Study reveals potential energy savings with the use of automated blinds

A study by researchers at the Illinois Institute of Technology found that automated insulating blinds have shown significant potential for reducing energy consumption. The study, which took place at Willis Tower, shows that these automated shades can effectively reduce energy consumption by approximately 25% and offer a payback period of 3 to 5 years.

These findings provide a promising path for improving sustainability and energy efficiency in architectural design; in regions with a climate similar to that of Chicago, temperature control accounts for a significant portion (~30-40% of a building’s total energy use).

The research team, led by Assistant Professor of Architecture Mohammad Heidarinejad, focused specifically on the often overlooked role of solar shading in energy-saving solutions. The results underline the significant impact of insulating shading when integrated with an automated control system, leading to a remarkable reduction in energy consumption during both the heating and cooling seasons.

Heidarinejad emphasizes that tackling energy waste in existing buildings is a major challenge, as the implementation of energy-saving technologies is more flexible in new-build projects.

“While designing a new building offers more freedom in applying energy-saving technologies, existing buildings face more limited options,” explains Heidarinejad.

The study, conducted over a ten-month period in collaboration with Parata Solutions LLC and Amatis Controls at Willis Tower, evaluated three different control strategies for Parata’s patented insulating solar control: manual operation, a predefined schedule, and a sensor-based system that takes into account outdoor conditions and room occupancy.

Up to 25% less energy consumption

The findings were very convincing and showed a remarkable 25% reduction in energy consumption during both the heating and cooling seasons when the motorized blinds were used. In addition, the survey revealed an overwhelmingly positive response from office users, with 80% expressing a preference for the new shades over traditional blinds.

Christopher Nurre, CEO of Parata Solutions LLCpraised the partnership with Illinois Tech, saying: “Working with Mohammad Heidarinejad and his team at the Illinois Institute of Technology was a breakthrough for our company. Their rigorous field measurements helped validate the effectiveness of our shading system in significantly reducing energy consumption, while providing residents and building owners with a preferred solution over existing technology.”

In addition to contributing to sustainable architectural solutions, the study provided a valuable real-world learning experience for the Illinois Tech students participating in the project. Heidarinejad emphasized the importance of students gaining hands-on exposure through collaborative projects.

“Our students were involved in various aspects such as instrumentation, data collection and modeling, and their contributions had a direct impact on the actual research,” said Heidarinejad. “It was essential for them to learn how to collaborate on real-world projects.”

Further research is planned to investigate the effectiveness of these innovative blinds under different conditions, such as in buildings using natural gas, in different climate zones or with windows facing different directions. Brent Stephens, a co-principal investigator on the project and the Arthur W. Hill Endowed Chair in Sustainability, highlighted how this innovative research, with immediate practical applications, aligns perfectly with Illinois Tech’s mission.

“In addition to the exciting findings of energy savings and the favorable payback period, this project is an example of the type of industry-relevant research we are pursuing: combining field measurements and computer simulations to evaluate a unique energy-saving strategy in one of the most renowned buildings worldwide, ” Stephens said.

Submitted At home. Read more about Environmentally friendly.