Abstract: A modular window for use in a vehicle, such as an airborne vehicle, is provided. The modular window includes a suspended particle device (“SPD”) film, the SPD film making up one of the lenses of the modular The window typically includes an opaque shade movable between an opened and closed position, in spaced apart relation to the reveal mounted SPD lens. The opaque shade can move between an open and closed position with the opaque shade. In an open position, the light passing through the modular window unit is controlled by controlling the opacity of the SPD lens. When the opaque shade is in a closed position, the opaque shade substantially prevents any light from passing through the modular window unit regardless of the opacity of the SPD lens.

Abstract: A modular window for use in a vehicle, such as an airborne vehicle, is provided. The modular window includes a suspended particle device (“SPD”) film, the SPD film making up one of the lenses of the modular The window typically includes an opaque shade movable between an opened and closed position, in spaced apart relation to the reveal mounted SPD lens. The opaque shade can move between an open and closed position with the opaque shade. In an open position, the light passing through the modular window unit is controlled by controlling the opacity of the SPD lens. When the opaque shade is in a closed position, the opaque shade substantially prevents any light from passing through the modular window unit regardless of the opacity of the SPD lens.

Abstract: A novel electrically driven window shade using an electromagnetic clutch and an override mechanism accessible to a passenger in the aircraft interior, whose shade is driven by an electric motor coupled to a drive sprocket through the electromagnetic clutch. The clutch and electric motor are typically wired in series with one another such that when the motor is energized the clutch is engaged, allowing the window shade to move between an opened and closed position. When the electric motor is de-energized, the clutch is disengaged and the novel override device may be used to manually move the shade between a raised or lowered position.

Abstract: A modular window for use in a vehicle, such as an airborne vehicle, is provided. The modular window includes a suspended particle device (“SPD”) film, the SPD film making up one of the lenses of the modular The window typically includes an opaque shade movable between an opened and closed position, in spaced apart relation to the reveal mounted SPD lens. The opaque shade can move between an open and closed position with the opaque shade. In an open position, the light passing through the modular window unit is controlled by controlling the opacity of the SPD lens. When the opaque shade is in a closed position, the opaque shade substantially prevents any light from passing through the modular window unit regardless of the opacity of the SPD lens.

Abstract: Applicant discloses a modular window shade system for an aircraft or other vehicle. The window shade of the window is enclosed with an outer and inner lens and mounted to a frame. A handle is provided and a mechanism is provided where in moving a handle horizontally mounted to the frame will cause the shade to move vertically. The mechanism between the handle and the shade provides a mechanical advantage such that the handle moves a distance greater then the vertical travel of the shade.