Multi-Layer Micron Particles for Selective Wavelength Scattering
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional photovoltaic cell installations are aesthetically unappealing and inefficient due to the need for dark, unfiltered exposure to ambient light, limiting their integration in structures where visual appearance is a concern, and existing light transmissive layers fail to modify light transmission equally in both directions.
Innovation Solution
Development of multi-layer micron-sized particles with controlled refractive indices for forming energy transmissive layers that selectively scatter specific wavelengths of electromagnetic energy, allowing remaining wavelengths to pass through, enabling the creation of transparent layers that appear opaque from one side while maintaining high transmissivity and allowing for color and pattern customization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If conventional photovoltaic cells are installed to harvest energy, then energy harvesting efficiency is improved, but visual appearance and aesthetic appeal deteriorate due to dark, unfiltered exposure
Solution Approach 1:
The photovoltaic cell assembly is segmented into multiple functional layers: the photovoltaic cell layer for energy harvesting, and a separate transmissive layer with controlled optical properties for aesthetic purposes. This segmentation allows each layer to independently fulfill its function without compromising the other.
Solution Approach 2:
A transmissive layer acts as an intermediary between the photovoltaic cell and the external environment. This intermediate layer selectively transmits visible light wavelengths while maintaining energy harvesting efficiency, thereby mediating between aesthetic requirements and functional performance.
2Ease of manufacture
If light transmissive layers are used to improve visual appearance, then aesthetic appeal is improved, but light transmission efficiency deteriorates in existing solutions
Solution Approach 1:
The optical parameters of the transmissive layer are precisely controlled by adjusting particle size, concentration, and refractive index to achieve selective wavelength transmission. This parameter optimization allows the layer to maintain high aesthetic appeal while preserving sufficient light transmission for energy harvesting.
Solution Approach 2:
The transmissive layer is constructed as a composite material system combining dielectric particles with specific refractive indices in a transparent matrix. This composite structure enables selective optical properties that simultaneously satisfy aesthetic requirements and maintain light transmission efficiency.
3Ease of manufacture
If existing light transmissive layers are applied to modify light transmission, then visual appearance is improved, but directional selectivity deteriorates as they fail to modify light transmission equally in both directions
Solution Approach 1:
The transmissive layer introduces asymmetry in light transmission properties, creating different optical effects when viewed from opposite directions. This asymmetric design enables the layer to appear opaque or colored from the exterior while remaining transparent from the interior, providing directional control over visual appearance.
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 enables the creation of aesthetically pleasing, energy-efficient light transmissive layers that hide photovoltaic cells or sensors while allowing substantial light penetration, enhancing the visual appearance of structures and maintaining efficient energy harvesting or sensing capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
These disclosed layers, once formed, selectively scatter specific wavelengths of electromagnetic energy back in an incident direction while allowing remaining wavelengths to pass therethrough
Implementation Method 2
forming a particular multi-layer micron-sized particle that is substantially transparent, yet that exhibits selectable coloration based on the physical properties of the particle layers manipulated in the forming process, resulting in the particles exhibiting controllable refractive indices
Data Source
AI summary
Methods are provided for forming a particular multi-layer micron-sized particle that is substantially transparent, yet that exhibits selectable coloration based on its physical properties. The disclosed physical properties of the particle are controllably selectable refractive indices to provide an opaque-appearing energy transmissive material when pluralities of the particles are suspended in a substantially transparent matrix material. Multiple-layered (up to 30+ constituent layers) particles result in an overall particle diameter of less than 5 microns. The material suspensions render the particles deliverable as aspirated or aerosol compositions onto substrates to form layers that selectively scatter specific wavelengths of electromagnetic energy while allowing remaining wavelengths of the incident energy to pass. The disclosed particles and material compositions uniquely implement optical light scattering techniques in energy (or light) transmissive layers that appear selectively opaque, while allowing 80+ % of the energy impinging on the light incident side to pass through the layers.