JP3887655B1 - Light control device for vehicle window glass - Google Patents

Abstract

For example, it is possible to switch a window to an opaque state without removing a key in a specific place other than on a public road while ensuring safety during stopping on the public road.
Only when the position determining means 11 determines that the location of the vehicle 100 belongs to a specific area and the speed determining means 12 determines that the moving speed of the vehicle 100 is zero, the adjusting means 13 Thus, the transmittance of the light control glass 110 is adjusted to be less than a predetermined value.
[Selection] Figure 1

Description

  The present invention relates to a technique for controlling the transparency (transmittance of visible light) of a window glass for a vehicle such as an automobile.

  Generally, as a vehicle, for example, a window glass of an automobile, a transparent glass (having a visible light transmittance of a predetermined value or more) is used in order to maintain the driver's field of view and ensure safety. However, if the window glass is transparent, the sun gets into the car and the car gets hot, or someone else looks into the car and can't keep privacy and security. For this reason, a film of black or the like that makes the window glass opaque (a dark color with low visible light transmittance) is applied to the window glass.

  However, the window glass that is to be attached to the film, which reduces the transmittance of visible light, is restricted by the security standards for road transport vehicles described later, and the film cannot be attached to the front window or the side window next to the driver's seat. In addition, it is impossible to reliably suppress an increase in the temperature inside the vehicle or to securely protect privacy and security.

  Therefore, for example, in Patent Document 1 described below, a liquid crystal film is attached to each window of an automobile, and voltage supply to the liquid crystal film is controlled to switch between transparent and opaque windows. More specifically, in Patent Document 1 below, when the car is parked and the key is removed, the voltage application to the liquid crystal film is stopped, the liquid crystal film, that is, each window is darkened, and the sun goes into the car. It is disclosed that when a key is inserted into the key insertion slot to drive a car, a voltage is applied to the liquid crystal film to make the liquid crystal film, that is, each window transparent, while preventing the camera from being viewed by others. ing.

  Further, for example, in Patent Document 2 described below, in a car, by adjusting the light control glass that can be adjusted to an arbitrary light transmittance and an ignition key switch device, when the key is removed, the window automatically opens. It is disclosed that the interior of a vehicle cannot be visually recognized by reducing the light transmittance. Furthermore, in the following Patent Document 2, by using a light control glass sandwiched with an organic electroluminescence element, the interior of the vehicle is automatically made invisible when the key is removed in the same manner as described above. When an abnormality such as theft or accident is detected in the car, the abnormality is notified by performing a light emitting display toward the outside with an organic electroluminescence element, or the organic light control glass that forms the rear window during traveling It is disclosed that it is possible to display an image such as an advertisement by an electroluminescence element.

Regarding the front window and side window of the car (side part of the driver's seat), the following regulations are stipulated in the safety standard for road transport vehicles (Article 29, Paragraph 4).
Signs, posters, etc. other than the following shall not be affixed and painted on the front glass and side glass (excluding the part behind the driver's seat).
1. 1. Designated by the Minister of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism or the Director of Regional Transportation Bureau 2. Temporary inspection pass mark Inspection mark4. 4. Illegal parking stickers and failure stickers as stipulated in the Road Traffic Law 5. Paste-type rear-view mirror in the passenger compartment It is transparent in the state of being pasted or painted, and can ensure a transmittance of visible light of 70% or more in a necessary field of view in order for the driver to check traffic conditions.

Of these items 1 to 6, the item 6 is particularly important, and this item 6 is a rule for preventing the driver's view from being obstructed during traveling. The visible light transmittance in the side window next to the passenger seat is prohibited from being less than 70%.
Therefore, in the techniques disclosed in Patent Documents 1 and 2, all the windows (liquid crystal film and light control glass) of the automobile are basically switched to an opaque state only when the key is removed. Yes. This prevents the visible light transmittance in the window from being less than 70% during traveling.
JP-A-6-72150 JP 2004-138895 A

By the way, in the case of having a meal or sleeping in the vehicle while the vehicle is stopped, the window is often switched to an opaque state in order to protect privacy.
However, in the configuration that cannot be switched to the opaque state unless the key is removed as in the techniques disclosed in Patent Documents 1 and 2, the window is opened while the engine is started and the air conditioner is operated during meals and sleep in the vehicle. Cannot switch to an opaque state.

  On the other hand, in the techniques disclosed in Patent Documents 1 and 2, even on public roads, if the vehicle is stopped and the key is removed, all windows including the front window and the side window next to the driver's seat are opaque. Can be switched to. However, according to the above item 6 of the safety standard, if the vehicle is stopped on a public road even when the vehicle is not running, the driver can check the front window and the driver in order to check the traffic situation. Regarding the side window next to the seat, it is considered necessary to secure a visible light transmittance of 70% or more in the required field of view. Therefore, as in the techniques disclosed in Patent Documents 1 and 2, it is stipulated in the above safety standards that all windows can be switched to an opaque state even on public roads by removing the key. In light of this, it is considered undesirable.

  The present invention was devised in view of such a situation. For example, while securing safety while stopping on a public road, the key is not removed when the vehicle is stopped at a specific place other than on the public road. However, the purpose is to allow the window to be switched to an opaque state.

  In order to achieve the above object, a vehicle window glass light control device according to the present invention (Claim 1) is provided in a vehicle provided with a light control glass capable of adjusting the transmittance of visible light as a window glass. A means for controlling the transmittance of the light glass, the position detecting means for detecting the position of the vehicle, the speed detecting means for detecting the moving speed of the vehicle, and the vehicle detected by the position detecting means; A position determination means for determining whether or not the position of the vehicle belongs to a specific area designated in advance, and a speed determination for determining whether or not the moving speed of the vehicle detected by the speed detection means is zero And the position determining means determine that the location of the vehicle belongs to the specific area, and the speed determining means determines that the moving speed of the vehicle is zero. If it is, it is characterized in that it is configured to include an adjusting means for adjusting the transmittance of the light control glass below a predetermined value.

In the dimming control device described above, when the position determination unit determines that the location of the vehicle does not belong to the specific area, or the speed determination unit determines that the moving speed of the vehicle is not zero. When it is, the adjusting means adjusts the transmittance of the light control glass to the predetermined value or more (Claim 2).

  Here, as a first example of the light control glass, a liquid crystal formed by sandwiching a liquid crystal layer that blocks visible light by changing the orientation of liquid crystal molecules by applying a predetermined voltage between two transparent electrodes. Those containing a film are used. In this case, the adjustment means adjusts the transmittance of the light control glass to be less than the predetermined value by applying the predetermined voltage to the two transparent electrodes to change the orientation of the liquid crystal molecules. (Claim 3). Furthermore, the light control glass includes an organic electroluminescence element layer formed by sandwiching a transparent light emitting layer that emits light when a predetermined voltage is applied between two transparent electrodes, and the light emitting layer includes a light emitting layer. Are arranged in a matrix, and by controlling the light emission state of each light emitter, the organic electroluminescence element layer can have any color or any color. Display control means for executing display of the image may be further provided (claim 4).

  As a second example of the light control glass, an organic electroluminescence element layer formed by inserting a transparent light emitting layer that emits light by applying a predetermined voltage between two transparent electrodes, and a specific light emitted from the light emitting layer What contains the photochromic glass layer colored in response to the light of a wavelength is used. In this case, the adjusting means adjusts the transmittance of the light control glass to be less than the predetermined value by causing the light emitting layer to emit light of the specific wavelength and coloring the photochromic glass layer. ). In addition, the light emitting layer is configured by arranging light emitters that emit light of three primary colors, red, green, and blue, in a matrix, and controlling the light emission state of each light emitter, thereby the organic electroluminescence. The element layer may further include display control means for executing arbitrary color development or arbitrary image display.

  As a third example of the light control glass, one including an organic electroluminescence element layer formed by sandwiching a transparent light emitting layer that emits light by applying a predetermined voltage between two transparent electrodes is used. In this case, the adjusting means adjusts the transmittance of the light control glass to be less than the predetermined value by causing the light emitting layer to emit light of a predetermined color (Claim 7). In addition, the light emitting layer is configured by arranging light emitters that emit light of three primary colors, red, green, and blue, in a matrix, and controlling the light emission state of each light emitter, thereby the organic electroluminescence. The element layer may further include display control means for executing arbitrary color development or display of an arbitrary image (claim 8).

  And the said display control means may perform the display interlocked with the brake operation of the said vehicle in the said organic electroluminescent element layer of the said light control glass used as a rear window glass during the movement of the said vehicle ( (9) The display control means executes display in conjunction with the operation of the vehicle direction indicator on the organic electroluminescence element layer of the light control glass used as a rear window glass during the movement of the vehicle. (Claim 9).

When the vehicle is an automobile, the specific area may be an area other than a public road on which the automobile can travel (Claim 10), and the position detecting means may be a GPS (Global Positioning System). It may be used to detect the location of the vehicle.
Further, the adjustment means is a light adjustment glass used as a window glass at least in front and on both sides of the driver of the vehicle, and the transmittance is to be adjusted according to the determination result by the position determination means and the speed determination means. (Especially when the vehicle is an automated person), at this time, for the transmittance of the light control glass used as a window glass other than the window glass in front and both sides of the driver of the vehicle, Regardless of the determination results by the speed determination means and the position determination means, the adjustment means may further comprise a switching means for selectively switching to either the predetermined value or less than the predetermined value. .

  Furthermore, it further comprises lightness detection means for detecting the lightness outside the vehicle, and the adjusting means is configured to adjust the transmittance of the light control glass according to the lightness detected by the lightness detection means. Also good.

  According to the dimming control device for a vehicle window glass of the present invention described above, the dimming control is performed only when it is determined that the location of the vehicle belongs to the specific area and the moving speed of the vehicle is zero. While the transmittance of the light glass is adjusted to be less than a predetermined value, if it is determined that the location of the vehicle does not belong to a specific area, or if it is determined that the moving speed of the vehicle is not zero, the light control glass Is adjusted to a predetermined value or more.

  Therefore, when a vehicle or the like as a vehicle is stopped on a public road or moving on a public road, for example, the transmittance of the window glass (light control glass) cannot be switched below a predetermined value. Since the window glass cannot be switched to an opaque state, safety during stopping on public roads and safety during movement in areas other than public roads can be ensured.

  While securing safety in this way, in specific places other than on public roads, the window glass (light control glass) transmittance can be switched below a predetermined value without removing the key if it is stopped. Can be switched to an opaque state, so that an increase in the temperature inside the vehicle during a stop can be reliably suppressed, and privacy and security can be reliably protected. Further, since it is not necessary to remove the key, the window glass can be switched to an opaque state while starting the engine and operating the air conditioner or the like when eating or sleeping in the vehicle.

Here, when a liquid crystal film including a liquid crystal film is used, the transmittance of the light control glass can be switched to a value less than the predetermined value by simply applying a predetermined voltage between the two transparent electrodes. The window glass can be made opaque.
When a light control glass containing an organic electroluminescence element layer and a photochromic glass layer is used, it is extremely easy to transmit light of the light control glass simply by causing the light emission layer of the organic electroluminescence element layer to emit light of a specific wavelength. The window glass can be made opaque by switching the rate below a predetermined value. At this time, since the photochromic glass layer is colored by the light emitted from the organic electroluminescence element layer, the transmittance is sufficiently changed and reduced, while light other than light having a wavelength for coloring the photochromic glass layer is emitted from the organic electroluminescence. When the element layer emits light, the light control glass including the organic electroluminescence element layer can function as a display device for the outside as described later.

  When a light control glass containing only an organic electroluminescence element layer is used, the transmittance of the light control glass can be determined easily by simply emitting light of a predetermined color to the light emitting layer of the organic electroluminescence element layer. The window glass can be made opaque by switching below the value. Also in this case, the light control glass including the organic electroluminescence element layer can be functioned as a display device for the outside as described later.

In addition, the light emitting layer in the organic electroluminescence element layer is configured by arranging light emitters that emit red, green, and blue, which are the three primary colors of light, in a matrix, and by controlling the light emission state of each light emitter. In the organic electroluminescence element layer, it becomes possible to perform arbitrary color development and arbitrary image display, and the window glass can be used as a display device for the outside.

For example, by setting the color of all window glasses to the same color as the exterior of the vehicle while the vehicle is stopped, the appearance is stylish and extremely conspicuous, so a malicious third party can engage in illegal activities such as theft. It will be difficult to do, and will greatly contribute to the prevention of illegal activities against the vehicle.
In addition, in the organic electroluminescence element layer of the light control glass used as the rear window glass during the movement of the vehicle, by executing the display linked to the vehicle brake operation and the display linked to the operation of the vehicle direction indicator, The large display using the rear window glass as well as the brake lamps and turn signals makes it possible to clearly communicate the driver's intention of braking and moving direction to the driver of the vehicle behind, and safety during traveling Can increase the sex.

In recent years, by using the GPS function of a car navigation system that is generally installed in automobiles and the like, it is possible to detect the location of a vehicle very easily without newly providing special position detection means. .
Further, according to the road transport vehicle safety standard (Article 29, Paragraph 4), at least the window glass in front and both sides of the driver is adjusted for transmittance according to the determination results of the position determination means and the speed determination means. The transmittance of the light control glass used as the window glass other than these target window glasses may be less than a predetermined value regardless of whether the vehicle is stopped / moving or regardless of the position of the vehicle. By being configured to be selectively switchable to any one of the above, it is possible to switch between transparent / opaque at any time for the window glass other than the target window glass depending on the will of the vehicle occupant. Can be increased.

  In addition, by adjusting the transmittance of the light control glass according to the brightness of the outside of the vehicle, when the outside of the vehicle is dark, the transmittance can be increased to ensure visibility, while when the outside of the vehicle is extremely bright Can reduce the glare experienced by the driver and the occupant by lowering the transmittance, so that the driver can surely see the situation outside the vehicle and can improve safety.

Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.
[1] Configuration of Dimming Control Device of this Embodiment FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a dimming control device for a vehicle window glass as an embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. The light control device 1 according to the embodiment includes a light control glass 110 that can adjust the transmittance of visible light as window glasses 111 to 116, and the light transmittance of each light control glass 110 in an automobile (vehicle, vehicle) 100. Is to control.

  An automobile 100 as a vehicle in the present embodiment is a general four-door type passenger car, and includes six window glasses 111 to 116 (front window glass 111, right front side window glass 112, left front side window glass 113, right rear side). A window glass 114, a left rear side window glass 115, and a rear window glass 116).

As the light control glass 110 constituting these window glasses 111 to 116, the light control glass 110A as shown in FIG. 2, the light control glass 110B as shown in FIG. 3, or the light control glass as shown in FIG. Any of the glasses 110C can be used.
Here, “light control glass” means that the visible light transmittance and coloring of the glass itself can be freely adjusted, so that the separated side of the glass can be visually recognized without using a curtain or a shutter. It is a glass that can be made impossible (opaque state). The “glass” of the “light control glass” here does not refer to a material called glass mainly composed of silicon dioxide, but can be used for a window or the like, and is generally a plate-like shape that is generally colorless and transparent. "Glass" in a broad sense that refers to things such as plastics.

FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing the structure of a light control glass (first example) 110A. As shown in FIG. 2, the light control glass 110A is configured to be dimmable using liquid crystals. There is a structure that is normally transparent, but has a structure in which light is blocked by changing the orientation of liquid crystal molecules by applying a voltage.
More specifically, the light control glass 110 </ b> A is configured by sandwiching an organic electroluminescence element layer 140 between two glass plates (transparent plates) 120 and 130. Hereinafter, “electroluminescence” may be abbreviated as “EL”.

  The organic EL element layer 140 is configured by sandwiching the organic EL layer 143 between the anode transparent electrode 141 and the cathode transparent electrode 142. The organic EL layer 143 emits light by applying a voltage between the anode transparent electrode 141 and the cathode transparent electrode 142. The organic EL layer 143 is formed by laminating three layers of a hole transport layer 144, a light emitting layer 145 and an electron transport layer 146 in order from the anode side, and between the anode transparent electrode 141 and the cathode transparent electrode 142. When voltage is applied, emitted light is emitted from the light emitting layer 146 toward the anode.

  The light-emitting layer 146 is configured by regularly arranging light emitters that emit red (R), green (G), and blue (B), which are the three primary colors of light, in a matrix. The configuration allows the light control glass 110A to function as a color display device. In the light control glass 110A, the display state by the organic EL element layer 140 (the light emission state of the three primary color light emitters) is controlled by the display control means 14 to be described later, and not only can display the same color on the entire surface. Any image can be displayed and various information can be notified to the outside.

  In the present embodiment, the organic EL layer 143 includes three layers, ie, a hole transport layer 144, a light emitting layer 145, and an electron transport layer 146. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and a single layer is used. Or an organic EL layer, such as a layer composed of two layers of a hole transport layer and a light emitting layer.

  And in light control glass 110A, in order to adjust the transmittance | permeability of visible light, the liquid crystal film 150 is stuck on the vehicle interior side. Even if the liquid crystal film 150 is affixed to the vehicle interior side of the light control glass 110A, that is, the glass plate 130, light control (change / adjustment of visible light transmittance; described later) by the liquid crystal film 150 is performed. The display (described later) on the outside (outside the passenger compartment) by the layer 140 is not blocked by the liquid crystal film 150.

  The liquid crystal film 150 is configured by sandwiching transparent electrodes 153 and 154 and a liquid crystal layer (liquid crystal molecules) 155 between two transparent thin films 151 and 152. The liquid crystal layer 155 is sandwiched between the transparent electrodes 153 and 154. Then, by applying a predetermined voltage between the transparent electrodes 153 and 154, visible light is blocked by changing the orientation of liquid crystal molecules in the liquid crystal layer 155.

That is, the liquid crystal film 150, that is, the light control glass 110A is in a transparent state (a visible light transmittance is 70% or more which is a predetermined value) without applying a voltage, but becomes opaque when a predetermined voltage is applied. (A state where the visible light transmittance is less than 70%, which is a predetermined value). The voltage applied to the liquid crystal film 150 is adjusted and controlled by the adjusting means 13 described later.

  As described above, by providing the organic EL element layer 140 and the liquid crystal film 150 in one dimming glass 110A, the organic EL element layer 140 functions as a color display device, and the general dimming by the liquid crystal film 150 is performed. Both glass functions can be realized. If the light control glass 110A is not intended for color display, it is not necessary to provide all three color light emitters of RGB.

  FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing the structure of the light control glass (second example) 110B. As shown in FIG. 3, the light control glass 110B is configured to be dimmable using a photochromic method. 2, the light control glass 110B has a photochromic glass layer 160 in place of the liquid crystal film 150 of the light control glass 110A. This photochromic glass layer 160 uses a substance that is colored by irradiating light of a specific wavelength, and is affixed to the outside of the light control glass 110B, that is, the glass plate 120. In FIG. 3, the same reference numerals as those already described indicate the same or substantially the same parts, and the description thereof will be omitted.

  More specifically, in the light control glass 110B, in order to adjust the transmittance of visible light, the photochromic glass layer 160 having a function of coloring the outside of the anode-side glass plate 120 by irradiation with light of a specific wavelength. Is provided. The photochromic glass layer 160, that is, the light control glass 110B is normally in a transparent state (a visible light transmittance of 70% or more, which is a predetermined value), but the organic EL layer 143 (light emitting layer 145) When light having a specific wavelength is emitted, it is switched to a colored and opaque state (a state where the visible light transmittance is less than a predetermined value of 70%). Instruction and control for causing the organic EL layer 143 (light emitting layer 145) to emit light having the specific wavelength so as to color the photochromic glass layer 160 is performed by the adjusting means 13 described later.

  At this time, in the light control glass 110B, the photochromic glass layer 160 is colored by specific ultraviolet light, and the light emitting layer 145 of the organic EL element layer 140 is red (R), green (G), blue (B). It is assumed that the three primary colors of light and four types of light emitters emitting the specific ultraviolet light are regularly arranged in a matrix. In this case, the light emission state of the ultraviolet light emitter is controlled by the adjusting means 13 described later, while the display state by the organic EL element layer 140 (light emission state of the three primary color light emitters) is the same as that of the light control glass 110A. Similarly, it is controlled by the display control means 14 to be described later, and not only can the same color display be performed on the entire surface, but also an arbitrary image can be displayed and various information can be notified to the outside. Yes.

  As described above, by providing the organic EL element layer 140 and the photochromic glass layer 160 in one light control glass 110B, the organic EL element layer 140 (for ultraviolet light) functions as a color display device. It is possible to realize both of the function as a light control glass by the cooperative operation of the light emitter and the photochromic glass layer 160. If the light control glass 110B is not intended for color display, it is not necessary to provide all of the three RGB light emitters, and the light for coloring the photochromic glass layer 160 is not limited to ultraviolet light. Infrared light or light having a wavelength different from that of display light during monochromatic display may be used, and light having a wavelength used when used as a display device may be used.

FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing the structure of the light control glass (third example) 110C. As shown in FIG. 4, the light control glass 110C includes the liquid crystal film 150 of the light control glass 110A shown in FIG. It has a configuration equivalent to that obtained by removing the photochromic glass layer 160 of the light control glass 110B shown in FIG. Since the photochromic glass layer 160 is not provided, naturally, the ultraviolet light emitter in the organic EL element layer 140 described above for the light control glass 110B is also unnecessary. In FIG. 4, the same reference numerals as those already described indicate the same or substantially the same parts, and the description thereof is omitted.

  More specifically, in the light control glass 110C, the organic EL element layer 140 functions not only to perform color display but also to adjust the transmittance of visible light. That is, the organic EL element layer 140, that is, the light control glass 110C is normally in a transparent state (a visible light transmittance of 70% or more which is a predetermined value), but the organic EL layer 143 (light emitting layer 145). When a color display is performed by emitting light, the light can be switched to an opaque state (a state in which the visible light transmittance is less than a predetermined value of 70%).

  At this time, the light emission control of the organic EL layer 143 for the purpose of making the light control glass 110C opaque is performed by the adjusting means 13 described later, while the organic light control for the color control glass 110C is intended for performing color display. The light emission control of the EL layer 143 is performed by a display control unit 14 described later. Also in the light control glass 110C, the display state by the organic EL element layer 140 (the light emission state of the three primary color light emitters) is controlled by the display control means 14 described later, as in the light control glasses 110A and 110B, and is entirely applied. In addition to being able to display the same color, it is possible to display an arbitrary image and notify various information to the outside.

  As described above, by providing the organic EL element layer 140 in one dimming glass 110C, it is possible to realize both a function as a color display device and a function as a dimming glass. If the light control glass 110C is not intended for color display, it is not necessary to provide all of the three color light emitters of RGB.

  In the automobile 100 of this embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the drive of an engine (not shown) is transmitted to a dynamo (not shown) and power is generated by the dynamo, and the electric power is the same as that of a normal battery and this embodiment. It accumulates in a dedicated battery for the dimming control device 1 (both not shown). Here, the normal battery is a power source for operating an engine spark plug and various accessories, and the dedicated battery is a dedicated power source for operating the light control glass 110 according to the present embodiment. In this way, by separating the power source for operating other equipment and the power source for operating the light control glass 110, the light control glass 110 consumes power when the engine is not operating. The battery for starting the engine can be prevented from rising. Further, the dedicated battery is connected to the dimming control device 1, and the dimming control device 1 operates by receiving power supply from the dedicated battery.

  And the light modulation control apparatus 1 of this embodiment is connected to each of the light control glass 110 which comprises the six window glasses 111-116, and transmission of visible light in each light control glass 110 is shown in FIG. The rate adjustment and color display by the organic EL element layer 140 in each light control glass 110 are controlled. The CPU 10, the GPS position detection unit 21, the speed sensor 22, the brightness sensor 23, the changeover switch 24, and the display instruction input The unit 25, the ROM 30 and the RAM 40 are provided.

A ROM (Read Only Memory) 30 is necessary for executing various programs (dimming control program / display control program) to be executed by the CPU 10 to realize the function as the dimming control device 1 and these programs. Initial data (default values, etc.), position determination conditions and speed determination conditions required for determination by the position determination means 11 and speed determination means 12 described later, and area information (specific areas described later) required for the determination Longitude / latitude information) and speed information (speed zero information described later) and window glasses 111-116.
Original image data displayed on the organic EL element layer 140 in each of the light control glasses 110 (in addition to brake display image data and direction indication display image data to be described later, various display image data stored according to user preferences, etc. ) And the like. In the present embodiment, the position determination condition is that the location of the automobile 100 is a specific area designated in advance (more specifically, an area other than the public road on which the automobile 100 can travel; for example, private land or convenience store The speed determination condition is that the moving speed (vehicle speed) of the automobile 100 is zero.

  A RAM (Random Access Memory) 40 temporarily stores data (flags, variable values, etc.) used when the CPU 10 executes a program stored in the ROM 30, and controls each of the window glasses 111 to 116. When color display is performed by the organic EL element layer 140 in the optical glass 110, image data to be displayed by the organic EL element layer 140 is temporarily stored.

The GPS position detection unit (position detection means) 21 detects the location (current position; latitude / longitude information) of the automobile 100 using, for example, an existing car navigation GPS (Global Positioning System) function. The speed sensor (speed detection means) 22 is connected to the automobile 10.
The moving speed (vehicle speed) of 0 is detected, and the speed sensor 22 already used in the automobile 100 is also used. The lightness sensor (lightness detection means) 23 detects the lightness outside the automobile 100 (the degree of brightness outside the passenger compartment; unit: lux (lx)).

  A change-over switch (switching means) 24 is used for CPU 10 (adjusting means 13 to be described later) to instruct to switch each dimming glass 110 from a transparent state to an opaque state and to switch each dimming glass 110 from an opaque state to a transparent state. Instructions for switching all of the front window glass 111, the right front side window glass 112, the left front side window glass 113, the right rear side window glass 114, the left rear side window glass 115 and the rear window glass 116 simultaneously, An instruction to selectively switch at least one of these window glasses 111 to 116 can be given. Further, as will be described later, the changeover switch 24 can also set / cancel the brightness adjustment mode for adjusting the transmittance according to the detection result (brightness) by the brightness sensor 23.

  The display instruction input unit 25 gives an instruction to execute or cancel the color display by the organic EL element layer 140 in each light control glass 110 to the CPU 10 (display control means 14 to be described later). An image to be displayed on the light glass 110 is designated from the original image data stored in the ROM 30 to instruct to display or release the image, and to designate a color to be emitted on each light control glass 110. A display instruction or a release instruction according to the color is performed, or a brake display image as described later with reference to FIG. 5 is displayed on the rear window glass 116 (light control glass 110) in accordance with the driver's operation of the brake 50. An instruction to set or cancel the brake display mode is given, or a display image for direction indication as described later with reference to FIG. It is intended or to direct the operation setting or cancellation of direction indication display mode for displaying in accordance with the direction indicator 60 to be operated Te.

A CPU (Central Processing Unit) 10 reads and executes a dimming control program / display control program stored in the ROM 30 to execute position determination means 11, speed determination means 12, adjustment means 13, and display control means, which will be described later. 14 is fulfilled.

The position determination unit 11 determines whether or not the location (current position; latitude / longitude information) of the automobile 100 detected by the GPS position detection unit 21 satisfies the position determination condition stored in the ROM 30. It is determined whether or not the vehicle belongs to an area (an area other than the public road on which the automobile 100 can travel; for example, private land or a parking lot at a convenience store). The determination by the position determination unit 11 determines whether the latitude / longitude information of the location detected by the GPS position detection unit 21 belongs to the longitude / latitude information of a specific area registered in the ROM 30 in advance. Is done.

The speed determination unit 12 determines whether or not the moving speed (vehicle speed) of the automobile 100 detected by the speed sensor 22 satisfies the speed determination condition stored in the ROM 30, that is, whether or not it is zero. Is.
As will be described later with reference to FIG. 7, the adjusting means 13 determines the position of the window glasses 111 to 113 in front of and on both sides of the driver in accordance with the road transport vehicle security standard (Article 29, paragraph 4). While the transmission rate is to be adjusted according to the determination result by the means 11 and the speed determination means 12 and the switching instruction performed by the changeover switch 24, as will be described later with reference to FIG. The window glasses 114 to 116 are subjected to transmittance adjustment according to only the switching instruction given by the changeover switch 24.

  In other words, when the adjustment means 13 receives an instruction from the changeover switch 24 to switch each of the light control glasses 110 forming the window glasses 111 to 113 from the transparent state to the opaque state, the position determination means 11 sets the location of the automobile 100 to a specific region. Only when it is determined that the moving speed of the automobile 100 is determined to be zero by the speed determination means 12, the transmittance of each light control glass 110 forming the window glasses 111 to 113 is less than a predetermined value (for example, Less than 70%), and each light control glass 110 is switched from a transparent state to an opaque state.

  As described above, even after each light control glass 110 forming the window glasses 111 to 113 is switched to the opaque state, detection by the GPS position detection unit 21 and the speed sensor 22 and a position based on the detection result at every predetermined control period. When the determination by the determination unit 11 and the speed determination unit 12 is performed and the position determination unit 11 determines that the location of the automobile 100 does not belong to the specific area, or the speed determination unit 12 moves the automobile 100 When it is determined that the speed is not zero, the adjusting means 13 immediately adjusts the transmittance of each light control glass 110 forming the window glasses 111 to 113 to a predetermined value or more (for example, 70% or more), The optical glass 110 is switched from an opaque state to a transparent state.

  Moreover, the adjustment means 13 switches the instruction | indication which switches each dimming glass 110 which comprises the window glass 114-116 which is not the object of the said road transport vehicle security standards (Article 29 Clause 4) from a transparent state to an opaque state. When received from the switch 24, the transmittance of each light control glass 110 is adjusted to less than a predetermined value (for example, less than 70%) regardless of the determination results by the speed determination means 11 and the position determination means 12, and Switch from transparent to opaque state.

  Further, when the adjusting means 13 receives an instruction to switch the light control glasses 110 forming the window glasses 111 to 116 from a transparent state to an opaque state, the adjustment means 13 sets the transmittance of each light control glass 110 to a predetermined value or more (for example, 70% or more). ) To switch each light control glass 110 from an opaque state to a transparent state.

  Further, the adjusting means 13 of the present embodiment responds to the brightness outside the vehicle 100 (the degree of brightness outside the passenger compartment) detected by the brightness sensor 23 when the brightness adjustment mode is set by the changeover switch 24. Thus, it also has a function of adjusting the transmittance of each light control glass 110. For example, when the brightness outside the automobile 100 is low (that is, when the outside of the vehicle is dark), the light control glass 110 is adjusted to increase the transmittance, while when the brightness outside the automobile 100 is high (that is, when the outside of the vehicle is bright), It adjusts so that the transmittance | permeability of each light control glass 110 may be made low.

  When each light control glass 110 is the light control glass 110A shown in FIG. 2, the adjusting means 13 applies a predetermined voltage to the two transparent electrodes 153 and 154 in the liquid crystal film 150, and the liquid crystal in the liquid crystal layer 155. By changing the molecular orientation, the transmittance of the light control glass 110 is adjusted to be less than a predetermined value. Moreover, when each light control glass 110 is the light control glass 110B shown in FIG. 3, the adjustment means 13 applies a predetermined voltage to the transparent electrodes 141 and 142 of the organic EL element layer 140, and the light emitting layer 145 has a specific wavelength. The transmittance of the light control glass 110 is adjusted to be less than a predetermined value by emitting the light (ultraviolet light in the present embodiment) and coloring the photochromic glass layer 160. Furthermore, when each light control glass 110 is the light control glass 110C shown in FIG. 4, the adjustment means 13 applies a predetermined voltage to the transparent electrodes 141 and 142 of the organic EL element layer 140, and the light emitting layer 145 has a predetermined color. The light transmittance of the light control glass 110 is adjusted to be less than a predetermined value by emitting the light.

The display control means 14 controls the light emission state of each light emitter of the light emitting layer 145 of the organic EL element layer 140 in each light control glass 110 to display any color or any color image in the organic EL element layer 140. Is to execute.
In particular, as will be described later with reference to FIG. 10, the display control means 14 of the present embodiment follows the above-mentioned road transport vehicle safety standards (Article 29, Paragraph 4), and the window glass on the front and both sides of the driver. When an execution instruction for color display in 111 to 113 is received from the display instruction input unit 25, the position determination unit 11 determines that the location of the automobile 100 belongs to a specific area and the speed determination unit 12 Only when it is determined that the moving speed of the automobile 100 is zero, the color of an image or the like designated by the display instruction input unit 25 on the organic EL element layer 140 of each light control glass 110 forming the window glasses 111 to 113. Execute the display.

  Further, as will be described later with reference to FIG. 9 and FIG. 11, the display control unit 14 receives the execution instruction for the color display on the window glasses 114 to 116 from the display instruction input unit 25, as described above. Immediately without making a determination, the organic EL element layer 140 of each light control glass 110 constituting the window glasses 114 to 116 is caused to execute color display of an image or the like designated by the display instruction input unit 25.

  Further, as will be described later with reference to FIG. 9, the display control unit 14 is configured to display the rear window glass 116 while the automobile 100 is traveling when the above-described brake display mode is set by the display instruction input unit 25. In the organic EL element layer 140 of the light control glass 110 used as the rear window glass 116, display linked to the operation of the brake 50 by the driver of the automobile 100 is executed. When the brake display mode is set, for example, when the driver operates the brake 50, the brake lamp is turned on, and at the same time, a brake display image (an image including “brake!”) As shown in FIG. Is displayed. The brake display image is not limited to the example shown in FIG.

  Similarly, as will be described later with reference to FIG. 9, the display control unit 14 causes the vehicle 100 to travel when the direction instruction display mode described above is set for the rear window glass 116 by the display instruction input unit 25. In the organic EL element layer 140 of the light control glass 110 used therein as the rear window glass 116, display linked to the operation of the direction indicator 60 operated by the driver of the automobile 100 is executed. At the time of setting the direction indication display mode, for example, when the driver operates the direction indicator 60, the blinker corresponding to the indication direction is turned on, and at the same time, the direction indication display image (right side) shown in FIG. An image including a large right arrow) corresponding to the direction instruction is displayed. The direction indication display image is not limited to the example shown in FIG.

[2] Operation of the Dimming Control Device of the Present Embodiment Next, the dimming control operation (operation of the adjusting means 13) of the dimming control device 1 of the present embodiment configured as described above will be described with reference to FIGS. Will be described with reference to FIG. 7 is a flowchart for explaining the dimming control operation (the dimming control operation for the front window glass 111 and the front side window glasses 112 and 113) of the dimming control device 1 of this embodiment, and FIG. 8 is the present embodiment. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the light control operation (light control operation with respect to the rear side window glass 114,115 and the rear window glass 116) of the light control apparatus 1 of a form.

  As described above, the CPU 10 (adjusting means 13) operates in response to an instruction from the changeover switch 24, and is the target of the road transport vehicle safety standard (Article 29, Paragraph 4). As for the window glasses 111 to 113 on both sides, the dimming control of the dimming glass 110 is performed according to the flowchart shown in FIG. 7 (steps S11 to S20), while the other window glasses 114 to 116 are shown in FIG. The light control of the light control glass 110 is performed according to the flowchart shown (steps S21 to S25).

  As shown in FIG. 7, when the window glasses 111 to 113 are set in a transparent state (a state in which the visible light transmittance is equal to or higher than a predetermined value (70%)) (YES route in step S11), the changeover switch. 24. All the window glasses 111 to 116 are designated from 24, or at least one of the window glasses 111 to 113 is designated, and an instruction to switch the light control glass 110 from a transparent state to an opaque state is input to the CPU 10 When this is done (YES route of step S12), the current position (latitude / longitude information) of the automobile 100 detected by the GPS position detector 21 by the position determination means 11 is a specific area (a public road on which the automobile 100 can travel and move). Judgment whether it belongs to an area other than the above (for example, private land or a parking lot at a convenience store) and speed determination Determining by the step 12, whether the moving speed of the vehicle 100 detected by the speed sensor 22 (vehicle speed) is zero, i.e. whether the vehicle 100 is stopped (step S13).

  And when it determines with the present position of the motor vehicle 100 belonging to a specific area | region and the motor vehicle 100 has stopped (YES route of step S14), each light control glass 110 which comprises the window glasses 111-113 by the adjustment means 13 Is adjusted to less than a predetermined value (70%) and each light control glass 110 is switched from a transparent state to an opaque state (step S15), while the current position of the automobile 100 does not belong to a specific area, or If it is determined that the automobile 100 is not stopped (NO route in step S14), an error is given to the driver (switching operator) that the adjustment means 13 does not perform the switching adjustment to the opaque state and cannot be switched. (Step S16). The error notification is performed by a beep sound or an error display on the console display.

  When the window glasses 111 to 113 are already set in an opaque state (a state where the transmittance of visible light is less than a predetermined value (70%)) (NO route in step S11), all windows are switched from the changeover switch 24. When the glass 111 to 116 is designated or at least one of the window glasses 111 to 113 is designated and an instruction to switch the light control glass 110 from the opaque state to the transparent state is input to the CPU 10 (step S17). YES route), and the adjusting means 13 immediately adjusts the transmittance of each of the light control glasses 110 forming the window glasses 111 to 113 to a predetermined value (70%) or more, so that each light control glass 110 is in a transparent state from an opaque state. (Step S20).

Further, the window glasses 111 to 113 are already set in an opaque state (a state in which the transmittance of visible light is less than a predetermined value (70%)) (NO route in step S11), and the dimming glass from the changeover switch 24. In the state where the instruction to switch from the opaque state to the transparent state 110 is not input to the CPU 10 (NO route in step S17), the detection by the GPS position detection unit 21 and the speed sensor 22 and the detection result are included at every predetermined control cycle. The determination by the position determination unit 11 and the speed determination unit 12 based on this is executed (step S18), and when the position determination unit 11 determines that the current position of the automobile 100 does not belong to the specific area, or by the speed determination unit 12 If it is determined that the automobile 100 has started to move (NO route in step S19), the adjustment By means 13, the transmittance of each light control glass 110 forming the window glasses 111 to 113 is immediately adjusted to a predetermined value (70%) or more, and each light control glass 110 is switched from an opaque state to a transparent state (step S20). ).

  As shown in FIG. 8, when the window glasses 114 to 116 are set in a transparent state (a state in which the transmittance of visible light is a predetermined value (70%) or more) (YES route in step S21), the changeover switch. 24. All the window glasses 111 to 116 are designated from 24, or at least one of the window glasses 114 to 116 is designated, and an instruction to switch the light control glass 110 from the transparent state to the opaque state is input to the CPU 10. If it does (YES route of step S22), the transmittance | permeability of each light control glass 110 which comprises the window glasses 114-116 will be immediately adjusted to less than predetermined value (70%) by the adjustment means 13, and each light control glass 110 will be adjusted. Is switched from the transparent state to the opaque state (step S23).

  Then, when the window glasses 114 to 116 are already set in an opaque state (a state where the transmittance of visible light is less than a predetermined value (70%)) (NO route in step S21), all of the window glasses 114 to 116 are switched from the changeover switch 24. When an instruction to switch the light control glass 110 from the opaque state to the transparent state is input to the CPU 10 by designating the window glasses 111 to 116 or at least one of the window glasses 114 to 116 ( In step S24, the YES route), the adjustment means 13 immediately adjusts the transmittance of each light control glass 110 forming the window glasses 114 to 116 to a predetermined value (70%) or more, and each light control glass 110 is in an opaque state. The state is switched to the transparent state (step S25).

  When at least one of the window glasses 111 to 116 is set in a transparent state and the brightness adjustment mode is set by the changeover switch 24, the window glass is set in a transparent state. With respect to the light control glass 110 of the window glass, the transmittance is adjusted by the adjusting means 13 according to the brightness outside the automobile 100 (the degree of brightness outside the passenger compartment) detected by the brightness sensor 23. For example, when the brightness outside the automobile 100 is low (that is, when the outside of the vehicle is dark), the transmittance of each of the light control glasses 110 is adjusted to ensure a field of view, while when the brightness outside the automobile 100 is high (that is, the outside of the vehicle is bright). In the case), the transmittance of each light control glass 110 is adjusted to be low to reduce the glare experienced by the driver and the occupant. However, when adjusting the transmittance to be low, the transmittance is not adjusted so low that the window glass becomes opaque, and the glare is reduced while ensuring the field of view through the window glass (light control glass 110). Adjust the transmittance as low as possible.

  Next, the display control operation (the operation of the display control means 14) of the light control device of this embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 9 is a flowchart for explaining the display control operation (display control operation for the rear window glass 116) of the dimming control device 1 of the present embodiment, and FIG. 10 is the display control of the dimming control device 1 of the present embodiment. FIG. 11 is a flowchart for explaining the operation (display control operation for the front window glass 111 and the front side window glasses 112 and 113). FIG. 11 shows the display control operation (for the rear side window glasses 114 and 115) of the dimming control device 1 of this embodiment. It is a flowchart for demonstrating display control operation | movement.

As described above, the CPU 10 (display control means 14) operates in accordance with an instruction from the display instruction input unit 25. For the rear window glass 116, the light control glass 110 according to the flowchart (steps S31 to S42) shown in FIG. For the window glasses 111 to 113 in front of the driver and on both sides, which are subjected to the display control of the (organic EL element layer 140) and are subject to the safety standards (Article 29, paragraph 4) of the road transport vehicle. The display control of the light control glass 110 (organic EL element layer 140) is performed according to the flowchart shown in FIG. 10 (steps S51 to S58), and the other window glasses 114 and 115 are shown in the flowchart shown in FIG. 11 (steps S61 to S61). Display control of the light control glass 110 (organic EL element layer 140) according to S65). It is carried out.

  As shown in FIG. 9, an instruction to execute color display by the organic EL element layer 140 in the light control glass 110 of the rear window glass 116 by designating the rear window glass 116 from the display instruction input unit 25 is input to the CPU 10. Then (YES route in step S31), it is determined whether or not the execution instruction is to set the brake display mode and the direction instruction display mode (step S32).

  When the execution instruction is to set the brake display mode and the direction instruction display mode (YES route in step S32), the display instruction input unit 25 thereafter inputs a setting release instruction for these modes. The processing of steps S33 to S36 is executed by the display control means 14 (until YES is determined in step S37). That is, when the driver operates the brake 50 (YES route of step S33), the brake lamp is turned on and at the same time, the display control means 14 causes the rear window glass 116 to display a brake display image (for example, “brake”) as shown in FIG. ")" Is displayed (step S34). Further, when the driver operates the direction indicator 60 (from the NO route in step S33 to the YES route in step S35), the turn signal corresponding to the indicated direction is turned on and at the same time, the display control means 14 causes the rear window glass 116 to be A display image for direction indication as shown in FIG. 6 (an image including a large right arrow corresponding to the right direction indication) is displayed (step S36). Then, when an instruction to cancel the setting of these modes is input from the display instruction input unit 25 (YES route in step S37), the setting of the brake display mode and the direction instruction display mode is canceled (step S38).

  On the other hand, when the execution instruction does not set the brake display mode and the direction instruction display mode (NO route of step S32), the execution instruction is designated from the original image data stored in the ROM 30. The display control means 14 determines that the instruction is to display the given arbitrary image or the instruction to emit / display the specified color. Then, the display control means 14 reads out data relating to the designated image or color from the ROM 30 (step S39), and an arbitrary image or designated color is emitted and displayed on the rear window glass 116 based on the read data. (Step S40). The display in step S40 is continued until a display cancellation instruction is input from the display instruction input unit 25 (YES in step S41), and when a display cancellation instruction is input from the display instruction input unit 25 (step S41). (YES route of S41), the display of the arbitrary image or the designated color is canceled (step S42).

  In the example shown in FIG. 9, the case where both the brake display mode and the direction indication display mode are set is described, but only one of the brake display mode and the direction indication display mode is designated. In this case, a brake display or a direction indication display corresponding to the designated mode is performed.

As shown in FIG. 10, from the display instruction input unit 25, at least one of the window glasses 111 to 113 is designated, and an execution instruction for color display by the organic EL element layer 140 in the light control glass 110 (stored in the ROM 30). When an instruction to display an arbitrary image specified from the original image data that has been specified or a light emission / display instruction for a specified color is input to the CPU 10 (YES route in step S51), the position determination means 11 causes the GPS to Whether the current position (latitude / longitude information) of the automobile 100 detected by the position detection unit 21 belongs to a specific area (an area other than the public road on which the automobile 100 can travel; for example, a private land or a convenience store parking lot). The vehicle 10 detected by the speed sensor 22 by the speed determination means 12. Whether the speed of movement (speed) is zero, i.e. it determines whether vehicle 100 is stopped (step S52).

  If it is determined that the current position of the automobile 100 belongs to the specific area and the automobile 100 is stopped (YES route in step S53), the display control means 14 sends data related to the designated image or color from the ROM 30. While being read (step S54), an arbitrary image or a designated color is emitted and displayed on the light control glass 110 based on the read data (step S55). The display in step S55 is performed until a display cancellation instruction is input from the display instruction input unit 25, or until the position determination unit 11 determines that the current position of the automobile 100 does not belong to the specific area, or the speed It is continued until it is determined by the determination means 12 that the automobile 100 has started moving (until YES is determined in step S56), a display cancellation instruction is input from the display instruction input unit 25, or the current position of the automobile 100 is outside the specific region. If the vehicle 100 starts to move (YES route of step S56), the display of the arbitrary image or the designated color is canceled (step S57).

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S53 that the current position of the automobile 100 does not belong to the specific area or the automobile 100 is not stopped (NO route), the display control means 14 does not perform the display control and the display is performed. Is notified to the driver (switching operator) as an error (step S58). The error notification is performed by a beep sound or an error display on the console display.

  As shown in FIG. 11, an instruction to execute color display by the organic EL element layer 140 in the light control glass 110 is specified from the display instruction input unit 25 (stored in the ROM 30) by designating at least one of the window glasses 114 and 115. When an instruction to display an arbitrary image designated from the original image data that has been designated or a light emission / display instruction of a designated color is input to the CPU 10 (YES route in step S61), the display control means 14 designates Data relating to the read image or color is read from the ROM 30 (step S62), and an arbitrary image or specified color is emitted and displayed on the light control glass 110 based on the read data (step S63). The display in step S63 is continued until a display cancellation instruction is input from the display instruction input unit 25 (YES in step S64), and when a display cancellation instruction is input from the display instruction input unit 25 (step S64). (YES route in S64), the display of the arbitrary image or the designated color is canceled (step S65).

[3] Effect of the dimming control device of the present embodiment As described above, according to the dimming control device 1 as one embodiment of the present invention, the location of the automobile 100 is in a specific region (a region other than on the public road). Only when it is determined that the vehicle 100 belongs to the vehicle 100 and the moving speed of the automobile 100 is determined to be zero, the transmittance of the light control glass 110 is adjusted to be less than a predetermined value (for example, 70%). When it is determined that the position does not belong to a specific area (that is, for example, belongs to a public road), or when it is determined that the moving speed of the automobile 100 is not zero, the transmittance of the light control glass 110 is predetermined. Adjusted above the value.

  Therefore, for example, when the vehicle is stopped on a public road or is not moving on a public road, the transmittance of the window glasses 111 to 113 (the light control glass 110) cannot be switched to a predetermined value, that is, the window glass 111. Since .about.113 cannot be switched to an opaque state, safety during stopping on public roads and safety during movement on areas other than public roads can be ensured.

  While securing safety in this way, in specific places other than on public roads (for example, private property and convenience store parking lots), the window glass 111-116 (light control glass) can be used without removing the key if stopped. 110) can be switched to an opaque state by switching the transmittance of the window glass to less than a predetermined value, so that an increase in the in-vehicle temperature can be reliably suppressed, and privacy and security can be reliably protected. . Further, since it is not necessary to remove the key, it is possible to switch the window glasses 111 to 116 to an opaque state while starting the engine and operating the air conditioner during meals and sleep in the automobile 100.

  Here, when the light control glass 110 including the liquid crystal film 150 (the light control glass 110A shown in FIG. 2) is used, only a predetermined voltage is applied between the two transparent electrodes 153 and 154. The transmittance of the light control glass 110A can be very easily switched to less than a predetermined value to make the window glasses 111 to 116 opaque.

  When the light control glass 110 including the organic EL element layer 140 and the photochromic glass layer 160 (the light control glass 110B shown in FIG. 3) is used, the light emitting layer 145 of the organic EL element layer 140 has light of a specific wavelength ( It is very easy to switch the transmittance of the light control glass 110B to less than a predetermined value and make the window glasses 111 to 116 opaque by simply emitting (ultraviolet light). At this time, since the photochromic glass layer 160 is colored by the light emitted from the organic EL element layer 140, the light transmittance is sufficiently changed, while light other than the light having a wavelength that colors the photochromic glass layer 160 is organic. When the EL element layer 140 emits light, the light control glass 110B including the organic EL element layer 140 can function as a display device for the outside as described above.

  When the light control glass 110 including only the organic electroluminescence element layer 140 (light control glass 110C shown in FIG. 4) is used, the light emitting layer 145 of the organic EL element layer 140 only emits light of a predetermined color. Thus, the transmittance of the light control glass 110C can be very easily switched to less than a predetermined value to make the window glasses 111 to 116 opaque. Also in this case, the light control glass 110C including the organic EL element layer 140 can be functioned as a display device for the outside as described above.

  In addition, the light emitting layer 145 in the organic EL element layer 140 is configured by regularly arranging light emitters that emit three primary colors of red, green, and blue in a matrix shape, and controls the light emission state of each light emitter. Thus, it becomes possible to perform arbitrary color development and arbitrary image display in the organic EL element layer 140, and the window glasses 111 to 116 (light control glass 110) can be used as a display device for the outside.

  For example, by making the colors of all the window glasses 111 to 116 (light control glass 110) the same color as the outer surface of the vehicle body while the automobile 100 is stopped or parked, the appearance is stylish and extremely conspicuous. It becomes difficult for a third party with a breach to perform illegal activities such as theft, which greatly contributes to the prevention of illegal activities on the automobile 100.

  In addition, in the organic EL element layer 140 of the light control glass 110 used as the rear window glass 116 while the automobile 100 is running, the display is interlocked with the operation of the brake 50 of the automobile 100 and the operation of the direction indicator 60 of the automobile 100. By executing the display, it is possible to clearly convey the driver's intention of braking and moving direction to the driver of the vehicle behind by a large display using the rear window glass 116 as well as the brake lamp and the turn signal. It becomes possible, and safety during traveling can be improved.

In recent years, by using the GPS function of a car navigation system generally installed in automobiles and the like, the location (current position) of the automobile 100 can be determined very easily without newly providing special position detection means. Can be detected.
Further, according to the road transport vehicle safety standard (Article 29, Paragraph 4), the window glasses 111 to 113 at least in front of and on both sides of the driver may be targeted for transmittance adjustment. About the transmittance | permeability of the light control glass 110 used as window glass 114-116 other than 111-113, regardless of the stop position / movement of the motor vehicle 100 and regardless of the location of the motor vehicle 100, it is predetermined by the changeover switch 24. By being configured to be selectively switchable to any one of less than or above the values, the window glass 114 to 116 other than the target window glasses 111 to 113 can be switched at any time according to the will of the occupant of the automobile 100. It is possible to improve the convenience.

  Further, by adjusting the transmittance of the light control glass 110 according to the brightness of the exterior of the automobile 100, the visibility can be secured by increasing the transmittance when the exterior of the automobile 100 is dark, while the exterior of the automobile 100 When the vehicle is extremely bright (such as when there is a lot of ultraviolet rays), the transmittance can be lowered to reduce the glare experienced by the driver and the occupant. Can be improved and safety can be improved.

  Further, in the present embodiment, when the display control means 14 performs color display on the window glasses 111 to 113 that are the targets of the road transport vehicle security standard (Article 29, paragraph 4), the location of the automobile 100 is determined. Color display by the light control glass 110 (organic EL element layer 140) is performed only when it is determined that the vehicle belongs to a specific region (region other than the public road) and the moving speed of the automobile 100 is determined to be zero. On the other hand, when it is determined that the location of the automobile 100 does not belong to a specific area (that is, belongs to a public road, for example), or when it is determined that the moving speed of the automobile 100 is not zero, color display is performed. Is adjusted to cancel. Therefore, for example, when the vehicle is stopped on a public road or while it is not on a public road, color display by the window glasses 111 to 113 (light control glass 110) cannot be performed. Therefore, safety during a stop on a public road is possible. And safety during movement in areas other than on public roads.

[4] Others The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the present invention.
For example, in the present embodiment, the case where the vehicle is an automobile has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and a vehicle having a window glass like a cruiser, a small boat, an aircraft, or a train. Therefore, the present invention is applied in the same manner as the above-described embodiment, and the same operational effects as those in the above-described embodiment can be obtained.

  When no color display or the like is performed, each light control glass 110 is configured by attaching only a liquid crystal film 150 as shown in FIG. 2 to a normal glass plate that does not have the organic EL element layer 140. At the same time, the CPU 10 is configured so as to function as the position determination means 11, the speed determination means 12, and the adjustment means 13, and the adjustment means 13 transmits the light control glasses 110 through the procedure described with reference to FIGS. You may comprise so that a rate may be adjusted.

  According to such a configuration, color display by the organic EL element layer 140 cannot be performed, but the vehicle 100 is stopped at a specific place other than on the public road while ensuring safety during the stop on the public road, for example. If this is done, the window can be switched to an opaque state without removing the key, and the above-described advantages of the present invention can be obtained.

In the present embodiment, six pieces of light control glass 110 are used. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the window glass used for a vehicle on which the light control device 1 of the present invention is mounted. The light control glass 110 for the number of sheets is used.
Further, the light control glass 110 may not be entirely composed of one organic EL panel, and a plurality of organic EL panels may be combined to form one light control glass 110. With this configuration, even if a large organic EL panel is difficult to obtain due to technical or economic reasons, the light control glass 110 made of the organic EL panel can be enlarged. It is.

  Further, the functions (all or a part of the functions of each means) as the position determination means 11, speed determination means 12, adjustment means 13 and display control means 14 described above include a computer (CPU, information processing apparatus, various terminals). ) Is realized by executing a predetermined application program (a dimming control program or a display control program).

  The program is, for example, a computer such as a flexible disk, CD (CD-ROM, CD-R, CD-RW, etc.), DVD (DVD-ROM, DVD-RAM, DVD-R, DVD-RW, DVD + R, DVD + RW, etc.). It is provided in a form recorded on a readable recording medium. In this case, the computer reads the dimming control program from the recording medium, transfers it to the internal storage device or the external storage device, and uses it. Further, the program may be recorded in a storage device (recording medium) such as a magnetic disk, an optical disk, or a magneto-optical disk, and provided from the storage device to a computer via a communication line.

  Here, the computer is a concept including hardware and an OS (operating system), and means hardware operating under the control of the OS. Further, when the OS is unnecessary and the hardware is operated by the application program alone, the hardware itself corresponds to the computer. The hardware includes at least a microprocessor such as a CPU and means for reading a program recorded on a recording medium. The application program as the dimming control program or the display control program is a program code for causing the computer as described above to realize the functions as the position determination unit 11, the speed determination unit 12, the adjustment unit 13, and the display control unit 14. Contains. Also, some of the functions may be realized by the OS instead of the application program.

  Furthermore, as a recording medium in the present embodiment, in addition to the flexible disk, CD, DVD, magnetic disk, optical disk, and magneto-optical disk described above, an IC card, ROM cartridge, magnetic tape, punch card, computer internal storage device (RAM) In addition, various computer-readable media such as an external storage device or a printed matter on which a code such as a barcode is printed can be used.

[5] Appendix (Appendix 1)
In a vehicle provided with a light control glass capable of adjusting the transmittance of visible light as a window glass, a light control device for controlling the transmittance of the light control glass,
Position detecting means for detecting the location of the vehicle;
Speed detecting means for detecting the moving speed of the vehicle;
Position determination means for determining whether or not the location of the vehicle detected by the position detection means belongs to a specific area specified in advance;
Speed determining means for determining whether or not the moving speed of the vehicle detected by the speed detecting means is zero;
When the position determining means determines that the location of the vehicle belongs to the specific area and the speed determining means determines that the moving speed of the vehicle is zero, the transmittance of the light control glass A dimming control device for a vehicle window glass, characterized in that it comprises an adjusting means for adjusting the value of the vehicle window to a value less than a predetermined value.

(Appendix 2)
When it is determined by the position determination means that the location of the vehicle does not belong to the specific region, or when the speed determination means determines that the moving speed of the vehicle is not zero, the adjustment means, The light control device for vehicle window glass according to claim 1, wherein the transmittance of the light control glass is adjusted to the predetermined value or more.

(Appendix 3)
The light control glass is configured to include a liquid crystal film formed by sandwiching a liquid crystal layer that blocks visible light by changing the orientation of liquid crystal molecules by applying a predetermined voltage between two transparent electrodes,
The adjusting means adjusts the transmittance of the light control glass to be less than the predetermined value by applying the predetermined voltage to the two transparent electrodes to change the orientation of the liquid crystal molecules. The dimming control device for a vehicle window glass according to Supplementary Note 1 or Supplementary Note 2, wherein

(Appendix 4)
The light control glass further comprises an organic electroluminescence element layer formed by sandwiching a transparent light emitting layer that emits light by applying a predetermined voltage between two transparent electrodes,
The light emitting layer is configured by arranging light emitters that emit red, green, and blue, which are the three primary colors of light, in a matrix,
Appendix 3 characterized by further comprising display control means for controlling the light emitting state of each light emitter to cause the organic electroluminescence element layer to perform any color development or any image display. Dimming control device for vehicle window glass as described.

(Appendix 5)
The light control glass reacts to light of a specific wavelength emitted from the light emitting layer, and an organic electroluminescence element layer formed by sandwiching a transparent light emitting layer that emits light by applying a predetermined voltage between two transparent electrodes. And a photochromic glass layer to be colored,
The adjustment means adjusts the transmittance of the light control glass to be less than the predetermined value by causing the light emitting layer to emit light of the specific wavelength and coloring the photochromic glass layer. A dimming control device for a vehicle window glass according to 1 or 2.

(Appendix 6)
The light emitting layer is configured by arranging light emitters that emit red, green, and blue, which are the three primary colors of light, in a matrix,
Appendix 5 characterized by further comprising display control means for controlling the light emitting state of each light emitter to cause the organic electroluminescence element layer to perform any color development or any image display. Dimming control device for vehicle window glass as described.

(Appendix 7)
The light control glass includes an organic electroluminescence element layer formed by sandwiching a transparent light emitting layer that emits light by applying a predetermined voltage between two transparent electrodes,
The vehicle according to appendix 1 or appendix 2, wherein the adjusting means adjusts the transmittance of the light control glass to be less than the predetermined value by causing the light emitting layer to emit light of a predetermined color. Dimming control device for window glass.

(Appendix 8)
The light emitting layer is configured by arranging light emitters that emit red, green, and blue, which are the three primary colors of light, in a matrix,
Appendix 7 characterized by further comprising display control means for controlling the light emitting state of each light emitter to execute any color development or any image display in the organic electroluminescence element layer. Dimming control device for vehicle window glass as described.

(Appendix 9)
The display control means causes the organic electroluminescence element layer of the light control glass used as a rear window glass during the movement of the vehicle to execute display linked to a brake operation of the vehicle. 4. A dimming control device for a vehicle window glass according to any one of 4, 6 and 8.

(Appendix 10)
The display control means causes the organic electroluminescence element layer of the light control glass used as a rear window glass during the movement of the vehicle to execute display linked to the operation of the vehicle direction indicator. The dimming control device for a vehicle window glass according to any one of Supplementary Note 4, Supplementary Note 6, Supplementary Note 8, and Supplementary Note 9.

(Appendix 11)
The vehicle is a car;
The dimming control device for a vehicle window glass according to any one of Supplementary Note 1 to Supplementary Note 10, wherein the specific region is a region other than a public road on which the automobile can travel.
(Appendix 12)
The dimming control of the window glass for vehicles according to any one of appendix 1 to appendix 11, wherein the position detecting means detects the location of the vehicle using a GPS (Global Positioning System). apparatus.

(Appendix 13)
The adjustment means uses light control glass used as a window glass at least in front of and on both sides of the driver of the vehicle as an adjustment target of the transmittance according to a determination result by the position determination means and the speed determination means. The dimming control device for a vehicle window glass according to any one of Supplementary Note 1 to Supplementary Note 12, characterized in that:

(Appendix 14)
About the transmittance of the light control glass used as a window glass other than the window glass in front and both sides of the driver of the vehicle, regardless of the determination result by the speed determination unit and the position determination unit, the adjustment unit 14. The vehicle window glass dimming control device according to appendix 13, further comprising switching means for selectively switching to any one of less than the predetermined value or more than the predetermined value.

(Appendix 15)
Further comprising lightness detection means for detecting lightness outside the vehicle;
The window glass for vehicles according to any one of appendix 1 to appendix 14, wherein the adjusting means adjusts the transmittance of the light control glass according to the brightness detected by the brightness detecting means. Dimming control device.

It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the light control apparatus of the window glass for vehicles as one Embodiment of this invention. It is sectional drawing which shows typically the structure of the 1st example of the light control glass used as the window glass of this embodiment. It is sectional drawing which shows typically the structure of the 2nd example of the light control glass used as a window glass of this embodiment. It is sectional drawing which shows typically the structure of the 3rd example of the light control glass used as a window glass of this embodiment. It is a figure which shows the example of a display image (example linked with brake operation) displayed during driving | running | working in the rear window glass of this embodiment. It is a figure which shows the example of a display image (example linked with operation | movement of a direction indicator) displayed during driving | running | working in the rear window glass of this embodiment. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the light control operation (light control operation with respect to a front window glass and a front side window glass) of the light control apparatus of this embodiment. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the light control operation (light control operation with respect to a rear side window glass and a rear window glass) of the light control apparatus of this embodiment. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the display control operation | movement (display control operation | movement with respect to a rear window glass) of the light modulation control apparatus of this embodiment. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the display control operation | movement (display control operation | movement with respect to a front window glass and a front side window glass) of the light modulation control apparatus of this embodiment. It is a flowchart for demonstrating the display control operation | movement (display control operation | movement with respect to a rear side window glass) of the light modulation control apparatus of this embodiment.

Explanation of symbols

1 Light control device for vehicle window glass 10 CPU
DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 11 Position determination means 12 Speed determination means 13 Adjustment means 14 Display control means 21 GPS position detection part (position detection means)
22 Speed sensor (speed detection means)
23 Lightness sensor (lightness detection means)
24 selector switch (switching means)
25 Display instruction input unit 30 ROM
40 RAM
50 Brake 60 Direction indicator 100 Automobile (vehicle, vehicle)
110, 110A, 110B, 110C Light control glass 111 Front window glass 112 Right front side window glass 113 Left front side window glass 114 Right rear side window glass 115 Left rear side window glass 116 Rear window glass 120, 130 Glass plate (transparent plate)
140 Organic Electroluminescence Element Layer 141 Anode Transparent Electrode 142 Cathode Transparent Electrode 143 Organic Electroluminescence Layer 144 Hole Transport Layer 145 Light Emitting Layer (Light Emitter)
146 Electron transport layer 150 Liquid crystal film 151,152 Transparent thin film 153,154 Transparent electrode 155 Liquid crystal layer (liquid crystal molecule)
160 Photochromic glass layer

Claims (10)

In a vehicle provided with a light control glass capable of adjusting the transmittance of visible light as a window glass, a light control device for controlling the transmittance of the light control glass,
Position detecting means for detecting the location of the vehicle;
Speed detecting means for detecting the moving speed of the vehicle;
Position determination means for determining whether or not the location of the vehicle detected by the position detection means belongs to a specific area specified in advance;
Speed determining means for determining whether or not the moving speed of the vehicle detected by the speed detecting means is zero;
When the position determining means determines that the location of the vehicle belongs to the specific area and the speed determining means determines that the moving speed of the vehicle is zero, the transmittance of the light control glass A dimming control device for a vehicle window glass, characterized in that it comprises an adjusting means for adjusting the value of the vehicle window to a value less than a predetermined value.   When it is determined by the position determination means that the location of the vehicle does not belong to the specific area, or when the speed determination means determines that the moving speed of the vehicle is not zero, the adjustment means, 2. The vehicle window glass light control device according to claim 1, wherein the transmittance of the light control glass is adjusted to be equal to or greater than the predetermined value. The light control glass is configured to include a liquid crystal film formed by sandwiching a liquid crystal layer that blocks visible light by changing the orientation of liquid crystal molecules by applying a predetermined voltage between two transparent electrodes,
The adjusting means adjusts the transmittance of the light control glass to be less than the predetermined value by applying the predetermined voltage to the two transparent electrodes to change the orientation of the liquid crystal molecules. The dimming control device for a vehicle window glass according to claim 1, wherein the dimming control device is a vehicle window glass. The light control glass further comprises an organic electroluminescence element layer formed by sandwiching a transparent light emitting layer that emits light by applying a predetermined voltage between two transparent electrodes,
The light emitting layer is configured by arranging light emitters that emit red, green, and blue, which are the three primary colors of light, in a matrix,
The organic electroluminescence element layer further comprises display control means for executing any color development or any image display by controlling the light emission state of each light emitter. 4. A dimming control device for a vehicle window glass according to 3. The light control glass reacts to light of a specific wavelength emitted from the light emitting layer, and an organic electroluminescence element layer formed by sandwiching a transparent light emitting layer that emits light by applying a predetermined voltage between two transparent electrodes. And a photochromic glass layer to be colored,
The adjusting means adjusts the transmittance of the light control glass to less than the predetermined value by causing the light emitting layer to emit light of the specific wavelength and coloring the photochromic glass layer. The dimming control device for a vehicle window glass according to claim 1 or 2. The light emitting layer is configured by arranging light emitters that emit red, green, and blue, which are the three primary colors of light, in a matrix,
The organic electroluminescence element layer further comprises display control means for executing any color development or any image display by controlling the light emission state of each light emitter. 5. A dimming control device for a vehicle window glass according to 5. The light control glass includes an organic electroluminescence element layer formed by sandwiching a transparent light emitting layer that emits light by applying a predetermined voltage between two transparent electrodes,
The said adjustment means adjusts the said transmittance | permeability of the said light control glass to less than the said predetermined value by making the said light emitting layer light-emit the light of a predetermined color, The Claim 1 or Claim 2 characterized by the above-mentioned. Dimming control device for vehicle window glass. The light emitting layer is configured by arranging light emitters that emit red, green, and blue, which are the three primary colors of light, in a matrix,
The organic electroluminescence element layer further comprises display control means for executing any color development or any image display by controlling the light emission state of each light emitter. 8. A dimming control device for a vehicle window glass according to 7.   In the organic electroluminescence element layer of the light control glass used as a rear window glass during the movement of the vehicle, the display control means displays in conjunction with the brake operation of the vehicle or the operation of the direction indicator of the vehicle. The dimming control device for a vehicle window glass according to claim 4, wherein the dimming control device is executed. The vehicle is a car;
10. The vehicle window glass light control device according to claim 1, wherein the specific region is a region other than a public road on which the automobile can travel. 10.

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