Lighting module for building facade

Abstract

The invention relates to an optical module (100) for a building facade, in particular for a glazing, opposite a defined arrangement at the building facade, the module (100) having a front side (10a), a rear side (10b), an upper side (10c) and a lower side (10d), the module (100) comprising at least: a front side substrate (2) and a rear side substrate (3), the substrates (2, 3) being configured to be light-transmissive, a gap being formed between the substrates (2, 3), and a plurality of micro-leaf elements (1) accommodated in the gap, each micro-leaf element (1) having a light-impermeable leaf segment (11) with a front optical side (11a) and / or a rear optical side (11b), each micro-leaf element (1) being hingedly arranged on the front side substrate (2) or on the rear side substrate (3) by means of an edge-side fastening segment (12), such that each leaf segment (11) can be pivoted from a light-impermeable closed position about a horizontal pivot axis into the direction of the upper side (10c) or the lower side (10d) into at least one light-transmissive open position.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a light technology module for building facades, particularly for window glass, and a system for constructing building facades. Background Technology

[0002] Shutter arrays and mirror arrays, which consist of multiple drivable micro-elements in the form of micro-shutters or micro-mirrors, belong to the so-called micro-optomechanical systems (MOEMS) and are used for high-resolution light modulation or light redirection in a variety of different applications (e.g., as projectors, routers, shutters, or apertures), such as in projector displays, optical information processing, microscopy, photolithography, laser engraving, or as elements for guiding sunlight in glass walls of buildings.

[0003] The micro-elements forming the array are miniaturized optical elements ranging in size from a few square micrometers to square millimeters. The position of these optical elements, and consequently the effects of the optical technology, can be driven by active or passive manipulation. Here, the micro-elements are selectively constructed as completely opaque micro-shutters, or their specularly reflective surfaces serve as micromirrors. To fabricate the array, conventional thin-layer methods are used, particularly with the application of deposition processes, photolithography and etching steps, and sacrificial layer techniques.

[0004] In the prior art, light technology modules with micromirrors based on MOEMS are known for achieving active light redirection at building facades. For example, DE 10358967 A1 discloses an array of micromirror components for facade structural purposes, wherein the micromirror elements exist in a regular planar matrix arrangement and are controlled individually or in groups by a central controller via an addressing network. This creates the possibility of active sunlight control with high local resolution, enabling desired and personalized lighting conditions in the space behind the facade. A detailed description of the fabrication, function, and application principles of such micromirror arrays is obtained in the article Jpn. J. Appl. Phys. (Japanese Journal of Applied Physics, 57, 08PA07 (2018)) by Hillmer et al.

[0005] Furthermore, Hillmer et al. disclosed a MOEMS micromirror array for guiding daylight in building window glass in Journal of Optical Microsystems 1,014502 (2021). Based on this, a module has a front side, a back side, an upper side, and a lower side, with the back side oriented towards the interior of the building and the upper side oriented upwards. The module includes a front side substrate and a back side substrate, each configured to be light-transmitting, with the micromirrors housed in the gap between the substrates. Here, the micromirrors are hinged to the inner side of the front side substrate, such that each micromirror can swing from an opaque closed position about a horizontal swing axis towards the lower side of the module to at least one light-transmitting open position. In the closed position, the micromirrors are substantially planar parallel to the front side substrate, and incoming sunlight is reflected back to the exterior of the building facade. Introducing multiple micromirrors into their closed positions creates a large-area mirroring of the building facade. This can result in such significant light reflection that it can obstruct nearby road traffic or adjacent buildings in a disruptive manner. Furthermore, the rear side of the mirror element is typically constructed as a metallic mirror, thus creating a mirroring effect towards the room behind the window glass even in the closed position. However, this can be detrimental, as people in the relevant room may find the large-area internal mirroring of the window glass uncomfortable.

[0006] Furthermore, in the existing technology, the use of light technology modules for deflecting light to decorate building facades competes with applications that use such facades for photovoltaic energy harvesting. Currently, photovoltaic energy harvesting is often achieved by integrating solar modules over large areas into building facades along with their window glass. Summary of the Invention

[0007] Therefore, the object of the present invention is to provide a light technology module for building facades that overcomes the aforementioned deficiencies in the prior art and is particularly suitable for constructing personalized and demand-compliant systems for forming building facades.

[0008] This objective is achieved by the optical technology module according to claim 1 and the system based on the optical technology module for constructing building facades according to claim 12. Advantageous improvements of the invention are given in the dependent claims.

[0009] This invention includes a technical teaching that, based on a prescribed arrangement on a building facade, a light technology module has a front side, a rear side, a top side, and a bottom side, wherein the module includes at least:

[0010] - A front-side substrate and a back-side substrate, wherein the substrates are configured to be light-transmitting, and wherein a gap is formed between the substrates, and

[0011] - Multiple microblade elements are housed in the gap, wherein each microblade element has an opaque blade section having a front side and / or a rear side for optical technology, wherein each microblade element is hinged on a front side substrate or a back side substrate by means of a fastening section on the edge side, such that each blade section can swing from an opaque closed position to at least one light-transmitting open position about a horizontal swing axis in an upward or downward direction.

[0012] The core concept of this invention lies in achieving a high degree of diversity in the design schemes of the optical technology effects involving the optical module according to the invention, namely, that in addition to the front side, the rear side of the blade section of the microblade element also has a dedicated optical technology function, and the arrangement of the microblade elements on the front or rear side substrate, combined with the optional swing direction of the blade section, can achieve different characteristics involving the light redirection effect of sunlight hitting the module. Here, such a side is referred to as the front side, that is, this side is exposed towards the front side of the module in the closed position of the blade section. Thus, when the module is correctly arranged on the glass of a building window, in the closed position of the blade section, the front side is visible from outside the building and the rear side is visible inside the relevant building room. Here, the configuration and arrangement of the microblade elements of the module are preferably uniform, although variations related to this are generally possible within the module.

[0013] Preferably, the blade segments have a uniform rectangular outline and size, although more complex outlines or size proportions are also suitable in principle, allowing for substantially complete surface coverage of the substrate, which is oriented parallel to each other. The microblade element has a layered structure comprising at least one opaque layer. Thus, in the closed position of all blade segments (where they are oriented substantially parallel to the substrate), the module is opaque, preventing, for example, sunlight from entering the building through corresponding windows. In addition to the opaque layer, the microblade element typically has other layers or additional optical properties, particularly on the front and rear sides for the light technology used to form the blade segments.

[0014] For example, the front and / or rear sides of the blade section have a mirror effect for visible and / or near-infrared (NIR) light, wherein the front and / or rear sides are particularly constructed as a mirror layer made of metal. The function of the mirrored front or rear side optical technology is primarily to redirect incoming sunlight into the building interior, that is, to deflect sunlight into the space arranged behind the relevant module. Furthermore, depending on whether the microblade elements are arranged on the front or rear side substrate and according to the swing direction of the blade section, either the front or rear side of the blade section is used for this purpose. In prior art modules (Hillmer et al., Journal of Optical Microsystems 1, 014502 (2021)), the microblade elements are arranged on the front side substrate, and in the closed position, the mirrored front side of the blade section is exposed towards the front side of the module. Thus, in practical applications on building facades, strong specular reflection may cause undesirable interference to surrounding traffic. According to the invention, this can be avoided by having the rear side of the blade section have the desired mirror effect and swinging downwards from the closed position towards the lower side of the module. In this embodiment, the front side facing traffic in the closed position does not participate in the redirection of sunlight into the building's interior and therefore does not need to have a mirror effect, thus preventing undesirable glare for traffic. That is, it is particularly suitable that, selectively, either the front or rear side of the blade section has a mirror effect, while the corresponding other side of the blade section is equipped with a different lighting technology.

[0015] For example, the front and / or rear sides of the blade segment have a scattering effect for visible light, particularly with a suitable surface roughness. A suitable scattering effect is achieved when incident light undergoes diffuse reflection rather than directional reflection, thus preventing a significant mirror effect from the microblade element. This optical technique of the microblade element can be desirable, especially when the blade segment is moved to the closed position under strong sunlight, without producing a mirror effect that could dazzle nearby traffic, for example, from an external perspective. Similarly, people inside buildings generally find the matte appearance of darkened window glass more comfortable than large areas of mirrored glass.

[0016] In another embodiment, the front and / or rear sides of the blade segment have an absorption effect for visible and / or near-infrared light, wherein the front and / or rear sides particularly have a photovoltaic layer system, and the module is particularly configured for photovoltaic energy harvesting. Preferably, the photovoltaic layer system is arranged on the front side of the blade segment, which faces outward, i.e., exposed in the direction of incoming sunlight, in the closed position of the blade segment. Thus, for example, intense midday sunlight (which should be prevented from entering the room by closing the microblade elements) can be effectively used for photovoltaic energy harvesting. Thus, the module according to the invention, for example, can combine the light-directing effect of specular reflection from the rear side of the blade element for indoor lighting with the photovoltaic function of the front side, while avoiding reflections that may interfere with road traffic, thereby overcoming the related contradictions in systems for designing building facades according to the prior art.

[0017] In another embodiment, the front and / or rear sides of the blade segment are configured to produce a specific colored appearance, particularly by means of a dielectric cladding. In this embodiment, the module can serve as an artistic element of a building facade, meaning the effect of the optical technology is to produce a specific colored appearance for the observer. For example, colored patterns can also be produced by multiple modules configured differently in terms of color properties; furthermore, colored patterns can be dynamically produced due to the drivability of individual microblade elements. For example, the corresponding sides of the blade segment can be configured as interferometers based on dielectric monochromatic or polychromatic claddings. Alternatively, suitable pigments or nanoparticles can be applied by means of coating. The colored appearance is produced by interference or by absorbing a portion of the white spectrum.

[0018] In particular, each microblade element has a layered structure comprising at least one compression layer and a tensioning layer, wherein, along the blade section of each microblade element, the compression layer is arranged on the tensioning layer such that each microblade element is divided into the following sections:

[0019] - A blade section constructed to be globally tension-free / stress-free and having two substantially parallel planar surfaces.

[0020] - A fastening section rigidly arranged on the edge side of one of the substrates, and

[0021] - The hinged section in the middle has a bend caused by inherent stress, thereby forming the open position of the microblade element.

[0022] Here, when there is no external drive, the microblade element is in its maximum open position, which is achieved by bending the hinge section between the form-fitted fastening section and the stress-compensated blade section due to the inherent stress at this time. For example, the hinge section has a radius of curvature that is one-hundredth to one-third of the length of the longest side of the profile of the corresponding microblade element.

[0023] More advantageously, the blade segment can be driven to swing between a closed position and at least one open position by means of the principle of electrostatic action. For this purpose, the front side substrate and / or the back side substrate have conductive layers, and the blade segment has or forms electrodes, such that by applying an electrical voltage signal between the electrodes and the respective substrate, the individual microblade elements and / or groups of individual microblade elements can be driven.

[0024] In particular, each microblade element has at least one conductive layer, thereby forming an electrode layer, wherein the substrate to which it belongs has a layer structure comprising a light-transmitting, conductive bottom layer and a light-transmitting, electrically insulating insulating layer, wherein the fastening section of each microblade element is arranged on the insulating layer.

[0025] For example, the blade section is oriented substantially orthogonally to the substrate in the maximum open position. This vertical position provides maximum light transmission and occupies the position when the microblade element is not subjected to electrostatic forces due to the applied voltage, and the hinge section simply curls up according to its inherent mechanical stress.

[0026] Preferably, other intermediate positions can be occupied between the maximum open position and the closed position of the blade segment; in terms of transmittance, these intermediate positions represent corresponding grayscale values. Starting from the maximum open position of the blade segment, by applying a continuously increasing voltage between the substrate and the electrode, the microblade element can be steplessly closed until a limiting voltage is reached, from which point the microblade element is completely closed. This diversity of dedicated, adjustable opening angles of the blade segment relative to the substrate is particularly useful for targeted light redirection using mirrored blade segments.

[0027] When a driving voltage is applied, electric field lines extend not only from the rear side of the microblade element but also from the front side to the conductive substrate. To prevent the blade segment from overturning to the wrong side due to the elastic restoring force of the hinge segment, in an advantageous embodiment, the fastening segment of each microblade element has a dielectric shielding layer. This shielding layer aims to contribute to extending the drivable swing range of the blade segment to a range greater than 90°, for example, 120°. In the absence of voltage, the blade segment occupies the maximum open position, determined by the degree of bending of the hinge segment. If the blade segment is in an open position with a swing greater than 90° relative to the closed position (where the blade segment plane is parallel to the substrate in the closed position), an electrostatic attraction exists between the substrate substrate and the blade segment when an electric driving voltage is applied. This attraction concentrates to keep the microblade element swinging open and thus counteracts the desired driving logic. To contribute to reducing the electric field strength and thus the parasitic attraction, a dielectric shielding layer is arranged in the fastening section between the bottom layer and the blade section that swings above it. Furthermore, in embodiments with photovoltaic layer systems, the potential ratio can be selected by appropriately orienting the N and P doped layers, thereby further reducing the electric field strength on the corresponding sides of the blade section. This measure enables an expansion of the blade section's swing range, allowing for particularly comprehensive utilization of both front and rear side optical technologies.

[0028] For example, the front and / or rear sides of the blade segment have a photovoltaic layer system on the electrode layer, particularly a pn junction based on organic or inorganic semiconductors. Compound semiconductors such as CdlnGaSe2, CdTe, CdSe, GaAs, or CdlnGaSe are suitable materials and can be deposited using thin-layer deposition processes. The photovoltaic layer system is preferably arranged on the front side of the blade segment, that is, facing the sunlight in the closed position. However, in principle, the rear side can also be configured for photovoltaic energy harvesting and to absorb indirect sunlight or artificial light used in a corresponding room.

[0029] Preferably, the microblade elements have a rectangular profile with a side length of 10 micrometers to 2 millimeters and / or the microblade elements are arranged in a regular matrix form consisting of parallel rows and parallel columns, wherein the microblade elements, in the closed state, form a substantially complete surface coverage of the substrate.

[0030] In an advantageous embodiment, the module according to the invention has an addressing network consisting of planar wires forming electrical connections between the electrode layers and / or photovoltaic layers of individual microblade elements or groups of microblade elements and the edge-side module interface, the edge-side module interface being used to locate and drive the microblade elements in a computer-controlled manner and / or to intercept the voltage generated by the photovoltaic system. This type of addressing network, together with the module interface, enables the use of a remotely positioned controller to operate individual microblade elements, and in particular enables the integration of multiple modules according to the invention into a system for designing building facades, even when a single central controller is used for the entire system. Alternatively, for example, when the floors of the equipped building are owned by different residents and these residents each want their own system control, the use of multiple distributed controllers may also be reasonable.

[0031] Furthermore, the present invention relates to a system for designing building facades, particularly window glazing, comprising at least a plurality of optical technology modules according to one of the above embodiments and at least one controller electrically connected to the modules for driving micro-blade elements of the modules, wherein, in terms of the arrangement of the modules, the rear side of the modules is oriented towards the interior of the building and the upper side of the modules is oriented in an upward manner. Thus, the front side of the modules is directly or indirectly exposed to sunlight, and when installed at the window glazing, the rear side faces the room located behind the window glazing. For comprehensiveness, it should be noted that the positional designation "upward" is with reference to the Earth's gravitational field, that is, in the prescribed arrangement at the building facade, the upper side of the module is further from the ground than the corresponding lower side.

[0032] In particular, regarding the arrangement of microblade elements, the oscillation direction of the front and rear sides of the blade sections, and / or the effects of the optical technology, the configuration of the modules in the system according to the invention is matched to the optical technology requirements of the building facade, the building's location, and the orientation of the building facade. For example, the modules have different configurations, thereby matching the modules to the optical technology requirements of the corresponding sections of the building facade. For example, it can be provided to prevent the mirror effect of modules pointing outward in the closed position of the microblade elements in certain sections of the building facade, for example, to avoid glare to surrounding traffic, or to limit the building facade equipped with photoelectric active modules to exposed facade sections facing south, east, and west.

[0033] In addition to its applications in redirecting visible sunlight and photovoltaics, the system according to the invention is also configured to control rays from the near-infrared and mid-infrared spectra, and thus can be suitably used for building thermal management. For example, the closed modules can be used to retain heat radiation from inside the building at night or in winter, especially through a mirror effect. Attached Figure Description

[0034] Next, along with the description of preferred embodiments of the invention with reference to the accompanying drawings, other improvements to the invention will be shown in detail. Wherein:

[0035] Figures 1a-1d A schematic cross-sectional view of an embodiment of the optical technology module according to the present invention is shown.

[0036] Figures 2a-2d A schematic cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a photovoltaic layer system is shown.

[0037] Figure 3 A schematic cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a photovoltaic layer system is shown.

[0038] Figure 4 A schematic cross-sectional view illustrating electrostatic actuation is shown.

[0039] Figure 5 A schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the inherent stress of a microblade element is shown, and

[0040] Figure 6 A schematic diagram of an exemplary building facade having a system composed of optical technology modules according to the present invention is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0041] Figures 1a-1d Schematic cross-sectional views of four different embodiments of an optical technology module 100 according to the present invention are shown. The module includes a front-side substrate 2 and a rear-side substrate 3, and a plurality of microblade elements 1, which are housed in the gap between the substrates 2 and 3. Regarding a specific arrangement on a building facade (especially for window glass), the module 100 has a front side 10a and a rear side 10b, as well as an upper side 10c and a lower side 10d. The module 100 is arranged on the building facade such that the upper side 10c is positioned upwards, and the rear side 10b is oriented inwards towards the building. The front-side substrate 2 and, generally, the rear-side substrate 3, are configured to be light-transmitting.

[0042] The microblade element 1 includes a planar blade section 11, a fastening section 12 disposed on respective substrates 2 and 3, and a hinge section 13 located therebetween. The blade section shown is in a partially open position, where the swing range is drawn by a dashed arc and, for example, approximately 120° from the closed position, in which the blade section 11 rests parallel to its respective substrate 2 or 3. The swing motion occurs about a horizontal swing axis, which is perpendicular to the plane of the drawing. Alternatively, the swing range can be limited, for example, to approximately 90°, thereby providing maximum transmittance for light perpendicularly incident on the substrates 2 and 3 when the drive is de-energized.

[0043] The microblade element 1 is driven, that is, the oscillation of the blade segment 11, by applying a voltage between the conductive electrode layer 7 and the corresponding conductive bottom layer 21, 31. The bottom layer is arranged on the transparent carrier 20, 30 and is electrically isolated from the microblade element 1 by the insulating layers 22, 32.

[0044] Each blade segment 11 has a mirror layer 4, which is primarily metallic, providing a mirror effect for visible and near-infrared (NIR) light. Conversely, each blade segment has a dedicated surface roughening structure 5 that provides a scattering effect for visible light. Depending on the solar altitude and the position of the blade segment 11, the mirror layer 4 allows for appropriate light redirection into the building's rooms. Furthermore, the high reflectivity for NIR rays contributes to thermal regulation; for example, indoor heat emitted through facade windows can be reflected back into the building by the appropriately tilted mirror layer 4.

[0045] The four embodiments shown differ from one another in the arrangement of the microblade element 1 on the front side substrate 2 or the back side substrate 3, and in the corresponding swing direction of the blade segment 11, which can swing from an opaque closed position toward the upper side 10c or the lower side 10d of the respective module 100.

[0046] exist Figure 1aIn the design, microblade elements 1 are arranged on the back side substrate 3, and from the opaque closed position (in which the corresponding blade segment 11 is parallel to the back side substrate 3), the blade segment 11 can swing downwards 10d. The front side 11a of the blade segment 11 has a surface roughening structure 5, and the rear side 11b of the blade segment 11 is constructed as a mirror layer 4, which has a mirror effect for visible light and NIR. In the closed position of the blade segment 11, sunlight entering through the front side substrate 2 is scattered by the front side 11a, thus preventing glare caused by reflection through the mirror for an observer from the front side substrate 2. In the open position of the blade segment 11, sunlight entering is mirrored at the rear side 11b and enters the building room behind through the back side substrate 3, thereby achieving the desired light redirection effect.

[0047] exist Figure 1b In this embodiment, the microblade element 1 is also arranged on the back side substrate 3, but here, the blade segment 11 swings upward in the direction of the upper side 10c starting from the closed position. The front side 11a of the blade segment 11, which is oriented toward the front side substrate 2 in the closed position, is formed by the mirror layer 4, while the rear side 11b has a surface roughening structure / surface roughening structure 5.

[0048] exist Figure 1c and 1d In this embodiment, the microblade elements 1 are respectively arranged on the front side substrate 2 of the module 100, wherein, starting from the closed position (in the closed position, the blade segments 11 are respectively planar parallel to each other on the front side substrate 2), the swing direction of the blade segments 11 is in Figure 1c In the case of orientation towards the upper 10c, while Figure 1d In this case, it is oriented 10d downwards. Figure 1c In one embodiment, the front side 11a of the blade segment 11 has a surface roughening structure 5, and the rear side 11b is constructed as a mirror layer 4. Figure 1d In some embodiments, the opposite is true.

[0049] The configurability of the module according to the invention, relating to the arrangement of the microblade element 11 on the front or back side substrates 2, 3, and relating to the swing orientation of the blade section 11 (in combination with dedicated optical technology functions not only for the front side 11a but also for the rear side 11b of the blade section 11), achieves a high degree of matching and customizability of the module 100 with respect to the specific requirements of the corresponding presence of associated sections of the building facade constructed by the module 100.

[0050] exist Figures 1a-1dThe module 100 shown is also suitable for achieving color effects, particularly on the scattering side of the blade segment 11. For this purpose, pigments or nanoparticles are incorporated into the relevant surfaces and / or a dielectric interference filter layer is coated.

[0051] Figures 2a-2d Schematic cross-sectional views of four other embodiments of the optical technology module 100 according to the present invention are shown, wherein the microblade elements 1 of the module each have a combination of a mirror layer 4 and an opposing photovoltaic layer system 6. Regarding the arrangement of the microblade elements 1 on the substrates 2 and 3, and the oscillation orientation of the blade section 11, [the following is discussed]. Figures 1a-1d The situation is similar to that in the above embodiments.

[0052] The photovoltaic layer system 6 has absorption effects for visible light, UV rays, and part of NIR, and the module 100 is thus configured for photovoltaic energy harvesting. For example, the photovoltaic layer system 6 includes two compound semiconductor layers 61, 62, particularly inorganic II-VI-compound semiconductors, III-V-compound semiconductors, or III-IV-V-compound semiconductors, with a pn junction between the two compound semiconductor layers.

[0053] For efficient photovoltaic energy harvesting, especially to demonstrate Figure 2a and 2c In one embodiment, the photovoltaic layer system 6 is arranged on the front side 11a of the blade section 11, and in the closed position, the front side is exposed to the front substrate 2 and thus to the incoming sunlight. The arrangement of the photovoltaic layer system 6 on the rear side 11b of the blade section 11 (as in...) Figure 2b and 2d In the embodiment, module 100 is essentially used as an energy converter for indirect sunlight scattered from the ground and for artificial light incident from the room of the building through the rear side substrate 3.

[0054] Figure 3 A detailed schematic cross-sectional view of an embodiment of module 100 according to the invention, showing a photovoltaic layer system 6, is provided. The microblade element 1 shown has a layer structure having a photovoltaic layer system 6 including compound semiconductor layers 61 and 62 on a front side 11a, a conductive electrode layer 7 of metal, and a mirror layer 4 applied along the blade segment 11 to a rear side 11b.

[0055] The microblade element 1 is disposed on the back side substrate 3, which includes a light-transmitting, conductive bottom layer 31 and a light-transmitting, electrically insulating insulating layer 32. In the fastening section 12 of the microblade element 1, a voltage U formed at the pn junction of the photovoltaic layer system 6 can be intercepted between the electrode layer 7 and the upper electrode 64.pv .

[0056] In particular, the electrode layer 7 also serves as an electrode for electrostatic actuation of the microblade element 1 in the hinge section 13, for which a voltage U can be applied between the electrode layer 7 and the bottom layer 31. akt In the blade section 11, surface charges can be induced on the mirror layer 4 forming the rear side 11b and the semiconductor layer 61 forming the front side 11a.

[0057] exist Figure 3 In the state shown, blade segment 11 is in the fully open position, which differs from the closed position by more than 90°. In this state, when a driving voltage U is applied... act At this time, a significant attractive force exists between the front side 11a and the bottom layer 31, which reacts against the attractive force between the electrode layer 7 and the bottom layer 31 in the hinge section 13. Thus, the attractive force between the front side 11a and the bottom layer 31 reacts with the swing of the blade section 11 towards the closed position and hinders the desired actuation. To reduce the electric field between the front side 11a and the bottom layer 31, the fastening section 12 has a dielectric shielding layer 63, which is made of an insulating material with a high dielectric constant.

[0058] Preferably, all embodiments of module 100 here have an addressing network (not shown) consisting of electrical wires, which forms an electrical connection between the individual microblade elements 1 or groups of microblade elements 1 and the module interface on the edge side, for computer-controlled location and drive of the microblade elements 1 and / or for intercepting the photovoltaic-generated voltage U. pv Electrical conductors, for example, are applied to or integrated into the corresponding substrate as thin layers of metal. In particular, the conductive underlayers 21, 31 can also be designed with microstructures, that is, divided into segments that can be wired independently of each other.

[0059] Preferably, the microblade elements 1 of the illustrated embodiment are arranged in a regular matrix form consisting of parallel rows and parallel columns, wherein, in the closed state, the microblade elements 1 form a substantially complete surface coverage of the substrates 2 and 3. For this purpose, the microblade elements 1 preferably have a rectangular profile with edges having a length of 10 micrometers to 2 millimeters.

[0060] Figure 4 A schematic cross-sectional view is shown to illustrate a module 100 according to the invention, which is electrostatically driven. The illustration includes a single microblade element 1 housed in the gap between a rear-side substrate 3 and a front-side substrate 2, and arranged on the front-side substrate. The module 100 has a front side 10a and a rear side 10b, relative to an arrangement specified on a building facade.

[0061] The microblade element 1 forms an electrode and has a conductive electrode layer for this purpose. For clarity, the specific optical functions of the front side 11a and rear side 11b of the blade section 11 are not shown here. The front side substrate 2 includes a light-transmitting carrier 20, a light-transmitting and conductive bottom layer 21, and a light-transmitting and electrically insulating insulating layer 22. The microblade element 1 is arranged on the insulating layer 22 by its fastening section 12, and the oscillating movement of the blade section 11 is achieved by bending its hinge section 13. Figure 4 In the state shown, an electrical driving voltage U is applied between the microblade element 1 and the bottom side 21. act This electrostatic attraction between the bottom layer 21 and the microblade element 1 causes the blade section 11 to close to the horizontal, i.e., closed position shown. The dashed lines indicate two open positions of the blade section 11: a position substantially orthogonal to the substrates 2 and 3, corresponding to the maximum transmission of the module 100 when light is incident perpendicularly; and a semi-open intermediate position, in which an angle of approximately 45° exists between the blade section 11 and the substrates 2 and 3. The maximum open position is occupied when the microblade element 1 and the bottom layer 21 are at the same potential, while in the partially open intermediate position, a smaller driving voltage U occurs compared to the closed position. act Therefore, by changing the applied driving voltage U in a suitable manner... act The blade section 11 can be adjusted to open at the middle position of multiple parts with different angles relative to the substrates 2 and 3.

[0062] Figure 5 A schematic cross-sectional view of the module according to the invention, used to illustrate the inherent stress of the microblade element 1, is shown. However, for clarity, the optical function of the microblade element 1 is not shown. The microblade element 1 has a clamping layer 1a and a tensioning layer 1b disposed on a substrate 2. The effect of this inherent stress is that the illustrated microblade element 1 bends along the hinge section 13, for example, by a roll-up angle of approximately 90°. Along the fastening section 12, this bending is prevented by a connection conforming to the shape of the substrate 2, and along the blade section 11, the clamping compensation layer 1c ensures that the globally effective inherent stress disappears in the blade section 11, and thus no bending occurs there. For example, the illustrated layers 1a, 1b, and 1c can form the electrode layer of the microblade element 1 in their entirety, and the optical function of the microblade element 1 is generated by the untensioned layers or layer systems applied to the electrode layers on both sides.

[0063] Especially when using vapor deposition (PVD, CVD) methods, all layers are typically stretched, that is, for example, the photovoltaic layer system, colored layers, or matte layers with scattering effects are also stretched. In this case, suitably, the overall layer sequence is designed to compensate for mechanical stress in the planar blade section 11.

[0064] For global stress compensation in blade section 11, two distinct layers are theoretically sufficient. However, it is advantageous to use more than two layers, considering the design freedom in terms of functionality and dimensionality of the microblade element. Figures 1a-1b In embodiments 2a-2d, the microblade element 1 consists of three or four layers, wherein a greater number of layers may also be suitable and desired depending on the desired optical technology or micromechanical function.

[0065] Figure 6 A schematic diagram of a building facade with a system 200 according to the invention, consisting of optical technology modules 100, is shown. Here, the modules 100 are, for example, completely fitted within the building facade, wherein the rear side 10b of the modules 100 is oriented toward the interior of the building, that is, the front side 10a is exposed outward, and wherein the upper side 10c of the modules 100 is oriented in an upward manner. Representatively, the orientation of sides 10a-10d is shown at both modules 100. The configuration of the modules 100, relating to the arrangement of the corresponding microblade elements and the oscillation direction of the front and rear sides of the corresponding blade sections and the effect of the optical technology, is matched to the optical technology requirements of the corresponding sections of the building facade. Different fill patterns of the modules 100 used are shown to indicate the corresponding module configurations, but not the specific actuation situations, that is, the positions of the blade sections of the microblade elements. Orientation suitable for the embodiment shown here is illustrated according to a schematic wind rose diagram.

[0066] The south facade receives the strongest sunlight, making it particularly effective to utilize the photovoltaic energy harvesting capabilities of module 100. Furthermore, in the design of system 200, it is important to note that the south facade faces the adjacent street, thus it is essential to avoid glare for traffic caused by the mirror effect emanating from module 100, or "flashes" of light entering vehicles from above or the side.

[0067] Module 100.1, installed on a higher level of the south facade, has a photovoltaic layer system on the front side of the blade section of the microblade element and a mirror effect on the rear side. For example, module 100.1 corresponds to... Figure 2aIn one embodiment, microblade elements are arranged on a rear-side substrate, and the blade segments oscillate downwards in a direction of 10d from the closed position. The photovoltaic layer system absorbs light, thus preventing glare for pedestrians and, especially, road traffic, due to a mirror effect. The blade segments of module 100.1 are exemplarily located in a partially open position, thereby redirecting incoming sunlight into the room located behind the facade.

[0068] Generally, during the daytime, the microblade elements are continuously driven, meaning the position of the blade section is matched to the solar altitude and user needs. For example, at midday, they can be in a fully or partially closed position, thus completely or almost completely shading the interior while simultaneously ensuring effective sunlight exposure to the front of the photovoltaic active side of the blade section. Here, the fully closed position is generally not optimal in terms of photovoltaic energy harvesting because the angle of incidence of sunlight on the front side of the module may differ significantly from 90°. However, the partially open position of the blade section at a 90° angle with the incident sunlight is also not necessarily optimal, as adjacent microblade elements may shade each other in this case. Instead, there are optimal values ​​for maximum photovoltaic efficiency among the aforementioned positions, and preferably, the drive of the microblade elements can be controlled and / or adjusted by means of a controller to optimally utilize available sunlight throughout the daytime.

[0069] Module 100.2 has a photovoltaic layer system on the front side of the blade section of the microblade element and a scattering effect on the rear side. For example, the microblade element is arranged on the front side substrate, and the blade section swings in a direction 10d downwards from the closed position towards the lower side of module 100.2. In the closed position of the blade section, the scattering effect on the rear side creates a matte visual impression for an observer in the room, that is, unlike module 100.1, there is no large-area mirror effect, which may be considered inappropriate in some rooms, especially in public areas. Alternatively, an inward-pointing mirror effect may be desired, for example, in the form of a mirrored hall in a hotel, thereby creating a sense of spaciousness and better lighting.

[0070] Module 100.3, installed on the east facade, has a mirror effect on the front side of the blade section of the microblade element and a scattering effect on the rear side. For example, module 100.3 corresponds to... Figure 1dIn one embodiment, the microblade elements are arranged on the front side substrate and the blade section oscillates downwards in a direction of 10d from the closed position. Because the sun's altitude is low in the east, the mirror effect in the closed position of the blade section does not cause traffic obstruction due to light reflection. Module 100.3 generates targeted light redirection towards the building interior without creating a mirror effect when viewed from this location in the closed state.

[0071] Modules 100.4 and 100.5, installed in the lowest layer of the building facade, produce a distinctive colored appearance on the front side of the blade section of the microblade element, and have a mirror effect on the rear side. The colored appearance from the front side is based on, for example, a dielectric coating or pigment. Modules 100.4 and 100.5, which thus produce the colored effect, are particularly distinguishable design features. For example, different colored appearances or colored patterns can be produced on each front of the building facade, especially characters or logos.

[0072] The west facade is also partially equipped with modules 100.2 for photovoltaic energy harvesting, that is, a matte rear side with a photovoltaic layer system on the front and blade sections with microblade elements. In the case of the room with a sleeper shown in the upper right, all the blade sections of modules 100.2, as well as modules 100.3 and 100.6 on the north facade, are brought into a closed position, thus darkening the space.

[0073] The north facade receives indirect sunlight, particularly through diffuse scattering by clouds or the ground (e.g., snow). For this indirect light, dedicated light redirection and / or the use of photovoltaics can also be reasonable, wherein, exemplarily in this case, simply by means of... Figure 1d The embodiments of modules 100.3 and 100.6 describe light redirection. Module 100.6 includes microblade elements, the blade sections of which have a mirror effect not only on the front side but also on the rear side. Thus, in addition to its light redirection function for externally incident light, module 100.6 can, when needed, form a large-format mirror for the user in the closed position. In particular, for this purpose, module 100.6 can be configured to be driven individually, that is, independently of the other modules.

[0074] A key application of the system 200 according to the invention relates to energy saving and thermal management in buildings. By designing the building facade with the light technology module 100 according to the invention, heating of the interior can be significantly reduced in summer, while capturing as much valuable solar energy, including thermal radiation, as possible in winter.

[0075] In its implementation, the invention is not limited to the preferred embodiments given above. Instead, various variations of the solution shown are conceivable, employing substantially different types of embodiments. All features and advantages derived from the claims, specification, or drawings, including structural details or spatial arrangements, can contribute significantly to the invention not only individually but also in different combinations.

[0076] List of reference numerals

[0077] 100 optical technology modules

[0078] 200 systems for designing building facades

[0079] 10a Front and Side

[0080] 10b back side

[0081] 10c top side

[0082] 10d lower side

[0083] 1 micro blade element

[0084] 1a Compressive Layer

[0085] 1b tension layer

[0086] 1c compensation layer

[0087] 11-blade section

[0088] 11a Anterior

[0089] 11b rear side

[0090] 12 Fastening Sections

[0091] 13 articulated sections

[0092] 2 Front Side Substrate

[0093] 3 Backside substrate

[0094] 20, 30 carriers

[0095] 21, 31 bottom layer

[0096] 22, 32 insulation layers

[0097] 4 mirror layers

[0098] 5 Surface roughness structure

[0099] 6. Photovoltaic layer system

[0100] 61, 62 Compound semiconductors

[0101] 63 shielding layers

[0102] 64 electrodes

[0103] 7 electrode layers

[0104] U pv Photovoltaic voltage

[0105] U act Drive voltage

Claims

1. A light technology module (100) for building facades, wherein, With regard to the arrangement specified on the building facade, the module (100) has a front side (10a), a rear side (10b), a top side (10c), and a bottom side (10d), wherein the module (100) includes at least: - A front-side substrate (2) and a back-side substrate (3), wherein the front-side substrate (2) and the back-side substrate (3) are configured to be light-transmitting, and a gap is formed between the front-side substrate (2) and the back-side substrate (3), and - Multiple microblade elements (1) are housed in a gap, wherein each microblade element (1) has an opaque blade section (11) having a front side (11a) and a rear side (11b) for optical technology, wherein each microblade element (1) has a rectangular profile with a side length of 10 micrometers to 2 millimeters, wherein each microblade element (1) is hinged on a front side substrate (2) or a back side substrate (3) by means of a fastening section (12) on the edge side, such that each blade section (11) can swing from an opaque closed position toward an upper side (10c) or lower side (10d) about a horizontal swing axis to multiple light-transmitting open positions, wherein the front side (11a) or rear side (11b) has a mirror effect for visible light and / or near-infrared light, and the corresponding other side (11a, 11b) Equipped with a light technology function different from the mirror effect; and wherein the position of each blade segment (11) can be continuously matched with the height of the sun, and the front side (11a) or rear side (11b) having a mirror effect for visible light and / or near-infrared light can redirect the incoming sunlight into the building interior, that is, deflect the sunlight into the space arranged behind the relevant light technology module (100) according to user needs.

2. The module (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The front (11a) or rear (11b) side of the blade section (11) is constructed as a mirror layer (4) made of metal.

3. The module (100) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The front (11a) or rear (11b) side of the blade segment (11) has a scattering effect for visible light.

4. The module (100) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The front (11a) or rear (11b) side of the blade segment (11) has an absorption effect for visible light and / or near-infrared light.

5. The module (100) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The front (11a) or rear (11b) side of the blade section (11) is configured to produce a specific colored appearance.

6. The module (100) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, Each microblade element (1) has a layered structure, which includes at least a compression layer (1a) and a tension layer (1b), wherein, along the blade section (11) of each microblade element (1), a compression compensation layer (1c) is arranged on the tension layer (1b) such that each microblade element (1) is divided into the following sections: - The blade segment is constructed to be globally tension-free and has two substantially planar parallel surfaces (11). - A fastening section (12) rigidly arranged on the edge side of one of the substrates (2, 3), and - The hinged section (13) located in the middle has a bend caused by inherent stress, thereby forming the open position of the microblade element (1).

7. The module (100) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The blade segment (11) can be driven to swing between a closed position and at least one open position by means of electrostatic action. For this purpose, the front side substrate (2) and / or the back side substrate (3) have conductive layers, and the blade segment (11) has electrodes or forms electrodes, such that by applying an electrical voltage signal between the electrodes and the respective substrates (2, 3), a single microblade element (1) and / or a group of microblade elements (1) can be driven.

8. The module (100) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, Each microblade element (1) has at least one conductive layer, thereby forming an electrode layer (7), wherein the substrate (2, 3) to which it belongs has a layer structure including a bottom layer (21, 31) and an insulating layer (22, 32), wherein the fastening section (12) of each microblade element (1) is arranged on the insulating layer (22, 32).

9. The module (100) according to claim 8, characterized in that, Each microblade element (1) has a dielectric shielding layer (63) in its fastening section (12).

10. The module (100) according to claim 8, characterized in that, The front (11a) or rear (11b) side of the blade segment (11) has a photovoltaic layer system (6) on the electrode layer (7).

11. The module (100) according to any one of claims 1, 2, 9 and 10, characterized in that, The microblade elements (1) are arranged in a regular matrix form consisting of parallel rows and parallel columns.

12. The module (100) according to any one of claims 1, 2, 9 and 10, characterized in that, The module (100) has an addressing network consisting of electrical wires forming an electrical connection between each microblade element (1) or group of microblade elements (1) and an edge-side module interface, which is used to locate and drive the microblade elements (1) in a computer-controlled manner and / or to intercept the voltage generated by the photovoltaic.

13. The module (100) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The optical technology module (100) is used for window glass.

14. The module (100) according to claim 3, characterized in that, The front side (11a) or rear side (11b) has a suitable surface roughness structure (5).

15. The module (100) according to claim 4, characterized in that, The front side (11a) or rear side (11b) has a photovoltaic layer system (6), and the module is configured for photovoltaic energy harvesting.

16. The module (100) according to claim 5, characterized in that, The front (11a) or rear (11b) side of the blade section (11) is configured to produce a special colored appearance by means of a dielectric coating or by means of pigment.

17. The module (100) according to claim 8, characterized in that, The bottom layer (21, 31) is a light-transmitting and conductive bottom layer (21, 31), and the insulating layer (22, 32) is a light-transmitting and electrically insulating insulating layer (22, 32).

18. The module (100) according to claim 8, characterized in that, The front (11a) or rear (11b) side of the blade segment (11) has a pn junction based on organic semiconductors or inorganic semiconductors (61, 62) on the electrode layer (7).

19. The module (100) according to claim 11, characterized in that, All microblade elements (1) form a substantially complete surface coverage of the substrate (2, 3) in the closed state.

20. A system (200) for constructing a building facade, the system comprising at least a plurality of optical technology modules (100) according to any one of the preceding claims and at least one controller electrically connected to the modules (100), the controller being used to drive microblade elements (1) of the modules (100), wherein, Regarding the arrangement of the module (100), the rear side (10b) of the module (100) is oriented toward the interior of the building and the upper side (10c) of the module (100) is oriented to be located above.

21. The system (200) according to claim 20, characterized in that, The modules (100) have different configurations in terms of the arrangement of the microblade elements (1), the oscillation direction of the front (11a) and rear (11b) sides of the blade section (11) and / or the effect of the optical technology.

22. The system (200) according to claim 20, characterized in that, The system (200) is used to construct window glass.

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