Controlling the spatial distribution: A Synthesis of 3D Deterministic Disordered Nanostructure Design, Selection, and Optimization based on their Star Discrepancy

Title:

Controlling the spatial distribution: A Synthesis of 3D Deterministic Disordered Nanostructure Design, Selection, and Optimization based on their Star Discrepancy

Tech ID:

2023-013

Status: 

Active 

Category:

Nanotechnology and Photonics

Executive Statement:

An innovative method for designing and optimizing 3D disordered nanostructures to enhance light management in various photon-related applications.

Description:

This technology enables the precise control of spatial distribution in 3D nanostructures by synthesizing deterministic disordered designs through binary data programming, allowing optimization of surface morphology and arrangement in the x-y plane with randomized heights in the z-direction. This approach facilitates improved light management strategies critical to applications such as photocatalysis, photovoltaics, and optoelectronic devices.

Key Advantages:

• Fast and cost-effective fabrication of antireflection coatings to improve solar cell efficiency, especially at large incident angles.
• Ability to generate diverse 2D nanostructure patterns through binary matrix design of surface morphology and arrangement.
• Enhanced optimization capabilities bridging physical appearance and mathematical modeling for easier nanostructure design.
• Supports scalable manufacturing for commercial applications, backed by Air Force research funding.

Problems Solved:

• Improves light absorption and reduces reflection in solar cells and optical devices.
• Overcomes limitations in control and optimization of nanostructure spatial distribution.
• Enables reproducible and efficient design of complex nanostructured surfaces.
• Reduces cost and time associated with fabricating advanced nanostructured coatings.

Marketing Opportunity:

• Photocatalysis for chemical and environmental processes.
• Photovoltaic systems including thin film solar cells.
• Optoelectronic devices such as LEDs.
• Commercial nanomanufacturing for mass production of nanoscale materials and devices.

Inventors: 

• Hui Zhao
• Shengjie Zhai 
• Yihong Zhao

Intellectual Property: 

• U.S. Provisional Patent 63/567,333, filed 3/19/2024
• U.S Utility Patent 18/803,360, issued 12/9/2025
• U.S Continuation Patent 19/410,043, filed 12/5/2025