Electro-optical device with series electro-optical elements

Abstract

An electro-optical device includes a first electro-optical element and a second electro-optical element in series with the first electro-optical element via a common node that conductively connects the first electro-optical element to the second electro-optical element. The power circuitry includes a first node and a second node. A first node connects the power circuitry to the first electro-optical element and a second node connects the power circuitry to the second electro-optical element.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to electro - optical elements, and more particularly to electro - optical devices having series - connected electro - optical elements. Summary of the Utility Model

[0002] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, an electro - optical device includes a first electro - optical element. A second electro - optical element is connected in series with the first electro - optical element via a first common electrode, which is common to the first electro - optical element and the second electro - optical element. A power supply circuit system includes a first node and a second node. The first node connects the power supply circuit system to the first electro - optical element. The second node connects the power supply circuit system to the second electro - optical element.

[0003] Those skilled in the art will further understand and appreciate these and other features, advantages, and objectives of the device by studying the following specification, claims, and drawings. Brief Description of the Drawings

[0004] The present utility model will now be described with reference to the following drawings, in which:

[0005] Figure 1A is a top plan view of an automobile including a plurality of electro - optical devices according to one aspect of the present disclosure;

[0006] Figure 1B is a side perspective view of an aircraft including a plurality of electro - optical devices according to one aspect of the present disclosure;

[0007] Figure 1C is a front perspective view of a building including a plurality of electro - optical devices according to one aspect of the present disclosure;

[0008] Figure 1D is a partial perspective view of the interior of an aircraft including a plurality of electro - optical devices according to one aspect of the present disclosure;

[0009] Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view of an electro - optical device according to one aspect of the present disclosure;

[0010] Figure 3 is a side cross - sectional view of an electro - optical device according to one aspect of the present disclosure;

[0011] Figure 4 is a circuit diagram of an electro - optical device according to one aspect of the present disclosure;

[0012] Figure 5 is a side cross - sectional view of an electro - optical device according to one aspect of the present disclosure;

[0013] Figure 6 is a circuit diagram of an electro - optical device according to one aspect of the present disclosure;

[0014] Figure 7 is a circuit diagram of an electro-optical device according to an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0015] Figure 8 is a circuit diagram of an electro-optical device according to an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0016] Figure 9 is a circuit diagram of an electro-optical device according to an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0017] Figure 10 is a circuit diagram of an electro-optical device according to an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0018] Figure 11 is a circuit diagram of an electro-optical device according to an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0019] Figure 12 is a circuit diagram of an electro-optical device according to an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0020] Figure 13 is an exploded perspective view of an electro-optical device according to an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0021] Figure 14 is a side cross-sectional view of an electro-optical device according to an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0022] Figure 15 is an exploded perspective view of an electro-optical device according to an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0023] Figure 16 is a circuit diagram of an electro-optical device according to an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0024] Figure 17 is a drawing of the potential distribution along the length of an electro-optical element according to an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0025] Figure 18 is an exploded perspective view of an electro-optical device with the substrate omitted according to an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0026] Figure 19 is a circuit diagram of an electro-optical device according to an aspect of the present disclosure;

[0027] Figure 20 is a drawing of the potential distribution along the length of an electro-optical element according to an aspect of the present disclosure; and

[0028] Figure 21 is a side cross-sectional view of an electro-optical device according to an aspect of the present disclosure. Detailed Description

[0029] For the purposes of the description herein, the terms "upper", "lower", "right", "left", "rear", "front", "vertical", "horizontal", and derivatives thereof will relate to the orientation of the present utility model in Figure 2 the orientation shown. However, it should be understood that the present utility model may adopt various alternative orientations, unless the opposite direction is explicitly specified. It should also be understood that the specific devices and processes shown in the drawings and described in the following specification are merely exemplary embodiments of the concepts of the present utility model as defined in the appended claims. Therefore, unless the claims state otherwise explicitly, the specific dimensions and other physical characteristics related to the embodiments disclosed herein should not be considered restrictive.

[0030] The term "comprising", "including", or any other variation thereof is intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a series of elements includes not only those elements but also other elements that are not explicitly listed or are not inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus. Without further limitation, an element preceded by "comprising..." does not exclude the presence of additional identical elements in the process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises the element.

[0031] Figures 1A - 1D A specific embodiment of the electro-optical device 10 incorporated into a structure such as vehicles 11, 12 or a building 13 is shown. In some embodiments, as Figure 1A shown, the vehicles 11, 12 are automobiles 11, which include one or more electro-optical devices 10 in the form of windows 14, instrument panels 15, exterior rearview mirrors 16, and / or interior rearview mirrors 18. The instrument panel 15 may be a panel, such as an operator panel, which can be selectively hidden by controlling the opacity of the electro-optical device 10. Figure 1B Another specific embodiment of the electro-optical device 10 is shown. In this embodiment, the vehicles 11, 12 are aircraft 12, which include one or more electro-optical devices 10 in the form of windows 14. Figure 1C Yet another specific embodiment of the electro-optical device 10 is shown. In this embodiment, the building 13 may include one or more electro-optical devices 10 in the form of windows 14. Although described with reference to specific examples, the electro-optical device 10 disclosed herein may be incorporated into various other vehicles, such as recreational vehicles, boats, trailers, trains, spacecraft, gondola lifts, cable cars, etc.

[0032] The window 14 may be a device configured to provide a physical barrier between two regions (e.g., interior and exterior), and may be operable to allow variable transmission of light between the two regions. The window 14 may adopt various configurations. For example, the window 14 may be in the form of an architectural window, a vehicle windshield, a vehicle side window, a vehicle rear window, a skylight, an instrument panel, a partition, a mirror, a switchable hidden panel, a switchable partition, etc.

[0033] The exterior rearview mirror 16 can be a device attached to the exterior of the vehicle, configured to provide a field of view to an observer that includes the exterior, rear, or side of the vehicle 11. Additionally, the interior rearview mirror 18 can also be variably transmissive to minimize glare. The interior rearview mirror 18 can be a device within the vehicle interior, configured to provide a field of view that includes the exterior rear of the vehicle 11. Additionally, the interior rearview mirror 18 can also be variably transmissive to minimize glare.

[0034] Now referring to Figure 1D , the interior of the aircraft 12 is shown, which incorporates the electro-optic device 10 into the window 14, as well as into the partition 19 and the compartment mirror 20. In this example, the window 14 is operable to selectively dim in response to light exposure and the like. Similarly, the compartment mirror 20 can be operable to provide a selective or variable level of reflectivity and / or transmissivity. The partition 19 can divide the interior into compartments and is controlled to become clear or darken or change opacity.

[0035] Referring to Figures 2 - 4 , the electro-optic device 10 includes at least one electro-optic element 22, 24 disposed between a first substrate 26 and a second substrate 28. For example, the at least one electro-optic element 22, 24 can include a first electro-optic element 22 disposed adjacent to a second electro-optic element 24, where each electro-optic element 22, 24 is sandwiched between the first substrate 26 and the second substrate 28 or positioned between the first substrate and the second substrate.

[0036] The first substrate 26 has a first surface 30 and a second surface 31 opposite the first surface 30. The second substrate 28 has a third surface 32 and a fourth surface 33. The fourth surface 33 is opposite the third surface 32. The second surface 31 faces the third surface 32. Electrodes 34, 36, 38 are disposed adjacent to the second surface 31 and / or the third surface 32. In the example shown, the at least one electrode 34, 36, 38 includes a first electrode 34 disposed on the second surface 31 of the first substrate 26 and a second electrode 36 disposed on the second surface 31 of the first substrate 26. The at least one electrode 34, 36, 38 further includes a common electrode 38, which is disposed on the third surface 32 and spaced apart from the first electrode 34 and the second electrode 36. As will be described with reference to the previous figures, the arrangement of the three electrodes 34, 36, 38 can be repeated along the first substrate 26 and the second substrate 28 to accommodate multiple common electrodes 38 disposed on each substrate 26, 28.

[0037] More specifically referring to Figure 3, the first electrode 34 and the second electrode 36 can be spaced apart from the common electrode 38 to define at least one cavity 40, 42 therebetween. For example, at least one cavity 40, 42 can include a first cavity 40 disposed between the first electrode 34 and the common electrode 38. At least one cavity 40, 42 can also include a second cavity 42 disposed between the second electrode 36 and the common electrode 38. The first cavity 40 and the second cavity 42 can be electrically isolated from each other by at least one barrier 44, 46 disposed between the first electrode 34 and the second electrode 36. At least one barrier 44, 46 can also extend from the intermediate electrode 38 to each of the first electrode 34 and the second electrode 36. At least one barrier 44, 46 can include an end barrier 44 and an intermediate barrier 46, where the intermediate barrier 46 separates the first cavity 40 from the second cavity 42. The intermediate barrier, such as 46, is positioned such that the electrodes 34 and 36 do not contact the same fluid.

[0038] An electro-optical fluid or medium can be disposed in each of the first cavity 40 and the second cavity 42. For example, a first electro-optical segment 48 is formed by the first cavity 40, and a second electro-optical segment 50 is formed by the second cavity 42. The electro-optical fluid can be an electrochromic fluid containing one or more solvents, an anode material, and / or a cathode material. In this case, the anode material and the cathode material can be electroactive. For example, the first electro-optical segment 48 and the second electro-optical segment 50 can include an electrochromic medium or substance, the color or transmittance of which can change when a potential is applied across each of the segments 48, 50. The intermediate barrier 46 between the first cavity 40 and the second cavity 42 can be used to electrically isolate the first electro-optical segment 48 from the second electro-optical segment 50. The intermediate barrier 46 can also be used to physically isolate the first electro-optical segment 48 and the second electro-optical segment 50 and provide structural stability to the electro-optical device 10. The plurality of barriers 44, 46 can be formed of epoxy resin and can be non-conductive. In addition, at least one of the electrodes 34, 36, 38 can include a conductive substantially transparent material, such as indium tin oxide (ITO) or another transparent conductive oxide. At least one of the electrodes 34, 36, 38 can be surface-mounted to the inner surfaces of the first substrate 26 and the second substrate 28. It is generally contemplated that any form of ITO or another transparent conductive material can be employed.

[0039] As Figure 2 and 3As shown, the first electrode 34 may be spaced apart from the second electrode 36 to define a gap 52 therebetween. The gap 52 may be used to electrically isolate the first electrode 34 from the second electrode 36 and may correspond to the position of the intermediate barrier 46. It is generally contemplated that the first electro-optic element 22 may be formed by the first electrode 34, the first electro-optic segment 48, and the common electrode 38, and the second electro-optic element 24 may be formed between the common electrode 38, the second electro-optic segment 50, and the second electrode 36. The term electro-optic element may be used herein primarily to refer to the electrical characterization of the illustrated physical structure and is not intended to be limited to any particular portion of at least one of the electrodes 34, 36, 38 or the electro-optic segments 48, 50. It is also contemplated that one or more of the electro-optic elements 22, 24 may include an electrochromic unit.

[0040] Continuing to refer to Figure 2 and 3 FIGS. 1A and 1B, it is generally contemplated that the electro-optic device 10 may extend between a first end 54 and a second end 56 that is opposite the first end 54. The electro-optic elements 22, 24 may also be formed in a linear array along the length L of the electro-optic device 10. More specifically, the electro-optic elements 22, 24 may be distributed one after another along the length L. More specifically referring to Figure 2 FIG. 1C, the electro-optic device 10 may include edges 58, 60 that extend between the first end 54 and the second end 56 to form a generally planar shape of the electro-optic device 10. As shown, a first bus 62 may be provided at the first end 54 of the electro-optic device 10, and a second bus 64 may be provided at the second end 56 of the electro-optic device 10. The first bus 62 may provide a first electrical connection to the first electrode 34, and the second bus 64 may provide a second electrical connection to the second electrode 36. It is generally contemplated that the first end 54 and the second end 56, as well as the buses 62, 64, may be hidden along the top portion or the bottom portion of the electro-optic device 10 via an opaque strip 70 that outlines at least a portion of the perimeter of the electro-optic device 10. For example, if the electro-optic device 10 is implemented in a skylight, the buses 62, 64 may be hidden within the perimeter of the skylight. The buses 62, 64 may be coupled to at least one of the electrodes 34, 36 adjacent to the perimeter and may also be hidden via the strip 70.

[0041] Still referring to Figure 2 and 3, the first electro-optical element 22 can be connected in series with the second electro-optical element 24 via the common electrode 38. More specifically, the common electrode 38 can be shared by the first electro-optical element 22 and the second electro-optical element 24. In some cases, the common or shared electrode 38 can be divided into one or more segments or sections and conductively connected to form a common node (e.g., having a common electrical characteristic or common voltage). The power circuit system 76 can be connected to the first electrode 34 and the second electrode 36 adjacent to the corresponding ends of the substrates 26, 28. The power circuit system 76 includes a first node 78 and a second node 80, where the first node 78 connects the power circuit system 76 to the first electro-optical element 22, and the second node 80 connects the power circuit system 76 to the second electro-optical element 24. The power circuit system 76 can have a relative positive voltage V + corresponding to the positive terminal of the power circuit system 76 and a relative negative voltage V - . The power circuit system 76 can be configured to apply a potential across the first node 78 and the second node 80.

[0042] The power circuit system 76 can include an AC power source, a variable power source, a DC power source, and / or a voltage reversal circuit system for reversing the potential (i.e., making positive charges negative and vice versa). According to one aspect of the present disclosure, when a potential is applied to the electro-optical device 10 (e.g., applied across the first electrode 34 and the second electrode 36), the current is configured to flow along the current path 84 (see Figure 3 ) through the medium forming the first electro-optical segment 48 and the second electro-optical segment 50 via the common electrode 38. More specifically, in one aspect of the present disclosure, the current path 84 can extend from the first electrode 34 through the first electro-optical segment 48 to the common electrode 38, and then from the common electrode 38 through the second electro-optical segment 50 to the second electrode 36. Depending on various aspects of the electro-optical device 10, the current path 84 can form multiple shapes. For example, the light and / or heat transmitted to the electro-optical elements 22, 24 can cause the current density to shift in various directions. Additionally, under normal operating conditions, one or more portions of the current path 84 can deviate from the illustrated path. It is generally contemplated that the electro-optical device 10 can be configured to direct the current to the opposite or adjacent sides of the electro-optical device 10, and the illustrated configuration is not restrictive.

[0043] Figure 3 The current path 84 shown and described herein can be reversed such that the current can be operable to flow, for example, from the second electro-optical element 24 to the first electro-optical element 22 in the symmetric path shown in Figure 2 . It is generally contemplated that the illustrated current path 84 can also have a width W across the electro-optical device 10 ( Figure 2) The width distribution of the distribution. The width distribution may be similar to or different from the illustrated current path 84. Additionally, the path 84 may vary along the length L of the electro-optic device 10. For example, the current path 84 may flow between the first electrode 34 and the second electrode 36 in a sinusoidal shape. This current path 84 is intended to be exemplary and non-limiting. For example, current may flow from any portion of the first electrode 34 across the first electro-optic segment 48 to the common electrode 38 at any point along the first electro-optic element 22. The illustrated current path 84 may illustrate the current density distribution through which at least a majority of the current will flow. The geometry of the electro-optic elements 22, 24 may affect the particular current path 84 and the path of the highest current density. For example, increasing the spacing between the elements 22, 24 and / or the spacing between the substrates 26, 28 may cause the amplitude of the curve / path 84 to decrease. In some examples, the electro-optic device 10 having an elongated shape may produce an extended path 84 of current.

[0044] When current flows through the electro-optic device 10, each electro-optic segment 48, 50 may be configured to adjust or reduce the transmittance of light through the electro-optic device 10. Continuing with this example, when the potential is removed between the first electrode 34 and the second electrode 36, thereby restricting current flow through the electro-optic device 10, the electro-optic segments 48, 50 may be configured to increase the transmittance of light through the electro-optic device 10. When the potential is reversed, a reverse current may flow between the first electro-optic element 22 and the second electro-optic element 24 to interact with the electro-optic segments 48, 50, causing the electro-optic elements 22, 24 to become clear or darken. In this way, the power circuit system 76 may be configured to control the transmittance of light through the electro-optic device 10 to provide a controlled, adjustable light electro-optic device 10. If the electro-optic elements 22, 24 have been previously powered / darkened, the equipotential voltage of the corresponding electrodes may act as a short circuit to clear the electro-optic elements 22, 24. Additionally, for example, reducing the voltage on the electro-optic elements 22, 24 below the electrochromic activation threshold, or reverse biasing and then floating may also clear the electro-optic elements 22, 24.

[0045] Now referring to Figures 5 - 7 , the power circuit system 76 may include a first power source 86 and a second power source 88. The second power source 88 may be in series with the first power source 86 via a third node 90. The third node 90 may be connected to the common electrode 38. As Figure 5 shown, it is generally contemplated that the third node 90 may be near the common electrode 38 near one end of the first substrate 26 or the second substrate 28 and may be operable to provide a common electrode voltage V associated with the common electrode 38 s . Alternatively, the third node 90 may be in a manner as later referred to Figure 13The other manner described and shown is connected to the common electrode 38. As previously described, in some cases, the common electrode 38 may be divided or separated into non - continuous electrode portions and conductively interconnected to form a common node. Refer to Figure 21 Examples of this configuration are shown and discussed. Thus, the common electrode 38 may correspond to a common node shared between two or more electro - optic elements (e.g., 22, 24) as discussed herein.

[0046] More specifically referring to Figure 6 and 7 , the controller 92 may communicate with one or both of the first power supply 86 and the second power supply 88 and may be operable to control the first power supply 86 and the second power supply 88. For example, the controller 92 may be operable to adjust the first output voltage V OUT1 of the first power supply 86 and / or the second output voltage V OUT2 of the second power supply 88. The controller 92 may also communicate with any one of the first node 78, the second node 80, and the third node 90 to monitor the electrical characteristics of the electro - optic device 10.

[0047] For example, the controller 92 may be operable to monitor the potential of the third node 90 relative to one or both of the first node 78 and the second node 80. In this way, the controller 92 may also be operable to control one of the first power supply 86 and the second power supply 88 based on the potential associated with the third node 90. Additionally or alternatively, the controller 92 may be configured to monitor the first current I A flowing through the electro - optic elements 22, 24, including the current I A1 flowing between the first electro - optic element 22 and the third node 90. The controller 92 may be operable to control one or more of the first power supply 86 and the second power supply 88 based on any one of the currents I A , I A1 , I A2 . The current I A through the first electro - optic element 22 may be equal to the sum of the current I A2 flowing through the second electro - optic element 24 and the current I A1 flowing between the common electrode 38 and the third node 90. It is generally contemplated that although the exemplary power supply circuit system 76 includes a first DC power supply and a second DC power supply, any type of power supply may be used to implement the electrical characteristics of the electro - optic device 10 (e.g., at least one AC power supply, a bridge rectifier, a voltage inverter circuit system, etc.).

[0048] According to some aspects of the present disclosure, the third node 90 may not have a direct electrical connection to the common electrode 38 (see Figure 7)。According to some aspects of the present disclosure, the controller 92 may be electrically connected to the common electrode 38 via the control circuitry 94, and may be electrically connected to the first node 78 and the second node 80 via the control circuitry 94. The controller 92 may be operable to control the power supplies 86, 88 based on the potential between the common electrode 38 and either or both of the first node 78 and the third node 90. For example, the control circuitry 94 may include control circuit nodes 96 electrically connected to the first node 78, the second node 80, and / or the third node 90 to monitor the voltages associated with the nodes 78, 80, 90. Additionally or alternatively, the control circuit nodes 96 may be configured to monitor the current passing through one or more of the first node 78, the second node 80, or the third node 90. For example, any one of the first node 78, the second node 80, and the third node 90 may include an open portion 98 to allow the control circuit nodes 96 to make electrical contact. It should be understood that other current monitoring techniques may be employed to monitor the current flowing through the first node 78, the second node 80, and / or the third node 90. The control circuitry 94 may also include communication nodes 100 operable to control and / or monitor the power supply circuitry 76. The communication nodes 100 may have a voltage or current that operates to change the voltage of one or more power supplies such as the power supplies 86, 88.

[0049] The electro-optical device 10 may also include a power conditioning circuitry 102 inserted between the common electrode 38 and either or both of the first node 78 and the second node 80. With specific reference Figure 6 , the power conditioning circuitry 102 may include an electrical short 104 between the third node 90 and the common electrode 38. In this way, the current (e.g., current I A may be diverted from the current I A2 ). Other arrangements of the power conditioning circuitry 102 are described later with reference to Figures 8 - 12 , 16, and 19.

[0050] Now referring to Figures 8 - 11 , the power conditioning circuitry 102 may include a first power conditioning circuit 106 and a second power conditioning circuit 108. The first power conditioning circuit 106 may be electrically inserted between the first node 78 and the third node 90. The second power conditioning circuit 108 may be electrically inserted between the second node 80 and the third node 90. Additionally, as Figure 8As shown in , the first power regulating circuit 106 can be electrically connected in parallel with the first power supply 86, and the second power regulating circuit system 108 can be electrically connected in parallel with the second power supply 88. One or more of the first power regulating circuit system 106 and the second power regulating circuit system 108 can include at least one of a resistor 110, an H-bridge 111 (e.g., a 4-transistor circuit for reversing polarity), a diode (including, for example, a shunt regulator circuit system 112), a switch 114, a variable resistance device 116, and any other type of power regulating circuit system 102. The switch 114 can be in the form of a transistor, such as a MOSFET or BJT transistor, which is configured to operate as a switch 114 to allow current to flow through the switch 114. It is generally contemplated that the shunt regulator circuit system 112 may include a pair of Zener diodes symmetrically opposed to each other for bipolar operation, where the breakdown voltage is tuned at the critical voltage of the electro-optical elements 22, 24 (e.g., considering the forward voltage of one or both Zener diodes, which is 1.2V). As illustratively shown, controller 92 may be in electrical communication with power conditioning circuitry 102 and may be operable to control at least a portion of power conditioning circuitry 102. For example, a voltage or current provided via control circuitry 94 may be operable to change a resistance, capacitance, inductance, voltage, or current of power conditioning circuitry 102.

[0051] The power regulation circuit system 102 can be used to regulate the voltage and / or current flowing through the first electro-optical element 22 and the second electro-optical element 24. More specifically, the first power regulation circuit 106 can be used to regulate a voltage of approximately 1.2V or less on the first electro-optical element 22. The second power regulation circuit 108 can be operable to maintain a similar voltage on the second electro-optical element 24. In this way, overvoltages on the electro-optical elements 22, 24 can be limited, thereby limiting damage to one or more electrical components of the electro-optical device 10. In addition, the power regulation circuit system 102 can allow the first electro-optical element 22 to be electrically connected in series with the second electro-optical element 24 without the second electro-optical element 24 being subjected to excessive current or overvoltage. For example, the power regulation circuit system 102 may include current sinking and voltage regulating devices, such as resistors, diodes, integrated circuits (ICs), and / or other analog or digital circuit elements.

[0052] More specifically refer to Figures 9 - 11 , the power circuit system 76 can be configured to provide a global voltage V to the electro-optical device 10 (via, for example, a single power supply). G。In the exemplary illustration shown, the power regulation circuitry 102 includes active electrical components, and the active electrical components include separate power circuits. For example, voltage regulation can be achieved by using a combination of diodes, resistors, potentiometers, rheostats, capacitors, transistors, and integrated circuits (e.g., LM317), and switching can be achieved via a combination of diodes, transistors, relays, gates, resistors, and ICs. Voltage regulation and switching can be combined with the power regulation circuitry 102 and / or in parallel with each electro-optic element 22, 24 to regulate and / or supply voltage to the electro-optic elements 22, 24. The parallel arrangement of the power regulation circuitry 102 with the electro-optic elements 22, 24 can be used to maximize the full-power potential (e.g., 0.8 - 1.2V) to modulate the voltage, and / or to bypass one or more electro-optic elements 22, 24 by shorting the electrodes or placing the electrodes of the electro-optic elements at an equipotential.

[0053] More specifically referring to Figure 9 , the voltage regulation circuitry 102 and switching can be coordinated by a controller or logic device and a single variable power supply that sets a global voltage V G , such that the voltage across the device 10 (e.g., all electro-optic elements of the device 10) can be limited by the sum of the desired supply voltages of each electro-optic element 22, 24 to avoid overvoltage. In accordance with various aspects of the present disclosure, a voltage / current sensing circuit can be included to coordinate with the single power supply such that the electro-optic elements 22, 24 do not experience overvoltage. The coordination can be managed by a microcontroller configured and / or programmed to control the voltage. For example, individual power circuits can step down the global voltage V G to a local voltage for the individual electro-optic elements 22, 24. For example, in the case of two electro-optic elements 22, 24, the power circuit system 76 can be operable to provide approximately 2.4V globally, and separate power regulation circuits 106, 108 can be operable to regulate the 2.4V to provide a local voltage of 1.2V to each electro-optic element 22, 24. It should be understood that similar functional characteristics can be obtained by employing multiple separate power supplies. The voltages described herein are for exemplary purposes and do not require the electro-optic device 10 of the present disclosure to operate at these specific voltage values or ranges.

[0054] Referring to Figure 10 and 11, the electro - optical device 10 may include a first resistor 120 electrically inserted between the power supply circuit system 76 and the first electrode 34. A second resistor 122 may be electrically inserted between the power supply circuit system 76 and the first common electrode 38 (via, for example, the first power - regulating circuit 106) to regulate the voltage across the first electro - optical element 22 and the second electro - optical element 24. It is generally contemplated that any number of electro - optical elements may include any number of corresponding resistors 120, 122 for regulating the voltage across the corresponding electro - optical elements. According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a variable - resistance device 124 may be electrically inserted between the power supply circuit system 76 and either or each of the first electro - optical element 22 and / or the second electro - optical element 24. Since the resistors can be inserted between each junction of a pair of electrodes and the power supply circuit system 76, the effect can be that as the global voltage V G increases, when the voltage across each electro - optical element 22, 24 passes through its threshold voltage, the electro - optical elements 22, 24 darken in a sequential or cascaded manner. Decreasing the global voltage V G can clear the cascaded manner to achieve the opposite situation. The resistances of the resistors may be similar or different and may be configured to allow a single voltage to cause a ramp effect (e.g., a sequentially - delayed voltage response).

[0055] Referring Figure 10 , the variable - resistance device 124 may be electrically connected to the second electrode 36. The variable - resistance device 124 may be configured to set a specific resistance value during the manufacturing process of the electro - optical device 10. The variable - resistance device 124 may alternatively or additionally be configured to communicate with the controller 92. The controller 92 may be operable to adjust the resistance of the variable - resistance device 124 based on the desired voltage distribution of the electro - optical device 10. For example, setting the variable - resistance device 124 to a lower resistance may allow a larger current to flow through the electro - optical elements 22, 24 and / or reduce the voltage across at least one of the electro - optical elements 22, 24. Similarly, the resistances selected for the first resistor 120 and / or the second resistor 122 (along with the nth resistor corresponding to the nth electro - optical element) may have values for maintaining the desired voltage across each electro - optical element 22, 24. For example, the target voltage across each electro - optical element 22, 24 may be 1.2 V, and the resistance of each of the first resistor 120 and the second resistor 122 may be configured to achieve a substantially target voltage across each electro - optical element 22, 24 at a given current.

[0056] Continuing to refer Figure 10 , a bypass circuit 125 may be provided in parallel with each electro - optical element 22, 24. For example, the bypass circuit 125 may provide an alternative path for the current flowing from the element 22 to the resistor 122. The bypass circuit 125 may include a diode to limit the current through the element 22 or the voltage across the element when the element 24 is activated. The inclusion of the bypass circuit 125 may limit over - voltage or over - current to the electro - optical device 10.

[0057] Referring more specifically to Figure 11 , the power regulation circuitry 102 may include a first switch 126 in parallel with the first electro-optic element 22 and a second switch 128 in parallel with the second electro-optic element 24. The controller 92 may be operable to control the first switch 126 and the second switch 128 based on a pre-configured algorithm to control the voltage and / or current flowing through each electro-optic element 22, 24. The switches 126, 128 may also be controlled based on the voltage across one or more of the electro-optic elements 22, 24 or the current through one or more of the electro-optic elements 22, 24. For example, if the voltage across the first electro-optic element 22 approaches or exceeds a threshold voltage (e.g., 1.2V), the controller 92 may be operable to close the first switch 126 to divert current away from the first electro-optic element 22. Conversely, if the voltage across the first electro-optic element 22 drops below another threshold voltage (e.g., 0.8V), the controller 92 may be operable to open the first switch 126 to allow more current to flow through the first electro-optic element 22. This is a non-limiting example and may be applied to any electro-optic element having a switch in parallel with the electro-optic element.

[0058] It is generally contemplated that one or both of the switches 126, 128 may be electro-actuable switches, such as transistors, multiple transistors, or any type of switching circuitry. Additionally, one or both of the switches 126, 128 may be controlled via pulse-width modulation (PWM) and configured to divert the average current through one or both of the switches 126, 128 based on the duty cycle of a PWM signal. It is generally contemplated that the present disclosure does not limit the specific number of electro-optic elements of the electro-optic device 10. As previously described, the electro-optic device 10 may include n electro-optic elements having corresponding power regulation circuitry 102 that is similar or different from the first power regulation circuit 106 and / or the second power regulation circuit 108.

[0059] Referring to Figures 12 - 14, an exemplary electro - optic device 10 including five electro - optic elements is shown, demonstrating the scalability of the electro - optic device 10 of the present disclosure. For example, the electro - optic device 10 may include a plurality of additional electro - optic elements 130a, 130b, 130c arranged in series with the previously described first electro - optic element 22 and second electro - optic element 24. In the aspect shown, the plurality of additional electro - optic elements 130a, 130b, 130c may include three additional electro - optic elements, but any number can be contemplated. The exemplary additional electro - optic elements 130a, 130b, 130c may be constructed similar to the first electro - optic element 22 and second electro - optic element 24 with corresponding electrode pairs, cavities 134a, 134b, 134c, electro - optic segments 136a, 136b, 136c, gaps 52, etc. Using the first additional electro - optic element 130a as an example, the first additional electro - optic element 130a may include a common electrode shared with the second electro - optic element 24, such as the second electrode 36. For example, Figure 2 and 3 the common electrode 38 shown in may be used as the first common electrode 38, and the second electrode 36 may be used as the second common electrode. Figure 13 and 14 The arrangement of sequential common electrodes for the remaining additional electro - optic elements (e.g., the second additional electro - optic element 130b and the third additional electro - optic element 130c) is depicted in, and as previously described, can be applied to any number of additional electro - optic elements of the electro - optic device 10.

[0060] The number of common electrodes may be equal to the number of electro - optic elements 22, 24 of the electro - optic device 10 minus one. For example, as shown in Figures 12 - 14 , five electro - optic elements 22, 24, 130a, 130b, 130c are provided by employing 4 common electrodes 36, 38, 132a, 132b and a pair of end electrodes 34, 132c. In other words, the total number of electrodes may be the number of electro - optic elements plus 1 (e.g., 6 electrodes, 5 electro - optic elements). These examples are generally contemplated as non - limiting, and no specific ratio of electrodes to electro - optic elements is required according to the present disclosure.

[0061] More specifically referring to Figure 13 and 14, a plurality of electro-optic elements 22, 24 may be formed in a linear array along the length L of the electro-optic device 10 and share a common radius of curvature r from a common center of curvature c. The electro-optic device 10 may be formed in a flat or slightly curved shape. According to various aspects of the present disclosure, each component of the plurality of electro-optic elements 22, 24 may extend substantially coplanarly with the components of adjacent electro-optic elements. For example, the plurality of electrodes 34, 36, 38, 132a, 132b, 132c may extend in a common plane. It is generally contemplated that the electro-optic device 10 constructed according to various aspects of the present disclosure may be scalable such that any number of electro-optic elements with corresponding power regulation circuits may be included in a single electro-optic device 10.

[0062] Figure 12 and 13 The electro-optic device 10 shown in may provide additional connection points 138 to the plurality of electrodes 34, 36, 132a, 132b, 132c. According to various aspects of the present disclosure, the plurality of electrodes 34, 36, 38, 132a, 132b, 132c may have one or more intermediate electrodes (e.g., 36 and 132a) that are "landlocked" from direct electrical connections at the first end 54 and the second end 56 of the electro-optic device 10. Referring to Figure 14 , the first substrate 26 and the second substrate 28 may define one or more apertures 140 for receiving intermediate electrical connections 142 for supplying power to the intermediate electrodes 36, 132a. Additionally or alternatively, the intermediate electrical connection 142 may be a bus and disposed on one or both of the first edge 58 and the second edge 60 of the landlocked electro-optic element ( Figure 13 ). The intermediate electrode or bus may also be disposed, embedded, and hidden along the barrier 46.

[0063] Specifically referring to Figure 12 , a general aspect of the electrical configuration of the electro-optic device 10 having n electro-optic elements is shown (e.g., any number of electro-optic elements between elements 130b and 130c). The electrical configuration may include any combination of the circuitry previously described with reference to Figures 6 - 11 . More specifically, Figure 14 the electrical configuration shown in may include a power supply circuitry 76 and its corresponding parts, a power regulation circuitry 102 and its corresponding parts, etc. Additionally, a plurality of nodes 144 (e.g., n nodes) may be provided in an alternative, where each of the plurality of nodes 144 functionally corresponds to the third node 90 shown and described with reference to Figure 6 and 8 , and where each of the plurality of nodes 144 is inserted between two power supplies.

[0064] In accordance with some aspects of the present disclosure, some but not all of the electro-optic elements 22, 24, 130a, 130b, 130c may be individually controlled via the power conditioning circuitry 102 and / or the control circuitry 94. For example, one or more of the intermediate electrodes 36, 132a may not have a direct electrical connection and may have a floating voltage relative to one or more of the plurality of electrodes 34, 38, 132b, 132c. This may result in a less direct control of one or more of the intermediate electrodes 36, 132a. By providing the electro-optic elements associated with the floating electrodes with a smaller size and / or a narrower geometry, the lack of individual control may still allow these electro-optic elements to remain within a target voltage range. It is generally also contemplated that for configurations where the intermediate electrical connection 142 is absent, the voltage on one or more of the electro-optic elements (e.g., elements 24, 130a, and 130b) may be less than the voltage on the electro-optic elements 22 and 130c (e.g., the outer electro-optic elements). For example, if one or more of the intermediate electrodes 36, 132a have a larger area or volume than the electrodes 34 and 132c, the total impedance associated with the intermediate electrodes 36, 132a may be smaller than that of the electrodes 34, 132c. The smaller total impedance may result in a smaller voltage (e.g., 0.8 V) on the electro-optic elements 22, 130c compared to the electro-optic elements 24, 130a, 130b.

[0065] In accordance with Figures 15 - 20 In one configuration generally shown in, the electro-optic device 210 includes a non-linear matrix of electro-optic elements 222, 224, 225 disposed between a first substrate 226 and a second substrate 228. The first substrate 226 has a first surface 230 and a second surface 231 opposite the first surface 230. The second substrate 228 has a third surface 232 and a fourth surface 233. The fourth surface 233 is opposite the third surface 232. The second surface 231 faces the third surface 232. In some configurations, the electro-optic elements 222, 224, 225 may have different geometries. The electro-optic elements 222, 224, 225 may include a first electro-optic element 222 in series with a third electro-optic element 225, with a second electro-optic element 224 inserted between the first electro-optic element 222 and the third electro-optic element 225.

[0066] The electro-optical device 210 includes a first end electrode 234 and a second end electrode 236, as well as a first common electrode 237 and a second common electrode 238. The first end electrode 234 and the second common electrode 238 may be spaced apart from the second end electrode 236 and the first common electrode 237 to define at least one cavity (not shown) therebetween. More specifically, the at least one cavity may include a first cavity (not shown) disposed between the first end electrode 234 and a portion of the first common electrode 237, a second cavity disposed between another portion of the first common electrode 237 and a portion of the second common electrode 238, and a third cavity disposed between another portion of the second common electrode 238 and the second end electrode 236. The first cavity, the second cavity, and the third cavity may be electrically isolated from each other by at least one barrier 244, 246. For example, the at least one barrier may include an end barrier 244 disposed around the perimeter of the electro-optical device 210 and an intermediate barrier 246 that divides a single electro-optical element into a plurality of electro-optical segments 248, 250, 251 corresponding to the first cavity, the second cavity, and the third cavity. The intermediate barrier 246 may form a T-shape corresponding to the configuration of the electro-optical elements 222, 224, 225. The intermediate barrier 246 between the cavities may be used to physically isolate the first electro-optical segment 248 from the second electro-optical segment 250 and the third electro-optical segment 251.

[0067] As described in the previous configuration of the reference electro-optical device 10, the barriers 244, 246 may be formed of epoxy resin and may be non-conductive. Similarly, the electrodes 234, 236, 237, 238 may include a conductive substantially transparent material, such as indium tin oxide (ITO). The electrodes 234, 236, 237, 238 may be surface-mounted to the inner surfaces (e.g., the second surface 231 and the third surface 232) of the first substrate 226 and the second substrate 228. Although ITO is discussed, various transparent conductive materials may be used with the electrodes 234, 236, 237, 238. The electro-optical segments 248, 250, 251 may include an electrochromic substance whose color may change when a potential is applied across the electro-optical segments 248, 250, 251.

[0068] Reference Figure 15 and 18In the structural arrangement shown, the first end electrode 234 may be laterally spaced from the second common electrode 238 to define a first gap 252 therebetween. The second end electrode 236 may be spaced from the first common electrode 237 to define a second gap 253 therebetween. The gaps 252, 253 may be used to electrically isolate the electrodes 234, 236, 237, 238 and may correspond to the position of the intermediate barrier 246. The first electro-optic element 222 may be formed by the first end electrode 234, the first electro-optic segment 248, and the first common electrode 237. The second electro-optic element 224 may be formed by the first common electrode 237, the second electro-optic segment 250, and the second common electrode 238. The third electro-optic segment 251 may be formed by the second common electrode 238, the third electro-optic segment 251, and the second end electrode 236.

[0069] The electro-optic device 210 may have a length L extending between a first end 254 and a second end 256 of the electro-optic device 210, the second end being opposite the first end 254. The electro-optic device 210 may include a first edge 258 and a second edge 260 extending between the first end 254 and the second end 256 to form a generally planar shape of the electro-optic device 210. The first end 254 and the second end 256 may be hidden along a top portion or a bottom portion of the electro-optic device 210 via an opaque strip 261 outlining at least a portion of the perimeter of the electro-optic device 210. For example, if the electro-optic device 210 is a skylight, the first end 254 and the second end 256 may be hidden within the perimeter of the skylight. At least one electrical conductor 262, 263, 264, 265 (e.g., at least one bus bar) may be coupled to at least one of the electrodes 234, 236, 237, 238 adjacent to the perimeter and also hidden via the strip 261. For example, the first electrical conductor 262 may be coupled to the first end electrode 234 at the first end 254. The second electrical conductor 263 may be coupled to the first common electrode 237 at the first end 254. The third electrical conductor 264 may be coupled to the second common electrode 238 at the first end 254. The fourth electrical conductor 265 may be coupled to the second end electrode 236 at the first end 254.

[0070] Now referring Figure 16 and 19 , the first electro-optic element 222 may be in series with the third electro-optic element 225 via the second electro-optic element 224. Similar to the electrical arrangement described previously, the electro-optic device 210 may include a power supply circuit system 76, a power conditioning circuit system 102, and a controller 92. The power supply circuit system 76 and the power conditioning circuit system 102 may have one or more of the features described previously, including for supplying a global voltage V GOne or more power supplies and one or more resistors, switch circuits, capacitors, inductors, variable resistance devices 124, etc. that are in parallel with one or more of the electro-optic elements 222, 224, 225. The power conditioning circuitry 102 may include a first power conditioning circuit 274, a second power conditioning circuit 276, and a third power conditioning circuit 278 corresponding to the first electro-optic element 222, the second electro-optic element 224, and the third electro-optic element 225, respectively. More specifically, the first power conditioning circuit 274 may be in parallel with the first electro-optic element 222, the second power conditioning circuit 276 may be in parallel with the second electro-optic element 224, and the third power conditioning circuit 278 may be in parallel with the third electro-optic element 225. As shown in an alternative, a plurality of nodes 280 may be provided, where each of the plurality of nodes 280 functionally corresponds to the reference Figure 6 and 8 shown and the third node 90 described (e.g., where each of the plurality of nodes 280 is inserted between two power supplies). It will be appreciated from the present disclosure that any number of resistive devices, including the variable resistance device 124, may be provided on the first node 78, the second node 80, or any one of the plurality of nodes 280.

[0071] Referring again to Figure 15 and 18 the structural depiction of the electro-optic device 210 in, the electro-optic device 210 may be configured with specific electrical characteristics exhibited when a power supply circuitry 76 is applied to the electro-optic device 210. For example, when a potential is applied across the first end electrode 234 and the second end electrode 236, a voltage distribution may be formed across the electro-optic device 210, and current may flow through the electro-optic device 210. The current may be configured to flow along the current path 284 from the first end electrode 234 through the first electro-optic segment 248 to the first common electrode 237, through the second electro-optic segment 250 to the second common electrode 238, and through the third electro-optic segment 251 to the second end electrode 236. The electro-optic segments 248, 250, 251 may have different geometries and / or orientations. As shown by way of example, the first electro-optic segment 248 and the third electro-optic segment 251 may be disposed adjacent the first end 254 of the electro-optic device 210, and the second electro-optic segment 250 may be disposed at the second end 256 of the electro-optic device 210.

[0072] The current path 284 may have a spiral shape between the first electro-optic element 222 and the third electro-optic element 225, as Figure 15 and 18As shown. This can be achieved by configuring the electro-optic device 210 to direct current in the length direction from the first end 254 to the second end 256, then in the width direction from the first edge 258 to the second edge 260, and then back from the second end 256 towards the first end 254. It should be understood that the current path 284 can correspond to the region with the highest current density and can form multiple shapes depending on various aspects of the electro-optic device 210. For example, the light and / or heat transmitted to the electro-optic elements 222, 224, 225 can cause the current density to shift across the device 210 by various amounts and / or in various directions. Additionally, under normal operating conditions, one or more portions of the current path 284 can deviate from the shown path. The electro-optic device 210 can be configured to direct current to opposite or adjacent sides of the electro-optic device 210, and the shown configuration of the current path 284 is not restrictive.

[0073] As Figure 15 and 18 As shown, the current path 284 can extend sinusoidally between the first end electrode 234 and the first common electrode 237 along the length L of the electro-optic device 210 and between the thicknesses T of the electro-optic device 210. Then, the current path 284 can extend through the thickness T of the electro-optic device 210 in a bent manner and along the width W of the electro-optic device 210 between the first common electrode 237 and the second common electrode 238. The current path 284 can then be configured to span the thickness T of the electro-optic elements 222, 224, 225 and extend along the length of the electro-optic device 210 in the length direction between the first common electrode 237 and the second end electrode 236. In this way, current can flow from the first end 254 of the electro-optic device 210 and return to the first end 254 of the electro-optic device 210.

[0074] Referring Figure 17 , the first plot 288 shows an exemplary potential distribution 290 along the length L of the electro-optic device 210. More specifically, the first plot 288 shows the voltage drop between one or more planes generally parallel to the width W of the electro-optic device 210. Referring Figures 15 - 18 , the first segment 292 can correspond to the first width-direction plane that intersects the electro-optic device 210 at the first dashed line L1 adjacent to the first end 254. The second segment 294 can correspond to the second width-direction plane that intersects the electro-optic device 210 at the second dashed line L2 in the middle portion of the electro-optic device 210. The third segment 296 can correspond to the third width-direction plane that intersects the electro-optic device 210 at the third dashed line L3 adjacent to the second end 256 of the electro-optic device 210.

[0075] Relative to the second node 80, multiple voltages V A , V B, V C , V D . For example, the first voltage V A can be generated on the first end electrode 234, and the second voltage V B can be generated on the first common electrode 237, the third voltage V C can be generated on the second common electrode 238, and the fourth voltage V D can be generated on the second end electrode 236. Intermediate voltages can also be generated along the second section 294 and the third section 296. As shown in the first drawing 288 as shown in Figure 17 , in the first voltage V A and the second voltage V B , the region A1 defined therebetween generally shows that there can be a potential (e.g., an incremental potential) along the length of the first electro-optic element 222. Similarly, in the second voltage V B and the third voltage V C , the region A2 defined therebetween generally indicates that there can be a potential along the entire length L of the second electro-optic element 224. In addition, in the third voltage V C and the fourth voltage V D , the region A3 defined therebetween generally shows that there can be a potential along the length L of the third electro-optic element 225.

[0076] The potential across any two points on a width direction plane intersecting one of the electro-optic elements 222, 224, 225 may not match all similarly positioned pairs of points. This is generally shown in the first drawing 288 by the varying heights of each defined region A1, A2, A3. The first drawing 288 also includes three exemplary currents 299a, 299b, 299c flowing through the electro-optic device 210. Since the potential can vary along the lengths of the electro-optic elements 222, 224, 225, as shown, the current density can also vary along the lengths of the electro-optic elements 222, 224, 225, thereby forming the current path 284 generally shown in Figure 15 .

[0077] More specifically referring to Figures 18 - 20 , the auxiliary electrical conductors 300, 302 can be coupled to the second ends 256 of the electro-optic elements 222, 224, 225 on one or both of the first common electrode 237 and the second common electrode 238 to draw current density towards the second ends 256. For example, the first auxiliary electrical conductor 300 can be disposed on the first common electrode 237. The auxiliary electrical conductors 300, 302 can be bus bars similar to the foregoing examples. Specifically referring to Figure 18 and 19, the first auxiliary circuit 304 can be operable to insert between the first auxiliary electrical conductor 300 and the second electrical conductor 263. The second auxiliary electrical conductor 302 can be disposed on the second common electrode 238, and the first auxiliary circuit 304 can be operable to insert between the second auxiliary electrical conductor 302 and the third electrical conductor 264. One or both of the first auxiliary circuit 304 and the second auxiliary circuit 306 can include variable resistance devices 310, 312. For example, the first variable resistance device 310 can be operable to control the potential across and / or the current between the first auxiliary electrical conductor 300 and the second auxiliary electrical conductor 302. The second variable resistance device 312 can be operable to control the potential across and / or the current between the second auxiliary electrical conductor 302 and the third electrical conductor 264. The variable resistance devices 310, 312 can be pre-configured for a desired voltage drop or can be actively controlled via the controller 92. According to some aspects, the voltage drop can be approximately 0V or an electrical short circuit.

[0078] The first auxiliary electrical conductor 300 and the second auxiliary electrical conductor 302 can include a conductive material, such as copper or tin, and the auxiliary electrical conductors 300, 302 can be disposed along the width, length, or around any part of one or more of the electrodes 234, 236, 237, 238. The auxiliary electrical conductors 300, 302 can also be oriented towards the second end 256. The first auxiliary electrical conductor 300 and the second auxiliary electrical conductor 302 can also be configured to transfer the current density towards the second end 256 of the electro-optical device 210 and / or the first edge 258 and the second edge 260 of the electro-optical device 210. For example, the first auxiliary electrical conductor 300 and the second auxiliary electrical conductor 302 can extend at least partially along the first edge 258 and the second edge 260 adjacent to the second end 256. As Figure 18 shown, the position and presence of the first auxiliary electrical conductor 300 and the second auxiliary electrical conductor 302 can be used to change the current path 284.

[0079] Figure 18 The current path 284 shown in Figure 15 can have similar characteristics (e.g., shape, conductivity, resistance, etc.) to the current path 284 shown in Figure 20) As shown, an external current 316 can be generated adjacent to the second end 256 of the electro-optical device 210. Additionally, in some cases, the area of the auxiliary electrical conductors 300, 302 that contact the common electrodes 237, 238 can be greater than or less than the area of each of the first electrical conductor 262, the second electrical conductor 263, the third electrical conductor 264, and the fourth electrical conductor 265. For example, the material, ratio, and corresponding conductive capacity / efficiency of each of the electrodes and electrical conductors can be sized to distribute the current density more uniformly in the second electro-optics 224, 225 and in accordance with the current density associated with the first electro-optical unit 222 and / or the third electro-optical unit 225. In some configurations, the area of the auxiliary electrical conductors 300, 302 that contact the common electrodes 237, 238 is approximately twice the area of each of the first electrical conductor 262, the second electrical conductor 263, the third electrical conductor 264, and the fourth electrical conductor 265 that contact the electrodes 234, 236, 237, 238.

[0080] The electro-optical elements 222, 224, 225 and the first substrate 226 and the second substrate 228 can be formed of various materials. For example, the first substrate 226 and the second substrate 228 can comprise a plastic material. The plastic materials for the first substrate 226 and the second substrate 228 can include, but are not limited to, polycarbonate, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyethylene naphthalate (PEN), polyester, polyamide, polyimide, acrylic, cycloolefin, polyethylene (PE), metallocene polyethylene (mPE), silicone, urethane, epoxy resin, and various polymeric materials. The first substrate 226 and the second substrate 228 can also be various forms of glass, crystal, metal, and / or ceramic, including but not limited to soda-lime float glass, borosilicate glass, borosilicate-aluminum glass, quartz, or various other compositions. When using a glass substrate, the first substrate 226 and the second substrate 228 can be annealed, thermally strengthened, chemically strengthened, partially tempered, or fully tempered. The electro-optical elements 222, 224, 225 forming the window 14 can be supported by a frame, which can correspond to a part or the entire frame that can be used to support the window 14 panel as needed.

[0081] The first substrate 226, the second substrate 228, and one or more protective layers may be adhered together by one or more thermosetting and / or thermoplastic materials. For example, the thermosetting and / or thermoplastic materials may correspond to at least one of the following materials: polyvinyl butyral (PVB), ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA), thermosetting EVA ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA), and thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU). Specific materials are described in the present disclosure and may correspond to exemplary materials that can be used as thermosetting and / or thermoplastic materials for adhering to one or more of the first substrate 226, the second substrate 228, and / or additional protective layers or coatings. Thus, the specific examples described herein are considered non-limiting examples. Additionally, the materials of the electro-optic elements, electrodes, dielectrics, substrates, and barriers described throughout the present disclosure may exist in many or only one of the above configurations shown in Figure 2 , 3 , 5, 13 - 15, and 18. Additionally, any of the circuit systems described above may be used for the various electrical approximations shown and described with respect to Figure 4 , 6 - 12, 16, and 19.

[0082] Now referring to Figure 21 , another example of an electro-optic device 10 is shown. Similar to many previous examples, the electro-optic device includes a plurality of electro-optic elements 22, 24 disposed between a first substrate 26 and a second substrate 28. As shown, the first electro-optic element 22 is adjacent to a second electro-optic element 24 having a common peripheral edge or boundary. In this configuration, the electro-optic elements 24 may be formed in adjacent segments 48, 50 of a continuous panel formed between the substrates 26, 28 of the electro-optic device 10. As provided by the various configurations of the electro-optic device 10, the present disclosure can provide improved response times when transitioning from a darkened or opaque state to a clear or transparent state and from a clear or transparent state to a darkened or opaque state by controlling the control signals transmitted to each of a plurality of corresponding electrodes 320a, 320b, 320c, 320d.

[0083] Figure 21The example shown in may represent the electro-optic device 10 in operation, which may maintain a transmissive state for an extended duration without discontinuously controlling the voltage potential across the opposing electrodes 322. For example, the opposing electrodes may include first opposing electrodes 320a, 320b and second opposing electrodes 320c, 320d. In operation, the structure and corresponding state control of the corresponding segments 48, 50 of the device 10 may be provided by including electrochromic techniques, which include surface-confined materials that form anode elements 324a, 324b or layers and cathode elements 326a, 326b or layers on the inner surface of the opposing electrodes 322. For example, the first electro-optic element 22 may include a first anode element 324a disposed on the first electrode 320a and a first cathode element 326a disposed on the second electrode 320b. Similarly, the second electro-optic element 24 may include a second anode element 324b disposed on the third electrode 320c and a second cathode element 326b disposed on the fourth electrode 320d. Additionally, two electrodes 320b, 320c that may be disposed on opposing substrates 26, 28 may be conductively connected via a conductive member 328, which may form a common node 330 or a common conductive element that includes the second electrode 320b and the third conductive electrode 320c conductively connected via the conductive member 328. In this configuration, adjacent segments 48, 50 may be connected in series when a common or similar control signal is applied via the electrodes 320b, 320c that form the common node 330.

[0084] As shown, the anode elements 324a, 324b may be separated by an ion-conductive electrolyte 332 disposed within the cavities 40, 42 formed by the corresponding electro-optic elements 22, 24. In some cases, the cavities 40, 42 may be separated by an insulating barrier 334 of the conductive isolating electrolyte 332. As shown in the figure, the conductive member 328 may correspond to a conductive bead, wire, jumper, or similar conductive connection, which may be enclosed within the material that forms the insulating barrier 334. In such a configuration, the signals and corresponding electrical responses of the first electrode 320a and the fourth electrode 320d may be insulated or isolated by the insulating barrier 334, while the second electrode 320b may be conductively connected to the third conductive electrode 320c that forms the common node 330. Although the insulating barrier 334 is described and shown in the exemplary embodiment, in some cases it may be useful to omit the insulating barrier 334 and rely on the electrolyte 332 to effectively isolate the first electrode 320a from the fourth electrode 320d. In some cases, depending on the desired operation of the device 10, such a configuration may be beneficial.

[0085] As referenced Figure 21As discussed, the device 10 can be operable to maintain a darkened or low-transmission state at an open circuit. The anode elements 324a, 324b or layers and the cathode elements 326a, 326b or layers can be separated by an electrolyte 332 in the form of a colorless or at least nearly colorless, transparent and chemically stable element. Such an electrolyte can allow ions to freely diffuse through the electrolyte 330, but prohibit (or at least significantly impede) the free passage of electrons or current. Thus, when the device 10 is in an electrochemically active and / or darkened state, ions are allowed to pass through the electrolyte 330 while electrons are impeded from passing. The electrolyte 330 can also be a membrane, or more specifically, an ion-exchange membrane. For example, if the electrolyte 332 is a cationic membrane, it will allow cations to pass while repelling anions, and vice versa.

[0086] In various embodiments, the anode and cathode materials forming the anode element 324 and the cathode element 326 or layers can be in a solution phase, a gel phase, held in a chamber or restricted to an inner surface by coating, and in some cases crosslinked to the electrodes 320a, 320b, 320c, 320d. In various examples, the anode material can include, but is not limited to, metallocenes, 5,10-dihydrophenazine, phenothiazine, phenoxazine, carbazole, triphenylene dioxazine, triphenylene dithiazine and related compounds. The cathode material can be a viologen, a low-dimer viologen, a non-dimer viologen or a metal oxide such as tungsten oxide, as these terms are used in the art. The term low-dimer viologen applies to some viologens that exhibit a lower degree of dimerization characteristics than dimer viologens. Exemplary viologens include, but are not limited to, methyl viologen, octyl viologen, benzyl viologen and polymeric viologen. Additionally, additional viologens are described in U.S. Patent Nos. 4,902,108; 6,188,505; 5,998,617; 6,710,906; and U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2015 / 0346573. Further, the restricted anode element 324 and the restricted cathode element 326 are further described in U.S. Patent No. 10,481,456 and U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2020 / 0409225.

[0087] Referring to any of the above aspects of an electro-optic device (e.g., electro-optic device 10 and / or electro-optic device 210) according to the present disclosure, in operation, arranging electro-optic elements in series can obviate the need for additional conductive materials (e.g., wires and busbars), and improve structural uniformity and responsiveness to electrical stimulation. Connecting electro-optic elements in series can provide a simpler manufacturing process for the electro-optic device. A potential problem with series-connected electro-optic elements is overvoltage on any individual electro-optic element. If subjected to prolonged overvoltage, certain types of electro-optic cells, such as electrochromic cells, may be damaged. Thus, monitoring the impedance, voltage, and / or current across each electro-optic element in the electro-optic device can allow the electro-optic device to ensure protection against overvoltage and / or limit the exposure time. In this way, the lifespan of the electro-optic elements can be extended and made uniform, such that some electro-optic elements do not undergo consistent overvoltage operation while other electro-optic elements of the electro-optic device are within a safe voltage threshold. The impedance can be subject to change based on environmental factors such as heat (e.g., from sunlight) and the spacing, size, and geometry of the electro-optic elements including the electrodes. By monitoring and controlling the impedance, voltage, and / or current of each electro-optic element, the voltage across each electro-optic element can be effectively regulated.

[0088] The power circuit system, power regulation circuit system, and control circuit system disclosed herein can operate together to maintain a target voltage (e.g., <0.9V, <1.0V, <1.1V, <1.2V, or any other target voltage) and / or current across the electro-optic elements. For example, a single variable voltage power supply can provide a global voltage across an entire array of electro-optic elements. Drain valves or bypass valves (e.g., a pair of opposing diodes), switching circuit systems, gate circuit systems, shunt resistors, etc. can be implemented in parallel with each electro-optic element to divert current from each electro-optic cell or regulate the voltage across each electro-optic cell. Additionally or alternatively, the controller can be operable to control the output of the variable voltage power supply based on the monitored characteristics of the power regulation circuit system and / or the electro-optic elements. The power regulation circuit system and / or the power circuit system can operate solely via electrical hardware (i.e., without software algorithms). As an alternative to a single variable voltage power supply, multiple power supplies in parallel can be provided, where one of the multiple power supplies corresponds to each electro-optic element in a stacked configuration (e.g., the power supply is in series with a common node of a pair of electro-optic elements and the electro-optic elements are in series with a common node of a pair of electro-optic elements, and the pair of electro-optic elements is electrically connected to a common node of a pair of power supplies). The power supply can supply power with forward biasing, reverse biasing, and / or voltage modulation for each electro-optic element or a selected number of electro-optic elements.

[0089] Generally, in accordance with various aspects of the present disclosure, the arrangement and electrical control of electro-optical elements can permit deviations in the size and / or geometry of the electro-optical elements. More specifically, in accordance with various aspects of the present disclosure, overvoltages / overcurrents caused by differences in the size or spacing of electro-optical elements, as well as changes in resistance / impedance due to temperature fluctuations, can be prevented, including more personalized control of the electro-optical elements.

[0090] In accordance with various aspects, the electro-optical element can include a memory chemistry configured to maintain a transmissive state when the vehicle and window control module are inactive (e.g., not actively supplied with energy from the vehicle's power source). That is, the electro-optical element can be implemented as an electrochromic device having a permanent color memory, which is configured to provide current for a long period of time during a transparent period after charging. Examples of such devices are discussed in U.S. Patent No. 9,964,828, entitled "ELECTROCHEMICAL ENERGY STORAGE DEVICES," the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0091] The electro-optical element can correspond to an electrochromic device configured to change the transmittance of the window discussed herein in response to an applied voltage from the window. Examples of control circuits and associated devices that can be configured to provide electrodes and hardware configured to control the electro-optical element are generally described in commonly assigned U.S. Patent No. 8,547,624, entitled "VARIABLE TRANSMISSION WINDOW SYSTEM," U.S. Patent No. 6,407,847, entitled "ELECTROCHROMIC MEDIUM HAVING A COLOR STABILITY," U.S. Patent No. 6,239,898, entitled "ELECTROCHROMIC STRUCTURES," U.S. Patent No. 6,597,489, entitled "ELECTRODE DESIGN FOR ELECTROCHROMIC DEVICES," and U.S. Patent No. 5,805,330, entitled "ELECTRO-OPTIC WINDOW INCORPORATING A DISCRETE PHOTOVOLTAIC DEVICE," the entire disclosure of each of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0092] Examples of electrochromic devices useful for windows are described in U.S. Patent No. 6,433,914, entitled "COLOR-STABILIZED ELECTROCHROMIC DEVICES", U.S. Patent No. 6,137,620, entitled "ELECTROCHROMIC MEDIA WITH CONCENTRATION-ENHANCED STABILITY, PROCESS FOR THE PREPARATION THEREOF AND USE IN ELECTROCHROMIC DEVICES", U.S. Patent No. 5,940,201, entitled "ELECTROCHROMIC MIRROR WITH TWO THIN GLASS ELEMENTS AND A GELLED ELECTROCHROMIC MEDIUM", and U.S. Patent No. 7,372,611, entitled "VEHICULAR REARVIEW MIRROR ELEMENTS AND ASSEMBLIES INCORPORATING THESE ELEMENTS", the entire disclosures of each of which are incorporated herein by reference. Other examples of variable transmission windows and systems for controlling them are disclosed in commonly assigned U.S. Patent No. 7,085,609, entitled "VARIABLE TRANSMISSION WINDOW CONSTRUCTIONS", and U.S. Patent No. 6,567,708, entitled "SYSTEM TO INTERCONNECT, LINK, AND CONTROL VARIABLE TRANSMISSION WINDOWS AND VARIABLE TRANSMISSION WINDOW CONSTRUCTIONS", each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. In other embodiments, the electro-optical device may comprise a suspended particle device, liquid crystal, or another system that changes transmittance by application of an electrical property.

[0093] According to some aspects of the present disclosure, an electro-optic device includes a first electro-optic element and a second electro-optic element, the second electro-optic element being connected in series with the first electro-optic element via a common node that conductively connects the first electro-optic element to the second electro-optic element. A power circuit system includes a first node and a second node, wherein the first node connects the power circuit system to the first electro-optic element, and wherein the second node connects the power circuit system to the second electro-optic element.

[0094] According to various aspects, the present disclosure may be implemented in various combinations with one or more of the following features or configurations:

[0095] - The common node includes a first common electrode shared by the first electro-optic element and the second electro-optic element;

[0096] - The power circuit system includes a first power source and a second power source connected in series with the first power source via a third node, the third node being connected to the first common electrode;

[0097] - A controller operable to control the first power source and the second power source;

[0098] - A power conditioning circuit system inserted between the first common electrode and one of the first node and the second node;

[0099] - A controller operable to control the power conditioning circuit system based on the potential of the first common electrode;

[0100] - A control circuit system operable to monitor the potential of the first common electrode relative to one of the first node and the second node; and control the power circuit system based on the potential;

[0101] - A third electro-optic element connected in series with the second electro-optic element via a second common electrode shared by the second electro-optic element and the third electro-optic element;

[0102] - The first electro-optic element and the second electro-optic element are electrochromic units;

[0103] - The common node includes a plurality of electrodes interconnected via conductive elements;

[0104] - An insulating barrier disposed between the first electro-optic element and the second electro-optic element, wherein the conductive element extends through the insulating layer to conductively connect the first electro-optic element to the second electro-optic element;

[0105] - The common node is formed by a first electrode of the first electro-optical element and a second electrode of the electro-optical element that are conductively connected via the conductive element; and / or

[0106] - An electrolyte, the electrolyte being disposed between the first electrode and the second electrode, wherein the conductive element conductively connects the first electrode to the second electrode across the electrolyte.

[0107] According to other aspects of the present disclosure, a method for controlling an electro-optical device, the electro-optical device including a plurality of electro-optical elements connected in series. The method includes controlling a first transmittance of a first electro-optical element by selectively generating a first potential difference between a first electrode and a second electrode across the first electro-optical element among the plurality of electro-optical elements; and controlling a second transmittance of a second electro-optical element by selectively generating a second potential difference between the second electrode and a third electrode across the second electro-optical element among the plurality of electro-optical elements, wherein the second electrode includes a node between the first electro-optical element and the second electro-optical element.

[0108] According to various aspects, the present disclosure may be implemented in various combinations in one or more of the following features or configurations:

[0109] - Monitoring at least one of the first potential difference or the second potential difference with respect to an intermediate voltage of the second electrode; and controlling at least one of the first potential difference and the second potential difference in response to the intermediate voltage; and / or

[0110] - Independently controlling the first transmittance via the first potential difference and independently controlling the second transmittance via the second potential difference in response to the intermediate voltage.

[0111] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, an electro-optical device includes: a first electro-optical element, the first electro-optical element including a first electrode, the first electrode being spaced apart from at least one second electrode, a first cavity being defined between the first electrode and the at least one second electrode, the first cavity including a first electro-optical medium; and a second electro-optical element, the second electro-optical element being connected in series with the first electro-optical element via the at least one second electrode, the second electro-optical element including a third electrode, the third electrode being spaced apart from the at least one second electrode, a second cavity being defined between the third electrode and the at least one second electrode, the second cavity including a second electro-optical medium. The at least one second electrode is conductively connected between the first electrode and the second electrode and forms a common node between the first electro-optical element and the second electro-optical element.

[0112] According to various aspects, the present disclosure may be implemented in various combinations in one or more of the following features or configurations:

[0113] - An electrical insulation barrier disposed between the first cavity and the second cavity, wherein the insulation barrier electrically insulates the first electro-optic medium from the second electro-optic medium, and a series connection provided by the at least one second electrode provides a series connection across the electrical insulation barrier;

[0114] - At least one second electrode forms a first opposing electrode across the first cavity opposite the first electrode and a second opposing electrode across the second cavity opposite the second electrode, wherein the first opposing electrode and the second opposing electrode are conductively connected via a conductive element to form the series connection; and / or

[0115] - At least one second electrode is a continuous electrode formed on a substrate of the electro-optic device, wherein the second electrode is common to the first electro-optic element and the second electro-optic element, and wherein, when a potential is applied across the first electrode and the third electrode, current is configured to flow via the second electrode in a current path from the first electro-optic medium to the second electro-optic medium.

[0116] It should be understood that any described process or steps within a described process may be combined with other disclosed processes or steps to form structures within the scope of the device of the present utility model. The exemplary structures and processes disclosed herein are for illustrative purposes and should not be construed as limiting.

[0117] It should also be understood that variations and modifications can be made to the above structures and methods without departing from the concept of the device of the present utility model, and it should also be understood that such concepts are intended to be covered by the appended claims unless the language of these claims clearly states otherwise.

[0118] The above description is to be regarded only as a description of the illustrated embodiments. Those skilled in the art and those who make or use the device may make modifications to the device. Therefore, it should be understood that the embodiments shown in the figures and described above are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of the device, the scope of which is defined by the appended claims interpreted in accordance with the principles of patent law, including the doctrine of equivalents.

Claims

1. An electro-optical device, characterized in that, Comprising: A first electro-optical element; A second electro-optical element, the second electro-optical element being connected in series with the first electro-optical element via a common node, the common node electrically connecting the first electro-optical element to the second electro-optical element; And A power supply circuit system including a first node and a second node, wherein the first node connects the power supply circuit system to the first electro-optical element, and wherein the second node connects the power supply circuit system to the second electro-optical element.

2. The electro-optical device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The common node includes a first common electrode shared by the first electro-optical element and the second electro-optical element.

3. The electro-optical device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The power supply circuit system includes a first power supply and a second power supply connected in series with the first power supply via a third node, the third node being connected to the first common electrode.

4. The electro-optical device according to claim 3, characterized in that, Further comprising: A controller operable to control the first power supply and the second power supply.

5. The electro-optical device according to any one of claims 2 to 4, characterized in that, Further comprising: A power regulation circuit system inserted between the first common electrode and one of the first node and the second node.

6. The electro-optical device according to claim 5, wherein, Further comprising: A controller operable to control the power regulation circuit system based on the potential of the first common electrode.

7. The electro-optical device according to any one of claims 2-6, characterized in that, Further comprising a control circuit system operable to: Monitor the potential of the first common electrode relative to one of the first node and the second node; and Control the power supply circuit system based on the potential.

8. The electro-optical device according to any one of claims 2-7, characterized in that, Further comprising: A third electro-optical element, the third electro-optical element being connected in series with the second electro-optical element via a second common electrode shared by the second electro-optical element and the third electro-optical element.

9. The electro-optical device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that, The first electro-optical element and the second electro-optical element are electrochromic units.

10. The electro-optical device according to any one of claims 1-9, characterized in that, The common node includes a plurality of electrodes interconnected via a conductive element.

11. The electro-optical device according to claim 10, wherein, Further comprising: An insulating barrier disposed between the first electro-optical element and the second electro-optical element, wherein the conductive element extends through the insulating layer to electrically connect the first electro-optical element to the second electro-optical element.

12. The electro-optical device according to claim 10, characterized in that, The common node is formed by a first electrode of the first electro-optical element and a second electrode of the electro-optical element electrically connected via the conductive element.

13. The electro-optical device according to claim 10, characterized in that, Further comprising: An electrolyte disposed between the first electrode and the second electrode, wherein the conductive element spans the electrolyte to electrically connect the first electrode to the second electrode.

14. An electro-optical device, characterized in that, Comprising: A first electro-optical element, the first electro-optical element including a first electrode spaced apart from at least one second electrode, a first cavity being defined between the first electrode and the at least one second electrode, the first cavity including a first electro-optical medium; A second electro-optical element, the second electro-optical element being connected in series with the first electro-optical element via the at least one second electrode, the second electro-optical element including a third electrode spaced apart from the at least one second electrode, a second cavity being defined between the third electrode and the at least one second electrode, the second cavity including a second electro-optical medium; and Wherein the at least one second electrode is electrically connected between the first electrode and the second electrode and forms a common node between the first electro-optical element and the second electro-optical element.

15. The electro-optical device according to claim 14, wherein, Further comprising: An electrical insulation barrier disposed between the first cavity and the second cavity, wherein the insulation barrier electrically insulates the first electro-optical medium from the second electro-optical medium, and the series connection provided by the at least one second electrode provides a series connection across the electrical insulation barrier.

16. The electro-optical device according to any one of claims 14-15, characterized in that, The at least one second electrode forms a first opposing electrode across the first cavity opposite the first electrode and a second opposing electrode across the second cavity opposite the second electrode, wherein the first opposing electrode and the second opposing electrode are conductively connected via a conductive element to form the series connection.

17. The electro-optical device according to any one of claims 14 to 16, characterized in that, The at least one second electrode is a continuous electrode formed on a substrate of the electro-optical device, wherein the second electrode is common to the first electro-optical element and the second electro-optical element, and wherein when a potential is applied across the first electrode and the third electrode, current is configured to flow via the at least one second electrode in a current path from the first electro-optical medium to the second electro-optical medium.

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