Thermally switched absorptive window shutter
US8760750B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 25, 2012 |
| Grant date | Jun 24, 2014 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 25, 2032 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG02F1/133538
- WIPO fieldOptics
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
The thermally switched absorptive optical shutter may be a self-regulating “switchable absorber” device that may absorb approximately 100% of incoming light above a threshold temperature, and may absorb approximately 50% of incoming light below a threshold temperature. The shutter may be formed by placing a thermotropic depolarizes between two absorptive polarizers. This control over the flow of radiant energy may occur independently of the thermal conductivity or insulation of the shutter device and may or may not preserve the image and color properties of incoming visible light. This has energy-efficiency implications as it can be used to regulate the internal temperature and illumination of buildings, vehicles, and other structures without the need for an external power supply or operator signals. The shutter device has unique optical properties that are not found in traditional windows, skylights, stained glass, light fixtures, glass blocks, bricks, or other building materials.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.