Patent ID: 7255914

Claim:
A multilayer structure comprising, a plurality of at least two alternating layers A and B represented by formula (AB) x , where x=2 n , and n is in the range of from 4 to 15; wherein layer A is comprised of component (a) and layer B is comprised of component (b); said alternating layers are comprised of different polymers exhibiting differences in the index of refraction and in the elastic moduli; wherein said differences in the index of refraction are between 0.05 and 4 units; wherein the layer thickness of said layer A and B are less than one quarter of the wavelength of interest; wherein said multilayer polymer structure behaves as an effective medium and wherein said structure exhibits a single refractive index; wherein said effective medium polymeric materials are transparent; and wherein the refractive index of said multilayered structure effective medium material can be varied by tensile, compressive or shear force.