Over the years, glass has gained a position of absolute importance in the design of intelligent solutions for automotive industry.
Recent advances in materials science and the stimulating resourcefulness of the glass industry have changed the perception of this element, which is today considered a key factor for both safety and vehicle design.
Safety first
Since its first uses, glass has represented a resistant barrier for security of drivers and passengers, protecting against adverse weather conditions and debris and offering robust structural support in the event of collisions.
The different types of this material ensure further crucial advantages for safe and comfortable travel. The laminated glass prevents the risk of shattering, while that tempered, used primarily for side and rear windows, reduces the risk of serious injury in the event of an accident.
Attention to design
Advances in glass design have also had an important impact onidentity and the design of cars. In fact, there are greater possibilities for customization, starting from the color. The tinted glass, for example, combines the aesthetic choice and the greater level of privacy with thermal comfort for the people who occupy the passenger compartment.
Smart glass
Particularly interesting today is the use of smart glass, a material that has the ability to adjust its opacity depending on external conditions and the preferences of drivers and passengers.
From a smart perspective, we must also not ignore the precious contribution offered by head-up display (Hud), devices originally developed for aeronautics, which project useful information into the pilot's field of vision, improving and making the driving experience safer.
Sustainability
Safety and aesthetics are therefore two of the main directions of the automotive sector. They are joined by the macro-theme of sustainability. The automotive glass industry has given way to a green path based on the use and development of ecologically responsible materials and production systems and closed loop systems.
The future
The automotive sector is focusing its efforts on the design of autonomous vehicles. In this context, glass plays a primary role for the correct integration of sensors and for an engaging driving experience. The trends therefore push for a wide adoption of head-up displays, a symbol of those integrated features which will profoundly change our concept of 'windshield'.
In short, our material continues to improve the level of safety and performance of vehicles while offering itself as a digital hub with unlimited potential.
Source: glassonline.com
