JP2024506776A - Insulated glass units, methods of manufacturing such insulated glass units and methods of operating dynamic shades within such insulated glass units, substrates - Google Patents

Abstract

Electropotentially driven shades usable with insulating glass (IG) units, IG units including the shades, and/or related methods. In that unit, a dynamic shade is located between the substrates (102, 104) that define the IG unit and is movable between a retracted position and an extended position. The dynamic shade includes a layer on the glass that includes a transparent conductor and an insulating or dielectric film and a shutter (312). The shutter includes an elastic polymer-based layer and a conductive layer. A first voltage is applied to the transparent conductor to extend the shutter to the closed position, and a second voltage is applied to the stop (504) to electrostatically hold the shutter (312) in the closed position. . The first voltage level and the second voltage level can be reduced when the shutter (312) is extended to the closed position, and the reduction to the first voltage level is the reduction to the second voltage level. larger than

Description

(Related application)
This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. Patent Application No. 16/947,014 filed on July 15, 2020 and U.S. Patent Application No. 16/779,927 filed on February 3, 2020. claims priority to U.S. Patent Application No. 17/138,528, filed December 30, 2020, which are incorporated by reference in their entirety.

(Field of invention)
Certain exemplary embodiments of the invention relate to shades that may be used with insulating glass units (IG units or IGUs), IG units including such shades, and/or methods of manufacturing the same. More specifically, certain exemplary embodiments of the invention relate to potential-driven shades that may be used with IG units, IG units including such shades, and/or methods of manufacturing the same.

Background technology and summary of the invention

The building sector is known for its high energy consumption, which has been shown to represent 30-40% of the world's primary energy consumption. Operating costs such as heating, cooling, ventilation, and lighting account for a large portion of this consumption, especially in older structures built with less stringent energy efficiency building codes.

Windows, for example, provide natural light, fresh air, access, and connection to the outside world. However, they often also represent a significant source of wasted energy. With the growing trend towards increasing the use of architectural windows, balancing the competing interests of energy efficiency and human comfort is becoming increasingly important. Additionally, concerns about global warming and carbon dioxide emissions are driving new energy efficient glazing systems.

In this regard, windows are usually the "weak link" in building isolation, and given modern architectural designs that often include entire glass facades, better insulation is needed in terms of controlling and reducing energy waste. It becomes clear that it would be advantageous to have a window. Therefore, the development of highly insulating windows has significant environmental and economic benefits.

Insulating glass units (IG units or IGUs) have been developed to improve the insulation of buildings and other structures. FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of an exemplary IG unit. In the exemplary IG unit of FIG. 1, first substrate 102 and second substrate 104 are substantially parallel and spaced apart from each other. A spacer system 106 is provided at the periphery of the first substrate 102 and the second substrate 104 to maintain the substrates in a substantially parallel spaced relationship with each other, with a gap or space 108 between the substrates. useful for defining. Gap 108 may optionally be at least partially filled with an inert gas (eg, Ar, Kr, Xe, etc.) to improve the insulation properties of the overall IG unit, for example. In some cases, an optional outer seal may be provided in addition to the spacer system 106.

Windows are an inherent element in most buildings in that they have the ability to "energize" the building in the form of winter solar gain and year-round daylight. However, current window technology often leads to excessive heating costs in the winter, excessive cooling costs in the summer, and in many cases the light is dimmed or It fails to capture the benefit of daylighting in allowing it to be turned off.

Thin film technology is one promising way to improve window performance. Thin films can, for example, be applied directly onto the glass during manufacture and onto polymeric webs which can be retrofitted to already existing windows at correspondingly lower costs. Advances have been made over the past two decades, primarily to lower the U-value of windows by using static or "passive" low-emissivity (low-E) coatings, as well as by using spectrally selective low-E coatings. Advances have been made by reducing the solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC). Low E coatings may be used in conjunction with IG units, such as those shown in and described in connection with FIG. 1, for example. However, further enhancements are possible.

For example, it would be desirable to provide more dynamic IG unit options that take into account the desire to provide improved insulation to buildings etc. It will be appreciated that it is desirable to take advantage of the capabilities and also provide privacy in a more "on-demand" manner. It will be appreciated that it is desirable for such products to also have a pleasing aesthetic appearance.

Certain example embodiments address these and/or other concerns. For example, certain exemplary embodiments of the invention relate to potential-driven shades that may be used with IG units, IG units that include such shades, and/or methods of manufacturing the same.

In certain exemplary embodiments, an insulating glass (IG) unit is provided. The first base material and the second base material each have an inner main surface and an outer main surface, and the inner main surface of the first base material faces the inner main surface of the second base material. There is. The spacer system serves to maintain the first substrate and the second substrate in a substantially parallel spaced relationship with respect to each other and to define a gap therebetween. An anchor and a stop are provided, and at least a portion of the stop is electrically conductive. A dynamically controllable shade is inserted between the first substrate and the second substrate. The shade includes a first electrically conductive layer provided directly or indirectly on the inner major surface of the first substrate, and on the side of the first electrically conductive layer opposite the first substrate. A shutter comprising a first dielectric layer provided directly or indirectly on a first conductive layer and a flexible substrate supporting a second conductive layer, the shutter comprising: a shutter extendable toward the stop to a closed shutter position and retractable from the stop toward the anchor to an open shutter position. A second dielectric layer is provided directly or indirectly on the anchor-facing surface of the stop. a first voltage on the first conductive layer and the second conductive layer for generating a first electrostatic force such that the control circuit drives the flexible substrate to a shutter closed position; configured to provide a second voltage to the electrically conductive portion of the stop for generating a second electrostatic force to assist in electrostatically latching the flexible substrate to the stop; has been done.

In certain exemplary embodiments, a substrate is provided that includes an anchor and a stop, and at least a portion of the stop is electrically conductive. A dynamically controllable shade is provided thereon, the shade comprising: a first electrically conductive layer provided directly or indirectly on the substrate; is a shutter comprising, on opposite sides, a first dielectric layer provided directly or indirectly on a first conductive layer and a flexible substrate supporting a second conductive layer; , the shutter includes a shutter extendable from the anchor toward the stop to a shutter closed position and retractable from the stop toward the anchor to a shutter open position. A second dielectric layer is provided directly or indirectly on the anchor-facing surface of the stop. The first electrically conductive layer and the second electrically conductive layer and the electrically conductive portion of the stop all form a first electrostatic force for generating a first electrostatic force to drive the flexible substrate to the shutter closed position. a first voltage to the first conductive layer and the second conductive layer, and a second electrostatic force for generating a second electrostatic force to assist in electrostatically latching the flexible substrate to the stop; , a second voltage to the conductive portion of the stop.

In certain exemplary embodiments, a method of manufacturing an insulating glass (IG) unit is provided. The method includes a first substrate and a second substrate, each having an interior major surface and an exterior major surface, wherein the interior major surface of the first substrate overlaps the interior major surface of the second substrate. having a first substrate and a second substrate facing a surface. Anchors and stops are provided. At least a portion of the stop is electrically conductive. A second dielectric layer is provided directly or indirectly on the anchor-facing surface of the stop. A dynamically controllable shade is provided on the first substrate and/or the second substrate, the shade being provided directly or indirectly on the interior major surface of the first substrate. a first electrically conductive layer, and a first dielectric provided directly or indirectly on the first electrically conductive layer on the side of the first electrically conductive layer opposite the first substrate; a flexible substrate supporting a layer and a second electrically conductive layer, the shutter being extendable from an anchor toward a stop to a closed shutter position; and a shutter that is retractable to a shutter open position. The first conductive layer and the second conductive layer and the conductive portion of the stop are connected to a control circuit, the control circuit configured to: (a) drive the flexible substrate to a shutter closed position; (b) electrostatically latching the flexible substrate to the stop to generate a first electrostatic force on the first conductive layer and the second conductive layer; and is configured to provide a second voltage to the conductive portion of the stop to generate a second electrostatic force to assist in inducing the stop. The first substrate and the second substrate are connected to each other in a substantially parallel spaced relationship such that a gap is defined therebetween and the dynamically controllable shade is located in the gap. .

In certain exemplary embodiments, a method of operating a dynamic shade within an insulated glass (IG) unit is provided. The method includes an IG unit manufactured according to the techniques disclosed herein and selectively activating a power source to move a polymeric substrate between a shutter open position and a shutter closed position. and, including.

The features, aspects, advantages, and example embodiments described herein may be combined to achieve further embodiments.

These and other features and advantages may be better and more completely understood by reference to the following detailed description of exemplary embodiments, taken in conjunction with the drawings.

1 is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of an exemplary insulating glass unit (IG unit or IGU); FIG.

1 is a cross-sectional schematic diagram of an example IGU incorporating a voltage-driven shade that may be used in connection with certain example embodiments; FIG.

3 is a cross-sectional view illustrating exemplary on-glass components of the example IGU of FIG. 2 that enable shutter operation, in accordance with certain exemplary embodiments; FIG.

3 is a cross-sectional view of an example shutter from the example IGU of FIG. 2, according to certain example embodiments. FIG.

5 is a plan view of a substrate incorporating on-glass components from the example of FIG. 3 and shutter components from the example of FIG. 4, according to certain exemplary embodiments; FIG.

2 is a schematic diagram of a first example shade with an electrostatic retraction feature implemented using two independent voltage sources, according to certain example embodiments; FIG.

FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of a second example shade having an electrostatic retraction feature implemented using a voltage source, according to certain example embodiments.

2 is a cross-sectional view of a first shutter usable in connection with electrostatic retraction, according to certain exemplary embodiments; FIG.

FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of a second shutter usable in connection with electrostatic retraction, according to certain exemplary embodiments.

FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of a third shutter usable in connection with electrostatic retraction, according to certain exemplary embodiments.

1 is a schematic diagram of a portion of a dynamic shade system incorporating an electrostatic latch stop bar, according to certain exemplary embodiments; FIG.

12 is a flowchart detailing how the shade system of FIG. 11 may operate in certain exemplary embodiments.

1 is a schematic diagram of an example system for controlling operation of a shutter including a latch stop bar, according to certain example embodiments; FIG.

14 illustrates an example control circuit that may be part of a controller usable in connection with FIG. 13, according to certain example embodiments.

Certain exemplary embodiments of the invention relate to potential-driven shades that may be used with IG units, IG units including such shades, and/or methods of manufacturing the same. Referring now to the drawings in more detail, FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional schematic illustration of an exemplary insulating glass unit (IG unit or IGU) incorporating a potential-driven shade that may be used in connection with certain exemplary embodiments. be. More specifically, FIG. 2 shows substantially parallel spaced apart first glass substrate 102 and second glass substrate 104 separated from each other using spacer system 106, with gap 108 separating them. It is similar to FIG. 1 in that it is defined in between. A first potential-driven shade 202a and a second potential-driven shade 202b are provided within the gap 108 proximate the inner major surfaces of the first substrate 102 and the second substrate 104, respectively. As will become clear from the description provided below, shades 202a and 202b are controlled by the creation of a potential difference between shades 202a and 202b and conductive coatings formed on the inner surfaces of substrates 102 and 104, respectively. Ru. Additionally, as will become clear from the description provided below, each shade 202a and 202b uses a polymeric membrane coated with a conductive coating (e.g., a coating comprising a layer containing Al, Cr, ITO, etc.). It can be created by Aluminum coated shades can provide partial to complete reflection of visible light and up to a significant amount of total solar energy.

Shades 202a and 202b are typically retracted (e.g., rolled up), but with an appropriate voltage applied to cover at least a portion of substrates 102 and 104, e.g., as in "traditional" blinds. Sometimes rapidly elongating (e.g., unfolding). The roll-up shade may have a very small diameter, typically much smaller than the width of the gap 108 between the first substrate 102 and the second substrate 104, thereby , can function between them and be essentially hidden from view when rolled up. Unfolded shades 202a and 202b adhere strongly to their respective adjacent substrates 102 and 104.

Shades 202a and 202b extend along all or a portion of the vertical length of the visible or "frame" area of substrates 102 and 104 from a retracted configuration to an extended configuration. In the retracted configuration, shades 202a and 202b have a first surface area that substantially allows radiation transmission through the frame area. In the extended configuration, shades 202a and 202b have a second surface area that substantially controls radiation transmission through the frame area. Shades 202a and 202b may have a width that extends across all or a portion of the horizontal width of the frame area of substrates 102 and 104 to which they are attached.

Each shade 202a and 202b is disposed between the first substrate 102 and the second substrate 104, preferably each shaded at one end of the substrate near the top of the substrate. Attached to the inner surface (or to a dielectric or other layer disposed over the substrate). In this regard, an adhesive layer may be used. In FIG. 2, shades 202a and 202b are shown partially deployed (partially extended). Shades 202a and 202b and any adhesive layer or other attachment structure are preferably hidden from view so that they are only visible when shades 202a and 202b are at least partially deployed.

The diameter of a fully rolled up shade is preferably about 1-5 mm, but may be greater than 5 mm in certain exemplary embodiments. Preferably, the diameter of the rolled up shade is no greater than the width of the gap 108, which is typically about 10-25 mm (in some cases 10-15 mm) to facilitate rapid and repeated deployment and rolling operations. be. Although two shades 202a and 202b are shown in the example of FIG. 2, only one shade may be provided in certain exemplary embodiments, and one shade may be It will also be appreciated that it may be provided on any interior surface of 104. In an exemplary embodiment where there are two shades, the combined diameter is preferably less than or equal to the width of gap 108, for example, to facilitate deployment and roll-up operations of both shades.

An electronic controller may be provided to help drive shades 202a and 202b. The electronic controller may be electrically connected to shades 202a and 202b and substrates 102 and 104, such as via suitable leads. The leads can be hidden from view through the assembled IG unit. The electronic controller is configured to provide an output voltage to shades 202a and 202b to conductive layers within substrates 102 and 104, respectively. In certain exemplary embodiments, an output voltage in the range of approximately 100-600V DC may be used to drive shades 202a and 202b. In this regard, external AC or DC power supplies, DC batteries, etc. may be used. It will be appreciated that higher or lower output voltages may be provided depending on manufacturing parameters and materials, including, for example, the shades 202a and 202b, the layers on the substrates 102 and 104, and the like.

The controller may be coupled to a manual switch, remote (eg, wireless) control, or other input device, for example, to indicate whether shades 202a and 202b should be retracted or extended. In certain exemplary embodiments, the electronic controller may include a processor operably coupled to a memory storing instructions for receiving and decoding control signals, wherein the control signals include selectively applying voltages. to control extension and/or retraction of shades 202a and 202b. Further instructions may be provided by which other functions may be implemented. For example, a timer can be provided such that shades 202a and 202b can be programmed to extend and retract at user-specified or other times and when user-specified indoor and/or outdoor temperatures are reached. Temperature sensors can be provided so that the shades 202a and 202b can be programmed to extend and retract based on the amount of light outside the structure, etc. A light sensor can be provided such that it can be programmed to do so.

As mentioned above, although two shades 202a and 202b are shown in FIG. 2, certain exemplary embodiments may incorporate only a single shade. Further, as discussed above, such shades may be designed to extend vertically and horizontally along and substantially throughout the IG unit, and different exemplary embodiments show that they It may also include a shade that covers only the portion of the IG unit where it is placed. In such cases, multiple shades may be provided, such as to provide more selectable range, to account for internal or external structures such as mantimbers, to simulate plantation shutters, etc. As another example, a first shade can cover a first portion of a window (e.g., the top or left/right portion) and a second shade can cover a second portion of the window (e.g., the bottom or right/left). As another example, first, second, and third shades may be provided to cover different approximately one-third portions of a given window.

In certain exemplary embodiments, a locking restraint may be disposed at the bottom of the IGU, e.g., along part or all of its width, to help prevent the shade from deploying its entire length. good. The lock restraint may be manufactured from an electrically conductive material such as metal. The lock restraint may also be coated with a low dissipation polymer such as, for example, polypropylene, fluorinated ethylene propylene (FEP), polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE).

Exemplary details of the operation of shades 202a and 202b are provided in connection with FIGS. 3-4. More specifically, FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view illustrating example "on-glass" components of the example IGU of FIG. 2 that enable shutter operation, according to certain example embodiments; 4 is a cross-sectional view of an exemplary shutter of the embodiment IGU of FIG. 2, according to certain example embodiments. FIG. 3 shows a glass substrate 302 that can be used for either or both substrates 102 and 104 of FIG. Glass substrate 302 supports on-glass components 304 and shutter 312. In certain exemplary embodiments, when unwrapped, electrical conductor 404 may be closer to substrate 302 than ink layer 406. In other exemplary embodiments, this configuration may be reversed such that, for example, when unrolled, electrical conductor 404 may be further from substrate 302 than ink layer 406.

The on-glass component 304 includes a transparent conductor 306 along with a dielectric material 308 that may be adhered to the substrate 302 via a transparent low haze adhesive 310 or the like. These materials are preferably substantially transparent. In certain exemplary embodiments, transparent conductor 306 is electrically connected to a lead to a controller via a terminal. In certain exemplary embodiments, transparent conductor 306 serves as the fixed electrode of the capacitor, and dielectric material 308 serves as the dielectric of the capacitor. In such cases, a dielectric or insulator film is provided directly or indirectly on the first conductive layer, and the dielectric or insulator film is separate from the shutter.

In certain exemplary embodiments, all of the dielectric layers may be placed on the shade, thereby exposing a bare conductive (flat) substrate, e.g., a glass substrate supporting a conductive coating. It will be understood that this is possible. For example, in certain exemplary embodiments, polymer film insulator 308 may be provided/integrated as part of shutter 312 rather than provided/integrated as part of substrate 302. That is, the shutter 312 further supports a dielectric or insulating film 308 thereon so that when the at least one polymeric substrate is in the shutter closed position and the shutter is extended, the dielectric or insulating film 308 are in direct physical contact with the first conductive layer with no other layers between them.

Transparent conductor 306 may be formed from any suitable material, such as, for example, ITO, tin oxide (eg, SnO ₂ or other suitable stoichiometry). Transparent conductor 306 may be 10-500 nm thick in certain exemplary embodiments. Dielectric material 308 may be a low-dissipation polymer in certain exemplary embodiments. Suitable materials include, for example, polypropylene, FEP, PTFE, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyimide (PI), and polyethylene napthalate (PEN). Dielectric material 308 may have a thickness of 1-30 micrometers (4-25 micrometers) in certain exemplary embodiments. The thickness of the dielectric material 308 may vary (e.g., thinner dielectric layers typically reduce reliability, whereas thicker dielectric layers typically require higher applied voltages for operational purposes). ), the reliability of the shade can be chosen to balance the reliability of the shade.

As is known, many low emissivity (low E) coatings are electrically conductive. Accordingly, in certain exemplary embodiments, a low-E coating may be used in place of transparent conductor 306. The low E coating may be a silver-based low E coating, for example, one, two, three, or more layers containing Ag may be sandwiched between dielectric layers. In such cases, the need for adhesive 310 may be reduced or completely eliminated.

Shutter 312 may include elastic layer 402. In certain exemplary embodiments, an electrical conductor 404 may be used on one side of the elastic layer 402, and optionally a decorative ink 406 may be applied to the other side. In certain exemplary embodiments, conductor 404 may be transparent, and decorative ink 406 is optional, as shown. In certain exemplary embodiments, conductor 404 and/or decorative ink 406 may be translucent or otherwise impart color or aesthetic features to shutter 312. In certain exemplary embodiments, elastic layer 402 may be formed from a shrinkable polymer such as, for example, PEN, PET, polyphenylene sulfide (PPS), polyether ether ketone (PEEK), etc. . Elastic layer 402 may be 1-25 micrometers thick in certain exemplary embodiments. Electrical conductor 404 may be formed from the same or different material used for electrical conductor 306 in different exemplary embodiments. For example, metal or metal oxide materials may be used. Certain exemplary embodiments may use 10-50 nm thick materials including layers including, for example, ITO, Al, Ni, NiCr, tin oxide, and the like. In certain exemplary embodiments, the sheet resistance of electrical conductor 404 may range from 40 to 200 ohms/square. It will be appreciated that different conductivity values and/or thicknesses (such as the exemplary thicknesses listed in the table below) may be used in different exemplary embodiments.

Decorative ink 406 may include pigments, particles, and/or other materials that selectively reflect and/or absorb desired visible colors and/or infrared radiation. In certain exemplary embodiments, additional decorative ink may be applied to shutter 312 on the side of conductor 404 opposite elastic layer 402.

As shown in FIG. 2, shades 202a and 202b are typically wound as spiral rolls, with the outer ends of the spirals being secured to substrates 102 and 104 (e.g., a dielectric on the substrate) by an adhesive. has been done. The conductor 404 may be electrically connected to a lead wire or the like via a terminal, and functions as a variable electrode of a capacitor having the conductor 306 as a fixed electrode of the capacitor and the dielectric 308 as a dielectric of the capacitor. You may.

When an electrical drive is provided between the variable electrode and the fixed electrode, for example, an electrical drive of voltage or charge or current is applied between the electrical conductor 404 of the shutter 312 and the electrical conductor 306 on the substrate 302. When the shutter 312 is pulled toward the substrate 302 by the electrostatic force generated by the potential difference between the two electrodes. When the variable electrode is pulled, a coiled shade unfolds. The electrostatic force on the variable electrode securely holds the shutter 312 against the fixed electrode on the substrate 302. As a result, the ink coating layer 406 of the shade is inserted into the optical path through the IG unit to help selectively reflect or absorb certain visible colors and/or infrared radiation. In this way, the deployed shade controls radiation transmission by selectively blocking and/or reflecting certain light or other radiation, thereby controlling the overall functionality of the IG unit. This changes the overall functionality of the IG unit, such that it is partially or selectively transparent or even opaque.

When the electrical drive between the variable and fixed electrodes is removed, the electrostatic forces on the variable electrodes are removed as well. The spring constant present in the elastic layer 402 and conductor 404 causes the shade to return to its original tightly wound position. Since movement of the shade is primarily controlled by capacitive circuitry, current essentially only flows while the shade is either being deployed or rolled up. As a result, the average power consumption of the shade is very low. In this way, at least in some instances, several standard AA batteries can be used to operate a shade for several years.

In one example, the substrate 302 may be a 3 mm thick clear glass commercially available from Assignee. For the adhesive layer 310, an acrylic adhesive with low haze may be used. Sputtered ITO having a resistance of 100-300 ohms/square may be used for conductor 306. The polymer film may be a 12 micrometer thick, low haze (eg, <1% haze) PET material. As decorative ink 406, Sun Chemical Inc. PVC-based inks, available from PVC, may be applied at a thickness of 3 to 8 micrometers. The elastic layer 402 can be a PEN material commercially available from DuPont that is 6, 12, or 25 micrometers thick. An Al-deposited opaque conductor with a nominal thickness of 375 nm may be used. For a transparent option, sputtered ITO may be used. In both cases, the sheet resistance may be between 100 and 400 ohms/square. (If aluminum is used, the sheet resistance may be less than 100 ohms/square. In certain exemplary embodiments, the sheet resistance may be even less than 1 ohm/square. In embodiments, ITO or other conductive materials may be sputtered or otherwise formed on their respective polymeric carrier layers. , electrical properties, and various combinations and subcombinations thereof, etc., are not to be considered limiting unless specifically claimed.

As can be seen from the above description, the dynamic shade mechanism uses a coiled polymer with a conductive layer. In certain exemplary embodiments, the electrical conductor may be formed integrally with the polymer 402 or may be an external coating applied, deposited, or otherwise formed on the polymer 402. good. Also as mentioned above, decorative ink 406 may be used with transparent conductive materials (eg, based on ITO) and/or partially transparent or opaque conductive layers. Opaque or partially transparent conductive layers can eliminate the need for ink in certain exemplary embodiments. In this regard, metal or substantially metallic materials may be used in certain exemplary embodiments. Aluminum is one example of a material that can be used with or without decorative ink.

One or more overcoat layers are provided on the conductor to help reduce visible light reflection and/or change the shade color to provide a more aesthetically pleasing product. It may be helpful to "split" the electrical conductors so that a phase shifter layer appears between them. Thus, an overcoat may be included to improve the overall shade aesthetic appearance. Accordingly, the shutter 312 may include a reflection reducing overcoat, a dielectric mirror overcoat, or the like. Such reflection-reducing overcoats and dielectric mirror overcoats may be provided on the major surface of the shade polymer 402 that includes (for example) PEN over the conductor 404 and opposite the decorative ink 406. However, it will be appreciated that if, for example, conductor 404 is not transparent, ink 406 need not be provided. For example, a mirror coating such as Al can eliminate the need for decorative ink 406. It is also noted that a reflection reducing overcoat and a dielectric mirror overcoat may, in certain exemplary embodiments, be provided on the major surface of the shade polymer 402 comprising (for example) PEN on the opposite side of the electrical conductor 404. be understood.

In addition to or instead of using optical interference techniques to reduce reflections, adding textured surfaces to the base polymer, chemically or physically modifying the conductive layer, and/or It is also possible to add ink layers to achieve further reduction of undesired reflections, etc., for example to achieve the same or similar edges.

The materials may be selected taking into account that the membrane and/or other materials comprising the shutter must withstand multiple roll-up and unfolding operations according to the function of the overall shade, and the overall layer laminate formed will be understood to have mechanical and/or other properties that facilitate this. For example, excessive stress in thin film layer stacks is typically viewed as a disadvantage. However, in some cases, excessive stress can cause cracking, "delamination"/dislodgement, and/or the formation of the conductor 404 and/or the overcoat layer or overcoats formed over the conductor 404. This can lead to other damage to the layer. Therefore, in certain example embodiments, low stress (particularly low tensile stress) may be particularly desirable in connection with layers formed on the polymeric substrate of the shutter.

In this regard, the adhesion of sputtered thin films depends, among other things, on the stress in the deposited film. One way to adjust stress is to use deposition pressure. Stress versus sputter pressure does not follow a monotonic curve, but is instead a transition pressure that is essentially unique to each material and is a function of the ratio of the material's evaporation temperature (or melting temperature) to the substrate temperature. Injected. Stress engineering can be achieved by gas pressure optimization with these guideposts in mind.

Other physical and mechanical properties of the shade that can be taken into account include the modulus of the polymer and the layers formed on top of the polymer, the density ratio of the layers (which can affect stress/strain), etc. It will be done. These properties can be balanced with their effects on internal reflection, conductivity, etc.

As is known, the temperature inside an IG unit can be very high. For example, an IG unit containing a black pigment according to the embodiment of FIG. It has been observed that temperatures of 87°C can be reached. PEN has a higher glass transition temperature (approximately 120°C) compared to other common polymers such as PET (Tg = 67-81°C), polypropylene or PP (Tg = approximately 32°C). Therefore, it may be advantageous to use PEN materials for rollable/unrollable polymers. Additionally, when PEN is exposed to temperatures approaching the glass transition temperature, otherwise advantageous mechanical properties of the material (including material modulus, yield strength, tensile strength, stress relaxation modulus, etc.) Performance may deteriorate over time, especially with high temperature exposure. If these mechanical properties deteriorate significantly, the shade will no longer function (eg, the shade will not retract).

To help the shade better withstand high temperature environments, it may be advantageous to replace PEN with a polymer that has higher temperature resistance. Two potential polymers include PEEK and polyimide (PI or Kapton). PEEK has a Tg of about -142°C and Kapton HN has a Tg of about -380°C. Both of these materials have better mechanical properties in high temperature environments compared to PEN. This is especially true at temperatures above 100°C. The chart below refers to the mechanical properties of PEN (Teonex), PEEK, and PI (Kapton HN). UTS stands for ultimate tensile strength in the chart.

It is understood that changing the shade substrate from its current material (PEN) to an alternative polymer with increased high temperature mechanical properties (e.g. PEEK or PI/Kapton) can be advantageous in the following sense: be done. It may allow the shade to better withstand internal IG temperatures, especially if the shade is installed in a hot climate. It will be appreciated that in certain example embodiments, the use of alternative polymers may be used in conjunction with layers on the shutter and/or glass.

Additionally or alternatively, certain exemplary embodiments may use dyed polymeric materials. For example, dyed PEN, PEEK, PI/Kapton, or other polymers can be used to create shades with a variety of colors and/or aesthetics. For example, dyed polymers may be advantageous in transparent/translucent application embodiments, such as when the transparent conductive layer is a transparent conductive coating.

The spring force of alternative coiled shades may be usefully modified to allow use for a variety of lengths. In this regard, properties of the conductive layer that increase the strength of the coil include increased modulus of elasticity, increased coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) difference between the polymeric substrate and the conductive layer, and increased elasticity. Including an increase in rate-to-density ratio. Some of the pure metals that can be used to increase coil strength compared to Al or Cr include Ni, W, Mo, Ti, and Ta. The elastic modulus of the metal layers studied ranged from 70 GPa for Al to 330 GPa for Mo. The CTE of the metal layers studied ranged from 23.5×10 ⁻⁶ /k for Al to 4.8×10 ⁻⁶ /k for Mo. Generally, the higher the elastic modulus, the greater the CTE mismatch between PEN or other polymer and the metal, the lower the density, etc., the better the material selection for coil formation. It has been found that incorporating Mo and Ti based conductive layers into the shade resulted in significantly higher coil spring forces than achievable with Al. For example, it may advantageously include a polymeric substrate based on PEN, PEEK, PI, etc., supporting (in order away from the substrate) an Al-containing layer followed by a Mo-containing layer. Thin film layers within the conductive coating and/or the conductive coating itself can be provided with a higher modulus and lower CTE than Al.

PEN, PI, or other polymeric substrates used as shutters may support a thin layer containing Al for stress engineering purposes, conductive material containing directly or indirectly Mo, Ti, etc. on top of the thin layer. The layer may also be supported. The conductive layer may support a corrosion resistant layer including Al, Ti, stainless steel, etc. The side of the substrate opposite these layers can optionally support decorative ink or the like.

FIG. 5 is a top view of substrate 102 incorporating on-glass component 304 from the example of FIG. 3 and shutter component 312 from the example of FIG. 4, according to certain exemplary embodiments. Shutter 312 extends from anchor bar 502 toward stop 504 when moving to the shutter closed position. The shutter retracts from the stop 504 toward the anchor bar 502 when moving to the shutter open position.

Certain exemplary embodiments may include micro-perforations or through-holes that allow light to pass through the shade and provide a progressive amount of solar transmission based on the angle of the sun.

Further manufacturing, operational, and/or other details and substitutions may be implemented. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 8,982,441, U.S. Pat. No. 8,736,938, U.S. Pat. No. 7,645,977, as well as U.S. Patent Application No. 16/028,546, filed July 6, 2018, the entire contents of each of which are hereby incorporated by reference. Incorporated. Among other things, perforation configurations, polymeric materials, conductive coating designs, stress engineering concepts, building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV), and other details are disclosed therein, at least the teachings thereof. , may be incorporated into certain exemplary embodiments.

As can be appreciated from the above discussion, one problem associated with dynamic shade designs relates to the formation of retractable shutters. In particular, care may be taken to select and implement materials with sufficient spring force to allow automatic retraction over time. In many cases, ensuring that the shutter is properly made to have sufficient spring force to retract, and the spring force to retract over the life of the window or other product with which the shutter is integrated. It will be important to tightly control the manufacturing parameters to ensure that they remain sufficient to cause oxidation. If the spring constant is not sufficient or deteriorates over time, the shutter may "stuck" in the extended or partially extended position. This may be because the spring constant is simply insufficient to cause re-rolling even when no voltage is applied. Furthermore, even if the spring constant is properly configured and remains high enough to at least theoretically, it can provide setback over time and build up static charge after repeated use. This charge accumulation can "hook" the shutter in an extended or partially extended position, in a manner similar to that described above, even when no power is provided. In this context, "polar swapping" refers to natural phenomena that can interfere with the operation of the shutter and can be thought of as related to surface charges (on the dielectric surface) or semi-permanent electrostatic polarization (in the dielectric volume). It may be hindered. Also, for closed systems, excessive electrical charges may occur, as it may be difficult and sometimes impossible to repair and/or replace defective shutters and/or shutter(s) that have "worn out" over time. The system and/or pole in which is accumulating is switched.

In certain exemplary embodiments, one electrical potential may be used to help extend the shutter in one direction, and another electrical potential causes the shade to retract in another direction opposite to the first direction. . For example, a shutter may be designed with a stack of layers such that circuitry connected to it may be selectively switchable between providing down and up forces. As explained in more detail below, an electric field can be provided to facilitate retraction. In certain exemplary embodiments, the electric field may be set to simply promote retraction (eg, if the shutter gets stuck). In certain exemplary embodiments, the electric field may be set for the entire retraction operation.

In this manner, certain exemplary embodiments may help address pole swapping and charge build-up issues, while also combating spring aging and deterioration over time (e.g., increasing durability and lifespan). (promoting) approaches can also be provided. Additionally or alternatively, certain exemplary embodiments may be used to simply "boost" a small amount of winding at the beginning of retraction and/or one or more times when retraction stalls. This makes it possible to use materials with lower spring constants. This may also be advantageous because manufacturing tolerances may be relaxed and ease of manufacture may be facilitated.

Certain exemplary embodiments provide dynamic shades having alternating conductive and dielectric layers. For example, at least four layers alternating between conductive and dielectric layers may be provided in certain exemplary embodiments. When the shade is partially curled (eg, part of the shade remains flat), the conductive layers are separated from each other by a dielectric layer. A voltage applied between the conductive layers creates an electric field that attracts the curled portion to the flat portion and causes the shade to retract.

FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram of a first example shade 602 with an electrostatic retraction feature implemented using two independent voltage sources 604a-604b, according to certain example embodiments. In Figure 6, the shade polymer has been omitted for clarity. The two voltage sources 604a-604b are independently controllable. The first voltage source provides normal functionality as a standard shade. In FIG. 6, the first voltage source 604a is shown as the lower voltage symbol, and its negative terminal connects to the backplane conductor, which is located below the dielectric 308 in the on-glass component 304. (eg, as described in connection with FIG. 3). In normal operation, this is a variable source and its polarity and voltage can be reversed.

A second voltage source activates the counterrotation force. In FIG. 6, the second voltage source 604b is shown as the upper voltage symbol. By increasing the potential difference of the second voltage source 604b, an electric field E is created between the first and second conductive layers 606a-606b on the rotatable shutter. As can be seen from the above, the first and second conductive layers 606a-606b are separated by first and second dielectric layers 608a-608b. The resulting torque T acts counterclockwise to produce a force F that acts to the left (in this schematic and in the orientation of this example). During operation, the resulting torque is applied in the direction of rotation (vertical and substantially It will be appreciated that, for vertical installations, it operates in a generally counterclockwise direction. Of course, it will be appreciated that torque is partially dependent on perspective. For example, if the shade widens to the left or the same shade is viewed from opposite edges, the torque will appear clockwise.

FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram of a second example shade 702 having an electrostatic retraction feature implemented using a voltage source, according to certain example embodiments. In Figure 7, the shade polymer has been omitted for clarity. Shade 702 in FIG. 7 is similar to shade 602 in FIG. As described above, increasing the potential difference creates an electric field E between the first and second conductive layers 606a-606b on the rotatable shutter. The first and second conductive layers 606a-606b are separated by first and second dielectric layers 608a-608b. The resulting torque T generates a force F, which acts to encourage the entire shutter to retract. FIG. 7 differs from FIG. 6 with respect to the control circuit 704 used. For example, in certain exemplary embodiments, a two-phase H-bridge with series-connected inductors may be extended and generalized to include a third electrode forming a three-phase bridge. A three-phase bridge circuit can be realized using low cost gate driver technology commonly used in high voltage motor controllers (such as in the hybrid vehicle industry). Circuit 704 includes three individually connected inductors in series with each bridge output terminal, allowing for highly efficient energy recovery.

As mentioned above, 100-600V DC is suitable for extension in most applications, and the same or similar range can be used for retraction. In certain exemplary embodiments, the voltage output of the bridge output terminal can be maintained anywhere between the supply voltages by appropriately limiting the current. In certain exemplary embodiments, a suitable pulse width modulation (PWM) waveform may be used. In this regard, PWM generally requires voltage and/or current measurements to provide feedback signals to the control loop. It will be appreciated that the exact duty cycle and duration can be determined by one of ordinary skill in the art. In certain exemplary embodiments, a two-phase "H-bridge" or a three-phase bridge may be considered advantageous over the circuit of FIG. 6 (for example) because only a single voltage source is required.

As mentioned above, the shutter 312 may include a biaxially oriented polymer-based layer (eg, such as or including PEN). The polymeric layer may be coated with a metal conductor on one side, followed by an ink coating on one or both sides. In this configuration, both the ink layer and the polymer-based layer act as dielectrics.

FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view of a first shutter 312' that may be used in connection with electrostatic retraction, according to certain exemplary embodiments. A shutter 312' for use with electrostatic retraction may have alternating conductive and dielectric layers, as described above. For example, as shown in FIGS. 6-7, in certain exemplary embodiments (eg, in addition to the shade polymer layer), four layers may be provided as a minimum.

A shutter 312' for use with electrostatic retraction according to FIG. 8 may be constructed by adapting or modifying the embodiment of FIG. 4. For example, in certain exemplary embodiments, both sides of the polymer-based layer 402 (e.g., or including PEN) are coated with a metal or other conductive coating, and then one or both An ink coating may be applied to the side. Providing ink on both sides may help create a more desirable aesthetic appearance in certain exemplary embodiments since the shade does not have a shiny metallic appearance when viewed from both sides of the shade. Thus, in FIG. 8, first and second conductive (eg, metal) layers 606a-606b sandwich polymer-based layer 402, and first and second dielectric (eg, ink) layers 608a-608b are also included. Furthermore, a polymer layer 402 is sandwiched therebetween. As shown in FIG. 8, first and second dielectric layers 608a-608b are provided on opposite surfaces of the first and second conductive layers 606a-606b adjacent to polymer-based layer 402. Ru.

Exemplary thicknesses of the layers are provided in the table below.

Generally, if aluminum is used for layer 606b, a thickness of at least 30 nm is desirable to allow good electrical contact. It will be appreciated that in certain exemplary embodiments, the ink itself may be formulated to be electrically conductive. In certain such cases, one conductive layer (eg, layer 606b comprising aluminum) may be replaced with a conductive ink, eg, essentially combining layers 606b and 608b into a single layer.

In certain exemplary embodiments, the ink layers have the same thickness (eg, 2 μm). Different inks and/or colors will vary in opacity, but a thickness of 2 μm is generally the minimum required to produce an opaque coating. The shade polymer (eg, PEN) layer and the first conductive layer of aluminum may be of standard thickness for shutters lacking electrostatic retraction functionality. The aluminum "doped" second conductive layer may be provided with a thickness less than the aluminum first conductive layer. This may be desirable in certain exemplary embodiments to help reduce changes in mechanical properties to the shade. For example, a good shade with a good spring constant, as opposed to cracking or peeling, can be achieved. This thickness arrangement, in certain exemplary embodiments, remains compatible with the thermal processes used in forming the shade, including, for example, processing flat material to produce curls. It has been found to be advantageous in helping to

FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of a second shutter 312 that can be used in conjunction with electrostatic retraction, according to certain exemplary embodiments. The example embodiment of FIG. 9 may be produced by differential tension lamination in certain example embodiments. For example, two (or more) main components may be manufactured. The first component may include a first polymer-based layer 902a (such as or including PET, PEN, etc.). This first polymeric layer 902a supports on its opposite major surface a first dielectric (eg, ink) layer 608a and a first conductive (eg, metal) layer 606a. Similarly, the second component may include a second polymer-based layer 902b (such as or including PET, PEN, etc.). The second polymeric layer 902b supports on its opposite major surface a second dielectric (eg, ink) layer 608b and a second conductive (eg, metal) layer 606b.

The mechanical spring force is generated in the differential tension between the first and second conductive layers 902a-902b (which may be or include aluminum, as described above). A pressure sensitive adhesive (PSA) or "glue" layer 904 connects the two components together. Furthermore, the adhesive 904 acts as a dielectric to separate the first and second conductive layers 902a-902b. Additionally or alternatively, thermal bonding may be used in certain exemplary embodiments. In this regard, polyethylene (eg, LDPE) can be bonded without the addition of adhesive at reasonable temperatures compatible with other processing operations. In this example, electrostatic retraction is caused by an electric field acting through both the ink layers 608a-608b and the PET layers 902a-902b.

Exemplary thicknesses of the layers are provided in the table below.

In certain exemplary embodiments, different materials may be used for the conductive (e.g., metal) layers, including layers 606a and 606b that include aluminum in the table above, and/or that include PET in the table above. Different materials may be used for the polymer (eg, PET) layers, including layers 902a and 902b. For example, PET, PEN, etc. can be used. In certain exemplary embodiments, the order of the conductive layer and polymer layer may be reversed. For example, in certain exemplary embodiments, the following layer order: ink/conductive (e.g., metal) layer/polymer/(optional) glue/polymer conductive (e.g., metal) layer/ink is used. obtain. FIG. 10, which is a cross-sectional view of a third shutter 312''' that can be used in conjunction with electrostatic retraction, according to certain exemplary embodiments, illustrates this arrangement. This arrangement may be advantageous in certain exemplary embodiments in that it helps increase the effective thickness of the dielectric separating the two conductive layers. This reduces the fixed value capacitance, which does not contribute to the retraction force, but requires energy to charge. In this arrangement, the same or similar thicknesses may be used.

The total effective dielectric thickness includes the thickness of the ink layer and the PET layer, as well as any trapped air. In certain exemplary embodiments, this thickness may be between 4 and 120 μm, more preferably between 8 and 60 μm, and by way of example may be 14 μm. In certain exemplary embodiments, the first and second ink layers can have the same or substantially the same thickness. In certain exemplary embodiments, the thickness of the first and second PET layers may be the same or substantially the same. In certain exemplary embodiments, the thickness of the first and second conductive (eg, metallic aluminum or other material) layers may be the same or substantially the same. In this case, "substantially the same" means a variation in thickness of more than 15%, more preferably more than 10%. In at least some cases, common thicknesses are available here. In the case of heat-treated shades with equal aluminum thickness, the stresses in the aluminum layers contradict each other, resulting in, for example, a very weak shade. Typically, the compression of a single aluminum layer is offset by the tension of a polymer (eg, PEN) layer. )

Although the examples discussed in connection with FIGS. 8-9 list several candidate materials for the conductive and polymeric layers, any of the materials described herein (and/or other It will be appreciated that suitable materials) may be used in place of or in conjunction with those materials. For example, in certain exemplary embodiments, the conductive layer can be of or include Al, Cu, Mo, Ti, NiCr, and the like. Copper has been found to be advantageous in that the available metal coatings contain high elasticity (elastic energy storage at yield stress) and maximum shade length has been found to correlate directly with elasticity. Served. For high performance, for example, an interleaved structure of aluminum with 60 nm of copper can be implemented and provide a high level of resiliency. In certain exemplary embodiments, the polymer-based layer can be or include PEN, PET, PI, and the like. Although pressure sensitive adhesives have been described, it will be appreciated that other materials may be used to connect polymeric and/or other materials together. For example, laminates and other adhesives may be used.

An advantage of the electrostatic retraction concept described herein is that the electric field increases the pressure between the shade windings. This pressure increases the normal force between the layers and increases the inter-turn frictional force. If the inter-turn static friction force is high enough, the windings cannot slide against each other. Without sliding, the shade tracks in a linear direction, preventing stretching and distortion. Accordingly, certain exemplary embodiments are advantageous in reducing the likelihood (and sometimes preventing the occurrence) of distortion and/or stretching.

In certain exemplary embodiments, the voltage may be applied and remain on until the shade is fully retracted. In certain exemplary embodiments, a voltage may be provided to generate an electrostatic force to retract according to one or more predefined times and/or timing patterns. For example, when retraction is triggered, a voltage may be provided to create an electrostatic force for retraction immediately and at predetermined time intervals (eg, every 2-5 ms). In certain exemplary embodiments, the voltage for retraction may be cycled and turned off according to a predetermined pattern until the shade is determined to be in its fully retracted position. Determination of complete retraction can be accomplished using optical means (e.g., scanning to determine whether the shade is on top of the article on which it is placed or other desired location) and electrical sensing. (e.g. by rotation to achieve its full thickness) (e.g. based on the conductive layer in contact with the bus line etc. provided on the top of the article being disposed or other desired location) This can be done, such as by triggering a manual actuator (triggered).

In certain exemplary embodiments, the cycle may be performed for a period of time during which the shade is expected to retract (eg, based on testing, etc.). For example, if the shade is known or expected to fully retract in 10 ms, 5 pulses may be provided at 2 ms intervals to "encourage" complete retraction.

In addition, or as an alternative to providing fixed timing for pulses to promote retraction, optical systems, mechanical actuators, electrical means, etc., may be used to provide an "on-demand" voltage to promote retraction. It can be used in a similar manner as described above to make a determination. That is, these means may be provided to help determine whether the shutter is "stuck" in only an extended or partially retracted position. Regardless of whether fixed timing is used, if the shutter is determined to be fixed, a voltage may be created to help facilitate the torque associated with the reverse rotation.

As yet another option that can be used above, manual operation can trigger a voltage to facilitate retraction. This manual action can be facilitated when a human user signals that the shutter is stuck, extended or retracted, etc.

Step-up transformers (eg, flyback transformers) and the like may additionally or alternatively be incorporated in certain exemplary embodiments, eg, to help further reduce the effects of pole swapping. In this regard, the techniques described in US patent application Ser. No. 16/947,014, filed July 15, 2020, may be used. The entire contents of the '014 application are incorporated herein by reference.

To help further reduce (and potentially even eliminate) the voltage required to hold the shade in the extended position, certain exemplary embodiments may, for example, replace the locking restraints described above. A modified latch stop bar may also be utilized. The modified latch stop bar of certain exemplary embodiments allows the extended shade to maintain very little stored energy in some instances. Additionally, the latching stop bar can help reduce or eliminate the risk of shock, reduce power consumption, and extend battery life.

FIG. 11 is a schematic illustration of a portion of a dynamic shade system incorporating an electrostatic latch stop bar, according to certain exemplary embodiments. In FIG. 11, the second substrate and spacer system have been removed for ease of understanding. The elements of FIG. 11 are similar to those shown in and described above in connection with FIG. 3. For example, the substrate 1102 supports a component 1104 on glass that includes a first conductive coating 1106 supported by a first dielectric 1108. These glass components 1104 are bonded to the substrate 1102 via a transparent low haze adhesive 1110. The same or similar materials described above may be used in connection with the on-glass component 1104. For example, first conductive coating 1106 may include a layer that includes ITO, and first dielectric 1108 may be a polymeric film insulator such as, for example, PET.

Shutter 1112 extends from anchor bar 1122 toward electrostatic latch stop bar 1124 . Shutter roll 1112a is shown substantially fully extended in the schematic diagram of FIG. Similar to FIG. 4 and related discussion, the shutter 1112 includes, in order away from the substrate 1102, an optional decorative ink layer, a second conductive coating supported by a shade polymer, and another optional decorative ink layer. Contains a layer containing. The same or similar materials described above may be used in connection with shutter 1112. For example, the shade polymer may include PEN, the second conductive coating may include ITO, Al, Mo, or another metal, and so on.

The designs shown in and described in connection with FIGS. 3-4, which may be used in certain exemplary embodiments, are shown in and described in FIGS. 8-10. It will be appreciated that the designs described in connection with the above may be used in connection with different exemplary embodiments. This may be useful in situations where it is desirable to implement both a latch stop bar and motorized retraction of the shutter.

Latch stop bar 1124 supports dielectric material 1126 on the surface facing anchor bar 1122. The latch stop bar 1124 itself can include a relatively large electrically conductive structure, such as, for example, an aluminum extrusion, brass shim, or other electrical conductor. The surface of latch stop bar 1124 facing anchor bar 1122 can have a contour to help accommodate shutter roll 1112a when it is unfolded. As schematically shown in FIG. 11, the profile is curved and generally complements the shape of the shutter roll 1112a. In other words, when viewed in side cross section, the shutter roll 1112a is generally circular and is received by a generally semicircular cutout in the profile of the latch stop bar 1124.

Dielectric material 1126 can include, for example, polymer-based materials such as PI, PEN, PET, PMMA, and the like. In certain exemplary embodiments, PI tape (eg, Kapton tape) may be easily applied on the side of latch stop bar 1124 facing anchor bar 1122.

In certain exemplary embodiments, latch stop bar 1124 is electrically isolated from the shade (including on-glass component 1104, shutter 1112) and anchor bar 1122. Unlike some current designs, anchor bar 1122 and latch stop bar 1124 are not electrically connected to each other. This design allows the latch stop bar 1124 to be separately energized.

In this sense, the exemplary shade system of FIG. 11 is provided with three separate electrodes. A first electrode is defined relative to the component 1104 on the glass. A second electrode is defined in relation to anchor bar 1122 and shutter 1112. A third electrode is defined in relation to latch stop bar 1124. As alluded to above, each electrode may be separately actuated in certain exemplary embodiments.

For example, it will be appreciated that it may be desirable to control anchor bar 1122 and shutter 1112 together in the context of a single voltage provided to a single electrode. This is because the anchor bar 1122 provides a lot of "real estate" compared to the shutter 1112, which for example may be very small, rolled up, and not have much surface area to form electrical connections. , to make it easier to form electrical connections. However, in certain exemplary embodiments, a separate fourth electrode is defined in connection with anchor bar 1122. In such a case, voltages may be applied to anchor bar 1122 and shutter 1112 independently of each other.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart detailing how the shade system of FIG. 11 may operate in certain exemplary embodiments. In step S1202, a voltage is applied to the anchor bar and the components on the glass. In this regard, the voltage ranges discussed above can be used. For most applications, an exemplary voltage of 600V is suitable. The shutter is extended with the help of electrostatic forces, as shown in step S1204. In this regard, a first electrode and a second electrode are used.

If an electrostatic latch stop bar is not used, reducing the voltage at least somewhat when the shutter is fully extended and the dielectric on the glass (e.g., first dielectric 1108 in FIG. 11) is fully charged. is possible. For example, depending on the size of the windows and shades, the temperature at which the entire system is operating, etc., it may be possible to back off 20-50V if a capacitive latch stop bar is not used.

In contrast, in certain exemplary embodiments, the dielectric on the latch stop bar is charged in step S1206. This charging may occur before, during, and/or after shutter extension referenced in step S1204. Charging continues at least until the dielectric on the latch stop bar is charged, as shown in step S1208. Preferably, both the dielectric on the latch stop bar and the dielectric on the glass are fully charged. In certain exemplary embodiments, charging may be controlled such that the dielectric on the glass is fully charged before the dielectric on the latch stop bar is fully charged. In certain exemplary embodiments, charging may be controlled such that the dielectric on the glass is fully charged before charging on the latch stop bar is initiated.

When fully charged and the shutter is fully extended, the voltage provided to at least the components on the glass is reduced, for example in relation to the first electrode. In certain exemplary embodiments, the voltage provided to the anchor bar may be similarly reduced, eg, in conjunction with the second electrode.

In certain exemplary embodiments, the voltage provided to the components on the glass and the voltage provided to the anchor bar are simultaneously reduced. In certain exemplary embodiments, the voltage provided to the components on the glass is reduced before the voltage provided to the anchor bar is reduced.

Although the voltage provided to the electrostatic latch stop bar is reduced, the degree of reduction may not be as great as that made for the components on the glass. In some examples, the voltage level provided to the latch stop bar may be maintained or substantially maintained. Maintaining or substantially maintaining the voltage provided to the electrostatic latch stop bar may be accomplished by providing a continuous voltage or by only temporarily reducing the voltage applied to it (e.g., by reducing the voltage somewhat). (reducing the voltage and increasing the voltage again). Similarly, partial reduction of the voltage provided to the electrostatic latch stop bar can be achieved by reducing the voltage applied to it to a desired level independent of the voltage applied to other components, or This can be done by reducing the voltage on all components and then reapplying the voltage for the latch stop bar. In certain exemplary embodiments, the voltage provided to the components on the glass and/or the anchor bar is reduced and transmitted to the latch stop bar.

The latter option is illustrated in the exemplary flowchart of FIG. That is, as shown in FIG. 12, in step S1210, the voltages applied to the anchor bar, the components on the glass, and the stop bar are reduced. Voltage is then reapplied to the latch stop bar in step S1212.

As an example, in step S1210, the voltage applied to the entire circuit including the anchor bar, the components on the glass, and the latch bar stop may be reduced by 200-300V. Then, depending on factors such as window size, shutter weight, operating temperature, etc., 100-150V can then be applied to the stop via a separate circuit, as shown in step S1212. The result in this example may involve 300-400V provided to the window and 400-450V provided to the stop.

Factors such as those described above can be used to determine appropriate voltage levels and voltage level reductions for individual components. Generally, the voltage on the glass and the anchor bar voltage may be reduced by at least about 20-25%, more preferably at least about 30%, and in some cases by about 33.33%-50%. Generally, the latch stop bar voltage can be reduced by up to about at least about 10%, more preferably at least about 20%, and in some cases about 25% to 33%.

In some examples, a portion of the voltage applied to the anchor bar and/or the components on the glass may be redirected from the anchor bar and/or the components on the glass to the latch bar (e.g., in steps S1210 and S1212). ).

This may result in at least some marginal savings in terms of operating costs and battery usage. However, since "pole swapping" and charge accumulation as discussed above can occur, less energy is required to reduce switching and accumulation (especially in step-up transformers such as flyback transformers). (if not implemented), these otherwise seemingly small savings can be quite large.

FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram of an example system for controlling operation of a shutter 1112 that includes a latch stop bar 1124, according to certain example embodiments. The exemplary system shown in FIG. 13 includes a controller 1310 that includes circuitry configured to apply voltage to components on the glass of the shade 112, anchor bar 1122, and/or latch stop bar 1124. In certain exemplary embodiments, the control circuit 1310 controls the operation on the glass of the shade 112, the anchor bar 1122, and/or the latch stop bar 1124 according to one or more operations discussed with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. The component may be configured to provide a voltage to the component.

Controller 1310 is coupled to components on the glass of shade 112, anchor bar 1122, and/or latch stop bar 1124. The controller may include a power source 1320 and/or be coupled to an external power source. Power source 1320 may include an AC and/or DC power source (eg, a DC battery and/or an AC power source for charging a DC battery). Controller 1310 independently applies voltage provided by power supply 1320 to components on the glass of shade 112, anchor bar 1122 and/or latch stop bar 1124, and independently applies voltage provided by power supply 1320 to components on the glass of shade 112, anchor bar 1122 and/or latch stop bar 1124, and 1124 are configured to independently control the discharge of voltage applied to the components on the glass.

FIG. 14 illustrates an example control circuit 1350 that is part of controller 1310 and may be used in conjunction with FIG. 13, according to certain example embodiments. As shown in FIG. 14, voltage from power source 1320 is provided to different electrodes by controlling a pair of switches coupled between each electrode and power source 1320. As shown in FIG. An inductor may be connected in series between the switch and the electrode to enable energy recovery during discharge.

As shown in FIG. 14, the first pair of switches S1 and S2 are controlled to provide a voltage to the first conductive layer of the shutter 1112, and the second pair of switches S3 and S4 are controlled to provide a voltage to the first conductive layer of the shutter 1112. 1112, a third pair of switches S5 and S6 are controlled to provide a voltage to the electrical conductors of component 1104 on the glass, and a fourth The pair of switches S7 and S8 are controlled to provide a voltage to the latch stop bar 1124. In certain exemplary embodiments, a multiphase bridge circuit including low cost gate driver technology may be utilized to provide voltages to the different electrodes.

In certain exemplary embodiments, the first pair of switches S1 and S2 and the second pair of switches S3 and S4 apply a voltage to the conductive layer in the shutter 1112 and the conductive layer in the component on the glass 1104. can be controlled to provide Providing a voltage to the conductive layer may generate an electrostatic force to drive the flexible substrate of the shutter 1112 toward the closed position. Switches S7 and S8 may be controlled to provide a voltage to the conductive portion of latch stop bar 1124. Providing a voltage to the conductive portion of the latch stop bar 1124 can generate an electrostatic force to help electrostatically latch the flexible substrate of the shutter 1112 to the latch stop bar 1124.

Although not shown in FIG. 14, in certain exemplary embodiments, additional pairs of switches and inductors may be included in control circuit 1350 to separately provide voltage to anchor bar 1122.

Control circuit 1350 allows independent control of charging and discharging provided to different electrodes of the dynamic shade. The switch may be controlled to reduce the voltage applied to the anchor bar, window, and stop bar and reapply voltage to the latch stop bar or other components of the dynamic shade.

As discussed above with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 12, in certain exemplary embodiments, the voltage output to different electrodes may be reduced and reapplied (see, e.g., steps S1210 and S1212). . Control circuit 1350 allows independent control of charging and discharging provided to different electrodes of the dynamic shade. The switch may be controlled to reduce the voltage applied to the anchor bar, window and stop bar and reapply voltage to the latch stop bar or other components of the dynamic shade.

In certain exemplary embodiments, the voltage output to the electrodes may be reduced by appropriate current limiting. In certain exemplary embodiments, suitable pulse width modulation (PWM) waveforms may be used. In this regard, PWM generally requires voltage and/or current measurements to provide feedback signals to the control loop. It will be appreciated that the exact duty cycle and duration can be determined by one of ordinary skill in the art. Reducing and reapplying the voltage is not so limited and may be performed by other techniques known to those skilled in the art, such as by controlling the voltage provided by power supply 1320.

Although the description provided above suggests separate and independently controllable electrode designs, any suitable circuit design may be used in connection with the different exemplary embodiments. Certain exemplary embodiments may use circuit designs that are the same or similar to those used in connection with the techniques described above related to motorized retraction of shutters, for example. For example, an additional half-bridge output may be provided to drive the latch stop bar electrode. The circuit may be a polyphase (eg, three-phase) push-pull circuit. If the latching stop bar and motorized retraction are implemented in the same design, the circuit may be modified to include an additional half-bridge output stage (eg, a fourth half-bridge output stage). In certain exemplary embodiments, the controller may include a pair of H-bridge circuits to control charging and discharging.

Although certain exemplary embodiments are described in connection with an electrostatic latch stop bar, use of the term "bar" is not to be understood as indicating any particular structure. The shape of the "stop" may be generally elongated in certain exemplary embodiments. However, in different exemplary embodiments, the stop may include multiple stop segments. The overall shape of the stop may be generally rectangular in certain exemplary embodiments. However, different exemplary embodiments may use different shapes. For example, as will be appreciated from the above description, a receptacle can be defined on the surface of the stop facing the anchor bar from which the shutter extends, the receptacle being flat, generally semi-circular, etc. obtain. Similar to what was discussed above, the term "bar" is used in conjunction with the term "anchor bar," but the use of the term "bar" herein refers to any particular reference to the anchor. It will be understood that shapes are not generally indicated.

The IG units described herein may incorporate a low E coating on any one or more of surfaces 1, 2, 3, and 4. As mentioned above, for example, such a low-E coating can function as a conductive layer for a shade. In other exemplary embodiments, a low-E coating may be provided on another interior surface in addition to or in addition to serving the shade and a conductive layer for the shade. For example, surface 2 may be provided with a low-E coating and surface 3 may be provided with a shade. In another example, the positions of the shade and low-E coating may be reversed. In any case, a separate low-E coating may or may not be used to help manipulate the shade provided to the surface 3. In certain exemplary embodiments, the low-E coating provided on surfaces 2 and 3 may be a silver-based low-E coating. Examples of low-E coatings include U.S. Patent Nos. 9,802,860; 8,557,391; 7,998,320; No. 851, No. 7,189,458, No. 7,056,588, and No. 6,887,575, the entire contents of each of which are incorporated herein by reference. be incorporated into. Low E coatings, such as based on ITO, may be used on the inner and/or outer surfaces. See, eg, US Pat. No. 9,695,085 and US Pat. No. 9,670,092, the entire contents of each of which are incorporated herein by reference. These low E coatings may be used in conjunction with certain exemplary embodiments.

An anti-reflective coating may be provided on the major surface of the IG unit. In certain exemplary embodiments, an AR coating may be provided on each major surface that is not provided with a low-E coating and a shade. Exemplary AR coatings are described, for example, in U.S. Pat. The entire contents are incorporated herein by reference. See also US Pat. No. 9,556,066, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. These AR coatings may be used in conjunction with certain exemplary embodiments.

Exemplary embodiments described herein include, for example, interior and exterior windows for commercial and/or residential applications, skylights, doors, display cabinets such as refrigerators/freezers (e.g., doors and/or It can be incorporated into a wide variety of applications, including "wall" applications), vehicle applications, and more.

Although certain exemplary embodiments are described in connection with IG units that include two substrates, it will be appreciated that the techniques described herein may be applied with respect to so-called triple IG units. Probably. In such units, substantially parallel spaced first, second, and third substrates are separated by a first spacer system and a second spacer system, and the shade is separated by a first spacer system and a second spacer system. , adjacent any one or more of the inner surfaces of the innermost substrate and the outermost substrate, and/or adjacent one or both of the surfaces of the intermediate substrate.

Although certain exemplary embodiments are described as incorporating glass substrates (e.g., for use in the inner and outer panes of the IG units described herein), It will be appreciated that other exemplary embodiments may incorporate non-glass substrates for one or both such panes. For example, plastics, composite materials, etc. may be used. When glass substrates are used, such substrates may be heat treated (eg, heat strengthened and/or heat tempered), chemically tempered, left annealed, etc. In certain exemplary embodiments, the inner or outer substrate may be laminated to another substrate of the same or different material.

As used herein, terms such as "on" and "supported by" shall be construed to mean that two elements are immediately adjacent to each other, unless explicitly stated otherwise. It shouldn't be done. In other words, a first layer may be said to be "on" or "supported by" a second layer even if there is one or more layers between it and the second layer. .

In certain exemplary embodiments, an insulating glass (IG) unit is provided. The first base material and the second base material each have an inner main surface and an outer main surface, and the inner main surface of the first base material faces the inner main surface of the second base material. There is. The spacer system serves to maintain the first substrate and the second substrate in a substantially parallel spaced relationship with respect to each other and to define a gap therebetween. An anchor and a stop are provided, and at least a portion of the stop is electrically conductive. A dynamically controllable shade is inserted between the first substrate and the second substrate. The shade includes a first electrically conductive layer provided directly or indirectly on the inner major surface of the first substrate, and on the side of the first electrically conductive layer opposite the first substrate. A shutter comprising a first dielectric layer provided directly or indirectly on a first conductive layer and a flexible substrate supporting a second conductive layer, the shutter comprising: a shutter extendable toward the stop to a closed shutter position and retractable from the stop toward the anchor to an open shutter position. A second dielectric layer is provided directly or indirectly on the anchor-facing surface of the stop. a first voltage on the first conductive layer and the second conductive layer for generating a first electrostatic force such that the control circuit drives the flexible substrate to a shutter closed position; configured to provide a second voltage to the electrically conductive portion of the stop for generating a second electrostatic force to assist in electrostatically latching the flexible substrate to the stop; has been done.

In addition to the previous features, in certain exemplary embodiments, the stop can be an aluminum extrusion, a brass shim, or the like.

In addition to the features of either of the previous two paragraphs, in certain exemplary embodiments, the second dielectric layer may include polyimide.

In addition to the features of any of the previous three paragraphs, in certain exemplary embodiments, the first conductive layer may form part of the first electrode and the second conductive layer may form part of the first electrode. may form part of the second electrode, and the electrically conductive portion of the stop may form part of the third electrode, for example, the third electrode may form part of the first electrically conductive electrode. electrically insulated from the conductive layer and the second conductive layer, and controllable independently of the first conductive layer and the second conductive layer.

In addition to the features of any of the previous four paragraphs, in certain exemplary embodiments, the anchor-facing surface of the stop is adapted to receive an end portion of the shade when the shade is extended to the shutter closed position. Can be molded.

In addition to the features of the previous paragraph, in certain exemplary embodiments, the end portion of the shade may be rolled when the shade is extended to the shutter closed position, and the surface facing the anchor of the stop may be rolled when the shade is extended to the shutter closed position. may include a curved portion for receiving a rolled end portion of the shade.

In addition to the features of any of the previous six paragraphs, in certain exemplary embodiments, the control circuit applies a third voltage to the first conductive layer when the shutter is held in the shutter closed position. eg, the third voltage is lower than the first voltage.

In addition to the features of the previous paragraph, in certain exemplary embodiments, the control circuit is configured to provide a fourth voltage to the conductive portion of the stop when the shutter is held in the shutter closed position. It may further be configured, for example, the fourth voltage is lower than the second voltage.

In addition to the features of the previous paragraph, in certain exemplary embodiments, the fourth voltage may be higher than the third voltage.

In addition to the features of any of the previous nine paragraphs, in certain exemplary embodiments, the first voltage and the second voltage may be the same.

In addition to the features of any of the previous ten paragraphs, in certain exemplary embodiments, the control circuit includes a first half-bridge circuit coupled between the first conductive layer and a power supply; a second half-bridge circuit coupled between the second conductive layer and the power source; and a third half-bridge circuit coupled between the conductive portion of the stop and the power source. .

In addition to the features of the previous paragraph, in certain exemplary embodiments, the first half-bridge circuit and the second half-bridge circuit may be controlled to provide a first voltage and a third voltage. The half-bridge circuit may be controlled to provide the second voltage.

In addition to the features of any of the previous twelve paragraphs, in certain exemplary embodiments, the control circuit comprises a first electrostatic force for driving the flexible substrate to the shutter closed position; The second voltage may be configured to provide a second voltage to the electrically conductive portion of the stop after being generated based on the voltage.

In certain exemplary embodiments, a method of operating a dynamic shade within an insulating glass (IG) unit as described in any of the previous thirteen paragraphs is provided. A first voltage is provided to the first conductive layer and the second conductive layer to drive the flexible substrate to a shutter closed position. A second voltage is provided to the conductive portion of the stop to assist in electrostatically latching the flexible substrate to the stop. The flexible substrate is returned to the shutter open position.

In addition to the features of the previous paragraph, in certain exemplary embodiments, a third voltage may be provided to the first conductive layer when the shutter is held in the shutter closed position, e.g. The third voltage is lower than the first voltage.

In addition to the features of the previous paragraph, in certain exemplary embodiments, a fourth voltage may be provided to the conductive portion of the stop when the shutter is held in the shutter closed position, e.g. The fourth voltage is lower than the second voltage.

In addition to the features of the previous paragraph, in certain exemplary embodiments, the fourth voltage may be higher than the third voltage.

In addition to the features of either of the previous two paragraphs, in certain exemplary embodiments, the first voltage and the second voltage may be the same.

In addition to the features of any of the previous five paragraphs, in certain exemplary embodiments the stop may be an aluminum extrusion or a brass shim.

In addition to the features of any of the previous six paragraphs, in certain exemplary embodiments, the first conductive layer may form part of the first electrode and the second conductive layer may form part of the first electrode. may form part of the second electrode, and the electrically conductive portion of the stop may form part of the third electrode, for example, the third electrode may form part of the first electrically conductive electrode. electrically insulated from the conductive layer and the second conductive layer, and controllable independently of the first conductive layer and the second conductive layer.

In addition to the features of any of the previous seven paragraphs, in certain exemplary embodiments, the anchor-facing surface of the stop is adapted to receive an end portion of the shade when the shade is extended to the shutter closed position. It may also be molded.

In certain exemplary embodiments, a substrate is provided that includes an anchor and a stop, and at least a portion of the stop is electrically conductive. A dynamically controllable shade is provided thereon, the shade comprising: a first electrically conductive layer provided directly or indirectly on the substrate; is a shutter comprising, on opposite sides, a first dielectric layer provided directly or indirectly on a first conductive layer and a flexible substrate supporting a second conductive layer; , the shutter includes a shutter extendable from the anchor toward the stop to a shutter closed position and retractable from the stop toward the anchor to a shutter open position. A second dielectric layer is provided directly or indirectly on the anchor-facing surface of the stop. The first electrically conductive layer and the second electrically conductive layer and the electrically conductive portion of the stop all form a first electrostatic force for generating a first electrostatic force to drive the flexible substrate to the shutter closed position. a first voltage to the first conductive layer and the second conductive layer, and a second electrostatic force for generating a second electrostatic force to assist in electrostatically latching the flexible substrate to the stop; , a second voltage to the conductive portion of the stop.

In addition to the features of the previous paragraph, in certain exemplary embodiments, the anchor-facing surface of the stop may be shaped to receive an end portion of the shade when the shade is extended to the shutter closed position. .

In addition to the features of the previous paragraph, in certain exemplary embodiments, the end portion of the shade may be rolled when the shade is extended to the shutter closed position, and the surface facing the anchor of the stop may be rolled when the shade is extended to the shutter closed position. may include a curved portion for receiving a rolled end portion of the shade.

In addition to the features of any of the previous three paragraphs, certain exemplary embodiments may provide a third voltage to the first conductive layer when the shutter is held in the shutter closed position. For example, the third voltage may be lower than the first voltage and may provide a fourth voltage to the conductive portion of the stop when the shutter is held in the shutter closed position. For example, the fourth voltage may be lower than the second voltage and higher than the third voltage.

In addition to the features of any of the previous four paragraphs, in certain exemplary embodiments, the control circuit includes a first half-bridge circuit coupled between the first conductive layer and a power supply; a second half-bridge circuit coupled between the conductive layer of the stop and the power supply; and a third half-bridge circuit coupled between the conductive portion of the stop and the power supply; The first half-bridge circuit and the second half-bridge circuit may be controlled to provide a first voltage, and the third half-bridge circuit may be controlled to provide a second voltage. Good too.

In certain exemplary embodiments, a method of manufacturing an insulating glass (IG) unit is provided. The method includes having a first substrate and a second substrate, each of the first substrate and the second substrate having an interior major surface and an exterior major surface; the inner major surface of the material faces the inner major surface of the second substrate. Anchors and stops are provided. At least a portion of the stop is electrically conductive. A second dielectric layer is provided directly or indirectly on the anchor-facing surface of the stop. A dynamically controllable shade is provided on the first substrate and/or the second substrate, the shade being provided directly or indirectly on the interior major surface of the first substrate. a first electrically conductive layer, and a first dielectric provided directly or indirectly on the first electrically conductive layer on the side of the first electrically conductive layer opposite the first substrate; a flexible substrate supporting a layer and a second conductive layer, the shutter being extendable from an anchor toward a stop to a closed shutter position; and a shutter that is retractable to a shutter open position. The first conductive layer and the second conductive layer and the conductive portion of the stop are connected to a control circuit, the control circuit configured to: (a) drive the flexible substrate to a shutter closed position; (b) electrostatically latching the flexible substrate to the stop to generate a first electrostatic force on the first conductive layer and the second conductive layer; and is configured to provide a second voltage to the conductive portion of the stop to generate a second electrostatic force to assist in inducing the stop. The first substrate and the second substrate are connected to each other in a substantially parallel spaced relationship such that a gap is defined therebetween and the dynamically controllable shade is located in the gap. .

In addition to the features of the previous paragraph, in certain exemplary embodiments, the anchor-facing surface of the stop may be shaped to receive an end portion of the shade when the shade is extended to the shutter closed position. good.

In addition to the features of either of the previous two paragraphs, in certain exemplary embodiments, the end portion of the shade may be rolled when the shade is extended to the shutter closed position, and the end portion of the stop may be The anchor facing surface may include a curved portion for receiving the rolled end portion of the shade.

In addition to the features of any of the previous three paragraphs, certain exemplary embodiments may provide a third voltage to the first conductive layer when the shutter is held in the shutter closed position. For example, the third voltage may be lower than the first voltage and may provide a fourth voltage to the conductive portion of the stop when the shutter is held in the shutter closed position. For example, the fourth voltage may be lower than the second voltage and higher than the third voltage.

Although the invention has been described in connection with what are presently considered practical and preferred embodiments, the invention is not limited to the embodiments and/or deposition techniques disclosed, but rather the accompanying It is to be understood that the intention is to cover various modifications and equivalent arrangements falling within the spirit and scope of the claims.

Claims (31)

An insulating glass (IG) unit,
a first base material and a second base material, each of the first base material and the second base material having an inner major surface and an outer major surface; a first base material and a second base material, the inner main surface of which faces the inner main surface of the second base material;
a spacer system that assists in maintaining the first substrate and the second substrate in a substantially parallel spaced relationship with each other; a spacer system configured to define a gap between;
an anchor and stop, wherein at least a portion of the stop is electrically conductive;
a dynamically controllable shade inserted between at least the first substrate and the second substrate, the shade comprising:
a first electrically conductive layer provided directly or indirectly on the inner major surface of the first substrate;
on the side of the first electrically conductive layer opposite the first substrate, a first dielectric layer provided directly or indirectly on the first electrically conductive layer; and a second dielectric layer. A shutter including a flexible substrate supporting a conductive layer, the shutter being extendable from the anchor toward the stop to a closed shutter position, and extending from the stop toward the anchor. a dynamically controllable shade including a shutter that is retractable to a shutter open position;
a second dielectric layer provided directly or indirectly on the anchor-facing surface of the stop;
A control circuit,
a first voltage on the first conductive layer and the second conductive layer to generate a first electrostatic force to drive the flexible substrate to the shutter closed position; and a second voltage on the electrically conductive portion of the stop for generating a second electrostatic force to assist in electrostatically latching the flexible substrate to the stop; An insulating glass (IG) unit comprising: a control circuit configured to. The IG unit of claim 1, wherein the stop comprises an aluminum extrusion. The IG unit of claim 1, wherein the stop includes a brass shim. The IG unit according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the second dielectric layer contains polyimide. the first electrically conductive layer forms part of a first electrode, the second electrically conductive layer forms part of a second electrode, and the electrically conductive layer of the stop a conductive portion forming part of a third electrode, the third electrode being electrically insulated from the first conductive layer and the second conductive layer; The IG unit according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the conductive layer and the second conductive layer are independently controllable. 6. The anchor-facing surface of the stop is shaped to receive an end portion of the shade when the shade is extended to the shutter closed position. IG unit as described. The end portion of the shade is rolled when the shade is extended to the shutter closed position, and the surface of the stop facing the anchor is curved to receive the rolled end portion of the shade. The IG unit according to any one of claims 1 to 6, comprising: the control circuit is further configured to provide a third voltage to the first conductive layer when the shutter is held in the shutter closed position, the third voltage comprising: The IG unit according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the IG unit is lower than the first voltage. the control circuit is further configured to provide a fourth voltage to the conductive portion of the stop when the shutter is held in the shutter closed position, the fourth voltage being , the IG unit according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the voltage is lower than the second voltage. The IG unit according to claim 9, wherein the fourth voltage is higher than the third voltage. The IG unit according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the first voltage and the second voltage are the same. The control circuit includes a first half-bridge circuit coupled between the first conductive layer and the power supply, and a second half-bridge circuit coupled between the second conductive layer and the power supply. IG unit according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a bridge circuit and a third half-bridge circuit coupled between the electrically conductive portion of the stop and the power source. The first half-bridge circuit and the second half-bridge circuit are controlled to provide the first voltage, and the third half-bridge circuit is controlled to provide the second voltage. The IG unit according to claim 12. The control circuit is configured to apply a voltage to the conductive portion of the stop after the first electrostatic force for driving the flexible substrate to the shutter closed position is generated based on the first voltage. IG unit according to any one of claims 1 to 13, configured to provide the second voltage. A base material,
an anchor and stop, wherein at least a portion of the stop is electrically conductive;
a dynamically controllable shade provided on the substrate, the shade comprising:
a first electrically conductive layer provided directly or indirectly on the substrate;
on the side of the first conductive layer opposite the substrate, a first dielectric layer provided directly or indirectly on the first conductive layer; and a second conductive layer. a flexible substrate supporting a shutter, the shutter being extendable from the anchor toward the stop to a shutter closed position, and extending from the stop toward the anchor to a shutter open position. a dynamically controllable shade, including a shutter, retractable up to
a second dielectric layer provided directly or indirectly on the anchor-facing surface of the stop;
The first conductive layer, the second conductive layer, and the conductive portion of the stop all include:
a first voltage on the first conductive layer and the second conductive layer to generate a first electrostatic force to drive the flexible substrate to the shutter closed position; and a second voltage on the electrically conductive portion of the stop for generating a second electrostatic force to assist in electrostatically latching the flexible substrate to the stop; A substrate connectable to a control circuit configured to. 16. The substrate of claim 15, wherein a surface of the stop facing the anchor is shaped to receive an end portion of the shade when the shade is extended to the shutter closed position. The end portion of the shade is rolled when the shade is extended to the shutter closed position, and the anchor-facing surface of the stop is adapted to receive the rolled end portion of the shade. 17. The substrate of claim 16, comprising a curved portion. a third voltage can be provided to the first conductive layer when the shutter is held in the shutter closed position, the third voltage being lower than the first voltage;
a fourth voltage can be provided to the conductive portion of the stop when the shutter is held in the shutter closed position, the fourth voltage being lower than the second voltage; The substrate according to any one of claims 15 to 17, which is higher than the third voltage. The control circuit includes a first half-bridge circuit coupled between the first conductive layer and the power supply, and a second half-bridge circuit coupled between the second conductive layer and the power supply. a bridge circuit; and a third half-bridge circuit coupled between the conductive portion of the stop and the power source, the first half-bridge circuit and the second half-bridge circuit comprising: A base according to any one of claims 15 to 18, wherein the base is controlled to provide the first voltage, and the third half-bridge circuit is controlled to provide the second voltage. Material. A method of manufacturing an insulating glass (IG) unit, the method comprising:
a first base material and a second base material, each of the first base material and the second base material having an inner main surface and an outer main surface; the inner main surface of the material faces the inner main surface of the second base material;
providing an anchor and a stop, wherein at least a portion of the stop is electrically conductive, and a second dielectric layer is provided directly or indirectly on the anchor-facing surface of the stop; to provide, provide, and
providing a dynamically controllable shade on the first substrate and/or the second substrate, the shade comprising:
a first electrically conductive layer provided directly or indirectly on the inner major surface of the first substrate;
on the side of the first electrically conductive layer opposite the first substrate, a first dielectric layer provided directly or indirectly on the first electrically conductive layer; and a second dielectric layer. A shutter including a flexible substrate supporting a conductive layer, the shutter being extendable from the anchor toward the stop to a closed shutter position, and extending from the stop toward the anchor. providing a shutter, the shutter being retractable to a shutter open position;
connecting the first conductive layer and the second conductive layer and the conductive portion of the stop to a control circuit, the control circuit comprising: (a) connecting the flexible substrate; (b) a first voltage on the first conductive layer and the second conductive layer to generate a first electrostatic force to drive the shutter to the closed position; and (b) a first voltage on the first conductive layer and the second conductive layer. a second voltage to the electrically conductive portion of the stop for generating a second electrostatic force to assist in electrostatically latching a substrate to the stop; being connected, and
the first substrate and the second substrate in a substantially parallel spaced relationship such that a gap is defined therebetween and the dynamically controllable shade is located in the gap; A method including connecting to each other. 21. The method of claim 20, wherein a surface of the stop facing the anchor is shaped to receive an end portion of the shade when the shade is extended to the shutter closed position. The end portion of the shade is rolled when the shade is extended to the shutter closed position, and the anchor-facing surface of the stop is adapted to receive the rolled end portion of the shade. 22. The method of claim 21, including a curved section. a third voltage can be provided to the first conductive layer when the shutter is held in the shutter closed position, the third voltage being lower than the first voltage;
a fourth voltage can be provided to the conductive portion of the stop when the shutter is held in the shutter closed position, the fourth voltage being lower than the second voltage; A method according to any one of claims 20 to 22, wherein the voltage is higher than the third voltage. A method of operating a dynamic shade within an insulated glass (IG) unit, the method comprising:
having the IG unit according to any one of claims 1 to 14;
providing the first voltage to the first conductive layer and the second conductive layer to drive the flexible substrate to the shutter closed position;
providing the second voltage to the conductive portion of the stop to assist in electrostatically latching the flexible substrate to the stop;
returning the flexible substrate to the shutter open position. further comprising providing a third voltage to the first conductive layer when the shutter is held in the shutter closed position, the third voltage being lower than the first voltage. 25. The method of claim 24. further comprising providing a fourth voltage to the conductive portion of the stop when the shutter is held in the shutter closed position, the fourth voltage being greater than the second voltage. 26. The method of claim 25, wherein the method is low. 27. The method of claim 26, wherein the fourth voltage is higher than the third voltage. 27. The method of claim 26, wherein the first voltage and the second voltage are the same. 25. The method of claim 24, wherein the stop is an aluminum extrusion or a brass shim. the first electrically conductive layer forms part of a first electrode, the second electrically conductive layer forms part of a second electrode, and the electrically conductive layer of the stop a conductive portion forming part of a third electrode, the third electrode being electrically insulated from the first conductive layer and the second conductive layer; 25. The method of claim 24, wherein the conductive layer and the second conductive layer are independently controllable. 25. The method of claim 24, wherein a surface of the stop facing the anchor is shaped to receive an end portion of the shade when the shade is extended to the shutter closed position.

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