Electrochromic display device

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This patent describes an advanced electrochromic display device capable of displaying sharp images that can change color in response to electrical signals or a combination of electrical signals and applied pressure. It includes multiple layers, notably a segmented ionically conducting layer, an electrochromic layer, and an integrated piezoresistive layer. The device operates in two modes: in the first, image display is controlled solely by electrical input; in the second, image activation requires both electrical input and mechanical pressure, thanks to the piezoresistive layer. This integrated design overcomes blurring and off-state non-uniformity found in previous electrochromic displays.

Use CasesContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Interactive advertising displays that light up or change only when touched or pressed.
• Smart signage or labels that reveal information when a user applies pressure (e.g., for tamper-evident packaging).
• Electronic shelf labels that are activated by touch in supermarkets or warehouses.
• Anti-counterfeiting elements for documents, tickets, or products which show information only when pressed and supplied with voltage.
• Wearable electronics where display color or information changes with touch or customizable input.
• Automotive displays where certain dashboard indicators are activated by press.
• Low-power switchable privacy panels or windows requiring both electrical signal and mechanical interaction.

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Sharp image display without blurring, ensuring high clarity and definition.
• Uniform color appearance in the off-state, improving aesthetics and information concealment.
• Dual-mode activation (voltage-only or voltage + pressure) for expanded functionality and interactive features.
• Integrated pressure-sensing eliminates need for separate sensors, simplifying manufacturing and reducing cost.
• Printable fabrication methods compatible with mass production and flexible substrates.
• Potential for robust, tamper-evident, or user-interactive displays enhancing safety, security, or engagement.
• Low-power operation compared to traditional display technologies, extending battery life in portable or IoT applications.

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Inventors & Applicants

Patent Abstract

An electrochromic display device 250 includes a transparent substrate 202, a first electrically conducting layer 204, at least one electrochromic layer 206 is provided on the first electrically conducting layer, an ionically conducting layer 216 comprising segments 217 is provided on the electrochromic layer and a piezoresistive layer 222 including electrically conducting particles 224 is provided on the second electrically conducting layer 210, a third electrically conducting layer 226 is provided on the piezoresistive layer. The electrochromic display device displays an image in two different modes; in a first mode, an electrical potential is applied across the first and second electrically conducting layers; in a second mode, an electrical potential is applied across the first and third electrically conducting layers and simultaneously pressure is applied in a direction perpendicular to the plane of the piezoelectric layer, causing particles 224 to come close to one another and create an electrical connection between the second and third conducting layers.