The present invention provides improved electrochromic layers, which comprise polymeric matrices with electrochromic solutions interspersed therein. Varying an electrical potential difference across a layer of the invention results in reversible variation in the transmittance of light across the layer because of electrochemical processes in the electrochromic solution of the layer. The invention further provides electrochromic devices, in which the electrochromic layers of the invention provide reversibly variable transmittance to light, and various apparatus in which the devices of the invention provide light-filtering or light-color modulation. Such apparatus include windows, including those for use inside and on the outside walls of buildings and in sunroofs for automobiles, and variable reflectance mirrors, especially rearview mirrors for automobiles.

Electrochromic layer and devices comprising same

A method is provided for decreasing radiative heat transfer and adjustably limiting visible light and near infrared radiation transfer and glare through a window. The method comprises the steps of: (a) mounting within a frame of the window a plurality of spaced window panes, a first and second of the panes having opposing faces; (b) assembling between the opposing faces a conductive polymer cell, the cell having a first wall composed of a transparent conductive layer affixed to the first pane and having deposited thereupon an electroactive electro-optically responsive conductive polymer, and a second wall comprised of a transparent conductive layer coated on the second pane, the layer being optionally coated with a second electro-optically responsive polymer, the first and second walls delimiting a cavity containing an ion-conducting electrolyte which contacts opposing surfaces of the first and second walls, and (c) applying a potential between the first and second walls to provide a selected light transmittance upon passage of current therebetween.

Adjustable tint window with electrochromic conductive polymer

A light transmitting system for a vehicle includes a window or mirror with variable transmittance. A first input device, which may comprise a user adjustable device or an ambient light sensor, provides a comfort setting. A second input device, which overrides the first, may be operated manually, or by the vehicle engaging reverse gear or switching on headlights, to increase or decrease the reflectivity and transmittance of mirror and window embodiments respectively. Where a mirror is used, a third input device, which may comprise a photosensor, may be actuated to provide lower reflectivity when experiencing glare.

Mirror system with remotely actuated continuously variable reflectant mirrors

Infra-red reflecting electrochromic light controlling panel comprising, successively in laminated structure, first transparent plate, a transparent electroconductive film, an interlayer of polymer electrolyte, first tungsten oxide film, an infra-red reflecting and electroconductive metal film, second tungsten oxide film and second transparent plate. The first tungsten oxide film is colored when it is applied to negative voltage. The panel can be used as an infra-red reflecting window which regulates the transmission of visible light and solar energy by applying electric field to the first tungsten oxide film.

Electrochromic light controlling panel

An electro-optical device containing an electrochromic material layer and electrolytic solution interposed between mutually opposed base plates, each having an electrode on the surface thereof, wherein said electrolytic solution consists essentially of (a) an iodide source material as a redox reaction promoter selected from the group consisting of metal iodides and ammonium iodides, and (b) a lactone solvent capable of dissolving the redox reaction promoter, with the proviso that when the iodide ion source material is not also a metal cation source, a cation source material capable of generating H+ or Li+ is further added.

Electro-optic device

An electro-optical device is provided which is useful in control of visible and infrared absorption by windows, data display devices and the like typically comprising in sandwich arrangement a pair of electrodes, and disposed therebetween, two identical layers of transition metal electrochromic compounds separated by a semi-solid highly conductive sulfuric acid gel electrolyte. The gel exhibits good conductivity, stability and compatibility with the electrochromic layers.

Thomas A. Augurt

Papers

High conductivity electrolyte gel materials