Uses Full-Spectrum Camera Technology for Evaluating Double-Glazing Thermal Performance
This non-invasive system measures the argon gas content and thermal properties of double-glazed windows. Double-glazed windows play a crucial role in regulating building temperatures, but over time, and with prolonged sunlight exposure, their energy-efficient properties degrade. As awareness of global energy consumption grows, so does the demand for energy-efficient solutions to help manage building temperatures. The global energy-efficient windows market was valued at USD 15.19 billion in 2023 and is projected to grow by 7.7% annually from 2024 to 20301. Conventional methods of assessing window glazing face significant barriers, underscoring the need for a cost-effective, accurate alternative.
Available methods for assessing window deterioration often require invasive techniques that can damage installed windows or necessitate their removal for lab testing. Traditional instruments are often expensive and complex, making this system a simpler and more accessible solution for glazing assessments. With buildings accounting for a substantial portion of global energy consumption, predominantly through heating and cooling requirements, enhancing fenestration energy efficiency is essential. In an era where global energy policies are increasingly directed towards sustainability and efficiency, understanding the dynamics of solar light interaction with fenestration systems is crucial.
Researchers at the University of Florida, WinBuild Inc., and SunPine Inc. have developed a system to determine the thermal properties of double-glazed windows. By combining a full-spectrum camera, light source, and filter system, the energy efficiency of double-glazed windows can be measured with precision and accuracy on-site.
Application
Full-spectrum camera system for non-method measuring argon gas content and thermal properties of double-glazed windows
Advantages
- Accurately and efficiently measures and records light's spectral properties on-site, circumventing the need to remove widows for lab testing
- Utilizes full-spectrum digital camera technology to capture photos, increasing accuracy and sensitivity
- Optimizes architectural design by providing information about the building's windows and facades imperative to understand cooling and heating efficiency
Technology
Window glaze assessments provide critical information about how the solar spectrum interacts with double-glazed glass. Measuring argon gas content and thermal properties involves using a light source that simulates sunlight, a filter system, and a full-spectrum camera. Light enters from the top, passes through the filter, and reaches the camera. Next, a glass sample is placed between the camera and the filter, and an additional photograph is taken. Argon gas content is quantified by analyzing a sectioned-off square of pixels in the full-spectrum photograph. The ratio of the glass intensity value to the total intensity value is then calculated. These measurements provide information about the argon gas content and thermal properties of double glazing, which provide valuable insights, enabling window examiners to make informed decisions about a building’s energy efficiency. By delivering key insights into light and glazing interactions, this tool offers valuable data for advancing energy-efficient architectural designs.
Brochure
