Twisty Photovoltaic Shading SystemSolar Power Generator and Shading System
Taking the humble roller blind and adding a simple twist to its concept, the Twisty Photovoltaic Shading System, designed by Kevin Chu, offers a new spin on how fabric can be used to alter energy conservation, geometrical and aesthetical manipulation, as well as illumination and ventilation in architectural and interior projects. Inspired by twisty breadsticks, flamenco dancer movements, and typhoons that flip blinds under wind gusts, Chu questioned why roller blinds have always been straight and not twisted. By introducing this simple twist, the blind itself can alter light and viewpoint customization, while also providing a new sense of physicality to the interior. The Twisty system utilizes the latest sustainable energy invention called nano-photovoltaic fabric, where microscopic solar cells are embedded into strands of woven fabric. This allows the roller blind to absorb solar power, store it, and supply energy for alternative functionality. All fabrics used in the Twisty system are recycled from discarded clothes and scrap off-cuts, and the coloring is sourced from natural vegetation dyes. With its adaptive character, customizable geometry, and coloration, Twisty can be implemented in various architectural projects, from singular installations to urban-scale applications, acting as both solar shading and power generation systems. Its vibrant and playful design adds a touch of fun and color to modern cities, breaking away from the monotonous singularity of glass cladding and grey concrete. Twisty is not only environmentally friendly but also a versatile and aesthetically pleasing addition to any space or area.
Made of solar power-absorbing fabric, each panel of the Twisty Photovoltaic Shading System can be rotated into a helix to control viewpoint and ventilation. The helix structure becomes stronger with more rotation, making it windproof and capable of generating solar energy even on cloudy days. The modular composition of the system allows for easy adaptation to a wide variety of projects. The Twisty system can be operated individually via a wireless connection, either through WiFi Direct or Bluetooth 5.0, using an app on a computer or cell phone. The app displays the power generation level from the sun during the day and can also control interior LED lighting systems and other electrical appliances connected to Twisty. The Twisty concept won the Sunbrella Future of Shade competition in 2013 and has since received the Hong Kong Productivity Council Innovation Grant of 2014, as well as an international innovation patent in 2016. The design and development of Twisty have been ongoing, with collaborations with leading solar fabric experts and engineers to further enhance the system's capabilities.
Technical specifications of the Twisty Photovoltaic Shading System include a minimum panel height of 2 meters for proper helix rotation functionality. During the Miami Art Basel installation, each panel measured H 2.6m x W 85cm, and the Art Basel Pavilion covered an area of approximately 45 sqm, with a cost of around 70,000 euros. The design team, led by Kevin Chu, has conducted extensive research on twisty breadsticks, helix mechanical engineering, flexible solar panels and solar fabric, rotational motors, wireless connection standards, app development, and fabric tensile analysis software. Overcoming challenges such as finding the right tensile and elastic qualities for the fabric and developing a complex wireless control system, the Twisty Photovoltaic Shading System represents a significant advancement in solar power generation and shading technology.
The Twisty Photovoltaic Shading System has been recognized for its innovative design and sustainability. It was awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in the Sustainable Products, Projects, and Green Design category in 2017. This prestigious award acknowledges designs that demonstrate creativity, resourcefulness, and technical excellence, contributing to quality of life improvements and making the world a better place. With its unique combination of solar power generation, shading capabilities, and vibrant design, the Twisty Photovoltaic Shading System is set to become the standard for shading systems worldwide.
Project Details and Credits
Project Designers: Kevin Chu
Image Credits: Kevin Chu
Project Team Members: Kevin Chu
Project Name: TWISTY
Project Client: Kevin Chu