Composite Electro-Optic Pane With Integrated Control Unit Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing composite panes with electrically controllable optical properties face difficulties in achieving a simpler electrical connection, often requiring long cables and complex installation processes, which complicates maintenance and validation.
Innovation Solution
A composite pane design featuring an integrated functional element within a thermoplastic intermediate layer, with a securing element on the pane surfaces for a control unit that simplifies electrical connections and eliminates the need for long cables, allowing for easier maintenance and validation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the control unit is mounted separately from the composite pane using traditional methods (bolting or gluing in the vehicle body), then the electrical connection requires very long cables, but the installation flexibility is improved
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit is integrated directly into the composite pane structure, merging two previously separate components (control unit and pane) into a single unified assembly. This eliminates the need for long cables and complex electrical connections while maintaining installation flexibility, as the control unit is now part of the pane itself rather than a separate component mounted in the vehicle body.
2Device complexity
If the control unit is integrated into the composite pane, then the electrical connection is simplified, but the maintenance accessibility is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The composite pane is designed as a modular assembly where the control unit is integrated but can be accessed as a separate module. The pane comprises multiple layers and components that can be disassembled or opened to access the control unit for maintenance, while maintaining the integrated structure during normal operation. This segmentation allows simplified electrical connections while preserving maintenance accessibility.
3Ease of operation
If traditional mounting methods are used for the control unit, then the electrical cables can be routed externally, but the validation and testing process becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating the control unit into the composite pane, the electrical connections become internal and fixed, eliminating the need for external cable routing. This reduces the variables in the system, making validation and testing more straightforward as the electrical connections are predetermined and cannot be improperly routed during installation.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Facilitates a more straightforward electrical connection and maintenance by integrating the control unit directly onto the pane, reducing cable length and complexity, while ensuring the control unit's protection and maintaining the pane's external appearance.
Implementation Method 1
functional elements whose optical properties can be changed by an applied electrical voltage
Implementation Method 2
When a voltage is applied to the flat electrodes, the liquid crystals align themselves in a common direction and the transmittance of light through the active layer is increased
Implementation Method 3
outer pane and an inner pane, which are joined to one another via an intermediate layer
Data Source
AI summary
A composite pane with electrically controllable optical properties, includes an outer pane and an inner pane joined to one another via a thermoplastic intermediate layer, wherein a functional element with electrically controllable optical properties is integrated into the intermediate layer, wherein a securing element for reversibly securing a control unit is attached to a surface of the outer pane or of the inner pane facing away from the intermediate layer, and wherein a control unit suitable for controlling the optical properties of the functional element is arranged in the securing element.