RETRO-REFLECTIVE: HOW DOES IT WORK?
Ever wanted to experience the superpowers of retro-reflective technology? We tell you everything!
Millions of micro-prisms at the service of visibility
Retro-reflective technology is based on a simple principle:
Light is reflected back to its source by millions of micro-prisms.
By comparison (see diagram above):
- a mirror reflects light in the symmetrically opposite direction
- the retroreflective reflects the light in the direction of its source
And any surface will absorb a large part of the light while scattering the rest in all directions, the light is "lost".
State-of-the-art technology, at the highest level of precision
The shape and position of the micro-prisms in the materials used and their color condition their effectiveness:
- More or less retro reflection power
- More or less exposure angle
- The strength of daylight or reflected colors
Retro-reflective technology has found its interest mainly in the road sector: road signs, safety clothing, vehicle markings… So many elements that have been able to gain visibility for enhanced safety for users.
In situation, it is the headlights (or dipped headlights) of the vehicles which illuminate the retroreflective. This then sends this light back to the vehicle's lights to be seen from the driver's seat.
Only the occupants of the vehicle see the brightly illuminated retro-reflector.
In the case of the motorcycle, it is an advantage and a perfect complement to its own lights. Instead of being seen from the front and back only, the rider gains lateral visibility. An additional guarantee of security, no doubt!
The reflective makes you visible only to those who need to see you, without disturbing other users.
And all this without consuming any energy: the retro-reflective uses the energy already present on the road to make it smarter.
