Electrochromic Device Spacer Rib Structure
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional electrochromic devices have a reduced effective surface area when assembled into window or rear-view mirror frames due to the need for protective members that obstruct the transparent electrode layers, limiting their light transmission control functionality.
Innovation Solution
The electrochromic device design includes light-transmissive substrates with transparent electrodes, a looped spacer, and a rib member that defines an accommodation space for the electrochromic laminate, allowing for a larger effective surface area while maintaining structural integrity and ease of electrical connection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If protective members are added to protect exposed transparent electrode layers, then reliability is improved, but effective surface area is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the protective function with the bonding function by integrating the protective members into the adhesive layer structure. The adhesive layer serves dual purposes: bonding the substrates together and protecting the exposed transparent electrode layers, thereby eliminating the need for separate protective members that would reduce the effective surface area.
Solution Approach 2:
The adhesive layer is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as a bonding agent to join substrates, provides mechanical support, and serves as a protective barrier for the transparent electrode layers. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for dedicated protective components that would occupy space and reduce the effective surface area.
2Stability of the object's composition
If frame structure is added to retain electrochromic device, then stability is improved, but effective surface area is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the framing/retention function into the adhesive layer and substrate assembly. The adhesive layer extends to the periphery of the substrates and provides both bonding and structural support, while the substrates themselves are designed with sufficient rigidity to provide structural support, eliminating the need for additional external frame structures that would reduce the effective surface area.
Solution Approach 2:
The adhesive layer and substrate assembly perform multiple functions: they bond the electrochromic laminate, provide mechanical support, ensure structural stability, and eliminate the need for separate framing components. This multi-functionality allows the device to maintain full surface area while achieving stable retention.
3Ease of operation
If transparent electrode layers are exposed to apply electric field, then ease of operation is improved, but vulnerability to damage is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the electrical connectivity function with the protective function in the transparent electrode layers. The electrodes are designed to extend to the substrate edges to ensure complete electrical coverage for electric field application, while the adhesive layer simultaneously provides protection to these exposed electrode regions, resolving the conflict between operational accessibility and vulnerability.
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 design maintains a larger effective surface area for light control and facilitates easy electrical connections, enhancing the functionality of the electrochromic device without reducing its surface area when integrated into frames.
Implementation Method 1
An electrochromic device is capable of varying its light transmission in response to the application of an electric field
Data Source
AI summary
In an electrochromic device, upper and lower electrodes are formed respectively on upper and lower substrates, and an electrochromic laminate is sandwiched between upper and lower central regions of the upper and lower electrodes. A looped spacer is disposed between the upper and lower electrodes to surround the electrochromic laminate. A rib member extends from the looped spacer and is fitted in a slot of the upper electrode. An upper electrode contact is disposed between the looped spacer and an upper marginal region of the upper electrode. A lower electrode contact is disposed between the looped spacer and a lower marginal region of the lower electrode.