Pyramidal Structured Surfaces for Dynamic Color Rotation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing color-shifting technologies require the observer to change the angle of the substrate relative to the light source to achieve a color shift, limiting the dynamic and aesthetic appeal of color-shifting effects.
Innovation Solution
A substrate with an array of pyramidal structures coated with optically variable ink or paint, where the structures exhibit different colors when viewed from different angles due to varying dielectric coating thicknesses, allowing color shifts upon rotation, enhancing the visual effect and integration of color changes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If color shifting coatings are applied to a substrate, then color shifting effect is achieved, but the observer must shift the angle of the substrate relative to the light source to see the color change
Solution Approach 1:
The substrate surface is segmented into multiple pyramidal structures with different orientations. Each pyramid face is coated with optically variable material, and the segmented pyramid structures are arranged to present different colored facets to the observer as the substrate rotates, enabling color change without requiring angle shifting by the observer
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces rotational movement of the substrate to dynamically present different colored pyramid facets to the observer. The pyramidal structures are designed to rotate and reveal different colored faces as the substrate turns, transforming the static color-shifting effect into a dynamic color-changing display that occurs automatically during rotation
2Adaptability or versatility
If pyramidal structures are formed with optically variable ink, then color shifting by rotation is achieved, but manufacturing precision is required
Solution Approach 1:
The invention varies the optical parameters of the coating by applying optically variable material with different orientations on different pyramid faces. The dielectric coating thickness and orientation angles are optimized to produce specific color effects, allowing control over the color shifting behavior through parameter optimization rather than requiring extremely precise geometric formation of the pyramids themselves
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 provides a visually appealing and dynamic color-shifting effect by rotating the substrate, where different colors are observed as the pyramids rotate, achieving maximum color travel and reinforcement of colors with similar hue angles, optimizing the unit cell design for enhanced visual appearance.
Implementation Method 1
each pyramidal structure has at least three slanted faces and wherein one or more than one color is seen when viewing the pyramids vary as substrate is rotated at least 30 degrees about an axis orthogonal to the substrate
Implementation Method 2
the structures have at least three upstanding walls, wherein each wall contacts and terminates at a location where it contacts an adjacent upstanding wall, and wherein the walls slant inward from a base formed of or on the substrate
Data Source
AI summary
An optically variable device is disclosed having a substrate with an array of pyramidal structures formed upon it or within it. The structures are preferably formed by printing pyramids with an optically variable color-shifting ink using an Intaglio-like printing process. Alternatively the structure can be formed by embossing a layer of ink with positive pyramids so as to yield an array of positive embossed pyramids. Each of the structures form a pyramidal-like having at least three slanted faces and wherein one or more than one color is seen when viewing the pyramids vary as substrate is rotated at least 30 degrees about an axis orthogonal to the substrate. In order to see a color shift the device is rotated around the surface normal of the substrate, while keeping the angle of incidence to the light source the same, and keeping the viewing angle the same. Various forms of pyramids may be used, however pyramids with planar faces are most suitable.