Transparent, Smart Toilets That Becomes Frosted Once You Lock The Doors
The Japanese have always been hygiene conscious and there are various innovations revolving around toilets. From smart bidets to warm toilet seats, you’d think you have seen it all, but would you use a transparent magic toilet?
Yes, you heard that right. The transparent toilets designed by Shigeru Ban; a Pritzker Prize-winning architect are made of an opacity-changing “smart glass”. Tokyo unveiled the new toilets in two public parks to address the issue of “dark, dirty and dangerous” public restrooms.
The tinted glass toilet stalls become frosted and opaque when occupied and locked properly. An electric current realigns the crystals in the glass when the door is unlocked which creates the transparent effect.
What catches the eye though is how the toilets are brightly lit and colourful, in shades of violet, teal, watermelon red and mango yellow.
People had mixed views on the futuristic technology, some citing concerns of human error.
And others who are for the tech marvel.
Japan has always been home to innovative inventions and this is definitely a marvel. However, would you dare to use a transparent public restroom in the middle of the parks?
SMART GLASS AND HOW IT WORKS
Smart glass has been around for a while and there are a number of architectures that incorporates the usage of the glass for privacy reasons.
The light transmission properties of smart glass is altered when light, heat or current is applied. The glass changes from transparent to translucent or opaque, depending on the current, light or heat that passes through it.
Perhaps the simplest glass that uses this technology would be transition lenses, where the lenses adjust the tint depending on the sun exposure.
Reporter’s Opinions: As much as I appreciate the technology, my only concern is when the lock malfunctions and then the glass slowly fades to transparency when you’re still pooping.
Imagine such restrooms in the middle of our parks. You finish doing your business, the door unlocks, you decided to look up and there you see your friendly neighbourhood kakak peeking at you.
It is a cause for concern in our parks where it is home to many spirits who are made homeless thanks to the rapid development of our country.
