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BASF and Philips have achieved a practical breakthrough in
the development of organic light-emitting diode (OLED) technology that allows
it to be integrated in car roofs. The OLEDs are transparent when switched off,
allowing for a clear view outside the vehicle, yet providing light only within
the vehicle when switched on. This OLED lighting concept for car roofs is the
result of a longstanding cooperation between BASF and Philips in the research
and development of OLED modules.
In addition to offering new design possibilities, the
transparent OLED lighting concept also allows new approaches to automotive
engineering. The transparent OLED sandwich structure can be combined with
equally transparent solar cells.
“This combination allows the driver to enjoy a unique
open-space feeling while it generates electricity during the day and pleasantly
suffuses the interior with the warm light of the transparent, highly efficient
OLEDs at night,” said Felix Görth, PhD, head of Organic Light-Emitting Diodes
and Organic Photovoltaics at BASF Future Business GmbH.
Dietrich Bertram, PhD, general manager of OLED lighting at
Philips, added: “This project provides impressive evidence of new possibilities
with OLEDs, and illustrates the potential of Philips’ Lumiblade OLED technology
to help create innovative lighting applications that enhance people’s lives.”
BASF and Philips have cooperated closely since 2006 within
the OLED 2015 initiative of Germany’s
Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF).
BASF, www.basf.com
