Electro-optic Window EMI Shield via Conductive Foam Bezel
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Solution Overview
Problem
Aircraft window assemblies lack effective solutions for integrating electrochromic elements with electromagnetic shielding to manage light infiltration and electromagnetic interference while maintaining aesthetic and functional integrity.
Innovation Solution
The aircraft window foam mounting assembly incorporates an electrochromic element within a foam bezel with an electrically conductive member that extends from the inner to the outer wall, providing electromagnetic shielding and reducing light infiltration by using conductive materials like foam inserts, strips, or sheets, and fabric gaskets to secure the electrochromic element in place.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If an electrochromic element is integrated into the window assembly, then light infiltration is reduced and passenger comfort is improved, but electromagnetic interference increases and requires additional shielding
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the electrochromic element integration with electromagnetic shielding by incorporating conductive members (foam inserts, strips, or sheets) and fabric gaskets into the window assembly structure. The conductive members are integrated into the bezel and mounting structure, merging the functions of electrochromic element securing and EMI shielding into a unified assembly that addresses both light control and electromagnetic interference simultaneously
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces conductive members as intermediary elements between the electrochromic element and the surrounding structure. These conductive foam inserts, strips, or sheets act as mediators that provide electromagnetic shielding while also serving as mounting structures to secure the electrochromic element in place, thereby addressing both EMI protection and element integration
2Object-affected harmful factors
If conductive materials are added for electromagnetic shielding, then EMI protection is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The conductive members in the patent serve multiple functions simultaneously: they provide electromagnetic shielding, act as mounting structures to secure the electrochromic element, and in some cases contribute to the structural integrity of the assembly. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, thereby simplifying the overall device complexity despite adding EMI protection capabilities
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes composite material structures, particularly conductive foam materials that combine the insulating properties of foam with the electromagnetic shielding properties of conductive additives. These composite materials integrate multiple functions within a single material system, reducing assembly complexity while providing both EMI protection and structural support
3Reliability
If multiple components are integrated into the window assembly, then functional integrity is improved, but manufacturing cost and production time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the window assembly into distinct functional modules: the electrochromic element, the bezel structure, the conductive shielding members, and the fabric gaskets. This segmentation allows for independent manufacturing and testing of each component, which can then be assembled through standardized interfaces, thereby maintaining functional integrity while enabling parallel production and reducing overall manufacturing time
Solution Approach 2:
The conductive members and fabric gaskets are pre-positioned and pre-configured within the bezel structure during manufacturing. This preliminary action ensures that when the electrochromic element is installed, the shielding and mounting functions are already in place, reducing assembly time and ensuring proper functional integrity without requiring complex post-assembly adjustments
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 solution effectively darkens the window upon activation, significantly reducing light infiltration and acting as an electromagnetic shield, enhancing passenger comfort and reducing electromagnetic interference, while being cost-effective and easy to manufacture across various aircraft types.
Implementation Method 1
An electrochromic element is disposed in the opening and is configured for reception in the channel of the inner wall
Implementation Method 2
An electrically conductive member formed from a foam material is operably coupled to the foam bezel and extends from the inner wall to the outer wall
Data Source
Figure 1A~1C
Figure 2~3
Figure 4~5
AI summary
An aircraft window foam mounting assembly having an exterior pressure pane frame including an inner surface and an outer surface. A pressure pane is in abutting contact with the inner surface of the exterior pressure pane frame. A foam bezel is proximate a periphery of the pressure pane and defines an inner opening. The foam bezel includes an inner wall and an outer wall. The inner wall includes a channel. An electrochromic element is disposed in the opening and is configured for reception in the channel of the inner wall. An electrically conductive member is operably coupled to the foam bezel and extends from the inner wall to the outer wall.