A shading system that opens and closes independently, reacting to the climate without consuming energy. Is called Solar Gatea technological innovation born from the observation of nature and the collaboration between the University of Stuttgart and the University of Friborg. Inspired by the behavior of pine cones, the Solar Gate promises to improve the thermal comfort of buildings by minimizing the environmental impact.
These shading system is designed to adapt dynamically to Weather and seasonal conditions. Just like the pine cones, which open to disperse the seeds in dry conditions and close to protect them from humidity, the Solar Gate regulates the entry of the sun’s rays into the buildings based on the climate.
How it works
Unlike traditional mobile shading systems, which require electricity to work, the Solar Gate is completely autonomous. The secret of its operation lies in the use of a hydromorphic material, capable of reacting to the changes of humidity And temperature.
Achim Menges, director ofICD (Institute of Design and Computer Construction) of the University of Stuttgart, underlines that the Solar Gate, but relies entirely to cellulosea natural, renewable and abundant material. This innovative system uses the characteristics of the cellulose to create 4D printed panels, which imitate the sporophyl of pine cones.
When humidity increases, the panels expand, allowing sunlight to enter and heat the internal spaces. On the contrary, when the air is dry, the panels contract and close, protecting the buildings from direct sunlight and preventing overheating. This “intelligent” behavior makes the Solar Gate a sustainable solution and low energy impactideal for dealing with climatic challenges.
Field test
To evaluate the performance of Solar Gate, the system has been tested for a whole year at the Livmatsa demonstration building of the University of Freiburg. Here, the device was installed on a large window on display in the south, allowing to observe its reactivity at the different seasons.
During the winter, the panels opened, letting the sun’s rays enter to contribute to the natural heating of the interiors. In the summer, however, the panels closed, preventing the input of the heat and keeping the rooms fresh. The test results confirmed that the Solar Gate is not only effective, but also robust and durable, capable of resisting the stresses of time and faithfully reproducing the movements of the plants.
Thanks to these characteristics, the Solar Gate represents a valid alternative to traditional shading systems, offering a solution more ecological and completely self -sufficient.
