Switchable Glazing with Segmented SPD Film
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for creating switchable glazing panels with electrically actuated variable transmission materials, such as SPD films, require multiple sheets and complex electrical connections, making it difficult to selectively switch regions within the glazing and limiting flexibility in configuring switchable areas once the glazing is constructed.
Innovation Solution
Applying an alternating electric field with a frequency greater than 1kHz across an electrically actuated variable transmission layer sandwiched between electrodes allows for selective switching of a region within the layer, enabling graded transmission and allowing for the selection of switchable regions without the need for multiple sheets or complex connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple sheets of SPD film are used to create different switchable regions, then region selection capability is improved, but device complexity and ease of manufacture deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides a single continuous SPD film into multiple electrically isolated regions by introducing discontinuities in the conductive layers. This allows different regions to be independently controlled with different voltages, enabling selective switching of specific areas without requiring multiple separate film sheets.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the conductive layers from being continuous across the entire film, creating isolated conductive regions that correspond to switchable regions. By removing the electrical connectivity between adjacent regions through discontinuities in the conductive layers, independent control of each region is achieved.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple sheets of SPD film are used to create different switchable regions, then region selection capability is improved, but ease of manufacture deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the conductive layers into discontinuous sections within a single film structure, allowing different regions to be independently addressed. This maintains the simplicity of using one continuous film substrate while achieving regional control through electrical segmentation rather than physical segmentation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple switchable regions into a single continuous SPD film structure, unlike the conventional approach of stacking multiple separate films. The discontinuous conductive layers enable independent control of each region while maintaining the structural simplicity and manufacturing advantages of a single film layer.
3Ease of operation
If the entire SPD film is switched uniformly, then transmission state control is simplified, but adaptability to different regional requirements deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the electrical control of the SPD film into independent regions through discontinuous conductive layers. Each region can be controlled by applying different voltages to its corresponding conductive section, enabling selective switching of specific areas while maintaining simple electrical connection methods.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies the principle of local quality by allowing different regions of the SPD film to have different transmission states simultaneously. Each region's conductive layer section can be independently voltage-controlled, enabling localized adjustment of optical properties to meet specific regional requirements.
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 approach enables flexible selection and configuration of switchable regions within the glazing, allowing for non-uniform switching and graded transmission, which can be dynamically adjusted by varying the frequency and voltage of the applied electric field, enhancing the functionality and adaptability of switchable glazing systems.
Implementation Method 1
When an electric field of sufficient magnitude is applied across the SPD film, the transmission characteristics of the film are influenced.
Implementation Method 2
An alternating electric field having a frequency greater than 1kHz is applied between the first and second electrodes such that a selective region of the layer in between the first and second electrodes is switched.
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~4
Figure 5~6
AI summary
A method of switching an electrically actuated variable transmission layer is disclosed. The layer is between a first electrode and a second electrode, and when a sufficiently high frequency alternating electric field is applied between the first and second electrodes, a selective region of the layer in between the first and second electrodes is switched. Apparatus for use as a glazing pane having a sheet of glazing material and an electrically actuated variable transmission layer facing the sheet of glazing material is also disclosed. The layer is sandwiched between a first electrode and a second electrode. There is an electric field generator in electrical communication with the electrodes and being configured to produce an alternating electric field of sufficient strength and of a sufficiently high frequency to switch a selected region of the layer in between the first and second electrodes.