first active thermal glass facade system
managing energy-flows
We Disrupt Building
flowX is a groundbreaking technology startup and a spin-off of GlassX AG. We are revolutionizing the building industry with our patented, fluid-based glass façade system that dynamically manages energy flows where they matter most – in the building envelope.
By integrating heating, cooling, insulation, shading, and smart-home energy management into a single adaptive solution, flowX dramatically reduces energy consumption up to 67%, and inital investment costs by 10%, and operating costs by 28% while elevating architectural design.
Research History
UNI LI
Liechtenstein University's Fluidglass project creates window panes with circulating liquid that function as solar collectors while providing shading, heating, and cooling. The €5.1M EU-backed research is being tested in both cold and hot climates.
CORDIS
FLUIDGLASS turns glass facades into transparent solar collectors that control energy flow, combining multiple functions while reducing energy use by 20-70%, with proven performance in various climates and no market competitors.
Research Partners
Our Mission
Intelligent Integration
By leveraging IoT and AI, flowX optimizes energy in real time. The system adapts to external conditions, ensuring consistent comfort and lower environmental impact. This data-driven approach supports predictive maintenance, maximizing efficiency over a building’s lifecycle. flowX integrates seamlessly with modern platforms.
Aesthetic Excellence
flowX’s transparent façade empowers architects with design freedom. It transforms building exteriors into energy-efficient canvases, blending elegance and sustainability. By fitting diverse styles, flowX merges form and function. This synergy stands out in modern eco-conscious markets worldwide & more.
Cost Savings & Efficiency
flowX targets the biggest energy flows in a building envelope. By replacing multiple systems (HVAC, shading, solar), we minimize installation and operating costs. Owners save millions on energy and construction while lowering carbon footprints. This yields strong returns and boosts property value.
Our Solution - flowX
Inner Fluid Layer – Heating Function
The heating component of flowX’s inner layer actively warms indoor spaces during cold conditions. Utilizing advanced fluid circulation and intelligent controls, it delivers efficient, on-demand warmth while reducing reliance on conventional heating systems. This targeted heating approach ensures optimal comfort and improved energy performance, even in low-temperature environments.
Inner Fluid Layer – Cooling Function
flowX’s inner layer also features a dedicated cooling function that rapidly responds to rising indoor temperatures. By circulating the fluid in a cooling mode, it absorbs and dissipates excess heat, maintaining a comfortable interior climate during hot conditions. This proactive cooling strategy minimizes energy consumption and reduces the need for traditional air-conditioning systems.
Outer Fluid Layer – Shading & Solar Collector
flowX’s outer fluid layer is enhanced with nanoparticles that dynamically adjust its transparency. By modulating light transmission in real time, this layer effectively shades the interior, reduces glare and excess heat, and acts as a solar collector to capture surplus thermal energy. This smart, adaptive layer minimizes unwanted solar gains while preserving clear views, contributing to both energy savings and a refined architectural appearance.
10% Reduced Floor Height – Building Cost Savings
flowX’s compact design reduces each floor’s height by 10%, lowering the requirement for oversized HVAC systems and reducing material use. This innovation cuts construction costs and increases usable space, while simultaneously enhancing energy efficiency. The optimized building envelope supports modern, sustainable architecture with clear economic and environmental benefits.
Adaptive Performance: All Seasons
flowX’s dual-layer façade excels in any climate zone, from sub-zero winters to desert-level heat. Field-tested in both cold (Vaduz, Liechtenstein) and hot (Nicosia, Cyprus) conditions. This versatile design ensures reliable performance and optimal comfort year-round, cutting energy use while maintaining comfortable indoor temperatures.
Adaptive Performance: Day & Night
By seamlessly transitioning between transparent and opaque states, flowX regulates heat gain and light transmission around the clock. During daylight, the system reduces glare and unwanted solar influx; at night, it preserves warmth or supports cooling as needed. These real-time adjustments — guided by IoT sensors and intelligent controls — guarantee balanced comfort and energy efficiency through every phase of the day, regardless of external conditions.
Who are we?
Prof. Dietrich Schwarz
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Niels Fetkenheuer
CEO
Dennis Markmann
CMO
Wolfgang Simma-Wallinger
COO
Felix Tran
CTOAdvisory Board
Prof. Dr. Leo Brecht
Advisory Board - Business
Prof. Dr. Heinrich Manz
Advisory Board – Building Physics
Prof. Dr. Olivier Steiger
Advisory Board – Control
Prof. Dr. Zoran Alimpic
Advisory Board – Building TechnologyWhat's Next for flowX
Join our Journey
flowX is actively seeking strategic partnerships with developers, architects, investors, and research institutions committed to a sustainable future.
Let’s collaborate to transform building technology and drive the next wave of innovation in energy-efficient design.
Start Summit 2025
flowX is attending Start Summit 2025 to connect with investors, industry leaders, and innovators who share our vision for energy-efficient building technology.
Meet us their to explore how FlowX can drive the future of smart buildings!
Achievements
flowX has successfully demonstrated a proof-of-concept validated and backed by a €5.1M EU-funded project. Our prototype met every performance metric, confirming flowX’s capacity to lower energy consumption and reduce carbon emissions.