Electrochromic Film Central Control System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrochromic devices lack efficient and centralized control systems for managing the optical states of multiple smart windows, particularly in large buildings, which complicates local and global control and requires external power sources.
Innovation Solution
The integration of electrochromic devices with a central control device, wireless communication protocols like ZigBee, and self-contained, self-powered controllers that include power converters, signal receivers, and power outputs, allowing for local and global control of electrochromic films without external power, using wireless charging and energy harvesting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If electrochromic devices are integrated with glass windows to create smart windows, then the optical properties can be controlled locally and globally, but the installation complexity increases and external power sources are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the control unit with the electrochromic device to create an integrated self-contained unit. The control unit includes a power converter, signal receiver, and power output, all integrated within the smart window assembly. This merging eliminates the need for separate external power sources and control devices, thereby reducing installation complexity while maintaining full control capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated control unit serves multiple functions: it receives power from various sources (solar cells, wireless charging), processes control signals (both local and global), and drives the electrochromic film. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed, simplifying installation while preserving adaptability.
2Ease of operation
If external power sources are used to control electrochromic films, then the optical state can be changed, but the system requires external power connections and wiring
Solution Approach 1:
The smart window system is designed to be self-powered through integrated solar cells and wireless charging capabilities. The power converter receives power from these self-contained sources and manages the electrochromic film operation autonomously. This self-service approach eliminates external power connections and wiring, reducing installation complexity while maintaining ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical power connections (wires and external power sources) with wireless power transmission and solar energy harvesting. The power converter accepts power from wireless charging or solar cells and converts it to drive the electrochromic film, eliminating the need for physical power connections and simplifying installation.
3Ease of operation
If multiple smart windows are controlled independently with local control units, then each window can be controlled individually, but the system lacks centralized control capability
Solution Approach 1:
The control unit is designed with universal functionality to handle both local and global control modes. The signal receiver can process control signals from local sources (user input at the window) and global sources (central building management system). This multi-functionality allows the same integrated unit to provide both independent local control and centralized global control, enhancing adaptability without adding complexity.
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 efficient, centralized control of multiple electrochromic devices, reducing installation complexity and eliminating the need for external power sources, while ensuring reliable operation and energy independence.
Implementation Method 1
Electrochromism is a phenomenon displayed by some materials of reversibly changing optical properties by using bursts of charges to cause electrochemical redox (reduction and oxidation) reactions in electrochromic materials.
Implementation Method 2
Electrochromism is a phenomenon displayed by some materials of reversibly changing optical properties by using bursts of charges to cause electrochemical redox (reduction and oxidation) reactions in electrochromic materials.
Implementation Method 3
The electrochromic film includes an electrochromic material layer, a solid polymer electrolyte, and a charge storage layer
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure relates generally to an electrochromic system. The system may include one or more electrochromic devices and a central control device. Each electrochromic device may include two glass layers, two adhesive layers, an electrochromic film, a controller, and a control device. The two adhesive layers may be disposed on inner surfaces of the two glass layers. The electrochromic film may be disposed between the two adhesive layers, the electrochromic film including an electrochromic material layer, a solid polymer electrolyte, and a charge storage layer. The controller may include a power converter, a signal receiver, and a power output. The power converter may be configured to receive power from a power source. The signal receiver may be configured to receive a control signal. The power output may be coupled to the electrochromic film and configured to provide power to the electrochromic film to control optical state of the electrochromic film. The control device may be configured to send the control signal to the signal receiver. The central control device may be configured to globally control optical states of all of the one or more electrochromic devices.