Smart Window Thermal Insulation Layer and Optical Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current smart windows lack effective thermal insulation and projection functions, necessitating an improved electronic device that can balance thermal insulation and display/projection capabilities.
Innovation Solution
An electronic device comprising a light scattering switching element, a light absorbing switching element, and a thermal insulation layer with low thermal conductivity (less than 50×10−3 W·m−1·K−1) is integrated into a smart window, allowing for both thermal insulation and display/projection functions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If a smart window uses absorbing type or scattering type dimming windows, then display functions are achieved, but thermal insulation function is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines light scattering switching element, light absorbing switching element, and thermal insulation layer into a single integrated smart window structure. This merging allows the window to simultaneously achieve display functions (through light scattering and absorbing elements) and thermal insulation function (through the thermal insulation layer with conductivity less than 50×10−3 W·m−1·K−1), resolving the contradiction between display capability and thermal insulation performance
2Temperature
If thermal insulation layer with low thermal conductivity is added, then thermal insulation function is improved, but device structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The smart window structure is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: the light scattering switching element and light absorbing switching element provide both display and thermal control functions, while the thermal insulation layer provides thermal insulation. This multi-functional design allows the system to achieve thermal insulation without requiring separate dedicated components for each function, thereby reducing overall structural complexity despite adding the thermal insulation layer
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 provides enhanced thermal insulation while enabling various modes of operation, including light transmission, shading, and projection, effectively addressing the dual requirements of smart windows.
Implementation Method 1
a thermal insulation layer disposed between the light scattering switching element and the light absorbing switching element, wherein the thermal insulation layer has a thermal conductivity less than 50×10−3 W·m−1·K−1
Implementation Method 2
a light scattering switching element
Implementation Method 3
a light absorbing switching element disposed opposite to the light scattering switching element
Data Source
AI summary
An electronic device includes a light scattering switching element, a light absorbing switching element and a thermal insulation layer. The light absorbing switching element is disposed opposite to the light scattering switching element. The thermal insulation layer is disposed between the light scattering switching element and the light absorbing switching element, wherein the thermal conductivity of the thermal insulation layer is less than 50×10−3 W·m−1·K−1.