Polymeric Emitting Layer for Uniform Surface Heating
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing heating devices for defrosting, defogging, and deicing suffer from obstructed views, opacity, optical distortion, insufficient uniformity, and inefficiency due to obstructive conductive traces or coatings on complex shapes.
Innovation Solution
A polymeric panel system with a radiation source coupled to an emitting layer comprising a host material and an emitting agent, where the emitting agent is localized to specific areas, using total internal reflection to emit radiation or heat uniformly from the emitting region, reducing water on surfaces effectively.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If conductive traces or coatings are used for heating, then heating function is achieved, but view obstruction and optical distortion occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the heating function from traditional conductive traces and relocates it to discrete heating zones using infrared LEDs. This separation removes the obstructive elements (traces) from the viewing area while preserving heating capability in specific regions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces infrared LEDs as intermediary elements that convert electrical energy to infrared radiation, which then heats the target surface without requiring visible conductive paths. This mediator enables heating while maintaining optical clarity.
2Temperature
If heating covers entire surface, then uniform heating is achieved, but inability to localize heating area occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the heating function into discrete zones by positioning infrared LEDs at specific locations (edges, corners, or intermediate areas). Each LED or group of LEDs creates a localized heating zone, allowing selective heating of different regions as needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different heating qualities to different areas by selectively activating infrared LEDs in specific locations. Edge LEDs provide heating at perimeters, while intermediate LEDs address central regions, creating locally optimized heating patterns.
3Temperature
If traditional heating devices are used, then heating function is provided, but low efficiency occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional resistive heating (mechanical/electrical conversion with heat loss) with infrared LED radiation (electromagnetic conversion). This substitution directs energy more efficiently to the target surface through infrared radiation, reducing energy loss.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes the phase transition properties of water (ice to water) by applying infrared radiation that directly heats the water molecules, facilitating efficient phase change from ice to water without excessive heat loss to surrounding 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
The solution achieves uniform heating and efficient defrosting, deicing, or defogging with reduced material usage and improved visibility by localizing the emitting agent, ensuring clear views and efficient energy projection to the desired areas.
Implementation Method 1
using total internal reflection to emit radiation or heat uniformly from the emitting region
Implementation Method 2
emitting one or both of radiation or heat from a surface of a device
Data Source
Figure 1~3
Figure 4~6
AI summary
In an aspect, an emitting device can comprise a radiation source that emits a source radiation coupled to an edge of an emitting layer; wherein the emitting layer comprises an emitting region comprising a host material and an emitting agent and a non-emitting region comprising the host material and that is free of the emitting agent; wherein the emitting agent comprises at least one of a luminescent agent or an absorber; wherein the emitting layer has a first surface and a second surface; wherein, during use, the source radiation is transmitted from the radiation source through the edge and excites the emitting agent such that, if the luminescent agent is present, the luminescent agent emits an emitted radiation, wherein at least a portion of the emitted radiation exits through the first surface through an escape cone; and, if the absorber is present, the absorber emits heat.