Electrochromic Light Control Element Voltage Dynamics

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing display devices with electrochromic mirrors are limited to reflection type usage and do not support transmission type or multicolor displaying, lacking versatility in brightness control and color display capabilities.

Innovation Solution

A light control method utilizing a pair of substrates with electrodes and an electrolyte layer containing electrochromic material and a mediator, where the applied voltage is varied to achieve a high-quality mirror surface, transmission, and multicolor display states, enabling a high contrast ratio and versatile display modes.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a fixed mirror layer is used in an electrochromic display element, then the device can achieve a mirror surface state, but it cannot support transmission type usage or multicolor displaying

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedisplay mode versatilityVSAvoidelectrode structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dynamics by making the electrode structure variable rather than fixed. The electrochromic layer can dynamically switch between different states (reflection, transmission, multicolor) based on applied voltage, allowing the display element to adapt to different usage modes without requiring multiple fixed structures.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements universality by designing a single electrochromic display element that can perform multiple functions: reflection type display, transmission type display, and multicolor displaying. This is achieved through voltage-controlled state changes of the electrochromic layer, eliminating the need for separate devices for each function.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Manufacturing precision

If the mirror surface state is optimized for high contrast ratio, then the reflection quality improves, but the ability to achieve transmission and multicolor states may be compromised

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemirror surface qualityVSAvoiddisplay mode flexibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies parameter changes by controlling the voltage applied to the electrochromic layer to achieve different display states. By dynamically adjusting voltage parameters, the system can switch between high-contrast reflection mode and transmission/multicolor modes, maintaining mirror surface quality when needed while enabling versatility when required.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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 method allows for a high-quality mirror surface and high contrast ratio, supporting both transmission type and multicolor displaying, enhancing the display device's versatility and user experience.

Implementation Method 1

an electrolyte layer sandwiched between the pair of electrodes and including an electrochromic material containing silver and a mediator

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectrochromism: Electrochromism

Data Source

PatentUS9599873B2Light control method for light control element
Publication Date: 2017.03.21 CHIBA UNIV
  • US9599873B2 patent drawing
  • US9599873B2 patent drawing
  • US9599873B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A light control method for a light control element which can be used even as a transmission-type one, has a high-quality mirror state enabling a high contrast ratio, and enables a display in multiple colors. To this end, in this light control method for a light control element, with respect to a light control element containing a pair of substrates, a pair of electrodes formed on opposed surfaces of the pair of substrates, and an electrolyte layer sandwiched between the pair of electrodes and including an electrochromic material containing silver and a mediator, the applied voltage to be applied between the pair of electrodes is changed in one light control period.