Electrochromic diaphragm and end product

Abstract

This application provides an electrochromic film and a terminal product. The electrochromic film includes: a film body with two opposing long sides and two opposing short sides, wherein multiple first electrodes and multiple second electrodes are formed on the edges of the long sides of the film body, the multiple first electrodes having the same polarity and the multiple second electrodes having the same polarity; a first lead-out assembly including a first busbar and a first lead-out electrode disposed on the first busbar, the first busbar being connected to all the multiple first electrodes; and a second lead-out assembly including a second busbar and a second lead-out electrode disposed on the second busbar, the second busbar being connected to all the multiple second electrodes. The electrochromic film and terminal product provided in this application, by setting electrodes only on the long sides of the electrochromic film, achieve rapid color change of the film while avoiding corner failure of the film, ensuring the uniformity of the film's color change and the lifespan of the film.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application belongs to the field of electrochromic technology, and particularly relates to an electrochromic film and its end product. Background Technology

[0002] Electrochromism is a technology that causes electrochromic materials to undergo reversible and stable coloring or fading under the influence of an external voltage. Typically, a busbar is placed on an electrochromic film, connecting the film to an external power source. Applying a voltage across the electrochromic material causes the material to change color in response to variations in the voltage.

[0003] During the operation of electrochromic devices, electric field superposition occurs in the corner areas. Repeated charge-discharge cycles can easily lead to electric field concentration in the corners of the film, resulting in a significantly higher electric field at the corners compared to the center. This uneven electric field distribution causes the following problems: the color at the corners of the film is inconsistent with the color of other areas, compromising optical uniformity; after multiple cycles, overcharging or over-discharging in the corner areas can easily cause corner failure, leading to device damage and affecting the lifespan of the electrochromic device. Utility Model Content

[0004] In view of this, embodiments of this application provide an electrochromic film and a terminal product to solve the technical problem that overcharging or over-discharging in the corner areas of existing electrochromic films can easily cause corner failure.

[0005] In a first aspect, embodiments of this application provide an electrochromic film, comprising:

[0006] The membrane body includes two oppositely arranged long sides and two oppositely arranged short sides. Multiple first electrodes and multiple second electrodes are formed on the edges of the long sides of the membrane body. The multiple first electrodes are of the same polarity, and the multiple second electrodes are of the same polarity.

[0007] A first lead-out component, comprising a first busbar and first lead-out electrodes disposed on the first busbar, wherein the first busbar is connected to a plurality of the first electrodes; and

[0008] The second lead-out component includes a second busbar and a second lead-out electrode disposed on the second busbar, wherein the second busbar is connected to a plurality of the second electrodes.

[0009] By placing electrodes only along the long sides of the electrochromic film, the film changes color from the two long sides towards the center, effectively avoiding electric field superposition in the corner areas of the electrochromic film, thus ensuring the optical uniformity of the entire electrochromic film. Furthermore, even after multiple charge-discharge cycles, the corner areas of the film do not experience overcharging or over-discharging, effectively avoiding the problem of corner failure and thus extending the lifespan of the electrochromic device. By connecting a first busbar to multiple first electrodes of the same polarity, and a second busbar to multiple second electrodes of the same polarity, and then connecting a first lead electrode to the first busbar and a second lead electrode to the second busbar, only one pair of lead electrodes is needed to connect to the external circuit, i.e., to apply voltage to the film body. This saves space, facilitates wiring between the external circuit and the electrochromic film, and simplifies the design of the lead electrodes.

[0010] Optionally, the short side of the electrochromic film includes a first short side and a second short side, the length of the first short side being greater than the length of the second short side, and the first lead electrode and the second lead electrode being located on the side of either of the long sides closer to the first short side. By placing the lead electrode on the busbar of the long side of the film closer to the first short side, it is possible to avoid further widening of the color change rate between the first and second short sides due to the voltage drop of the busbar, and to avoid overcharging and over-discharging due to the second short side changing color too quickly, thereby improving the uniformity of the overall color change of the electrochromic film.

[0011] Optionally, the connection point between the first lead-out electrode and the first bus bar is A1, and A1 is located on the first electrode closest to the first short side on the long side;

[0012] The connection point between the second lead-out electrode and the second busbar is A2, and A2 is located on the second electrode closest to the first short side on the long side. This avoids the lead-out electrode being too far from the first short side, facilitating the connection between the trace and external circuitry.

[0013] Optionally, the distance between the first electrode closest to the second short side and the second short side is L3, the length of the first electrode is b1, the length of the second electrode is b2, and L3 satisfies the following relationship: L3 > 2*(b1 + b2). Optionally, the distance between the second electrode closest to the second short side and the second short side is L4, the length of the first electrode is b1, the length of the second electrode is b2, and L4 satisfies the following relationship: L4 > 2*(b1 + b2). By not placing electrodes in the local area near the long side of the second short side, the phenomenon of electric field superposition in the corner area of ​​the film is further avoided, making the color change of the areas near the first short side and the areas near the second short side more consistent, which is beneficial to improving the optical uniformity of the film.

[0014] Optionally, the long side of the electrochromic film includes a first long side and a second long side, and the first busbar is located at the edge of one side of the electrochromic film and passes through the first long side, the first short side and the second long side in sequence.

[0015] The second busbar is located at the edge of the electrochromic film on the other side and passes sequentially through the first long side, the second short side, and the second long side. This makes the film more symmetrical and aesthetically pleasing, and avoids the situation where busbars are placed on both the front and back of the same short side, resulting in uneven thickness on the two short sides.

[0016] Optionally, the electrochromic film can be shaped like a fan-shaped ring or an isosceles trapezoid. This expands the application scenarios for the electrochromic film.

[0017] Optionally, when the electrochromic film is a fan-shaped annular film, the length of the long side is L1, the average length of the chords corresponding to the two arc-shaped short sides is L2, and the lengths of the two arc-shaped short sides are both less than 1.4m. L1 and L2 satisfy: L1 / L2≥2. Optionally, when the shape of the electrochromic film is an isosceles trapezoid, the length of the long side is L1, the average length of the two short sides is L2, and the lengths of the two short sides are both less than 1.4m. L1 and L2 satisfy: L1 / L2≥2. In this way, the electrochromic film can achieve rapid color change while avoiding failure at the four corners of the film, ensuring uniform color change and extending the film's lifespan.

[0018] Optionally, the membrane body includes a first base layer, a first conductive layer, an electrochromic layer, a second conductive layer, and a second base layer stacked sequentially.

[0019] The electrochromic film has multiple first grooves on one side of its edge, exposing a portion of the second conductive layer to form multiple first electrodes. The electrochromic film has multiple second grooves on the other side of its edge, exposing a portion of the first conductive layer to form multiple second electrodes. The first grooves and second grooves are staggered and located on the long side of the electrochromic film.

[0020] The first busbar is located on the side of the first substrate layer away from the first conductive layer, and the second busbar is located on the side of the second substrate layer away from the second conductive layer. By providing lead-out electrodes in the electrochromic film, an electrical connection is achieved between the lead-out electrodes and the busbars. Therefore, an external power source can be connected to the busbars through the lead-out electrodes, thereby conducting the voltage or current provided by the external power source to the conductive layer. This creates an electric field or potential difference on both sides of the electrochromic layer, causing the electrochromic film to exhibit coloring or fading phenomena. Furthermore, by placing the lead-out electrodes on the inner side of the busbars, such as the side of the busbars closer to the conductive layer, the busbars can limit the lead-out electrodes, improving the stability and reliability of the electrical connection between the lead-out electrodes and the busbars. This prevents the lead-out electrodes from detaching under external force, thereby enhancing the stability and reliability of the electrical connection between the electrochromic film and the external power source.

[0021] Optionally, the first busbar is further covered with a first adhesive layer, the side of the first adhesive layer near the middle of the electrochromic film being connected to the first base layer, and the side of the first adhesive layer near the edge of the electrochromic film being connected to the second conductive layer.

[0022] The second busbar is also covered with a second adhesive layer. The side of the second adhesive layer near the middle of the electrochromic film is connected to the second base layer, and the side of the second adhesive layer near the edge of the electrochromic film is connected to the first conductive layer. By covering the busbar with an adhesive layer, and having the side of the adhesive layer near the center of the electrochromic film connected to the first substrate layer (attached to the first substrate), and the side of the first adhesive layer near the edge of the electrochromic film connected to the second conductive layer, the adhesive layer can limit and fix the busbar at the corresponding groove, thereby improving the stability of the connection between the busbar and the second conductive layer in the first groove. That is, the adhesive layer can further improve the stability of the busbar at the edge of the electrochromic film. Moreover, the adhesive layer forms an insulating barrier layer on the surface of the busbar, which can prevent polyvinyl butyral (PVB) from entering the electrochromic film through the first groove in the subsequent lamination process and reacting with the electrochromic material layer. At the same time, it can also prevent external moisture, dust or other conductive substances from entering the interior of the electrochromic film through the first groove.

[0023] Optionally, the first busbar is further covered with a first adhesive layer, the side of which near the center of the electrochromic film is connected to the first substrate layer. The second busbar is further covered with a second adhesive layer, the side of which near the center of the electrochromic film is connected to the second substrate layer. Both the first and second adhesive layers extend outward to cover the edge of the electrochromic film. Thus, neither the first nor the second adhesive layer is adhered to the conductive layer; instead, they extend outward to the edge of the electrochromic film and bond together. This design better prevents moisture and dust from entering the interior of the electrochromic film, thereby protecting the edge of the film.

[0024] Optionally, a first notch is formed at the edge of one short side of the electrochromic film, exposing the second conductive layer to form a first step. A third adhesive layer is disposed at the first step, and the third adhesive layer is sequentially connected to the first base layer and the second conductive layer. Optionally, a second notch is formed at the edge of the other short side of the electrochromic film, exposing the first conductive layer to form a second step. A fourth adhesive layer is disposed at the second step, and the fourth adhesive layer is sequentially connected to the second base layer and the first conductive layer. By forming a notch and a step on the short side without electrodes, space is provided for the thermal expansion of PVB during the subsequent lamination of the electrochromic film and glass. The adhesive layer at the step can prevent demolding and also form a slope that guides the thermal expansion of PVB. Furthermore, the presence of the adhesive layer can prevent PVB from directly squeezing the edge of the film, thus protecting the edge of the film. Furthermore, the two short sides of the membrane are cut in half, one short side is cut in half on the front and the other short side is cut in half on the back, forming steps. When the busbar passes through the short side of the membrane edge, the overall thickness of the electrochromic membrane will not be too thick due to the step formed by cutting the short side in half; and one busbar passes through the first short side and the other busbar passes through the second short side, which will not cause the membrane edge area to be too thick.

[0025] Optionally, two of the first lead-out electrode and two of the second lead-out electrode are provided, wherein one of the first lead-out electrode and one of the second lead-out electrode are paired together as a group;

[0026] The two first lead electrodes are spaced at least one length of the first groove, and the two second lead electrodes are spaced at least one length of the second groove. Generally, an electrochromic membrane only needs one pair of lead electrodes for connection to an external power supply circuit. However, machine or operator errors may sometimes damage the lead electrodes; therefore, an additional pair of lead electrodes is provided, with one pair as a backup. When one pair of lead electrodes is damaged, the other pair can be connected to the external power supply circuit to ensure the membrane's normal operation.

[0027] Secondly, embodiments of this application provide a color-changing device, including the electrochromic film described in the first aspect. Because it possesses the electrochromic film described in the first aspect, it exhibits all the beneficial effects described in the first aspect.

[0028] Thirdly, embodiments of this application provide a terminal product, including the electrochromic film described in the first aspect or the color-changing device described in the second aspect, wherein the terminal product includes any one of a rearview mirror, curtain wall, car sunroof, car side window, car windshield, electronic product casing, eyeglasses, vehicle, and display panel. Because it possesses the electrochromic film described in the first aspect, it has all the beneficial effects of the first aspect. Attached Figure Description

[0029] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments of the embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0030] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the electrochromic film provided in the first embodiment of this application;

[0031] Figure 2 This is a side view of the long side of the electrochromic film provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0032] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the electrochromic film provided in the second embodiment of this application;

[0033] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the first configuration of the busbar of the electrochromic diaphragm provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0034] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram of the second configuration of the busbar of the electrochromic diaphragm provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0035] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram showing the specific placement of the lead-out electrodes in the electrochromic film provided in the embodiments of this application. Figure 1 ;

[0036] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram showing the specific placement of the lead-out electrodes in the electrochromic film provided in the embodiments of this application. Figure 2 ;

[0037] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram showing the specific placement of the lead-out electrodes in the electrochromic film provided in the embodiments of this application. Figure 3 ;

[0038] Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram showing the specific placement of the lead-out electrodes in the electrochromic film provided in the second embodiment of this application;

[0039] Figure 10a and Figure 10b This is a schematic diagram of the short-side half-cut structure of the electrochromic film provided in the embodiments of this application; wherein Figure 10a This is a schematic diagram of the structure with the first short side half-cut. Figure 10b This is a schematic diagram of the structure with the second short side half-cut;

[0040] Figure 11a and Figure 11b This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the electrochromic film provided in the embodiments of this application, in which the short side is cut in half and an adhesive layer is applied. Figure 11a This is a schematic diagram of the structure after the first short side is halved and an adhesive layer is applied. Figure 11b A schematic diagram of a structure with an adhesive layer after the second short side is half-cut;

[0041] Figure 12a and Figure 12b This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the electrochromic film provided in the embodiments of this application, in which an adhesive layer is provided on the short side after being cut in half, and a busbar is provided on the other side; Figure 12a This is a schematic diagram of a structure where an adhesive layer is applied to the first short side after it is halved, and a busbar is installed on the other side. Figure 12b A schematic diagram of a structure in which an adhesive layer is applied to the second short side after it is half-cut, and a busbar is applied to the other side;

[0042] Figure 13a and Figure 13b This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the electrochromic film provided in the embodiment of this application, in which a short side is cut in half and an adhesive layer is provided, and a busbar is provided on the other side and covered with the adhesive layer; Figure 13a This is a schematic diagram of a structure where the first short side is halved and an adhesive layer is installed, and a busbar is installed on the other side and covered with the adhesive layer. Figure 13b This is a schematic diagram of a structure where an adhesive layer is installed after the second short side is cut in half, and a busbar is installed on the other side and covered with the adhesive layer.

[0043] Figure 14aand Figure 14b This is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of the electrochromic film provided in this application, showing a structure in which an adhesive layer is provided after the short side is halved, and a busbar is provided on the other side and covered with the adhesive layer. Figure 14a This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an electrochromic film provided in another embodiment of this application, where the first short side is halved and an adhesive layer is provided, and a busbar is provided on the other side and covered with the adhesive layer. Figure 14b This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an electrochromic film provided in another embodiment of this application, in which the second short side is cut off and an adhesive layer is provided, and a busbar is provided on the other side and covered with the adhesive layer.

[0044] Figure 15a and Figure 15b This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the electrochromic film provided in this application embodiment, in which busbars are provided on both the front and back sides of the long side, and an adhesive layer is provided; Figure 15a This is a schematic diagram of a structure in which an adhesive layer is applied to one of the long sides of an electrochromic film on a busbar. Figure 15b This is a schematic diagram of a structure in which an adhesive layer is applied to the busbar along the other long side of the electrochromic film.

[0045] Figure 16a and Figure 16b This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an electrochromic film provided in another embodiment of this application, in which busbars are provided on both the front and back sides of the long side and an adhesive layer is provided; Figure 16a This is a schematic diagram of a structure in which an adhesive layer is applied to one of the long sides of an electrochromic film on a busbar. Figure 16b This is a schematic diagram of the structure where an adhesive layer is applied to the other long side of the electrochromic film on the busbar.

[0046] The attached icon numbers are as follows:

[0047] 10. Membrane body; 11. First substrate layer; 12. First conductive layer; 13. Electrochromic layer; 14. Second conductive layer; 15. Second substrate layer; 100. First groove; 101. Second groove; 102. First electrode; 103. Second electrode; 104. First long side; 105. Second long side; 106. First short side; 107. Second short side; 110. First notch; 111. Third adhesive layer; 150. Second notch; 151. Fourth adhesive layer;

[0048] 20. First lead-out assembly; 21. First busbar; 22. First lead-out electrode; 200. First adhesive layer;

[0049] 30. Second lead-out assembly; 31. Second busbar; 32. Second lead-out electrode; 300. Second adhesive layer. Detailed Implementation

[0050] In the following description, specific details such as particular system architectures and techniques are set forth for illustrative purposes and not for limitation, in order to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments of this application. However, those skilled in the art will understand that the embodiments of this application can also be implemented in other embodiments without these specific details. In other instances, detailed descriptions of well-known systems, apparatuses, circuits, and methods are omitted so as not to obscure the description of the embodiments of this application with unnecessary detail.

[0051] It should also be understood that the term "and / or" as used in the specification of embodiments of this application and the appended claims refers to any combination of one or more of the associated listed items and all possible combinations, and includes such combinations.

[0052] It should be noted that when a component is referred to as being "fixed to" or "set on" another component, it can be directly on or indirectly on that other component. When a component is referred to as being "connected to" another component, it can be directly connected to or indirectly connected to that other component.

[0053] It should be understood that the terms "length", "width", "up", "down", "front", "back", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inner", and "outer" indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are only for the convenience of describing the embodiments of this application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on the embodiments of this application.

[0054] Furthermore, in the description of the embodiments and the appended claims of this application, the terms "first," "second," "third," etc., are used only for distinguishing descriptions and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.

[0055] In the description of embodiments in this application, references to "some embodiments" or "some embodiments" mean that one or more embodiments of this application include a specific feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment. Therefore, the phrases "in some embodiments," "in some embodiments," "in other embodiments," "in still other embodiments," etc., appearing in different parts of this specification do not necessarily refer to the same embodiments, but rather mean "one or more, but not all, embodiments," unless otherwise specifically emphasized. The terms "comprising," "including," "having," and variations thereof mean "including but not limited to," unless otherwise specifically emphasized. "A plurality" refers to two or more.

[0056] Electrochromic films are mainly used in intelligent dimming fields such as glass curtain walls, car side windows, and sunroofs. By changing the voltage across the electrochromic film, the film changes color, thereby adjusting its light transmittance.

[0057] In existing technologies, electrochromic films typically have electrodes arranged around their perimeter, which are electrically connected to an external power source. An electric field is applied to the electrochromic film through these electrodes to achieve color change. This design has the following problems:

[0058] When an electric field is applied to an electrochromic film, because electrodes are placed around the film's perimeter, the charge diffusion rate at the four corners is faster than in other areas. This results in faster color change at the corners, leading to overlapping color differences and poor overall uniformity of the film. Over time, this can cause the corners to fail, resulting in a shorter lifespan. Furthermore, because the electrodes on the shorter sides of the electrochromic film are farther from the center, the charge diffusion rate is slower, resulting in a lower contribution of the electrodes to the film's color change.

[0059] Based on this, this application provides an electrochromic film. By setting electrodes only on the long side of the film and not setting electrodes on the short side, the electric field concentration at the corners of the film is avoided, so that the color-changing speed of the corners and the central area of ​​the film tends to be consistent, thus ensuring the optical uniformity of the film. It also effectively avoids overcharging or over-discharging in the corner area of ​​the film and the corners of the film are easily damaged, thereby improving the service life of the film.

[0060] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, this application provides an electrochromic film, including a film body 10, a first lead-out component 20, and a second lead-out component 30;

[0061] The membrane body 10 includes two opposing long sides and two opposing short sides. Multiple first electrodes 102 and multiple second electrodes 103 of the same polarity are formed along the edges of the long sides of the membrane body 10. The first electrodes 102 and the second electrodes 103 can be located on the upper and lower surfaces of the electrochromic membrane, respectively. Typically, when the first electrode 102 is a positive electrode, the second electrode 103 is a negative electrode, and vice versa. By applying a voltage to the first and second electrodes, the membrane body 10 can exhibit an electrochromic phenomenon.

[0062] The first lead-out component 20 includes a first busbar 21 and a first lead-out electrode 22 disposed on the first busbar 21. The first busbar 21 is connected to a plurality of first electrodes 102.

[0063] The second lead-out component 30 includes a second busbar 31 and a second lead-out electrode 32 disposed on the second busbar 31. The second busbar 31 is connected to a plurality of second electrodes 103.

[0064] The electrochromic film provided in this application embodiment, by setting electrodes only on the long sides of the electrochromic film, causes the film to change color from the two long sides towards the middle, effectively avoiding the phenomenon of electric field superposition in the corner areas of the electrochromic film, thus ensuring the optical uniformity of the entire electrochromic film. In addition, even after multiple charge-discharge cycles, the corner areas of the film will not be overcharged or over-discharged, effectively avoiding the problem of easy failure in the corners of the film, thereby improving the service life of the electrochromic device. By connecting the first bus bar 21 to multiple first electrodes 102 of the same polarity, and the second bus bar 31 to multiple second electrodes 103 of the same polarity, and then setting the first lead electrode 22 to the first bus bar 21 and the second lead electrode 32 to the second bus bar 31, only one pair of lead electrodes is needed to connect to the external circuit, that is, to apply voltage to the film body 10. This saves space, facilitates the wiring between the external circuit and the electrochromic film, and simplifies the design of the lead electrodes.

[0065] It should be noted that, in the embodiments of this application, the edge of the long side refers to the edge of the electrochromic film corresponding to the long side. Specifically, the electrochromic film has an upper surface and a lower surface arranged opposite to each other. As mentioned above, forming an electrode at the edge of the long side means forming an electrode on the upper or lower surface of the electrochromic film.

[0066] In applications, since electrodes are set on the edges of the long sides of the diaphragm, if busbars are set on the two long sides respectively, and each busbar has a lead-out electrode, at least two pairs of lead-out electrodes are required (one end of which is connected to the busbar, and the other end is connected to the external power supply circuit). Specifically, the positive electrode on the two long sides of the diaphragm corresponds to two lead-out electrodes, and the negative electrode on the two long sides of the diaphragm corresponds to two lead-out electrodes, that is, at least four lead-out electrodes are required. At this time, the external circuit and wiring of the diaphragm will be more complicated, as the external circuit must simultaneously control the voltage of the busbars on the two long sides of the electrochromic diaphragm, which increases the design difficulty. However, with the setting of the embodiment of this application, the electrodes on the two long sides are all connected to the same busbar, that is, by setting two busbars respectively connected to multiple first electrodes 102 and multiple second electrodes 103, and then setting one lead-out electrode on each of the two busbars, the number of lead-out electrodes is effectively reduced, the design difficulty is reduced, the space for the arrangement of external circuits and electrical components is saved, and it is also convenient to simultaneously control the energization of the electrodes on the two long sides.

[0067] It should be noted that the long side of the electrochromic film is the same as the long side of the film body 10, and the short side of the electrochromic film is the same as the short side of the film body 10. The overall shape of the film body 10 is the same as the shape of the electrochromic film. The film body 10 includes two oppositely arranged long sides and two oppositely arranged short sides. In a specific embodiment, the electrochromic film is rectangular or isosceles trapezoidal (e.g., Figure 3 (as shown) or fan-shaped (such as) Figure 1 Any one of the ones shown.

[0068] Optionally, such as Figure 2 As shown, the membrane body 10 includes a first base layer 11, a first conductive layer 12, an electrochromic layer 13, a second conductive layer 14, and a second base layer 15 stacked sequentially.

[0069] The electrochromic film has multiple first grooves 100 on one side edge and a portion of the second conductive layer 14 exposed to form multiple first electrodes 102. The electrochromic film has multiple second grooves 101 on the other side edge and a portion of the first conductive layer 12 exposed to form multiple second electrodes 103. The first grooves 100 and the second grooves 101 are staggered and located on the long side of the electrochromic film.

[0070] The first busbar 21 is located on the side of the first substrate 11 away from the first conductive layer 12, and the second busbar 31 is located on the side of the second substrate 15 away from the second conductive layer 14. In some embodiments, the first busbar 21 is connected to a plurality of first electrodes 102, that is, the first busbar 21 is connected to the second conductive layer 14 in the first groove 100, and the second busbar 31 is connected to a plurality of second electrodes 103, that is, the second busbar 31 is connected to the first conductive layer 12 in the second groove 101. In this application, by providing lead-out electrodes in the electrochromic film, an electrical connection is achieved between the lead-out electrodes and the busbars. The lead-out electrodes and the busbars conduct the voltage or current provided by the external power supply to the conductive layer, thereby forming an electric field or potential difference on both sides of the electrochromic layer 13, thereby driving the electrochromic film to exhibit coloring or fading phenomena on its surface. In some embodiments, by placing the lead-out electrodes on the inner side of the busbar, such as the side of the busbar closer to the conductive layer, the busbar can limit the lead-out electrodes, thereby improving the stability and reliability of the electrical connection between the lead-out electrodes and the busbar, preventing the lead-out electrodes from falling off under external force, and thus improving the stability and reliability of the electrical connection between the electrochromic film and the external power supply. In other embodiments, the lead-out electrodes are directly attached to the surface of the busbar using conductive adhesive.

[0071] Optionally, the first electrode 102 and the second electrode 103 may also be formed in the following ways:

[0072] like Figure 4As shown, the membrane body 10 includes a first base layer 11, a first conductive layer 12, an electrochromic layer 13, a second conductive layer 14, and a second base layer 15 stacked sequentially. A notch is made at the edge of the first base layer 11 to expose the first conductive layer 12 and form a first electrode 102. A notch is made at the edge of the second base layer 15 to expose the second conductive layer 14 and form a second electrode 103. Then, a first busbar 21 is provided on the exposed first conductive layer 12, and a second busbar 31 is provided on the exposed second conductive layer 14.

[0073] like Figure 5 As shown, the membrane body 10 includes a first base layer 11, a first conductive layer 12, an electrochromic layer 13, a second conductive layer 14, and a second base layer 15 stacked sequentially. A gap is formed between the first conductive layer 12 and the second conductive layer 14. Specifically, the edge of the electrochromic layer 13 can be cut, or the width of the first conductive layer 12 and the second conductive layer 14 can be set to be wider than that of the electrochromic layer 13, so that the first conductive layer 12 and the second conductive layer 14 form gaps on both sides of the electrochromic layer 13. Then, a first busbar 21 is provided on the surface of the first conductive layer 12 near the second conductive layer 14, and a second busbar 31 is provided on the surface of the second conductive layer 14 near the first conductive layer 12.

[0074] In some embodiments, such as Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the short side of the electrochromic film includes a first short side 106 and a second short side 107. The length of the first short side 106 is greater than the length of the second short side 107. The first lead electrode 22 and the second lead electrode 32 are located on either long side closer to the first short side 106. By placing the lead electrodes on the busbar of the long side of the film closer to the first short side 106, the color-changing speed of the first short side 106 and the second short side 107 can be further increased due to the voltage drop of the busbar, and overcharging and over-discharging due to the second short side 107 changing color too quickly can be avoided, thus improving the uniformity of the overall color change of the electrochromic film.

[0075] Optionally, such as Figure 6 As shown, the connection point between the first lead-out electrode 22 and the first bus bar 21 is A1. Point A1 is located on the first electrode 102 that is closest to the first short side 106 on the long side.

[0076] The connection point between the second lead-out electrode 32 and the second busbar 31 is A2. Point A2 is located on the second electrode 103 closest to the first short side 106 on the long side. This arrangement is to bring the lead-out electrode as close as possible to the end of the electrochromic film, especially near the first short side 106, which facilitates wiring. For example, if the electrochromic film provided in this application is used on a dome skylight, and the lead-out electrode is located in the middle of the long side, then a longer wire is required to connect to the external circuit, regardless of which end the wiring originates from. In other embodiments, the lead-out electrode can also be located in the middle of the electrochromic film; the specific arrangement depends on the specific application scenario.

[0077] Optionally, such as Figure 7 As shown, when the electrochromic membrane is a fan-shaped annular membrane, the length of the long side is L1, the average length of the chords corresponding to the two short arcs is L2, the chord length corresponding to the second short side 107 is x1, and the chord length corresponding to the first short side 106 is x2. L2 = (x1 + x2) / 2, and the lengths of the two short arcs are both less than 1.4m. L1 and L2 satisfy: L1 / L2 ≥ 2. When the above relationship is satisfied, the electrochromic membrane can change color rapidly while avoiding failure at the four corners of the membrane, ensuring uniform color change and extending the membrane's lifespan. Furthermore, fan-shaped annular membranes have a wide range of applications, including circular, arc-shaped, and curved architectural structures such as domes and skylights.

[0078] Optionally, such as Figure 8 As shown, the distance between the first electrode 102, which is closest to the second short side 107, and the second short side 107 is L3. The length of the first electrode 102 is b1, and the length of the second electrode 103 is b2. L3 satisfies the following relationship: L3 > 2*(b1 + b2). Optionally, the distance between the second electrode 103, which is closest to the second short side 107, and the second short side 107 is L4. The length of the first electrode 102 is b1, and the length of the second electrode 103 is b2. L4 satisfies the following relationship: L4 > 2*(b1 + b2). The distance between the first electrode 102 and the second short side 107 refers to the distance between the first electrode 102 and the corner of the membrane along the outer edge direction. In other words, no electrode is provided in the region where the long side is close to the second short side 107. By not placing electrodes in a local area near the long side of the second short side 107, the phenomenon of electric field superposition in the corner area of ​​the film is further avoided, so that the color change of the area near the first short side 106 and the area near the second short side 107 tends to be consistent, which is beneficial to improving the optical uniformity of the film.

[0079] To ensure that the color-changing rates at both ends of the electrochromic film are similar, electrodes may not be cut on the long side near the second short side 107. Specifically, when L1:L2 ≥ 2:1, the region of the long side near the second short side 107 has two fewer complete electrodes (i.e., the first electrode 102 + the second electrode 103). When L1:L2 is between 2:1 and 3:1, the region of the long side near the second short side 107 has four fewer complete electrodes (in other words, no electrodes are placed within a distance of at least four complete electrodes near the second short side 107). When L1:L2 is between 3:1 and 4:1, the region of the long side near the second short side 107 has five fewer complete electrodes. When L1:L2 > 4:1, the region of the long side near the second short side 107 has six fewer complete electrodes.

[0080] Optionally, such as Figure 9 As shown, when the electrochromic membrane is an isosceles trapezoid, the length of the long side is L1, the average length of the two short sides is L2, and the lengths of the two short sides are both less than 1.4m. L1 and L2 satisfy: L1 / L2≥2. This allows the electrochromic membrane to change color rapidly while preventing failure at the four corners, ensuring uniform color change and extending the membrane's lifespan.

[0081] It should be noted that when the electrochromic film is in the shape of an isosceles trapezoid, the long side corresponds to the legs of the isosceles trapezoid, and the short side corresponds to the upper and lower bases of the isosceles trapezoid.

[0082] Optionally, such as Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, the long side of the electrochromic film includes a first long side and a second long side. The first busbar 21 is located at the edge of one side of the electrochromic film and passes sequentially through the first long side, the first short side 106, and the second long side. The second busbar 31 is located at the edge of the other side of the electrochromic film and passes sequentially through the first long side, the second short side 107, and the second long side. This makes the film more symmetrical and aesthetically pleasing, avoiding the situation where busbars are placed on both the front and back sides of the same short side, resulting in uneven thicknesses on the two short sides. It should be noted that in this embodiment, the electrochromic film has an upper surface and a lower surface arranged opposite to each other. The electrode is located on the upper or lower surface of the electrochromic film, and the busbar is located at the edge of the upper or lower surface of the electrochromic film.

[0083] In applications, the busbar is a copper foil with conductive adhesive applied to it. The busbar is attached to the edge of the electrochromic film using the conductive adhesive. In other embodiments, the busbar can also be a conductive metal layer, connected to the electrodes on the long sides. Specifically, the first busbar 21 passes sequentially through the positive electrode of the first long side, the positive electrode of the first short side 106, and the positive electrode of the second long side; the second busbar 31 passes sequentially through the negative electrode of the first long side, the negative electrode of the second short side 107, and the negative electrode of the second long side. The polarities of the electrodes corresponding to the first busbar 21 and the second busbar 31 can be interchanged. The busbar can be made of conductive materials, including but not limited to conductive copper foil, conductive adhesive, and conductive resin, thereby forming a multi-electrode structure at the edge of the film and accelerating the color-changing speed of the film. The first busbar 21 and the second busbar 31 can be made of conductive materials well known to those skilled in the art, such as at least one of conductive silver paste, conductive copper paste, conductive carbon paste, nano-silver conductive ink, copper foil, copper wire, and conductive adhesive film.

[0084] In applications, both the first substrate layer 11 and the second substrate layer 15 are transparent substrates. The "transparent substrate" is an optically grade transparent material, specifically a flexible substrate material, such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polycarbonate (PC), polyimide (PI), cyclic olefin copolymers, or cellulose triacetate. The first substrate layer 11 and the second substrate layer 15 can also be glass substrates.

[0085] Both the first conductive layer 12 and the second conductive layer 14 are transparent conductive layers. The material of the "transparent conductive layer" can be indium-tin oxide (ITO), aluminum zinc oxide (AZO), fluorine-doped tin oxide (FTO), silver nanowires, graphene, carbon nanotubes, metal meshes, or silver nanoparticles, etc.

[0086] The electrochromic layer 13 is a sheet composed of one or more layers of gel-state or solid materials, such as polymer-dispersed liquid crystal (PDLC) layers, suspended particle devices (SPD) layers, and electrochromic (EC) layers. For electrochromic (EC) type electrochromic layers 13, they may include sequentially stacked color-changing material layers, electrolyte layers, and ion storage layers. The materials of the color-changing material layers, electrolyte layers, and ion storage layers can be those found in the prior art, and this application does not impose any special limitations on them.

[0087] The lead-out electrodes can be flexible circuit boards, rolled copper / aluminum foil, electrolytic copper / aluminum foil, etc., and the materials can be aluminum, copper, silver, tin, or other conductive elemental metals, non-metallic semiconductor conductive materials, their platings, or other conductive metal oxides or combinations thereof. The lead-out electrodes can also be directly formed into a power supply with a control module to directly achieve conductivity of the electrochromic layer.

[0088] In some embodiments, such as Figure 10a and Figure 11a As shown, a first notch 110 is formed at the edge of one short side of the electrochromic film, exposing the second conductive layer 14 to form a first step. A third adhesive layer 111 is disposed at the first step, and the third adhesive layer 111 is located on the first base layer 11 and the second conductive layer 14. Optionally, as shown... Figure 10b and Figure 11b As shown, a second notch 150 is formed at the edge of the other short side of the electrochromic film, exposing the first conductive layer 12 to form a second step. A fourth adhesive layer 151 is disposed at the second step, and the fourth adhesive layer 151 connects the second base layer 15 and the first conductive layer 12 in sequence. Here, the first notch 110 and the second notch 150 are respectively located on two opposite surfaces of the electrochromic film. The first notch 110 passes through the first base layer 11, the first conductive layer 12 and the electrochromic layer 13 in sequence, thereby exposing the second conductive layer 14; the second notch 150 passes through the second conductive base layer 15, the second conductive layer 14 and the electrochromic layer 13 in sequence, thereby exposing the first conductive layer 12.

[0089] By creating a notch and step on the short side without electrodes, space is provided for the thermal expansion of PVB during the subsequent lamination of the electrochromic film and glass. An adhesive layer at the step prevents demolding and creates a slope that guides the thermal expansion of PVB. The adhesive layer also prevents PVB from directly pressing against the film's edges, protecting them. Furthermore, by halving the film on both sides to create steps, the overall thickness of the electrochromic film is not excessive when the busbars pass over the short side of the film edge. Additionally, one busbar passes over the first short side while the other passes over the second, preventing excessive thickness at the film edge.

[0090] In some embodiments, such as Figure 12a As shown, a first notch 110 is formed at the edge of one short side of the electrochromic film, exposing the second conductive layer 14 to form a first step. A third adhesive layer 111 is disposed at the first step, and the third adhesive layer 111 is located on the first base layer 11 and the second conductive layer 14. A second busbar 31 is provided on the side of the short side away from the first notch 110, and the second busbar 12 is located on the first base layer 11. Figure 12b As shown, a second notch 150 is provided at the edge of the other short side of the electrochromic film, exposing the first conductive layer 12 to form a second step. A fourth adhesive layer 151 is provided at the second step. The fourth adhesive layer 151 is connected to the second base layer 15 and the first conductive layer 12 in sequence. A first busbar 21 is provided on the side of the short side away from the second notch 150. The first busbar is located on the second base layer.

[0091] It should be noted that the edge of the short side refers to the edge of the electrochromic film. Specifically, the electrochromic film has a first surface and a second surface arranged opposite to each other. The first notch 110 opened at the edge of one short side is located at the edge of the first surface, and the second notch 150 opened at the edge of the other short side is located at the edge of the second surface.

[0092] In some embodiments, such as Figure 13a As shown, a first notch 110 is formed at the edge of one short side of the electrochromic film, exposing the second conductive layer 14 to form a first step. A third adhesive layer 111 is disposed at the first step, located on the first base layer 11 and the second conductive layer 14. A second busbar 31 is provided on the side of the short side away from the first notch 110, located on the first base layer 11. A fourth adhesive layer 151 is disposed on the second busbar 31. Figure 13bAs shown, a second notch 150 is provided at the edge of the other short side of the electrochromic film, exposing the first conductive layer 12 to form a second step. A fourth adhesive layer 151 is provided at the second step. The fourth adhesive layer 151 is connected to the second base layer 15 and the first conductive layer 12 in sequence. A first busbar 21 is provided on the side of the short side away from the second notch 150. The first busbar is located on the second base layer. A third adhesive layer 111 is provided on the first busbar 21.

[0093] In some embodiments, such as Figure 14a and Figure 14b As shown, both the third adhesive layer 111 and the fourth adhesive layer 151 extend outward to cover the edge of the electrochromic film. Thus, neither the third adhesive layer 111 nor the fourth adhesive layer 151 is attached to the conductive layer; instead, they both extend outward to the edge of the electrochromic film and bond together. This design better prevents moisture and dust from entering the interior of the electrochromic film, thereby protecting the edge of the film.

[0094] Optionally, such as Figure 15a and Figure 15b As shown, busbars are covered on both sides of the two long sides of the diaphragm. The first busbar 21 is also covered with a first adhesive layer 200. The side of the first adhesive layer 200 near the middle of the electrochromic diaphragm is connected to the first base layer 11, and the side of the first adhesive layer 200 near the edge of the electrochromic diaphragm is connected to the second conductive layer 14. The second busbar 31 is also covered with a second adhesive layer 300. The side of the second adhesive layer 300 near the middle of the electrochromic diaphragm is connected to the second base layer 15, and the side of the second adhesive layer 300 near the edge of the electrochromic diaphragm is connected to the first conductive layer 12.

[0095] In application, the adhesive layer is a high-temperature adhesive (insulating tape). By covering the busbar with the adhesive layer, and the side of the adhesive layer near the middle of the electrochromic film being connected to the first substrate layer 11 (attached to the first substrate), and the side of the first adhesive layer 200 near the edge of the electrochromic film being connected to the second conductive layer 14, the adhesive layer can limit and fix the busbar corresponding to the groove, thereby improving the stability of the connection between the busbar and the second conductive layer 14 in the first groove 100. That is, the adhesive layer can further improve the stability of the busbar at the edge of the electrochromic film. Moreover, the adhesive layer forms an insulating barrier layer on the surface of the busbar, which can prevent polyvinyl butyral (PVB) from entering the electrochromic film through the first groove 100 and reacting with the electrochromic material layer in the subsequent lamination process. At the same time, it can also prevent external moisture, dust or other conductive substances from entering the interior of the electrochromic film through the first groove 100.

[0096] Optionally, such as Figure 16a and Figure 16b As shown, the first busbar 21 is also covered with a first adhesive layer 200. The side of the first adhesive layer 200 near the center of the electrochromic film is connected to the first substrate layer 11. The second busbar 31 is also covered with a second adhesive layer 300. The side of the second adhesive layer 300 near the center of the electrochromic film is connected to the second substrate layer 15. Both the first adhesive layer 200 and the second adhesive layer 300 extend outward to cover the edge of the electrochromic film. In this way, neither the first adhesive layer 200 nor the second adhesive layer 300 is attached to the conductive layer, but rather extends outward to the edge of the electrochromic film and is bonded together. This design can better prevent moisture and dust from entering the interior of the electrochromic film, thereby protecting the edge of the film.

[0097] Optionally, two first lead-out electrodes 22 and two second lead-out electrodes 32 are provided, with one first lead-out electrode 22 and one second lead-out electrode 32 paired together as a group;

[0098] The two first lead electrodes 22 are spaced at least one first groove 100 length apart, and the two second lead electrodes 32 are spaced at least one second groove 101 length apart. Generally, an electrochromic membrane only needs one pair of lead electrodes for connection to an external power supply circuit. However, machine or operator errors may sometimes damage the lead electrodes; therefore, an additional pair of lead electrodes is provided, with one pair as a backup. When one pair of lead electrodes is damaged, the other pair can be connected to the external power supply circuit to ensure the normal operation of the membrane.

[0099] Secondly, embodiments of this application provide a color-changing device, including the electrochromic film described in the first aspect. Because it possesses the electrochromic film described in the first aspect, it exhibits all the beneficial effects described in the first aspect.

[0100] Optionally, when the photochromic device is photochromic glass, the photochromic glass includes a first glass, an electrochromic film, and a second glass arranged sequentially. By changing the voltage applied to the electrochromic glass, its light transmittance can be dynamically adjusted, offering the following advantages: 1. Energy-saving and environmentally friendly, reducing air conditioning and lighting energy consumption and lowering carbon emissions; 2. Rapid response (seconds) and a wide range of light transmittance adjustment; 3. No mechanical structure, long lifespan, and low maintenance costs; 4. Supports intelligent control and is compatible with integrated building design; 5. Anti-glare, heat insulation, and sound insulation, improving spatial comfort. It is widely used in building curtain walls, automotive sunroofs, and other fields, representing a highly efficient solution in the field of intelligent dimming.

[0101] Thirdly, embodiments of this application provide a terminal product, including the electrochromic film described in the first aspect or the color-changing device described in the second aspect. The terminal product includes any one of a rearview mirror, curtain wall, sunroof, side window, windshield, electronic product casing, eyeglasses, vehicle, and display panel. Because it possesses the electrochromic film described in the first aspect, it exhibits all the beneficial effects of the first aspect.

[0102] In the above embodiments, the descriptions of each embodiment have different focuses. For parts that are not described in detail or recorded in a certain embodiment, please refer to the relevant descriptions of other embodiments.

[0103] The above-described embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, and are not intended to limit them. Although the embodiments of this application have 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 of the technical features. Such modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the spirit and scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, and should all be included within the protection scope of the embodiments of this application.

Claims

1. An electrochromic film, characterized in that, include: The membrane body includes two oppositely arranged long sides and two oppositely arranged short sides. Multiple first electrodes and multiple second electrodes are formed on the edges of the long sides of the membrane body. The multiple first electrodes are of the same polarity, and the multiple second electrodes are of the same polarity. A first lead-out component, comprising a first busbar and first lead-out electrodes disposed on the first busbar, wherein the first busbar is connected to a plurality of the first electrodes; and The second lead-out component includes a second busbar and a second lead-out electrode disposed on the second busbar, wherein the second busbar is connected to a plurality of the second electrodes.

2. The electrochromic film as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The short side of the electrochromic film includes a first short side and a second short side, the length of the first short side is greater than the length of the second short side, and the first lead electrode and the second lead electrode are located on either of the long sides closer to the first short side.

3. The electrochromic film as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The connection point between the first lead-out electrode and the first bus bar is A1, and A1 is located on the first electrode closest to the first short side on the long side; The connection point between the second lead-out electrode and the second bus bar is A2, and A2 is located on the second electrode that is closest to the first short side on the long side.

4. The electrochromic film as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The distance between the first electrode, which is closest to the second short side, and the second short side is L3. The length of the first electrode is b1, and the length of the second electrode is b2. L3 satisfies the following relationship: L3 > 2*(b1+b2); And / or, the distance between the second electrode closest to the second short side and the second short side is L4, the length of the first electrode is b1, the length of the second electrode is b2, and L4 satisfies the following relationship: L4>2*(b1+b2).

5. The electrochromic film as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The long side of the electrochromic film includes a first long side and a second long side. The first busbar is located at the edge of one side of the electrochromic film and passes through the first long side, the first short side and the second long side in sequence. The second busbar is located at the edge of the other side of the electrochromic film and passes through the first long side, the second short side and the second long side in sequence.

6. The electrochromic film as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The electrochromic film is shaped like a fan-shaped ring or an isosceles trapezoid. When the electrochromic film is a fan-shaped ring, the length of the long side is L1, the average length of the chords corresponding to the two short arc sides is L2, the lengths of the two short arc sides are both less than 1.4m, and L1 and L2 satisfy: L1 / L2≥2. Alternatively, when the electrochromic film is an isosceles trapezoid, the length of the long side is L1, the average length of the two short sides is L2, the length of the two short sides is less than 1.4m, and L1 and L2 satisfy: L1 / L2≥2.

7. The electrochromic film according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, The membrane body comprises a first base layer, a first conductive layer, an electrochromic layer, a second conductive layer, and a second base layer, which are stacked sequentially. The electrochromic film has multiple first grooves on one side of its edge, exposing a portion of the second conductive layer to form multiple first electrodes. The electrochromic film has multiple second grooves on the other side of its edge, exposing a portion of the first conductive layer to form multiple second electrodes. The first grooves and second grooves are staggered and located on the long side of the electrochromic film. The first busbar is located on the side of the first substrate layer away from the first conductive layer, and the second busbar is located on the side of the second substrate layer away from the second conductive layer.

8. The electrochromic film as described in claim 7, characterized in that, The first busbar is also covered with a first adhesive layer, the side of the first adhesive layer near the middle of the electrochromic film is connected to the first base layer, and the side of the first adhesive layer near the edge of the electrochromic film is connected to the second conductive layer. The second busbar is also covered with a second adhesive layer. The side of the second adhesive layer near the middle of the electrochromic film is connected to the second base layer, and the side of the second adhesive layer near the edge of the electrochromic film is connected to the first conductive layer. Alternatively, the first busbar is further covered with a first adhesive layer, the first adhesive layer being connected to the first base layer on the side near the middle of the electrochromic film, and the second busbar is further covered with a second adhesive layer, the second adhesive layer being connected to the second base layer on the side near the middle of the electrochromic film, and both the first adhesive layer and the second adhesive layer extending outward to cover the edge of the electrochromic film.

9. The electrochromic film as described in claim 7, characterized in that, A first notch is formed at the edge of one short side of the electrochromic film, exposing the second conductive layer to form a first step. A third adhesive layer is disposed at the first step, and the third adhesive layer is sequentially located between the first substrate layer and the second conductive layer; and / or, A second notch is provided at the edge of the other short side of the electrochromic film, exposing the first conductive layer to form a second step. A fourth adhesive layer is provided at the second step, and the fourth adhesive layer is located sequentially on the second base layer and the first conductive layer.

10. A terminal product, characterized in that, Includes the electrochromic film as described in any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the end product includes any one of rearview mirrors, curtain walls, car sunroofs, car side windows, car windshields, housings of electronic products, eyeglasses, vehicles, and display panels.

Images