Electrochromic Rearview Mirror Edge Structure for Stronger Adhesion

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional electrochromic rearview mirrors face issues with the connection strength and aesthetics due to a small, flat outer periphery of the second substrate, leading to easy removal and noticeable chromatic aberration between the decoration fringe and the color-changeable portion.

Innovation Solution

The electrochromic rearview mirror enhances connection capability by incorporating a rough connection face on the second substrate with vertically extending plating layers and conductive glue, along with additional electricity transmission sheets to secure the connection and improve durability.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Shape

If a plastic shell or decoration fringe is used to cover the glass periphery, then the aesthetics appearance is improved, but the connection strength is insufficient leading to easy removal

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaesthetics appearanceVSAvoidconnection strength
Core Design Contradiction:
ShapeVSStrength

Solution Approach 1:

The invention transitions from a flat, two-dimensional connection surface to a three-dimensional rough connection face with vertical extensions. The fourth plating layer forms vertical turning extensions that extend downward from the flat surface, creating a stepped structure that increases connection area and strength while maintaining aesthetic appearance.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

The invention applies different surface qualities to different regions: the front surface remains smooth and reflective for optimal image reflection, while the periphery features a rough connection face with vertical extensions specifically designed for enhanced adhesion. This localized differentiation solves both aesthetic and connection strength requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

2Shape

If a decoration fringe is electroplated on the glass periphery, then the aesthetics appearance is improved, but chromatic aberration occurs between the decoration fringe and color changeable portion

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveaesthetics appearanceVSAvoidchromatic aberration
Core Design Contradiction:
ShapeVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The fourth plating layer serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides the decorative fringe function, acts as an electrical connection layer, forms the rough connection face for enhanced adhesion, and maintains color consistency with the electrochromic portion. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate decoration fringes that would cause chromatic aberration.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The invention merges the decorative fringe function, electrical connection function, and mechanical adhesion function into a single integrated fourth plating layer structure. This eliminates the separate decoration fringe that would cause chromatic aberration while achieving all required functions through one unified component.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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 provides a stronger, more durable connection and improved aesthetics by ensuring the fourth and third plating layers adhere securely to the second substrate's outer periphery, reducing the likelihood of easy removal and enhancing the appearance by minimizing visible edges.

Implementation Method 1

an electrochromic rearview mirror which is capable of producing a change of a color and changing reflectivity of lights by conducting electricity

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectElectrochromism: Electrochromism

Implementation Method 2

a rough connection face on the second substrate with vertically extending plating layers and conductive glue

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSurface roughness enhancement:

Data Source

PatentUS11868017B1Electrochromic rearview mirror
Publication Date: 2024.01.09 SUZHOU CHUANGXIN MATERIAL TECH CO LTD
  • US11868017B1 patent drawing
  • US11868017B1 patent drawing
  • US11868017B1 patent drawing

AI summary

An electrochromic rearview mirror contains: a first substrate, a first plating layer, a second plating layer, a packaging fringe, an electrochromic layer, a first conductive glue, a second conductive glue, at least one third plating layer, at least one fourth plating layer, a second substrate, a first electricity transmission sheet, and a second electricity transmission sheet. The first substrate includes a first face and a second face. The second substrate includes a third face and a fourth face. A respective one fourth plating layer includes a first turning extension which is rough. A respective one third plating layer includes a second turning extension which is rough. The first electricity transmission sheet includes a first conducting portion and a first contact portion. In addition, the second electricity transmission sheet includes a second conducting portion and a second contact portion.