Liquid-crystal light-control film first adopted for side windows of new 2024 Toyota Century

Japan-based Toppan launched its innovative LC MAGIC™, a light-control film that changes from transparent to opaque at the flick of a switch, back in 2016. Now, the world’s first light-control side-window glass, combining LC MAGIC™, has been adopted for Toyota Motor Corp.’s (Toyota) new 2024 Century model luxury car, announced on September 6. The optical properties of LC MAGIC™ enable both superior transparency and shielding of 3% haze when transparent (above left) and 99% when opaque (above right).

Due to changes in weather and temperature and the repeated opening and closing of doors and windows, light-control films for use in vehicles require a high\\er level of durability than those used in the interior spaces of buildings. However, it has been difficult to minimize the width of the outer seal that protects the liquid crystals inside the light-control film to make full use of the large opening that is characteristic of side windows.

Addressing these challenges, Toppan reexamined liquid crystals and electrodes and refined the technology for the outer seal (optimizing sealant-material coating conditions, such as thickness, width, and coating automation) to develop a light-control film that delivers performance optimized for the side windows of vehicles. Hassle-free switching between on and off also makes it possible to enhance the comfort of the interior environment for drivers and passengers.

Features of LC MAGIC™ for side-window glass

Proprietary technology used to minimize seal width and thickness: Using the automated sealing equipment at Toppan’s Shiga Plant, it has become possible to swiftly minimize seal width and thickness. Protecting the edges with the outer seal prevents damage in the form of liquid crystals becoming transparent due to external moisture or the components of the glass’s intermediate layer. Toppan has ensured the high level of reliability required for vehicle use and established a sealing technology that enables the large opening of side windows to be maintained.