Variable Infrared Emissivity Substrate With Pendent Composite Sheets
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for materials and methods that can control and vary infrared emissivity for applications in identification, communication, and heat regulation, as existing technologies lack the ability to effectively modify and tune infrared radiation emission from surfaces.
Innovation Solution
A substrate with a surface of variable infrared emissivity is achieved by using pendent composite sheets, each with a first surface of higher emissivity and a second surface of lower emissivity, which can be independently moved to cover portions of the substrate, allowing for control of the infrared emissivity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a surface has fixed infrared emissivity, then the material structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but the ability to control and vary infrared radiation emission is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the surface structure movable rather than fixed. The pendent composite sheets can be dynamically repositioned between a first position (covering the substrate surface) and a second position (retracted), enabling the infrared emissivity to change from high to low states. This dynamic configuration allows the surface to adapt its thermal radiation properties in response to different operational requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the surface into multiple independent pendent composite sheets that can be individually controlled. Each sheet acts as an independent unit with dual surfaces (first surface and second surface) that can be selectively positioned. This segmentation enables granular control over the infrared emissivity distribution across the substrate surface, allowing different regions to have different emissivity characteristics.
2Adaptability or versatility
If pendent composite sheets are added to control infrared emissivity, then infrared radiation control is achieved, but the device complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs thin film structures for the pendent composite sheets, which are configured to be movable between different positions. These thin film elements can be fabricated using standard thin film deposition techniques and integrated onto the substrate. The flexible nature of these thin films allows them to be repositioned while maintaining their structural integrity and functional properties for infrared radiation control.
3Ease of manufacture
If the surface structure is simplified for ease of manufacture, then production is easier, but the ability to perform dynamic thermal management and camouflage is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service functionality where the pendent composite sheets automatically adjust the infrared emissivity of the substrate surface based on operational needs. The structure enables passive thermal management by allowing the sheets to be positioned in response to temperature conditions or control signals, eliminating the need for external active cooling or heating systems. This self-regulating capability enhances thermal management efficiency while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure.
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
This solution enables dynamic thermal management, camouflage technology, and heat regulation by altering the infrared emissivity of surfaces, allowing for efficient communication and identification through infrared-sensitive technologies.
Implementation Method 1
Infrared radiation is a form of thermal electromagnetic radiant energy which has wavelengths longer than those of visible light but shorter that those of radio waves
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a substrate having a surface of variable infrared emissivity, wherein at least one surface of the substrate comprises a plurality of pendent composite sheets fixed thereto. The present invention also relates to methods of varying the infrared emissivity on a surface of a substrate and its uses in dynamic thermal management, camouflage technology infrared communication and as a heat regulating protective cover.