Flexible Electrochromic Device Polymer Base Layers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current electrochromic devices for smart windows lack flexibility and tensile strength, making them unsuitable for curved applications and prone to damage during transportation and installation, with complex manufacturing processes and high costs.
Innovation Solution
An electrochromic device with a light transmission variable structure interposed between two base layers, comprising a first and second chromic layer separated by an electrolyte layer, offering 60% to 170% elongation and 120 kgf/mm2 to 350 kgf/mm2 tensile strength, allowing for flexible and durable operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a glass-type electrochromic device is used to achieve light transmission control, then the light transmission variable function is achieved, but the device becomes fragile and occupies large storage space
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional rigid glass substrates with flexible polymer base layers (first base layer and second base layer). These polymer layers serve as the structural foundation for the electrochromic device, enabling it to be bent and flexed without breaking. The flexible base layers maintain the device's light transmission control functionality while eliminating the fragility and bulk associated with glass-type constructions.
2Reliability
If silicone finish is applied to seal the device, then moisture penetration is prevented, but the manufacturing process becomes complicated and cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs base layers that serve multiple functions simultaneously: they provide structural support, act as barriers to moisture penetration, and serve as substrates for depositing the electrochromic functional layers. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate silicone sealing layers, simplifying the manufacturing process while maintaining moisture resistance.
3Strength
If the device is made rigid to maintain structural integrity, then mechanical strength is achieved, but flexibility and elongation are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes polymer materials with specifically engineered mechanical properties, achieving elongation values between 60% and 170%. These polymer base layers are designed to exhibit both sufficient strength for structural integrity and high elasticity for flexibility, allowing the device to be bent into curved shapes and stretched without compromising its light transmission control functionality.
4Reliability
If custom sizing is performed for each window to achieve precise fit, then the light transmission control effectiveness is improved, but manufacturing cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a modular laminate structure consisting of discrete layers (base layers, electrochromic layers, electrolyte layers, etc.) that can be manufactured in standard sizes and then cut or configured to fit specific window dimensions. This modular approach allows for standardized mass production while maintaining the ability to customize the final product size and shape, reducing both manufacturing 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
The device achieves reversible light transmission control while maintaining mechanical integrity, enabling application on curved surfaces without performance degradation, reducing storage costs, and enhancing energy efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
A smart window is based on electrochromism. Electrochromism is a phenomenon in which an electrochemical oxidation or reduction reaction takes place as electric power is applied, and an inherent color or optical properties such as light transmittance of an electrochromically active material are changed accordingly.
Data Source
AI summary
The embodiments relate to an electrochromic device having excellent elongation and tensile strength while achieving an excellent light transmission variable function based on the electrochromic principle. The electrochromic device comprises a light transmission variable structure interposed between a first base layer and a second base layer, wherein the light transmission variable structure comprises a first chromic layer and a second chromic layer, an electrolyte layer is interposed between the first chromic layer and the second chromic layer, and the elongation is 60% to 170%.