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Stylized Text: Fenestration Research.

Picture of Fenestration Logo. FSEC has an active program of research in investigating the energy and illumination performance of windows and other fenestration systems. Current projects include:

Computerized ray tracing of complex fenestration systems. Simulate the optical performances of a variety of complex fenestration systems, including flat interior shades, exterior shade screens, between-the-panes window blinds, Venetian blinds, and several different light pipe daylighting systems.

Picture of Tube Trace.

Software development.  Develop computer tools for window system design and performance evaluation, such as an awning shading model and a solar position calculator.

Picture of Awning Dimensions.

Solar gain calculations.  Research and publish methods for accurate prediction of solar radiant heat gain by fenestration systems of all types and orientations.

Picture of Solar Entry.

Technical assistance.  Provide technical support for the Fenestration Technical Committee 4.5 of the American Society for Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE).

Review.  Review various research reports and other publications in this field, providing technical input where requested.

Field assessment of window energy performance. Assess the impacts of high-performance windows on residential energy performance. In particular, through the High Efficiency Windows Demonstration Project. An example of work in this area is provided in this on-line summary research paper: "Measured Impact of Advanced Windows on Cooling Energy Use".