Photochromic Article Customization Using Actinic and Deactivation Light
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional photochromic articles lack user control over tint, color, and pattern, as well as the activation and deactivation times, which are predetermined by the manufacturer based on factors such as the photochromic dye chosen and the concentration of the photochromic dye in the lens. Existing systems do not allow users to adjust these properties according to personal preferences or environmental conditions.
Innovation Solution
A customization system and method that includes a container with actinic and deactivation radiation sources, and a control device to manipulate the activation and deactivation of non-thermally reversible photochromic materials, allowing users to adjust the tint, color, and pattern of photochromic articles through actinic and deactivation radiation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If photochromic articles use predetermined manufacturer specifications for tint and color, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but user control and adaptability are lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-installing multiple photochromic materials with different activation characteristics into the article before use. This allows the user to select and activate specific materials based on their preferences and environmental conditions, providing adaptability without requiring complex real-time adjustment mechanisms. The customization is prepared in advance through material selection and configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter changes by varying the activation wavelengths, activation energies, and concentration levels of different photochromic materials. By selecting materials with different photophysical parameters, the system enables users to achieve desired tint and color effects under various lighting conditions. The control device manipulates these parameters through selective radiation exposure to different material layers.
2Ease of operation
If photochromic articles automatically activate and deactivate based on ambient light, then operational simplicity is maintained, but user control over timing and degree of activation is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the photochromic article into multiple functional layers or zones, each containing photochromic materials with different activation characteristics. The control device can selectively activate specific segments or layers based on user input and environmental conditions, providing both automatic response capabilities and user-controlled timing. This segmentation allows independent manipulation of different photochromic materials.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a control device as an intermediary between the ambient light environment and the photochromic materials. This intermediary can detect ambient light conditions and automatically trigger activation, while also responding to user inputs to modulate the timing and degree of activation. The control device mediates between automatic environmental response and manual user control.
3Adaptability or versatility
If conventional photochromic lenses use fixed dye concentration, then manufacturing consistency is maintained, but user preference and environmental adaptability are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by creating multiple distinct layers or zones with different photochromic material concentrations. Each layer can be manufactured with specific dye concentrations using standard manufacturing techniques, maintaining manufacturing consistency for each layer. The overall article provides adjustable tint degree by selectively activating different layers with appropriate concentrations.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes composite materials by combining multiple photochromic materials with different concentrations, activation wavelengths, and photophysical properties into a single article. This composite structure allows the manufacturer to produce each layer with consistent properties using conventional techniques, while the combination provides user-adjustable tint degree through selective activation of different materials.
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
Enables users to customize the tint, color, and pattern of photochromic articles, providing control over activation and deactivation times, enhancing user experience and adaptability to various lighting conditions.
Implementation Method 1
Photochromic articles change to a predetermined tint when irradiated with actinic radiation
Implementation Method 2
actuating at least one deactivation radiation source to deactivate the at least one non-thermally reversible photochromic material
Data Source
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AI summary
A system for customization of a photochromic article (14) includes a container (12) having an interior (28). At least one actinic radiation source (34) is located in the interior (28) of the container (12). At least one deactivation radiation source (36) is located in the interior (28) of the container (12). A method of customizing a photochromic article (14) includes inserting a photochromic article (14) having at least one non-thermally reversible photochromic material into a container (12) having at least one actinic radiation source (34) and actuating the at least one actinic radiation source (34) to activate the at least one non-thermally reversible photochromic material.