Hydrophobic Film with Patterned Layer for Curved Surfaces
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hydrophobic windows require replacement when their hydrophobic properties weaken or their micro- and nano-structures are damaged, which is time-consuming and costly.
Innovation Solution
A hydrophobic film comprising a flexible substrate with a patterned hydrophobic layer, where the patterned layer is created using a carbon nanotube structure as a mask for dry etching, allowing for easy replacement and attachment to curved surfaces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If hydrophobic windows are prepared by etching micro-structure and nano-structure directly on the glass, then the hydrophobic property is achieved, but when the hydrophobic property weakens or the structure is damaged, the entire glass must be replaced which is time-consuming and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The invention separates the hydrophobic functional layer from the glass substrate by creating a detachable film structure. The hydrophobic micropatterned layer is formed on a flexible substrate that can be independently replaced, rather than being permanently etched into the glass. This allows the hydrophobic function to be segmented and replaced separately from the window glass.
Solution Approach 2:
The hydrophobic micropatterned layer is extracted from the glass substrate and transferred to a flexible substrate. This extracted layer can then be freely attached and detached from different glass surfaces, enabling independent replacement of the hydrophobic function without removing or replacing the glass itself.
2Reliability
If hydrophobic windows are prepared by etching micro-structure and nano-structure directly on the glass, then the hydrophobic property is achieved, but replacing the entire glass is costly
Solution Approach 1:
The hydrophobic functional layer is segmented from the glass substrate into a separate replaceable film. The flexible substrate with hydrophobic micropatterned layer can be independently manufactured and replaced at lower cost compared to replacing entire glass panes, reducing material loss and replacement expenses.
Solution Approach 2:
The flexible substrate with hydrophobic layer serves as a disposable or easily replaceable component. When the hydrophobic property degrades, only this cheaper flexible film needs replacement rather than expensive glass, aligning with the principle of using affordable, replaceable components for functional layers.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a flexible substrate is used for the hydrophobic film, then the film can be attached to curved surfaces and replaced easily, but additional attachment layers and processes are required
Solution Approach 1:
The invention uses a flexible substrate as the base for the hydrophobic micropatterned layer, enabling the film to conform to curved surfaces and irregular geometries. This flexible thin film structure provides adaptability to various window shapes while maintaining the hydrophobic functionality through the micropatterned surface.
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 hydrophobic film provides enhanced hydrophobic properties and flexibility, enabling cost-effective replacement of hydrophobic functionality without replacing the entire window, with a simple and efficient production method.
Implementation Method 1
forming the patterned hydrophobic layer by dry etching the hydrophobic layer pre-form using the carbon nanotube structure as a mask
Data Source
AI summary
A hydrophobic film is provided. The hydrophobic film includes a flexible substrate; a hydrophobic layer located on the flexible substrate, a heating layer, a first electrode and a second electrode spaced apart from the first electrode. The hydrophobic layer comprises a base and a patterned bulge layer on a surface of the base away from the flexible substrate. The heating layer is on a surface of the flexible substrate away from the hydrophobic layer. The first electrode and the second electrode are electrically connected to and in direct contact with the heating layer.