JP6812774B2 - Element control device and element control method - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to an element control device and an element control method.

An electric dimming element that controls the light transmittance by an electric signal is different from a dimming element that uses a photochromic phenomenon in which the light transmittance changes due to light irradiation such as ultraviolet rays, and the user can freely control the light transmittance. It has merits such as being able to control.

Among the electric dimming elements, the electrochromic element has high transparency in a neutral state and can exhibit a high optical density, so that not only a high contrast ratio can be obtained but also the coloring density depends on the applied voltage value. Since it is possible to express gradation by controlling the above, various developments have been made so far.

As a device for controlling the electrochromic element, an electromotive force generating element for generating an electromotive force, the electrochromic element driven by the electromotive force, and the electrochromic for the purpose of improving responsiveness and realizing low power consumption. An optical device having at least one resistor connected in parallel with an element and adjusting the amount of current flowing through the resistor according to the energized state of the optical device has been proposed (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

An object of the present invention is to provide an element control device capable of accurately controlling the amount of charge captured and released by an electrochromic element and suppressing deterioration of the electrochromic element and the device.

The element control device of the present invention as a means for solving the above-mentioned problems includes an electrochromic element, a power supply unit that is electrically connected to the electrochromic element and adjusts the supply of electric current to the electrochromic element. A variable resistor electrically connected in parallel to the electrochromic element, a current measuring means electrically connected to the electrochromic element to measure the current value, and a current value measured by the current measuring means. Based on the above, the element control device includes a control unit for adjusting the supply of electric current to the electrochromic element by the power supply unit.

According to the present invention, it is possible to provide an element control device capable of accurately controlling the amount of charge captured and released by the electrochromic element and suppressing deterioration of the electrochromic element and the device.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the element control device of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing another example of the element control device of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a schematic view showing an example of an electrochromic device. FIG. 4 is a schematic view showing another example of the electrochromic device. FIG. 5 is a schematic view showing another example of the electrochromic device. FIG. 6 is a schematic view showing another example of the electrochromic device. FIG. 7 is a block diagram for explaining a control method for putting an electrochromic element into a colored state by using the element control device shown in FIG. FIG. 8 is a block diagram for explaining a control method for putting an electrochromic element into a colored state by using the element control device shown in FIG. FIG. 9 is a block diagram for explaining a control method for putting an electrochromic element in a decolorized state by using the element control device shown in FIG. FIG. 10 is a block diagram for explaining a control method for putting an electrochromic element in a decolorized state by using the element control device shown in FIG. FIG. 11 is a block diagram for explaining a control method for putting an electrochromic element in a decolorized state by using the element control device shown in FIG. FIG. 12 is a block diagram for explaining a control method for bringing the electrochromic element into a color-holding state by using the element control device shown in FIG. FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing an example of a control flow for putting an electrochromic element into a colored state by using the element control device of the present invention. FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing an example of a control flow in which the electrochromic element is gradually decolorized by using the element control device of the present invention. FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing an example of a control flow for putting an electrochromic element in a decolorized state by using the element control device of the present invention. FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing another example of the flow of control for putting the electrochromic element in a decolorized state by using the element control device of the present invention. FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing an example of a control flow for putting an electrochromic element in a color-holding state by using the element control device of the present invention. FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing another example of the flow of control for putting the electrochromic element in the colored holding state by using the element control device of the present invention. FIG. 19 is a block diagram showing an element control device of Comparative Example 1. FIG. 20 is a block diagram showing the element control devices of Comparative Examples 2 and 3.

(Element control device)
[First Embodiment]
A first embodiment of the element control device of the present invention includes an electrochromic element, a power supply unit that is electrically connected to the electrochromic element and adjusts the supply of electric current to the electrochromic element, and the electrochromic element. Based on a variable resistor electrically connected in parallel with the current, a current measuring means electrically connected to the electrochromic element and measuring the current value, and a current value measured by the current measuring means. A switch unit that has a control unit that adjusts the supply of current to the electrochromic element by the power supply unit and that can electrically separate the power supply unit from the electrochromic element, the variable resistor, and the current measuring means. It is preferable to have, and if necessary, it has other means.

In the optical device described in Patent Document 1, the element control device of the present invention (hereinafter, may be simply referred to as a “control device”) is in a state in which electric charges are captured in the electrochromic element, that is, in a color holding state. At that time, if a constant voltage is continuously applied to the electrochromic element and a current is continuously supplied, the power consumption increases and the electrochromic element may deteriorate and turn yellow. is there.
Further, when an electric charge is discharged from the electrochromic element, that is, when a voltage having a positive and negative opposite to the voltage for capturing the electric charge is applied when changing from a colored state to a decolorized state, between both electrodes of the electrochromic element. It is based on the finding that charge imbalance may occur and the electrochromic element may deteriorate and turn yellow.
Further, when the electrochromic element is connected to a circuit such as the power supply unit of the element control device, the electric charge emitted from the electrochromic element flows to the element control device as a discharge current to cause damage and deterioration. This is based on the finding that the life of the element control device may be shortened.
Since the element control performed by the control unit in the element control device of the present invention is synonymous with implementing the element control method of the present invention, the element control method of the present invention will be described through the description of the element control device of the present invention. Details will also be revealed.

<Electrochromic element>
The electrochromic device (hereinafter, also referred to as “EC device”) is not particularly limited as long as the coloring concentration can be changed by capturing and releasing electric charges, and can be appropriately selected depending on the intended purpose. From the viewpoint of responsiveness and power consumption, it is preferable to have a memory property capable of holding a colored state and a decolored state.
The electrochromic device has a first electrode, a second electrode, an electrolyte, an electrochromic layer, and if necessary, another layer.
The electrochromic element is in a colored state by capturing electric charges when a voltage is applied between both electrodes of the first electrode and the second electrode and a current is supplied. Further, the electrochromic element is put into a decolorized state by short-circuiting (short-circuiting) between the two electrodes or by applying a voltage opposite to the voltage for making the colored state, and releasing an electric charge. Further, the coloring density of the electrochromic element changes according to the amount of electric charge captured in the electrochromic element, and the voltage and resistance value between the two electrodes also change.
The voltage applied to bring the electrochromic element into a colored state may be referred to as a "coloring voltage", and the voltage applied to bring the electrochromic element into a decoloring state may be referred to as a "decoloring voltage".
The electrochromic element may be an element that captures and releases electric charges.

<< 1st electrode and 2nd electrode >>
The first electrode and the second electrode are not particularly limited as long as they are arranged so as to face each other, and can be appropriately selected depending on the intended purpose.
The material of the first electrode and the second electrode is not particularly limited as long as it is a conductive material, and can be appropriately selected depending on the intended purpose. Among these, a transparent conductive material having excellent transparency and conductivity is preferable because it is necessary to secure light transmission in order to further enhance the visibility of the color developed by the electrochromic layer.
The transparent conductive material is not particularly limited and may be appropriately selected depending on the intended purpose. For example, an inorganic material such as tin-doped indium oxide, fluorine-doped tin oxide, and antimony-doped tin oxide. And so on.

<< Electrolyte >>
The electrolyte is not particularly limited as long as it is filled between the first electrode and the second electrode, and can be appropriately selected depending on the intended purpose, but the supporting salt is dissolved in a solvent. Electrolyte is preferred. When the electrolyte is the electrolyte, the ionic conductivity can be increased.
Examples of the supporting salt include inorganic ion salts such as alkali metal salts and alkaline earth metal salts, quaternary ammonium salts, acids, and supporting salts of alkalis.

<< Electrochromic layer >>
The electrochromic layer is arranged so that the first electrode and the second electrode are in contact with at least one of the facing surfaces.
The electrochromic layer preferably contains at least one of the electrochromic compound and the electrochromic composition. Instead of the electrochromic layer, the electrochromic composition may be arranged so as to be in contact with at least one of the surfaces where the first electrode and the second electrode face each other.

-Electrochromic compound-
The electrochromic compound is not particularly limited as long as it is a material that changes color by an oxidation reaction or a reduction reaction, and can be appropriately selected depending on the intended purpose. For example, a polymer-based compound, a dye-based compound, a metal complex, or a metal. Examples thereof include known electrochromic compounds such as oxides.

The electrochromic compound is preferably the electrochromic composition adsorbed on conductive or semiconducting nanostructures.
The nanostructure means a structure having nanoscale irregularities such as nanoparticles and nanoporous structures.
As the material of the nanostructure, a metal oxide is preferable from the viewpoint of transparency and conductivity.

The electrochromic compound preferably has at least one of a phosphonic acid group, a phosphoric acid group, and a carboxyl group. When the electrochromic compound has at least one of a phosphonic acid group, a phosphoric acid group, and a carboxyl group, it can be easily complexed with the nanostructures to obtain an electrochromic composition having excellent color retention.

The electrochromic compound preferably has at least one of a silyl group and a silanol group. When the electrochromic compound has at least one of a silyl group and a silanol group, it is bonded to the nanostructure via a siloxane bond, so that the bond becomes strong and the electrochromic composition has excellent stability. Can be obtained.
The siloxane bond is a chemical bond via a silicon atom and an oxygen atom.

-Electrochromic composition-
The electrochromic composition is not particularly limited and may be appropriately selected depending on the intended purpose, but it is preferable to have a structure in which the electrochromic compound and the nanostructure are bonded via a siloxane bond.

The layer structure of the electrochromic element is not particularly limited and may be appropriately selected depending on the intended purpose. Examples thereof include the layer structure shown in FIGS. 3 to 6.
In the case of the configuration of the electrochromic element shown in FIG. 6, the first electrode serves as an oxidizing electrode and the second electrode serves as a reducing electrode. In this case, when the first electrode is set to the + potential and the second electrode is set to the reference potential (GND), the electric charge is captured in the electrochromic element and becomes a colored state. Further, when the second electrode is set to + potential and the first electrode is set to the reference potential, the electric charge captured at the time of coloring is released from the electrochromic element to be in a decolorized state.

<Variable resistance>
The variable resistor is not particularly limited as long as it is connected to the electrochromic element in parallel, and can be appropriately selected depending on the intended purpose. Among these, a value having an extremely small minimum resistance value is preferable, and one having good resolution and controllability in the vicinity of the resistance value of the electrochromic element is more preferable. When the minimum value of the resistance value is as small as possible, it is advantageous in that when the electrochromic element is put into a decolorized state, the electric charge in the electrochromic element is easily released. The extremely small value varies depending on the member and the configuration, but for example, 50 Ω or less is preferable, and 10 Ω or less is more preferable.
It is preferable that the resistance value of the variable resistor is set by, for example, a resistance value control signal input from the control unit.
Examples of the variable resistor include an electronic volume and the like.
Further, the variable resistor may be one in which the fixed resistor is switched by a switch or the like.

A circuit in which the variable resistor is connected in parallel to the electrochromic element may be referred to as a "short circuit".
As the short circuit, it is preferable that the current measuring means is connected in series with the variable resistor.

<Current measuring means>
The current measuring means is not particularly limited as long as it is electrically connected to the electrochromic element and can measure the value of the current, and can be appropriately selected depending on the intended purpose.
The value of the current may be an instantaneous value or an integrated value. The format of the measured current value data is not particularly limited and can be appropriately selected according to the purpose. Even if it is an analog value, it can be converted from analog to digital by an operational amplifier, an A / D converter, or the like, for example. , Any format may be used as long as it can be compared with the threshold value of the correlation data table described later.
In order to perform the analog-to-digital conversion, an A / D converter built in a microcontroller or the like used in the control unit may be used, or an external A / D converter may be used in the control unit. Good.
It is preferable that the current measuring means controls the measurement of the value of the current flowing through the short circuit by the current measurement control signal input from the control unit.

<Power supply unit>
The power supply unit is not particularly limited as long as it is electrically connected to the electrochromic element and the supply of current to the electrochromic element can be adjusted, and can be appropriately selected depending on the intended purpose. Depending on the configuration of the electrochromic element as the electrochromic element, it is necessary to apply not only a positive voltage but also a negative voltage to the electrochromic element. Therefore, a power supply capable of applying both positive and negative voltages to the electrochromic element. Is preferable.
It is preferable that the power supply unit adjusts the supply of current to the electrochromic element by the current supply control signal input from the control unit.
Further, the power supply unit may be one power supply or may have a plurality of power supplies. When the power supply unit has two power supplies, it may be a combination of positive / positive, negative / positive, positive / negative, and negative / negative power supplies including a negative power supply.

<Control unit>
The control unit includes a current control signal, which will be described later, a first switch control signal, a second switch control signal, a third switch control signal, and a fourth, based on the current value measured by the current measuring means. If the switch control signal, the resistance value control signal, and the current measurement control signal can be output to control each unit, and the power supply unit can adjust the supply of current to the electrochromic element. There is no limitation, and it can be appropriately selected according to the purpose.
The control unit includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) that controls each operation of the element control device, and executes various processes based on a control program for controlling the operation of the entire element control device.

It is preferable that the control unit has a storage means for storing the correlation data table.
Examples of the storage means include a hard disk, RAM (Random Access Memories), and the like.

The correlation data table is data such as a color concentration of the electrochromic element with respect to a current supplied to the electrochromic element, a measured value such as a resistance value between both electrodes of the electrochromic element, and is stored in the storage means or the like. It is preferable that it is. Since the characteristic value of the electrochromic element is likely to change depending on conditions such as the operating environment temperature, if the correlation data table is created and stored in the storage means or the like, the current that can realize a desired coloring density. The threshold value for the value of can be easily determined. Further, even when the electrochromic element is deteriorated, the deteriorated state can be accurately determined by comparing the value in the correlation data table with the value of the voltage measured by the current measuring means. It is also possible to adjust the supplied current according to the deteriorated state.

<Switch section>
The switch unit is not particularly limited as long as the power supply unit can be electrically separated from the electrochromic element, the variable resistor, and the current measuring means, and can be appropriately selected depending on the intended purpose. , It is preferable to have a first switch and a second switch. The switch may be connected in series with the short circuit.
The first switch is connected in series between one terminal of the power supply unit and one electrode of the electrochromic element, and is energized by a first switch control signal input from the control unit. It is preferable that it can be switched on and off.
The second switch is connected in series between the other terminal of the power supply unit and the other electrode of the electrochromic element, and is energized by a second switch control signal input from the control unit. It is preferable that it can be switched on and off.
Examples of the switch include a mechanical switch such as a relay, an analog switch made of a semiconductor, and a field effect transistor such as a MOSFET.

<Other means>
The other means are not particularly limited and may be appropriately selected depending on the intended purpose. Examples thereof include a system power supply for driving the control unit, the power supply unit and the like.

Next, using the first embodiment of the element control device of the present invention, the control of putting the electrochromic element into a colored state, a decoloring state (gradation), a decoloring state, and a coloring holding state in stages. explain.

-Control to put the electrochromic element in a colored state-
As a control for putting the electrochromic element in a colored state, the control unit supplies a current to the electrochromic element by the power supply unit, and the value of the current measured by the current measuring means reaches a threshold value. When it is determined, it is preferable to adjust so that the supply of the current to the electrochromic element by the power supply unit is stopped.
It should be noted that the value of the current measured by the current measuring means reaches the threshold value when the current measuring means is connected in series with the electrochromic element, it becomes equal to or less than the threshold value. Is connected in parallel to the electrochromic element, the threshold value is exceeded.
The threshold value in this control is preferably the lower limit value of the voltage range of the electrochromic element according to the desired coloring state, which is determined based on the correlation data table. Further, the value of the current supplied to the electrochromic element in this control is preferably the value of the current of the electrochromic element according to the desired coloring state, which is determined based on the correlation data table.

As described above, in this control, when the control unit supplies a current to the electrochromic element by the power supply unit, the resistance value of the electrochromic element increases as the electrochromic element is colored. Then, since the value of the current measured by the current measuring means changes, the power supply unit adjusts the supply of the current to the electrochromic element based on the value of the current measured by the current measuring means. The colored state of the electrochromic element can be controlled with high accuracy.
Further, when the control unit determines that the value of the current measured by the current measuring means has reached the threshold value, the control unit adjusts the power supply unit so as to stop the supply of the current to the electrochromic element. As a result, the electric current is less likely to be continuously supplied to the electrochromic element and an excessive load is applied, so that deterioration of the electrochromic element can be suppressed.
Further, since the variable resistor is connected in parallel to the electrochromic element, an overcurrent may be supplied or a high voltage may be applied from the power supply unit or the like after reaching the threshold value. However, since a current also flows through the variable resistor, deterioration of the electrochromic element can be suppressed.
The supply of the current to the electrochromic element may be stopped by turning off the supply of the current from the power supply unit, and the switch unit energizes the power supply unit and the electrochromic element. This may be done by turning off the state.

When the control unit supplies a current to the electrochromic element by the power supply unit, the short circuit is configured by connecting the variable resistor and the current measuring means in series, and the control unit has the short circuit configured in parallel with the electrochromic element. It is preferable to connect a short circuit. In this way, a current unnecessary for coloring the electrochromic element flows through the short circuit, and control is performed based on the measured current value. Therefore, a high voltage is temporarily applied between both electrodes of the electrochromic element. Even if it is done, it is possible to suppress the deterioration of the electrochromic element.
When the short circuit is connected to the electrochromic element in parallel, the resistance value of the variable resistance when the electrochromic element is colored is the resistance value of the electrochromic element in the desired colored state. The above is preferable. When the resistance value of the variable resistor is in the preferable range, the current flowing through the short circuit is reduced, and the power consumption for putting the electrochromic element in the colored state can be reduced.

-Control to gradually decolorize the electrochromic element-
As a control for gradually decolorizing the electrochromic element, the element control device is a switch unit capable of electrically separating the power supply unit from the electrochromic element, the variable resistance, and the current measuring means. After the control unit electrically separates the power supply unit by the switch unit, the resistance value of the variable resistance is changed to release an electric charge from the electrochromic element, and the current measuring means. When it is determined that the value of the current measured by is equal to or less than the threshold value, it is preferable to set the resistance value for suppressing the emission of electric charge from the electrochromic element to the variable resistance.

As described above, in this control, after the electric power supply unit is electrically separated from the electrochromic element in the colored state and the short circuit, the electrochromic element has a desired coloring density from dark color to light color. In addition, by changing the resistance value of the variable resistor to release an electric charge from the electrochromic element and measuring the discharge current thereof, it is possible to accurately control the electrochromic element to be in a decolorized state. The gradation of the electrochromic element can be controlled by gradually changing the resistance value of the variable resistor. The electrochromic element in the gradation-colored state can be shifted to the colored holding state or the decolorized state.
Further, by electrically separating the power supply unit from the electrochromic element, the variable resistor, and the current measuring means, the element control device having the power supply unit and the like can be separated from the discharge current from the electrochromic element. Can be protected.
Further, the threshold value of this control is determined based on the correlation data table, and the resistance value of the variable resistor is changed to discharge an electric charge from the electrochromic element, and the electrochromic element is discharged. Is preferably a value at which is considered to have changed to a desired coloring density and the discharge current accompanying the change has flowed out. Then, when it is determined that the value of the current measured by the current measuring means is equal to or less than the threshold value, the resistance value for suppressing the emission of electric charge from the electrochromic element is set in the variable resistance. The desired colored state can be maintained for a long time.

-Control to put the electrochromic element in a decolorized state-
To control the electrochromic element to be in a decolorized state, the element control device further provides a switch unit capable of electrically separating the power supply unit from the electrochromic element, the variable resistor, and the current measuring means. It is preferable that the control unit electrically separates the power supply unit by the switch unit, and then sets an extremely small value to the variable resistor. The extremely small value varies depending on the member and the configuration, but for example, 50 Ω or less is preferable, and 10 Ω or less is more preferable.

As described above, in this control, after the control unit electrically separates the power supply unit by the switch unit, the device such as the power supply unit is set by setting an extremely small value to the variable resistor. Is protected from the discharge current of the electrochromic element, a discharge current flows from the electrochromic element to the variable resistor, and the electrochromic element can be controlled to be in a decolorized state.
Further, by setting the variable resistance to an extremely small value, the potential difference between the two electrodes of the electrochromic element is almost eliminated, and the electrochromic element can be efficiently discharged to bring both electrodes into a balanced state. it can. Therefore, the decoloring voltage is not applied to the electrochromic element, and the decoloring state can be achieved while suppressing deterioration of the electrochromic element. Further, since no decolorizing voltage is applied to the electrochromic element, power consumption can be reduced.

When the short circuit is connected in parallel with the electrochromic element, the resistance value of the variable resistor before the power supply unit is electrically separated by the switch unit is the resistance value of the electrochromic element in a colored state. It is preferable to set the value larger than the resistance value.

Instead of setting the infinitely small value for the variable resistor, another short circuit to which the variable resistor is not connected may be arranged and connected in parallel.
Further, by comparing the value of the current flowing through the short circuit with the correlation data table, it is possible to determine whether or not the electrochromic element has uncolored residue (uncolored residue), and it is possible to decolorize as necessary. A voltage may be applied to eliminate the remaining coloring.

-Control to keep the electrochromic element in a colored state-
As a control for keeping the electrochromic element in a colored state, the element control device further includes a switch unit capable of electrically separating the power supply unit from the electrochromic element, the variable resistance, and the current measuring means. Then, after the control unit electrically separates the power supply unit by the switch unit, the current due to the charge emitted from the electrochromic element becomes a low current value that can be measured by the current measuring means. As described above, when the resistance value is set to the variable resistance and the current value measured by the current measuring means is determined to be equal to or higher than the threshold value, the switch unit releases the electrical separation of the power supply unit. It is preferable that the power supply unit adjusts the supply of current to the electrochromic element.

As described above, in this control, the power supply unit is electrically separated from the electrochromic element and the short circuit, and the discharge current from the electrochromic element in the colored state is measured by the current measuring means, and the discharge current is measured. When the value is large, the coloring voltage is applied again, so that the coloring density of the electrochromic element can be controlled to be maintained for a long time with low power consumption, and deterioration of the electrochromic element can be suppressed.

Further, the voltage (additional coloring voltage) for adjusting the supply of the current to the electrochromic element in this control is preferably in the vicinity of the coloring voltage determined based on the correlation data table.
The application time of the additional coloring voltage is preferably equal to or less than the application time of the coloring voltage.

When the additional coloring voltage is applied, the short circuit may be connected.
After applying the additional coloring voltage, the electrochromic element and the element control device such as the power supply unit are electrically separated from the short circuit by the switch unit, and the value of the current measured by the current measuring means is monitored. May be continued. This monitoring can be terminated at any timing, and for example, the process may be terminated when it is determined that the holding time T or more set in advance is equal to or longer than that.

[Second Embodiment]
In the second embodiment of the element control device of the present invention, in the configuration of the first embodiment, the switch unit enables the electrochromic element to be connected to a reference potential.
The switch unit, which is different from the first embodiment, will be described.

<Switch section>
The switch unit is not particularly limited as long as any electrode of the electrochromic element can be connected to the reference potential, and can be appropriately selected depending on the intended purpose. In addition to the first switch and the second switch mentioned as the preferred embodiment of the first embodiment, it is preferable to have a third switch, a fourth switch, and a fifth switch.
The third switch is particularly limited as long as it is connected in series between one electrode of the electrochromic element and the reference potential and the energized state can be switched on and off according to the input third switch control signal. However, it can be appropriately selected according to the purpose.
The fourth switch is particularly limited as long as it is connected in series between the other electrode of the electrochromic element and the reference potential and the energized state can be switched on and off according to the input fourth switch control signal. However, it can be appropriately selected according to the purpose.
The fifth switch is not particularly limited as long as it is connected in series between one electrode of the variable resistor and the reference potential and the energized state can be switched on and off according to the input fifth switch control signal. It can be appropriately selected according to the purpose.
Examples of the switch unit include mechanical switches such as relays, analog switches made of semiconductors, field effect transistors such as MOSFETs, and the like, as in the case of the first switch and the second switch.

In the case of such a switch unit, the power supply unit has a first power source and a second power source, and the switch unit uses at least one of the first power source and the second power source. It may be possible to electrically connect to one electrode of the electrochromic element and to connect the other electrode of the electrochromic element to a reference potential.
The first power source is not particularly limited and may be appropriately selected depending on the intended purpose. However, the first power source is connected in series with the first switch to generate a voltage corresponding to the current control signal, and the electro. It is preferable that the supply of current to the chromic element can be adjusted.
The second power source is not particularly limited and may be appropriately selected depending on the intended purpose. However, the second power source is connected in series with the second switch to generate a voltage corresponding to the current control signal, and the electro. It is preferable that the supply of current to the chromic element can be adjusted.
A voltage may be applied to the electrochromic element by using either the first power source or the second power source, and the voltage generated from each of the first power source and the second power source may be applied. A voltage may be applied to the electrochromic element due to the difference.

Next, using the second embodiment of the element control device of the present invention, the control of putting the electrochromic element into a colored state, a decoloring state (gradation), a decoloring state, and a coloring holding state in stages. explain.

-Control to put the electrochromic element in a colored state-
As a control for coloring the electrochromic element, the control unit switches the energized state of the first switch and the fourth switch on, and the energized state of the second switch and the third switch. After switching off, the power supply unit supplies a current to the electrochromic element, and when it is determined that the value of the current measured by the current measuring means has reached the threshold value, the electrochromic element is supplied by the power supply unit. It is preferable to adjust so as to stop the supply of current to the element.

-Control to gradually decolorize the electrochromic element-
As a control for gradually decolorizing the electrochromic element, the control unit switches off the energized state from the first switch to the fourth switch, and electrically separates the power supply unit. After that, when the resistance value of the variable resistance is changed to release an electric charge from the electrochromic element and it is determined that the value of the current measured by the current measuring means is equal to or less than the threshold value, the electrochromic element is used. It is preferable to set the resistance value that suppresses the release of electric charge to the variable resistance.

As another control for putting the electrochromic element in a decolorized state, the control unit switches the energized state of the first switch and the fourth switch to off, and the second switch and the third switch are turned off. After switching the energized state of the switch to ON, it is preferable that the power supply unit adjusts the supply of current to the electrochromic element so that the electric charge is discharged from the electrochromic element.

As another control for putting the electrochromic element in a decolorized state, the control unit switches off the energized state from the first switch to the fourth switch, and electrically separates the power supply unit. After that, it is preferable to set an extremely small value for the variable resistor.

-Control to keep the electrochromic element in the colored state-
The control for putting the electrochromic element in the colored holding state is performed after the control unit switches off the energized state from the first switch to the fourth switch and electrically separates the power supply unit. The resistance value is set to the variable resistance so that the current due to the electric charge emitted from the electrochromic element becomes a low current value that can be measured by the current measuring means, and the current value measured by the current measuring means. When it is determined that is equal to or greater than the threshold value, it is preferable to switch the energized state of the first switch and the fourth switch on, and have the power supply unit adjust the supply of current to the electrochromic element. ..

Here, the operation of bringing the electrochromic element into a color-decoloring state using the element control device of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
In each drawing, the same components may be designated by the same reference numerals and duplicate description may be omitted. Further, the number, position, shape, etc. of the following constituent members are not limited to the present embodiment, and can be a preferable number, position, shape, etc. for carrying out the present invention.

First, a control method for coloring an electrochromic element performed by the element control device of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. 1 according to the step represented by S in the flowchart of the flowchart shown in FIG. At the start stage of this process, the EC element 110 is in a decolorized state.

S101: The control unit 140 outputs a resistance value control signal 142 to the variable resistance 121 of the short circuit 120, and sets the resistance value corresponding to the resistance value control signal 142 to the variable resistance 121.
As the resistance value in this step, a resistance value R1 higher than the resistance value of the EC element 110 in a desired colored state is preferable. When the resistance value is the resistance value R1, the current flowing through the short circuit 120 can be reduced, so that the power consumption can be suppressed.
S102: The control unit 140 outputs a current measurement control signal 143 to the current measuring means 122 to start measuring the value of the current flowing through the short circuit 120 (hereinafter, may be referred to as “current value _ID ”). , The signal of the obtained current value _ID is output.
S103: The control unit 140 outputs a current control signal 141 to the power supply unit 151 to start applying a coloring voltage to the EC element 110.
The coloring voltage is preferably a voltage determined based on the correlation data table.
S104: The control unit 140 shifts the process current I _D is determined to be equal to or greater than the threshold value in S105, the current value I _D continues to monitor the current value I _D when it is determined that not more than the threshold value ..
S105: The control unit 140 outputs a current control signal 141 to the power supply unit 151 to stop the application of the coloring voltage to the EC element 110, and ends this process.

Next, the control for gradually decolorizing the electrochromic element performed by the element control device of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. 1 according to the step represented by S in the flowchart of the flowchart shown in FIG. At the start stage of this process, the EC element 110 is colored by an arbitrary method.

S201: The control unit 140 outputs a resistance value control signal 142 to the variable resistance 121 of the short circuit 120, and sets the resistance value R1 corresponding to the resistance value control signal 142 to the variable resistance 121.
S202: The control unit 140 outputs a switch control signal 144 to the first switch 131 and the second switch 132 to switch off the energized state of the first switch 131 and the second switch 132, and the EC element 110. And the power supply unit 151 is electrically separated from the short circuit 120.
By electrically separating the power supply unit 151 from the short circuit 120, it is possible to protect the element control device 10 such as the power supply unit 151 from the discharge current of the colored EC element 110.
S203: The control unit 140 outputs the current measurement control signal 143 to the current measuring means 122, starts the measurement of the current value _ID flowing through the short circuit 120, and outputs the signal of the obtained current value _ID .
S204: The control unit 140 outputs a resistance value control signal 142 to the variable resistor 121, and sets the resistance value of the variable resistor 121 to a resistance value R2 lower than the resistance value of the EC element 110 in the colored state (current state).
By setting the resistance value of the variable resistor 121 to the resistance value R2, it is possible to release an electric charge from the EC element 110 to the variable resistor 121 and reduce the coloring density of the EC element 110.
S205: The control unit 140 shifts the process current I _D is determined to be equal to or greater than the threshold value in S206, the current value I _D continues to monitor the current value I _D when it is determined that not more than the threshold value ..
S206: The control unit 140 outputs a resistance value control signal 142 to the variable resistor 121, sets the resistance value of the variable resistor 121 to a resistance value R3 higher than the resistance value of the EC element 110 in the colored state (current state), and sets the resistance value R3. This process ends.

Next, the control for decoloring the electrochromic element performed by the element control device of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. 1 according to the step represented by S in the flowchart of the flowchart shown in FIG. In the initial stage S301 of this process, the EC element 110 is colored by an arbitrary method.

S302: The control unit 140 outputs a resistance value control signal 142 to the variable resistance 121 of the short circuit 120, and sets the resistance value R1 corresponding to the resistance value control signal 142 to the variable resistance 121.
S303: The control unit 140 outputs the first switch control signal and the second switch control signal 144 to the first switch 131 and the second switch 132, and outputs the first switch 131 and the second switch. The energized state of 132 is switched off, and the power supply unit 151 is electrically separated from the EC element 110 and the short circuit 120.
S304: The control unit 140 outputs a resistance value control signal 142 to the variable resistance 121 of the short circuit 120 to reduce the resistance value of the variable resistance 121 as much as possible, thereby releasing the electric charge captured by the EC element 110. To put it in a decolorized state, and end this process.

Next, the control for decoloring the electrochromic element performed by the element control device of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. 1 according to the step represented by S in the flowchart of the flowchart shown in FIG. In the start stage S401 of this process, the EC element 110 is colored by an arbitrary method.

S402: The control unit 140 outputs a resistance value control signal 142 to the variable resistance 121 of the short circuit 120, and sets the resistance value R1 corresponding to the resistance value control signal 142 to the variable resistance 121.
S403: The control unit 140 outputs the first switch control signal and the second switch control signal 144 to the first switch 131 and the second switch 132, and outputs the first switch 131 and the second switch. The energized state of 132 is switched off, and the power supply unit 151 is electrically separated from the EC element 110 and the short circuit 120.
S404: The control unit 140 outputs the current measurement control signal 143 to the current measuring means 122, starts the measurement of the current value _ID flowing through the short circuit 120, and outputs the signal of the obtained current value _ID .
S405: The control unit 140 outputs a resistance value control signal to the variable resistance 121 of the short circuit 120 to reduce the resistance value of the variable resistance 121 as much as possible, thereby releasing the electric charge captured by the EC element 110. Move to the decolorized state.
S406: The controller 140, the current value I _D has finished determining the present process to be equal to or greater than the threshold value, the current value I _D is shifting to S407 the processing is determined that not more than the threshold value.
In the determination by the control unit 140 in this step, the obtained current value _ID is compared with the correlation data table of the EC element 110 acquired in advance, and the obtained current value _ID is the current of the correlation data table. If it is larger than the value, it is determined that the electric charge that has not been emitted from the EC element 110 remains and there is a coloring residue (disappearing residue), the process is shifted to S407, and a decoloring voltage is applied to the EC element 110 to colorize. I try to eliminate the rest.
S407: The control unit 140 outputs the first switch control signal and the second switch control signal 144 to the first switch 131 and the second switch 132, and outputs the first switch 131 and the second switch. The energized state of 132 is turned on, and the EC element 110 and the short circuit 120 are connected to the power supply unit 151.
S408: The control unit 140 outputs a current control signal 141 to the power supply unit 151 to apply a decolorizing voltage to the EC element 110.
S409: The control unit 140 outputs the first switch control signal and the second switch control signal 144 to the first switch 131 and the second switch 132, and outputs the first switch 131 and the second switch. The energized state of 132 is switched off, the power supply unit 151 is electrically separated from the EC element 110 and the short circuit 120, and the process is shifted to S405.

Next, the control performed by the element control device of the present invention to bring the electrochromic element into the colored holding state will be described with reference to FIG. 1 according to the step represented by S in the flowchart of the flowchart shown in FIG. At the start stage of this process, the EC element 110 is colored by an arbitrary method.

S5011: The control unit 140 outputs a resistance value control signal 142 to the variable resistance 121 of the short circuit 120, and sets the resistance value R1 corresponding to the resistance value control signal 142 to the variable resistance 121.
S502: The control unit 140 outputs the first switch control signal and the second switch control signal 144 to the first switch 131 and the second switch 132, and outputs the first switch 131 and the second switch. The energized state of 132 is switched off, and the power supply unit 151 is electrically separated from the EC element 110 and the short circuit 120.
S503: The control unit 140 outputs the current measurement control signal 143 to the current measuring means 122, starts the measurement of the current value _ID flowing through the short circuit 120, and outputs the signal of the obtained current value _ID .
If the current value _ID is an integrated value and has been shifted from S509, the current value _ID is reset in this step. If the current value _ID is an instantaneous value, the measurement of the current value _ID is continued.
S504: The control unit 140 outputs a resistance value control signal 142 to the variable resistance 121 of the short circuit 120, and sets the resistance value of the variable resistance 121 to a resistance value R4 lower than the resistance value R1 of S501.
The resistance value R4 may be a value as long as the current value flowing through the short circuit 120 can be measured, preferably smaller than the resistance value R1, and not significantly lower than the resistance value of the colored EC element 110. Is more preferable. If the resistance value R4 is much lower than the resistance value of the colored EC element 110, a current suddenly flows through the short circuit 120, and the colored state of the EC element 110 is changed before the colored state is monitored by the current value. It will change a lot.
S505: When the control unit 140 determines that the current value _ID is equal to or higher than the threshold value, the process shifts to S506, and when it is determined that the current value _ID is not equal to or higher than the threshold value, the monitoring of the current value _ID is continued. ..
When the current value _ID is equal to or higher than the threshold value, it is determined that the electric charge is released from the EC element 110 and the colored state cannot be maintained, the process is shifted to S506, and the colored voltage is applied again. There is.
The current value _ID is an integrated value of the current when the colored state changes from dark to light, and is the amount of electric charge emitted from the EC element 110. Further, it may be an instantaneous value instead of an integrated value. When the current value I _D instantaneous value, the control unit 140, the current value I _D is allowed to shift to S506 processing and judged to be greater than or equal to the threshold value, the current value when the current value I _D is less than the threshold value Continue to monitor _ID .
S506: The control unit 140 outputs the first switch control signal and the second switch control signal 144 to the first switch 131 and the second switch 132, and outputs the first switch 131 and the second switch. The energized state of 132 is switched on, and the EC element 110 and the short circuit 120 are connected to the power supply unit 151.
S507: The control unit 140 outputs a resistance value control signal 142 to the variable resistance 121 of the short circuit 120, and sets the resistance value of the variable resistance 121 to the resistance value R1.
S508: The control unit 140 outputs the current control signal 141 to the power supply unit 151 to apply a coloring voltage to the EC element 110.
S509: The control unit 140 outputs the first switch control signal and the second switch control signal 144 to the first switch 131 and the second switch 132, and outputs the first switch 131 and the second switch. The energized state of 132 is switched off, the power supply unit 151 is electrically separated from the EC element 110 and the short circuit 120, and the process is shifted to S503.

Next, the control for keeping the electrochromic element in the colored holding state performed by the element control device of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. 1 according to the step represented by S in the flowchart of the flowchart shown in FIG. At the start stage of this process, the EC element 110 is colored by an arbitrary method. Further, in this process, unlike the control for putting the electrochromic element in the colored holding state shown in FIG. 17, when the preset holding time elapses, the monitoring of the current value is stopped and the process is terminated.

S601: The control unit 140 outputs a resistance value control signal 142 to the variable resistance 121 of the short circuit 120, and sets the resistance value R1 corresponding to the resistance value control signal 142 to the variable resistance 121.
S602: The control unit 140 outputs the first switch control signal and the second switch control signal 144 to the first switch 131 and the second switch 132, and outputs the first switch 131 and the second switch 132. The energized state of is switched off, and the power supply unit 151 is electrically separated from the EC element 110 and the short circuit 120.
S603: The control unit 140 starts measuring the holding time T based on an internal clock or the like.
S604: The control unit 140 outputs the current measurement control signal 143 to the current measuring means 122, starts the measurement of the current value _ID flowing through the short circuit 120, and outputs the signal of the obtained current value _ID .
If the current value _ID is an integrated value and has been shifted from S612, the current value _ID is reset in this step. If the current value _ID is an instantaneous value, the measurement of the current value _ID is continued.
S605: The control unit 140 outputs a resistance value control signal 142 to the variable resistance 121 of the short circuit 120, and sets the resistance value of the variable resistance 121 to the resistance value R2 lower than the resistance value R1.
S606: The control unit 140 ends this process when it determines that the holding time T is equal to or greater than the threshold value, and shifts the process to S607 when it determines that the holding time T is not equal to or greater than the threshold value.
S607: When the control unit 140 determines that the current value I _D1 is equal to or higher than the threshold value, the process shifts to S608, and when it determines that the current value I _D1 is not equal to or higher than the threshold value, the process shifts to S606.
The current value _ID1 is an integrated value of the current when the colored state changes from dark to light, and is the amount of electric charge released from the EC element 110. Further, it may be an instantaneous value instead of an integrated value. When the current value I _D1 instantaneous value, the control unit 140 to shift the process to the current value I _D1 is determined to be equal to or less than the threshold in S608, the current value I _D1 is determined not to be less than or equal to the threshold value The process is shifted to S606.
S608: The control unit 140 outputs the first switch control signal and the second switch control signal 144 to the first switch 131 and the second switch 132, and outputs the first switch 131 and the second switch. The energized state of 132 is turned on, and the EC element 110 and the short circuit 120 are connected to the power supply unit 151.
S609: The control unit 140 outputs a resistance value control signal 142 to the variable resistance 121 of the short circuit 120, and sets the resistance value of the variable resistance 121 to the resistance value R1.
S610: The control unit 140 outputs a current control signal 141 to the power supply unit 151 to apply a coloring voltage to the EC element 110.
S611: The control unit 140 shifts the process current _{I D2} is determined to be equal to or greater than the threshold value in S612, the current value _{I D2} continues to monitor the current value _{I D2} when it is determined that not more than the threshold value ..
The current value _ID2 is an instantaneous value of the current per fixed time when the colored state changes from light color to dark color, and represents a change in the colored state of the EC element 110 as a resistance value change. ..
S612: The control unit 140 outputs the first switch control signal and the second switch control signal 144 to the first switch 131 and the second switch 132, and outputs the first switch 131 and the second switch. The energized state of 132 is switched off, the power supply unit 151 is electrically separated from the EC element 110 and the short circuit 120, and the process is shifted to S604.

Examples of the present invention will be described below, but the present invention is not limited to these examples.

(Example 1)
<Evaluation of volatility of coloring density by voltage (decoloring → coloring)>
Using the element control device 10 (first embodiment) shown in FIG. 1, the resistance value R1 of the variable resistor 121 is set to 8 kΩ, and the threshold value of the current value is set to 10 μA / cm ² per 100 milliseconds as an instantaneous value. The coloring voltage was set to −3.0V, -3.2V, and -3.4V, respectively, and the EC element 110 was put into the coloring state according to the flowchart of the control for making the coloring state shown in FIG.
The transmittance of the absorption maximum wavelength λmax in the visible region (400 nm or more and 800 nm or less) at the center of the display region of the colored EC element 110 was measured using a fiber multi-channel spectroscope (USB4000, manufactured by Ocean Optics), and EC was measured. The fluctuation rate of the coloring density of the EC element 110 with respect to the coloring density determined based on the correlation data table (hereinafter, also referred to as “coloring density A”) indicating the deterioration of the element 110 is obtained by the following equation 1 and described below. It was evaluated according to the criteria of. The results are shown in Table 1.
Rate of change(%)
= (Coloring density A-Coloring density of EC element) x 100 / (Coloring density A) ... Equation 1
[Evaluation criteria]
⊚: Fluctuation rate of the coloring density of the EC element with respect to the coloring density A is less than 1% ◯: Fluctuation rate of the coloring density of the EC element with respect to the coloring density A is 1% or more and less than 5% ×: Coloring density of the EC element with respect to the coloring density A Fluctuation rate of 5% or more

<Yellowing evaluation (decoloring → coloring)>
Using the element control device 10 shown in FIG. 1, the EC element 110 in the colored state is decolorized according to the flow chart of the control for decoloring state shown in FIG. 15, and then the colored state is changed to the colored state shown in FIG. The cycle of returning the EC element 110 to the colored state according to the control flowchart is set as one cycle, 10,000 cycles are repeated, and the yellow index (YI) value is described above as an index of the degree of yellowing of the EC element 110 in the decolorized state. Similar to the color density measurement, the measurement was performed using a fiber multi-channel spectroscope (USB4000, manufactured by Ocean Optics), the difference (ΔYI) from the pre-measured initial value was obtained, and the deterioration of the EC element 110 was determined according to the following criteria. The state of yellowing showing the above was evaluated. The results are shown in Table 1.
[Evaluation criteria]
⊚: ΔYI is less than 5 ○: ΔYI is 5 or more and less than 10 ×: ΔYI is 10 or more

(Example 2)
In the first embodiment, the element control device 10 shown in FIG. 1 is replaced with the element control device 20 shown in FIG. 2, and when the element control device 10 is in the colored state, the circuit state shown in the block diagram shown in FIG. The evaluation was carried out in the same manner as in Example 1 except that the circuit state shown in the block diagram shown in FIG. 9 was used. The results are shown in Table 1.

(Comparative Example 1)
In the first embodiment, the element control device 10 shown in FIG. 1 is replaced with the element control device 30 in which the variable resistor does not exist in the short circuit shown in FIG. 19, except that both electrodes of the EC element 110 are short-circuited. , The same evaluation as in Example 1 was performed. The results are shown in Table 1.

(Comparative Example 2)
In Example 1, the element control device 10 shown in FIG. 1 was evaluated in the same manner as in Example 1 except that the element control device 40 in which the short circuit shown in FIG. 20 did not exist was replaced. The results are shown in Table 1.

From Table 1, it was confirmed that in Examples 1 and 2, the desired coloring density was obtained without deteriorating the electrochromic element.
In Comparative Example 1, it was confirmed that the current was more likely to flow in the short circuit than the electrochromic element, and the electrochromic element was not in a colored state. In Comparative Example 2, it was confirmed that when a high voltage was applied as the coloring voltage, not only the desired coloring density was not obtained, but also the electrochromic element was deteriorated.

(Example 3)
Using the element control device 10 shown in FIG. 1, the coloring voltage is −3.0 V, the threshold value of the current value flowing through the short circuit 120 is 10 μA / cm ² per 100 milliseconds, and the variable resistance 121 of the short circuit 120. The resistance value R1 and the resistance value R3 are set to 20 kΩ, the resistance value R2 is set to 5 kΩ, 3 kΩ, and 1 kΩ, respectively, and the EC element 110 is set according to the control flowchart shown in FIG. The transmission rate of the EC element 110 when the dark color state was gradually changed to the light color state was measured in the same manner as in Example 1 and evaluated in the same manner as in Example 1. The results are shown in Table 2.

(Example 4)
In the third embodiment, the element control device 10 shown in FIG. 1 is replaced with the element control device 20 shown in FIG. 2, and the circuit state of the block diagram showing the stepwise decolorization state shown in FIG. The evaluation was carried out in the same manner as in Example 3 except that the element 110 was gradually decolorized. The results are shown in Table 2.

From Table 2, in Examples 3 and 4, the resistance value of the variable resistor is gradually lowered, and the charge of the electrochromic device is gradually released, so that the electrochromic device is brought to a desired color density. It was confirmed that the key can be controlled.

(Example 5)
<Evaluation of remaining coloring>
Using the element control device 10 shown in FIG. 1, the resistance value R1 of the variable resistor 121 is set to 20 kΩ, the decolorizing voltage is set to 1.0 V, and the threshold value of the current value of the short circuit 120 is set to 10 mC / cm ² as an integrated value. , The transmission rate of the EC element 110 when the colored EC element 110 is in the decolorized state is measured in the same manner as in the first embodiment according to the flowchart of the control for decoloring the state shown in FIG. The same evaluation as in Example 1 was performed as the colored residue.

<Yellow evaluation>
Using the element control device 10 shown in FIG. 1, the EC element 110 in the colored state is decolorized according to the flowchart of the control for decoloring the state shown in FIG. 16, and then the colored state is changed to the colored state shown in FIG. The cycle of returning the EC element 110 to the colored state according to the flow chart of the control to be performed is set as one cycle, 10,000 cycles are repeated, and the value of the yellow index (YI) of the EC element 110 in the decolorized state is set in the same manner as in the first embodiment. The measurement was carried out, and the same evaluation as in Example 1 was performed as the colored residue. The results are shown in Table 3.

(Example 6)
In the fifth embodiment, the element control device 10 shown in FIG. 1 is replaced with the element control device 20 shown in FIG. 2, and the circuit state of the block diagram to be in the decolorized state shown in FIG. 9 is changed. It was evaluated in the same manner as in 5. The results are shown in Table 3.

(Comparative Example 3)
In Example 5, the evaluation was performed in the same manner as in Example 5 except that the element control device shown in FIG. 20 was used. The results are shown in Table 3.

From the results in Table 3, it was confirmed that in Examples 5 and 6, the decolorized state can be achieved without deteriorating the electrochromic element by using the control for decolorizing.

(Example 7)
<Evaluation of the amount of change in coloring density in the coloring retention state>
Using the element control device 10 shown in FIG. 1, the current value threshold value _ID1 is 10 mC / cm ² as an integrated value, and the current value threshold value _ID2 is 10 μA / cm ² as an instantaneous value per 100 milliseconds. , The resistance value R1 of the variable resistor 121 is set to 20 kΩ, R2 is set to 15 kΩ, and the coloring voltage is changed to -2.6V, -2.8V, and -3.0V to maintain the coloring holding state shown in FIG. The electrochromic element was colored according to the flow chart. The coloring density 20 hours after the colored state was measured was measured and judged according to the following criteria.
[Evaluation criteria]
⊚: The amount of change in the coloring density after 20 hours with respect to the initial coloring density is less than 1% ○: The amount of change in the coloring density after 20 hours with respect to the initial coloring density is 1% or more and less than 5% ×: Initial The amount of change in the coloring density after 20 hours with respect to the coloring density is 5% or more.

<Yellow evaluation>
Using the element control device 10 shown in FIG. 1, the EC element 110 in the colored state is decolorized according to the flowchart of the control for decoloring state shown in FIG. 16, and then the colored state is changed to the colored state shown in FIG. The yellow index (YI) value of the EC element 110 in the decolorized state is measured in the same manner as in Example 1 by repeating 10,000 cycles with the cycle of returning the EC element 110 to the colored state as one cycle according to the flow chart of the control. Then, it was evaluated in the same manner as in Example 1. The results are shown in Table 4.
[Evaluation criteria]
⊚: Fluctuation from initial value (ΔYI) is less than 5 ○: Fluctuation from initial value (ΔYI) is 5 or more and less than 10 ×: Fluctuation from initial value (ΔYI) is 10 or more

(Example 8)
In Example 7, the element control device 10 shown in FIG. 1 was evaluated in the same manner as in Example 7 except that the element control device 20 shown in FIG. 2 was replaced. The results are shown in Table 4.

(Comparative Example 4)
In Example 7, the evaluation was carried out in the same manner as in Example 7 except that the coloring voltage was continuously applied to maintain the coloring. The results are shown in Table 4.

From Table 4, it was confirmed that in Examples 7 and 8, the coloring density could be maintained for 20 hours, and yellowing, which is one of the deteriorations of the electrochromic device, could be suppressed.
In Comparative Example 4, it was confirmed that the yellowing was large and the electrochromic element was deteriorated, and the coloring could not be maintained.

(Example 9)
<Power consumption evaluation>
The circuit shown in FIG. 7 is formed by connecting two button batteries (trade name: SR621W, manufactured by Sony Corporation) in series as the power supply unit 151 to the element control device 20 and using the element control device 20 shown in FIG. In this state, −3.0 V was applied as a coloring voltage between both electrodes of the EC element 110 to bring the EC element 110 into a colored state. At this time, the transmittance of the absorption maximum wavelength λmax in the visible region (400 nm or more and 800 nm or less) in the center of the display region of the colored EC element 110 is measured by the fiber multi-channel spectroscope, and the light transmission of the EC element 110 is transmitted. It was confirmed that the rate changed from 75% to 20%.
Next, according to the flow chart of the control for decoloring shown in FIG. 16, the resistance value R1 of the variable resistor 121 is set to 20 kΩ, and the threshold value of the current value _ID flowing in the short circuit is set to 10 mC / cm ² as an integrated value. After connecting the short circuit 120 to the EC element 110 in the circuit state shown in FIG. 11, the power supply unit 151 is separated from the EC element 110, the short circuit 120, and the current measuring means 122, and the resistance value of the variable resistance 121 is set. It was set to 10Ω.
When the measurement of the current value of the short circuit was started and it was determined that the current value was equal to or higher than the threshold value, a decolorizing voltage of 1.0 V was applied.
When it is determined that the current value is equal to or lower than the threshold value, it is considered that the cycle of changing from the colored state to the decolorized state has been completed once, and the power consumption is repeatedly developed and decolorized by the EC element 110. Evaluated whether it can be done. The same procedure was performed 5 times, and the average value of the number of repetitions was calculated. The results are shown in Table 5.

(Comparative Example 5)
In Example 9, the evaluation was carried out in the same manner as in Example 9 except that the short circuit 120 was not used and the circuit state was changed to the decolorized state shown in FIG. The results are shown in Table 5.

From the results of Example 9 in Table 5, it is possible to reduce the power consumption during the decoloring drive and improve the number of repetitions of color development and decolorization by discharging the electric charge of the electrochromic element in the short circuit. I understood. Further, in Comparative Example 5, when the electric charge of the electrochromic element was discharged without using the short circuit, the number of repetitions of the color development and decolorization was reduced to about 1/2 of that when the short circuit was used. It turned out that the power consumption was large.

Examples of aspects of the present invention are as follows.
<1> An electrochromic element, a power supply unit electrically connected to the electrochromic element and adjusting the supply of current to the electrochromic element, and a variable resistor electrically connected in parallel to the electrochromic element. And, based on the current measuring means electrically connected to the electrochromic element and measuring the value of the current and the value of the current measured by the current measuring means, the power supply unit transfers the current to the electrochromic element. It is an element control device characterized by having a control unit for adjusting the supply.
<2> When the control unit supplies a current to the electrochromic element by the power supply unit and determines that the value of the current measured by the current measuring means has reached the threshold value, the electro is produced by the power supply unit. The element control device according to <1>, which is adjusted so as to stop the supply of electric current to the chromic element.
<3> The power supply unit is further provided with a switch unit that can electrically separate the power supply unit from the electrochromic element, the variable resistance, and the current measuring means, and the control unit electrically charges the power supply unit with the switch unit. When it is determined that the value of the current measured by the current measuring means is equal to or less than the threshold value, the electric charge is discharged from the electrochromic element by changing the resistance value of the variable resistance. The element control device according to any one of <1> to <2>, wherein the resistance value for suppressing the emission of electric charge from the electrochromic element is set to the variable resistance.
<4> The first switch, which is connected in series between the power supply unit and one electrode of the electrochromic element and can switch the energized state on and off, the second power supply, and the switch unit. A second switch, which is connected in series with the other electrode of the electrochromic element and can switch the energized state on and off, and one electrode of the electrochromic element and the reference potential are connected in series. It has a third switch capable of switching the energized state on and off, and a fourth switch connected in series between the other electrode of the electrochromic element and the reference potential and capable of switching the energized state on and off. The element control device according to <3>.
<5> After the control unit switches the energized state of the first switch and the fourth switch to on, and switches the energized state of the second switch and the third switch to off, the power supply. The unit supplies a current to the electrochromic element, and when it is determined that the value of the current measured by the current measuring means has reached the threshold value, the electrochromic element is adjusted to stop supplying the current. The element control device according to <4>.
<6> The control unit switches the energized state from the first switch to the fourth switch to off, electrically separates the power supply unit, and then changes the resistance value of the variable resistance. When the electric charge is emitted from the electrochromic element and the current value measured by the current measuring means is determined to be equal to or less than the threshold value, the resistance value for suppressing the electric charge emission from the electrochromic element is set to the variable resistance. The element control device according to <4>, which is set to.
<7> After the control unit switches the energized state of the first switch and the fourth switch to off, switches the energized state of the second switch and the third switch to on, and then turns on the power supply. The element control device according to <4>, wherein the unit adjusts the supply of electric current to the electrochromic element so that electric charges are emitted from the electrochromic element.
<8> After the control unit switches off the energized state from the first switch to the fourth switch and electrically separates the first power supply and the second power supply, there is no limit. The element control device according to <4>, wherein a small value is set in the variable resistor.
<9> The control unit switches the energized state from the first switch to the fourth switch to off, electrically separates the power supply unit, and then depends on the electric charge released from the electrochromic element. When the resistance value is set to the variable resistance so that the current becomes a low current value that can be measured by the current measuring means, and it is determined that the current value measured by the current measuring means is equal to or more than the threshold value. The element control device according to <4>, wherein the energized state of the first switch and the fourth switch is switched on, and the supply of current to the electrochromic element is adjusted by the power supply unit.
<10> The power supply unit has a first power supply and a second power supply, and the switch unit uses at least one of the first power supply and the second power supply as one electrode of the electrochromic element. The element control device according to any one of <1> to <9>, wherein the other electrode of the electrochromic element can be electrically connected to the reference potential.
<11> Further having a switch unit capable of electrically separating the power supply unit from the electrochromic element, the variable resistor, and the current measuring means.
The control unit
After the power supply unit is electrically separated by the switch unit, the resistance value of the variable resistor is changed as small as possible to release an electric charge from the electrochromic element to any one of <1> to <10>. The element control device according to the above.
<12> In an element control device having an electrochromic element, a power supply unit, a variable resistance, a current measuring means, and a control unit, a current is supplied to the electrochromic element by the power supply unit and adjusted by the variable resistance. The value of the generated current is measured by using the current measuring means, and based on the value of the current measured by the current measuring means, the current supplied from the power supply unit by the control unit is used by the power supply unit. This is an element control method, which comprises adjusting the current.

The element control device according to any one of <1> to <11> and the element control method according to <12> can solve the conventional problems and achieve the object of the present invention. it can.

10, 20 Element control device 110 Electrochromic element 112 1st electrode 115 2nd electrode 120 Short circuit 121 Variable resistance 122 Current measuring means 131 1st switch 132 2nd switch 133 3rd switch 134 4th switch 135 Fifth switch 140 Control unit 141 Current control signal 142 Resistance value control signal 143 Current measurement control signal 144 Switch control signal 151 Power supply unit 152 First power supply 153 Second power supply 154 System power supply

Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2006-153925

Claims (6)

With electrochromic elements
A power supply unit that is electrically connected to the electrochromic element and adjusts the supply of current to the electrochromic element.
A variable resistor electrically connected in parallel to the electrochromic element,
A current measuring means that is electrically connected in series with the variable resistor and measures the value of the current of the variable resistor .
An element control device comprising a control unit for adjusting the supply of a current to the electrochromic element by the power supply unit based on the value of the current measured by the current measuring means. The control unit
A current is supplied to the electrochromic element by the power supply unit.
The element control according to claim 1, wherein when it is determined that the value of the current measured by the current measuring means has reached the threshold value, the power supply unit is adjusted to stop the supply of the current to the electrochromic element. apparatus. Further having a switch unit capable of electrically separating the power supply unit from the electrochromic element, the variable resistor, and the current measuring means.
The control unit
After the power supply unit is electrically separated by the switch unit, the resistance value of the variable resistor is changed to release an electric charge from the electrochromic element.
Any of claims 1 and 2 in which the resistance value for suppressing the release of electric charge from the electrochromic element is set in the variable resistance when it is determined that the value of the current measured by the current measuring means is equal to or less than the threshold value. The element control device described in. The power supply unit has a first power supply and a second power supply.
The switch unit makes it possible to electrically connect at least one of the first power source and the second power source to one electrode of the electrochromic element, and connect the other electrode of the electrochromic element to a reference potential. The element control device according to claim 3, which is possible. Further having a switch unit capable of electrically separating the power supply unit from the electrochromic element, the variable resistor, and the current measuring means.
The control unit
The element control device according to claim 4, wherein the power supply unit is electrically separated by the switch unit, and then the resistance value of the variable resistor is changed to an extremely small value to release an electric charge from the electrochromic element. In the element control device according to any one of claims 1 to 5 ,
A current is supplied to the electrochromic element by the power supply unit, and the current is supplied to the electrochromic element.
The value of the current adjusted by the variable resistor is measured by using the current measuring means.
An element control method comprising: adjusting a current supplied from the power supply unit by the control unit based on the value of the current measured by the current measuring means by using the power supply unit.

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