For many years, European architects have specified external Venetian blinds because experience has shown it to be the most efficient and flexible means of solar control. Because they are fitted externally, heat transfer to the interior is minimal, resulting in the lowest shading coefficient of any window treatment. They also control light diffusion and eliminate glare without impeding ventilation.

Trojan external Venetian blinds have 80mm-wide slats with roll-formed edges for maximum rigidity. They offer complete operational flexibility; they can be raised in winter or on overcast days and the tilt angle can be adjusted to admit natural daylight as required. This is accomplished by remote control from the interior, either manually or by motorised devices.

Even on sunny days there is the likelihood of moderate to strong winds. These blinds embody many special features to resist wind attack. The design includes several built-in safety devices to prevent damage during operation. Consequently, Trojan blinds are ideal for use with control systems incorporating solar-cell actuators, time clocks and anemometer override controls. They are also suitable for interfacing with computer-based building management systems.

CLIMATE CONTROL

Blinds with slats opening at a 450 angle before clear insulating glass will transmit only 10% radiation, allowing a reduction, or even the elimination, of expensive air-conditioning equipment.

LIGHT DISTRIBUTION

Daylight distribution to the interior may be improved by adjusting the slat angle of the Trojan blind. This enables expensive artificial lighting costs to be reduced by redistributing high levels of light intensity close to the window to the darker recesses of the room. Another benefit is that eye fatigue caused by light glare and repeated vision adjustment from the brighter to darker areas of the room is avoided.

The Sunshield non-retractable louvre blind system has been designed for internal or external installation and is particularly suitable for horizontal, sloping or unusually-shaped glazed areas. The fully-adjustable louvres, made from aluminium or wood, reduce solar heat gain, control glare, allow outward vision yet at the same time ensure best use of natural light. Extruded sections in mill finish, polyester powder coatings or anodised aluminium, plus nylon components, make Sunshield a cost-effective, low-maintenance sunshading method. Blade widths are from 50mm, 80mm and 88mm. They are supplied in a wide range of colours and can be used not only for conservatories and other domestic installations, but also for many commercial applications such as atria in large public buildings. By adding Autoshade controls, Sunshield may be used in museums, art galleries, libraries, botanical gardens and other locations where precise light level control is important.