JP2024052085A - Electrochromic sheet, eyeglass lenses and eyeglasses - Google Patents

Abstract

[Problem] To provide an electrochromic sheet that does not impair the aesthetic appearance and can suppress deterioration of the auxiliary electrodes. [Solution] An electrochromic sheet 150 includes a first substrate, a second substrate, an electrochromic element 60 forming a colored region 70, a sealing portion, a first auxiliary electrode 15, and a second auxiliary electrode 16. The first auxiliary electrode 15 has a first opposing electrode portion 15A that extends along a part of the outer periphery 70a of the colored region 70. The second auxiliary electrode 16 has a second opposing electrode portion 16A that extends along another part of the outer periphery 70a of the colored region 70. The second opposing electrode portion 16A faces the first opposing electrode portion 15A. The width of a sealing region 56 of the sealing portion, which is a region from the outer periphery 70a of the colored region 70 to the outer periphery 30a of the eyeglass lens 30, is 1 mm or more and 3 mm or less. [Selected Figure] FIG.

Description

The present invention relates to electrochromic sheets, eyeglass lenses, and eyeglasses.

Electrochromism is a phenomenon in which an oxidation-reduction reaction occurs when a voltage is applied, causing a reversible change in color. An electrochromic element is an element that uses an electrochromic material that exhibits electrochromism (see, for example, Patent Document 1).
The electrochromic element includes, for example, an electrochromic layer, a transparent electrode, and an auxiliary electrode. The electrochromic layer develops or loses color in response to a voltage. The transparent electrode is electrically connected to the electrochromic layer. The auxiliary electrode is made of a metal or the like. The auxiliary electrode is an opaque electrode having a lower electrical resistance than the transparent electrode.
An electrochromic sheet having an electrochromic element can be applied to eyewear such as sunglasses, for example.

JP 2017-167317 A

The auxiliary electrode is required to be prevented from deteriorating due to oxidation, etc. For this reason, electrochromic sheets are sometimes provided with a structure to protect the auxiliary electrode. However, it is not easy to protect the auxiliary electrode without compromising the aesthetic appearance of the electrochromic sheet.

One aspect of the present invention aims to provide an electrochromic sheet, eyeglass lenses, and eyeglasses that do not impair aesthetic appearance and can suppress deterioration of the auxiliary electrode.

[1] An electrochromic sheet for use in eyeglass lenses, comprising a first substrate, a second substrate disposed opposite the first substrate, an electrochromic element disposed between the first substrate and the second substrate and forming a colored region whose color changes upon application of a voltage, an insulating sealing portion that partitions the colored region, a first auxiliary electrode electrically connected to the electrochromic element, and a second auxiliary electrode electrically connected to the electrochromic element, wherein the electrochromic element is a first transparent electrode electrically connected to the first auxiliary electrode, a second transparent electrode electrically connected to the second auxiliary electrode, and a first transparent electrode electrically connected to the second auxiliary electrode, and a second transparent electrode electrically connected to the first auxiliary electrode. An electrochromic sheet having one or more electrochromic layers whose color changes depending on the thickness of the transparent electrode, the first auxiliary electrode has a first opposing electrode portion that has a lower electrical resistance than the first transparent electrode and extends along a part of the outer periphery of the colored region, the second auxiliary electrode has a second opposing electrode portion that has a lower electrical resistance than the second transparent electrode and extends along another part of the outer periphery of the colored region, the second opposing electrode portion is on the opposite side of the colored region from the first opposing electrode portion and faces the first opposing electrode portion, and the width of the sealing portion, which is the region from the outer periphery of the colored region to the outer periphery of the eyeglass lens, is 1 mm or more and 3 mm or less.

[2] The electrochromic sheet according to [1], wherein the plurality of electrochromic layers include a first electrochromic layer electrically connected to the first transparent electrode and a second electrochromic layer electrically connected to the second transparent electrode, the electrochromic element further includes an electrolyte layer filled between the first electrochromic layer and the second electrochromic layer, the first electrochromic layer contains a material whose color changes due to an oxidation reaction, and the second electrochromic layer contains a material whose color changes due to a reduction reaction.

[3] The electrochromic sheet according to [1] or [2], in which, in a plan view, the distance between the first and second opposing electrode sections and the outer periphery of the colored region is 0.25 mm or more, and, in a plan view, the distance between the first and second opposing electrode sections and the outer periphery of the eyeglass lens is 0.25 mm or more.

[4] A lens for glasses comprising the electrochromic sheet described in any one of [1] to [3].

[5] Glasses equipped with the eyeglass lens described in [4].

According to one aspect of the present invention, it is possible to provide an electrochromic sheet, a lens for glasses, and glasses that can suppress deterioration of the auxiliary electrode without impairing the aesthetic appearance.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing sunglasses using an electrochromic sheet according to an embodiment. 1A to 1C are diagrams illustrating a method for manufacturing a lens using an electrochromic sheet according to an embodiment. FIG. 2 is a plan view showing an electrochromic sheet. FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram showing the AA cross section shown in FIG. FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing a cross section of an electrochromic element. FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view showing an electrochromic sheet. FIG. 2 is a plan view of a portion of an electrochromic sheet. FIG. 2 is a plan view of a portion of an electrochromic sheet.

The electrochromic sheet, eyeglass lenses, and eyeglasses of the embodiments are described in detail below.

<Sunglasses>
1 is a perspective view showing sunglasses using an electrochromic sheet according to an embodiment. When the sunglasses are worn on a user's head, the outer surface of the lens is the front surface. The surface of the lens opposite to the front surface is the back surface. Sunglasses are an example of spectacles.

As shown in FIG. 1, sunglasses 100 include a frame 20 and a pair of lenses 30 (spectacle lenses). In this specification, "lenses (spectacle lenses)" includes both lenses that have a light-gathering function and lenses that do not have a light-gathering function. Lenses 30 are also called translucent bodies.

The frame 20 includes a pair of rim portions 21, a bridge portion 22, a pair of temple portions 23, and a pair of nose pad portions 24. The frame 20 is worn on the head of a user. The frame 20 positions the lenses 30 in front of the eyes of the user.
The rim portions 21 are formed in a ring shape. The pair of rim portions 21 correspond to the right and left eyes of the user, respectively.

The bridge portion 22 connects the pair of rim portions 21 to each other. The bridge portion 22 is located in front of the upper part of the user's nose when the glasses are worn on the user's head.
The temple portion 23 is connected to the rim portion 21 at a position opposite to the position to which the bridge portion 22 is connected. The temple portion 23 is hung on the user's ear when the glasses are worn on the user's head.

The temple portion 23 has a switch 25 and a battery 26. The switch 25 is exposed on the outer surface of the temple portion 23. The switch 25 is electrically connected to a connection terminal provided on the lens 30 via wiring. The switch 25 can switch between applying a positive voltage, applying a negative voltage, and not applying a voltage to the electrochromic element 60, for example. The battery 26 is built into the temple portion 23. The battery 26 is electrically connected to a connection terminal provided on the lens 30 via wiring.

The nose pad portion 24 is formed at a position on each rim portion 21 that corresponds to the user's nose. The nose pad portion 24 abuts against the user's nose. The nose pad portion 24 stabilizes the wearing state of the sunglasses 100.

The frame 20 may be made of, for example, a metal material, a resin material, or the like. The shape of the frame 20 is not limited to the illustrated example, as long as it can be worn on the user's head.

Lenses 30 (eyeglass lenses) are attached to each rim portion 21. Lenses 30 are optically transparent. Lenses 30 are in the shape of a curved convex plate that protrudes outward. Lenses 30 are attached to the inside of rim portions 21. A user can view external information through lenses 30. Lenses 30 can reversibly develop and decolor by switching the application of voltage to electrochromic element 60 (see FIG. 4).

The lens 30 includes a curved sheet 120 and a resin layer 35 (see FIG. 2(D)). The lens 30 includes a pair of connection terminals. The pair of connection terminals are provided at positions corresponding to the connection portions where the bridge portion 22 and the temple portion 23 are connected to the rim portion 21, respectively.

The resin layer 35 has optical transparency. The resin layer 35 is located on the rear side of the lens 30 with respect to the curved sheet 120. The resin layer 35 may have a light collecting function. The resin layer 35 having the light collecting function provides the lens 30 with the light collecting function.
Examples of the constituent material of the resin layer 35 include curable resins such as thermoplastic resins, thermosetting resins, and photocurable resins. As the constituent material of the resin layer 35, one of these may be used, or two or more of them may be used in combination.

If the resin material constituting the resin layer 35 is of the same type or is the same as the surface material of the curved sheet 120 (for example, the material of the first substrate 11 ), the adhesion between the resin layer 35 and the curved sheet 120 can be increased.
When the material of the resin layer 35 and the surface material of the curved sheet 120 are the same or the same, the refractive index difference between the resin layer 35 and the curved sheet 120 can be set low. Therefore, the light transmittance of the lens 30 can be increased. The refractive index difference between the resin layer 35 and the curved sheet 120 is preferably 0.2 or less, and more preferably 0.1 or less.

The thickness of the resin layer 35 is preferably, for example, 1.5 mm or more and 20 mm or less. By setting the thickness of the resin layer 35 within this range, it is possible to achieve both high strength and lightweight of the lens 30.

The curved sheet 120 is an electrochromic sheet 150 that has a curved shape. The curved sheet 120 is bonded to the outer surface (curved convex surface) of the resin layer 35. The curved sheet 120 has a curved shape that follows the outer surface (curved convex surface) of the resin layer 35.

Since the sunglasses 100 include the curved sheet 120, coloring and decoloring can be reversibly performed at any desired timing by switching the voltage applied to the electrochromic element 60 (see FIG. 4).
The sunglasses 100 have a frame 20, but the shape of the frame is not particularly limited. For example, a frame without a rim may be used. The glasses may have a frameless structure from the viewpoint of fashionability, lightness, etc.

In this embodiment, the lens 30 is applied to sunglasses 100, but the application of the lens is not limited to this. The application of the lens may be, for example, goggles, etc.

<Lens manufacturing method>
2A to 2D are diagrams illustrating a method for manufacturing a lens using the electrochromic sheet of the embodiment.
[1] As shown in Fig. 2(A), an element-encapsulating connecting sheet 110 (electrochromic sheet 150) is prepared. The element-encapsulating connecting sheet 110 has a first substrate 11, a second substrate 12, a sealing portion 55, and an electrochromic element 60 (see Fig. 4). A protective film 50 (or a masking film) is attached to both sides of the element-encapsulating connecting sheet 110 to obtain a connecting sheet laminate 210.

[2] As shown in FIG. 2(B), the connecting sheet laminate 210 is punched in the thickness direction to obtain a circularly diced element laminate 250.

[3] As shown in FIG. 2(C), the singulated element stack 250 is bent under heating to form the curved element stack 250 into the curved element stack 220. The element stack 220 includes a curved sheet 120 (electrochromic sheet 150) and protective films 50 attached to both sides of the curved sheet 120.

[4] The protective film 50 is peeled off from the curved sheet 120. As shown in FIG. 2(D), a resin layer 35 (molded layer) is formed on the curved concave surface of the curved sheet 120 by insert injection molding or the like using a mold 40. This results in a lens 30 (eyeglass lens) comprising the curved sheet 120 and the resin layer 35. The lens 30 is shaped to correspond to the rim portion 21 by processing such as trimming and cutting (see FIG. 1). The lens 30 is attached to the rim portion 21.

<Electrochromic sheet>
Fig. 3 is a plan view showing the electrochromic sheet 150. Fig. 4 is a schematic diagram showing a cross section taken along line AA shown in Fig. 3. Fig. 5 is a schematic diagram showing a cross section of the electrochromic element 60.

As shown in FIG. 4, the electrochromic sheet 150 includes a first substrate 11, a second substrate 12, a sealing portion 55, an electrochromic element 60, a first conductive portion 17, a second conductive portion 18, a first auxiliary electrode 15, and a second auxiliary electrode 16.

The first substrate 11 and the second substrate 12 are the outermost layers of the electrochromic sheet 150. The second substrate 12 is disposed opposite the first substrate 11. The first substrate 11 and the second substrate 12 function as protective layers that protect the electrochromic elements 60 and the like. The first substrate 11 and the second substrate 12 are transparent. The first substrate 11 and the second substrate 12 contain, for example, a transparent resin (base resin) having thermoplasticity as the main material.

Examples of transparent resins constituting the first substrate 11 and the second substrate 12 include acrylic resins, polystyrene resins, polyethylene resins, polypropylene resins, polyester resins (polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyethylene naphthalate (PEN), etc.), polycarbonate resins, polyamide resins, cycloolefin resins, vinyl chloride resins, polyacetal resins, triacetyl cellulose (TAC), etc. As the transparent resin, one of these may be used, or two or more may be used in combination. As the transparent resin, polycarbonate resins or polyamide resins are preferable.

Polycarbonate-based resins have high transparency (translucency), mechanical strength (rigidity, etc.), and heat resistance, and therefore can improve the transparency, impact resistance, and heat resistance of the first substrate 11 and the second substrate 12. As the polycarbonate-based resin, aromatic polycarbonate-based resins are preferable. Aromatic polycarbonate-based resins have aromatic rings in their main chains. By using aromatic polycarbonate-based resins, it is possible to obtain first substrate 11 and second substrate 12 with excellent strength.

Aromatic polycarbonate resins are synthesized, for example, by an interfacial polycondensation reaction between bisphenol and phosgene, or an ester exchange reaction between bisphenol and diphenyl carbonate. Examples of bisphenols include bisphenol (modified bisphenol), bisphenol A, etc., which are the origin of the repeating units of polycarbonate shown in formula (1A).

（式（１Ａ）中、Ｘは、炭素数１～１８のアルキル基、芳香族基または環状脂肪族基である。ＲａおよびＲｂは、それぞれ独立して、炭素数１～１２のアルキル基である。ｍおよびｎは、それぞれ０～４の整数である。ｐは、繰り返し単位の数である。）

(In formula (1A), X is an alkyl group having 1 to 18 carbon atoms, an aromatic group, or a cyclic aliphatic group. Ra and Rb are each independently an alkyl group having 1 to 12 carbon atoms. m and n are each an integer of 0 to 4. p is the number of repeating units.)

Examples of bisphenols that are the source of the repeating units of the polycarbonate represented by formula (1A) include 4,4'-(pentane-2,2-diyl)diphenol, 4,4'-(pentane-3,3-diyl)diphenol, 4,4'-(butane-2,2-diyl)diphenol, 1,1'-(cyclohexanediyl)diphenol, 2-cyclohexyl-1,4-bis(4-hydroxyphenyl)benzene, 2,3-biscyclohexyl-1,4-bis(4-hydroxyphenyl)benzene, 1,1'-bis(4-hydroxy-3-methylphenyl)cyclohexane, and 2,2'-bis(4-hydroxy-3-methylphenyl)propane. As the bisphenol, one of these may be used, or two or more may be used in combination.

It is preferable that the polycarbonate resin is mainly composed of a bisphenol-type polycarbonate resin having a skeleton derived from bisphenol. By using a bisphenol-type polycarbonate resin, the first substrate 11 and the second substrate 12 exhibit excellent strength.

The first substrate 11 and the second substrate 12 may be colorless or colored. The colors of the first substrate 11 and the second substrate 12 are not particularly limited and may be red, blue, yellow, or the like.
The colors of the first substrate 11 and the second substrate 12 can be selected by incorporating a dye or pigment into the first substrate 11 and the second substrate 12. Examples of the dye include acid dyes, direct dyes, reactive dyes, and basic dyes. As the dye, one of these may be used, or two or more may be used in combination.

The first substrate 11 and the second substrate 12 may contain additives such as antioxidants, fillers, plasticizers, light stabilizers, ultraviolet absorbers, heat absorbers, and flame retardants, as necessary. The first substrate 11 and the second substrate 12 may be stretched or unstretched.

The refractive index at a wavelength of 589 nm of the first substrate 11 and the second substrate 12 is preferably 1.3 or more and 1.8 or less, and more preferably 1.4 or more and 1.65 or less. By setting the refractive index of the first substrate 11 and the second substrate 12 in this range, the function of the electrochromic element 60 can be improved.
The average thickness of first substrate 11 and second substrate 12 is, for example, 0.05 mm or more and 10.0 mm or less, and preferably 0.3 mm or more and 5.0 mm or less.

The electrochromic element 60 is a light-emitting element that can switch between coloring (coloring) and decoloring at any timing by switching the switch 25 (see FIG. 1) ON/OFF. The electrochromic element 60 (more specifically, the main portion 61) forms a colored region 70 that is partitioned by the sealing portion 55. The electrochromic element 60 is provided between the first substrate 11 and the second substrate 12.

As shown in FIG. 5, the electrochromic element 60 includes a first transparent electrode 13 , a first electrochromic layer 63 , an electrolyte layer 65 , a second electrochromic layer 64 , and a second transparent electrode 14 .
The first electrochromic layer 63, the electrolyte layer 65, and the second electrochromic layer 64 constitute a main portion 61. The main portion 61 forms a colored region 70. The colored region 70 changes color when a voltage is applied.

The first transparent electrode 13 is laminated on the inner surface of the first substrate 11. The second transparent electrode 14 is laminated on the inner surface of the second substrate 12.
The first transparent electrode 13 and the second transparent electrode 14 are electrodes that supply or receive electrons when a positive voltage or a negative voltage is applied to the electrochromic element 60 by switching the switch 25 (see FIG. 1).

The first transparent electrode 13 and the second transparent electrode 14 have transparency. The constituent material of the first transparent electrode 13 and the second transparent electrode 14 is a conductive material. The constituent material of the first transparent electrode 13 and the second transparent electrode 14 may be, for example, ITO (indium tin oxide), FTO (F-doped tin oxide), ATO (antimony tin oxide), IZO (indium zinc oxide), In ₂ O ₃ , SnO ₂ , Sb-containing SnO ₂ , Al-containing ZnO, or other oxides. As the constituent material of the first transparent electrode 13 and the second transparent electrode 14, one of these may be used, or two or more may be used in combination.

The thickness of the first transparent electrode 13 and the second transparent electrode 14 is determined so as to obtain the electrical resistance value necessary for the oxidation-reduction reaction of the electrochromic layers 63, 64. When ITO is used as the constituent material of the first transparent electrode 13 and the second transparent electrode 14, the average thickness of the first transparent electrode 13 and the second transparent electrode 14 is, for example, independently set to 50 nm or more and 200 nm or less, preferably 50 nm or more and 150 nm or less, and more preferably 60 nm or more and 130 nm or less.

The first electrochromic layer 63 (electrochromic layer) is a layer that changes color. The first electrochromic layer 63 contains, as a main material, a material that changes color through an oxidation reaction. Examples of materials that change color through an oxidation reaction include polymers of radical polymerizable compounds having a triarylamine structure, bisacridan compounds, triphenylamine, benzidine, Prussian blue complexes, and nickel oxide. As the material that changes color through an oxidation reaction, one of these may be used, or two or more may be used in combination.

Examples of polymers of radically polymerizable compounds having a triarylamine structure include those described in JP-A-2016-45464 and JP-A-2020-138925.
An example of a Prussian blue type complex is Fe(III) ₄ [Fe(II)(CN) ₆ ] ₃ .

Among these, a polymer of a radically polymerizable compound having a triarylamine structure is preferable. By using this polymer, an electrochromic element that can be operated at a constant voltage, has excellent durability against repeated use, and has a high contrast can be obtained.
The polymer of the radical polymerizable compound having a triarylamine structure may contain another radical polymerizable compound different from the radical polymerizable compound having a triarylamine structure. The radical polymerizable compound having a triarylamine structure may be crosslinked with the other radical polymerizable compound.

The average thickness of the first electrochromic layer 63 is preferably 0.1 μm or more and 30 μm or less, and more preferably 0.4 μm or more and 10 μm or less.

The second electrochromic layer 64 (electrochromic layer) is a layer that changes color. The second electrochromic layer 64 contains, as its main material, a material that is colored by a reduction reaction. It is preferable to use a material of the same color tone as the first electrochromic layer 63 as the material that is colored by a reduction reaction. This makes it possible to increase the maximum color density and therefore improve the contrast. A material of a different color tone from the first electrochromic layer 63 may be used as the material that is colored by a reduction reaction. In this case, color mixing is possible.

By coloring both electrochromic layers 63, 64, the redox dyes of the electrochromic layers 63, 64 can be colored simultaneously. This improves the color development speed. By coloring both electrochromic layers 63, 64, the driving voltage of the electrochromic element 60 can be reduced. This improves the repetitive durability of the electrochromic element 60.

Materials that are colored by a reduction reaction include, for example, inorganic electrochromic compounds, organic electrochromic compounds, conductive polymers, etc. As a material that is colored by a reduction reaction, one of these may be used, or two or more may be used in combination.

Examples of inorganic electrochromic compounds include tungsten oxide, molybdenum oxide, iridium oxide, and titanium oxide. Among these, tungsten oxide is preferred. Tungsten oxide has a low reduction potential and therefore a low color development/discoloration potential. Tungsten oxide is an inorganic material and therefore has excellent durability.

Examples of organic electrochromic compounds include low molecular weight organic electrochromic compounds such as azobenzene, anthraquinone, diarylethene, dihydroprene, dipyridine, styryl, styrylspiropyran, spirooxazine, spirothiopyran, thioindigo, tetrathiafulvalene, terephthalic acid, triphenylmethane, triphenylamine, naphthopyran, viologen, pyrazoline, phenazine, phenylenediamine, phenoxazine, phenothiazine, phthalocyanine, fluoran, fulgide, benzopyran, and metallocene. Among these, viologen and dipyridine compounds are preferred. Viologen and dipyridine compounds have a low color development and fading potential and exhibit good color values.

Examples of viologen compounds include those described in Japanese Patent No. 3955641 and Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2007-171781. Examples of dipyridine compounds include those described in Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2007-171781 and Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2008-116718.

Examples of conductive polymers include polypyrrole, polythiophene, polyaniline, and derivatives thereof.

The average thickness of the second electrochromic layer 64 is preferably 0.2 μm or more and 5.0 μm or less, and more preferably 1.0 μm or more and 4.0 μm or less. When the average thickness of the second electrochromic layer 64 is 0.2 μm or more, the color density can be increased. When the average thickness of the second electrochromic layer 64 is 5.0 μm or less, the manufacturing cost can be reduced. When the average thickness of the second electrochromic layer 64 is 5.0 μm or less, the visibility is less likely to decrease due to coloring.

The electrolyte layer 65 is filled between the first electrochromic layer 63 and the second electrochromic layer 64. The electrolyte layer 65 contains an electrolyte having ion conductivity.

Examples of the electrolyte include inorganic ion salts such as alkali metal salts and alkaline earth metal salts, and supporting salts such as quaternary ammonium salts, acids, and alkalis. Examples of the counter ion (anion) of the electrolyte include halogen, thiocyanate ion ( ^{SCN- )} , chlorate ion ( _ClO3- ) ^, perchlorate ion ( ^ClO4- ), tetrafluoroborate ion ( _BF4- ), hexafluorophosphate ion ( _PF6- ), trifluoromethanesulfonate ion ( _CF3SO3- ⁾ , trifluoroacetate ion ( _CF3COO- ) ^, _{and bisfluorosulfonium} imide (N( _SO2F ⁾ _2- ⁾ .

Specific examples of such electrolytes include _LiClO4 , _{LiBF4 , LiAsF6} , LiPF6, _LiCF3SO3 , _LiCF3COO , KCl, _NaClO3 , NaCl, _NaBF4 , NaSCN _{, KBF4} , Mg( _ClO4 ) ₂ , Mg( _BF4 ) ₂ , etc. As the electrolyte, one of these may be used, or two or more of them may be used in combination.

Ionic liquids can also be used as electrolyte materials. Among ionic liquids, organic ionic liquids have a molecular structure that allows them to remain liquid over a wide temperature range, including room temperature, making them easy to handle.

Examples of the cationic component of the organic ionic liquid include imidazole derivatives such as N,N-dimethylimidazole salt, N,N-methylethylimidazole salt, and N,N-methylpropylimidazole salt; pyridinium derivatives such as N,N-dimethylpyridinium salt and N,N-methylpropylpyridinium salt; and aliphatic quaternary ammonium salts such as trimethylpropylammonium salt, trimethylhexylammonium salt, and triethylhexylammonium salt. As the anionic component, it is preferable to use a compound containing fluorine, taking into consideration stability in the atmosphere. Examples of the anionic component include BF ₄ ^- , CF ₃ SO ₃ ^- , PF ₄ ^- , and (CF ₃ SO ₂ ) ₂ N ^- .

The electrolyte material is preferably an ionic liquid that combines a cationic component and an anionic component.

The ionic liquid may be directly dissolved in any of the photopolymerizable monomers, oligomers, and liquid crystal materials. If the ionic liquid has low solubility in these materials, a solution in which the ionic liquid has been dissolved in advance in a small amount of solvent can be mixed with any of the photopolymerizable monomers, oligomers, and liquid crystal materials.

Examples of solvents include propylene carbonate, acetonitrile, γ-butyrolactone, ethylene carbonate, sulfolane, dioxolane, tetrahydrofuran, 2-methyltetrahydrofuran, dimethyl sulfoxide, 1,2-dimethoxyethane, 1,2-ethoxymethoxyethane, polyethylene glycol, alcohols, and mixed solvents thereof.

The electrolyte may be a low-viscosity liquid. The electrolyte may be in various forms, such as a gel, a polymer cross-linked type, or a liquid crystal dispersion type. It is preferable to form the electrolyte in a gel or solid state. This can improve the element strength and reliability of the electrochromic element 60.

As a method for making the electrolyte layer 65 solid, for example, a method in which a liquid containing an electrolyte and a solvent is held in a resin is preferable. This makes it possible to obtain both high ionic conductivity and solid strength of the electrolyte layer 65. As the resin, for example, a photocurable resin is preferable. This makes it possible to obtain a solid electrolyte layer 65 at a low temperature and in a short time, compared to the case in which a solid electrolyte layer 65 is obtained by thermal polymerization or solvent evaporation.

The average thickness of the electrolyte layer 65 is preferably 20 μm or more and 100 μm or less, more preferably 30 μm or more and 80 μm or less, and even more preferably 30 μm or more and 70 μm or less.

In addition, an intermediate layer, such as an insulating porous layer or a protective layer, may be provided between each layer between the first transparent electrode 13 and the second transparent electrode 14.

As shown in FIG. 4, the sealing portion 55 is disposed between the first substrate 11 and the second substrate 12, and defines the colored region 70. The sealing portion 55 has insulating properties. The sealing portion 55 surrounds the colored region 70 in a plan view.

The constituent material of the sealing portion 55 is not particularly limited as long as it is an insulating material having transparency, and examples thereof include resin materials such as acrylic resin and epoxy resin; and inorganic oxides such as silicon oxide ( _SiO2 ), silicon oxynitride (SiON), and _aluminum oxide ( _Al2O3 ).

The thickness of the sealing portion 55 is determined according to the thickness of the electrochromic element 60. The average thickness of the sealing portion 55 is preferably 20 μm or more and 100 μm or less, more preferably 30 μm or more and 80 μm or less, and more preferably 40 μm or more and 60 μm or less.

The first conductive portion 17 is formed in the sealing portion 55 from the first substrate 11 side toward the second substrate 12. The first conductive portion 17 is located at a position overlapping the first extraction portion 15B (see FIG. 6) of the first auxiliary electrode 15, and penetrates the sealing portion 55 in the thickness direction. The first conductive portion 17 is electrically connected to the first transparent electrode 13 via the first auxiliary electrode 15. The first conductive portion 17 is electrically connected to the first transparent electrode 13, for example, at one of the positions on the bridge portion 22 side and the temple portion 23 side.

The second conductive portion 18 is formed in the sealing portion 55 from the second substrate 12 side toward the first substrate 11. The second conductive portion 18 is provided on the opposite side of the colored region 70 from the first conductive portion 17. The second conductive portion 18 is located at a position overlapping the second extraction portion 16B (see FIG. 6) of the second auxiliary electrode 16, and penetrates the sealing portion 55 in the thickness direction. The second conductive portion 18 is electrically connected to the second transparent electrode 14 via the second auxiliary electrode 16. The second conductive portion 18 is electrically connected to the second transparent electrode 14, for example, at the other position of the bridge portion 22 side and the temple portion 23 side.

In this way, the first conductive portion 17 is electrically connected to the first transparent electrode 13 at one of the bridge portion 22 side and the temple portion 23 side. The second conductive portion 18 is electrically connected to the second transparent electrode 14 at the other of the bridge portion 22 side and the temple portion 23 side. Therefore, a voltage can be applied between the first transparent electrode 13 and the second transparent electrode 14 via the first conductive portion 17 and the second conductive portion 18. The first conductive portion 17 and the second conductive portion 18 function as connection terminals when applying a voltage between the first transparent electrode 13 and the second transparent electrode 14. When a voltage is applied between the first transparent electrode 13 and the second transparent electrode 14, the colored region 70 develops or loses color.

After step [3] or after step [4], the electrochromic element 60 can be easily inspected by applying a voltage between the first transparent electrode 13 and the second transparent electrode 14 via the first conductive portion 17 and the second conductive portion 18.

The constituent material of the first conductive portion 17 and the second conductive portion 18 may be, for example, a conductive paste such as silver paste. The constituent material of the first conductive portion 17 and the second conductive portion 18 may be a material containing a metal such as gold, copper, or an alloy thereof.

The average thickness of the first conductive portion 17 and the second conductive portion 18 is preferably, independently, 20 μm or more and 100 μm or less, and more preferably 40 μm or more and 80 μm or less.

Figure 6 is an exploded perspective view showing electrochromic sheet 150. Figure 7 is a plan view of a portion of electrochromic sheet 150. Figure 7 is an enlarged view of region R1 in Figure 3. Figure 8 is a plan view of a portion of electrochromic sheet 150. Figure 8 is an enlarged view of region R2 in Figure 3.

In the following description, an XYZ Cartesian coordinate system is used. As shown in FIG. 6, the X direction is the direction that connects the first extraction portion 15B and the second extraction portion 16B in a plane along the surface of the first substrate 11. The Y direction is orthogonal to the X direction in a plane along the surface of the first substrate 11. The Z direction is orthogonal to both the X and Y directions. Planar view refers to viewing parallel to the Z direction. One of the X directions is called the "+X direction". The direction opposite the +X direction is called the "-X direction". One of the Y directions is called the "+Y direction". The direction opposite the +Y direction is called the "-Y direction".

In FIG. 6 , the first transparent electrode 13 and the second transparent electrode 14 are displayed as a shape of a lens 30 .
The first transparent electrode 13 includes, for example, a first main body portion 13A and a first protrusion portion 13B. For example, the first main body portion 13A is shaped in accordance with the lens 30 (see FIG. 1) in a plan view. The first main body portion 13A may be shaped in a circular or elliptical shape in a plan view. The first protrusion portion 13B protrudes in the −X direction (direction away from the colored region 70) from a portion of the outer periphery of the first main body portion 13A on the −X direction side. The first protrusion portion 13B is formed at a position corresponding to the connection portion (a portion where the bridge portion 22 or the temple portion 23 is connected to the rim portion 21).

The second transparent electrode 14 includes, for example, a second main body portion 14A and a second protrusion portion 14B. For example, the second main body portion 14A has a shape corresponding to the lens 30 (see FIG. 1) in a plan view. The second main body portion 14A may have, for example, a circular or elliptical shape in a plan view. The second protrusion portion 14B protrudes in the +X direction (direction away from the colored region 70) from the portion of the outer periphery of the second main body portion 14A on the +X direction side. The second protrusion portion 14B is formed at a position corresponding to the connection portion (the portion where the bridge portion 22 or temple portion 23 is connected to the rim portion 21).

The first auxiliary electrode 15 includes a first opposing electrode portion 15A and a first extraction portion 15B. The first opposing electrode portion 15A extends along a portion of the outer periphery 70a of the colored region 70. More specifically, the first opposing electrode portion 15A extends along a portion of the outer periphery 70a of the colored region 70 on the -X direction side. The first opposing electrode portion 15A is formed away from the outer periphery 70a of the colored region 70.

The first auxiliary electrode 15 is laminated on the first transparent electrode 13. The first auxiliary electrode 15 is electrically connected to the first transparent electrode 13. Therefore, the first auxiliary electrode 15 is electrically connected to the electrochromic element 60. The first auxiliary electrode 15 is electrically connected to the first conductive portion 17. The first auxiliary electrode 15 electrically connects the first transparent electrode 13 and the first conductive portion 17 (see FIG. 4).

The electrical resistance value of the first auxiliary electrode 15 is lower than the electrical resistance value of the first transparent electrode 13. That is, the first auxiliary electrode 15 has a lower electrical resistance than the first transparent electrode 13. Therefore, the laminate of the first transparent electrode 13 and the first auxiliary electrode 15 can be given high electrical conductivity. The laminate of the first transparent electrode 13 and the first auxiliary electrode 15 functions as a low electrical resistance wiring electrically connected to the electrochromic element 60 (see FIG. 4).

As shown in FIG. 3, the first opposing electrode portion 15A includes a first extending portion 1 and a second extending portion 2. The first extending portion 1 and the second extending portion 2 are arranged in a substantially rectangular shape.
The first extension portion 1 is a linear portion that starts from the midpoint in the length direction of the first opposing electrode portion 15A (the position where the first extraction portion 15B is formed) (first base portion) and extends to one side (clockwise direction in FIG. 3) along the outer peripheral edge 70a of the colored region 70. The first extension portion 1 approaches the second opposing electrode portion 16A (more specifically, the third extension portion 3) while moving in the +Y direction (upward in FIG. 3). The first extension portion 1 is curved such that the inclination angle (inclination angle with respect to the X direction) gradually decreases toward the tip.

The length of the first extension portion 1 can be, for example, 5 mm or more and 20 mm or less. If the length of the first extension portion 1 is within this range, voltage can be applied evenly over a wide area of the colored region 70.

As shown in FIG. 7, in a plan view, the width W1 of the portion 1A (tip portion 1A) including at least the tip 1a (one end) of the first extension portion 1 may be, for example, 0.1 mm or more and 1.0 mm or less. The tip portion 1A has a width W1 of 0.1 mm or more, so that the electrical resistance can be reduced. Therefore, coloring and decoloring in the colored region 70 can be performed without delay. The tip portion 1A has a width W1 of 1.0 mm or less, so that it is difficult to see from the outside. Therefore, the first extension portion 1 is not noticeable. Therefore, the aesthetics of the sunglasses 100 can be improved. The width W1 may be 0.3 mm or more and 1.0 mm or less. The width W1 is preferably 0.3 mm or more and 0.7 mm or less.

In this embodiment, the tip portion 1A of the first extension portion 1 is a length portion having a constant width (width W1).
The tip portion of the first extension portion 1 is not limited to a shape having a constant width, and may be a shape whose width gradually narrows toward the tip. In this case, the width of the tip portion may be an average width in a predetermined length range (for example, a length range of 5 mm from the tip). The width of the tip portion may be the width at the tip.

In plan view, the distance W2 between the first opposing electrode portion 15A (e.g., the first extension portion 1 and the second extension portion 2) and the outer periphery 70a of the colored region 70 is preferably 0.25 mm or more. When the distance W2 is 0.25 mm or more, the first opposing electrode portion 15A is located sufficiently away from the colored region 70. Therefore, the influence from the colored region 70 can be suppressed, and deterioration of the first opposing electrode portion 15A can be suppressed. When the distance W2 is 0.25 mm or more, the external influence on the colored region 70 can be reduced. Therefore, the characteristics of the colored region 70 can be improved. The distance W2 is preferably 0.5 mm or more. The distance W2 may be, for example, 2 mm or less.

As shown in FIG. 3, the second extension portion 2 is a linear portion that starts from the midpoint in the length direction of the first opposing electrode portion 15A (the position where the first extraction portion 15B is formed) (first base portion) and extends to the other side (counterclockwise direction in FIG. 3) along the outer peripheral edge 70a of the colored region 70. The second extension portion 2 extends in the -Y direction (downward in FIG. 3) while approaching the second opposing electrode portion 16A (more specifically, the fourth extension portion 4). The second extension portion 2 is curved so that the inclination angle (inclination angle with respect to the X direction) gradually decreases toward the tip.

In a plan view, the width of the portion (tip portion) including at least the tip (one end) of the second extension portion 2 may be, for example, 0.1 mm or more and 1.0 mm or less. Since the width of the tip portion is 0.1 mm or more, the electrical resistance can be reduced. Therefore, coloring and decoloring in the colored region 70 can be performed without delay. Since the width of the tip portion is 1.0 mm or less, it is difficult to see from the outside. Therefore, the second extension portion 2 is not easily noticeable. This improves the aesthetic appearance of the sunglasses 100. The width of the tip portion may be 0.3 mm or more and 1.0 mm or less.

In this embodiment, the tip portion of the second extension portion 2 is a length portion having a constant width.
The tip portion of the second extension portion 2 is not limited to a shape having a constant width, and may be a shape whose width gradually narrows toward the tip. In this case, the width of the tip portion may be an average width in a predetermined length range (for example, a length range of 5 mm from the tip). The width of the tip portion may be the width at the tip.

The second extension portion 2 may be longer than the first extension portion 1, or may be the same length as the first extension portion 1. The dimension of the second extension portion 2 in the Y direction may be greater than the dimension of the first extension portion 1 in the Y direction.

The first opposing electrode portion 15A has a first extension portion 1 and a second extension portion 2, so that a voltage can be applied evenly over a wide range of the colored region 70. Therefore, sufficient coloring (coloring) and decoloring can be achieved over a wide range of the colored region 70.

As shown in FIG. 6, the first extraction portion 15B protrudes in the -X direction (direction away from the colored region 70) from a part of the outer periphery of the first opposing electrode portion 15A. The first extraction portion 15B is formed, for example, at a position overlapping the first protrusion portion 13B of the first transparent electrode 13. The first extraction portion 15B is formed at a position corresponding to the connection portion (the portion where the bridge portion 22 or temple portion 23 is connected to the rim portion 21).

The second auxiliary electrode 16 includes a second opposing electrode portion 16A and a second extraction portion 16B. The second opposing electrode portion 16A extends along another part of the outer peripheral edge 70a of the colored region 70 (a part of the outer peripheral edge 70a of the colored region 70 that is different from the part where the first opposing electrode portion 15A is formed). In detail, the second opposing electrode portion 16A extends along a part of the outer peripheral edge 70a of the colored region 70 on the +X direction side. The second opposing electrode portion 16A is formed away from the outer peripheral edge 70a of the colored region 70.

The second opposing electrode portion 16A is located on the opposite side of the colored region 70 from the first opposing electrode portion 15A. The second opposing electrode portion 16A is located opposite the first opposing electrode portion 15A in the X direction.

The second auxiliary electrode 16 is laminated on the second transparent electrode 14. The second auxiliary electrode 16 is electrically connected to the second transparent electrode 14. Therefore, the second auxiliary electrode 16 is electrically connected to the electrochromic element 60. The second auxiliary electrode 16 is electrically connected to the second conductive portion 18. The second auxiliary electrode 16 electrically connects the second transparent electrode 14 and the second conductive portion 18 (see FIG. 4).

The electrical resistance value of the second auxiliary electrode 16 is lower than the electrical resistance value of the second transparent electrode 14. That is, the second auxiliary electrode 16 has a lower electrical resistance than the second transparent electrode 14. Therefore, the laminate of the second transparent electrode 14 and the second auxiliary electrode 16 can be given high electrical conductivity. The laminate of the second transparent electrode 14 and the second auxiliary electrode 16 functions as a low electrical resistance wiring electrically connected to the electrochromic element 60 (see FIG. 4).

As shown in FIG. 3, the second opposing electrode portion 16A includes a third extending portion 3 and a fourth extending portion 4.
The third extension portion 3 is a linear portion extending from the intermediate position in the length direction of the second opposing electrode portion 16A (the position where the second extraction portion 16B is formed) (second base portion) to one side (counterclockwise direction in FIG. 3) along the outer peripheral edge 70a of the colored region 70. The third extension portion 3 approaches the first opposing electrode portion 15A (more specifically, the first extension portion 1) while moving in the +Y direction (upward in FIG. 3). The third extension portion 3 is curved such that the inclination angle (inclination angle with respect to the X direction) gradually decreases toward the tip.

The length of the third extension portion 3 can be, for example, 5 mm or more and 20 mm or less. If the length of the third extension portion 3 is within this range, voltage can be applied evenly over a wide area of the colored region 70.

As shown in FIG. 8, in a plan view, the width W3 of the portion 3A (tip portion 3A) including at least the tip 3a (one end) of the third extension portion 3 may be, for example, 0.1 mm or more and 1.0 mm or less. The tip portion 3A has a width W3 of 0.1 mm or more, so that the electrical resistance can be reduced. Therefore, coloring and decoloring in the colored region 70 can be performed without delay. The tip portion 3A has a width W3 of 1.0 mm or less, so that it is difficult to see from the outside. Therefore, the third extension portion 3 is not noticeable. Therefore, the aesthetics of the sunglasses 100 can be improved. The width W3 may be 0.3 mm or more and 1.0 mm or less. The width W3 is preferably 0.3 mm or more and 0.7 mm or less.

In this embodiment, the tip portion 3A of the third extension portion 3 is a length portion having a constant width (width W3).
The tip portion of the third extension portion 3 is not limited to a shape having a constant width, and may be a shape whose width gradually narrows toward the tip. In this case, the width of the tip portion may be an average width in a predetermined length range (for example, a length range of 5 mm from the tip). The width of the tip portion may be the width at the tip.

In plan view, the distance W4 between the second opposing electrode portion 16A (e.g., the third extension portion 3 and the fourth extension portion 4) and the outer periphery 70a of the colored region 70 is preferably 0.25 mm or more. When the distance W4 is 0.25 mm or more, the second opposing electrode portion 16A is located sufficiently away from the colored region 70. Therefore, the influence from the colored region 70 can be suppressed, and deterioration of the second opposing electrode portion 16A can be suppressed. When the distance W4 is 0.25 mm or more, the external influence on the colored region 70 can be reduced. Therefore, the characteristics of the colored region 70 can be improved. The distance W4 is preferably 0.5 mm or more. The distance W4 may be, for example, 2 mm or less.

As shown in FIG. 3, the fourth extension portion 4 is a linear portion that starts from the midpoint in the length direction of the second opposing electrode portion 16A (the position where the second extraction portion 16B is formed) (second base portion) and extends to the other side (clockwise direction in FIG. 3) along the outer peripheral edge 70a of the colored region 70. The fourth extension portion 4 extends in the -Y direction (downward in FIG. 3) while approaching the first opposing electrode portion 15A (more specifically, the second extension portion 2). The fourth extension portion 4 is curved so that the inclination angle (inclination angle with respect to the X direction) gradually decreases toward the tip.

In a plan view, the width of the portion (tip portion) including at least the tip (one end) of the fourth extension portion 4 may be, for example, 0.1 mm or more and 1.0 mm or less. Since the width of the tip portion is 0.1 mm or more, the electrical resistance can be reduced. Therefore, coloring and decoloring in the colored region 70 can be performed without delay. Since the width of the tip portion is 1.0 mm or less, it is difficult to see from the outside. Therefore, the fourth extension portion 4 is not easily noticeable. This improves the aesthetic appearance of the sunglasses 100. The width of the tip portion may be 0.3 mm or more and 1.0 mm or less.

In this embodiment, the tip portion of the fourth extension portion 4 is a length portion having a constant width.
The tip portion of the fourth extension portion 4 is not limited to a shape having a constant width, and may be a shape whose width gradually narrows toward the tip. In this case, the width of the tip portion may be an average width in a predetermined length range (for example, a length range of 5 mm from the tip). The width of the tip portion may be the width at the tip.

The fourth extension portion 4 may be longer than the third extension portion 3, or may be the same length as the third extension portion 3. The Y-direction dimension of the fourth extension portion 4 may be greater than the Y-direction dimension of the third extension portion 3.

The second opposing electrode portion 16A has a third extension portion 3 and a fourth extension portion 4, so that a voltage can be applied evenly over a wide range of the colored region 70. Therefore, sufficient coloring (coloring) and decoloring can be achieved over a wide range of the colored region 70.

The first extension portion 1 and the third extension portion 3 are arranged facing each other in the X direction. The first extension portion 1 and the third extension portion 3 extend in a direction approaching each other. The tips of the first extension portion 1 and the third extension portion 3 face each other. The second extension portion 2 and the fourth extension portion 4 are arranged facing each other in the X direction. The second extension portion 2 and the fourth extension portion 4 extend in a direction approaching each other. The tips of the second extension portion 2 and the fourth extension portion 4 face each other.

As shown in FIG. 6, the second extraction portion 16B protrudes in the +X direction (direction away from the colored region 70) from a part of the outer periphery of the second opposing electrode portion 16A. The second extraction portion 16B is formed, for example, at a position overlapping the second protrusion portion 14B of the second transparent electrode 14. The second extraction portion 16B is formed at a position corresponding to the connection portion (the portion where the bridge portion 22 or temple portion 23 is connected to the rim portion 21).

Examples of the materials for the first auxiliary electrode 15 and the second auxiliary electrode 16 include metals such as silver, aluminum, copper, chromium, and molybdenum. Conductive ink can also be used as the material for the first auxiliary electrode 15 and the second auxiliary electrode 16. One of these materials may be used as the material for the first auxiliary electrode 15 and the second auxiliary electrode 16, or two or more of them may be used in combination. The first auxiliary electrode 15 and the second auxiliary electrode 16 can be formed by, for example, sputtering, deposition, or the like. The first auxiliary electrode 15 and the second auxiliary electrode 16 can also be formed by printing using conductive ink.
The average thickness of first auxiliary electrode 15 and second auxiliary electrode 16 is preferably 1 nm or more and 100 nm or less, and more preferably 5 nm or more and 50 nm or less.

The total thickness of the electrochromic sheet 150 is preferably 0.3 mm or more and 10.0 mm or less, and more preferably 0.5 mm or more and 5.0 mm or less. By setting the total thickness of the electrochromic sheet 150 within the above range, it is possible to impart excellent strength to the electrochromic sheet 150 and improve the thermoformability when forming the electrochromic sheet 150 into the curved sheet 120.

As described above, the electrochromic sheet 150 is laminated with the resin layer 35 (see FIG. 2(D)), and then cut out into the lens 30 corresponding to the rim portion 21 (see FIG. 1) by trimming, cutting, or the like. The virtual lines shown in FIGS. 3, 7, and 8 indicate the outer peripheral edge 30a of the lens 30.

As shown in Figures 7 and 8, the region of the sealing portion 55 that defines the colored region 70, from the outer edge 70a of the colored region 70 to the outer edge 30a of the lens 30, is called the sealing region 56. The sealing region 56 is an annular region that surrounds the colored region 70 (see Figure 3). The sealing region 56 has the function of protecting the colored region 70. The sealing region 56 also functions as an adhesive layer that bonds the multiple layers that make up the electrochromic sheet 150 and maintains the laminated state of these layers. The outer edge 30a is the outer edge of the sealing region 56.

As shown in Figures 7 and 8, the width W5 of the sealing region 56 is 1 mm or more and 3 mm or less. It is desirable that the sealing region 56 be in this range over the entire circumference. It is preferable that the width W5 of the sealing region 56 be 1.5 mm or more and 2.5 mm or less.

The sealing region 56 has a width W5 of 1 mm or more, which restricts the intrusion of moisture from the outside and protects the first and second opposing electrode portions 15A and 16A. In other words, the first and second opposing electrode portions 15A and 16A can be prevented from deteriorating due to oxidation or the like. The sealing region 56 has a width W5 of 1 mm or more, which restricts the intrusion of moisture from the outside and protects the colored region 70. The sealing region 56 has a width W5 of 1 mm or more, which enhances the durability of the sealing region 56 when the lens 30 is produced by cutting. The sealing region 56 has a width W5 of 1 mm or more, which ensures sufficient adhesion to other layers even when the electrochromic sheet 150 is thermoformed to produce a curved sheet.

Since the width W5 of the sealing area 56 is 3 mm or less, the non-colored area in the lens 30 can be narrowed. Therefore, the electrochromic sheet 150 is suitable from the viewpoint of aesthetics. Since the sealing area 56, which is the non-colored area, is narrow, the electrochromic sheet 150 has a high degree of freedom in design and is also suitable from the viewpoint of design.

As shown in FIG. 7, in a plan view, the distance W6 between the first opposing electrode portion 15A and the outer peripheral edge 30a of the lens 30 is preferably 0.25 mm or more. If the distance W6 is 0.25 mm or more, the intrusion of moisture and the like from the outside can be restricted, and the deterioration of the first auxiliary electrode 15 due to oxidation and the like can be suppressed. The distance W6 may be, for example, 1 mm or less.

As shown in FIG. 8, in a plan view, the distance W7 between the second opposing electrode portion 16A and the outer peripheral edge 30a of the lens 30 is preferably 0.25 mm or more. If the distance W7 is 0.25 mm or more, the intrusion of moisture and the like from the outside can be restricted, and the deterioration of the second auxiliary electrode 16 due to oxidation and the like can be suppressed. The distance W7 may be, for example, 1 mm or less.

The electrochromic sheet 150 of this embodiment has a width W5 of the sealing region 56 of 1 mm or more and 3 mm or less, which prevents the first auxiliary electrode 15 and the second auxiliary electrode 16 from deteriorating due to oxidation, etc., and is also aesthetically pleasing. Therefore, an electrochromic sheet 150 with good electrochromic properties and excellent aesthetics can be realized.

The electrochromic sheet 150 includes a first electrochromic layer 63 that changes color due to an oxidation reaction, a second electrochromic layer 64 that changes color due to a reduction reaction, and an electrolyte layer 65. Since the electrochromic sheet 150 includes two electrochromic layers, the driving voltage of the electrochromic element 60 can be suppressed. This improves the repetitive durability of the electrochromic element 60.

When the distances W2 and W4 between the first opposing electrode portion 15A and the second opposing electrode portion 16A and the outer periphery 70a of the colored region 70 are 0.25 mm or more, the first opposing electrode portion 15A and the second opposing electrode portion 16A are located sufficiently far away from the colored region 70. This reduces the influence of the colored region 70 and suppresses deterioration of the first opposing electrode portion 15A and the second opposing electrode portion 16A.

If the distances W6 and W7 between the first opposing electrode portion 15A and the second opposing electrode portion 16A and the outer peripheral edge 30a of the lens 30 are 0.25 mm or more, the intrusion of moisture and other substances from the outside can be restricted, and deterioration of the first auxiliary electrode 15 and the second opposing electrode portion 16A can be suppressed.

The lens 30 and sunglasses 100 have the same effect as the electrochromic sheet 150.

Although the electrochromic sheet, the eyeglass lens, and the eyeglasses according to the embodiments have been described, the present invention is not limited thereto.
5 has two electrochromic layers 63 and 64, but the number of electrochromic layers is not limited to two. The number of electrochromic layers may be one or more (any number greater than or equal to two).

The electrochromic layer may change color due to at least one of an oxidation reaction and a reduction reaction. For example, the electrochromic layer may utilize only the color change due to an oxidation reaction, or may utilize only the color change due to a reduction reaction. The electrochromic layer may be configured to change color using both an oxidation reaction and a reduction reaction. The electrochromic sheet may include an electrochromic layer that changes color due to at least one of an oxidation reaction and a reduction reaction.

The width W5 of the sealing region 56 shown in Figures 7 and 8 indicates the width of the sealing region 56 within the length range of the first extension portion 1 and the third extension portion 3, but the width W5 of the sealing region 56 may be 1 mm or more and 3 mm or less at least within the range where the first opposing electrode portion 15A and the second opposing electrode portion 16A are located.

The layers constituting the electrochromic element 60 of the electrochromic sheet 150 shown in FIG. 5 may be replaced with other configurations that exhibit similar functions. The electrochromic sheet 150 may further include other layers (intermediate layers) between the substrates 11 and 12 and the electrochromic element 60.

REFERENCE SIGNS LIST 1: First extension portion 2: Second extension portion 3: Third extension portion 4: Fourth extension portion 11: First substrate 12: Second substrate 13: First transparent electrode 14: Second transparent electrode 15: First auxiliary electrode 15A: First opposing electrode portion 16: Second auxiliary electrode 16A: Second opposing electrode portion 17: First conductive portion 18: Second conductive portion 30: Lens (eyeglass lens)
55: Sealing portion 56: Sealing region 60: Electrochromic element 63: First electrochromic layer (electrochromic layer)
64: Second electrochromic layer (electrochromic layer)
65: Electrolyte layer 70: Colored region 70a: Outer rim 100: Sunglasses (eyeglasses)
150: Electrochromic sheet W2: Distance between the first counter electrode portion and the outer periphery of the colored region W4: Distance between the second counter electrode portion and the outer periphery of the colored region W5: Width of the sealing region W6: Distance between the first counter electrode portion and the outer periphery of the lens (eyeglass lens) W7: Distance between the second counter electrode portion and the outer periphery of the lens (eyeglass lens)

Claims (5)

An electrochromic sheet for use in eyeglass lenses,
A first substrate;
a second substrate disposed opposite the first substrate;
an electrochromic element provided between the first substrate and the second substrate, forming a colored region whose color changes upon application of a voltage;
an insulating sealing portion that defines the colored region;
a first auxiliary electrode electrically connected to the electrochromic element;
a second auxiliary electrode electrically connected to the electrochromic element;
The electrochromic element comprises:
a first transparent electrode electrically connected to the first auxiliary electrode;
a second transparent electrode electrically connected to the second auxiliary electrode;
and one or more electrochromic layers that change color in response to at least one of an oxidation reaction and a reduction reaction;
the first auxiliary electrode has a first opposing electrode portion that has a lower electrical resistance than the first transparent electrode and extends along a part of an outer periphery of the colored region;
the second auxiliary electrode has a second opposing electrode portion that has a lower electrical resistance than the second transparent electrode and extends along another part of the outer periphery of the colored region;
the second opposing electrode portion is on the opposite side of the colored region from the first opposing electrode portion and faces the first opposing electrode portion;
The width of the sealing region, which is a region from the outer periphery of the colored region to the outer periphery of the eyeglass lens, is 1 mm or more and 3 mm or less.
Electrochromic sheet. the plurality of electrochromic layers include a first electrochromic layer electrically connected to the first transparent electrode and a second electrochromic layer electrically connected to the second transparent electrode;
The electrochromic element further includes an electrolyte layer filled between the first electrochromic layer and the second electrochromic layer,
the first electrochromic layer contains a material that changes color upon oxidation;
The second electrochromic layer contains a material that changes color upon reduction reaction.
2. The electrochromic sheet according to claim 1. In a plan view, a distance between the first opposing electrode portion and the second opposing electrode portion and an outer periphery of the colored region is 0.25 mm or more;
In a plan view, a distance between the first opposing electrode portion and the second opposing electrode portion and an outer circumferential edge of the eyeglass lens is 0.25 mm or more.
2. The electrochromic sheet according to claim 1. The electrochromic sheet according to any one of claims 1 to 3 is provided.
Lenses for glasses. Glasses comprising the eyeglass lens according to claim 4.

Images