SYLMAR, Calif. - PPG and Vision Systems have reached a commercial agreement to work together on developing new applications utilizing Vision Systems' electronically dimmable window shading solutions for aircraft. The agreement provides a framework for the two firms to pursue opportunities in commercial, regional, military, and general aviation applications.

PPG has supplied electrochromic window shading systems for commercial aircraft and ground vehicles since 2007. Vision Systems, based near Lyon, France, supplies aircraft shading systems and associated electronics.

Brent Wright, PPG global business director for aerospace transparencies, said, "PPG is excited to work with Vision Systems to create new applications for a product that provides unique performance characteristics. As a pioneer in the electrochromic window segment, PPG recognized the added value offered by Vision Systems to the standard dimmable film technology, especially with the interface that makes its system work."

Vision Systems' dimmable window solutions provide instant response time for changing light transmittance and have no size limitations relative to aircraft transparency applications. The dimmable windows can be controlled individually by a seat-side wired or wireless interface or cabin-wide through the aircraft cabin window management system.

"As a result, we can develop applications for larger transparencies with flat or curved shapes as well as retrofit installations, including with add-on panels," Wright said.

Vision Systems developed its latest-generation Nuance V2 dimmable window through its Smart Lite division. It is based on suspended particle device film technology licensed from Research Frontiers and a Vision Systems interlayer that provides optical quality with 2.5 percent haze, 100 percent clarity, and 99.6 percent blockage of visible light with the ultra-dark version of the Nuance product.

Source: PPG