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Author: | Leonard |
Subject: | Looking for windows that switch from opaque to clear. |
Posted At: | 2004-09-13 05:50:58 |
Hello; I am remodeling a bathroom & would like to get information on manfactures & your thoughts on windows that an electric voltage is applied to allowing the window to change from clear to opaque.No I'm not dreaming this.My wife & I saw the windows on a home remodel show on television a year or so ago & unfortunatly did'nt note the nescessary information to locate them now.I'm hoping you will be able to help us.
Thank You; Leonard
Author: | RC |
In Reply To: | Looking for windows that switch from opaque to clear. (posted by Leonard) |
Subject: | RE: Looking for windows that switch from opaque to clear. |
Posted At: | 2004-09-13 13:18:26 |
Unfortunately this technology is in its infancy. Yes you can find them if you search hard enough, but they are not ready for residential use. When I did a google search I found a french firm that made some for commercial applications, they are very very very expensive and not for movable windows (e.g. ones you can open). I imagine for a small window you would be looking at many thousands of dollars and many hassles, since you would be a pioneer. They will come eventually, but not anytime soon.
Author: | Oberon |
In Reply To: | RE: Looking for windows that switch from opaque to clear. (posted by RC) |
Subject: | RE: Looking for windows that switch from opaque to clear. |
Posted At: | 2004-09-13 15:09:41 |
Leonard, I totally agree with RC.
But, things are looking up!
I have enclosed a bit of data from a recent Department of Energy report:
"Chromogenic or dynamic windows: Since solar gain and occupant needs vary widely throughout the day, a window system that can dynamically change its properties is one of the highest priorities expressed in the Window Industry Technology Roadmap. Electrochromic windows — using a coating with controllable properties — are reaching an advanced stage of materials development with direct support from DOE and assistance from the national laboratories. The DOE program assists industry in developing current electrochromic technologies through materials research and analysis, performance modeling, research on building systems integration, and extensive field testing and demonstrations. In addition, DOE is in the early stages of research on next-generation electrochromic coatings. Conventional electrochromic coatings are composed of thick layers, making them costly to manufacture. They are also absorptive, which increases thermal stress. Next-generation research will investigate the use of a newly discovered material, reflective transition metal hydrides, to create simple gasochromic windows that may overcome these limitations, enabling higher performance and lower cost. Other chromogenic technologies, such as suspended particle devices, also will be monitored as potentially promising alternatives to electrochromics."
Author: | Kidding |
In Reply To: | RE: Looking for windows that switch from opaque to clear. (posted by Oberon) |
Subject: | RE: Looking for windows that switch from opaque to clear. |
Posted At: | 2004-09-13 18:11:36 |
Cost to install Chromogenic window over tub --- $2,000.00
Cost for a shade or blind --- $25.00
Photograph of wife's hair standing stright up after spending $2,000.00 to get electric voltage operated new window into the bathtub/shower area when she bumps into it --- PRICELESS !
Author: | Oberon |
In Reply To: | RE: Looking for windows that switch from opaque to clear. (posted by Kidding) |
Subject: | RE: Looking for windows that switch from opaque to clear. |
Posted At: | 2004-09-14 12:31:46 |
A "hair-raising-experience" no doubt!
Sorry, I couldn't resist - I really did try!