by Michael Hemsworth Courtesy Trend Hunter
This liquid crystal technology has been announced by Italy-based optics research firm Irid Technology as a solution for motorcyclists to help keep the sun out of their eyes in a decidedly automated way.
The technology works by responding to solar rays and will automatically adjust the tint to protect the wearer's eyes from the bright sun's rays. The transition doesn't need to be triggered and will automatically activate, and takes less than a second to do so to work well in dynamic lighting conditions. The technology also doesn't require battery power to eliminate the need for recharging or battery replacements.
The liquid crystal technology from Irid Technology comes in several tiny color options with prices starting at €390. ($463.00)
Trend Themes
1. Automatic Photochromic Wearables - A rise in materials that auto-adjust optical properties in under a second creates opportunities for garments and accessories that seamlessly adapt to changing light without user input.
2. Battery Free Smart Tinting - This class of passive tinting solutions that operate without onboard power suggests scalable integrations into products where weight, maintenance, or rechargeability are constraints.
3. Rapid-response Liquid Crystal Optics - Advances in fast-switching liquid crystal formulations enable thin, lightweight optical layers suitable for dynamic environments requiring near-instantaneous glare control.
Industry Implications
1. Motorcycle Gear and Helmets - Helmet visors and rider eyewear could incorporate automatic tinting to enhance safety and comfort in varying daylight and tunnel transitions.
2. Automotive Sun-control Systems - Car windows and sunroofs stand to gain from passive, fast-acting tint layers that reduce cabin glare without draining vehicle electrical systems.
3. Eyewear and Smart Glasses - Prescription glasses and augmented-reality displays may leverage sub-second, power-free tinting to preserve visual clarity across outdoor-to-indoor transitions.
