Energies: Building Applications, Opportunities and Challenges of Active Shading Systems: A State-Of-The-Art Review

energies
Review
Building Applications, Opportunities and Challenges
of Active Shading Systems: A State-Of-The-Art Review
Joud Al Dakheel and Kheira Tabet Aoul * ID
Architectural Engineering Department, United Arab Emirates University, P.O. Box 15551 Al Ain, UAE;
200935298@uaeu.ac.ae
* Correspondence: kheira.anissa@uaeu.ac.ae; Tel.: +971-566-433-648
Academic Editor: Arman Hashemi

Received: 28 June 2017; Accepted: 4 August 2017; Published: 23 October 2017
Abstract: Active shading systems in buildings have emerged as a high performing shading solution
that selectively and optimally controls daylight and heat gains. Active shading systems are
increasingly used in buildings, due to their ability to mainly improve the building environment,
reduce energy consumption and in some cases generate energy. They may be categorized into three
classes: smart glazing, kinetic shading and integrated renewable energy shading. This paper reviews
the current status of the different types in terms of design principle and working mechanism of
the systems, performance, control strategies and building applications. Challenges, limitations and
future opportunities of the systems are then discussed. The review highlights that despite its high
initial cost, the electrochromic (EC) glazing is the most applied smart glazing due to the extensive use
of glass in buildings under all climatic conditions. In terms of external shadings, the rotating shading
type is the predominantly used one in buildings due to its low initial cost. Algae façades and folding
shading systems are still emerging types, with high initial and maintenance costs and requiring
specialist installers. The algae façade systems and PV integrated shading systems are a promising
solution due to their dual benefits of providing shading and generating electricity. Active shading
systems were found to save 12 to 50% of the building cooling electricity consumption.
Keywords: active shading systems; kinetic shading devices; smart glazing; rotating shading systems;
folding shading systems; photovoltaic (PV); solar collector; algae façade system; controls
1. Introduction
Daylighting in buildings provides multidimensional benefits that have been widely reviewed in
the specialized literature [1]. The provision of daylight through building openings permits views to
the outdoors [2], which concurrently contributes to visual [3], psychological comforts [4], health [5],
and productivity [6]. Additionally, optimum daylighting design strategies reduce reliance on artificial
lighting and lessen energy consumption [7,8]. Although daylighting has many benefits, it has however
undesirable side effects such as heat gain and glare [9]. Therefore, successful daylighting designs
will consider the use of shading devices to reduce glare and excess heat gain in buildings [10].
Shading devices are used in buildings to provide a healthy balance by reducing the excessive glare
and heat gain and providing privacy [11].
1.1. Passive versus Active Shading Systems in Buildings

Fixed shading devices are a prominent feature in vernacular architecture. They are often
designed in response to environmental conditions using locally available materials such as clay,
tree branches, concrete, wood planks, bamboo and others to shade the buildings from direct
sunlight [12–15]. The modern architectural movement dismissed these strategies until the 1970
Energies 2017, 10, 1672; doi:10.3390/en10101672 www.mdpi.com/journal/energies

Energies 2017, 10, 1672 2 of 32
energy crisis, which triggered a renewed interest in passive design strategies as well as pressing for
advanced solutions [16].
Conventional static passive shading devices are often categorized first as internal or external
based on location of the system [11]. The performance of shading devices including overhangs [17],
external roller shades [18], Venetian blinds [19] and internal shadings [20] were investigated in several
studies. Furthermore, fixed external shading devices have been widely known as an effective way
of controlling heat gain and glare in buildings and reducing cooling energy and cost reductions in
different climatic conditions [21–23]. By comparison, external shading devices are more effective than
internal shading devices since they are more efficient in decreasing the cooling loads of buildings in
hot climate regions [11]. Fixed shading devices have, however, their limitations, the most important of
which is their inability to adapt to the external conditions variations as well as blocking the view to
the outside [24].
At the other end of the spectrum, active shading strategies try to achieve a balance between
sufficient daylighting levels, providing solar protection, energy balance and enabling the occupants
with the flexibility to control the shading devices according to their evolving needs [25]. Active shading
devices are systems that tend to change their properties in response to exterior climate and interior
requirements [26]. The use of active shading systems decreases the undesirable solar heat gain,
increase daylight, provide control for the users, may generate on-site energy and increase the use
of natural ventilation [25,27,28]. The active systems can be within the glazing of the openings
or as an exterior shading system. This is usually achieved through the use of smart glazing
technologies [29–31], sensors and control systems [32,33], or through the application of smart dynamic
shading devices [34,35].
1.2. Aim of the Review Paper and Objective

The main objective of this paper is to establish the extent of knowledge acquired on the subject
through a review of the different emerging types of active shading systems and their applications
in buildings. The three major types of active shading systems are reviewed; smart glazing systems,
automated active (or kinetic) shading systems and shading systems that incorporate renewable energy.
The types of control systems and mechanism used in active shading systems were then reviewed,
as they are different and have implications on performance. Finally, the review assesses their potential,
limitations and opportunities for further development and improvement.
The search process consisted of identifying studies with a search strategy across Science-Direct
database and Google Scholar. The initial search keywords used were active shading systems,
smart glazing, kinetic shading systems, integrated renewable energy and shading systems and it
yielded more than 500 papers. However, the papers that were eligible after pre-selection focused
on electrochromic (EC) glazing, suspended particle devices (SPDs), liquid crystal devices (LCDs),
rotating shading systems, folding shading systems, PV integrated shading systems, algae façade
systems and solar collector integrated shading systems. Further focused search considered the types of
shading systems along the following related keywords; design principles, types, working mechanism,
performances and application in buildings and resulted in a 165 direct relevant papers investigated in
this review.
2. Active Shading Systems

Active or responsive shading systems, also called dynamic or kinetic shading systems, are often
designed to respond to one or multiple environmental situations including: daylighting control [36],
solar thermal control, ventilation control, and in addition sometimes energy generation [37,38].
The application of active shading systems is an important step towards improving the energy
efficiency in the built environment [39]. By using active shading systems, buildings tend to adapt to
evolving external conditions [39,40]. These systems can allow or block solar radiation access into the
interior space by adjusting a device installed either inside or on the building skin.
Energies 2017, 10, 1672 3 of 32
Active shading systems can be classified into three main categories: the first one comprises: (i) the
glazing in the form of smart glazing or as (ii) kinetic external shading devices or as (iii) shading
devices that incorporate renewable energy generation. These main systems are the target of this review.
First, smart glazing devices include suspended particle devices (SPDs), electrochromic (EC) devices and
Energies 2017, 10, 1672 3 of 31
liquid crystal devices (LCDs). The second type of active shading is the kinetic external shading systems.
This review considers mechanically movable dynamic shading systems which include the rotating
include the rotating and folding shading systems. The third type is the integrated renewable energy
and folding shading systems. The third type is the integrated renewable energy shading systems.
shading The systems. Theofintegration
integration of renewable
renewable energy energy
can be achieved bycan
usingbephotovoltaic
achieved by using
panels (PV)photovoltaic
attached on panels
(PV) attached on shading
shading devices devices
[41], or by [41],façade
using algae or by using
systems algae
which façade electricity
can generate systems [42],which can generate
or through
solar collectors attached on shading systems [43]. The active shading systems
electricity [42], or through solar collectors attached on shading systems [43]. The active types reviewed in this shading
study are shown in Figure 1.
systems types reviewed in this study are shown in Figure 1.
Figure
Figure 1. Active
1. Active shading systems
shading systems classification diagram.
classification diagram
2.1. Smart Glazing Systems

2.1. Smart Glazing Systems
Windows with dynamic optical properties are a form of building shade. Smart glass, often called
Windows with dynamic
smart windows, is definedoptical
to be theproperties
glass whose are lightatransmission
form of building propertiesshade. Smart
are altered glass,
when often called
voltage,
smart windows,
light or heatisisdefined
applied, by tochanging
be the fromglasstranslucent
whose light transmission
to transparent [44]. properties are altered when
voltage, lightTheorfunction
heat is of applied, by changing
a smart window fromthe
is to control translucent
transmissiontooftransparent
light into and [44].
out of the glazing
Thesystem, according
function of a smartto occupants’
window comfort. Smart windows
is to control can also regulate
the transmission lighting
of light and
into andheating
out oflevels
the glazing
for energy load management. Smart glass technologies include SPDs, EC devices and LCDs [45].
system, according to occupants’ comfort. Smart windows can also regulate lighting and heating levels
Installing smart glass in buildings’ envelope, is similar to creating climate adaptable building shells,
for energy loadcosts
in which management. Smartand
for heating, cooling glass technologies
lighting include
are reduced [46,47]. SPDs, ECsmart
Additionally, devices and LCDs [45].
glass prevents
Installing smart
99.4% glass in buildings’
of ultraviolet envelope,
light, which reduces is similar
furniture to creating
and curtain climate
fabric fading adaptable
[44,45]. The three building
systems shells,
in which costs for heating, cooling and lighting are reduced [46,47]. Additionally, smart glass
require transparent conductors as electrical contacts.
prevents 99.4% SPDsof tend to rapidly switch
ultraviolet light, from
which a dark bluish-black
reduces furniturestate toanda clear greyish
curtain appearance
fabric fadingwhen [44,45]. The
voltage is applied to control the amount of light, glare and heat passing through [48].
three systems require transparent conductors as electrical contacts.
The EC devices use a technology that utilizes an electrical voltage to control the amount of
SPDs tend
light to rapidly
passing through switch
the glassfrom a dark
[49]. ECs offerbluish-black state to a control
dynamic and responsive clear greyish appearance
that responds to the when
voltage is applied
external to control
changing conditionsthe and
amount
controlsof visible
light, transmittance,
glare and heat passing
reduce glare andthrough
improve[48].
indoor light
Theenvironment
EC deviceswhen use compared
a technology that and
to regular utilizes
low-Ean electrical
glass. voltage
Additionally, when to control
comparedthe amount
to the fixed of light
shading devices, they offer a dynamic solar radiation and do not block
passing through the glass [49]. ECs offer dynamic and responsive control that responds to the external the view [49,50].
LCDs use liquid crystals that dissolve into a liquid polymer they will, in turn, solidify. The liquid
changing conditions and controls visible transmittance, reduce glare and improve indoor light
crystals are randomly arranged in the droplets, resulting in scattering of light as it passes through the
environment when compared
smart window assembly and to forming
regularaand low-Efilm
translucent glass.
[51].Additionally, when compared to the fixed
shading devices, they offerofa smart
The performance dynamic solar
glazing radiation
is first evaluatedand do not
through block the view
the transmittance [49,50].range
modulation
LCDs use
in the liquid
visible andcrystals
whole solar thatspectrum.
dissolveSecondly,
into a liquid polymer
the expected they
lifetime andwill, in turn,
number solidify.
of achieved cyclesThe liquid
is considered. Finally, its size as the larger the devices, the longer the switching
crystals are randomly arranged in the droplets, resulting in scattering of light as it passes through the time for coloration and
smart window assembly and forming a translucent film [51].
The performance of smart glazing is first evaluated through the transmittance modulation range
in the visible and whole solar spectrum. Secondly, the expected lifetime and number of achieved
cycles is considered. Finally, its size as the larger the devices, the longer the switching time for
coloration and bleaching of the glass [45]. Smart glazing acts differently during the transparent and
Energies 2017, 10, 1672 4 of 32
bleaching of the glass [45]. Smart glazing acts differently during the transparent and opaque phases to
control the transmitted solar radiation.
The design principle, types, working mechanism, diagrams, special features and benefits of the
three types of smart glazing are summarized in Table 1.
The performance of smart glazing devices is indicated by several factors, such as the electrical,
optical and thermal properties that depend on the structural composition and configuration of the EC
device itself. Typically, the required performance parameters include the specification of: (1) switching
speed; (2) switching voltage; (3) optical reflectance; (4) color rendering; (5) solar heat gain coefficient;
(6) optical memory coefficients; (7) thermal transmittance; (8) optical transmittance coefficients; (9)
lifetime and (10) operating temperature [44,52]. The performance of the three types of smart glazing
systems is summarized in Table 2 according to the climatic conditions while highlighting the main
variables addressed in the studies.
Energies 2017, 10, 1672 5 of 32
Table 1. Summary of smart glazing types.
System Electrochromic Glazing (EC) Suspended Particle Devices (SPDs) Liquid Crystal Devices (LCDs)
• EC glazing is 1µm thick of purely ionic • SPDs consist of 3–5 layers by which the
conductor placed between electrochromic active layer contains needle-shaped dipolar • LCD consist of liquid crystal material
and counter electrode layers that are placed particles of polyiodides [54]. positioned between two sheets of glass [56].
Design between transparent electrical conductor • Particles are less than 1 µm in linear size [55]. • LCD has field sequential color displays that
Principle layers [53]. uses red (R), green (G), and blue (B) light
• The size of the particles is usually less than
• Change optical properties by switching 200 nm to minimize light scattering and emitting diodes (LEDs) without noticeable
between their oxidized and reduced avoid non-desired haze [48]. color breakup [57].
forms [45].
• Conventional Electrochromic (CEC) • Polymer-stabilized blue phase (PSBP) [62].
glazing [58]. • Polymer-dispersed LC (PDLC) reported [63].
Types and • NIR switching electrochromic (NEC) • Evacuated vacuum SPD [61]. • Liquid crystal on silicon (LCoS) displays [64].
Materials glazing [59]. • Optically isotropic LC (OILC) [62].
• “Dual-band” electrochromic (DBEC) [60]. • Gel dispersed liquid crystals (GDLC).
• Liquid crystal molecules are aligned in

• EC glazing has a visible light transmission of • During the “off” state, the SPDs are parallel with the glass surface [56].
62% and allows 47% of the incident solar randomly oriented and absorb/scatter • When voltage is applied, the direction is
energy to the building interior in the clear visible light [48]. changed and they become vertical to the
state [52]. • Then SPD shows a bluish-black dark color. glass surface.
• Amount of incident solar energy going • The scattering effect is due to the particles • Then light passes through the droplets with
Working inside the building is reduced by 81% when and is most prominent at short wavelengths. very little scattering and resulting in a
Mechanism a low DC voltage is applied [65]. • During the “on” state the electric field is transparent state.
• Solar irradiation is absorbed when the films applied and the particles line up • The quantity of light transmission can be
are tinted. perpendicularly to the substrates. controlled by combining the motion of liquid
• Thermal energy is re-radiated based on the • Then, more light is allowed to pass through crystal molecules and the direction of
emissivity’s of the films and the glass [65]. to increase the transmission [48]. polarization of two polarizing plates
attached to the both outer sides of the glass
sheets [56].
• Conventional
• Conventional
• Conventional Electrochromic
Electrochromic
Electrochromic(CEC) (CEC)
glazing
(CEC) glazing
[58]. [58].
[58].
glazing • Polymer-dispersed
• Polymer-dispersed
• Polymer-dispersed LC (PDLC)
LC (PDLC) LC (PDLC)
reported
reported reported
[63]. [63]. [63].
Types andTypes
Types and • and
NIR
• NIR• switching
NIR switching
switching electrochromic
electrochromic
electrochromic(NEC) (NEC)
glazing
(NEC) glazing
[59].
glazing [59]. [59]. • Evacuated
• Evacuated vacuum
• Evacuated vacuum
SPD
vacuum SPD [61].
[61].[61].
SPD • Liquid •crystal
• Liquid Liquid
on crystal
crystal silicon
on siliconon silicon
(LCoS)(LCoS) (LCoS)
displays
displays displays
[64]. [64]. [64].
Materials Materials
Materials • “Dual-band”
• “Dual-band” electrochromic
electrochromic
• “Dual-band” electrochromic(DBEC) (DBEC)
[60]. [60].
[60].
(DBEC) • isotropic
• Optically
• Optically Optically
isotropic isotropic
LC (OILC)
LC (OILC) LC (OILC)
[62]. [62]. [62].
• Gel
• Gel •dispersed
dispersedGel dispersed
liquid liquid
crystals
liquid crystals crystals
(GDLC).
(GDLC). (GDLC).
• Liquid
• •crystal
Liquid Liquid crystal
molecules
crystal molecules molecules
are aligned
are are
alignedin aligned
parallel in
in parallel parallel
with with with
• During
• During• During
the “off” the
state,
the “off” “off” state,
the SPDs
state, the SPDs the SPDs
are randomly are
are randomly randomly
oriented oriented
oriented
• EC • EC
• glazing
EC glazing glazing
has a visible
has haslight
a visiblea visible light transmission
transmission
light transmission of 62% andof
of 62% 62% and
and the the
glass thesurface
surface
glass glass surface
[56]. [56]. [56].
andand and absorb/scatter
absorb/scatter
absorb/scatter visible light
visible visible light [48].
[48].[48].
light
allows
Energies 2017, 10, 1672 47%allows
allows 47% of47%
of the of thesolar
incident
the incident incident
energy
solar solar energy
to the
energy to the building
to building
the building • When
• When • voltage
When
voltage voltage
is applied, isthe
is applied, applied,
direction theisdirection
the direction changed isand
is changed changed
and and 6 of 32
• Then
• Then • SPD
SPD Then
shows SPD
shows shows
a bluish-blacka bluish-black
a bluish-blackdarkdark
color. dark color.
color.
interior in interior
the clear in the
state clear
[52].
interior in the clear state [52]. state [52]. theythey
become they
become become
vertical
verticalto vertical
the
to glass tosurface.
the glass thesurface.
glass surface.
• The • The
scattering scattering
effect is effect
due to is
the due to
particlestheandparticles
is most and
• isThe scattering effect is due to the particles and is most • Then lightis most
Working
Working • Amount
Working• Amount• ofAmount
incident ofsolar
of incident incident
energy
solar solar
energy energy
going inside
going going
the inside
inside building
the theisbuilding
building is prominent • Then • light
Then
passes light
passes passes
throughthrough through
the droplets thewith
the droplets droplets withlittle
veryvery
with little very little
prominent
prominentat short atwavelengths.
short wavelengths.
wavelengths.
at short
MechanismMechanism
Mechanism reduced
reducedbyreduced
81% when
by 81% by 81%
whena lowawhenDC DC
low a low
voltage DC voltage
is applied
voltage is applied
[65].
is applied [65]. [65]. scattering scattering
andand
scattering resulting andin
resultingresulting
ain in a transparent
transparent
a transparent state.state. state.
• During•theDuring
“on”“on” thestate
state “on”
the state
1. electric the electric
field isfield
is applied is
andapplied
and •andThe quantity
• Solar • irradiation
Solar irradiation
irradiation
• Solar is absorbed iswhen
is absorbed absorbed
when when
the the
films thetinted.
are
films films
are are tinted. • During the Table
tinted. Cont.
the electric field applied
• The•quantity
Theofquantity
light oftransmission
light transmission
transmission
of light can can be can
be controlled be controlled
by by
controlled by
theline
the particles particles
the particles upline up perpendicularly
up perpendicularly
line perpendicularly to the to the substrates.
to substrates.
the substrates.
• Thermal • Thermal
energy is energy
re-radiated is re-radiated
based on based
the on the
emissivity’s
• Thermal energy is re-radiated based on the emissivity’s of • Then, more emissivity’s
of of combining
combiningcombining
the motion
the motion the
of motion
liquid
of liquid of liquid
crystal crystal
molecules
crystal moleculesmolecules
andand and
• Then,
light more
is light
allowed is
toallowed
pass to
throughpass
• Then, more light is allowed to pass through to increase tothrough
increase to increase
the films andthe the
films and
glass the[65].
[65]. glass [65]. the directiontheofdirection
polarizationof polarization
of twotwo of two polarizing
polarizing plates plates
plates
System the films and theElectrochromic
glass Glazing (EC) theSuspended
the transmission [48].[48]. Particle
transmission
the transmission [48]. Devices (SPDs) the direction of polarization
Liquid CrystalofDevices polarizing
(LCDs)
attached toattached
attached the
to both toouter
the both theouter
both
sides outer
of the
sides ofsides
glass ofsheets
the glass thesheets
glass
[56].sheets
[56]. [56].
Composition
Composition
Composition
Composition
Diagram Diagram
Diagram
Diagram
SPDSPD inSPD
in SPD
“off” inin
and
“off” “off”
“on”
“off”
and andstates
states
and
“on” “on” states
[48][48]
“on” [48]
Reproduced
states Reproduced
[48] with
Reproduced with with [56] Reproduced
Reproduced
[52][52] [52]Reproduced
[52]
Reproduced Reproduced
withwith
Reproduced withwith
permission from
permission permission
permission
from from
Elsevier from
Elsevier
and
Elsevier and Elsevier
and
CopyrightCopyright
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Reproduced with
with
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the
permission permission
permission
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permission from from
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Display
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• Applied on large-size glazing [66].

• Switching speed is influenced by
• There is no memory effect for the optical
environmental conditions and glazing area. • At opaque state, LCD glazing scatters the
properties and the electric field must be
The coloring takes longer time than light, become haze, and provides no control
maintained for keeping the SPD
bleaching [53,67]. of Near-IR [44].
transparent [48].
• Electrically actuated EC glazing absorbs • Operating voltages are in the range of
• The light transmission of SPDs is controlled
Infra-red spectrum of solar radiation [68]. 20–100 Vrms to maintain the clear state of the
Special by the application of high amplitude
• The higher the glazing surface temperature, device [73].
Features alternating current voltage (AC) [48].
the lower the power required to switch [69]. • This technology is used in interior and
• Controls only the visible solar spectrum and
• A typical EC have visible transmission of exterior settings for privacy control.
transmit Infra-red (IR) spectrum [44].
Tv = 0.65 − 0.50 and fully colored • The visible transmittance range is typically
• Over all heat transfer of 5.9 W/m2 K [71].
transmittance of Tv = 0.25 − 0.10 [44]. 50–80% and the solar heat gain coefficient
• Solar heat gain coefficient change from 0.05
• The shading coefficient (SC) is about (SHGC) is 0.55–0.69 [74].
to 0.38 [72].
SC = 0.67 − 0.60 for the bleached condition,
and SC = 0.30 − 0.18 for the fully colored
condition [70].
Energies 2017, 10, 1672 7 of 32
Table 1. Cont.
System Electrochromic Glazing (EC) Suspended Particle Devices (SPDs) Liquid Crystal Devices (LCDs)
• Requires power only during switching,

• SPD glazing is the most suitable among other
where they consume a low voltage to switch
types of glazing for building application.
usually 1–5 V.
• Can connect directly with AC main power
• Constant dimming and most designs have
supply without the need for conversion
long-term memory usually 12–48 h [44,53]. • Recent advances in next-generation LCDs
system (EC glazing requires an AC to DC
• Has a low energy consumption, usually with a fast response time [77].
inverter to connect with mains) [76].
8 W/m2 , and becomes almost zero when • Controls solar heat gain due to its variable • OILC use makes wide viewing angle without
Benefits they are kept at constant conditions, due to an alignment layer [77]. Optical response
transparency [72].
their considerable open circuit memory [75]. times are around 1–3 s, which is less than EC
• Facilitates switchable single or double
• Coloration phases are virtually infinite and glazing systems [71]. devices [48].
are capable of blocking both direct and
diffuse solar radiation [52]. Improves the Optical response times are around 1–3 s,
daylighting of buildings and offices, which which is the same range as for LCD devices
leads to significant cost savings and improve and less than EC devices [48].
labor productivity [50].
Energies 2017, 10, 1672 8 of 32
Table 2. Performance of smart glazing types according to climatic conditions.
Parameters Performance of EC Performance of SPDs Performance of LCDs

• Response time
Variable • U-Value
• Energy saving • Material and optical transmittance
addressed • Switching Power
• Haze coefficient
• Glass gel-dispersed liquid crystal (GDLC) which has

high quality electro-optical behavior was investigated in
• Using a thermally insulated test cell yielded a U-value order to overcome the limitations of regular PDLC at
of 5.9 W/m2 K in cold climate in Ireland [71]. While the cold climate in South Korea and showed a fast response
use of low heat loss switchable SPD glazing offered a time of ~0.5 and 3 ms which is 10 times shorter than that
• Large-size EC windows facing south-east, low overall U-value, which varied between 1.00 and of PDLC, respectively for the on and off processes, high
used in a building in Oakland, California 1.16 W/m2 K in Ireland [61]. contrast and low haziness [78].
during winter was tested and the result • Gosh et al. (2016) also tested the potential of powering • The use of films of silver nanowires was investigated by
showed that on a clear winter day, the SPD glazing from photovoltaic device and found that Khaligh et al. (2015) in Ontario, Canada as an alternate
Cold climatic average window luminance exceeded 850 for a 1 m2 of SPD glass under cold climatic conditions in electrode material to the PDLC [79]. It was found that
conditions cd/m2 and the lighting energy was Dublin the switching power consumption is 10.42 kWh the material and fabrication costs of silver nanowire
reduced by 6–24% in the 11% glazing, which can be supplied by 1 W PV. Thus, there is a films are lower than ITO and enable transparency of
while the energy was 3% reduced when potential combination for SPD and PV for future low ∆Ton – off = 57% versus ∆Ton – off = 46% for the
13% glazing was used [53]. building annual energy consumption [76]. A 40 Wp PV ITO-based devices and a lower voltage supply [79].
device continuously powered a 0.07 W SPD glazing. • A 20 µm commercial PDLC layer has been developed in
Low sizing ratio of 1.12 between PV and inverter South Korea between ITO coated polyester films to
offered less power losses from inverter output [76]. achieve a device with haze coefficient changing from
0.09 to 0.90. The device exhibits good temperature
stability between 0 and 60 ◦ C [80].
Variable • Power and energy consumption • U-values and SHGC • Light transmittance
addressed • Transmittance reflectance, color appearance and haze.
• It was claimed by Gosh et al. (2016) that high U-values

and variable SHGC makes the SPD glazing to be
suitable for summer. • The light-controlled transmittance in a
• EC devices can lead to a 30% reduction in • (SHGC) varied between 0.05 (when opaque) and 0.38 polymer-dispersed liquid crystals (PDLC) device was
the annual power consumption and in (when transparent) and U-value varied between investigated by Cupelli et al. (2009) during warm
Warm and hot peak demand by 23% in large area 5.02 W/m2 K and 5.2 W/m2 K for the two states and climate in Calabria, Italy. It was claimed to self-increase
climatic buildings in hot climatic conditions [81]. showed 6 kW h cooling load reduction [72]. scattering as a function of the light intensity and
conditions • Up to 50% of the primary energy • Total and diffuse components of transmittance and self-control the incident daylight and glare as a function
consumed in air-conditioning is saved by reflectance, along with color appearance and haze were of incident intensity both in building and automotive
the use of EC windows [82]. used in model calculations to predict the thickness of applications [83].
the active layer during summer period and showed
thicknesses of 200–300 µm as most optimum for
SPD-based smart window applications [48].
Energies 2017, 10, 1672 9 of 32
Table 2. Cont.
Parameters Performance of EC Performance of SPDs Performance of LCDs
Variable • Energy consumption

- -
addressed • Energy savings
• The energy consumption of EC windows

was tested in cold and hot climates in two
prototype buildings in Chicago and
Houston. The results suggested that the
annual peak electric demand was reduced
by 7–8% for moderate-area windows and
by 14–16% for large-area windows in
either climates [46].
• The performance of near-infrared
switching electrochromic (NEC) window
glazing was tested, using the COMFEN
software to simulate a broad range of
NEC performance levels, for commercial
and residential buildings in 16 climatic
Mixed climatic
variations-representative reference cities. - -
conditions
The results showed an annual HVAC
energy savings up to 11.6% with potential
as high as 11 kWh/m2 per year for
commercial buildings, and up to 13% with
15 kWh/m2 per year for residential over
the highest performing static glazing [84].
• EnergyPlus software was used to simulate
annual energy performance of the
dual-band electrochromic (DBEC) glazing
and indicated that DBEC is capable of
achieving annual primary energy savings
between 64.5 and 322.9 kWh/m2 of
window area from reduced heating,
cooling, and lighting demand [58].
Energies 2017, 10, 1672 10 of 32
2.2. Kinetic External Shading Systems

Kinetic shading systems follow the same concept as dynamic facades and were introduced to
satisfy some of the energy characteristics of the building envelope. The Lawrence Berkeley National
Laboratory (LBNL) in the U.S. describes kinetic shading systems (dynamic façades) as systems that
enable a building to reduce its lighting and cooling loads [85]. The development of these systems was
a response to the growing awareness of energy reduction in buildings. Their adaptability offers
the potential to achieve an energy-efficient environment, improve the comfort, balances indoor
environmental quality (IEQ), such as, reduced glare, view to outside, privacy, thermal comfort and air
quality and increase satisfaction and productivity of the occupants while minimizing the energy cost
and environmental impact [86–88].
The systems move in response to mechanical, chemical or electrical stimuli by which folding,
sliding, expanding, shrinking and transforming in the shading devices take place [89].
The development of kinetic facades presented in the literature are mainly concerned with the
functional possibilities and enabling technology [37]. The mechanism in the kinetic shading depends
on mechanical, chemical and electrical engineering where folding, sliding, expanding, shrinking and
transforming in the shading devices takes place [89,90]. In this literature review the dominant types;
rotating and folding shading systems have been explored.
2.2.1. Rotating Shading Systems

(a) Design Principle and Performance
As discussed earlier, rotating shading systems consist of a shading device made of either glass,
metal, fabric or timber and is designed to rotate around either a horizontal or vertical axis depending
on the position of its slates [91].
Glass lamella device have a better utilization of daylight over other systems [92]. The rotational
movement of kinetic facades creates slow responses on every panel of the facade, which prevents any
noise or distraction for the building’s occupants throughout the day [88]. The influence of external
dynamic louvers with light dimming strategies in an office building at hot and humid climate in
Abu Dhabi, UAE was explored. The results showed that the dynamic louvers with inclination angle
of −20◦ for the south had 30.31% energy savings, while with a 20◦ inclination angle for the east and
west orientations the savings were 34.02% and 28.57%, respectively [93]. Similarly, a new double skin
façade with movable integrated shading louvers was investigated and showed that during the entire
year the proposed façade significantly improved the building energy behavior, especially when the
winter configuration forced convection was considered [94].
The cooling and heating energy savings of four types of kinetic façade systems; the overhang,
folding, horizontal louver, and vertical louver were investigated by Kensek and Hansanuwat (2011)
at hot climate in California in U.S. It was found out that the most optimal shades are overhang and
horizontal louvers and were able to rotate for 90 degrees, and decreased the energy consumption by
33% for cooling and 30% for heating [95].
(b) Material
The rotating shading devices are made of different materials, but predominantly use:
(i) glass louvers, (ii) metal louvers and (iii) timber louvers. Examples of building applications with
their performance are illustrated in Table 3.
(c) Carrier system of the shading device
The carrier system of the shading device may vary depending on the application type, the size of
the louver and the span (Table 4).
Energies 2017, 10, 1672 11 of 32
Energies 2017, 10, 1672 9 of 31
Energies 2017, 10, 1672 9 of 31

Table 3. Application of materials of external shading systems.
Table 3. Application of materials of external shading systems.
Material
Material GlassRotating
Glass Rotating
Table Shading
Shading Systemof[96,97]
System
3. Application [96,97] Reproduced
Reproduced
materials with
with
of external the Permission
the
shading Permission from COLT
systems. from COLT Company,
Company, 2017.
2017.
Material Glass Rotating Shading System [96,97] Reproduced with the Permission from COLT Company, 2017.
Building
Building application
application example
example
Building application example
European
European Commission
Commission Headquarters,
Headquarters, Brussels
Brussels
The façade was renovated using glass rotating systems which respond to the changes in light intensity and temperature. It is a
Shading system design description The façade
European was renovated
Commission using glassBrussels
Headquarters, rotating systems which respond to the changes in light intensity and temperature. It
Shading system design description solar-controlled glassglass
with highhigh
reflectance coatings.
Theis afaçade
solar-controlled with reflectance coatings.
Shading system design description • Reduces solar heat gain and cooling loads. systems which respond to the changes in light intensity and temperature. It is a
was renovated using glass rotating
solar-controlled
•• Primary
Reduces glass
solar
energy withgain
heat highand
consumption reflectance
ofcooling coatings.
loads.
the building was reduced by 50% lower than a similar building as modeled.
Benefits • ••Reduces solar
Primary heat gain
energy andglass
cooling
consumption of loads.
the building was reduced by 50% lower than a similar building as modeled.
Views are available when louvers are in use.
Benefits • ••Primary
Benefits be energy
CanViews arein
used consumption
available when
residential of the louvers
glass
buildings building was
are
and mass in reduced
use.
housing. by 50% lower than a similar building as modeled.
Material • Metal
•Views Canare
beavailable
used in when glass
residential louvers
buildings are
andin use.
mass housing.
rotating shading device [97,98] Reproduced with the permission from COLT company, 2017.
• Can be used in residential buildings and mass housing.
Material
Material Metal rotating
Metal rotating shading
shading device
device [97,98]Reproduced
[97,98] Reproducedwith withthe
thepermission
permissionfrom
fromCOLT
COLTcompany,
company,2017.
2017.
Building
Building application
application example
example
Zurich Airport, Switzerland

• Perforated metal rotating shading system was used to reduce the extensive use of glass over the large area to avoid excessive
Shading system design description Zurich
heatAirport,
Zurich Airport,
gain Switzerland
Switzerland
within the building.
• • Perforated metal
The system rotates rotating shading
in response tosystem
changingwas used to
climate reduce the
conditions extensive
and use
available of glass over the large area to avoid excessive
daylight.
Shading system design description •heat Perforated
gain within metal
the rotating shading system was used to reduce the extensive use of glass over the large area to avoid
building.
• Reductions
excessiveinheat
cooling
gain loads
withinand
the glare.
building.climate conditions and available daylight.
Shading system design description
Benefits • • The
• Cansystem
The
rotates
be used
system
in response
in rotates
residential to changing
buildings
in response to and mass climate
changing housing.conditions and available daylight.
Material • Anodized
Reductions in coolingshading
aluminum loads and glare.
device [99] Reproduced with the permission from COLT company, 2017.
Benefits
• Can be used in residential buildings and mass housing.
• Reductions in cooling loads and glare.
Benefits
Material Anodized
• Canaluminum
be used in shading
residentialdevice [99] Reproduced
buildings with the permission from COLT company, 2017.
and mass housing.
Energies 2017, 10, 1672 12 of 32
Table 3. Cont.
Energies 2017, 10, 1672 10 of 31
Material Anodized aluminum shading device [99] Reproduced with the permission from COLT company, 2017.

University of
University of Potsdam,
Potsdam, Germany
Germany
Shading system design description Vertically folding shutters which open and closed according to the position of the sun.
Shading system design description Vertically folding shutters which open and closed according to the position of the sun.
• Dynamic and variable according to the weather situation.
Benefits • Aesthetical kinetic appearance for the building.
• Reduction in cooling energy and glare from direct sunlight.
Benefits • Dynamic and variable according to the weather situation.

• Table
Aesthetical kinetic 4. Carrier
appearance forsystems of shading device.
the building.
Carrier Diagram Description Application
Suitable for use with a variety of louver materials
including glass, metal, fabric and timber wood.
Intended for wider spans, carrier system 1

System 1: Straight incorporates a central aluminum torsion tube
carrier bracket [100] along the entire length of the louver, and is ideal
for continuous facades, as well as for roofs.
University of Potsdam, Germany
Shading system design description Vertically folding shutters
University whichGermany
of Potsdam, open and closed according to the position of the sun.
• Dynamic
Shading system design description and variable according to the open
Vertically folding shutters which weather
andsituation.
closed according to the position of the sun.
Energies 2017, 10, 1672 Benefits • Aesthetical kineticand
• Dynamic appearance for the building.
variable according to the weather situation.
13 of 32
Benefits • Reduction in coolingkinetic
• Aesthetical energyappearance
and glare from direct
for the sunlight.
building.
Table 4. Carrier
Table 4.systems of shading
Carrier systems device.
of shading device.
Carrier Diagram Table 4. Carrier systems of shading device.

Description Application
Carrier Diagram Description Application
Carrier Diagram Description Suitable for use with a variety of louver materials
Application
Suitable forglass,
including use with a variety of louver materials
Suitablemetal,
for usefabric
with and timber
a variety of wood.
louver materials
Intended
IntendedIntended
for wider for wider spans,system
spans, carrier system
for widercarrier
spans, carrier1system 1
System 1: Straight 1 incorporates
incorporates a central a central aluminum
aluminum torsion tube
System
System 1: Straight carrier 1: Straight
bracket [100] incorporates a central
torsion tube along the aluminum
entire lengthtorsion
of tube
carrier bracket
carrier [100]
bracket [100] along thealong
entire length
the entireof the louver, and is ideal
the louver, and islength
ideal of
forthe louver,
continuous and is ideal
for continuous
for facades, facades,
continuous as well as asfor roofs.
well as for roofs.
facades, as well as for roofs.
Energies 2017, 10, 1672 11 of 31
Energies 2017, 10, 1672 11 of 31
EnergiesEnergies
2017, 10,2017,
167210, 1672 11 of 3111 of 31
including
Suitable glass,
for metal,
usefor
with fabric and timber materials
wood.
Suitable usea with
variety of louver
a variety of louver materials
Suitable
includingfor use
glass,with a
metal, variety
fabric of
and louver
timbermaterials
wood. wood.
including glass, metal, fabric and timber
Intended for shorter spans or where frequent including glass, metal, fabric and timber wood.
Intended for shorter spans or where frequent
anchor support points are available.
anchor support
Intended points are available.
forshorter
shorter spans
System 2: Bracket Intended for shorter
ItIntended
provides for spans
minimum or where
spans ororwhere
obstruction where
frequent
fromfrequent
the
System 2: Bracket It provides
anchor minimum
frequent
support anchorobstruction
pointsusedaresupport from the
points
available. are
carrier [100] anchor
louver sosupport
when pointswithareglass
available.
louvers it
carrier
System 2: [100]
Bracket louver soavailable.
It provides when used with
minimum glass louvers
obstruction from it
the
System 2: Bracket It provides
maximizes minimum
the natural obstruction
daylight and from the the
enhances
System 2: Bracket carrier [100] maximizes It provides
the natural minimum
daylight obstruction
and enhances fromthe
carrier carrier
[100] [100] louver so when
louver
views to so used
when with
the outside.used glass
with louvers
glass it
louvers it
views the louver
to thetheoutside. so when used with glass
maximizes
maximizes natural
the daylight
natural and enhances
daylight and the
enhances the
louvers it maximizes the natural daylight
views to the outside.
views
and to the outside.
enhances the views to the outside.

including
Suitable use glass,
forglass, with ametal,
varietyfabric and timber wood.
of louver
including
Suitable metal,
for usefor
with fabric and timbermaterials
wood.
Suitable usea with
variety of louver
a variety materials
of louver
materials
including glass, metal, fabric and timber wood. wood.
including glass, metal, fabric and timber
Like carrier
Like system
carrier 1, carrier system 3 is3 is
Like carrier system 1,system
carrier1,system
carrier 3system
is
intended
intendedfor for
wider spans
wider spansandandincorporates a
System 3: Torsion bar intended forsystem
Like carrier wider spans andsystem
1,aluminum incorporates istubea3 along
System 3: Torsion bar Like
discreetcarrier
central
incorporates acarrier
system 1, carrier
discreet torsion
central 3 aluminum
system is the
System 3: Torsion barcarrier
carrier[100]
[100] discreet
intended central
for aluminum
wider spans torsion
and tube along
incorporates aofthe a
carrier [100] bar intended
torsion
entire length for
tube wider
of along spans and
the entire
the louver. incorporates
length
It is ideal for
System 3: Torsion
System 3: Torsion bar entire length of the louver. torsion
It is ideal foralong the
discreet central
discreet
the aluminum
central
louver.
continuous It isaluminum
facades ideal for as
as well tube
torsion
continuous tube along the
for roofs.
carrier carrier
[100] [100] continuous facades as well as for roofs.
entire length
entire length of the louver. It isfor
facadesof the
as louver.
well as It
for is ideal
roofs. ideal for
continuous facadesfacades
continuous as wellas aswell
for roofs.
as for roofs.
Energies 2017, 10, 1672 14 of 32
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Energies 2017, 10,
Energies 1672
2017, 10, 1672 12 of 3112 of 31
Carrier Diagram Description Suitable for use with a variety of louver materials
Application
Suitable
including for
Suitableusefor
glass, with
useawith
metal, variety of louver
a variety
fabric and materials
of louver
timber wood.materials
Suitable
includingforglass,
use with
including a metal,
metal,
glass, variety of louver
fabric fabric
and and materials
timber wood.wood.
timber
Carrier system 4 provides a back hung end
Carrier
pivoted system
Carrier
solution 4 provides
system
with4hiddena back
provides ahung
back
control end
hung end
Carrier system 4 provides a back hung
pivoted solution
pivoted
mechanisms with
solution
integrated hidden
with control
hidden
within the control
main vertical
end pivoted solution with hidden control
System 4: Hung mechanisms integrated
mechanisms withinwithin
integrated the main vertical
thethe
main vertical
System 4: Hung
System 4: Hung mullion supports.
mechanisms integrated within main
design carrier [100] mullion supports.
mullion
System 4: Hung design carrier [100]
designdesign
carriercarrier
[100] [100] This allows forsupports.
vertical mullion supports.
seamless continuous louvers with
This allows
This
This
unobtrusive for
allowsseamless
allowsforfor
supports continuous
seamless
seamless
when louvers
continuous
continuous
viewed from with with
louvers
the
louvers
unobtrusive
unobtrusive
outside. with
supports unobtrusive
when when
supports viewedsupports
from the
viewed whenthe
from
outside. viewed from the outside.
outside.
Energies 2017, 10, 1672 12 of 31
Applied for metal louvers.
Applied
Applied for
formetal
for louvers.
metal
Applied louvers.
metal louvers.
Applied for metal louvers.
The patented louver clip is adjustable in

TheThe patented louver clip is adjustable in
patented louver clip is adjustable in
The patented
The
increments of louver
patented ofclip
louver
15 degrees.
increments isThe
adjustable
clip
15 degrees. in
is adjustable
plastic
Theclip
increments of 15 degrees. The plastic inclip
allows
plastic
System 5: Metal
System 5: Metal increments of
increments 15for
degrees.
ofthermal
15 of The
degrees. plastic
Theand clip
plastic allows
clip allows
System 5: Metal support
System clip
5: [100]
5: Metal
System Metal for thermal expansion
allows the blade
expansion ofensures
clip allows for thermal expansion of the the
support clip [100]
support clip [100] for thermal
forbladeexpansion
thermal of the blade andblades
ensures
that louver andexpansion
blades ensures
cannot of
that
rattle the blade
louver
against
blade and ensures that louver blades and ensures
the
support clip [100]
support clip [100]
that louver
that
cannot
rafters. blades
louver cannot
blades
rattle rattle
cannot
against theagainst
rattle the the
against
rafters.
cannot rattle against the rafters.
rafters.rafters.
Energies 2017, 10, 1672 15 of 32
2.2.2. Folding Shading

Energies 2017, 10, 1672Systems 13 of 31

2.2.2. Folding Shading Systems
An effective type of shading systems is the shape morphing solar shading also called the folding
shading system or the Origami shading device. This type of shading had been applied in several
engineeringAn effective type of shading systems is the shape morphing solar shading also called the folding
fields, in adjustable and reconfigurable structures. Folding geometries have been used
shading system or the Origami shading device. This type of shading had been applied in several
in biomedical devices [101], and in space and aircraft applications [102]. However, in architecture
engineering fields, in adjustable and reconfigurable structures. Folding geometries have been used
the use in
ofbiomedical
folding Origami hasand
devices [101], only beenand
in space recently
aircraft experimented,
applications [102].especially
However, inas a shading
architecture the device.
When installed, they Origami
use of folding usually has
have different
only typologies
been recently of movement
experimented, such
especially as aas, translation,
shading device. rotation
When and
installed,
scaling, where they usually
external forceshave different typologies
are required. of movement
Recent trends suchdevice
in shading as, translation,
design haverotation
beenandtrying to
scaling, where
replace traditional external forces
mechanical are required.
systems Recent trends
with integrated in shading deviceand
multifunctional design haveactuators
smart been tryingand are
to replace traditional mechanical systems with integrated multifunctional and smart actuators and
responsible for moving or controlling the mechanism [103].
are responsible for moving or controlling the mechanism [103].
Usually,Usually,
sensors are able to analyze the variation of an external stimulus and transfer the
sensors are able to analyze the variation of an external stimulus and transfer the
information to the actuator,
information to the which
actuator,provides
which the structure
provides the with a change
structure with ina one of itsin
change properties
one of its[104,105].
The application
propertiesof[104,105].
shape morphing solarofshading
The application in buildings
shape morphing depends
solar shading on the following
in buildings depends on criteria
the that
following criteria that are considered to identify and analyze in detail
are considered to identify and analyze in detail the most suitable smart materials [106]: the most suitable smart
materials [106]:
• Corrosion resistance.
• Corrosion resistance.
• Durability
• (life cycle
Durability of the
(life cycle of smart movement/shape
the smart memory
movement/shape memory effect)
effect)
• Stimulus
• responsiveness
Stimulus (solar
responsiveness radiation,
(solar radiation,outside
outside air temperature,
temperature, electrical
electrical stimulus)
stimulus)
• • Workability
Workability (process
(process and adaptability)
and adaptability)
• Achievable movements
• Achievable movements
• Impressing force
• Impressing force
(b) Materials
(b) Material
Recently, there are no solar shading devices that are entirely made of smart materials due to the
material properties and costs. Therefore, smart materials are still used either as sensors or as
Recently, there are no solar shading devices that are entirely made of smart materials due to the
actuators.
material properties and costs. Therefore, smart materials are still used either as sensors or as actuators.
The types of smart materials of folding shading systems (either sensors or actuators) are
Theillustrated
types of smart materials
in Figure 2 [106]. of folding shading systems (either sensors or actuators) are illustrated
in Figure 2 [106].
Shape Change
Materials Shape Memory
Stimulus- (SCMs) Alloys (SMAs)
Smart responsive
Materials Materials Shape Memory Shape Memory
(SRMs) Materials Polymers
(SMMs) (SMPs)
Shape Memory
Hybrids
(SMHs)
Figure 2. Smart materials types for folding shading systems.

Figure 2. Smart materials types for folding shading systems.
Stimulus-responsive materials
Stimulus-responsive (SRMs)
materials (SRMs) are
arethe
themost suitablesmart
most suitable smart materials
materials for shape
for shape morphing
morphing
solar skins. This is due to their ability to respond to external stimulus through a
solar skins. This is due to their ability to respond to external stimulus through a change of their change of their
physicalphysical or chemical
or chemical properties
properties [107].
[107]. This
This typeof
type ofsmart
smart materials
materials is grouped into into
is grouped two main
two types
mainastypes as
shown in Figure 2:
shown in Figure 2:
1. Shape change materials (SCMs) [106]: They are able to change their shape when right stimulus is
present commonly a potential difference.
2. Shape memory materials (SMMs) [106]: “They are included in all the materials that are able to
hold the modified shape until the appropriate stimulus is applied to activate the shape recovery
cycle” [107,108]. Usually, those materials are activated by a difference in temperature.
Energies 2017, 10, 1672 16 of 32
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2017,10,
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31
A study
1. compared, described and listedThey the properties of the three types of SMMs that are used
1. Shape
Shape change
change materials
materials (SCMs)
(SCMs) [106]:
[106]: They are are able
able to
to change
change their
their shape
shape when
when right
right stimulus
stimulus
either as sensors
is or
is presentactuators
present commonly for solar
commonly aa potential shading
potential difference.
difference. devices [106]. The comparison showed that the SMPs
2. Shape
is the most2. promising memory
Shape memory materials
system, (SMMs)
due(SMMs)
materials [106]:
to the [106]: “They
fact that
“They are
their included in all
global deformation
are included the materials
in all the materials that are
is sensibly able
that are able to
higher
to (800%)
hold the modified
hold the modified shape until the appropriate stimulus is applied to activate the shape recovery
than Shape Memory Alloys shape
(SMAs) until(up
the appropriate
to 10%) and stimulus
Shape is applied
Memory to activate
Hybrids the shape
(SMHs) recovery
(up to 6–8%).
cycle”
cycle” [107,108].
[107,108]. Usually,
Usually, those
those materials
materials areare activated
activated by by aa difference
difference in in temperature.
temperature.
However, in the time being, SMAs are the most durable shape memory materials since they are able
AA study
study compared,
compared, described
described and listed the
the properties of
of the
the three types of SMMs
SMMs that are used
to exceed 200,000 cycles, where SMPsand havelistedbeen properties
tested only threeto
up types
200ofcycles that
andare used have not
SMHs
either
either as
as sensors
sensors or
or actuators
actuators for
for solar
solar shading
shading devices
devices [106].
[106]. The
The comparison
comparison showedshowed that
that the
the SMPs
SMPs
undergone anymost
is the tests [106]. system, due to the fact that their global deformation is sensibly higher (800%)
promising
is the most promising system, due to the fact that their global deformation is sensibly higher (800%)
than
than Shape
Shape Memory
Memory AlloysAlloys (SMAs)
(SMAs) (up
(up to
to 10%)
10%) and
and Shape
Shape Memory
Memory Hybrids
Hybrids (SMHs)
(SMHs) (up(up to
to 6–8%).
6–8%).
(c) Building
However,Applications
However, in
in the
the time
time being,
being, SMAs
SMAs are
are the
the most
most durable
durable shape
shape memory
memory materials
materials since
since they
they are
are able
able
to
to exceed
exceed 200,000
200,000 cycles,
cycles, where
where SMPs
SMPs have
have been
been tested
tested only
only up
up to
to 200
200 cycles
cycles and
and SMHs
SMHs have
have not
not
There are different
undergone
undergone any
any tests types
tests [106].of shape morphing shading systems that can be applied in buildings.
[106].
They usually
(c) move
(c) BuildinginApplications
Building response to variable external conditions, and they have the ability of minimizing
Applications
energy requiredThereto perform adaptation. The movement of the folding shading systems has two main
There are
are different
different types
types of
of shape
shape morphing
morphing shading
shading systems
systems that
that can
can be
be applied
applied in
in buildings.
buildings.
typologiesThey
[106]:
They usually move in response to variable external conditions, and they have the ability of
usually move in response to variable external conditions, and they have the ability of
minimizing
minimizing energy
energy required
required to
to perform
perform adaptation.
adaptation. The
The movement
movement of
of the
the folding
folding shading
shading systems
systems
1. Translational
has
has two
two mainmovement
main typologieswhich
typologies [106]: performs a bi-dimensional change of shape. It is linear and allows
[106]:
adjustment
1. levels in the building skins by size-opening variationofand by overlapping layers.
1. Translational
Translational movement
movement which
which performs
performs aa bi-dimensional
bi-dimensional change
change of shape.
shape. ItIt is
is linear
linear and
and
2. Rotational movement
allows adjustment which
levels performs
in the a
buildingtri-dimensional
skins by change
size-opening of
variationshape;
and by and performs
overlapping
allows adjustment levels in the building skins by size-opening variation and by overlapping swivel
layers.
layers.
motion both in the same axis and/or around a different axis.
2.
2. Rotational
Rotational movement
movement which
which performs
performs aa tri-dimensional
tri-dimensional change
change of
of shape;
shape; and
and performs
performs swivel
swivel
motion
motion both
In both typologies in
bothanin the
the same
same axis
actuator isand/or
axis and/or around
required,around
andaa different
different
it can beaxis.
axis.
completely embedded into the device or
In both
strategically located typologies
to trigger
In both typologies an actuator
an a specific
actuator is required, and
action.and
is required, The it can be completely
different
it can embedded
typologies
be completely embedded of into
into the
foldingthe device or
shading
device or devices
strategically
strategically located
located to
to trigger
trigger aa specific
specific action.
action. The
The different
different typologies
typologies of
of folding
folding shading
shading devices
devices
applied in buildings are shown in Table 5.
applied
applied in
in buildings
buildings are
are shown
shown in
in Table
Table 5.
5.
Table 5. Different
Table
Table 5.
types
5. Different
Different types
of
types of
folding
offolding
shading
folding shading
systems.
shadingsystems.
systems.
Reference
Reference
ReferenceStudy
Study Shape
Shape
Shape Motion
Motion
Motion Smart
SmartActuator
Smart Actuator
Actuator
Study
Three-dimensional
Three-dimensional
Three-dimensional
movement
movement (swivel
movement(swivel
(swivel
Flectofin
Flectofin [109]
Flectofin [109]
[109] -- -
motion—Both
motion—Bothin
motion—Both inthe
in thesame
the same
axis).
same
axis).axis).
[106]
[106]
[106]
Three-dimensional
Three-dimensional
Three-dimensional
Solar
SolarKinetic
Kinetic movement
movement(swivel
movement (swivel
(swivel Shape
Shape Memory
Memory
Shape Memory
Solar Kinetic [110]
[110] motion—Both
[110] motion—Bothin
motion—Both inthe
in thesame
the same Alloys
Alloys (SMA)
(SMA)
Alloys (SMA)
axis).
axis).axis).
same
Energies 2017, 10, 1672 15 of 31
[106]
[106]
[106]
Three-dimensional
Three-dimensional
Ocean Thematic
Ocean Thematic Pavilion movement (swivel
movement (swivel - -
Pavilion
[111] [111] motion—around a a
motion—around
different axis).
different axis).
[106]
[106]
Three-dimensional
movement (swivel Shape Memory
Air Flow [112]
motion—around a Alloys (SMA)
different axis).
[106]
Shape Memory
Three-dimensional
Alloys/ Shape
Sun Shading movement (swivel
Memory
[113] motion—around a
Polymers
Energies 2017,
Energies 10, 10,
2017, 16721672 15 of 31
Energies 2017, 10,
Energies 1672
2017, 10, 1672 1515ofof3131
15 of 31
Energies 2017, 10, 1672 Three-dimensional

Three-dimensional 17 of 32
Three-dimensional
Three-dimensional
Ocean Thematic
Ocean Thematic movement
movement (swivel
(swivel
OceanOcean
Thematic
Thematic movement (swivel(swivel
movement -
Pavilion [111]
Pavilion
Pavilion [111] [111] motion—around
motion—around
motion—around a
a a - --
Pavilion [111] motion—around a
different axis).
different axis).
different axis).
different axis).
Table 5. Cont.
Reference Study Shape [106]

Motion Smart Actuator
[106]
[106] [106]
Three-dimensional
Three-dimensional
Three-dimensional
Three-dimensional
Three-dimensional
movement
movement
movementmovement (swivel
(swivel
(swivel
(swivel(swivel
Shape Shape
Memory
Shape
Shape Shape
Memory Memory
Memory
AirFlow
Air Flow
Air Flow
Air [112]
[112]
Flow
[112] [112] movement Memory
Air Flow [112] motion—around
motion—around
motion—around a aa Alloys (SMA)
Alloys
Alloys (SMA)
(SMA)
motion—around a
motion—around a AlloysAlloys
(SMA) (SMA)
different
differentaxis).
differentaxis).
axis).
different axis). axis).
different
[106]
[106][106]
[106] [106]
Shape Memory
Shape Memory
Three-dimensional Shape Shape
MemoryMemory
Three-dimensional
Three-dimensional
Three-dimensional
Three-dimensional Alloys/Shape
Shape Memory
SunSun
Shading movement (swivel Alloys/
Alloys/Alloys/ Shape
Shape Shape
Sun Shading Shading
Sun Shading movementmovement
movement (swivel
(swivel
(swivel(swivel
movement Memory Alloys/ Shape
Sun Shading
[113] [113] motion—around a a Memory Memory
Memory
[113]
[113] [113] motion—around
motion—around
motion—around a
motion—around a Memory Polymers
Polymers
different axis) PolymersPolymers
Polymers
different
different
different axis)
axis)
axis) axis)
different (SMA/SMP)
(SMA/SMP)
(SMA/SMP)
(SMA/SMP)
(SMA/SMP)
[106]
[106] [106]
[106]
[106]
Bi-Dimensional
Bi-DimensionalMovement
MovementShape Memory
Smart Screen Bi-Dimensional Movement
Bi-Dimensional
Bi-Dimensional Movement
Movement
Smart
Smart Smart
Screen Screen
Screen (Translational Movement Shape
Shape Shape
Memory Memory
Shape Memory
Memory
Smart[114][114]
Screen [114] (Translational
(Translational Movement
(Translational Movement by
Movement
(Translational Movement Alloys (SMA)
[114]
[114] by overlapping layers) Alloys
AlloysAlloys
(SMA) (SMA)
Alloys (SMA)
(SMA)
by overlapping
by overlapping
overlappinglayers)
by overlapping layers)
layers)
layers)
[106]
[106]
[106] [106]
[106]
Shape Variable
Shape Variable Bi-Dimensional
Bi-DimensionalMovement
MovementNot Available
Shape Shape
Variable
Variable Bi-Dimensional Movement
Bi-Dimensional
Bi-Dimensional Movement
Movement
Mashrabiya (Translational Movement NotAvailable
Not Available
Not Available
Shape Variable
Mashrabiya
Mashrabiya
Mashrabiya (Translational
(Translational MovementMovement (N/A)
(Translational Movement
[115] (Translational
by overlapping Movement
layers) by(N/A)
(N/A) Not Available (N/A)
(N/A)
Mashrabiya [115]
[115]
[115] [115] by overlapping
by overlapping layers)
layers)layers)
by overlapping
overlapping layers)
[106]
[106]
[106][106]
[106]
Reproduced
Reproducedwith permission
with from
permission Elsevier
from andand
Elsevier
Reproduced with permission from Elsevier and
Reproduced with permission from Elsevier and and
Reproduced with permission from Elsevier
Copyright Clearance
Copyright Center,
Clearance 2017.
Center, 2017.2017.
Copyright Clearance
Copyright
Copyright Center,Center,
Clearance
Clearance 2017.
Center,
2017.
2.3. Integration of Renewable Energy Systems
2.3.1. PV Integrated Shading Device

The integration of PV materials into shading systems was introduced in 1998 [116]. Integration of
renewable energy generation can be applied in a very effective way in the shading devices, combining
a dual benefit: shading and production of electricity. Integrated PV shadings could be used to provide
energy controlling shape morphing devices.
Several studies were done on integrating PV panels as solar shadings and providing maximum
PV performance. Researches were carried out different studies during 2002 and 2011 about integrating
PV in the building as shading devices, the results showed that the use of BIPV as exterior solar shading
devices produces on-site electricity and reduces cooling loads by 10% and 9.2% in building [117,118].
In another study, a prototype of a PV-integrated shading device on venetian blinds was built and
monitored, where each blind consisted of a glazed static concentrator and of crystalline silicon bifacial
solar cells. The result showed that the efficiency of PV cells was improved by 85% and represented
a very good result for facades’ applications [119].
Building integrated PV (BIPV) systems are used for generating electricity and as shading devices,
they can be integrated into the building envelope, such as the roof, cladding, window shading,
semi-transparent windows and façades. Additionally, they can reduce the use of building materials
and electricity costs, reduction in use of fossil fuels and emission of ozone depleting gases [120].
Energies 2017, 10, 1672 18 of 32
Visual and the thermal performances of transparent BIPV on windows have been compared and
revealed that in residential buildings in hot humid climate regions BIPV with slat angles of 60◦ and
68◦ provided good visual and thermal effect [121]. Mandalaki et al. also carried out several studies
during 2012 and 2014 in hot climatic conditions on the visual and thermal comfort of PV-integrated
with fixed shading devices. It was found out that shading devices with integrated south facing PV can
produce electricity to be used for lighting and that the theoretical efficiency of 12% is satisfactory for
simple geometries [41].
A prototype of a solar-powered automatic shading device was built and tested in Indonesian
climatic conditions. The results showed a 3 ◦ C decrease in the indoor air temperature due to the control
of incoming solar radiation [122]. Kim et al. performed a study on a PV-integrated adjustable shading
device combined with daylight responsive dimming system in Korea and results showed 32% increase
of power production and a 35% reduction of energy consumed by lighting systems [123].
(b) Building applications
The design characteristics of shading devices (SDs) with integrated photovoltaic panels (PVs)
for residential building facades were studied for cooling and heating weather conditions in Crete.
The results defined the best position PV-integrated shading devices according to the best lighting
levels for tasks [124]. Thirteen different forms of monocrystalline PV panels mounted on south-facing
shading devices of office buildings in Mediterranean region were evaluated [125]. The results showed
that the best form of shading device integrated with PV was the “Brise-soleil full façade” which had
the best optimization in the heating, cooling and lighting loads [125]. Integration of PV panels on
louvers is another alternative in which the blade is exposed to provide full ventilation and can be tilted
to maximize the efficiency [126]. The integration of PV panels on several fixed shading systems was
tested by Mandalaki et al. (2014) for cooling purposes in Crete and found that the Brise–Soleil systems
is the most efficient system where it ensures visual comfort and sufficient energy production [126].
2.3.2. Solar Collectors Integrated Shading Devices

Solar collectors are used in buildings to reduce energy consumption and carbon emissions [127]; they
are usually installed on building facades, roofs, balconies, awnings and outdoor spaces, which are
called building-integrated solar thermal (BIST) systems [128,129]. Integration of solar collectors with
exterior shading devices can reduce solar radiation and at the same time generate heat.
Solar collector devices have been investigated in some researches, and research methods typically
include heat output estimation, numerical model calculation [43,130] and simulation analysis [131].
A study integrated shading device with a solar thermal system for water heating and analyzed the
system in buildings in temperate and Mediterranean climatic conditions of Portugal and Spain [132].
The two cases were compared; a real case that has a completely sunlit louver and two shaded louvers,
and an ideal one with three completely sunlit louvers. For the real case, the shadings reduced
transmitted energy by 7% for the 15◦ inclination on horizontal plane, 12% for the 30◦ inclination and
17% for the 45◦ inclination. For the ideal case, the optimum angle was 25◦ [132]. The payback period
was 6.5 years and the CO2 savings was 8.6 tons [132].
(b) Building applications
A full-size prototype of solar collector was installed on a shading louver and showed that
when the solar radiation was enough, the systems did not require auxiliary heating equipment and
the performance was 20% more than the performance of conventional solar collectors with natural
circulation function [133].
The integration of solar collectors in buildings at hot and humid weather in Kuala Lumpur
has been investigated by Saadatian et al. and the results highlighted that there are several ways of
Energies 2017, 10, 1672 19 of 32
integration including mounting on a structure on the roof or window separated from the building
or superimposed, where the collectors are mounted on a structure of the building envelope and are
arranged in parallel [134].
Another study evaluated the heat pipe solar collector attached on a louver under a range of
climatic conditions in the UK [133]. The indoor experimental results showed the performance of the
new design to be very promising, even though the collector materials were not carefully selected.
Increased collector efficiency can be achieved by increasing the number of heat pipes in the louver
with only minimal increase in louver cost [131].
2.3.3. Algae Façade Systems

(a) Design principle
Algae façade systems grow micro-algae in order to generate heat and electricity and are used as
external cladding elements and dynamic shading devices [42]. Double skin façades were developed
for the purpose of protecting curtain walls from the sun. Several transparent façade technologies have
been introduced in buildings, such as insulated glass unit (IGU) and shading device (such as stretched
metal, frit, suspended film) [135]. The use of those technologies in buildings is to protect the building
from excessive heat gain and improve the performance of the building. However, those technologies
are not enough for achieving high performance building. In order to do that, energy generation must
be achieved from the integration of those technologies; such as Photovoltaic and solar thermal systems.
As an alternative for high performance facade, an algae facade system has been introduced.
Kim investigated the algae façade system, which consists mainly of an algae panel, aluminum
framing and algae growing apparatus in the University of North Carolina in the U.S. as illustrated
in (Figure 3) [42]. The size of the system is 1.5 m wide by 3.65 m tall or taller depending on building
conditions, consisting of both vision zone and algae zone [42]. The purpose of the clear vision zone
is for view, daylight and ventilation, while the algae zone is for growing algae. The algae growing
Energies 2017, 10, 1672
apparatus is comprised of intake systems for supplying CO2 , and growing algae (e.g., algae,18nutrients, of 31
medium etc.) and discharging systems for emitting O2 and collecting grown algae [42]. The mechanism
medium etc.) and discharging systems for emitting O2 and collecting grown algae [42]. The
of work in this system
mechanism of workisinachieved first
this system is by waterfirst
achieved being
by filled
water in the filled
being vertical glass
in the louvers
vertical glassthat contains
louvers
nutrients which convert
that contains nutrientsdaylight and CO
which convert 2 to algal
daylight and CO biomass through
2 to algal biomass the bio-chemical
through process of
the bio-chemical
photosynthesis; at the same time
process of photosynthesis; thesame
at the water is being
time heated
the water up. heated
is being Secondly,up. the biomass
Secondly, theand the heat
biomass and that
is generated
the heat bythatthe façade elements
is generated are transported
by the façade elements areby a closed loop
transported system
by a closed to the
loop plant
system room,
to the where
plant
room, where both forms of energy are exchanged by a separator and a heat exchanger
both forms of energy are exchanged by a separator and a heat exchanger respectively. The temperature respectively.
levelsThe temperature
of the levels ofcan
heat generated thebe
heat generated
adjusted by can
usingbe aadjusted
hot waterby using
pumpa forhotthewater pumpoffor
supply the
hot water
supply of hot water and for heating the building [136].
and for heating the building [136].
Figure 3. Algae façade system details [42]. Reproduced with the permission from author Kyoung-Hee Kim.
Figure 3. Algae façade system details [42]. Reproduced with the permission from author Kyoung-Hee
Kim.
(b) System Performance

Kim has performed a few studies about the performance of algae façade systems. In one of the
studies [42] the aim was to identify the feasibility of the algae façade system through schematic design
and prototyping. The mechanism of algae facades was explained. Tests were conducted in a sunny
Energies 2017, 10, 1672 20 of 32
(b) System Performance
Kim has performed a few studies about the performance of algae façade systems. In one of
the studies [42] the aim was to identify the feasibility of the algae façade system through schematic
design and prototyping. The mechanism of algae facades was explained. Tests were conducted
in a sunny winter noon in outdoor environment using a FLUKE (2006, SmartView (Version 3.2),
NC, USA) thermography system with its software package. The result showed that the algae façade
system has the future potential for sustainable façade alternatives and energy generation possibilities.
The computer simulation on structural behaviors provided alternative design solutions to meet stress
and stiffness criteria under various loadings, in addition to fabrication challenges associated with
watertight interfaces between the vision zone and the algae zone [42]. Another study by Kim about
bio-facades or algae façade systems showed a retrofitting case of a building [137]. The result showed
that the algae facades reduces the energy consumption and CO2 emissions, where the retrofitted
building energy consumption was reduced by 30% compared to an existing building due to the
thermal and daylighting performance improvements. Moreover, the retrofitted façade reduces the
life cycle cost by $110,000 and reduces the life cycle by 200 tons, and CO2 generation due to the
photosynthesis process, which was 150 tons over the 30-year life cycle [136].
Usually, about 40 ◦ C heat is obtained from the façade and is either used directly to heat water or
stored in the ground to be used in a geothermal system. The efficiency of the conversion of light to
biomass is 10% and to heat 38%. For comparison, photovoltaic systems have an efficiency of 12–15%
and solar thermal systems 60–65% [136]. Therefore, algae façade is a competitive opportunity relative
to these other technologies. Additionally, the algae façade helps improve the overall CO2 balance by
removing CO2 from flue gas at quantities equivalent to the build-up of biomass [136].
(c) Building applications
The first algae façade integrated in a building was in the BIQ which is a part of the International
Building Exhibition (IBA) 2013 in Hamburg, Germany [136]. The building used 129 "bioreactors” or
algae façade, when sunlight hits the facade, photosynthesis process causes the microorganisms to
multiply and causes the water to go about 40 ◦ C , the heat then stored to be used for other uses [136].
Currently, the building reduces the overall energy needs by 50%, and the designer of the system says
100% is achievable by combining it with solar panels to power the pumps and heat exchangers [136].
Another application of the algae façade system was in the GSA Federal Building in Los Angeles
that won first place scheme for the 2011 Ideas competition, where an “algae photo bioreactor tube”
was attached to the top surface of the opaque building envelopes [136]. Similarly, the same company
made a net energy zero Battery Park project in San Francisco that applied “algae photo bioreactor
panels” to grow algae and reduce CO2 [136].
3. Controls of Active Shading Systems

The control of the movement of dynamic shading can be either user manual control strategy or
automatic control strategy.
3.1. User Control Shading Devices

Shading devices in buildings are linked to occupants’ behavior. There are many studies that
focused on the relationship between user comfort and shading operation.
Most of the researches done on user’s response to these systems are related to the manual use
of blinds [138]. A survey explored the factors that affect the occupants’ comfort in Danish residential
buildings [139]. The results suggested that most of the occupants preferred manually-controlled,
especially for artificial light, windows opening and solar shading [139]. In another study, 800 building
occupants were interviewed, and 90% preferred the use of automatic blinds because they thought they
provided a better indoor quality [140]. The position of remotely controlled blinds in eight individual
Energies 2017, 10, 1672 21 of 32
offices for 30 weeks was evaluated and showed that remotely controlled blinds were used three times
more often than manually controlled ones [141].
Galasiu and Veitch pointed out that the results of the studies on manually operated blinds are
helpful in favoring automated ones in Ontario, Canada [142]. Reinhart and Voss studied the reasons
that trigger occupants’ reaction to shading devices in Germany and found out that they tend to close
their blinds to avoid direct sunlight above 50 W/m2 on the work plane surface [143].
Wienold analyzed different shadings control strategies in Germany in order to design a shading
system based on real user behaviors and the result showed that when a manual control is provided
especially in summer, the shading device is rarely activated [144].
It was claimed that occupants had a positive experience when automated dynamic shading was
applied [145]. It is concluded that automated control strategies of shading systems are preferred and
are more beneficial in buildings.
3.2. Automatic Control Strategies

The use of sensors and actuators for controlling the movement of dynamic shading devices is more
beneficial when it comes to adapting to various external environmental conditions. Control strategies
and advanced control shading systems have positive impact on both the occupants’ comfort and the
energy performance of the building [146].
The operation of the façade components could be by occupancy, environmental variable, time or
utility price signals. Two types of loop controls can be used in buildings; open and closed loop control
systems [147,148]. The open loop motorized shading systems working mechanism depends on the
pre-calculated angle of incidence of sun light [149–151], or the illuminance sensor measurements of
the façade [143]. The control of the shading is based on three main types of control algorithms that
depend on the performance criteria they address [30]:
1. Threshold controllers: where the shading device gets activated when an external solar illuminance
or irradiance limit is exceeded.
2. Sun blocking controllers: moves the shading system or adjust the blind slat angle depending on
the sun position.
3. Mode and scene controllers: use a variety of sensors and different control algorithms [30].
Three types of control of the external shading devices were analyzed [152]. The first type was
based on external vertical irradiation level only; the second type was based on the interior temperature
level only, while the third type was the most effective one which was a combination of both types.
The external shadings are closed when both conditions are met and opened when at least one of the
conditions is met. A scaled model was built to test two types of control strategies for external venetian
blinds [153]. One strategy provided maximum slat openness, while the other one provided maximum
work-plane illuminance. The results indicated that for the low ground reflectance the energy savings
was 38.1%, while for the high ground reflectance, the energy savings was 55.3%. Bauer et al. developed
a logic based control algorithm that minimized thermal and artificial lighting energy demand [154].
The result showed that the smart blind controller achieved saving of 11% for the artificial lighting and
between 20% and 50% savings for heating/ cooling. A significant application of sensors application
in buildings is the case of the “Arab World Institute” in Paris, which is the one of first buildings to
apply sensor based automated response shading systems based on the environmental conditions.
The lens opens or closes according to the light quality inside the building. The system consisted of
photosensitive mechanical automated devices, 30,000 light sensitive diaphragms on 1600 elements,
which function like, a lens of the camera and all the mechanical devices are connected to a central
computer [155]. Examples of innovative controls of shading devices that depends on different strategies
for their movement are discussed in Table 6 below.
Energies 2017, 10, 1672 22 of 32
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10, xx 21 of
21 of 31
31
Energies 2017, 10, x 21 of 31
Table 6. Innovative shading control systems.

Table 6.
Table 6. Innovative
Innovative shading
shading control
control systems.
systems.
Table 6. Innovative shading control systems.
Control
Control Type Type Description Description WorkingWorking
MechanismMechanism Diagram
Diagram
Control Type Description Working Mechanism Diagram
Control Type Description Working Mechanism Diagram
Consist of two fiber-reinforced polymer

absorber tubes. The tubes are filled with
Consist of
Consist of two
two fiber-reinforced
fiber-reinforced polymer
polymer absorber
absorber tubes.
tubes. The
The
A self
A self sun-tracking
sun-tracking device
A selfdevice designeddevice
sun-tracking
designed to
to designed
Consist ofto
twowith special thermo-hydraulic
fiber-reinforced polymer absorber fluid. When
tubes. The
A self the
sun-tracking device designed to tubes
tubes are
are filled
filled with special
special thermo-hydraulic
thermo-hydraulic fluid.
fluid. When
When the
the
Non electrical
Non electrical thermo-
thermo- control
control external
the external shading
controlshading louvers.
the external shading
louvers. louvers.
tubes are filled the
with sun moves,
special one tube
thermo-hydraulic isfluid.
more When the
Non electrical
Non electricalthermo-hydraulic
thermo- control the
the louvers
external shading louvers. sun moves, one tube is more irradiated to sun and
sun moves, one tube is more irradiated to sun and heats up heats up
hydraulic controlling system
hydraulic controlling system Controls Controls
Controls the louvers without
without the
the louversuse
the usewithout the
sun usethe
moves, ofone irradiated
tube is more to sunthe
and
irradiated to heats
sun and upcylinder
moreupthan
heats
controlling
hydraulic system [156].
controlling system Controls the louvers without the use more
more than
than the other
other tube.
tube. This causes
This causes the hydraulic
hydraulic cylinder to
to
[156].
[156]. of electrical
of electrical power
power or digital
or digital
electrical power electronic
or digital move
electronic electronic
moreand
than the otherthe other
tube. Thistube. This causes the hydraulic
[156]. of electrical power or digital electronic move and rotate
rotate the louvers
the louvers intocauses
into optimal
optimal
the hydraulic
shading
shading
cylinder
position
position
to
devices [156,157].
devices [156,157].
devices [156,157]. move and therotate cylinder
louversto move andshading
rotate the louvers
devices [156,157]. throughout
throughout daythe
the day [156,157].
[156,157].
into optimal position
throughout the day into optimal shading position
[156,157].
throughout the day [156,157].
[157]
[157]
[157] Reproduced
Reproduced
Reproduced withwith
with the the permission
the permission
permission from
from
[157] company,
from
COLT Reproduced with the
COLT company,
2017. permission from
2017.
COLT company, 2017.
COLT company, 2017.
When the sun is direct, the motor sends

The electric
The electric control
control operation
operation
The electric control operation
Whenadjustment
the sun
sun is datathe
is direct,
direct, tomotor
the the holder
motor of
sends data
datathetogear whichof
the holder
holder ofis
The electric
adjustment
adjustment ofcontrol
of motorsoperation
motors could be
could be manual When the sends to the
adjustment of
of motors
motors couldbemanual
could bemanual
manualthe When
the gear the
switches
gear
sunisisretracted
or
which
which is
direct,
retracted
the
retracted motor
and
and and
pulls
pulls
sends
pulls data to
smoothly
smoothly
smoothly thethe
the
holder
the
rod
rod theofof
ofrod
of the
Electrical controlling
Electrical controlling system
system switches or
switches or automatic.
automatic. Automatic
Automatic the gear which is retracted andlouvers
pulls smoothly
Electrical controllingsystem
system [157] orautomatic.
switches system
automatic. Automatic controlled
Automatic louvers
louvers system
downwards
downwards the
to louvers
to close
close the
the downwards
louvers and tothe
and block
block rod
close
the
the
of the
the
sun.
sun.
Electrical
[157]
[157] controlling controlled
controlled system consists
consists of various
of various louvers downwards toshading
close the louvers and block the sun.
[157] controlled consists
system of various
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Energies 2017, 10, 1672 23 of 32
4. Challenges, Limitations and Future Opportunities in Active Shading Systems

The application of dynamic smart shading has grown widely in order mitigate the building
conditions against excessive heat gain and glare. However, there are some challenges inherent to these
systems that should be considered in future research. Challenges, limitations and opportunities of
active shading systems are discussed in Table 7.
Table 7. Challenges and future developments of dynamic shading systems.
Dynamic Shading Type Challenges and Limitations Opportunities and Development
• High initial cost (between 100–1000 US $/m2 ) and is more

expensive than other smart glazing types [44]. • Improve the Electrochromic glazing life time
• High labor and maintenance cost compared to other expectancy and durability to be similar to
conventional glazing types [44]. those of standard coated windows [44].
• The optical properties that change the Near-infrared • Develop faster switching speeds (<5, 6 min) in
Electrochromic Glazing switching electrochromics (NIC) are still little known [68]. order to promote better savings in energy and
• The performance of the NIC glazing might be affected by occupants’ visual comfort [161].
the present climate changes [68]. • Develop higher visible transmittances in the
• Low durability (sensitive to UV) [159] bleached state (τV > 0.6) to allow more
• High increased surface temperature and slow coloration daylight [161].
process [160].
• Improve the properties of the SPD glazing

• Lower transparency in the SPDs’ bleached state, and increase its transparency.
SPDs compared with the EC glazing [48]. • Remove haze from the SPD glazing.
• Undesirable haze [48]. • Further research is required on the integration
of SPD glazing in buildings.
• Remove the haze from the LCD glazing.

• Improve the properties of the LC glazing to
• LCD glazing is hazy because it scatters rather than absorb have intermediate states between opaque and
light, so there is a fog factor even when the device is in transparent states.
transparent state [44,82]. • Investigate the application of the emerging
LCD
• LC glazing is either transparent or opaque with no (GDLC) which less haze and yellowing than
in-between states [44]. conventional LCDs in different climate
conditions [78].
• Carry out further researches on the
integration of LCD glazing in buildings.
• Further studies should be undertaken on the

use of shape memory actuators in the
building industry; life cycle, solar activation,
• Variable external conditions could limit the efficiency and and resistance to external weather
the movement of the folding shading systems [106]. conditions [106].
Folding shading systems • The behavior of the SMPs is limited to one-dimensional • Further research on the use of smart materials
deformation which limits their movement [162]. with dynamic shading devices [106].
• Further research on the control of the folding
shading systems in response to the
climate variations.
• Higher temperatures will decrease the power production • Further research required on cost assumption
of the PV panels. of PV shading systems, particularly for
• Dust accumulation and limited tolerance to overheating movable PV shading devices.
PV mounted shading will restrict the expected performance and lower • To investigate materials that have long-term
the efficiency. durability and can stand the various climate
• Gap in PV shading systems in Mediterranean countries conditions (Snow, heat, dust, wind and air
where the amount of solar radiation is high. tightness) [163].
• More research is required on working

mechanism alternates of the algae façade
systems in order to reduce their initial cost.
• More research to test its performance under
several climate conditions.
• High initial cost (approximately $2500 per square meter • As relatively new, the Verde system was
Algae Façade System for the bioreactor system alone) [164]. introduced in the market after the
• High maintenance cost. development of algae façade system. Its main
function is to collect light and transfer it
through fiber optic cables, then algae is grown
within the bioreactor to generate energy. More
research is necessary to establish its properties
and part of the market [165].
Energies 2017, 10, 1672 24 of 32
5. Conclusions
This paper reviewed the current status of active shading systems in buildings, exploring
their design principle, performance, working mechanism and building application. Six types
of active shading systems including the electrochromic glazing, the automated shading systems
consisting of the rotating and folding shading devices and the shading systems that integrated
renewable energy generation such as the PV, algae façade and solar thermal collectors were discussed.
The design principle, performance and application of each system were explored. Additionally,
the control strategies of the systems including user control automated control were reviewed. In this
literature review, 165 papers were examined to evaluate the different types of active shading systems.
The significant conclusions inferred from the reviewed studies states that:
1. The use of electrochromic windows is increasing; however, its high cost is still a challenge.
2. The electrochromic windows have always progressed in their performance and there is always
an emergence of new types such as the NIR and POMs which have better performance. However,
they are hindered by their high initial costs.
3. The use of folding shading systems is still limited because of the need of expensive smart actuators
and sensors.
4. Rotating shading system is the most applied and studied system among active shading systems.
Its low initial cost and available resources and materials including glass, metal, timber and fabric
make it attractive.
5. The use of automatic control strategies has been proven to be much more effective than the use of
manual user controlled systems due to the benefits they provide including the adaptation to the
external conditions.
6. The use of robotic controlling systems and the thermo-hydraulic controlling systems are emerging
automatic control systems that requires further investigation as there are limited number of
studies done on their performance, building application and use in varying climate conditions.
7. Additionally, more studies should be done on the integration of PV panels on this emerging type
of shading devices.
Furthermore researches must be done on to develop faster switching speeds of electrochromic

glazing to increase energy savings. Additionally the SPDs and LCDs suffer from haze in the
glazing, thus, further research must be carried out in order to decrease the haze and test their
integration in buildings. The movement of folding shading systems could be limited by the variable
external conditions, therefore further investigation under different climatic conditions is required.
Finally, the algae façade system is a promising immerging system that needs further exploration in
terms of performance and building application.
Acknowledgments: The authors gratefully acknowledge financial support from the United Arab Emirates
University through the Emirates Centre for Energy and Environment Research funded research project (31R054).
Author Contributions: Kheira Tabet Aoul conceived and guided the review; Joud Al Dakheel conducted the
literature data collection and analysis. Both authors wrote the paper.
Conflicts of Interest: The authors declare no conflict of interest.
Energies 2017, 10, 1672 25 of 32
Nomenclature
PV Photovoltaic
SPDs Suspended particle devices
EC Electrochromic devices
LCD Liquid crystal devices
LEDs Light emitting diodes
CEC Conventional electrochromic glazing
NEC Near-infrared Switching Electrochromic
DBEC Dual-band Electrochromic
PSBP Polymer-stabilized Blue Phase
PDLC Polymer-dispersed Liquid Crystal
LCoS Liquid crystal on silicon displays
OILC Optically isotropic LC
GDLC Gel dispersed liquid crystals
AC Alternating current
IR Infra-red
SHGC Solar heat gain coefficient
Tv Visible transmission
SC Shading coefficient
ITO Indium tin oxide
IEQ Indoor environmental quality
SRMs Stimulus-responsive materials
SCMs Shape change materials
SMMs Shape memory materials
BIPV Building integrated PV
BIST Building-integrated solar thermal
IGU Insulated glass unit
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Energies: Building Applications, Opportunities and Challenges of Active Shading Systems: A State-Of-The-Art Review

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energies

Academic Editor: Arman Hashemi

1.1. Passive versus Active Shading Systems in Buildings

Energies 2017, 10, 1672; doi:10.3390/en10101672 www.mdpi.com/journal/energies

1.2. Aim of the Review Paper and Objective

2. Active Shading Systems

2.1. Smart Glazing Systems

Table 1. Summary of smart glazing types.

• Liquid crystal molecules are aligned in

• Applied on large-size glazing [66].

• Requires power only during switching,

Table 2. Performance of smart glazing types according to climatic conditions.

Parameters Performance of EC Performance of SPDs Performance of LCDs

• Glass gel-dispersed liquid crystal (GDLC) which has

• It was claimed by Gosh et al. (2016) that high U-values

Parameters Performance of EC Performance of SPDs Performance of LCDs

Variable • Energy consumption

• The energy consumption of EC windows

2.2. Kinetic External Shading Systems

2.2.1. Rotating Shading Systems

(c) Carrier system of the shading device

Energies 2017, 10, 1672 9 of 31

Building application example

Building application example

Zurich Airport, Switzerland

Building application example

Benefits • Dynamic and variable according to the weather situation.

Intended for wider spans, carrier system 1

Carrier Diagram Table 4. Carrier systems of shading device.

Suitable for use with a variety of louver materials

Energies 2017, 10, 1672 Table 4. Cont. 12 of 31

The patented louver clip is adjustable in

2.2.2. Folding Shading

(a) Design Principle and Performance

Figure 2. Smart materials types for folding shading systems.

Energies 2017, 10, 1672 Three-dimensional

Reference Study Shape [106]

2.3. Integration of Renewable Energy Systems

2.3.1. PV Integrated Shading Device

(b) Building applications

2.3.2. Solar Collectors Integrated Shading Devices

(b) Building applications

2.3.3. Algae Façade Systems

(b) System Performance

(b) System Performance

(c) Building applications

3. Controls of Active Shading Systems

3.1. User Control Shading Devices

3.2. Automatic Control Strategies

Table 6. Innovative shading control systems.

Consist of two fiber-reinforced polymer

When the sun is direct, the motor sends

4. Challenges, Limitations and Future Opportunities in Active Shading Systems

Table 7. Challenges and future developments of dynamic shading systems.

Dynamic Shading Type Challenges and Limitations Opportunities and Development

• High initial cost (between 100–1000 US $/m2 ) and is more

• Improve the properties of the SPD glazing

• Remove the haze from the LCD glazing.

• Further studies should be undertaken on the

• More research is required on working

Furthermore researches must be done on to develop faster switching speeds of electrochromic

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