Transparent Window Antennas for Electrochromic Tint Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electrochromic devices in windows lack integrated antenna systems for efficient communication and control, limiting their functionality in building management and user-specific settings.
Innovation Solution
The integration of window antennas with electrochromic devices, including fractal and dipole antenna configurations, along with a network of controllers to manage optical transitions and wireless communication, enables advanced control and personalization of window tint and communication settings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If electrochromic devices are implemented as thin layers covering window surfaces, then the device thickness and material usage are reduced, but integrated antenna systems for communication and control cannot be incorporated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the electrochromic device layers with antenna structures and ground planes into a single integrated window assembly. The antenna elements are formed using the same transparent conductor layers that serve the electrochromic function, merging communication capabilities with the existing thin-film device structure without adding separate thick components.
Solution Approach 2:
The transparent conductor layers in the electrochromic device serve multiple functions: they provide electrical connectivity for the electrochromic operation, act as antenna elements for wireless communication, and function as ground planes. This multi-functionality allows the thin device structure to simultaneously achieve both electrochromic control and communication capabilities.
2Adaptability or versatility
If antenna structures are added to electrochromic windows, then communication and control capabilities are enhanced, but the device structure and manufacturing complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The antenna structures are integrated into the existing electrochromic device manufacturing process by forming antenna elements and ground planes using the same transparent conductor deposition techniques already used for the electrochromic electrodes. This merging approach allows single-step fabrication rather than requiring separate antenna manufacturing and assembly processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent modifies the geometric parameters of the transparent conductor layers to create functional antenna elements with specific patterns, traces, and ground plane configurations. By changing the layout and dimensions of existing conductor layers rather than adding new materials, the antenna structures are manufactured using standard electrochromic device fabrication processes.
3Reliability
If ground planes are disposed on multiple surfaces or connected structures, then antenna performance is improved, but the window assembly complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extends the ground plane configuration from a single-surface layout to multi-surface and three-dimensional arrangements by disposing ground planes on different window lite surfaces and connected structures. This dimensional expansion improves antenna radiation patterns and performance while maintaining integration with the window assembly architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The ground plane is divided into multiple segments disposed on different surfaces and structures, with each segment contributing to the overall antenna system performance. This segmentation allows the ground plane to be distributed across available surfaces rather than requiring a single large continuous plane, simplifying the assembly of large or complex window configurations.
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 solution allows for efficient control of window tint and communication settings, enhancing energy management and user experience by integrating antenna systems with electrochromic devices, enabling advanced communication and control capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
Electrochromism is a phenomenon in which a material exhibits a reversible electrochemically-mediated change in one or more optical properties when stimulated to a different electronic state
Implementation Method 2
an antenna structure disposed on the first surface or a second surface of the window
Data Source
AI summary
In one aspect, an apparatus is described that includes a transparent pane having a first surface and a second surface. An electrochromic device (ECD) is arranged over the second surface that includes a first conductive layer adjacent the second surface, a second conductive layer, and an electrochromic layer between the first and the second conductive layers. The apparatus further includes at least one conductive antenna structure arranged over the second surface.