The state-of-the-art of swithcable clazing and related electronic products

摘要

Large-area switchable glazing and flat panel displays are vry attriactive for a variety of reasons. Large Flat panels and glazing are being developed by a large number of companies and university groups. Ideally the concept of switchable glazing for a building or a vehicle application is very attractive. Switchable glazings offer a completely new way of visualizing the function of a window. Switchable glazing can have a range of adjustable absorption properties and shading coefficients. In this study the technologies covered are electrochromism, suspended partices, encapsulated liquid crystals and technologies being developed for electronic paper and certain flat display panels. Beyond glazing applications, products based on this technology are flexible displays, electronci paper, switchable modulators, mirrors, and eyeglasses. For electronic applications the properties of switchable media range from high viewing angle and unique transmission propertis for displays. Many government programs have granted millions of dollars to push this technology forward for glazing and display application. Much of this technology has been slow to develop and in many cases its complexity and fabrication have been major issues. This study covers developments from seyeral companines including the Pilkington/Flabeg and Asahi/Nippon Oil one square meter electrochromic glazings. Key patents and deposition techniques to fabricate devices will be covered. Open issues and developing technology will be covered in the context of future commercialization.