Electrochromic Buffer Layer for Rapid Switching
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional electrochromic devices face challenges in achieving a significant differential between high and low light transmission states and in the speed of state changes while maintaining optimal conductivity and longevity.
Innovation Solution
The introduction of buffer layers in electrochromic devices, specifically a NiOx1 layer or an oxygen deficient ITOX layer, which promotes electron transfer and inhibits deleterious chemical interactions, enabling rapid switching between high and low transparency states while maintaining conductivity and stability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If conventional electrochromic devices use standard electrode and electrolyte configurations, then basic electrochromic function is achieved, but the differential between high and low light transmission states is insufficient and switching speed is slow
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a buffer layer as an intermediary component between the electrochromic layer and the electrode. This buffer layer mediates the interaction between ions/electrons and the electrochromic material, enabling faster ion transport and electron transfer while maintaining stable electrode interfaces. The buffer layer acts as a mediator that resolves the contradiction by providing a controlled interface that enhances both transmission differential and switching speed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent modifies the chemical and physical parameters of the electrode interface by introducing the buffer layer with specific properties (composition, thickness, conductivity). By changing the parameters of the electrode-electrochromic layer interface, the system achieves improved ion transport kinetics and electron transfer efficiency, thereby increasing switching speed while maintaining or enhancing the light transmission differential.
2Duration of action of stationary object
If conventional electrochromic devices operate without buffer layers, then device structure is simpler, but electrode degradation occurs reducing device lifespan
Solution Approach 1:
The buffer layer serves as a protective intermediary between the electrode and the electrochromic layer. It prevents direct harmful interactions (such as chemical reactions or mechanical stress) between the electrode and electrochromic materials, thereby reducing electrode degradation and extending device lifespan. The buffer layer absorbs or mitigates damaging effects while allowing necessary ion and electron transport.
Solution Approach 2:
The buffer layer provides beforehand cushioning by being positioned in advance between the electrode and electrochromic layer to prevent degradation. It acts as a protective barrier that cushions the electrode against harmful effects before they can cause damage, thereby extending device lifespan without significantly complicating the overall structure.
3Reliability
If conventional electrochromic devices lack buffer layers, then manufacturing is simpler, but conductivity and stability during operation are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The buffer layer acts as an intermediary that ensures reliable conductivity and stability during device operation. It provides a stable interface for ion and electron transport, maintaining consistent electrical properties throughout the device lifecycle. The buffer layer mediates the complex interactions at the electrode interface, ensuring reliable performance without requiring complex manufacturing processes.
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 allows for rapid switching between high and low transparency states within seconds, achieving a significant transmittance difference and extending the device's lifespan by preventing electrode degradation.
Implementation Method 1
the buffer layer promotes electron transfer between the second transparent electrode and second electrochromic layer
Implementation Method 2
Conventional electrochromic devices change light transmission and/or light reflection upon the application of an external DC voltage
Implementation Method 3
the electrolyte layer is configured to selectively transfer ions from the first electrochromic layer to the second electrochromic layer upon selective application of electrical potential
Data Source
AI summary
Electrochromic devices having buffer layer(s) that promote electron transfer between the second transparent electrode and second electrochromic layer while concurrently reducing or inhibiting deleterious chemical interaction between the second electrochromic layer and the second electrode and/or maintaining the conductive state of the second electrode and while the device changes the from a low transparency state of approximately 10-20% transmittance in the visible region to a high transparency state of approximately 75% to 95% transmittance in the visible region with at least a 70% difference in transmittance between the low and high transmittance states. In certain aspects, the electrochromic devices change from a low transparency state having a gray color to a high transparency state that is substantially colorless within 20 seconds of applying the selective electrical potential to the electrochromic device. Also disclosed are methods of making the electrochromic devices.