Thermally switched reflective optical shutter
US7755829B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 11, 2008 |
| Grant date | Jul 13, 2010 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 22, 2028 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG02F1/133538
- WIPO fieldOptics
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
The thermally switched reflective optical shutter is a self-regulating “switchable mirror” device that reflects up to 100% of incident radiant energy above a threshold temperature, and reflects up to 50% of incident radiant energy below a threshold temperature. Control over the flow of radiant energy occurs independently of the thermal conductivity or insulating value of the device, and may or may not preserve the image and color properties of incoming visible light. The device can be used as a construction material to efficiently regulate the internal temperature and illumination of buildings, vehicles, and other structures without the need for an external power supply or operator signals. The device has unique aesthetic optical properties that are not found in traditional windows, skylights, stained glass, light fixtures, glass blocks, bricks, or walls. The device can be tailored to transmit sufficient visible light to see through in both the transparent and reflective states, while still providing significant control over the total energy transmission across the device.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.