Seamless integration of LiDAR sensors in a polycarbonate front structure.
MANNHEIM, GERMANY: Covestro AG said that it will present new concepts based on polycarbonate for e-mobility and autonomous driving. The focal points of the developments are integration of lighting and sensor technology, automotive glazing, a functional and individually designed interior, and the powertrain for electric vehicles.
Driven by new technologies, mobility is changing worldwide. Trends such as autonomous driving, connectivity and electrification require completely new vehicle concepts and technologies. Functional plastic solutions play a vital role in ensuring economic, safe and individual integration.
Key material for future mobility
Polycarbonate has been used for many years in innovative applications in the electrical/electronics and automotive industries. Due to its outstanding properties, it can also serve as a key material for the new mobility.
Example: seamless design
One example is the seamless glazing of injection-moulded elements and the integration of vitreous body parts. The use of polycarbonate combines design freedom and functionality with the safety of passengers and other road users. For example, seamlessly integrated LED lighting concepts and front elements that are permeable to infrared radiation from LiDAR sensors also contribute to this.
In car interiors, good thermal insulation of polycarbonate also ensures effective thermal management: The air conditioning system consumes less energy when heating and cooling, which leads to a longer range of electric cars.
"The value chains face enormous challenges. Most of the future functionalities are derived from the electrical and electronics industry, whether it is about the electric drive or battery technology, sensor technology, connectivity or artificial intelligence," explained Dr Eckhard Wenz, the car expert from Covestro.
The company will present these products at the VDI Congress "plastics in automotive engineering."
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