October 29, 2007 Hino Motors, Ltd has unveiled a concept motorcoach incorporating SPD-Smart light-control windows – a technology that blocks more than 99% of UV radiation and allows vehicle occupants to instantly control the amount of sunlight, glare and heat passing through the windows and sunroofs.
The patented technology developed by Research Frontiers Inc. is featured in the S’elega Premium luxury tour bus which is currently on display at the 40th Tokyo Motor Show 2007.
The S’elega Premium has five large curved SPD-Smart laminated window panels totaling over 11 square meters of glass (more than 36 square feet) on the side of the motorcoach. The windows can be instantly, uniformly and accurately dimmed at the touch of a button. They vary from appearing as clear as a standard automotive windshield to being six to eight times darker than a dark conventional automotive window film in a transition that takes just seconds.
As well as providing control over the amount of light, glare and heat passing through the windows, the system featured on the S’elega Premium also boasts noise reduction properties, greater security for both privacy and structural integrity, and the protection of interiors and occupants from heat and harmful ultraviolet radiation.
In the tour bus environment, SPD-Smart windows also permit the tour guide to selectively reveal scenery during the tour and passengers can adjust the tint of their own windows according to personal preference.
The concept motorcoach itself offers a number of notable features designed to take touring to a new level of luxury including a spacious leather seating layout (2 seats per row), large personal monitors and on-board galley for passenger service.
SPD technology has many applications outside the automotive industry where light-control is useful. These include marine, aerospace and building applications as well as sunglasses that can be adjusted to regulate the amount of light entering.
For more information see Research Frontiers’ website.
