Electrochromic transparency incorporating security system
US6535126B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 15, 2000 |
| Grant date | Mar 18, 2003 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 28, 2020 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG02F1/163
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
An electrochromic window assembly includes a security system for monitoring breakage of the electrochromic window assembly. Control circuitry is connected to the electrochromic window assembly for monitoring an electrical characteristic of one or more conductive coatings within the electrochromic window assembly, such as electrical resistance. Upon detecting a change in the electrical resistance, such as that caused by a break in one or more conductive coating, an alarm signal is generated and is sent to an alarm trigger circuit for activating an alarm. A method for monitoring penetration or breakage of an electrochromic window assembly is also provided, which method involves applying electrical activation to an electrochromic assembly and monitoring for a change in an electrical characteristic based on the applied electrical potential. Electrochromic window assemblies incorporating security alarm features in accordance with the present invention are particularly useful in automobile applications.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.