The utilization of solar-thermal energy and universal cold energy has led to many innovative designs that achieve effective temperature regulation in different application scenarios. Numerous studies on passive solar heating and radiation cooling often operate independently (or actively control the conversion) and lack a cohesive framework for deep connections. This work provides a concise overview of the recent breakthroughs in solar heating and radiation cooling by employing a mechanism material in the application model. Furthermore, the utilization of dynamic Janus-like behavior serves as a novel nexus to elucidate the relationship between solar heating and radiation cooling, allowing for the analysis of dynamic conversion strategies across various applications. Additionally, special discussions are provided to address specific requirements in diverse applications, such as optimizing light transmission for clothing or window glass. Finally, the challenges and opportunities associated with the development of solar heating and radiation cooling applications are underscored, which hold immense potential for substantial carbon emission reduction and environmental preservation. This work aims to ignite interest and lay a solid foundation for researchers to conduct in-depth studies on effective and self-adaptive regulation of cooling and heating.
Keywords: dynamic Janus‐like application; radiation cooling; solar heating; spectral modulation; sun/universe‐earth system.
© 2024 The Authors. Small published by Wiley‐VCH GmbH.