‘BARCODE ARCHITECTURE’ HAS HUGE POTENTIAL
1st July 2014

With more and more architects choosing natural ventilation over energy-intensive air-conditioning to control the internal environment of a building, the launch of the new Schueco AWS VV ventilation system is opportune.

Arriving in the UK in July, this product – a narrow, side-hung vent – is not simply a practical response to the need for non-mechanical cooling, but is also a system which presents architects with a whole new range of design opportunities through what is sometimes known as ‘barcode architecture’.

The name derives from the way in which when inserted into a curtain wall or ribbon windows, the vents can resemble the vertical lines of barcodes found on product labels the world over. When used creatively, the effect on the external appearance of a building can be visually stunning.

Available in powder coat or anodised finishes, the Schueco AWS VV is thermally insulated, delivering Uw values down to 0.95 W/m2K and can be specified with a rebated or flush external appearance. The vent is inward opening and can be operated easily either by hand or – on request – by concealed TipTronic motor drives that can be linked to a central building management system if required.

Moulded corners, end-pieces and pre-drilled screw ports ensure easy and time-saving fabrication. A split insulating bar obviates the bimetallic effect, ensuring that the unit remains watertight and easy to open and close even in extreme ambient conditions.

Optional limiters with a maximum opening of 100 mm ensure safety in use and multi-point locking gives burglar resistance up to RC2. Schueco AWS VV is available in a variety of widths: 170 mm, 250 mm and 300 mm, with heights from 750 mm to 3000 mm, enabling it to cater for a wide range of ventilation requirements.

Concealed fittings based on Schueco’s AvanTec SimplySmart range come as standard, while variable height handles enhance installation flexibility. The system is fitted into existing 65, 70, 75 and 90 mm outer frames and is suitable for use with Schueco AWS, AWS BS and AWS WF systems including façades.

www.schueco.co.uk