ELECTROCHROMIC EDGE ISOLATION-INTERCONNECT SYSTEM, PROCESS AND DEVICE FOR ITS MANUFACTURE

摘要

An electrochromic device for use in the field of optical lenses, such as eyewear or camera lenses. The device may also be used for windows, displays, mirrors or capacitors. The device comprises a substrate (12) having an expanse (18) and an edge region. A first electrode layer (28) is coated on the expanse and extends substantially across the expanse and into the edge region. An electrochromic layer (30) is coated on the first electrode so that the first electrode layer physically isolates the electrochromic layer from the substrate. A second electrode layer (32) is coated on the electrochromic layer, so that the electrochromic layer physically isolates the second electrode layer from the first electrode layer. A first contact (46) is electrically connected to the first electrode layer. An isolative barrier (50) is coated on the first electrode layer in the edge region. A second contact (48) is electrically connected to the second electrode layer. The isolative barrier electrically isolates the first contact from the second electrode layer and electrically isolates the second contact from the first electrode layer. In another embodiment, the invention comprises an edge-isolation channel formed in the edge region of the substrate. In another embodiment, the invention comprises a system including insulative material and a channel to achieve edge-wise electrical isolation and interconnection between the layers. The invention may also comprise a conductive elastomeric pad for electrically connecting a contact and a conductor. The invention also comprises a process for manufacturing an electrochromic device, the process including the steps of using a release agent. The invention also comprises a device and an associated process, for applying coating material to the perimeter of an eccentric substrate. The invention also comprises a process of mass producing large substrates with layers coated thereon such that the substrates can be stored, and thereafter cut to custom sizes. A channel is then cut in the custom-sized device to permit edge-wise electrical isolation and connection to power the device.