DESTINI - Solar Thermal Venetian Blinds

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The Solar Thermal Venetian Blind (STVB) is a multifunctional technology for transparent façade areas. It combines the function of a solar control device with that of a solar thermal collector, resulting in synergies. In addition to providing solar heat (e.g. for domestic hot water or as source for a heat pump), the solar heat transmission through the facade can be regulated and reduced by removing excess heat. This reduces the cooling demand of the building and increases thermal comfort, especially in summer and for glass facades. The research project "DESTINI - Demonstration of the benefit of solar thermal venetian blinds in real operation" (1.5.2020 - 30.4.2024) aims at the first realization of a Solar Thermal Venetian Blind (STVB) in a real building within the building project SpringPark VALLEY near Frankfurt, Germany.

The STVB technology was developed within the preceding research project "ArKol" (2016-2020), starting from the first idea, and was realized as first facade element with integrated solar thermal venetian blind. The test sample was characterized at Fraunhofer ISE's facade test facility OFREE and afterwards exhibited at several trade fairs (glasstec 2018, BAU 2019) ausgestellt. A video showcases the functions and working principle of the STVB.

The follow-up project "DESTINI" now continues the development and realization of the STVB. In order to meet the requirements of clients and manufacturers, particularly with regard to aesthetics, functionality, warranty and security of supply, the STVB must be further developed within the first phase of DESTINI. At the same time the planning of the large-scale demonstration facade at SpringPark VALLEY is carried out.

The feasibility of the technology and the multifunctional performance will be studied and evaluated with an extensive monitoring campaign. The specific characteristics within the planning process of this multifunctional technology are scientifically assessed, to gain knowledge for the planning of multifunctional facade systems in general.

Project team: