Window construction

The present invention refers to a window construction, particularly to be used in a train, vehicle, car, helicopter, aircraft or building, which comprises a laminated window glazing having electrically switchable layer means arranged in a laminate, and controlling means being coupled to the switchable layer means for controlling the sunlight transparency of the switchable layer means.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application is a National Phase of International Application Number PCT/EP2013/000939, filed Mar. 27, 2013, and claims priority from European Application 13425023.2, filed Feb. 6, 2013.

The present invention relates to a window construction, particularly used in a vehicle like a train, car or ship, but also in a building.

Usually, for instance, in the passenger compartments of trains, the window of the compartment is provided with a curtain or roller blind or something similar to be able to darken the compartment to protect the passengers in the compartment against too much sunlight. These known blinds are operated directly by hand or they are driven by means of an electromotor, and, therefore, the blinds are subjected to frequent maintenance and repair.

It is, therefore, an object of the present invention to provide a window construction avoiding frequent maintenance and repair of the blinds.

This object is solved by the window construction of claim1. Accordingly, the window construction or window of the invention, which can be used in a vehicle like a train, car or ship, but also in a building, comprises a laminated window glazing having electrically switchable layer means, and controlling means being coupled to the switchable layer means for controlling the transparency of visible light or sun light of the switchable layer means and, therefore, also of the whole window. The window construction of the invention is very reliable since it avoids the mechanical or electromechanical drives and blinds of the state of the art.

Generally, the window construction of the invention allows darkening the whole window or only a part of the window. Further, the darkening of the window can be controlled in selected fields or segments of the window of the invention.

The window construction also can be arranged according to be in a normally darkened state which means that the window is normally in a darkened state which can be changed by controlling into a transparent state of the whole or of a part of the window within selected and controlled segments or fields of the window. In alternative, the window construction can be arranged to be in a normally transparent state which means that the window is normally in a transparent state which can be changed by the controlling means into a darkened state of the whole or of a part of the window within selected and controlled segments or fields of the window.

The window construction can also be arranged to control the darkening or the transparency of the window gradually or stepwise using a variable dimming or variation control to be effective within the whole window or in a part of the window within selected segments or fields.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the controlling means or electronics are arranged on or within the window glazing to obtain an integration of the window glazing and the control. Accordingly, the window of the invention has a compact structure saving space in the passenger compartment. Further, since the window of the invention is an integrated unit, this facilitates replacing the original windows with new windows corresponding to the invention in order to upgrade the windows of the vehicle or train.

The controlling means may comprise a display for indicating the presently adjusted or switched status of transparency or darkening of the switchable layer means or switchable film.

According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the controlling means comprises a switch or switching system to be operated by a person or passenger for controlling the transparency or darkening of the window glazing or switchable layer means.

A touch sensitive system like, for instance, a touch screen or a touch panel or touch pad can be used for realizing the switching function and/or the display function of the control box to offer a convenient method for blinding or darkening down and a number of possible adjustments of the transparency of the glazing from natural bright light to substantially complete non-transparent glazing. Preferably, the touch sensitive system or touch screen or touch sensitive panel is arranged inside the vehicle or passenger compartment to be easily accessible for the passenger, particularly for the hands or fingers of the person who wants to manipulate or control the transparency of the window.

The display function of the transparency status or darkening status of the window can be installed by a LCD device, LEDs, a series of lights, or by the touch screen as mentioned.

Preferably, the touch screen is arranged on an inner pane of the window glazing directed to inside of a vehicle or train or building again to be easily accessible for operation by a passenger. Due to the same reasons, the touch screen can provide a touch sensitive area arranged on the inner pane or inserted therein.

The controlling means may comprise a controlling unit or controlling interface coupled to the touch sensitive system or touch screen, the switchable layer means or electrochromic film of the window glazing, and to an electrical power or voltage supply to be able to carry out the electrical control of the window of the invention.

The electrical power supply provides the electrical energy or voltages for supporting the controlling means of the window construction of the invention. Accordingly, the power supply is constructed to provide DC and/or AC voltage to drive the touch sensitive system, a controlling unit, and the switchable layer means of the window of the invention. Generally, the power supply can provide the direct voltage of 12 V of a car battery, 28 V of VAN battery, 24 V of a train compartment power supply, 28 V of a helicopter or an aircraft power supply or an alternating voltage of 110 or 220 V of a power network, or a voltage value there between.

Preferably, the controlling unit is arranged on or within the window glazing to obtain a compact integrated structure of the inventive window.

A first wiring for electrical coupling the touch sensitive system or touch screen to the controlling unit can be provided wherein the first wiring is arranged on or within the window glazing of the window construction of the invention in order to further increase the integration of the window. The window construction can comprise a second wiring for electrical coupling the controlling unit to the switchable layer means wherein the second wiring can be arranged again on or within the window glazing again to increase the degree of integration of the window of the invention.

Preferably, the controlling unit comprises only one connector to be visible from outside for coupling to a voltage supply or supply line.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the window glazing comprises a wiring layer having the first and second wirings or electrical lines and conductors formed therein to obtain a better integration and a very reliable connection of the components. The touch sensitive system or touch screen can have a wiring and electrode panel that is formed in this wiring layer to allow mass production of the windows.

In a preferred construction, the laminated window comprises panes made of glass or plastic, for instance, polycarbonate, and adhesive interlayers made of an adhesive foil, particularly a polyvinylbutyral or polyurethane foil, and the electrical switching layer means comprises at least a first electrode layer, a second electrode layer, and an electrochromic layer arranged between the first and second electrode layers wherein the electrode layers are coupled to a controlling unit of the controlling means to allow a lamination process with high mechanical resistance.

The first electrode or controlling electrode can be portioned or divided into a plurality of separate electrode fields or segments which are separately and independently controllable electrically, wherein the second electrode layer is the common electrode coupled to electrical mass potential. This structure allows darkening or adjusting of transparency of selected fields and areas of the window as wished by a passenger. Preferably, the fields or segments of the first electrode layer can be arranged in parallel stripes.

The electrode fields and segments and corresponding darkening fields or segments of the window can be vertically or horizontally arranged to be able to realize different applications. The width of the stripes or bands of the darkening or transparency segments can be equal or different.

The touch sensitive system or panel or touch screen can comprise a printed structure or circuit to allow mass production. The printed structure can be provided by using, for instance, a silver paste or graphite paste in a printing method.

The window construction of the invention can have a window glazing with an air gap or insulating space like in an insulating window which is defined by two parallel panes made of glass or plastic, and a spacer or insulating profile circumferentially extending in the form of a frame between the panes in order to realize the window construction as a laminated insulating window which can be used in a plurality of applications in which insulating against deep temperatures is important, for instance, in trains.

The switchable layer means or film and the touch sensitive panel or touch screen may be arranged within the same plane of layers to save space.

A controlling unit of the controlling means can be installed in a free space between the panes of the window glazing to protect the unit against adverse influences of weather.

Further advantageous embodiments of the invention are mentioned in the dependent claims. Further advantages, advantageous embodiments, and features of the invention are mentioned in the following description of preferred and exemplified embodiments of the invention in connection with the drawings that show:

FIGS. 1, 2 and 3show a window construction1according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. The window construction1has the usual shape of a rectangular window and it can be used, preferably, in a train, but also in another vehicle like a car, ship, helicopter or aircraft, or even in a building. It is formed in an integrated laminate with a plurality of layers and panes.

FIG. 2shows a schematic cross section in part of the window construction1in an explosive manner. The window construction comprises a laminated and integrated window glazing9that comprises an inner pane2made of glass or plastic like, for instance, polycarbonate (=PC), the inner pane2is directed to inside of a train or passenger compartment, an interlayer3being adhesive and made, for instance, of polyvinylbutyral (=PVB) or a PVB foil, a polyurethane (=PU) foil or an ethylene vinyl acetate (=EVA) foil, a touch screen electrode layer10of a touch screen12or touch sensitive system or panel, optionally, a wiring layer11with electrical lines, conductors, and/or contacts, wherein the touch screen electrode layer10and the wiring layer11can be integrated in the same layer, electrically switchable layer means6or a switchable film having an inner electrode layer6.1, an electrochromic layer6.2, and an outer electrode layer6.3, a further adhesive interlayer7made of PVB, PU or EVA, and an outer pane8made of glass or plastic like PC or PMMA (=polymethylmethacrylate) or hard polyurethane which is directed to outside of the train or vehicle in which the window construction1is used.

The electrochromic layer6.2comprises an acrylic or epoxy type resin in which droplets containing liquid crystals or bipolar particles suitable to absorb or scatter the light are dispersed. If a voltage is supplied to the electrode layers6.1and6.3, the droplets or particles can be aligned to make the electrochromic layer6.2transparent or to change its transparency and light from the outside can pass through the window. If the electrical voltage is removed the droplets or particles return again to the original or normal random state causing the light to be absorbed or reflected by the droplets or particles within the electrochromic layer6.1resulting in a darkening. Accordingly, the electrochromic layer6.1is in a normally darkened state without any voltage supplied. The higher the voltage supplied at the electrode layers6.1and6.3the higher is the transparency of the electrochromic layer6.2since more and more particles or droplets are aligned for passing light if the voltage increases. Accordingly, by variation of the voltage level the transparency level can be changed. DE 10 2008 030 441 B3, for instance, describes an electrically switchable layer means6in more detail which can be used in the present invention. The electrode layers6.1and6.3can be made of ITO (indium tin oxide).

Further, the window construction1comprises controlling means14that are coupled to the switchable layer means6of the window glazing9for controlling the sunlight transparency of the switchable layer means6.

The controlling means14comprises the touch screen12as touch sensitive system for realizing a switch function by touching the surface of the touch screen12for controlling and adjusting the transparency of the switchable layer means6and, therefore, also of the whole window, and a display function for indicating the presently adjusted or switched status of transparency of the switchable layer means6. The touch screen12can be of the resistive or capacitive type.

The touch screen12displays a scale12.1for indicating the degree of transparency or darkening or blinding the window against sunlight from outside radiating the outer pane8of the window construction1. The touch screen12is inserted in an opening2.1or recess provided in the inner pane2and it comprises the touch screen electrode layer10or pad being sensitive to mechanical touching of the touch screen12or its touch sensitive area12.2that is accessible to a person or passenger within a train or vehicle.

Further, the controlling means14comprises a controlling unit15or interface which can be realized as control box that is coupled to the touch screen12and to the touch screen electrode layer10, to the switchable layer means6of the window glazing9, and to a voltage supply17for supplying the required voltage or electrical energy. More detailed, the controlling means14provides a first wiring13for coupling the touch screen electrode layer10or panel to the controlling unit15, and a second electrical wiring16for coupling the controlling unit15to the first controlling electrode layer6.1of the switchable layer means6.

The controlling electrode layer6.1of the electrically switchable layer means6comprises six separated and individually and independently controllable electrode fields30,31,32,33,34, and35that correspond to six individually and independently controllable darkening fields20,21,22,23,24, and25or segments of the electrochromic layer6.2of the electrically switchable layer means6. These darkening fields20to25are shown inFIG. 1and they are nearly equal in area, stripe like, horizontal and parallel as shown by the auxiliary lines inFIG. 1.

FIG. 4shows an electronic circuit diagram of the controlling unit15that comprises a microprocessor38, a microcontroller, or even a microcomputer supported and controlled by software and six switching interface circuits having the same structure and comprising each a switch and/or voltage dimmer, for instance, a circuit with transistor37and resistor36for individually and selectively controlling the corresponding electrode fields30to35of the controlling electrode layer6.1of the switchable layer means6by the microprocessor38. In alternative, the transistors37for controlling the switchable segments can be realized as relays or solid-state relays.

For instance, if a passenger wishes to make the darkening field20of the window glazing9transparent or more transparent, then he touches the touch screen12on the inner pane2accordingly. The microprocessor38of the controlling unit15in the controlling means14detects this action from the touch screen12via the touch screen electrode panel10and the first wiring13and controls the corresponding transistor37to be switched on. Then electrical current flows through this transistor37and the respective resistor36to mass and an increased voltage is supplied to the electrode field30corresponding to the darkening field20via the second wiring16. If the high or increased voltage is supplied to the respective electrode field30then the electrochromic layer6.2changes is transparency within the corresponding darkening field20from approximately 0% to a higher transparency value, for instance, approximately 60% for sunlight which means that light then can pass through the electrochromic layer6.2within the darkening field20and a corresponding high transparency of the window construction1is effected within the darkening field20.

For instance, if the passenger wishes a complete transparency, he can touch the touch screen12correspondingly to control all electro fields30to35and the corresponding darkening fields20to25of the window glazing9at the same time to change from the normally darkening state to a transparent or selected state or fully transparent state of the window construction1. If the passenger wants to select only, for instance, the darkening fields21and24to make only these areas of the window construction1being transparent, he only has to operate the touch screen12correspondingly.

FIGS. 5, 6, and 7show a window construction40according to a further embodiment of the present invention. The window construction40has the usual shape of a rectangular window and it can be used, preferably, in a train, but also in another vehicle like a car or even a building. It is formed in an integrated laminate with a plurality of layers. The window construction or pane40can be a single laminate or be a part of an insulating glass unit.

FIG. 6shows a schematic view in part of a laminated and integrated window glazing40.1of the window construction40in cross section in an explosive manner along the auxiliary line AA inFIG. 5.

The window glazing40.1comprises an inner transparent pane42made of glass or plastic like, for instance, polycarbonate (=PC), EVA or hard polyurethane, the inner pane42is directed to an inside200of a train or passenger compartment, a first transparent interlayer43being adhesive and made, for instance, of polyvinylbutyral (=PVB) or a PVB, PU or EVA foil, a touch sensitive panel48or touch screen of capacitive type as a touch sensitive system, a second adhesive transparent PVB, PU or EVA interlayer44, wherein the touch sensitive panel48is arranged between the interlayers43and44, electrically switchable layer means46comprising an electrically switchable film between electrode layers designed for a number of independent darkening fields41, a third adhesive transparent PVB, PU or EVA interlayer45, wherein the electrically switchable layer means46is arranged between the interlayers44and45, and an outer pane47made of glass or plastic like PC, PMMA or hard polyurethane which adjoins the interlayer45and which is directed to an outside300of the train or vehicle in which the window construction40is used.

Further, the window construction40comprises controlling means equal or similar to the controlling means14of the embodiment shown inFIG. 3that are coupled to the switchable layer means46for controlling the sunlight transparency of the switchable layer means46according to darkening fields41of the window construction40which are arranged horizontally as shown by auxiliary lines inFIG. 5.

FIG. 7shows a schematic view in part of a laminated and integrated alternative window glazing40.2of the window construction40in cross section in an explosive manner along the auxiliary line AA inFIG. 5.

The laminated window glazing40.2has again a plurality of layers arranged parallel and it comprises an inner transparent pane52made of glass or plastic like, for instance, polycarbonate (=PC), PMMA or hard polyurethane, the inner pane52is directed to an inside200of a train or passenger compartment, a first transparent interlayer53being adhesive and made, for instance, of polyvinylbutyral (=PVB) or a PVB, PU or EVA foil, a touch sensitive panel58or touch screen of capacitive type, a second adhesive transparent PVB, PU or EVA interlayer54, a third adhesive transparent PVB interlayer55, electrically switchable layer means56comprising a switchable film with corresponding electrode layers designed for the plurality of independent darkening fields41arranged horizontally in parallel stripes, and an outer pane57made of glass or plastic like PC or hard polyurethane which adjoins the third interlayer55and which is directed to an outside300of the train or vehicle in which the window construction40is used.

The second interlayer54, the touch sensitive panel58, and the electrically switchable layer means56are arranged in the same plane between interlayers53and55. The touch sensitive panel58is surrounded by the electrically switchable layer means56on three sides but adjoins the third interlayer54on its bottom side.

Further, the window construction40comprises controlling means equal or similar to the controlling means14of the embodiment shown inFIG. 3which are electrically coupled to the switchable layer means56for controlling the sunlight transparency of the switchable layer means46according to the darkening fields41of the window construction40which are arranged horizontally as shown inFIG. 5with auxiliary lines.

FIGS. 8, 9, and 10show a window construction60according to a further embodiment of the present invention to be used in car. The window construction60comprises a complete window set on the right side of a car and the set comprises a moveable front door window61, a moveable rear door window62, and a fixed quarterlight window63as shown in extracted manner inFIG. 8. A car body line64on the right side of the car body is illustrated by the auxiliary line inFIG. 8. Each of the windows61,62, and63is formed in an integrated laminate with a plurality of layers and comprises a plurality of vertical darkening fields65or segments that are arranged in parallel stripes with substantially the same width.

The front door window61is divided in a front part66, a back part67, which both are visible, and a lower part68that is arranged within the front door of the car substantially under the car body line64and, therefore, it is not visible. The front door window61has a plurality of darkening fields65only in the back part67of the front door window61, whereas the front part66and the lower part68of the front door window61are free of darkening fields. The darkening fields65of the front door window61are arranged vertically and in parallel to each other as shown inFIG. 8.

The front door window61also comprises a touch screen69or a touch sensitive panel for controlling the function of the darkening fields65of the front door window61by a passenger in the car, and corresponding electrical controlling means70that are coupled to the touch screen69, a power supply for supplying electrical energy, and to an electrically switchable layer means86or switchable film within the front door window61. The controlling means70or control box is installed within the lower part70of the front door window61.

The back door window62is divided in an upper part74that is substantially above the car body line64and that is visible and a lower part68that is arranged within the back door of the car substantially under the car body line64and, therefore, it is not visible. The back door window62has a plurality of darkening fields65only in its upper part74, whereas its lower part75is free of darkening fields. The darkening fields65of the back door window62are again arranged vertically and in parallel to each other as shown inFIG. 8.

The back door window62also comprises a touch screen71or touch sensitive panel for controlling the transparency or darkening function of its darkening fields65by a passenger in the car, and corresponding electrical controlling means72that are coupled to the touch screen71, the power supply for supplying electrical energy, and to an electrically switchable layer means86or96or switchable film within the back door window62and also within the quarterlight window63. The controlling means72or control box is installed within or on the lower part73of the back door window62.

The quarterlight window63has also a plurality of darkening fields65that are again arranged vertically and in parallel to each, have the same width, and extend vertically along the whole window as shown inFIG. 8by the auxiliary lines. The darkening fields65of the quarterlight window63are controlled by means of the touch screen71of the back door window62.

FIG. 9shows a schematic view in part of a laminated and integrated window glazing60.1of the window construction60in cross section in an explosive manner through the touch screen69of the front door window61or through the touch screen71of the back door window62.

The window glazing60.1comprises an inner transparent pane82made of glass or plastic like, for instance, polycarbonate (=PC), PMMA or hard polyurethane, the inner pane82is directed to an inside200of a car or passenger compartment, a first transparent interlayer83being adhesive and made, for instance, of polyvinyl butyral (=PVB) or a PVB, PU or EVA foil, a touch screen69or71or touch sensitive panel of capacitive type, a second adhesive transparent PVB, PU or EVA interlayer84, wherein the touch sensitive panel69or71is arranged within a a corresponding opening81of the interlayer83which means that the touch screen69or71is surrounded by the interlayer83in the same plane, electrically switchable layer means86comprising an electrically switchable film between electrode layers designed for the plurality of independent controllable darkening fields65, a third adhesive transparent PVB, PU or EVA interlayer85, wherein the electrically switchable layer means86is arranged between the interlayers84and85, and an outer pane87made of glass or plastic like PC, PMMA or hard polyurethane which adjoins the interlayer85and which is directed to an outside300of the car in which the window construction60is used.

FIG. 10shows a schematic view in part of an alternative laminated and integrated window glazing60.2of the window construction60in cross section in an explosive manner through the touch screen69of the back door window61or through the touch screen71of the back door window62.

The window glazing60.2comprises an inner transparent pane92made of glass or plastic like, for instance, polycarbonate (=PC), PMMA or hard polyurethane, the inner pane92is directed to an inside200of a car or passenger compartment, a first transparent interlayer93being adhesive and made, for instance, of polyvinyl butyral (=PVB), PU or EVA or a PVB foil, a touch screen69or71or touch sensitive panel of capacitive type, wherein the touch screen69or71is arranged within a a corresponding opening91of the interlayer93which means again that the touch screen69or71is surrounded by the interlayer93in the same plane, electrically switchable layer means96comprising an electrically switchable film between electrode layers designed for the plurality of independent controllable darkening fields65, a second adhesive transparent PVB, PU or EVA interlayer95, wherein the electrically switchable layer means96is arranged between the interlayers93and95, and an outer pane97made of glass or plastic like PC, PMMA or hard polyurethane which adjoins the interlayer95and which is directed to an outside300of the car in which the window construction60is used.

FIGS. 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, and 17show a window construction100according to a further embodiment of the present invention. The window construction100has the usual shape of a rectangular window and it is an insulating window that can be used, preferably, in a train, but also in another vehicle like a car, ship, helicopter or aircraft, or even in a building. It is formed in an integrated laminate with a plurality of layers and panes.

FIG. 12shows a schematic view in part of a laminated and integrated window glazing100.1of the insulating window construction100in cross section in an explosive manner along the auxiliary line AA inFIG. 11.

The window glazing100.1comprises an inner transparent pane112made of glass or plastic like, for instance, polycarbonate (=PC), PMMA or hard polyurethane, the inner pane112is directed to an inside200of a train or passenger compartment, a first transparent interlayer113or film being adhesive and made, for instance, of polyvinyl butyral (=PVB), PU or EVA or a PVB foil, a capacitive touch sensitive panel120or touch screen, a second adhesive transparent PVB, PU or EVA interlayer115, electrically switchable layer means116comprising an electrically switchable film between electrode layers designed for a plurality of independent darkening fields101, a transparent protection layer114, wherein the electrically switchable layer means116is arranged between the interlayers113and115, and an outer pane117made of glass or plastic like PC or hard polyurethane which is directed to an outside300of the train or vehicle in which the window construction100is used.

Further, the window construction100comprises controlling means111or a corresponding control box equal or similar in function and construction like the controlling means14of the embodiment shown inFIG. 3which are electrically coupled to the switchable layer means116for controlling its sunlight transparency according to the darkening fields101or segments of the window construction100which are arranged horizontally as shown inFIG. 11by the auxiliary lines.

As being an insulating window, the window glazing100.1has a circumferential insulating spacer profile118in the shape of an inner frame extending between the inner pane112and the outer pane117and surrounding an insulating gap119or insulating air space. The interlayers113and115, the electrically switchable layer means116and the protection layer114are arranged within the insulating gap119, whereas the controlling means111and the touch sensitive panel120or touch screen are arranged outside of the insulating gap119and the spacer profile118between the inner and outer panes112and117at a lower edge of the window glazing100.1below the insulating spacer profile118.

FIG. 13shows a schematic view in part of a laminated and integrated window glazing100.2of the insulating window construction100in cross section in an explosive manner along the auxiliary line AA inFIG. 11.

The window glazing100.2comprises an inner transparent pane122made of glass or plastic like, for instance, polycarbonate (=PC), PMMA or hard polyurethane, the inner pane122is directed to an inside200of a train or passenger compartment, a first transparent interlayer123or film being adhesive and made, for instance, of polyvinyl butyral (=PVB), PU or EVA or a PVB foil, a capacitive touch sensitive panel130or touch screen, a second adhesive transparent PVB interlayer125, electrically switchable layer means126comprising an electrically switchable film between electrode layers designed for a plurality of independent darkening fields101, a middle transparent pane124made of glass or plastic like polycarbonate (=PC), PMMA or hard polyurethane, the middle pane124adjoining the adhesive interlayer125, wherein the electrically switchable layer means126is arranged between the interlayers123and125, and an outer transparent pane127made of glass or plastic like PC, PMMA or hard polyurethane which is directed to an outside300of the train or vehicle in which the window construction100is used.

Further, the window construction100comprises controlling means121or a corresponding control box equal or similar in function and construction like the controlling means14of the embodiment shown inFIG. 3which are electrically coupled to the switchable layer means126for controlling its sunlight transparency according to the darkening fields101or segments of the window construction100which are arranged horizontally as shown inFIG. 11, to the touch sensitive panel130or touch screen, and to a power supply157.

As being an insulating window, the window glazing100.2has a circumferential insulating spacer profile128in the shape of an inner frame extending between the inner pane122and the outer pane127. The middle pane124that is arranged in parallel to the outer pane127and that is vertically shorter than the outer pane127, and the insulating spacer profile128surround and define an air gap129or insulating space. The inner pane122is flush to the spacer profile128or frame. The interlayers123and125, and the electrically switchable layer means126arranged there between are flush to the middle pane124and they are arranged within the inner pane and the middle pane in a laminate. The inner and outer panes122and127are flush at an upper edge of the window glazing100.2.

The controlling means121and the touch sensitive panel130or touch screen are arranged outside of the air gap129and of the spacer profile128at a lower edge of the window glazing100.2below the insulating spacer profile128, and they are arranged and fixed on an inside of the outer pane127.

FIG. 14shows a schematic view in part of a laminated and integrated window glazing100.3of the insulating window construction100in cross section in an explosive manner along the auxiliary line AA inFIG. 11.

The window glazing100.3comprises an inner transparent pane132made of glass or plastic like, for instance, polycarbonate (=PC) or hard polyurethane, the inner pane132is directed to an inside200of a train or passenger compartment, a first transparent interlayer133or film being adhesive and made, for instance, of polyvinyl butyral (=PVB), PU or EVA or a PVB foil, a capacitive touch sensitive panel140or touch screen, a second adhesive transparent PVB, PU or EVA interlayer135, electrically switchable layer means136comprising an electrically switchable film between electrode layers designed for a plurality of independent darkening fields101, a middle transparent pane134made of glass or plastic like polycarbonate (=PC), PMMA or hard polyurethane, the middle pane134adjoining the adhesive interlayer135, wherein the electrically switchable layer means136, the touch sensitive panel140or touch screen, and a further adhesive PVB, PU or EVA interlayer133.1are arranged within the same plane and between the interlayers133and135, wherein the touch sensitive panel140is arranged in an opening of the further interlayer133.1and surrounded by it, and an outer transparent pane137and a middle transparent pane134made of glass or plastic like PC, PMMA or hard polyurethane. The outer pane137is directed to an outside300of the train or vehicle in which the window construction100is used. The panes132,134, and137are flush, have the same shape, and are parallel to each other.

Further, the window construction100comprises controlling means131or a corresponding control box equal or similar in function and construction like the controlling means14of the embodiment shown inFIG. 3which are electrically coupled to the switchable layer means136for controlling its sunlight transparency according to the darkening fields101or segments of the window construction100which are arranged horizontally as shown inFIG. 11, to the touch sensitive panel140or touch screen, and to a power supply.

As being an insulating window, the window glazing100.3has a circumferential insulating spacer profile138in the shape of an inner frame extending between the middle pane134and the outer pane137. The middle pane134, the outer pane137, and the insulating spacer profile138surround and define an air gap139or insulating space there between. The switchable layer means136or foil is flush to the insulating spacer means138.

The controlling means131and the touch sensitive panel140or touch screen are arranged outside of the insulating air gap139and outside of the spacer profile138at a lower edge of the window glazing100.3below the insulating spacer profile138, and between the middle and outer panes134,137in a free space131.1, and they are arranged on the outer pane137and/or the middle pane134. The touch sensitive panel140is arranged on the controlling means131in the form of a control box.

FIG. 15shows a schematic view in part of an alternative laminated and integrated window glazing100.4of the insulating window construction100in cross section in an explosive manner along the auxiliary line AA inFIG. 11.

The window glazing100.4comprises an inner transparent pane142made of glass or plastic like, for instance, polycarbonate (=PC), PMMA or hard polyurethane, the inner pane142is directed to an inside200of a train or passenger compartment, a first transparent interlayer143or film being adhesive and made, for instance, of polyvinyl butyral (=PVB), PU or PMMA or a PVB foil, a capacitive touch sensitive panel150or touch screen, a second adhesive transparent PVB, PU or EVA interlayer145, electrically switchable layer means146comprising an electrically switchable film between electrode layers designed for a plurality of independent darkening fields101, a middle transparent pane144made of glass or plastic like polycarbonate (=PC) or hard polyurethane, the middle pane144adjoining the adhesive interlayer145, wherein the electrically switchable layer means146is arranged between the interlayers143and145, and an outer transparent pane147that is directed to an outside300of the train or vehicle in which the window construction100is used. The panes142,144, and147are flush, have the same shape, and are parallel to each other.

Further, the window construction100comprises controlling means141or a corresponding control box equal or similar in function and construction like the controlling means14of the embodiment shown inFIG. 3which are electrically coupled to the switchable layer means146for controlling its sunlight transparency according to the darkening fields101or segments of the window construction100which are arranged horizontally as shown inFIG. 11, to the touch sensitive panel150or touch screen, and to a power supply.

As being an insulating window, the window glazing100.4has a circumferential insulating spacer profile148in the shape of an inner frame extending between the middle pane144and the outer pane147. The middle pane144, the outer pane147, and the insulating spacer profile148surround and define an air gap149or insulating space there between. The switchable layer means146or foil is flush to the insulating spacer means148.

The controlling means141and the touch sensitive panel150or touch screen are arranged outside of the air gap149and outside of the spacer profile148at a lower edge of the window glazing100.4below the insulating spacer profile148, and between the middle and outer panes144,147. The touch panel150or touch screen is arranged between the middle pane144and the controlling means141or control box.

FIG. 16shows a perspective and exploded view of a part of a further window construction1.1according to an alternative embodiment of the present invention. The window construction1.1has the usual shape of a rectangular window and it can be used, preferably, in a train, but also in another vehicle like a car or even a building. It is formed in an integrated laminate with a plurality of layers.

The window construction1.1comprises a laminated and integrated window glazing9.1that comprises an inner pane152made of glass or plastic like, for instance, polycarbonate (=PC), PMMA or hard polyurethane, the inner layer is directed to an inside of a train or passenger compartment, an interlayer154being adhesive and made, for instance, of polyvinylbutyral (=PVB), PU or PMMA or a PVB foil, a touch sensitive structure151as touch sensitive system or touch panel, electrically switchable layer means158or a switchable film having a plurality of electrical contacts159, each coupled to one of the darkening fields101.

Further, the window construction1.1comprises controlling means155or a control box that are coupled to the switchable layer means158of the window glazing9.1for controlling the sunlight transparency of the switchable layer means158.

The controlling means155comprises the touch sensitive structure151for realizing a switch function by touching the surface of the touch sensitive structure151for controlling and adjusting the transparency of the switchable layer means158according to the independently switchable darkening fields101and, therefore, also of the whole window. The touch sensitive structure151is a printed circuit that is disposed by a printing method on a surface of the inner pane152, on the surface of the adhesive interlayer154, or, generally, on a surface of a layer made of glass, plastic like PVB, PC, hard polyurethane, or acrylic glass. The printed structure can comprise one or more circles, stripes, spirals, coils, capacities, or resistances or contact pads. The printed structures can be made of metallic paste printed on the surface. The touch sensitive structure151can be used as a touch sensitive panel or in a touch screen in each of the embodiments according toFIGS. 1, 6, 7, 9, 10, 12, 13, 14, 15, and 17.

Further, the controlling means14.1comprises a controlling unit155or interface that is coupled to the touch sensitive structure151, to the switchable layer means158of the window glazing9.1, and to a voltage supply157for supplying the required voltage or electrical energy. More detailed, the controlling means14.1provides a first wiring153for coupling the touch sensitive structure151or panel to the controlling unit155, and a second electrical wiring156for coupling the controlling unit155or controlling box to the contacts159of the switchable layer means158.

FIG. 17shows a schematic view in part of a further alternative laminated and integrated window glazing100.5of the insulating window construction100in cross section in an explosive manner along the auxiliary line AA inFIG. 11.

The window glazing100.5comprises an inner transparent pane162made of glass or plastic like, for instance, PC, PMMA or hard polyurethane, the inner pane162is directed to an inside200of a train or passenger compartment, a first transparent interlayer163or film being adhesive and made, for instance, of PVB, PU or EVA or a corresponding foil, a capacitive touch screen160or touch sensitive panel, electrically switchable layer means166comprising an electrically switchable film between electrode layers designed for a plurality of independent darkening fields101, a middle transparent pane164made of glass or plastic like PC, PMMA or hard polyurethane, a further adhesive interlayer made of PVB, PU or EVA can be arranged between the electrically switchable layer means166and the middle pane164, wherein the electrically switchable layer means166adjoins the the interlayer163, and an outer transparent pane167made of glass or plastic like PC, PMMA or hard polyurethane which is directed to an outside300of the train or vehicle in which the window construction100is used.

Further, the window construction100comprises controlling means161or a corresponding control box equal or similar in function and construction like the controlling means14of the embodiment shown inFIG. 3which are electrically coupled to the switchable layer means166for controlling its sunlight transparency according to the darkening fields101or segments of the window construction100, the fields101are arranged horizontally as shown inFIG. 11, to the touch screen130or sensitive panel, and to a power supply157.

As being an insulating window, the window glazing100.5has a circumferential insulating spacer profile168in the shape of an inner frame extending between the middle pane164and the outer pane167. The middle pane164is flush to the periphery of the spacer profile168, it is arranged in parallel to the outer pane167and the middle pane164is vertically shorter than the outer pane167. The insulating spacer profile168surrounds and defines an air gap169or insulating space. The inner pane162is flush to the outer pane167. The interlayer163and the electrically switchable layer means166are flush to an inside circumference of the spacer profile128and they are arranged between the inner pane162and the middle pane164in a laminate. The inner and outer panes162and167are flush at upper and lower edges of the window glazing100.5.

The controlling means161or control box and the touch screen160or touch sensitive panel are arranged outside of the air gap169and of the spacer profile168at a lower edge of the window glazing100.5below the insulating spacer profile168, and they are arranged and fixed on an inside of the outer pane167. The touch screen160is arranged on the control box and is parallel to the inner and outer panes162and167and in the space there between.

In an example, each of the panes162,164, and167or glass panes can have a thickness of ca. 4 mm. The thickness of the adhesive intermediate layer163can be ca. 0.75 mm and the thickness of the switchable layer166can be ca. 1 mm. The thickness of the insulating spacer profile168can amount to ca. 10 mm. Accordingly, the thickness of the window glazing100.5can be approximately 23.75 mm.