Enhancing Privacy and Flexibility in a World Leading Research Environment
Located on the campus of the National Institutes of Health in Bethesda, Maryland, the National Library of Medicine serves as the world’s largest biomedical library and a global leader in health information, medical research, and data science.
Supporting researchers, clinicians, educators, and policymakers worldwide, the institution requires environments that foster collaboration while protecting confidentiality.
As part of a modernization initiative, the project team sought a privacy solution capable of adapting instantly to changing operational requirements without compromising the openness and architectural integrity of the space.
Ultra clear PriWatt™ self adhesive smart film was selected to retrofit existing glass partitions, transforming static glazing into intelligent, switchable privacy surfaces.
The project was coordinated by New Age Development Group and installed by authorized distributor Smart Glass Technologies.
Project Overview
Location: Bethesda, Maryland
Facility: National Library of Medicine
Application: Conference rooms, meeting spaces, and presentation areas
Technology: PriWatt™ ultra clear self adhesive smart film
Installation Type: Retrofit over existing glass
The Challenge
Modern research facilities require spaces that can support a wide range of activities throughout the day.
A conference room may host collaborative workshops in the morning, executive briefings in the afternoon, and confidential presentations later the same day.
Traditional privacy solutions often force organizations to choose between openness and confidentiality.
Mechanical blinds and curtains introduce visual clutter, obstruct natural light, require ongoing maintenance, and limit the flexibility of the space.
Replacing existing glazing systems would have increased project complexity, extended construction schedules, and disrupted daily operations.
The project team needed a solution that could deliver:
- Instant privacy for sensitive meetings and presentations
- Maximum transparency when privacy was not required
- Preservation of natural light and open sightlines
- Seamless integration with existing architecture
- Minimal disruption during installation
- Long term reliability in a high use environment
The Solution
PriWatt™ ultra clear self adhesive smart film was applied directly to the existing interior glazing, converting conventional glass into dynamic privacy surfaces.
Using advanced PDLC technology, the film transitions instantly between transparent and opaque states with the touch of a button.
When powered on, liquid crystal molecules align to allow light to pass through the film, creating a highly transparent viewing experience.
When powered off, the crystals scatter light to provide immediate privacy.
The retrofit installation preserved the original glazing and framing systems while significantly reducing installation time compared to full glass replacement.
The result is a flexible, future ready environment that adapts instantly to changing user requirements.
Why PDLC Technology
Polymer Dispersed Liquid Crystal technology offers unique advantages for institutional and commercial environments where privacy needs change throughout the day.
Unlike static privacy solutions, PDLC allows users to control transparency on demand without affecting the functionality or aesthetics of the space.
Key benefits include:
- Instant switching between clear and private modes
- Preservation of daylight and visual openness
- Improved space utilization and room flexibility
- Elimination of blinds, shades, and curtains
- Enhanced user experience and occupant comfort
- Quiet operation with no moving parts
- Reduced maintenance requirements
- Support for modern minimalist design
- Improved hygiene by eliminating dust collecting window treatments
- Ability to create multifunctional environments
- Compatibility with automation and building control systems
For organizations that rely on collaboration while handling sensitive information, PDLC technology provides an elegant balance between transparency and privacy.
The PriWatt™ Advantage
Every smart film solution is not created equal.
PriWatt™ ultra clear self adhesive smart film is engineered to deliver exceptional optical performance, reliability, and ease of integration.
Key advantages include:
Superior Transparency
Ultra clear technology minimizes haze and preserves natural views, delivering a clean, premium appearance in the transparent state.
Retrofit Capability
PriWatt™ can be applied directly to existing glass, avoiding the cost, disruption, and lead times associated with glass replacement.
Fast Installation
Retrofit installation significantly reduces project timelines while minimizing disruption to occupied spaces.
Uniform Privacy Performance
Advanced manufacturing processes ensure consistent switching performance and uniform opacity across large glass surfaces.
Low Profile Integration
The system integrates seamlessly with existing glazing systems while maintaining the original architectural intent.
Scalable Controls
PriWatt™ can be operated through wall switches, remote controls, mobile devices, automation systems, and building management platforms.
Proven Reliability
Designed for demanding commercial applications, PriWatt™ systems are engineered for long term performance in high use environments.
Energy Efficiency
By preserving daylight while reducing reliance on mechanical shading systems, PriWatt™ supports more efficient and adaptable interior spaces.
Design Considerations
The installation was carefully designed to complement the architecture of the space rather than compete with it.
Clean lines, open sightlines, and access to natural light remain central elements of the user experience.
By eliminating traditional window treatments, the project team maintained a refined, modern aesthetic while introducing a new level of functionality.
The result is a meeting environment that feels open and connected when transparency is desired and private when confidentiality is essential.
Project Outcomes
The completed installation transformed conventional glass partitions into intelligent architectural elements that respond instantly to changing requirements.
Meeting spaces can now transition seamlessly between open collaboration and confidential discussion.
Occupants benefit from greater control over their environment, improved functionality, and a more sophisticated user experience.
Most importantly, the retrofit approach delivered these advantages without major construction, prolonged downtime, or disruption to daily operations.
Key Benefits Delivered
- Instant privacy on demand
- Ultra clear transparency
- Retrofit installation over existing glass
- Enhanced confidentiality for meetings and presentations
- Preservation of natural light
- Elimination of blinds and curtains
- Improved space flexibility
- Reduced maintenance requirements
- Seamless integration with existing architecture
- Minimal operational disruption during installation
- Support for future automation and smart building integration
The National Library of Medicine project demonstrates how existing glass can be transformed into a responsive architectural element that supports the evolving needs of modern research environments.
By combining retrofit simplicity with instant privacy control, PriWatt™ smart film delivers a sophisticated solution for organizations seeking to balance openness, flexibility, and confidentiality without compromising design.
