Electrochromic Layer Deposition via Pressure Difference
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current electrochromic devices face challenges in achieving high reliability, enhanced electrochromic efficiency, simplified processing, and cost reduction, particularly in large-area fabrication, with existing methods being unsuitable for large-scale production due to high vacuum conditions and material limitations.
Innovation Solution
The electrochromic device incorporates an ion storage layer and electrochromic layer formed using nickel oxide and titanium oxide particles, and tungsten oxide, respectively, with a non-PMMA electrolyte, where the source powders are accelerated and deposited onto substrates using a pressure difference method, allowing for improved layer formation and reduced thermal treatment requirements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional electrochromic devices are fabricated using existing methods, then basic functionality is achieved, but reliability and electrochromic efficiency are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the material parameters by using nickel oxide and titanium oxide particles with specific size ranges (5-50 nm and 10-60 nm respectively) and controls deposition parameters through pressure difference method, achieving improved layer formation quality and device reliability simultaneously
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs composite materials by combining nickel oxide and titanium oxide in the ion storage layer, and tungsten oxide in the electrochromic layer, creating synergistic effects that enhance both reliability and electrochromic efficiency
2Area of stationary object
If existing fabrication methods are used, then small-scale devices can be produced, but large-area fabrication is not suitable due to high vacuum conditions and material limitations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the complex high vacuum mechanical system with a pressure difference-based deposition system, eliminating the need for high vacuum conditions and enabling simple large-area fabrication processes
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts and eliminates the requirement for high vacuum conditions from the fabrication process, retaining only the essential pressure difference mechanism, thereby simplifying the process for large-scale production
3Reliability
If traditional electrolytes and materials are used, then basic device operation is achieved, but electrochromic efficiency and response speed are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses porous nickel oxide and titanium oxide particles that provide high surface area and efficient ion transport pathways, significantly enhancing electrochromic efficiency and response speed compared to traditional dense materials
Solution Approach 2:
The patent optimizes the local structure by controlling particle size and distribution within specific ranges, creating optimal local environments for ion insertion/extraction that enhance both efficiency and response speed
4Productivity
If conventional fabrication processes are applied, then devices can be manufactured, but process cost and complexity are high
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the ion storage layer and electrochromic layer formation into a single pressure difference deposition process, reducing the number of separate manufacturing steps and lowering overall process complexity and cost
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 approach results in improved characteristics of the ion storage and electrochromic layers, enhancing electrochromic efficiency, reliability, and simplifying the manufacturing process, making it suitable for large-area production while reducing costs.
Implementation Method 1
accelerating the source powder using pressure difference between the powder storage tank and a chamber
Implementation Method 2
providing the accelerated source powder to the heated substrate to form at least one of an ion storage layer or an electrochromic layer
Implementation Method 3
heating a substrate in the chamber
Implementation Method 4
the color of material is transformed by oxidation and reduction reactions when electric current flows to the material
Implementation Method 5
A display in which reactive material moves and changes its color by oxidation and reduction reactions to occur a chemical change when voltage is applied from the outside using the electrochromic phenomenon
Data Source
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AI summary
An electrochromic device including an electrochromic layer and an ion storage layer is provided. The electrochromic device including the electrochromic layer and the ion storage layer includes a first substrate, a second substrate opposite the first substrate, an electrolyte provided between the first substrate and the second substrate, a first electrode provided between the first substrate and the electrolyte, an ion storage layer including titanium oxide and nickel oxide provided between the first electrode and the electrolyte, a second electrode provided between the second substrate and the electrolyte, and an electrochromic layer provided between the second electrode and the electrolyte.