In the world of technological advancements, multiple industries are constantly seeking innovative solutions to enhance efficiency, comfort, and overall user experience. The railway industry is no exception, with the advent of smart glass technology making significant strides in revolutionizing the way we travel by train. The integration of switchable smart glass, equipped with Polymer Dispersed Liquid Crystal (PDLC) or Suspended Particle Device (SPD) technologies, is transforming conventional train cabins into futuristic, smart spaces that cater to the diverse needs of passengers and operators alike.
The Many Benefits of Smart Glass Trains
The options for incorporating smart glass technology into many features of trains, including windows and skylights, passenger cars and driver compartments, continue to grow as smart glass trains become even smarter, benefitting OEM manufacturers, operators, crew and passengers. Come along as we explore the ever-expanding world of smart glass trains.
Extended Functionality
When smart glass is integrated into railway compliant Insulating Glass Units (IGU) windows, a myriad of functionalities becomes possible. With smart glass’s ability to switch on or off in milliseconds, passengers can control their personal lighting via touch panels at their seats, through a centralized system, or preset automations. This dynamic shading capability not only enhances privacy but also facilitates solar control, providing a comfortable and customized environment for travelers. In addition, smart glass panels on smart glass trains can serve as a transparent display, transforming an entire window into an informative interface.
Passenger Comfort and Wellbeing
The utilization of smart glass addresses can elevate the passenger experience to new levels. By blocking glare without compromising scenic views, ensuring privacy when needed, and providing thermal and visual comfort, smart glass contributes to an overall sense of well-being during train journeys.
Here is what a smart glass railway can offer to its clientele:
- A sophisticated modern design that provides a futuristic experience
- Privacy on demand
- Thermal comfort with solar IR control
- Windows that offer both shade and a view for a connection to the outdoors
- Access to route info and visual engagement
- Greater use of natural light
Dynamic Designs Smart glass solutions embrace cutting-edge technologies, adding a thrilling futuristic feel to cabin design. This not only caters to the evolving needs of passengers, but also helps railway operators stand out as innovators in the industry by reinforcing a strong and innovative brand image. Creating an experience for passengers that differentiates one railway brand from its competitors is increasingly important, as passengers begin to expect more compelling and comfortable journeys.
High ROI
Railway operators stand to benefit significantly from the implementation of smart glass technology. The reduction in HVAC costs, protection against material deterioration from UV exposure with 99% UV blocking, and decreased overhead costs associated with down time due to cleaning and maintenance contribute to a high return on investment.
Solar Light Blocking and Controlled Energy Costs
Smart glass train windows block harmful UV light, even in their transparent state, while an IR barrier can strengthen heat blockage. The windows can be darkened when the train is not in use, keeping the interior cooler and therefore reducing air-conditioning use.
The Creative Use of Smart Glass in Smart Glass Trains
The many ways in which smart glass can be incorporated into railcar design continue to grow. Here are just a few:
Passenger Windows
SPD supports precise shading without limiting views. On the other hand, PDLC allows privacy from the outside of the coach when passing through populated areas, protecting certain areas from view.
Sky Facing Windows
In addition to smart glass railway seat windows that provide shading, glare reduction, and solar blocking, skylights and sky-facing panoramic windows and vents can turn a monotonous train ride into a thrilling experience.
Partitions and Dividers
Partitions between seats and classes, in both first-class and coach cabins, provide an unparalleled opportunity for enhanced privacy, as well as indicating whether a particular seat is available.
Transparent Displays
Windows and divider panels can easily switch into digital displays for time and location-based messages as well as advertising and brand promotion. Various Train Types
A particularly scenic route can be used as an opportunity to promote tourist trains, providing stunning viewing experiences as glass switches from opaque to transparent. The same smart glass technology can be used for specially timed scenic sections on a specific route. A train’s interior can be filled with a changing display or scenery to create visual themes and mood lighting.
Conductor Cabins
Smart glass windows can replace sun visors and shading mechanisms for reduced eye strain and a more comfortable operating environment.
Case Studies
Transparent OLED on Smart Trains for Information, Advertising and Entertainment
LG Display, the world’s only Transparent OLED manufacturer, has successfully implemented its products in smart railway systems. Transparent OLEDs, encasing millions of pixels within material transparent enough to replace ordinary glass, have been utilized in subway systems in major Chinese cities and the East Japan Railway Company since 2020. LG Display’s participation in InnoTrans 2022 showcased advanced Transparent OLED solutions, offering new customer experiences through innovative applications.
At the InnoTrans exhibition, LG Display’s booth replicated a small train station with Transparent OLEDs used for windows and doors. These 55” Transparent OLEDs displayed a range of content,
including driving information, transfer details, weather updates, and news. The durability of Transparent OLED for railways, even in challenging environments with vibrations and dust, was highlighted through collaborations with global industrial glass manufacturing companies, ensuring strength and reliability.
Smart Glass Train Fitted with SPD Cabin Windows for Dynamic Shading and Improved Passenger Experience
Germany’s Deutsche Bahn (DB) showcased the potential future of train travel with the “Idea Train” initiative, featuring a cabin fitted with Gauzy SPD smart glass technology. This innovative solution allows passengers to control light levels through a sliding touch panel, eliminating the need for traditional roller shutters or curtains.
Gauzy’s advanced SPD smart glass provides custom dimming and segmented blinds, blocking up to 95% of visible light to control glare and temperature, ensuring a comfortable environment for passengers. The digital interface offers a modern, user-controlled shading experience integrated directly into the glass, promoting easy maintenance, energy efficiency, and a sleek design aesthetic.
As smart glass technology continues to evolve, it presents a game-changing opportunity for the railway industry. Railway OEMs who integrate this transformative technology into their future train designs can enjoy many benefits, including improved passenger experience, enhanced safety, and a forward-focused brand image. With clear tracks ahead, the revolutionizing journey of smart glass in railways is set to redefine the way we travel, ensuring a seamless blend of technology and comfort for passengers worldwide.
Are you involved in the manufacturing or design of trains and train cabins of any type and want to learn more about smart glass? Give us a call to find out whether Gauzy’s smart glass is the right choice for you.
Want to learn more about Smart Glass or receive a quote? Contact the Smart Glass experts at Gauzy today.
