Tesla has recently obtained a patent for a new process of forming glass structures for use in automotive vehicles, specifically for creating curved feature lines in the glass. This new process is expected to be applied in the design of the company’s upcoming Cybertruck, which features a unique, angular design with sharp lines and edges.
Traditionally, creating curved glass for vehicles has been a difficult process. The process typically starts with a flat sheet of glass that is cut to the desired dimensions and then heated in an oven to achieve the desired shape. However, this process is limited by the amount of curvature that can be achieved with the glass. The new process described in this patent involves applying localized heat to specific locations on the glass structure, causing it to bend at those locations and create feature lines or bends with a radius of curvature between 2mm and 5cm.
This breakthrough in glass structures allows for the creation of the Cybertruck’s distinctive front windshield and side windows with sharp, defined feature lines. The process could also be used to create other unique designs for automotive vehicles, such as curved feature lines on the sides or rear of a vehicle. In addition to the process for forming the glass structures, the patent also includes various examples of glass structures that can be created using this method. One example is a multilayer glass structure that includes a second layer of glass that meets at the feature line or bend in the first layer of glass. A polymer may also be used between the two layers of glass for added strength and durability.
The use of this new process for forming glass structures not only allows for the creation of unique and innovative designs for automotive vehicles, but it also improves the overall performance of the vehicles by reducing wind resistance and increasing safety for the driver and passengers. With this new patent, Tesla is set to revolutionize the automotive industry with its sleek and futuristic design of the Cybertruck, utilizing this new process for creating curved feature lines in glass.
