Special glass for lidar sensors in the automotive industry: An interview with Julian Seibel from AGC

Lidar sensors behind glass "Glass That Transmits Nearly 100% of Near Infrared Light"

2025-01-21 The interview was conducted by | Translated by AI 2 min Reading Time

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For lidar sensors to function effectively behind a windshield, the glass must transmit nearly 100% of near-infrared light. In an interview, Julian Seibel from AGC discusses the advanced requirements of specialized glass for automotive lidar sensors and the innovations addressing these demands.

Lidar sensors can be placed directly behind the windshield. Julian Seibel from AGC explains what is important when it comes to the glass used.(Image: AGC) — Lidar sensors can be placed directly behind the windshield. Julian Seibel from AGC explains what is important when it comes to the glass used.
(Image: AGC)

In modern vehicles, antennas can be seamlessly integrated into the glass roof, while lidar sensors are embedded in the windshield. Special decorative glass is utilized in the cockpit, allowing drivers to interact with the vehicle by touching designated areas on the glass surface. The Japanese company AGC demonstrates this innovative design in detail.

Autonomous vehicles require sophisticated sensor technology to ensure reliable and safe navigation. In an interview with Julian Seibel, Business Development Manager Wideye at AGC, we wanted to find out more: What does the special glass offer in combination with lidar technology?

Mr. Seibel, what are the optical and mechanical properties of Wideye glass, particularly in terms of thermal expansion and scratch resistance?

Julian Seibel is Business Development Manager Wideye at AGC. "The almost 100 percent light transmission in the near infrared range enables the use of lidar sensors directly behind the glass."(Image: AGC) — Julian Seibel is Business Development Manager Wideye at AGC. "The almost 100 percent light transmission in the near infrared range enables the use of lidar sensors directly behind the glass."
(Image: AGC)

Wideye glass is a high-strength soda-lime glass (standard glass) which, like all other automotive glazing from AGC, is characterized by very high dimensional stability and scratch resistance. Particularly noteworthy is the almost 100 percent light transmission in the near infrared range, in which lidar sensors operate. This combination of durability and functionality makes it possible for Wideye glass to be fitted with lidar sensors.

How are interferences or reflections from the glass minimized during signal processing?

The homogeneity of the Wideye glass minimizes interference while the sensor signal penetrates the glass. To reduce signal loss due to reflections, AGC has developed special anti-reflective coatings that are precisely matched to the respective lidar technology. These coatings optimize the efficiency and range of the sensors.

Are the developed glasses compatible with different sensor types (e.g. lidar from different manufacturers)?

Wideye glass is technology-independent and compatible with all lidar technologies and wavelengths relevant to the automotive industry. Once the customer has decided on a specific lidar model, AGC can offer customized anti-reflective coatings that are precisely matched to the selected requirements. This significantly increases the performance of the sensor.

How is electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) ensured?

Our products meet all legal requirements for electromagnetic compatibility and comply with the relevant specifications. This ensures that the systems function perfectly even in complex electromagnetic environments.

How robust are the technologies against environmental influences such as UV radiation, moisture or extreme temperatures?

Wideye glass is automotive grade glazing, which means that it can be fully approved like a standard windshield. As such, Wideye glass meets all the usual requirements that also apply to standard automotive glazing.

Which vehicle segments (e.g. premium or mass market) are the main targets for the glasses?

The focus is currently on premium vehicles, as the costs of lidar sensors are still relatively high. However, as this technology becomes more widespread and costs fall, it is expected that Wideye glass will also be used in mass market vehicles. Thanks to AGC's global production infrastructure, Wideye is ideally equipped for this scaling. (heh)

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

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