BMW is ready for serial production of cars that change the color of the body. The database of the World Intellectual Property Organization revealed two patents that will allow the production of chameleon cars: their color can be adjusted instantly without the use of paint. And this applies not only to the exterior, but also to the interior, since the innovative film can be glued to any three-dimensional surface.
The first patent reveals the features of a decorative film, which is a “smart” glass with millions of microscopic capsules no thicker than a human hair. They can be white and black or other combinations at the buyer’s choice. During electrical stimulation, particles of a certain color will collect on the surface of the film, painting the body in the desired shade. The owner of the car will only need to use the switch.
The same technology can be applied to exterior elements such as the grille or mirror housings, as well as to interior details. The film envelops any volumetric surface due to the structure of many tiny triangles.
The second patent covers a method for applying this decorative layer to cars. Apparently, BMW will resort to simple glue, making the film self-adhesive. But its outer part needs special protection: another film will be applied on top, and then a layer of transparent varnish.
When the technology will become available for production BMWs is still unknown. The Bavarians demonstrated its use more than a year ago on the iX Flow concept crossover with “unprecedented potential for personalization”, which changed color in real time. True, only black and white colors were available to him.
Author: Mariya Ruckaya
Source: Motor.ru