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 tinting without visible scribe lines, as existing methods require physical segmentation of the monolithic device, leading to functional impairment and aesthetic issues.
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 bifurcation, 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
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If physical segmentation of the monolithic electrochromic device is used to create multiple tinting zones, then zone independence is achieved, but visible scribe lines and aesthetic issues occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the monolithic electrochromic device into multiple independently controllable tinting zones through physical segmentation methods. This allows each zone to be tinted or cleared independently, achieving zone independence while maintaining the overall monolithic structure of the device.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses bus bars as intermediary conductive elements to apply voltage to specific zones without requiring physical cuts through the entire device stack. The bus bars act as mediators that enable independent zone control while avoiding the creation of visible scribe lines, thus resolving the aesthetic issue.
2Adaptability or versatility
If physical segmentation is used to create tinting zones, then selective tinting capability is achieved, but device functionality is impaired
Solution Approach 1:
The device is segmented into multiple functional zones that can be independently controlled. Each zone maintains full electrochromic functionality while being electrically isolated from other zones, allowing selective tinting without impairing the overall device reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic control of each zone through independent voltage application via bus bars. This allows the zones to be tinted or cleared on demand, providing selective tinting capability while maintaining the electrochemical integrity and reliability of the entire device.
3Shape
If bus bars are used to apply voltage gradients, then seamless tinting without scribe lines is achieved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Bus bars are introduced as intermediary conductive elements that simplify the control structure. Instead of requiring complex wiring and physical segmentation, the bus bars provide a straightforward method to apply voltage gradients across zones, achieving seamless appearance while managing device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent controls the tinting state of each zone by changing the voltage parameter applied through the bus bars. By adjusting the voltage gradient, seamless tinting is achieved without requiring complex mechanical or structural changes, thus managing device complexity effectively.
4Adaptability or versatility
If resistive zones are used to inhibit electron and ion flow, then zone isolation is achieved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
Resistive zones act as intermediary regions that inhibit electron and ion flow between adjacent tinting zones. These zones provide electrical isolation without requiring precise physical cuts through the entire device stack, thereby achieving zone isolation while moderating manufacturing precision requirements.
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 seamless tinting across electrochromic windows with multiple zones, maintaining device functionality and aesthetic appeal by eliminating visible scribe lines and allowing for customizable tinting schemes.
Implementation Method 1
resistive zones to inhibit electron and ion flow
Implementation Method 2
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
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.