Switchable Window Segmentation via Touch Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current switchable window technologies with multiple segments lack a straightforward solution for intuitive and efficient control, limiting their application in architecture and automotive sectors where selective light regulation is desired based on ambient conditions and sun angles.
Innovation Solution
A switchable device with a stack of layers including substrate layers, a switching layer, and alternating conductive and isolating sections in the conductive layers, allowing for touch-controlled light transmission regulation, enabling easy operation and manufacturing, and providing a wide range of adjustable transmission states from dark to clear.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If windows have a large number of switchable segments to enable selective light regulation, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases and straightforward control solutions are not available
Solution Approach 1:
The conductive layer is divided into multiple isolated conductive sections separated by isolating sections. Each conductive section can be independently controlled to switch specific segments of the window, enabling selective light regulation without requiring a complex centralized control system. This segmentation allows local control while maintaining overall system simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a spatial dimension to control by arranging conductive sections in a grid pattern across the window surface. Each section corresponds to a specific spatial region, allowing users to control different parts of the window independently. This spatial organization simplifies the control architecture by mapping control elements directly to their functional locations.
2Reliability
If switchable devices are made robust and outdoor stable with sealings and frames, then reliability is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The window is divided into modular segments separated by isolating sections in the conductive layer. Each segment can be independently manufactured and tested before assembly, allowing for standardized production processes. The modular design simplifies quality control and makes it easier to replace individual segments if needed, improving reliability without significantly complicating manufacturing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses thin film structures for the conductive layers and switching materials, which can be deposited directly onto the window substrates. This thin-film approach allows for integration of the switching functionality within the window structure itself, reducing the need for separate robust housings and simplifying the overall manufacturing process while maintaining outdoor stability.
3Ease of operation
If touch motions are used to control switching state, then ease of operation is improved, but additional control components are required
Solution Approach 1:
The window surface itself serves as the control interface through touch-sensitive conductive sections. Users can directly interact with the window by touching or gesturing on the glass surface to control which segments switch. This eliminates the need for separate control panels, buttons, or complex interface devices, as the window provides its own intuitive control mechanism integrated into its structure.
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 solution enables robust, cost-effective, and outdoor-stable devices with intuitive touch-motion control, allowing for selective switching of segments, enhancing light regulation capabilities and adaptability to varying conditions.
Implementation Method 1
the switching layer comprises a material which changes its light transmissivity upon the application of voltage
Implementation Method 2
at least one of the first and the second conductive layers comprises a plurality of isolating sections and a plurality of conductive sections, where the isolating sections and the conductive sections alternate over the area of the conductive layer
Data Source
AI summary
The present application discloses a switchable device, comprising a switching layer and a first conductive layer and a second conductive layer, where the switching layer is positioned between the first and the second conductive layer, and where at least one of the first and the second conductive layers comprises a plurality of isolating sections and a plurality of conductive sections, where the isolating sections and the conductive sections alternate over the area of the conductive layer, and where the switching state of the switchable device is controlled by touch motions.