Stretchable Thermal Radiation Modulation via Crack Emissivity
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current thermal camouflage systems require complex preparation procedures and specialized materials, making them difficult to scale and apply in various applications, especially those that need controlled thermal radiation modulation upon mechanical force.
Innovation Solution
A thermal radiation modulation system comprising a low emissivity layer with strain-dependent cracks, consisting of a polymer composite layer and a mirror-like metal layer, bonded to a stretchable elastomer layer, optionally with a stretchable heater, allowing for reversible and tunable changes in surface thermal radiation by applying mechanical strain.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional thermal camouflage systems are used, then thermal radiation control is achieved, but the preparation procedures become complicated and specialized materials are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a composite structure consisting of a low-emissivity metal layer (such as aluminum or silver) deposited on a stretchable substrate. This composite material approach allows the system to achieve reliable thermal radiation control while using commercially available materials and simplified preparation procedures, avoiding the need for complex specialized materials
2Reliability
If conventional thermal camouflage systems are used, then thermal radiation control is achieved, but scalability and ease of application are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent achieves thermal radiation modulation by changing the physical state of the low-emissivity layer through mechanical stretching. When stretched, the layer's emissivity changes, allowing dynamic control of thermal radiation. This parameter-based control method is easily scalable and can be applied to various sizes and shapes using standard deposition techniques
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates a stretchable low-emissivity layer that can dynamically change its emissivity properties in response to mechanical deformation. This dynamic capability allows the thermal camouflage system to be actively controlled and is easily scalable to different applications without requiring complex preparation procedures
3Adaptability or versatility
If a low emissivity layer with cracks is used, then thermal radiation modulation is achieved, but the material structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent pre-stretches the low-emissivity layer during the deposition process or before application, creating a controlled crack pattern in advance. This preliminary action allows the material to exhibit tunable emissivity when stretched further during use, achieving versatile thermal radiation modulation while maintaining a relatively simple material structure that can be prepared using standard techniques
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 system enables instantaneous and reversible modulation of thermal radiation with a large modulation range, making it suitable for applications like motion detection, thermal encryption, and dynamic displays, using commercially available materials for ease of production and preparation.
Implementation Method 1
a first mirror-like metal layer with low emissivity covering a surface of the first polymer composite layer
Implementation Method 2
a first elastomer layer bonded to the first low emissivity layer opposite to the mirror-like metal layer... applying a tensile strain of greater than 0% to less than 200% to the system, wherein the thermal radiation modulation system undergoes a reversible and tunable change in surface thermal radiation level
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed herein is a thermal radiation modulation system comprising a first low emissivity layer comprising a plurality of distributed, strain-dependent cracks, the first low emissivity layer comprising a first polymer composite layer and a first mirror-like metal layer with low emissivity covering a surface of the first polymer composite layer; a first elastomer layer bonded to the first low emissivity layer opposite to the mirror-like metal layer; and optionally a first stretchable heater, the first stretchable heater is attached to the first elastomer layer opposite to the first low emissivity layer, wherein a top surface of the first low emissivity layer comprising the mirror-like metal layer has a lower emissivity relative to the first elastomer layer. Methods of making and use of the system are further described.