WO2016081787A2

WO2016081787A2 - Controlled color and opacity-changing coating system

Info

Publication number: WO2016081787A2
Application number: PCT/US2015/061709
Authority: WO
Inventors: Troy G. Fohrman; Thomas P. COOHILL; Donald D. CARSON; C. Bijan WHELTON; Howard M. BUSCH
Original assignee: Biltmore Technologies, Inc.
Priority date: 2014-11-19
Filing date: 2015-11-19
Publication date: 2016-05-26
Also published as: WO2016081787A3; WO2016081787A8

Abstract

Coating systems and applications of coating systems are provided. A coating system includes an optically active element, wherein one or more optical properties of the element change in response to a controlled input of at least one of electric field, current, or electromagnetic radiation. Methods for preparing a coating system on a surface and methods for activating and controlling one or more optical properties of the coating system are provided.

Description

CONTROLLED COLOR AND OPACITY-CHANGING COATING SYSTEM

BACKGROUND

Field

[0001] The disclosure relates to coating systems and applications of coating systems.

Background

[0002] Long before Arnold Schwarzenegger visited Total Recall and watched the receptionist use a magic wand to carefully select colors on her already-painted fingernails, consumers world-wide sought ability to paint surfaces one time and then to control the color of the paint on-demand.

[0003] The repeatable and predictable changes to colors provided by controlled photochromic activity are highly desirable as evidenced by Transition Lenses® by Corning Glass, and multiple other nail polish brands that temporarily change color in the presence of bright sunlight. These nail polish brands however cannot change color to a randomly selected color on demand.

[0004] Previous attempts were made to produce paints which will change based on specific input(s) controlled by the end users. For example, WO 2003/007675A2 discusses paintable compositions that will change color in response to temperature variations, such as hot or cold water, and that also will change color to a third, different color, in the presence of intense radiation. Users of this type of paint can place their hands or feet into hot or cold water and elicit a change in the color of paint. U.S. Patent No. 8,754,005 discusses paintable compositions that will change color when wetted. U.S. Patent No. 4,793,703 discusses the use of photochromic molecules in laminates for glass lenses. U.S. Patent No. 6,037,283 discusses the use of photochromic glass lenses. Users of this type of paint can place their hands or feet into the sunlight or remove their hands or feet from constant sunlight, and elicit a change in the color of paint. U.S. Patent No. 8,470,910 discusses a photochromic coating based upon the use of titanium dioxide that can be applied as paint, which requires the constant bombardment of radiation to elicit the photochromic action. BRIEF SUMMARY

[0005] Embodiments provide coating systems and applications of coating systems.

[0006] In an embodiment, a coating system includes an optically active element. The optically active element has one or more optical properties that change in response to an energy input. In one embodiment, the energy input includes at least one of electric field, current, or electromagnetic radiation input. In one embodiment, the optically active element includes one or more of the following active agents: electrochromic material, photochromic material, electroluminescent material, thermochromic material, polymer- dispersed liquid crystal (PDLC), or suspended particle device (SPD) material. In one embodiment, the one or more optical properties include color, transparency, brightness, hue, polarization, wavelength transmissivity, refractive index, or optical dispersion. In one embodiment, the input can be continuous or non-continuous.

[0007] In another embodiment, a method for preparing a coating system on a surface or an object, such as a nail is provided. The method includes applying a matrix that includes a receiver system that receives power that powers the matrix, and applying one or more active agents to the matrix, whereby one or more optical properties of the active agents change in response to an energy input. In one embodiment, the energy input includes at least one of electric field, current, or electromagnetic radiation input. In one embodiment, the one or more active agents are either mixed into the matrix or applied as a layer on top of the matrix.

[0008] In a further embodiment, a method of activating and controlling one or more optical properties of a coating system is provided. The method includes selecting the one or more optical properties of the optically active element to be changed through an interface on an electronic device and transmitting a command from the electronic device to a receiver system that triggers the energy input.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS/FIGURES

[0009] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated herein and form part of the specification, illustrate the embodiments and, together with the description, further serve to explain the principles of the disclosure and to enable a person skilled in the relevant art to make and use the disclosure. [0010] FIG. 1 is an illustration of photochromic activities of a photochromic material, according to an embodiment.

[0011] FIG. 2 is a schematic view of a coating system having an optional under-layer, according to an embodiment.

[0012] FIG. 3 is a schematic view of a coating system having an under-layer of light- absorbing material, according to an embodiment.

[0013] FIG. 4 is a schematic view of a coating system having nanorectennas, according to an embodiment.

[0014] FIG. 5 is a schematic view of a nail press-on that contains a controlled photochromic coating system, according to an embodiment.

[0015] FIG. 6 is a schematic view of a consumer-controlled emitter included in a device for generation of the source radiation that elicits a photochromic action, according to an embodiment.

[0016] FIG. 7 is a schematic view of another example of a consumer-controlled emitter that is included in a device for generation of the source radiation to elicit the photochromic action, according to an embodiment.

[0017] FIG. 8 is a schematic view of a color control GUI, according to an embodiment.

[0018] FIGs. 9-12 are schematic views of a coating system, according to an embodiment.

[0019] FIG. 13 is a flowchart of a method for preparing a coating system on a surface, according to an embodiment.

[0020] FIG. 14 is a flowchart of a method for activating and controlling one or more optical properties of the coating system, according to an embodiment.

[0021] FIG. 15 is a flowchart of a method for applying a coating system, according to an embodiment.

[0022] FIG. 16 is an exemplary cross-section view of a coating system.

[0023] FIG. 17 is a diagram of a contact circuit, according to an embodiment.

[0024] FIG. 18 is a diagram of a cutout equipped with a conductive circuit, according to an embodiment.

[0025] FIGs. 19-22, 23A-B, 24A-B, 25A-B, and 26 are diagrams of variations of a coating system, according to an embodiment.

[0026] FIGs. 27A-B are block diagrams of a layout of an electrochromic material.

[0027] FIG. 28 is a block diagram of two layers of electrochromic polymers.

[0028] FIG. 29 is a block diagram of two layers of electrochromic polymers. [0029] FIG. 30 is an exemplary computer diagram that includes components that execute a color control GUI on an electronic device, according to an embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0030] Controlled photochromic and/or electrochromic paints and methods that provide an effective formulation of ingredients (i.e., an "active agent") are provided. In one embodiment, the disclosure is directed to a novel method for changing paint color whose hue and intensity can be modulated by application of either electro-magnetic radiation (such as visible light) or direct application of electric field or current in quantities that are safe to the touch or application to a mammal. Additionally, coating systems that include the active ingredients are provided, where the color change is in the coating system can be controlled using an electronic device.

[0031] The coating systems disclosed in FIGs. 2-5 and 9-12 offer significant advantages.

For example, coating systems in FIGs. 2-5 and 9-12 have ability to formulate a stable matrix for application by way of sputtering and/or spin coating, as well as other methods, that have proven useful for developing layers of electrochromic materials on film(s) that become the enclosed capacitor, which forms the basis of the paint activation.

[0032] In a further embodiment, addition of suitable photochromic dyes included in the matrix in FIG. 1, uncovered more than 11 distinct colors and hundreds of hues that have not been previously reported for photochromic material, such as dithienylethenes (DTE), and DTE-Ox.

[0033] In a still further embodiment, to trigger or turn on the optically active elements, such as electrochromic materials and photochromic materials to change to a color or opacity, a user can select a color input on an electronic device, or by the electronic device itself. The changes in color(s) and/or opacity may or may not require sustained inputs to maintain the color change.

[0034] In another embodiment, the method allows the color to remain even after the removal of the triggering source by way of a 'burst' system, akin to a proprietary flash circuit and/or infrared photo-detector.

[0035] Furthermore, the ability to turn-off the color using a different triggering method, i.e. modifiable inputs, that are supplied by the consumer input to the electronic device, or by the electronic device itself, and via an emitter and receiver system, is an improvement not previously known in the art. And the ability to then turn-on another stable color change on demand, is also an improvement.

[0036] These features allow the user to change the reflectivity of the paint to a series of well-defined colors and intensity levels. In a non-limiting example, the coating systems allow changing the color of a nail polish to various hues. There are myriad other uses where a color changing paint is desirable. These include, but are not limited to, wall paint, display paint, dashboards, location devices, glass rooms, eye-wear, wearable devices, coatings for automobiles, appliances, etc.

[0037] This specification discloses one or more embodiments that incorporate the features of this invention. The disclosed embodiment(s) merely exemplify the invention. The scope of the invention is not limited to the disclosed embodiment(s). The invention is defined by the claims appended hereto.

[0038] The embodiment(s) described, and references in the specification to "some embodiments," "one embodiment," "an embodiment," "an example embodiment," etc., indicate that the embodiment(s) described can include a particular feature, structure, or characteristic, but every embodiment may not necessarily include the particular feature, structure, or characteristic. Moreover, such phrases are not necessarily referring to the same embodiment. Further, when a particular feature, structure, or characteristic is described in connection with an embodiment, it is understood that it is within the knowledge of one skilled in the art to effect such feature, structure, or characteristic in connection with other embodiments whether or not explicitly described.

[0039] References to spatial descriptions (e.g., "above," "below," "up," "down," "top,"

"bottom," etc.) made herein are for purposes of description and illustration only, and should be interpreted as non-limiting upon the screens, bases, substrates, methods and products of any process, which can be spatially arranged in any orientation or manner.

[0040] Throughout the specification, use of the term "about" with respect to any quantity is contemplated to include that quantity. For example, "about 10 μιη" is contemplated herein to include "10 μηι," as well as values understood in the art to be approximately 10 μιη with respect to the entity described.

Definitions

[0041] As used herein, the term "membrane" refers to a selective cellular barrier that is selectively permeable and controls the movement of substances into and out of cells. Membranes are generally comprised of proteins and lipids. Additionally, membranes include a cell potential (i.e., electrical charge). The term "membranes" is intended to encompass all cellular membranes, preferably animal, and more preferably mammalian, and most preferably human. The membrane can be, without limitation, both connective and epithelial membranes. Example connective membrane includes a synovial membrane. Examples of epithelial membranes include the skin, mucosal membranes and serous membranes. The membranes can be dry membranes or wet membranes. Examples of additional mammalian membranes, for both humans and other mammals, include mesenteric, dermal, epidermal, blood-brain barrier, intervaginal, rectal, colonic, ocular, internasal and tympanic membranes.

[0042] As used herein, the term "nail" refers to the cutaneous area of fingers or toes found on the extremities of mammals.

[0043] As used herein, the term "wall" and the term "surface" refer to the outermost part or uppermost layer of something upon which the coating system is applied.

[0044] As used herein, the term "active agent" refers to any suitable material that changes one or more of its optical properties in response to a controlled input of at least one of electric field, current, or electromagnetic radiation. Example active agent includes any molecule that has a photochromic action which can be controlled by specific inputs but does not require sustained inputs, i.e., can be turned on or off. In an embodiment, active agent also comprises one or more electrochromic molecule(s), alone or in combination with the photochromic molecule(s) that require a low voltage and amperage and/or specific photonic wavelength(s) for input, which cause the active agent to be safe and comfortable to the touch of a mammal, regardless of whether the coating system is actively receiving an input.

[0045] Additional examples of suitable active agents are provided herein, which can be used alone or in combination with each other. A combination of active agents may be provided, concurrently or serially, ordered or in any order. Additionally, an active agent may have the electrochromic molecule(s) combined as part of a film-encapsulated capacitor with a separate rectenna circuit.

[0046] As used herein, the term "an effective amount" is encompassed by a desired end result from the system, i.e., reflectivity of color or transparency/opacity of the coating.

[0047] As used herein, the term "immediate environment" refers to an area at, or substantially near, the location where the formulation is directly applied. Preferably, the immediate environment is directly at the site of application where the formulation is applied. Preferably, the immediate environment includes both the formulation and the site of application where the formulation is applied and may be in contact with the consumer or immobile object. In some embodiments, the immediate environment is within about 0- 5 mm of the site of the application.

Controlled Color and Opacity-Changing Coating Systems

[0048] FIG. 1 is an illustration 100 of photochromic activities of a photochromic material according to one embodiment. The photochromic activity, also known as photochromism, is the reversible transformation of chemical species between two forms by absorption of electromagnetic radiation. The two forms may also have different absorption spectra and different colors. In an embodiment, FIG. 1 demonstrates the photochromism of DTE-Ox material among ten different colors: mustard yellow 111, light yellow 101, pale yellow 102, coffee 103, olive green 104, mint green 105, blue 106, pink 107, purple 108, grey 109, and charcoal 110. The photochromism occurs upon applying inputs (i.e. electromagnetic radiations) of specific wavelength for an effective amount of time. In an embodiment, the effective amount of time for color transformation is a function of the thickness of the applied coating. The arrows between mustard yellow 111, light yellow 101, pale yellow 102, coffee 103, olive green 104, mint green 105, blue 106, pink 107, purple 108, grey 109, and charcoal 110 indicate application of electromagnetic radiation at a particular wavelength to colors 101-111 for an effective amount to elicit color transformation from one color to another. For example, application of electromagnetic radiation of above 400 nm wavelength to mustard yellow 111 transforms mustard yellow 100 to light yellow 101. In another example, application of electromagnetic radiation of 254nm to light yellow 101 transforms light yellow 101 to mustard yellow 1 11 in an effective amount of time. In yet another example, electromagnetic radiation of 313nm wavelength transforms both mustard yellow 111 and light yellow 101 into olive green 104.

[0049] A person skilled in the art will appreciate, that other inputs, such as, light, current, electric field, or electromagnetic radiation can also be applied to colors 101-111 in effective quantities and elicit photochromism.

[0050] FIG. 2 is a schematic view of a coating system 200 with an optional under-layer according to an embodiment. In some embodiments, coating system 200 comprises two layers. The first layer is an optically active element 201. Optically active element 201 may be configured to change one or more optical properties in response to a controlled input of at least one of light, electric field, current, or electromagnetic radiation. In some embodiments, the one or more optical properties that change in response to a controlled comprise color, transparency, brightness, hue, polarization, wavelength transmissivity, refractive index, or optical dispersion. In some embodiments, the controlled input is continuous. In some embodiments, the controlled input is non-continuous.

[0051] In some embodiments, optically active element 201 comprises one or more active agents, including, but not limited to electrochromic material, photochromic material, electroluminescent material, thermochromic material, polymer-dispersed liquid crystal (PDLC), or suspended particle device (SPD) material.

[0052] In some embodiments, optically active element 201 comprises one or more photochromic materials. Example photochromic materials include, but are not limited to, the following classes of molecules: dithienylethenes (DTE), diarylethenes, triarylmethanes, stilbenes, azastilbenes, nitrones, fulgides, spiropyrans, naphthopyrans, spiro-oxazines, quinones, inorganic photochromies (e.g., silver halides and zince halides), photochromic coordination compounds (e.g., ruthenium sulfoxide complexes and sodium nitroprusside) and others. In some embodiments, the photochromic material can be DTE- Ox.

[0053] In some embodiments, the coating system 200 includes a radiation source, (or another current or electric field source), configured to provide the controlled input of electromagnetic radiation. In some embodiments, the radiation source is configured to adjust the electromagnetic radiation power and duration.

[0054] Example radiation source may be included, mounted, or wirelessly coupled to electronic device 202. Example electronic device may be a portable device that is controlled by a user, and include, in non-limiting embodiments, a smart phone, tablet, portable game and entertainment device, remote control, laptop, desktop, personal computer, television set, e-reader, MP3 player, personal digital assistant, video camera, point of sale device, and wearable device. The example electronic devices may include a power source and are operable to download and execute applications that provide a user with a control interface that controls a radiation source or electronic field or current source. [0055] In an embodiment, a coating system based on photochromic materials can include a variable-wavelength transmission system attached directly to electronic device 202, i.e., the wavelength controller and radiation source that operate via applications or software to provide user control over the wavelength activation sequences that changes the colors. The UV source may be coated with a soft, non-scratch reflective coating so a user of the electronic device can provide input that causes the photochromic coating to change color without damaging the coating itself.

[0056] In some embodiments, the coating system 200 also includes a layer of reflective material 203. Layer of reflective material 203 may be the first coat applied on a nail of a human or another mammal and can reflect and amplify the various wavelengths for the layer of photochromic material 201.

[0057] FIG. 3 is a schematic view of a coating system 300 having an under-layer of light- absorbing material, according to an embodiment. FIG. 3 shows a coating system 300 including an optically active element 201 and a variable-wavelength transmission system attached to electronic device 202 as described in FIG. 2, and a layer of light-absorbing material 310. Layer of light-absorbing material 310 may absorb various wavelengths and then slowly release the various wavelengths after the radiation source is removed. Alternatively, layer of light-absorbing material 310 may be a layer of electrochromic materials and can be recharged as needed or on demand. Example light-absorbing material may include DTE-Ox or other photochromic or thermochromic material.

[0058] In some embodiments, light-absorbing material 310 is included in a layer underneath the layer of photochromic materials. In some embodiments, the light- absorbing material 310 is within the same layer as the photochromic materials. The continued release of the light from light-absorbing material 310 from the under-layer (or same layer, when one coat is used) can further extend the retention of color by the photochromic materials.

[0059] FIG. 4 is a schematic view of a coating system 400 having nanorectennas, according to an embodiment. In some embodiments, a coating system comprises one or more photochromic materials, a UV emitting coating, and one or more nanorectennas. A nanorectenna is a nano-sized rectenna device that can convert electromagnetic radiation (e.g., microwaves) to DC electric power. The nanorectennas may be transparent and can be dispersed there-dimensionally within the coating system, thus increasing the surface area of the receivers. [0060] FIG. 5 is a schematic view of a nail press-on 500 having controlled photochromic coating system 505, according to an embodiment. In some embodiments, controlled photochromic coating system 500 comprises several layers, Example layers may be a micro or nanorectennas layer 510, a ultraviolet (UV) emitting coating layer 520, and UV- responsive and controlled photochromic materials layer 530. In a further embodiment, the layers 510-530 may be included in any order, or in the order discussed above,

[0061] In some embodiments, controlled photochromic coating system 500 may be applied to a finger or toe nail 540 as a nail press-on or sticker.

[0062] FIG. 6 is a schematic view 600 of example an emitter on an electronic device that generates source input, according to an embodiment. Emitter 610 may be a LED, laser, thermal source, arc source, fluorescent source, to name a few examples. Emitter 610 may generate radiation that is used by an input source to elicit the photochromic action. In a further embodiment, emitter 610 may be attached, included or wirelessly coupled to an electronic device 620, and electronic device 620 may include, execute, or communicate with one or more applications that control emitter 610 on demand or on request by a user. In an embodiment, FIG. 6 also provides a non-limiting configuration of a side view 630, a front view 640, and a back view 650 of an emitter positioned on electronic device 620. As shown in front view 640, emitter 610 generates source inputs based on the user provided selection on to a color control graphical user interface (GUI) 660 displayed on electronic device 620. Color control GUI 660 receives selection from a user as input and provides the selection to an application that executes on electronic device and controls emitter 610 and causes emitter 610 to issue inputs, such as signals or radiation to one of coating systems described in FIGs. 2-5. According to the selection, emitter 610 issue inputs.

[0063] A person skilled in the art will appreciate that the positioning of emitter 610 described above is exemplary, and other positioning of emitter 610, internal or external to electronic device 620 may be used.

[0064] FIG. 7 is a schematic view of another example emitter 700 that generates source radiation, according to an embodiment. In some embodiments, emitter 700 comprises a plurality of LED light sources 702. LED light sources 702 include, but not limited to, a white LED, a black LED, a blue LED, a red LED, and a yellow LED, and may each be a single LED or combination of LEDs. In some embodiments, emitter 700 has a reflective concave surface 710. The reflective concave surface 710 facilitates focusing the light input from the LED light sources.

[0065] FIG. 8 is a schematic view of a color control GUI 800, according to an embodiment. As discussed above, color control GUI 800 may communicate with one or more applications executing or communicating with electronic device 802. Example display views for color control GUI 800 are shown inU.S. Design Patent Application No. 29/489389, which is incorporated herein by reference. In some embodiments, color control GUI 800 comprises a color palette 810 with a plurality of colors that occur in a color spectrum. Color control GUI 800 allows a user to select from the plurality of colors, and also save a set of colors as favorite color choices 820. In an embodiment, color palette 810 may be a circular palette with different areas of the palette corresponding to different colors or color blends.

[0066] In a further embodiment, the set of colors designated as favorite color choices 820 may be on the outside of color palette 810 and be represented as smaller circles around color palette 810, with each circle having a selected favorite color. In a further embodiment, favorite color choices 820 may be positioned around color palette 810, such that each favorite color is located outside of the section of color palette 810 that has an approximate same color.

[0067] In a further embodiment, favorite color choices 820 may be set with default color choices. Default color choices may be pre-selected using the color control GUI 800 or pre-loaded into color control GUI 800. In yet a further embodiment, the default color choices may be based on actual colors that were pulled from different nail polish brands because of the sale volume and/or popularity of the color.

[0068] In some embodiments, color control GUI 800 comprises a brightness control slide bar 830. Brightness control slide bar 830 controls brightness of one of coating systems described in FIGs. 2-5, 9-12, 16, 19-22, 23A-B, 24A-B, 25A-B, and 26.

[0069] In another embodiment, color control GUI 800 comprises a transparency control slide bar 840. Transparency control slide bar 840 controls transparence of one of coating systems described in FIGs. 2-5, 9-12, 16, 19-22, 23A-B, 24A-B, 25A-B, and 26. In a non-limiting example, a user can control one or more of the optical properties through an on/off button, an up/down arrow, a left/right arrow, or a slider bar. In some embodiments, color control GUI 800 further comprises a plurality of function buttons selected from a settings menu, and can include a settings button, random button, power button, and permanent button.

[0070] FIG. 9 is a schematic view of a coating system 900, according to an embodiment.

Coating system 900 can be located on a nail surface. In some embodiments, coating system 900 comprises an optically active element 910. Additionally, coating system 900 may also comprise a nail surface coat 950 and a top coat 960.

[0071] In some embodiments, optically active element 910 comprises two electrically conductive layers 920, 930 separated by one or more layers of electrochromic materials

940.

[0072] In some embodiments, the two electrically conductive layers 920, 930 may comprise one or more of the following materials: indium tin oxide (ITO), tin oxide, zinc oxide, conductive polymers, graphene, carbon nanotubes, metallic grids, copper nanowires, silver nanowires, or combinations thereof.

[0073] Example electrochromic materials 940 include, but not limited to, those described in U.S. Patent Nos. 6,791,738, 6,950,296, 7,011,771, 7,018944, 7,157,068, 7,333,257, 7,649,076, 7,751,171, 7,752,997, 7,799,932, 7,935,517, 8,284,473, 8,383,761, 8,394,917, 8,399,603, 8,450,449, 8,500,678, and 9,012,600, which are incorporated herein by reference. Also, in some embodiments, the electrochromic materials comprises poly(3,4- ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT), poly(3 ,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) :polystyrene sulfonate (PEDOT-PSS), poly(3,4-propylenedioxythiophene) (PProDOT), viologens, polyaniline, any derivatives or combinations thereof.

[0074] In some embodiments, the one or more layers of electrochromic materials 940 are configured to change one or more optical properties in response to radiation, electric field, current, or electromagnetic inputs. In some embodiments, the one or more layers of electrochromic materials 940 change their optical properties in response to low voltage and amperage applied to electrochromic materials 940, as shown in coating system 900, such that one of electrically conductive layers 920, 930 becomes positive, while the other becomes negative. In an embodiment, the low voltage and amperage inputs, are in for example, the range of 0.20 - 1.24 volts and 0.02 amps. This example range provides a comfortable and safe system for application on a surface that a mammal would touch, or upon a portion of a mammalian body, including appendages and/or nails.

[0075] In an embodiment, a nail surface coat 950 includes a transparent, electrically non- conductive coating to pretreat the nail surface to facilitate the application of the optically active element 910. In an embodiment, a top coat 960 includes a final coating of transparent, electrically non-conductive nail polish or gel for the final look of the coating system.

[0076] FIG. 10 is a schematic view 1000 of an electronic device changing nail color using a coating system, according to an embodiment. Schematic view 1000 includes coating system 1001. Coating system 1001 comprises an optically active element 1002 based on electrochromic materials and a wireless rectenna circuit 1003. In a non- limiting example, a three-dimensional nanorectenna can be used instead of or in addition to the wireless rectenna circuit 1003. The wireless rectenna circuit 1003 and the three- dimensional nanorectenna are configured to convert microwave power into electric power. In a further embodiment, wireless rectenna circuit 1003 may be a printed rectenna circuit and applied to the nails as a press-on or a sticker.

[0077] In an embodiment, coating system 1001 may change color in response to receiving a signal issued by a wirelessly controlled emitter 1004 controlled by electronic device 1005. In an embodiment, emitter 1004 and electronic device 1006 may communication over network 1006. Network 1006 may be a local area network, wide area network, a wireless network, personal area network (such as BlueTooth^®) or a radio network, to name a few non-limiting examples. In some embodiments, wirelessly controlled emitter 1004 may issue microwaves to coating system 1001 in response to receiving a signal over network 1006 issued by electronic device 1005.

[0078] In an embodiment, a user can input the command for color change into electronic device 1005 (e.g., a smartphone, a tablet, or personal computer) using a color control GUI , described above. In other embodiments, emitter 1004 and coating system 1001 can also communicate using network 1006. The application executing on electronic device 1005 receives user input for a color change from the color control GUI and converts the input into an appropriate Bluetooth^® standard command to the wireless controlled emitter 1004. The Bluetooth^® standard command may include a particular wavelength that corresponds to a color change, as described in FIG. 1.

[0079] In an embodiment, wireless controlled emitter 1004 increases or decreases the power output upon command from electronic device 1005 and/or according to color change selection received from a user via color control GUI, such as color control GUI 800. [0080] In some embodiments, wireless controlled emitter 1004 can be embedded into clothing or accessories of a user, including but not limited to, fashionable jewelry, bracelets, rings, watch, anklets, pens, pencils, pendants, headbands, wallets, clothing, etc.

[0081] In an embodiment, wireless controlled emitter 1004 can be powered by a rechargeable Lithium-ion battery system or another battery. In yet another embodiment, wireless controlled emitter 1004 may be plugged into an electrical outlet or into a computer or another electronic device that recharges the battery.

[0082] In an embodiment, wireless rectenna circuit 1003 may be applied to a nail press- on and/or a sticker that include coating system 1001. In a further embodiment, wireless rectenna circuit 1003 may receive wireless transmission of microwaves from wireless controlled emitter 1004 and convert the microwaves into DC power. An exemplary DC power may be in the range of 0.20 - 1.24 volts and/or 0.02 amperes.

[0083] In a further embodiment, wireless controlled emitter 1005 provides the microwaves via directions received from a Bluetooth^® signal transmitted from user device 1005.

[0084] FIG. 11 is a schematic view of a coating system 1100, according to an embodiment. Coating system 1100 includes a sticker 1102 (or also a nail press-on, in a different embodiment). In an embodiment, sticker 1102 has a shape that is similar to a nail. In a further embodiment, a user, a third party or an automated machine, applies sticker 1102 using a nail applicator to a finger or toe nail 1104.

[0085] In an embodiment, a nail gel may be applied over sticker 1102 to hold the sticker in place on nail 1104. In an embodiment, the gel may be approximately 200u thick. In a further embodiment, the gel may also be part of a press-on solution for placing and holding sticker 1102 on nail 1104 for a prolonged period of time or until a user decides to remove sticker 1102. In a further embodiment, the nail gel may comprise a clear, electrically non-conductive nail polish or gel material, such as Sally Hansen's Miracle Gel 100, fluoropolymers, silicates or atomically deposited transparent sealers including silicon oxycarbide, SiC:H, parylene, and benzocyclobutane (BCB) and AlOx.

[0086] In an embodiment, sticker 1102 includes multiple layers. A top layer 1106 comprises a thick, ultra-flexible polymer with an underside coated with a transparent, highly-conductive material. Example ultra-flexible polymer may include a flexible graphene or a CNN-based nanocomposite. In an embodiment, conductive wiring 1108 may be attached to top layer 1106 of sticker 1102. In a further embodiment, conductive wiring 1108 may also be coated with a graphene coating.

[0087] In a further embodiment, sticker 1102 may include a rectenna receiver layer 1110.

Rectenna receiver layer 1110 stores a rectenna receiver that receives signal to change color to a color selected on a user device and that was discussed in detail in FIG. 10. In an embodiment, receive layer may also be part of top layer 1106.

[0088] In a further embodiment, sticker 1102 may include a nanoconductor layer 1112. In an embodiment, nanoconductor layer 1112 conducts current through the sticker 1102 that causes sticker 1112 to change color on demand from a user, as discussed above.

[0089] In a further embodiment, sticker 112 may also include an insulating layer 1114. In an embodiment, insulating layer 1114 includes a polymer as an insulator and may be positioned between rectenna receiver layer 1110 and nanoconductor layer 1112.

[0090] In an embodiment, sticker 1102 may include a color layer 1116. Color layer 1116 may include four primary colors: red, blue, yellow, and black, though the implementation is not limited to this embodiment, and other colors, fewer colors, or more colors may also be included as primary colors. Color layer 1116 may change colors or color hues in response to the charge being applied to nanoconductor layer 1112.

[0091] In an embodiment, sticker 1102 may be approximately 300u thick.

[0092] FIG. 12 is a schematic view 1200 of a coating system 1210, according to an embodiment. In some embodiments, a coating system 1210 comprises one or more electrochromic materials and nanorectennas. In some embodiments, coating system 1210 further comprises a highly flexible, transparent, nanocomposite-based conductive film (CNNs) and a non-color changing polymer (NCCP).

[0093] In some embodiments, coating system 1210 may be formed by adhering each of components, such as, electrochromic materials, nanorectennas, CNNs, NCCP, etc., into oil- and water-based solvents for self-assembly upon customer self-application on finger nail 1220. Example solvents may be toluene, xylene, chloroform, acetone, water and vegetable oil. In some embodiments, a nail, such as finger nail 1220, may be pre-treated with suitable ingredients, such as evaporative solvents known to a person of ordinary skill in the art, to facilitate the self-assembly process.

[0094] In an embodiment, nanorectenna material may include, but is not limited to, copper, functionalized carbon nanotubes, graphene, any derivatives thereof, or any combination thereof. [0095] FIG. 13 is a flowchart 1300 of a method for preparing a coating system, according to an embodiment.

[0096] At step 1302, a matrix to a surface is applied. The applied matrix includes a receiver system that generates or stores power that provides power to the matrix.

[0097] At step 1304, an active agent is applied to the matrix. For example, one or more active agents, such as an electrochromic material, photochromic material, electroluminescent material, thermochromic material, polymer-dispersed liquid crystal (PDLC), or suspended particle device (SPD) material. As describe above, these agents cause a photochromic action which can be controlled by specific inputs but does not require sustained inputs to be turned on or off. In another example, the active agent may be one or more electrochromic molecule(s), alone or in combination with the photochromic molecule(s). As also described above, the one or more active agents one or more optical properties of the active agents change in response to a input, such as an electric field, current, or electromagnetic radiation input.

In some embodiments, a stable matrix is applied to the surface to be painted. The matrix may be a press-on nail, a sticker or similar capacitor that includes a receiver system for power by way of an integrated rectenna (electrochromic) as a physical circuit or as a 3- dimensional nanorectenna that is dispersed in the paint or other components in the coating system. In some embodiments, a transparent top coat may or may not be applied over the matrix.

[0098] FIG. 14 is a flowchart 1400 of a method for activating and controlling one or more optical properties of the coating system, according to an embodiment.

[0099] At step 1402, a color is selected. For example, color palette 810 on color control

GUI 800 receives selection for a particular color. As discussed above, one or more properties in the coating system can be changed to a selected color when an energy input having strength that corresponds to a selected color is applied to the coating system.

[0100] At step 1404, an energy input associated with the selected color is determined. For example, color control GUI 800 uses electronic device 620 to provide the selected color to emitter 610. In another example, color control GUI 800 associates the selected color with an energy input strength or wavelength generated by emitter 610. In this embodiment, color control GUI 800 causes electronic device 620 to provide a signal to emitter that causes emitter 610 to issue energy input that corresponds to the signal. [0101] At step 1406, an energy input is emitted. For example, emitter 610 emits energy input that corresponds to the selected color. In one embodiment emitter 610 emits the energy input using one or more LEDs of different colors. The combination of one or more LEDs of different colors generates an energy input of particular wavelength or strength.

[0102] At step 1408, a coating system changes color. For example, coating system included on a sticker or a press-on nail receives energy input of a particular strength. The electronic input of the particular strength causes the coating system to change one or more properties that in turn generates a color change as discussed in FIG. 1.

[0103] FIG. 15 is a flowchart 1500 of a method for applying a coating system, according to an embodiment.

[0104] In step 1502 a glue is applied. For example, glue is applied to a nail that holds a sticker or a press-on that includes the coating system.

[0105] In step 1504, a foundation layer is applied. A foundation layer includes the coating system, described above, and a nanorectennas that receives energy signal.

[0106] In step 1506, a non-conductive gel coat is applied. For example, a non-conductive gel coat is applied over the foundation.

[0107] In an embodiment, a coating system may be implemented on a press-on nail that is enhanced with a gem. FIG. 16 is a diagram of a gem enhanced press-on nail, according to an embodiment. In FIG. 16, one or more press-on nails 1602 may be glued onto nails or toes of a human, another mammal, or an inanimate object if desired.

[0108] In an embodiment, each nail 1602 may include a gem 1604 of different colors. In a embodiment, gem 1604 may also include or cover a contact circuit that is embedded in press-on nail 1602 and that that receives energy input from an emitter and causes press-on nail 1602 to change color, on demand.

[0109] In a further embodiment, an emitter may be included in a stylus (not shown), that is operable to receive a signal indicating a strength or wavelength of an energy signal from an electronic device, as discussed above. The stylus may be brought into proximity of press-on nail 1602, or touch press-on nail 1602 and cause press-on nail 1602 to change color to a color selected on the electronic device. In another embodiment, the stylus may contact gem 1604 of a particular press-on nail for a period of time, such as, one second. As a result of contact, the stylus may cause press-on nail 1602 to change color to a color selected using electronic device. In this embodiment, a user may use a color control GUI, such as color control GUI 800 described in FIG. 8, to set different colors to each press-on nail 1602. For example, a user may select one color using color control GUI 800, touch the stylus to gem 1604 on the first nail, then select a different color using color control GUI 800, and touch the stylus to geml604 of a second nail, and so on.

[0110] In a further embodiment, press-on nail 1602 may be applied to a nail using specialized glue which is meant to keep press-on nail 1602 attached to a hand or toe nail until a user decides to remove press-on nail 1602. The specialized glue may be applied over the nail and press-on nail 1602 may be pressed on top of the glue. Once press-on nail 1602 is applied, a top coat that includes non-conductive material may be applied over the press-on nail 1602.

[0111] In a further embodiment, gem 1604 may be attached to press-on nail 1602 after press-on nail 1602 has been glued to a finger. To prevent the contact circuit from being contaminated with a top coat, a peel-off wax paper may be placed over the contact circuit. Once the top coat is applied over press-on nail 1602, the peel-off wax paper may be removed and gem 1604 may be attached to the contact circuit and cover the contact circuit.

[0112] FIG. 17 is a diagram of a contact circuit 1700, according to an embodiment. In an embodiment, contact circuit 1700 includes a printed circuit board 1702 and a housing 1704.

[0113] In an embodiment, printed circuit board 1702 receives input from the stylus to change color, when, for example, stylus makes contact with gem 1604 or is in proximity of gem 1604. In a further embodiment, printed circuit board 1702 may be a two sided circuit board having circuit prints on both sides of the board. In a further embodiment, printed circuit board 1702 may include circuit prints that are concentric circles with a center acting as a ground.

[0114] In an embodiment, printed circuit board 1702 may be glued or otherwise attached to housing 1704. In one embodiment, housing 1704 may include a plurality of copper straps 1706. Copper strap 1706 may be approximately 0.50 mm wide and 0.005 mm thick, though an implementation is not limited to this embodiment, and may be used to glue printed circuit board 1702 to housing 1704, and pads 1708 A-D.

[0115] In an embodiment, housing 1704 may be attached to a top layer 1703 of press-on nail 1602 using one or more pads 1708 (shown as pads 1708A-D in FIG. 17). In an embodiment, nail pads 1708 may be located around the edges of a square or rectangular cut-out 1710 on top layer 1703, as shown in FIG. 17. In a further embodiment, each pad 1708 may be glued to one of copper copper straps 1706 of housing 1704 using conductive glue. Conductive glue is known to a person of ordinary skill in the art.

[0116] In a further embodiment, nail pads 1708A-D may be connected to different layers in press-on nail 1602 and conduct energy input into different layers which causes different layers to active and cause press-on nail 1602 to change colors, as discussed above. For example, three nail pads 1708A-C may be connected or glued to layers that display yellow, magenta, and cyan layers in the nail press-on 1602, as described below. Additionally, a fourth nail pad 1708D may be connected or glued to an all negative lead. In an embodiment when printed circuit board received energy input, pads 1708A-D are activated in different strengths, and together allow the blending of different colors, which in turn correspond to the color selected using electronic device which corresponds to the energy input.

[0117] In a further embodiment, foundation 1710 may be used to insert a steel rod, that is described below, that servers as a ground.

[0118] FIG. 18 is a diagram 1800 of a foundation equipped with a conductive circuit, according to an embodiment. In an embodiment, foundation 1802 may be attached to a press-on nail, such as press-on nail 1602 using glue, ultrasonic wield or other means of attachment or be included in a sticker. The composition of cutout 1802 is a component that changes color on press-on nail 1602.

[0119] In an embodiment, foundation 1802 may be shaped as press-on nail 1602 and may be manufactured in one or more sizes, depending on the size of press-on nail 1602. In one embodiment, the length of foundation 1802 may be approximately 14.36mm and the width may be approximately 12.00mm. In an embodiment, foundation 1802 may include a contact circuit 1804, discussed in FIG. 17. Contact circuit 1804 may be 3mm by 2 mm and be located on a side of foundation 1802 that is closest to a cuticle of the nail. In a further embodiment, contact circuit 1804 may be centered on the side of foundation 1802 that is closest to the cuticle of the nail, though the implementation is not limited to that embodiment.

[0120] In an embodiment, foundation 1802 may include multiple layers 1806. Below, layers 1806 are described beginning with a top layer and ending with the bottom layer, of one embodiment. In an embodiment, top layer 1808 in foundation 1802 includes a polyethylene terephthalate (PET) coat on the top side, combined with a fluoropolomer top coat. In a further embodiment the PET coat is approximately 2 microns. [0121] In an embodiment, contact circuit 1700 may be attached to layer 1808. In a further embodiment, contact circuit 1700 may be attached using copper sprayed contacts with silver balls. In an embodiment, beneath layer 1808 is layer 1810. In an embodiment, layer 1810 may comprise of a yellow electrochromic polymer (ECP) and a cyan ECP blend. In yet another embodiment, the color of the yellow-cyan ECP blend may range from any color (including yellow and cyan) resulting from mixing yellow andcyan at any ratio to transparent.

[0122] In an embodiment, beneath layer 1810 is an electrolyte layer 1812.

[0123] In an embodiment, beneath electrolyte layer 1812 is a thermoplastic polyurethane layer 1814.

[0124] In an embodiment, beneath thermoplastic polyurethane layer 1814 is a minimally color changing polymer (MCCP) layer 1816.

[0125] In an embodiment, beneath MCCP layer 1816 is layer 1818. In an embodiment, layer 1818 may be covered with a PET coating on the top and bottom sides. In a further embodiment, the PET coating may be 2 microns thick.

[0126] In an embodiment, beneath layer 1818 is layer 1820. In an embodiment, layer

1820 may comprise thermoplastic polyurethane.

[0127] In an embodiment, beneath layer 1820 is layer 1822. In an embodiment, layer

1822 may comprise a yellow ECP and a magenta ECP blend. In another embodiment, the color of the yellow-magenta ECP blend may range from any color (including yellow and magenta) resulting from mixing yellow and magenta at any ratio to transparent.

[0128] In an embodiment, the layer beneath layer 1822 is another electrolyte layer 1824.

[0129] In an embodiment, beneath electrolyte layer 1824 is another MCCP layer 1826. In an embodiment, MCCP layer 1826 is a poly(N-substituted alkylenedioxypyrrole).

Examples of MCCP include, but not limited to, MCCP described in US 2015/0138621, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0130] In an embodiment, beneath MCCP layer 1826 is layer 1828. In embodiment, layer

1828 may be covered with a PET coating on the top and bottom sides. In a further embodiment, the PET coating may be 2 microns thick.

[0131] In an embodiment, beneath layer 1828 is layer 1830. In an embodiment layer 1830 may comprise of a thermoplastic polyurethane. In a further embodiment, layer 1830 may be copper sprayed on the top and bottom surface. [0132] In an embodiment, beneath layer 1830 is layer 1832. In an embodiment, layer

1832 may comprise a red ECP and blue ECP blend.. In another embodiment, the color of the red-blue ECP blend may range from any color (including red and blue) resulting from mixing red and blue at any ratio to transparent.

[0133] In an embodiment, beneath layer 1832 is layer 1834. In an embodiment, layer

1834 may comprise an electrolyte gel.

[0134] In an embodiment, beneath layer 1834 is layer 1836. In an embodiment, layer

1836 is a bottom layer that attaches or is glued to nail press-on 1502. In a further embodiment, layer 1836 may be 2 mm in width and acts as a ground.

[0135] In an embodiment, layers 1808-1834 may include a rectangular hole under contact circuit 1700. The rectangular hole may be square or rectangular in shape and pass through layers 1808-1834. In a further embodiment, the rectangular hole may be approximately 3mm in length and 2mm in width.

[0136] In an embodiment, a copper strapping 1838 may be inserted through the rectangular hole in layers 1808-1834. In a further embodiment, copper strapping 1838 may comprise of copper and passes energy input to layers 1808-1834 and to the ground, which may be layer 1836. A person skilled in the art will appreciate that other materials aside from copper strapping may be used.

[0137] In an embodiment, contact circuit 1700 may be attached to layer 1808, and have multiple components, such as components 1840, 1842, and 1844.

[0138] In an embodiment, component 1840 may be of a rectangular shape with a hole in the middle. In a further embodiment, component 1840 may include copper sprayed contacts with silver balls (BGAs) that are lead- free solder joints that are embedded into a plastic sheet and attached to layer 1808. In a further embodiment, component 1840 may include pads 1708A-D.

[0139] In a further embodiment, component 1842 may be of rectangular shape and include copper embedded in a plastic housing, such as housing 1704, as also discussed in FIG. 17. In an embodiment, component 1842 includes a loaded printed circuit board (PCB), that may be printed circuit board 1702. The PCB cross sectional view is shown as 1846. The PCB may include wiring in three concentric circles that activate when contact circuit 1700 comes into contact with an emitter or be in proximity of an emitter, such as an emitter embedded in a stylus 1842. In an embodiment, some or all concentric circles may activate in response to a signal to change color that the emitter receives from an electronic device. In a further embodiment, the center of component 1846 may be to a ground 1847. In an embodiment, conductive ink may be poured into the concentric circles in order to transmit energy input to the PCB board which transmits energy input through layers 1808-1834. In an embodiment, component 1842 may be attached (or glued) to component 1840 as discussed in FIG. 17.

[0140] In an embodiment, stylus 1848 may include an emitter that receives a signal to change color that is selected on electronic device in a manner discussed in FIG. 8. In an embodiment, stylus 1848 may be approximately 4.7 inches (11.94 cm) in length and 0.7 inches (1.78cm) in width. In an embodiment, stylus 1848 may have a pointed tip 1850 that comes in near or with contact with contact circuit 1700. In an embodiment, tip 1850 comes into contact with component 1842 of contact circuit 1700.

[0141] In an embodiment, there may be variations to a coating system discussed above, as shown in FIGs. 19-22, 23A-B, 24A-B, 25A-B, and 26. FIG. 19 is a cross-section view of an exemplary coating system 1900, according to an embodiment. Coating system 1900 includes a fluoropolymer top coat 1902, a 2 micron thick PET 1904 coated on one side with indium-tin oxide (ITO), a magenta ECP 1906, an electrolyte 1908, a 2 micron thick polyester membrane 1910 coated with ITO on both sides, an electrochromic layer 1912 with a yellow ECP and a blue ECP, and a 2 micro thick stainless steel plate 1914, painted white on top, with a vertical post 1916. In an embodiment, polyester membrane 1910 contains drilled milli-pores of 1-10 microns thick. In an embodiment, electrochromic layer 1912 include a yellow ECP and blue ECP blend. In an embodiment, electrochromic layer 1912 includes a yellow ECP and a blue ECP in individually-controlled pixels. In an embodiment, the color of electrochromic layer 1912 may range from any color (including blue and yellow) resulting from mixing blue and yellow at any ratio to transparent. In an embodiment, vertical post 1916 can be used for attachment of counter-electrodes.

[0142] FIG. 20 is a cross-section view of an exemplary coating system 2000, according to an embodiment. Coating system 2000 includes a fluoropolymer top coat 2002, a 2 micron thick PET coated on one side with ITO 2004, a electrochromic layer 2006 with yellow, magenta, and blue ECPs, an electrolyte 2008, a MCCP layer 2010, and a 2 micro thick stainless steel plate 2012, painted white on top, with a vertical post 2014. In an embodiment, electrochromic layer 2006 include a yellow ECP, magenta ECP, and blue ECP blend. In an embodiment, electrochromic layer 2006 includes yellow ECP, magenta ECP, and blue ECP in individually-controlled pixels. In an embodiment, the color of electrochromic layer 2006 may range from any color (including magenta, blue, and yellow) resulting from mixing magenta, blue, and yellow at any ratio to transparent. In an embodiment, vertical post 2014 can be used for attachment of counter-electrodes. In an embodiment, stainless steel plate 2012 can be substituted with an ITO-PET (or other polymers) substrate with etched/patterned conductivity.

[0143] FIG. 21 is a cross-section view of an exemplary coating system 2100, according to an embodiment. Coating system 2100 includes a fluoropolymer top coat 2102, a 2 micron thick PET coated on one side with ITO 2104, a electrochromic layer 2106 with blue and magenta ECPs or yellow and magenta ECPs, an electrolyte 2108, a 2 micron thick polyester membrane 2110 coated with ITO on both sides, a MCCP layer 2112, and a 2 micro thick stainless steel plate 2114, painted white on top, with a vertical post 2116. In an embodiment, electrochromic layer 2106 include a magenta ECP and blue ECP blend. In an embodiment, electrochromic layer 2106 include a yellow ECPand magenta ECP blend. In an embodiment, electrochromic layer 2106 includes a magenta ECPand a blue ECP in individually-controlled pixels. In an embodiment, electrochromic layer 2106 includes a yellow ECP and a magenta ECP in individually-controlled pixels. In an embodiment, stainless steel plate 2114 or vertical post 2116 can be used for attachment of counter-electrodes. In an embodiment, polyester membrane 2110 contains drilled milli- pores of 1-10 microns thick.

[0144] FIG. 22 is a schematic view of an exemplary coating system 2200, according to an embodiment. In an embodiment, coating system 2200 is attached to a stylus, such as stylus 1848. Coating system 2200 includes a PET layer 2202, an ITO layer 2204, a MCCP layer 2206, an electrolyte layer 2208, a cyan ECP layer 2210, and a PET layer 2214. In a further embodiment, these layers may be activated by the emitter included in stylus 1848 that includes circuitry for activating each or a combination of PET layer 2202, ITO layer 2204, MCCP layer 2206, electrolyte layer 2208, cyan ECP layer 2210, and PET layer 2212 and generate energy input that is propagated to contact circuit 1600 upon contact with stylus 1848.

[0145] FIG. 23A provides a schematic view of an exemplary coating system 2300 with a side clip 2320, according to an embodiment. Coating system 2300 includes a PET layer 2302, an ITO layer 2304, a MCCP layer 2306, an electrolyte layer 2308, a cyan ECP layer 2310, an ITO layer 2312 and a PET layer 2314. In an embodiment, side clip 2320 is served as a contact for activation of coating system 2300. FIG. 23B provides a cross- section view of the same coating system 2300 with the side clip 2320, described in FIG. 23A.

[0146] FIG. 24A is a schematic view of an exemplary coating system 2400 with a through-hole 2420, according to an embodiment. Coating system 2400 includes a PET layer 2402, an ITO layer 2404, a MCCP layer 2406, an electrolyte layer 2408, a cyan ECP layer 2410, an ITO layer 2412 and a PET layer 2414. In an embodiment, through- hole 2420 is served as a contract for activation of coating system 2400. FIG. 24B provides a cross-section view of the same coating system 2400 with the through-hole 2420, described in FIG. 24A.

[0147] FIG. 25A provides a schematic view of an exemplary coating system 2500 with a multi-layer structure of coaxial 2520, according to an embodiment. Coating system 2500 includes a PET layer 2502, an ITO layer 2504, a MCCP layer 2506, an electrolyte layer 2508, a cyan ECP layer 2510, an ITO layer 2512, and a PET layer 2514. In an embodiment, multi-layer structure of coaxial 2520 is served as a contract for activation of coating system 2500. FIG. 25B provides a cross-section view of the coating system 2500 with the multi-layer structure of coaxial 2520, described in FIG. 25A.

[0148] FIG. 26 provides a schematic view of an exemplary coating system 2600 with a side clip 2620, according to an embodiment. Coating system 2600 includes a PET layer 2602, an ITO layer 2604, a MCCP layer 2606, an electrolyte layer 2608, a cyan ECP layer 2610, an ITO layer 2612, and a PET layer 2614. In an embodiment, side clip 2320 is served as a contract for activation of coating system 2600. In an embodiment, coating system 2600 has a side-out layout with a portion of ITO layer 2612 and PET layer 2614 stick out from the rest of the layered structure.

[0149] In an embodiment, the coating systems such as described herein may have variety of different implementations, besides changing nail color on demand. The coating systems may be applied to glass windows, glass walls, glass doors, and room dividers have the glass change appearance on demand. For example, electronic device may be programmed to change a color of an all glass conference room to become the color selected on electronic device. In a further embodiment, an application may be downloaded to the electronic device that implements a GUI that allows a user to select the color of a room depending on a time of day, for a particular duration, the location of the room etc. [0150] In another embodiment, the coating systems described herein can also be applied to eye -wear. For example, the shade of glass in eye -wear can change on demand based on the color selection that a user provides using electronic device. In one embodiment different coats in the coating system can be applied to opposite sides of the glass included in eye wear.

[0151] In yet another embodiment, the coating systems described herein can also be applied to electronic device housings. For example, a housing of a smart phone, in one embodiment, can have a housing with a coating system that the smartphone can change on demand to a color selected by a user.

[0152] In yet another embodiment, coating systems such as described herein can also be applied to car paint, to change car color on demand. In this embodiment, a GUI displayed due to an application executing on electronic device allows a user to change color of the car, or make the color of the car brighter or darker, as the user desires. In this case, the emitter may be located on the car, and can receive a signal from the electronic device that includes a selection of a particular color.

[0153] FIG. 27A is a block diagram 2700A of a layout of an electrochromic material, according to an embodiment. As discussed in FIG. 9, the coating system includes one or more layers of an electrochromic material that stores charge. In FIG. 2700, there are two electrochromic materials called electrochomic polymers that emit different colors, ECP 2702 and 2704. ECP 2702 and 2704 are interleaved in the same layer but do not touch each other. Although FIG. 2700 depicts ECP 2702 and ECP 2704 as black, ECP 2702 and 2704 are actually comprise of a transparent material. In an embodiment, ECP 2702 and ECP 2704 may be red, green, blue, or white, or any other color in a color spectrum. In a further embodiment, depending on the strength of the energy signal ECP 2702 and ECP 2704 may display the color in different brightness, which results in the ECP 2702 and ECP 2704 producing color combinations of different colors and color variations in the color spectrum.

[0154] FIG. 27B is a block diagram 2700B of two electrochromic polymers separated by an insulating material, according to an embodiment. In an embodiment, insulating material 2706 separates ECP 2702 and ECP 2704 such that ECP 2702 and ECP 2704 form pixels.

[0155] FIG. 28 is a block diagram 2800 of two layers of electrochromic polymers, according to an embodiment. In an embodiment, block diagram 2800 includes layer 2802 and layer 2804. Layer 2802 includes ECP 2806 and ECP 2808, and layer 2804 includes ECP 2810 and ECP 2812. Additionally, block diagram 2800 also includes an insulating layer 2414. Layer 2414 insulates ECPs such that ECPs 2806, 2808, 2810, and 2812 form pixels as shown in pixels 2816. Each of pixels 2816 may be associated with a color of ECP 2806, 2808, 2810, and 2812. In an embodiment, where one of ECPs 2806, 2808, 2810, and 2812 are red, blue, green, or white, pixels 2816 from ECPs 2806, 2808, 2810, and 2812 may be combined to form different colors in the color spectrum based on different energy input that is applied to 2806, 2808, 2810, and 2812.

[0156] FIG. 29 is a block diagram 2900 of two layers of electrochromic polymers, according to an embodiment. In FIG. 29, ECPs 2902, 2904, 2906, and 2908 are positioned to form pixels as shown in pixels 2910. In a further embodiment, ECPs 2902, 2904 may be at a perpendicular angle to ECPs 2902, 2904. In a further embodiment, each of ECPs 2902, 2904, 2906, and 2908 is either red, blue, green, and white, such that energy input to ECPs 2902, 2904, 2906 causes ECPs 2902, 2904, 2906 to form different colors in the color spectrum.

[0157] Various embodiments can be implemented, for example, using one or more well- known electronic systems, such as electronic system 3000 shown in FIG. 30. Computer system 3000 can be any well-known computer capable of performing the functions described herein, or be implemented within or in conjunction with electronic devices described herein.

[0158] Electronic system 3000 includes one or more processors (also called central

processing units, or CPUs), such as a processor 3004. Processor 3004 is connected to a communication infrastructure or bus 3006.

[0159] One or more processors 3004 may each be a graphics processing unit (GPU). In an embodiment, a GPU is a processor that is a specialized electronic circuit designed to process mathematically intensive applications. The GPU may have a parallel structure that is efficient for parallel processing of large blocks of data, such as mathematically intensive data common to computer graphics applications, images, videos, etc.

[0160] Computer system 3000 also includes user input/output device(s) 3003, such as monitors, keyboards, pointing devices, etc., that communicate with communication infrastructure 3006 through user input/output interface(s) 3002.

[0161] Computer system 3000 also includes a main or primary memory 3008, such as random access memory (RAM). Main memory 3008 may include one or more levels of cache. Main memory 3008 has stored therein control logic (i.e., computer software) and/or data.

[0162] Computer system 3000 may also include one or more secondary storage devices or memory 3010. Secondary memory 3010 may include, for example, a hard disk drive 3012 and/or a removable storage device or drive 3014. Removable storage drive 3014 may be a floppy disk drive, a magnetic tape drive, a compact disk drive, an optical storage device, tape backup device, and/or any other storage device/drive.

[0163] Removable storage drive 3014 may interact with a removable storage unit 3018.

Removable storage unit 3018 includes a computer usable or readable storage device having stored thereon computer software (control logic) and/or data. Removable storage unit 3018 may be a floppy disk, magnetic tape, compact disk, DVD, optical storage disk, and/ any other computer data storage device. Removable storage drive 3014 reads from and/or writes to removable storage unit 3018 in a well-known manner.

[0164] According to an exemplary embodiment, secondary memory 3010 may include other means, instrumentalities or other approaches for allowing computer programs and/or other instructions and/or data to be accessed by computer system 3000. Such means, instrumentalities or other approaches may include, for example, a removable storage unit 3022 and an interface 3020. Examples of the removable storage unit 3022 and the interface 3020 may include a program cartridge and cartridge interface (such as that found in video game devices), a removable memory chip (such as an EPROM or PROM) and associated socket, a memory stick and USB port, a memory card and associated memory card slot, and/or any other removable storage unit and associated interface.

[0165] Computer system 3000 may further include a communication or network interface

3024. Communication interface 3024 enables electronic system 3000 to communicate and interact with any combination of remote devices, remote networks, remote entities, etc. (individually and collectively referenced by reference number 3028). For example, communication interface 3024 may allow electronic system 3000 to communicate with remote devices 3028 over communications path 3026, which may be wired and/or wireless, and which may include any combination of LANs, WANs, the Internet, etc. Control logic and/or data may be transmitted to and from electronic system 3000 via communication path 3026. [0166] In an embodiment, a tangible apparatus or article of manufacture comprising a tangible computer useable or readable medium having control logic (software) stored thereon is also referred to herein as a computer program product or program storage device. This includes, but is not limited to, electronic system 3000, main memory 3008, secondary memory 3010, and removable storage units 3018 and 3022, as well as tangible articles of manufacture embodying any combination of the foregoing. Such control logic, when executed by one or more data processing devices (such as electronic system 3000), causes such data processing devices to operate as described herein.

[0167] Based on the teachings contained in this disclosure, it will be apparent to persons skilled in the relevant art(s) how to make and use embodiments of the invention using data processing devices, computer systems and/or computer architectures other than that shown in FIG. 30. In particular, embodiments may operate with software, hardware, and/or operating system implementations other than those described herein.

CONCLUSION

[0168] These examples illustrate possible embodiments of the claimed invention. While various embodiments have been described above, it should be understood that they have been presented by way of example only, and not limitation. It will be apparent to persons skilled in the relevant art that various changes in form and detail can be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the claimed invention. Thus, the breadth and scope of the claimed invention should not be limited by any of the above-described exemplary embodiments, but should be defined only in accordance with the following claims and their equivalents.

[0169] The Summary and Abstract sections can set forth one or more, but not all exemplary embodiments as contemplated by the inventor(s), and thus, are not intended to limit the claimed invention and the appended claims in any way.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A coating system comprising:

a first layer configured to receive an energy input, wherein the energy input causes an optically active element to change one or more optical properties; and

a second layer configured to propagate the energy input to a first optically active element and a second optically active element separated by an insulating layer, wherein the energy input causes the first optically active element and the second optically active element to change color based on the strength of the energy input.

2. The coating system of claim 1, wherein the energy input includes at least one of electric field, current, or electromagnetic radiation input.

3. The coating system according to claim 1, wherein the energy input is generated as a result of an on-demand color selection on an electronic device.

4. The coating system according to claim 1, wherein the first optically active element comprises one or more of the following active agents: electrochromic material, photochromic material, electroluminescent material, thermochromic material, polymer- dispersed liquid crystal (PDLC), or suspended particle device (SPD) material.

5. The coating system according to claim 1, wherein the input is continuous or non- continuous.

6. The coating system according to claim 1, wherein the coating system is further configured to receive electromagnetic radiation input from the radiation source as the energy input; and

based on strength of the electromagnetic radiation input change the color of the first optically active element and the second optically active element.

7. The coating system according to claim 1, further comprising a radiation source, wherein the radiation source is further configured to adjust the energy input power and duration in response to a command from an electronic device.

8. The coating system according to claim 1, wherein the optically active element comprises at least two electrically conductive layers separated by one or more layers of electrochromic material.

9. The coating system according to claim 8, wherein the two electrically conductive layers comprise one or more of the following materials: indium tin oxide (ITO), tin oxide, zinc oxide, conductive polymers, graphene, carbon nanotubes, metallic grids, copper nanowires, silver nanowires, or combinations thereof.

10. The coating system according to claim 8, wherein the electrochromic material comprises electrochromic polymers.

11. The coating system according to claim 10, wherein the electrochromic polymers comprise poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT), PEDOT-PSS, poly(3,4- propylenedioxythiophene) (PProDOT), any derivatives thereof, or combinations thereof.

12. The coating system according to claim 11, wherein the electrochromic polymers change their optical properties in response to low voltage and amperage applied upon.

13. The coating system according to claim 1, wherein the coating system further comprises a contact circuit configured to receive the energy input and propagate the energy input to the first layer.

14. The coating system according to claim 15, wherein the user input from the electronic device is selected from a color control graphical user interface (GUI).

15. The coating system according to claim 1 , wherein the coating system is configured to be applied to a nail.

16. A method for preparing a coating system, comprising:

applying a matrix to a surface that includes a receiver system, wherein the receiver system stores power that provides power to the matrix; and

applying one or more active agents to the matrix, wherein one or more active agents cause the coating system to change color in response to an electric input.

The method of claim 21, wherein the energy input is at least one of electric field, current or electromagnetic radiation.

18. A method comprising :

selecting a color using a color control GUI executing on an electronic device; in response to the selecting, transmitting a signal associated with the selected color to an emitter;

transforming the signal into an energy input; and

transmitting the energy input into a color coating system, wherein the energy input causes the coating system to change color to the color selected on the color control GUI of the electronic device.

The method of claim 18, wherein selecting the color comprises selecting the color from the color spectrum, and the coating system changes the color to the selected color.

The method of claim 18, wherein the energy input is wireless received by the color coating system in response to the color selection.