Shape – Variable Mashrabiya (SVM)
This is a system which is formed by three identical opaque backscattering shields, filled with a pattern inspired by the Mashrabiya. It is considered an adaptive daylighting and shading system, due to the ability of its shields to move relative to each other, in order to switch between a closed situation in the case of direct sunlight (Figure 4.28a) and an open situation when skylight prevails (Figure 4.28b) (Giovannini et al., 2015).
Figure 4.28: Images of the SVM (Giovannini et al., 2015)
The SVM advantages:
It effectively blocks direct light, along with converting a part of it into diffuse reflected light, so as to enhance the comfortable daylight in the room space.
It diminishes the overheating problem, therefore it performs better than other technologies used for the control of sunlight, especially in Middle East region.
It provides good visual comfort, in terms of glare adjustment; moreover it offers some aesthetic value (Giovannini et al., 2015).
