Outline of the Design and Functioning of Green Shading Systems, Compared to Industrial Products

Abstract

On the building of the BME-Odooproject, which participated in the Solar Decathlon competition in 2012, we were able to perform on-site impact measurements with deciduous (Parthenocissus quinquefolia, Parthenocissus tricuspidata) and evergreen (Hedera helix) plant-shading systems. The analysis of the bio-shaders’ mechanism of action and data obtained during the research, proved that bio-shaders comply with the most important criteria of shading systems (to allow through the least energy ratio, reflect the largest share possible, minimise absorption and transmit the absorbed amount outward). This is due to the plant’s structure, physiological processes, evaporation, and air movement. The bio-shadings meet and in certain cases, approach or even exceed these requirements; their efficiency is comparable to industrial blinds. As well as being a new form of architectural element, they also have many other ecological benefits; bio-shaders can play an important role in the building’s energy balance, particularly in reducing the summer heat load.