September 29, 2003—A team of researchers at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in New York has developed a new solar-powered, integrated window system that could significantly reduce dependency on the energy grid.
Designed to function as a shading system, the Dynamic Shading Window System uses a new solar-energy technology to convert the sun’s light and diverted heat into storable energy that can be used to also efficiently heat, cool, and artificially light the same office building. It is made of clear plastic panels that fit in between two panes of glass. On each panel are dozens of modules that track the motion of the sun. Sensors, embedded in the walls or the roof, ensure that the units are always facing the sun to capture all incoming rays while at the same time deflecting harsh, unwanted rays from a building’s interior.
Each unit holds a miniaturized photovoltaic cell used to collect light and heat that is then transferred into useable energy to run the motors, also embedded in the building’s interior walls. The remaining energy is used for heat, air conditioning, and artificial lighting. The surplus energy can be directly and automatically distributed through wires inside a building’s walls, or can be stored in a group of batteries, for later use.
The system can be incorporated into existing commercial buildings as well as new ones.
