Electrochromic film, electrochromic device and method for manufacturing the same, electrochromic glass, and vehicle

Abstract

An electrochromic film (100), an electrochromic device and its manufacturing method, an electrochromic glass, and a vehicle are provided. The electrochromic film (100) includes a first transparent conductive layer (10), a second transparent conductive layer (20), and an electrochromic functional layer (30). Multi-segment electrode sub-lines (11, 21) are provided at intervals on at least one edge of each of the first transparent conductive layer (10) and the second transparent conductive layer (20). An orthogonal projection of the multi-segment electrode sub-lines (11, 21) of the first transparent conductive layer (10) and an orthogonal projection of the multi-segment electrode sub-lines (11, 21) of the second transparent conductive layer (20) on a plane on which the first transparent conductive layer (10) or the second transparent conductive layer (20) is located at least have an overlapping portion. The electrochromic functional layer (30) is disposed between the first transparent conductive layer (10) and the second transparent conductive layer (20). The first transparent conductive layer (10) and the second transparent conductive layer (20) are provided with multi-segment electrode sub-lines (11, 21) at the edges of each side, thereby solving the problem of non-uniform conduction of operating current caused by the provision of openings, and ensuring rapid and uniform color change of the electrochromic film (100).

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This application claims priority to Chinese Patent Application No. 202110855824.7, filed on July 28, 2021, entitled "Electrochromic film, electrochromic device and manufacturing method thereof, electrochromic glass, and vehicle," the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] The present application relates to the field of electrochromic devices, and in particular to electrochromic films, electrochromic devices and methods for making same, electrochromic glass, and vehicles. [Background technology]

[0003] Electrochromism (abbreviated as EC) is a phenomenon in which the optical properties (reflectance, transmittance, absorptance, etc.) of a material change stably and reversibly in response to an external electric field. When applied to automotive glass, electrochromic technology can not only adjust the light intensity inside the vehicle, improving comfort and preventing peeping, but also selectively absorb or reflect heat radiation inside and outside the vehicle, thereby reducing the use of air conditioning and saving energy.

[0004] As shown in Figure 1, a conventional electrochromic film 100' includes a first transparent conductive layer, an electrochromic functional layer, and a second transparent conductive layer, which are stacked in sequence. The first and second transparent conductive layers receive an external power source 200 via electrode wires 120, which generates an electric field between the first and second transparent conductive layers, causing the color and transparency of the electrochromic film 100' to change. The electrode wires 120 are provided at the edges of the first and second transparent conductive layers, and conventional wiring methods typically use a two-sided wiring method.

[0005] However, after laminating the electrochromic film 100' onto a curved glass surface, many wrinkles appear. This is due to poor fit between the flat electrochromic film 100' and the curved glass. To address this issue, as shown in FIG. 1, an opening 163 is typically formed on the edge of the electrochromic film 100' during production to improve fit between the flat electrochromic film 100' and the curved glass surface and reduce wrinkles. However, forming the opening 163 on the edge of the electrochromic film 100' can cut the attached electrode wire 120, resulting in a large portion of the electrode wire 120 being ineffective, such as the large portion of the electrode wire 120 below the opening 163 on the left side of FIG. 1. Excessive voltage drop causes a non-uniform electric field over a large area within the transparent conductive layer, reducing the response speed and color change uniformity of the electrochromic film 100'. Summary of the Invention

[0006] The present application aims to solve at least one of the technical problems in the prior art, and therefore proposes an electrochromic film, an electrochromic device and a method for manufacturing the same, electrochromic glass, and a vehicle.

[0007] In a first aspect of the present application, an electrochromic film is provided. The electrochromic film includes a first transparent conductive layer, a second transparent conductive layer, and an electrochromic functional layer. Multiple segments of electrode sub-lines are spaced apart along at least one edge of the first transparent conductive layer, and multiple segments of electrode sub-lines are spaced apart along at least one edge of the second transparent conductive layer. An orthogonal projection of the multiple segments of electrode sub-lines of the first transparent conductive layer and the multiple segments of electrode sub-lines of the second transparent conductive layer onto a plane on which the first or second transparent conductive layer is located has at least an overlapping portion. The electrochromic functional layer is disposed between the first and second transparent conductive layers. The extension direction of each segment of the electrode sub-line is parallel to the first or second transparent conductive layer corresponding to the electrode sub-line of each segment.

[0008] In a second aspect of the present application, there is provided an electrochromic device comprising a first substrate, a second substrate, and the electrochromic film according to the first aspect, the electrochromic film being disposed between the first substrate and the second substrate, with the first substrate facing the first transparent conductive layer and the second substrate facing the second transparent conductive layer.

[0009] In a third aspect of the present application, a method for fabricating an electrochromic device is provided. The method includes the following steps: providing a first substrate and a second substrate; forming a first transparent conductive layer on the first substrate and a second transparent conductive layer on the second substrate; forming an electrochromic functional layer disposed between the first transparent conductive layer and the second transparent conductive layer; forming a plurality of electrode sub-lines of segments spaced apart along at least one edge of the first transparent conductive layer; and forming a plurality of electrode sub-lines of segments spaced apart along at least one edge of the second transparent conductive layer. An orthogonal projection of the plurality of electrode sub-lines of the first transparent conductive layer and the plurality of electrode sub-lines of the second transparent conductive layer onto a plane on which the first or second transparent conductive layer is located has at least an overlapping portion. The extension direction of each segment of the electrode sub-line is parallel to the first or second transparent conductive layer corresponding to the electrode sub-line of each segment.

[0010] In a fourth aspect of the present application, there is provided an electrochromic glass comprising a first glass layer, a second glass layer, and the electrochromic device according to the second aspect, the electrochromic device being disposed between the first and second glass layers, with the first glass layer facing the first substrate and the second glass layer facing the second substrate.

[0011] In a fifth aspect of the present application, there is provided a vehicle comprising the electrochromic glass according to the fourth aspect.

[0012] In the electrochromic film according to the present application, a multi-segment electrode sub-line is provided on at least one edge of each of the first transparent conductive layer and the second transparent conductive layer, thereby minimizing the area of ​​the electrode sub-line that is damaged and ineffective when openings are provided on at least one edge, reducing the impact of voltage drop on the uniformity and response speed of discoloration, and ensuring a rapid and uniform discoloration of the electrochromic film after the openings are provided. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0013] In order to more clearly describe the embodiments of the present application or the technical solutions in the prior art, the following briefly introduces the drawings necessary for describing the embodiments or the prior art. Obviously, the drawings described are only some embodiments of the present application, and those skilled in the art can obtain other drawings from these drawings without creative efforts. [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing the structure of a conventional electrochromic film. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing the structure of the electrochromic film according to the first embodiment of the present application. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing the structure of the transparent conductive layer in FIG. [Figure 4a] FIG. 4a is a schematic diagram showing the structure of the transparent conductive layer of the electrochromic film according to the second embodiment of the present application. [Figure 4b] FIG. 4b is a schematic diagram showing the structure of the transparent conductive layer of the electrochromic film according to the third embodiment of the present application. [Figure 4c] FIG. 4c is a schematic diagram showing the structure of the transparent conductive layer of the electrochromic film according to the fourth embodiment of the present application. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram showing the structure of a transparent conductive layer of an electrochromic film according to a fifth embodiment of the present application. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram showing the structure of a transparent conductive layer of an electrochromic film according to a sixth embodiment of the present application. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram showing the structure of a transparent conductive layer of an electrochromic film according to a seventh embodiment of the present application. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram showing the structure of a transparent conductive layer of an electrochromic film according to an eighth embodiment of the present application. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram showing the structure of an electrochromic device according to an embodiment of the present application. [Figure 10]FIG. 10 is a flow chart showing the steps of a method for making an electrochromic device according to a first embodiment of the present application. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a flow chart showing the steps of a method for making an electrochromic device according to a second embodiment of the present application. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a flow chart showing steps in a method for making an electrochromic device according to a third embodiment of the present application. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram showing the structure of an electrochromic glass according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0014] The present application is further described in the following specific embodiments with reference to the above drawings. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0015] Hereinafter, the technical solutions of the embodiments of the present application will be clearly and comprehensively described with reference to the drawings of the embodiments of the present application. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of the present application, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments in the present application, all other embodiments that can be obtained by those skilled in the art without creative efforts are all within the scope of protection of the present application.

[0016] In the description of this application, directional or positional relationships indicated by terms such as "upper," "lower," "left," and "right" are based on directional or positional relationships shown in the accompanying drawings, and are intended to facilitate and simplify the description of this application, and do not expressly or imply that a device or element necessarily has a particular orientation or is constructed and operated in a particular direction, and therefore should not be construed as limiting this application. Furthermore, terms such as "first," "second," and the like are used for descriptive purposes only, and should not be understood as expressing or implying relative importance.

[0017] 2, in a first embodiment of the present application, an electrochromic film 100 is provided. The electrochromic film 100 includes a first transparent conductive layer 10, a second transparent conductive layer 20, an electrochromic functional layer 30, a multi-segment first electrode sub-line 11, and a multi-segment second electrode sub-line 21.

[0018] 2 is merely one example of the electrochromic film 100 and is not intended to be limiting, and the electrochromic film 100 may include more "layers" than those shown, such as an isolation layer, an electron transport layer, an optical adhesive layer, etc., without limitation thereto.

[0019] In the embodiment of the present application, the electrochromic functional layer 30 is provided between the first transparent conductive layer 10 and the second transparent conductive layer 20 .

[0020] The first transparent conductive layer 10 and the second transparent conductive layer 20 have the characteristics of high light transmittance and good conductivity. Exemplarily, the first transparent conductive layer 10 and the second transparent conductive layer 20 may include, but are not limited to, a conductive film containing a material such as indium tin oxide (ITO), a metal oxide, a metal nanowire, or a carbon nanotube. The first transparent conductive layer 10 and the second transparent conductive layer 20 may be made of the same material or different materials.

[0021] In the embodiments of the present application, the term "plurality" means a number equal to or greater than 2. For example, a multi-segment electrode sub-line means that the number of electrode sub-lines is equal to or greater than 2 segments, and the specific number of electrode sub-lines is not limited.

[0022] In an embodiment of the present application, multiple electrode sub-lines are provided at intervals along at least one edge of each of the first transparent conductive layer 10 and the second transparent conductive layer 20. The orthogonal projection of the multiple electrode sub-lines of the first transparent conductive layer 10 and the multiple electrode sub-lines of the second transparent conductive layer 20 onto a plane on which the first transparent conductive layer 10 or the second transparent conductive layer 20 is located has at least an overlapping portion. The extension direction of each electrode sub-line of a segment is parallel to the first transparent conductive layer or the second transparent conductive layer corresponding to the electrode sub-line of each segment. Specifically, the multiple electrode sub-lines being provided at intervals means that two adjacent electrode sub-lines of segments on the same side of each of the first transparent conductive layer 10 and the second transparent conductive layer 20 are spaced apart and not connected to each other. The orthogonal projection of the multiple segments of the first electrode sublines 11 in the first transparent conductive layer 10 onto a predetermined plane and the orthogonal projection of the multiple segments of the second electrode sublines 21 in the second transparent conductive layer 20 onto the predetermined plane do not completely overlap. The predetermined plane is the plane on which the first transparent conductive layer 10 or the second transparent conductive layer 20 is located. The extension direction of the first electrode sublines 11 in each segment is parallel to the first transparent conductive layer 10, and the extension direction of the second electrode sublines 21 in each segment is parallel to the second transparent conductive layer 20. Preferably, the orthogonal projection of the multiple segments of the electrode sublines in the first transparent conductive layer 10 onto the plane on which the first transparent conductive layer 10 or the second transparent conductive layer 20 is located does not have any overlapping portions.

[0023] In some embodiments, the multi-segment electrode sub-lines in the first transparent conductive layer 10 are provided on the edges of a set of opposing sides or on the edges of both adjacent sides of the first transparent conductive layer 10, and the electrode sub-lines on at least one of the pair of opposing sides or on at least one of the adjacent sides of the first transparent conductive layer 10 are spaced apart from each other. The multi-segment electrode sub-lines in the second transparent conductive layer 20 are provided on the edges of a set of opposing sides or on the edges of both adjacent sides of the second transparent conductive layer 20, and the electrode sub-lines on at least one of the pair of opposing sides or on at least one of the adjacent sides of the second transparent conductive layer 20 are spaced apart from each other.

[0024] Further, referring to FIG. 3 , the multi-segment electrode sub-lines in the first transparent conductive layer 10 are arranged on the edges of a pair of opposing sides of the first transparent conductive layer 10, and the multi-segment electrode sub-lines in the second transparent conductive layer 20 are arranged on the edges of a pair of opposing sides of the second transparent conductive layer 20, with the electrode sub-lines on the same side spaced apart from each other and the electrode sub-lines on one side of the pair of opposing sides alternately with the electrode sub-lines on the other side of the pair of opposing sides.

[0025] Furthermore, in one embodiment, the multiple segments of first electrode sublines 11 in the first transparent conductive layer 10 are spaced apart along the edges of a first set of opposing sides of the first transparent conductive layer 10, the first electrode sublines 11 on the same side are spaced apart from one another, and the first electrode sublines 11 on one side of the first set of opposing sides are staggered with the first electrode sublines 11 on the other side of the first set of opposing sides. The multiple segments of second electrode sublines 21 in the second transparent conductive layer 20 are spaced apart along the edges of a second set of opposing sides of the second transparent conductive layer 20, the second electrode sublines 21 on the same side are spaced apart from one another, and the second electrode sublines 21 on one side of the second set of opposing sides are staggered with the second electrode sublines 21 on the other side of the second set of opposing sides. The orthogonal projection of the second set of opposing sides onto the plane in which the first transparent conductive layer 10 is located overlaps with the first set of opposing sides.

[0026] 2 and 3, the first electrode sub-lines 11 of multiple segments (for example, four) in the first transparent conductive layer 10 are provided on the edges of a first set of opposing sides of the first transparent conductive layer 10 and on a side of the first transparent conductive layer 10 that is closer to the electrochromic functional layer 30, with the first electrode sub-lines 11 on the same side being spaced apart from each other, and the first electrode sub-lines 11 on one side of the first set of opposing sides being staggered with the first electrode sub-lines 11 on the other side of the first set of opposing sides. In other embodiments, the first electrode sub-lines 11 of multiple segments in the first transparent conductive layer 10 can be provided on the edges of the first set of opposing sides of the first transparent conductive layer 10 and on a side of the first transparent conductive layer 10 that is farther from the electrochromic functional layer 30. 3, in this embodiment, the first set of opposite sides of the first transparent conductive layer 10 are opposite sides extending in the OY direction. Specifically, along the OY direction, the first electrode sub-lines 11 of the odd-numbered segments in the first transparent conductive layer 10 are opposite sides of the second side of the first transparent conductive layer 10. 112The first electrode sub-lines 11 of the even-numbered segments are spaced apart from each other along the first side of the first transparent conductive layer 10. 111 The first side is provided at an interval. 111 the first electrode sub-line 11 at the second side 112 The first electrode sub-lines 11 are provided alternately and complementarily with the first electrode sub-lines 11 at the first side of the first transparent conductive layer 10. 111 In this embodiment, the multiple (e.g., four) segments of second electrode sub-lines 21 in the second transparent conductive layer 20 are provided on the edges of the second set of opposing sides of the second transparent conductive layer 20 and on the side of the second transparent conductive layer 20 that is closer to the electrochromic functional layer 30. In other embodiments, the multiple segments of second electrode sub-lines 21 in the second transparent conductive layer 20 can be provided on the edges of the second set of opposing sides of the second transparent conductive layer 20 and on the side of the second transparent conductive layer 20 that is farther from the electrochromic functional layer 30. The total length of the second electrode sub-lines 21 is approximately equal to the length of the first side of the second transparent conductive layer 20. 211 The second set of opposing sides of the second transparent conductive layer 20 are opposing sides extending in the OY direction. The structure of the second transparent conductive layer 20 differs from the structure of the first transparent conductive layer 10 in the following respects. Along the OY direction, the second electrode sub-lines 21 of the odd-numbered segments in the second transparent conductive layer 20 are arranged so as to be approximately equal to the side length of the first side of the second transparent conductive layer 20. 211 The second electrode sub-lines 21 of the even-numbered segments are spaced apart from each other along the second side of the second transparent conductive layer 20. 212 The difference between this and other embodiments is that the first electrode sublines 11 and the second electrode sublines 21 are disposed at intervals on the edges of the first and second transparent conductive layers 10 and 20, respectively. In this embodiment, when the first electrode sublines 11 and the second electrode sublines 21 are disposed offset from each other after assembly, the orthogonal projection of the multiple electrode sublines of the first transparent conductive layer 10 and the multiple electrode sublines of the second transparent conductive layer 20 onto the plane on which the first or second transparent conductive layer 10 or 20 is located does not overlap. This makes it possible to prevent short circuits from occurring between the first electrode sublines 11 and the second electrode sublines 21.

[0027] In an embodiment of the present application, methods for forming the first electrode sub-lines 11 and the second electrode sub-lines 21 may include, but are not limited to, methods such as applying copper foil and / or silver paste, attaching a metal sheet, or attaching a flexible printed wiring board. When the projection of a transparent conductive layer facing the electrode sub-lines covers the electrode sub-lines, an insulating layer must be provided on the electrode sub-lines to ensure that no short circuit occurs between the first transparent conductive layer 10 and the second transparent conductive layer 20. Of course, the conductive material of the opposing transparent conductive layer in the area covered by the projection of the electrode sub-lines on the transparent conductive layer facing the electrode sub-lines can be removed or insulated to ensure that no short circuit occurs between the first transparent conductive layer 10 and the second transparent conductive layer 20.

[0028] Illustratively, the lengths of the multi-segment first electrode sublines 11 may or may not be equal, and the lengths of the multi-segment second electrode sublines 21 may or may not be equal. Illustratively, the lengths of the multi-segment first electrode sublines 11 and the multi-segment second electrode sublines 21 are all equal, and the multi-segment first electrode sublines 11 and the multi-segment second electrode sublines 21 are arranged opposite each other. In some embodiments, the lengths of the multi-segment first electrode sublines 11 and the multi-segment second electrode sublines 21 may not be equal, and there is no limitation thereon.

[0029] In an embodiment of the present application, the electrochromic film 100 further includes a first bus line 14, a second bus line 24, and multi-segment lead lines electrically connected to the multi-segment electrode sub-lines in a one-to-one relationship. Specifically, the multi-segment first electrode sub-lines 11 provided on the first transparent conductive layer 10 are each electrically connected to the first bus line 14 by a corresponding first lead line 12. The first bus line 14 is used to supply external power to the multi-segment first electrode sub-lines 11 connected to the first bus line 14. The multi-segment second electrode sub-lines 21 provided on the second transparent conductive layer 20 are each electrically connected to a second bus line 24 by a corresponding second lead line 22. The second bus line 24 is used to supply external power to the multi-segment second electrode sub-lines 21 connected to the second bus line 24. When the electrochromic film 100 is connected to an external power source, the external power source generates an electric field between the first transparent conductive layer 10 and the second transparent conductive layer 20, causing the electrochromic film 100 to change color. In the embodiments of the present application, the term "color change" refers to a change in appearance or optical parameters (e.g., reflectance, transmittance, chromaticity, etc.). The first bus wire 14 may include one bus wire or multiple bus wires. Similarly, the second bus wire 24 may include one bus wire or multiple bus wires. There is no limitation thereon.

[0030] In some embodiments, the electrode sub-lines in each transparent conductive layer do not need to be collectively connected to an external power source via corresponding bus lines, and each segment electrode sub-line can independently connect to an external power source. When the electrochromic film 100 is connected to an external power source, it is sufficient to ensure that the electrode sub-lines of each segment in the same transparent conductive layer are equipotential.

[0031] Furthermore, because the transparent conductive layer has a high surface resistance, a voltage drop occurs during the process of conducting the operating current to the entire layer area of ​​the transparent conductive layer. If the voltage drop is too large, the color change response speed will be slow and the color change will be uneven. When the electrochromic film 100 or 100' is applied to electrochromic glass with a large segment height, openings 163 must be formed on the edges of the electrochromic film 100 or 100' before laminating the electrochromic film 100 or 100' to the finished glass to improve fit and reduce wrinkles. As shown in FIG. 1 , apparently, if openings 163 are formed on the edges of the conventional electrochromic film 100', a large portion of the electrode wires 120 will be ineffective, causing a large voltage drop during the process of conducting the operating current to the area below the openings 163 on the left side of the transparent conductive layer. As a result, the electric field will be uneven over a large area in the transparent conductive layer, resulting in a long response time for the electrochromic film 100'. Compared with the prior art, when the opening 163 is provided at the edge of the electrochromic film 100 according to the embodiment of the present application, only a small portion of the electrode sub-lines are cut and disabled. As shown in FIG. 3, the portion of the first transparent conductive layer 10 that is disabled by the opening 163 is Second side 112 along the OY direction in 3 Only a small portion of the first electrode sub-lines 11 of the segment are affected. Therefore, the conduction of the operating current in the other first electrode sub-lines 11 is hardly affected. As can be seen, the electrode sub-lines provided at the edge of each transparent conductive layer are shorter and the more densely they are arranged, the less the influence of providing the openings 163 on the conduction effect of the operating current. In particular, when the openings 163 are provided in an area where no electrode sub-lines are arranged, the influence on the conduction effect of the operating current is smaller.

[0032] In the electrochromic film 100 according to the present application, a plurality of electrode sub-lines are provided on at least one edge of each transparent conductive layer, thereby minimizing the extent to which the electrode sub-lines are damaged and ineffective when openings are provided on at least one edge of each transparent conductive layer, reducing the impact of voltage drop on the uniformity and response speed of color change, and ensuring a rapid and uniform color change of the electrochromic film 100 after the openings are provided.

[0033] Referring to FIG. 4a, in a second embodiment of the present application, a first transparent conductive layer of an electrochromic film 100 is formed with a plurality of dividing grooves penetrating both opposing or adjacent sides of the first transparent conductive layer, and the dividing grooves formed in the first transparent conductive layer are used to divide the entire layer area of ​​the first transparent conductive layer into a plurality of conductive units. A second transparent conductive layer of the electrochromic film 100 is formed with a plurality of dividing grooves penetrating both opposing or adjacent sides of the second transparent conductive layer, and the dividing grooves formed in the second transparent conductive layer are used to divide the entire layer area of ​​the second transparent conductive layer into a plurality of conductive units. Each conductive unit corresponds to one segment of an electrode sub-line, and two adjacent conductive units are isolated from each other by the dividing groove. The electrode sub-line of each segment is used to conduct operating current approximately uniformly to the conductive units corresponding to the electrode sub-line when an external power source is applied. It should be understood that the conductive units are independent of each other, so that the conduction effect of the operating current in each conductive unit is not affected by other conductive units, and therefore, even if the electrode sub-line corresponding to one conductive unit is cut, it will not cause uneven conduction of the operating current in other conductive units.

[0034] In the embodiment of the present application, the fact that each dividing groove penetrates both opposing or adjacent sides of the transparent conductive layer means that the dividing groove divides the transparent conductive layer in the depth direction (e.g., the OZ direction shown in FIG. 4a) and extends from one side of the transparent conductive layer to another opposing or adjacent side in the extension direction (e.g., the OX direction shown in FIG. 4a), thereby completely separating the transparent conductive layer. As shown in FIG. 4a, each of the three dividing grooves 13 extends from the first side to the second side of the first transparent conductive layer 10, thereby dividing the first transparent conductive layer 10 into four independent first conductive units 51.

[0035] Specifically, as shown in FIG. 4a, three dividing grooves 13 are formed in the first transparent conductive layer 10. Each dividing groove 13 extends through a first set of opposing sides in the OX direction, and both ends of each dividing groove 13 are connected to the ends of two adjacent electrode sub-lines of adjacent segments in the OY direction. The three dividing grooves 13 divide the entire layer area of ​​the first transparent conductive layer 10 into four first conductive units 51. Each first conductive unit 51 corresponds to one segment of the first electrode sub-line 11. When an external power source is applied, the first electrode sub-line 11 of each segment is used to conduct operating current approximately uniformly to the first conductive units 51 corresponding to the first electrode sub-line 11. Similarly, each second conductive unit 52 corresponds to one segment of the second electrode sub-line 21. In this embodiment, the multiple dividing grooves in each transparent conductive layer are approximately parallel to each other. As can be seen, when one segment of electrode sub-lines corresponding to each conductive unit is arranged to cover the edge of the side of the conductive unit where the electrode sub-lines are located, the uniformity of the operating current during conduction is the best.

[0036] Referring to FIG. 4b, in one embodiment, both ends of the dividing groove 13 may not be connected to the ends of two adjacent electrode sub-lines in the OY direction. As shown in FIG. 4b, the extension direction of the dividing groove in each transparent conductive layer forms an angle with the O-X direction, for example, an angle of 1° to 5°. Obviously, in this embodiment, the one-segment electrode sub-line corresponding to each conductive unit does not completely cover the edge of the side of the conductive unit where the electrode sub-line is located. Therefore, the uniformity of the operating current conduction in each conductive unit in this embodiment is inferior to that of the embodiment shown in FIG. 4a.

[0037] 4c, in one embodiment, the dividing grooves in each transparent conductive layer intersect with each other. Specifically, two dividing grooves 13 intersect with each other, and the two dividing grooves 13 divide the first transparent conductive layer 10 into four first conductive units 51. Each first conductive unit 51 corresponds to one segment of the first electrode sub-line 11. Two dividing grooves 23 intersect with each other, and the two dividing grooves 23 divide the second transparent conductive layer 20 into four second conductive units 52. Each second conductive unit 52 corresponds to one segment of the second electrode sub-line 21.

[0038] In some embodiments, the multi-segment electrode sub-lines in the first transparent conductive layer are spaced apart along an edge of one side of the first transparent conductive layer, and the multi-segment electrode sub-lines in the second transparent conductive layer are spaced apart along an edge of one side of the second transparent conductive layer.

[0039] Furthermore, in one embodiment, the multi-segment first electrode sub-lines 11 in the first transparent conductive layer 10 are provided on the edge of a first side of the first transparent conductive layer 10. The multi-segment second electrode sub-lines 21 in the second transparent conductive layer 20 are provided on the edge of a second side of the second transparent conductive layer 20. The orthogonal projection of the second side onto the plane in which the first transparent conductive layer 10 is located overlaps with the side opposite the first side.

[0040] In the embodiment of the present application, in order to improve the visual experience of the user, the width of the dividing grooves is limited to the extent that it is not discernible by the naked eye. Illustratively, the width of each of the plurality of dividing grooves is 5 μm to 200 μm.

[0041] Preferably, the plurality of dividing grooves in each transparent conductive layer are arranged substantially parallel to each other and at equal intervals. As can be understood, when the plurality of dividing grooves are arranged substantially parallel to each other and at equal intervals, the size of each conductive unit is substantially equal, and the uniformity of the conduction of the operating current in each conductive unit is good.

[0042] In the electrochromic film 100 of the present application, the transparent conductive layer is divided into multiple conductive units by multiple dividing grooves in each transparent conductive layer, so that the electrode sub-lines of each segment correspond to one conductive unit. Because the conductive units are independent of each other, when an opening 163 is provided at the edge of the electrochromic film 100, only the electrode sub-lines of the conductive unit where the opening 163 is located are cut. Therefore, the area affected by the provision of the opening 163 can be reduced to the conductive unit where the opening 163 is located, ensuring that the conduction effect of the operating current in other complete conductive units is not affected.

[0043] 5 to 8 , in some embodiments, the first electrode lines 11 of the first transparent conductive layer 10 are arranged along the edges of a first set of opposing sides of the first transparent conductive layer 10, with the first electrode lines 11 on the same side spaced apart from one another, and the first electrode lines 11 on one side of the first set of opposing sides alternate with the first electrode lines 11 on the other side of the first set of opposing sides. The second electrode sub-lines 21 of the second transparent conductive layer 20 are arranged along the edges of a second set of opposing sides of the second transparent conductive layer 20, with the second electrode sub-lines 21 on the same side spaced apart from one another, and the second electrode sub-lines 21 on one side of the second set of opposing sides alternate with the second electrode sub-lines 21 on the other side of the second set of opposing sides. The orthogonal projection of the second set of opposing sides onto the plane in which the first transparent conductive layer is located intersects the first set of opposing sides.

[0044] 5, the first electrode sub-lines 11 of the odd-numbered segments in the first transparent conductive layer 10 are spaced apart from each other along the edges of a first set of opposing sides. As shown in FIG. 5, in this embodiment, the first set of opposing sides of the first transparent conductive layer 10 are opposing sides extending in the OY direction. Specifically, along the OY direction, the first electrode sub-lines 11 of the odd-numbered segments in the first transparent conductive layer 10 are spaced apart from each other along the edges of the second side of the first transparent conductive layer 10. 312 The first electrode sub-lines 11 of the even-numbered segments are spaced apart from each other along the first side of the first transparent conductive layer 10. 311 The first side is provided at an interval. 311 the first electrode sub-line 11 at the second side 312The first electrode sublines 11 are arranged in a complementary and staggered manner with the first electrode sublines 11 in the first pair. Three dividing grooves 13 are formed in the first transparent conductive layer 10. Each dividing groove 13 extends through a first set of opposing sides in the OX direction, and both ends of each dividing groove 13 are connected to ends of two adjacent first electrode sublines 11 in the OY direction. The three dividing grooves 13 divide the entire layer area of ​​the first transparent conductive layer 10 into four first conductive units 51. Each first conductive unit 51 corresponds to one segment of the first electrode subline 11. Preferably, the length of the first electrode subline 11 covers the edges of the first conductive units 51 but does not cross adjacent dividing grooves. The first electrode sublines 11 of each segment are used to conduct operating current approximately uniformly to the first conductive units 51 corresponding to the first electrode subline 11 when external power is supplied. The second electrode sub-lines 21 of the plurality of segments in the second transparent conductive layer 20 are spaced apart from one another along the edges of the second set of opposing sides. As shown in FIG. 5 , in this embodiment, the second set of opposing sides of the second transparent conductive layer 20 are opposing sides extending in the OX direction. Specifically, along the OX direction, the second electrode sub-lines 21 of the odd-numbered segments in the second transparent conductive layer 20 are spaced apart from one another along the fourth side of the second transparent conductive layer 20. 314 The second electrode sub-lines 21 of the even-numbered segments are spaced apart from each other along the third side of the second transparent conductive layer 20. 313 The third side is provided at an interval. 313 the second electrode sub-line 21 at the fourth side 314The second electrode sublines 21 are arranged in a complementary and staggered manner with the second electrode sublines 21 in the second set. Three dividing grooves 23 are formed in the second transparent conductive layer 20. The dividing grooves 23 extend through the second set of opposing sides in the OY direction, and both ends of each dividing groove 23 are connected to the ends of two adjacent second electrode sublines 21 in the OX direction. The three dividing grooves 23 divide the entire layer area of ​​the second transparent conductive layer 20 into four second conductive units 52. Each second conductive unit 52 corresponds to one segment of the second electrode subline 21. Preferably, the length of the second electrode subline 21 covers the entire edge of the second conductive unit 52 but does not cross adjacent dividing grooves. The second electrode subline 21 of each segment is used to conduct operating current approximately uniformly to the second conductive units 52 corresponding to the second electrode subline 21 when an external power source is applied. The first electrode sub-lines 11 of the multiple segments in the first transparent conductive layer 10 are provided on a first set of opposing sides (i.e., opposing sides extending in the OY direction), and the second electrode sub-lines 21 of the multiple segments in the second transparent conductive layer 20 are provided on a second set of opposing sides (i.e., opposing sides extending in the O-X direction). This creates an openable region 40 at the edge of the electrochromic film 100 where no electrode sub-lines are provided. Therefore, if openings are provided in the openable region 40, the first electrode sub-lines 11 and the second electrode sub-lines 21 will not be cut.

[0045] As can be seen, the electrode sub-lines in the first transparent conductive layer 10 and the electrode sub-lines in the second transparent conductive layer 20 are arranged on different opposite sides of the electrochromic film 100, and the electrode sub-lines on a pair of opposite sides of the same transparent conductive layer are arranged alternately at intervals, thereby ensuring that there are openable areas 40 on the four edges of the electrochromic film 100. Therefore, if it is necessary to form openings 163 on any of the four sides of the electrochromic film 100, none of the multi-segment electrode sub-lines will be cut, and the conduction effect of the operating current will not be affected at all, so that the electrochromic film 100 can quickly and uniformly change color.

[0046] In the embodiment of the present application, the distance between two adjacent dividing grooves is determined according to the width of the opening 163 at the edge of the transparent conductive layer. Illustratively, the distance between two adjacent dividing grooves is at least twice the width of the opening 163.

[0047] For example, in the embodiments of the present application, the shape of the dividing grooves may include, but is not limited to, a straight line, a wavy line (as shown in FIG. 6), a zigzag line, etc., as long as they enable the transparent conductive layer to be divided into a plurality of conductive units. The shape of the dividing grooves is preferably a straight line.

[0048] Illustratively, in some embodiments, the dividing grooves in each transparent conductive layer are substantially parallel to one another and are equally spaced apart.

[0049] For example, in the embodiment of the present application, the lengths of the electrode sub-lines in each transparent conductive layer may or may not be equal. Preferably, the lengths of the electrode sub-lines in each transparent conductive layer are equal. This allows the operating current to be conducted more uniformly. Preferably, one segment of electrode sub-line corresponding to each conductive unit substantially covers the edge of the side of the conductive unit on which the electrode sub-line is located. In other words, the length of the electrode sub-line is equal to or less than the length of the side of the conductive unit on which the electrode sub-line is located.

[0050] 7, the electrochromic film 100 has a parallelogram shape. Preferably, the length of the first electrode sub-lines 11 covers the edges of the first conductive units 51 but does not cross adjacent dividing grooves. The length of the second electrode sub-lines 21 covers the edges of the second conductive units 52 but does not cross adjacent dividing grooves. The dividing grooves 13 in the first transparent conductive layer 10 are parallel to a first set of opposing sides of the first transparent conductive layer 10 and are equally spaced apart. The dividing grooves 23 in the second transparent conductive layer 20 are parallel to a second set of opposing sides of the second transparent conductive layer 20 and are equally spaced apart. This allows the operating current to be conducted more uniformly.

[0051] 8, for example, if the electrochromic film 100 has an irregular quadrilateral shape, the first electrode sublines 11 in the first transparent conductive layer 10 are arranged along the edges of the first set of opposing sides, and the first electrode sublines 11 on both sides of the first set of opposing sides are arranged in a staggered pattern. Preferably, the length of the first electrode sublines 11 covers the edges of the first conductive units 51 but does not cross adjacent dividing grooves. The multiple segments of second electrode sublines 21 in the second transparent conductive layer 20 are arranged at intervals along the edges of the second set of opposing sides, and the second electrode sublines 21 on both sides of the second set of opposing sides are arranged in a staggered pattern. Preferably, the length of the second electrode sublines 21 covers the edges of the second conductive units 52 but does not cross adjacent dividing grooves. In this way, the electrochromic film 100 can conduct the operating current almost uniformly throughout the entire area of ​​the transparent conductive layer, and there is an openable area 40 for providing an opening 163, ensuring that the conduction of the operating current is hardly affected by the opening 163.

[0052] In the electrochromic film 100 according to the present application, the electrode sub-lines of the two transparent conductive layers are arranged on different opposite sides, so that there are openable areas 40 on the edges of the electrochromic film 100 where no electrode sub-lines are arranged. When openings are arranged in the openable areas 40, the electrode sub-lines are not cut, which greatly improves the uniformity of the electric field in the transparent conductive layers, thereby ensuring the response speed of the electrochromic film 100 and realizing the electrochromic film 100 to change color quickly and uniformly.

[0053] 9, an embodiment of the present application further provides an electrochromic device 1. The electrochromic device 1 includes a first substrate 41, a second substrate 42, and the above-mentioned electrochromic film 100. The electrochromic film 100 is disposed between the first substrate 41 and the second substrate 42. The first substrate 41 faces the first transparent conductive layer 10, and the second substrate 42 faces the second transparent conductive layer 20.

[0054] For example, the first substrate 41 and the second substrate 42 have high strength and transparency, and can protect the electrochromic film 100 from external physical damage. The first substrate 41 and the second substrate 42 can be made of a flexible or non-flexible material. The flexible material can be made of a polymer material. The polymer material can include, but is not limited to, polyethylene terephthalate, polycarbonate-based materials, and polyacrylic acid-based materials. The non-flexible material can be glass or an acrylic plate. The materials of the first substrate 41 and the second substrate 42 can be the same or different. The above are merely examples of materials for the first substrate 41 and the second substrate 42 and should not be construed as limiting the first substrate 41 and the second substrate 42.

[0055] In an embodiment of the present application, the first transparent conductive layer 10 and a first substrate 41 adjacent to the first transparent conductive layer 10 form a single laminated structure, and a plurality of dividing grooves are formed in the laminated structure, penetrating both opposing or adjacent sides of the first transparent conductive layer 10. The plurality of dividing grooves located in the first transparent conductive layer 10 are used to divide the entire layer area of ​​the first transparent conductive layer 10 into a plurality of conductive units. The second transparent conductive layer 20 and a second substrate 42 adjacent to the second transparent conductive layer 20 form a single laminated structure, and a plurality of dividing grooves are formed in the laminated structure, penetrating both opposing or adjacent sides of the second transparent conductive layer 20. The plurality of dividing grooves located in the second transparent conductive layer 20 are used to divide the entire layer area of ​​the second transparent conductive layer 20 into a plurality of conductive units. Each conductive unit corresponds to one segment of an electrode sub-line, and two adjacent conductive units are independent of each other.

[0056] Furthermore, the dividing grooves located in the laminate structure including the first transparent conductive layer extend in a direction from the first transparent conductive layer toward the first substrate. The dividing grooves located in the laminate structure including the second transparent conductive layer extend in a direction from the second transparent conductive layer toward the second substrate. The depth of the dividing grooves located in the laminate structure including the transparent conductive layer is equal to or greater than the depth of the transparent conductive layer and equal to or less than the sum of the depth of the transparent conductive layer and half the depth of the substrate. Specifically, the depth h1 of the dividing groove 13 is equal to or less than h10 and equal to or greater than H21. h10 = H21 + 0.5H11. H21 is the thickness of the first transparent conductive layer 10, and H11 is the thickness of the first substrate 41. The depth h2 of the dividing groove 23 is equal to or less than h20 and equal to or greater than H22. h20 = H22 + 0.5H12. H22 is the thickness of the second transparent conductive layer 20, and H12 is the thickness of the second substrate 42. Note that H11 and H12 may or may not be equal. H21 and H22 may or may not be equal. For example, a plurality of dividing grooves 13 are formed in a first laminate structure consisting of a first substrate 41 and a first transparent conductive layer 10 using laser ablation, mechanical cutting, or etching. The dividing grooves 13 ensure that the first transparent conductive layer 10 is completely cut and that the cutting depth of the first substrate 41 is 50% or less of the thickness of the first substrate 41. This ensures that two adjacent first conductive units 51 are isolated from each other by the dividing grooves 13, further ensuring the integrity of the first laminate structure and facilitating subsequent machining processes. The method for forming the dividing grooves 23 is similar to the method for forming the dividing grooves 13.

[0057] The electrochromic device 1 of the present application uses the electrochromic film 100, and has multiple electrode sub-lines formed on at least one edge of each transparent conductive layer, thereby reducing the area of ​​the electrode sub-lines that are damaged and ineffective when openings are formed on at least one edge, improving the uniformity of the electric field within the transparent conductive layer, and thereby ensuring the response speed of the electrochromic device 1 and enabling the electrochromic device 1 to change color quickly and uniformly.

[0058] 10, the present application further provides a method for fabricating the electrochromic device 1. The method includes the following steps:

[0059] Step 101: Provide a first substrate 41 and a second substrate 42.

[0060] In this embodiment, the first substrate 41 and the second substrate 42 have high strength and transparency, and can protect the electrochromic film 100 from external physical damage. The first substrate 41 and the second substrate 42 can be made of a flexible or non-flexible material. The flexible material can be made of a polymer material. The polymer material can include, but is not limited to, polyethylene terephthalate, polycarbonate-based materials, and polyacrylic acid-based materials. The non-flexible material can be glass or an acrylic plate. The materials of the first substrate 41 and the second substrate 42 can be the same or different. The above are merely examples of materials for the first substrate 41 and the second substrate 42 and should not be construed as limiting the first substrate 41 and the second substrate 42.

[0061] Step 102: A first transparent conductive layer 10 is formed on the first substrate 41, and a second transparent conductive layer 20 is formed on the second substrate .

[0062] In this embodiment, the first transparent conductive layer 10 and the second transparent conductive layer 20 have the characteristics of high light transmittance and good conductivity. Exemplarily, the first transparent conductive layer 10 and the second transparent conductive layer 20 may include, but are not limited to, a conductive film containing a material such as indium tin oxide (ITO), a metal oxide, a metal nanowire, or a carbon nanotube. The first transparent conductive layer 10 and the second transparent conductive layer 20 may be made of the same material or different materials.

[0063] Alternatively, in one specific embodiment of the present application, the first transparent conductive layer 10 can be formed on the first substrate 41 by sputtering using a magnetron sputtering method. Furthermore, the first transparent conductive layer can be an ITO layer. The method for forming the second transparent conductive layer 20 is similar to the method for forming the first transparent conductive layer 10.

[0064] In some embodiments, an isolation layer (not shown) is further provided between the substrate and the transparent conductive layer to prevent impurity ions in the substrate from diffusing into the transparent conductive layer and affecting the conductivity of the transparent conductive layer.

[0065] Step 103: Form an electrochromic functional layer 30 between the first transparent conductive layer 10 and the second transparent conductive layer 20.

[0066] Step 104: Form multi-segment electrode sub-lines spaced apart on at least one edge of each of the first transparent conductive layer 10 and the second transparent conductive layer 20.

[0067] The orthogonal projection of the multi-segment electrode sub-lines of the first transparent conductive layer 10 and the orthogonal projection of the multi-segment electrode sub-lines of the second transparent conductive layer 20 onto the plane on which the first transparent conductive layer 10 or the second transparent conductive layer 20 is located have at least an overlapping portion. This can be understood as follows: The orthogonal projection of the multi-segment first electrode sub-lines 11 of the first transparent conductive layer 10 onto a predetermined plane and the orthogonal projection of the multi-segment second electrode sub-lines 21 of the second transparent conductive layer 20 onto the predetermined plane do not completely overlap. The predetermined plane is the plane on which the first transparent conductive layer 10 or the second transparent conductive layer 20 is located. Preferably, the orthogonal projection of the multi-segment electrode sub-lines of the first transparent conductive layer 10 and the orthogonal projection of the multi-segment electrode sub-lines of the second transparent conductive layer 20 onto the plane on which the first transparent conductive layer 10 or the second transparent conductive layer 20 is located do not have an overlapping portion.

[0068] It should be noted that the present application does not limit the order of steps 103 and 104. In some embodiments, step 104 may be performed first, and then step 103 may be performed.

[0069] For example, methods for forming the multi-segment electrode sub-lines may include, but are not limited to, applying copper foil and / or silver paste, attaching a metal sheet, or attaching a flexible printed wiring board. In some embodiments, the material of the electrode sub-lines is preferably a transparent material. Examples of the material of the electrode sub-lines may include, but are not limited to, a silver nanowire conductive film, a carbon nanotube transparent conductive film, or a graphene transparent conductive film.

[0070] In the electrochromic device 1 fabricated by the method of the present application, multi-segment electrode sub-lines are provided on at least one edge of each transparent conductive layer, thereby minimizing the area of ​​the electrode sub-lines that are damaged and ineffective when openings are provided on at least one edge, reducing the impact of voltage drops on the uniformity and response speed of the color change, and ensuring a fast and uniform color change of the electrochromic device 1 after the openings are provided.

[0071] 11, the present application further provides another method for fabricating the electrochromic device 1. The method includes the following steps:

[0072] Step 101: Provide a first substrate 41 and a second substrate 42.

[0073] Step 102: A first transparent conductive layer 10 is formed on the first substrate 41, and a second transparent conductive layer 20 is formed on the second substrate .

[0074] Step 1021: A plurality of dividing grooves 13 are formed in the first transparent conductive layer 10, penetrating both opposing sides or both adjacent sides of the first transparent conductive layer 10, so that the entire layer area of ​​the first transparent conductive layer 10 is divided into a plurality of first conductive units 51 by the plurality of dividing grooves 13. A plurality of dividing grooves 23 are formed in the second transparent conductive layer 20, penetrating both opposing sides or both adjacent sides of the second transparent conductive layer 20, so that the entire layer area of ​​the second transparent conductive layer 20 is divided into a plurality of second conductive units 52 by the plurality of dividing grooves 23.

[0075] Specifically, the first substrate 41 and the first transparent conductive layer 10 constitute a first laminate structure, and the second substrate 42 and the second transparent conductive layer 20 constitute a second laminate structure. Exemplarily, in some embodiments, in the first laminate structure and the second laminate structure, a plurality of dividing grooves can be formed in the first transparent conductive layer 10 and the second transparent conductive layer 20 using a method such as laser ablation, mechanical cutting, or etching.

[0076] In addition, each dividing groove penetrating both opposing or adjacent sides of the transparent conductive layer means that the dividing groove divides the transparent conductive layer in the depth direction and extends from one side of the transparent conductive layer to another opposing or adjacent side in the extension direction, thereby completely separating the transparent conductive layer.

[0077] In this embodiment, the depth of each dividing groove located in the first laminate structure including the first transparent conductive layer is equal to or greater than the depth of the first transparent conductive layer and equal to or less than the sum of the depth of the first transparent conductive layer and half the depth of the first substrate. The depth of each dividing groove located in the second laminate structure including the second transparent conductive layer is equal to or greater than the depth of the second transparent conductive layer and equal to or less than the sum of the depth of the second transparent conductive layer and half the depth of the second substrate. This ensures that two adjacent conductive units in the same transparent conductive layer are isolated from each other by the dividing groove, further ensuring the integrity of the laminate structure and facilitating subsequent machining processes.

[0078] Step 103: Form an electrochromic functional layer 30 between the first transparent conductive layer 10 and the second transparent conductive layer 20.

[0079] As can be seen, after forming multiple dividing grooves, an electrochromic functional layer is formed, and some of the material of the electrochromic functional layer is filled into the dividing grooves, thereby reducing the visibility of the dividing grooves and improving the visual experience of the user.

[0080] Step 104: Form multi-segment electrode sub-lines spaced apart on at least one edge of each of the first transparent conductive layer 10 and the second transparent conductive layer 20.

[0081] In this embodiment, step 104 specifically includes the following steps:

[0082] Electrode sub-lines are formed on the edge of one side of the first conductive unit, so that the electrode sub-lines substantially cover the edge of the side of the first conductive unit on which the electrode sub-lines are located. Electrode sub-lines are formed on the edge of one side of the second conductive unit, so that the electrode sub-lines substantially cover the edge of the side of the second conductive unit on which the electrode sub-lines are located.

[0083] Obviously, each conductive unit corresponds to one segment of electrode sub-lines. The electrode sub-lines of each segment approximately fill the edge of the side of the conductive unit on which the electrode sub-lines are located. Therefore, the length of each segment of electrode sub-lines is determined according to the length of the side of the conductive unit on which the electrode sub-lines are located. Preferably, the length of each segment of electrode sub-lines is equal to or less than the length of the side of the conductive unit on which the electrode sub-lines are located.

[0084] The electrode sub-lines are arranged along the edges of the conductive unit where the electrode sub-lines are located, so that when an external power source is applied, the operating current can be conducted uniformly over the entire area of ​​the conductive unit.

[0085] It should be noted that the order of step 1021 and step 104 is not limited in the present application. In some embodiments, step 104 can be performed first, and then step 1021 can be performed. In this way, by first forming multiple-segment electrode sub-lines and then forming multiple dividing grooves, it is possible to ensure that two adjacent conductive units are completely separated by the dividing grooves, avoiding a situation in which one segment of an electrode sub-line straddles two conductive units, and ultimately making it possible to avoid repeated processing.

[0086] In some embodiments, the multiple-segment electrode sub-lines in each transparent conductive layer are provided along the edge of one side of the transparent conductive layer. Steps 1021 and 104 can be performed in conjunction with step 104'. Step 104' specifically includes the following: forming a first electrode line along the edge of a first side of the first transparent conductive layer 10, the first electrode line substantially following the edge of the first side; and then forming a plurality of dividing grooves 13 that penetrate the first side and the side opposite or adjacent to the first side. The dividing grooves 13 divide the entire layer area of ​​the first transparent conductive layer 10 into a plurality of first conductive units 51. The dividing grooves 13 divide the first electrode line into a plurality of first electrode sub-lines 11. Each first conductive unit 51 corresponds to one segment of the first electrode sub-line 11. A second electrode line is formed along the edge of the second side of the second transparent conductive layer 20, substantially following the edge of the second side. Next, a plurality of dividing grooves 23 are formed, penetrating the second side and the side opposite or adjacent to the second side. The plurality of dividing grooves 23 divide the entire layer area of ​​the second transparent conductive layer 20 into a plurality of second conductive units 52. The plurality of dividing grooves 23 also divide the second electrode line into a plurality of second electrode sub-lines 21. Each second conductive unit 52 corresponds to one segment of the second electrode sub-line 21. In this way, by forming a plurality of dividing grooves and simultaneously cutting the corresponding electrode line to form a plurality of electrode sub-lines, each conductive unit corresponds to one segment of the electrode sub-line, simplifying the work process and improving production efficiency.

[0087] Step 105: Apply the multi-layer stack of the electrochromic device 1 to the edge of the electrochromic device 1. Electrochromic device 1 At least one opening 163 is provided through the depth.

[0088] The multilayer stack of the electrochromic device includes a first substrate 41, a first transparent conductive layer 10, an electrochromic functional layer 30, a second transparent conductive layer 20, and a second substrate .

[0089] When the electrochromic device 1 is applied to electrochromic glass with a large segment height, it is necessary to provide an opening 163 at the edge of the electrochromic device 1 before laminating the electrochromic device 1 onto the finish glass to improve the fit and reduce wrinkles. Preferably, the opening 163 is located in the openable area 40 at the edge of the electrochromic device 1. This can ensure that the electrode sub-lines of multiple segments are not cut.

[0090] Illustratively, openings 163 may be formed using methods such as laser ablation, mechanical cutting, or etching.

[0091] Step 106: Form the first bus lines 14 and the second bus lines 24. The first electrode sub-lines 11 of each segment provided on the first transparent conductive layer 10 are electrically connected to the first bus lines 14, and the second electrode sub-lines 21 of each segment provided on the second transparent conductive layer 20 are electrically connected to the second bus lines 24.

[0092] For example, the electrode sub-lines in each transparent conductive layer can be directly electrically connected to the corresponding bus lines. In some embodiments, the method for fabricating the electrochromic device 1 further includes forming a multi-segment lead wire electrically connected to the multi-segment electrode sub-lines in a one-to-one relationship, and the electrode sub-line of each segment is electrically connected to the corresponding bus line via the lead wire connected to the electrode sub-line.

[0093] The first bus line 14 and the second bus line 24 are used to input an external power source, and as can be understood, when inputting an external power source, the first bus line 14 can ensure an equipotential for the first electrode sub-lines 11 of each segment provided on the first transparent conductive layer 10. The second bus line 24 can ensure an equipotential for the second electrode sub-lines 21 of each segment provided on the second transparent conductive layer 20.

[0094] For the specific technical content of the above steps 101 to 104, reference can be made to the related technical content in the embodiment shown in FIG. 10, and a detailed description will not be given here.

[0095] This embodiment differs from the embodiment shown in FIG. 10 in the following respects. dividing groove By forming the openings 163 at the edge of the electrochromic device 1, only the electrode sub-lines in the conductive unit where the openings 163 are located are cut, so that the range affected by the openings 163 can be reduced to the conductive unit where the openings 163 are located, and the conduction effect of the operating current in other complete conductive units can be ensured not to be affected.

[0096] 12, the present application further provides another method for fabricating the electrochromic device 1. The method includes the following steps:

[0097] Step 101: Provide a first substrate 41 and a second substrate 42.

[0098] Step 102: A first transparent conductive layer 10 is formed on the first substrate 41, and a second transparent conductive layer 20 is formed on the second substrate .

[0099] Step 103: Form an electrochromic functional layer 30 between the first transparent conductive layer 10 and the second transparent conductive layer 20.

[0100] Step 104: Form multi-segment electrode sub-lines spaced apart on at least one edge of each of the first transparent conductive layer 10 and the second transparent conductive layer 20.

[0101] Step 1041: A plurality of dividing grooves 13 are formed in the first transparent conductive layer 10, penetrating both opposing sides or both adjacent sides of the first transparent conductive layer 10, so that the entire layer area of ​​the first transparent conductive layer 10 is divided into a plurality of first conductive units 51 by the plurality of dividing grooves 13. A plurality of dividing grooves 23 are formed in the second transparent conductive layer 20, penetrating both opposing sides or both adjacent sides of the second transparent conductive layer 20, so that the plurality of dividing grooves 23 divide the entire layer area of ​​the second transparent conductive layer 20 into a plurality of second conductive units 52.

[0102] The multiple dividing grooves in this embodiment are formed in a multilayer laminate including a first substrate 41, a first transparent conductive layer 10, an electrochromic functional layer 30, a second transparent conductive layer 20, and a second substrate 42. Illustratively, the multiple dividing grooves can be formed on the side surface of the transparent conductive layer (for example, a surface parallel to the OZ direction in FIG. 4a) by a laser ablation method.

[0103] Step 105: Apply the multi-layer stack of the electrochromic device 1 to the edge of the electrochromic device 1. Electrochromic device 1 At least one opening 163 is provided through the depth.

[0104] Note that, for the specific technical content of steps 101 to 105 in this embodiment, the related technical content in the embodiment shown in FIG. 11 can be referred to, and will not be described in detail here.

[0105] 11 in the following respects. In this embodiment, the process of forming the plurality of dividing grooves and the process of forming at least one opening 163 are similar, so after performing step 104, the process of forming the plurality of dividing grooves and the process of forming at least one opening 163 can be performed together. In this way, the operation becomes easier and the processing efficiency can be improved.

[0106] 13 , the present application further provides an electrochromic glass 2. The electrochromic glass 2 includes a first glass layer 3, a second glass layer 4, and the electrochromic device 1. The electrochromic device 1 is disposed between the first glass layer 3 and the second glass layer 4. The first glass layer 3 faces a first substrate 41, and the second glass layer 4 faces a second substrate 42.

[0107] As can be understood, Figure 13 is merely an example of the electrochromic glass 2 and is not intended to limit the electrochromic glass 2. The electrochromic glass 2 may include more "layers" than those shown, such as an adhesive layer positioned between the substrate and the glass layer, but is not limited thereto.

[0108] The present application further provides a vehicle equipped with the electrochromic glass 2 described above.

[0109] Although the embodiments of the present application have been shown and described, those skilled in the art will understand that various changes, modifications, substitutions, and variations can be made to the above embodiments without departing from the principles and spirit of the present application, and the scope of the present application is limited by the claims and their equivalents. [Explanation of symbols]

[0110] 1...Electrochromic device 100, 100'... Electrochromic film 120...electrode wire 163…Aperture 10...First transparent conductive layer 20...Second transparent conductive layer 30...Electrochromic functional layer 11, 21...electrode sub-lines 12, 22...Exit wiring 13, 23...Dividing groove 40...Openable area 51...First conductive unit 52...Second conductive unit 14...First bus line 24...Second bus wiring 41...First substrate 42...Second board 200…External power supply 101~106, 1021, 1041...steps 2...Electrochromic glass 3...First glass layer 4...Second glass layer

Claims

1. An electrochromic film, a first transparent conductive layer, a second transparent conductive layer, and an electrochromic functional layer; a plurality of segments of electrode sub-lines are provided at intervals along an edge of at least one side of the first transparent conductive layer, and a plurality of segments of electrode sub-lines are provided at intervals along an edge of at least one side of the second transparent conductive layer, and an orthogonal projection of the plurality of segments of electrode sub-lines of the first transparent conductive layer and an orthogonal projection of the plurality of segments of electrode sub-lines of the second transparent conductive layer onto a surface of the first transparent conductive layer facing the second transparent conductive layer or onto a surface of the second transparent conductive layer facing the first transparent conductive layer have at least an overlapping portion; the electrochromic functional layer is provided between the first transparent conductive layer and the second transparent conductive layer, and the extension direction of the electrode sub-line of each segment is parallel to a surface of the first transparent conductive layer facing the second transparent conductive layer or a surface of the second transparent conductive layer facing the first transparent conductive layer, which corresponds to the electrode sub-line of each segment; the electrode sub-lines of the plurality of segments in the first transparent conductive layer are provided on edges of a set of opposing sides of the first transparent conductive layer, the electrode sub-lines of the plurality of segments in the second transparent conductive layer are provided on edges of a set of opposing sides of the second transparent conductive layer, the electrode sub-lines on the same side are provided at intervals from each other, and the electrode sub-lines on one side of the set of opposing sides and the electrode sub-lines on the other side of the set of opposing sides are provided alternately; Electrochromic film characterized by:

2. a plurality of dividing grooves are formed in the first transparent conductive layer, penetrating both opposing sides or both adjacent sides of the first transparent conductive layer, and the plurality of dividing grooves formed in the first transparent conductive layer are used to divide the entire layer area of ​​the first transparent conductive layer into a plurality of conductive units; a plurality of dividing grooves are formed in the second transparent conductive layer, penetrating both opposing sides or both adjacent sides of the second transparent conductive layer, and the plurality of dividing grooves formed in the second transparent conductive layer are used to divide the entire layer area of ​​the second transparent conductive layer into a plurality of conductive units, each of the conductive units corresponds to one segment of the electrode sub-line, and two adjacent conductive units are independent of each other by the dividing groove; 2. The electrochromic film according to claim 1.

3. a first set of opposing sides of the first transparent conductive layer are provided with multi-segment electrode sub-lines at edges thereof, a second set of opposing sides of the second transparent conductive layer are provided with multi-segment electrode sub-lines at edges thereof, and an orthogonal projection of the opposing sides of the second set onto a plane in which the first transparent conductive layer is located overlaps with the opposing sides of the first set; 2. The electrochromic film according to claim 1.

4. the multi-segment electrode sub-lines are provided on edges of a first set of opposing sides of the first transparent conductive layer, and the multi-segment electrode sub-lines are provided on edges of a second set of opposing sides of the second transparent conductive layer, and orthogonal projections of the opposing sides of the second set onto a plane in which the first transparent conductive layer is located intersect the opposing sides of the first set; 2. The electrochromic film according to claim 1.

5. The width of each of the plurality of dividing grooves is 5 μm to 200 μm.

3. The electrochromic film according to claim 2.

6. the plurality of dividing grooves in the first transparent conductive layer are substantially parallel to or intersect with one another, and the plurality of dividing grooves in the second transparent conductive layer are substantially parallel to or intersect with one another; 3. The electrochromic film according to claim 2.

7. 1. An electrochromic device comprising: A device comprising a first substrate, a second substrate, and the electrochromic film according to any one of claims 1 to 6, the electrochromic film is provided between the first substrate and the second substrate, the first substrate facing the first transparent conductive layer, and the second substrate facing the second transparent conductive layer; Electrochromic device characterized by:

8. the first transparent conductive layer and the first substrate adjacent to the first transparent conductive layer constitute one laminated structure, and a plurality of dividing grooves are formed in the laminated structure, penetrating both opposing sides or both adjacent sides of the first transparent conductive layer included in the laminated structure, and the plurality of dividing grooves located in the first transparent conductive layer are used to divide the entire layer region of the first transparent conductive layer into a plurality of conductive units, the second transparent conductive layer and the second substrate adjacent to the second transparent conductive layer constitute one laminated structure, and a plurality of dividing grooves penetrating both opposing sides or both adjacent sides of the second transparent conductive layer included in the laminated structure are formed in the laminated structure, and the plurality of dividing grooves located in the second transparent conductive layer are used to divide the entire layer region of the second transparent conductive layer into a plurality of conductive units, Each conductive unit corresponds to one segment of the electrode sub-line, and two adjacent conductive units are independent of each other.

8. The electrochromic device of claim 7.

9. the division groove located in the laminated structure including the first transparent conductive layer extends in a direction from the first transparent conductive layer toward the first substrate, and the depth of the division groove located in the laminated structure including the first transparent conductive layer is equal to or greater than the depth of the first transparent conductive layer and is equal to or less than the sum of the depth of the first transparent conductive layer and half the depth of the first substrate, the division groove located in the laminated structure including the second transparent conductive layer extends in a direction from the second transparent conductive layer toward the second substrate, and the depth of the division groove located in the laminated structure including the second transparent conductive layer is equal to or greater than the depth of the second transparent conductive layer and is equal to or less than the sum of the depth of the second transparent conductive layer and half the depth of the second substrate; 9. The electrochromic device of claim 8.

10. 1. A method of making an electrochromic device, comprising: Step a) of providing a first substrate and a second substrate; Step b: forming a first transparent conductive layer on the first substrate and a second transparent conductive layer on the second substrate; Step c) forming an electrochromic functional layer disposed between the first transparent conductive layer and the second transparent conductive layer; a step d) of forming electrode sub-lines of a plurality of segments spaced apart along an edge of at least one side of the first transparent conductive layer, and forming electrode sub-lines of a plurality of segments spaced apart along an edge of at least one side of the second transparent conductive layer, wherein an orthogonal projection of the electrode sub-lines of the plurality of segments of the first transparent conductive layer and an orthogonal projection of the electrode sub-lines of the plurality of segments of the second transparent conductive layer onto a surface of the first transparent conductive layer facing the second transparent conductive layer or a surface of the second transparent conductive layer facing the first transparent conductive layer have at least an overlapping portion, and an extension direction of the electrode sub-lines of each segment is set to a value corresponding to the extension direction of the electrode sub-lines of each segment. and step d) the electrode sub-lines are parallel to a surface of the first transparent conductive layer facing the second transparent conductive layer or a surface of the second transparent conductive layer facing the first transparent conductive layer, the electrode sub-lines of the first transparent conductive layer being provided on edges of a set of opposing sides of the first transparent conductive layer, the electrode sub-lines of the second transparent conductive layer being provided on edges of a set of opposing sides of the second transparent conductive layer, the electrode sub-lines of the first transparent conductive layer being spaced apart from each other, and the electrode sub-lines of one side of the set of opposing sides and the electrode sub-lines of the other side of the set of opposing sides being staggered, The execution order of steps c and d is as follows: Step c is performed first, and then step d is performed, or performing step d first and then performing step c; 1. A method for producing an electrochromic device comprising:

11. After step b, the method for fabricating the electrochromic device further includes step e, which comprises: forming a plurality of dividing grooves in the first transparent conductive layer, the dividing grooves penetrating both opposing sides or both adjacent sides of the first transparent conductive layer, and dividing the entire layer region of the first transparent conductive layer into a plurality of first conductive units by the plurality of dividing grooves; forming a plurality of dividing grooves in the second transparent conductive layer, the dividing grooves penetrating both opposing sides or both adjacent sides of the second transparent conductive layer, and dividing the entire layer region of the second transparent conductive layer into a plurality of second conductive units by the plurality of dividing grooves; 11. A method for making an electrochromic device according to claim 10.

12. The execution order of steps c, d, and e is as follows: First, execute step e, then execute step c, and finally execute step d; First, execute step e, then execute step d, and finally execute step c; First, execute step c, then execute step d, and finally execute step e; First, perform step c, then perform step e, and finally perform step d, or performing step c first, and then performing step d and step e together; 12. A method for making an electrochromic device according to claim 11.

13. the first substrate and the first transparent conductive layer constitute a first laminated structure, and the second substrate and the second transparent conductive layer constitute a second laminated structure; a depth of each of the division grooves located in the first laminated structure including the first transparent conductive layer is equal to or greater than a depth of the first transparent conductive layer and is equal to or less than a sum of a depth of the first transparent conductive layer and half a depth of the first substrate; a depth of each of the division grooves located in the second laminated structure including the second transparent conductive layer is equal to or greater than a depth of the second transparent conductive layer and is equal to or less than a sum of a depth of the second transparent conductive layer and half a depth of the second substrate; 12. A method for making an electrochromic device according to claim 11.

14. Step e is executed before step d, and step d is executed by: forming the electrode sub-lines on an edge of one side of the first conductive unit, the electrode sub-lines substantially covering the edge of the side of the first conductive unit on which the electrode sub-lines are located; forming the electrode sub-lines on an edge of one side of the second conductive unit, the electrode sub-lines substantially covering the edge of the side of the second conductive unit on which the electrode sub-lines are located; 13. A method for making an electrochromic device according to claim 12.

15. The method for fabricating the electrochromic device further includes step f, wherein step f comprises: providing at least one opening at an edge of the electrochromic device that penetrates the multi-layer stack of the electrochromic device in a depth direction of the electrochromic device; the multilayer stack of the electrochromic device includes the first substrate, the first transparent conductive layer, the electrochromic functional layer, the second transparent conductive layer, and the second substrate; 12. A method for making an electrochromic device according to claim 11.

16. Electrochromic glass, a first glass layer, a second glass layer, and the electrochromic device of claim 7; the electrochromic device is disposed between the first glass layer and the second glass layer, the first glass layer facing the first substrate and the second glass layer facing the second substrate; Electrochromic glass characterized by:

17. 17. The electrochromic glass of claim 16, A vehicle characterized by:

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