Electrochromic device and method for making an electrochromic device

Abstract

It relates to devices that provide a color change under the influence of an electric voltage, and in particular to electrochromic devices. [Solution] An electrochromic device comprising at least two electrodes that are flexible and optically transparent and divided into arbitrarily shaped conductive regions, with a hermetically closed space between the electrodes filled with an electrochromic composition, which may be fabricated in the form of a rigid polymer layer consisting of arbitrarily shaped regions with different electrochemical and optical properties.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of devices that change color under the influence of an electric current, in particular to electrochromic devices and methods for their manufacture.Various methods are known in the art for producing devices with electrically tunable light absorption properties, such as variable optical density filters, light modulators, information boards, and image display panels. [Background technology]

[0002] Electrochromism is a physical phenomenon found in certain compositions where certain optical properties, such as color or light transmittance, change reversibly upon application of a voltage, called a control voltage. Electrochromism provides the basis for the operation of various electrochromic devices, such as smart glass, well known to those skilled in the art. Various types of optical materials and optical structures can be used to construct the aforementioned compounds with electrochromic properties, and the specific structure depends on the specific purpose of the electrochromic device.

[0003] One method for producing electrochromic devices is known in the art (U.S. Pat. No. 4,902,108, issued Feb. 20, 1990, incorporated herein by reference), in which the conductive coating of one of the two light-transmitting electrodes is coated with a thickened solution of polymethylmethacrylate in a low-boiling solvent, which is then evaporated to obtain a layer of polymethylmethacrylate. Following this step, both light-transmitting electrodes are joined together at the periphery, while the electrodes are spaced apart from each other by a predetermined distance, and the space thus formed is filled through the opening(s) in the adhesive with an electrochromic solution containing cathodic and anodic components, and the filled space is then sealed. The layer of polymethylmethacrylate is dissolved, resulting in a thickening of the electrochromic solution, which greatly reduces the negative effect of gravitational "delamination" of the composition in the electrically colored state. The electrochromic composition is therefore actually prepared only after the assembly of the electrochromic device described above is completed. In addition, the electrochromic composition is in a liquid phase with a viscosity determined by the amount of polymer thickener, and if the cathodic and anodic components are not soluble in an ionic state, an indifferent electrolyte solution is introduced into the electrochromic solution to provide electrical conductivity for the electrochromic solution. The neutral electrolyte is based on a quaternary salt of bipyridine and is introduced into the composition.

[0004] One method for producing electrochromic devices is further known in the art (U.S. Pat. No. 5,471,337, issued Nov. 28, 1995, incorporated herein by reference), in which the space between the electrodes is filled with an electrochromic dispersion comprising a dispersion medium in the form of a solvent, preferably thickened with polymethylmethacrylate or plasticized with a polymeric solvent, a dispersed phase in the form of a polyoxometallate, as the cathode component, and an anode component.

[0005] Methods are additionally known for producing electrochromic devices by obtaining solid-like films of electrochromic compositions directly in the device itself by polymerization alone and / or with cross-linking of monomer chains using various types of initiators (EP 0 612 826 A1 of August 31, 1994, WO 97 / 34186 of September 18, 1997, and WO 98 / 42796 of October 1, 1998, which are incorporated herein by reference). However, such polymerization reactions are accompanied by volume shrinkage that adversely affects the quality of the electrochromic device. This negative effect can be particularly evident in electrochromic devices with large interelectrode spaces (1 mm to 2 mm), which are usually provided in electrochromic devices with large working surfaces (more than 0.5 m2).

[0006] Further known in the art is a method for producing flexible electrochromic panels, disclosed in US Patent No. 7,826,124 B2, issued October 2, 2008, which is incorporated herein by reference, in which insoluble polymer chains of an organic material are applied to one of the electrodes by electrochemical polymerization, and an ion storage film that interacts with the polymer chains of the first electrode is applied on the counter electrode. A significant drawback of this technique is that a liquid electrolyte is required for effective interaction between the two layers deposited on the flexible electrode. On the other hand, the presence of a liquid electrolyte requires additional effort and / or structure to maintain the electrochromic panel at a constant thickness, which significantly complicates both the structure and the method of device manufacture.

[0007] Moreover, a method for manufacturing a flexible electrochromic panel is further known in the art, disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 7,256,925 B2, issued July 10, 2006, which is incorporated herein by reference, which includes topically applying a semiconductor layer onto one of the electrodes, which is then coated with an electrochromic composition. However, this design still requires the use of a liquid electrolyte between the electrochromic layer and the counter electrode, which causes the same problems as the above-mentioned method. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0008] Therefore, there is a need for new and improved methods for the manufacture of electrochromic devices that do not suffer from the above-mentioned deficiencies of the prior art. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] The present invention relates to methods and systems that substantially obviate one or more of the above-referenced and other problems associated with conventional methods of manufacturing electrochromic devices.

[0010] According to one aspect of the embodiments described herein, there is provided a method of manufacturing an electrochromic device comprising at least two flexible electrodes and a hermetically closed space between the at least two flexible electrodes, at least one of the at least two flexible electrodes being optically transparent, and the hermetically closed space between the at least two flexible electrodes being filled with an electrochromic composition, the method comprising: (1) preparing an initial degassed electrochromic composition in the form of an electrochromic dispersion comprising at least one of a suspension and a colloid, the dispersion medium of the electrochromic dispersion comprising an electrochromic solution comprising a liquid solvent (a hot solvent and a cold solvent) and a cathode component and an anode component, the dispersed phase being selected from the group consisting of a highly dispersible polymer and a polymerizable polymer; (2) preparing at least one flexible electrode such that a conductive coating can be applied onto a polymer substrate in the form of mutually insulated conductive layers of any shape, (3) coating two or at least one of the flexible electrodes with an initial electrochromic composition, (4) drying the initial electrochromic composition applied onto the flexible electrode(s) to remove the cryogenic solvent and form a solid, uniform, homogeneous electrochromic layer, (5) stitching (laminating) one flexible electrode with a second flexible electrode, the electrochromic layer facing inward, (6) connecting the flexible electrodes to a current carrying electrical bus (contact), and (7) sealing the panel all around. To reduce the deleterious effects of atmospheric oxygen on the electrochromic composition, all steps in the manufacture and assembly of the electrochromic panel are preferably carried out in an atmosphere of an inert gas, such as argon, nitrogen, or carbon dioxide.

[0011] In various embodiments, the electrochromic panel is manufactured using flexible light-transmitting electrodes, including a polymer (in particular polyethylene terephthalate) or glass substrate coated on one side with a transparent conductive coating. The coating of the polymer substrate may be produced, for example, by applying doped indium oxide (In2O3) or doped tin oxide (SnO2) or a metal mesh, or both simultaneously. The conductive coating is applied to the polymer substrate in the form of mutually insulated layers of any shape. The application of the transparent conductive coating may be carried out by vacuum deposition of a film of metal, metal oxide, metal nitride through a template, or by printing with a conductive ink.

[0012] In various embodiments, the final configuration of the electrochromic panel is determined by the configuration of layers of electrically insulated conductive coatings, which may be of any shape, placed on the polymer substrate, for example, the use of said conductive layers of square shape makes it possible to produce the electrochromic panel having the shape of a matrix.

[0013] Additional aspects related to the present invention will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by the practice of the invention. Aspects of the present invention can be realized and attained by means of the elements and various combinations and aspects of the elements particularly pointed out in the following detailed description and the appended claims.

[0014] It is to be understood that both the foregoing description and the following description are exemplary and explanatory only and are not intended to limit the claimed invention or its application in any manner.

[0015] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the present invention and, together with the description, serve to explain and illustrate the principles of the present technology. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0016] [Figure 1] 1 shows an embodiment of an electrochromic panel having two light-transmitting electrodes in the form of 25 mutually insulated conductive square-shaped portions. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0017] The following detailed description refers to the accompanying drawing(s), in which identical functional elements are designated with like numerals. The aforementioned accompanying drawings illustrate, by way of example, and not by way of limitation, specific embodiments and implementations consistent with principles of the present invention. These implementations have been described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the invention, with the understanding that other implementations may be utilized, and that structural changes and / or substitutions of various elements may be made, without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention. Accordingly, the following detailed description is not to be taken in a limiting sense.

[0018] According to one aspect of the embodiments described herein, an electrochromic device is provided having an electrochromic composition in the form of a solid polymer layer that has an increased fade rate within a wide temperature range and provides stability to the electrochromic device operating under conditions that maintain the colored state for a long period of time and allow low voltage control and change of electrode polarity, thereby providing long-term uniformity of coloring and fade, especially for electrochromic devices with large processed surface areas. Exemplary electrochromic compositions that can be used in connection with the described electrochromic devices are disclosed in co-pending International Application PCT / US15 / 54335, entitled "ELECTROCHROMIC COMPOSITION AND ELECTROCHROMIC DEVICE USING SAME," which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0019] According to another aspect of the embodiments described herein, an electrochromic device is provided, comprising at least two electrodes, said electrodes being flexible and light-transmitting, and the space between the electrodes is sealed and filled with the prepared electrochromic composition, as described above. The described device achieves long-term stability of the colored state, and can be operated under conditions that allow low voltage control and reversal of electrode polarity, resulting in uniformity of coloring and fading. In addition, the described electrochromic device can be manufactured to have a large surface area.

[0020] According to one or more embodiments of the present invention, an electrochromic panel is obtained by manufacturing an electrochromic device comprising at least two electrodes that are flexible and light-transmitting with a hermetically closed space between said electrodes filled with an electrochromic composition. According to one or more embodiments, the method of the present invention comprises the following steps:

[0021] (1) preparing an initial electrochromic composition in the form of an electrochromic dispersion including a suspension and / or colloid, where the carrier fluid includes a hot liquid solvent, a cold liquid solvent, a cathodic component, and an anodic component, and the dispersed phase includes a finely divided polymer, the initial electrochromic composition having a relatively low viscosity and being suitable for application by a variety of methods known in the art, including gravity spreading, substrate immersion coating, roll coating, dip coating, spin coating, flow coating, and the like.

[0022] (2) manufacturing at least one of the flexible electrodes such that a conductive coating can be applied onto a polymer substrate in the form of mutually insulated conductive layers of any shape. A second flexible electrode is optionally manufactured similarly or being made solid. (3) coating at least one of the flexible electrodes with an initial electrochromic composition. (4) drying the initial electrochromic composition applied onto the flexible electrode(s) to remove the low temperature solvent and form a solid uniform electrochromic layer. (5) stitching (laminating) one flexible electrode with a second flexible electrode. The second flexible electrode is optionally made with a solid uniform electrochromic layer. (6) connecting the flexible electrodes to a conductive bus. and (7) sealing the electrochromic panel all around.

[0023] In one or more embodiments, the electrochromic solution may additionally include a neutral electrolyte, which is additionally introduced into the dispersion medium to accelerate the fading of the electrically activated electrochromic device and prevent the violation of the uniformity of coloring and fading after operating the electrochromic device under conditions of long-term polarization by application of DC voltage and / or after application of high voltage (overvoltage, breakdown voltage).

[0024] In one or more embodiments, it is desirable to use a finely divided polymer and a high temperature solvent in amounts and proportions sufficient to form a solid but flexible layer of the electrochromic composition that is characterized by a lack of brittleness when bent, is capable of providing flexibility, and retains its integrity over a wide temperature range.

[0025] In one or more embodiments of the method, the low temperature solvent is used to impart a low viscosity to the initial electrochromic composition to enable formation of electrochromic layers on a variety of substrates by known industrial methods such as gravity spreading, substrate immersion coating, roll coating, dip coating, spin coating, flow coating, and the like.

[0026] In one or more embodiments, after the low temperature solvent is removed (eg, by evaporation, such as by heating), a solid but flexible electrochromic layer is formed on the substrate.

[0027] In one or more embodiments, one or both of the low temperature solvent and the high temperature solvent may include an individual chemical compound or a mixture of chemical compounds.

[0028] In one or more embodiments, the cathodic component is an individual organic electrochromic compound, or a mixture of such organic electrochromic compounds, having at least one reversible reduction wave in the polarogram, and the anodic component is an individual organic electrochromic compound, or a mixture of organic electrochromic compounds, having at least one reversible oxidation wave in the polarogram.

[0029] In one or more embodiments, the compound may further include a UV stabilizer to protect the electrochromic compound from UV radiation. The compound may also include an antioxidant to protect the electrochromic compound from harmful effects resulting from its exposure to oxygen.

[0030] In one or more embodiments, all procedures for the manufacture and assembly of the electrochromic device are carried out in an atmosphere of an inert gas, such as argon, nitrogen, carbon dioxide, etc. This reduces the deleterious effects of atmospheric oxygen on the electrochromic composition.

[0031] In one or more embodiments, the electrochromic device is manufactured by using flexible, light-transmitting electrodes consisting of a polymer (e.g., polyethylene terephthalate) or glass substrate coated on one side with a transparent conductive layer such as doped indium oxide (In2O3) or doped tin oxide (SnO2) or a metal mesh. Such coatings may be used individually or in combination. To prevent contact between the electrodes, the electrodes are sealed so that the conductive coating appears inside the closed space formed between the electrodes and filled with the electrochromic layer. The distance between the electrodes is determined by the thickness of the solid electrochromic layer obtained after the electrochromic liquid composition is dried.

[0032] In one or more embodiments of the manufacture, the electrochromic device includes conductive buses disposed around the perimeter or along the long sides of the electrodes. These conductive buses may be located just outside the device or just inside, with output wires or other types of electrical contacts or connectors located on the exterior.

[0033] FIG. 1 shows an embodiment of an electrochromic panel having two light-transmitting electrodes in the form of 25 conductive, mutually insulated square-shaped portions. A cross-sectional view of said electrochromic panel is also shown. The electrochromic panel shown comprises flexible light-transmitting square-shaped electrodes 2 applied to a pair of substrates 3 in an amount of 25 for each substrate. The substrates 3 are polymer films, the surface area of ​​which depends on the specific application of said electrochromic panel. The space between the substrates 3 on whose surfaces the square-shaped light-transmitting electrodes 2 are applied is filled with an electrochromic layer 1.

[0034] In one or more embodiments, conductive buses 7 are routed around the periphery or along some of the sides of the electrochromic panel. The dimensions of these conductive buses 7 depend on the amount of conductive layer, which may have any shape. Alternatively, a double conductive bus 7 can be used for each of the upper and lower transparent conductive electrodes. The cross-sectional diameter of the bus conductors 8 forming the buses 7 is determined based on the area occupied by the conductive layer 2 of any shape and the characteristics of the electrochromic layer 1.

[0035] The conductive free-shape layers 2 arranged along the periphery of the electrochromic panel are directly electrically connected to corresponding conductors of the eight conductive buses 7. The device also comprises conductive contact wires 9 intended for connection to the respective buses (lines) of the internal conductive free-shape layers 2 not located on the periphery of the electrochromic panel. Each conductive contact wire 9 is routed to one conductive free-shape layer and insulated from the others. The other end of each conductive contact wire is connected to a given conductor 8 of the conductive buses 7.

[0036] In one or more embodiments, the electrochromic layer 1 is located between the transparent conductive electrodes. The electrochromic layer may be continuous without any breaks at the boundary of the free-shape conductive layer 2. The thickness of the electrochromic layer is determined based on the properties of the electrochromic composition and the requirements for the electrochromic panel. The electrochromic layer may have different compositions and properties in different parts corresponding to different free-shape conductive layers. Thus, the electrochromic layer may be colored differently in different parts corresponding to different free-shape conductive layers. The electrochromic layer may have different compositions and properties in the area of ​​the part of the conductive layer corresponding to a specific conductive free-shape layer. Thus, the electrochromic layer may be colored differently in the area of ​​one part corresponding to a given conductive free-shape layer.

[0037] In one or more embodiments, the conductive random-shape layers disposed around the periphery of the electrochromic panel may be connected using a conductive compound 11. The connection of the conductive contacts 9 to the internal conductive random-shape layers (not located at the panel periphery) may also be made using a conductive compound 11.

[0038] In one or more embodiments, sealing the electrochromic layer of the electrochromic panel is accomplished by gluing a loop around the perimeter of the panel or by using a sealant that prevents ingress of atmospheric oxygen into the electrochromic layer.

[0039] In one or more embodiments, an adhesive layer 5 that ensures adhesion of the electrochromic panel to glass may be applied on the panel facing side of the electrochromic panel. The adhesive layer 5 that ensures adhesion of the electrochromic panel to the glass may be coated with a peelable protective film 6. Before attaching the electrochromic panel to the glass, the protective film 6 is removed. Any other adhesive tape may be used instead of the adhesive layer 5.

[0040] In one or more embodiments, the transparent conductive electrodes of the electrochromic panel facing outward may also be coated with a protective layer 4. The protective layer 4 may include a layer that protects the electrochromic panel from mechanical influences and from UV and IR radiation. The use of a single layer combining all these protective properties is also an option.

[0041] 1 shows an exemplary embodiment of a design in which the electrochromic panel has a conductive layer with a square configuration. In such a design, the electrochromic panel has a common electrochromic layer 1 disposed between two flexible transparent conductive electrodes. Each transparent conductive electrode includes a polymer substrate 3 coated with a conductive metal mesh 2 divided into square sections. A total of 25 square conductive sections are used.

[0042] Conductive buses 7 are disposed around the periphery of the electrochromic panel. Each such bus 7 includes six or seven conductive wires 8.

[0043] The square conductive portions 2 disposed around the perimeter of the panel are connected to a conductive bus 7 using compound 11, and the square conductive portions located on the interior side of the electrochromic panel are connected to the perimeter of the electrochromic panel by conductive contact wires 9. Along the perimeter of the electrochromic panel, the conductive contact wires 9 are connected to bus wires 8 using conductive compound 11.

[0044] The gaps between the square conductive portions 2 are filled with an insulating compound 10 .

[0045] One of the flexible transparent conductive electrodes of the electrochromic panel is coated with an adhesive layer 5, which is in turn coated with a protective film 6. The other flexible transparent conductive electrode of the electrochromic panel is coated with a protective layer 4.

[0046] A conductive bus 7 distributed around the periphery of the electrochromic panel is connected to a control unit / power supply (not shown) which provides the necessary voltage and current to each square conductor portion 2.

[0047] Example 1 In a first example, an electrochromic device was fabricated with two flexible light-transmitting electrodes, each of which was a polyethylene terephthalate substrate having a thickness of 175 microns and a resistivity of 30 ohms / cm. 2 The electrodes included a polyethylene terephthalate substrate coated with a single layer of indium-doped SnO2 having a surface electrical resistivity of 0.01 mm. Each electrode had a size of 5 × 6 cm. 2 One electrode was uniformly coated with an electrochromic composition comprising the following components: a viologen derivative (1.5% by weight) and a ferrocene derivative (0.75% by weight) in a solvent, i.e. propylene carbonate and / or acetone, and a dispersed phase of a copolymer of polymethylmethacrylate, methacrylic acid and the calcium salt of methacrylic acid (35% by weight). The electrochromic composition was dried for 20 hours to form a solid electrochromic layer on the flexible electrode with a thickness of 100 microns. A second flexible electrode was then laminated on the dried electrochromic layer at a temperature of 100° C. with an offset of 5 mm relative to the first layer. A copper tape, connectable to the leads of a control / power unit, was then attached to the uncoated area of ​​the flexible electrode facing the conductive coating, using a conductive adhesive composition.

[0048] In this embodiment, the electrochromic device had a light transmittance equal to 75% in the visible range of the spectrum. When a current of 2V DC was applied to the device, its color changed to dark blue. The time for a complete color change from transparent to dark blue was 7 seconds. After completion of the transient period, the voltage application was stopped and the electrodes were shorted. The electrochromic device returned to its original (transparent) state within about 10 seconds.

[0049] Example 2 In a second embodiment, the electrochromic device comprises flexible electrodes each having a cell size of 300 microns and a resistivity of 2 ohms / cm 2The substrate was fabricated in the same manner as described in Example 1, except that the substrate included a polyethylene terephthalate substrate having a thickness of 100 microns coated with a metallic copper mesh having a surface electrical resistivity equal to

[0050] This embodiment of the electrochromic device had a light transmission of 80% in the visible range of the spectrum. When a DC current of 2V was applied to the device, the color of the electrochromic layer changed to dark blue. The time for a complete color change from transparent to dark blue was 4 seconds. After completion of the transient period, the voltage application was stopped and the electrodes were shorted. The electrochromic device returned to its original (transparent) state within about 6 seconds.

[0051] Example 3 In a third example, the electrochromic device was manufactured in the same manner as described in Example 2, except that the electrochromic composition was applied uniformly to each electrode in half the amount. After drying of the electrochromic layer, the flexible electrodes were laminated with the applied layers facing each other. Such a process made it possible to obtain an electrochromic device in which the electrochromic layer was uniformly adhered to the flexible electrodes.

[0052] In this embodiment, the electrochromic device had a light transmittance equal to 80% in the visible range of the spectrum. When a current of DC 2V was applied to the device, the color of the electrochromic layer changed to dark blue. The time for a complete color change from transparent to dark blue was 4 seconds. After the completion of the transient period, the voltage application was stopped and the electrodes were shorted. The electrochromic device returned to its original (transparent) state within about 6 seconds. In this case, the electrochromic layer showed a more uniform color than in the device described in Example 2.

[0053] Example 4 In a fourth embodiment, the electrochromic device comprises one of the flexible electrodes having four bands, each of which is 3×10 cm 2 Coated with metallic copper mesh divided into four bands with dimensions of 12 x 10 cm 2 The second flexible electrode was fabricated in the same manner as described in Example 3, except that the first electrode included a polyethylene terephthalate substrate having dimensions of 12×10 cm and a thickness of 100 microns. The second flexible electrode was coated with a continuous metallic copper mesh. 2 When completed, the flexible electrode having a continuous copper mesh was connected to one wire of the bus and each flexible copper band of the second flexible electrode was connected to a separate wire of the bus.

[0054] In this embodiment of the electrochromic device, the flexible electrode with a continuous copper mesh received a zero potential, while each copper band of the second flexible electrode could be individually supplied with -2V, 0, or +2V. When any of the bands received -2V or +2V, the electrochromic layer of that band changed its color to deep blue within 5 seconds. A voltage change to the opposite voltage resulted in fading of each band to 50% of the initial darkening within 2 seconds, followed by restoration of the deep blue color over a period of approximately 2 seconds.

[0055] Example 5 In a fifth embodiment, the electrochromic device comprises one of the flexible electrodes having a metallic copper mesh coated on the flexible electrode, the metallic copper mesh being 2.6 cm x 2.6 cm. 2 10×10 cm 2The flexible electrodes were fabricated in the same manner as described in Example 4, except that the square in the middle comprised a polyethylene terephthalate substrate having a size of 10 cm x 10 cm x 10 cm 2 and a thickness of 100 microns. The middle square had contact wires located in the gaps between the other squares that led to contact pads located on the edges of the flexible electrodes. The second flexible electrode was a 10 x 10 cm 2 flexible electrode coated with a continuous metallic copper mesh. 2 When completed, the flexible electrode having a continuous copper mesh was connected to one wire of the bus and each flexible copper band of the second flexible electrode was connected to a separate wire of the bus.

[0056] In this embodiment of the electrochromic device, the flexible electrode with solid copper mesh was set to zero potential, while each square copper electrode of the second flexible electrode could receive a potential of -2V, 0, or +2V individually. When any of the squares received a potential of -2 or +2, the color of the electrochromic layer of each band changed to deep blue within 4 seconds. To accelerate the fading of any square portion of the electrochromic device, an opposite potential was first applied to provide 50% fading, and then this square portion was shorted with the second flexible electrode. In this case, fading of each square portion occurred within 4 seconds.

[0057] Finally, it should be understood that the processes and techniques described herein are not inherently related to any particular equipment, but may be implemented by any suitable combination of components. Moreover, various types of general-purpose equipment may be used in accordance with the teachings described herein. It may also prove advantageous to construct specialized equipment to perform the method steps described herein. While the present invention has been described in connection with specific embodiments, the same are intended in all respects to be illustrative and not restrictive.

[0058] Moreover, other implementations of the invention will be apparent to those skilled in the art from consideration of the specification and practice of the invention disclosed herein. Various aspects and / or components of the described embodiments may be used alone or in any combination in a method of making an electrochromic composition for use in a device involving electrically controlled absorption of light. It is intended that the specification and examples be considered as exemplary only, with a true scope and spirit of the invention being indicated by the following claims. Yet another aspect of the present invention may be as follows. [1] An electrochromic device comprising at least two flexible electrodes and a hermetically closed space between the at least two flexible electrodes, wherein at least one of the at least two flexible electrodes is light-transmitting, and the hermetically closed space between the at least two flexible electrodes is filled with an electrochromic composition, the electrochromic device comprising: (1) preparing an initial electrochromic composition in the form of an electrochromic dispersion comprising at least one of a suspension and a colloid, wherein a carrier medium of the electrochromic dispersion comprises an electrochromic solution comprising a liquid solvent comprising a hot solvent and a cold solvent, a cathodic component, and an anodic component, and wherein a dispersed phase of the electrochromic dispersion comprises a finely divided polymer; (2) preparing at least one of the two flexible electrodes in such a way that a conductive coating is applied onto a polymer substrate in the form of mutually insulated conductive layers or portions of any shape; (3) coating at least one of the flexible electrodes with an initial electrochromic composition; (4) drying the initial electrochromic composition coated on the flexible electrode(s) to remove the low temperature solvent and form a solid, uniform, homogeneous electrochromic layer; (5) laminating one flexible electrode having the dried electrochromic composition with another flexible electrode; (6) connecting all of the layers or portions of the flexible electrode to a conductive bus; (7) sealing a hermetically enclosed space between the two flexible electrodes; and 2. An electrochromic device manufactured by a method comprising: [2] The electrochromic device described in [1], wherein the electrochromic solution further contains a neutral electrolyte. [3] The electrochromic device of [1] above, wherein the finely divided polymer is provided in an amount sufficient to form a solid layer of the initial electrochromic composition. [4] The electrochromic device of [1], wherein the high temperature solvent and / or the low temperature solvent comprise a chemical compound or a mixture of chemical compounds, either individually or in combination.

[0059] Yet another aspect of the present invention may be as follows. [1] A method for manufacturing an electrochromic device comprising at least two flexible electrodes and a hermetically closed space between the at least two flexible electrodes, at least one of which is optically transparent, and the hermetically closed space between the at least two flexible electrodes is filled with an electrochromic composition, the method comprising: (1) preparing an initial electrochromic composition in the form of an electrochromic dispersion comprising at least one of a suspension and a colloid, the dispersion medium of the electrochromic dispersion comprising an electrochromic solution comprising a high temperature solvent, a low temperature solvent, a cathode component and an anode component, and the dispersed phase of the electrochromic dispersion comprises a highly dispersible polymer; (2) filling the hermetically closed space between the at least two flexible electrodes with a dried electrochromic composition; and (3) sealing the hermetically closed space between the at least two flexible electrodes. [2] A method for producing an electrochromic device as described in [1] above, wherein the electrochromic solution further contains a neutral electrolyte. [3] The method for producing an electrochromic device described in [1] above, wherein the highly dispersible polymer is provided in an amount sufficient to form a solid layer of the electrochromic composition. [4] The method for producing an electrochromic device according to [1] above, wherein the high temperature solvent and / or the low temperature solvent comprise a chemical compound or a mixture of chemical compounds, either individually or in combination. [5] A method for producing an electrochromic device according to [1] above, wherein the cathode component is an individual organic electrochromic compound having at least one reversible reduction wave in a polarogram. [6] A method for producing an electrochromic device according to [1] above, wherein the anode component is an individual organic electrochromic compound having at least one reversible oxidation wave in a polarogram. [7] A method for producing the electrochromic device described in [1], further comprising the steps of applying the initial electrochromic composition onto at least one of the two flexible electrodes and drying the applied initial electrochromic composition to complete removal of the low-temperature solvent. [8] A method for producing the electrochromic device described in [1], further comprising the steps of applying half of the initial electrochromic composition onto each of the two flexible electrodes, drying the applied initial electrochromic composition, and laminating a first of the two flexible electrodes to a second of the two flexible electrodes. [9] The method for producing the electrochromic device described in [1] above, wherein the initial electrochromic composition further comprises an ultraviolet (UV) blocking additive.

[10] The method for producing an electrochromic device according to [1] above, wherein the initial electrochromic composition further comprises an antioxidant.

[11] A method for producing the electrochromic device described in [1], further comprising applying a protective layer onto the electrochromic device to protect it from infrared (IR) radiation.

[12] A method for manufacturing an electrochromic device as described in [1], wherein the at least two flexible electrodes include a polymer substrate coated on one side with a transparent conductive layer of doped indium oxide (In2O3) or doped tin oxide (SnO2).

[13] A method for producing an electrochromic device according to

[12] above, wherein the polymer substrate is a polyethylene terephthalate substrate.

[14] A method for manufacturing an electrochromic device as described in

[12] , wherein the at least two flexible electrodes are hermetically bonded around their periphery so that the transparent conductive layer is located within a closed space defined between the at least two flexible electrodes.

[15] A method for manufacturing an electrochromic device as described in

[14] , wherein the bond between the at least two flexible electrodes includes a spacer to provide a predetermined distance between the at least two flexible electrodes.

[16] A method for manufacturing the electrochromic device described in [1], wherein a bus of conductive traces is provided along the longest sides of the at least two flexible electrodes.

[17] An electrochromic device comprising at least two flexible electrodes and a hermetically closed space between the at least two flexible electrodes, at least one of the at least two flexible electrodes being optically transparent, the hermetically closed space between the at least two flexible electrodes being filled with an electrochromic composition, the electrochromic device being manufactured by a method comprising: (1) preparing an initial electrochromic composition in the form of an electrochromic dispersion comprising at least one of a suspension and a colloid, the dispersion medium of the electrochromic dispersion comprising an electrochromic solution comprising a high temperature solvent, a low temperature solvent, a cathode component and an anode component, and the dispersed phase of the electrochromic dispersion comprising a highly dispersible polymer; (2) filling the hermetically closed space between the at least two flexible electrodes with a dried electrochromic composition; and (3) sealing the hermetically closed space between the at least two flexible electrodes.

[18] The electrochromic device according to

[17] , wherein the electrochromic solution further contains a neutral electrolyte.

[19] The electrochromic device of

[17] , wherein the highly dispersible polymer is provided in an amount sufficient to form a solid layer of the initial electrochromic composition.

[20] The electrochromic device of

[17] , wherein the high temperature solvent and / or the low temperature solvent comprises a chemical compound or a mixture of chemical compounds, either individually or in combination.

Claims

1. (a) a pair of flexible electrodes facing each other and defining an enclosed space therebetween, each flexible electrode independently comprising: (i) a substrate; and (ii) a conductive layer on a surface of the substrate, each conductive layer independently including a plurality of conductive inter-insulating portions each having a square shape; Including, flexible electrodes, the conductive layers of which face each other, and at least one of the pair of flexible electrodes is optically transparent; (b) an electrochromic layer disposed within the enclosed space and between each of the pair of conductive layers; and 13. An electrochromic device comprising: wherein said electrochromic device is a flat electrochromic panel.

2. The electrochromic device of claim 1 , wherein each substrate of the pair of flexible electrodes is independently a polymer substrate.

3. 2. The electrochromic device of claim 1, wherein the electrochromic device includes a plurality of conductive buses, and each conductive inter-insulating portion of each conductive layer is independently electrically connected to one of the plurality of conductive buses.

4. a periphery of the electrochromic device; and a plurality of conductive peripheral buses located along the periphery of the electrochromic device, the plurality of conductive inter-insulating portions comprising: (i) a plurality of electrically conductive, mutually insulating peripheral portions; and (ii) a plurality of conductive inter-insulating interior portions, each of which is positioned interior to the plurality of conductive inter-insulating peripheral portions; Including, 2. The electrochromic device of claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of conductive mutually insulating peripheral portions is independently electrically connected directly to one conductive peripheral bus, and each of the plurality of conductive mutually insulating internal portions is independently electrically connected in each case to one conductive peripheral bus by a conductive contact wire, each conductive contact wire being electrically insulated from each of the other conductive contact wires.

5. 5. The electrochromic device of claim 4, wherein each of the plurality of electrically conductive inter-insulating peripheral portions is independently electrically connected directly to one electrically conductive peripheral bus by a conductive compound.

6. 10. The electrochromic device of claim 1, wherein each conductive inter-insulating portion of each conductive layer is electrically isolated from each adjacent conductive inter-insulating portion by a gap.

7. The electrochromic device of claim 6 , wherein each gap is filled with an insulating compound.

8. 10. The electrochromic device of claim 1, wherein each conductive layer independently comprises at least one of doped indium oxide, doped tin oxide, and metal mesh.

9. The electrochromic device of claim 1 , wherein the electrochromic layer is solid, uniform, and homogeneous.

10. 2. The electrochromic device of claim 1, wherein the electrochromic layer is solid and non-uniform, each shaped conductive, inter-insulating portion of the conductive layer is positionally associated with a correspondingly positioned portion of the electrochromic layer, and each correspondingly positioned portion of the electrochromic layer independently comprises an electrochromic composition different from at least one other correspondingly positioned portion of the electrochromic layer.

11. The electrochromic device of claim 1 , wherein the electrochromic layer comprises an anodic component, a cathodic component, and a finely divided polymer.

12. In the electrochromic layer, the anode component comprises a viologen derivative; the cathode component comprises a ferrocene derivative; and 12. The electrochromic device of claim 11, wherein the finely divided polymer comprises a copolymer of methyl methacrylate and methacrylic acid.

13. 10. The electrochromic device of claim 1, further comprising a power supply and control unit that independently and controllably supplies voltage and current to each of the plurality of electrically conductive, inter-insulating portions, each having an arbitrary shape.

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