4.6.4. Control Laser-cut panels are usually fixed as a second internal glazing in windows or skylights. However, when laser-cut panels are installed as an internal glazing in awning windows, then, as the awning windows are tilted open to the outside, high-elevation light is deflected more deeply into the room. In principle, the tilt of the panel can be continuously adjusted to obtain optimum penetration of sunlight. (Figure 4-6.8 illustrates the deflection of sunlight over the ceiling of a room by laser-cut panels in awning windows.)
4.6.5. Maintenance If the panels are fixed inside of existing glazing or skylights, no maintenance is required. When panels are laminated between thin sheets of glass and installed as single glazing, the maintenance is the same as for glass.
4.6.6. Cost and Energy Savings The cost of the panels is approximately 130 euros per square metre for small areas of panel (< 20 m2). For larger areas, the cost approaches 100 euros per square metre. Energy savings depend on the application. For example, laser-cut panels fixed in the upper half of a window to deflect light deeply into a room may increase the natural light by 10% to 30% depending on sky conditions. If the panels can be tilted out from the window, both light collection and penetration into the building can be dramatically increased.
4.6.7. Some Examples of Use
Figure 4-6.8: Laser-cut panels in awning windows deflecting sunlight over the ceiling of a classroom (Kenmore South State School, Brisbane, Australia)
4.6.8. Simulations and Measured Results Test room measurements were conducted for laser-cut panels at two test sites. Norway conducted tests on a vertical panel. Germany conducted tests on an exterior, 20째 tilted panel.
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