Smart windows, or switchable glass windows, are glass that makes use of advanced technology to block ultraviolet rays and insulate. These glass windows are designed to block sunlight. Buildings nowadays are constructed with fascinating architectural designs that give an amazing view of the city through their glass windows.
However, the downside to this is the sunlight that gets in, and though the view is quite breathtaking, still, you don’t want to be wiping off sweat from your forehead every time. But with smart windows installed, you will be able to have a fascinating view without the sunlight obstructing it.
These smart windows are the new solution for buildings that would like to give people an amazing view while still protecting them from harsh sunlight. Do you know that you can even control the smart window to give you a darker shade during the day? Well, this is all possible with switchable glass windows.
What Are Smart Windows?
Smart Windows, also known as switchable glasses, make use of advanced technologies to block light. The light transmission of smart windows can be affected by electricity, heat, or light. This means that the glass could change from translucent to transparent and block some wavelengths of light.
Smart windows can be installed in homes, schools, businesses, and institutions to control light and heat. It provides a safer environment and provides better and more profound solutions to control light than blinds, shades, curtains, or doors. They are installed in a window application.
How Does Smart Windows Work?
Smart windows work the same way other intelligent glass windows work. With smart windows, you can block light with just the click of a button. This light control system can be used to save money on heating, lighting, and cooling costs. Smart windows are installed in buildings or light controls and they create an adaptive building shield. By blocking the ultraviolet rays, the furniture in your office or home can be protected.
Switchable glass windows add a lot of benefits when they are installed in your building. You can be able to control the light during sunny days and turn up the heat during winter. However, before you can activate the features of a smart window, you must make use of smart film lamination on flat screen surfaces by using glass, acrylic laminates, or polycarbonates.
Types of Smart Windows
Smart windows come in a variety and you need to have information about them to know which one best suits your building. Here are some types of switchable glass windows:
Electrochromic Glass
This smart glass changes the properties of the glass by using electricity and controlling the amount of light and heat that is transmitted. As soon as the preferred opacity is set, there is no further need for electricity to maintain the glass. The changes to these smart glasses occur slowly. However, you can adjust the changes to your preference in the settings. The demerit of this electrochromic glass is that it affects the longevity of the glass.
Thermochromic Glass
This glass changes the heat when it is applied. This change occurs when the external temperature is above the thermochromic filter on the smart glass activities. This thereby causes the glass to change into a dart tint and blocks the heat and light while still maintaining clear views through the glass.
Micro-Blind Smart Glass
This type of smart glass controls the micro blinds and rolled metal blinds on the glass with electricity. When the blinds on the smart window unroll and flatten when an electric field is formed, once electricity is applied, this will block the light. This smart glass offers a profound level of privacy and it can be adjusted like other regular blinds to control the light.
Photochromic Window Tint
This smart window is just like electrochromic glass; it transfers light through the photochromic glass that is affected by external sources, except this time it is ultraviolet radiation. Photochromic Window Tint changes transparency when the light source also changes. This technology is usually seen in optical lenses.
Polymer-Disperse Liquid Crystal Glass
This technology dissolves liquid crystal on the glass, which hardens and forms droplets all through the polymer, making the glass appear milky. Once electricity is applied, the liquid crystals form and enable light to pass through parallel to suspended particle glass. This glass is commonly used in conference rooms, bathrooms, and ICU rooms in hospitals.
Suspended- Particle Glass
To block sunlight, some nanoparticles are randomly organized. Once electricity is applied, the suspended particles line up to enable light to pass through. The amount of light that passes depends on the varied voltage that gives total control to the user. The voltage for this glass can be controlled with photosensors, apps, a computer system, and detectors.
How Much Are Smart Windows?
If you are interested in these types of windows, you must be curious about how much they cost. Well, smart windows can range from $50 to $100 per square foot, and they can save you money in the long run. If you order a switchable window under 40 square feet, the price should be rounded to $130 per square foot.
Smart Windows App
There is a mobile application to manage your smart window right from your mobile device. Smart windows can be managed directly from your mobile phone. You can regulate the temperature and turn up the heat of your smart window all from your mobile device through the Smart Window App. The app is compatible with several devices and it is available on the Google Play store and the Apple App Store.
How Long Do Smart Glasses Last?
When buying a smart window from a glass company, the expected period of durability is 20 to 30 years. The smart windows are laminated and tampered with safely to ensure that they last a long time and they are made with high-quality products.
Do Smart Windows Require Electricity?
Some smart windows consume electricity, while others don’t. Windows like Electrochromic Glass consume electricity to control the amount of light and heat transmitted.