Multi-Zone EC Windows Without Scribe Lines Using Resistive Zones

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Solution Overview

Problem

Electrochromic windows with multiple tinting zones face challenges in achieving flexible tinting without visible scribe lines, as existing methods require physical segmentation of the monolithic device, leading to functional impairment and aesthetically unappealing bright lines.

Innovation Solution

The implementation of a monolithic electrochromic device with resistive zones and independently configurable bus bars allows for selective tinting of zones without physical segmentation, using resistive zones to inhibit electron and ion flow and bus bars to apply voltage gradients, creating tinting zones without visible scribe lines.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If physical segmentation of the monolithic EC device is used to create multiple tinting zones, then flexible tinting control is achieved, but visible scribe lines and functional impairment occur

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetinting zone control flexibilityVSAvoiddevice functional integrity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies segmentation by dividing the monolithic EC device into multiple independently controllable tinting zones through strategic placement of bus bars and application of voltage gradients, allowing selective tinting of different regions without physically segmenting the device structure

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements local quality by creating zones with different electrical resistance characteristics through selective bus bar placement and voltage gradient application, enabling each zone to have tailored tinting properties while maintaining the overall monolithic structure

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

2Adaptability or versatility

If physical segmentation of the monolithic EC device is used to create multiple tinting zones, then flexible tinting control is achieved, but visible scribe lines appear

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetinting zone control flexibilityVSAvoidvisible scribe lines

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSIllumination intensity

Solution Approach 1:

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses bus bars as intermediary elements to create electrical resistance variations that define zone boundaries without requiring physical scribe lines, thereby avoiding visible segmentation in the final product

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Illumination intensity

If voltage gradients are applied through bus bars to create tinting zones, then visible scribe lines are eliminated, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvevisibility of scribe linesVSAvoidcontrol system complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Illumination intensityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies dynamics by using controllable bus bars that can be selectively activated to create voltage gradients, allowing the system to dynamically adjust zone boundaries and tinting characteristics based on operational requirements

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements parameter changes by varying electrical resistance and voltage distribution across different regions of the monolithic device through bus bar configuration, creating distinct tinting zones without physical segmentation

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

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 approach enables flexible and aesthetically pleasing tinting control in electrochromic windows by maintaining the functional integrity of the monolithic device, eliminating visible scribe lines and allowing for various tinting schemes, including gradient tinting, while maintaining energy-saving capabilities.

Implementation Method 1

Electrochromism is a phenomenon in which a material exhibits a reversible electrochemically-mediated change in an optical property when placed in a different electronic state, typically by being subjected to a voltage change. For example, one well known electrochromic material is tungsten oxide (WO3). Tungsten oxide is a cathodically tinting electrochromic material in which a tinting transition, bleached (untinted) to blue, occurs by electrochemical reduction.

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectrochromism: Electrochromism

Implementation Method 2

resistive zones to inhibit electron and ion flow

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectrical Resistance: Electrical Resistance

Data Source

PatentUS10914118B2Multi-zone EC windows

Publication Date: 2021.02.09 VIEW OPERATING CORP

AI summary

Thin-film devices, for example, multi-zone electrochromic windows, and methods of manufacturing are described. In certain cases, a multi-zone electrochromic window comprises a monolithic EC device on a transparent substrate and two or more tinting zones, wherein the tinting zones are configured for independent operation.