Segmented Switchable Roof Panel With Shared Electrode Connections
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing transparent roof assemblies for vehicles with optically switchable panels face challenges in providing cost-effective connections for segmented electrode layers, as current connection means do not meet automotive regulations and are not readily available, requiring innovative solutions to manage voltage transformation and electrode segment connections efficiently.
Innovation Solution
A segmented optically switchable panel design featuring a common electrode layer, a signal electrode layer, and a switchable material layer, with strategically arranged external connection pads and conductive sections, allowing for the use of readily available, cost-effective connection means like flexible printed circuits, and enabling efficient electrical connections between electrode segments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a segmented optically switchable panel is used with multiple electrode segments, then independent optical switching of segments is achieved, but the number of individual connections increases making cost-effective connection means unavailable
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple electrode segments are electrically connected in parallel through a single common connection pad, merging multiple individual connections into one shared connection point. This reduces the number of individual connections required while maintaining independent optical switching capability of each segment.
Solution Approach 2:
The common connection pad serves multiple functions by providing electrical connection to multiple electrode segments simultaneously. This universal connection point replaces what would otherwise require multiple separate connection points, simplifying the overall connection architecture.
2Power
If voltage transformation from battery voltage to higher voltage is required, then optically switchable panel operation is enabled, but additional transformation components increase device complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The optically switchable panel integrates voltage transformation functionality within its own structure, eliminating the need for external transformation components. The panel itself provides the necessary high voltage operation while maintaining compatibility with standard battery voltage systems.
3Ease of manufacture
If external connection pads are arranged for cost-effective connection means, then design freedom is increased, but electrical conductivity between segments must be maintained
Solution Approach 1:
The common connection pad acts as an intermediary element that facilitates electrical connection between multiple electrode segments and the external circuitry. This intermediate connection point ensures reliable electrical conductivity while enabling the use of cost-effective connection methods.
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 design provides increased design freedom for arranging external connection pads, enabling the use of cost-effective connection methods and ensuring efficient electrical conductivity, thereby addressing the need for cost-effective and regulated connections in vehicle roof assemblies.
Implementation Method 1
An optically switchable panel, as used herein, is a panel of which an optical property may be changed by an occupant. In particular, the optical property of the optically switchable panel may be changed by application of an electric field. For example, an electrochromic panel is known.
Implementation Method 2
a number of kinds of such a panel that apply a liquid crystal layer are known. Some examples of the latter kind comprise a PDLC (polymer dispersed liquid crystal) layer, a SPD (suspended particle device) layer or a GHLC (guest host liquid crystal) layer.
Implementation Method 3
The electrically conductive section is arranged in the opaque area and comprises an external connection pad, the electrically conductive section thereby providing an electrically conductive path for an electric current.
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 3A~3C
AI summary
A transparent roof assembly comprises a segmented optically switchable panel. The panel comprises a common electrode layer and a signal electrode layer. The signal electrode layer comprises at least two electrode segments, each electrode segment comprising an active section in an optically switchable area and an electrically conductive section in an opaque area. The electrically conductive section comprises an external connection pad. At least one electrically conductive section comprises a first width at a boundary between the active section and the electrically conductive section and comprises a second width at the external connection pad, wherein the second width is smaller than the first width.