Integrated, Adaptive and Smart Envelope for Near Zero Energy Buildings.

The current scenario on the energy efficiency of buildings has now sanctioned the strategic role of the envelopes for the achievement of the objectives of controlling consumption and offering high levels of quality of life within the confined spaces, but with undeniable connections and relationships with the outdoor environment in general. Attention focuses on the building envelope, on the high number of performances to be satisfied, on its role as moderator of the flows in and out of the building system, which makes it the decisive element in terms of energy efficient operation, greenhouse gas emissions and living comfort levels. It therefore appears necessary ensure full fulfillment of these objectives starting from the design phase. The use of the term envelope referred to architecture is quite recent and was born as an evolution of the concept closure which identified the vertical and horizontal external infill panels as distinct units.