BASF and Philips have achieved a practical breakthrough
in the development of OLED (Organic Light Emitting
Diode) 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.
The transparent OLED lighting concept allows new
approaches to automotive engineering. The transparent
OLED sandwich structure can be combined with equally
transparent solar cells.
BASF and Philips have cooperated closely since 2006
within the OLED 2015 initiative of Germany's Federal
Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF). BASF
develops organo-chemical materials such as dyes that
are used in the development and manufacturing of OLEDs
by Philips.
OLED technology offers the advantage of high energy
efficiency, in addition to creative flexibility and
new options for designers. OLED light sources are just
1.8 millimeters thin and can be transparent. The
entire surface of an OLED illuminates with diffused
light, making it a very soft light source that
produces less harsh shadows compared to point light
sources.