CN111164269A

CN111164269A - Light-transmitting panel with active component

Info

Publication number: CN111164269A
Application number: CN201880064260.1A
Authority: CN
Inventors: C·玛祖; M·B·d·S·玛加尔豪斯; P·F·玛斯彻莱恩; G·A·科霍恩; D·C·斯科特; D·E·金格曼
Original assignee: Apple Inc
Current assignee: Apple Inc
Priority date: 2017-10-12
Filing date: 2018-09-27
Publication date: 2020-05-15
Anticipated expiration: 2038-09-27
Also published as: JP7245238B2; JP2020537175A; EP3669042A1; JP7412475B2; JP2024038135A; CN113250589A; WO2019074679A1; JP2022105033A; CN111164269B

Abstract

A light transmissive panel assembly includes a first panel, a second panel, a gap between the first panel and the second panel, and a first active component in the gap. The first active component has controllable light transmission characteristics.

Description

Light-transmitting panel with active component

Cross Reference to Related Applications

The present application claims the benefit of U.S. patent application No. 62/571,470 entitled "Light Transmitting Panel with active Components" filed on 12/10/2017. The present application claims the benefit of U.S. patent application No. 15/983,152 entitled "Light Transmitting Panel with Active Components" filed on 2018, month 5, 18. The contents of the aforementioned patent application are incorporated by reference herein in their entirety for all purposes.

Technical Field

This patent application relates generally to light transmitting panels.

Background

Panels made of glass and some plastics allow the transmission of light, and may also allow the transmission of heat and sound.

Disclosure of Invention

One aspect of the disclosed embodiments is a light transmissive panel assembly that includes a first panel, a second panel, a gap between the first panel and the second panel, and a first active component in the gap. The first active component has controllable light transmission characteristics.

In some implementations of the light transmissive panel assembly, the first active component is attached to the first panel by an adhesive.

In some implementations, the light-transmissive panel assembly includes a spacer that separates the first active component from the first panel and separates the first active component from the second panel. The spacer may include a support structure suspending the first active component within the gap.

In some implementations, the light-transmissive panel assembly includes a second active component positioned in the gap, the second active component having controllable light emission characteristics. The first active component may be adjacent to the first panel, the second active component may be adjacent to the second panel, and the first active component may be spaced apart from the second panel. The first panel may have a first surface adjacent to an external space and a second surface adjacent to an internal space, the first active component may be mounted to the second surface of the first panel, and the second active component may be mounted to the first surface of the second panel.

In some implementations, the first active component is capable of changing between a translucent state and an opaque state. In some implementations, the first active component is capable of changing between a translucent state and a reflective state.

In some implementations, the second active component is an edge-lit glass panel. The edge-lit glass panel may include an illumination device. The edge-lit glass panel may comprise a spacer positioned between the first and second panels to space the first and second panels to define the gap, wherein the illumination means is positioned outwardly relative to the spacer. The edge-lit glass panel may comprise a frame, wherein an outer edge of the first panel extends outwardly relative to the lighting device, and the outer edge of the first panel is supported by the frame.

In some implementations of the light transmitting panel assembly, the first panel is a laminated structure and the second panel is a laminated structure. The first active component may be connected to the first panel by an adhesive, and the second active component may be connected to the second panel by an adhesive.

Drawings

Fig. 1 is a perspective view illustration showing an assembly including a frame and a panel assembly according to a first implementation.

FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the assembly taken along line 2-2 of FIG. 1, including the first and second panels of the panel assembly.

Fig. 3 is a detail view showing the area designated in fig. 2, including an example of the connection of the first frame portion of the frame with the first and second panels of the panel assembly of fig. 1.

Fig. 4 is a diagram illustrating a first exemplary structure for a first panel of the panel assembly of fig. 1.

Fig. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of a second layer including a first exemplary structure of variable light transmission for a first panel of the panel assembly of fig. 1.

Fig. 6 is a diagram illustrating a second exemplary structure for a first panel of the panel assembly of fig. 1.

Fig. 7 is a diagram illustrating a third exemplary structure for a first panel of the panel assembly of fig. 1.

Fig. 8 is a diagram illustrating a first exemplary structure for a second panel of the panel assembly of fig. 1.

Fig. 9 is a diagram illustrating a second exemplary structure for a second panel of the panel assembly of fig. 1.

Fig. 10 is a diagram illustrating a third exemplary structure for a second panel of the panel assembly of fig. 1.

Fig. 11 is a diagram illustrating a fourth exemplary structure for a second panel of the panel assembly of fig. 1.

Fig. 12 is an illustration showing a cross-sectional view of a panel assembly according to a second implementation.

Fig. 13 is an illustration showing a cross-sectional view of a panel assembly according to a third implementation.

Fig. 14 is an illustration showing a cross-sectional view of a panel assembly according to a fourth implementation.

Fig. 15A is an illustration showing a cross-sectional view of a panel assembly according to a fifth implementation.

Fig. 15B is an illustration showing a cross-sectional view of a panel assembly according to a sixth implementation.

Fig. 16 is a block diagram showing a lighting system.

Fig. 17 is a diagram showing an example of a hardware configuration for a controller.

Detailed Description

The disclosure herein relates to light transmissive panel assemblies, such as windows, comprising transparent or translucent panels. The light-transmitting panel assembly includes a first laminated panel structure and a second laminated panel structure separated by a gap, which may also be referred to as an air gap or space.

In some implementations, the first and second laminate panel structures each include an active controllable component. For example, a first laminated panel structure may incorporate controllable variable light transmission devices and a second laminated panel structure may incorporate illumination. By laminating the active controllable component into the first or second panel structure, the active controllable component can be separated from the exterior of the assembly by one or more other layers (e.g., a transparent glass or plastic layer) such that the active controllable component is protected from damage.

In other implementations, the actively controllable components are disposed in or adjacent to the gap between the first panel and the second panel, without including components in the laminate structure. This configuration protects the components from damage while avoiding them being laminated as part of the first panel or the second panel.

Fig. 1 is a perspective view illustration showing an assembly 100 including a frame 102 and a panel assembly 104. The panel assembly 104 is supported by the frame 102. In the illustrated example, the panel assembly 104 is peripherally surrounded by the frame 102 such that a peripheral edge of the panel assembly 104 is connected to and supported by the panel assembly 104.

Fig. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the assembly 100 taken along line 2-2 in fig. 1. The panel assembly 104 extends between a first frame portion 202a of the frame 102 and a second frame portion 202b of the frame 102. The panel assembly 104 includes a first panel 206 and a second panel 208. The first panel 206 is positioned adjacent to the first side 201a of the assembly 100 and the second panel 208 is positioned adjacent to the second side 201b of the assembly 100. In a typical implementation, the exterior space is located on a first side 201a of the assembly 100 and the interior space is located on a second side 201b of the assembly 100. As an example, the interior space may be the interior of a building or the interior of a passenger compartment of a vehicle.

As will be described further herein, active components are included in the first panel 206 and the second panel 208 to control the transmission of light from the first side 201a of the assembly 100 to the second side 201b of the assembly 100. In particular, the first panel 206 has variable light transmission characteristics and the second panel 208 has variable light emission characteristics. For example, the first panel 206 may incorporate variable light transmission technology to vary the amount of ambient light (e.g., sunlight) passing from the first side 201a of the assembly 100 to the second side 201b of the assembly 100, and the second panel 208 may incorporate a lighting device that provides illumination to the space on the second side 201b of the assembly 100. The variable transmission may also comprise a switchable mirror that changes state between transparent and reflective. The active components may be controlled to provide illumination of a desired light intensity and light quality by mixing artificial and natural light. As an example, by positioning the switchable mirror layer or component outwardly from the light emitting device, more light can be directed into the interior space. As one example, by positioning the variable coloring layer or member outward from the light emitting device, less emitted light is directed to the external space. As one example, by positioning the variably colored layer or component outward from the light emitting device, ambient light can be blocked to allow control of light intensity and characteristics in the interior space.

Fig. 3 is a detail view showing the area designated in fig. 2, including an example of the connection of the first frame portion 202a of the frame 102 with the first panel 206 and the second panel 208 of the panel assembly 104. The first frame portion 202a of the frame 102 includes a connection structure that engages the edges of the first panel 206 and the second panel 208. In the illustrated example, the channel 310 is formed on a side surface of the first frame portion 202a and extends inwardly. A sealing structure 312 is disposed in the channel 310. The seal structure 312 supports the first and

second panels

206, 208 relative to the first frame portion 202 a. The sealing structure 312 may prevent air and liquid from passing through and may also provide cushioning for the first and

second panels

206, 208 relative to the first frame portion 202a of the frame 102.

The first panel 206 and the second panel 208 are supported such that a lower surface of the first panel 206 is spaced apart from an upper surface of the second panel 208. For example, the frame 102 (including the first frame portion 202a and the sealing structure 312) may be configured to maintain a desired spacing between the first panel 206 and the second panel 208. Thus, the frame 102 acts as a support structure that supports the first panel 206 relative to the second panel 208, and the seal structure 312 acts as a spacer to define a gap 314 between the first panel 206 and the second panel 208. The gap 314 is a space through which the first panel 206 and the second panel 208 are separated. The gap 314 may eliminate contact between the first panel 206 and the second panel 208 to reduce heat transmission and acoustic transmission between the first panel 206 and the second panel 208. In some implementations, the gap 314 is evacuated. In some implementations, the gap 314 is filled with a gas, such as argon or another inert gas, or with a gas mixture, such as air. In some implementations, the gap 314 can be filled with a liquid or gel that can have an index of refraction matched to the first panel 206 and/or the second panel 208. In addition to the frame 102, spacers may be included adjacent the frame to support the first panel 206 relative to the second panel 208 and define the gap 314.

For example, separate channels may be formed in the frame 102 and/or the sealing structure 312 to separate the first panel 206 from the second panel 208. The spacing between the first panel 206 and the second panel 208 defines a gap 314 between the first panel 206 and the second panel 208. For example, the width of each of the first and

second panels

206, 208 may be between 2.0mm and 8.0mm, and the gap 314 may have a width between 2.0mm and 12.0 mm. In one implementation, the gap 314 has a nominal width of 4.0mm, which is affected by manufacturing variations and deflections caused by the self-weight and/or external forces acting on the first and

second panels

206, 208. In some implementations, the width of the gap 314 is less than the width of the first panel 206, and the width of the gap 314 is also less than the width of the second panel 208. In some implementations, the width of the gap 314 is less than the width of at least one of the first panel 206 or the second panel 208. In some implementations, the width of the gap 314 is less than the combined width of the first panel 206 and the second panel 208.

In some implementations, the sealing structure 312 defines an airtight seal of the gap 314 such that outside air does not enter the gap 314. In embodiments in which the gap 314 is sealed from the outside air, the gap 314 may be filled with air at atmospheric pressure, or a controlled atmosphere may be defined in the gap 314. In one implementation, the gap 314 is substantially evacuated, and the pressure in the gap 314 is substantially less than atmospheric pressure. In other implementations, a gas or gas mixture other than ambient air, such as substantially pure nitrogen, may be present in gap 314. The gas or gas mixture present in the gap 314 may be selected to enhance the acoustic and thermal insulating properties attributable to the gap 314.

The assembly 100 may be configured such that there is no intervening structure between the first panel 206 and the second panel 208 at a location inward from the frame 102. In such implementations, the gap 314 is continuous and uninterrupted at all locations inward from the frame 102. In other implementations, a transparent spacer is positioned between the first panel 206 and the second panel 208 at a location inward from the frame 102. As one example, the spacer may be a layer of transparent material having a limited longitudinal extent and lateral extent. As another example, the spacer may be elongated in the transverse or longitudinal direction. As another example, the spacer may include elongate lateral portions and elongate longitudinal portions that intersect one another in a grid formation. In such implementations, a gap 314 is disposed around and between the spacers and may be divided into unconnected portions.

The first panel 206 is connected to a first electrical connector 316. The first electrical connection 316 is connected to a power source and/or controller to provide power and/or control signals to one or more active components incorporated in the first panel 206.

The light source 318 is supported by the first frame portion 202a adjacent an edge of the second panel 208. The light source 318 may extend along all or a portion of the perimeter of the second panel 208. As will be described herein, the light source 318 in combination with the structure of the second panel 208 is an edge lighting assembly that directs light into the second panel 208 such that the light is carried through the second panel 208 and emitted in a controlled manner, as will be discussed further herein. Light source 318 is connected to a second electrical connector 320. Second electrical connection 320 is connected to a power source and/or controller to allow light source 318 to be activated and deactivated to control the intensity of light source 318 and/or to control the color of light source 318. In implementations in which other active components are included in the second panel 208, other electrical connections may be provided to the second panel 208.

Fig. 4 is a diagram illustrating a first exemplary structure for the first panel 206. The first panel 206 is a laminated panel formed from a transparent or translucent layer or a layer capable of being transparent or translucent controlled by an active component, as will be described. In this implementation, first panel 206 includes, in order from top to bottom, first layer 422, first interlayer 423, second layer 424, second interlayer 425, and third layer 426, which first layer 422, first interlayer 423, second layer 424, second interlayer 425, and third layer 426 are bonded together in a lamination process that includes, for example, the application of heat and pressure.

The first layer 422 and the third layer 426 are transparent layers. The first layer 422 and the third layer 426 may be free of active components. As one example, the first layer 422 and the third layer 426 may be formed of silicate glass, such as soda lime glass. As another example, the first layer 422 and the third layer 426 may be formed of a transparent or translucent polymer or a transparent or translucent polycarbonate.

The second layer 424 incorporates variable light transmission technology. The second layer 424 can be controlled by control signals provided to the second layer 424 using the first electrical connections 316 to vary the degree of light transmission through the first panel 206. For example, the degree of light transmitted through the first panel 206 can be controlled by the voltage of the control signal delivered by the first electrical connection 316 to the second layer 424. The first electrical connection 316 may incorporate a transparent electrode, such as an Indium Tin Oxide (ITO) electrode, to allow control of the variable light transmission properties of the second layer 424.

The control signal may cause the second layer 424 to modify the current light transmittance characteristic such that, in response to the control signal, the second layer 424 is modified from having a first light transmittance value to having a second light transmittance value. Technologies that may be used to implement the second layer 424 include suspended particulate devices, electrochromic devices, polymer dispersed liquid crystal (PLDC) devices, guest-host liquid crystal (GHLC) devices, and switchable mirror devices. Some of these techniques are implemented in the form of a film, and in such implementations, the second layer 424 comprises a variable light transmission film on a transparent structure such as glass or polycarbonate. As one example, the second layer 424 may include a Polymer Dispersed Liquid Crystal (PDLC) film, which is a voltage controllable film comprising liquid crystals dispersed in a polymer material. The PDLC film is transparent when the first electrical connection 316 applies a voltage above a threshold value and changes between transparent and opaque in response to a voltage value below the threshold value. As another example, the second layer 424 may be a switchable mirror layer or comprise a switchable mirror film capable of changing state between a transparent or semi-transparent state and a reflective state. As an example, the state change may be induced by applying a voltage to at least a portion of the second layer 424 or ceasing to apply a voltage to at least a portion of the second layer 424. As one example, the second layer 424 may incorporate a transition metal hydride electrochromic device with a reflective hydride that changes state between transparent or semi-transparent and reflective upon application of a voltage. Other techniques may be used to implement the switchable mirror in the second layer 424.

First layer 422 is bonded to second layer 424 by a first interlayer 423 and second layer 424 is bonded to third layer 426 by a second interlayer 425. The first interlayer 423 and the second interlayer 425 may be transparent adhesive layers that bond adjacent panels together. Examples of materials that may be used as the first interlayer 423 and the second interlayer 425 include polyvinyl butyral (PVB) and Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA). Other materials suitable for use in first interlayer 423 and second interlayer 425 include thermosetting EVA, Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU), and Polyester (PE).

Fig. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of the second layer 424 including the first exemplary structure of variable light transmission for the first panel 206 of fig. 4. In the illustrated example, the second layer 424 includes a translucent or transparent material 524a, such as glass or plastic. The variable light-transmitting film 524b and the electrode layer 524c are disposed on one of an upper surface (as shown) or a lower surface of the transparent material 524 a. The variable light transmission film 524b may be a PDLC film, as previously described. The electrode layer 524c includes or is formed of a material capable of conducting electricity to change the variable light transmission characteristic of the variable light transmission film 524 b. The electrode layer 524c may include, for example, a transparent electrode, such as an Indium Tin Oxide (ITO) electrode.

Fig. 6 is a diagram illustrating a second exemplary structure for the first panel 206. The first panel 206 is a laminated panel formed from a transparent or translucent layer or a layer capable of being transparent or translucent controlled by an active component, as will be described. In this implementation, first panel 206 includes, in order from top to bottom, a first layer 622, a first interlayer 623, a second layer 624, a second interlayer 625, and a third layer 626, with first layer 622, first interlayer 623, second layer 624, second interlayer 625, and third layer 626 being bonded together in a lamination process that includes, for example, the application of heat and pressure.

The first layer 622 and the second layer 624 are transparent glass or plastic layers (e.g., polycarbonate), as described with respect to the first layer 422 and the third layer 426 of fig. 4. The third layer 626 is an active layer with variable light transmission properties, as described with respect to the second layer 424 of fig. 4. The third layer 626 can be controlled by control signals provided to the third layer 626 using the first electrical connections 316 to vary the degree of light transmission through the first panel 206. The embodiment of fig. 6 differs from the embodiment of fig. 4 in that the layer comprising the active component is the outer layer of the laminate structure.

The first layer 622 is bonded to the second layer 624 by a first interlayer 623 and the second layer 624 is bonded to the third layer 626 by a second interlayer 625. The first interlayer 623 and the second interlayer 625 are as described with respect to the first interlayer 423 and the second interlayer 425.

In addition to the examples given in fig. 4, 6, and 7, other configurations incorporating a variable light transmission transparent panel may be used for the first panel 206, including laminated panels and non-laminated panels.

Fig. 7 is a diagram illustrating a third exemplary structure for the first panel 206. In this example, the first panel 206 is a non-laminated panel that is transparent or translucent or can be transparent or translucent as controlled by the active component. The first panel 206 includes a first layer connected to the first electrical connections 316 and controlled by the first electrical connections 316.

The first layer 722 is an active layer with variable light transmission characteristics, as described with respect to the second layer 424 of fig. 4. The first layer 722 can be controlled by a control signal provided to the first layer 722 using the first electrical connections 316 to vary the degree of light transmission through the first panel 206. The embodiment of fig. 7 differs from the embodiment of fig. 4 in that the layer comprising the active component is not part of a laminated structure comprising a plurality of translucent or transparent glass and/or plastic layers.

Fig. 8 is a diagram illustrating a first exemplary structure for the second panel 208. The second panel 208 is a laminated panel formed from a transparent or translucent layer. In this implementation, the second panel 208 includes, in order from top to bottom, a first layer 822, a first interlayer 823, a second layer 824, a second interlayer 825, and a third layer 826, which are bonded together in a lamination process that includes, for example, the application of heat and pressure.

The first and

third layers

822, 826 are transparent glass or plastic layers (e.g., polycarbonate), as described with respect to the first and

third layers

422, 426 of fig. 4. The second layer 824 is an active layer that emits light.

The first layer 822 is bonded to the second layer 824 through a first interlayer 823 and the second layer 824 is bonded to the third layer 826 through a second interlayer 825. The first and

second interlayers

823, 825 are as described with respect to the first and

second interlayers

423, 425.

The second layer 824 is an edge-lit layer (e.g., a light guide plate) that receives light from an edge of the second panel 208. In the illustrated example, the light source 318 illuminates light into the edge of the second layer 824 of the second panel. For example, the light source may be a Light Emitting Diode (LED) or an optical fiber carrying light from a remote LED or laser. Other layers of the second panel 208 may be covered at their edges by a mask 819 so that light emitted by the light source 318 does not enter the other layers. Because the refractive index of the second layer 824 is different from the refractive index of adjacent layers, such as the first interlayer 823 and the second interlayer 825, light emitted by the light source 318 is carried through the second layer 824 by total or near total internal reflection. Features such as edges, trenches, etching, surface patterning, or particles may be formed or disposed in the second layer 824 to direct light out of the second layer 824 in a desired manner toward the third layer 826.

Fig. 9 is a diagram illustrating a second exemplary structure for the second panel 208. The second panel 208 is a laminated panel formed from a transparent or translucent layer. In this implementation, the second panel 208 includes, in order from top to bottom, a first layer 922, a first interlayer 923, a second layer 924, a second interlayer 925, and a third layer 926, the first layer 922, the first interlayer 923, the second layer 924, the second interlayer 925, and the third layer 926 being bonded together in a lamination process that includes, for example, the application of heat and pressure.

The first layer 922 and the second layer 924 are transparent glass or plastic layers (e.g., polycarbonate) as described with respect to the first layer 822 and the third layer 826 of fig. 8. The third layer 926 is an active layer that emits light.

The first layer 922 is bonded to the second layer 924 through a first interlayer 923, and the second layer 924 is bonded to a third layer 926 through a second interlayer 925. The first interlayer 923 and the second interlayer 925 are as described with respect to the first interlayer 823 and the second interlayer 825 of fig. 8.

The second layer 924 is an edge-lit layer that receives light from the edge of the second panel 208. In the illustrated example, the light source 318, which may be a Light Emitting Diode (LED), shines light into the edge of the second layer 924 of the second panel. Other layers of the second panel 208 may be covered at their edges by a mask 919 so that light emitted by the light source 318 does not enter the other layers. The third layer 926 is similar to the second layer 824 of fig. 8 and may be configured and implemented in the same manner. The embodiment of fig. 9 differs from the embodiment of fig. 8 in that the layer comprising the active component is the outer layer of the laminate structure.

Fig. 10 is a diagram illustrating a third exemplary structure for the second panel 208. In this example, the second panel 208 is a transparent or translucent non-laminated panel. The second panel 208 includes a first layer 1022 connected to the first electrical connections 316 and controlled by the first electrical connections 316.

The first layer 1022 is an active layer that emits light, as described with respect to the second layer 824 of fig. 8. The first layer 1022 may be an edge-lit layer that receives light from an edge of the second panel 208, such as from the light source 318, where the mask 1019 covers the light source 318 to prevent light emitted by the light source from entering the first layer 1022 or other structure rather than passing through the edge of the first layer 1022. The embodiment of fig. 10 differs from the embodiment of fig. 8 in that the layer comprising the active component is not part of a laminated structure comprising a plurality of translucent or transparent glass and/or plastic layers.

Fig. 11 is a diagram illustrating a fourth exemplary structure for the second panel 208. The second panel 208 is a laminated panel formed from a transparent or translucent layer. In this implementation, the second panel 208 includes, in order from top to bottom, a first layer 1122, a first interlayer 1123, a second layer 1124, a second interlayer 1125, and a third layer 1126, a third interlayer 1127, a fourth layer 1128, a fourth interlayer 1129, and a fifth layer 1130 that are bonded together in a lamination process that includes, for example, the application of heat and pressure.

The first layer 1122 and the fifth layer 1130 are transparent glass or plastic layers (e.g., polycarbonate) as described with respect to the first layer 822 and the third layer 826 of fig. 8. The second, third and

fourth layers

1124, 1126, 1128 are active layers having controllable properties that affect the transmission and/or emission of light.

The second layer 1124 is a switchable mirror layer that is capable of changing state between a transparent or semi-transparent state and a reflective state. As an example, the state change may be induced by applying a voltage to at least a portion of the second layer 1124 or stopping applying a voltage to at least a portion of the second layer 1124. As one example, the second layer 1124 can incorporate a transition metal hydride electrochromic device with a reflective hydride that changes state between transparent or semi-transparent and reflective upon application of a voltage. Other techniques can be used to implement the switchable mirrors in the second layer 1124.

The third layer 1126 is an active layer that emits light. For example, the second layer may be a transparent light-carrying layer, an edge-lit layer, a transparent or translucent OLED display device, or a transparent or translucent micro LED device.

The first layer 1122 is bonded to the second layer 1124 by a first interlayer 1123, the second layer 1124 is bonded to the third layer 1126 by a second interlayer 1125, the third layer 1126 is bonded to the fourth layer 1128 by a third interlayer 1127, and the fourth layer 1128 is bonded to the fifth layer 1130 by a fourth interlayer 1129. The first interlayer 1123, the second interlayer 1125, the third interlayer 1127, and the fourth interlayer 1129 are as described with respect to the first interlayer 823 and the second interlayer 825 of fig. 8.

It should be understood that the details of the various implementations herein may be combined in various ways. For example, the panel assembly 104 may be implemented using any of the exemplary implementations of the first panel 206 (e.g., as shown in fig. 4-7) and any of the exemplary implementations of the second panel 208 (e.g., as shown in fig. 8-11). An additional example of a controllable light emitting panel Structure that can be used as the second panel 208 can be found in U.S. patent application No. 15/366,686 entitled "Transparent Structure with Controlled Lighting" filed on 12/1 2015, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

Fig. 12 is an illustration showing a cross-sectional view of a panel assembly 1204, according to an alternative implementation. The panel assembly 1204 is similar to the panel assembly 104 except as noted herein. For example, the panel assembly 1204 may be incorporated into the assembly 100 in the manner described with respect to the panel assembly 104, including being connected to the frame 102.

The panel assembly 1204 includes a first panel 1206, a second panel 1208, a spacer 1212, a gap 1214, a first active component 1232, and a second active component 1234. First panel 1206 is positioned adjacent first side 1201a of panel assembly 1204 and second panel 1208 is positioned adjacent second side 1201b of panel assembly 1204. In a typical implementation, the exterior space is located on the first side 1201a and the interior space is located on the second side 1201 b.

The first panel 1206 and the second panel 1208 may each comprise a single glass or plastic layer, or may be a laminated structure comprising multiple layers that are joined together in a lamination process that includes, for example, the application of heat and pressure.

The spacer 1212 separates the first panel 1206 from the second panel 1208 to define a gap 1214 and may be positioned at an outer periphery of the panel assembly 1204 or may be positioned inward from the outer periphery of the panel assembly 1204. The gap 1214 may be evacuated or filled with a gas or gas mixture. The spacers 1212 may be configured such that they act as a sealing structure to seal the space within the gap 1214 from the exterior of the panel assembly 1204.

The first active component 1232 and the second active component 1234 are located in the gap 1214. The first electrical connector 1233 for the first active component 1232 and the second electrical connector 1235 for the second active component 1234 may extend out of the panel assembly 1204 for connection to a controller or other system. The first active component 1232 and the second active component 1234 each have controllable characteristics. The first active component 1232 and the second active component 1234 may each be, for example, a variable light transmission device or a lighting device. Examples of variable light transmission devices include suspended particulate devices, electrochromic devices, polymer dispersed liquid crystal devices, and guest-host liquid crystal devices. Examples of variable illumination devices include edge-lit panels (e.g., light guide plates), LED panels, micro-LED panels, and display panels (e.g., translucent OLED panels).

A first active component 1232 is mounted on the lower surface of the first panel 1206 (facing the gap 1214). As one example, the first active component 1232 may be connected to the first panel 1206 by a conventional adhesive, such as a Pressure Sensitive Adhesive (PSA). The first active component 1232 is not part of the laminate structure of the first panel 1206. In implementations in which the first panel 1206 is laminated, a lamination process (e.g., including applying heat and pressure to bond the layers using an interlayer) is performed and the first active component 1232 is then mounted to the first panel 1206.

The second active component 1234 is mounted on the upper surface of the second panel 1208 (facing the gap 1214). For example, the second active component 1234 may be attached to the second panel 1208 by a conventional adhesive. The second active component 1234 is not part of the laminate structure of the second panel 1208. In implementations in which the second panel 1208 is laminated, a lamination process (e.g., including applying heat and pressure to bond the layers using an interlayer) is performed and then the second active component 1234 is mounted to the first panel 1206.

Although the example shown in fig. 12 includes both the first active component 1232 and the second active component 1234, it should be understood that the panel assembly 1204 may include only one of the first active component 1232 or the second active component 1234 and omit the other.

Fig. 13 is an illustration showing a cross-sectional view of a panel assembly 1304 according to an alternative implementation. The panel assembly 1304 is similar to the panel assembly 104 except as noted herein. For example, the panel assembly 1304 may be incorporated into the assembly 100 in the manner described with respect to the panel assembly 104, including being connected to the frame 102.

The panel assembly 1304 includes a first panel 1306, a second panel 1308, a spacer 1312, a gap 1314, and a first active component 1332. The first panel 1306 is positioned adjacent the first side 1301a of the panel assembly 1304 and the second panel 1308 is positioned adjacent the second side 1301b of the panel assembly 1304. In a typical implementation, the exterior space is located on the first side 1301a and the interior space is located on the second side 1301 b.

The first panel 1306 and the second panel 1308 can each comprise a single glass or plastic layer, or can be a laminated structure comprising multiple layers that are joined together in a lamination process that includes, for example, the application of heat and pressure.

The spacer 1312 separates the first panel 1306 from the second panel 1308 to define a gap 1314, and may be positioned at the outer periphery of the panel assembly 1304, or may be positioned inward from the outer periphery of the panel assembly 1304. The gap 1314 may be evacuated or filled with a gas or gas mixture. The spacers 1312 may be configured such that they act as a sealing structure to seal the space within the gap 1314 from the exterior of the panel assembly 1304.

A first active feature 1332 is located in the gap 1314. A first electrical connector 1333 for the first active component 1332 may extend out of the panel assembly 1304 for connection to a controller or other system. The first active component 1332 has controllable characteristics. The first active component 1332 may be, for example, a variable light transmission device or an illumination device. Examples of variable light transmission devices include suspended particulate devices, electrochromic devices, polymer dispersed liquid crystal devices, and guest-host liquid crystal devices. Examples of variable illumination devices include edge-lit panels (e.g., light guide plates), LED panels, micro-LED panels, and display panels (e.g., translucent OLED panels).

The first active component 1332 is mounted in the gap 1314 between the first 1306 and second 1308 panels. The first active feature 1332 may be spaced apart from the first panel 1306 and the second panel 1308. In the illustrated example, the spacer 1312 includes a support structure, such as a trench 1313, that engages the first active component 1332 and suspends it within the gap 1314. Alternatively, other support structures and/or spacers may be used to suspend the first active component 1332 in the gap 1314.

Although the example shown in fig. 13 includes a first active component 1332 and other active components are not shown, it is understood that additional active components (e.g., a second active component) may be disposed in the gap 1314 and similarly supported.

Fig. 14 is an illustration showing a cross-sectional view of a panel assembly 1404 according to an alternative implementation. The panel assembly 1404 is similar to the panel assembly 1304, except as noted herein. The panel assembly 1404 includes a first panel 1406, a second panel 1408, spacers 1412, gaps 1414, lighting devices 1418, a first active component 1432, which in the illustrated example is an edge-lit panel (e.g., a light guide plate), and a first electrical connector 1433 for the first active component 1432. A first panel 1406 is positioned adjacent a first side 1401a of the panel assembly 1404 and a second panel 1408 is positioned adjacent a second side 1401b of the panel assembly 1404. In a typical implementation, the exterior space is located on the first side 1401a and the interior space is located on the second side 1401 b.

The spacers 1412 separate the first panel 1406 from the second panel 1408 to define a gap 1414 and may be positioned at the outer periphery of the panel assembly 1404 or may be positioned inward from the outer periphery of the panel assembly 1404. The first active component 1432 extends through or between the spacers 1412, such that the first active component 1432 is suspended between the first panel 1406 and the second panel 1408. An illumination device 1418, such as an LED or remote illumination fiber, is positioned outside of the spacer 1412. The outer edge of the first active component 1432 is positioned outward from the outer edge of the first panel 1406 and/or the second panel 1408, and thus may be located outside of the gap 1414.

In an alternative implementation, the first active component 1432 can be adjacent to one of the first panel 1406 or the second panel 1408 (e.g., mounted with an adhesive), with the spacers 1412 located on opposite sides of the first active component 1432 to define the gap 1414.

Fig. 15A is an illustration showing a cross-sectional view of a frame 1502 and a panel assembly 1504 according to an alternative implementation. Panel assembly 1504 is similar to panel assembly 1304, except as noted herein. The panel assembly 1504 includes a first panel 1506, a second panel 1508, spacers 1512, gaps 1514, lighting devices 1518, and a first active component 1532, a first electrical connector 1533, a second active component 1534 (such as a variable light transmission device), and a second electrical connector 1535, which in the example shown is an edge-lit panel (e.g., a light guide plate). First panel 1506 is positioned adjacent to first side 1501a of panel assembly 1504 and second panel 1508 is positioned adjacent to second side 1501b of panel assembly 1504. In a typical implementation, the exterior space is located on the first side 1501a and the interior space is located on the second side 1501 b.

Spacers 1512 separate first panel 1506 from second panel 1508 to define gap 1514 and may be positioned at an outer perimeter of one of first panel 1506 or second panel 1508 or may be positioned inwardly. In the example shown, the first active component 1532 extends through the spacer 1512 and is located between the spacer 1512 and the second panel 1508. Illumination devices 1518 (such as LEDs or remote illumination fibers) are positioned outwardly from the spacer 1512 and thus may be located outside of the gap 1514. A second active component 1534 is mounted (e.g., by adhesive) to a lower surface of the first panel 1506. A second active component 1534 is connected to a second electrical connector 1535 that extends through the spacer 1512 and may incorporate bus bars (busbars) mounted to or formed on the lower surface of the first panel 1506.

The outer edges of the first panel 1506 extend further outward than the second panel 1508 and the first active component 1532. At its outer edge, first panel 1506 is supported by frame 1502, such as by first shoulder 1503a, and may be engaged with first shoulder 1503a by lateral seal 1536a and/or vertical seal 1536 b. The outer edge of the second panel 1508 may be positioned inward relative to the second panel 1508 and the first active component 1532, and may be supported by the second shoulder 1503b of the frame 1502 and the vertical seal 1536 c. In some implementations, the second shoulder 1503b is omitted and the panel assembly 1504 hangs from the first shoulder 1503 a.

The illumination devices 1518 may be disposed in an open area defined between the frame 1502 and the panel assembly 1504 below the first and

second shoulders

1503a, 1503 b. An encapsulating material (not shown) may be disposed on the outer perimeter of panel assembly 1504.

Alternatively, the first active component 1532 may be in contact (e.g., bonded by an adhesive) with the lower surface of the first panel 1506 or the upper surface of the second panel 1508, with the spacers 1512 being on opposite sides of the first active component 1532 so as to define the gap 1514.

Fig. 15B is an illustration showing a cross-sectional view of frame 1502 and panel assembly 1504 according to an alternative implementation, in which frame 1502 omits second shoulder 1503B, and panel assembly 1504 is instead supported only or primarily by supporting first panel 1506 using first shoulder 1503 a.

Fig. 16 is a block diagram showing a lighting system 1640. The lighting system 1640 may include a controller 1642, user interface devices 1644, lighting devices 1646, and variable light transmission devices 1648. The controller 1642 coordinates the operation of the various components of the lighting system 1640 by being in electronic communication (i.e., wired or wireless communication) with the user interface device 1644, the lighting device 1646, and the variable light transmission device 1648. The controller 1642 may receive information (e.g., signals and/or data) from the user interface device 1644 and/or from other components of the lighting system 1640. The lighting system 1640 may be used in conjunction with and include components of the assembly 100.

The user interface device 1644 allows a user to modify operational aspects of the lighting system 1640 and to set desired states of the lighting system 1640. The user interface device 1644 may allow for modification of the operating parameters of the illumination device 1646 and the variable light transmission device 1648.

The lighting device 1646 may be an electric lighting device capable of being controlled by the controller 1642. For example, the controller may output a signal to turn the illumination device 1646 on, turn the illumination device 1646 off, change the intensity of the illumination device 1646, or change the color of the illumination device 1646.

The variable light transmission device 1648 utilizes variable light transmission techniques to transmit light through a structure that otherwise allows light transmission, such as a glass panel. The variable light transmission device 1648 may be operated by a control signal, such as a signal from a controller 1642. The control signal may cause the variable transmission device 1648 to modify the current transmission characteristic, e.g., from a first transmission value to have a second transmission value different from the first transmission value, or from a light transmitting state to a light reflecting (mirror) state. Technologies that can be used to implement the variable light transmission device 1648 include suspended particulate devices, electrochromic devices, polymer dispersed liquid crystal devices, and guest-host liquid crystal devices.

Fig. 17 illustrates an example of a hardware configuration of a controller 1750 that may be used to implement the controller 1642 and/or other portions of the lighting system 1640. In the illustrated example, the controller 1750 includes a processor 1752, a memory 1754, a storage device 1756, one or more input devices 1758, and one or more output devices 1760. These components may be interconnected by hardware, such as a bus 1762 that allows communication between the components. The processor 1752 may be a conventional device such as a central processing unit and is operable to execute computer program instructions and perform operations described by the computer program instructions. The memory 1754 may be a volatile, high-speed, short-term information storage device such as a random access memory module. Storage device 1756 may be a non-volatile information storage device, such as a hard disk or solid state drive. Input device 1758 may comprise any type of human interface such as a button, switch, keyboard, mouse, touch screen input device, gesture input device, or audio input device. Output device 1760 may comprise any type of device operable to provide an indication to a user regarding the operational status, such as a display screen or audio output.

Claims

1. A light transmitting panel assembly comprising:

a first panel;

a second panel;

a gap between the first panel and the second panel; and

a first active component located in the gap, the first active component having controllable light transmission characteristics.

2. The light transmissive panel assembly of claim 1, wherein the first active component is attached to the first panel by an adhesive.

3. The light transmissive panel assembly of claim 1, comprising:

a spacer separating the first active component from the first panel and the first active component from the second panel.

4. The light transmissive panel assembly of claim 3, wherein the spacer comprises a support structure suspending the first active component within the gap.

5. The light transmissive panel assembly of claim 1, further comprising:

a second active component located in the gap, the second active component having a controllable light emission characteristic.

6. The light transmissive panel assembly of claim 5, wherein the first active component is adjacent the first panel, the second active component is adjacent the second panel, and the first active component is spaced apart from the second panel.

7. The light transmissive panel assembly of claim 5, wherein:

the first panel has a first surface adjacent to the external space and a second surface,

the second panel has a first surface and a second surface adjacent the interior space,

the first active component is mounted to the second surface of the first panel, and

the second active component is mounted to the first surface of the second panel.

8. The light-transmissive panel assembly of one of claims 1-7, wherein the first active component is changeable between a translucent state and an opaque state.

9. The light-transmissive panel assembly of one of claims 1-7, wherein the first active component is changeable between a translucent state and a reflective state.

10. The light transmissive panel assembly of one of claims 5-9, wherein the second active component is an edge-lit glass panel.

11. The light transmitting panel assembly of claim 10, wherein the edge-lit glass panel comprises a lighting device.

12. The light transmissive panel assembly of claim 11, further comprising:

a spacer positioned between the first panel and the second panel to space the first panel from the second panel to define the gap, wherein the illumination device is positioned outwardly relative to the spacer.

13. The light transmissive panel assembly of claim 12, further comprising:

a frame, wherein an outer edge of the first panel extends outwardly relative to the lighting device and the outer edge of the first panel is supported by the frame.

14. The light transmissive panel assembly of claim 5, wherein:

the first panel is a laminated structure, and

the second panel is a laminate structure.

15. The light transmissive panel assembly of claim 14, wherein:

the first active component is connected to the first panel by an adhesive, and

the second active component is attached to the second panel by an adhesive.