Electrochromic Patents (Class 359/265)
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Patent number: 8254013Abstract: A controller or control method may be designed or configured to operate without information about the current temperature of the device and/or the device's environment. Further, in some cases, the controller or control method is designed or configured to control transition of an optical device to an intermediated state between two end states. For example, the controller may be configured to control a transition to a state of transmissivity that is intermediate between two end states of transmissivity. In such case, the device has three or more stable states of transmissivity.Type: GrantFiled: March 16, 2011Date of Patent: August 28, 2012Assignee: Soladigm, Inc.Inventors: Disha Mehtani, Gordon Jack, Anshu Pradhan
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Publication number: 20120212792Abstract: A display panel that includes a first electro-wetting member having a first colored liquid of a first color and a second electro-wetting member having a second colored liquid of a second color is presented. The second electro-wetting member is disposed on the first electro-wetting member such that the first colored liquid overlaps the second colored liquid. The shapes of the liquid of the first color and the liquid of the second color are independently controllable. A method of manufacturing such display panel is also presented.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 18, 2011Publication date: August 23, 2012Inventor: Candice Hellen Brown Elliott
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Patent number: 8248681Abstract: The present disclosure relates generally to polyaniline (PANI) materials capable of undergoing stable and reversible polyelectrochromic transitions between multiple oxidation states. More specifically, the embodiments described herein include novel PANI-PAAMPSA structures that are capable of undergoing stable and reversible transitions between the ES, LB and PB oxidation states. In some embodiments, the structures described are capable of undergoing stable transitions over a broad pH range. Also described herein are methods of preparing certain electrochromic structures.Type: GrantFiled: January 4, 2011Date of Patent: August 21, 2012Assignee: The Trustees of Princeton UniversityInventors: Yueh-Lin Loo, Joung Eun Yoo, Jacob Tarver
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Patent number: 8248680Abstract: A cover for use in connection with a mirror of a vehicle is provided. The cover is provided with a lens having an electrically activatable material. The lens is positioned in front of the vehicle mirror. The electrically activatable material prevents the reflectivity of visible light off the mirror of the vehicle when the electrically activatable material is set to a light inhibiting state. A coupling device electrically couples the electrically activatable material to an electrical power source. An actuation device is adapted to set the electrically activatable material of the lens to the light inhibiting state in response to user operation such that the lens prevents the reflectivity of visible light off the mirror to reduce the observability of the vehicle mirror.Type: GrantFiled: July 31, 2009Date of Patent: August 21, 2012Assignee: Control Solutions LLCInventors: Alyn Brown, James Wiff
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Publication number: 20120206789Abstract: A coated article includes an electrochromic layer made of tungsten trioxide doped with metal selected from molybdenum, niobium, and/or titanium. A method for making the device housing is also described there.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 22, 2011Publication date: August 16, 2012Applicants: HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD., HONG FU JIN PRECISION INDUSTRY (ShenZhen) CO., LTD.Inventors: HSIN-PEI CHANG, WEN-RONG CHEN, HUANN-WU CHIANG, CHENG-SHI CHEN, JIA HUANG
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Patent number: 8243357Abstract: Prior electrochromic devices frequently suffer from high levels of defectivity. The defects may be manifest as pin holes or spots where the electrochromic transition is impaired. This is unacceptable for many applications such as electrochromic architectural glass. Improved electrochromic devices with low defectivity can be fabricated by depositing certain layered components of the electrochromic device in a single integrated deposition system. While these layers are being deposited and/or treated on a substrate, for example a glass window, the substrate never leaves a controlled ambient environment, for example a low pressure controlled atmosphere having very low levels of particles. These layers may be deposited using physical vapor deposition.Type: GrantFiled: May 11, 2011Date of Patent: August 14, 2012Assignee: Soladigm, Inc.Inventors: Mark Kozlowski, Eric Kurman, Zhongchun Wang, Mike Scobey, Jeremy Dixon, Anshu Pradhan, Robert Rozbicki
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Publication number: 20120200908Abstract: A multi-layer device comprising a first substrate and a first electrically conductive layer on a surface thereof, the first electrically conductive layer having a sheet resistance to the flow of electrical current through the first electrically conductive layer that varies as a function of position.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 9, 2012Publication date: August 9, 2012Inventors: Howard S. Bergh, John Bass, Jonathan Ziebarth, Nicolas Timmerman, Zachariah Hogan, Karin Yaccato, Howard Turner
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Patent number: 8230649Abstract: A construction panel includes a pane, a construction substrate, and a frame that form an air gap there between. An electrical generator, a water circulator, and an air venting system are in the air gap. First and second reflective coatings are respectively on first surfaces of the pane and the construction substrate. The first surfaces face the air gap. The reflective coatings reflect IR to heat water in the water circulator and heat air in the air gap. First and second antireflective coatings are respectively on a second surface of the pane and on the first reflective coating. The second surface faces away from the air gap. The antireflective coatings transmit electromagnetic radiation to the electrical generator for electricity generation. The heated water, heated air, and electricity may be used in a building to which the construction panel is attached. The solar-construction panel includes a multiple-pane window integrally formed therein.Type: GrantFiled: March 10, 2010Date of Patent: July 31, 2012Assignee: SolarPath, Inc.Inventor: Narinder Singh Kapany
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Patent number: 8232958Abstract: A method and device for providing a display having increased viewability are provided. The display assembly includes a backlight layer, an electrochromic layer formed over the backlight layer, a surface layer formed over the electrochromic layer and including at least one substantially translucent graphical element thereon, and a power supply. The electrochromic layer is switchable between a substantially transparent state and a substantially reflective state upon application of a switching voltage from the power supply, where the state being selected is based on a lighting condition of the display assembly.Type: GrantFiled: March 5, 2008Date of Patent: July 31, 2012Assignee: Sony Mobile Communications ABInventor: William H. Tolbert
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Patent number: 8228590Abstract: An electro-optic system is provided that includes a front element having first and second surfaces, a rear element including third and fourth surfaces, wherein the front and rear elements are sealably bonded together in a spaced-apart relationship to define a chamber, and an electro-optic medium contained in the chamber, and the electro-optic medium is adapted to be in at least a high transmittance state and a low transmittance state.Type: GrantFiled: August 9, 2010Date of Patent: July 24, 2012Assignee: Gentex CorporationInventors: Kelvin L. Baumann, John A. VanderPloeg, David A. Theiste, Thomas F. Guarr, Henry W. Luten, George A. Neuman
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Patent number: 8228588Abstract: An interior rearview mirror information display system for a vehicle includes an interior rearview mirror assembly including an electrochromic reflective element. A display device is disposed behind a transflective mirror reflector of the reflective element and includes a display screen backlit by a plurality of light emitting diodes supported by a circuit board disposed rearward of the fourth surface of the rear substrate. The light emitting diodes of the circuit board are disposed to the rear of the display screen to provide backlighting of the display screen when activated. Information displayed by the display device is viewable by a driver of the equipped vehicle. When the plurality of light emitting diodes is activated and the display device is displaying information, light emitted by the plurality of light emitting diodes passes through the display screen and through the transflective mirror reflector for viewing by the driver of the equipped vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: December 10, 2010Date of Patent: July 24, 2012Assignee: Donnelly CorporationInventors: Ian A. McCabe, Hamid Habibi, Desaraju V. Varaprasad, Niall R. Lynam
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Patent number: 8228587Abstract: An electrochromic device includes a first electrochromic region interconnected with a second electrochromic region by a plurality of conductive links disposed between sides of a substrate on which the material layers of the electrochromic device are formed. The plurality of conductive links interconnects a first isolated conductive region of the first electrochromic region with a first isolated conductive region of the second electrochromic region. A sequence of a counter electrode layer, an ion conductor layer and an electrochromic layer is sandwiched between the first conductive regions of the first and second electrochromic regions and respective second isolated conductive regions of the first and second electrochromic regions. The second conductive regions of the first and second electrochromic regions are connected to respective first and second bus bars which are for connection to a low voltage electrical source.Type: GrantFiled: April 22, 2010Date of Patent: July 24, 2012Assignee: SAGE Electrochromics, Inc.Inventor: Mark Samuel Burdis
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Publication number: 20120182592Abstract: The present invention relates to electrochromic devices and methods for functionalizing cellulose-based materials, in production and post-production stages, in order to obtain solid-state electrochromic devices. The invention is in the field of electrochemistry. These functionalized cellulose-based materials have typical electrochromic characteristics, specifically the capacity to change the oxidation state, leading to a modification of the physical properties, shown by a color change when exposed to an electric potential difference, being this color change reversible. The color remains in the absence of any electric stimulus, demonstrating a memory effect.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 16, 2010Publication date: July 19, 2012Inventors: Isabel María Mercês Ferrèira, Cláudia Brito Da Costa, Elvira María Correla Fortunato, Rodrigo Ferrão de Paiva Martins, Inês Domingues da Silva Henríques
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Publication number: 20120182141Abstract: An interior rearview mirror system of a vehicle includes an interior rearview mirror assembly having an electro-optic reflective element. The reflective element includes (i) an electro-optic active region where an electro-optic medium is disposed and is bounded by a perimeter seal and (ii) a user input region outboard of the electro-optic active region. At least one backlit user input, such as a capacitive touch sensor, is disposed at the reflective element at the user input region and outboard of the perimeter seal and the electro-optic medium. A control is operable to determine a location of a touch or proximity of a finger of a user that is at or near the first surface of the front substrate at the user input region, and the control generates an output signal indicative of a determined touch or proximity of a finger of a user.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 26, 2012Publication date: July 19, 2012Applicant: Magna Mirrors of America, Inc.Inventors: Kenneth C. Peterson, Keith D. Foote, Richard R. Hook, Eric S. Deuel, Niall R. Lynam
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Publication number: 20120176658Abstract: An electrochromic device according to example embodiments may include a first electrode and a second electrode facing each other, an electrochromic layer positioned between the first electrode and second electrode and including an electrochromic material, and an electrolyte contacting the electrochromic layer between the first electrode and second electrode and including an electron accepting molecule.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 23, 2011Publication date: July 12, 2012Applicant: SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.Inventors: Rupasree Ragini Das, Seog Jin Jeon, Chang Ho Noh, Jae Eun Jang
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Publication number: 20120176660Abstract: An electrochromic device is provided. The electrochromic device includes a first substrate, an electrochromic layer, an electrode, an electrolyte layer and a second substrate. The electrochromic layer is formed on the first substrate, the electrode is disposed on the electrochromic layer, and the electrolyte layer is disposed between the electrode and the second substrate.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 9, 2012Publication date: July 12, 2012Applicant: NATIONAL CHENG KUNG UNIVERSITYInventors: Jen-Sue Chen, Wei-Ting Wu, Jih-Jen Wu, Kun-Keng Chiang
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Patent number: 8218224Abstract: A method of manufacturing electrically tintable window glass with a variety of sizes and functionalities is described. The method comprises: (a) providing a large format glass substrate; (b) fabricating a plurality of electrically tintable thin film devices on the large format glass substrate; (c) cutting the large format glass substrate into a plurality of electrically tintable pieces, each electrically tintable piece including one of the plurality of electrically tintable thin film devices; (d) providing a plurality of window glass pieces; (e) matching each one of the plurality of electrically tintable pieces with a corresponding one of the plurality of window glass pieces; and (f) laminating each of the matched electrically tintable pieces and window glass pieces. The lamination may result in the electrically tintable device either being sandwiched between the glass substrate and the window glass piece or on the surface of the laminated pieces. The electrically tintable device is an electrochromic device.Type: GrantFiled: May 3, 2010Date of Patent: July 10, 2012Assignee: Applied Materials, Inc.Inventors: Byung-Sung Leo Kwak, Dieter Haas, Stefan Bangert, Nety M. Krishna, Winfried Hoffmann
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Patent number: 8218225Abstract: An electrolyte for electrochromic devices is manufactured by mixing (210) a solvent, an ionisable substance and a solvated polymer. The solvent comprises a substance having an amide group and selected from a specified group of substances. The ionisable substance comprises an anion and a cation, where the cation preferably is selected among the alkaline ions. The anion is selected from simple anions, such as hydroxide ions, halide ions or more or less complex organic anions. The polymer is solvated in the mixture of the two other components.Type: GrantFiled: April 24, 2009Date of Patent: July 10, 2012Assignee: ChromoGenics ABInventors: Peter Georen, Roser Marsal Berenguel
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Patent number: 8218223Abstract: A method is disclosed for controlling switching of an electrochromic device comprising at least the following components: a first and a second electrode layer, a first and a second layer in which ions can be reversibly intercalated, and a transparent ion-conducting layer. At least one of the layers in which ions may be reversibly inserted is electrochromic. The optical properties of the device are modified when a potential is applied between the electrode layers. The potential applied is limited such that the maximum generated potential difference never exceeds the safe redox limits, and that the current does not exceed some predetermined limit. Switching of electrochromic devices in this manner allows for maximum device lifetime, while simultaneously optimising switching speed and transmission homogeneity. The method is characterised in that the potential applied to the electrode layers is varied in the form of a stepped ramp, during which time the current is measured constantly.Type: GrantFiled: August 20, 2009Date of Patent: July 10, 2012Assignee: Econtrol—Glas GmbH & Co. KGInventor: Jeremy Matthews
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Patent number: 8213074Abstract: Onboard EC window controllers are described. The controllers are configured in close proximity to the EC window, for example, within the IGU. The controller may be part of a window assembly, which includes an IGU having one or more EC panes, and thus does not have to be matched with the EC window, and installed, in the field. The window controllers described herein have a number of advantages because they are matched to the IGU containing one or more EC devices and their proximity to the EC panes of the window overcomes a number of problems associated with conventional controller configurations.Type: GrantFiled: March 16, 2011Date of Patent: July 3, 2012Assignee: Soladigm, Inc.Inventors: Dhairya Shrivastava, Anshu Pradhan, Stephen C. Brown, David Walter Groechel
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Publication number: 20120152273Abstract: A cosmetic device for applying to human keratinous materials, the device including an electrochromic multilayer structure having an electro sensitive stack formed by at least: first and second electrode layers; first and second active electrochromic layers; and an electrolyte layer; and further including: an optically-active layer that is superposed, at least in part, on the electrosensitive stack.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 2, 2010Publication date: June 21, 2012Applicant: L'OREALInventors: Guillaume Kergosien, Ludovic Thevenet
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Publication number: 20120154891Abstract: A 3D image display device includes a display module, an electrochromic module, a control unit and a sensing unit. The electrochromic module has a first electrochromic element and a second electrochromic element disposed in the different direction, and the electrochromic element is a solution type electrochromic material, and the valence of ions in the material is changed to produce a quick and uniform coloration. The display device transmits a detect signal of the sensing unit to the control unit, and the control unit controls the coloration/decoloration of the first and second electrochromic elements to switch the horizontal or vertical parallax barrier, such that viewers can view a 3D image from different viewing angles and directions.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 18, 2011Publication date: June 21, 2012Applicant: J TOUCH CORPORATIONInventors: YU-CHOU YEH, CHAO-YI WANG, WEN-CHIH LO, CHI-HSIEN SUNG, TSUNG-HER YEH
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Publication number: 20120154890Abstract: Disclosed is ink for an electrochromic device including an electrochromic material, a metal salt, and a solvent. Disclosed also is an electrochromic device that includes a first electrode and a second electrode facing each other, an auxiliary electrode disposed on the first electrode or the second electrode, an electrochromic layer applied on the auxiliary electrode, and an electrolyte interposed between the first electrode and second electrode, wherein the electrochromic layer is formed using ink including an electrochromic material and a metal salt. Disclosed also is a method of manufacturing the electrochromic device.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 27, 2011Publication date: June 21, 2012Applicant: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.Inventors: Seog Jin Jeon, Rupasree Ragini Das, Seon-Jeong Lim, Chang Ho Noh
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Publication number: 20120147447Abstract: Disclosed is an electrochromic device that includes a first electrode and a second electrode facing each other, an electrochromic layer between the first electrode and the second electrode, and an electrolyte between the first electrode and the second electrode and being in contact with the electrochromic layer. The electrochromic layer may include a plurality of oxide semiconductor particles, a metal oxide on the surface of the oxide semiconductor particles, and an electrochromic material. An energy bandgap of the oxide semiconductor particles is in a range of about 3 eV to about 5 eV and an energy bandgap of the metal oxide is in a range of about 3 eV to about 5 eV, and a difference of conduction band energy levels of the oxide semiconductor particles and the metal oxide is about 0.5 eV or less. A method of manufacturing the electrochromic device may also be provided.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 1, 2011Publication date: June 14, 2012Applicant: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.Inventors: Chang Ho Noh, Seog Jin Jeon, Rupasree Ragini Das, Seon-Jeong Lim
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Publication number: 20120147448Abstract: A method for manufacturing an electrochromic window positions a pattern of conductive lines over a first transparent substrate, a transparent conductive film over the pattern of conductive lines and first transparent substrate, and an electrochromic layer over the transparent conductive film, wherein the transparent conductive layer is a physical barrier separating the electrochromic layer from the pattern of conductive lines. The first transparent substrate may be flexible. The pattern of conductive lines and transparent conductive film may be deposited and processed at a temperature less than 180 degrees C. The pattern of conductive lines may be deposited on the first transparent substrate by printing techniques.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 10, 2010Publication date: June 14, 2012Applicant: APPLIED NANOTECH HOLDINGS, INC,Inventors: Zvi Yaniv, Giuseppe Chidichimo, Bruna Clara De Simone, Daniela Imbardelli
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Patent number: 8200390Abstract: A cover for use in connection with one or more vehicle lights is provided. A lens of the cover contains an electrically activatable material that prevents the transmission of visible light from entering into and reflecting out from one or more of the vehicle lights when the electrically activatable material is set to a light inhibiting state. The cover may be configured to be releasably installed over one or more of the vehicle lights such as military combat vehicle lights. A coupling device electrically couples the electrically activatable material to an electrical power source. An actuator is adapted to set the electrically activatable material of the lens to the light inhibiting state in response to user operation such that the lens prevents the transmission of visible light from entering into and reflecting out from the one or more vehicle lights to reduce the observability of the one or more vehicle lights.Type: GrantFiled: July 30, 2009Date of Patent: June 12, 2012Assignee: Control Solutions LLCInventors: Alyn Brown, James Wiff
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Publication number: 20120140310Abstract: A printable photovoltaic electrochromic device is provided. The device includes a transparent substrate, at least one thin-film solar cell on the transparent substrate, at least one single polarity electrochromic (EC) thin film, wherein the single polarity electrochromic thin film includes a single polarity electrochromic material and a polyelectrolyte. The thin-film solar cell at least includes an anode layer, a cathode layer, and a photoelectric conversion layer between the anode layer and cathode layer, wherein a portion of the anode layer or a portion of the cathode layer is exposed from the thin-film solar cell. The single polarity electrochromic thin film covers and contacts with both the cathode layer and the anode layer.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 10, 2011Publication date: June 7, 2012Applicant: INDUSTRIAL TECHNOLOGY RESEARCH INSTITUTEInventors: Lee-May Huang, Chi-Wei Hu
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Publication number: 20120134004Abstract: An electrochromic layer structure with at least one active layer and at least two electrodes is described. At least one of the electrodes has an electrically conductive network of conductor tracks and the conductor tracks contain nanoparticles. An electrochromic device, a method for production of an electrochromic layer structure and use of an electrochromic layer structure and an electrochromic device are also described.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 8, 2010Publication date: May 31, 2012Inventors: Martin Melcher, Philippe Letocart, Emily Bressand, Jean-Christophe Giron
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Publication number: 20120134003Abstract: In a touch control electrochromic device such as a resistive or capacitive touch panel, the electrochromic device combined with a resistive touch panel includes a resistive touch panel unit having a first transparent conductive substrate and a second conductive substrate; an electrochromic material, which is a pure liquid filled into the resistive touch panel unit; an insulator installed at internal peripheries of the first transparent conductive substrate and the second conductive substrate; and a controller electrically coupled to the resistive touch panel unit for turning on/off an external power source of the electrochromic material by an external touch control signal. The resistive touch panel unit directly drives the coloration/decoloration of the electrochromic material to achieve the effect of a power saving window or smart glass.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 10, 2011Publication date: May 31, 2012Applicant: J TOUCH CORPORATIONInventors: YU-CHOU YEH, CHAO-YI WANG, WEN-CHIH LO, TSUNG-HER YEH
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Patent number: 8188361Abstract: A photovoltaic electrochromic device includes a semi-transparent thin-film solar cell substrate, an electrochromic solution, and a transparent non-conductive substrate, wherein the electrochromic solution is located between the transparent non-conductive substrate and the semi-transparent thin-film solar cell substrate. The semi-transparent thin-film solar cell substrate includes a transparent substrate and a plurality of thin-film solar cells, wherein the anodes and the cathodes of the thin-film solar cells are also used as the anodes and the cathodes of the photovoltaic electrochromic device. Because a driving voltage of the electrochromic solution is low, the thickness of an intrinsic layer in each of the thin-film solar cells can be thinned, which increases the transmittance of the photovoltaic electrochromic device. Besides, the current output of the photovoltaic electrochromic device can be controlled by an additional output switch layout coupled with the thin-film solar cells.Type: GrantFiled: March 19, 2009Date of Patent: May 29, 2012Assignee: Industrial Technology Research InstituteInventor: Lee-May Huang
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Publication number: 20120120476Abstract: A 3D image display device includes a display module, an electrochromic module, a control element and a sensing element. The display module is provided for generating a left-eye image and a right-eye image. The electrochromic module is comprised of a first transparent substrate, a first transparent conductive element, a plurality of first electrochromic elements, an electrolyte layer, a plurality of second electrochromic elements, a second transparent conductive element and a second transparent substrate. The second electrochromic elements are arranged orthogonally with the first electrochromic elements. The control element is provided for switching the voltage of the first and second transparent conductive elements. The sensing element is provided for sensing a rotating direction of the 3D image display device and transmitting a sensing signal to the control element to change the color of the first or second electrochromic element, so as to produce a parallax barrier.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 18, 2011Publication date: May 17, 2012Applicant: J TOUCH CORPORATIONInventors: YU-CHOU YEH, CHAO-YI WANG, WEN-CHIH LO, TSUNG-HER YEH
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Patent number: 8179588Abstract: A switchable mirror element includes a switchable layer having a chromic property enabling the switchable layer to be reversibly changed from a transparent state by hydrogenation and a mirror state by dehydrogenation, and a catalytic layer disposed on the switchable layer and configured to promote hydrogenation or dehydrogenation in the switchable layer. The switchable layer includes an alloy of one or more metals from calcium, strontium, and barium, and magnesium.Type: GrantFiled: August 6, 2009Date of Patent: May 15, 2012Assignee: National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and TechnologyInventors: Yasusei Yamada, Kazuki Yoshimura, Shanhu Bao, Kazuki Tajima, Michiru Sakamoto, Hidetoshi Ueno
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Patent number: 8173936Abstract: A reflective element assembly is associated with at least two functional elements, each functional element including at least one functional element electrical contact. The reflective element assembly has a reflective element and reflective element carrier. A power distributor is disposed between the reflective element and the carrier, and includes an integrated heater and power distribution element, a support member having a reverse face and an obverse face, an array of electrically-conductive tracings, and a plurality of discrete electrical contacts points for electrical coupling of the array with the at least two functional elements. At least one of the plurality of discrete electrical contacts points is adapted for electrical communication with at least one functional element electrical contact point of a first functional element, and at least one functional element electrical contact point of a second functional element. The power distributor has a singular module connection.Type: GrantFiled: December 28, 2010Date of Patent: May 8, 2012Assignee: Magna Mirrors of America, Inc.Inventor: Don S. Rawlings
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Patent number: 8174489Abstract: A method and device for providing a dual-sided display device having increased viewability are provided. A display device includes a dual-sided display assembly and a power supply. The dual-sided display assembly includes a first viewable side and a second viewable side. A first electrochromic layer is formed over the first viewable side and a second electrochromic layer is formed over the second viewable side. Each of the first electrochromic layer and the second electrochromic layer are switchable between a substantially transparent state and a substantially reflective state upon application of a switching voltage from the power supply, the state being selected based on an operational configuration of the display device.Type: GrantFiled: March 5, 2008Date of Patent: May 8, 2012Assignee: Sony Mobile Communications ABInventors: Stefan Sorensson, Ola Thorn
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Patent number: 8168265Abstract: This invention contemplates the use of laser patterning/scribing in electrochromic device manufacture, anywhere during the manufacturing process as deemed appropriate and necessary for electrochromic device manufacturability, yield and functionality, while integrating the laser scribing so as to ensure the active layers of the device are protected to ensure long term reliability. It is envisaged that the laser is used to pattern the component layers of electrochromic devices by directly removing (ablating) the material of the component layers. The invention includes a manufacturing method for an electrochromic device comprising one or more focused laser patterning steps.Type: GrantFiled: June 6, 2008Date of Patent: May 1, 2012Assignee: Applied Materials, Inc.Inventors: Byung Sung Kwak, Nety Krishna
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Patent number: 8169684Abstract: The present invention relates to improved electro-optic rearview mirror elements and assemblies incorporating the same. Area of the effective field of view of the electro-optic mirror element substantially equals to that defined by the outermost perimeter of the element.Type: GrantFiled: July 8, 2010Date of Patent: May 1, 2012Assignee: Gentex CorporationInventors: Mark D. Bugno, William L. Tonar, George A. Neuman, Danny L. Minikey, Jr., John S. Anderson, Mark R. Roth, Nigel T. Lock, Spencer D. Reese
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Publication number: 20120099173Abstract: An optical element such as a reflector defining a differentiable fiducial surface having a first portion, with a flat region, that seamlessly adjoins, along a curved line, a second portion having a two-dimensionally curved region. The quality of optical imaging in the reflector is drastically improved by reducing the ratio of optical powers measured in two perpendicular directions along the two-dimensionally curved portion of the surface. The vehicular rearview assembly including such a reflector possesses a field-of-view (FOV) that is significantly higher than the FOV of a conventional flat mirror and facilitates visual access to a “blind spot” behind the vehicle.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 22, 2011Publication date: April 26, 2012Applicant: GENTEX CORPORATIONInventors: Nathaniel J. Gentry, Robert E. Roush, JR.
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Patent number: 8157238Abstract: The present invention discloses a stay device for a vehicle comprising a mount having a ball formed protrudely on a front surface thereof and a wire passage formed therein and extended into the ball; a body coupled to the mount through the ball of the mount, the body having a wire passage formed therein; a plate spring provided for pressurizing the body; a body cover for wrapping the body and the plate spring; and a pivot ball assembly having a ball protrudely formed on a rear surface thereof, the pivot ball assembly being coupled to the body.Type: GrantFiled: May 21, 2010Date of Patent: April 17, 2012Assignee: SMR Patents S.a.r.l.Inventor: Kyung Jun Lee
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Patent number: 8154788Abstract: An energy efficient, thermochromic device that may be used to allow sunlight or solar radiation into a building or structure when sunlight is absent or at high sun angles and substantially blocks solar radiation when sunlight is directly on the window.Type: GrantFiled: October 18, 2010Date of Patent: April 10, 2012Assignee: Pleotint, L.L.C.Inventors: Frederick A. Millett, Michael D. Broekhuis, Jr., Harlan J. Byker, Paul H. Ogburn, Jr.
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Patent number: 8153305Abstract: The invention relates to a solid electrolyte, to a process for its manufacture and also to devices comprising it. The electrolyte of the invention is an amorphous solid of formula SivOwCxHyLiz, in which v, w, x, y and z are atomic percentages with 0?v?40, 5?w?50, x>12, 10?y?40, 1?z?70, and 95%?v+w+x+y+z?100%. The electrolyte of the invention finds application in the field of electronics and microbatteries in particular.Type: GrantFiled: May 7, 2008Date of Patent: April 10, 2012Assignees: Commissariat a l'Energie Atomique, St Microelectronics SAInventors: Steve Martin, Raphaël Salot, Pascal Faucherand, Sami Oukassi, Lucie Jodin
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Patent number: 8154787Abstract: Green electrochromic (EC) materials based on thiophene, and a green EC material based on pyrazine are disclosed. A first thiophene derivative (2,3-Di-thiophen-2-yl-thieno[3,4-b]pyrazine), which was previously investigated as a nonlinear optical material, is here disclosed for its use as an EC material and for its incorporation into an EC device. Synthesis of two new thiophene derivatives (2,5-di(thien-2-yl)-3,4-di(2,2,2-trifluoro-ethoxy)-thiophene and 2,5-(2,3-dihydro-thieno[3,4-b][1,4]dioxin-5-yl)-3,4-di(2,2,2-trifluoro-ethoxy)-thiophene), and a new pyrazine derivative (2,3-dibenzyl-5,7-di(thien-2-yl) thieno[3,4-b]pyrazine) are also disclosed, since these materials are all able to selectively change state to appear a green color and can be polymerized to achieve a green EC polymer.Type: GrantFiled: August 27, 2010Date of Patent: April 10, 2012Assignee: University of WashingtonInventors: Lu Liu, Chunye Xu, Minoru Taya
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Publication number: 20120081773Abstract: In an electrochromic module and a stereo image display device having the electrochromic module, the electrochromic module includes a first substrate, a second substrate, at least one electrochromic layer and at least one ion layer. The first substrate upper surface includes at least one first electrically conductive element disposed between the first substrate and the second substrate. The ion layer is formed on a surface of the electrochromic layer and prepared by mixing and dissolving at least one organic material and at least one inorganic material in a solvent. The ion layer not only serves as an ion provider, but also acts as an electrochromic material of an accessory color change layer for improving the difference of the optical transmittance. By the shifting and transmission of electrons between the organic and inorganic materials, the electrochromic module has the advantages of fast and uniform color change and smaller driving voltage.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 15, 2010Publication date: April 5, 2012Applicant: J TOUCH CORPORATIONInventors: YU-CHOU YEH, CHAO-YI WANG, WEN-CHIH LO, CHI-HSIEN SUNG, TSUNG-HER YEH
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Publication number: 20120081774Abstract: The presently disclosed subject matter can include or consist of the creation and manufacture of electrochromic thin film transistors, either self-sustaining or not, with lateral or vertical structure, deposited on any kind of functionalized substrate, referred to as electrochromic substrate, or non-functionalized substrate. The electrolyte material and the presence or not of an ultra-thin membrane can act as dielectric element. The electrochromic material can act as active semiconductor of the channel region. The gate, source and drain electrodes can be based on metal materials, such as Titanium, Gold, Aluminium, or degenerate semiconductive oxides, like Indium and Zinc oxide, Gallium-doped Zinc oxide. The device operation control process can be made by means of electronic and ionic current, and the off-state to on-state switch, or vice-versa, can be followed by a change of colour of the device.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 8, 2009Publication date: April 5, 2012Inventors: Rodrigo Ferrão De Paiva Martins, Elvira Maria Correia Fortunato
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Patent number: 8149495Abstract: A reflective display, comprising a plurality of pixels (10), each having a first electrode, a light-modifying layer (12), and a second electrode (3; 16) arranged to enable formation of an electric field in the light-modifying layer (12) through application of a voltage between the electrodes. The pixel (10) further includes an active portion (16) which is switchable between light-modifying states by means of said electric field, and an inactive portion (17). The inactive portion (17) is arranged for reflecting light so as to direct at least a fraction of incoming light (20) impinging on the inactive portion (17) towards the active portion (16). As a result, a contrast ratio of the reflective display is improved, since light is now directed from the inactive portion towards the active portion and thus contributes to the displayed image as observed by a viewer.Type: GrantFiled: December 11, 2006Date of Patent: April 3, 2012Assignee: Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V.Inventors: Sander Jurgen Roosendaal, Martinus Hermanus Wilhelmus Maria Van Delden
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Patent number: 8144383Abstract: A chromatic element includes a sealed enclosure, an isolation layer, a first heating element, a chromatic material layer and a second heating element. The isolation layer is disposed in the sealed enclosure and separates the sealed enclosure into a first chamber and a second chamber. The first heating element is configured to heat the first chamber. The second heating element is configured to heat the second chamber. The chromatic material layer is disposed in one of the first chamber and the second chamber. The chromatic material layer transfers from the first chamber to the second chamber in a gaseous state.Type: GrantFiled: June 24, 2010Date of Patent: March 27, 2012Assignees: Tsinghua University, Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.Inventors: Peng Liu, Duan-Liang Zhou, Shou-Shan Fan
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Publication number: 20120069418Abstract: The service life of EC components can be substantially increased by eliminating the need for conducting salt additives, which can decompose the formulation by adverse reactions. At the same time, salt-like structures are formed by the active electrochromic components themselves.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 20, 2010Publication date: March 22, 2012Inventors: Andreas Kanitz, Marek Maleika, Wolfgang Roth
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Publication number: 20120069419Abstract: Formulations can be used in organically based electrochromic components, such as for the production of state indicators, the activated state of which is maintained for as long as possible without an electric current. Organically based electrochromic formulations contain one or more optionally cathodically (coloring) activatable electrochromic coloring systems, as well as an anodically activatable antagonist formed of an amine which dimerizes to a hydrazinium salt by releasing an electron. Titanium dioxide is introduced as an image background (maximum opacity), and additionally a dispersant is introduced which can be crosslinked or partly crosslinked.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 6, 2010Publication date: March 22, 2012Inventors: Andreas Kanitz, Marek Maleika, Wolfgang Roth
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Publication number: 20120062975Abstract: A controller or control method may be designed or configured to operate without information about the current temperature of the device and/or the device's environment. Further, in some cases, the controller or control method is designed or configured to control transition of an optical device to an intermediated state between two end states. For example, the controller may be configured to control a transition to a state of transmissivity that is intermediate between two end states of transmissivity. In such case, the device has three or more stable states of transmissivity.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 16, 2011Publication date: March 15, 2012Applicant: Soladigm, Inc.Inventors: Disha Mehtani, Gordon Jack, Anshu Pradhan
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Publication number: 20120044561Abstract: In an electrochromic module combined with organic and inorganic materials and a display device combined with the module, the display device has the electrochromic module installed on a surface of an image display module, and the electrochromic module comprises a first transparent substrate, a second transparent substrate, and a transparent conductive element and an electrochromic layer disposed between the substrates, and the electrochromic layer is made of mixing an organic material and an inorganic material into a solvent. With the transfer of electrons between the organic and inorganic materials, the valence of ions of the materials is changed. By gaining electrons for a reduction, and losing electrons for an oxidation, a color change is achieved, and the invention has the advantages of high speed, uniformity, and a low driving voltage.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 3, 2011Publication date: February 23, 2012Applicant: J TOUCH CORPORATIONInventors: YU-CHOU YEH, CHAO-YI WANG, WEN-CHIH LO, TSUNG-HER YEH
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Patent number: 8120245Abstract: A dual electrochromic/electroluminescent (EC/EL) device of at least one pixel includes an interdigitated electrode where an electroactive layer is dispersed on and between the digits of the two electrodes of the interdigitated electrode. The electroactive layer is in contact with an electrolyte layer that also contacts a third electrode. The device acts as an electroluminescence device when an electrical bias between the two electrodes of the interdigitated electrode is established. The device acts as an electrochromic device when the electrical bias is established between the combined electrodes of the interdigitated electrode and the third electrode.Type: GrantFiled: April 15, 2009Date of Patent: February 21, 2012Assignee: University of Florida Research Foundation, Inc.Inventors: John R. Reynolds, Aubrey Lynn Dyer