Wireless communication through special glass in cars: Japanese manufacturer showcases possibilities

Sensing, connectivity, and cockpit design How high-tech glass in cars meets electronics

2025-01-14 From Dipl.-Ing. (FH) Hendrik Härter | Translated by AI 2 min Reading Time

Special glass in cars enables wireless communication, is integrated into the cockpit, or contains sensors. A Japanese manufacturer demonstrates what is possible with glass in cars.

High-tech glass in cars: When special glass meets electronics.(Image: AGC) — High-tech glass in cars: When special glass meets electronics.
(Image: AGC)

When thinking of glass in vehicles, the first thing that comes to mind is the windshield made of laminated safety glass (LSG), which provides splinter protection and increased stability in accidents.

However, glass offers even more possibilities in modern vehicles, especially in combination with electronic components. This is where players increasingly come into play, offering glass as a component for electronics development. One such provider is AGC Automotive.

Glass for sensor integration

With the Wideye brand, AGC offers glass solutions specifically developed for the requirements of optical sensors such as lidar and cameras.

(Image: AGC)

With the emergence of autonomous vehicles and advanced driver assistance systems, the demand for seamless sensor integration is increasing. With the Wideye brand, AGC offers glass solutions specifically developed for the requirements of optical sensors such as lidar and cameras. Since 2016, Wideye has specialized in glass developments for 360-degree sensor integration. This is intended to ensure that any type of optical sensor can be used anywhere in the vehicle.

The transparency for near-infrared light and the high optical quality of the glass enable precise data transmission. This is achieved through high optical purity, allowing the unimpeded functioning of sensors that rely on light reflection and precise signal processing.

The sensors are placed in strategic areas of the vehicle, such as behind windshields or in glass roofs. The glass serves as a protective layer and ensures seamless integration into the vehicle design.

Hintergrund Asahi Glass Company (AGC)

AGC is the name of the AGC group, a global provider of glass, chemicals, and high-tech materials. Founded in Japan in 1907 (Asahi Glass Company), the company has over a century of experience in glass manufacturing and has established itself as an innovation leader in various industries such as automotive, construction, architecture, and electronics. Activities for the automotive industry have developed significantly since the beginning of the millennium.

Cockpits get improved glass design

Ultrathin, highly specialized cover glasses for functional and aesthetic requirements.(Image: AGC) — Ultrathin, highly specialized cover glasses for functional and aesthetic requirements.
(Image: AGC)

The future of vehicle interiors is being redefined by improved glass materials. Here, AGC offers its FeelInGlass brand. It focuses on the development of ultra-thin, highly specialized cover glass that meets both functional and aesthetic requirements. This glass is used not only as a decorative covering but also as an interface capable of seamlessly integrating sensors and electronics.

Particularly in head-up displays (HUD), the technical properties are highlighted: the glass offers high light transmittance and robustness, enabling complex projections and high-resolution displays directly on the surface. Here, functionality and advanced design merge into a crucial element of modern vehicle interiors.

Glass-integrated antenna systems for improved connectivity

Two low-reflection chambers for RF tests complement the antenna solutions. They can be used by companies in the automotive and aerospace industries that require fast and precise measurements.(Image: AGC) — Two low-reflection chambers for RF tests complement the antenna solutions. They can be used by companies in the automotive and aerospace industries that require fast and precise measurements.
(Image: AGC)

In an increasingly connected world, antennas are the foundation of modern mobility. Pulsaart by AGC allows high-frequency antennas to be seamlessly integrated into glass roofs. Several functions are combined: first, the integration ensures efficient and uninterrupted data transmission, which is crucial for modern vehicles with 4G, 5G, and future communication standards.

On the other hand, the use of special glass materials allows for lower signal losses and improved reflection characteristics. Particularly relevant for developers is the compatibility with existing antenna architectures and the scalability to different vehicle types. Additionally, specially designed RF test chambers support the optimization and validation of systems to ensure maximum efficiency and reliability.

In addition to vehicles, the windows of trains also benefit: a special laser treatment makes it possible for the panes to guarantee improved mobile network connectivity. (heh)

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