Custom Logo Smart Films: Branding Innovation with PDLC Technology
- SFI Team
- Nov 4
- 5 min read
In an era where architectural aesthetics and branding converge, the ability to integrate a company logo directly into a smart film installation opens up exciting possibilities. Today, smart films—especially the PDLC (Polymer Dispersed Liquid Crystal) types—are no longer just about switching from transparent to opaque. They are becoming dynamic canvases for corporate identity. By combining a logo with smart film, you create a surface that not only offers privacy or transparency on demand, but also displays your brand in distinctive ways.
Moreover, this integration is fully feasible: yes, you can combine your logo with smart film—and yes, doing so typically calls for special transformer/control equipment (e.g., remote or automation interface). The lead time is short and efficient when you provide the appropriate files (such as vector logo formats). Also, the material can display your logo in four distinct modes, as illustrated in the videos you provided (video1 and video2).Below we’ll walk through what this means, how the technology works, the technical requirements, creative applications, and what you should expect when working with a provider such as Smart Films International (SFI).
What is Smart Film Technology?
How Smart Film Works? Smart films (commonly PDLC-based) consist of a layer of liquid‑crystal droplets embedded within a polymer matrix, sandwiched between transparent conductive films (often ITO). When no voltage is applied, the crystals scatter light, rendering the film opaque/frosted; when voltage is applied, the crystals align and allow light through, rendering the film clear.
Types of Smart Films: Adhesive vs Laminated
There are retrofit films (self‑adhesive) that can be applied to existing glass surfaces, and there are laminated or inter‑layer films built into new glass units or IGUs (insulated glass units). SFI offers a range including adhesive smart film, laminated smart film, and IGU smart glass.
Core Benefits of Smart Films
Instant privacy on demand (clear ⇄ frosted), sleek design (no blinds or curtains), good for daylight control, sometimes projection surface, and branding opportunities.
Custom Logo Smart Films
Can You Add a Logo to Smart Film?
Yes – modern smart film producers allow you to embed or overlay logos and patterns. For example, by laser‑etching or segmenting layers of PDLC film, a logo can appear or disappear depending on the powered state.
Visual Effects and Privacy Modes
What makes this exciting is that you can achieve several distinct visual states: the film can be fully transparent, fully opaque (frosted), partly showing the logo or pattern, or the logo may reverse polarity relative to the background. The “four modes” you referenced correspond to these combinations.
Example Use Cases in Corporate Branding
In corporate lobbies, storefronts, meeting room partitions, hotels, and retail façade installations: the film can show the brand logo when opaque, and disappear (clear view) when transparency is desired. It becomes both architectural element and brand signage.
Custom Logo Smart Films
Technical Requirements for Logo Integration
Importance of a Vector Logo File
To embed logos cleanly in smart film, the provider will typically require a high‑resolution vector file (e.g., AI, EPS, SVG) so that the pattern/laser cut or segmented film is accurate. As one supplier notes: “we require a high‑resolution image file of your desired design.”
Role of Special Transformers and Remotes
Yes, you will need the correct electrical supply, a transformer/power supply appropriate for PDLC film, and a control device (remote, wall switch, automation interface) to switch between modes. Some systems offer remote control, app or voice command compatibility.
Electrical & Installation Considerations
Wiring must be routed to the film edge, connections protected; if you are applying to existing glass, cleaning and preparation matter. If inline with façade or embedded glass, manufacturer integration and lead time matter. Also consider segmentation if the logo has distinct zones (for example to switch only the logo differently from the rest).
Creative Applications of Logo Smart Films
Showcasing Logos in Four Dynamic Modes
The four modes visible in your provided videos might be:
Fully transparent glass with no visible logo (powered ON for full transparency)
Fully frosted/opaque glass with no visible logo (powered OFF for full privacy)
Frosted background with a clear logo outline (logo “cut‑out” appears transparent)
Transparent background with a frosted/opaque logo (logo stands out as opaque against clear surroundings)This capability provides dramatic branding + functional transitions.
Integration with Glass Partitions, Doors, and More
You can apply the logo‑smart film for internal meeting room walls, reception glass walls, sliding doors, or external façades. In each case the film serves both privacy control and brand communication.
Projection and Backlighting Possibilities
Some smart films support projection surfaces (e.g., display content on the pane) so your logo or messaging can alternate with video or lighting effects.
Lead Time and Delivery Expectations
Smart Films International (SFI) offers short lead times for Custom Logo Smart Films—typically around 7 days, depending on order size and customization complexity. With a ready vector logo file and confirmed specifications, production can begin promptly, ensuring fast delivery for time-sensitive projects.
Summary
Combining your logo with smart film offers a powerful blend of functional transparency, instant privacy, and branded architectural expression. By embedding a logo into a PDLC smart film system, you effectively turn a glass wall or partition into both a versatile surface and a brand communication piece.
The technical demands are manageable: you’ll need a vector logo file, proper transformer and control system, and a reliable manufacturer/install partner. Provided design files and coordination are prepared, lead times can be short, making this solution ideal for retrofit or new installations. With four dynamic modes achievable, your logo can appear, disappear, or invert in ways that engage users and elevate your space.
FAQ
Can I combine my company logo with smart film?
Yes — modern PDLC smart film systems support custom logos and patterns embedded in the film layer or via segmentation.
Do I need a special transformer for logo‑integrated smart films?
Yes — you will need a compatible power supply/transformer and control device (remote, wall switch, automation interface) suited to PDLC film.
How many visual modes can be shown?
Typically you can achieve four visual states: full transparency, full opacity, transparent logo on opaque background, and opaque logo on transparent background.
What kind of logo file is required?
A high‑resolution vector file (e.g., .AI, .EPS or .SVG) is strongly preferred so that the film manufacturer can create accurate cuts or segmentation of the logo.
Can this be applied to existing glass?
Yes — adhesive versions of smart film are designed for retrofit onto existing glass surfaces, though wiring and surface preparation must be planned.
Is the logo visible when the film is powered off?
It depends on the design: you can elect for the logo to appear only in one state (powered off or on) or switch between states so the logo appears/disappears as part of the effect.
What is the typical lead time for logo smart films?
When files and measurements are ready, lead times can be short (e.g., ~10 days or less for smaller quantities). Always consult your supplier/manufacturer for exact turnaround.
