WHY IS CLEARSHADE™ IGU BETTER THAN ELECTROCHROMIC GLASS?
A ClearShade™ glazing solution offers several advantages over electrochromic glass.
ONE: PRIVACY AND VIEWS
ClearShade™ provides privacy from a close distance while also opening up views from the inside. Building occupants have the advantages of privacy and views at the same time.
TWO: CLEARSHADE™ AMPLIFIES NATURAL DAYLIGHT
Electrochromic glass technology reduces solar heat gain by blocking sunlight, darkening to almost fully opaque during peak sun hours. A ClearShade™ IGU maintains optimal daylight throughout the day, dramatically reducing artificial daylighting requirements during daytime. This saves energy by reducing electric lighting loads and, as multiple studies show, natural light improves occupant well-being and productivity.
ClearShade™ controls glare by diffusing the light entering the building: it naturally provides more light and better light.
THREE: SIMPLER DESIGN, INSTALLATION, AND OPERATIONS
Electrochromic films use technology similar to an LCD, which uses liquid crystals with electronic control to change how much light can get through. However, the need for an electrical system makes the electrochromic glass more difficult to install and manage.
ClearShade IGU™ eliminates the need for an electrical trade: it is much simpler/easier to install and requires no ongoing maintenance.
PANELITE CLEARSHADE™: PERFORMANCE, CEU COURSE, LEED CREDIT
- Panelite CEU HSW Course: Advanced Glazing Solutions for Optimum Daylighting, Energy Performance and User Safety + Wellness
- Performance Analysis: NYSERDA/LRC Field Study
- Optimized daylighting
- ClearShade™ named acceptable pathway to LEED V4 EQC daylight
PROJECT EXAMPLES:
Raleigh Union Station

ClearShade amplifies natural daylight
ClearShade™ redirects light rays to transmit up to 70% daylight and substantially diffuse glare.
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Parrish Art Museum

Roof glazing, skylights
The skylights provide ample daylighting and also dynamically changing perspective views of the building.
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Sibley East Elementary School

Infill with optimized natural daylighting
ClearShade™ honeycomb glazing provides evenly distributed diffuse light across space while still controlling glare.
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