Low-E Layer Marking via Laser Nanoparticle Formation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for marking and structuring low-E layer systems, such as those used in glass and polymer films, often result in mechanical damage, require additional process steps, or use expensive equipment, limiting their flexibility and efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A method involving laser radiation with wavelengths from the anti-reflective spectral range to create colored structures by forming nanoparticles of gold, silver, or copper within the low-E layer system, without additional process steps and using less expensive lasers, allowing for flexible and damage-free marking and structuring.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If known laser-based marking methods are used on the carrier material (glass or foil), then marking and structuring can be achieved, but mechanical damage occurs and mechanical stability is weakened
Solution Approach 1:
The invention introduces the low-E layer system as an intermediary medium that absorbs laser radiation and converts it to thermal energy, which then forms colored structures within the layer itself. This mediator approach allows marking without directly interacting with or damaging the carrier material, resolving the contradiction between marking capability and mechanical stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces mechanical marking methods (which cause cracks and damage) with a photothermal process. Laser radiation is converted to heat within the low-E layer, causing localized phase changes and nanoparticle formation that create visible markings without mechanical contact or stress on the carrier material.
2Adaptability or versatility
If laser-based marking methods are used, then flexible and computer-controlled marking is achieved, but expensive laser equipment and complex processes are required
Solution Approach 1:
The invention exploits changes in the optical parameters of the low-E layer system. By selecting laser wavelengths from the anti-reflective spectral range of the low-E system, the layer absorbs energy efficiently and converts it to heat, enabling marking with less expensive lasers while maintaining flexibility and computer control.
3Strength
If the low-E layer system is used to create colored structures, then mechanical damage is avoided, but the reflective properties of the low-E layer are altered
Solution Approach 1:
The invention applies local quality changes by creating colored structures only in specific irradiated areas of the low-E layer system. The nanoparticle formations and phase changes are localized to where laser radiation is applied, allowing marking without altering the reflective properties of the entire low-E layer, thus maintaining mechanical integrity while accepting localized optical 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 method produces stable, colored, and mechanically robust structures that maintain chemical resistance and thermal stability, while altering the reflective properties of the low-E layer system, enabling flexible marking and decoration without compromising the mechanical integrity or chemical resistance.
Implementation Method 1
laser radiation with a wavelength from the anti-reflective spectral range of the Low-E layer system is directed onto the Low-E layer system and its absorption in the metal layer heats it up
Implementation Method 2
the absorption in the metal layer heats it up so much that there is a drastic change in the layer system in the irradiated area
Implementation Method 3
there is a drastic change in the layer system in the irradiated area as a result of which a matrix with nanoparticles made of gold, silver or copper is formed
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to low-E layered systems containing at least one metal layer consisting of gold, silver or copper, which is embedded between layers of transparent metal oxides. According to the invention, the layered system is modified in the vicinity of the coloured structures to form a material configuration, in which the gold, silver and copper are present in the form of nanoparticles embedded in a matrix, which is formed from the substances of the layered system that were originally present in layers.