Systems and methods for controlling electrochromic devices using integrated power source

Abstract

An electrochromic device comprising: an active electrochromic layer having optical properties that vary based on an electrical voltage applied to the active electrochromic layer; an integrated energy source integrated within the electrochromic device for generating or storing electrical energy; and a controller operatively coupled to the energy source and the active electrochromic layer for applying the electrical energy generated or stored by the integrated energy source to the active electrochromic layer to achieve the optical properties desired by a user. The described electrochromic device is entirely self-contained and internally produces all the electrical energy necessary for its operation and specifically for the operation of the controller and for controlling the optical properties of the electrochromic layer. In other words, there no external wiring or any kind is required for supplying electric energy to the electrochromic device.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED PATENT APPLICATION[0001]The present regular U.S. patent application relies upon, claims the benefit of priority from, and is a non-provisional of U.S. provisional patent applications No. 62 / 025,004 filed on Jul. 15, 2014, and No. 62 / 115,289 filed on Feb. 12, 2015, the entire disclosure of both of which is incorporated by reference herein.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]1. Field of the Invention[0003]The disclosed embodiments relate in general to the field of industrial application of devices with electrically controlled optical properties (e.g. electrochromic devices) and, more specifically, to electrochromic devices with integrated electrical power sources.[0004]2. Description of the Related Art[0005]Electrochromism is the physical phenomenon found in certain compositions of reversibly changing predetermined optical properties such as color or light transmittance with an application of an electrical voltage called a control voltage. Electrochromism provi...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

This patent describes an electrochromic device that can change its optical properties based on an electrical voltage. The device includes an active electrochromic layer and an integrated energy source within it that can store and generate electrical energy. A controller is used to apply the energy generated by the integrated source to the electrochromic layer, resulting in the desired optical properties. The technical effect of this invention is to provide a device that can adjust its optical properties through an electrical voltage, making it useful in various applications such as displays and smart windows.

Problems solved by technology

This makes some applications of the electrochromic devices inelegant, difficult or even outright impossible as the building's electrical power outlet or other electrical connection may not be appropriately located or not available altogether.

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