Electrochromic device and terminal product

Abstract

The application discloses an electrochromic device and a terminal product, and relates to the technical field of electrochromic technology. The electrochromic device comprises an electrochromic layer, a substrate layer, a metal mesh conductive layer and a protective layer. The substrate layer is provided with a groove with a notch facing the electrochromic layer. The metal mesh conductive layer is embedded in the groove, and the side surface of at least part of the metal mesh conductive layer cooperates with the groove wall corresponding to the notch to form a sub-groove. The protective layer fills the sub-groove and covers the surface of the metal mesh conductive layer close to the notch. The electrochromic device provided by the application can be clamped in the sub-groove, and the metal mesh conductive layer is not easy to be separated from the substrate layer through mechanical bonding force.

Description

Technical Field

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

[0002] Currently, by embedding a metal mesh into electrochromic devices, the sheet resistance of the transparent conductive layer can be reduced, thereby enabling the electrochromic devices to respond faster and have a more uniform color-changing effect.

[0003] However, due to the weak bonding between the metal mesh and the polymer substrate of the electrochromic device, the electrochromic device is prone to peeling off from the substrate when subjected to repeated bending, changes in ambient temperature, or long-term use. Utility Model Content

[0004] In view of this, this application provides an electrochromic device and end product, which aims to solve one of the technical problems in the prior art.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, the technical solution adopted in this application is as follows: In a first aspect, this application provides an electrochromic device, comprising: Electrochromic layer; The substrate layer has a groove with the opening facing the electrochromic layer; A metal mesh conductive layer is embedded in the groove, and at least a portion of the side surface of the metal mesh conductive layer mates with the groove wall corresponding to the groove opening to form a sub-groove; and A protective layer is disposed between the electrochromic layer and the substrate layer, the protective layer filling the sub-groove and covering the surface of the metal mesh conductive layer near the groove opening.

[0006] In an optional embodiment, the conductive metal mesh layer includes a first filler, at least a portion of the side of the first filler engaging with the groove wall of the groove to form the sub-groove, and the width of the first filler gradually decreases along the direction from the bottom of the groove to the opening of the groove.

[0007] In an optional embodiment, the metal mesh conductive layer includes a first filler, at least a portion of the side of the first filler engaging with the groove wall of the groove to form the sub-groove, and the width of the sub-groove gradually increases along the direction from the bottom of the groove to the opening of the groove.

[0008] In an optional embodiment, the metal mesh conductive layer further includes a second filler. Along the direction from the groove opening to the bottom of the groove, the first filler and the second filler are sequentially embedded in the groove and connected to each other, and the side of the second filler contacts the groove wall.

[0009] In an optional embodiment, the width of the second filling body gradually increases along the direction from the opening to the bottom of the groove.

[0010] In an optional embodiment, along the direction from the opening to the bottom of the groove, the minimum width of the second filling body is greater than or equal to the maximum width of the first filling body.

[0011] In an optional embodiment, along the direction from the opening to the bottom of the groove, the groove includes a first groove and a second groove that are interconnected, the first filling body is located in the first groove, the second filling body fills the second groove and contacts the groove wall of the second groove, and the width of the first filling body is smaller than the width of the first groove.

[0012] In an optional embodiment, in the direction from the opening to the bottom of the groove, the groove includes a first groove and a second groove that are interconnected, the first filling body is located in the first groove, the second filling body fills the second groove and contacts the groove wall of the second groove, and the width of the first groove gradually increases in the direction from the bottom of the groove to the opening.

[0013] In an optional embodiment, the electrochromic device further includes a third filling body connected to the end of the second filling body away from the first filling body; the width of the third filling body gradually decreases along the direction from the opening to the bottom of the groove.

[0014] In an optional embodiment, the electrochromic device further includes a third filling body connected to the end of the second filling body away from the first filling body, wherein the maximum width of the third filling body is less than or equal to the maximum width of the second filling body.

[0015] In an optional embodiment, the electrochromic device further includes a third filling body, which is connected to the end of the second filling body away from the first filling body. Along the direction from the slot opening to the bottom of the slot, the projection of the third filling body and the projection of the first filling body are both located within the projection of the second filling body.

[0016] In an optional embodiment, the thickness of the metal mesh conductive layer is less than the depth of the groove, and the distance between the metal mesh conductive layer and the groove opening is 5μm-10μm.

[0017] In an optional embodiment, the ratio of the depth to the width of the metal mesh conductive layer is greater than or equal to 1.

[0018] In an optional embodiment, the conductivity of the protective layer is less than that of the metal mesh conductive layer.

[0019] In an optional embodiment, the corrosion resistance of the protective layer is greater than that of the metal mesh conductive layer.

[0020] Secondly, this application provides a terminal product including the electrochromic device described in any of the foregoing embodiments, wherein the terminal product includes any one of a rearview mirror, a curtain wall, a car sunroof, a car side window, a car windshield, a housing of an electronic product, glasses, and a display panel of an electronic product.

[0021] Compared to existing technologies, the advantages of this application are as follows: Structurally, by placing a protective layer on the sub-groove and covering the surface of the metal mesh conductive layer near the groove opening, the metal mesh conductive layer is less likely to detach from the substrate layer through mechanical bonding force. Specifically, in terms of material properties, the metal mesh conductive layer is typically made of metal, while the substrate layer is usually a polymer substrate. The bonding force between the metal material and the polymer substrate (groove wall) is relatively weak, making it easy to separate the metal mesh conductive layer from the substrate layer. In this application, the protective layer can be made of a material with strong bonding force to both the substrate layer and the metal mesh conductive layer, and the metal mesh conductive layer and the substrate layer are in contact with the protective layer respectively, enhancing the bonding force between the materials and thus making it less likely for the metal mesh conductive layer to detach from the substrate layer. Attached Figure Description

[0022] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application, the accompanying drawings used in the embodiments will be briefly introduced below. It should be understood that the following drawings only show some embodiments of this application and should not be regarded as a limitation of the scope. For those skilled in the art, other related drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0023] Figure 1 The following are schematic diagrams of the electrochromic devices in some embodiments of this application; Figure 2 This illustration shows one of the combined structures of the protective layer and the substrate layer in some embodiments of this application; Figure 3 This is shown as a second schematic diagram of the combined structure of the protective layer and the substrate layer in some embodiments of this application; Figure 4 This paper shows one of the structural schematic diagrams of the method for fabricating an electrochromic device in some embodiments of this application; Figure 5 This is a second schematic diagram of the structure of a method for fabricating an electrochromic device according to some embodiments of this application; Figure 6The third schematic diagram shows a structural diagram of a method for fabricating an electrochromic device according to some embodiments of this application; Figure 7 The fourth schematic diagram shows a structural schematic diagram of a method for fabricating an electrochromic device according to some embodiments of this application; Figure 8 The fifth of the structural schematic diagrams of the method for fabricating an electrochromic device in some embodiments of this application is shown; Figure 9 The sixth of some embodiments of the method for fabricating an electrochromic device is shown. Figure 10 The seventh of some embodiments of the present application shows a structural schematic diagram of the method for manufacturing an electrochromic device.

[0024] Key component symbols: 100 - Electrochromic device; 110 - Substrate layer; 1111 - Groove; 1112 - First groove; 1113 - Second groove; 1114 - Third groove; 1115 - Sub-groove; 111 - Groove; 112 - First base layer; 113 - Second base layer; 114 - Third base layer; 115 - Fourth base layer; 120 - Metal mesh conductive layer; 121 - First filler; 122 - Second filler; 123 - Third filler; 130 - Protective layer; 131 - Filler portion; 132 - Covering portion; 140 - Electrochromic layer; 141 - Electrochromic material layer; 142 - Electrolyte layer; 143 - Ion storage layer. Detailed Implementation

[0025] The embodiments of this application are described in detail below. Examples of the embodiments are shown in the accompanying drawings, wherein the same or similar reference numerals denote the same or similar elements or elements having the same or similar functions throughout. The embodiments described below with reference to the accompanying drawings are exemplary and are only used to explain this application, and should not be construed as limiting this application.

[0026] In the description of this application, it should be understood that the terms "center", "longitudinal", "lateral", "length", "width", "thickness", "upper", "lower", "front", "rear", "left", "right", "vertical", "horizontal", "top", "bottom", "inner", "outer", "clockwise", "counterclockwise", "axial", "radial", "circumferential", etc., indicating the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings, are only for the convenience of describing 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, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of this application.

[0027] Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Thus, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature. In the description of this application, "multiple" means two or more, unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0028] In this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "linking," and "fixing," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application according to the specific circumstances.

[0029] In this application, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, "above" or "below" the second feature can mean that the first feature is in direct contact with the second feature, or that the first feature is in indirect contact with the second feature through an intermediate medium. Furthermore, "above," "on top of," and "over" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. "Below," "below," and "under" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.

[0030] like Figure 1 As shown, an embodiment of this application provides an electrochromic device 100, which is mainly used in energy-saving windows, automotive rearview mirrors, display devices, mobile terminals, and other fields. The electrochromic device 100 includes an electrochromic layer 140, a substrate layer 110, a metal mesh conductive layer 120, and a protective layer 130.

[0031] The electrochromic layer 140 generally comprises an electrochromic material layer 141, an electrolyte layer 142, and an ion storage layer 143, stacked sequentially. The electrochromic material layer 141 contains an electrochromic material. The ion storage material in the ion storage layer 143 is primarily used to store ions. When an electric current is applied, ions from the ion storage material pass through the electrolyte layer 142 and transfer to the electrochromic material layer 141. The electrochromic material layer 141 absorbs these ions and changes color. The electrolyte layer 142, also known as the ion transfer layer, serves as the ion transfer channel.

[0032] like Figure 1As shown, in this embodiment, there are two of each of the substrate layer 110, the metal mesh conductive layer 120, and the protective layer 130, symmetrically disposed on opposite sides of the electrochromic layer 140. On either side of the electrochromic layer 140, the protective layer 130 is connected to the electrochromic layer 140. The surface of the substrate layer 110 facing the protective layer 130 has a groove 111, and the metal mesh conductive layer 120 is embedded in the groove 111. The surface of the substrate layer 110 with the groove 111 is connected to the protective layer 130, so that the opening 1111 of the groove 111 faces the electrochromic layer 140.

[0033] The working principle of the electrochromic device 100 of this application is as follows: One of the metal mesh conductive layers 120 is electrically contacted with an external terminal via a busbar thereon, and another metal mesh conductive layer 120 is electrically contacted with another external terminal via a busbar thereon. Thus, by connecting a power source to the two external terminals, a voltage can be applied between the two metal mesh conductive layers 120, thereby changing the transmittance of the electrochromic device 100.

[0034] In existing technologies, metal meshes are typically formed by printing or etching conductive materials such as silver or copper onto polymer substrates such as PET (polyethylene terephthalate) or PI (polyimide) using a printing or etching process. Because the bonding force between the metal material and the polymer substrate is relatively weak, the metal mesh is prone to peeling off from the substrate under repeated bending or changes in ambient temperature in electrochromic devices.

[0035] To address the aforementioned issues, this application, such as Figure 1 As shown, at least a portion of the side surface of the metal mesh conductive layer 120 cooperates with the groove wall corresponding to the groove opening 1111 of the groove 111 to form a sub-groove 1115, and the protective layer 130 fills the sub-groove 1115 and covers the surface of the metal mesh conductive layer 120 near the groove opening 1111.

[0036] The protective layer 130 includes a filling portion 131 that fills the sub-groove 1115, and at least a portion of the metal mesh conductive layer 120 is located between the filling portion 131 and the bottom of the groove 111.

[0037] The groove 111 has a bottom facing the opening 1111 and a wall connected to the bottom. The side surface of the metal mesh conductive layer 120 refers to the surface of the metal mesh conductive layer 120 that is close to the wall of the groove 111. The formation of a sub-groove 1115 by at least a portion of the side surface of the metal mesh conductive layer 120 engaging with the wall of the opening 1111 of the groove 111 means that the side surface of the metal mesh conductive layer 120 near the opening 1111 intersects with the wall of the opening 1111, and the sub-groove 1115 is formed between this portion of the side surface and the wall of the groove 111.

[0038] The protective layer 130 is used to prevent the material of the metal mesh conductive layer 120 (such as silver or copper) from reacting with the material of the electrochromic layer 140, thereby improving the weather resistance of the electrochromic device 100. The protective layer 130 is a transparent and conductive protective layer, through which the colored light emitted by the electrochromic layer 140 is transmitted towards the substrate, making it easy to visually observe the color changes produced on the electrochromic layer 140.

[0039] In this embodiment, by securing the filling portion 131 to the sub-groove 1115, the metal mesh conductive layer 120 is prevented from easily detaching from the substrate layer 110 by mechanical bonding force. The metal mesh conductive layer 120 is made of a metallic material, and the substrate layer 110 is typically a polymer substrate. In this embodiment, the filling portion 131 can be made of a material with strong bonding force to the substrate layer 110 and the metal mesh conductive layer 120, and the filling portion 131 is brought into contact with both the metal mesh conductive layer 120 and the substrate layer 110 to enhance the bonding force between the materials, making it difficult for the metal mesh conductive layer 120 to detach from the substrate layer 110. The filling portion 131 can be made of ITO, AZO, ZnO, a passivation layer (silicon nitride / silicon dioxide), a conductive polymer (PEDOT:PSS, P3HT, PDDT, PPV, etc.), or carbon nanotubes.

[0040] It should be noted that in this embodiment, the filling portion 131 completely fills the sub-groove 1115, making the bond between the metal mesh conductive layer 120 and the groove wall of the groove 111 more stable. In other embodiments, the filling portion 131 may partially fill the sub-groove 1115, with the unfilled sub-groove 1115 located at one end of the sub-groove 1115 near the groove opening 1111 of the groove 111, reducing the manufacturing difficulty of the filling portion 131.

[0041] Furthermore, in the direction away from the electrochromic layer 140, the depth of the sub-groove 1115 is less than the depth of the metal mesh conductive layer 120, such that at least a portion of the metal mesh conductive layer 120 contacts the groove wall and / or bottom of the groove 111. When the filling portion 131 fills the sub-groove 1115, the filling portion 131 presses the end of the metal mesh conductive layer 120 away from the electrochromic layer 140 against the bottom of the groove 111, enhancing the bonding stability between the metal mesh layer and the substrate layer 110.

[0042] In some embodiments, the protective layer 130 further includes a cover portion 132. For example... Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the cover portion 132 is connected to the fill portion 131 and covers the end face of the metal mesh conductive layer 120 facing the electrochromic layer 140.

[0043] The cover portion 132 is used to separate the electrochromic layer 140 and the metal mesh conductive layer 120, preventing the material of the metal mesh conductive layer 120 from reacting with the material of the electrochromic layer 140, thereby improving the weather resistance of the electrochromic device 100.

[0044] In some embodiments, the cover portion 132 also covers the end face of the filling portion 131 facing the electrochromic layer 140 and the end face of the substrate layer 110 facing the electrochromic layer 140, so that the substrate layer 110 is connected to the cover portion 132, increasing the bonding force between the cover portion 132 and the substrate layer 110, and further reinforcing the fixing structure of the filling portion 131 and the metal mesh layer by the cover portion 132, so that the metal mesh layer is not easy to detach from the groove 111.

[0045] In some embodiments, the metal mesh conductive layer 120 includes a first filler 121, which is disposed on the side of the metal mesh conductive layer 120 near the slot 1111.

[0046] In one embodiment, such as Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, at least a portion of the side surface of the first filling body 121 is spaced apart from the groove wall of the groove 111 to form a sub-groove 1115, and the width of the first filling body 121 gradually decreases along the direction from the bottom of the groove to the opening 1111. Since the light transmittance of the first filling body 121 is low, the gradual reduction in the width of the first filling body 121 is beneficial to increasing the light transmittance of the electrochromic device 100.

[0047] In one embodiment, the width of the first filling body 121 decreases linearly in the direction from the bottom of the groove to the opening 1111, making the edge of the longitudinal section of the first filling body 121 (near the groove wall of the groove 111) be oblique, with an inclination angle of 15° to 75°, thereby increasing the contact area between the first filling body 121 and the filling part 131 and reducing the processing difficulty and production cost.

[0048] In one embodiment, the width of the first filler 121 is reduced exponentially, making the edge of the longitudinal section of the first filler 121 (near the groove wall of the groove 111) curved, increasing the contact area between the filling part 131 and the first filler 121, and enhancing the bonding force between the filling part 131 and the first filler 121.

[0049] In some embodiments, such as Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, at least a portion of the side surface of the first filling body 121 is spaced apart from the groove wall of the groove 111 to form a sub-groove 1115. In the direction from the bottom of the groove to the opening 1111, the width of the sub-groove 1115 gradually increases, forming a ring-shaped structure that is narrower at the bottom and wider at the top. For example, the sub-groove 1115 ( Figure 2 and Figure 3The longitudinal section of the sub-slot 1115 is an inverted triangle or an inverted trapezoid.

[0050] It is understood that the protective layer 130 is made by multiple coating processes. When making the filling part 131, the inverted triangular or inverted trapezoidal sub-groove 1115 can guide the coated liquid material to flow from the wide part of the sub-groove 1115 to the narrow part, and preferentially fill the narrower area of ​​the sub-groove 1115, gradually expelling the air in the (narrow) sub-groove 1115 outward (wide), reducing the generation of holes and voids in the filling part 131.

[0051] In this application, the filling portion 131 completely fills the sub-groove 1115, making the filling portion 131 also have a ring structure that is narrow at the bottom and wide at the top. The longitudinal section of the filling portion 131 is an inverted triangle or an inverted trapezoid. The end of the filling portion 131 away from the electrochromic layer 140 forms a sharp edge, which provides a "mechanical anchoring point" for the protective layer 130. This increases the contact area and interlocking strength between the protective layer 130 and the substrate layer 110, reduces the peeling of the protective layer 130 due to thermal expansion or external force, and reduces the risk of the metal mesh conductive layer 120 falling off the substrate layer 110.

[0052] In one embodiment, such as Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, at least a portion of the side of the first filling body 121 is spaced apart from the groove wall of the groove 111 to form a sub-groove 1115. Along the direction from the bottom of the groove to the opening 1111, the width of the first filling body 121 gradually decreases, and the width of the sub-groove 1115 gradually increases.

[0053] See also Figure 1 When light passes through the electrochromic device 100 along the thickness direction of the metal mesh conductive layer 120, the light transmittance of the filling portion 131, made of a transparent conductive material, is stronger than that of the first filling body 121. From the bottom of the groove to the opening 1111, the width of the first filling body 121 gradually decreases, while the width of the sub-groove 1115 gradually increases, thus improving the light transmittance of the electrochromic device 100. Simultaneously, the filling portion 131 is inserted between the metal mesh conductive layer 120 and the substrate layer 110. The end of the filling portion 131 furthest from the electrochromic layer 140 forms a sharp edge, providing a "mechanical anchoring point" for the protective layer 130. This increases the contact area and interlocking strength between the protective layer 130 and the substrate, reducing the risk of the protective layer 130 peeling off due to thermal expansion or external force, and lowering the risk of the metal mesh conductive layer 120 detaching from the substrate layer 110.

[0054] In some embodiments, the metal mesh conductive layer 120 further includes a second filler 122.

[0055] like Figure 2 and Figure 3As shown, along the direction from the groove opening 1111 to the bottom of the groove, the first filling body 121 and the second filling body 122 are sequentially embedded in the groove 111 and connected to each other, so that the first filling body 121 is closer to the electrochromic layer 140 than the second filling body 122. In this embodiment, the first filling body 121 and the second filling body 122 are integrally formed, and the first filling body 121 and the second filling body 122 are made of the same material, reducing costs and simplifying the process. In other embodiments, the first filling body 121 and the second filling body 122 are integrally formed, but can be made of different materials.

[0056] For example, since the first filler 121 is closer to the electrochromic layer 140 than the second filler 122, weather-resistant materials can be added to the material of the first filler 121 to make the weather resistance of the first filler 121 stronger than that of the second filler 122, thereby reducing the risk of corrosion of the material of the metal mesh conductive layer 120.

[0057] For example, since the first filler 121 is closer to the electrochromic layer 140 than the second filler 122, a material with higher conductivity can be added to the first filler 121 to make the conductivity of the first filler 121 higher than that of the second filler 122, thereby accelerating the reaction speed and color-changing efficiency of the electrochromic layer 140.

[0058] In some embodiments, the side of the second filling body 122 contacts the groove wall of the groove 111, and at least a portion of the second filling body 122 is located between the filling portion 131 and the bottom of the groove 111.

[0059] like Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the contact between the second filler 122 and the sidewall of the groove 111 means that the entire side of the second filler 122 near the groove wall of the groove 111 is connected to the groove wall of the groove 111. At least a portion of the second filler 122 is located between the filling portion 131 and the bottom of the groove 111, so that at least a portion of the metal mesh conductive layer 120 is buried in the groove 111 by the first filler 121 and the filling portion 131, making it difficult for the metal mesh conductive layer 120 to fall off from the substrate layer 110.

[0060] In some embodiments, such as Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the width of the second filling body 122 gradually increases along the direction from the groove opening 1111 to the bottom of the groove. For example, the width of the second filling body 122 increases linearly in the direction from the groove opening 1111 to the bottom of the groove, making the edge of the longitudinal section of the second filling body 122 (near the groove wall of the groove 111) be oblique, with an inclination angle of 15° to 75°. This increases the bonding area between the second filling body 122 and the groove wall of the groove 111, thereby enhancing the bonding force, reducing processing difficulty and production costs, and improving the conductivity of the metal mesh conductive layer 120.

[0061] For example, along the direction from the groove opening 1111 to the bottom of the groove, the width of the second filling body 122 increases exponentially, making the edge of the longitudinal section of the second filling body 122 (near the groove wall of the groove 111) curved, increasing the bonding area between the second filling body 122 and the groove wall of the groove 111, thereby enhancing the bonding force.

[0062] In some embodiments, the minimum width of the second filling body 122 is greater than or equal to the maximum width of the first filling body 121.

[0063] like Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, when the width of the second filler 122 near the electrochromic layer 140 is equal to the width of the first filler 121 away from the electrochromic layer 140, the edges of the longitudinal section of the first filler 121 and the second filler 122 (near the groove wall of the groove 111) are straight, and the side of the filling portion 131 away from the electrochromic layer 140 is sharp "blade", providing a "mechanical anchoring point" for the protective layer 130, increasing the contact area and interlocking strength between the protective layer 130 and the substrate, reducing the peeling of the protective layer 130 due to thermal expansion or external force, and reducing the risk of the metal mesh conductive layer 120 falling off the substrate layer 110.

[0064] When the width of the second filler 122 near the electrochromic layer 140 is equal to the width of the first filler 121 away from the electrochromic layer 140, the edges of the longitudinal section of the first filler 121 and the second filler 122 (near the groove wall of the groove 111) are zigzag-shaped, and the connection between the first filler 121 and the second filler 122 is stepped. Compared with the "blade" structure, the filling portion 131 and the second filler 122 have an added bonding surface parallel to the electrochromic layer 140, thereby enhancing the bonding force between the filling portion 131 and the second filler 122, reducing the peeling of the protective layer 130 due to thermal expansion or external force, and reducing the risk of the metal mesh conductive layer 120 falling off the substrate layer 110.

[0065] In some embodiments, such as Figure 2 As shown, the side of the second filling body 122 is connected to the groove wall of the groove 111, and the end face of the second filling body 122 away from the electrochromic layer 140 is also connected to the bottom of the groove 111.

[0066] The substrate layer 110 includes a first substrate layer 112 and a second substrate layer 113. A groove 111 is formed through the first substrate layer 112. The second substrate layer 113 is connected to the side of the first substrate layer 112 away from the electrochromic layer 140. The side of the second filler 122 is connected to the first substrate layer 112. The end face of the second filler 122 away from the electrochromic layer 140 is connected to the second substrate layer 113.

[0067] In one embodiment, the first substrate layer 112 is made of a highly transparent resin (such as polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), polycarbonate (PC), or epoxy resin), and the second substrate layer 113 is made of a highly transparent resin (such as polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), polycarbonate (PC), or highly transparent UV-curable acrylate).

[0068] In one embodiment, such as Figure 2 As shown, the substrate layer 110 also includes a third substrate layer 114 and a fourth substrate layer 115.

[0069] The third substrate layer 114 is a transparent film layer that allows light to pass through, and may include at least one of an HC layer (hardening layer) and an IM layer (anti-reflection layer). The third substrate layer 114 is made of acrylic resin or silicone polymer, in which silica / zirconia nanoparticles are added to adjust the reflective color and transmittance, thereby adjusting the optical properties of the film material, and the thickness is generally 0.5-5 μm.

[0070] The third base layer 114 can also serve as a heat insulation layer or a heating layer, such as a metal mesh heating layer or a metal oxide heat insulation coating (Ag / titanium dioxide / ITO, etc.).

[0071] The fourth substrate layer 115 is disposed on the side of the third substrate layer 114 away from the third substrate layer 114. The fourth substrate layer 115 serves as a core support layer and is made of a rigid glass substrate or flexible PET material to improve the mechanical stability of the electrochromic device 100.

[0072] In some embodiments, in the direction from the opening 1111 to the bottom of the groove, the groove 111 includes a first groove 1112 and a second groove 1113 that are in communication with each other.

[0073] like Figure 2 As shown, the first groove 1112 is close to the electrochromic layer 140, and the first filling body 121 is located in the first groove 1112. The width of the first filling body 121 is smaller than the width of the first groove 1112, so that the side of the first filling body 121 is spaced apart from the side of the first groove 111, forming a sub-groove 1115.

[0074] like Figure 2 As shown, the second tank 1113 is connected to the side of the first tank 1112 away from the electrochromic layer 140, and the second filler 122 fills the second tank 1113 and contacts the tank wall of the second tank 1113.

[0075] In some embodiments, such as Figure 2As shown, along the direction from the bottom of the groove to the opening 1111, the width of the first groove 1112 gradually increases, while the width of the first filling body 121 gradually decreases, so that the width of the sub-groove 1115 gradually increases, forming a structure that changes from narrow to wide, which facilitates the guidance and positioning of the filling part 131 during installation.

[0076] In some embodiments, such as Figure 3 As shown, the electrochromic device 100 also includes a third filler 123, which is connected to the end of the second filler 122 away from the first filler 121.

[0077] In this embodiment, as Figure 3 As shown, the first filling body 121, the second filling body 122, and the third filling body 123 are integrally formed and are made of the same material, reducing costs and simplifying the process. In other embodiments, the first filling body 121, the second filling body 122, and the third filling body 123 can be formed separately or made of different materials.

[0078] For example, adding weather-resistant materials to the materials within the first filling body 121 and the second filling body 122 makes the weather resistance of the first filling body 121 stronger than that of the second filling body 122, and the weather resistance of the second filling body 122 stronger than that of the third filling body 123, thereby reducing the probability of reaction between the materials of the metal mesh conductive layer 120 and the electrochromic layer 140.

[0079] For example, by adding a material with higher conductivity to the first filler 121 and the second filler 122, the conductivity of the first filler 121 is higher than that of the second filler 122, and the conductivity of the second filler 122 is higher than that of the third filler 123, thereby accelerating the reaction speed and color-changing efficiency of the electrochromic layer 140.

[0080] In one embodiment, such as Figure 3 As shown, the width of the third filling body 123 gradually decreases along the direction from the groove opening 1111 to the bottom of the groove.

[0081] For example, such as Figure 3 As shown, along the direction from the groove opening 1111 to the bottom of the groove, the width of the third filling body 123 decreases linearly, making the edge of the longitudinal section of the third filling body 123 (near the groove wall of the groove 111) oblique, with an inclination angle of 15°~75°; this increases the bonding area between the third filling body 123 and the groove wall of the groove 111, thereby enhancing the bonding force and reducing the processing difficulty and production cost.

[0082] For example, along the direction from the groove opening 1111 to the bottom of the groove, the width of the third filling body 123 decreases exponentially, making the edge of the longitudinal section of the third filling body 123 (near the groove wall of the groove 111) curved, increasing the bonding area between the third filling body 123 and the groove wall of the groove 111, thereby enhancing the bonding force.

[0083] In some embodiments, the maximum width of the third filling body 123 is less than or equal to the maximum width of the second filling body 122.

[0084] like Figure 3 As shown, the third filler 123 has the largest width at the end closest to the electrochromic layer 140 and the smallest width at the end furthest from the electrochromic layer 140. The second filler 122 has the largest width at the end closest to the third filler 123 and the smallest width at the end furthest from the third filler 123. That is, the ends with the largest widths of the third filler 123 and the second filler 122 are connected.

[0085] like Figure 3 As shown, when the maximum width of the third filling body 123 is equal to the maximum width of the second filling body 122, an outwardly protruding structure is formed at the connection between the third filling body 123 and the second filling body 122. When the metal mesh layer is subjected to axial force, the outwardly protruding structure will be squeezed, increasing the friction with the groove wall, forming a self-locking mechanism, and improving the stability of the connection.

[0086] When the maximum width of the third filling body 123 is less than the maximum width of the second filling body 122, the material consumption of the third filling body 123 is reduced, thereby reducing costs.

[0087] In some embodiments, such as Figure 3 As shown, along the direction from the slot opening 1111 to the bottom of the slot, the projections of the third filling body 123 and the first filling body 121 are both located within the projection of the second filling body 122, so that the metal mesh conductive layer 120 presents a "shuttle-shaped" structure that is wide in the middle and narrow at both ends.

[0088] like Figure 3 As shown, the wider portion in the middle of the metal mesh conductive layer 120 can provide stronger support, enhancing the rigidity and stability of the entire connection. When subjected to external forces, the wider portion in the middle can better resist deformation and maintain the integrity of the structure. At the same time, the wider portion in the middle can better disperse the stress applied to the metal mesh conductive layer 120, reducing local stress concentration and helping to extend the service life of the metal mesh conductive layer 120. Secondly, the larger contact area between the side of the "shuttle-shaped" structure and the groove wall of the groove 111 can provide greater friction, greatly reducing the probability of the metal mesh conductive layer 120 loosening or falling off during use.

[0089] Without increasing the amount of metal paste, the "shuttle-shaped" structure enables deeper metal embedding, thereby achieving higher conductivity (lower sheet resistance) in the metal mesh conductive layer 120. Simultaneously, this "shuttle-shaped" structure reduces the light-shielding area of ​​the metal mesh conductive layer 120, increasing the light transmittance of the substrate layer 110.

[0090] In some embodiments, such as Figure 3 As shown, the side of the second filling body 122 is connected to the groove wall of the groove 111. At the same time, the end face of the second filling body 122 away from the electrochromic layer 140 is connected to the third filling body 123. The side of the third filling body 123 is connected to the groove wall of the groove 111. At the same time, the end face of the third filling body 123 away from the electrochromic layer 140 is connected to the bottom of the groove 111.

[0091] like Figure 3 As shown, the substrate layer 110 includes a first base layer 112, a second base layer 113, and a third base layer 114 arranged sequentially. A groove 111 is formed through the first base layer 112 and the second base layer 113. The third base layer 114 is connected to the side of the second base layer 113 away from the electrochromic layer 140. The side of the second filler 122 is connected to the first base layer 112. The end face of the second filler 122 away from the electrochromic layer 140 is connected to the third filler 123. The side of the third filler 123 is connected to the second base layer 113. The end face of the third filler 123 away from the electrochromic layer 140 is connected to the third base layer 114.

[0092] In some embodiments, such as Figure 3 As shown, in the direction from the groove opening 1111 to the bottom of the groove, the groove 111 includes a first groove body 1112, a second groove body 1113 and a third groove body 1114 connected in sequence.

[0093] like Figure 3 As shown, the first groove 1112 is close to the electrochromic layer 140, and the first filling body 121 is located in the first groove 1112. The width of the first filling body 121 is smaller than the width of the first groove 1112, so that the side of the first filling body 121 is spaced apart from the side of the first groove 111, forming a sub-groove 1115.

[0094] The second tank 1113 is connected to the side of the first tank 1112 away from the electrochromic layer 140, and the second filler 122 fills the second tank 1113 and contacts the tank wall of the second tank 1113.

[0095] The third tank 1114 is connected to the side of the second tank 1113 away from the electrochromic layer 140. The third filler 123 fills the third tank 1114 and contacts the tank wall and bottom of the third tank 1114.

[0096] In some embodiments, the end face of the metal mesh conductive layer 120 facing the electrochromic layer 140 is located within the groove 111, so that the entire metal mesh layer is housed within the groove 111, protecting the metal mesh layer and reducing the possibility of the metal mesh layer being bumped or detached from the groove 111 under external force. Simultaneously, the increased spacing between the metal mesh conductive layer 120 and the electrochromic layer 140 prevents reactions between the material of the metal mesh conductive layer 120 (such as silver or copper) and the material of the electrochromic layer 140, thereby improving the weather resistance of the electrochromic device 100.

[0097] In one embodiment, such as Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the metal mesh conductive layer 120 is 5μm-10μm away from the groove opening of the groove 111. The distance between the end face of the metal mesh conductive layer 120 facing the electrochromic layer 140 and the end face of the substrate layer 110 facing the electrochromic layer 140 is 5μm-10μm.

[0098] Specifically, the distance between the end face of the metal mesh conductive layer 120 facing the electrochromic layer 140 and the end face of the substrate layer 110 facing the electrochromic layer 140 is 5μm, 5.5μm, 6μm, 6.5μm, 7μm, 7.5μm, 8μm, 8.5μm, 9μm, 9.5μm, 10μm, etc., and is not limited to the example distance. When the distance is greater than 10μm, the volume of the first filling body 121 is smaller, and the volume of the sub-groove 1115 and the filling part is correspondingly reduced, which reduces the bonding force between the filling part and the metal mesh conductive layer 120. When the distance is less than 5μm, the metal mesh conductive layer 120 is too close to the surface of the substrate layer 110, which reduces the thickness of the covering part 132, making the covering part 132 too thin, which is not conducive to structural stability.

[0099] In some embodiments, the thickness of the metal mesh conductive layer 120 ( Figure 2 and Figure 3 H) and width ( Figure 2 and Figure 3 The ratio of D in the equation is greater than or equal to 1.

[0100] In some embodiments, the maximum width of the metal mesh conductive layer 120 ( Figure 2 and Figure 3 The D in the figure is 5-20 μm, and the depth is ( Figure 2 and Figure 3 The H in the sample is 3-10 μm.

[0101] Specifically, the ratio of the depth to the width of the metal mesh conductive layer 120 is 1, 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 1.4, 1.5, 1.6, 1.7, 1.8, 1.9, 2, etc., and is not limited to the values ​​in the examples.

[0102] In some embodiments, the conductivity of the protective layer 130 is less than that of the metal mesh conductive layer 120.

[0103] The protective layer 130 is used to prevent the reaction between the metal mesh conductive layer 120 (such as silver or copper) and the electrochromic material, as well as the spontaneous ion migration of the filler material under voltage and photothermal effects; at the same time, it can prevent the surface of the electrochromic layer 140 from being scratched.

[0104] The protective layer 130 is electrically connected to the metal mesh conductive layer 120. Thus, when the metal mesh conductive layer 120 is energized, the current is transmitted through the protective layer 130 to the electrochromic layer 140, changing the optical state of the electrochromic layer 140, so that the device having the electrochromic device 100 exhibits reversible changes in color and transparency in appearance.

[0105] In some embodiments, the conductivity of the metal mesh conductive layer 120 ranges from (5-100) x 10⁻⁶. ^6 S / m, sheet resistance is 0.1-100Ω / cm 2 The sheet resistance of the protective layer 130 is 20~500Ω / cm. 2 .

[0106] The protective layer 130 has a single-layer structure or a multi-layer structure.

[0107] For example, in Figure 1 In the middle, the protective layer 130 adopts a single-layer structure.

[0108] For example, in Figure 2 and Figure 3 In the middle, the protective layer 130 adopts a double-layer structure. The filling part 131 and the covering part 132 located in the groove 111 are one protective layer, and the covering part 132 outside the groove 111 is another protective layer.

[0109] When the protective layer 130 is a single-layer structure, the protective layer 130 is formed by a coating process, and the material of the protective layer 130 includes, but is not limited to, any one of ITO, AZO, and ZnO.

[0110] When the protective layer 130 has a multi-layer structure, the protective layer 130 has no more than four layers and is made by multiple coatings or multiple platings.

[0111] For example, the protective layer 130 is composed of a passivation layer (SiN). x The protective layer 130 is formed by combining SiO2 and conductive polymers (PEDOT: PSS, P3HT, PDDT, PPV, etc.), and the protective layer 130 is composed of a passivation layer (SiN). x It is formed by combining SiO2 and ITO layers.

[0112] In some embodiments, the corrosion resistance of the protective layer 130 is greater than that of the metal mesh conductive layer 120.

[0113] Corrosion resistance refers to weather resistance and chemical stability. The corrosion resistance of the protective layer 130 is greater than that of the metal mesh conductive layer 120, enabling the protective layer 130 to prevent metal ions from the metal mesh conductive layer 120 from precipitating into the protective layer 130. This also prevents metal ions from the metal mesh conductive layer 120 from precipitating into the color-changing material layer, improving the weather resistance of the electrochromic device 100 and making the structure of the electrochromic device 100 more stable.

[0114] This application also discloses a method for manufacturing an electrochromic device 100, comprising: Step S10, as follows Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, a second base layer 113, a third base layer 114 and a fourth base layer 115 are obtained. A UV-curable adhesive is coated on the surface of the second base layer 113, and the second base layer 113 with a groove 111 structure is formed by photomask exposure etching. Step S20, as follows Figure 6 As shown, a metal mesh conductive layer 120 is then deposited using a magnetron sputtering / electroplating process; Step S30, as follows Figure 7 As shown, a high-precision screen is used to cover the groove 111 by misalignment (offset 10-20μm), and excess metal is removed by chemical etching, while retaining the metal mesh conductive layer 120 in the groove 111, and forming the upper section of the metal mesh conductive layer 120 with a natural tilt angle of 30-60° on the sidewall. Step S40, as follows Figure 8 As shown, after coating the metal traces with OC resin, the resin is precisely cured at the trace gaps by UV exposure or thermal curing process. Step S50, as follows Figure 9 As shown, after removing the uncured resin, the first base layer 112 formed after curing is flat and raised 3-5 μm above the metal surface; Step S60, as follows Figure 10 As shown, a protective layer 130 (such as ITO or a composite coating) is finally plated or coated on the surface.

[0115] This application also provides a terminal product, including the electrochromic device 100 in any of the above embodiments. Therefore, it has all the beneficial effects of the electrochromic device 100 in any of the above embodiments, which will not be described in detail here.

[0116] Among them, end products include any one of the following: rearview mirrors, curtain walls, automotive sunroofs, automotive side windows, automotive windshields, housings of electronic products, eyeglasses, and display panels of electronic products.

[0117] In the description of this specification, the references to terms such as "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., refer to specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described in connection with that embodiment or example, which are included in at least one embodiment or example of this application. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples. Moreover, without contradiction, those skilled in the art can combine and integrate the different embodiments or examples described in this specification, as well as the features of different embodiments or examples.

[0118] Although embodiments of this application have been shown and described above, it is understood that the above embodiments are exemplary and should not be construed as limiting this application. Those skilled in the art can make changes, modifications, substitutions and variations to the above embodiments within the scope of this application.

Claims

1. An electrochromic device, characterized in that, include: Electrochromic layer; The substrate layer has a groove with the opening facing the electrochromic layer; A metal mesh conductive layer is embedded in the groove, and at least a portion of the side surface of the metal mesh conductive layer cooperates with the groove wall corresponding to the groove opening to form a sub-groove; and A protective layer is disposed between the electrochromic layer and the substrate layer, the protective layer filling the sub-groove and covering the surface of the metal mesh conductive layer near the groove opening.

2. The electrochromic device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The conductive metal mesh layer includes a first filler, at least a portion of the side of the first filler mates with the trench wall to form the sub-groove, wherein: Along the direction from the bottom of the groove to the opening, the width of the first filling body gradually decreases; and / or The width of the sub-slot gradually increases along the direction from the bottom of the slot to the opening of the slot.

3. The electrochromic device according to claim 2, characterized in that, The conductive metal mesh layer further includes a second filler. Along the direction from the groove opening to the bottom of the groove, the first filler and the second filler are sequentially embedded in the groove and connected to each other, and the second filler is in contact with the groove wall.

4. The electrochromic device according to claim 3, characterized in that, Along the direction from the opening to the bottom of the groove, the width of the second filling body gradually increases; and / or The minimum width of the second filling body is greater than or equal to the maximum width of the first filling body.

5. The electrochromic device according to claim 3, characterized in that, Along the direction from the opening to the bottom of the groove, the groove includes a first groove and a second groove that are interconnected, the first filling body is located in the first groove, and the second filling body fills the second groove and contacts the groove wall of the second groove; The width of the first filling body is smaller than the width of the first groove body; and / or The width of the first groove gradually increases along the direction from the bottom of the groove to the opening of the groove.

6. The electrochromic device according to claim 3, characterized in that, The electrochromic device further includes a third filling body, which is connected to the end of the second filling body away from the first filling body; Along the direction from the opening to the bottom of the groove, the width of the third filling body gradually decreases; and / or The maximum width of the third filling body is less than or equal to the maximum width of the second filling body; and / or Along the direction from the opening to the bottom of the groove, the projections of the third filling body and the first filling body are both located within the projection of the second filling body.

7. The electrochromic device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, The thickness of the metal mesh conductive layer is less than the depth of the groove, and the distance between the metal mesh conductive layer and the groove opening is 5μm-10μm. The ratio of the thickness to the width of the metal mesh conductive layer is greater than or equal to 1.

8. The electrochromic device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, The conductivity of the protective layer is less than that of the metal mesh conductive layer.

9. The electrochromic device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, The corrosion resistance of the protective layer is greater than that of the metal mesh conductive layer.

10. A terminal product, characterized in that, The electrochromic device includes any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the end product includes any one of a rearview mirror, curtain wall, car sunroof, car side window, car windshield, housing of electronic product, glasses, and display panel of electronic product.

Images