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| Future SPD-Smart products from SCSC Research Frontiers Incorporated announced that it has granted a non-exclusive worldwide license to SPD Control Systems Corporation to manufacture and sell electronic and total building control systems for SPD-Smart products. In windows, skylights, sunroofs or other products using VaryFast SPD-Smart technology, the user can manually or automatically "tune" the amount of light, glare and heat entering a building or vehicle. SCSC will offer standardized, scalable control systems for architectural smart windows and other products using Research Frontiers' patented SPD light-control film technology. SCSC plans to offer products ranging from high-volume control systems for individual residential windows to fully networked systems capable of controlling large curtainwall structures in skyscrapers. Designed with an electronics architecture that is fully scalable, systems can expand as the number of SPD-Smart windows increases. SCSC has several pending patent applications on their systems, including the use of wireless technologies to simplify the initial installation as well as the potential expansion or upgrades to the system. The ability to electronically control light, glare and heat coming through SPD-Smart windows provides attractive quality-of-life benefits. Greater use of glass can be used in the design of homes and buildings, views no longer have to be blocked with shades or blinds when glare and light are uncomfortable, and the positive physical and psychological effects of increased use of natural daylight are many. SCSC control systems will allow the user to manually control light passing through glass - instantly and precisely. SPD-Smart products also contribute to energy conservation by utilizing or significantly reducing the effects of solar heat gain through glass. This gives specifiers and property owners the opportunity to reduce the required configuration and square footage of a building's heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system. To achieve the full potential of the practical benefits of SPD technology, intelligent control systems are required. Cost-effective, standardized, scalable and customized products by SCSC can be programmed to automatically adjust the tint of windows in portions of a home or building as the sun crosses the sky. The "skin" of the building can change continuously to optimize energy efficiency and maintain a comfortable environment. These systems will further impact energy costs by reducing the need for high levels of artificial lighting required when "fixed" window tinting is used. write your comments about the article :: © 2005 Construction News :: home page |