Segmented Switchable Glass for Flexible Light Transmittance Zones
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing switchable glass technologies lack flexibility in switching states to meet diverse user desires, particularly in terms of sub-region number, occupancy range, light transmittance, and relative position.
Innovation Solution
A switchable glass system with a first and second base substrate, electrodes, and a switchable assembly that responds to electrical signals to change from M to N sub-regions, where M and N differ in attributes such as number, occupancy range, and light transmittance, with optional sub-electrodes arranged in various directions for enhanced control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional switchable glass is used with fixed electrode configuration, then the structure is simple, but the switching flexibility and ability to create different sub-region configurations is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The electrode is divided into multiple independent sub-electrodes (first sub-electrode, second sub-electrode, third sub-electrode) that can be independently controlled. This segmentation allows different regions of the switchable glass to be switched independently, creating flexible sub-region configurations while maintaining a manageable electrode structure
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces control in multiple spatial dimensions by arranging sub-electrodes in different orientations (horizontal and vertical arrangements). This dimensional approach enables the creation of various sub-region patterns (horizontal strips, vertical strips, quadrants) without increasing the fundamental electrode structure complexity
2Adaptability or versatility
If the switchable glass is divided into multiple sub-regions with different attributes, then the functionality and user customization are enhanced, but the control complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control system is segmented to match the physical segmentation of the glass. Each sub-electrode has dedicated control circuits that can be independently activated. This allows users to control different sub-regions separately while maintaining simple individual control mechanisms, avoiding the need for complex centralized control
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows partial activation of sub-electrodes, where users can switch only specific regions rather than requiring control over all regions simultaneously. This partial action approach simplifies operation by allowing selective activation based on user needs, reducing the perceived control complexity
3Manufacturing precision
If the switchable assembly changes state in response to electrical signals, then the light transmittance control is precise, but the energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
Electrical energy is applied locally to only those sub-electrodes and corresponding glass regions that require switching. Instead of energizing the entire glass panel, the system provides targeted energy to specific sub-regions, maintaining precise light transmittance control while minimizing overall energy consumption
Solution Approach 2:
The system applies electrical signals partially rather than continuously to all regions. By activating only the necessary sub-electrodes for the desired configuration and allowing other regions to remain in their current state, the system achieves precise control where needed while reducing total energy consumption compared to full-panel switching
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 system provides flexible switching capabilities, allowing for precise control of light transmittance and sub-region configurations to meet specific user needs, enhancing functionality in applications like vehicles.
Implementation Method 1
the switchable assembly is configured to change a state of the switchable assembly in response to an electrical signal applied to at least one of the first electrode or the second electrode
Data Source
Figure 1~2A
Figure 2B~3
Figure 4~5
AI summary
A switchable glass (10) is provided, including: a first base substrate (11) and a second base substrate (21) opposite to each other; a first electrode (12) on the first base substrate (11); a second electrode (22) on the second base substrate (21); and a switchable assembly (3) sandwiched between the first base substrate (11) and the second base substrate (21). The switchable assembly (3) is configured to change a state of the switchable assembly (3) in response to an electrical signal applied to the first electrode (12) and/or the second electrode (22), so that the switchable glass (10) is switched from a first state in which the switchable glass (10) has M regions to a second state in which the switchable glass (10) has N regions. M and N are positive integers greater than or equal to 1. The N regions are different from the M regions in terms of at least one attribute selected from a group consisting of a number of sub-regions, an occupancy range of at least one sub-region, a light transmittance, and a relative position.