JP7286928B2 - Dimming device and manufacturing method thereof - Google Patents

Description

The present disclosure relates to a light control device and a manufacturing method thereof.

Conventionally, a light control member that is used in combination with a light-transmitting member such as a window and that can be used for electronic blinds that control the transmission of external light, and a light control device that uses such a light control member have been proposed. (See Patent Documents 1 and 2, for example). A liquid crystal film having a liquid crystal layer is known as one of such light control members. This liquid crystal film is produced by sandwiching a liquid crystal material between transparent resin substrates including transparent electrodes, and further sandwiching this between linear polarizing plates. The liquid crystal film can change the orientation of the liquid crystal by changing the electric field applied between the transparent electrodes, and can control the transmission amount of external light.

Japanese Patent No. 6135816 JP 2017-187810 A

When such a liquid crystal film is used as a light control member that can be used for automobile roof windows, side windows, etc., the liquid crystal film (light control cell) is sandwiched between a pair of glasses with an intermediate film interposed between them, and the laminated glass is formed. It is preferable to

Further, in such a laminated glass, it is considered to sandwich two layers of liquid crystal films between two sheets of glass in order to further enhance the light-shielding property. When two layers of liquid crystal films (light control cells) are stacked, it is necessary to use a liquid crystal film with a low retardation in order to prevent a decrease in light shielding and translucency due to the retardation of the two layers of liquid crystal film. . However, a liquid crystal film with a low retardation is easily affected by the plasticizer contained in the intermediate film, and in this case, cracks or the like may occur in the liquid crystal film.

The present embodiment provides a light control device and a method of manufacturing the same that can provide a high quality light control device.

A light control device according to the present embodiment includes a first glass plate, a second glass plate, and a first light control cell and a second light control cell disposed between the first glass plate and the second glass plate. and a light cell, wherein the first light control cell and the second light control cell include a low retardation base material, and a plasticizer is included between the first glass plate and the first light control cell. A first interlayer film containing no plasticizer is provided, and a second interlayer film containing no plasticizer is provided between the second glass plate and the second dimming cell.

In the light control device according to this embodiment, a third intermediate film containing no plasticizer may be provided between the first light control cell and the second light control cell.

In the light control device according to this embodiment, the third intermediate film may have a melting point of 100° C. or less.

In the light control device according to this embodiment, a liquid layer may be provided between the first light control cell and the second light control cell.

In the light control device according to this embodiment, at least one of between the first glass plate and the first intermediate film and between the second glass plate and the second intermediate film has penetration resistance. An intermediate film may be provided.

In the light control device according to the present embodiment, a waterproof intermediate film is provided between the first glass plate and the first intermediate film and between the second glass plate and the second intermediate film. It's okay to be.

In the light control device according to this embodiment, an air gap may be provided between the first light control cell and the second light control cell.

In the light control device according to the present embodiment, at least one of a surface of the first light control cell facing the air gap side and a surface of the second light control cell facing the air gap side reflects A prevention layer may be provided.

In the light control device according to the present embodiment, at least one of a surface of the first light control cell facing the air gap side and a surface of the second light control cell facing the air gap side has a moth eye. Layers may be provided.

The light control device according to this embodiment includes a first glass plate, a second glass plate, and a first light control cell and a polarizing plate which are arranged between the first glass plate and the second glass plate. , wherein the first light control cell includes a low retardation base material, and a first intermediate film containing no plasticizer is provided between at least the first glass plate and the first light control cell, A second intermediate film is provided between the second glass plate and the polarizing plate.

A light control device according to this embodiment includes a first glass plate, a second glass plate, and a light control cell disposed between the first glass plate and the second glass plate, The optical cell includes a low retardation base material, a first interlayer film containing no plasticizer is provided between the first glass plate and the light control cell, and the light control cell and the second glass plate are provided. Between is provided a second interlayer film containing no plasticizer.

In the light control device according to this embodiment, the melting point of the second intermediate film may be 100° C. or less.

In the light control device according to this embodiment, a liquid layer may be provided between the light control cell and the second intermediate film.

In the light control device according to this embodiment, at least one of between the first glass plate and the first intermediate film and between the second glass plate and the second intermediate film has penetration resistance. An intermediate film may be provided.

In the light control device according to the present embodiment, a waterproof intermediate film is provided between the first glass plate and the first intermediate film and between the second glass plate and the second intermediate film. It's okay to be.

In the light control device according to this embodiment, an air gap may be provided between the light control cell and the second intermediate film.

In the light control device according to the present embodiment, an antireflection layer is provided on at least one of the surface of the light control cell facing the air gap side and the surface of the second intermediate film facing the air gap side. It may be provided.

In the light control device according to the present embodiment, a moth-eye layer is provided on at least one of a surface of the light control cell facing the air gap side and a surface of the light control cell facing the air gap side. It's okay to be there.

A light control device according to this embodiment includes a first glass plate, a second glass plate, and a light control cell disposed between the first glass plate and the second glass plate, The optical cell includes a low retardation base material, a first interlayer film containing no plasticizer is provided between the first glass plate and the light control cell, and the light control cell and the second glass plate are provided. An air gap is provided between

A method for manufacturing a light control device according to the present embodiment comprises steps of preparing a first light control cell and a second light control cell, preparing a first glass plate and a second glass plate, and a step of sandwiching the first light control cell and the second light control cell using the second glass plate, the first glass plate, the first light control cell, the second light control cell and the second light control cell a step of integrally joining two glass plates, wherein the first light control cell and the second light control cell include a low retardation base material, and the first glass plate and the first light control cell are bonded together; A first interlayer film containing no plasticizer is provided therebetween, and a second interlayer film containing no plasticizer is provided between the second glass plate and the second dimming cell.

A method for manufacturing a light control device according to the present embodiment comprises a step of preparing a light control cell, a step of preparing a first glass plate and a second glass plate, and using the first glass plate and the second glass plate. a step of sandwiching the light control cell; and a step of integrally bonding the first glass plate, the light control cell, and the second glass plate, wherein the light control cell includes a low retardation base material. and a first intermediate film containing no plasticizer is provided between the first glass plate and the light control cell, and a second interlayer film containing no plasticizer is provided between the light control cell and the second glass plate. 2 interlayers are provided.

According to the embodiments of the present disclosure, it is possible to provide a high-quality light control device.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a light control device according to a first embodiment. FIG. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view showing the light control device according to the first embodiment. FIGS. 3A and 3B are schematic diagrams showing respective liquid crystal layers of the first light control cell and the second light control cell. FIG. 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the periphery of the external electrode substrate in the light control cell. FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view showing a light control device having a peripheral sealing material in the first embodiment. FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view showing a light control device having a frame intermediate film in the first embodiment. FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view showing a light control device having a frame film spacer in the first embodiment. 8A to 8D are cross-sectional views showing the method of manufacturing the light control cell according to the first embodiment. 9A to 9E are cross-sectional views showing the method of manufacturing the light control cell according to the first embodiment. 10A to 10C are cross-sectional views showing the method of manufacturing the light control device according to the first embodiment. FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view showing a modification (modification 1-1) of the light control device according to the first embodiment. FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view showing a modification (modification 1-2) of the light control device according to the first embodiment. FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view showing a modification (modification 1-3) of the light control device according to the first embodiment. FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view showing a modification (modification 1-4) of the light control device according to the first embodiment. FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view showing a modification (modification 1-5) of the light control device according to the first embodiment. FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view showing a modification (modification 1-6) of the light control device according to the first embodiment. FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view showing a modification (modification 1-7) of the light control device according to the first embodiment. FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view showing a modification (modification 1-8) of the light control device according to the first embodiment. FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view showing a modification (modification 1-9) of the light control device according to the first embodiment. FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional view showing the light control device according to the second embodiment. FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional view showing a light control device having a frame intermediate film in the second embodiment. FIG. 22 is a cross-sectional view showing a light control device having a frame film spacer in the second embodiment. FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional view showing a modification (modification 2-1) of the light control device according to the second embodiment. FIG. 24 is a cross-sectional view showing a modification (modification 2-2) of the light control device according to the second embodiment. FIG. 25 is a cross-sectional view showing a modification (modification 2-3) of the light control device according to the second embodiment. FIG. 26 is a cross-sectional view showing a modification (modification 2-4) of the light control device according to the second embodiment. FIG. 27 is a cross-sectional view showing a modification (modification 2-5) of the light control device according to the second embodiment. FIG. 28 is a cross-sectional view showing a modification (modification 2-6) of the light control device according to the second embodiment. FIG. 29 is a cross-sectional view showing a modification (modification 2-7) of the light control device according to the second embodiment. FIG. 30 is a cross-sectional view showing a modification (modification 2-8) of the light control device according to the second embodiment. FIG. 31 is a cross-sectional view showing a modification (modification 2-9) of the light control device according to the second embodiment.

(First embodiment)
A first embodiment will be described below with reference to FIGS. 1 to 10. FIG. 1 to 10 are diagrams showing the first embodiment.

The light control device 10 described below can be applied to various technical fields requiring adjustment of light transmittance, and the scope of application is not particularly limited. The light control device 10 is, for example, a window glass of a building, a showcase, an indoor transparent partition, a part for light control such as a window of a vehicle (a part where external light is incident, for example, front, side, rear, It is arranged on a window such as a roof, etc., and can control the amount of incident light to the inside of a building, vehicle, or the like.

Note that the light control device 10 described below merely exemplifies one embodiment. Therefore, for example, some of the elements listed below as components of the light control device 10 may be replaced with other elements, or may not be included. Elements not listed below may also be included as constituent elements of the light control device 10 . Also, in the drawings, for convenience of illustration and easy understanding, there are portions where scales, dimensional ratios, etc. are appropriately changed or exaggerated from those of the actual ones.

(dimmer)
FIG. 1 shows a light control device (laminated glass) 10 according to this embodiment. The light control device 10 according to the present embodiment has a three-dimensional shape having a curved surface shape. have. In addition, the light control device 10 is not limited to this. configuration), and the like. Here, the three-dimensional shape is not a simple cylindrical surface, but a curved surface that cannot be constructed by simply deforming a flat surface without expansion and contraction. curved surface) or a two-dimensional shape (two-dimensional curved surface) that is two-dimensionally bent with different curvatures about a plurality of mutually parallel axes. That is, a three-dimensional shape is a shape with surfaces that are partially or wholly curved about each of a plurality of axes that are tilted with respect to each other.

As shown in FIG. 1, the light control device 10 according to the present embodiment includes a first glass plate 11, a first intermediate film 13, a first light control cell 20A, a third intermediate film 15, a second light control It includes a photocell 20B, a second intermediate film 14, and a second glass plate 12. As shown in FIG. First glass plate 11, first intermediate film 13, first light control cell 20A, third intermediate film 15, second light control cell 20B, second intermediate film 14, and second glass plate 12 are stacked in this order.

FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view showing the layer structure of the light control device 10 according to this embodiment. Although the light control device 10 of the present embodiment has a three-dimensional surface shape, the surface shape of the light control device 10 is planar in FIG. 2 for easy understanding. 1 shows a cross-sectional view of the case.

As shown in FIG. 2, the light control device 10 includes a first glass plate 11, a second glass plate 12, and a first light control cell disposed between the first glass plate 11 and the second glass plate 12. 20A and a second light control cell 20B (hereinafter also referred to as light control cells 20A and 20B). The dimming cells 20A and 20B each include a first laminate 21 including a first substrate 24, a first transparent electrode 25 and a first alignment layer 26, a second substrate 27, a second transparent electrode 28 and a second a second stack 22 including an alignment layer 29 and a liquid crystal layer 23 disposed between the first stack 21 and the second stack 22 .

The 1st glass plate (transparent member) 11 and the 2nd glass plate (transparent member) 12 are each arranged on the front and back of the light control device 10, and are plate glass which has high translucency. Each of the first glass plate 11 and the second glass plate 12 has a three-dimensional shape having a curved surface shape, and is formed in advance in a shape having a curved shape that is convex on one surface side (see FIG. 1). ). In this case, the first glass plate 11 and the second glass plate 12 are formed so that the first glass plate 11 side is convex with respect to the second glass plate 12 side. Further, in the present embodiment, the thickness of the first glass plate 11 and the second glass plate 12 is 1 mm or more and 4 mm or less, and as an example, plate glass with a thickness of 2 mm is used. The first glass plate 11 and the second glass plate 12 may be inorganic glass or resin glass. As the resin glass, for example, polycarbonate, acryl, or the like can be used. When inorganic glass is used for the first glass plate 11 and the second glass plate 12, the light control device 10 can have excellent heat resistance and scratch resistance. On the other hand, when resin glass is used as the first glass plate 11 and the second glass plate 12, the light control device 10 can be made lighter. Furthermore, the first glass plate 11 and the second glass plate 12 may be subjected to surface treatment such as hard coating, if necessary.

The first intermediate film 13 is arranged between the first glass plate 11 and the first light control cell 20A, and is a member that joins the first glass plate 11 and the first light control cell 20A. The second intermediate film 14 is arranged between the second glass plate 12 and the second light control cell 20B, and is a member that joins the second glass plate 12 and the second light control cell 20B. Further, the third intermediate film 15 is a member that is arranged between the first light control cell 20A and the second light control cell 20B and joins the first light control cell 20A and the second light control cell 20B.

In the present embodiment, resin sheets containing no plasticizer are used as the first intermediate film 13, the second intermediate film 14, and the third intermediate film 15, respectively. Materials for the first intermediate film 13, the second intermediate film 14, and the third intermediate film 15 include resins such as PVB (polyvinyl butyral), EVA (ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer), and COP (cycloolefin polymer). A material containing no plasticizer may also be used. Here, the plasticizer is a material added to improve the flexibility and the like of the above resin. plasticizers, adipate plasticizers such as dihexyl adipate, or glycol plasticizers such as triethylene glycol bi-di-2-ethylhexanoate and tetraethylene glycol bis(2-ethylhexoate) etc. Also, the thicknesses of the first intermediate film 13, the second intermediate film 14, and the third intermediate film 15 may be appropriately selected according to their materials and the like. Specifically, the thickness of the first intermediate film 13, the second intermediate film 14, and the third intermediate film 15 may be 300 μm or more and 1.5 mm or less, and as an example, a thickness of 760 μm is used.

The light control cells 20A and 20B (light control film, liquid crystal film) are films capable of controlling the amount of transmitted light by changing the applied voltage. The light control cells 20A and 20B are arranged so as to be sandwiched between the first glass plate 11 and the second glass plate 12. As shown in FIG. The light control cells 20A and 20B have a guest-host type liquid crystal layer using a dichroic dye, and are members that change the amount of transmitted light by an electric field applied to the liquid crystal. The light control cells 20A and 20B each include a film-like first laminate 21, a film-like second laminate 22, and a liquid crystal layer 23 disposed between the first laminate 21 and the second laminate 22. and The configurations of the light control cells 20A and 20B are substantially the same as each other, except for the position of the external electrode substrate 35, as will be described later.

The first laminate 21 is formed by laminating a first substrate 24 , a first transparent electrode 25 and a first alignment layer 26 . That is, the first substrate 24, the first transparent electrode 25, and the first alignment layer 26 are laminated in this order from the first intermediate film 13 side. Also, the second laminate 22 is formed by laminating a second substrate 27 , a second transparent electrode 28 and a second alignment layer 29 . That is, the second substrate 27, the second transparent electrode 28, and the second alignment layer 29 are stacked in this order from the second intermediate film 14 side.

Furthermore, a plurality of columnar spacers 40 and a plurality of bead spacers 31 are arranged between the first laminate 21 and the second laminate 22 . The liquid crystal layer 23 is arranged between the plurality of columnar spacers 40 and between the plurality of bead spacers 31 between the first laminate 21 and the second laminate 22 . The plurality of columnar spacers 40 and the plurality of bead spacers 31 may be arranged irregularly or regularly.

The light-modulating cells 20A and 20B are driven by the first transparent electrode 25 and the second transparent electrode 28 provided on the first laminate 21 and the second laminate 22, respectively, so that the guest-host liquid crystal composition provided in the liquid crystal layer 23 is changed. The orientation of the liquid crystal material is changed by an object, thereby changing the amount of transmitted light.

The first base material 24 and the second base material 27 are made of transparent resin and can be applied with flexible films. The first base material 24 and the second base material 27 are arranged in the outermost layer of the first light control cell 20A or the second light control cell 20B, respectively. As the first base material 24 and the second base material 27, it is desirable to use a transparent resin film having a transmittance of 80% or more in the visible wavelength range (380 nm or more and 800 nm or less). In the present embodiment, the first base material 24 and the second base material 27 are low retardation base materials with small optical anisotropy and low retardation. For this reason, it is possible to suppress deterioration in the light shielding property and translucency of the light control device 10 due to the phase difference generated between the first light control cell 20A and the second light control cell 20B. The low retardation substrate is, for example, a substrate having an in-plane retardation of 15 μm or less, preferably 10 μm or less. Examples of materials for such a transparent resin film as a low retardation substrate include resins such as polycarbonate (PC) and cycloolefin polymer (COP). Also, the thickness of the transparent resin film used as the first base material 24 and the second base material 27 can be appropriately selected within a range in which the transparent resin film has flexibility, although it depends on the material. The thicknesses of the first base material 24 and the second base material 27 may each be 50 μm or more and 200 μm or less.

In this embodiment, as described above, the first base material 24 and the second base material 27 are low retardation base materials. Such low retardation substrates are susceptible to plasticizers. Therefore, by using materials that do not contain a plasticizer as materials for the first intermediate film 13, the second intermediate film 14, and the third intermediate film 15 adjacent to the first base material 24 and the second base material 27, the The first substrate 24 and the second substrate 27 are kept out of contact with the plasticizer. As a result, the first base material 24 and the second base material 27 react with the plasticizer contained in the first intermediate film 13, the second intermediate film 14, and the third intermediate film 15, thereby The occurrence of cracks or the like in the second base material 27 can be suppressed.

The first transparent electrode 25 and the second transparent electrode 28 are composed of transparent conductive films laminated on the first substrate 24 and the second substrate 27 (transparent resin film), respectively. As the transparent conductive film, various transparent electrode materials that are applied to this type of transparent resin film can be applied, and an oxide-based transparent metal thin film having a total light transmittance of 50% or more can be used. . Examples include tin oxide, indium oxide, and zinc oxide.

Tin oxide (SnO ₂ )-based materials include Nesa (tin oxide SnO ₂ ), ATO (Antimony Tin Oxide), and fluorine-doped tin oxide. Indium oxide (In ₂ O ₃ )-based materials include indium oxide, ITO (Indium Tin Oxide), and IZO (Indium Zinc Oxide). Zinc oxide (ZnO) systems include zinc oxide, AZO (aluminum-doped zinc oxide), and gallium-doped zinc oxide. In this embodiment, the transparent conductive film forming the first transparent electrode 25 and the second transparent electrode 28 is made of ITO.

The bead spacer 31 is a member that defines the thickness (cell gap) of the portion of the liquid crystal layer 23 excluding the outer peripheral portion. In this embodiment, spherical bead spacers are used as bead spacers 31 . The diameter of the bead spacer 31 may range from 1 μm to 20 μm, preferably from 3 μm to 15 μm. The bead spacers 31 can be widely applied with inorganic materials such as silica, organic materials, core-shell structures combining these materials, and the like. Moreover, the bead spacer 31 may be configured in a rod shape such as a cylindrical shape, an elliptical columnar shape, a polygonal columnar shape, or the like, in addition to the spherical configuration. The bead spacers 31 are made of a transparent member, but if necessary, a colored material may be applied to adjust the color.

In this embodiment, the bead spacers 31 are provided on the second laminate 22, but are not limited to this. It may be provided only on the laminate 21 .

The first alignment layer 26 and the second alignment layer 29 are members for aligning the liquid crystal molecule group contained in the liquid crystal layer 23 in a desired direction. The first alignment layer 26 and the second alignment layer 29 are formed by photo-alignment layers. Photo-alignment materials that can be applied to the photo-alignment layer can widely apply various materials to which the method of photo-alignment can be applied. can. In this embodiment mode, a photodimerization type material is used. Examples of photodimerizable materials include cinnamate, coumarin, benzylidenephthalimidine, benzylideneacetophenone, diphenylacetylene, stilbazole, uracil, quinolinone, maleimide, and polymers having cinnamylideneacetic acid derivatives. Among them, a polymer containing either or both of cinnamate and coumarin is preferably used because of its good orientation control force.

A rubbing alignment layer may be used instead of the photo-alignment layer. With respect to the rubbing alignment layer, the rubbing treatment may not be performed, or the alignment layer may be produced by performing a rubbing treatment and performing a molding treatment to form a fine line-shaped concave-convex shape. In this embodiment, each of the light control cells 20A and 20B includes the first alignment layer 26 and the second alignment layer 29, respectively. It is good also as a form which does not have.

Guest-host liquid crystal compositions and dichroic dye compositions can be widely applied to the liquid crystal layer 23 . The guest-host liquid crystal composition may contain a chiral agent so that when the liquid crystal material is horizontally aligned, it is aligned in a spiral shape in the thickness direction of the liquid crystal layer 23 .

Between the first laminated body 21 and the second laminated body 22, a ring-shaped or frame-shaped sealing material 32 is arranged in plan view. A liquid crystal layer 23 is arranged in a region surrounded by the sealing material 32 . The sealing material 32 holds the first laminate 21 and the second laminate 22 together and prevents leakage of the liquid crystal material. Thermosetting resin such as epoxy resin and acrylic resin, ultraviolet curable resin, or the like can be applied to the sealing material 32 .

In the light-modulating cells 20A and 20B, the first alignment layer 26 and the second alignment layer 29 are regulated in a predetermined direction by pretilt so that the guest-host liquid crystal composition is aligned when an electric field is applied when the light is shielded. It is composed of a vertical alignment layer with a force set, thereby being configured as normally clear. It should be noted that this setting during light transmission may be configured as a normally dark state during application of an electric field. Here, normally dark means a structure in which the transmittance is minimized when no voltage is applied to the liquid crystal, resulting in a black screen. Normally clear is a structure in which the transmittance is maximized and the liquid crystal becomes transparent when no voltage is applied to the liquid crystal.

Note that FIG. 3A is a schematic diagram for explaining the liquid crystal layer 23 (light shielding state) of the light control cells 20A and 20B. FIG. 3(b) is a schematic diagram for explaining the liquid crystal layer 23 (light transmission state) of the light control cells 20A and 20B, which are the same as in FIG. 3(a). The liquid crystal layer 23 of each light control cell 20A, 20B has a dichroic dye 23a and a liquid crystal 23b. Note that FIGS. 3A and 3B conceptually illustrate the dichroic dye 23a and the liquid crystal 23b in order to show the orientation directions of the dichroic dye 23a and the liquid crystal 23b.

When the voltage between the pair of transparent electrodes (the first transparent electrode 25 and the second transparent electrode 28) of each light control cell 20A, 20B is turned ON, a desired electric field is applied to the liquid crystal layer 23, and dichroism The pigment 23a and the liquid crystal 23b are arranged in the horizontal direction (that is, the direction perpendicular to the traveling direction L of light) (see FIG. 3A). As a result, the light entering the liquid crystal layer 23 is blocked (absorbed) by the dichroic dye 23a. In particular, it is preferable that the orientation of the dichroic pigment 23a of the first light-modulating cell 20A form an angle of 90° in plan view with respect to the orientation of the dichroic pigment 23a of the second light-modulating cell 20B. As a result, light entering the liquid crystal layer 23 can be more effectively blocked (absorbed) by the light control cells 20A and 20B.

On the other hand, when the voltage between the pair of transparent electrodes (the first transparent electrode 25 and the second transparent electrode 28) of each light control cell 20A, 20B is turned off, the first transparent electrode 25 and the second transparent electrode 28 No voltage is applied, and the dichroic dye 23a and the liquid crystal 23b are aligned in the vertical direction (that is, the light traveling direction L) (see FIG. 3B). In this case, the light shielding performance of the dichroic dye 23a against the light passing through the liquid crystal layer 23 is not exhibited so much regardless of the vibration direction of the light, and the light that enters the liquid crystal layer 23 is highly likely to pass through the liquid crystal layer 23 (dichroic It passes through the pigment 23a and the liquid crystal 23b).

Although the light control cells 20A and 20B of the present embodiment are provided with the guest-host type liquid crystal layer 23, they are not limited to this. The light control cells 20A and 20B may be configured to have a liquid crystal layer 23 such as a TN (Twisted Nematic) method, a VA (Vertical Alignment) method, or an IPS (In-Plane-Switching) method that does not use a dichroic dye composition. good. When such a liquid crystal layer 23 is provided, further providing a linear polarizing layer on each of the surfaces of the first base material 24 and the second base material 27 can function as a light control film.

Referring to FIG. 2 again, a plurality of columnar spacers 40 are arranged between the first alignment layer 26 of the first laminate 21 and the second alignment layer 29 of the second laminate 22 . Also, the columnar spacer 40 is positioned in a region surrounded by the sealing material 32 . This columnar spacer 40 is adhered to the second laminate 22 and not adhered to the first laminate 21 . That is, each columnar spacer 40 is adhered to the second alignment layer 29 , but is not adhered to the first alignment layer 26 and is in surface contact or close contact with the first alignment layer 26 . Alternatively, the columnar spacer 40 may adhere to the first laminate 21 and not adhere to the second laminate 22 .

The columnar spacers 40 may be made of photoresist. In this embodiment, the columnar spacers 40 are provided on the second laminate 22 , but are not limited to this, and may be provided on the first laminate 21 . Either one of the bead spacers 31 and the columnar spacers 40 may be provided, and both may not necessarily be provided.

Referring to FIG. 2 again, the dimming device 10 is connected to a dimming controller 91 to which a sensor device 92 and a user operation unit 93 are connected. The dimming controller 91 can control the dimming state of the dimming device 10 , switch between blocking and transmission of light by the dimming device 10 , and change the transmittance of light in the dimming device 10 . Specifically, the dimming controller 91 is connected to the external electrode substrate 35 of each of the dimming cells 20A and 20B, adjusts the electric field applied to the liquid crystal layer 23 of the dimming device 10, and controls the liquid crystal molecules in the liquid crystal layer 23. By changing the orientation of , it is possible to switch between blocking and transmission of light by the light control device 10, or to change the degree of light transmission.

The dimming controller 91 can adjust the electric field applied to the liquid crystal layer 23 of each dimming cell 20A, 20B based on any method. The dimming controller 91 adjusts the electric field applied to the liquid crystal layer 23 according to, for example, the measurement result of the sensor device 92 or an instruction (command) input by the user via the user operation unit 93 . It is possible to switch between blocking and transmitting light, or to change the degree of light transmission. Therefore, the dimming controller 91 may automatically adjust the electric field applied to the liquid crystal layer 23 according to the measurement result of the sensor device 92 or manually adjust it according to the user's instruction via the user operation unit 93 . can be adjusted to The object to be measured by the sensor device 92 is not particularly limited, and for example, the brightness of the usage environment may be measured. It is done according to the brightness of the environment. Moreover, both the sensor device 92 and the user operation unit 93 are not necessarily connected to the dimming controller 91, and only one of the sensor device 92 and the user operation unit 93 may be connected. .

FIG. 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the periphery of the external electrode substrate 35 in each of the light control cells 20A and 20B. As shown in FIG. 4 , an external electrode substrate 35 is sandwiched between the first laminate 21 and the second laminate 22 . The external electrode substrate 35 is positioned outside the region surrounded by the sealant 32 in the plane direction. The external electrode substrate 35 has an outer end electrically connected to the dimming controller 91 (see FIG. 2) and an inner end electrically connected to the first transparent electrode 25 and the second transparent electrode 28 via the conductive film 37 . properly connected. The external electrode substrate 35 may be made of, for example, an FPC (Flexible Printed Circuit). The conductive film 37 may be made of, for example, an anisotropic conductive film (ACF). In this case, the thickness of the external electrode substrate 35 is thicker than the thickness of the liquid crystal layer 23 . Therefore, the gap between the first laminate 21 and the second laminate 22 is wider in the portion where the external electrode substrate 35 is arranged than in the portion where the liquid crystal layer 23 is arranged.

In the present embodiment, the external electrode substrate 35 of the first light control cell 20A and the external electrode substrate 35 of the second light control cell 20B are arranged to be shifted from each other in plan view. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 2, the external electrode substrate 35 of the first light control cell 20A and the external electrode substrate 35 of the second light control cell 20B are arranged with respect to the centers of the light control cells 20A and 20B. They are arranged on opposite sides of each other. As described above, the distance between the first laminate 21 and the second laminate 22 is wider in the portion where the external electrode substrate 35 is arranged than in the portion where the liquid crystal layer 23 is arranged. Therefore, by shifting the positions of the external electrode substrates 35 of the light control cells 20A and 20B, the external electrode substrates 35 of the light control cells 20A and 20B are prevented from overlapping each other. This suppresses a local increase in the distance between the first laminate 21 and the second laminate 22 around the external electrode substrate 35 when the light control cells 20A and 20B are stacked. As a result, the uneven distribution of the liquid crystal in the liquid crystal layer 23 can be reduced, the occurrence of liquid crystal pools, which is a phenomenon in which a large amount of liquid crystal exists locally, can be suppressed, and the quality and appearance of the light control device 10 can be improved. .

The external electrode substrate 35 of the first light-modulating cell 20A and the external electrode substrate 35 of the second light-modulating cell 20B are positioned on opposite sides of the centers of the light-modulating cells 20A and 20B in plan view. It may be arranged. Alternatively, the external electrode substrate 35 of the first light control cell 20A and the external electrode substrate 35 of the second light control cell 20B may be arranged at positions substantially orthogonal to each other in plan view. Alternatively, the external electrode substrate 35 of the first light control cell 20A and the external electrode substrate 35 of the second light control cell 20B may be arranged side by side in a plan view.

As shown in FIG. 5, a first glass plate 11, a first intermediate film 13, a first light control cell 20A, a third intermediate film 15, a second light control cell 20B, a second intermediate film 14, and a second glass plate A peripheral sealing material 38 may be provided so as to cover the periphery of 12 . In a cross-sectional view, the peripheral sealing material 38 includes the first glass plate 11, the first intermediate film 13, the first light control cell 20A, the third intermediate film 15, the second light control cell 20B, the second intermediate film 14, and the A sealing material is formed on the side of the second glass plate 12 and seals these layers. As a material for the peripheral sealing material 38, a UV curable resin (urethane acrylate) may be used. Note that the peripheral sealing material 38 may be provided in each light control device 10 shown in FIGS.

As shown in FIG. 6 , the first intermediate film 13 , the second intermediate film 14 and the third intermediate film 15 may be connected to each other by the frame intermediate film 16 . The frame intermediate film 16 is made of the same material as the first intermediate film 13 , the second intermediate film 14 and the third intermediate film 15 . In this case, entry of moisture or the like from the side surface of the light control device 10 can be suppressed, and the water impermeability of the light control device 10 can be further enhanced.

Specifically, when the first intermediate film 13, the second intermediate film 14, and the third intermediate film 15 (in plan view) are larger than the light control cells 20A and 20B, the frame intermediate film 16 has, in cross-sectional view, It is an intermediate film formed in the thickness portion of the light control cells 20A and 20B. The frame intermediate film 16 is formed around the light control cells 20A and 20B in plan view, and the shape of the light control cells 20A and 20B is determined from the shapes of the first intermediate film 13, the second intermediate film 14 and the third intermediate film 15. It is a picture-frame-shaped intermediate film with a hole cut out. In FIG. 6, a frame intermediate film 16 is formed between the first intermediate film 13 and the third intermediate film 15 and in a portion corresponding to the periphery of the light control cell 20A. A frame intermediate film 16 is also formed in a portion between the second intermediate film 14 and the third intermediate film 15 and corresponding to the periphery of the light control cell 20B.

As shown in FIG. 7 , the first intermediate film 13 and the second intermediate film 14 may be connected to each other by a frame film spacer 17 . The frame film spacer 17 is a film substrate such as polyethylene terephthalate or COP provided at the same plane position as the frame intermediate film 16 . This frame film spacer 17 is made of a material different from that of the first intermediate film 13 , the second intermediate film 14 and the third intermediate film 15 . In this case, entry of moisture or the like from the side surface of the light control device 10 can be suppressed, and the water impermeability of the light control device 10 can be further enhanced.

Specifically, when the first intermediate film 13 and the second intermediate film 14 are larger than the light-modulating cells 20A, 20B and the third intermediate film 15 in plan view, the frame film spacer 17 is The optical cells 20A and 20B and the thickness of the third intermediate film 15 are formed. This frame film spacer 17 is formed around the light control cells 20A, 20B and the third intermediate film 15 in a plan view, and the shapes of the first intermediate film 13 and the second intermediate film 14 determine the shape of the light control cells 20A, 20B and It has a frame shape obtained by hollowing out the shape of the third intermediate film 15 . In FIG. 7, a frame film spacer 17 is formed between the first intermediate film 13 and the second intermediate film 14 and corresponding to the periphery of the light control cells 20A, 20B and the third intermediate film 15. . In FIG. 7, the planar shape of the third intermediate film 15 is the same as the planar shape of the first intermediate film 13 and the second intermediate film 14, and the frame film spacers 17 are provided only on the outer peripheral portions of the light control cells 20A and 20B. may be formed.

(Manufacturing method of dimming cell)
Next, a method of manufacturing the light control cells 20A and 20B according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 8(a)-(d) and 9(a)-(e). 8(a)-(d) and FIGS. 9(a)-(e) are cross-sectional views showing the manufacturing method of the first light control cell 20A according to the present embodiment. In addition, below, the manufacturing method of 20 A of 1st light control cells is demonstrated first.

First, as shown in FIG. 8A, a second base material 27 supplied in a roll is prepared. Subsequently, as shown in FIG. 8B, a second transparent electrode 28 made of, for example, ITO is formed on the second substrate 27 by sputtering using a sputtering apparatus. At this time, the transparent electrode may be patterned to have a predetermined pattern shape.

Next, as shown in FIG. 8(c), the second base material 27 on which the second transparent electrode 28 is formed is coated with the coating liquid for the second orientation layer 29 to prepare the second orientation layer 29. do. Thus, the second laminate 22 is prepared by laminating the second substrate 27, the second transparent electrode 28, and the second alignment layer 29. As shown in FIG.

In addition, in the same manner as the steps shown in FIGS. 8A to 8C, a first laminate 21 in which the first substrate 24, the first transparent electrode 25, and the first orientation layer 26 are laminated is also prepared. do.

Subsequently, as shown in FIG. 8D, bead spacers 31 are arranged on the second alignment layer 29 of the second laminate 22 . For the arrangement of the bead spacers 31, in addition to wet/dry spraying, various arrangement methods can be widely applied. For example, after partially applying a coating liquid prepared by dispersing the bead spacers 31 in a solvent together with a resin component, drying and baking are sequentially performed to randomly form beads on the second alignment layer 29. A spacer 31 may be arranged to hold the device in a difficult-to-move manner. Although not shown, the bead spacers 31 may be placed on the second transparent electrode 28 and the periphery of the bead spacers 31 may be covered with the second alignment layer 29 . Specifically, the bead spacers 31 are mixed with the coating liquid for the second alignment layer 29 to form the second alignment layer 29 , so that the bead spacers 31 are thinly covered and held by the second alignment layer 29 . can be in the form of

Next, as shown in FIG. 9A, columnar spacers 40 are formed on the second laminate 22 . The columnar spacers 40 may be formed by photolithography. In this case, after the coating liquid (photoresist) that forms the columnar spacers 40 is applied and dried, the photoresist is exposed using a mask having a pattern determined according to the arrangement of the columnar spacers 40 . And by developing, the columnar spacers 40 are produced.

Next, as shown in FIG. 9B, a sealant 32 is applied onto the second alignment layer 29 of the second laminate 22 using a dispenser. The sealing material 32 is applied in a frame shape so as to surround the portion where the liquid crystal layer 23 is to be produced.

Next, as shown in FIG. 9C, the liquid crystal forming the liquid crystal layer 23 is dripped onto the area surrounded by the sealing material 32 . At this time, the liquid crystal layer 23 is filled around the columnar spacers 40 and the bead spacers 31 inside the region surrounded by the sealing material 32 .

Subsequently, as shown in FIG. 9D, the second laminate 22 having the liquid crystal layer 23 disposed thereon and the first laminate 21 prepared in advance are laminated and pressed together. After that, the sealing material 32 is semi-cured by irradiation with ultraviolet rays, and then heated to integrate the first laminate 21 and the second laminate 22 . At this time, the columnar spacers 40 are not adhered to the first laminate 21 and remain in contact with the first laminate 21 . After that, the laminated body of the first laminated body 21 and the second laminated body 22 produced in this way is cut into a desired size by trimming.

Next, as shown in FIG. 9(e), by attaching the external electrode substrate 35 between the first laminate 21 and the second laminate 22, the first light control cell 20A according to the present embodiment is obtained. .

A second light-modulating cell 20B is fabricated in substantially the same manner as the above steps (FIGS. 8(a)-(d) and FIGS. 9(a)-(e)). The configuration of the second light control cell 20B is the same as the configuration of the first light control cell 20A except for the position of the external electrode substrate 35. As shown in FIG.

(Manufacturing method of light control device)
Next, a manufacturing method (laminated glass processing method) of the light control device 10 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 10A to 10C are cross-sectional views showing the method of manufacturing the light control device 10. FIG.

First, as shown in FIG. 10A, a first glass plate 11 and a second glass plate 12 are prepared. Subsequently, the first intermediate film 13, the first light control cell 20A, the third intermediate film 15, the second light control cell 20B and the second intermediate film 14 are sandwiched between the first glass plate 11 and the second glass plate 12, 10 A of laminated bodies are produced. Here, the first glass plate 11 and the second glass plate 12 are formed in advance with a curved shape having a three-dimensional surface shape. Further, the first light control cell 20A and the second light control cell 20B may also be shaped in advance into a three-dimensional curved shape by thermoforming.

Next, as shown in FIG. 10(b), the laminate 10A is enclosed in a bag 51. Next, as shown in FIG. The bag 51 is preferably made of flexible and airtight rubber or silicon. A vent pipe 52 is connected to the bag 51 , and the air inside the bag 51 is sucked through the vent pipe 52 by a pump (not shown). As a result, the air remaining between the members of the laminate 10</b>A can be sucked, and poor crimping due to air bubbles remaining inside the light control device 10 can be suppressed. In the present embodiment, the inside of the bag 51 and the inside of the laminate 10A are sucked so as to be in a vacuum state, and a pressure of about atmospheric pressure (0.1 MPa) is applied to the laminate 10A due to the differential pressure. explain. However, not limited to this, for example, by adjusting the suction force of a pump (not shown), although the inside of the bag 51 is not completely vacuum, the air between the members of the laminate 10A is sufficiently sucked, and the laminate 10A On the other hand, a state in which a pressure lower than the atmospheric pressure is applied due to the differential pressure may be employed.

Subsequently, as shown in FIG. 10(c), after enclosing the laminate 10A in the bag 51, the bag 51 is placed in the heating/pressurizing device 53. Next, as shown in FIG. Subsequently, the laminate 10A is heated together with the bag 51 at a predetermined temperature and time. In the present embodiment, the laminate 10A is heated for a predetermined time at a temperature equal to or higher than the softening temperatures of the first intermediate film 13, the second intermediate film 14 and the third intermediate film 15. FIG. At this time, the air inside the bag 51 is preferably sucked by a pump (not shown) through the vent tube 52 . A device used as the heating/pressurizing device 53 is not particularly limited as long as it can sufficiently heat and pressurize the laminate 10A. Examples thereof include devices for ovens and autoclaves. By this heating, the first intermediate film 13, the second intermediate film 14, and the third intermediate film 15 are melted, and the first glass plate 11, the first intermediate film 13, the first light control cell 20A, and the third intermediate film 13 of the laminate 10A are melted. The intermediate film 15, the second light control cell 20B, the second intermediate film 14, and the second glass plate 12 are pressure-bonded and integrally joined to obtain the light control device 10. FIG.

Thereafter, a leveling process is performed in which the laminated body 10A (light control device 10) is heated for a predetermined time at a temperature equal to or higher than the softening temperature of the first intermediate film 13, the second intermediate film 14 and the third intermediate film 15. FIG. By performing this leveling step, the cell gap, which had been smaller than a predetermined value, returns to its original value, the uneven distribution of liquid crystal such as liquid crystal pools is eliminated, and the cell gap (thickness of the liquid crystal layer 23) becomes uniform. Become. This leveling step may be performed after the laminated body 10A (light control device 10) is once cooled after bonding each member of the laminated body 10A, or continuously from the bonding of the laminated body 10A. You can go to Moreover, when it is not necessary to suck the air in the bag 51, the layered body 10A (light control device 10) may be taken out from the bag 51 and the leveling step may be performed.

As described above, according to the present embodiment, the light control cells 20A and 20B each include the first substrate 24 and the second substrate 27, which are low retardation substrates. A first intermediate film 13 containing no plasticizer is provided between the first glass plate 11 and the first light control cell 20A, and between the second glass plate 12 and the second light control cell 20B, A second intermediate film 14 is provided that does not contain a plasticizer. Further, a third intermediate film 15 containing no plasticizer is provided between the first light control cell 20A and the second light control cell 20B. Therefore, the low retardation substrates (the first substrate 24 and the second substrate 27) included in the dimming cells 20A and 20B are included in the first intermediate film 13, the second intermediate film 14, or the third intermediate film 15. It is not eroded by plasticizers. Thereby, it is possible to suppress the occurrence of cracks (chemical cracks) in the first base material 24 or the second base material 27 due to the influence of the plasticizer, and to provide the high-quality light control device 10 .

(Modification)
Next, various modifications of the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 11 to 19. FIG. 11 to 19 are cross-sectional views showing light control devices according to modified examples of the present embodiment. Each modification shown in FIGS. 11 to 19 differs from the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 to 10 in the layer structure of the light control device 10. FIG. In FIGS. 11 to 19, the same reference numerals are assigned to the same parts as those in FIGS. 1 to 10, and detailed description thereof will be omitted.

(Modification 1-1)
FIG. 11 shows the layer structure of the light control device 10 according to Modification 1-1. In FIG. 11, a third intermediate film 15A containing no plasticizer is provided between the first light control cell 20A and the second light control cell 20B, and the third intermediate film 15A has a melting point of 100°C. It is below. As such a third intermediate film 15A, for example, a resin such as EVA (ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer) that does not contain a plasticizer can be used. The thickness of the third intermediate film 15A may be 100 μm or more and 1.5 mm or less. By using a material having a melting point of 100° C. or less (low melting point material) as the third intermediate film 15A in this way, the fluidity of the third intermediate film 15A is enhanced by the heat applied to the laminated body 10A during processing of the laminated glass. As a result, the thickness of the liquid crystal layer 23 in the light control cells 20A and 20B can be made uniform, and the occurrence of liquid crystal pools can be suppressed.

In FIG. 11, when the first intermediate film 13 and the second intermediate film 14 are larger than the light control cells 20A and 20B and the third intermediate film 15A in plan view, the first intermediate film 13 and the second intermediate film 14 are They may be connected to each other by a frame intermediate film 16 (see FIG. 6). In this case, the material of the frame intermediate film 16 may be the same as the material of the first intermediate film 13 and the second intermediate film 14 .

Alternatively, in FIG. 11, when the first intermediate film 13, the second intermediate film 14 and the third intermediate film 15A are larger than the light control cells 20A and 20B in plan view, they are made of the same material as the third intermediate film 15A. A frame intermediate film 16 (see FIG. 6) may cover the sides of the light control cells 20A and 20B.

11, when the first intermediate film 13 and the second intermediate film 14 are larger than the light control cells 20A and 20B and the third intermediate film 15A in plan view, the first intermediate film 13 and the second intermediate film 14 are , may be connected to each other by frame film spacers 17 (see FIG. 7).

(Modification 1-2)
FIG. 12 shows the layer structure of the light control device 10 according to Modification 1-2. In FIG. 12, instead of the third intermediate film 15, a liquid layer 61 is provided between the first light control cell 20A and the second light control cell 20B. As such a liquid layer 61, for example, glycerin or the like can be used. The thickness of the liquid layer 61 may be 100 μm or more and 1.5 mm or less. Thus, by providing the liquid layer 61 between the first light control cell 20A and the second light control cell 20B, the liquid layer 61 can be made to flow during processing of laminated glass. As a result, the thickness of the liquid crystal layer 23 in the light control cells 20A and 20B can be made uniform, and the occurrence of liquid crystal pools can be suppressed. Moreover, since the liquid layer 61 does not contain a plasticizer, chemical cracks are prevented from occurring in the first base material 24 or the second base material 27 due to the influence of the plasticizer.

In FIG. 12, when the first intermediate film 13 and the second intermediate film 14 are larger than the light control cells 20A and 20B and the liquid layer 61 in plan view, the first intermediate film 13 and the second intermediate film 14 form a frame. They may be connected to each other by an intermediate film 16 (see FIG. 6).

Further, in FIG. 12, when the first intermediate film 13 and the second intermediate film 14 are larger than the light control cells 20A and 20B and the liquid layer 61 in plan view, the first intermediate film 13 and the second intermediate film 14 form a frame. They may be connected to each other by film spacers 17 (see FIG. 7).

(Modification 1-3)
FIG. 13 shows the layer structure of the light control device 10 according to Modification 1-3. In FIG. 13, penetration-resistant intermediate films 62 are provided between the first glass plate 11 and the first intermediate film 13 and between the second glass plate 12 and the second intermediate film 14, respectively. The penetration-resistant intermediate film 62 improves the penetration resistance of the light control device 10 . The thickness of the penetration-resistant intermediate film 62 may be 380 μm or more and 1.5 mm or less. Resin such as PVB (polyvinyl butyral) can be used as the penetration-resistant intermediate film 62 . The penetration-resistant intermediate film 62 may or may not contain a plasticizer. By thus providing the penetration-resistant intermediate film 62 between the first glass plate 11 and the first intermediate film 13 and between the second glass plate 12 and the second intermediate film 14, The penetration resistance of the light control device 10 can be improved. The penetration-resistant intermediate film 62 need not be provided between the first glass plate 11 and the first intermediate film 13 and between the second glass plate 12 and the second intermediate film 14. may be provided in only one of them.

In FIG. 13, when each penetration-resistant intermediate film 62 is larger than the first intermediate film 13, the second intermediate film 14, the third intermediate film 15 and the light control cells 20A and 20B in plan view, the first glass plate 11 The penetration-resistant intermediate film 62 on the side and the penetration-resistant intermediate film 62 on the second glass plate 12 side may be connected to each other by the frame intermediate film 16 (see FIG. 6). In this case, the material of the frame intermediate film 16 may be the same as the material of the penetration-resistant intermediate film 62 .

Alternatively, in FIG. 13, when each of the penetration-resistant intermediate film 62, the first intermediate film 13, the second intermediate film 14, and the third intermediate film 15 is larger than the light control cells 20A and 20B in plan view, the first intermediate film The film 13, the second intermediate film 14 and the third intermediate film 15 may be connected to each other by a frame intermediate film 16 (see FIG. 6).

In FIG. 13, when each penetration-resistant intermediate film 62 is larger than the first intermediate film 13, the second intermediate film 14, the third intermediate film 15, and the light control cells 20A and 20B in plan view, the first glass plate The penetration resistant intermediate film 62 on the 11 side and the penetration resistant intermediate film 62 on the second glass plate 12 side may be connected to each other by a frame film spacer 17 (see FIG. 7).

Alternatively, in FIG. 13, when each of the penetration-resistant intermediate film 62, the first intermediate film 13 and the second intermediate film 14 is larger than the light control cells 20A, 20B and the third intermediate film 15 in plan view, the first intermediate film The film 13 and the second intermediate film 14 may be connected to each other by a frame film spacer 17 (see FIG. 7).

(Modification 1-4)
FIG. 14 shows the layer structure of the light control device 10 according to modification 1-4. In FIG. 14, between the first glass plate 11 and the first intermediate film 13 and between the second glass plate 12 and the second intermediate film 14, water-impervious intermediate films 63 are provided. The water-impermeable intermediate film 63 prevents moisture or the like from entering the interior of the light control device 10 . The thickness of the water-impermeable intermediate film 63 may be 100 μm or more and 1.5 mm or less. Resin such as COP (cycloolefin polymer) can be used as such a water-impermeable intermediate film 63 . The water-impermeable intermediate film 63 may or may not contain a plasticizer. Thus, by providing the water-impervious intermediate film 63 between the first glass plate 11 and the first intermediate film 13 and between the second glass plate 12 and the second intermediate film 14, respectively, The waterproofness of the optical device 10 can be improved, and the inside of the light control device 10 can be protected from moisture and the like. The water-impervious intermediate film 63 on the first glass plate 11 side and the water-impervious intermediate film 63 on the second glass plate 12 side are connected to each other by the water-impervious frame intermediate film 64 . Also, the first intermediate film 13 , the second intermediate film 14 and the third intermediate film 15 are connected to each other by the frame intermediate film 65 . As a result, entry of moisture or the like from the side surface of the light control device 10 can be suppressed, and the water impermeability of the light control device 10 can be further enhanced.

The frame intermediate film 65 is similar to the frame intermediate film 16 (see FIG. 6) described above, when the intermediate film laminated on the light control cells 20A and 20B is larger than the light control cells 20A and 20B (in plan view). , the shape of the intermediate film formed on the thickness of the light control cell in a cross-sectional view, and the shape of the intermediate film formed around the light control cells 20A and 20B and stacked on the light control cells 20A and 20B in a plan view. It is a picture-frame-shaped intermediate film obtained by hollowing out the shape of the light control cells 20A and 20B. In FIG. 14, a frame intermediate film 65 is formed between the intermediate films 13 and 15 and in a portion corresponding to the periphery of the light control cell 20A. A frame intermediate film 65 is also formed in a portion between the intermediate films 14 and 15 and corresponding to the periphery of the light control cell 20B.

When the waterproof intermediate film 63 is larger than the laminate composed of the intermediate films 13, 14, 15, the light control cells 20A, 20B, and the frame intermediate film 65, the waterproof intermediate film 64 has an intermediate thickness in a cross-sectional view. It is a water-impervious intermediate film formed in the thickness part of the laminate composed of the films 13, 14, 15, the light control cells 20A, 20B, and the frame intermediate film 65. 20B and the frame intermediate film 65, and is a frame-shaped water-impervious intermediate film formed by hollowing out the shape of this laminate from the shape of the water-impervious intermediate film 63. As shown in FIG.

In addition, in FIG. 14, the frame intermediate film 65 may not necessarily be provided. In this case, the intermediate films 13, 14, 15 and the light control cells 20A, 20B have substantially the same size in a plan view, and the waterproof intermediate film 63 on the first glass plate 11 side and the third 2 may be connected to the water-impervious intermediate film 63 on the glass plate 12 side.

Further, in FIG. 14, the frame intermediate film 65 and the waterproof frame intermediate film 64 may not be provided. In this case, each water impervious intermediate film 63 is made larger than the first intermediate film 13, the second intermediate film 14, the third intermediate film 15, and the light control cells 20A and 20B in plan view, and is larger than the first glass plate 11 side. The water-impermeable intermediate film 63 and the water-impermeable intermediate film 63 on the second glass plate 12 side may be connected to each other by a frame film spacer 17 (see FIG. 7).

(Modification 1-5)
FIG. 15 shows the layer structure of the light control device 10 according to Modification 1-5. In FIG. 15, an air gap G (space) is provided between the first light control cell 20A and the second light control cell 20B, and the first light control cell 20A and the second light control cell 20B are directly connected to each other. not glued together. Since the air gap G is provided between the first light control cell 20A and the second light control cell 20B in this manner, the liquid crystal layer 23 in the light control cells 20A and 20B flows during the processing of the laminated glass. can be made As a result, the thickness of the liquid crystal layer 23 in the light control cells 20A and 20B can be made uniform, and the occurrence of liquid crystal pools can be suppressed. Moreover, the occurrence of chemical cracks in the first base material 24 or the second base material 27 due to the influence of the plasticizer is also prevented.

In FIG. 15, a peripheral intermediate film 72 (phantom line) may be provided between the first light control cell 20A and the second light control cell 20B and around the periphery of the light control cells 20A and 20B. The material of the peripheral intermediate film 72 may be the same as the material of the first intermediate film 13 and the second intermediate film 14 . By providing the peripheral intermediate film 72, the air gap G between the first light control cell 20A and the second light control cell 20B can be maintained.

In FIG. 15, when the first intermediate film 13 and the second intermediate film 14 are larger than the light control cells 20A and 20B in plan view, the first intermediate film 13 and the second intermediate film 14 are similar to the frame intermediate film 16 (see FIG. 15). 6)). In this case, the peripheral intermediate film 72 may or may not be provided.

In FIG. 15, when the first intermediate film 13 and the second intermediate film 14 are larger than the light control cells 20A and 20B in plan view, the first intermediate film 13 and the second intermediate film 14 are the frame film spacers 17 ( (see FIG. 7). In this case, the peripheral intermediate film 72 may or may not be provided.

(Modification 1-6)
FIG. 16 shows the layer structure of the light control device 10 according to Modification 1-6. In FIG. 16, an air gap G is provided between the first light control cell 20A and the second light control cell 20B. An antireflection layer 66 is provided on the surface of the first light control cell 20A facing the air gap G side and the surface of the second light control cell 20B facing the air gap G side. Each antireflection layer 66 is adhered to the light control cells 20A and 20B via an optically transparent adhesive film 67, respectively. The antireflection layer 66 reduces reflection of light at the interface between the dimming cells 20A and 20B, and its specific type and configuration are not particularly limited. Typically, the antireflection layer 66 is an anti-glare (AG) layer that can reduce specular reflection by diffusing incident light, and an anti-reflection (AR) layer that can suppress specular reflection using interference of reflected light. Anti Reflection) layer and at least one of a Low Reflection (LR) layer composed of a low reflectance material with low reflectance. Therefore, for example, the antireflection layer 66 may be composed of an AGLR (Anti Glare Low Reflection) layer composed of a combination of an antiglare layer and a low reflection layer. As the optically transparent adhesive film 67, a transparent adhesive sheet called OCA such as an acrylic adhesive can be used. By thus providing the antireflection layer 66 on each of the surfaces of the light control cells 20A and 20B facing the air gap G side, reflection of light at the interface between the light control cells 20A and 20B can be reduced. . The antireflection layer 66 must be provided on both the surface of the first light control cell 20A facing the air gap G side and the surface of the second light control cell 20B facing the air gap G side. may be provided in only one of these.

In FIG. 16, a peripheral intermediate film 72 (phantom line) may be provided between the first light control cell 20A and the second light control cell 20B and around the periphery of the light control cells 20A and 20B.

In FIG. 16, when the first intermediate film 13 and the second intermediate film 14 are larger than the light control cells 20A and 20B, the antireflection layer 66 and the optically transparent adhesive film 67 in plan view, the first intermediate film 13 and the second intermediate film 14 The intermediate films 14 may be connected to each other by a frame intermediate film 16 (see FIG. 6). In this case, the peripheral intermediate film 72 may or may not be provided.

In FIG. 16, when the first intermediate film 13 and the second intermediate film 14 are larger than the light control cells 20A and 20B, the antireflection layer 66 and the optically transparent adhesive film 67 in plan view, the first intermediate film 13 and the second intermediate film 14 The two intermediate films 14 may be connected to each other by a frame film spacer 17 (see FIG. 7). In this case, the peripheral intermediate film 72 may or may not be provided.

(Modification 1-7)
FIG. 17 shows the layer structure of the light control device 10 according to Modification 1-7. In FIG. 17, an air gap G is provided between the first light control cell 20A and the second light control cell 20B. Moth-eye layers 68 are provided on the surface of the first light control cell 20A facing the air gap G side and the surface of the second light control cell 20B facing the air gap G side. Each moth-eye layer 68 has a moth-eye structure and is attached to the light control cells 20A and 20B via an optically transparent adhesive film 67, respectively. The moth-eye layer 68 reduces reflection of light at the interface between the light control cells 20A and 20B, and its specific type and configuration are not particularly limited. Typically, the moth-eye layer 68 includes, as a structure for reducing reflected light, a concavo-convex structure in which a large number of fine protrusions are regularly arranged at intervals equal to or shorter than the shortest wavelength of the wavelength region of light for antireflection. As a result, the refractive index for incident light is continuously changed in the thickness direction, and the discontinuous interfaces of the refractive index are eliminated, thereby preventing the reflection of light. The configuration of the optically transparent adhesive film 67 is the same as that of Modification 1-6 described above. Thus, by providing the moth-eye layers 68 on the surfaces of the light control cells 20A and 20B facing the air gap G side, reflection of light at the interface between the light control cells 20A and 20B can be reduced. The moth-eye layer 68 does not necessarily need to be provided on both the surface of the first light control cell 20A facing the air gap G side and the surface of the second light control cell 20B facing the air gap G side. It may be provided in only one of these instead of being provided.

In FIG. 17, a peripheral intermediate film 72 (phantom line) may be provided between the first light control cell 20A and the second light control cell 20B and around the periphery of the light control cells 20A and 20B.

In FIG. 17, when the first intermediate film 13 and the second intermediate film 14 are larger than the light control cells 20A and 20B, the moth-eye layer 68 and the optical transparent adhesive film 67 in plan view, the first intermediate film 13 and the second intermediate film The films 14 may be connected to each other by a frame intermediate film 16 (see FIG. 6). In this case, the peripheral intermediate film 72 may or may not be provided.

17, when the first intermediate film 13 and the second intermediate film 14 are larger than the light control cells 20A and 20B, the moth-eye layer 68, and the optically transparent adhesive film 67 in plan view, the first intermediate film 13 and the second intermediate film 14 The intermediate films 14 may be connected to each other by frame film spacers 17 (see FIG. 7). In this case, the peripheral intermediate film 72 may or may not be provided.

(Modification 1-8)
FIG. 18 shows the layer structure of the light control device 10 according to Modification 1-8. The light control device 10 shown in FIG. 18 uses a polarizing plate 69 in place of the second light control cell 20B in the forms shown in FIGS. In this case, the first intermediate film 13 and the third intermediate film 15 each do not contain a plasticizer. On the other hand, since the second intermediate film 14 is not directly adjacent to the first light control cell 20A, it may contain a plasticizer or may not contain a plasticizer. The polarizing plate 69 includes a polarizing layer made up of members that perform a desired polarizing function. The polarizing layer is typically made by stretching PVA (polyvinyl alcohol) doped with an iodine compound. The polarizing plate 69 may include a protective layer in addition to the polarizing layer. This protective layer serves to protect the adjacent layers and can be made of any material that can transmit visible light, typically TAC (triacetyl cellulose) or acrylic. In this case, since the polarizing plate 69 is used instead of the second light control cell 20B, the degree of difficulty in processing the laminated glass is reduced, and the light control device 10 can be easily manufactured.

(Modification 1-9)
FIG. 19 shows the layer structure of the light control device 10 according to Modification 1-9. In the modification shown in FIG. 19 and the modification (modification 1-6) shown in FIG. 16, a polarizing plate 69 is used instead of the second light control cell 20B. In this case, the second intermediate film 14 may contain a plasticizer or may not contain a plasticizer. The structure of the antireflection layer 66 and the optically transparent adhesive film 67 is the same as that of Modification 1-6 (FIG. 16), and the structure of the polarizing plate 69 is the same as that of Modification 1-8 (FIG. 18). is. By using the polarizing plate 69 in place of the second light control cell 20B in this way, the degree of difficulty in processing the laminated glass can be reduced, and the light control device 10 can be easily manufactured.

(Second embodiment)
Next, referring to FIG. 20, a second embodiment will be described. FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional view showing the light control device according to the second embodiment. The second embodiment shown in FIG. 20 differs from the above-described first embodiment in that only one layer of the light control cell 20 is provided, and the other configuration is the same as that of the above-described first embodiment. is substantially the same as the form of In FIG. 20, the same reference numerals are assigned to the same parts as those in the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 to 18, and detailed description thereof will be omitted.

As shown in FIG. 20, the light control device 10 includes a first glass plate 11, a first intermediate film 13, a light control cell 20, a second intermediate film 14, and a second glass plate 12. . The first glass plate 11, the first intermediate film 13, the light control cell 20, the second intermediate film 14, and the second glass plate 12 are laminated in this order.

In the present embodiment, resin sheets containing no plasticizer are used as the first intermediate film 13 and the second intermediate film 14, respectively. The structures of the first intermediate film 13 and the second intermediate film 14 are the same as those of the first embodiment described above.

The light control cell 20 includes a film-like first laminate 21, a film-like second laminate 22, and a liquid crystal layer 23 disposed between the first laminate 21 and the second laminate 22. I have. Among these, the first laminate 21 has a first substrate 24 , a first transparent electrode 25 and a first orientation layer 26 . The second laminate 22 also has a second substrate 27 , a second transparent electrode 28 and a second alignment layer 29 . The first base material 24 and the second base material 27 are low retardation base materials with small optical anisotropy and low retardation. The configurations of the first base material 24 and the second base material 27 are the same as in the first embodiment described above.

In addition, the configuration of the light control cell 20 is the same as the configuration of the light control cells 20A and 20B in the first embodiment described above. In addition, the method of manufacturing the light control device 10 and the light control cell 20 is substantially the same as in the case of the above-described first embodiment, except that the light control cell 20 is a single layer (FIG. 8A). -(d) and FIGS. 9(a)-(e)).

According to this embodiment, the light control cell 20 includes a first substrate 24 and a second substrate 27, which are low retardation substrates. A first intermediate film 13 containing no plasticizer is provided between the first glass plate 11 and the light control cell 20, and a plasticizer is provided between the second glass plate 12 and the light control cell 20. A second intermediate film 14 is provided. Therefore, the low retardation substrates (the first substrate 24 and the second substrate 27) included in the light control cell 20 are eroded by the plasticizer included in the first intermediate film 13 or the second intermediate film 14. There is no Thereby, it is possible to suppress the occurrence of chemical cracks in the first base material 24 or the second base material 27 due to the influence of the plasticizer, and to provide the high-quality light control device 10 .

As shown in FIG. 21 , the first intermediate film 13 and the second intermediate film 14 may be connected to each other by the frame intermediate film 16 . The frame intermediate film 16 is made of the same material as the first intermediate film 13 and the second intermediate film 14 . In this case, entry of moisture or the like from the side surface of the light control device 10 can be suppressed, and the water impermeability of the light control device 10 can be further enhanced.

Specifically, when the first intermediate film 13 and the second intermediate film 14 are larger than the light control cell 20 (in plan view), the frame intermediate film 16 is thicker than the light control cell 20 in cross section. It is an intermediate film to be formed. The frame intermediate film 16 is formed around the light control cell 20 in plan view, and is a frame-shaped intermediate film obtained by hollowing out the shape of the light control cell 20 from the shapes of the first intermediate film 13 and the second intermediate film 14. . In FIG. 21 , a frame intermediate film 16 is formed between the first intermediate film 13 and the second intermediate film 14 and in a portion corresponding to the periphery of the light control cell 20 .

As shown in FIG. 22 , the first intermediate film 13 and the second intermediate film 14 may be connected to each other by a frame film spacer 17 . The frame film spacer 17 is a film substrate such as polyethylene terephthalate or COP provided at the same plane position as the frame intermediate film 16 . This frame film spacer 17 is made of a material different from that of the first intermediate film 13 and the second intermediate film 14 . In this case, entry of moisture or the like from the side surface of the light control device 10 can be suppressed, and the water impermeability of the light control device 10 can be further enhanced.

Specifically, when the first intermediate film 13 and the second intermediate film 14 are larger than the light control cell 20 in plan view, the frame film spacer 17 is formed in the thickness portion of the light control cell 20 in cross section. be done. The frame film spacer 17 is formed around the light control cell 20 in plan view, and has a frame shape obtained by hollowing out the shape of the light control cell 20 from the shapes of the first intermediate film 13 and the second intermediate film 14 . In FIG. 22 , a frame film spacer 17 is formed between the first intermediate film 13 and the second intermediate film 14 and in a portion corresponding to the periphery of the light control cell 20 .

(Modification)
Next, various modifications of the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 23 to 31. FIG. 23 to 31 are cross-sectional views each showing a light control device according to a modified example of this embodiment. Each modification shown in FIGS. 23 to 31 differs from the embodiment shown in FIG. 20 in the layer structure of the light control device 10 . In FIGS. 23 to 31, the same parts as those in the embodiment shown in FIG. 20 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed description thereof will be omitted.

(Modification 2-1)
FIG. 23 shows the layer structure of the light control device 10 according to Modification 2-1. In FIG. 23, the second intermediate film 14A has a melting point of 100° C. or less. As such a second intermediate film 14A, for example, a resin such as EVA (ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer) that does not contain a plasticizer can be used. The thickness of the second intermediate film 14A may be 100 μm or more and 1.5 mm or less. In this way, by using a material having a melting point of 100° C. or lower (low-melting point material) as the second intermediate film 14A, the first glass plate 11, the first intermediate film 13, the light control cell 20, the second The fluidity of the second intermediate film 14A can be enhanced by the heat applied to the laminate composed of the intermediate film 14A and the second glass plate 12. As shown in FIG. As a result, the thickness of the liquid crystal layer 23 in the light control cell 20 can be made uniform, and the occurrence of liquid crystal pools can be suppressed.

In FIG. 23, when the first intermediate film 13 and the second intermediate film 14A are larger than the light control cell 20 in plan view, the first intermediate film 13 and the second intermediate film 14A are similar to the frame intermediate film 16 (see FIG. 21). ) may be connected to each other. In this case, the material of the frame intermediate film 16 may be the same as the material of the first intermediate film 13 .

Alternatively, in FIG. 23, when the first intermediate film 13 and the second intermediate film 14A are larger than the light control cell 20 in plan view, the frame intermediate film 16 (see FIG. 21) made of the same material as the second intermediate film 14A ) may cover the sides of the dimming cell 20 .

Further, in FIG. 23, when the first intermediate film 13 and the second intermediate film 14A are larger than the light control cell 20 in plan view, the first intermediate film 13 and the second intermediate film 14A are the frame film spacers 17 (see FIG. 22 ) may be connected to each other.

(Modification 2-2)
FIG. 24 shows the layer structure of the light control device 10 according to Modification 2-2. In FIG. 24, a liquid layer 61 is provided between the light control cell 20 and the second intermediate film 14 . The configuration of this liquid layer 61 is the same as in the case of Modification 1-2 (FIG. 12) described above. By providing the liquid layer 61 between the light control cell 20 and the second intermediate film 14 in this manner, the liquid layer 61 can be made to flow during processing of the laminated glass. As a result, the thickness of the liquid crystal layer 23 in the light control cell 20 can be made uniform, and the occurrence of liquid crystal pools can be suppressed. Moreover, since the liquid layer 61 does not contain a plasticizer, chemical cracks are prevented from occurring in the first base material 24 or the second base material 27 due to the influence of the plasticizer.

In FIG. 24, when the first intermediate film 13 and the second intermediate film 14 are larger than the light control cell 20 and the liquid layer 61 in plan view, the first intermediate film 13 and the second intermediate film 14 are the frame intermediate film 16 (see FIG. 21).

Further, in FIG. 24, when the first intermediate film 13 and the second intermediate film 14 are larger than the light control cell 20 and the liquid layer 61 in plan view, the first intermediate film 13 and the second intermediate film 14 are the frame film spacers. 17 (see FIG. 22).

(Modification 2-3)
FIG. 25 shows the layer structure of the light control device 10 according to Modification 2-3. In FIG. 25, penetration-resistant intermediate films 62 are provided between the first glass plate 11 and the first intermediate film 13 and between the second glass plate 12 and the second intermediate film 14, respectively. The penetration-resistant intermediate film 62 improves the penetration resistance of the light control device 10 . The configuration of the penetration-resistant intermediate film 62 is the same as that of Modification 1-3 (FIG. 13) described above. By thus providing the penetration-resistant intermediate film 62 between the first glass plate 11 and the first intermediate film 13 and between the second glass plate 12 and the second intermediate film 14, The penetration resistance of the light control device 10 can be improved. The penetration-resistant intermediate film 62 need not be provided between the first glass plate 11 and the first intermediate film 13 and between the second glass plate 12 and the second intermediate film 14. may be provided in only one of them.

In FIG. 25, when each penetration-resistant intermediate film 62 is larger than the first intermediate film 13, the second intermediate film 14, and the light control cell 20 in plan view, the penetration-resistant intermediate film 62 on the first glass plate 11 side and the penetration-resistant intermediate film 62 on the second glass plate 12 side may be connected to each other by the frame intermediate film 16 (see FIG. 21). In this case, the material of the frame intermediate film 16 may be the same as the material of the penetration-resistant intermediate film 62 .

Alternatively, in FIG. 25, when each of the penetration-resistant intermediate film 62, the first intermediate film 13 and the second intermediate film 14 is larger than the light control cell 20 in plan view, the first intermediate film 13 and the second intermediate film 14 may be connected to each other by a frame intermediate film 16 (see FIG. 21).

25, when each penetration-resistant intermediate film 62 is larger than the first intermediate film 13, the second intermediate film 14, and the light control cell 20 in plan view, the penetration-resistant intermediate film on the first glass plate 11 side 62 and the penetration-resistant intermediate film 62 on the second glass plate 12 side may be connected to each other by a frame film spacer 17 (see FIG. 22).

Alternatively, in FIG. 25, when each of the penetration-resistant intermediate film 62, the first intermediate film 13 and the second intermediate film 14 is larger than the light control cell 20 in plan view, the first intermediate film 13 and the second intermediate film 14 may be connected to each other by frame film spacers 17 (see FIG. 22).

(Modification 2-4)
FIG. 26 shows the layer structure of the light control device 10 according to modification 2-4. In FIG. 26, between the first glass plate 11 and the first intermediate film 13 and between the second glass plate 12 and the second intermediate film 14, water-impervious intermediate films 63 are provided. The water-impermeable intermediate film 63 prevents moisture or the like from entering the interior of the light control device 10 . The structure of the water-impermeable intermediate film 63 is the same as that of Modification 1-4 (FIG. 14) described above. Thus, by providing the water-impervious intermediate film 63 between the first glass plate 11 and the first intermediate film 13 and between the second glass plate 12 and the second intermediate film 14, respectively, The waterproofness of the optical device 10 can be improved, and the inside of the light control device 10 can be protected from moisture and the like. The water-impervious intermediate film 63 on the first glass plate 11 side and the water-impervious intermediate film 63 on the second glass plate 12 side are connected to each other by the water-impervious frame intermediate film 64 . Also, the first intermediate film 13 and the second intermediate film 14 are connected to each other by the frame intermediate film 65 . As a result, entry of moisture or the like from the side surface of the light control device 10 can be suppressed, and the water impermeability of the light control device 10 can be further enhanced.

In addition, in FIG. 26, the frame intermediate film 65 may not necessarily be provided. In this case, the first intermediate film 13 and the second intermediate film 14 and the light control cell 20 have substantially the same size in a plan view, and the water-impermeable frame intermediate film 64 separates the water-impermeable intermediate film 63 on the first glass plate 11 side. and the water-impermeable intermediate film 63 on the second glass plate 12 side may be connected.

Further, in FIG. 26, the frame intermediate film 65 and the waterproof frame intermediate film 64 may not be provided. In this case, each water-impermeable intermediate film 63 is made larger than the first intermediate film 13, the second intermediate film 14, and the light control cell 20 in plan view, and the water-impermeable intermediate film 63 on the first glass plate 11 side and the second water-impermeable intermediate film 63 on the side of the first glass plate 11 The water-impervious intermediate film 63 on the glass plate 12 side may be connected to each other by a frame film spacer 17 (see FIG. 22).

(Modification 2-5)
FIG. 27 shows the layer structure of the light control device 10 according to Modification 2-5. In FIG. 27, an air gap G (space) is provided between the light control cell 20 and the second intermediate film 14, and the light control cell 20 and the second intermediate film 14 are not directly attached. Since the air gap G is provided between the light control cell 20 and the second intermediate film 14 in this manner, each liquid crystal layer 23 in the light control cell 20 can flow during processing of the laminated glass. As a result, the thickness of the liquid crystal layer 23 in the light control cell 20 can be made uniform, and the occurrence of liquid crystal pools can be suppressed. Moreover, the occurrence of chemical cracks in the first base material 24 or the second base material 27 due to the influence of the plasticizer is also prevented.

In FIG. 27, a peripheral intermediate film 72 (phantom line) may be provided between the light control cell 20 and the second intermediate film 14 and around the periphery of the light control cell 20 and the second intermediate film 14 . The material of the peripheral intermediate film 72 may be the same as the material of the first intermediate film 13 and the second intermediate film 14 . By providing the peripheral intermediate film 72, the air gap G between the light control cell 20 and the second intermediate film 14 can be maintained.

In FIG. 27, when the first intermediate film 13 and the second intermediate film 14 are larger than the light control cell 20 in plan view, the first intermediate film 13 and the second intermediate film 14 are similar to the frame intermediate film 16 (see FIG. 21). ) may be connected to each other. In this case, the peripheral intermediate film 72 may or may not be provided.

27, when the first intermediate film 13 and the second intermediate film 14 are larger than the light control cell 20 in plan view, the first intermediate film 13 and the second intermediate film 14 are the frame film spacers 17 (FIG. 22 ) may be connected to each other. In this case, the peripheral intermediate film 72 may or may not be provided.

(Modification 2-6)
FIG. 28 shows the layer structure of the light control device 10 according to Modification 2-6. In FIG. 28, in the modified example (modified example 2-5) shown in FIG. 27, an adhesion prevention film 71 is used on the surface of the second intermediate film 14 facing the air gap G side. This adhesion prevention film 71 prevents adhesion between the light control cell 20 and the second intermediate film 14 . As the anti-adhesion film 71, for example, a PET film substrate may be used. By using the adhesion prevention film 71 in this manner, the light control cell 20 and the second intermediate film 14 do not adhere to each other. As a result, each liquid crystal layer 23 in the light control cell 20 flows during processing of the laminated glass, so that the thickness of the liquid crystal layer 23 in the light control cell 20 can be made uniform and the occurrence of liquid crystal pools can be suppressed.

In FIG. 28 , a peripheral intermediate film 72 (phantom line) may be provided between the light control cell 20 and the adhesion prevention film 71 and around the periphery of the light control cell 20 and the adhesion prevention film 71 . The material of the peripheral intermediate film 72 may be the same as the material of the first intermediate film 13 and the second intermediate film 14 . By providing the peripheral intermediate film 72, the air gap G between the light control cell 20 and the anti-adhesion film 71 can be maintained.

In FIG. 28, when the first intermediate film 13 and the second intermediate film 14 are larger than the light control cell 20 and the adhesion prevention film 71 in plan view, the first intermediate film 13 and the second intermediate film 14 are the frame intermediate film 16 (see FIG. 21). In this case, the peripheral intermediate film 72 may or may not be provided.

In FIG. 28, when the first intermediate film 13 and the second intermediate film 14 are larger than the light control cell 20 and the adhesion prevention film 71 in plan view, the first intermediate film 13 and the second intermediate film 14 are the frame film. They may be connected to each other by spacers 17 (see FIG. 22). In this case, the peripheral intermediate film 72 may or may not be provided.

(Modification 2-7)
FIG. 29 shows the layer structure of the light control device 10 according to Modification 2-7. In FIG. 29, an air gap G is provided between the light control cell 20 and the second intermediate film 14 . Antireflection layers 66 are provided on the surface of the light control cell 20 facing the air gap G side and on the surface of the second intermediate film 14 facing the air gap G side. The antireflection layer 66 on the light control cell 20 side is attached to the light control cell 20 via an optically transparent adhesive film 67 . On the other hand, the antireflection layer 66 on the second intermediate film 14 side is directly attached to the second intermediate film 14 . This antireflection layer 66 reduces the reflection of light at the interfaces between the dimming cells 20 . The configurations of the antireflection layer 66 and the optically transparent adhesive film 67 are the same as those of Modification 1-6 (FIG. 16) described above. By providing the antireflection layer 66 between the light control cell 20 and the second intermediate film 14 in this way, reflection of light at the interface between the light control cell 20 and the second intermediate film 14 is reduced. be able to. The antireflection layer 66 does not necessarily need to be provided on both the surface of the light control cell 20 facing the air gap G side and the surface of the second intermediate film 14 facing the air gap G side. Only one of these may be provided.

In FIG. 29, a peripheral intermediate film 72 (phantom line ) may be provided. The material of the peripheral intermediate film 72 may be the same as the material of the first intermediate film 13 and the second intermediate film 14 . By providing the peripheral intermediate film 72, the air gap G between the antireflection layer 66 on the first intermediate film 13 side and the antireflection layer 66 on the second intermediate film 14 side can be maintained.

In FIG. 29, when the first intermediate film 13 and the second intermediate film 14 are larger than the light control cell 20, the antireflection layer 66 and the optically transparent adhesive film 67 in plan view, the first intermediate film 13 and the second intermediate film 14 may be connected to each other by a frame intermediate film 16 (see FIG. 21). In this case, the peripheral intermediate film 72 may or may not be provided.

29, when the first intermediate film 13 and the second intermediate film 14 are larger than the light control cell 20, the antireflection layer 66 and the optically transparent adhesive film 67 in plan view, the first intermediate film 13 and the second intermediate film The membranes 14 may be connected to each other by picture frame spacers 17 (see Figure 22). In this case, the peripheral intermediate film 72 may or may not be provided.

(Modification 2-8)
FIG. 30 shows the layer structure of the light control device 10 according to Modification 2-8. In FIG. 30, an air gap G is provided between the light control cell 20 and the second intermediate film 14 . A moth-eye layer 68 is provided on each of the surface of the light control cell 20 facing the air gap G side and the surface of the second intermediate film 14 facing the air gap G side. The moth-eye layer 68 on the light control cell 20 side is adhered to the light control cell 20 via an optically transparent adhesive film 67 . On the other hand, the moth-eye layer 68 on the second intermediate film 14 side is directly adhered to the second intermediate film 14 . The moth-eye layer 68 reduces light reflection at the interface between the dimming cells 20 . Incidentally, the configuration of the moth-eye layer 68 is the same as that of the modified example 1-7 (FIG. 17) described above. Thus, by providing the moth-eye layer 68 between the light control cell 20 and the second intermediate film 14, the reflection of light at the interface between the light control cell 20 and the second intermediate film 14 can be reduced. can be done. The moth-eye layer 68 is not necessarily provided on both the surface of the light control cell 20 facing the air gap G side and the surface of the second intermediate film 14 facing the air gap G side. may be provided in only one of them.

In FIG. 30, a peripheral intermediate film 72 (phantom line) is provided between the moth-eye layer 68 on the first intermediate film 13 side and the moth-eye layer 68 on the second intermediate film 14 side and at the periphery of these moth-eye layers 68. can be The material of the peripheral intermediate film 72 may be the same as the material of the first intermediate film 13 and the second intermediate film 14 . By providing the peripheral intermediate film 72, the air gap G between the moth-eye layer 68 on the first intermediate film 13 side and the moth-eye layer 68 on the second intermediate film 14 side can be maintained.

In FIG. 30, when the first intermediate film 13 and the second intermediate film 14 are larger than the light control cell 20, the optical transparent adhesive film 67 and the moth-eye layer 68 in plan view, the first intermediate film 13 and the second intermediate film 14 may be connected to each other by a frame intermediate film 16 (see FIG. 21). In this case, the peripheral intermediate film 72 may or may not be provided.

30, when the first intermediate film 13 and the second intermediate film 14 are larger than the light control cell 20, the optically transparent adhesive film 67 and the moth-eye layer 68 in plan view, the first intermediate film 13 and the second intermediate film 14 may be connected to each other by picture frame film spacers 17 (see FIG. 22). In this case, the peripheral intermediate film 72 may or may not be provided.

(Modification 2-9)
FIG. 31 shows the layer structure of the light control device 10 according to Modification 2-9. In FIG. 31, the second intermediate film 14 is not provided. An air gap G (space) is provided between the light control cell 20 and the second glass plate 12, and the light control cell 20 and the second glass plate 12 are not directly bonded. Since the air gap G is provided between the light control cell 20 and the second glass plate 12 in this way, each liquid crystal layer 23 in the light control cell 20 can flow during processing of the laminated glass. As a result, the thickness of the liquid crystal layer 23 in the light control cell 20 can be made uniform, and the occurrence of liquid crystal pools can be suppressed. Moreover, the occurrence of chemical cracks in the first base material 24 or the second base material 27 due to the influence of the plasticizer is also prevented.

In FIG. 31 , a peripheral intermediate film 72 (phantom line) may be provided between the light control cell 20 and the second glass plate 12 and around the periphery of the light control cell 20 and the second glass plate 12 . The material of the peripheral intermediate film 72 may be the same as the material of the first intermediate film 13 . By providing the peripheral intermediate film 72, the air gap G between the light control cell 20 and the second glass plate 12 can be maintained.

In FIG. 31, when the first intermediate film 13 is larger than the light control cell 20 in plan view, the first intermediate film 13 and the second glass plate 12 are connected to each other by the frame intermediate film 16 (see FIG. 21). Also good. In this case, the peripheral intermediate film 72 may or may not be provided.

31, when the first intermediate film 13 is larger than the light control cell 20 in plan view, the first intermediate film 13 and the second glass plate 12 are connected to each other by the frame film spacer 17 (see FIG. 22). can be In this case, the peripheral intermediate film 72 may or may not be provided.

It is also possible to appropriately combine a plurality of constituent elements disclosed in the above embodiments and modifications as necessary. Alternatively, some components may be deleted from all the components shown in each of the above embodiments and modifications.

REFERENCE SIGNS LIST 10 light control device 11 first glass plate 12 second glass plate 13 first intermediate film 14 second intermediate film 15 third intermediate film 20A first light control cell 20B second light control cell 21 first laminate 22 second laminate body 23 liquid crystal layer 24 first substrate 25 first transparent electrode 26 first alignment layer 27 second substrate 28 second transparent electrode 29 second alignment layer 31 bead spacer 32 sealing material 35 external electrode substrate 40 columnar spacer

Claims (21)

a first glass plate;
a second glass plate;
a first light control cell and a second light control cell arranged between the first glass plate and the second glass plate;
The first light control cell and the second light control cell include a low retardation base material having an in-plane retardation of 15 μm or less ,
A first intermediate film containing no plasticizer is provided between the first glass plate and the first light control cell,
A second intermediate film containing no plasticizer is provided between the second glass plate and the second light control cell,
The light control device, wherein the first intermediate film and the second intermediate film each contain one of polyvinyl butyral (PVB), ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer (EVA), and cycloolefin polymer (COP). 2. The light control device according to claim 1, wherein a third intermediate film containing no plasticizer is provided between said first light control cell and said second light control cell. The light control device according to claim 2, wherein the third intermediate film has a melting point of 100°C or less. 2. The light control device according to claim 1, wherein a liquid layer is provided between said first light control cell and said second light control cell. 3. A puncture-resistant intermediate film is provided between at least one of the first glass plate and the first intermediate film and between the second glass plate and the second intermediate film. 2. The light control device according to 1. 2. The method according to claim 1, wherein water-impervious intermediate films are provided between the first glass plate and the first intermediate film and between the second glass plate and the second intermediate film. dimmer. 2. The light control device according to claim 1, wherein an air gap is provided between said first light control cell and said second light control cell. An antireflection layer is provided on at least one of a surface of the first light control cell facing the air gap side and a surface of the second light control cell facing the air gap side. 8. The light control device according to 7. 8. A moth-eye layer is provided on at least one of a surface of the first light control cell facing the air gap side and a surface of the second light control cell facing the air gap side. The light control device as described in . a first glass plate;
a second glass plate;
a first light control cell and a polarizing plate disposed between the first glass plate and the second glass plate;
The first light control cell includes a low retardation substrate that is a substrate having an in-plane retardation of 15 μm or less ,
A first intermediate film containing no plasticizer is provided between at least the first glass plate and the first light control cell,
A second intermediate film is provided between the second glass plate and the polarizing plate,
The light control device, wherein the first intermediate film includes one of polyvinyl butyral (PVB), ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer (EVA), and cycloolefin polymer (COP). a first glass plate;
a second glass plate;
a light control cell disposed between the first glass plate and the second glass plate;
The light control cell includes a low retardation substrate that is a substrate having an in-plane retardation of 15 μm or less ,
A first intermediate film containing no plasticizer is provided between the first glass plate and the light control cell,
A second intermediate film containing no plasticizer is provided between the light control cell and the second glass plate,
The light control device, wherein the first intermediate film and the second intermediate film each contain one of polyvinyl butyral (PVB), ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer (EVA), and cycloolefin polymer (COP). The light control device according to claim 11, wherein said second intermediate film has a melting point of 100°C or less. The light control device according to claim 11, wherein a liquid layer is provided between said light control cell and said second intermediate film. 3. A puncture-resistant intermediate film is provided between at least one of the first glass plate and the first intermediate film and between the second glass plate and the second intermediate film. 12. The light control device according to 11. 12. The method according to claim 11, wherein water-impermeable intermediate films are provided between the first glass plate and the first intermediate film and between the second glass plate and the second intermediate film. dimmer. 12. The light control device according to claim 11, wherein an air gap is provided between said light control cell and said second intermediate film. 17. The method according to claim 16, wherein an antireflection layer is provided on at least one of a surface of the light control cell facing the air gap side and a surface of the second intermediate film facing the air gap side. dimmer. 17. The light control system according to claim 16, wherein a moth-eye layer is provided on at least one of a surface of the light control cell facing the air gap side and a surface of the light control cell facing the air gap side. light device. a first glass plate;
a second glass plate;
a light control cell disposed between the first glass plate and the second glass plate;
The light control cell includes a low retardation substrate that is a substrate having an in-plane retardation of 15 μm or less ,
A first intermediate film containing no plasticizer is provided between the first glass plate and the light control cell,
An air gap is provided between the dimming cell and the second glass plate,
The light control device, wherein the first intermediate film includes one of polyvinyl butyral (PVB), ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer (EVA), and cycloolefin polymer (COP). providing a first dimming cell and a second dimming cell;
preparing a first glass plate and a second glass plate;
sandwiching the first light control cell and the second light control cell using the first glass plate and the second glass plate;
a step of integrally joining the first glass plate, the first light control cell, the second light control cell, and the second glass plate;
The first light control cell and the second light control cell include a low retardation base material having an in-plane retardation of 15 μm or less ,
A first intermediate film containing no plasticizer is provided between the first glass plate and the first light control cell,
A second intermediate film containing no plasticizer is provided between the second glass plate and the second light control cell,
The method of manufacturing a light control device, wherein the first intermediate film and the second intermediate film each contain one of polyvinyl butyral (PVB), ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer (EVA), and cycloolefin polymer (COP). preparing a dimming cell;
preparing a first glass plate and a second glass plate;
sandwiching the light control cell using the first glass plate and the second glass plate;
a step of integrally bonding the first glass plate, the light control cell, and the second glass plate;
The light control cell includes a low retardation substrate that is a substrate having an in-plane retardation of 15 μm or less ,
A first intermediate film containing no plasticizer is provided between the first glass plate and the light control cell,
A second intermediate film containing no plasticizer is provided between the light control cell and the second glass plate,
The method of manufacturing a light control device, wherein the first intermediate film and the second intermediate film each contain one of polyvinyl butyral (PVB), ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer (EVA), and cycloolefin polymer (COP).

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