journal article·2025-10Open access

Development of 3D Reversible Smart Energy‐Saving Devices for Adaptive Energy Management

Ho Jun Jin, Junyong Seo, Ha Uk Chung, Minkyu Jung, Simon Kim, Su Eon Lee, Jun Hyun Park, Jun Seok Choe, Sun‐Kyung Kim, Bong Jae Lee, Jin‐Tae Kim, Bong Hoon Kim

Advanced Materials· Volume 37· Issue 43

Abstract

Abstract Conventional 2D thin‐film‐based energy‐saving devices face limitations in controlling phase transition temperatures and in material selectivity. In contrast, 3D devices offer better temperature tunability and broader material options for surface coatings. However, existing designs still face challenges like limited deformation and asymmetric structures, hindering adaptation to varying sunlight incidence and azimuth angles. This study proposes symmetric 3D devices incorporating a shape memory alloy actuator, black paint for solar absorption, and a polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS)/Al 2 O 3 composite as an RC film, exhibiting the following characteristics: i) reversible, continuously tunable 3D mechanical deformation between solar heating (SH) and radiative cooling (RC) modes via a temperature‐responsive actuator; ii) autonomous operation without external power or manual intervention, ensuring energy‐saving functionality; and iii) effective operation across diverse climates with durable, flexible, and adaptable design and adjustable transition temperatures for enhanced thermal responsiveness. Theoretical simulations confirm maximum cooling power reduction of 6.8% in summer and heating power reduction of 5.6% in winter. Performance evaluations under varying tilt angles and solar incidence, along with climate simulations across 15 global zones, validate the effectiveness and adaptability of the device for real‐world applications. These findings highlight its potential as a scalable, sustainable, energy‐efficient solution for future architectural and environmental uses.
Source: crossref · Quality: baseline

Research context

OpenAlex topics: Thermal Radiation and Cooling Technologies · Building Energy and Comfort Optimization · Urban Heat Island Mitigation

SciVX discovery tags are terminology-based. OpenAlex topics are source-provided classifications.

Affiliations

Department of Robotics and Mechatronics Engineering DGIST Daegu 42988 Republic of Korea

Department of Mechanical and Automotive Engineering Kongju National University Cheonan 31080 Republic of Korea

School of Biomedical Engineering Korea University Seoul 02841 Republic of Korea

Technological Collaboration Team 1 HYUNDAI NGV Seoul 08826 Republic of Korea

Department of Applied Physics Kyung Hee University Yongin 17104 Republic of Korea

Department of Mechanical Engineering KAIST Daejeon 34141 Republic of Korea

Department of Mechanical Engineering POSTECH Pohang 37673 Republic of Korea

Institute for Convergence Research and Education in Advanced Technology Yonsei University Seoul 03722 Republic of Korea

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