Electrochromic device and electrochromic system

Abstract

The utility model provides an electrochromic device and an electrochromic system, and relates to the technical field of electrochromism. The electrochromic device comprises a first conductive layer, an electrochromic layer and a second conductive layer which are sequentially stacked, the first conductive layer comprises a first detection area and a first working area which are insulated and isolated from each other; the second conductive layer comprises a second detection area and a second working area which are insulated and isolated from each other; the area of the first detection area is smaller than that of the first working area and at least part of the first detection area is in contact with the electrochromic layer, and the area of the second detection area is smaller than that of the second working area and at least part of the second detection area is in contact with the electrochromic layer; the first detection area and the second detection area are used for being electrically connected with two electrodes of a detection device respectively. Through the arrangement of the first detection area and the second detection area, the actual voltage of the electrochromic device can be obtained more accurately and more conveniently, and the situation that the voltage on the electrochromic device exceeds a safety range in the charging and discharging process is avoided.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of electrochromic technology, and in particular to an electrochromic device and an electrochromic system. Background Technology

[0002] Electrochromic technology is the phenomenon where the optical properties of a material (reflectivity, transmittance, absorptivity, etc.) undergo stable and reversible color changes under the influence of an applied electric field. This manifests as reversible changes in color and transparency. Devices containing electrochromic materials are called electrochromic devices.

[0003] Generally, the color-changing speed of an electrochromic device can be increased by increasing the voltage applied to it. However, excessive voltage can damage the device. To prevent the device voltage from exceeding its safe operating range, it is usually necessary to monitor the device voltage. One existing method for detecting the voltage of an electrochromic device is to directly read the voltage of the entire device through the battery cycling system. However, this method does not consider the voltage division of the wires and cannot directly obtain the voltage division data of the device. During charging and discharging, the system can only display the value of the applied voltage (i.e., the applied voltage) and cannot accurately reflect the actual voltage on the device. Although a non-contact probe of a potential probe microscope can be used in the laboratory to measure the potential distribution on the surface of the electrochromic device, thereby achieving high spatial resolution voltage measurement, this method suffers from problems such as expensive equipment, high environmental requirements, and complex operation, making it difficult to apply on a large scale.

[0004] To improve the above problems, the existing common voltage detection method for electrochromic devices is to infer the voltage division at the device through calculation. However, although this method takes into account the voltage division of the wire, the voltage value calculated is the overall voltage value of the device, and it still cannot know the voltage value at a certain point on the device, which makes it easy to have deviations in the dimming control of the electrochromic film. Utility Model Content

[0005] The purpose of this application is to provide an electrochromic device and an electrochromic system to alleviate the technical problem in the prior art where the voltage value calculated by the calculation method is the voltage value of the entire device rather than the voltage value at a certain point on the device, which leads to the deviation of the detection results.

[0006] In a first aspect, this application provides an electrochromic device, comprising a first conductive layer, an electrochromic layer, and a second conductive layer stacked sequentially.

[0007] The first conductive layer includes a first detection area and a first working area that are mutually insulated from each other;

[0008] The second conductive layer includes a second detection area and a second working area that are mutually insulated and isolated from each other.

[0009] The first working area and the second working area are used to receive external driving voltage to achieve color change of the electrochromic layer. The area of ​​the first detection area is smaller than the area of ​​the first working area, and at least part of the first detection area is in contact with the electrochromic layer. The area of ​​the second detection area is smaller than the area of ​​the second working area, and at least part of the second detection area is in contact with the electrochromic layer. The first detection area and the second detection area are used to be electrically connected to the two electrodes of the detection device, respectively.

[0010] In an optional embodiment, the first detection area includes a first detection part and a first lead part that are electrically connected to each other, and the first detection part is electrically connected to one of the electrodes of the detection device through the first lead part.

[0011] In an optional embodiment, the second detection area includes a second detection section and a second lead section that are electrically connected to each other, and the second detection section is electrically connected to another electrode of the detection device through the second lead section.

[0012] In an optional embodiment, the first detection part is in contact with the electrochromic layer, and a first insulating layer is provided between the first lead part and the electrochromic layer.

[0013] In an optional embodiment, the second detection part is in contact with the electrochromic layer, and a second insulating layer is provided between the second lead part and the electrochromic layer.

[0014] In an optional embodiment, the first detection portion is spaced apart from the edge of the first conductive layer, and the first lead portion extends from the first detection portion to the edge of the first conductive layer.

[0015] In an optional embodiment, the second detection portion is spaced apart from the edge of the second conductive layer, and the second lead portion extends from the second detection portion to the edge of the second conductive layer.

[0016] In an optional embodiment, the distance between the first detection part and the edge of the first conductive layer is 10mm-15mm.

[0017] In an optional embodiment, the distance between the second detection part and the edge of the second conductive layer is 10mm-15mm.

[0018] In an optional embodiment, the distance between the orthographic projection of the first detection unit on the electrochromic layer and the orthographic projection of the second detection unit on the electrochromic layer is 0mm-10mm.

[0019] In an optional embodiment, the orthographic projection of the first detection area onto the electrochromic layer at least partially overlaps with the orthographic projection of the second detection area onto the electrochromic layer.

[0020] In an optional embodiment, the electrochromic device includes a first lead structure and a second lead structure electrically connected to the first working area and the second working area, respectively. The first lead structure and the second lead structure extend from a first side of the electrochromic device, with the first lead portion and the second lead portion extending to the first side of the electrochromic device. The first lead structure and the second lead structure are used to receive a driving voltage, which is used to change the transmittance of the electrochromic device.

[0021] In an optional embodiment, the electrochromic device includes a second side arranged opposite to the first side, the distance between the first detection unit and the first side of the electrochromic device is smaller than the distance between the first detection unit and the second side of the electrochromic device, and the distance between the second detection unit and the first side of the electrochromic device is smaller than the distance between the first detection unit and the second side of the electrochromic device.

[0022] In an optional embodiment, the first conductive layer includes a first metal mesh, the second conductive layer includes a second metal mesh, and the first metal mesh and the second metal mesh are respectively in contact with both sides of the electrochromic layer;

[0023] The first metal mesh is provided with a first slit, which is used to divide the first metal mesh into a first detection area and a first working area that are isolated from each other;

[0024] The second metal mesh is provided with a second slit, which is used to divide the second metal mesh into a second detection area and a second working area that are isolated from each other.

[0025] Secondly, this application provides an electrochromic system, including a controller and an electrochromic device as described in any of the foregoing embodiments;

[0026] The controller includes a detection device for acquiring the voltage of the electrochromic device, and the controller is used to adjust the driving voltage provided to the electrochromic device based on the voltage of the electrochromic device.

[0027] The electrochromic device provided in this application forms a detection area and a working area by separating two conductive layers. The working area is used to receive a driving voltage to achieve color change of the electrochromic device. The detection area is used to monitor the membrane voltage on the electrochromic device during charging and discharging. Since at least a portion of the first detection area is in contact with one side of the electrochromic layer, the first detection area is electrically connected to the electrochromic layer. Since at least a portion of the second detection area is in contact with the other side of the electrochromic layer, the second detection area is also electrically connected to the electrochromic layer. Therefore, by connecting the two electrodes of a detection device such as a voltmeter to the first and second detection areas respectively, the membrane voltage at the first and second detection areas can be detected.

[0028] In this application, by setting up the first detection area and the second detection area, the actual voltage of the electrochromic device can be obtained more accurately and conveniently. This helps to prevent the voltage on the electrochromic device from exceeding the safe range during charging and discharging, and helps to extend the service life of the electrochromic device.

[0029] Meanwhile, since the voltage on the electrochromic device can be accurately obtained through the first and second detection areas, the color change of the electrochromic device can be controlled more precisely. Furthermore, under the condition that the voltage applied to the electrochromic device does not exceed the safe voltage of the electrochromic device, the voltage applied to the electrochromic device can be increased as much as possible, which is beneficial to improving the color change rate of the electrochromic device.

[0030] In addition, since the first detection area and the first working area are set on the same layer, and the second detection area and the second working area are set on the same layer, the electrochromic layer can be better bonded to the first conductive layer and the second conductive layer, reducing the risk of poor electrical connection and cracking of the electrochromic layer caused by the uniform thickness of the first conductive layer and the second conductive layer. Attached Figure Description

[0031] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the specific embodiments of this application or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the specific embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained from these drawings without creative effort.

[0032] Figure 1 A cross-sectional schematic diagram of the electrochromic device provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0033] Figure 2 A top perspective view of the electrochromic device provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0034] Figure 3 for Figure 2 Enlarged diagram of part A in the diagram;

[0035] Figure 4 for Figure 3 The L1-L1 sectional view in the middle;

[0036] Figure 5 for Figure 3 The L2-L2 sectional view in the image.

[0037] Icons: 1-Electrochromic layer; 11-Electrochromic material layer; 12-Electrolyte layer; 13-Ion storage layer; 101-First side; 102-Second side; 2-First conductive layer; 20-First detection area; 21-First working area; 22-First slit; 210-First detection section; 220-First lead section; 230-First insulating layer; 3-Second conductive layer; 30-Second detection area; 31-Second working area; 32-Second slit; 310-Second detection section; 320-Second lead section; 330-Second insulating layer; 4-First base layer; 5-Second base layer. Detailed Implementation

[0038] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of this application clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, and not all embodiments. The components of the embodiments of this application described and shown in the accompanying drawings can generally be arranged and designed in various different configurations.

[0039] Therefore, the following detailed description of the embodiments of this application provided in the accompanying drawings is not intended to limit the scope of the claimed application, but merely to illustrate selected embodiments of the application. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of this application without inventive effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0040] The following detailed description of some embodiments of this application is provided in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Unless otherwise specified, the following embodiments and features can be combined with each other.

[0041] like Figures 1-5 As shown, the electrochromic device provided in this embodiment includes a first conductive layer 2, an electrochromic layer 1, and a second conductive layer 3. The first conductive layer 2 includes a first detection area 20 and a first working area 21 that are mutually insulated from each other. The second conductive layer 3 includes a second detection area 30 and a second working area 31 that are mutually insulated from each other. The area of ​​the first detection area 20 is smaller than the area of ​​the first working area 21, and at least a portion of the first detection area 20 is in contact with the electrochromic layer 1. The area of ​​the second detection area 30 is smaller than the area of ​​the second working area 31, and at least a portion of the second detection area 30 is in contact with the electrochromic layer 1. The first detection area 20 and the second detection area 30 are used to be electrically connected to the two electrodes of the detection device, respectively.

[0042] The first working area 21 and the second working area 31 are used to receive external driving voltage to achieve color change of the electrochromic layer 1. The first detection area 20 is electrically connected to the electrochromic layer 1, and the second detection area 30 is connected to the electrochromic layer 1. The first detection area 20 and the second detection area 30 are used to monitor the film voltage on the electrochromic device during charging and discharging. The shape and size of the first detection area 20 and the second detection area 30 are not limited and can be selected according to actual needs.

[0043] In one embodiment, after the first conductive layer 2 and the second conductive layer 3 are formed, they can be broken or cut according to the preset position of the voltage test point to divide the first conductive layer 2 and the second conductive layer 3 into two insulating and isolated regions. The smaller region is the detection region, and the larger region is the working region. In this embodiment, the areas of the first detection region 20 and the second detection region 30 are small, which reduces the adverse effect of the detection region on the conductivity of the conductive layer. While obtaining the accurate voltage of the electrochromic device, the color uniformity of the electrochromic layer 1 is improved.

[0044] Then, the first conductive layer 2, the electrochromic layer 1, and the second conductive layer 3 are stacked sequentially, such that at least a portion of the first detection area 20 and at least a portion of the second detection area 30 are in contact with both sides of the electrochromic layer 1, and then the first detection area 20 and the second detection area 30 are electrically connected to the two electrodes of an external detection device such as a voltmeter through wires such as leads.

[0045] Since at least a portion of the first detection area 20 and at least a portion of the second detection area 30 are in contact with both sides of the electrochromic layer 1, the external detection device can detect the voltage between both sides of the electrochromic layer 1 at the voltage test point through the lead wire, thereby accurately detecting the voltage of the electrochromic device at the voltage test point, providing an accurate basis for subsequent electrochromic control.

[0046] It should be noted that the electrochromic layer 1 in this embodiment typically includes an electrochromic material layer 11, an electrolyte layer 12, and an ion storage layer 13 stacked sequentially. The electrochromic material layer 11 is bonded to the first conductive layer 2, and the ion storage layer 13 is bonded to the second conductive layer 3. Therefore, when at least a portion of the first detection area 20 and at least a portion of the second detection area 30 are in contact with both sides of the electrochromic layer 1, in the first detection area 20, the external detection device such as a voltmeter actually detects the voltage of the electrochromic material layer 11, i.e., the positive electrode voltage; in the second detection area 30, the external detection device such as a voltmeter actually detects the voltage of the ion storage layer 13, i.e., the negative electrode voltage.

[0047] Compared with the prior art, the electrochromic device provided in this embodiment, through the setting of the first detection area 20 and the second detection area 30, allows the two poles of an external detection device such as a voltmeter to be connected to the first detection area 20 and the second detection area 30, thereby obtaining the voltage between the contact point of the electrochromic device and the contact point of the electrochromic layer 1 in the first detection area 20 and the second detection area 30, which improves the convenience of detecting the voltage of the electrochromic device.

[0048] Furthermore, since the detection device directly acquires the voltage of the electrochromic layer 1 at the detection area, meaning it obtains the true and accurate membrane voltage on the electrochromic layer 1, it facilitates precise control of the color change of the electrochromic device based on this membrane voltage, thereby improving the color change speed of the electrochromic device. Simultaneously, it helps prevent the voltage on the electrochromic device from exceeding the safe range during charging and discharging, thus extending the lifespan of the electrochromic device.

[0049] It should be noted that when both the first conductive layer 2 and the second conductive layer 3 are formed using metal meshes, the structural characteristics of the metal mesh itself can be utilized to directly form two mutually insulated and isolated regions by breaking them apart, thereby effectively simplifying the formation process of the detection area and the working area. Therefore, in this embodiment, the first conductive layer 2 preferably includes a first metal mesh, and the second conductive layer 3 includes a second metal mesh. The first metal mesh and the second metal mesh are respectively in contact with both sides of the electrochromic layer 1. The first metal mesh has a first slit 22, which is used to divide the first metal mesh into a first detection area 20 and a first working area 21 that are mutually insulated and isolated. The second metal mesh has a second slit 32, which is used to divide the second metal mesh into a second detection area 30 and a second working area 31 that are mutually insulated and isolated. At this time, the first slit 22 and the second slit 32 are respectively the breaking points on the metal mesh. Thus, by cutting and breaking the metal mesh, the mutually insulated and isolated detection area and working area can be formed, thereby effectively simplifying the formation method of the first detection area 20 and the second detection area 30 and improving the manufacturing convenience of the electrochromic device.

[0050] In one embodiment, the electrochromic device further includes a first substrate layer 4 and a second substrate layer 5. In one embodiment, the first substrate layer 4 includes a plurality of staggered first grooves, into which a first metal mesh fills. The second substrate layer 5 includes a plurality of staggered second grooves, into which a second metal mesh fills.

[0051] In another embodiment, the first substrate layer 4, the first conductive layer 2, the electrochromic layer 1, the second conductive layer 3, and the second substrate layer 5 are sequentially stacked. The first conductive layer 2 and the second conductive layer 3 may also be indium tin oxide (ITO), aluminum zinc oxide (AZO), fluorine-doped tin oxide (FTO), etc.

[0052] In one embodiment, both the first substrate layer 4 and the second substrate layer 5 can be flexible transparent substrates made of optical-grade transparent materials, such as PET (polyester film), cyclic olefin copolymers, or cellulose triacetate.

[0053] To facilitate the electrical connection between the first detection area 20 and the external detection device, and the electrical connection between the second detection area 30 and the external detection device, such as Figure 3 and Figure 5 As shown, the first detection area 20 includes a first detection part 210 and a first lead part 220 that are electrically connected to each other. The first detection part 210 is electrically connected to one of the electrodes of the detection device through the first lead part 220. The second detection area 30 includes a second detection part 310 and a second lead part 320 that are electrically connected to each other. The second detection part 310 is electrically connected to the other electrode of the detection device through the second lead part 320.

[0054] The shapes and sizes of the first detection unit 210 and the first lead portion 220 can be designed according to actual needs. In one embodiment, the first detection unit 210 is a square, and exemplarily, the side length of the square can be 5 mm. In another embodiment, the first lead portion 220 can be a cuboid shape. Exemplarily, the width of the cuboid is less than 5 mm.

[0055] Similarly, the shape and size of the second detection section 310 and the second lead section 320 can be designed according to actual needs. In one embodiment, the second detection section 310 is a square, and exemplarily, the side length of the square can be 5 mm. In one embodiment, the second lead section 320 can be a cuboid shape. Exemplarily, the width of the cuboid is less than 5 mm.

[0056] In one embodiment, the first detection unit 210 is in contact with the electrochromic layer 1, that is, the first detection unit 210 is electrically connected to the electrochromic layer 1. The second detection unit 310 is in contact with the electrochromic layer 1, that is, the second detection unit 310 is electrically connected to the electrochromic layer 1. In this embodiment, one electrode of the external detection device can be electrically connected to one side of the electrochromic layer 1 (which can be the electrochromic material layer 11) in sequence through the first lead 220 and the first detection unit 210. The other electrode of the external detection device can be electrically connected to the other side of the electrochromic layer 1 (which can be the ion storage layer 13) in sequence through the second lead 320 and the second detection unit 310, thereby obtaining the voltage of the electrochromic layer 1 between the first detection unit 210 and the second detection unit 310.

[0057] In one embodiment, the first detection portion 210 is spaced apart from the edge of the first conductive layer 2, and the first lead portion 220 extends from the first detection portion 210 to the edge of the first conductive layer 2; the second detection portion 310 is spaced apart from the edge of the second conductive layer 3, and the second lead portion 320 extends from the second detection portion 310 to the edge of the second conductive layer 3.

[0058] Specifically, the first detection section 210 is spaced apart from the first side 101 of the electrochromic device, and the first lead section 220 extends from the first detection section 210 to the first side 101 so as to facilitate the connection of the first lead section 220 with an external detection device.

[0059] Since the film voltage at the edge of the electrochromic device is unstable, if the first detection unit 210 is too close to the edge of the electrochromic device, the measured film voltage will be inaccurate. Therefore, in this embodiment, it is preferable that the first detection unit 210 and the edge of the electrochromic device have a gap.

[0060] Similarly, the first side 101 of the electrochromic device of the second detection section 310 is spaced apart, and the second lead section 320 extends from the second detection section 310 to the first side 101 so as to facilitate the connection of the second lead section 320 with an external detection device.

[0061] Since the film voltage at the edge of the electrochromic device is unstable, if the second detection unit 310 is too close to the edge of the electrochromic device, the measured film voltage will be inaccurate. Therefore, in this embodiment, it is preferable that the second detection unit 310 and the edge of the electrochromic device have a gap.

[0062] To prevent the first lead portion 220 from contacting the electrochromic layer 1 and the second lead portion 320 from contacting the electrochromic layer 1, thus affecting the voltage detection results, such as Figure 5 As shown, a first insulating layer 230 is provided between the first lead portion 220 and the electrochromic layer 1; a second insulating layer 330 is provided between the second lead portion 320 and the electrochromic layer 1.

[0063] The first insulating layer 230 and the second insulating layer 330 can be formed by coating, bonding or other methods.

[0064] In one embodiment, the sum of the thicknesses of the first insulating layer 230 and the first lead portion 220 is equal to the thickness of the first working area 21 and the thickness of the first detection portion 210. The sum of the thicknesses of the second insulating layer 330 and the second lead portion 320 is equal to the thickness of the second working area 31 and the thickness of the second detection portion 310.

[0065] Since the voltage at a voltage test point needs to be detected by a first detection unit 210 and a second detection unit 310 working together, this embodiment preferably arranges the first detection unit 210 and the second detection unit 310 in pairs. That is, the number of the first detection unit 210 and the second detection unit 310 is the same, and a first detection unit 210 and a second detection unit 310 form a detection group. At this time, a detection group is used to detect the voltage at a voltage test point.

[0066] There is no limit to the number of detection groups; multiple detection groups can be set as needed. When there are multiple detection groups, in order to take into account the voltage of the inner region of each side of the electrochromic device, this embodiment preferably distributes multiple detection groups at intervals along the circumference of the electrochromic device.

[0067] When the detection group is positioned near the edge of the electrochromic device, the voltage detected by the external detection device will be the device's maximum voltage. If the actual detected maximum voltage is within a safe voltage range, the voltage at other locations on the device will also be within a safe voltage range. Therefore, positioning the detection group near the edge of the electrochromic device facilitates control over the voltage applied to it, effectively preventing damage during the color-changing process due to excessive voltage.

[0068] To ensure the detection group is positioned close to the edge of the electrochromic device, in this embodiment, the distance between the first detection unit 210 and the edge of the first conductive layer 2 is preferably 10mm-15mm. Specifically, when the first detection unit 210 is located near the first side 101, the vertical distance between the first detection unit 210 and the first side 101 is 10mm-15mm. The distance between the second detection unit 310 and the edge of the second conductive layer 3 is also 10mm-15mm. Specifically, when the second detection unit 310 is located near the first side 101, the vertical distance between the second detection unit 310 and the first side 101 is 10mm-15mm.

[0069] Furthermore, since electrochromic devices have a black-edged printing area after completion, they are typically divided into a non-visible area at the edge and a visible area inside the non-visible area. The width of the non-visible area is usually between 15mm and 50mm. Therefore, when the distance between the first detection unit 210 and the edge of the first conductive layer 2 is 10mm-15mm, and the distance between the second detection unit 310 and the edge of the second conductive layer 3 is 10mm-15mm, the detection group can be hidden within the non-visible area. This prevents the detection group from affecting the overall performance and appearance of the electrochromic device, effectively maintaining its original photoelectric performance and ensuring product quality.

[0070] Furthermore, to ensure that the burnt area that may occur during voltage detection is within the non-visible area, this embodiment preferably places both the first detection unit 210 and the second detection unit 310 within the non-visible area at a distance of 5mm-10mm from the edge of the non-visible area and the visible area.

[0071] It should be noted that the location of the detection group is not limited to the position near the edge of the electrochromic device. The detection group can be set at any position on the electrochromic device according to the detection requirements. In this case, the voltage of different areas on the electrochromic device can be measured, which helps to study and optimize the voltage distribution on the electrochromic device, improve the uniformity of electrochromism, and provide data support for product design and process improvement.

[0072] In this embodiment, the distance between the orthographic projection of the first detection unit 210 onto the electrochromic layer 1 and the orthographic projection of the second detection unit 310 onto the electrochromic layer 1 is 0mm-10mm. This arrangement makes the positions of the first detection unit 210 and the second detection unit 310 symmetrical or as symmetrical as possible, thereby effectively reducing voltage detection deviation and helping to improve the accuracy of voltage detection results.

[0073] Furthermore, such as Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, in this embodiment, the orthographic projection of the first detection area 20 onto the electrochromic layer 1 preferably overlaps at least partially with the orthographic projection of the second detection area 30 onto the electrochromic layer 1. In one embodiment, the orthographic projection of the first detection area 20 onto the electrochromic layer 1 completely overlaps with the orthographic projection of the second detection area 30 onto the electrochromic layer 1.

[0074] When the orthographic projection of the first detection area 20 onto the electrochromic layer 1 and the orthographic projection of the second detection area 30 onto the electrochromic layer 1 at least partially overlap, the positions of the first detection area 20 and the second detection area 30 can be symmetrical or as symmetrical as possible. The more symmetrical the positions of the first detection area 20 and the second detection area 30, the better the accuracy of the external detection device in detecting the voltage on the electrochromic device, and the more reliable the voltage detection results.

[0075] The electrochromic device provided in this embodiment may further include a first lead structure and a second lead structure that are electrically connected to the first working area 21 and the second working area 31 respectively. The first lead structure and the second lead structure are led out from the first side 101 of the electrochromic device, and the first lead portion 220 and the second lead portion 320 extend to the first side of the electrochromic device.

[0076] The first working area 21 is connected to an external power supply via a first lead-out structure, and the second working area 31 is connected to an external power supply via a second lead-out structure. The external power supply can be a controller.

[0077] The first and second lead-out structures can be made of copper foil or other lead wires, which are used to connect the first working area 21 and the second working area 31 to an external power supply.

[0078] Since the first lead-out structure and the second lead-out structure are led out from the first side 101 of the electrochromic device, and the first lead portion 220 and the second lead portion 320 extend to the first side of the electrochromic device, the first lead-out structure, the second lead-out structure, the first lead portion 220 and the second lead portion 320 are all located on the same side of the electrochromic device. At this time, the lead layout is more reasonable and it is convenient to perform voltage detection operation.

[0079] Furthermore, the electrochromic device in this embodiment also includes a second side 102 arranged opposite to the first side 101. The distance between the first detection unit 210 and the first side 101 of the electrochromic device is smaller than the distance between the first detection unit 210 and the second side 102 of the electrochromic device. The distance between the second detection unit 310 and the first side 101 of the electrochromic device is smaller than the distance between the first detection unit 210 and the second side 102 of the electrochromic device.

[0080] It should be noted that the locations of the first and second lead-out structures constitute the lead-out area. Since the film voltage on the electrochromic device is higher closer to the lead-out area, with both the first lead portion 220 and the second lead portion 320 located on the same side of the electrochromic device, the distance between the first detection portion 210 and the first side 101 is smaller than the distance between the first detection portion 210 and the second side 102, and the distance between the second detection portion 310 and the first side 101 is smaller than the distance between the second detection portion 310 and the second side 102. This allows the first and second detection portions 210 and 310 to be positioned close to the lead-out area, which is beneficial for obtaining the maximum film voltage on the electrochromic device. When controlling the film voltage of the electrochromic device, as long as the film voltage at the first detection portion 210 and the second detection portion 310 is controlled within the safe voltage range, the voltage at other locations on the electrochromic device will also be within the safe voltage range. In this embodiment, placing the first detection unit 210 and the second detection unit 310 close to the lead-out side of the first lead-out structure and the second lead-out structure helps to reduce the number of the first detection unit 210 and the second detection unit 310 and reduce costs.

[0081] It should also be noted that during the voltage detection process of the electrochromic device provided in this embodiment, the voltage value change can be monitored in real time by an external detection device, so as to monitor and adjust the applied voltage in a timely manner, thereby ensuring that the electrochromic device always operates within the optimal voltage range. For example, when the actual voltage on the electrochromic device exceeds the set protection voltage during charging, the applied voltage is immediately reduced; or when the voltage is lower than the discharge protection voltage during discharging, the applied voltage is immediately increased to ensure that the diaphragm operates within a safe and efficient voltage range.

[0082] To facilitate timely monitoring and adjustment of the applied voltage to ensure that the electrochromic device always operates within the optimal voltage range, this embodiment also provides a protection and control method for the electrochromic device. The external detection device used in this method is a controller, which includes a voltmeter, a voltage regulation module, a microcontroller unit (MCU), and a power supply. The voltmeter is equipped with an analog-to-digital converter (ADC). In addition, the first lead portion 220 and the second lead portion 320 are respectively connected to the voltmeter of the controller. The first working area 21 and the second working area 31 are respectively electrically connected to the voltage regulation module of the controller through the first lead structure and the second lead structure.

[0083] The ADC is used to convert the analog voltage signals from the first lead section 220 and the second lead section 320 into digital signals for processing by the MCU. The MCU is used to run control algorithms, compare voltage values, and send control commands. The power supply is used to provide adjustable positive and negative voltages to the voltage regulation module. Based on the diaphragm voltage obtained by the voltmeter, the MCU sends an adjustment signal to the voltage regulation module, and the voltage regulation module supplies the adjusted driving voltage to the electrochromic device for charging and discharging.

[0084] The above-mentioned electrochromic device protection and control method includes a threshold setting step, a charging step, and a discharging step performed sequentially.

[0085] The threshold setting step involves: presetting the upper limit of charging voltage and the lower limit of discharging voltage in the controller, and determining the upper limit of charging voltage and the lower limit of discharging voltage for the detection group.

[0086] In the threshold setting step, the upper limit of the charging voltage and the lower limit of the discharging voltage of the detection group are related to the electrochemical characteristics of the electrochromic device. The safe charging / discharging voltage of the electrochromic device is defined as the range between the upper limit of the charging voltage and the lower limit of the discharging voltage. For example, the upper limit of the charging voltage of the detection group is +1.3V, and the lower limit of the discharging voltage is -0.6V. It should be noted that the preset voltage thresholds on different controllers may be different. In this embodiment, the preset upper limit of the charging voltage in the controller can be +10V, and the lower limit of the discharging voltage can be -8V.

[0087] The charging process includes:

[0088] 1. Charging process: The electrochromic device is charged by applying a positive voltage through the controller; the initial applied positive voltage can be 10V.

[0089] II. Voltage monitoring process: The detection device (voltmeter) acquires the voltage at the first detection section 210 and the second detection section 310 in real time through the first lead section 220 and the second lead section 320, and transmits it to the MCU of the controller through the ADC;

[0090] III. Data Processing: Based on the actual voltage detected in real time by the detection device, the MCU adjusts and determines the driving voltage supplied to the electrochromic device. The voltage regulation module outputs the adjusted driving voltage to the electrochromic device. For example, the control method is as follows:

[0091] The controller applies an initial set voltage to the electrochromic device;

[0092] The detection device detects the actual voltage at the first detection unit 210 and the second detection unit 310 in real time.

[0093] The MCU determines whether the voltage at the first detection unit 210 and the second detection unit 310 is less than +1.3V. If so, it maintains or appropriately increases the current voltage to accelerate the color change speed. If not, it reduces the driving voltage.

[0094] Furthermore, the MCU determines whether the voltage at the first detection unit 210 and the second detection unit 310 is less than 1.2V. If so, it acquires and determines the voltage change rate. If the voltage change rate is greater than 0.1V / s and is maintained for more than 3 seconds, it determines whether the charging applied voltage is greater than or equal to 7V. If so, it maintains the charging voltage unchanged. If the charging voltage is less than 7V but greater than 1.4V, it gradually increases the charging voltage in steps of 0.3V to accelerate the color change speed.

[0095] When the voltage at the first detection unit 210 and the second detection unit 310 is greater than 1.2V and less than 1.3V: restore the voltage before the charging voltage was increased to protect the electrochromic device;

[0096] If the voltage at the first detection unit 210 and the second detection unit 310 is ≥ +1.3V, the following process is performed: the voltage regulation module reduces the output drive voltage to prevent overvoltage of the electrochromic device.

[0097] Furthermore, during data processing, to allow for reaction time and prevent the membrane voltage from exceeding the threshold, the voltage adjustment module adjusts the voltage step size when the voltage at the first detection unit 210 and the second detection unit 310 exceeds 1.28V. Specifically, if the applied charging voltage is 5-10V, the voltage reduction step size is 2.5V; if the applied charging voltage is 2.5-5V, the voltage reduction step size is 0.5V; and if the applied charging voltage is 1.4-2.5V, the voltage reduction step size is 0.2V. It should be noted that the applied charging voltage should not be lower than 1.4V. At this point, the applied charging voltage can be maintained at 1.4V until the electrochromic membrane reaches the required transmittance.

[0098] The discharge steps include:

[0099] I. Discharge process: The electrochromic device is discharged by applying a reverse voltage through the MCU controller; the initial applied reverse voltage can be -8V;

[0100] II. Voltage monitoring process: The detection device (voltmeter) acquires the voltage at the first detection section 210 and the second detection section 310 in real time through the first lead section 220 and the second lead section 320, and transmits it to the MCU of the controller through the ADC;

[0101] III. Data Processing: Based on the actual voltage detected in real time by the detection device, the MCU adjusts and determines the driving voltage supplied to the electrochromic film. The voltage regulation module outputs the adjusted driving voltage to the electrochromic device. For example, the control method is shown below;

[0102] The controller applies an initial set voltage to the electrochromic device;

[0103] The detection device detects the actual voltage at the first detection unit 210 and the second detection unit 310 in real time.

[0104] The processor determines whether the voltage at the first detection unit 210 and the second detection unit 310 is greater than -0.6V. If so, it maintains or appropriately reduces the current voltage to accelerate fading. If not, it increases the driving voltage to prevent undervoltage.

[0105] Furthermore: The MCU determines whether the voltage value at the detection tank is greater than -0.6V. If so, it determines whether the voltage change rate is less than -0.1V / s and maintained for more than 3 seconds. If so, if the discharge voltage is less than -5V, the charging voltage is kept constant. If the discharge voltage is greater than -5V and less than -0.8V, the discharge voltage is gradually reduced in steps of -0.2V to accelerate the color change speed.

[0106] When the voltage at the first detection unit 210 and the second detection unit 310 is less than -0.5V: restore the voltage before the discharge voltage was reduced to protect the electrochromic film;

[0107] If the voltage at the first detection unit 210 and the second detection unit 310 is ≤-0.6V, the following process is performed: the voltage regulation module increases the output drive voltage to prevent the electrochromic device from being under-voltage (over-discharged).

[0108] Furthermore, during data processing, to allow for reaction time and prevent the membrane voltage from exceeding the threshold, when the voltage at the first detection unit 210 and the second detection unit 310 is less than -0.58V, the voltage adjustment module adjusts the step size of the driving voltage to increase the driving voltage. Specifically, if the applied discharge voltage is -8 to -4V, the voltage adjustment step is 2V; if the applied discharge voltage is -4 to -1.5V, the voltage increase step is 0.5V; and if the applied discharge voltage is -1.5 to -0.8V, the voltage increase step is 0.2V. It should be noted that the applied discharge voltage should not exceed -0.8V. At this point, the applied discharge voltage can be maintained at -0.8V until the electrochromic membrane reaches the required transmittance.

[0109] Furthermore, the above method may also include a continuous feedback control step, which can be performed simultaneously with the charging step or the discharging step. The continuous feedback control step includes a cyclic monitoring process and a dynamic adjustment process. Specifically, the cyclic monitoring process utilizes the feedback control circuitry and the controller to continuously monitor the device voltage to ensure that the device voltage remains within a safe range. The dynamic adjustment process utilizes the feedback control circuitry and the controller to continuously adjust the power supply output based on the real-time device voltage. When the electrochromic device achieves the expected color-changing effect or the controller receives a stop command, the controller stops the charging and discharging of the electrochromic device.

[0110] As can be seen, the electrochromic device provided in this embodiment, by employing the above method, can monitor and adjust the applied voltage on the electrochromic device in real time during voltage detection. This not only ensures that the electrochromic device always operates within the optimal voltage range, effectively improving the electrochromic speed and efficiency, optimizing the electrochromic process, and enhancing the user experience, but also allows for timely detection of voltage anomalies, preventing damage to the diaphragm caused by overcharging or over-discharging. This effectively enhances the safety and reliability of the electrochromic device, extends the product's lifespan, and increases user trust in the product. Furthermore, this electrochromic device can be integrated with a controller, facilitating the controller to receive the device voltage detection results in real time, thereby achieving intelligent and automated control of the electrochromic process. This effectively improves the product's functionality and added value, meeting the market demand for intelligent products.

[0111] This embodiment also provides an electrochromic system, which includes a controller and the aforementioned electrochromic device; the controller includes a detection device for acquiring the voltage of the electrochromic device, and the controller is used to adjust the driving voltage provided to the electrochromic device based on the voltage of the electrochromic device.

[0112] The controller, as described above, comprises a voltmeter, a voltage regulation module, a microcontroller unit, and a power supply. The detection device is the voltmeter. This controller, combined with the aforementioned electrochromic device protection and control method, can precisely control the electrochromic process by adjusting the driving voltage supplied to the electrochromic film based on the real-time voltage detected by the detection device.

[0113] Since the electrochromic system provided in this embodiment includes the aforementioned electrochromic device, the electrochromic system and the aforementioned electrochromic device can solve the same technical problems and achieve the same technical effects, and will not be described in detail here.

[0114] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of this application, and are not intended to limit them. Although this application has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some or all of the technical features therein. Such modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application.

Claims

1. An electrochromic device, characterized in that, It includes a first conductive layer (2), an electrochromic layer (1), and a second conductive layer (3) stacked sequentially; The first conductive layer (2) includes a first detection area (20) and a first working area (21) that are mutually insulated and isolated from each other; The second conductive layer (3) includes a second detection area (30) and a second working area (31) that are mutually insulated and isolated from each other; the first working area (21) and the second working area (31) are used to receive external driving voltage to achieve color change of the electrochromic layer (1); The area of ​​the first detection area (20) is smaller than the area of ​​the first working area (21), and at least a portion of the first detection area (20) is in contact with the electrochromic layer (1). The area of ​​the second detection area (30) is smaller than the area of ​​the second working area (31), and at least a portion of the second detection area (30) is in contact with the electrochromic layer (1). The first detection area (20) and the second detection area are used to be electrically connected to the two electrodes of the detection device, respectively.

2. The electrochromic device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first detection area (20) includes a first detection part (210) and a first lead part (220) that are electrically connected to each other. The first detection part (210) is electrically connected to one of the electrodes of the detection device through the first lead part (220). The second detection area (30) includes a second detection part (310) and a second lead part (320) that are electrically connected to each other. The second detection part (310) is electrically connected to another electrode of the detection device through the second lead part (320).

3. The electrochromic device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The first detection unit (210) is in contact with the electrochromic layer (1), and a first insulating layer (230) is provided between the first lead part (220) and the electrochromic layer (1); The second detection part (310) is in contact with the electrochromic layer (1), and a second insulating layer (330) is provided between the second lead part (320) and the electrochromic layer (1).

4. The electrochromic device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The first detection part (210) is spaced apart from the edge of the first conductive layer (2), and the first lead part (220) extends from the first detection part (210) to the edge of the first conductive layer (2); The second detection part (310) is spaced apart from the edge of the second conductive layer (3), and the second lead part (320) extends from the second detection part (310) to the edge of the second conductive layer (3).

5. The electrochromic device according to claim 4, characterized in that, The distance between the first detection part (210) and the edge of the first conductive layer (2) is 10mm-15mm, and the distance between the second detection part (310) and the edge of the second conductive layer (3) is 10mm-15mm.

6. The electrochromic device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The distance between the orthographic projection of the first detection unit (210) on the electrochromic layer (1) and the orthographic projection of the second detection unit (310) on the electrochromic layer (1) is 0mm-10mm.

7. The electrochromic device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The orthographic projection of the first detection area (20) onto the electrochromic layer (1) at least partially overlaps with the orthographic projection of the second detection area (30) onto the electrochromic layer (1).

8. The electrochromic device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The electrochromic device includes a first lead structure and a second lead structure electrically connected to the first working area (21) and the second working area (31) respectively. The first lead structure and the second lead structure are led out from the first side (101) of the electrochromic device, and the first lead portion (220) and the second lead portion (320) extend to the first side (101) of the electrochromic device.

9. The electrochromic device according to claim 8, characterized in that, The electrochromic device includes a second side (102) arranged opposite to the first side (101). The distance between the first detection unit (210) and the first side (101) of the electrochromic device is smaller than the distance between the first detection unit (210) and the second side (102) of the electrochromic device. The distance between the second detection unit (310) and the first side (101) of the electrochromic device is smaller than the distance between the first detection unit (210) and the second side (102) of the electrochromic device.

10. The electrochromic device according to any one of claims 1-9, characterized in that, The first conductive layer (2) includes a first metal mesh, and the second conductive layer (3) includes a second metal mesh. The first metal mesh and the second metal mesh are respectively in contact with both sides of the electrochromic layer (1). The first metal mesh is provided with a first slit (22), which divides the first metal mesh into a first detection area (20) and a first working area (21); The second metal mesh is provided with a second slit (32), which divides the second metal mesh into a second detection area (30) and a second working area (31).

11. An electrochromic system, characterized in that, Includes a controller and an electrochromic device as described in any one of claims 1-10; The controller includes a detection device for acquiring the voltage of the electrochromic device, and the controller is used to adjust the driving voltage provided to the electrochromic device based on the voltage of the electrochromic device.

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