Method and apparatus for personalizing settings of building areas

Abstract

The invention relates to a method and an apparatus for personalizing settings of a building area. In one aspect, a device is described that includes a transparent pane having a first surface and a second surface. An electrochromic device (ECD) is disposed on the second surface including a first conductive layer adjacent the second surface, a second conductive layer, and an electrochromic layer between the first conductive layer and the second conductive layer. The device also includes at least one conductive antenna structure disposed on the second surface.

Description

[0001] Information about divisional applications

[0002] This case is a divisional application. The original application (the first application) of this divisional case is an invention patent application with an application date of November 24, 2015, an application number of 201580070207.9, and an invention name of "Window Antenna". In response to the above original application, the applicant filed an invention patent application with an application number of 201911227990.1 and an invention name of "Window Antenna". In response to the application with application number 201911227990.1, its first examination opinion notice pointed out that the application had a unity defect. Based on this, the applicant filed an invention patent application with application number 202011606768.5 and an invention name of "Method and device for personalizing the setting of building areas". In response to the application with application number 202011606768.5, its first examination opinion notice pointed out that the application had a unity defect. Based on this, the applicant now filed this divisional application.

[0003] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0004] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 084,502, filed on November 25, 2014, and entitled “Window Antenna,” which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety and for all purposes. Technical Field

[0005] The present disclosure generally relates to electrochromic devices that may be used in electrochromic windows of buildings or other structures. background

[0006] Electrochromism is the phenomenon that a material exhibits a reversible electrochemically mediated change of one or more optical properties when it is excited to a different electronic state. Electrochromic materials and devices made from them can be incorporated into windows, for example, for home, commercial or other uses. By inducing a change in an electrochromic material, such as by applying a voltage to the electrochromic material, the color, transmittance, absorbance or reflectivity of such electrochromic windows can be changed. This ability can allow control of the intensity of light of various wavelengths that may pass through the window. For example, a first voltage applied to an electrochromic device of a window can cause the window to darken, while a second voltage can cause the window to lighten.

[0007] Electrochromic devices, like most controllable optically switchable devices, contain electrical connections for controlling the application of electrical excitation (e.g., in the form of controlled applied voltage and / or current) to drive optical transitions and / or maintain optical states. Electrochromic devices are often implemented as very thin layers covering the face of a surface such as a window surface. Such devices typically include a transparent conductor, typically in the form of one or more layers that cover the electrochromic electrodes and distribute the applied voltage across the face of the device to achieve complete and efficient light transmission.

[0008] Overview

[0009] One aspect of the present disclosure relates to a window antenna characterized by the following features: (a) a window having one or more lites, each including at least two surfaces having an area configured for viewing through the window; (b) an electrochromic device disposed on a first surface of the window; (c) an antenna structure disposed on a first surface or a second surface of the window; and (d) a ground plane disposed on the first surface of the window, the second surface of the window, the third surface of the window, or a structure connected to the window. In some embodiments, the lite has a length or width of at least about 60 inches. In some embodiments, the electrochromic device does not have an ionic conductor deposited between the electrochromic layer and the counter electrode layer.

[0010] The antenna structure can have various configurations such as strip lines or patches. In some embodiments, the strip line or patch structure can be used as part of a monopole antenna. In one such embodiment, the strip line has an axis along its length and the ground plane is substantially perpendicular to the axis of the strip line. Such a ground plane is disposed on the same surface as the antenna structure or on a structure connected to a window. In some embodiments, the strip line has an axis along its length and the ground plane is substantially parallel to the axis of the strip line. The ground plane can be provided on a plane different from the strip line, for example, provided on different surfaces of the window. In some embodiments, the antenna structure includes two strip lines, wherein the strip lines are configured as a dipole antenna. In some embodiments, the two strip lines are substantially parallel. Unless otherwise specified herein, all references to the strip line can be replaced with references to the patch.

[0011] In certain embodiments, the antenna structure comprises a fractal structure. In one example, the fractal structure is arranged on a plane, and wherein the ground plane is substantially perpendicular to the plane of the fractal structure. In some such examples, the ground plane is arranged on the same surface as the antenna structure. In some such examples, the ground plane is arranged on a structure connected to a window. In certain embodiments, the fractal structure is arranged on a plane, and the ground plane is substantially parallel to the plane of the fractal structure (e.g., located on a separate surface).

[0012] In certain embodiments, the antenna structure is configured as a dipole antenna such as a Yagi antenna or a log-periodic antenna.

[0013] In some implementations, the window antenna further includes an antenna controller. In some cases, the antenna controller is disposed on the window. In certain embodiments, the antenna controller includes a transmitter and / or a receiver for the antenna structure. In some implementations, the window antenna further includes a window controller configured to control the optical transition of the electrochromic device. In some cases, the window controller and the antenna controller are disposed in a single carrier and / or housing.

[0014] Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a system comprising: (i) multiple window antennas as described in any of the embodiments presented herein; (ii) multiple controllers, each of the multiple controllers being configured to: (A) drive an electrochromic device; and (B) drive at least one antenna structure in each window antenna; and (iii) a network controller for providing instructions to the multiple controllers.

[0015] Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to an insulating glass unit (IGU) that can be characterized by the following features: (a) two or more sheets, each of the two or more sheets having at least two surfaces, the at least two surfaces having an area configured for viewing through the IGU; (b) a spacer that separates the sheets from each other, wherein the spacer is provided adjacent to the peripheral area of ​​the sheet; (c) an antenna structure that is disposed on a surface of the sheet, on the spacer, or on an electrical connector on the IGU; and (d) a ground plane that is disposed on the IGU or a frame structure to which the IGU is mounted. In certain embodiments, at least one sheet of the IGU has a length or width of at least about 60 inches.

[0016] In the IGU, the antenna structure can have various configurations such as strip lines or patches. In some embodiments, the strip line or patch structure can be used as part of a monopole antenna. In one such embodiment, the strip line has an axis along its length and the ground plane is substantially perpendicular to the axis of the strip line. This ground plane is disposed on the same surface as the antenna structure or is disposed on a structure connected to the window (for example, disposed on a spacer or on a frame structure, a vertical frame or a horizontal bar). In some embodiments, the strip line has an axis along its length and the ground plane is substantially parallel to the axis of the strip line. The ground plane can be provided on a plane different from the strip line, for example, provided on different surfaces of the window. In some embodiments, the antenna structure includes two strip lines, wherein the strip lines are configured as a dipole antenna. In some embodiments, the two strip lines are substantially parallel.

[0017] In certain IGU embodiments, the antenna structure comprises a fractal structure. In one example, the fractal structure is disposed on a plane, and wherein the ground plane is substantially perpendicular to the plane of the fractal structure. In some such examples, the ground plane is disposed on the same surface as the antenna structure. In some such examples, the ground plane is disposed on a structure connected to the window (e.g., on a spacer or on a frame structure, a vertical frame or a horizontal bar). In certain embodiments, the fractal structure is disposed on a plane, and the ground plane is substantially parallel to the plane of the fractal structure (e.g., located on a separate surface).

[0018] In certain embodiments, the antenna structure is configured as a dipole antenna such as a Yagi antenna or a log-periodic antenna.

[0019] In some implementations, the window antenna further includes an antenna controller. In some cases, the antenna controller is disposed on the window. In certain embodiments, the antenna controller includes a transmitter and / or a receiver for the antenna structure. In some implementations, the window antenna further includes a window controller configured to control the optical transition of the electrochromic device. In some cases, the window controller and the antenna controller are disposed in a single carrier and / or housing.

[0020] In certain embodiments, the sheet of the IGU includes an electrochromic device disposed on a first surface. In certain embodiments, the electrochromic device does not have an ionic conductor deposited between the electrochromic layer and the counter electrode layer.

[0021] Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a system comprising: (i) a plurality of IGUs as described in any of the embodiments presented herein; (ii) a plurality of controllers, each of the plurality of controllers being configured to: (A) drive an electrochromic device disposed in the IGU; and (B) drive at least one antenna structure in each IGU; and (iii) a network controller for providing instructions to the plurality of controllers.

[0022] Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a building that can be characterized by: (a) a plurality of windows, each of the plurality of windows having one or more panels; (b) a plurality of antennas disposed on the plurality of windows; and (c) control logic configured to operate the antennas of the building as cellular base stations or cellular repeaters.

[0023] In some aspects, the building includes the following features: (a) a controller network comprising control logic for generating one or more control signals; (b) a plurality of transmitters, each of the plurality of transmitters being configured to generate a transmit signal based on one or more of the control signals; (c) a plurality of windows; and (d) a plurality of antennas in or on the windows, each antenna being configured to radiate at least one transmit signal from at least one corresponding transmitter.

[0024] In some embodiments, the transmitter includes (i) a carrier signal generator for generating a carrier signal having a carrier amplitude and a carrier frequency; and (ii) a modulator for modulating the carrier signal to provide a transmission signal. In some embodiments, the modulator is configured to perform one or more of amplitude modulation, frequency modulation, and phase modulation of the carrier signal to provide the transmission signal. In some embodiments, the modulator is configured to perform code division multiple access (CDMA) modulation of the carrier signal to provide the transmission signal.

[0025] In some implementations, the building further includes a plurality of receivers for demodulating signals received from the antennas. In some implementations, the controller network includes a plurality of distributed antenna controllers and at least one master controller or network controller. In some examples, at least one master controller or network controller includes control logic for communicating with a base station controller (BSC). The control logic may be at least partially distributed between the master controller and the distributed antenna controllers. In certain embodiments, the control logic includes spatial filtering logic for generating control signals based on spatial filtering, and the radiated transmit signals have a common wavefront based on spatial filtering. In certain embodiments, the controller network is also configured to control the optical state of the window.

[0026] In some implementations, the building further includes (i) a plurality of receivers for receiving signals from the antennas; and (ii) a plurality of amplifiers for amplifying the received signals, wherein the transmit signal is based on the amplified signals.

[0027] In some embodiments, the building further includes (i) multiple receivers for receiving signals from the antenna, the received signals being associated with a first wireless communication protocol; and (ii) multiple protocol converters for converting the received signals from the first wireless communication protocol to a second wireless communication protocol, wherein the transmitted signal is the converted signal.

[0028] Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a window antenna that can be characterized by the following features: (a) a window having one or more sheets, each of the one or more sheets including (i) two surfaces having an area configured for viewing through the window; and (ii) a peripheral edge separating the two surfaces; (b) an antenna disposed on the window; (c) a controller including an antenna transmitter and / or receiver; and (d) an electrical interconnect located between the controller and the antenna, wherein the electrical interconnect passes through and contacts the peripheral edge of at least one sheet. In some embodiments, at least one sheet of the window antenna has a length or width of at least about 60 inches.

[0029] In some embodiments, the antenna includes an antenna structure and a ground plane. The electrical interconnect may include a cable having a ground conductor connected to the ground plane and a power conductor connected to the antenna structure, wherein the ground conductor and the power conductor are separated near a peripheral edge of at least one sheet.

[0030] In some embodiments, the electrical interconnect comprises a tape comprising an adhesive material and a conductor. In some examples, the tape comprises three parallel conductors: a center wire for carrying signals between the antenna structure and the controller and two outer wires for grounding. In some examples, the window antenna further comprises a connector disposed on or near a peripheral edge of at least one sheet, wherein the tape electrically connects the antenna to the connector, and wherein separate conductors electrically connect the controller to the connector.

[0031] In certain embodiments, the window comprises at least two sheets separated by a spacer separating the sheets from each other, wherein the spacer is provided near a peripheral region of the sheets, and wherein the electrical interconnect passes through the spacer.

[0032] In certain embodiments, the antenna of the present aspect includes an antenna structure and a ground plane. As in the various aspects described above, the antenna structure can have various configurations such as a stripline or a patch. In certain embodiments, a stripline or patch structure can be used as a part of a monopole antenna. In one such embodiment, the stripline has an axis along its length and the ground plane is substantially perpendicular to the axis of the stripline. This ground plane is disposed on the same surface as the antenna structure or is disposed on a structure connected to a window. In certain embodiments, the stripline has an axis along its length and the ground plane is substantially parallel to the axis of the stripline. The ground plane can be provided on a plane different from the stripline, for example, provided on different surfaces of a window. In certain embodiments, the antenna structure includes two striplines, wherein the striplines are configured as a dipole antenna. In some embodiments, the two striplines are substantially parallel.

[0033] In certain embodiments of this aspect of the present disclosure, the antenna structure comprises a fractal structure. In one example, the fractal structure is arranged on a plane, and wherein the ground plane is substantially perpendicular to the plane of the fractal structure. In some such examples, the ground plane is arranged on the same surface as the antenna structure. In some such examples, the ground plane is arranged on a structure connected to a window. In certain embodiments, the fractal structure is arranged on a plane, and the ground plane is substantially parallel to the plane of the fractal structure (e.g., located on a separate surface).

[0034] In certain embodiments, the antenna structure is configured as a dipole antenna such as a Yagi antenna or a log-periodic antenna.

[0035] In some implementations of this aspect of the present disclosure, a controller for the window antenna is disposed on the window. In certain embodiments, the antenna controller includes a transmitter and / or receiver for the antenna structure. In some implementations, the window antenna further includes a window controller configured to control the optical transition of the electrochromic device. In some cases, the window controller and the antenna controller are disposed in a single carrier and / or housing.

[0036] In certain embodiments, the surface of the sheet of window antenna includes an electrochromic device disposed on a first surface. In certain embodiments, the electrochromic device does not have an ionic conductor deposited between the electrochromic layer and the counter electrode layer.

[0037] Another embodiment of this aspect of the present disclosure relates to a system comprising: (i) a plurality of window antennas as described in any of the embodiments presented herein; (ii) a plurality of controllers, each of the plurality of controllers being configured to: (A) drive an electrochromic device; and (B) drive at least one antenna structure in each window antenna; and (iii) a network controller for providing instructions to the plurality of controllers.

[0038] Certain aspects of the present disclosure relate to personalizing settings for an area of ​​a building, wherein the settings are defined for a particular user. A method for personalizing settings may include the following operations: (a) establishing a communication link between a mobile device carried by a user and a window antenna in the area of ​​the building, wherein the communication link may be established only when the mobile device is within or near the area; (b) receiving user identification information via the communication link; (c) determining one or more settings for user identification in the area of ​​the building; and (d) applying the determined settings in the area of ​​the building.

[0039] In some embodiments, the personalization method uses one or more settings selected from the group consisting of: (i) a tint level for one or more windows in an area of ​​a building; (ii) allowing communication shielding in an area of ​​a building; (iii) allowing notifications based on the location of a mobile device in an area of ​​a building; (iv) allowing one or more settings to be communicated to one or more non-window systems in an area of ​​a building; (v) allowing wireless charging of one or more battery-powered devices (e.g., mobile devices) in an area of ​​a building; and (vi) combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the one or more settings include a tint level for windows in an area of ​​a building.

[0040] In certain embodiments, the one or more non-window systems are selected from the group consisting of: a temperature control system for an area of ​​a building; a lighting system for an area of ​​a building; and a locking system for an area of ​​a building.

[0041] These and other features of the window antenna will be further described in the detailed description with reference to the associated figures. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0042] Figure 1A A description of an example system for controlling and driving multiple electrochromic windows is shown.

[0043] Figure 1B A description of another example system for controlling and driving a plurality of electrochromic windows is shown.

[0044] Figure 1C A block diagram of an example network system 120 operable to control multiple IGUs according to some implementations is shown.

[0045] Figure 1D Schematic diagram of EC window controller.

[0046] FIG. 2A to FIG. 2J A cross-sectional view of an example electrochromic window structure with an integrated antenna capable of transmitting signals to or receiving signals from an indoor environment is shown in accordance with some implementations.

[0047] FIG. 3A to FIG. 3J A cross-sectional view of an example electrochromic window structure with an integrated antenna capable of transmitting signals to or receiving signals from an outdoor environment is shown in accordance with some implementations.

[0048] Figure 4A and Figure 4B A cross-sectional view of an example electrochromic window structure with an integrated antenna capable of transmitting and receiving signals to and from indoor and outdoor environments is shown in accordance with some implementations.

[0049] Figure 5A and Figure 5B A cross-sectional view of an example electrochromic window structure with an integrated antenna is shown according to some implementations.

[0050] Fig. 6A and Figure 6B A plan view of an example electrochromic window structure with an integrated antenna according to some implementations is shown. The plan view is taken from the front from the perspective of the window, as seen, for example, by a building occupant standing in a room where the window is mounted on a wall or facade.

[0051] Fig. 7A and Figure 7B A top view of an example electrochromic window structure with an integrated multi-structure antenna is shown according to some implementations.

[0052] FIG. 8A to FIG. 8C Examples and information about the Sierpinski fractal window antenna are shown.

[0053] Fig.8D and Fig. 8E A top view of an example electrochromic window structure with an integrated fractal-based antenna is shown, according to some implementations.

[0054] Fig.9A A simplified view of an example monopole antenna for a window is shown.

[0055] FIG. 9B to FIG. 9C Example embodiments are shown in which multiple antennas are provided on a sheet and / or other window structure.

[0056] Fig.9D An example of a patch antenna and a ground plane strip disposed on the same surface of a sheet is shown.

[0057] FIG. 10A to FIG. 10F Various interconnect structures are shown for providing separate connections to the antenna structures and the ground plane.

[0058] FIG. 11A to FIG. 11H Designs are shown where an antenna controller (receiver and / or transmitter logic) is in some cases provided on the window along with a window controller and arranged to convey signals for communication with antenna elements on the window.

[0059] Fig.12 An example array of electrochromic window structures with integrated antennas is shown according to some implementations.

[0060] Fig.13A and Fig. 13B A conventional cell tower network and a cellular network where buildings equipped with antenna glass serve as cell towers are described separately.

[0061] FIG. 14A to FIG. 14GVarious aspects of certain embodiments for commissioning switchable windows in a building or other facility using window antennas are described.

[0062] In the various drawings, like reference numbers and symbols denote like elements. Detailed Description

[0063] The following detailed description relates to certain embodiments or implementations for the purpose of describing the disclosed aspects. However, the teachings of this article can be applied and implemented in a variety of different ways. In the following detailed description, reference is made to the accompanying drawings. Although the disclosed implementations are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice these implementations, it should be understood that these examples are not limiting; other implementations can be used and various changes can be made to the disclosed implementations without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. In addition, although the disclosed embodiments focus on electrochromic windows (also known as smart windows), the concepts disclosed herein can be applied to other types of switchable optical devices, including, for example, liquid crystal devices and suspended particle devices. For example, liquid crystal devices or suspended particle devices rather than electrochromic devices can be incorporated into some or all of the disclosed implementations. In addition, unless otherwise stated, the conjunction "or" is intended to be included in this article where appropriate; for example, the phrase "A, B or C" is intended to include the possibilities of "A", "B", "C", "A and B", "B and C", "A and C" and "A, B and C".

[0064] Window Controller Network

[0065] Figure 1AA description of an example system 100 for controlling and driving a plurality of electrochromic windows 102 is shown. The example system may also be used to control the operation of one or more window antennas as described elsewhere herein. The system 100 may be applicable to a building 104 such as a commercial office building or a residential building. In some implementations, the system 100 is designed (hereinafter "designed to", "adapted to", "configured to", "programmed to", "operable to" and "capable of" may be used interchangeably where appropriate) to be used in conjunction with a modern heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system 106, an indoor lighting system 107, a security system 108 and a power system 109 as a single comprehensive and effective energy control system for the entire building 104 or a campus having a building 104. Some implementations of the system 100 are particularly suitable for integration with a building management system (BMS) 110. The BMS 110 is a computer-based control system that can be installed in a building to monitor and control the building's electromechanical equipment, such as an HVAC system, a lighting system, a power system, an elevator, a fire protection system and a security system. The BMS 110 may include hardware and associated firmware or software for maintaining conditions in the building 104 according to preferences set by occupants or a building manager or other administrator. The software may be based on, for example, Internet protocols or open standards.

[0066] BMS can be generally used in large buildings, where it is used to control the environment within the building. For example, BMS110 can control lighting, temperature, carbon dioxide level and humidity within building 104. There can be many mechanical devices or electrical devices controlled by BMS110, including, for example, furnaces or other heaters, air conditioners, blowers and vents. In order to control the building environment, BMS110 can turn on and off these various devices according to rules or in response to conditions. Such rules and conditions can be selected or specified by, for example, a building manager or manager. A main function of BMS110 is to maintain a comfortable environment for the occupants of building 104 while minimizing heating and cooling energy loss and cost. In some implementations, BMS110 can not only be configured to monitor and control, but also can optimize the synergy between various systems, such as saving energy and reducing building operating costs.

[0067] Alternatively or in addition, some implementations are designed to act responsively or reactively based on feedback sensed by, for example, thermal sensors, optical sensors, or other sensors, or by, for example, inputs from HVAC or indoor lighting systems, or inputs from user controls. More information can be found in U.S. Pat. No. 8,705,162, issued April 22, 2014, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Some implementations can also be used in existing structures, including both commercial and residential structures, with traditional or conventional HVAC or indoor lighting systems. Some implementations can also be retrofitted for use in older homes.

[0068] The system 100 includes a network controller 112 configured to control a plurality of window controllers 114. For example, the network controller 112 may control tens, hundreds, or even thousands of window controllers 114. Each window controller 114 may then control and drive one or more electrochromic windows 102. In some implementations, the network controller 112 issues high-level instructions such as the final tinting state of the electrochromic window, and the window controller receives these commands and directly controls their windows by applying electrical excitation to appropriately drive the tinting state transition and / or maintain the tinting state. The number and size of the electrochromic windows 102 that each window controller 114 can drive are generally limited by the voltage and current characteristics of the load on the window controller 114 that controls the respective electrochromic windows 102. In some implementations, the maximum window size that each window controller 114 can drive is limited by voltage, current, or power requirements so that the desired optical transition occurs in the electrochromic window 102 within the desired time frame. Such requirements are then a function of the window surface area. In some implementations, this relationship is nonlinear. For example, the voltage, current, or power requirements may increase nonlinearly with the surface area of ​​the electrochromic window 102. For example, in some cases, the relationship is nonlinear due at least in part to the first conductive layer 214 and the second conductive layer 216 (e.g., see Figure 2A ) increases nonlinearly with the distance of the length and width of the first conductive layer or the second conductive layer. However, in some implementations, the relationship between the voltage, current, or power requirements required to drive multiple electrochromic windows 102 of the same size and shape is proportional to the number of electrochromic windows 102 being driven.

[0069] Figure 1B A depiction of another example system 100 for controlling and driving a plurality of electrochromic windows 102 is shown. Figure 1B The system 100 shown is similar to that of reference Figure 1A The system 100 shown and described herein. Figure 1A In contrast to the system Figure 1B The system 100 shown includes a main controller 111. The main controller 111 communicates with and functions in conjunction with a plurality of network controllers 112, each of which can be configured as described in reference Figure 1A Multiple window controllers 114 are addressed as described. In some implementations, the master controller 111 issues high-level instructions (such as the final tint state of the electrochromic window) to the network controller 112, and the network controller 112 then transmits the instructions to the corresponding window controllers 114.

[0070] In some implementations, the various electrochromic windows 102 and / or antennas of a building or other structure are advantageously grouped into zones or zone groups, each of which includes a subset of electrochromic windows 102. For example, each zone may correspond to a group of electrochromic windows 102 in a specific location or area of ​​a building that should be tinted (or otherwise transformed) to the same or similar optical state based on their location. As a more specific example, consider a building with four faces or sides: north; south; east; and west. Also consider that the building has ten floors. In such a teaching example, each zone may correspond to a group of electrochromic windows 102 on a specific floor and a specific one of the four faces. In some such implementations, each network controller 112 may address one or more zones or zone groups. For example, the master controller 111 may issue a final tinting state command for a specific zone or zone group to each one or more of the network controllers 112. For example, the final tinting state command may include an abstract identification of each target zone. The designated network controller 112 receiving the final tint state command may then map the abstract identification of the zone to a specific network address of a respective window controller 114 , which controls the voltage or current distribution to be applied to the electrochromic windows 102 in the zone.

[0071] In additional aspects where the electrochromic window may have, for example, an antenna configured for one or more purposes, the window zones used for tinting purposes may or may not correspond to zones for antenna-related functions. For example, a master controller and / or network controller may identify two different window zones for tinting purposes, e.g., windows for two floors on a single side of a building, where each floor has a different tinting algorithm based on customer preference. At the same time, the two tinting zones may be a single zone for antenna transmission and / or reception purposes, or the "antenna zone" may include other windows, either individually or as zones. Antenna-EC glass enables a wide range of functionality by providing the unique functionality of a tintable coating and an antenna. The antenna may be used not only for the tintable coating functionality, but also for other functions described in more detail herein.

[0072] Aspects of a network system for optically switchable windows and associated antennas are further described in U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 248,181, filed on October 29, 2015, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0073] In many cases, the optically switchable windows may form or occupy a substantial portion of a building envelope. For example, the optically switchable windows may form a substantial portion of a wall, facade, and even a roof of a corporate office building, other commercial building, or residential building. In various implementations, a distributed controller network may be used to control the optically switchable windows. Figure 1CA block diagram of an example network system 300 operable to control multiple IGUs 302 using window antennas according to some implementations is shown. For example, each of the IGUs 302 can be the same or similar to the IGU 100 described above with reference to FIG. 1. One of the main functions of the network system 300 is to control the optical state of the ECD (or other optically switchable device) and / or the transmission and / or reception characteristics of the window antenna within the IGU 302. In some implementations, one or more of the windows 302 can be multi-zone windows, for example, where each window includes two or more independently controllable ECDs or zones. In various implementations, the network system 300 can be operable to control the electrical characteristics of the power signal provided to the IGU 302. For example, the network system 300 can generate and transmit shading instructions (also referred to herein as "shading commands") to control the voltage applied to the ECD within the IGU 302.

[0074] In some implementations, another function of the network system 300 is to obtain status information (hereinafter "information" and "data" are used interchangeably) from the IGU 302. For example, the status information of a given IGU may include identification of or information about the current tinting state of the ECD within the IGU. The network system 300 may also be operable to obtain data from various sensors such as temperature sensors, photoelectric sensors (also referred to herein as light sensors), humidity sensors, air flow sensors or occupancy sensors, antennas (whether integrated on or within the IGU 302 or located at various other locations in, on, or around the building).

[0075] The network system 300 may include any suitable number of distributed controllers with various capabilities or functions. In some implementations, the functions and arrangements of the various controllers are defined hierarchically. For example, the network system 300 includes a plurality of distributed window controllers (WC) 304, a plurality of network controllers (NC) 306, and a master controller (MC) 308. In some implementations, the MC 308 may communicate with and control tens or hundreds of NC 306. In various implementations, the MC 308 issues high-level instructions to the NC 306 via one or more wired links or wireless links 316 (hereinafter collectively referred to as "links 316"). The instructions may include, for example, shading commands for causing the optical state of the IGU 302 controlled by each NC 306 to change. Each NC 306 may then communicate with and control multiple WC 304 via one or more wired links or wireless links 314 (hereinafter collectively referred to as "links 314"). For example, each NC 306 may control tens or hundreds of WC 304. Each WC 304 may in turn communicate with, drive, or otherwise control one or more respective IGUs 302 via one or more wired or wireless links 312 (hereinafter collectively referred to as “links 312 ”).

[0076] MC 308 may issue communications including shading commands, state request commands, data (e.g., sensor data) request commands, or other instructions. In some implementations, MC 308 may periodically, at a specific predefined time of day (which may vary based on the day of the week or year), or based on the detection of a specific event, condition, or combination of events or conditions (e.g., as determined by acquired sensor data or based on receiving a request initiated by a user or by an application, or a combination of such sensor data and such request) issue such communications. In some implementations, when MC 308 determines that a shading state change is caused in a group of one or more IGUs 302, MC 308 generates or selects a shading value corresponding to the desired shading state. In some implementations, this group of IGUs 302 is associated with a first protocol identifier (ID) (e.g., BACnet ID). Then, MC 308 generates and sends a communication referred to herein as a "primary shading command" via a first communication protocol (e.g., BACnet compatible protocol) through link 316, including a shading value and a first protocol ID. In some implementations, the MC 308 addresses the primary shading command to a specific NC 306 that controls a specific one or more WCs 304, which in turn controls the transition of the group of IGUs 302. The NC 306 receives the primary shading command including the shading value and the first protocol ID, and maps the first protocol ID to one or more second protocol IDs. In some implementations, each of the second protocol IDs identifies a corresponding one of the WCs 304. The NC 306 then sends a secondary shading command including the shading value to each identified WC 304 via a link 314 via a second communication protocol. In some implementations, each WC 304 that receives the secondary shading command then selects a voltage or current distribution from an internal memory based on the shading value to drive the IGU 302 to which it is respectively connected to a shading state consistent with the shading value. Each WC 304 then generates and provides a voltage or current signal to its respectively connected IGU 302 via a link 312 to apply the voltage or current distribution.

[0077] In some implementations, the various IGUs 302 may be advantageously grouped into zones of EC windows, each zone comprising a subset of IGUs 302. In some implementations, each zone of IGUs 302 is controlled by one or more respective NCs 306 and one or more respective WCs 304 controlled by these NCs 306. In some more specific implementations, each zone may be controlled by a single NC 306 and two or more WCs 304 controlled by a single NC 306. In other words, a zone may represent a logical grouping of IGUs 302. For example, each zone may correspond to a group of IGUs 302 in a specific location or area of ​​a building, which are driven together based on their location. As a more specific example, consider a building with four faces or sides: north; south; east; and west. Also consider that the building has ten floors. In this one teaching example, each zone may correspond to a group of electrochromic windows 100 on a specific floor and a specific one of the four faces. Additionally or alternatively, each zone may correspond to a group of IGUs 302 that share one or more physical characteristics (e.g., device parameters such as size or age). In some other implementations, zones of IGUs 302 may be grouped based on one or more non-physical characteristics (e.g., security designations or business hierarchies) (e.g., IGUs 302 that define administrator offices may be grouped into one or more zones, while IGUs 302 that define non-administrator offices may be grouped into one or more different zones).

[0078] In some such implementations, each NC 306 may address all IGUs 302 for each of one or more respective zones. For example, the MC 308 may send a primary shading command to the NC 306 controlling the target zone. The primary shading command may include an abstract identification of the target zone (hereinafter also referred to as a "zone ID"). In some such implementations, the zone ID may be a first protocol ID such as the ID just described in the above example. In such a case, the NC 306 receives the primary shading command including the shading value and the zone ID, and maps the zone ID to a second protocol ID associated with the WC 304 within the zone. In some other implementations, the zone ID may be a higher level of abstraction than the first protocol ID. In such a case, the NC 306 may first map the zone ID to one or more first protocol IDs, and then map the first protocol ID to the second protocol ID. Although the network examples given herein relate to shading commands for controlling light-tintable windows, it should be understood that these examples also relate to commands for controlling antenna operations in window antennas associated with IGUs.

[0079] Interact with users of the network or third parties

[0080] In some implementations, the MC 308 is coupled to one or more externally facing networks 310 (collectively referred to as "external facing networks 310") via one or more wired links or wireless links 318 (hereinafter referred to as "links 318"). In some such implementations, the MC 308 can transmit acquired state information or sensor data to a remote computer, mobile device, server, database located in or accessible by the externally facing network 310. In some implementations, various applications executing within such remote devices, including third-party applications or cloud-based applications, can access data from or provide data to the MC 308. In some implementations, an authorized user or application can transmit a request to modify the tinting state of various IGUs 302 to the MC 308 via the network 310. In some implementations, the MC 308 can first determine whether to grant permission for the request (e.g., based on power considerations or based on whether the user has appropriate authorization) before issuing a tinting or antenna control command. The MC 308 may then calculate, determine, select, or otherwise generate a shading value and communicate the shading value in a primary shading or other command to cause a shading state transition in the associated IGU 302 .

[0081] For example, a user may submit such a request from a computing device (e.g., a desktop computer, a laptop computer, a tablet computer, or a mobile device (e.g., a smart phone). In some such implementations, the user's computing device may execute a client-side application that is capable of communicating with the MC 308 and, in some cases, communicating with a master controller application executing within the MC 308. In some other implementations, the client-side application may communicate with a separate application in the same or different physical device or system as the MC 308, which then communicates with the master controller application to implement the desired tinting state modification. In some implementations, the master controller application or other separate application may be used to authenticate the user to authorize the request submitted by the user. In some implementations, the user may select an IGU 302 to be tinted or its antenna to be controlled in a particular manner (e.g., activating Wi-Fi service), and inform the MC 308 of these selections by entering a room number via the client-side application.

[0082] Additionally or alternatively, in some implementations, a user's mobile device or other computing device may wirelessly communicate with various WCs 304. For example, a client-side application executing within a user's mobile device may send wireless communications including tinting state control signals to the WC 304 to control the tinting or other state of respective IGUs 302 connected to the WC 304. For example, a user may use a client-side application to maintain or modify the tinting or other state of IGUs 302 adjacent to a room occupied by the user (or to be occupied in the future by the user or others). Such wireless communications may be generated, formatted, or transmitted using various wireless network topologies and protocols (described in more detail below with reference to WC 600 of FIG. 6 ).

[0083] In some such implementations, a control signal sent from a user's mobile device (or other computing device) to a respective WC 304 may override a tint or other value previously received by the WC 304 from a respective NC 306. In other words, the WC 304 may provide an applied voltage to the IGU 302 based on a control signal from the user's computing device rather than based on a tint value. For example, a control algorithm or rule set stored in and executed by the WC 304 may indicate that one or more control signals from an authorized user's computing device take precedence over a tint value received from the NC 306. In some other cases, such as in high demand situations, a control signal such as a tint value from the NC 306 may take precedence over any control signal received by the WC 304 from a user's computing device. In some other cases, the control algorithm or rule set may indicate that tint overrides from only certain users or groups or categories of users may take precedence based on permissions granted to those users, and in some cases, other factors including the time of day or location of the IGU 302.

[0084] In some implementations, based on receiving a control signal from an authorized user's computing device, MC 308 can use information about a combination of known parameters to calculate, determine, select, or otherwise generate a shading value that provides the lighting conditions expected by a typical user, while also taking into account power considerations in other cases. In some other implementations, MC 308 can determine shading or other values ​​based on preset preferences defined by or for a specific user, who requests shading or other state changes via a computing device. For example, a user may be required to enter a password or otherwise log in or obtain authorization to request shading or other state changes. In such a case, MC 308 can determine the identity of the user based on a password, a security token, or an identifier based on a specific mobile device or other computing device. After determining the identity of the user, MC 308 can then retrieve the user's preset preferences and use the preset preferences alone or in combination with other parameters (such as power considerations or information from various sensors) to generate and transmit shading values ​​for shading or otherwise controlling the respective IGU 302.

[0085] Wall Equipment

[0086] In some implementations, the network system 300 may also include a wall switch, a dimmer, or other tinting state control device. Such devices are also collectively referred to as "wall devices" hereinafter, although such devices are not necessarily limited to wall-mounted implementations (e.g., such devices may also be located on the ceiling or floor, or integrated on or within a table or conference table). For example, some or all of an office, conference room, or other room in a building may include such a wall device for controlling the tinting state of adjacent IGUs 302. For example, IGUs 302 adjacent to a particular room may be grouped into a zone. Each of the wall devices may be operated by an end user (e.g., an occupant of each room) to control the tinting state or other functions or parameters of the IGUs 302 adjacent to the room. For example, at certain times of the day, adjacent IGUs 302 may be tinted to a dark state to reduce the amount of light energy entering the room from the outside (e.g., to reduce AC cooling requirements). Now assume that a user wishes to use the room. In various implementations, a user may operate a wall device to convey a control signal, thereby causing the tinting state to change from a dark state to a brighter tinting state.

[0087] In some implementations, each wall device may include one or more switches, buttons, dimmers, dials, or other physical user interface controls that enable a user to select a particular tinting state or to increase or decrease the current tinting level of the IGU 302 adjacent to the room. Additionally or alternatively, the wall device may include a display with a touch screen interface that enables a user to select a particular tinting state (e.g., by selecting a virtual button, selecting from a drop-down menu, or by entering a tinting level or tinting percentage) or to modify a tinting state (e.g., by selecting a "darker" virtual button, a "lighten" virtual button, or by turning a virtual dial or sliding a virtual bar). In some other implementations, the wall device may include a docking interface that enables a user to physically and communicatively dock a portable device such as a smart phone, a multimedia device, a tablet computer, or other portable computing device (e.g., an IPHONE, IPOD, or IPAD, manufactured by Apple Inc. of Cupertino, California, USA). In such an implementation, the user may control the tinting level via input to the portable device, which is then received by the wall device through the docking interface and subsequently transmitted to the MC 308, NC 306, or WC 304. In such an implementation, the portable device may include an application for communicating with the API presented by the wall device.

[0088] For example, a wall device may send a request for a tint state change to the MC 308. In some implementations, the MC 308 may first determine whether to grant the request (e.g., based on power considerations or based on whether the user has appropriate authorization / permission). The MC 308 may then calculate, determine, select, or otherwise generate a tint value and transmit the tint value in a primary tint command to cause a tint state transition in an adjacent IGU 302. In some such implementations, each wall device may be connected to the MC 308 via one or more wired links (e.g., via communication lines such as CAN or Ethernet compatible lines or via power lines using power line communication technology). In some other implementations, each wall device may be connected to the MC 308 via one or more wireless links. In some other implementations, the wall device may be connected (via one or more wired or wireless connections) to an externally facing network 310 (e.g., a customer-facing network), which then communicates with the MC 308 via a link 318. The wall device may be used as a cellular signal repeater alone or in conjunction with an antenna-configured electrochromic window.

[0089] In some implementations, the MC 308 can identify the IGU 302 associated with the wall device based on previously programmed or discovered information associating the wall device with the IGU 302. In some implementations, a control algorithm or rule set stored in and executed by the MC 308 can dictate that one or more control signals from the wall device take precedence over shading values ​​previously generated by the MC 308. In some other situations, such as during times of high demand (e.g., high power demand), a control algorithm or rule set stored in and executed by the MC 308 can dictate that a shading value previously generated by the MC 308 takes precedence over any control signal received from the wall device.

[0090] In some other implementations or instances, based on receiving a shading state change request or control signal from a wall device, the MC 308 may use information about a combination of known parameters to generate a shading value that provides a typical user desired lighting condition, while also taking into account power considerations in other cases. In some other implementations, the MC 308 may generate a shading value based on preset preferences defined by or for a particular user who requested a shading state change via the wall device. For example, the user may be required to enter a password into the wall device or use a security token or secure transaction bag such as an IBUTTON or other single-wire device to access the wall device. In such a case, the MC 308 may determine the identity of the user based on the password, security token, or secure transaction bag, retrieve the user's preset preferences, and use the preset preferences alone or in combination with other parameters (such as power considerations or information from various sensors) to calculate, determine, select, or otherwise generate a shading value for the respective IGU 302.

[0091] In some other implementations, the wall device may send a shading state change request to the appropriate NC 306, which then transmits the request or a communication based on the request to the MC 308. For example, each wall device may be connected to a corresponding NC 306 via one or more wired links (such as the links just described for the MC 308) or via a wireless link (such as the links described below). In some other implementations, the wall device may send a request to the appropriate NC 306, which then itself determines whether to override a primary shading command previously received from the MC 308 or a primary shading command or a secondary shading command previously generated by the NC 306 (as described below, the NC 306 may generate a shading command in some implementations without first receiving a shading command from the MC 308). In some other implementations, the wall device may transmit the request or control signal directly to the WC 304 that controls the adjacent IGU 302. For example, each wall device may be connected to a corresponding WC 304 via one or more wired links (such as the links just described with respect to MC 308) or via wireless links (such as the links described below with reference to WC 600 of FIG. 6).

[0092] In some specific implementations, it is the NC 306 that determines whether a control signal from a wall device should take precedence over a shading value previously generated by the NC 306. As described above, in some implementations, the wall device may communicate directly with the NC 306. However, in some other implementations, the wall device may transmit the request directly to the MC 308 or directly to the WC 304, which then transmits the request to the NC 306. In other implementations, the wall device may transmit the request to a customer-facing network (such as a network managed by a building owner or operator), which then passes the request (or a request based thereon) to the NC 306 directly or indirectly through the MC 308. In some implementations, a control algorithm or rule set stored in and executed by the NC 306 may dictate that one or more control signals from a wall device take precedence over a shading value previously generated by the NC 306. In some other situations, such as times of high demand (e.g., high power demand), a control algorithm or rule set stored in and executed by NC 306 may dictate that a shading value previously generated by NC 306 take precedence over any control signal received from a wall device.

[0093] As described above with reference to MC 308, in some other implementations, based on receiving a shading state change request or control signal from a wall device, NC 306 can use information about a combination of known parameters to generate a shading value that provides a typical user desired lighting condition, while also taking into account power considerations in other cases. In some other implementations, NC 306 can generate a shading value based on preset preferences defined by or for a specific user who requested a shading state change via the wall device. As described above with reference to MC 308, the user may be required to enter a password into the wall device or use a security token or secure transaction bag such as IBUTTON or other single-wire device to access the wall device. In such a case, NC 306 can communicate with MC 308 to determine the identity of the user based on the password, security token or secure transaction bag, retrieve the user's preset preferences, and use the preset preferences alone or in combination with other parameters (such as power considerations or information from various sensors) to calculate, determine, select or otherwise generate a shading value for the respective IGU 302.

[0094] In some implementations, the MC 308 is coupled to an external database (or "data store" or "data warehouse") 320. In some implementations, the database 320 may be a local database coupled to the MC 308 via a wired hardware link 322. In some other implementations, the database 320 may be a remote database or a cloud-based database accessible by the MC 308 via an internal private network or an external-facing network 310. In some implementations, other computing devices, systems, or servers may also access, for example, via the external-facing network 310 to read the data stored in the database 320. Additionally, in some implementations, one or more control applications or third-party applications may also access via the external-facing network 310 to read the data stored in the database. In some cases, the MC 308 stores a record of all shading commands including shading values ​​issued by the MC 308 in the database 320. The MC 308 may also collect state and sensor data and store it in the database 320. In such a case, the WC 304 may collect sensor data and status data from the IGU 302 and transmit the sensor data and status data to the respective NC 306 via link 314 for communication with the MC 308 via link 316. In addition or alternatively, the NC 306 or MC 308 itself may also be connected to various sensors within the building, such as light sensors, temperature sensors, or occupancy sensors, as well as light sensors or temperature sensors located on, around, or outside the building (e.g., located on the roof of the building). In some implementations, the NC 306 or WC 304 may also transmit the status or sensor data directly to the database 320 for storage.

[0095] Integration with other systems or services

[0096] In some implementations, the network system 300 can also be designed to be used in conjunction with modern heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, indoor lighting systems, security systems or power systems as an integrated and effective energy control system for the entire building or campus with buildings. Some implementations of the network system 300 are suitable for integration with a building management system (BMS) 324. Broadly speaking, a BMS is a computer-based control system that can be installed in a building to monitor and control the building's electromechanical equipment, such as an HVAC system (including a furnace or other heater, air conditioner, blower and vent), a lighting system, a power system, an elevator, a fire protection system, and a security system. The BMS may include hardware and associated firmware and software for maintaining conditions in a building according to preferences set by an occupant or building manager or other manager. The software may be based on, for example, an Internet protocol or an open standard. The BMS is typically used in large buildings, where it is used to control the environment within the building. For example, the BMS can control lighting, temperature, carbon dioxide levels, and humidity within the building. In order to control the building environment, the BMS can turn on and off various electromechanical devices according to rules or in response to conditions. Such rules and conditions may be selected or specified by, for example, a building manager or administrator. One function of a BMS may be to maintain a comfortable environment for the building's occupants while minimizing heating and cooling energy losses and costs. In some implementations, a BMS may be configured not only to monitor and control, but also to optimize synergies between various systems, for example to save energy and reduce building operating costs.

[0097] Additionally or alternatively, some implementations of the network system 300 are suitable for integration with smart thermostat services, alarm services (e.g., fire detection), security services, or other device automation services. An example of a home automation service is Made by Nest Labs in Palo Alto, California, USA ( (a registered trademark of Google Inc., Mountain View, California, USA). As used herein, references to a BMS may also include or be replaced with such other automated services in some implementations.

[0098] In some implementations, the MC 308 and a separate automation service (such as the BMS 324) can communicate via an application programming interface (API). For example, the API can be executed with a master controller application (or platform) within the MC 308, or with a building management application (or platform) within the BMS 324. The MC 308 and the BMS 324 can communicate via one or more wired links 326 or via an externally facing network 310. In some cases, the BMS 324 can transmit instructions for controlling the IGU 302 to the MC 308, which then generates and sends primary shading commands to the appropriate NC 306. In some implementations, the NC 306 or the WC 304 can also communicate directly with the BMS 324 (whether wirelessly via a wired / hardware link or via a wireless data link). In some implementations, the BMS 324 can also receive data collected by one or more of the MC 308, the NC 306, and the WC 304, such as sensor data, status data, and associated timestamp data. For example, MC 308 may publish such data via network 310 . In some other implementations where such data is stored in database 320 , BMS 324 may access some or all of the data stored in database 320 .

[0099] Window Controller

[0100] Controllers for controlling windows are described in various patents and applications of View, Inc. Examples of such applications include U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 248,181 filed on October 29, 2015, U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 085,179 filed on November 24, 2014, U.S. Patent Application No. 13 / 449,248 filed on April 17, 2012, and U.S. Patent Application No. 13 / 449,251 filed on April 17, 2012, the entire contents of each of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0101] Figure 1DAn exemplary window controller 199 is depicted that may include logic and other features for controlling an antenna (e.g., transmitting and / or receiving electromagnetic radiation signals to or from the antenna). The controller 199 includes a power converter that is configured to convert a low voltage into power requirements for (1) the EC device of the EC sheet of the IGU and / or (2) the window antenna. This power is typically fed to the EC device through a driver circuit (power driver). In one embodiment, the controller 199 has redundant power drivers so that in the event of a failure, there is a backup and the controller does not need to be replaced or repaired. Transceiver logic, which may include a power driver for the window antenna, may be included in the controller 199. Although not explicitly shown, one of the depicted power drivers can be configured to drive the window antenna electrode to transmit a specified signal.

[0102] The controller 199 also includes a Figure 1D The "master controller" in the figure) and the communication circuitry that receives and sends commands from the remote controller (depicted in Figure 1D , labeled "communication" in the figure). The communication circuit is also used to receive and send inputs to and from a local logic device (e.g., a microcontroller). In one embodiment, power lines are also used to (for example) send and receive communications via a protocol (such as Ethernet). The microcontroller includes logic for controlling at least one EC sheet based on inputs received, for example, from one or more sensors and / or a user. In this example, sensors 1 to 3 are located, for example, outside the controller 199, such as in or near a window frame. Alternatively, the sensor (if present) is located remotely, such as on the roof of a building. In one embodiment, the controller has at least one or more internal sensors. For example, the controller 199 may also or alternatively have "onboard" sensors 4 and 5. In one embodiment, the controller uses an EC device as a sensor, such as by using current-voltage (I / V) data obtained by sending one or more electrical pulses through the EC device and analyzing the feedback. This type of sensing functionality is described in U.S. patent application serial number 13 / 049,756, named Brown et al. as inventors, and entitled "Multipurpose Controller for Multistate Windows," which is incorporated herein by reference for all purposes. The window assembly may also include PV cells, and the controller may use the PV cells not only to generate power, but also as a photoelectric sensor.The microcontroller may also have logic for controlling the functions of the window antenna.

[0103] In one embodiment, the controller includes a chip, a card or a board, which includes appropriate logic, which is programmed and / or hard-coded to perform one or more control functions. The power and communication functions of the controller 199 can be combined in a single chip such as a programmable logic device (PLD) chip, a field programmable gate array (FPGA) or a similar device. These integrated circuits can combine logic functions, control functions and power functions in a single programmable chip. In one embodiment, where the EC window (or IGU) has two EC panes, the logic is configured to independently control each of the two EC panes. The logic can also control the transmission and / or reception of one or more antennas set on the IGU. In one embodiment, the functions of each of the two EC panes and the optional window antenna are controlled in a coordinated manner, that is, each device is controlled to complement another. For example, the desired level of light transmission, thermal insulation effect, antenna signal transmission and / or other properties are controlled by a combination of states for each of the individual devices and / or antennas. For example, an EC device can have a colored state, and another EC device can be used for resistive heating, for example, via a transparent electrode of the device. In another example, the colored states of the two EC devices are controlled so that the combined transmittance is the desired result.

[0104] The controller 199 may also have wireless functions, such as control functions and power supply functions. For example, wireless control such as RF and / or IR and wireless communications such as Bluetooth, WiFi, Zigbee, EnOcean, etc. may be used to send instructions to the microcontroller and for the microcontroller to send data to (for example) other window controllers and / or building management systems (BMS). A window antenna may be used to send and / or receive control communications and / or power. Various wireless protocols may be used appropriately. The best wireless protocol may depend on how the window is configured to receive power. For example, if the window is self-powered by generating relatively less power, a communication protocol that uses relatively less power may be used. Similarly, if the window is permanently wired, such as a 24V power supply, there is less concern about saving power, and a wireless protocol that requires relatively more power may be used. Zigbee is an example of a protocol that uses relatively more power. WiFi and Bluetooth low energy are examples of protocols that use relatively less power. Protocols that use relatively less power may also be beneficial when the window is intermittently powered.

[0105] Wireless communication can be used in a window controller to perform at least one of the following operations: programming and / or operating the EC window and optionally the window antenna; collecting data from the EC window from sensors; and using the EC window as a relay point for wireless communication. The data collected from the EC window can also include count data, such as the number of times the EC device has been activated (cycled), the efficiency of the EC device over time, etc. Each of these wireless communication features is described in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 13 / 049,756, naming Brown et al. as inventors, and entitled "Multipurpose Controller for Multistate Windows", previously referenced.

[0106] In certain embodiments, light is used to communicate with and / or power a window / antenna controller. That is, light generated at a distance by, for example, a diode laser transmits power and / or control signals to a window controller through an appropriate light emitting medium such as a fiber optic cable or free space. Examples of photon emission methods suitable for window controllers are described in PCT Application No. PCT / US13 / 56506, filed on August 23, 2013 and entitled "PHOTONIC-POWERED EC DEVICES," the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. In a particular embodiment, power is provided by a photonic method, and communication is provided by one or more window antennas patterned onto a sheet of an electrochromic window or associated IGU component. In another embodiment, power is provided by a photonic method, and communication is provided by Wi-Fi or another wireless communication method using an antenna.

[0107] Back to Figure 1D In an embodiment of the present invention, the controller 199 may also include an RFID tag and / or a memory such as a solid-state serial memory (e.g., I2C or SPI), which may optionally be a programmable memory. Radio frequency identification (RFID) involves an interrogator (or reader) and a tag (or label). An RFID tag uses communication via electromagnetic waves to exchange data between a terminal and an object (e.g., for the purpose of identifying and tracking the object). Some RFID tags can be read from several meters away from the reader and beyond the reader's line of sight.

[0108] Most RFID tags contain at least two parts. One part is an integrated circuit used to store and process information, modulate and demodulate radio frequency (RF) signals, and other specialized functions. The other part is an antenna used to receive and transmit signals.

[0109] There are three types of RFID tags: passive RFID tags, which have no power source and require an external electromagnetic field to initiate signal transmission; active RFID tags, which contain a battery and can transmit a signal once a reader has been successfully identified; and battery-assisted passive (BAP) RFID tags, which require an external source to wake up but have significantly higher forward link capabilities providing a greater range.

[0110] In one embodiment, the RFID tag or other memory is programmed with at least one of the following types of data: warranty information; installation information (e.g., absolute and relative position and orientation of the window); supplier information; batch / inventory information; EC device / IGU characteristics; antenna characteristics (e.g., number of antennas on the IGU, antenna type (monopole, stripline, patch, dipole, fractal, etc.), frequency range, radiation pattern (omnidirectional, semi-cylindrical beam, etc.), and antenna size); EC device cycle information; and customer information. Examples of EC device characteristics and IGU characteristics include, for example, window voltage (V W ), window current (I W ), EC coating temperature (T EC ), glass visible transmittance (%T vis ), % tinting command (external analog input from the BMS), digital input status, and controller status. Each of these represents upstream information that can be provided from the controller to the BMS or window management system or other building equipment. Window voltage, window current, window temperature, and / or visible transmittance level can be detected directly by sensors on the window. A % tinting command can be provided to the BMS or other building equipment, indicating that the controller has actually taken action to implement a tinting change that may have been requested by the building equipment. This can be important because other building systems such as HVAC systems may not recognize that tinting action is being taken because it may take several minutes (e.g., 10 minutes) for the window to change state after the tinting action begins. Therefore, the HVAC action can be postponed for an appropriate period of time to ensure that the tinting action has sufficient time to affect the building environment. Digital input status information can tell the BMS or other system that manual action has been taken related to the smart window / antenna. Finally, the controller status can tell the BMS or other system whether the controller in question is operational or has some other status related to its overall functionality.

[0111] Examples of downstream data from a BMS or other building system that may be provided to a controller include window drive configuration parameters, zone membership (e.g., what zone within the building is this controller part of), % tint value, digital output state, and digital control (tint, bleach, auto, restart, etc.). Window drive parameters may define a control sequence (effectively, an algorithm) for changing the state of a window. Examples of window drive configuration parameters include bleach tint transition slope, bleach tint transition voltage, initial tint slope, initial tint voltage, initial tint current limit, tint hold voltage, tint hold current limit, tint bleach transition slope, tint bleach transition voltage, initial bleach slope, initial bleach voltage, initial bleach current limit, bleach hold voltage, bleach hold current limit. Examples of the application of such window drive parameters are given in U.S. patent application serial number 13 / 049,623, filed on March 16, 2011, and entitled “Controlling Transitions In Optically Switchable Devices,” and U.S. patent application serial number 13 / 449,251, filed on April 17, 2012, and entitled “Controller for Optically-Switchable Windows,” the entire contents of both of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0112] As described above, the window controller may include logic (e.g., hardware and / or software) for controlling the window antennas. The logic may include one or more transceivers for controlling the one or more window antennas, which may be located on one or more windows. For window antennas used in relatively low power applications such as Bluetooth (or Bluetooth Low Energy), the transceiver may be co-located with the window controller, sometimes in the same housing such as a FIG. 11A to FIG. 11C For such applications, particularly where the antenna communication consumes only low or medium bandwidth, the antenna transceiver can communicate via a window network such as one of those described above. Of course, even for low power applications such as Bluetooth, the antenna logic need not be located on the window controller. Additionally, a parallel network can be used to communicate with the window antenna.

[0113] For other applications such as Wi-Fi services (e.g., Wi-Fi hotspots), the antenna control logic may also be deployed in the window controller housing. If the antenna application consumes a relatively small amount of bandwidth, a window network may be used to communicate with the antenna controller. For example, the CAN bus of the window network may be used to interface with the antenna transceiver. In other cases, such as where the antenna application consumes more bandwidth than the window network can accommodate, a separate network may be arranged in the building for the antenna application. In these cases and where the antenna control logic is disposed in the window controller, the controller may include a network adapter such as an RJ45 jack (connector) to connect the antenna transceiver to the antenna network.

[0114] In antenna applications that require relatively high power, high bandwidth and / or control by telecommunications operators (e.g., AT&T, Verizon, Sprint, and T-Mobile), the antenna control logic and network can be provided completely independent of the window control system (window network and controller). Typically, when the antenna provides services to a telecommunications operator, the operator requires the network and transceiver to be its own. Such services include, for example, cellular repeaters. For example, a window antenna can be deployed in a cellular repeater such as a local base station. In such a case, the window antenna transceiver does not need to be co-located with the local window controller. However, it is typically desirable to provide the antenna control logic near the window antenna, for example within approximately 30 feet.

[0115] IGU structure, generally speaking

[0116] In the description that follows, each electrochromic window 202 will be referred to as an "integrated glass unit (IGU)" 202, also referred to as an "insulated glass unit (IGU)." It is assumed that this convention exists because it is common and it may be desirable for the IGU to serve as the basic construction for holding electrochromic panes or sheets. In addition, IGUs, particularly those having double-pane or triple-pane window configurations, have excellent thermal insulation properties that are superior to single-pane configurations. However, this convention is merely for convenience and is not limiting. In fact, as described below, in some implementations, the basic unit of an electrochromic window can be considered to include a pane or substrate of transparent material on which an electrochromic coating, stack, or device is formed and coupled with associated electrical connections to drive the electrochromic device. Electrochromic IGUs are described in various references, including: U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 196,895, filed on March 4, 2014; U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 085,179, filed on November 26, 2014; and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 194,107, filed on July 17, 2015, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Of course, the antenna structures and functions disclosed herein are not limited to IGUs, and in some cases can be extended to any other window structure, including a single electrochromic sheet that is not part of an IGU or similar structure. Unless otherwise stated, the description of IGU embodiments can be extended to the context of non-IGUs. Even some embodiments requiring two or more sheets can be implemented in the context of non-IGUs; for example, embodiments using two parallel sheets that are not part of an IGU, and embodiments using electrochromic sheets and parallel structures that do not obscure most or any visible area of ​​the electrochromic sheets.

[0117] Antennas in IGUs

[0118] Various implementations generally relate to an electrochromic IGU including one or more antennas. Specific implementations of the subject matter described in the present disclosure may be implemented to achieve one or more of the following potential advantages. Some implementations relate to an IGU including both an electrochromic device (or other optically switchable device) and one or more antennas. In some implementations, the various antenna structures described herein may be formed on the electrochromic device itself, formed below the electrochromic device itself, formed in the electrochromic device itself, or otherwise integrated with the electrochromic device itself. In some other implementations, various antenna structures may be formed on the same pane as the electrochromic device, but formed on a surface opposite to the surface on which the electrochromic device is formed. In some other implementations, various antenna structures may be formed on a pane different from the electrochromic device, such as in an IGU including two or more panes. In some cases, one or more antennas or antenna components (e.g., a ground plane) are formed on a structure or feature that is not itself a part of the window sheet. For example, the antenna or antenna component can be set on an IGU spacer, a window controller, a network controller, a master controller, an electrical connector such as a connector between a window controller and an electrochromic device, a window frame element, a crossbar, a mullion, etc.

[0119] The following terminology is used throughout the specification to present various aspects of the window antenna.

[0120] Antenna components

[0121] The antenna has an associated transmitter and / or receiver, sometimes combined into a "transceiver," for providing electrical signals to the antenna or receiving them from the antenna. The transmitter and receiver are typically implemented as circuits on a circuit board or integrated circuit. In some embodiments, the transmitter and / or receiver are deployed in a window controller or other control element of the optically switchable window network.

[0122] The antenna has at least two antenna electrodes, at least one of which is referred to herein as an antenna structure, which can be used in one or both of two roles: transmitting (it receives electrical signals from a transmitting circuit and radiates electromagnetic signals into the surrounding space) and receiving (it receives electromagnetic signals from the surrounding space and forwards an electrical representation of the signal to a receiving circuit).

[0123] The second electrode is either grounded or powered. In an antenna where both electrodes are powered, they can receive complementary signals. This is usually the case with dipole antennas. When the second electrode is grounded, it can be implemented as a ground plane.

[0124] The ground plane is usually located near the antenna structure electrode and blocks the antenna structure from emitting radiation beyond the position of the ground plane and / or prevents the antenna structure from receiving radiation toward the antenna structure from the direction of the ground plane. Of course, the antenna structure and the ground plane cannot contact each other. In many designs, they are separated by dielectric layers such as window sheets or other insulating structures that may be solid, liquid or gas. In some embodiments, they are separated by free space (for example, the inside of an IGU). In various embodiments, the ground plane is implemented as a layer or partial layer on a sheet such as an electrochromic sheet or another sheet (the other sheet is a part of an IGU with an electrochromic sheet). When implemented on a sheet, the ground plane can be set as a layer on a large area of ​​the sheet or on one or more edges of the sheet. In some cases, the ground plane is implemented on a non-sheet structure associated with an electrochromic sheet or IGU. Examples of such non-window structures include window controllers, IGU spacers, and frames or structural members such as vertical frames and horizontal bars.

[0125] Each electrode is connected to a terminal of a transmitter or a receiver. All connections are made through interconnecting lines or transmission lines (the terms are used interchangeably herein).

[0126] Passive antenna elements are sometimes used with a main antenna structure and are used to tune the radiation distribution emitted by (or received by) the antenna structure. Passive antenna elements are not electrically connected to the antenna circuit. They are used in some well-known antenna structures as Yagi antennas, which can be arranged on a window structure in a manner similar to active antenna elements (e.g., antenna structure and ground plane), except that they are not electrically connected to the antenna circuit.

[0127] It is now apparent that the IGU may include one or more antennas configured to broadcast (or more generally, transmit) radio frequency (RF) signals into an indoor environment such as a building or a room within a building. In some implementations, the IGU may include one or more antennas configured to receive RF signals from an outdoor environment such as from outside or from the outside of another building or a room within a building. In some implementations, the IGU may include one or more antennas configured to broadcast RF signals out to an outdoor environment such as the outside of a building or a room within a building. In some implementations, the IGU may include one or more antennas configured to receive RF signals from an indoor environment such as from the inside of a building or a room within a building. In addition, in some implementations, the IGU may include the function of broadcasting RF signals to an indoor environment and an outdoor environment or receiving RF signals from an indoor environment and an outdoor environment. In addition, in some implementations, the IGU may include a function for preventing RF signals from passing through the IGU from one side of the IGU and transmitting to the opposite side of the IGU.

[0128] Electrochromic IGU and electrochromic device

[0129] FIG. 2A to FIG. 2J A cross-sectional view of an example electrochromic window structure 202 with an integrated antenna capable of transmitting signals to or receiving signals from an indoor environment according to some implementations is shown. These examples present a small subset of available electrochromic IGUs and electrochromic sheet structures within the scope of the present disclosure and should not be considered limiting in any way. Each of the exemplary electrochromic window structures 202 shown and described with respect to these and the following figures can be configured as an IGU and will be referred to as IGU 202 hereinafter. Figure 2A More specifically, an exemplary implementation of an IGU 202 is shown that includes a first pane (also referred to herein as a "sheet") 204 having a first surface S1 and a second surface S2. In some implementations, the first surface S1 of the first pane 204 faces an outdoor environment, such as the outdoors or an exterior environment. The IGU 202 also includes a second pane 206 having a first surface S3 and a second surface S4. In some implementations, the second surface S4 of the second pane 206 faces an indoor environment, such as an interior environment of a residence, building, or vehicle, or a room or compartment within a residence, building, or vehicle.

[0130] In some implementations, each of the first pane 204 and the second pane 206 is transparent or translucent to at least light in the visible spectrum. For example, each of the panes 204 and 206 can be made of a glass material, and in particular, architectural glass or other shatterproof glass material such as silicon oxide (SO x ) glass material. As a more specific example, each of the first pane 204 and the second pane 206 can be a soda-lime glass substrate or a float glass substrate. Such a glass substrate can be composed of, for example, about 75% silicon dioxide (SiO2) as well as Na2O, CaO and several minor additives. However, each of the first pane 204 and the second pane 206 can be formed of any material having suitable optical, electrical, thermal and mechanical properties. For example, other suitable substrates that can be used as one or both of the first pane 204 and the second pane 206 can include other glass materials as well as plastic materials, semi-plastic materials and thermoplastic materials (e.g., poly(methyl methacrylate), polystyrene, polycarbonate, allyl diglycol carbonate, SAN (styrene acrylonitrile copolymer), poly(4-methyl-1-pentene), polyester, polyamide) or mirror materials. In some implementations, each of the first pane 204 and the second pane 206 can be strengthened, for example, by tempering, heating or chemical strengthening.

[0131] In general, each of the first pane 204 and the second pane 206 and the IGU 202 are rectangular solids in general. However, in some other implementations, other shapes (e.g., circular, elliptical, triangular, curved, convex, concave) are possible and may be desired. In some specific implementations, the length "L" of each of the first pane 204 and the second pane 206 can be in the range of about 20 inches (in.) to about 10 feet (ft.), the width "W" of each of the first pane 204 and the second pane 206 can be in the range of about 20 inches to about 10 feet, and the thickness "T" of each of the first pane 204 and the second pane 206 can be in the range of about 1 millimeter (mm) to about 10 mm (although other lengths, widths or thicknesses, whether smaller or larger, are possible and may be required based on the needs of a particular user, administrator, manager, builder, architect or owner). In addition, although the IGU 202 includes two panes (204 and 206), in some other implementations, the IGU may include three or more panes. Furthermore, in some implementations, one or more of the panes may themselves be a laminate structure having two, three, or more layers or sub-panes.

[0132] The first pane 204 and the second pane 206 are spaced apart from each other by a spacer 218 to form an interior volume 208. In some implementations, the interior volume is filled with argon (Ar), however in some other implementations, the interior volume 208 may be filled with another gas such as another inert gas (e.g., krypton (Kr) or xenon (Xn)), another (non-inert) gas, or a gas mixture (e.g., air). Filling the interior volume 208 with a gas such as Ar, Kr, or Xn can reduce conductive heat transfer through the IGU 202 due to the low thermal conductivity of these gases, and improve sound insulation due to their increased atomic weight. In some other implementations, the interior volume 208 can be evacuated of air or other gas. The spacer 218 generally determines the thickness of the interior volume 208; that is, the spacing between the first pane 204 and the second pane 206. In some implementations, the spacing "C" between the first pane 204 and the second pane 206 is in the range of about 6 mm to about 30 mm. The width "D" of the spacer 218 may be in the range of about 5 mm to about 15 mm (although other widths are possible and may be desirable).

[0133] Although not shown in the cross-sectional view, the spacer 218 can be formed around all sides of the IGU 202 (e.g., the top, bottom, left side, and right side of the IGU 202). For example, the spacer 218 can be formed of a foam or plastic material. However, in some other embodiments such as Figure 5BIn the example IGU shown, the spacer may be formed of a metal or other conductive material such as a metal tube structure. The first primary seal 220 adheres and hermetically seals each of the spacers 218 and the second surface S2 of the first pane 204. The second primary seal 222 adheres and hermetically seals each of the spacers 218 and the first surface S3 of the second pane 206. In some implementations, each of the primary seals 220 and 222 may be formed of an adhesive sealant such as polyisobutylene (PIB). In some implementations, the IGU 202 also includes a secondary seal 224 that hermetically seals the border around the entire IGU 204 outside the spacer 218. To this end, the spacer 218 may be inserted from the edge of the first pane 204 and the second pane 206 by a distance "E". The distance "E" may be in the range of about 4 mm to about 8 mm (although other distances are possible and may be desired). In some implementations, the secondary seal 224 may be formed of an adhesive sealant such as a polymer material that is water-resistant and adds structural support to the assembly.

[0134] exist Figure 2A In the illustrated implementation, an electrochromic (EC) device (ECD) 210 is formed on the second surface S2 of the first pane 204. As described below, in some other implementations, the ECD 210 may be formed on another suitable surface, such as the first surface S1 of the first pane, the first surface S3 of the second pane 206, or the second surface S4 of the second pane 206. Examples of electrochromic devices are set forth, for example, in U.S. Patent No. 8,243,357 filed on May 11, 2011, U.S. Patent No. 8,764,951 filed on June 11, 2010, and U.S. Patent No. 9,007,674 filed on February 8, 2013, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Figure 2A In the embodiment, the ECD 210 includes an EC stack 212, which itself includes multiple layers. For example, the EC stack 212 may include an electrochromic layer, an ion conductive layer, and a counter electrode layer. In some implementations, the electrochromic layer is formed by an inorganic solid material. The electrochromic layer may include or be formed by one or more of many electrochromic materials (including electrochemical cathode materials or electrochemical anode materials). For example, metal oxides suitable for use as electrochromic layers may include tungsten oxide (WO3), molybdenum oxide (MoO3), niobium oxide (Nb2O5), titanium oxide (TiO2), copper oxide (CuO), iridium oxide (Ir2O3), chromium oxide (Cr2O3), manganese oxide (Mn2O3), vanadium oxide (V2O5), nickel oxide (Ni2O3) and cobalt oxide (Co2O3) and other materials. In some implementations, the electrochromic layer may have a thickness ranging from about 0.05 μm to about 1 μm.

[0135] In some implementations, the counter electrode layer is formed of an inorganic solid material. The counter electrode layer can generally include one or more of many materials or material layers that can be used as ion reservoirs when the EC device 210 is, for example, in a transparent state. For example, suitable materials for the counter electrode layer may include nickel oxide (NiO), nickel tungsten oxide (NiWO), nickel vanadium oxide, nickel chromium oxide, nickel aluminum oxide, nickel manganese oxide, nickel magnesium oxide, chromium oxide (Cr2O3), manganese oxide (MnO2) and Prussian blue. In some implementations, the counter electrode layer is a second electrochromic layer having an opposite polarity to the first electrochromic layer described above. For example, when the first electrochromic layer is formed of an electrochemical cathode material, the counter electrode layer can be formed of an electrochemical anode material. In some implementations, the counter electrode layer can have a thickness ranging from about 0.05 μm to about 1 μm.

[0136] In some embodiments, the ion-conducting layer serves as a medium through which ions are transported (e.g., in the form of an electrolyte) when the EC stack 212 transitions between optical states. In some embodiments, the ion-conducting layer is highly conductive to the relevant ions of the electrochromic layer and the counter electrode layer, but also has a sufficiently low electronic conductivity so that negligible electron transfer occurs during normal operation. A thin ion-conducting layer with high ionic conductivity enables fast ion conduction and therefore fast switching of the high-performance EC device 210. In some embodiments, the ion-conducting layer can have a thickness ranging from about 0.01 μm to about 1 μm. In some embodiments, the ion-conducting layer is also an inorganic solid. For example, the ion-conducting layer can be formed of one or more silicates, silicon oxides (including silicon aluminum oxides), tungsten oxides (including lithium tungstate), tantalum oxides, niobium oxides, and borates. These materials can also be doped with different dopants, including lithium; for example, lithium-doped silicon oxides, including lithium silicon aluminum oxides.

[0137] In some other implementations, the electrochromic layer and the counter electrode layer are formed in close proximity to each other, sometimes in direct contact, without an ion-conducting layer in between. For example, in some implementations, the interface region between the electrochromic layer and the counter electrode layer can be used instead of incorporating different ion-conducting layers. Another description of suitable devices is found in U.S. Patent No. 8,300,298, issued on October 30, 2012, and U.S. Patent Application No. 13 / 462,725, filed on May 2, 2012, the entire contents of each of which are incorporated herein by reference. In some implementations, the EC stack 212 may also include one or more additional layers, such as one or more passive layers. For example, passive layers may be used to improve certain optical properties, to provide moisture resistance or to provide scratch resistance. In some implementations, the first TCO layer 214 and the second TCO layer 216 may be treated with an anti-reflective or protective oxide or nitride layer. In addition, other passive layers may also be used to hermetically seal the EC stack 212.

[0138] In some implementations, the selection of suitable electrochromic and counter electrode materials dictates the associated optical transitions. During operation, in response to a voltage applied across the thickness of the electrochromic layer, the electrochromic layer transfers or exchanges ions to and from the counter electrode layer, causing the desired optical transition to occur in the electrochromic layer and, in some implementations, also causing an optical transition to occur in the counter electrode layer. In a more specific example, in response to the application of a suitable electrical potential across the thickness of EC stack 212, the counter electrode layer transfers all or a portion of the ions it holds to the electrochromic layer, causing an optical transition to occur in the electrochromic layer. In some such implementations, for example, when the counter electrode layer is formed of NiWO, the counter electrode layer also undergoes an optical transition as it loses the ions that it has transferred to the electrochromic layer. When charge is removed from the counter electrode layer made of NiWO (i.e., ions are transferred from the counter electrode layer to the electrochromic layer), the counter electrode layer will transition in the opposite direction.

[0139] It is also understood that the transitions between the bleached or transparent state and the colored or opaque state are merely some examples of the many optical or electrochromic transitions that can be achieved. Such transitions include changes in reflectivity, polarization state, scattering density, etc. Unless otherwise specified herein (including the foregoing discussion), whenever reference is made to a bleach-opaque transition (or to an intermediate state therebetween), the corresponding devices or processes described include other optical state transitions, e.g., intermediate state transitions such as percent transmission (%T) to %T transitions, non-reflective to reflective transitions (or intermediate states therebetween), bleach to color transitions (or intermediate states therebetween), and color to color transitions (or intermediate states therebetween). Additionally, the term "bleach" can refer to an optically neutral state, e.g., uncolored, transparent, or translucent. Further, unless otherwise specified herein, "coloring" of an electrochromic transition is not limited to any particular wavelength or wavelength range.

[0140] Generally, the coloring or other optical transition of the electrochromic material in the electrochromic layer is caused by reversible ion insertion into the material (e.g., intercalation) and the corresponding charge-balancing electron injection. Generally, a small fraction of the ions responsible for the optical transition are irreversibly bound to the electrochromic material. The "blind charge" in the material can be compensated for using some or all of the irreversibly bound ions. In some implementations, suitable ions include lithium ions (Li+) and hydrogen ions (H+) (i.e., protons). In some other implementations, other ions may be suitable. Intercalating lithium ions, for example, into tungsten oxide (WO 3-y (0 < y ≤ ~0.3)) causes the tungsten oxide to change from a transparent state to a blue state.

[0141] In some implementations, the EC stack 212 reversibly cycles between a transparent state and an opaque or colored state. In some implementations, when the EC stack 212 is in a transparent state, a potential is applied across the EC stack 212 so that the available ions in the stack reside primarily in the counter electrode layer. When the magnitude of the potential on the EC stack 212 decreases or when the polarity of the potential is reversed, the ions are transmitted back to the electrochromic layer across the ion conducting layer, causing the electrochromic material to be converted to an opaque, colored or darker state. In some implementations, the electrochromic and counter electrode layers are complementary coloring layers. As an example of a supplementary implementation, when or after ions are transferred to the counter electrode layer, the counter electrode layer becomes brighter or transparent, and similarly, when or after ions are transferred out of the electrochromic layer, the electrochromic layer becomes brighter or transparent. On the contrary, when the polarity is switched or the potential is reduced and ions are transferred from the counter electrode layer to the electrochromic layer, both the counter electrode and the electrochromic layer become darker or colored.

[0142] In some other implementations, when the EC stack 212 is in an opaque state, an electric potential is applied to the EC stack 212 such that the available ions in the stack reside primarily in the counter electrode layer. In such implementations, when the magnitude of the electric potential across the EC stack 212 decreases or when the polarity of the electric potential is reversed, ions are transported back across the ion-conducting layer to the electrochromic layer, causing the electrochromic material to transition to a transparent or lighter state. The electrochromic layer and the ion-conducting layer can also be complementary coloring layers.

[0143] The ECD 210 also includes a first transparent conductive oxide (TCO) layer 214 adjacent to a first surface of the EC stack 212 and a second TCO layer 216 adjacent to a second surface of the EC stack 212. For example, the first TCO layer 214 can be formed on the second surface S2, the EC stack 212 can be formed on the first TCO layer 214, and the second TCO layer 216 can be formed on the EC stack 212. In some implementations, the first TCO layer 214 and the second TCO layer 216 can be formed of one or more metal oxides and metal oxides doped with one or more metals. For example, some suitable metal oxides and doped metal oxides can include indium oxide, indium tin oxide (ITO), doped indium oxide, tin oxide, doped tin oxide, fluorinated tin oxide, zinc oxide, aluminum zinc oxide, doped zinc oxide, ruthenium oxide, and doped ruthenium oxide, etc. Although these materials are referred to as TCOs herein, the term includes non-oxides as well as transparent and conductive oxides, such as certain thin metals and certain non-metallic materials such as conductive metal nitrides and composite conductors and other suitable materials. In some implementations, the first TCO layer 214 and the second TCO layer 216 are substantially transparent at least in the wavelength range in which electrochromism is exhibited by the EC stack 212. In some implementations, the first TCO layer 214 and the second TCO layer 216 can each be deposited by a physical vapor deposition (PVD) process including, for example, sputtering. In some implementations, the first TCO layer 214 and the second TCO layer 216 can each have a thickness ranging from about 0.01 micrometers (μm) to about 1 μm. The transparent conductive material generally has an electronic conductivity significantly greater than the electronic conductivity of the electrochromic material or the counter electrode material.

[0144] The first TCO layer 214 and the second TCO layer 216 are used to distribute charge on the respective first and second surfaces of the EC stack 212 to apply an electric potential (voltage) across the thickness of the EC stack 212 to modify one or more optical properties (e.g., transmittance, absorptivity, or reflectivity) of the EC stack 212 or multiple layers within the EC stack 212. It is desirable that the first TCO layer 214 and the second TCO layer 216 be used to evenly distribute the charge from the outer surface area of ​​the EC stack 212 to the inner surface area of ​​the EC stack 212, with a relatively small ohmic potential drop from the outer area to the inner area. Therefore, it is generally desirable to minimize the sheet resistance of the first TCO layer 214 and the second TCO layer 216. In other words, it is generally desirable that each of the first TCO layer 214 and the second TCO layer 216 behave as a substantially equipotential layer over all portions of the respective layers 214 and 216. In this manner, the first TCO layer 214 and the second TCO layer 216 can apply an electric potential uniformly across the thickness of the EC stack 212 to effectuate a transition of the EC stack 212 from a bleached or lighter state (e.g., a transparent, translucent, or semi-transparent state) to a colored or darker state (e.g., a tinted, less transparent, or opaque state), and vice versa.

[0145] The first busbar 226 distributes a first electrical (e.g., voltage) signal to the first TCO layer 214. The second busbar 228 distributes a second electrical (e.g., voltage) signal to the first TCO layer 214. In some other implementations, one of the first busbar 226 and the second busbar 228 can ground a respective one of the first TCO layer 214 and the second TCO layer 216. In the illustrated implementation, each of the first busbar 226 and the second busbar 228 is printed, patterned, or otherwise formed so that it is oriented along a respective length of the first pane 204 along a boundary of the EC stack 212. In some implementations, each of the first busbar 226 and the second busbar 228 is formed by depositing a conductive ink, such as silver ink, in the form of a line. In some implementations, each of the first busbar 226 and the second busbar 228 extends along the entire length (or substantially the entire length) of the first pane 204.

[0146] In the illustrated implementation, the first TCO layer 214, the EC stack 212, and the second TCO layer 216 do not extend to the absolute edges of the first pane 204. For example, in some implementations, laser edge deletion (LED) or other operations can be used to remove portions of the first TCO layer 214, the EC stack 212, and the second TCO layer 216 so that these layers are separated or inserted a distance "G" from the respective edges of the first pane 204, which can be in the range of about 8 mm to about 10 mm (although other distances are possible and may be desirable). In addition, in some implementations, edge portions of the EC stack 212 and the second TCO layer 216 along one side of the first glass 2014 are removed to enable a first bus bar 226 to be formed on the first TCO layer 214 to achieve conductive coupling between the first bus bar 226 and the first TCO layer 214. Second bus bars 228 are formed on the second TCO layer 216 to achieve conductive coupling between the second bus bar 228 and the second TCO layer 216. In some implementations, as Figure 2A As shown, the first busbar 226 and the second busbar 228 are formed in the area between the respective spacers 218 and the first pane 204. For example, each of the first busbar 226 and the second busbar 228 can be inserted from the inner edge of the respective spacer 218 by at least a distance "F", and the distance "F" can be in the range of about 2 mm to about 3 mm (although other distances are possible and may be desired). One reason for this arrangement is to hide the busbars from view. Another description of busbar positioning and LEDs can be found in U.S. Patent Application No. 61 / 923,171 filed on January 2, 2014, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0147] IGU and Exemplary Stripline Antenna on Chip

[0148] exist Figure 2AIn the illustrated implementation, the first antenna structure 230 and the second antenna structure 232 are formed within the insertion area defined by the distance G. In some implementations, each of the first antenna structure 230 and the second antenna structure 232 is configured as a stripline antenna. In some implementations, each of the first antenna structure 230 and the second antenna structure 232 is formed by depositing a conductive ink, such as silver ink, in the form of a line. In some other implementations, each of the first antenna structure 230 and the second antenna structure 232 can be formed by applying or adhering a conductive (e.g., copper) foil or using a suitable PVD or other deposition process. In some other implementations, each of the first antenna structure 230 and the second antenna structure 232 is formed by patterning the first TCO layer 214 to electrically isolate the conductive striplines. In some implementations, each of the first antenna structure 230 and the second antenna structure 232 extends along a portion of the length of the first pane 204. The length of each of the first antenna structure 230 and the second antenna structure 232 is generally specified by the wavelength of the respective signal that the antenna structure is designed to transmit or receive. For example, the length of each of the first antenna structure 230 and the second antenna structure 232 can be equal to an integer of one quarter wavelength of the associated signal. In some implementations, each of the first antenna structure 230 and the second antenna structure 232 has a width suitable for carrying a signal having a desired frequency and a thickness suitable for carrying a signal having a desired frequency. In some implementations, the width and thickness of each of the first antenna structure 230 and the second antenna structure 232 can correspond to an integer multiple of the wavelength (or a portion thereof) of the signal to be carried by the antenna structure. In embodiments where the antenna structure occupies at least a portion of the visible area of ​​the window sheet, the lines defining the antenna structure can be made sufficiently thin so that they are substantially invisible to an individual viewing through the IGU. FIG. 2A to FIG. 2J , FIG. 3A to FIG. 3J , FIG. 4A to FIG. 4B and FIG. 5A to FIG. 5B The examples in present a small subset of possible window antenna designs within the scope of the present disclosure and therefore should not be considered limiting in any way.

[0149] In some implementations, each of the first antenna structure 230 and the second antenna structure 232 can be individually addressable or independently driven, such as when each antenna is a monopole antenna. For example, each of the first antenna structure 230 and the second antenna structure 232 can be electrically connected to a corresponding window controller or another controller or device for transmitting signals to the first antenna structure 230 and the second antenna structure 232 or for receiving signals from the first antenna structure 230 and the second antenna structure 232 via a conductive bus, line, or interconnect (used interchangeably below where appropriate). In addition, in some implementations, each of the first antenna structure 230 and the second antenna structure 232 can have a different set of parameters than the other (e.g., a different length, width, or thickness according to one or more related signals to be transmitted or received). In some other implementations, the IGU 202 can include only one of the antenna structures 230 and 232 or more than two antenna structures 230 and 232. In some implementations, one of the antennas is configured to receive signals and the other is configured to transmit signals. In some implementations, the two antenna structures are driven in a complementary controlled manner, as if they were part of a dipole antenna.

[0150] In some embodiments, the ground plane and / or antenna structure are manufactured on the same surface as the electrochromic device. In one example, the combined ground plane and electrochromic device stack includes a flat, continuous ground plane near the glass substrate, an insulating layer near the ground plane, a first transparent conductive layer of the electrochromic stack above the insulator, and the remainder of the electrochromic device above the transparent conductive layer. The electrochromic device stack can be manufactured according to conventional manufacturing processes. In this approach, the lower ground plane can be a TEC (fluorinated tin oxide) layer applied by certain glass manufacturers, or it can be applied by the electrochromic device manufacturer, or it can be a combination of the two. For example, an existing TEC can be modified by a glass manufacturer to be thicker, or a combination of a TEC obtained from a manufacturer and a thin additional transparent conductor layer placed above the TEC can be included.

[0151] In some implementations, Figure 2A The IGU 202 also includes a ground plane 234 located on the first surface S1 of the first pane 204. The ground plane 234 can be used to make the antenna structures 230 and 232 directional. For example, as described above, FIG. 2A to FIG. 2JA cross-sectional view of an example IGU 202 having an integrated antenna capable of transmitting signals to or receiving signals from an indoor environment according to some implementations is shown. Thus, by forming or otherwise including a ground plane 234 between the first antenna structure 230 and the second antenna structure 232 and the outdoor environment, each of the first antenna structure 230 and the second antenna structure 232 can be directional relative to the indoor environment; that is, capable of transmitting signals to or receiving signals from only the indoor environment. If such directivity is not required or desired, the ground plane 234 is not included. In some implementations, the ground plane 234 can extend across substantially the entire surface S1 as shown. In some other implementations, the ground plane 234 can extend only along and across the area of ​​the surface S1 near the respective first antenna structure 230 and the second antenna structure 232. In some implementations, the ground plane 234 can be formed of a conductive material such as any of the above-mentioned materials (including thin film metals or metal alloys and conductive oxides). Typically, when the ground plane is located in the viewable window area of ​​the IGU, the ground plane has a light transmittance that does not significantly reduce the occupant's ability to see through the window when the window is in a transparent state.

[0152] Figure 2B A cross-sectional view of another example IGU 202 having an integrated antenna capable of transmitting signals to or receiving signals from an indoor environment according to some implementations is shown. Figure 2B The IGU 202 shown and described is similar to that of reference Figure 2A The IGU 202 is shown and described except for at least the difference that the first antenna structure 230 and the second antenna structure 232 are formed on respective edge regions of the first TCO layer 214. To electrically insulate the first antenna structure 230 and the second antenna structure 232 from the first TCO layer 214, a dielectric or other insulating material layer 236 is provided on the first TCO layer 214 below the first antenna structure 230 and the second antenna structure 232. In some embodiments, only one of the two antennas is disposed on the first TCO layer 214. For example, the antenna structure 232 can be disposed directly on the substrate 204.

[0153] Figure 2C A cross-sectional view of another example IGU 202 having an integrated antenna capable of transmitting signals to or receiving signals from an indoor environment according to some implementations is shown. Figure 2C The IGU 202 shown and described is similar to that of reference Figure 2AThe IGU 202 is shown and described except for at least the following difference, that is, the first antenna structure 230 and the second antenna structure 232 are formed on respective edge regions of the second TCO layer 216. In order to electrically insulate the first antenna structure 230 and the second antenna structure 232 from the second TCO layer 216, a dielectric or other insulating material layer 236 is provided on the second TCO layer 216 below the first antenna structure 230 and the second antenna structure 232. In some embodiments, only one of the two antennas is disposed on the second TCO layer 216. For example, the antenna structure 230 can be disposed directly on the substrate 204 or on the first TCO layer 214 (but separated therefrom by the insulating layer 236).

[0154] Figure 2D A cross-sectional view of another example IGU 202 having an integrated antenna capable of transmitting signals to or receiving signals from an indoor environment according to some implementations is shown. Figure 2D The IGU 202 shown and described is similar to that of reference Figure 2A The IGU 202 is shown and described except for at least the difference that the first antenna structure 230 and the second antenna structure 232 are formed by patterning the second TCO layer 216. For example, one or more laser scribing, laser ablation, or etching processes may be used to pattern the first antenna structure 230 and the second antenna structure 232 and to electrically insulate the first antenna structure 230 and the second antenna structure 232 from the peripheral portion of the second TCO layer 216. In the depicted embodiment, the antenna structure 230 includes two striplines.

[0155] Figure 2E A cross-sectional view of another example IGU 202 having an integrated antenna capable of transmitting signals to or receiving signals from an indoor environment according to some implementations is shown. Figure 2E The IGU 202 shown and described is similar to that of reference Figure 2C The IGU 202 is shown and described except for at least the difference that the first antenna structure 230 and the second antenna structure 232 are formed on a ground plane 234, which in turn is formed on the second TCO layer 216. To electrically insulate the ground plane 234 from the second TCO layer 216, a layer of dielectric or other insulating material 238 is provided on the second TCO layer 216 and below the ground plane 234. An insulating strip 236 separates the antenna structures 230 and 232 from the ground plane 234.

[0156] Figure 2F A cross-sectional view of another example IGU 202 having an integrated antenna capable of transmitting signals to or receiving signals from an indoor environment according to some implementations is shown. Figure 2FThe IGU 202 shown and described is similar to that of reference Figure 2E The IGU 202 is shown and described except for at least the difference that a ground plane 234 is formed between the second surface S2 of the first pane 204 and the EC device 210. To electrically insulate the ground plane 234 from the first TCO layer 214, a layer of dielectric or other insulating material 238 is first formed on the ground plane 234 prior to forming the first TCO layer 214. In the depicted embodiment, the antenna structures 230 and 232 and the insulating ribbon 236 are located on the second TCO 216. In other embodiments, one or both of the antenna structures are located on the first TCO 214.

[0157] Figure 2G A cross-sectional view of another example IGU 202 having an integrated antenna capable of transmitting signals to or receiving signals from an indoor environment according to some implementations is shown. Figure 2G The IGU 202 shown and described is similar to that of reference Figure 2A IGU 202 is shown and described except for at least the following difference, that is, first antenna structure 230 and second antenna structure 232 are formed on respective edge regions of first surface S3 of second pane 206. In some cases, the antenna structures are formed by printing a conductive material such as silver ink. In some implementations, Figure 2G The IGU 202 also includes a ground plane 234 disposed on the first antenna structure 230 and the second antenna structure 234. In order to electrically insulate the ground plane 234 from the first antenna structure 230 and the second antenna structure 232, a dielectric or other insulating material layer 236 is first formed on the first antenna structure 230 and the second antenna structure 232 before forming the ground plane 234. In some other implementations, the ground plane 234 can be disposed on the first surface S1 of the first pane 204 or on the second surface S2 of the first pane 204, below or above the EC device 210.

[0158] Figure 2H A cross-sectional view of another example IGU 202 having an integrated antenna capable of transmitting signals to or receiving signals from an indoor environment according to some implementations is shown. Figure 2H The IGU 202 shown and described is similar to that of reference Figure 2G The IGU 202 is shown and described except for at least the difference that the first antenna structure 230 and the second antenna structure 232 are patterned from a conductive oxide layer (eg, such as the same material as the first TCO layer 214 and the second TCO layer 216).

[0159] Fig.2IA cross-sectional view of another example IGU 202 having an integrated antenna capable of transmitting signals to or receiving signals from an indoor environment according to some implementations is shown. Fig.2I The IGU 202 shown and described is similar to that of reference Figure 2G IGU 202 is shown and described except for at least the following difference, that is, first antenna structure 230 and second antenna structure 232 are formed on respective edge regions of first surface S1 of first pane 204. In some cases, the antenna structure is a conductive ribbon such as a silver ink ribbon. In some implementations, Fig.2I The IGU 202 also includes a ground plane 234 disposed on the first antenna structure 230 and the second antenna structure 234. In order to electrically insulate the ground plane 234 from the first antenna structure 230 and the second antenna structure 232, a dielectric or other insulating material layer 236 is first formed on the first antenna structure 230 and the second antenna structure 232 before forming the ground plane 234.

[0160] Figure 2J A cross-sectional view of another example IGU 202 having an integrated antenna capable of transmitting signals to or receiving signals from an indoor environment according to some implementations is shown. Figure 2J The IGU 202 shown and described is similar to that of reference Fig.2I The IGU 202 is shown and described except for at least the difference that the first antenna structure 230 and the second antenna structure 232 are patterned from a conductive oxide layer (eg, such as the same material as the first TCO layer 214 and the second TCO layer 216).

[0161] Figures 3A-3J A cross-sectional view of an example IGU 202 having an integrated antenna capable of transmitting signals to or receiving signals from an outdoor environment is shown according to some implementations. Figures 2A-2J Many of the features shown and described can be applied to Figures 3A-3J but with the relative positions of the ground plane and antenna structure reversed. Figure 3A The IGU 202 shown and described is similar to that of reference Figure 2A The IGU 202 is shown and described except for at least the difference that the ground plane 234 is formed on the first surface S3 of the second pane 206. In some other implementations, the ground plane 234 can be formed on the second surface S4 of the second pane 206.

[0162] Figure 3B A cross-sectional view of another example IGU 202 having an integrated antenna capable of transmitting signals to or receiving signals from an outdoor environment is shown according to some implementations. Figure 3BThe IGU 202 shown and described is similar to that of reference Figure 3A The IGU 202 is shown and described except for at least the difference that the first antenna structure 230 and the second antenna structure 232 are formed on respective edge regions of the first TCO layer 214. In order to electrically insulate the first antenna structure 230 and the second antenna structure 232 from the first TCO layer 214, a layer 236 of dielectric or other insulating material is first formed on the first TCO layer 214 before the first antenna structure 230 and the second antenna structure 232 are formed.

[0163] Figure 3C A cross-sectional view of another example IGU 202 having an integrated antenna capable of transmitting signals to or receiving signals from an outdoor environment is shown according to some implementations. Figure 3C The IGU 202 shown and described is similar to that of reference Figure 3A The IGU 202 is shown and described except for at least the difference that the first antenna structure 230 and the second antenna structure 232 are formed on respective edge regions of the second TCO layer 216. In order to electrically insulate the first antenna structure 230 and the second antenna structure 232 from the second TCO layer 216, a layer 236 of dielectric or other insulating material is first formed on the second TCO layer 216 before the first antenna structure 230 and the second antenna structure 232 are formed.

[0164] Figure 3D A cross-sectional view of another example IGU 202 having an integrated antenna capable of transmitting signals to or receiving signals from an outdoor environment is shown according to some implementations. Figure 3D The IGU 202 shown and described is similar to that of reference Figure 3A The IGU 202 is shown and described except for at least the difference that the first antenna structure 230 and the second antenna structure 232 are formed by patterning the second TCO layer 216. For example, a laser scribing or etching process may be used to pattern the first antenna structure 230 and the second antenna structure 232 and to electrically insulate the first antenna structure 230 and the second antenna structure 232 from peripheral portions of the second TCO layer 216.

[0165] Figure 3E A cross-sectional view of another example IGU 202 having an integrated antenna capable of transmitting signals to or receiving signals from an outdoor environment is shown according to some implementations. Figure 3E The IGU 202 shown and described is similar to that of reference Figure 3CThe IGU 202 is shown and described except for at least the following difference, that is, the ground plane is formed on the first antenna structure 230 and the second antenna structure 232. In order to electrically insulate the ground plane 234 from the first antenna structure 230 and the second antenna structure 232, a dielectric or other insulating material layer 238 is first formed on the first antenna structure 230 and the second antenna structure 232 before the ground plane 234 is formed.

[0166] Figure 3F A cross-sectional view of another example IGU 202 having an integrated antenna capable of transmitting signals to or receiving signals from an outdoor environment is shown according to some implementations. Figure 3F The IGU 202 shown and described is similar to that of reference Figure 3E IGU 202 is shown and described except for at least the difference that first and second antenna structures 230 and 232, insulating layer 236, and ground plane 234 are formed on second surface S2 of first pane 204 before and before forming EC device 210.

[0167] Figure 3G A cross-sectional view of another example IGU 202 having an integrated antenna capable of transmitting signals to or receiving signals from an outdoor environment is shown according to some implementations. Figure 3G The IGU 202 shown and described is similar to that of reference Figure 3A The IGU 202 shown and described is identical to the IGU 202 except that the first antenna structure 230 and the second antenna structure 232 are formed on respective edge regions of the first surface S3 of the second pane 206. In some implementations, Figure 3G The IGU 202 also includes a ground plane 234 formed between the first antenna structure 230 and the second antenna structure 234 and the surface S3. In order to electrically insulate the ground plane 234 from the first antenna structure 230 and the second antenna structure 232, a dielectric or other insulating material layer 236 is first formed on the ground plane 234 before forming the first antenna structure 230 and the second antenna structure 232. In some other implementations, the ground plane 234 can be formed on the second surface S4 of the second pane 206.

[0168] Figure 3H A cross-sectional view of another example IGU 202 having an integrated antenna capable of transmitting signals to or receiving signals from an outdoor environment is shown according to some implementations. Figure 3H The IGU 202 shown and described is similar to that of reference Figure 3GThe IGU 202 is shown and described except for at least the difference that the first antenna structure 230 and the second antenna structure 232 are patterned from a conductive oxide layer (eg, such as the same material as the first TCO layer 214 and the second TCO layer 216).

[0169] Fig. 3I A cross-sectional view of another example IGU 202 having an integrated antenna capable of transmitting signals to or receiving signals from an outdoor environment is shown according to some implementations. Fig. 3I The IGU 202 shown and described is similar to that of reference Figure 3G The IGU 202 shown and described is identical to the IGU 202 except that the first antenna structure 230 and the second antenna structure 232 are formed on respective edge regions of the first surface S1 of the first pane 204. In some implementations, Fig.2I The IGU 202 also includes a ground plane 234 disposed on the surface S1 below the first antenna structure 230 and the second antenna structure 234. In order to electrically insulate the ground plane 234 from the first antenna structure 230 and the second antenna structure 232, a dielectric or other insulating material layer 236 is first formed on the ground plane 234 before forming the first antenna structure 230 and the second antenna structure 232.

[0170] Figure 3J A cross-sectional view of another example IGU 202 having an integrated antenna capable of transmitting signals to or receiving signals from an indoor environment according to some implementations is shown. Figure 3J The IGU 202 shown and described is similar to that of reference Fig. 3I The IGU 202 is shown and described except for at least the difference that the first antenna structure 230 and the second antenna structure 232 are patterned from a conductive oxide layer (eg, such as the same material as the first TCO layer 214 and the second TCO layer 216).

[0171] Figure 4A and Figure 4B A cross-sectional view of an example IGU 202 having an integrated antenna capable of transmitting signals to and receiving signals from an indoor environment and an outdoor environment according to some implementations is shown. In various embodiments having such functionality, at least one ground plane is disposed between one antenna structure on the indoor side of the ground plane and another antenna structure on the outdoor side of the ground plane. The antenna structure facing indoors is not blocked by another ground plane on the indoor side of the antenna structure. Similarly, the antenna structure facing outdoor is not blocked by another ground plane on the outdoor side of the antenna structure. In some implementations, multiple ground planes are disposed between the antenna structure facing indoors and the antenna structure facing outdoor.

[0172] Certain embodiments relate to a patch antenna having (i) a patch of conductive material formed on a window to form an antenna structure, and (ii) a ground plane that may be parallel or perpendicular to the patch antenna structure (or any angle therebetween). The patch antenna may be configured as a monopole antenna similar to the stripline antenna described elsewhere herein. While a stripline is typically relatively thin (in a dimension parallel to the surface on which it is formed), a patch is relatively wide, for example, having its narrowest dimension (i.e., the dimension parallel to the surface on which it is formed) of at least about 0.5 inches. In other embodiments, the narrowest dimension of the patch is at least about 1 inch, or about at least about 2 inches, or at least about 3 inches. In certain embodiments, the patch antenna structure is a continuous, unpatterned patch of conductive material having a thickness (directly perpendicular to the surface on which the antenna structure is formed) suitable for the stripline antenna structure disclosed herein. In some embodiments, the patch antenna structure is patterned; for example, some fractal antenna structures. Unless otherwise noted, any discussion of the stripline antenna structure is equally applicable to the patch antenna structure.

[0173] Ground plane and antenna structure on the same plane

[0174] FIG. 2A to FIG. 4B The embodiments show ground planes and antenna structures on different layers. This need not be the case. In some implementations, the ground plane and antenna structures occupy different areas of a single layer. For example, the TCO layer can be patterned and electrically connected so that the grounded portion of the TCO serves as the ground plane and one or more separately connected lines serve as the antenna structure. This design may be appropriate when it is inconvenient to provide a flat ground plane on an off-frame structure such as a spacer or window frame structure, for example. Depending on the relative size, position, and orientation of the ground plane and antenna structure on the layer, the radiation used for transmission or reception is allocated as understood by those skilled in the art. For example, as explained above, radiation emitted from a window antenna can be directed away from the ground plane. Fig.9D An example of a fractal patch antenna 995 and a strip ground plane 993 deployed on the same pane of a sheet is presented. Other examples use other shapes and sizes of ground planes, including rectangles covering all or a portion of one side of the sheet. Other examples use other antenna structures such as other forms of patch antennas, stripline antennas, etc.

[0175] Types of Antenna Designs for Window Antennas

[0176] Position of the antenna structure relative to the electrochromic device

[0177] Various IGU antenna designs generally fall into one or more categories. In one category, the electrochromic device itself is modified to include an antenna or a portion thereof. In such embodiments, the antenna can be fabricated in or on a transparent conductor layer of the device, such as a transparent conductor layer disposed adjacent to a glass substrate (e.g., a fluorinated tin oxide or "TEC" layer) or an upper transparent conductor layer disposed on top of an electrochromic stack opposite to the glass surface (e.g., an indium tin oxide or "ITO" layer). In an electrochromic device, each of the two transparent conductor layers is connected to its own busbar that drives the transparent conductive layer to opposite polarity during switching of the electrochromic device. When an antenna is disposed in or on one of these layers, the antenna must be electrically isolated from the surrounding portions of the conductive layer, and additional electrical connections must be provided for the antenna transmission line. For example, by laser scribing or etching, the antenna design pattern can be effectively drawn and electrically isolated from the surrounding conductive layers. In some embodiments, the busbar is segmented so that one or more segments provide power for the electrochromic device to switch, and different segments transmit or receive electrical signals to or from the antenna.

[0178] In another category, the antenna structure is manufactured in a layer of a stack that is integral with the electrochromic device, but the layer is not directly used for functions associated with the coloring or switching of the electrochromic device. In one example, a separate layer of conductive material is deposited on a substrate containing the electrochromic device stack. In some embodiments, an additional layer is deposited on one side of the substrate (glass) where the electrochromic device stack is manufactured and the formation of the layer can be integrated in the deposition of the electrochromic device stack layer. For example, on the electrochromic device (on the side away from the glass substrate), the antenna structure can be implemented as an insulating layer on the upper transparent conductor layer and a printed pattern or patterned conductive layer on the insulating layer using a pattern that defines the antenna structure. In some embodiments, a separate conductive layer dedicated to the antenna structure is provided with a substrate and does not need to be deposited separately during the manufacture of the electrochromic device. No matter how the dedicated antenna structure layer is manufactured, it will include a separate electrical connector for the antenna structure in or on the layer. The two transparent conductive layers used to drive the switching of the electrochromic device have standard busbars or other connectors for applying the polarity voltage required to drive the light switching.

[0179] In another category, a portion of one of the transparent conductive layers of the electrochromic device stack is peeled off from the underlying substrate, and then the antenna structure is formed on the exposed area (e.g., using CVD techniques, rolling mask lithography techniques, or conductive ink printing techniques). In some embodiments, the removed portion of the TCO is located at or near the edge of the electrochromic sheet.

[0180] In another category, the antenna structure is disposed on a surface of the IGU other than the surface of the IGU having the electrochromic device. Such other surface may be a surface opposite the surface of the sheet on which the electrochromic device is stacked. In some such embodiments, the electrochromic sheet includes a laminate structure that includes the antenna structure, including additional layers or panes not included in current ECD designs. In other embodiments, the antenna structure is formed on the surface of a separate sheet of the IGU.

[0181] Antenna on spacer

[0182] Figure 5A and Figure 5B A cross-sectional view of another exemplary IGU 202 with an integrated antenna according to some implementations is shown. Figure 5A In the IGU 202 shown and described, one or more first antenna structures 540 are formed on the inside surface of a first one of the spacers 218, and one or more second antenna structures 542 are formed on the inside surface of a second one of the spacers 218. The first antenna structures 540 and the second antenna structures 542 can be adhered to the spacers 218 using adhesive layers 544 and 546, respectively. For example, the first antenna structures 542 and the second antenna structures 544 can be formed of conductive foil mounted or otherwise deposited or formed on a polyester film or other adhesive tape. Figure 5B The IGU 202 shown and described is similar to that of reference Figure 5A The IGU 202 shown and described is identical except for at least the following difference, namely Figure 5B The IGU 202 includes a metal spacer 548 instead of a foam or other insulating spacer 218. In such an implementation, the spacer 548 itself can be used as a ground plane. Alternatively, if the spacer or a portion thereof is appropriately configured (size, shape, location, conductor material), the spacer can be driven as a radiating antenna electrode.

[0183] Window antenna design characterized by electrode structure and radiation properties

[0184] Exemplary Monopole Antenna

[0185] A monopole antenna has an antenna structure that is a monopole, wire, or patch, although it can include other shapes such as the triangular shape used in some fractal antennas, e.g. Fig. 8A and 8BThose shown. Typically, in a window implementation, the antenna structure is disposed on the window surface as a stripline or patch (e.g., as a thin line of TCO, copper metal, or silver ink). The second electrode is a ground plane oriented perpendicular to the axis of the line forming the antenna structure. The term "perpendicular" is intended to include orientations where the electrodes are exactly 90 degrees apart as well as orientations where the electrodes are not exactly 90 degrees apart (e.g., they are about 85 degrees to 90 degrees or about 75 degrees to 90 degrees, or about 60 degrees to 90 degrees). The ground plane is disposed outside one end of the antenna structure such that a gas (e.g., air or gas filling the interior of the IGU) or other dielectric separates one end of the antenna structure from the ground plane. When the antenna structure is disposed on a window, the ground plane can be disposed on an adjacent structure such as a window frame, a building frame member such as a vertical frame or horizontal frame, a spacer of an IGU, or a separate conductive, substantially planar structure attached to the window or any of the foregoing elements. The basic structure of a monopole antenna applied to a window antenna is in Fig.9A As shown in FIG. 9 , the basic structure includes a sheet 950 on which a strip of conductive material (antenna structure 952) is disposed, and a separate ground plane 954 oriented substantially perpendicular to the antenna structure. Fig.9D A monopole antenna is also described, this time with a fractal patch as antenna structure and with a coplanar conducting strip as ground plane.

[0186] A monopole antenna transmits (and / or receives) radiation at a single frequency or narrow frequency band. The frequency spread is chosen for the application. Generally, the narrower the spread, the more power efficient the antenna is. However, some transmission protocols such as Wi-Fi employ a spread of frequencies (e.g., 2.40 GHz to 2.49 GHz), and it may be desirable for an antenna to transmit or receive over a comparable range. The length of a monopole antenna is determined by the wavelength of the RF waves it uses. For example, a quarter-wavelength monopole is about 1 / 4 the length of a radio wavelength.

[0187] A monopole antenna typically transmits (and / or receives) radiation omnidirectionally; for example, approximately 360 degrees around the axis of the antenna structure line. The signal strength can be evenly or nearly evenly distributed around the axis of the monopole. If there is any signal beyond the ground plane, it will radiate (or receive) a smaller portion. In addition, it radiates (or receives) limited signal only away from the ground plane in the direction of the monopole axis. When the monopole antenna structure is placed on a flat surface such as a sheet, the monopole antenna structure will radiate to the left and right sides of the structure, as well as into and out of the plane of the sheet. This directivity allows the monopole design to be used in many applications where omnidirectional azimuth transmission or reception is required.

[0188] The monopole antenna implemented on the window is relatively easy to manufacture. This can be achieved by a strip of conductive material on the plane of the glazing window and a ground plane positioned orthogonal to the axis of the conductive material strip or patch on the window. The ground plane can be implemented in many different ways. For example, it can be part of a conductive frame structure, such as an aluminum crossbar or vertical frame. It can also be a conductive sheet specially made to become a ground plane, such as a thin sheet of metal or conductive material attached to the sheet and separated from the terminals of the monopole antenna structure. It can also be such a flat portion of conductive material formed on or attached to the window frame or insulating glazing unit, or other structure around the window pane with the monopole structure. In some embodiments, the ground plane is provided on the same sheet as the monopole electrode antenna structure. As with other monopole antenna embodiments, the ground plane is offset from the axial terminals of the antenna structure, but in this case the ground plane is formed on the flat face of the sheet, on the surface where the antenna structure is located (see Fig.9D ) or parallel surfaces. In other embodiments, the ground plane is disposed on the edge of the sheet. For example, the ground plane can be a conductive strip such as a metal strip disposed on the edge of the sheet adjacent to the terminal of the monopole electrode structure. In some cases, such a ground plane is disposed on two or more edges of the sheet to constrain the radiation pattern of the antenna where appropriate.

[0189] In the case of electrochromic windows, monopole antennas have various applications. For example, monopole antennas can be used in the process of broadcasting signals to the inside or outside of a building. Monopole antennas can also receive signals from the inside or outside of a building. Omnidirectional monopole antennas can be used to generate Bluetooth beacons (IEEE 802.15.1; 2.4GHz to 2.485GHz), Wi-Fi repeaters (IEEE 802.11; mainly 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz), Zigbee network communications (IEEE 802.15.4; 915MHz, in the United States), etc.

[0190] The modified monopole antenna has a similar design to the omnidirectional monopole antenna design in that the antenna structure of the antenna is a monopole, patch, or wire. And like the omnidirectional monopole antenna, this monopole antenna has a ground plane, but the ground plane is oriented parallel to the axis of the monopole antenna structure. The term "parallel" is intended to include orientations where the electrodes differ by exactly 0 degrees as well as orientations where the electrodes do not differ by exactly 0 degrees (e.g., they are between about 0 degrees to 5 degrees or about 0 degrees to 15 degrees, or about 0 degrees to 30 degrees). When the antenna structure is disposed on a window, the ground plane can be disposed on the same surface as the antenna structure or on parallel surfaces such as opposing surfaces of a window having the antenna structure, or on one of the surfaces of a separate window of an IGU or other assembly of multiple panes. As an example, FIG. 2A to FIG. 4B The structure shown can be implemented as a monopole antenna with a parallel ground plane.

[0191] Like an omnidirectional monopole antenna, a monopole antenna with a parallel ground plane transmits (and / or receives) radiation at a single frequency or a narrow frequency band.

[0192] Unlike an omnidirectional monopole antenna, a monopole antenna with a parallel ground plane typically transmits (and / or receives) radiation directionally; for example, about 180 degrees to one side of the axis of the antenna structure line. The signal strength can be evenly or nearly evenly distributed around 180 degrees. If there is any signal beyond the ground plane, it will radiate (or receive) less of it. The radiation distribution can be a lobe with the strongest signal in the direction opposite to the ground plane. In some cases, the radiation distribution forms about half of a cylinder cut along the length of the antenna structure axis.

[0193] In the case of electrochromic windows, monopole antennas with parallel ground planes have various applications. For example, monopole antennas with parallel ground planes can be used to generate Bluetooth beacons (IEEE 802.15.1; 2.4 GHz to 2.485 GHz), Wi-Fi repeaters (IEEE 802.11; mainly 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz), Zigbee network communications (IEEE802.15.4; 915 MHz, in the United States), etc.

[0194] Exemplary Dipole Antenna

[0195] The dipole antenna includes two electrodes, both of which are antenna structures that radiate (or receive) electromagnetic energy. Each such electrode is a monopole, patch or line, like a monopole electrode. And, like the monopole antenna in the window implementation, the dipole electrode can be arranged on the window surface as a stripline (e.g., as a thin line of TCO, copper metal or silver ink). Typically, the lines or patches of the dipole antenna are parallel. The term "parallel" is intended to include an orientation in which the electrodes are exactly 0 degrees apart and an orientation in which the electrodes are not completely 0 degrees apart (e.g., they are about 0 degrees to 5 degrees or about 0 degrees to 15 degrees, or about 0 degrees to 30 degrees). The dipole antenna can be designed to have or not have a ground plane. When present, the ground plane can be a third electrode and can be oriented perpendicular to or parallel to the poles of the dipole antenna in a manner similar to the arrangement in the omnidirectional and limited direction monopole antennas. Individual dipole electrodes can share a single ground plane. In the dipole design, the ground plane can be arranged on a conductive frame structure or on other specially designed structures as described above for the monopole antenna.

[0196] When the electrodes are the same or substantially the same length, a dipole antenna typically operates at a single frequency or narrow frequency band. In this case, the wavelength may be about twice the length of the dipole antenna structure. When the antenna structure has different lengths, the antenna structure radiates (or receives) radiation of different frequencies, each radiation being associated with a different pole (electrode).

[0197] The dipole antenna operates directionally with maximum radiation intensity (or signal reception efficiency) in two lobes substantially parallel to the two poles of the antenna and with relatively high intensity in the plane located between the two poles. Applications for dipole window antennas include those for monopole antennas, but in some cases with more directivity or where a stronger signal is needed, such as the lower floors of high-rise buildings in cities. These locations may experience severe noise and interference from multiple RF sources.

[0198] Fig. 6A IGU 202 is shown as reference Figure 2A or Figure 2B A top view or plan view of the IGU 202 is shown and described. Fig. 6A In the IGU 202, the first antenna structure 230 and the second antenna structure 232 are centrally connected as a dipole antenna. In some implementations, Fig. 6A The IGU 202 also includes matching circuits 650 and 652 for providing impedance matching or filtering for the first antenna structure 230 and the second antenna structure 232. For example, each of the matching circuits 650 and 652 may include one or more passive circuit elements such as one or more inductors, capacitors, resistors, and / or transformers. Figure 6B The IGU 202 shown and described is similar to that of reference Fig. 6A The IGU 202 is shown and described except for at least the difference that the first antenna structure 230 and the second antenna structure 232 are electrically connected as monopole antennas.

[0199] refer to Figure 6B, if the first antenna structure 230 and the second antenna structure 232 have the same parameters (particularly length) and are driven in phase with a signal having the same frequency, there will be constructive interference between them. However, if the first antenna structure 230 and the second antenna structure 232 have the same parameters (particularly length) and are driven 180 degrees out of phase with a signal having the same frequency, the combination of the first antenna structure 230 and the second antenna structure 232 will act as a folded dipole, with each of the first antenna structure 230 and the second antenna structure 232 acting as a half dipole. In addition, if the parameters of the first antenna structure 230 and the second antenna structure 232 are different or if the frequency or phase of the signal applied to each of the first antenna structure 230 and the second antenna structure 232 is different, there will be constructive and destructive interference, which can be used to adjust the directivity of the combination of the first antenna structure 230 and the second antenna structure 232 as a whole. Typically, in an implementation including multiple antenna design patterns (e.g., transmitting at different frequencies), the window is configured so that the multiple design patterns can be independently addressed by, for example, a network controller. In some cases, the window and / or controller can be configured to dynamically select which antenna to use and which power and phase to apply. Additionally, in implementations where fractal antennas are used, the controller can also be used to adjust the frequency operating range of the fractal antenna.

[0200] In some embodiments, antenna structures 230 and 232 or other antenna structures (such as Figure 8B The antenna structures (i.e., antenna structures) are located near the edge of one or more sheets in the IGU such that they are shielded by the IGU spacers and are therefore not visible within the viewable area of ​​the sheets. Thus, the antenna structures may have line widths and other dimensions and optical properties that would otherwise make them visible if they were not hidden by the spacers. Note that in some embodiments, when the spacers shield the antenna structures, the IGU spacers are made of a non-conductive material.

[0201] Fig. 7A and Figure 7B Various exemplary antenna structures and patterns are shown according to some other implementations. Fig. 7A The IGU 202 shown and described is similar to that of reference Fig. 6A The IGU 202 is shown and described except for at least the following difference, that is, the first dipole-connected antenna structure 230 and the second dipole-connected antenna structure 232 each include multiple dipole-connected antenna structures driven by the same signal. In the illustrated implementation, the antenna structures each have a length equal to a different integer number of quarter wavelengths of the associated signal. In some similar implementations, one or more antenna structures can be implemented as a Yagi antenna or a log-periodic antenna. Reference Figure 7B The IGU 202 shown and described is similar to that of reference Fig. 7AThe IGU 202 is shown and described except for at least the difference that the first dipole-connected antenna structure 230 and the second dipole-connected antenna structure 232 each comprise an array of dipole-connected antenna structures driven by the same signal.

[0202] The Yagi antenna consists of a number of parallel elements distributed along a line. The parallel elements can be attached to a crossbar. At least one pair of these elements is driven as a dipole pair and connected to the antenna circuit (transmitter or receiver) via a transmission line. FIG. 7A to FIG. 7B There is at least one parasitic element in the parallel elements that is not electrically connected to the transmitter or receiver and acts as a resonator that reradiates the radio waves to modify the radiation pattern. The other parallel element is a reflector located on one side of the driven element. The typical spacing between the elements varies from about 1 / 10 to 1 / 4 of the wavelength, depending on the specific design. The length of the director is slightly shorter than the length of the driven element, while the reflector is slightly longer.

[0203] The Yagi antenna has the same frequency characteristics as the dipole antenna. When the electrode lengths are the same or substantially the same, the Yagi antenna has a single frequency or narrow band. In this case, the wavelength can be approximately twice the length of the dipole antenna structure length. When the antenna structure has different lengths, the antenna structure radiates (or receives) radiation of different frequencies, each associated with a different pole (electrode). The radiation pattern is essentially unidirectional, with the main lobe along the axis of the element in the plane of the element perpendicular to the element. Applications on windows include those requiring strongly directional components. Note that the Yagi antenna transmits and receives radiation polarized in the planar direction of the antenna structure. In cases where the broadcast radiation is polarized in the horizontal direction, a Yagi antenna set on a skylight or other horizontally oriented window may be appropriate.

[0204] A log-periodic antenna has an antenna structure with multiple dipole driven elements of increasing length. See e.g. FIG. 7A to FIG. 7B . Each dipole driven element comprises a pair of parallel conductive strips or wires which may be formed on the window surface. The dipole elements are arranged close together along a line connected in parallel to a feed line of a transmitter or receiver. The dipole elements are spaced apart at intervals as a sigma function of the frequency. The length of the wires in the dipole elements corresponds to resonances at different frequencies of the overall bandwidth of the antenna. Each wire element of the log-periodic antenna is active, i.e., electrically connected to the feed line. When present, the ground plane may be oriented perpendicular or parallel to the dipole elements of the log-periodic antenna in a manner similar to the arrangement in a monopole antenna.

[0205] Log-periodic antennas transmit and / or receive a wide frequency band determined by the length portion of the dipole element being driven. Log-periodic antennas are highly directional and typically have a narrow beam radiation pattern. The radiation pattern is nearly constant over the frequency range of the log-periodic antenna. Applications on window antennas include those applicable to other dipole antennas such as the Yagi antenna.

[0206] Exemplary Fractal Antenna

[0207] A fractal antenna has an antenna structure with a fractal shape. One example of a suitable shape is a Sierpinski fractal shape. Other examples include Koch curves and Hilbert-Peano curves. See, for example FIG. 8A to FIG. 8B . Fractal antennas are designed and manufactured by several companies, including Fractus of Barcelona, ​​Spain. Typically, in a window implementation, it is provided on the window surface as a fractal design (e.g., as thin lines of TCO, copper metal, or silver ink). In some implementations, the second electrode is a ground plane oriented perpendicular to the axis of the line forming the antenna structure as described above for the monopole antenna. In some implementations, the ground plane is oriented parallel to the axis of the fractal antenna structure such as a monopole antenna with a parallel ground plane. The window area occupied by the fractal antenna can be relatively small; for example, the longest dimension is on the order of about 4 inches or less (e.g., approximately 20 mm×30 mm).

[0208] Depending on the fractal structure, a fractal antenna can have single or multiple frequencies. A fractal antenna can be designed to have the characteristics of a monopole antenna or a group of monopole antennas. Because a fractal antenna can be designed to have the characteristics of a monopole antenna or a group of monopole antennas, it can have the directional characteristics of an omnidirectional monopole antenna or a monopole antenna with a parallel ground plane (both of the above) depending on the position of the ground plane. The benefit of fractal antennas is that they can operate efficiently at multiple frequencies while occupying a relatively small space on the window. Fig. 8A As shown, the repeating structure of the Sierpinski fractal provides multiple iterations of the monopole antenna, each with a different frequency. In some implementations, the different frequencies can provide different applications for the window antenna, or they can provide different operating bands for a single application.

[0209] Figure 8B A monopole window antenna is shown with a Sierpinski fractal antenna structure 801 oriented perpendicular to a ground plane 802. In certain implementations, the Sierpinski fractal antenna structure 801 is fabricated on a sheet surface and the ground plane 802 is implemented on a spacer or window frame element such as a mullion or crossbar.

[0210] Figure 8C shows the implementation as a patch antenna ( Figure 8BThe Sierpinski fractal antenna structure is a "fractal patch" (a "fractal patch") and a parallel ground plane that together sandwich a substrate such as a sheet. Exemplary dimensions are provided in the accompanying drawings. In general, the Sierpinski fractal antenna can be implemented as a small size patch, for example, having a base to vertex dimension of about 5 inches or less, or about 2 inches or less.

[0211] refer to Fig.8D and Fig. 8E The IGU 202 shown and described is similar to that of reference Fig. 6A The IGU 202 is shown and described except for at least the following difference, that is, the first antenna structure 230 and the second antenna structure 232 are patterned or otherwise formed as fractal antennas. More specifically, in Fig.8D In the IGU 202, each of the first antenna structure 230 and the second antenna structure 232 is patterned as a Koch curve. Fig. 8E In the IGU 202 of FIG. 2, each of the first antenna structure 230 and the second antenna structure 232 is patterned as a Hilbert-Peano curve. In some such implementations (and even in other implementations described above), the antenna structures 230 and 232 can be advantageously patterned using silver or other conductive material nanoprinting, roll mask lithography, or other techniques. In these and other implementations, it is generally desirable that the antenna structures are narrow or transparent enough so as not to be easily or readily visible to the human eye. In some other implementations, the first antenna structure 230 and the second antenna structure 232 can be patterned to form other types of antennas including Greek key antennas.

[0212] Multiple antennas on a single window, IGU, or window and associated structure (such as frame, mullions, transoms, etc.)

[0213] In certain embodiments, a window and / or window-associated components include multiple antennas. Given the small size and unobtrusive configuration of multiple antenna structures, multiple antennas may be provided on a single window (panel) and / or associated window components. For example, a fractal antenna may be approximately 2 inches in size. In addition to one or more panels of a window assembly, antennas may also be provided on one or more windows and / or antenna controllers, IGU spacers, window frames (including vertical frames and horizontal rails), etc. In some cases, the antenna is provided on a circuit board of a window controller. In some cases, the antenna is provided on an adhesive strip that is used to provide a conductor that connects two or more elements such as an electrochromic window, an antenna structure, a ground plane, and a controller. In the Fig.11D , Fig.11G and Fig.11HAn example of such an adhesive strip is provided in . Obviously, some designs use two or more antennas, each with its own radiation pattern. In such embodiments, the design can address the possibility of interference and / or null areas.

[0214] Fig. 9B An example is presented in which a sheet 909, which like many sheets described herein, can be an electrochromic sheet, contains a fractal antenna 913 and a universal patch antenna 915, each of which is controlled separately, but shares a single ground plane 911. In some embodiments, the two antennas use different ground planes. In some implementations, the two antennas are driven in a complementary manner so as to act as dipole antennas. In other implementations, the antennas cannot work together, but provide separate applications, such as providing a Bluetooth beacon and providing Wi-Fi services. In the depicted configuration, the ground plane 911 is substantially perpendicular to the sheet 909 and the associated antennas 913 and 915.

[0215] Fig. 9C An example is presented where a sheet 970 has three Sierpinski fractal antennas 980, 982, and 984 disposed on a sheet surface. Although not shown, one or more associated ground planes may be disposed on parallel surfaces of sheet 970 or on parallel sheets that may be part of an IGU having sheet 970. Controller 975 may be disposed on or near sheet 970. In one example, as described with respect to FIG. 11A to FIG. 11F As discussed, a window-attached carrier is used to implement controller 975. In the depicted example, a communication interface 974 is provided within controller 975. Interface 974 can provide communication between the antenna of sheet 970 and a main controller or other source of instructions for operating the antenna. In some implementations, interface 974 is configured to interface with a CAN bus. Of course, other communication protocols may also be used. Controller 975 also includes logic for controlling antennas. This logic may be used as receive / transmit logic for individual antennas. As shown, logic block 978 controls antenna 984 and logic block 976 controls antennas 980 and 982. In some implementations, antennas 980 and 982 operate together as a dipole antenna.

[0216] Interconnects used to connect antenna components to transmitter / receiver logic

[0217] As explained, the antenna structures can be implemented as, for example, lines of conductive material, such as transparent conductive oxide lines, in a plane on the window surface, but separated from a ground plane by a dielectric. As described above, at least the antenna structures must each be electrically coupled to transmitter and / or receiver logic, which can be implemented in the antenna controller. In addition, the ground plane, if present, must be connected to ground. Various types of electrical connectors (or "interconnects") can be used for these purposes, the type of which varies depending on the portion of the window where the antenna components and controller reside.

[0218] One or more interconnects around the edge of the die

[0219] In antenna designs where antenna electrodes are located on different surfaces (e.g., they are not all located on the same surface of the sheet), electrical connectors may be required to pass between or around parts of the window or IGU. For example, electrical connectors may be required between IGU surfaces S4 and S3, between surfaces S4 and S2, between surfaces S4 and S1, between surfaces S3 and S2, between surfaces S3 and S1, between surfaces S2 and S1, between a spacer surface and any IGU sheet surface, or between a window frame element (including a vertical frame or horizontal bar) and any sheet surface. Electrical connectors may take the form of wires, cables, tapes, conductive blocks, etc. that are routed to form the necessary connectors when appropriate. In some cases, the interconnect passes into the room or under the IGU spacer. In some cases, the interconnect conforms to the shape / surface of the edge of the sheet, spacer, or other surface between the antenna electrodes that need to be connected. Several examples are described below. Any of these examples can be expanded to adopt other types of interconnects described herein.

[0220] In various embodiments, the two interconnects emanate from a connector on the IGU or other associated window structure. The connector connects to an antenna controller (receiver and / or transmitter logic) located elsewhere on the IGU or at a remote location. FIG. 10A to FIG. 10F Examples are presented of a connector located on or near a window or IGU, and separate electrical connections running to a ground plane and antenna structure.

[0221] Fig. 10AA cross section of sheet 1001 is shown with a cable 1003, such as a shielded coaxial cable, attached to the edge of the sheet. Cable 1003 is in electrical communication with an antenna receiver and / or transmitter (not shown). A grounded shield 1005 of cable 1003 connects to a ground plane 1007 on sheet 1001, and a center conductor 1009 of cable 1003 connects to a stripline or patch antenna 1011 on sheet 1001. Ground plane 1007 and antenna structure 1011 are located on opposite sides of sheet 1001. In this embodiment, cable 1003 maintains its integrity relative to the antenna transmitter / receiver (grounded shield 1005 surrounds center conductor 1009) until it reaches sheet 1001, where shield 1005 separates from conductor 1009 to reach separate locations of ground plane 1007 and antenna structure 1011. In the depicted embodiment, cable 1003 is attached to the edge of sheet 1001, and from there is divided into a ground connector and a signal / power connector. In alternative embodiments, the cable 1003 is attached to a face of the sheet 1001 or other location proximate to the ground plane and antenna structure.

[0222] Fig. 10B A related embodiment is shown in which the cables 1003 are attached to the face, rather than the edge, of the sheet 1001. In this example, the sheet 1001 forms part of an insulating glass unit, which includes parallel sheets 1013 and spacers 1015. The antenna structure 1011 is located just outside the outer edge of the spacer 1015. If the spacer 1015 is non-conductive or, for example, coated with a non-conductive material, the antenna structure 1011 can be disposed completely or partially under the spacer.

[0223] Fig. 10C A similar example is presented, but relies on a small connector 1017, such as a standard MCX connector, to connect the wire 1019 from the antenna receiver / transmitter to the antenna structure 1011 and the ground plane 1007. Many types of small (e.g., no larger than 1 inch in size) connectors are available to make the necessary connections. Since the connector 1017 does not include the ground shield of the cable 1003, a separate conductive wire 1021 is used to route the ground plane 1007 to the ground terminal of the connector 1017. Various options are available for implementing the conductive wire 1021. In Fig. 10D and Fig.10E One of these options is shown in FIG. As shown, conductive line 1021 is a strip that meets the edge of sheet 1001 when extending from connector 1017 to ground plane 1007. Conductive line 1021 can be a strip of ductile material such as metal foil, such as copper foil. Alternatively, conductive line 1021 can be a conductor (similar to Fig.11D and 11G The conductor shown in FIG. 1 is a flexible tape, but does not necessarily require more than a single conductive line. Fig.10EIn the detail shown, wire 1021 is connected to ground plane 1007 via solder 1025. Of course, friction fittings, conductive inks, etc. may be used instead of solder. Fig. 10D and Fig.10E As shown, conductive line 1023 spans the distance from connector 1017 to antenna element 1011. In certain embodiments, line 1023 is a strip of transparent conductive material or conductive ink. The current carrying conductive lines on the surface of the sheet will be described below.

[0224] Fig.10F An embodiment is shown in which electrical connections to patch antenna 1011 are provided through conductive wire 1023. In this embodiment, wire 1029 or other independent conductive wire passes through spacer 1027 of the IGU including sheet 1001. Wire 1029 may be attached to conductive wire 1023 by solder or other connectors.

[0225] Interconnects on the chip surface

[0226] In the case where the ground plane and the antenna structure are located on the same plane, Fig.9D An example of a suitable interconnect design is provided in . As shown, a fractal patch antenna 995 and a ground plane strip 993 are disposed on a single surface (e.g., S2) of a sheet 991. The transceiver is connected to the ground plane and patch antenna structure via a cable 997 having a center conductor 998 and a ground sheath surrounding the center conductor. The ground plane strip 993 is electrically connected to the cable sheath by a short connector 999, which can be, for example, soldered to the strip 993. The antenna structure 995 is electrically connected to the center conductor 998 by solder or other suitable connector.

[0227] When a transmission line is arranged between the antenna structure and another element such as a ground plane or a transmitter on the window surface, the transmission line should be designed so that it does not radiate. To this end, the transmission line can be implemented as three parallel lines, the middle one being the signal carrying line and the surrounding ones being the ground lines.

[0228] This design may be required when the antenna structure is located on an area of ​​the window relatively far from the edge of the sheet where the ground plane, transmitter or receiver are connected. For example, the antenna structure may need to be a certain distance from a conductive frame structure such as a mullion or crosspiece.

[0229] In conventional cabling such as coaxial cabling, shielding is achieved by grounding the shield around the conductors inside the cable. In the window implementation described here, where the transmission line spans a certain distance on the surface of the sheet, a similar shielding structure can be provided by placing grounded conductive strips on either side of the center signal conductor. When using flexible tape to provide such Fig.11GA similar three-conductor configuration may be used when the electrical connector is located on a flat surface, but with the tape shown.

[0230] Interconnects between controller and antenna components

[0231] In some implementations, an antenna controller (e.g., receiver and / or transmitter control logic), which may be implemented using an electrochromic window controller or other logic, may be disposed on a pane of the IGU, e.g., on a surface accessible from indoors in a building. In the case of an IGU having two panes, for example, the controller may be disposed on surface S4. Figures 11A to 11C Embodiments are depicted in which the various controller components are disposed in a carrier 1108 that can be mounted on a base 1107 that can be attached to the surface S4 of the inner sheet 1100b by a pressure sensitive adhesive (e.g., double-sided tape, etc., not shown) or a different adhesive (e.g., epoxy or other adhesive). In various cases, the carrier 1108 can house all of the components typically found in an antenna and optionally a window controller.

[0232] exist Fig.11A , the IGU includes an outer sheet 1100a and an inner sheet 1100b having surfaces S1 to S4 as shown. Sheets 1100a and 1100b are separated by a spacer 1101, which is hermetically sealed to sheets 1100a and 1100b by a primary sealing material (not shown). Busbars 1102 extend below the spacer 1101, for example, along the length of the spacer 1101 (into and out of the plane of the page), wherein busbar leads 1103 extend circumferentially outward through the edge of the spacer 1101. Carrier 1108 is aligned with and mated to base 1107. In this example, base 1107 is connected to connector 1117 via cable 1127. In some cases, connector 1117 can be an M8 connector. Cable 1127 can transmit power and / or communication information to the IGU. Power and / or communication information may be transferred from the base 1107 to the carrier 1108 via any available connection. Fig.11A , power and / or communication information may be transmitted from the base 1107 to the carrier 1108 via one or more connections 1125 and 1126 on the base 1107 and the carrier 1108, respectively.

[0233] The carrier 1108 includes a printed circuit board (PCB) 1109 on which various components 1111a, 1111b, and 1111c are mounted. The components 1111a to 1111c may be those commonly used by those skilled in the art and are described in detail in detail. Figure 2EIn some cases, various components on a circuit board may be disposed on a single side of the circuit board, while in other cases, the components may be disposed on both sides of the circuit board. A controller may have more than one circuit board, such as in a stacked format or side-by-side in the same plane.

[0234] A series of electrical connection structures such as spring-loaded telescopic probes 1110a, 1110b, and 1110c can provide power from the carrier 1108 through the base 1107 to the components located below the base 1107. The electrical connection structures can provide permanent or temporary electrical connections. The electrical connection structures can provide a secure attachment through adhesives, metallurgical bonds, friction, etc. In some cases, friction can be provided by spring loading (for example, in the case of telescopic probes), pressure obtained from the integral connection between the carrier 1108 / base 1107 / sheet 1100b, etc. Although the following example describes a telescopic probe, this is only an example. The connector can be gold-plated, for example, to increase reliability and prevent corrosion.

[0235] For example, the telescoping probe 1110a provides power to an electrical connector 1106, which routes power from S4 to S2, where an EC film (not shown) and busbar 1102 are provided. The electrical connector 1106 can provide power to the busbar lead 1103. The electrical connector 1106 can be a thin tape patterned with conductive wires (e.g., copper ink, silver ink, etc.), a ribbon cable, another type of cable, a clamp patterned with conductive wires thereon or therein, or a different type of electrical connector. Similar connectors can be provided to antenna components.

[0236] In some cases, a sealing material 1105 may be disposed between the inner sheet 1100b and the electrical connector 1106, which helps ensure that the interior of the IGU remains airtightly sealed. In some such cases (not shown), the sealing material 1105 (or another sealing material) may extend to reach the outer periphery along the spacer 1101 to help keep the electrical connector 1106 close to the spacer 1101 in place. The sealing material 1105 may be a pressure-sensitive sealing material or another sealing material. The secondary sealing material 1104 is located at the periphery of the spacer 1101 and the electrical connector 1106. Alternatively, the connector 1106, instead of passing around the edge of the inner pane, may pass through a hole passing through the inner pane, such as where 1106 is emitted at the base and therefore cannot be seen by the end user. In this case, a sealing material such as 1105 may be used to seal 1106 (e.g., a line) to seal between 1106 and the hole in the inner sheet through which 1106 passes.

[0237] A second telescopic probe 1110b can provide an electrical connection between carrier 1108 and component 1115, and a third telescopic probe 1110c can provide an electrical connection between carrier 1108 and component 1116. In various embodiments, components 1115 and 1116 can form a portion of an antenna patterned onto surface S4. For example, component 1115 can provide a ground connection for the ground plane of the antenna, and component 1116 can be a portion of an antenna structure (e.g., a stripline, a fractal element, a logarithmic periodic element, etc.). In some embodiments, the ground plane and / or the antenna structure can be disposed on any or all of S1 to S4, on a spacer of the IGU, on the window / antenna controller itself, on a frame, on a vertical frame, or on a horizontal bar, or on another component associated with the IGU or window. The electrical connector to the antenna is appropriately configured depending on the position of the component on the glass surface or between the panes, such as in or on the spacer surface.

[0238] Despite FIG. 11A to FIG. 11C Only three telescopic probes are shown, but any number of telescopic probes may be provided as needed to power different components or receive input from antennas, etc. In one example, an additional telescopic probe (not shown) is provided that provides power to a PV connector similar to electrical connector 1106. The PV connector may have the same shape / properties as electrical connector 1106, but instead of delivering power to the busbars, the PV connector delivers power from the PV film located on surface S2 to carrier 1108. In the case where the PV film is located on surface S3, the same Fig. 11B Similar to the electrical connector 1120 shown, the PV connector can simply transfer power from the PV film on surface S3 to the base and / or carrier on surface S4. The PV connector can supply power from the PV cell to the onboard battery or supercapacitor as described. Any of the mechanisms and hardware described herein for routing power between (a) a carrier and / or base and (b) a busbar (or a conductor electrically connected to a busbar) can also be used to establish an electrical connection between (a) a carrier and / or base and (b) a PV film on one of the sheets of an IGU.

[0239] The carrier 1108 can fit securely onto the base 1107 and in some cases can be locked into place (e.g., to prevent theft and minimize any possible damage). A mouse hole, slit, or other opening can be provided in the carrier 1108 through which the cable 1127 can be passed. The cable 1127 can be hidden from view by the carrier being positioned close enough to the frame of the window so as to conceal the cable 1127 (the cable enters the frame, e.g., the connector 1117 is within the frame and an electrical connection is made there).

[0240] Fig. 11B Presented with Fig.11AA similar embodiment is shown, but only two major differences are described. Fig. 11B 1108, rather than being connected to the base 1107 (although in alternative embodiments it may be connected to the carrier 1108). Fig.11A Therefore, no connectors (such as Fig.11A 1125 and 1126) are used to transmit power and / or communication information from the base 1107 to the carrier 1108. In this example, the base 1107 can be unpowered, with power being delivered directly from the carrier 1108 to the electrical connector 1120 (and components 1115 and 1116) through the telescopic probes 1110a-1110c. In another embodiment, one or more of the telescopic probes 1110a-1110c can terminate above the base 1107 rather than passing through the base 1107. The base 1107 can then deliver power to the components located below the base 1107 through any available electrical connectors. In one example, the base 1107 includes conductive traces that each electrically connect (a) the point at which the telescopic probes 1110a-1110c contact the base 1107 with (b) components located below the base 1107 that are powered by the associated telescopic probes (e.g., components 1115 and 1116, and electrical connectors 1106 or 1120). Alternatively or in addition, the base can include electrical connectors that pass through the base rather than being disposed only on a surface of the base.

[0241] Fig. 11B and Fig.11A Another relative difference is that the electrical connector 1106 is replaced with a different electrical connector 1120 and a block 1121. The electrical connector 1120 transfers power from S4 to S3 around the edge of the inner sheet 1100b. The block 1121 transfers power from S3 to S2, where the power can be delivered to the bus lead 1103 and / or antenna components. The block 1121 can be conductive or have conductors thereon or therein to achieve this purpose. In one example, the block 1121 is made of a material that is easy to be firmly inserted between the sheets 1100a and 1100b. Exemplary materials include foam, rubber, silicone, etc. In some cases, conductive wires can be printed on the block to electrically connect S2 and S3, and in some embodiments, the block cooperates with a ribbon cable or a flexible printed circuit with an adhesive backing to form a connection between S2 and S3.

[0242] Electrical connector 1120 may be any type of connector described with respect to electrical connector 1106. A sealing material (not shown) may be disposed between spacer 1101 and block 1121 to ensure a hermetic seal.

[0243] Fig. 11C Presented with Fig. 11BSimilar embodiments are shown, but only the main differences are described. Fig. 11C In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 , block 1121 is replaced with a wire 1122 (or a series of wires) that transfers power from S3 to S2. In a similar embodiment, a block or sheet (not shown) may be provided to secure wire 1122 (or other electrical connections) to spacer 1101. This technique may ensure that wire 1122 or other electrical connections are out of the way when secondary seal 1104 is formed. In an alternative configuration, one or more wires 1122 may pass through pane 1100b via one or more holes, and optionally a sealant material may be used to form an airtight seal so that moisture cannot pass through the holes.

[0244] exist FIG. 11A to FIG. 11C In each of the Figures, a set of electrical connectors is shown that provides power from S4 to S2. However, it should be understood that each electrochromic window has two (or more) busbars, and the electrical connectors should be configured to provide appropriate power connections for each busbar. In addition, any of the electrical connector designs can be used to transfer power and / or data to or from the antenna element.

[0245] Despite FIG. 11A to FIG. 11C 1108 . It is not explicitly shown in the drawings, but one or both of the base 1107 and the carrier 1108 may include a programmable chip that includes information related to the associated IGU, such as information about the antenna and / or electrochromic film in the IGU. Such information may relate to any one or more of the following: antenna configuration (e.g., monopole, dipole, stripline, fractal, etc.); frequency characteristics of the antenna; radiation intensity distribution (e.g., omnidirectional); polarization state of the emitted or received radiation; drive parameters of the antenna; size of the window; materials of the window and associated electrochromic device; current and voltage limits specific to the electrochromic device; control algorithms or other control parameters specific to the electrochromic device (e.g., required drive and hold voltages and slopes); cycling and other life information, etc. It may be particularly advantageous to include the chip in the base 1107 to eliminate the risk of mismatching the chip due to incorrect installation on different windows. In this way, the carrier 1108 can be substantially universal / interchangeable, making it no difference which carrier is paired with which IGU. This feature may significantly reduce installation complications and errors. Similarly, some of the other components typically found in a controller may be provided in a base or other docking device as desired (e.g., as opposed to being provided in a carrier). As described elsewhere, in cases where the docking device itself includes components typically found in a controller, the term "controller" may refer to the docking device, the carrier, or both. FIG. 11A to FIG. 11CNot shown, one or both of the base 1107 or the carrier 1108 may include a port (e.g., a USB port, a mini USB port, a micro USB port, etc.). In various embodiments, the port may be oriented so that a device (e.g., a USB drive) docked with the port is inserted in a direction parallel to the sheet of the IGU. In some other embodiments, the port may be oriented so that a device docked with the port is inserted in a direction orthogonal to the sheet of the IGU. Other options are possible, such as where the docking device and / or the carrier are not rectangular.

[0246] Fig.11D An example of a section of flexible tape with conductive lines is presented; in a sense, it can be considered a flexible printed circuit. Conductive tape is known for its Fig.11A The shape of the electrical connector 1106 is shown in the case shown. The tape is wrapped around the inner sheet 1100b, extends past the outer periphery of the spacer 1101, and rests on S2 of the outer sheet 1100a, where the tape can provide a power connection to the busbars / busbar leads (not shown), where each busbar has one lead. Similarly, the flexible tape can be used to provide electrical connections to antenna components such as a ground plane and one or more antenna structures. In some embodiments, when used to connect to an antenna structure, the tape can include three conductors instead of Fig.11D For example, Fig.11G As depicted, center conductor 1191 is used for signal communication, and outer conductor 1193 is grounded to prevent center conductor radiation. Generally speaking, the tape can transmit power and / or communication between any surface of the IGU (e.g., S4-S3, S4-S2, S4-S1, S3-S1, S2-S1, and S3-S2). Individual antenna elements are connected to antenna controllers (receivers and / or transmitters) via connectors. In some embodiments, the flexible tape includes an adhesive surface that allows the flexible tape to adhere to the IGU structure it traverses.

[0247] Fig.11E Presents how Fig.11AView of a portion of the described IGU. Base 1107 is shown mounted on inner sheet 1100b. Electrical connector 1106 transfers power from S4 to S2, thereby transferring power to first bus lead 1125a and second bus lead 1125b. First bus lead 1125a can transfer power to the first bus, while second bus lead 1125b can transfer power to the second bus. In embodiments where additional busbars are provided (e.g., to define different zones within a single EC sheet), additional wires located on the conductive tape and additional bus leads connected to such tape can be provided. Similarly, if other electrical components of the window assembly such as an antenna component are located on S1, S2, S3 and / or S4, then the flexible tape circuit can be configured to make electrical connections with these additional components. Base 1107 is Fig.11E 1119. These features can be various components, including but not limited to: providing a hole for accommodating a sensor (e.g., a light sensor); a hole for accommodating a connector to a window element (e.g., a telescopic probe); a connector for transferring power and / or communication information between the base and the carrier; a locking mechanism for ensuring that the carrier does not detach from the base (unless appropriate), etc. Although the base is depicted as having a single flexible circuit tape type connector, for example, extending to one side of the base, there may be other flexible tape circuits extending to the base. For example, one tape may extend as depicted, while another tape extends to the other side of the base. This embodiment can facilitate contact with the coating, antenna structure, etc. on, for example, S2, S3, without having to make all connections with a single circuit tape. Although in some embodiments, a single circuit tape may be required to simplify manufacturing, such as convergent manufacturing, where a single location (flexible circuit) is used to form all electrical connections between sheets. In some embodiments, the tape connector may include more than two conductive lines. It may also include one or more branches for directing some conducting lines to one location and directing one or more other conducting lines to one or more other locations.

[0248] Fig.11F Shows Fig.11E The embodiment of the IGU is mounted on a base (not shown) with the carrier 1108. The cable 1127 provides power and / or communication information to the IGU and can be connected to the base 1107 (such as Fig.11A ) or connected to the carrier 1108 (as shown Fig. 11B and Fig. 11C11). Connector 1117 may mate with another connector 1130, which may provide power and / or communication via cable 1128. Connectors 1117 and 1130 may be M8 connectors, and cable 1128 may be a lead-in wire that may be directly connected to a trunk line as described herein. Cable 1127 may be a window cable, also known as an IGU cable. Fig.11F The cable 1127 and electrical connector 1106 are shown exiting different sides of the carrier 1108 (and / or base 1107), although in other embodiments both connectors may exit the same side of the carrier 1108 (and / or base 1107). Even though there is a hard connection to power in this embodiment, there is still the advantage that the controller can be easily accessed on, for example, S4 of the IGU and the controller can be removable, for example in a modular box-type format.

[0249] One embodiment is an electrochromic window with an antenna controller mounted on a window pane, wherein the antenna controller has a base and a carrier. In one embodiment, the antenna controller has a box-type format, wherein the base and the carrier are docked with each other in a reversible interlocking manner. In one embodiment, the controller includes a battery. In one embodiment, the battery is removable from the controller. In one embodiment, the battery is a part of the base. In another embodiment, the battery is a part of the carrier. In one embodiment, the battery is a flat battery. In one embodiment, the battery is rechargeable. In one embodiment, the battery is a lithium-ion-based battery. In one embodiment, the carrier and the base have an anti-tampering mechanism for separating the carrier from the base. In one embodiment, the base is attached to the pane in an adhesive manner. In one embodiment, the base is electrically communicated with the electrochromic device of the electrochromic window via a circuit tape or a ribbon cable. In one embodiment, the base is electrically communicated with the antenna of the electrochromic window via a circuit tape or a ribbon cable. In one embodiment, the base is electrically communicated with one or more antenna components of the electrochromic window via a circuit tape or a ribbon cable. In one embodiment, the base is electrically communicated with the busbar or sensor of the electrochromic window via a circuit tape or a ribbon cable. In one embodiment, the top (outermost layer of the pane) surface of the base is about 1 / 2 inch or less from the surface of the pane to which the base is attached, such as about 3 / 8 inch or less from the surface of the pane, such as about 1 / 8 inch or less from the surface of the pane. In one embodiment, the top (outermost layer of the pane) surface of the carrier, when docked with the base, is about 1 inch or less from the surface of the pane to which the carrier is attached, such as about 3 / 4 inch or less from the surface of the pane, such as about 1 / 2 inch or less from the surface of the pane. In one embodiment, the base is rectangular. In one embodiment, the shape of the base has at least one right angle so that the base can be assembled to the corner of the frame supporting the electrochromic window. In one embodiment, the controller includes at least one display. The display can be, for example, an LCD display and an LED display, etc. The display can indicate the tinting level or antenna setting of the electrochromic window. In one embodiment, the controller includes a control switch such as a button and / or a keyboard. The control switch can, for example, correspond to a tinting state and / or an antenna setting. The controller may include one or more indicator lights, such as LEDs, to indicate changes in tinting levels, antenna status, wireless communication connectivity, power status, etc.; these functions may also be displayed by the above-mentioned display with or without separate indicator lights. In one embodiment, the controller includes a USB port. In one embodiment, the controller includes a fiber optic communication port. In one embodiment, the controller includes a coaxial connection port. In one embodiment, the controller includes an antenna. In one embodiment, the controller has wireless communication, such as Bluetooth.

[0250] IGUs are typically mounted in a frame or frame system for support. Individual IGUs may be mounted in individual frames, while larger numbers of IGUs may be mounted in a curtain wall or similar structure where vertical frames and horizontal rails separate adjacent windows. All of these components may be considered to form the frame of the IGU. In various embodiments, holes, slots, or other perforations may be provided in the frame surrounding the IGU, and one or more wires / cables may be fed through the perforations. For example, in Fig.11F In the case of a carrier 1108, the cable 1127 can be routed through such a hole in the frame surrounding the IGU. In a similar embodiment, both the cable 1127 and the electrical connector 1106 are issued from the same side of the carrier 1108 (or the docking device below it), and the frame in which the IGU is mounted includes a hole adjacent to the edge of the inner sheet 1100b around which the electrical connector 1106 is wrapped. This hole may be hidden by the edge of the carrier 1108 (or the docking device, in another embodiment), and the carrier may be adjacent to the inner edge of the frame. In some cases, the outer shell of the carrier 1108 may be made of a material with a certain elastic angle (e.g., rubber, flexible plastic, etc.) so that the carrier is easily adjacent to the frame without forming any space between them. In other embodiments, although the shell of the carrier is rigid, a flexible material such as foam or rubber is applied to one side of the shell and / or frame around the hole so that when the carrier is docked with the base, the flexible material shields the connector 1106 and / or the cable 1127. Similarly, the portion of the carrier adjacent the edge of the frame can be made of such a material, with the remainder of the carrier being made of a different material. Cable 1127 can be routed through the hole in the frame and connected to power and / or communications delivered by cable 1128. In this way, the appearance of the on-glass controller is very clean, and the end user may not see the wiring or electrical connections to the controller; and because the controller has a small footprint (e.g., less than 4in 2 Less than 3in 2 or less than 2in 2 ), so it takes up very little of the visible area of ​​the window.

[0251] Fig.11FIt can also be used to illustrate another embodiment. For example, 1108 is not a docking device for a carrier (controller), but can be a user interface, such as a control panel, such as a touch panel, a keyboard or a touch screen display (and therefore, such as thin), and wiring 1106 is used to connect the user interface to the controller in the secondary seal. This is similar to the embodiment in which the carrier includes a controller circuit and a user control interface, except that the controller circuit is moved between the glass, such as in the secondary seal, and the user interface is kept on the glass. Therefore, wiring 1106 not only connects the busbar, antenna and other features located between the panes as described above, but also connects the controller circuit located between the panes in this example to the control panel. The user interface can be attached, for example, with an adhesive, and can be removable / replaceable. The user interface can be very thin, such as only having a keyboard connection to the flexible circuit 1106, or the control panel can be a digital display (which can also be thin and, for example, flexible). The control interface can be at least partially transparent. In one embodiment, the user control interface and circuit 1106 are single components. For example, adhesive sealant 1105 (as described above) on the back of 1106 may also be located on the back of a user control interface that has a protective backplane, for example, because of a "peel and stick" form factor. For example, during manufacturing, appropriate electrical contacts to busbars, antennas, controllers, and other components between panes are made for local areas on S2 and / or S3, as appropriate. When the sheets are put together during IGU formation, the local areas are aligned if one local area is located on, for example, both S2 and S3. The user interface is then peeled off and attached to the glass, for example, starting from S3, past a spacer to S2, around the edge of pane 1100b and then to S4. In this way, a convergent (and therefore efficient) manufacturing process is achieved.

[0252] Fig.11H A flexible ribbon interconnect 1150 having a first portion 1152 for providing signals to / from an antenna structure and a second portion 1154 for providing power to a busbar of an electrochromic device is depicted. Within the first portion 1152, a center conductor 1164 is provided for carrying signals to and from the antenna structure associated with the window, while outer conductors 1160 and 1162 are grounded and prevent radiation from passing through. Within the second portion 1154, conductors 1156 and 1158 are provided for powering opposite polarity electrodes on the electrochromic device. The depicted interconnect includes a branch that allows the first and second portions to separate their conductors and direct them to different locations where the busbar and antenna elements can reside. In certain embodiments, all logic for controlling the electrochromic device and antenna components is provided in a single location, such as a hybrid window / antenna controller described elsewhere herein. Although not shown in this figure, the interconnect 1150 typically extends beyond the top and bottom endpoints shown here.

[0253] Window Antenna Array

[0254] Fig.12 An array of IGUs 202 is shown, such as described with reference to any of the implementations shown or described above. For example, such an array can be arranged on the side or facade of a building. Each antenna structure within each respective IGU can be independently controlled (e.g., by the network controller described above and the corresponding window controller) using different signals or different phases to selectively provide constructive and destructive interference and ultimately provide ore grain size directionality of the transmitted signal. In addition, such an arrangement can be used to map outdoor environments or indoor environments. In addition, such an arrangement or antenna array can provide the gain required to collectively serve as a broadcast tower or receiving tower, thereby avoiding the need for other broadcasts (e.g., cellular towers).

[0255] Phased antenna arrays can be helpful in directing the transmission of signals in a specific direction to reach a specific area and narrowing the area where it is desired to be received. This directional transmission or reception is also called beamforming or spatial filtering. Spatial filtering using a phased array is usually achieved by combining the elements in the phased array so that the signal at a specific angle experiences constructive interference, while the signal at other angles experiences destructive interference. As described above, in order to achieve spatial selectivity, beamforming can be used at the transmitting end and the receiving end. In order to change the directivity of the array when transmitting, the controller controls the phase and relative amplitude of the signal provided to each transmitting antenna element to produce a pattern of constructive and destructive interference in the wavefront jointly generated by the phased array. Similarly, when receiving, information from different antenna elements is combined and otherwise processed to preferentially observe or otherwise provide information in a specific spatial area or along a specific direction. In some implementations, each signal sent to each antenna (or received from each antenna) can be amplified with different "weights". Different weighting modes (e.g., Dolph-Chebyshev) can be used to achieve the desired sensitivity mode. For example, a main lobe ("beam") having a controlled width, as well as nulls and side lobes having controlled positions, directions, or widths may be generated. Fig.13A A conventional cell tower network is shown having, for example, four cellular towers positioned to overlap appropriately as needed to maintain substantially complete geographic coverage for both theoretical urban and rural areas. Fig. 13BDepicted is the use of three buildings as cell tower replacements by using glass equipped with antennas (e.g., glass equipped with electrochromic antennas as described herein) in each of the three buildings. In this manner, conventional cell towers may be removed and, for example, broader geographic coverage may be achieved while maintaining complete coverage and clearing the view of many undesirable conventional cell towers. Additionally, EC antenna glass may be used to elevate the signal inside each building and / or make cellular traffic unidirectional or bidirectional, as desired. Antenna windows may eliminate some needs for cell towers.

[0256] Under proper control, an array of IGUs with antennas work in unison. At one moment in time, some window antennas can be selected for activation while other window antennas are stationary, and the activated antennas have radiation applied at a specified power, frequency, and / or phase. As an example, antennas on adjacent windows arranged in a row can be selectively activated and powered to produce a directional radiation pattern. Signals delivered to some or all windows in a facade can also be controlled to adjust the transmit and / or receive properties of individual windows. In addition, in implementations where some windows include multiple antenna structure patterns (e.g., transmitting or receiving different frequencies), such as those described above with reference to Figure 1A and Figure 1B The controllers described as master controller 111 or network controller 112 may be configured to dynamically select antennas to use. In implementations employing fractal antennas, the controllers may fine tune the operating frequencies of individual antennas.

[0257] In addition, in some implementations, the antenna structures and antennas described herein can be used to transmit signals between respective IGUs 102 and window controllers 114, network controllers 112, or master controllers 111. For example, in some implementations, the window controller 112 can transmit voltage or current drive parameters to a driver within or associated with the IGU 102 via the antenna structures described herein. The driver can be connected to one or more power sources and ground, and use the parameters received from the window controller 114 to power the ECD within the IGU 102. As another example, in an implementation where each IGU 102 includes one or more sensors (e.g., temperature sensors, current sensors, voltage sensors, light sensors, or other environmental sensors), the window controller 114 can wirelessly request and / or receive sensor data from the sensors via the antenna structures described herein. In some other implementations, the window controller 114 can communicate with the network controller 112 or the master controller 111 via the antenna structures described herein, and vice versa.

[0258] In various implementations, some or all of the antenna structures described herein are configured to operate within a selected frequency range, such as, but not limited to, the ISM bands, and in particular the ISM bands used for cellular communications (e.g., 700 MHz, 800 MHz, 850 MHz, 900 MHz, 1800 MHz, PCS, AWS, and BRS / EBS bands) and Wi-Fi (e.g., 2.4 GHz UHF and 5 GHz SHF bands), including those frequencies used by the Bluetooth wireless technology standard. Such antenna structures may also be used as micro-beacons, pico-cells, and femto-cells.

[0259] With the transition to 4G and 5G wireless mobile telecommunications standards, cellular service operators are moving from a model that relies on large, high-power cell towers to one that relies on multiple, smaller-power transmitters. Part of the motivation is to cover an area with coverage and maintain capacity, recognizing that the power at a receiver drops as the square of the distance from the cell transmitter. The disclosed method of controlling multiple windows of a building, or possibly even multiple buildings, which can each be adjusted to a specific transmit power and frequency, may be consistent with the 4G / 5G model.

[0260] Properties of transparent conductive layers for ground planes and / or antenna structures

[0261] Some discussed embodiments employ a ground plane as a sheet of transparent conductive material with appropriate properties, and a printed or patterned antenna structure. In many embodiments, the ground plane is present in the visible area of ​​the IGU, and therefore, the ground plane material should be substantially transparent at the thickness required to provide its function.

[0262] As an example, a ground plane made of indium tin oxide may have a thickness of about 1700 nm or more for transmitting or receiving 2.54 GHz signals. Some metal ion doped TCO materials may have increased conductivity and thereby allow for thinner ground plane areas. Examples of metal ion dopants include silver and copper.

[0263] In certain embodiments, the antenna pattern is defined by thin conductive lines deposited on the electrochromic device stack. The thin conductor layer can be provided by printing a conductive ink or laying a line such as a silk screen. Whether provided by mesh printing or otherwise, the conductive lines should be thin enough so that they do not affect the occupants' viewing through the window. When a silk screen is used, it can be provided as a prefabricated mesh and then laminated or otherwise fixed to an appropriate conductive layer or insulating layer used as part of or integrated with the electrochromic device stack. Alternatively, the silk screen can be deposited using rolling mask lithography. The pattern defining the antenna can be produced by selectively removing multiple portions of the silk screen area or the entire line.

[0264] Fabrication of window antenna structures

[0265] As shown elsewhere herein, the antenna can be fabricated on the window using a variety of techniques. Such techniques include, as is well known to those skilled in the art: printing the antenna structure; blanket depositing a ground plane; etching a conductive layer to form the antenna structure or ground plane; masking; photolithography, etc. A variety of materials can be employed to form the antenna structure and ground plane, and some of these materials are identified elsewhere herein. In some embodiments, the material is a conductive ink such as silver ink. In some embodiments, the material is a conductive transparent material such as a transparent conductive oxide (e.g., indium tin oxide).

[0266] In some embodiments, an antenna or multiple antennas on one or more surfaces of the substrate of the electrochromic window include materials deposited by a sol-gel process. In some embodiments, the sol-gel process involves applying a gelled precursor material to a substrate as a thin film in a pattern corresponding to the desired antenna. After an optional drying process, the film is heated to form the antenna. The substrate can be heated to achieve heating of the film, either locally or throughout the substrate. The heat treatment can be performed, for example, in the range of 100°C to 400°C, such as 150°C to 350°C, and in another example, 200°C to 300°C. The heating can be performed for about 30 minutes and 5 hours, for example between about 1 hour and about 3 hours.

[0267] Sol-gel process is a method for producing solid materials from colloidal solutions. The method is used to make metal oxides, such as ITO and other oxides for antennas described herein. The colloidal solution forms an integrated network of discrete particles or network polymers, which is a colloidal precursor. Typical colloidal precursors include one or more metal oxides and / or metal alcoholates such as indium tin oxide, and may contain silicon oxide such as silicon dioxide. In one embodiment, one or more metal oxides and / or metal alcoholates are based on one or more of the following metals: aluminum; antimony; chromium; cobalt; copper; gallium; germanium; gold; indium; iridium; iron; molybdenum; nickel; palladium; platinum; rhodium; ruthenium, tantalum; tin; titanium; tungsten; silver; zinc; and zirconium.

[0268] The thin film pattern can be applied to the substrate, for example, by inkjet printing, screen printing, spraying using a mask, etc. In some embodiments, the thin film pattern is a localized area on the window substrate, where the area does not have any specific patterning. The localized area has a sufficient size to pattern one or more antennas, such as an antenna assembly, therefrom. After the thin film is heat treated, it is patterned, for example by laser ablation, to form an antenna as described herein.

[0269] Various other deposition processes may be employed. Examples include chemical vapor deposition and physical vapor deposition. These techniques may be used in conjunction with a mask that patterns, for example, the wafer. In one example, a physical deposition or chemical deposition process is used in conjunction with a conventional stripping technique, where the process applies a photoresist to the wafer, and the resist is then patterned to reveal the desired antenna pattern. After deposition, the process strips away the photoresist that is left on the wafer, except in areas where the TCO or other conductor is deposited. Other processes such as inkjet or screen printing may be employed, which may be performed, for example, on the wafer without leaving anything on it, or may be performed on the electrochromic wafer after the wafer has left its coating equipment using, for example, a protective insulating top coating.

[0270] Application of Window Network

[0271] Window antennas can be used in various applications that benefit optically switchable windows and / or associated systems. Examples of such applications include personalized services and wireless network communications.

[0272] For interior building communication nodes / hardware, window antennas can replace some or all of the conventional antennas, such as Wi-Fi antennas, small base stations, internal repeaters, network interfaces, etc. This application of window antennas can improve interior décor by eliminating conventional interior antennas hung on walls / ceilings for internal batteries, computers, and other device connections. In addition, window antennas may eliminate some of the need for cell towers.

[0273] Personalized service

[0274] Typically, the personalized service provides window or antenna conditions that are suitable for specific individuals who use building areas (e.g., rooms and halls). Different individuals may have different associated window parameters. For example, a first individual may prefer a relatively dark room without Wi-Fi service and with security features that block wireless signals from entering or exiting. A second individual may prefer a brighter room with Wi-Fi service. All rooms in a building may have default settings that do not match the preferences of any individual. For example, the default setting may have no Wi-Fi or security service and a window tinting state setting based on the time of day and current weather conditions. By using the personalized service, when an occupant enters an area of ​​the building, the window / antenna system determines that the occupant is present and determines the occupant's personal settings and adjusts the window and / or antenna settings to match the occupant's preferences. Some personalization can be performed by extrapolating the occupant's directional movement (i.e., walking through the building hall to the office) before the occupant arrives at a certain area.

[0275] In one example, a window antenna in a relevant area of ​​a building determines that an occupant has entered or is entering. This determination can be made through communication with the occupant's smartphone or other wireless communication device. Bluetooth is an example of a suitable protocol for communicating between a user and a local window antenna. Other link protocols may be used. In an implementation, the occupant's smartphone (or other device) transmits a user ID that is received by the window antenna. The antenna and network logic then determine the occupant parameters by looking up the occupant parameters in a database or other source of occupant parameters. In another implementation, the occupant's smartphone or other communication device stores the parameters and sends them to the window antenna.

[0276] Examples of personalized services available to residents include any one or more of the following:

[0277] 1. Tinting levels of light-switchable windows near occupants

[0278] 2. Communications shielding / release. For example, an antenna, ground plane, etc. may be placed in a state that blocks electromagnetic communications from passing through a window or other structure containing the antenna, ground plane, etc.

[0279] 3. Notification based on user location by retail application. In some implementations, the building's network determines that a particular customer is located at a particular location in the building. This can be accomplished by detecting communication between the customer's mobile device and an antenna at that location. Based on the user ID transmitted by the antenna, the building / retail logic sends a notification to the user (e.g., via a mobile device application). The notification can contain information about merchandise in the vicinity of the customer and the antenna. Such information can include promotions (e.g., sale prices), merchandise specifications, supplier information, reviews from other customers, reviews from professional reviewers, and the like. The customer can personalize the retail building parameters so that the customer receives some, all, or none of the available information.

[0280] 4. Once an occupant is detected in the vicinity, personalized settings are passed to non-window systems such as thermostats, lighting systems, door locks, etc. through the BMS or other building systems / network. The occupant can personalize such settings to allow settings to be passed to some, all, or none of the non-window settings.

[0281] 5. Wirelessly charge a small device such as a resident's mobile device when a user is detected in the vicinity of a wireless charging circuit, such as an inductive coupling circuit.

[0282] Any one or more of the individual's personalized parameters (e.g., preferred tinting levels and preferred communication shielding) can be stored on a storage device that is part of the window and / or antenna network of the building. In some cases, the storage device is not on the window and / or antenna network of the building, but the device can access the network of the building. For example, the storage device can reside in a remote location with a communication link to the window / antenna network. Examples of remote locations of storage devices include different buildings, publicly available data storage media (e.g., the cloud), central control centers for multiple buildings (e.g., see U.S. Patent Application No. 62 / 088,943, filed on December 8, 2014 and incorporated herein by reference in its entirety), etc. In some embodiments, the individual's personalized parameters are stored locally on the user's mobile device or on a local window or antenna controller (i.e., a controller located at the location of a light-switchable window or window device that can be adjusted by the individual's personalized parameters). In some cases, the individual's mobile device will not store parameters locally, but can access them through a cellular network or other network separated from the window or antenna network of the building. In this case, the parameters can be downloaded to the mobile device as needed, or provided to the local window and / or antenna controller via the mobile device from a remote storage location. Local storage or local access to personalized parameters is useful in situations where a building's window and / or antenna network becomes unavailable (eg, the network connection is temporarily disconnected) and where no network is present in the building.

[0283] The window control network may provide services such as weather services to third parties, including other buildings. Such information may be used by the original building / network to make local shading decisions and by third parties that may not have sensors, weather feeds, etc. The original building may include a window antenna configured to broadcast such information to other buildings. Alternatively or in addition, other buildings may be configured to receive such information from the original building and send the information to the other buildings via the window antenna.

[0284] The window / antenna network can be configured to provide security services, such as detecting an intruder at the perimeter, near, or inside a building if the intruder is carrying a cellular phone or other type of radio. The network can also be configured to detect when any window is tampered with by, for example, detecting changes in current and / or voltage read from an electrochromic window.

[0285] Building-specific personalized services can be used for office sharing, hotel management, and / or seasonal or recurring residential and commercial rental applications. In one example, antennas in a multi-room building determine the location of the visitor at any time and provide the location information to a mobile application that displays a building map on the user's mobile device. The map is updated with the visitor's current location determined by the antenna. In one example, Bluetooth or Bluetooth Low Energy (BTLE) is a protocol that a window antenna uses to communicate with a visitor's mobile device and determine a user ID and provide the current location to the user ID. Such applications may include features that are activated in an emergency, particularly in buildings where there are multiple visitors or students. Disasters such as fires or earthquakes and security events such as hostage or terrorist situations may trigger a mobile application and the antenna activates the map and instructs to evacuate or reach an internal safety location.

[0286] In some embodiments, one or more window antennas can be used to provide Wi-Fi or other services to occupants and / or tenants of a building that have some or all of the window antennas installed. If the occupant / tenant pays for the service, the antenna and associated controller are activated to make the service available. If the occupant / tenant declines the service, the antenna / controller will not be activated for that service. Of course, the antenna / controller can be available and used for other services even when the occupant / tenant declines the service.

[0287] Wireless Communications

[0288] The window network can be wired or wireless. For a wireless window network, antennas transmit and receive communications regarding window tinting status, faults, usage patterns, and the like. Window antennas such as those described herein can be used to transmit and receive the necessary communications. Examples of wireless window network designs are presented in U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 085,179, filed on November 24, 2014 by View, Incorporated, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. In certain embodiments, a wireless window network is provided where power for controlling the windows is provided locally, rather than from a central building power source. For example, where window power comes from a photovoltaic source that receives light through a skylight or other local location, or even from a photovoltaic source mounted on the window, the communications network can be separated from the infrastructure of the power distribution network. In this case, it is cost-effective to use a wireless communication network.

[0289] Commissioning and on-site monitoring

[0290] The commissioning process (automated or non-automated) of a window or IGU (IGU will be used to refer to in this context) may involve reading and transmitting the ID of the IGU and / or its associated window controller. More information on commissioning / configuring an electrochromic window network is set forth in U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 391,122, filed on October 7, 2014, and entitled "APPLICATIONS FOR CONTROLLING OPTICALLY SWITCHABLE DEVICES," the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0291] In some cases, the IGU is identified using communication with an antenna associated with the IGU to be configured. This information is shared over a network, for example, with a network controller and / or other window controllers. The identification process can be a step in generating a map or other directory of all electrochromic windows on the network, as described below. In various embodiments, the IGU identification / configuration process can involve a separate trigger or detection of each IGU controller so that the associated controller of the IGU sends a signal to the network. The signal may include an identification number of the IGU and / or an identification number of a controller associated with the IGU. For example, an installer will install the IGU in a physical location in a building. The IGU will have a chip or memory that contains the IGU ID and certain physical characteristics / parameters of the IGU, etc.

[0292] Triggering may occur through various mechanisms. In one example, some or all IGUs to be debugged include antenna logic associated with an antenna, which is configured to trigger the IGU to send its ID when the antenna receives a communication from a user's mobile device or other user communication device near the IGU. The user can then turn the communication device to debug mode, thereby transmitting a trigger signal to the window antenna within the reception range (for example, all IGUs in the room visited by the user). Since the user or the debugging application associated with the user's mobile device knows where the mobile device is located, the IGU within the reception range can be associated with its physical location. In some embodiments, when communication occurs with the window antenna of the IGU, the user can enter the location of the mobile device. This also allows the IGU within the reception range to be associated with its physical location.

[0293] In one example, a network of electrochromic windows includes 10 windows, with two windows in each of five rooms. After the IGU is physically installed, the user / installer can call the window to identify each IGU and associate it with a physical location in the network. The installer can use an electronic device such as a phone, tablet, computer, etc. to help debug the window. A program on the electronic device (or accessible by the device) may include a list, directory, and / or map of all electrochromic windows on the network. When the installer enters the first room, she can trigger the first electrochromic window by approaching the first electrochromic window, so that the associated window / antenna controller uses the window's (and / or controller's) identification to send a signal through the network. As a result of the signal, the identification of the triggered window may appear on the electronic device. The user can then associate the identification with the physical location of the window it triggered. In an example where a program on an electronic device generates (or otherwise utilizes) a window map, the association can be formed in a graphical user interface (GUI), such as by dragging the triggered identification number to the appropriate position on the map, or by clicking the map in the appropriate position in response to the triggered identification appearing. After the first window is associated with its physical location, the installer can trigger the second window in the first room by approaching the second window (or otherwise directing the emission to its antenna), and thereby associate the identification of the second IGU / controller with its physical location. The process can then be repeated for each other room where the electrochromic window is installed. In some cases, it is sufficient to simply identify the proximity of a room or multiple IGUs. In this case, the emission of an electromagnetic signal from a user device can be received simultaneously by multiple IGUs nearby. Each of them can send its respective ID to the debugger to determine the overall location of the IGU. In some cases, the user moves from one room to the next or from one area to another, and the user's location is known or determined during the movement. Individual IGUs can respond multiple times within the user's transmission range. In this way, individual IGUs can eliminate ambiguity, even if multiple IGUs can respond to the transmission signal from the user device at the same time.

[0294] In another example, each electrochromic IGU may include a beacon that transmits information related to the IGU, such as the identification of the IGU and / or associated controllers. In some cases, Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) beacons may be used. The installer may have a receiver that allows them to read the beacons. Phones and other electronic devices typically have Bluetooth receivers that can be used for this purpose. Any suitable receiver may be used. During commissioning, the installer may read information about the beacons to associate the identification of each IGU / controller with the physical location of the IGU. This association may be accomplished using a map or directory.

[0295] In a similar embodiment, each IGU can be triggered through the network, which may cause a component on the IGU to notify the installer / user that it has been triggered. In one example, each IGU is configured to transmit a specific debug signal (e.g., a specific frequency, a pulse train, etc.) from its window antenna. A signal can be sent through the network to trigger the associated IGU or window controller, which triggers the IGU to transmit its debug signal. The user's device can then identify the associated IGU by receiving the IGU-specific signal. Based on this process and information, the installer / user can associate each IGU / controller with its physical location and identification.

[0296] Fig.14A 1400 is a flow chart depicting a method 1400 of commissioning a network of electrochromic windows, according to certain embodiments. For example, after all IGUs have associated controllers, in operation 1402, a list of all window controller IDs is created. FIG. 14C to FIG. 14E This step is further elaborated. The window controller ID may include multiple individuals that identify factors about each window. This information is stored, for example, in a chip in each window component, such as in a docking device (or wiring harness). In one example, the window ID includes a CAN ID and a LITE ID. The CAN ID may relate to a unique address of a window / window controller on a CAN bus system, while the LITE ID may relate to a unique serial number of an electrochromic IGU and / or its associated window controller. The LITE ID (or other ID used) may also include information about the window such as the size of the window, the nature of the electrochromic device, parameters to be used when transforming the electrochromic device, etc. After the list of window controllers is generated, individual window controllers are triggered in operation 1404. The triggering may occur by any of the methods described herein. The triggering causes the associated window controller to send a signal with the window controller ID. In response, a user or program accessing data transmitted by the IGU over the network may associate the ID of the triggered window controller with the physical location of the window in operation 1406. In Fig.14F and 14G Operations 1404 and 1406 are further described in the context of FIG. 1420. In operation 1420, it is determined whether there are additional windows to be debugged. If there are additional windows to be debugged, the method repeats from operation 1404. When all windows are debugged, the method is complete.

[0297] Fig. 14B A representation of the physical locations of five electrochromic windows installed on the east wall of a building is presented. "LOCID" refers to the location of the associated window, in this case arbitrarily labeled East 1 to East 5. Additional electrochromic windows may also be provided elsewhere in the building. Fig.14A methods, such as FIG. 14C to FIG. 14G As explained in Fig. 14BThe operation is performed on the set of windows shown.

[0298] Fig. 14C It shows that it can be Fig.14A Certain steps are taken during operation 1404 of the embodiment. In this example, the network of electrochromic windows includes a master controller (MC), two or more network controllers (NC1-NC2), and a plurality of network controllers (NC1-NC3). n ) and several window controllers (WC1-WC m ). For clarity, only information related to window controllers operating under the first network controller (NC1) is shown. The dotted lines indicate that there may be many other network controllers and window controllers. First, a user can initiate a command through a user application / program, etc. to cause the window controller to be discovered. The user application / program forwards this command to the master controller. The master controller directs the network controller to discover the window controller, and the network controller directs the window controller to identify itself. In response, the window controllers report their IDs to the network controllers, the network controllers report the window controller IDs to the master controller, and the master controller reports the window controller IDs to the user application / program. The master controller and / or the user application / program can aggregate this information to create a list of all window controllers. The list may include information detailing which window controllers are controlled by each network controller. The list may also be provided as a diagram showing the configuration of all relevant controllers on the network, such as Fig.14D In some cases, Fig.14D The shown network representation may appear on a graphical user interface.

[0299] Fig.14E Depicted are examples of user interface features that may be presented to a user after operation 1404 is completed and a list of window controller IDs is created. Fig.14E In the upper portion of , a map of the associated windows is shown. This map can be created by any available means, and in some cases can be programmed specifically for each installation. After operation 1404, it is still unknown where each window is installed. Therefore, the map does not yet show the CAN ID or LITE ID of any window, but rather has empty fields that will be filled with this information during the commissioning process. Fig.14E At the bottom of the window controller ID, a list of window controller IDs is provided. After operation 1404, all window IDs (CAN ID and LITE ID) are generally known, but they have not yet been associated with their physical location (LOC ID). To this end, Fig.14E The bottom portion of shows the CAN ID and LITE ID populated, while the LOC ID remains empty. A similar list may be provided for each different network controller.

[0300] Fig.14F is presented in more detail according to an embodiment for performing Fig.14A A flowchart of a method of operations 1404 and 1406. Fig.14F , the method begins with operation 1404, in which a user triggers a window controller (by, for example, directing an EM to transmit toward a window antenna of the IGU), causing the window controller to send a window controller ID to its associated network controller. The network controller receives the signal with the window controller ID and sends the window controller ID to the master controller in operation 1410. Next, in operation 1412, the master controller receives the signal with the window controller ID and sends the window controller ID to a user application / program / etc. In operation 1414, the user application / program displays the window controller ID of the triggered window. Next, in operation 1418, the user can associate the window ID of the triggered window with the physical location of the triggered window. In one example, the user drags the window ID displayed in operation 1414 to the physical location of the triggered window represented on the window map. Reference Fig.14E For example, in response to a window controller being triggered, a particular window ID (e.g., CAN ID and LITE ID) may become bold or otherwise prominent in a user application / program. The user may see the bold window ID and then drag it to the appropriate location on the map. Conversely, the user may drag the associated window from the map onto the triggered window ID. Similarly, the user may click on the triggered window ID and click on the associated window from the map to associate the two. Various methods may be used.

[0301] Figure 14G Depicts the window located at East 5 after it has been identified and associated with its associated window ID / location. Fig.14E An exemplary graphical user interface similar to that shown in FIG. Fig. 14B As shown, the window at East 5 has WC1 installed on it. Therefore, the CAN ID (XXXX1) of WC1 and the LITE ID (YYYY1) of WC1 are displayed below the window at East 5. Similarly, Figure 14G As shown in the bottom portion of , the list of window controller IDs now includes the LOC ID of WC1. The triggering and location / ID association steps can be repeated until all windows are identified and associated with their locations within the building. The fact that WC1 is triggered first is selected merely for clarity in the accompanying drawings. The window controllers can be triggered in any order.

[0302] Back to Fig.14F , in operation 1420, it is determined whether there are any additional windows to be debugged. If not, the method is complete. If there are additional windows to be debugged, the method is repeated on different windows, starting at operation 1404.

[0303] Conventional antennas sometimes need to be adjusted or tuned based on changing environmental conditions, which can include seasonal changes in foliage, new construction in urban or residential environments, weather patterns, etc. This adjustment changes the antenna radiation pattern to account for the changing conditions. Additionally, when multiple antennas radiate to the same area, null areas can occur. Careful adjustment of the antenna is required to eliminate nulls.

[0304] For conventional antennas, adjustments are made by physically changing the position and / or orientation of the installed antennas. As described herein, window antennas allow the emitted radiation pattern to be adjusted or tuned by commands from a window controller or control system, which provides appropriate instructions for selecting and powering windows to address current requirements and environmental conditions. Sometimes, a controller selects which antennas are powered and thereby defines a specific pattern or array of active antennas. In another approach, a controller changes the frequency, power, polarization, or other properties of the electrical signal that powers the transmitting antenna.

[0305] This tuning may be associated with the electrochromic window commissioning process. In some methods, when the installer sets up its electrochromic windows, it will commission them to set the optical switching parameters. When the electrochromic window includes the disclosed antenna, the commissioning can take into account the selection and / or power supply characteristics of individual antennas in the windows of the building being commissioned. Calibrate and / or tune the antenna as part of the window as part of the commissioning. In addition, monitoring or periodic commissioning can be performed to take into account changing environmental conditions that may have a strong impact on the emission characteristics of the antenna in the structure. The commissioning and monitoring of buildings containing electrochromic windows are further described in International Patent Application No. PCT / US13 / 36456 filed on April 12, 2013 and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 61 / 974,677 filed on April 3, 2014, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. These applications describe setting and / or adjusting switchable optical window controller settings such as drive voltages to cause optical switching based on local conditions determined during installation and / or later evaluation.

[0306] In some cases, one or more buildings with antennas interact with each other and / or with conventional transmit antennas that transmit signals in the same or overlapping frequency bands. In this example, at least one of the multiple buildings transmits radiation from an antenna on a window of the building. One or more other buildings may transmit through a window or a more conventional cell tower structure.

[0307] Non-windowed web applications

[0308] It is obvious from the foregoing description that the antenna can be designed, assembled and otherwise configured to have various uses depending on the application of the particular antenna. In some applications, one or more of the above antennas can be configured for a repeater or "signal booster" system. In an example repeater implementation, the IGU 202 includes one or more first antennas and one or more second antennas. The first antenna can be configured to receive a signal from an outdoor environment outside the building (or a room in a building). For example, the received signal can be a cellular signal, a wireless wide area network (WWAN) signal, a wireless local area network (WLAN) signal, or a wireless personal area network (WPAN) signal transmitted from a base station, a cellular tower or other broadcast tower, a satellite or a wireless access point or a "hotspot". The second antenna can be configured to transmit the signal to an indoor environment inside the building (or a room in a building). For example, the transmitted signal can be a cellular signal, a WLAN signal, or a WPAN signal. In some such implementations, a controller for the antenna (whether in a window tinting state controller or in a separate antenna controller) can include an amplifier circuit or stage and one or more passive or active hardware or software filtering components or circuits such as an analog filter or a digital filter. In some such implementations, the transmitted signal is an amplified version of the received signal. Additionally, the received signal may be filtered and subjected to various signal processing techniques and processing prior to amplification so that any noise or other unwanted signal components are not amplified in the transmitted signal (or at least not to the extent that the desired frequency components are amplified in the transmitted signal). It should be understood that the signal received from the indoor environment may also be processed and amplified for transmission to the outdoor environment.

[0309] In some applications, one or more of the above antennas may be configured for a protocol converter system. In an example converter implementation, the IGU 202 includes one or more first antennas and one or more second antennas. The first antenna may be configured to receive signals from an outdoor environment according to a first wireless protocol, such as cellular signals, WWAN signals, wireless local area network WLAN signals, or wireless personal area network WPAN signals transmitted from a base station, a cellular tower or other broadcast tower, a satellite or a wireless access point or "hotspot". The second antenna may be configured to transmit signals to an indoor environment inside a building according to a second wireless protocol. For example, the transmitted signal may be a cellular signal, a WLAN signal, or a WPAN signal. In some such implementations, a controller for an antenna (whether in a window tinting state controller or in a separate antenna controller) may include a converter circuit or stage for converting the received signal from a first wireless protocol to a second wireless protocol before transmitting through the second antenna. The controller may also include an amplifier for amplifying the converted signal before transmitting. For example, a cellular signal may be received from an outdoor environment, converted into a Wi-Fi signal, and then transmitted to an indoor environment. It should be understood that signals received from an indoor environment may also be converted for transmission to an outdoor environment.

[0310] In some applications, one or more antennas may be configured to receive broadcast television signals, such as from a broadcast tower or from a satellite. In some such applications, the received television signals may then be rebroadcasted into the room with the same or a different protocol for reception by a set-top box or the television itself. Similarly, one or more antennas may be configured to receive radio signals, such as from a broadcast tower or from a satellite. In some such applications, the received radio signals may then be rebroadcasted into the room with the same or a different protocol for reception by a radio, stereo system, computer, television, or satellite radio.

[0311] In some applications, multiple antennas can be used as broadcasters of cellular signals, television signals, or other broadcast signals. In one such example, some or all of the antennas in some or all of the windows of a large building can be configured to serve as a GSM or DCS cellular broadcast tower for a base station. Such an implementation can eliminate the use of traditional broadcast towers.

[0312] In some applications, a grouping or zone of one or more antennas may be used as a WLAN or WPAN base station, access point, or hotspot. For example, the antenna groupings described above may be used as femtocells (e.g., for 4G and 5G cellular) or picocells. In some such implementations, one or more controllers for the antenna groupings may be connected to a service provider's network via broadband (e.g., DSL or cable). Femtocells allow service providers to extend service coverage indoors or at the "edge of the cell," where access may be limited or unavailable due to infrastructure limitations or attenuation (e.g., blocking of desired signals by building materials or other structures).

[0313] In some applications, one or more of the above antennas can be used for camouflage. For example, one or more antennas within one or more windows of a building can be configured to radiate back a field that cancels reflections from an object, such as another structure in the same building, other buildings, or other structures outside the building.

[0314] In some applications, one or more of the above antennas may be used for a microphone system. For example, the IGU may include one or more acoustic-electric transducers or an array of such transducers on the surface of the sheet. For example, the transducer may be an electromagnetic transducer (such as a MEMS microphone transducer) that converts an acoustic signal into an electrical signal, which may then be received and processed by a window controller or a separate controller. For example, in a speakerphone implementation, the transducer may pick up an acoustic signal from one or more occupants of an adjacent room and convert the acoustic signal into an electrical signal for signal processing by the controller. In some implementations, for example, an unprocessed or processed electrical signal may be wirelessly sent to a device docked with the telephone system for transmission to a third party in a conference call. In addition, in some implementations, the electromagnetic transducer may detect an acoustic signal from background noise, such as noise from an outdoor environment outside the room (whether outdoor or indoor, such as in a hallway or an adjacent room). The electrical signal from the noise may then be processed by a controller or a separate device to remove the frequency components associated with the noise from the frequency components associated with the sounds of the occupants in the room. In some other implementations, users in a building may wear microphones such as wireless headphones that convert audio signals into electrical signals, which are then broadcast and subsequently sensed by antennas in nearby windows. This implementation will also enable users to participate in a conference call without using a phone, even if the user moves in one or more rooms or corridors of the building. For example, a user may also wear headphones or other audio headsets that receive electrical signals emitted from antennas in various nearby windows, and convert these received electrical signals into audio signals representing the voices of other users in the conference call. Such received electrical signals may be received by the telephone system, and then received by the controller and antenna in each nearby window via a wired or wireless connection.

[0315] In some implementations, one or more antennas in one or more windows may also be configured to transmit signals to various speakers in the room. In some implementations, one or more antennas in one or more windows may also be configured to wirelessly power various speakers in the room. In some implementations, one or more antennas in one or more windows may also be configured to wirelessly power various lighting devices in the room. For example, such implementations may provide an "electrodeless lamp" such as one or more fluorescent tubes in or near an IGU or other window structure that produces light when excited by RF emissions emitted from the antenna.

[0316] In some applications, one or more antennas in one or more windows can be configured to transmit and receive radio waves to determine the range, angle or speed of objects outside and / or inside a room or building. More specifically, the antenna can transmit radio waves or microwaves reflected from any object in its path. The same or different antennas in the window receive and process these reflected waves to determine the properties of the object. For example, this radar implementation can be used to map outdoor or indoor environments. This mapping information can be used to better guide the antenna to better receive the signal of interest or to better focus the transmitted signal on the target (such as a typical base station, and focus on other buildings, which themselves can be configured as base stations using this antenna technology). Such radar implementation can also be advantageous for security applications. For example, this type of radar implementation can detect the presence, proximity and even movement of intruders / intruders. In fact, multiple antennas in multiple windows arranged around a building can work together to track the movement of intruders around the building.

[0317] Radar implementations can also be configured to detect weather. For example, weather stations already use the Doppler effect to detect, classify, and predict weather. This type of weather information can be used as another input to a master or network controller to determine shading status and trigger changes to other systems including lighting, HVAC, and even alarm systems.

[0318] Antennas on or in windows may also be used for other identification, personalization, authorization, or security applications. For example, antennas in a room may be used to detect signals from RFID tags, Bluetooth transmitters, or other transmitters worn or otherwise carried by room occupants to determine the identity of the occupants and to determine authorizations, permissions, or security clearances associated with those identities.

[0319] in conclusion

[0320] In one or more aspects, one or more of the described functions may be implemented in hardware, digital electronic circuitry, analog electronic circuitry, computer software, firmware, including structures disclosed in this specification and their structural equivalents, or any combination thereof. Certain implementations of the subject matter described in this document may also be implemented as one or more controllers, computer programs, or physical structures, such as one or more modules of computer program instructions, encoded on a computer storage medium for execution by a window controller, a network controller, and / or an antenna controller or for controlling the operation of the window controller, the network controller, and / or the antenna controller. Any disclosed implementation presented as or for an electrochromic window may be more generally implemented as or for a switchable optical device (including a window, a reflector, etc.).

[0321] Various modifications to the embodiments described in the present disclosure may be apparent to those skilled in the art, and the general principles defined herein may be applied to other implementations without departing from the spirit or scope of the present disclosure. Therefore, the claims are not intended to be limited to the implementations shown herein, but to be consistent with the widest scope consistent with the present disclosure, the principles and novel features disclosed herein. In addition, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the terms "upper" and "lower" are sometimes used for convenience in describing the drawings and indicate relative positions corresponding to the orientation of the drawings on the page in the proper orientation, and may not reflect the proper orientation of the device as implemented.

[0322] Certain features described in this specification in the context of separate implementations may also be implemented in combination in a single implementation. Conversely, various features described in the context of a single implementation may also be implemented separately in multiple implementations or in any suitable subcombination. In addition, although features may be described above as operating in a particular combination, and even initially claimed as such, one or more features from a claimed combination may be removed from the combination in some cases, and a claimed combination may be directed to a subcombination or variation of a subcombination.

[0323] Similarly, in order to achieve the desired result, although the operation is depicted in the accompanying drawings in a specific order, this should not be understood as requiring the operation to be performed in the specific order shown or in a continuous order, or to perform all the illustrated operations. In addition, the accompanying drawings can schematically depict one or more exemplary processes in the form of a flow chart. However, other operations not shown can be incorporated into the schematically illustrated example process. For example, one or more additional operations can be performed before, after, at the same time or between any of the illustrated operations. In some cases, multitasking and parallel processing may be advantageous. In addition, the separation of various system components in the above-mentioned implementation should not be understood as requiring such separation in all implementations, and it should be understood that the program components and systems described can usually be integrated into a single software product or packaged as multiple software products together. In addition, other implementations are also within the scope of the appended claims. In some cases, the actions described in the claims can be performed in different orders and still achieve the desired result.

Claims

1. A building comprising: at least one controller configured to generate control logic for one or more control signals based at least in part on the spatial filtering; one or more transmitters configured to generate a transmit signal based at least in part on the one or more control signals; one or more windows; as well as One or more antennas in or above the one or more windows, the one or more antennas being configured to radiate at least one transmit signal from at least one of the one or more transmitters, wherein the radiated at least one transmit signal has a wavefront based at least in part on the spatial filtering.

2. The building of claim 1, each of the one or more transmitters comprising: (i) a carrier signal generator, the carrier signal generator being configured to generate a carrier signal having a carrier amplitude and a carrier frequency; as well as (ii) a modulator configured to modulate the carrier signal and to provide the at least one transmit signal as an amplitude modulation, a frequency modulation and / or a phase modulation of the carrier signal.

3. The building of claim 2, wherein the modulator is configured to perform code division multiple access (CDMA) modulation of the carrier signal to provide the transmit signal.

4. The building of claim 2 or 3, further comprising one or more receivers configured to demodulate signals received from the one or more antennas.

5. The building according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the at least one controller comprises one or more distributed antenna controllers and at least one master controller.

6. The building of claim 5, wherein the at least one master controller is configured as control logic in communication with a base station controller (BSC).

7. The building of claim 5, wherein the at least one master controller includes control logic at least partially distributed between the master controller and the distributed antenna controllers.

8. The building of any one of claims 1-3, 6 and 7, wherein the at least one controller is configured to control one or more optical states of the one or more windows.

9. The building according to any one of claims 1 to 3, 6 and 7, comprising: one or more receivers configured to receive signals from the one or more antennas, and one or more amplifiers configured to amplify the received signal; The transmit signal is based at least in part on the received signal amplified by the one or more amplifiers.

10. The building of claim 9, wherein the received signal is associated with a first wireless communication protocol, and wherein the building further comprises a plurality of protocol converters for converting the signal received from the first wireless communication protocol to a second wireless communication protocol.

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