Bifunctional aeroplane windows
Electrochromic windows can contribute to passengers' comfort, allowing them to control the amount of sunlight coming into the cabin. This type of smart window can switch from a colourless transparent state to a deeply coloured transparent state as a result of a redox reaction. The overall objective of IN-LIGHT (Innovative bifunctional aircraft window for lighting control to enhance passenger comfort) was to develop a new concept that combines electrochromism with transparent organic light-emitting diode (TOLED) lighting technology. Electrochromic technology allows control over light entering the aircraft cabin to avoid a rise in the temperature while reducing air conditioning use. On the other hand, the TOLED lighting system, also controllable by passengers, provides ambient lighting with new aesthetic effects. IN-LIGHT partners focused on the use of technologies that led to all-solid-state devices, simplifying the manufacturing process. The proposed electrochromic technology relies on light absorption by redox-chromophores placed on nanostructured semiconducting coatings supported by a conducting plastic substrate. Typically, nanostructured electrodes with anchored chromophores are produced using a high-temperature sintering process that is not compatible with substrates such as acrylic polymers, preferred for aircraft windows. The IN-LIGHT window relies on transparent nanostructured electrodes processed at low temperatures. Small-scale electrochromic and TOLED prototypes were produced and tested before project partners scaled up production. By the end of IN-LIGHT, electrochromic devices and TOLED stacks up to 15 cm x 30 cm were fabricated on a pilot production line using roll-to-roll assembly. IN-LIGHT technology will make an important contribution to the competitive position of the EU aircraft industry. The combination of two technologies promises less expensive and higher-performing smart shading and dimmable aircraft windows as well as enhanced passenger comfort.
Keywords
Electrochromic, IN-LIGHT, aircraft window, lighting, passenger comfort, TOLED