Dynamic solar shading, at the most basic level, is any form of shading that can be adjusted depending on the conditions, as opposed to a static solution such as tinted glass.
However, a truly dynamic system is one that can respond autonomously to the conditions. This article in the Washington Post put it simply: ‘As soon as the sun rises, window shades should come down’.
Smart technology will get real-time readings of everything from sun levels, temperature, wind levels and more to decide which is the optimal position for your blinds, based on your requirements.
Dynamic shading can be beneficial for a number of requirements, such as:
- Maximising light levels
- Minimising glare
- Retaining heat in large buildings
- Reducing energy consumption
- Privacy and security
It can also be a key player in keeping buildings cool during warmer weather. Keeping buildings cool is vital to occupant health, especially offices and public sector buildings. An uncomfortably warm building can lead to poor customer experience, heat-related illness, lower staff morale, overheating and more, so there are many reasons to make sure your temperature levels are controlled.
Why choose a dynamic shading solution for heat control?
Relying on manual operation of your blinds to control temperatures or light levels doesn’t really work. For example, in a large office building, staff will close the blind when the glare is too much to cope with, but they will rarely open them again when the glare reduces. In fact, on average, office blinds are only moved twice a week! And only 12% of people operate their blinds once a day. Typically blinds will remain static and the HVAC and artificial lighting will be forced to work longer and harder.
The simplest solution is an automated, dynamic shading system. By controlling your blinds using smart technology, you are saving time, money, reducing the environmental impact of artificial lighting and cooling, and creating a more comfortable living or working environment.
Sunlight sensors can detect when there is too much light coming in through the window that could raise internal temperatures or cause problems with glare. Using a temperature sensor in conjunction with the sunlight sensor provides an extra data source to ensure accurate readings.
Once the sensors detect a temperature or light level that is outside your predetermined parameters, the system will send a message to activate the blinds.
What is the main takeaway here?
A successful dynamic shading system consists of two key components: the shading material and the method of control. If either of these should be prioritised it is the controls, because the very best shading material will not do its job well if not deployed intelligently.
Automated dynamic sun shading systems, using the latest shading materials and intelligent control technology, are the way in which we can harness the benefits of daylight without the harmful effects of glare and overheating. Bring on the sunshine!