Dimmable window system for aircraft

Abstract

To provide an efficient and effective dimmable window system and method. [Solution] The dimmable window system 200 includes a window frame 204 that holds a window 205, a dimmable member 212, and an energy collector configured to collect energy in order to supply power to the dimmable member 212, as well as several other components of the dimmable window system 200. The dimmable window system 200 may be configured for vehicles such as aircraft.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Cross - Reference to Related Applications

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 735,968, filed on December 19, 2024, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

[0002]

[0002] Embodiments of the present disclosure generally relate to dimmable window systems for aircraft.

Background Art

[0003]

[0003] Various aircraft include a plurality of windows fixed to the fuselage. Typically, the windows include shades that passengers can grasp by hand and open or close.

[0004]

[0004] As another option, dimmable window systems have been developed. Dimmable window systems are controllable to provide a desired dimming to the windows. In this way, a structural shade would not be required.

[0005]

[0005] However, dimmable window systems are typically hard - wired to one or more power sources of an aircraft. Thus, dimmable window systems typically require substantial wiring and routing to operate. Further, the wiring can add weight to the aircraft and potentially reduce fuel efficiency.

Summary of the Invention

[0006]

[0006] There is a need for efficient and effective dimmable window systems and methods. Further, there is a need for lighter - weight dimmable window systems. Further, there is a need for simpler dimmable window systems. Also, there is a need for less - expensive dimmable window systems. There is also a need for dimmable window systems that can be installed on existing vehicles.

[0007]

[0007] In consideration of these needs, certain embodiments of the present disclosure provide dimmable window systems for vehicles. A dimmable window system includes a window frame that holds a window, a dimmable member, and an energy harvester configured to collect energy to provide power to the dimmable member.

[0008]

[0008] The energy collector may be coupled to a window frame. The window frame is configured to be fixed to a trim ring which is configured to be fixed within an opening formed in the body of the vehicle.

[0009]

[0009] In at least one embodiment, a control unit is configured to control the operation of a dimmable window system.

[0010]

[0010] In at least one embodiment, the energy storage device is configured to store the energy collected by the energy collector.

[0011]

[0011] The energy collector may include one or more solar cells. One or more solar cells may be fixed to the window frame.

[0012]

[0012] The energy collector may include a solar panel that overlaps either or both of the window or a dimmable component.

[0013]

[0013] The dust cover may be coupled to the window frame. Dimmable components may be coupled to the dust cover. The energy collector may include a solar film coupled to the dust cover.

[0014]

[0014] The energy collector may include a thermoelectric power generator. The thermoelectric power generator may be fixed to a crease beam (a structural element that treats a broken line as a beam) of the vehicle's body.

[0015]

[0015] The energy collector may include a vibration collector. The vibration collector may include one or more piezoelectric devices.

[0016]

[0016] The dimmable component may include one or more of the following: electrochromic, suspended particles, polymer-dispersed liquid crystal, polymer network liquid crystal, or polarizing-based film. The dimmable component may be electronically dimmable transparent glass or plastic panel or film.

[0017]

[0017] Certain embodiments of the present disclosure provide a method comprising collecting energy by an energy collector and providing power to a dimmable window system through such collection.

[0018]

[0018] As described herein, certain embodiments of the present disclosure provide vehicles including dimmable window systems. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0019] [Figure 1]

[0019] An oblique front view of an aircraft according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. [Figure 2]

[0020] This shows a perspective view of the interior cabin of an aircraft according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 3]

[0021] This diagram shows an isometric partial exploded view of a dimmable window system separated from the fuselage, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 4]

[0022] An isometric exploded view of a dimmable window system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. [Figure 5]

[0023] A side view of a dimmable window system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. [Figure 6]

[0024] Figure 5 shows a front view of the dimmable window system. [Figure 7]

[0025] Figure 5 shows an isometric front view of the dimmable window system. [Figure 8]

[0026] A side view of a dimmable window system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. [Figure 9]

[0027] A front view of the dimmable window system of FIG. 8 is shown. [Figure 10]

[0028] An isometric front view of the dimmable window system of FIG. 8 is shown. [Figure 11]

[0029] An isometric view of a dimmable window system fixed to a body according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. [Figure 12]

[0030] A cross-sectional view of the space between the side wall and the outer body structure of FIG. 11 is shown. [Figure 13]

[0031] A side view of a dimmable window system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. [Figure 14]

[0032] A front view of the dimmable window system of FIG. 13 is shown. [Figure 15]

[0033] An isometric front view of the dimmable window system of FIG. 13 is shown. [Figure 16]

[0034] A schematic block diagram of a control unit according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown.

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0020]

[0035] The above summary, as well as the following detailed descriptions of specific embodiments, will be better understood when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. When used herein, elements or steps described in the singular, following the term “one (a or an)” should be understood not necessarily exclude multiple elements or steps. Furthermore, when referring to “one embodiment,” it is not intended to be interpreted as excluding the existence of additional embodiments incorporating the features described herein. Moreover, embodiments “comprising” or “having” one or more elements having certain conditions may include additional elements that do not have such conditions (unless expressly stated otherwise).

[0021]

[0036] As described herein, several embodiments of the present disclosure provide electrically dimmable window systems powered by one or more energy collectors. In at least one embodiment, the energy collector, control unit, and energy storage system (such as one or more batteries) are integrated into a window frame assembly, thereby providing a standalone product that can be installed in various types of aircraft. The dimmable window system can be easily installed in existing aircraft.

[0022]

[0037] In at least one embodiment, a dimmable window system is configured for a vehicle. The dimmable window system includes a window frame, a dust cover coupled to the window frame, a dimmable component coupled to the dust cover, and an energy collector coupled to the window frame. The energy collector is configured to collect energy in order to supply power to the dimmable window system.

[0023]

[0038] In at least one embodiment, the dimmable window system further includes a control unit configured to control the operation of the dimmable window system. The energy storage device may be configured to store energy collected by an energy collector.

[0024]

[0039] In at least one embodiment, the energy collector includes one or more solar cells fixed to a window frame. In another embodiment, the energy collector includes a transparent solar film coupled to a dust cover. In yet another embodiment, the energy collector includes a thermoelectric power generator. In yet another embodiment, the energy collector includes one or more vibration collectors.

[0025]

[0040] Figure 1 shows a perspective front view of an aircraft 100 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. The aircraft 100 includes a propulsion system 112, which includes, for example, an engine 114. Optionally, the propulsion system 112 may include more engines 114 than shown. The engines 114 are supported by the wings 116 of the aircraft 100. In several other embodiments, the engines 114 may be supported by a fuselage 118 and / or a tail section 120. The tail section 120 may also support a horizontal stabilizer 122 and a vertical stabilizer 124.

[0026]

[0041] The fuselage 118 of the aircraft 100 defines an interior cabin 130, which includes a flight deck or cockpit, one or more work areas (e.g., a galley, a crew baggage area, etc.), one or more passenger areas (e.g., first class, business class, and coach area), one or more lavatories, etc.

[0027]

[0042] Alternatively, instead of aircraft, some embodiments of the present disclosure may be used with a variety of other vehicles, such as automobiles, buses, locomotives and trains, ships, and spacecraft. In yet another embodiment, some embodiments of the present disclosure may be used in fixed structures, such as residential or commercial buildings.

[0028]

[0043] Figure 2 shows a perspective interior view of an aircraft interior cabin 130 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. The interior cabin 130 includes an outboard wall 132 and a ceiling 134. A window 136 may be formed within the outboard wall 132. A floor 138 supports rows of seats 140. As shown in Figure 2, a row 142 may include three seats 140 on either side of an aisle 143. However, a row 142 may include more or fewer seats 140 than shown. Furthermore, the interior cabin 130 may include more aisles than shown.

[0029]

[0044] As used herein, the term “outboard” refers to a location further away from the central longitudinal section 150 of the internal cabin 130 compared to another component. The term “inboard” refers to a location closer to the central longitudinal section 150 of the internal cabin 130 compared to another component.

[0030]

[0045] Figure 3 shows an isometric partial exploded view of a dimmable window system 200 separated from the fuselage 202 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. The dimmable window system 200 includes a window frame 204 fixed to a trim ring 206, thereby forming an assembly, which is fixed within an opening 208 formed in the fuselage 202. The window frame 204 holds the window 205. Since the dimmable window system 200 is configured to be automatically and selectively dimmable, it does not need to include a shade track or window shade. Alternatively, the dimmable window system 200 may also include a shade track and a window shade.

[0031]

[0046] In at least one embodiment, the window frame 204 is attached to a trim ring 206. The trim ring 206 is bonded to the underside of the side wall of the fuselage 202. The assembly can be secured to the side wall using one or more latches or clips.

[0032]

[0047] Figure 4 shows an isometric exploded view of a dimmable window system 200 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. A dust cover 210 is fixed to a window frame 204. For example, the dust cover 210 is fixed over and / or covering the window 205 which is fixed within the window frame 204. An electrically dimmable member 212 is positioned on the dust cover 210. For example, the dimmable member 212 is attached to side B of the dust cover 210, thereby enabling easy installation and mounting on an aircraft. Several examples of the dimmable member 212 include electrochromic, suspended particle, polymer-dispersed liquid crystal, polymer network liquid crystal, and polarizing-based films.

[0033]

[0048] Optionally, the dimmable window system 200 does not have to include a dust cover 210. Instead, the dimmable component 212 may be positioned directly on and / or inside the window 205, which is fixed within the window frame 204.

[0034]

[0049] In at least one embodiment, the dimmable member 212 is an electrically dimmable film. In another embodiment, the dimmable member 212 is an electronically dimmable transparent glass or plastic panel.

[0035]

[0050] As described, the dimmable component 212 is positioned on the dust cover 210. In another embodiment, the dimmable component 212 replaces its dust cover 210. That is, the dimmable window system 200 does not need to include a separate dust cover.

[0036]

[0051] The dimmable window system 200 further includes an energy collector. The energy collector is configured to collect energy in order to power the dimmable component 212. The energy collector communicates with an energy storage device (such as one or more batteries) and / or a control unit via a wired or wireless connection, etc. The energy storage device receives the energy collected from the energy collector and stores the collected energy. The collected energy is used to power the dimmable window system 200. Optionally, the dimmable window system 200 does not have to include a separate energy storage device. Instead, the energy collector may be directly coupled to the control unit and the dimmable component 212 to power the dimmable window system.

[0037]

[0052] The control unit communicates with the dimmable component 212 via a wired or wireless connection. The control unit is configured to operate the dimmable component 212 to selectively dim and de-dim it. For example, the dimmable component 212 may be operated by individually tapping the window at one or more defined positions to increase the opacity of the window. Furthermore, the individual may tap the window at one or more defined positions to decrease the opacity and increase the transparency. In another embodiment, a user interface including one or more buttons, dials, switches, etc., may communicate with the control unit and be operated by the individual to selectively control the dimmable window system 200. The user interface may be mounted on interior parts such as the window frame 204, trim rings, and side walls.

[0038]

[0053] Figure 5 shows a side view of a dimmable window system 200 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 6 shows a front view of the dimmable window system 200 of Figure 5. Figure 7 shows an isometric front view of the dimmable window system 200 of Figure 5. Referring to Figures 5 to 7, the dimmable window system 200 includes an energy collector 220 fixed to the window frame 204. In at least one embodiment, the energy collector 220 includes one or more solar cells 222 fixed to the periphery of the window frame 204 (e.g., the outboard side of the window frame 204). The solar cells 222 collect solar energy. The solar energy is used to power the dimmable window system 200. Thus, the dimmable window system 200 is not coupled to another power source of the aircraft.

[0039]

[0054] As illustrated, the housing 224 may be mounted on or within part of the window frame 204. The housing 224 holds the control unit 226 and the energy storage device 228 (e.g., one or more batteries). The solar cell 222 is coupled to one or both of the control unit 226 and / or the energy storage device 228. The solar energy collected by the solar cell 222 is stored in the energy storage device 228.

[0040]

[0055] The housing 224 may be positioned on and / or within the window frame 204 in the lower portion below the window 205. Optionally, the housing 224 may be positioned in several other locations, such as above or to the side of the window 205. In another embodiment, the housing 224 may be separated from the window frame 204 and configured to be fixed, for example, within a portion of the fuselage wall.

[0041]

[0056] Figure 8 shows a side view of a dimmable window system 200 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 9 shows a front view of the dimmable window system 200 of Figure 8. Figure 10 shows an isometric front view of the dimmable window system 200 of Figure 8. Referring to Figures 8 to 10, in this embodiment the energy collector 220 includes a solar panel 230. The solar panel 230 overlaps the window 205 and / or dimmable member 212, for example, on the outboard side of the dimmable member 212. A transparent photovoltaic panel may be coupled, for example, to the dimmable member 212 and / or dust cover, or an opaque photovoltaic panel may be arranged in a decorative pattern on the dimmable member 212 and / or dust cover.

[0042]

[0057] Figure 11 shows an isometric view of a dimmable window system 200 fixed to the fuselage 202 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 12 shows a cross-sectional view of the space between the side wall and the outer fuselage structure in Figure 11. As shown in Figure 12, the fuselage 202 includes an outer panel 203. The outboard wall 132 of the interior cabin 130 is separated by a space 209. Insulation 211 may be placed in the space 209 between the outer panel 203 and the wall 132. An air grille 243 may be placed above the floor 138 of the interior cabin 130.

[0043]

[0058] Referring to Figures 11 and 12, in this embodiment, the energy collector 220 includes a thermoelectric generator 240. The thermoelectric generator 240 may be mounted, installed, or otherwise fixed to the crease beam 241. The crease beam 241 extends inward from the outer hull 203, thereby utilizing the temperature difference between the relatively cold structure of the fuselage outer hull 203 and the warmer return air 245 inside the interior cabin 130.

[0044]

[0059] In at least one embodiment, the thermoelectric generator 240 is connected to the window frame 204 by wire. After the window frame 204 is installed, the thermoelectric generator 240 can be dropped into the space 209. The air grille 243 is then opened to allow the thermoelectric generator 240 to be mounted on the crease beam 241.

[0045]

[0060] Figure 13 shows a side view of a dimmable window system 200 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 14 shows a front view of the dimmable window system 200 of Figure 13. Figure 15 shows an isometric front view of the dimmable window system 200 of Figure 13. Referring to Figures 13 to 15, in this embodiment the energy collector 220 includes one or more vibration collectors 250 fixed to the periphery of the window frame 204. The vibration collectors 250 may be mounted on either the outboard-facing side of the window frame 204. In one embodiment, the vibration collector 250 is a piezoelectric device that converts vibration energy into energy used to power the dimmable window system 200.

[0046]

[0061] Figure 16 shows a schematic block diagram of a control unit 226 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. In at least one embodiment, the control unit 226 includes at least one processor 260 that communicates with a memory 262. The memory 262 stores instructions 264, received data 266, and generated data 268. The control unit 226 shown in Figure 16 is merely illustrative and not limiting.

[0047]

[0062] As used herein, terms such as “control unit,” “central processing unit,” “CPU,” and “computer” may include any processor-based or microprocessor-based system, including systems using microcontrollers, reduced instruction set computers (RISK), application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), logic circuits, and any other circuits or processors (including hardware, software, or combinations thereof capable of performing the functions described herein). The above examples are illustrative and are therefore not intended to limit in any way the definition and / or meaning of the above terms. For example, control unit 226 may be, or include, one or more processors configured to control the operation as described herein.

[0048]

[0063] The control unit 226 is configured to execute a set of instructions stored in one or more data storage units or elements (such as one or more memories) in order to process data. For example, the control unit 226 may include or be coupled to one or more memories. The data storage unit may also store data or other information as desired or as needed. The data storage unit may take the form of a source of information or a physical memory element inside the processing machine.

[0049]

[0064] The set of instructions may include a variety of commands that instruct the control unit 226, acting as a processing machine, to perform specific operations (e.g., methods and processes of various embodiments of the subject matter described herein). The set of instructions may take the form of a software program. The software may take various forms, such as system software or application software. Furthermore, the software may take the form of a collection of separate programs, a subset of programs within a larger program, or a part of a program. The software may further include modular programming in the form of object-oriented programming. The processing of input data by the processing machine may be in response to user commands, the results of previous processing, or a request made by another processing machine.

[0050]

[0065] The figures of some embodiments herein may show one or more control units or processing units, such as control unit 226. It should be understood that this processing unit or control unit may represent a circuit, network, or part thereof, which can be implemented as hardware having associated instructions (e.g., software stored in a tangible, non-transient computer-readable storage medium such as a computer hard drive, ROM, RAM, etc.) that perform the operations described herein. The hardware may include a state machine network wired and connected to perform the functions described herein. Optionally, the hardware may include and / or electronic circuits connected to one or more logic-based devices, such as microprocessors, processors, controllers, etc. Optionally, control unit 226 may represent a processing network, such as one or more field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), or (one or more) microprocessors. The circuits of various embodiments may be configured to execute one or more algorithms to perform the functions described herein. One or more algorithms may include multiple embodiments of the embodiments disclosed herein, whether or not they are explicitly identified in the flow charts or methods.

[0051]

[0066] As used herein, the terms “software” and “firmware” are interchangeable and include any computer program stored in a data storage unit (e.g., one or more memories) for execution by a computer, including RAM memory, ROM memory, EPROM memory, EEPROM memory, and non-volatile RAM (NVRAM) memory. The types of data storage units described above are merely illustrative and therefore not limited to the types of memory that can be used for storing computer programs.

[0052]

[0067] Referring to Figures 1 to 16, dimmable window systems can be installed on new vehicles (e.g., aircraft) or fitted into existing vehicles. Dimmable window systems include their own power supply (i.e., energy collector) and therefore do not need to be coupled to the aircraft's power supply, thereby enabling easier installation and reducing the aircraft's weight (as no further wiring is used to connect to the aircraft's power supply).

[0053]

[0068] In at least one embodiment, the dimmable window system 200 is powered to a dimmed state. When the power is cut off, the dimmable window system returns to a clear, transparent state.

[0054]

[0069] In at least one embodiment, the energy collector may include a solar cell, a solar film, a thermoelectric power generation device, and (one or more) vibration collectors. For example, the energy collector may include one or more solar cells, a solar film, a thermoelectric power generation device, and one or more vibration collectors.

[0055]

[0070] Furthermore, this disclosure includes several embodiments as defined below.

[0056]

[0071] Article 1. A dimmable window system for vehicles, Window frame that holds the window, Dimmable components, and A dimmable window system comprising an energy collector configured to collect energy in order to supply power to the dimmable component.

[0057]

[0072] Article 2. The energy collector is coupled to the window frame in the dimmable window system as described in Clause 1.

[0058]

[0073] Article 3. The dimmable window system according to Clause 1 or 2, wherein the window frame is configured to be fixed to a trim ring configured to be fixed within an opening formed in the body of the vehicle.

[0059]

[0074] Article 4. The dimmable window system according to any one of the clauses 1 to 3, further comprising a control unit configured to control the operation of the dimmable window system.

[0060]

[0075] Article 5. A dimmable window system according to any one of the clauses 1 to 4, further comprising an energy storage device configured to store the energy collected by the energy collector.

[0061]

[0076] Article 6. The energy collector is a dimmable window system as described in any one of clauses 1 to 5, comprising one or more solar cells.

[0062]

[0077] Article 7. The dimmable window system described in Clause 6, wherein the one or more solar cells are fixed to the window frame.

[0063]

[0078] Article 8. The dimmable window system according to any one of Clauses 1 to 7, wherein the energy collector includes a solar panel overlapping one or both of the window or the dimmable component.

[0064]

[0079] Article 9. A dimmable window system according to any one of the clauses 1 to 8, further comprising a dust cover coupled to the window frame, wherein the dimmable member is coupled to the dust cover.

[0065]

[0080] Article 10. The energy collector is a dimmable window system according to Clause 9, comprising a solar film coupled to the dust cover.

[0066]

[0081] Article 11. The energy collector is a dimmable window system as described in any one of clauses 1 to 10, including a thermoelectric power generation device.

[0067]

[0082] Article 12. The thermoelectric power generation device is fixed to the crease beam of the vehicle's fuselage, in the dimmable window system as described in Clause 11.

[0068]

[0083] Article 13. The energy collector is a dimmable window system as described in any one of Clauses 1 to 12, including a vibration collector.

[0069]

[0084] Article 14. The vibration collector is a dimmable window system according to Clause 13, comprising one or more piezoelectric devices.

[0070]

[0085] Article 15. The dimmable window system according to Clauses 1 to 14, wherein the dimmable component includes one or more of the following: electrochromic, suspended particles, polymer-dispersed liquid crystal, polymer network liquid crystal, or a polarizing-based film.

[0071]

[0086] Article 16. The dimmable window system according to any one of the clauses 1 to 15, wherein the dimmable component is an electronically dimmable transparent glass or plastic panel.

[0072]

[0087] Article 17. A method for a dimmable window system for a vehicle, wherein the dimmable window system is Window frame that holds the window, Dimmable components, and To supply power to the dimmable component, an energy collector configured to collect energy is provided, The aforementioned method, The energy collector collects energy, and A method comprising providing power to the dimmable member through the collection of the aforementioned data.

[0073]

[0088] Article 18. The method according to clause 17, further comprising fixing the energy collector to the crease beam of the vehicle's fuselage.

[0074]

[0089] Article 19. It is a vehicle, The body that defines the opening, The opening comprises a dimmable window system fixed within at least a portion thereof, and the dimmable window system is A window frame that holds a window, the window frame being fixed to a trim ring fixed within the opening, Dimmable components, A control unit configured to control the operation of the dimmable window system, An energy collector coupled to the window frame, configured to collect energy in order to supply power to the dimmable member and the control unit, and A vehicle comprising an energy storage device configured to store the energy collected by the energy collector.

[0075]

[0090] Article 20. The aforementioned energy collector is 1 or more solar cells, A solar panel overlapping one or both of the aforementioned window or the dimmable member, Solar film attached to the dust cover, Thermoelectric power generation device, and A vehicle as described in Clause 19, including one or more of the following: vibration collectors.

[0076]

[0091] As described herein, several embodiments of the present disclosure provide efficient and effective dimmable window systems and methods. Furthermore, several embodiments of the present disclosure provide lighter and more compact dimmable window systems. Furthermore, several embodiments of the present disclosure provide simpler and less complex dimmable window systems. In addition, several embodiments of the present disclosure provide cost-effective dimmable window systems.

[0077]

[0092] For the purpose of describing the embodiments of this disclosure, various spatial and directional terms such as top, bottom, bottom, center, lateral, horizontal, vertical, and forward may be used, but it should be understood that such terms are used only in relation to the orientation shown in the drawings. These orientations may be reversed, rotated, or otherwise changed, resulting in top becoming bottom, bottom becoming top, or horizontal becoming vertical.

[0078]

[0093] When used herein, any structure, limitation, or element “configured to perform a work or action” is structurally formed, configured, or adapted in particular to correspond to the work or action. For clarity and to avoid misunderstanding, any object that can be modified to perform a work or action is not “configured / set up to perform a work or action” as used herein.

[0079]

[0094] The above description should be understood as illustrative, not limiting. For example, the examples (and / or embodiments thereof) described above can be used in combination with each other. In addition, many modifications can be made to adapt the teachings of the various embodiments of this disclosure to specific situations or materials without departing from the scope of this disclosure. The dimensions and types of materials described herein are intended to define the embodiments of the various embodiments of this disclosure, but the embodiments are illustrative, not limiting. Many other embodiments will become apparent to those skilled in the art by examining the above description. The scope of the various embodiments of this disclosure should be determined in relation to the appended claims and the entire scope of equivalents to which such claims are recognized. In the appended claims and embodiments for carrying out the invention herein, the words “including” and “in which” are used as plain English synonyms for “comprising” and “wherein,” respectively. Furthermore, terms such as “first,” “second,” and “third” are used merely as labels and are not intended to impose numerical requirements on those objects. Moreover, the following limitations on the claims are not written in means-plus-function form and are not intended to be interpreted under Section 112(f) of the U.S. Patent Act unless or not explicitly used with the phrase “means for” followed by a description of a function lacking further structure.

[0080]

[0095] The use of examples in the description herein is intended to disclose various embodiments of the disclosure, including the best mode, and to enable a person skilled in the art to carry out various embodiments of the disclosure, including creating and using any device or system and implementing any incorporated method. The patentability of the various embodiments of the disclosure is defined by the claims and may include other embodiments that a person skilled in the art can imagine. Such other embodiments are intended to be within the scope of the claims if the embodiment has structural elements that are not different from the language of the claims, or if the embodiment includes equivalent structural elements that differ only slightly from the language of the claims.

Claims

1. A dimmable window system (200) for a vehicle, A window frame (204) that holds the window (205), Dimmable member (212), and A dimmable window system (200) comprising an energy collector (220) configured to collect energy in order to supply power to the dimmable component (212).

2. The dimmable window system (200) according to claim 1, wherein the energy collector (220) is coupled to the window frame (204).

3. The dimmable window system (200) according to claim 1, wherein the window frame (204) is configured to be fixed to a trim ring (206) configured to be fixed within an opening formed in the body (202) of the vehicle.

4. The dimmable window system (200) according to claim 1, further comprising a control unit (226) configured to control the operation of the dimmable window system (200).

5. The dimmable window system (200) according to claim 1, further comprising an energy storage device (228) configured to store the energy collected by the energy collector (220).

6. The dimmable window system (200) according to claim 1, wherein the energy collector (220) includes one or more solar cells (222).

7. The dimmable window system (200) according to claim 6, wherein the one or more solar cells (222) are fixed to the window frame (204).

8. The dimmable window system (200) according to claim 1, wherein the energy collector (220) includes a solar panel that overlaps either or both of the window (205) or the dimmable member (212).

9. The dimmable window system (200) according to claim 1, further comprising a dust cover (210) coupled to the window frame (204), wherein the dimmable member (212) is coupled to the dust cover (210).

10. The dimmable window system (200) according to claim 9, wherein the energy collector (220) includes a solar film coupled to the dust cover (210).

11. The dimmable window system (200) according to claim 1, wherein the energy collector (220) includes a thermoelectric power generation device (240).

12. The dimmable window system (200) according to claim 11, wherein the thermoelectric power generation device (240) is fixed to the crease beam of the vehicle's body (202).

13. The dimmable window system (200) according to claim 1, wherein the energy collector (220) includes a vibration collector (250).

14. The dimmable window system (200) according to claim 13, wherein the vibration collector (250) includes one or more piezoelectric devices.

15. The dimmable window system (200) according to claim 1, wherein the dimmable member (212) includes one or more of the following: electrochromic, suspended particles, polymer-dispersed liquid crystal, polymer network liquid crystal, or a polarizing-based film.

16. The dimmable window system (200) according to claim 1, wherein the dimmable member (212) is an electronically dimmable transparent glass or plastic panel.

17. A method for a dimmable window system (200) for a vehicle, wherein the dimmable window system (200) is A window frame (204) that holds the window (205), Dimmable member (212), and To supply power to the dimmable member (212), an energy collector (220) configured to collect energy is provided, The aforementioned method, The energy collector (220) collects energy, and A method comprising providing power to the dimmable member (212) by collecting the aforementioned data.

18. The method according to claim 17, further comprising fixing the energy collector (220) to the crease beam of the vehicle's body (202).

19. It is a vehicle, A fuselage (202) that defines the opening, The opening comprises a dimmable window system (200) fixed within at least a portion thereof, wherein the dimmable window system (200) A window frame (204) that holds a window (205), the window frame (204) being fixed to a trim ring (206) fixed within the opening, Dimmable component (212), A control unit (226) configured to control the operation of the dimmable window system (200), An energy collector (220) coupled to the window frame (204), configured to collect energy in order to supply power to the dimmable member (212) and the control unit (226), and A vehicle comprising an energy storage device (228) configured to store the energy collected by the energy collector (220).

20. The aforementioned energy collector (220) One or more solar cells (222), A solar panel overlapping one or both of the window (205) or the dimmable member (212), Solar film attached to dust cover (210), Thermoelectric power generation device (240), and The vehicle according to claim 19, comprising one or more of the vibration collectors (250).

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