Dimming module and dimming apparatus

Abstract

A dimming module (300) and a dimming apparatus (1000). The dimming apparatus (1000) comprises a first substrate (100), a second substrate (200), at least one dimming module (300), a first adhesive layer (400), a second adhesive layer (500) and a first edge sealant (601); the first substrate (100) and the second substrate (200) are arranged opposite to each other; the at least one dimming module (300) is arranged between the first substrate (100) and the second substrate (200); the first adhesive layer (400) is arranged between the first substrate (100) and the dimming module (300), and the second adhesive layer (500) is arranged between the second substrate (200) and the dimming module (300); the first edge sealant (601) is arranged between the first adhesive layer (400) and the second adhesive layer (500) and is connected to the first adhesive layer (400) and the second adhesive layer (500); the first edge sealant (601) is bonded to the side wall of the dimming module (300); the boundary of the orthographic projection of the first substrate (100) on a first reference plane comprises a plurality of first boundaries (101) connected in sequence, the first reference plane being parallel to the surface of the first substrate (100) close to the second substrate (200); and the first edge sealant (601) is provided between some first boundaries (101) among the plurality of first boundaries (101) in the orthographic projection on the first reference plane and the boundary of the orthographic projection of the dimming module (300) on the first reference plane.

Description

Dimming module and dimming device Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to the field of display technology, and in particular to a dimming module and a dimming device. Background Art

[0002] With the development of dimming technology, dimming panels are increasingly being used in architecture and transportation. These panels include polymer dispersed liquid crystal (PDLC) dimming panels, electrochromic (EC) dimming panels, dye and liquid crystal dimming panels, and suspended particle device (SPD) dimming panels.

[0003] Summary of the Invention

[0004] On the one hand, a dimming device is provided. The dimming device includes a first substrate, a second substrate, at least one dimming module, a first adhesive layer, a second adhesive, and a first edge sealant. The first substrate and the second substrate are arranged opposite to each other. The at least one dimming module is arranged between the first substrate and the second substrate. The first adhesive layer is arranged between the first substrate and the dimming module; the second adhesive layer is arranged between the second substrate and the dimming module. The first edge sealant is arranged between the first adhesive layer and the second adhesive layer, and is connected to the first adhesive layer and the second adhesive layer; the first edge sealant is bonded to the side wall of the dimming module; in the orthographic projection onto the first reference surface, the first edge sealant is arranged between some of the multiple first boundaries and the boundary of the orthographic projection of the dimming module on the first reference surface.

[0005] In some embodiments, the first edge sealant is made of the same material as the first adhesive layer and the second adhesive layer, and the first edge sealant is integrally formed.

[0006] In some embodiments, the distance between the boundary of the orthographic projection of the dimming module on the first reference surface and the first boundary is greater than or equal to 2 mm and less than or equal to 5 mm, and there is a gap between the outer boundary of the orthographic projection of the first edge sealing glue on the first reference surface and the first boundary.

[0007] In some embodiments, the distance between the boundary of the orthographic projection of the dimming module on the first reference surface and the first boundary is greater than 5 mm, and the outer boundary of the orthographic projection of the first edge sealing glue on the first reference surface is flush with the first boundary.

[0008] In some embodiments, the first edge sealing adhesive is disposed between a first boundary and a boundary of an orthographic projection of the dimming module on the first reference surface.

[0009] In some embodiments, the first boundary disposed opposite to the circuit board is in the shape of an arc.

[0010] In some embodiments, the dimming device further includes a second edge sealing adhesive, which is arranged around the dimming module and bonded to the side wall of the dimming module; the material of the second edge sealing adhesive is different from the material of the first adhesive layer and the second adhesive layer, and the first edge sealing adhesive is located on the side of the second edge sealing adhesive away from the dimming module, and is bonded to the second edge sealing adhesive.

[0011] In some embodiments, the dimming module includes a first substrate layer, a second substrate layer, a dye liquid crystal layer, and a sealant layer. The first substrate layer and the second substrate layer are disposed opposite each other. The dye liquid crystal layer is disposed between the first substrate layer and the second substrate layer; the sealant layer is disposed between the first substrate layer and the second substrate layer and surrounds the dye liquid crystal layer; and the second edge sealant is disposed around the first substrate layer and the second substrate layer and adheres to the circumferential sidewalls of the first substrate layer and the circumferential sidewalls of the second substrate layer.

[0012] In some embodiments, the dimming module includes a first substrate layer, a second substrate layer, a dye liquid crystal layer, and a sealant layer. The first substrate layer and the second substrate layer are arranged opposite each other. The dye liquid crystal layer is arranged between the first substrate layer and the second substrate layer; the sealant layer is arranged between the first substrate layer and the second substrate layer and surrounds the dye liquid crystal layer; the second edge sealant is arranged between the first substrate layer and the second substrate layer and adheres to the first substrate layer and the second substrate layer; the second edge sealant is arranged around the sealant layer and adheres to the sealant layer, and the outer boundary of the orthographic projection of the second edge sealant on the first reference surface is flush with the boundary of the orthographic projection of the first substrate layer on the first reference surface.

[0013] In some embodiments, the dimming module includes a first substrate layer, a second substrate layer, a dye liquid crystal layer, and a sealant layer. The first substrate layer and the second substrate layer are arranged opposite to each other. The dye liquid crystal layer is arranged between the first substrate layer and the second substrate layer; the sealant layer is arranged between the first substrate layer and the second substrate layer and surrounds the dye liquid crystal layer; the second edge sealant includes a first sub-section and a second sub-section connected to each other, the first sub-section surrounding the first substrate layer and the second substrate layer and bonded to the circumferential sidewalls of the first substrate layer and the circumferential sidewalls of the second substrate layer; the second sub-section is arranged between the first substrate layer and the second substrate layer and bonded to the first substrate layer and the second substrate layer; the second sub-section surrounds the sealant layer and bonds to the sealant layer.

[0014] In some embodiments, the dimming device includes a plurality of dimming modules. The dimming device also includes at least one third adhesive layer, and the third adhesive layer is provided between two adjacent dimming modules. The dimming module includes a substrate, an orientation layer provided on the substrate, and a first mark provided on the substrate. Of the two adjacent dimming modules, one is a first dimming module and the other is a second dimming module; the first mark of the first dimming module and the first mark of the second dimming module are staggered so that the angle between the orientation direction of the orientation layer of the first dimming module and the orientation direction of the orientation layer of the second dimming module is a preset angle.

[0015] In some embodiments, the dimming module includes a circuit board, and the circuit board and the first mark are arranged on the same side of the first substrate.

[0016] In some embodiments, the dimming device has a curvature. The dimming module includes a substrate; one of the two adjacent dimming modules is a third dimming module, and the other is a fourth dimming module. The third dimming module includes a second mark provided on the substrate of the third dimming module; and / or the fourth dimming module includes a third mark provided on the substrate of the fourth dimming module.

[0017] In some embodiments, the dimming module includes a circuit board, and the circuit board, the second mark and / or the third mark are arranged on the same side of the first substrate.

[0018] In some embodiments, the curvature of the dimming device along the first direction is 12 mm / m to 39 mm / m, and the curvature along the second direction is 19 mm / m to 26 mm / m; wherein the first direction intersects the second direction.

[0019] In some embodiments, the dimming device includes multiple dimming modules; the dimming device also includes at least one third adhesive layer, and the third adhesive layer is provided between two adjacent dimming modules; the dimming module includes a substrate; among the two adjacent dimming modules, one is a third dimming module and the other is a fourth dimming module; the third dimming module includes a second mark provided on the substrate of the third dimming module; and / or the fourth dimming module includes a third mark provided on the substrate of the fourth dimming module.

[0020] In some embodiments, the dimming module includes a circuit board, and the circuit board, the second mark and / or the third mark are arranged on the same side of the first substrate.

[0021] In some embodiments, the dimming device further includes an anti-reflection film. The anti-reflection film is disposed on a side of one of the first substrate and the second substrate away from the other substrate, and is configured to reduce the reflectivity of the dimming device.

[0022] In some embodiments, the anti-reflection film includes any one of an anti-transmission anti-reflection film, a moth-eye anti-reflection film, and an anti-glare anti-reflection film.

[0023] In some embodiments, the anti-reflection film includes a first anti-reflection layer and a second anti-reflection layer. The wavelength of visible light incident on the dimming device is λ1, the refractive index of the first anti-reflection layer is n1, and the thickness of the first anti-reflection layer is d1, wherein λ1, n1, and d1 satisfy d1 = λ1 / (4n1). The second anti-reflection layer is disposed on a side of the first anti-reflection layer away from the dimming module, the refractive index of the second anti-reflection layer is n2, and the refractive index of the second anti-reflection layer is less than the refractive index of the first anti-reflection layer, and the thickness of the second anti-reflection layer is d2, wherein λ1, n2, and d2 satisfy d2 = λ1 / (4n2).

[0024] In another aspect, a dimming device is provided. The dimming device includes a first substrate, a second substrate, at least one dimming module, a first adhesive layer, a second adhesive, and a second edge sealant. The first and second substrates are disposed opposite each other. The at least one dimming module is disposed between the first and second substrates. The first adhesive layer is disposed between the first substrate and the dimming module; the second adhesive layer is disposed between the second substrate and the dimming module. The second edge sealant surrounds the dimming module and covers the sidewalls of the dimming module; the material of the second edge sealant is different from that of the first and second adhesive layers.

[0025] In another aspect, a dimming module is provided. The dimming module includes a dimming functional layer. The dimming functional layer includes a transparent adhesive layer and a plurality of first particles; the plurality of first particles are disposed in the transparent adhesive layer, and the first particles include a plurality of first liquid crystal molecules, a plurality of first dye molecules, and a first shell; the plurality of first liquid crystal molecules and the plurality of first dye molecules are disposed within the first shell.

[0026] In some embodiments, the dimming functional layer further comprises a plurality of second particles disposed on one side of the plurality of first particles along a second direction and disposed in the transparent adhesive layer; wherein the second direction is perpendicular to the dimming functional layer. The second particles comprise a second shell, a second shell, and a plurality of second liquid crystal molecules. The plurality of second liquid crystal molecules are disposed within the second shell and form a first helical structure; the wavelength of infrared light incident on the dimming module is λ2, the pitch of the first helical structure is P, and the refractive index of the second liquid crystal molecules is n3, wherein λ2, P, and n3 satisfy: λ2 = n3P.

[0027] In some embodiments, a plurality of the first liquid crystal molecules form a second spiral structure; the pitch of the second spiral structure is greater than or less than the pitch of the first spiral structure; and / or the dielectric constant of the first liquid crystal molecules is greater than or less than the dielectric constant of the second liquid crystal molecules.

[0028] In some embodiments, the first dye molecules have a first color; the dimming layer further includes a plurality of third particles; the plurality of third particles are disposed on one side of the plurality of first particles along a second direction and disposed in the transparent adhesive layer; wherein the second direction is perpendicular to the dimming layer. The third particles include a third shell, a plurality of third liquid crystal molecules, and a plurality of second dye molecules. The plurality of third liquid crystal molecules are disposed within the third shell. The plurality of second dye molecules are disposed within the third shell, and the second dye molecules have a second color; wherein the second color is different from the first color.

[0029] In some embodiments, the first dye molecules have a first color; the first particle further includes a fourth shell, a plurality of third liquid crystal molecules, and a plurality of second dye molecules. The fourth shell surrounds the first shell and is spaced apart from the first shell. The plurality of third liquid crystal molecules are disposed between the first shell and the fourth shell. The plurality of second dye molecules are disposed between the first shell and the fourth shell. The second dye molecules have a second color, wherein the second color is different from the first color.

[0030] In some embodiments, the plurality of first liquid crystal molecules form a second spiral structure, and the plurality of third liquid crystal molecules form a third spiral structure; the pitch of the second spiral structure is greater than or less than the pitch of the third spiral structure; and / or the dielectric constant of the first liquid crystal molecules is different from the dielectric constant of the third liquid crystal molecules.

[0031] On the other hand, a dimming device is provided, which includes the dimming module of any of the above embodiments.

[0032] In some embodiments, the dimming device further comprises a first substrate and a second substrate disposed opposite each other. The dimming module is disposed on a side of one of the first substrate and the second substrate that is away from the other. The dimming module further comprises a first substrate and a second substrate disposed opposite each other; a first electrode, a second electrode, and a dimming functional layer of the dimming module are disposed between the first substrate and the second substrate, with the first electrode and the second electrode being in direct contact with the first substrate and / or the second substrate.

[0033] In some embodiments, the dimming device further comprises a first substrate and a second substrate disposed opposite to each other, the dimming module is disposed between the first substrate and the second substrate, and the first electrode and the second electrode are in direct contact with the first substrate and / or the second substrate.

[0034] In some embodiments, the dimming device further comprises a third substrate and a first plastic frame. The third substrate is disposed on a side of one of the first and second substrates away from the other. The first plastic frame is disposed between the first and second substrates, whichever is closer to the third substrate, and the third substrate; the third substrate, the first plastic frame, and the first and second substrates, whichever is closer to the third substrate, form a first cavity. When the first cavity and the dimming module are both disposed on a side of one of the first and second substrates away from the other, the dimming module is disposed within the first cavity. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0035] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the present disclosure, the following briefly introduces the drawings required for use in some embodiments of the present disclosure. Obviously, the drawings described below are only drawings of some embodiments of the present disclosure, and those skilled in the art can also derive other drawings based on these drawings. Furthermore, the drawings described below are schematic diagrams and are not intended to limit the actual dimensions of the products, actual processes of the methods, actual timing of signals, and the like involved in the embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0036] FIG1 is a structural diagram of a dimming device according to some embodiments;

[0037] 2A and 2B are structural diagrams of a dimming device including a first edge sealing adhesive according to some embodiments;

[0038] 3A to 3G are another structural diagram of a dimming device including a first edge sealing adhesive according to some embodiments;

[0039] FIG4 is a flow chart of a method for preparing a dimming device according to some embodiments;

[0040] 5A and 5B are structural diagrams of a dimming device including a first edge sealing adhesive and a second edge sealing adhesive according to some embodiments;

[0041] 6A to 6C are another structural diagram of a dimming device including a first edge sealing adhesive and a second edge sealing adhesive according to some embodiments;

[0042] FIG7 is a flow chart of another method for preparing a dimming device according to some embodiments;

[0043] FIG8A is a structural diagram of dye molecules with their long axes parallel to each other according to some embodiments;

[0044] FIG8B is a structural diagram of a dye molecule forming a helical structure according to some embodiments;

[0045] FIG9 is a structural diagram of a dimming device including a multi-layer dimming module according to some embodiments;

[0046] FIG10A is a structural diagram of a dimming device including a first mark according to some embodiments;

[0047] FIG10B is another structural diagram of a dimming device including a first mark according to some embodiments;

[0048] FIG11 is a structural diagram of a dimming device having a curvature according to some embodiments;

[0049] FIG12A is a structural diagram of a dimming device including a second mark according to some embodiments;

[0050] FIG12B is a structural diagram of a dimming device including a third mark according to some embodiments;

[0051] FIG12C is a structural diagram of a dimming device including a second mark and a third mark according to some embodiments;

[0052] FIG13A is a graph showing experimental results of reflectivity of a projection-enhanced anti-reflection film including six anti-reflection layers according to some embodiments;

[0053] FIG13B is a graph showing experimental results of reflectivity of a projection-enhanced anti-reflection film including eight anti-reflection layers according to some embodiments;

[0054] 14A to 14C are structural diagrams of a dimming device including a second edge sealing adhesive according to some embodiments;

[0055] 15A to 15D are structural diagrams of a dimming device including a second edge sealing adhesive according to some embodiments;

[0056] 16A to 16D are structural diagrams of a dimming device including a second edge sealing adhesive according to some embodiments;

[0057] FIG17 is a flow chart of another method for preparing a dimming device according to some embodiments;

[0058] FIG18 is a structural diagram of a car according to some embodiments;

[0059] FIG19 is a diagram illustrating a dimming module including a first particle structure according to some embodiments;

[0060] FIG20 is a flow chart of preparing first particles according to some embodiments;

[0061] FIG21 is a structural diagram showing a first liquid crystal molecule forming a second helical structure according to some embodiments;

[0062] FIG22 is a structural diagram of a dimming module including first particles and second particles according to some embodiments;

[0063] FIG23 is a structural diagram of a dimming module including a third housing according to some embodiments;

[0064] FIG24 is a structural diagram showing a first liquid crystal molecule forming a second helical structure and a long axis direction of the second liquid crystal molecule being perpendicular to the first substrate according to some embodiments;

[0065] FIG25 is another structural diagram showing that the first liquid crystal molecules form a second helical structure and the long axis direction of the second liquid crystal molecules is perpendicular to the first substrate according to some embodiments;

[0066] FIG26 is a structural diagram showing a first liquid crystal molecule and a second liquid crystal molecule both being perpendicular to the first substrate according to some embodiments;

[0067] FIG27 is another structural diagram showing that the first liquid crystal molecules and the second liquid crystal molecules are both perpendicular to the first substrate according to some embodiments;

[0068] FIG28 is a structural diagram showing a first liquid crystal molecule having a long axis direction perpendicular to the first substrate and a second liquid crystal molecule forming a first helical structure according to some embodiments;

[0069] FIG29 is another structural diagram showing that the long axis direction of the first liquid crystal molecules is perpendicular to the first substrate and the second liquid crystal molecules form a first helical structure according to some embodiments;

[0070] FIG30 is a structural diagram showing a first liquid crystal molecule being arranged disorderly and a second liquid crystal molecule forming a first helical structure according to some embodiments;

[0071] FIG31 is another structural diagram showing a disordered arrangement of first liquid crystal molecules and a first helical structure of second liquid crystal molecules according to some embodiments;

[0072] FIG32 is a structural diagram showing a first liquid crystal molecule being arranged disorderly and a long axis direction of a second liquid crystal molecule being perpendicular to the first substrate according to some embodiments;

[0073] FIG33 is another structural diagram showing that the first liquid crystal molecules are arranged in a disordered manner and the long axis direction of the second liquid crystal molecules is perpendicular to the first substrate according to some embodiments;

[0074] FIG34 is a diagram illustrating a structure of a first dye molecule having a first color according to some embodiments;

[0075] FIG35 is a structural diagram of a dimming module including first particles and third particles according to some embodiments;

[0076] FIG36 is a structural diagram of a dimming module including a fourth housing according to some embodiments;

[0077] FIG37 is a structural diagram showing a first liquid crystal molecule forming a second helical structure and a third liquid crystal molecule forming a third helical structure according to some embodiments;

[0078] FIG38 is another structural diagram showing a first liquid crystal molecule forming a second helical structure and a third liquid crystal molecule forming a third helical structure according to some embodiments;

[0079] FIG39 is a structural diagram showing a first liquid crystal molecule having a long axis direction perpendicular to the first substrate and a third liquid crystal molecule forming a third helical structure according to some embodiments;

[0080] FIG40 is another structural diagram showing that the long axis direction of the first liquid crystal molecules is perpendicular to the first substrate and the third liquid crystal molecules form a third helical structure according to some embodiments;

[0081] FIG41 is a structural diagram showing a structure in which the long axis directions of the first liquid crystal molecules and the long axis directions of the third liquid crystal molecules are both perpendicular to the first substrate according to some embodiments;

[0082] FIG42 is another structural diagram in which the long axis directions of the first liquid crystal molecules and the long axis directions of the third liquid crystal molecules are both perpendicular to the first substrate according to some embodiments;

[0083] FIG43 is a structural diagram showing a first liquid crystal molecule forming a second helical structure and a long axis direction of a third liquid crystal molecule being perpendicular to the first substrate according to some embodiments;

[0084] FIG44 is another structural diagram in which the first liquid crystal molecules form a second helical structure and the long axis direction of the third liquid crystal molecules is perpendicular to the first substrate according to some embodiments;

[0085] FIG45 is a structural diagram showing a first liquid crystal molecule being arranged disorderly and a third liquid crystal molecule forming a first helical structure according to some embodiments;

[0086] FIG46 is another structural diagram showing a disordered arrangement of first liquid crystal molecules and a first helical structure formed by third liquid crystal molecules according to some embodiments;

[0087] FIG47 is a structural diagram showing a first liquid crystal molecule forming a first helical structure and a third liquid crystal molecule being arranged in a disordered manner according to some embodiments;

[0088] FIG48 is another structural diagram showing that the first liquid crystal molecules form a first helical structure and the third liquid crystal molecules are arranged in a disordered manner according to some embodiments;

[0089] FIG49 is a structural diagram showing a disordered arrangement of third liquid crystal molecules in which the long axis direction of the first liquid crystal molecules is perpendicular to the first substrate according to some embodiments;

[0090] FIG50 is another structural diagram showing a disordered arrangement of third liquid crystal molecules in which the long axis direction of the first liquid crystal molecules is perpendicular to the first substrate according to some embodiments;

[0091] FIG51 is a structural diagram showing a first liquid crystal molecule being arranged disorderly and a long axis direction of a third liquid crystal molecule being perpendicular to the first substrate according to some embodiments;

[0092] FIG52 is another structural diagram showing that the first liquid crystal molecules are arranged in a disordered manner and the long axis direction of the third liquid crystal molecules is perpendicular to the first substrate according to some embodiments;

[0093] FIG53 is a structural diagram showing a plurality of first electrodes and a plurality of second electrodes arranged alternately according to some embodiments;

[0094] FIG54 is a structural diagram showing a dimming module disposed on a first substrate away from a second substrate according to some embodiments;

[0095] FIG55 is another structural diagram showing a dimming module disposed on a first substrate away from a second substrate according to some embodiments;

[0096] FIG56 is a structural diagram showing a dimming module disposed between a first substrate and a second substrate according to some embodiments;

[0097] FIG57 is another structural diagram of a dimming module disposed between a first substrate and a second substrate according to some embodiments;

[0098] FIG58 is another structural diagram of a dimming module disposed between a first substrate and a second substrate according to some embodiments;

[0099] FIG59 is another structural diagram showing a dimming module disposed between a first substrate and a second substrate according to some embodiments;

[0100] FIG60 is a structural diagram showing a dimming module disposed in a first cavity according to some embodiments. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0101] The following will be combined with the accompanying drawings to clearly and completely describe the technical solutions in some embodiments of the present disclosure. Obviously, the embodiments described are only some embodiments of the present disclosure, not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments provided by the present disclosure, all other embodiments obtained by ordinary technicians in this field are within the scope of protection of the present disclosure.

[0102] Unless the context requires otherwise, throughout the specification and claims, the term "comprise" and its other forms, such as the third person singular form "comprises" and the present participle form "comprising", are to be interpreted as open and inclusive, that is, "including, but not limited to". In the description of the specification, the terms "one embodiment", "some embodiments", "exemplary embodiments", "example", "specific example" or "some examples" are intended to indicate that the particular features, structures, materials or characteristics associated with the embodiment or example are included in at least one embodiment or example of the present disclosure. The schematic representation of the above terms does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. In addition, the particular features, structures, materials or characteristics may be included in any one or more embodiments or examples in any appropriate manner.

[0103] In the following, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be understood to indicate or imply relative importance or implicitly specify the number of technical features indicated. Therefore, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of such features. In the description of the embodiments of the present disclosure, unless otherwise specified, "plurality" means two or more.

[0104] When describing some embodiments, the expressions "coupled" and "connected" and their derivatives may be used. The term "connected" should be understood in a broad sense. For example, "connection" can be a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; it can be directly connected or indirectly connected through an intermediate medium. The term "coupled" indicates, for example, that two or more components are in direct physical or electrical contact. The term "coupled" or "communicatively coupled" may also refer to two or more components that are not in direct contact with each other, but still cooperate or interact with each other. The embodiments disclosed herein are not necessarily limited to the contents of this document.

[0105] “At least one of A, B and C” has the same meaning as “at least one of A, B or C” and both include the following combinations of A, B and C: A only, B only, C only, the combination of A and B, the combination of A and C, the combination of B and C, and the combination of A, B and C.

[0106] “A and / or B” includes the following three combinations: A only, B only, and a combination of A and B.

[0107] The use of "adapted to" or "configured to" herein is intended to be open and inclusive language that does not exclude devices adapted or configured to perform additional tasks or steps.

[0108] Additionally, the use of “based on” is meant to be open and inclusive, as a process, step, calculation, or other action “based on” one or more stated conditions or values ​​may, in practice, be based on additional conditions or values ​​beyond those stated.

[0109] As used herein, "about," "substantially," or "approximately" includes the stated value and an average value that is within an acceptable range of deviation from the particular value as determined by one of ordinary skill in the art taking into account the measurements in question and the errors associated with the measurement of the particular quantity (i.e., the limitations of the measurement system).

[0110] As used herein, "parallel", "perpendicular", and "equal" include the situations described and situations similar to the situations described, and the range of the similar situations is within an acceptable deviation range, wherein the acceptable deviation range is as determined by a person of ordinary skill in the art taking into account the measurement in question and the errors associated with the measurement of the specific quantity (i.e., the limitations of the measurement system). For example, "parallel" includes absolute parallelism and approximate parallelism, wherein the acceptable deviation range of approximate parallelism can be, for example, a deviation within 5°; "perpendicular" includes absolute perpendicularity and approximate perpendicularity, wherein the acceptable deviation range of approximate perpendicularity can also be, for example, a deviation within 5°. "Equal" includes absolute equality and approximate equality, wherein the acceptable deviation range of approximate equality can be, for example, that the difference between the two equals is less than or equal to 5% of either one.

[0111] It will be understood that when a layer or element is referred to as being on another layer or substrate, it can be directly on the other layer or substrate, or intervening layers may be present therebetween.

[0112] Exemplary embodiments are described herein with reference to cross-sectional and / or plan views that are idealized exemplary drawings. In the drawings, the thickness of layers and the area of ​​regions are exaggerated for clarity. Therefore, variations in shape relative to the drawings due to, for example, manufacturing techniques and / or tolerances are contemplated. Therefore, the exemplary embodiments should not be construed as limited to the shapes of the regions shown herein, but rather include deviations in shape due to, for example, manufacturing. For example, an etched region shown as a rectangle will typically have curved features. Therefore, the regions shown in the drawings are schematic in nature, and their shapes are not intended to illustrate the actual shape of regions of the device and are not intended to limit the scope of the exemplary embodiments.

[0113] An embodiment of the present disclosure further provides a dimming device 1000 . As shown in FIG. 1 , the dimming device 1000 includes a first substrate 100 , a second substrate 200 , at least one dimming module 300 , a first adhesive layer 400 , and a second adhesive layer 500 .

[0114] Exemplarily, the dimming device 1000 includes one, two or three dimming modules 300 , which are not listed one by one in the embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0115] As shown in FIG1 , the first substrate 100 and the second substrate 200 are arranged opposite to each other. The materials of the first substrate 100 and the second substrate 200 may include materials with high light transmittance (for example, light transmittance greater than 85%). For example, the materials of the first substrate 100 and the second substrate 200 may include tempered glass.

[0116] At least one dimming module 300 is disposed between the first substrate 100 and the second substrate 200 . For example, as shown in FIG1 , the dimming module 300 includes a first substrate layer 310 , a second substrate layer 320 , a dye liquid crystal layer 330 , and a sealant layer 340 .

[0117] The first base material layer 310 and the second base material layer 320 are arranged opposite to each other. The first base material layer 310 includes a first substrate 311 , and a first electrode 312 and a first alignment layer 313 provided on the first substrate 311 and stacked in a direction perpendicular to the first substrate 311 .

[0118] The material of the first substrate 311 may include a material with high light transmittance (for example, light transmittance greater than or equal to 85%). For example, the material of the first substrate 311 may include polyethersulfone (PES), polyarylate (PAR), polyetherimide (PEI), polyethylene naphthalate (PEN), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyphenylene sulfide (PPS), polyimide (PI), polycarbonate (PC), cellulose triacetate (TAC), cellulose acetate propionate (CAP), polyphenylene sulfone resin (PPSU), cycloolefin polymer (Cyclo Olefin), cellulose acetate (TAC), cellulose acetate propionate (CAP), polyphenylene sulfone resin (PPSU), cycloolefin polymer (Cyclo Olefin), polyimide (PI), polycarbonate (PC), polyimide (PI), polycarbonate (PC), polyethersulfone (PEI), polyethylene naphthalate (PEN), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyphenylene sulfide (PPS), polyimide (PI), polycarbonate (PC), polyethersulfone (PEI), polyethylene naphthalate (PEN), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyphenylene sulfide (PPS), polyimide (PI), polycarbonate (PC), polyethersulfone (PEI), polyethylene naphthalate (PEN), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyphenylene sulfide (PPS), polyimide (PI), polycarbonate (PC), polyethersulfone (PEI), polyethersulfone (PES), polyethersulfone (PEI), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyphenylene sulfide (PPS), polyimide (PI), polycarbonate (PC), polycarbonate (PC), polyvinyl alcohol (PPI ... Polymer (abbreviated as COP) and polymethyl methacrylate (English: Polymethyl Methacrylate, abbreviated as PMMA) or more. For example, the material of the first substrate 311 is polyimide.

[0119] The material of the first electrode 312 may include a conductive material with high light transmittance. For example, the material of the first electrode 312 may include indium tin oxide (ITO). The material of the second electrode 322 may be the same as that of the first electrode 312.

[0120] The second base material layer 320 includes a second substrate 321, a second electrode 322 and a second alignment layer 323 disposed on the second substrate 321 and perpendicular to the second substrate 321. The alignment direction of the second alignment layer 323 is parallel to the alignment direction of the first alignment layer 313.

[0121] As shown in FIG1 , the material of the second substrate 321 can be the same as that of the first substrate 311, and the material of the second electrode 322 can be the same as that of the first electrode 312. For example, the material of the second substrate 321 and the first substrate 311 can both include polyimide, and the material of the second electrode 322 and the first electrode 312 can include indium tin oxide. This arrangement can improve the material uniformity of the dimming module 300 and reduce the manufacturing cost of the dimming module 300.

[0122] The dye liquid crystal layer 330 is disposed between the first alignment layer 313 and the second alignment layer 323. The dye liquid crystal layer 330 includes a plurality of fourth dye molecules 331 and a plurality of fourth liquid crystal molecules 332. The fourth dye molecules 331 have different absorbances along their long and short axes.

[0123] The sealant layer 340 is disposed between the first alignment layer 313 and the second alignment layer 323 and surrounds the dye liquid crystal layer 330 .

[0124] Based on the above structure, by changing the voltage difference between the first electrode 312 and the second electrode 322, the angle between the long axis direction of the fourth liquid crystal molecule 332 and the first substrate 100 can be changed, thereby changing the angle between the dye molecule 31 and the first substrate 100, changing the absorbance of the dye molecule 31, and thus changing the transmittance of the dimming module 300.

[0125] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG1 , the dimming module 300 further includes a spacer 350 disposed between the first alignment layer 313 and the second alignment layer 323. The spacer 350 is configured to support the first alignment layer 313 and the second alignment layer 323, thereby reducing the risk of deformation of the first alignment layer 313 and the second alignment layer 323 and the risk of uneven thickness of the dye liquid crystal layer 330. The spacer 350 can be a spherical spacer 350 made of glass fiber or a rod-shaped spacer 350 made of resin.

[0126] The first adhesive layer 400 is disposed between the first substrate 100 and the dimming module 300. The first adhesive layer 400 can cover the first substrate 100, and the dimming module 300 and the first substrate 100 are bonded together via the first adhesive layer 400. The first adhesive layer 400 may be made of a material with high light transmittance, such as polyvinyl butyral (PVB), ethylene vinyl acetate copolymer (EVA), or ionic interlayer (Sentry Glas Plus, SGP). These materials are not listed in detail in the embodiments of this disclosure. For example, the first adhesive layer 400 may be made of PVB.

[0127] The second adhesive layer 500 is disposed between the second substrate 200 and the dimming module 300. The second adhesive layer 500 can cover the second substrate 200. The dimming module 300 and the second substrate 200 are adhered together via the first adhesive layer 400. The material of the second adhesive layer 500 includes polyvinyl butyral, ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer, or an ionic interlayer. The embodiments of the present disclosure are not listed one by one. For example, the material of the second adhesive layer 500 includes PVB.

[0128] In related art, the dimming device further includes a second plastic frame. The second plastic frame is disposed between the first substrate and the second substrate and surrounds at least one dimming module. The second plastic frame is made of polyvinyl butyral, ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer, or an ionic interlayer.

[0129] Based on the above-mentioned structure, the dimming device can be prepared using the following preparation method: first, a first substrate, an adhesive layer, at least one dimming module, an adhesive layer, and a second substrate are stacked in sequence, and a second adhesive frame is arranged between the first substrate and the second substrate, surrounding the dimming module, to form a dimming device stack. The dimming device stack is then laminated (lamination refers to: the first substrate (first film layer) on one side of the adhesive layer, and the second substrate (second film layer) on the other side of the adhesive layer. After the adhesive layer is subjected to a special high-temperature pre-pressing (or vacuuming) and high-temperature and high-pressure process, the first substrate (first film layer), the adhesive layer, and the second substrate (second film layer) are permanently bonded together) to form a dimming device. For example, the dimming device stack is laminated using an autoclave.

[0130] Among them, on the one hand, the second glue frame includes multiple stacked glue layers, and the thickness specification of the glue layer is a multiple of a certain value (for example, 0.38mm). That is to say, the size of the second glue frame along the second direction is a multiple of 0.38mm and cannot be an arbitrary value. This may cause the size of the second glue frame along the second direction to be unequal to the size of at least one dimming module along the second direction.

[0131] During the assembly process, the first adhesive layer and the adhesive frame are both in a molten state, i.e., both are fluid, and the second adhesive frame is bonded to the first adhesive layer to form a single body. The dimensions of the second adhesive frame along the second direction are unequal to the dimensions of at least one dimming module along the second direction, causing the central portion of the first substrate to be concave or convex. Furthermore, the second adhesive frame blocks the stress release of the first adhesive layer, resulting in a thicker first adhesive layer at the convex portion of the first substrate after assembly, and a thinner first adhesive layer at the concave portion of the first substrate. This inconsistent thickness of the first adhesive layer results in inconsistent stress on the dimming module, causing liquid crystal molecules in areas of the dimming module subject to greater stress to migrate toward areas subject to less stress. The liquid crystal molecules then stack in the less stressed areas, resulting in black spots on the dye liquid crystal layer.

[0132] On the other hand, there is a gap between the second frame and the dimming module. This gap provides space for thermal expansion and contraction of the dimming module during assembly, reducing the risk of collision between the dimming module and the second frame. However, this results in a larger distance between the dimming module boundary and the boundary of the first substrate, resulting in a larger frame for the dimming device. If the second frame's dimension along the first direction is greater than or equal to 10 mm, this also results in a larger frame for the dimming device.

[0133] To address the aforementioned technical issues, as shown in FIG1 , some embodiments of the present disclosure provide a dimming device 1000 that does not include the second adhesive frame commonly used in related art. This eliminates the second adhesive frame used in related art. This allows the stress generated by the first adhesive layer 400 to be released during assembly, ensuring that the distance between the first substrate 100 and the dimming module 300 is uniform throughout. This improves the thickness uniformity of the first adhesive layer 400 after assembly, thereby ensuring more uniform stress on the dye liquid crystal layer 330 and reducing the risk of dark spots forming within the dye liquid crystal layer 330.

[0134] In some embodiments, as shown in Figure 1 , the boundary of the orthographic projection of the dimming module 300 on the first reference plane is flush with at least a portion of the boundary of the orthographic projection of the first substrate 100 on the first reference plane. This arrangement can shorten the frame width of the dimming device 1000. The first reference plane is parallel to the surface of the first substrate 100 adjacent to the second substrate 200.

[0135] In some embodiments, a distance between a boundary of an orthographic projection of the dimming module 300 on the first reference plane and a boundary of an orthographic projection of the first substrate 100 on the first reference plane is less than or equal to 5 mm.

[0136] For example, the distance between the boundary of the orthographic projection of the dimming module 300 on the first reference plane and the first boundary is 0 mm, 1 mm, 1.4 mm, 2 mm, 2.8 mm, 3 mm, 3.2 mm, 4 mm, 4.5 mm, or 5 mm.

[0137] In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 2A and 2B, the dimming device 1000 further includes a first edge sealant 601. The first edge sealant 601 is disposed between the first adhesive layer 400 and the second adhesive layer 500 and is connected to the first adhesive layer 400 and the second adhesive layer 500. In this way, the first edge sealant 601 is bonded to the first substrate 100 via the first adhesive layer 400 and to the second substrate 200 via the second adhesive layer 500, thereby providing a more secure connection between the first substrate 100 and the second substrate 200.

[0138] The first edge sealing adhesive 601 is bonded to the side wall of the dimming module 300. In this way, there is no gap between the first edge sealing adhesive 601 and the dimming module 300, thereby shortening the frame width of the dimming device 1000.

[0139] It should be noted that the term "bonding" should be understood in a broad sense. "Bonding" can be direct bonding, that is, there is no other component (or region, layer, part) between the two components (or region, layer, part), or it can be indirect bonding through an intermediate medium, that is, there is other component (or region, layer, part) between the two components (or region, layer, part).

[0140] On this basis, as shown in Figures 3A to 3G , the boundary of the orthographic projection of the first substrate 100 onto the first reference surface includes a plurality of sequentially connected first boundaries 101. In the orthographic projection onto the first reference surface, a first edge sealant 601 is disposed between some of the plurality of first boundaries 101 and the boundary of the orthographic projection of the dimming module 300 onto the first reference surface. That is, at least one first boundary 101 is disposed with the first edge sealant 601, and at least one first boundary 101 is not disposed with the first edge sealant 601.

[0141] In some examples, as shown in Figures 3A to 3G , the boundary of the orthographic projection of the first substrate 100 on the first reference surface includes four sequentially connected first boundaries 101. As shown in Figures 3A, 3B, and 3E , a first edge sealant 601 is provided at one boundary. Alternatively, as shown in Figures 3C and 3F , first edge sealant 601 is provided at two boundaries, where the two boundaries can be adjacent or opposite. Alternatively, as shown in Figures 3D and 3G , first edge sealant is provided at three boundaries.

[0142] The shapes of the four first boundaries 101 can be arcs and / or straight lines. For example, the shapes of the four first boundaries 101 are arcs. Alternatively, for example, as shown in Figures 3A to 3D, the shapes of the four first boundaries 101 are straight lines. Alternatively, for example, some of the four first boundaries 101 are arcs and some are straight lines. For example, as shown in Figures 3E to 3G, the shapes of three first boundaries 101 are straight lines and the shape of one first boundary 101 is an arc.

[0143] In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 2A and 2B , the orthographic projection of the sealant layer 340 on the second reference surface is within the range of the orthographic projection of the first edge sealant 601 on the second reference surface. The second reference surface is parallel to the surface of the first edge sealant 601 closest to the sealant layer 340. This prevents moisture from entering the space between the first substrate layer 310 and the second substrate layer 320, thereby reducing the risk of degradation of organic materials within the first and second substrate layers 310 and 320.

[0144] In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 2A and 2B, the first edge sealant 601 is made of the same material as the first adhesive layer 400 and the second adhesive layer 500, and is integrally formed. The first edge sealant 601 is bonded to the sidewalls of the first substrate layer 310 and to the sidewalls of the second substrate layer 320. The first edge sealant 601, the first adhesive layer 400, and the second adhesive layer 500 are formed in the same process.

[0145] Based on the above structure, as shown in FIG4 , the manufacturing method of the dimming device 1000 includes: S100 to S200 .

[0146] S100: preparing a dimming module 300.

[0147] S200: forming a first dimming device stack.

[0148] In the above steps, the second substrate, the second initial adhesive layer, at least one dimming module, the first initial adhesive layer, and the first substrate are stacked in sequence, the second initial adhesive layer covers the second substrate 200, the first initial adhesive layer covers the first substrate 100, and the boundary of the orthographic projection of the dimming module 300 on the first reference plane is spaced from the boundary of the first substrate 100.

[0149] S300: stacking the first dimming devices and assembling them to form the dimming device 1000.

[0150] During the above steps, the first and second initial adhesive layers are in a molten state. The portion of the first initial adhesive layer that extends beyond the dimming module 300 flows along the sidewalls of the dimming module 300 toward the second substrate 200, connecting with the portion of the second initial adhesive layer that extends beyond the dimming module 300. At this point, the portion of the first initial adhesive layer disposed between the first substrate 100 and the dimming module 300 forms the first adhesive layer 400, the portion of the first initial adhesive layer that covers the sidewalls of the dimming module 300 forms the first edge sealant 601, and the second initial adhesive layer forms the second adhesive layer 500.

[0151] During the lamination process, there are no obstacles on the surrounding sides of the first initial adhesive layer, and the stress generated by the first initial adhesive layer can be released, so that the distance between the first substrate 100 and the dimming module 300 can be equal everywhere, which is beneficial to improving the thickness uniformity of the part of the first adhesive layer 400 that is bonded to the dimming module 300 after lamination, thereby making the force uniformity of the dimming module 300 better, and reducing the risk of black spots appearing on the dimming module 300.

[0152] If the first initial adhesive layer has not yet flowed onto the sidewalls of the dimming module 300, there are no components surrounding the dimming module 300, reducing the risk of impact to the dimming module 300. If the first initial adhesive layer partially flows onto the sidewalls of the dimming module 300, the portion of the first initial adhesive layer that has flowed onto the sidewalls of the dimming module 300 will expand and contract synchronously with the dimming module 300, thus also reducing the risk of impact to the dimming module 300.

[0153] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG2A , the size of the first edge sealant 601 along the first direction X is 0.5 mm to 2 mm, for example, the size of the first edge sealant 601 along the first direction X is 0.5 mm, 0.7 mm, 0.8 mm, 1 mm, 1.3 mm, 1.5 mm, 1.8 mm, or 2 mm, which are not listed one by one in the embodiments of the present disclosure. The first direction X is parallel to the first substrate 100 and perpendicular to the first edge sealant 601. In this way, along the first direction X, the size of the first edge sealant 601 is smaller, which can further shorten the border width of the dimming device 1000.

[0154] In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 2A and 3A, the distance between the boundary of the orthographic projection of the dimming module 300 on the first reference surface and the first boundary 101 is greater than or equal to 2 mm and less than or equal to 5 mm, and there is a gap between the outer boundary of the orthographic projection of the first edge sealing glue 601 on the first reference surface and the first boundary 101.

[0155] For example, the distance between the boundary of the orthographic projection of the dimming module 300 on the first reference plane and the first boundary 101 is 2 mm, 2.2 mm, 2.5 mm, 3 mm, 3.8 mm, 4 mm, 4.5 mm or 5 mm, which are not listed in the embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0156] In this arrangement, a distance of 2 mm or greater ensures that a greater amount of the first initial adhesive layer protrudes beyond the dimming module 300, allowing the first initial adhesive layer to flow along the sidewalls of the dimming module 300 to the second initial adhesive layer without breaking apart. Furthermore, a distance of 5 mm or less ensures that less of the first substrate 100 protrudes beyond the first edge sealant 601, reducing the risk of uneven lamination pressure on the first substrate 100.

[0157] In other embodiments, as shown in FIG2B and FIG3B , the distance between the orthographic projection boundary of the dimming module 300 on the first reference surface and the first boundary 101 is greater than 5 mm. The orthographic projection outer boundary of the first edge sealant 601 on the first reference surface is flush with the first boundary 101 .

[0158] For example, the distance between the boundary of the orthographic projection of the dimming module 300 on the first reference plane and the first boundary 101 is 5 mm, 5.6 mm, 6 mm, or 7 mm.

[0159] In this arrangement, a distance greater than 5 mm allows the first initial adhesive layer to extend significantly beyond the dimming module 300, allowing the first initial adhesive layer to flow along the sidewalls of the dimming module 300 to the second initial adhesive layer without breaking apart. Furthermore, the flush border provides support for the edge of the first substrate 100, reducing the risk of uneven lamination pressure on the first substrate 100.

[0160] It should be noted that the space enclosed by the first adhesive layer 400 , the second adhesive layer 500 and the first edge sealant 601 in FIG. 2A may be filled with PVB to form the dimming device 1000 as shown in FIG. 2B .

[0161] In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 3A, 3B, and 3E, a first edge sealant 601 is provided between one first boundary 101 and the boundary of the orthographic projection of the dimming module 300 on the first reference surface. No first edge sealant 601 is provided between the remaining first boundaries 101 and the boundaries of the orthographic projection of the dimming module 300 on the first reference surface.

[0162] In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 2A and 2B, the dimming module 300 further includes a circuit board 360. The circuit board 360 is located between the first substrate layer 310 and the second substrate layer 320, and on the side of the sealant layer 340 adjacent to the first edge sealant 601. The circuit board 360 extends straight outward and penetrates the first edge sealant 601. The circuit board 360 can penetrate the first edge sealant 601 along the first direction X or at an angle. In other words, the first edge sealant 601 also serves to secure the circuit board 360.

[0163] In this way, when the dimming device 1000 is used for a vehicle window glass, the circuit board 360 can be hidden by the vehicle door, thereby reducing the risk of the circuit board 360 being exposed to the outside and being damaged.

[0164] For example, as shown in Figures 3A, 3B, and 3E, the boundary of the orthographic projection of the first substrate 100 on the first reference surface includes four sequentially connected first boundaries 101. A first edge sealant 601 is provided at one first boundary 101, while the remaining first boundaries 101 are not provided with the first edge sealant 601. The circuit board 360 is provided on a side of the sealant layer 340 close to the first edge sealant 601 and penetrates the first edge sealant 601. The first edge sealant 601 is used to secure the circuit board 360.

[0165] 3E to 3G , the first boundary 101 opposite to the circuit board 360 is in the shape of an arc. In this case, when the dimming device 1000 is used for a vehicle window glass, the vehicle window glass including the dimming device 1000 can be installed in a frameless vehicle door.

[0166] In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 5A to 6C, the dimming device 1000 further includes a second edge sealant 602. The second edge sealant 602 is disposed around the dimming module 300 and is bonded to the sidewalls of the dimming module 300. The material of the second edge sealant 602 is different from that of the first adhesive layer 400 and the second adhesive layer 500. The material of the second edge sealant 602 may include a thermosetting material, such as epoxy resin. The first edge sealant 601 is located on a side of the second edge sealant 602 away from the sealant layer 340 and is bonded to the second edge sealant 602.

[0167] It should be noted that, at the first boundary 101 where only the second edge sealant 602 is provided, there is a gap between the outer boundary of the orthographic projection of the second edge sealant 602 on the first reference surface and the first boundary 101. Alternatively, the outer boundary of the orthographic projection of the second edge sealant 602 on the first reference surface is flush with the first boundary 101.

[0168] Exemplarily, the boundary of the orthographic projection of the first substrate 100 on the first reference surface includes four first boundaries 101 connected in sequence. A first edge sealant 601 and a second edge sealant 602 are provided at one first boundary 101, with the first edge sealant 601 being provided on the side of the second edge sealant 602 away from the sealant layer 340. Only the second edge sealant 602 is provided at the other three first boundaries 101. The circuit board 360 is provided on a side of the sealant layer 340 close to the first edge sealant 601 and extends through the first edge sealant 601 and the second edge sealant 602. The first edge sealant 601 and the second edge sealant 602 are used to secure the circuit board 360.

[0169] Based on the above structure, as shown in FIG7 , between S100 and S200 , the method for preparing the dimming device 1000 further includes S201 .

[0170] S201 , forming a second edge-sealing adhesive 602 on the circumferential side wall of the dimming module 300 by using a coating process.

[0171] In the above steps, the second edge-sealing adhesive 602 is disposed between the first substrate 100 and the second substrate 200 . The second edge-sealing adhesive 602 surrounds the dimming module 300 and covers the sidewalls of the dimming module 300 .

[0172] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG6A , the orthographic projection of the dimming module 300 on the first reference plane is located within the orthographic projection of the first substrate 100 on the first reference plane and is spaced from the boundary of the orthographic projection. The second edge sealant 602 is disposed around the first substrate layer 310 and the second substrate layer 320 and is bonded to the circumferential sidewalls of the first substrate layer 310 and the second substrate layer 320.

[0173] In other embodiments, as shown in FIG6B , the second edge sealant 602 is disposed between the first substrate layer 310 and the second substrate layer 320 and is bonded to the first substrate layer 310 and the second substrate layer 320. The second edge sealant 602 is disposed around the sealant layer 340 and is bonded to the sealant layer 340. The outer boundary of the orthographic projection of the second edge sealant 602 on the first reference surface is flush with the boundary of the orthographic projection of the first substrate layer 310 on the first reference surface.

[0174] In yet other embodiments, as shown in FIG6C , the orthographic projection of the dimming module 300 on the first reference plane is located within the orthographic projection of the first substrate 100 on the first reference plane and is spaced from the boundary of the orthographic projection. The second edge sealant 602 includes a first sub-portion 6021 and a second sub-portion 6022 connected to each other. The first sub-portion 6021 surrounds the first substrate layer 310 and the second substrate layer 320 and is bonded to the circumferential sidewalls of the first substrate layer 310 and the second substrate layer 320. The second sub-portion 6022 is disposed between the first substrate layer 310 and the second substrate layer 320 and is bonded to the first substrate layer 310 and the second substrate layer 320. The second sub-portion 6022 surrounds the sealant layer 340 and is bonded to the sealant layer 340.

[0175] The following is an example to illustrate the number of dimming modules 300 included in the dimming device 1000.

[0176] In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 8A and 8B, a dimming device 1000 includes a dimming module 300. As shown in Figure 8A, the long axes of the liquid crystal molecules in the dimming module 300 can be parallel, or, as shown in Figure 8B, the fourth liquid crystal molecules 332 in the dimming device 1000 form a fourth helical structure.

[0177] The following describes an example of how the fourth liquid crystal molecules 332 form the fourth helical structure.

[0178] In some examples, the fourth liquid crystal molecules 332 are nematic liquid crystal molecules, and the dye liquid crystal layer 330 further includes a chiral agent that can enable the nematic liquid crystal molecules to form a second helical structure.

[0179] In other examples, the fourth liquid crystal molecules 332 are cholesteric liquid crystal molecules, which form a helical structure. That is, the dye liquid crystal layer 330 does not need to add a chiral agent, and the cholesteric liquid crystal molecules can form a second helical structure.

[0180] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG8A , a dimming device 1000 includes a dimming module 300, wherein the long axes of the liquid crystal molecules in the dimming module 300 are parallel. The dimming device 1000 also includes a polarizer 700, which is disposed between the dimming module 300 and the first substrate 100 or the second substrate 200, and the polarization axis of the polarizer 700 is perpendicular to the orientation direction of the first alignment layer 313 in the dimming module 300.

[0181] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG9 , a dimming device 1000 includes multiple dimming modules 300. The dimming device 1000 also includes at least one third adhesive layer 800. Adjacent dimming modules 300 are provided with a third adhesive layer 800, and adjacent dimming modules 300 are connected via the third adhesive layer 800. The material of the third adhesive layer 800 may include polyvinyl butyral, ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer, or an ionic interlayer, and the embodiments of the present disclosure are not listed one by one. For example, the material of the third adhesive layer 800 includes PVB.

[0182] In some examples, as shown in FIG. 9 , the dimming device 1000 includes two dimming modules 300 , and the alignment directions of the first alignment layers 313 of the two dimming modules 300 are perpendicular.

[0183] In some embodiments, the dimming device 1000 includes multiple dimming modules 300. As shown in Figures 10A and 10B, the dimming module 300 includes a first mark 3701 provided on a substrate. That is, the first mark 3701 can be provided on the first substrate 311 or the second substrate 321. For example, the first mark 3701 is provided on the first substrate 311.

[0184] As shown in FIG10A , the first mark 3701 may be a protrusion provided on the first substrate 311 , and the material of the first mark may be the same as the material of the sealant layer 340 and / or the second edge sealing glue 602 , or, as shown in FIG10B , the first mark 3701 may also be a groove or a via provided on the first substrate 311 , and the embodiments of the present disclosure are not listed one by one.

[0185] The shape of the first mark 3701 can be a circle, a triangle, an arrow, a regular polygon, a five-pointed star or a cross, which are not listed one by one in the embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0186] For ease of description, as shown in FIG9 , one of the two adjacent dimming modules 300 is a first dimming module 301, and the other is a second dimming module 302. The first mark 3701 of the first dimming module 301 and the first mark 3701 of the second dimming module 302 are staggered. In this manner, the angle between the orientation direction of the orientation layer of the first dimming module 301 and the orientation direction of the orientation layer of the second dimming module 302 can be a preset angle. For example, the preset angle is 80° to 100°, for example, 80°, 85°, 90°, 95°, or 100°.

[0187] For example, as shown in Figure 9, when the dimming device 1000 includes only two dimming modules 300, the first mark 3701 of the first dimming module 301 and the first mark 3701 of the second dimming module 302 are staggered, so that the orientation direction of the first orientation layer of the first dimming module 301 and the orientation direction of the orientation layer of the second dimming module 302 can be perpendicular, that is, the orientation directions of the first orientation layers 313 of the two dimming modules 300 are perpendicular.

[0188] When the dimming module 300 includes a circuit board 360, the first mark of the dimming module 300 and the circuit board 360 are arranged on the same side of the first substrate 100. In this way, when the dimming module 300 is applied to a vehicle window glass, the circuit board 360 and the first mark can be hidden by the structure of the vehicle door.

[0189] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG11 , the curvature of the dimming device 1000 along a first direction X is 12 mm / m to 39 mm / m. For example, the curvature of the dimming device 1000 along the first direction X is 12 mm / m, 18 mm / m, 25 mm / m, or 39 mm / m. The curvature of the dimming device 1000 along a second direction X is 19 mm / m to 26 mm / m. For example, the curvature of the dimming device 1000 along the second direction Y is 19 mm / m, 21 mm / m, 24 mm / m, or 26 mm / m. The first direction X intersects the second direction Y. For example, the first direction is perpendicular to the second direction Y.

[0190] On this basis, the dimming device 1000 includes multiple dimming modules 300. When the dimming device 1000 is bent, the boundaries of the multiple dimming modules 300 are aligned. In other words, when the dimming device 1000 is flattened, the boundaries of the multiple dimming modules 300 are not aligned, that is, some dimming modules 300 are larger than others. To ensure that the boundaries of the multiple dimming modules 300 are aligned after the dimming device 1000 is bent, the multiple dimming modules 300 need to be stacked in a specific order when the dimming device 1000 is flattened. In other words, the multiple dimming modules 300 need to be stacked in a predetermined stacking order.

[0191] For the convenience of description, as shown in FIG11 , one of the two adjacent dimming modules 300 is the third dimming module 303 , and the other is the fourth dimming module 304 .

[0192] In some examples, as shown in FIG12A , the third dimming module 303 includes a second mark 3801 disposed on a substrate of the third dimming module 303 , that is, the second mark 3801 is disposed on the first substrate 311 of the third dimming module 303 . Alternatively, the second mark 3801 is disposed on the second substrate 321 of the third dimming module 303 .

[0193] In this manner, the second mark 3801 can enable the third dimming module 303 and the fourth dimming module 304 to be stacked in a preset stacking order.

[0194] The second mark 3801 may be a protrusion provided on the second substrate 321 , or the second mark 3801 may be a groove or a via provided on the second substrate 321 , which are not listed one by one in the embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0195] The shape of the second mark 3801 can be a circle, a triangle, an arrow, a regular polygon, a five-pointed star or a cross, which are not listed one by one in the embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0196] In other examples, as shown in FIG12B , the fourth dimming module 304 includes a second mark 3901 disposed on the substrate of the third dimming module 303 , that is, the second mark 3901 is disposed on the first substrate 311 of the fourth dimming module 304 . Alternatively, the second mark 3801 is disposed on the second substrate 321 of the fourth dimming module 304 .

[0197] In this manner, the second mark 3901 can enable the third dimming module 303 and the fourth dimming module 304 to be stacked in a preset stacking order.

[0198] The second mark 3901 may be a protrusion provided on the third substrate, or the second mark 3901 may be a groove provided on the third substrate, which are not listed one by one in the embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0199] The shape of the second mark 3901 can be a circle, a triangle, an arrow, a regular polygon, a five-pointed star or a cross, which are not listed one by one in the embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0200] In yet other examples, as shown in FIG12C , the third dimming module 303 includes a second mark 3801 disposed on the substrate of the third dimming module 303, and the fourth dimming module 304 includes a second mark 3901 disposed on the substrate of the third dimming module 303. In this manner, the second mark 3801 and the second mark 3901 cooperate with each other to enable the third dimming module 303 and the fourth dimming module 304 to be stacked in a predetermined stacking order.

[0201] It should be noted that the third dimming module 303 can be the first dimming module or the second dimming module 302 described above, that is, the substrate of one dimming module 300 is provided with the first mark and the second mark 3801. The fourth dimming module 304 can be the first dimming module 301 or the second dimming module 302 described above, that is, the substrate of one dimming module 300 is provided with the first mark and the second mark 3901.

[0202] When the dimming module 300 includes a circuit board 360, the circuit board 360 and the second mark and / or the third mark are disposed on the same side of the first substrate 100. In this manner, when the dimming module 300 is applied to a vehicle window glass, the circuit board 360 and the second mark and / or the third mark can be hidden by the structure of the vehicle door.

[0203] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG8A , the dimming device 1000 further includes an anti-reflection film 900. The anti-reflection film 900 is disposed on a side of the first substrate 100 or the second substrate 200 that is away from the other. In other words, the anti-reflection film 900 is disposed on a side of the first substrate 100 away from the second substrate 200. Alternatively, the anti-reflection film 900 is disposed on a side of the second substrate 200 away from the first substrate 100. Alternatively, the anti-reflection film 900 is partially disposed on a side of the first substrate 100 away from the second substrate 200 and partially disposed on a side of the second substrate 200 away from the first substrate 100. For example, the anti-reflection film 900 is disposed on a side of the second substrate 200 away from the first substrate 100.

[0204] The anti-reflection film 900 is configured to reduce the reflectivity of the dimming device 1000. In this manner, the risk of reflection imaging of the dimming device 1000 can be reduced.

[0205] In some embodiments, the anti-reflection film 900 includes any one of an anti-reflection film, a moth-eye anti-reflection film, and an anti-glare anti-reflection film.

[0206] In some examples, the anti-reflection film 900 includes an anti-reflection film. The anti-reflection film includes at least one anti-reflection layer, for example, the anti-reflection film includes one anti-reflection layer, two anti-reflection layers, or three anti-reflection layers. The embodiments of the present disclosure are not listed one by one.

[0207] Exemplarily, the anti-reflection and anti-reflection film includes two anti-reflection layers, that is, the anti-reflection and anti-reflection film includes a first anti-reflection layer and a second anti-reflection layer.

[0208] The wavelength of visible light incident on the dimming device 1000 is λ1, the refractive index of the first anti-reflection layer is n1, and the thickness of the first anti-reflection layer is d1. λ1, n1, and d1 satisfy d1 = λ1 / (4n1). A second anti-reflection layer is disposed on the side of the first anti-reflection layer away from the dimming module 300. The refractive index of the second anti-reflection layer is n2, which is less than that of the first anti-reflection layer. The thickness of the second anti-reflection layer is d2. λ1, n2, and d2 satisfy d2 = λ1 / (4n2). This arrangement can reduce the reflectivity of the dimming device 1000.

[0209] For example, the anti-reflection film includes six anti-reflection layers. The six anti-reflection layers are stacked along the first direction X. For example, the six anti-reflection layers are respectively the second anti-reflection layer, the first anti-reflection layer, the first anti-reflection layer, the second anti-reflection layer, the first anti-reflection layer, and the third anti-reflection layer along the direction from the first substrate 100 to the second substrate 200. The refractive index of the second anti-reflection layer is greater than the refractive index of the third anti-reflection layer. For example, the side material of the first anti-reflection layer is zirconium dioxide (English: ZrO2) with a refractive index n2 of 2, the side material of the second anti-reflection layer is aluminum oxide (English: Al2O3) with a refractive index n4 of 1.62, and the side material of the third anti-reflection layer is magnesium fluoride (English: MgF2) with a refractive index n5 of 1.38.

[0210] Based on the above structure, the dimming device 1000 was tested and the following test results were obtained: As shown in FIG13A , the refractive index of the dimming device 1000 for light with a wavelength of 400 nm to 600 nm is less than 0.5%.

[0211] For example, the anti-reflection and anti-reflection film includes eight anti-reflection layers. The eight anti-reflection layers are stacked along a first direction X. For example, the eight anti-reflection layers along the direction from the first substrate 100 to the second substrate 200 are the second anti-reflection layer, the first anti-reflection layer, the first anti-reflection layer, the second anti-reflection layer, the first anti-reflection layer, the second anti-reflection layer, the first anti-reflection layer, and the third anti-reflection layer.

[0212] Based on the above structure, the dimming device 1000 was tested and the following test results were obtained: As shown in FIG13B , the refractive index of the dimming device 1000 for light with a wavelength of 400 nm to 700 nm is less than 0.3%.

[0213] The embodiments of the present disclosure also provide a dimming device 1000. The difference between the dimming device 1000 and the dimming device 1000 described above is that the dimming device 1000 only includes the second edge sealing glue of the first edge sealing glue and the second edge sealing glue. As shown in Figures 14A, 14B and 14C, the second edge sealing glue 602 is arranged around the dimming module 300 and is bonded to the side wall of the dimming module 300. The material of the second edge sealing glue 602 is different from the material of the first adhesive layer 400 and the second adhesive layer 500. The material of the second edge sealing glue 602 may include a thermosetting material, for example, the material of the second edge sealing glue 602 includes epoxy resin.

[0214] It should be noted that the outer boundary of the orthographic projection of the second edge sealant 602 on the first reference surface is spaced apart from the first boundary 101 . Alternatively, the outer boundary of the orthographic projection of the second edge sealant 602 on the first reference surface is flush with the first boundary 101 .

[0215] In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 15A to 16D , the outer boundary of the orthographic projection of the second edge sealant 602 on the first reference surface is substantially flush with at least a portion of the outer boundary of the orthographic projection of the first substrate 100 on the first reference surface. This arrangement can further shorten the frame width of the dimming device 1000.

[0216] In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 15A to 16D , the boundaries of the orthographic projection of the first substrate 100 on the first reference surface include a plurality of sequentially connected first boundaries 101 . As shown in Figures 15A and 16A , one first boundary 101 is approximately flush with the outer boundary of the orthographic projection of the second edge sealant 602 on the first reference surface. Alternatively, as shown in Figures 15B and 16B , two boundaries are approximately flush with the outer boundaries of the orthographic projection of the second edge sealant 602 on the first reference surface. The two boundaries can be adjacent or opposite. Alternatively, as shown in Figures 15C and 16C , three boundaries are approximately flush with the outer boundaries of the orthographic projection of the second edge sealant 602 on the first reference surface. Alternatively, as shown in Figures 15D and 16D , four boundaries are approximately flush with the outer boundaries of the orthographic projection of the second edge sealant 602 on the first reference surface.

[0217] Based on the above structure, as shown in FIG17 , the preparation method of the dimming device 1000 includes: S400 to S700.

[0218] S400: preparing the dimming module 300.

[0219] S500 : forming a second edge-sealing adhesive 602 on the circumferential sidewall of the dimming module 300 by using a coating process.

[0220] In the above steps, the second edge-sealing adhesive 602 is disposed between the first substrate 100 and the second substrate 200 . The second edge-sealing adhesive 602 surrounds the dimming module 300 and covers the sidewalls of the dimming module 300 .

[0221] S600: forming a second dimming device stack.

[0222] In the above steps, the second substrate 200 , the second adhesive layer 500 , the dimming module 300 coated with the second edge-sealing adhesive 602 , the first adhesive layer 400 , and the first substrate 100 are stacked in sequence.

[0223] S700: stacking the second dimming devices to form the dimming device 1000.

[0224] In the above steps, the dimming module 300 , the first substrate 100 and the second substrate 200 are assembled using an autoclave, so that the dimming module 300 is connected to the first substrate 100 and the second substrate 200 .

[0225] The dimension of the second edge sealant 602 formed by the above-described preparation method along the third direction Z is less than or equal to the dimension of the dimming module 300 along the third direction Z. That is, along the third direction Z, the ends of the second edge sealant 602 are roughly flush with the ends of the dimming module 300; alternatively, the ends of the second edge sealant 602 are indented relative to the ends of the dimming module 300. This ensures that during the assembly process, the second edge sealant 602 does not block the stress release of the first adhesive layer 400, ensuring that the distance between the first substrate 100 and the dimming module 300 is uniform throughout. This helps improve the thickness uniformity of the first adhesive layer 400 after assembly, thereby ensuring greater force uniformity on the dye liquid crystal layer 330 and reducing the risk of black spots on the dye liquid crystal layer 330. The third direction Z is perpendicular to the first substrate 100.

[0226] The second edge sealant 602 covers the sidewalls of the dimming module 300, that is, the second edge sealant 602 is attached to the sidewalls of the dimming module 300. At this time, during the assembly process, the second edge sealant 602 and the dimming module 300 expand and contract synchronously, thereby reducing the risk of collision between the dimming module 300 and the second edge sealant 602.

[0227] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG14A , the orthographic projection of the dimming module 300 on the first reference plane is located within the orthographic projection of the first substrate 100 on the first reference plane and is spaced from the boundary of the orthographic projection. The second edge sealant 602 is disposed around the first substrate layer 310 and the second substrate layer 320 and is bonded to the circumferential sidewalls of the first substrate layer 310 and the second substrate layer 320.

[0228] In other embodiments, as shown in FIG14B , the second edge sealant 602 is disposed between the first substrate layer 310 and the second substrate layer 320 and is bonded to the first substrate layer 310 and the second substrate layer 320. The second edge sealant 602 is disposed around the sealant layer 340 and is bonded to the sealant layer 340. The outer boundary of the orthographic projection of the second edge sealant 602 on the first reference surface is flush with the boundary of the orthographic projection of the first substrate layer 310 on the first reference surface.

[0229] At this time, the boundary of the orthographic projection of the first substrate layer 310 on the first reference plane may be flush with the first boundary 101 .

[0230] In yet other embodiments, as shown in FIG14C , the orthographic projection of the dimming module 300 on the first reference plane is located within the orthographic projection of the first substrate 100 on the first reference plane and is spaced from the boundary of the orthographic projection. The second edge sealant 602 includes a first sub-portion 6021 and a second sub-portion 6022 connected to each other. The first sub-portion 6021 surrounds the first and second substrate layers 310 and 320 and is bonded to the circumferential sidewalls of the first and second substrate layers 310 and 320. The second sub-portion 6022 is disposed between the first and second substrate layers 310 and 320 and is bonded to the first and second substrate layers 310 and 320. The second sub-portion 6022 surrounds the sealant layer 340 and is bonded to the sealant layer 340.

[0231] In some embodiments, the embodiments of the present disclosure further provide a dimming structure, which includes the dimming device 1000 of any of the above embodiments, and the dimming structure includes one of a skylight, a curtain wall, a rail transportation vehicle, a car, and a billboard.

[0232] The dimming device 1000 can be used in the construction industry. For example, the dimming device 1000 can be used in skylights or curtain walls, or in partition glass. Compared to the use of brick walls to separate rooms in the construction industry, the dimming device 1000 in the disclosed embodiments is thinner, thus saving space. A company logo can also be displayed on partition glass. In this case, the dimming structure including the dimming device 1000 can be, for example, a skylight, curtain wall, or the like.

[0233] The dimming device 1000 can also be used in the transportation field. For example, the dimming device 1000 can be used in rail vehicles or automobiles. Rail vehicles can include subways, light rails, skytrains, trams, and maglev trains, and the embodiments of this disclosure do not list them one by one. Automobiles can include passenger cars, commercial vehicles, trucks, or buses, and the embodiments of this disclosure do not list them one by one. In this case, the dimming structure including the dimming device 1000 can be, for example, a rail vehicle, automobile, etc.

[0234] The embodiments of the present disclosure illustrate a dimming structure using an automobile 2000 as an example. As shown in FIG18 , automobile 2000 includes a vehicle body 2010 and a window glass 220 mounted on vehicle body 2010. Window glass 220 can be one or more of the vehicle's front window, sunroof, rear window, or side window. Window glass 220 includes a dimming device 1000 according to any of the aforementioned embodiments. Dimming device 1000 can also be used on the central control touchscreen in automobile 2000.

[0235] Some embodiments of the present disclosure provide a dimming module 300 . As shown in FIG. 19 , the dimming module 300 includes a first substrate 311 , a second substrate 321 and a dimming function layer 370 .

[0236] As shown in FIG19 , the second substrate 321 is disposed opposite to the first substrate 311. The material of the second substrate 321 can be the same as that of the first substrate 311. For example, the second substrate 321 and the first substrate 311 can both include polyimide. This improves the material uniformity of the dimming module 300 and reduces the manufacturing cost of the dimming module 300.

[0237] The dimming function layer 370 is disposed between the first substrate 311 and the second substrate 321 .

[0238] In the related art, the dimming function layer includes a third glue frame and a dye liquid crystal layer. The third glue frame surrounds the dye liquid crystal layer. The dye liquid crystal layer includes dye molecules and liquid crystal molecules, and the dye molecules and liquid crystal molecules are fluid. On the one hand, during the process of cutting the dimming module, at least part of the dye molecules and at least part of the liquid crystal molecules at the cut part of the dimming module will be lost. The interaction force between the liquid crystal molecules will cause some dye molecules and some liquid crystal molecules at the uncut part of the dimming module to be lost, thereby causing damage to the dimming function layer. On the other hand, when the dimming module is subjected to force, the liquid crystal molecules in the area of ​​the dimming module with heavy force move to the area of ​​the dimming module with lighter force, and the dye molecules and liquid crystal molecules in the dye liquid crystal layer are stacked in the area with lighter force, causing black spots to appear on the dimming module.

[0239] In order to solve the above problems, as shown in FIG. 19 , some embodiments of the present disclosure provide a dimming function layer 370 including a transparent adhesive layer 371 and a plurality of first particles 372 .

[0240] As shown in FIG19 , a transparent adhesive layer 371 is used to bond the first substrate 311 to the second substrate 321. The material of the transparent adhesive layer 371 may include an adhesive material with high light transmittance, such as optically clear adhesive (OCA), optical clear resin (OCR), polyvinyl butyral (PVB), ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA), Sentry Glas Plus (SGP), or pressure sensitive adhesive (PSA). These materials are not listed in detail in the embodiments of the present disclosure. For example, the material of the transparent adhesive layer 371 includes PVB.

[0241] As shown in FIG. 19 , a plurality of first particles 372 are disposed in a transparent adhesive layer 371 . In this way, the transparent adhesive layer 371 can fix the plurality of first particles 372 , thereby reducing the risk of the plurality of first particles 372 colliding with each other.

[0242] As shown in FIG19 , the first particles 372 include a plurality of first liquid crystal molecules 3721 , a plurality of first dye molecules 3722 and a first shell 3723 (in FIG19 , white ellipses represent the first liquid crystal molecules 3721 , and black ellipses represent the first dye molecules 3722 ).

[0243] The first liquid crystal molecules 3721 may be positive or negative liquid crystal molecules. The dielectric constant of a positive liquid crystal molecule along its long axis is greater than that along its short axis. When an external electric field is applied to the positive liquid crystal molecules, the long axis of the positive liquid crystal molecules deflects parallel to the direction of the electric field. The dielectric constant of a negative liquid crystal molecule along its long axis is less than that along its short axis. When an external electric field is applied to the negative liquid crystal molecules, the long axis of the negative liquid crystal molecules deflects perpendicular to the direction of the electric field. The first liquid crystal molecules 3721 may be nematic or cholesteric liquid crystal molecules.

[0244] The material of the first dye molecule 3722 includes an azo dye, an anthraquinone dye, a benzothiophene dye, a benzothiadiazole dye, or a polypyrrole dye, which are not listed one by one in the embodiments of the present disclosure. The first dye molecule 3722 is a positive dye molecule or a negative dye molecule 322. The absorbance of the positive dye molecule along its long axis is greater than the absorbance along its short axis. In other words, when the long axis of the positive dye molecule is perpendicular to the first substrate 311, the absorbance of the positive dye molecule is minimum. When the long axis of the positive dye molecule is parallel to the first substrate 311, the absorbance of the positive dye molecule is maximum. The absorbance of the negative dye molecule 322 along its long axis is less than the absorbance along its short axis. In other words, when the long axis of the negative dye molecule 322 is perpendicular to the first substrate 311, the absorbance of the negative dye molecule 322 is maximum. When the long axis of the negative dye molecule 322 is parallel to the first substrate 311, the absorbance of the negative dye molecule 322 is minimum.

[0245] As shown in FIG. 19 , a plurality of first liquid crystal molecules 3721 and a plurality of first dye molecules 3722 are disposed in the first housing 3723 .

[0246] The material of the first shell 3723 may include polylactic acid (PLA), poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid), PLGA, polycaprolactone (PLA), polymethacrylates, polystyrene (PS), polyethylene glycol (PEG), polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), polyacrylic acid (PPA), polylactic acid-polycaprolactone, polyacrylamide-co-acrylic acid, polylactic acid-polyglycolic acid, or polyether sulfide. The embodiments of the present disclosure are not listed one by one.

[0247] The shape of the first shell 3723 can be a sphere, a cube, a prism, a pyramid, a regular polyhedron or an irregular shape. The embodiments of the present disclosure are not listed one by one.

[0248] The following takes the shape of the first shell 3723 as a sphere as an example to schematically illustrate some embodiments of the present disclosure, but the implementation of the present disclosure is not limited to this, and any other shapes of the first shell 3723 can also be considered as long as the same technical concept is applied.

[0249] As shown in Figure 19, in the absence of an external electric field acting on the first liquid crystal molecules 3721, the anchoring force of the first shell 3723 on the first liquid crystal molecules 3721 causes the first liquid crystal molecules 3721 to be arranged in a disordered manner. In other words, the long axes of the first liquid crystal molecules 3721 extend radially along the first shell 3723. In this way, the first liquid crystal molecules 3721 within the first shell 3723 scatter light incident on the first particles 372, thereby increasing the haze of the dimming module 300 and better protecting user privacy. The first dye molecules 3722 can also absorb natural light incident on the dimming functional layer 370, reducing the transmittance of the dimming functional layer 370.

[0250] Arranged in this manner, the first shell 3723 separates the multiple first liquid crystal molecules 3721 and the multiple first dye molecules 3722 in the dimming functional layer 370 into independent entities. In other words, the first particles 372 are independent of each other and do not affect each other. On the one hand, during the cutting process of the dimming module 300, the first liquid crystal molecules 3721 in the first particles 372 at the cut site cannot cause the first liquid crystal molecules 3721 in the first particles 372 at the uncut site to dissipate. Therefore, some embodiments of the present disclosure provide a dimming module 300 that can be cut arbitrarily. On the other hand, when the dimming module 300 is subjected to force, the first liquid crystal molecules 3721 in the first particles 372 in the heavily stressed areas of the dimming module 300 cannot migrate to the first particles 372 in the less stressed areas of the dimming module 300. This can alleviate the problem of first liquid crystal molecules 3721 stacking in the less stressed areas and reduce the risk of dark spots appearing in the dimming module 300 due to stacking of first liquid crystal molecules 3721.

[0251] In some embodiments, the transparent adhesive layer 371 has high rigidity, meaning that the transparent adhesive layer 371 is not easily deformed. When the dimming module 300 is subjected to stress, the high rigidity of the transparent adhesive layer 371 can prevent the first particles 372 in the transparent adhesive layer 371 from being subjected to stress or from being subjected to minimal stress. Consequently, the first liquid crystal molecules 3721 in the first particles 372 are not subjected to stress or from being subjected to minimal stress, thereby improving the problem of the first liquid crystal molecules 3721 stacking in areas with less stress.

[0252] In other embodiments, the first housing 3723 has greater rigidity, that is, the first housing 3723 is less likely to deform. When the dimming module 300 is subjected to stress, the greater rigidity of the first housing 3723 can prevent the first liquid crystal molecules 3721 in the first housing 3723 from being subjected to stress or from being subjected to less stress, thereby improving the problem of the first liquid crystal molecules 3721 stacking in areas with less stress.

[0253] In some other embodiments, the transparent adhesive layer 371 has relatively high rigidity, and the first housing 3723 also has relatively high rigidity. The transparent adhesive layer 371 and the first housing 3723 can prevent the first particles 372 in the transparent adhesive layer 371 from being subjected to stress or to relatively low stress, thereby preventing the first liquid crystal molecules 3721 in the first particles 372 from being subjected to stress or to relatively low stress, thereby improving the problem of the first liquid crystal molecules 3721 stacking in areas with relatively low stress.

[0254] In some embodiments, as shown in Figure 19, the dimming module 300 may further include a fourth glue frame 380. The fourth glue frame 380 is arranged between the first substrate 311 and the second substrate 321. The fourth glue frame 380 is arranged around the transparent adhesive layer 371. The fourth glue frame 380 can improve the problem of external water vapor entering the transparent adhesive layer 371 and reduce the risk of material aging of the transparent adhesive layer 371.

[0255] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 20 , the method for preparing the first particles 372 includes: S300 to S400 .

[0256] As shown in FIG. 20 , S300 : forming first liquid crystal molecules 3721 and first dye molecules 3722 .

[0257] Illustratively, S300 includes: S310 to S320.

[0258] S310: adding a dichroic dye to the liquid crystal molecules.

[0259] The mass fraction ratio of the dichroic dye to the liquid crystal molecules is less than or equal to 10%. For example, the mass fraction ratio is 1%, 1.4%, 2.1%, 3.2%, 4.4%, 5.8%, 6%, 7%, 81%, 9%, or 10%. The embodiments of the present disclosure are not listed one by one.

[0260] S320: Heating the liquid crystal molecules and the dichroic dye.

[0261] The heating temperature is greater than or equal to the temperature of the clearing point of the liquid crystal molecules. Part of the liquid crystal molecules forms the first liquid crystal molecules 3721, and the remaining part forms the first dye molecules 3722.

[0262] During the heating process, the liquid crystal molecules and the dichroic dye may be stirred to fully mix the liquid crystal molecules and the dichroic dye, thereby shortening the formation time of the first liquid crystal molecules 3721 and the first dye molecules 3722 .

[0263] S400: forming first particles 372 .

[0264] Illustratively, S400 includes: S410 to S460.

[0265] S410: mixing and stirring the first liquid crystal molecules 3721, the first dye molecules 3722 and the polymer.

[0266] The material of the polymer may be the same as that of the first shell 3723 , and the embodiments of the present disclosure will not list them one by one.

[0267] S420: The emulsifier and deionized water are mixed and stirred.

[0268] Among them, the materials of the emulsifier may include sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS), alkylphenol polyoxyethylene ether (TritonX-100), polysorbate (Tween), gelatin or glyceryl stearate (GMS), which are not listed one by one in the embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0269] S430: adding the mixture including the first liquid crystal molecules 3721 to the mixture including the emulsifier.

[0270] S440: emulsifying the mixture including the first liquid crystal molecules 3721 and the emulsifier.

[0271] Illustratively, S440 includes S441 to S442.

[0272] S441: placing a mixture including the first liquid crystal molecules 3721 and the emulsifier into a high-speed emulsifier.

[0273] The rotation speed of the high-efficiency emulsifier can be 5000 r / min to 50000 r / min.

[0274] For example, the rotational speed is 5000 r / min, 6000 r / min, 8000 r / min, 10000 r / min, 15000 r / min, 20000 r / min, 25000 r / min, 30000 r / min, 35000 r / min, 40000 r / min or 50000 r / min, which are not listed one by one in the embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0275] The emulsification time can be 1 min to 10 min.

[0276] For example, the emulsification time is 1 min, 1.5 min, 2 min, 2.5 min, 3.5 min, 5 min, 6 min, 8 min, 9 min or 10 min, which are not listed one by one in the embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0277] S442: heating and stirring the mixture including the first liquid crystal molecules 3721 and the emulsifier in a water bath.

[0278] The temperature of the water bath may be 40°C to 80°C.

[0279] For example, the temperature is 40°C, 44°C, 45°C, 48°C, 50°C, 55°C, 60°C, 70°C or 80°C, which are not listed one by one in the embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0280] The speed of the high-efficiency emulsifier is reduced to 1000r / min~3000r / min.

[0281] For example, the rotation speed is 1000 r / min, 1500 r / min, 1600 r / min, 1800 r / min, 1900 r / min, 2000 r / min, 2500 r / min or 3000 r / min. The embodiments of the present disclosure are not listed one by one.

[0282] S450: heating the mixture including the first liquid crystal molecules 3721 and the emulsifier, and adding a free radical initiator aqueous solution.

[0283] The heating temperature of the mixture including the first liquid crystal molecules 3721 and the emulsifier is greater than or equal to the clearing point temperature of the first liquid crystal molecules 3721 .

[0284] The speed of the high-efficiency emulsifier is reduced to 100r / min~500r / min.

[0285] For example, the rotation speed is 100 r / min, 120 r / min, 150 r / min, 180 r / min, 210 r / min, 260 r / min, 300 r / min, 360 r / min, 400 r / min, 440 r / min, or 500 r / min.

[0286] The material of the free radical initiator may include peroxide, nitrite or persulfate, which are not listed one by one in the embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0287] S460: washing the mixture after adding the free radical initiator aqueous solution by multiple sedimentation.

[0288] It is understood that the order of step S210 and step S220 can be reversed. That is, S210 and S220 can be performed sequentially. S220 can also be performed first and then S210. S210 and S220 can also be performed simultaneously.

[0289] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG21 , the plurality of first liquid crystal molecules 3721 form a second helical structure. The anchoring force of the first shell 3723 on the plurality of first liquid crystal molecules 3721 can cause the extension direction of the second helical structure to be approximately parallel to the radial direction of the first shell 3723. In this case, the long axis of the first liquid crystal molecules 3721 is approximately perpendicular to the radial direction of the first shell 3723, and the long axis of the first dye molecules 3722 is approximately perpendicular to the radial direction of the first shell 3723.

[0290] When natural light is incident perpendicular to the first substrate 311, the propagation direction of most of the natural light entering the first housing 3723 is approximately perpendicular to the long axis direction of the first dye molecules 3722. In this manner, the plurality of first dye molecules 3722 can absorb most of the natural light entering the dimming layer 370, thereby further reducing the dark-state transmittance of the dimming layer 370.

[0291] The following describes how the plurality of first liquid crystal molecules 3721 form the second helical structure.

[0292] In some examples, the first liquid crystal molecules 3721 are nematic liquid crystal molecules, and the first particles 372 further include a chiral agent disposed within the first shell 3723 , which can cause the nematic liquid crystal molecules to form a second helical structure.

[0293] In other examples, the first liquid crystal molecules 3721 are cholesteric liquid crystal molecules, which form a second helical structure. In other words, the first particles 372 do not need to be added with a chiral agent, and the cholesteric liquid crystal molecules can form the second helical structure.

[0294] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG22 , the dimming functional layer 370 further includes a plurality of second particles 373 , which are disposed on one side of the plurality of first particles 372 along a third direction Z. The plurality of second particles 373 may be disposed on a side of the first particles 372 away from the first substrate 311 , or on a side of the first particles 372 closer to the first substrate 311 . The third direction Z is perpendicular to the dimming functional layer 370 .

[0295] For example, as shown in Figure 22, the plurality of second particles 373 are disposed on a side of the first particles 372 away from the first substrate 311, that is, the plurality of second particles 373 are disposed on the upper side of the first particles 372. The plurality of second particles 373 are disposed in the transparent adhesive layer 371. This arrangement can reduce the risk of the plurality of second particles 373 colliding with each other.

[0296] As shown in FIG22 , the second particles 373 include a second shell 3731 and second liquid crystal molecules 3732. The material of the second shell 3731 can be the same as that of the first shell 3723, and the type of the second liquid crystal molecules 3732 can be the same as that of the first liquid crystal molecules 3721. This improves the material uniformity of the dimming functional layer 370 and reduces the manufacturing cost of the dimming functional layer 370.

[0297] As shown in Figure 22, multiple second liquid crystal molecules 3732 are disposed within the second housing 3731, forming a first helical structure. The wavelength of infrared light incident on the dimming module 300 is λ2, the pitch of the first helical structure is P, and the refractive index of the second liquid crystal molecules 3732 is n3. Here, λ2, P, and n3 satisfy the following: λ2 = n3P. Generally, the wavelength of infrared light is greater than 800 nm, and the refractive index of the second liquid crystal molecules 3732 is between 1.5 and 1.8. Using the formula λ1 = n1P, the pitch P of the first helical structure is in the nanometer range.

[0298] In this manner, the second particles 373 can reflect infrared light with a wavelength of λ2, thereby reducing the transmittance of infrared light of the dimming functional layer 370 and thereby improving the heat insulation capability of the dimming functional layer 370 .

[0299] In other embodiments, as shown in FIG23 , the first particles 372 further include a fifth shell 3724 and second liquid crystal molecules 3732. The fifth shell 3724 is disposed around the first shell 3723 with a gap between the fifth shell 3724 and the first shell 3723. The material of the fifth shell 3724 can be the same as that of the first shell 3723, thereby improving the material consistency of the dimming functional layer 370 and reducing the manufacturing cost of the dimming functional layer 370.

[0300] The second liquid crystal molecules 3732 are disposed between the first housing 3723 and the fifth housing 3724, forming a first helical structure. The wavelength of infrared light entering the dimming module 300 is λ2, the pitch of the first helical structure is P, and the refractive index of the second liquid crystal molecules 3732 is n3. Here, λ1, P, and n1 satisfy: λ2 = n3P. Generally, the wavelength of infrared light is greater than 800 nm, and the refractive index of the second liquid crystal molecules 3732 is between 1.5 and 1.8. Using the formula λ1 = n1P, the pitch P of the first helical structure is in the nanometer range.

[0301] Arranged in this manner, the first particles 372 can, on the one hand, reflect infrared light with a wavelength of λ2, thereby reducing the infrared light transmittance of the dimming functional layer 370 and thereby improving the thermal insulation capability of the dimming functional layer 370. Furthermore, compared to the case where the second liquid crystal molecules 3732 are arranged on one side of the first liquid crystal molecules 3721 along the third direction Z, the second liquid crystal molecules 3732 provided in the embodiments of the present disclosure can also be arranged on both sides of the first liquid crystal molecules 3721 along the first direction X, thereby reducing the thickness of the dimming functional layer 370 and the thickness of the dimming module 300. The first direction X is perpendicular to the third direction Z.

[0302] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 22 and FIG. 23 , a plurality of first liquid crystal molecules 3721 form a second helical structure, and a plurality of second liquid crystal molecules 3732 form a first helical structure.

[0303] When an electric field is applied to the dimming functional layer 370, and the applied electric field strength is less than the threshold electric field strength corresponding to the helical structure, the plurality of liquid crystal molecules maintain their initial state. That is, the helical structure formed by the liquid crystal molecules is not destroyed. The initial state refers to the state of the liquid crystal molecules in the absence of an applied electric field.

[0304] When an electric field is applied to the dimming functional layer 370 and the applied electric field strength is greater than or equal to the threshold electric field strength corresponding to the spiral structure, the spiral structure formed by the liquid crystal molecules is destroyed, and the long axis directions of the liquid crystal molecules are perpendicular to the first substrate 311.

[0305] It should be noted that, the larger the pitch of the helical structure, the greater the threshold electric field strength corresponding to the helical structure.

[0306] The pitch of the first helical structure is greater or less than the pitch of the second helical structure. By varying the electric field intensity applied to the dimming functional layer 370 in this manner, the dimming functional layer 370 can achieve the effects of no heat insulation and no light shielding, heat insulation but no light shielding, light shielding but no heat insulation, or heat insulation and light shielding, thereby expanding the scope of use of the dimming functional layer 370.

[0307] In some examples, the pitch of the first helical structure is greater than the pitch of the second helical structure.

[0308] As shown in Figures 22 and 23, when the applied electric field strength is less than the threshold electric field strength corresponding to the first helical structure, the first liquid crystal molecules 3721 maintain their initial state. That is, the second helical structure is not destroyed, and the dimming functional layer 370 can achieve a light-shielding effect. The second liquid crystal molecules 3732 also maintain their initial state. That is, the first helical structure is not destroyed, and the dimming functional layer 370 can achieve a heat-insulating effect. Overall, the dimming functional layer 370 can achieve both light-shielding and heat-insulating effects, making it suitable for summer use.

[0309] As shown in Figures 24 and 25, when the applied electric field strength is greater than or equal to the threshold electric field strength corresponding to the first helical structure and less than the threshold electric field strength corresponding to the second helical structure, the long axis direction of the second liquid crystal molecules 3732 is perpendicular to the first substrate 311, the first helical structure is destroyed, the second particles 373 cannot reflect infrared light, and the dimming functional layer 370 cannot achieve the thermal insulation effect. The first liquid crystal molecules 3721 maintain their initial state, that is, the second helical structure is not destroyed, and the dimming functional layer 370 can achieve the light-shielding effect. In short, the dimming functional layer 370 can achieve the light-shielding effect but not the thermal insulation effect.

[0310] As shown in Figures 26 and 27, when the applied electric field strength is greater than or equal to the threshold electric field strength corresponding to the second helical structure, the long axis direction of the second liquid crystal molecules 3732 is perpendicular to the first substrate 311, the first helical structure is destroyed, the second particles 373 cannot reflect infrared light, and the dimming functional layer 370 cannot achieve a heat-insulating effect. The long axis direction of the first liquid crystal molecules 3721 is perpendicular to the first substrate 311, and the long axis direction of the first dye molecules 3722 is perpendicular to the first substrate 311. The absorbance of the first dye molecules 3722 is minimal, the transmittance of the dimming functional layer 370 is maximized, and the dimming functional layer 370 cannot achieve a light-shielding effect. In general, the dimming functional layer 370 can achieve a non-light-shielding and non-heat-insulating effect, making it suitable for winter use.

[0311] In other examples, the pitch of the first helical structure is smaller than the pitch of the second helical structure.

[0312] As shown in Figures 22 and 23, when the applied electric field strength is less than the threshold electric field strength corresponding to the second helical structure, the first liquid crystal molecules 3721 maintain their initial state, that is, the second helical structure is not destroyed, and the dimming module can achieve a light-shielding effect. The second liquid crystal molecules 3732 also maintain their initial state, that is, the first helical structure is not destroyed, and the dimming functional layer 370 can achieve a heat-insulating effect. Overall, the dimming functional layer 370 can achieve both light-shielding and heat-insulating effects, making it suitable for summer use.

[0313] As shown in Figures 28 and 29, when the applied electric field strength is greater than or equal to the threshold electric field strength corresponding to the second helical structure and less than the threshold electric field strength corresponding to the first helical structure, the long axis of the first liquid crystal molecules 3721 is perpendicular to the first substrate 311, and the long axis of the first dye molecules 3722 is perpendicular to the first substrate 311. The absorbance of the first dye molecules 3722 is minimized, and the transmittance of the dimming functional layer 370 is maximized. The dimming functional layer 370 cannot achieve a light-shielding effect. The second liquid crystal molecules 3732 maintain their initial state. In other words, the first helical structure is not destroyed, and the dimming functional layer 370 can achieve a heat-insulating effect. In short, the dimming functional layer 370 can achieve a heat-insulating effect without light-shielding.

[0314] As shown in Figures 26 and 27, when the applied electric field strength is greater than or equal to the threshold electric field strength corresponding to the second helical structure, the long axis direction of the second liquid crystal molecules 3732 is perpendicular to the first substrate 311, the first helical structure is destroyed, the second particles 373 cannot reflect infrared light, and the dimming functional layer 370 cannot achieve a heat-insulating effect. The long axis direction of the first liquid crystal molecules 3721 is perpendicular to the first substrate 311, and the long axis direction of the first dye molecules 3722 is perpendicular to the first substrate 311. The absorbance of the first dye molecules 3722 is minimal, the transmittance of the dimming functional layer 370 is maximized, and the dimming functional layer 370 cannot achieve a light-shielding effect. In general, the dimming functional layer 370 can achieve a non-light-shielding and non-heat-insulating effect, making it suitable for winter use.

[0315] In other embodiments, the dielectric constant of the first liquid crystal molecules 3721 is different from the dielectric constant of the second liquid crystal molecules 3732 .

[0316] When an electric field is applied to the dimming functional layer 370 and the applied electric field strength is less than a threshold electric field strength corresponding to the dielectric constant, the liquid crystal molecules maintain their initial state.

[0317] When an electric field is applied to the dimming functional layer 370 and the applied electric field strength is greater than or equal to the threshold electric field strength corresponding to the dielectric constant, the long axis directions of the liquid crystal molecules are perpendicular to the first substrate 311 .

[0318] It should be noted that, the greater the dielectric constant of the liquid crystal molecules, the greater the threshold electric field strength corresponding to the dielectric constant.

[0319] The dielectric constant of the first liquid crystal molecules 3721 is greater than or less than the dielectric constant of the second liquid crystal molecules 3732. By varying the intensity of the electric field applied to the dimming functional layer 370 in this manner, the dimming functional layer 370 can achieve the effects of no heat insulation and no light shielding, heat insulation and no light shielding, light shielding and no heat insulation, or heat insulation and light shielding, thereby expanding the range of use of the dimming functional layer 370.

[0320] In some examples, the dielectric constant of the first liquid crystal molecules 3721 is greater than the dielectric constant of the second liquid crystal molecules 3732 .

[0321] As shown in Figures 22, 23, 30 and 31, when the applied electric field intensity is less than the threshold electric field intensity corresponding to the dielectric constant of the second liquid crystal molecules 3732, the first liquid crystal molecules 3721 maintain their initial state. That is, as shown in Figures 30 and 31, the first liquid crystal molecules 3721 are arranged in a disordered manner, or, as shown in Figures 22 and 23, the second spiral structure is not destroyed. The dimming functional layer 370 can achieve a light-shielding effect. The second liquid crystal molecules 3732 also maintain their initial state, that is, the first spiral structure is not destroyed, and the dimming functional layer 370 can achieve a heat-insulating effect. In general, the dimming functional layer 370 can achieve both light-shielding and heat-insulating effects, making it suitable for use in summer.

[0322] As shown in Figures 24, 25, 32, and 33, when the applied electric field strength is greater than or equal to the threshold electric field strength corresponding to the second liquid crystal molecules 3732 and less than the threshold electric field strength corresponding to the first liquid crystal molecules 3721, the long axis of the second liquid crystal molecules 3732 is perpendicular to the first substrate 311, the first helical structure is destroyed, the second particles 373 cannot reflect infrared light, and the dimming layer 370 cannot achieve the heat insulation effect. The first liquid crystal molecules 3721 maintain their initial state. In other words, as shown in Figures 32 and 33, the first liquid crystal molecules are disordered, or as shown in Figures 24 and 25, the second helical structure is intact. The dimming layer 370 can achieve a light-shielding effect. The first liquid crystal molecules 3721 maintain their initial state, that is, the second helical structure is intact, and the dimming layer 370 can achieve a heat-shielding effect. In summary, the dimming layer 370 can achieve a heat-insulating effect without blocking light.

[0323] As shown in Figures 26 and 27, when the applied electric field strength is greater than or equal to the threshold electric field strength corresponding to the second liquid crystal molecules 3732, the long axis of the second liquid crystal molecules 3732 is perpendicular to the first substrate 311, the first helical structure is destroyed, the second particles 373 cannot reflect infrared light, and the dimming functional layer 370 cannot achieve a heat-insulating effect. The long axis of the first liquid crystal molecules 3721 is perpendicular to the first substrate 311, and the long axis of the first dye molecules 3722 is perpendicular to the first substrate 311. The absorbance of the first dye molecules 3722 is minimized, the transmittance of the dimming functional layer 370 is maximized, and the dimming functional layer 370 cannot achieve a light-shielding effect. In general, the dimming functional layer 370 can achieve a non-light-shielding and non-heat-insulating effect, making it suitable for winter use.

[0324] In other examples, the dielectric constant of the first liquid crystal molecules 3721 is smaller than the dielectric constant of the second liquid crystal molecules 3732 .

[0325] As shown in Figures 22, 23, 30, and 31, when the applied electric field strength is less than the threshold electric field strength corresponding to the dielectric constant of the second liquid crystal molecules 3732, the first liquid crystal molecules 3721 maintain their initial state. That is, as shown in Figures 30 and 31, the first liquid crystal molecules 3721 are arranged in a disordered manner, or, as shown in Figures 22 and 23, the second helical structure is not destroyed, and the dimming functional layer 370 can achieve a light-shielding effect. The second liquid crystal molecules 3732 maintain their initial state, that is, the first helical structure is not destroyed, and the dimming functional layer 370 can achieve a heat-insulating effect. In general, the dimming functional layer 370 can achieve both light-shielding and heat-insulating effects, making it suitable for use in summer.

[0326] As shown in Figures 28 and 29, when the applied electric field strength is greater than or equal to the threshold electric field strength corresponding to the first liquid crystal molecules 3721 and less than the threshold electric field strength corresponding to the second liquid crystal molecules 3732, the long axis of the first liquid crystal molecules 3721 is perpendicular to the first substrate 311, and the long axis of the first dye molecules 3722 is perpendicular to the first substrate 311. The absorbance of the first dye molecules 3722 is minimized, and the transmittance of the dimming layer 370 is maximized. The dimming layer 370 cannot achieve a light-shielding effect. The second liquid crystal molecules 3732 maintain their initial state, that is, the first helical structure is not destroyed, and the dimming layer 370 can achieve a heat-insulating effect. In short, the dimming layer 370 can achieve a heat-insulating effect without light-shielding.

[0327] As shown in Figures 26 and 27, when the applied electric field strength is greater than or equal to the threshold electric field strength corresponding to the first liquid crystal molecules 3721, the long axis of the second liquid crystal molecules 3732 is perpendicular to the first substrate 311, the first helical structure is destroyed, the second particles 373 cannot reflect infrared light, and the dimming functional layer 370 cannot achieve a heat-insulating effect. The long axis of the first liquid crystal molecules 3721 is perpendicular to the first substrate 311, and the long axis of the first dye molecules 3722 is perpendicular to the first substrate 311. The absorbance of the first dye molecules 3722 is minimized, the transmittance of the dimming functional layer 370 is maximized, and the dimming functional layer 370 cannot achieve a light-shielding effect. In general, the dimming functional layer 370 can achieve a non-light-shielding and non-heat-insulating effect, making it suitable for winter use.

[0328] In some other embodiments, the plurality of first liquid crystal molecules 3721 form a second helical structure.

[0329] The pitch of the second helical structure is greater than or less than the pitch of the first helical structure, and the dielectric constant of the first liquid crystal molecule 3721 is greater than or less than the dielectric constant of the second liquid crystal molecule 3732. For example, the pitch of the second helical structure is greater than the pitch of the first helical structure, and the dielectric constant of the first liquid crystal molecule 3721 is greater than the dielectric constant of the second liquid crystal molecule 3732.

[0330] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG34 , first dye molecules 3722 have a first color, for example, red, blue, or green. The embodiments disclosed herein are not listed one by one. In this manner, first dye molecules 3722 can absorb light of other colors in addition to the first color.

[0331] As shown in FIG35 , the dimming functional layer 370 further includes third particles 374. The third particles 374 are disposed on one side of the plurality of first particles 372 along the third direction Z. The plurality of third particles 374 can be disposed on a side of the first particles 372 away from the first substrate 311, or on a side of the first particles 372 closer to the first substrate 311. For example, the plurality of third particles 374 are disposed on a side of the first particles 372 away from the first substrate 311, i.e., the plurality of third particles 374 are disposed on the upper side of the first particles 372.

[0332] The plurality of third particles 374 are disposed in the transparent adhesive layer 371 . This arrangement can reduce the risk of the plurality of third particles 374 colliding with each other.

[0333] As shown in Figure 35 , the third particles 374 include a third shell 3741, a plurality of third liquid crystal molecules 3742, and a plurality of second dye molecules 3743. The material of the third shell 3741 can be the same as that of the first shell 3723, and the type of the third liquid crystal molecules 3742 can be the same as that of the first liquid crystal molecules 3721. This arrangement can improve the material uniformity of the dimming functional layer 370 and reduce the manufacturing cost of the dimming functional layer 370.

[0334] As shown in Figure 35, a plurality of third liquid crystal molecules 3742 and a plurality of second dye molecules 3743 are disposed within a third housing 3741. The second dye molecules 3743 have a second color. For example, the second color is red, blue, or green. The embodiments disclosed herein are not specifically listed. This arrangement allows the second dye molecules 3743 to absorb light of colors other than the second color.

[0335] The second color is different from the first color. For example, if the first color is red, the second color can be green or blue. For another example, if the first color is blue, the second color can be green or red. For another example, if the first color is green, the second color can be blue or red. The embodiments of the present disclosure are not listed one by one.

[0336] In this manner, the light-adjusting functional layer 370 can have dye molecules of at least two colors.

[0337] In other embodiments, as shown in FIG. 36 , the first dye molecules 3722 have a first color, and the first particles 372 further include a fourth shell 3725 , a plurality of third liquid crystal molecules 3742 , and a plurality of second dye molecules 3743 .

[0338] The fourth housing 3725 surrounds the first housing 3723 and is spaced apart from the first housing 3723. The fourth housing 3725 can be made of the same material as the first housing 3723, thereby increasing the material uniformity of the dimming functional layer 370 and reducing the manufacturing cost of the dimming functional layer 370. A plurality of third liquid crystal molecules 3742 and a plurality of second dye molecules 3743 are disposed between the first housing 3723 and the fourth housing 3725.

[0339] In this manner, the dimming function layer 370 can also have dye molecules of at least two colors.

[0340] In some embodiments, as shown in Figures 37 and 38, a plurality of first liquid crystal molecules 3721 form a second helical structure, and a plurality of third liquid crystal molecules 3742 form a third helical structure, with the pitch of the second helical structure being greater or less than the pitch of the third helical structure. This arrangement enables the dimming functional layer 370 to display a first color, a second color, a mixture of the first and second colors, or transparency by varying the intensity of the electric field applied to the dimming functional layer 370. This expands the range of applications for the dimming functional layer 370.

[0341] In some examples, the pitch of the second helical structure is less than the pitch of the third helical structure.

[0342] As shown in Figures 37 and 38, when the applied electric field strength is less than the threshold electric field strength corresponding to the second helical structure, the first liquid crystal molecules 3721 maintain their initial state. That is, the second helical structure is not destroyed, the first dye molecules 3722 can absorb light of colors other than the first color, and the absorbance of the first dye molecules 3722 is the highest. The dimming module 300 can transmit light of the first color. The plurality of third liquid crystal molecules 3742 also maintain their initial state. That is, the third helical structure is not destroyed, the second dye molecules 3743 can absorb light of colors other than the second color, and the absorbance of the second dye molecules 3743 is the highest. The dimming functional layer 370 can transmit light of the second color. In general, the dimming functional layer 370 can transmit both the first and second color light, i.e., the dimming functional layer 370 displays a color that is a mixture of the first and second colors.

[0343] As shown in Figures 39 and 40, when the applied electric field strength is greater than or equal to the threshold electric field strength corresponding to the second helical structure and less than the threshold electric field strength corresponding to the third helical structure, the long axis of the first liquid crystal molecules 3721 is perpendicular to the first substrate 311, and the long axis of the first dye molecules 3722 is perpendicular to the first substrate 311, resulting in the first dye molecules 3722 having the lowest absorbance. The plurality of third liquid crystal molecules 3742 also maintain their initial state, meaning that the third helical structure is intact. The second dye molecules 3743 can absorb light of colors other than the second color, and the absorbance of the second dye molecules 3743 is the highest. The dimming functional layer 370 can transmit light of the second color. In short, the dimming functional layer 370 can transmit light of the second color, meaning that the dimming functional layer 370 can display the second color.

[0344] As shown in Figures 41 and 42 , when the applied electric field strength is greater than or equal to the threshold electric field strength corresponding to the third helical structure, the long axis of the first liquid crystal molecules 3721 is perpendicular to the first substrate 311, and the long axis of the first dye molecules 3722 is perpendicular to the first substrate 311, resulting in minimal absorbance of the first dye molecules 3722. The long axis of the third liquid crystal molecules 3742 is perpendicular to the first substrate 311, and the long axis of the second dye molecules 3743 is perpendicular to the first substrate 311, resulting in minimal absorbance of the second dye molecules 3743. Overall, the light transmittance of the dimming functional layer 370 is maximized. For example, the light transmittance of the dimming functional layer 370 is greater than or equal to 85%, indicating that the dimming functional layer 370 appears transparent.

[0345] In other examples, the pitch of the second helical structure is greater than the pitch of the third helical structure.

[0346] As shown in Figures 37 and 38, when the applied electric field strength is less than the threshold electric field strength corresponding to the third helical structure, the first liquid crystal molecules 3721 maintain their initial state. That is, the second helical structure is intact, the first dye molecules 3722 can absorb light of colors other than the first color, and the absorbance of the first dye molecules 3722 is the highest. Therefore, the dimming functional layer 370 can transmit light of the first color. The plurality of third liquid crystal molecules 3742 also maintain their initial state. That is, the third helical structure is intact, the second dye molecules 3743 can absorb light of colors other than the second color, and the absorbance of the second dye molecules 3743 is the highest. Therefore, the dimming functional layer 370 can transmit light of the second color. In summary, the dimming functional layer 370 can transmit both the first and second color light, i.e., the dimming functional layer 370 displays a color that is a mixture of the first and second colors.

[0347] As shown in Figures 43 and 44, when the applied electric field strength is greater than or equal to the threshold electric field strength corresponding to the third helical structure and less than the threshold electric field strength corresponding to the second helical structure, the first liquid crystal molecules 3721 maintain their initial state. In other words, the second helical structure is not destroyed. The first dye molecules 3722 can absorb light of colors other than the first color, and the absorbance of the first dye molecules 3722 is the highest. The dimming functional layer 370 can transmit light of the first color. The long axis of the third liquid crystal molecules 3742 is perpendicular to the first substrate 311, while the long axis of the second dye molecules 3743 is perpendicular to the first substrate 311, and the absorbance of the second dye molecules 3743 is the lowest. In summary, the dimming functional layer 370 can transmit light of the first color, that is, the dimming functional layer 370 can display the first color.

[0348] As shown in Figures 41 and 42 , when the applied electric field strength is greater than or equal to the threshold electric field strength corresponding to the second helical structure, the long axis of the first liquid crystal molecules 3721 is perpendicular to the first substrate 311, and the long axis of the first dye molecules 3722 is perpendicular to the first substrate 311, resulting in the first dye molecules 3722 having the lowest absorbance. The long axis of the third liquid crystal molecules 3742 is perpendicular to the first substrate 311, and the long axis of the second dye molecules 3743 is perpendicular to the first substrate 311, resulting in the second dye molecules 3743 having the lowest absorbance. Overall, the light transmittance of the dimming functional layer 370 is maximized. For example, the light transmittance of the dimming functional layer 370 is greater than or equal to 85%, indicating that the dimming functional layer 370 appears transparent.

[0349] In other embodiments, the dielectric constant of the first liquid crystal molecules 3721 is greater than or less than the dielectric constant of the third liquid crystal molecules 3742. By varying the intensity of the electric field applied to the dimming layer 370, the dimming layer 370 can be configured to display a first color, a second color, a mixture of the first and second colors, or be transparent. This can expand the range of applications for the dimming module 300.

[0350] In some examples, the dielectric constant of the first liquid crystal molecules 3721 is less than the dielectric constant of the third liquid crystal molecules 3742 .

[0351] As shown in Figures 35 to 38 and 45 to 48, when the applied electric field strength is less than the threshold electric field strength corresponding to the dielectric constant of the first liquid crystal molecules 3721, the first liquid crystal molecules 3721 maintain their initial state. That is, as shown in Figures 35, 36, 45, and 46, the first liquid crystal molecules are arranged in a disordered manner, or as shown in Figures 37, 38, 47, and 48, the second helical structure is not destroyed. The first dye molecules 3722 can absorb light of colors other than the first color, and the first dye molecules 3722 have the highest absorbance, so the dimming functional layer 370 can transmit light of the first color. The third liquid crystal molecules 3742 maintain their initial state. That is, as shown in Figures 35, 36, 47, and 48, the third liquid crystal molecules 3742 are arranged in a disordered manner, or as shown in Figures 37, 38, 45, and 46, the third helical structure is not destroyed. The second dye molecules 3743 can absorb light of other colors except the second color, and the second dye molecules 3743 have the highest absorbance, so the dimming functional layer 370 can transmit light of the second color. In general, the dimming functional layer 370 can transmit light of both the first color and the second color, that is, the dimming functional layer 370 displays a color that is a mixture of the first and second colors.

[0352] As shown in Figures 39, 40, 49, and 50, when the applied electric field strength is greater than or equal to the threshold electric field strength corresponding to the dielectric constant of the first liquid crystal molecules 3721 and less than the threshold electric field strength corresponding to the dielectric constant of the third liquid crystal molecules 3742, the long axis of the first liquid crystal molecules 3721 is perpendicular to the first substrate 311, and the long axis of the first dye molecules 3722 is perpendicular to the first substrate 311, resulting in the first dye molecules 3722 having the lowest absorbance. The third liquid crystal molecules 3742 maintain their initial state. In other words, as shown in Figures 49 and 50, the third liquid crystal molecules 3742 are arranged in a disordered manner, or, as shown in Figures 39 and 40, the third helical structure is intact. The second dye molecules 3743 can absorb light of colors other than the second color, and the second dye molecules 3743 have the highest absorbance, allowing the dimming layer 370 to transmit light of the second color. In general, the dimming layer 370 can transmit light of the second color, meaning that the dimming layer 370 can display the second color.

[0353] As shown in Figures 41 and 42 , when the applied electric field strength is greater than or equal to the threshold electric field strength corresponding to the dielectric constant of the third liquid crystal molecules 3742, the long axis of the first liquid crystal molecules 3721 is perpendicular to the first substrate 311, and the long axis of the first dye molecules 3722 is perpendicular to the first substrate 311, resulting in minimal absorbance of the first dye molecules 3722. The long axis of the third liquid crystal molecules 3742 is perpendicular to the first substrate 311, and the long axis of the second dye molecules 3743 is perpendicular to the first substrate 311, resulting in minimal absorbance of the second dye molecules 3743. Overall, the light transmittance of the dimming functional layer 370 is maximized. For example, the light transmittance of the dimming functional layer 370 is greater than or equal to 85%, indicating that the dimming functional layer 370 appears transparent.

[0354] In other examples, the dielectric constant of the first liquid crystal molecules 3721 is greater than the dielectric constant of the third liquid crystal molecules 3742 .

[0355] As shown in Figures 35 to 38 and 45 to 48, when the applied electric field strength is less than the threshold electric field strength corresponding to the dielectric constant of the third liquid crystal molecules 3742, the first liquid crystal molecules 3721 maintain their initial state. That is, as shown in Figures 35, 36, 45, and 46, the first liquid crystal molecules are arranged in a disordered manner, or as shown in Figures 37, 38, 47, and 48, the second helical structure is not disrupted. The first dye molecules 3722 can absorb light of colors other than the first color, and the first dye molecules 3722 have the highest absorbance, allowing the dimming functional layer 370 to transmit light of the first color. The third liquid crystal molecules 3742 maintain their initial state. That is, as shown in Figures 35, 36, 47, and 48, the third liquid crystal molecules 3742 are arranged in a disordered manner, or as shown in Figures 37, 38, 45, and 46, the third helical structure is not disrupted. The second dye molecules 3743 can absorb light of other colors except the second color, and the second dye molecules 3743 have the highest absorbance, so the dimming functional layer 370 can transmit light of the second color. In general, the dimming functional layer 370 can transmit light of both the first color and the second color, that is, the dimming functional layer 370 displays a color that is a mixture of the first and second colors.

[0356] As shown in Figures 43, 44, 51, and 52, when the applied electric field strength is greater than or equal to the threshold electric field strength corresponding to the dielectric constant of the third liquid crystal molecules 3742 and less than the threshold electric field strength corresponding to the dielectric constant of the first liquid crystal molecules 3721, the first liquid crystal molecules 3721 maintain their initial state. In other words, as shown in Figures 51 and 52, the first liquid crystal molecules are arranged in a disordered manner, or, as shown in Figures 43 and 44, the second helical structure is not disrupted. The first dye molecules 3722 can absorb light of colors other than the first color, and the first dye molecules 3722 have the highest absorbance, allowing the dimming functional layer 370 to transmit light of the first color. The long axis of the third liquid crystal molecules 3742 is perpendicular to the first substrate 311, while the long axis of the second dye molecules 3743 is perpendicular to the first substrate 311, allowing the second dye molecules 3743 to have the lowest absorbance. In summary, the dimming functional layer 370 can transmit light of the first color, meaning that the dimming functional layer 370 can display the first color.

[0357] As shown in Figures 41 and 42 , when the applied electric field strength is greater than or equal to the threshold electric field strength corresponding to the dielectric constant of the first liquid crystal molecules 3721, the long axis of the first liquid crystal molecules 3721 is perpendicular to the first substrate 311, and the long axis of the first dye molecules 3722 is perpendicular to the first substrate 311, resulting in the first dye molecules 3722 having the lowest absorbance. The long axis of the third liquid crystal molecules 3742 is perpendicular to the first substrate 311, and the long axis of the second dye molecules 3743 is perpendicular to the first substrate 311, resulting in the second dye molecules 3743 having the lowest absorbance. Overall, the light transmittance of the dimming functional layer 370 is maximized. For example, the light transmittance of the dimming functional layer 370 is greater than or equal to 85%, indicating that the dimming functional layer 370 appears transparent.

[0358] The electric field that enables the first liquid crystal molecules 3721 to be perpendicular to the first substrate 311 is described below.

[0359] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG19 , the first liquid crystal molecules 3721 are positive liquid crystal molecules. The dimming module 300 further includes a first electrode 312 and a second electrode 322 arranged opposite to each other, and the dimming function layer 370 is arranged between the first electrode 312 and the second electrode 322. The first electrode 312 and the second electrode 322 are surface electrodes. The material of the first electrode 312 may include a conductive material with high light transmittance. For example, the material of the first electrode 312 includes indium tin oxide (ITO). The material of the second electrode 322 may be the same as that of the first electrode 312.

[0360] Arranged in this manner, the first electrode 312 and the second electrode 322 can generate a first electric field, which is perpendicular to the first substrate 311. Under the action of the first electric field, the positive liquid crystal molecules are deflected in a direction parallel to the first electric field. In other words, the first liquid crystal molecules 3721 are deflected in a direction parallel to the first electric field. When the intensity of the first electric field is sufficiently strong, the first liquid crystal molecules 3721 are parallel to the first electric field. In other words, the first liquid crystal molecules 3721 are perpendicular to the first substrate 311.

[0361] As shown in FIG. 19 , the dimming function layer 370 is in direct contact with the first electrode 312 and the second electrode 322 . In this manner, the alignment layer can be eliminated, thereby reducing the thickness of the dimming module 300 .

[0362] In other embodiments, as shown in FIG. 53 , the first liquid crystal molecules 3721 are negative liquid crystal molecules, and the dimming module 300 further includes a plurality of first electrodes 312 and a plurality of second electrodes 322 .

[0363] As shown in FIG53 , a plurality of first electrodes 312 are provided on one side of the dimming functional layer 370 along the third direction Z. The plurality of first electrodes 312 extend along the third direction Z and are spaced apart along the first direction X. The first electrodes 312 are electrically connected at one end near the boundary of the first substrate 311, that is, the plurality of first electrodes 312 are shaped like comb teeth. A plurality of second electrodes 322 extend along the third direction Z. The plurality of second electrodes 322 and the plurality of first electrodes 312 are provided in the same layer and alternately provided with the plurality of first electrodes 312 along the first direction X. The third direction Z is perpendicular to the first direction X and intersects with the third direction Z. For example, the third direction Z is perpendicular to the third direction Z.

[0364] Arranged in this manner, the first electrode 312 and the second electrode 322 can generate a second electric field, and the second electric field has a portion parallel to the first substrate 311. Under the action of the portion parallel to the first substrate 311 in the second electric field, the negative liquid crystal molecules are deflected in a direction perpendicular to the portion parallel to the first substrate 311 in the second electric field, that is, the first liquid crystal molecules 3721 are deflected in a direction perpendicular to the portion parallel to the first substrate 311 in the second electric field. When the intensity of the second electric field is large enough, the first liquid crystal molecules 3721 are perpendicular to the portion parallel to the first substrate 311 in the second electric field, that is, the first liquid crystal molecules 3721 are perpendicular to the portion parallel to the first substrate 311 in the second electric field, that is, the first liquid crystal molecules 3721 are perpendicular to the first substrate 311.

[0365] As shown in FIG53 , the plurality of first electrodes 312 and the plurality of second electrodes 322 are in direct contact with the dimming function layer 370 , respectively. This arrangement can eliminate the alignment layer and reduce the thickness of the dimming module 300 .

[0366] In some embodiments, some embodiments of the present disclosure further provide a dimming device 1000. The dimming device 1000 includes the dimming module 300 of any of the above embodiments.

[0367] As shown in FIG. 54 and FIG. 55 , the dimming device 1000 further includes a first substrate 100 and a second substrate 200 that are arranged opposite to each other.

[0368] The material of the first substrate 100 may include tempered glass or other materials with high light transmittance. The material of the second substrate 200 may be the same as that of the first substrate 100. This arrangement can improve the uniformity of the dimming device 1000 and reduce the manufacturing cost of the dimming device 1000.

[0369] In one embodiment, as shown in Figures 54 and 55 , the dimming module 300 is disposed on a side of the first substrate 100 or the second substrate 200 that is away from the other. In other words, the dimming module 300 can be disposed on a side of the first substrate 100 that is away from the second substrate 200, or on a side of the second substrate 200 that is away from the first substrate 100. For example, as shown in Figures 54 and 55 , the dimming module 300 is disposed on a side of the first substrate 100 that is away from the second substrate 200.

[0370] As shown in Figures 54 and 55, the dimming module 300 further includes a first substrate 311 and a second substrate 321 disposed opposite each other, with a first electrode 312, a second electrode 322, and a dimming functional layer 370 disposed between the first substrate 311 and the second substrate 321. The first electrode 312 and the second electrode 322 are in direct contact with the first substrate 311 and / or the second substrate 321.

[0371] Illustratively, when the first electrode 312 is a surface electrode, the first electrode 312 is in direct contact with the first substrate 311, and the second electrode 322 is in direct contact with the second substrate 321. Alternatively, the first electrode 312 is in direct contact with the second substrate 321, and the second electrode 322 is in direct contact with the second substrate 321. For example, as shown in FIG54 , the first electrode 312 is in direct contact with the first substrate 311, and the second electrode 322 is in direct contact with the second substrate 321.

[0372] Exemplarily, when the plurality of first electrodes 312 extend along the third direction Z and are spaced apart along the first direction X, the first electrodes 312 and the second electrodes 322 are respectively in direct contact with the first substrate 311. Alternatively, the first electrodes 312 and the second electrodes 322 are respectively in direct contact with the second substrate 321. For example, as shown in FIG55 , the first electrodes 312 and the second electrodes 322 are respectively in direct contact with the first substrate 311.

[0373] To bond the dimming module 300 to the first substrate 100 or the second substrate 200, as shown in Figures 54 and 55, the dimming device 1000 further includes a fourth adhesive layer 1100, which is disposed between the dimming module 300 and the first substrate 100 or the second substrate 200. The material of the fourth adhesive layer 1100 may include optical adhesive, liquid optical adhesive, polyvinyl butyral, ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer, ionic interlayer, or pressure-sensitive adhesive, among other adhesive materials with high light transmittance. These materials are not specifically listed in the embodiments of the present disclosure. For example, the material of the fourth adhesive layer 1100 includes PVB.

[0374] To bond the first substrate 100 and the second substrate 200, the dimming device 1000 further includes a fifth adhesive layer 1200. The fifth adhesive layer 1200 is disposed between the first substrate 100 and the second substrate 200, bonding the first substrate 100 and the second substrate 200 together via the fifth adhesive layer 1200. The material of the fifth adhesive layer 1200 can include an adhesive material with high light transmittance (e.g., a light transmittance greater than or equal to 85%), such as optical adhesive, liquid optical adhesive, polyvinyl butyral, ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer, ionic interlayer, or pressure-sensitive adhesive. These materials are not specifically listed in the embodiments of the present disclosure. For example, the material of the fifth adhesive layer 1200 includes PVB.

[0375] In other embodiments, as shown in Figures 56 and 57 , the dimming module 300 is disposed between the first substrate 100 and the second substrate 200, and the first electrode 312 and the second electrode 322 are in direct contact with the first substrate 100 and / or the second substrate 200. With this arrangement, the first substrate 311 and the second substrate 321 can be eliminated, thereby reducing the thickness of the dimming device 1000.

[0376] For example, when the first electrode 312 is a surface electrode, the first electrode 312 is in direct contact with the first substrate 100, and the second electrode 322 is in direct contact with the second substrate 200. Alternatively, the first electrode 312 is in direct contact with the second substrate 200, and the second electrode 322 is in direct contact with the first substrate 100. For example, as shown in FIG56 , the first electrode 312 is in direct contact with the first substrate 100, and the second electrode 322 is in direct contact with the second substrate 200.

[0377] Exemplarily, when the plurality of first electrodes 312 extend along the third direction Z and are spaced apart along the first direction X, the first electrodes 312 and the second electrodes 322 are respectively in direct contact with the first substrate 100. Alternatively, the first electrodes 312 and the second electrodes 322 are respectively in direct contact with the second substrate 200. For example, as shown in FIG57 , the first electrodes 312 and the second electrodes 322 are respectively in direct contact with the first substrate 100.

[0378] In some other examples, as shown in Figures 58 and 59, the dimming module 300 is disposed between the first substrate 100 and the second substrate 200. The dimming module 300 also includes a first substrate 311 and a second substrate 321 disposed opposite each other. The first electrode 312, the second electrode 322, and the dimming function layer 370 are disposed between the first substrate 311 and the second substrate 321. The first electrode 312 and the second electrode 322 are in direct contact with the first substrate 311 and / or the second substrate 321.

[0379] Illustratively, when the first electrode 312 is a surface electrode, the first electrode 312 is in direct contact with the first substrate 311, and the second electrode 322 is in direct contact with the second substrate 321. Alternatively, the first electrode 312 is in direct contact with the second substrate 321, and the second electrode 322 is in direct contact with the second substrate 321. For example, as shown in FIG58 , the first electrode 312 is in direct contact with the first substrate 311, and the second electrode 322 is in direct contact with the second substrate 321.

[0380] Exemplarily, when the plurality of first electrodes 312 extend along the third direction Z and are spaced apart along the first direction X, the first electrodes 312 and the second electrodes 322 are respectively in direct contact with the first substrate 311. Alternatively, the first electrodes 312 and the second electrodes 322 are respectively in direct contact with the second substrate 321. For example, as shown in FIG59 , the first electrodes 312 and the second electrodes 322 are respectively in direct contact with the first substrate 311.

[0381] As shown in FIG. 58 and FIG. 59 , in order to bond the dimming module 300 to the first substrate 100 or the second substrate 200 , the dimming device 1000 further includes a sixth adhesive layer 1300 and a seventh adhesive layer 1400 .

[0382] The sixth adhesive layer 1300 is disposed between one of the first substrate 100 and the second substrate 200 and the dimming module 300. For example, the sixth adhesive layer 1300 is disposed between the first substrate 100 and the dimming module 300. The material of the sixth adhesive layer 1300 may include an adhesive material with high light transmittance (e.g., a light transmittance greater than or equal to 85%), such as optical adhesive, liquid optical adhesive, polyvinyl butyral, ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer, ionic interlayer, or pressure-sensitive adhesive. These materials are not listed in detail in the embodiments of the present disclosure. For example, the material of the sixth adhesive layer 1300 includes PVB.

[0383] The seventh adhesive layer 1400 is disposed between the other of the first substrate 100 and the second substrate 200 and the dimming module 300. For example, the seventh adhesive layer 1400 is disposed between the second substrate 200 and the dimming module 300. The material of the seventh adhesive layer 1400 can be the same as that of the sixth adhesive layer 1300. For example, the materials of the seventh adhesive layer 1400 and the sixth adhesive layer 1300 are both PVB.

[0384] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 54 , FIG. 56 , FIG. 58 and FIG. 60 , the dimming device 1000 further includes a third substrate 1500 and a first plastic frame 1600 .

[0385] The third substrate 1500 is disposed on a side of the first substrate 100 or the second substrate 200 that is away from the other. In other words, the third substrate 1500 can be disposed on a side of the first substrate 100 away from the second substrate 200, or on a side of the second substrate 200 away from the first substrate 100. For example, as shown in Figures 54, 56, 58, and 60, the third substrate 1500 is disposed on a side of the second substrate 200 away from the first substrate 100. The material of the third substrate 1500 can be the same as that of the first substrate 100.

[0386] The first plastic frame 1600 is disposed between the first substrate 100 and the second substrate 200, whichever is closer to the third substrate 1500, and the third substrate 1500. The third substrate 1500, the first plastic frame 1600, and the first substrate 100 and the second substrate 200, whichever is closer to the third substrate 1500, form a first cavity. That is, when the third substrate 1500 is disposed on the side of the first substrate 100 away from the second substrate 200, the first plastic frame 1600 is disposed between the first substrate 100 and the third substrate 1500. The third substrate 1500, the first plastic frame 1600, and the first substrate 100 form a first cavity. When the third substrate 1500 is disposed on the side of the second substrate 200 away from the first substrate 100, the first plastic frame 1600 is disposed between the second substrate 200 and the third substrate 1500. The third substrate 1500, the first plastic frame 1600, and the second substrate 200 form a first cavity.

[0387] The material of the first adhesive frame 1600 may include polyvinyl butyral, ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer, ionic interlayer or pressure-sensitive adhesive with high light transmittance, etc., which are not listed in detail in the embodiments of the present disclosure. For example, the material of the first adhesive frame 1600 includes PVB.

[0388] In this case, the first cavity can play a role in heat insulation and noise reduction, thereby further improving the heat insulation and noise reduction effects of the dimming device 1000.

[0389] As shown in Figure 60, the first cavity and the dimming module 300 are both disposed on a side of the first substrate 100 and the second substrate 200 that is away from the other, and the dimming module 300 is disposed in the first cavity.

[0390] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 60 , the dimming device further includes a fourth substrate 1700 and an eighth adhesive layer 1800 .

[0391] The fourth substrate 1700 is disposed on a side of the third substrate 1500 away from the first substrate 100 . The material of the fourth substrate 1700 may be the same as that of the third substrate 1500 .

[0392] The eighth adhesive layer 1800 is disposed between the third substrate 1500 and the fourth substrate 1700, and the third substrate 1500 and the fourth substrate 1700 are bonded together via the eighth adhesive layer 1800. The eighth adhesive layer 1800 may include an adhesive material with high light transmittance, such as optical adhesive, liquid optical adhesive, polyvinyl butyral, ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer, ionic interlayer, or pressure-sensitive adhesive. Examples of such materials are not specifically listed in the embodiments of the present disclosure. For example, the material of the eighth adhesive layer 1800 includes PVB.

[0393] In some embodiments, the embodiments of the present disclosure also provide a dimming structure, which includes the dimming device 1000 or the dimming module 300 of any of the above embodiments, and the dimming structure includes one of a skylight, a curtain wall, a rail transit vehicle, a car, and a billboard.

[0394] The dimming device 1000 or the dimming module 300 can be used in the construction field. For example, the dimming device 1000 or the dimming module 300 can be used in a skylight or a curtain wall. The dimming device 1000 or the dimming module 300 can be used in the glass of a partition. Compared with the use of brick walls to separate rooms in the construction field, the dimming device 1000 of the embodiment of the present disclosure is thinner. In this way, the dimming device 1000 or the dimming module 300 can save space. A company logo can also be displayed on the partition glass. In this case, the dimming structure including the dimming device 1000 or the dimming module 300 can be, for example, a skylight, a curtain wall, etc.

[0395] The dimming device 1000 or the dimming module 300 can also be applied to the field of transportation. For example, the dimming device 1000 or the dimming module 300 is applied to rail transportation vehicles or cars. Rail transportation vehicles may include subways, light rails, aerial rail trains, trams, and maglev trains, which are not listed one by one in the embodiments of the present disclosure. Automobiles may include passenger cars, commercial vehicles, trucks, or buses, which are not listed one by one in the embodiments of the present disclosure. In this case, the dimming node including the dimming device 1000 or the dimming module 300 may be, for example, a rail transportation vehicle, a car, etc.

[0396] The present disclosure uses a dimming structure as an example of a car 2000. As shown in FIG18 , car 2000 includes a body 2010 and a window glass 220 mounted on body 2010. Window glass 220 can be one or more of the car's front window, sunroof, rear window, or side window. Window glass 220 includes a dimming device 1000 or dimming module 300 according to any of the aforementioned embodiments. The dimming device 1000 or dimming module 300 can also be used on the central control touchscreen in car 2000.

[0397] In the description of this specification, specific features, structures, materials or characteristics may be combined in an appropriate manner in any one or more embodiments or examples.

[0398] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of the present disclosure, but the scope of protection of the present disclosure is not limited thereto. Any changes or substitutions that a person skilled in the art can conceive within the technical scope disclosed in the present disclosure should be included within the scope of protection of the present disclosure. Therefore, the scope of protection of the present disclosure should be based on the scope of protection of the claims.

Claims

1. A dimming device, comprising: a first substrate and a second substrate arranged opposite to each other; The boundary of the orthographic projection of the first substrate on the first reference plane includes a plurality of first boundaries connected in sequence; wherein the first reference plane is parallel to the surface of the first substrate close to the second substrate; at least one dimming module, disposed between the first substrate and the second substrate; a first adhesive layer, disposed between the first substrate and the dimming module; a second adhesive layer, disposed between the second substrate and the dimming module; A first edge sealant is arranged between the first adhesive layer and the second adhesive layer, and is connected to the first adhesive layer and the second adhesive layer; the first edge sealant is bonded to the side wall of the dimming module; in the orthographic projection onto the first reference surface, the first edge sealant is arranged between part of the multiple first boundaries and the boundary of the orthographic projection of the dimming module on the first reference surface.

2. The dimming device according to claim 1, wherein: The material of the first edge sealing glue is the same as that of the first adhesive layer and the second adhesive layer, and the first edge sealing glue is integrally formed.

3. The dimming device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The distance between the boundary of the orthographic projection of the dimming module on the first reference surface and the first boundary is greater than or equal to 2 mm and less than or equal to 5 mm, and there is a gap between the outer boundary of the orthographic projection of the first edge sealing glue on the first reference surface and the first boundary.

4. The dimming device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The distance between the boundary of the orthographic projection of the dimming module on the first reference surface and the first boundary is greater than 5 mm, and the outer boundary of the orthographic projection of the first edge sealing glue on the first reference surface is flush with the first boundary.

5. The dimming device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein: The first edge sealing adhesive is provided between a first boundary and a boundary of an orthographic projection of the dimming module on the first reference surface. The dimming device according to claim 5 , wherein: The dimming module includes: A first substrate layer and a second substrate layer disposed opposite to each other; a dye liquid crystal layer, disposed between the first substrate layer and the second substrate layer; a sealant layer, disposed between the first substrate layer and the second substrate layer and surrounding the dye liquid crystal layer; The circuit board is located between the first substrate layer and the second substrate layer and on a side of the sealant layer close to the first edge sealant. The circuit board passes through the first edge sealant.

7. The dimming device according to claim 6, wherein: The shape of the first boundary arranged opposite to the circuit board is an arc.

8. The dimming device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein: Also includes The second edge sealing glue is arranged around the dimming module and is bonded to the side wall of the dimming module; the material of the second edge sealing glue is different from the materials of the first adhesive layer and the second adhesive layer, the first edge sealing glue is located on the side of the second edge sealing glue away from the dimming module, and is bonded to the second edge sealing glue.

9. The dimming device according to claim 8, wherein: The dimming module includes: A first substrate layer and a second substrate layer disposed opposite to each other; a dye liquid crystal layer, disposed between the first substrate layer and the second substrate layer; a sealant layer, disposed between the first substrate layer and the second substrate layer and surrounding the dye liquid crystal layer; The second edge sealing adhesive is disposed around the first substrate layer and the second substrate layer, and is bonded to the circumferential side wall of the first substrate layer and the circumferential side wall of the second substrate layer.

10. The dimming device according to claim 8, wherein: The dimming module includes: A first substrate layer and a second substrate layer disposed opposite to each other; a dye liquid crystal layer, disposed between the first substrate layer and the second substrate layer; a sealant layer, disposed between the first substrate layer and the second substrate layer and surrounding the dye liquid crystal layer; The second edge sealing adhesive is arranged between the first substrate layer and the second substrate layer, and is bonded to the first substrate layer and the second substrate layer; the second edge sealing adhesive is arranged around the sealant layer and is bonded to the sealant layer, and the outer boundary of the orthographic projection of the second edge sealing adhesive on the first reference surface is flush with the boundary of the orthographic projection of the first substrate layer on the first reference surface.

11. The dimming device according to claim 8, wherein: The dimming module includes: A first substrate layer and a second substrate layer disposed opposite to each other; a dye liquid crystal layer, disposed between the first substrate layer and the second substrate layer; a sealant layer, disposed between the first substrate layer and the second substrate layer and surrounding the dye liquid crystal layer; The second edge sealing glue includes a first sub-section and a second sub-section that are connected. The first sub-section is arranged around the first substrate layer and the second substrate layer, and is bonded to the circumferential side walls of the first substrate layer and the second substrate layer; the second sub-section is arranged between the first substrate layer and the second substrate layer, and is bonded to the first substrate layer and the second substrate layer; the second sub-section is arranged around the sealant layer and is bonded to the sealant layer.

12. The dimming device according to any one of claims 1 to 11, comprising a plurality of dimming modules; the dimming device further comprising at least one third adhesive layer, wherein the third adhesive layer is provided between two adjacent dimming modules; The dimming module includes a substrate, an alignment layer provided on the substrate, and a first mark provided on the substrate; Of the two adjacent dimming modules, one is the first dimming module and the other is the second dimming module; the first mark of the first dimming module and the first mark of the second dimming module are staggered so that the angle between the orientation direction of the orientation layer of the first dimming module and the orientation direction of the orientation layer of the second dimming module is a preset angle.

13. The dimming device according to claim 12, wherein: The dimming module includes a circuit board, and the circuit board and the first mark are arranged on the same side of the first substrate.

14. The dimming device according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein: The curvature of the dimming device along the first direction is 12 mm / m to 39 mm / m, and the curvature along the second direction is 19 mm / m to 26 mm / m; wherein the first direction intersects the second direction.

15. The dimming device according to claim 14, comprising a plurality of dimming modules; the dimming device further comprising at least one third adhesive layer, wherein the third adhesive layer is provided between two adjacent dimming modules; The dimming module includes a substrate; of the two adjacent dimming modules, one is a third dimming module and the other is a fourth dimming module; The third dimming module includes a second mark provided on a substrate of the third dimming module; and / or the fourth dimming module includes a third mark provided on a substrate of the fourth dimming module.

16. The dimming device according to claim 15, wherein: The dimming module includes a circuit board, and the circuit board, the second mark and / or the third mark are arranged on the same side of the first substrate.

17. The dimming device according to any one of claims 1 to 16, further comprising: The anti-reflection film is disposed on a side of one of the first substrate and the second substrate away from the other substrate, and is configured to reduce the reflectivity of the dimming device.

18. The dimming device according to claim 17, wherein: The anti-reflection film includes any one of an anti-transmission anti-reflection film, a moth-eye anti-reflection film, and an anti-glare anti-reflection film.

19. The dimming device according to claim 18, wherein: The anti-reflection and anti-reflection film comprises: A first anti-reflection layer; the wavelength of visible light emitted to the dimming device is λ1, the refractive index of the first anti-reflection layer is n1, and the thickness of the first anti-reflection layer is d1, wherein λ1, n1, and d1 satisfy d1 = λ1 / (4n1); A second anti-reflection layer is arranged on a side of the first anti-reflection layer away from the dimming module. The refractive index of the second anti-reflection layer is n2, and the refractive index of the second anti-reflection layer is less than the refractive index of the first anti-reflection layer. The thickness of the second anti-reflection layer is d2, wherein λ1, n2, and d2 satisfy d2 = λ1 / (4n2).

20. A dimming device, comprising: a first substrate and a second substrate arranged opposite to each other; at least one dimming module, disposed between the first substrate and the second substrate; a first adhesive layer, disposed between the first substrate and the dimming module; a second adhesive layer, disposed between the second substrate and the dimming module; The second edge sealing adhesive is arranged around the dimming module and covers the side wall of the dimming module; the material of the second edge sealing adhesive is different from the material of the first adhesive layer and the second adhesive layer.

21. A dimming module, comprising: The dimming functional layer includes a transparent adhesive layer and a plurality of first particles; the plurality of first particles are arranged in the transparent adhesive layer, the first particles include a plurality of first liquid crystal molecules, a plurality of first dye molecules and a first shell, and the plurality of first liquid crystal molecules and the plurality of first dye molecules are arranged in the first shell.

22. The dimming module according to claim 21, wherein: The dimming functional layer further includes a plurality of second particles, the plurality of second particles being disposed on one side of the plurality of first particles along a second direction and disposed in the transparent adhesive layer; wherein the second direction is perpendicular to the dimming functional layer; The second particles include: a second shell; A plurality of second liquid crystal molecules are arranged in the second shell and form a first spiral structure; the wavelength of the infrared light incident on the dimming module is λ2, the pitch of the first spiral structure is P, and the refractive index of the second liquid crystal molecules is n3, wherein λ2, P and n3 satisfy: λ2=n3P.

23. The dimming module according to claim 22, wherein: A plurality of the first liquid crystal molecules form a second helical structure; the pitch of the second helical structure is greater than or less than the pitch of the first helical structure; and / or, The dielectric constant of the first liquid crystal molecules is greater than or less than the dielectric constant of the second liquid crystal molecules.

24. The dimming module according to claim 21, wherein: The first dye molecules have a first color; the dimming functional layer further includes a plurality of third particles; the plurality of third particles are disposed on one side of the plurality of first particles along a second direction and are disposed in the transparent adhesive layer; wherein the second direction is perpendicular to the dimming functional layer; The third particles include: a third shell; A plurality of third liquid crystal molecules are disposed in the third shell; A plurality of second dye molecules are disposed in the third shell, and the second dye molecules have a second color; wherein the second color is different from the first color.

25. The dimming module according to claim 21, wherein: The first dye molecule has a first color; the first particle further comprises: a fourth shell, surrounding the first shell and having a gap between the first shell and the fourth shell; a plurality of third liquid crystal molecules, disposed between the first shell and the fourth shell; A plurality of second dye molecules are disposed between the first shell and the fourth shell; the second dye molecules have a second color; wherein the second color is different from the first color.

26. The dimming module according to claim 24 or 25, wherein: The plurality of first liquid crystal molecules form a second helical structure, and the plurality of third liquid crystal molecules form a third helical structure; the pitch of the second helical structure is greater than or less than the pitch of the third helical structure; and / or, The dielectric constant of the first liquid crystal molecules is different from the dielectric constant of the third liquid crystal molecules.

27. A dimming device comprising The dimming module according to any one of claims 21 to 26.

28. The dimming device according to claim 27, further comprising a first substrate and a second substrate disposed opposite to each other; the dimming module is disposed on a side of one of the first substrate and the second substrate away from the other; in, The dimming module also includes a first substrate and a second substrate arranged opposite to each other; the first electrode, the second electrode and the dimming function layer of the dimming module are arranged between the first substrate and the second substrate, and the first electrode and the second electrode are in direct contact with the first substrate and / or the second substrate.

29. The dimming device according to claim 27, further comprising a first substrate and a second substrate arranged opposite to each other; the dimming module is arranged between the first substrate and the second substrate; the first electrode and the second electrode are in direct contact with the first substrate and / or the second substrate.

30. The dimming device according to claim 28 or 29, further comprising: a third substrate, disposed on a side of one of the first substrate and the second substrate away from the other; a first plastic frame disposed between the first substrate and the second substrate, whichever is closer to the third substrate, and the third substrate; the third substrate, the first plastic frame, and the first substrate and the second substrate, whichever is closer to the third substrate, form a first cavity; In a case where the first cavity and the dimming module are both disposed on a side of one of the first substrate and the second substrate that is away from the other, the dimming module is disposed in the first cavity.

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