Sunlight Shielding with Switchable Smart Film
Intelligent Glass have installed Switchable Smart Film on existing metal-framed windows in a bedroom overlooking a garden at a newly-refurbished residential property in Scunthorpe, UK. The switchable smart film is 0.45mm thick and has been cut to fit the irregular shape of the existing ‘raked’ windows. It is powered by a small, low-voltage electric current (0.1 A/m2), supplied from an AC mains transformer. The film is switched using our RF remote control.
When the smart film is switched off (opaque), the light transmittance is reduced by 30%, and the infrared transmittance is approximately halved, meaning that any room heating caused by direct sunlight is significantly reduced. The residents can now enjoy a cooler bedroom on sunny days and will not need to rely on air-conditioning. Additionally, with the film switched to opaque, any direct blinding sunlight glare is diffused, and privacy is enhanced.
| Switchable Smart Film | On (Transparent) | Off (Opaque) |
|---|---|---|
| Light Transmittance | >88% | >60% |
| Infrared Transmittance | ~80% | ~40% |
| Haze Coefficient | <3% | >95% |
| Power Consumption | <5 Watts per m2 | 0 Watts per m2 |
Our installers survey the property in advance, taking measurements for the film which is cut by guillotine. During installation the film shape can be refined with scissors/blades for a perfect fit.
The switchable smart film has a self-adhesive layer for convenient application. If the film is removed it does not leave any residue. Our smart film also has a UV-protection layer.
Other Applications
- Commercial buildings: Switchable smart film can be used in commercial buildings to reduce cooling and heating costs. In the summer, the film can be switched to opaque mode to block the sun’s heat. This can help to keep the building cooler and reduce the need for air conditioning. In the winter, the film can be switched to transparent mode to allow in more sunlight. This can help to keep the building warmer and reduce the need for heating.
- Schools: Switchable smart film can be used in schools to provide students with a more comfortable and productive learning environment. In the summer, the film can be switched to opaque mode to block out the sun’s heat. This can help to keep the classrooms cooler and reduce the need for air conditioning. In the winter, the film can be switched to transparent mode to allow in more sunlight. This can help to keep the classrooms warmer and reduce the need for heating.
- Hospitals: Switchable smart film can be used in hospitals to provide patients with a more comfortable and private environment. In the summer, the film can be switched to opaque mode to block out the sun’s heat. This can help to keep patients cooler and reduce the need for air conditioning. In the winter, the film can be switched to transparent mode to allow in more sunlight. This can help to keep patients warmer and reduce the need for heating.
- Offices: Switchable smart film can be used in offices to create a more comfortable and productive work environment. In the summer, the film can be switched to opaque mode to block the sun’s heat and light. This can help to keep employees cooler, and reduce eye strain and the need for air conditioning. In the winter, the film can be switched to transparent mode to allow in more sunlight. This can help to keep employees warmer and reduce the need for heating.
Switchable smart film is a versatile and effective way to reduce energy consumption in a variety of settings. It is a sustainable and cost-effective solution that can help to save money on energy bills and improve the comfort and productivity of occupants.