Conductive Substrate Electro-Optic Assembly Switching

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current electro-optic assemblies face challenges in efficiently switching between transmissive and reflective states due to limitations in conductive substrates and electrode configurations, which affect the performance and versatility of electro-optic media in various applications.

Innovation Solution

The electro-optic assembly incorporates a conductive substrate with conduction paths and electrodes on opposite surfaces, with an electro-optic medium in between, allowing for energization through conductive films and substrates, enabling switching between states and adaptable for use in diverse applications such as vehicles, buildings, and eyewear.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If conventional conductive substrates and electrode configurations are used, then the assembly structure is simple, but the switching efficiency between transmissive and reflective states is insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveswitching efficiencyVSAvoidassembly structure
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The conductive substrate is segmented into multiple conductive elements arranged in parallel conduction paths between opposite surfaces. This segmentation allows distributed electrical contact with the electro-optic medium, improving switching efficiency without requiring a completely complex assembly structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The conductive elements are arranged in three-dimensional conduction paths extending through the thickness of the substrate. This dimensional arrangement enables efficient electrical connection to the electro-optic medium while maintaining structural simplicity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Adaptability or versatility

If conventional electrode configurations are used, then the manufacturing process is simple, but the performance and versatility of electro-optic media are limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveelectro-optic media performanceVSAvoidmanufacturing process
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The conductive substrate with multiple conduction paths serves multiple functions: it provides electrical connection to the electro-optic medium, maintains structural support, and enables versatile applications including smart windows and augmented reality eyewear. This multi-functionality improves adaptability without significantly complicating manufacturing.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The configuration of conductive elements and conduction paths can be adjusted to optimize performance for different applications. By changing parameters such as the number, arrangement, and conductivity of elements, the system adapts to various electro-optic media requirements while maintaining manufacturability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

This configuration enhances the ability to switch between transmissive and reflective states, improving the performance and versatility of electro-optic media, enabling applications like smart windows and augmented reality eyewear.

Implementation Method 1

the first substrate is conductive from the first surface to the second surface... a plurality of conduction paths extending from the first surface to the second surface

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectrical conduction: Conduction (electrical)

Implementation Method 2

An electro-optic medium is located between the first electrode and the second electrode... enabling switching between states

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectro-optic effect: Electro-Optic Effects

Data Source

PatentUS20240361618A1Double-sided conducting films
Publication Date: 2024.10.31 GENTEX CORP
  • US20240361618A1 patent drawing
  • US20240361618A1 patent drawing
  • US20240361618A1 patent drawing

AI summary

An electro-optic assembly includes a first substrate that is conductive and has a first surface and a second surface opposite the first surface. A second substrate has a third surface and a fourth surface opposite the third surface. The second and third surfaces face each other to define a gap. A first electrode is coupled to the second surface and a second electrode is coupled to the third surface. An electro-optic medium is located between the first electrode and the second electrode. A first conductive film is coupled to the first surface.