Uvex's Electronic SunglassesUvex's new Variotronic sunglasses seem like something out of a science fiction movie, allowing riders to change the tint of their lens at the push of a button. The change from 64% to 16% visible light transmission takes only one-tenth of a second, a feature that anyone who's ever been momentarily blinded after emerging into the bright sunlight from a dark forest, or vice versa, can appreciate. That number is also considerably quicker than photochromic lenses, which typically take over twenty seconds to adjust to changing light conditions. The Variotronic also has an automatic mode, where a built in sensor changes the tint depending on the amount of ambient light. The technology for the lenses was originally developed for military applications, but Uvex is now concentrating on implementing it into eyewear for cyclists.
How Do They Work?
The key to the Variotronic's tint-altering magic is a liquid crystal film that's laminated to the lens. When electricity is run through the material, a charge that's supplied by the glasses' USB rechargeable battery, the alignment of the liquid crystals is altered, changing the tint. Battery life is said to be 50 hours, enough time to fit in multiple all-day epics before plugging them in. Initially there will be two frame styles offered when the glasses hit the market in late October / early November for €300.
The Variotronic's battery is housed in the left arm, and uses a micro-USB port for recharging.
Jakkyll Hde 2-in-1 Helmet
Uvex also had a prototype of their upcoming two-in-one helmet on display, Called the Jakkyl Hde (yes, that's how they spell it - it's the German equivalent to Jekyll and Hyde), the helmet has two dials that can be turned to release the laminated fiberglass chin bar for those long uphill slogs, and then it can be quickly reinstalled before the fun begins.
The final weight is expected to be 630 grams, a very competitive number for this style of helmet. Other features include a retention system that uses BOA's ratcheting dial to adjust the fit around the head, and a visor with enough range of motion to fit goggles underneath. Final safety standard certifications are still underway, but Uvex say that they're planning on having it meet all of the EU standards as well as those required by the CPSC. Expect the Jakkyl Hde to retail for €199 when it becomes available in Spring 2016.
I'll stick with my $40 goggles...
www.millerwelds.com/products/welding_protection/head_face
Batteries now on suspension, shifting, and seatposts as well.
No thanks. It would take 3 hours just to get ready for a ride then you are thinking about your battery life the whole time.
If the automatic mode really works I'd like to see that, but probably would never buy them knowing how I go thru glasses.
I'm getting better, only about one pair per month lately, haha
This is all just speculation on my part. I got my engineering degree from Armchair University.
Btw it already exists in the surfing world. www.thesurfingblog.com/zinka-a-colorful-zinc-oxide-sunscreen
We know they dont offer the same protection as one piece full face lid but in my opinion they should not be sold if they cant at least pass this cert..
Just shove this up yer arse, and you can simultaneously power your sunglasses, heart rate monitor, bowel monitor, power monitor, suspension fork, rear shock, seatpost, rear derailleur, and belly scratcher!!! A single charge will last 5 hours with full integration, after which you will need to sit on the charging station for a quick 30 minutes to recharge!
*Moisture and vibration resistant. **Crashing will void 30 day warranty. ***Accidentally flushing down the toilet is not covered under 30 day warranty.
www.titaniumgeek.com/gear-reviews/uvex-variotronic-ff-sunglasses-review
but of course the Germans would be the ones to develop something as insanely complex as this. (See also doppelkupplungsgetriebe)
Nearly there Uvex - good job will be interested to see the second generation.