Single Active Layer Electrochromic Device

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing electrochromic devices are complex and costly due to their multi-layered structure, requiring expensive materials and processes for manufacturing.

Innovation Solution

A single active layer electrochromic device comprising a base polymer, acid, oxidant, and conducting polymer or dye, which can transition between light-blocking and light-transmitting states by controlling electrical potential, eliminating the need for multiple layers and complex fabrication processes.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If multiple layers of different materials are used in electrochromic devices, then the device can achieve reversible optical property changes, but the device complexity and manufacturing cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvereversible optical property changeVSAvoidmulti-layer structure

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple functional layers (conductive glass, metal oxide, electrochromic layer, ionic electrolyte layer) into a single active layer containing all necessary components. This single layer includes conducting polymer, dye, and ionic electrolyte integrated together, eliminating the need for separate layers while maintaining the electrochromic function of reversible optical property changes

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The single active layer serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as the electrochromic layer, ionic electrolyte layer, and conductive element. The base polymer provides structural framework, the conducting polymer enables charge transport, the dye provides coloration, and the ionic electrolyte enables ion transport - all within one universal layer

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Reliability

If multiple layers of different materials are used in electrochromic devices, then the device can achieve reversible optical property changes, but the manufacturing cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvereversible optical property changeVSAvoidmanufacturing cost

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent combines multiple functional layers (conductive glass, metal oxide, electrochromic layer, ionic electrolyte layer) into a single active layer containing all necessary components. This single layer includes conducting polymer, dye, and ionic electrolyte integrated together, eliminating the need for separate layers while maintaining the electrochromic function of reversible optical property changes

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses a single active layer that can be easily fabricated and potentially replaced, eliminating the need for expensive multi-layer construction. The simplified structure reduces material costs and manufacturing complexity

Inventive Principle:

Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

3Device complexity

If a single active layer is used, then the device complexity and manufacturing cost are reduced, but the device must integrate multiple functions in one layer

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesingle active layer structureVSAvoidmulti-function integration

Core Design Contradiction:

Device complexityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The single active layer serves multiple functions simultaneously: it acts as the electrochromic layer, ionic electrolyte layer, and conductive element. The base polymer provides structural framework, the conducting polymer enables charge transport, the dye provides coloration, and the ionic electrolyte enables ion transport - all within one universal layer

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The active layer is a composite material containing base polymer, conducting polymer, dye, and ionic electrolyte all integrated together. This composite structure enables multiple functions within a single layer, combining the properties of different materials into one unified active layer

Inventive Principle:

Principle #40Composite materials

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 single active layer device achieves reversible light-blocking and light-transmitting states with reduced manufacturing costs and simplified fabrication, offering efficient energy use and integration into various applications like smart windows and displays.

Implementation Method 1

electrochromic devices are devices the optical properties of which—such as light transmission and absorption, for example—can be altered in a reversible manner through the application of a voltage

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectrochromism: Electrochromism

Implementation Method 2

an electrochemical reaction occurs at the interface of the two active layers (i.e., the electrochromic layer and the electrolyte layer), which changes the redox state of a polymer contained in the electrochromic layer

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectRedox reactions: Redox Reactions

Data Source

PatentUS11815779B2Single active layer electrochromic devices

Publication Date: 2023.11.14 UNIV OF SOUTH FLORIDA

AI summary

In one embodiment, an electrochromic device includes a single active layer configured to be alternately placed in a light-transmitting state in which relatively large amounts of light can be transmitted through the active layer and a light-blocking state in which relatively small amounts of light can be transmitted through the active layer, wherein the device comprises no other layers of material that contribute to transitioning between the two states.