法人別リリース

AGC to Exhibit at CES 2025: Showcasing Cutting-edge Materials and Solutions, ...

AGC — Mon, 09 Dec 2024 15:00:00 +0900

TOKYO, Dec. 9, 2024 /Kyodo JBN/ --
AGC Inc.
AGC to Exhibit at CES 2025: Showcasing Cutting-edge Materials and Solutions, Including World Premieres

AGC Inc., a Tokyo-based world-leading manufacturer of glass, chemicals and other high-tech materials, will be exhibiting at CES 2025, one of the world's largest technology trade shows, to be held in Las Vegas, USA, from January 7 to January 10, 2025.

Under the theme "Behind Every Breakthrough," the AGC Group will showcase cutting-edge materials and solutions in three areas: "Next-Gen Mobility," "Next-Gen Semiconductor," and "Next-Gen Energy." This marks the third consecutive year for the Group to participate in CES.

Image1:
https://cdn.kyodonewsprwire.jp/prwfile/release/M108477/202411280794/_prw_PI1fl_yEDKz162.jpg

Since its founding in 1907, AGC has grown from producing flat glass to providing a wide range of materials and solutions, including glass, electronics, chemicals, life sciences and ceramics, to meet society's evolving needs. At this exhibition, AGC will showcase its materials and solutions that support future breakthroughs. In particular, AGC’s M100/200 Series glass substrates for AR/MR glasses have won the CES 2025 Innovation Awards (R)*. For more information, please see ( https://www.agc.com/en/news/detail/1207806_2814.html ).

"We are excited to announce that AGC will be exhibiting at CES 2025," said Yoshinori Hirai, CEO. "At the foundation of innovation lies superior materials, which continuously evolve to support and accelerate breakthroughs. The AGC Group, under our brand statement 'Your Dreams, Our Challenge,' aims to be an excellent company that supports and grows alongside those who strive to make the world a better place. We invite you to visit our booth and experience the materials and solutions of the future."

AGC Group’s Exhibition Overview
- Exhibition Location: Las Vegas Convention Center (LVCC), West Hall, Booth #6466
- Exhibition Period: January 7 (Tue.) to January 10 (Fri.), 2025, 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM (local time)

Main Exhibits
- Next-Gen Mobility
Image2: Cockpit Demonstrator (scheduled to be showcased at CES 2025)
https://cdn.kyodonewsprwire.jp/prwfile/release/M108477/202411280794/_prw_PI2fl_10llZ5m3.jpg

To achieve safer and more comfortable mobility, the cockpit serves as a crucial interface, requiring advancements in UI and UX. Experience the future cockpit where the texture, aesthetics, and functionality of glass are seamlessly integrated. Key exhibits include the "Next-Gen HUD," which contributes to safety and advanced design, and the "Curved Dual Displays with thin and narrow bezel," which offers superior design and cohesive integration with displays.

- Next-Gen Semiconductor
Image3: Through Glass Vias
https://cdn.kyodonewsprwire.jp/prwfile/release/M108477/202411280794/_prw_PI3fl_M5Ua6kuS.jpg

The AGC Group develops, produces, and sells essential materials for cutting-edge semiconductor manufacturing, including EUV photomask blanks and ceria slurry for semiconductor CMP process. Its glass core substrates for next-generation semiconductor packages are expected to contribute to the realization of even higher integration and performance in semiconductors due to the excellent rigidity, flatness and micro-processability of glass.

- Next-Gen Energy
Image4: FORBLUE (TM) S-SERIES
https://cdn.kyodonewsprwire.jp/prwfile/release/M108477/202411280794/_prw_PI4fl_Lpc2N8P5.jpg

The AGC Group is committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions throughout society by developing environmentally friendly products and technologies. "FORBLUE (TM) S-SERIES" is a fluorinated ion exchange membrane suitable for the production of green hydrogen using renewable, albeit volatile, energy sources such as solar power.

For more information about all exhibited materials & solutions: https://kyodonewsprwire.jp/attach/202411280794-O1-7SP0RDSj.pdf

AGC booth (image for illustrative purposes only): https://cdn.kyodonewsprwire.jp/prwfile/release/M108477/202411280794/_prw_PI5fl_qbh0E8kH.jpg

Note
*The CES Innovation Awards are based upon descriptive materials submitted to the judges. The Consumer Technology Association (CTA) (R) did not verify the accuracy of any submission or of any claims made and did not test the item to which the award was given.

Reference
CES - The Most Powerful Tech Event in the World: https://www.ces.tech/
CES Innovation Awards Program: https://www.ces.tech/innovation-awards/innovation-awards/

About AGC
AGC Inc. is the parent company of the AGC Group, a world-leading glass solution provider and supplier of flat, automotive and display glass, chemicals, ceramics and other high-tech materials and components. Based on more than a century of technical innovation, the AGC Group has developed a wide range of cutting-edge products. The AGC Group employs some 56,000 people worldwide and generates annual sales of approximately 2.0 trillion Japanese yen through business in about 30 countries.

For more information, please visit https://www.agc.com/en/index.html

AGC’s Digital Curtain (TM) Light Control Glass Adopted for Toyota’s "Century"

AGC — Tue, 12 Sep 2023 15:00:00 +0900

TOKYO, Sept. 12, 2023 /Kyodo JBN/ --
AGC Inc.
AGC Inc. headquartered in Tokyo, a world-leading manufacturer of glass, chemicals, and high-tech materials, announced on September 12 that its Digital Curtain (TM) (*1) light control glass has been adopted for Toyota’s new Century luxury model, which will be launched in 2023. The adoption of Digital Curtain (TM) in the rear seats allows for instantaneous control of light transmission and visibility, thus contributing to a spacious and comfortable cabin interior. This is the first time in the world (*2) for light control glass to be adopted for car door sections.

Logo: https://kyodonewsprwire.jp/img/202309079119-O1-RB8Q17PT

Image1: Century, a new model to be released by Toyota
https://cdn.kyodonewsprwire.jp/prwfile/release/M000303/202309079119/_prw_PI5lg_8mr1KoOc.jpg

Digital Curtain (TM) is a type of light control glass that reduces the heat and glare of the sunlight and ensures privacy in the dimmed mode (opaque state), while delivering a sense of openness in the transmissive mode (clear state). Until now, light control glass has been used as fixed windows, such as panoramic roofs. The new Digital Curtain (TM) has achieved not only chemical durability to withstand long-term exposure to wind, rain and sunlight, but also mechanical durability for opening, closing, raising and lowering. Additionally, the black ceramic design around the window glass was made as thin and neat as possible, which was highly evaluated as a door design befitting the prestige of the Century and led to the world’s first use of light control glass in the rear door section.

The Digital Curtain (TM) eliminates the need for shades and provides a larger, more advanced and comfortable rear seating space, as well as increased privacy.

Overview of Digital Curtain (TM) light control glass
- Structure
Image2: https://kyodonewsprwire.jp/img/202309079119-O3-AkPf97PQ

Digital Curtain (TM) light control glass consists of laminated glass with a special film sandwiched between two sheets of glass, which contains a special material so small that it is invisible to the eye. It reduces UV rays by approximately 99% (*3) in both dimmed and transmissive modes.

- Mechanism
Image3: https://cdn.kyodonewsprwire.jp/prwfile/release/M000303/202309079119/_prw_PI4fl_c7OqEYe5.jpg

Voltage is used to control the distribution and orientation of the special material in the film encapsulated between the interlayers in laminated glass, enabling instantaneous switching between the dimmed and transmissive mode.

Notes:
(*1) The AGC Group’s product line of light control glass products for automotive applications
(*2) Based on AGC research. This is the first time in the world that light control glass with laminated glass specification is used in door sections.
(*3) ISO9050 standard

As the functions required of automotive glass become more sophisticated and diverse, the AGC Group will contribute to the realization of a new mobility society by providing optimal materials and solutions.

AGCの調光ガラス Digital Curtain®がトヨタ自動車株式会社の「センチュリー」に採用

AGC — Fri, 08 Sep 2023 11:00:00 +0900

2023年９月8日

AGCの調光ガラス Digital Curtain®がトヨタ自動車株式会社の「センチュリー」に採用

トヨタ自動車株式会社から発売される新型「センチュリー」

　AGC （AGC 株式会社、本社：東京、社長：平井良典）の調光ガラス　Digital Curtain ®*1 が、2023 年中にトヨタ自動車株式会社から発売される「センチュリー」に採用されました。透過光と視界を瞬時に制御できるDigital Curtain ® を後部座席に使用することで、広く快適な車内空間の実現に貢献しています。なお、調光ガラスの車ドア部位への採用は、世界初 *2 となります。

　今般採用されたDigital Curtain®は、調光モード（不透明な状態）では日差しの暑さ・眩しさを和らげるとともにプライバシーを確保し、透過モード（クリアな状態）では開放感を楽しむことのできる調光ガラスです。これまで調光ガラスはパノラマルーフなど開閉しない部位に採用されていました。今回のDigital Curtain®は、長期間の風雨や太陽光に耐えられる化学耐久性に加え、開閉や昇降などの機械的耐久性も実現しました。さらに窓ガラス周辺の黒セラミックデザインを可能な限り細くすっきりと造ることで、「センチュリー」の格調高い意匠性に相応しいドアデザインとして評価され、世界初となる調光ガラスの後部ドア部位への採用に至りました。
　Digital Curtain®の採用により、シェードは不要となり、より広く、先進的で快適な後部座席空間が実現するとともに、プライバシー性も向上します。

　自動車用ガラスに求められる機能が高度化・多様化する中、AGCグループは最適な素材・ソリューションの提供を通じ、新たなモビリティ社会の実現に貢献していきます。

＊1 当社の自動車向けの調光ガラス商品群のグループブランド。
＊2 当社調べ。ドア部位に合わせガラス仕様の調光ガラスが採用されることは世界初。

■調光ガラス Digital Curtain® の概要
＜構造＞

調光ガラスDigital Curtain®は、2枚のガラスの間に特殊なフィルムを挟み込む合わせガラスの構造になっており、フィルム中には目に見えないほどの小さな特殊材料が封入されています。
調光モード、透過モードのどちらの場合も紫外線を約99%カット＊3します。
＊3 ISO9050基準

＜調光の仕組み＞
2枚のガラスの間に挟み込んだ、フィルム中の特殊材料の分散と配向を電圧でコントロールすることで、調光モード・透過モードを瞬時に切り替えられます。

・調光モード（スイッチオフの不透明な状態）

特殊材料がランダムに並んでいるため、外からの光が散乱し、ガラスは不透明になり、眩しさ・暑さを低減し、プライバシーも確保します。

・透過モード（スイッチオンのクリアな状態）

フィルム内に電圧を加え、特殊材料を同じ向きに整列させることでガラスは透明になり、外からの光が透過します。

AGC Si-Tech to Increase Production Capacity of RESIFA (TM) SUNSPHERE (TM), Cosmetic Silica Material

AGC — Thu, 13 Jul 2023 15:00:00 +0900

TOKYO, July 13, 2023 /Kyodo JBN/ --
AGC Inc.
AGC Inc., a Tokyo-based world-leading manufacturer of glass, chemicals, and high-tech materials, has announced that its 100% subsidiary AGC Si-Tech Co., Ltd., headquartered in Wakamatsu Ward, Kitakyushu City, will increase its production capacity of RESIFA (TM) SUNSPHERE (TM), a silica product that is an eco-friendly cosmetic material made from natural sources. At the Company's Wakamatsu Plant in the ward, facility expansion will be implemented to increase production capacity approximately 50% from the current level. Operations are scheduled to begin in the second quarter of 2025.

Logo: https://kyodonewsprwire.jp/img/202307107014-O1-fb9bx98Y

AGC Si-Tech headquarters: https://kyodonewsprwire.jp/img/202307107014-O2-R78coU9q

SUNSPHERE (TM), spherical, agglomerate-free silica powder: https://kyodonewsprwire.jp/img/202307107014-O3-471v2vb7

RESIFA (TM) SUNSPHERE (TM) is a cosmetic material made from natural silica processed into a spherical shape using the Company’s unique manufacturing process. The product has been used by cosmetic manufacturers worldwide since its launch in 1990. It is highly regarded for its ability to add various functions to cosmetics, including improved stickiness, blurring effects such as on wrinkles and blemishes due to its light-scattering function, and giving light and smooth feeling to cosmetics, as well as the stable supply of high-quality silica products delivered over many years.

The global cosmetics market is expected to grow over 4% per year*, driven by population growth and growing awareness of skincare. In recent years, growing concerns regarding the marine ecosystem have spurred an increasing number of inquiries for SUNSPHERE (TM), a naturally derived and highly safe cosmetic material, as an eco-friendly alternative to microplastics. AGC Si-Tech has decided to increase the capacity of SUNSPHERE (TM) to address this strong demand. The Company is also considering further expansion in the future.
*Based on AGC Group’s estimates

The AGC Group has set "promoting sustainability management" as one of the key strategies in its medium-term management plan, "AGC plus-2023," and is committed to contributing to solving social issues through materials innovation. The Group will continue contributing to realizing a sustainable global environment through the expansion of silica products that help to reduce environmental risk.

Reference
For more information on SUNSPHERE (TM), visit: http://www.agc-sitech.com/en/product/sunsphere.html

AGC Develops Anti-Glare Glass for 4K HD Displays

AGC — Tue, 13 Dec 2022 15:00:00 +0900

TOKYO, Dec. 13, 2022 /Kyodo JBN/ --
AGC Inc.
AGC Inc., a Tokyo-based world-leading manufacturer of glass, chemicals and high-tech materials, announced on December 13 that it has developed anti-glare (AG) glass for 4K high-definition displays. The new AG glass reduces glare (random unevenness on a screen caused by optical factors) by approximately 30% while suppressing light reflection. The product will be launched in the first half of 2023, with the aim of adoption in notebook PCs and other devices equipped with 4K HD displays.

Logo: https://kyodonewsprwire.jp/img/202212070890-O1-TIq0HV27

Image1: Visibility comparison
https://kyodonewsprwire.jp/prwfile/release/M000303/202212070890/_prw_PI3lg_YUZ3YSFK.jpg

Image2: Comparison of glare characteristics
https://kyodonewsprwire.jp/img/202212070890-O2-i2Sn9YKL

AG glass reduces eye fatigue by adding unevenness to the glass surface to reduce reflections, and is mainly used as cover glass for displays installed in PCs, tablets, and other products. In product development, it is extremely difficult to satisfy all three optical characteristics of anti-reflectiveness (suppression of light reflection), clarity (clear images), and anti-glare property (suppression of random unevenness on the screen). Especially with HD displays, optical interference with the LCD panel becomes stronger and causes glare to worsen. Overcoming this problem is a challenge.

AGC has now developed a new type of AG glass with more uniform unevenness on the glass surface through a special mechanical process. While maintaining the same level of anti-reflective performance as its conventional products, reducing glare has been an issue, but this new glass cuts glare by approximately 30% and reduces eye discomfort when viewing HD displays.

The new AG glass will be exhibited at AGC's booth at CES 2023, one of the world's largest technology and innovation trade fairs, to be held in Las Vegas, the U.S., on January 5-8, 2023. Please see the following press release for details of AGC's other exhibits at CES.
"AGC to Exhibit Next-generation Mobility-enabling Products & Technologies at CES2023": https://www.agc.com/en/news/pdf/20221208e.pdf

Reference
- AGC's anti-glare glass
Glass thickness: 0.4 mm - 2.0 mm
Glass size: Max 730 mm x 920 mm
Other specifications: Chemically tempered glass specifications are also available (offered in the Dragontrail (R) series).
Contact form for technical inquiries: https://contact.agc.com/webapp/form/17985_tpab_62/index.do

- Glare vs anti-glare: https://kyodonewsprwire.jp/attach/202212070890-O1-UTIS1970.pdf

AGC Obtains Its First Environmental Product Declaration for Architectural Glass Products

AGC — Tue, 11 Oct 2022 15:00:00 +0900

TOKYO, Oct. 11, 2022 /Kyodo JBN/ --
AGC Inc.
AGC Inc. (hereinafter "AGC"), headquartered in Tokyo, has announced the acquisition of its first Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) for float glass manufactured at its two Asian plants, PT Asahimas Flat Glass Tbk (*1) (headquartered in Indonesia) and AGC Flat Glass (Thailand) Plc. (headquartered in Thailand). This is the first EPD attained by the AGC Group for the architectural glass manufactured in the Asia-Pacific region (*2).

Logo: https://kyodonewsprwire.jp/img/202210047629-O1-xg94sU3n

EPD: https://ecoleaf-label.jp/pdf_view.php?uuid=ec3052ba-dff5-4cbe-b1ea-7155c94ab795.pdf&filename=JR-BS-22001E_ENG.pdf

The EPD obtained by AGC discloses the environmental impact of the production stage for architectural glass, and it benefits owners, architects, specifiers, and building professionals by enabling to evaluate the environmental impacts associated with building materials.

The EPD is a type III environmental declaration which is compliant with the ISO 14025 standard and verified by the Sustainable Management Promotion Organization’s (SuMPO) Japan EPD Program. The environmental declaration also meets the requirements of the government’s building regulations, as well as contributing to earning points for obtaining green building scheme certifications, since green building rating systems (*3) award credits for building projects that use EPD-certified materials.

The AGC Group will utilize this EPD to contribute to green purchasing and procurement in the construction industry in Asia. The company will also widen its EPD coverage to high-performance glass products, such as coated glass, double glazing units and decorative glass manufactured at Asian plants.

The AGC Group has set the "promotion of sustainability management" as one of the priority issues in its medium-term management plan "AGC plus-2023," and has set a target of achieving net zero GHG emissions from its business activities by 2050. The AGC Group will continue to contribute to the realization of a sustainable global environment by reducing GHG emissions and supplying products and technologies that contribute to energy conservation and energy creation.

Notes:
(*1) PT Asahimas Flat Glass Tbk is part of the global AGC group. Asahimas Flat Glass was established as a joint venture in 1973 between Asahi Glass Co., Ltd. (now AGC Inc.) and PT Rodamas (Indonesian distributor of glass and related customer goods).

(*2) AGC Glass Asia Pacific leads the sales and marketing activities of architectural, interior, automotive, industrial and smart glass products for the Asia-Pacific region. It is part of the Architectural Glass Asia Pacific Company, AGC Inc., headquartered in Japan, and its regional headquarters in Singapore was established in 2013. For more information about AGC Glass Asia Pacific’s sustainability initiatives, visit https://agc-glassasia.com

(*3) LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) rating system by U.S. Green Building Council and Green Mark Certification Scheme by Singapore Building and Construction Authority are examples of green building rating systems.

AGC’s Light-control Panoramic Roof with Low-E Coating Adopted in LEXUS RZ,

AGC — Wed, 11 May 2022 15:00:00 +0900

TOKYO, May 11, 2022 /Kyodo JBN/ --
AGC Inc.
AGC Inc., a Tokyo-based world-leading manufacturer of glass, chemicals and high-tech materials, has developed a light-control panoramic roof with Low-E coating, which has been adopted for the LEXUS RZ, a dedicated BEV (*1) model to be launched by Toyota Motor Corporation in the second half of 2022. The use of Low-E glass (*2) with high solar control and heat-insulating performance allows the panoramic roof to provide both an open cabin environment and a comfortable cabin temperature, while the elimination of a sunshade contributes to a lighter body.

Logo: https://kyodonewsprwire.jp/img/202204280623-O4-l94TEIie

- LEXUS RZ, a dedicated BEV model released by Toyota: https://kyodonewsprwire.jp/prwfile/release/M000303/202204280623/_prw_PI1fl_o6hgD8Xg.jpg

- Shade-less panoramic roof
Dimmed mode of dimming glass: https://kyodonewsprwire.jp/img/202204280623-O2-435YeBbA

Transparent mode of dimming glass: https://kyodonewsprwire.jp/img/202204280623-O3-zBopkiYe

While conventional panoramic roofs let in light and create an open interior space, they are susceptible to solar heat and outside temperature, requiring sunshades to keep the cabin comfortable and preventing occupants from fully enjoying the open feeling due to heat and cold issues.

The special Low-E coating technology developed by AGC recently for automotive glass has cleared the reliability evaluation required for the LEXUS brand, which pursues high quality and advanced features. It has also achieved unprecedented solar control and heat-insulation performance, thereby greatly reducing heat in summer and cold in winter, which had been an issue. The shade-less configuration also contributes to vehicle weight reduction and head clearance (the distance from the top of the head to the ceiling when seated).

Furthermore, a light-control type is also available to instantly control the transmitted light and adjust the light environment inside the cabin, providing new enjoyment, comfort, and experiential value to the LEXUS brand in the new era.

The AGC Group has positioned the mobility business as a strategic business under its medium-term management plan "AGC plus-2023." AGC will contribute to the realization of new mobility and a sustainable society by providing optimal materials and solutions as the functions required of automotive glass diversify with the advancement of CASE.

Notes:
(*1) BEV: Abbreviation for Battery Electric Vehicle
(*2) Low-E glass: Abbreviation for low emissivity glass. Glass coated with a special metallic film reduces heat transfer by radiation and has high solar control and heat-insulating performance.

- Reference: Technical Overview
Special Low-E coating for automotive glass:
https://kyodonewsprwire.jp/attach/202204280623-O3-koAzRVif.pdf

Light Control Glass “WONDERLITE (TM) Dx"
https://kyodonewsprwire.jp/attach/202204280623-O2-Ivqk20yj.pdf

ＡＧＣのLow-Eコート付き調光パノラマルーフがトヨタ自動車株式会社 LEXUS初のBEV専用モデル「RZ」に採用

AGC — Wed, 11 May 2022 11:00:00 +0900

2022 年 5月 11 日
ＡＧＣのLow-Eコート付き調光パノラマルーフがトヨタ自動車株式会社 LEXUS初のBEV専用モデル「RZ」に採用

ＡＧＣ（ＡＧＣ株式会社、本社：東京、社長：平井良典）が開発したLow-Eコート付き調光パノラマルーフが、2022年後半にトヨタ自動車株式会社から発売されるBEV*1専用モデル　LEXUS RZに採用されました。高い遮熱・断熱性能を持つLow-Eガラス*2の使用により、パノラマルーフの開放的な車内環境と、快適な車内温度を両立させるとともに、サンシェードを廃止することによる車体の軽量化にも貢献しています。

左写真：トヨタ自動車株式会社から発売されるBEV専用モデル　LEXUS RZ右写真：シェードレスのパノラマルーフ（写真は調光ガラスの調光/透過モード）

従来のパノラマルーフは、光を取り込み開放的な車内空間を実現する一方、日射熱や外気の影響を受けやすいことから、車内を快適に保つためにサンシェードを必要とし、暑さ寒さの問題から開放感を満喫できない課題がありました。

今般当社が開発した車載用特殊Low-Eコート技術は、高い品質と先進性を追求するLEXUSブランドに要求される信頼性評価をクリアし、今までにない遮熱・断熱性能を実現することで、課題だった夏の暑さ・冬の寒さを大きく抑制しました。またシェードレス設定を可能にすることにより、車体の軽量化やヘッドクリアランス（座席に座った際の頭頂部から天井までの距離）の確保にも寄与しています。

さらに、瞬時に透過光を制御し車内の光環境を調整可能な調光タイプもご用意し、新時代のLEXUSに新しい楽しさ、快適さ、体験価値を提供します。

AGCグループは、中期経営計画 AGC plus-2023 のもと、モビリティ事業を戦略事業と位置付けています。CASEの進展に伴い、自動車用ガラスに求められる機能が多様化する中、最適な素材・ソリューションの提供を通じ、新たなモビリティとサステナブルな社会の実現に貢献していきます。

*1 BEV：Battery Electric Vehicle（電気自動車）の略称
*2 Low-Eガラス：Low emissivity (低放射) ガラスの略称。特殊な金属膜をコートすることで放射による伝熱が抑えられ、遮熱・断熱性能が高いガラス

【ご参考：技術説明】
＜車載用特殊Low-Eコート＞

夏は涼しく（遮熱）

冬は暖かく（断熱）

*3　当社測定値であり、保証値ではありません。

＜調光ガラスWONDERLITE® Dx＞
2枚のガラスの間に挟み込んだフィルム中の特殊材料の分散⇔配向を電圧でコントロールすることで、調光モード⇔透過モードを瞬時に切り替えられます。

調光モード（スイッチオフの不透明な状態）

特殊材料がランダムに並んでいるため、
外からの光が散乱されガラスは不透明になり、眩しさを低減します。

透過モード（スイッチオンのクリアな状態）

フィルム内に電圧を加えると、特殊材料は同じ向きに整列し、
外からの光を通すのでガラスは透明になり、開放感のある空間を楽しめます。

AGC to Expand Synthetic Pharmaceutical Production Base in Spain

AGC — Fri, 08 Apr 2022 15:00:00 +0900

TOKYO, Apr. 8, 2022 /Kyodo JBN/ --
AGC Inc.
AGC Inc. (hereinafter “AGC”), a Tokyo-based world-leading manufacturer of glass, chemicals, high-tech materials, has decided to expand the facilities of AGC Pharma Chemicals Europe S.L.U. (hereinafter “APCE”), an AGC subsidiary in Spain engaged in the synthetic pharmaceutical (*1) CDMO (*2) business. A new building with a total floor area of 7,500 m2 will be constructed on the company's site, increasing the current production capacity by 30%. The new facility is scheduled to start operation in the first half of 2024, with an estimated total investment of approximately 100 million US dollars.

Logo: https://kyodonewsprwire.jp/img/202204069676-O4-4c6L4e5q

Photo: Site scheduled for expansion (yellow-boxed area)
https://kyodonewsprwire.jp/img/202204069676-O2-1q1wYYTZ

Reference:
AGC Group’s CDMO business locations
https://kyodonewsprwire.jp/prwfile/release/M000303/202204069676/_prw_PI3fl_7TTl7l2b.jpg

Based on its long history and extensive track record, APCE has incorporated AGC's long-accumulated chemical synthesis technologies, including knowledge of handling fluorine, and the company's number of contracts is growing faster than the synthetic pharmaceutical CDMO market, which is growing over 7% or more annually. To meet this strong demand, AGC has decided to further expand the capacity of this site, in addition to the 30% facility expansion ( https://www.agc.com/en/news/detail/1200616_2814.html ) announced in April 2020. This expansion will include the introduction of facilities for highly potent active pharmaceutical ingredients (HPAPI) (*3), such as cancer therapy drugs, for which demand has been increasing in recent years. Furthermore, AGC will consider additional capacity expansion in the near future since the newly constructed building has additional room for further expansion.

Under its medium-term management plan "AGC plus-2023," the AGC Group has positioned its life science business, including its synthetic agrochemical/pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical CDMO services, as one of its strategic businesses. The Group aims to expand its sales of the life science business from 44.9 billion yen in 2018 to 135 billion yen in 2022 and 200 billion yen or more in 2025. This investment follows AGC Wakasa Chemical's facility expansion in November 2021 ( https://www.agc.com/en/news/detail/1202588_2814.html ), and the company will continue to make aggressive acquisitions and capital investments in both its synthetic agrochemical/pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical CDMO business. The AGC Group will work to provide its customers in each region with globally unified high-quality services, contributing to the well-being of patients and the wider society as a whole.

Notes
(*1) Synthetic pharmaceuticals: Pharmaceuticals manufactured through chemical synthesis, small-molecule pharmaceuticals.
(*2) CDMO: Contract Development & Manufacturing Organization. A company which is contracted on behalf of another company to provide product manufacturing services as well as the development of manufacturing processes.
(*3) Can handle up to OEB4 (1-10 microgram/m3)

AGCのガラス製透明スクリーンGlasceneが車窓モビリティサイネージサービスに採用

AGC — Wed, 17 Mar 2021 15:30:00 +0900

2021年3月17日
ＡＧＣ株式会社　
　2021年3月17日

ＡＧＣのガラス製透明スクリーンGlascene®が車窓モビリティサイネージサービスに採用

ＡＧＣ（ＡＧＣ株式会社、本社：東京、社長：平井良典）のガラス製透明スクリーンGlascene®が、株式会社ニューステクノロジーとS.RIDE株式会社が本年6月より開始予定のタクシー車窓モビリティサイネージサービス「THE TOKYO MOBILITY GALLERY Canvas」に採用されました。本製品は、プロジェクターの映像を投影できるガラス製透明スクリーンです。映像を投影していない時は透明な窓ガラスですが、投影時はクリアな映像を映し出すことができます。

ＡＧＣのガラス製透明スクリーンGlascene®は、特殊なスクリーンフィルムを、2枚のガラスで挟み込んだ合わせガラス構造です。これまで主に商業施設や店舗、ショールームの窓ガラスとして映像演出用途に採用されています。
今回採用される「THE TOKYO MOBILITY GALLERY Canvas」では、タクシーの空車時間を活用し、サイドガラスに広告を投影することで、自動車用窓ガラスが新たな情報発信源として活躍します。自動車用窓ガラスとして求められる安全性・耐久性を確保しながら、高コントラストな広告を投影することが可能です。

AGCグループは、経営方針AGC plus 2.0の下、お客様に「新たな価値・機能」を、プラスする製品づくりに取り組んでいます。今後もお客様に満足頂ける、新たな価値をプラスした製品をご提供できるよう技術革新を進めていきます。

＜ご参考＞
■Glascene®について■
プ
ロジェクターと組み合わせて映像を投影できるガラス製透明スクリーンです。ヘイズ（曇り度）と透過性が高いレベルでバランスしており、映像をプロジェクター側から見るタイプ（フロントタイプ）とプロジェクターの反対側から見るタイプ（リアタイプ）を品揃え、適用シーン・周囲環境に応じて最適なタイプをお選び頂けます。
　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　投影前　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　投影後

■「THE TOKYO MOBILITY GALLERY Canvas」について■
東京都内最大級のモビリティメディア「THE TOKYO TAXI VISION GROWTH」を運営する株式会社ニューステクノロジー(本社：東京都港区)とタクシー配車アプリ「S.RIDE」を運営するソニーグループのS.RIDE株式会社（本社：東京都台東区）が、「東京に新たなギャラリーを。」をコンセプトに、東京都内を走行するタクシー車両の空車時間を活用してサイドガラスに広告を映し出すタクシー車窓モビリティサイネージサービスです。サービス開始は2021年6月を予定しています。
本件のお問合せ先：
株式会社ニューステクノロジー（https://growth-tokyo.jp/news/）
　　S.RIDE株式会社（https://www.sride.jp/jp/list/20210317）
以上

AGC Develops Glass Package for Edge-emitting Laser Diodes

AGC — Mon, 07 Dec 2020 15:00:00 +0900

TOKYO, Dec. 7, 2020 /Kyodo JBN/ --
AGC Inc.
AGC Develops Glass Package for Edge-emitting Laser Diodes
- Helping Customers Simplify Their Manufacturing Processes and Extend Life of Laser Products -

AGC Inc., a Tokyo-based world-leading manufacturer of glass, chemicals and high-tech materials, has announced the development of a glass package that is ideal for encapsulating edge-emitting laser diode (LD) chips (Fig. 1). Since both sides of this product are polished surfaces, the light emitted from the LD chip can be efficiently extracted without additional parts such as a prism mirror. In addition, by adding proprietary solder for hermetic sealing developed by AGC, the product simplifies customers' manufacturing process and contributes to extending the life of their laser products. This glass package is currently in the prototyping phase and AGC is aiming for mass production.

Logo: https://kyodonewsprwire.jp/img/202012027992-O1-imkkYVmb

Photo: https://kyodonewsprwire.jp/prwfile/release/M000303/202012027992/_prw_PI2fl_22MDoU5u.jpg

Fig. 1: Newly developed product
https://kyodonewsprwire.jp/prwfile/release/M000303/202012027992/_prw_PI3fl_E7SM6NeA.jpg

Most of the current LD chips are "edge-emitting types." Besides, most of the package has a window only on the top face. So a separate prism mirror is necessary to extract light from the LD chip upward, making it difficult to reduce costs and minimize the package ((1) in Fig. 2). Another current solution is to bond the polished window on the side hole of the package. Since bonded with a sealing material, it is difficult to attach the window at the precisely right angle so as to project light in the target direction ((2) in Fig. 2).

Fig. 2 (1) (2): Current product
https://kyodonewsprwire.jp/prwfile/release/M000303/202012027992/_prw_PI4fl_WdT722d2.jpg

AGC has developed a new glass package to help resolve these issues (Fig. 1). This product is box-shaped with an aperture on one side and has the following advantages.

- Without additional parts or bonding mirror surface windows, the emitted light is led to a designed optical path without refracting.
- Excellent air tightness because windows are integrated without using any sealing material.
- Since the opposite surface of the polished window is also transparent, the user can see and check the inside of the package even after sealed.

Furthermore, by adding proprietary solder for hermetic sealing developed by AGC to the frame surface of the aperture, the process of sealing with the ceramic substrate can be completed simply by heating and pressing in the air. This eliminates the need for large-scale deoxidization equipment for the customer. In addition, this proprietary solder is soft enough to reduce the thermal stress generated due to a difference of CTE between the package and window. This helps to prevent deterioration in airtightness from cracks at the interface after thermal cycle testing. As a result, this also contributes to extending the life of the laser package.

AGC’s Fluon (R) ETFE Film Adopted at SoFi Stadium in U.S.

AGC — Mon, 30 Nov 2020 16:00:00 +0900

TOKYO, Nov. 30, 2020/Kyodo JBN/--
AGC’s Fluon (R) ETFE Film Adopted at SoFi Stadium in U.S.
-Creating Comfortable Environment for Audience with View of Clear Blue Sky-

AGC Inc., a Tokyo-based world-leading manufacturer of glass, chemicals and high-tech materials, has announced that its Fluon (R) ETFE fluoropolymer film has been installed on the roof of SoFi Stadium (Los Angeles County, capacity: 70,240) in the United States.

Logo: https://kyodonewsprwire.jp/img/202011267715-O1-0GKm1t9F

Photo1: Exterior of the Stadium / Photo courtesy of FabriTec Structures LLC https://kyodonewsprwire.jp/prwfile/release/M000303/202011267715/_prw_PI3fl_x5Uk58Tz.jpg

Photo2: Interior of the Stadium / Photo courtesy of FabriTec Structures LLC https://kyodonewsprwire.jp/prwfile/release/M000303/202011267715/_prw_PI2fl_pJa2YUi7.jpg
(For Photo1 and 2, please publish a copyright notice “Photo courtesy of FabriTec Structures LLC,” when using the photo.)

Photo3: Fluon (R) ETFE film
https://kyodonewsprwire.jp/prwfile/release/M000303/202011267715/_prw_PI4fl_e1M1V2F5.jpg
(Please publish a copyright notice “Photo courtesy of AGC Inc.,” when using the photo.)
https://www.agcchem.com/products/specialty-materials/fluonetfe-film/

Opened in September 2020, SoFi Stadium is home to two NFL teams, the Los Angeles Chargers and the Los Angeles Rams, and is scheduled to host major international sports events. SoFi Stadium is designed to offer open air, with three venues covered by one giant roof. With a roof area of 75,000 m2, SoFi Stadium is the largest stadium in the world installing a single-layer film as a complete roof system.

Fluon (R) ETFE film, a light-transmissive film developed and produced by AGC, is used in the cable net roof system. The single-layer membrane structure of Fluon (R) ETFE film creates a comfortable environment for the audience with a view of a clear blue sky. In addition, a highly reflective ink printing process (*) with long-term weatherability developed with proprietary AGC technology has been applied to achieve thermal insulation, creating a comfortable environment for the audience in the stadium.

Fluon (R) ETFE film used in this stadium has been produced by AGC in an integrated manner from the raw material stage since its launch in 1976. Fluon (R) ETFE film is characterized by excellent heat and weather resistance, as well as optical transparency. It is used as a highly functional material in a wide range of fields, including electronics, aircraft, aerospace, and solar cells. It is also used in the construction of large sports stadiums and green houses with membrane structures. Under its “AGC plus” management policy, the AGC Group is working to create products that add a “plus” by providing “safety, security and comfort” to society and “new value and functions” for customers.

Note:
(*) highly reflective ink printing: Ink technology used in this printing developed by AGC is patented in the United States.

REFERENCE
-Overview of SoFi Stadium
Location: Inglewood, California, United States
Start of construction: November 17, 2016
Completion of construction: September 8, 2020
Design: HKS, Inc.
Structural design: Walter P Moore Engineers and Consultants
Project manager: Legends Global Planning
General contractor: Turner/Hunt JV
Construction cost: USD5-6 billion (estimated, including development costs)
Capacity: 70,240 (expandable to 100,240 for large events)
SoFi Stadium website: https://www.sofistadium.com/

Source: AGC Inc.

AGC’s Curved Large Cover Glass for Car-mounted Displays Used in New 2021 Cadillac Escalade

AGC — Thu, 10 Sep 2020 15:00:00 +0900

TOKYO,Sept. 10,2020 /Kyodo JBN/ --
AGC Inc.
AGC’s Curved Large Cover Glass for Car-mounted Displays Used in New 2021 Cadillac Escalade
- World’s First Adoption for In-vehicle Curved P-OLED Display -

AGC Inc., based in Tokyo, has announced that its curved large cover glass for car-mounted displays has been used in Cadillac's Luxury SUV, the new 2021 Escalade model.

AGC’s product comprises Dragontrail (TM), a type of specialty glass highly receptive to chemical strengthening that has been enhanced with chemical reinforcement treatment, optical thin coating, decorative printing, and curved shaping. It has been used as the protective surface glass for the industry’s first curved P-OLED (Plastic OLED) display supplied by LG Electronics and LG Display, LG’s display maker which started mass production of P-OLED earlier this year.

(Logo: https://kyodonewsprwire.jp/img/202008273541-O1-B6CLV77C)

(Image1: https://kyodonewsprwire.jp/prwfile/release/M000303/202008273541/_prw_PI2fl_9BdAM00x.jpg)

(Image2: https://kyodonewsprwire.jp/prwfile/release/M000303/202008273541/_prw_PI3fl_v7sm3oBa.jpg)

The new 2021 Cadillac Escalade features the first-ever curved OLED display in a mass-production vehicle. This innovatively designed display comprises three separate screens, which show various kinds of information for drivers such as meter cluster information, navigation content, and infotainment. Also, two pieces of AGC's curved cover glass for car-mounted displays help to integrate these three screens as a one-piece 38-inch huge display system, and dedicated to the high-quality and advanced interior design for the new Cadillac Escalade.

Due to AGC's unique design and evaluation process, its curved cover glass for car-mounted displays ensures the level of safety expected from an in-vehicle material, and also realizes its maximum glass strength and shape stability for a long period with low load stress for both the display panel and glass itself by being molded under a unique bending process. Furthermore, it plays a key role in improving both the high level of viewing clarity and non-stress usability of touch function through proprietary coating and decorative printing technologies covered by multiple patents.

Under its “AGC plus” management policy, the AGC Group has made a commitment to create products that add various pluses for stakeholders. Pluses for society include “safety,” “security” and “comfort,” while pluses for customers include “new value” and “functionality.” As a leading company with top market share of car-mounted display cover glass, AGC is dedicated to pursuing technological innovations that allow it to continue providing products that add new value and exceed customers' expectations.

ＡＧＣの大型・曲面車載ディスプレイ用カバーガラスがキャデラックの新型「エスカレード」に採用

AGC — Thu, 10 Sep 2020 13:00:00 +0900

　2020年9月10日

ＡＧＣの大型・曲面車載ディスプレイ用カバーガラスがキャデラックの新型「エスカレード」に採用 ― 量産車向け曲面OLEDディスプレイのカバーガラスとして世界初 ―
ＡＧＣ（ＡＧＣ株式会社、本社：東京、社長：島村琢哉）の大型・曲面車載ディスプレイ用カバーガラスが、キャデラックのラグジュアリーSUV「エスカレード」のニューモデルに採用されました。本製品は、ＡＧＣの化学強化用特殊ガラスDragontrail®に、化学強化処理、光学薄膜コーティング、装飾印刷、曲げなどの加工を施したもので、自動車業界初＊1となる曲面P-OLED（プラスチックOLED）ディスプレイ（LGエレクトロニクス社、LGディスプレイ社製）の高機能カバーガラスとして使用されています。
キャデラックの新型「エスカレード」の革新的なデザインのディスプレイは3つの画面から構成され、それぞれメータークラスター情報やナビゲーション、インフォテイメントなど、ドライバーに必要な多種多様な情報を表示します。また、高度な曲面成形技術を用いたＡＧＣの大型・曲面車載カバーガラスを大小2枚使用することで38インチ相当のディスプレイとして一体化され、上質且つ先進的なインテリアデザインの実現に寄与しています。
ＡＧＣの車載ディスプレイ用カバーガラスは、独自の設計・評価プロセスにより、自動車用内装材として求められる安全性を確保しており、ＡＧＣが開発した特殊な製法で曲げることでP-OLEDディスプレイおよびガラス本体にかかる応力負荷を低減し、長期的な強度と形状安定性を実現しています。また、ＡＧＣが多数の特許を保持するコーティングや装飾印刷の技術によって、高い視認性とスムーズなタッチパネル操作に求められる機能（防汚処理、耐摩耗性）を有しています。
AGCグループは、経営方針AGC plusの下、世の中に「安心・安全・快適」を、お客様に「新たな価値・機能」を、プラスする製品づくりに取り組んでいます。今後も業界トップシェアを誇る車載ディスプレイ用カバーガラスのリーディングカンパニーとして、お客様に満足頂ける、新たな価値をプラスした製品をご提供できるよう技術革新を進めていきます。

AGC's Light Control Glass, “WONDERLITE (TM) Dx,” Makes Worldwide Debut in Toyota's New Harrier

AGC — Tue, 30 Jun 2020 15:00:00 +0900

TOKYO, June 30, 2020 /Kyodo JBN/ --
AGC's Light Control Glass, “WONDERLITE (TM) Dx,” Makes Worldwide Debut in Toyota's New Harrier
AGC Inc. has announced its light control glass, “WONDERLITE (TM) Dx,” has been adopted for the panoramic sunroof of Toyota's new Harrier, launched for sale on June 17, 2020. When used as vehicle exterior glass, this product boasts the world's fastest response (*1) time, enabling instantaneous control of light transmission. This marks the world's first-ever adoption (*1) of the product in a mass production vehicle.

AGC's light control glass WONDERLITE (TM) Dx comprises a specialized film encapsulated between layers of interlayer in laminated automotive glass. By softening the sun's glare in dimmed mode (opaque state) and providing a wide sense of openness in transparent mode (clear state), the product realizes a vehicle interior that allows pleasant light to pour in from the panoramic sunroof whenever the user wishes.

Logo: https://kyodonewsprwire.jp/img/202006170973-O1-J4ya4Do9

Image1: Dimmed mode (opaque state) (*2)
https://kyodonewsprwire.jp/prwfile/release/M000303/202006170973/_prw_PI2fl_7S1299Bm.jpg

Image2: Transparent mode (clear state) (*2)
https://kyodonewsprwire.jp/prwfile/release/M000303/202006170973/_prw_PI3fl_R3c413jz.jpg

Under its "AGC plus" management policy, the AGC Group has made a commitment to create products that add various pluses for stakeholders. Pluses for society include “safety,” “security” and “comfort,” while pluses for customers include “new value” and “functionality.” AGC is dedicated to pursuing technological innovations that allow it to continue providing products that add new value and exceed customers' expectations.

Notes:
(*1): Based on AGC research.
(*2): Photos do not represent the panoramic sunroof of the new Harrier model.

REFERENCE

Technical Overview of Light Control Glass “WONDERLITE (TM) Dx”

-Structure

Image3: https://kyodonewsprwire.jp/img/202006170973-O4-de68Lr14

Light control glass is composed of a specialized film (*3) encapsulated between layers of interlayer in laminated automotive glass. The film contained within is packed with a special material too small to be perceived by the naked eye. Around 99% of ultraviolet rays are blocked in both transparent and dimmed mode (*4).

Notes:
(*3): Special film made by Kyusyu Nanotec Optics Co., Ltd.
(*4): Based on ISO9050 standards

-Mechanism
Voltage is used to control distribution and orientation of the special material in the film encapsulated between layers of interlayer in laminated automotive glass, enabling instantaneous switching between transparent mode and dimmed mode.

Image4: Dimmed mode (opaque state, when switched off)
https://kyodonewsprwire.jp/prwfile/release/M000303/202006170973/_prw_PI5lg_K8AH6A7f.jpg

Image5: Transparent mode (clear state, when switched on)
https://kyodonewsprwire.jp/prwfile/release/M000303/202006170973/_prw_PI6lg_2hMe5nbf.jpg

Source: AGC Inc.

AGC to Expand Its Spanish Synthetic Pharmaceutical Production Base for Capacity Increase and ...

AGC — Fri, 10 Apr 2020 15:00:00 +0900

TOKYO, Apr. 10, 2020 /Kyodo JBN/ --
AGC to Expand Its Spanish Synthetic Pharmaceutical Production Base for Capacity Increase and Establishment of New R&D Facility
AGC Inc. (AGC), a world-leading manufacturer of glass, chemicals and high-tech materials, has announced its decision to expand facilities at its synthetic pharmaceutical (*1) CDMO (*2) business subsidiary, AGC Pharma Chemicals Europe S. L. U., headquartered in Spain.

This initiative will not only upgrade existing production facilities to achieve production capacity 1.3 times the current level, but also establish a brand-new R&D facility. The new R&D facility is scheduled to begin operation in March 2021, while the facility expansion is scheduled for completion in May 2022.

Logo: https://kyodonewsprwire.jp/img/202004098924-O4-314a0g1e

Image1: AGC Pharma Chemicals Europe exterior
https://kyodonewsprwire.jp/prwfile/release/M000303/202004098924/_prw_PI1fl_132X1Cz3.png

Image2: Exterior of new research building
https://kyodonewsprwire.jp/prwfile/release/M000303/202004098924/_prw_PI2lg_uH9S7gie.jpg

AGC Pharma Chemicals Europe, a synthetic pharmaceutical CDMO, was acquired from Boehringer Ingelheim in March 2019 in order to establish synthetic pharmaceutical production capability in Europe for the supply of active pharmaceutical ingredients and their intermediates. In October of the same year, the name was changed from Malgrat Pharma Chemicals to its current AGC Pharma Chemicals Europe. The company has a long history and wealth of experience in the manufacture of pharmaceutical ingredients compliant with GMP (*3), and is capable of handling a wide range of production from development drugs to commercial drugs.

The synthetic pharmaceutical CDMO market is growing over 7% annually, while the number of contracts handled by the company is growing at an even faster rate. To satisfy this accelerating demand, existing production facilities will be upgraded to increase pharmaceutical production capacity to 1.3 times the current level. A new micronization facility will also be introduced to meet increasing demand for micronization of active pharmaceutical ingredients. In addition, a brand-new R&D facility will be built which will enable the development of processes from the lab scale to commercial production, and to deliver better and faster services to customers.

Under its “AGC plus” management policy, the AGC Group has made a commitment to position life science-related business, including the pharmaceutical CDMO business, as one of its strategic initiatives, aiming at sales in the 100 billion yen range by 2025. In addition to mergers and acquisitions, AGC is actively investing in facilities in Japan, the U.S. and Europe. AGC will continue to provide customers in each region with globally consistent, top-level quality and service in the life science sector, which is expected to exhibit significant growth in the coming years. By maximizing synergies among operation sites, AGC will enhance its technology and continue to pursue its goal of being a company that contributes to pharmaceutical companies, medical patients, and society.

Notes:

(*1) Synthetic pharmaceutical: Pharmaceuticals manufactured through chemical synthesis
(*2) CDMO: Contract Development & Manufacturing Organization, a company which is contracted or acts on behalf of another company to handle product manufacturing as well as the development of manufacturing methods.
(*3) GMP: Good Manufacturing Practice, a standard for the manufacture and quality management of pharmaceuticals and quasi-pharmaceutical products.

REFERENCE

- Overview of AGC Pharma Chemicals Europe

Company name: AGC Pharma Chemicals Europe S.L.U.
Established: 2018
Address: Catalonia, Spain
Shareholder & ratio: AGC, 100%

Image3: AGC Group offices engaged in life science operations
https://kyodonewsprwire.jp/prwfile/release/M000303/202004098924/_prw_PI3fl_6haV1r0r.png

Source: AGC Inc.

AGC to Establish New Plant in China to Produce Large 3D/Complex-shaped Cover Glass for Car ...

AGC — Tue, 17 Sep 2019 15:00:00 +0900

TOKYO, Sept. 17, 2019 /Kyodo JBN/ --
AGC Inc.
AGC to Establish New Plant in China to Produce Large 3D/Complex-shaped Cover Glass for Car-mounted Displays
AGC Inc., based in Tokyo, has announced its decision to establish a new production plant at its Chinese subsidiary, AGC Automotive (Suzhou) Inc., to produce large 3D/complex-shaped cover glass for car-mounted displays. The plant, located in Suzhou Industrial Park in Suzhou in the province of Jiangsu, features a fully integrated production line, based on the latest technologies, which handles every stage of the process from optical thin coating to decorative printing and composite molding of complex curved surfaces. Commercial sales will begin in 2022 for several vehicle models whose orders have already been secured.

Due to major changes in the automotive industry, including autonomous driving, electrification and connected technology, vehicle cockpits are expected to continue adopting innovative, dynamic design as they evolve into a digital lounge. Driven by this trend, car-mounted display cover glass is expected to increase in size, shape complexity and functionality while, at the same time, safe design is becoming a key request as sizes increase. AGC has built up over 60 years of design expertise as a world-leading automotive glass company, providing customers with cover glass that delivers both high quality and safety.

In 2013, AGC became the world's first company to establish a production system for car-mounted display cover glass that fully integrates every stage ranging from raw glass to final processing, and launched the product for sale that year. In 2017, the company also began manufacturing and offering curved glass in addition to the already available flat glass, boasting a top global market share in the industry.

Together with the two existing plants in Japan, the establishment of the new plant marks AGC's third production facility, making it possible for the company to provide high-quality glass on a global level. AGC also plans to establish a new development center specializing in new design and high functionality at its Keihin Plant in Japan in order to realize a system capable of flexibly adapting to upcoming changes in cockpit design.

Highly acclaimed for its advantages shown below, AGC's car-mounted display cover glass has been adopted for more than 70 vehicle models, with total shipments expected to reach the equivalent of 20 million vehicles by September 2019.

Thus, AGC:
- Ensures the level of safety expected of an in-vehicle material by being molded under a special process that ensures maximum glass strength after undergoing AGC's unique design and evaluation process

- Provides a superior quality product as a result of the AGC Group handling every aspect of the production process -- including production of chemically strengthened glass, application of optical thin coating, decorative printing, and composite molding of complex curved surfaces

- Plays a key role in improving both the viewing clarity and usability of displays through proprietary coating and decorative printing technologies covered by multiple patents

Under its “AGC plus” management policy, the AGC Group has made a commitment to create products that add various pluses for stakeholders. Pluses for society include “safety, security and comfort” while pluses for customers include “new value and functionality.” As a pioneer of car-mounted display cover glass, the AGC Group is dedicated to pursuing technological innovations that allow it to continue providing products that add new value and exceed customers' expectations.

For details, please visit:
https://kyodonewsprwire.jp/attach/201909120787-O1-0WGk0AF9.pdf

ＡＧＣ、大型3D・複雑形状の車載ディスプレイ用カバーガラス生産拠点を中国に新設

AGC — Thu, 12 Sep 2019 11:00:00 +0900

2019年9月12日
ＡＧＣ株式会社
大型3D・複雑形状の車載ディスプレイ用カバーガラス生産拠点を中国に新設
ＡＧＣ（ＡＧＣ株式会社、本社：東京、社長：島村琢哉）は、艾杰旭汽车玻璃（蘇州）有限公司（江蘇省蘇州工業園区）に、大型3D・複雑形状の車載ディスプレイ用カバーガラス生産拠点を建設することを決定しました。各種光学薄膜コーティングから、装飾印刷、複雑曲面の一体成形に至るまで、最先端技術を導入した一貫生産ラインを備え、既に受注が決定している複数の車種向けに、2022年に販売を開始する予定です。

自動運転・電動化・コネクテッドといった自動車業界を取り巻く大きな変化により、今後、クルマのコックピットは革新的でダイナミックなデザインが採用され、デジタルラウンジ化していくと予想されています。このトレンドの中、車載ディスプレイ用カバーガラスも大型化・複雑形状化・高機能化していくことが見込まれ、同時に大型化に伴う安全設計も求められます。当社は、自動車用ガラスのリーディングカンパニーとして60年以上に亘り培ってきた設計ノウハウを活用し、高品質で安全なカバーガラスの提供を実現します。

ＡＧＣは、2013年に世界で初めて、車載ディスプレイ用カバーガラスを素板から加工まで一貫生産する体制を整え販売を開始しました。2017年からは、平面形状に加えて曲面形状のカバーガラスも生産・販売しており、業界トップシェアを誇っています。
今回の新拠点設置によって、当社は既存の国内2拠点に加え、第3の生産拠点を保有することとなり、高品質な製品をグローバルにお客様に提供する体制が整うことになります。更に、国内の京浜工場内には、新デザイン・高機能に特化した開発センターを設置し、コックピットデザインの変化に柔軟に対応可能な体制を整えます。

ＡＧＣの車載ディスプレイ用カバーガラスは、以下の点を高く評価され、これまで70車種以上に採用されており、総出荷数は2019年9月で2,000万台分を達成する見込みです。
■当社独自の設計・評価プロセスを経て、ガラスの強度を最大限確保できる特殊なプロセスで成形されることで、自動車用
内装材として求められる安全性を確保していること
■化学強化ガラスの製造から、各種光学薄膜コーティング、装飾印刷、複雑曲面の一体成形まで、すべての工程をAGC
グループで担っており、高品質な製品を提供できること
■多数の特許を保有する当社独自のコーティングや装飾印刷の技術によって、ディスプレイの視認性や操作性の向上にも
寄与していること

AGCグループは、経営方針AGC plusの下、世の中に「安心・安全・快適」を、お客様に「新たな価値・機能」を、プラスする製品づくりに取り組んでいます。今後も車載ディスプレイ用カバーガラスのパイオニアとして、お客様に満足頂ける、新たな価値をプラスした製品をご提供できるよう技術革新を進めてまいります。　
　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　以上

【ご参考】
１．新設生産拠点の概要
（１）社名　　　　　　艾杰旭汽车玻璃（蘇州）有限公司
（２）所在地　　　　中華人民共和国　江蘇省　蘇州工業園区　望江路１５８号
（３）販売開始　　　２０２２年（予定）
（４）事業内容　　　車載ディスプレイ用カバーガラスの生産

２．車載ディスプレイ用カバーガラス事業の概要
　（１）これまでの経緯
　　　　　　２０１３年　ＡＧＣディスプレイグラス米沢にて、車載ディスプレイ用カバーガラスの生産を開始
　　　　　　２０１７年　京浜工場にて、世界で初めて※三次元曲面形状の車載ディスプレイ用カバーガラスの量産を開始
　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　　※２０１７年５月２３日時点、ＡＧＣ調べ

　（２）２０１９年９月現在の生産拠点
　　　　　　平面形状　：ＡＧＣディスプレイグラス米沢（山形県　米沢市）
　　　　　　曲面形状　：京浜工場（神奈川県　横浜市）

AGC Cover Glass for Car-mounted Displays Used in New Lexus RX Series

AGC — Tue, 03 Sep 2019 14:00:00 +0900

TOKYO, Sept. 3, 2019 /Kyodo JBN/ --
AGC Inc.
AGC Cover Glass for Car-mounted Displays Used
in New Lexus RX Series
AGC Inc., based in Tokyo, has announced that its cover glass for car-mounted displays is being used in Lexus' new RX series, just released for sale on August 29. AGC’s product, comprising Dragontrail (TM), a type of chemically strengthened specialty glass enhanced with chemical treatment and processed by thin optical coating, decorative printing, etc., is used as protective surface glass for the RX's navigation display.

Logo: https://kyodonewsprwire.jp/prwfile/release/M000303/201908290181/_prw_PI1lg_qqdtIO0v.jpg

The new Lexus RX series is characterized by its interior that has fused fine quality and innovation as a luxury SUV. AGC's cover glass for car-mounted displays is used for their navigation displays, available in the screen size of 8 or 12.3 inches overseas (12.3 inches only in Japan). This cover glass is an ideal match for the high-quality interior given the quality feel of the glass itself, and also offers exceptional viewing clarity as well as other features demanded of display touchscreen glass, including antifouling treatment and wear resistance.
Photo1: https://kyodonewsprwire.jp/prwfile/release/M000303/201908290181/_prw_PI2lg_15193wsK.jpg

Photo2: https://kyodonewsprwire.jp/prwfile/release/M000303/201908290181/_prw_PI3lg_hMIjF6az.jpg

In 2013, AGC became the world's first company to establish a production system for car-mounted display cover glass that fully integrates every stage from raw glass to final processing, and put the product on sale that year. In 2017, the company also began manufacturing and offering curved glass in addition to the already available flat glass product.

In response to the increasing size and shape complexity of modern car displays, AGC not only ensures that its car-mounted display cover glass provides the level of safety expected from a vehicle interior material through AGC’s unique design and evaluation process, but also employs proprietary coating and surface-printing technologies, covered by multiple patents, to play a key role in improving both viewing clarity and usability for displays.

Under its "AGC plus" management policy, the AGC Group has made a commitment to create products that add “safety,” “security” and “comfort” for society and “new value and functionality” for customers. As a pioneer of car-mounted display cover glass, AGC is dedicated to pursuing technological innovations that allow it to continue providing products that add new value and exceed customers' expectations.

ＡＧＣの車載ディスプレイ用カバーガラスがLEXUSの新型「RX」に採用

AGC — Mon, 02 Sep 2019 11:00:00 +0900

2019年9月2日
ＡＧＣ株式会社
ＡＧＣの車載ディスプレイ用カバーガラス　LEXUSの新型「RX」に採用
ＡＧＣ（ＡＧＣ株式会社、本社：東京、社長：島村琢哉）の車載ディスプレイ用カバーガラスが、8月29日に発売されたLEXUSの新型「RX」に採用されました。本製品は、化学強化用特殊ガラスDragontrail®に、化学強化処理、光学薄膜コーティング、装飾印刷などの加工を施したもので、ナビゲーションディスプレイの表面保護カバーとして使用されています。

LEXUSの新型「RX」は、ラグジュアリーSUVとしての上質さと先進性が融合したインテリアが特徴です。12.3インチおよび8インチ（海外仕様、日本国内仕様は12.3インチのみ）のナビゲーションディスプレイに採用されたＡＧＣの車載カバーガラスは、ガラス自体のもつ質感によって上質なインテリアにマッチするだけでなく、高い視認性や、ディスプレイのタッチパネル化に求められる機能（防汚処理、耐摩耗性）を有しています。

ＡＧＣは、2013年に世界で初めて、車載ディスプレイ用カバーガラスを素板から加工まで一貫生産する体制を整え販売を開始しました。2017年からは、平面形状に加えて曲面形状も生産・販売を開始しています。
車内のディスプレイのサイズが大型化、形状が複雑化する中で、ＡＧＣの車載カバーガラスは独自の設計・評価プロセスにより自動車用内装材として求められる安全性を確保しつつ、多数の特許を保有するコーティングや装飾印刷の技術によって、ディスプレイの視認性や操作性の向上にも寄与しています。

AGCグループは、経営方針AGC plusの下、世の中に「安心・安全・快適」を、お客様に「新たな価値・機能」を、プラスする製品づくりに取り組んでいます。今後も車載ディスプレイ用カバーガラスのパイオニアとして、お客様に満足頂ける、新たな価値をプラスした製品をご提供できるよう技術革新を進めてまいります。

AGC Honored at AutomotiveINNOVATIONS Awards 2019

AGC — Fri, 26 Jul 2019 14:00:00 +0900

LOUVAIN-LA-NEUVE, Belgium and TOKYO, July 26, 2019 /Kyodo JBN/ --
AGC Inc.
AGC Honored at AutomotiveINNOVATIONS Awards 2019
Leading global glassmaker AGC Inc. was honored at the AutomotiveINNOVATIONS Awards 2019 in Frankfurt, Germany, on July 8 as the second most INNOVATIVE supplier in the category of “Chassis, Carbody and Exterior” for its technological developments made in 5G on-glass antennas. The first prize in this category went to Goodyear while AGC was the only glass supplier rewarded in this ceremony. These awards distinguish the industry’s most outstanding achievements, many of which were related to the progress made in electric vehicles and connectivity. The annual event is organized by the Center of Automotive Management (CAM) in collaboration with auditing and consulting company PricewaterhouseCoopers.

(Logo: https://kyodonewsprwire.jp/prwfile/release/M000303/201907228950/_prw_PI1im_P1cxBPJf.jpg)

More specifically, in the automotive sector, the AGC achievements related to 5G on-glass antennas include developing new components and providing solutions (*). In addition, on March 15, 2019, AGC Glass Europe opened a state-of-the-art facility housing anechoic chambers in Belgium. This new facility is used for developing and testing AGC technology for windows with on-glass antennas, in response to growing demand for connectivity. For Jean-Marc Meunier, Regional President of AGC Automotive Company, “This distinction gives international recognition by an independent scientific institute to the unique expertise that AGC has so far developed in automotive on-glass antennas.”

Under the mid-term management plan "AGC plus-2020," the AGC Group has positioned mobility, electronics and life science business as key strategic business areas. In the field of mobility where specific solution proposals for 5G utilization are required in the future, the AGC Group has been an industry leader in the research, development, and production of automotive on-glass antennas for over 40 years.

In order to meet broad customer needs for "connected" cars in the age of IoT/AI, the AGC Group will further strengthen its system that contributes to customers from both sides of new component development and solution provision.

(*) Achievements about 5G on-glass antennas:
PRESS RELEASE dated July 25, 2018:
Success with 5G Communications Using “Vehicle Glass-Mounted Antenna” for 5G Connected Car
- World's first 28 GHz band-compatible antenna achieves 8 Gbps super high-speed communication with high-speed vehicle -
http://www.agc.com/en/news/detail/1197413_2814.html

PRESS RELEASE dated May 29, 2019:
DOCOMO, AGC and Ericsson Achieve World’s First 5G Communication Using Glass Antenna for 28 GHz
- Thin, compact antenna enables 5G communication under difficult conditions -
http://www.agc.com/en/news/detail/1199304_2814.html

AGC Automotive Europe
Based in Louvain-la-Neuve (Belgium), AGC Automotive Europe is the European automotive glass branch of the AGC Group. The AGC Group, with Tokyo-based AGC Inc. at its core, is a world-leading supplier of flat, automotive and display glass, chemicals and other high-tech materials and components. AGC Automotive Europe specializes in production of windows (on an OEM and replacement basis) for vehicle manufacturers. It also provides ready-to-assemble systems (fixation devices), higher value-added functional systems (antennas, sensors and heating elements) and enhanced property glazing (improved thermal, and sound and vision comfort).
For more information, go to: www.agc-automotive.com (automotive glass, OEM) and www.agc-arg.com (automotive glass, ARG).

This press release is available in English, French, Dutch, German, Italian, Spanish, Czech and Russian at www.agc-glass.eu. A short video on antenna design and validation is available on https://youtu.be/tZzTwUOLlAc.

世界初、２８ＧＨｚ帯に対応する５Ｇ端末向けのガラスアンテナで通信に成功

AGC — Wed, 29 May 2019 10:00:00 +0900

2019年5月29日
ＡＧＣ株式会社
世界初、２８ＧＨｚ帯に対応する５Ｇ端末向けのガラスアンテナで通信に成功
～室内や建物内での安定した５Ｇ高速通信が可能に～
　株式会社ＮＴＴドコモ（以下、ドコモ）、ＡＧＣ株式会社（以下、ＡＧＣ）とエリクソン・ジャパン株式会社（以下、エリクソン）は、自動車や鉄道などの車室内や建物内での安定した第５世代移動通信方式（以下、５Ｇ）による高速通信実現に向け、２８ＧＨｚ帯の電波送受信が可能な「ガラス一体型５Ｇアンテナ」（以下、本アンテナ）で、５Ｇ通信に世界で初めて※１成功しました。
　本アンテナは小型かつ薄型の透明ガラスアンテナで、景観を損ねないという特長を持っています。

　２８ＧＨｚ帯の周波数は、これまで第４世代移動通信方式（以下、ＬＴＥ）などで利用していた周波数帯よりも直進性が強く、車室や建物内で通信するときには電波が弱まってしまう傾向があります。そこで電波が弱まる前に、車室や建物のガラス面に貼り付けられた本アンテナで電波を送受信することで、安定した５Ｇ高速通信が可能になります。
　また、本アンテナは透明性が高く、建物や車両などに設置しても視野をさえぎらず、また景観を損なうことがないため、車両や建物などへの設置の可能性が広がります。

　時速約３０ｋｍで走行中の実験用車両の窓ガラスに本アンテナを貼り付け、車内での５Ｇ通信速度を検証する実証実験を２０１９年４月２２日（月）～２０１９年５月２８日（火）に、東京都墨田区周辺の市街地において行いました。時速約３０ｋｍで走行中の実験用車両の窓ガラスに本アンテナを貼り付け、車内での５Ｇ通信速度を検証した結果４００ＭＨｚの帯域幅で下り最大３．８Ｇｂｐｓ、基地局から半径約１００ｍのエリアにおいて平均１．３Ｇｂｐｓの５Ｇ通信に世界で初めて※１成功しました。

　今後もドコモ、ＡＧＣおよびエリクソンは、本アンテナを複数束ねてデータの送受信を行うＭａｓｓｉｖｅ　ＭＩＭＯ対応によるさらなる通信速度の向上だけでなく、基地局の設置が困難な場所や一時的な５Ｇの需要があるような環境において、本アンテナの活用による５Ｇのエリア拡充や用途の拡大などの取り組みを進めます。

※１　ドコモ調べ（２０１９年５月２９日現在）。

AGC Group’s Indonesian Company, PT Asahimas Flat Glass, Starts Commercial Production of High ...

AGC — Mon, 15 Apr 2019 14:00:00 +0900

TOKYO, Apr. 15, 2019 /Kyodo JBN/ --
AGC Inc.
AGC Group’s Indonesian Company,
PT Asahimas Flat Glass, Starts Commercial Production
of High Value-added products at Cikampek Plant
AGC Inc. announced on April 15 that the AGC group’s Indonesian unit, PT Asahimas Flat Glass Tbk (AMG) (*1), began operating a mirror line at its Cikampek plant in the first quarter 2019 following the launch of its new float furnace and mass production on its new magnetron sputtering coater in the third quarter of 2018, marking another milestone in AGC’s glass footprints in Asia.

(Logo: https://kyodonewsprwire.jp/img/201904055102-O2-iSw9633o)

With the integrated, state-of-the-art float glass furnace, magnetron coating line and mirror line, AMG offers a single source for a wide variety of specialty glass products and solutions catering to different market needs across the Asia-Pacific region.

(Photo: https://kyodonewsprwire.jp/prwfile/release/M000303/201904055102/_prw_PI1lg_vV1BcNhF.jpg)

The new magnetron coater with cutting-edge AGC-Interpane Europe technology is capable of delivering excellent products of solar control, high performance and spectrally selective glass in jumbo size up to 6 meters. A series of high-performance coatings, T-Sunlux and Stopray targeted at residential and commercial segments for Asia-Pacific markets is launched progressively.

T-Sunlux, a temperable magnetron-coated glass, has a durable coating that is able to go through tempering without compromising on its appearance. The T-Sunlux coating presents good performance to block heat when there is excessive solar heat. With the ability to be used in both annealed and tempered versions, with a long shelf life, it provides glass processors with the flexibility to cater to project needs by just stocking one single product.

Stopray, high-performance magnetron-coated glass, gives excellent selectivity with a neutral appearance. It offers improved balance between visible light transmittance, solar control and enhanced U-values, thereby delivering maximum energy savings that meet or exceed energy code requirements. Always used in double or triple glazing, its performance is optimized and suits tropical and cold climates.

The new mirror line is a big step for AMG as it enhances its product lineup with the launch of Mirox MNGE (Mirox New Generation Ecological Mirrors), manufactured with patented AGC Europe technology and the same optimum levels of quality and service.

Mirox MNGE stands out for its copper-free metal coating, very low-level lead paints and its high resistance to corrosion. With the ecology of Mirox MNGE, end users are assurred of low levels of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)(*2) and formaldehyde emissions from the mirror. With Mirox MNGE being launched with product warranty and attaining Singapore Green Building Product (SGBP) certification, it presents end users with greater benefits (i.e. enhance indoor air quality, improve their health and well-being).

Customers in the Asia-Pacific region can look forward to a comprehensive range of both pyrolytic and magnetron-coated products and ecological interior glass, allowing architects and glass customers to combine creativity, aesthetics and facade technology, while fulfilling today’s energy regulations and green building trends.

(*1) PT Asahimas Flat Glass Tbk (AMG) is part of the global AGC group. AMG was established as a joint venture in 1973 between Asahi Glass Co. Ltd. (Japanese glass manufacturer) and PT Rodamas (an Indonesian distributor of glass and related consumer goods).

(*2) VOCs and formaldehyde are some of the sources of indoor air pollutants that come from the chemicals released by buildings and products (e.g. paints, lacquers, silicon, glue, paint strippers, cleaning materials and pesticides) used in them. With high concentration of VOCs, it can cause short- to long-term adverse health effects.

For more information, please visit:
https://kyodonewsprwire.jp/attach/201904055102-O1-5pmqxg6x.pdf

AGC Establishes Global Tri-polar R&D Framework for Automotive On-glass Antennas

AGC — Mon, 18 Mar 2019 14:00:00 +0900

TOKYO, Mar. 18, 2019 /Kyodo JBN/ --
AGC Inc.
AGC Establishes Global Tri-polar R&D Framework
for Automotive On-glass Antennas
- Contributing to "Connected" Cars in Age of IoT -

AGC Inc. announced on March XX that the anechoic chambers constructed in Gosselies (Belgium) for the development of automotive on-glass antennas were inaugurated on March 15, 2019. With the completion of this R&D facility, AGC has established a tri-polar R&D framework for automotive on-glass antennas in Japan, the United States and Europe for the first* time in the glass industry.

Logo: https://kyodonewsprwire.jp/prwfile/release/M000303/201903144247/_prw_PI1fl_4mVMWyco.png

In a future mobility society, cars will be equipped with devices such as cameras, LiDARs and sensors. Cars will need to be both connected to each other and have communicative functionality that delivers V2X, connecting cars to all other things. In these circumstances, automotive glass is playing an increasingly important role as an antenna/gateway for radio wave transmission and reception.

Picture of European anechoic chamber: https://kyodonewsprwire.jp/prwfile/release/M000303/201903144247/_prw_PI2fl_EkJED8I5.jpg

Movie of the anechoic chamber:
https://youtu.be/KH46Nt-3hvw

For designing and positioning an automotive on-glass antenna to achieve high-speed communication such as broadcasting services and 5G without spoiling the car design, advanced simulation technologies and highly precise measuring technologies are required from the product designing and development phase.
AGC has been an industry leader in the research, development and production of automotive on-glass antennas for over 40 years. AGC also designs automotive on-glass antennas in its anechoic chambers in Japan and the United States, and provides customers with on-glass antennas. By completing the anechoic chambers in Europe, AGC has established a framework for accelerating the research and development of antennas to meet demand for "connected" cars in the age of IoT and supporting automobile development by its customers on a global scale.
The AGC Group places the field of mobility as a strategic business as part of its management policy, “AGC plus.” The Group will utilize the strengths of its anechoic chambers in the three bases of Japan, the United States and Europe to contribute to the realization of "connected" cars.

*Based on an AGC study (as of March 18, 2019)

For detailed information, please visit:
https://kyodonewsprwire.jp/attach/201903144247-O1-k3c8o4ke.pdf