Electro-optical device with built-in capacitive touchscreen functionality

Abstract

(b) a second electro-optically conductive layer disposed on the other side of the electrochromic medium; (c) a capacitive touchscreen conductive layer disposed on an opposite side of the first electro-optically conductive layer from the electrochromic medium, the capacitive touchscreen conductive layer having a pattern and being substantially transparent; (d) a capacitive touchscreen insulating layer disposed between the capacitive touchscreen conductive layer and the first electro-optically conductive layer; and (e) an electrical circuit configured to: (i) drive at least one of the first electro-optically conductive layer and the second electro-optically conductive layer and the capacitive touchscreen conductive layer with AC voltages that are substantially in phase; and (ii) provide a substantially constant input DC voltage difference between the first electro-optically conductive layer and the second electro-optically conductive layer.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to electro-optical devices, and more particularly to electro-optical devices with touchscreen functionality. [Background technology]

[0002] Vehicles may utilize rearview mirror assemblies to provide a driver or passenger of the vehicle with a view behind the vehicle. Traditionally, such rearview mirror assemblies include a mirror. With various technological advancements, such rearview mirror assemblies may include additional components such as a display, an electro-optical element, one or more sensors, among others. The electro-optical element may provide a variable perceived reflectance to reduce glare. There is a general need to add capacitive touchscreen functionality to an electro-optical element without adding a separate touchscreen assembly to the electro-optical element.

[0003] However, incorporating capacitive touchscreen functionality into electro-optical elements has presented challenges, particularly because electro-optical devices have traditionally typically used direct current (DC), while touchscreen devices have traditionally typically used alternating current (AC). Electro-optical devices typically utilize DC architectures because they function well with a stable reference potential, such as that provided by a DC ground. Simply placing the conductive layer of the touchscreen element on top of the conductive layer of the electro-optical element with only a thin insulating layer between them significantly reduces the sensitivity of the touchscreen function because the DC ground of the electro-optical portion directs the electric field emitted by the conductive layer of the touchscreen element. This is particularly true when the substrate covering the conductive layer of the touchscreen element is significantly thicker than the insulating layer. Furthermore, the presence of the electro-optical element increases the capacitive load on the touchscreen device, which increases the intrinsic sensor time constant and therefore the touchscreen response time. Summary of the Invention

[0004] To address this problem, the present disclosure provides an electro-optical device that includes first and second electro-optical conductive layers and a capacitive touchscreen conductive layer, providing both electro-optical and touchscreen functionality, and circuitry configured to drive at least one of the first and second electro-optical conductive layers with an AC voltage that is in phase with the AC voltage driving the capacitive touchscreen conductive layer and that maintains a DC voltage offset between the first and second electro-optical conductive layers, thereby allowing the electrochromic aspects of the electro-optical device to function as intended. Additionally, the circuitry effectively isolates the capacitive touchscreen conductive layer from ground, thereby providing electrical shielding and improving signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) while reducing capacitive loading. One solution to achieving this is to electrically isolate the first and second electro-optical conductive layers at a desired frequency or frequency range. This allows a user's touch to be more easily determined as a function of impedance changes on the capacitive touchscreen conductive layer. As a result, touchscreen functionality can be incorporated into the electro-optical element without including a touchscreen device that is driven by a voltage source that is completely separate from the electro-optical element.

[0005] According to a first aspect of the present disclosure, an electro-optic element comprises an electrochromic medium; a substantially transparent first electro-optically conductive layer disposed on one side of the electrochromic medium; a second electro-optically conductive layer disposed on the other side of the electrochromic medium; a capacitive touchscreen conductive layer disposed on an opposite side of the first electro-optically conductive layer from the electrochromic medium, the capacitive touchscreen conductive layer having a pattern and being substantially transparent; a capacitive touchscreen insulating layer disposed between the capacitive touchscreen conductive layer and the first electro-optically conductive layer; and an electrical circuit configured to: (i) drive at least one of the first electro-optically conductive layer and the second electro-optically conductive layer and the capacitive touchscreen conductive layer with AC voltages that are substantially in phase; and (ii) provide an input DC voltage difference between the first electro-optically conductive layer and the second electro-optically conductive layer that is substantially constant at all times sampled for a set level of light transmission through the electrochromic medium.

[0006] According to a second aspect of the present disclosure, the electro-optical element of the first aspect further comprises a second capacitive touchscreen conductive layer disposed between the capacitive touchscreen insulating layer and the first electro-optical conductive layer, and a second capacitive touchscreen insulating layer disposed between the second capacitive touchscreen conductive layer and the first electro-optical conductive layer.

[0007] According to a third aspect of the present disclosure, the electro-optical element of either the first or second aspect further comprises a first substrate arranged on the opposite side of the first electro-optical conductive layer from the electrochromic medium, the first substrate having (i) a first surface facing away from the first electro-optical conductive layer, and (ii) a second surface facing toward the first electro-optical conductive layer.

[0008] According to a fourth aspect of the present disclosure, the electro-optical element of the third aspect further comprises a second substrate arranged on the side of the second electro-optically conductive layer opposite the electrochromic medium, the second substrate having (i) a third surface on which the second electro-optically conductive layer is arranged, and (ii) a fourth surface facing the side opposite the electrochromic medium, the second substrate being arranged substantially parallel to and spaced apart from the first substrate so that the second surface of the first substrate faces the third surface of the second substrate, the electrochromic medium being arranged between the second surface of the first substrate and the third surface of the second substrate, and the second electro-optically conductive layer being arranged on the third surface of the second substrate.

[0009] According to a fifth aspect of the present disclosure, in the electro-optical element of either the third or fourth aspect, the capacitive touch screen conductive layer, the capacitive touch screen insulating layer, the second capacitive touch screen conductive layer, the second capacitive touch screen insulating layer, and the first electro-optical conductive layer are arranged on the second surface of the first substrate, respectively, in that order.

[0010] According to a sixth aspect of the present disclosure, in the electro-optical element of any one of the third to fifth aspects, the electrochromic medium comprises a solid composition, the second electro-optically conductive layer is disposed on the electrochromic medium, and the electrochromic medium is disposed between the first electro-optically conductive layer and the second electro-optically conductive layer.

[0011] According to a seventh aspect of the present disclosure, in the electro-optical element of the fourth aspect, the first electro-optically conductive material is disposed directly on the second surface of the first substrate.

[0012] According to an eighth aspect of the present disclosure, the electro-optical element of the seventh aspect further comprises a third substrate having a fifth surface facing the electrochromic medium and a sixth surface facing away from the electrochromic medium, wherein the capacitive touchscreen conductive layer is disposed on the fifth surface of the third substrate, the capacitive touchscreen insulating layer is disposed on the capacitive touchscreen conductive layer, the second capacitive touchscreen conductive layer is disposed on the capacitive touchscreen insulating layer, the second capacitive touchscreen insulating layer is disposed on the second capacitive touchscreen conductive layer, and the second capacitive touchscreen insulating layer is an optically transparent adhesive that adheres the second capacitive touchscreen conductive layer to the first surface of the first substrate.

[0013] According to a ninth aspect of the present disclosure, the electro-optical device of the seventh aspect further comprises a third substrate having a fifth surface facing the electrochromic medium and a sixth surface facing away from the electrochromic medium, wherein an optically transparent adhesive is disposed on the fifth surface of the third substrate, a fourth substrate is disposed on the optically transparent adhesive, the capacitive touchscreen conductive layer is disposed on the fourth substrate, the capacitive touchscreen insulating layer is disposed on the capacitive touchscreen conductive layer, and the second capacitive touchscreen insulating layer is disposed on the fourth substrate. a layer disposed on the capacitive touchscreen insulating layer, a fifth substrate disposed on the second capacitive touchscreen conductive layer, the second capacitive touchscreen insulating layer disposed on the second capacitive touchscreen conductive layer, the capacitive touchscreen insulating layer being an optically clear adhesive that bonds the capacitive touchscreen conductive layer to the second capacitive touchscreen conductive layer, and the second capacitive touchscreen insulating layer being an optically clear adhesive that bonds the fifth substrate to the first surface of the first substrate.

[0014] According to a tenth aspect of the present disclosure, in an electro-optical element of any one of the first to ninth aspects, the electrical circuit electrically couples the capacitive touch screen conductive layer to at least one of the first electro-optical conductive layer and the second electro-optical conductive layer.

[0015] According to an eleventh aspect of the present disclosure, in the electro-optical element of any one of the first to tenth aspects, the electrical circuit is not configured to separately drive the capacitive touch screen conductive layer with an AC voltage.

[0016] According to a twelfth aspect of the present disclosure, in the electro-optical element of any one of the first to tenth aspects, the electrical circuit is configured to separately drive the capacitive touch screen conductive layers with an AC voltage.

[0017] According to a thirteenth aspect of the present disclosure, in the electro-optical element of any one of the first to twelfth aspects, the electrical circuit is configured so that the capacitive touch screen conductive layer exhibits an AC voltage that is substantially in phase with the AC voltage driving at least one of the first electro-optical conductive layer and the second electro-optical conductive layer.

[0018] According to a 14th aspect of the present disclosure, in an electro-optical element of any one of the 1st to 13th aspects, the electrical circuit has a parallel LC circuit that electrically isolates the first electro-optical conductive layer and the second electro-optical conductive layer at a desired frequency or frequency range of the alternating current.

[0019] According to a 15th aspect of the present disclosure, in the electro-optical element of the 14th aspect, the parallel LC circuit is configured to substantially maximize the load impedance at the first electro-optical conductive layer at a desired frequency or frequency range of the alternating current.

[0020] According to a 16th aspect of the present disclosure, in an electro-optical element of any one of the 1st to 13th aspects, the electrical circuit includes an inductor that insulates the first electro-optical conductive layer and the second electro-optical conductive layer at a desired frequency or frequency range of the alternating current.

[0021] According to a 17th aspect of the present disclosure, in the electro-optical element of the 16th aspect, the inductor is configured to substantially maximize the load impedance in the first electro-optical conductive layer at the desired frequency or frequency range of the alternating current.

[0022] According to an eighteenth aspect of the present disclosure, in the electro-optical element of any one of the first to seventeenth aspects, the electric circuit is configured to drive the second electro-optically conductive layer with an AC voltage.

[0023] According to a nineteenth aspect of the present disclosure, in the electro-optical element of any one of the first to eighteenth aspects, the second electro-optically conductive layer substantially reflects electromagnetic radiation in the visible range.

[0024] According to a twentieth aspect of the present disclosure, a method of operating an electro-optical element includes using an electro-optical element comprising a first electro-optically conductive layer, a second electro-optically conductive layer, a capacitive touchscreen conductive layer, and an electrical circuit electrically coupling the capacitive touchscreen conductive layer to at least one of the first electro-optically conductive layer and the second electro-optically conductive layer, the method comprising: (a) driving the capacitive touchscreen conductive layer with an alternating current (AC) voltage; and (b) driving each of the first electro-optically conductive layer and the second electro-optically conductive layer with an AC voltage that is substantially in phase and has a DC voltage offset that matches and is in phase with the AC voltage driving the capacitive touchscreen conductive layer, at a frequency or range of frequencies that electrically isolates the first electro-optically conductive layer and the second electro-optically conductive layer.

[0025] These and other features, advantages, and objects of the present disclosure will be further understood and appreciated by those skilled in the art with reference to the following specification, claims, and accompanying drawings.

[0026] The drawings are as follows: [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0027] [Figure 1A] FIG. 1A is a cross-sectional elevation view of an electro-optical element of the present disclosure showing a capacitive touch screen conductive layer, a first electro-optical conductive layer, a second electro-optical conductive layer, and an electrochromic medium disposed between a first substrate and a second substrate, respectively.

[0028] [Figure 1B] FIG. 1B is a cross-sectional elevation view of another electro-optic element of the present disclosure, similar to the electro-optic element of FIG. 1A, but lacking the second substrate.

[0029] [Figure 1C] FIG. 1C is a cross-sectional elevation view of yet another electro-optical element of the present disclosure, showing (i) a first substrate and a second substrate sandwiching a first electro-optically conductive layer, an electrochromic medium, and a second electro-optically conductive layer therebetween, and (ii) a capacitive touchscreen conductive layer disposed on a third substrate affixed to the first substrate.

[0030] [Figure 1D] FIG. 1D is a cross-sectional elevation view of yet another electro-optical element of the present disclosure similar to the electro-optical element of FIG. 1C, but further comprising an additional substrate between the third substrate and the first substrate.

[0031] [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a flow chart of a method of operating the electro-optical element of FIGS. 1A and 1B.

[0032] [Figure 3]FIG. 3, in connection with Example 1, shows (i) an electronic circuit diagram of a computer model of any one of the electro-optic elements of FIGS. 1A-1D , and (ii) a graph plotting impedance magnitude and phase angle as a function of frequency in a capacitive touchscreen conductive layer, showing that the impedance magnitude is at a maximum value in the first electro-optic conductive layer when the frequency of the AC voltage is at a desired frequency of about 100 kHz.

[0033] [Figure 4] FIG. 4, relating to Example 2, is (i) an electrical circuit diagram of another computer model of any one of the electro-optical elements of FIGS. 1A to 1D , in which the first electro-optical conductive layer is configured to be driven by an AC voltage, and (ii) a graph plotting the voltage at the first electro-optical conductive layer and the second electro-optical conductive layer as a function of time, with the AC components of the voltages being substantially in phase and the first electro-optical conductive layer having a greater voltage than the second electro-optical conductive layer at all times.

[0034] [Figure 5] FIG. 5, relating to Example 2, shows a plot of impedance magnitude and phase angle as a function of frequency for one of the elements of the electrical circuit of FIG. 4 , showing that the impedance magnitude is at a maximum value in the first electro-optically conductive layer when the frequency of the AC voltage is at a desired frequency of about 100 kHz. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0035] Illustrated embodiments of the present invention reside primarily in combinations of method steps and apparatus components related to electro-active devices incorporating touchscreen functionality. Accordingly, the apparatus components and method steps have, where appropriate, been represented by conventional symbols in the drawings showing only specific details relevant to an understanding of the embodiments of the present disclosure, so as not to obscure the present disclosure with details that will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art having the benefit of this description. Furthermore, like numerals refer to like elements throughout the description and drawings.

[0036] For purposes of description herein, the terms "upper," "lower," "right," "left," "rear," "front," "vertical," "horizontal," and derivatives thereof, refer to the disclosure oriented in FIG. 1A . Unless otherwise stated, the term "front" refers to the surface of the device closest to the intended observer, and the term "rear" refers to the surface of the device farthest from the intended observer. However, it should be understood that the invention is susceptible to various alternative orientations, unless expressly specified to the contrary. It should also be understood that the specific devices and processes illustrated in the accompanying drawings and described in the following specification are merely exemplary embodiments of the inventive concepts defined in the appended claims. Accordingly, specific dimensions and other physical characteristics relating to the embodiments disclosed herein are not to be considered limiting, unless the claims expressly state otherwise.

[0037] The terms "including," "comprises," "comprising," or any other variation thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that a process, method, article, or apparatus comprising a list of elements may include not only those elements, but also other elements not expressly listed or inherent in such process, method, article, or apparatus. An element preceded by "comprises a..." does not preclude the presence of additional identical elements in a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises that element, without further constraints.

[0038] Referring to FIG. 1A , electro-optic element 10A includes first substrate 12 and second substrate 14. First substrate 12 provides first surface 16 and second surface 18. First surface 16 and second surface 18 face generally opposite directions 20, 22, with first surface 16 facing direction 20 and second surface 18 facing direction 22. Directions 20, 22 may be oriented at an angle of approximately 180 degrees from each other. While first surface 16 and second surface 18 are illustrated as generally planar and parallel to each other, this need not be the case; one or both surfaces may be curved or otherwise non-planar. Electro-optic element 10A is intended to be viewed from direction 20 toward direction 22, as shown by the eye illustration.

[0039] The second substrate 14 presents a third surface 24 and a fourth surface 26. The third surface 24 and the fourth surface 26 generally face in opposite directions 20, 22, with the third surface 24 facing in direction 20 and the fourth surface 26 facing in direction 22. The third surface 24 faces away from the second surface 18 of the first substrate 12. The second substrate 14 may be substantially parallel to the first substrate 12 across a gap. Although the third surface 24 and the fourth surface 26 are illustrated as generally planar and parallel to each other, this is not necessarily the case; one or both of the third and fourth surfaces 24 and 26 may be curved or otherwise non-planar. The second surface 18 of the first substrate 12 faces the third surface 24 of the second substrate 14.

[0040] The first substrate 12 and the second substrate 14 can have a polymer composition. For example, the first substrate 12 and the second substrate 14 can be made of polyethylene (e.g., low density and / or high density), polyethylene terephthalate (PET) (e.g., Spallshield® CPET, available from Kuraray®), polyethylene naphthalate (PEN), polycarbonate (PC) (e.g., ProLens® polycarbonate, available from Professional Plastics), polysulfone, acrylic polymers (e.g., poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA)), polymethacrylate, polyimide, polyamide (e.g., cycloaliphatic diamine dodecanedioic acid polymer (i.e., Trogamid® CX7323)), epoxy, cyclic olefin polymer (COP) (e.g., Zeonor 1420R), cyclic olefin copolymer (COC) (e.g., Topas 6013S-04 and Mitsui Apel), polymethylpentene, cellulose ester-based plastics (e.g., cellulose triacetate), fluoropolymers, polyacrylonitrile, other polymeric materials, and / or combinations thereof.

[0041] Alternatively, the first substrate 12 and the second substrate 14 can have a glass composition. For example, the first substrate 12 and the second substrate 14 can have a composition including an aluminosilicate glass such as Falcon, commercially available from AGC, boroaluminosilicate (BAS) glass, soda-lime glass such as ultra-clear soda-lime glass, and / or float glass. The first substrate 12 and the second substrate 14 can have the same composition, or alternatively, can have different compositions (e.g., one having a glass composition and the other having a polymer composition).

[0042] The electro-optical element 10A further includes a first electro-optically conductive layer 28. The first electro-optically conductive layer 28 is associated with the second surface 18 of the first substrate 12. For example, the first electro-optically conductive layer 28 is disposed on (but not necessarily directly stacked on) the second surface 18 of the first substrate 12. The first surface 16 of the first substrate 12 faces away from the first electro-optically conductive layer 28. The second surface 18 of the first substrate 12 faces towards the first electro-optically conductive layer 28.

[0043] The electro-optical element 10A further comprises a second electro-optically conductive layer 30. The second electro-optically conductive layer 30 is associated with the third surface 24 of the second substrate 14. In particular, the second electro-optically conductive layer 30 is disposed on (but not necessarily directly stacked on) the third surface 24 of the second substrate 14. In the embodiment described in the present disclosure, the second electro-optically conductive layer 30 is disposed directly on the third surface 24 of the second substrate 14.

[0044] The touchscreen electro-optic element 10A further includes an electrochromic medium 32. The electrochromic medium 32 is disposed between the first substrate 12 and the second substrate 14, specifically between the second surface 18 of the first substrate 12 and the third surface 24 of the second substrate 14. The electrochromic medium 32 is disposed between a first electro-optically conductive layer 28 and a second electro-optically conductive layer 30. The first electro-optically conductive layer 28 is disposed on one side of the electrochromic medium 32, and the second electro-optically conductive layer 30 is disposed on the other side of the electrochromic medium 32. The first substrate 12 and the electrochromic medium 32 are disposed on either side of the first electro-optically conductive layer 28. The second substrate 14 and the second electro-optically conductive layer 30 are disposed on either side of the electrochromic medium 32. The fourth surface 26 of the second substrate 14 faces away from the electrochromic medium 32.

[0045] A chamber 34 is formed between the first substrate 12 and the second substrate 14 using an encapsulant 36. The electrochromic medium 32 is disposed within the chamber 34. The encapsulant 36 may have a composition including, for example, epoxies, urethanes, cyanoacrylates, acrylics, polyimides, polyamides, polysulfides, phenoxy resins, polyolefins, and silicones, among other options.

[0046] The first substrate 12 and the first electro-optically conductive layer 28 are substantially transparent to a predetermined wavelength or range of wavelengths of electromagnetic radiation. The second electro-optically conductive layer 30 can be substantially transparent, substantially reflective, or partially reflective and simultaneously partially transparent (e.g., semi-transparent). Substantially transparent can be for wavelengths or ranges of wavelengths of electromagnetic radiation within the visible range of electromagnetic radiation. Substantially transparent can be for wavelengths or ranges of wavelengths of electromagnetic radiation in the infrared, visible, and / or ultraviolet ranges of electromagnetic radiation. For purposes of this disclosure, "substantially transparent" means that the component (e.g., first substrate 12, first electro-optically conductive layer 28, etc.) transmits at least 40% of incident electromagnetic radiation of that wavelength or range of wavelengths. In some examples, the component transmits at least 50%, at least 70%, at least 80%, at least 90%, at least 95%, or at least 95.9% of incident electromagnetic radiation of that wavelength or range of wavelengths.

[0047] The first electro-optically conductive layer 28 and the second electro-optically conductive layer 30 are electrically conductive. The electrochromic medium 32 is in electrical communication with the first electro-optically conductive layer 28 and the second electro-optically conductive layer 30. The electrochromic medium 32 is operable between an activated state and a deactivated state in response to an electrical potential applied to the first electro-optically conductive layer 28 and the second electro-optically conductive layer 30. For example, the level of optical transparency through the electrochromic medium 32 varies as a function of an input DC voltage difference between the first electro-optically conductive layer 28 and the second electro-optically conductive layer 30. Because the AC voltage components between the first electro-optically conductive layer 28 and the second electro-optically conductive layer 30 are substantially in phase, the voltage difference is relatively constant and therefore acts as an input DC voltage difference. Thus, the electrochromic medium 32 may include electroactive anodic and cathodic materials, among other materials. Additionally, the electrochromic medium 32 may include one or more solvents. In some embodiments, the anodic and / or cathodic materials may be electro-optical and / or electrochromic. The electrochromic medium 32 may be a solution containing cathodic and anodic materials, or may have separate layers of cathodic and anodic materials. The electrochromic medium 32 may be a gel-like ionic conductor. The electrochromic medium 32 may be any material system that changes its light absorption based on a potential difference between two electrodes. Thus, upon application of an electrical voltage or potential, the electrochromic medium 32 exhibits a change in absorbance at one or more wavelengths in the electromagnetic spectrum. Thus, the electrochromic medium 32 may variably transmit electromagnetic radiation of a predetermined wavelength or range of wavelengths. The change in absorbance may be within the visible, ultraviolet, infrared, and / or near-infrared regions of electromagnetic radiation. Electrochromic medium 32 may be made from any one of a number of materials, including, for example, those disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 6,433,914, entitled "Color-Stabilized Electrochromic Devices," which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0048] 1B, electro-optical element 10B is similar in construction to electro-optical element 10A, except that it lacks second substrate 14 and encapsulant 36. In electro-optical element 10B, a first electro-optically conductive layer 28 is still provided on second surface 18 of first substrate 12. A second electro-optically conductive layer 30 is provided on electrochromic medium 32. Electrochromic medium 32 is disposed between (and in electrical communication with) first electro-optically conductive layer 28 and second electro-optically conductive layer 30, similar to electro-optical element 10A. In such an embodiment, electrochromic medium 32 may have a solid composition such as a metal oxide (e.g., WO3 or MoO3) and a conductive polymer (e.g., PEDOT), among other options.

[0049] The electro-optical elements 10A, 10B further include a capacitive touchscreen conductive layer 38. The capacitive touchscreen conductive layer 38 is electrically conductive. The capacitive touchscreen conductive layer 38 is associated with (e.g., disposed on) the second surface 18 of the first substrate 12. The capacitive touchscreen conductive layer 38 is disposed between the first substrate 12 and the first electro-optic conductive layer 28. The capacitive touchscreen conductive layer 38 and the electrochromic medium 32 are disposed on either side of the first electro-optic conductive layer 28. In some embodiments described herein, the capacitive touchscreen conductive layer 38 is formed directly on the first surface 18 of the first substrate 12. An intervening layer may separate the second surface 18 of the first substrate 12 from the capacitive touchscreen conductive layer 38. The capacitive touchscreen conductive layer 38 forms a pattern, such as a Manhattan pattern, a diamond pattern, a fluorescent pattern, or other patterns known to those skilled in the art. The capacitive touchscreen conductive layer 38 may be patterned to allow the output of the capacitive touchscreen conductive layer 38 to vary as a function of the location at which a user touches the electro-optical elements 10A, 10B. The capacitive touchscreen conductive layer 38 may be configured to exhibit a sheet resistance in the range of 1 Ω / square to 300 Ω / square, for example, about 100 Ω / square, but is not limited to these values. The capacitive touchscreen conductive layer 38 may be substantially transparent to a wavelength or range of wavelengths of electromagnetic radiation, but the capacitive touchscreen conductive layer 38 need not be.

[0050] The electro-optical elements 10A, 10B further include a capacitive touchscreen insulating layer 40. The capacitive touchscreen insulating layer 40 is associated with the first substrate 12. The capacitive touchscreen insulating layer 40 is disposed between the capacitive touchscreen conductive layer 38 and the first electro-optic conductive layer 28. The capacitive touchscreen conductive layer 38 and the capacitive touchscreen insulating layer 40 are disposed between the second surface 18 of the first substrate 12 and the first electro-optic conductive layer 28. In the embodiment described herein, the capacitive touchscreen insulating layer 40 is disposed on the capacitive touchscreen conductive layer 38. The capacitive touchscreen insulating layer 40 is substantially transparent to the aforementioned wavelength or range of wavelengths of electromagnetic radiation. The capacitive touchscreen insulating layer 40 can have any composition that electrically insulates the capacitive touchscreen conductive layer 38 from the first electro-optic conductive layer 28 while still being substantially transparent. Exemplary compositions include SiO2, MgO, Ta2O5, ZrO2, MgF2, ITO, TiO x , CeO x , SnO2, ZnS, NiO x , CrO x , NbO x , ZrO x , WO3, NiO, Ti x SiO y , zinc oxide, zinc aluminum oxide, titanium oxide, and silicon nitride. The capacitive touchscreen insulating layer 40 may include multiple sub-layers of different compositions, which may be deposited using different deposition processes (e.g., CVD, PVD, etc.). The capacitive touchscreen insulating layer 40 may be an optically transparent adhesive. The capacitive touchscreen insulating layer 40 may have any thickness. In some examples, the thickness may range from 100 nm to 10 μm. The first electro-optically conductive layer 28 may be deposited directly on the capacitive touchscreen insulating layer 40.

[0051] 1A and 1B, the electro-optical elements 10A, 10B may (but need not) further comprise a second capacitive touchscreen conductive layer 44 and a second capacitive touchscreen insulating layer 46. In such an embodiment, the second capacitive touchscreen conductive layer 44 and the second capacitive touchscreen insulating layer 46 are disposed between the capacitive touchscreen insulating layer 40 and the first electro-optic conductive layer 28. The second capacitive touchscreen insulating layer 46 is disposed between the second capacitive touchscreen conductive layer 44 and the first electro-optic conductive layer 28. The second capacitive touchscreen conductive layer 44 forms a pattern such as that already mentioned, but the pattern of the second capacitive touchscreen conductive layer 44 is oriented offset from or orthogonal to the pattern of the capacitive touchscreen conductive layer 38. Such a configuration improves the capacity and sensitivity of the touchscreen function. Second capacitive touchscreen conductive layer 44 may exhibit similar sheet resistance and transparency properties as capacitive touchscreen conductive layer 38. Similarly, the above description of capacitive touchscreen insulating layer 40 with respect to properties and composition may be equally applied to second capacitive touchscreen insulating layer 46.

[0052] The capacitive touchscreen conductive layer 38, the second capacitive touchscreen conductive layer 44, the first electro-optic conductive layer 28, and the second electro-optic conductive layer 30 can be formed of any material that is substantially transparent to the wavelength or wavelength range of electromagnetic radiation while being electrically conductive. For example, the capacitive touchscreen conductive layer 38, the second capacitive touchscreen conductive layer 44, the first electro-optic conductive layer 28, and the second electro-optic conductive layer 30 can each have a composition that includes a transparent conductive oxide (TCO). Examples of transparent conductive oxides include indium tin oxide (ITO), fluorine-doped tin oxide (FTO), tin-doped ITO, doped zinc oxide (e.g., Al:ZnO, Ga:ZnO, B:ZnO), indium zinc oxide, fluorine-doped tin oxide, and antimony-doped tin oxide, among others. Other possibilities for the composition of the capacitive touchscreen conductive layer 38, the second capacitive touchscreen conductive layer 44, the first electro-optic conductive layer 28, and the second electro-optic conductive layer 30 include, but are not limited to, metal oxide / Ag / metal oxide, silver nanowire coatings, carbon nanotube coatings, graphene coatings, wire grids, and conductive polymers such as poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT). Each of the capacitive touchscreen conductive layer 38, the second capacitive touchscreen conductive layer 44, the first electro-optic conductive layer 28, and the second electro-optic conductive layer 30 can have the same composition, or alternatively, can have different compositions.

[0053] In the electro-optical elements 10A, 10B, the capacitive touchscreen conductive layer 38, the capacitive touchscreen insulating layer 40, the second capacitive touchscreen conductive layer 44, the second capacitive touchscreen insulating layer 46 and the first electro-optical conductive layer 28 are disposed on the second surface 18 of the first substrate 12 in that order toward the rear 22, respectively.

[0054] 1C, electro-optic element 10C similarly includes electrochromic medium 32, first electro-optically conductive layer 28, second electro-optically conductive layer 30, capacitive touchscreen conductive layer 38, capacitive touchscreen insulating layer 40, second capacitive touchscreen conductive layer 44, and second capacitive touchscreen insulating layer 46. Electrochromic medium 32 is disposed between first electro-optically conductive layer 28 and second electro-optically conductive layer 30.

[0055] In contrast to electro-optical elements 10A and 10B, electro-optical element 10C's first electro-optically conductive layer 28 is disposed directly on first substrate 12's second surface 18. Electro-optical element 10C also includes a third substrate 200. Third substrate 200 has a fifth surface 202 and a sixth surface 204. Fifth surface 202 faces toward electrochromic medium 32. Sixth surface 204 faces away from electrochromic medium 32. A capacitive touchscreen conductive layer 38 is disposed on fifth surface 202 of third substrate 200. A capacitive touchscreen insulating layer 40 is disposed on capacitive touchscreen conductive layer 38. A second capacitive touchscreen conductive layer 44 is disposed on capacitive touchscreen insulating layer 40. A second capacitive touchscreen insulating layer 46 is disposed on second capacitive touchscreen conductive layer 44. In some embodiments, the second capacitive touchscreen insulating layer 46 is an optically clear adhesive that bonds the second capacitive touchscreen conductive layer 44 (and any layers laminated to the third substrate 200) to the first surface 16 of the first substrate 12. Thus, the assembly of the third substrate 200, the capacitive touchscreen conductive layer 38, the capacitive touchscreen insulating layer 40, the second capacitive touchscreen conductive layer 44, and the second capacitive touchscreen insulating layer 46 can be formed as a module and adhered to the first surface 16 of the first substrate 12. Examples of optically clear adhesives include acrylic-based, silicone-based, epoxy-based, and polyurethane-based adhesives, among others.

[0056] 1D , electro-optic element 10D similarly includes electrochromic medium 32, first electro-optically conductive layer 28, second electro-optically conductive layer 30, capacitive touchscreen conductive layer 38, capacitive touchscreen insulating layer 40, second capacitive touchscreen conductive layer 44, and second capacitive touchscreen insulating layer 46. Electrochromic medium 32 is disposed between first electro-optically conductive layer 28 and second electro-optically conductive layer 30. Similarly to electro-optic element 10C, electro-optic element 10D also includes a third substrate 200 having a fifth surface 202 facing toward electrochromic medium 32 and a sixth surface 204 facing away from electrochromic medium 32.

[0057] In contrast to the electro-optical devices 10A-10C, the electro-optical device 10D further comprises an optically clear adhesive 206 disposed on the fifth surface 202 of the third substrate 200. The electro-optical device 10D further comprises a fourth substrate 208 disposed on the optically clear adhesive 206. A capacitive touchscreen conductive layer 38 is disposed on the fourth substrate 208, with the fourth substrate 208 disposed between the optically clear adhesive 206 and the capacitive touchscreen conductive layer 38. Conceptually towards the rear 22, a capacitive touchscreen insulating layer 40 is disposed on the capacitive touchscreen conductive layer 38. A second capacitive touchscreen conductive layer 44 is disposed on the capacitive touchscreen insulating layer 40. A fifth substrate 210 is disposed on the second capacitive touchscreen conductive layer 44. A second capacitive touchscreen insulating layer 46 is disposed on the fifth substrate 210. However, like electro-optic device 10C, capacitive touchscreen insulating layer 40 of electro-optic device 10D is an optically clear adhesive that bonds capacitive touchscreen conductive layer 38 to second capacitive touchscreen conductive layer 44. Similarly, second capacitive touchscreen insulating layer 46 is an optically clear adhesive that bonds fifth substrate 210 to first surface 16 of first substrate 12.

[0058] In all embodiments (including electro-optical elements 10A-10D), at least one of the first electro-optically conductive layer 28 and the second electro-optically conductive layer 30 is driven with an alternating current (AC) voltage relative to system ground. In embodiments described herein, both the first electro-optically conductive layer 28 and the second electro-optically conductive layer 30 are driven with AC voltages that have different DC-like offsets relative to each other (e.g., the AC voltages for the first electro-optically conductive layer 28 and the second electro-optically conductive layer 30 are different but have the same amplitude and phase, resulting in a substantially constant DC voltage offset). In some examples, the first electro-optically conductive layer 28 is driven with an AC voltage, but the second electro-optically conductive layer 30 is not separately driven with an AC voltage. Similarly, the second electro-optically conductive layer 30 may be driven with an AC voltage, but the first electro-optically conductive layer 28 is not separately driven with an AC voltage.

[0059] In other words, the first electro-optically conductive layer 28 and the second electro-optically conductive layer 30 exhibit AC voltages that are substantially in phase. In such embodiments, the voltage as a function of time at the first electro-optically conductive layer 28 and the voltage as a function of time at the second electro-optically conductive layer 30 are both substantially in-phase repeating waves having substantially the same amplitude. In some embodiments, the voltage at the first electro-optically conductive layer 28 is greater than the voltage at the second electro-optically conductive layer 30 at all times during the sampled period. In other embodiments, the voltage at the first electro-optically conductive layer 28 is less than the voltage at the second electro-optically conductive layer 30 at all times during the sampled period. The electrical circuit is configured to achieve this effect. Thus, the first electro-optically conductive layer 28 and the second electro-optically conductive layer 30 experience an input DC voltage difference that is substantially constant (e.g., a variation of 10% or less, such as a variation of 5% or less) at a set level of light transmission through the electrochromic medium 32 at all times during the sampled period.

[0060] The electro-optical elements 10A, 10B further include electrical circuitry configured to achieve the effects of the previous two paragraphs. Such electrical circuitry may include separate AC voltage sources or waveform generators for the first electro-optically conductive layer 28 and the second electro-optically conductive layer 30. These sources generate desired waveforms with specified phase relationships and amplitudes. Amplifiers may also be used to increase voltage levels as needed. A digital control element, such as a microcontroller, may be used to generate and control the desired voltage waveforms.

[0061] Driving at least one of the first electro-optically conductive layer 28 and the second electro-optically conductive layer 30 with an AC voltage relative to system ground is contrary to conventional practice. Traditionally, the first electro-optically conductive layer and the second electro-optically conductive layer are typically driven with a direct current (DC) voltage, with any AC voltage being relative to system ground. A DC voltage has been considered more practical because a power source having a DC voltage (e.g., a 24 V DC battery) typically provides the power to operate the electro-optical elements 10A, 10B. Furthermore, the first electro-optically conductive layer 28 and the second electro-optically conductive layer 30 typically require little voltage to operate the electrochromic medium 32.

[0062] In embodiments described herein, the electro-optical elements 10A-10D further comprise one or more coatings 50 disposed on the first surface 16 of the first substrate 12 (in the case of the electro-optical elements 10A-10B) or on the first surface 204 of the third substrate 200 (in the case of the electro-optical elements 10C-10D). The one or more coatings 50 may include a protective coating, an anti-fingerprint coating, or an anti-reflective coating, among other options. The one or more coatings 50 are substantially transparent to a desired wavelength or range of wavelengths of electromagnetic radiation.

[0063] The capacitive touchscreen conductive layer 38 is electrically coupled to at least one of the first electro-optic conductive layer 28 and the second electro-optic conductive layer 30. In other words, the electrical circuitry that drives the at least one of the first electro-optic conductive layer 28 and the second electro-optic conductive layer 30 also drives or is otherwise electrically connected to the capacitive touchscreen conductive layer 38. An AC voltage may drive the capacitive touchscreen conductive layer 38 separately (e.g., separately from the AC voltage that drives the at least one of the first electro-optic conductive layer 28 and the second electro-optic conductive layer 30). However, an AC voltage need not separately drive the capacitive touchscreen conductive layer 38. An electrical circuit is configured to achieve this effect. Such an electrical circuit may include conductive traces, capacitors, switches, and transistors, and may include a driver circuit having components such as amplifiers, oscillators, and waveform generators to generate the desired AC voltage signal.

[0064] The second capacitive touchscreen conductive layer 44 is electrically coupled to the at least one of the first electro-optic conductive layer 28 and the second electro-optic conductive layer 30. In other words, the electrical circuitry that drives the at least one of the first electro-optic conductive layer 28 and the second electro-optic conductive layer 30 also drives or is otherwise electrically connected to the second capacitive touchscreen conductive layer 44. An AC voltage may, but need not, separately drive the second capacitive touchscreen conductive layer 44. The electrical circuitry is configured to this effect in a manner similar to that described for the first capacitive touchscreen conductive layer 38.

[0065] The capacitive touchscreen conductive layer 38 exhibits an AC voltage that is substantially in phase with the AC voltage driving the at least one of the first electro-optic conductive layer 28 and the second electro-optic conductive layer 30. The capacitive touchscreen conductive layer 38 exhibits an AC voltage, meaning that a measurement of the voltage across the capacitive touchscreen conductive layer 38 appears as an AC voltage. The capacitive touchscreen conductive layer 38 exhibits an AC voltage regardless of whether the capacitive touchscreen conductive layer 38 is specifically driven by an AC voltage source because the capacitive touchscreen conductive layer 38 is electrically coupled to the at least one of the first electro-optic conductive layer 28 and the second electro-optic conductive layer 30. However, even when the capacitive touchscreen conductive layer 38 and the first electro-optic conductive layer 28 are each separately driven by an AC voltage, the AC voltages driving each of the capacitive touchscreen conductive layer 38 and the first electro-optic conductive layer 28 are substantially in phase.

[0066] Further, as mentioned above, the electrical circuitry is configured so that the capacitive touchscreen conductive layer 38 exhibits an AC voltage that is substantially in phase with the AC voltage driving the at least one of the first electro-optic conductive layer 28 and the second electro-optic conductive layer 30. There are numerous ways to design the electrical circuitry to achieve this goal. For example, the electrical circuitry of the electro-optic elements 10A-10D may include an inductor that isolates the first electro-optic conductive layer 28 and the second electro-optic conductive layer 30 at a desired AC frequency or frequency range. In these examples, the inductor may be configured to substantially maximize the load impedance at the first electro-optic conductive layer 28 at the desired AC frequency or frequency range. As another example, the electrical circuitry of the electro-optic elements 10A-10D may include a parallel LC circuit that electrically isolates the first electro-optic conductive layer 28 and the second electro-optic conductive layer 30 at a desired frequency or frequency range. In these examples, the parallel LC circuit may be configured to substantially maximize the load impedance at the first electro-optic conductive layer 28 at the desired frequency or frequency range. Utilizing the inductor or the parallel LC circuit to electrically isolate first electro-optic conductive layer 28 and second electro-optic conductive layer 30 at a desired frequency or frequency range allows first electro-optic conductive layer 28 to be driven with an AC guard waveform. The desired frequency or frequency range can be, but is not limited to, 500 kHz or less, such as less than 50 kHz, less than 100 kHz, less than 150 kHz, less than 200 kHz, less than 250 kHz, less than 300 kHz, less than 350 kHz, less than 400 kHz, less than 450 kHz, or less than 500 kHz, or any range bounded by any two of these values ​​(e.g., 50 kHz to 500 kHz, 50 kHz to 150 kHz, 100 kHz to 250 kHz, etc.).

[0067] Referring now to FIG. 2, a method 100 of operating electro-optical elements 10A-10D is disclosed. In step 102, the method includes driving capacitive touchscreen conductive layer 38 with an alternating current (AC) voltage. In step 104, the method includes driving each of first electro-optically conductive layer 28 and second electro-optically conductive layer 30 with a substantially in-phase AC voltage, the AC voltage being at a frequency or range of frequencies that electrically isolates first electro-optically conductive layer 28 and second electro-optically conductive layer 30, with a DC voltage offset that is in phase with and matches the AC voltage driving capacitive touchscreen layer 38. Step 104 may be accomplished using the electrical circuitry described above. Steps 102 and 104 may be performed simultaneously.

[0068] [Example]

[0069] [Example 1] Referring now to FIG. 3 , for Example 1, a computer-modeled electrical circuit was designed to drive the capacitive touchscreen conductive layer (TOUCH_Drive) with an AC voltage. The computer-modeled electrical circuit is shown at the bottom of FIG. 3 . The elements of the electrical circuit, labeled R1, R2, and C1, model the first electro-optic conductive layer, the second electro-optic layer, and the electrochromic medium. Element C3 was configured to resonate the L1-L2 parallel combination, increasing the load impedance at the excitation frequency of 100 kHz. Increasing the load impedance at the excitation frequency allows for the use of lower-power drivers and smaller, less expensive inductors for L1 and L2. The graphs above the electrical circuit in FIG. 3 show the impedance and phase angle of the AC voltage at the capacitive touchscreen conductive layer as a function of frequency.

[0070] [Example 2] 4 and 5, for Example 2, a computer-modeled electrical circuit was designed to drive the first electro-optically conductive layer (V_top) with an AC voltage (V3). The electrical circuit is shown at the bottom of FIG. 4. In FIG. 4, elements labeled R5, R6, and C1 model the electro-optical device between the first electro-optically conductive layer (V_top) and the second electro-optically conductive layer (V_bottom). Elements labeled L1 and C2 represent a parallel LC circuit that isolates the electro-optical element at a desired frequency of 100 kHz. Graphs shown above the electrical circuit illustrate the voltages on both the first electro-optically conductive layer (V_top) and the second electro-optically conductive layer (V_bottom) as a function of time. Both voltages are AC voltages that are substantially in phase, with the first electro-optically conductive layer (V_top) having a slightly larger voltage than the second electro-optically conductive layer 30 (V_bottom), thus providing a DC voltage offset.

[0071] The graph in Figure 5 shows the impedance and phase angle as a function of frequency of the AC decoupling element U3. The impedance is greatest near the desired frequency of 100 kHz, demonstrating the effect of the L1-C2 parallel LC circuit resonance, which increases the AC impedance of the load.

[0072] It will be understood by those skilled in the art that the construction of the described disclosure and other components is not limited to any particular materials. Other exemplary embodiments of the inventions disclosed herein may be formed from a wide variety of materials, except as otherwise noted herein.

[0073] For purposes of this disclosure, the term "coupled" (in all its forms, including couple, coupling, and coupled) generally refers to the joining of two components (electrical or mechanical) to one another, whether directly or indirectly. Such joining may be essentially static or essentially movable. Such joining may also be achieved with the two components (electrical or mechanical) and an additional intermediate member integrally molded with one another or with the two components as a single unit. Such joining may be essentially permanent, or may be essentially removable or releasable, unless otherwise specified.

[0074] It is also important to note that the construction and arrangement of elements of the present disclosure as shown in the exemplary embodiments is merely illustrative. While only a few embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail in this disclosure, those skilled in the art who review this disclosure will readily recognize that many modifications are possible (e.g., the size, dimensions, structure, shape and proportions of various elements, parameter values, attachment methods, use of materials, color, orientation, etc.) without departing from the novel teachings and advantages of the enumerated subject matter. For example, elements shown as integrally formed may be comprised of multiple pieces, and elements shown as multiple pieces may be integrally formed. The operation of interfaces may be reversed or otherwise varied, the structure and / or length or width of members or connectors or other elements of the system may be changed, and the nature or number of adjustment positions provided between elements may be altered. The elements and / or assemblies of the system may be constructed from any of a wide variety of materials that provide sufficient strength or durability, in any of a wide variety of colors, textures, and combinations. Consequently, all such modifications are intended to be within the scope of the present invention. Other substitutions, modifications, changes, and omissions may be made in the design, operating conditions, and arrangement of other exemplary embodiments as desired without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

[0075] It will be understood that any described process or step within a described process may be combined with other disclosed processes or steps to form a structure within the scope of the present disclosure. The exemplary structures and processes disclosed herein are for illustrative purposes and should not be construed as limiting.

Claims

1. An electro-optical element, an electrochromic medium; a substantially transparent first electro-optically conductive layer disposed on one side of the electrochromic medium; a second electro-optically conductive layer disposed on the other side of the electrochromic medium; a capacitive touchscreen conductive layer disposed on the first electro-optic conductive layer opposite the electrochromic medium, the capacitive touchscreen conductive layer having a pattern and being substantially transparent; a capacitive touchscreen insulating layer disposed between the capacitive touchscreen conductive layer and the first electro-optic conductive layer; an electrical circuit configured to: (i) drive at least one of the first electro-optically conductive layer and the second electro-optically conductive layer and a capacitive touch screen conductive layer with AC voltages that are substantially in phase; and (ii) provide an input DC voltage difference between the first electro-optically conductive layer and the second electro-optically conductive layer that is substantially constant at all times sampled for a set level of light transmission through the electrochromic medium; An electro-optical element comprising:

2. a second capacitive touch screen conductive layer disposed between the capacitive touch screen insulating layer and the first electro-optic conductive layer; a second capacitive touch screen insulating layer disposed between the second capacitive touch screen conductive layer and the first electro-optic conductive layer; 2. The electro-optical element according to claim 1, further comprising:

3. a first substrate disposed on the side of the first electro-optically conductive layer opposite the electrochromic medium; Further provided with The first substrate has (i) a first surface facing away from the first electro-optically conductive layer, and (ii) a second surface facing towards the first electro-optically conductive layer.

3. The electro-optical element according to claim 1, wherein the first and second electrodes are electrically connected to each other.

4. a second substrate disposed on the side of the second electro-optically conductive layer opposite the electrochromic medium; Further provided with the second substrate having (i) a third surface on which the second electro-optically conductive layer is disposed, and (ii) a fourth surface facing away from the electrochromic medium; the second substrate is disposed substantially parallel to and spaced apart from the first substrate such that the second surface of the first substrate faces the third surface of the second substrate; the electrochromic medium is disposed between the second surface of the first substrate and the third surface of the second substrate; The second electro-optically conductive layer is disposed on the third surface of the second substrate.

4. The electro-optical element according to claim 3.

5. the capacitive touchscreen conductive layer, the capacitive touchscreen insulating layer, the second capacitive touchscreen conductive layer, the second capacitive touchscreen insulating layer, and the first electro-optic conductive layer are disposed, respectively, in that order, on the second surface of the first substrate.

5. The electro-optical element according to claim 3 or 4.

6. the electrochromic medium comprises a solid composition; the second electro-optically conductive layer is disposed on the electrochromic medium; The electrochromic medium is disposed between the first electro-optically conductive layer and the second electro-optically conductive layer.

6. The electro-optical element according to claim 3, wherein the first and second electrodes are electrically connected to each other.

7. The first electro-optically conductive material is disposed directly on the second surface of the first substrate.

5. The electro-optical element according to claim 4.

8. a third substrate having a fifth surface facing the electrochromic medium and a sixth surface facing away from the electrochromic medium; Further provided with the capacitive touch screen conductive layer is disposed on the fifth surface of the third substrate; the capacitive touch screen insulating layer is disposed on the capacitive touch screen conductive layer; the second capacitive touch screen conductive layer is disposed on the capacitive touch screen insulating layer; the second capacitive touch screen insulating layer is disposed on the second capacitive touch screen conductive layer; The second capacitive touch screen insulating layer is an optically clear adhesive that bonds the second capacitive touch screen conductive layer to the first surface of the first substrate.

8. The electro-optical element according to claim 7.

9. a third substrate having a fifth surface facing the electrochromic medium and a sixth surface facing away from the electrochromic medium; Further provided with an optically clear adhesive disposed on the fifth surface of the third substrate; a fourth substrate disposed on the optically clear adhesive; the capacitive touch screen conductive layer is disposed on the fourth substrate; and the capacitive touch screen insulating layer is disposed on the capacitive touch screen conductive layer; the second capacitive touch screen conductive layer is disposed on the capacitive touch screen insulating layer; a fifth substrate disposed on the second capacitive touch screen conductive layer; the second capacitive touch screen insulating layer is disposed on the second capacitive touch screen conductive layer; the capacitive touch screen insulating layer is an optically clear adhesive that bonds the capacitive touch screen conductive layer to the second capacitive touch screen conductive layer; The second capacitive touch screen insulating layer is an optically clear adhesive that bonds the fifth substrate to the first surface of the first substrate.

8. The electro-optical element according to claim 7.

10. The electrical circuit electrically couples the capacitive touchscreen conductive layer to at least one of the first electro-optic conductive layer and the second electro-optic conductive layer.

10. The electro-optical element according to claim 1.

11. The electrical circuitry is not configured to separately drive the capacitive touchscreen conductive layer with an AC voltage.

11. The electro-optical element according to claim 1.

12. The electrical circuitry is configured to separately drive the capacitive touchscreen conductive layers with an AC voltage.

11. The electro-optical element according to claim 1.

13. The electrical circuit is configured such that the capacitive touchscreen conductive layer exhibits an AC voltage that is substantially in phase with the AC voltage driving the at least one of the first electro-optic conductive layer and the second electro-optic conductive layer.

13. The electro-optical element according to claim 1.

14. The electrical circuit includes a parallel LC circuit that electrically isolates the first electro-optically conductive layer and the second electro-optically conductive layer at a desired frequency or range of frequencies of the alternating current.

14. The electro-optical element according to claim 1.

15. The parallel LC circuit is configured to substantially maximize a load impedance across the first electro-optically conductive layer at a desired frequency or range of frequencies of the alternating current.

15. The electro-optical element according to claim 14.

16. The electrical circuit includes an inductor that isolates the first and second electro-optically conductive layers at a desired frequency or frequency range of the alternating current.

14. The electro-optical element according to claim 1.

17. The inductor is configured to substantially maximize a load impedance at the first electro-optically conductive layer at the desired frequency or frequency range of the alternating current.

17. The electro-optical element according to claim 16.

18. The electrical circuit is configured to drive the second electro-optically conductive layer with an AC voltage.

18. An electro-optical element according to claim 1.

19. The second electro-optically conductive layer is substantially reflective to electromagnetic radiation in the visible range.

19. An electro-optical element according to claim 1.

20. 1. A method of operating an electro-optical element, comprising: an electro-optic element comprising a first electro-optic conductive layer, a second electro-optic conductive layer, a capacitive touchscreen conductive layer, and electrical circuitry electrically coupling the capacitive touchscreen conductive layer to at least one of the first electro-optic conductive layer and the second electro-optic conductive layer; driving the capacitive touch screen conductive layer with an alternating current (AC) voltage; driving each of the first electro-optic conductive layer and the second electro-optic conductive layer with an AC voltage that is substantially in phase and has a DC voltage offset that is matched and in phase with the AC voltage driving the capacitive touch screen conductive layer, at a frequency or range of frequencies that electrically isolates the first electro-optic conductive layer and the second electro-optic conductive layer; A method comprising:

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