Multi-Layered Electrochromic Device Transmittance Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional electrochromic devices with a single layer structure face limitations in transmittance control and response speed, requiring continuous power to maintain color and lacking efficient transmittance adjustment and memory effects.
Innovation Solution
A multi-layered electrochromic device configuration comprising a first electrochromic layer made of a first electrochromic agent or derivative and a second electrochromic layer made of a second electrochromic agent or derivative, with specific diameter and thickness conditions to enhance transmittance control and discoloration efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single electrochromic layer is used, then the device structure is simple, but the transmittance control function and response speed are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The electrochromic layer is divided into multiple sub-layers (first electrochromic layer, second electrochromic layer, third electrochromic layer) with different electrochromic agents or derivatives. Each layer contributes differently to the overall transmittance control, enabling improved modulation depth and response speed while maintaining manageable structural complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses composite electrochromic structures combining different electrochromic agents (e.g., viologen derivatives, metal oxide nanoparticles) and their derivatives in multiple layers. This composite approach allows each layer to contribute unique properties, achieving superior transmittance control and color stability that cannot be obtained with a single material
2Ease of manufacture
If a single electrochromic layer is used, then the manufacturing process is simple, but the response speed and discoloration efficiency are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The electrochromic layer is segmented into multiple functional sub-layers, each with optimized thickness and material composition. This segmentation allows each layer to contribute to the overall response speed while maintaining ease of manufacture through standardized deposition processes for each layer
Solution Approach 2:
The patent optimizes parameters such as the thickness of each electrochromic layer, the molecular weight and structure of electrochromic derivatives, and the composition ratios of different electrochromic agents. These parameter changes enhance ion diffusion speed and electron transfer efficiency, thereby improving response speed while maintaining manufacturability
3Object-generated harmful factors
If the electrochromic layer thickness is increased to improve blocking rate, then the light-shielding rate increases, but the initial transmittance and response speed decrease
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using a single thick electrochromic layer, the patent divides the total electrochromic material into multiple thinner layers. This segmentation maintains high light-shielding rate when discolored while preserving better initial transmittance and faster response speed, as each thin layer allows more efficient ion diffusion and light transmission in the uncolored state
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs composite electrochromic layers combining different materials (e.g., organic electrochromic agents with inorganic metal oxide nanoparticles). This composite structure enhances the blocking rate when discolored while maintaining thinner overall thickness for better initial transmittance and response performance
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 multi-layered configuration improves transmittance control by increasing transmittance when uncolored and reducing it when discolored, enhancing discoloration efficiency and response speed while maintaining low haze and light-shielding rates.
Implementation Method 1
when the electrochromic thin film absorbs ions or is deprived of ions from an electrolyte, a light absorption layer (color change) may change
Implementation Method 2
the electrochromic agent accompanies discoloration through oxidation and reduction on the surface of a catalyst electrode
Implementation Method 3
The ions constituting the ion conductive layer can move by a voltage applied between the two transparent conductors
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed are an electrochromic device and a manufacturing method therefor. The disclosed electrochromic device may comprise: a first electrochromic layer made of a first electrochromic agent; and a second electrochromic layer located on at least one surface of the first electrochromic layer and made of at least one of a second electrochromic derivative and a second electrochromic agent.