Optical Film Composition Swelling Control via Interaction Parameters

Solution Overview

Problem

Current methods for predicting polymer swelling in solvents and their interaction with acrylic binders are inadequate, leading to unpredictable properties in optical films and display devices, as they fail to accurately account for specific molecular interactions and solvent-binder interactions.

Innovation Solution

A composition using a solvent screened based on solvent-polymer particle interaction parameters and solvent-(meth)acrylate binder interaction parameters, allowing for precise control of polymer particle swelling by calculating these parameters using mixing energy values, thereby ensuring optimal swelling and improved film properties.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If a solvent is used in the composition for optical film, then the swelling phenomenon of polymer particles occurs, but the swelling degree cannot be accurately predicted and controlled

Engineering Contradiction:
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies parameter changes by introducing interaction parameters (αPi for solvent-polymer particle and αBi for solvent-binder) to quantitatively characterize and control the swelling phenomenon. By calculating these interaction parameters based on mixing energy values, the patent transforms the unpredictable swelling behavior into a controllable process through parameter optimization.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements feedback by using the calculated interaction parameters to predict and adjust the swelling degree. The methodology allows for evaluating the swelling phenomenon based on the interaction parameters, creating a feedback loop where the predicted swelling behavior informs solvent selection and composition formulation to achieve desired film properties.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

2Reliability

If Hansen solubility parameter method is used to predict polymer swelling, then the prediction can be made, but specific molecular interactions and binder interactions are not considered

Engineering Contradiction:
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs composite materials approach by combining multiple interaction parameters (αPi and αBi) to create a comprehensive evaluation system. This composite parameter approach integrates both polymer-specific interactions and binder interactions, providing a more complete picture of solvent effects than single-parameter methods.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

Solution Approach 2:

The patent segments the interaction analysis into two distinct components: solvent-polymer particle interaction (αPi) and solvent-binder interaction (αBi). This segmentation allows for independent evaluation and optimization of each interaction type, enabling more precise control over the overall swelling behavior and film properties.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Measurement precision

If quantum computation methodology is used to evaluate molecular interactions, then accuracy is improved, but computational complexity and time increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses a computationally efficient approximation method that provides sufficient accuracy for practical applications without the excessive computational burden of full quantum computation. The interaction parameter calculation based on mixing energy values serves as a practical, time-efficient alternative that balances accuracy and computational cost.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #27Cheap short-living objects (Disposable)

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

This approach enables accurate prediction and control of polymer particle swelling, reducing haze variation and improving optical properties in optical films, even under high temperature and humidity conditions, and enhancing the solubility and distribution of polymer particles and binders.

Implementation Method 1

a swelling phenomenon may occur in which polymer particles, that is, polymers undergo swelling. Specifically, when polymers are exposed to a solvent, they undergo swelling by increasing the weight and volume of the polymer due to the penetration of solvent molecules into spaces between polymer chains.

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSwelling phenomenon: Absorption (physical)

Data Source

PatentUS12091520B2Composition for optical film, optical film and display device comprising the same
Publication Date: 2024.09.17
  • US12091520B2 patent drawing

AI summary

The present disclosure relates to a composition comprising: a solvent screened using a solvent-polymer particle interaction parameter αPi and a solvent-(meth)acrylate binder interaction parameter αBi, polymer particles, and a (meth)acrylate binder, and an optical film and a display device comprising the same.