Infrared selective reflective polarizing element
US6185039A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 15, 1999 |
| Grant date | Feb 6, 2001 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 15, 2019 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG02B27/281
- WIPO fieldCivil engineering
- WIPO sectorOther fields
Abstract
The present invention provides light valves including polarizing elements in which light transmission can be controlled by rotating at least one of the polarizing elements about an in-plane axis. Although reflective polarizing elements are preferred in devices according to the present invention to reduce the problem of heat build-up, the use of absorptive or other polarizers may also be envisioned. The polarizing elements may also include at least one reflective polarizer in combination with an infrared reflective material or an infrared absorptive material. The polarizing elements can be included in light valves to control light transmission by rotating at least one of the polarizing elements about an in-plane axis. The light valves according to the present invention may find use in any application in which the transmission of light (visible or otherwise) is to be controlled. Examples of specific applications include, but are not limited to: windows, luminaires, skylights, etc.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.