Windows are one of the most problematic aspects of making construction greener without losing usability. Views and access to natural light are one of the requirements for LEED certification, but with views and natural light comes energy loss and heat gain which strains the mechanical systems and potentially makes the occupants uncomfortable. While various solutions exist, none are effective enough to make glass a net green element in a building. User dependent systems are defective due to human nature, and other altered glass products have a series of issues such as electrical dependency or single season effectiveness. Why is it a window can’t adjust to the changing seasons the way a transitions sunglass/glasses lens works?

RavenWindow. Designed by RavenBrick.

The people at RavenBrick have taken just that concept and created a new product called Raven Window smart windows. RavenWindow automatically adapts to the outside temperature to reduce the need for both heating and air conditioning. While it may seem that available sunlight should guide the change in the window, what’s brilliant about RavenWindow is its temperature dependence, allowing it to work year round. On a hot day, RavenWindow darkens to reflect the heat of the sun and keep interior temperature cool. On a cold day, RavenWindow is virtually clear, allowing the heat of the sun to naturally warm the space. Instant adaptation keeps the users comfortable and eliminates the need for human intervention.

RavenWindow is unlike other products in existence because it does not link to a power source, which not only allows for easy installation, but also allows it to be installed at any point in the life of the building. RavenBrick claims that RavenWindow provides double the savings of other energy efficient windows, can save 30% or more on energy bills, as well as outlasts other systems which adds to overall savings. When in its most reflective state, the window system has a Solar Heat Gain Coefficient of 0.03, and in its most transparent state reaches up to 0.35 or higher. RavenWindow is offered in several tint colors for added customization for the designer.

via buildinggreen.com