Newly available from Schüco International is a specialist software package that enables designers to make best use of Schüco ALB solar shading systems by automatically computing the optimum shading configuration for a particular building and calculating its overall cost.

The software, which can be used for both passive and active Schüco ALB systems, is intuitive and simple to navigate. It requires no specialised knowledge of shading technology and one single program covers design, costing, ordering and manufacture (using self-generated cutting sheets).

Results are location and orientation-specific and if changes are made, it is extremely simple to re-edit the design to take account of new data. The integral costing module allows designs, including those using bespoke profiles, to be priced quickly and accurately.

Schüco believes that an effective solar shading system such as Schüco ALB can contribute significantly to lowering demand for internal air-conditioning, thereby promoting the efficient use of energy and minimising a building’s carbon footprint in line with the company's Energy2 initiative: 'Saving Energy – Generating Energy.'

• Schüco