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Why an automated window?

So why did we chose to make this automated window?

Well the first reason was simple self-interest. Living somewhere without air conditioning means that opening the windows at night, and making sure they're closed during the day, is the only way to have the inside be cooler than the outside. Unfortunately, not only do most student houses not have air conditioning, students tend to not have the time to open or close the windows as promptly as might be nice. While making this as our design project doesn't mean that we'll end up being able to install it in the places where we live, if no one ever makes one then we'll never have one.

The other reason is one we're more passionate about. This is intended to reduce energy usage. It is designed so that it can work in parallel with an air conditioner. The controller has a maximum indoor temperature (which can be adjusted by the user) programmed into it. If the indoor temperature is above this maximum then the window won't open. What this means is that if your air conditioner is programmed to come on at a certain temperature, you don't have to worry that the windows will automatically open when the air conditioning is running, even if it cools down outside. And once it's cool enough, the windows will open and take the load off the air conditioner. Taking advantage of cooler outside temperatures to cool the house will reduce the energy needed to maintain a comfortable inside temperature. This product would hopefully make it more convenient to use outside air to cool the house, instead of relying entirely on the air conditioning.

By doing a project which showcases a more environmentally-friendly way to cool a house, we also have the hope that people will become more aware of how they are using energy in thier own home. Although it might not be feasible to install automated windows, showing things which can be done may help others to look for what they can do themselves.