Electrochromic Element Unit Dynamic Transmittance Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrochromic element units require complex operations to achieve desired transmittance changes, as the amount of change in transmittance is either preset or requires multiple operations, making it difficult to control transmittance to a specific level with a single operation.
Innovation Solution
An electrochromic element unit with a pair of electrodes and an electrochromic layer, featuring a first type operation and a second type operation, where the second type operation allows for a larger change in transmittance, enabling easier setting of desired transmittance levels through distinct operation methods such as button or dial controls.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a preset amount of change in transmittance is used for each operation, then the control is simple, but it requires multiple operations to achieve a desired transmittance change, increasing the complexity of operation
Solution Approach 1:
The operation unit is designed to dynamically change the amount of transmittance change based on the operation mode. The control unit switches between first type operation (small change amount) and second type operation (large change amount) based on user input, making the system adaptable to different control needs without requiring multiple fixed-amount operations
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of transmittance change amount based on the operation type. The control unit adjusts the voltage applied to the EC element differently for first type and second type operations, thereby achieving different transmittance change amounts from the same operation unit without requiring multiple physical controls
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple EC elements are used to achieve desired transmittance, then the transmittance control range is improved, but the operation becomes complicated requiring control of multiple elements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the control of multiple EC elements into a single operation unit. The control unit integrates the control signals and applies combined voltage to multiple EC elements through one operation interface, allowing users to control transmittance across a wide range without the complexity of operating multiple separate controls
Solution Approach 2:
The single operation unit is designed to perform multiple functions: it can control different numbers of EC elements, achieve different transmittance change amounts, and provide both small-step and large-step adjustments. This universal control interface replaces what would otherwise require multiple specialized controls
3Device complexity
If a single operation unit controls transmittance with fixed change amount, then the device structure is simple, but it cannot achieve desired transmittance by a single operation when large change is needed
Solution Approach 1:
The operation unit maintains a simple physical structure but achieves dynamic functionality through the control unit. By switching between different control modes (first type and second type operations), the system provides both small and large transmittance changes from the same simple structure, eliminating the need for multiple physical controls
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
Enables simple and efficient control of transmittance by allowing for different amounts and speeds of transmittance changes, facilitating easier adjustment of light transmission levels without the need for complex operations.
Implementation Method 1
An electrochromic (EC) element is an element in which an optical absorption property (coloration state or light transmittance) of a substance is changed by an electrochemical redox reaction
Data Source
AI summary
An electrochromic element unit includes an electrochromic element having a pair of electrodes and an electrochromic layer disposed between the pair of electrodes, and an operation unit connected to the electrochromic element, wherein the operation unit is capable of performing a first type operation and a second type operation, and wherein change in a transmittance of the electrochromic element by the second type operation is different from change in the transmittance of the electrochromic element by the first type operation.