Drapes, venetian blinds, shades, other window coverings are a constant hassle, often cheap looking. Greased paper used to be used in America -- at least it had the charm of admitting light while being opaque.

"Shade glass" would have an electrochemical layer inside that could be made opaque by passing a tiny electrical current through it. You don't "pull the shades", just flip a switch.

Advance "shade glass" would color the light that enters (yellow, green, red, black) or be completely transparent. "Designer shade glass" would display art works, stained-glass effects, even allow fingerpainting... kids could make their own window design.

The current could be stored in tiny batteries charged by solar power, so shade glass could be used anywhere.
-- pitch, Jul 08 2000

Research Frontiers http://www.refr-spd.com
I wonder what it will look like when disrupted by an energy fluctuation. [reensure, Jul 08 2000]

(?) NAHB Research Center http://www.nahbrc.o...tracts/elecwin.html
Just some info...a search on "electrochromic windows" finds plenty. [bennie, Jul 08 2000, last modified Oct 21 2004]

Baked, to a point. No web link I could find...This goes from transparent to translucent white at the flip of a switch. Was on 'This Old House's Tuscon house.

LCD Privacy Glass Supplier: Architectural Glass and Glazing 1010 S. Plumer Ave, Tucson, AZ 87519 520-628-1355 Manufacturer: Marvin Windows & Doors PO Box 100, Warroad, MN 56763 800-328-0268
-- StarChaser, Jul 08 2000


Pitch - I apologize for not finding your suggestion before I posted my own. Virtually the same thing.
-- Mauidudi, Dec 05 2003



random, halfbakery