Electrochromic System Self-Powered Controller Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrochromic devices for smart windows lack efficient and simplified control systems that can operate independently and globally without the need for external power, complicating installations and maintenance.
Innovation Solution
The integration of a self-contained, self-powered controller with a solid polymer electrolyte electrochromic film and wireless charging capabilities, allowing for local and global control of electrochromic devices using ZigBee protocol and eliminating the need for external power sources.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a self-contained controller is integrated into the smart window, then installation is simplified and external power is eliminated, but the device requires internal power storage and management components
Solution Approach 1:
The controller is merged with the smart window assembly, integrating control electronics and power management directly into the window unit. This eliminates the need for separate external control devices and simplifies installation by making the window a self-contained controlled unit.
Solution Approach 2:
The smart window becomes self-powered through integration of power storage (capacitor or battery) and wireless charging capability. The window can recharge itself when not in use, eliminating the need for external power sources and making the system self-sufficient.
2Ease of operation
If wireless charging is implemented, then external power connections are eliminated, but the device requires energy storage components
Solution Approach 1:
Traditional mechanical power connections (wires and plugs) are replaced with wireless charging technology. The smart window contains a power receiver that wirelessly receives energy from a transmitter, eliminating the need for physical power connections and simplifying operation.
Solution Approach 2:
A capacitor or battery serves as an intermediary energy storage component between the wireless power receiver and the electrochromic device. This intermediary stores energy when received wirelessly and provides it when needed to operate the electrochromic film.
3Reliability
If solid polymer electrolyte is used, then ion conductivity and mechanical strength are enhanced, but adhesion and leakage issues must be addressed
Solution Approach 1:
The electrolyte system uses a composite structure combining solid polymer electrolyte with appropriate electrodes and sealing layers. This composite approach maintains the high ion conductivity of the solid polymer while addressing adhesion and leakage through integrated electrode design and sealing mechanisms.
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
Enables independent and centralized control of electrochromic devices in buildings, simplifying installations and maintenance by providing a self-sustaining and wirelessly powered system that enhances ion conductivity and mechanical strength while avoiding issues with adhesion and leakage.
Implementation Method 1
enhances ion conductivity and mechanical strength
Implementation Method 2
Electrochromism is a phenomenon displayed by some materials of reversibly changing optical properties by using bursts of charges to cause electrochemical redox (reduction and oxidation) reactions in electrochromic materials
Implementation Method 3
cause electrochemical redox (reduction and oxidation) reactions in electrochromic materials
Implementation Method 4
utilizing wireless charging
Data Source
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AI summary
The disclosure relates generally to an electrochromic system. The system may include one or more electrochromic devices and a central control device. Each electrochromic device may include two glass layers, two adhesive layers, an electrochromic film, a controller, and a control device. The two adhesive layers may be disposed on inner surfaces of the two glass layers. The electrochromic film may be disposed between the two adhesive layers, the electrochromic film including an electrochromic material layer, a solid polymer electrolyte, and a charge storage layer. The controller may include a power converter, a signal receiver, and a power output. The power converter may be configured to receive power from a power source. The power source may include an energy storage integrated with the controller. The signal receiver may be configured to receive a control signal. The power output may be coupled to the electrochromic film and configured to provide power to the electrochromic film to control optical state of the electrochromic film. The control device may be configured to send the control signal to the signal receiver. The central control device may be configured to globally control optical states of all of the one or more electrochromic devices.