Merck debuts automotive innovations at the IAA

 

Merck, a leading science and technology company based in Darmstadt, Germany, exhibits for the first time at the International Motor Show (IAA) in Frankfurt, Germany, presenting its innovative solutions for the automotive industry that are reported to enhance functionality and aesthetics in automotive engineering.

In its Performance Materials business sector, Merck offers a wide variety of materials for the automotive industry. The applications include materials for lighting systems, sunroofs, free-form displays and smart antennas, as well as coatings for interior and exterior applications. To give visitors an impression of the vast range of possibilities, a partial model of a virtual concept car will be exhibited at the Merck stand.

“With our products, we want to help automotive manufacturers and suppliers provide their customers with cutting-edge products and applications,” said Stefan Oschmann, chairman of the executive board and CEO of Merck.

Liquid crystal and OLED materials from Merck are an integral component of innovative lighting solutions. Headlights with liquid crystal shutters go one step further than conventional systems by adjusting the light distribution as needed in real time. The necessary displays with liquid crystals from Merck have a matrix of 100 x 300 pixels and permit fully adaptive light projection onto the road. Optimum road lighting in the dark improves traffic safety and makes driving a little easier. Individual areas can be blocked out, for instance when a vehicle is approaching from the opposite direction or headlights shine on highly reflective elements. New, highly complex functions such as projected navigation arrows are also possible. Hella, a lighting and electronic components expert, wants to bring this technology to the market together with Merck and other partners. OLED technology offers new types of advantages, which will be presented at the IAA in a partial model of the concept vehicle. Because the parts are lightweight and require little space, they allow rear lights in new forms, giving designers even greater possibilities.

In addition, liquid crystal and OLED materials from Merck permit free-form displays, which no longer have to be rectangular, thus paving the way for new interior designs. Not only can the shapes be designed more flexibly, but especially with OLEDs, the depth is also shallower, which expands the design possibilities even further. In addition, the technology permits particularly vivid contrasts, brilliant colours, sharp images, and pleasant readability.

Caption: Merck is a first-time exhibitor at IAA (photo: Merck)