Segmented Multilayer Film Laser Insulation Crosstalk

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional segmented multilayer films with electrically controllable optical properties often experience undesired changes in optical properties in voltage-free segments due to crosstalk effects, particularly pronounced in electrochromic and PDLC elements, where activation of one segment can affect adjacent segments.

Innovation Solution

A multilayer film is created with insulation lines introduced by laser radiation through one of the carrier films, dividing the first planar electrode and active layer into segments that are electrically insulated from each other, optionally also dividing the second planar electrode, to prevent crosstalk and maintain voltage-free segments' optical properties.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If segmented multilayer films are used to enable independent control of switching regions, then regional independence is improved, but crosstalk effects cause undesired changes in optical properties of voltage-free segments

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveregional independenceVSAvoidoptical property stability

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent divides the multilayer film into multiple electrically insulated segments by introducing insulation lines through laser radiation. These insulation lines physically separate the conductive layers into isolated regions, enabling independent electrical control of each segment while preventing crosstalk effects that would otherwise cause undesired optical changes in voltage-free segments

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The insulation lines act as intermediary elements between adjacent segments. These laser-introduced lines create electrical isolation barriers that mediate the interaction between neighboring segments, preventing direct electrical coupling and the resulting crosstalk effects while maintaining the overall structural integrity of the multilayer film

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If insulation lines are introduced by laser radiation to prevent crosstalk, then electrical insulation is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveelectrical insulationVSAvoidproduction process simplicity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces traditional mechanical or chemical insulation methods with laser radiation technology. The laser introduces insulation lines directly through the multilayer structure without physical contact, eliminating the need for complex mechanical assembly or chemical treatment processes while achieving reliable electrical insulation between segments

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The laser parameters (wavelength, power, pulse duration, scanning speed) are optimized to achieve effective insulation line creation with minimal material damage. By controlling these parameters, the process achieves high electrical insulation reliability while maintaining ease of manufacture through a single-step, non-contact processing approach

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

3Manufacturing precision

If laser radiation is used to introduce insulation lines, then precision is improved, but risk of material damage increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveinsulation line accuracyVSAvoidmaterial damage risk

Core Design Contradiction:

Manufacturing precisionVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The laser operates in pulsed mode rather than continuous wave, delivering energy in periodic bursts. This periodic action allows the material to cool between pulses, preventing excessive heat accumulation and material damage while maintaining precise insulation line formation through controlled energy delivery at optimized pulse frequencies and durations

Inventive Principle:

Principle #19Periodic action

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 solution effectively decouples segments, preventing unwanted changes in optical properties of voltage-free regions, ensuring independent control of each switching region and protecting the planar electrodes and active layers from corrosion and contamination.

Implementation Method 1

at least the first planar electrode and the active layer or the active layer sequence are divided by at least one insulation line into at least two segments that are electrically insulated from one another. The at least one insulation line is introduced by a laser through one of the carrier films at least into the first planar electrode and the active layer or active layer sequence

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectLaser radiation: Laser

Data Source

PatentUS12181741B2Segmented multilayer film with electrically controllable optical properties

Publication Date: 2024.12.31 SAINT GOBAIN SEKURIT FRANCE

AI summary

A multilayer film having electrically controllable optical properties. The multilayer film has a first carrier film, a first planar electrode, an active layer having one or more layers in sequence, a second planar electrode, and a second carrier film, arranged one above the other in a planar manner. The first planar electrode and the active layer and optionally the second planar electrode are divided by at least one insulation line into at least two segments that are electrically insulated from one another. The insulation line is introduced with a laser through one of the carrier films and into the first planar electrode and the active layer and optionally the second planar electrode.