Lighting control member and method for manufacturing lighting control member

Abstract

A lighting control member (1) comprises: a laminate (5) that includes, in the stated order in a first direction (D1), a first laminate (10) including a first joining layer (12), a lighting control cell (30), and a second laminate (20) including a second joining layer (22); and a wiring board (50) attached to the lighting control cell (30). The lighting control cell (30) includes a main part (30m) and a protruding part (30t) protruding from the main part (30m) in a direction orthogonal to the first direction (D1). When observed from the first direction (D1), the first joining layer (12) and the second joining layer (22) do not overlap a portion of the lighting control cell (30) constituted by the protruding part (30t) of an outer periphery (300).

Description

Light-adjusting component and method for manufacturing the same

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a light control member and a method for manufacturing the light control member.

[0002] As disclosed in WO2021095650A1, a light-controlling component is known that includes a laminate including a light-controlling cell and a wiring board attached to the light-controlling cell. The light-controlling cell includes a liquid crystal layer and first and second conductive layers sandwiching the liquid crystal layer. The amount of light transmitted through the light-controlling cell is adjusted according to a voltage applied to the liquid crystal layer. The voltage applied to the liquid crystal layer is adjusted according to a potential difference between the first and second conductive layers. Power for generating a potential difference between the first and second conductive layers is supplied from the wiring board. The amount of light transmitted through the light-controlling component is adjusted by adjusting the amount of light transmitted through the light-controlling cell.

[0003] The laminate includes a first cover and a second cover. The laminate includes, in a first direction, the first cover, a dimming cell, and a second cover, in this order. The first cover is bonded to the dimming cell via a first bonding layer. The second cover is bonded to the dimming cell via a second bonding layer. The first bonding layer is formed from a first resin compound and disposed between the dimming cell and the first cover. The second bonding layer is formed from a second resin compound and disposed between the dimming cell and the second cover.

[0004] The dimming cell is electrically connected to the wiring substrate through the first conductive layer and the second conductive layer. When the dimming component is fabricated, a first resin compound or a second resin compound flows between the wiring substrate and at least one of the first conductive layer and the second conductive layer. When the first resin compound flows between the first conductive layer and the wiring substrate, a first bonding layer is formed between the first conductive layer and the wiring substrate. When the second resin compound flows between the second conductive layer and the wiring substrate, a second bonding layer is formed between the second conductive layer and the wiring substrate. When the first bonding layer is formed between the first conductive layer and the wiring substrate, or when the second bonding layer is formed between the second conductive layer and the wiring substrate, the electrical connection between the dimming cell and the wiring substrate becomes unstable.

[0005] The present disclosure aims to stably electrically connect a light-control cell and a wiring board.

[0006] A dimming component according to one embodiment of the present disclosure comprises: a laminate including, in a first direction, a first cover, a first bonding layer, a dimming cell, a second bonding layer, and a second cover, in this order; and a wiring board attached to the dimming cell, wherein the dimming cell includes a main portion and a protruding portion protruding from the main portion in a direction perpendicular to the first direction, the wiring board being electrically connected to at least one of the first conductive layer and the second conductive layer at the protruding portion, and when observed from the first direction, the first bonding layer and the second bonding layer do not overlap a portion of the outer periphery of the dimming cell formed by the protruding portion.

[0007] According to the present invention, the light-controlling cell and the wiring board can be electrically connected stably.

[0008] FIG. 1 is a diagram for explaining one embodiment, and is a plan view of a light-adjusting member. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the light-adjusting member of FIG. 1 taken along line II-II. FIG. 3 is a plan view of a light-adjusting cell included in the light-adjusting member of FIG. 1. FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of a modified light-adjusting member. FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the light-adjusting member of FIG. 4 taken along line V-V. FIG. 6 is a plan view of another modified light-adjusting member. FIG. 7 is a perspective view of yet another modified light-adjusting member.

[0009] An embodiment of the present disclosure relates to the following [1] to

[10] .

[0010] [1] A light-controlling component comprising: a laminate including, in a first direction, a first cover, a first bonding layer, a dimming cell, a second bonding layer, and a second cover, in this order; and a wiring board attached to the dimming cell, wherein the dimming cell includes a first sheet including a first conductive layer, a second sheet including a second conductive layer, and a liquid crystal layer located between the first sheet and the second sheet, the dimming cell including a main portion and a protruding portion protruding from the main portion in a direction perpendicular to the first direction, the wiring board being electrically connected to at least one of the first conductive layer and the second conductive layer at the protruding portion, and wherein, when observed from the first direction, the first bonding layer and the second bonding layer do not overlap a portion of the outer periphery of the dimming cell defined by the protruding portion.

[0011] [2] The light-controlling element of [1], wherein the light-controlling cell includes a sealing material located between the first sheet and the second sheet in the first direction, the protruding portion protrudes outward from the sealing material in a direction perpendicular to the first direction, and when observed from the first direction, the outer periphery of the first bonding layer and the outer periphery of the second bonding layer are located inside the outer periphery of the sealing material.

[0012] [3] The light-controlling element of [1] or [2], wherein when observed from the first direction, the light-controlling cell has a region where the first sheet and the second sheet overlap each other at the protruding portion.

[0013] [4] The light-adjusting component of any one of [1] to [3], wherein the protrusion includes a first protrusion constituted by the first sheet protruding from the main portion, and a second protrusion constituted by the second sheet protruding from the main portion at a position different from the first protrusion, and the wiring board includes a first wiring board electrically connected to the first conductive layer at the first protrusion, and a second wiring board electrically connected to the second conductive layer at the second protrusion.

[0014] [5] Any of the dimming components of [1] to [4], including a protective member applied to at least one of the side end surfaces of a first laminate formed by the first cover and the first bonding layer and the side end surface of a second laminate formed by the second cover and the second bonding layer.

[0015] [6] The light-controlling element according to [5], wherein the protective member is applied to a side end surface of the main portion of the light-controlling cell.

[0016] [7] A method for manufacturing a light control component according to any one of [1] to [6], comprising: a first step of preparing a light control cell having a first surface and a second surface opposite to the first surface; a second step of attaching the wiring board to the light control cell; a third step of bonding the light control cell and the first cover via a first resin compound that forms the first bonding layer; and a fourth step of bonding the light control cell and the second cover via a second resin compound that forms the second bonding layer, wherein in the third step, the first resin compound is disposed in a position that does not overlap with the protruding portion in the first direction, and in the fourth step, the second resin compound is disposed in a position that does not overlap with the protruding portion in the first direction.

[0017] [8] The method for manufacturing a light-controlling member according to [7], wherein the first resin compound contains a thermosetting resin and is heated by a heater in the third step; the second resin compound contains a thermosetting resin and is heated by a heater in the fourth step; and the heating temperature of the heater in the third step and the fourth step is 80°C or higher and 150°C or lower.

[0018] [9] A method for manufacturing a light control component according to any one of [1] to [6], comprising the steps of: preparing a light control cell having a first surface and a second surface opposite to the first surface; attaching the wiring board to the light control cell; and bonding the light control cell and the first cover together via a first resin compound that forms the first bonding layer, and bonding the light control cell and the second cover together via a second resin compound that forms the second bonding layer, wherein the first resin compound is positioned so as not to overlap the protruding portion in the first direction, and the second resin compound is positioned so as not to overlap the protruding portion in the first direction.

[0019]

[10] The method for manufacturing a light control member according to [9], wherein the first resin compound contains a thermoplastic resin, and the second resin compound contains a thermoplastic resin.

[0020] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. In the drawings, the scale and aspect ratios are appropriately exaggerated from the actual size for the convenience of illustration and ease of understanding.

[0021] Terms such as "parallel," "orthogonal," and "identical," which indicate shapes and geometric conditions, and values ​​such as dimensions and angles, are not limited to their strict meanings, but are interpreted to include a range within which similar functions can be expected.

[0022] Directions common to the drawings are indicated by arrows with the same symbol in each drawing. In each direction, the tip of the arrow is the first side. In each direction, the side opposite the first side, i.e., the base of the arrow, is the second side. An arrow pointing from the back to the front of the paper in a direction perpendicular to the paper surface is indicated by a symbol with a dot in a circle, as shown in FIG. 1, for example. An arrow pointing from the front to the back of the paper in a direction perpendicular to the paper surface is indicated by a symbol with an X in a circle, as shown in FIG. 2, for example.

[0023] 1 to 3 are diagrams illustrating an embodiment. FIG. 1 is a plan view of a light-adjusting component 1 according to an embodiment. The light-adjusting component 1 is a component that can adjust the amount of light transmitted through the light-adjusting component 1. The light-adjusting component 1 may be applied to a moving body. The moving body is a movable device or equipment. Examples of moving bodies include automobiles, trains, and airplanes. The light-adjusting component 1 may be applied as a window in the moving body. The light-adjusting component 1 applied to the moving body is capable of adjusting the amount of light incident on the interior of the moving body. The light-adjusting component 1 may be applied to a building. The light-adjusting component 1 may be applied as a window in the building. The light-adjusting component 1 applied to the building is capable of adjusting the amount of light incident on the interior of the building.

[0024] The light control component 1 may be flat. The light control component 1 may have a three-dimensional shape. The surface of the light control component 1 having a three-dimensional shape may have a curved shape. Note that the light control component 1 "having a three-dimensional shape" means that the light control component 1 includes portions curved around each of a plurality of axes that are not parallel to one another.

[0025] The light control component 1 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 includes a laminate 5 and a wiring board 50 attached to the laminate 5 .

[0026] The laminate 5 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 includes multiple components stacked in a first direction D1. That is, the illustrated first direction D1 is the stacking direction DL (first stacking direction DL) of the laminate 5. Each component of the laminate 5 extends in a direction perpendicular to the first direction D1. The laminate 5 includes a first surface 5a and a second surface 5b facing the first direction D1. The illustrated laminate 5 includes, in this order from the first surface 5a to the second surface 5b, a first laminate 10, a dimming cell 30, and a second laminate 20. The wiring substrate 50 is attached to the dimming cell 30 in the laminate 5.

[0027] 1 to 3 is a direction perpendicular to the first direction D1, and the illustrated third direction D3 is a direction perpendicular to both the first direction D1 and the second direction D2.

[0028] 1 and 2 , the dimming component 1 may include multiple wiring substrates 50 attached to the dimming cell 30. The illustrated dimming component 1 includes a first wiring substrate 51 and a second wiring substrate 52 as the wiring substrates 50. The first wiring substrate 51 is disposed on a first protrusion 30ta (described later) of the dimming cell 30. The second wiring substrate 52 is disposed on a second protrusion 30tb (described later) of the dimming cell 30.

[0029] The first stack 10 shown in Fig. 2 has a first surface 10a and a second surface 10b facing the first direction D1. The illustrated first stack 10 includes a first cover 11 and a first bonding layer 12, in this order, from the first surface 10a toward the second surface 10b. The first surface 10a is formed by the first cover 11. The second surface 10b is formed by the first bonding layer 12. The illustrated first stack 10 contacts the dimming cell 30 from the second surface 10b. In other words, the first stack 10 contacts the dimming cell 30 from the first bonding layer 12.

[0030] The first laminate 10 includes side end surfaces facing a direction perpendicular to the first direction D1. In Fig. 2, ends 10ra and 10rb in the second direction D2 are shown as side end surfaces of the first laminate 10. The illustrated ends 10ra and 10rb extend in the first direction D1 along the third direction D3. The end 10ra is located closer to the first side in the second direction D2 than the end 10rb.

[0031] The second stack 20 shown in Fig. 2 has a first surface 20a and a second surface 20b facing the first direction D1. The illustrated second stack 20 includes, from the first surface 20a toward the second surface 20b, a second cover 21 and a second bonding layer 22, in this order. The first surface 20a is formed by the second cover 21. The second surface 20b is formed by the second bonding layer 22. The illustrated second stack 20 contacts the dimming cell 30 from the second surface 20b. In other words, the second stack 20 contacts the dimming cell 30 from the second bonding layer 22.

[0032] The second stack 20 has side end surfaces facing a direction perpendicular to the first direction D1. In Fig. 2, ends 20ra and 20rb in the second direction D2 are shown as side end surfaces of the second stack 20. The illustrated ends 20ra and 20rb extend in the first direction D1 along the third direction D3. The end 20ra is located closer to the first side in the second direction D2 than the end 20rb.

[0033] 1 shows the outer periphery 200 of the second laminate 20 in the light control component 1 observed from the first side in the first direction D1. The illustrated outer periphery 200 includes a side extending in the second direction D2 and a side extending in the third direction D3. The illustrated outer periphery 200 has a rectangular shape with a longitudinal direction in the second direction D2 and a width direction in the third direction D3. The outer periphery 200 may be formed by the second cover 21 or the second bonding layer 22. The outer periphery 200 is not limited to a rectangular shape and may have various shapes such as a trapezoid, a diamond, or a circle.

[0034] In addition, in the light-adjusting component 1 shown in FIG. 1 , the outer periphery 100 of the first laminate 10 overlaps the outer periphery 200 of the second laminate 20 when observed from the first side in the first direction D1. The outer periphery 100 of the first laminate 10 has the same shape as the outer periphery 200 of the second laminate 20. That is, the outer periphery 100 includes a side extending in the second direction D2 and a side extending in the third direction D3. The illustrated outer periphery 100 has a rectangular shape with a longitudinal direction in the second direction D2 and a width direction in the third direction D3. The outer periphery 100 may be formed by the first cover 11 or the first bonding layer 12. Like the outer periphery 200, the outer periphery 100 is not limited to a rectangular shape and may have various shapes such as a trapezoid, a diamond, or a circle.

[0035] The first cover 11 shown in FIG. 2 covers the dimming cell 30 from the second side in the first direction D1. The second cover 21 shown in FIG. 2 covers the dimming cell 30 from the first side in the first direction D1. The illustrated first cover 11 and second cover 21 are both made of transparent plate material. The first cover 11 and the second cover 21 may have the same configuration. The first cover 11 and the second cover 21 may have different configurations. The first cover 11 and the second cover 21 may include glass. The first cover 11 and the second cover 21 may include resin such as polycarbonate or acrylic resin.

[0036] The term "transparent" for a certain component of the light control component 1 means that the visible light transmittance of the component is 40% or more. In the light control component 1, the visible light transmittance of a transparent component may be 70% or more, 80% or more, or 90% or more.

[0037] A spectrophotometer (Shimadzu Corporation's "UV-3600i Plus") conforming to JIS K0115:2004 is used to measure visible light transmittance. Visible light transmittance is specified as the average value of total light transmittance at each wavelength when measured in 1 nm increments within a wavelength range of 380 nm to 780 nm. Total light transmittance is expressed as a percentage. When no particular transmission direction is specified, the angle of incidence when measuring visible light transmittance is taken to be 0°. The angle of incidence is the angle between the normal to the incident surface and the traveling direction of incident light, and is a value less than 90°.

[0038] A D65 light source is used to measure total luminous transmittance. Prior to measuring total luminous transmittance, the light source is turned on for 15 minutes. When measuring total luminous transmittance, the angle of incidence of light emitted from the D65 light source on the object to be measured is 0°. The test environment for measuring total luminous transmittance is a temperature of 23°C ± 2°C and a relative humidity of 50% ± 5%. The object to be measured for total luminous transmittance is placed in the test environment for 16 hours before starting the test. Other measurement conditions for measuring total luminous transmittance are in accordance with JIS K7361-1:1997.

[0039] The first cover 11 and the second cover 21 may have a rectangular shape when viewed from the first direction D1. When viewed from the first direction D1, the illustrated first cover 11 and the second cover 21 have a longitudinal direction parallel to the second direction D2. When viewed from the first direction D1, the first cover 11 and the second cover 21 have a width direction parallel to the third direction D3.

[0040] The thickness of the first cover 11 and the second cover 21 may be 1.0 mm or more, 2.0 mm or more, 3.0 mm or more, or 3.5 mm or more. The thickness of the first cover 11 and the second cover 21 may be 10 mm or less, 8.0 mm or less, or 5.0 mm or less. The illustrated thickness of the first cover 11 is the length in the first direction D1. The illustrated thickness of the second cover 21 is the length in the first direction D1.

[0041] The first cover 11 and the second cover 21 may be made of the same material and configured identically, or may be different from each other in at least one of the material and the configuration.

[0042] 2 is located between the first cover 11 and the dimming cell 30 in the first direction D1. The first bonding layer 12 bonds the components of the first stack 10 other than the first bonding layer 12 to the dimming cell 30. In the illustrated dimming component 1, the first cover 11 and the dimming cell 30 are bonded to each other by the first bonding layer 12.

[0043] 2 is located between the second cover 21 and the dimming cell 30 in the first direction D1. The second bonding layer 22 bonds the components of the second stack 20 other than the second bonding layer 22 to the dimming cell 30. In the illustrated dimming component 1, the second cover 21 and the dimming cell 30 are bonded to each other by the second bonding layer 22.

[0044] The first bonding layer 12 is formed from a first resin compound. The second bonding layer 22 is formed from a second resin compound. The first resin compound and the second resin compound may have the same configuration as each other. The first resin compound and the second resin compound may have different configurations as each other. The first bonding layer 12 and the second bonding layer 22 may have the same configuration as each other. The first bonding layer 12 and the second bonding layer 22 may have different configurations as each other.

[0045] The first bonding layer 12 and the second bonding layer 22 may include an optical clear resin (OCR) or an optical clear adhesive (OCA). Both the OCR and the OCA are optically transparent resins. The first bonding layer 12 and the second bonding layer 22 may be transparent.

[0046] The first bonding layer 12 and the second bonding layer 22 may contain a thermoplastic resin. The thermoplastic resin contained in the first bonding layer 12 and the second bonding layer 22 may be ethylene vinyl acetate copolymer (EVA) or polyvinyl butyral resin (PVB). The first resin compound and the second resin compound may contain a thermoplastic resin. When the first resin compound contains a thermoplastic resin, the first bonding layer 12 may be formed by cooling, drying, or pressurizing the first resin compound. When the second resin compound contains a thermoplastic resin, the second bonding layer 12 may be formed by cooling, drying, or pressurizing the second resin compound.

[0047] The first bonding layer 12 and the second bonding layer 22 may contain a cured resin. A cured resin refers to a cured curable resin compound. The first bonding layer 12 containing a cured resin may be formed from a first resin compound containing a curable resin compound before curing. The second bonding layer 22 containing a cured resin may be formed from a second resin compound containing a curable resin compound before curing. The curable resin compound before curing may be in a liquid state. When the first bonding layer 12 is formed, the liquid curable resin compound may be cured while being disposed between the dimming cell 30 and the first cover 11. When the second bonding layer 22 is formed, the liquid curable resin compound may be cured while being disposed between the dimming cell 30 and the second cover 21. The liquid curable resin compound may be applied to the dimming cell 30. The liquid curable resin compound may be applied to the first cover 11. The liquid curable resin compound may be applied to the second cover 21.

[0048] In the first bonding layer 12 and the second bonding layer 22 shown in FIGS. 1 and 3 , the cured resin may include a cured ionizing radiation curable resin compound. The ionizing radiation curable resin compound includes an ionizing radiation curable resin that is cured by irradiation with ionizing radiation. The ionizing radiation curable resin includes an ionizing radiation curable functional group. Examples of the ionizing radiation curable functional group include functional groups having an ethylenic double bond, such as a (meth)acryloyl group, a vinyl group, and an allyl group. Examples of the ionizing radiation curable functional group include an epoxy group and / or an oxetanyl group. The ionizing radiation curable resin may include an ethylenically unsaturated bond group.

[0049] Ionizing radiation refers to electromagnetic waves or charged particle beams that have an energy quantum capable of polymerizing or crosslinking molecules. The ionizing radiation may be the aforementioned ultraviolet (UV) rays or electron beams (EB). The ionizing radiation may be electromagnetic waves such as X-rays, gamma rays, or ultraviolet rays, or may be charged particle beams such as alpha rays or ion beams.

[0050] The ionizing radiation curable resin compound may include an ultraviolet curable resin compound. The ultraviolet curable resin compound includes, as a curable resin, an ultraviolet curable resin that is cured by irradiation with ultraviolet rays. The ultraviolet curable resin compound may include a photopolymerization initiator that initiates curing of the ultraviolet curable resin.

[0051] The ionizing radiation curable resin compound may include an electron beam curable resin compound. The electron beam curable resin compound includes, as a curable resin, an electron beam curable resin that is cured by irradiation with an electron beam.

[0052] In the first bonding layer 12 and the second bonding layer 22, the cured resin may include a cured thermosetting resin compound. The thermosetting resin compound includes a thermosetting resin. A thermosetting resin is typically a resin that hardens when heated. When a thermosetting resin hardens when heated, the thermosetting resin may be pressurized. The thermosetting resin compound may include a curing agent that promotes the hardening of the thermosetting resin. The thermosetting resin may harden at room temperature by reaction with the hardening agent. Examples of thermosetting resins include phenolic resins, urea resins, diallyl phthalate resins, melamine resins, guanamine resins, unsaturated polyester resins, polyurethane resins, epoxy resins, aminoalkyd resins, melamine-urea co-condensation resins, and silicone resins. The thermosetting resin compound may include one or more of these thermosetting resins.

[0053] The cured resin may be a cured two-component mixed resin. The OCR and OCA may be an ultraviolet curable resin compound or a thermosetting resin compound.

[0054] A lower limit may be set for the thickness of the first bonding layer 12 from the viewpoint of stably bonding the first stacked body 10 and the dimming cell 30. A lower limit may be set for the thickness of the second bonding layer 22 from the viewpoint of stably bonding the second stacked body 20 and the dimming cell 30. The thickness of the first bonding layer 12 and the thickness of the second bonding layer 22 may be 0.15 mm or more, or 0.30 mm or more.

[0055] From the viewpoint of reducing the thickness of the light control component 1, an upper limit may be set for the thickness of the first bonding layer 12 and the thickness of the second bonding layer 22. The thickness of the first bonding layer 12 and the thickness of the second bonding layer 22 may be 1.0 mm or less.

[0056] The first bonding layer 12 and the second bonding layer 22 may be made of the same material and configured in the same manner, or may be different from each other in at least one of the material and the configuration.

[0057] The first bonding layer 12 includes side end surfaces facing a direction perpendicular to the first direction D1. In FIG. 2 , ends 12ra and 12rb in the second direction D2 are shown as side end surfaces of the first bonding layer 12. The illustrated ends 12ra and 12rb extend in the first direction D1 along the third direction D3. The end 12ra is located closer to the first side in the second direction D2 than the end 12rb.

[0058] The second bonding layer 22 includes side end surfaces facing a direction perpendicular to the first direction D1. In FIG. 2 , ends 22ra and 22rb in the second direction D2 are shown as side end surfaces of the second bonding layer 22. The illustrated ends 22ra and 22rb extend in the first direction D1 along the third direction D3. The end 22ra is located closer to the first side in the second direction D2 than the end 22rb.

[0059] In the light control component 1 shown in FIG. 1 , when observed from the first side in the first direction D1, the outer periphery 120 of the first bonding layer 12 overlaps the outer periphery 100 of the first stack 10. In the illustrated light control component 1, when observed from the first side in the first direction D1, the outer periphery 220 of the second bonding layer 22 overlaps the outer periphery 200 of the second stack 20. The outer periphery 120 of the first bonding layer 12 and the outer periphery 220 of the second bonding layer 22 have the same shape as the outer periphery 100 of the first stack 10 and the outer periphery 200 of the second stack 20. That is, the outer periphery 120 of the first bonding layer 12 includes a side extending in the second direction D2 and a side extending in the third direction D3. The outer periphery 220 of the second bonding layer 22 includes a side extending in the second direction D2 and a side extending in the third direction D3. The illustrated outer periphery 120 of the first bonding layer 12 has a rectangular shape with a longitudinal direction in the second direction D2 and a width direction in the third direction D3. The outer periphery 220 of the second bonding layer 22 has a rectangular shape with a longitudinal direction in the second direction D2 and a width direction in the third direction D3.

[0060] 1 to 3, the dimming cell 30 has a dimming function that adjusts the amount of transmitted light. The illustrated dimming cell 30 is a sheet having a first surface 30a and a second surface 30b opposite the first surface 30a. Fig. 3 shows a plan view of the dimming cell 30 as viewed from the first surface 30a in a first direction D1.

[0061] 3, the outer periphery 300 of the dimming cell 30 has a polygonal shape when viewed from the first direction D1. In particular, the illustrated outer periphery 300 has eleven corners P11, P12, P13, P14, P15, P16, P17, P18, P19, P20, P21, and P22. The illustrated outer periphery 300 is defined by the following multiple lines:・Line connecting corners P11 and P12 ・Line connecting corners P12 and P13 ・Line connecting corners P13 and P14 ・Line connecting corners P14 and P15 ・Line connecting corners P15 and P16 ・Line connecting corners P16 and P17 ・Line connecting corners P17 and P18 ・Line connecting corners P18 and P19 ・Line connecting corners P19 and P20 ・Line connecting corners P20 and P21 ・Line connecting corners P21 and P22 ・Line connecting corners P22 and P11

[0062] The dimming cell 30 shown in Fig. 3 includes a main portion 30m and a protruding portion 30t protruding from the main portion 30m in a direction perpendicular to the first direction D1. In the illustrated dimming cell 30, the protruding portion 30t protrudes from the main portion 30m in the second direction D2. The protruding portion 30t is adjacent to the main portion 30m in the second direction D2. The illustrated dimming cell 30 includes a portion of the main portion 30m that has a dimming function. The illustrated dimming cell 30 does not include a portion of the protruding portion 30t that has a dimming function.

[0063] The main portion 30m of the dimming cell 30 shown in FIG. 3 appears to have a rectangular shape with vertices P12, P13, P18, and P19. The illustrated main portion 30m has two long sides extending in the second direction D2 and two short sides extending in the third direction D3. In the illustrated main portion 30m, one long side extends between corners P12 and P13, and the other long side extends between corners P18 and P19. In the illustrated main portion 30m, one short side extends between corners P13 and P18, and the other short side extends between corners P19 and P12. In the illustrated dimming cell 30, the protrusion 30t protrudes in the second direction D2 from the short sides of the main portion 30m.

[0064] As shown in FIGS. 1 to 3 , the dimming cell 30 may include multiple protrusions 30t. The illustrated dimming cell 30 includes two protrusions 30t: a first protrusion 30ta and a second protrusion 30tb. The second protrusion 30tb protrudes from the main portion 30m at a position different from that of the first protrusion 30ta. The first protrusion 30ta protrudes from the main portion 30m toward a second side in the second direction D2. The second protrusion 30tb protrudes from the main portion 30m toward a first side in the second direction D2. The first protrusion 30ta and the second protrusion 30tb protrude from the main portion 30m in directions opposite to each other in the second direction D2.

[0065] 3 is observed to have a rectangular shape with vertices P14, P15, P16, and P17. The illustrated second protrusion 30tb is observed to have a rectangular shape with vertices P11, P20, P21, and P22.

[0066] 3 has a periphery 300 including a first portion 301 and a second portion 302. In the illustrated dimming cell 30, the first portion 301 is formed by a main portion 30m. The second portion 302 is formed by a protruding portion 30t.

[0067] 3, the first portion 301 of the outer periphery 300 is formed by the following lines: a line connecting corners P11 and P12, a line connecting corners P12 and P13, a line connecting corners P13 and P14, a line connecting corners P17 and P18, a line connecting corners P18 and P19, and a line connecting corners P19 and P20.

[0068] Of the multiple lines constituting the first portion 301 of the outer periphery 300, the line connecting corners P11 and P12, the line connecting corners P12 and P13, and the line connecting corners P13 and P14 are all interconnected. In addition, the line connecting corners P17 and P18, the line connecting corners P18 and P19, and the line connecting corners P19 and P20 are all interconnected.

[0069] 3, the second portion 302 of the outer periphery 300 is formed by the following lines: a line connecting corners P14 and P15, a line connecting corners P15 and P16, a line connecting corners P16 and P17, a line connecting corners P20 and P21, a line connecting corners P21 and P22, and a line connecting corners P22 and P11.

[0070] Of the multiple lines constituting the second portion 302 of the outer periphery 300, the line connecting corners P14 and P15, the line connecting corners P15 and P16, and the line connecting corners P16 and P17 are all interconnected. In addition, the line connecting corners P20 and P21, the line connecting corners P21 and P22, and the line connecting corners P22 and P11 are all interconnected.

[0071] The dimming cell 30 shown in FIG. 2 has a layered structure. The dimming cell 30 includes a first sheet 31, a liquid crystal layer 33, and a second sheet 32, in this order from the first surface 30a to the second surface 30b. The liquid crystal layer 33 is disposed between the first sheet 31 and the second sheet 32 ​​in the first direction D1. The first surface 30a of the illustrated dimming cell 30 is formed by the first sheet 31. The second surface 30b of the dimming cell 30 is formed by the second sheet 32. In the illustrated dimming cell 30, the first sheet 31, the liquid crystal layer 33, and the second sheet 32 ​​are stacked in the first direction D1. The first direction D1 corresponds to the stacking direction DM (second stacking direction DM) of the dimming cell 30.

[0072] The dimming cell 30 shown in Figures 2 and 3 includes a circumferential sealant 34 located between the first sheet 31 and the second sheet 32. The sealant 34 prevents the liquid crystal layer 33 from leaking out of the dimming cell 30. The illustrated dimming cell 30 includes a first sealed area 30sa, a second sealed area 30sb, and an outside sealed area 30sc. The first sealed area 30sa is an area surrounded by the sealant 34. The second sealed area 30sb is an area where the sealant 34 is located when observed from the first direction D1. The outside sealed area 30sc is an area located outside the sealant 34 in a direction non-parallel to the first direction D1.

[0073] When a component of the light control component 1 is “located outward” from another component of the light control component 1 in a direction perpendicular to the first direction D1, the component is located farther from the center of gravity of the light control component 1 than the other component in both directions perpendicular to the first direction D1. When a component of the light control component 1 “includes a portion located outward” from another component of the light control component 1 in a direction perpendicular to the first direction D1, the component includes a portion that is located farther from the center of gravity of the light control component 1 than the other component in one direction perpendicular to the first direction D1.

[0074] In the dimming cell 30 shown in Fig. 3, the first sealing area 30sa and the second sealing area 30sb are located in the main portion 30m of the dimming cell 30. In other words, the main portion 30m includes the first sealing area 30sa and the second sealing area 30sb. The non-sealed area 30sc is located in the first protruding portion 30ta or the second protruding portion 30tb. The liquid crystal layer 33 is disposed in the first sealing area 30sa. The illustrated liquid crystal layer 33 is surrounded by the sealing material 34 in a direction perpendicular to the first direction D1.

[0075] The first sheet 31 and the second sheet 32 ​​may have the same configuration as each other. One of two sheets having the same configuration may be used as the first sheet 31, and the other sheet may be used as the second sheet 32. The first sheet 31 and the second sheet 32 ​​may have different configurations from each other.

[0076] In the dimming cell 30 shown in FIG. 3 , a first sheet 31 and a second sheet 32 ​​are observed. The illustrated first sheet 31 includes a first portion 31a and a second portion 31b adjacent to each other in the second direction D2. When observed from the first direction D1, each of the first portion 31a and the second portion 31b shown in FIG. 3 appears to have a rectangular shape. The first portion 31a and the second portion 31b each include a side that extends linearly in the second direction D2. The first portion 31a and the second portion 31b each include a side that extends linearly in the third direction D3. The length of the first portion 31a in the second direction D2 is longer than the length of the second portion 31b in the second direction D2. The length of the first portion 31a in the third direction D3 is longer than the length of the second portion 31b in the third direction D3. When the dimming cell 30 is observed from the second side in the first direction D1, the area of ​​the first portion 31a is larger than the area of ​​the second portion 31b.

[0077] 3, the first portion 31a of the first sheet 31 constitutes the main portion 30m of the dimming cell 30. The second portion 31b of the first sheet 31 constitutes the first protrusion 30ta of the dimming cell 30.

[0078] 3 constitutes a part of the outer periphery 300 of the light-controlling cell 30. When the light-controlling cell 30 is observed from the first direction D1, the first sheet 31 constitutes a part of the outer periphery 300 of the light-controlling cell 30. More specifically, the illustrated first sheet 31 constitutes the following lines among the multiple lines included in the outer periphery 300 of the light-controlling cell 30: a line connecting corners P11 and P12, a line connecting corners P12 and P13, a line connecting corners P13 and P14, a line connecting corners P14 and P15, a line connecting corners P15 and P16, a line connecting corners P16 and P17, a line connecting corners P17 and P18, a line connecting corners P18 and P19, and a line connecting corners P19 and P20

[0079] In the dimming cell 30 shown in FIG. 3 , the second sheet 32, like the first sheet 31, has a first portion 32a and a second portion 32b adjacent to the first portion 32a. The first portion 32a and the second portion 32b each include a side that extends linearly in the second direction D2. The first portion 32a and the second portion 32b each include a side that extends linearly in the third direction D3. The length of the first portion 32a in the second direction D2 is longer than the length of the second portion 32b in the second direction D2. The length of the first portion 32a in the third direction D3 is longer than the length of the second portion 32b in the third direction D3.

[0080] In the dimming cell 30 shown in Fig. 3, the first portion 32a of the second sheet 32 ​​overlaps the first portion 31a of the first sheet 31. The second portion 32b of the second sheet 32 ​​does not overlap the first sheet 31. In Fig. 3, the second portion 32b of the second sheet 32 ​​that does not overlap the first sheet 31 can be seen.

[0081] The first portion 32a of the second sheet 32 ​​is observable when the dimming cell 30 is observed from the first side in the first direction D1, which is the opposite of that shown in Figure 3. The first portion 32a of the second sheet 32, like the first portion 31a of the first sheet 31, constitutes the main portion 30m of the dimming cell 30. In the second sheet 32, the periphery 300 of the main portion 30m of the dimming cell 30 is formed by the sides of the first portion 32a.

[0082] In the dimming cell 30 shown in Fig. 3, the second portion 32b of the second sheet 32 ​​constitutes the second protruding portion 30tb of the dimming cell 30. In other words, the second sheet 32 ​​protrudes in the second direction D2 at the second protruding portion 30tb. In Fig. 3, the outer periphery 300 of the second protruding portion 30tb of the dimming cell 30 is formed by the side of the second portion 31b.

[0083] 2 includes a first base material layer 311 and a first conductive layer 312 superimposed on the first base material layer 311. The first base material layer 311 and the first conductive layer 312 are superimposed in a first direction D1. In the illustrated first sheet 31, the first direction D1 is the stacking direction of the first sheet 31.

[0084] The first sheet 31 may include an alignment film (not shown) for aligning liquid crystal molecules depending on the configuration of the liquid crystal layer 33. The first sheet 31 may be in contact with the liquid crystal layer 33 at the alignment film.

[0085] The first substrate layer 311 supports the layers of the first sheet 31 other than the first substrate layer 311. In the dimming cell 30 shown in FIG. 3 , the first substrate layer 311 is a sheet made of a transparent resin. The resin contained in the first substrate layer 311 may include one or more of the following: an acetyl cellulose-based resin such as triacetyl cellulose (TAC); a polyester-based resin such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET) or polyethylene naphthalate (PEN); a polyolefin-based resin such as polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polystyrene, polymethylpentene, or EVA; a vinyl-based resin such as polyvinyl chloride or polyvinylidene chloride; an acrylic resin; a polyurethane-based resin; polysulfone (PSF); polyethersulfone (PES); polycarbonate (PC); polyetherketone (PEK); (meth)acrylonitrile; a cycloolefin polymer (COP); and a cycloolefin copolymer. The first substrate layer 311 may have a thickness of 30 μm or more and 250 μm or less.

[0086] The first conductive layer 312 is conductive. In the dimming cell 30 shown in FIG. 3, the first conductive layer 312 is a transparent thin film that is conductive. The first conductive layer 312 may be a transparent thin film of metal. The first conductive layer 312 is made of tin oxide (SnO ２ The first conductive layer 312 may be a tin oxide-based thin film such as antimony-doped tin oxide (ATO), fluorine-doped tin oxide (FTO), etc. The first conductive layer 312 may be an indium oxide-based thin film such as indium oxide, indium tin oxide (ITO), or indium zinc oxide (IZO). The first conductive layer 312 may be a zinc oxide-based thin film such as zinc oxide (ZnO), aluminum-doped zinc oxide (AZO), or gallium-doped zinc oxide (GZO). The first conductive layer 312 may be a transparent conductive film made of indium tin oxide. The first conductive layer 312 may be a copper mesh. The first conductive layer 312 may be carbon nanotubes. The first conductive layer 312 may be silver nanowires.

[0087] 2 and 3 includes a second base layer 321 and a second conductive layer 322 superimposed on the second base layer 321. The second base layer 321 and the second conductive layer 322 are superimposed in the first direction D1.

[0088] The second sheet 32 ​​may include an alignment film (not shown) for aligning liquid crystal molecules depending on the configuration of the liquid crystal layer 33. The second sheet 32 ​​may be in contact with the liquid crystal layer 33 at the alignment film.

[0089] The second base material layer 321 supports the layers of the second sheet 32 ​​other than the second base material layer 321. The second base material layer 321 may have the same configuration as the above-described first base material layer 311. The second base material layer 321 may have a different configuration from the above-described first base material layer 311.

[0090] The second conductive layer 322 is conductive. The second conductive layer 322 may have the same configuration as the above-described first conductive layer 312. The second conductive layer 322 may have a different configuration from the above-described first conductive layer 312.

[0091] In the dimming cell 30 shown in Figures 2 and 3, the liquid crystal layer 33 contains a plurality of liquid crystal molecules. The visible light transmittance of the first sealing area 30sa can be changed depending on the orientation of the liquid crystal molecules. In the illustrated dimming cell 30, when a potential difference is generated between the first conductive layer 312 and the second conductive layer 322, an electric field is applied to the liquid crystal layer 33. The electric field changes the orientation of the liquid crystal molecules. The orientation of the liquid crystal molecules can be changed by changing the electric field applied to the liquid crystal layer 33. The orientation of the liquid crystal molecules can be changed by changing the potential difference between the first conductive layer 312 and the second conductive layer 322.

[0092] The circumferential sealing material 34 shown in FIGS. 1 and 3 includes a first portion 341, a second portion 342, a third portion 343, and a fourth portion 344. The first portion 341 and the second portion 342 extend in the third direction D3. The first portion 341 and the second portion 342 are spaced apart from each other in the second direction D2. The first portion 341 and the second portion 342 are connected to the third portion 343 or the fourth portion 344 at both ends in the third direction D3. The third portion 343 and the fourth portion 344 extend in the second direction D2. The third portion 343 and the fourth portion 344 are spaced apart from each other in the third direction D3. The third portion 343 and the fourth portion 344 are connected to the first portion 341 or the second portion 342 at both ends in the second direction D2. The circumferential sealing material 34 is formed by the first portion 341, the second portion 342, the third portion 343, and the fourth portion 344. In the dimming cell 30 shown in FIG. 2, the first portion 341 and the second portion 342 of the sealing material 34 can be observed.

[0093] The sealing material 34 shown in Figures 1 and 3 has an outer periphery 34a and an inner periphery 34b. The outer periphery 34a includes a portion that overlaps with the outer periphery 300 of the dimming cell 30 in the first direction D1. The illustrated outer periphery 34a includes a portion that overlaps with the outer periphery 300 of the main portion 30m of the dimming cell 30 in the first direction D1. The inner periphery 34b of the sealing material 34 contacts the liquid crystal layer 33 in a direction perpendicular to the first direction D1. Figure 2 shows the outer periphery 34a and inner periphery 34b of a first portion 341 of the sealing material 34. Figure 2 shows the outer periphery 34a and inner periphery 34b of a second portion 342 of the sealing material 34.

[0094] The material of the sealant 34 may include a thermosetting resin, an ultraviolet curing resin, or a thermal ultraviolet curing resin. The thermal ultraviolet curing resin is a resin that hardens by a combination of heat and ultraviolet irradiation. Specifically, the material of the sealant 34 may be an acrylic resin, an epoxy resin, or an epoxy-acrylic resin.

[0095] 1 to 3 is located in the main portion 30m of the dimming cell 30. In the illustrated dimming cell 30, the protrusion 30t protrudes outward beyond the sealant 34 in the direction perpendicular to the first direction D1. In other words, the protrusion 30t protruding beyond the sealant 34 is farther from the center of the dimming cell 30 in the direction perpendicular to the first direction D1 than the sealant 34.

[0096] 1 and 3 , the first protrusion 30ta protrudes outward in the second direction D2 from the first portion 341 of the sealing material 34. The first protrusion 30ta includes a portion located outward in the second direction D2 from the first portion 341 of the sealing material 34. In the illustrated example, the second protrusion 30tb protrudes outward in the second direction D2 from the second portion 342 of the sealing material 34. The second protrusion 30tb includes a portion located outward in the second direction D2 from the second portion 342 of the sealing material 34.

[0097] 1 and 2 , the wiring board 50 is attached to the stack 5 at one end. The wiring board 50 is attached to the dimming cell 30 at one end. The illustrated wiring board 50 is attached to the dimming cell 30 at the protruding portion 30t. The wiring board 50 may be electrically connected to an external control device (not shown) at the other end.

[0098] The wiring substrate 50 includes conductive conductors. The conductors may be made of a metal such as copper. In the wiring substrate 50, the conductors may be covered with an insulating resin such as polyimide.

[0099] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 , the wiring board 50 may include an electrode 55 at an end electrically connected to the first conductive layer 312 or the second conductive layer 322. In the light-adjusting component 1 shown in FIG. 1 , the first wiring board 51 and the second wiring board 52 each include an electrode 55. The electrode 55 is conductive. The illustrated electrode 55 is electrically connected to the above-mentioned conductor. The electrode 55 includes a portion that is not covered by the above-mentioned resin. The conductive portion of the wiring board 50 is exposed at the electrode 55. The electrode 55 may be made of a metal such as copper.

[0100] 1 and 2 is electrically connected to the first conductive layer 312 of the first sheet 31 at the electrode 55. In the first wiring board 51, the electrode 55 is arranged to overlap the first protrusion 30ta of the dimming cell 30 in the first direction D1. In the illustrated second wiring board 52, the electrode 55 is electrically connected to the second conductive layer 322. In the second wiring board 52, the electrode 55 is arranged to overlap the second protrusion 30tb of the dimming cell 30 in the first direction D1.

[0101] As shown in FIG. 2 , the first conductive layer 312 and the electrode 55 may be electrically connected to each other via a conductive bonding layer 40. The conductive bonding layer 40 is a bonding layer having electrical conductivity. A sheet available under the name of anisotropic conducting film (ACF) may be used as the conductive bonding layer 40. The first conductive layer 312 and the electrode 55 may be bonded to each other via the conductive bonding layer 40. As shown in FIG. 2 , the second conductive layer 322 and the electrode 55 may be electrically connected to each other via the conductive bonding layer 40. The second conductive layer 322 and the electrode 55 may be bonded to each other via the conductive bonding layer 40.

[0102] 3 , the conductive bonding layer 40 is conductive in the first direction D1. When the above-described anisotropic conductive film is used as the conductive bonding layer 40, the conductive bonding layer 40 may be insulating in a direction non-parallel to the first direction D1. In other words, the conductive bonding layer 40 may be anisotropic in terms of conductivity.

[0103] When the dimming component 1 having the above configuration is observed from the first direction D1, at least one of the first bonding layer 12 and the second bonding layer 22 does not overlap the second portion 302 of the outer periphery 300 of the dimming cell 30. When the dimming component 1 is observed from the first side in the first direction D1, as shown in Fig. 1 , the second bonding layer 22 does not overlap the second portion 302 of the outer periphery 300 of the dimming cell 30. In other words, the illustrated second bonding layer 22 does not overlap the portion of the outer periphery 300 of the dimming cell 30 formed by the protruding portion 30t.

[0104] Although not shown, when the dimming component 1 is observed from the second side in the first direction D1, the first bonding layer 12 does not overlap the second portion 302 of the outer periphery 300 of the dimming cell 30. In other words, the first bonding layer 12 does not overlap the portion of the outer periphery 300 of the dimming cell 30 that is formed by the protruding portion 30t.

[0105] When the light-adjusting component 1 is observed from the first direction D1, at least one of the first bonding layer 12 and the second bonding layer 22 does not have to overlap the first portion 301 of the outer periphery 300 of the light-adjusting cell 30. In other words, at least one of the first bonding layer 12 and the second bonding layer 22 does not have to overlap the portion of the outer periphery 300 of the light-adjusting cell 30 formed by the main portion 30m. As shown in FIG. 1 , when the light-adjusting component 1 is observed from a first side in the first direction D1, the second bonding layer 22 does not have to overlap the first portion 301 of the outer periphery 300 of the light-adjusting cell 30. When the light-adjusting component 1 is observed from a second side in the first direction D1, the first bonding layer 12 does not have to overlap the first portion 301 of the outer periphery 300 of the light-adjusting cell 30.

[0106] When the light control component 1 is observed from the first side in the first direction D1, the second portion 31b of the first sheet 31 is observed as the first protrusion 30ta, as shown in Fig. 1. In the illustrated light control component 1, the second bonding layer 22 does not include a portion that overlaps with the first protrusion 30ta in the first direction D1. In the illustrated light control component 1, the second laminate 20 including the second bonding layer 22 does not include a portion that overlaps with the first protrusion 30ta in the first direction D1.

[0107] Although not shown, when the light control component 1 is observed from the second side in the first direction D1, the second portion 31b of the first sheet 31 is observed as the first protrusion 30ta. Similar to the second bonding layer 22, the first bonding layer 12 does not include a portion that overlaps with the first protrusion 30ta in the first direction D1. In the light control component 1, the first laminate 10 including the first bonding layer 12 does not include a portion that overlaps with the first protrusion 30ta in the first direction D1.

[0108] When the light control component 1 is observed from the first side in the first direction D1, the second portion 32b of the second sheet 32 ​​is observed as the second protrusion 30tb, as shown in Fig. 1. In the illustrated light control component 1, the second bonding layer 22 does not include a portion that overlaps with the second protrusion 30tb in the first direction D1. In the illustrated light control component 1, the second laminate 20 including the second bonding layer 22 does not include a portion that overlaps with the second protrusion 30tb in the first direction D1.

[0109] Although not shown, when the light control component 1 is observed from the second side in the first direction D1, the second portion 32b of the second sheet 32 ​​is observed as the second protrusion 30tb. Similar to the second bonding layer 22, the first bonding layer 12 does not include a portion that overlaps with the second protrusion 30tb in the first direction D1. In the light control component 1, the first laminate 10 including the first bonding layer 12 does not include a portion that overlaps with the second protrusion 30tb in the first direction D1.

[0110] In the light control component 1 shown in FIG. 1 , the outer periphery 120 of the first bonding layer 12 is located more inward than the outer periphery 34a of the sealing material 34 in the direction perpendicular to the first direction D1. In other words, the outer periphery 120 of the first bonding layer 12 is located closer to the center of gravity of the light control component 1 than the outer periphery 34a of the sealing material 34 in the direction perpendicular to the first direction D1. Furthermore, the outer periphery 120 of the first bonding layer 12 is located more outward than the inner periphery 34b of the sealing material 34 in the direction perpendicular to the first direction D1. Therefore, in the light control component 1 shown in the figure, the outer periphery 120 of the first bonding layer 12 is located between the outer periphery 34a and the inner periphery 34b in the direction perpendicular to the first direction D1. The outer periphery 120 of the first bonding layer 12 shown in the figure is located more inward than the outer periphery 34a of the sealing material 34 over the entire area in the direction perpendicular to the first direction D1.

[0111] When a component of the photochromic component 1 is “located more inward” than another component of the photochromic component 1 in a direction perpendicular to the first direction D1, the component is located closer to the center of gravity of the photochromic component 1 than the other component in all directions perpendicular to the first direction D1. When a component of the photochromic component 1 “includes a portion located more inward” than another component of the photochromic component 1 in a direction perpendicular to the first direction D1, the component includes a portion located closer to the center of gravity of the photochromic component 1 than the other component in one direction perpendicular to the first direction D1.

[0112] In the light control component 1 shown in FIG. 2 , the side end surface of the first bonding layer 12 is located more inward in the second direction D2 than the outer periphery 34a of the sealing material 34. That is, the side end surface of the first bonding layer 12 is located closer to the center line of the light control component 1 in the second direction D2 than the outer periphery 34a of the sealing material 34. The end 12ra of the illustrated first bonding layer 12 is located on a first side in the second direction D2 than the outer periphery 34a of the first portion 341 of the sealing material 34. In the illustrated light control component 1, the end 12rb of the first bonding layer 12 is located on a second side in the second direction D2 than the outer periphery 34a of the second portion 342 of the sealing material 34. In the illustrated light control component 1, the end 12ra of the first bonding layer 12 is located between the outer periphery 34a and inner periphery 34b of the first portion 341 of the sealing material 34 in the second direction D2. In the illustrated light control component 1, the end 12rb of the first bonding layer 12 is located between the outer periphery 34a and the inner periphery 34b of the first portion 341 of the sealing material 34 in the second direction D2.

[0113] Unlike the illustrated example, the outer periphery 120 of the first bonding layer 12 may be located more inward than the inner periphery 34b of the sealing material 34 in the direction perpendicular to the first direction D1. That is, the outer periphery 120 of the first bonding layer 12 may be located closer to the center of gravity of the light control component 1 than the inner periphery 34b of the sealing material 34 in the direction perpendicular to the first direction D1. The side end surface of the first bonding layer 12 may be located more inward than the inner periphery 34b of the sealing material 34 in the direction perpendicular to the first direction D1. The side end surface of the first bonding layer 12 may be located closer to the center of the light control component 1 in the direction perpendicular to the first direction D1 than the inner periphery 34b of the sealing material 34. In a cross section of the light control component 1 cut at the same position as in FIG. 2 , the position of the end 12ra of the first bonding layer 12 may be located on the first side in the second direction D2 than the inner periphery 34b of the first portion 341 of the sealing material 34. In a cross section of the dimming component 1 cut at the same position as in Figure 2, the position of the end 12rb of the first bonding layer 12 may be located on the second side in the second direction D2 relative to the inner circumference 34b of the second part 342 of the sealing material 34.

[0114] 1 , the outer periphery 220 of the second bonding layer 22 is located more inward than the outer periphery 34a of the sealing material 34 in the direction perpendicular to the first direction D1. In other words, the outer periphery 220 of the second bonding layer 22 is located closer to the center of gravity of the light control component 1 than the outer periphery 34a of the sealing material 34 in the direction perpendicular to the first direction D1. In the illustrated light control component 1, the outer periphery 220 of the second bonding layer 22 is located between the outer periphery 34a and the inner periphery 34b in the direction perpendicular to the first direction D1.

[0115] In the light control component 1 shown in FIG. 2 , the side end surface of the second bonding layer 22 is located more inward in the second direction D2 than the outer periphery 34a of the sealing material 34. That is, the side end surface of the second bonding layer 22 is located closer to the center line of the light control component 1 in the second direction D2 than the outer periphery 34a of the sealing material 34. In the light control component 1 shown in the figure, the end 22ra of the second bonding layer 22 is located on a first side in the second direction D2 than the outer periphery 34a of the first portion 341 of the sealing material 34. In the light control component 1 shown in the figure, the end 22ra of the second bonding layer 22 is located between the outer periphery 34a and the inner periphery 34b of the first portion 341 of the sealing material 34 in the second direction D2. In the light control component 1 shown in the figure, the end 22rb of the second bonding layer 22 is located on a second side in the second direction D2 than the outer periphery 34a of the second portion 342 of the sealing material 34. In the illustrated light adjusting component 1, the end 22rb of the second bonding layer 22 is located between the outer periphery 34a and the inner periphery 34b of the first portion 341 of the sealing material 34 in the second direction D2.

[0116] Unlike the illustrated example, the outer periphery 220 of the second bonding layer 22 may be located more inward than the inner periphery 34b of the sealing material 34. In a direction perpendicular to the first direction D1, the side end surface of the second bonding layer 22 may be located more inward than the inner periphery 34b of the sealing material 34. The side end surface of the second bonding layer 22 may be located closer to the center of the light control component 1 in a direction perpendicular to the first direction D1 than the inner periphery 34b of the sealing material 34. In a cross section of the light control component 1 cut at the same position as in FIG. 2 , the end 22ra of the second bonding layer 22 may be located on a first side in the second direction D2 relative to the inner periphery 34b of the first portion 341 of the sealing material 34. In a cross section of the light control component 1 cut at the same position as in FIG. 2 , the end 22rb of the second bonding layer 22 may be located on a second side in the second direction D2 relative to the inner periphery 34b of the second portion 342 of the sealing material 34.

[0117] The operation of the illustrated light-controlling component 1 will be described below. Specifically, the light-controlling function of the illustrated light-controlling cell 30 will be described by taking the case where the liquid crystal layer 33 contains a guest-host liquid crystal composition as an example.

[0118] The guest-host liquid crystal composition contains liquid crystal molecules and a dichroic dye. The dichroic dye is a coloring material with light-blocking properties. The dichroic dye has a longitudinal direction. The dichroic dye has an alignment direction. The alignment direction of the dichroic dye changes together with the alignment direction of the liquid crystal molecules when a voltage is applied to the liquid crystal layer 33. The alignment direction of the dichroic dye may be the same as the alignment direction of the liquid crystal molecules.

[0119] In the light-controlling cell 30 shown in FIGS. 1 to 3 , when no voltage is applied to the liquid crystal layer 33, the liquid crystal molecules and dichroic dye are aligned in a direction non-parallel to the first direction D1. The dichroic dye may be aligned in a direction parallel to the second direction D2. The dichroic dye may be aligned in a direction parallel to the third direction D3. In this state, light traveling in the first direction D1 through the liquid crystal layer 33 is absorbed upon reaching the dichroic dye. Due to light absorption by the dichroic dye, the amount of light incident on the first sealing region 30sa of the light-controlling cell 30 from one of the first surface 30a and the second surface 30b of the light-controlling cell 30 is reduced by the time the light is emitted from the other of the first surface 30a and the second surface 30b. As a result, the first sealing region 30sa of the light-controlling cell 30 appears dark when no voltage is applied to the liquid crystal layer 33.

[0120] On the other hand, in the light-controlling cell 30 shown in FIGS. 1 to 3 , when a voltage is applied to the liquid crystal layer 33, the orientation directions of the liquid crystal molecules and the dichroic dye change to a direction parallel to the first direction D1. In this state, the projected area of ​​the dichroic dye on a plane perpendicular to the first direction D1 is reduced compared to when no voltage is applied to the liquid crystal layer 33. As a result, light traveling in the first sealing region 30sa in the first direction D1 is less absorbed by the dichroic dye compared to when no voltage is applied to the liquid crystal layer 33. Therefore, when a voltage is applied to the liquid crystal layer 33, the amount of light absorbed by the liquid crystal layer 33 is reduced compared to when no voltage is applied to the liquid crystal layer 33. As a result, when a voltage is applied to the liquid crystal layer 33, the light transmittance of the light-controlling cell 30 is increased compared to when no voltage is applied to the liquid crystal layer 33.

[0121] Unlike the above description, when a voltage is applied to the liquid crystal layer 33, the light transmittance of the dimming cell 30 may be reduced compared to when no voltage is applied to the liquid crystal layer 33. In this example, the alignment directions of the liquid crystal molecules and the dichroic dye may be parallel to the first direction D1 when no voltage is applied to the liquid crystal layer 33. When a voltage is applied to the liquid crystal layer 33, the alignment directions of the liquid crystal molecules and the dichroic dye may change to a direction non-parallel to the first direction D1. The alignment directions of the liquid crystal molecules and the dichroic dye may be adjusted by an alignment film (not shown).

[0122] In this way, the light-controlling cell 30 adjusts the transmittance of light incident on the light-controlling cell 30. The configuration of the liquid crystal layer 33 is not limited to a configuration including the above-described guest-host liquid crystal composition. As an example, the liquid crystal layer 33 may be configured in a twisted nematic (TN) mode. As another example, the liquid crystal layer 33 may be configured in a vertical alignment (VA) mode. The light-controlling cell 30 including the TN-mode or VA-mode liquid crystal layer 33 may include a linear polarization layer. The linear polarization layer may be included in each of the first sheet 31 and the second sheet 32. It is preferable that the liquid crystal layer 33 does not include a polymerizable compound.

[0123] An example of a method for manufacturing the light adjusting member 1 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 will be described.

[0124] In the first step, the dimming cell 30 is fabricated. A film for forming the first base layer 311 is prepared. A first conductive layer 312 is overlaid on one side of the film. The first conductive layer 312 may be formed on the first base layer 311 by various methods such as sputtering. In this manner, a first sheet 31 is fabricated, which includes the first base layer 311 and the first conductive layer 312 overlaid on the first base layer 311. A second sheet 32 ​​is fabricated by a similar method.

[0125] The first sheet 31 and the second sheet 32 ​​may include an alignment film depending on the configuration of the liquid crystal layer 33. In the first sheet 31 including the alignment film, the first conductive layer 312 may be located between the first base layer 311 and the alignment film. In the second sheet 32 ​​including the alignment film, the second conductive layer 322 may be located between the second base layer 321 and the alignment film.

[0126] The produced first sheet 31 and second sheet 32 ​​include a portion that forms the main portion 30m of the dimming cell 30 and a portion that forms the protruding portion 30t of the dimming cell 30. The produced first sheet 31 and second sheet 32 ​​have a shape that is convex in a direction non-parallel to the first direction D1, like the first sheet 31 shown in Fig. 3. The first sheet 31 and second sheet 32 ​​may be cut out to have such a shape.

[0127] A resin compound that forms the sealant 34 is applied onto the first sheet 31. The resin compound that forms the sealant 34 is applied to the portion of the first sheet 31 that will form the main portion 30m of the light-controlling cell 30. The resin compound that forms the sealant 34 is not applied to the portion of the first sheet 31 that will form the protruding portion 30t of the light-controlling cell 30. The resin compound that forms the sealant 34 is applied onto the first sheet 31 so as to have a circumferential shape. A composition that forms the liquid crystal layer 33 is placed in the area surrounded by the resin compound that forms the sealant 34. The composition that forms the liquid crystal layer 33 may be the guest-host liquid crystal composition described above.

[0128] The second sheet 32 ​​is placed on the first sheet 31 and pressure-bonded. The second sheet 32 ​​is placed on the first sheet 31 from the side formed by the second conductive layer 322. In this state, the resin compound forming the sealing material 34 is cured. The resin compound forming the sealing material 34 may be cured by irradiation with ionizing radiation. The resin compound forming the sealing material 34 may also be cured by heating.

[0129] In this manner, a dimming cell 30 is fabricated, including a first sheet 31, a second sheet 32, a liquid crystal layer 33 positioned between the first sheet 31 and the second sheet 32, and a sealing material 34. The fabricated dimming cell 30 includes a first surface 30a and a second surface 30b opposite the first surface 30a. The fabricated dimming cell 30 includes a main portion 30m and a protruding portion 30t protruding from the main portion 30m in a direction non-parallel to the first direction D1. In the fabricated dimming cell 30, the protruding portion 30t protrudes outward beyond the sealing material 34 in the direction non-parallel to the first direction D1. The fabricated dimming cell 30 may include multiple protruding portions 30t, as shown in FIG. 3 . The fabricated dimming cell 30 includes the first sealed region 30sa, the second sealed region 30sb, and the unsealed region 30sc described above.

[0130] In a second step, the wiring substrate 50 is attached to the dimming cell 30. The wiring substrate 50 is attached to the dimming cell 30 so that the conductive portion of the wiring substrate 50 is electrically connected to at least one of the first conductive layer 312 and the second conductive layer 322. The illustrated wiring substrate 50 is disposed on the protruding portion 30t of the dimming cell 30. The wiring substrate 50 is attached to the protruding portion 30t of the dimming cell 30. As shown in FIG. 2 , the wiring substrate 50 may be attached to the dimming cell 30 at an electrode 55.

[0131] 2 and 3 are attached to a first wiring board 51 and a second wiring board 52. The first wiring board 51 is disposed on the first protruding portion 30ta of the dimming cell 30. The first wiring board 51 is bonded to the first conductive layer 312 on the first protruding portion 30ta from a first side in the first direction D1.

[0132] The second wiring substrate 52 is disposed on the second protruding portion 30tb of the dimming cell 30. The first wiring substrate 51 is joined to the first conductive layer 312 from a first side in the first direction D1 at the first protruding portion 30ta. The second wiring substrate 52 is joined to the second conductive layer 322 from a second side in the first direction D1 at the second protruding portion 30tb.

[0133] The illustrated first wiring board 51 is bonded to the first conductive layer 312 via the conductive bonding layer 40. By bonding via the conductive bonding layer 40, the first wiring board 51 and the first conductive layer 312 are electrically connected to each other. The illustrated second wiring board 52 is bonded to the second conductive layer 322 via the conductive bonding layer 40. By bonding via the conductive bonding layer 40, the second wiring board 52 and the second conductive layer 322 are electrically connected to each other. In this manner, the wiring board 50 is attached to the dimming cell 30.

[0134] In the third step, the first cover 11 and the dimming cell 30 are bonded together. The first cover 11 is overlaid on the first surface 30a of the dimming cell 30. The first cover 11 is bonded to the dimming cell 30 via the first bonding layer 12. In the third step, a first resin compound that forms the first bonding layer 12 is applied to at least one of the first cover 11 and the dimming cell 30. The first resin compound may include the thermoplastic resin described above, or may include the curable resin compound described above. The third step will be described in detail below, taking as an example a case where the first resin compound includes a curable resin compound.

[0135] With the first resin compound applied to at least one of the first cover 11 and the dimming cell 30, the first cover 11 is placed on the first surface 30a of the dimming cell 30. The first resin compound is disposed between the first cover 11 and the dimming cell 30. The first resin compound is in contact with the dimming cell 30 and the first cover 11. The first resin compound is disposed in a position that does not overlap the protruding portion 30t of the dimming cell 30 in the first direction D1. The first resin compound may be disposed in a position that overlaps the main portion 30m of the dimming cell 30 in the first direction D1. The first resin compound may be disposed inside the outer periphery 34a of the sealing material 34 in a direction non-parallel to the first direction D1. The first resin compound may be disposed inside the inner periphery 34b of the sealing material 34 in a direction non-parallel to the first direction D1.

[0136] With the first cover 11 placed on the dimming cell 30 and the first resin compound positioned between the first cover 11 and the dimming cell 30, a curing process is performed on the first resin compound. The curing process is performed according to the type of the first resin compound. As the curing process, the first resin compound may be irradiated with ionizing radiation. As the curing process, the first resin compound may be heated. As the curing process, the first resin compound may be heated and pressurized. A heater is used to heat the first resin compound in the third step.

[0137] The first resin compound is cured to form a first bonding layer 12. The first bonding layer 12 is located between the first cover 11 and the dimming cell 30. In this manner, the first cover 11 is bonded to the dimming cell 30 via the first bonding layer 12. In the dimming component 1 shown in FIGS. 1 to 3 , the first cover 11 and the first bonding layer 12 form a first laminate 10.

[0138] In the fourth step, the dimming cell 30 and the second cover 21 are bonded together. The second cover 21 is overlaid on the second surface 30b of the dimming cell 30. The second cover 21 is bonded to the dimming cell 30 via the second bonding layer 22. In the fourth step, a second resin compound that forms the second bonding layer 22 is applied to at least one of the second cover 21 and the dimming cell 30. The second resin compound may include the thermoplastic resin described above, or may include the curable resin compound described above. The fourth step will be described in detail below, taking as an example a case where the second resin compound includes a curable resin compound.

[0139] With the second resin compound applied to at least one of the second cover 21 and the dimming cell 30, the second cover 21 is overlaid on the second surface 30b of the dimming cell 30. The second resin compound is disposed between the second cover 21 and the dimming cell 30. The second resin compound is in contact with the dimming cell 30 and the second cover 21. The second resin compound is disposed in a position that does not overlap the protruding portion 30t of the dimming cell 30 in the first direction D1. The second resin compound may be disposed in a position that overlaps the main portion 30m of the dimming cell 30 in the first direction D1. The second resin compound may be disposed inside the outer periphery 34a of the sealing material 34 in a direction non-parallel to the first direction D1. The second resin compound may be disposed inside the inner periphery 34b of the sealing material 34 in a direction non-parallel to the first direction D1.

[0140] With the second cover 21 overlaid on the dimming cell 30 and the second resin compound positioned between the second cover 21 and the dimming cell 30, a curing process is performed on the second resin compound. The curing process on the second resin compound is similar to the curing process on the first resin compound. By curing the second resin compound, a second bonding layer 22 is formed between the second cover 21 and the dimming cell 30. In the dimming component 1 shown in FIGS. 1 to 3 , the second cover 21 and the second bonding layer 22 form the second laminate 20. By curing the second resin compound, the second bonding layer 22 is formed. The second bonding layer 22 is positioned between the second cover 21 and the dimming cell 30. In this manner, the second cover 21 is bonded to the dimming cell 30 via the second bonding layer 22. The second cover 21 and the second bonding layer 22 form the second laminate 20.

[0141] The fourth step may be performed after the third step is completed. The third and fourth steps may be performed simultaneously. In particular, when the first resin compound and the second resin compound include a thermoplastic resin, the third and fourth steps may be performed simultaneously. As a result of the third and fourth steps, the dimming cell 30 and the first cover 11 are bonded together, and the dimming cell 30 and the second cover 21 are bonded together.

[0142] In this manner, a stack 5 is produced that includes, in this order in the first direction D1, a first stack 10 including the first bonding layer 12, a dimming cell 30, and a second stack 20 including the second bonding layer 22. A wiring substrate 50 is attached to the dimming cell 30 of the produced stack 5, thereby producing a dimming component 1. The wiring substrate 50 is attached to the protruding portion 30t of the dimming cell 30.

[0143] In a conventional light control component including a laminate including a dimming cell and a wiring board attached to the dimming cell, the laminate may include, in a first direction, a first cover, a first bonding layer, the dimming cell, a second bonding layer, and a second cover, in this order. The first cover may be bonded to the dimming cell via the first bonding layer. The second cover may be bonded to the dimming cell via the second bonding layer. The first bonding layer may be formed from a first resin compound disposed between the dimming cell and the first cover. The second bonding layer may be formed from a second resin compound disposed between the dimming cell and the second cover.

[0144] When fabricating a conventional light-controlling component, the first resin compound forming the first bonding layer and the second resin compound forming the second bonding layer can flow into the connection between the conductive layer of the dimming cell and the wiring board. In particular, the first resin compound and the second resin compound can easily flow into the connection when they are in liquid or paste form. When at least one of the first resin compound and the second resin compound that flow into the connection solidifies, a resin can form between the conductive layer and the wiring board. Generally, resins have insulating properties. In conventional light-controlling components, the formation of resin between the conductive layer and the wiring board can impair electrical connection between the conductive layer and the wiring board. The formation of resin between the conductive layer and the wiring board can cause a disconnection between the conductive layer and the wiring board in a circuit including the wiring board and the dimming cell. Furthermore, the resin disposed between the conductive layer and the wiring board expands when heated. The expansion of the resin can cause the wiring board to peel off from the dimming cell. Therefore, as a result of the formation of resin between the conductive layer and the wiring board and the expansion of the resin between the conductive layer and the wiring board, problems may occur in the dimming function of the dimming cell and the dimming component including the dimming cell.

[0145] Unlike conventional dimming components, in the dimming component 1 shown in FIGS. 1 to 3 , the dimming cell 30 includes a main portion 30m and a protruding portion 30t that protrudes from the main portion 30m in a direction perpendicular to the first direction D1. The wiring substrate 50 electrically connects at least one of the first conductive layer 312 and the second conductive layer 322 at the protruding portion 30t. When the illustrated dimming component 1 is observed from the first direction D1, the first bonding layer 12 and the second bonding layer 22 do not overlap the second portion 302 of the outer periphery 300 of the dimming cell 30. In other words, when the illustrated dimming component 1 is observed from the first direction D1, the first bonding layer 12 and the second bonding layer 22 do not overlap the portion of the outer periphery 300 defined by the protruding portion 30t.

[0146] 1 to 3, when fabricating the light adjusting component 1, the first resin compound forming the first bonding layer 12 and the second resin compound forming the second bonding layer 22 can be prevented from flowing into the connection portion between the first conductive layer 312 and the wiring substrate 50. Similarly, when fabricating the light adjusting component 1, the illustrated light adjusting component 1 can be prevented from flowing into the connection portion between the second conductive layer 322 and the wiring substrate 50. In the illustrated light adjusting component 1, resin formation between the first conductive layer 312 and the wiring substrate 50 and between the second conductive layer 322 and the wiring substrate 50 in the first direction D1 can be prevented. In other words, the illustrated light adjusting component 1 can prevent electrical connection between the first conductive layer 312 and the wiring substrate 50 from being impaired. Furthermore, the illustrated light-adjusting component 1 can also prevent the electrical connection between the second conductive layer 322 and the wiring substrate 50 from being impaired. As a result, the light-adjusting component 1 shown in Figures 1 to 3 can stably electrically connect the light-adjusting cell 30 and the wiring substrate 50, preventing problems with the light-adjusting function.

[0147] The first bonding layer 12 may not include a portion that overlaps with the protrusion 30t of the dimming cell 30 in the first direction D1. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 , the second bonding layer 22 may not include a portion that overlaps with the protrusion 30t of the dimming cell 30 in the first direction D1. By not including a portion that overlaps with the protrusion 30t in the first direction D1 in at least one of the first bonding layer 12 and the second bonding layer 22, the inflow of a resin compound into the connection portion between the conductive layer and the wiring substrate 50 can be effectively suppressed. Therefore, in the dimming component 1 shown in FIGS. 1 to 3 , the electrical connection between the dimming cell 30 and the wiring substrate 50 can be more stable.

[0148] The dimming cell 30 shown in FIGS. 1 to 3 includes a sealant 34 positioned between a first sheet 31 and a second sheet 32. The protrusions 30t (first protrusion 30ta and second protrusion 30tb) protrude outward from the sealant 34 in a second direction D2 perpendicular to the first direction D1. When the illustrated dimming component 1 is observed from the first direction D1, the periphery 120 of the first bonding layer 12 is located inside the periphery 34a of the sealant 34. When the illustrated dimming component 1 is observed from the first direction D1, the periphery 220 of the second bonding layer 22 is located inside the periphery 34a of the sealant 34, as shown in FIG. 2. By arranging the first bonding layer 12 and the second bonding layer 22 in this manner, it is possible to effectively prevent the first resin compound and the second resin compound from flowing outside the periphery 34a of the sealant 34 when fabricating the illustrated dimming component 1. This makes it possible to more effectively prevent the resin compound from flowing into the connection portion between the conductive layer and the wiring substrate 50 .

[0149] By positioning the periphery 120 of the first bonding layer 12 inside the periphery 34a of the sealant 34, the first resin compound can be separated from the connection portion between the second conductive layer 322 and the second wiring board 52 in the second direction D2. This effectively prevents the first resin compound from flowing into the connection portion between the second conductive layer 322 and the second wiring board 52. Furthermore, by positioning the periphery 220 of the second bonding layer 22 inside the periphery 34a of the sealant 34, the second resin compound can be separated from the connection portion between the first conductive layer 312 and the first wiring board 51 in the second direction D2. This effectively prevents the second resin compound from flowing into the connection portion between the first bonding layer 11 and the first wiring board 51. Therefore, in the light control component 1 shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, the electrical connection between the dimming cell 30 and the wiring board 50 can be more stable.

[0150] Furthermore, by positioning the periphery 120 of the first bonding layer 12 and the periphery 220 of the second bonding layer 22 inside the periphery 34a of the sealing material 34, the following effect can be achieved. That is, the first resin compound and the second resin compound can be prevented from flowing between the first sheet 31 and the sealing material 34, and between the second sheet 32 ​​and the sealing material 34. In the illustrated light control component 1, resin formation in the first direction D1 between the first sheet 31 and the sealing material 34 and between the second sheet 32 ​​and the sealing material 34 can be prevented. As a result, in the illustrated light control component 1, peeling between the layers of the light control cell 30 due to expansion of the resin that has flowed between the layers can be prevented.

[0151] From the viewpoint of achieving stable electrical connection between the dimming cell 30 and the wiring substrate 50, the first resin compound and the second resin compound may be disposed at predetermined positions on the dimming cell 30 during fabrication of the dimming component 1 shown in Figures 1 to 3. Specifically, in the third step described above, the first resin compound may be disposed at a position that does not overlap the first protrusion 30ta in the first direction D1. In the fourth step described above, the second resin compound may be disposed at a position that does not overlap the second protrusion 30tb in the first direction D1.

[0152] When the first resin compound includes a thermosetting resin, a lower limit may be set for the heating temperature of the first resin compound by the heater. The heater temperature in the third step may be 80°C or higher, or 90°C or higher. By setting such a lower limit for the heater temperature, the crosslinking reaction of the first resin compound in the third step is promoted. In the third step, the time from application of the first resin compound to formation of the first bonding layer 12 can be reduced. This more effectively prevents the first resin compound from flowing between the first conductive layer 312 and the wiring substrate 50. The heating temperature of the first resin compound by the heater may be 150°C or lower, or 130°C or lower.

[0153] From the viewpoint of further promoting the cross-linking reaction of the first resin compound in the third step, the first resin compound may be pressurized when heated. The first resin compound may be heated under pressure greater than atmospheric pressure. Furthermore, pressurizing the first resin compound can improve the adhesion between the dimming cell 30 and the first bonding layer 12.

[0154] From a similar viewpoint, when the second resin compound includes a thermosetting resin, a lower limit may be set for the heating temperature of the second resin compound by the heater. The heating temperature of the second resin compound by the heater may be 80°C or higher, or 90°C or higher. By setting such a lower limit for the heating temperature of the heater, the crosslinking reaction of the second resin compound in the fourth step is promoted. In the fourth step, the time from application of the second resin compound to formation of the second bonding layer 22 can be reduced. This more effectively prevents the second resin compound from flowing between the second conductive layer 322 and the wiring substrate 50. The heating temperature of the second resin compound by the heater may be 150°C or lower, or 130°C or lower.

[0155] From the viewpoint of further promoting the cross-linking reaction of the second resin compound in the fourth step, the second resin compound may be pressurized when heated. The second resin compound may be heated under pressure greater than atmospheric pressure. Pressurizing the second resin compound can also improve the adhesion between the dimming cell 30 and the second bonding layer 22.

[0156] In the embodiment described above, the light-adjusting component 1 includes a laminate 5. The laminate 5 includes, in the first direction D1, a first cover 11, a first bonding layer 12, a light-adjusting cell 30, a second bonding layer 22, and a second cover 21, in this order. The light-adjusting component 1 includes a wiring substrate 50 attached to the light-adjusting cell 30. The light-adjusting cell 30 includes a first sheet 31 including a first conductive layer 312, a second sheet 32 ​​including a second conductive layer 322, and a liquid crystal layer 33 located between the first sheet 31 and the second sheet 32. The light-adjusting cell 30 includes a main portion 30m and a protruding portion 30t protruding from the main portion 30m in a direction perpendicular to the first direction D1. The wiring substrate 50 is electrically connected to at least one of the first conductive layer 312 and the second conductive layer 322 at the protruding portion 30t. When the light-adjusting component 1 is observed from the first direction D1, the first bonding layer 12 and the second bonding layer 22 do not overlap the portion of the outer periphery 300 of the light-adjusting cell 30 formed by the protruding portion 30t.

[0157] According to this embodiment, it is possible to prevent the first bonding layer 12 and the second bonding layer 22 from being disposed at the connection portion where the first conductive layer 312 and the wiring substrate 50 are electrically connected. It is also possible to prevent the first bonding layer 12 and the second bonding layer 22 from being disposed at the connection portion where the second conductive layer 322 and the wiring substrate 50 are electrically connected. Therefore, according to the light-adjusting component 1 according to this embodiment, it is possible to prevent the electrical connection between the conductive layer and the wiring substrate from being obstructed, and to achieve a stable electrical connection between the light-adjusting cell 30 and the wiring substrate 50.

[0158] Although one embodiment has been described with reference to specific examples, the above-described specific examples do not limit the scope of the embodiment. The above-described embodiment can be implemented using various other specific examples. Various omissions, substitutions, changes, additions, etc. can be made within the scope of the gist of the above-described specific examples.

[0159] An example of the modification will be described below with reference to the drawings. In the following description and the drawings used in the following description, parts that can be configured similarly to the above-described specific example will be designated by the same reference numerals as those used for the corresponding parts in the above-described specific example, and duplicated descriptions will be omitted.

[0160] In the above-described dimming component 1, the dimming cell 30 includes multiple protrusions 30t. The dimming cell 30 includes a first protrusion 30ta protruding from the main portion 30m toward the second side in the second direction D2 and a second protrusion 30tb protruding from the main portion 30m toward the first side in the second direction D2. However, the dimming cell 30 may include a main portion 30m and a single protrusion 30t protruding from the main portion 30m, as shown in FIGS. 4 and 5 . In the illustrated dimming cell 30, the protrusion 30t protrudes from the main portion 30m in the second direction D2. The illustrated protrusion 30t includes a region where the first sheet 31 and the second sheet 32 ​​overlap each other in the first direction D1.

[0161] 4 has eight corners P31, P32, P33, P34, P35, P36, P37, and P38. The illustrated periphery 300 is made up of the following lines: a line connecting corners P31 and P32, a line connecting corners P32 and P33, a line connecting corners P33 and P34, a line connecting corners P34 and P35, a line connecting corners P35 and P36, a line connecting corners P36 and P37, a line connecting corners P37 and P38, and a line connecting corners P38 and P31.

[0162] 4 is observed to have a rectangular shape with vertices P32, P33, P34, and P35. The protrusion 30t of the illustrated dimming cell 30 is observed to have a rectangular shape with vertices P31, P36, P37, and P38.

[0163] Of the multiple lines that constitute the periphery 300 of the dimming cell 30 in Figure 4, the line connecting corners P31 and P32, the line connecting corners P32 and P33, the line connecting corners P33 and P34, the line connecting corners P34 and P35, and the line connecting corners P35 and P36 constitute a first portion 301. Of the multiple lines that constitute the periphery 300, the line connecting corners P36 and P37, the line connecting corners P37 and P38, and the line connecting corners P38 and P31 constitute a second portion 302. When the dimming component 1 shown in Figures 4 and 5 is observed from the first direction D1, the first bonding layer 12 and the second bonding layer 22 do not overlap the second portion 302.

[0164] 5, the electrode 55 may be electrically connected to both the first conductive layer 312 of the first sheet 31 and the second conductive layer 322 of the second sheet 32. The illustrated electrode 55 is electrically connected to the first conductive layer 312 via a first conductive bonding layer 401. The electrode 55 is electrically connected to the second conductive layer 322 via a second conductive bonding layer 402.

[0165] As shown in FIG. 5 , the light control component 1 may include a protective member 60 applied to the side end surfaces of the first laminate 10. The light control component 1 may also include a protective member 60 applied to the side end surfaces of the second laminate 20. By applying the protective member 60 to the side end surfaces of the first laminate 10, peeling between the layers constituting the first laminate 10 can be suppressed. In the illustrated first laminate 10, peeling between the first cover 11 and the first bonding layer 12 can be suppressed. Similarly, by applying the protective member 60 to the side end surfaces of the second laminate 20, peeling between the layers constituting the second laminate 20 can be suppressed. In the illustrated second laminate 20, peeling between the second cover 21 and the second bonding layer 22 can be suppressed.

[0166] 5 , the dimming cell 30 may include a portion on its side end surface where the protective member 60 is applied. This can prevent peeling between layers of the dimming cell 30 in the portion where the protective member 60 is applied. However, the protective member 60 is not applied to the connection portion between the first conductive layer 312 and the wiring substrate 50 or the connection portion between the second conductive layer 322 and the wiring substrate 50. In the illustrated dimming component 1, the protective member 60 is applied to the side end surface of the main portion 30m of the dimming cell 30. The protective member 60 is not applied to the side end surface of the protruding portion 30t of the dimming cell 30.

[0167] The protective member 60 may be made of a sealant, resin, or metal. The sealant may include a thermosetting resin or an ultraviolet curing resin. The sealant may include one or more of an epoxy resin and an acrylic resin as the thermosetting resin or the ultraviolet curing resin. The protective member 60 may include the above-mentioned cured resin.

[0168] When the above-described light control component 1 is observed from the first direction D1, the first bonding layer 12 and the second bonding layer 22 do not overlap with the first portion 301 of the outer periphery 300. However, as shown in FIG. 6 , in the light control component 1 observed from the first direction D1, the first bonding layer 12 and the second bonding layer 22 may overlap with the first portion 301 of the outer periphery 300.

[0169] In the dimming component 1 shown in Fig. 6, the outer periphery 300 of the dimming cell 30 has a polygonal shape when viewed from the first direction D1. In particular, the illustrated outer periphery 300 has eleven corners P51, P52, P53, P54, P55, P56, P57, P58, P59, P60, P61, and P62. The illustrated outer periphery 300 is defined by the following multiple lines:・Line connecting corner P51 and corner P52 ・Line connecting corner P52 and corner P53 ・Line connecting corner P53 and corner P54 ・Line connecting corner P54 and corner P55 ・Line connecting corner P55 and corner P56 ・Line connecting corner P56 and corner P57 ・Line connecting corner P57 and corner P58 ・Line connecting corner P58 and corner P59 ・Line connecting corner P59 and corner P60 ・Line connecting corner P60 and corner P61 ・Line connecting corner P61 and corner P62 ・Line connecting corner P62 and corner P51

[0170] 6, the first portion 301 of the outer periphery 300 is formed by the following lines: a line connecting corners P51 and P52, a line connecting corners P52 and P53, a line connecting corners P53 and P54, a line connecting corners P57 and P58, a line connecting corners P58 and P59, and a line connecting corners P59 and P60.

[0171] 6 , the portion (second portion 302) formed by the protruding portion 30t of the outer periphery 300 may be adjacent to the outer periphery 120 of the first bonding layer 12 in a direction perpendicular to the first direction D1. In the illustrated light control component 1, the distance between the outer periphery 120 and the second portion 302 of the outer periphery 300, which are adjacent to each other in the third direction D3, may be 1 mm or more, or 3 mm or more.

[0172] In the light control component 1 shown in FIG. 6 , the periphery 220 of the second bonding layer 22 may include a portion located outside the periphery 300 of the light control cell 30 in the direction perpendicular to the first direction D1. The periphery 220 of the illustrated second bonding layer 22 is located outside the main portion 30m in the direction perpendicular to the first direction D1. As shown in FIG. 6 , the second portion 302 of the periphery 300 may be adjacent to the periphery 220 of the second bonding layer 22 in the direction perpendicular to the first direction D1. In the illustrated light control component 1, the distance between the periphery 220 and the second portion 302 of the periphery 300 that are adjacent to each other in the third direction D3 may be 1 mm or more, or may be 3 mm or more.

[0173] In the dimming cell 30 shown in Figures 1 to 4, the first protrusion 30ta and the second protrusion 30tb protrude from the main portion 30m in directions opposite to each other in the second direction D2 perpendicular to the first direction D1. This is not a limitation, and the first protrusion 30ta and the second protrusion 30tb may protrude in the same direction in a direction non-parallel to the first direction D1, as shown in Figure 7. The illustrated first protrusion 30ta and second protrusion 30tb both protrude in the same direction (second side) in the second direction D2. The first protrusion 30ta and the second protrusion 30tb are adjacent to each other in the third direction D3.

[0174] 7 , the first wiring board 51 and the second wiring board 52 may be integral. The first protrusion 30ta and the second protrusion 30tb may be disposed at a position where the integral first wiring board 51 and second wiring board 52 can be disposed. In the illustrated dimming cell 30, the distance in the third direction D3 between the first protrusion 30ta and the second protrusion 30tb may be adjusted to enable the integral first wiring board 51 and second wiring board 52 to be disposed.

Claims

1. A light-controlling component comprising: a laminate including, in a first direction, a first cover, a first bonding layer, a dimming cell, a second bonding layer, and a second cover, in this order; and a wiring board attached to the dimming cell, wherein the dimming cell includes a first sheet including a first conductive layer, a second sheet including a second conductive layer, and a liquid crystal layer located between the first sheet and the second sheet, the dimming cell including a main portion and a protruding portion protruding from the main portion in a direction perpendicular to the first direction, the wiring board electrically connecting to at least one of the first conductive layer and the second conductive layer at the protruding portion, and wherein, when observed from the first direction, the first bonding layer and the second bonding layer do not overlap with a portion of the outer periphery of the dimming cell defined by the protruding portion.

2. The light-controlling component of claim 1, wherein the light-controlling cell includes a sealing material located between the first sheet and the second sheet in the first direction, the protruding portion protrudes outward beyond the sealing material in a direction perpendicular to the first direction, and when observed from the first direction, the outer periphery of the first bonding layer and the outer periphery of the second bonding layer are located inside the outer periphery of the sealing material.

3. The light-controlling component according to claim 1, wherein, when observed from the first direction, the light-controlling cell has an area where the first sheet and the second sheet overlap each other at the protruding portion.

4. The light-adjusting component of claim 1, wherein the protrusion includes a first protrusion constituted by the first sheet protruding from the main portion, and a second protrusion constituted by the second sheet protruding from the main portion at a position different from the first protrusion, and the wiring board includes a first wiring board electrically connected to the first conductive layer at the first protrusion, and a second wiring board electrically connected to the second conductive layer at the second protrusion.

5. The dimming element according to claim 1, further comprising a protective member applied to at least one of the side end surfaces of a first laminate formed by the first cover and the first bonding layer and the side end surface of a second laminate formed by the second cover and the second bonding layer.

6. The light-controlling member according to claim 5, wherein the light-controlling member is applied to a side end surface of the main portion of the light-controlling cell.

7. A method for manufacturing a light-controlling component as described in claim 1, comprising: a first step of preparing a light-controlling cell having a first surface and a second surface opposite to the first surface; a second step of attaching the wiring board to the light-controlling cell; a third step of bonding the light-controlling cell and the first cover via a first resin compound that forms the first bonding layer; and a fourth step of bonding the light-controlling cell and the second cover via a second resin compound that forms the second bonding layer, wherein in the third step, the first resin compound is positioned so as not to overlap the protruding portion in the first direction, and in the fourth step, the second resin compound is positioned so as not to overlap the protruding portion in the first direction.

8. A method for manufacturing a dimming component as described in claim 1, comprising the steps of: preparing a dimming cell having a first surface and a second surface opposite to the first surface; attaching the wiring board to the dimming cell; and bonding the dimming cell and the first cover via a first resin compound that forms the first bonding layer, and bonding the dimming cell and the second cover via a second resin compound that forms the second bonding layer, wherein the first resin compound is positioned so as not to overlap the protruding portion in the first direction, and the second resin compound is positioned so as not to overlap the protruding portion in the first direction.

Images