SageGlass LightZone, a product capable of creating up to three levels of tint within a single pane of electrochromic glass, can now be controlled by voice, thanks to integration with Amazon Echo.
Occupants can now control the dynamic glass’ tint via simple voice commands to optimise daylight and outdoor views while preventing heat gain and glare. This offering is expected to be integrated into larger building management systems so building owners and facilities managers can manage SageGlass along with other voice-enabled smart devices in the building.
"The use of IoT (Internet of Things) technologies such as voice in buildings is growing in popularity as building owners place more emphasis on occupant comfort, convenience and productivity," said Alan McLenaghan, CEO of SageGlass. "SageGlass can already be integrated with most building management systems and controlled via mobile app, so the next natural technological progression for our dynamic glass is the use of voice commands as an added convenience to building owners and occupants."
SageGlass’ integration with Amazon Echo provides occupants with additional flexibility so they can control the dynamic tinting of the glass without the need for facilities management intervention, a wall switch or mobile app. Occupants can make statements using the wake word ("Alexa") such as "Alexa, ask SageGlass to reduce glare," or "Alexa, ask SageGlass to let the warm sunshine in," and watch the glass tint in accordance with the command. SageGlass provides smart building installation documentation and sample code, detailing how SageGlass can be integrated with other building management components and Amazon Web Services.
“We feel voice control can empower occupants by providing them with command over the lighting conditions in their building. Providing this sense of empowerment has been proven to have a positive impact on all occupants, from increasing patient recovery rates in the healthcare setting to improving productivity in the workplace," McLenaghan added.
SageGlass has completed its first Amazon Echo integration at the Saint-Gobain and CertainTeed North American HQ.