Vehicle sunroof with switchable glazing and side-firing light emitting diodes
US9517721B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Aug 22, 2014 |
| Grant date | Dec 13, 2016 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 6, 2034 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG02F1/13756
- WIPO fieldSurface technology, coating
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
Certain example embodiments relate to a vehicle window (e.g., sunroof). Side-firing LEDs are provided between first and second substantially parallel substrates and emit light towards central regions of the window. A liquid-crystal inclusive switchable film is provided between the first and second substrates. The liquid crystals are sized such that light received from the LEDs is redirected in a direction substantially normal to major surfaces of the first and second substrates. The switchable film is operable in at least first and second modes, with the window in the first mode having a visible transmission of less than 1%, and with the window in the second mode having a visible transmission of 7-15%. The switchable film and the LEDs are operable independently of one another in connection with the LEDs emitting light and the switchable film controlling visible transmission therethrough.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.