Illuminable Glazing With Invisible Light-Extraction Coating
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing illuminated glazing arrangements have visible light deflection means that are noticeable even when the light source is switched off, which is aesthetically undesirable.
Innovation Solution
A glazing arrangement featuring a transparent coating with a refractive index different from that of air and the glass pane, applied sectionally on one of the main surfaces, and optionally roughened or containing spherical body elements for effective light extraction, making the light extraction means virtually invisible when the light source is off.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If traditional light deflection means (particles, dot grids, stickers, imprints) are used, then light extraction is achieved, but the structures are very clearly visible even when the light source is switched off
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the refractive index parameter of the coating layer to be intermediate between air and glass pane, which fundamentally alters the optical behavior at the interface. This parameter change enables the coating to extract light effectively when the light source is on while remaining transparent and invisible when the light source is off, thus resolving the contradiction between light extraction efficiency and visibility of the extraction means.
2Object-generated harmful factors
If a transparent coating with intermediate refractive index is applied, then the coating becomes virtually invisible when the light source is switched off, but the light extraction mechanism becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a coating layer as an intermediary element between the air and the glass pane. This intermediary layer with intermediate refractive index serves as a mediator that facilitates light extraction through refraction while remaining optically invisible in the off state. The coating layer acts as a bridge that simplifies the overall system by replacing complex visible structures with a subtle optical interface.
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
The solution ensures that the light extraction means are hardly visible when the light source is switched off while maintaining effective light extraction through refraction, reflection, and scattering, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the glazing.
Implementation Method 1
the refractive index of the transparent coating nB differs greatly from the refractive index nL of the surrounding air and from the refractive index of the first pane ns, the light is refracted and coupled out at the transition from the pane to the coating and at the transition from the coating to the air
Implementation Method 2
the coating has an irregular rough pattern and thus has a light-scattering effect
Data Source
AI summary
A glazing arrangement includes a first pane having a first main surface and a second main surface, wherein the first pane is provided to at least partially transmit coupled light, a light source for producing light that can be coupled into the first pane, a light extraction system to couple light out of the first pane via one of the two main surfaces, wherein the light extraction system includes a transparent coating with a refractive index that differs from, in particular is higher than, that of the air and that of the first pane, which transparent coating is arranged in a planar manner at least sectionally on one of the two main surfaces.