Optical modulator and substrate having energy conversion layer

Abstract

Some embodiments are directed to a transparent substrate for an optical modulator. The light modulator has an optical layer. The transparent substrate has at least one electrode system applied to the substrate. The electrode system includes a stack of a substrate-side electrode, an energy conversion layer, and an optical layer-side electrode. The optical layer-side electrode is arranged for modulating an electric field in the optical layer. The energy conversion layer is configured to convert energy outside the substrate and a voltage difference between the substrate-side electrode and the optical layer-side electrode.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The presently disclosed subject matter relates to a transparent substrate for a light modulator, a light modulator, a light modulator method, a system, a computer storage medium, a method of manufacturing a substrate. BACKGROUND

[0002] A known light modulator is disclosed in WO2022023180 (included herein by reference). The known light modulator comprises a transparent or reflective substrate. A plurality of electrodes is applied to the substrate in a pattern that spans the substrate. A controller can apply an electric potential to the electrodes to obtain an electromagnetic field between the electrodes, providing electrophoretic movement of particles towards or away from the electrodes. SUMMARY

[0003] It would be advantageous to have an improved light modulator and an improved substrate that can be used therein.

[0004] One embodiment of a transparent substrate for a light modulator comprises a substrate-side electrode, an energy conversion layer, and an optical layer The optical layer-side electrode is arranged to modulate an electric field in the optical layer of the light modulator. The energy conversion layer is configured to convert energy outside the substrate into a voltage difference between the substrate-side electrode and the optical layer-side electrode.

[0005] In one embodiment, the energy conversion layer comprises a photovoltaic stack configured to convert light incident onto the substrate into the voltage difference. However, different choices can be made for the energy conversion layer. Having an energy conversion layer in the substrate of the light modulator is efficient because it generates energy. Moreover, the energy conversion layer can be employed where it would otherwise not be possible to perform energy conversion, for example solar cells, for example because they need to be used for glass. In addition, the combination of the energy conversion layer and the light modulator requires fewer electrodes than the energy conversion layer and the light modulator used separately. Moreover, the optical layer, in particular an optical layer based on a fluid, for example electronic ink, further benefits the system by acting as a heat sink for the energy conversion layer.

[0006] One aspect is an optical modulator method for an optical modulator, and a method for manufacturing a substrate as shown in one embodiment. Embodiments of this method can be implemented on a computer as a computer-implemented method, or in dedicated hardware, or a combination of both. Executable code for an embodiment of the method can be stored on a computer program product. Embodiments of the computer program product include memory devices, optical storage devices, integrated circuits, servers, online software, etc. Preferably, the computer program product includes non-transitory program code stored on a computer-readable medium for executing one embodiment of the method when the program product is executed on a computer.

[0007] In one embodiment, the computer program includes computer program code adapted to perform all or part of the steps of one embodiment of the method when the computer program is run on a computer. Preferably, the computer program is implemented on a computer-readable medium. Another aspect of the subject matter disclosed herein is a method for making a computer program downloadable. Attached Figure Description

[0008] Further details, aspects, and embodiments will be described by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings. Elements in the drawings are illustrated for simplicity and clarity and are not necessarily drawn to scale. In the drawings, elements corresponding to those already described may have the same reference numerals. In the drawings: Figure 1a schematically illustrates an embodiment of one implementation of the building block. Figure 1b schematically illustrates an embodiment of one implementation of the substrate. Figure 1c schematically illustrates an embodiment of one implementation of the substrate. Figure 1d schematically illustrates an embodiment of one implementation of the substrate. Figure 1e schematically illustrates an embodiment of one implementation of the substrate. Figure 1f schematically illustrates an embodiment of one implementation of the substrate. Figure 1g schematically illustrates an embodiment of one implementation of the optical modulator. Figures 2a to 2f schematically illustrate an embodiment of one implementation of the substrate. Figure 3a schematically illustrates an embodiment of one implementation of the optical modulator. Figure 3b schematically illustrates an embodiment of one implementation of the optical modulator. Figure 3c schematically illustrates an embodiment of one implementation of a car. Figures 4a and 4c schematically illustrate one embodiment of the optical modulator. Figure 5 schematically illustrates the materials used in one embodiment of the optical modulator. Figures 6a and 6b schematically illustrate embodiments of the dual-electrode optical modulator implementation. Figures 7a to 7g schematically illustrate embodiments of the dual-electrode optical modulator implementation. Figure 8a schematically illustrates an embodiment of the three-electrode optical modulator implementation. Figures 9a and 9e schematically illustrate embodiments of the four-electrode optical modulator implementation. Figure 10a schematically illustrates an embodiment of one implementation of the optical modulator system. Figure 10b schematically illustrates an embodiment of one implementation of the dual-electrode optical modulator system. Figure 10c schematically illustrates an embodiment of one implementation of the three-electrode optical modulator system. Figure 10d schematically illustrates an embodiment of one implementation of the four-electrode optical modulator system. Figure 11a schematically illustrates an embodiment of one implementation of the generator system. Figure 11b schematically illustrates an embodiment of one implementation of the generator system. Figure 12 schematically illustrates an embodiment of one implementation of a four-electrode optical modulator system. Figures 13a and 13b schematically illustrate embodiments of a control method for a four-electrode optical modulator system. Figure 14 schematically illustrates an embodiment of the control method for the optical modulator method. Figure 15a schematically illustrates a computer-readable medium having a writable portion, said writable portion comprising a computer program according to one embodiment. Figure 15b schematically illustrates a representation of a processor system according to one embodiment.

[0009] Reference mark list The following list of references and abbreviations used in some of the accompanying drawings is provided for the purpose of interpreting the drawings and should not be construed as such. This should be understood as a limitation on the claims.

[0010] 10. Optical modulator 11 First substrate 12 Second substrate Electrodes 13, 13a, and 13b Electrodes 14, 14a, and 14b 15 Fluid 16 Controllers 30 pieces 20 cars 21 Optical modulator 40 Optical modulator 41 First substrate 42 Second substrate 43 Third substrate 46 Controller 100-102 base plate Main Line 111-114 Main lines 121-124 131-134 Interdigitated Electrodes 140 building blocks Building blocks 141-144 110, 120 drive bus 110', 120' drive bus Connection area between 119 and 129 Directions 191 and 192 603-604 base plate Building blocks 611-622 Building blocks 651-662 151 Spacer 211 Transparent substrate 212 electrode 213 Energy Conversion Layer 214 Dielectric Materials 215 Spacer 301, 302 Optical layer side electrodes 303, 304 Optical Layer Side Electrodes 303.1 Optical layer side electrode - patterned layer 303.2 Optical layer side electrode - large area layer 301.1 Optical layer side electrode - patterned layer 301.2 Optical layer side electrode - large area layer 305, 306 Substrate-side electrodes 307, 308 Transparent substrate 309 Energy Conversion Layer 310 Optical Layer 311 dielectric layer 312 spacer 321 optical modulator 314, 315 Substrate-side electrodes 321-332 Optical Modulator 410 power generation system 420-423 Optical Modulator Drive System 431-435 Selective Connectors 413 diode 400 Selective Connection System 410 power generation system 420 optical modulator drive system 500 optical modulator 505 substrate side electrode 503 optical layer side electrode 501 Optical Layer Side Electrode 510 Energy Conversion Layer 520 grid 411 charger 412 battery 415 voltage converter 414 wall socket 1000, 1001 Computer-readable media 1010 writable portion 1020 computer program 1110 Integrated Circuit 1120 processing unit 1122 memory 1124 Application-Specific Integrated Circuit 1126 communication components 1130 interconnect 1140 processor system Detailed Implementation

[0011] While the subject matter disclosed herein allows for many different forms of implementation, one or more specific implementations are shown in the accompanying drawings and will be described in detail herein. It should be understood that this disclosure should be regarded as exemplary principles of the subject matter disclosed herein and is not intended to limit it to the specific implementations shown and described.

[0012] In the following text, for ease of understanding, the elements of the implementation scheme are described in operation. However, it will be apparent that the corresponding elements are arranged to perform the functions described herein.

[0013] Furthermore, the subject matter disclosed herein is not limited to embodiments, but also includes every other combination of features described herein or recited in different dependent claims.

[0014] This article describes an implementation scheme for an optical modulator that can generate electricity in addition to modulating light passing through it.

[0015] For example, an optical modulator can be configured to one of several states, ranging from transparent to opaque. An optical modulator combines an optical layer for modulating light with an energy conversion layer for switching energy between one form and another. The optical layer and the energy conversion layer typically each require at least one electrode on either side; interestingly, it has been shown that an electrode can be shared between the optical layer and the energy conversion layer, thus saving an electrode.

[0016] Many implementations are possible. For example, various types of optical layers and various energy conversion layers. Some types of optical layers use two electrodes, one on each side; some use three electrodes, two on one side and one on the other. Some optical layers use four or more electrodes. We refer to these implementations as dual-electrode, triple-electrode, or quad-electrode to indicate the type of optical layer. Optical modulators can have additional electrodes, for example, for energy conversion layers.

[0017] Furthermore, the arrangement of the electrodes may differ. Additionally, the methods in which energy conversion and optical modulation are driven may differ. For example, in one embodiment, a selectively connected system is used to use the electrodes for either energy conversion or optical modulation. In another embodiment, energy conversion and optical modulation occur in parallel.

[0018] A substrate for use, for example, in an optical modulator, particularly in a dynamic glass, is disclosed. The substrate is transparent, and at least one optical layer side electrode is applied to one side of the substrate, the optical layer side electrode extending in a pattern across that side of the first substrate.

[0019] This substrate is used in an optical modulator having an optical layer. Typically, the optical modulator has a first substrate as described above, and a second substrate arranged opposite to the first substrate. The optical layer extends between the first and second substrates. The second substrate also has at least one optical layer side electrode applied thereto. By applying a potential between the optical layer side electrodes of the two substrates, the optical properties of the optical modulator can be changed.

[0020] Interestingly, the first substrate also has a substrate-side electrode and a power conversion layer. The power conversion layer is located between the substrate-side electrode and the optical layer-side electrode of the first substrate. Several possible options exist for the power conversion layer, but a particularly advantageous option is photovoltaic stacking. The power conversion layer converts energy outside the substrate into energy between the substrate-side electrode and the voltage difference between the optical layer-side electrode.

[0021] Many types of optical modulators exist that can use this substrate. Figures 1a to 4c focus on the optical layer side electrodes on the first and second substrates and how they can be implemented or used in an optical modulator. Figure 5 and subsequent figures focus on the energy conversion layer and how the electrodes interact with it.

[0022] Some known optical modulators are based on the principle of electrophoresis. For example, the substrate may include multiple interdigitated optical layer side electrodes (e.g., two electrodes) applied to the substrate, each of which is arranged in a pattern across the substrate, and the multiple interdigitated optical layer side electrodes are alternately arranged on the substrate relative to each other. Having multiple interdigitated electrodes allows for localized control of the electric field to achieve controlled electrophoresis of particles.

[0023] Electrophoretic light modulators are explained more broadly herein and are used as illustrative embodiments. In one embodiment, the light modulator includes a first substrate and a second substrate. At least one of the first and second substrates may, according to one embodiment, have perforated electrodes. For example, the first and second substrates may be arranged with their inner sides facing each other. Using a substrate according to one embodiment has, for example, the effect of reducing optical interference. An optical layer is disposed between the first and second substrates. Optical layer side electrodes are arranged to modulate an electric field in the optical layer. The optical layer includes a fluid comprising particles, wherein the particles are charged or capable of being charged. The particles may be moved under the control of the electric field. For example, a controller may be configured to apply a potential to the optical layer side electrodes to obtain an electromagnetic field at the optical layer side electrodes, thereby providing electrophoretic motion of the particles toward or away from at least one of the optical layer side electrodes, resulting in modulation of the optical properties of the light modulator.

[0024] Several known optical modulators are reviewed below, illustrating some choices in technology and electrodes. These known substrates can be advantageously modified by perforating the electrodes. These embodiments also illustrate optical modulators with different numbers of electrodes on the substrate. According to one embodiment, an energy conversion layer can be incorporated into the device; particularly, an embodiment tailored to the number of optical layer-side electrodes (e.g., electrodes adjacent to a layer with modifiable optical properties). The energy conversion layer and substrate-side electrodes can be inserted between the substrate and the optical layer-side electrodes.

[0025] International patent applications WO2011012499A1 (included herein by reference) and WO2011131689 (included herein by reference) disclose light modulators in the form of electrophoretic display devices, such as electronic ink displays. The pixels of the display include an accumulation electrode and a field electrode. The accumulation electrode is arranged at a storage region to accumulate charged particles remote from a hole region, and the field electrode occupies a field electrode region, which is at least a portion of the hole region of the pixel. The charged particles are movable between the accumulation electrode and the field electrode. In one embodiment, both electrodes are applied to a single substrate. The accumulation electrode and / or the field electrode may be perforated.

[0026] U.S. Patent 10,921,678 (included herein by reference), entitled "Electrophoretic device," illustrates an electrophoresis apparatus having only one patterned electrode on one of two substrates. For example, a substrate having the electrode according to US10,921,678 can be replaced with a substrate including a single electrode according to one embodiment. For example, one embodiment includes a first transparent substrate and a second substrate, the first transparent substrate having a field electrode, and the second substrate opposite the first substrate and having an accumulation electrode. The first and second substrates surround a pixel having fluid and particles. In use, an electromagnetic field applied to the field electrode and the accumulation electrode provides movement of particles away from and towards the field electrode and the accumulation electrode. The field electrode and / or the accumulation electrode may be perforated.

[0027] U.S. Patent 8,054,535 B2 (included herein by reference) and U.S. Patent 8,384,658 B2 (included herein by reference) illustrate alternative embodiments of an electrophoretic light modulator in one of two substrates having two patterned electrodes.

[0028] Patterned electrodes are also used in dielectric electrophoretic modulators. For example, U.S. patent applications US2005185104A1 (included herein by reference) and US20180239211A1 (included herein by reference) disclose dielectric electrophoretic modulators having substrates with patterned electrodes. According to one embodiment, any of these cited electrophoretic or dielectric electrophoretic modulators can be adapted by perforating electrodes on the substrate.

[0029] The paper “Reversible Metal Electrodeposition Devices: An Emerging Approach to Effective Light Modulation and Thermal Management” (included by reference) also illustrates a substrate on which patterned electrodes are applied. The patterned electrodes can be advantageously arranged according to one embodiment.

[0030] One embodiment of the substrate can be used in an electrochromic device (ECD). An electrochromic device (ECD) controls optical properties, such as optical transmission, absorption, reflection, and / or emission, in a continuous but reversible manner when a voltage (electrochromic) is applied. This property enables the electrochromic device to be used in applications such as smart glass, electrochromic mirrors, and electrochromic display devices.

[0031] Electrochromic devices are described, for example, in the paper “Silver grid electrodes for faster switching ITO-free electrochromic devices” by António Califórnia et al. (included by reference). This paper describes the fabrication of an electrochromic device (in this case, an electrochromic device without ITO).

[0032] Electrochromic devices utilize conductive electrodes applied to a substrate. The cited paper uses a silver grid made of silver ink as the conductive electrode. Electrochromic devices may include electrochromic materials. The cited paper uses poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene)polystyrene sulfonic acid (PEDOT:PSS). In the electrochromic device, at least one optical layer-side electrode (e.g., a conductive electrode) is applied to the substrate. The optical layer-side electrodes are arranged in a pattern spanning the substrate. The cited paper discloses two different grid patterns: a conventional honeycomb design and a conventional stepped design. See Table 1 and Figure 3 of the cited paper.

[0033] Electrodes can be applied to a substrate via screen printing; in the case of the cited paper, the substrate is polyethylene terephthalate (PET). Typically, the electrodes are conductive materials, such as metals or metal oxides. In the cited paper, silver ink was used to screen print a grid onto the PET using a RokuPrintRP 2.2 apparatus with a 180-wire screen. The sample was allowed to dry in an oven at 130°C for 15 minutes. On top of these silver grids, one or two layers of PEDOT:PSS SV3 were subsequently printed via screen printing. When light passes through the electrodes, which are applied in a regular pattern in this case, the electrodes (e.g., the pattern) can be perforated according to one embodiment.

[0034] For example, the metal mesh used in the cited paper can be replaced by an optical layer side electrode applied to the substrate, which can be perforated according to one embodiment.

[0035] Another embodiment of the electrochromic device is given in U.S. Patent 5,161,048 (incorporated herein by reference) entitled “Electrochromic window with metalgrid counter electrode and acidic polyelectrolyte”. For example, the electrochromic device may include a transparent electrochromic film and an ion-conducting layer disposed between a pair of electrodes. A metal grid electrode is distributed to the electrodes. Figure 1 of the patent illustrates the metal grid according to the cited patent. To form the counter electrode, the metal grid is positioned adjacent to a second glass substrate.

[0036] For example, in one embodiment of an electrochromic device, the electrochromic device may include a transparent substrate, a conductive electrode component, a transparent electrochromic film in contact with the conductive electrode component, an ion-conducting polymer in contact with the electrochromic film, and a patterned conductive electrode in contact with the ion-conducting polymer. The patterned conductive electrode may be according to one embodiment.

[0037] The substrate according to one embodiment can be advantageously used in several other technologies. For example, the optical modulator can be a dielectric electrophoretic optical modulator, such as that shown in US20050185104A1 (included herein by reference). The substrate as described in one embodiment can also be used in other electrowetting and OLED applications.

[0038] In OLEDs and electrowetting, electrodes need to be located on only one substrate within the substrate. The substrate with electrodes can be, according to one embodiment.

[0039] Other dynamic glass technologies can also be adopted.

[0040] For example, the optical layer used in a light modulator (e.g., in dynamic glass) can employ LCD (liquid crystal display) technology. For instance, the optical layer may include liquid crystal molecules that can be aligned to control the amount of light passing through the display. When an electric current is applied to the liquid crystal molecules, they change their alignment and modify how light passes through the material. The optical layer with LCD material can be placed between two layers of glass or plastic and connected to a circuit. By controlling the current applied to the LCD material, the amount of light passing through the glass can be adjusted.

[0041] Optical layers used in light modulators (such as in dynamic glass) can employ suspended particle device (SPD) technology. This optical layer may include particles suspended within a thin film or laminate. By applying an electric current to the SPD film, the particles align and modify the amount of light passing through the material, enabling dynamic control of the glass. When the current is turned off, the suspended particles are randomly distributed, allowing more light to pass through, producing a clear or transparent effect; when the current is turned on, the particles align and absorb more light, producing a darker or tinted effect.

[0042] In applications using glass-based optical modulators, both substrates are typically transparent. In other applications, such as televisions and e-readers, only one substrate may be transparent.

[0043] Figure 1b schematically illustrates an embodiment of the substrate. The substrate is particularly useful in optical modulators (e.g., one type described herein). Multiple interdigitated optical layer side electrodes are applied to the substrate in a manner spanning the substrate. Two interdigitated optical layer side electrodes are shown in Figure 1b. The substrate also includes at least one substrate side electrode and a power conversion layer; these are not shown in Figure 1b but are shown in other figures herein.

[0044] An example of the intended use of the substrate is in an electrophoretic optical modulator. Typically, an electrophoretic optical modulator comprises at least two substrates, each having at least two optical layer side electrodes; although this is not mandatory, for example, an electrophoretic optical modulator may include a single substrate with two electrodes and an opposing substrate with one electrode. In any case, preferably, at least one of the substrates in the optical modulator is according to one embodiment.

[0045] One embodiment of the optical modulator includes a first substrate and a second substrate according to one embodiment. The first substrate and the second substrate are arranged with their inner sides facing each other. At least one optical layer side electrode is applied to the inner side of the first substrate. An optical layer is disposed between the first substrate and the second substrate. A controller is configured to apply a potential to the at least one optical layer side electrode, thereby causing modulation of the optical properties of the optical modulator. One or both of the first substrate and the second substrate are transparent and / or translucent.

[0046] Many different types of optical modulators exist, which use at least one optical layer-side electrode applied to a substrate. The optical layer and controller can be arranged to modulate optical properties using effects dependent on the potential on the optical layer-side electrode; embodiments include dielectrophoretic and electrophoretic effects. For example, optical modulation can include modulation of particles disposed in the optical layer. The number of optical layer-side electrodes can range from one on a single substrate to multiple on one or two substrates.

[0047] The optical layer disposed between the first substrate and the second substrate may include particles, such as particles suspended in a fluid. The controller may be configured to apply a potential to the side electrodes of the optical layer to cause the particles to move, thereby modulating the optical properties of the light modulator.

[0048] In one embodiment, the particles include charged particles or particles capable of carrying a charge, and the controller is configured to apply a potential to the optical layer side electrodes to obtain an electromagnetic field, thereby providing electrophoretic motion of the particles. In one embodiment, the electromagnetic field is arranged between at least two optical layer side electrodes, which are arranged on the same substrate or on different substrates.

[0049] In one embodiment, the particles include dielectric particles, and the controller is configured to apply a potential to the optical layer side electrode to apply an electric field gradient to the particles, thereby enabling the particles to move under the action of dielectric force.

[0050] The controller can apply electrical signals to one or more of the optical layer side electrodes. Implementations for controlling the dielectrophoresis force can use signals including DC and / or AC signals.

[0051] Figure 1b shows two optical layer-side electrodes on the same surface. The two optical layer-side electrodes are indicated in Figure 1b using two different dashed line patterns. More than two electrodes can exist on the same side of the substrate, for example, to allow for finer-grained control of the voltage difference across the substrate. The optical layer-side electrodes are applied to the same side of the substrate. The electrodes can be applied to the substrate by lithography (e.g., using a mask representing the electrode pattern). Electrodes can also be applied by embedding them into the substrate.

[0052] The optical layer side electrodes are electrically connected, for example, the optical layer side electrodes have the same potential everywhere. The optical layer side electrodes may include a drive bus and a main line. At least, the main line and the main line of another optical layer side electrode are interdigitated. Typically, the optical layer side electrodes extend across the substrate in a generally straight line, while the main line is curled.

[0053] In one embodiment, each of the two substrates of the optical modulator has two electrodes disposed on its inner surface. However, as mentioned, multiple electrodes on one or both substrates are not necessary. For example, one embodiment of the optical modulator includes a first substrate and a second substrate. For example, the first substrate may include one optical layer-side electrode, and the second substrate may not include an optical layer-side electrode. For example, the first substrate may include two optical layer-side electrodes, and the second substrate may include one optical layer-side electrode. For example, the first substrate may include two optical layer-side electrodes, and the second substrate may include two optical layer-side electrodes. For example, the first substrate may include more than two optical layer-side electrodes, and the second substrate may include two or more optical layer-side electrodes.

[0054] However, an optical modulator (where each substrate includes two optical layer side electrodes) is used as an inspirational embodiment. The design of a substrate characterized by two optical layer side electrodes can be adapted to have a single optical layer side electrode, for example, by connecting the two optical layer side electrodes or by removing one of them. Adapting the substrate in this way makes it suitable for use in different technologies.

[0055] Each of the plurality of optical layer-side electrodes is arranged in a pattern spanning the substrate. The plurality of optical layer-side electrodes are arranged alternately on the substrate relative to each other. Typically, the optical layer-side electrodes include a plurality of main lines, each extending across the substrate. The main lines of the optical layer-side electrodes are alternating, for example, interdigitated. For example, in FIG1b, the first optical layer-side electrode includes main lines 111-114, and the second optical layer-side electrode includes main lines 121-124. Each optical layer-side electrode is driven by its own drive bus. FIG1b shows two drive buses: drive bus 110 and drive bus 120. The optical layer-side electrodes are also used to connect the main lines together. For example, in FIG1b, drive bus 110 drives and connects main lines 111-114; drive bus 120 drives and connects main lines 121-124. More main lines than the four shown in this embodiment may exist. Using main lines is advantageous because it reduces the length of the electrodes, but it is not necessary. It is possible to use a design with only one main line for each optical layer side electrode, although having multiple is advantageous.

[0056] Multiple main lines of the first electrode and the second electrode are alternately arranged on the substrate relative to each other.

[0057] In this embodiment, there are no connections between the main lines of the electrodes other than those via a common drive bus. In one embodiment, the optical layer-side electrode includes a mesh electrode, meaning it may have additional electrical connections that can be added between the electrode lines of the same optical layer-side electrode. This improves the reliability of the electrode. Such additional connections typically span the electrode lines of another optical layer-side electrode, which can be achieved by partially positioning the additional electrical connections at a different horizontal height relative to the substrate than the electrode lines they span. For example, the entire optical layer-side electrode can be positioned at a different horizontal height than the other optical layer-side electrode. In this way, the additional connections can be placed without creating short circuits.

[0058] One illustrative application of the substrate (such as substrate 100) is in smart glass (e.g., light modulators), which can be used in homes, offices, greenhouses, automobiles, etc. The transparency or reflectivity level of the smart glass can be electrically adapted. For example, in smart glass, two substrates (such as substrate 100) are stacked such that the sides with two electrodes face each other. A fluid containing particles is surrounded between the two substrates. Smart glass implementations are further discussed below. In one implementation, electrodes (e.g., two or more electrodes) are applied to one surface of each substrate. One, two, or more electrodes may also be present on another surface of substrate 100, for example, to facilitate the stacking of three or more substrates.

[0059] The following embodiments illustrate examples of modulating transparency or reflectivity levels. The light modulator can be adapted for other optical effects. For example, embodiments can be modified for different levels of translucency rather than different levels of transparency, if desired. The type of particles used in one embodiment can be changed, for example, to particles that absorb or reflect different wavelengths, and to particles with different degrees of specular or diffuse reflection. For example, in one embodiment, the light modulator can modulate different levels of reflection. The particles can also emit light. Stacking multiple optical layers further increases the possibilities.

[0060] Two sets of alternating main circuits are sufficient to provide electrically adaptable glass; due to the alternating sets, the electric field at any part of the substrate can be controlled, as the two opposing electrodes define portions from two opposing sides.

[0061] Interestingly, the pattern of the optical layer side electrodes extending across the substrate is created by multiple repeating building blocks. As shown in Figure 1b, the optical layer side electrodes on substrate 100 show four blocks: blocks 141, 142, 143, and 144, all of which are substantially identical. The number of building blocks can be greater than four. The building blocks are repeated in two directions across the substrate (e.g., a first direction 191 (e.g., the x-direction shown horizontally in the figure) and a second direction 192 (e.g., the y-direction shown vertically in the figure)). Using building blocks is advantageous because it allows for fabrication using a stepper; however, using building blocks is not mandatory.

[0062] For example, Figure 1a schematically illustrates an embodiment of a building block 140. Building block 140 includes a plurality of interdigitated electrodes that extend across the building block in at least two directions. Four electrodes are shown in Figure 1a: electrodes 131-134. When the building block repeats across the substrate in two directions, the electrodes in the building block form optical layer-side electrodes, such as multiple main lines forming optical layer-side electrodes. Note that building blocks are typically connected in a substrate electrode design tool. Typically, a building block includes more than four electrode lines. For example, in a series of embodiments, between 8 and 12 main lines are used. However, the number of electrode lines can be higher. For example, a building block may include a number of short electrode lines near the edges that connect to lines in other building blocks when the block is repeated. Considering these offshoots, the number of lines can increase to, for example, up to 50. Obviously, the number of electrode lines can also increase when using larger building blocks. In one implementation, the number of electrode lines in the building block is between 8 and 50, or between 8 and 25, etc.

[0063] Optical layer-side electrodes formed by repeating building blocks are connected to the drive bus. Typically, electrode lines in a building block are connected to electrode lines in adjacent blocks by merging the corresponding electrode lines; however, this is not necessary, and connection areas for connecting the corresponding electrode lines can be inserted between repeating building blocks.

[0064] This step connects multiple main lines together to form a single optical layer side electrode. Figure 1b shows two connection areas 119 and 129, in which the main lines belonging to the same optical layer side electrode are connected to drive bus 110 and drive bus 120, respectively.

[0065] The electrodes shown in FIG1a are alternately dashed using the same dashed line pattern as in FIG1b. In fact, in this embodiment, what happens is that the specific electrodes of the building block of FIG1a will always terminate at either the first optical layer side electrode or the second electrode, as indicated by the dashed line pattern in this case. However, this is not always the case. Electrodes in the building block may terminate as part of either the first optical layer side electrode or the second optical layer side electrode. This can vary, for example, due to the parity of the number of electrodes in the building block, the repeating pattern of the building block, etc.

[0066] For example, for an optical modulator with two optical layer side electrodes, a specific pattern of repeating building blocks can be used, in which alternating main lines can be assigned to the two optical layer side electrodes. However, for an optical modulator with three optical layer side electrodes, the same pattern of repeating building blocks can be used, in which each next set of three main lines can be assigned to the three optical layer side electrodes.

[0067] Furthermore, the building blocks shown in Figure 1a are square, but this is not necessary. For example, the building blocks can be rectangular. In one embodiment, the shapes of the building blocks can form a so-called tessellation. For example, the building blocks can be triangles, hexagons, or even combinations of planar filled shapes.

[0068] As described, Figures 1a and 1b are schematic. This is especially true for the depiction of electrodes. The electrodes shown in Figure 1a are straight; however, in one embodiment, the electrodes on the building block are more coiled, for example, curved. By adapting the shape of the electrodes, undesirable diffraction effects can be altered.

[0069] In one embodiment, the tunable mirror includes a light modulator according to one embodiment. For example, the tunable mirror includes a transparent substrate, an optical layer, and a reflective substrate. One or both of the substrates are according to one embodiment. The tunable mirror may be electrophoretic. Typically, each substrate has two electrodes, but this is not required.

[0070] Figure 1c schematically illustrates an embodiment of substrate 101. Substrate 101 is similar to substrate 100, except for how the main lines formed by the electrodes on the building blocks are connected to the drive buses. In Figure 1a, a connection region is inserted between the repeating building blocks and drive buses 110 and 120. In the connection region, main lines belonging to the same optical layer side electrode are connected to the same drive bus. In Figure 1c, the drive buses are adjacent to the building blocks. To avoid drive buses connecting to the main lines of different optical layer side electrodes, some building blocks are modified.

[0071] For example, building block 141 may be a copy of building block 140, but electrode 134 is shortened so that main line 122 (with line 134 as part of main line 122) is not connected to bus 110. In FIG. 1c, the building blocks are substantially the same, except that some electrodes introduced into the building blocks near the drive bus are disconnected to avoid connecting the main line to the drive bus. Although all building blocks shown in FIG. 1c are modified in this manner, in one embodiment, most building blocks will not be modified, such as those not adjacent to drive buses 110, 120.

[0072] Figure 1d schematically illustrates an embodiment of one implementation of the substrate 102. In one embodiment, the electrodes in the building block are each connected to the same opposite side of the building block. This results in a main circuit formed by the electrodes on the building block connecting opposite sides of the substrate. In this case, only two drive buses (e.g., each drive bus extending along opposite sides of the substrate) are sufficient to connect and drive the optical layer side electrodes.

[0073] However, it is not required that the electrodes in a building block connect to opposite sides of the building block. While typically all electrodes in a building block will connect to both sides of the building block, these sides are not required to be opposite. The reason for this is that the electrodes can be continued through the next building block. In this case, most main lines will still connect to the same two opposite sides, but this may not happen at the edges of the substrate because there are no other building blocks there to continue carrying electrodes. To allow for more complex electrode designs on the building blocks, main lines can be connected to the drive bus from both sides, such as the two sides adjacent to the same corner of the substrate.

[0074] Figure 1d shows drive bus 110' extending along both sides of the substrate and drive bus 120' extending along the other two sides of the substrate.

[0075] The advantage of this configuration is that the drive buses can be fabricated in the same plane. However, this is not mandatory. If desired, the drive buses can be connected from three or four sides to, for example, further increase the design freedom of the building blocks. Several embodiments are presented in this paper.

[0076] Note that optical layer side electrodes (e.g., drive buses) and / or main lines are allowed to overlap. This is possible, for example, by forming a portion of dielectric material between the electrodes. For example, such overlapping electrodes can be located partially or entirely in different planes of the substrate.

[0077] For example, in one embodiment, a first optical layer side electrode may be provided. Then, a dielectric is partially provided, and finally, a second optical layer side electrode is provided. The dielectric is arranged to at least cover the intersection of the first and second electrodes. A via may be used for the lower first optical layer side electrode, for example, to connect to the lower first optical layer side electrode. The provisioning of the optical layer side electrodes may include the provisioning of a drive bus.

[0078] Figure 1e schematically illustrates an embodiment of substrate 602. In Figure 1e, the building block has been replicated multiple times. To obtain substrate 602, the building block is replicated by repeated translations along the x and y directions. Each building block shown in Figure 1e can be obtained by direct translation of any other building block.

[0079] One drawback of this configuration is that the drive buses for the different optical layer side electrodes terminate facing each other. To avoid short circuits, a small amount of space has been reserved, for example, a width comparable to the spacing between the optical layer side electrodes, such as 50 micrometers. This is not shown in Figure 1e, but the various sections of the translated drive buses need to be connected together, for example, via electrode lines.

[0080] For example, arrow 640 indicates the formation of vertical trenches; that is, two electrode lines extending parallel to each other and closely adjacent to each other. Similar trenches exist in the horizontal direction. Such trenches have been found to have an adverse effect on diffraction. If the building block has low diffraction, this design may still be superior to a pattern using a poorer building block, but it is preferable to avoid these trenches.

[0081] Figure 1f schematically illustrates an embodiment of substrate 603. In substrate 603, building blocks are repeated across the substrate, but they are arranged to avoid the trenches shown in Figure 1e. In this embodiment, the building blocks are translated and mirrored, in this case translated and mirrored in two directions.

[0082] Building block 611 is mirrored in the y-direction to form building block 621. Building block 621 is placed directly at the bottom of building block 611. Building block 611 is mirrored in the x-direction to form building block 612. Building block 612 is placed directly to the right of building block 611. Building block 611 is mirrored in both the x-direction and the y-direction to form building block 622. For example, this mirroring can be done with one side of the building block as the mirror axis.

[0083] By using mirrored building blocks, the drive buses of the same optical layer side electrodes are ensured to terminate close to each other on the substrate. By merging these drive buses, trenches are avoided and diffraction is reduced.

[0084] In one embodiment, at least the optical layer-side electrodes on the substrate have mirror symmetry; in another embodiment, the optical layer-side electrodes and the drive bus have mirror symmetry. For example, the substrate is symmetrical about the x-axis and / or about the y-axis. This is a significant advantage in manufacturing because it allows the top and bottom substrates to be identical. It eliminates the need to manufacture separate substrates for the top and bottom of the light modulator, and also eliminates the need to track individual types of substrates. Furthermore, the symmetry of the substrate allows a damaged top substrate to be replaced by the bottom substrate, and vice versa—because they are identical. A straight line, such as the drive bus along the axis of mirror symmetry, is helpful because the design can be mirrored around it. Using building blocks in both mirrored and non-mirrored forms facilitates mirror-symmetric designs.

[0085] This is particularly advantageous in manufacturing processes where electrode patterning is performed using photolithography, as the same substrate pattern can be used on both substrates of the optical modulator, thus limiting production costs. The presence of straight busbars attached to or as part of each building block facilitates this effect. In the absence of straight busbars, it is possible to have a symmetrical design in one direction to use the same electrode pattern on all substrates, for example, by locally modifying the electrode design at the edges of the symmetry line. In one embodiment, the optical layer-side electrode pattern has at least one symmetry in at least one direction; for example, using building blocks tiled by mirroring and / or rotation, an electrode pattern design spanning the substrate can be achieved.

[0086] Figures 2a to 2f schematically illustrate embodiments of substrates with interdigitated electrodes. These can be implemented on substrates with two electrodes, for example, by alternating connections of the electrodes. Figures 2a to 2d can also be implemented on substrates with multiple electrodes, for example, by sequentially connecting three or four or more electrodes.

[0087] Figures 2e and 2f illustrate designs with two optical layer side electrodes on the substrate surface. Either design can be modified to have only a single optical layer side electrode on the substrate surface, for example, by removing one of the two optical layer side electrodes. For instance, such a modified design could be used in optical modulators employing a substrate with a single electrode.

[0088] The designs shown can be implemented in a single plane without the need for cross electrodes. Specifically, if these designs are connected to two drive buses, cross electrodes are not required. When using more than two optical layer side electrodes, or if more complex electrode patterns are used, electrode crosses can be used, or may even be necessary. However, such crosses are possible, for example, by placing dielectric material between the electrodes at the location where the two electrode lines cross. For example, such an insulator can be placed at the cross location. For example, the first optical layer side electrode is located in the first plane of the substrate, and the second optical layer side electrode is located in the second plane of the substrate.

[0089] According to one embodiment, two substrates can be combined to form an optical modulator. Optical modulators are particularly suitable for glass. An exemplary embodiment of an optical modulator is shown below.

[0090] Figure 3a schematically illustrates an embodiment of a light modulator 10 that can be applied to smart glass.

[0091] Reference is made to patent application PCT / EP2020 / 052379, which is incorporated herein by reference; this application includes advantageous designs for optical modulators, which may be further improved, for example, by including electrodes, building blocks and / or substrates as explained herein.

[0092] The optical modulator 10 is capable of electronically switching between a transparent state and a non-transparent state, and between a non-transparent state and a transparent state, or between a reflective state and a non-reflective state, and between a non-reflective state and a reflective state. The optical modulator 10 includes a first substrate 11 and a second substrate 12 arranged opposite to each other. At least two optical layer side electrodes are applied to the inner side of the first substrate 11: shown as electrodes 13a and 13b. These at least two electrodes are collectively referred to as electrode 13. At least two electrodes are applied to the inner side of the second substrate 12: shown as electrodes 14a and 14b. These at least two electrodes are collectively referred to as electrode 14. One or both substrates may also include substrate side electrodes and an energy conversion layer.

[0093] A fluid 15 is disposed between the substrates. The fluid includes particles 30 (e.g., nanoparticles and / or microparticles), wherein the particles are charged or capable of carrying a charge. For example, the particles may inherently carry a charge on their surface. For example, the particles may be surrounded by charged molecules.

[0094] Depending on the applied electric field, the electrodes are arranged to drive particle 30 toward or away from the electrodes. Optical properties, particularly the transparency or reflectivity of the light modulator, depend on the position of particle 30 in the fluid. For example, a connection can be provided to apply an electromagnetic field to the electrodes.

[0095] At least one, but preferably two, electrodes 13 and 14 are according to one embodiment, although they are schematically shown in the figures.

[0096] In one embodiment, at least one of the electrode patterns on the first substrate and the electrode patterns on the second substrate has a low computational pixelation noise metric that contributes to diffraction. Interestingly, individual electrode patterns on the substrates may not meet the limits for their pixelation noise metrics, but combinations of them (i.e., their superpositions) may. Since this is the pattern visible when viewed through a light modulator, the low pixelation noise metric in the superposition will also contribute to low diffraction. Suitable limits for the patterns on the first and / or second substrates, or for the superposition, include: less than 6.05%, less than 5%, or less than 4%.

[0097] In one embodiment, substrates 11 and 12 are optically transparent to the outside of the electrodes, typically >95% transparent at the relevant wavelengths, such as >99% transparent. When the electrodes are taken into account, the transparency is much lower, for example, 70%. The term "optical" can refer to wavelengths visible to the human eye (about 380 nm to about 750 nm) (where applicable) and can also refer to a wider range of wavelengths (including infrared (about 750 nm to 1 μm) and ultraviolet (about 10 nm to 380 nm) and sub-selections thereof) (where applicable). In exemplary embodiments of the optical modulator, the substrate material is selected from glass and polymers.

[0098] In another embodiment, one substrate (such as bottom substrate 12) may be reflective or partially reflective, while top substrate 11 is transparent. Optical properties (especially the reflectivity of the light modulator) depend on the position of the particles 30 in the fluid. When the panel is in the (vertically driven) open state, the particles will be mostly located between the opposing electrodes of the two substrates, so that incident light can pass relatively unobstructed through the transparent top substrate and optical layer, and be reflected or partially reflected on the bottom substrate.

[0099] The distance between the first substrate and the second substrate is typically less than 30 μm, such as 15 μm. In an exemplary embodiment of the optical modulator, the distance between the first substrate and the second substrate is less than 500 μm, preferably less than 200 μm, preferably less than 100 μm, and even more preferably less than 50 μm, such as less than 30 μm.

[0100] In one embodiment, the modulator may be disposed in a flexible polymer, and the remainder of the device may be disposed in glass. The glass may be rigid or flexible glass. If desired, a protective layer may be disposed on a substrate. If more than one color is used, more than one layer of flexible polymer may be disposed. The polymer may be polyethylene naphthalate (PEN), polyethylene terephthalate (PET) (optionally having a SiN layer), polyethylene (PE), etc. In another embodiment, the device may be disposed in at least one flexible polymer. Thus, the modulator can be attached to any surface, for example, by using an adhesive.

[0101] Particle 30 may be adapted to absorb light, thereby preventing certain wavelengths from passing through. Particle 30 may reflect light; for example, the reflection may be specular, diffuse, or a mixture of specular and diffuse reflection. The particle may absorb some wavelengths and reflect others. The particle may also, or alternatively, emit light using, for example, phosphorescence, fluorescence, etc. Even fluids may emit light, and their emissivity may be modulated by changing the position of the particles.

[0102] In one exemplary embodiment of the optical modulator, the nanoparticles have a size of 20 nm to 1000 nm, preferably 20 nm to 300 nm, and more preferably less than 200 nm. In one exemplary embodiment of the optical modulator, the nanoparticles / microparticles may include a pigment coating and preferably include a core. In one exemplary embodiment of the optical modulator, the coating of the particles is made of a material selected from conductive and semiconductive materials.

[0103] In one exemplary embodiment of the optical modulator, the particles are adapted to absorb light with wavelengths from 10 nm to 1 mm, such as light from 400 nm to 800 nm, 700 nm to 1 μm, and 10 nm to 400 nm, and / or to absorb a portion of light (filter) whose wavelength range falls within 10 nm to 1 mm, as well as combinations thereof.

[0104] In one exemplary embodiment of the optical modulator, the particles are charged or capable of being charged. For example, the charge on the particles can be from 0.1e to 10e per particle (5... 10 -7 Up to 0.1C / m 2 ).

[0105] In one exemplary embodiment of the optical modulator, the amount of fluid present is 1 g / m³. 2 Up to 1000 g / m 2 Preferably 2 g / m 2 Up to 75 g / m 2 More preferably 20 g / m 2 Up to 50 g / m2 Such as 30 g / m 2 Up to 40 g / m 2 A significant advantage of the layout of this invention is that it allows the use of less fluid, and similarly, fewer particles.

[0106] In one exemplary embodiment of the optical modulator, the amount of particles present is 0.01 g / m². 2 Up to 70 g / m 2 Preferably 0.02 g / m 2 Up to 10 g / m 2 Such as 0.1 g / m 2 Up to 3 g / m 2 .

[0107] In one exemplary embodiment of the optical modulator, the color of the particles is selected from cyan, magenta, and yellow, as well as from black and white, and from combinations thereof.

[0108] The optical modulator can also be configured to modulate only or primarily non-visible light, such as ultraviolet or near-infrared light, for example, ultraviolet light in the range of about 10 nm to 380 nm and near-infrared light in the range of about 750 nm to 1 µm, respectively.

[0109] In one exemplary embodiment of the optical modulator, the fluid includes one or more of surfactants, emulsifiers, polar compounds, and compounds capable of forming hydrogen bonds.

[0110] Fluid 15 can be a nonpolar fluid with a dielectric constant less than 15. In an exemplary embodiment of the optical modulator, the relative permittivity of the fluid is... Less than 100, preferably less than 10, such as less than 5. In an exemplary embodiment of the optical modulator, fluid 15 has a dynamic viscosity greater than 10 mPa·s.

[0111] Electrodes 13a, 13b and electrodes 14a, 14b are in fluid contact with the fluid. The fluid may be in direct contact with the electrodes or indirect contact with the electrodes, for example, the fluid may contact a second medium to contact the electrodes, such as through a porous layer. In one embodiment, the electrodes cover about 1% to 30% of the substrate surface. In one embodiment, the electrodes comprise a resistivity of less than 100 Ω·cm. The conductive material (at 273 K; for comparison, the typically used ITO has 105 K) This is similar to having a conductivity >1 at 20ºC. 10 7 S / m).

[0112] In one embodiment of the optical modulator, the electrodes comprise copper, silver, gold, aluminum, graphene, titanium, indium, and combinations thereof, preferably copper. The electrodes may be in the form of microwires embedded in a polymer substrate; for example, copper microwires.

[0113] A connection is provided for applying an electromagnetic field to electrodes, wherein the electromagnetic field applied to the electrodes provides movement of nanoparticles and microparticles from a first electrode to a second electrode, and provides movement of nanoparticles and microparticles from a second electrode to a first electrode. A connection for applying an electromagnetic field to electrodes may be provided. For example, in an exemplary embodiment of an optical modulator, the current is between -100 µA and +100 µA, preferably between -30 µA and +30 µA, more preferably between -25 µA and +25 µA. For example, a power supply may be electrically connected to at least two electrodes. The power supply may be adapted to provide waveform power. At least one of amplitude, frequency, and phase may be adapted to provide different states in the optical modulator. For example, these aspects of the power may be adapted by a controller.

[0114] The optical modulator 10 may include one or more segments, each segment being a single optically switchable entity that can be varied in size. A substrate surrounds a volume, which may be at least partially a segment.

[0115] This device may include a driving circuit that alters the appearance of a (individual) segment by applying an electromagnetic field. Therefore, the appearance of the optical modulator, or one or more portions thereof, can be changed. For example, the segment may have a diameter of at least 1 mm. 2 The area. This design allows for stacking to allow for more colors; for example, for full-color applications, stacking two or three modulators can provide most or all of the colors separately.

[0116] Having one or more segments allows the light modulator to be locally controlled; this is advantageous for some applications, but not essential. For smart glass, the light modulator can be used with or without segments. For example, when applied to smart glass, transparency or reflectivity can be locally controlled, such as blocking sunlight spots without reducing the overall transparency or reflectivity of the window. The segments can be relatively large, for example, having a diameter of at least 1 mm or at least 1 cm.

[0117] In one exemplary embodiment of the optical modulator, substrates (11, 12) are aligned, and / or electrodes (13, 14) are aligned. For example, electrodes 13a, 13b and electrodes 14a, 14b may be aligned opposite each other. In the aligned substrates, when viewed in a direction orthogonal to the substrates, the electrodes on the different substrates fall behind each other. When the optical modulator is disassembled, both substrates are arranged with their electrode faces upward, and the electrode patterns are mirror images of each other.

[0118] Aligning substrates can increase the maximum transparency or maximum reflectivity of an optical modulator. On the other hand, when selecting an optical modulator for more criteria than just transparency or reflectivity ranges, it may be better to misalign or not fully align the two substrates. Optical modulators can be stacked. For example, two stacked optical modulators can be made from three substrates, with the middle substrate having electrodes on both of its surfaces. In one embodiment of the optical modulator, optionally at least one substrate 11, 12 of the first optical modulator is identical to substrate 11, 12 of at least one second optical modulator. For stacked modulators, alignment can also increase maximum transparency or maximum reflectivity, but may be detrimental to other considerations (e.g., diffraction).

[0119] Figure 3b schematically illustrates an embodiment of an optical modulator 40. The optical modulator 40 is similar to the optical modulator 10, except that it includes multiple optical layers; in the illustrated embodiment, it includes two optical layers. More than two optical layers may be present. Each optical layer is disposed between two substrates. The optical modulator 40 can be viewed as a stack of the dual-substrate optical modulators of Figure 3a. As shown, the optical modulator 40 includes three substrates: a first substrate 41, a second substrate 42, and a third substrate 43. Optical layers are located between substrates 41 and 42, and between substrates 42 and 43. The optical layers may be similar to those in the optical modulator 10. A controller 46 is configured to control the current on the electrodes of the substrates. For example, in Figure 3b, the controller 46 may be electrically connected to at least eight (4 times 2 equals 8) electrodes.

[0120] Interestingly, the particles in the multiple optical layers can be different, allowing multiple layers to be used to control multiple optical properties of the light modulator. For example, particles located in different optical layers can absorb or reflect different wavelengths, such as having different colors. This can be used to create different colors and / or different color intensities on the panel via controller 46. For example, a quad-substrate panel can have three optical layers with particles of different colors (e.g., cyan, yellow, and magenta). By controlling the transparency or reflectivity of different colors, a broad color spectrum can be created.

[0121] The substrate surface facing another substrate may be provided with two or more patterns, as in one embodiment. For example, outer substrates 41 and 43 may receive electrodes only on the inner side, while the inner substrate (e.g., substrate 42) may have electrodes on both sides.

[0122] Substrate 41 and substrate 42 can be considered together as one embodiment of an optical modulator. Similarly, substrate 42 and substrate 43 can be considered together as one embodiment of an optical modulator.

[0123] One or more substrates 41, 42, and 43 may be provided with an energy conversion layer and substrate-side electrodes. Therefore, the energy conversion layer can be combined with multiple optical layers. Multiple energy conversion layers, or even multiple energy conversion layers of various types, can be used. For example, different substrates may have different energy conversion layers, or a single substrate may have multiple energy conversion layers.

[0124] Figure 3c schematically illustrates an embodiment of a car 20 having smart glass for window 21. This is a particularly advantageous embodiment because the level of incident light changes frequently and rapidly during driving. An advantage of using smart glass in a car is that the light level can be maintained at a constant level by adjusting the transparency of the car window. Furthermore, reduced diffraction effects improve safety because they reduce driver distraction. The car 20 may include a controller configured to control the transparency or reflectivity of window 21.

[0125] Smart glass can also be used in other glass applications, especially where the amount of incident light is variable, such as in buildings, offices, homes, greenhouses, and skylights. Skylights are windows installed in the ceiling to allow sunlight into a room.

[0126] The optical modulator can have two optical states, such as a transparent state and a non-transparent state, or a reflective state and a non-reflective state. The optical modulator (e.g., optical modulator 10 or optical modulator 40) can be configured as follows: - Switching to the second optical state (e.g., a non-transparent or non-reflective state) is achieved by: creating an alternating voltage on at least one of the first and second substrates; applying an alternating current between at least the first and second electrodes on the first substrate; and / or applying an alternating current between the first and second electrodes on the second substrate. - Switching to the first optical state (e.g., transparent or reflective state) is achieved by: creating an alternating voltage between the first substrate and the second substrate, applying an alternating current between the first electrode on the first substrate and the first electrode on the second substrate, and / or applying an alternating current between the second electrode on the first substrate and the second electrode on the second substrate.

[0127] The electrode pattern on the first substrate is arranged at least partially in the same pattern as the second electrode on the second substrate. Typically, the electrodes are opposite each other, but the patterns of the first electrode and the second electrode may also be shifted relative to each other.

[0128] The protective coating may be applied to at least a portion of the inner surface region of at least one of the first substrate and the second substrate.

[0129] The drive signal applied to the optical layer side electrodes typically has a varying voltage. For example, the power supply can operate at an AC frequency to switch between a transparent state and a non-transparent state. This signal can have a frequency, for example, between 1 Hz and 1000 Hz. A balanced electrolytic current can be obtained by continuously switching the polarities of the electrodes with opposite charges on the first substrate and on the second substrate and / or between the first and second substrates.

[0130] Figures 4a and 4b schematically show side views of one embodiment of an optical modulator in use. Only the optical layer side electrodes are shown in these figures. The substrate side electrodes and the energy conversion layer are not shown in these figures.

[0131] Applying an electric field to the electrodes on the substrate results in electrical current being applied to the particles. Using this effect, the particles can be moved back and forth, thus creating different states of transparency or reflectivity in the light modulator. A controller can control the electric field, such as its amplitude, frequency, and phase. In one embodiment, the controller is connected to at least four electrodes: two electrodes per substrate. However, more electrodes can be used and connected to the controller; for example, more than two electrodes can be used on the substrate for better fine-tuning of grayscale and to drive it to a non-transparent or non-reflective state. Multiple electrodes can also be used to support multiple segments on the substrate.

[0132] Figure 4a shows the light modulator without an applied electric field. In Figure 4a, no electricity has been applied to the particles 30 suspended in the fluid 15.

[0133] In the configuration shown in Figure 4a, the conductive electrode pattern arranged on the top substrate is completely or substantially aligned with the conductive electrode pattern on the bottom substrate. The conductive electrode pattern may be disposed on a transparent or (partially) reflective glass substrate, or may be embedded in a plastic substrate, etc.

[0134] Alignment between the top and bottom electrode patterns contributes to a wider range of achievable transparency or reflectivity levels. However, alignment is not necessary, as a similar effect can be obtained without alignment. A similar range of transparency or reflectivity can be achieved without alignment.

[0135] Note that in these embodiments, references to top substrate and bottom substrate refer to the higher substrate or the lower substrate on the page. The same substrate may also be referred to as, for example, front substrate and rear substrate, because in glass applications, the substrates will be vertically aligned rather than horizontally aligned.

[0136] Figure 4b illustrates a light modulator in which, for example in example P1, a potential of +V1 is applied to each microwire electrode on the top substrate, while a negative voltage, such as -V1, is applied to each microwire electrode on the bottom substrate. Thus, in this case, the same positive potential is applied to all electrodes 13, and the same negative potential is applied to electrode 14. The potential difference causes negatively charged particles to flow to the vicinity of the electrodes on the top substrate, where the particles will be substantially aligned with the top electrodes. As a result, if both the top and bottom substrates are transparent, the transparency of the light modulator 10 will increase. Similarly, if, for example, the top substrate is transparent and the bottom substrate is reflective, the reflectivity of the light modulator 10 will increase. If the solution contains positively charged particles, they will flow to the vicinity of the electrodes on the bottom substrate, where those particles will be substantially aligned with the bottom electrodes.

[0137] In the second instance P2 (where the voltages of the top and bottom electrodes are opposite to those in instance P1), a similar transparency or reflectivity can be achieved. In instance P2, each electrode on the top substrate is now supplied with a negative potential -V1, while the aligned electrodes on the bottom substrate are supplied with a positive potential. This state is similar to that shown in Figure 4b, but the top and bottom substrates are interchanged. In this configuration, the transparency or reflectivity of the light modulator 10 is also high.

[0138] Interestingly, by switching between a positive potential at the electrode of the top substrate (e.g., electrode 13 shown in FIG. 4b) and a negative potential at the electrode of the bottom substrate (e.g., electrode 14 shown in FIG. 4b), transparency or reflectivity can be maintained while reducing corrosion damage to the electrodes. This alternating electric field can be achieved by applying alternating potentials to the top and bottom electrodes.

[0139] Applying an alternating waveform is optional, but it is an effective measure to increase the lifetime of the optical modulator by reducing corrosion. For example, when using copper electrodes, corrosion may occur because copper ions are dissolved in an ionic fluid at one substrate and flow to the electrodes on the opposite substrate, where they deposit. By applying a waveform, the direction of copper ion transport is frequently reversed, thereby reducing corrosion damage. Between two instances P1 and P2, the corrosion current between the two substrates is balanced, or substantially balanced, for example, >95% balanced, for example, as the corrosion rate of the top electrode occurs, there is balanced copper deposition on the bottom electrode between each time instance P1 and P2 and between each time instance P2 and P1. Therefore, particles continuously change or migrate between the top and bottom electrodes, and the optical modulator or smart window is always open, while the dynamic electrolytic current between the top and bottom electrodes is constant, resulting in no net loss of electrode material on the top and bottom substrates, or a negligible net loss of electrode material.

[0140] Since the voltages on electrodes 13 are equal, the energy conversion layer can form a potential between electrodes 13 and the substrate-side electrodes (not shown in FIG. 4b). The same applies to the second substrate (bottom substrate), if an energy conversion layer is also applied thereto.

[0141] Figure 4c illustrates how a reduced transparency or reflectivity state can be obtained. An alternating voltage is applied to the same substrate. For example, in one embodiment, a potential +V2 is applied to the first electrode, and the next immediately adjacent electrode has an opposite potential -V2, etc., as shown in Figure 8c. This can be achieved by applying a potential +V2 to electrode 13a and an opposite potential -V2 to electrode 13b. On opposing substrates, a potential +V2 can be applied to electrode 14a, and an opposite potential -V2 can be applied to electrode 14b. For example, the electrodes can be arranged such that the electrodes on the substrates are aligned; the electrode on the top substrate has an electrode opposite to the electrode on the bottom substrate, and vice versa. For example, to reduce transparency or reflectivity, opposing electrodes can receive the same potential, while adjacent electrodes receive opposite potentials. One embodiment is shown in Figure 4c, where four electrodes are indicated by reference numerals 13a, 13b, 14a, and 14b, and the remaining electrodes continue to alternate.

[0142] By using this AC drive cycle between the top and bottom substrates, diagonal and lateral electric fields are generated between the two substrates, resulting in disordered diffusion of particles and thus creating a closed state of the optical modulator. As a result of this configuration, particles migrate diagonally and laterally between the top and bottom substrates, and particle diffusion into the visible aperture of the optical modulator contributes to both the closed and opaque states of the optical modulator.

[0143] Regarding the transparent state shown in Figure 4b, a waveform can be applied to the electrodes, causing, for example, an electrode with a positive potential shown in Figure 4b to become a negative potential, and vice versa. As shown in Figure 4b, applying a waveform between, for example, electrodes 13a and 13b and between electrodes 14a and 14b reduces corrosion damage to the electrodes.

[0144] An AC drive cycle can be implemented by using an interdigitated circuit configuration in conjunction with the top and bottom electrodes shown in the plan views of Figures 1a, 1b, 2a to 2f, etc.

[0145] The increase or decrease in transparency or reflectivity in Figures 4b and 4c depends on the voltage difference and frequency difference. The amount of increase or decrease in transparency or reflectivity is controlled by changing the voltage difference. For example, a curve representing transmittance relative to voltage can be determined (e.g., measured). To obtain a specific transmittance level (e.g., a specific transparency, such as a specific grayscale level), a corresponding voltage (e.g., AC voltage) can be applied. The level between transparency and opacity can be obtained by interpolating the transparent state signal or the non-transparent state signal. Similarly, a curve representing light reflection relative to voltage can be determined (e.g., measured). To obtain a specific reflectivity level, a corresponding voltage (e.g., AC voltage) can be applied. The level between reflection and non-reflection can be obtained by interpolating the reflective state signal or the non-reflective state signal.

[0146] Different electrode patterns can be used in optical modulators. Each electrode pattern can provide a grayscale range (e.g., a level of transparency or reflectivity) achievable by the optical modulator. However, the specific grayscale range of any particular electrode pattern can differ from that of another electrode pattern. In other words, although different patterns offer increased transparency or reflectivity or increased opacity, the precise response to the driving signal depends on many factors (including the specific pattern used). Variations in the optical properties of the optical modulator can have fine resolution (e.g., less than 1 mm). Note that pixelation of the optical modulator is not required to achieve different optical patterns (e.g., signs) visible within the optical modulator.

[0147] This effect can embed a visible image into a light modulator by locally altering the electrode pattern on the substrate of the light modulator. For example, due to different electrode patterns, gray levels with permanent gray-level offsets relative to each other can be locally achieved. For example, by locally altering the electrode pattern or its pitch, the maximum transparency or maximum reflectivity can be changed.

[0148] As a result, regions on the light modulator have different grayscale intensities (e.g., different grayscale levels) or different tinting intensities. However, these regions can have the same color point. In one embodiment, these regions can be switched together with the rest of the window, despite the different rates. For example, even if the same voltage is applied to electrodes in two different regions, they will result in different transparency states (e.g., different transmittance levels) due to different electrode patterns. For example, the curve representing transmittance relative to voltage can be shifted. For example, if the voltage control is changed in the same way in both regions, the light transmittance in these two regions can change, but by different amounts. Regions can also reduce their response to drive signals by reducing the density of electrodes; in particular, regions can remain unswitched, for example, by not applying electrodes to that region.

[0149] For example, electrode materials can be copper, aluminum, gold, indium tin oxide (ITO), etc. ITO is transparent, while Cu / Al is reflective; therefore, different electrode materials can achieve different appearances, regardless of the driving voltage. Similarly, different materials have different resistances, resulting in different electric fields. For example, even when driven with the same voltage, ITO will have a smaller electric field.

[0150] One embodiment of the method for modulating light includes applying a potential to a plurality of optical layer-side electrodes (in one embodiment, the plurality of optical layer-side electrodes are applied to two opposing substrates) to obtain an electromagnetic field between the plurality of optical layer-side electrodes, thereby providing electrophoretic motion of particles toward one of the plurality of optical layer-side electrodes or providing electrophoretic motion of particles away from one of the plurality of optical layer-side electrodes, thereby resulting in modulation of light illuminating through the substrates, wherein the two opposing substrates are as in one embodiment.

[0151] In Figure 4c, the voltages on electrode 13 are different. This can have complex effects on the power conversion layer. One solution is to introduce a selective interconnect system that disconnects the optical layer electrodes from the power generation system. Another solution is to use multiple substrate-side electrodes so that the different voltages on electrode 13 can also be applied to the substrate-side electrodes by bias. The same applies to the second substrate (bottom substrate), if it also has a power conversion layer applied to it.

[0152] Figure 5 schematically illustrates the materials used in an embodiment of the optical modulator. For ease of understanding, Figures 6a through 11 use the same cross-sectional line style to represent the same or similar materials.

[0153] For example, a transparent substrate is represented using style 211. A transparent substrate may include, for example, plastic or glass. The substrate typically includes a dielectric material.

[0154] Style 212 represents an electrode. The electrode is conductive. The electrode can be transparent or opaque. Various embodiments of the electrode can be employed. For example, the electrode can include a large-area electrode. The large-area electrode covers essentially the entire area of ​​the optical modulator; for example, at least 90%, or even 95%, or more of the area. Alternatively, the electrode can be finger-like, for example, formed as multiple electrode lines extending across a substrate. Multiple finger electrodes can be combined on the same substrate, in which case the electrode lines are typically alternating; this is commonly referred to as interdigitated. Finger electrodes are typically patterned. The electrode can also simultaneously comprise interdigitated layers and large-area layers.

[0155] Interdigitated electrodes can be located at different horizontal heights on the substrate so that they appear interdigitated when viewed from above (e.g., when projected onto the substrate). Interdigitated electrodes can be mesh electrodes. A benefit of mesh electrodes is that a break in the connection at one point does not cause a portion of the electrode to completely lose its connectivity. Two mesh electrodes can be interdigitated by placing them at different horizontal heights. Alternatively, two mesh electrodes can be placed on the same substrate and separated from each other at their intersections by a dielectric material.

[0156] Style 213 represents an energy conversion layer. The most common embodiment of an energy conversion layer is a photovoltaic cell. This document describes embodiments of energy conversion layers that can be used in the implementation.

[0157] Style 214 represents a dielectric. To prevent the two electrodes from contacting each other, a dielectric can be inserted between them.

[0158] Style 215 indicates a spacer. A spacer can be positioned between two substrates to maintain a constant distance between them in an optical modulator. The spacer typically comprises a dielectric material, such as glass or plastic. The spacer is optional. If the substrate and / or its housing are sufficiently robust, a spacer is not required.

[0159] Figure 6a schematically illustrates an embodiment of a dual-electrode optical modulator 321. Figure 6a shows a first substrate 307 according to one embodiment. The first transparent substrate 307 is generally transparent. An electrode system is arranged on the first transparent substrate 307. The electrode system includes, in this order, starting from the first substrate 307: a substrate-side electrode 305, an energy conversion layer 309, and an optical layer-side electrode 303.

[0160] A second substrate 308 is disposed opposite to the first substrate 307. In this embodiment, an optical layer side electrode 301 is applied to the second substrate. An optical layer 310 is disposed between the first substrate 307 and the second substrate 308.

[0161] The optical properties of optical layer 310 can be modulated by applying a voltage difference across the optical layer, for example, by applying a voltage difference to optical layer side electrodes 303 and 301. If multiple optical layer side electrodes are applied to the first or second substrate, the voltage difference can be applied along the optical layer rather than across it. Depending on the type of optical layer used, various optical effects can be produced.

[0162] In this embodiment, spacer 312 is disposed between the first substrate and the second substrate. The spacer is optional. The spacer is not shown in the following figures, but one or more spacers may be used if required (e.g., for structural integrity).

[0163] The dielectric material 311 can be used for a variety of purposes. For example, Figure 6a shows a dielectric layer, such as a coating, disposed on the optical side electrode 303. This layer avoids direct contact between the electrode and the optical layer. This is particularly advantageous if the optical layer is fluid-type (e.g., containing particles). Similarly, a dielectric layer is also disposed on the optical side electrode 301. This coating that avoids fluid contact is not necessary; the optical modulator will also operate under fluid contact, but the dielectric layer extends the lifetime of the optical modulator.

[0164] Therefore, an energy conversion layer is disposed on the first substrate, sandwiched on both sides by electrodes (in this case, substrate-side electrode 305 and optical layer-side electrode 303). Furthermore, an optical layer is disposed between the first and second substrates, also sandwiched on both sides by at least one electrode (here shown optical layer-side electrode 303 and optical layer-side electrode 301). For example, the energy conversion layer can be arranged as an energy conversion stack or layer. Note that electrode 303 is used jointly for energy conversion (e.g., from light to electricity) and for optical modulation. The optical properties of the optical layer are modulated by modulating the electric field in the optical layer (which can utilize optical layer-side electrodes 301 and 303). Light passing through the optical modulator (e.g., from one of the first substrate 307 and the second substrate 308 to the other) can be altered. For example, it may be attenuated to a certain extent, depending on the modulation of the optical layer. The embodiment shown in Figure 6a is a dual-electrode optical modulator. This means that the optical layer has two electrodes that can be controlled (e.g., controlled by an optical modulator driving system). Electrodes 303, 305, and 301 can extend to the edges of the respective substrates for connection. In addition to extending the electrodes themselves, wires can also be arranged in the optical modulator.

[0165] As described above, various optical layers are known to be controllable by electrodes, including controllable by two electrodes. For example, an optical layer may include an electrochromic material whose optical properties can be modulated by modulating a voltage across the optical layer comprising the electrochromic material. For example, an optical layer may be a fluid comprising particles. The position of the particles can be modulated by modulating a voltage difference across the optical layer. For example, the particles may move due to electrophoretic or dielectrophoretic forces. In the former case, the particles are charged or can be charged. The particles and fluid may be so-called electronic ink.

[0166] This article describes other dynamic glass technologies. For example, the optical layer may include LCDs, suspended particle devices (SPDs), or reversible metal electrodeposition.

[0167] In this embodiment, the substrate-side electrode 305 includes a large-area electrode; the optical layer-side electrode 303 includes a large-area electrode; and the energy conversion layer is arranged across the substrate over a large area. In this case, these electrodes and the energy conversion layer are preferably transparent. The large-area energy conversion layer 309 may be selectively transparent or reflective, or at least partially transparent or reflective, for the desired wavelength (e.g., visible light, infrared, ultraviolet light, etc.) modulated by the optical layer 310.

[0168] The energy conversion layer 309 is configured to convert energy outside the substrate between the substrate-side electrode 305 and the voltage difference between the optical layer-side electrode 303 and the substrate-side electrode 305.

[0169] For the energy conversion layer, several options are possible. Interestingly, the electrodes of the optical layer are used as a voltage reference for the energy conversion layer.

[0170] For example, the energy conversion layer may include a photovoltaic stack configured to convert light incident on the substrate into a voltage difference across the substrate-side electrode 305 and the optical layer-side electrode 303. This photovoltaic stack may be a silicon-based photovoltaic stack.

[0171] For example, the energy conversion layer may include a thermoelectric stack configured to convert a thermal difference between two sides of a substrate into a voltage difference. For instance, if a light modulator is used, for example, in a window on a wall, where there is a temperature difference between the two sides of the wall, the light modulator can utilize this temperature gradient and convert it into electricity.

[0172] For example, the energy conversion layer may include a radio frequency (RF) energy harvesting module configured to convert ambient RF radiation into a voltage difference. Ambient RF radiation may include Wi-Fi signals, cell phone signals, and other wireless communication signals. Similar to photovoltaic and thermoelectric stacks, the RF energy harvester may be arranged as a layer between the substrate-side electrode 305 and the optical layer-side electrode 303. For example, a rectifier antenna (also known as a rectenna) may be used, possibly as a mesh rectifier antenna. For example, the rectifier antenna may be sandwiched between electrodes 303 and 305.

[0173] The above-described embodiments of the energy conversion layer all convert external energy into a voltage difference between electrodes 303 and 305. However, alternative approaches are also possible. For example, the energy conversion layer may include one or more LEDs configured to convert the voltage difference between electrodes 303 and 305 into another form of energy, in this case, light. The LEDs may be micro-LEDs or micropatterned OLEDs.

[0174] Having a power conversion layer in an optical modulator is highly efficient because the optical side electrodes can also function as a voltage reference for the power conversion layer. The generated energy can be used, for example, to charge a battery. The generated energy can also be used to power the optical modulator drive system, for example, from a battery. This has the advantage of reducing the power requirements of the optical modulator. However, another advantage of a power conversion layer in an optical modulator is that the optical layer helps dissipate heat, thereby improving the efficiency of the power conversion layer. This is especially helpful if the power conversion layer includes a photovoltaic stack. This effect is even more pronounced if the optical layer includes a fluid (which is typical in a series of optical layers).

[0175] Using the optical layer as a heat sink for the energy conversion layer is particularly effective for photovoltaic stacking. In one embodiment, the dielectric 311 on the first substrate can be a thermally conductive material. The dielectric 311 can be arranged on the optical layer side as shown in FIG. 6a. The dielectric 311 can also be arranged between the substrate 307 and the substrate-side electrode 305. For example, the dielectric 311 can surround the energy conversion layer. The thermally conductive dielectric 311 further reduces the temperature of the energy conversion layer. This is particularly beneficial in the case of photovoltaic stacking, resulting in an increase in the current generated by the system.

[0176] The dielectric layer 311 on top of the optical side electrode 301 on the second substrate 308 may also include a thermally conductive transparent dielectric layer. This electrode can serve as a heat sink for the optical layer, which in turn improves the efficiency of the optical layer as a heat sink for the energy conversion layer 309.

[0177] Thermal connections may be disposed on the dielectric layer 311 on the first substrate 307 and / or the second substrate 308 to allow further heat dissipation from the respective dielectric layer 311. For example, thermal connections may be attached to a frame surrounding the optical modulator.

[0178] For example, the thickness of the dielectric layer can be in the micrometer range, for example, less than 10 μm, preferably less than 1 μm, and more preferably less than 500 nm. With this configuration, the dielectric 311 is preferably transparent or reflective for the wavelengths to be modulated by the optical layer 310. If the layer 311 is reflective on one side of the energy conversion layer 309, then the layer 311 attached to the substrate 308 is preferably transparent, and vice versa.

[0179] Optionally, a layer of transparent, highly conductive material can be applied to the substrate. For example, this layer can be applied between the dielectric 311 and the optical layer side electrode 303. However, the layer can also be applied at different locations, such as between the substrate and the substrate side electrode. For example, the layer can be applied in place of the dielectric 311 and the optical layer side electrode 303. This layer may include, for example, one or more of a synthetic diamond layer and an aluminum nitride layer. Both materials are transparent and have excellent thermal conductivity. Preferably, the thermal conductivity of the layer at room temperature is at least 300 W / (mK), more preferably at least 500 W / (mK).

[0180] The heat sink can be attached to the substrate-side electrode 305 of the optical modulator.

[0181] Optical modulators with energy conversion layers can be used in various ways. In one approach, the energy conversion stack is used in parallel with the driving optical layer. In this case, optical side electrodes 305 and 301 are driven in a conventional manner according to the respective optical layer technology. This may cause the optical side electrode 305 to change the reference voltage of the energy conversion layer 309. To avoid this, the substrate side electrode 303 is biased by an amount equivalent to the voltage change on electrode 303. Therefore, both the energy conversion layer and the optical layer can operate in a conventional manner. Detailed embodiments of a more complex four-electrode scheme are described below with reference to FIG11.

[0182] Another preferred method for using an optical modulator to avoid the biasing step is described with reference to Figure 10a, etc. This method also has the advantage of allowing for the use of separate electrical systems for optical drive and power generation. For example, the optical modulator 321 can be connected to two different electrical systems to manage power generation and optical modulation. Selective connectors (such as relays) can be used to connect or disconnect a shared optical side electrode on the first substrate, which serves both the photovoltaic layer and the optical modulation layer, to selectively connect or disconnect the appropriate system. For example, the power generation system can be connected or disconnected when energy conversion is required (e.g., if light shines on a photovoltaic stack in use), and the optical modulator drive system can be connected or disconnected when optical changes are required (which are incompatible with the energy conversion layer). It has been found that most optical layer changes are actually compatible, so such exceptions are relatively rare.

[0183] Figure 6b schematically illustrates an embodiment of a dual-electrode optical modulator 322. Optical modulator 322 is a variant of optical modulator 321. Like optical modulator 321, the optical layer in this embodiment can be driven by two electrodes. Suitable optical layers that can be driven in a dual-electrode configuration include, for example, electrochromic, SPD, LCD, reversible metal electrodeposition, and some electrophoretic systems. As with optical modulator 321, electrode 303 is located between the power conversion layer and the optical layer. Electrode 303 serves both as a voltage reference for the power conversion layer 309 and as a driving electrode for the optical layer 310.

[0184] Note that the substrate-side electrode 305 and optical-side electrode 303 on the first substrate 307 each include a large-area electrode. However, the power conversion layer 309 is arranged across the substrate with multiple lines. A transparent dielectric material is disposed between the multiple lines of the power conversion layer. The electrodes 303, 305, and 301 are also transparent, for example, including ITO or FTO.

[0185] One advantage of arranging the power conversion layer as a line rather than a large area is that opaque materials can be used for the power conversion layer, such as opaque photovoltaic stacks.

[0186] The same energy conversion layer and optical layer options as those in optical modulator 321 are available in optical modulator 322.

[0187] Figure 7a schematically illustrates an embodiment of a dual-electrode optical modulator 323. Optical modulator 323 is a variant of optical modulator 322. The optical layer in optical modulator 323 can be driven by two electrodes. The difference between optical modulator 322 and optical modulator 323 lies in the substrate-side electrode 305 and the optical layer-side electrode 303.1.

[0188] Similar to the optical modulator 322, the power conversion layer is arranged across the substrate with multiple lines, and a dielectric is disposed between the multiple lines of the power conversion layer. However, instead of large-area electrodes, the electrodes on each side of the power conversion layer are also finger-shaped, for example, arranged as multiple lines. Electrodes 303 and 305 arranged as multiple lines are shown. Therefore, the electrode system is arranged across the substrate with multiple lines, including substrate-side electrodes 305, power conversion layer 309, and optical layer-side electrodes 303. Electrodes arranged in a pattern (e.g., multiple lines) are referred to as patterned. The multiple lines do not need to be straight; they can be curved or branched, for example, as in the embodiments shown in Figures 2a to 2f.

[0189] In this embodiment, the electrode on the other substrate, namely the optical layer side electrode 301, is a large-area electrode. The optical layer side electrode 301 is transparent, for example, comprising ITO or FTO. Electrodes 303 and 305 are not necessarily transparent, but preferably at least one of them is transparent. In one embodiment, electrode 303 and / or electrode 305 is transparent, which improves the clarity of the window; if a photovoltaic stack is used for the power conversion layer 309, this also improves the performance of the power conversion layer.

[0190] Multiple electrode lines in the substrate-side electrodes, power conversion layer, and / or optical layer-side electrodes are aligned when orthogonally projected onto the substrate. This is convenient but not required. For example, the alignment can be partial; for instance, the projections can partially overlap. For example, the power conversion layer can extend beyond the boundaries of the substrate-side electrodes and / or optical layer-side electrodes. In this embodiment, the optical layer side on the second substrate is not arranged with lines, but if it were, it could be aligned with the lines in the optical layer-side electrodes of the first substrate. Again, this is not required but makes the operation of the optical layer more efficient.

[0191] Figure 7b schematically illustrates an embodiment of a dual-electrode optical modulator 324. Optical modulator 324 is a variant of optical modulator 323. The optical layer in optical modulator 324 can be driven by two electrodes. The difference between optical modulator 323 and optical modulator 324 lies in the optical layer-side electrodes.

[0192] The optical layer side electrode comprises two layers: an electrode layer 303.1 arranged with multiple lines across the substrate and a second layer including a large-area electrode 303.1. Layer 303.1 may be the same as the optical layer side electrode 303 in the optical modulator 323.

[0193] For example, the optical layer-side electrode layer 303.2 may include a transparent, large-area electrode. The optical layer-side electrode layer 303.1 may be an opaque electrode. Using a combination of two layers (an opaque, patterned electrode and a large-area transparent electrode) improves the performance of the power conversion layer, particularly for photovoltaic stacks. The photovoltaic stack can be opaque because it is patterned. In one embodiment, the optical layer-side electrode layer 303.1 may be reflective (typically metallic) to further improve the effectiveness of the photovoltaic stack. The patterned reflective electrode layer 303.1 may be aligned with the power conversion layer.

[0194] Figure 7c schematically illustrates an embodiment of a dual-electrode optical modulator 325. Optical modulator 325 is a variant of optical modulator 324. The optical layer in optical modulator 325 can be driven by two electrodes. The difference between optical modulator 325 and optical modulator 324 lies in the optical layer side electrode on the second substrate 308.

[0195] The optical layer side electrodes comprise two layers: an electrode layer 301.1 (arranged as multiple lines across the substrate) and a second layer comprising a large-area electrode 301.2. For example, the patterned electrode layer 301.1 may be opaque (typically metallic), while the large-area electrode 301.2 may be transparent. This arrangement allows for efficient driving of the optical layer, particularly for electrochromic optical layers, by increasing the electron distribution that causes the electrochromic effect of the “iris effect” (as described by reference to US2021 / 0149265 A1 included herein). This is particularly interesting for large-scale devices.

[0196] The substrate-side electrode 305 can be a patterned opaque electrode (typically metal), or it can be a patterned ITO or FTO. The power conversion layer can be patterned.

[0197] The lines in electrode layer 301.1 do not need to be aligned with the lines in optical layer side 303.1.

[0198] Figure 7d schematically illustrates an embodiment of a dual-electrode optical modulator 326. The optical modulator 326 uses the second substrate of the optical modulator 325. The first substrate is similar to that of the optical modulators 322 and 323. The substrate-side electrode 326 comprises a transparent, large-area electrode. The energy conversion layer 309 and the optical layer-side electrode 303 are arranged in a circuit configuration. Typically, these circuits are aligned, or at least partially aligned. Figure 7e schematically illustrates an embodiment of a dual-electrode optical modulator 327. The optical modulator 327 is similar to the optical modulator 326, but in this case, the optical layer-side electrodes are arranged in two layers, as in the optical modulators 324 and 325.

[0199] The first substrate in Figure 7d can be manufactured by the following method: - Provides a transparent substrate (307), - Apply a substrate-side conductive layer to the substrate. - Apply the photovoltaic stacked layer to the substrate. - Apply the optical layer-side conductive layer to the substrate. - A resist layer is patterned on the optical layer side layer, the resist layer including the pattern of the at least one electrode system. - Transfer the resist pattern onto the optical layer side layer, exposing the underlying region where the electrode system will be formed. - Remove exposed conductive layer areas. - Apply a dielectric coating to the substrate.

[0200] Other substrates as shown herein can also be formed by adding other elements to this method. For example, a patterned resist layer can be introduced between the formation of other electrodes. Different patterning can provide multiple electrodes.

[0201] Figure 7e schematically illustrates an embodiment of the dual-electrode optical modulator 327. The optical modulator 327 is similar to the optical modulator 326, but in this case, the optical layer side electrodes are arranged in two layers as in the optical modulators 324 and 325.

[0202] Figure 7f schematically illustrates an embodiment of a dual-electrode optical modulator 328. In the optical modulator 328, the substrate-side electrodes 305 are arranged in multiple lines, as are the power conversion layer 309. The optical layer-side electrodes on the first substrate comprise two layers, for example, as in optical modulators 324, 325, and 327. The optical layer-side electrodes on the second substrate in this embodiment comprise only one layer, but are finger-like, for example, arranged in multiple lines.

[0203] Therefore, in this embodiment, the optical layer can be driven by one opaque patterned electrode (301) and one transparent electrode (303.2). Electrode 301 is a patterned electrode. Electrode 305 is patterned and transparent, such as ITO or FTO. Electrode 303 is a combination of a transparent electrode (e.g., ITO for an optical modulator) and a patterned electrode (for improving the performance of the energy conversion layer, such as including a reflective metal).

[0204] Figure 7g schematically illustrates an embodiment of a dual-electrode optical modulator 329. In the optical modulator 329, a power conversion layer (e.g., a photovoltaic stack) is arranged across a large area of ​​the substrate. Using a large-area power conversion layer improves the efficiency of the power conversion layer. The power conversion layer is transparent.

[0205] A single substrate-side electrode 305 is arranged across the substrate in multiple lines. Electrode 305 may be metal. A single optical layer-side electrode 303 is arranged across the substrate in multiple lines. Finger-shaped optical layer-side electrodes 301 are applied to a second substrate. All electrodes 303, 305, and 301 may be opaque, for example, metal. In one embodiment, electrode 305 is transparent, for example, patterned ITO or FTO.

[0206] Figures 7a to 7g illustrate several variations of dual-electrode optical modulators that utilize different configurations of electrodes, energy conversion layers, and optical layers to achieve improved performance in a variety of applications. These configurations enable the driving of the optical layer and enhance energy conversion, for example, for photovoltaic stacks. These implementations offer flexibility in the selection of transparent or opaque electrodes, patterned or large-area electrodes, and the alignment between the energy conversion layer and the electrodes, allowing for optimization of the optical modulator's performance to meet specific requirements.

[0207] Figure 8a schematically illustrates an embodiment of a three-electrode optical modulator 330. The optical modulator 330 is similar to the two-electrode optical modulator 328 in Figure 7f, except that two interdigitated optical layer side electrodes 301 and 302 are applied on the second substrate. Therefore, there are three electrodes available to drive various electric fields in the optical layer. The large-area electrode layer 303.2 is transparent. The patterned electrodes 301 and 302 can be opaque, for example, made of metal. Preferably, electrode 305 is transparent, for example, patterned ITO or FTO.

[0208] This arrangement is particularly suitable for optical layers of electronic ink type, such as electrophoresis or dielectrophoresis systems, with electrophoresis systems being preferred.

[0209] For example, electrodes 301 and 302 can be connected to an optical modulator drive system. Electrode 303 can be selectively connected to a power generation system or an optical modulator drive system, or both. Electrode 305 is connected to the power generation system. Electrode 303 is shared between the energy conversion layer and the optical layer.

[0210] The optical modulator 729 can also be modified into a three-electrode optical modulator by similarly replacing the single electrode 301 on the second substrate with two interdigitated electrodes.

[0211] Further control over the optical layer can be achieved by increasing the number of electrodes, for example, to three or more optical layer-side electrodes. This can be done on a second substrate, a first substrate, or both. For example, electrode designs of 1-3, 2-3, or 3-3 are possible for the corresponding number of optical layer-side electrodes on the first and second substrates.

[0212] Figure 9a schematically illustrates an embodiment of a four-electrode optical modulator 331. The optical modulator 331 is similar to the optical modulator 329 shown in Figure 7g. The first substrate of the optical modulator 331 has a single finger-shaped substrate-side electrode 305 and two optical layer-side electrodes: electrodes 303 and 304. Electrodes 303 and 304 are interdigitated. The second substrate has two optical layer-side electrodes: electrodes 301 and 302. Electrodes 301 and 302 are also interdigitated. This arrangement is particularly suitable for optical layers of electronic ink type, such as electrophoresis systems or dielectrophoresis systems, preferably electrophoresis systems.

[0213] Electrodes 301, 302, 303, and 304 are patterned and may be opaque. For example, these electrodes may be metal. Electrode 305 may be transparent, such as patterned ITO or FTO. The power conversion layer is of a large area type and is transparent; the power conversion layer may be a photovoltaic stack.

[0214] For example, electrodes 301 and 302 can be connected to an optical modulator drive system. Electrodes 303 and 304 can be selectively connected to a power generation system or an optical modulator drive system, or both. Electrode 305 is connected to a power generation system. Electrode 303 is shared between the energy conversion layer and the optical layer.

[0215] Figure 9b schematically illustrates an embodiment of a four-electrode optical modulator 332. The optical modulator 332 is similar to the optical modulator 323 shown in Figure 7a, except for the electrodes.

[0216] The optical modulator 332 has two interdigitated substrate-side electrodes: electrodes 305 and 306. The optical modulator 332 also has two interdigitated optical layer-side electrodes: electrodes 303 and 304. A power conversion layer is arranged across the substrate with multiple lines, which are at least partially aligned with the substrate-side electrodes and the optical layer-side electrodes. The lines are spaced apart from each other by a dielectric. A second substrate has two interdigitated optical layer-side electrodes: electrodes 301 and 302. Preferably, electrodes 305, 306, 307, and 308 are transparent, like ITO, to receive more light and generate more electricity.

[0217] The optical modulator 332 can be used with a selective connection system that selectively connects or disconnects the shared optical layer side electrodes 303 and 304 to a power generation system or an optical modulator driving system, or both. The substrate layer side electrodes 305 and 306 can be connected to the power generation system.

[0218] One way to use multiple substrate-side electrodes is to support multiple types of energy conversion layers. For example, a first type of energy layer can be present between electrodes 305 and 301, while a second type of energy layer can be present between electrodes 306 and 302. Electrodes 305 and 306 can be connected to separate power generation systems. Each connection to a power generation system can have a blocking diode. Thus, in this embodiment, one or more different types of multiple energy conversion layers are combined with an optical layer. More optical layers can be added, for example, by adding additional substrates. More energy conversion layers can be added on the top substrate, the bottom substrate, or on additional substrates.

[0219] For example, when driven to the off position using a horizontal field, electrodes 303 to 304 are disconnected from the photovoltaic stacking system via relays, and when the light modulator system is turned on, electrodes 303 to 304 are connected to the other side via relays. Diodes are placed at electrodes 305 and 306 to prevent current flow from electrodes with incorrect signs. When additional substrate-side electrodes 314 and 315 are also connected to the photovoltaic stacking system, symmetrical photovoltaic stacking can be obtained on each side.

[0220] Interestingly, the optical modulator 332 can be used without a selective interconnect system. For example, the substrate-side electrodes 305 and 306 can be biased so that the voltage difference across the power conversion layer and the voltage difference across the optical layer are both correct.

[0221] Figure 9c schematically illustrates an embodiment of a four-electrode optical modulator 333. The optical modulator 333 is similar to the optical modulator 332. In this embodiment, the power conversion layer is arranged with multiple lines separated by a dielectric, but these lines extend beyond the boundaries of the electrodes. This improves the efficiency of the power conversion layer. If the power conversion layer is transparent, or more transparent than the electrodes, this does not significantly reduce the transparency of the panel. Extending the power conversion layer lines beyond the electrode boundaries can be applied to other optical modulator designs that use power conversion layer lines.

[0222] In one embodiment of a transparent substrate used for an optical modulator, the electrode system comprises a stack of a pair of substrate-side electrodes and one or more energy conversion layers, followed by optical layer-side electrodes. In one embodiment, the multiple energy conversion layers are of different types. For example, Figure 9d schematically illustrates an embodiment of a four-electrode optical modulator 334. This optical modulator is similar to the optical modulator shown in Figure 9c, except that it uses two energy conversion layers. Layers 309a and 309b are shown. These layers are vertically stacked. Multiple energy conversion layers can also be applied to other optical modulator substrates.

[0223] For example, there could be two different types of conversion layers, such as Type A and Type B, which operate at different wavelengths in the spectrum. For instance, each conversion layer could be a photovoltaic stack, but one photovoltaic stack could operate in the visible spectrum while the other could operate in ultraviolet or infrared light. This stacking would increase the amount of energy extracted / converted into usable electrical energy.

[0224] While the increased complexity of the overall structure is a drawback, the additional energy gained is an advantage. In one implementation, the optical modulator with the stacked power conversion layers is not connected to the grid. For example, this eliminates the need for additional wiring to windows to provide incremental power. This is a significant advantage because additional wiring represents additional installation costs.

[0225] Figure 9e schematically illustrates an embodiment of a four-electrode optical modulator 335. The optical modulator 335 is similar to the optical modulator 332, except that the second substrate is also implemented according to one embodiment. In this case, the electrode design of the second substrate is the same as that of the first substrate.

[0226] For example, the second substrate has two interdigitated substrate-side electrodes: electrodes 314 and 315, and two interdigitated optical layer-side electrodes: electrodes 301 and 302. A power conversion layer is arranged across the substrate between them in multiple lines, which are at least partially aligned with the substrate-side electrodes and the optical layer-side electrodes. The lines are spaced apart from each other by a dielectric.

[0227] For example, in the illustrated embodiment, electrodes 301, 302, 303, and 304 may be patterned opaque electrodes, typically metal. Electrodes 305, 306, 314, and 315 may be patterned ITO. The power conversion layer may be opaque and patterned. The power conversion layer may be a photovoltaic stack.

[0228] However, any design used for the first substrate can also be applied to the second substrate. To drive the panel, a selective connection system can be applied to the common electrodes 301 and 302, or the bias electrodes 314 and 315 can be used.

[0229] In this embodiment, two energy conversion stacks are combined with a single optical modulator. This is highly advantageous for energy conversion stacks made of solid materials and optical layers including liquids (e.g., electronic ink-based optical layers). The two energy conversion stacks can be of the same or different types. For example, it can combine a photovoltaic stack and a micro-LED stack with an electrophoretic optical modulator stack. In the case of an additional micro-LED stack, the electrodes of the micro-LED stack can be configured in rows and columns to obtain addressable images and generate images. For the display, additional local capacitors can be integrated, for example in an active matrix configuration, to improve the performance and stability of the display.

[0230] When two energy conversion stacks are associated with an optical modulator, the two energy conversion stacks will be connected to two separate systems, or to a single system if the two energy conversion stacks are of the same type or compatible.

[0231] Figure 10a schematically illustrates an embodiment of one implementation of the dual-electrode optical modulator system 500.

[0232] Figure 10 illustrates an optical modulator 500, for example, according to any embodiment shown herein. The optical modulator 500 includes a substrate-side electrode 505, an optical layer-side electrode 503, and an optical layer-side electrode 501. The optical modulator 500 may include a power conversion layer between electrodes 505 and 503, and an optical layer between electrodes 503 and 501 (neither shown separately in Figure 10a). Any of electrodes 501, 503, and 505 may be a single electrode or multiple interdigitated electrodes. Electrode 503 is used by both the power conversion layer and the optical layer. A power generation system 410 may be connected to the substrate-side electrode 505. An optical modulator driving system 420 may be connected to the optical layer-side electrode 501. A common electrode 303 is connected to a selective connection system 400.

[0233] In one embodiment, the selective connection system 400 can be configured to connect electrode 503 to both the power generation system and the optical modulator drive system, or only to the optical modulator drive system. The latter can be used when the optical modulator drive system needs to arrange a voltage on electrode 503 that is incompatible with the power generation system, especially for the transverse electric field in the optical modulator.

[0234] In one embodiment, the selective connection system can be configured to connect electrode 503 only to the power generation system.

[0235] In the arrangement shown in Figure 10a, it is assumed that there is only one energy conversion layer. There may be another energy conversion layer between electrode 501 and another substrate-side electrode; in that case, electrode 501 is also connected to a selective connection system. The other substrate-side electrode may be connected to a power generation system.

[0236] The power generation system 410 can charge the battery. For example, the power generation system 410 may include a battery charger configured to regulate the voltage to provide the correct charging voltage to the battery. The charger may further limit the current flowing to the battery to prevent overcharging or overheating, which could damage the battery. To prevent the energy conversion layer from drawing power from the battery, the charger may have a built-in diode to prevent reverse current flow.

[0237] Batteries are optional. The power generation system can discharge electricity back into the grid.

[0238] The power generation system can directly power the devices from the energy conversion layer (particularly the light modulator drive system). For example, the power generation system may include a voltage regulator to ensure a stable and regulated voltage output. The voltage regulator could be a linear voltage regulator or a switching voltage regulator. Optional blocking diodes can be added to prevent power from discharging back to the energy conversion layer (e.g., solar panels) under low light conditions or at night. This diode can be added between the energy converter and the voltage regulator. The light modulator drive system can also, or instead, draw power from batteries charged by the power generation system. Alternatively, the light modulator drive system can also, or instead, draw power from the grid.

[0239] The energy conversion layer can be a photovoltaic stack, such as a silicon-based stack. The optical modulator driving system can be a conventional driving system suitable for the selected optical layer. For example, it can be an electrophoretic driving system.

[0240] Combining power conversion layers (especially photovoltaic stacks) with optical modulators is highly efficient because the electrodes required for the optical modulator can also be used in the power conversion layer. Standard photovoltaic technology can be implemented using patterned power conversion layers (such as photovoltaic stacks), which is highly efficient. The optical modulator can be connected to two electrical systems: one for power generation and one for driving the optical modulator.

[0241] Figure 10b schematically illustrates an embodiment of a dual-electrode optical modulator system, which in this case is based on the optical modulator 321 shown in Figure 6a. Figure 10b illustrates an embodiment of a dual-electrode optical modulator having selective connections for separately managing energy conversion and optical modulation. A power generation system 410 and an optical modulator drive system 420 are also shown. A blocking diode 413 is inserted to prevent discharge from the power generation system 410 to the optical modulator 321.

[0242] The selective connection system may include a set of switches or relays that, depending on the desired operation, can control the set of switches or relays to connect or disconnect the shared optical layer side electrode 303 to different electrical systems. In one configuration, when energy conversion is the primary objective (such as when sunlight shines on a photovoltaic stack integrated into the energy conversion layer 309), the shared electrode 303 is connected to a power generation system. In another configuration, when optical changes incompatible with the energy conversion layer are required, the shared electrode 303 is connected to a light modulator drive system.

[0243] In most cases, optical layer changes and energy conversion can operate simultaneously and without interference, thus eliminating the need for selective connection systems. Therefore, the shared electrode 303 is preferably connected to both electrical systems.

[0244] However, selectively connected systems may be useful, for example, to drive optical layers at higher voltages than are preferable to energy conversion layers.

[0245] Optional selective connection systems include selective connectors: 432 and 433.

[0246] To connect the optical modulator drive system but not the power generation system, connector 432 is disconnected and connector 433 is closed. This mode can be used to drive the optical layer more forcefully.

[0247] To simultaneously connect the optical modulator drive system and the power generation system, connectors 432 and 433 are closed. The latter is the standard configuration. Additional optional connectors, such as connector 431 in Figure 10d, can be added to achieve further separation.

[0248] Figure 10c schematically illustrates an embodiment of a three-electrode optical modulator system, which in this case is based on the optical modulator 330 shown in Figure 8a. Figure 10c illustrates an embodiment of a three-electrode optical modulator having selective connectors for separately managing energy conversion and optical modulation. A three-electrode drive system 421 is used in this embodiment.

[0249] This design is similar to that shown in Figure 10b, except that the optical modulator drive system 421 receives an additional connector to an electrode on the second substrate. This design can be used in electronic ink optical modulators, such as electrophoretic optical modulators and / or dielectric optical modulators.

[0250] Fluids in the optical layer help dissipate heat from the energy conversion layer, thereby improving its performance, especially for photovoltaic stacks.

[0251] Interestingly, electronic inks can include phosphorescent or fluorescent pigments to promote power generation through photovoltaic stacking.

[0252] Depending on the chosen optical modulator technology, the optical modulation drive system can apply an appropriate potential, either direct current or alternating current. It can operate the optical modulator from dark to bright and from bright to dark.

[0253] Similar to Figure 10b, the optical modulator of Figure 10c can operate without selective connectors. An optical selective connection system with two selective connectors 432 and 433 is shown.

[0254] In Figures 10b and 10c, the connection system is optional. A fixed connection can be provided from the optical layer side electrode 303 to both the power generation system and the optical modulator driving system. Having a connection system allows either the power generation system or the optical modulator system to be disabled as needed.

[0255] Figure 10d schematically illustrates an embodiment of a four-electrode optical modulator system. This embodiment uses the optical modulator 331 shown in Figure 9a. A four-electrode optical modulator drive system 422 is used in this embodiment.

[0256] The substrate-side electrode 305 is connected to the power generation system 410; the substrate-side electrode 305 is not connected to the drive system 422. In this embodiment, there is only one substrate-side electrode.

[0257] Two interdigitated optical layer side electrodes, electrodes 303 and 304, are used on the first substrate. Electrodes 303 and 304 are connected to the power generation system 410 as voltage references via selective connectors 432 and 434, respectively. The other ends of selective connectors 432 and 434 are connected to the power generation system 410 via selective connector 431.

[0258] Electrodes 303 and 304 are connected to the optical modulator drive system 422 via selective connectors 433 and 435, respectively.

[0259] Two interdigitated optical layer side electrodes, electrodes 301 and 302, are used on the second substrate. They are also connected to the optical modulator drive system 422.

[0260] Selective connectors can be implemented using, for example, mechanical relays, monostable relays, transistor switches, etc.

[0261] The optical modulator system shown in Figure 10d supports various operating modes.

[0262] Horizontal drive Horizontal driving is a mode that generates a transverse electric field along the substrate. The optical modulator 422 can apply an alternating voltage to the interdigitated electrodes to cause particles in the optical layer to move parallel to the substrate, thereby reducing transparency. Selective connectors 432, 434, and 431 are disconnected; selective connectors 433 and 435 are closed. The power generation system 410 is not operational during horizontal driving. Driving electrodes 304 and 305 are disconnected from ground during horizontal driving.

[0263] Vertical drive Vertical drive is a mode that aligns particles orthogonally to the substrate. Electrodes facing each other on the substrate receive different voltages. Selective connectors 431, 432, and 434 are closed. Selective connectors 433 and 435 are open. This connects electrodes 304 and 303 to ground. The optical modulator drive system controls the voltage on electrodes 301 and 302 to cause the particles in the optical layer to be vertically aligned. The power generation system 410 is powered by the voltage difference generated by the energy conversion layer.

[0264] Maintain grayscale To maintain a specific grayscale, the same connection configuration as the vertical drive can be used. The optical modulator drive system 422 applies zero voltage to electrodes 301 and 302 most of the time, but if a decrease in grayscale occurs due to particle dispersion, electrodes 301 and 302 can be briefly driven. In this case, the power generation system can be operational.

[0265] In all three modes, the drive can use either DC or AC signals. Preferably, AC signals are used.

[0266] The selective connection system 400, such as the selective connectors 431, 432, and 433 in Figures 10a to 10d, can be controlled by a controller (e.g., controller 16). This controller can be associated with an optical modulator drive system.

[0267] Figure 11a schematically illustrates an embodiment of one implementation of the power generation system.

[0268] Figure 11b schematically illustrates an embodiment of one implementation of the power generation system.

[0269] Figures 11a and 11b illustrate two example uses of the energy conversion layer 510 and the power generation system 410. The power generation system 410 obtains energy from the energy conversion layer 510 (e.g., a photovoltaic stack) and converts it into usable energy.

[0270] Figure 11a shows a charger 411 and a battery 412. The charger 411 is configured to charge the battery 412. Excess energy can be delivered to a grid 520, such as a 230V AC grid. A voltage converter 415 is arranged between the battery 412 and the optical modulator drive system 420.

[0271] Charger 411 may be part of system 41. System 510 may include a grid converter to deliver solar energy back to grid 520. Battery 412 and / or voltage converter 421 may be in system 410, in system 420, or neither. The voltage converter allows for changing the input level voltage. System 410 may include a DC converter for external devices such as system 420, and a DC / AC converter for returning energy to the grid.

[0272] Figure 11b is similar, except that no battery is used. System 410 is arranged to convert energy from layer 510 and deliver it to grid 520. The optical modulator is powered using wall socket 414 (e.g., utilizing mains power).

[0273] These implementations exemplify the flexibility and adaptability of optical modulator systems, allowing energy conversion and optical modulation to occur simultaneously or independently as needed. Different configurations and selective connectors offer opportunities for a wide range of applications and uses. The implementations described for two-electrode, three-electrode, and four-electrode optical modulator systems demonstrate a range of possibilities for managing energy conversion and optical modulation. These systems can be used in power-generating windows, smart glass, displays, and other technologies requiring efficient and effective management of energy conversion and optical properties.

[0274] Figure 12 schematically illustrates an embodiment of a control method for a four-electrode optical modulator system. The optical modulator system shown in Figure 12 does not use a selective interconnect system. In this embodiment, the number of substrate-side electrodes on the first substrate is the same as the number of optical layer-side electrodes; in the depicted case, each of these substrates includes two electrodes. This embodiment uses the optical modulator 332 from Figure 9a.

[0275] All electrodes 301-306 are connected to the optical modulator drive system 423. The optical modulator drive system 423 is configured as a bias electrode to allow horizontal drive during operation of the power conversion layer. In this case, power generation (e.g., charging a battery) is performed by the optical modulator drive system 423.

[0276] The electrodes of the light modulator are patterned, and the power conversion layer is also patterned. In one embodiment, the power conversion layer is a photovoltaic stack, which can also be patterned, especially if the photovoltaic stack is not transparent enough. The power conversion layer is assumed to be a photovoltaic stack below, although it can be modified to other things as shown herein.

[0277] When sunlight shines on the first substrate of the device, electrons are generated at electrodes 303, 304, 305, and 306. This creates a potential difference between these electrodes.

[0278] If the light modulator is not running or driven: the generated potential fluctuates according to solar exposure. The generated electricity can be supplied to a battery or grid. The potential between electrodes 1 and 3 can remain zero. Therefore, the light modulator driving system can measure the potential of electrode 303 relative to electrode 301 and adjust the potential applied to electrode 301 to make it the same. This can also be done for electrodes 304 and 302.

[0279] If the light modulator is operating from dark to bright, a vertical field is expected to exist in the optical layer. Electrodes 301, 302 and 303, 304, as well as 305, 306, are expected to be at the same potential. The potential on electrodes 303 and 304 may fluctuate due to solar exposure. The drive system is configured to measure the evolution of the potential and adjust the potential on electrodes 301 and 302 to obtain the desired potential difference in the optical layer. The current generated by the energy conversion layer can discharge to a battery or grid, or directly to the electronic board driving the light modulator.

[0280] If the optical modulator is operating from bright to dark, a horizontal field is expected to exist in the optical layer. The potential difference between electrode pairs 303, 305 and 304, 306 is expected to be the same, but fluctuates depending on solar exposure. The potentials on electrodes 301 and 302, and electrodes 303 and 304, are expected to be different. Since the potential difference between 303, 305 and 304, 306 is expected to be the same, the drive system can be configured to measure the potentials of electrodes 303, 304, 305, and 306, and shift the potentials of electrode pairs 301, 302 and 303, 304 to maintain the same potential difference between 303, 305 and 304, 306, and to achieve the same potential difference between 303, 305 and 301, 302.

[0281] Electrodes 305 and 306 are preferably transparent or partially transparent, for example, if the energy conversion layer is placed only behind the electrodes. When the energy conversion layer is slightly larger than the electrodes, electrodes 305 and 306 do not need to be transparent.

[0282] Consider the following example scenario: Maintaining a black state, energy conversion is in use: The following potentials can be used: electrode 305 = 3V, electrode 306 = 3V.

[0283] Electrodes 301, 302, 303, and 304 are set to 0V to maintain a black state. The 0V level can be any other value, as long as it is equal for all four electrodes. The potential between electrodes 303-305 and 304-306 can vary depending on solar exposure.

[0284] Vertical drive, energy conversion in use Electrodes 303 and 304 can be driven to ground. Electrodes 305 and 306 fluctuate due to sunlight. Electrodes 301 and 302 can be driven to generate an electric field. For example, the following values ​​are possible: electrodes 305 and 306 = 3V, electrodes 303 and 304 = 0V (caused by light), and electrodes 301 and 302 = + / -20V (preferably oscillating).

[0285] Horizontal drive The following values ​​can be used: Electrode 305 = +21V, Electrode 306 = -21V Electrode 303 = +24V, Electrode 304 = -24V Electrode 301 = +24V, Electrode 302 = -24V or Electrode 305 = -21V, Electrode 306 = +21V Electrode 303 = -24V, Electrode 304 = +24V Electrode 301 = -24V, Electrode 302 = +24V Note that the differences between 305, 303 and 306, 304 remain unchanged, but a DC offset is added. Any of these embodiments can be used for DC drive. The system can also use both and alternate between them, possibly continuously.

[0286] Figure 13a schematically illustrates an embodiment of a control method 601 for a four-electrode optical modulator system. Method 601 maintains the optical modulator in a dark state and / or an electric field-free state within the ink.

[0287] This method includes the following elements.

[0288] Solar radiation contacts the substrate and penetrates the panel. - Photovoltaic stack power generation. Electrodes 303 / 305 and 304 / 306 show the potential difference; the drive system directs the generated current from the PV stack to the cells or grid. - Drive system measures the potential of electrodes 303 / 304 - The drive system applies the measured potential of electrodes 303 / 304 to electrodes 301 / 302 to avoid the electric field in the optical layer.

[0289] Figure 13b schematically illustrates an embodiment of a control method 602 for a four-electrode optical modulator system. Method 602 can be used to drive the optical modulator from dark to bright or increase transmittance, or from bright to dark or decrease transmittance.

[0290] Method 602 includes: Solar radiation contacts the substrate and penetrates the equipment. - PV stack power generation. Electrodes 303 / 305 and 304 / 306 show the potential difference. The drive system directs the generated current from the PV stack to the cells or grid. - Initiate modulation to adjust transparency. This can be standard modulation on electrodes 301, 302, 303, and 304.

[0291] - The drive system limits the required potential on all electrodes 301 / 302 / 303 / 304 at time t. - The drive system also measures the actual potential of electrodes 301 / 302, 303 / 304, and 305 / 306. - The drive unit calculates the potential of each electrode. - The drive unit applies the calculated potential of each electrode.

[0292] The last four sections can be repeated until the desired transparency is achieved.

[0293] To increase transparency, the potential can be calculated as follows. The initial potential is denoted as i, and the final potential is denoted as f. Et is the target potential difference. V represents the voltage.

[0294] V305f-V306f = V303f-V304f = V305i-V306i = V303i-V304i Et = V301f-V303f = V302f-V304f To reduce transparency, the electric potential can be calculated as follows.

[0295] V305f-V306f = V303f-V304f = V305i-V306i = V303i-V304i Et = V301f-V302f = V303f-V304f V301f = V303f V302f = V304f One advantage of an implementation with multiple substrate-side electrodes is that energy conversion does not need to be interrupted when reducing transparency.

[0296] The four-electrode optical modulator system described above allows for efficient control of transparency while maintaining energy conversion capabilities. The drive system measures and adjusts the electrode potentials to obtain the required potential difference within the optical layer, enabling the device to operate effectively even when the energy conversion layer generates electricity due to solar exposure. By monitoring and adjusting the electrode potentials, the optical modulator can provide a range of transparency levels while continuously generating power.

[0297] Figure 14 schematically illustrates an embodiment of a control method for optical modulator method 610. Method 610 can be used in an optical modulator including a first substrate according to one embodiment. A second substrate may also be included according to one embodiment, or may only include optical layer side electrodes, etc. Method 610 includes: - Applying a 611 potential to at least one optical layer-side electrode of at least one electrode system to modify the optical properties of the optical modulator, and - Energy is converted 612 into a voltage difference between the substrate-side electrode and the optical layer-side electrode through the energy conversion layer, or energy is converted 612 from the voltage difference between the substrate-side electrode and the optical layer-side electrode.

[0298] For example, an optical modulator can be connected to a power generation system. Method 610 may include selectively connecting and disconnecting the optical layer side electrode from the power generation system. The optical layer side electrode can be disconnected to allow the application of a transverse electric field.

[0299] Many different ways of performing this method are possible, as will be apparent to those skilled in the art. For example, the steps may be performed in the order shown, but the order of the steps may be changed, or some steps may be performed in parallel. Furthermore, other method steps may be inserted between the steps. The inserted steps may represent an improvement on the method described herein, or they may be unrelated to the method. For example, some steps may be performed at least partially in parallel. Moreover, a given step may not be fully completed before the next step begins.

[0300] Implementations of this method can be executed using software that includes instructions for causing a processor system to execute an implementation of method 610. The software may include only those steps taken by a specific sub-entity of the system. The software may be stored on a suitable storage medium, such as a hard disk, floppy disk, memory, optical disk, etc. The software may be transmitted as a signal along a wire, wirelessly, or using a data network (e.g., the Internet). The software may be available for download and / or remotely used on a server. Implementations of this method can be executed using a bitstream arranged to configure programmable logic (e.g., a field-programmable gate array (FPGA)) to execute an implementation of the method.

[0301] It should be understood that the currently disclosed subject matter also extends to computer programs, particularly computer programs on or in a carrier, suitable for putting the currently disclosed subject matter into practice. Programs may take the form of source code, object code, intermediate code between source code and object code (such as partially compiled forms), or any other form suitable for use in the implementation of embodiments of the method. Embodiments relating to computer program products include computer-executable instructions corresponding to each processing step of at least one of the elaborated methods. These instructions may be subdivided into subroutines and / or stored in one or more files that can be statically or dynamically linked. Another embodiment relating to computer program products includes computer-executable instructions corresponding to each device, unit, and / or part of at least one of the elaborated systems and / or products.

[0302] Figure 15a illustrates a computer-readable medium 1000 having a writable portion 1010, and a computer-readable medium 1001 also having a writable portion. The computer-readable medium 1000 is shown in the form of an optically readable medium. The computer-readable medium 1001 is shown in the form of an electronic memory, in this case, a memory card. Both computer-readable media 1000 and 1001 can store data 1020, which can instruct instructions that, when executed by a processor system, cause the processor system to perform an embodiment of a method for an optical modulator according to one embodiment. The computer program 1020 can be implemented on the computer-readable medium 1000 as a physical marker or by magnetization of the computer-readable medium 1000. However, any other suitable embodiment is conceivable. Furthermore, it should be understood that although the computer-readable medium 1000 is shown herein as an optical disc, the computer-readable medium 1000 can be any suitable computer-readable medium, such as a hard disk, solid-state storage, flash memory, etc., and can be non-recordable or recordable. Computer program 1020 includes instructions for causing a processor system to execute an embodiment of the method for an optical modulator.

[0303] Figure 15b schematically illustrates a processor system 1140 according to one embodiment of an optical modulator system. The processor system includes one or more integrated circuits 1110. The architecture of the one or more integrated circuits 1110 is schematically shown in Figure 15b. Circuit 1110 includes a processing unit 1120 (e.g., a CPU) for running computer program components to perform a method according to one embodiment and / or a module or unit implementing it. Circuit 1110 includes a memory 1122 for storing programming code, data, etc. A portion of the memory 1122 may be read-only. Circuit 1110 may include a communication element 1126, such as an antenna, a connector, or both or the like. Circuit 1110 may include an application-specific integrated circuit 1124 for performing some or all of the processing defined in the method. The processor 1120, memory 1122, application-specific IC 1124, and communication element 1126 may be interconnected with each other via an interconnect 1130 (e.g., a bus). The processor system 1110 can be configured for contact communication and / or contactless communication, using an antenna and / or a connector, respectively.

[0304] For example, in one embodiment, the processor system 1140 (e.g., an optical modulator system) may include processor circuitry and memory circuitry, the processor being configured to execute software stored in the memory circuitry. For example, the processor circuitry may be an Intel Core i7 processor, an ARM Cortex-R8, etc. In one embodiment, the processor circuitry may be an ARM Cortex M0. The memory circuitry may be ROM circuitry, or non-volatile memory such as flash memory. Alternatively, the memory circuitry may be volatile memory such as SRAM. In the latter case, the device may include a non-volatile software interface (e.g., a hard disk, a network interface, etc.) configured to provide the software.

[0305] Although system 1140 is shown as including one of the components described herein, various components may be repeated in various embodiments. For example, processing unit 1120 may include multiple microprocessors configured to independently execute the methods described herein, or configured to execute elements or subroutines of the methods described herein, such that multiple processors cooperate to implement the functions described herein. Furthermore, in the case of system 1140 implemented in a cloud computing system, various hardware components may belong to different physical systems. For example, processor 1120 may include a first processor in a first server and a second processor in a second server.

[0306] The following numbered clauses include contemplated embodiments. New claims may be formulated with respect to these clauses and / or combinations thereof and / or features taken from the specification and / or claims, for example, during the examination of this application or any subsequent application derived therefrom.

[0307] Clause 1. A transparent substrate (307) for an optical modulator having an optical layer, the transparent substrate having at least one electrode system (305, 309, 303; 306, 309, 304) applied on the substrate, the electrode system comprising a stack of substrate-side electrodes (305; 306), an energy conversion layer (309), and optical layer-side electrodes (303; 304), the optical layer-side electrodes being arranged to modulate an electric field in the optical layer, the energy conversion layer (309) being configured to convert energy outside the substrate between the substrate-side electrodes (305; 306) and the voltage difference between the optical layer-side electrodes (303; 304).

[0308] Clause 2. The substrate according to Clause 1, wherein the energy conversion layer (309) comprises one or more of the following: - A photovoltaic stack configured to convert light incident on the substrate into a voltage difference. - A thermoelectric stack configured to convert the thermal difference between the two sides of the substrate into the voltage difference. - Radio frequency energy harvesting layer, - LED, which is configured to convert the voltage difference into light.

[0309] Clause 3. The substrate according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the optical layer side electrode is arranged as a voltage reference for the energy conversion layer.

[0310] Clause 4. The substrate according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the substrate-side electrode (305) and / or the optical layer-side electrode (303) comprises a large-area electrode.

[0311] Clause 5. The substrate according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the power conversion layer is arranged across the substrate in the form of multiple lines, and a dielectric is disposed between the multiple lines of the power conversion layer.

[0312] Clause 6. The substrate according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the power conversion layer is arranged across the substrate over a large area.

[0313] Clause 7. The substrate according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein the electrode system is arranged across the substrate in the form of multiple lines, and the substrate-side electrodes and the optical layer-side electrodes are arranged in the form of multiple electrode lines.

[0314] Clause 8. The substrate according to Clause 7, wherein the at least one electrode system includes a first electrode system (305, 309, 303) and a second electrode system (306, 309, 304), wherein multiple lines of the first electrode system and multiple lines of the second electrode system are interdigitated, and a dielectric is applied between the interdigitated lines of the first electrode system and the second electrode system to electrically isolate the substrate-side electrode and optical layer-side electrode of the first electrode system from the substrate-side electrode and optical layer-side electrode of the second electrode system.

[0315] Clause 9. The substrate according to Clause 8 or any of the preceding clauses, wherein a plurality of electrode lines in the substrate-side electrodes of the at least one electrode system and a plurality of electrode lines in the optical layer-side electrodes of the at least one electrode system are aligned when orthogonally projected onto the substrate.

[0316] Clause 10. The substrate pursuant to the combination of Clauses 5 and 9 and any one of the foregoing clauses, wherein - The energy conversion layer of the at least one electrode system is aligned with multiple electrode lines in the substrate-side electrode and the optical layer-side electrode when orthogonally projected onto the substrate, or - The energy conversion layer of the at least one electrode system extends beyond the boundary of the alignment of multiple electrode lines in the substrate-side electrode and the optical layer-side electrode when orthogonally projected onto the substrate.

[0317] Clause 11. The substrate according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein - The substrate-side electrode, the optical layer-side electrode, and the energy conversion layer are transparent. - The substrate-side electrodes and the optical layer-side electrodes are transparent, and the energy conversion layer is arranged across the substrate in a pattern that spans the substrate, thereby covering most of the substrate. - The substrate-side electrode and / or the optical layer-side electrode comprise two layers: a transparent large-area electrode and a patterned non-transparent electrode. - The optical layer side electrode includes a transparent large-area electrode and a patterned reflective electrode aligned with the energy conversion layer.

[0318] Clause 12. The substrate according to any one of the preceding clauses includes a plurality of power conversion layers.

[0319] Clause 13. The transparent substrate according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein a highly conductive material is applied to the substrate.

[0320] Clause 14. An optical modulator comprising a first substrate according to any one of Clauses 1-13 and a second substrate disposed opposite to the first substrate, an optical layer extending between the first substrate and the second substrate; at least one optical layer-side electrode is applied to the second substrate, and optical properties of the optical modulator can be modified by applying a potential to at least one optical layer-side electrode of the at least one electrode system. - Energy is converted into a voltage difference between the substrate-side electrode and the optical layer-side electrode through the energy conversion layer, or energy is converted from the voltage difference between the substrate-side electrode and the optical layer-side electrode.

[0321] Clause 15. The optical modulator as described in Clause 14, including the optical modulator driving system and - An optical modulator driving system configured to control the potential on the optical layer side electrodes of the first substrate and / or the second substrate, and - A power generation system configured to generate current from at least an energy conversion layer on the first substrate, wherein - The optical layer side electrode on the first substrate is selectively connected to the power generation system.

[0322] Clause 16. The optical modulator according to any one of the preceding optical modulator clauses, wherein the optical layer side electrode on the first substrate is connected to the power generation system via a first selective connector and to the optical modulator driving system via a second selective connector, the first selective connector and the second selective connector being controlled to selectively connect the optical layer side electrode to the optical modulator driving system or the power generation system.

[0323] Clause 17. The optical modulator according to any one of the preceding optical modulator clauses, wherein... - The electrodes are arranged across the second substrate in the form of multiple electrode lines, or - The second substrate is a substrate according to any one of clauses 1-13, and wherein the optical properties of the optical modulator can be further modified by applying a potential to the optical layer side electrode of the second substrate.

[0324] Clause 18. The optical modulator according to any one of the preceding optical modulator clauses, wherein the optical layer comprises a fluid, the fluid comprises particles, and the optical modulator is configured to apply a potential to an optical layer-side electrode of the at least one electrode system, thereby causing modulation of the electric field in the optical layer, providing electrophoretic and / or dielectrophoretic motion of the particles in the optical layer, thereby causing modulation of light passing through the substrate.

[0325] Clause 19. The electrophoretic optical modulator according to any one of the preceding optical modulator clauses, wherein the particles are charged or capable of being charged, at least a first electrode system and a second electrode system are applied on the first substrate, and multiple lines of the first electrode system and the second electrode system alternate on the first substrate, and at least a first optical layer side electrode and a second optical layer side electrode are applied on the second substrate, and multiple lines of the first optical layer side electrode and the second optical layer side electrode alternate on the second substrate.

[0326] Clause 20. The optical modulator according to Clause 19, wherein the optical modulator driving system is configured to control the potential on the optical layer side electrodes of the second substrate and the optical layer side electrodes in the electrode system on the first substrate to obtain an electromagnetic field between the plurality of optical layer side electrodes, thereby providing electrophoretic motion of particles toward or away from one of the plurality of optical layer side electrodes, thereby causing modulation of the optical properties of the optical modulator.

[0327] Clause 21. The electrophoretic optical modulator according to any one of the preceding optical modulator clauses, wherein the optical modulator driving system is configured to control the potential as an alternating current or voltage.

[0328] Clause 22. The electrophoretic optical modulator according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein - The optical modulator driving system is configured to keep the optical modulator in a non-transparent state by controlling the potentials on the first optical layer side electrode on the second substrate and the second optical layer side electrode on the second substrate to be equal to the potentials on the optical layer side electrodes of the first electrode system and the second electrode system.

[0329] Clause 23. The electrophoretic optical modulator according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein - The optical modulator driving system is configured to change the optical modulator from a less opaque state to a more transparent state by controlling the first optical layer side electrode and the second optical layer side electrode on the second substrate to have different potentials than the opposite optical layer side electrode on the first substrate.

[0330] Clause 24. The electrophoretic light modulator according to any one of the preceding clauses, wherein - The optical modulator driving system is configured to change the optical modulator from a more transparent state to a less transparent state by controlling the potentials on the substrate-side electrode and the optical layer-side electrode in the first electrode system to be offset in a first direction, and by controlling the potentials on the substrate-side electrode and the optical layer-side electrode in the second electrode system to be offset in a second direction opposite to the first direction, and by controlling the potentials on the first optical layer-side electrode and the second optical layer-side electrode on the second substrate to be equal to the potentials on the opposite optical layer-side electrode on the first substrate.

[0331] Clause 25. The optical modulator according to any one of the preceding clauses, including - One or more energy conversion layers of different types and an optical layer, or - One energy conversion layer and multiple optical layers, or - One or more energy conversion layers of different types, and multiple optical layers.

[0332] Clause 26. A method for an optical modulator for an optical modulator, the optical modulator comprising a first substrate according to any one of Clauses 1-13 and a second substrate disposed opposite to the first substrate, an optical layer extending between the first substrate and the second substrate, at least one optical layer-side electrode being applied to the second substrate, the method comprising applying a potential to at least one optical layer-side electrode of the at least one electrode system to modify optical properties of the modulator, and converting energy into a voltage difference between the substrate-side electrode and the optical layer-side electrode or from the voltage difference between the substrate-side electrode and the optical layer-side electrode via the energy conversion layer.

[0333] Clause 27. A system comprising: one or more processors; and one or more storage devices storing instructions that, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to perform operations as described in Clause 26.

[0334] Clause 28. A non-transitory computer storage medium encoded with instructions that, when executed by one or more computers, cause the one or more computers to perform the operations described in Clause 26.

[0335] Clause 29. A method of manufacturing a substrate as described in any of the preceding clauses, comprising: - Provides transparent substrates, - Apply a substrate-side conductive layer to the substrate. - Apply the photovoltaic stacked layer to the substrate. - Apply the conductive layer of the optical layer side layer to the substrate. - Apply a dielectric coating to the substrate.

[0336] It should be noted that the embodiments mentioned above are illustrative and not limiting of the subject matter of this disclosure, and those skilled in the art will be able to devise many alternative embodiments.

[0337] In the claims, any reference numerals enclosed in parentheses shall not be construed as limiting the claims. The use of the verb “comprising” and its variations does not exclude the presence of elements or steps other than those recited in the claims. The article “a” or “an” preceding an element does not exclude the presence of a plurality of such elements. When an expression such as “at least one” precedes a list of elements, it indicates the selection of all elements or any subset thereof from the list. For example, the expression “at least one of A, B, and C” should be understood to include only A, only B, only C, both A and B, both A and C, both B and C, or all of A, B, and C. The subject matter of this disclosure can be implemented by hardware comprising several different elements, as well as by a suitably programmed computer. In device claims enumerating several parts, several of these parts can be implemented by the same item of hardware. The mere fact that certain measures are recited in mutually different dependent claims does not indicate that a combination of these measures cannot be used to exert an advantage.

[0338] In the claims, the marks enclosed in parentheses refer to reference symbols in the figures of exemplary embodiments or formulas of embodiments, thereby improving the comprehensibility of the claims. These marks should not be construed as limiting the claims.

Claims

1. A transparent substrate (307) for an optical modulator having an optical layer, the transparent substrate having at least one electrode system (305, 309, 303; 306, 309, 304) applied on the substrate, the electrode system comprising a stack of a substrate-side electrode (305; 306), an energy conversion layer (309) and an optical layer-side electrode (303; 304), the optical layer-side electrode being arranged to modulate an electric field in the optical layer, the energy conversion layer (309) being configured to convert between energy external to the substrate and a voltage difference between the substrate-side electrode (305; 306) and the optical layer-side electrode (303; 304), - wherein the electrode system is arranged in a plurality of lines across the substrate, the substrate-side electrode and the optical layer-side electrode being arranged in a plurality of electrode lines, - wherein the plurality of electrode lines in the substrate-side electrode of the at least one electrode system and the plurality of electrode lines in the optical layer-side electrode of the at least one electrode system are aligned when orthogonally projected onto the substrate, - wherein the energy conversion layer is arranged in a plurality of lines across the substrate, a dielectric being arranged between the plurality of lines of the energy conversion layer; - the energy conversion layer of the at least one electrode system extending beyond the boundaries of the plurality of electrode lines in the substrate-side electrode and beyond the boundaries of the optical layer-side electrode when orthogonally projected onto the substrate.

2. The substrate according to claim 1, wherein the energy conversion layer (309) comprises one or more of: - a photovoltaic stack configured to convert light incident on the substrate into a voltage difference, - a thermoelectric stack configured to convert a heat difference between the two sides of the substrate into the voltage difference, - a radio frequency energy harvesting layer, - an LED configured to convert the voltage difference into light.

3. The substrate according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the optical layer-side electrode is arranged as a voltage reference for the energy conversion layer.

4. The substrate according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the substrate-side electrode (305) and / or the optical layer-side electrode (303) comprises a large-area electrode.

5. The substrate according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one electrode system comprises a first electrode system (305, 309, 303) and a second electrode system (306, 309, 304), the plurality of lines of the first electrode system being interdigitated with the plurality of lines of the second electrode system, a dielectric being applied between the interdigitated lines of the first electrode system and the second electrode system, thereby electrically isolating the substrate-side electrode and the optical layer-side electrode of the first electrode system from the substrate-side electrode and the optical layer-side electrode of the second electrode system.

6. The substrate according to any of the preceding claims, wherein - the substrate-side electrode, the optical layer-side electrode and the energy conversion layer are transparent, and / or - the substrate side electrode, the optical layer side electrode are transparent, the energy conversion layer is arranged across the substrate in a pattern across the substrate, thereby covering a substantial part of the substrate, and / or - the substrate side electrode, and / or the optical layer side electrode comprises two layers: a transparent large area electrode and a patterned non-transparent electrode, and / or - the optical layer side electrode comprises a transparent large area electrode and a patterned reflective electrode aligned with the energy conversion layer.

7. The substrate according to any of the preceding claims, comprising a plurality of energy conversion layers.

8. The transparent substrate according to any of the preceding claims, wherein a high electrical conductivity material is applied to the substrate.

9. An optical modulator comprising: A first substrate according to any of claims 1-8 and a second substrate arranged opposite the first substrate, and an optical layer extending between the first substrate and the second substrate; at least one optical layer side electrode is applied on the second substrate, by applying an electrical potential to at least the optical layer side electrode of the at least one electrode system, the optical properties of the light modulator can be modified; - energy is converted by the energy conversion layer to, or from, a voltage difference between the substrate side electrode and the optical layer side electrode.

10. The light modulator according to claim 9, comprising a light modulator drive system and - a light modulator drive system configured to control the electrical potential on the optical layer side electrode of the first substrate and / or the second substrate, and - a power generation system configured to generate an electrical current from the energy conversion layer on at least the first substrate, wherein - the optical layer side electrode on the first substrate is selectively connected to the power generation system.

11. The light modulator according to any of the preceding light modulator claims, wherein the optical layer side electrode on the first substrate is connected to the power generation system through a first selective connection and to the light modulator drive system through a second selective connection, the first and second selective connections being controlled to selectively connect the optical layer side electrode to the light modulator drive system or the power generation system.

12. The light modulator according to any of the preceding light modulator claims, wherein - the electrodes are arranged across the second substrate in a plurality of electrode lines, or - the second substrate is a substrate according to any of claims 1-8, and wherein by applying an electrical potential to the optical layer side electrode of the second substrate, the optical properties of the light modulator can be further modified.

13. The light modulator according to any of the preceding light modulator claims, the optical layer comprising a fluid, the fluid comprising particles, the light modulator being configured to apply an electrical potential to the optical layer side electrode of the at least one electrode system, thereby causing a modulation of the electric field in the optical layer, providing an electrophoretic and / or dielectrophoretic movement of the particles in the optical layer, thereby causing a modulation of the light passing through the substrate.

14. Electrophoretic light modulator according to any of the preceding light modulator claims, the particles being charged or chargeable, at least a first electrode system and a second electrode system being applied on the first substrate, the lines of the first electrode system and the second electrode system alternating on the first substrate, at least a first optical layer side electrode and a second optical layer side electrode being applied on the second substrate, the lines of the first optical layer side electrode and the second optical layer side electrode alternating on the second substrate.

15. Light modulator according to claim 14, the light modulator drive system being configured to control the electric potential on the optical layer side electrodes of the second substrate and the optical layer side electrodes of the electrode system on the first substrate to obtain electromagnetic fields between the plurality of optical layer side electrodes to provide electrophoretic movement of the particles towards or away from one of the plurality of optical layer side electrodes to cause modulation of the optical properties of the light modulator.

16. Light modulator according to any of the preceding light modulator claims, the light modulator drive system being configured to control the electric potential as an alternating current or voltage.

17. Electrophoretic light modulator according to any of the preceding claims, wherein - the light modulator drive system is configured to keep the light modulator in a non-transparent state by controlling the electric potential on the first optical layer side electrode on the second substrate and the second optical layer side electrode on the second substrate to be equal to the electric potential on the optical layer side electrodes of the first electrode system and the second electrode system.

18. Electrophoretic light modulator according to any of the preceding claims, wherein - the light modulator drive system is configured to transition the light modulator from a more non-transparent state to a more transparent state by controlling the first optical layer side electrode and the second optical layer side electrode on the second substrate to have different electric potentials than the opposite optical layer side electrodes on the first substrate.

19. Electrophoretic light modulator according to any of the preceding claims, wherein - the light modulator drive system is configured to transition the light modulator from a more transparent state to a more non-transparent state by controlling the electric potential on the substrate side electrodes and the optical layer side electrodes in the first electrode system to be offset in a first direction and by controlling the electric potential on the substrate side electrodes and the optical layer side electrodes in the second electrode system to be offset in a second direction opposite to the first direction, and by controlling the electric potential on the first optical layer side electrode and the second optical layer side electrode on the second substrate to be equal to the electric potential on the opposite optical layer side electrodes on the first substrate.

20. Light modulator according to any of the preceding claims, comprising - one or more multiple energy conversion layers of different types and one optical layer, or - one energy conversion layer and multiple optical layers, or - one or more multiple energy conversion layers of different types and multiple optical layers.

21. An optical modulator method for an optical modulator comprising a first substrate according to any of claims 1-8, a second substrate arranged opposite the first substrate, and an optical layer extending between the first and second substrates, at least one optical layer side electrode applied on the second substrate, the method comprising applying an electric potential to at least the optical layer side electrode of the at least one electrode system, thereby modifying an optical property of the optical modulator, and converting energy through the energy conversion layer to or from a voltage difference between the substrate side electrode and the optical layer side electrode.

22. A system comprising: one or more processors; and one or more storage devices storing instructions that, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to perform operations of the method of claim 21.

23. A non-transitory computer storage medium encoded with instructions that, when executed by one or more computers, cause the one or more computers to perform the operations of claim 21.

24. A method of manufacturing a substrate as claimed in any of the preceding claims, comprising - providing a transparent substrate, - applying a substrate side electrically conductive layer to the substrate, - applying a photovoltaic stack to the substrate, - applying an optical layer side electrically conductive layer to the substrate, - applying a dielectric coating to the substrate.

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