Electrochromic Preform Containment With Vapor Barrier Alignment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrochromic devices for windows face challenges in fitting various shaped and sized openings, requiring improved systems and methods for fabrication and installation.
Innovation Solution
A component and system for containing electrochromic preforms, including a rigid structure with a vapor barrier and reference tool, allowing for alignment and transportation of electrochromic preforms, which can be sealed to protect sensitive elements during transit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If electrochromic preforms are transported without protective components, then transportation is simpler and faster, but the preforms are vulnerable to damage and contamination
Solution Approach 1:
The component features a receiving area that nests the electrochromic preform, with the preform engagement portion pivoting within the component body. This nesting structure protects the preform while maintaining a compact transport system.
Solution Approach 2:
The component is designed to engage with and secure the preform before transportation begins. The pivoting preform engagement portion allows preliminary positioning and securing of the preform in a safe state prior to movement.
2Reliability
If a rigid containment system is used for electrochromic preforms, then protection during transport is improved, but the system becomes heavier and more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The component uses a vapor barrier (film) to protect the preform from contamination, rather than heavy rigid enclosures. This thin film approach provides necessary protection while minimizing weight addition.
Solution Approach 2:
The component serves multiple functions: it protects the preform, provides a vapor barrier, enables alignment, and facilitates transport. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate protective devices, thereby reducing overall weight.
3Manufacturing precision
If electrochromic preforms are aligned manually without reference tools, then the alignment process is faster, but manufacturing precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The reference tool on the component provides self-aligning features that guide the preform into the correct position automatically. This self-service alignment mechanism reduces the need for manual adjustment while maintaining high precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical alignment with a reference tool system that provides automated guidance features, substituting human skill with a mechanical reference system for consistent precision.
4Reliability
If electrochromic preforms are secured tightly in the receiving area, then protection during transport is improved, but the preforms become difficult to load and unload
Solution Approach 1:
The preform engagement portion is designed to pivot between engaged and disengaged positions. This dynamic mechanism allows the component to transition from a secure locked state during transport to an open state for easy loading and unloading.
Solution Approach 2:
The component is segmented into distinct functional portions: the receiving area for securement, the pivoting preform engagement portion for loading/unloading, and the vapor barrier for protection. This segmentation allows each portion to perform its function independently.
Data Source
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AI summary
A system for containing electrochromic preforms comprising: a rigid structure defining a compartment; and a vapor barrier disposed within the compartment and adapted to define a selectively sealable internal volume, wherein a plurality of electrochromic preforms are receivable in the internal volume, and wherein the internal volume defines a reference tool for aligning at least one of the plurality of electrochromic preforms. A component adapted to couple with an edge of an electrochromic preform comprising: a body defining an electrochromic preform engagement portion and a tool engagement portion pivotally coupled with the electrochromic preform engagement portion, wherein reducing a dimension of the tool engagement portion increases a corresponding dimension in the electrochromic preform engagement portion.