Self-Powered Smart Window Light Modulation Without External Power
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current smart windows require an external power source to switch between different optical modes, which is inefficient and limits their application.
Innovation Solution
An electronic device comprising a first and second substrate, a light modulation layer, electrode layers, and a photoelectric conversion component, where the photoelectric conversion component generates electrical energy to control the light modulation layer without an external power source, using a driving circuit connected to the electrode layers to switch between light states.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If an external power source is used to control the smart window to switch between different optical modes, then the light modulation function is achieved, but the device complexity and energy consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The smart window integrates a photoelectric conversion component that converts ambient light into electrical energy, enabling the device to power itself without requiring an external power source. The control circuit uses this self-generated energy to drive the light modulation layer, achieving autonomous operation and eliminating the need for external power connections.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple functions into a single integrated structure: the photoelectric conversion component, control circuit, and light modulation layer are all integrated within the same device architecture. This merging of energy generation, control, and modulation functions eliminates the need for separate external power sources and reduces overall device complexity.
2Ease of operation
If an external power source is connected to the smart window, then the light modulation function is achieved, but the energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The photoelectric conversion component captures ambient light energy and converts it into electrical energy, allowing the device to power itself. This self-service energy generation eliminates the need for external power sources and reduces overall energy consumption by utilizing otherwise wasted ambient light.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent converts ambient light, which would otherwise pass through or be absorbed without utility, into useful electrical energy. By capturing and converting ambient light into power, the device transforms a passive environmental factor into an active energy source, reducing the need for additional energy input.
3Use of energy by moving object
If the photoelectric conversion component is exposed to environmental factors, then the energy generation function is maintained, but the service life decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The photoelectric conversion component is enclosed within a sealed structure formed by the first and second substrates connected via peripheral edges. This encapsulation protects the sensitive photoelectric conversion material from environmental factors such as moisture, oxygen, and dust, while still allowing light to pass through to the active layer, thus extending service life without compromising energy generation.
Solution Approach 2:
The sealed enclosure created by the substrate structure provides a protected environment for the photoelectric conversion component, isolating it from harmful environmental factors. This creates an inert-like protective atmosphere that prevents degradation of the photoelectric material, thereby extending the component's operational lifetime.
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 device achieves power-saving operation by generating its own energy, reducing the need for external power and enhancing the service life of the photoelectric conversion component by isolating it from environmental factors.
Implementation Method 1
a photoelectric conversion component disposed between the first substrate and the second substrate
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic device includes a first substrate, a second substrate, a light modulation layer, a first electrode layer, a second electrode layer, a photoelectric conversion component and a driving circuit. The second substrate is disposed opposite to the first substrate. The light modulation layer is disposed between the first substrate and the second substrate. The first electrode layer is disposed between the first substrate and the light modulation layer. The second electrode layer is disposed between the second substrate and the light modulation layer. The photoelectric conversion component is disposed between the first substrate and the second substrate. The driving circuit is disposed between the first substrate and the second substrate. The driving circuit is electrically connected to the photoelectric conversion component, and is electrically connected to the first electrode layer and the second electrode layer, respectively.