Black Composite Coatings With LiDAR Reflectivity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing dark-colored materials absorb near-IR electromagnetic radiation, including LiDAR radiation, making them unsuitable for applications requiring both dark appearance and LiDAR detection.
Innovation Solution
Development of composite materials with copper oxide crystallites in the core or shell, achieving reflectivity greater than 12% in the near-IR and LiDAR spectrum while maintaining less than 10% reflectivity in the visible spectrum, with specific particle size, ratio, and concentration ranges.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Illumination intensity
If dark colored pigments (e.g., carbon black) are used to provide a dark appearance, then visible spectrum absorbance is improved, but near-IR and LiDAR spectrum reflectivity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by controlling the particle size of copper oxide crystallites (5-15 nm average size) and adjusting the ratio of different crystallographic planes ((−111)/(111) ratio between 0.5-1.5) to achieve selective optical properties. These parameter modifications enable the material to absorb visible light while reflecting near-IR radiation, resolving the contradiction between dark appearance and LiDAR detectability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses composite materials by combining copper oxide crystallites with a matrix material (such as polymer or metal substrate). This composite structure allows the copper oxide particles to provide the desired optical properties (absorbing visible, reflecting near-IR) while the matrix material provides structural support and additional functional properties
2Reliability
If copper oxide crystallites with specific size and structure are used, then near-IR reflectivity is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent specifies precise parameter ranges for copper oxide crystallite production: average particle size of 5-15 nm, (−111)/(111) plane ratio between 0.5-1.5, and blackness My value between 130-170. By defining these parameter ranges, the patent balances manufacturing precision requirements with achievable near-IR reflectivity performance
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 composite materials provide a pure black appearance while effectively reflecting LiDAR radiation, enhancing detection capabilities in autonomous vehicles and covert systems.
Implementation Method 1
a reflectivity in the visible spectrum of electromagnetic radiation that is less than or equal to 10.0%
Implementation Method 2
a reflectivity in the near-IR and LiDAR spectrum of electromagnetic radiation that is greater than or equal to 12%
Data Source
AI summary
A composite material having a core, and a shell at least partially encompassing the core. At least one of the core and the shell includes copper oxide crystallites. The composite material has a reflectivity in the visible spectrum of electromagnetic radiation that is less than or equal to 10.0%, and a reflectivity in the near-IR and LiDAR spectrum of electromagnetic radiation that is greater than or equal to 12%.