Gradation-Tint Smart Window

Dimming glass (20 cm x 20 cm) whose darkness can be varied from a completely darkened state to a completely clear state.
Photo source
NIMS

Date: 17 November 2017

NIMS, Waseda University and Tama Art University developed together smart glass capable of producing various shades on its surface.

NIMS, Waseda University and Tama Art University developed together smart glass capable of producing various shades on its surface. Unlike the conventional types, the newly developed tinting smart glass allows users to easily change the shaded area of a window.

For example, a user would be able to change the shaded area of a window in accordance with the elevation of the sun. The technology may be applicable to various types of windows, including those of automobiles and buildings, enabling them to offer both shade and clear visibility simultaneously.

Dimming glass (20 cm x 20 cm) whose darkness can be varied from a completely darkened state (left) to a completely clear state (right). Credit: Image courtesy of NIMS
Dimming glass (20 cm x 20 cm) whose darkness can be varied from a completely darkened state (left) to a completely clear state (right).
Credit: Image courtesy of NIMS

Electrochromic glass capable of blocking sunlight in response to electricity has been used in airplane windows in recent years. However, because these windows become shaded uniformly across their entire surface, once they are darkened, passengers are unable to enjoy any exterior views.

The joint research group recently developed a tinting smart glass that can produce gradational shade (Fig. 1) using electrochromic polymers (metallo-supramolecular polymers) studied by the group. The darkened part of the glass surface can be changed simply by applying a low voltage (3 V) for different durations.

The desired shade can be maintained even after the voltage is reduced to turn off the current. In addition, the shading and transparency can be reversed by reversing the electric current, allowing users to easily change the darkened area of the glass surface as desired.

In the future, we plan to direct our research toward practical applications of this technology, including windows in vehicles (e.g., automobiles and airplanes) and in buildings.

This research was conducted jointly by a NIMS research group led by Masayoshi Higuchi (leader of the Electronic Functional Macromolecules Group, Research Center for Functional Materials); Research Organization for Nano & Life Innovation, Waseda University, and Faculty of Art and Design, Tama Art University.

This study was carried out in conjunction with a research project entitled “Ultrafast, ultralow-power, ultralarge-area electrochromism” (Masayoshi Higuchi, principal investigator) in the research area “Innovative nano-electronics through interdisciplinary collaboration among material, device and system layers” (Takayasu Sakurai, research supervisor) funded by the JST Strategic Basic Research Programs (specifically the CREST program).

600450 Gradation-Tint Smart Window glassonweb.com

Others also read

Vitro’s Glass Education Insider webinar series offers a convenient, engaging way to start earning your annual Continuing Education (CE) credits, no matter where you’re working.
The logo and brand identity reflect the bold, energetic and forward-looking culture of the company.
On February 10th, RCN was pleased to open their doors to the students of two classes of the middle school IC NOVIGLIO-CASARILE, from the province of Milan. 
The Fenestration and Glazing Industry Alliance (FGIA) announces the launch of a new online home for fenestration safety resources created by, and for, FGIA members.
An international team of scientists has discovered new insights into the physics of vitrification – the process by which glass forms.
Take your glazing knowledge to the next level in Las Vegas!

Add new comment

From industry

NEWS RELATED PRODUCTS

Thompson Innovative Glass