Automated shades help boost building efficiency (Video - part 2)

A daylighting system can save up to 70 percent in lighting costs for a building. An advanced, scientific, automated-shading system, SolarTrac by MechoSystems is designed to maximize natural daylight. The system increases energy efficiency while providing occupants with a comfortable environment and views to the outside.

SolarTrac automatically controls roller shades so they:

• Have the potential to deliver significant reductions in energy- peak demands over a project’s lifetime.

• Adjust to various positions
on the window, which are appropriate to the sun’s position in the sky, microclimatic sky conditions, and the building location, orientation, and geometry.

• Raise when windows are in shadow to maximize daylight and view.

• Lower when the sun is bright to increase comfort.

• Provide a view to the outside, even when lowered.

• Maximize daylight opportunities while providing a view to the outside when direct solar penetration occurs.

• Operate in tandem with other manufacturers’ electric-lighting controls, which adjust light levels based on the amount of daylight the shades allow into the space.