TranSense Screens: Responsive Sun-Shading

What it does

TranSense Screens integrate shape memory alloy actuators and UV-responsive pigments, adapting to temperature changes to enhance indoor comfort and mitigate UV exposure, bridging the gap between indoor living and outdoor climate dynamics.

Your inspiration

Growing up in the hot, semi-arid region of Udaipur, Rajasthan, I experienced firsthand the challenges of managing indoor temperatures and the emotional disconnect from the outdoors during extreme weather. This inspired me to find a solution that would bring a sense of wonder and connection back into our homes. My fascination with smart materials, particularly Shape Memory Alloys (SMAs) and photochromic pigments, fueled my desire to create an energy-efficient, low-complexity shading system. These materials allow the screens to sense and react to environmental changes autonomously, providing both functional and emotional benefits.

How it works

It regulates indoor temperatures and communicates UV radiation levels using smart materials. Nitinol springs, embedded within window frames, contract when heated and return to their original shape when cooled. On hot days, as the outdoor temperature reaches 30°C, the springs heat up and contract, pulling on a system of cords and pulleys that close the shading panels, blocking excess sunlight and preventing overheating. When the temperature drops, the springs cool and relax, overpowered by a pullback steel tension spring, reopening the panels The panels are coated with photochromic pigments that change color in response to UV radiation. When exposed to high UV levels, the pigments shift from white to orange, visually indicating the intensity of UV exposure and alerting users to potential risks. This design not only controls indoor climate but also communicates real-time environmental changes, fostering a dynamic connection with the outdoors.

Design process

Concept Development: Vision for adaptive sun-shading screens using SMAs and UV-reactive pigments. Focus on Nitinol SMAs for temperature sensitivity and photochromic pigments for UV indication. Research Phase: Detailed study of Nitinol SMAs and UV-reactive pigment properties. Analysis of weather data and user requirements in hot regions. Initial Prototyping: Built prototypes with Nitinol springs activating at 30°C. Implemented basic pulley systems to test SMA movement. Applied photochromic pigments for UV indication on shading panels. Testing and Feedback: Conducted trials to evaluate SMA movement and responsiveness. Gathered feedback on mechanical performance and aesthetics. Refinement: Enhanced pulley mechanisms for smoother operation. Adjusted spring tension and material properties for reliability. Integrated shading system into standard window frames. Advanced Prototyping: Developed refined prototypes with optimized Nitinol springs and advanced pulley systems. Improved UV-reactive pigments for better performance. Final Testing: Proof of concept tested in Udaipur's real-world conditions. Collected user feedback on functionality, visual appeal, and overall performance. Implementation and Future Steps:

How it is different

TranSense Screens stand out through their innovative integration of Shape Memory Alloys (SMAs) and UV-reactive pigments, transforming conventional sun-shading systems into dynamic, responsive structures. Unlike other automatic shading, it adapts in real-time to environmental changes without electrical or manual input. Nitinol SMAs enable precise control over shading intensity, responding autonomously to fluctuating temperatures by adjusting panel angles. Simultaneously, photochromic pigments embedded in the screens change color to signal UV exposure levels, enhancing user awareness and safety. This dual technology combines functionality, energy efficiency, and user engagement seamlessly. The screens take a step towards Smart Living, while stepping away from complex, high-tech sensor-motor systems. In contrast to simply taking orders, they engage in a dialogue, mapping new relationships and adding fascination to our day-to-day.

Future plans

The next crucial steps involve refining performance and scaling for broader application. With rigorous testing and comprehensive data compilation, I plan to conduct extensive field tests in various climates, collecting data on energy efficiency, thermal comfort, and user satisfaction. This data will inform refinements in material selection, SMA trigger temperatures, and overall system performance. My goal is to establish evidence supporting the screens' effectiveness and reliability, paving the way for commercial deployment and widespread adoption in diverse environmental contexts.

Awards