We’re indeed living in a smart world. From ultra-intelligent phones, intuitive lighting that patterns itself to our lifestyles, and new-age home monitoring and heating/cooling systems, the market is ripe with a vast array of game-changing automation solutions. This trend is showing no signs of slowing down, and the newest thing to become smarter is something that many of us may never have considered – windows. Windows serve a vital role in our everyday lives, even if we never think about it. They’re a barrier to the elements, hold in heat and cool air, and provide natural light in our living and work spaces; however, they don’t always work the way we need them to. At certain points throughout the day, they may provide disproportionate amounts of light, causing potentially uncomfortable shifts in temperature, and rendering certain areas less than ideal for periods of time. Imagine having windows that adjusted to fit your needs, and worked in a way that is conducive to the lifestyles of those in spaces they service? Thanks to the well-funded start-up View, smart windows are becoming a reality.
View, which recently added over $150 million to their already large $500 million investment, is making dynamic glass powered by a sophisticated intelligence engine that responds intuitively to outside conditions, day or night. This type of customization and optimization of light helps to reduce glare, make the most of the daylight and provide energy savings. As well, you can reduce electricity usage by roughly 20% annually with these windows – huge savings. The windows can be controlled, monitored, scheduled – and audited for efficiency – from anywhere in the world, via a mobile app, which reduces reliance on individuals having to be physically at the location to make necessary adjustments. It also provides benefit to companies with more than one location, who may want to monitor or control multiple areas/spaces remotely.
Without a question, smart windows are a logical evolution. It’s interesting to imagine what other types of intricate “smart” development we can expect next. Perhaps, smart water modulation systems that monitor water usage? Regardless, smart windows are an excellent addition to every green developer’s arsenal, and it will only be a matter of time until they become widely available on a smaller scale/consumer level.
JohnAmardeil.com 