Optical modulator and substrate having an energy conversion layer

Abstract

Several embodiments relate to transparent substrates for use in optical modulators. The optical modulator has an optical layer. The transparent substrate has at least one electrode system applied to the substrate. The electrode system comprises a stack of substrate-side electrodes, an energy conversion layer, and optical layer-side electrodes. The optical layer-side electrodes are positioned to modulate the electric field within the optical layer. The energy conversion layer is configured to perform a conversion between energy outside the substrate and the voltage difference between the substrate-side electrodes and the optical layer-side electrodes.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The subject matter disclosed to date relates to transparent substrates for use in optical modulators, optical modulators, methods and systems for optical modulators, computer storage media, and methods for manufacturing substrates. [Background technology]

[0002] Known optical modulators are disclosed in WO2022023180, which is incorporated herein by reference. Known optical modulators comprise a transparent or reflective substrate. Multiple electrodes are applied to the substrate in a pattern traversing the substrate. A controller may apply potentials to the electrodes to obtain an electromagnetic field between the electrodes that provides electrophoretic motion of particles toward or away from the electrodes. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] International Publication No. 2022 / 023180 [Patent Document 2] International Publication No. 2011 / 012499 [Patent Document 3] International Publication No. 2011 / 131689 [Patent Document 4] U.S. Patent No. 10921678 [Patent Document 5] U.S. Patent No. 8054535 [Patent Document 6] U.S. Patent No. 8384658 [Patent Document 7] U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2005 / 185104 [Patent Document 8] U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018 / 0239211 [Patent Document 9] U.S. Patent No. 5161048 [Patent Document 10] U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2005 / 0185104 [Overview of the project]

[0004] Having an improved optical modulator and an improved substrate usable therewith is advantageous. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] An embodiment of a transparent substrate for use in an optical modulator comprises a substrate-side electrode, an energy conversion layer, and an optical layer-side electrode. The optical layer-side electrode is positioned to modulate the electric field within the optical layer of the optical modulator. The energy conversion layer is configured to perform a conversion between energy outside the substrate and the voltage difference between the substrate-side electrode and the optical layer-side electrode.

[0006] In embodiments, the energy conversion layer comprises a photovoltaic stack configured to convert light incident on the substrate into a voltage difference. However, different choices can be made regarding the energy conversion layer. Having the energy conversion layer within the substrate of the optical modulator is efficient because it generates energy. Furthermore, the energy conversion layer can be used in places where energy conversion, such as solar cells, is not normally possible, such as when required for glazing. Moreover, combining the energy conversion layer with the optical modulator requires fewer electrodes than when the energy conversion layer and optical modulator are used separately. Furthermore, optical layers, particularly fluid-based, such as e-ink-based optical layers, further benefit the system by acting as a heat sink for the energy conversion layer.

[0007] The embodiments include, as in the embodiments, an optical modulator method for an optical modulator and a method for manufacturing a substrate. Embodiments of the method may be implemented on a computer as a computer-implemented method, in dedicated hardware, or a combination of both. Executable code for embodiments of the method may be stored on a computer program product. Examples of computer program products include memory devices, optical storage devices, integrated circuits, servers, and online software. Preferably, the computer program product includes non-temporary program code stored on a computer-readable medium to perform embodiments of the method when the program product is executed on a computer.

[0008] In embodiments, the computer program includes computer program code adapted to perform all or part of the steps of the embodiment of the method when the computer program is executed on a computer. Preferably, the computer program is embodied on a computer-readable medium. Another aspect of the subject matter now disclosed is a method for making a computer program available for download.

[0009] Further details, aspects, and embodiments are described by reference to the drawings, merely as examples. Elements in the drawings are shown for simplification and clarity and are not necessarily drawn according to a constant proportional scale. In the drawings, elements corresponding to elements already described may have the same reference numerals. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0010] [Figure 1a] This diagram schematically shows an example of a building block embodiment. [Figure 1b] This figure schematically shows an example of a substrate embodiment. [Figure 1c] This figure schematically shows an example of a substrate embodiment. [Figure 1d] This figure schematically shows an example of a substrate embodiment. [Figure 1e]It is a diagram schematically showing an example of an embodiment of a substrate. [Figure 1f] It is a diagram schematically showing an example of an embodiment of a substrate. [Figure 1g] It is a diagram schematically showing an example of an embodiment of an optical modulator. [Figure 2a] It is a diagram schematically showing an example of an embodiment of a substrate. [Figure 2b] It is a diagram schematically showing an example of an embodiment of a substrate. [Figure 2c] It is a diagram schematically showing an example of an embodiment of a substrate. [Figure 2d] It is a diagram schematically showing an example of an embodiment of a substrate. [Figure 2e] It is a diagram schematically showing an example of an embodiment of a substrate. [Figure 2f] It is a diagram schematically showing an example of an embodiment of a substrate. [Figure 3a] It is a diagram schematically showing an example of an embodiment of an optical modulator. [Figure 3b] It is a diagram schematically showing an example of an embodiment of an optical modulator. [Figure 3c] It is a diagram schematically showing an example of an embodiment of a vehicle. [Figure 4a] It is a diagram schematically showing an embodiment of an optical modulator. [Figure 4b] It is a diagram schematically showing an embodiment of an optical modulator. [Figure 4c] It is a diagram schematically showing an embodiment of an optical modulator. [Figure 5] It is a diagram schematically showing the materials used in an embodiment of an optical modulator. [Figure 6a] It is a diagram schematically showing an example of an embodiment of a two - electrode optical modulator. [Figure 6b] It is a diagram schematically showing an example of an embodiment of a two - electrode optical modulator. [Figure 7a] It is a diagram schematically showing an example of an embodiment of a two - electrode optical modulator. [Figure 7b] It is a diagram schematically showing an example of an embodiment of a two - electrode optical modulator. [Figure 7c] It is a diagram schematically showing an example of an embodiment of a two - electrode optical modulator. [Figure 7d] This figure schematically shows an example of an embodiment of a two-electrode optical modulator. [Figure 7e] This figure schematically shows an example of an embodiment of a two-electrode optical modulator. [Figure 7f] This figure schematically shows an example of an embodiment of a two-electrode optical modulator. [Figure 7g] This figure schematically shows an example of an embodiment of a two-electrode optical modulator. [Figure 8a] This diagram schematically shows an example of an embodiment of a three-electrode optical modulator. [Figure 9a] This figure schematically shows an example of an embodiment of a four-electrode optical modulator. [Figure 9b] This figure schematically shows an example of an embodiment of a four-electrode optical modulator. [Figure 9c] This figure schematically shows an example of an embodiment of a four-electrode optical modulator. [Figure 9d] This figure schematically shows an example of an embodiment of a four-electrode optical modulator. [Figure 9e] This figure schematically shows an example of an embodiment of a four-electrode optical modulator. [Figure 10a] This figure schematically illustrates an example of an embodiment of an optical modulator system. [Figure 10b] This figure schematically shows an example of an embodiment of a two-electrode optical modulator system. [Figure 10c] This figure schematically shows an example of an embodiment of a three-electrode optical modulator system. [Figure 10d] This figure schematically shows an example of an embodiment of a four-electrode optical modulator system. [Figure 11a] This diagram schematically shows an example of an embodiment of a power generator system. [Figure 11b] This diagram schematically shows an example of an embodiment of a power generator system. [Figure 12] This figure schematically shows an example of an embodiment of a four-electrode optical modulator system. [Figure 13a] This diagram schematically illustrates an example of a control method for a four-electrode optical modulator system. [Figure 13b]This diagram schematically illustrates an example of a control method for a four-electrode optical modulator system. [Figure 14] This diagram schematically illustrates an example of a control method for an optical modulator. [Figure 15a] This figure schematically illustrates a computer-readable medium having a writable portion containing a computer program, according to an embodiment. [Figure 15b] This figure schematically illustrates a representation of a processor system according to an embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0011] Reference Code List The following list of references and abbreviations used in some of the figures is provided to facilitate the interpretation of the figures and shall not be construed as limiting the scope of the claims.

[0012] 10 Optical modulator 11. First substrate 12 Second substrate 13, 13a, 13b electrode 14, 14a, 14b electrode 15 Fluid 16 Controllers 30 particles 20 cars 21 Optical modulator 40 Optical modulators 41 First substrate 42 Second substrate 43 Third substrate 46 controllers 100-102 circuit board 111-114 Main line 121-124 Main Line 131-134 Comb-shaped electrodes 140 Building Blocks 141-144 Building Blocks 110, 120 drive bus 110', 120' drive bus 119, 129 connection zones 191, 192 direction 603-604 circuit board 611-622 Building Blocks 651-662 Building Blocks 151 Spacer 211 Transparent substrate 212 Electrode 213 Energy conversion layer 214 Dielectric Materials 215 Spacer 301, 302 Optical layer side electrode 303, 304 Optical layer side electrode 303.1 Optical layer side electrode - patterned layer 303.2 Optical layer side electrode - large area layer 301.1 Optical layer side electrode - patterned layer 301.2 Optical layer side electrode - large area layer 305, 306 Substrate-side electrodes 307, 308 Transparent substrate 309 Energy conversion layer 310 Optical layer 311 Dielectric layer 312 Spacer 321 Optical modulator 314, 315 Substrate-side electrodes 321-332 Optical modulator 410 Power Generation Systems 420-423 Optical Modulator Drive System 431-435 Selective connection part 413 Diode 400 Selective Connection Systems 410 Power Generation Systems 420 Optical Modulator Drive System 500 Optical Modulators 505 Substrate-side electrode 503 Optical layer side electrode 501 Optical layer side electrode 510 Energy conversion layer 520 grid 411 Charger 412 Batteries 415 Voltage Converter 414 Wall plug 1000, 1001 Computer-readable media 1010 Writable portion 1020 Computer Programs 1110 Integrated circuits (multiple possible) 1120 Processing Units 1122 memory 1124 Dedicated Integrated Circuit 1126 Communication elements 1130 Interconnect 1140 Processor System

[0013] While the subject matter of this disclosure can take many different forms, one or more specific embodiments will be shown in the drawings and described herein in detail, with the understanding that this disclosure is intended to be an illustrative example of the principles of the subject matter of this disclosure and is not intended to limit the disclosure to any particular embodiment shown and described.

[0014] In the following, for the sake of understanding, the elements of the embodiment will be described in terms of their operation. However, it will be clear that each element is configured to perform the function described as being carried out by that element.

[0015] Furthermore, the subject matter of this disclosure is not limited to embodiments only, but also includes all other combinations of features described herein or described in dependent claims that differ from each other.

[0016] Embodiments of optical modulators capable of generating electricity in addition to modulating light passing through them are described herein. For example, an optical modulator may consist of one of several states ranging from transparent to opaque. The optical modulator combines an optical layer for modulating light with an energy conversion layer to convert energy between one form and another. Both the optical layer and the energy conversion layer typically require at least one electrode on either side, and interestingly, it becomes possible to share one electrode between the optical layer and the energy conversion layer, thus saving electrodes.

[0017] Many embodiments are possible. For example, various types of optical layers and various energy conversion layers. Some types of optical layers use two electrodes, one electrode on each side, and some types of optical layers use three electrodes, two electrodes on one side and one electrode on the other. Some optical layers use four electrodes or even more. Embodiments will be referred to as 2-electrode, 3-electrode, or 4-electrode to refer to the type of optical layer. The optical modulator may have additional electrodes, for example, for the energy conversion layer.

[0018] Furthermore, the electrode arrangement configuration may vary. Similarly, the methods by which energy conversion and optical modulation are driven may differ. For example, in some embodiments, a system of selective connectors is used to use electrodes for either energy conversion or optical modulation. In some embodiments, energy conversion and optical modulation occur in parallel.

[0019] For example, a substrate for use in optical modulators, particularly in dynamic glazing, is disclosed. The substrate is transparent, and at least one optical layer side electrode is applied to the side of the substrate, and the optical layer side electrode extends in a pattern across the side of the first substrate.

[0020] The substrate is intended for use in an optical modulator having an optical layer. Typically, the optical modulator has the first substrate and a second substrate positioned opposite the first substrate. The optical layer extends between the first and second substrates. The second substrate also has at least one optical layer-side electrode applied to the second substrate. The optical properties of the optical modulator can be modified by applying a potential between the optical layer-side electrodes of the two substrates.

[0021] Interestingly, the first substrate also has substrate-side electrodes and an energy conversion layer. The energy conversion layer is located between the substrate-side electrodes and the optical layer-side electrodes of the first substrate. While various choices exist for the energy conversion layer, a particularly advantageous choice is a photovoltaic stack. The energy conversion layer performs the conversion between energy from outside the substrate and the voltage difference between the substrate-side electrodes and the optical layer-side electrodes.

[0022] Many types of optical modulators exist that may use such substrates. Figures 1a-4c focus on the optical layer side electrodes on the first and second substrates, and how they may be mounted or used in an optical modulator. Figures 5 and below focus on the energy conversion layer and how the electrodes interact with it.

[0023] Some known optical modulators are based on the principle of electrophoresis. For example, a substrate may have multiple comb-shaped optical layer electrodes applied to the substrate, for example, two electrodes, each of which is arranged in a pattern across the substrate, and the multiple comb-shaped optical layer electrodes are arranged alternately relative to each other on the substrate. Having multiple comb-shaped electrodes allows for local control of the electric field and enables control of particle electrophoresis.

[0024] Electrophoretic optical modulators are described more extensively herein and are used as motivational examples. In embodiments, the optical modulator comprises a first substrate and a second substrate. At least one of the first and second substrates may conform to embodiments having perforated electrodes. For example, the first and second substrates may be arranged so that their inner surfaces face each other. Using substrates according to embodiments has the effect of reducing optical interference, for example. An optical layer is placed between the first and second substrates. Optical layer side electrodes are placed to modulate the electric field within the optical layer. The optical layer contains a fluid containing particles, which are electrically charged or rechargeable. The particles may move under the control of the electric field. For example, a controller may be configured to apply a potential to the optical layer side electrodes to obtain an electromagnetic field at the optical layer side electrodes, resulting in electrophoretic motion of particles toward or from one of the at least one optical layer side electrodes causing modulation of the optical properties of the optical modulator.

[0025] Below, several known optical modulators are reviewed, and some options in terms of technique and electrodes are shown. These known substrates can be advantageously modified by perforating electrodes. These examples also show optical modulators having varying numbers of electrodes on the substrate. An energy conversion layer may be incorporated into the device according to embodiments, in particular embodiments adjusted with respect to the number of electrodes adjacent to the optical layer side electrodes, e.g., electrodes adjacent to a layer having modifiable optical properties. The energy conversion layer and substrate side electrodes may be inserted between the substrate and the optical layer side electrodes.

[0026] International patent applications WO2011012499A1 (included herein by reference) and WO2011131689 (included herein by reference) disclose electrophoretic display devices, for example, optical modulators in the form of e-ink displays. Pixels of the display comprise a storage electrode and a field electrode, the storage electrode being located in a storage area for accumulating charged particles, away from the aperture area, and the field electrode occupying the field electrode area being at least a portion of the aperture area of ​​the pixel, and the charged particles being movable between the storage electrode and the field electrode. In embodiments, the two electrodes are applied to a single substrate. The storage electrode and / or field electrode may be perforated.

[0027] U.S. Patent No. 1,0921678, included herein by reference and having the title “Electrophoretic device,” describes an electrophoretic device having only one patterned electrode on one of two substrates. For example, one substrate having an electrode according to U.S. Patent No. 1,0921678 may be replaced with a substrate according to an embodiment having a single electrode. For example, the embodiment comprises a first transparent substrate having a field electrode, and a second substrate facing the first substrate having a storage electrode. The first and second substrates surround pixels with fluid and particles. During use, an electromagnetic field applied to the field electrode and the storage electrode provides for the movement of particles from the field electrode and the storage electrode, and vice versa. The field electrode and / or storage electrode may be perforated.

[0028] U.S. Patent No. 8,054,535,B2 (included herein by reference) and U.S. Patent No. 8,384,658,B2 (included herein by reference) provide examples of alternatives to electrophoretic photomodulators having one of two substrates with two patterned electrodes.

[0029] Patterned electrodes are also used in dielectrophoretic photomodulators. For example, U.S. Patent Application No. 2005185104A1 (included herein by reference) and U.S. Patent Application No. 20180239211A1 (included herein by reference) illustrate dielectrophoretic photomodulators having a substrate with patterned electrodes. Either of these cited electrophoretic photomodulators or dielectrophoretic photomodulators may be adapted by perforating electrodes on a substrate, according to the embodiment.

[0030] The paper “Reversible Metal Electrodeposition Devices: An Emerging Approach to Effective Light Modulation and Thermal Management,” included by reference, also shows a substrate on which patterned electrodes are applied. The patterned electrodes may be advantageously configured according to the embodiment.

[0031] The substrate embodiment may be used in electrochromic devices (ECDs). Electrochromic devices (ECDs) continuously but reversibly control optical properties such as optical transmission, absorption, reflection, and / or emittance by applying voltage (electrochromism). This property allows electrochromic devices to be used for applications such as smart glass, electrochromic mirrors, and electrochromic display devices.

[0032] Electrochromic devices are described, for example, in the paper "Silver grid electrodes for faster switching ITO-free electrochromic devices" by Antonio California et al., which is included herein by reference. That paper describes the fabrication of electrochromic devices, in this case, ITO-free electrochromic devices.

[0033] Electrochromic devices use conductive electrodes applied to a substrate. The cited paper uses a silver grid made with silver ink as the conductive electrode. Electrochromic devices may contain electrochromic materials. The cited paper uses poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) polystyrene sulfonate (PEDOT:PSS). In an electrochromic device, at least one optical layer side electrode, such as a conductive electrode, is applied to the substrate. The optical layer side electrode is arranged in a pattern across the substrate. The cited paper discloses two different grid patterns, regular hive and regular ladder designs. See Table 1 and Figure 3 of the cited paper.

[0034] In the cited paper, electrodes may be applied to a substrate by screen printing polyethylene terephthalate (PET) onto the substrate. The electrodes are typically conductive materials, such as metals or metal oxides. In the cited paper, silver ink was used to screen print a grid onto the PET using a RokuPrint RP 2.2 instrument and a 180-wired mesh. The samples were dried in an oven at 130°C for 15 minutes. One or two layers of PEDOT:PSS SV3 were subsequently screen printed on top of these silver grids. Light passes through the electrodes, in this case, in a fixed pattern, and the electrodes, for example, the pattern may be perforated according to the embodiment.

[0035] For example, the metal grid used in the cited paper may be replaced by an optical layer side electrode applied to the substrate, and according to the embodiment, the optical layer side electrode is perforated.

[0036] Another example of an electrochromic device is given in U.S. Patent No. 5,161,048, titled “Electrochromic window with metal grid counter electrode and acidic polyelectrolyte,” which is incorporated herein by reference. For example, an electrochromic device may comprise a transparent electrochromic film and an ion-conducting layer disposed between pairs of electrodes. Metal grid electrodes are used for the electrodes. Figure 1 of the patent shows a metal grid according to the cited patent. To form a counter electrode, the metal grid is disposed adjacent to a second glass substrate.

[0037] For example, in an embodiment of an electrochromic device, the electrochromic device may comprise a transparent substrate, a conductive electrode member, a transparent electrochromic film in contact with the conductive electrode member, an ion-conducting polymer in contact with the electrochromic film, and a patterned conductive electrode in contact with the ion-conducting polymer. The patterned conductive electrode may vary according to the embodiment.

[0038] The substrates according to the embodiments may be advantageously applied in several other technologies. For example, the optical modulator may be a dielectrophoretic optical modulator, as shown, for example, in U.S. Patent Application No. 20050185104(A1), which is included herein by reference. Substrates like those in the embodiments may also be used in other electrowetting and OLED applications.

[0039] In OLEDs and electrowetting, electrodes are required on only one of several substrates. The substrate having the electrodes may vary depending on the embodiment.

[0040] Furthermore, other dynamic glass technologies may be used.

[0041] For example, the optical layer for a light modulator, such as in dynamic glazing, may use LCD (liquid crystal display) technology. For example, the optical layer may contain liquid crystal molecules that can be oriented to control the amount of light passing through the display. When an electric current is applied to the liquid crystal molecules, they change their alignment, modifying how light passes through the material. The optical layer having the LCD material may be placed between two layers of glass or plastic and connected to an electrical circuit. The amount of light passing through the glazing may be adjusted by controlling the current applied to the LCD material.

[0042] For optical modulators, for example, the optical layer in dynamic glazing may utilize suspended particle device (SPD) technology. The optical layer may contain particles suspended within a thin film or laminate. By applying an electric current to the SPD film, the particles orient themselves, modifying the amount of light passing through the material and enabling dynamic control of glazing. When the current is turned off, the suspended particles become randomized, allowing more light to pass through and creating a clear or transparent effect. When the current is turned on, the particles orient themselves, absorbing more light and creating a darker or colored effect.

[0043] In applications such as glazing optical modulators, both substrates are typically transparent. In other applications, such as televisions and e-readers, only one substrate may be transparent.

[0044] Figure 1b schematically shows an example of a substrate embodiment. The substrate is particularly useful for use in optical modulators of the type described herein. Multiple comb-shaped optical layer side electrodes are applied across the substrate. Figure 1b shows two comb-shaped optical layer side electrodes. The substrate also comprises at least one substrate side electrode and an energy conversion layer, which are not shown in Figure 1b but are shown in other figures herein.

[0045] An exemplary use of substrate motivation is in an electrophoretic optical modulator. Typically, an electrophoretic optical modulator comprises at least two substrates, each having at least two optical layer side electrodes; however, although not essential, an electrophoretic optical modulator may also comprise, for example, a single substrate having two electrodes and a counter substrate having one electrode. In either case, preferably, at least one of the substrates in the optical modulator follows the embodiment.

[0046] An embodiment of the optical modulator comprises a first substrate and a second substrate according to the embodiment. The first and second substrates are arranged so that their inner surfaces face each other. At least one optical layer side electrode is applied to the inside of the first substrate. The optical layer is placed between the first and second substrates. A controller is configured to apply a potential to at least one optical layer side electrode to cause modulation of the optical properties of the optical modulator. One or both of the first and second substrates are transparent and / or translucent.

[0047] Many different types of optical modulators exist that use at least one optical layer side electrode applied to a substrate. The optical layer and controller may be arranged to modulate optical properties using potential-dependent effects on the optical layer side electrode, examples including dielectrophoretic and electrophoretic effects. For example, optical modulation may include modulation of particles placed within the optical layer. The number of optical layer side electrodes may range from one on a single substrate to multiple optical layer side electrodes on one or both substrates.

[0048] The optical layer placed between the first substrate and the second substrate may, for example, contain particles suspended in a fluid. The controller may be configured to apply a potential to the electrodes on the optical layer side, causing the particles to move and thus modulating the optical properties of the optical modulator.

[0049] In the embodiment, the particles include charged particles or chargeable particles, and the controller is configured to apply a potential to the optical layer side electrodes to obtain an electromagnetic field that provides electrophoretic motion for the particles. In the embodiment, the electromagnetic field is located between at least two optical layer side electrodes that are located on the same substrate or on different substrates.

[0050] In the embodiment, the particles include dielectric particles, and the controller is configured to apply a potential to the optical layer side electrode to apply an electric field gradient to the particles, thereby enabling the particles to move under the action of dielectrophoretic force.

[0051] The controller may apply an electrical signal to one or more of the optical layer electrodes. Embodiments for controlling electrophoretic force may use a signal that includes a DC signal and / or an AC signal. Embodiments for controlling electrophoretic force may use a signal that includes a DC signal and / or an AC signal.

[0052] Figure 1b shows two optical layer side electrodes on the same surface. The two optical layer side electrodes are shown in Figure 1b with two different dashed line styles. For example, there may be three or more electrodes on the same side of the substrate to facilitate finer control of the voltage difference across the substrate. Optical layer side electrodes are applied to the same side of the substrate. Applying electrodes to the substrate may be done by lithography, for example, using a mask that represents the electrode pattern. Electrodes may also be applied by embedding them in the substrate.

[0053] The optical layer side electrodes are electrically connected and, for example, have the same potential everywhere. The optical layer side electrodes may include a drive bus and a main line. At a minimum, the main line meshes with the main lines of further optical layer side electrodes. Typically, the optical layer side electrodes extend in substantially straight lines across the substrate, while the main line is spiral.

[0054] In an embodiment, each of the two substrates of the optical modulator has two electrodes located on its inner surface. However, as stated, multiple electrodes are not required on one or both substrates. For example, an embodiment of the optical modulator comprises a first substrate and a second substrate. For example, the first substrate may have one optical layer side electrode, and the second substrate may not have an optical layer side electrode. For example, the first substrate may have two optical layer side electrodes, and the second substrate may have one optical layer side electrode. For example, the first substrate may have two optical layer side electrodes, and the second substrate may have two optical layer side electrodes. For example, the first substrate may have three or more optical layer side electrodes, and the second substrate may have two or more optical layer side electrodes.

[0055] However, optical modulators, each substrate having two optical layer side electrodes, are used as a motivating example. A substrate design featuring two optical layer side electrodes may be adapted to have a single optical layer side electrode, for example, by connecting the two electrodes or by removing one of them. Such adaptation of the substrate can make it suitable for use in different technologies.

[0056] Each of the multiple optical layer side electrodes is arranged in a pattern across the substrate. The multiple optical layer side electrodes are arranged alternately on the substrate relative to each other. Typically, each optical layer side electrode has multiple main lines extending across the substrate. The main lines of the optical layer side electrodes are alternating, for example, interlocking with each other. For example, in Figure 1b, the first optical layer side electrode has main lines 111-114, and the second optical layer side electrode has main lines 121-124. Each optical layer side electrode is driven by its drive bus. Figure 1b shows two drive buses: drive bus 110 and drive bus 120. The optical layer side electrodes also play a role in connecting the main lines together. For example, in Figure 1b, drive bus 110 drives and connects main lines 111-114; drive bus 120 drives and connects main lines 121-124. There can be more than four main lines than shown in this example. While the use of a main line is advantageous for reducing electrode length, it is not always necessary. A design using only one main line per optical layer electrode is not impossible, but having multiple main lines is advantageous.

[0057] Multiple main lines of the first and second electrodes are arranged alternately with respect to each other on the substrate.

[0058] In this example, there are no connections between the main lines of the electrodes other than via a common drive bus. In embodiments, the optical layer side electrodes include mesh electrodes, i.e., the optical layer side electrodes may have additional electrical connections that may be added between the electrode lines of the same optical layer side electrode. This increases the reliability of the electrodes. Such additional connections typically intersect the electrode lines of another optical layer side electrode, but this may be resolved by placing the additional electrical connections at a substrate level partially different from the intersecting electrode lines. For example, the entire optical layer side electrode may be placed at a different level from another optical layer side electrode. Thus, the additional connections may be placed without causing short circuits.

[0059] Motivational applications for substrates such as substrate 100 may be applied in homes, offices, greenhouses, cars, and similar devices, such as smart glazing, for example, in optical modulators. The level of transparency or reflectivity of smart glazing can be electrically matched. For example, in smart glazing, two substrates such as substrate 100 are stacked such that the surfaces on which two electrodes are applied face each other. A fluid containing particles is confined between the two substrates. Embodiments of smart glazing are discussed further below. In embodiments, electrodes, for example, two or more electrodes, are applied to one surface of each substrate. For example, to facilitate the stacking of three or more substrates, one, two, or more electrodes may be present on other surfaces of substrate 100.

[0060] The following embodiments illustrate examples of modulating transparency or reflectivity levels. The optical modulator may be adapted for other optical effects. For example, if desired, the embodiments may be modified for different levels of translucency instead of different levels of transparency. If desired, the type of particles used in the embodiments may be varied, for example, for particles that absorb or reflect at different wavelengths and how specular or diffuse the reflection is. For example, in the embodiments, the optical modulator can modulate different levels of reflection. The particles may also emit light. Stacking multiple optical layers further increases the possibilities.

[0061] Having two sets of alternating main lines is sufficient to provide electrically adaptable glazing; the two alternating sets allow the electric field in any part of the substrate to be controlled because the two opposing electrodes boundary that part from two opposing sides.

[0062] Interestingly, the pattern of the optical layer side electrodes extending across the substrate is created by multiple repeating building blocks. As shown in Figure 1b, the optical layer side electrodes on substrate 100 show four blocks: blocks 141, 142, 143, and 144, all of which are substantially identical. The number of building blocks may be greater than four. The building blocks repeat across the substrate in both directions, for example, a first direction 191, e.g., the x-direction shown horizontally in the figure, and a second direction 192, e.g., the y-direction shown vertically in the figure. The use of building blocks is advantageous because it enables manufacturing using a stepper machine, although the use of building blocks is not always necessary.

[0063] For example, Figure 1a schematically shows an example of an embodiment of building block 140. Building block 140 comprises a plurality of comb-shaped electrodes extending in at least two directions across the building block. Four electrodes: electrodes 131-134 are shown in Figure 1a. When the building block is repeated across the substrate in two directions, the electrodes within the building block will form optical layer side electrodes, for example, forming a plurality of main lines of optical layer side electrodes. Note that building blocks are typically connected in a substrate electrode design tool. Typically, a building block comprises five or more electrode lines. For example, within the scope of the embodiment, between eight and twelve main lines are used. The number of electrode lines can, however, be much greater. For example, a building block may have many short electrode lines near the edges that connect to the lines of other building blocks when the block is repeated. Taking such short derivatives into account, the number of lines can increase to, for example, 50. Obviously, using larger building blocks may also increase the number of electrode lines. In this embodiment, the number of electrode lines within the building block is between 8 and 50, or between 8 and 25, and so on.

[0064] The optical layer side electrodes, formed by repeating building blocks, are connected to the drive bus. Typically, electrode lines within a building block are connected to electrode lines in neighboring blocks by merging the corresponding electrode lines; however, this is not always necessary, and connection zones connecting the corresponding electrode lines can be inserted between repeating building blocks.

[0065] This step allows multiple main lines to be connected together, thus forming a single optical layer side electrode. Figure 1b shows two connection zones 119 and 129, where main lines belonging to the same optical layer side electrode are connected to drive bus 110 and drive bus 120, respectively.

[0066] The electrodes shown in Figure 1a are alternately dashed in the same dashed line style as in Figure 1b. In practice, in this example, it is true that certain electrodes of the building blocks in Figure 1a always end up either within the first optical layer side electrode or within the second electrode, for example, as indicated by the dashed line style in this case. This, however, is not always the case. Electrodes within a building block may end up as part of the first optical layer side electrode or as part of the second optical layer side electrode. This can change, for example, the repeating pattern of the building blocks as a result of the even or odd number of electrodes within the building blocks.

[0067] For example, a particular pattern of repeating building blocks may be used for an optical modulator having two optical layer side electrodes, in which alternating main lines may be assigned to the two optical layer side electrodes. However, the same pattern of repeating building blocks may be used for an optical modulator having three optical layer side electrodes, in which all adjacent sets of the three main lines may be assigned to the three optical layer side electrodes.

[0068] Furthermore, while the building blocks shown in Figure 1a are square, this is not necessarily required. For example, the building blocks may be rectangular. In embodiments, the building block shape(s) may form a so-called tessellation. For example, the building blocks may be triangular, hexagonal, or even a combination of planar tessellations.

[0069] As stated, Figures 1a and 1b are schematic. This is especially true for the depiction of electrodes. The electrodes shown in Figure 1a are straight; however, in embodiments, electrodes on building blocks are more intricate, for example, curved. By adapting the shape of the electrodes, undesirable diffraction effects can be altered.

[0070] In embodiments, the dimmable mirror comprises an optical modulator according to the embodiment. For example, the dimmable mirror comprises a transparent substrate, an optical layer, and a reflective substrate. One or both of the substrates are according to the embodiment. The dimmable mirror may be electrophoretic. Typically, each substrate has two electrodes, but this is not essential.

[0071] Figure 1c schematically shows an example of an embodiment of substrate 101. Substrate 101 is similar to substrate 100, except that the main lines formed from electrodes on the building blocks are connected to the drive bus. In Figure 1a, a connection zone is inserted between the repeating building blocks and the drive buses 110 and 120. In the connection zone, main lines belonging to the same optical layer side electrodes are connected to the same drive bus. In Figure 1c, the drive bus is directly adjacent to the building block. Part of the building block is modified to avoid the drive bus connecting to the main lines of different optical layer side electrodes.

[0072] For example, building block 141 may be a copy of building block 140, but electrode 134 is shortened so that the main line 122, of which line 134 is part, does not connect to bus 110. In Figure 1c, the building blocks are substantially the same except that a disconnection is introduced in some electrodes of the building block adjacent to the drive bus to avoid connecting the main line to the drive bus. All building blocks shown in Figure 1c are thus modified, but in the embodiment, the majority of building blocks, such as those not adjacent to drive buses 110, 120, are not modified.

[0073] Figure 1d schematically shows an example of an embodiment of the substrate 102. In this embodiment, each electrode within a building block is connected to the same opposing edge of the building block. This results in the main lines formed by the electrodes on the building block being connected to opposing edges of the substrate. In such a situation, having only two drive buses, each extending along opposing edges of the substrate, is sufficient to connect and drive the optical layer side electrodes.

[0074] However, electrodes within a building block do not need to be connected to opposite edges of the building block. Typically, all electrodes within a building block will be connected to two edges of the building block, but these two edges do not need to be opposite. The reason for this is that electrodes may be continued by the next building block. In such situations, most main lines will still be connected to the same two opposite edges, although this may not happen at the edges of the substrate because there are no further building blocks to carry the electrodes forward. To allow for more complex electrode designs with respect to building blocks, main lines may be connected to the drive bus from two edges, for example, two adjacent edges of the substrate at the same corner of the substrate.

[0075] Figure 1d shows a drive bus 110' extending along two sides of the substrate and a drive bus 120' extending along the other two sides of the substrate.

[0076] The advantage of this configuration is that the drive bus can be made in the same plane. This, however, is not mandatory. The drive bus can be connected from all three or four sides, if desired, for example, to further increase the design freedom for the building block. Various examples are shown herein.

[0077] It should be noted that optical layer side electrodes, such as the drive bus and / or main line, can overlap. This is possible, for example, by creating a portion of dielectric material between the electrodes. For example, such overlapping electrodes may be partially or completely located in different planes of the substrate.

[0078] For example, in an embodiment, the first optical layer side electrode may be deposed. Then, the dielectric is locally deposed, and finally, the second optical layer side electrode is deposed. The dielectric is positioned to cover at least the points where the first and second electrodes intersect. Vias may be used for a lower first drive electrode, for example, to connect to a lower first optical layer side electrode. Deposing of the optical layer side electrode may include deposing the drive bus.

[0079] Figure 1e schematically shows an example of an embodiment of substrate 602. In Figure 1e, the building block is copied multiple times. To obtain substrate 602, the building block is copied by repeated movement in the x and y directions. Each of the building blocks shown in Figure 1e can be obtained by the direct movement of any other building block.

[0080] A drawback of this configuration is that the drive buses of different optical layer side electrodes face each other. To avoid short circuits, a small space is left between the optical layer side electrodes, for example, a width equivalent to 50 micrometers. Although not shown in Figure 1e, the various parts of the moved drive bus need to be connected together, for example, by electrode lines.

[0081] For example, as indicated by arrow 640, a vertical groove is formed; that is, two parallel electrode lines are close to each other. Similar grooves exist in the horizontal direction. Such grooves have been found to adversely affect diffraction. While a design with low diffraction may still be better than a pattern using inferior building blocks, it is desirable to avoid these grooves.

[0082] Figure 1f schematically shows an example of an embodiment of substrate 603. In substrate 603, the building blocks are repeated across the substrate but are arranged to avoid grooves, as in Figure 1e. In this embodiment, the building blocks are moved and mirrored in two directions.

[0083] Building block 611 is mirrored in the y-direction to form building block 621. Building block 621 is located directly below building block 611. Building block 611 is mirrored in the x-direction to form building block 612. Building block 612 is located directly to the right of building block 611. Building block 611 is mirrored in both the x-direction and the y-direction to form building block 622. For example, the mirroring may have the edges of the building blocks as the mirroring axes.

[0084] By mirroring the building blocks, it is ensured that the drive buses of the same optical layer side electrodes are adjacent to each other on the substrate. Merging these drive buses avoids grooves and reduces diffraction.

[0085] In embodiments, at least the optical layer side electrodes on the substrate have mirror symmetry; in embodiments, the optical layer side electrodes and the drive bus have mirror symmetry. For example, the substrate is symmetrical with respect to the x-axis and / or y-axis. This is a significant advantage during manufacturing because it allows the upper and lower substrates to be equal. Eliminating the need to produce separate substrates for the upper and lower parts of the optical modulator also eliminates the need to monitor separate types of substrates. Furthermore, having symmetry in the substrate allows a broken upper substrate to be replaced by a lower substrate, and vice versa, because they are the same. A straight line along the axis of mirror symmetry, for example, the drive bus, is useful because the design can be mirrored around that axis. Using building blocks in mirrored or non-mirrored forms helps to create a mirror-symmetric design.

[0086] This is particularly advantageous when manufacturing using a photolithography step for patterning electrodes, because the same substrate patterning can be used for both substrates of the optical modulator, limiting production costs. The presence of straight busbars attached to building blocks or parts of each building block facilitates this effect. Having a unidirectional symmetrical design to use the same electrode pattern for all substrates is possible without straight busbars, for example, by local modifications of the electrode design at the edges of the symmetrical lines. In embodiments, the optical layer side electrode pattern has at least one symmetry in one direction, for example, by using tiling building with mirroring and / or rotation, enabling an electrode pattern design across the substrate.

[0087] Figures 2a-2f schematically show examples of substrates having comb-shaped electrodes. These may be embodied on a substrate having two electrodes, for example, by alternately connected electrodes. Figures 2a-2d may also be embodied on a substrate having multiple electrodes, for example, by connections in a sequence of three, four, or more electrodes.

[0088] Figures 2e and 2f show designs with two optical layer side electrodes on the substrate surface. Both designs can be modified to have only a single optical layer side electrode on the substrate surface, for example, by removing one of the two optical layer side electrodes. Such a modified design could, for example, be used in an optical modulator using a substrate with a single electrode.

[0089] The designs shown can be realized in a single plane without crossing electrodes. In particular, crossing electrodes are not required when these designs are connected to two drive buses. When three or more optical layer side electrodes are used, or when more complex electrode patterns are used, electrode crossings may be used, or in some cases, may be required. However, such crossings are possible, for example, where two electrode lines intersect a dielectric material that may be placed between the electrodes. For example, such an insulator may be deposited at the intersection site. For example, the first optical layer side electrode is in a first plane of the substrate, and the second optical layer side electrode is in a second plane of the substrate.

[0090] The two substrates according to the embodiment can be combined to form an optical modulator. The optical modulator is particularly suitable for glazing. An exemplary embodiment of the optical modulator is shown below.

[0091] Figure 3a schematically shows an embodiment of the optical modulator 10 that may be applied in smart glazing.

[0092] References are made to the patent application PCT / EP2020 / 052379, which is incorporated herein by reference; this application includes, for example, advantageous designs for optical modulators that can be further improved by including electrodes, buildable blocks, and / or substrates as described herein.

[0093] The optical modulator 10 can be electronically switched between a transparent state and a non-transparent state, and vice versa, or between a reflective state and a non-reflective state, and vice versa. The optical modulator 10 comprises a first substrate 11 and a second substrate 12 arranged opposite each other. At least two optical layer side electrodes are applied to the inside of the first substrate 11: electrodes 13a and 13b are shown. These at least two electrodes are collectively referred to as electrode 13. At least two electrodes are applied to the inside of the second substrate 12: electrodes 14a and 14b are shown. These at least two electrodes are collectively referred to as electrode 14. One or both substrates may also comprise substrate side electrodes and an energy conversion layer.

[0094] The fluid 15 is provided between the substrates. The fluid contains particles 30, such as nanoparticles and / or microparticles, which are electrically charged or can be charged. For example, particles may inherently have an electric charge on their surface. For example, particles may be surrounded by charged molecules.

[0095] The electrodes are positioned to drive the particles 30 to move toward or away from the electrodes in response to the applied electric field. The optical properties of the optical modulator, in particular its transparency or reflectivity, depend on the location of the particles 30 in the fluid. For example, connections may be provided for applying an electromagnetic field to the electrodes.

[0096] At least one electrode, but preferably both electrodes 13 and 14, are shown schematically in the figures, according to the embodiment.

[0097] In the embodiment, at least one of the electrode patterns on the first substrate and the electrode patterns on the second substrate has a calculated low pixelation noise metric that contributes to diffraction. Interestingly, the electrode patterns on the substrates may not individually meet the limits regarding their pixelation noise metrics, but their combination, i.e., their superposition, may. Since this is the pattern that will be visible when viewed through the optical modulator, a low pixelation noise metric in the superposition will also contribute to low diffraction. Appropriate limits for the patterns on the first and / or second substrates or for the superposition include: less than 6.05%, or less than 5%, or less than 4%.

[0098] In the example, substrates 11 and 12 may be optically transparent outside the electrodes, typically with transparency exceeding 95% at the relevant wavelengths, e.g., exceeding 99% transparency. Considering the electrodes, the transparency may be much lower, e.g., 70%. The term “optical” may, where applicable, relate to wavelengths visible to the human eye (approximately 380 nm–750 nm), and, where applicable, relate to a broader range of wavelengths including infrared (approximately 750 nm–1 μm) and ultraviolet (approximately 10 nm–380 nm) and their subselections. In exemplary embodiments of the optical modulator, the substrate material is selected from glass and polymer.

[0099] In another example, one substrate, such as the lower substrate 12, may be reflective or partially reflective, while the upper substrate 11 is transparent. The optical properties of the optical modulator, in particular its reflectivity, depend on the location of the particles 30 in the fluid. When the panel is open (vertically driven), the particles will be located approximately between the opposing electrodes of the two substrates, thereby allowing the incident light to pass through the transparent upper substrate and optical layer with relatively little obstruction and be reflected or partially reflected on the lower substrate.

[0100] The distance between the first substrate and the second substrate is typically less than 30 μm, for example, 15 μm. In an exemplary embodiment of the optical modulator, the distance between the first substrate and the second substrate is less than 500 μm, preferably less than 200 μm, preferably less than 100 μm, and more preferably less than 50 μm, for example, less than 30 μm.

[0101] In the example, the modulator may be formed of a flexible polymer, and the rest of the device may be formed of glass. The glass may be hard glass or flexible glass. If required, a protective layer may be provided on the substrate. If two or more colors are to be provided, two or more layers of flexible polymer may be provided. The polymer may be polyethylene naphthalate (PEN), polyethylene terephthalate (PET) (optionally having a SiN layer), polyethylene (PE), etc. In a further example, the device may be formed of at least one flexible polymer. Thus, the modulator may be attached to any surface by means of an adhesive, for example.

[0102] Particle 30 may be adapted to absorb light, thereby preventing certain wavelengths from passing through. Particle 30 may reflect light; for example, the reflection may be specular, diffuse, or somewhere in between. Particles may absorb some wavelengths and reflect others. Particles may emit light, either similarly or instead, using, for example, phosphorescence, fluorescence, or similar phenomena. Even fluids may emit light whose emittance is modulated by changing the location of particles.

[0103] In an exemplary embodiment of the optical modulator, the size of the nanoparticles ranges from 20 - 1000 nm, preferably 20 - 300 nm, and more preferably less than 200 nm. In an exemplary embodiment of the optical modulator, the nanoparticles / microparticles may include a coating on the pigment and may preferably include a core. In an exemplary embodiment of the optical modulator, the coating of the particles is made of a material selected from conductive and semiconductive materials.

[0104] In an exemplary embodiment of the optical modulator, the particles are adapted to absorb light having wavelengths of 10 nm - 1 mm, such as 400 - 800 nm, 700 nm - 1 μm, and 10 - 400 nm, and / or are adapted to absorb a portion of the light having a wavelength range within 10 nm - 1 mm (filter), and combinations thereof.

[0105] In an exemplary embodiment of the optical modulator, the particles are charged or chargeable. For example, the charge on the particles can be from 0.1e to 10e (5 * 10 -7 -0.1 C / m 2 ) per particle.

[0106] In an exemplary embodiment of the optical modulator, the fluid is present in an amount of 1 - 1000 g / m 2 , preferably 2 - 75 g / m [[ID=二十一]] 2 , more preferably 20 - 50 g / m 2 , for example 30 - 40 g / m 2 and the like. It is a great advantage that much less fluid and similar particles can be used according to this layout.

[0107] In an exemplary embodiment of the optical modulator, the particles are present in an amount of 0.01 - 70 g / m 2 , preferably 0.02 - 10 g / m 2 , for example 0.1 - 3 g / m 2 and the like.

[0108] In an exemplary embodiment of the optical modulator, the particles have colors selected from cyan, magenta, and yellow, and from black and white, and combinations thereof.

[0109] The optical modulator may also be configured to simply or primarily modulate non-visible light, such as UV or near-IR, in the range of approximately 10 nm–380 nm and approximately 750 nm–1 μm, respectively.

[0110] In an exemplary embodiment of the optical modulator, the fluid comprises one or more surfactants, emulsifiers, polar compounds, and compounds capable of forming hydrogen bonds.

[0111] The fluid 15 may be a nonpolar fluid having a dielectric constant less than 15. In an exemplary embodiment of the optical modulator, the fluid has a relative permittivity εr less than 100, preferably less than 10, for example less than 5. In an exemplary embodiment of the optical modulator, the fluid 15 has a dynamic viscosity greater than 10 mPa·s.

[0112] Electrodes 13a, 13b and electrodes 14a, 14b are in fluid contact with a fluid. The fluid may be in direct or indirect contact with the electrodes. For example, the fluid may be in contact with the electrodes through a porous layer, a second medium. In the embodiment, the electrodes cover about 1-30% of the substrate surface. In the embodiment, the electrodes have an electrical conductivity > 1 (at 20°C). * 10 7 This includes conductive materials with resistivity less than 100 nΩm (at 273 K; for comparison, typically used ITO has 105 nΩm), which is similar to S / m.

[0113] In embodiments of the optical modulator, the electrodes include copper, silver, gold, aluminum, graphene, titanium, indium, and combinations thereof, preferably copper. The electrodes may be microwires embedded in a polymer-based substrate; for example, they may be in the form of copper microwires.

[0114] A connection for applying an electromagnetic field to the electrodes is provided, where the electromagnetic field applied to the electrodes results in the movement of nanoparticles and microparticles from the first electrode to the second electrode and vice versa. For example, in an exemplary embodiment of the optical modulator, the current is between -100 and +100 μA, preferably -30 and +30 μA, and more preferably -25 and +25 μA. For example, a power supply may be electrically connected to at least two electrodes. The power supply may be adapted to provide waveform power. At least one of amplitude, frequency, and phase may be adaptable to provide different states within the optical modulator. For example, these aspects of power may be adapted by a controller.

[0115] The optical modulator 10 may have one or more segments, each segment being a single optically switchable entity whose size may vary. The substrate at least partially encloses the volume that may be a segment.

[0116] This device may include a drive circuit for changing the appearance of (individual) segments by applying an electromagnetic field. Therefore, similarly, the appearance of the optical modulator or one or more parts thereof may change. For example, the segments may be at least 1 mm 2 This design may have an area of ​​[a certain size]. This design allows for stacking to enable more colors; for example, in full-color applications, stacking two or three modulators may provide most or all of the colors, respectively.

[0117] Having one or more segments allows for localized control of the optical modulator; this is advantageous for some applications but not essential. In the case of smart glazing, the optical modulator may be used with or without segments. For example, when applied in smart glazing, transparency or reflectivity can be locally controlled, for instance, to block sun patches without reducing the overall transparency or reflectivity of the window. Segments can be relatively large, for example, having a diameter of at least 1 mm or at least 1 cm.

[0118] In an exemplary embodiment of the optical modulator, the substrates (11, 12) are aligned and / or the electrodes (13, 14) are aligned. For example, electrodes 13a, 13b and electrodes 14a, 14b may be aligned so that they face each other. In aligned substrates, electrodes on different substrates are behind each other when viewed in a direction perpendicular to the substrates. When the optical modulator is disassembled and the substrates are together with the electrodes facing upward, the electrode patterns are mirror images of each other.

[0119] Aligning substrates may increase the maximum transparency or reflectance of an optical modulator, while in some cases, it may be better not to align the two substrates or to not fully align them when selecting an optical modulator for more criteria outside the range of transparency or reflectance. Optical modulators can be stacked. For example, two stacked optical modulators may be made from three substrates, with the central substrate having electrodes on both of its surfaces. In embodiments of the optical modulator, optionally, at least one substrate 11, 12 of the first optical modulator is the same as the substrate 11, 12 of at least one second optical modulator. In the case of stacked modulators, alignment may increase the maximum transparency or reflectance, but may be detrimental to other considerations, such as diffraction.

[0120] Figure 3b schematically shows an example of an embodiment of the optical modulator 40. The optical modulator 40 is similar to the optical modulator 10, except that it comprises multiple optical layers; two optical layers are shown in the example. There may be three or more optical layers. Each optical layer is located between two substrates. The optical modulator 40 can be considered a laminate of two-substrate optical modulators, as shown in Figure 3a. As shown, the optical modulator 40 comprises three substrates: a first substrate 41, a second substrate 42, and a third substrate 43. There is an optical layer between substrates 41 and 42, and an optical layer between substrates 42 and 43. The optical layers may be similar to the optical layers of the optical modulator 10. The controller 46 is configured to control the current on the electrodes of the substrates. For example, in Figure 3b, the controller 46 may be electrically connected to at least 4 × 2 = 8 electrodes.

[0121] Interestingly, particles within multiple optical layers may differ, so that multiple layers can be used to control more optical properties of the optical modulator. For example, particles in different optical layers may absorb or reflect at different wavelengths, and may have different colors, for example. This can be used by the controller 46 to create different colors and / or different color intensities on the panel. For example, a 4-substrate panel may have three optical layers, each with different colored particles, e.g., cyan, yellow, and magenta. By controlling the transparency or reflectance of different colors, a broad color spectrum can be created.

[0122] The surface of a substrate facing another substrate may be supplied with two or more patterns, for example, as in the embodiment. For example, the outer substrates 41 and 43 may receive electrodes only on their inner surfaces, while the inner substrate, for example, substrate 42, may have electrodes on both sides.

[0123] Substrates 41 and 42 may both be considered embodiments of an optical modulator. Similarly, substrates 42 and 43 may both be considered embodiments of an optical modulator.

[0124] One or more of the substrates 41, 42, and 43 may be provided with an energy conversion layer and substrate-side electrodes. Therefore, the energy conversion layer may be combined with multiple optical layers. Multiple energy conversion layers, and even multiple types of multiple energy conversion layers, may be used. For example, different substrates may have different energy conversion layers, or one substrate may have multiple energy conversion layers.

[0125] Figure 3c schematically shows an example of an embodiment of a car 20 having smart glazing for a window 21. This is a particularly advantageous embodiment because the level of incident light can be changed frequently and rapidly while driving. Using smart glazing in a car has the advantage that the light level can be maintained at a constant level by adjusting the transparency of the car window. Furthermore, the reduced diffraction effect improves safety as it reduces driver distraction. The car 20 may include a controller configured to control the transparency or reflectivity of the window 21.

[0126] Smart glazing can be used in other glazing applications where the amount of incident light is variable, such as in buildings, offices, homes, greenhouses, and skylights. A skylight is a window placed in the ceiling to allow sunlight to enter a room.

[0127] An optical modulator may have two optical states, for example, a transparent state and an opaque state or a reflective state and an antireflective state. An optical modulator, for example, optical modulator 10 or optical modulator 40, - By creating an alternating current voltage on at least one of the first and second substrates, and applying an alternating current between at least a first electrode and a second electrode on the first substrate, and / or between a first electrode and a second electrode on the second substrate, the optical state is switched to a second optical state, for example, an opaque state or an anti-reflective state. - Switch to a first optical state, for example, a transparent state or a reflective state, by creating an alternating voltage between the first substrate and the second substrate, and by applying an alternating current between the first electrode on the first substrate and the first electrode on the second substrate, and / or between the second electrode on the first substrate and the second electrode on the second substrate. It may be configured as follows.

[0128] The electrode pattern on the first substrate is arranged, at least partially, in the same pattern as the second electrode on the second substrate. Typically, the electrodes face each other, but the patterns of the first and second electrodes may be shifted relative to each other.

[0129] A protective coating may be applied to at least a portion of the inner surface area of ​​at least one of the first and second substrates.

[0130] The drive signal applied to the optical layer side electrode typically has a varying voltage. For example, a power supply may operate at an AC frequency to switch between a transparent and opaque state. Such a signal may have a frequency between, for example, 1 and 1000 Hz. A balanced electrolytic current can be obtained by continuously switching the polarity of oppositely charged electrodes on the first and second substrates and / or between the first and second substrates.

[0131] Figures 4a-4b schematically show side views of an embodiment of an optical modulator in use. In these figures, only the optical layer side electrodes are shown. Substrate side electrodes (multiple) and energy conversion layers (multiple) are not shown in these figures.

[0132] When an electric field is applied to electrodes on a substrate, an electric force is generated in the particles. Using this effect, the particles can move around, so different transparency or reflectivity states can be induced within the optical modulator. The controller can control the electric field, for example, its amplitude, frequency, and phase. In embodiments, the controller is connected to at least four electrodes: two electrodes for each substrate. However, more electrodes may be used and connected to the controller; for example, three or more electrodes may be used for a substrate to better fine-tune grayscale and drive it into an opaque or non-reflective state. Multiple electrodes may also be used to support multiple segments on the substrate.

[0133] Figure 4a shows the optical modulator in a state where no electric field is applied. In Figure 4a, no electric force is yet applied to the particles 30 suspended in the fluid 15.

[0134] In the configuration shown in Figure 4a, the conductive electrode pattern on the upper substrate is perfectly or substantially aligned with the conductive electrode pattern on the lower substrate. The conductive electrode pattern may be deposited on a transparent or (partially) reflective glass substrate, or embedded in a plastic substrate or the like.

[0135] Alignment between the upper and lower electrode patterns contributes to a wider range of achievable levels of transparency or reflectivity. However, alignment is not essential, as similar effects can be obtained without it. A similar range of transparency or reflectivity can be obtained without alignment.

[0136] Note that in these examples, references to the upper and lower boards refer to the board that is higher or lower on the page. The same board may also be referred to as, for example, the front board and the rear board, because in glazing applications, the boards will be aligned vertically rather than horizontally.

[0137] Figure 4b shows an optical modulator, for example in instance P1, where a potential +V1 is applied to each microwire electrode on the upper substrate, while a negative voltage, for example -V1, is applied to each microwire electrode on the lower substrate. Therefore, in this case, the same positive potential is applied to all electrodes 13 and the same negative potential is applied to electrode 14. The potential difference causes negatively charged particles to flow near the electrodes on the upper substrate, where they substantially align with the upper electrodes. As a result, if both the upper and lower substrates are transparent, the transparency of the optical modulator 10 will increase. Similarly, for example, if the upper substrate is transparent and the lower substrate is reflective, and the solution contains positively charged particles that flow near the electrodes on the lower substrate, where they substantially align with the lower electrodes, the reflectivity of the optical modulator 10 will increase.

[0138] In the second instance P2, which is in the ON state, similar transparency or reflectivity can be achieved if the voltages of the upper and lower electrodes are inverted, in contrast to instance P1. In instance P2, the voltage of each electrode on the upper substrate is supplied with a negative potential -V1, while the voltage of the aligned electrodes on the lower substrate is supplied with a positive potential. This state is similar to the state shown in Figure 4b, but the upper and lower substrates are inverted. In this configuration, the transparency or reflectivity of the optical modulator 10 is also high.

[0139] Interestingly, transparency or reflectivity can be maintained while reducing corrosion damage to the electrodes by switching between, for example, the positive potential of the electrode on the upper substrate (and the negative potential on electrode 14), shown as electrode 13 in Figure 4b, and the positive potential of the electrode on the lower substrate, shown as electrode 14 in Figure 4b. This alternating electric field can be achieved by applying alternating potentials to the upper and lower electrodes.

[0140] Applying an AC waveform is optional but a useful measure to increase the lifespan of the optical modulator by reducing corrosion. Corrosion can form, for example, when using copper electrodes, because copper ions dissolve in the ionic fluid on one substrate and flow to the electrode on the opposing substrate, where the copper ions deposit. By applying the waveform, the direction of copper ion transport is frequently reversed, thus reducing corrosion damage. Between two instances P1 and P2, the corrosion current between the two substrates balances, or substantially balances, for example, more than 95%, for example, when a corrosion rate occurs on the electrode of the upper plate, there is a balanced deposition of copper on the lower electrode between instances P1 each time, and the reverse occurs in instance P2. Thus, particles continuously migrate or move between the upper and lower electrodes, the optical modulator or smart window is always on, while the dynamic electrolytic current between the upper and lower electrodes is constant, and therefore the net loss of electrode material on the upper and lower electrodes is zero or negligible.

[0141] Because the voltages on electrode 13 are equal, the energy conversion layer can create a potential difference between electrode 13 and the substrate-side electrode (not shown in Figure 4b). The same applies to the second lower substrate if the energy conversion layer is also applied to the second lower substrate.

[0142] Figure 4c shows how a reduced transparency or reflectivity state can be obtained. An AC voltage is applied to the same substrate. For example, in an embodiment, as shown in Figure 8c, a potential +V2 is applied to the first electrode, and the next immediately adjacent electrode has the opposite potential -V2, and so on. This can be achieved by applying a potential +V2 to electrode 13a and the opposite potential -V2 to electrode 13b. On the opposing substrate, a potential +V2 may be applied to electrode 14a and the opposite potential -V2 to electrode 14b. For example, the electrodes may be arranged so that the electrodes on the substrate are aligned; an electrode on the upper substrate has a counter electrode on the lower substrate, and vice versa. For example, to reduce transparency or reflectivity, the counter electrodes may receive the same potential, while the neighboring electrodes receive the opposite potential. An embodiment is shown in Figure 4c, where the four electrodes are indicated by reference numerals 13a, 13b, 14a, and 14b, and the rest of the electrodes follow in an alternating manner.

[0143] By using AC drive cycles between the upper and lower substrates, oblique and transverse electric fields are generated between the two substrates, thereby causing random diffusion of particles and creating a closed state of the optical modulator. As a result of this configuration, particles move obliquely and transversely between the upper and lower substrates, and the diffusion of particles into the visible aperture of the optical modulator contributes to the closed opaque state of the optical modulator.

[0144] For the transparent state shown in Figure 4b, the waveform can be applied to the electrodes such that, for example, the electrode shown in Figure 4b becomes negative when it has a positive potential, and vice versa. As in the case of Figure 4b, applying the waveform between electrodes 13a and 13b, and between electrodes 14a and 14b, for example, reduces corrosion damage to the electrodes.

[0145] The AC drive cycle can be implemented by using a comb-shaped line configuration that combines the upper and lower electrode configurations, as shown in the plan view in Figures 1a, 1b, 2a-2f, etc. .

[0146] The degree to which transparency or reflectance increases or decreases in Figures 4b and 4c depends on the voltage difference and frequency difference. By changing the voltage difference, the amount by which transparency or reflectance increases or decreases, respectively, can be controlled. For example, a curve representing light transmittance versus voltage may be determined, for example, by measurement. A corresponding voltage, such as an AC voltage, may be applied to obtain a specific level of light transmittance, for example, a specific level of transparency, for example, a specific grayscale level. A level between transparent and opaque may be obtained by interpolating the signal for a transparent state or an opaque state. Similarly, a curve representing light reflectance versus voltage may be determined, for example, by measurement. A corresponding voltage, such as an AC voltage, may be applied to obtain a specific level of reflectance. A level between reflective and non-reflective may be obtained by interpolating the signal for a reflective state or a non-reflective state.

[0147] Different electrode patterns may be used for optical modulators. Each electrode pattern may provide a certain range of grayscale, such as transparency or reflectivity, that the optical modulator can achieve. However, the specific range of grayscale for any particular electrode pattern may differ from that of another electrode pattern. In other words, different patterns may give an increase in transparency or reflectivity or an increase in opacity, but the precise response to the drive signal depends on many factors, including the specific pattern used. Variations in the optical properties of an optical modulator can have fine resolutions, for example, less than 1 mm. Note that pixilation of the optical modulator is not required to achieve different visible optical patterns in the optical modulator, such as a logo.

[0148] This effect can be used to embed a visible image into an optical modulator by locally modifying the electrode pattern on the substrate of the optical modulator. For example, different electrode patterns may locally have grayscales with a permanent grayscale offset from each other. For example, the maximum transparency or reflectivity may be changed by locally modifying the electrode pattern or its pitch.

[0149] The result is areas on a light modulator having different intensities of grayscale, e.g., different grayscales, or coloration. Areas may, however, have the same color point. In embodiments, they may switch together with the rest of the window, albeit at different speeds. For example, even if the same voltage is applied to electrodes in two different areas, they will cause different transparency states, e.g., different transmission levels, due to different electrode patterns. For example, the curve representing transmittance versus voltage may be shifted. For example, if voltage control is changed in the same way in both areas, the light transmittance in both areas may change, but by different amounts. Areas may be made less responsive to the drive signal by reducing the density of electrodes; in particular, areas may be made not to switch at all, for example, by not applying electrodes within the area.

[0150] For example, electrode materials may include copper, aluminum, gold, and indium tin oxide (ITO). ITO is transparent, while Cu / Al is reflective; therefore, different electrode materials may be used to obtain different appearances, regardless of the driving voltage. Similarly, different materials with different resistances will produce different electric fields. For example, ITO will have a smaller electric field even when driven by the same voltage.

[0151] An embodiment of the method for modulating light includes applying a potential to a plurality of optical layer side electrodes applied to two opposing substrates according to the embodiment, thereby generating an electromagnetic field between the plurality of optical layer side electrodes, and causing electrophoretic motion of particles toward or from one of the plurality of optical layer side electrodes, which results in modulation of light shining through the substrates, the two opposing substrates being the same as in the embodiment.

[0152] In Figure 4c, the voltages on electrode 13 are different. This can introduce complexity to the energy conversion layer. One solution is to include a selective connection system that isolates the optical layer electrode from the power generation system. Another solution is to use multiple substrate-side electrodes so that the different voltages on electrode 13 can also be applied to the substrate-side electrodes with a certain bias. The same applies to the second substrate if the energy conversion layer is also applied to the second substrate.

[0153] Figure 5 schematically shows the materials used in the embodiment of the optical modulator. For ease of understanding, Figures 6a–11 use hatching style to show the same or similar materials.

[0154] For example, a transparent substrate is shown using Style 211. The transparent substrate may include, for example, plastic or glass. The substrate typically contains a dielectric material.

[0155] Style 212 refers to electrodes. Electrodes are conductive. Electrodes may be transparent or opaque. Various embodiments of electrodes may be used. For example, electrodes may comprise large-area electrodes. Large-area electrodes cover substantially the entire area of ​​the optical modulator, e.g., at least 90%, or even 95%, or greater. Alternatively, electrodes may be finger-shaped, for example, formed into multiple electrode lines extending across a substrate. Multiple finger-shaped electrodes may be combined on the same substrate, in which case the electrode lines are typically alternating, which is commonly referred to as comb-shaped. Finger-shaped electrodes are typically patterned. Electrodes may also comprise both finger-shaped layers and large-area layers.

[0156] The comb-shaped electrodes may be at different levels on the substrate so that they interlock with each other when observed from above, for example, when projected onto the substrate. The comb-shaped electrodes may also be mesh electrodes. Mesh electrodes have the advantage that a break in connection somewhere within the electrode does not lead to a complete loss of connectivity for part of the electrode. Two mesh electrodes can be made to interlock with each other by placing them at different levels. Alternatively, two mesh electrodes may be placed on the same substrate and separated from each other by a dielectric material at the intersection point.

[0157] Style 213 represents an energy conversion layer. The most common example of an energy conversion layer is a photovoltaic cell. Examples of energy conversion layers that may be used in embodiments are described herein.

[0158] Style 214 shows a dielectric. To avoid the two electrodes touching each other, the dielectric may be inserted between the two electrodes.

[0159] Style 215 refers to a spacer. To maintain a constant distance between substrates within an optical modulator, a spacer may be positioned between two substrates. Spacers typically include dielectric materials, such as glass or plastic. Spacers are optional. If the substrates and / or their casings are sufficiently robust, spacers are not necessary.

[0160] Figure 6a schematically shows an example of an embodiment of the two-electrode optical modulator 321. Figure 6a shows a first substrate 307 according to the embodiment. The first transparent substrate 307 is typically transparent. An electrode system is arranged on the first transparent substrate 307. The electrode system comprises, in this order, starting from the first substrate 307: a substrate-side electrode 305, an energy conversion layer 309, and an optical layer-side electrode 303.

[0161] A second substrate 308 is positioned opposite the first substrate 307. In this embodiment, the optical layer side electrode 301 is applied to the second substrate. An optical layer 310 is positioned between the first substrate 307 and the second substrate 308.

[0162] The optical properties of the optical layer 310 may be modulated by applying a voltage difference across the optical layer, for example, by applying a voltage difference to the optical layer side electrodes 303 and 301. If multiple optical layer side electrodes are applied to either the first substrate or the second substrate, the voltage difference may be applied along the optical layer instead of across the optical layer. Depending on the type of optical layer used, various optical effects can be produced.

[0163] In this embodiment, the spacer 312 is placed between the first substrate and the second substrate. The spacer is optional. The following figures do not show the spacer, but one or more spacers may be used if required, for example, for structural integrity.

[0164] The dielectric material 311 may be used for various purposes. For example, Figure 6a shows a dielectric layer, such as a coating, placed on the optical side electrode 303. This layer avoids direct contact between the electrode and the optical layer. This is particularly beneficial when the optical layer is of a fluid type, for example, containing particles. Similarly, a dielectric layer is also placed on the optical side electrode 301. Such a coating to avoid fluid contact is not essential, and the optical modulator will still function in a fluid contact state, but the dielectric layer extends the lifespan of the optical modulator.

[0165] Therefore, on the first substrate, the energy conversion layer is arranged adjacently on both sides by electrodes, in this case, the substrate-side electrode 305 and the optical layer-side electrode 303. Furthermore, between the first and second substrates, the optical layer is similarly arranged adjacently on both sides by at least one electrode, here shown as the optical layer-side electrode 303 and the optical layer-side electrode 301. For example, the energy conversion layer may be arranged as an energy conversion stack or layer. Note that electrode 303 is used together, for example, for energy conversion from light to electricity and for optical modulation. The optical properties of the optical layer are modulated by modulating the electric field in the optical layer, which may use the optical layer-side electrodes 301 and 303. For example, the light passing through the optical modulator from one of the first substrates 307 and the second substrate 308 to the other may be changed. For example, the passing light may be dimmed to a degree that depends on the modulation of the optical layer. The embodiment shown in Figure 6a is a two-electrode optical modulator. This means that the optical layer has two electrodes that can be controlled, for example, by an optical modulator driving system. Electrodes 303, 305, and 301 may be extended to the edges of their respective substrates for connection. Instead of extending the electrodes themselves, wires may be placed within the optical modulator.

[0166] As described above, various optical layers are known that include two electrodes and may be controlled by electrodes. For example, the optical layer may include an electrochromic material, and its optical properties may be modulated by modulating the voltage across the optical layer containing the electrochromic material. For example, the optical layer may be a fluid containing particles. The position of the particles may be modulated by modulating the voltage difference across the optical layer. For example, the particles may move by electrophoretic or dielectrophoretic forces. In the former case, the particles are charged or can be charged. The particles and fluid may be so-called e-ink.

[0167] Other dynamic glass technologies are described herein. For example, the optical layer may comprise an LCD, a suspended particle device (SPD), or reversible metal electrodeposition.

[0168] In this embodiment, the substrate-side electrode 305 comprises a large-area electrode, the optical layer-side electrode 303 comprises a large-area electrode, and the energy conversion layer is arranged over a large area across the substrate. In this case, these electrodes and the energy conversion layer are preferably transparent. The large-area energy conversion layer 309 may be selectively transparent or reflective, or at least partially so, with respect to the wavelengths intended to be modulated by the optical layer 310, such as visible light, infrared light, UV light, etc.

[0169] The energy conversion layer 309 is configured to perform energy conversion between energy from outside the substrate and the voltage difference between the substrate-side electrode 305 and the optical layer-side electrode 303.

[0170] In the case of the energy conversion layer, various options are available. Interestingly, the electrodes of the optical layer are used as a voltage reference for the energy conversion layer.

[0171] For example, the energy conversion layer may include a photovoltaic stack configured to convert light incident on the substrate into a voltage difference across the substrate-side electrode 305 and the optical layer-side electrode 303. The photovoltaic stack may be a silicon-based photovoltaic stack.

[0172] For example, the energy conversion layer may include a thermoelectric stack configured to convert the temperature difference between two sides of the substrate into a voltage difference. For example, if an optical modulator is used in a window in a wall where a temperature difference exists between the two sides of the wall, the optical modulator may use the temperature gradient and convert it into power.

[0173] For example, the energy conversion layer may include a radio frequency energy scavenger module configured to convert ambient RF radiation into a voltage difference. For example, ambient RF radiation may include Wi-Fi signals, cell phone signals, and other wireless communication signals. Similarly, like photovoltaic stacks and thermoelectric stacks, the radio frequency energy scavenger may be positioned as a layer between the substrate-side electrode 305 and the optical layer-side electrode 303. For example, a rectenna, also known as a rectenna, may be used as a meshed rectenna. For example, the rectenna may be sandwiched between electrodes 303 and 305.

[0174] All of the above embodiments for the energy conversion layer convert an external energy form into a voltage difference between electrodes 303 and 305. However, other directions are also possible. For example, the energy conversion layer may include one or more LEDs configured to convert the voltage difference between electrodes 303 and 305 into another energy form, in this case, light. The LEDs may be micro-LEDs or micro-patterned OLEDs.

[0175] Having an energy conversion layer within an optical modulator is efficient because the optical side electrodes double as a voltage reference for the energy conversion layer. The generated energy may be used, for example, to charge a battery. The generated energy may also be used, for example, to power the optical modulator drive system from the battery. This has the advantage of reducing the energy requirements of the optical modulator. A further advantage of an energy conversion layer within an optical modulator is that the optical layer helps dissipate thermal energy, thus increasing the efficiency of the energy conversion layer. This is particularly useful when the energy conversion layer includes a photovoltaic stack. The effect is typical within the optical layer, but is even more pronounced when the optical layer contains fluid.

[0176] Using an optical layer as a heat sink for the energy conversion layer is particularly effective for photovoltaic stacks. In embodiments, the dielectric 311 on the first substrate may be a thermally conductive material. The dielectric 311 may be positioned on the optical layer side, as shown in Figure 6a. The dielectric 311 may also be positioned between the substrate 307 and the substrate-side electrode 305. For example, the dielectric 311 may surround the energy conversion layer. The thermally conductive dielectric 311 further reduces the temperature of the energy conversion layer. This is particularly beneficial in the case of a photovoltaic stack, resulting in an increase in the current generated by the system.

[0177] The dielectric layer 311 above the optical electrode 301 on the second substrate 308 may also include a thermally conductive transparent dielectric layer. This electrode may also function as a heat sink for the optical layer, thereby improving the efficiency of the optical layer and functioning as a heat sink for the energy conversion layer 309.

[0178] The thermal connection points may be positioned relative to the dielectric layers 311 on the first substrate 307 and / or the second substrate 308, allowing for further dissipation from the corresponding dielectric layers 311. For example, the thermal connection points may be relative to the frame surrounding the optical modulator.

[0179] For example, the dielectric layer may have a thickness in the micrometer range, for example, less than 10 μm, preferably less than 1 μm, and preferably less than 500 nm. With this configuration, the dielectric 311 is preferably transparent or reflective with respect to the wavelength intended to be modulated by the optical layer 310. If layer 311 is reflective on the energy conversion layer 309 side, preferably layer 311 attached to the substrate 308 is transparent, and vice versa.

[0180] Optionally, a layer of transparent, highly conductive material may be applied to the substrate. For example, the layer may be applied between the dielectric 311 and the optical layer side electrode 303. The layer may be applied at different locations through the substrate and the substrate side electrode, for example, between the substrate and the substrate side electrode. For example, the layer may be applied instead of the dielectric 311 and the optical layer side electrode 303. The layer may comprise, for example, one or more layers of synthetic diamond and aluminum nitride. Both materials are transparent and have excellent thermal conductivity. Preferably, the layer has a room-temperature thermal conductivity of at least 300 W / (mK), preferably at least 500 W / (mK).

[0181] The heat sink may be attached to the substrate-side electrode 305 of the optical modulator.

[0182] Optical modulators having an energy conversion layer may be used in various ways. In one approach, the energy conversion stack is used in parallel with driving the optical layer. In this case, the optical side electrodes 305 and 301 are driven as usual in the corresponding optical layer technique. This may cause the optical side electrode 305 to change the reference voltage for the energy conversion layer 309. To avoid this, the substrate side electrode 303 is biased to the same extent as the voltage on electrode 303 is changed. Thus, both the energy conversion layer and the optical layer can function as usual. Detailed embodiments of more complex four-electrode embodiments are described below with reference to Figure 11.

[0183] Another method using an optical modulator that avoids the bias application step is preferred and will be described with reference to Figure 10a, etc. This approach also has the advantage that separate electrical systems may be used for optical driving and power generation. For example, the optical modulator 321 may be connected to two different electrical systems to manage power generation and optical modulation. Selective connectors such as relays may be used to connect or disconnect the shared optical side electrodes on the first substrate, and the shared optical side electrodes are used to selectively connect or disconnect both the photovoltaic layer and the optical modulator layer to appropriate systems, for example, a power generation system when energy conversion is desired, for example, when light shines on the photovoltaic stack in use, or an optical modulator driving system that is incompatible with the energy conversion layer when an optical change is required. It will be found that this exception is relatively rare, as most optical layer changes are actually interchangeable.

[0184] Figure 6b schematically shows an example of an embodiment of a two-electrode optical modulator 322. Optical modulator 322 is a variation of optical modulator 321. Like optical modulator 321, the optical layer of this embodiment may be driven by two electrodes. Suitable optical layers that may be driven in a two-electrode setup include, for example, electrochromic, SPD, LCD, reversible metal electrodeposition, and some electrophoretic system. As with optical modulator 321, electrode 303 is positioned between the energy conversion layer and the optical layer. Electrode 303 functions as a voltage reference for the energy conversion layer 309 and as a driving electrode for the optical layer 310.

[0185] It should be noted that the substrate-side electrode 305 and the optical-side electrode 303 on the first substrate 307 each comprise large-area electrodes. However, the energy conversion layer 309 is arranged in multiple lines across the substrate. A transparent dielectric is placed between the multiple lines of the energy conversion layer, and the dielectric is transparent. Electrodes 303, 305, and 301 are also transparent and include, for example, ITO or FTO.

[0186] An advantage of arranging the energy conversion layer in a line rather than as a large-area structure is that opaque materials, such as opaque photovoltaic stacks, may be used for the energy conversion layer.

[0187] The same options for the energy conversion layer and optical layer available in the optical modulator 321 are also available in the optical modulator 322.

[0188] Figure 7a schematically shows an example of an embodiment of a two-electrode optical modulator 323. Optical modulator 323 is a variation of optical modulator 322. The optical layer within optical modulator 323 may be driven by two electrodes. The difference between optical modulator 322 and optical modulator 323 is the substrate-side electrode 305 and the optical layer-side electrode 303.1.

[0189] As in the optical modulator 322, the energy conversion layer is arranged in multiple lines across the substrate, and the dielectric is placed between the multiple lines of the energy conversion layer. However, instead of large-area electrodes, the electrodes on each side of the energy conversion layer are also finger-shaped and, for example, arranged in multiple lines. Electrodes 303 and 305 arranged in multiple lines are shown. Thus, the electrode system, including the substrate-side electrode 305, the energy conversion layer 309, and the optical layer-side electrode 303, is arranged in multiple lines across the substrate. In a pattern, for example, electrodes arranged in multiple lines are called patterned. The multiple lines do not necessarily have to be straight and may be curved and branched, for example, as in the example shown in Figures 2a-2f.

[0190] In this embodiment, the electrode on the other substrate, the optical layer side electrode 301, is a large-area electrode. The optical layer side electrode 301 is transparent, for example, containing ITO or FTO. Electrodes 303 and 305 are not necessarily transparent, but preferably at least one of the electrodes is transparent. In this embodiment, electrode 303 and / or electrode 305 are transparent, which improves the transparency of the window, and if the photovoltaic stack is used for the energy conversion layer 309, this also improves the performance of the energy conversion layer.

[0191] Multiple electrode lines within the substrate-side electrode, energy conversion layer, and / or optical layer-side electrode align when projected orthogonally onto the substrate. This is advantageous, but not always necessary. For example, the alignment may be partial, and the projections may partially overlap. For example, the energy conversion layer may extend beyond the boundary between the substrate-side electrode and / or optical layer-side electrode. In this embodiment, the optical layer side on the second substrate is not arranged in a linear fashion, but if it is, it may align with the lines within the optical layer-side electrode on the first substrate. Again, this is not essential, but it results in more efficient operation of the optical layer.

[0192] Figure 7b schematically shows an example of an embodiment of a two-electrode optical modulator 324. Optical modulator 324 is a variation of optical modulator 323. The optical layer within optical modulator 324 may be driven by two electrodes. The difference between optical modulator 323 and optical modulator 324 is the optical layer side electrode.

[0193] The optical layer side electrode comprises two layers: an electrode layer 303.1 arranged in multiple lines across the substrate, and a second layer comprising a large-area electrode 303.2. Layer 303.1 may be the same as the optical layer side electrode 303 in the optical modulator 323.

[0194] For example, the optical layer side electrode layer 303.2 may comprise a transparent large-area electrode. The optical layer side electrode layer 303.1 may be an opaque electrode. Using a combination of two layers: an opaque patterned electrode and a large-area transparent electrode improves the performance of the energy conversion layer, especially in the case of a photovoltaic stack. The photovoltaic stack may be opaque because it is patterned. In embodiments, the optical layer side electrode layer 303.1 may be reflective and typically metallic in order to further improve the efficiency of the photovoltaic stack. The patterned reflective electrode layer 303.1 may be aligned with the energy conversion layer.

[0195] Figure 7c schematically shows an example of an embodiment of the two-electrode optical modulator 325. The optical modulator 325 is a variation of the optical modulator 324. The optical layer in the optical modulator 325 may be driven by two electrodes. The difference between the optical modulator 325 and the optical modulator 324 is the optical layer side electrode on the second substrate 308.

[0196] The optical layer side electrode comprises two layers: an electrode layer 303.1 arranged in multiple lines across the substrate, and a second layer comprising a large-area electrode 301.2. For example, the patterned electrode layer 301.1 may be opaque, typically metallic, and the large-area electrode 301.2 may be transparent. This arrangement configuration enables effective driving of the optical layer, particularly for electrochromic optical layers, by increasing the electron distribution for the electrochromic effect resulting in the “iris effect” described in US2021 / 0149265A1, which is incorporated herein by reference. This is of particular interest for large devices.

[0197] The substrate-side electrode 305 may be a patterned opaque electrode, typically a metal, or it may be a patterned ITO or FTO. The energy conversion layer may also be patterned.

[0198] The lines within the electrode layer 301.1 do not need to be aligned with the lines within the optical layer 303.1.

[0199] Figure 7d schematically shows an example of an embodiment of a two-electrode optical modulator 326. Optical modulator 326 uses the second substrate of optical modulator 325. The first substrate is similar to that of optical modulators 322 and 323, but the substrate-side electrodes 326 have transparent large-area electrodes. The energy conversion layer 309 and the optical layer-side electrodes 303 are arranged in a line. Typically, these lines are aligned, or at least partially aligned. Figure 7e schematically shows an example of an embodiment of a two-electrode optical modulator 327. Optical modulator 327 is similar to optical modulator 326, but in this case, the optical layer-side electrodes are arranged in two layers, as in the case of optical modulators 324 and 325.

[0200] The first substrate in Figure 7d is made by the following method - Provide a transparent substrate (307), - Applying the substrate-side conductive layer to the substrate, - Applying a photovoltaic stack layer to a substrate, - Applying the optical layer side layer conductive layer to the substrate, - A resist layer is patterned on the optical layer side layer, and the resist layer has a pattern of at least one electrode system. - Transferring a resist pattern onto the optical layer side layer and exposing the substrate area where the electrode system will be formed. - Removing the exposed areas of the conductive layer. - Applying a dielectric coating to a substrate It can be manufactured in [location / location].

[0201] Other substrates shown herein can be formed by adding further elements to this method. For example, patterning a resist layer may be introduced during the formation of other electrodes. Different patterns may provide multiple electrodes.

[0202] Figure 7e schematically shows an example of an embodiment of the two-electrode optical modulator 327. The optical modulator 327 is similar to the optical modulator 326, but in this case, the optical layer side electrodes are arranged in two layers, as in the cases of optical modulators 324 and 325.

[0203] Figure 7f schematically shows an example of an embodiment of a two-electrode optical modulator 328. In the optical modulator 328, the substrate-side electrodes 305 are arranged in multiple lines, similar to the case of the energy conversion layer 309. The optical layer-side electrodes on the first substrate consist of two layers, similar to, for example, the cases of optical modulators 324, 325, and 327. The optical layer-side electrodes on the second substrate consist of only one layer in this example, but are finger-shaped, for example, arranged in multiple lines.

[0204] Therefore, in this embodiment, the optical layer may be driven by one opaque patterned electrode (301) and one transparent electrode (303.2). Electrode 301 is a patterned electrode. Electrode 305 is patterned and transparent, for example, ITO or FTO. Electrode 303 is a combination of a transparent electrode for the optical modulator, for example, ITO, and a patterned electrode for improving the performance of the energy conversion layer, including, for example, a reflective metal.

[0205] Figure 7g schematically shows an example of an embodiment of a two-electrode optical modulator 329. In the optical modulator 329, the energy conversion layer, for example, the photovoltaic stack, is arranged over a large area across the substrate. Using a large-area energy conversion layer increases the efficiency of the energy conversion layer. The energy conversion layer is transparent.

[0206] A single substrate-side electrode 305 is arranged in multiple lines across the substrate. The electrode 305 may be made of metal. A single optical layer-side electrode 303 is arranged in multiple lines across the substrate. A finger-shaped optical layer-side electrode 301 is applied to a second substrate. All electrodes 303, 305, and 301 may be opaque, for example, made of metal. However, in this embodiment, the electrode 305 is transparent, for example, made of patterned ITO or FTO.

[0207] Figures 7a–7g illustrate several variations of two-electrode optical modulators that utilize different configurations of electrodes, energy conversion layers, and optical layers to achieve improved performance in various applications. These configurations enable, for example, driving of the optical layer and improved energy conversion for photovoltaic stacks. The embodiments offer flexibility in the selection of transparent or opaque electrodes, patterned or large-area electrodes, and alignment between the energy conversion layer and electrodes, allowing for optimization of the optical modulator's performance according to specific requirements.

[0208] Figure 8a schematically shows an example of an embodiment of a three-electrode optical modulator 330. The optical modulator 330 is similar to the two-electrode optical modulator 328 in Figure 7f, except that two interlocking optical layer side electrodes 301 and 302 are applied to a second substrate. Thus, there are three electrodes which may be used to drive various electric fields in the optical layer. The large-area electrode layer 303.2 is transparent. The patterned electrodes 301, 302 may be opaque, for example, metallic. Preferably, electrode 305 is transparent, for example, patterned ITO or FTO.

[0209] This arrangement configuration is particularly suitable for e-ink type optical layers, such as electrophoresis or dielectrophoresis systems, and preferably for electrophoresis systems.

[0210] For example, electrodes 301 and 302 may be connected to an optical modulator drive system. Electrode 303 may be selectively connected to a power generation system, or to an optical modulator drive system, or to both. Electrode 305 is connected to a power generation system. Electrode 303 is shared between the energy conversion layer and the optical layer.

[0211] The optical modulator 729 may also be modified into a three-electrode optical modulator by similarly replacing the single electrode 301 on the second substrate with two comb-shaped electrodes.

[0212] Further control over the optical layer can be achieved by increasing the number of electrodes, for example, to three or more optical layer electrodes. This can be done on the second substrate, the first substrate, or both. For example, 1-3, 2-3, and 3-3 electrode designs are possible for the number of optical layer electrodes on the first and second substrates, respectively.

[0213] Figure 9a schematically shows an example of an embodiment of a four-electrode optical modulator 331. Optical modulator 331 is similar to optical modulator 329 shown in Figure 7g. The first substrate of optical modulator 331 has a single finger-shaped substrate-side electrode 305 and two optical layer-side electrodes: electrodes 303 and 304. Electrodes 303 and 304 are interlocked with each other. The second substrate has two optical layer-side electrodes: electrodes 301 and 302. Electrodes 301 and 302 are also interlocked with each other. This arrangement is particularly suitable for e-ink type optical layers, such as electrophoretic or dielectrophoretic systems, preferably electrophoretic systems.

[0214] Electrodes 301, 302, 303, and 304 may be patterned and opaque. For example, these electrodes may be made of metal. Electrode 305 may be transparent, for example, patterned ITO or FTO. The energy conversion layer may be of a large-area type and transparent, and the energy conversion layer may be a photovoltaic stack.

[0215] For example, electrodes 301 and 302 may be connected to an optical modulator drive system. Electrodes 303 and 304 may be selectively connected to a power generation system, or to an optical modulator drive system, or both. Electrode 305 is connected to a power generation system. Electrode 303 is shared between the energy conversion layer and the optical layer.

[0216] Figure 9b schematically shows an example of an embodiment of the four-electrode optical modulator 332. The optical modulator 332 is similar to the optical modulator 323 shown in Figure 7a, except for the electrodes.

[0217] The optical modulator 332 has two interlocking substrate-side electrodes: electrodes 305 and 306. The optical modulator 332 also has two interlocking optical layer-side electrodes: electrodes 303 and 304. The energy conversion layer is arranged in multiple lines across the substrate, and the multiple lines are at least partially aligned with the substrate-side electrodes and the optical layer-side electrodes. The lines are separated from each other by a dielectric. The second substrate has two interlocking optical layer-side electrodes: electrodes 301 and 302. Preferred electrodes 305, 306, 307, and 308 are transparent, such as ITO, in order to capture more light and generate more electricity.

[0218] The optical modulator 332 may be used with a selective connection system that selectively connects or disconnects the shared optical layer side electrodes 303 and 304 to the power generation system, to the optical modulator drive system, or both. The substrate layer side electrodes 305 and 306 may be connected to the power generation system.

[0219] One way to use multiple substrate-side electrodes is to support multiple types of energy conversion layers. For example, a first type of energy layer may be present between electrodes 305 and 301, while a second type of energy layer may be present between electrodes 306 and 302. Electrodes 305 and 306 may be connected to separate power generation systems. Each connection to the power generation system may have a blocking diode. Thus, in this example, one or more different types of energy conversion layers are combined with one optical layer. More optical layers may be added, for example, by adding further substrates. The additional energy conversion layers may be added to the upper substrate, the lower substrate, or any further substrate.

[0220] For example, while driving and closing in a horizontal field, electrodes 303 - 304 are disconnected from the system's photovoltaic stack by a relay, and on the other side, the relay connecting 303 - 304 to the modulator system is on. Diodes are arranged at electrodes 305 and 306 to prevent flow between electrodes with different polarities. When additional substrate - side electrodes 314 and 315 are similarly connected to the photovoltaic stack system, it is possible to obtain a symmetric photovoltaic stack on both sides.

[0221] Interestingly, the modulator 332 may be used without a selective connection system. For example, the substrate - side electrodes 305 and 306 may be biased such that the voltage difference across the energy - conversion layer and the voltage difference across the optical layer are correct.

[0222] FIG. 9c schematically shows an example of an embodiment of a four - electrode modulator 333. The modulator 333 is similar to the modulator 332. In this example, the energy - conversion layer is arranged in a plurality of linear forms separated by dielectrics, and the plurality of lines extend beyond the boundaries of the electrodes. This will increase the efficiency of the energy - conversion layer. If the energy - conversion layer is transparent or more transparent than the electrodes, this will not significantly reduce the transparency of the panel. Extending the energy - conversion layer lines beyond the electrode boundaries may be applied in other modulator designs using energy - conversion layer lines.

[0223] In an embodiment of a transparent substrate for use in a modulator, the electrode system comprises one or more stacks of pairs of substrate - side electrodes and energy - conversion layers, followed by optical - layer - side electrodes. In an embodiment, the plurality of energy - conversion layers are of different types. For example, FIG. 9d schematically shows an example of an embodiment of a four - electrode modulator 334. The modulator is similar to that shown in FIG. 9c, except that two energy - conversion layers are used. Layers 309a and 309b are shown. The layers are stacked vertically. The plurality of energy - conversion layers may also be applied to other modulator substrates.

[0224] For example, there may be two different types of conversion layers, such as type A and type B, operating at different wavelengths within the optical spectrum. For example, each may be a photovoltaic stack, but one photovoltaic stack may operate in the visible spectrum of light, while the other photovoltaic stack may operate in UV or infrared light. This stack will provide an increase in the amount of energy extracted / converted into useful electrical energy.

[0225] The increased complexity of the overall structure is a drawback, but the additional energy obtained is an advantage. In an embodiment, a modulator with a stacked energy conversion layer does not have a connection to the grid. For example, this eliminates the need to add wiring to the window to supply incremental electrical energy. Since additional wiring represents additional installation costs, this is a significant advantage.

[0226] FIG. 9e schematically shows an example of an embodiment of a four-electrode modulator 335. The modulator 335 is similar to the modulator 332, except that a second substrate is also implemented depending on the embodiment. In this case, the electrode design for the second substrate is the same as that for the first substrate.

[0227] For example, the second substrate has two meshing substrate-side electrodes: electrodes 314 and 315, and two meshing optical-layer-side electrodes: electrodes 301 and 302. The energy conversion layers are arranged in a plurality of linear patterns therebetween across the substrate, and the plurality of lines are at least partially aligned with the substrate-side electrodes and the optical-layer-side electrodes. The lines are separated from each other by a dielectric.

[0228] For example, in the embodiment shown, the electrodes 301, 302, 303, 304 may be patterned opaque electrodes, typically metal. The electrodes 305, 306, 314, 315 may be patterned ITO. The energy conversion layer may be opaque and patterned. The energy conversion layer may be a photovoltaic stack.

[0229] However, any design for the first substrate may also be applied to the second substrate. To drive the panel, a selective connection system may be applied to joint electrodes 301 and 302, or electrodes 314 and 315 may be biased.

[0230] In this example, two energy conversion stacks are combined with a single optical modulator. This is quite advantageous when the energy conversion stacks are made of solid material and the optical layer is liquid, for example, an e-ink based optical layer. The two energy conversion stacks may be the same or different types. For example, it could be a combination of a micro-LED stack combined with a photovoltaic stack and an electrophoretic optical modulator stack. In the case of a further micro-LED stack, the electrodes of the micro-LED stack are arranged in rows and columns to acquire addressable pictures and generate images. Further local capacitors may be integrated for the display, for example in an active matrix configuration, to improve the performance and stability of the display.

[0231] When two energy conversion stacks are combined with an optical modulator, the two energy conversion stacks will be connected to two separate systems, or to a single system if they are of the same type or compatible.

[0232] Figure 10a schematically shows an example of an embodiment of the two-electrode optical modulator system 500.

[0233] Figure 10 shows, for example, an optical modulator 500 according to any embodiment shown herein. The optical modulator 500 comprises a substrate-side electrode 505, an optical layer-side electrode 503, and an optical layer-side electrode 501. The optical modulator 500 may also include an energy conversion layer between electrodes 505 and 503, and an optical layer between electrodes 503 and 501 (neither of which are shown separately in Figure 10a). Electrodes 501, 503, and 505 may each be a single electrode or a plurality of interlocking electrodes. Electrode 503 is used by the energy conversion layer and the optical layer. A power generation system 410 may be connected to the substrate-side electrode 505. An optical modulator drive system 420 may be connected to the optical layer-side electrode 501. A joint electrode 303 is connected to a selective connection system 400.

[0234] In some embodiments, the selective connection system 400 may be configured to connect the electrode 503 to both the power generation system and the optical modulator drive system, or to the optical modulator drive system only. The latter may be used when the optical modulator drive system is incompatible with the power generation system and it is necessary to place a voltage on the electrode 503, particularly a lateral electric field within the optical modulator.

[0235] In one embodiment, the selective connection system may be configured to connect the electrode 503 only to the power generation system.

[0236] In the configuration shown in Figure 10a, it is assumed that only one energy conversion layer exists. Another energy conversion layer may exist between electrode 501 and the further substrate-side electrode, in which case electrode 501 is also connected to the selective connection system. The further substrate-side electrode may be connected to the power generation system.

[0237] The power generation system 410 can charge the battery. For example, the power generation system 410 may include a battery charger configured to regulate the voltage to provide the battery with the correct charging voltage. The charger may further limit the current to the battery to prevent overcharging or overheating, which could damage the battery. To prevent the energy conversion layer from drawing power from the battery, the charger may have an internal diode to prevent reverse current.

[0238] The battery is optional. The power generation system may discharge electricity back into the power grid.

[0239] The power generation system may draw power directly from the energy conversion layer to the device, in particular, the optical modulator drive system. For example, the power generation system may include a voltage regulator to ensure a stable and regulated voltage output. For example, the voltage regulator may be a linear voltage regulator or a switching voltage regulator. An optional blocking diode may be added to prevent the discharge of power back to the energy conversion layer, e.g., the solar panel, during low-light conditions or at night. The diode may be added between the energy conversion layer and the voltage regulator. The optical modulator drive system may similarly or alternatively draw power from a battery charged by the power generation system. The optical modulator drive system may similarly or alternatively draw power from the grid.

[0240] The energy conversion layer may be a photovoltaic stack, for example, a silicon-based stack. The optical modulator driving system may be a conventional driving system suitable for the selected optical layer. For example, it may be an electrophoretic driving system.

[0241] Combining an energy conversion layer, particularly a photovoltaic stack, with an optical modulator is efficient because the electrodes required for the optical modulator can also be used for the energy conversion layer. Patterned energy conversion layers, such as photovoltaic stacks, can be used to enable standard photovoltaic technologies, which is efficient. The optical modulator may be connected to a two-electrode system: one for power generation and one for driving the optical modulator.

[0242] Figure 10b schematically illustrates an example of an embodiment of a two-electrode optical modulator system, in this case based on the optical modulator 321 shown in Figure 6a. Figure 10b shows an embodiment of a two-electrode optical modulator having a selective connection for separately managing energy conversion and optical modulation. A power generation system 410 and an optical modulator drive system 420 are also shown. A blocking diode 413 is inserted to prevent discharge from the power generation system 410 to the optical modulator 321.

[0243] The selective connection system may include a set of switches or relays that can be controlled to connect or disconnect the shared optical layer side electrode 303 to different electrical systems, depending on the desired operation. In one configuration, the shared electrode 303 is connected to a power generation system when energy conversion is the primary objective, for example, when sunlight shines on a photovoltaic stack integrated into the energy conversion layer 309. In another configuration, the shared electrode 303 is connected to an optical modulator drive system when optical changes that do not conform to the energy conversion layer are required.

[0244] In most cases, the optical layer changes, and energy conversion can operate simultaneously and without interference, eliminating the need for a selective connection system. Therefore, the shared electrode 303 is preferably connected to both electrical systems.

[0245] Nevertheless, selective connection systems can be useful, for example, to drive the optical layer at a voltage higher than desired for the energy conversion layer.

[0246] The optional selective connection system includes selective connection parts: 432 and 433.

[0247] Although it is not a power generation system, to connect to an optical modulator driving system, open connection part 432 and close connection part 433. This mode may be used to drive the optical layer more strongly.

[0248] To connect to both the optical modulator driving system and the power generation system, close connection parts 432 and 433. The latter is the normal situation. For further isolation, additional selective connections, such as connection 431 shown in Figure 10d, can also be added.

[0249] Figure 10c schematically shows an example of an embodiment of a three - electrode optical modulator system based on the optical modulator 330 shown in Figure 8a in this case. Figure 10c shows an embodiment of a three - electrode optical modulator with selective connection parts for separately managing energy conversion and optical modulation. A three - electrode driving system 421 is used in this embodiment.

[0250] This design is similar to the design shown in Figure 10b, except that the optical modulator driving system 421 receives additional connection parts to the electrodes on the second substrate. This design may be used for e - ink optical modulators, for example, electrophoretic and / or dielectrophoretic optical modulators.

[0251] The fluid in the optical layer helps the heat dissipation from the energy conversion layer, and thus, especially for a photovoltaic stack, improves its performance.

[0252] Interestingly, the e - ink may contain luminescent or fluorescent pigments to promote power generation by the photovoltaic stack.

[0253] The optical modulator driving system may apply an appropriate potential, DC or AC, depending on the selected optical modulator technology. It can operate the optical modulator from a dark state to a bright state and from a bright state to a dark state.

[0254] As shown in Figure 10b, the optical modulator in Figure 10c can operate without selective connectors. An optical selective connection system having two selective connectors 432 and 433 is shown.

[0255] In Figures 10b and 10c, the connection system is optional. Fixed connections may be provided from the optical layer side electrode 303 to both the power generation system and the optical modulator driving system. Having a connection system allows for the deactivation of either the power generation system or the optical modulator system as needed.

[0256] Figure 10d schematically shows an example of an embodiment of a four-electrode optical modulator system. This example uses the optical modulator 331 shown in Figure 9a. The four-electrode optical modulator drive system 422 is used in this embodiment.

[0257] The substrate-side electrode 305 is connected to the power generation system 410, but not to the drive system 422. In this example, only one substrate-side electrode is present.

[0258] Two comb-shaped optical layer side electrodes, electrodes 303 and 304, are used on the first substrate. Electrodes 303 and 304 are connected to the power generation system 410 as voltage references through selective connectors 432 and 434, respectively. The other ends of selective connectors 432 and 434 are connected to the power generation system 410 through selective connector 431.

[0259] Electrodes 303 and 304 are connected to the optical modulator drive system 422 through selective connectors 433 and 435, respectively.

[0260] Two comb-shaped optical layer side electrodes, electrodes 301 and 302, are used on the second substrate. They are also connected to the optical modulator driving system 422.

[0261] Selective connections can be implemented using, for example, mechanical relays, monostable relays, or transistor switches.

[0262] Various operating modes are supported by the optical modulator system shown in Figure 10d.

[0263] Horizontal drive Horizontal driving is a mode in which a lateral electric field is generated along the substrate. The optical modulator 422 may apply an AC voltage to the comb-shaped electrodes to move particles in the optical layer parallel to the substrate, thus reducing transparency. Selective connectors 432, 434, and 431 are open, and selective connectors 433 and 435 are closed. The power generation system 410 does not operate during horizontal driving. The drive electrodes 304 and 305 are disconnected from ground during horizontal driving.

[0264] Vertical drive Vertical drive is a mode in which particles align perpendicular to the substrate. Opposite electrodes on opposing substrates receive different voltages. Selective connectors 431, 432, and 434 are closed. Selective connectors 433 and 435 are opened. This connects electrodes 304 and 303 to ground. The optical modulator drive system controls the voltages on electrodes 301 and 302 to vertically align the particles in the optical layer. The power generation system 410 is powered by the voltage difference generated by the energy conversion layer.

[0265] Maintain grayscale To maintain a specific grayscale, the same connection configuration as in the case of vertical drive may be used. The optical modulator drive system 422 applies a 0 voltage to 301 and 302 most of the time, but electrodes 301 and 302 may be driven for a short time if the grayscale degrades due to particle dispersion. In this situation, the power generation system may be active.

[0266] In all three modes, the drive may use either a DC signal or an AC signal. Preferably, an AC signal is used.

[0267] The selective connection system 400, for example, the selective connection units 431, 432, and 433 shown in Figures 10a-10d, may be controlled by a controller, for example, controller 16. The controller may be connected to the optical modulator drive system.

[0268] Figure 11a schematically shows an example of an embodiment of the power generation system.

[0269] Figure 11b schematically shows an example of an embodiment of the power generation system.

[0270] Two exemplary uses of the energy conversion layer 510 and the power generation system 410 are shown in Figures 11a and 11b. The power generation system 410 takes energy from the energy conversion layer 510, for example, a photovoltaic stack, and converts it into usable energy.

[0271] Figure 11a shows the charger 411 and the battery 412. The charger 411 is configured to charge the battery 412. The excess energy can be transmitted to the grid 520, for example, a 230V AC grid. A voltage converter 415 is placed between the battery 412 and the optical modulator drive system 420.

[0272] The charger 411 may be part of system 41. System 510 may include a power grid converter to send solar power back to the grid 520. The battery 412 and / or voltage converter 421 may be located in system 410, in system 420, or neither. The voltage converter allows for variation of the input level voltage. System 410 may include a DC converter for external equipment such as system 420 and a DC / AC converter to supply energy back to the power grid.

[0273] Figure 11b is similar except that a battery is not used. System 410 is positioned to convert energy from layer 510 and send it to grid 520. The optical modulator is powered, for example, by grid power using wall plug 414.

[0274] These embodiments demonstrate the flexibility and adaptability of optical modulator systems, allowing energy conversion and optical modulation to occur simultaneously or independently, as needed. Different configurations and selective connections offer opportunities for various applications and uses. Embodiments described for two-electrode, three-electrode, and four-electrode optical modulator systems demonstrate a range of possibilities for managing energy conversion and optical modulation. These systems can be used in energy-generating windows, smart glass, displays, and other technologies where energy conversion and optical properties need to be managed effectively and efficiently.

[0275] Figure 12 schematically illustrates an example of a control method for a four-electrode optical modulator system. The optical modulator system shown in Figure 12 does not use a selective connection system. In this embodiment, as many substrate-side electrodes are present on the first substrate as there are optical layer-side electrodes, and in the shown situation, these each comprise two electrodes. This embodiment uses the optical modulator 332 from Figure 9a.

[0276] All electrodes 301-306 are connected to the optical modulator drive system 423. The optical modulator drive system 423 is configured to bias the electrodes to enable horizontal drive while the energy conversion layer is operating. Power generation, for example, charging a battery or similar device, is performed in this case by the optical modulator drive system 423.

[0277] The electrodes and energy conversion layer of the optical modulator are patterned. In embodiments, the energy conversion layer is a photovoltaic stack, which may also be patterned, particularly if it is not sufficiently transparent. While it is assumed below that the energy conversion layer is a photovoltaic stack, this may be modified to something else as shown herein.

[0278] When sunlight strikes the first substrate of the device, electrons are generated at electrodes 303, 304, 305, and 306. This creates a potential difference between these electrodes.

[0279] If the optical modulator is not operating or driven: the generated potential will vary depending on the solar exposure. The generated electricity can be supplied to a battery or grid. The potential between electrodes 1 and 3 may be kept at zero. Therefore, the optical modulator driving system may measure the potential between electrode 303 and electrode 301 and adjust it so that the potential applied to electrode 301 is the same. The same may be done for electrodes 304 and 302.

[0280] When the optical modulator operates from a dark state to a bright state, and a perpendicular electric field is expected within the optical layer, electrode pairs 301, 302 and 303, 304 and 305, 306 are expected to be at the same potential. The potentials on electrodes 303 and 304 may fluctuate due to solar exposure. The drive system is configured to measure the potential progression and adjust the potentials on electrodes 301 and 302 to obtain the desired potential difference in the optical layer. The current generated by the energy conversion layer can be discharged to a battery or grid, or directly to an electronic board driving the optical modulator.

[0281] When the optical modulator operates from a bright state to a dark state, a horizontal electric field is expected within the optical layer. The potential differences between 303, 305 and 304, 306 are expected to be the same, but will vary depending on solar exposure. The potentials on electrodes 301 and 302 and electrodes 303 and 304 are expected to be different. Since the potential differences between 303, 305 and 304, 306 are expected to be the same, the drive system may be configured to measure the potentials of electrodes 303, 304, 305, and 306 and shift the potentials between 301, 302 and 303, 304 to maintain the same potential difference between 303, 305 and 304, 306, and to allow for a potential difference between 303, 305 and 301, 302.

[0282] Electrodes 305 and 306 are preferably transparent or partially transparent, for example, when the energy conversion layer is located only behind the electrodes. When the energy conversion layer is slightly larger than the electrodes, electrodes 305 and 306 do not need to be transparent.

[0283] Consider the following example: The black state is maintained, and energy conversion is in use. The following potentials may be used: electrode 305 = 3V, electrode 306 = 3V.

[0284] To maintain a black state, electrodes 301, 302, 303, and 304 are set to 0V. The 0V level can be any other value as long as the levels are equal across all four electrodes. The potentials between electrodes 303-305 and 304-306 may vary depending on sun exposure.

[0285] Vertical drive and energy conversion are in use. Electrodes 303 and 304 may be driven to ground. Electrodes 305 and 306 vary with sunlight. Electrodes 301 and 302 may be driven to generate an electric field. For example, they may have the following values: electrodes 305 and 306 = 3V, electrodes 303 and 304 = 0V (provided by light), electrodes 301 and 302 = + / - 20V (preferably oscillating). Horizontal drive Use the following values: Electrode 305=+21V, electrode 306=-21V Electrode 303=+24V, electrode 304=-24V Electrode 301=+24V, electrode 302=-24V or Electrode 305=-21V, electrode 306=+21V Electrode 303=-24V, electrode 304=+24V Electrode 301=-24V, electrode 302=+24V Note that the differences between 305, 303 and 306, 304 remain the same, but a DC offset is added. Any of these examples can be used with DC drive. The system can also possibly use both consecutively and alternately.

[0286] Figure 13a schematically shows an example of control method 601 for a four-electrode optical modulator system. Method 601 maintains the optical modulator in a dark state and / or without an electric field through the ink.

[0287] The method includes the following elements: Solar radiation comes into contact with the substrate and passes through the panel. - The photovoltaic stack generates electricity. A potential difference is created between electrodes 303 / 305 and 304 / 306, and the drive system sends the generated current from the PV stack to the battery or grid. - The drive system measures the potential of electrodes 303 / 304. - The drive system applies the measured potential of electrodes 303 / 304 to electrodes 301 / 302 in order to avoid the electric field within the optical layer.

[0288] Figure 13b schematically shows an example of control method 602 for a four-electrode optical modulator system. Method 602 may be used to drive the optical modulator from a dark state to a bright state to increase transmittance, or from a bright state to a dark state to decrease transmittance.

[0289] Method 602 is, Solar radiation comes into contact with the substrate and penetrates the device. - The PV stack generates electricity. A potential difference is created across electrodes 303 / 305 and 304 / 306. The drive system sends the generated current from the PV stack to the battery or grid. - Initiate modulation to match the transparency. This may be the normal modulation for electrodes 301, 302, 303, and 304. - The drive system defines the required potential on all electrodes 301 / 302 / 303 / 304 for a given moment t. - The drive system also measures the actual potential of electrodes 301 / 302, 303 / 304, and 305 / 306. - The drive unit calculates the potential for each electrode. - The drive unit applies the calculated potential to each electrode. Includes.

[0290] The last four parts may be repeated until the desired level of transparency is achieved.

[0291] To increase transparency, the potential may be calculated as follows: The initial potential is marked i, and the final potential is marked f. Et is the target potential difference. V represents the voltage.

[0292] V305f-V306f=V303f-V304f=V305i-V306i=V303i-V304i Et=V301f-V303f=V302f-V304f To reduce transparency, the potential may be calculated as follows: V305f-V306f=V303f-V304f=V305i-V306i=V303i-V304i Et=V301f-V302f=V303f-V304f V301f=V303f V302f=V304f An advantage of the embodiment having multiple substrate-side electrodes is that energy conversion does not need to be interrupted when transparency decreases.

[0293] The described four-electrode optical modulator system enables efficient control of transparency while maintaining energy conversion capability. The drive system measures and adjusts the electrode potential to obtain a desired potential difference within the optical layer, allowing the device to function effectively precisely when the energy conversion layer generates electricity due to solar exposure. By monitoring and adjusting the electrode potential, the optical modulator can provide a range of transparency levels while continuing energy generation.

[0294] Figure 14 schematically shows an example of a control method for the optical modulator method 610. Method 610 may be used for an optical modulator comprising a first substrate according to an embodiment. The second substrate may also be according to an embodiment, or may simply comprise optical layer side electrodes, etc. Method 610 is, - Applying a potential to at least one electrode on the optical layer side of at least one electrode system, thereby modifying the optical properties of the optical modulator, - The energy conversion layer converts energy into or from a voltage difference between the substrate side electrode and the optical layer side electrode.

[0295] For example, the optical modulator may be connected to the power generation system. Method 610 may also include selectively connecting and disconnecting the optical layer side electrodes from the power generation system. The optical layer side electrodes may be disconnected to allow a transverse electric field to be applied.

[0296] Many different ways of carrying out the method are possible, as will be apparent to those skilled in the art. For example, the order of the steps may be as shown, but the order of the steps may change, or some steps may be performed in parallel. Furthermore, other method steps may be inserted between the steps. The inserted steps may represent improvements to the method as described herein, or they may not be related to the method. For example, some steps may be performed in parallel, at least partially. Furthermore, a given step may not be completely completed before the next step begins.

[0297] Embodiments of the method may be executed using software that includes instructions for a processor system to perform embodiments of Method 610. The software may consist only of steps taken by a specific sub-entity of the system. The software may be stored on a suitable storage medium such as a hard disk, floppy disk, memory, or optical disk. The software may be transmitted as a signal along a wired or wireless connection, or using a data network, such as the Internet. The software may be made available for download to a server and / or for remote use on the server. Embodiments of the method may be executed using a bitstream configured to constitute programmable logic, such as a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), that performs embodiments of the method.

[0298] It will be recognized that the subject matter of this disclosure extends similarly to computer programs adapted to implement the subject matter of this disclosure, particularly computer programs on or within a carrier. The program may be in the form of object code, such as source code, object code, code intermediate source, and partially compiled forms, or in any other form suitable for use in implementing embodiments of the method. Embodiments relating to a computer program product include computer executable instructions corresponding to each step of the processing steps of at least one of the described methods. These instructions may be stored in one or more files, which may be subdivided into subroutines and / or linked statically or dynamically. Another embodiment relating to a computer program product includes computer executable instructions corresponding to each of the devices, units, and / or parts for at least one of the systems and / or products described.

[0299] Figure 15a shows a computer-readable medium 1000 having a writable portion 1010, and also a computer-readable medium 1001 having a writable portion. The computer-readable medium 1000 is shown in the form of an optical-readable medium. The computer-readable medium 1001 is shown in the form of an electronic memory, in this case a memory card. The computer-readable media 1000 and 1001 may store data 1020, the data may represent instructions, which, when executed by the processor system, cause the processor system to implement an embodiment of the method for an optical modulator according to the embodiment. The computer program 1020 may be embodied as a physical mark on the computer-readable medium 1000 or by magnetization of the computer-readable medium 1000. However, any other suitable embodiment is conceivable. Furthermore, although the computer-readable medium 1000 is shown here as an optical disc, it will be recognized that the computer-readable medium 1000 may be any suitable computer-readable medium such as a hard disk, solid memory, flash memory, etc., and may be non-recordable or recordable. The computer program 1020 includes instructions for causing a processor system to perform an embodiment of the method for an optical modulator.

[0300] Figure 15b shows a schematic diagram of a processor system 1140 according to an embodiment of an optical modulator system. The processor system comprises one or more integrated circuits 1110. The architecture of one or more integrated circuits 1110 is schematically shown in Figure 15b. Circuit 1110 includes a processing unit 1120, e.g., a CPU, for executing computer program components to perform the method according to the embodiment and / or implement its module or unit. Circuit 1110 includes a memory 1122 for storing programming code, data, etc. Part of the memory 1122 may be read-only. Circuit 1110 may include communication elements 1126, e.g., an antenna, a connector, or both, and similar. Circuit 1110 may include a dedicated integrated circuit 1124 for performing some or all of the processing defined in the method. The processor 1120, memory 1122, dedicated IC 1124, and communication elements 1126 may be connected to each other via an interconnect 1130, e.g., a bus. The processor system 1110 may be configured for contact and / or contactless communication using antennas and / or connectors, respectively.

[0301] For example, in an embodiment, the processor system 1140, for example, the optical modulator system, may include a processor circuit and a memory circuit, the processor being configured to execute software stored in the memory circuit. For example, the processor circuit may be an Intel Core i7 processor, an ARM Cortex-R8, etc. In an embodiment, the processor circuit may be an ARM Cortex-M0. The memory circuit may be a ROM circuit or non-volatile memory, for example, flash memory. The memory circuit may be volatile memory, for example, SRAM memory. In the latter case, the device may include a non-volatile software interface configured to provide software, for example, a hard drive, a network interface, etc.

[0302] System 1140 is shown as including one of the components described, but various components may be replicated in various embodiments. For example, processing unit 1120 may include multiple microprocessors configured to independently perform the methods described herein, or to perform elements or subroutines of the methods described herein, so that the multiple processors cooperate to achieve the functionality described herein. Furthermore, if system 1140 is implemented in a cloud computing system, the various hardware components may belong to separate physical systems. For example, processor 1120 may include a first processor in a first server and a second processor in a second server.

[0303] The following numbered clauses include examples of those intended. New claims may be stated for features taken from such clauses and / or combinations of such clauses and / or descriptions, and / or for claims in the course of proceedings of the present application or any further application derived from the present application, for example.

[0304] Clause 1. A transparent substrate (307) for use in an optical modulator, wherein the optical modulator has an optical layer, and the transparent substrate has at least one electrode system (305, 309, 303; 306, 309, 304) applied to the substrate, the electrode system comprising a stack of substrate-side electrodes (305; 306), an energy conversion layer (309), and optical layer-side electrodes (303; 304), the optical layer-side electrodes being arranged to modulate the electric field within the optical layer, and the energy conversion layer (309) being configured to perform a conversion between energy outside the substrate and the voltage difference between the substrate-side electrodes (305; 306) and the optical layer-side electrodes (303; 304).

[0305] Clause 2. The energy conversion layer (309) is listed below: - A photovoltaic stack configured to convert light incident on a substrate into a voltage difference, - A thermoelectric stack configured to convert the thermal difference between two sides of a substrate into a voltage difference. - Radio frequency energy scavenger layer, - LED configured to convert voltage difference into light A substrate as described in Clause 1, including one or more of the following.

[0306] Clause 3. The optical layer side electrode is positioned as a voltage reference for the energy conversion layer, as described in either Clause 1 or 2.

[0307] Clause 4. The substrate side electrode (305) and / or the optical layer side electrode (303) is a substrate according to any one of Clauses 1 to 3, comprising a large-area electrode.

[0308] Clause 5. The substrate according to any one of Clauses 1 to 4, wherein the energy conversion layer is arranged in multiple lines across the substrate, and the dielectric is arranged between the multiple lines of energy conversion layer.

[0309] Clause 6. The energy conversion layer is arranged over a large area across the substrate, as described in any of Clauses 1 to 5.

[0310] Clause 7. The electrode system is arranged in multiple lines across the electrodes, and the substrate-side electrodes and optical layer-side electrodes are arranged in multiple electrode lines, as described in any of Clauses 1 to 6.

[0311] Clause 8. The substrate according to Clause 7, wherein at least one electrode system comprises a first electrode system (305, 309, 303) and a second electrode system (306, 309, 304), wherein multiple lines of the first electrode system mesh with multiple lines of the second electrode system, and a dielectric applied between the meshed lines of the first and second electrode systems electrically insulates the substrate-side electrode and optical layer-side electrode of the first electrode system from the substrate-side electrode and optical layer-side electrode of the second electrode system.

[0312] Clause 9. The substrate according to Clause 8, wherein multiple electrode lines in the substrate-side electrode of at least one electrode system and multiple electrode lines in the optical layer-side electrode of at least one electrode system align when projected orthogonally onto the substrate.

[0313] Article 10. - When the energy conversion layer of at least one electrode system, as well as multiple electrode lines within the substrate-side electrode and the optical layer-side electrode, are projected orthogonally onto the substrate, they align, or - A substrate according to a combination of clauses 5 and 9 and any one of clauses 1 to 9, wherein the energy conversion layer of at least one electrode system extends beyond the boundaries of multiple electrode lines in the substrate-side electrode and the optical layer-side electrode when projected orthogonally onto the substrate.

[0314] Article 11. - The substrate-side electrode, the optical layer-side electrode, and the energy conversion layer are transparent. - The substrate-side electrodes and optical layer-side electrodes are transparent, and the energy conversion layer is arranged across the substrate in a pattern that spans the substrate, covering most of the substrate. - The substrate-side electrode and / or optical layer-side electrode include two layers: a transparent large-area electrode and a patterned opaque electrode. - The substrate according to any one of the clauses 1 to 10, wherein the optical layer side electrode comprises a transparent large-area electrode and a patterned reflective electrode aligned with the energy conversion layer.

[0315] Clause 12. A substrate according to any one of Clauses 1 to 11, comprising multiple energy conversion layers.

[0316] Clause 13. A transparent substrate as described in any of Clauses 1 to 12, wherein a highly conductive material is applied to the substrate.

[0317] Clause 14. An optical modulator comprising a first substrate as described in any of Clauses 1 to 13, a second substrate disposed opposite the first substrate, and an optical layer extending between the first substrate and the second substrate, wherein at least one optical layer-side electrode is applied to the second substrate, and the optical properties of the optical modulator are modifiable by applying a potential to at least one optical layer-side electrode of the electrode system. - An optical modulator in which energy is converted by an energy conversion layer into or from a voltage difference between the substrate-side electrode and the optical layer-side electrode.

[0318] Clause 15. Equipped with an optical modulator drive system, - The optical modulator driving system is configured to control the potential on the optical layer side electrodes of the first substrate and / or the second substrate. - A power generation system configured to generate current from an energy conversion layer on at least a first substrate, - The optical layer side electrodes on the first substrate are selectively connected to a power generation system, as described in Clause 14 of the optical modulator.

[0319] Clause 16. An optical modulator according to either Clause 14 or 15, wherein the optical layer side electrodes on the first substrate are connected to a power generation system through a first selective connector and to an optical modulator driving system through a second selective connector, and the first and second selective connectors are controlled to selectively connect the optical layer side electrodes to the optical modulator driving system or the power generation system.

[0320] Article 17. - The electrodes are arranged in multiple electrode lines across the second substrate. - The optical modulator according to any one of the clauses 14 to 16, wherein the second substrate is the substrate described in any one of the clauses 1 to 13, and the optical properties of the optical modulator can be further modified by applying a potential to the optical layer side electrode of the second substrate.

[0321] Clause 18. An optical modulator according to any one of Clauses 14 to 17, wherein the optical layer comprises a fluid, the fluid comprises particles, and the optical modulator is configured to apply a potential to the optical layer-side electrode of at least one electrode system, resulting in modulation of an electric field in the optical layer that provides electrophoretic and / or dielectrophoretic motion of particles in the optical layer, and resulting in modulation of light passing through the substrate.

[0322] Clause 19. An electrophoretic optical modulator according to any one of Clauses 14 to 18, wherein the particles are charged or can be charged, and at least a first electrode system and a second electrode system are applied to a first substrate, and multiple lines of the first electrode system and the second electrode system are alternating on the first substrate, and at least a first optical layer side electrode and a second optical layer side electrode are applied to a second substrate, and multiple lines of the first optical layer side electrode and the second optical layer side electrode are alternating on the second substrate.

[0323] Clause 20. The optical modulator according to Clause 19, wherein the optical modulator driving system is configured to control the potential on the optical layer side electrodes of a second substrate and on the optical layer side electrodes in an electrode system on a first substrate to obtain an electromagnetic field between multiple optical layer side electrodes that provides electrophoresis of particles toward or from one optical layer side electrode of multiple optical layer side electrodes, thereby resulting in modulation of the optical properties of the optical modulator.

[0324] Clause 21. The optical modulator driving system is configured to control the potential as an alternating current or voltage, as described in any of Clauses 14 to 20.

[0325] Article 22. - An electrophoretic optical modulator according to any one of clauses 14 to 21, wherein the optical modulator driving system is configured to maintain the optical modulator in an opaque state by controlling the potentials on the first optical layer side electrode on the second substrate and the second optical layer side electrode on the second substrate to be equal to the potentials on the optical layer side electrode of the first electrode system and the optical layer side electrode of the second electrode system.

[0326] Article 23. - An electrophoretic optical modulator according to any one of clauses 14 to 22, wherein the optical modulator driving system is configured to transition the optical modulator from a low transparency state to a high transparency state by controlling the first optical layer side electrode and the second optical layer side electrode on the second substrate to have different potentials from the opposing optical layer side electrode on the first substrate.

[0327] Article 24. - An electrophoretic optical modulator according to any one of clauses 14 to 23, wherein the optical modulator drive system is configured to transition the optical modulator from a highly transparent state to a less transparent state by controlling the potentials on the substrate-side electrode and the optical layer-side electrode in the first electrode system to be offset together in a first direction, controlling the potentials on the substrate-side electrode and the optical layer-side electrode in the second electrode system to be offset together in a second direction opposite to the first direction, and controlling the potentials on the first optical layer-side electrode and the second optical layer-side electrode on the second substrate to be equal to the potentials on the opposing optical layer-side electrode on the first substrate.

[0328] Article 25. - One or more different types of energy conversion layers and one optical layer, or - One energy conversion layer and multiple optical layers, or - One or more different types of energy conversion layers and multiple optical layers An optical modulator as described in any one of clauses 14 to 24, comprising:

[0329] Clause 26. An optical modulator method for an optical modulator comprising a first substrate and a second substrate disposed opposite to the first substrate, wherein an optical layer extends between the first substrate and the second substrate, and at least one optical layer-side electrode is applied to the second substrate, the method comprising applying a potential to at least the optical layer-side electrode of at least one electrode system to modify the optical properties of the optical modulator, and converting energy to or from a voltage difference between a substrate-side electrode and an optical layer-side electrode by an energy conversion layer.

[0330] Clause 27. A system comprising one or more processors and one or more storage devices for storing instructions, wherein, when an instruction is executed by one or more processors, it causes one or more processors to perform an operation for the method described in Clause 26.

[0331] Clause 28. A non-temporary computer storage medium on which instructions are encoded, the instructions, when executed by one or more computers, cause one or more computers to perform the operations described in Clause 26.

[0332] Clause 29. A method for manufacturing a substrate as described in any of Clauses 1 to 13, - By providing a transparent substrate, - Applying the substrate-side conductive layer to the substrate, - Applying a photovoltaic stack layer to a substrate, - Applying the optical layer side layer conductive layer to the substrate, - Applying dielectric coating to a substrate and Methods that include...

[0333] It should be noted that the embodiments described above are illustrative, not limiting, the subject matter currently disclosed, and that many alternative embodiments can be designed by those skilled in the art.

[0334] Any reference numerals placed between parentheses in a claim shall not be construed as limiting the claim. The use of the verb “comprise” and its conjugations shall not preclude the existence of elements or steps other than those stated in the claim. The articles “a” or “an” preceding an element shall not preclude the existence of multiple such elements. Expressions such as “at least one of” preceding a list of elements shall represent a selection of all or any subset of the elements from the list. For example, the expression “at least one of A, B, and C” should be understood as including only A, only B, only C, both A and B, both A and C, both B and C, or all of A, B, and C. The subject matter now disclosed may be implemented by hardware comprising several distinct elements and by a appropriately programmed computer. In a device claim listing several parts, some of these parts may be embodied by the exact same item of hardware. The mere fact that certain measures are mentioned in different dependent claims does not indicate that combinations of these measures cannot be used to one's advantage.

[0335] In the claims, references in parentheses refer to reference numerals in the drawings illustrating embodiments or to the formulas of embodiments, and thus enhance the clarity of the claims. These references shall not be construed as limiting the claims.

Claims

1. A transparent substrate (307) for use in an optical modulator, wherein the optical modulator has an optical layer, and the transparent substrate has at least one electrode system (305, 309, 303; 306, 309, 304) applied to the substrate, the electrode system comprising a stack of substrate-side electrodes (305; 306), an energy conversion layer (309), and optical layer-side electrodes (303; 304), the optical layer-side electrodes being arranged to modulate the electric field within the optical layer, and the energy conversion layer (309) being configured to perform a conversion between energy outside the substrate and the voltage difference between the substrate-side electrodes (305; 306) and the optical layer-side electrodes (303; 304). - The electrode system is arranged in multiple lines across the substrate, with the substrate-side electrodes and optical layer-side electrodes arranged in multiple electrode lines. - Multiple electrode lines in the substrate-side electrode of at least one electrode system and multiple electrode lines in the optical layer-side electrode of at least one electrode system, when projected orthogonally onto the substrate, align, - The energy conversion layer is arranged in multiple lines across the substrate, and the dielectric is placed between the multiple lines of the energy conversion layer. - A transparent substrate in which the energy conversion layer of at least one electrode system, when projected orthogonally onto the substrate, extends beyond the boundaries of multiple electrode lines within the substrate-side electrodes and beyond the boundaries of the optical layer-side electrodes.

2. The energy conversion layer (309) is listed below: - A photovoltaic stack configured to convert light incident on a substrate into a voltage difference, - A thermoelectric stack configured to convert the thermal difference between two sides of a substrate into a voltage difference. - Radio frequency energy scavenger layer, - LED configured to convert voltage difference into light A substrate according to claim 1, comprising one or more of the above.

3. The substrate according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the optical layer side electrode is arranged as a voltage reference for the energy conversion layer.

4. The substrate according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the substrate-side electrode (305) and / or the optical layer-side electrode (303) are provided with large-area electrodes.

5. A substrate according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein at least one electrode system comprises a first electrode system (305, 309, 303) and a second electrode system (306, 309, 304), wherein a plurality of lines of the first electrode system mesh with a plurality of lines of the second electrode system, and a dielectric applied between the meshed lines of the first electrode system and the second electrode system electrically insulates the substrate-side electrode and optical layer-side electrode of the first electrode system from the substrate-side electrode and optical layer-side electrode of the second electrode system.

6. - The substrate-side electrode, the optical layer-side electrode, and the energy conversion layer are transparent, and / or - The substrate-side electrodes and optical layer-side electrodes are transparent, and the energy conversion layer is arranged across the substrate in a pattern that spans the substrate, covering most of the substrate, and / or - The substrate-side electrode and / or the optical layer-side electrode include two layers, a transparent large-area electrode and a patterned opaque electrode, and / or - The substrate according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the optical layer side electrode comprises a transparent large-area electrode and a patterned reflective electrode aligned with the energy conversion layer.

7. A substrate according to any one of claims 1 to 6, comprising a plurality of energy conversion layers.

8. A transparent substrate according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein a highly conductive material is applied to the substrate.

9. An optical modulator comprising a first substrate according to any one of claims 1 to 8, a second substrate disposed opposite the first substrate, and an optical layer extending between the first substrate and the second substrate, wherein at least one optical layer-side electrode is applied to the second substrate, and the optical properties of the optical modulator can be modified by applying a potential to at least one optical layer-side electrode of the electrode system. - An optical modulator in which energy is converted by an energy conversion layer into or from a voltage difference between the substrate-side electrode and the optical layer-side electrode.

10. Equipped with an optical modulator drive system, - The optical modulator driving system is configured to control the potential on the optical layer side electrodes of the first substrate and / or the second substrate. - A power generation system configured to generate an electric current from an energy conversion layer on at least a first substrate, - The optical modulator according to claim 9, wherein the optical layer side electrode on the first substrate is selectively connected to a power generation system.

11. The optical modulator according to claim 9 or 10, wherein the optical layer side electrode on the first substrate is connected to a power generation system through a first selective connection and to an optical modulator driving system through a second selective connection, and the first and second selective connection are controlled to selectively connect the optical layer side electrode to the optical modulator driving system or the power generation system.

12. - The electrodes are arranged in multiple electrode lines across the second substrate, - The optical modulator according to any one of claims 9 to 11, wherein the second substrate is the substrate according to any one of claims 1 to 8, and the optical properties of the optical modulator can be further modified by applying a potential to the optical layer side electrode of the second substrate.

13. The optical modulator according to any one of claims 9 to 12, wherein the optical layer contains a fluid, the fluid contains particles, and the optical modulator is configured to apply a potential to the optical layer-side electrode of at least one electrode system, thereby causing modulation of an electric field in the optical layer to provide electrophoretic and / or dielectrophoretic motion of particles in the optical layer, and thereby causing modulation of light passing through a substrate.

14. An electrophoretic photomodulator according to any one of claims 9 to 13, wherein the particles are charged or can be charged, at least a first electrode system and a second electrode system are applied to a first substrate, a plurality of lines of the first electrode system and the second electrode system are alternate on the first substrate, and at least a first optical layer side electrode and a second optical layer side electrode are applied to a second substrate, a plurality of lines of the first optical layer side electrode and the second optical layer side electrode are alternate on the second substrate.

15. The optical modulator according to claim 14, wherein the optical modulator driving system is configured to control the potential on the optical layer side electrodes of a second substrate and on the optical layer side electrodes in an electrode system on a first substrate to acquire an electromagnetic field between a plurality of optical layer side electrodes that provides electrophoretic motion of particles toward or from one of the optical layer side electrodes of the plurality of optical layer side electrodes, thereby causing modulation of the optical properties of the optical modulator.

16. The optical modulator according to any one of claims 9 to 15, wherein the optical modulator driving system is configured to control the potential as an alternating current or voltage.

17. - An electrophoretic optical modulator according to any one of claims 9 to 16, wherein the optical modulator driving system is configured to maintain the optical modulator in an opaque state by controlling the potentials on the first optical layer side electrode on the second substrate and the second optical layer side electrode on the second substrate to be equal to the potentials on the optical layer side electrode of the first electrode system and the optical layer side electrode of the second electrode system.

18. - An electrophoretic optical modulator according to any one of claims 9 to 17, wherein the optical modulator driving system is configured to transition the optical modulator from a state of low transparency to a state of high transparency by controlling the first optical layer side electrode and the second optical layer side electrode on the second substrate to have different potentials from the opposing optical layer side electrode on the first substrate.

19. - An electrophoretic optical modulator according to any one of claims 9 to 18, wherein the optical modulator driving system is configured to shift the optical modulator from a state of high transparency to a state of low transparency by controlling the potentials on the substrate-side electrode and the optical layer-side electrode in the first electrode system to be offset together in a first direction, controlling the potentials on the substrate-side electrode and the optical layer-side electrode in the second electrode system to be offset together in a second direction opposite to the first direction, and controlling the potentials on the first optical layer-side electrode and the second optical layer-side electrode on the second substrate to be equal to the potentials on the opposing optical layer-side electrode on the first substrate.

20. - One or more different types of energy conversion layers and one optical layer, or - One energy conversion layer and multiple optical layers, or - One or more different types of energy conversion layers and multiple optical layers An optical modulator according to any one of claims 9 to 19, comprising:

21. A method for an optical modulator comprising a first substrate and a second substrate disposed opposite to the first substrate according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein an optical layer extends between the first substrate and the second substrate, and at least one optical layer-side electrode is applied to the second substrate, and the method includes applying a potential to at least the optical layer-side electrode of at least one electrode system to modify the optical properties of the optical modulator, and converting energy to or from a voltage difference between a substrate-side electrode and an optical layer-side electrode by an energy conversion layer.

22. A system comprising one or more processors and one or more storage devices for storing instructions, wherein when an instruction is executed by one or more processors, the system causes one or more processors to perform an operation according to the method of claim 21.

23. A non-temporary computer storage medium on which instructions are encoded, wherein when an instruction is executed by one or more computers, it causes one or more computers to perform the operation described in claim 21.

24. A method for manufacturing a substrate according to any one of claims 1 to 8, - By providing a transparent substrate, - Applying the substrate-side conductive layer to the substrate, - Applying a photovoltaic stack layer to a substrate, - Applying the conductive layer on the optical layer side to the substrate, - Applying dielectric coating to a substrate and Methods that include...

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