Honda Puts Finger on Sunscreen Tech

Honda Motor Co. has filed an application with the U.S. Patent Office for a touch-sensitive window shade.

The patent abstract describes the system as a dimming control device that includes a “transmittance changing part” that adjusts opaqueness. Media reports liken the technology to that used in self-darkening sunglasses and the "Smart Glass" sunroof on the Mercedes-Maybach S600 supercar.

The difference is that users would activate Honda's system by touching the glass and can even choose how much of the window to cover by sliding a finger across the desired area.