Thermostatic Bimetal Integrated Facade as a Micro-Climate Controller

In this research project, a thermostatic bimetal screen was configured within a double glazed system, acting as a passive shading device. The compound material, composed of two or more alloys with highly varied coefficients of thermal expansion, allows passive movement as one side expands more than the other. The primary goal of this project is to carry out preliminary performance analysis of a bimetal shading device and to demonstrate its sustainability potential for contemporary glass facades. Building energy simulation was utilized as a research methodology to quantify energy saving from bimetal and compare it with a typical code complying building. The energy simulation focused on cooling and heating loads for a typical summer design week and winter design week respectively. Additional lighting analysis was carried out to show daylighting potential from a bimetal shading device.