The pigment-shifting window that responds to light - and could help slash energy costs
University of Toronto researchers have developed bio-inspired windows that mimic squid skin to regulate heat and light. The technology uses fluid-filled channels to dynamically shade buildings, potentially reducing energy costs for both new and retrofitted structures.
Why it matters
Innovative building materials that improve energy efficiency are essential for reducing the carbon footprint of the construction and real estate sectors.
Inspired by squids, U of T researchers designed a window that lets winter light and heat in – but blocks out heat in the summer
An artist's interpretation of how the squid-inspired window would work if installed in a commercial building, with colours representing changes in heat and light. (Photo illustration: Javier Lovera/Be Giant)
Benjamin Hatton spends a lot of time contemplating the perfect window.
In the summer, it would keep out the sun’s heat while letting in light. In winter, it would let in both light and heat. It would scatter and evenly distribute light on overly bright days to keep a building naturally lit.
In short, the perfect window would act a little like a squid.
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