Electrochromic Rear-View Mirror Integrated Shielding Member
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional electrochromic devices used as rear-view mirrors face complexity in fabrication due to the need for different materials for opaque and light-transmissive portions, which adversely affect their appearance and functionality.
Innovation Solution
An electrochromic device design featuring a housing with an electrochromic structure and a cover that includes a light-transmissive protecting plate and a shielding member formed on the surrounding portion of the protecting plate, which covers the peripheral region of the electrochromic structure, eliminating the need for complex material combinations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If the second frame is fabricated with opaque portion and light-transmissive portion using two different materials to conceal protecting members, then the appearance of the electrochromic device is improved, but the fabrication complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the protecting member and the frame into a single integrated structure. The protecting member is formed as an integral part of the frame, eliminating the need for separate opaque and light-transmissive portions made from different materials. This integration simplifies fabrication while maintaining the dual function of protection and aesthetic appearance.
Solution Approach 2:
The frame structure is designed to serve multiple functions simultaneously: it provides structural support, protects the electrochromic device, and conceals the protecting members. By making the frame itself the protecting structure with appropriate optical properties, the patent eliminates the need for additional specialized components.
2Reliability
If the upper and lower substrates are positioned offset to expose contacts for electrical connection, then the electrical functionality is achieved, but the appearance and protection are adversely affected
Solution Approach 1:
The contacts are nested within the integrated frame structure rather than being exposed on the substrate edges. The frame encloses the contacts while maintaining electrical connectivity, allowing the substrates to be positioned for proper electrical contact without compromising appearance or requiring separate protecting members.
3Reliability
If protecting members with spring clips are used to protect exposed substrates and transmit electrical power, then the electrical connection and protection are achieved, but the appearance is adversely affected
Solution Approach 1:
The protecting member is merged with the frame structure, eliminating the need for separate spring clip assemblies. The integrated frame provides both mechanical protection and electrical connectivity through its design, concealing the connection mechanisms while maintaining functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the electrical connection function from the exposed substrate edges and integrates it into the frame structure. By taking out the contacts from the visible substrate areas and incorporating them into the frame, the appearance is improved while electrical functionality is maintained.
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 simplifies the fabrication process and enhances the appearance of the electrochromic device by using a single material for the cover, while maintaining light transmittance and functionality.
Implementation Method 1
An electrochromic device is capable of varying its light transmission in response to the application of an electric field
Data Source
AI summary
An electrochromic device includes a housing, an electrochromic structure, and a cover. The housing defines a receiving space therein and has an opening. The electrochromic structure is disposed in the receiving space, and has a central region and a peripheral region. The electrochromic structure includes an upper substrate, a lower substrate, an upper electrode, a lower electrode, and an electrochromic laminate sandwiched between the upper the lower electrodes. The cover includes a protecting plate covering the opening, and a shielding member disposed between the peripheral region of the electrochromic structure and the protecting plate and covering the peripheral region.