Self-Powered Electrochromic Device with Integrated Solar Cell
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional electrochromic devices require an external electrical energy source, which can be inconvenient or impossible when a power outlet is not available, limiting their application in situations where a building's electrical power is not accessible.
Innovation Solution
Integration of a solar cell within the electrochromic device to generate and store electrical energy, along with a controller to apply this energy to the active electrochromic layer, allowing for control of optical properties such as transparency, color, or opacity without external power sources.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If an external electrical power source is used to control the electrochromic device, then the device can operate reliably, but the device requires external wiring and power outlets which may not be available in all locations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the electrochromic device with an integrated power source (solar cell or battery) and control circuitry into a single self-contained unit. This merging eliminates the need for external wiring and power outlets, allowing the device to be installed in locations without electrical infrastructure while maintaining reliable operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The electrochromic device serves itself by incorporating an integrated power source that provides the electrical energy needed for operation. The solar cell or battery autonomously supplies power to the control circuitry and electrochromic layer, eliminating dependence on external power infrastructure and enabling installation in remote or unpowered locations.
2Ease of operation
If an integrated power source is incorporated into the electrochromic device, then external wiring is eliminated, but the device structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the power source, control circuitry, and electrochromic layer into a single unified device structure. This consolidation simplifies installation by eliminating external wiring requirements while the internal components work together as a coordinated system to achieve the desired functionality.
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 self-sufficient operation of electrochromic devices, such as smart glass and window blinds, by harnessing solar energy to control optical properties, eliminating the need for external wiring and power sources, thereby expanding their application possibilities.
Implementation Method 1
the integrated energy source comprises a solar cell
Implementation Method 2
Electrochromism is the physical phenomenon found in certain compositions of reversibly changing predetermined optical properties such as color or light transmittance with an application of an electrical voltage called a control voltage
Data Source
AI summary
An electrochromic device comprising: an active electrochromic layer having optical properties that vary based on an electrical voltage applied to the active electrochromic layer; an integrated energy source integrated within the electrochromic device for generating or storing electrical energy; and a controller operatively coupled to the energy source and the active electrochromic layer for applying the electrical energy generated or stored by the integrated energy source to the active electrochromic layer to achieve the optical properties desired by a user. The described electrochromic device is entirely self-contained and internally produces all the electrical energy necessary for its operation and specifically for the operation of the controller and for controlling the optical properties of the electrochromic layer. In other words, there no external wiring or any kind is required for supplying electric energy to the electrochromic device.