Glazing unit with light modulation and reception of radio frequency signals

Abstract

A glazing unit (101) configured to receive radio frequency signals is provided, the glazing unit (101) having an optical layer (143) containing electrophoretically charged particles and disposed between a first substrate (141) and a second substrate (142), with electrodes (122, 123) on the substrates (141, 142) cooperating in electrophoretic modulation of the positions of the charged particles to cause modulation of light passing through the glazing unit (101). The glazing unit (101) has at least one antenna (121) for receiving radio frequency signals. The antenna (121) may be disposed on a side of the substrates (141, 142) or on a side of a pane (111, 112), such as a glass pane.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The subject matter of the present disclosure relates to glazing units and substrates. [Background technology]

[0002] Optically active glazing systems are known in the art. Typically, an optically active glazing system comprises two parallel plates made of a transparent dielectric material, such as glass or a plastic material. The internal volume defined between the plates can be subdivided into a plurality of small, independent volumes or individual cells filled with a dielectric fluid. The fluid contains a suspension of particles of a dielectric, charged, or chargeable material. Facing sides of the two plates carry electrodes facing each other. The electrodes are connected to a power source associated with a control means.

[0003] The electrodes on each plate are arranged in a comb-like pattern, alternating with each other in pairs. The two alternating comb-shaped electrodes can be voltaged with the same or opposite polarity. By applying appropriate voltages to the electrodes, the particles can be concentrated at different locations between the electrodes, giving the system a transparent or opaque appearance.

[0004] Known systems of optically active glazing are described in WO 2022 / 029018, which is incorporated herein by reference. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] International Publication No. 2022 / 029018 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] It would be advantageous to have improved optically active glazing. In particular, it would be advantageous to have improved optically active glazing units. It would be advantageous to have improved substrates for use in optical modulators and / or glazing units to improve said optical modulators and / or glazing units.

[0007] Existing optical glazing units suffer from various drawbacks. First, they require power to operate, particularly to transition from one grayscale level to another. Second, glazing units can attenuate RF signals. For example, wireless signals carrying data may not penetrate glazing units well, which can result in difficulties in sending or transmitting wireless signals between the interior and exterior of a building employing the glazing unit. Other issues are discussed herein. Not every issue need be addressed in every embodiment.

[0008] Both problems can be addressed by incorporating an antenna into the glazing unit.

[0009] For example, the glazing unit may include an optical modulator, also called a light modulator. For example, the glazing unit may include first and second substrates with an optical layer between them. Electrodes on the first and second substrates facing the optical layer can manipulate particles in the optical layer to create optical effects, typically variations in transparency. In one embodiment, at least two interdigitated electrodes are used on each substrate, although more or fewer electrodes are possible. In one embodiment, an electrophoretic effect is used to manipulate charged particles in the optical layer.

[0010] On the other hand, a glazing unit can include one or more panes, for example, panes of glass. Typically, at least two panes are used, with a thermal insulating layer disposed between them. There are many ways in which the panes and optical modulators can be arranged together. For example, the optical modulator can be disposed inside the two panes or outside the two panes. For example, the panes can be combined with a substrate to reduce the number of layers in the glazing unit.

[0011] Typically, the panes are glass panes. For example, one embodiment may include a first pane and a second pane of glass. The panes may also use different materials, such as plastic. Reference will be made primarily to glass panes, with the understanding that other materials may be used.

[0012] Interestingly, in one embodiment, the glazing unit comprises at least one antenna for receiving radio frequency signals, the antenna being arranged on a side of the first substrate or on a side of the first pane. Such an antenna can be used for various purposes, for example, to harvest energy from the received radio frequency signals. The harvested energy can be stored in an energy storage device, such as a battery. When a transition in the optical state is required, the stored energy can be used, at least in part, to effect the change.

[0013] The antenna may be used to receive an RF signal encoding data. For example, the radio frequency signal may be modulated according to a wireless communication standard, such as 5G. This is advantageous because the antenna is located near the exterior of the building and therefore has little or no attenuation. The received RF signal may be transmitted to an external location of the glazing unit or demodulated, e.g., decoded, within the glazing unit. For example, the received information may be transmitted via a wired connection, e.g., an Ethernet system, an internal routing system, e.g., a local computer network, LAN, or the like. The glazing unit may also act on the received information; for example, the received information may include control instructions, such as instructing the glazing unit to increase or decrease its transparency.

[0014] In one embodiment, the glazing unit may include an additional antenna disposed near the inside of the glazing unit. The additional antenna may be used to transmit information. The transmitted information may be based on the same standard, such as 5G, or a different wireless standard, such as Wi-Fi. Conventional modulation and antenna systems may be used to transmit data over wireless signals.

[0015] The glass pane may be made of glass, but may also be any transparent layer of a transparent material, for example a plastic, for example polyethylene. The substrate may be plastic or glass or something else.

[0016] In one embodiment, the glazing unit may comprise one or more transparent conductive layers, such as ITO, FTO, nanowires, etc. To reduce interference between the two systems, the transparent conductive layer may be used to shield the antenna from the optical modulator. The transparent conductive layer may be used as a ground plane to cooperate with the antenna electrode.

[0017] Interestingly, the interdigitated electrodes used for optical modulation can also be used as antennas. For example, a portion of the interdigitated electrodes can be used as a patch antenna. The portion used as a patch antenna can still carry a low-frequency DC signal used to control the optical layer. There can be multiple patch antennas made from a single layer of interdigitated electrodes. For example, a low-pass filter can separate the patch from the rest of the interdigitated electrodes. An advantageous method for fabricating patch antennas is to use a stepper machine. The stepper repeats building blocks for most of the substrate but uses different blocks for the portion that also serves as an antenna. The different portion can incorporate filter connections, for example.

[0018] Instead of reusing the interdigitated electrodes, a dedicated antenna may be used. The dedicated antenna may still be located on the same substrate, e.g., the first substrate, or it may be located elsewhere, e.g., on a glass pane.

[0019] One aspect of the present invention is a substrate according to an embodiment. For example, the substrate can have a first side and a second side, and the first side of the first substrate is disposed on an ITO layer, a dielectric layer, and one or more antennas, and the second side of the first substrate is disposed on at least two interdigitated electrodes. Various other substrates are described herein.

[0020] Further details, aspects, and embodiments of the present invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the drawings in which elements are illustrated for simplicity and clarity and are not necessarily drawn to scale. In the figures, elements corresponding to elements already described may have the same reference numerals. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0021] [Figure 1a] 1 shows a schematic front view of an example of an embodiment of a glazing unit. [Figure 1b]1 shows a schematic cross section of an example of an embodiment of a glazing unit. [Figure 1c] 1 shows a schematic cross section of an example of an embodiment of a glazing unit. [Figure 1d] 1 shows a schematic cross section of an example of an embodiment of a glazing unit. [Figure 1e] 1 shows a schematic cross section of an example of an embodiment of a glazing unit. [Figure 1f] 1 shows a schematic cross section of an example of an embodiment of a glazing unit. [Figure 2] 1 shows a schematic cross section of an example of an embodiment of a glazing unit. [Figure 3] 1 illustrates a schematic diagram of an example of an embodiment of a glazing unit. [Figure 4] 1 illustrates schematically an example embodiment of an antenna; [Figure 5] 1 shows a schematic front view of an example of an embodiment of a glazing unit. [Figure 6a] 1 shows a schematic cross section of an example of an embodiment of a glazing unit. [Figure 6b] 1 shows a schematic cross section of an example of an embodiment of a glazing unit. [Figure 6c] 1 shows a schematic cross section of an example of an embodiment of a glazing unit. [Figure 6d] 1 shows a schematic cross section of an example of an embodiment of a glazing unit. [Figure 7a] 1A and 1B show schematic front views of an example of an embodiment of a building block. [Figure 7b] 1A and 1B schematically illustrate a front view of an example of an embodiment of a substrate. [Figure 7c] 1A and 1B schematically illustrate a front view of an example of an embodiment of a substrate. [Figure 8a] 1A and 1B show schematic front views of an example of an embodiment of an interdigitated electrode. [Figure 8b] 1A and 1B show schematic front views of an example of an embodiment of an interdigitated electrode. [Figure 8c]1A and 1B show schematic front views of an example of an embodiment of an interdigitated electrode. [Figure 8d] 1A and 1B show schematic front views of an example of an embodiment of an interdigitated electrode. [Figure 8e] 1A and 1B show schematic front views of an example of an embodiment of an interdigitated electrode. [Figure 8f] 1A and 1B show schematic front views of an example of an embodiment of an interdigitated electrode. [Figure 9a] 1A and 1B show schematic front views of an example of an embodiment of an interdigitated electrode. [Figure 9b] 1A and 1B show schematic front views of an example of an embodiment of an interdigitated electrode. [Figure 10] 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of an embodiment of a vehicle. [Figure 11a] 1 shows a schematic cross section of an example of an embodiment of a glazing unit. [Figure 11b] 1 shows a schematic cross section of an example of an embodiment of a glazing unit. [Figure 11c] 1 shows a schematic cross section of an example of an embodiment of a glazing unit.

[0022] List of Reference Numbers A,B virtual intersection line 100 glazing units 101 Exterior of building 102 Inside the building 111 Glass Pane 112 Glass Pane 121 One or more antennas 122 Interdigitated electrodes for optical modulation 123 Interdigitated electrodes for optical modulation 124 Internal Antenna 130 clips 131 Clip support plate and substrate protrusion 141 First substrate 142 Second board 143 Optical layer containing charged particles for light modulation 144 Insulating Layer 150 Capacitor 151 Connection from antenna 152 Capacitor to Controller Connection 153 Connection for driving electrode 122 154 Connection for driving electrode 123 160 Controller 251 Dielectric 252 Connector 253 Ground plane 254 Conductive Fins 255 Non-conductive fins 601 Glazing Unit 610 RF signal contact 630 Interleaved electrodes 631 First part of interdigitated electrode 632 Second part of interdigitated electrode 633, 643 DC contact for gray scale control 640 Interdigitated electrodes 641 First part of interdigitated electrode 642 Second part of interdigitated electrode 621, 622 board 650 Glass Pane 611 RF Grounding 651 Thermal Insulation 653 Outside of glazing unit 654 Inside the glazing unit 700-701 PCB 711-714 Main Line 721-724 Main Line 731-734 Interleaved electrodes 740 Building Blocks 741-744 Building Blocks 710, 720 driving bus 719, 729 Connection Zone 760 Connection 791, 792 direction 10 Optical Modulator 11 First substrate 12 Second board 13, 13a, 13b electrode 14, 14a, 14b electrode 15 Fluid 30 particles 20. Automobiles 21 Optical Modulator DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0023] While the subject matter of the present disclosure is susceptible to embodiment in many different forms, one or more specific embodiments have been shown in the drawings and will be described in detail herein, with the understanding that the present disclosure is to be considered as an exemplification of the principles of the subject matter of the present disclosure and is not intended to be limited to the specific embodiments shown and described.

[0024] In the following, for the sake of understanding, elements of the embodiments are described in terms of operations. However, it will be apparent that each element is configured to perform the function that it is described to perform. Furthermore, the presently disclosed subject matter is not limited to the embodiments only, but also includes any other combination of features described herein or recited in mutually different dependent claims.

[0025] For example, a substrate for use in a light modulator is disclosed. The substrate as described herein is advantageous because it enables the construction, manufacture, repair, etc. of a glazing unit as described herein.

[0026] Optical light modulation, as described in known systems in the background art, is useful, for example, in glazing units, whose optical properties, such as transparency, gray level, etc., can be modulated using electrical control signals, thereby, for example, avoiding or reducing the need for sunscreens.

[0027] Interestingly, optically modulated glazing units, also referred to as smart glazing units, can include multiple electrodes, for example, as described further herein. Insight has emerged that such electrodes may further be used for receiving and / or transmitting data and / or harvesting energy. Instead of, or in addition to, using interdigitated electrodes of an optical modulator for these purposes, one or more additional antennas may be added to the glazing unit. The one or more antennas may be configured to perform one or more of receiving and / or transmitting data and / or harvesting energy.

[0028] Glazing units equipped with optical modulators may be further improved for electrical and wireless signals acting thereon. In a first embodiment, the wireless signal received by the optically modulating glazing unit is used to charge an energy storage unit, such as a battery. In a second embodiment, the wireless signal received by the optically modulating glazing unit is used to recover the data transmitted by the wireless signal. In a third embodiment, the wireless signal is transmitted from the optically modulating glazing unit.

[0029] A glazing unit configured to receive radio frequency signals is provided, the glazing unit having an optical layer disposed between a first substrate and a second substrate, where electrodes on the substrates cooperate in electrophoretic modulation of particle positions to cause modulation of light passing through the glazing unit. The glazing unit has at least one antenna for receiving the radio frequency signals. The antenna may be disposed on a side of the substrate or on a side of the glass pane.

[0030] 1a shows a schematic front view of an example of one embodiment of a glazing unit 100. The glazing unit 100 is viewed in a direction such that light passing through the glazing unit is directed, for example, from the exterior of a building to the interior. A glazing unit typically comprises multiple glass panes separated, for example, by insulating layers. A glazing unit typically comprises multiple substrates separated, for example, by optically modulating layers.

[0031] Each substrate may have a plurality of interdigitated drive electrodes applied to the substrate, each of the plurality of drive electrodes arranged in a pattern across the substrate, with the plurality of interdigitated drive electrodes alternating with one another on the substrate. The pattern of drive electrodes across the substrate may comprise a plurality of repeating building blocks. For example, a stepper may apply the building blocks to the substrate during fabrication. The building blocks may have lateral dimensions of, for example, 4 mm to 10 mm, or smaller or larger. The building blocks are typically square, but may have other shapes, for example, rectangular.

[0032] For example, the glazing unit shown in Figure 1a may be integrated into a building. The letters A and B in Figure 1a indicate the intersection lines, which may be considered as the intersection lines between Figures 1b to 1f and Figure 2.

[0033] Figures 1b to 1f show schematic cross-sections of an example of one embodiment of a glazing unit, taken along line AB of glazing unit 100 of Figure 1a.

[0034] Figure lb shows a schematic cross-section of an example of one embodiment of a glazing unit. For clarity, the side of the glazing unit that is typically used on the outside is at the top with reference number 101, and the side of the glazing unit that is typically used on the inside is at the bottom with reference number 102. For example, 101 may be the outside of a building and 102 may be the inside of a building.

[0035] The glazing unit comprises a first glass pane 111 and a second glass pane 112. The first and second glass panes are parallel to one another and form a glazing unit housing. The glazing unit comprises a first substrate 141 and a second substrate 142. The first and second substrates are disposed within the glazing unit parallel to the first and second glass panes; in this case, the first and second substrates are between the first and second glass panes.

[0036] A first side of the first substrate faces a first glass pane 111. A second side of the second substrate faces a second glass pane 112. In this example, the first and second substrates are positioned on the inside of the glazing unit between the two glass panes.

[0037] The first and second substrates form an optical modulator, also known as a light modulator. Electrophoretic optical modulators, for example, use electrophoretic forces to move charged particles. Typically, at least two interdigitated electrodes are disposed on the second side of the first substrate, with the second side of the first substrate facing the first side of the second substrate. At least two interdigitated electrodes are disposed on the first side of the second substrate, with the first side of the second substrate facing the first substrate. An optical layer 143 is disposed between the first and second substrates, and charged or chargeable particles are fluid-suspended within the optical layer. The particles and electrodes on the first and second substrates are configured to cooperate in electrophoretic modulation of the particle positions, causing modulation of light passing through the glazing unit.

[0038] For example, known systems illustrate how such optical modulators function, and examples are also provided with reference to Figures 11a to 11c described below.

[0039] The glazing unit includes at least one antenna 121 for receiving radio frequency signals, the antenna being located on a side of the first substrate or on a side of the first glass pane. In this example, antenna 121 is located on the outside of glass pane 111. The glass panels may be coated or uncoated. For example, in one embodiment, glass panel 111 may be uncoated and glass panel 112 may be coated.

[0040] In this example, the glazing unit is an insulating glazing unit comprising at least two glass panes. An insulating layer 144 is disposed between the two glass panes. In this example, the insulating layer 144 is between the second substrate 142 and the second pane 112. The insulating layer 144 can be a vacuum or may contain an insulating gas, for example, argon. A glazing unit may have two or more thermal insulating layers and three or more glass panes.

[0041] The glazing unit may include a controller 160 connected to at least two interdigitated electrodes on the first substrate and / or at least two interdigitated electrodes on the second substrate to control the optical layer. The controller 160 may be configured to receive control signals to instruct control of the optical layer. For example, the controller 160 may receive commands from outside the glazing unit to increase or decrease the transparency of the glazing unit. In response, the controller 160 may arrange particles in the optical layer according to the commands. For example, the control signals to the interdigitated electrodes may include DC signals that are out of phase or out of phase with some pairs of electrodes, while other pairs of electrodes receive the same or in-phase signals. The phase and the selected electrodes partially determine the optical effect.

[0042] There is no need for a controller 160. For example, instead of having control within the glazing unit, the glazing unit may receive control signals directly from outside the glazing unit, for example from an external controller.

[0043] The glazing unit comprises an antenna 121 for interacting with RF signals, e.g. wireless electrical signals, e.g. antenna signals, e.g. radio frequency signals. The number and type of antennas depends, for example, on the type of interaction. The antenna may be an additional electrode(s), but it is also possible to reuse interdigitated electrodes for further purposes.

[0044] For example, in one embodiment, the at least one antenna may comprise a first antenna configured to harvest power from a received radio frequency signal, e.g., the received signal may be downconverted, e.g., to DC, and used to charge an energy storage unit, e.g., a capacitor, battery, etc. (not separately shown).

[0045] For example, the controller 160, if present, may be arranged to derive power from the antenna signal to at least partially drive the interdigitated electrodes 122, 123 on the first and second substrates 141, 142. This has the advantage that no or less external power is required to increase or decrease the transparency of the glazing unit. This is an example of a first antenna.

[0046] Antenna 121 may be configured to recover the RF modulated data from the received radio frequency signal and may be, for example, a second antenna, which may be external to the first glass pane.

[0047] The glazing unit may also include an antenna, such as a third antenna, configured to retransmit the recovered RF-modulated data after remodulation. For example, data obtained from an external antenna may be retransmitted internally. This third antenna type is not shown in Figure 1b.

[0048] The combination of the second antenna and the third antenna has the advantage that radio frequency signals, e.g., antenna signals that do not easily penetrate the glazing unit due to a coating, etc., can still be received inside the building. Similarly, an inside receiving antenna and an outside transmitting antenna facilitates a transmitting device inside, e.g., inside the building, to transmit to an outside, e.g., outside the building. For example, smartphone reception in a building with a glazing unit according to one embodiment and / or smartphone transmission in a building with a glazing unit according to one embodiment can be improved.

[0049] For example, the glazing unit may include a radio frequency demodulator and / or a radio frequency modulator; for example, the controller 160 may be configured accordingly, or additional circuitry may be added to the glazing unit. Both frequency modulation and demodulation are not required. For example, the received signal may be transferred via a wired connection. The wired received signal may be transferred via an antenna. The antenna signal may include a 5G signal. The internal transmission signal may be a Wi-Fi signal. For example, received 5G data may be transferred as Wi-Fi data.

[0050] Interestingly, the frequency of the RF antenna signal is quite different from the frequency of the DC signal used to control the interdigitated electrodes of the optical modulator portion. For example, the interdigitated electrodes on the first and second substrates may be controlled with an electrical signal having a frequency less than 1 kHz, preferably less than 100 Hz, while the antenna signal may be greater than 100 MHz or even 1 GHz. This difference allows for the reuse of all or part of the interdigitated electrodes, as further described herein.

[0051] The antenna 121 may comprise one or more patch elements configured as a patch antenna, and may be connected to or through a capacitor for tuning the antenna.

[0052] In Figure 1b, the exterior of the building 101 is shown to the interior of the building 102: Shown are a glass pane 111; one or more antennas 121 for receiving external antenna signals; a first substrate 141; interdigitated electrodes 122 for light modulation; an optical layer 143 containing charged particles for light modulation; interdigitated electrodes 123 for light modulation; a second substrate 142; an insulating layer 144; and a glass pane 112.

[0053] The glass pane may be glass and the substrate may be polyethylene, but this is not required. Both the pane and the substrate may be plastic, or both may be glass, or the choice may be made as needed. Preferably, the substrate is a dielectric and glass, and both substrates are transparent. Preferably, transparent electrodes are also used. Instead of transparent, translucent materials may be used.

[0054] Figure 1b also shows a controller 160 connected to the antenna 121 and the interdigitated electrodes 122 and 123. An internal antenna is not shown and may not be required in some embodiments.

[0055] Figures 1c to 1f are similar and are briefly described below.

[0056] FIG. 1c shows a schematic cross-section of an example of one embodiment of a glazing unit. In FIG. 1c, a glass pane 111 and a substrate 141 are combined. For example, either the glass pane or the substrate may be used. Electrodes and / or antennas may be applied to the sides of the glass pane or to the substrate, as needed. For example, the glass pane and the substrate may be combined, e.g., glued. The advantage of the arrangement of FIG. 1c is that fewer layers are required and the antenna 121 is on the outside of the glazing unit for improved reception. Protective coatings may be applied to the electrodes, particularly the antenna 121, and / or to the interdigitated electrodes.

[0057] Figure 1d shows a schematic cross-section of an example of an embodiment of a glazing unit, in which the optical modulator is arranged on the outside of the glass panes rather than between the panes.

[0058] In Figure 1b, the exterior of the building 101 is shown to the interior of the building 102: Shown are one or more antennas 121 for receiving external antenna signals; a first substrate 141; interdigitated electrodes 122 for light modulation; an optical layer 143 containing charged particles for light modulation; interdigitated electrodes 123 for light modulation; a second substrate 142; a glass pane 111; an insulating layer 144; and a glass pane 112. Layers 142 and 111 can be combined as in FIG. 1c.

[0059] The advantage of this arrangement is that the antenna 121 is also outside the glass pane.

[0060] FIG. 1e shows a schematic cross-section of an example of an embodiment of a glazing unit. This embodiment combines interdigitated electrodes 122 with an antenna 121. For example, all or part of the interdigitated electrodes may be used as the antenna 121. The remaining part of the interdigitated electrodes may be used for optical modulation. For example, a low-pass or high-pass filter may be used to separate the signals. If only part of the interdigitated electrodes is used as the antenna 121, they may be connected to a DC-passing RF blocking connection, such as an inductor. For example, the cutoff may be set above 1 kHz, 1 MHz, 1 GHz, etc.

[0061] Figure 1f shows a schematic cross section of an example of one embodiment of a glazing unit, in which layers 111 and 141 may be combined.

[0062] In these examples, e.g., the examples of Figures 1b through 1f, a ground plane may be added to the antenna if desired. The ground plane may be added, for example, to the side of the substrate, glass pane, etc. Alternatively, an interdigitated electrode on a second substrate may be used as the ground plane. Preferably, the ground plane faces the antenna.

[0063] The ground plane may be implemented, for example, as a conductive transparent layer, for example ITO or FTO, or any other transparent electrode, for example nanowires (such as silver). The ground plane may be on glass. The ground plane may also be called a ground electrode.

[0064] The embodiment may be modified in many ways. For example, in one embodiment, a shielding layer may be added.

[0065] For example, in one embodiment, as viewed from the outside of a building, there may be layers such as: a first glass pane; one or more antennas; a complete dielectric layer; a complete ITO layer; a first substrate; a first modulator electrode pattern; an optical layer; a second modulator electrode pattern; a second substrate. In this example, the antenna, e.g., antenna 121, is shielded from the interdigitated electrodes. This has the advantage of reducing interference between the antenna and the interdigitated electrodes.

[0066] For example, in one embodiment, there may be layers as seen from the outside of the building: an antenna electrode; a dielectric layer; a complete ITO on the outside of the glass pane; a glass pane acting as the complete dielectric layer; a first dielectric substrate; a first modulator electrode pattern; an optical layer; a second modulator electrode pattern; a second substrate, etc. The first glass pane and substrate may be combined into one layer.

[0067] For example, in one embodiment, looking from the outside of a building, there may be layers such as: an antenna electrode; a first glass pane acting as a complete dielectric layer; complete ITO on the side of the glass pane facing the first substrate; a first substrate; a first modulator electrode pattern; an optical layer; a second modulator electrode pattern; a second substrate.

[0068] For example, in one embodiment, from the outside of a building, there may be layers such as: a glass pane; a first substrate; a first modulator electrode pattern with an embedded antenna patch; an optical layer; a second modulator electrode pattern; a second substrate.

[0069] The antenna patch may optionally comprise an additional antenna electrode that is insulated from the interdigitated electrode. The antenna patch may also be part of the interdigitated electrode. Note that the interdigitated electrodes are in close proximity to each other and can therefore act as an antenna patch.

[0070] The ground plane can be inserted at any suitable point, or one of the interdigitated electrode sets can be used as the ground plane. The ground plane can be a transparent conductive layer, such as ITO, FTO, nanowires, etc.

[0071] The ITO layer can be, for example, a complete ITO layer on the side of the glass substrate where the electrodes are located. Thus, the antenna electrode is better insulated from the electrodes used in the modulator. The substrate can be coated with a complete ITO layer, then coated entirely with a dielectric, and then coated with the optical modulator electrode pattern. The dielectric layer does not need to be a complete dielectric layer; for example, the dielectric layer only needs to insulate the antenna from the ITO. Generally speaking, another conductive, transparent layer, such as FTO, can be used instead of ITO. Similarly, an ITO layer can be used on the other side of the glass substrate, with the glass substrate acting as the dielectric.

[0072] High frequency signals can be added on top of or filtered out of the low frequency signals used for optical modulation without interfering with the optical modulation.

[0073] The antenna may be an antenna array. The antenna and ground plane may be embedded in an interdigitated electrode. For example, the interdigitated electrode may be conveniently manufactured using a stepper. The stepper may use different tiles and / or different connections for the antenna.

[0074] The signals arriving at the antenna are at modulated frequencies. In the case of embedded MIMO Tx / Rx antennas, the frequencies may be slightly different but all within the same bandwidth, e.g., in the GHz range. Each subcarrier can be steered by a beamforming algorithm.

[0075] In the case of internal Tx / Rx, the signals arriving at the patch antenna are at similar frequencies and the antenna beam can be fixed.

[0076] The optical modulator is controlled by a relatively low frequency DC signal, so the patch antenna and / or RF ground can be isolated from the optical modulator.

[0077] One option for the RF ground is a continuous ITO surface laid on the interior side of the glass pane of the glazing panel. An alternative is to use a second interdigitated electrode layer as the RF ground plane. For example, DC / low-frequency AC can be applied to the electrodes to modulate the light, and the resulting average DC can be used as the RF reference for the antenna. The RF reference can be obtained by feeding the light modulator control signal through a bandpass filter.

[0078] For example, as the example shows, a glazing unit may comprise, from the exterior of a first glass pane: one or more antennas, a dielectric layer, an ITO layer, and a first substrate, in that order, with the dielectric layer insulating the one or more antennas from the ITO layer. Additionally, a second substrate, a second glass pane, etc. may be added. The coating may be applied to the glass pane or substrate.

[0079] For example, in one embodiment, a first substrate has an ITO layer, a dielectric layer, and one or more antennas disposed on a first side thereof.

[0080] For example, in one embodiment, an ITO layer, a dielectric layer, and one or more antennas are disposed on the side of the first glass pane facing away from the first substrate.

[0081] For example, in one embodiment, one or more antennas are disposed on a side of the first glass pane facing away from the first substrate, and an ITO layer is disposed on a first side of the first substrate.

[0082] Figure 2 shows a schematic cross-section of an example of one embodiment of a glazing unit, similar to the arrangement shown in Figure 1b, but with more detail shown in Figure 2. Similar embodiments can be constructed with the arrangements shown in Figures 1c to 1f.

[0083] 2 shows clip 130. Clip 130 surrounds the glazing unit and functions as a frame on which the pane and / or substrate can be placed. For example, clip 130 may have protrusions, such as protrusion 131, for supporting the pane and / or substrate. Clip 130 may be made of, for example, stainless steel, aluminum, or another metal. Other materials are possible for clip 130.

[0084] For example, a clip 130 may surround the glazing unit, and first and second glass panes may be attached to the clip to form a glazing unit housing. The clip may be positioned to space the first and second glass panes from each other. Separation of the first and second substrates may be achieved using separators or spacers disposed in the optical layer. There may be additional sealant layers around the glazing unit, additional spacers, etc.

[0085] The capacitor 150 shown in Figure 2 is for tuning the antenna 121, for example, to tune the antenna to 5g or the like. If tuning is not required or is achieved in another way, the capacitor may be omitted. Capacitors may be added to the glazing units of Figures 1b to 1f if required.

[0086] Shown in FIG. 2 is an optional third antenna 124 configured to retransmit the recovered RF modulated data after remodulation.

[0087] 3 shows a schematic representation of an example embodiment of a glazing unit. Note that the antenna 121 is shown in a schematic front view, while the capacitor 150 is shown in a cross-sectional view. The antenna 121 may be configured to recover RF modulated data from a received radio frequency signal. The antenna 121 may be configured to harvest energy from the received radio frequency signal.

[0088] In this example, capacitor 150 comprises a plurality of interdigitated dielectric fins 255 and conductive fins 254. A ground plane 253 is connected to a first outer dielectric fin, and a connector 252 is connected to a second outer dielectric fin. A first connection portion of antenna 121 is connected to the first outer dielectric fin, and a second connection portion of antenna 121 is connected to connector 252.

[0089] 4 shows a schematic diagram of an example of an antenna embodiment. These antenna designs are useful, for example, for energy harvesting. For example, they can be used as a first antenna configured to capture power from a received radio frequency signal. For example, they can be used as antenna 121.

[0090] For example, these antennas can be used for RF energy harvesting. The harvested signal can be downconverted to DC and thereby used to charge an energy storage system, for example a battery (not shown separately). These antennas can be isolated from the optical electrodes. Advantageously, the antenna design of Figure 4 is invisible to the user, as the antenna runs around the outside of the glazing unit.

[0091] Antenna design A may be placed along one edge of the glass pane, e.g., the first glass pane 111. Antenna design B may be placed around all edges of the glass pane. Design C may be placed around an edge, or around two edges, etc. These designs may use multiple loops, as shown, for example, in antenna D, which has two loops to increase the amount of energy harvested.

[0092] Figure 5 shows a schematic front view of an example of one embodiment of a glazing unit 600. The view shown in Figure 5 shows the glazing unit from the outside. Note that not all elements shown in Figure 5 are at the same level.

[0093] 5 shows patch antenna array A, which is a MIMO Rx array, and patch antenna array B, which is a MIMO Tx array. Antenna arrays A and B are placed outside the glass pane in this example; this reduces attenuation of radio frequency signals, e.g., antenna signals, at patch arrays A and B.

[0094] Also shown in Figure 5 are patch antenna array C, which is a beamforming Rx, and patch antenna array D, which is a beamforming Tx. The latter two arrays are, in this example, located inside the glass panes of the glazing unit to reduce attenuation of antenna signals transmitted and received from, for example, the interior of the building.

[0095] FIG. 5 further illustrates a buried RF ground plane for cooperation with the patch antenna array.

[0096] The four patch antenna array can be controlled by MIMO and / or beamforming. Note that the patches have separate feeds. The feed lengths are configured so that they are equal in length and have a resistance of 50 ohms. The size of the antenna patches can depend on the frequency they are using. The antenna signal and data are shared among the four patches. In the case of beamforming, the frequency is the same but the phase and amplitude can be different. There can be more or fewer patches. The dimensions of the patches and feeds can be varied, for example, optimized in an antenna simulation program.

[0097] For example, various antenna designs suitable for 5G communications and their design methods are described in the paper "5G MIMO Conformal Microstrip Antenna Design" by Qian Want et al., DOI: 10.1155 / 2017 / 7616825. This paper is incorporated herein by reference. For example, Figure 1 shows a model of a rectangular microstrip patch antenna. Figures 6, 10, and 14 show example arrays. Patch antennas may be implemented, for example, with monolithic metallic patches, although this is not required. Interestingly, patch antennas may also be implemented using closely spaced line electrodes. For example, the same pattern of electrodes used for optical modulation with low-frequency DC signals can be used as a patch antenna when used with high-frequency RF signals.

[0098] For example, the interdigitated electrodes can have widths ranging from, for example, 10 to 100 micrometers, and the widths, i.e., line gaps, between the electrodes can be in the same range, e.g., the minimum line gap between electrodes can be, for example, 20 μm, and the average line gap can be, for example, 50 μm.

[0099] Figure 5 shows the intersection line AA. Figures 6a to 6d show schematic cross sections of an example of an embodiment of a glazing unit.

[0100] 6a shows a schematic cross-section of an example of one embodiment of a glazing unit 601. Note that the intersection extends only through patch array A, but may extend for patch array C as well.

[0101] 6a shows a glazing unit 601 configured to receive antenna signals. In particular, the glazing unit 601 may be used for 5G signals. Other wireless RF telecommunication standards may be used as well.

[0102] The glazing unit 601 includes a first substrate 621 and a second substrate 622. The outside of the glazing unit is designated 653, and the inside is designated 654. At least two interdigitated electrodes 630 are disposed on a second side of the first substrate 621. At least two interdigitated electrodes 640 are disposed on a first side of the second substrate 622. Between the substrates 630 and 640 is an optical layer. Charged particles in the optical layer can be modulated, e.g., moved, by an electric field generated by applying a DC signal to the interdigitated electrodes. Figure 6a shows DC contacts 633 and 643 for connecting the interdigitated electrodes to a control signal. Spacers may be included in the optical layer to maintain the two substrates at the correct distance, e.g., a constant distance.

[0103] The glazing unit 601 comprises a first glass pane 650. Adjacent to the glass pane is a thermal insulating layer 651, e.g., a vacuum, a space filled with argon gas, etc. Beneath the insulating layer 651 may be a second glass pane, and beneath that a patch array C. The latter two are not shown in Figure 6a.

[0104] An RF ground plane 611 is inserted between the glass pane 650 and the insulating layer 651. For example, the ground plane 611 may be an entire ITO layer. If desired, an additional RF ground plane may be inserted between the insulating layer 651 and a second glass pane. The additional RF ground plane may be used for the patch array C.

[0105] The interdigitated electrodes 630 on the first substrate are divided into two groups: electrodes 631 and electrodes 632. Both sets contain at least two electrodes that are interdigitated to enable optical control of the optical layer. Electrode 631 is connected to RF contact 610. RF contact 610 may be, for example, a lead wire as shown in FIG. 5. Electrode 631 may be a patch as shown in FIG. 5. Electrodes 631 and 632 are connected, but through a connection, e.g., an inductor, that allows only low-frequency signals to pass. As a result, a DC control signal received at contact 633 can also modulate the optical layer below electrode 631. However, the low-pass, high-block, and connection allow the size of the patch antenna to be tuned to a specific frequency, e.g., 5G.

[0106] In one embodiment, the RF contact 610 makes electrical contact with a patch of optical electrodes. The patch comprises an interdigitated electrode. The patch is isolated from the rest of the optical electrodes from an RF perspective, and the patch is connected to the rest of the optical interdigitated electrodes through an inductor. The RF ground plane can be smaller, e.g., only below the antenna patch. A slightly larger one is preferable to avoid edge problems.

[0107] Figure 6b shows a schematic cross-section of an example of one embodiment of a glazing unit. Figure 6b is similar to Figure 6a, except that the location of the RF ground plane has been moved to between the substrate 622 and the glass pane 650. Also, the RF ground plane is smaller, as it only covers the patch antenna portion of the interdigitated electrodes.

[0108] Figure 6c shows a schematic cross-section of an example of one embodiment of a glazing unit. Figure 6c is similar to Figure 6b, except that the location of the RF ground plane has been moved between the substrates 622. For example, the RF ground plane is integrated into the substrates.

[0109] Figure 6d shows a schematic cross section of an example of one embodiment of a glazing unit. In this variant, the ground plane is made up of a portion of the interdigitated electrodes. The electrodes are connected to the RF ground contacts, for example, through high-pass, low-block, or filters. In this case, electrodes 640 may be divided into two groups: electrodes 641 and electrodes 642. The two groups may be connected by a connection that allows low-frequency signals (DC signals) to pass but blocks high frequencies.

[0110] Alternatively, the entire set of interdigitated electrodes on the second substrate can be used as an RF ground plane. For example, a high-pass filter can be used at the RF ground plane connection and a low-pass filter can be used at 643. Other architectures are possible.

[0111] FIG. 7 a schematically illustrates a front view of an example of an embodiment of a building block; FIG. 7b schematically illustrates a front view of an example of an embodiment of a substrate; FIG. 7c schematically illustrates a front view of an example of an embodiment of a substrate; Figure 7b shows a schematic illustration of one embodiment of a substrate, which is particularly useful for use in, for example, an optical modulator of the kind described herein. A plurality of interdigitated electrode drive electrodes are applied to the substrate throughout.

[0112] An example that motivates the use of this substrate is an electrophoretic light modulator. Typically, an electrophoretic light modulator comprises at least two substrates, each having at least two drive electrodes; although this is not required, for example, an electrophoretic light modulator may comprise a single substrate having two electrodes and an opposing substrate having one electrode. In either case, it is preferred that at least one of the substrates in the light modulator conforms to the embodiment.

[0113] One embodiment of the optical modulator comprises a first substrate according to one embodiment and a second substrate. The first and second substrates are arranged with their interiors facing each other. At least one drive electrode is applied to the interior of the first substrate. An optical layer is disposed between the first and second substrates. The controller is configured to apply an electric potential to the at least one drive electrode, causing modulation of the optical properties of the optical modulator. One or both of the first and second substrates are transparent and / or semi-transparent.

[0114] The optical layer disposed between the first and second substrates may include, for example, particles suspended in a fluid, and the controller may be configured to apply a potential to the drive electrodes to move the particles and thus modulate the optical properties of the light modulator.

[0115] In one embodiment, the particles comprise charged or chargeable particles, and the controller is configured to apply a potential to the drive electrodes to obtain an electromagnetic field that effects electrophoretic movement of the particles, hi one embodiment, the electromagnetic field is disposed between at least two drive electrodes disposed on the same substrate or disposed on different substrates.

[0116] In light modulator applications for glazing, both substrates are typically transparent. Light modulators are also called optical modulators.

[0117] Figure 7b shows two drive electrodes on the same surface. The two drive electrodes are shown in Figure 7b with two different dashed line styles. For example, there can be three or more electrodes on the same side of the substrate to allow for finer control of the voltage difference across the substrate. The drive electrodes are applied to the same side of the substrate. Applying the electrodes to the substrate may be done lithographically, for example, using a mask that represents the electrode pattern. The electrodes may also be applied by embedding them into the substrate.

[0118] The drive electrodes are electrically connected, e.g., have the same potential everywhere. The drive electrodes may comprise drive buses and main lines. At least the main lines are interdigitated with main lines of further drive electrodes. Typically, the drive electrodes extend substantially linearly across the substrate, while the main lines are serpentine.

[0119] In one embodiment, each of the two substrates of the optical module has two electrodes disposed on its inner surface. However, as described above, multiple electrodes on one or both substrates are not required. For example, one embodiment of an optical modulator includes a first substrate and a second substrate. For example, the first substrate may include one drive electrode and the second substrate may include no drive electrodes. For example, the first substrate may include two drive electrodes and the second substrate may include one drive electrode. For example, the first substrate may include two drive electrodes and the second substrate may include two drive electrodes. For example, the first substrate may include three or more drive electrodes and the second substrate may include two or more drive electrodes.

[0120] However, an optical modulator in which each substrate includes two drive electrodes is used as a motivating example. A substrate design featuring two drive electrodes can be adapted to have a single drive electrode, for example, by connecting the two drive electrodes or by removing one of the drive electrodes. Adapting the substrate in this way can make it suitable for use with different technologies.

[0121] Each of the multiple drive electrodes is arranged in a pattern across the substrate. The multiple drive electrodes are arranged alternately with one another on the substrate. Typically, the drive electrodes each comprise multiple main lines extending across the substrate. The main lines of the drive electrodes are, for example, interdigitated. For example, in FIG. 7b, a first drive electrode comprises main lines 711 to 714, and a second drive electrode comprises main lines 721 to 724. Each drive electrode is driven by its own drive bus. FIG. 7b shows two drive buses, drive bus 710 and drive bus 720. The drive electrodes function to connect the main lines to one another. For example, in FIG. 7b, drive bus 710 drives and connects main lines 711 to 714, and drive bus 720 drives and connects main lines 721 to 724; there may be more main lines than the four shown in this example. The use of main lines is advantageous because it shortens the length of the electrodes, but is not required. While it is not impossible to design one that uses only one main line per drive electrode, it is advantageous to have more than one.

[0122] The plurality of main lines of the first and second electrodes are arranged alternately with each other on the substrate.

[0123] An inspiring application for a substrate such as substrate 700 is smart glazing, such as a light modulator, which may be applied to home housing, offices, greenhouses, automobiles, etc. The transparency or reflectance level of smart glazing can be electrically tailored. For example, in smart glazing, two substrates such as substrate 700 are stacked with the sides on which two electrodes are applied facing each other. A fluid having particles is enclosed between the two substrates. Smart glazing embodiments are further described herein. In one embodiment, an electrode, e.g., two or more electrodes, is applied to one surface of each substrate. For example, one, two, or more electrodes may be present on the other surface of substrate 700 to facilitate stacking of three or more substrates.

[0124] Some embodiments herein illustrate examples of modulating levels of transparency or reflectivity. Light modulators may be adapted for other optical effects. For example, embodiments can be modified to provide different levels of translucency rather than different levels of transparency, if desired. If desired, the type of particles used in an embodiment can be varied, e.g., to particles that differ in which wavelengths they absorb or reflect, and how specular or diffuse the reflection is. For example, in one embodiment, the light modulator can modulate different levels of reflection. The particles can also emit light. Stacking multiple optical layers further increases the possibilities.

[0125] Having two sets of alternating main lines is sufficient to provide an electrically adaptable glazing; due to the two alternating sets, the electric field in any part of the substrate can be controlled as two opposing electrodes frame that part from two opposing sides.

[0126] Interestingly, the pattern in which the drive electrodes extend across the substrate is made up of multiple repeating building blocks. As shown in Figure 7b, the drive electrodes on substrate 700 show four blocks: blocks 741, 742, 743, and 744, which are all substantially identical. The number of building blocks may be greater than four. The building blocks are repeated in both directions across the substrate, for example, in a first direction 791, e.g., the x-direction, shown horizontally in the figure, and in a second direction 792, e.g., the y-direction, shown vertically in the figure.

[0127] For example, FIG. 7a schematically illustrates an example of one embodiment of a building block 740. The building block 740 includes multiple interdigitated electrodes extending across the building block 740 in at least two directions. Four electrodes, namely, electrodes 731 to 734, are shown in FIG. 7a. When the building block is repeated across the substrate in two directions, the electrodes within the building block form drive electrodes, e.g., multiple main lines of drive electrodes. Note that the building blocks are typically connected in a substrate-electrode design tool. Typically, a building block includes five or more electrode lines. For example, within the scope of the embodiment, eight to twelve main lines are used. However, the number of electrode lines can be much greater. For example, a building block can include many short electrode lines near its edges that connect to lines of other building blocks when the block is repeated. Taking such short offshoots into account, the number of lines can increase, for example, to 50. Obviously, when using larger building blocks, the number of electrode lines can also increase. In one embodiment, the number of electrode lines in a building block is between 8 and 50, or between 8 and 25, etc.

[0128] The drive electrodes formed by repeating building blocks are connected to a drive bus. Typically, electrode lines within a building block are connected to electrode lines in adjacent blocks by merging corresponding electrode lines; however, this is not required and connection zones connecting corresponding electrode lines can be inserted between repeated building blocks.

[0129] This step can connect multiple main lines together to form a single drive electrode. Figure 7b shows two connection zones 719 and 729 where main lines belonging to the same drive electrode are connected to drive bus 710 and drive bus 720, respectively.

[0130] The electrodes shown in Figure 7a are shown alternately in dashed lines in the same dashed line style in Figure 7b. Indeed, in this example, a particular electrode in a building block in Figure 7a will always be either a first drive electrode or a second electrode, as shown in dashed line style in this case. However, this is not necessarily the case. An electrode within a building block can be part of a first drive electrode or part of a second drive electrode. This can vary, for example, as a result of the odd / even nature of the number of electrodes in the building block, the pattern in which the building block is repeated, etc.

[0131] For example, a particular pattern of repeated building blocks may be used for an optical modulator having two drive electrodes, in which case alternating main lines may be assigned to the two drive electrodes, but the same pattern of repeated building blocks may also be used for an optical modulator having three drive electrodes, in which case every next set of three main lines may be assigned to three drive electrodes.

[0132] Additionally, while the building blocks shown in Figure 7a are square, this is not necessary. For example, the building blocks may be rectangular. In one embodiment, the shapes of the building blocks may form a so-called tessellation. For example, the building blocks may be triangular, hexagonal, or a combination of face-filling shapes.

[0133] As mentioned above, Figures 7a and 7b are schematic diagrams. This is particularly true for the depiction of the electrodes. The electrodes shown in Figure 7a are linear, with their lengths equal to the side lengths of the building blocks. However, in one embodiment, the electrodes on the building blocks are more tortuous with respect to at least one electrode of the multiple interdigitated electrodes in the building block, such that the maximum length between any two points on the electrode measured along the electrode in the building block is at least twice the length of the diagonal of the building block unit. A more tortuous electrode path reduces interference effects.

[0134] An advantage of using building blocks for electrode patterns on a substrate is that the electrode design can be applied by a stepper. The stepper can, for example, take the design of FIG. 7a and repeatedly apply it to a substrate to obtain the design of FIG. 7b. Interestingly, building blocks can also be used as patch antennas, for example, for use with a first substrate. FIG. 7c schematically illustrates an example of a substrate embodiment. For example, the interdigitated electrodes on building block 741 in FIG. 7c can be connected to RF contacts 610. Connections between building blocks use connector 760. For electrodes used only for optical modulation, direct electrical connections can be used, but block 741 is connected through an inductor. The inductor allows DC signals to pass but not high frequencies. The cutoff point can be above 1 kHz, or above 100 Hz, and below 1 GHz, or at frequencies of 1 MHz. For example, the cutoff frequency can be 1 MHz.

[0135] Figures 8a to 8f show schematic front views of an example of an embodiment of an interdigitated electrode, and Figures 9a to 9b show schematic front views of an example of an embodiment of an interdigitated electrode.

[0136] These figures show designs with two drive electrodes on the surface of the substrate. Either design can be modified to have only a single drive electrode on the surface of the substrate, for example, by removing one of the two drive electrodes, or to have three or more electrodes. For example, such modified designs can be used in optical modulators that use substrates with a single electrode or three or more electrodes.

[0137] The designs shown in Figures 8a to 8f and 9a to 9b can be realized in a single plane without intersecting electrodes. In particular, when these designs are connected to two drive buses, intersecting electrodes are not required. When three or more drive electrodes are used, or when more complex electrode patterns are used, electrode intersecting may be used or even required. However, such intersecting is possible where two electrode lines intersect, for example, because a dielectric material may be disposed between the electrodes. For example, such an insulator may be deposited at the intersecting location. For example, a first drive electrode is in a first plane of the substrate, and a second drive electrode is in a second plane of the substrate.

[0138] Smart glazing can also be used in other glazing applications, such as buildings, offices, homes, greenhouses, and skylights, where the amount of incident light is variable. Skylights are windows placed in ceilings to allow sunlight to enter the interior. One embodiment of a glazing unit combines, for example, electrical wireless signal processing for communication and / or energy harvesting, thermal insulation, and optical control of the glazing unit. While such glazing units are typically applied inside buildings, this is not required; for example, FIG. 10 schematically illustrates an embodiment of a vehicle, in this case, an automobile 20, with smart glazing for the window 21. This is a particularly advantageous embodiment because incident illumination levels can change frequently and rapidly during travel. Using smart glazing in an automobile has the advantage of maintaining a constant light level by adjusting the transparency of the automobile's windows. Furthermore, reduced diffraction effects reduce driver distraction and improve safety. The automobile 20 may also include a controller configured to control the transparency or reflectivity of the window 21. Instead of an automobile as shown, the glazing unit may be applied to a camper, boat, etc.

[0139] Figures 11a to 11c show an example of an embodiment of optical modulation. Processing of g is not shown in Figures 11a to 11c. For example, the electrodes shown in Figures 11a to 11c can also be used to process antenna signals. However, one or more additional antennas may be used, which are shown separately here.

[0140] The optical modulator may have two optical states, for example, a transparent state and a non-transparent state, or a reflective state and a non-reflective state. - switching to a second optical state, e.g. a non-transparent or non-reflective state, by creating an AC voltage on at least one of the first and second substrates and applying an AC current between at least the first and second electrodes on the first substrate and / or the first and second electrodes on the second substrate; and - switched to a first optical state, e.g., a transparent or reflective state, by creating an AC voltage between the first substrate and the second substrate and applying an AC current between a first electrode on the first substrate and a first electrode on the second substrate and / or between a second electrode on the first substrate and a second electrode on the second substrate; It may be configured as follows.

[0141] The electrode pattern on the first substrate is arranged in at least a partial pattern with the second electrodes on the second substrate, typically facing each other, although the patterns of the first and second electrodes may be shifted relative to each other.

[0142] A protective coating may be applied to at least a portion of the interior surface area of ​​at least one of the first and second substrates.

[0143] The drive signal applied to the drive electrodes typically has a varying voltage. For example, the power supply can be operated at an AC frequency to switch between transparent and non-transparent states. Such a signal can have a frequency of, for example, 1 to 1000 Hz. A balanced electrolytic current can be obtained by continuously switching the polarity of oppositely charged electrodes on and / or between the first and second substrates.

[0144] Figures 11a-11b show schematic side views of one embodiment of a light modulator in use. Applying an electric field to electrodes on a substrate induces electric forces on the particles. This effect can be used to move the particles and thus induce different transparent or reflective states in the light modulator. A controller can control the electric field, e.g., its amplitude, frequency, and phase. In one embodiment, the controller is connected to at least four electrodes; two on each substrate. However, more electrodes may be used and connected to the controller; for example, three or more electrodes may be used on a substrate to better fine-tune grayscaling and drive non-transparent or non-reflective states. Multiple electrodes may also be used to support multiple segments on a substrate.

[0145] Figure 11a shows the light modulator with no electric field applied, in which particles 30 suspended in fluid 15 have no electric force applied yet.

[0146] In the configuration shown in Figure 11a, the conductive electrode pattern disposed on the upper substrate is fully or substantially aligned with the conductive electrode pattern on the lower substrate. The conductive electrode pattern may be deposited on a transparent or (partially) reflective glass substrate, or may be embedded in a plastic substrate, etc.

[0147] Alignment between the upper and lower electrode patterns contributes to a wider range of achievable levels of transparency or reflectivity. However, alignment is not necessary, as a similar effect can be achieved without alignment. The same range of transparency or reflectivity can be achieved without alignment.

[0148] Note that in these examples, references are made to a top substrate and a bottom substrate to refer to substrates that are higher or lower on the page. The same substrates may also be referred to as, for example, a front substrate and a back substrate because in glazing applications, the substrates are aligned vertically rather than horizontally.

[0149] FIG. 11b shows a light modulator in which, for example, at time P1, a potential +V1 is applied to each microwire electrode on the upper substrate, while a negative voltage, e.g., −V1, is applied to each microwire electrode on the lower substrate. Thus, in this case, the same positive potential is applied to all electrodes 13, and the same negative potential is applied to electrodes 14. The potential difference causes negatively charged particles to flow near the electrode on the upper substrate, where they are substantially aligned with the upper electrode. As a result, if both the upper and lower substrates are transparent, the transparency of the light modulator 10 increases. Similarly, if, for example, the upper substrate is transparent and the lower substrate is reflective, the reflectivity of the light modulator 10 increases. If the solution contains positively charged particles, they will flow near the electrode on the lower substrate, where they will be substantially aligned with the lower electrode.

[0150] At a second time point P2 in the on state, the voltages on the upper and lower electrodes are reversed in contrast to time point P1, achieving a similar transparency or reflectivity. At time point P2, a negative potential -V1 is applied to the voltages on each electrode of the upper substrate, and a positive potential is applied to the voltages on the aligned electrodes of the lower substrate. This state is similar to the state shown in FIG. 11b, except that the upper and lower substrates are reversed. Even with this configuration, the optical modulator 10 still exhibits high transparency or reflectivity.

[0151] Interestingly, transparency or reflectivity can be maintained while reducing corrosion damage to the electrodes by switching between a positive potential at the electrode of the top substrate (and a negative potential at electrode 14), e.g., shown as electrode 13 in Figure 11b, and a positive potential at the electrode of the bottom substrate, e.g., shown as electrode 14 in Figure 11b. This AC electric field can be achieved by applying AC potentials to the top and bottom electrodes.

[0152] Although applying a waveform is optional, it is a useful strategy for increasing the lifetime of optical modulators by reducing corrosion. For example, when using copper electrodes, corrosion can occur because copper ions dissolve in an ionic fluid on one substrate and flow to and deposit on the electrode on the opposing substrate. By applying a waveform, the direction of copper ion transport is frequently reversed, thus reducing corrosion damage. Between two time points P1 and P2, when the corrosion rate of the electrode on, say, the top plate, occurs, the corrosion current between the two substrates is balanced or nearly so, e.g., >95%, and copper is deposited on the bottom electrode at each time point at P1, and vice versa at P2. Therefore, particles are continuously migrating or moving between the top and bottom electrodes, and the optical modulator or smart window is always in an on state. Meanwhile, the dynamic electrolytic current between the top and bottom electrodes is constant, resulting in no or negligible net loss of electrode material on the top and bottom substrates.

[0153] Figure 11c illustrates how a state of reduced transparency or reflectivity can be achieved by applying an alternating voltage to the same substrate. For example, in one embodiment, as shown in Figure 11c, a potential +V2 is applied to the first electrode, and the next immediately adjacent electrode has an opposite potential -V2, etc. This can be achieved by applying a potential +V2 to electrode 13a and an opposite potential -V2 to electrode 13b. On the opposite substrate, a potential +V2 can be applied to electrode 14a and an opposite potential -V2 can be applied to electrode 14b. For example, the electrodes can be arranged so that the electrodes on the substrates are aligned; an electrode on the top substrate has an opposite electrode on the bottom substrate, and vice versa. For example, to reduce transparency or reflectivity, opposing electrodes can receive the same potential and adjacent electrodes receive opposite potentials. One embodiment is shown in Figure 11c, where four electrodes are designated by reference numerals 13a, 13b, 14a, and 14b, and the remaining electrodes continue alternating.

[0154] Using this AC driving cycle between the top and bottom substrates, an oblique and lateral electric field is generated between the two substrates, which induces chaotic particle diffusion, thereby forming the closed state of the light modulator. As a result of this configuration, the particles move obliquely and lateral between the top and bottom substrates, and the diffusion of particles into the visible aperture of the light modulator contributes to the closed, opaque state of the light modulator.

[0155] For example, for the transparent state shown in Figure 11b, a waveform can be applied to the electrodes such that the electrodes at positive potential shown in Figure 11b are at negative potential, and vice versa. Applying a waveform between, for example, electrodes 13a and 13b and 14a and 14b, as in Figure 11b, reduces corrosion damage to the electrodes.

[0156] An AC driving cycle can be implemented by using interdigitated line configurations that combine top and bottom electrode configurations as shown in plan views such as Figures 5, 6a-6d.

[0157] The degree to which the transparency or reflectance increases or decreases in Figures 11b and 11c depends on the voltage and frequency difference. Varying the voltage difference controls the amount by which the transparency or reflectance increases or decreases, respectively. For example, a curve representing light transmittance versus voltage can be determined, e.g., measured. To obtain a particular level of light transmittance, e.g., a particular transparency, e.g., a particular grayscale level, a corresponding voltage, e.g., an AC voltage, can be applied. By interpolating the signals for the transparent or non-transparent state, levels between the transparent and non-transparent states can be obtained. Similarly, a curve representing light reflectance versus voltage can be determined, e.g., measured. To obtain a particular level of reflectance, a corresponding voltage, e.g., an AC voltage, can be applied. By interpolating the signals for the reflective or non-reflective state, levels between the reflective and non-reflective states can be obtained.

[0158] Different electrode patterns may be used in the light modulator. Each electrode pattern may provide a range of grayscales, e.g., levels of transparency or reflectivity, that the light modulator can achieve. However, the specific range of grayscales for any particular electrode pattern may differ from another electrode pattern. In other words, different patterns result in increased transparency or reflectivity or increased non-transparency, but the exact response to the drive signal depends on many factors, including the specific pattern used. The variation in the optical properties of the light modulator may have a fine resolution, e.g., less than 1 mm. Note that pixilation of the light modulator is not required to achieve different optical patterns, such as logos, visible through the light modulator.

[0159] This effect can be used to embed visible images in a light modulator by locally varying the electrode pattern on the substrate of the light modulator. For example, different electrode patterns can locally have gray scales that are permanently offset from one another. For example, by locally varying the electrode pattern or its pitch, the maximum transparency or reflectivity can be changed.

[0160] The result is areas on the light modulator with grayscales, e.g., different grayscales or different intensities of coloring. However, the areas may have the same color point. In one embodiment, they may switch along with the rest of the window, albeit at different speeds. For example, even if the same voltage is applied to the electrodes in two different areas, they will produce different transparent states, e.g., different transmission levels, due to the different electrode patterns. For example, the curve representing transmittance versus voltage may shift. For example, if the voltage control is changed in the same way in both regions, the light transmittance may change in both areas, but by different amounts. An area may also be made less responsive to a drive signal by reducing the density of the electrodes, or in particular, may not switch at all, for example, by not applying electrodes within that area.

[0161] For example, the electrode material may be copper, aluminum, gold, indium tin oxide (ITO), etc. Because ITO is transparent while copper / aluminum are reflective, different electrode materials can be used to achieve different appearances regardless of voltage drive. Similarly, different materials with different resistivities will produce different electric fields. For example, ITO will have a smaller electric field even when driven by the same voltage.

[0162] One embodiment of a method for modulating light includes applying a potential to a plurality of drive electrodes applied to two opposing substrates to obtain an electromagnetic field between the plurality of drive electrodes that results in electrophoretic movement of particles toward or from one of the plurality of drive electrodes, causing modulation of light shining through the substrates, the two opposing substrates being similar to one embodiment.

[0163] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that many different ways of performing the method are possible. For example, while the order of steps may be performed in the order shown, the order of steps may be changed or some steps may be performed in parallel. Furthermore, other method steps may be inserted between steps. The inserted steps may represent improvements to the method as described herein or may be unrelated to the method. For example, some steps may be performed at least partially in parallel. Furthermore, a given step may not be completely completed before the next step is initiated.

[0164] The electrodes can be driven using a signal having a selected maximum amplitude that corresponds to one of multiple levels of transparency or reflectivity of the light modulator. The signal can be an alternating current or an alternating voltage.

Claims

1. A glazing unit (100) configured to receive radio frequency signals, - A first pane (111;650) and a second pane (112), wherein the first and second panes are parallel to each other, - A first substrate (141; 621) and a second substrate (142; 622), - The first substrate and the second substrate are arranged within the glazing unit parallel to the first pane and the second pane. - At least two alternating mating electrodes are arranged on the second side surface of the first substrate, the second side surface of the first substrate is opposite to the first side surface of the first substrate, and the second side surface of the first substrate faces the first side surface of the second substrate. - At least two alternating mating electrodes are arranged on the first side surface of the second substrate, and the first side surface of the second substrate faces the first substrate. A first substrate (141; 621) and a second substrate (142; 622), - At least one antenna (121) for receiving radio frequency signals, the at least one antenna (121) is located on the side surface of the first substrate or on the side surface of the first pane, - An optical layer (143) disposed between a first substrate and a second substrate, wherein charged particles or chargeable particles are fluidly suspended within the optical layer (143), and the particles and electrodes on the first and second substrates are configured to cooperate in electrophoretic modulation of the particle positions, causing modulation of light passing through the glazing unit. Equipped with, A glazing unit (100) in which at least two alternating mating electrodes or a portion thereof on a first substrate are configured as at least one antenna.

2. - The first side surface of the first substrate faces the first pane, the second side surface of the second substrate faces the second pane, and the first and second substrates are located inside the glazing unit, or - The second side surface of the second substrate faces the first pane, and the first and second substrates are positioned outside the glazing unit. The glazing unit (100) according to claim 1.

3. The glazing unit according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the first pane is positioned to face the exterior of a building and the second pane is positioned to face the interior of a building, or the first pane is positioned to face the exterior of a vehicle and the second pane is positioned to face the interior of a vehicle.

4. - A clip (130) surrounding a glazing unit, wherein first and second panes are attached to the clip, and the clip (130) is positioned such that the first and second panes are spaced apart from each other. The glazing unit according to claim 1 or 2.

5. At least one antenna, - A first antenna configured to capture power from a received radio frequency signal, - A second antenna configured to reconstruct RF-modulated data from a received radio frequency signal. - A third antenna configured to retransmit the restored RF-modulated data after remodulation. A glazing unit according to claim 1 or 2, comprising one or more of the following:

6. The glazing unit according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a capacitor (150) connected to the antenna (121) for tuning the antenna (121) to a frequency exceeding 100 MHz.

7. The glazing unit according to claim 1 or 2, wherein alternating mating electrodes on first and second substrates are controlled by an electrical signal with a frequency of less than 1 kHz, preferably less than 100 Hz.

8. The glazing unit according to claim 1 or 2, comprising one or more patch elements, at least one of which is configured as a patch antenna.

9. A glazing unit according to claim 1 or 2, comprising a radio frequency demodulator and a radio frequency modulator.

10. The glazing unit according to claim 1 or 2, comprising a controller connected to at least two alternating mating electrodes on a first substrate and / or at least two alternating mating electrodes on a second substrate for controlling the optical layer, wherein the controller is configured to receive control signals that command the control of the optical layer.

11. The glazing unit according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the controller (160) is arranged to obtain power from an antenna signal in order to at least partially drive electrodes (122, 123) on first and second substrates (141, 142).

12. A glazing unit according to claim 1 or 2, comprising a controller (160) configured to recover data from the antenna signal communicated via the antenna signal, and / or to remodulate the recovered data and transmit the remodulated data through a further antenna.

13. The glazing unit according to claim 1 or 2, wherein an insulating layer (144) is disposed between a first substrate (142) and a second pane (112), and the insulating layer (144) may be a vacuum or may contain an insulating gas such as argon.

14. A glazing unit according to claim 1 or 2, comprising a capacitor, wherein the capacitor (150) comprises a plurality of alternating mating dielectric fins (255) and conductive fins (254), the ground surface (253) is connected to a first outer dielectric fin, the connector (252) is connected to a second outer dielectric fin, the first connection portion of the antenna 121 is connected to the first outer dielectric fin, and the second connection portion of the antenna 121 is connected to the connector (252).

15. The glazing unit according to claim 1 or 2, comprising, in this order, at least one antenna, a dielectric layer, a transparent conductive layer, and a first substrate, with the dielectric layer insulating at least one antenna from the transparent conductive layer.

16. - An ITO layer, a dielectric layer, and at least one antenna are arranged on the first side surface of the first substrate, or - A transparent conductive layer, a dielectric layer, and at least one antenna are arranged on the side of the first pane facing away from the first substrate, or - At least one antenna is positioned on the side of the first pane facing away from the first substrate, and a transparent conductive layer is positioned on the first side of the first substrate. The glazing unit according to claim 1 or 2.

17. The glazing unit according to claim 1 or 2, wherein at least one antenna is arranged on a second side surface of a first substrate among at least two alternating mating electrodes.

18. A glazing unit according to claim 1 or 2, wherein at least two alternating mating electrodes on a second side surface of a first substrate comprise one or more patches, the patches being insulated from high-frequency signals from the rest of the at least two alternating mating electrodes on the second side surface of the first substrate, but not from low-frequency signals.

19. A substrate according to claim 1 or 2, comprising a first pane and a first substrate.

20. A first substrate having a first side surface and a second side surface, - A transparent conductive layer, a dielectric layer, and at least one antenna are arranged on the first side surface of the first substrate. - At least two alternating mating electrodes are arranged on the second side surface of the first substrate, A first substrate in which at least two alternating mating electrodes or a portion thereof on the first substrate are configured as at least one antenna.

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