Innovative envelope (BIPV) - ISAAC
The Innovative envelope team, part of the Building systems sector, focuses on innovative envelope systems for energy-efficient buildings and active solar envelopes (Building Integrated Photovoltaics - BIPV). The team is also responsible for the Swiss competence center for BIPV (more information can be found on the website ). The competence center offers services related to the development of new multifunctional PV modules, which, in addition to generating electricity, also serve architectural functions (solar control, thermal protection, waterproofing) and active envelope functions.
- Architectural and technological construction solutions for multifunctional and efficient building envelopes, designed based on an integrated approach aimed at minimizing building energy needs through the optimal management of energy flows, ventilation, and natural light.
- Integration of photovoltaic modules/systems (Building Integrated Photovoltaics) into buildings, serving as building components (e.g., as roof tiles, facade cladding, windows or semi-transparent elements, solar shading, or parapets) as an integral part of the architectural language, performance, and technology of the building.
- Methodologies and techniques that promote the use of solar energy in the built environment and integration into the design and construction process, both for new constructions and the renovation of existing buildings.
- Techniques that promote the use of solar energy.
- Multifunctional facade systems that integrate various technologies.
- Development of components, libraries, and platforms for integration and interoperability within the BIM-based digital construction process.
In 2019, some members of the team created and founded the start-up iWin 鈥� innovative windows, with the goal of developing and commercializing an innovative window that integrates a photovoltaic Venetian blind. The collaboration with the start-up continues through various federal and international funding (Innosuisse and Horizon Europe projects). The team is also involved in Undergraduate and Graduate Studies, and Continuing Education.