Author: Lesel Radage

The next era in window innovation — transitioning from low-E coatings to dynamic smart windows

Published on
September 25, 2023
Words by
Lesel Radage

A major shift is taking place towards windows that save energy

The energy crisis of the 1970s catalyzed the creation of one of the greatest energy saving innovations in modern history: low-emissivity (low-E) windows. Now, 40 years later, dynamic, energy-saving electrochromic windows are poised to disrupt thee windows industry — spearheaded by companies like Miru. 

The 1970s were a pivotal time in energy-saving innovation. After a series of global oil price shocks and supply disruptions, the U.S. government funded research to reduce the use of fossil fuels.

At this time, windows were a key area of focus as buildings are one of the largest energy consumers, and windows are a key source of energy inefficiency. Heat can easily pass through standard windows, leading to wasteful heat gain in warmer climates and heat loss in colder climates.

To address this, a strategic collaboration among the U.S. Department of Energy, industry associations, window manufacturers, and research institutions led to a significant breakthrough in window technology: low-E windows. 

Low-E windows contain thin, transparent coatings on the surface that reduce the amount of heat transferred through a window. These low-E coatings reflect infrared heat radiation to prevent excessive heat gain in hot weather, while retaining heat in the building during cold weather, reducing the heating and cooling costs of buildings by 20%. 

Today, more than 85% of windows contain low-E coatings, but as game-changing for energy saving as this innovation was, low-E windows are not enough. Low-E windows are static: they do not adjust for the seasons or the time of day. We still need window coverings to protect us from the sun’s glare, meaning our blinds and curtains are closed 60% of the time! 

We are now entering the next era in window innovation

Dynamic smart window technologies are now available to increase building energy efficiencies by yet another 20%. These electrochromic windows (eWindows) have been proven to keep rooms 10 degrees C cooler than conventional windows during our ever hotter summer months.

Miru is helping drive this next shift towards more energy-efficient windows. Our eWindows enable people to electronically change the tint of their windows to respond to the season, time of day or weather pattern — minimizing excessive heat during hot weather while containing heat within the building during colder weather. Miru eWindows enable us to stay connected to the outside world while still enjoying a pleasant view.

To learn more about Miru smart eWindows, contact us.

Natural light in your home improves your health

Published on
September 18, 2023
Words by
Lesel Radage

We spend the majority of our days indoors, surrounded by artificial lighting. Studies have shown that our connection to natural light plays a crucial role in our personal well-being. The benefits of natural light extend far beyond simple aesthetics — embracing natural light can positively impact our physical and mental health.

Exposure to natural light has been linked to improved mood and mental health. When exposed to sunlight, our bodies produce serotonin — a neurotransmitter known as the “feel-good hormone” that promotes feelings of happiness and well-being. We often feel more cheerful and energized on sunny days. Additionally, natural light can help regulate our internal body clocks, also known as the circadian rhythm, promoting better sleep patterns and reducing the risk of sleep disorders. Adequate exposure to natural light during the day can help synchronize our internal clocks, leading to more restful nights and improved overall sleep quality.

Furthermore, there is a strong connection between natural light and physical health. Vitamin D is essential for maintaining healthy bones and supporting our immune system. Our bodies naturally synthesize vitamin D when exposed to sunlight, making it an essential nutrient that plays a crucial role in our overall well-being. Insufficient levels of vitamin D have been linked to various health conditions, including weakened bones, muscle weakness, and even increased susceptibility to disease. By getting regular access to natural light, we can ensure a healthy dose of this vital vitamin.

Natural light also plays a significant role in boosting productivity and cognitive performance. Research has shown that individuals working in environments with ample natural light experience higher levels of focus, alertness, and overall work satisfaction. Exposure to natural light has even been linked to improved learning outcomes in educational settings. By incorporating natural light into our workspaces, whether through windows or skylights, we can create an environment that promotes productivity and enhances cognitive abilities.

To make the most of the benefits that natural light offers, businesses and organizations should prioritize incorporating natural light into their designs. This can be achieved through maximizing natural light sources, innovative lighting technologies, and electrochromic windows (“eWindows”).

Miru eWindows offer an incredible opportunity to harness these positive effects of natural light while simultaneously addressing environmental concerns. By intelligently controlling sunlight and solar heat, these advanced windows allow individuals to enjoy the benefits of natural light without compromising energy efficiency.

Miru eWindows automatically adjust tint or transparency to optimize natural light levels, providing a well-lit and comfortable indoor environment. These eWindows not only enhance the mood, productivity, and overall well-being of occupants, but also reduce reliance on artificial lighting. By minimizing the need for excessive lighting, smart windows contribute to significant energy savings that increase building energy efficiencies by 20%. Miru eWindows enable individuals to enjoy their pleasant view while actively participating in the global movement towards a more sustainable future.

Miru surpasses critical milestone in durability testing

Published on
August 31, 2023
Words by
Lesel Radage

Next Generation eWindows Prove Resilient to Thermal and Solar Stresses

VANCOUVER, BC, August 31, 2023 – Miru Smart Technologies, a developer of next generation electrochromic windows (eWindows) achieved a critical testing milestone that proves the technology’s resilience to thermal and solar stresses.

Miru eWindow samples have surpassed 150,000 cycles under ambient conditions and 50,000 cycles under aggressive sun and heat testing conditions. Miru’s eWindow samples showed no degradation throughout the rigorous testing cycle. Miru’s patented electrode formulation and manufacturing process showed resilience to thermal and solar stresses—validating Miru’s system design and setting the stage for Miru to move to the commercialization phase of its manufacturing process.

The 50,000 cycle test is an accelerated version of ASTM E2141 testing conditions, with 1 Sun irradiance at 85°C and an extreme accelerated cycle time of one minute. The ASTM E2141 test is the industry standard for materials, products, systems, and services for electrochromic windows. To reach 50,000 cycles is considered to meet 50 years of operation for electrochromic windows in buildings.

“Through this intense testing, Miru has validated our eWindow technology and confirmed our key materials, system and manufacturing design considerations” said Curtis Berlinguette, Founder and CEO, Miru Smart Technologies. “This significant achievement demonstrates the reliability and durability of Miru’s technology, and underscores our commitment to delivering innovative and high-performance window solutions.”

About Miru

Miru is developing next generation eWindow solutions for the residential, commercial and automotive markets. Miru is disrupting how eWindows are produced and distributed, with a patented process that lowers costs, improves performance and significantly reduces carbon emissions—enhancing the well-being of people and our planet. Miru imagines a world where windows expand your view and keep you connected to your community and the world around you. Miru’s growth has been significantly aided by the support of the National Research Council, the BC Innovative Clean Energy (BC ICE) Fund, and the Canadian Sustainable Development Technology Fund (SDTC). Learn more at mirucorp.com.

Miru Media Contact:

Irene Tod
i.tod@mirucorp.com
604-356-8164

Take the longer view with Miru smart sunroofs

Published on
August 20, 2023
Words by
Lesel Radage

The number one factor consumers cite when deciding which electric vehicle (EV) to purchase is driving range. But while car manufacturers focus on improving battery designs, tintable windows also extend the driving range of an electric vehicle. By controlling the amount of light passing through the vehicle window, drivers can realize a 10% increase in EV driving range.

Smart sunroofs change the level of tint in response to electricity. The driver can therefore dynamically tint the window with the press of a button. These windows offer greater comfort in changing weather conditions, while reducing the energy vehicles consume to increase the driving range for EVs.

The first generation of smart sunroofs are finally hitting the market after years of development. Porsche Taycan and Renault Solarbay are both examples currently in the market.

The Porsche Taycan comes with optional panoramic glass roof with variable light control. Image from: www.porsche.com

While these first gen smart windows diffract light, Miru is pioneering the use of electrochromic technologies that better control the sun’s heat. Miru is bringing to market electrochromic windows (“eWindows”), which have been proven on flat glass in large commercial buildings—making Miru the first to make curved eWindows for automobiles.

Miru eWindows can span large panoramic sunroofs without bisecting busbars, and use low voltage power to drive the switching. These features are important to both consumers and manufacturers, as automobiles are designed with increasingly more glass.

By using Miru eWindows to increase the driving range of electric vehicles, drivers can reduce CO emissions, enhancing the wellbeing of our people and our planet.

To learn more about Miru eWindows for automobiles, email contact@mirucorp.com.

Expand your view: Electrochromic windows and dynamic glass trends in 2023

Published on
August 14, 2023
Words by
Lesel Radage

Electrochromic windows are expanding our view. This past year has seen electrochromic windows (“eWindows”) gain traction as energy codes, increased regulations and incentives drive more builders to adopt these energy efficient windows. And as electric vehicles (“EVs”) become more prevalent to help address climate change, so too is using dynamic glass for EVs and other automobiles.

We’ve compiled some of the more noteworthy eWindows and dynamic glass updates, trends and news articles that we’ve seen in 2023.

In the media

Forbes, CBS News and more covered eWindows and highlighted the important role the technology plays in reducing building energy use and carbon emissions. Smart glass and energy-efficient windows also trended at the largest trade shows in glass and consumer electronics throughout the year.

New buildings

Architects and developers are increasingly driven to minimize the energy and carbon impact of their buildings. In 2023, airports, universities, offices, commercial spaces, and hotels globally incorporated eWindows into their architectural innovations and created dynamic façades that are environmentally conscious. These buildings married functionality and aesthetics by using eWindows like Miru’s to optimize daylight and improve building energy efficiency by 20%.

The CURV 60-storey residential tower in Vancouver will be the world’s tallest Passive House. Image from: https://thecurv.ca/

Airports

Universities, think tanks and hospitals

Offices, commercial space  and hotels

New cars

Dynamic sunroofs also made significant strides in the automotive industry. In 2023, we saw an increasing number of vehicles incorporating dynamic glass into sunroof panels, windows, and mirrors. Carmakers are taking advantage of the technology’s ability to control tint, reduce glare and optimize comfort.

McLaren’s new supercar, the 750S, has optional electrochromic glass added to the car’s retractable hardtop. Image from: www.zigwheels.my

Want to learn more about Miru eWindows? Reach out to us at . contact@mirucorp.com.

Reduce global carbon emissions with smart windows

Published on
July 14, 2023
Words by
Lesel Radage

Cars, trucks and airplanes are widely regarded as the worst contributors to our climate change crisis for their greenhouse gas (GhG) emissions. But buildings are actually the largest emitters of CO2 — responsible for 40% of the world’s carbon emissions.

The most significant energy draws in buildings are for heating, cooling, and lighting, which generate 10 gigatons of CO2 emissions annually. If we make buildings more eco-friendly, we can stabilize global temperatures. We need to move quickly: The global population is projected to double by the year 2050, and to meet those needs, the pace of construction is not slowing down.

Windows are a major source of building inefficiencies.

Improvements in the efficiency of a window will have a huge impact on CO2 emissions. But the last significant innovation in windows (low-emissivity or low-e windows) was 40 years ago. That’s before the first Apple Macintosh came to market. While computer technology has clearly advanced (we can now operate most of our lives with a smartphone the size of our hand), windows technology innovation has been stuck in the ‘80s.

Enter smart windows or electrochromic windows.

Smart windows significantly increase overall building energy efficiency. Compared to conventional windows with low-emissivity coatings, smart windows can improve building energy efficiency by 20% even in mild climates. In hotter regions, the energy savings can reach 40%.

Smart windows can also reduce peak heating and cooling loads significantly — by 25% or more. This means we can downsize mechanical equipment, saving even more energy and costs. When implemented worldwide, smart windows can make a material impact in reducing energy use and the carbon footprint of buildings.

To put it in perspective, if just 25% of new buildings worldwide adopted the use of electrochromic glass like in Miru smart windows, the carbon savings would exceed half a gigaton annually by 2050.

The graph below projects the carbon savings possible with varying smart window adoption rates in new building construction

It is important that the world recognize how important windows are in reducing global carbon emissions.

Miru windows efficiently control sunlight and solar heat, resulting in reduced energy consumption, lower carbon emissions, and significant cost savings for building owners. By embracing these advanced window technologies, we can make substantial strides toward a more sustainable and energy-efficient built environment.

Miru smart windows offer a game-changing solution for reducing global carbon emissions.

ODL and Miru partnership

Miru and ODL sign exclusive collaboration agreement

Published on
May 3, 2023
Words by
Lesel Radage

Partnership to develop energy-efficient doorglass with Miru smart windows

VANCOUVER, BC, May 3, 2023 – Miru Smart Technologies, a developer of next-generation smart windows, and ODL Inc., a leading building products supplier of doorglass, entry treatments, and exterior doors, have signed a two-year collaboration agreement to develop electrochromic doorglass and patio doors exclusively made with Miru’s innovative and patented smart window technology.

ODL and Miru are working together to introduce tintable, electrochromic glass as an energy-efficient, comfort-enhancing, and affordable addition to smart doors. This modern aesthetic will provide a solution that customers have been unable to find in the existing window coverings market.

“This collaboration with Miru supports ODL’s commitment to long-term growth and innovation and its brand promise of Building Value into Building Products,” said Ivan Samalot, Executive VP of Product Development, ODL. ”For nearly 80 years, ODL has created products that make life better for our customers. We’re excited to continue on that tradition by developing tintable doorglass with Miru’s smart window technology that is high- performing, energy-efficient and beautiful.”

“Homeowners want more access to light, views, and nature and are increasingly incorporating doorglass and glass patio doors in their home to maintain their connections to the outside,” said Curtis Berlinguette, CEO, Miru Smart Technologies. “Miru and ODL’s smart doorglass will be a perfect fit for efficient and net-zero homes, providing a beautiful and functional solution for modern homeowners.”

Estimated consumer value of the entry door and sliding glass patio doors market for North America in 2022 was $10 billion and it’s expected to grow to $12 billion over the next five years as builders and homeowners look for ways to connect their indoor and outdoor living spaces. ODL and Miru’s collaboration seeks to pioneer the next exclusive light and privacy control solution on the market.

About Miru Smart Technologies

Miru Smart Technologies is developing next-generation electrochromic window solutions for the residential, commercial and automotive markets. Miru is disrupting how smart windows are produced and distributed, with a patented process that lowers costs, improves performance and significantly reduces carbon emissions—enhancing the well-being of people and our planet. Miru imagines a world where windows expand your view and keep you connected to your community and the world around you. Miru’s growth has been significantly aided by the support of the National Research Council, the BC Innovative Clean Energy (BC ICE) Fund, and the Canadian Sustainable Development Technology Fund (SDTC). Collaborative efforts such as these are important steps towards the sustainable and eco-friendly construction practices envisioned by these programs. These initiatives demonstrate the potential of innovative technologies to drive positive change in the clean energy sector. Learn more at mirucorp.com

About ODL Inc.
ODL, Inc. was founded in 1945 and corporate headquarters are located in Zeeland, Michigan. Nearly 80 years later, the company offers products designed to build value into the home under the following brands: ODL, Blink Blinds + Glass, Western Reflections, Kenyon’s Glass, Verre Select, Robover, and Tru Tech Doors. ODL product offerings include decorative and clear doorglass; enclosed blinds; custom decorative glass for windows, doors, transom glass; doorglass frames; fiberglass and steel entry doors; and door accessories. Products are manufactured or distributed in Zeeland, MI; Dallas, TX; Valdosta, GA; Reno, NV; Hagerstown, MD; Gallatin, TN; Grove City, OH; Matamoros, Mexico; Toronto, Montreal, Vaughan, and Calgary, Canada; Suzhou, China; and Liverpool, United Kingdom. ODL products are sold through building material dealers and home center retailers.

Miru Media Contact:

Irene Tod
i.tod@mirucorp.com
604-356-8164

ODL Media Contact:

Rachel DenHartigh
rachel.denhartigh@odl.com
616-953-5022

Miru Smart Technologies welcomes Alain Jardinet VP, Sales

Published on
January 31, 2023
Words by
Lesel Radage

Miru Smart Technologies (Miru), a developer of next-generation electrochromic windows (eWindows), today announced that Alain Jardinet has joined the company as VP of Sales. Alain brings more than three decades of experience in the glass and windows industry to this key role on the Miru leadership team, where he will focus on business development and building Miru’s global sales team.

“Alain has been an executive at one of the world’s leading eWindows providers and brings decades of experience growing revenue in the glass and windows space,” says Curtis Berlinguette, Founder and CEO, Miru Smart Technologies. “His global expertise in the glass industry, leading high growth sales and innovation teams, will be extremely valuable in helping Miru capture market share in the fast growing eWindows industry.”

Alain has dedicated his 30-year career to promoting adoption of innovative glass and window technology, including more than 20 years as an executive at AGC Glass Europe and later AGC Glass globally. He was the founding CEO of Halio International, where he oversaw sales, distribution and service of the smart-tinting glazing system. At Halio International, Alain built the team that successfully introduced the eWindows experience to the non-residential and residential building segments in Europe and Asia.

“Curtis and the Miru team are challenging the traditional eWindows industry with their innovative technology, patented process and unique go to market strategies,” said Alain Jardinet. “With their value proposition, Miru is well-positioned to disrupt the $150B+ window market and I’m thrilled to be a part of the Miru leadership team, as we ramp up sales and business development globally.”

Jardinet joins Miru at a pivotal time in the eWindows industry as builders begin to capitalize on the incentives and grants recently offered by the Inflation Reduction Act.