WO2012156779A1 - A window darkening system and method for vehicles - Google Patents
A window darkening system and method for vehicles Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- WO2012156779A1 WO2012156779A1 PCT/IB2011/052128 IB2011052128W WO2012156779A1 WO 2012156779 A1 WO2012156779 A1 WO 2012156779A1 IB 2011052128 W IB2011052128 W IB 2011052128W WO 2012156779 A1 WO2012156779 A1 WO 2012156779A1
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- WO
- WIPO (PCT)
- Prior art keywords
- vehicle
- window
- darkening
- control unit
- light
- Prior art date
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Classifications
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- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60J—WINDOWS, WINDSCREENS, NON-FIXED ROOFS, DOORS, OR SIMILAR DEVICES FOR VEHICLES; REMOVABLE EXTERNAL PROTECTIVE COVERINGS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR VEHICLES
- B60J3/00—Antiglare equipment associated with windows or windscreens; Sun visors for vehicles
- B60J3/04—Antiglare equipment associated with windows or windscreens; Sun visors for vehicles adjustable in transparency
Definitions
- the present invention relates to a window darkening system and method which enables the windows in the vehicles to be darkened when it is required.
- the windows in the motor vehicles enable the drivers and the passengers to see the road or the environment and the sunlight to enter inside the vehicle.
- the sunlight coming inside the vehicle may sometimes prevent the drivers to see the road during driving.
- the components in the vehicle such as dashboard, steering wheel, seats, inner plastic coatings and the like
- a darkening process is needed in the windows whenever it is desired.
- the systems used today are mostly designed for improving the sight quality during driving. They cannot protect the components in the vehicle from the negative effects of the sun when the vehicle is in park and/or moving.
- the said systems are operated by on-off and the darkening operations are performed manually. Also in the said systems there is no window control unit communicating with the vehicle.
- United States patent document no US2009015740 an application known in the state of the art, discloses a window darkening system with the glass panels applied for the windshield, rear and side windows.
- German patent document no DE4128717 an application known in the state of the art, discloses a system which prevents the driver from being dazzled and darkens the windshield of the vehicle according to angle of the sunlight.
- United States patent document no US2003210355 an application known in the state of the art, discloses a window system which can be electronically adjustable tinting.
- the objective of the present invention is to realize a window darkening system and method which enables the windows in the vehicles to be darkened automatically and/or manually.
- Figure 1 is the schematic block diagram of the preferred embodiment of the inventive window darkening system.
- Figure 2 is the top view of inventive window, vehicle control system and the window control system in the inventive window darkening system mounted to the vehicle.
- Figure 3 are the example circuit diagrams comprised of window, layer, window control system, power supply, darkening adjusting button and the switch in the window darkening system.
- Figure 4 is the top, front and rear view of the window and the light sensor in the inventive window darkening system mounted to the vehicle.
- Figure 5 is the top, front and rear view of the window and the light sensor in the inventive window darkening system mounted to the vehicle.
- Figure 6 is the flow diagram of the inventive window darkening method. The components seen in the figure are individually numbered where the numbers refer to the following: 1. Window darkening system
- the inventive window darkening system (1) essentially comprises:
- At least one light sensor (5) which measures the intensity of the light in the environment of the vehicle (2)
- - at least one vehicle control unit (7) which enables the electric/electronic components in the vehicle (2) to be controlled
- - at least one window control unit (8) which is located inside the vehicle (2), has two different types of operation namely whole darkening mode with semi-automatic or manual control and semi-darkening mode, communicates with the sensors (4 and 5) via the vehicle control unit (7), sends electric energy to each layer (6) according to the information obtained from the said sensors (4 and 5) automatically or manually with the help of the user, and by this means enables the environmental light completely or partially to be prevented from entering inside the vehicle (Figure 1).
- the inventive window darkening system (1) operates such that it can be controlled both manually and automatically.
- semi-darkening in appropriate level is performed while driving.
- the said semi-darkening process is performed automatically when it is desired, or manually and provides more comfortable travel for the driver and the passengers.
- special conditions that can occur for example a mother breastfeeding her child, changing diaper inside the vehicle (2)
- the window control unit (8) performs the darkening operation at the same time for all the windows (3) or separately and independently for each window (3). At least one layer (6) is placed on the window (3) or between two or more glasses for darkening process ( Figure 3).
- the layer (6) darkens according to the amount of the electric energy conveyed from the window control unit (8).
- the said layer (6) is a liquid crystal display (LCD).
- the said layer (6) is film layer which changes color when it is driven with electricity.
- the darkening process is essentially performed with the electrical drive.
- the window control unit (8) obtains the energy, which it transfers to the layer (6) in the preferred embodiment of the invention, from the electrical system in the vehicle (2).
- the window control unit (8) obtains the energy, which it transfers to the layer (6), from the power supply (9).
- the said power supply (9) is an electric cell or any alternative electric supply like this ( Figure 3).
- At least one darkening adjusting button (10) is used for each window (3) ( Figure 3).
- the said darkening adjusting button (10) enables the users to adjust the electric energy going to the layer (6) manually and by this means darkening process in a desired level to be performed.
- the darkening adjusting button (10) is a potentiometer. The users performs darkening process in the desired window (3) in a desired level by using the different darkening adjusting buttons (10) belonging to the each window (3). By this means the darkening process can be performed differently in one window (3) than the other window (3) according to the user's will.
- the said darkening adjusting buttons (10) is preferably located on a place where the driver can easily reach on the steering wheel for the driver, and they are located on the place wherein the window opening-closing button group is located on the armrest on the vehicle's door panels for the passengers.
- there is at least one analogue or digital display (11) is used which enables the users to see the darkening level occurring on the windows (3) and manner of work of the window control unit (8).
- the said display (2) is preferably located on the dash board or center stack.
- At least one switch (12) is used which enables the window control unit (8) to be activated and deactivated ( Figure 3).
- the window control unit (8) When the window control unit (8) is activated by means of the said switch (12), it automatically switches to the stand-by.
- the window control unit (8) is activated and performs darkening process according to the information coming from the sensors (4 and 5) and the vehicle control unit (7), and it switches to the stand-by mode when the darkening process is finished. Again deactivating the window control unit (8) completely is performed via the switch (12) and in such condition performing any darkening process is prevented.
- there is one or more than one person detecting sensor (4) which are placed appropriately (for example place where front and middle roof lamps are located) inside the vehicle (2) ( Figure 5).
- the said sensor (4) can be a motion sensor or any sensor that detects living being in the vehicle (2). Also there is one or more than one light sensor (5) placed appropriately (for example upper part of the front and rear window (3)) outside the vehicle (2) which measures the intensity of the light in the environment ( Figure 4).
- the window control unit (8) operates by communicating the said sensors (4 and 5) via the vehicle control unit (7).
- the window control unit (8) operates automatically- semi-automatically or manually according to the information coming from the said sensors (4 and 5).
- the window control unit (8) communicates with the sensors (4 and 5) and the vehicle control unit (7) with wire or wireless ( Figure 2).
- the manner of operation of the window control unit (8) in the inventive system (1) varies according to the conditions such as whether there is a user in the vehicle (2), whether the key is on the vehicle (2), whether the environment is dark or lighted.
- the window control unit (8) obtains the information that the key is on the vehicle (2) from the vehicle control unit (7).
- the window control unit (8) switches the windows to completely darkening mode and allows manual control by detecting that the vehicle (2) is left outside and under sunlight.
- the window control unit (8) switches the selected vehicle (2) windows (3) or all vehicle (2) windows
- the window control unit (8) awaits in stand-by mode without sending any command and allows manual control.
- the window control unit (8) waits in stand-by mode without sending any command and allows manual control. ases wherein the key is not on the vehicle (2);
- the window control unit (8) switches the windows (3) to completely darkening mode by detecting that the vehicle (2) is parked outside and under sunlight.
- the window control unit (8) switches the selected vehicle (2) windows (3) or all vehicle (2) windows (3) to a predetermined semi-darkening mode automatically and allows to make changes in the said level adjustment manually if it is desired, if the person detecting sensor (4) detects motion inside the vehicle (2) (such as passenger and/or driver in the car) and the intensity of the light of the environment is lower than the predetermined level, the window control unit
- a window darkening method (100) enabling the windows (3) in the vehicles (2) to be darkened automatically and/or manually comprises the steps of:
- the window control unit (8) waiting in stand-by mode without sending any command (105),
- the window control unit (8) switching the windows (3) to the completely darkening mode (106),
- the window control unit (8) if there is any motion inside the vehicle (2), controlling whether the intensity of the light of the environment is higher than the predetermined level (107), if the intensity of the light of the environment is not higher than the predetermined level, the window control unit (8) waiting in stand-by mode without sending any command and allowing manual control (108), if the intensity of the light of the environment is higher than the predetermine level, the window control unit (8) switching the selected vehicle (2) windows (3) or all vehicle (2) windows (3) automatically to pre- adjusted semi-darkening mode and allowing manual control (109),
- the window control unit (8) waiting in stand-by mode without sending any command and allowing manual control (112), if the intensity of the light of the environment is higher than the predetermined level, the window control unit (8) switching the windows (3) to the completely darkening mode and allowing manual control (113), if there is any motion inside the vehicle (2), controlling whether the intensity of the light of the environment is higher than the predetermined level (1 14), if the intensity of the light of the environment is not higher than the predetermined level, the window control unit (8) waiting in stand-by mode without sending any command and allowing manual control (115), if the intensity of the light of the environment is higher than the predetermine level, the window control unit (8) switching the selected vehicle (2) windows (3) or all vehicle (2) windows (3) automatically to pre- adjusted semi-darkening mode and allowing manual control (116) ( Figure 6).
- the window (3) darkening processes in the inventive method (100) varies according to the conditions such as whether there is a user in the vehicle (2), whether the key is on the vehicle (2), whether the environment is dark or lighted.
- the window control unit (8) is activated via the switch (12) as the first process (101). Then the window control unit (8) obtains the information whether the key is on the vehicle (2) from the vehicle control unit (7) (102).
- the window control unit (8) controls whether there is any motion inside the vehicle (2) via the person detecting sensor (4) (103). If there is no motion inside the vehicle (2), the window control unit (8) controls whether the intensity of the light of the environment is higher than the predetermined level by measuring the intensity of the light in the environment via the light sensor (5) (104). If the intensity of the light of the environment is not higher than the predetermined level, the window control unit (8) waits in stand-by mode without sending any command (105). No darkening process is performed in such case. If the intensity of the light in the environment is higher than the predetermined level, the window control unit (8) switches the windows (3) to completely darkening mode by detecting that the vehicle (2) is parked outside and under the sun (106).
- the window control unit (8) controls whether the intensity of the light of the environment is higher than the predetermined level by measuring the intensity of the light in the environment via the light sensor (5) (107). If the intensity of the light of the environment is not higher than the predetermined level, the window control unit (8) waits in stand-by mode without sending any command and allows manual control (108). In such case, automatic darkening is not performed by the window control unit (8), but the users can perform manual darkening if it is desired.
- the window control unit (8) switches the selected vehicle (2) windows (3) or all vehicle (2) windows (3) automatically to pre-adjusted semi- darkening mode and allows manual control (109). In such case, an automatic darkening process is performed in predetermined levels and the user can change the amount of the darkening manually if it is desired. If the key is not on, the window control unit (8) controls whether there is any motion inside the vehicle (2) via the person detecting sensor (4) (110). If there is no motion inside the vehicle (2), the window control unit (8) controls whether the intensity of the light of the environment is higher than the predetermined level by measuring the intensity of the light in the environment via the light sensor (5) (111).
- the window control unit (8) waits in stand-by mode without sending any command and allows manual control (112). In such case, automatic darkening is not performed by the window control unit (8), but the users can perform manual darkening if it is desired. If the intensity of the light in the environment is higher than the predetermined level, the window control unit (8) switches the windows (3) to completely darkening mode and allows manual control by detecting that the vehicle (2) is parked outside and under the sun (113). In such case, all windows in the vehicle (2) are completely darkened automatically, but if the users want, they can change darkening adjustments manually.
- the window control unit (8) controls whether the intensity of the light of the environment is higher than the predetermined level by measuring the intensity of the light in the environment via the light sensor (5) (1 14). If the intensity of the light of the environment is not higher than the predetermined level, the window control unit (8) waits in stand-by mode without sending any command and allows manual control (115). In such case, automatic darkening is not performed by the window control unit (8), but the users can perform manual darkening if it is desired. If the intensity of the light of the environment is higher than the predetermine level, the window control unit (8) switches the selected vehicle (2) windows (3) or all vehicle (2) windows (3) automatically to pre-adjusted semi-darkening mode and allows manual control (116). In such case, an automatic darkening process is performed in predetermined levels and the user can change the amount of the darkening manually if it is desired.
- the windows (3) in the vehicles (2) are enabled to be darkened automatically and/or manually.
- the followings are enabled:
- the window control unit (8) being able to activate and deactivate itself automatically when it is activated
- the window control unit (8) being able to communicate with the vehicle control system (7) when it is activated
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Abstract
The present invention relates to a window darkening system (1) comprising at least one vehicle (2), at least one window (3), at least one person detecting sensor (4), at least one light sensor (5), at least one layer (6), at least one vehicle control unit (7), at least one window control unit (8); and a method (100) enabling the said system (1) to operate. By means of the inventive window darkening system (1) and the method (100), the windows (3) in the vehicles (2) are enabled to be darkened automatically and/or manually.
Description
A WINDOW DARKENING SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR VEHICLES
Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a window darkening system and method which enables the windows in the vehicles to be darkened when it is required.
Background of the Invention The windows in the motor vehicles enable the drivers and the passengers to see the road or the environment and the sunlight to enter inside the vehicle. The sunlight coming inside the vehicle may sometimes prevent the drivers to see the road during driving. Besides, when the vehicle is moving or in park, the components in the vehicle (such as dashboard, steering wheel, seats, inner plastic coatings and the like) can be discolored or deformed because of the sunlight coming inside the vehicle. For these reasons a darkening process is needed in the windows whenever it is desired.
Today, there are window darkening systems with different structures, but there are no automatic window darkening systems which allow manual operation when it is desired.
The systems used today are mostly designed for improving the sight quality during driving. They cannot protect the components in the vehicle from the negative effects of the sun when the vehicle is in park and/or moving. The said systems are operated by on-off and the darkening operations are performed manually. Also in the said systems there is no window control unit communicating with the vehicle.
The United States patent document no US2009015740, an application known in the state of the art, discloses a window darkening system with the glass panels applied for the windshield, rear and side windows.
German patent document no DE4128717, an application known in the state of the art, discloses a system which prevents the driver from being dazzled and darkens the windshield of the vehicle according to angle of the sunlight. United States patent document no US2003210355, an application known in the state of the art, discloses a window system which can be electronically adjustable tinting.
Summary of the Invention The objective of the present invention is to realize a window darkening system and method which enables the windows in the vehicles to be darkened automatically and/or manually.
Detailed Description of the Invention
"A window darkening system and method for vehicles" realized to fulfill the objectives of the present invention is illustrated in the accompanying figures, in which, Figure 1 is the schematic block diagram of the preferred embodiment of the inventive window darkening system.
Figure 2 is the top view of inventive window, vehicle control system and the window control system in the inventive window darkening system mounted to the vehicle.
Figure 3 are the example circuit diagrams comprised of window, layer, window control system, power supply, darkening adjusting button and the switch in the window darkening system.
Figure 4 is the top, front and rear view of the window and the light sensor in the inventive window darkening system mounted to the vehicle.
Figure 5 is the top, front and rear view of the window and the light sensor in the inventive window darkening system mounted to the vehicle.
Figure 6 is the flow diagram of the inventive window darkening method.
The components seen in the figure are individually numbered where the numbers refer to the following: 1. Window darkening system
2. Vehicle
3. Window
4. Person detecting sensor
5. Light sensor
6. Layer
7. Vehicle control unit
8. Window control unit
9. Power supply
10. Darkening adjusting button
11. Display
12. Switch
The inventive window darkening system (1) essentially comprises:
- at least one vehicle (2) which is a land vehicle
- at least one window (3) which enables the environment to be seen inside the vehicle (2),
- at least one person detecting sensor (4) which enables whether there are one or more than one people inside the vehicle (2) to be detected,
- at least one light sensor (5) which measures the intensity of the light in the environment of the vehicle (2),
- at least one layer (6) which is placed on each window (3) or between more than one windows (3), and prevents the whole or part the environmental light to come inside the vehicle (2) according to the amount of the electric energy applied thereon,
- at least one vehicle control unit (7) which enables the electric/electronic components in the vehicle (2) to be controlled,
- at least one window control unit (8) which is located inside the vehicle (2), has two different types of operation namely whole darkening mode with semi-automatic or manual control and semi-darkening mode, communicates with the sensors (4 and 5) via the vehicle control unit (7), sends electric energy to each layer (6) according to the information obtained from the said sensors (4 and 5) automatically or manually with the help of the user, and by this means enables the environmental light completely or partially to be prevented from entering inside the vehicle (Figure 1).
By means of the inventive system (1) it is aimed that the internal components (for example dash board, steering wheel, seats, inner plastic coatings and the like) of the vehicles (2), which is parked in open area in the sunny weathers, are protected from every negative effect of the sun. With this aim, the inventive window darkening system (1) operates such that it can be controlled both manually and automatically. Besides, by means of the inventive window darkening system (1) semi-darkening in appropriate level is performed while driving. The said semi-darkening process is performed automatically when it is desired, or manually and provides more comfortable travel for the driver and the passengers. Also in special conditions that can occur (for example a mother breastfeeding her child, changing diaper inside the vehicle (2)) the privacy of the personal life can be provided.
The window control unit (8) performs the darkening operation at the same time for all the windows (3) or separately and independently for each window (3). At least one layer (6) is placed on the window (3) or between two or more glasses for darkening process (Figure 3). The layer (6) darkens according to the amount of the electric energy conveyed from the window control unit (8). In the preferred embodiment of the present invention the said layer (6) is a liquid crystal display (LCD). In another embodiment of the present invention the said layer (6) is film layer which changes color when it is driven with electricity. The darkening process is essentially performed with the electrical drive. The window control unit (8) obtains the energy, which it transfers to the layer (6) in the preferred embodiment of
the invention, from the electrical system in the vehicle (2). In a further embodiment of the present invention the window control unit (8) obtains the energy, which it transfers to the layer (6), from the power supply (9). The said power supply (9) is an electric cell or any alternative electric supply like this (Figure 3).
In the preferred embodiment of the inventive system (1) at least one darkening adjusting button (10) is used for each window (3) (Figure 3). The said darkening adjusting button (10) enables the users to adjust the electric energy going to the layer (6) manually and by this means darkening process in a desired level to be performed. In the preferred embodiment of the invention the darkening adjusting button (10) is a potentiometer. The users performs darkening process in the desired window (3) in a desired level by using the different darkening adjusting buttons (10) belonging to the each window (3). By this means the darkening process can be performed differently in one window (3) than the other window (3) according to the user's will. The said darkening adjusting buttons (10) is preferably located on a place where the driver can easily reach on the steering wheel for the driver, and they are located on the place wherein the window opening-closing button group is located on the armrest on the vehicle's door panels for the passengers. In the preferred embodiment of the present invention there is at least one analogue or digital display (11) is used which enables the users to see the darkening level occurring on the windows (3) and manner of work of the window control unit (8). The said display (2) is preferably located on the dash board or center stack.
In the preferred embodiment of the present invention at least one switch (12) is used which enables the window control unit (8) to be activated and deactivated (Figure 3). When the window control unit (8) is activated by means of the said switch (12), it automatically switches to the stand-by. The window control unit (8) is activated and performs darkening process according to the information coming from the sensors (4 and 5) and the vehicle control unit (7), and it switches to the stand-by mode when the darkening process is finished. Again deactivating the window control unit (8) completely is performed via the switch (12) and in such condition performing any darkening process is prevented.
In the inventive system (1) there is one or more than one person detecting sensor (4) which are placed appropriately (for example place where front and middle roof lamps are located) inside the vehicle (2) (Figure 5). The said sensor (4) can be a motion sensor or any sensor that detects living being in the vehicle (2). Also there is one or more than one light sensor (5) placed appropriately (for example upper part of the front and rear window (3)) outside the vehicle (2) which measures the intensity of the light in the environment (Figure 4). The window control unit (8) operates by communicating the said sensors (4 and 5) via the vehicle control unit (7). The window control unit (8) operates automatically- semi-automatically or manually according to the information coming from the said sensors (4 and 5). The window control unit (8) communicates with the sensors (4 and 5) and the vehicle control unit (7) with wire or wireless (Figure 2). The manner of operation of the window control unit (8) in the inventive system (1) varies according to the conditions such as whether there is a user in the vehicle (2), whether the key is on the vehicle (2), whether the environment is dark or lighted. The window control unit (8) obtains the information that the key is on the vehicle (2) from the vehicle control unit (7).
In cases wherein the key is on the vehicle (2);
if the person detecting sensor (4) detects no one inside the vehicle (2) and the intensity of the light of the environment is higher than a predetermined level, the window control unit (8) switches the windows to completely darkening mode and allows manual control by detecting that the vehicle (2) is left outside and under sunlight.
If the person detecting sensor (4) detects anyone (such as passenger and/or in the vehicle) inside the vehicle (2) and the intensity of the light of the environment is higher than a predetermined level, the window control unit (8) switches the selected vehicle (2) windows (3) or all vehicle (2) windows
(3) to a predetermined semi-darkening mode automatically and allows to make changes in the said level adjustment manually if it is desired.
if the person detecting sensor (4) detects any one inside the vehicle (2) (such as passenger and/or driver in the car) and the intensity of the light of the environment is lower than the predetermined level, the window control unit (8) awaits in stand-by mode without sending any command and allows manual control.
If the person detecting sensor (4) detects no one inside the vehicle (2) and the intensity of the light of the environment is lower than the predetermined level, the window control unit (8) waits in stand-by mode without sending any command and allows manual control. ases wherein the key is not on the vehicle (2);
- if the person detecting sensor (4) detects no one inside the vehicle (2) and the intensity of the light of the environment is higher than a predetermined level, the window control unit (8) switches the windows (3) to completely darkening mode by detecting that the vehicle (2) is parked outside and under sunlight.
if the person detecting sensor (4) detects any motion (such as passenger and/or in the vehicle) inside the vehicle (2) and the intensity of the light of the environment is higher than a predetermined level, the window control unit (8) switches the selected vehicle (2) windows (3) or all vehicle (2) windows (3) to a predetermined semi-darkening mode automatically and allows to make changes in the said level adjustment manually if it is desired, if the person detecting sensor (4) detects motion inside the vehicle (2) (such as passenger and/or driver in the car) and the intensity of the light of the environment is lower than the predetermined level, the window control unit
(8) waits in stand-by mode without sending any command and allows manual control.
if the person detecting sensor (4) detects no one inside the vehicle (2) and the intensity of the light of the environment is lower than the predetermined level, the window control unit (8) waits in stand-by mode without sending any command.
A window darkening method (100) enabling the windows (3) in the vehicles (2) to be darkened automatically and/or manually comprises the steps of:
activating the window control unit (8) (101),
controlling whether the key is on the vehicle (2) (102),
- if the key is not on, controlling whether there is any motion inside the vehicle (2) (103),
if there is not any motion inside the vehicle (2), controlling whether the intensity of the light of the environment is higher than the predetermined level (104),
- if the intensity of the light of the environment is not higher than the predetermined level, the window control unit (8) waiting in stand-by mode without sending any command (105),
if the intensity of the light of the environment is higher than the predetermined level, the window control unit (8) switching the windows (3) to the completely darkening mode (106),
if there is any motion inside the vehicle (2), controlling whether the intensity of the light of the environment is higher than the predetermined level (107), if the intensity of the light of the environment is not higher than the predetermined level, the window control unit (8) waiting in stand-by mode without sending any command and allowing manual control (108), if the intensity of the light of the environment is higher than the predetermine level, the window control unit (8) switching the selected vehicle (2) windows (3) or all vehicle (2) windows (3) automatically to pre- adjusted semi-darkening mode and allowing manual control (109),
- if the key is on, controlling whether there is any motion inside the vehicle (2)
(110),
if there is not any motion inside the vehicle (2), controlling whether the intensity of the light of the environment is higher than the predetermined level (111),
- if the intensity of the light of the environment is not higher than the predetermined level, the window control unit (8) waiting in stand-by mode without sending any command and allowing manual control (112),
if the intensity of the light of the environment is higher than the predetermined level, the window control unit (8) switching the windows (3) to the completely darkening mode and allowing manual control (113), if there is any motion inside the vehicle (2), controlling whether the intensity of the light of the environment is higher than the predetermined level (1 14), if the intensity of the light of the environment is not higher than the predetermined level, the window control unit (8) waiting in stand-by mode without sending any command and allowing manual control (115), if the intensity of the light of the environment is higher than the predetermine level, the window control unit (8) switching the selected vehicle (2) windows (3) or all vehicle (2) windows (3) automatically to pre- adjusted semi-darkening mode and allowing manual control (116) (Figure 6).
The window (3) darkening processes in the inventive method (100) varies according to the conditions such as whether there is a user in the vehicle (2), whether the key is on the vehicle (2), whether the environment is dark or lighted. In the said method the window control unit (8) is activated via the switch (12) as the first process (101). Then the window control unit (8) obtains the information whether the key is on the vehicle (2) from the vehicle control unit (7) (102).
If the key is not on, the window control unit (8) controls whether there is any motion inside the vehicle (2) via the person detecting sensor (4) (103). If there is no motion inside the vehicle (2), the window control unit (8) controls whether the intensity of the light of the environment is higher than the predetermined level by measuring the intensity of the light in the environment via the light sensor (5) (104). If the intensity of the light of the environment is not higher than the predetermined level, the window control unit (8) waits in stand-by mode without sending any command (105). No darkening process is performed in such case. If the intensity of the light in the environment is higher than the predetermined level, the window control unit (8) switches the windows (3) to completely darkening mode by detecting that the vehicle (2) is parked outside and under the sun (106). In such case, darkening process is performed in all windows (3) of the vehicle (2). If there is any motion
inside the vehicle (2), the window control unit (8) controls whether the intensity of the light of the environment is higher than the predetermined level by measuring the intensity of the light in the environment via the light sensor (5) (107). If the intensity of the light of the environment is not higher than the predetermined level, the window control unit (8) waits in stand-by mode without sending any command and allows manual control (108). In such case, automatic darkening is not performed by the window control unit (8), but the users can perform manual darkening if it is desired. If the intensity of the light of the environment is higher than the predetermine level, the window control unit (8) switches the selected vehicle (2) windows (3) or all vehicle (2) windows (3) automatically to pre-adjusted semi- darkening mode and allows manual control (109). In such case, an automatic darkening process is performed in predetermined levels and the user can change the amount of the darkening manually if it is desired. If the key is not on, the window control unit (8) controls whether there is any motion inside the vehicle (2) via the person detecting sensor (4) (110). If there is no motion inside the vehicle (2), the window control unit (8) controls whether the intensity of the light of the environment is higher than the predetermined level by measuring the intensity of the light in the environment via the light sensor (5) (111). If the intensity of the light of the environment is not higher than the predetermined level, the window control unit (8) waits in stand-by mode without sending any command and allows manual control (112). In such case, automatic darkening is not performed by the window control unit (8), but the users can perform manual darkening if it is desired. If the intensity of the light in the environment is higher than the predetermined level, the window control unit (8) switches the windows (3) to completely darkening mode and allows manual control by detecting that the vehicle (2) is parked outside and under the sun (113). In such case, all windows in the vehicle (2) are completely darkened automatically, but if the users want, they can change darkening adjustments manually. If there is any motion inside the vehicle (2), the window control unit (8) controls whether the intensity of the light of the environment is higher than the predetermined level by measuring the intensity of the light in the environment via the light sensor (5) (1 14). If the intensity of the light of
the environment is not higher than the predetermined level, the window control unit (8) waits in stand-by mode without sending any command and allows manual control (115). In such case, automatic darkening is not performed by the window control unit (8), but the users can perform manual darkening if it is desired. If the intensity of the light of the environment is higher than the predetermine level, the window control unit (8) switches the selected vehicle (2) windows (3) or all vehicle (2) windows (3) automatically to pre-adjusted semi-darkening mode and allows manual control (116). In such case, an automatic darkening process is performed in predetermined levels and the user can change the amount of the darkening manually if it is desired.
By means of the inventive system (1) and the method (100), the windows (3) in the vehicles (2) are enabled to be darkened automatically and/or manually. In the inventive system (1) and the method (100) the followings are enabled:
- Increase in lifespan of vehicle (2) internal components (such as dash board, seats etc.) by means of protecting the said components from sun, thus decrease in vehicle costs for the end user,
being able to perform darkening process automatically depending on the passenger/living being existence inside the vehicle (2) and the light of the environment,
- the window control unit (8) being able to activate and deactivate itself automatically when it is activated,
being able to perform darkening process for each window (3) independently,
- the window control unit (8) being able to communicate with the vehicle control system (7) when it is activated,
allowing manual control when it is necessary when the window control unit (8) is activated,
comfortable travel for the driver and the passengers,
- protecting the privacy of personal life when it is desired.
It is possible to develop various embodiments of the inventive system (1) and the method (100). The invention cannot be limited to the examples described herein; it is essentially according to the claims.
Claims
A window darkening system (1) essentially comprising
- at least one vehicle (2) which is a land vehicle
- at least one window (3) which enables the environment to be seen inside the vehicle (2),
- at least one person detecting sensor (4) which enables whether there are one or more than one people inside the vehicle (2) to be detected.
- at least one light sensor (5) which measures the intensity of the light in the environment of the vehicle (2),
- at least one layer (6) which is placed on each window (3) or between more than one windows (3), and prevents the whole or part the environmental light to come inside the vehicle (2) according to the amount of the electric energy applied thereon,
- at least one vehicle control unit (7) which enables the electric/electronic components in the vehicle (2) to be controlled, and characterized by
- at least one window control unit (8) which is located inside the vehicle (2), has two different types of operation namely whole darkening mode with semi-automatic or manual control and semi-darkening mode, communicates with the sensors (4 and 5) via the vehicle control unit (7), sends electric energy to each layer (6) according to the information obtained from the said sensors (4 and 5) automatically or manually with the help of the user, and by this means enables the environmental light completely or partially to be prevented from entering inside the vehicle (Figure 1).
A window darkening system (1) according to claim 1, characterized by window control unit (8) which performs darkening process at the same time for all windows (3) or separately and independently for each window (3).
3. A window darkening system (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by at least one layer (6) which is placed on the window (3) or between two or more than two glasses for the darkening process and darkens according to the amount of the electric energy transferred from the window control unit (8).
4. A window darkening system (1) according to claim 3, characterized by layer (6) which is liquid crystal display.
5. A window darkening system (1) according to claim 3, characterized by layer (6) which is a film layer changing color when it is driven with electric.
A window darkening system (1) according to any one of the claims 3 to 5, characterized by window control unit (8) which obtains the energy, which it transfers to the layer (6), from the electric system in the vehicle (2).
A window darkening system (1) according to any one of the claims 3 to 5, characterized by window control unit (8) which obtains the energy, which it transfers to the layer (6), from the power supply (9).
A window darkening system (1) according to claim 7, characterized by power supply (9) which is electric cell.
A window darkening system (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by at least one darkening adjusting button (10) which is used for each window (3) and enables the users to manually adjust the electric energy going to the layer (6) and the darkening process to be performed in a desired level by means of this.
10. A window darkening system (1) according to claim 9, characterized by darkening adjusting button (10) which is a potentiometer.
11. A window darkening system (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by at least one analogue or digital display (11) which enables the users to see the darkening level occurring on the windows (3) and the manner of work of the window control unit (8).
12. A window darkening system (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by at least one switch (12) which enables the window control unit
(8) to be activated and deactivated completely.
13. A window darkening system (1) according to claim 12, characterized by window control unit (8) which switches into stand-by mode automatically when it is activated via the switch (12), applies darkening process according to the information coming from the sensors (4 and 4) and the vehicle control unit (7) by becoming operational.
14. A window darkening system (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by person detecting sensor (4) which is a motion sensor.
15. A window darkening system (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by window control unit (8) which communicates with the sensors (4 and 5) and the vehicle control unit (7) with wire or wireless.
16. A window darkening system (1) according to the any one of the preceding claims, characterized by window control unit (8) which obtains the information whether the key is on the vehicle (2) from the vehicle control unit (7).
17. A window darkening system (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by window control unit (8) which switches the windows to completely darkening mode and allows manual control by detecting that the vehicle (2) is left outside and under sunlight in cases wherein the key is on the vehicle (2) if the person detecting sensor (4) detects no one inside the vehicle (2) and the intensity of the light of the environment is higher than the predetermined level.
18. A window darkening system (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by window control unit (8) which switches the selected vehicle (2) windows (3) or all vehicle (2) windows (3) to automatically predetermined semi darkening mode and allows changes in the said level adjustment with manual control if it is desired in cases wherein the key is on the vehicle (2) if the person detecting sensor (4) detects anyone inside the vehicle (2) and the intensity of the light of the environment is higher than the predetermined level.
19. A window darkening system (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by window control unit (8) which awaits in stand-by mode without sending any command and allows manual control in cases wherein the key is on the vehicle (2) if the person detecting sensor (4) detects anyone inside the vehicle (2) and the intensity of the light of the environment is lower than the predetermined level.
20. A window darkening system (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by window control unit (8) which awaits in stand-by mode without sending any command and allows manual control in cases wherein the key is on the vehicle (2) if the person detecting sensor (4) detects no one inside the vehicle (2) and the intensity of the light of the environment is lower than the predetermined level.
21. A window darkening system (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by window control unit (8) which switches the windows to darkening mode by detecting that the vehicle (2) is left outside and under sunlight in cases wherein the key is not on the vehicle (2) if the person detecting sensor (4) detects no one inside the vehicle (2) and the intensity of the light of the environment is higher than the predetermined level.
22. A window darkening system (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by window control unit (8) which switches the selected vehicle (2) windows (3) or all vehicle (2) windows (3) to automatically predetermined semi darkening mode and allows changes in the said level adjustment with manual control if it is desired in cases wherein the key is not on the vehicle (2) if the person detecting sensor (4) detects motion inside the vehicle (2) and the intensity of the light of the environment is higher than the predetermined level.
23. A window darkening system (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by window control unit (8) which awaits in stand-by mode without sending any command and allows manual control in cases wherein the key is not on the vehicle (2) if the person detecting sensor (4) detects motion inside the vehicle (2) and the intensity of the light of the environment is lower than the predetermined level.
24. A window darkening system (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by window control unit (8) which awaits in stand-by mode without sending any command in cases wherein the key is not on the vehicle (2) if the person detecting sensor (4) detects no one inside the vehicle (2) and the intensity of the light of the environment is lower than the predetermined level.
25. A window darkening method (100) which enables the windows (3) in the vehicles (2) to be darkened automatically and/or manually characterized by the steps of:
activating the window control unit (8) (101),
controlling whether the key is on the vehicle (2) (102),
if the key is not on, controlling whether there is any motion inside the vehicle (2) (103),
- if there is not any motion inside the vehicle (2), controlling whether the intensity of the light of the environment is higher than the predetermined level (104),
if the intensity of the light of the environment is not higher than the predetermined level, the window control unit (8) waiting in stand-by mode without sending any command (105), if the intensity of the light of the environment is higher than the predetermined level, the window control unit (8) switching the windows (3) to the completely darkening mode (106),
if there is any motion inside the vehicle (2), controlling whether the intensity of the light of the environment is higher than the predetermined level (107), if the intensity of the light of the environment is not higher than the predetermined level, the window control unit (8) waiting in stand-by mode without sending any command and allowing manual control (108), if the intensity of the light of the environment is higher than the predetermine level, the window control unit (8) switching the selected vehicle (2) windows (3) or all vehicle (2) windows (3) automatically to pre- adjusted semi-darkening mode and allowing manual control (109), if the key is on, controlling whether there is any motion inside the vehicle (2)
(110),
if there is not any motion inside the vehicle (2), controlling whether the intensity of the light of the environment is higher than the predetermined level (1 11),
if the intensity of the light of the environment is not higher than the predetermined level, the window control unit (8) waiting in stand-by mode without sending any command and allowing manual control (112), if the intensity of the light of the environment is higher than the predetermined level, the window control unit (8) switching the windows (3) to the completely darkening mode and allowing manual control (113), if there is any motion inside the vehicle (2), controlling whether the intensity of the light of the environment is higher than the predetermined level (114), if the intensity of the light of the environment is not higher than the predetermined level, the window control unit (8) waiting in stand-by mode without sending any command and allowing manual control (115), if the intensity of the light of the environment is higher than the predetermine level, the window control unit (8) switching the selected vehicle (2) windows (3) or all vehicle (2) windows (3) automatically to pre- adjusted semi-darkening mode and allowing manual control (116).
26. A window darkening method (100) according to claim 24, characterized in that window control unit (8) is activated via the switch (12).
27. A window darkening method (100) according to claim 25 or 26, characterized in that window control unit (8) obtains the information whether the key is on the vehicle (2) from the vehicle control unit (7).
28. A window darkening method (100) according to any one of the claims 25 to 27, characterized in that the window control unit (8) controls whether there is any motion inside the vehicle (2) via the person detecting sensor (4).
29. A window darkening method (100) according to any one of the claims 25 to 28, characterized in that the window control unit (8) measures the intensity of the light in the environment via the light sensor (5).
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| PCT/IB2011/052128 WO2012156779A1 (en) | 2011-05-16 | 2011-05-16 | A window darkening system and method for vehicles |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| PCT/IB2011/052128 WO2012156779A1 (en) | 2011-05-16 | 2011-05-16 | A window darkening system and method for vehicles |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| WO2012156779A1 true WO2012156779A1 (en) | 2012-11-22 |
Family
ID=44512998
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| PCT/IB2011/052128 WO2012156779A1 (en) | 2011-05-16 | 2011-05-16 | A window darkening system and method for vehicles |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| WO (1) | WO2012156779A1 (en) |
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| FR3023510A1 (en) * | 2014-07-11 | 2016-01-15 | Peugeot Citroen Automobiles Sa | PAVILION GLAZING FOR A MOTOR VEHICLE HAVING ACTIVE FILM AND PROTECTIVE MEANS TO EXTEND ITS LIFETIME |
| EP2990244A3 (en) * | 2014-08-25 | 2016-04-13 | CLAAS Selbstfahrende Erntemaschinen GmbH | Agricultural vehicle with a cabin pane with variable transparency |
| EP3052985A4 (en) * | 2013-10-04 | 2016-09-21 | Gentex Corp | VARIABLE TRANSMITTANCE WINDOW SYSTEM |
| US9950658B2 (en) | 2013-11-21 | 2018-04-24 | Ford Global Technologies, Llc | Privacy window system |
| CN109972967A (en) * | 2019-03-01 | 2019-07-05 | 百度国际科技（深圳）有限公司 | Control method and device for vehicle window |
| CN113859100A (en) * | 2020-06-30 | 2021-12-31 | 比亚迪股份有限公司 | Visual field auxiliary system of vehicle, control method of visual field auxiliary system and vehicle |
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