Smart technology integration in windows and doors is helping improve energy efficiency and enhance building security. Here we explore how these innovations are transforming Toronto’s buildings.
What are smart windows?
Window technology is changing how builders and architects manage light and energy efficiency in building and restoration projects. Also known as Switchable Smart Glass Windows, Polymer Dispersed Liquid Crystal or PDLC films can respond to electrical charges to change a window’s transparency.
However, artificial intelligence (AI) is also being used to automatically adjust opacity/tints based on exterior light. It responds by increasing transparency when it becomes cloudy and tinting to reduce the impact of glare and heat from the sun.
Apps allow occupants and building managers to adjust the windows on demand or through programmable scheduling and settings.
Benefits of smart window applications
Smart windows help reduce energy use and improve occupant comfort, including:
- Privacy: Occupants can enjoy the views and natural light or maintain privacy using various settings such as clear, translucent, frosted, etc.
- Immersive display: Smart windows can be used with rear projection systems as an affordable advertising tool for retail and public spaces. Immersive display windows also create interactive surfaces from video conferencing to entertainment and advertising to gaming.
- Interior design: Immersive display also offers endless possibilities in interior design, instantly changing the mood of a space using different imagery.
- Energy efficiency: AI optimizes natural light and helps manage interior temperatures to improve energy efficiency and occupant comfort. Smart windows can reduce HVAC and lighting energy use by as much as 20%.
- Health and wellness: According to View Smart Windows, smart windows offered 51% reduced eyestrain, 63% fewer headaches and 56% less drowsiness in occupants.
- Window treatments: Building managers can reduce upfront costs using windows that don’t require costly window treatments such as blinds.
What are smart doors?
Smart doors focus on security, introducing advanced access management control for buildings. They effectively manage rights of passage based on the individual and specific doors throughout a facility whether it’s a commercial, industrial, or residential complex.
For example, using advanced technology, various residential smart door systems confirm a resident’s identity at critical touchpoints such as lobbies, garages/parking and amenities. However, they also have commercial applications and can be used anywhere to maintain security, focused on authorized personnel.
Like smart windows, smart doors offer remote access and controls via an app.
Benefits of smart door applications
Building managers and business owners are finding many benefits of smart door applications not always related to security, including:
- HR management system: Companies can more efficiently and accurately manage employee attendance and wage tracking through smart door systems.
- Remote operation: When issues occur, remote management allows for real time responses from changing authorization to management of auxiliary equipment such as elevators.
- Streamlining processes: Whether it’s automated clocking in and out for salaries or tracking the collection and delivery of packages at front desks and condos, smart door applications can streamline a wide range of time-consuming tracking and security processes.
- Managing flow: Door security system equipment can be customized based on the area to help manage flow in and out of the building.
Smart window and door innovations offer builders, building owners and managers effective energy and operational cost savings over the life of the building. In hand with improved occupant experience they continue to transform Toronto’s buildings.
At WellDone Inc., we are committed to improving the construction process, incorporating various innovations to improve efficiencies, reduce risk, and maintain cost efficiency. Reach out to our team today.