Solar Control Interlayer for UV and NIR Radiation Management
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current window technologies face challenges in maintaining adequate visible light transmission while minimizing ultraviolet (UV) and near-infrared (NIR) radiation transmission, which can cause damage and excessive heat load, respectively, particularly in building and vehicle applications.
Innovation Solution
Development of an interlayer film comprising NIR-absorbing materials, such as nanoparticles or dyes, combined with thermochromic systems and specific polymer matrices, which are dispersed or dissolved within a polymer matrix, and integrated with glass or plastic sheets, along with low-e coatings and edge seals to control solar energy transmission and visibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If conventional window materials are used, then visible light transmission is maintained, but UV and NIR radiation transmission causes damage and excessive heat load
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the solar spectrum into different wavelength ranges (UV, visible, NIR) and applies selective filtering to each band. The interlayer contains multiple additives that target specific wavelength ranges: UV absorbers for ultraviolet, NIR absorbers for near-infrared, while maintaining visible light transmission. This segmentation allows independent optimization of each spectral region's transmission properties.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs composite material formulation by combining the base polymer matrix with multiple functional additives including UV absorbers, NIR absorbers, thermochromic materials, and plasticizers. This composite approach creates an interlayer that simultaneously performs multiple functions: UV blocking, NIR blocking, visible light transmission, and temperature-responsive modulation, resolving the contradiction between radiation protection and light transmission.
2Loss of energy
If NIR-absorbing materials are added to block infrared radiation, then heat load is reduced, but visible light transmission may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by selecting NIR-absorbing additives with absorption spectra specifically targeted at the near-infrared region (wavelengths greater than 700 nm) while maintaining transparency in the visible region (400-700 nm). Examples include certain metal complexes and organic dyes that absorb strongly in NIR but are transparent or lightly colored in visible light, allowing selective energy blocking without compromising illumination.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter changes by incorporating thermochromic materials that alter their optical properties in response to temperature changes. At elevated temperatures, these materials change their absorption characteristics to block more NIR radiation when heat load is highest, while maintaining good visible light transmission at lower temperatures, thus dynamically optimizing the energy-to-light transmission ratio.
3Loss of energy
If thermochromic systems are incorporated to control solar transmission dynamically, then solar energy transmission is reduced under high temperature, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by incorporating thermochromic materials that automatically respond to temperature changes without external control systems. The interlayer itself performs the regulation function: when temperature rises indicating high solar exposure, the thermochromic additives change their optical properties to block more solar energy, and when temperature drops, they revert to allowing transmission. This self-regulating mechanism eliminates the need for external sensors, controllers, or power sources.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges multiple functional additives (UV absorbers, NIR absorbers, thermochromic materials, plasticizers) into a single integrated interlayer composition. Rather than using separate layers or components for each function, all additives are combined in one polymer matrix, simplifying the overall structure while maintaining complex functionality. This merging reduces manufacturing steps and installation complexity despite the multifunctional nature of the interlayer.
Data Source
AI summary
A laminate comprising a near infrared (NIR) absorbing interlayer is disclosed. The interlayer includes a NIR-absorbing substance dispersed or dissolved in a polymer matrix and may further include a thermochromic material or system. The interlayer is bonded between first and second sheets of plastic or glass. The first and second sheets may further be bent, strengthened sheets of glass.