Patent attributes
An infrared reflecting device includes a multi-layer infrared reflecting body composed of a plurality of superimposed infrared reflecting members, and temperature-sensitive members positioned surrounding the side faces of the multi-layer infrared reflecting body. The infrared reflecting member includes colloidal crystal particles arrayed at regular lattice spacing, and a filler interposed between the colloidal crystal particles. Depending on temperature, the temperature-sensitive members supply the filler with moisture, and the lattice spacing of the colloidal crystal particles changes due to swelling of the filler. Since lattice spacing changes the reflected wavelength from the ultraviolet region to the infrared region on the basis of Bragg's law and Snell's law, the amount of transmitted infrared radiation can be adjusted efficiently.