Magnetic Floating Connectors for Damage-Resistant Smart Windows
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing technologies face challenges in efficiently integrating electrochromic windows into window assemblies and frames, particularly in ensuring reliable electrical connections and preventing damage to fragile glass panes during fabrication and handling.
Innovation Solution
The use of detachable and magnetically engaged connectors, such as ferromagnetic elements, for connecting electrochromic devices within insulated glass units (IGUs) and window assemblies, which allow for secure, flexible, and damage-resistant electrical communication, including integrated memory and control circuits for optimal operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If wire assemblies are permanently attached to insulated glass units, then electrical connections are stable, but damage to fragile glass panes occurs during fabrication and handling
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the electrical connection into two separate components: a first connector permanently attached to the IGU and a second connector on the wire assembly that can be detached. This segmentation allows the wire assembly to be removed when not in use, preventing damage to the fragile glass panes during fabrication and handling, while maintaining stable electrical connections when the connectors are engaged.
2Reliability
If connectors are permanently fixed to insulated glass units, then electrical connections are reliable, but manufacturing costs increase and flexibility decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from a static permanent connection to a dynamic detachable connection. The first connector is permanently fixed to the IGU to ensure reliable electrical connection, while the second connector on the wire assembly can be attached or detached as needed. This dynamic approach allows flexibility in manufacturing and installation while maintaining connection reliability when engaged.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical wiring methods with magnetic connectors that use magnetic fields for engagement and detachment. This substitution simplifies the manufacturing process, reduces the need for complex mechanical fastening systems, and allows for easier assembly and disassembly while maintaining reliable electrical connections.
3Reliability
If complex wiring systems are used to ensure reliable electrical connections, then connection stability improves, but device complexity and vulnerability to damage increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical wiring systems with magnetic connectors that utilize magnetic fields for connection. The first connector with its ferromagnetic element and the second connector with corresponding magnetic elements provide stable electrical connections through magnetic attraction, eliminating the need for complex mechanical fastening systems and reducing overall device complexity.
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 ensures reliable electrical connections, reduces manufacturing costs by allowing modular replacement of wire assemblies, and minimizes damage to IGUs during handling and installation, enhancing the efficiency and durability of electrochromic window systems.
Implementation Method 1
The second connector further includes a second ferromagnetic element, which itself may be magnetized. At least one of the first and second ferromagnetic elements is magnetized such that the first and second connectors may magnetically engage one another to provide electrical communication between their respective contacts.
Data Source
AI summary
This disclosure provides connectors for smart windows. A smart window may incorporate an optically switchable pane. In one aspect, a window unit includes an insulated glass unit including an optically switchable pane. A wire assembly may be attached to the edge of the insulated glass unit and may include wires in electrical communication with electrodes of the optically switchable pane. A floating connector may be attached to a distal end of the wire assembly. The floating connector may include a flange and a nose, with two holes in the flange for affixing the floating connector to a first frame. The nose may include a terminal face that present two exposed contacts of opposite polarity.