Multi-Zone Electrochromic Window Layout Without Visible Scribe Lines
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrochromic windows suffer from visually distracting scribe lines when divided into separate tinting zones, which compromise the functionality and aesthetic appeal.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a monolithic electrochromic device with independently operable tinting zones separated by resistive zones and configuring bus bars to apply potential across these zones, without physical segmentation, and optionally using obscuring materials to minimize the visibility of bright lines.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If electrochromic windows are divided into separate devices to create multiple tinting zones, then independent control of zones is achieved, but visible scribe lines appear in the viewable area
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple separately controlled electrochromic devices are merged into a single monolithic EC device structure, eliminating the physical boundaries and scribe lines between zones while maintaining independent electrical control through separately configured bus bars for each zone
Solution Approach 2:
The monolithic EC device is segmented into multiple tinting zones through electrical configuration rather than physical division, with each zone having its own bus bar connections that allow independent control without requiring physical separation
2Adaptability or versatility
If bus bars are configured to apply potential across separate zones, then selective tinting is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Different regions of the EC device are assigned different electrical properties through locally configured bus bars, with each zone having its own electrical configuration that allows selective potential application and independent tinting control
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
Achieves flexible tinting without visible scribe lines, maintaining functional integrity and enhancing aesthetic appeal by allowing independent control of tinting zones and reducing the visibility of bright lines.
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.
Implementation Method 2
The two or more tinting zones are separated by a resistive zone which inhibits, at least partially, the flow of electrons, ions or both across the resistive zone.
Implementation Method 3
Bus bars may be configured to enhance coloring of tinting zones. In certain embodiments, bus bars have varying width along their length; the varying width of the bus bars may enhance the tinting front and/or promote selective tinting in a particular tinting zone via voltage gradients.
Data Source
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.