Electrochromic Window Device Dynamic Thermal Control

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current glazing solutions, such as passive low E-Glass, are ineffective in dynamically regulating thermal properties of windows in response to changing weather conditions, leading to inefficient heating and cooling in buildings.

Innovation Solution

A device comprising multiple layers of electrodes and a carrier material with orientation-dependent electromagnetic radiation transmission properties, allowing for independent control of electromagnetic radiation transmission through a transparent substrate by adjusting the orientation of molecules within the carrier material in response to applied electric fields.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Loss of energy

If passive low E-Glass is used to block heat transfer through windows, then thermal insulation is improved, but the ability to dynamically adapt to changing weather conditions is lost

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveheat transfer through windowsVSAvoiddynamic regulation of thermal properties

Core Design Contradiction:

Loss of energyVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies the dynamics principle by transforming the static passive low E-Glass into a dynamic system using electrochromic material that can change its optical properties in response to electrical signals. The electrochromic layer transitions between transparent and opaque states, enabling the window to dynamically regulate heat transfer and adapt to varying weather conditions, thereby resolving the contradiction between thermal insulation and adaptability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs parameter changes by altering the optical transmission parameter of the window material through electrical control. The electrochromic material changes its light absorption and transmission characteristics when voltage is applied, allowing the system to adjust thermal properties dynamically. This enables the window to maintain energy efficiency while adapting to different environmental conditions.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

2Illumination intensity

If transparent materials are used for windows, then visibility and natural light are improved, but thermal regulation capability deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvenatural light transmissionVSAvoidunwanted heat gain through windows

Core Design Contradiction:

Illumination intensityVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The patent resolves this contradiction by making the window material dynamic through electrochromic technology. The material can switch between transparent and opaque states, allowing the building to maximize natural light during cooler periods while blocking heat gain during warmer periods. This dynamic adjustment enables simultaneous optimization of illumination and thermal regulation based on real-time conditions.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies periodic action through automated control systems that periodically adjust the electrochromic material's state based on environmental sensors detecting temperature, sunlight intensity, and weather conditions. This periodic adjustment allows the window to rhythmically transition between light transmission and heat blocking modes, optimizing both natural lighting and thermal performance throughout the day and season.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #19Periodic action

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 dynamic control of thermal properties by varying the transmission of electromagnetic radiation through windows, reducing unwanted heat transfer and improving energy efficiency in buildings.

Implementation Method 1

a plurality of molecules configured to change their orientation in the presence of an electric field thereby to alter the transmission of electromagnetic radiation through the device

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectric field effect on molecular orientation: Electric Field

Implementation Method 2

the first plurality of electrodes and the second plurality of electrodes are configured to generate an electric field in the carrier material upon application of a potential difference between the first and second plurality of electrodes

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectric field generation: Electric Field

Data Source

PatentUS20250138383A1Device for Controlling Thermal Properties of Windows

Publication Date: 2025.05.01 UNIV COLLEGE DUBLIN NAT UNIV OF IRELAND DUBLIN

AI summary

A device (1) is provided for controlling transmission of electromagnetic radiation through a transparent substrate. The device comprises a first plurality of electrodes (5a, 5b) arranged as a first layer (2) and a second plurality of electrodes (8a, 8b) arranged as a second layer (4) spaced apart from the first layer. A carrier material (6) is located between the first plurality of electrodes and the second plurality of electrodes comprising a plurality of molecules (10) configured to change their orientation in the presence of an electric field thereby to alter the transmission of electromagnetic radiation through the device. The first plurality of electrodes and the second plurality of electrodes are configured to generate an electric field in the carrier material upon application of a potential difference between the first and second plurality of electrodes, to alter the transmission of electromagnetic radiation through the device.