The era of self-driving cars is just over the horizon, promising efficient travel, secure transportation for the elderly, solutions for logistics labor shortages, and reduced accidents caused by human error. Autonomous vehicles will play a key role in this future, but to fulfill their promise they must be able to safely navigate any environment at any time.

Safe autonomous driving will depend on AI and advanced control units to accurately ascertain driving conditions. But no matter how advanced these technologies are, safety hinges on the continuous and reliable collection of data about the surrounding environment.

Advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) rely on LiDAR -- short for light detection and ranging -- for the 'eyes' that see the surrounding environment.* LiDAR bounces laser light such as near-infrared off surroundings to measure distances and shapes.

* LiDAR, along with cameras, millimeter-wave radar and ultrasonic radar, is crucial for accurate detection of people and obstacles and plays a vital role in creating a digital 3D map of the vehicle's surroundings.

In order to integrate LiDAR into vehicles, automakers need durable glass that can withstand prolonged exposure to harsh conditions like sunlight, rain and shock.

Leveraging its extensive expertise in automotive safety glass, AGC has introduced Wideye™, a glass specially designed for LiDAR. The glass boasts high near-infrared transparency while protecting sensor modules against damage. Wideye™ is optimally suited for the long-term safety of autonomous driving systems and ADAS, and is planned to launch globally in 2024.

The first involves getting the most out of glass materials. LiDAR cover glass requires exceptionally high transparency to minimize infrared light attenuation while being strong enough to meet automotive safety standards. AGC has developed the perfect composition of glass materials that provide both transparency and strength. The glass in Wideye™ enhances infrared light transparency over 20% compared to standard automotive glass, enabling sensors to see for greater distances.

The second technology focuses on shaping glass to match the form of LiDAR modules. LiDAR placement and specifications vary by vehicle. Hence, each LiDAR cover requires a unique shape and functionality.

Achieving high infrared light transparency in glass through heat processing has always been a challenge. AGC has overcome this hurdle with its unique curved-molding technology, which is based on vast experience in manufacturing myriad types of glass. Furthermore, AGC possesses a broad range of capabilities including coating technologies for enhanced anti-reflection features and water repellency, integrated molding with resin, and integrated electric heating. When skillfully combined, these capabilities allow AGC to produce different components depending on the needs of each customer.

The third technology is based on seamlessly integrating LiDAR into the vehicle without compromising exterior design. Optimal data collection requires LiDAR modules to be installed around the vehicle to provide 360-degree vision. But their size poses a challenge for automakers wanting to preserve aesthetics.

AGC’s design expertise helps automakers maintain the beauty of a car’s design. Through collaboration with LiDAR module suppliers and automakers, AGC starts cover design at the early stages of vehicle development, ensuring seamless integration with each vehicle model.

AGC has an extensive lineup of Wideye™, ensuring compatibility with all major types of LiDAR (Figure 1).

Figure 1: Wideye™ product lineup © AGC Automotive Europe