Optical Element Structural Coloration to Replace Dyes and Pigments
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional coloration methods using dyes and pigments are environmentally unfriendly and pose challenges in terms of fabrication and incorporation into finished goods.
Innovation Solution
The use of optical elements that impart structural colors through scattering, refraction, reflection, and interference of light, without the need for inks or pigments, optionally combined with textured surfaces or primer layers, to create aesthetically appealing colors on articles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If dyes and pigments are used for coloration, then color can be achieved, but environmental friendliness deteriorates and fabrication complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces chemical coloration methods (dyes and pigments) with physical optical methods. Specifically, it uses optical elements that manipulate light through scattering, refraction, reflection, and interference to produce structural colors. This substitution eliminates the need for harmful chemical substances while achieving the desired coloration effect through purely physical optical phenomena.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the fundamental parameter of coloration from chemical composition (dyes/pigments) to physical structure (optical element geometry). By controlling the structural parameters of optical elements such as layer thickness, refractive indices, and geometric configurations, the patent achieves different color effects without requiring different chemical substances, thereby improving environmental friendliness and simplifying manufacturing.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If optical elements are used to impart structural color, then environmental friendliness improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the optical element into multiple discrete layers with different refractive indices and thicknesses. Each layer is designed to contribute specifically to the desired optical effect through scattering, refraction, reflection, or interference. This segmentation allows for modular design and manufacturing of complex optical structures while maintaining environmental friendliness by eliminating chemical dyes and pigments.
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
Articles exhibit structural colors that are environmentally friendly and visually appealing, with the ability to change hues based on viewing angles, providing a range of color effects without the use of traditional pigments or dyes.
Implementation Method 1
optical elements that impart structural colors through scattering, refraction, reflection, and interference of light
Implementation Method 2
optical elements that impart structural colors through scattering, refraction, reflection, and interference of light
Implementation Method 3
optical elements that impart structural colors through scattering, refraction, reflection, and interference of light
Implementation Method 4
optical elements that impart structural colors through scattering, refraction, reflection, and interference of light
Data Source
AI summary
Components of articles that include an optical element that imparts structural color to the component are provided. Methods of making the components including the optical element, and methods of using the components such as to make an article of manufacture are provided.