Multilayer Identification Patches with Retroreflective Voids
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional identification patches for tactical professionals are fragile, difficult to read from a distance, especially in low light conditions, and lose integrity quickly under combat conditions, failing to provide effective identification in multiple light spectrums.
Innovation Solution
The development of advanced multilayer identification patches (AMIPs) featuring a reflective layer, a flexible polyvinyl chloride (PVC) design layer, and a hook-and-loop fastener attachment layer, which allow for visibility in visible, infrared, and ultraviolet light spectrums, with enhanced durability and legibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional embroidery or printing methods are used to create identification patches, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but readability from a distance and visibility in low light conditions deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies composite materials by combining retroreflective sheeting with PVC design layers and hook-and-loop fasteners. The retroreflective material contains microscopic glass beads or prisms that reflect light back to its source, dramatically improving visibility from a distance and in low light conditions while maintaining a relatively simple patch structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by creating voids or cutouts in the PVC design layer that correspond to identification symbols, allowing light to pass through to the retroreflective layer below. This selective transparency in specific areas enhances readability of the identification symbols while keeping the overall patch structure simple.
2Reliability
If conventional fabric and ink patches are used, then ease of manufacture is maintained, but durability under combat conditions deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines retroreflective sheeting with a protective PVC design layer that is more resistant to abrasion, moisture, and environmental degradation than conventional fabric and ink. This composite structure significantly improves durability under combat conditions while using standardized manufacturing processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a flexible PVC design layer as a protective shell over the retroreflective material. This thin film layer provides durability and resistance to environmental factors while maintaining the flexibility needed for field use and simple manufacturing processes.
3Adaptability or versatility
If single-spectrum reflective patches are used, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but adaptability to different light conditions deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies composite materials by combining retroreflective sheeting with PVC design layers and hook-and-loop fasteners. The retroreflective material contains microscopic glass beads or prisms that reflect light back to its source, dramatically improving visibility from a distance and in low light conditions while maintaining a relatively simple patch structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies universality by designing the patch to function across multiple light spectrums and conditions. The retroreflective layer reflects visible light back to the source, while the overall design allows the patch to be effective in various lighting environments including daylight, twilight, and nighttime conditions with artificial lighting.
4Illumination intensity
If exposed reflective material is used to maximize visibility, then visibility is improved, but durability under environmental exposure deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a flexible PVC design layer as a protective shell over the retroreflective material. This thin film layer provides durability and resistance to environmental factors while maintaining the flexibility needed for field use and simple manufacturing processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by creating voids or cutouts in the PVC design layer that correspond to identification symbols, allowing light to pass through to the retroreflective layer below. This selective transparency in specific areas enhances readability of the identification symbols while keeping the overall patch structure simple.
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
AMIPs provide improved visibility and durability, enabling effective identification of friendly forces in various light conditions, reducing misidentification and enhancing safety for tactical professionals.
Implementation Method 1
a reflective layer, a flexible polyvinyl chloride (PVC) design layer, and a hook-and-loop fastener attachment layer, which allow for visibility in visible, infrared, and ultraviolet light spectrums
Data Source
AI summary
A multilayer identification patch comprises a reflective layer and a design layer on top of the reflective layer. The design layer comprises an opaque body and at least one identification symbol void (ISV) to allow light to reflect from a portion of the reflective layer via the ISV. The opaque body of the design layer comprises multiple layers of cured photopolymer ink. The multiple layers of cured photopolymer ink comprise an opaque layer of colored photopolymer ink. In one embodiment, the multiple layers of cured photopolymer ink in the opaque body of the design layer further comprise a layer of clear photopolymer ink under the opaque layer of colored photopolymer ink. Other embodiments are described and claimed.