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Modular photovoltaic facade’s targeting new and retrofitting buildings developed by Swiss start-up Zurich Soft Robotics.
Zurich Soft Robotics, a startup based in Switzerland, has launched an innovative modular photovoltaic facade called Solskin. Developed by architects and robotics researchers at ETH Zurich, this system aims to significantly reduce building energy consumption and power the building with its adjustable modular photovoltaic façade.
Solskin is described as the first commercially available intelligent climate-adaptive building envelope. It’s delivered complete with adjustable photovoltaic modules mounted on a modular structure that tracks and moves with the sun. And they’ve designed it to not only generate electricity but also provide shading for the building’s interior. They’re pitching their modular photovoltaic facade for both new constructions and facade renovations.
ETH Zurich’s testing shows that Solskin can withstand extreme weather conditions. When installed in front of windows, the modular photovoltaic facade can reduce building energy consumption by up to 80%. Additionally, the solar-tracking modules produce up to 40% more electricity than comparable systems. In some cases, such as south-facing glazed office spaces in Zurich, Solskin has the potential to cover the entire energy needs of the building.
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Zurich Soft Robotics have also equipped their system with Solskin AI, which uses predictive self-learning algorithms. This allows the modular photovoltaic facade to control the position of the solar modules in real-time, optimising energy efficiency. It continuously adapts to user preferences, weather conditions, and energy consumption patterns, and continuous AI updates ensure that the system remains energy-efficient and sustainable over time.
