Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: Adaptive building envelope systems are increasingly investigated for their potential to enhance environmental performance and architectural flexibility. In this context, the present work investigates bending-active glass fiber-reinforced polymer (GFRP) plates integrated into unitized curtain wall systems as an adaptive sun-shading solution. The GFRP bending-active plates are supported at their corners by scissor-like steel members connected to rotating actuators that control plate deformation. By varying the opening angles of the supports, multiple configurations are achieved with limited actuation complexity. A detailed numerical investigation of the system’s structural behavior is conducted through nonlinear Finite-Element Analysis (FEA). Building upon prior studies in which a 4 mm thick GFRP plate with 36% perforation was identified as structurally optimal, the present analysis extends to non-symmetric deformation modes. Six actuation scenarios are examined by independently varying support opening angles. The resulting curvatures are analyzed using a nonlinear FEA framework that incorporates large displacements and geometrical nonlinearity, considering plate self-weight and an external wind load of 1 kN/m 2 . Additionally, the study examines the system’s structural response under incrementally increasing external wind loading to assess deformation capacity and stress thresholds. The results show that symmetric actuation maintains structural integrity up to 3 kN/m 2 , while non-symmetric configurations provide enhanced morphological adaptability but reach stress limits at lower wind loads. Overall, the study demonstrates the potential of lightweight, bending-active systems to deliver adaptive, low-energy sun-shading solutions suitable for performance-based façade design.
Source: Frontiers in Built Environment
Institutions: University of Cyprus, University of Stuttgart
Language: English
Subfield: Civil and Structural Engineering
Field: Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $2,353
OpenAlex ID: W7134052037