PROJECTS: Self-Ventilating
By using solar energy, a thermobimetal system can be smartly designed to block the sun. This strategy is especially useful when trying to prevent solar heat gain and glare to enter a building, while using no energy and needing no controls.
InVert Auto-Shading Windows
Ongoing work with TBM-Designs LLC
Project Description
Various other building components for the market can also incorporate the material of thermobimetal. The metal can be cut into small pieces and assembled in a matrix of individual pieces that can operate like an organic shutter system and sandwiched between two panes of glass as part of a double-glazed window panel system. When the sun penetrates the exterior surface of glass and heats the interior cavity, the bimetal will curl and constrict light from passing. Depending on the brightness of the day, the bimetal shutter system can be calibrated to completely black-out the interior space, if necessary. Applied to a large sun-facing surface, this panel system can help reduce heat-gain, reduce the need for artificial air-conditioning, and conserve energy. Without the need for manual controls or power, this product can operate tirelessly, effortlessly and endlessly.
Numerous renditions are being developed. One system considers cutting various scales of interlocking patterns. The value to this type of system is its low cost in manufacturing. Other renditions improve action by
Credits and Information
MATERIALS: Thermobimetal, acrylic, IGU system
PROJECT TEAM: Doris Sung, Adelfrid Ramirez, Lisa Phillips, Julia Michalski, Wenjia Xu, Justin Kang, Michelle East, Esther Ho
FUNDING: Privately funded by TBM Designs LLC
U.S. Utility Patent 9,074,408 secured. With partners, Karen Sabath and Scott Horwitz, Doris Sung is developing and commercializing the design.