U.S. patent application number 15/776200 was filed with the patent office on 2019-09-26 for lighting sytems for windows having plastic glazing.
The applicant listed for this patent is SABIC Global Technologies B.V.. Invention is credited to Augustinus Gregorius Henricus MEIJERS, Geert Jan SCHELLEKENS, Matteo TERRAGNI.
Application Number | 20190293255 15/776200 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 58709499 |
Filed Date | 2019-09-26 |
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United States Patent
Application |
20190293255 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
MEIJERS; Augustinus Gregorius
Henricus ; et al. |
September 26, 2019 |
LIGHTING SYTEMS FOR WINDOWS HAVING PLASTIC GLAZING
Abstract
A plastic glazing of a window of a vehicle having a light
feature includes a first vehicle window glazing component, a second
vehicle window glazing component molded onto the first vehicle
window glazing component, and a light unit configured to produce
light for the light feature. The light unit being integrated with
at least one of the following: the first vehicle window glazing
component and the second vehicle window glazing component. The
light unit further configured to direct the light for the light
feature through or from at least one of the following: the first
vehicle window glazing component and the second vehicle window
glazing component. The plastic glazing is a one-piece molded
plastic construction. At least one of the first vehicle window
glazing component and the second vehicle window glazing component
is translucent or transparent
Inventors: |
MEIJERS; Augustinus Gregorius
Henricus; (Breda, NL) ; TERRAGNI; Matteo;
(Misinto MB, IT) ; SCHELLEKENS; Geert Jan; (Gliz,
NL) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
SABIC Global Technologies B.V. |
Bergen op Zoom |
|
NL |
|
|
Family ID: |
58709499 |
Appl. No.: |
15/776200 |
Filed: |
November 21, 2016 |
PCT Filed: |
November 21, 2016 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/IB2016/057013 |
371 Date: |
May 15, 2018 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
62258648 |
Nov 23, 2015 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
F21S 43/237 20180101;
B29K 2995/0026 20130101; B60Q 3/76 20170201; G02B 6/001 20130101;
B60Q 3/20 20170201; F21S 43/245 20180101; B29L 2031/30 20130101;
B60Q 3/74 20170201; B60J 1/20 20130101; B60Q 3/30 20170201; B60Q
1/268 20130101; B60Q 1/323 20130101; B60Q 1/44 20130101; B60Q 3/208
20170201; B29C 45/16 20130101; B29C 45/00 20130101; B60Q 1/26
20130101; B60Q 1/34 20130101 |
International
Class: |
F21S 43/245 20060101
F21S043/245; B60Q 1/26 20060101 B60Q001/26; B60Q 3/20 20060101
B60Q003/20; B60J 1/20 20060101 B60J001/20; F21V 8/00 20060101
F21V008/00; F21S 43/237 20060101 F21S043/237; B29C 45/16 20060101
B29C045/16 |
Claims
1. A plastic glazing of a window of a vehicle having a light
feature, the plastic glazing comprising: a first vehicle window
glazing component; a second vehicle window glazing component molded
onto the first vehicle window glazing component; a light unit
configured to produce light for the light feature, the light unit
being integrated with at least one of the following: the first
vehicle window glazing component and the second vehicle window
glazing component; and the light unit further configured to direct
the light for the light feature through or from at least one of the
following: the first vehicle window glazing component and the
second vehicle window glazing component, wherein the plastic
glazing is of one-piece molded plastic construction; and wherein at
least one of the first vehicle window glazing component and the
second vehicle window glazing component is translucent or
transparent.
2. The plastic glazing of claim 1, wherein the light unit is
supported on at least one of the following: the first vehicle
window glazing component and the second vehicle window glazing
component, wherein the window comprises at least one of the
following: a front window, a side window, a rear quarter window, a
rear window, a front quarter window, and a panoramic window.
3. The plastic glazing of claim 1, wherein the plastic glazing is
attached to a housing unit that is configured to support the light
unit, wherein the housing unit comprises a fiber-reinforced
polymer.
4. The plastic glazing of claim 1, further comprising a light guide
configured to receive the light from the light unit, wherein the
light guide is configured to one of the following: emit the
received light along a length thereof to provide the light feature,
deliver the light to an end thereof to provide the light feature
internally within the vehicle, and deliver the light to an end
thereof to provide the light feature externally from the
vehicle.
5. The plastic glazing of claim 4, further comprising molded
components configured to hold the light guide, wherein the molded
components are molded in at least one of the following: the first
vehicle window glazing component and the second vehicle window
glazing component.
6. The plastic glazing of claim 4, further comprising a light
blocking mechanism configured to block light emitted from the light
guide in a first position and allow light to be emitted from the
light guide in a second position.
7. The plastic glazing of claim 4, wherein a portion of one or more
of the first vehicle window glazing component and the second
vehicle window glazing component forms a lens and the light unit is
configured to emit light through the lens and also emit light
through the light guide for the light feature.
8. The plastic glazing of claim 1, wherein at least one of the
first vehicle window glazing component and the second vehicle
window glazing component comprises a surface configured to diffuse,
scatter, or reflect light received from the light unit, wherein the
surface comprises at least one of the following: a textured surface
and a laser marked surface.
9. The plastic glazing of claim 1, wherein the light unit comprises
light emitting diodes (LEDs) and the LEDs are molded in at least
one of the following: the first vehicle window glazing component
and the second vehicle window glazing component.
10. The plastic glazing of claim 1, wherein the light feature
comprises at least one of the following: a side signature light, an
outside light, a side marker light, a park mode light, a roof
pillar light, a rear quarter window light, a welcome light, an
interior reading light, an individual customizable light, an
ambient light, a cargo light, a panoramic roof light, a brake
light, a turn signal light, a running light, a reverse light, a fog
light, and a security light.
11. A process of manufacturing a plastic glazing of a window of a
vehicle having a light feature, the process comprising: molding a
first vehicle window glazing component; molding a second vehicle
window glazing component molded onto the first vehicle window
glazing component; integrating a light unit configured to produce
light for the light feature with at least one of the following: the
first vehicle window glazing component and the second vehicle
window glazing component; and arranging the light unit to direct
the light for the light feature through or from at least one of the
following: the first vehicle window glazing component and the
second vehicle window glazing component, wherein at least one of
the first vehicle window glazing component and the second vehicle
window glazing component is translucent or transparent.
12. The process of claim 11, wherein the light unit is supported on
at least one of the following: the first vehicle window glazing
component and the second vehicle window glazing component, wherein
the window comprises at least one of the following: a front window,
a side window, a rear quarter window, a rear window, a front
quarter window, and a panoramic window.
13. The process of claim 11, wherein the plastic glazing is
attached to a housing unit that is configured to support the light
unit, wherein the housing unit comprises a fiber-reinforced
polymer.
14. The process of claim 11, further comprising providing a light
guide configured to receive light from the light unit, wherein the
light guide is configured to one of the following: emit the
received light along a length thereof to provide the light feature,
deliver the light to an end thereof to provide the light feature
internally within the vehicle, and deliver the light to an end
thereof to provide the light feature externally from the
vehicle.
15. The process of claim 14, further comprising molding components
configured to hold the light guide, wherein the components are
molded in at least one of the following: the first vehicle window
glazing component and the second vehicle window glazing
component.
16. The process of claim 14, further comprising arranging a light
blocking mechanism configured to block light emitted from the light
guide in a first position and allow light to be emitted from the
light guide in a second position.
17. The process of claim 14, wherein a portion of one or more of
the first vehicle window glazing component and the second vehicle
window glazing component forms a lens and the light unit is
configured to emit light through the lens and also emit light
through the light guide for the light feature.
18. The process of claim 11, wherein at least one of the first
vehicle window glazing component and the second vehicle window
glazing component comprises a surface configured to diffuse,
scatter, or reflect light received from the light unit, wherein the
surface comprises at least one of the following: a textured surface
and a laser marked surface.
19. The process of claim 11, wherein the light unit comprises light
emitting diodes (LEDs) and the process further includes molding the
LEDs into at least one of the following: the first vehicle window
glazing component and the second vehicle window glazing
component.
20. The process of claim 11, wherein the light feature comprises at
least one of the following: a side signature light, an outside
light, a side marker light, a park mode light, a roof pillar light,
a rear quarter window light, a welcome light, an interior reading
light, an individual customizable light, an ambient light, a cargo
light, a panoramic roof light, a brake light, a turn signal light,
a running light, a reverse light, a fog light, and a security
light.
Description
BACKGROUND
Technical Field
[0001] The present disclosure relates to lighting systems for
vehicle windows having plastic glazing.
Technical Background
[0002] Vehicles such as sedans, coupes, sports utility vehicles,
vans, hatchbacks, and the like typically include one or more of
front, side, quarter and rear window structures. Moreover, such
vehicles include one or more light assemblies (e.g., a brake light,
a puddle light). These parts and other parts may add to the cost
and complexity of assembling a vehicle.
[0003] In this regard, light assemblies in vehicles include a large
number of separate components. For example, a typical vehicle may
have several different types of lights, including, for example,
parking lights, turn indicator lights, brake lights, and the like.
Each of these lights may be made from many parts. These parts add
to the cost and complexity of assembling a vehicle. Accordingly, as
recognized in U.S. Pat. No. 7,048,423 ("the '423 Patent"), it
desirable to have a lighting assembly with fewer parts. The '423
Patent discloses an integrated light assembly including a plurality
of lamps 210, 216 enclosed in a housing 202, which may serve as a
lens for the lamps, and mounted on a substrate 204. Such portions
of a light assembly may add to the overall weight of a vehicle, and
the overall complexity and cost of manufacturing and assembling a
vehicle. The above-noted problems with conventional light
assemblies are compounded by recent trends to increase the number
of lights provided on vehicles. For example, lights provided for
aesthetic purposes and utility purposes.
[0004] The present disclosure aims to solve these problems and
other problems in the prior art.
SUMMARY
[0005] In accordance with the purpose(s) of the disclosure, as
embodied and broadly described herein, this disclosure, in one
aspect, relates to vehicle components, including windows and
lighting systems of windows with plastic glazing.
[0006] In one aspect, a plastic glazing of a window of a vehicle
having a light feature includes a first vehicle window glazing
component, a second vehicle window glazing component molded onto
the first vehicle window glazing component, a light unit configured
to produce light for the light feature, the light unit being
integrated with at least one of the following: the first vehicle
window glazing component and the second vehicle window glazing
component, and the light unit further configured to direct the
light for the light feature through or from at least one of the
following: the first vehicle window glazing component and the
second vehicle window glazing component, wherein the plastic
glazing is of one-piece molded plastic construction, and wherein at
least one of the first vehicle window glazing component and the
second vehicle window glazing component is translucent or
transparent.
[0007] Another aspect, a process of manufacturing a plastic glazing
of a window of a vehicle having a light feature includes molding a
first vehicle window glazing component, molding a second vehicle
window glazing component molded onto the first vehicle window
glazing component, integrating a light unit configured to produce
light for the light feature with at least one of the following: the
first vehicle window glazing component and the second vehicle
window glazing component, and arranging the light unit to direct
the light for the light feature through or from at least one of the
following: the first vehicle window glazing component and the
second vehicle window glazing component wherein at least one of the
first vehicle window glazing component and the second vehicle
window glazing component is translucent or transparent.
[0008] Additional aspects of the disclosure will be set forth in
part in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious
from the description, or can be learned by practice of the
disclosure. The advantages of the disclosure will be realized and
attained by means of the elements and combinations particularly
pointed out in the appended claims. It is to be understood that
both the foregoing general description and the following detailed
description are exemplary and explanatory only and are not
restrictive of the disclosure, as claimed.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0009] The foregoing summary, as well as the following detailed
description, is better understood when read in conjunction with the
appended drawings. There is shown in the drawings exemplary
aspects, and the present disclosure is not intended to be limited
to the specific aspects and methods disclosed.
[0010] FIG. 1 illustrates a vehicle having windows constructed with
plastic glazing having light assemblies according to an aspect of
the present disclosure.
[0011] FIG. 2 illustrates a front view of a first exemplary plastic
glazing of a window in accordance with an aspect of the present
disclosure.
[0012] FIG. 3 illustrates a front view of a housing unit in
accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure.
[0013] FIG. 4 illustrates a back view of a first exemplary window
glazing depicted in FIG. 2 with a lighting system in accordance
with an aspect of the present disclosure.
[0014] FIG. 5 is a partial cross-sectional view of the first
exemplary window glazing depicted in FIG. 4 with a lighting system
in accordance with an aspect of the present disclosure.
[0015] FIG. 6 illustrates a front view of a second exemplary window
glazing with a lighting system in accordance with an aspect of the
present disclosure.
[0016] FIG. 7 illustrates a third exemplary window glazing with a
lighting system in accordance with an aspect of the present
disclosure.
[0017] FIG. 8 illustrates a partial cross-sectional view of a first
aspect of FIG. 7.
[0018] FIG. 9 illustrates a partial cross-sectional view of a
second aspect of FIG. 7.
DESCRIPTION
[0019] Aspects of the disclosure will now be described in detail
with reference to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals
designate identical or corresponding parts throughout the several
views, unless specified otherwise.
[0020] Devices and methods disclosed herein provide a window having
a plastic glazing having a one-piece monolithic construction. The
window may support a light assembly attached to the window using
integrated fasteners, separate fasteners, screws, other connectors,
or an adhesive. The light assembly may provide a lighted feature
providing aesthetic and/or utility functions. In order to reduce
the number of separate components of a vehicle, devices and methods
disclosed herein may provide an integrated window assembly
including and/or integrating one or more other vehicle components.
For example, systems and methods disclosed herein may provide a
window having a plastic glazing. The plastic glazing of the window
may be constructed of a thermoplastic polymer including a portion
that is clear. In other devices and methods disclosed herein,
additional vehicle components may also be included in the plastic
glazing. Such components may include, for example, a colored
translucent portion for a light unit; a cavity and fixation unit
(e.g., a threaded hole, a hook or clip) for supporting a light
unit; a textured and/or raised region for a logo or other marking;
and the like.
[0021] Devices and methods disclosed herein may also provide a
method of manufacturing a window or, specifically, a plastic
glazing of a window. Such systems and methods may provide a method
of producing a plastic glazing using multi-shot injection molding
techniques. The method further includes providing a light assembly
attached to the window using integrated fasteners, separate
fasteners, screws, other connectors, or an adhesive. The light
assembly may provide a lighted feature providing aesthetic and/or
utility functions. In certain aspects of the disclosure, a plastic
glazing of a window may be formed via a two-shot injection molding
process. In a first shot, a clear thermoplastic polymer may be
injected to form a shell or outline of the plastic glazing. In a
second shot, a colored thermoplastic polymer may be injected to
form one or more colored regions in the plastic glazing.
[0022] FIG. 1 illustrates a vehicle having windows constructed with
plastic glazing and light assemblies according to an aspect of the
present disclosure. In particular, FIG. 1 illustrates a vehicle 10
having one or more of a front window 12 or windshield, side windows
20, rear quarter windows 18, a rear window 16, front quarter
windows 22, and a panoramic window 14 also known as a moonroof,
sunroof, and the like. Other types of windows are contemplated as
well for different types of vehicles.
[0023] One or more of the Windows 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22 of the
vehicle 10 may include light assemblies that generate a light
feature 50. The light assemblies may be implemented to provide the
light feature 50 with aesthetic and/or utility functions. In one
aspect, the light assembly may provide the light feature 50 with a
warning light for pedestrians or other drivers. In one aspect, the
light assembly may provide the light feature 50 with a side
signature light based on a design influence and/or may be
associated with a brand identity. In one aspect, the light assembly
may provide the light feature 50 with a welcome or courtesy light
configured to light the surroundings of the vehicle 10. In one
aspect, the light assembly may provide the light feature 50 with an
outside light that lights the exterior of the vehicle as the driver
approaches and operates a key fob. In one aspect, the light
assembly may provide the light feature 50 with an interior reading
light providing additional light for the driver or passengers. In
one aspect, the light assembly may provide the light feature 50
with an individual customizable light that is configured to be
customizable by the driver. In one aspect, the light assembly may
provide the light feature 50 with light operating in response to
connectivity to other vehicles or drivers providing a gesture or
wink to the same.
[0024] In one aspect, the light assembly may provide the light
feature 50 with a side marker light. For example, the side marker
light may be red or amber. In one aspect, lighting functions
indicating remaining battery charge of an electric vehicle or a
hybrid electric vehicle or other novel functions may be implemented
using a marker light in different colors such as green, blue or the
like. In one aspect, the light assembly may provide the light
feature 50 with a reflex reflector that includes light reflected by
total internal reflection. In one aspect, the light assembly may
provide the light feature 50 with a private color/shadow effect
that is customizable. In one aspect, the light assembly may provide
the light feature 50 with a chameleon effect that generates a color
or colors as desired. In one aspect, the light assembly may provide
the light feature 50 with a flash line having plural flashing
lights.
[0025] In one aspect, the light assembly may provide the light
feature 50 with an in-molded micro images and/or macro images. In
one aspect, the light assembly may provide the light feature 50
with an ambient light that may be arranged inside of cockpit/cabin
of the vehicle 10. In one aspect, the light assembly may provide
the light feature 50 with a cargo light in a cargo section of the
vehicle 10. In one aspect, the light assembly may provide the light
feature 50 with a park mode light. In one aspect, the light
assembly may provide the light feature 50 with a caution light, for
instance to signal an opened door. In one aspect, the light
assembly may provide the light feature 50 with a local laser
marking. In one aspect, the light assembly may provide the light
feature 50 with a solid (i.e. white) 2K (two component molding that
may include different colors, different transparencies, different
materials, and the like) area. In one aspect, the light assembly
may provide the light feature 50 with a surface texturing, a laser
marking, a local painting, an inkjet printing, or the like. In one
aspect, the light assembly may provide the light feature 50 with a
transparent or diffused 2K area. In one aspect, the light assembly
may provide the light feature 50 on an aerodynamic spoiler. In one
aspect, the light assembly may provide the light feature 50 on a
roof pillar. In one aspect, the light assembly may provide the
light feature 50 on a D pillar. In one aspect, the light assembly
may provide the light feature 50 on a panoramic roof. In one
aspect, the light assembly may provide the light feature 50 with a
photochromic light. In one aspect, the light assembly may provide
the light feature 50 with a 3K (three component molding that may
include different colors, different transparencies, different
materials, and the like) rear quarter window design feature that
may be implemented with a first component glazing, second component
housing and a third component design feature. In one aspect, the
light assembly may provide the light feature 50 with a security
light. In one aspect, the light assembly may provide the light
feature 50 with a colored light in accordance with certain
international standards governing vehicle lighting such as, for
example, ECE Regulation No. 48 and SAE Standard J578. In one
aspect, the light assembly may provide the light feature 50 with a
light defined in ECE Regulation No. 48. In one aspect, the light
assembly may provide the light feature 50 with a brake light, a
turn signal light, a running light, a reverse light, a fog light
and/or the like.
[0026] FIG. 2 illustrates a front view of a first exemplary plastic
glazing of a window in accordance with an aspect of the present
disclosure. Referring now to FIG. 2, an exemplary plastic glazing
100 of a window of a vehicle is depicted. The plastic glazing 100
may be a one-piece monolithic structure formed of one or more
thermoplastic polymers. Examples of suitable thermoplastic polymers
include: polycarbonate, polyester carbonate, poly methyl
methacrylate, and the like. According to one aspect of the
disclosure, the plastic glazing 100 may be formed of a
polycarbonate. The plastic glazing 100 can have an outer surface
that is seamless, i.e., lacking any visual openings, junctions,
disruptions, interruptions, gaps, or the like. The rectangular
shape of the plastic glazing 100 is merely exemplary, the plastic
glazing 100 may be implemented with any window shape. The shape of
the plastic glazing may be flat, but it may also be curved to
various degrees of complexity in three dimensions.
[0027] The plastic glazing 100 may be implemented in any type of
window including the front window 12 or windshield of a vehicle,
the side windows 20 of a vehicle, rear quarter windows 18 of a
vehicle, a rear window 16 of a vehicle, front quarter windows 22,
and a panoramic window 14 of a vehicle, and the like. Other types
of windows are contemplated for different types of vehicles. The
plastic glazing 100 also includes a clear transparent portion 108
that functions as a window of the vehicle 10. The plastic glazing
100 may include a portion 110. The portion 110 may be colored,
translucent, non-transparent (i.e. opaque) and may be strategically
placed to hide one or more structures positioned behind the plastic
glazing 100.
[0028] With further reference to FIG. 2, the plastic glazing 100
may be further configured to externally emit light from the vehicle
10 associated with the light feature 50. Light from the light
feature 50 may be emitted through the clear transparent portion 108
and/or the portion 110. In one aspect, the plastic glazing 100 may
be configured to internally emit light within the vehicle 10
associated with the light feature 50.
[0029] FIG. 3 illustrates a housing unit in accordance with an
aspect of the present disclosure. Referring now to FIG. 3, the
housing unit 200 may be formed of a fiber-reinforced polymer.
According to a preferred aspect of the disclosure, the housing unit
200 may be formed of a long-glass fiber-reinforced polypropylene
such as, for example, SABIC.RTM. STAMAX.TM. plastic. The housing
unit 200 may include a frame portion 202 and opening 204.
[0030] The plastic glazing 100 may be secured to the housing unit
200 using an adhesive and/or a mechanical fastening system (e.g., a
screw, bolt, and/or clip fastening system). The mechanical
fastening system may be integrated in the molded parts or separate.
The adhesive used may be a commercially available adhesive that is
typically used in the automotive industry for the adhesive bonding
of plastic components. Such adhesives may include, for example, wet
adhesives, tape-based adhesives, contact adhesives, hot-melt
adhesives, reaction adhesives or the like. The thickness of the
adhesive required may vary depending on the specific geometries of
the plastic glazing 100 and the housing unit 200. When the adhesive
is a hot-melt adhesive that can be processed under thermoplastic
conditions, it may be possible to bond the plastic glazing 100, the
housing unit 200, and the hot-melt adhesive together during a
multi-shot injection molding process. In some aspects, the
disclosure contemplates implementation without the housing unit
200.
[0031] As depicted in FIG. 3, the housing unit 200 may include one
or more cavities for receiving a light unit 214. In particular, the
housing unit 200 may include a cavity 212 for receiving the light
unit 214. The light unit 214 can be fixed directly in the housing
unit 200 via access doors, using mechanical fasteners that are
integrated in the molded parts or separate (e.g., screw, bolt, and
the like), adhesive and/or the like. The cavity 212 can prevent
light from the light unit 214 from bleeding outside of a confined
space. As such, additional cavities (not depicted) may be formed
next to the cavity 212 for holding additional light units 214, and
the cavities would prevent the light generated by one light unit
214 from bleeding into a space reserved for another light unit
214.
[0032] In another aspect, the light unit 214 may be attached
externally to the housing unit 200. The light unit 214 can be fixed
directly onto the housing unit 200 via access doors, using
mechanical fasteners that are integrated in the molded parts or
separate (e.g., screw, bolt, and the like), adhesive and/or the
like.
[0033] In a particular aspect, the light unit 214 may be molded
into the housing unit 200 and/or the light unit 214 may be
over-molded onto the housing unit 200. In this regard, the light
unit 214 may be arranged in the housing unit 200 such that light is
emitted through the plastic glazing 100. For example, the light
unit 214 may be implemented as one or more light emitting diodes
(LEDs). Control and power wiring may be molded into the housing
unit 200. Other types of lighting units are contemplated as well.
In this aspect, the light unit 214 may be able to generate a light
feature 50 as described above with reduced packaging space compared
to traditional lighting solutions.
[0034] In another aspect, the light unit 214 may be molded into the
plastic glazing 100 and/or the light unit 214 may be over-molded
onto the plastic glazing 100. In this regard, the light unit 214
may be arranged in the plastic glazing 100 such that light is
emitted through the plastic glazing 100. For example, the light
unit 214 may be implemented as one or more light emitting diodes
(LEDs). Control and power wiring may be molded into the plastic
glazing 100. Other types of lighting units are contemplated as
well. In this aspect, the light unit 214 may be able to generate a
light feature 50 as described above with reduced packaging space
compared to traditional lighting solutions. In a further aspect,
the plastic glazing 100 may provide a hermetically sealed
encapsulation of the light unit 214 including the LEDs. The light
unit 214 may further include electronic circuitry that includes
conductive traces within the plastic glazing 100. The electronic
circuitry may thereby effectively form a printed circuit board
(PCB), or part thereof, within the plastic glazing 100. The LEDs of
the light unit 214 may be coupled to the conductive traces to
provide power and signaling to effectuate activation and/or
deactivation of the LEDs of the light unit 214 via the conductive
traces and may be controlled by dedicated hardware as defined
herein. In a further aspect, the housing unit 200 may provide a
hermetically sealed encapsulation of the light unit 214 including
the LEDs in a manner similar to the encapsulation with respect to
the plastic glazing 100 described above. In yet a further aspect,
the housing unit 200 and the plastic glazing 100 may provide a
hermetically sealed encapsulation of the light unit 214 including
the LEDs in a manner similar to the encapsulation with respect to
the plastic glazing 100 described above.
[0035] FIG. 4 illustrates a first exemplary window glazing depicted
in FIG. 1 with a lighting system in accordance with an aspect of
the present disclosure; and FIG. 5 is a partial cross-sectional
view of the first exemplary window glazing depicted in FIG. 4 with
a lighting system in accordance with an aspect of the present
disclosure. In particular, FIG. 4 shows the cavity 212 arranged in
or below the plastic glazing 100 having a light unit 214 arranged
therein. The light unit 214 may further include power and signal
connections (not shown) that may be arranged within the housing
unit 200.
[0036] In one aspect, the light unit 214 may be molded into the
housing unit 200, molded into the plastic glazing 100, or both. In
one aspect, the light unit 214 may be arranged into a molded cavity
212 of the housing unit 200, arranged into a molded cavity in the
plastic glazing 100, or both. In one aspect, the light unit 214 may
be attached to the housing unit 200, attached to the plastic
glazing 100, or both.
[0037] The light unit 214 may generate and provide light to a light
guide 402. The light guide 402 may extend across the plastic
glazing 100 on the portion 110. Alternatively or additionally, the
light guide 402 may extend across the clear transparent portion
108. Alternatively or additionally, the light guide 402 may extend
across the housing unit 200.
[0038] The light guide 402 may receive light from the light unit
214. The light guide 402 may be configured to transmit the light
from the light unit 214 and deliver the light to a predetermined
location for providing the light feature 50. In this regard, the
light guide 402 may be configured to simply deliver the light to an
end portion thereof.
[0039] Alternatively or additionally, the light guide 402 may be
configured to emit the light along its length as the light feature
50. The light guide 402 is shown with a linear or straight
construction. However, the light guide 402 may have any desired
shape to provide the light feature 50 as desired.
[0040] As shown in FIG. 5, the light guide 402 may be held by
molded components 502. The molded components 502 may be
manufactured in the same molding shot as the portion 110 thus
reducing manufacturing complexity and cost. The molded components
502 may extend from the portion 110 and terminate with hook
portions as shown in FIG. 5. Other constructions of the molded
components 502 configured to hold the light guide 402 are
contemplated as well. Alternatively, the light guide 402 may be
simply attached to the portion 110 with adhesive, mechanical
fasteners, or the like. The mechanical fasteners may be integrated
in the molded parts or separate (e.g., screw, bolt, and the
like).
[0041] In another aspect, the light guide 402 may be held by molded
components 502 arranged on the housing unit 200. The molded
components 502 may be manufactured in the same molding shot as the
housing unit 200 thus reducing manufacturing complexity and cost.
The molded components 502 may extend from the housing unit 200 and
terminate with hook portions. Other constructions of the molded
components 502 configured to hold the light guide 402 are
contemplated as well. Alternatively, the light guide 402 may be
simply attached to the housing unit 200 with adhesive, mechanical
fasteners, or the like. The mechanical fasteners may be integrated
in the molded parts or separate (e.g., screw, bolt, and the
like).
[0042] FIG. 6 illustrates a second exemplary window glazing with a
lighting system in accordance with an aspect of the present
disclosure. In particular, FIG. 6 shows the cavity 212 arranged in
and/or below the plastic glazing 100 having the light unit 214
arranged therein. The light unit 214 may further include power and
signal connections (not shown) that may be arranged within the
housing unit 200 and/or the plastic glazing 100. In one aspect, the
light unit 214 may be molded into the housing unit 200, molded into
the plastic glazing 100, or both. In one aspect, the light unit 214
may be arranged into a molded cavity 212 of the housing unit 200,
arranged into a molded cavity in the plastic glazing 100, or both.
In one aspect, the light unit 214 may be attached to the housing
unit 200, attached to the plastic glazing 100, or both.
[0043] The light unit 214 may emit light within the clear
transparent portion 108 through an edge adjacent to the cavity 212.
Alternatively or additionally, the light unit 214 may be arranged
such that it emits light onto a surface of the clear transparent
portion 108. In either case, the light will be transmitted to a
portion 604 on the clear transparent portion 108. The portion 604
may include an image 608 and/or text 606 that receive the light
emitted from the light unit 214. The image 608 and/or the text 606
may be formed by a laser marked image or a textured surface. In
either case, the image 608 and/or the text 606 may receive the
light emitted from the light unit 214 and illuminate the image 608
and/or the text 606 due to the laser marking or textured surface.
In one aspect, the image 608 and/or the text 606 may receive the
light emitted from the light unit 214 and scatter, diffuse, and/or
reflect the light in order to illuminate the image 608 and/or the
text 606 due to the laser marking or textured surface.
[0044] In one aspect, the image 608 and/or the text 606 may be a
raised or embossed region of the plastic glazing 100 that surround
it. In one aspect, the image 608 and/or the text 606 can be
selected to be clear, colored, transparent, translucent, and/or
non-transparent. In one aspect, the image 608 and/or the text 606
is translucent such that a light disposed behind the plastic
glazing 100 may shine through the translucent portion to increase
the visibility, especially when it is dark. In one aspect, the
image 608 and/or the text 606 may be formed of a thermoplastic
polymer and may be formed as part of an injection molding process
for forming the plastic glazing 100.
[0045] FIG. 7 illustrates a third exemplary window glazing with a
lighting system in accordance with an aspect of the present
disclosure. The plastic glazing 100 may include a first clear or
colored portion 102 that functions as a portion of a tail lamp, an
axillary brake light, a courtesy light, a brake light or the like
of the vehicle 10. Light emitted from the light unit 214 through
the portions 102 of the plastic glazing 100 may be emitted as a
colored light in accordance with certain international standards
governing vehicle lighting such as, for example, ECE Regulation No.
48 and SAE Standard J578. While the portion 102 and the light unit
214 may produce a red light, one of ordinary skill in the art would
appreciate that the portion 102 and the light unit 214 may also be
designed to produce lights having other colors, such as, for
example, yellow or amber. These colors are also defined in ECE
Regulation No. 48 as well as in other international standards. Of
course, other colors may be emitted by the portion 102 in
conjunction with the light unit 214.
[0046] FIG. 8 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a first aspect
of FIG. 7. The light unit 214 may further provide light to the
light guide 402 as described previously. The light guide 402 being
attached and arranged as described previously as well. The light
guide 402 may terminate at an end 802 with a configuration to emit
a light 804 internally within the vehicle 10. The light 804
providing the light feature 50 as previously described. For
example, the light 804 providing the light feature 50 may include a
welcome or courtesy light, an interior reading light, an individual
customizable light, an ambient light, a cargo light, a panoramic
roof light, or the like. The light 804 may have a color consistent
with the light unit 214. Alternatively, the light 804 may be
emitted through a color portion arranged in the light guide 402,
the end 802, or the like in order to provide a desired color. The
light unit 214 may also emit a light 808 through the portion 102 as
noted above.
[0047] FIG. 9 illustrates a cross-sectional view of a second aspect
of FIG. 7. The light unit 214 may further provide light to the
light guide 402 as described previously. The light guide 402 being
attached and arranged as described previously as well. The light
guide 402 may terminate at an end 802 with a configuration to emit
a light 920 externally from the vehicle 10. The light 920 providing
the light feature 50 as previously described. For example, the
light 920 providing a side signature light, a welcome light, an
outside light, a side marker light, a park mode light, a roof
pillar light, a rear quarter window light, a security light, and/or
the like. It may provide illumination of an ornamental graphic,
logo or the like. This graphic or logo may be in-molded in the
portion 110, in the glazing 108, or both, or it may be a separate
entity. The light 920 may have a color consistent with the light
unit 214. Alternatively, the light 920 may be emitted through a
color portion arranged in the light guide 402, the end 802, or the
like in order to provide a desired color. The light unit 214 may
also emit a light 808 through the portion 102 as noted above.
[0048] With further reference to FIG. 9, the light 920 may be
emitted through a portion 930. In one aspect, the portion 930 may
be configured to always emit light from the end 802. In another
aspect, the portion 930 may include a blocking mechanism 910. The
blocking mechanism 910 may have a first position as shown in FIG. 9
that allows the light 920 emitted from the end 802. The blocking
mechanism 910 may have a second position (not shown) that prevents
the light 920 emitted from the end 802. In this regard, the
blocking mechanism 910 may be moved or extended to cover the
portion 930 and block the light 920 from being emitted through
portion 930.
[0049] The blocking mechanism 910 may slide manually from the first
position to the second position by operation of a passenger or
driver. The blocking mechanism 910 may slide automatically from the
first position to the second position by operation of dedicated
hardware. The blocking mechanism 910 may slide from the first
position to the second position by operation of a solenoid, servo,
or similar electromechanical component.
[0050] The light unit 214 may include one or more light components
such as, for example, an incandescent lamp, an electroluminescent
lamp, a gas discharge lamp, one or more a LEDs and the like. The
light unit 214 may further include driver circuits, power
connections, signal connections, and the like. The signal
connections of the light unit 214 may be implemented wirelessly and
receive control and command signals on a communication channel as
defined herein. The driver circuit may include dedicated hardware
to control the light unit 214 including to control the state of
each individual light of the light unit 214 that may include color,
flashing, and the like.
[0051] Additionally, the window including the plastic glazing 100
may further include various other components related to the
features of a vehicle such as the vehicle 10. For example, the
plastic glazing 100 may further include a spoiler portion and a
supporting member. The supporting member may be a part of a housing
unit (e.g., the housing unit 200) that is disposed behind the
plastic glazing 100 for supporting the light unit 214 and the like.
The spoiler portion may be formed of an additional thermoplastic
polymer and may be attached to a main body using an adhesive or
mechanical fastening system. The mechanical fastening system may be
integrated in the molded parts or separate (e.g., screw, bolt, and
the like). The spoiler portion may emit light associated with the
light feature 50.
[0052] Additionally, any aspect of the disclosure utilizing the
light unit 214 may be configured to provide illumination of an
ornamental graphic, logo or the like. This graphic or logo may be
in-molded in the portion 110, in the glazing 108, or both, or it
may be a separate entity.
[0053] According to certain aspects of the disclosure, the window
assembles disclosed herein may also include additional layers on
top of the thermoplastic polymer layers. For example, a layer for
increasing scratch resistance may be added to an exterior surface
of the plastic glazing. As another example, an additional layer for
adding more support to the thermoplastic polymer layers may also be
added to an interior surface of the plastic glazing. This
additional layer may be formed of a plastic, a metal, or other
material for increasing the structural strength of the window.
[0054] As described above the plastic glazing the 100 may be
manufactured using a molding process. In a particular aspect, a
multi-shot injection technique may be used to form the plastic
glazing 100. In a first shot, a clear translucent material may be
injected into a mold cavity having a first volume to form the clear
transparent portion 108. After the clear transparent portion 108 is
formed, the mold cavity may be adjusted to a second volume and so
on and so forth for receiving additional shots of material. In a
second shot (or a third shot), a black or other colored opaque
material for the portion 110 may be injected to the mold cavity
such that it binds with the clear translucent material. The two
materials may bind together through melt bonding. That is, heat
from the injected opaque material may melt a surface of the already
set clear translucent material such that a bond is formed between
the two materials when they cool. During any one of the multi-shot
injection molding processes the molded components 502, the cavity
212, the colored portion 102, or any other aspect set forth in the
disclosure may be formed thus reducing costs and complexity of the
manufacturing process. During any one of the multi-shot injection
molding processes the light unit 214 or any other aspect set forth
in the disclosure may be inserted and molded-in thus reducing costs
and complexity of the manufacturing process.
[0055] Implementations of the light feature 50 manufactured
consistent with the disclosure were found to provide greater than
10%-15% weight reduction in comparison to non-integrated
implementations.
[0056] It will be appreciated that the present disclosure may
include any one and up to all of the following examples.
Example 1
[0057] A plastic glazing of a window of a vehicle having a light
feature, the plastic glazing comprising: a first vehicle window
glazing component; a second vehicle window glazing component molded
onto the first vehicle window glazing component; a light unit
configured to produce light for the light feature; the light unit
being integrated with at least one of the following: the first
vehicle window glazing component and the second vehicle window
glazing component; and the light unit further configured to direct
the light for the light feature through or from at least one of the
following: the first vehicle window glazing component and the
second vehicle window glazing component, wherein the plastic
glazing is of one-piece molded plastic construction; and wherein at
least one of the first vehicle window glazing component and the
second vehicle window glazing component is translucent or
transparent.
Example 2
[0058] The plastic glazing of example 1, wherein the light unit is
supported on at least one of the following: the first vehicle
window glazing component and the second vehicle window glazing
component, wherein the window comprises at least one of the
following: a front window, a side window, a rear quarter window, a
rear window, a front quarter window, and a panoramic window.
Example 3
[0059] The plastic glazing of any one of Examples 1-2, wherein the
plastic glazing is attached to a housing unit that is configured to
support the light unit, wherein the housing unit comprises a
fiber-reinforced polymer.
Example 4
[0060] The plastic glazing of any one of Examples 1-3, further
comprising a light guide configured to receive the light from the
light unit, wherein the light guide is configured to one of the
following: emit the received light along a length thereof to
provide the light feature, deliver the light to an end thereof to
provide the light feature internally within the vehicle, and
deliver the light to an end thereof to provide the light feature
externally from the vehicle.
Example 5
[0061] The plastic glazing of any one of Examples 1-4, further
comprising molded components configured to hold the light guide,
wherein the molded components are molded in at least one of the
following: the first vehicle window glazing component and the
second vehicle window glazing component.
Example 6
[0062] The plastic glazing of any one of Examples 1-5, further
comprising a light blocking mechanism configured to block light
emitted from the light guide in a first position and allow light to
be emitted from the light guide in a second position.
Example 7
[0063] The plastic glazing of any one of Examples 1-6, wherein a
portion of one or more of the first vehicle window glazing
component and the second vehicle window glazing component forms a
lens and the light unit is configured to emit light through the
lens and also emit light through the light guide for the light
feature.
Example 8
[0064] The plastic glazing of any one of Examples 1-7, wherein at
least one of the first vehicle window glazing component and the
second vehicle window glazing component comprises a surface
configured to diffuse, scatter, or reflect light received from the
light unit, wherein the surface comprises at least one of the
following: a textured surface and a laser marked surface.
Example 9
[0065] The plastic glazing of any one of Examples 1-8, wherein the
light unit comprises light emitting diodes (LEDs) and the LEDs are
molded in at least one of the following: the first vehicle window
glazing component and the second vehicle window glazing
component.
Example 10
[0066] The plastic glazing of any one of Examples 1-9, wherein the
light feature comprises at least one of the following: a side
signature light, an outside light, a side marker light, a park mode
light, a roof pillar light, a rear quarter window light, a welcome
light, an interior reading light, an individual customizable light,
an ambient light, a cargo light, a panoramic roof light, a brake
light, a turn signal light, a running light, a reverse light, a fog
light, and a security light.
Example 11
[0067] A process of manufacturing a plastic glazing of a window of
a vehicle having a light feature, the process comprising: molding a
first vehicle window glazing component; molding a second vehicle
window glazing component molded onto the first vehicle window
glazing component; integrating a light unit configured to produce
light for the light feature with at least one of the following: the
first vehicle window glazing component and the second vehicle
window glazing component; and arranging the light unit to direct
the light for the light feature through or from at least one of the
following: the first vehicle window glazing component and the
second vehicle window glazing component, and wherein at least one
of the first vehicle window glazing component and the second
vehicle window glazing component is translucent or transparent.
Example 12
[0068] The process of Example 11, wherein the light unit is
supported on at least one of the following: the first vehicle
window glazing component and the second vehicle window glazing
component, wherein the window comprises at least one of the
following: a front window, a side window, a rear quarter window, a
rear window, a front quarter window, and a panoramic window.
Example 13
[0069] The process of any one of Examples 11-12, wherein the
plastic glazing is attached to a housing unit that is configured to
support the light unit, wherein the housing unit comprises a
fiber-reinforced polymer.
Example 14
[0070] The process of any one of Examples 11-13, further comprising
providing a light guide configured to receive light from the light
unit, wherein the light guide is configured to one of the
following: emit the received light along a length thereof to
provide the light feature, deliver the light to an end thereof to
provide the light feature internally within the vehicle, and
deliver the light to an end thereof to provide the light feature
externally from the vehicle.
Example 15
[0071] The process of any one of Examples 11-14, further comprising
molding components configured to hold the light guide, wherein the
components are molded in at least one of the following: the first
vehicle window glazing component and the second vehicle window
glazing component.
Example 16
[0072] The process of any one of Examples 11-15, further comprising
arranging a light blocking mechanism configured to block light
emitted from the light guide in a first position and allow light to
be emitted from the light guide in a second position.
Example 17
[0073] The process of any one of Examples 11-16, wherein a portion
of one or more of the first vehicle window glazing component and
the second vehicle window glazing component forms a lens and the
light unit is configured to emit light through the lens and also
emit light through the light guide for the light feature.
Example 18
[0074] The process of any one of Examples 11-17, wherein at least
one of the first vehicle window glazing component and the second
vehicle window glazing component comprises a surface configured to
diffuse, scatter, or reflect light received from the light unit,
wherein the surface comprises at least one of the following: a
textured surface and a laser marked surface.
Example 19
[0075] The process of any one of Examples 11-18, wherein the light
unit comprises light emitting diodes (LEDs) and the process further
includes molding the LEDs into at least one of the following: the
first vehicle window glazing component and the second vehicle
window glazing component.
Example 20
[0076] The process of any one of Examples 11-19, wherein the light
feature comprises at least one of the following: a side signature
light, an outside light, a side marker light, a park mode light, a
roof pillar light, a rear quarter window light, a welcome light, an
interior reading light, an individual customizable light, an
ambient light, a cargo light, a panoramic roof light, a brake
light, a turn signal light, a running light, a reverse light, a fog
light, and a security light.
[0077] In general, systems and methods disclosed herein may
alternately comprise, consist of, or consist essentially of, any
appropriate components herein disclosed. The disclosure may
additionally, or alternatively, be designed so as to be devoid, or
substantially free, of any components used in the prior art
compositions or that are otherwise not necessary to the achievement
of the function and/or objectives of the present disclosure.
[0078] Recitation of ranges of values herein are merely intended to
serve as a shorthand method of referring individually to each
separate value falling within the range, unless otherwise indicated
herein, and each separate value is incorporated into the
specification as if it were individually recited herein. All
methods described herein can be performed in any suitable order
unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted
by context.
[0079] It is to be understood that any thermoplastic material can
be processed using the methods disclosed herein. For example, the
polymer can include polyphenylene ether-based resin,
polyacetal-based resin, polyamide-based resin, polystyrene-based
resin, polymethyl methacrylate based resin, polyacrylonitrile-based
resin, polyester-based resin, polycarbonate, polyphenylene sulfide,
polyetherimide, polyethersulfone, polysulfone, polyether (ether)
ketone, polyolefin-based resin, polyethylene terephthalate based
resin (PET), poly p phenylene based resin, polyvinyl chloride (PVC)
based resin, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) based resin and
combinations including at least one of the foregoing.
[0080] Aspects of the disclosure may include communication channels
associated with the dedicated hardware to control the light unit
214 that may be any type of wired or wireless electronic
communications network, such as, e.g., a wired/wireless local area
network (LAN), Near field communication (NFC), a cellular telephone
network, a Personal Communications Service (PCS), using known
protocols such as the Global System for Mobile Communications
(GSM), CDMA (Code-Division Multiple Access), GSM/EDGE and UMTS/HSPA
network technologies, Long Term Evolution (LTE), 5G (5th generation
mobile networks or 5th generation wireless systems), WiMAX, HSPA+,
W-CDMA (Wideband Code-Division Multiple Access), CDMA2000 (also
known as C2K or IMT Multi-Carrier (IMT-MC)), Wireless Fidelity
(Wi-Fi), Bluetooth, and/or the like, and/or a combination of two or
more thereof.
[0081] Further in accordance with various aspects of the
disclosure, the methods described herein are intended for operation
with dedicated hardware implementations including, but not limited
to, microprocessors, PCs, PDAs, semiconductors, application
specific integrated circuits (ASIC), programmable logic arrays, and
other hardware devices constructed to implement the methods
described herein.
[0082] Aspects of the present disclosure described in connection
with illustrated aspects have been presented by way of
illustration, and the present disclosure is therefore not intended
to be limited to the disclosed aspects. Furthermore, the structure
and features of each aspect described herein can be applied to the
other aspects described herein. Accordingly, those skilled in the
art will realize that the present disclosure is intended to
encompass all modifications and alternative arrangements included
within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure, as set forth
by the appended claims.
* * * * *