Adaptive Thermal Coating With Phase-Change IR Switching

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional passive thermal regulation systems are inefficient in maintaining temperature within a desired range, often continuing to cool below comfortable levels in cold weather, leading to increased energy consumption and reliance on fossil fuels.

Innovation Solution

A dynamic passive thermal management system using an adaptive coating with a phase change material that switches between cooling and insulating modes based on temperature, incorporating a first layer, a second layer, and a third layer with a dopant, allowing infrared radiation or insulation as needed.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Temperature

If conventional passive thermal regulation systems are used, then cooling function is provided, but temperature continues to decrease below comfortable levels in cold weather

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetemperature regulationVSAvoidtemperature range adaptability

Core Design Contradiction:

TemperatureVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies a phase change material that dynamically changes its thermal properties based on temperature. Above the phase change temperature, the material provides cooling through radiative heat transfer. Below the phase change temperature, the material transitions to an insulating state, preventing excessive cooling. This dynamic adaptation allows the passive thermal regulation system to maintain temperature within a comfortable range across varying environmental conditions.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

2Temperature

If active thermal regulation systems are used, then temperature can be regulated quickly and effectively, but external energy input is required

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetemperature regulationVSAvoidenergy consumption

Core Design Contradiction:

TemperatureVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs a passive thermal regulation system that utilizes the phase change material's inherent thermal properties to regulate temperature without external energy input. The material automatically switches between cooling and insulating modes based on temperature conditions, eliminating the need for powered HVAC systems or other active thermal regulation devices.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

3Temperature

If conventional passive thermal regulation systems operate continuously, then cooling function is maintained, but energy consumption increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetemperature controlVSAvoidenergy consumption

Core Design Contradiction:

TemperatureVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The patent changes the thermal parameters of the phase change material based on temperature conditions. By adjusting the material's thermal conductivity and radiative properties through phase change, the system optimizes its performance to maintain temperature control while minimizing energy loss. The material's properties are dynamically modified to match environmental conditions, preventing unnecessary energy consumption.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

The adaptive coating effectively regulates temperature by radiating infrared light above a threshold temperature and insulating below it, reducing energy consumption and fossil fuel reliance in residential and technology industries.

Implementation Method 1

In response to a temperature of the phase change material being greater than a threshold temperature, the adaptive coating can emit or 'radiate' light in the infrared spectrum

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectThermal radiation: Thermal Radiation

Implementation Method 2

In response to the temperature of the phase change material being less than the threshold temperature, the adaptive coating does not radiate light in the infrared spectrum

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectThermal insulation: Thermal Insulation

Data Source

PatentUS12571948B2Thermally adaptive coatings for efficient heating and cooling applications

Publication Date: 2026.03.10 JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY

AI summary

A composite and an adaptive coating are provided. The composite includes a first layer, a second layer disposed on the first layer, and a third layer disposed on the second layer. The third layer constitutes a phase change material characterized by a transition temperature. The phase change material includes a dopant. The adaptive coating includes a visible light filter and the phase change material. When a temperature of the phase change material exceeds a threshold temperature, the adaptive coating is configured to radiate light in the infrared spectrum. When the temperature of the phase change material is less than the threshold temperature, the adaptive coating is configured not to radiate light in the infrared spectrum.