Multi-Layer Optical Film Bladders for Structural Color Without Dyes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods of imparting color to man-made objects using dyes and pigments are environmentally unfriendly and lack aesthetic appeal, as they rely on chemical properties rather than physical interactions with light.
Innovation Solution
A multi-layer optical film is integrated into the bladder, which imparts structural color through physical interactions with light, eliminating the need for dyes or pigments and providing an aesthetically pleasing appearance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If dyes and pigments are used to impart color to the bladder, then color can be achieved, but environmental harm increases and aesthetic appeal deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the chemical system (dyes and pigments) with a physical/optical system (multi-layer optical film) to achieve color. The optical film uses interference, diffraction, or scattering of light to produce structural color, eliminating the need for chemical colorants and their associated environmental harm while maintaining ease of manufacture through film lamination.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a composite structure consisting of multiple layers (primer layer, optical film layer, and protective layer) to achieve the desired color effect. This composite material approach allows the optical film to interact with light in controlled ways to produce aesthetic colors without using harmful dyes or pigments.
2Ease of manufacture
If dyes and pigments are used to impart color, then color can be achieved, but aesthetic appeal deteriorates due to chemical properties rather than physical interactions with light
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes the chemical mechanism of color absorption/reflection with a physical optical mechanism. The multi-layer optical film creates color through physical interactions with light (interference, diffraction, or scattering), producing superior aesthetic appeal with iridescent or angle-dependent color effects that chemical dyes cannot achieve.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs structural color that can change appearance based on viewing angle, lighting conditions, or film orientation. This dynamic color behavior provides enhanced aesthetic appeal compared to static dye-based colors, as the color shifts and interacts with light in visually interesting ways.
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 multi-layer optical film effectively imparts structural color to the bladder, offering an environmentally friendly and visually appealing solution for articles of footwear and other consumer goods without the use of dyes or pigments, maintaining color consistency across various angles and lighting conditions.
Implementation Method 1
Structural color is caused by the physical interaction of light with the micro- or nano-features of a surface and the bulk material
Implementation Method 2
Color from dyes and pigments can be problematic in a number of ways. For example, dyes and pigments and their associated chemistries for fabrication and incorporation into finished goods may not be environmentally friendly.
Data Source
AI summary
One or more aspects of the present disclosure are directed to bladders that incorporate a multi-layer optical film that impart a structural color to the bladder. The present disclosure is also directed to articles including the bladders having a multi-layer optical film, and methods for making articles and bladders having a multi-layer optical film.