation source can be chosen practically freely, for example, depending on the geometric constraints determined by the vehicle geometry and the size of the vehicle occupants. Furthermore, the IR radiation source and / or the additional IR radiation source can be easily replaced in the event of a defect. Retrofitting an IR radiation source or an additional IR radiation source into a vehicle that was not previously equipped with one or more is also possible, as will be described later in connection with an irradiation device.In a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the vehicle also comprises a moisture detector, for example an IR sensor, for detecting water on the portion of the inner and / or outer surface of the vehicle windshield that is irradiated with IR radiation, and a control unit. The moisture detector is preferably configured to send a signal to the control unit when water in a liquid or solid state is present on the portion of the inner and / or outer surface of the vehicle windshield.

[0055] In this case, the control unit is configured to electronically activate the IR radiation source, at least upon receiving a signal, causing the IR source to emit IR radiation onto the targeted area of ​​the vehicle's windshield. This offers the advantage that the IR source is only active when water is present on the windshield, thus significantly reducing its energy consumption. The moisture detector is preferably mounted on the windshield or inside the vehicle, particularly on the dashboard, so that it can effectively detect water condensed on the windshield's surface.

[0056] The vehicle can be, for example, a passenger car, a truck, a motor vehicle, a tractor, or a bus. Preferably, the vehicle is a passenger car. The vehicle can be equipped with an internal combustion engine, comprising, for example, a gasoline engine or a diesel engine, an electric drive, comprising a fuel cell and / or a battery, or a hybrid drive. Hybrid and electric drives are particularly suitable because the radiation source is electrically powered. Such drive systems must be energy-efficient, otherwise the vehicle's range will be significantly reduced, thus highlighting the advantages of removing moisture using the vehicle according to the invention.

[0057] Furthermore, the invention extends to a method for removing water from a vehicle window comprising at least one pane of glass using a vehicle according to one of the embodiments described above.

[0058] The procedure includes the following steps:

[0059] Activation of the IR radiation source and selective emission of IR radiation in the IR wavelength range of 1.4 pm to 2 pm using the IR radiation source exclusively on a partial area of ​​a vehicle window to remove water adhering to the vehicle window.

[0060] The focused infrared radiation heats only the water molecules located within that specific area. This allows for particularly rapid removal of ice or condensation from that area because the total energy available for heating the water on the windshield is concentrated and used only for that specific area. Removing water from the relevant parts of the visible area is therefore not only faster, but it also reduces the energy required, which is a significant advantage, especially for electric vehicles, and can increase their driving range.

[0061] In a preferred embodiment of the method according to the invention, the vehicle comprises an air conveying device configured to convey an airflow heated by waste heat from the IR radiation source to the vehicle windshield. The method further comprises the following steps:

[0062] Activate the air conveying system;

[0063] Heating an airflow conveyed by the air conveying device using waste heat from the IR radiation source and

[0064] Directing the airflow to an exposed inner surface of the vehicle windshield irradiated by the IR radiation source.

[0065] The waste heat from the IR radiation source provides an additional heat source for defrosting and removing condensation from the vehicle windshield, energy which would otherwise go unused. Furthermore, the IR radiation source is cooled by the cold airflow, preventing overheating and extending its lifespan. The system's energy efficiency is increased because the waste heat from the IR radiation source is used as an additional energy source for defrosting and evaporating condensation from the vehicle windshield.

[0066] Another aspect of the invention relates to the use of an irradiation device for installation in a vehicle. The irradiation device comprises at least one IR radiation source for the selective generation of IR radiation in the IR wavelength range of 1.4 pm to 2 pm. As explained above, the vehicle windshield has an inner surface exposed to the vehicle interior, and the IR radiation source is positioned at a distance of no more than 30 cm from this inner surface. The emission angle of the IR radiation source is selected such that, when the irradiation device is installed as intended in a vehicle interior at a distance from the vehicle windshield, only a portion of the visible area of ​​the vehicle windshield is irradiated. The irradiation device can be installed in a vehicle interior and removed without damage.

[0067] Such an irradiation device can, for example, be mounted on the surface of the dashboard. Mounting the device in the area between the steering wheel and the windshield is particularly preferred. A variety of mounting solutions are available for the irradiation device. For example, it can be glued or screwed in place, attached to a designated bracket, or secured with a suction cup. As described above, the irradiation device can be installed in the vehicle interior in a removable manner. In particular, the irradiation device can be provided as a retrofit kit that can be installed in the vehicle interior after delivery to the buyer. Ideally, the irradiation device can be installed and removed from the vehicle without tools.In this context, "tool-free" refers to the ability to attach and detach the irradiation device manually, for example, by a vehicle occupant, using only their hands. Tool-free assembly and disassembly can be particularly advantageous in the case of retrofit solutions, for instance, to allow the irradiation device to be used in multiple vehicles. Naturally, an irradiation device can also be installed in a vehicle's interior before delivery, for example, during the manufacturing process by an OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer). In this case, a non-removable mounting of the irradiation device within the vehicle interior may be preferable.

[0068] The IR radiation source of the irradiation device is designed such that, after the device is mounted in the designated area of ​​the dashboard, only a portion of the windshield's visible area is irradiated with IR radiation. For the irradiation device to effectively remove water deposited on the windshield, it is essential that the beam angle of the IR radiation source is correctly dimensioned. Simultaneously, it must be ensured that the IR radiation source is powerful enough and emits sufficient IR radiation onto the targeted area to reliably remove ice or water from it.

[0069] Providing an irradiation device as a retrofit kit for equipping a vehicle with an IR radiation source is often more cost-effective than purchasing a new vehicle with a built-in IR source. This is particularly advantageous for older vehicles that currently lack adequate de-icing and anti-fogging capabilities. Installing a retrofit kit with an IR radiation source in the vehicle interior is advantageous in these cases. Furthermore, the same retrofit kit can be used in a wide variety of vehicles, resulting in low manufacturing costs due to a high degree of standardization in the production of the irradiation device. Additionally, differently equipped irradiation devices with varying functionalities can be provided, allowing users to choose the appropriate device regardless of the specific vehicle model.

[0070] The irradiation device can be powered – particularly when provided as a retrofit kit – by connecting it to standardized vehicle interfaces, which may be located on the dashboard, for example, in the center console area. Preferably, the irradiation device can have a cable with a connector designed to be plugged into a USB port, a cigarette lighter socket or its corresponding power outlet, or a standard electrical socket.

[0071] An irradiation device can be equipped with an air supply system for convective cooling of the IR radiation source and convective heating of the vehicle windshield, as described above in connection with a vehicle. The features and designs of the air supply system of a vehicle described above are applicable analogously to the air supply system of the irradiation device described here. It is particularly noteworthy that the air supply system can be designed to deliver an airflow heated by the waste heat of the IR radiation source to the surroundings of the irradiation device in such a way that, when the irradiation device is installed as intended in a vehicle, the heated airflow strikes the vehicle windshield in the portion of the viewing area irradiated by the IR radiation source.

[0072] In a preferred embodiment, the irradiation device comprises a moisture detector, for example an IR sensor, for detecting water on the portion of the inner and / or outer surface of the vehicle windshield that can be irradiated with IR radiation, and a control unit. The moisture detector is preferably configured to send a signal to the control unit when water, in liquid or solid form, is present on the portion of the inner and / or outer surface of the vehicle windshield. In this case, the control unit is configured to electronically control the IR radiation source of the irradiation device, at least upon receiving the signal, so that the IR radiation source emits IR radiation onto the portion of the vehicle windshield.This achieves the advantages already described above in connection with the moisture detector and the control unit of a vehicle.

[0073] The various embodiments of the invention can be implemented individually or in any combination. In particular, the aforementioned features can be used not only in the specified combinations, but also in other combinations or on their own, unless they are explicitly described as possible only as alternatives to one another without departing from the scope of the present invention.

[0074] Although some aspects have been described in connection with a device, for example, the vehicle or the irradiation device, it is understood that these aspects also constitute a description of the corresponding process, so that a component or assembly of a device is also to be understood as a corresponding process step or as a feature of a process step. Analogously, aspects described in connection with or as a process step also constitute a description of a corresponding component, detail, or feature of a corresponding device. Likewise, features and advantages described in connection with the irradiation device are transferable to a vehicle according to the invention and vice versa. The invention is explained in more detail below with reference to exemplary embodiments, with reference to the accompanying figures.They show, in a simplified, not to-scale representation:

[0075] Figure 1 A vehicle windscreen for use in a vehicle according to the invention,

[0076] Figures 2-4 show a vehicle according to a first embodiment of the invention,

[0077] Figure 5 shows a second embodiment of a vehicle according to the invention,

[0078] Figure 6 shows a third embodiment of a vehicle according to the invention and

[0079] Figure 7 shows an absorption spectrum of water (liquid state).

[0080] Fig. 1 shows a vehicle window 1 in the form of a windshield for a vehicle 100 according to the invention. The vehicle window 1 is shown in a top view, looking from the inside at an inner surface I of the vehicle window 1. However, the following descriptions are also applicable when looking from the outside at an outwardly exposed surface II of the vehicle window 1.

[0081] The vehicle windscreen 1 has an upper edge and a lower edge, as well as two side edges connecting the upper and lower edges (together forming a circumferential edge of the vehicle windscreen 1). The lower edge (also called the engine edge) of the vehicle windscreen 1 is the edge that faces the ground when installed. The upper edge (also called the roof edge) of the vehicle windscreen 1 is the edge that faces the vehicle roof when installed in a vehicle 100. The vehicle windscreen 1 has, for example, a shape and curvature typical for windscreens. Preferably, the vehicle windscreen 1 is designed to be flat.

[0082] The vehicle windshield 1 has a transparent viewing area D. The vehicle windshield 1 can be entirely transparent, so that the viewing area D encompasses the entire windshield 1. However, as in the present case, the vehicle windshield 1 can also have an opaque masking area M through which no sunlight can pass. Such masking areas M are common in vehicle windshields. They are typically formed by an opaque overprint. An enamel printing paste, containing glass frits and a pigment, particularly black pigment, is printed onto the surface, for example, using screen printing or digital printing, and then fired. The masking area M typically comprises a circumferential edge of the outer windshield, which surrounds a central viewing area D like a frame.The masking area M can also include other areas, which are designed, for example, as a kind of cross bracing of the frame-like edge area.

[0083] To simplify the explanation of the following figures, a partial area T of the viewing area D is already visualized in Figure 1. Partial area T lies within the viewing area D and is preferably arranged in the driver's field of vision when the vehicle windshield 1 is mounted in a vehicle 100. As shown in Figure 1, partial area T preferably lies entirely within the viewing area D.

[0084] Figures 2 to 4 show a first embodiment of a vehicle 100, illustrating different stages of water coverage on the vehicle windshield 1 of the vehicle 100, either in a liquid state (condensation) or a solid state (ice). In Figure 2, the vehicle 100 is shown with a clear windshield 1, allowing a view into the vehicle interior 8. In Figure 3, the vehicle windshield 1 is completely covered with water 5, which may, for example, be present as ice on the outer surface II of the vehicle windshield. In Figure 4, a partial area T of the viewing area D is free of water 5.

[0085] The vehicle 100 has a plurality of IR radiation sources 3, of which only a small number are shown for clarity. The IR radiation sources 3 are arranged at a distance from the vehicle windshield 1 in the area of ​​the dashboard 10 of the vehicle 100. In the example shown, the IR radiation sources 3 are arranged approximately 20 cm from the inner surface I of the vehicle windshield 1. The IR radiation source 3, for example designed as an LED, is suitable for emitting IR radiation 4 with a wavelength in a wavelength range from A = 1.4 pm to 2 pm. Preferably, the wavelength spectrum in which the LED emits IR radiation is significantly smaller than the specified wavelength range. The spectrum of the IR radiation source 3 can, for example, cover several hundred nm in the specified wavelength range, in particular less than 200 nm, preferably less than 100 nm, and more preferably less than 50 nm.As will be explained in more detail below, the IR radiation 4 is emitted onto a sub-region T of the transmission area D. The IR radiation source 3 can be, for example, an LED or an Er:YAG diode with a wavelength of approximately 1450 nm or approximately 1900 nm. This wavelength corresponds to the frequency and wavelength range in which water molecules exhibit the highest absorption coefficient for IR radiation 4. At the same time, the transmission of glass in this IR radiation range <3.5 pm is particularly high, with a transmittance of approximately 85%, and only a small portion of the IR radiation 4 is absorbed.

[0086] The IR radiation sources 3 can, for example, be affixed to the dashboard 10 or arranged in a socket on the surface of the dashboard 10. Additionally or alternatively, the IR radiation sources 3 can be integrated into the surface of the dashboard 10.

[0087] The arrows indicate, by way of example and schematically, the direction of radiation of the IR radiation 4. Each of the IR radiation sources 3 has a specific emission angle α at which IR radiation 4 is emitted by the IR radiation source 3. In this configuration, the IR radiation sources 3 are planar and / or arranged so that they can also be interpreted as a single, planar IR radiation source 3, whose emission angle α is defined by the arrangement and the respective emission angle α of the individual IR radiation sources 3, for example, individual LEDs. The emission angles α are dimensioned such that, during operation of the IR radiation source 3, only a partial area T of the viewing area D of the vehicle window 1 is irradiated with IR radiation 4.

[0088] Preferably, the IR radiation sources 3 are arranged in the area between the steering wheel 11 and the vehicle windshield 1, preferably behind the steering wheel 11 from the driver's perspective. This area is typically not easily accessible to vehicle occupants, thus protecting them from burns caused by IR radiation 4. Furthermore, the distance to the vehicle windshield 1 is smallest in this area, and the IR radiation 4 can be effectively directed onto a sub-area T corresponding to the driver's field of vision, which is particularly advantageous. At the same time, the driver's field of vision is not impaired.

[0089] In certain operating conditions of the vehicle 100, for example, high humidity in the vehicle interior 8 or cold temperatures in the external environment of the vehicle 100, moisture 5, in particular water droplets or ice crystals, is deposited on the vehicle window 1. Figure 3 shows such a condition in which the vehicle window 1 is completely covered with moisture 5, so that the vehicle occupants can no longer see through it.

[0090] Moisture 5 deposited on both the inner surface I of the vehicle window 1, for example, condensation with water droplets, and moisture 5 deposited on the outer surface II of the vehicle window 1, for example, ice crystals, can be removed quickly and energy-efficiently using the IR radiation source 3. The vehicle window 1 is almost completely transparent to IR radiation 4, which is why the removal of moisture 5 is possible not only on the inner surface I but also on the outer surface II.

[0091] To remove water deposited on the vehicle windscreen 1, the IR radiation source 3 is activated, as shown in Figure 4. For clarity, only two of the IR radiation sources 3 are shown in Figure 4. The IR radiation source 3 emits IR radiation 4 with a selective wavelength, for example approximately 1450 nm ± 50 nm or approximately 1900 nm ± 50 nm, onto the sub-area T of the viewing area D.

[0092] If the IR radiation 4 encounters water droplets or ice crystals before or after passing through the vehicle window 1, it interacts with the water 5. The IR radiation 4 is absorbed by the water molecules, which are heated by the excitation of the IR radiation 4 and thus evaporate. A particular advantage of the invention is that IR radiation 4 can be selectively used with the wavelength and frequency range in which water molecules exhibit the highest absorption coefficients, thereby achieving a highly selective heating effect. This contributes to achieving the heating effect in a particularly energy-efficient and rapid manner.

[0093] Energy efficiency is an extremely important criterion for future product development. Advantageously, according to the invention, the heating effect does not depend on heating the vehicle window 1 itself, but is achieved selectively by exciting the water molecules through IR radiation 4. The heating effect therefore occurs much faster than with previously used heating devices, and there is also no heat loss due to convection and the large surface area of ​​the vehicle window 1. Thus, the dependence of the effect on the outside temperature is also significantly lower than with previously known heating devices, which first have to heat the vehicle window 1 to ultimately remove condensation and ice.Focusing the IR radiation 4 on only a partial area T of the viewing area D further increases energy efficiency because the entire viewing area D does not need to be irradiated with IR radiation 4 to ensure the requirements of a sufficient field of vision for driving the vehicle 100. Furthermore, the removal of water 5 from the vehicle windshield 1 can be carried out more quickly because the available energy can be used more efficiently.

[0094] As a result, as shown in Figure 4, the sub-area T is cleared of water 5, and the vehicle occupants can see through the sub-area T of the viewing area D. In a preferred embodiment, the sub-area T corresponds to the required field of vision, so that the ferry operation of the vehicle 100 can commence after a short time, namely when the sub-area T is cleared of water 5.

[0095] Figure 5 shows a second embodiment of the invention, which can be used in addition to or as an alternative to the first embodiment. The vehicle 100 has an irradiation device 30, which comprises a plurality of IR radiation sources 3 for the selective emission of IR radiation 4 with a wavelength of 1.4 pm to 2 pm.

[0096] The irradiation device 30 is designed for installation in the area of ​​the dashboard 10. The beam angle α for IR radiation 4 is selected such that, when the irradiation device 30 is installed as intended in the area of ​​the dashboard 10, only a partial area T of the viewing area D of the vehicle windshield 1 is irradiated. The irradiation device 30 makes it possible, in particular, to retrofit vehicles 100 that were not originally equipped with an IR radiation source 3 with one.

[0097] The (first) irradiation device 30 is located in the area between the steering wheel and the vehicle windshield 1, i.e., behind the steering wheel, so that the sub-area T lies within the driver's field of vision. Additionally or alternatively, a further IR radiation source 3 can be provided, in this case a (second) irradiation device 30, which irradiates a further sub-area T1 of the vehicle windshield 1, which is delimited from the first sub-area T. The second sub-area T1 can, for example, be located within the field of vision of a passenger, so that when the respective IR radiation sources 3 of the irradiation devices 30 are activated, both sub-areas T and T1 are simultaneously freed from moisture 5. However, other IR radiation sources 3, for example an IR radiation source 3 integrated into the dashboard 10, can also be used to irradiate the second sub-area T1.

[0098] Figure 6 shows another embodiment of the vehicle 100. To assist in removing the moisture 5 from the vehicle windshield 1, an air conveying device 20 is provided. The air conveying device 20 conveys a cold air stream 21 to the IR radiation source 3. In the illustrated embodiment, the radiation source 3 is part of an irradiation device 30, whereby the specific design of the radiation source 3 is irrelevant for the use of an air conveying device 20 and the radiation source 3 could, for example, alternatively be integrated into the dashboard 10 of the vehicle 100. Likewise, the irradiation device 30 itself can have an air conveying device 20 with the same functionality.

[0099] The cold airflow 21 supplied by the air conveying device 20 is heated by waste heat generated by the IR radiation source 3. The heated airflow 22 is deflected so that it strikes the vehicle windshield 1, in particular the viewing area D of the vehicle windshield 1. Preferably, the heated airflow 22 strikes the vehicle windshield 1 in the partial area T, which is also irradiated by IR radiation 4 emitted by the IR radiation source 3. This supports the removal of moisture 5 by means of IR radiation 4 through convective heat transfer and the associated warming of the water 5 and / or the vehicle windshield 1. Furthermore, the IR radiation source 3 is cooled, thus extending its service life.

[0100] Figure 7 shows an absorption spectrum of water in the liquid state. The diagram shows that water molecules, for example, exhibit a particularly high absorption coefficient at a wavelength of approximately 3 pm.

[0101] The absorption coefficient of water is also increased in the IR wavelength range of approximately A = 1.5 pm and A = 2 pm. Therefore, another preferred embodiment of the IR radiation source 3 emits IR radiation 4 in this wavelength range. In this range, the radiation is particularly energy-intensive due to the short wavelength. Liquid water in the form of condensation can thus be effectively evaporated, and ice can be effectively melted. The wavelength range from 1.4 pm to 2 pm is particularly preferred when the radiation source comprises or consists of an LED, since LEDs for generating IR radiation in wavelength ranges up to 2 pm can be manufactured cost-effectively.

[0102] Reference symbol list

[0103] I Vehicle window

[0104] 3 IR radiation source

[0105] 4 IR radiation

[0106] 5 Water in liquid or frozen state

[0107] 8 Vehicle interior

[0108] 9 external environment

[0109] 10 Dashboard

[0110] II Steering wheel

[0111] 20 Air conveying system

[0112] 21 cold airflow

[0113] 22 heated airflow

[0114] 30 Irradiation device

[0115] 100 vehicles

[0116] D Viewing area of ​​the vehicle window 1

[0117] M Masking area of ​​the vehicle window 1

[0118] T, T1 Sub-area of ​​the viewing area D

[0119] I inner surface of the vehicle window 1

[0120] 11 Outer surface of the vehicle window 1 a Beam angle

Claims

Patent claims 1. Vehicle (100) comprising at least one vehicle window (1) comprising at least one pane of glass with a viewing area (D), at least one IR radiation source (3) for the selective generation of IR radiation (4) in the IR wavelength range from 1.4 pm to 2 pm, wherein the IR radiation source (3) is arranged in a vehicle interior (8) of the vehicle (100) at a distance from the vehicle window (1) and is designed such that, during operation, the IR radiation source (3) exclusively irradiates a partial area (T) of the viewing area (D) of the vehicle window (1) with IR radiation (4) in the wavelength range from 1.4 pm to 2 pm, wherein the vehicle window (1) has an inner surface (I) exposed to the vehicle interior (8) and the IR radiation source (3) is arranged at most 30 cm away from the inner surface (I) of the vehicle window (1).

2. Vehicle (100) according to claim 1, wherein the partial area (T) of the vehicle window (1) corresponds to the field of vision required at least when driving the vehicle (100).

3. Vehicle (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the IR radiation source (3) comprises at least one LED and / or a laser.

4. Vehicle (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the IR radiation source (3) is arranged at most 20 cm, preferably at most 10 cm, in particular at most 5 cm, away from the inner surface (I) of the vehicle window (1).

5. Vehicle (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the vehicle (100) comprises an air conveying device (20) which is designed to convey an airflow (22) heated by waste heat from the IR radiation source (3) to the vehicle window (1).

6. Vehicle (100) according to claim 5, wherein the heated airflow (22) in the partial area (T) of the viewing area (D) irradiated by the IR radiation source (3) strikes the inner exposed surface (I) of the vehicle window (1).

7. Vehicle (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein at least one further IR radiation source (3) for the selective generation of IR radiation (4) in the IR wavelength range of 1.4 pm to 2 pm is arranged in the vehicle interior (8) of the vehicle (100) at a distance from the vehicle window (1) and is designed such that the at least one further IR radiation source (3) in operation irradiates a further partial area (T1) of the viewing area (D) of the vehicle window (1) with IR radiation (4), which is delimited from the partial area (T) irradiated by the at least one IR radiation source (3).

8. Vehicle (100) according to claim 7, wherein the at least one further IR radiation source (3) is arranged at most 30 cm away from the inner surface (I) of the vehicle window (1).

9. Vehicle (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the vehicle window (I) is a windshield of the vehicle, and wherein the IR radiation source (3) and / or the further IR radiation source (3) is arranged in the area of ​​a dashboard (10) of the vehicle (100).

10. Vehicle (100) according to claim 9, wherein the IR radiation source (3) and / or the further IR radiation source (3) is located in the area between the vehicle windscreen (1) and a steering wheel (II) of the vehicle (100) is arranged.

11. Vehicle (100) according to claim 9 or 10, wherein the IR radiation source (3) and / or the further IR radiation source (3) is integrated into the surface of the dashboard (10).

12. Vehicle (100) according to one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the IR radiation source (3) and / or the further IR radiation source (3) can be installed in the vehicle interior (8) of the vehicle (100) and can be removed without damage.

13. Method for removing water in liquid or frozen state from a vehicle window (1) comprising at least one pane of glass using a vehicle (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, comprising the method steps: Activating the IR radiation source (3) and Selective emission of IR radiation (4) in the IR wavelength range of 1.4 pm to 2 pm by means of the IR radiation source (3) exclusively on a partial area (T) of the vehicle window (1) for the removal of water adhering to the vehicle window (1) (5).

14. Method according to claim 13, wherein the vehicle (100) comprises an air conveying device (20) which is configured to convey an airflow (22) heated by waste heat from the IR radiation source (3) to the vehicle window (1) and the method further comprises: Activating the air conveying system (20); Heating a cold air stream (21) conveyed by the air conveying device (20) using waste heat from the IR radiation source (3) and Conveying the heated airflow (22) to an exposed inner surface (I) of the vehicle window (1) irradiated by the IR radiation source (3).

15. Use of an irradiation device (30) for irradiating a vehicle window (1) comprising at least one glass pane of a vehicle (100) with a viewing area (D), wherein the irradiation device (30) is attachable in a vehicle interior (8) and removable without damage and comprises at least one IR radiation source (3) for selectively generating IR radiation (4) in the IR wavelength range from 1.4 pm to 2 pm, the vehicle window (1) has an inner surface (I) exposed to a vehicle interior (8) of the vehicle (100) and the IR radiation source (3) is arranged at most 30 cm from the inner surface (I) of the vehicle window (1), and a beam angle (a) of the IR radiation source (3) for IR radiation (4) is selected such thatthat when the irradiation device (30) is installed as intended in the vehicle interior (8) at a distance from the vehicle window (1), only a partial area (T) of the viewing area (D) of the vehicle window (1) is irradiated with IR radiation (4).

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