The ETH Zurich has created a solar simulator, marking a turning point in the evaluation of building materials, making it possible to simulate a wide range of climatic conditions to test the effectiveness of building “surfaces” in any environment.
This breakthrough, made by the Zero Carbon Building Systems Labmakes it possible to experiment with the thermal performance of innovative materials, from extreme heat to mild winter conditions, all from a single point of control.
Importantly, this technological development, led by Professor Arno Schlüter of the School of Architecture and Building Systems, facilitates experimentation with varied building systems, including 3D printed walls and new materials, exposing them to solar radiation that would be encountered anywhere in the world.
Analysis and testing of versatility with solar simulation
The solar simulator, the core element of the laboratory, is composed of hundreds of powerful light-emitting diodes mounted on a rotating arm, faithfully replicating the sun’s trajectory for any latitude. This technology is not new to Schlüter and his team, who previously developed the “adaptive solar façade,” an award-winning system already implemented in the NEST housing module.
This laboratory allows unprecedented flexibility, with the ability to interchange floors, walls and ceilings to test different prototypes. Innovative materials, such as semi-transparent molded polymer facades and 3D printed components with macrostructures for thermal management, are tested under various solar radiation conditions.
New era in building construction with solar simulator
The main purpose of the solar simulator and the Zero Carbon Building Systems Laboratory’s research is to improve processes in the creation of buildings that operate efficiently under all weather conditions. The artificial intelligence that operates both the simulator and the laboratory learns from user behavior to optimize energy performance, contributing significantly to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.
Professor Schlüter stresses the importance of understanding the interaction between materials, building technology and occupant behavior in moving towards the goal of zero-energy buildings. Multidisciplinary collaboration within the research team, which includes architects, engineers, computer scientists and chemists, is critical to this end.
On the other hand, the laboratory opens its doors to external researchers and industry associations, promoting broad collaboration in the development of sustainable building solutions. This integrative and open approach reinforces the Zero Carbon Building Systems Laboratory’s mission to lead the way towards a more sustainable and energy efficient building industry.
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Source: sustainabilityenvironment.com
Photo: Zero Carbon Building Systems Lab
Video: ETH Zurich
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