Multi-Zone Electrochromic Windows Without Visible Scribe Lines
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Solution Overview
Problem
Electrochromic windows with multiple tinting zones face challenges in achieving seamless tint control 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 created by partial cutting of the transparent conductor layer, allowing independent operation of tinting zones without physical bifurcation, and the use of lengthwise variable bus bars to produce tint gradients, ensuring seamless tint control and aesthetic appeal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If physical segmentation of the monolithic EC device is used to create multiple tinting zones, then independent operation of zones is achieved, but visible scribe lines and functional impairment occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by creating multiple independently controllable tinting zones within a single monolithic EC device. Each zone has its own bus bars and can be controlled independently through selective voltage application, allowing different tint levels in different regions without physically dividing the device structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements local quality by applying voltage selectively to specific zones through dedicated bus bars. This allows each zone to have its own optical properties (tint level) independently adjusted, creating local variations in the device's optical characteristics without affecting the entire device or creating visible boundaries.
2Adaptability or versatility
If physical segmentation with scribe lines is used to create zones, then independent zone control is possible, but aesthetic appearance deteriorates due to bright lines
Solution Approach 1:
The device is segmented into multiple controllable zones through electrical isolation using resistive zones and separate bus bars, rather than physical scribe lines. This segmentation allows independent control of each zone while maintaining the visual continuity of the monolithic device structure.
Solution Approach 2:
Resistive zones act as intermediaries between adjacent tinting zones, providing electrical isolation to enable independent control. These resistive zones are positioned at the boundaries between zones and prevent current leakage, allowing each zone to be controlled independently without visible scribe lines.
3Reliability
If a monolithic EC device is used without physical segmentation, then functional integrity is maintained, but independent zone operation cannot be achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The monolithic device achieves local quality control through selectively applying voltage to different regions. Each zone can be tinted or cleared independently by controlling the voltage applied to its specific bus bars, creating local variations in optical properties while maintaining the device's structural integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
Resistive zones serve as intermediaries that enable independent zone operation within a monolithic device. These zones provide electrical isolation between adjacent regions, allowing current to be directed selectively to specific zones through their respective bus bars, thus achieving multi-zone control without physical segmentation.
4Adaptability or versatility
If resistive zones are created by partial cutting of the transparent conductor layer, then independent zone operation is enabled, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device structure is segmented into multiple zones through the strategic placement of resistive zones and separate bus bars. This segmentation is achieved through controlled partial cutting or patterning of the transparent conductor layer, creating distinct electrical regions that can be independently controlled.
Solution Approach 2:
The transparent conductor layer's electrical properties are changed locally by partially cutting or patterning it to create resistive zones. This parameter change (from continuous conductor to segmented conductor with varying resistance) enables independent zone control while maintaining the overall monolithic device structure.
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 enables electrochromic windows to achieve uniform and gradient tinting without visible scribe lines, maintaining functional integrity and providing customizable tinting options, enhancing both functionality and user experience.
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.
Implementation Method 2
The two or more tinting zones are separated from one another by a resistive zone which inhibits, at least partially, the flow of electrons, ions or both between adjacent zones
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 3A~3B
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.