5 - Advanced fenestration—technologies, performance and building integration

Advanced fenestration systems (AFS) can respond to baseline functionalities and requirements in the remit of the transparent part of the building envelope (eg, reducing heat transfer, solar control and providing view out) and can combine these to a higher level of functionality aimed at providing an occupant with excellent indoor conditions while improving building performance toward building sustainability objectives. This full set of possible wished functionalities include providing view out/privacy; managing solar radiation; managing glare/daylight; managing and/or controlling heat transfer; increasing thermal storage; managing airflow; and facilitating energy generation. The present chapter provides an overview of different market available advanced fenestration components and systems highlighting (1) the main features while providing some examples of commercial products and solutions still in the R&D stage; (2) the increased building performance and functionalities achieved; and (3) the challenges for broader market adoption. Finally, an overview is provided regarding the challenges and requirements for performance evaluation of AFS, with the aim to support decision-making for design and operation of AFS.