Bio-Inspired Adaptive Shading: Energy-Autonomous & Sustainable
2025-01-21
Researchers at the Universities of Stuttgart and Freiburg have developed a novel energy-autonomous building facade shading system, "Solar Gate," inspired by pine cones. Using bio-based cellulose materials and 4D printing, the system passively adjusts shading based on humidity and temperature changes, requiring no electricity. It closes in summer to minimize solar radiation and opens in winter to maximize sunlight for natural heating, offering a sustainable and efficient solution for climate control in buildings.