DE10358812B4 - System for designing large areas of buildings or mobile systems using large-area diffraction patterns - Google Patents

Abstract

System for the design of large areas of buildings or mobile systems by large-area diffraction patterns, comprising one or more panels (15) attached to the large areas with a diffraction device comprising a plurality of individual bodies (31) connected to a common base support surface (30) Individual bodies are arranged and spaced from one another in such a way that they act as diffraction centers for the light beams, and wherein the individual bodies are structural elements from a thin-film production process, characterized in that
a single element (36) being mounted as part of a single body (31) movable relative to the base support surface (30) for an actuation mechanism acting in common on a single element or groups of individual elements to vary the effective lattice spacing between adjacent individual elements or individual elements;
and a controller (18) is provided for controlling the effective grid spacing between adjacent individual bodies (31) or individual elements (36) of the panel (15) and means for transmitting control signals to the panel (15).

Description

The The present invention relates to micro and nanostructure technologies and in particular grating arrangements for two-dimensional optical Grid. In particular, it relates to a device according to the preamble of claim 1.

dimensional Optical grids are currently essentially only for incorporation into spectrometers for the Area of spectral analysis known. You have real two-dimensional proportions, approximately in the form of a rectangle in the range of up to 20 cm edge length and are made of high quality materials, with the lattice structure has a grating period which is of the same order of magnitude as the wavelength of light. The grid arises e.g. by fine, sequential scribing using Diamond tips to generate furrows in a suitable solid material. It lies a periodic arrangement of many rectangular lines the crowd b1 and b2 before. Because with these grids b1 >> b2 applies, they are called one-dimensional.

The Diffraction effects that can be achieved on the grid are known. They are based on the overlay of elementary rays by diffraction (scattering, reflection and partial transmission) of structural elements which follow hereafter Also referred to as a scattering or mesa diffraction body occurs. You can create interesting-looking interference patterns.

in the Case of two-dimensional lattice, so if b1 and b2 in the same Magnitude to each other and the order of magnitude the wavelength of light lie, the light is diffracted throughout the half space. this will theoretically for example in Pedrotti, "Optics, an Introduction", Prentice Hall 1996, P. 479 ff., Discussed. A "cruciform two-dimensional figure arises as a diffraction image, instead of a "line-like one-dimensional" figure in use a one-dimensional grid.

Further For example, two-dimensional lattices are known which have arbitrary shapes as diffraction elements instead of the above grid bars (ribs) and furrows (grid trenches) have. A special embodiment, are holograms in which the Grid arrangements are designed so that their Fourier transform a desired one Image with recognition value for the human eye has, see about the holograms on bills.

Out US 2002/0105725 A1 is a device with two grating arrangements known, which are moved relative to each other in whole or in part can. It serves among other things the spectral analysis, the spectrometry and the fiber optic communication technology and achieved with the Movement of the gratings as such a selectivity with respect to certain wavelengths. In disadvantageously, however, the device can not be dimensioned over a large area because it would be too expensive.

The US patent US 5,148,302 relates to an optical modulation element which operates with a liquid crystal, and is - when applied over a large area - formed as a display, The device of the grid disclosed therein contains rigid single body. If there existing gaps are filled with a liquid crystal liquid, a modulation can be used. It uses the anisotropy in a liquid crystal to achieve the desired technical effects, such as small-scale optically modulating a certain area. Disadvantageously, however, the device can not be dimensioned over a large area, as it would be too expensive.

Regarding the influence of sunlight or artificial light in the field of large-scale application, such as in building windows, describes the German patent application DE 38 40 262 extensive hologram films or hologram plates. It discloses a system for facade design with holographic grating elements formed by a given diffraction grating. The grid has a permanently preset via the substantially fixed grid structure, light-guiding function. All the parameters of the film that are relevant to diffraction effects are rigid, except for so-called "swelling" of the film to increase lattice spacing.

Unfortunately can such or similar Diffraction effects are not varied, that is, with the same grating can only produce one interference pattern or a small one for holograms, fixed number (usually two) of diffraction images are generated.

It is therefore an object of the present invention, a device according to to provide the preamble of claim 1, the diffraction patterns can vary.

ADVANTAGES OF INVENTION

Of the The subject matter with the features of claim 1 solves this problem.

In the dependent claims find advantageous developments and improvements of respective subject of the invention.

The present invention is based on the fundamental knowledge that a zweidimensio nal grating with arbitrary arrangements and patterns of diffraction centers on lithographic path can also be prepared so that the individual bodies can be moved partially, in groups or completely by a suitable actuation mechanism to vary the lattice spacing uniformly or locally on the lattice arrangement differently.

Of the Term grid is for the purposes of the present invention in a general form using the four types of lattice (phase transmission grating, Phase reflection grating, amplitude transmission grating and amplitude reflection grating), as well as any variations of the lateral extent of the mesa (mountains, Footbridges) and the Mesazwischenräume (Valleys, Furrows, trenches). It is therefore a lattice with laterally varying periods and duty cycle meant.

the The most general aspect of the present invention therefore follows a diffraction device as a grating arrangement for the two-dimensional diffraction disclosed by light rays, with a plurality of common Basic carrier surface connected Individual bodies, whereby the single bodies so are arranged and spaced from each other so that they are in a two-dimensional Grid arrangement each act as diffraction centers for the light beams, and wherein the single bodies Structural elements from a thin film manufacturing process are, wherein according to the invention a single element as more or less prevalent Part of a single body relative movable to the base support surface for one to a single element or to groups of individual elements in common acting actuation mechanism is mounted to the effective grid spacing between adjacent individual bodies or individual elements or their duty cycle to vary. The single bodies are for example, individual mesa.

According to the aforementioned aspect of the present invention are those acting as diffraction centers single body or in each case a part of a "single element", movably mounted. In this case, for example, a single body in the form of a Einzelmesaelements movably mounted relative to the base support surface, to the effective lattice spacing between adjacent individual bodies vary. With that you can for one fixed observation point varying color effects can be achieved. Under "Variation effective grid spacing " in the following understood: on the one hand, the variation of the distances between the Single mesa (single mesa elements) and on the other hand the diffraction optical Relevant extent of mesa and mesas interspaces. Consequently can all lateral dimensions are varied (actuated), e.g. so the grating period and also the duty cycle.

• a) das Material für die Grundträgerfläche vorgewählt ist aus der Gruppe: organische oder anorganische Gläser, Kunststoffe, insbesondere Polymere, Metalle,
• b1) das Material für die Einzelkörper so gewählt ist, dass es als Opferschicht in einem Ätzprozess selektiv zu einem der vorgewählten Materialien geeignet ist, oder
• b2) das Material für die Einzelkörper so gewählt ist, dass es selektives Wachstum erlaubt, insbesondere durch Anwenden von Galvanik in tiefenlithographisch geformtem Polymethylmethacrylat (PMMA), dann wird damit erreicht, die Beugungsvorrichtungen auch in großem Maßstab auf großflächigen Flächen im Bereich von Dezimetern oder Metern zu schaffen, um die Beugungsmuster großflächig darstellen zu können. Außerdem ist damit ein Weg offenbart, wie ein derartiges optisches Gitter preisgünstig hergestellt werden kann. Damit ist der Weg frei für ein preisgünstig herstellbares Massenprodukt, das zumindest als Dekorationsobjekt für Gebäudefenster oder direkt bestrahlt durch Scheinwerfer oder die Sonne verwendet werden kann, um damit interessante Beugungsmuster zu erzielen oder bei langsamer Änderung des Betrachtungswinkels schöne Farbeffekte großflächig erkennen zu können.

If continue according to the following measures:

• a) the material for the base support surface is selected from the group: organic or inorganic glasses, plastics, in particular polymers, metals,
• b1) the material for the individual bodies is chosen so that it is suitable as a sacrificial layer in an etching process selectively to one of the preselected materials, or
• b2) the material for the individual bodies is chosen so that it allows selective growth, in particular by applying electroplating in deep lithographic molded polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), then achieved, the diffraction devices also on a large scale on large areas in the range of decimeters or meters to be able to represent the diffraction patterns over a large area. It also discloses a way in which such an optical grating can be inexpensively manufactured. Thus, the way is free for a mass produced inexpensively, which can be used at least as a decorative object for building windows or directly irradiated by spotlights or the sun, in order to achieve interesting diffraction patterns or to be able to recognize beautiful color effects over a large area with slow change of the viewing angle.

Further It is proposed that the grid arrangement be replicated as a module-replicable, areal, architecturally usable component with a suitable protective cover against the the effects of weather manufacture. This can then be used to equip wide façade surfaces. To contains the device according to the invention Connecting elements with which they are compatible with other devices same kind can be connected at the edge. For example, come. Notches, other lockable connectors or other, in Known prior art fasteners such as latching, in question.

If the device according to the invention pluggable Contains fasteners, wherein the connecting elements in addition to the mechanical connection also an electrical connector between devices the same Type included, there are advantages of easy handling, electrical control also in variants described below, in which the individual bodies are electrically can be moved.

If the single bodies the device according to the invention in regular Matrix form of parallel rows and parallel columns are arranged, facilitates production and control.

If the device according to the invention one or more actuation mechanisms with a predetermined Number of comb actuators contains, so can with a controlled movement of a comb according to many single body or individual elements evenly, similar and precise to be moved. This movement can then be exploited to the effective grid spacing between adjacent individual bodies or To selectively vary individual elements.

If the actuation mechanism is based on electrostatic forces, so arise favorable electrical properties with low holding currents.

If the device according to the invention an actuation mechanism for the lateral displacement of individual bodies or Contains individual elements or groups thereof, so you can the effective lattice spacing targeted between adjacent individual elements in a first direction vary.

Corresponding can be provided another mechanism to the distances in addition to a second direction, - preferred perpendicular to the first - targeted to vary.

If the individual elements flat are shaped, then let through change the orientation of the "surface normals" of the individual elements to the direction of view or to the direction of the incident radiation a change effect the effective grid spacing, creating beautiful color effects can be achieved.

If the individual elements flat are shaped and fixed to the base support surface or a Kammaktuator are mounted connected holding elements, wherein the storage a Movement of the individual elements by an electrostatic actuation mechanism allowed, then the desired change results from actuation the effective lattice spacing, by appropriate combination the above Kammaktuatoren with the aforementioned changes also superimposed can be.

One contains a so-called panel According to the invention, a device or a plurality of such devices described above.

Such contains a panel preferred a power supply terminal and a device for Receiving control commands from a controller.

In order to is a system for the design of building facades, walls, body parts created by mobile systems, etc., the one or more panel contains a control unit for controlling the effective grid spacing between adjacent ones individual bodies of the panel, and means for transmitting control signals to the panel. Thus, for example, a whole skyscraper facade specifically for the generation of color effects or diffraction pattern effects be used.

Advantageous is a system in which the control electronics, the logic contains which individual elements should be controlled as, centrally in a dedicated, remotely located controller provided is, from which an addressing network for controlling the single elements or modules that go largely into Form of printed wires in the plane modules already is provided integrated in their manufacture. This drops the Need away, in the facade element itself expensive, silicon-based Implement chip technology. Furthermore, for the production the diffraction arrangements themselves much cheaper materials used as high purity silicon. This results in production costs, at least of the same order of magnitude lie like other, conventional Facade elements.

As From the foregoing, the materials for the basic support surfaces on which a respective plurality of individual bodies, and the individual elements wear, by choice eg. Of glass, Plexiglas, plastics, in particular Polymers, in fact so chosen be that at least the material value of the basic support surface of a Module with one edge length For example, from just under 25 cm is very low.

As a material for the individual elements and the holding elements for the individual elements, in principle, such a material is recommended, which has a certain, long-term stable dimensional stability and at the same time is well suited to serve as a sacrificial layer in an etching process. In this case, various polymers such as thermotropic main chain liquid crystalline polymers and in a special way also commercial photoresist in question, which can be applied uniformly to form a uniform layer thickness. In order to achieve a high strength of the holding blocks, these locations can be made beforehand completely from dielectric materials, for example from suitable silicon nitrides, such as Si ₃ N ₄ , or silicon oxides, especially silicon dioxide (SiO ₂ ).

alternative can the material for the retaining elements chosen be that it allows selective growth, in particular by Apply electroplating in deep lithographic polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA).

If the individual elements in a special case in regular matrix form from parallel Lines and parallel columns are arranged, so there is a clear Production method, since the structures for the production relatively simple are replicable, which in particular for all such embodiments are important in which electrical supply lines of individual individual elements (see below) or for summarized groups of individual elements during the lithographic Need to be integrated into the manufacturing process.

there In particular, an electrostatic actuation come on the on is received below, a magnetic Akti vation, a piezoelectric and a thermal actuation in question.

Should the actuation mechanism for the individual elements - like is preferred here - on electrostatic forces based and for a lateral movement of the individual bodies substantially parallel used for the support surface are preferred, a comb actuator is preferred herein, the principle of which Structure and mode of action, for example, published in: Micromachined Polysilicon Microscanners for Barcode Readers, IEEE Photonics Technology Letters, Vol. 8, No.12, Dec. 196, pages 1707 to 1709, to this Purposes for the essential technical features of Kammaktuatoren as revelation source should serve. It is clear that the Aufrichtvorgang shown there as a result of the comb action for a pure lateral displacement of the single body is not necessary, however can nevertheless be used to the aforementioned flat executed single body a quiescent position to move almost to the effective effective Grid spacing also change.

Further can conveniently with a single comb a variety of individual bodies be moved, then all together on the moving part of the Kammes sit.

alternative is expediently a first electrode a single element and a second electrode assigned to the basic support surface. Optionally, the second electrode can also be used for several or all individual elements as areal trained electrode on the base support surface and firmly connected to this to be available.

at this embodiment is an electrical supply and contacting of the electrodes of individual individual bodies or groups of individual bodies preferably provide, which leads to one of the outer edges of the device to be forwarded from there. In particular, the electrical leads for computerized addressing and Actuation of the single-body movement and thus the movement of the individual elements over the electrode pairs as planar lines (integrated tracks) provided what a easy handling when laying the facade components according to the present Invention as well as a simplified care and less susceptibility across from Corrosion and other, harmful environmental influences entails.

In advantageously contain the above-mentioned fasteners in addition to the mechanical coupling elements and the corresponding electrical Plug-in connections, so that by a single plug-in operation both ensures the mechanical and the electrical connection is. For simple electrical connections to a control unit are possible, the together for a plurality of mated, inventive individual modules for control used the individual elements or small groups of individual elements becomes.

If, in a further advantageous manner, a single element is connected to the retaining element via a bridge element of predetermined bending stiffness, for example, then a simple dimensioning and design of the individual layer thicknesses and lengths results from the dependence between the force field and the tilt angle of the individual element achieved by the simple lever law and the relatively simple bending mechanics of a "beam" clamped at a free end The complex deformation of the connecting bridge (cantilever, bending beam) is in 3 shown. The movement of the mirror plane, as it were a tilting or pivoting movement of the mirror plane can be related to an axis which is perpendicular to the orientation of the bridge element and at the same time parallel to the base support surface. For reasons of clarity, a tilting or pivoting movement is therefore assumed below, and reference is made to the associated axis. This embodiment is easy to manufacture, since the bridge element can also be a structural element of a layer again. Tilt angles θ are possible between approx. -80 ° and + 30 °, with approx. 30 ° tilt, and if an actuation voltage can pull the single element up to 80 °, where θ = 0 ° corresponds to the horizontal when installed ,

If, in a further advantageous manner, the single element is attached to two elongated bridge elements which form a pivot axis for the region of the single element extending in a substantially parallel direction and attach to opposite sides of the single element, and the torsional rigidity of the bridge elements around its pivot axis to the electrostatic strengthens te is adapted between the electrodes, that a pivoting movement of the single body with selectively adjustable deflection angle is feasible relative to the base support surface, then results in a corresponding charge of the electrodes by attraction or repulsion, a tilting movement of the single element about the pivot axis perpendicular to the pivot axis of the above-mentioned example stands with a bridge element. The tilt angle φ here is the easiest possible without Vorkippung between about -80 ° and + 80 ° adjustable if the Aktuationsspannung in electrostatic actuation, the single element can pull up to +/- 80 °. The angle φ = 0 ° corresponds to the horizontal. This allows very wide ranges of the tilt angle.

Of the The central advantage of electrostatic actuation is that with good electrical insulation only small holding currents are needed.

If in a further preferred manner, a single element is mounted gimbal is through another bridge element pair, that within the swung according to the preceding claim Be rich is provided, this results in the full functionality of the angle adjustment for one change the effective grid spacing in the x and y direction. The angles θ and φ are almost independently adjustable from each other. Thus, the mirror itself is independent or dependent from the daily routine of the position of the sun very well traceable to the various applications to get the right mirror position. This sets a control program implemented in the control unit This requires the appropriate tracking logic and appropriate driver programs for the owns to the application coming overall system. In doing so, the overall system for example, consist of a large number of 2048 individual modules, each in 4 × 4, So groups of 16 each divided with a facade area a surface equip of 1 sqm, where a total of 128 such sub-areas contained in the overall system are.

If, as well as Preferably, the single element is oriented to the pivot axis, that a pivot axis divides the single element off-center, so is a further parameters for optimizing the tilt angle found, wherein For example, the short side as a side to attraction or repulsion Electrodes can be used. A short lever means then a wide range of tilting movement, but requires accordingly high power.

According to one particular aspect of the present invention is a use the invention, two-dimensional constructed, optically acting device in the form of a grid in which they are used to design large areas by large-area diffraction patterns is used.

Especially therefore advantageous is a use in which this device as a component in a construction activity used for the construction or renovation of building facades, or used in the mobile systems with relatively large, visible ble surfaces according to the invention be, such as the body surfaces of motor vehicles such as trains, Buses, trams, Passenger cars, or the large areas of trucks and their followers, or the body surfaces of aircraft.

DRAWINGS

embodiments The invention is illustrated in the drawings and in the following Description closer explained. The mentioned single body serve as mesa diffraction bodies in the sense the achievement of diffraction effects.

It demonstrate:

1 in a schematic view representation of an overall system according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention comprising a panel for a facade part surface with a plurality of individual modules according to the invention and the associated control devices;

2 a schematic representation of the peripheral coupling devices between two individual modules 12 out 1 ;

3 a schematic cross-sectional view of a single body with mesa diffraction body, as often repeatedly arranged on a single module 12 in 1 is present, according to a first embodiment of the present invention;

4 a schematic plan view of the in 3 shown individual body;

5 a schematic cross-sectional view of a single body, as often repeated in a single module 12 out 1 occurs, in a preferred variant according to the invention, in which the mesa diffraction body is suspended on two sides;

6 a plan view of the single body according to 5 ;

7 in a schematic plan view of further details for the relative arrangement and orientation between mesa diffraction body and bridge element according to variants A), B) and C) according to the embodiment of 5 and 6 ;

8th in a schematic plan view of a single body of a preferred, further embodiment of the present invention, in which a mesa diffraction body is gimballed;

9A in a sketchy representation of a development of gimbaled individual body after 8th with non-rectangular shape;

10 in a schematic plan view (detail) shows a plurality of rectangular mesa diffraction bodies in a 2-row grid arrangement

11 in a schematic top view representation (detail) of a plurality of rectangular mesa diffraction bodies in a 3-row grid arrangement,

12 in a schematic plan view representation (detail) a plurality of rectangular mesa diffraction bodies in a 3-row grid arrangement, (lattice spacing preset only in the x direction, wherein the non aktuierte initial position is shown above, ge in the middle of one of several realizable aktuierten positions of a central portion ge is shown, wherein nine mesa diffraction bodies are laterally displaced.

13 in a schematic plan view (detail) a grid arrangement with a plurality of rectangular and line-shaped diffraction bodies of different sizes.

14 an overview of different types of lattice, which are relevant to the inventive solution.

DESCRIPTION THE EMBODIMENTS

In the same reference numerals designate the same or functionally identical Components.

In reference to 1 is a panel according to the invention 15 shown containing a plurality of matrix-like arranged (array-shaped) individual modules 12 , where the outer dimensions of the panel 15 about 1m to 1 m.

The individual modules 12 In turn contain again a variety of optically acting mesa diffraction bodies, which are also arranged like a matrix in regular rows and columns on a common support surface, which, however, in 1 not shown for reasons of clarity. How out 1 also visible, are the individual modules 12 of identical shape and interconnected, with more details in 2 are shown.

A drive network consisting essentially of planar lines inside each individual module 12 and contacting between the individual modules is provided in accordance with the invention to selectively move the abovementioned individual bodies with their mesa diffraction bodies by means of a corresponding electrical actuation on the basis of electrostatic forces in order to be able to achieve color effects in a targeted manner. For this purpose is a supply line 20 provided that a DC voltage of, for example, the order of 60V via a dedicated connection 21 to a specially designed individual module 12 supplies.

Furthermore, there is a sensor 16 provided, which is also operatively connected to the Aktuierungsnetzwerk and is adapted to control signals from a control unit 18 wireless or - if wired, then advantageously in an encapsulation with a connection to the power supply of the panel - to receive, so that individual individual modules 12 or to selectively electrostatically actuate individual mesa diffraction bodies or groups of mesa diffraction bodies. The sensor can be, for example, an infrared (IR) or an ultrasound or a radio sensor. The control unit 18 contains the necessary hardware to run a program that includes all the algorithms necessary to move the mirrors according to a programmed move. These algorithms are well known in the art.

The corresponding driver programs for implementing a special control geometry and an associated special control network are also easy for the person skilled in the art to produce and in the control unit 18 contain.

With further relation to 2 becomes the coupling between individual modules 12 out 1 described in more detail.

Two individual modules 12A and 12B with square contour are edge and corner flush arranged with shock with their respective edge sides together. Advantageously, a snap connection 22a and further snap-in connections 22b each eccentrically provided to the two individual modules 12A and 12B mechanically connect at two points. Furthermore, there is an electrical contact 24 provided that the electrical connection between the control network production of the two individual modules. In 2 If only two individual lines are shown, (+ and -), it is of course also possible to implement a plurality of such electrical contacts, if this is appropriate for circuit-technical or production-technical reasons, eg because fewer crossover points should arise between the lines crossing each other. In order to limit the complexity of the driving network and the resulting complex boundary conditions of the manufacturing process for the implementation of these lines as a planar circuit during a thin film manufacturing process, it is proposed to optionally control whole groups of individual bodies together, so that with identical production of the individual body for all roughly equal pivotal movement or lateral movement of the mesa diffraction body takes place. Subgroups are, for example, one or more rows of individual bodies of a single module 12 at. Similarly, single or multiple columns can be controlled together with the same control signal.

The Circuit within a line can, for example, from a series connection a complete line or selected subsections of a Line, depending on how large the voltage drop during the Activation of a single single body is. In the preferred It is therefore advisable to in a single line a parallel connection of series circuits for the to realize the above subgroups.

With further relation to 3 and 4 Hereinafter, the structural constitution of a single body carrying a mesa diffraction body will be described. The entire single body is with reference numerals 31 characterized. On a base support surface 30 which has already been mentioned above is a holding element 32 suitable cross-section and with appropriate height in relation to the pivoting movement of the mesa diffraction body 36 intended. At which the base support surface opposite end portion of the holding element 32 is a bridge element 34 attached, which has elongated shape and the mesa diffraction body 36 wearing. The bridge element 34 has an end portion with which it on the holding element 32 is attached and a free, airborne end section to allow it by a force in 3 directed upwards and downwards, with its free end flexurally elastic from a rest position, in 3 is shown horizontally, can be deflected. It is conveniently the bridge element 34 at least with a portion which is an electrode, and the counter electrode 38 is the basic carrier surface 30 assigned and firmly connected to this by a corresponding thin-film process.

As 4 shows, the bridge element is elongated and has, see also 3 , a relatively thin thickness, so that a respective bending elasticity of the bridge element suitable for the actuation voltages 34 can be realized. The mesa diffraction body 36 is a separate layer and has a shape with which it is preferably in the in 3 shown manner can be moved up and down without colliding with the bridge element itself or with the counter electrode. Therefore, it preferably has a recess around a portion of the bridge element 34 around, which is associated with the holding element.

The cross-sectional shape of the holding element 32 can be varied in a wide range as long as the required strength is given to perform precise mesa-diffraction-body motion. The edge dimensions a _x and a _{y of} the mesa diffraction body 36 can be varied in a wide range, in which case the height and strength of the holding element 32 suitable to be set up so that a smooth movement of the mesa diffraction body 36 results. In this case, the edge lengths of the mesa diffraction bodies and their distances can vary, at least in one direction, preferably in a range which is defined by the diffraction condition, edge length in the order of the wavelength, for example between 200 and 1400 nanometers. The exact shape and arrangement of the mesa diffraction bodies 36 should also be of the future intended use of the individual modules 12 or the panels 15 be made dependent. This is essential especially for holograms.

The contact between the bridge element formed as an electrode 34 and the associated part of the connection network can preferably via the holding element 32 take place if the connection network, as preferred here in the lower part of 3 is arranged, for example, just above the base support surface, where it is suitably electrically isolated from this. When the bridge element 34 is made of a metal or at least has a metal coating, which also has good electrical conductivity and good reflective properties, then the contact between bridge elements and connection network, for example via a through hole through the support member 32 through, or alternatively, it can also be at the edge of this in 3 seen from top to bottom, run. The counter electrode 38 is also made of conductive material and is depending on the design of the material of the basic support surface 30 possibly separated by an insulating layer of this, what in 3 not shown for the purpose of increased clarity. If the networks for electrode and counter electrode are respectively supplied with voltage, so that between the electrodes an abutting or repulsive force arises, the mesa diffraction bodies move, as in 3 is indicated, according to the laws of electrostatics and the forces in an electric field.

With further relation to 5 and 6 In the following, a further preferred embodiment for the embodiment of a single body or mesa diffraction body according to the invention will be described in more detail. In this embodiment, the mesa diffraction body 36 on two bridge elements 34A and 34B fastened, wherein the bridge elements in turn each have their own holding element 32A respectively. 32B are attached. As 6 more precisely, it is an asymmetric arrangement, as in 7b ) is shown as a variant.

In this embodiment results in a pivoting movement of the mesa diffraction body 36 one at the drawing level of 5 lying axis, since the bridge elements 34A and 34B are manufactured as easily twistable mechanical elements, which are activated via electrodes just as in the previous embodiment. In this case, the mesa diffraction body 36 Expediently used as an electrode, and there are two counter-electrons 38A and 38B provided on opposite sides of the pivot axis, see 6 are arranged on the base support surface. Also in this embodiment, the mesa diffraction body 36 through through holes through the holding blocks 32A and 32B be contacted. It can also be provided only a pair of electrodes.

Furthermore, it should be noted to the embodiments shown above that one and the same holding block 32 respectively. 32A or 32B not just for a bridge element 34 , or 34A or 34B can serve, but equal to the next bridge element can be used with. For this purpose, a bridge element expediently extends to one side and a bridge element to the opposite side of the holding element.

With further relation to 7 will be described embodiments for the above embodiments.

7 shows in a schematic plan view of further details for the relative arrangement and orientation between mesa diffraction body and bridge element according to variants A), B) and C) according to the embodiment of 5 and 6 ;

In 7A ) is the mesa diffraction body 36 at the edge with the bridge elements 34A and 34B connected. In this embodiment, only a single pair of electrodes on one side of the pivot axis can be used to perform the mirror movement. This electrode pair would then be advantageously arranged in a selectively preselected distance from the pivot axis, both in the case of the electrode on the mesa diffraction body and in the electrode on the base support 30 ,

At the in 7B and 7C shown variants can in principle on both sides of the pivot axis, by the bridge elements 34A and B, electrode pairs are attached. In the 7B The variant shown here contains the widest possible variations in order to achieve the widest possible pivotal movement of the mesa diffraction body 36 to enable. Because if the actuation voltage can be chosen large enough to be at the short end 70 To be able to act, so a large angular range can be realized without the risk that touch the mesa diffraction body in its extreme deflection and the counter electrode, in the event of attraction between the two elements.

In 7C For the sake of completeness, the case of the symmetrical division of the mesa diffraction body halves is shown again.

With further relation to 8th another preferred embodiment of the present invention is described, which is characterized in that a single element is mounted in the manner of a Kardanic bearing with respect to two mutually substantially independent pivot axes.

8th shows in a schematic plan view of a single body, a preferred further embodiment of the present invention, in which a mesa diffraction body is gimbaled. The holding elements 32A respectively. 32B are in 8th assigned to the left or right edge of the representation. Of these holding elements guide the bridge elements 34A and 34B , see. 5 and 6 forming a common pivot axis in each case inward and meet there on a swing frame 80 , This is designed as an electrode and can with one or two counter electrodes 38A respectively. 38B interact, cf. the description 5 and 6 , This results in a pivoting movement of the swing frame 80 around the common pivot axis of 34A and 34B , It is now within the swing frame 80 a further pivot bearing provided, namely about a pivot axis which is formed by an inner bridge element 84A and another inner bridge element 84B , each one the swing frame 80 with the mesa diffraction body 36 or its fixed support 86 connect.

With further relation to 9A and 9B is a variant of the particularly preferred embodiment according to 8th shown and described in more detail, in which the two pivot axes are not at right angles. Furthermore, the mesa diffraction body shape is also not rectangular, but has a cornerless outer contour, which in the 9 By way of example, arbitrary, here is shown pear-shaped to show that here almost any formal treasures can be chosen. This is also suitable for the production of holograms. In this case, only to the extent that it is necessary to constructively reconstruct the changed geometry of this irregular structure changes to the actual structural design of the mesa diffraction body support. For example, the locations of the electrodes are adapted accordingly, the spacings of the holding elements from each other, etc. In that regard, the description of the structure of the single body with the rectangular shaped, gimbaled mesa-diffractive body (mesa) can be used for further details. For the geometric design of the Mesazwischenräume between the mesa diffraction bodies and the mesa diffraction body itself again the technological tools of surface micromechanics described below are used. This distinguishes these actuatable (movable) holograms on the one hand by the manufacturing process and on the other hand by the variability of conventional holograms (K. Buse, E. Soergel, Holography in Science and Technology, Physik Journal, 2, No. 3, page 37 (2003).

From the in 8th shown example of the cardan bearing with the inner bearing 86 and the possibility mentioned there, the single element from the plane of the swing frame 80 to emphasize, there is the possibility of dimensioning the size of the mesa-mesa diffractive body substantially independent of the size of its substructure, which is responsible for its pivotal mounting. Will the distance between bottom single element and top swing frame 80 chosen large enough, so arise only by simple geometrical considerations, the maximum possible pivot angle, to the mesa-diffraction body at a portion of the swing frame or the outer holding elements 32 strikes.

In reference to 10 . 11 . 12 and 13 In the following, the effects are illustrated and described by systematic displacement of mesa diffraction bodies or groups of mesa diffraction bodies, or by pivoting of the area-shaped mesa diffraction bodies according to FIG 3 to 6 described:

10 shows in a schematic plan view (detail) a plurality of rectangular mesa diffraction bodies in a 2-row grid arrangement

In which the grid spacing is preset only in x-direction, and above the not actuated initial position is shown, and below one of a plurality of feasible actuated positions is shown, wherein the previously constant grid spacing splits into an enlarged and a smaller one;

11 shows in a schematic plan view illustration (detail) a plurality of rectangular mesa diffraction bodies in a 3-row grating arrangement, wherein the grid spacing is preset only in the x-direction, wherein the unactuated initial position is shown above, in the middle of one of several realizable aktuierten positions of is shown, wherein nine mesa diffraction bodies are deflected about their left-aligned longitudinal axes from its rest position, and the projected into the xy plane distances between the elements in this area in the x direction are increased (variation of the effective grid spacing). Below, the mesa diffraction bodies are shown in a schematic side view along the plane of the paper of the middle illustration;

12 shows in a schematic plan view representation (detail) a plurality of rectangular mesa diffraction bodies in a 3-row grid arrangement, (lattice spacing preset only in the x direction, wherein the unactuated initial position is shown above, in the middle of one of several realizable aktuierten positions of a central portion is shown, wherein nine mesa diffraction bodies are laterally displaced.

In this case, the elements are displaced in the lateral direction (in the xy plane), with a slight displacement movement being undertaken in the z direction, by a distance which is slightly greater than the layer thickness of the elements in the z direction. From the perspective of supervision ( 12 Middle) are in the right column 3 Elements disappeared by a move in x-direction almost completely below the originally left neighbor. Further, in the middle column 3 Elements by a movement in the x-direction partially verschunden below the original left neighbor. In the left-hand column, 3 elements are partially obscured by a movement in the x- and y-direction below the original left-hand neighbor. In 12 below this is shown in a schematic side view along the paper plane of the middle representation.

13 shows in a schematic plan view (detail) a grid arrangement with a plurality of rectangular and linear diffraction bodies of different sizes, wherein the optically effective surfaces, which are formed by cooperation of at least one diffractive element, can be increased or decreased by the actuation of these elements. If the optically effective, contiguous area of an ensemble of such mesa diffraction elements diminishes, the adjacent cleavage areas enlarge. If the optically effective, contiguous area of an ensemble of such mesa diffraction elements increases, the adjacent cleavage areas diminish.

in the The following are basic guidelines for the manufacture of a diffractive body device according to the invention given. First It should be noted that the basis of the production usual, in The prior art known thin film manufacturing processes are where thin ones Layers by vapor deposition, spin coating, dip coating, sputtering, Galvanizing, etc. are produced, and by further lithographic Manufacturing processes then small-scale and mostly in surface micromechanical Structure to the previously applied layers are structured can, ever after how big the Structures in the photomask are. In that regard is completely on textbooks referenced, which describe the aforementioned techniques.

• I. Für eine Verwendung als Fassadenelement und zur Herstellung von Einzelmodulen quadratischer Form mit einer Kantenlänge von knapp 12,5 cm wird als Grundträgerfläche 30 eine dünne Glasscheibe als Glassubstrat mit diesen Abmessungen verwendet. Anstelle von anorganischem Glas kann auch ein anderes transparentes Material, organische Gläser (z.B. Plexiglas), transparente Kunststoffe bzw. Polymere evtl. unter Beimischung einer Abtönfarbe verwendet werden.
• II. In einem zweiten Schritt werden planare Elektroden 38A bzw. 38B sowie das zugehörige Ansteuerungsnetzwerk für die Leiterbahnen beispielsweise durch Aufdampfen von leitenden Materialien, z.B. Metallen (Aluminium, ...) oder z.B. ITO (engl. indium tin oxide), oder z.B. leitfähige Polymere (Poly[p-Phenylen], ...), ggf. durch eine galvanische Verstärkung unterstützt auf das Glassubstrat 30 aufgebracht. Dieser Schritt kann durch Aufdampfen der elektrisch leitenden Materialien, verbunden mit üblichen lithografischen Strukturierungstechniken erfolgen. Bei Leitungskreuzungen werden Leitungen wie üblich durch eine isolierende Zwischenschicht voneinander getrennt.
• IIIa). In einem dritten Schritt erfolgt das Aufbringen einer Opferschicht mit definierter Dicke, die im wesentlichen durch die Höhe der in 5 dargestellten Halteelemente 32A und 32B vorgegeben ist. Die Höhe der Opferschicht sollte wenigstens so hoch sein, dass der beabsichtigte, maximale Schwenkausschlag eines Mesa-Beugungskörpers 36 erfolgen kann, ohne dass der Mesa-Beugungskörper an die Grundplatte 30 stößt. Diese Opferschicht soll die Halteblöcke 32A und 32B bilden. An diesen Stellen muss sie nachfolgend erhalten bleiben, und an allen anderen Stellen wird die Opferschicht nachfolgend weggeätzt, um einen Freiraum auszubilden, der die spätere Mesa-Beugungskörperschwenkung ermöglicht. Um eine hohe Transparenz zu gewährleisten, etwa wenn das Gitter im Durchlicht verwendet werden soll, wird die Opferschicht vorzugsweise bis auf das Glassubstrat an diesen Stellen entfernt. Dies gelingt mit heutigen technologischen Verfahren perfekt. Es sei darauf hingewiesen, dass z.B. elektrische Leitungen aus transparentem ITO, Halteblöcke aus Plexiglas und Grundplatte aus anorganischen Gläsern hergestellte werden können. Als Materialien der Opferschicht kommen in erster Linie solche Materialien in Frage, die sich gegenüber allen anderen verwendeten Materialien selektiv ätzen lassen und die gegenüber Witterung, Feuchtigkeit und Temperaturunterschieden relativ unempfindlich sind, eine ausreichende mechanische Festigkeit aufweisen und kein nennenswertes plastisches Fließen aufweisen (ohne Hysterese). Beispielsweise kommen Materialien, etwa Polymethylmethacrylat, Siliziumdioxid oder ein UV-Fotolack in Frage, solange er sich mit einer definierten Dicke auftragen lässt. Beispielhaft sei ferner die Materialklasse der thermotropen Hauptketten-Flüssigkristalline-Polymere genannt. Diese Materialklasse lässt sich mit bestimmten organischen Lösungsmitteln einerseits gut lösen (Opferschichteigenschaft) und erfüllt auf der anderen Seite auch relativ hohe, mechanische Stabilitätskriterien, falls diese Materialien gleichzeitig als Teil der Halteblöcke zum Einsatz kommen.
• III.b). Alternativ zu IIIa) wird eine Variante angegeben, welche Halteblöcke mit erhöhter Festigkeit liefert. Im wesentlichen wird dabei der Prozessschritt IIIa) wie folgt ersetzt. Dazu wird ein tiefenlithographiefähiger Photolack (z.B. PMMA) aufgebracht, in welchem die Formen aller Halteblöcke durch Belichten und Entwickeln als Negativ definiert werden. Durch selektives Auffüllen beispielsweise durch galvanische Prozesse, werden stabile Halteblöcke definiert. Nachfolgend werden die weiter unten folgenden Prozessschritte IV, V, und VI angewandt, wobei der verbleibende Photolack (Opferschicht) nasschemisch entfernt wird. Ferner ist dabei der Prozessschritt II derart zu modifizieren, dass gleichzeitig zu den Elektroden auf der Grundplatte geeignete leitfähige Grundflächenschichten der Halteblöcke definiert werden, welche jeweils gerade die Form der Verbindungsfläche Halteblock/Grundplatte aufweisen. Dabei muss auf eine elektrische Isolation zwischen oberen und unteren Elektroden geachtet werden. Vorteilhaft anwendbar ist auch der Einsatz der LIGA-Technik mit kostengünstigen Abformschritten.
• IV. In einem weiteren Herstellungsschritt wird eine Schicht aufgebracht, die die Mesa-Beugungskörper oder gemäß einer besonderen Ausführungsvariante die optischen Filter, und die Brückenelemente 34A und B mit ihren Halteschichten auf den Halteelementen 32A und B bildet. Als Material kommt beispielsweise eine Metallschicht beispielsweise aus Aluminium oder eine dielektrische Mehrfachschicht mit einer äußeren elektrisch leitfähigen aber transparenten Schicht (z.B. ITO) oder eine Polymerschicht mit stark reflektierenden und leitfähigen Eigenschaften in Frage. In einem kostengünstigen Ausführungsbeispiel erstreckt sich die leitende Schicht über die Mesa-Beugungskörper, die Ver bindungsbrücken und über die Halteschichten, und dient gleichzeitig als Elektrode (vor allem auf den Mesa-Beugungskörperflächen), als Leiterbahn (vor allem auf den Verbindungsbrücken) und als Halteschichten auf den Halteelementen.
• V. In einem weiteren Schritt werden vorzugsweise am Rand eines jeden Einzelmoduls umlaufende Abstandhalter aufgebracht, beispielsweise aus dem selben Material wie die vorgenannte Opferschicht, um in einem weiteren (späteren) Schritt das Anbringen einer äußeren Schutzschicht bewirken zu können, die sich flächig über die gesamte Modulfläche erstreckt, um eine hermetische Versiegelung gegen Staub und Feuchtigkeit sowie einen Spannungsschutz zu realisieren. Diese Schutzschicht kann beispielsweise auf die vorgenannten Abstandhalter, die besonders bevorzugt als umlaufende Randbegrenzung vorliegt, durch Kleben aufgebracht werden.
• VI. In einem nächsten Schritt wird die vertikale Strukturierung vorgenommen, indem ein Ätzvorgang senkrecht zur Grundplatte 30 hin vorgenommen wird. Anschließend werden selektiv die oben beschriebenen Teile der Opferschicht entfernt, wobei die Verbindungsbrücken und Mesa-Beugungskörper entstehen.
• VII. In einem weiteren Schritt werden die Anschlussstecker für den elektrischen Anschluss der Einzelmodule untereinander, siehe zurück zu 2, für die elektrischen Kontakte 24 und die mechanischen Verbindungen 22 aufgebracht und fest mit dem Modulrahmen bzw. leitend für den elektrischen Kontakt mit dem Ansteuerungsnetzwerk verbunden.

Manufacturing method based on surface micromechanics:
In the following, the most important manufacturing characteristics are exemplary for the in 5 embodiment shown explains as follows:

• I. For use as a facade element and for the production of single modules square shape with an edge length of almost 12.5 cm is used as a basic support surface 30 a thin glass plate used as a glass substrate with these dimensions. Instead of inorganic glass, it is also possible to use another transparent material, organic glasses (eg Plexiglas), transparent plastics or polymers possibly with the addition of a tinting ink.
• II. In a second step, planar electrodes 38A respectively. 38B and the associated drive network for the printed conductors, for example by vapor deposition of conductive materials, eg metals (aluminum,...) or eg ITO (indium tin oxide), or eg conductive polymers (poly [p-phenylene],. , possibly supported by a galvanic reinforcement on the glass substrate 30 applied. This step may be accomplished by vapor deposition of the electrically conductive materials, coupled with conventional lithographic patterning techniques. In line crossings, as usual, lines are separated by an insulating interlayer.
• IIIa). In a third step, the application of a sacrificial layer with a defined thickness, which essentially by the height of in 5 shown holding elements 32A and 32B is predetermined. The height of the sacrificial layer should be at least as high as the intended maximum swing deflection of a mesa diffraction body 36 can be done without the mesa diffraction body to the base plate 30 encounters. This sacrificial layer should be the holding blocks 32A and 32B form. At these points, it must subsequently be preserved, and in all other places, the sacrificial layer is subsequently etched away to form a free space which allows the subsequent mesa diffraction body pivoting. In order to ensure a high level of transparency, for example when the grid is to be used in transmitted light, the sacrificial layer is preferably removed up to the glass substrate at these locations. This succeeds perfectly with today's technological processes. It should be noted that, for example, electric lines made of transparent ITO, holding blocks of Plexiglas and base plate can be made of inorganic glasses. As materials of the sacrificial layer are primarily those materials in question, which can be etched selectively against all other materials used and are relatively insensitive to weather, humidity and temperature differences, have sufficient mechanical strength and have no appreciable plastic flow (without hysteresis) , For example, materials, such as polymethyl methacrylate, silica or a UV photoresist in question, as long as it can be applied with a defined thickness. As an example, the material class of the thermotropic main chain liquid crystalline polymers may be mentioned. On the one hand, this material class can be well-solved with certain organic solvents (sacrificial layer property) and, on the other hand, also meets relatively high mechanical stability criteria if these materials are also used as part of the holding blocks.
• IIIb). Alternative to IIIa), a variant is specified, which provides holding blocks with increased strength. Essentially, the process step IIIa) is replaced as follows. For this purpose, a deep lithography-capable photoresist (eg PMMA) is applied in which the shapes of all holding blocks are defined as negative by exposure and development. By selective filling, for example by galvanic processes, stable holding blocks are defined. Subsequently, the process steps IV, V, and VI below are applied, whereby the remaining photoresist (sacrificial layer) is removed wet-chemically. Fer In this case, the process step II is to be modified in such a way that suitable conductive surface layers of the holding blocks are defined simultaneously with the electrodes on the base plate, which in each case have the shape of the connecting surface holding block / base plate. Care must be taken to ensure electrical insulation between the upper and lower electrodes. Advantageously, the use of the LIGA technique with cost-effective molding steps is also applicable.
• IV. In a further production step, a layer is applied, the mesa diffraction bodies or according to a particular embodiment, the optical filters, and the bridge elements 34A and B with their holding layers on the holding elements 32A and B forms. As a material, for example, a metal layer such as aluminum or a dielectric multilayer with an outer electrically conductive but transparent layer (eg ITO) or a polymer layer with highly reflective and conductive properties in question. In a cost effective embodiment, the conductive layer extends over the mesa diffraction bodies, the connection bridges Ver and the holding layers, and also serves as an electrode (especially on the mesa diffraction body surfaces), as a conductor (especially on the connecting bridges) and as holding layers on the holding elements.
• V. In a further step, circumferential spacers are preferably applied to the edge of each individual module, for example of the same material as the aforementioned sacrificial layer, in order to be able to attach an outer protective layer in a further (later) step, which extends over the entire surface Module surface extends to provide a hermetic seal against dust and moisture and a voltage protection. This protective layer can be applied by gluing, for example, to the abovementioned spacers, which are particularly preferably in the form of peripheral boundary.
• VI. In a next step, the vertical structuring is done by etching perpendicular to the base plate 30 is made. Subsequently, the above-described parts of the sacrificial layer are selectively removed, resulting in the connection bridges and mesa diffraction bodies.
• VII. In a further step, the connection plugs for the electrical connection of the individual modules with each other, see back to 2 , for the electrical contacts 24 and the mechanical connections 22 applied and firmly connected to the module frame or conductive for electrical contact with the control network.

Similarly, the above in the description of 1 mentioned communication sensor 16 contacted with the designated location on the drive network and the above-mentioned connection contact for the DC power supply line 20 with a suitably provided connector 21 preferably on only one module provided, for example, the single module 12 which will later be assigned to one of the corners of the window area.

optional may be later Using the thus manufactured module still a hermetic sealing paint over the entire edge area of the module are brought, so that the module interior maintains a long term stable, weather resistant condition.

Then the modules thus produced are put together as shown in FIG 2 is sketched until a panel is formed with the desired size. For example, with a single module size of 12.5 cm × 12.5 cm, a grid of 8 × 8 individual modules can be put together in order to obtain a coherent panel with a surface area of 1 m². The individual modules 12 have for this purpose also advantageously pluggable snap-in connections 22A and B at the remaining edges, which in 2 not shown. The latching connections in the transverse direction may also be of another type - for example an L-shaped detent - compared to the type of the longitudinal direction as in FIG 2 shown to simplify the mating.

In an optional way, this entire panel can now still on another carrier 15 be applied, for which, for example, another glass pane in question. This would be particularly recommended if increased mechanical stability of the entire panel should be required.

alternative can the connection bridges, mesa diffraction bodies and retaining blocks originally flat Elements (see, e.g., M.H. Kiang, et al., IEEE Phot. Technol. Lett. 8, 1707 (1996).

The mesa diffractive body assembly of the present invention can be made in many different ways, as will be apparent to those skilled in the art of thin film fabrication and microstructuring. Characteristic of the manufacturing method according to the invention is therefore only the use of such materials, which allow a reasonable price / performance ratio for a large-scale use in the window or facade area, and the adaptation of the lithographic process to the relatively small Abmessun conditions of the mesa diffraction bodies.

Furthermore, it is advantageous to preferably design the overall system according to the invention so that it can be operated in a low-voltage range of less than about 60 volts. This requirement is in the shape of the individual body, ie for holding element 32 , Bridge element 34 and single element 36 with regard to the leverage forces to be designed so that the required actuation voltages are not too high when implemented by electrostatic attraction forces.

A low outside temperature Variation of mesa diffraction body curvatures This causes periodic color shifts over longer periods.

The Color is in the case of amplitude gratings through the dimensions of all elements and the duty cycle between cleavage surfaces and absorbent or scattering areas. color variations of the diffraction pattern then result by varying the duty cycle by Variation of the angles of incidence of diffraction surfaces of the mesa diffraction bodies, or by lateral displacement of the diffraction bodies in certain groups, relative to other groups.

The following Angular ranges are said to be typical of certain uses as follows: For advertising space, where only one rotation axis is required, an effect can already at a swivel angle change of about 2 degrees, in "art on building", i.e. an aesthetic one Color design for building facades can already be seen with an angle of one degree a visible success achieved, with more intense effects only at larger angles occur. With lateral displacement, the effect depends on the respective one Arrangement from, with the duty cycle is changed.

Of the relevant One skilled in the art of the various uses outlined above for the Mesa diffraction body arrays according to the invention will appreciate that an overall system according to the invention is advantageous can be operated with other sensors, which then for each Use is specifically selected. For example, in all uses related to solar radiation Advantageously, a sun position sensor and optionally an additional Another sensor system that uses the cloud distribution and / or the brightness distribution in the sensory detected half space, or captured directly in the sky.

Even though the present invention based on preferred embodiments As described above, it is not limited thereto on diverse Modifiable way.

Thus, the device according to the invention, depending on the choice of the design and the type of material of the base support surface 30 rather flexible than "diffraction foil", or rather stronger, possibly stronger and thus plate-like executed.

For example can the sizing of the area the individual modules are adapted to manufacturing plants that already exist and previously for the manufacture of integrated circuits (IC) components, hard drives in the computer area, etc, used were.

Further can also be the single body associated electrode formed integrally therewith, when this made of electrically conductive Material exists.

For example, the surfaces facing the light source of the individual body 31 also be mirrored. Then, in addition to the diffraction of the light, at least part of the incident light is reflected again, which causes a special, rarely seen optical effect.

Finally, the Features of the dependent claims essentially free with each other and not by the present in the claims Sequence can be combined with each other, provided they are independent of each other are.

It should be noted that grids can be divided into two classes: reflection gratings and transmission gratings. In both cases, it is further subdivided depending on whether phase differences or amplitude differences are involved. Thus, there are phase transmission gratings, phase reflection gratings, amplitude transmission gratings and amplitude reflection gratings. This is in 14 shown. By way of example and in order to arouse increased clarity of the representation of the actual invention, the text in most cases was based on the amplitude reflection grating. However, it will not be difficult for a person skilled in the art to correspondingly transfer the actual inventive situation to the other types of lattice mentioned.

In this context, the word "reflection" is not necessarily meant for specular elements, indicating that the diffraction pattern is observed on the same side of the grating on which the light is incident (cf. 14 ). The elements must only have scattering character. In transmission grids, the diffraction pattern is observed on the other side of the grating from which the light is incident ( 14 ).

Amplitude transmission gratings have opaque elements 97 and translucent elements 96 on. Amplitude reflection gratings have light-scattering (in special cases reflective) elements 94 and translucent (or light absorbing) elements 95 on. In one embodiment, these may be mesa (ribs, lands) and mesa spaces (clefts, furrows). Phase transmission gratings have at least two different light-transmissive elements, which differ in that a phase shift of the light arises between adjacent elements. In one embodiment, these may be glass mesa 92 and fluid mesa spaces 93 be. Phase reflection gratings have at least two different light-scattering or light-reflecting elements, which differ in that a phase shift of the light arises between adjacent elements. In one embodiment, the mesa 99 and the soils of the mesas 98 made of surface-mirrored glass. The phase difference results solely from the height difference between mesas and mesa, the wavelength, the angles of incidence and reflection, and the refractive index of the fluid in the mesas. In 14 For reasons of clarity, the actuability of the mesa elements and the mesa gaps is not shown, and only a massive lattice structure is shown.

Further Applications can realized for building spaces when a controllable transmission grating is used in the windows: for example customized Room color variations on the room walls and ceilings, projection displays for projections on walls and Ceilings, projections of art objects on space surfaces or inventory, projections for example, more famous painting on wall surfaces, and similar applications.

If the base support surface should not be flat, but should have an arbitrarily curved shape, for example in order to adapt it to the individual shape of car body parts, it may be expedient to use the inventive diffraction device 12 to produce on a thickness-adapted film as a basic carrier 30 to ensure the required flexibility. Individually curved modules can then be incorporated at a suitable location in the manufacturing process in the bodywork processing, especially during painting.

Claims (16)

System for designing large areas of buildings or mobile systems by means of large-area diffraction patterns, including one or more panels attached to the large areas ( 15 ) with a diffraction device containing a plurality of with a common base support surface ( 30 ) connected individual bodies ( 31 ), wherein the individual bodies are arranged and spaced from one another in such a way that they act as diffraction centers for the light beams, and wherein the individual bodies are structural elements from a thin-film production process, characterized in that a single element ( 36 ) as part of a single body ( 31 ) relative to the base support surface ( 30 ) is movably supported for an actuation mechanism acting in concert on a single element or on groups of individual elements in order to vary the effective lattice spacing between adjacent individual bodies or individual elements, and a control device ( 18 ) for controlling the effective lattice spacing between adjacent individual bodies ( 31 ) or individual elements ( 36 ) of the panel ( 15 ), and means for transmitting control signals to the panel ( 15 ) is provided. System according to the preceding claim, wherein the Actuation mechanism based on electrostatic forces. A system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the actuation mechanism contains a predetermined number of Kammaktuatoren. System according to claim 1 to 3, wherein an actuation mechanism for the lateral displacement of individual bodies ( 31 ) or individual elements ( 36 ) or, groups thereof ( 31 . 36 ) is provided in order to determine the effective lattice spacing between adjacent individual bodies ( 31 ) or individual elements ( 36 ) to vary in a first direction. System according to the preceding claim, wherein an actuation mechanism for the lateral displacement of individual bodies ( 31 ) or individual elements ( 36 ) or groups thereof ( 31 . 36 ) is provided in order to determine the effective lattice spacing between adjacent individual bodies ( 31 ) or individual elements ( 36 ) additionally in a second direction. System according to the preceding claim, wherein the second direction is oriented perpendicular to the first direction. System according to claim 3, wherein the individual elements ( 36 ) are formed flat and on to the base support surface ( 30 ) or a comb actuator connected holding elements ( 32 ), wherein the storage movement of the individual elements ( 36 ) by an electrostatic actuation mechanism. System according to one of the preceding claims a) the material for the basic support surface ( 30 ) is selected from the group: organic or inorganic glasses, plastics, metals, and b1) the material for the individual bodies ( 31 ) possesses selective sacrificial layer properties in an etching process, in accordance with the material of the base support surface, or b2) the material for the individual bodies ( 31 ) is chosen to allow selective growth. System according to the preceding claim, wherein the Plastic is a polymer. System according to claim 8, alternative b2), wherein the Growth by applying electroplating in deep lithographic form Polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) is done. System according to claim 1, wherein the diffraction device comprises connecting elements ( 22 . 24 ) with which it is compatible with other devices ( 12 ) of the same kind can be connected at the edge. System according to the preceding claim, wherein the diffraction device comprises plug-in connection elements ( 22 . 24 ), wherein the connecting elements ( 22 . 24 ) in addition to the mechanical connection and an electrical connector between devices ( 12 ) of the same kind. System according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the individual bodies ( 31 ) or the individual elements ( 36 ) are arranged in a regular matrix form of parallel rows and parallel columns. Use of a system according to claims 1 to 13 for the design of building facades including their windows or walls. Use of a system according to claims 1 to 13 for the design of body parts of mobile systems, including theirs Windows. Use of a system according to claims 1 to 13 as a decorative object to achieve color effects.