Liquid Tint Films with ORMOSIL Nanoparticles for Dynamic Window Coatings
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current window tinting methods require professional skills for installation and removal, are often dark, and do not conform well to curved surfaces, limiting visibility and causing installation issues such as wrinkles and damage to windows.
Innovation Solution
Development of film-forming liquid tint materials comprising an aqueous polymeric dispersion with photoactive, IR-absorbing, or pigmented agents, encapsulated in ORMOSIL nanoparticles, which can be applied easily and removed without residue, maintaining clarity and tintability based on light exposure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If professionally-installed tint is used, then the tinting provides heat rejection and UV protection, but it requires professional skills for installation and removal and is semi-permanent
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies reversibility to make the tint dynamic rather than static. The tint can be easily applied and removed multiple times by consumers without requiring professional skills, while maintaining its heat rejection and UV protection functions. This resolves the contradiction by making the installation process reversible and user-friendly while preserving the protective benefits.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables easy removal and recovery of the tint film by consumers. The tint can be discarded (removed) without damage to the window and can be reapplied if needed. This contrasts with semi-permanent professional tints that require specialized removal processes, thereby improving ease of operation while maintaining reliability.
2Reliability
If dark tint is used, then heat rejection and glare reduction are improved, but visibility during the night is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs photochromic materials that dynamically change their optical properties based on light conditions. The tint automatically adjusts its darkness level - becoming darker under sunlight to provide heat rejection and glare reduction, and lighter in low-light conditions to maintain visibility during the night. This dynamic adaptation resolves the contradiction between heat rejection and nighttime visibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the optical parameters of the tint material based on environmental conditions. The photochromic compounds alter their molecular structure in response to UV light, changing the tint's transparency and light absorption characteristics. This parameter change allows the same material to provide both heat rejection in daylight and adequate visibility at night.
3Adaptability or versatility
If DIY cut-to-fit films are used, then application flexibility is improved, but installation issues such as wrinkles and damage to window occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a liquid film formulation that can conform to any window shape and size without requiring pre-cutting. The liquid application method allows the tint to flow and adapt to curved surfaces and complex geometries, eliminating installation issues like wrinkles and bubbles while maintaining application flexibility for do-it-yourself users.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a liquid carrier system that allows the tint to be applied in liquid form and then dried to form a uniform film. This liquid-state application eliminates the mechanical handling issues associated with pre-cut films, such as wrinkles and bubbles, while still providing adaptability to various window shapes and sizes.
4Adaptability or versatility
If pre-shaped or cut-to-fit films are used, then coverage options are improved, but trimming can damage the window or its weather-stripping
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a liquid application system that eliminates the need for mechanical trimming. The liquid tint can be applied to cover the entire window or specific portions as needed, and excess material can be easily removed without cutting tools. This prevents damage to the window and weather-stripping while maintaining versatile coverage options.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical state of the tint material from solid pre-cut film to liquid application form. This parameter change allows for easy adjustment of coverage area without mechanical trimming, eliminating the risk of damage to the window and weather-stripping while providing flexible coverage options.
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 solution allows for easy application and removal of tinted films on various surfaces, including glass, without damaging the substrate, providing clear visibility during the day and tinted appearance under UV/visible light, while being easily removable and non-damaging.
Implementation Method 1
a photoactive component encapsulated in a plurality of ORMOSIL nanoparticles dispersed in the aqueous polymeric dispersion such that the photoactive component imparts a tint in the presence of UV and/or visible light
Implementation Method 2
an IR adsorbing component dispersed in the aqueous polymeric dispersion
Implementation Method 3
wherein upon contact with a substrate, the film-forming liquid tint material dries to a film that is clear and tintable
Data Source
AI summary
Provided are tinted or tintable and clear films formed from liquid tint material, and methods of making and using the same. Such films are useful to application to substrates such as glass, specifically windows on vehicles, to reduce glare from the sun, reject heat, provide protection from UV rays, and create a unique or decorative look to the vehicle. The films dry into a smooth and clear thin film. The film-forming liquid tint materials comprise: an aqueous polymeric dispersion; a tinting agent dispersed in the aqueous polymeric dispersion; wherein upon contact with a substrate, the film-forming liquid tint material dries to a film that is clear and tintable. The tinting agents, in particular, photoactive components, can be encapsulated in a plurality of ORMOSIL nanoparticles.