Connection arrangement with ribbon cable, test arrangement, and method for electrically testing the connection arrangement

Abstract

The invention relates to a connection arrangement (100), comprising: - a composite pane (1) having two panes (18, 19) which are fixedly interconnected by an in particular thermoplastic intermediate layer (20), - an electrical functional element (2) which is situated between the two panes (18, 19); and - a ribbon cable (3) having a first connection region (11) at a first end (9) and having a second connection region (12) at a second end (10), wherein: the ribbon cable (3) has electrical conductor tracks (6) which are surrounded by an insulation sheath (8); the electrical conductor tracks (6) extend from the first connection region (11) to the second connection region (12); a first portion (21), containing the first connection region (11), of the ribbon cable (3) is situated within the composite pane (1); the first connection region (11) electrically contacts the electrical functional element (2); the second connection region (12) is provided for an electrical external connection of the electrical functional element (2); the ribbon cable (3) has, between the first connection region (11) and the second connection region (12), at least one test region (4) for electrically testing the connection arrangement (100); the insulation sheath (8) has at least one aperture (17) in the at least one test region (4), such that at least one electrical conductor track (6) of the electrical conductor tracks (6) can be electrically contacted within the aperture; and a second portion (22), containing the at least one test region (4) and the second connection region (12), of the ribbon cable (3) is situated outside the composite pane (1). The invention also relates to a test arrangement and to a method for electrically testing the connection arrangement.

Description

[0001] SAINT-GOBAIN SEKURIT FRANCE 2024325-WO-PCT

[0002] Connection arrangement with flat ribbon cable, test arrangement and method for electrically testing the connection arrangement

[0003] The present invention lies in the technical field of disk manufacturing and relates to a connection arrangement comprising a composite disk and an integrated electrical functional element, wherein a ribbon cable serves for the electrical contacting of the electrical functional element. The invention further relates to a test arrangement and a method for electrically testing the connection arrangement.

[0004] Glazing in buildings and vehicles is frequently designed as laminated glass. Laminated glass comprises at least two panes, typically made of glass, bonded together by an interlayer adhesively. This interlayer can be made of PVB, EVA, TPII, casting resin, optical clear adhesive (OCA), or other materials. A thermoplastic interlayer is commonly used.

[0005] Such glazing is increasingly being equipped with electrical functional elements with a planar structure. Particularly for reasons of energy conservation and comfort, high demands are placed on the thermal insulation properties of glazing. It is desirable to avoid high heat gain from solar radiation, which leads to excessive heating of the interior and, in turn, high energy costs for the necessary air conditioning. There are coating systems in which the light transmission can be controlled by applying an electrical voltage. Electrochromic coating systems are known, for example, from EP 0867752 A1, US 2007 / 0097481 A1, and US 2008 / 0169185 A1. Such coating systems are typically switched by external switches located near the glazing.Another function of electrical functional elements aims to keep the field of vision through a vehicle windshield free of ice and condensation. Electrical heating layers are known (see, e.g., WO 2010 / 043598 A1), which, by applying an electrical voltage, cause targeted heating of the windshield. The voltage applied to the electrical heating layer is generally controlled by external switches, which in vehicles are, for example, integrated into the dashboard. For example, from DE 10106125 A1, DE 10319606 A1, EP 0720249 A2, US 2003 / 0112190 A1, and DE 19843338 C2, it is known to use an electrical functional layer as a surface antenna. For this purpose, the functional layer is galvanically or capacitively coupled to a coupling electrode, and the antenna signal is made available in the edge region of the windshield. SAINT-GOBAIN SEKURIT FRANCE 2024325- WO- PCT.

[0006] In laminated glass panes, electrical functional elements are typically arranged between the individual panes and electrically connected to the external environment via a flat conductor. This is because flat conductors usually have a very low overall thickness of a maximum of 0.3 mm. Such thin flat conductors can be easily embedded in the thermoplastic adhesive layer between the individual panes. Examples of flat conductors for contacting electrical functional layers in laminated glass panes in the automotive sector can be found in DE 4235063 A1, DE 202004019286 U1, WO 2012 / 136411 A1, and DE 9313394 U1. The use of flat conductors in laminated glass panes with electro-optical functional elements is also known. These are planar structures with electrically controllable optical properties of an active layer.This means that the optical properties of the active layer, and in particular its transparency, scattering behavior, or luminosity, can be controlled by an electrical voltage. Examples of electro-optical functional elements are SPD functional elements (SPD = Suspended Particle Device), which are known, for example, from EP 0876608 B1 and WO 201 1033313 A1, and PDLC functional elements (PDLC = Polymer Dispersed Liquid Crystal), which are known, for example, from DE 102008026339 A1.

[0007] Electrical functional elements are often connected via busbars, which are located at the edge of the electrical functional elements and electrically connected to them. By connecting the busbars to an external voltage source, typically via flat conductors attached to the busbars, an electrical voltage can be applied and the electrical functional element controlled.

[0008] A flat conductor, for example, is a strip-shaped conductor, particularly a metal strip, that is covered with electrical insulation. In practice, ribbon cables with multiple electrical conductors are used for more complex control tasks. These conductors are very thin, with thicknesses ranging from 0.03 mm to 0.1 mm, and are often made of copper, which has proven effective due to its good electrical conductivity, good workability, and low material costs.

[0009] In composite discs with laminated ribbon cables, a portion of the ribbon cable extends from the composite disc between the two individual discs. Typically, such ribbon cables have a SAINT-GOBAIN SEKURIT FRANCE 2024325-WO-PCT configured connection area at each end along their length. This allows for electrical contact of the electrical functional element integrated into the composite disc at a first connection area located within the composite disc, and an external electrical connection of the electrical functional element at a second connection area located outside the composite disc. This external connection allows for the connection of an electrical component for controlling / regulating or operating the electrical functional element, such as control electronics.The electrical conductors between the two connection areas of the ribbon cable are typically electrically insulated to prevent electrical interference or short circuits.

[0010] The windscreen manufacturer typically requires a composite windscreen with an integrated electrical functional element and a flat ribbon cable connected to it with an external connection for preferably tool-free connection, e.g. to a control electronics system such as the on-board electronics of a motor vehicle.

[0011] A connection arrangement with a composite disk and a ribbon cable leading out of the composite disk for the electrical connection of an electrical functional element integrated into the composite disk is known, for example, from WO 2023 / 030929. In the connection arrangement shown there, the connection area of ​​the ribbon cable outside the composite disk is provided with one or more connectors, e.g., plugs or sockets, to enable a simple external electrical connection of the electrical functional element by means of a plug connection.

[0012] In the industrial mass production of such connection assemblies, the integrated electrical functional elements must be checked for proper functioning as part of quality control, even after the composite disc has been laminated. Due to their integration into the composite disc, this can only be done via the ribbon cable leading from the composite disc, which is connected to the electrical functional element.

[0013] It is conceivable and possible to connect a test device suitable for testing the electrical functional element, which, for example, contains control electronics with a voltage source, to the connection area of ​​the ribbon cable outside the composite disc, which is intended for the external electrical connection of the electrical functional element. This is as shown in the connection arrangement of WO SAINT-GOBAIN SEKURIT FRANCE 2024325- WO- PCT

[0014] As shown in 2023 / 030929, the connection area of ​​the ribbon cable outside the composite disc can have one or more connectors for respective plug connections, which facilitates the connection of a corresponding test device.

[0015] While it is theoretically possible for a worker to manually connect a test device to the connection point of the ribbon cable outside the composite disc, this is not practical in series production because it is costly and relatively time-consuming. In automated series production, the electrical connection at the ribbon cable's connection point should be robot-assisted, primarily for cost reasons.

[0016] Practical experience has shown that the automated connection of a test device to a connector in the termination area of ​​the ribbon cable outside the composite disc places considerable mechanical stress on the ribbon cable, particularly in the area of ​​the electrical connection between the connector and the cable. The thin electrical conductors are indeed very susceptible to breakage, which can occur simply from handling the ribbon cable. This is especially true for the mechanical connection of a test device to a connector in the termination area, such as a socket or plug. For this reason, a connector on the ribbon cable should be plugged and unplugged as infrequently as possible and ideally reserved only for installation, e.g., in a vehicle, connection to control electronics, and any necessary repairs.

[0017] If damage occurs to the laminated ribbon cable, its repair is technically very complex or not possible at all, so that usually a replacement or sorting out of the connection arrangement due to the defective ribbon cable is necessary, which is associated with very high costs.

[0018] CN 109494006 A shows a ribbon cable in which electrical conductors are cut and folded over in an internal area to form pin contacts. CN 201327729 Y shows a ribbon cable in which the insulation sheath is perforated to create direct electrical contact between conductors via contact bridges. WO 2024 / 002685 A1 shows a composite disk with a ribbon conductor extending from the disk and connected to a round conductor. WO 2024 / 126149 A1 shows a composite disk with two interconnected ribbon cables. SAINT-GOBAIN SEKURIT FRANCE 2024325- WO- PCT

[0019] In contrast, the object of the present invention is to provide a connection arrangement with a composite disc and an integrated functional element and a flat ribbon cable connected thereto, which avoids the aforementioned disadvantages. In particular, it aims to create a way to test the proper function of the electrical functional element cost-effectively and easily, without the risk of mechanically stressing the flat ribbon cable, especially in the connection area intended for an external connection of the electrical functional element, to such an extent that damage to the flat ribbon cable occurs.

[0020] These and other problems are solved according to the invention by a connection arrangement as defined in the independent claim. Preferred embodiments are described in the dependent claims. A test arrangement and a method for electrically testing the connection arrangement, as well as a use of the connection arrangement, are described in the dependent claims.

[0021] According to the invention, a connection arrangement is shown which comprises a composite disc and an integrated electrical functional element. In its installed state, the composite disc advantageously serves to separate an interior space from an external environment. The composite disc comprises at least two discs which are firmly bonded together by at least one intermediate layer.

[0022] For the purposes of the present invention, a "disk" (single disc) is understood to be a planar body whose planar extent is significantly larger than its dimension perpendicular to this planar extent. The disc is thus flat. For example, the disc is a pane of flat glass. Each disc has two opposing surfaces that bound the disc on two sides. These two surfaces, which can also be referred to as "main surfaces," give the disc its planar extent. The two surfaces are preferably parallel. As a physical object, the disc has a (circumferential) end-face edge or boundary surface that connects the two opposing main surfaces. The end-face edge surface is, for example, perpendicular to the two main surfaces, but can also be rounded.Here and subsequently, the term "surface" of a disk refers to a principal surface of the disk. SAINT-GOBAIN SEKURIT FRANCE 2024325- WO- PCT.

[0023] The connection arrangement further comprises a ribbon cable with multiple electrical conductors surrounded by an electrical insulating sheath. The ribbon cable has a first connection area at one end and a second connection area at the other end, with the electrical conductors extending between the first and second connection areas. The first connection area serves for the electrical contact of the electrical functional element, and the second connection area is provided for an external electrical connection of the electrical functional element.

[0024] According to the invention, the ribbon cable has at least one area between the first connection area and the second connection area, which serves for electrically testing the connection arrangement, in particular for electrically testing at least one function of the electrical functional element, here and hereafter referred to as the "test area". The test area is arranged in an inner section (inner area) of the ribbon cable, which is bounded by the first connection area and the second connection area (i.e., the inner section is located between the first connection area and the second connection area, wherein the first connection area and the second connection area are not part of the inner section).

[0025] In the at least one test area, the insulation sheath of the ribbon cable has at least one opening, such that at least one conductor of the electrical conductors of the ribbon cable is electrically contactable from the external environment in (within) or through the opening. Advantageously, the ribbon cable has no further openings in its inner section, with the exception of the at least one opening in the at least one test area.

[0026] The connection arrangement according to the invention thus advantageously enables electrical contact between one or more electrical conductors of the electrical conductors and one or more test electrodes of a test device in the at least one test area, so that, in particular, the proper function of the electrical functional element can be verified. For this purpose, it is neither necessary nor intended to electrically contact the (second) connection area of ​​the ribbon cable, which serves for an external connection of the electrical functional element, so that mechanical stress on the ribbon cable in the area of ​​the second connection area, which may optionally be provided with a connecting element, in particular for a plug connection, SAINT-GOBAIN SEKURIT FRANCE 2024325-WO-PCT, can be advantageously avoided.It is understood that the electrical supply line to the electrical functional element is also checked along with the function of the electrical functional element, so that the ribbon cable can also be tested with regard to integrity (integrity of the electrical conductor tracks). In the context of the present invention, the electrical testing of the connection arrangement refers to the electrical testing of the electrical functional element integrated into the composite disk and / or to the electrical testing of the ribbon cable or the electrical conductor tracks of the ribbon cable.

[0027] The connection arrangement comprises a composite disc with at least two discs, which are firmly bonded together by at least one intermediate layer, in particular a thermoplastic intermediate layer, so that a composite disc is formed. For example, the composite disc comprises two discs, but composite discs consisting of three or more discs are also known, which can be used in the same way.

[0028] The laminated glass unit comprises a first pane (outer pane) and a second pane (inner pane). The outer pane and the inner pane each have an outer surface facing the external environment and an inner surface facing the interior, typically with the outer pane's surface facing the external environment being referred to as the first surface (or "Side I"), the inner surface as the second surface (or "Side II"), the inner pane's surface facing the external environment as the third surface (or "Side III"), and the inner surface as the fourth surface (or "Side VI").The terms "outer pane" and "inner pane" refer to the installation situation of the laminated glass in a means of transport or building, whereby the outer pane is located closer to the external environment than the inner pane, and the inner pane is located closer to the interior than the outer pane. However, even in the uninstalled state of the laminated glass, it is typically determined which pane is the outer or inner pane, so it is appropriate to use these terms for the uninstalled state of the laminated glass as well.

[0029] The panes of the connecting arrangement are made, for example, of soda-lime glass. The use of partially tempered glass is advantageous in the production of laminated safety glass. The at least one intermediate layer is preferably a thermoplastic intermediate layer, consisting, for example, of polyvinyl butyral (PVB), ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA), polyacrylate (PA), polyurethane (PU), or mixtures thereof. The thermoplastic SAINT-GOBAIN SEKURIT FRANCE 2024325-WO-PCT

[0030] The intermediate layer can be made of one or more thermoplastic adhesive films, with the thickness of each film preferably being from 0.2 mm to 1 mm, for example, 0.38 mm or 0.76 mm. However, it is also possible for the intermediate layer to consist of a casting resin, an optical clear adhesive (OCA), or a different material. The thickness of the panes can vary widely and thus be adapted to the specific requirements. Advantageously, the panes have a standard thickness of 0.7 mm to 25 mm, preferably 1.4 mm to 2.5 mm for vehicle glass and preferably 4 mm to 25 mm for building glass. The size of the panes can vary widely and depends on the specific application. For example, the panes have typical surface areas of 200 cm² in the automotive and architectural sectors. 2 up to 20 m 2 on.

[0031] In the composite disk, the electrical functional element is arranged between the two disks (i.e., the electrical functional element is integrated into the composite disk), with a first section of the ribbon cable containing the first connection area located inside the composite disk and a second section of the ribbon cable containing the at least one test area and the second connection area located outside the composite disk. The second section of the ribbon cable exits the composite disk between the two disks.

[0032] For example, the electrical functional element is arranged directly on a disc, on a polymer layer, or between polymer layers, such as carrier films or adhesive films. For example, the electrical functional element is deposited on a disc as a functional layer or arranged as a physical object between two adhesive films and within a recess of another (third) adhesive film, with the additional adhesive film surrounding the electrical functional element in a frame-like manner, similar to a passe-partout.

[0033] The glass panes used in the connection assembly can be made of soda-lime glass, but also of other glass types, such as borosilicate glass, quartz glass, or aluminosilicate glass. Rigid plastics such as polycarbonate or polymethyl methacrylate are also conceivable. The panes can be tinted or colored and may have additional coatings, such as low-E layers, anti-reflective coatings, or non-stick coatings.

[0034] The electrical functional element can be any electrical component that has an electrical function and advantageously requires control by external control electronics, making the use of a flat ribbon cable with multiple electrical conductors (SAINT-GOBAIN SEKURIT FRANCE 2024325-WO-PCT) technically feasible. The electrical functional element advantageously has a planar structure such that its planar extent is significantly larger than its dimension perpendicular to the planar extent. The electrical functional element is therefore flat.

[0035] For the purposes of this invention description, the term "electrical functional element" means an electrically conductive layer, in particular produced by deposition, or a physical object, in particular a planar-extended body, which is independently handleable.

[0036] Advantageously, the electrical functional element is a large-area, electrically conductive layer transparent to visible light (electrical functional layer), as described above. The electrical functional layer, or a carrier film containing the electrical functional layer, can be arranged on the surface of a single pane. For example, the electrical functional layer is located on an inner surface of a laminated pane. Alternatively, the electrical functional layer can be embedded between two thermoplastic films of the intermediate layer. In this case, the electrical functional layer is preferably applied to a carrier film or a carrier pane. The carrier film or carrier pane preferably contains a polymer, in particular polyvinyl butyral (PVB), ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), polyurethane (PU), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), or combinations thereof.

[0037] The electrical functional layer is preferably arranged on the surface of a disk and partially covers, but preferably over a large area, of the disk's surface. The term "large area" means that at least 50%, at least 60%, at least 70%, at least 75%, or preferably at least 90% of the disk's surface is covered by the electrical functional layer. However, the electrical functional layer can also extend over smaller portions of the disk's surface.

[0038] The electrical functional layer is preferably transparent to visible light. For the purposes of this invention, "transparent" means that the overall transmission of the glazing complies with the legal requirements for windshields and front side windows and preferably has a transmittance of more than 70% and, in particular, more than 75% for visible light. SAINT-GOBAIN SEKURIT FRANCE 2024325-WO-PCT

[0039] In an advantageous embodiment, the electrical functional layer is a single layer or a layer structure consisting of several single layers with a total thickness of less than or equal to 2 pm, particularly preferably less than or equal to 1 pm.

[0040] For example, the electrically functional layer contains at least one metal, preferably silver, nickel, chromium, niobium, tin, titanium, copper, palladium, zinc, gold, cadmium, aluminum, silicon, tungsten, or alloys thereof, and / or at least one metal oxide layer, preferably tin-doped indium oxide (ITO), aluminum-doped zinc oxide (AZO), fluorine-doped tin oxide (FTO, SnÜ2:F), or antimony-doped tin oxide (ATO, SnÜ2:Sb). Transparent, electrically conductive layers are known, for example, from DE 202008017611 U1 and EP 0847965 B1. They consist, for example, of a metal layer such as a silver layer or a layer of a silver-containing metal alloy. Typical silver layers preferably have thicknesses of 5 nm to 15 nm, particularly preferably of 8 nm to 12 nm. The metal layer can be embedded between at least two layers of dielectric material of the metal oxide type.The metal oxide preferably contains zinc oxide, tin oxide, indium oxide, titanium oxide, silicon oxide, aluminum oxide, or the like, as well as combinations of one or more thereof. The dielectric material may also contain silicon nitride, silicon carbide, aluminum nitride, or combinations of one or more of these. The layer structure is generally obtained by a series of deposition processes carried out by a vacuum process such as magnetic sputtering or chemical vapor deposition (CVD). Very thin metal layers, particularly containing titanium or niobium, may also be provided on both sides of the silver layer. The lower metal layer serves as an adhesion and crystallization layer. The upper metal layer serves as a protective and getter layer to prevent alteration of the silver during subsequent process steps.

[0041] Transparent, electrical functional layers preferably have a surface resistance of 0.1 ohm / square to 200 ohm / square, particularly preferably of 1 ohm / square to 50 ohm / square and most preferably of 1 ohm / square to 10 ohm / square.

[0042] Preferably, the electrical functional layer is an electrically heated layer that provides the at least one pane, in particular a laminated pane, with a heating function. Such heated layers are known to those skilled in the art. They typically contain one or more, for example, two, three, or four electrically conductive layers. These layers preferably contain or consist of at least one metal, for example, silver, gold, copper, nickel, and / or chromium, or a metal alloy, and preferably contain at least 90 wt.% of the metal, and in particular at least 99.9 wt.% of the metal. Such layers exhibit particularly advantageous electrical conductivity with simultaneously high transmission in the visible spectral range. The thickness of a single layer is preferably from 5 nm to 50 nm, and particularly preferably from 8 nm to 25 nm.At this thickness, advantageously high transmission in the visible spectral range and high electrical conductivity are achieved.

[0043] Transparent, electrical functional layers can also serve as a flat antenna, whereby the antenna signal can be tapped at the connection area of ​​the ribbon cable intended for external connection.

[0044] The electrical functional element can advantageously be an electro-optical functional element, such as an SPD or PDLC functional element, as described above. Electro-optical functional elements, such as SPD or PDLC functional elements, are commercially available as multilayer films. These films share the common feature that the active layer is positioned between two surface electrodes, which serve to apply a voltage to control the active layer. As a rule, the two surface electrodes are positioned between two substrate films, typically made of PET. Commercially available multilayer films are also covered on both sides with a protective film made of polypropylene or polyethylene, which serves to protect the substrate films from contamination or scratches.In the manufacture of the connection assembly, the electro-optical functional element is cut out of the multilayer film in the desired size and shape and, in the case of a laminated glass pane, inserted between the films of an intermediate layer, by means of which two panes are laminated together to form the laminated glass pane. A typical application is windshields with electrically adjustable sun visors, which are known, for example, from DE 102013001334 A1, DE 10200504908183, DE 102005007427 A1 and DE 102007027296 A1. Electro-optical functional elements are known per se to those skilled in the art, for example from the aforementioned publications, so they do not need to be explained in more detail.

[0045] It is also conceivable that the electrical functional element is a pressure or humidity sensor. The use of LEDs or photovoltaic cells is also possible. SAINT-GOBAIN SEKURIT FRANCE 2024325-WO-PCT

[0046] In the connection arrangement according to the invention, the electrical functional element is advantageously electrically connected to at least two busbars through which current can be supplied. The busbars are preferably arranged in the edge region of the electrical functional element. The length of the busbar is typically essentially equal to the length of the respective side edge of the electrical functional element, but can also be somewhat greater or lesser. Preferably, two busbars are arranged in the edge region along two opposite side edges of the electrical functional element. The width of the busbar is preferably from 2 mm to 30 mm, particularly preferably from 4 mm to 20 mm. The busbars are typically each formed in the form of a strip.

[0047] Such busbars are designed, for example, as a printed and baked-on conductive structure. The printed busbar contains at least one metal, preferably silver. The electrical conductivity is preferably achieved via metal particles, particularly preferably via silver particles. The metal particles can be embedded in a matrix such as pastes or inks, preferably as a baked screen-printing paste with glass frits. The layer thickness of the printed busbar is preferably from 5 pm to 40 pm, particularly preferably from 8 pm to 20 pm, and most preferably from 10 pm to 15 pm. Printed busbars with these thicknesses are technically easy to produce and exhibit advantageously high current-carrying capacity.

[0048] Alternatively, the busbar can also be designed as a strip of electrically conductive foil. The busbar then contains, for example, at least aluminum, copper, tinned copper, gold, silver, zinc, tungsten, and / or tin, or alloys thereof. The strip preferably has a thickness of 10 pm to 500 pm, and particularly preferably 30 pm to 300 pm. Busbars made of electrically conductive foils with these thicknesses are technically easy to produce and exhibit advantageously high current-carrying capacity. The strip can be electrically connected to the conductive structure, for example, via a solder compound, an electrically conductive adhesive, or by direct bonding.

[0049] A flat ribbon cable is generally a planar body whose planar extent is significantly larger than its dimension perpendicular to this planar extent. The flat ribbon cable is therefore flat. Furthermore, the flat ribbon cable is an elongated (ribbon-shaped) body that has two ends along its length, with, as already explained, the first connection area located at one end and the second connection area at the other. Thus, the flat ribbon cable has two opposing surfaces that define its boundaries on two sides. These two surfaces give the flat ribbon cable its planar extent. The two surfaces are preferably parallel. As a physical object, the flat ribbon cable has a (circumferential) end-face edge or border that connects the two opposing surfaces.The two surfaces define two sides of the ribbon cable.

[0050] The at least one perforation of the at least one test area can be formed on only one side (surface) of the ribbon cable, either on one side or the other, or on both sides (surfaces) of the ribbon cable. Preferably, the at least one perforation of the at least one test area is formed on only one side (surface) of the ribbon cable.

[0051] Each test area of ​​the ribbon cable preferably has a single perforation, but it is also possible for the test area to have two or more perforations.

[0052] The ribbon cable preferably has a single test area, but it is also possible for the ribbon cable to have two or more test areas, which are preferably arranged at a distance along the extension direction of the ribbon cable.

[0053] The flat ribbon cable is flexible and can be optionally formed into a flat or curved shape, which is particularly advantageous for use in vehicle construction to enable electrical contact in confined or cramped space conditions.

[0054] The ribbon cable is partially laminated into the composite disk (in the first section), with the first end containing the first connection area located between the two disks. The electrical conductors in the first connection area are in electrical contact with the electrical functional element and are preferably galvanically connected to it. The ribbon cable is also partially routed out of the composite disk (in the second section), with the second end containing the second connection area and at least one test area located outside the composite disk. SAINT-GOBAIN SEKURIT FRANCE 2024325-WO-PCT

[0055] The ribbon cable comprises several electrical conductor tracks, the electrical conductor tracks preferably being arranged side by side at least in sections (in one plane if the ribbon cable is flat).

[0056] The electrical conductors are enclosed by an insulating sheath, the insulating sheath having at least one opening in the inner section of the ribbon cable between the two connection sections in the at least one test area. Preferably, there is no (further) opening in the inner section of the ribbon cable outside of the one or more test areas.

[0057] In one embodiment, the insulating sheath has a base layer (e.g. base film) and a cover layer (e.g. cover film), each made of a polymeric material, which each form a surface of the ribbon cable.

[0058] Advantageously, the electrical conductors are arranged on the base layer. Preferably, the electrical conductors are firmly bonded to the base layer. For example, the electrical conductors are bonded to the base layer. The thickness of the adhesive layer is, for example, from 10 pm to 150 pm, and particularly preferably from 50 pm to 75 pm. It is also possible that the electrical conductors are applied to the base layer by a printing process, for example, screen printing. If the electrical conductors are arranged on the base layer and preferably firmly bonded to it, the at least one penetration in the insulating sheath of the at least one test area is preferably formed in the top layer. However, it is also possible in principle for the at least one penetration to be formed (only) in the base layer.It is also possible that, viewed vertically through the surfaces of the flat ribbon cable, two superimposed perforations are formed in the base layer and in the top layer.

[0059] The base layer and the cover layer together form the insulating sheath. Advantageously, the base layer and the cover layer are firmly bonded together at the edges, forming the edge surface of the ribbon cable. For example, a base film and a cover film are firmly bonded together (e.g., by laminating, welding, or similar processes).

[0060] In at least one test area, the insulation sheath has at least one perforation, i.e., an insulation-free area of ​​the ribbon cable. Such a perforation can be created during manufacturing using a windowing technique or by subsequent removal, for example, by laser ablation or mechanical removal (SAINT-GOBAIN SEKURIT FRANCE 2024325-WO-PCT). In the windowing technique, the electrical conductors are coated, for example, with insulating films with a corresponding cutout (window) in the test area, either by gluing or laminating.

[0061] Each opening extends completely onto the electrical conductors, i.e., it forms a material-free passage onto the electrical conductors. Viewed perpendicularly through the surfaces of the ribbon cable, the opening has a closed shape and is, for example, formed as a circular or round opening, although any other closed shape is equally possible, in particular oval or rectangular. Each opening is bounded by the insulating sheath material; that is, a border forming the opening is created by the insulating sheath material, and the opening has a completely circumferential border.

[0062] It is understood that the electrical conductors in the two connection areas of the ribbon cable can be electrically contacted, so that there are also areas without insulation there, which, however, are not to be considered test areas according to the invention. In other words, the two connection areas of the ribbon cable do not constitute test areas within the meaning of the invention.

[0063] The width of the ribbon cable can be constant or vary. It is possible for the ribbon cable to be widened in the first and / or second connection area. A maximum width of the ribbon cable is advantageously in the range of 6 mm to 40 mm, preferably in the range of 20 mm to 40 mm, and particularly in the range of 25 mm to 30 mm. A maximum thickness of the ribbon cable is advantageously in the range of 150 µm to 600 µm, preferably in the range of 300 µm to 400 µm, and particularly in the range of 300 µm to 350 µm. Ribbon cables with such maximum dimensions can be particularly well laminated into a composite disk without impairing the stability of the composite disk or disturbing its visual appearance.

[0064] Advantageously, the flat ribbon cable has a length of 5 cm to 150 cm, preferably 10 cm to 100 cm, and particularly 50 cm to 90 cm. It is understood that the length, width, and thickness of the flat ribbon cable can be adapted to the requirements of each individual case. The direction of the length defines the direction of extension of the flat ribbon cable. SAINT-GOBAIN SEKURIT FRANCE 2024325-WO-PCT

[0065] Width is its dimension perpendicular to the flat surface area of ​​the ribbon cable. Thickness is the dimension perpendicular to both length and width.

[0066] The insulating layer, in particular the base layer and / or top layer, preferably contains or consists of polyimide, polyester, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), or polyethylene naphthalate (PEN). The insulating layer, in particular the base layer and / or top layer, may also contain or consist of thermoplastic polymers and elastomers such as polyamide, polyoxymethylene, polybutylene terephthalate, or ethylene propylene diene monomer rubber. Alternatively, potting compounds such as acrylate or epoxy resin systems may be used as the insulating layer, in particular the base layer and / or top layer.

[0067] The base layer and / or top layer preferably have a thickness of 10 pm to 300 pm, particularly preferably 25 pm to 200 pm, and especially 60 pm to 150 pm. Such base layers and / or top layers are particularly suitable for electrically insulating and mechanically stabilizing the electrical conductors, as well as protecting them from mechanical damage and corrosion.

[0068] The electrical conductors of the ribbon cable preferably contain or consist of a metallic material, for example copper, aluminum, stainless steel, tin, gold, silver or alloys thereof.

[0069] Advantageously, the electrical conductors have a thickness of 10 pm to 300 pm, preferably 10 pm to 150 pm, particularly preferably 30 pm to 250 pm, and especially 50 pm to 150 pm. Such thin conductors are particularly flexible and can, for example, be easily laminated into and led out of composite discs.

[0070] Advantageously, the electrical conductors have a width of 0.05 mm to 40 mm, preferably 1 mm to 20 mm, and particularly 2 mm to 5 mm. Such widths are especially suitable for achieving a sufficiently high current-carrying capacity in combination with the thicknesses mentioned above.

[0071] These flat ribbon cables are so thin that they can be easily embedded between the individual layers in the thermoplastic interlayer of a composite panel and routed out of it. The flat ribbon cable is therefore particularly suitable for contacting electrical functional elements in composite panels. SAINT-GOBAIN SEKURIT FRANCE 2024325-WO-PCT

[0072] Each electrical conductor can be electrically contacted at two contact points spaced apart along the conductor. The contact points are areas of the electrical conductor where electrical contact is possible. In the simplest design, these are accessible areas of the electrical conductor.

[0073] The first connection area has individual contact points for the electrical conductors for connection to the electrical functional element. The second connection area is typically, but not necessarily, located on the same side as the first connection area of ​​the ribbon cable. The second connection area also has individual contact points for the electrical conductors. The connection areas of the ribbon cable serve to electrically connect the electrical conductors, for which purpose the insulating sheath is either not present or removed at the contact points, so that the electrical conductors are accessible.

[0074] In one embodiment, the electrical conductors have an electrically conductive oxide protection layer, particularly made of a material containing one or more metals, at least at the point where the insulating sheath of the test area is penetrated. This measure advantageously prevents undesirable oxidation of the electrical conductors, at least in the area of ​​the at least one penetration. For example, the electrical conductors can be partially or completely tinned, silver-plated, or gold-plated.

[0075] The insulation-free connection areas can be produced accordingly using windowing techniques during manufacturing or by subsequent removal, for example by laser ablation or mechanical removal.

[0076] The connection areas are designed according to their respective uses. Advantageously, the contact points in the connection area are designed as soldered contacts. The electrical connection between the connection areas of the ribbon cable and the electrical functional element in the first connection area and an electrical connection element (e.g., connecting cable) in the second connection area is advantageously achieved by soldering, bonding, welding, crimping, plugging, or clamping. Low-melting-point solder is preferred for soldering. Alternatively, the electrically conductive connection can be achieved by bonding with an electrically conductive adhesive. However, it is also possible for the SAINT-GOBAIN SEKURIT FRANCE 2024325-WO-PCT electrical connection to be achieved through direct contact of the electrically conductive surfaces involved.

[0077] Advantageously, the flat ribbon cable is equipped in the first or second connection area with an electrode field comprising a multitude of individual electrodes electrically connected to the electrical conductors. This enables simple electrical contacting of the electrical functional element for its specific control / regulation.

[0078] In the second connection area, the ribbon cable can be electrically connected to an electrical component for the external connection of the electrical functional element, e.g., to on-board electronics or other control and evaluation units. Preferably, the ribbon cable in the second connection area, which is provided for an external connection of the electrical functional element, comprises one or more connectors in which the ribbon cable can be detachably or permanently connected to, for example, a connecting cable. The connector is preferably a plug or a socket, so that a simple plug connection with a mating connector is possible.

[0079] The advantage lies in the fact that at least one connector in the second connection area is mounted on a surface of the ribbon cable. This design eliminates the need for complex soldered connections between the second connection area and the electrical component, as well as the need for insulation of the soldered connection.

[0080] The flat ribbon cable can be designed, for example, as a so-called "Flexible Flat Cable (FFC)", in which electrical conductors are applied to a flexible polymer substrate, or as a "Flexible Printed Circuit (FPC)", in which electrical conductors are printed onto a flexible polymer substrate.

[0081] In an advantageous embodiment, the at least one opening in the at least one test area of ​​the insulating sheath is closed by a removable cover. This can be, in particular, an adhesive tape or a clamp. This measure advantageously provides mechanical protection for the electrical conductors exposed within the opening.

[0082] In an advantageous embodiment, the connection arrangement, in particular the ribbon cable, has at least one SAINT-GOBAIN SEKURIT FRANCE 2024325-WO-PCT assigned to the at least one test area.

[0083] Position markers are provided for the optical and / or physical detection of the position of at least one test area. In particular, the position markers are intended to enable automatic, robot- and / or camera-based detection of the position of the at least one test area. The markers can be located on the electrical insulation sheath. However, it is also conceivable that the position markers are applied to the electrical conductor tracks.

[0084] The position marker can be indicated, for example, by a color contrast or geometric shapes. These are particularly easy to detect using a camera. Furthermore, it is conceivable that the ribbon cable has three-dimensional structures that allow the position of the test area to be determined. These could be, for example, physical protrusions, indentations, or engravings. Optical markers are also possible, such as reflective structures or structures visible in the infrared spectrum.

[0085] Thus, a robot could detect the position of the test area by tracing the flat ribbon cable. This measure advantageously allows the position of the test area to be automatically determined in order to position the test electrodes of a test device for testing the connection arrangement, particularly with robot assistance.

[0086] In an advantageous embodiment, the at least one test area of ​​the ribbon cable is fixed to the composite disk in such a way that one or more electrical conductors within the opening are accessible from the outside. The ribbon cable can be fixed directly or via an attachment connected to the disk. Fixing the ribbon cable in the area of ​​the at least one test area allows the test electrodes of a test device for testing the connection arrangement to be positioned in a particularly simple and reliable manner, especially automatically. This effectively reduces mechanical stress on the ribbon cable during the test process. If the ribbon cable is fixed at least in the area of ​​the test zone, it is conceivable that a position marker is provided on the composite disk or on an attachment between the composite disk and the ribbon cable.

[0087] By marking the position and / or fixing the ribbon cable, the test area can be controlled in a particularly simple, automated manner, for example, by robots. This represents a cost-effective and efficient way to test the connection arrangement, especially for series production. SAINT-GOBAIN SEKURIT FRANCE 2024325-WO-PCT

[0088] In an advantageous embodiment, the first section of the ribbon cable within the composite disk has a temperature sensor. This measure advantageously allows the temperature inside the composite disk to be detected. This can be particularly advantageous for controlling the electrical functional element when heat generation from the electrical functional element is intended, as is the case with a heating layer, or when a malfunction of the electrical functional element can be detected.

[0089] For this purpose, the temperature sensor is electrically connected to one or two electrical conductors of the ribbon cable, for example, to measure an ohmic resistance between the conductors. Advantageously, the temperature sensor is connected to the respective conductor via a soldered connection or an adhesive bond using an electrically conductive adhesive. This ensures a particularly good and durable electrical connection under the conditions of the respective application of the ribbon cable. Preferably, the temperature sensor is firmly bonded to the insulating sheath, in particular the base layer and / or top layer.

[0090] Advantageously, the temperature sensor is a resistance element or resistance thermometer, preferably a measuring resistor or a thermistor (i.e., an electrical resistance whose value changes reproducibly with temperature). Particularly preferred is the temperature sensor a platinum resistor, a nickel resistor, a negative temperature coefficient (NTC) thermistor, or a positive temperature coefficient (PTC) thermistor. Such temperature sensors contain, for example, a layer of a pure metal such as platinum or nickel, or a ceramic (sintered metal oxide), or a semiconductor, or consist of these materials.

[0091] A temperature sensor in the form of an NTC thermistor with an ohmic resistance value of 1 kΩ to 100 kΩ at a temperature of 25 °C, and especially from 5 kΩ to 20 kΩ and, for example, 10 kΩ, is particularly advantageous. The temperature sensor advantageously has a measuring range of -40 °C to 150 °C.

[0092] Preferably, the ribbon cable has at least two test areas, each with at least one penetration of the insulation sheath. For example, a ribbon cable can make electrical contact at various points with at least one SAINT-GOBAIN SEKURIT FRANCE 2024325-WO-PCT

[0093] Allowing the conductor track to be tested using electrodes. This can be advantageous, for example, to test the ribbon cable between the two test areas.

[0094] The electrical traces within the opening in the test area can be contacted by the test electrodes of a test setup, and various types of test electrodes can be used. For example, the electrical traces can be electrically contacted by a spring-loaded contact pin. This can be designed, for instance, as a so-called pogo pin, which has proven to be cost-effective and reliable in the quality control of conductive traces. However, high-precision test probes, such as those used in a flying probe test, are also conceivable.

[0095] The electrical contacting of one or more electrical conductors is used, in particular, to test at least one function of the electrical component. For example, the functionality of an electro-optical component can be checked by applying a voltage. It is understood that the function of the electrical supply line, i.e., the electrical connection between the test area and the electrical component, is also tested. Furthermore, the electrical contacting of one or more conductors can be used to test at least one electrical property of the ribbon cable. Measuring the resistance of the conductors is a suitable method for this.

[0096] The invention also extends to the use of the connection arrangement according to the invention as vehicle glazing or building glazing, in particular as a windshield or roof window of a motor vehicle.

[0097] According to a further aspect, the invention relates to a test arrangement comprising a connection arrangement according to the invention, as described above. The test arrangement further comprises one or more test electrodes of a test device for electrically testing the connection arrangement, wherein the one or more test electrodes electrically contact one or more electrical conductors within the at least one opening. The foregoing descriptions of the connection arrangement according to the invention apply equally to the test arrangement, and vice versa. SAINT-GOBAIN SEKURIT FRANCE 2024325-WO-PCT

[0098] A further aspect of the invention comprises a method for electrically testing the connection arrangement according to the invention, as described above, comprising the following steps: a) Electrically contacting one or more electrical conductors within at least one opening of the at least one test area by means of one or more test electrodes, b1) Applying an electrical voltage and / or an electric current to the one or more test electrodes and detecting at least one function of the electrical functional element and / or detecting at least one electrical parameter of the electrical functional element and / or the ribbon cable by means of the one or more test electrodes, or b2) Detecting at least one electrical parameter of the electrical functional element by means of the one or more test electrodes.without applying an electrical voltage and / or electric current to them, c) removal of one or more test electrodes from the connection arrangement.

[0099] The one or more test electrodes are part of a test setup for electrically testing the connection arrangement, wherein the test setup comprises suitable electrical components required for the desired electrical test, for example, control and / or evaluation electronics, a voltage source, and the like. The method serves for electrically testing the connection arrangement according to the invention, specifically verifying at least one proper function of the electrical functional element and / or the proper function of the ribbon cable (i.e., the integrity of the electrical conductor tracks).

[0100] For example, the function of a PDLC functional element is tested by applying a corresponding operating voltage to the test electrodes and measuring the optical transparency of the PDLC functional element. The optical transparency of the PDLC functional element can be automatically measured, for example, using a light source and a light sensor. Similarly, the function of a heating layer is tested by applying a corresponding operating voltage to the test electrodes. The temperature of the disk can be measured by a temperature sensor. Finally, the function of an antenna layer is tested without applying an operating voltage to the one or more test electrodes; instead, an antenna signal is simply received via a test electrode.It is understood that the above exemplary list is not complete for SAINT-GOBAIN SEKURIT FRANCE 2024325-WO-PCT, but that other functions may be tested depending on the type of electrical functional element.

[0101] When testing the function of an electrical component, the function of the electrical supply line to the component is also tested. It is also possible, in particular, to test the proper function of the ribbon cable itself, for example, by positioning test electrodes along its length. These electrodes can be subjected to a voltage or current to test the integrity of one or more electrical conductors, for example, by measuring their electrical resistance. The test electrodes can be placed in contact with the electrical conductors, especially in openings at various test points distributed along the ribbon cable.

[0102] In an advantageous embodiment of the method according to the invention, i) before electrically contacting the one or more electrical conductor tracks, a removable cover of the at least one opening of the at least one test area is removed, and / or ii) after removing the one or more test electrodes, the at least one opening of the at least one test area is closed, in particular by a removable cover, for example an adhesive tape or a clamp, or by a non-destructively removable filler, such as a curable adhesive.

[0103] Measure i) makes it possible to access the electrical conductors protected by a removable cover in order to carry out the electrical test.

[0104] Measure ii) allows the electrical conductors to be protected after electrical testing. For example, a removable cover, such as a polyimide adhesive tape, can be attached to the opening, which facilitates a simple retest. Similarly, a non-destructively removable filler, such as a curing adhesive, can be inserted into the opening cavity if no further electrical testing is planned. For instance, electrical testing may only be required as part of quality control before delivery of the terminal assembly. Furthermore, the opening can be encapsulated with a cover element. Glass plates, so-called coverslips, are suitable for this purpose. SAINT-GOBAIN SEKURIT FRANCE 2024325-WO-PCT

[0105] In an advantageous embodiment of the method according to the invention, the one or more test electrodes are positioned robot-assisted, which advantageously enables a particularly time- and cost-efficient electrical test.

[0106] In an advantageous embodiment of the method according to the invention, the connection arrangement comprises a composite disk, wherein the temperature inside the composite disk is determined by detecting an electrical signal (e.g., electrical resistance) from a temperature sensor arranged in the flat conductor. This advantageously enables a simple determination of the temperature inside the composite disk, in particular to detect proper functioning or malfunction of the electrical functional element.

[0107] The features described for the connection arrangement and the test arrangement according to the invention apply equally to the method according to the invention, and vice versa.

[0108] The various embodiments of the invention can be implemented individually or in any combination. In particular, the features mentioned can be used not only in the combinations specified, but also in other combinations or individually, without departing from the scope of the present invention.

[0109] The invention is explained in more detail below with reference to exemplary embodiments, with reference to the accompanying figures. These show, in a simplified representation not to scale:

[0110] Fig. 1 shows a schematic perspective view of an embodiment of a flat ribbon cable for use in the connection arrangement according to the invention.

[0111] Fig. 2 shows a detailed view of the test area of ​​the flat ribbon cable from Figure 1.

[0112] Fig. 3 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the connection arrangement according to the invention.

[0113] Fig. 4 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of the flat ribbon cable from Figure 1 in the test area, SAINT-GOBAIN SEKURIT FRANCE 2024325-WO-PCT

[0114] Fig. 5 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of the flat ribbon cable of Figure 1 in the test area with the test electrode in position, as well as a test arrangement according to the invention.

[0115] Fig. 6 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of the flat ribbon cable of Figure 1 in the test area after testing with a removable cover.

[0116] Fig. 7 is a flowchart to illustrate the method according to the invention.

[0117] Reference is first made to Figures 1 and 2, which show a schematic perspective view (top view) of a ribbon cable 3 for use in the connection arrangement 100, designated in its entirety by reference numeral 100 (see Figure 3). Figure 1 shows the complete ribbon cable 3, and Figure 2 shows an enlarged detail view of the test area 4 of the ribbon cable 3, which is represented in Figure 1 by a linear outline.

[0118] For clarity, Figure 1 shows the flat ribbon cable 3 without any further components of the connection arrangement 100. The elongated flat ribbon cable 3 comprises a base layer 5 (base film) on which a plurality of electrical conductors 6 are arranged side by side. A cover layer 7 (cover film) is located on the base layer 5 and is firmly bonded to it, at least at its edges, so that the cover layer 7 and the base layer 5 together form an insulating sheath 8 for the electrical insulation of the conductors 6. The insulating sheath 8 encapsulates the electrical conductors 6 and insulates them from the external environment, unless uninsulated areas are provided. Conductors 6 that are directly adjacent to each other are spaced apart.The base layer 5 and the top layer 7 consist, for example, of polyimide (PI), although other polymeric materials can be used as well, as long as they have sufficient electrical insulating properties.

[0119] In Figure 1, the top layer 7 is shown transparently, so that the underlying electrical conductors 6 are visible. It is understood that the base layer 5 and the top layer 7 are typically opaque to visible light, so that the conductors 6 are not visible through the insulating sheath 8. SAINT-GOBAIN SEKURIT FRANCE 2024325-WO-PCT

[0120] The electrical conductors 6 are, for example, copper traces and are applied, for example, by a printing process, in particular a screen printing process, to the surface of the base layer 5 facing the top layer 7, so that they are firmly bonded to the base layer 5. Thus, the electrical conductors 6 are embedded between the base layer 5 and the top layer 7, having contact with the surfaces of the base layer 5 and the top layer 7 facing each other. The multiple electrical conductors 6 make it possible to perform more complex control processes on the electrical functional element 2 (see Figure 3).

[0121] The ribbon cable 3, for example, has a length of 5 cm to 150 cm, the electrical conductors 6 a thickness of 0.01 mm to 0.3 mm and a width of 0.1 mm to 100 mm. This generally ensures sufficiently high electrical conductivity and current-carrying capacity for the intended practical applications. The base layer 5 and the top layer 7 each have a thickness of, for example, 0.01 mm to 0.3 mm. The ribbon cable 3 is sufficiently flexible and can therefore be formed into a flat or curved shape as desired, making it particularly suitable for installation in confined spaces (e.g., in motor vehicles). The dimension "length" corresponds to the direction of extension of the elongated ribbon cable 3, the dimension "width" is perpendicular to the length in the plane of the ribbon cable 3, and the dimension "thickness" is perpendicular to both the length and width.

[0122] The ribbon cable 3 has two ends along its length, namely a first end 9 and a second end 10, with a first terminal area 11 at the first end 9 and a second terminal area 12 at the second end 10. The electrical conductors 6 extend continuously from the first terminal area 11 to the second terminal area 12. Between the first terminal area 11 and the second terminal area 12 is an inner section (internal area) 13 of the ribbon cable 3. The inner section 13 is bounded by the first terminal area 11 and the second terminal area 12, with the first terminal area 11 and the second terminal area 12 each being separate from the inner section 13, i.e., not part of the inner section 13.

[0123] The first connection area 11 and the second connection area 12 are each wider than the inner section 13, i.e., the width of the first connection area 11 and the second connection area 12 is greater than the width of the inner section 13. In the second connection area 12, the ribbon cable 3 is, for example, cut in the middle and spread open (SAINT-GOBAIN SEKURIT FRANCE 2024325-WO-PCT). The shape of the ribbon cable 3 results from the intended connection options for the ribbon cable 3, whereby any other shape of the ribbon cable 3 can be provided depending on the specific connection situation.

[0124] The first connection area 11 is provided for connection to the electrical functional element 2 and for this purpose has an electrode field 14 with a plurality of surface electrodes 15, wherein each electrical conductor 6 terminates in a corresponding surface electrode 15. The surface electrodes 15 serve as contact surfaces for electrically contacting the electrical functional element 2, for example by means of soldered connections. The electrical functional element 2 is typically provided with busbars for this purpose, which is not shown in detail in the figures.

[0125] The second connection area 12 serves for the external electrical connection of the electrical functional element 2. For this purpose, the second connection area 12 is provided with several (here, for example, two) connecting pieces 16, which are designed, for example, as sockets and enable a simple plug connection with a connecting cable (not shown) for electrical connection to another electrical component, such as control electronics, for controlling / regulating the electrical functional element 2. The electrical conductors 6 are electrically connected to the two connecting pieces 16, for example, by corresponding contact surfaces, pins, or sleeves, which is not shown in detail in the figures.

[0126] The connectors 16 are arranged here, for example, in a straight configuration (angle of 0° to the direction of extension of the ribbon cable 3), which allows for a particularly simple plug connection with a connecting cable (not shown). However, other configurations are also conceivable, for example, a configuration in which the connectors are arranged opposite each other (180°) with respect to one direction from the first connection area 11 to the second connection area 12. In principle, however, any angle is suitable.

[0127] It would also be possible to design the connecting pieces 16 as plugs. In general, the connecting pieces 16 can be brought into a form-fit and / or force-fit connection with a mating connecting piece (not shown). The SAINT-GOBAIN SEKURIT FRANCE 2024325-WO-PCT

[0128] The counterpart is a plug if the connector 16 is a socket, as in the embodiment shown in Figure 1, and vice versa.

[0129] In the first connection area 11, the insulating sheath 8 is not present at least at the surface electrodes 15, so that electrical contact with the electrical functional element 2 is possible. In the second connection area 12, the insulating sheath 8 is not present at least where the connecting pieces 16 have electrical contact with the electrical conductors 6.

[0130] Between the first connection area 11 and the second connection area 12, i.e., in the inner section 13 of the ribbon cable 3, a test area 4 is formed, which serves to test the connection arrangement 100. Figure 2 shows an enlarged detail view of the test area 4. In the test area 4, the insulating sheath 8 has a perforation 17 (only) in the cover layer 7, the perforation 17 extending perpendicular to the length and width of the ribbon cable 3 over the entire thickness of the cover layer 7, so that the electrical conductors 6 are exposed and accessible from the outside. The perforation 17 is located within the inner section 13 and is completely enclosed by the material of the insulating sheath 8.

[0131] In Figure 2, the opening 17 is dimensioned such that all electrical conductors 6 are exposed. However, it is also conceivable that the opening 17 only exposes a portion of the electrical conductors 6, so that a remaining portion of the electrical conductors 6 remains electrically insulated by the insulating sheath 8. In test area 4, at least one electrical conductor 6 is exposed through the opening 17.

[0132] The opening 17 has, for example, a rectangular shape, whereby any other shape and / or size of the opening 17 is equally possible, as long as free access to at least one electrical conductor 6 is ensured and this can be electrically contacted by a test electrode 25 (see Figure 5).

[0133] The electrical conductors 6 are made of copper, for example. To increase corrosion resistance, the conductors 6 are advantageously provided with a conductive oxide protective layer, for example tin-plated, at least in the area of ​​the opening 17 where they are exposed to atmospheric oxygen. SAINT-GOBAIN SEKURIT FRANCE 2024325-WO-PCT

[0134] Although not shown in Figures 1 and 2, the insulating shell 8 could likewise have a perforation in the base layer 5, it being understood that a firm connection between electrical conductors 6 and the base layer 5 would have to be taken into account during manufacturing (e.g. by using window technology).

[0135] Figure 3 shows a cross-sectional view (section perpendicular to the plane of the pane) of an embodiment of the connection arrangement 100 according to the invention. The connection arrangement 100 comprises a laminated pane 1 in which a first pane 18 and a second pane 19 are firmly bonded together by a thermoplastic intermediate layer 20. The laminated pane 1 is used here, for example, as a windshield for a motor vehicle. The first pane 18 and the second pane 19 are made, for example, of soda-lime glass with a thickness of, for example, 1.5 mm or 2.1 mm, whereby the first pane 18 and the second pane 19 do not have to have the same thickness. In the installed state, the first pane 18 serves, for example, as the outer pane and the second pane 19 as the inner pane. The outer pane and the inner pane each have an outer surface facing the external environment and an inner surface facing the interior.

[0136] The thermoplastic intermediate layer 20 consists, for example, of clear polyvinyl butyral (PVB), the thickness of which does not have to be constant over the entire disc surface, but can also have a wedge angle.

[0137] An electrical functional element 2 is embedded in the thermoplastic intermediate layer 20. During the production of the composite disc 1, the electrical functional element 2 is positioned between two PVB films with a thickness of, for example, 0.38 mm or 0.76 mm and within a recess of another PVB film, which surrounds the electrical functional element 2 in a frame-like manner and has a thickness approximately corresponding to the height of the electrical functional element 2. These PVB films fuse together during lamination. Figure 3 shows the laminated state, in which the individual PVB films can only be conceptually distinguished. Advantageously, before laminating the composite disc 1, the ribbon cable 3 is electrically connected to the electrical functional element 2 in the first connection area 11, i.e., in the electrode field 14. This procedure is known to those skilled in the art, so it need not be described in detail here.SAINT-GOBAIN SEKURIT FRANCE 2024325-WO-PCT.

[0138] The electrical functional element 2 is shown schematically in Figure 3 and is, for example, an electro-optical functional element, such as an SPD functional element or a PDLC functional element.

[0139] The flexible ribbon cable 3 contacts the electrical functional element 2 in the first connection area 11 inside the composite disk 1 and, in the laminated state of the composite disk 1, is led out of the composite disk 1 between the two disks 18, 19. The ribbon cable 3 can be divided into a first section 21 inside the composite disk 1 and a second section 22 outside the composite disk 2. The second section 22 contains the test area 4 with the opening 17 and the second connection area 12.

[0140] In the embodiment shown in Figure 3, the second section 22 is guided around the end face 23 of the second disk 19 and attached to the surface of the second disk 19 facing the interior. The attachment of the second section 22 of the ribbon cable 3 to the second disk 19 is such that the test area 4 faces away from the second disk 19, i.e., the electrical conductors 6 exposed within the opening 17 are accessible from the outside. The second section 22 is only partially attached to the second disk 19. The essential point is that the test area 4 is fixed in place so that one or more test electrodes 25 (see Figure 5) can be easily positioned.

[0141] Figure 3 schematically shows a connection element 24 (e.g., one or more connecting cables) which electrically contacts the second connection area 12 and serves for an external electrical connection of the electrical functional element 2. The connection element 24 is not necessary for understanding the invention, so it will not be discussed in detail here.

[0142] Figures 4 to 6 each show a cross-sectional view in the direction of extension through the ribbon cable 3 along an electrical conductor 6 within the test area 4. Figure 4 corresponds to a cross-sectional view of the test area 4 of the ribbon cable 3 from Figure 1. The opening 17 in the insulating sheath 8 in the cover layer 7 is clearly visible, through which the underlying electrical conductors 6 are exposed and freely accessible from the outside. In Figure 4, an electrical conductor 6 is shown in longitudinal section, corresponding to the sectional view. SAINT-GOBAIN SEKURIT FRANCE 2024325-WO-PCT

[0143] Figure 5 shows a situation in which a test electrode 25 is positioned within the opening 17. The test electrode 25 is in physical contact with the electrical conductor 6 and is also in electrical contact with it. The test electrode 25 is, for example, designed as a so-called "pogo pin" and can, in principle, have any shape that enables electrical contact with the electrical conductor 6. Although not shown, it is understood that multiple test electrodes 25 can be brought into electrical contact with the electrical conductors 6 simultaneously, e.g., one test electrode 25 per electrical conductor 6.

[0144] The one or more test electrodes 25 can be used to test at least one function of the electrical functional element 2 and / or the integrity of the electrical conductor tracks 6. The one or more test electrodes 25 are part of a test setup not shown in detail.

[0145] 26, which may include control and / or evaluation electronics, a voltage source, and the like, to perform the desired electrical test. For example, for this purpose, an electrical voltage and / or current is applied to the electrical functional element 2 via the test electrodes 25, and it is checked whether the electrical functional element 2 functions appropriately. However, it is also conceivable that only a signal from the electrical functional element 2 is tapped via one or more test electrodes 25, for example, an antenna signal. The connection arrangement 100 and the test device 26 with the test electrodes 25 together form a test arrangement 101.

[0146] Figure 6 shows the arrangement of Figures 4 and 5 at a time before or after the test procedure. The opening 17 in test area 4 is covered by a removable cover.

[0147] 27, for example, an adhesive tape, sealed to the outside, creating a cavity 28 between the cover and the base layer 5. The cover serves to protect the electrical conductors 6. It is also conceivable that the cavity 28 of the opening 17 is completely filled after the test procedure with a non-destructively removable filler, for example, a curable adhesive, so that the cavity 28 is permanently sealed, for example, if no further electrical test is planned after a quality control check before delivery.

[0148] Figure 7 shows a flowchart of a method according to the invention for electrically testing the connection arrangement. SAINT-GOBAIN SEKURIT FRANCE 2024325-WO-PCT

[0149] The method comprises at least the following steps: a) Electrically contacting one or more electrical conductors (6) in the at least one opening of the at least one test area (4) by means of one or more test electrodes (25), b1) Applying an electrical voltage and / or electric current to the one or more test electrodes (25) and detecting at least one function of the electrical functional element (2) and / or detecting at least one electrical quantity of the electrical functional element (2) and / or the ribbon cable (3) by means of the one or more test electrodes, or b2) Detecting at least one electrical quantity of the electrical functional element (2) by means of the one or more test electrodes (25) without applying an electrical voltage and / or electric current to them.c) Removal of one or more test electrodes (25) from the connection assembly (100).

[0150] From the above explanations, it follows that the connection arrangement according to the invention advantageously enables cost-effective and simple electrical contacting of one or more electrical conductors of the ribbon cable for electrical testing of at least one function of the electrical functional element as well as the electrical integrity of the ribbon cable. The connection arrangement according to the invention avoids excessive mechanical stress, particularly on connectors in the connection area of ​​the ribbon cable intended for the external connection of the electrical functional element, thus minimizing the risk of damage to the ribbon cable during the testing process.

[0151] SAINT-GOBAIN SEKURIT FRANCE 2024325-WO-PCT

[0152] Reference symbol list

[0153] 1 composite disc

[0154] 2 electrical functional element

[0155] 3 flat ribbon cables

[0156] 4 Test area

[0157] 5 Base layer

[0158] 6 conductor track

[0159] 7 Top layer

[0160] 8 Insulation cover

[0161] 9 first end

[0162] 10 second end

[0163] 11 first connection area

[0164] 12 second connection area

[0165] 13 Interior section

[0166] 14 Electrode field

[0167] 15 surface electrode

[0168] 16 Connecting piece

[0169] 17 Breakthrough

[0170] 18 first disc

[0171] 19 second disc

[0172] 20 Intermediate shift

[0173] 21 first section

[0174] 22 second section

[0175] 23 Edge area

[0176] 24 connection element

[0177] 25 Test electrode

[0178] 26 Test facility

[0179] 27 Cover

[0180] 28 Cavity

[0181] 100 connection arrangement

[0182] 101 Test setup

Claims

SAINT-GOBAIN SEKURIT FRANCE 2024325-WO-PCT Claims 1. Connection arrangement (100) comprising: a composite disk (1) having at least two disks (18, 19) firmly connected to each other by at least one intermediate layer (20), an electrical functional element (2) located between the two disks (18, 19), a ribbon cable (3) with a first connection area (11) at a first end (9) and a second connection area (12) at a second end (10), wherein the ribbon cable (3) has electrical conductors (6) extending from the first connection area (11) to the second connection area (12), the electrical conductors (6) being surrounded by an insulating sheath (8), a first section (21) of the ribbon cable (3) containing the first connection area (11) being located inside the composite disk (1), the first connection area (11) making electrical contact with the electrical functional element (2),wherein the second connection area (12) is provided for an external electrical connection of the electrical functional element (2), wherein the ribbon cable (3) has at least one test area (4) for electrically testing the connection arrangement (100) between the first connection area (11) and the second connection area (12), wherein the insulating sheath (8) in the at least one test area (4) has at least one opening (17) such that at least one electrical conductor (6) of the electrical conductors (6) can be electrically contacted within the opening, wherein a second section (22) of the ribbon cable (3) containing the at least one test area (4) and the second connection area (12) is located outside the composite disk (1).

2. Connection arrangement (100) according to claim 1, wherein the insulating shell (8) comprises a base layer (5) made of a polymeric material on which the electrical conductors (6) are arranged, and a cover layer (7) made of a polymeric material, wherein the opening (17) of the insulating shell (8) of the at least one test area (4) is formed in the cover layer (7).

3. Connection arrangement (100) according to one of claims 1 or 2, wherein the opening (17) of the insulating shell (8) of the at least one test area (4) is closed by a removable cover (27), in particular an adhesive tape. SAINT-GOBAIN SEKURIT FRANCE 2024325-WO-PCT 4. Connection arrangement (100) according to one of claims 1 to 3, in which the electrical conductor tracks (6) have an electrically conductive oxidation protection layer, in particular made of a material containing one or more metals, at least within the at least one opening (17) of the insulating shell (8) of the at least one test area (4).

5. Connection arrangement (100) according to one of claims 1 to 4, which has at least one position marking assigned to the at least one test area (4) for detecting a position of the test area (4), wherein in particular the ribbon cable (3) is provided with such a position marking.

6. Connection arrangement (100) according to one of claims 1 to 5, in which the at least one test area (4) of the ribbon cable (3) is fixed to the composite disk (18, 19) such that at least one conductor track (6) of the electrical conductor tracks (6) is accessible from the outside within the opening (17).

7. Connection arrangement (100) according to one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the ribbon cable (3) has a temperature sensor in the first section (21).

8. Connection arrangement (100) according to one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the electrical functional element (2) is an electro-optical functional element, in particular an SPD functional element or a PDLC functional element, or an electrical functional layer, in particular a planar antenna or a heating layer.

9. Connection arrangement (100) according to one of claims 1 to 8, in which the ribbon cable (3) has one or more electrical connecting pieces (16), selected from plug or socket, which are firmly connected to the ribbon cable (3) in the second connection area (12).

10. Test arrangement (101) comprising: a connection arrangement (100) according to one of claims 1 to 9, one or more test electrodes (25) of a test device (26) for electrically testing the connection arrangement (100), wherein the one or more test electrodes (25) electrically contact one or more electrical conductors (6) of the electrical conductors (6) within the at least one opening (17). SAINT-GOBAIN SEKURIT FRANCE 2024325-WO-PCT 1. A method for electrically testing the connection arrangement (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, comprising the following steps: a) Electrically contacting one or more electrical conductors (6) within the at least one opening (17) of the at least one test area (4) by means of one or more test electrodes (25), b1) Applying an electrical voltage and / or electrical current to the one or more test electrodes (25) and detecting at least one function of the electrical functional element (2) and / or detecting at least one electrical parameter of the electrical functional element (2) and / or of one or more electrical conductors (6) by means of the one or more test electrodes (25), or b2) Detecting at least one electrical parameter of the electrical functional element (2) by means of the one or more test electrodes (25).without applying an electrical voltage and / or electric current to them, c) removal of one or more test electrodes (25) from the connection arrangement (100).

12. Method according to claim 11, wherein i) before electrically contacting the one or more electrical conductors (6), a removable cover (27) of the at least one opening (17) of the at least one test area (4) is removed, and / or ii) after removing the one or more test electrodes (25), the at least one opening (17) of the at least one test area (4) is closed.

13. Method according to one of claims 11 or 12, wherein i) one or more test electrodes (25) are positioned robotically, and / or ii) a temperature within the composite disk (1) is determined by detecting an electrical signal from a temperature sensor.

14. Use of the connection arrangement (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 9 as vehicle glazing or building glazing, in particular as a windshield or roof window of a motor vehicle.

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