Researchers at Stuttgart and Freiburg have developed the Solar Gate, a 4D printed, autonomous shade system that opens and closes in response to humidity and temperature changes. This innovative design, inspired by cellulose fibers in plants, utilizes biobased materials that exhibit hygromorphic properties—expanding in humidity and contracting when dry. Tests conducted over a year demonstrated its functionality in real weather conditions at the University of Freiburg. This technology represents a significant advancement in sustainable architecture, blending natural principles with modern fabrication techniques to create energy-efficient building facades.
The 4D printed Solar Gate utilizes biobased cellulose fibers to autonomously close and open in response to humidity and temperature changes, requiring no electricity.
By mimicking the hygromorphic property of pine cones, this innovative system expands and curls in high humidity while contracting and flattening in low humidity.
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