"Intelligent Film" produces electricity and maintains home warmth in a sustainable manner.
Solar-Powered Smart Film Revolutionizes Building Energy Management
In a groundbreaking move, students from King Mongkut's University of Technology Thonburi (KMUTT) have outdone themselves with an incredible invention. This innovative smart film can automatically modify its transparency based on indoor brightness while capturing solar energy to power itself - a game-changer for modern building energy usage.
Meet the geniuses behind the "Power Maker" team: three engineering students named Jirarath Ngaroongruang, Patcharaporn Chaikaew, and Sasithorn Pikulkaew. Jirarath hails from the Department of Environmental Engineering, while Patcharaporn and Sasithorn come from the Department of Mechanical Engineering and Materials. They were guided by their advisors: Assoc Prof Surawut Chuangchot (Mechanical Engineering) and Assoc Prof Patinya Khemachivakul (Environmental Engineering) [1][2].
The Genius Behind the Smart Film
"Observe and innovate," says Jirarath, voicing the team's motivation. They noticed energy inefficiencies in buildings with vast glass surfaces, like offices and universities. Too often, these spaces receive an overabundance of sunlight, leading occupants to close curtains, switch on lights during the day, or boost air conditioning to combat excess heat. The team's insight revealed a significant energy wastage opportunity [2].
Leaning on the expertise of the Research Centre of Advanced Materials for Energy and Environmental Technology (MEET), the Power Maker trio merged two cutting-edge technologies: electrochromic film, controlling the film's transparency via electrical stimulation which rearranges crystal structures, and integrated solar cells embedded within the film, converting sunlight straight into electricity to fuel the system [2].
The smart film's unique feature allows it to control the light entering a room, minimizing infrared heat and reducing air conditioning needs while simultaneously blocking harmful UV rays that damage skin and indoor furnishings while allowing the right amounts of natural light, decreasing reliance on artificial lighting [2].
To prove its efficiency, the team first developed a small-scale model, measuring 1 by 2 meters, mimicking a typical home installation. Calculations revealed that this prototype met solar cell standards and could reduce building electricity consumption by up to 22% per year. This implies the film can sufficiently power basic appliances and ease the load on the national power grid while significantly cutting energy use and electricity costs for households [2].
This Game-Changer Installs with Ease
Another advantage of this prototype is its simple installation without altering the building's structure. Users merely provide the dimensions of their glass surfaces and the team custom-designs and manufactures the film accordingly, making it perfect for those seeking a quick, efficient transition to clean energy [2].
What sets our innovation apart is its ability to 'think and adapt,' said Patcharaporn. The team aims to develop the prototype into a fully integrated smart device with embedded sensors to determine light intensity and temperature. It will also include processing systems to identify room activities and automatically adjust film transparency based on the time of day or type of activity—like reading, meetings, or relaxation during daylight hours. This real-time self-regulation ensures the film responds intelligently to users' needs [2].
Lastly, the Power Maker team prioritizes environmental friendliness. They select recyclable materials and design modular solar cell panels that can be replaced or disassembled at their end of life, ensuring minimal pollution and reducing electronic waste. Their efforts demonstrate alignment with international goals for achieving net-zero emissions [2].
Even though the smart film remains a prototype, it captures the potential of young people with innovative ideas shaping our future.
- TAGS
- smart home
- sustainable
- KMUTT
- Green technology
- Innovative solution
- Research
- INNOVATION
- Jirarath Ngaroongruang - Link
- Sasithorn Pikulkaew - Link
- The smart film, a result of the team's work at King Mongkut's University of Technology Thonburi (KMUTT), effectively merges the fields of technology (electrochromic film and integrated solar cells) with environmental concerns (energy efficiency and emissions reduction).
- The smart film's adaptation and self-regulation capabilities can have profound implications in various business sectors, such as building management, interior design, and even the broader international market for energy-efficient technology.
- As the smart film evolves, it may impact the economy by reducing energy consumption, leading to substantial cost savings for households and organizations seeking sustainable solutions aligned with their lifestyle preferences.
- By incorporating advanced technology, address energy inefficiencies, and prioritizing environmental friendliness, the Power Maker team's smart film exemplifies how science and technology can contribute to the international efforts in achieving sustainability, creating a better lifestyle for people, and fostering economic growth while minimizing environmental impact.
