Shape Memory Dynamic Facade Modules for Zero-Energy Shading
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing dynamic facade systems face a conflict between achieving zero energy consumption for environmental sustainability and user controllability, as passive systems that self-regulate do not respond to user needs, while active systems require energy consumption.
Innovation Solution
A dynamic facade system using shape memory materials and alloys, with an outer structure that autonomously adjusts to sunlight and an inner structure controlled by the user, allowing for zero energy operation and adaptive comfort.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If a passive system is used for autonomous self-regulation, then energy consumption is reduced to zero, but user controllability is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The facade system is divided into multiple independent modules, each capable of autonomous operation through shape memory materials. This segmentation allows the system to maintain passive energy-efficient operation while enabling localized user control through selective module activation, resolving the contradiction between zero energy consumption and user controllability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a static passive facade to a dynamic system using shape memory materials that can autonomously change geometry in response to environmental stimuli. This dynamic capability enables the facade to self-regulate energy consumption while maintaining the potential for user control through controlled activation, addressing both energy efficiency and operational flexibility.
2Ease of operation
If an active feedback system is implemented for user control, then user comfort is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The shape memory materials enable the facade modules to self-regulate their configuration in response to environmental conditions without requiring active feedback systems or external energy input. This self-service mechanism maintains user comfort through autonomous adaptation while keeping energy consumption at zero, resolving the contradiction between user control and energy efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes physical parameters of the shape memory materials (temperature, stress state) to trigger autonomous geometric transformations. These parameter changes enable the facade to respond to environmental conditions and user needs without requiring continuous energy input or active feedback control, maintaining both controllability and energy efficiency.
3Ease of operation
If traditional control systems are used, then user comfort is maintained, but energy consumption and emissions increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical control systems (motors, actuators, control electronics) with a passive shape memory material-based system. This substitution eliminates the need for energy-consuming mechanical components while maintaining the ability to adjust facade geometry for user comfort, resolving the contradiction between comfort maintenance and energy emissions reduction.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses composite materials incorporating shape memory alloys or polymers that combine structural functionality with active deformation capability. These composite materials enable the facade to maintain user comfort through geometric adjustment without requiring energy-consuming traditional control systems, eliminating energy emissions while preserving comfort.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system achieves energy-efficient and user-controllable shading, reducing maintenance costs and enhancing building comfort and performance by integrating autonomous solar regulation with user interaction.
Implementation Method 1
said first hinge is made with a shape memory element with passive configuration
Data Source
AI summary
A dynamic facade system for controlling shading, characterized in that said facade system comprises a block (30) composed of an outer glass panel (31), an intermediate framework (32) inside which a series of steel cables (33) are fixed, and an inner framework (34) that incorporates an inner glass panel (35); said outer glass panel (31), said intermediate framework (32) and said inner framework (34) being joined to one another: said system comprises modules (10) fixed on said cables (33); said modules (10) comprise a first outer structure (12); said first outer structure (12) comprises a frame-shaped square base (15) and at least one first wing (16); said at least one first wing (16) is movably connected to said frame-shaped square base (15) by means of a first hinge (20); characterized in that said first hinge (20) is made with a shape memory element with passive configuration.