Electrochromic Layer Structure for Low-Temperature Flexible Fabrication
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrochromic devices face challenges in fabrication complexity, high costs, and limitations in flexibility due to high-temperature processes, as well as instability and poor control of electrochromic materials in solution form.
Innovation Solution
The electrochromic device employs a structure with oxidation and reduction chromic layers containing electrochromic nanoparticles and electrolytes, optionally with a polymer cage, fabricated using low-temperature processes, allowing for flexible substrates and improved memory performance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If layer formation process using adsorption is employed, then electrochromic device can be fabricated, but fabrication process becomes complicated and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the electrochromic material from solution form and incorporates it directly into the electrode structure as a composite material. This eliminates the need for separate layer formation processes using adsorption, simplifying the fabrication process while maintaining device functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines the electrochromic material with the electrode structure to form a composite electrode. This merging of materials eliminates multiple fabrication steps and reduces process complexity, directly addressing the contradiction between ease of manufacture and device complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If high-temperature heat treatments are applied, then layer formation is achieved, but application to flexible devices is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the temperature parameter of the fabrication process by using low-temperature sintering instead of high-temperature heat treatments. This parameter change enables the use of flexible substrates that cannot withstand high temperatures, thereby improving adaptability to flexible devices.
3Reliability
If electrochromic material is dissolved in electrolyte solution, then device can operate, but precise control capability and stability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses composite materials where electrochromic particles are embedded in a conductive polymer matrix. This composite structure provides both stability and precise control capability, resolving the contradiction between reliability and manufacturing precision by combining the advantages of different materials.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the liquid electrolyte solution system with a solid composite electrode system. This substitution eliminates the instability and control issues associated with dissolved electrochromic materials while maintaining the electrochromic functionality through the conductive polymer matrix.
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
The device is easier to manufacture, reduces fabrication costs, and exhibits enhanced memory performance by stabilizing the electrochromic material, enabling flexible and efficient operation.
Implementation Method 1
an oxidation chromic layer and a reduction chromic layer
Implementation Method 2
an oxidation chromic layer and a reduction chromic layer
Implementation Method 3
electrochromic layers include an oxidation chromic layer and a reduction chromic layer
Implementation Method 4
an ionically conductive layer which is highly resistant to electrons and highly conductive to ions
Data Source
AI summary
An electrochromic device includes a substrate and electrochromic layers. The electrochromic layers include an oxidative chromic layer and a reductive chromic layer, and the oxidative chromic layer and the reductive chromic layer are arranged in contact with each other in at least one region.