Auto glass is a type of laminated glass that is used as a protective shield against bad weather and other external forces. Though they look the same, every pane has its unique compositions, features, and is actually made from different technologies.
And so in this writing, we are going to give a rundown of the different kinds of auto glass so you will be familiar with these technologies and features in your car. Since cars are more advanced these days, it is also important that you know some basic knowledge about your vehicle’s glass.
We hope that this article will serve as a guide so you can learn more about auto glass technology and be familiar with some the things you need to about the parts, designs, and the latest auto glass innovations.
About Auto Glass Parts
Auto glass is designed to fit a particular area of your vehicle. In short, not one type can replace the other. And though at times they used the same kind of technology (laminated or tempered), they shaped differently so it could fit specific window areas. Here are the glass parts that are usually installed in your car (Note: Some of these parts may or may not be present depending on the type of car that you have):
- Windshield
- Rear windshield
- Side glass
- Vent glass
- Quarter glass
- Sliders
- Sunroof (optional)
Different Glass Technologies Used
The automotive industry has come a long way from using conventional glass in cars because most of today’s vehicles are packed with various kinds of auto glass technology. And most of these technologies are designed to keep up with the safety standards of every car (something that normal glass cannot provide as it usually breaks into smaller pieces upon impact), being able to sense danger, and also alerting you of any objects that you might encounter along the road.
All the glass technologies we are going to mention in this section are made to revolutionize the safety of the driver and the passengers as well:
- ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems). ADAS is a technological advancement that alerts the driver for potential collisions and problems that might occur while driving. The front-facing camera and sensors are located on the windscreen itself. Watch this video to learn more about this amazing innovation.
- Light Sensor. A technology that allows you to automatically switch on the lights when the surrounding is getting dark.
- Rain Sensor. Has the same function as a light sensor (at times, adjacent to the light sensor). It automatically turns on the windshield wipers when rain is being detected.
- VIN (Vehicle Identification Number). It’s a 17-digit code that is displayed in your dashboard for easy tracking repairs, change of ownership, services, and windshield replacement.
- Heads-up display (HUD). This technology projects images directly on the windshield for easy viewing while driving (the diver won’t have to look away in front as all the images displayed are transparent).
- Infrared (IR). This auto glass technology allows you to filter out harmful infrared rays from the sun but also enabling visible light to pass through at the same time. The glass is usually transparent and can reflect up to 50 percent of infrared rays to the atmosphere, which also results in less heat inside the car.
- Heated. A kind of glass with layers of fine tungsten wires to raise the temperature of the glass and defrost any ice and snow away from your windshield.
- Shade bands. A type of glass that provides protection from glare.
- Night Vision. This is an optional auto glass technology feature that alerts you for any hot spot ahead on the road or for any living or moving thing that can cause potential danger to your driving.
We recommend that you learn more about these different glass technologies being used today and how they play a role in keeping you safe and comfortable while driving. If you want more information about this topic, you can visit Auto Glass Windscreen Expert’s website.