U.S. patent application number 10/974240 was filed with the patent office on 2005-09-15 for dimming control system for an array of electrochromic devices.
This patent application is currently assigned to The Boeing Company. Invention is credited to Callahan, Kevin S., Schafer, Roland L. JR..
Application Number | 20050200934 10/974240 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 34923455 |
Filed Date | 2005-09-15 |
United States Patent
Application |
20050200934 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Callahan, Kevin S. ; et
al. |
September 15, 2005 |
Dimming control system for an array of electrochromic devices
Abstract
Electrochromic device control systems and methods are disclosed.
In one embodiment, a window system includes a plurality of
transparent windows, a plurality of electrochromic devices, a
plurality of control modules, and a main controller. Each
transparent window has an electrochromic device operatively
associated therewith. A control module is operatively coupled to
each electrochromic device and is adapted to controllably adjust an
electric field to activate and de-activate the electrochromic
device. Finally, the main controller is operatively coupled to the
plurality of control modules and adapted to simultaneously adjust
the electric fields of the plurality of electrochromic devices to
activate and de-activate the plurality of electrochromic devices in
unison. In one particular embodiment, a window dimming control
system in accordance with the present invention may advantageously
be incorporated into an existing cabin services system of a
passenger aircraft.
Inventors: |
Callahan, Kevin S.;
(Shoreline, WA) ; Schafer, Roland L. JR.; (Auburn,
WA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
BLACK LOWE & GRAHAM PLLC
701 FIFTH AVENUE, SUITE 4800
SEATTLE
WA
98104
US
|
Assignee: |
The Boeing Company
|
Family ID: |
34923455 |
Appl. No.: |
10/974240 |
Filed: |
October 27, 2004 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
60552453 |
Mar 12, 2004 |
|
|
|
60552589 |
Mar 12, 2004 |
|
|
|
60552606 |
Mar 12, 2004 |
|
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|
Current U.S.
Class: |
359/265 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G02F 2001/164 20190101;
G02F 1/163 20130101; G02F 1/15165 20190101; G02F 1/1506 20130101;
G02F 1/153 20130101; B64C 1/1484 20130101; B64D 2011/0061 20130101;
G02F 1/1525 20130101; G02F 1/1516 20190101; G02F 1/1533
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
359/265 |
International
Class: |
G02F 001/03; G02F
001/07; G02F 001/15 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. An electrochromic system, comprising: a plurality of
electrochromic devices; a plurality of control modules, each
control module being operatively coupled to at least one
electrochromic device and adapted to controllably adjust an
electric field to activate and de-activate the device; and at least
one main controller operatively coupled to the devices and adapted
to simultaneously adjust the electric fields of a selected set of
the devices to activate and de-activate the set.
2. The electrochromic system of claim 1, wherein at least one
electrochromic device is disposed adjacent to a transparent
window.
3. The electrochromic system of claim 1, wherein at least one
electrochromic device is integrally formed with the transparent
window.
4. The electrochromic system of claim 1, wherein at least one
electrochromic device includes: a first transparent electrode; a
second transparent electrode operatively positioned with and spaced
apart from the first transparent electrode; an electrochromic layer
disposed between the first and second transparent electrodes; and
an electrolyte layer disposed between the first and second
transparent electrodes and adjacent the electrochromic layer.
5. The electrochromic system of claim 1, further comprising a power
source operatively coupled to at least one of the main controller,
the plurality of control modules, and the plurality of
electrochromic devices.
6. The electrochromic system of claim 1, wherein the plurality of
electrochromic devices includes at least one polychromatic
electrochromic device.
7. A window system, comprising: a main controller operatively
coupled to first and second zones, respectively, wherein the first
zone includes: a first plurality of window assemblies, each window
assembly having an operative electrochromic device; at least one
control module operatively coupled to at least one electrochromic
device and adapted to controllably adjust an electric field to
control the device; and wherein the second zone includes: a second
plurality of window assemblies, each window assembly having an
operative electrochromic device; at least one control module
operatively coupled to at least one electrochromic device and
adapted to controllably adjust an electric field to control the
device; and wherein the main controller is adapted to adjust the
electric fields of the plurality of electrochromic devices of the
first and second zones to provide zonal control of the
electrochromic devices.
8. The window system of claim 7, wherein at least one
electrochromic device is integrally formed with the window
assembly.
9. The window system of claim 7, wherein at least one
electrochromic device includes: a first transparent electrode; a
second transparent electrode operatively positioned with and spaced
apart from the first transparent electrode; an electrochromic layer
disposed between the first and second transparent electrodes; and
an electrolyte layer disposed between the first and second
transparent electrodes and adjacent the electrochromic layer.
10. The window system of claim 7, further comprising a power source
operatively coupled to at least one of the main controller, the
first zone, and the second zone.
11. The window system of claim 7, wherein at least one zone further
comprises a plurality of overhead electronic units coupled between
the zone switch and at least one control module.
12. The window system of claim 11, further comprising at least one
light operatively coupled to each overhead electronic unit.
13. The window system of claim 11, wherein the first plurality of
window assemblies are arranged in a first area of an aircraft
passenger cabin, and wherein the second plurality of window
assemblies are arranged in a second area of an aircraft passenger
cabin.
14. A structure, comprising: a plurality of windows, a window
control assembly operatively associated with the windows, the
window control assembly including: a plurality of electrochromic
devices, each electrochromic device being operatively associated
with a respective window; a plurality of control modules, each
control module being operatively coupled to at least one
electrochromic device and adapted to controllably adjust an
electric field to activate and de-activate the device; and a main
controller operatively coupled to the devices and adapted to adjust
the electric fields of the devices to activate and de-activate the
devices in a selected manner.
15. The structure of claim 14, wherein each electrochromic device
operatively forms a shade for a window.
16. The structure of claim 15, wherein each control module is
positioned to be accessible to a seated user.
17. The structure of claim 14, wherein the main controller is
spaced apart from the control modules
18. An aircraft, comprising: a fuselage operatively coupled to an
airframe; a plurality of window assemblies formed within at least
one of the fuselage and the airframe; and a services system
disposed within the fuselage, the services system including: a
plurality of lighting assemblies; a plurality of control modules,
each control module being operatively coupled to at least one of
the lighting assemblies; a window control system including a
plurality of electrically operated shades, each shade being
operatively associated with a respective one of the window
assemblies and operatively coupled to at least one control module,
wherein the control module is adapted to controllably activate and
de-activate the shade; and a main controller operatively coupled to
the shades and adapted to adjust the shades to activate and
de-activate the plurality of shades in a selected manner.
19. The aircraft of claim 18, wherein each shade is operatively
disposed adjacent to a window assembly.
20. The aircraft of claim 18, wherein each shade is a component of
a window assembly.
21. The aircraft of claim 18, wherein at least one of the
electrically operated shades includes: a first transparent
electrode; a second transparent electrode operatively positioned
with and spaced apart from the first transparent electrode; an
electrochromic layer disposed between the first and second
transparent electrodes; and an electrolyte layer disposed between
the first and second transparent electrodes and adjacent the
electrochromic layer.
22. A method of controlling light through a plurality of windows,
comprising: providing at least one electrochromic device
operatively associated with each window; providing a plurality of
control modules, each control module being operatively coupled to
at least one electrochromic device and adapted to controllably
activate and de-activate at least one device; providing a main
controller operatively coupled to the devices and adapted to
control the devices in a selected manner. adjusting a
characteristic color of at least some of the devices.
23. The method of claim 22, wherein adjusting the characteristic
color of at least some of the devices includes adjusting the
devices using the main controller.
24. The method of claim 23, wherein adjusting the devices using the
main controller includes overriding a control signal from at least
one control module.
25. The method of claim 22, wherein the devices function as a shade
for a window.
26. The method of claim 22, wherein the control modules are
arranged in rows and are associated with aircraft seats to be
accessible to seated passengers.
27. The method of claim 22, wherein the main controller is
accessible to an aircraft passenger attendant.
28. An electrochromic system, comprising: an electrochromic device;
a control module operatively coupled to the electrochromic device
and adapted to controllably activate and de-activate the
electrochromic device; and a main controller operatively coupled to
the device and adapted to override the control module to
controllably activate and de-activate the device.
29. The system of claim 27, further comprising a window member
operatively associated with the electrochromic device.
30. A method of adjusting a lighting level in a passenger cabin of
a vehicle, comprising: providing an electrochromic device
operatively associated with a window of the vehicle; providing a
control module operatively coupled to the electrochromic device and
adapted to controllably activate and de-activate the electrochromic
device; providing a main controller operatively coupled to at least
one of the control module and the electrochromic device; adjusting
a characteristic of the electrochromic device by controllably
adjusting the control module; and adjusting the characteristic of
the electrochromic device by overriding the control module using
the main controller.
31. The method of claim 29, wherein the electrochromic device
operates as a shade for the window.
32. The method of claim 29, wherein adjusting a characteristic of
the electrochromic device includes adjusting opacity.
33. The method of claim 29, wherein adjusting a characteristic of
the electrochromic device includes adjusting an electric field
coupled to the device.
34. A system for controlling the environment in a passenger cabin
of a vehicle, comprising: at least one individual environment
control located near a seat in the cabin; a crew-control override
arranged to override the control; and; a processor arranged to
automatically override the control in response to a selected
flight/trip condition.
35. The system of claim 34, wherein the control operates a shade
for a window.
36. The system of claim 34, wherein the control operates an
electrochromic device.
37. An aircraft passenger cabin, comprising: at least one window;
at least one shade arranged to operatively shade the window; at
least one seat control arranged to operate the shade; at least one
override, arranged to allow a crew member to override the seat
control; and at least one processor arranged to automatically set
the shade based upon a flight/trip condition.
38. The system of claim 37, wherein the shade includes an
electrochromic device.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This patent application is related to U.S. Patent
Application No. (undetermined) entitled "Low Vapor Pressure Solvent
for Electrochromic Devices," filed under Attorney Docket No.
BING-1-1086 concurrently herewith on Oct. 27, 2004; to U.S. Patent
Application No. (undetermined) entitled "Multi-Color Electrochromic
Device," filed under Attorney Docket No. BING-1-1085 concurrently
herewith on Oct. 27, 2004; and to U.S. Pat. No. 6,747,780 entitled
"Electrochromic Organic Polymer Syntheses and Devices Utilizing
Electrochromic Organic Polymers", Xu et al., issued Jun. 8, 2004;
which applications are hereby incorporated by reference.
PRIORITY CLAIM
[0002] This non-provisional patent application claims priority from
U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/552,453, filed on Mar. 12,
2004; from U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/552,589, filed on
Mar. 12, 2004; and from U.S. Provisional Application No.
60/552,606, filed on Mar. 12, 2004, which provisional applications
are incorporated herein by reference.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0003] The present disclosure relates to apparatus and methods for
electrochromic devices, and more specifically, to apparatus and
methods for dimming or otherwise controlling arrays of
electrochromic devices.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0004] Electrochromic devices are often used as windows, shades,
dividers, mirrors, or electronic displays, that change color or
degree of opacity in respect to an applied electric field or
current. Such an electrochromic device typically is a multi-layer
assembly. Outer layers of the electrochromic device typically are
electrodes that are optically clear [i.e. substantially transparent
to light in wavelengths of the visual spectrum or at other desired
wavelengths, albeit in some instances bearing a limited tint or
color]. At least one electrochromic layer is sandwiched between the
electrodes. This layer is able to change color or opacity in
response to changes in the applied electric field or current to
create visual effects. The electrochromic layer is often an organic
polymer film or an inorganic thin film of an electrochromic
material. When the voltage is applied across the outer conductors,
ions in an electrolyte typically move to the electrochromic layer
causing the electrochromic material to change color states.
Reversing the voltage moves ions away from the electrochromic
layer, restoring the device to its previous state.
[0005] An electrolyte is often utilized in an electrochromic device
to act as a reservoir for the ions that activate the electrochromic
layer and/or provide a medium for transporting ions between a
separate ion reservoir material or counter-electrode and the
electrochromic layer. A salt such as lithium perchlorate
(LiClO.sub.4) or trifluorosulfonimide (LiN(CF.sub.3SO.sub.2).sub.2)
may be utilized to provide the ions to activate and deactivate the
electrochromic layer. The salt is typically dissociated in a
solvent in the electrolyte, freeing the ions for use in activating
the electrochromic layer.
[0006] Gel electrolytes in electrochromic devices are often
preferred because they are less likely to leak than liquids and
more stable dimensionally. One gel electrolyte usable in a
preferred electrochromic device includes a solid polymer matrix,
especially of polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA).
[0007] While pull down shades of aircraft windows in passenger
cabins appear simple, the mechanisms for integrating them into the
aircraft are complex, and the labor to install or repair them are
high relative to alternatives that are emerging. Electrochromic
(EC) devices that darken upon switching a controlling electrical
power signal provide promise for lower initials and lifecycle
costs.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0008] The present invention provides systems and methods for EC
array control systems, including control systems for dimming or
otherwise controlling windows for commercial passenger aircraft. In
one embodiment, a window system includes a plurality of transparent
windows, a plurality of electrochromic devices, a plurality of
control modules, and a main controller. Each transparent window has
an electrochromic device operatively associated therewith. A
control module is operatively coupled to each electrochromic device
and is adapted to controllably adjust an electric field to activate
and de-activate the electrochromic device. Finally, the main
controller is operatively coupled to the plurality of control
modules and adapted to simultaneously adjust the electric fields of
the plurality of electrochromic devices to activate and de-activate
the plurality of electrochromic devices in unison. In one
particular embodiment, a window dimming control system in
accordance with the present invention may advantageously be
incorporated into an existing cabin services system of a passenger
aircraft.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0009] Preferred and alternate embodiments of the present invention
are described in detail below with reference to the following
drawings.
[0010] FIG. 1 is an exploded isometric view of an aircraft window
incorporating an electrochromic device.
[0011] FIG. 2A is a perspective view of an aircraft interior
incorporating a multi-color electrochromic device (shown in an
inactivated transparent state) as a compartment divider.
[0012] FIG. 2B is a perspective view of an aircraft interior
incorporating a multi-color electrochromic device exhibiting a logo
(shown in an activated colored state).
[0013] FIG. 3A is an exemplary electrochromic device incorporating
an exemplary .gamma.-butyrolactone (gamma-butyrolactone or GBL)
electrolyte in a deactivated state.
[0014] FIG. 3B is an exemplary electrochromic device including an
exemplary GBL electrolyte in an activated state.
[0015] FIG. 4A is an enlargement of an exemplary interface between
an electrochromic layer and an exemplary GBL electrolyte, with the
electrochromic layer in a deactivated state.
[0016] FIG. 4B is an enlargement of an exemplary interface between
an electrochromic layer and an exemplary GBL electrolyte, with the
electrochromic layer in an activated state.
[0017] FIG. 5 is a chart of ionic conductivity of exemplary gel
electrolytes over time.
[0018] FIG. 6 is a cross-section of an exemplary electrochromic
aircraft window incorporating an exemplary GBL electrolyte.
[0019] FIG. 7 is a plan view of an exemplary multi-color
electrochromic panel exhibiting a pattern.
[0020] FIG. 7A is an enlarged view of a section of the
electrochromic panel of FIG. 7 showing exemplary interspersed
pixels of a multi-color electrochromic layer.
[0021] FIG. 8 is a cross-section of an exemplary multi-color
electrochromic device.
[0022] FIG. 9 is a cross-section of deposition of a multi-color
electrochromic layer on a substrate.
[0023] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of an aircraft interior
incorporating a multi-color electrochromic device exhibiting a
pattern (shown in an activated colored state).
[0024] FIG. 11 is a schematic view of a window dimming system.
[0025] FIG. 12 is a schematic view of an alternate window dimming
system.
[0026] FIG. 13 is a side elevational view of an aircraft in
accordance with an alternate embodiment of the present
invention.
[0027] FIG. 14 shows a top elevational view of a representative
passenger aircraft floor plan incorporating an embodiment of the
present invention.
[0028] FIG. 15A shows an end cross-sectional view of a passenger
aircraft section incorporating an embodiment of the present
invention.
[0029] FIG. 15B shows an end cross-sectional view of an alternate
passenger aircraft section similar to FIG. 15B.
[0030] FIG. 16 is a front elevational view of a window assembly
incorporating an electrochromic device.
[0031] FIG. 17 is an exploded isometric view of the window assembly
of FIG. 16.
[0032] FIG. 18 is a partial cross-sectional view of the window
assembly FIG. 16.
[0033] FIG. 19 is an exploded isometric view of another window
assembly that includes an electrochromic device.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0034] The present invention relates to electrochromic devices.
Many specific details of certain embodiments of the invention are
set forth in the following description and in FIGS. 1-19 to provide
a thorough understanding of such embodiments. One skilled in the
art, however, will understand that the present invention may have
additional embodiments, and that the present invention may be
practiced without several of the details described in the following
description.
[0035] Embodiments of the present invention may include a
.gamma.-butyrolactone (gamma-butyrolactone or GBL) bearing
electrolyte for electrochromic panels. In one embodiment, a GBL
electrolyte exhibits high ionic conductivity, high transmittance of
light, and stability over time and temperature. These features are
useful, for example, in aircraft applications such as
electrochromic shades for aircraft windows, replacing hand pulled
window shades.
[0036] This application incorporates by this reference Xu et al.,
Electrochromic Organic Polymer Synthesis and Devices using
Electrochromic Organic Polymers, U.S. Pat. No. 6,747,780 B2, issued
Jun. 8, 2004; Xu, C., Liu, L., Legniski, S., Le Guilly, M., Taya,
M., Weidner, A., Enhanced Smart Window Based on Electrochromic
Polymers, Smart Structures and Materials 2003: Electroactive
Polymer Actuators and Devices (EAPAD), edited by Bar-Cohen, Y.,
Proceedings of the SPIE, Volume 5051, pp. 404-411 (July, 2003)
(hereinafter "Reference A"); Xu, C., Liu, L., Legniski, S., Le
Guilly, M., Taya, M, Gel Electrolyte Candidates for Electrochromic
Devices (ECD), Smart Structures and Materials 2004, Electroactive
Polymer Actuators and Devices (EAPAD), edited by Bar-Cohen, Y.,
Proceedings of the SPIE, Volume 5385, pp. 319-325 (July, 2004)
(hereinafter "Reference B"); and Liu, L., Xu, C., Legniski, S.,
Ning, D., M., Taya, M, Design of Smart Window based on
Electrochromic Polymers: New Derivatives of
3,4-alkylenedioxythiophene, Electroactive Polymer Actuators and
Devices (EAPAD), edited by Bar-Cohen, Y., Proceedings of the SPIE,
Volume 5385, pp. 454-460 (July, 2004) (hereinafter "Reference
C").
[0037] FIG. 1 is an exploded view of an exemplary electrochromic
device used as an aircraft window shade 5 in accordance with an
embodiment of the present invention. A structural window 40 is
installed in an aircraft fuselage wall 60 with a seal 30. Inboard
of the structural window 40 is a safety backup pane 20. An
electrochromic shade 10 is held in place between the safety pane 20
and an aircraft interior window molding 50 surrounding the window
on the interior of the aircraft. When the electrochromic shade 10
is activated, it changes color and/or opacity states, typically
either dimming or brightening the aircraft interior by controlling
entry of light from outside the aircraft.
[0038] Turning to FIG. 2A, a multi-color electrochromic panel 210
in accordance with an embodiment of the invention is shown
positioned as a part of a cabin compartment divider 220 in the
interior 200 of a passenger aircraft. In FIG. 2A, the panel 210 is
shown in the non-activated state, where it is substantially
transparent, permitting viewing through the panel 210. The
multi-color electrochromic panel 210 is held by, and forms a part
of, the passenger compartment divider 220 that divides different
segments of the passenger compartment from each other. When the
electrochromic display 210 is substantially transparent as shown in
FIG. 2A, viewing is permitted through the divider 220. In vehicular
applications, for example, viewing through the divider 220 may be
desirable for loading and unloading purposes, regulatory, or safety
reasons.
[0039] In some embodiments, a control panel may be programmed to
change the opacity of the electrochromic display 210 to change the
environment based upon time of day, the status of the flight
(take-off, landing, etc.), or other criteria. Alternately, the
electrochromic display 210 may be programmed to change state when a
sufficient amount brightness level is sensed within the cabin. An
exemplary display 210 in a vehicle or any other environment may
thus change with time, at certain times, or during certain events.
The display 210 may thus adjust the natural lighting in the
interior 200 of the aircraft, or any other vehicle or architectural
environment. The display 210 may also be used in a combination with
a window, in addition to forming a divider 220.
[0040] FIG. 2B shows a passenger aircraft cabin interior 300
similar to that in FIG. 8A. An embodiment of a multi-color
electrochromic panel 310 is installed in the cabin interior 300 as
a part of a cabin compartment divider 320. In FIG. 2B, the panel
310 is shown in the activated state exhibiting a multi-color logo
330. In an activated state, the panel 310 displays the logo 330,
and passengers cannot see through the panel 310, visually dividing
the passenger compartments. In a non-activated state, the
multi-color logo 330 disappears and the panel 310 is transparent,
in the manner shown in FIG. 2A.
[0041] FIG. 3A shows an exemplary electrochromic device 405 in
cross-section in accordance with an embodiment of the invention in
a deactivated state 461. The device 405 includes a first
transparent electrode 410 and a second transparent electrode 440.
Disposed between the first electrode 410 and the second electrode
440, and adjacent to the first electrode 410 is an electrochromic
layer 420. The electrochromic layer 420 in this example changes
color or darkens when it is in a reduced state. By way of example,
but not limitation, the electrochromic layers may include a polymer
film such as poly[3,3-dimethyl-3,4-dihydro-2-
H-thieno[3,4-b][1,4]dioxepine] (PProDOT-(CH.sub.3).sub.2).
[0042] As further shown in FIG. 3A, positioned between the
electrochromic layer 420 and the second electrode 440 is an
electrolyte layer 430 including an embodiment of a
.gamma.-butyrolactone (gamma-butyrolactone or GBL) gel electrolyte
(GBL electrolyte) 431. The GBL electrolyte 431 may include GBL and
a salt that when dissociated activates the electrochromic layer 420
with the application of an electric field. GBL
(C.sub.4H.sub.6O.sub.2) is an essentially colorless cyclic ester
with a comparatively low vapor pressure capable of performing as a
solvent for the salt. Depending upon the desired application, other
known electrolytes suitably may be included in the electrolyte
layer 430.
[0043] An electric field (not shown) is applied to the
electrochromic layer 420 and the GBL electrolyte 431 to activate
and deactivate the electrochromic layer 420. In this embodiment,
the electric field is provided by an electrical power source 460
connected to the first electrode 410 and the second electrode 440.
The first electrode 410 and the second electrode 440 may suitably
include glass, acrylic or polycarbonate coated with Indium Tin
Oxide (ITO) to form transparent sheet electrodes. Other transparent
materials, other electrode materials, and other configurations
including small scale printed circuitry grids may suitably be
substituted for ITO coated transparent electrodes. In FIG. 3A, the
first electrode 410 is connected to the positive pole of the
voltage source 460 and the second electrode 440 is connected to the
negative pole of the electrical source 460. As further described
with reference to FIGS. 4A and 4B, in this configuration, with a
positive charge applied to the first electrode 410, the
electrochromic layer 420 becomes deactivated and substantially
transparent. The first electrode 410, the second electrode 440, and
the GBL electrolyte 431 are also substantially transparent, and
thus the electrochromic device 405 in this state as a whole is
substantially transparent.
[0044] The term transparent or colorless should not be limited to
mean perfectly transparent (i.e. 100% transmissive) or perfectly
colorless, but rather, should be read to include conditions of
partial or imperfect transmissivity or substantial translucence.
The terms transparent or colorless include being substantially
optically clear and transmissive in the visual color frequencies of
light, like ordinary glass, or having the property of transmitting
visual light (or other desired frequencies, as desired) so that
objects lying beyond are visible.
[0045] In FIG. 3B, the electrochromic device 405 of FIG. 3A is
connected to a reversed electrical source 462. The negative pole of
the reversed electrical source 462 is connected to the first
electrode 410, and the positive pole of the reverse electrical
source 462 is connected to the second electrode 40. In this
configuration, the electrochromic layer 420 changes to an activated
state 463, substantially darkens, and thus is no longer
substantially transparent. As described with reference to FIGS. 4A
and 4B, the reversed electric field (not shown) provided by the
reversed electrical source 462 draws positive ions (not shown) from
the GBL electrolyte 431 into interaction with the electrochromic
layer 420, thereby activating the electrochromic layer 420. In many
electrochromic devices, it is not necessary to maintain the
electric field or the reversed electric field to maintain the color
or transparency of the device, only to change the color state or
transparency.
[0046] FIGS. 4A and 4B are enlarged symbolic diagrams of an
exemplary interface 400 such as in FIGS. 3A and 3B, between an
electrochromic layer 420 and a GBL-bearing gel electrolyte 431 (GBL
electrolyte), with the electrochromic layer 420 in a one of its
operative states 461 in FIG. 4A, and in a second operative state
463 in FIG. 4B. In this embodiment, the GBL electrolyte 431
includes a lithium perchlorate salt that dissociates in the GBL
bearing electrolyte 430 into perchlorate ions 433 and lithium ions
435. The GBL acts as a solvent dissociating the lithium perchlorate
salt into its component ions. As shown in FIG. 4A, while not
intending to be bound by theory, in the presence of an electric
field, with a positive pole 465 adjacent to and outside of the
electrochromic layer 420 side of the interface 400, and a negative
pole 467 adjacent to and outside of the GBL electrolyte 431 side of
the interface 400, the perchlorate ions 433 in the GBL electrolyte
431 are drawn toward the electrochromic layer 420. This permits the
electrochromic layer 420 to gain or maintain an oxidized state, and
thus gain or maintain a substantially transparent or non-activated
state. Alternately, the lithium ions 435 in the GBL electrolyte 431
are drawn away from the electrochromic layer 420 (towards the
negative pole 467), and thus do not activate the electrochromic
layer 420.
[0047] In FIG. 4B, the electric field is reversed from that in FIG.
2A. The negative pole 467 is adjacent to and outside of the
electrochromic layer 420, and the positive pole 465 is adjacent to
and outside of the GBL electrolyte 431. In this configuration, and
again while not intending to be bound by theory, the interface 400
has lithium ions 435 drawn toward the electrochromic layer 420, or
towards the negative pole 467 of the electric field, activating the
electrochromic layer 420, changing its color state, in this
instance substantially darkening it. An electrochromic layer 420
that is activated (in this example in a reduced state) when it
forms or is adjacent a cathode or the negative pole of an electric
field is a cathodic electrochromic layer. Electrochromic layers may
also be anodic, and thus are activated when they form or are
adjacent the anode or positive pole of an applied electric field. A
GBL electrolyte 431 of the present invention may be used with both
cathodic and anodic electrochromic layers.
[0048] A GBL electrolyte 431 advantageously dissociates and carries
the lithium ions 435 and the perchlorate ions 433 while having a
comparatively low vapor pressure, and comparatively low toxicity
and low flammability as compared to other electrolytes. The GBL in
a GBL electrolyte 431 acts as a solvent, disassociating the lithium
perchlorate, triflourosulfonimide, another suitable salt, or
mixtures thereof to allow ions to activate the electrochromic
layer. A gelled GBL electrolyte 431 includes an effective amount of
polymethylmethacrylate or other suitable colorless gelling agent.
The GBL may also be mixed with one or more additional solvents such
as ethylene carbonate, propylene carbonate, other higher molecular
weight cyclic esters, or other suitable compounds that are
essentially colorless, comparatively non-toxic, and have
comparatively low volatility.
[0049] By way of example, but not limitation, propylene carbonate
as a second solvent may suitably be mixed with GBL in a GBL-bearing
electrolyte 130. In another embodiment, a suitable GBL-bearing
electrolyte 130 includes approximately 70% by weight GBL, 20% by
weight propylene carbonate, 3% by weight lithium perchlorate, and
7% by weight polymethylmethacrylate. The weight percentages of the
components of this embodiment can vary and still maintain
functionality. In some embodiments, the propylene carbonate
percentage may be reduced to near 0%, resulting in decreased
volatility, but typically higher cost as GBL typically is more
expensive than propylene carbonate. Alternately, the weight
percentage of propylene carbonate also may be increased to over 20%
maintaining functionality, but increasing volatility. Additional
quantities of lithium perchlorate may provide additional ions
beyond those used in the electrochromic reactions, but typically do
not otherwise affect functionality. Considerably smaller weight
percentages of lithium perchlorate may decrease color changes in
the electrochromic layer. In an alternate embodiment, for example,
lithium perchlorate may be substituted or supplemented with the
salt trifluorosulfonimide at approximately 3% by weight.
[0050] The weight percentage of polymethylmethacrylate may also
vary, affecting the viscosity of the GBL-bearing electrolyte 130,
but not otherwise affecting the functionality of the electrolyte.
Some electrochromic devises use essentially liquid electrolytes
with little gelling material or polymethylmethacrylate.
Considerably larger quantities of polymethylmethacrylate may cause
cloudiness in the electrochromic device.
[0051] GBL has a vapor pressure of approximately 1.5 mm of Hg at
20.degree. C. Compared to higher vapor pressure solvents such as
acetonitrile (ACN) with a vapor pressure of 72.8 mm of Hg at 20 C,
GBL suitably has lower rates of diffusion and evaporation from
electrochromic devices. GBL suitably exhibits high ionic
conductivity, high transmittance of light, and stability over time
and temperature. The low viscosity of the GBL provides an ionic
environment that facilitates high ionic mobility of the salts
activating and deactivating the electrochromic layer. In an example
embodiment of a GBL bearing electrolyte 130, an electronic grade
GBL is used and the GBL is dried over molecular sieves to remove
any residual water.
[0052] GBL may suitably have a high ionic conductivity, resulting
in a low activation energy facilitating ionic movement. The
activation energy for an exemplary gel electrolyte including GBL,
propylene carbonate, lithium perchlorate, and
polymethylmethacrylate are approximately 9.7 kJ/mol. ACN as an
electrolyte, by way of comparison, has an activation energy of 83
kJ/mol.
[0053] As shown in FIG. 5, an exemplary GBL-bearing electrolyte
over time exhibits a stable comparatively high ionic conductivity.
As shown in FIG. 3, ACN bearing electrolytes exhibit a high initial
conductivity (mS/cm), but their ionic conductivity declines over a
course of 90 days. Exemplary GBL gel electrolytes including lithium
perchlorate exhibit a slightly lower ionic conductivity, but
exhibit stable ionic conductivity over 100 days. Thus, a
GBL-bearing electrolyte 130 of the present invention suitably
provides stable ionic conductivity over time, and thus may increase
the lifetime of an electrochromic device.
[0054] FIG. 6 shows a cross section of an electrochromic device
used as a window or shade 500 installed in an aircraft fuselage
580. The window 500 includes a GBL electrolyte 530 that suitably
provides comparatively low flammability and toxicity for aircraft
or automotive applications. The window 500 is a multi-layer
assembly 505, including a first electrode 510, an electrochromic
layer 520, a GBL electrolyte 530, and a second electrode 540. The
assembly 505 is suitably held in a frame 570, in this example,
adapted to hold the electrochromic window 500 in the wall of an
aircraft fuselage 580. A GBL electrolyte 530 bearing electrochromic
window 500 suitably provides ionic conductivity and stability,
while complying with appropriate safety limitations for an aircraft
application. The GBL electrolyte 530 suitably permits the salt ions
535 within the GBL electrolyte 530 to activate and deactivate
electrochromic layer 520 in an aircraft environment through
multiple cycles. Structural window layers may be added to the
window 500, leaving the window 500 to serve as a shade.
[0055] Electrochromic devices of the present invention may also
include multi-color electrochromic panels, i.e., polychromatic,
having at least two pigments of electrochromic materials. For
example, FIG. 7 shows an exemplary multi-color electrochromic panel
605 in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. The
panel 605 includes three color zones, a first color zone 610, a
second color zone 620, and a third color zone 630 arranged in the
panel 605 in a design or pattern 607. Alternate color panels 605
suitably may have only one color zone, or a greater number of color
zones. The pattern 607 in this embodiment is a colored wave pattern
adapted to match or complement other designs, architectural
features, patterns or colors in an area (not shown) where the panel
605 is installed, such as described further with reference to FIG.
10. The electrochromic device 605 is shown with the electrochromic
layer activated to be in an opaque or colored state, as opposed to
a substantially transparent state. In a non-activated state, this
exemplary panel 605 would be substantially transparent, i.e., the
zones 610, 620, and 630 would all be substantially transparent, and
the pattern 607 would not be visible. In some embodiments, the
pattern 607 may still permit an observer to see partially, or
dimly, through the panel 605, even when the panel 605 is in a fully
activated state.
[0056] FIG. 7A shows an enlargement of a typical section of an
electrochromic layer 650 at an interface 625 between the second
color zone 620, and third color zone 630 of the panel 605 of FIG. 7
at a pixel level. The electrochromic layer 650 is divided into a
plurality of pixels 640. In this example, the pixels 640 are a
uniform size and shape, are square and are of a size such that when
viewed from ordinary human viewing distances of approximately two
feet or greater, the pixels 640 blend to form colors. The colors
formed are based upon the respective areal color densities or
percentages of different colors of electrochromic materials in the
pixels 640. In this example, the pixels 640 include varying
densities of three colors of electrochromic material, a first color
electrochromic material 641, a second color electrochromic material
643, and a third color electrochromic material 645. In this
embodiment, the second color zone 620 of the panel 605 of FIG. 7 is
composed of pixels of the third color electrochromic material 645,
while the third color zone 630 is composed of a mixture of pixels
of the first color electrochromic material 641 and the second color
electrochromic material 643. By varying the areal percentage or
density of pixels 640 of color electrochromic materials 641, 643,
and 645, a wide variety and gradations of colors may be generated
from the visual mixing of the pixels 640. When viewed by the human
eye from normal viewing distances, pixels 640 of the first color
electrochromic material 641, the second color electrochromic
material 643, and the third color electrochromic material 645 blend
into a desired configuration of varied and graduated colors.
Suitable pixel sizes for partial wall size multi-color
electrochromic panels 605 include pixels approximately one
millimeter square. In single color areas intended to display an
unmixed color of an electrochromic material, such areas may have
much larger pixels or be aggregated into a single area wide
"pixel."
[0057] By way of example, but not limitation, electrochromic
materials when activated can form various colors that can be mixed
visually in a multi-color electrochromic panel 605 as described
with reference to FIG. 7 and FIG. 7A. For example,
3,3-Dimethyl-3,4-dihydro-2H-thieno [3,4-b][1,4] dioxepine (1) forms
a blue color when activated in a reduced state, and otherwise is
substantially transparent. Similarly, 6,6-dimethyl-6,7-dihydro-2H,
5H-4,8-dioxa-2-aza-azulene (2) in an activated or reduced state
forms a red color and is otherwise substantially transparent. Other
colors of electrochromic materials are available and/or under
development. Red and blue color electrochromic materials may be
combined in various ratios to produce reds, blues, and purples.
Red, blue, and green pixels will be able to be combined to form a
very wide pallet of colors, as may cyan, magenta, and yellow
electrochromic materials.
[0058] Overlapping of colors, either on a substrate or in a
multiple-activated-layer sandwich, may also produce further colors
or variable colors as each or multiple color layers are activated
(see, e.g., Reference C). By way of example, red, purple, blue,
substantially transparent, and black colors suitably may be
displayed by activating one or both of the red and blue
electrochromic materials to varying intensities either together,
separately, or not at all, with a combination of red or blue
electrochromic materials. Alternately, applying a segmented
activating charge to a display 605, thus providing different charge
regimes to differing subsets and combination of pixels 640 or
sections of the display 605, similarly will also produce a variety
of combinations of colors, transparency, and opacity, from the
display 405 at different times.
[0059] FIG. 8 shows a cross-section of an exemplary single
electrochromic layer multi-color electrochromic panel 705. The
panel 705 has a first transparent substrate 710, upon which is
deposited a transparent electrical conductor 720. Deposited on the
transparent electrical conductor 720 is an electrochromic layer 730
including areas of a first color electrochromic material 731, areas
of a second color electrochromic material 733, and areas of a third
color electrochromic material 735. The transparent electrical
conductor 720 permits an electrical charge or field to be applied
to the color electrochromic materials 731, 733, and 735. As
described above, the areas of the first material 731, the second
material 733, and the third material 735 are suitably small enough
that when activated and viewed from normal viewing distance the
colors blend visually to form different areas on the panel 705
where different colors may be displayed. Adjacent to the
electrochromic layer 730 is a gel electrolyte layer 740 that
conducts, and to some degree stores, ions that activate and
deactivate the electrochromic layer 730. In some embodiments of the
present invention, the gel electrolyte includes GBL.
[0060] The example panel 705 may also incorporate an ion storage
layer 750 with a conductor grid 760 that, in some embodiments,
comprises a grid including gold (Au). The ion storage layer 750
suitably attracts and stores the oppositely charged counterparts to
the ions activating and deactivating the electrochromic layer
730.
[0061] In operation, an electrical charge may be provided to the
ion storage layer 750 and the grid 760 by a second transparent
electrical conductor 780 mounted on a second transparent substrate
770.
[0062] In FIG. 9 a colored electrochromic material 811 is deposited
onto a transparent electrical conductor 820 on a transparent
substrate 830, during preparation of an exemplary multi-color
electrochromic layer. Masks 810 and 815 cover separate, selected
portions 812 and 816, respectively of the conductor 820. A third
portion of the conductor 813 is unmasked, permitting a jet 809 of
electrochromic material 808 (e.g. unpolymerized electrochromic
material) to be jetted from a nozzle 807 of a spray device 805. The
first mask 810 and the second mask 815 may subsequently be removed,
and the spray device 805 used to direct a jet of alternate color
electrochromic materials (not shown) onto the transparent
electrical conductor 820 in the previously masked portions 812 and
816 of the conductor 820. Suitable masking materials include, for
example, ablative masking materials such as polyimide.
[0063] In this embodiment, when the jet 809 of electrochromic
material 808 is sprayed toward the unmasked portion 813 of the
transparent electrical conductor 820, the electrochromic materials
808 is electropolymerized by an electrical charge applied to the
conductor 820. At the time of spraying, the materials 808
polymerize on contact with the charged conductor 820. Alternately,
for example, a separate screen mask may be used in lieu of ablative
or removable masking materials 810 and 815. Furthermore, in
alternate embodiments, with a defined delivery quantity and a
shaped jet 808, different areas of the transparent electrical
conductor 820 may be coated with a colored electrochromic material
without utilizing a separate mask.
[0064] FIG. 10 shows an exemplary aircraft interior 900 similar to
that shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B, with a multi-color electrochromic
panel 910 installed in a passenger compartment divider 920. In this
embodiment, the panel 910, when activated (as shown here) displays
a color coordinated interior design or pattern 930 that may be
coordinated with and visually match other portions of the
compartment divider 920, which may have a similar, but
non-electrochromic interior design or pattern 931. When the
electrochromic panel 910 is in a non-activated state the panel 910
is substantially transparent. Multi-color panels 910, such as that
shown in FIG. 10, suitably may have color patterns to match a wide
variety of architectural details, designs, patterns, and colors and
be used in vehicles, buildings, signs, or the like.
[0065] Additional embodiments of the present invention include
systems and methods for controlling arrays of electrochromic
devices. These may include window dimming control systems, such as
for the windows of passenger cabins of large commercial transport
aircraft. In one embodiment, a control system uses existing wiring
to distribute electronic control signals to the windows throughout
the passenger cabin. By doing so, much of the weight and cost of
wiring for the electrochromic devices are avoided.
[0066] FIG. 11 is a schematic view of a window dimming system 1000
in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention. In
this embodiment, the window dimming system 1000 includes at least
one cabin attendant control panel 1002 operatively coupled to a
first zone 1010 and a second zone 1020. Each zone 1010 and 1020
includes a zone control box 1012 and 1022, respectively,
operatively coupled to the cabin attendant control panel 1002 and
to a power source 1030. Also, each of the first and second zones
1010 and 1020 includes a plurality of lighting control modules 1014
and 1024 respectively, which are in turn operatively coupled to a
plurality of passenger control panels 1049. The passenger control
panels 1049 are separately connected to an associated
electrochromic device 1050.
[0067] Although FIG. 11 depicts the cabin attendant control panel
1002 and the passenger control panels 1049 as being coupled to the
electrochromic devices 1050 via conductive members (e.g. wires), in
alternate embodiments, the control panels 1049, 1002 may be
operatively coupled to the electrochromic devices 1050 in a
wireless manner using, for example, radio signals or other
electromagnetic signals. For example, the cabin attendant control
panel 1002 suitably may be incorporated into a portable remote
control unit carried by the attendant. Alternately, multi-way
switching circuits may also be used, allowing a selection of
electrochromic devices 1050 to control.
[0068] In operation, each of the passenger control modules 1049 may
be adjustably controlled (e.g. by a passenger) to vary the color or
opacity of its associated electrochromic device 1050, as described
more fully below. Each zone control box 1012 and 1022 is adapted to
receive control data 1003 from the cabin attendant control panel
1002, and responsible for relaying those control commands to the
appropriate electrochromic device 1050. The passenger control
modules 1049 may be controlled or overridden by the control data
1003 output from the cabin attendant control panel 1002, leaving
the attendants in control of lighting, for example, for safety
reasons.
[0069] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 11, one passenger control
module 1049 is coupled to each electrochromic device 1050. This
arrangement may be suitable, for example, for providing each window
seat on the aircraft with a passenger control module 1049. In
alternate embodiments, however, a plurality of passenger control
modules 1049 may be coupled to each electrochromic device 1050,
such as, for example, the other seats in the same row. In such
alternate embodiments, a hierarchy of control authority may be
established between the plurality of passenger control modules
1049, such as, for example, descending control authority with
increasing distance from the respective window.
[0070] The window dimming control system 1000 advantageously
provides improved control authority over the opacity of the
plurality of electrochromic devices 1050. For example, in one mode
of operation, each passenger within a cabin of the commercial
aircraft may be permitted to control the opacity of his or her
electrochromic device 1050, and thus, the tint, color, or
transparency of his or her window, using the associated passenger
control module 1049. In an alternate mode of operation, however, a
cabin attendant or other authorized person may be permitted to
override the settings of the individual passengers using the cabin
attendant control panel 1002 as necessary (e.g. during an in-flight
movie, during takeoff and landing, etc.) to control the uniformity
of the lighting within the passenger cabin.
[0071] The cabin attendant control panel 1002 may be adapted to
provide control authority over the electrochromic devices 1050 in a
wide variety of ways. For example, the cabin attendant control
panel 1002 may address one, several, all, or any other desired
combination of the electrochromic devices 1050. The control panel
1002 may be programmable or include control options to be selected
for the situation. The cabin attendant control panel may include or
be linked to a computer processor 1007 providing for computerized
or automated control of the electrochromic devices 1050. For
example, in one particular embodiment, the cabin attendant control
panel 1002 through the processor 1007 may be programmed to change
the opacity of all electrochromic devices 1050 to change the
environment based upon time of day, the status of the flight
(take-off, landing, etc.), or other criteria. Alternately, the
control panel 1002 might be programmed to change state
automatically when a sufficient amount of light is sensed within
the cabin. On the other hand, the attendant may utilize the cabin
attendant control panel 1002 to override the passenger control
modules 1049 of a particular passenger (e.g. a particular window
seat) or a selected group of passengers (e.g. a selected group of
window seats) as necessary for a desired lighting condition.
[0072] In one representative embodiment, the window dimming system
1000 is operated by means of the lighting control modules 1014 and
1024 and the cabin attendant control panel 1002 (via the first and
second zone boxes 1012 and 1022) which are adapted to controllably
vary the polarity and strength of electric fields powered by the
power source 1030. By positioning the electrochromic devices 1050
adjacent the windows of the aircraft, the opacity of the
electrochromic devices 1050 may be controllably varied to lighten
or darken the windows of the aircraft.
[0073] The electrochromic device 1050 may assume a wide variety of
embodiments and including those other than described above and
shown in FIGS. 1 and 2A. The invention described above with
reference to FIG. 11 should not be construed to being limited to
any particular electrochromic device 1050, and indeed may be
utilized with any electrically controlled shade. Furthermore, in
alternate embodiments, electrochromic devices in accordance with
the present invention need not be coupled to a surrounding
structure (e.g. the aircraft fuselage 280 in FIG. 1). More
specifically, in alternate embodiments, the electrochromic devices
may be freestanding units.
[0074] In FIG. 12, a window dimming system 1100 includes a cabin
attendant control panel 1102 operatively coupled to a first zone
1110 and a second zone 1120. Each zone includes a zone switch
module 1112, 1122 operatively coupled to the cabin attendant
control panel 1102 and to a power source 1130. In this embodiment,
the zone switch module 1112 controls first and second sub-portions
1111 and 1113 of the first zone 1110, while the zone switch module
1124 controls the entire second zone 1120. Also, each of the first
and second zones 1110 and 1120 includes a plurality of overhead
electronic units 1114 and 1124, respectively, which are, in turn,
each operatively coupled to associated passenger reading lights
1115 and 1125, respectively. The first zone 1110 further includes a
plurality of dimmer controls 1118 operatively coupled to the
overhead electronic units 1114 and to an associated electrochromic
dimmable window 1119. The passenger dimmer controls 1118 are
located conveniently for the passengers on each seat or row of
seats on the armrests, tray tables, seat backs, or interior
panels.
[0075] In operation, each of the dimmable windows 1119 of the first
zone 1110 may be adjustably controlled independently of the other
dimmable windows 1119 using the associated dimmer control 1118.
Alternately, all of the dimmable windows 1119 may be controlled
using the cabin attendant control panel 1102. The cabin attendant
control panel 1102 may have override authority over each of the
individual dimmer controls 1118, and is adapted to simultaneously
adjust the electric fields within the plurality of dimmable windows
1119 of the first and second zones 1110, 1120 to selectively
activate and de-activate the plurality of dimmable windows 1119 of
the first and second zones 1110, 1120 either independently or in
unison (or both).
[0076] The window dimming control system 1100 advantageously
utilizes existing wiring to distribute the desired electronic
control signals to the dimmable windows 1120 throughout the
passenger cabin of the aircraft. In this way, much of the weight
and cost of wiring that would otherwise be dedicated to this task
is reduced or eliminated. In one particular embodiment, for
example, the dimmer controls 1118 and the associated dimmable
windows 1119 are simply incorporated into an existing Cabin
Services System (CSS) that controls other functions within the main
passenger cabin, including, for example, the reading lights
associated with each passenger seat.
[0077] A wide variety of apparatus may be conceived that include
electrochromic device array control systems in accordance with
alternate embodiments of the present invention. For example, FIG.
13 is a side elevational view of an aircraft 1200 having a
plurality of window assemblies 1201 and one or more window dimming
control systems 1202 formed in accordance with alternate
embodiments of the present invention.
[0078] In general, except for the window dimming control systems
1202 formed in accordance with the present invention, the various
components and subsystems of the aircraft 1200 may be of known
construction and, for the sake of brevity, will not be described in
detail. Embodiments of window dimming control systems 1202 in
accordance with the present invention, including but not limited to
those embodiments described above and shown in FIGS. 11-12, may be
employed in any desired location throughout the aircraft 1200.
[0079] More specifically, as shown in FIG. 13, the aircraft 1200
includes one or more propulsion units 1204 coupled to an airframe
(not visible) disposed within a fuselage 1205, wing assemblies 1206
(or other lifting surfaces), a tail assembly 1208, a landing
assembly 1210, a control system (not visible) 1212, and a host of
other systems and subsystems that enable proper operation of the
aircraft 1200. A plurality of window assemblies 1201 are
distributed throughout the fuselage 1205, and a plurality of window
dimming control systems 1202 in accordance with the present
invention are distributed throughout the various portions of the
aircraft 1200, including, for example, within the cockpit (1202a),
the first-class section (1202c), and the coach or business class
section (1202c).
[0080] Although the aircraft 1200 shown in FIG. 11 is generally
representative of a commercial passenger aircraft, including, for
example, the 737, 747, 757, 767, 777, and 7E7 models commercially
available from The Boeing Company of Chicago, Ill., the inventive
apparatus and methods disclosed may also be employed in virtually
any other types of aircraft. More specifically, the teachings of
the present invention may be applied to other types and models of
passenger aircraft, fighter aircraft, cargo aircraft, rotary
aircraft, and any other types of aircraft, including those
described, for example, in The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Military
Aircraft by Enzo Angelucci, published by Book Sales Publishers,
September 2001, and in Jane's All the World's Aircraft published by
Jane's Information Group of Coulsdon, Surrey, United Kingdom, which
texts are incorporated herein by reference. Alternate embodiments
of apparatus and methods in accordance with the present invention
may be used in the other applications, including, for example,
ships, buses, trains, recreational vehicles, subways, monorails,
houses, apartments, office buildings, or any other desired
applications.
[0081] FIG. 14 shows a top elevational view of a representative
passenger aircraft floor plan 1300. The passenger aircraft floor
plan 1300 includes first port and starboard control systems 1310,
1311 covering port and starboard portions of the business section,
a forward economy section control system 1320, and second port and
starboard control systems 1330, 1331 covering the rear economy
section. Each of the window control systems shown in FIG. 14 may
include one or more zones such as described above with reference to
FIGS. 11-12. Clearly, a wide variety of alternate embodiments of
passenger aircraft floor plans 1300 having various configurations
of window control systems in accordance with the present invention
may be conceived.
[0082] In FIG. 15A passenger aircraft section 1400 includes a
window control system 1410 having a first or left zone 1411 and a
second or right zone 1413. A master control module 1412 is
wirelessly coupled to electrochromic devices 1420 of the window
control system 1410. Passenger control modules 1430 are positioned
over the passenger seats 1440. As further shown in FIG. 15B, in
another embodiment, a passenger aircraft section 1450 includes a
control system 1460 adapted to control a freestanding
electrochromic display or partition 1475. A master control module
1462 is located overhead in the aircraft section 1450. One or more
passenger control modules 1480 may be located proximate the seats
1490, including, for example, within the armrests between the
adjacent seats 1490, or on upper and lateral portions of the
aircraft section 1450. Similarly, the master control module 1462
may be disposed in any desired location.
[0083] As shown in FIG. 16 and FIG. 17, an exemplary window
assembly 1500 includes a window member 1510, and an electrochromic
assembly 1550 disposed adjacent the window member 1510. A passenger
control module 1560 is operatively coupled to the electrochromic
assembly 1550. An edge trim 1514 is disposed about an outer
perimeter of the window member 1510. A power source 1562 provides
power to the window assembly 1500. Bus bars 1581 and 1583 around
the perimeter of the electrochromic assembly 1550 provide
electrical connections to the assembly 1550.
[0084] FIG. 18 is a detailed cross sectional view of an outer
perimeter of the electrochromic device 1550 of FIG. 16. The device
1550 includes two outer transparent layers, a first outer layer
1551 and a second outer layer 1553 proximate to each other. The
outer layers 1551 and 1553 by way of example may include glass,
acrylic, or polycarbonate. The outer layers 1551 and 1553 are
coated on their interior surfaces by a first transparent electrode
coating 1577 and a second transparent electrode coating 1579,
respectively. In a central portion 1552 of the first outer layer
1551, an electrochromic layer 1561 is deposited on the first
electrode coating 1577. In a central portion 1552 of the second
outer layer 1553, a counter-electrode grid 1565 is deposited on the
second electrode coating 1579. Between the counter-electrode grid
1565 and the electrochromic layer 1561 is a layer of gel
electrolyte 1563.
[0085] Attached to an edge portion 1554 of the first electrode
coating 1571 is a first busbar 1581. As shown in FIG. 17, the first
busbar 1581 suitably spans the circumference of the first outer
layer 1551, providing an electrical connection to the first
transparent electrode coating 1577. Attached to an edge portion
1554 of the second electrode coating 1579 is a second busbar 1583,
that as shown in FIG. 17 suitably spans the circumference of the
second outer layer 1553, providing an electrical connection to the
second transparent electrode coating 1579. The first busbar 1581
and the second busbar 1583 suitably may be any conductor, including
by way of example copper strips. A space 1585 is maintained between
the first busbar 1581 and the second busbar 1583, so that charges
may be provided to their respective electrode layers 1577 and 1579,
without the first busbar 1581 and second busbar 1583 making contact
with each other. The space 1585 may also hold or be filled with a
dielectric, providing insulation between the busbars 1581 and 1582.
A first adhesive seal 1571 between the first outer layer 1551 and
second outer layer 1553, between their central portions 1552 and
their edge portions 1554, suitably seals and contains the edge of
the electrochromic layer 1561, the electrolyte 1563, and the
counter electrode grid 1565, permitting the device to activate and
deactivate when an electric charge is applied to the device 1550
through a power source (not shown) electrically coupled with the
busbars 1581 and 1583. A second adhesive seal 1573 seals the
outermost edge 1556 of the first outer layer 1551 and second outer
layer 1553, suitably isolating and insulating the busbars 1581 and
1583 from the outside environment. Further, the edge portion 1554
and the outermost edge 1556 of the first outer layer 1551 and the
second outer layer 1553 are surrounded by an edge trim 1587. The
edge trim 1587 in this embodiment is in the form of a clip
assisting in holding together the components of the device 1550,
including the first outer layer 1551 and the second outer layer
1553, with the electrode layers 1577 and 1579, the electrochromic
layer 1561, the electrolyte 1563, the counter electrode grid 1565,
the two busbars 1581 and 1583 in a fixed configuration between
them.
[0086] FIG. 19 is an exploded isometric view of a window assembly
1600 including a first window member 1610 having a transparent
portion 1612 and an edge trim portion 1614. Similarly, an outer
second window member 1620 includes a transparent portion 1622 and a
mounting portion 1624. An electrochromic assembly 1650 is disposed
between the first and second window members 1610, 1620. Passenger
controls 1660 are disposed within the edge trim portion 1614 of the
first window member 1610, in this example the inner window member
for an aircraft, and are operatively coupled to the electrochromic
assembly 1650. The passenger controls 1660, for example, allow the
passenger in the window seat to control the electrochromic assembly
1650 as desired, subject to override signals from a master
controller (not shown) as described with reference to FIGS. 11 and
12.
[0087] While preferred and alternate embodiments of the invention
have been illustrated and described, as noted above, many changes
may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the
invention. Accordingly, the scope of the invention is not limited
by the disclosure of the preferred and alternate embodiments.
Instead, the invention should be determined entirely by reference
to the claims that follow:
* * * * *