The Circadian Clouds

The proposal is an activated shading system for outdoor spaces. The system performs as an artificial cloud, Circadian Cloud, and follow the sun path adjusting its form pragmatically to block direct solar radiation from a public space. The shading system is compromised of multiple small floating cells that work together in synchronization that move with the sun to keep a specific area always in shade.

It is proposed that the cell would have a helium light container embedded, which saves the energy of lifting. The cell would utilize photovoltaic panels to power the side fans, which consume minimum energy, only for adjusting the position with the other cells using light sensors and a similar technology used in synchronizing multiple drones together. The script was developed in Grasshopper and require the inputs of the size dimensions, and the system would adjust accordingly; making it suitable for any site. The main advantage of this shading system is that it allows for shading the entire site, without closing the open space (or having a roof). It can be effective for shading beach walking paths and running tracks. It would also serve as a landmark for the city.

At night time, the fans would be stopped and the floating element can become a floating chandelier using Photochromic sheets which uses the light that was collected during day time. This proposal was one of the selected winning proposal in the international competition: Cool Abu Dhabi Challenge.