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The whole pane or only an eye-level band? One switching area or independent zones? The frosted state obscures recognisable images while retaining diffused light.
Primary guide / switchable smart glass
Switchable smart glass. From a striking effect to a properly engineered system.
One action changes a pane from clear to frosted. Behind that simple gesture are decisions about technology, glass build-up, dimensions, wiring, controls and installation. This guide organises them before a specific product is selected.
- 2 statesclear and frosted
- bespokepane made for the project
- 1 systemglass, power and controls
Answer in brief
What is switchable smart glass?
DGF switchable smart glass is a laminated pane with an active PDLC layer. When the specified power is applied, liquid crystals align and the pane becomes clear. With power off, the crystals scatter light and the glass returns to a frosted state for visual privacy. It is not a blind, blackout system or standalone acoustic solution.
Starting point
Define the function before the glass variant.
“Smart glass” covers several technologies. DGF focuses on fast-switching PDLC glass for managing views and privacy. Its frosted state still transmits diffused light, so the space does not need to become closed and dark.
A sound decision starts with a simple question: which view should disappear, when and for whom? The answer determines whether the project needs a full pane, independent zones, colour, an opening window unit or extended controls. Without it, even striking technology remains an arbitrary extra.
Decision scope
Five decisions that define the solution.
Each affects manufacture or everyday operation and should not be postponed until installation day.
Glass build-up and size
Dimensions, shape, holes, glass type and active area must be approved before lamination. A finished active pane cannot simply be cut on site.
Edge and frame
The frame or frameless detail must accommodate the laminate build-up, tolerances, compatible edge-contact materials and clean concealment of the connection.
Power and wiring
The cable-exit edge, installation route and accessible power-supply location are defined before manufacture. Changes become expensive once ceilings and joinery are closed.
Control method
A simple local switch is often best. Remote, app, scenes or BMS integration add value when they shorten a real task and preserve local operation.
Decision matrix
Compare the DGF solution family.
The products are not a better-to-worse hierarchy. Each answers a different use scenario.
| Variant | Primary function | Controls | A strong starting point for |
|---|---|---|---|
| DGF Classic | The whole pane switches together | Switch, remote or automation | meeting rooms, private offices, partitions and bathrooms |
| DGF Segment | Independent zones in one pane | Channels and scenes matched to zones | projects with distinct sightlines |
| DGF Color | Privacy combined with material colour | As for an active pane, project-dependent | interiors where colour is part of the concept |
| Switchable window | Active function within a complete window | Local or integrated | window units requiring separate build-up analysis |
| DGF SUPLA | Scenes, schedules and remote operation | App with local operation retained | homes and projects requiring broader automation |
Sequence matters
From brief to commissioning.
The fewest problems arise when glass, framing and electrical work are coordinated as one scope.
- 01
Space review
A plan, photo, indicative size, required sightline and project stage are enough for an initial review.
- 02
Selection and detailing
We define the variant, active area, glass build-up, frame, cable, power supply and operation.
- 03
Manufacturing approval
Final dimensions, shape, holes and cable exit are approved before manufacture starts.
- 04
Installation and handover
After installation we verify both states, controls, edge finish and service access.
Next step
Continue with the decision you need to make.
FAQ
Questions worth resolving before a decision.
Is switchable smart glass completely transparent when on?
The clear state retains the characteristic haze of PDLC and should not be treated as identical to neutral glass. Perception depends on area, viewing angle and light, so a physical sample should be reviewed before approval.
Does the frosted state provide complete blackout?
No. The frosted state scatters light and obscures recognisable images but does not block all light. Blackout, solar control or a specified g-value must be designed separately.
What happens during a power cut?
In DGF PDLC solutions the pane returns to its frosted state. This default must be considered in the room scenario and in any backup-power design.
Can switchable glass be installed in an existing building?
Yes, if the existing structure, access, dimensions and power route allow it. Applied film can sometimes be the more appropriate retrofit route; the existing glazing must be assessed.
How much does switchable smart glass cost?
There is no single reliable square-metre price for a complete project. Format and build-up, pane quantity, processing, framing, wiring, controls, transport and installation all matter. An indicative size and photo are enough to begin.
A specific project