Component, vehicle and method

Abstract

The invention relates to a component (13) with a carrier material (14) and a coating (17) applied to the carrier material (14) for influencing a heat signature (12) of the component (13), wherein the coating (17) comprises an adhesion promoter (18), wherein the coating (17) comprises nanotubes (19, 20, 22), wherein a first set of nanotubes (19) is embedded partially in the adhesion promoter (18), wherein a second set of nanotubes (22) is arranged entirely outside the adhesion promoter (18), and wherein nanotubes (22) of the second set of nanotubes (22) are connected to nanotubes (19) of the first set of nanotubes (19, 20).

Description

[0001] COMPONENT, VEHICLE AND METHOD

[0002] The present invention relates to a component for a vehicle, a vehicle with such a component and a method for producing such a component.

[0003] Vehicles, especially military vehicles, emit heat into the area around them. This heat emission creates a heat signature specific to the vehicle. This means that the vehicle, particularly a specific vehicle type, can be identified in the field using the heat signature. The heat signature specific to the specific vehicle type allows enemy reconnaissance units to determine the vehicle type. This is undesirable, as the vehicle cannot then operate undetected in an operational area.

[0004] Against this background, an object of the present invention is to provide an improved component.

[0005] Accordingly, a component comprising a carrier material and a coating applied to the carrier material for influencing a thermal signature of the component is proposed. The coating comprises an adhesion promoter, wherein the coating comprises nanotubes, wherein a first portion of the nanotubes is partially embedded in the adhesion promoter, wherein a second portion of the nanotubes is arranged entirely outside the adhesion promoter, and wherein nanotubes of the second portion of the nanotubes are connected to nanotubes of the first portion of the nanotubes.

[0006] Because the coating contains nanotubes, it is possible to influence the heat signature of the component, in particular to modify and / or reduce it, so that the component no longer exhibits a heat signature characteristic of that component. The component can therefore no longer be detected based on its heat signature. For example, a vehicle equipped with such a component can operate undetected in an operational area.

[0007] The component can also be referred to as a structural part. The component can be part of a vehicle, in particular part of a vehicle cell of the vehicle. In particular, the component can be part of an outer shell of the vehicle or the vehicle cell. The component can, for example, be part of a roof of the vehicle cell. However, the component can also be part of a side wall, a floor, a door, a hatch, a flap or an engine hood of the vehicle cell. Furthermore, the component can also be a wheel bearing, a gearbox, a weapon, a radar system, a window or the like of the vehicle. The component can also be the vehicle itself. The component can be load-bearing. The component can also be suitable for immobile applications. For example, the component can be part of a building or a stationary radar system.

[0008] The carrier material preferably has a first surface facing the environment of the component and a second surface facing away from the environment. The second surface can face an interior of the vehicle or the vehicle cell. The coating is applied or attached to or on the first surface. To produce the coating, the adhesion promoter is first applied to the first surface. This can be done by spraying the adhesion promoter or by dipping the carrier material into the adhesion promoter. The adhesion promoter can also be printed onto the carrier material. The nanotubes are then introduced into the adhesion promoter. The carrier material preferably has high rigidity.In this context, "stiffness" refers to the resistance of a body to elastic deformation imposed by an external load and conveys the relationship between the load on the body and its deformation. Stiffness is determined by the body's material and its geometry. For example, the carrier material is made of a metallic material, a ceramic material, or a composite material. However, the carrier material is not a flexibly deformable fabric. The carrier material is, in particular, textile-free. The carrier material can also be fabric-free.

[0009] However, the carrier material can also be a film or the like. In this case, the carrier material is a carrier film and can also be referred to as such. The carrier material can also be made of polymers, in particular. Furthermore, free films or foils can also serve as the carrier material. The coating is applied to the carrier material. The carrier material is then applied together with the coating. For example, the component or the vehicle cell can be glued or covered with the film-like carrier material.

[0010] The "heat signature" of the component can be understood here as thermal radiation, in particular infrared radiation, which the component emits and which can be detected in particular by a photoreceiver of a thermal imaging device and displayed, for example, on a screen. The heat can be transferred beforehand, for example, from a heat source to the component. The heat signature arises in particular because the component emits heat, in particular in the form of infrared radiation. Furthermore, the heat signature can also result from the heating of other vehicle components surrounding the component, which can also emit heat. The heat signature can be characteristic of the component. This characteristic can result from a two-dimensional geometry, in particular an outline, the heat signature, and a pattern of the heat signature.A "pattern" is defined here as a heat signature that includes areas with high heat radiation and areas with heat radiation that is smaller than the former. The heat signature can include any number of different areas with different heat fluxes or different radiation intensities.

[0011] By "influencing" or "changing" the heat signature, we mean, in particular, that the emitted heat radiation is reduced, for example, or that it is no longer radiated at certain characteristic areas of the component. For example, the two-dimensional geometry and / or the pattern of the heat signature can be influenced. In particular, by influencing or changing the heat signature, a thermal signature reduction or signature control can be achieved. In particular, the coating can also be heat signature-reducing. The coating can therefore also be referred to as a heat signature-reducing coating. The coating can also be referred to as a heat signature-influencing coating or a heat signature-changing coating.

[0012] The adhesion promoter can be a varnish. Therefore, the adhesion promoter can also be referred to as a varnish. For example, the adhesion promoter can be a single-component varnish or a multi-component varnish. The adhesion promoter can also be referred to as a binder. The adhesion promoter can be sprayed or rolled onto the carrier material, for example. After the adhesion promoter has been applied to the carrier material, the nanotubes are incorporated into the adhesion promoter. For this purpose, the nanotubes can be applied, in particular sprinkled, onto the wet or uncured and / or non-crosslinked adhesion promoter.

[0013] The first part of the nanotubes then partially penetrates the wet or uncured and / or non-crosslinked bonding agent, while the second part of the nanotubes does not penetrate the bonding agent. The second part of the nanotubes is only coupled to the bonding agent via the first part of the nanotubes. This means that there is no direct connection between the nanotubes of the second part of the nanotubes and the bonding agent. The nanotubes of the second part of the nanotubes are only indirectly connected to the bonding agent via the nanotubes of the first part of the nanotubes. A "nanotube" (NT) is understood here to be an elongated hollow body with a diameter of less than 100 nm. The nanotubes are particularly preferably carbon nanotubes (CNT).

[0014] The fact that the nanotubes of the first part of the nanotubes are "partially" embedded in the adhesion promoter means, in particular, that the nanotubes of the first part of the nanotubes protrude beyond a surface of the adhesion promoter. The nanotubes of the first part of the nanotubes are thus arranged partly inside and partly outside the adhesion promoter. In particular, the nanotubes of the first part of the nanotubes protrude into the aforementioned environment of the component. The nanotubes of the second part of the nanotubes, on the other hand, are not placed inside the adhesion promoter and are thus arranged entirely within the environment. In particular, the nanotubes of the second part of the nanotubes are not wetted with the adhesion promoter.

[0015] The nanotubes of the second part of the nanotubes and the nanotubes of the first part of the nanotubes are connected to one another in such a way that the nanotubes of the first part of the nanotubes and the nanotubes of the second part of the nanotubes are interlocked or entangled with one another. In particular, the nanotubes of the second part of the nanotubes and the nanotubes of the first part of the nanotubes can be connected to one another in a form-fitting manner. A form-fitting connection is created by the interlocking or engaging of at least two connecting partners.

[0016] Alternatively or additionally, forces at the molecular or atomic level can also act between the nanotubes of the second part of the nanotubes and the nanotubes of the first part of the nanotubes. For example, the nanotubes of the second part of the nanotubes can be connected to the nanotubes of the first part of the nanotubes via van der Waals forces. The nanotubes of the first part of the nanotubes can be interlocked or tangled with each other. The same applies to the nanotubes of the second part of the nanotubes, which can also be interlocked or tangled with each other.

[0017] According to one embodiment, nanotubes of the first part of the nanotubes protrude beyond a surface of the adhesion promoter.

[0018] This means, in particular, that the nanotubes extend beyond the surface of the adhesion promoter into the surroundings of the component. The nanotubes of the first part of the nanotubes are thus partially located within the surroundings and partially within the adhesion promoter. Particularly preferably, the nanotubes of the second part of the nanotubes do not contact the surface of the adhesion promoter.

[0019] According to a further embodiment, nanotubes of a third part of the nanotubes are completely embedded in the adhesion promoter. The nanotubes of the third part of the nanotubes are thus completely surrounded by the adhesion promoter or encapsulated within it. Thus, the nanotubes of the third part of the nanotubes are not accessible from the environment. The nanotubes of the third part of the nanotubes can be interlocked or entangled with each other.

[0020] According to a further embodiment, the nanotubes have a minimum length of 500 nm.

[0021] Preferably, the nanotubes are longer than 500 nm. Because the nanotubes have a minimum length of 500 nm, it is possible for the nanotubes of the second part of the nanotubes to become entangled or tangled with the nanotubes of the first part of the nanotubes, so that they are connected to each other.

[0022] According to a further embodiment, the nanotubes are single-walled or multi-walled.

[0023] A mixture of single-walled nanotubes and multi-walled nanotubes can also be used. Both single-walled nanotubes (SWNTs) and multi-walled nanotubes (MWNTs) can be used. In particular, both single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) and multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) can be used.

[0024] According to another embodiment, the nanotubes are carbon nanotubes. However, other materials can also be used for the nanotubes. For example, the nanotubes can be made of boron nitride, titanium dioxide, sulfides, or halides. Mixtures of different types of nanotubes can also be used.

[0025] According to a further embodiment, the adhesion promoter comprises a nanotube-filled layer and a nanotube-free layer, wherein the nanotube-free layer is arranged between the nanotube-filled layer and the carrier material.

[0026] The nanotube-free layer is dispensable. In this case, the nanotube-filled layer is applied directly to the first surface of the substrate. The nanotube-filled layer and the nanotube-free layer are preferably chemically identical. The nanotube-filled layer and the nanotube-free layer differ only in that the nanotube-filled layer is filled with nanotubes, while the nanotube-free layer contains no nanotubes. The nanotube-filled layer is created by applying the nanotubes to the wet or uncured and / or non-crosslinked bonding agent. The nanotubes then penetrate or sink into the bonding agent, forming the nanotube-filled layer.

[0027] According to a further embodiment, a concentration of the nanotubes increases from a surface of the carrier material towards an outer side of the coating.

[0028] The aforementioned surface is the first surface of the carrier material. If the nanotube-filled layer and the nanotube-free layer are provided, the coating has no nanotubes directly on the first surface of the carrier material. Only at the transition point between the nanotube-free layer and the nanotube-filled layer are the nanotubes provided in the adhesion promoter. The concentration of nanotubes increases from the transition toward the outer surface of the coating, for example, from 0% to 100%. The "concentration" of nanotubes can be understood here as a volume fraction or a weight fraction of the nanotubes in the coating. Any volume fraction or weight fraction of the coating not occupied by the nanotubes is then occupied by the adhesion promoter.As previously mentioned, the concentration of nanotubes on the first surface of the carrier material is preferably 0%, whereas the concentration of nanotubes on the outer surface of the coating is 100%. Additionally, the coating can also be filled with other fillers, such as graphite. The proportion of nanotubes in the coating is preferably between 0.05 mass percent (wt%) and 30 mass percent.

[0029] According to a further embodiment, the adhesion promoter is filled with up to 30 volume percent of fillers in addition to the nanotubes.

[0030] The fillers can include graphite or metal powder, for example. Because additional fillers can be included, it is not necessary to clean the nanotubes before processing. This enables cost-effective production of the coating and thus also of the component.

[0031] According to a further embodiment, the carrier material is resiliently deformable, wherein the carrier material is made in particular of a metallic material.

[0032] This means that the carrier material can be changed from an undeformed state to a deformed state by applying a force. Once this force is no longer acting on the carrier material, it deforms independently from the deformed state back to its undeformed state. The carrier material is designed, in particular, to be inflexible or rigid. "Inflexible" or "rigid" in this case means, in particular, that the carrier material cannot be deformed easily, i.e., not without the application of a sufficiently large force. However, this does not preclude the carrier material from being elastically deformed by applying a sufficiently large force. In contrast to an inflexible or rigid carrier material, a "flexible" material is understood to be a material that deforms even upon the application of a small force, for example, due to the material's own weight.An example of a flexible material is a fabric, especially a textile fabric. The carrier material is usually textile-free or non-textile.

[0033] Furthermore, a vehicle, in particular a protected vehicle, with such a component is proposed.

[0034] The vehicle may have several such components. The component may, for example, be a vehicle cell of the vehicle as mentioned above or part of such a vehicle cell. The component may also be the vehicle itself. The vehicle may be a military vehicle, in particular a military utility vehicle. The vehicle may also be a civilian vehicle. The vehicle may also be a watercraft, a rail vehicle, or an aircraft. The fact that the vehicle is "protected" here means that the vehicle is protected against shelling, booby traps, improvised explosive devices (IEDs), mines, or the like. In particular, the component may be part of an outer shell of the vehicle cell. For example, the component is part of a roof of the vehicle cell.However, the component can also be part of a side wall, floor, door, hatch, flap, or hood of the vehicle. Furthermore, the component can also be a wheel bearing, gearbox, weapon, radar system, window, or the like of the vehicle. The component can be load-bearing. For example, the component is load-bearing if the component is part of the vehicle cell or if the component itself forms the vehicle cell. However, the component can also be suitable for immobile applications. For example, the component can be part of a building or a stationary radar system.

[0035] Furthermore, a method for producing such a component is proposed. The method comprises the following steps: a) applying an adhesion promoter to a carrier material, b) applying nanotubes to the adhesion promoter such that a first portion of the nanotubes is partially embedded in the adhesion promoter, a second portion of the nanotubes is arranged completely outside the adhesion promoter, and nanotubes of the second portion of the nanotubes are connected to nanotubes of the first portion of the nanotubes, and c) treating the adhesion promoter such that, with the aid of the adhesion promoter and the nanotubes, a coating is formed to influence a thermal signature of the component.

[0036] In step a), the adhesion promoter can, for example, be sprayed onto the carrier material. The carrier material can also be immersed in the adhesion promoter. The adhesion promoter can also be printed onto the carrier material. The adhesion promoter can, in particular, be applied layer by layer to the carrier material. In step b), the nanotubes can be applied to the wet or uncured and / or uncrosslinked adhesion promoter by, for example, sprinkling or spraying them onto the adhesion promoter. In this process, the nanotubes penetrate or sink at least partially into the wet or uncured and / or uncrosslinked adhesion promoter, creating a bond between the nanotubes and the adhesion promoter.Alternatively, the adhesion promoter can be a polymeric solid, in which the nanotubes are applied in the solid state of the adhesion promoter, and the binding effect only becomes apparent upon application of heat. The bonding of nanotubes and adhesion promoter then occurs, in particular, by the nanotubes sinking into the adhesion promoter. In step c), the adhesion promoter is treated. "Treated" in this case preferably means that the adhesion promoter is cured and / or crosslinked in step c), so that the bond between the nanotubes and the adhesion promoter is established to form the coating. Accordingly, the term "treatment" can be replaced by the term "curing" in this case. The curing and / or crosslinking of the adhesion promoter can be carried out or assisted, for example, by applying heat to the adhesion promoter.Depending on the type of coating, the application of heat may be necessary for the crosslinking process of the adhesion promoter and may be considered an additional manufacturing step. The adhesion promoter can, as previously mentioned, be a wet coating component or a polymeric solid, in which the nanotubes are applied in the solid state of the adhesion promoter, and the binding effect only becomes apparent upon the application of heat. The bonding of the nanotubes and adhesion promoter then occurs primarily by the nanotubes sinking into the adhesion promoter. In this case, the "treatment" of the adhesion promoter involves heat treatment. This process takes place, particularly above the required crosslinking temperature, in a doughy or liquid state of the adhesion promoter.

[0037] According to one embodiment, during step b), nanotubes of the first part of the nanotubes are applied to the adhesion promoter in such a way that these nanotubes protrude beyond a surface of the adhesion promoter.

[0038] In particular, during step b), nanotubes of the first portion of the nanotubes are applied to the uncured bonding agent in such a way that these nanotubes protrude beyond the surface of the bonding agent. Accordingly, the nanotubes of the first portion of the nanotubes are arranged at least partially within the bonding agent and at least partially outside the bonding agent. As previously mentioned, when applied or sprinkled onto the bonding agent, the nanotubes can at least partially penetrate or sink into it, thus establishing a bond between the nanotubes and the bonding agent.

[0039] According to a further embodiment, during step b), nanotubes of a third part of the nanotubes are applied to the adhesion promoter in such a way that these nanotubes are completely embedded in the adhesion promoter.

[0040] In particular, during step b), nanotubes of the third part of the nanotubes are applied to the uncured adhesion promoter in such a way that these nanotubes are completely embedded in the adhesion promoter. The nanotubes of the third part of the nanotubes are thus completely enclosed or enclosed by the adhesion promoter. The nanotubes of the third part thus completely penetrate the wet or uncured and / or uncrosslinked adhesion promoter when applied to it.

[0041] According to a further embodiment, during step b), the nanotubes are applied to the adhesion promoter in such a way that a concentration of the nanotubes increases from a surface of the carrier material towards an outer side of the coating.

[0042] During step b), the nanotubes are preferably applied to the uncured adhesion promoter in such a way that the concentration of the nanotubes increases from the surface of the carrier material toward the outer side of the coating. In particular, the concentration of the nanotubes increases from the first surface of the carrier material toward the outer side of the coating. Preferably, no nanotubes are provided on the first surface of the carrier material, with the concentration of nanotubes on the outer side of the coating preferably being 100%. This means, in particular, that the nanotubes completely cover the aforementioned surface of the coating.

[0043] The embodiments and features described for the proposed component apply accordingly to the proposed vehicle and / or the proposed method and vice versa.

[0044] "One" in this case is not necessarily limited to a single element. Rather, multiple elements, such as two, three, or more, may also be included. Any other counting term used here should not be understood as implying a limitation to the exact number of elements mentioned. Rather, numerical deviations upwards and downwards are possible, unless otherwise stated.

[0045] Further possible implementations of the component, the vehicle, and / or the method also include combinations of features or embodiments described above or below with respect to the exemplary embodiments that are not explicitly mentioned. In this case, the person skilled in the art will also add individual aspects as improvements or additions to the respective basic form of the component, the vehicle, and / or the method.

[0046] Further advantageous configurations and aspects of the component, the vehicle, and / or the method are the subject of the dependent claims and the exemplary embodiments of the component, the vehicle, and / or the method described below. The component, the vehicle, and / or the method are explained in more detail below using preferred embodiments with reference to the accompanying figures. Fig. 1 shows a schematic side view of an embodiment of a protected vehicle.

[0047] Fig. 2 shows the detailed view II according to Fig. 1!

[0048] Fig. 3 shows a schematic diagram where a concentration of nanotubes is plotted against a distance! and

[0049] Fig. 4 shows a schematic block diagram of an embodiment of a method for manufacturing the component according to Fig. 2.

[0050] In the figures, identical or functionally equivalent elements have been given the same reference numerals unless otherwise stated.

[0051] Fig. 1 shows a schematic side view of an embodiment of a protected vehicle 1.

[0052] The protected vehicle 1 is hereinafter referred to simply as a vehicle. The vehicle 1 can be a military vehicle, in particular a military utility vehicle. The vehicle 1 can be a hull-mounted vehicle. The vehicle 1 can be armed or unarmed. The vehicle 1 can also be a civilian vehicle. The vehicle 1 can also be a watercraft, a rail vehicle, or an aircraft. However, it is assumed below that the vehicle 1 is a military vehicle.

[0053] The vehicle 1 is assigned a coordinate system with a width direction or x-direction x, a height direction or y-direction y and a depth direction or z-direction z. The directions x, y, z are oriented perpendicular to one another. A direction of gravity g can be oriented opposite to the y-direction y. The vehicle 1 comprises a protected vehicle cell 2. The vehicle cell 2 is protected against gunfire, booby traps, improvised explosive devices (IEDs), mines or the like. The vehicle cell 2 encloses an interior space 3 in which crew members can be located. The interior space 3 of the vehicle cell 2 can be entered and exited from an environment 4 of the vehicle 1 via hatches or doors.

[0054] The vehicle 1 can be a wheeled vehicle. Alternatively, the vehicle 1 can also be a tracked vehicle. The vehicle 1 comprises several wheel axles 5, 6, on which wheels 7, 8 are provided. The number of wheel axles 5, 6 is fundamentally arbitrary. For example, two, three, or four wheel axles 5, 6 can be provided. At least one of the wheel axles 5, 6 is steered. Several wheel axles 5, 6 can also be steered. The vehicle 1 preferably comprises all-wheel drive. This means that all wheel axles 5, 6 are driven. The vehicle 1 is suitable for off-road use and can therefore also be referred to as an off-road vehicle.

[0055] The vehicle 1 has an internal combustion engine 9 for driving the wheel axles 5, 6 and the wheels 7, 8, respectively. The vehicle 1 can be driven exclusively by the internal combustion engine 9. Alternatively, the vehicle 1 can also be a hybrid vehicle. In this case, the vehicle 1 comprises one or more electric motors in addition to the internal combustion engine 9. In this case, the internal combustion engine 9 and the electric motor or motors are part of a hybrid drivetrain or hybrid drivetrain of the vehicle 1.

[0056] With the help of the wheels 7, 8 driven by the combustion engine 9, the vehicle 1 can move in a direction of travel F on a surface 10. The surface 10 can be a road, a gravel track, or any other type of terrain. The vehicle 1 can have a reverse gear, so that it can also move in the opposite direction of travel F.

[0057] The vehicle 1 has a heat source 11. The heat source 11 can, for example, be part of an exhaust system of the internal combustion engine 9. However, this is not mandatory. The heat source 11 can also be an electric motor, a windshield, a radar system, a transmission, a wheel bearing, or a weapon. For example, the heat source 11 can be an exhaust silencer system of the internal combustion engine 9. The exhaust silencer system can be a rear silencer. The heat source 11 can also be the internal combustion engine 9 itself. The heat source 11 can, for example, be arranged on the side of the vehicle cell 2, in a front area, or in a rear area of ​​the vehicle cell 2.

[0058] The heat source 11 emits heat Q, which can lead to at least a partial heating of the vehicle cell 2, which releases the heat Q to the environment 4. The heat source 11 can also directly release heat Q to the environment 4. By releasing the heat Q, the heat source 11 generates a heat signature 12, or the heat source 11 exhibits the heat signature 12. In other words, the heat signature 12 is created by the heat source 11 emitting heat Q, in particular in the form of infrared radiation. The heat signature 12 can also be created by the vehicle 1 heating up in the sun. In this case, the sun acts as the heat source 11.

[0059] Furthermore, the heat signature 12 also results from the heating of components of the vehicle 1 surrounding the heat source 11, which are heated and then also emit heat Q. The heat signature 12 is characteristic of the vehicle 1. This means that the vehicle 1, in particular a vehicle type of the vehicle 1, can be identified in the field with the aid of the heat signature 12. This heating with the aid of the heat source 11 creates a pattern of the heat signature 12 that is characteristic of the respective vehicle type, and with the aid of which enemy reconnaissance units can precisely determine the vehicle type. This is undesirable because the vehicle 1 cannot then operate undetected in an operational area.

[0060] In Fig. 1, the heat signature 12 is shown in a highly simplified form as a rectangle. The heat signature 12 can have any desired geometry or outline. Within this aforementioned rectangle, there are areas that emit more heat and areas that emit less heat compared to the former. This means, in particular, that there are areas in which the heat flow is higher and areas in which the heat flow is lower compared to the former. The heat signature 12 thus has a characteristic pattern. The heat signature 12 can be detected, for example, with the help of an infrared sensor and displayed on a screen.

[0061] Fig. 2 shows the detailed view II of the vehicle 1 according to Fig. 1.

[0062] In particular, Fig. 2 shows a detailed sectional view of the vehicle 1 or the vehicle cell 2. Even more precisely, Fig. 2 shows a sectional view of a component 13 of the vehicle 1. The component 13 can be part of the vehicle cell 2, in particular an outer shell of the vehicle cell 2. In particular, the component 13 is part of a roof of the vehicle cell 2. However, the component 13 can also be part of a side wall, a floor, a door, a hatch, a flap, or an engine hood of the vehicle cell 2.

[0063] Furthermore, the component 13 can also be a wheel bearing, a transmission, a weapon, a radar system, a windshield, or the like of the vehicle 1. The component 13 can be load-bearing. The component 13 can also be suitable for immobile applications. For example, the component 13 can be part of a building or a stationary radar system. The aforementioned heat

[0064] Signature 12 can be assigned to component 13.

[0065] Component 13 has a carrier material 14. The carrier material 14 is made of a solid material, such as a metallic material, a ceramic material, or a composite material, in particular a fiber composite material. The carrier material 14 can be, for example, a steel plate or an aluminum plate. The carrier material 14 can also be referred to as a substrate. Accordingly, the terms "carrier material" and "substrate" can be interchanged here. The carrier material 14 can also be referred to as a carrier plate.

[0066] The carrier material 14 is, in particular, inflexible or rigid. "Inflexible" or "rigid" in this case means, in particular, that the carrier material 14 is not readily deformable. However, this does not preclude the carrier material 14 from being elastically deformed by applying a sufficiently large force. In contrast to the inflexible or rigid carrier material 14, a "flexible" material is understood to be a material that deforms even upon the application of a small force, for example, due to the material's own weight. An example of a flexible material is a woven fabric, in particular a textile fabric. The carrier material 14 is, in particular, textile-free.

[0067] However, the carrier material 14 can also be a film or the like. In this case, the carrier material 14 is a carrier film and can also be referred to as such. The carrier material 14 can in particular also be made of polymers. Furthermore, free films or foils can also function as the carrier material 14. The carrier material 14 has an outer side or first surface 15 facing the environment 4 and an inner side or second surface 16 facing the interior 3. The first surface 15 faces away from the interior 3. The second surface 16 faces away from the environment 4. The surfaces 15, 16 can run parallel to one another. However, this is not absolutely necessary.

[0068] A heat signature-influencing coating 17 is applied to or on the first surface 15. The heat signature-influencing coating 17 reduces and / or modifies the heat signature 12 shown in Figs. 1 and 2, making it more difficult to detect the vehicle 1 or the component 13. "Heat signature-influencing" accordingly means that the heat signature-influencing coating 17 reduces and / or modifies the heat signature 12. Thus, the heat signature 12 is modified with the aid of the heat signature-influencing coating 17 in such a way that the component 13 or the vehicle 1 is no longer detectable at all or at least no longer identifiable with the aid of an infrared camera. The heat signature-influencing coating 17 is referred to below simply as the coating. The coating 17 is part of the component 13 or the vehicle 1.In particular, the coating 17 is applied to the outside of or on the vehicle 1, facing away from the interior 3 and towards the environment 4.

[0069] The coating 17 has an adhesion promoter 18 in which nanotubes 19, 20 (NT) are embedded, only two of which are provided with a reference symbol in Fig. 2. The adhesion promoter 18 can be a lacquer. Therefore, the adhesion promoter 18 can also be referred to as a lacquer. For example, the adhesion promoter 18 can be a single-component lacquer or a multi-component lacquer. The adhesion promoter 18 can also be referred to as a binder. The nanotubes 19, 20 are, in particular, carbon nanotubes (CNT) and can therefore also be referred to as such. A distinction must be made between nanotubes 19 which are not completely embedded in the adhesion promoter 18 and thus protrude beyond a surface 21 of the adhesion promoter 18 into the environment 4, and nanotubes 20 which are completely embedded in the adhesion promoter 18 and thus have no contact with the environment 4.In other words, the nanotubes 20 are completely surrounded or enclosed by the adhesion promoter 18. In Fig. 2, the nanotubes 19 are shown with dashed lines. The nanotubes 20, on the other hand, are shown with solid lines.

[0070] Furthermore, nanotubes 22 are provided, which are arranged completely outside the adhesion promoter 18. The nanotubes 22, which are placed completely outside the adhesion promoter 18, are connected to the nanotubes 19, which are partially embedded in the adhesion promoter 18. The connection between the nanotubes 19, 22 is purely mechanical and / or based on atomic or molecular interactions between the nanotubes 19, 22, such as van der Waals forces. The nanotubes 19, 20, 22 are identically constructed and each have a length of at least 500 nm. In Fig. 2, the nanotubes 22 are shown by dotted lines.

[0071] The nanotubes 19, 22 are connected to one another, in particular, in a form-fitting manner and / or via atomic or molecular interactions as previously mentioned. A form-fitting connection is created by the interlocking or engaging of at least two connecting partners. The nanotubes 19, 22 are interlocked or entangled with one another. The nanotubes 19, 20 can also be connected to one another, in particular entangled or entangled with one another. The nanotubes 19, 20, 22 and the adhesion promoter 18 together form the coating 17. An outer side 23 of the coating 17, formed by the nanotubes 19, 22, faces the environment 4. The outer side 23 is thus formed only by the nanotubes 19, 22. The surface 21 of the adhesion promoter 18 is thus completely covered by the nanotubes 19, 22.

[0072] The outer side 23 is arranged at a distance a from the first surface 15. The concentration of the nanotubes 19, 20, 22 increases from the first surface 15 toward the outer side 23. The "concentration" of the nanotubes 19, 20, 22 can be understood here as a volume fraction or a weight fraction of the nanotubes 19, 20, 22 in the coating 17. A volume fraction or weight fraction of the coating 17 not occupied by the nanotubes 19, 20, 22 is occupied by the adhesion promoter 18. The concentration of the nanotubes 19, 20, 22 at the first surface 15 is preferably 0%, whereas the concentration of the nanotubes 19, 22 at the outer side 23 is preferably 100%.

[0073] The adhesion promoter 18 is divided into a first layer 24 applied to the first surface 15, which is free of nanotubes 19, 20, 22, and a second layer 25 applied to the first layer 24, which is filled with nanotubes 19, 20. The first layer 24 can also be referred to as a nanotube-free layer. The second layer 25 can also be referred to as a nanotube-filled layer.

[0074] In Fig. 2, a dashed line indicates a transition 26 between the first layer 24 and the second layer 25. Starting from the first surface 15 toward the outer side 23, the transition 26 marks the point at which the adhesion promoter 18 contains nanotubes 19, 20. The concentration of nanotubes 19, 20 increases from the transition 26 toward the surface 21.

[0075] The layers 24, 25 are chemically identical and can be applied to the first surface 15 in the same manufacturing step. The layers 24, 25 differ from each other only in that the first layer 24 does not have any nanotubes 19, 20, 22, while the second layer 25 is filled with nanotubes 19, 20. A third layer 27, formed by the nanotubes 19, 22, is provided on the second layer 25. The first layer 24 is dispensable.

[0076] If the carrier material 14 is a film or carrier foil, the previously explained coating 17 is applied to the foil-like carrier material 14. Subsequently, the carrier material 14 is applied together with the coating 17. For example, the component 13 or the vehicle cell 2 can be glued or covered with the foil-like carrier material 14.

[0077] Figure 3 shows a schematic diagram in which the concentration of nanotubes 19, 20, 22 is plotted against the distance a.

[0078] In Fig. 3, the distance a is plotted in percent on the horizontal axis or abscissa axis. The concentration of nanotubes 19, 20, 22 is plotted in percent on the vertical axis or ordinate axis. The vertical axis is labeled "NT" for "nanotube." The zero point of the diagram shown in Fig. 3 lies on the first surface 15. This means that 0% of the nanotubes 19, 20, 22 are present on the first surface 15. 100% of the distance a corresponds to the outer side 23 of the coating 17.

[0079] If the first layer 24 is provided, the coating 17 has 0% nanotubes 19, 20, 22, starting from the first surface 15 up to the transition 26. From the transition 26, the concentration of nanotubes 19, 20, 22 increases until a concentration of nanotubes 19, 22 of 100% is reached at the outer side 23. The increase in the concentration of nanotubes 19, 20, 22, starting from the transition 26 toward the outer side 23, can be linear or exponential. With the aid of the coating 17, a change in the heat signature 12 is possible through a functionalized coating system, in particular through a paint coating, in the form of the coating 17. The coating 17 is in particular an inherent part of the component 13 or of the vehicle 1.

[0080] The adhesion promoter 18 is supplemented by additives in the form of nanotubes 19, 20, 22, which influence the thermal conductivity of the coating 17. Through a local or global application of the coating 17, the distribution of heat Q on the component 13 or on the vehicle 1 is specifically influenced, thus changing the heat signature 12. In particular, the dissipation of heat Q is specifically influenced. The heat signature 12 is thereby influenced, in particular reduced, because the heat Q is dissipated very quickly. The heat Q is dissipated so quickly that a camera or a heat sensor cannot "register" the heat Q. The coating 17 appears as if it does not dissipate any heat Q to the environment 4.

[0081] By using the coating 17, influencing the heat signature 12 becomes a property inherent to the vehicle. This property can be created using the painting process that is already required. Therefore, no additional manufacturing steps are required. Furthermore, influencing the heat signature 12 does not require the transport and / or installation of additional components, for example, in the form of mats or plates that can be mounted on the vehicle 1. Contamination of the coating 17 does not result in any deterioration in its properties.

[0082] In previously known in-house applications of nanotubes 19, 20, 22, a high degree of purity is necessarily required. In these known applications, no further impurities, such as metals, may be added to the nanotubes 19, 20, 22. This does not apply to the coating 17. To produce the coating 17, the nanotubes 19, 20, 22 can be introduced contaminated, for example, with impurities in the form of metal powders. This significantly reduces the costs of producing the coating 17, since the nanotubes 19, 20, 22 do not have to be laboriously freed of impurities beforehand.

[0083] No defined orientation of the nanotubes 19, 20, 22 is required. Untangling the individual nanotubes 19, 20, 22 is also unnecessary. On the contrary, the interlocking effect of the nanotubes 19, 20, 22 is used to build the third layer 27, which is free of the adhesion promoter 18. The interlocking or interlocking of the nanotubes 19, 20, 22 ensures better coupling and leads to improved thermal conduction within the coating 17. A temperature difference increases with the height of a temperature measurable at the component 13. This means that the coating 17 becomes more effective with increasing temperature.

[0084] In particular, the coating 17 can be realized by incorporating nanotubes 19, 20, 22 into existing paint systems. The application of the coating 17 is not limited to a vehicle 1 as previously mentioned. Both single-walled nanotubes (SWNT) and multi-walled nanotubes (MWNT) can be used as nanotubes 19, 20, 22. In particular, both single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNT) and multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) can be used as nanotubes 19, 20, 22.

[0085] The proportion of nanotubes 19, 20, 22 in the coating 17 is, for example, 0.05 to 30 mass percent (m%) when incorporated into the adhesion promoter 18. As previously mentioned, it is not necessary to clean or prepare the nanotubes 19, 20, 22 prior to processing. Rather, a combination of the nanotubes 19, 20, 22 with other additives, such as carbon black, graphite, pigments, additives, or the like, is possible to ensure the required performance properties for the respective intended use of the coating 17 or component 13.

[0086] The color of the coating 17 is variable and preferably freely selectable. The coating 17 is preferably matte, semi-matte, or has a texture, for example, a fine or coarse texture. The coating 17 can be created using various coating processes. For example, wet painting or powder coating are possible.

[0087] The coating 17 can be produced as a single- or multi-layer structure. For example, layers 24, 25 can be applied sequentially to component 13. The coating 17 can additionally be coated with a clear varnish as the top layer. However, the nanotubes 19 always protrude above the surface 21 and are mechanically bonded to the nanotubes 22 arranged outside the adhesion promoter 18. Layer thicknesses for layers 24, 25 can range from 1 mm to 5 mm, for example.

[0088] As previously mentioned, the nanotubes 19, 20, 22 have a minimum length of 500 nm, as otherwise they would not interlock or tangle. The nanotubes 19, 22 always protrude from the surface 21 or are arranged above it. The density or concentration of the nanotubes 19, 20, 22 increases with their distance from the carrier material 14, as previously explained with reference to the distance a. However, the bond to the carrier material 14 is ensured. The nanotubes 19, 22 continue to intertwine above the surface 21.

[0089] To produce the coating 17, the adhesion promoter 18 is first applied to the first surface 15. Before the adhesion promoter 18 has cured, the nanotubes 19, 20, 22 are introduced, in particular sprinkled, into the wet adhesion promoter 18. The coating 17 or the adhesion promoter 18 is then cured. The adhesion promoter 18 can be applied in powder or liquid form, or in another form. The adhesion promoter 18 can be, for example, a polymer binder.

[0090] Fig. 4 shows a schematic block diagram of an embodiment of a method for manufacturing component 13.

[0091] First, the carrier material 14, the adhesion promoter 18, and the nanotubes 19, 20, 22 are prepared. In a step S1, the adhesion promoter 18 is applied to the carrier material 14. The adhesion promoter 18 can be sprayed onto the carrier material 14. The carrier material 14 can also be immersed in the adhesion promoter 18. The adhesion promoter 18 can be applied layer by layer to the carrier material 14.

[0092] In a step S2, the nanotubes 19, 20, 22 are applied to the particularly wet or uncured and / or uncrosslinked bonding agent 18 in such a way that a first portion of the nanotubes 19 is partially embedded in the bonding agent 18, a second portion of the nanotubes 22 is arranged completely outside the bonding agent 18, and nanotubes 22 of the second portion of the nanotubes 22 are connected to nanotubes 19 of the first portion of the nanotubes 19. For this purpose, the nanotubes 19, 20, 22 can, for example, be sprinkled onto the wet bonding agent.

[0093] In a step S3, the adhesion promoter 18 is treated so that, with the aid of the adhesion promoter 18 and the nanotubes 19, 20, 22, the coating 17 for influencing the thermal signature 12 of the component 13 is formed. Treating the adhesion promoter 18 can include curing and / or crosslinking it. The curing and / or crosslinking of the adhesion promoter 18 can be carried out or assisted, for example, by applying heat to the adhesion promoter 18.

[0094] During step S2, nanotubes 19 of the first part of the nanotubes 19 can be applied to the particularly uncured and / or uncrosslinked adhesion promoter 18 in such a way that these nanotubes 19 extend over the surface

[0095] 21 of the adhesion promoter 18. Furthermore, during step S2, nanotubes 20 of a third portion of the nanotubes 20 can be applied to the particularly uncured and / or uncrosslinked adhesion promoter 18 in such a way that these nanotubes 20 are completely embedded in the adhesion promoter 18 or sink into it.

[0096] In addition, during step S2, the nanotubes 19, 20, 22 can be applied to the particularly uncured and / or uncrosslinked adhesion promoter 18 in such a way that the concentration of the nanotubes 19, 20, 22 increases starting from the first surface 15 of the carrier material 14 towards the outer side 23 of the coating 17.

[0097] Depending on the type of coating 17, the application of heat may be necessary for the crosslinking process of the adhesion promoter 18 and may be considered as an additional manufacturing step. The adhesion promoter 18 can be a wet paint component or a polymeric solid, in which the nanotubes 19, 20, 22 are applied in the solid state of the adhesion promoter 18, and the binding effect only becomes apparent upon the application of heat.

[0098] The aforementioned treatment of the adhesion promoter 18 in this case involves applying heat to it. The bonding of nanotubes 19, 20, 22 and adhesion promoter 18 then occurs by sinking the nanotubes 19, 20,

[0099] 22 into the adhesion promoter 18, in particular into the second layer 25. This process takes place, in particular, above the necessary crosslinking temperature in a doughy or liquid state of the adhesion promoter 18 or the second layer 25. Although the present invention has been described using exemplary embodiments, it is capable of being modified in many ways.

[0100] LIST OF REFERENCE SYMBOLS

[0101] 1 vehicle

[0102] 2 Vehicle cell

[0103] 3 Interior

[0104] 4 Surroundings

[0105] 5 wheel axle

[0106] 6 wheel axle

[0107] 7 wheel

[0108] 8 wheel

[0109] 9 Combustion engine

[0110] 10 Underground

[0111] 11 Heat source

[0112] 12 Heat signature

[0113] 13 Component

[0114] 14 Carrier material

[0115] 15 Surface

[0116] 16 Surface

[0117] 17 Coating

[0118] 18 adhesion promoters

[0119] 19 nanotubes

[0120] 20 nanotubes

[0121] 21 Surface

[0122] 22 nanotubes

[0123] 23 Outside

[0124] 24 shift

[0125] 25 shift

[0126] 26 Transition

[0127] 27 Layer a Distance

[0128] FF direction of travel g direction of gravity

[0129] NT nanotube Si step

[0130] 52 steps

[0131] 53 steps

[0132] Q Heat x x-direction y y-direction z z-direction

Claims

PATENT CLAIMS 1. Component (13) with a carrier material (14), and a coating (17) applied to the carrier material (14) for influencing a heat signature (12) of the component (13), wherein the coating (17) comprises an adhesion promoter (18), wherein the coating (17) comprises nanotubes (19, 20, 22), wherein a first part of the nanotubes (19) is partially embedded in the adhesion promoter (18) is embedded, wherein a second part of the nanotubes (22) is arranged completely outside the adhesion promoter (18), and wherein nanotubes (22) of the second part of the nanotubes (22) are connected to nanotubes (19) of the first part of the nanotubes (19, 20).

2. Component according to claim 1, characterized in that nanotubes (19) of the first part of the nanotubes (19) protrude beyond a surface (21) of the adhesion promoter (18).

3. Component according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that nanotubes (20) of a third part of the nanotubes (20) are completely embedded in the adhesion promoter (18).

4. Component according to one of claims 1 - 3, characterized in that the nanotubes (19, 20, 22) have a minimum length of 500 nanometers.

5. Component according to one of claims 1 - 4, characterized in that the nanotubes (19, 20, 22) are single-walled or multi-walled.

6. Component according to one of claims 1 - 5, characterized in that the nanotubes (19, 20, 22) are carbon nanotubes.

7. Component according to one of claims 1 - 6, characterized in that the adhesion promoter (18) has a nanotube-filled layer (25) and a nanotube-free layer (24), wherein the nanotube-free layer (24) is arranged between the nanotube-filled layer (25) and the carrier material (14).

8. Component according to one of claims 1 - 7, characterized in that a concentration of the nanotubes (19, 20, 22) increases starting from a surface (15) of the carrier material (14) towards an outer side (23) of the coating (17).

9. Component according to one of claims 1 - 8, characterized in that the adhesion promoter (18) is filled with up to 30 volume percent of fillers in addition to the nanotubes (19, 20, 22).

10. Component according to one of claims 1 - 9, characterized in that the carrier material (14) is resiliently deformable, wherein the carrier material (14) is made in particular from a metallic material.

11. Vehicle (1), in particular protected vehicle, with a component (13) according to one of claims 1 - 10.

12. Method for producing a component (13), comprising the following steps: a) applying (S1) an adhesion promoter (18) to a carrier material (14), b) applying (S2) nanotubes (19, 20, 22) to the adhesion promoter (18) in such a way that a first part of the nanotubes (19) is partially embedded in the adhesion promoter (18) is embedded, that a second part of the nanotubes (22) is arranged completely outside the adhesion promoter (18), and that nanotubes (22) of the second part of the nanotubes (22) are connected to nanotubes (19) of the first part of the nanotubes (19, 20), and c) treating (S3) the adhesion promoter (18) so that with the aid of the adhesion promoter (18) and the nanotubes (19, 20, 22) a coating (17) for influencing a heat signature (12) of the component (13) is formed.

13. The method according to claim 12, characterized in that during step b) nanotubes (19) of the first part of the nanotubes (19) are applied to the adhesion promoter (18) in such a way that these nanotubes (19) protrude beyond a surface (21) of the adhesion promoter (18).

14. The method according to claim 12 or 13, characterized in that during step b) nanotubes (20) of a third part of the nanotubes (20) are applied to the adhesion promoter (18) in such a way that these nanotubes (20) are completely embedded in the adhesion promoter (18).

15. Method according to one of claims 12 - 14, characterized in that that during step b) the nanotubes (19, 20, 22) are applied to the adhesion promoter (18) in such a way that a concentration of the nanotubes (19, 20, 22) increases starting from a surface (15) of the carrier material (14) towards an outer side (23) of the coating (17).

Images