A new wide nano-multilayer film that reflects light only from oblique angles has been developed by Toray Industries. When used in head-up display (HUD) technology, the Picasus VT film provides high-definition, double image-free projections across the entire windshield. According to the company, the display stays clear even when viewed through polarized sunglasses.
Current HUD technology projects S-polarized images onto the windshield because glass reflects this type of light more easily. However, standard windshields reflect images from both the front and rear surfaces, creating double images. While specially designed windshields can reduce this effect, they only provide clear displays in certain areas. Another issue is that polarized sunglasses, commonly worn in Europe and the USA, absorb S-polarized light, making HUD images invisible to those wearing them.
Toray has worked to expand the use of Picasus VT for HUDs by leveraging its proprietary nano-multilayer technology and advanced optical design capabilities. Picasus VT offers glass-like transparency when viewed head-on while selectively controlling reflectivity at oblique angles. When paired with a light source that emits P-polarized images – which glass surfaces do not reflect – it can solve these visibility issues.
Picasus VT is said to offer several key features for HUD projection. It reflects images only on the film surface, enabling high-definition information display across the entire screen. It also maintains excellent visibility, even when viewed through polarized sunglasses, and it supports augmented reality displays with depth perception, enabling projections to appear at varying distances, from near to far.
Toray has improved the material design, production equipment and manufacturing processes for this film, enabling the production of 1,600mm-wide rolls that fit most windshields. Comprehensive customer evaluations are currently in progress.
By enabling high-definition, double image-free displays that remain visible even through polarized sunglasses, Toray’s technology enables drivers to access driving assistance information with minimal eye movement. It also ensures clear visibility in bright sunlight, enhancing driving safety.
It also solves display quality issues in panoramic HUDs, which can help create more spacious and refined vehicle interiors. Toray will continue working toward full-screen windshield displays and augmented reality HUD systems.
