A triple-mode mid-IR modulator for all-surface radiative heat management

Adaptive radiative heat management can switch between heating and cooling based on the cover material's mid-IR property. However, such modulation is dependent on the underlying object's emissivity, which limits the applicability of the modulation device. For instance, to achieve the best cooling performance, the human body requires a transmissive cover, and metallic motor vehicles require an emissive one. In this talk, I will introduce a mechanical switchable radiative heat modulator that can change among three different modes - transmission, reflection, and emission - to adapt for the underlying object property. This modulation principle can improve the design flexibility of future adaptive radiative heat management.