US5751467A
Expired / Lapsed
US
⏱️ 0.0 years remaining
Variable reflectance automobile mirror
Assignee: Gentex Corp
•
Filing: 1992-04-23
•
Granted: 1998-05-12
•
Expires: 2012-04-23
Abstract
Abstract The present invention provides variable reflectance automobile mirrors wherein the component of variable transmittance is a single-compartment, self-erasing, solution-phase electrochromic device.
Inventors
- 👤 Harlan J. Byker
Bibliographic Details
Application Number
—
Jurisdiction
US
Data Source
google_patents
Last Synchronized
2026-11-03 06:22
CPC Classifications
C; C07; C07D; C07D498/00; C07D498/02; C07D498/04; B; B60; B60R; B60R1/00; B60R1/02; B60R1/08; B60R1/083; B60R1/088; C09; C09K; C09K9/00; C09K9/02; G; G01; G01R; G01R13/00; G01R13/40; G02; G02F; G02F1/00; G02F1/01; G02F1/15; G02F1/1503; G02F1/153; G02F1/1533; G02F1/157; G02F2001/1502; G02F1/1514; G02F2001/15145
Claims Analysis
Total Claims: 120
Claim 1
Independent Claim
236 words
A variable reflectance rearview mirror for a motor vehicle, (A) wherein the variable reflectance is provided by a component of reversibly variable transmittance which is a single-compartment, self-erasing, solution-phase electrochromic device, wherein the solution of reversibly variable transmittance is between and in contact with two planar, parallel, spaced-apart walls, at least one of which is transparent and each of which, on the side in contact with said solution, is coated with an electrode layer of electrically conductive material, wherein the separation between the electrode layers is between about 0.0025 cm and about 0.050 cm, provided that, if one of said walls is not transparent, said non-transparent wall comprises a reflecting layer of high reflectance material which reflects, through said solution and the transparent wall, light which reaches said reflecting layer after entering the solution through the transparent wall, and wherein the solution of reversibly variable transmittance is held in a space defined by said two planar, parallel, spaced-apart walls, and a periphery defined by an epoxy seal in which are embedded glass beads, which are in contact with the sides of said walls, which are in contact with said solution, and which hold apart said walls and (B) wherein, if both of said walls are transparent, the mirror comprises a reflecting layer of high reflectance material which reflects, through the solution of the electrochromic device, light which reaches said reflecting layer after passing through said solution.
Claim 2
Dependent Claim
236 words
A variable reflectance rearview mirror for a motor vehicle, (A) wherein the variable reflectance is provided by a component of reversibly variable transmittance which is a single-compartment, self-erasing, solution-phase electrochromic device, wherein the solution of reversibly variable transmittance is between and in contact with two planar, parallel, spaced-apart walls, at least one of which is transparent and each of which, on the side in contact with said solution, is coated with an electrode layer of electrically conductive material, wherein the separation between the electrode layers is between about 0.0025 cm and about 0.050 cm, provided that, if one of said walls is not transparent, said non-transparent wall comprises a reflecting layer of high reflectance material which reflects, through said solution and the transparent wall, light which reaches said reflecting layer after entering the solution through the transparent wall, and wherein the solution of reversibly variable transmittance is held in a space defined by said two planar, parallel, spaced-apart walls, and a periphery defined by an epoxy seal in which are embedded glass beads, which are in contact with the sides of said walls, which are in contact with said solution, and which hold apart said walls and (B) wherein, if both of said walls are transparent, the mirror comprises a reflecting layer of high reflectance material which reflects, through the solution of the electrochromic device, light which reaches said reflecting layer after passing through said solution.
Claim 3
Dependent Claim
21 words
A mirror according to claim 1 wherein the component of reversibly variable transmittance provides continuously variable reflectance and is gray-scale controllable.
Claim 4
Dependent Claim
44 words
A mirror according to claim 2 wherein the reflectance is capable of being reduced from greater than 70% to less than 20% in less than 10 seconds with a potential difference of less than 1.4 volts between the electrode layers of the electrochromic device.
Claim 5
Dependent Claim
44 words
A mirror according to claim 1 wherein the reflectance is capable of being reduced from greater than 70% to less than 20% in less than 10 seconds with a potential difference of less than 1.4 volts between the electrode layers of the electrochromic device.
Claim 6
Dependent Claim
142 words
A mirror according to any one of claims 2, 3 and 4 wherein, in the one electrochromic device, the solution of variable transmittance comprises: (A) a solvent; (B) a cathodic electrochromic compound which, in a voltammogram done in the solvent at room temperature, displays at least two chemically reversible reduction waves, with the first of said reductions accompanied by a increase in molar extinction coefficient at at least one wavelength in the visible range; (C) an anodic electrochromic compound which, in a voltammogram done in the solvent at room temperature, displays at least two chemically reversible oxidation waves, with the first of said oxidations accompanied by an increase in molar extinction coefficient at at least one wavelength in the visible range; and (D) if all cathodic and anodic compounds in their zero potential equilibrium states are not ionic, an inert current-carrying electrolyte.
Claim 7
Dependent Claim
19 words
A mirror according to claim 5 wherein, in the solution of reversibly variable transmittance, the solvent is propylene carbonate.
Claim 8
Dependent Claim
67 words
A variable reflectance rearview mirror for a motor vehicle, wherein the variable reflectance is provided by a component of reversibly variable transmittance, which is a single-compartment, self-erasing, solution-phase electrochromic device, wherein the solution of reversibly variable transmittance comprises: (A) a non-aqueous solvent; (B) a cathodic electrochromic compound; (C) 5,10-dihydro-5,10-dimethylphenazine; and (D) if all cathodic compounds in their zero-potential equilibrium states are not ionic, an inert, current-carrying electrolyte.
Claim 9
Dependent Claim
67 words
A variable reflectance rearview mirror for a motor vehicle, wherein the variable reflectance is provided by a component of reversibly variable transmittance, which is a single-compartment, self-erasing, solution-phase electrochromic device, wherein the solution of reversibly variable transmittance comprises: (A) a non-aqueous solvent; (B) a cathodic electrochromic compound; (C) 5,10-dihydro-5,10-dimethylphenazine; and (D) if all cathodic compounds in their zero-potential equilibrium states are not ionic, an inert, current-carrying electrolyte.
Claim 10
Dependent Claim
141 words
A mirror according to claim 7 wherein, in the electrochromic device, the solution of reversibly variable transmittance is between and in contact with two planar, parallel, spaced-apart walls, at least one of which is transparent and each of which, on the side in contact with said solution, is coated with an electrode layer of electrically conductive material, provided that, if one of said walls is not transparent, said non-transparent wall comprises a reflecting layer of high reflectance material which reflects, through said solution and the transparent wall, light which reaches said reflecting layer after entering the solution through the transparent wall and (B) wherein, if both of said walls are transparent, the mirror comprises a reflecting layer of high reflectance material which reflects, through the solution of the electrochromic device, light which reaches said reflecting layer after passing through said solution.
Claim 11
Dependent Claim
44 words
A mirror according to claim 8 wherein the reflectance is capable of being reduced from greater than 70% to less than 20% in less than 10 seconds with a potential difference of less than 1.4 volts between the electrode layers of the electrochromic device.
Claim 12
Dependent Claim
19 words
A mirror according to claim 8 wherein the separation between the electrode layers is between 0.0025 and 0.050 cm.
Claim 13
Dependent Claim
44 words
A mirror according to claim 10 wherein the reflectance is capable of being reduced from greater than 70% to less than 20% in less than 10 seconds with a potential difference of less than 1.4 volts between the electrode layers of the electrochromic device.
Claim 14
Dependent Claim
67 words
A mirror according to claim 8 wherein, in the electrochromic device, the solution of reversibly variable transmittance is held in a space defined by said two planar, parallel, spaced-apart walls, and a periphery defined by an epoxy seal in which are embedded glass beads, which are in contact with the sides of said walls, which are in contact with said solution, and which hold apart said walls.
Claim 15
Dependent Claim
44 words
A mirror according to claim 12 wherein the reflectance is capable of being reduced from greater than 70% to less than 20% in less than 10 seconds with a potential difference of less than 1.4 volts between the electrode layers of the electrochromic device.
Claim 16
Dependent Claim
19 words
A mirror according to claim 12 wherein the separation between the electrode layers is between 0.0025 and 0.050 cm.
Claim 17
Dependent Claim
44 words
A mirror according to claim 14 wherein the reflectance is capable of being reduced from greater than 70% to less than 20% in less than 10 seconds with a potential difference of less than 1.4 volts between the electrode layers of the electrochromic device.
Claim 18
Dependent Claim
21 words
A mirror according to claim 7 wherein the component of reversibly variable transmittance provides continuously variable reflectance and is gray-scale controllable.
Claim 19
Dependent Claim
44 words
A mirror according to claim 16 wherein the reflectance is capable of being reduced from greater than 70% to less than 20% in less than 10 seconds with a potential difference of less than 1.4 volts between the electrode layers of the electrochromic device.
Claim 20
Dependent Claim
142 words
A mirror according to claim 16 (A) wherein, in the electrochromic device, the solution of reversibly variable transmittance is between and in contact with two planar, parallel, spaced-apart walls, at least one of which it transparent and each of which, on the side in contact with said solution, is coated with an electrode layer of electrically conductive material, provided that, it one of said walls is not transparent, said non-transparent wall comprises a reflecting layer of high reflectance material which reflects, through said solution and the transparent wall, light which reaches said reflecting layer after entering the solution through the transparent wall and (B) wherein, if both of said walls are transparent, the mirror comprises a reflecting layer of high reflectance material which reflects, through the solution of the electrochromic device, light which reaches said reflecting layer after passing through said solution.
Claim 21
Dependent Claim
44 words
A mirror according to claim 18 wherein the reflectance is capable of being reduced from greater than 70% to less than 20% in less than 10 seconds with a potential difference of less than 1.4 volts between the electrode layers of the electrochromic device.
Claim 22
Dependent Claim
19 words
A mirror according to claim 18 wherein the separation between the electrode layers is between 0.0025 and 0.050 cm.
Claim 23
Dependent Claim
44 words
A mirror according to claim 20 wherein the reflectance is capable of being reduced from greater than 70% to less than 20% in less than 10 seconds with a potential difference of less than 1.4 volts between the electrode layers of the electrochromic device.
Claim 24
Dependent Claim
67 words
A mirror according to claim 18 wherein, in the electrochromic device, the solution of reversibly variable transmittance is held in a space defined by said two planar, parallel, spaced-apart walls, and a periphery defined by an epoxy seal in which are embedded glass beads, which are in contact with the sides of said walls, which are in contact with said solution, and which hold apart said walls.
Claim 25
Dependent Claim
19 words
A mirror according to claim 22 wherein the separation between the electrode layers is between 0.0025 and 0.050 cm.
Claim 26
Dependent Claim
44 words
A mirror according to claim 23 wherein the reflectance is capable of being reduced from greater than 70% to less than 20% in less than 10 seconds with a potential difference of less than 1.4 volts between the electrode layers of the electrochromic device.
Claim 27
Dependent Claim
44 words
A mirror according to claim 12 wherein the reflectance is capable of being reduced from greater than 70% to less than 20% in less than 10 seconds with a potential difference of less than 1.4 volts between the electrode layers of the electrochromic device.
Claim 28
Dependent Claim
29 words
A mirror according to any one of claims 1, 7, 9-11, 15-17, 19-21, 29 and 25 wherein, in the solution of reversibly variable transmittance, the solvent is propylene carbonate.
Claim 29
Dependent Claim
33 words
A mirror according to any one of claims 7-25 wherein, in the solution of reversibly variable transmittance in its zero-potential equilibrium state, all of the cathodic electrochromic compounds are salts of viologen dications.
Claim 30
Dependent Claim
19 words
A mirror according to claim 27 wherein, in the solution of reversibly variable transmittance, the solvent is propylene carbonate.
Claim 31
Dependent Claim
52 words
A mirror according to claim 27 wherein, in the solution of reversibly variable transmittance in its zero-potential equilibrium state, the concentration at room temperature of 5,10-dihydro-5,10-dimethylphenazine is between 0.01 and 0.1 molar and the total concentration at room temperature of all of the viologen dications together is between 0.01 and 0.1 molar.
Claim 32
Dependent Claim
20 words
A mirror according to claim 29 wherein the viologen dications are selected from the group consisting of 1,1'-dimethyl-4,4'-bipyridinium and 1,1'-dibenzyl-4,4'-bipyridinium.
Claim 33
Dependent Claim
11 words
A mirror according to claim 30 the solvent is propylene carbonate.
Claim 34
Dependent Claim
14 words
A mirror according to claim 31 wherein the viologen salts are the difluoroborate salts.
Claim 35
Dependent Claim
60 words
A variable reflectance rearview mirror for a motor vehicle, wherein the variable reflectance is provided by a component of reversibly variable transmittance, which is a single-compartment, self-erasing, solution-phase electrochromic device, wherein the solution of reversibly variable transmittance comprises: (A) a non-aqueous solvent; (B) a viologen salt; and (C) an anodic electrochromic compound which is neutral in its zero-potential equilibrium state.
Claim 36
Dependent Claim
60 words
A variable reflectance rearview mirror for a motor vehicle, wherein the variable reflectance is provided by a component of reversibly variable transmittance, which is a single-compartment, self-erasing, solution-phase electrochromic device, wherein the solution of reversibly variable transmittance comprises: (A) a non-aqueous solvent; (B) a viologen salt; and (C) an anodic electrochromic compound which is neutral in its zero-potential equilibrium state.
Claim 37
Dependent Claim
21 words
A mirror according to claim 33 wherein the component of reversibly variable transmittance provides continuously variable reflectance and is gray-scale controllable.
Claim 38
Dependent Claim
44 words
A mirror according to claim 34 wherein the reflectance is capable of being reduced from greater than 70% to less than 20% in less than 10 seconds with a potential difference of less than 1.4 volts between the electrode layers of the electrochromic device.
Claim 39
Dependent Claim
142 words
A mirror according to claim 34 (A) wherein, in the electrochromic device, the solution of reversibly variable transmittance is between and in contact with two planar, parallel, spaced-apart walls, at least one of which said transparent and each of which on the side in contact with said solution, is coated with an electrode layer of electrically conductive material, provided that, if one of said walls is not transparent, said non-transparent wall comprises a reflecting layer of high reflectance material which reflects, through said solution and the transparent wall, light which reaches said reflecting layer after entering the solution through the transparent wall and (B) wherein, if both of said walls are transparent, the mirror comprises a reflecting layer of high reflectance material which reflects, through the solution of the electrochromic device, light which reaches said reflecting layer after passing through said solution.
Claim 40
Dependent Claim
20 words
A mirror according to claim 36 wherein the separation between the electrode layers is between 0.0025 cm and 0.050 cm.
Claim 41
Dependent Claim
44 words
A mirror according to claim 37 wherein the reflectance is capable of being reduced from greater than 70% to less than 20% in less than 10 seconds with a potential difference of less than 1.4 volts between the electrode layers of the electrochromic device.
Claim 42
Dependent Claim
67 words
A mirror according to claim 36 wherein, in the electrochromic device, the solution of reversibly variable transmittance is held in a space defined by said two planar, parallel, spaced-apart walls, and a periphery defined by an epoxy seal in which are embedded glass beads, which are in contact with the sides of said walls, which are in contact with said solution, and which hold apart said walls.
Claim 43
Dependent Claim
44 words
A mirror according to claim 39 wherein the reflectance is capable of being reduced from greater than 70% to less than 20% in less than 10 seconds with a potential difference of less than 1.4 volts between the electrode layers of the electrochromic device.
Claim 44
Dependent Claim
19 words
A mirror according to claim 39 wherein the separation between the electrode layers is between 0.025 and 0.050 cm.
Claim 45
Dependent Claim
44 words
A mirror according to claim 41 wherein the reflectance is capable of being reduced from greater than 70% to less than 20% in less than 10 seconds with a potential difference of less than 1.4 volts between the electrode layers of the electrochromic device.
Claim 46
Dependent Claim
142 words
A mirror according to claim 33 (A) wherein, in the electrochromic device, the solution of reversibly variable transmittance is between and in contact with two planar, parallel, spaced-apart walls, at least one of which is transparent and each of which, on the side in contact with said solution, is coated with an electrode layer of electrically conductive material, provided that, if one of said walls is not transparent, said non-transparent wall comprises a reflecting layer of high reflectance material which reaches through said solution and the transparent wall, light which reaches said reflecting layer after entering the solution through the transparent wall and (B) wherein, if both of said walls are transparent, the mirror comprises a reflecting layer of high reflectance material which reflects, through the solution of the electrochromic device, light which reaches said reflecting layer after passing through said solution.
Claim 47
Dependent Claim
44 words
A mirror according to claim 43 wherein the reflectance is capable of being reduced from greater than 70% to less than 20% in less than 10 seconds with a potential difference of less than 1.4 volts between the electrode layers of the electrochromic device.
Claim 48
Dependent Claim
19 words
A mirror according to claim 43 the separation between the electrode layers is between 0.0025 cm and 0.050 cm.
Claim 49
Dependent Claim
44 words
A mirror according to claim 45 wherein the reflectance is capable of being reduced from greater than 70% to less than 20% in less than 10 seconds with a potential difference of less than 1.4 volts between the electrode layers of the electrochromic device.
Claim 50
Dependent Claim
67 words
A mirror according to claim 43 wherein, in the electrochromic device, the solution of reversibly variable transmittance is held in a space defined by said two planar, parallel, spaced-apart walls, and a periphery defined by an epoxy seal in which are embedded glass beads, which are in contact with the sides of said walls, which are in contact with said solution, and which hold apart said walls.
Claim 51
Dependent Claim
44 words
A mirror according to claim 47 wherein the reflectance is capable of being reduced from greater than 70% to less than 20% in less than 10 seconds with a potential difference of less than 1.4 volts between the electrode layers of the electrochromic device.
Claim 52
Dependent Claim
19 words
A mirror according to claim 47 wherein the separation between the electrode layers is between 0.0025 and 0.050 cm.
Claim 53
Dependent Claim
44 words
A mirror according to claim 49 wherein the reflectance is capable of being reduced from greater than 70% to less than 20% in less than 10 seconds with a potential difference of less than 1.4 volts between the electrode layers of the electrochromic device.
Claim 54
Dependent Claim
44 words
A mirror according to claim 36 wherein the reflectance is capable of being reduced from greater than 70% to less than 20% in less than 10 seconds with a potential difference of less than 1.4 volts between the electrode layers of the electrochromic device.
Claim 55
Dependent Claim
32 words
A mirror according to any one of claims 33-51 wherein, in the solution of reversibly variable transmittance, the viologen salts are selected from the group consisting of salts of 1,1'-dimethyl-4,4'-bipyridinium and 1,1'-dibenzyl-4,4'-bipyridinium.
Claim 56
Dependent Claim
60 words
A mirror according to claim 52 wherein, in the solution of reversibly variable transmittance in its zero-potential equilibrium state, the solvent is propylene carbonate, the concentration at room temperature of the anodic electrochromic compound is between 0.01 and 0.1 molar and the total concentration at room temperature of all of the viologen dications together is between 0.01 and 0.1 molar.
Claim 57
Dependent Claim
22 words
A mirror according to any one of claims 33-51 wherein, in the solution of reversibly variable transmittance, the solvent is propylene carbonate.
Claim 58
Dependent Claim
257 words
A variable reflectance rearview mirror for a motor vehicle, (A) wherein the variable reflectance is provided by a component of reversibly variable transmittance which is a self-erasing electrochromic device, wherein the medium of reversibly variable transmittance is between and in contact with two planar, parallel, spaced-apart walls, at least one of which is transparent and each of which, on the side in contact with said medium, is coated with an electrode layer of electrically conductive material, provided that, if one of said walls is not transparent, said non-transparent wall comprises a reflecting layer of high reflectance material which reflects, through said medium and the transparent wall, light which reaches said reflecting layer after entering the medium through the transparent wall, and wherein the medium of reversibly variable transmittance is held in a space defined by said two planar, parallel, spaced-apart walls, and a periphery defined by an epoxy seal in which are embedded glass beads, which are in contact with the sides of said walls, which are in contact with said medium, and which hold apart said walls and (B) wherein, if both of said walls are transparent, the mirror comprises a reflecting layer of high reflectance material which reflects, through the medium of the electrochromic device, light which reaches said reflecting layer after passing through said mediums and wherein the reflectance is capable of being reduced from greater than 70% to less than 20% in less than 10 seconds with a potential difference of less than 1.4 volts between the electrode layers of the electrochromic device.
Claim 59
Dependent Claim
257 words
A variable reflectance rearview mirror for a motor vehicle, (A) wherein the variable reflectance is provided by a component of reversibly variable transmittance which is a self-erasing electrochromic device, wherein the medium of reversibly variable transmittance is between and in contact with two planar, parallel, spaced-apart walls, at least one of which is transparent and each of which, on the side in contact with said medium, is coated with an electrode layer of electrically conductive material, provided that, if one of said walls is not transparent, said non-transparent wall comprises a reflecting layer of high reflectance material which reflects, through said medium and the transparent wall, light which reaches said reflecting layer after entering the medium through the transparent wall, and wherein the medium of reversibly variable transmittance is held in a space defined by said two planar, parallel, spaced-apart walls, and a periphery defined by an epoxy seal in which are embedded glass beads, which are in contact with the sides of said walls, which are in contact with said medium, and which hold apart said walls and (B) wherein, if both of said walls are transparent, the mirror comprises a reflecting layer of high reflectance material which reflects, through the medium of the electrochromic device, light which reaches said reflecting layer after passing through said mediums and wherein the reflectance is capable of being reduced from greater than 70% to less than 20% in less than 10 seconds with a potential difference of less than 1.4 volts between the electrode layers of the electrochromic device.
Claim 60
Dependent Claim
21 words
A mirror according to claim 55 wherein the component of reversibly variable transmittance provides continuously variable reflectance and is gray-scale controllable.
Claim 61
Dependent Claim
87 words
A variable reflectance rearview mirror for a motor vehicle, wherein the variable reflectance is provided by a component of reversibly variable transmittance, which is a self-erasing electrochromic device having a layer of reflective material which reflects, through said reversibly variable transmittance component of said electrochromic device, light which reaches said reflecting layer after passing through said component, wherein the medium of reversibly variable transmittance comprises: (A) a non-aqueous solvent; (B) a viologen salt; and (C) an anodic electrochromic compound which is neutral in its zero-potential equilibrium state.
Claim 62
Dependent Claim
87 words
A variable reflectance rearview mirror for a motor vehicle, wherein the variable reflectance is provided by a component of reversibly variable transmittance, which is a self-erasing electrochromic device having a layer of reflective material which reflects, through said reversibly variable transmittance component of said electrochromic device, light which reaches said reflecting layer after passing through said component, wherein the medium of reversibly variable transmittance comprises: (A) a non-aqueous solvent; (B) a viologen salt; and (C) an anodic electrochromic compound which is neutral in its zero-potential equilibrium state.
Claim 63
Dependent Claim
21 words
A mirror according to claim 57 wherein the component of reversibly variable transmittance provides continuously variable reflectance and is gray-scale controllable.
Claim 64
Dependent Claim
44 words
A mirror according to claim 58 wherein the reflectance is capable of being reduced from greater than 70% to less than 20% in less than 10 seconds with a potential difference of less than 1.4 volts between the electrode layers of the electrochromic device.
Claim 65
Dependent Claim
142 words
A mirror according to claim 58 (A) wherein, it the electrochromic device, the medium of reversibly variable transmittance is between and In contact with two planar, parallel, spaced-apart walls, at least one of which is transparent and each of which, on the side in contact with said medium, is coated with an electrode layer of electrically conductive material, provided that, if one of said walls is not transparent, said non-transparent wall comprises a reflecting layer of high reflectance material which reflects, through said medium and the transparent wall, light which reaches said reflecting layer after entering the medium through the transparent wall and (B) wherein, if both of said walls are transparent, the mirror comprises a reflecting layer of high reflectance material which reflects, through the medium of the electrochromic device, light which reaches said reflecting layer after passing through said medium.
Claim 66
Dependent Claim
44 words
A mirror according to claim 60 wherein the reflectance is capable of being reduced from greater than 70% to less than 20% in less than 10 seconds with a potential difference of less than 1.4 volts between the electrode layers of the electrochromic device.
Claim 67
Dependent Claim
67 words
A mirror according to claim 60 wherein, in the electrochromic device, the medium of reversibly variable transmittance is held in a space defined by said two planar, parallel, spaced-apart walls, and a periphery defined by an epoxy seal in which are embedded glass beads, which are in contact with the sides of said walls, which are in contact with said medium, and which hold apart said walls.
Claim 68
Dependent Claim
44 words
A mirror according to claim 62 wherein the reflectance is capable of being reduced from greater than 70% to less than 20% in less than 10 seconds with a potential difference of less than 1.4 volts between the electrode layers of the electrochromic device.
Claim 69
Dependent Claim
142 words
A mirror according to claim 57 (A) wherein, in the electrochromic device, the medium of reversibly variable transmittance is between and in contact with two planar, parallel spaced-apart walls, at least one of which is transparent and each of which, on the side in contact with said medium, is coated with an electrode layer of electrically conductive material provided that, if one of said walls is not transparent, said non-transparent wall comprises a reflecting layer of high reflectance material which reflects, through said medium and the transparent wall, light which reaches said reflecting layer after entering the medium through the transparent wall and (B) wherein, if both of said walls are transparent, the mirror comprises a reflecting layer of high reflectance material which reflects, through the medium of the electrochromic device, light which reaches said reflecting layer after passing through said medium.
Claim 70
Dependent Claim
67 words
A mirror according to claim 64 wherein, in the electrochromic device, the medium of reversibly variable transmittance is held in a space defined by said two planar, parallel, spaced-apart walls, and a periphery defined by an epoxy seal in which are embedded glass beads, which are in contact with the sides of said walls, which are in contact with said medium, and which hold apart said walls.
Claim 71
Dependent Claim
32 words
A mirror according to any one of claims 57-65 wherein, in the medium of reversibly variable transmittance, the viologen salt is selected from the group consisting of salts of 1,1'-dimethyl-4,4'-bipyridinium and 1,1'-dibenzyl-4,4'-bipyridinium.
Claim 72
Dependent Claim
43 words
A variable reflectance rearview mirror for a motor vehicle, which has a range of reflectance from greater than 70% to less than lot and wherein the variable reflectance is provided by a component of reversibly variable transmittance, which is a self-erasing electrochromic device.
Claim 73
Dependent Claim
43 words
A variable reflectance rearview mirror for a motor vehicle, which has a range of reflectance from greater than 70% to less than lot and wherein the variable reflectance is provided by a component of reversibly variable transmittance, which is a self-erasing electrochromic device.
Claim 74
Dependent Claim
20 words
A mirror according to claim 67, wherein in the electrochromic device the medium of reversibly variable transmittance comprises propylene carbonate.
Claim 75
Dependent Claim
12 words
A mirror according to claim 67 wherein the reflectance is continuously variable.
Claim 76
Dependent Claim
25 words
A mirror according to claim 67 wherein, in electrochromic device, there is a medium of reversibly variable transmittance which comprises an electrochromic compound in solution.
Claim 77
Dependent Claim
10 words
A mirror according to claim 67 which is gray-scale controllable.
Claim 78
Dependent Claim
12 words
A mirror according to claim 71 wherein the reflectance is continuously variable.
Claim 79
Dependent Claim
102 words
A mirror according to claim 67 wherein, in the electrochromic device, there is a medium of reversibly variable transmittance which is between and in contact with two planar, parallel, spaced-apart walls, each of which, on the side in contact with said medium, is coated with an electrode layer of electrically conductive material, one of which is transparent, and the other of which has as its electrode layer in contact with said medium a reflecting layer of high reflectance material, which reflects, through said medium and the transparent wall, light which reaches said reflecting layer after entering the medium through the transparent wall.
Claim 80
Dependent Claim
22 words
A mirror according to claim 73 wherein said high reflectance material is selected from the group consisting of rhodium, silver and inconel.
Claim 81
Dependent Claim
19 words
A mirror according to claim 74 wherein the medium of reversibly variable transmittance comprises an electrochromic compound in solution.
Claim 82
Dependent Claim
44 words
A variable reflectance rearview mirror for a motor vehicle, wherein the variable reflectance is provided by a component of reversibly variable transmittance, which is a self-erasing electrochromic device, wherein the sheet resistance of a transparent electrode layer is 40 ohms per square or less.
Claim 83
Dependent Claim
44 words
A variable reflectance rearview mirror for a motor vehicle, wherein the variable reflectance is provided by a component of reversibly variable transmittance, which is a self-erasing electrochromic device, wherein the sheet resistance of a transparent electrode layer is 40 ohms per square or less.
Claim 84
Dependent Claim
10 words
A mirror according to claim 76 which is gray-scale controllable.
Claim 85
Dependent Claim
12 words
A mirror according to claim 76 wherein the reflectance is continuously variable.
Claim 86
Dependent Claim
26 words
A mirror according to claim 76 wherein, in the electrochromic device, there Is a medium of reversibly variable transmittance which comprises an electrochromic compound in solution.
Claim 87
Dependent Claim
20 words
A mirror according to claim 76, wherein in the electrochromic device the medium of reversibly variable transmittance comprises propylene carbonate.
Claim 88
Dependent Claim
20 words
A mirror according to claim 80 which has a range of reflectance from greater than 70% to less than 10%.
Claim 89
Dependent Claim
102 words
A mirror according to claim 76 wherein, in the electrochromic device, there is a medium of reversibly variable transmittance which is between and in contact with two planar, parallel, spaced-apart walls, each of which, on the side in contact with said medium, is coated with an electrode layer of electrically conductive material, one of which is transparent, and the other of which has as its electrode layer in contact with said medium a reflecting layer of high reflectance material, which reflects, through said medium and the transparent wall, light which reaches said reflecting layer after entering the medium through the transparent wall.
Claim 90
Dependent Claim
22 words
A mirror according to claim 82 wherein said high reflectance material is selected from the group consisting of rhodium, silver and inconel.
Claim 91
Dependent Claim
19 words
A mirror according to claim 83 wherein the medium of reversibly variable transmittance comprises an electrochromic compound in solution.
Claim 92
Dependent Claim
20 words
A mirror according to claim 76 which has a range of reflectance from greater than 70% to less than 10%.
Claim 93
Dependent Claim
12 words
A mirror according to claim 85 whereon the reflectance is continuously variable.
Claim 94
Dependent Claim
10 words
A mirror according to claim 85 which is gray-scale controllable.
Claim 95
Dependent Claim
26 words
A mirror according to claim 85 wherein, in the electrochromic device, there is a medium of reversibly variable transmittance which comprises an electrochromic compound in solution.
Claim 96
Dependent Claim
114 words
A mirror according to claim 88 wherein in the electrochromic device, the medium of reversibly variable transmittance is between and in contact with two planar, parallel, spaced-apart walls, each of which, an the side in contact with said medium, is coated with an electrode layer of electrically conductive material, one of which is transparent, and the other of which has as its electrode layer in contact with said medium a reflecting layer of high reflectance material, which reflects, through said medium and the transparent wall, light which reaches said reflecting layer after entering the medium through the transparent wall, and which reflectance material is selected from the group consisting of rhodium, silver and inconel.
Claim 97
Dependent Claim
37 words
A variable reflectance rearview mirror for an automobile, wherein the variable reflectance is provided by a component of reversibly variable transmittance, which is a self-erasing electrochromic device wherein the medium of reversibly variable transmittance comprises a gel.
Claim 98
Dependent Claim
37 words
A variable reflectance rearview mirror for an automobile, wherein the variable reflectance is provided by a component of reversibly variable transmittance, which is a self-erasing electrochromic device wherein the medium of reversibly variable transmittance comprises a gel.
Claim 99
Dependent Claim
20 words
A mirror according to claim 90 which has a range of reflectance from greater than 70% to less than 10%.
Claim 100
Dependent Claim
26 words
A mirror according to claim 90 wherein a transparent electrode layer of the electrochromic device has a sheet resistance of 40 ohms per square or less.
Claim 101
Dependent Claim
19 words
A mirror according to claim 90 wherein the medium of reversibly variable transmittance comprises an electrochromic compound in solution.
Claim 102
Dependent Claim
99 words
A mirror according to claim 90 wherein, in the electrochromic device, the medium of reversibly variable transmittance is between and in contact with two planar, parallel, spaced-apart walls, each of which, on the side in contact with said medium, is coated with an electrode layer of electrically conductive material, one of which is transparent, and the other of which has as its electrode layer in contact with aid medium a reflecting layer of high reflectance material, which reflects, through said medium and the transparent wall, light which reaches said reflecting layer after entering the medium through the transparent wall.
Claim 103
Dependent Claim
22 words
A mirror according to claim 94 wherein said high reflectance material is selected from the group consisting of rhodium, silver and inconel.
Claim 104
Dependent Claim
19 words
A mirror according to claim 95 wherein the medium of reversibly variable transmittance comprises an electrochromic compound in solution.
Claim 105
Dependent Claim
38 words
A variable reflectance rearview mirror for an automobile, wherein the variable reflectance is provided by a component of reversibly variable transmittances which is a self-erasing electrochromic device wherein the medium of reversibly variable transmittance comprises an acrylic material.
Claim 106
Dependent Claim
38 words
A variable reflectance rearview mirror for an automobile, wherein the variable reflectance is provided by a component of reversibly variable transmittances which is a self-erasing electrochromic device wherein the medium of reversibly variable transmittance comprises an acrylic material.
Claim 107
Dependent Claim
20 words
A mirror according to claim 98 which has a range of reflectance from greater than 70% to less than 10%.
Claim 108
Dependent Claim
26 words
A mirror according to claim 97 wherein a transparent electrode layer of the electrochromic device has a sheet resistance of 40 ohms per square or less.
Claim 109
Dependent Claim
19 words
A mirror according to claim 97 wherein the medium of reversibly variable transmittance comprises an electrochromic compound in solution.
Claim 110
Dependent Claim
99 words
A mirror according to claim 97 wherein, in the electrochromic device, the medium of reversibly variable transmittance is between and in contact with two planar, parallel, spaced-apart wails, each of which, on the side in contact with said medium, is coated with an electrode layer of electrically conductive material, one of which is transparent, and the other of which has as its electrode layer in contact with said medium a reflecting layer of high reflectance material, which reflects, through said medium and the transparent wall, light which reaches said reflecting layer after entering the medium through the transparent wall.
Claim 111
Dependent Claim
22 words
A mirror according to claim 101 wherein said high reflectance material is selected from the group consisting of rhodium, silver and inconel.
Claim 112
Dependent Claim
19 words
A mirror according to claim 102 wherein the medium of reversibly variable transmittance comprises an electrochromic compound in solution.
Claim 113
Dependent Claim
139 words
A variable reflectance rearview mirror for a motor vehicle, wherein the variable reflectance is provided by a component of reversibly variable transmittance, which is a self-erasing electrochromic device, and wherein, in said electrochromic device, there is a medium of reversibly variable transmittance which is between and in contact with two planar parallel, spaced-apart walls, each of which, on the side in contact with said medium, is coated with an electrode layer of electrically conductive material, one of which is transparent and the other of which has as its electrode layer in contact with said medium a reflecting layer of high reflectance material, which layer reflects, through said medium and the transparent wall, light which reaches said layer after entering the medium through the transparent wall and which reflectance material is selected from the group consisting of rhodium and inconel.
Claim 114
Dependent Claim
139 words
A variable reflectance rearview mirror for a motor vehicle, wherein the variable reflectance is provided by a component of reversibly variable transmittance, which is a self-erasing electrochromic device, and wherein, in said electrochromic device, there is a medium of reversibly variable transmittance which is between and in contact with two planar parallel, spaced-apart walls, each of which, on the side in contact with said medium, is coated with an electrode layer of electrically conductive material, one of which is transparent and the other of which has as its electrode layer in contact with said medium a reflecting layer of high reflectance material, which layer reflects, through said medium and the transparent wall, light which reaches said layer after entering the medium through the transparent wall and which reflectance material is selected from the group consisting of rhodium and inconel.
Claim 115
Dependent Claim
65 words
A variable reflectance rearview mirror for a motor vehicle, wherein the variable reflectance is provided by a component of reversibly variable transmittance, which is a self-erasing electrochromic device, wherein the medium of reversibly variable transmittance comprises: (A) a non-aqueous solvent; (B) a cathodic electrochromic compound; (C) 5,10-dihydro-5,10-dimethylphenazine; and (D) if all cathodic compounds in their zero-potential equilibrium states are not ionic, an inert, current-carrying electrolyte.
Claim 116
Dependent Claim
65 words
A variable reflectance rearview mirror for a motor vehicle, wherein the variable reflectance is provided by a component of reversibly variable transmittance, which is a self-erasing electrochromic device, wherein the medium of reversibly variable transmittance comprises: (A) a non-aqueous solvent; (B) a cathodic electrochromic compound; (C) 5,10-dihydro-5,10-dimethylphenazine; and (D) if all cathodic compounds in their zero-potential equilibrium states are not ionic, an inert, current-carrying electrolyte.
Claim 117
Dependent Claim
21 words
A mirror according to claim 105 wherein the component of reversibly variable transmittance provides continuously variable reflectance and is gray-scale controllable.
Claim 118
Dependent Claim
44 words
A mirror according to claim 106 wherein the reflectance in capable of being reduced from greater than 70% to less than 20% in less than 10 seconds with a potential difference of less then 1.4 volts between the electrode layers of the electrochromic device.
Claim 119
Dependent Claim
19 words
A mirror according to any one of claims 105-107 wherein the cathodic electrochromic compounds are salts of viologen dications.
Claim 120
Dependent Claim
20 words
A mirror according to claim 108 wherein the viologen dications are selected from the group consisting of 1,1'-dimethyl-4,4'-bipyridinium and 1,1'-dibenzyl-4,4'-bipyridinium.
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USPTO Annuity & Maintenance Windows
| Annuity Stage | Window Opens | Payment Deadline | Surcharge Period Until | Estimated Fee | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3.5 Years (Year 4) | 2001-05-11 | 2001-11-10 | 2002-05-12 | $2000.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 7.5 Years (Year 8) | 2005-05-11 | 2005-11-10 | 2006-05-12 | $3760.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 11.5 Years (Year 12) | 2009-05-11 | 2009-11-10 | 2010-05-12 | $7700.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |