Electronic Dimming Device

Abstract

To provide an electronic light-adjusting device having a refresh function for eliminating or alleviating uneven color development. [Solution] The electronic dimming device of the present invention comprises an electrochromic element that is optically transparent, whose transmittance decreases when a voltage is applied between its terminals, and which maintains the decreased transmittance state by electrically disconnecting the terminals, and a voltage application unit that has the function of applying a voltage between the terminals and the function of electrically disconnecting the terminals, and the voltage application unit performs a voltage application operation so that the transmittance is between 5% and 50%, and then performs a refresh operation in which an opening operation is performed so that the transmittance remains within the range of between 5% and 50% for 5 minutes or more.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to electronic dimming devices. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses an electrochromic element having a pair of substrates and an electrochromic medium disposed between them. When a voltage is applied to the electrodes provided on the pair of substrates, the transmittance of the compound in the electrochromic medium changes. This allows the amount of light passing through the electrochromic element to be adjusted. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2017-167317 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In such electrochromic elements, deterioration over time can cause areas that do not produce color (color unevenness). When such color unevenness occurs, the quality of the electrochromic element deteriorates. For this reason, devices equipped with electrochromic elements are required to reduce or eliminate color unevenness.

[0005] An object of the present invention is to provide an electronic light control device having a refresh function that eliminates or reduces color unevenness. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] These objects can be achieved by the present invention as set forth in (1) to (8) below. (1) An electrochromic element that is optically transparent, whose transmittance decreases when a voltage is applied between terminals, and that maintains the decreased transmittance when the terminals are electrically disconnected; a voltage application unit having a function of applying a voltage between the terminals and a function of electrically disconnecting the terminals; Equipped with The electronic dimming device is characterized in that the voltage application unit performs a voltage application operation so that the transmittance is 5% or more and 50% or less, and then performs a refresh operation to perform an opening operation so that the transmittance remains within the range of 5% or more and 50% or less for 5 minutes or more.

[0007] (2) The electronic light control device according to (1), wherein the voltage application unit performs the opening operation so that the transmittance remains within a range of 5% to 30% for 15 minutes or more.

[0008] (3) The voltage application unit has a secondary battery, The electronic light control device according to (1) or (2), wherein the voltage application unit performs the refresh operation during a charging period in which the secondary battery is being charged.

[0009] (4) A voltage measuring unit is provided to measure an open circuit voltage between the terminals of the electrochromic element, When the maximum value of the voltage applied between the terminals during the voltage application operation is Ve, The electronic dimming device according to any one of (1) to (3) above, wherein the voltage application unit performs the open circuit operation so that the open circuit voltage measured by the voltage measurement unit falls within a range of 0.1 Ve or more and less than 1.0 Ve.

[0010] (5) When the open-circuit voltage immediately after the voltage application unit switches from the voltage application operation to the open-circuit operation is Vo, The electronic dimming device according to (4) above, wherein the voltage application unit performs the open operation so that the open circuit voltage measured by the voltage measurement unit falls within a range of 0.8 Vo or more and 1.2 Vo or less.

[0011] (6) The electronic light control device according to any one of (1) to (5) above, wherein the voltage application unit repeatedly performs the refresh operation at predetermined time intervals.

[0012] (7) An electronic dimming device according to any one of (1) to (6) above, wherein the voltage application unit changes at least one of the range of the transmittance when performing the opening operation and the time during which the transmittance is within the range when performing the opening operation, depending on the accumulated driving time.

[0013] (8) The electronic light control device according to any one of (1) to (7) above, which is used as glasses. [Effects of the Invention]

[0014] According to the present invention, an electronic light control device having a refresh function that eliminates or reduces color unevenness can be obtained. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0015] [Figure 1] 1 is a perspective view showing sunglasses to which an electronic light adjusting device according to an embodiment is applied. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a first lens shown in FIG. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the first lens shown in FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a partially enlarged view of the EC function unit shown in FIG. 3. [Figure 5] FIG. 2 is a functional block diagram of a control unit shown in FIG. [Figure 6] 4 is a graph showing an example of a change in voltage applied between terminals during operation of the first electrochromic element. [Figure 7] 7 is a graph showing the change in transmittance of the first electrochromic element when the voltages shown in FIG. 6 are applied. [Figure 8] 10 is a photograph showing an example of a color loss portion that occurred in the first electrochromic element. [Figure 9]9 is a photograph showing the state after a refresh operation has been performed on the first electrochromic element shown in FIG. 8. [Figure 10] 4 is a graph showing an example of a change in voltage applied between terminals during operation of the first electrochromic element. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a functional block diagram of sunglasses to which an electronic light adjusting device according to a second modified example is applied. [Figure 12] FIG. 11 is a functional block diagram of sunglasses to which an electronic light adjusting device according to a third modified example is applied. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0016] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS An electronic light control device according to the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to preferred embodiments shown in the accompanying drawings.

[0017] 1. Configuration of electronic dimming device FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing sunglasses 100 to which an electronic light adjusting device according to an embodiment is applied.

[0018] The sunglasses 100 shown in Fig. 1 include a frame 20, a first lens 31, a second lens 32, and a control unit 40. In the following description, when the sunglasses 100 are worn by a user, the user side of the first lens 31 and the second lens 32 is referred to as the "back" and the opposite side is referred to as the "front." In the following description, the term "lens" includes not only optical elements that have the function of focusing or diverging light, but also optical elements that simply have the function of transmitting light.

[0019] Frame The frame 20 shown in FIG. 1 has two rim portions 21, 21, a bridge portion 22, two temple portions 23, 23, and two nose pad portions 24, 24.

[0020] The frame 20 is worn on the user's head, and the first lens 31 and the second lens 32 are positioned near the user's eyes.

[0021] Each rim portion 21 is ring-shaped. A first lens 31 is fitted inside one rim portion 21, and a second lens 32 is fitted inside the other rim portion 21.

[0022] The bridge portion 22 is rod-shaped and connects the rim portions 21 together. Each temple portion 23 is shaped like a temple, with one end connected to each rim portion 21 and the other end being a free end.

[0023] In addition, a control unit 40 is provided on the temple portion 23. The control unit 40 applies voltage to the first lens 31 and the second lens 32 to control their operation.

[0024] The nose pad portion 24 is provided on the edge of each rim portion 21 and is supported on the nose of the user of the sunglasses 100.

[0025] The constituent material of the frame 20 is not particularly limited, but examples thereof include various metal materials, various resin materials, etc. Also, it may be a composite material containing these materials.

[0026] The shape of the frame 20 is not limited to the shape shown in the drawings, as long as it can be worn on the user's head. For example, the rim portion 21 and the temple portion 23 may be omitted. Furthermore, the entire frame 20 may be omitted, and the first lens 31 and the second lens 32 may be used separately.

[0027] The electronic light-adjusting element according to the present invention may be used in eyeglasses other than sunglasses, for example, prescription eyeglasses, fashion eyeglasses, goggles, and the like.

[0028] 1.2. First and second lenses Next, the first lens 31 and the second lens 32 will be described.

[0029] 1, the first lens 31 has a first electrochromic element 1. The second lens 32 has a second electrochromic element 2 that is separate from the first electrochromic element 1. The configurations of the second lens 32 and the second electrochromic element 2 are similar to the configurations of the first lens 31 and the first electrochromic element 1, and therefore will not be described.

[0030] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the first lens 31 shown in FIG. 2 has a first electrochromic element 1 and a resin layer 35 provided on the back surface thereof. The first lens 31 shown in Fig. 2 is produced, for example, by bending the first electrochromic element 1 as necessary, and then injection-molding the resin layer 35 so that it comes into contact with the first electrochromic element 1.

[0031] The first electrochromic element 1 is optically transparent and has the ability to develop color when a voltage is applied. Furthermore, by switching the state of applied voltage, it is possible to reversibly switch between color development and decolorization. The power required to operate the first electrochromic element 1 is supplied from a control unit 40 provided in the temple portion 23. The control unit 40 is also responsible for switching the state of applied voltage.

[0032] For example, when the sunglasses 100 are used, the amount of light (transmittance) passing through the first lens 31 can be controlled by switching the coloring and decoloring of the first electrochromic element 1 or by changing the color density. Applying a voltage to the first electrochromic element 1 to change the color density is called a "voltage application operation."

[0033] Furthermore, after the voltage application operation is completed, the "release operation" refers to electrically releasing the terminals for applying voltage to the first electrochromic element 1. If the first electrochromic element 1 has a memory effect, the color density is maintained by the release operation performed after the voltage application operation.

[0034] Furthermore, electrically shorting the terminals is called a “short-circuit operation.” When a short-circuit operation is performed on the first electrochromic element 1 in the holding period, the color density decreases and the element is decolorized.

[0035] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the first lens 31 shown in FIG. The first electrochromic element 1 shown in Figure 3 includes a first substrate 11, a second substrate 12, a first electrode 13, a second electrode 14, an EC functional part 60, a sealing part 55, a first auxiliary electrode 15, and a second auxiliary electrode 16.

[0036] 1.2.1. First board The first substrate 11 supports other components such as the EC function section 60. The first substrate 11 also serves as the outermost layer of the first electrochromic element 1, protecting the EC function section 60 and the like.

[0037] The material for forming the first substrate 11 is not particularly limited as long as it is a transparent resin material, but a material containing a transparent resin with thermoplastic properties is preferred.

[0038] The transparent resin is not particularly limited, but examples thereof include acrylic resins, polystyrene resins, polyethylene resins, polypropylene resins, polyester resins (such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and polyethylene naphthalate (PEN)), polycarbonate resins, polyamide resins, cycloolefin resins, vinyl chloride resins, and polyacetal resins, and a mixture of one or more of these resins is used. Among these, the transparent resin is preferably a polycarbonate resin or a polyamide resin, and more preferably a polycarbonate resin. These resins have excellent transparency (translucency) and mechanical properties, as well as excellent heat resistance and moldability. This can improve the transparency and shape precision of the first substrate 11, as well as the impact resistance and heat resistance of the first substrate 11.

[0039] Furthermore, the polycarbonate resin is preferably an aromatic polycarbonate resin, which has an aromatic ring in the main chain and contributes to improving the mechanical strength of first substrate 11.

[0040] The first substrate 11 may contain various additives such as dyes, pigments, antioxidants, fillers, plasticizers, light stabilizers, ultraviolet absorbers, heat ray absorbers, and flame retardants, as needed.

[0041] The thickness of the first substrate 11 is preferably 0.1 mm to 10.0 mm, more preferably 0.3 mm to 5.0 mm. If the thickness of the first substrate 11 is within this range, the first electrochromic element 1 can be made thin while maintaining its mechanical strength.

[0042] 1.2.2. Second board The second substrate 12 is disposed opposite the first substrate 11 with the EC functional unit 60 interposed therebetween, and supports other components such as the EC functional unit 60. The second substrate 12 also serves as the outermost layer of the first electrochromic element 1, protecting the EC functional unit 60 and the like. In the following description, the space between the first substrate 11 and the second substrate 12 is also referred to as the "inside."

[0043] The material of the second substrate 12 is not particularly limited as long as it is a transparent material, but a material containing a transparent resin with thermoplasticity is preferable. The transparent resin is the same as the material of the first substrate 11.

[0044] The thickness of the second substrate 12 may be the same as the thickness of the first substrate 11, or may be different.

[0045] The thickness of the second substrate 12 is preferably 0.1 mm to 10.0 mm, more preferably 0.3 mm to 5.0 mm. If the thickness of the second substrate 12 is within this range, the first electrochromic element 1 can be made thin while maintaining its mechanical strength.

[0046] 1.2.3.First transparent electrode The first electrode 13 is disposed between the first substrate 11 and the EC functional unit 60. The first electrode 13 is optically transparent, which allows the color of the EC functional unit 60 and the outside world to be visually recognized through the first electrode 13.

[0047] Furthermore, the first electrode 13 is conductive and electrically connected to the control unit 40 via terminals and wiring (not shown). This enables the control unit 40 to control the potential of the first electrode 13 and perform voltage application, opening, and short-circuiting operations.

[0048] The material for the first electrode 13 is not particularly limited as long as it is a conductive material with optical transparency, but examples include oxides such as ITO (indium tin oxide), FTO (F-doped tin oxide), ATO (antimony tin oxide), IZO (indium zinc oxide), In2O3, SnO2, Sb-containing SnO2, and Al-containing ZnO, as well as Au, Pt, Ag, Cu, and alloys containing these, and one or more of these can be used in combination. These inorganic materials have excellent conductivity and water vapor blocking properties.

[0049] The thickness of first electrode 13 is set appropriately depending on the required electrical conductivity and water vapor shielding rate, but is preferably about 50 nm to 200 nm, more preferably about 100 nm to 150 nm, which allows first electrode 13 to have sufficient electrical conductivity and water vapor shielding rate.

[0050] 1.2.4.Second electrode The second electrode 14 is disposed between the second substrate 12 and the EC functional unit 60. The second electrode 14 is optically transparent, which allows the color of the EC functional unit 60 and the outside world to be visually recognized through the second electrode 14.

[0051] In addition, second electrode 14 is conductive and is electrically connected to control unit 40 via terminals and wiring (not shown). This allows control unit 40 to control the potential of second electrode 14 and perform voltage application, opening, and short-circuiting operations.

[0052] The material for the second electrode 14 is not particularly limited as long as it is a light-transmitting conductive material, and may be any of the materials listed above as the materials for the first electrode 13. These are inorganic materials, and therefore have excellent electrical conductivity and water vapor blocking properties.

[0053] The thickness of second electrode 14 is set appropriately depending on the required electrical conductivity and water vapor shielding rate, but is preferably about 50 nm to 200 nm, more preferably about 100 nm to 150 nm, which allows second electrode 14 to have sufficient electrical conductivity and water vapor shielding rate.

[0054] 1.2.5.1st auxiliary electrode The first auxiliary electrode 15 is electrically connected to the first electrode 13 that extends to the outside of the colored region 70 .

[0055] The first auxiliary electrode 15 is made of a material having a higher conductivity than the first electrode 13. This increases the efficiency of controlling the potential of the first electrode 13.

[0056] The material of first auxiliary electrode 15 is not particularly limited as long as it has a higher conductivity than first electrode 13, and examples thereof include silver, aluminum, copper, chromium, and molybdenum, and one or more of these may be used in combination. Also, first auxiliary electrode 15 may be formed of a laminate of two or more layers made of different materials. Examples of methods for forming first auxiliary electrode 15 include sputtering and vacuum deposition. The first auxiliary electrode 15 may be provided as needed, and may be omitted.

[0057] 1.2.6.Second auxiliary electrode The second auxiliary electrode 16 is electrically connected to the second electrode 14 that extends to the outside of the colored region 70 .

[0058] The second auxiliary electrode 16 is made of a material having a higher conductivity than the second electrode 14. This increases the efficiency of controlling the potential of the second electrode 14.

[0059] The material of second auxiliary electrode 16 is not particularly limited as long as it has a higher conductivity than second electrode 14, and examples thereof include silver, aluminum, copper, chromium, and molybdenum, and one or more of these may be used in combination. Second auxiliary electrode 16 may also be formed by a laminate of two or more layers made of different materials. Methods for forming second auxiliary electrode 16 include sputtering and vacuum deposition. The second auxiliary electrode 16 may be provided as needed, and may be omitted.

[0060] 1.2.7.EC Functional Department FIG. 4 is a partially enlarged view of the EC function unit 60 shown in FIG.

[0061] 4 includes a first electrochromic layer 63 laminated on the inside of the first electrode 13, a second electrochromic layer 64 laminated on the inside of the second electrode 14, and an electrolyte layer 65 filled between the first electrochromic layer 63 and the second electrochromic layer 64. The EC functional unit 60 is housed in a colored region 70, which is a space defined by the first electrode 13, the second electrode 14, the sealing portion 55, etc.

[0062] The first electrochromic layer 63 contains a material that develops color through an oxidation reaction. The material that develops color through an oxidation reaction is not particularly limited, but examples thereof include polymers obtained by polymerizing a composition containing a radically polymerizable compound having triarylamine, triarylamine derivatives such as triphenylamine, bisacridan compounds, Prussian blue complexes, benzidine, nickel oxide, and the like, and one or more of these may be used in combination.

[0063] An example of a Prussian blue-type complex is a material made of Fe(III)4[Fe(II)(CN)6]3.

[0064] Among these, a polymer obtained by polymerizing a composition containing a radically polymerizable compound having triarylamine is particularly preferably used, since it can be operated at a constant voltage, has excellent durability against repeated use, and can provide an electrochromic element with high contrast.

[0065] The composition containing the radical polymerizable compound having a triarylamine may contain a radical polymerizable compound other than the radical polymerizable compound having a triarylamine, and a polymer obtained by polymerizing such a composition may be composed of a crosslinked product in which these radical polymerizable compounds are crosslinked.

[0066] The thickness of the first electrochromic layer 63 is not particularly limited, but is preferably about 0.1 μm or more and 30.0 μm or less, and more preferably about 0.4 μm or more and 10.0 μm or less.

[0067] The second electrochromic layer 64 contains a material that develops color through a reduction reaction. The material that develops color through a reduction reaction is not particularly limited, but examples thereof include inorganic electrochromic compounds, organic electrochromic compounds, conductive polymers, etc., and one or more of these can be used in combination.

[0068] Examples of inorganic electrochromic compounds include tungsten oxide, molybdenum oxide, iridium oxide, and titanium oxide, with tungsten oxide being particularly preferred. Tungsten oxide has a low reduction potential, resulting in a low coloring / fading potential, and is also excellent in durability due to being an inorganic material.

[0069] Examples of organic electrochromic compounds include low molecular weight organic electrochromic compounds such as azobenzenes, anthraquinones, diarylethenes, dihydroprenes, dipyridines, styryls, styrylspiropyrans, spirooxazines, spirothiopyrans, thioindigo, tetrathiafulvalenes, terephthalic acid, triphenylmethanes, triphenylamines, naphthopyrans, viologens, pyrazolines, phenazines, phenylenediamines, phenoxazines, phenothiazines, phthalocyanines, fluorans, fulgides, benzopyrans, and metallocenes. Viologen compounds and dipyridine compounds are particularly preferred. These compounds have low color development / discoloration potentials and good color values.

[0070] Examples of viologen compounds include compounds described in Japanese Patent No. 3955641 and JP-A-2007-171781.

[0071] Examples of dipyridine compounds include compounds described in JP-A Nos. 2007-171781 and 2008-116718.

[0072] Examples of conductive polymers include polypyrrole, polythiophene, polyaniline, and derivatives thereof.

[0073] Furthermore, it is preferable to use a material that develops color in the same tone as the material that develops color in the oxidation reaction described above as a material that develops color in the reduction reaction, which increases the maximum color density and, as a result, improves the contrast during color development.

[0074] On the other hand, when a material that develops color by an oxidation reaction and a material that develops color by a reduction reaction, which have different color tones, are used, it becomes possible to control the color development by mixing colors.

[0075] In addition, either the first electrochromic layer 63 or the second electrochromic layer 64 may be set not to emit color, but by having both emit color, the color density can be increased. This also makes it possible to reduce the voltage applied to the EC function section 60, and suppress deterioration of the first electrochromic element 1 due to repeated voltage application operations.

[0076] The thickness of the second electrochromic layer 64 is not particularly limited, but is preferably about 0.2 μm or more and 5.0 μm or less, and more preferably about 1.0 μm or more and 4.0 μm or less.

[0077] The electrolyte layer 65 is filled between the first electrochromic layer 63 and the second electrochromic layer 64, and contains an electrolyte having ion conductivity.

[0078] The electrolyte is not particularly limited, but examples thereof include inorganic ion salts such as alkali metal salts and alkaline earth metal salts, quaternary ammonium salts, and supporting salts of acids and alkalis. Specific examples include LiClO4, LiBF4, LiAsF6, LiPF6, LiCF3SO3, LiCF3COO, KCl, NaClO3, NaCl, NaBF4, NaSCN, KBF4, Mg(ClO4)2, Mg(BF4)2, etc., and these may be used alone or in combination of two or more.

[0079] Ionic liquids can also be used as the electrolyte material. Among ionic liquids, organic ionic liquids are easy to handle because they remain liquid over a wide temperature range, including room temperature.

[0080] As for the molecular structure of organic ionic liquids, examples of the cationic component include imidazole derivatives such as N,N-dimethylimidazole salt, N,N-methylethylimidazole salt, and N,N-methylpropylimidazole salt; pyridinium derivatives such as N,N-dimethylpyridinium salt and N,N-methylpropylpyridinium salt; and aliphatic quaternary ammonium salts such as trimethylpropylammonium salt, trimethylhexylammonium salt, and triethylhexylammonium salt. Furthermore, in consideration of stability in the atmosphere, it is preferable to use a fluorine-containing compound as the anionic component, such as BF4. - , CF3SO3 - , PF4 - , (CF3SO2)2N - , (SO2F)2N - etc.

[0081] The ionic liquid may be directly dissolved in any of the photopolymerizable monomer, oligomer, and liquid crystal material. If the ionic liquid has poor solubility in these materials, it may be dissolved in a small amount of solvent to obtain a solution, and then this solution may be mixed with any of the photopolymerizable monomer, oligomer, and liquid crystal material to dissolve the ionic liquid.

[0082] Examples of the solvent include propylene carbonate, acetonitrile, γ-butyrolactone, ethylene carbonate, sulfolane, dioxolane, tetrahydrofuran, 2-methyltetrahydrofuran, dimethyl sulfoxide, 1,2-dimethoxyethane, 1,2-ethoxymethoxyethane, polyethylene glycol, alcohols, and the like, or mixed solvents containing two or more of these.

[0083] The electrolyte may be in the form of a low viscosity liquid, a gel, a solid, a polymer cross-linked type, or a liquid crystal dispersion type. Of these, the electrolyte is preferably in the form of a gel or a solid, which can improve the mechanical properties and reliability of the EC functional unit 60.

[0084] A preferred method for solidifying the electrolyte layer 65 is, for example, a method in which a liquid containing an electrolyte and a solvent is retained in a resin. This allows the electrolyte layer 65 to have both high ionic conductivity and solid strength. A preferred resin is, for example, a photocurable resin. This allows the solid electrolyte layer 65 to be obtained at a lower temperature and in a shorter time than when the solid electrolyte layer 65 is obtained by thermal polymerization or solvent evaporation.

[0085] The thickness of the electrolyte layer 65 is not particularly limited, but is preferably set to about 10 μm or more and 100 μm or less, and more preferably about 20 μm or more and 80 μm or less.

[0086] If necessary, the EC function part 60 may have an intermediate layer provided between the first electrode 13 and the second electrode 14. Examples of the intermediate layer include an insulating porous layer and a protective layer.

[0087] In this embodiment, the EC function section 60 has the first electrochromic layer 63 and the second electrochromic layer 64, but either one of these may be omitted.

[0088] 1.2.8.Sealing Parts As shown in Fig. 3, the sealing portion 55 is disposed between the first electrode 13 and the second electrode 14, and defines a colored region 70. In other words, when the first electrode 13 and the second electrode 14 are viewed in plan, the sealing portion 55 is disposed so as to surround the colored region 70. This makes the colored region 70 a closed space within which the EC functional unit 60 can be sealed. Although the first electrode 13 and the second electrode 14 shown in Fig. 3 extend beyond the sealing portion 55 to the outside of the colored region 70, they may be interrupted midway through the sealing portion 55.

[0089] The constituent material of the sealing portion 55 is not particularly limited as long as it is an insulating material having transparency, and examples thereof include resin materials such as acrylic resin and epoxy resin, and inorganic oxides such as silicon oxide (SiO), silicon oxynitride (SiON), and aluminum oxide (AlO).

[0090] The thickness of the sealing portion 55 is adjusted depending on the thickness of the EC function portion 60, and is preferably, for example, about 20 μm to 100 μm, and more preferably about 40 μm to 80 μm.

[0091] 1.3.Control Unit The control unit 40 is provided in the temple portion 23 and controls the operation of each of the first electrochromic element 1 and the second electrochromic element 2.

[0092] FIG. 5 is a functional block diagram of the sunglasses 100 shown in FIG. The control unit 40 provided in the sunglasses 100 shown in FIG. 5 has a voltage measurement unit 42, a voltage determination unit 44, and a voltage application unit 46 as functional units.

[0093] The voltage measurement unit 42 measures the open-circuit voltage of the first electrochromic element 1 and the open-circuit voltage of the second electrochromic element 2. These open-circuit voltages are the voltages (open-circuit voltages) between the first electrode 13 and the second electrode 14 measured when the first electrochromic element 1 and the second electrochromic element 2 are respectively open-circuited.

[0094] The voltage determination unit 44 determines the voltages and application times to be applied to the first electrochromic element 1 and the second electrochromic element 2 in the voltage application operations wk1 and wk4. The voltage determination unit 44 also determines the open voltages and durations in the open operations wk2 and wk5.

[0095] The functions of voltage determination unit 44 are realized by hardware including, for example, a CPU, memory, and an interface. An example of such hardware is a microcomputer. The CPU is a central processing unit. Examples of memory include any non-volatile memory element (ROM), any volatile memory element (RAM), and a removable external memory element. Examples of interfaces include digital input / output ports such as a Universal Serial Bus (USB). The functions of voltage determination unit 44 are realized by the CPU executing a program that is pre-loaded in memory. Note that instead of or in addition to a method in which a CPU executes a program to realize the above functions, a method in which hardware such as an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) or an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) realizes the above functions may be used.

[0096] The voltage application unit 46 has a function of applying a voltage between the terminals of the first electrochromic element 1 (a function of performing a voltage application operation) and a function of electrically disconnecting the terminals (a function of performing a disconnection operation). Similarly, the voltage application unit 46 has a function of applying a voltage between the terminals of the second electrochromic element 2 and a function of electrically disconnecting the terminals.

[0097] The voltage application unit 46 also has a function of performing a refresh operation. The refresh operation refers to performing a voltage application operation so that the transmittance of each of the first electrochromic element 1 and the second electrochromic element 2 is 5% or more and 50% or less, and then performing a release operation so that the transmittance remains within the range of 5% or more and 50% or less for 5 minutes or more.

[0098] By performing such a refresh operation, as will be described later, even if areas with low color density (color loss areas) occur in the first electrochromic element 1 or the second electrochromic element 2 due to initial abnormalities or deterioration over time, the color loss areas can be eliminated or alleviated.

[0099] The voltage and time applied to the first electrochromic element 1 and the voltage and time applied to the second electrochromic element 2 may be the same or different. In addition, one of them may be set so as not to perform a refresh operation.

[0100] The voltage application unit 46 includes, for example, a DC power supply, a voltage converter, and a switch. The DC power supply generates a predetermined DC voltage and may be, for example, a primary battery, a secondary battery, or an external power supply. The voltage converter converts the DC voltage generated by the DC power supply into a target voltage value. The voltage converter may also generate a pulse-width modulated voltage from the DC voltage and change its duty ratio to bring the effective voltage closer to the target value. The switch, in response to a user's operation, controls the operation of the DC power supply and the voltage converter to perform a voltage application operation, an opening operation, a short-circuit operation, a refresh operation, etc.

[0101] 2. Operation of electronic dimming devices Next, we will explain the operation of the first electrochromic element 1 provided in the sunglasses 100 (electronic light control device). Note that the operation of the second electrochromic element 2 is similar to that of the first electrochromic element 1, so explanation will be omitted.

[0102] Fig. 6 is a graph showing an example of the change in voltage applied between the terminals during operation of the first electrochromic element 1. The horizontal axis of Fig. 6 represents time, and the vertical axis represents voltage. Fig. 7 is a graph showing the change in transmittance TR of the first electrochromic element 1 when the voltage shown in Fig. 6 is applied. The horizontal axis of Fig. 7 represents time, and the vertical axis represents transmittance.

[0103] 6 and 7, a normal driving period T7 and a refresh period T8 are illustrated. 6 and 7 refers to a period during which the sunglasses 100 are normally used. In the normal driving period T7 shown in Figures 6 and 7, as an example, a voltage application operation wk1, an opening operation wk2, and a short-circuiting operation wk3 are performed in sequence.

[0104] In the voltage application operation wk1, a voltage is applied to the first electrochromic element 1. This causes charge to be injected into the first electrochromic element 1, increasing the color density. As a result, the transmittance TR gradually decreases, as shown in FIG.

[0105] In the opening operation wk2, the terminals of the first electrochromic element 1 are opened. This maintains the transmittance TR immediately after the end of the voltage application operation wk1 at a substantially constant value due to the memory effect of the first electrochromic element 1. As a result, in the opening operation wk2, the transmittance TR can be maintained without consuming power, allowing the user of the sunglasses 100 to enjoy the light-blocking effect for a long period of time.

[0106] In the short-circuit operation wk3, the terminals of the first electrochromic element 1 are short-circuited. This reduces the color density of the first electrochromic element 1. As a result, the transmittance TR increases, as shown in FIG.

[0107] The above-described voltage application operation wk1, open operation wk2, and short-circuit operation wk3 are the normal operation of the first electrochromic element 1.

[0108] Here, if the first electrochromic element 1 has an initial abnormality or deteriorates over time, the first electrochromic element 1 may have a portion with a locally low color density (color loss portion).

[0109] Fig. 8 is a photograph showing an example of a color loss area 3 that has occurred in the first electrochromic element 1. When a color loss area 3 such as that shown in Fig. 8 occurs, the appearance of the first electrochromic element 1 deteriorates. This raises concerns about a decline in the quality of the sunglasses 100. Furthermore, the color loss area 3 prevents the sunglasses from achieving the intended color density, which reduces usability.

[0110] In view of the above-mentioned problems, the present inventors have discovered the following cause of the occurrence of the color-depleted areas 3. Unintentional pinholes may exist in the first electrode 13 or the second electrode 14. A pinhole is a hole that penetrates the first electrode 13 or the second electrode 14. As the sunglasses 100 are used, moisture may penetrate into the colored area 70 through the pinhole. When moisture penetrates, it is thought that moisture accumulates locally near the pinhole, causing a local increase in the electrical resistance of the first electrode 13 or the second electrode 14 in that area. This is thought to inhibit the injection and extraction of charges into and from the first electrochromic layer 63 and the second electrochromic layer 64, resulting in the occurrence of the color-depleted areas 3.

[0111] Therefore, the inventors have conducted extensive research into methods for suppressing the formation of color-fading areas 3. In this embodiment, the control unit 40 operates as follows to suppress the formation of color-fading areas 3. Furthermore, if color-fading areas 3 do occur, the control unit 40 eliminates or reduces the formation of color-fading areas 3. In the following description, achieving this effect is also referred to as "refreshing."

[0112] The refresh period T8 shown in Figures 6 and 7 is set separately from the normal drive period T7 and is a period for eliminating or alleviating the decolored portion 3. During the refresh period T8 shown in Figures 6 and 7, the voltage application unit 46 sequentially performs a voltage application operation wk4 and an opening operation wk5. Note that in Figures 6 and 7, a short-circuit operation wk6 is performed after these refresh operations.

[0113] During the voltage application operation wk4, a voltage is applied to the first electrochromic element 1. This injects charge into the first electrochromic element 1, increasing the color density. As a result, the transmittance TR gradually decreases, as shown in Figure 7. The transmittance TR at the end of the voltage application operation wk4 is referred to as the "ultimate transmittance Tr4." During the voltage application operation wk4, the applied voltage and time are set so that the ultimate transmittance Tr4 is in the range of 5% to 50%. This range, within which the ultimate transmittance Tr4 should fall, is considered to be a relatively high-density range for color density, regardless of the configuration of the first electrochromic element 1. Therefore, by applying a voltage until the ultimate transmittance Tr4 falls within this range during the voltage application operation wk4, the applied voltage is thought to activate locally accumulated moisture. This allows the moisture to disperse after the release operation wk5, which will be described later. In other words, the voltage application operation wk4 can be considered a preparatory step for achieving sufficient refreshing after the release operation wk5.

[0114] Generally, the higher the voltage, the faster the rate at which the transmittance TR decreases (the rate at which the color density increases). Furthermore, the longer the voltage application time, the lower the transmittance TR. Therefore, the voltage and the voltage application time in the voltage application operation wk4 are appropriately set in consideration of these trends and the configuration of the first electrochromic element 1.

[0115] In the open operation wk5, the terminals of the first electrochromic element 1 are opened. When the terminals are opened, an open voltage remains between the terminals due to the insulating properties of the EC functional section 60. The transmittance TR during the open operation wk5 is defined as the "open transmittance Tr5." In the open operation wk5, the open voltage is set so that the open transmittance Tr5 remains within the range of 5% to 50% for 5 minutes or more, and preferably 10 minutes or more. If the time during which the open transmittance Tr5 remains within this range is defined as the "duration t5," then the duration t5 in the open operation wk5 should be 5 minutes or more.

[0116] In addition, since the open circuit voltage decreases over time depending on the insulating properties of the EC function unit 60, in order to ensure that the duration t5 is 5 minutes or more, the applied voltage in the voltage application operation wk4 may be set higher than the applied voltage in the normal driving period T7, taking into account the rate of decrease in the open circuit voltage.

[0117] It is believed that performing the open-circuit operation wk5 following the voltage-applied operation wk4 allows for relatively easy dispersion of the moisture activated during the voltage-applied operation wk4. Furthermore, the range in which the open-circuit transmittance Tr5 should fall is a relatively high-density range in terms of color density, regardless of the configuration of the first electrochromic element 1. Therefore, it is believed that the open-circuit voltage remaining between the terminals during the open-circuit operation wk5 has a relatively strong dispersing effect on moisture. Furthermore, by maintaining an open-circuit voltage sufficient to maintain a predetermined open-circuit transmittance Tr5 for five minutes or more during the open-circuit operation wk5, moisture can be sufficiently dispersed without consuming power or promoting deterioration of the first electrochromic element 1 due to the application of voltage.

[0118] The above-mentioned effects can reduce the electrical resistance of first electrode 13 and second electrode 14, eliminating or reducing the occurrence of color loss 3. Furthermore, if the occurrence of color loss 3 is at a stage before it occurs, the occurrence of color loss 3 can be suppressed. As a result, sunglasses 100 can be realized that are less likely to cause discomfort to the user due to color loss 3.

[0119] Furthermore, during the open operation wk5, the open voltage is set so that the open transmittance Tr5 remains within a range of 5% to 30% for 15 minutes or more during the open operation wk5. This increases the open voltage remaining between the terminals during the open operation wk5 and extends the time that the open voltage remains in effect. As a result, the color-fading areas 3 can be more reliably eliminated or alleviated. Furthermore, the occurrence of the color-fading areas 3 can be more reliably suppressed.

[0120] The lower limit of the duration t5 is preferably 1 hour or more, more preferably 5 hours or more, and even more preferably 10 hours or more. This allows an appropriate refresh operation to be performed even if the open transmittance Tr5 is set low. As a result, the progression of deterioration of the first electrochromic element 1 due to the refresh operation can be suppressed. On the other hand, the upper limit of the duration t5 is not particularly set, but is preferably 24 hours or less in order to prevent a decrease in the usability of the sunglasses 100.

[0121] Fig. 9 is a photograph showing the state after a refresh operation has been performed on the first electrochromic element 1 shown in Fig. 8. In Fig. 9, the color loss 3 that occurred in the first electrochromic element 1 shown in Fig. 8 has disappeared or been alleviated. Therefore, the refresh operation can prevent deterioration in the quality of the sunglasses 100.

[0122] Furthermore, during the voltage application operation wk4, the maximum value of the voltage applied between the terminals is defined as Ve. At this time, it is preferable that the voltage application unit 46 performs the opening operation wk5 so that the open-circuit transmittance Tr5 and duration t5 satisfy the above-mentioned conditions and the open-circuit voltage measured during the opening operation wk5 is within the range of 0.1 Ve or more and less than 1.0 Ve. This allows the moisture dispersion effect of the opening operation wk5 to be more fully utilized without consuming power or causing deterioration of the first electrochromic element 1 due to the application of voltage. The open-circuit voltage is measured by the voltage measurement unit 42.

[0123] In the example shown in FIG. 6, the maximum voltage Ve is 1.60 V. In this case, it is preferable that the voltage application unit 46 performs the opening operation wk5 so that the open-circuit voltage is equal to or greater than 0.16 V and less than 1.60 V. If the voltage drop in the opening operation wk5 is large and the open-circuit voltage drops below the lower limit during the opening operation wk5, the refreshing effect may be poor. In this case, the opening operation wk5 may be performed again, or the voltage application conditions in the voltage application operation wk4 may be changed as described below.

[0124] The open-circuit voltage immediately after the voltage application unit 46 switches from the voltage application operation wk4 to the release operation wk5 is Vo. "Immediately" refers to the open-circuit voltage 5 seconds after the first electrochromic element 1 is released. At this time, the voltage application unit 46 preferably performs the release operation wk5 so that the open-circuit transmittance Tr5 and duration t5 satisfy the above-mentioned conditions, and the open-circuit voltage is within the range of 0.1 Ve or more but less than 1.0 Ve, and within the range of 0.8 Vo or more and 1.2 Vo or less. This allows for better moisture dispersion by the release operation wk5 without consuming power or causing deterioration of the first electrochromic element 1 due to the application of voltage.

[0125] 6, the open-circuit voltage Vo is 1.25 V. In this case, the voltage application unit 46 preferably performs the open-circuit operation wk5 so that the open-circuit voltage is 1.00 V or more and less than 1.50 V.

[0126] Furthermore, when the duration t5 is set to 5 minutes or more, if the voltage drop becomes significant after 5 minutes, the voltage application unit 46 may apply a voltage between the terminals midway through the duration t5. In this case, the voltage (additional voltage) is preferably set to fall within the range of 0.8 Vo or more and 1.2 Vo or less. This allows the first electrochromic element 1 to be effectively refreshed even in the case of a large voltage drop. The additional voltage may also be applied multiple times. The application time of the additional voltage per application is preferably less than 5 minutes, more preferably less than 3 minutes. This allows the first electrochromic element 1 to be effectively refreshed while minimizing power consumption and the progression of degradation associated with the application of the additional voltage.

[0127] Furthermore, if the voltage application unit 46 has a secondary battery as a DC power source, it is necessary to connect the sunglasses 100 to an external power source and charge the secondary battery. While the secondary battery is charging, the sunglasses 100 is usually not used much.

[0128] Therefore, the voltage application unit 46 may be configured to set a refresh period T8 during a charging period T9 of the secondary battery, as shown in Fig. 6. This makes it possible to avoid a decrease in convenience due to the refresh operation.

[0129] The voltage application unit 46 may also be configured to repeatedly perform the refresh operation at predetermined time intervals. This allows the first electrochromic element 1 to be refreshed before the color loss portion 3 becomes apparent, even if the first electrochromic element 1 deteriorates over time. As a result, the quality of the sunglasses 100 can be maintained in good condition.

[0130] The predetermined time interval may be set appropriately depending on the rate of deterioration over time of the first electrochromic element 1. For example, if the time until the decolorized portion 3 becomes apparent is known in advance, a time interval set according to that time may be stored in the voltage application unit 46. In this case, the time until the decolorized portion 3 becomes apparent may be obtained by a preliminary test.

[0131] The predetermined time interval is not particularly limited, but as an example, it is preferably set to between 1 day and 300 days, and more preferably between 5 days and 100 days.

[0132] The voltage determination unit 44 may also have a function to change at least one of the open transmittance Tr5 and the duration t5 of the open operation wk5 in accordance with various factors. Examples of the various factors include accumulated temperature, continuous driving time, and accumulated driving time. These factors may reduce the effectiveness of the refresh operation. Therefore, the voltage determination unit 44 may be configured to acquire these factors and reflect the acquired results in the conditions for the refresh operation.

[0133] For example, it is preferable that the voltage application unit 46 varies at least one of the range of the open transmittance Tr5 and the duration t5 in the open operation wk5 according to the accumulated drive time. This makes it possible to compensate for the reduction in the effect of the refresh operation by modifying the conditions of the refresh operation, even if the effect of the refresh operation is reduced due to the accumulated drive time.

[0134] 3. First Modification Next, sunglasses 100 to which an electronic light adjusting device according to a first modification is applied will be described.

[0135] Fig. 10 is a graph showing an example of the change in voltage applied between the terminals during operation of the first electrochromic element 1. The horizontal axis of Fig. 10 represents time, and the vertical axis represents voltage.

[0136] The first modified example will be described below, but the following description will focus on the differences from the above embodiment, and a description of similar points will be omitted.

[0137] In the first modified example, the voltage application unit 46 operates in a voltage application operation wk4 in the refresh period T8 so that the voltage applied between the terminals of the first electrochromic element 1 is lower than that in the voltage application operation wk1 in the normal drive period T7.

[0138] 10, the maximum voltage applied between the terminals during voltage application operation wk1 in normal drive period T7 is Ve1, and the maximum voltage applied between the terminals during voltage application operation wk4 in refresh period T8 is Ve2. In this case, the maximum voltage Ve2 is preferably 50% or more and less than 100% of the maximum voltage Ve1, and more preferably 60% or more and 95% or less of the maximum voltage Ve1. By keeping the maximum voltage Ve2 within this range, the first electrochromic element 1 can be effectively refreshed while minimizing power consumption and the progression of degradation due to voltage application.

[0139] When the maximum voltage Ve2 is set low as described above, the rate at which the transmittance TR decreases becomes relatively slow. Therefore, in order to achieve the target transmittance Tr4, the time of the voltage application operation wk4 should be set long.

[0140] 4. Second Modification Next, sunglasses 100 to which an electronic light adjusting device according to a second modification is applied will be described.

[0141] FIG. 11 is a functional block diagram of sunglasses 100 to which an electronic light adjusting device according to the second modification is applied.

[0142] The second modified example will be described below, but the following description will focus on the differences from the above embodiment, and a description of similar points will be omitted.

[0143] The sunglasses 100 according to the second modification further include an input receiving unit 80. Examples of the input receiving unit 80 include a push button, a slide switch, a keyboard, a touch panel, and a microphone. The input receiving unit 80 receives input operations from the user and outputs a control signal that causes the voltage application unit 46 to perform a refresh operation. This allows the refresh operation to be performed when the user visually recognizes the decolored portion 3, thereby minimizing the number of refresh operations performed and the length of time the user feels uncomfortable.

[0144] The input receiving unit 80 may also be a receiver that receives a control signal from an external device. Examples of this receiver include a wireless receiver that supports wireless communication methods such as wireless LAN (Local Area Network) and Bluetooth (registered trademark).

[0145] 5. Third Modification Next, sunglasses 100 to which an electronic light adjusting device according to a third modification is applied will be described.

[0146] FIG. 12 is a functional block diagram of sunglasses 100 to which an electronic light adjusting device according to a third modification is applied.

[0147] The third modified example will be described below, but the following description will focus on the differences from the above embodiment, and a description of similar points will be omitted.

[0148] The sunglasses 100 according to the third modification further include a sensor unit 90. Examples of the sensor unit 90 include an acceleration sensor, an angular velocity sensor, a light sensor, and a temperature sensor.

[0149] The acceleration sensor and angular velocity sensor detect changes in acceleration and angular velocity and output a detection signal to the control unit 40. This allows the voltage application unit 46 to determine whether or not the sunglasses 100 are being used based on the detection signal. As a result, the voltage application unit 46 can execute a refresh operation when the sunglasses 100 are not being used. This makes it possible to avoid a decrease in convenience due to the refresh operation.

[0150] The optical sensor detects changes in illuminance and outputs a detection signal to the control unit 40. This allows the voltage application unit 46 to determine whether the sunglasses 100 are being used based on the detection signal, thereby achieving the same effect as above.

[0151] The temperature sensor detects changes in temperature and outputs a detection signal to the control unit 40. This allows the voltage application unit 46 to determine whether the sunglasses 100 are being used based on the detection signal, thereby achieving the same effect as above.

[0152] 6. Effects of the above embodiment and each of the above modifications Sunglasses 100 to which the electronic light control device according to the embodiment and each of the modified examples is applied include a first electrochromic element 1 and a voltage application unit 46. The first electrochromic element 1 is optically transparent, and its transmittance TR changes depending on the voltage applied between its terminals, and the reduced transmittance TR is maintained by electrically disconnecting the terminals. The voltage application unit 46 has the function of applying a voltage between the terminals and the function of electrically disconnecting the terminals. The voltage application unit 46 performs a voltage application operation wk4 so that the ultimate transmittance Tr4 is between 5% and 50%, and then performs a refresh operation of opening the terminals wk5 so that the open transmittance Tr5 remains within the range of between 5% and 50% for at least 5 minutes.

[0153] With this configuration, the refreshing operation can eliminate or reduce the discolored areas 3 that occur in the sunglasses 100. It can also suppress the occurrence of discolored areas 3. This prevents deterioration in the quality of the sunglasses 100, and makes it possible to realize sunglasses 100 (electronic photochromic device) that are excellent in appearance and usability.

[0154] In the sunglasses 100, it is preferable that the voltage application unit 46 performs the opening operation wk5 so that the open transmittance Tr5 remains within the range of 5% to 30% for 15 minutes or more.

[0155] This configuration increases the open-circuit voltage remaining between the terminals during the opening operation wk5 and extends the time that the open-circuit voltage remains. As a result, the color-fading areas 3 can be more reliably eliminated or reduced. Furthermore, the occurrence of the color-fading areas 3 can be more reliably suppressed.

[0156] In the sunglasses 100, the voltage application unit 46 may have a secondary battery. In this case, the voltage application unit 46 may perform a refresh operation during the charging period T9 in which the secondary battery is being charged.

[0157] With this configuration, it is possible to avoid the decrease in convenience that accompanies the refresh operation.

[0158] The sunglasses 100 may also include a voltage measurement unit 42 that measures the open-circuit voltage between the terminals of the first electrochromic element 1. In this case, when the maximum value of the voltage applied between the terminals when the voltage application operation wk4 is performed is defined as Ve, it is preferable that the voltage application unit 46 performs the opening operation wk5 so that the open-circuit voltage measured by the voltage measurement unit 42 falls within the range of 0.1 Ve or more and less than 1.0 Ve.

[0159] With this configuration, the moisture dispersion effect of the opening operation wk5 can be more fully enjoyed without consuming power or causing deterioration of the first electrochromic element 1 due to the application of voltage, and the sunglasses 100 can be fully refreshed.

[0160] In the sunglasses 100, when the open-circuit voltage immediately after the voltage application unit 46 switches from the voltage application operation wk4 to the open-circuit operation wk5 is Vo, it is preferable that the voltage application unit 46 performs the open-circuit operation wk5 so that the open-circuit voltage measured by the voltage measurement unit 42 falls within the range of 0.8 Vo or more and 1.2 Vo or less.

[0161] With this configuration, the moisture dispersion effect of the opening operation wk5 can be better enjoyed without consuming power or causing deterioration of the first electrochromic element 1 due to the application of voltage, and the sunglasses 100 can be well refreshed.

[0162] In the sunglasses 100, the voltage application section 46 may be configured to repeatedly perform the refresh operation at predetermined time intervals.

[0163] With this configuration, even if the first electrochromic element 1 deteriorates over time, the first electrochromic element 1 can be refreshed before the color loss portion 3 becomes apparent. As a result, the quality of the sunglasses 100 can be maintained in good condition.

[0164] In the sunglasses 100, the voltage application unit 46 may be configured to change at least one of the range of the open transmittance Tr5 when performing the open operation wk5 and the time (duration t5) during which the open transmittance Tr5 remains within the range when performing the open operation wk5, depending on the accumulated driving time.

[0165] According to this configuration, even if the effect of the refresh operation is reduced due to the accumulated drive time, the reduced effect of the refresh operation can be compensated for by modifying the conditions of the refresh operation.

[0166] The electronic light adjusting devices according to the above-described embodiment and the above-described modifications are used as, for example, glasses.

[0167] With this configuration, eyeglasses can be realized that do not cause discomfort to the user due to the colorless portion 3.

[0168] Although the electronic light control device according to the present invention has been described above, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment.

[0169] For example, the electronic dimming device of the present invention may have each part of the above embodiment replaced with any component having a similar function, or may have any component added to the above embodiment. [Explanation of symbols]

[0170] 1. First electrochromic element 2. Second electrochromic element 3. Color loss area 11 First board 12 Second board 13 1st electrode 14 2nd electrode 15 1st auxiliary electrode 16 2nd auxiliary electrode 20 frames 21 Rim 22 Bridge section 23 Temple 24 Nose pad section 31 First lens 32 Second lens 35 Resin layer 40 Control Unit 42 Voltage measurement section 44 Voltage determination unit 46 Voltage application section 55 Sealing part 60 EC function department 63 First electrochromic layer 64 Second electrochromic layer 65 Electrolyte layer 70 colored area 80 Input reception section 90 Sensor section 100 sunglasses T7 Normal driving period T8 Refresh Period T9 Charging Period TR transmittance Tr4 achieved transmittance Transmittance when Tr5 is open Ve maximum value Ve1 maximum value Ve2 maximum value Vo open circuit voltage t5 duration wk1 voltage application operation wk2 open operation wk3 short circuit operation wk4 Voltage application operation wk5 open operation wk6 Short circuit operation

Claims

1. an electrochromic element that is optically transparent, whose transmittance decreases when a voltage is applied between terminals, and that maintains the decreased transmittance state when the terminals are electrically opened; a voltage application unit having a function of applying a voltage between the terminals and a function of electrically disconnecting the terminals; Equipped with The voltage application unit performs a voltage application operation so that the transmittance is 5% or more and 50% or less, and then performs a refresh operation to open the light so that the transmittance remains within the range of 5% or more and 50% or less for 5 minutes or more.

2. The electronic light-adjusting device according to claim 1 , wherein the voltage application unit performs the opening operation so that the transmittance remains within a range of 5% to 30% for 15 minutes or more.

3. the voltage application unit has a secondary battery, The electronic light control device according to claim 1 , wherein the voltage application unit performs the refresh operation during a charging period in which the secondary battery is being charged.

4. a voltage measuring unit for measuring an open circuit voltage between the terminals of the electrochromic element; When the maximum value of the voltage applied between the terminals during the voltage application operation is Ve, The electronic light control device according to claim 1 , wherein the voltage application unit performs the open-circuit operation so that the open-circuit voltage measured by the voltage measurement unit falls within a range of 0.1 Ve or more and less than 1.0 Ve.

5. When the open-circuit voltage immediately after the voltage application unit switches from the voltage application operation to the open-circuit operation is Vo, The electronic light control device according to claim 4 , wherein the voltage application unit performs the open-circuit operation so that the open-circuit voltage measured by the voltage measurement unit falls within a range of 0.8 Vo to 1.2 Vo.

6. The electronic light control device according to claim 1 , wherein the voltage application unit repeatedly performs the refresh operation at predetermined time intervals.

7. The electronic dimming device according to claim 1, wherein the voltage application unit changes at least one of the range of the transmittance when performing the opening operation and the time during which the transmittance falls within the range when performing the opening operation according to the cumulative driving time.

8. The electronic light control device according to claim 1 or 2, which is used as glasses.

Images