Electrochromic control apparatus

Abstract

Embodiments of the present application provide an electrochromic control apparatus. The control apparatus comprises a microcontroller, a negative voltage generation module and a voltage stabilizing module. The negative voltage generation module is connected to the microcontroller and the voltage stabilizing module. The negative voltage generation module is used for generating an adjustable voltage under the control of the microcontroller and outputting the adjustable voltage to the voltage stabilizing module. The lower limit value of a change range of the adjustable voltage is a negative value. The voltage stabilizing module is used for outputting a driving voltage under the regulation of the adjustable voltage. The driving voltage is used for driving an electrochromic device to perform light modulation. In the electrochromic control apparatus provided in the embodiments, a negative voltage generation module is provided, to generate, under the control of a microcontroller, a voltage signal having a voltage change range that comprises a negative voltage, and then a voltage stabilizing module is regulated by means of the voltage signal to output a low driving voltage that satisfies driving requirements of an electrochromic device.

Description

Electrochromic control device

[0001] This application claims priority to Chinese Patent Application No. 202411910119.2, filed on December 23, 2024, entitled “Electrochromic Control Device”, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0002] This application relates to the field of electrochromic technology, and more particularly to an electrochromic control device. Background Technology

[0003] Electrochromic (EC) devices contain electrochromic materials, which are materials whose optical properties (reflectivity, transmittance, absorptivity, etc.) change stably and reversibly under the action of an external electric field. This manifests as reversible changes in color and transparency.

[0004] In related technologies, a low dropout regulator (LDO) can be used to provide drive voltage for EC devices.

[0005] However, the inventors discovered at least the following problem in the prior art: the driving voltage required for electrochromic EC devices is low, which conventional LDOs cannot meet. Summary of the Invention

[0006] This application provides an electrochromic control device to provide a lower driving voltage for EC devices to meet their driving requirements.

[0007] In a first aspect, embodiments of this application provide an electrochromic control device, comprising: a microcontroller, a negative voltage generation module, and a voltage regulator module. The negative voltage generation module is connected to the microcontroller and the voltage regulator module, and is used to generate an adjustable voltage under the control of the microcontroller and output the adjustable voltage to the voltage regulator module, wherein the lower limit of the adjustable voltage's variation range is negative. The voltage regulator module is used to output a driving voltage under the adjustment of the adjustable voltage; the driving voltage is used to drive the electrochromic device to dim.

[0008] The electrochromic control device provided in this embodiment uses a negative voltage generation module to generate a voltage signal with a voltage variation range including negative voltage under the control of a microcontroller. This voltage signal is then used to adjust the output of the voltage regulator module to meet the driving requirements of the EC device. Specifically, the voltage regulator module has an internal reference voltage. Because the negative voltage generation module can output an adjustable negative voltage, the voltage regulator module can output a driving voltage lower than the internal reference voltage.

[0009] In one possible design, the voltage regulator module includes a voltage divider unit and a linear voltage regulator unit. The first terminal of the voltage divider unit is connected to the negative voltage generation module, the voltage divider output terminal is connected to the adjustment terminal of the linear voltage regulator unit, and the second terminal of the voltage divider unit is connected to the output terminal of the linear voltage regulator unit. The voltage divider unit is used to divide the voltage between its first and second terminals to obtain a divided voltage signal, and outputs the divided voltage signal to the adjustment terminal of the linear voltage regulator unit. The linear voltage regulator unit is used to output a drive voltage under the adjustment of the divided voltage signal.

[0010] In one possible design, the voltage divider unit includes a first resistor and a second resistor. One end of the first resistor is connected to the output terminal of the linear voltage regulator unit, the other end of the first resistor is connected to the adjustment terminal of the linear voltage regulator unit and one end of the second resistor, and the other end of the second resistor is connected to the output terminal of the negative voltage generation module.

[0011] In one possible design, the microcontroller is further configured to generate a PWM signal and send the PWM signal to the negative voltage generation module. The negative voltage generation module is configured to proportionally adjust the voltage variation range of the PWM signal to obtain the adjustable voltage. The microcontroller includes a PWM signal generation unit for generating the PWM signal.

[0012] In one possible design, the proportional adjustment unit includes a first amplifier, a third resistor, a fourth resistor, a fifth resistor, and a sixth resistor. One end of the third resistor is connected to the output of the microcontroller, and the other end of the third resistor is connected to one end of the fourth resistor. One end of the fourth resistor is also connected to the non-inverting input of the first amplifier. One end of the fifth resistor is connected to a preset voltage source, and the other end of the fifth resistor is connected to the inverting input of the first amplifier and one end of the sixth resistor. The other end of the sixth resistor is connected to the output of the first amplifier and the voltage regulator module. The PWM signal generation unit is integrated into the microcontroller, and the output of the microcontroller is the output of the PWM signal generation unit within the microcontroller.

[0013] In one possible design, the negative voltage generation module includes a PWM signal generation unit and a proportional adjustment unit. The PWM signal generation unit is connected to the microcontroller and is used to generate a PWM signal under the control of the microcontroller. The proportional adjustment unit is connected to the PWM signal generation unit and is used to proportionally adjust the voltage variation range of the PWM signal to obtain the adjustable voltage.

[0014] In one possible design, the proportional adjustment unit includes a first amplifier, a third resistor, a fourth resistor, a fifth resistor, and a sixth resistor. One end of the third resistor is connected to the output of the PWM signal generation unit, and the other end of the third resistor is connected to one end of the fourth resistor. One end of the fourth resistor is also connected to the non-inverting input of the first amplifier. One end of the fifth resistor is connected to a preset voltage source, and the other end of the fifth resistor is connected to the inverting input of the first amplifier and one end of the sixth resistor. The other end of the sixth resistor is connected to the output of the first amplifier and the voltage regulator module.

[0015] In one possible design, the microcontroller is used to acquire the current state and target state of the electrochromic device, and control the negative pressure generation module to generate an adjustable voltage based on the current state and the target state.

[0016] In one possible design, the device further includes a communication module. The communication module is connected to the microcontroller and is used to receive a dimming command carrying a target state and to send the dimming command to the microcontroller. The microcontroller is used to obtain the target state based on the dimming command.

[0017] In one possible design, the microcontroller is used to receive a touch signal and, in response to the touch signal, acquire the target state of the electrochromic device.

[0018] In one possible design, the device further includes a voltage detection module. The voltage detection module is connected to the output terminals of the microcontroller and the voltage regulator module. The voltage detection module detects the driving voltage, obtains the actual voltage value of the driving voltage, and outputs the actual voltage value to the microcontroller. The microcontroller is further configured to determine a target voltage value based on a target state. The microcontroller determines whether the actual voltage value matches the target voltage value. If so, it outputs the driving voltage to the electrochromic device. If the actual voltage value does not match the target voltage value, it controls the negative voltage generation module to adjust the adjustable voltage until the actual voltage value of the driving voltage matches the target voltage value, and then outputs the driving voltage to the electrochromic device.

[0019] In one possible design, the voltage detection module is an analog-to-digital converter (ADC). The input terminal of the ADC is connected to the output terminal of the voltage regulator module, and the output terminal of the ADC is connected to the microcontroller. The ADC is used to perform analog-to-digital conversion on the driving voltage to obtain the actual voltage value, and then outputs the actual voltage value to the microcontroller.

[0020] In one possible design, the device further includes an output switch. The output switch is connected between the voltage regulator module and the electrochromic device. The microcontroller is connected to the control terminal of the output switch, and the microcontroller is used to control the output switch to conduct when the driving voltage output by the voltage regulator module meets a first preset condition, so as to output the driving voltage to the electrochromic device.

[0021] In one possible design, the first preset condition includes: the actual voltage value of the driving voltage is consistent with the target voltage value.

[0022] In one possible design, the microcontroller is used to control the output switch to turn on when the driving voltage output by the voltage regulator module meets a first preset condition, so as to output the driving voltage to the positive or negative terminal of the electrochromic device.

[0023] In one possible design, the output switch includes a first switch, a second switch, a third switch, and a fourth switch. One end of the first switch is grounded, and the other end of the first switch is connected to the negative terminal of the electrochromic device and one end of the third switch. The other end of the third switch is connected to the output terminal of the voltage regulator module and one end of the fourth switch. The other end of the fourth switch is connected to the positive terminal of the electrochromic device and one end of the second switch, and the other end of the second switch is grounded.

[0024] In one possible design, the device further includes a drive module. The microcontroller is connected to the control terminal of the output switch via the drive module. The drive module is used to control the output switch.

[0025] In one possible design, the microcontroller is further configured to control the output switch to shut off the path between the voltage regulator module and the electrochromic device when the driving parameters meet a second preset condition; the driving parameters are the parameters used in the dimming process of the electrochromic device driven by the driving voltage output by the voltage regulator module.

[0026] In one possible design, the driving parameters include at least one of the following:

[0027] The driving voltage output by the voltage regulator module drives the driving current of the electrochromic device when it is dimmed.

[0028] The driving voltage output by the voltage regulator module drives the electrochromic device to dim when it is dimmed.

[0029] The driving duration is the duration from which the electrochromic device is dimmed starting from the driving voltage output from the voltage regulator module.

[0030] In one possible design, the second preset condition includes at least one of the following:

[0031] The driving current is less than or equal to a preset current value;

[0032] The driving power is greater than or equal to the preset power;

[0033] The driving duration is greater than or equal to the second preset duration.

[0034] In one possible design, the device further includes a current detection module. The current detection module is connected to the voltage regulator module and the microcontroller. The current detection module is used to detect the drive current, and the microcontroller obtains the current value of the drive current through the current detection module. The drive current is the current when the drive voltage output by the voltage regulator module drives the electrochromic device to dim. The second preset condition and the drive parameters are related to the drive current.

[0035] The microcontroller is used to determine whether the driving parameters meet the second preset condition based on the driving current.

[0036] In one possible design, the current detection module includes a sampling resistor and a current sampling unit;

[0037] The sampling resistor is connected between the voltage regulator module and the output switch, or the sampling resistor is connected between the output switch and the electrochromic device;

[0038] The input terminal of the current sampling unit is connected to both ends of the current sampling resistor, and the output terminal of the current sampling unit is connected to the microcontroller.

[0039] In one possible design, the microcontroller is also used to acquire the ambient temperature of the electrochromic device, select a target dimming strategy from a plurality of preset dimming strategies based on the ambient temperature, and control the negative pressure generation module to generate a corresponding adjustable voltage according to the target dimming strategy.

[0040] In one possible design, the microcontroller is also used to connect to a thermistor and to acquire the resistance value of the thermistor at the current ambient temperature, and to determine the current ambient temperature based on the resistance value.

[0041] In one possible design, the device further includes a power module connected to the microcontroller, which serves as a power source to provide electrical energy to the microcontroller.

[0042] Secondly, embodiments of this application provide an electrochromic system, which includes a terminal platform, an electrochromic device, and an electrochromic control device as described in the first aspect and various possible designs of the first aspect. The electrochromic control device is used to interact with the terminal platform to control the electrochromic device.

[0043] In one possible design, the electrochromic system is a smart dimming glass, an electrochromic display, a car window, a sunroof, or a rearview mirror.

[0044] Thirdly, embodiments of this application provide an electrochromic control method applied to an electrochromic control device, the electrochromic control device comprising: a microcontroller, a negative pressure generation module, and a voltage regulator module; the negative pressure generation module is connected to the microcontroller and the voltage regulator module, and the method comprises:

[0045] The microcontroller controls the negative pressure generation module to generate an adjustable voltage and outputs the adjustable voltage to the voltage regulation module.

[0046] The voltage regulator module outputs a driving voltage under the adjustment of the adjustable voltage; the lower limit of the range of the adjustable voltage is negative; the driving voltage is used to drive the electrochromic device to dim. Attached Figure Description

[0047] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0048] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the electrochromic control device provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0049] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of the voltage regulator module in the electrochromic control device provided in the embodiment of this application;

[0050] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram of the negative pressure generation module in the electrochromic control device provided in the embodiment of this application;

[0051] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of the electrochromic control device provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0052] Figure 5 is a schematic flowchart of the electrochromic control method provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0053] Figure 6 is a schematic flowchart of the electrochromic control method provided in the embodiment of this application.

[0054] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of the process of generating the driving voltage in the electrochromic control method provided in the embodiment of this application.

[0055] Figure label:

[0056] 10: Electrochromic control device; 101: Microcontroller; 102: Negative pressure generation module; 103: Voltage regulator module; 1031: Linear voltage regulator unit; 104: Voltage detection module; 1041: ADC; 105: Output switch; 106: Drive module; 107: Current detection module; 108: Power supply module; 100: Communication module. Embodiments of the present invention

[0057] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of this application clearer, the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0058] It should be noted that the electrochromic control device provided in this application can be used in the field of electrochromic technology, or in any field other than the field of electrochromic technology. The application fields of the method and device of the electrochromic control device provided in this application are not limited.

[0059] Electrochromic (EC) devices utilize electrochromic materials, which exhibit stable and reversible color changes in their optical properties (reflectivity, transmittance, absorptivity, etc.) under the influence of an applied electric field. This manifests as reversible changes in color and transparency. Electrochromic devices are widely used in smart windows, automotive glass, display devices, and mobile terminals, demonstrating promising market prospects.

[0060] In related technologies, a low-dropout regulator (LDO) or a microcontroller can be used to provide the drive voltage for electrochromic devices. However, the drive voltage required for electrochromic EC devices is relatively low. Conventional LDOs, due to their internal reference voltage, can only output voltages higher than this internal reference voltage. For example, an LDO's internal reference voltage is typically 1.25V, and it can only output voltages greater than 1.25V, not voltages between 0 and 1.25V. Furthermore, conventional microcontrollers have limited output voltage ranges, which cannot meet the low-voltage output requirements of EC devices.

[0061] To solve the above-mentioned technical problems, the inventors of this application have discovered that a negative voltage generation module can be set up to generate a voltage signal with a voltage variation range including negative voltage under the control of a microcontroller. Then, the voltage signal is used to adjust the output of the voltage regulator module to meet the driving requirements of the EC device and provide a lower driving voltage (e.g., 0~2V). Based on this, this application provides an example of an electrochromic control device.

[0062] The technical solutions of this application will be described in detail below with specific embodiments. The following specific embodiments can be combined with each other, and the same or similar concepts or processes may not be described again in some embodiments.

[0063] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of the electrochromic control device provided in an embodiment of this application. As shown in Figure 1, the electrochromic control device 10 includes: a microcontroller 101, a negative pressure generation module 102, and a voltage regulator module 103.

[0064] The microcontroller 101 is also known as a microcontroller unit (MCU).

[0065] The negative voltage generation module 102 is connected to the microcontroller 101 and the voltage regulator module 103, and is used to generate an adjustable voltage under the control of the microcontroller 101 and output the adjustable voltage to the voltage regulator module 103. The lower limit of the adjustable voltage variation range is negative.

[0066] The voltage regulator module 103 is used to output a drive voltage under adjustable voltage regulation. The drive voltage is used to drive the electrochromic device for dimming.

[0067] Specifically, the output voltage range of the voltage regulator module 103 is typically greater than a target value, which is related to a reference voltage (e.g., 1.25V) generated internally by the voltage regulator module 103. The voltage regulator module 103 cannot output a voltage lower than the target value, i.e., it cannot output a voltage between 0V and 1.25V. However, the electrochromic device requires a lower driving voltage range, such as 0V to 2V. Therefore, in order to enable the voltage regulator module 103 to output a lower voltage than the preset value required by the electrochromic device, a negative voltage generation module 102 can be used to generate an adjustable voltage that allows for negative voltages below 0V within the voltage range. This adjustable voltage can then be used to adjust the output of the voltage regulator module 103 to obtain the lower driving voltage required by the electrochromic device. For example, when the voltage output of the negative voltage generation module 102 is negative, the voltage regulator module 103 can output a driving voltage of 0V-1.25V; when the voltage output of the negative voltage generation module 102 is positive, the voltage regulator module 103 can output a driving voltage of 1.25V-2V.

[0068] In the specific implementation process, the microcontroller 101 can generate a control signal and send the control signal to the negative voltage generation module 102. The negative voltage generation module 102 generates a corresponding adjustable voltage according to the control signal and sends the adjustable voltage to the voltage regulator module 103. The voltage regulator module 103 adjusts the input voltage Vin under the adjustment of the adjustable voltage to obtain the driving voltage Vout, and then outputs the driving voltage to the electrochromic device to drive and dim the electrochromic device.

[0069] There are several ways for the microcontroller 101 to generate control signals. In one possible implementation, the microcontroller 101 can be connected to a button component (such as a knob, button, or touchscreen). The microcontroller 101 receives dimming commands input by the user through the button component and then generates control signals based on these commands. In another possible implementation, a communication component can be configured to receive remote control from a terminal device or remote control, and generate control signals based on the dimming commands input by the user through the terminal device or remote control. In yet another possible implementation, a startup strategy can be built into the microcontroller 101. For example, a timer can be used to generate control signals at preset time points, or control signals can be generated when a specific temperature is reached based on changes in ambient temperature.

[0070] In some embodiments, in order to precisely control the dimming effect of the electrochromic device, the magnitude of the driving voltage can be determined by combining the current state (e.g., transmittance 10%) and the target state (e.g., transmittance 50%) of the electrochromic device. Specifically, the microcontroller 101 is used to acquire the current state and the target state of the electrochromic device, and control the negative pressure generation module 102 to generate an adjustable voltage based on the current state and the target state.

[0071] In this embodiment, the microcontroller 101 acquires the current state and target state of the electrochromic device. This can be achieved by the microcontroller 101 actively acquiring the target state input by the user through methods such as touchscreen, button pressing, or knob rotation. Alternatively, the microcontroller 101 can passively receive a dimming command and then receive the target state based on that command. The current state can be the state recorded internally by the microcontroller 101 after the last gear shift, which can then be retrieved internally. Alternatively, the microcontroller can actively acquire the current state of the electrochromic device after receiving the dimming command. Then, based on the current state and the target state, the negative pressure generation module 102 is controlled to generate an adjustable voltage.

[0072] Specifically, a lookup table is generated based on the current and target states, pre-storing different electrochromic devices. This lookup table includes the driving voltage and / or adjustable voltage corresponding to different transmittance differences. For example, if the current transmittance is 10% and the target transmittance is 50%, then the driving voltage required for a 40% transmittance difference and the adjustable voltage can be looked up. After determining the target value of the required adjustable voltage, the negative voltage generation module 102 can be controlled to generate the corresponding adjustable voltage, so that the voltage regulator module 103 generates the driving voltage based on the adjustable voltage to drive the electrochromic device.

[0073] In some embodiments, to facilitate remote operation by the user, the electrochromic control device 10 includes a communication interface and a communication module 100. The communication module 100 connects the communication interface and the microcontroller 101. The communication module 100 receives dimming commands input by the user through the communication interface and sends the dimming commands to the microcontroller 101. The dimming commands carry the target state of the electrochromic device. Specifically, the microcontroller 101 is used to receive or acquire the target state of the electrochromic device in response to receiving the dimming commands.

[0074] In some embodiments, to achieve quick control at close range, hardware components such as buttons (such as switch K5 in Figure 4), knobs, and touch screens can be provided to receive dimming commands input by the user. Specifically, the microcontroller 101 is used to receive touch signals and, in response to the touch signals, acquire the target state of the electrochromic device.

[0075] The electrochromic control device 10 provided in this embodiment, by setting a negative voltage generation module 102, generates a voltage signal with a voltage variation range including negative voltage under the control of a microcontroller 101, and then uses the voltage signal to adjust the voltage regulator module 103 to output a lower driving voltage that meets the driving requirements of the EC device.

[0076] In some embodiments, the voltage regulator module 103 includes a voltage divider unit and a linear voltage regulator unit 1031.

[0077] The first end of the voltage divider unit is connected to the negative pressure generation module 102, the voltage divider output end of the voltage divider unit is connected to the adjustment end of the linear voltage regulator unit 1031, and the second end of the voltage divider unit is connected to the output end of the linear voltage regulator unit 1031. It is used to divide the voltage between the first end and the second end of the voltage divider unit to obtain a voltage divider signal and output the voltage divider signal to the adjustment end of the linear voltage regulator unit.

[0078] The input terminal of the linear regulator unit 1031 is connected to the input voltage and is used to output the drive voltage under the regulation of the voltage divider signal.

[0079] In some embodiments, the voltage divider unit includes a first resistor R1 and a second resistor R2.

[0080] One end of the first resistor R1 is connected to the output terminal of the linear voltage regulator unit 1031, and the other end of the first resistor R1 is connected to the adjustment terminal of the linear voltage regulator unit 1031. One end of the second resistor R2 is connected to the output terminal of the negative voltage generation module 102.

[0081] In some embodiments, the negative voltage generation module 102 can generate an adjustable voltage in various ways. In one possible implementation, the negative voltage generation module 102 can generate a PWM signal through a dedicated pulse width modulation (PWM) generation module, and proportionally adjust the PWM signal to obtain an adjustable voltage.

[0082] In another possible implementation, the PWM signal generation module can be integrated into the microcontroller 101, and the negative voltage generation module 102 receives the PWM signal generated by the microcontroller 101 and proportionally adjusts the PWM signal to obtain an adjustable voltage.

[0083] Specifically, as shown in Figure 3, the negative pressure generation module 102 may include a proportional adjustment unit.

[0084] The microcontroller 101 is also used to generate PWM signals and send the PWM signals to the proportional control unit.

[0085] The proportional adjustment unit, connected to the microcontroller 101, is used to proportionally adjust the voltage variation range of the PWM signal to obtain an adjustable voltage.

[0086] In some embodiments, the proportional adjustment unit includes a first amplifier A1, a third resistor R3, a fourth resistor R4, a fifth resistor R5, and a sixth resistor R6. One end of the third resistor R3 is connected to the output terminal of the microcontroller 101. The other end of the third resistor R3 is connected to one end of the fourth resistor R4, and one end of the fourth resistor R4 is also connected to the non-inverting input terminal of the first amplifier A1. One end of the fifth resistor R5 is connected to a preset voltage source, and the other end of the fifth resistor R5 is connected to the inverting input terminal of the first amplifier A1 and one end of the sixth resistor R6. The other end of the sixth resistor R6 is connected to the output terminal of the first amplifier A1 and the voltage regulator module 103.

[0087] The controller 101 outputs a PWM signal. One end of the fourth resistor R4 is connected between the other end of the third resistor R3 and the non-inverting input of the first amplifier A1, and the other end of the fourth resistor R4 is grounded. The inverting input of the first amplifier A1 is connected between the other end of the fifth resistor R5 and one end of the sixth resistor R6.

[0088] In one embodiment, the proportional adjustment unit further includes a capacitor C1, one end of which is connected between the other end of the third resistor R3 and one end of the fourth resistor R4, and the other end of the capacitor C1 is grounded.

[0089] For example, as shown in Figures 2 and 3, assume that the EC drive voltage requirement is 0~2V, that is, the Vout output needs to be 0~2V.

[0090] The linear regulator unit 1031 includes a low-dropout regulator (LDO). Based on the relationship between the LDO output voltage and Vadj, we know that Vout = Vadj + Vref, where Vref is the internal reference voltage of the LDO, typically 1.25V (different values ​​may apply to special chips). That is, Vout = Vadj + 1.25V. Since the Vout output range is 0~2V, the Vadj range is -1.25V to 0.75V.

[0091] Based on the virtual short and virtual open characteristics of operational amplifiers: ,

[0092] but: .

[0093] To simplify the calculation, let R6=R4 and R3=R5, that is, Vadj=R6 / R5(V1-V2).

[0094] Furthermore, we can let R6=R5, then Vadj= V1-2.5V, from which we get the input range of V1 as 1.25V~3.25V. If the maximum amplitude of PWM is 5V, then the PWM output duty cycle is 25%~65%.

[0095] Therefore, when the MCU adjusts the PWM output duty cycle to between 25% and 65%, the required Vout output voltage of 0 to 2V can be obtained, thus meeting the EC electrochromic drive requirements. The value of V2 can be half of the maximum amplitude of the PWM, balancing the positive and negative voltage ranges within the voltage range.

[0096] In another possible implementation, to save resources of the microcontroller 101, a dedicated PWM signal generation unit can be set up to generate PWM signals. Specifically, the negative voltage generation module 102 includes a pulse width modulation (PWM) signal generation unit and a proportional adjustment unit. The PWM signal generation unit is connected to the microcontroller 101 and is used to generate PWM signals under the control of the microcontroller 101. The proportional adjustment unit is connected to the PWM signal generation unit and is used to proportionally adjust the voltage variation range of the PWM signal to obtain an adjustable voltage.

[0097] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG3, the proportional adjustment unit includes a first amplifier A1, a third resistor R3, a fourth resistor R4, a fifth resistor R5, and a sixth resistor R6; one end of the third resistor R3 is connected to the output terminal of the PWM signal generation unit, the other end of the third resistor R3 is connected to one end of the fourth resistor R4, and one end of the fourth resistor R4 is also connected to the non-inverting input terminal of the first amplifier A1; one end of the fifth resistor R5 is connected to a preset voltage source, the other end of the fifth resistor R5 is connected to the inverting input terminal of the first amplifier A1 and one end of the sixth resistor R6, and the other end of the sixth resistor R6 is connected to the output terminal of the first amplifier A1 and the voltage regulator module 103.

[0098] In some embodiments, a voltage detection module can be provided to detect the driving voltage value and ensure an accurate driving voltage is provided to the electrochromic device. Specifically, circuit 10 also includes a voltage detection module. The voltage detection module is connected to the output terminals of microcontroller 101 and voltage regulator module 103. The voltage detection module is used to detect the driving voltage, obtain the actual driving voltage value, and output the actual voltage value to microcontroller 101. Microcontroller 101 is also used to determine a target voltage value based on the target state. If the actual voltage value is inconsistent with the target voltage value, it controls the negative voltage generation module 102 to adjust the adjustable voltage until the actual driving voltage value is consistent with the target voltage value. The target voltage value can be determined based on the current state and target state of the EC device.

[0099] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG4, the voltage detection module is an analog-to-digital converter (ADC1041); the input terminal of the ADC1041 is connected to the output terminal of the voltage regulator module 103, and the output terminal of the ADC1041 is connected to the microcontroller 101. The ADC1041 is used to perform analog-to-digital conversion on the driving voltage to obtain the actual voltage value, and outputs the actual voltage value to the microcontroller 101. Alternatively, the microcontroller 101 obtains the actual voltage value through the ADC1041.

[0100] For example, in the specific operation process, the microcontroller 101 can determine the target voltage value of the driving voltage based on the current state of the electrochromic device (e.g., transmittance of 10%) and the target state (e.g., transmittance of 50%). After determining the target voltage value, the microcontroller 101 controls the negative voltage generation module 102 to generate an adjustable voltage based on the target voltage value and sends the adjustable voltage to the voltage regulator module 103. The voltage regulator module 103 regulates the received input voltage under the adjustment of the adjustable voltage and outputs the driving voltage. In this process, the actual voltage value of the driving voltage is detected by the ADC 1041. When the actual voltage value is greater than the target voltage value, the microcontroller 101 adjusts the adjustable voltage output by the negative voltage generation module 102 to adjust the magnitude of the driving voltage output by the voltage regulator module 103 so that the actual voltage value of the driving voltage decreases. Similarly, when the actual voltage value is less than the target voltage value, the actual voltage value of the driving voltage can be increased.

[0101] It should be noted that the driving voltage is detected by the voltage detection module to ensure that the driving voltage is close to the target voltage value. To improve accuracy, this can be done throughout the entire dimming process, or to save power, it can be done only when the driving voltage first reaches the target voltage value. The specific settings can be made according to the actual accuracy requirements and power saving requirements.

[0102] In some embodiments, to output a driving voltage at an appropriate time (e.g., when the driving voltage reaches a target voltage value) for accurate driving of the electrochromic device, the circuit 10 further includes an output switch 105. The voltage regulator module 103 is connected to the electrochromic device via the output switch 105. A microcontroller 101 is connected to the control terminal of the output switch 105. The microcontroller 101 controls the output switch 105 to conduct when the driving voltage output by the voltage regulator module 103 meets a first preset condition, thus outputting the driving voltage to the electrochromic device. The conduction of the output switch 105 includes forward conduction and reverse conduction. In forward conduction, a positive driving voltage is applied to the electrochromic device to charge it. In reverse conduction, a reverse driving voltage is applied to the electrochromic device to discharge it.

[0103] In some embodiments, the first preset condition includes: the actual voltage value of the driving voltage is consistent with the target voltage value.

[0104] For example, as shown in Figure 4, in the specific implementation process, after being stimulated by an external power source, the power module 108 converts the external input power into the voltage range required for system operation, and the system starts normally. The MCU starts and initializes all peripheral interfaces (A1 to A4, B1 to B4) to ensure that the initial values ​​are in a reasonable state and enters the standby state. When the communication module 100 receives an external dimming communication command or button signal K5, the MCU starts to drive the negative voltage generation module 102 to adjust the output drive voltage of the voltage regulator module 103 (LDO, R1, and R2) in real time according to the current state and target state of the electrochromic device. The MCU collects the data through the ADC 1041 and feeds it back to the MCU system. The MCU continues to drive the PWM module to adjust the LDO output according to the feedback value until the output drive voltage reaches the target voltage value. After the drive voltage reaches the target voltage, the output switch 105 can be controlled to turn on, and the drive voltage can be output to the electrochromic device to drive the electrochromic device to dim.

[0105] In some embodiments, the microcontroller 101 is specifically used to control the output switch 105 to turn on when the driving voltage output by the voltage regulator module 103 meets the first preset condition, so as to output the driving voltage to the positive or negative terminal of the electrochromic device.

[0106] Specifically, when the direction of the applied voltage to the positive and negative terminals of the EC device changes, the transmittance is adjusted in opposite directions. That is, when it is necessary to increase the transmittance, one voltage direction is used, and when it is necessary to decrease the transmittance, the opposite voltage direction is used. Therefore, the drive voltage can be selected and connected to the positive or negative terminal of the EC device through the output switch 105 so as to increase or decrease the transmittance.

[0107] In some embodiments, the output switch 105 includes a first switch K1, a second switch K2, a third switch K3, and a fourth switch K4; one end of the first switch K1 is grounded, the other end of the first switch K1 is connected to the negative terminal of the electrochromic device and one end of the third switch K3, the other end of the third switch K3 is connected to the output terminal of the voltage regulator module 103 and one end of the fourth switch K4, the other end of the fourth switch K4 is connected to the positive terminal of the electrochromic device and one end of the second switch K2, and the other end of the second switch K2 is grounded.

[0108] The negative terminal of the electrochromic device is connected between the other end of the first switch K1 and one end of the third switch K3. The positive terminal of the electrochromic device is connected between the other end of the fourth switch K4 and one end of the second switch K2.

[0109] For example, as shown in Figure 4, when switches K1 and K4 are closed and switches K2 and K3 are open, the driving voltage is connected to the positive terminal EC_P of the EC device, and the negative terminal EC_N of the EC device is grounded, and the driving voltage is output to the EC device in the positive direction. Conversely, when switches K2 and K3 are closed and switches K1 and K4 are open, the driving voltage is connected to the negative terminal EC_N of the EC device, and the positive terminal EC_P of the EC device is grounded, and the driving voltage is output to the EC device in the reverse direction.

[0110] In some embodiments, to effectively control each switch in the output switch 105, as shown in FIG4, the control circuit 10 may further include a drive module 106. For example, when the drive voltage is greater than the control voltage of the microcontroller 101 on the output switch 105, the control voltage of the microcontroller 101 is too low, causing it to be unable to drive the opening and closing of each switch in the output switch 105. In this case, by adding the drive module 106, the opening and closing of each switch can be effectively controlled.

[0111] The microcontroller 101 is connected to the control terminal of the output switch 105 via the driver module 106; the driver module 106 is used to control the output switch 105.

[0112] In some embodiments, in order to effectively stop dimming and ensure the dimming effect, the microcontroller 101 is further configured to control the output switch 105 to shut off the path between the voltage regulator module 103 and the electrochromic device when the driving parameters meet the second preset condition. The driving parameters are the parameters used by the driving voltage output by the voltage regulator module 103 to drive the electrochromic device during the dimming process.

[0113] Specifically, after the output switch 105 is turned on, during the dimming process driven by the EC device through the drive voltage, real-time detection can be performed to determine whether the dimming termination condition has been met. The detection objects can be various, such as dimming duration, the magnitude of the dimming drive current, and the charging amount (the integral value of the drive current).

[0114] In some embodiments, the driving parameters include at least one of the following:

[0115] The driving voltage output by the voltage regulator module 103 drives the driving current of the electrochromic device when it is dimming.

[0116] The driving voltage output by the voltage regulator module 103 drives the electrochromic device to dim when it is dimmed.

[0117] The driving duration is the starting time for the driving voltage output by the self-regulating module 103 to drive the electrochromic device to dim.

[0118] Accordingly, in some embodiments, the second preset condition includes at least one of the following:

[0119] The drive current is less than or equal to the preset current value;

[0120] The driving power is greater than or equal to the preset power.

[0121] The driving duration is greater than or equal to the second preset duration.

[0122] In some embodiments, a current detection module 107 can be provided to detect the drive current. Specifically, as shown in FIG4, the control circuit 10 further includes a current detection module 107. The current detection module 107, together with the voltage regulator module 103 and the microcontroller 101, is used to detect the drive current, and the microcontroller 101 obtains the current value of the drive current through the current detection module 107. The drive current is the current when the drive voltage output by the voltage regulator module 103 drives the electrochromic device to dim; the second preset condition and drive parameters are related to the drive current. Specifically, the microcontroller 101 is used to determine whether the drive parameters meet the second preset condition based on the drive current.

[0123] Specifically, the current detection module 107 can process the current in several ways. In one possible implementation, the voltage difference across the sampling resistor can be directly obtained by the microcontroller, and then converted into a current value after internal processing by the microcontroller 101. In another possible implementation, the current detection module can perform calculations based on the voltage difference across the sampling resistor and send the calculated current value to the microcontroller 101.

[0124] In some embodiments, the current detection module 107 includes a sampling resistor and a current sampling unit; the sampling resistor is connected between the voltage regulator module 103 and the output switch 105, or between the output switch 105 and the electrochromic device; the input terminal of the current sampling unit is connected to both ends of the current sampling resistor, and the output terminal of the current sampling unit is connected to the microcontroller 101.

[0125] For example, as shown in Figure 4, in the specific implementation process, after being stimulated by an external power source, the power module 108 converts the external input power into the voltage range required for system operation, and the system starts normally. The microcontroller 101 starts to initialize all peripheral interfaces (A1 to A4, B1 to B4), ensuring that the initial values ​​are in a reasonable state and entering standby mode. When the communication module 100 receives an external dimming communication command or button signal K5, the microcontroller 101 starts to drive the negative voltage generation module 102 to adjust the output drive voltage of the voltage regulator module 103 (LDO, R1, and R2) in real time according to the current state and target state of the electrochromic device. The output drive voltage is collected by the ADC 1041 and fed back to the microcontroller 101 system. The microcontroller 101 continues to drive the PWM module to adjust the LDO output according to the feedback value until the output drive voltage reaches the target voltage value. After the drive voltage reaches the target voltage, the output switch 105 can be controlled to turn on, outputting the drive voltage to the electrochromic device to drive the electrochromic device to dim. In one configuration, the current sampling resistor is positioned between the LDO and the output switch 105. During dimming, the driving current in the path between the LDO and the output switch 105 is measured through the sampling resistor. When the driving current is less than or equal to a preset current value, it indicates that the EC device has completed charging, and driving the EC device can be stopped. For example, driving the EC device can be stopped by turning off the output switch 105. In another configuration, the current sampling resistor is positioned between the output switch 105 and the EC device. During dimming, the driving current in the path between the output switch 105 and the LDO is measured through the sampling resistor. When the driving current is less than or equal to a preset current value, it indicates that the EC device has completed charging, and driving the EC device can be stopped. For example, driving the EC device can be stopped by turning off the output switch 105.

[0126] In some embodiments, considering that the characteristics of the electrochromic device change with temperature, the ambient temperature can be acquired in real time to adopt a corresponding dimming strategy. The microcontroller 101 is also used to acquire the ambient temperature of the electrochromic device, select a target dimming strategy from multiple preset dimming strategies based on the ambient temperature, and control the negative voltage generation module 102 to generate a corresponding adjustable voltage according to the target dimming strategy.

[0127] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG4, the microcontroller 101 is also used to connect to a thermistor; and is also used to acquire the resistance value of the thermistor at the current ambient temperature, and determine the current ambient temperature based on the resistance value.

[0128] For example, taking the EC device as a dimmable glass, a thermistor can be placed on the dimmable glass to collect the ambient temperature and send the ambient temperature to the microcontroller 101. The microcontroller 101 selects the corresponding dimming strategy from a number of pre-stored dimming strategies based on the temperature value.

[0129] In some embodiments, for ease of integration, a power module 108 may be provided. Specifically, as shown in FIG4, the electrochromic control device 10 further includes a power module 108; the power module 108 is connected to the microcontroller 101 and is used as a power source to provide power to the microcontroller 101.

[0130] For example, the power input module connects to the power module 108 through the A1 and A2 interfaces of the electrochromic control device 10. The power module 108 performs voltage regulation or step-down processing on the input power to obtain the system power supply voltage VCC, which powers the microcontroller 101.

[0131] The working process of the electrochromic control device 10 is illustrated below with reference to Figures 4, 6 and 7.

[0132] In the specific implementation process, after being stimulated by an external power source, the power module 108 converts the external input power into the voltage range required for system operation, and the system starts normally. The MCU starts and initializes all peripheral interfaces (A1 to A4, B1 to B4) to ensure that the initial values ​​are in a reasonable state and enters standby mode. The MCU obtains the ambient temperature collected by the NTC through interfaces B1 and B2 and determines the dimming strategy based on the ambient temperature. When the communication module 100 receives an external dimming communication command or button signal K5, the MCU starts driving the negative voltage generation module 102 to adjust the output drive voltage of the voltage regulator module 103 (LDO, R1, and R2) in real time according to the current state and target state of the electrochromic device and the selected dimming strategy. The MCU collects the data through the ADC 1041 and feeds it back to the MCU system. The MCU continues to drive the PWM module to adjust the LDO output according to the feedback value until the output drive voltage reaches the target voltage value. Once the driving voltage reaches the target voltage, the output switch 105 can be turned on via the switch control signal input from the MCU to the driving module 106, outputting the driving voltage to the electrochromic device to drive it for dimming. During dimming, the driving current in the path between the LDO and the output switch 105 is collected through a sampling resistor. When the driving current and / or driving duration meet the second preset condition, it indicates that the EC device has completed dimming, and driving the EC device can be stopped. For example, driving the EC device can be stopped by turning off the output switch 105.

[0133] As shown in Figure 6, with the MCU as the execution entity, in the above dimming process, the MCU first initializes and detects the dimming command or dimming button signal in real time. If the dimming command or dimming button signal is detected, the MCU starts to execute the dimming task (including the driving voltage generation process and the dimming process after the output switch 105 is turned on) according to the current state of the EC device. During the dimming process, the MCU determines whether the dimming is completed. If it is completed, the output of the driving voltage can be turned off, and the MCU waits for the next dimming command or dimming button signal (K5 signal). If it is not completed, the MCU continues to dim based on the driving voltage (optionally, it is not necessary to adjust the driving voltage according to the current state).

[0134] As shown in Figure 7, with the MCU as the execution entity, after starting the dimming task according to the current state, the process of adjusting the output drive voltage of the negative voltage generation module 102 and the LDO module can include first adjusting the negative voltage generation module 102 to output an adjustable voltage, then using the ADC 1041 to read the actual voltage value of the drive voltage output by the LDO in real time, and determining whether the target voltage value has been reached. If it has been reached, monitoring continues or stops. If it has not been reached, the process returns to adjusting the output of the negative voltage generation module 102 to output a new adjustable voltage.

[0135] This application also provides an electrochromic system, including an electrochromic device and an electrochromic control device as described in the above embodiments.

[0136] The electrochromic system provided in this application embodiment generates a voltage signal with a voltage variation range including negative voltage through a negative voltage generation module in the electrochromic control device under the control of a microcontroller. Then, the voltage signal is used to adjust the voltage regulator module to output a lower driving voltage that meets the driving requirements of the EC device.

[0137] In some embodiments, the electrochromic system is a smart dimming glass, an electrochromic display, a window, a sunroof, or a rearview mirror.

[0138] Figure 5 is a flowchart illustrating the electrochromic control method provided in an embodiment of this application. Applied to the electrochromic control device as described in the above embodiment, the electrochromic control device includes: a microcontroller, a negative pressure generation module, and a voltage regulator module; the negative pressure generation module is connected to the microcontroller and the voltage regulator module, as shown in Figure 5. The method includes:

[0139] 501. The microcontroller controls the negative voltage generation module to generate an adjustable voltage and outputs the adjustable voltage to the voltage regulator module.

[0140] 502. The driving voltage is output through the voltage regulator module under the adjustment of the adjustable voltage; the lower limit of the adjustable voltage variation range is negative; the driving voltage is used to drive the electrochromic device for dimming.

[0141] The electrochromic control method provided in this application generates a voltage signal with a voltage variation range including negative voltage under the control of a microcontroller through a negative voltage generation module. Then, the voltage signal is used to adjust the voltage regulator module to output a lower driving voltage that meets the driving requirements of the EC device.

[0142] In some embodiments, the voltage regulator module includes a voltage divider unit and a linear voltage regulator unit; a first terminal of the voltage divider unit is connected to a negative voltage generation module, a voltage divider output terminal of the voltage divider unit is connected to an adjustment terminal of the linear voltage regulator unit, and a second terminal of the voltage divider unit is connected to an output terminal of the linear voltage regulator unit. The method includes: dividing the voltage between the first terminal and the second terminal of the voltage divider unit to obtain a voltage divider signal, and outputting the voltage divider signal to the adjustment terminal of the linear voltage regulator unit; and outputting a drive voltage under the adjustment of the voltage divider signal through the linear voltage regulator unit.

[0143] In some embodiments, the voltage divider unit includes a first resistor and a second resistor; one end of the first resistor is connected to the output terminal of the linear voltage regulator unit, the other end of the first resistor is connected to the adjustment terminal of the linear voltage regulator unit and one end of the second resistor, and the other end of the second resistor is connected to the output terminal of the negative voltage generation module.

[0144] In some embodiments, the method further includes: generating a PWM signal through a microcontroller and sending the PWM signal to a negative voltage generation module; and proportionally adjusting the voltage variation range of the PWM signal through the negative voltage generation module to obtain an adjustable voltage.

[0145] In some embodiments, the proportional adjustment unit includes a first amplifier, a third resistor, a fourth resistor, a fifth resistor, and a sixth resistor; one end of the third resistor is connected to the output terminal of the microcontroller, the other end of the third resistor is connected to one end of the fourth resistor, and one end of the fourth resistor is connected to the non-inverting input terminal of the first amplifier; one end of the fifth resistor is connected to a preset voltage source, the other end of the fifth resistor is connected to the inverting input terminal of the first amplifier and one end of the sixth resistor, and the other end of the sixth resistor is connected to the output terminal of the first amplifier and the voltage regulator module.

[0146] In some embodiments, the negative pressure generation module includes a PWM signal generation unit and a proportional adjustment unit; the PWM signal generation unit is connected to a microcontroller, and the proportional adjustment unit is connected to the PWM signal generation unit. The method includes: generating a PWM signal under the control of the microcontroller through the PWM signal generation unit; and proportionally adjusting the voltage variation range of the PWM signal through the proportional adjustment unit to obtain an adjustable voltage.

[0147] In some embodiments, the proportional adjustment unit includes a first amplifier, a third resistor, a fourth resistor, a fifth resistor, and a sixth resistor; one end of the third resistor is connected to the output terminal of the PWM signal generation unit, the other end of the third resistor is connected to one end of the fourth resistor, and one end of the fourth resistor is connected to the non-inverting input terminal of the first amplifier; one end of the fifth resistor is connected to a preset voltage source, the other end of the fifth resistor is connected to the inverting input terminal of the first amplifier and one end of the sixth resistor, and the other end of the sixth resistor is connected to the output terminal of the first amplifier and the voltage regulator module.

[0148] In some embodiments, the method includes: acquiring the current state and target state of the electrochromic device through a microcontroller, and controlling a negative voltage generation module to generate an adjustable voltage based on the current state and target state.

[0149] In some embodiments, the device further includes a communication module; the communication module is connected to a microcontroller, and the method further includes: receiving a dimming command carrying a target state through the communication module and sending the dimming command to the microcontroller; and parsing the dimming command through the microcontroller to obtain the target state.

[0150] In some embodiments, the method includes: receiving a touch signal via a microcontroller, and in response to the touch signal, acquiring a target state of the electrochromic device.

[0151] In some embodiments, the device further includes a voltage detection module; the voltage detection module is connected to the output terminals of the microcontroller and the voltage regulator module, and the method further includes: detecting the driving voltage through the voltage detection module to obtain the actual voltage value of the driving voltage, and outputting the actual voltage value to the microcontroller; determining the target voltage value through the microcontroller according to the target state; if the actual voltage value is inconsistent with the target voltage value, controlling the negative voltage generation module to adjust the magnitude of the adjustable voltage until the actual voltage value of the driving voltage is consistent with the target voltage value, and outputting the driving voltage to the electrochromic device.

[0152] In some embodiments, the voltage detection module is an analog-to-digital converter (ADC); the input terminal of the ADC is connected to the output terminal of the voltage regulator module, and the output terminal of the ADC is connected to the microcontroller. The method includes: performing analog-to-digital conversion on the driving voltage using the ADC to obtain the actual voltage value, and outputting the actual voltage value to the microcontroller.

[0153] In some embodiments, the device further includes an output switch; the output switch is connected between the voltage regulator module and the electrochromic device; the microcontroller is connected to the control terminal of the output switch, and the method includes: when the driving voltage output by the voltage regulator module meets a first preset condition, the microcontroller controls the output switch to turn on, and outputs the driving voltage to the electrochromic device.

[0154] In some embodiments, the first preset condition includes: the actual voltage value of the driving voltage is consistent with the target voltage value.

[0155] In some embodiments, the method includes: when the driving voltage output by the voltage regulator module meets a first preset condition, controlling the output switch to turn on, and outputting the driving voltage to the positive or negative terminal of the electrochromic device.

[0156] In some embodiments, the output switch includes a first switch, a second switch, a third switch, and a fourth switch; one end of the first switch is grounded, the other end of the first switch is connected to the negative terminal of the electrochromic device and one end of the third switch, the other end of the third switch is connected to the output terminal of the voltage regulator module and one end of the fourth switch, the other end of the fourth switch is connected to the positive terminal of the electrochromic device and one end of the second switch, and the other end of the second switch is grounded.

[0157] In some embodiments, the device further includes a drive module; the microcontroller is connected to the control terminal of the output switch via the drive module; the method further includes controlling the output switch via the drive module.

[0158] In some embodiments, the method further includes: controlling an output switch to shut off the path between the voltage regulator module and the electrochromic device when the driving parameters meet a second preset condition using a microcontroller; the driving parameters are the parameters used in the dimming process of the electrochromic device driven by the driving voltage output by the voltage regulator module.

[0159] In some embodiments, the driving parameters include at least one of the following: the driving current when the driving voltage output by the voltage regulator module drives the electrochromic device to dim; the driving power when the driving voltage output by the voltage regulator module drives the electrochromic device to dim; and the driving duration starting from the driving voltage output by the voltage regulator module driving the electrochromic device to dim. Correspondingly, the second preset condition includes at least one of the following: the driving current is less than or equal to a preset current value; the driving power is greater than or equal to a preset power; and the driving duration is greater than or equal to a second preset duration.

[0160] In some embodiments, the device further includes a current detection module; the current detection module is connected to the voltage regulator module and the microcontroller, and the method further includes: detecting the drive current through the current detection module and sending the detected current data to the microcontroller; the microcontroller determines the current value of the drive current based on the current data. The drive current is the current when the drive voltage output by the voltage regulator module drives the electrochromic device to dim; the second preset condition and drive parameters are related to the drive current; the microcontroller determines whether the drive parameters meet the second preset condition based on the drive current.

[0161] In some embodiments, the current detection module includes a sampling resistor and a current sampling unit; the sampling resistor is connected between the voltage regulator module and the output switch, or the sampling resistor is connected between the output switch and the electrochromic device; the input terminal of the current sampling unit is connected to both ends of the current sampling resistor, and the output terminal of the current sampling unit is connected to the microcontroller.

[0162] In some embodiments, the method further includes: acquiring the ambient temperature of the electrochromic device through a microcontroller, selecting a target dimming strategy from a plurality of preset dimming strategies based on the ambient temperature, and controlling a negative pressure generation module to generate a corresponding adjustable voltage based on the target dimming strategy.

[0163] In some embodiments, the method further includes: connecting a microcontroller to a thermistor, acquiring the resistance value of the thermistor at the current ambient temperature, and determining the current ambient temperature based on the resistance value.

[0164] In some embodiments, the device further includes a power module; the power module is connected to the microcontroller, and the method further includes providing power to the microcontroller by using the power module as a power source.

[0165] The electrochromic control method provided in this application embodiment can be applied to the electrochromic control device of the above embodiment. Its implementation principle and technical effect are similar, and will not be described again here.

[0166] This application also provides a computer-readable storage medium storing computer-executable instructions, which, when executed by a processor, implement the electrochromic control method as described in any of the above embodiments.

[0167] This application also provides a computer program product, including a computer program that, when executed by a processor, implements the electrochromic control method of the above embodiments.

[0168] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of this application, and are not intended to limit them. Although this application has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some or all of the technical features therein. Such modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application.

Claims

1. An electrochromic control device, characterized in that, Includes a microcontroller, a negative pressure generation module, and a voltage regulator module; The negative voltage generation module is connected to the microcontroller and the voltage regulator module. The negative voltage generation module is used to generate an adjustable voltage under the control of the microcontroller and output the adjustable voltage to the voltage regulator module. The lower limit of the range of variation of the adjustable voltage is a negative value. The voltage regulator module is used to output a driving voltage under the adjustment of the adjustable voltage; the driving voltage is used to drive the electrochromic device to dim.

2. The apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The microcontroller is also used to generate a PWM signal and send the PWM signal to the negative pressure generation module; The negative voltage generation module is used to proportionally adjust the voltage variation range of the PWM signal to obtain the adjustable voltage.

3. The apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The negative pressure generation module includes a PWM signal generation unit and a proportional adjustment unit; The PWM signal generation unit is connected to the microcontroller, and the PWM signal generation unit is used to generate a PWM signal under the control of the microcontroller. The proportional adjustment unit is connected to the PWM signal generation unit, and the proportional adjustment unit is used to proportionally adjust the voltage change range of the PWM signal to obtain the adjustable voltage.

4. The apparatus according to claim 3, characterized in that, The proportional adjustment unit includes a first amplifier, a third resistor, a fourth resistor, a fifth resistor, and a sixth resistor; One end of the third resistor is connected to the output terminal of the PWM signal generation unit or the output terminal of the microcontroller, and the other end of the third resistor is connected to one end of the fourth resistor. One end of the fourth resistor is also connected to the non-inverting input terminal of the first amplifier. One end of the fifth resistor is connected to a preset voltage source, the other end of the fifth resistor is connected to the inverting input terminal of the first amplifier and one end of the sixth resistor, and the other end of the sixth resistor is connected to the output terminal of the first amplifier and the voltage regulator module.

5. The apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The voltage regulator module includes a voltage divider unit and a linear voltage regulator unit; The first end of the voltage divider unit is connected to the negative pressure generation module, the voltage divider output end of the voltage divider unit is connected to the adjustment end of the linear voltage regulator unit, and the second end of the voltage divider unit is connected to the output end of the linear voltage regulator unit. The voltage divider unit is used to divide the voltage between the first end and the second end of the voltage divider unit to obtain a voltage divider signal, and output the voltage divider signal to the adjustment end of the linear voltage regulator unit. The linear voltage regulator unit is used to output a drive voltage under the regulation of the voltage divider signal.

6. The apparatus according to claim 5, characterized in that, The voltage divider unit includes a first resistor and a second resistor; One end of the first resistor is connected to the output terminal of the linear voltage regulator unit, the other end of the first resistor is connected to the adjustment terminal of the linear voltage regulator unit and one end of the second resistor, and the other end of the second resistor is connected to the output terminal of the negative pressure generation module.

7. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1-6, characterized in that, The device also includes a voltage detection module; The voltage detection module is connected to the output terminals of the microcontroller and the voltage regulator module. The voltage detection module is used to detect the driving voltage, obtain the actual voltage value of the driving voltage, and output the actual voltage value to the microcontroller. The microcontroller is also used to determine the target voltage value according to the target state. If the actual voltage value is inconsistent with the target voltage value, the microcontroller controls the negative voltage generation module to adjust the magnitude of the adjustable voltage until the actual voltage value of the driving voltage is consistent with the target voltage value, and outputs the driving voltage to the electrochromic device.

8. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1-6, characterized in that, The device also includes an output switch; The output switch is connected between the voltage regulator module and the electrochromic device; The microcontroller is connected to the control terminal of the output switch. The microcontroller is used to control the output switch to turn on when the driving voltage output by the voltage regulator module meets the first preset condition, so as to output the driving voltage to the electrochromic device. The first preset condition includes: the actual voltage value of the driving voltage is consistent with the target voltage value.

9. The apparatus according to claim 8, characterized in that, The output switch includes a first switch, a second switch, a third switch, and a fourth switch; One end of the first switch is grounded, and the other end of the first switch is connected to the negative terminal of the electrochromic device and one end of the third switch. The other end of the third switch is connected to the output terminal of the voltage regulator module and one end of the fourth switch. The other end of the fourth switch is connected to the positive terminal of the electrochromic device and one end of the second switch. The other end of the second switch is grounded.

10. The apparatus according to claim 8, characterized in that, The microcontroller is further configured to control the output switch to shut off the path between the voltage regulator module and the electrochromic device when the driving parameters meet a second preset condition; the driving parameters are the parameters used by the driving voltage output by the voltage regulator module to drive the electrochromic device during the dimming process; wherein the driving parameters include at least one of the following: The driving voltage output by the voltage regulator module drives the driving current of the electrochromic device when it is dimmed. The driving voltage output by the voltage regulator module drives the electrochromic device to dim when it is dimmed. The driving duration is the starting point for driving the electrochromic device to dim using the driving voltage output from the voltage regulator module; The second preset condition includes at least one of the following: The driving current is less than or equal to a preset current value; The driving power is greater than or equal to the preset power; The driving duration is greater than or equal to the second preset duration.

11. The apparatus according to claim 10, characterized in that, The device also includes a current detection module; The current detection module is connected to the voltage regulator module and the microcontroller. The current detection module is used to detect the driving current, and the microcontroller obtains the current value of the driving current through the current detection module. The driving current is the current when the driving voltage output by the voltage regulator module drives the electrochromic device to dim. The second preset condition and the driving parameters are related to the driving current. The microcontroller is used to determine whether the driving parameters meet the second preset condition based on the driving current.

12. The apparatus according to claim 11, characterized in that, The current detection module includes a sampling resistor and a current sampling unit; The sampling resistor is connected between the voltage regulator module and the output switch, or the sampling resistor is connected between the output switch and the electrochromic device; The input terminal of the current sampling unit is connected to both ends of the current sampling resistor, and the output terminal of the current sampling unit is connected to the microcontroller.

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