Architectural Products Update

 
Interactive Floor and Wall Lighting System

The SmartFader interactive lighting system is now available in North America. Suitable for floor and wall applications, the tiles contain arrays of LEDs. Each light is on until something touches that part of the panel, causing it to go dark. The light then slowly returns to full illumination in about 8 seconds. The units measure 39 inches (one meter) square, recess about 2 inches (5 centimeters) into the floor or wall, and can be used as single elements or in combination. Available for interiors and exteriors, in four colors: standard cool white, warm white, red, and blue. From Technical Architectural Lighting (TAL).

talnorthamerica.com

 
Perforated Metal Panels

C.R. Laurence Co., Inc. (CRL) produces perforated metal panel systems (pictured) and architectural wire cloth systems. In exterior applications, such as sun-control devices and hand-railing infills, the perforated panels and wire cloth limit solar gain while maintaining views. As interior ceiling panels, they allow air flow, helping keep fixtures cool. The perforated panels are available in steel, galvanized steel, stainless steel, and aluminum, with finishes such as mill, powder paint, and KYNAR®. Stock sheets are available in a variety of perforation patterns and thicknesses, and custom pattern fabrication is also offered. The wire cloth comes in several stainless steel meshes.

crlaurence.com

 
Solar-Reflective, Impact-Resistant Shingle

CertainTeed Corporation offers the Landmark Solaris IR™ shingle, a solar-reflective shingle with Class IV impact resistance. This "cool roof" shingle features special granules that reflect solar energy, and a tough fiberglass-reinforced base that helps it achieve the highest UL impact-resistance rating. Also protects against discoloration caused by algae growth. Backed by a ten-year warranty against winds up to 90 miles per hour (145 kilometers per hour), or up to 130 miles per hour (210 kilometers) when installed with designated accessory parts. Energy Star-qualified; may also contribute to LEED credits. Color choices: Crystal Gray, Sunset Shake, Aged Cedar, and Dusky Clay.

certainteed.com

 
Photovoltaic Glass

Pythagoras Solar offers a new PV glass unit, one of its building-integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) products. The transparent glass unit combines high-density solar power generation with the modularity and insulating benefits of a standard insulating glass unit, while also preventing most direct solar radiation from entering the building. The product has a power density of 13 Watts per square foot (140 Watts per square meter), a U-value of 0.3, a solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC) of 0.17, and a visible light transmission of 75 percent to facilitate daylighting. Easily incorporated into conventional construction. Designed for vertical curtain wall and skylight applications.

pythagoras-solar.com

 
Unlatched Fire Doors

Wrightstyle introduces its system of unlatched fire doors. In normal use, the doors allow free passage in both directions, either swinging back automatically into the closed position or fitted with an automated swing-door operator. In a fire, the doors will automatically close securely, providing a barrier against fire and toxic gases. Available in single- or double-leaf format and in a range of surface finishes, including steel, stainless steel, and fully glazed. Hinges and closer mechanisms can be concealed in the framing system. Recently used in the Dubai Metro and in other projects in the United States and elsewhere.

wrightstyle.co.uk