Multi-sensor

Abstract

Various implementations generally relate to a multi-sensor device. Some implementations are more particularly directed to a multi-sensor device including a ring of radially oriented photosensors. Some implementations are more particularly directed to a multi-sensor device that is oriented independently with respect to a central axis of the ring. Some implementations of the multi-sensor device described herein also include one or more additional sensors. For example, some implementations include an axially oriented photosensor. Some implementations may also include one or more temperature sensors configured to sense an external temperature, such as an ambient temperature of an outdoor environment around the multi-sensor. Additionally or alternatively, some implementations may include a temperature sensor configured to sense an internal temperature within the multi-sensor device. Particular implementations provide, characterize, or implement a compact form factor. Particular implementations provide, characterize, or implement a multi-sensor device that requires little or no wiring, and in some such examples, requires little or no intrusion, perforation, or reconstruction to a building or other structure on which the multi-sensor device is mounted.

Description

[0001] Divisional Application Information

[0002] This application is a divisional application of the invention patent application with the application date of October 6, 2016, application number 202110511706.4, and invention name “Multi-sensor”. The invention patent application with the application date of October 6, 2016, application number 202110511706.4, and invention name “Multi-sensor” is a divisional application of the invention patent application with the application date of October 6, 2016, application number 201680062708.7, and invention name “Multi-sensor”. Technical Field

[0003] The present disclosure relates generally to sensor devices, and more particularly to orientation independent multi-sensor devices. Background Art

[0004] The development and deployment of smart technologies have increased with considerations of energy efficiency and system integration gain momentum. Optically switchable windows such as electrochromic windows are a promising field of smart technologies. Electrochromism is a phenomenon in which a material shows a reversible electrochemically mediated change in one or more optical properties when it is stimulated to different electronic states. Electrochromic materials and devices made of the materials can be incorporated into windows, for example, for home, commercial or other uses. The color, tinting, transmittance, absorptivity or reflectivity of the electrochromic window can be changed by inducing changes in the electrochromic material, for example, by applying a voltage across the electrochromic material. Such functions can allow control of the intensity of various wavelengths of light that can pass through the window. A relatively recent area of ​​concern is in intelligent control systems and algorithms, which are used to drive optical transitions in optically switchable windows to provide desired lighting conditions while reducing the power consumption of such devices and improving the efficiency of the system to which such devices are integrated. Summary of the invention

[0005] According to one aspect of the present application, a device for operating one or more tintable windows is provided, the device comprising: a power distribution circuit configured to be operably coupled to a tintable window among the one or more tintable windows, the power distribution circuit configured to distribute power to the tintable window; and a voltage regulator configured to (i) receive an initial voltage, (ii) receive an indication of a voltage drop detected along the power distribution circuit, (iii) provide an regulated voltage based on the indication at least in part by modifying the amplitude of the initial voltage, and (iv) provide the regulated voltage to the tintable window.

[0006] According to another aspect of the present application, a method for operating one or more tintable windows is provided, the method comprising: receiving an initial voltage; receiving an indication of a voltage drop detected along a distribution line, wherein the distribution line is configured to be operably coupled to a tintable window among the one or more tintable windows, the distribution line being configured to distribute power to the tintable window; and providing an adjusted voltage based at least in part on the indication and at least in part by changing the amplitude of the initial voltage, the adjusted voltage being provided to the tintable window.

[0007] According to another aspect of the present application, a device for operating one or more tintable windows is provided, the device comprising one or more controllers, the one or more controllers being configured to: be operably coupled to a power distribution line; receive or directly receive an initial voltage; receive or directly receive an indication of a voltage drop detected along the power distribution line, wherein the power distribution line is configured to be operably coupled to a tintable window among the one or more tintable windows, the power distribution line being configured to distribute power to the tintable windows; and provide or directly provide an regulated voltage at least partially based on the indication and at least partially by changing the amplitude of the initial voltage, the regulated voltage being provided to the tintable window.

[0008] According to another aspect of the present application, a non-transitory computer program instruction for operating one or more tintable windows is provided. When read by the one or more processors, the non-transitory computer program instruction causes the one or more processors to perform operations, and the one or more processors are operably coupled to a distribution line. The operations include: receiving or directly receiving an initial voltage; receiving or directly receiving an indication of a voltage drop detected along the distribution line, wherein the distribution line is configured to be operably coupled to a tintable window among the one or more tintable windows, and the distribution line is configured to distribute power to the tintable window; and providing or directly providing an regulated voltage at least partially based on the indication and at least partially by changing the amplitude of the initial voltage, and the regulated voltage is provided to the tintable window. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] Figure 1 A diagrammatic representation of an example multi-sensor device is shown in accordance with some implementations.

[0010] Figure 2 According to some implementations, Figure 1 Diagrammatic representation of an example diffuser used in a multi-sensor setup.

[0011] Figure 3 According to some implementations, Figure 1 Diagrammatic representation of an example housing for use in a multi-sensor device.

[0012] Figure 4 According to some implementations, a light diffusing material is formed and can be Figure 1 Diagrammatic representation of an example housing for use in a multi-sensor device.

[0013] Figure 5 According to some implementations, Figure 1 Diagrammatic representation of an example electrical substrate used in a multi-sensor device.

[0014] Fig. 6A According to some implementations, Figure 5 A diagrammatic representation of a second configuration of an example electrical substrate.

[0015] Figure 6B According to some implementations, Figure 5 and Fig. 6A A second view of a diagrammatic representation of a second configuration of an example electrical substrate.

[0016] Fig. 7A According to some implementations, Figure 3 , Figure 5 and a diagrammatic representation of an assembly of the components of FIG. 6 .

[0017] Figure 7B According to some implementations, Figure 3 , Figure 5 and a second diagrammatic representation of an assembly of the components of FIG. 6 .

[0018] Figure 7C According to some implementations, Figure 3 , Figure 5 and a third diagrammatic representation of an assembly of the components of FIG. 6 .

[0019] Figure 8 According to some implementations, Fig. 7A Components plus Figure 2 Diagrammatic representation of a diffuser.

[0020] Fig. 9 According to some implementations, Figure 1 Diagrammatic representation of an example housing cover for use in a multi-sensor device.

[0021] Fig. 10A -10D shows various corresponding views of a diagrammatic representation of an example multi-sensor device according to some implementations.

[0022] Fig.11A and Fig. 11B A diagram showing a device coupled to a rod according to some implementations Fig. 10A - Corresponding views of an example multi-sensor device of FIG. 10D.

[0023] Fig. 12A A bar graph including bars each indicating a maximum increment based on an orientation of a corresponding multi-sensor device is shown.

[0024] Fig. 12B -12E each show a graph of sensor data changing over time based on the orientation of the corresponding multi-sensor device.

[0025] Fig.13 A circuit schematic diagram illustrating an example circuit capable of receiving sensor data, processing the sensor data, and communicating with an external system.

[0026] Fig.14 A cross-sectional side view of an example electrochromic window is shown according to some implementations.

[0027] Fig.15 Example control distribution according to some implementations is described.

[0028] Fig.16 A block diagram is shown of an example network system operable to control multiple IGUs according to some implementations.

[0029] Fig.17 A block diagram of an example master controller (MC) is shown according to some implementations.

[0030] Fig.18 A block diagram of an example network controller (NC) is shown in accordance with some implementations.

[0031] Fig.19 A circuit schematic of an example window controller (WC) is shown according to some implementations.

[0032] 20 shows a diagram of a light sensor in a mounting configuration attached to a flat circuit board, according to an embodiment.

[0033] Fig.21 A graph showing multiple curves of lux / temperature data obtained over time by peripheral photosensors of a multi-sensor device of an embodiment.

[0034] Like reference numbers and designations in the various drawings indicate like elements. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0035] The following specific embodiments relate to specific example implementations for the purpose of disclosing the subject matter. Although the disclosed implementations are described in sufficient detail to enable a person skilled in the art to practice the disclosed subject matter, the present disclosure is not limited to the specific features of the specific example implementations described herein. On the contrary, the concepts and teachings disclosed herein may be implemented and applied in a variety of different forms and ways without departing from their spirit and scope. For example, although the disclosed implementations focus on electrochromic windows (also referred to as smart windows), some of the systems, devices, and methods disclosed herein may be implemented, applied, or used to incorporate, or simultaneously incorporate other types of optically switchable devices without excessive experimentation. Some other types of optically switchable devices include liquid crystal devices, suspended particle devices, and even micro-shading curtains, etc. For example, some or all of such other optically switchable devices may be powered, driven, or otherwise controlled or integrated with one or more of the disclosed implementations of the controller described herein. In addition, in the following description, the phrases "operable for", "debugged with", "configured with", "designed with", "programmed with", or "capable of" may be used interchangeably when appropriate.

[0036] Introduction to Multisensors

[0037] Various implementations generally relate to multi-sensor devices. Some implementations more specifically relate to multi-sensor devices that include a ring or other suitable geometric (e.g., polygonal) configuration of radially oriented or otherwise outwardly oriented photoelectric sensors. Some implementations more specifically relate to multi-sensor devices that are independently oriented relative to the central axis of the ring. Some implementations of the multi-sensor devices described herein also include one or more additional sensors. For example, some implementations include axially oriented photoelectric sensors. Some implementations may also include one or more temperature sensors that are configured to sense an external temperature, such as an ambient temperature of an outdoor environment surrounding the multi-sensor. Additionally or alternatively, some implementations may include a temperature sensor that is configured to sense an internal temperature within the multi-sensor device. Specific implementations provide, characterize, or implement a compact form factor. Specific implementations provide, characterize, or implement a multi-sensor device that requires little or no wiring, and in some such instances, requires little or no intrusion, perforation, or reconstruction of a building or other structure on which the multi-sensor device may be installed.

[0038] Figure 1A diagrammatic representation of an example multi-sensor device 100 is shown according to some implementations. The multi-sensor device 100 generally includes a housing 102, at least one light diffusing element (or "diffuser") 104, and a cover (or "cover" or "lid") 106. As shown, in some implementations, the housing 102, the diffuser 104, and the cover 106 are rotationally symmetric about an imaginary axis 110 passing through the center of the multi-sensor device 100. The multi-sensor device 100 also includes a plurality of light sensors 112. In some specific implementations, the light sensors 112 are annularly positioned along a ring (e.g., the ring may have a center that coincides with the axis 110 and may define a plane that is orthogonal to the axis 110). In such implementations, the light sensors 112 may be more specifically positioned equidistantly along the circumference of the ring. In some implementations, the multi-sensor device 100 also includes at least one light sensor 114 having an axis oriented parallel to the axis 110 and, in some instances, oriented along and concentric with the axis.

[0039] In some implementations, the multi-sensor device 100 may also include one or more infrared sensors, which are typically located on the top of the multi-sensor device 100 with a sky view. Infrared (IR) sensors detect radiation in the infrared spectrum radiated from any object or medium within its field of view. IR sensors typically have a field of view in the range of about 50 to about 80 degrees. In a specific example, the IR sensor has a field of view of about 70. The amount of IR radiation emitted by the medium / object and captured by the IR sensor varies depending on the temperature of the medium / object, the surface and other physical properties of the medium / object, and the distance from the IR sensor. The IR sensor converts the IR radiation received by the IR sensor in its field of view into an output voltage / current, which is a measure of the amount of IR radiation received and the corresponding temperature of the object / medium in the field of view of the IR sensor. Typically, the IR sensor provides a digital temperature reading. For example, an IR sensor oriented toward the sky outputs a reading of the temperature of the area of ​​the sky in its field of view. The IR sensor may be oriented in a particular geographic direction (north, south, east, west, northeast, northwest, etc.) to preferentially capture IR radiation in that particular geographic region of the sky.

[0040] In one implementation, multiple sensors (e.g., Figure 1 The multi-sensor 100 and Figure 6BThe multi-sensor 500 shown in FIG. 1 , with infrared sensors 115A and 115B, can be used to measure sky temperature using the IR sensor or weather feed data from communications with a weather service to determine whether cloud cover or another weather condition is present. For example, the IR sensor readings can be used to determine a "clear" condition, a "cloudy" condition with intermittent clouds, or an "overcast" condition. Communications with the weather service can be received via cellular communication circuitry, which can also be included in the multi-sensor 100, as described in further detail in FIG. Figure 6B Description. Details of methods for using output from infrared sensors to determine weather conditions are described in PCT application PCT / US15 / 53041, filed on September 29, 2015, and entitled “SUNLIGHT INTENSITY OR CLOUD DETECTION WITH VARIABLE DISTANCE SENSING,” which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

[0041] Although a single infrared sensor may be used, two or more infrared sensors are typically used for redundancy in case one infrared sensor fails and / or is blocked, for example, by bird droppings or other environmental factors. In one case, two or more infrared sensors are used to face different orientations to capture IR radiation from different fields of view and / or at different distances from a building / structure. If two or more IR sensors are located on a multi-sensor, the IR sensors are offset from each other by a distance sufficient to reduce the likelihood that a blocking factor will affect all IR sensors. For example, the IR sensors may be separated by at least about one inch or at least about two inches.

[0042] Some examples of the types of infrared sensors that can be used are thermopiles, infrared radiometers, infrared pyrometers, and infrared pyrometers. Some examples of IR sensors that can be used include semiconductor resistors or diodes, such as long wave IR diodes. One example of an IR sensor that can be used is IR sensor, which is a silicon processed thermopile with a digital temperature measurement output. Each IR sensor is typically designed to measure IR radiation in a specific wavelength range of the IR spectrum, for example, in one case, in a range between about 8 μm and about 14 μm, in one case, in a range between about 10.6 μm and about 12.5 μm, in one case, in a range between about 6.6 μm and about 20 μm. In one example, the IR sensor is a thermistor bolometer that responds to infrared radiation in a wavelength range of 9.5 μm to 11.5 μm. In one example, the IR sensor responds to infrared radiation in a wavelength range of 8 μm to 14 μm. In one example, the IR sensor responds to infrared radiation in a wavelength range of 10.5 μm to 12.5 μm. In one example, the IR sensor responds to infrared radiation in a wavelength range of 6.6 μm to 20 μm.

[0043] exist Figure 1 , multi-sensor device 100 further includes a first infrared sensor 115A and a second infrared sensor 115B located on an upper portion of multi-sensor device 100 positioned behind diffuser 104. First infrared sensor 115A and second infrared sensor 115B may or may not be visible to a human eye from outside multi-sensor device 100. Each of infrared sensors 115A, 115B has an axis parallel to axis 110 and oriented to face outward from a top portion of multi-sensor device 100 to measure a temperature reading based on IR radiation captured from above multi-sensor device 100. First infrared sensor 115A is separated from second infrared sensor 115B by at least about one inch. In certain implementations, multi-sensor device 100 is mounted outside a building or other structure such that first infrared sensor 115A and second infrared sensor 115B are both oriented toward the sky. When oriented toward the sky, first infrared sensor 115A and second infrared sensor 115B may output a sky temperature reading. In one implementation, the multi-sensor device 100 may execute instructions that determine cloud cover or another weather condition from measured sky temperature and / or based on weather feed data from a weather service via communication established through cellular communication circuitry, which may also be included in the multi-sensor 100 depending on the particular implementation. The determined weather conditions may be communicated to other buildings generally nearby via the cellular communication circuitry or another communication device. In another implementation, the readings obtained by the sensors of the multi-sensor device 100 may be provided to a building management system or other buildings generally nearby to facilitate prediction of weather changes, such as changes in cloud cover.

[0044] exist Figure 1In one implementation of the illustrated example shown in , the multi-sensor device 100 is mounted on the exterior of a building or other structure, with the axis 110 of the multi-sensor device pointing vertically upward. In this case, each of the first infrared sensor 115A and the second infrared sensor 115B points vertically upward, and the azimuth orientation of the mounted multi-sensor device 100 is zero and has no effect on the temperature readings from the infrared sensors 115A, 115B that reflect the sky temperature above the building / structure. The azimuth orientation of the multi-sensor device 100 refers to the angle formed between a line pointing from the mounted multi-sensor 100 to due north and a line along the axis 110.

[0045] In another embodiment, the multi-sensor device 100 has a similar Figure 1 One or more infrared sensors of IR sensors 115A and 115B are described, wherein at least one of the sensors is oriented to face in a direction other than straight up. In this case, the azimuth orientation of the infrared sensors determines the geographic direction (north, south, east, west, northeast, northwest, etc.) from which IR radiation is preferentially captured by the IR sensors. For example, the first infrared sensor 115A and the second infrared sensor 115B may be positioned on the multi-sensor device 100 at an angle offset from the axis 110. In one specific example, the infrared sensors may be mounted to a face in an orientation offset by about 11 degrees from the axis 110, the axis being generally at a normal to the top surface of the multi-sensor device 100. Additionally or alternatively, the multi-sensor device 100 may be mounted on the exterior of a building or other structure, wherein the axis 110 of the multi-sensor device is in a direction other than straight up. For example, the installer may have directed the multi-sensor device 100 at an angle for any number of reasons, such as to avoid obstructing a clear sky view of the IR sensors, ease of mounting on an angled surface of an existing fixture, etc. In this example, the azimuth orientation of the multi-sensor device 100, together with any angular offset of the IR sensors from the axis 110, determines the geographic direction (north, south, east, west, northeast, northwest, etc.) of the area of ​​the sky from which IR radiation is preferentially captured by the IR sensors. According to one implementation, an example of such an implementation is described below with respect to Figure 6B Detailed description, a GPS module and associated logic may also be included in the multi-sensor device to determine the latitude and longitude of the location of the multi-sensor device, and also determine the direction in which each IR sensor is oriented to determine the area of ​​the sky from which each IR sensor preferentially captures IR radiation. In this case, the multi-sensor device may adjust the readings from the IR sensors to estimate readings above buildings / structures. Additionally or alternatively, the multi-sensor device may use readings from areas of the sky away from buildings to estimate approximate weather conditions / patterns. Return to Figure 1, also shown are a plurality of radially extending arrows 116. Each of the arrows 116 represents an axis of orientation of a corresponding one of the light sensors 112. Each of the light sensors 112 is depicted with a dashed line indicating that in all implementations the light sensors 112 themselves may or may not be visible to the naked eye of a person from outside the multi-sensor device 100 (as described in more detail below, the light sensors 112 are positioned behind the diffuser 104). Each of the light sensors 112 is oriented along a respective axis of orientation extending radially outward from the center of the ring (along the direction of the corresponding one of the arrows 116). In some implementations, the detection angle of each light sensor 112 is symmetric about the axis of orientation of the light sensor defining a symmetric "cone of view". In some implementations, the detection angle of each light sensor 112 is approximately 180 degrees (meaning an approximately hemispherical detection angle). In some implementations, each of the light sensors 112 has a viewing angle (different from the detection angle) that overlaps the viewing angle of each of two respective immediately adjacent neighboring light sensors 112. As used herein, the viewing angle of a light sensor is defined as the angle defining a viewing cone within which half of the power spectral density of the wavelength of interest is captured by the light sensor. Typically, then, the viewing angle is twice the angle from the axis of orientation to the outer surface of the viewing cone. In some implementations, each of the light sensors 112 is identical to the other light sensors in the light sensors 112, and therefore, the viewing angle of each of the light sensors 112 is substantially the same. In some implementations, the axially-oriented light sensor 114 is of the same type as the light sensor 112. In some other implementations, the viewing angle of the axially-oriented light sensor 114 may be narrower, the same, or wider than the viewing angle of each of the light sensors 112.

[0046] Each of the light sensors 112 (also referred to as light detectors, photosensors, or photodetectors) includes a photosensitive region 113. In some implementations, the photosensitive region 113 of each light sensor 112 includes one or more photodiodes or an array of one or more photodiodes (e.g., each of the light sensors 112 may include a silicon (Si) photodiode). In some implementations, each of the light sensors 112 includes a lens over the photosensitive region 113 of the light sensor. In some implementations, the viewing angle of each of the light sensors 112 is in the range of approximately 30 degrees to approximately 120 degrees. For example, in one particular application, the viewing angle is approximately 100 degrees. In some implementations, the distribution of incident light that may be detected by each of the light sensors 112 is approximately a Gaussian (or "normal") distribution. Assuming that the light detected by each of the light sensors 112 is associated with a Gaussian distribution, half of the power detected by each of the light sensors (-3dB point) is found within a viewing angle cone defined by the viewing angle.

[0047] However, the light signal detected by each of the light sensors 112 may be substantially or approximately flat over a 30 degree angle for practical purposes in some implementations. Thus, the use of twelve (360 / 30=12) light sensors 112 produces, in aggregate, an approximately flat signal around the entire ring of sensors (assuming that the incident light is also uniform around the entire ring of sensors). In other words, the combination of all of the light sensors 112 provides a total viewing angle of 360 degrees. Thus, the use of twelve equally spaced light sensors 112 provides greater orientation independence. That is, the multi-sensor device 100 may be positioned atop the roof of a building or other structure without having to adjust the orientation of the device 100 relative to the north or east axis of a North East Earth (NED) coordinate system.

[0048] The inventors have also found that the use of any more than twelve light sensors does not significantly increase the uniformity in the detection of light around the ring, especially if the diffuser 104 mentioned above and described in more detail below is used. Fig. 12A A bar graph 1200 is shown that includes bars that each indicate a maximum delta based on an optimal orientation and an anti-optimal orientation (relative to axis 110) of a respective multi-sensor device. For example, a first bar 1201 is associated with a multi-sensor device having four equidistantly positioned light sensors; a second bar 1203 is associated with a multi-sensor device having eight equidistantly positioned light sensors; a third bar 1205 is associated with a multi-sensor device having twelve equidistantly positioned light sensors; and a fourth bar 1207 is associated with a multi-sensor device having eighteen equidistantly positioned light sensors. Fig. 12B -12E each show a graph of sensor data versus time based on the orientation of the corresponding multi-sensor device. For example, the first graph (the higher of the two graphs) shows sensor data obtained when optimally oriented (relative to axis 110), while the second graph (the lower of the two graphs) shows sensor data obtained when anti-optimally oriented. For example, Fig. 12B shows a first curve 1211A and a second curve 1211B associated with a multi-sensor device having four equidistantly positioned light sensors; Fig. 12C shows a first curve 1213A and a second curve 1213B associated with a multi-sensor device having eight equidistantly positioned light sensors; Fig.12D shows a first curve 1215A and a second curve 1215B associated with a multi-sensor device having twelve equidistantly positioned light sensors; and Fig.12E A first curve 1217A and a second curve 1217B associated with a multi-sensor device having eighteen equidistantly positioned light sensors are shown.

[0049] Fig.21A graph showing multiple curves of lux / temperature data obtained over time by peripheral photosensors of a multi-sensor device of an embodiment. The left-hand vertical axis is light intensity in lux. The right-hand vertical axis is temperature in milli-degrees C. The red trace is an example of a maximum delta function based on all sensors of the corresponding multi-sensor device.

[0050] In some implementations, each light sensor 112 also includes one or more filters. For example, each light sensor 112 may include a hardware (physical) filter that filters the light incident on the light sensor 112 before it is sensed by the photosensitive area 113. In some implementations, the incident light may be filtered so that the resulting sensor signal output from each of the light sensors 112 simulates, characterizes, or represents a human eye response. In some implementations, each of the light sensors 112 is photo-adaptive in its response to the incident light. In some other implementations, the sensor signal output from each of the light sensors 112 may be electrically filtered, for example, using digital filtering techniques. For example, the multi-sensor device 100 may include a circuit board that includes one or more general-purpose processors or controllers containing digital signal processing blocks or functionality, and / or one or more dedicated processors, such as a digital signal processor (DSP).

[0051] Diffuser 104 is positioned around the periphery of the ring of light sensors 112 to diffuse light incident on the device before it is sensed by the light sensors. For example, diffuser 104 may effectively act as a light integrator that spreads or distributes the incident light more evenly. This configuration reduces the likelihood that any one light sensor 112 will receive the full intensity of a pinpoint reflection or glare (e.g., on a car windshield, metal surface, or mirror). Diffuser 200 may also increase detection of light incident at oblique angles. Figure 2 According to some implementations, Figure 1 10 is a diagrammatic representation of an example diffuser 200 for use in a multi-sensor device 100 of FIG. 10 . In some implementations, the diffuser 200 is a single, unitary structure having a ring shape. For example, the diffuser 200 can have a hollow cylindrical shape having an inner diameter, an outer diameter, and a thickness defined by the inner and outer diameters. In some implementations, the diffuser 200 has a height that includes a field of view of each of the light sensors 112 (the field of view being defined by an angle of view and a distance or spacing between an outer surface of a photosensitive region 113 of a light sensor 112 and an inner surface of the diffuser 200).

[0052] In some other implementations, diffuser 200 may include two or more light diffusing elements that are connected to each other with an adhesive, with some mechanical coupling mechanism, or supported in a suitable position and alignment via housing 300. For example, diffuser 200 may implement diffuser 104. In various implementations, diffuser 200 is formed of a semi-transparent or semi-opaque material that is designed or selected to scatter light incident on diffuser 200 while also allowing a larger portion of the scattered light to enter through diffuser 200. The light that enters through diffuser 200 can then be sensed by light sensors 112 within multi-sensor device 100. As described above, in some implementations, each of light sensors 112 is depicted with a dashed line, which indicates that in all implementations, light sensors 112 themselves may or may not be visible to the naked eye of a person from outside multi-sensor device 100. In some implementations, the light sensor 112 is not observable from outside the multi-sensor device 100 because the view of the light sensor is completely blocked by the diffuser 200. In some other implementations, the light sensor 112 is partially visible through the light sensor 112. In some implementations, the diffuser 200 is formed of plastic or thermoplastics such as nylon or polyamide, as well as other suitable materials. In some other implementations, the diffuser 200 can be formed of a metallic material such as aluminum, cobalt, or titanium, or a semi-metallic material such as alumide. Depending on the material, the diffuser 200 can be 3D printed, injection molded, or formed via other suitable processes.

[0053] Figure 3 According to some implementations, Figure 1 1. A diagrammatic representation of an example housing 300 used in a multi-sensor device 100 of FIG. 1. For example, the housing 300 may implement the housing 102. In some implementations, the diffuser 300 is a single unitary structure including an annular portion 320, a hollow cavity portion 322 defined by an inner surface of the annular portion 320, a bottom portion 324, and a conduit 326 passing through the bottom portion 324. In some other implementations, the annular portion 320 and the bottom portion 324 (or other portions of the housing 300) may be separate parts that are physically connected to each other with an adhesive or with some mechanical coupling mechanism, such as by using threads and threaded connections or via pressure washers. In some implementations, the housing 300 is formed of plastic or thermoplastics such as nylon or polyamide, as well as other suitable materials. In some other implementations, the housing 300 may be formed of a metallic material such as aluminum, cobalt, or titanium, or a semi-metallic material such as alumide. Depending on the materials, housing 300 may be 3D printed, injection molded, or formed via other suitable processes.

[0054] In some implementations, the annular portion 320 includes a plurality of through holes (also referred to as "apertures" 328). For example, in implementations where the annular portion 320 is opaque, the through holes 328 enable the light sensor 112 to receive and sense incident light. In some implementations, the annular portion 320 and the bottom portion 324 also have circular cross-sections when viewed along the axis 110. In some implementations, the bottom portion 324 can extend outwardly in diameter beyond the outer circumference of the annular portion 320. This arrangement can be desirable so that the bottom portion 324 can support a diffuser, such as with reference to FIG. Figure 1 and Figure 2 Diffusers 104 and 200 are shown and described accordingly. Bottom portion 324 may also include post structures 330 that are aligned with electrical substrate 500 described in more detail below. More specifically, post structures 330 of bottom portion 324 protrude through and are aligned with the electrical substrate.

[0055] In some other implementations, the bottom portion 324 can seamlessly extend radially inward and downward from the bottom edge of the annular portion 320 toward a coupling portion (not shown) of the bottom portion 324. For example, in some such implementations, the diffuser 104 (200) and the bottom portion 324 are integrally formed together as a solid, unitary structure. In such implementations, the unitary structure is formed of a light diffusing material, such as the light diffusing material described above for forming the diffuser 200. Figure 4 According to some implementations, a light diffusing material is formed and can be Figure 1 Schematic representation of an example housing 400 used in a multi-sensor device of FIG. In this housing 400 formed of a light diffusing material, a separate diffuser 104 (or 200) is not required. In this housing 400, through-holes 328 are also not required.

[0056] Figure 5 According to some implementations, Figure 1 Schematic representation of an example electrical substrate 500 used in multi-sensor device 100. Electrical substrate 500 includes two T-shaped portions 532 and 534 and a center portion 536. Center portion 536 may include four through holes 538, for example, for alignment with post structure 330 of housing 102 (or 300 or 400). Figure 5536. The bottom surface of the electrical substrate 500 is shown in FIG. 53. In some implementations, the two T-shaped portions 532 and 534 are formed of a flexible material. Copper or other metal or other conductive tracks (not shown) may be printed or otherwise deposited on the T-shaped portions 532 and 534 to couple to tracks or other electrical connections on the center portion 536. The light sensor 112 may be welded to the T-shaped portions 532 and 534 or otherwise physically and electrically connected to the T-shaped portions. In some implementations, the center portion 536 is formed of a rigid material such as FR-4 glass epoxy. In some implementations, the center portion 536 forms a printed circuit board (PCB). For example, the center portion 536 may include two substrates laminated above the materials forming the T-shaped portions 532 and 534. For example, the materials forming the T-shaped portions 532 and 534 may be sandwiched between two substrates to form a center portion 536 having a layered structure. In this manner, conductive traces on T-shaped portions 532 and 534 may electrically couple light sensor 112 to traces or other electrical interconnects on the inner surface of center portion 536. Such traces or other electrical interconnects on the inner surface of center portion 536 may then be coupled to components such as microcontroller 540, digital signal processor (DSP) 542, and network interface 544 such as an Ethernet port.

[0057] In some implementations, the multi-sensor device 100 further includes one or more temperature sensors that are electrically connected to the core 536, and in some instances, are also physically connected to the core 536. In some implementations, the multi-sensor device 100 includes a first temperature sensor that has a thermocouple or a portion that is at least partially outside the housing 300 to sense an external temperature outside the housing 300. In some implementations, the multi-sensor device 100 additionally or alternatively includes a second temperature sensor in the temperature sensor that is at least partially inside the housing 300 to sense an internal temperature within the housing 300.

[0058] Fig. 6A According to some implementations, Figure 5 5 is a diagrammatic representation of a second configuration of an example electrical substrate 500. More specifically, the electrical substrate 500 is in a configuration that is rolled up all around for assembly. That is, the T-shaped portions 532 and 534 can be bent upward, for example, perpendicular to the (more rigid) center portion 536. The arm portions of the T-shaped portions 532 and 534 can then be rolled up to collectively form a ring-like configuration to fit into the housing 300 or 400. Figure 6B According to some implementations, Figure 5 and Fig. 6A A second view of a diagrammatic representation of a second configuration of an example electrical substrate 500. For example, Fig. 6AA first surface of the central portion 536 is shown (the side containing the circuit components and the network interface). Figure 6B A second surface of the central portion 536 is shown (the side containing the axially oriented light sensor 114). Figure 6B The view in FIG. 5 also shows that multi-sensor device 100 further includes first infrared sensor 115A, second infrared sensor 115B, and GPS module 117 located on a second surface of electrical substrate 500. The second surface faces the upper surface of housing 300. Each of first infrared sensor 115A and second infrared sensor 115B is oriented upward relative to the upper surface of multi-sensor device. If multi-sensor device is located outside a building / structure so that the second surface faces the sky, first infrared sensor 115A and second infrared sensor 115B obtain temperature measurements of one or more areas of the sky. First infrared sensor 115A is separated from second infrared sensor 115B by at least about one inch.

[0059] In some implementations, the multi-sensor device also includes a GPS module, such as Figure 6B . The GPS module includes an integrated antenna, or an external antenna separate from the GPS module is included elsewhere in the multi-sensor device. The GPS module may output a signal having the latitude and longitude coordinates of the location of the multi-sensor device to provide geographic context for the readings obtained by the sensors. For example, the clear sky irradiance value at the location of the multi-sensor may be determined using the latitude and longitude coordinates and the time / date using, for example, open source Radiance. Comparison of the clear sky irradiance value with the value obtained by the photosensor of the multi-sensor device may be used to determine weather conditions. Additionally or alternatively, the GPS module of these implementations may output a signal having the orientation of the GPS module, which may be used to determine the orientation of the sensor. The orientation of the IR sensor may be used to determine the area of ​​the sky associated with the temperature reading. Examples of commercial GPS modules are Sierra Wireless, Inc., Richmond, British Columbia, and the like. Provided by the company XM0100 GPS module. The XM0100 GPS module is adapted for use with a separate wireless module and for electrical connection (directly or indirectly) to the interface of the separate wireless module. Another example of a commercial GPS module is the L26 GNSS Module module provided by Quectel Wireless Solutions Co., Ltd. of Shanghai, China. Some commercial GPS modules have dimensions of about 12.2 mm by about 2.4 mm. The GPS module is electrically connected to one or more power supplies available at the multi-sensor device.

[0060] In some implementations, the multi-sensor device includes both a GPS module and a cellular communication circuit. In some cases, the GPS module and the cellular communication circuit can be commercially available as a single small form factor device. An example of a commercial small form factor device having both a GPS module and a cellular communication circuit is the FONA808 Shield-Mini Cellular GSM+GPS from Adafruit Industries LLC of New York, New York, which has dimensions of 69.0 mm x 54.0 mm x 4.0 mm.

[0061] In other implementations, the multi-sensor device includes both a GPS module and a beacon source. In these implementations, the multi-sensor device may or may not also include a cellular communication circuit. The beacon source transmits a beacon signal in the form of, for example, a wi-fi beacon, a low-power Bluetooth (BLE) beacon, a UWB beacon, etc. An example of a beacon source is an antenna, such as a monopole antenna with a parallel ground plane that produces a Bluetooth beacon (IEEE 802.15.1; 2.4–2.485 GHz). The beacon source can be used for debugging and / or geolocation. A method for debugging including the use of a beacon is described in detail in U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 305,892, filed on March 9, 2016 and entitled “METHOD OF COMMISSIONING ELECTOCHROMIC WINDOWS”, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. Methods of using beacons for geolocation are described in detail in U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 379,163, filed on August 24, 2016 and entitled “WINDO WANTENNAS,” which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

[0062] In one implementation, the multi-sensor device has a GPS module and a beacon source that sends beacons with information related to the multi-sensor device, such as an identification code of the multi-sensor device or other information about the multi-sensor device. The installer of the multi-sensor device may have a receiver that allows the multi-sensor device to read the beacon. Phones and other electronic devices typically have a Bluetooth receiver that can be used to read the beacon from a BLE beacon, for example. The installer can use an electronic device to read the information on the beacon to associate the identification code of the multi-sensor device with the geographic coordinates of the physical location for installing the identified multi-sensor device. A map or directory can be used to complete this association. The computing device can then use the electronic device to receive the geographic coordinates of the current location of the multi-sensor device transmitted from the GPS module. The computing device can then be used to provide directions to the installer by comparing the current location of the multi-sensor device from the GPS module with the installation location and / or the signal when the multi-sensor device is in the installation location.

[0063] In one implementation, the multi-sensor device has a beacon source and does not have a GPS module. In this implementation, the beacon source sends a beacon with the geographic coordinates of the installation of the multi-sensor device. The installer can use an electronic device to read the geographic coordinates of the installation from the beacon and the geographic coordinates of the current location of the multi-sensor device transmitted from the GPS module. The computing device can then be used to provide directions to the installer by comparing the current location of the multi-sensor device from the GPS module with the installation location and / or the signal when the multi-sensor device is in the installation location.

[0064] In another implementation, the multi-sensor device has a beacon source that sends a beacon, which can be used to determine the geographic coordinates of the current location of the multi-sensor device. The geographic location of the device can be determined, for example, using the strength of the received beacon signal and / or triangulation calculations. For example, the beacon can be used to locate a multi-sensor device installed on a building, in a storage facility, etc. In one case, a maintenance person can use an electronic device with a receiver to receive the beacon signal and locate the installed multi-sensor device in order to repair or replace the multi-sensor device. In some implementations, the multi-sensor device also includes an optional cooling and / or heating device. An example of this device is a Peltier device that can be operated for cooling or heating. The Peltier device is a solid-state active heat pump that transfers heat from one side of the device to the other side depending on the direction of the current, accompanied by the consumption of electrical energy. When cooling is required, for example on a hot day, the Peltier device can be operated in a cooling mode to cool the communication circuit and / or the beacon circuit to maintain effective operation. In cold weather, such as when snow or sleet may be present and may obscure the IR sensors or photoelectric sensors of the multi-sensor device, the Peltier device may be operated in a heating mode to melt the snow or ice. A commercial Peltier device is the CP60233 manufactured by Digi-Key Electronics of Thief River Falls, Minnesota.

[0065] Fig. 7A According to some implementations, Figure 3 , Figure 5 and a diagrammatic representation of an assembly of the components of FIG. 6 . Figure 7B According to some implementations, Figure 3 , Figure 5 and a second diagrammatic representation of an assembly of the components of FIG. 6 . Figure 7C According to some implementations, Figure 3 , Figure 5 and a third diagrammatic representation of an assembly of the components of Figure 6. For example, Figure 7C A view of the conduit 326 is shown passing through the bottom portion 324 of the housing 300. Also shown is the network interface 544 mounted to the electrical substrate 500. Figure 8 7 plus the components 700 of FIG. 7 according to some implementations. Figure 2 A diagrammatic representation of the assembly 800 of the diffuser 200 . Figure 7C The view in FIG. 1 also shows that the multi-sensor device 100 also includes a temperature sensor 550 located on the bottom surface of the bottom portion 324. The temperature sensor 550 measures the ambient temperature of the external environment. The temperature sensor 550 is located on the bottom surface to be protected from direct solar radiation when located outside. The temperature sensor 550 can be, for example, a thermistor, a thermocouple, a resistance thermometer, a silicon bandgap temperature sensor, etc. Fig. 9According to some implementations, Figure 1 900 is a diagrammatic representation of an example housing cover 900 used in a multi-sensor device. In some implementations, the cover 900 is formed of plastics such as polycarbonate, polyethylene, polypropylene, and / or thermoplastics such as nylon or other polyamides, polyesters or other thermoplastics, and other suitable materials. In some implementations, the material may be a weather-resistant plastic. In some other implementations, the cover 900 may be formed of a metallic material such as aluminum, cobalt, or titanium, or a semi-metallic material such as alumide. In some implementations, the cover 900 may be angled or convex to prevent the accumulation of water. Depending on the material, the cover 900 may be 3D printed, injection molded, or formed via other suitable processes. In some implementations, the cover 900 includes one or more apertures or thin portions (e.g., at an area of ​​the cover above the device) for enabling an axially oriented light sensor 114 to sense light incident on the top surface of the cover 900, for enabling infrared sensors 115A, 115B to measure infrared radiation incident on the top surface of the cover 900, and / or for enabling other devices (e.g., a GPS module or cellular communication circuit) to receive signals proximate to the top surface of the cover 900. Additionally or alternatively, some (e.g., a central area) or all of the cover 900 may be formed of a light diffusing material. In some implementations, the outer surface of the cover 900 surrounding the central area may be coated with a reflective layer to, for example, reduce heating of the device 100. In some implementations, the cover 900 may be connected to the housing 300 via an adhesive or with some mechanical coupling mechanism, such as by using threads and a threaded connection or via a pressure washer or other press-fit connection.

[0066] Fig. 10A 10D shows various corresponding views of a diagrammatic representation of an example multi-sensor device 1000 according to some implementations. Fig.11A and Fig. 11B 1100 is shown coupled to the rod 1100 according to some implementations. Fig. 10A10D . For example, the pole 1100 may serve as a mounting assembly that includes a first portion 1102 for coupling to a bottom portion 324 of a housing. In some implementations, the bottom portion 324 may be fixedly attached or coupled to or coupled with the first portion 1102 of the pole 1200 via a mechanical threaded connection or via compression with a rubber gasket. The pole 1100 may also include a second portion 1104 that is coupled to the first portion 1102 via a mechanical coupler 1106 (which may be part of the first portion 1102). For example, the height of the pole 1100 may be adjusted by sliding the second portion 1104 further into or out of the first portion 1102. The distal end of the second portion 1104 may include a mounting or attachment mechanism 1108 for mounting or attaching the pole 1100 to a building, such as to a surface of a roof of a building, a wall on a roof, or to another structure on a roof or wall.

[0067] Power and communication cables may extend from the building or other structure on which the multi-sensor device 1000 is mounted, through the lumen of the pole 1100, to and through a conduit of the multi-sensor device 1000 (e.g., conduit 326 of the multi-sensor device 100). For example, the cables may include a power cable, a ground cable, and one or more communication cables. As described above, in some implementations, the multi-sensor device 1000 may include an Ethernet port that can couple the multi-sensor device 1000 to an Ethernet-compatible cable to enable coupling to a network controller of a network system. For example, the network interface 544 may be an RJ-45 connector. For example, the network interface 544 can couple the multi-sensor device 1000 to a suitable cable, such as a Category 5, Category 5e, or Category 6 cable. In some implementations, the cable may comply with the 100BASE-T Fast Ethernet standard. In some other implementations, the cable may comply with the 1000BASE-T (also known as IEEE 802.3ab) standard, which implements Gigabit Ethernet via copper wiring. The multi-sensor device 1000 (or 100) can transmit sensor data from some or all of the light sensors (e.g., light sensors 112 and 114), temperature sensors, and other sensors to a main controller or network controller via the network interface 544 and cables for communication, as described below with reference to Fig.16 , Fig.17 as well as Fig.18 In some implementations, the cable can enable the multi-sensor device 1000 to receive power as well as to communicate. For example, the cable can implement Power over Ethernet (POE). In this way, a single cable can be all that is needed to couple the multi-sensor device 1000 to a network system, such as the network system described below with reference to Fig.16In some other implementations, the multi-sensor device may additionally or alternatively include a wireless network interface that enables wireless communication with one or more external controllers, such as a main controller and a network controller, as described below with reference to Fig.16 , Fig.17 as well as Fig.18 describe.

[0068] In some implementations, the sensor data may be processed by a controller, such as a master controller or a network controller, as described below with reference to Fig.16 , Fig.17 as well as Fig.18 The controller may additionally analyze the sensor data, filter the sensor data, and / or store the sensor data in a database, such as described below with reference to Fig.16 , Fig.17 as well as Fig.18 In some implementations, the controller may provide a web server user interface (UI) to a user at a user computing device, for example, via a network socket (e.g., HTML5), and in some instances, via an externally facing data link. The web UI may display sensor data or processed sensor data for each and all of the sensors described above. The web UI may also display configuration and diagnostic information (MAC address, IP address, gateway address, network mask, DNS, DHCP, reboot, NTP, event log, firmware version, firmware upgrade).

[0069] In some implementations, the multi-sensor device 1000 (or 100) may also include a universal serial bus (USB) interface for updating / upgrading firmware, for testing the multi-sensor device 1000 (or 100) or performing diagnostics on the multi-sensor device, or for calibrating the light sensors 112 and 114 or other sensors of the device 100.

[0070] In some implementations, the multi-sensor device 1000 (or 100) may also include a battery within or coupled to the housing (e.g., housing 300) to power sensors and electrical components within the device 1000. The battery may provide such power as an alternative to or in addition to power from a power source (e.g., from a building power source). In some implementations, the multi-sensor device 1000 (or 100) also includes at least one photovoltaic cell, for example, on a surface of the housing. In some other implementations, the multi-sensor device 1000 may be coupled to a photovoltaic cell physically connected to the pole 1100. In some other implementations, the multi-sensor device 1000 may be coupled to a photovoltaic cell on the roof of a building. As described above, in some other implementations, the multi-sensor device 1000 additionally or alternatively includes a wireless network interface that enables wireless communication with one or more external controllers. In such wireless implementations where the multi-sensor device 1000 includes a battery and / or includes or is coupled to a photovoltaic cell, it may not be necessary to pierce the building envelope.

[0071] Fig.13 A circuit diagram of an example circuit 1300 capable of receiving sensor data, processing sensor data, and communicating with an external system is shown. Figure 5 The electrical components on the central portion 536 of the depicted electrical substrate 500 may include the circuit 1300. In some implementations, the circuit 1300 may include a Power over Ethernet (PoE) module 1372 (e.g., AG9703-FL provided by SILVERTEL), a network interface 1374 (e.g., an RJ-45 PoE jack, such as 7499210123 provided by WURTHELECTRONICS, INC.), an Ethernet board 1376 (e.g., DP83848 Ethernet board provided by WAVESHARE), a microcontroller 1378 (e.g., PIC32MX795 provided by MICROCHIP), a receiving and amplifying circuit 1380 (e.g., including one or more operational amplifiers (Op amps) and / or differential amplifiers) for receiving sensor data from the light sensors 112 and 114 and other sensors, a multiplexer (MUX) 1382 (e.g., ADG1606 provided by ANALOG DEVICES), an analog-to-digital converter (ADC) 1384 (e.g., provided by ANALOG DEVICES), and a digital to analog converter (ADC) 1385 (e.g., provided by ANALOG DEVICES). DEVICES) and various other components such as one or more digital or analog filters or other communication interfaces.

[0072] In some implementations, the light sensors 112 and 114 may be calibrated via the circuit 1300. In some such implementations, the circuit 1300 is configured to automatically calibrate the light sensors 112 and 114, for example, on a periodic basis (e.g., daily, weekly, monthly) or in response to instructions from a controller. In some implementations, calibrating the light sensors 112 and 114 may include adjusting a bias voltage of the light sensors to adjust a gain of the light sensors, or adjusting a dynamic range of the light sensors. In some implementations, the circuit 1300 may also be configured to calibrate a temperature sensor. In various implementations, a memory within the circuit 1300 may include one or more lookup tables that store calibration data or settings that are retrieved by the microcontroller 540 and applied to the light sensors or to other electrical components within the circuit 1300.

[0073] In various implementations, the sensor data obtained from the multi-sensor device 100 may be used to determine a tint value of an optically switchable device, such as an electrochromic window. In some implementations, the sensor data obtained from the multi-sensor device 100 may be used for shadow modeling (tree or other building or structure locations) or reflection modeling (e.g., from windows or other reflective surfaces in or on surrounding buildings or structures) of the surrounding environment. In various implementations, the plane defined by the axis of orientation of the light sensor 112 may be oriented horizontally, for example, parallel to a building roof, parallel to the ground, or more generally parallel to a plane tangent to a point on the ground that is co-linear with the axis 110. In some other applications, the plane defined by the axis of orientation of the light sensor 112 may be oriented vertically, for example, orthogonal to a building roof, orthogonal to the ground, or more generally parallel to gravity.

[0074] Example Electrochromic Window Architecture

[0075] Fig.14A cross-sectional side view of an example electrochromic window 1400 according to some implementations is shown. An electrochromic window is an optically switchable window that includes an electrochromic device (ECD) for providing tinting or coloring. The example electrochromic window 1400 may be manufactured, configured, or otherwise provided as an insulating glass unit (IGU) and will also be referred to as IGU 1400 hereinafter. For example, this convention is often used because it is common and because it is desirable to make the IGU serve as an important structure for holding electrochromic panes (also referred to as "window sheets") when provided for installation in a building. The IGU window sheets or panes may be a single substrate or a multi-substrate construction, such as a laminate of two substrates. IGUs, especially those having a double-pane or triple-pane configuration, may provide multiple advantages over a single-pane configuration; for example, a multi-pane configuration may provide enhanced thermal insulation, acoustic insulation, environmental protection, and / or durability when compared to a single-pane configuration. The multi-pane configuration may also provide, for example, increased protection against ECD because the electrochromic film and associated layers and conductive interconnects may be formed on the interior surface of the multi-pane IGU and protected by an inert gas fill in the interior volume 1408 of the IGU.

[0076] Fig.14 More specifically, an example implementation of an IGU 1400 is shown that includes a first pane 1404 having a first surface S1 and a second surface S2. In some implementations, the first surface S1 of the first pane 1404 faces an external environment, such as the outdoors or an external environment. The IGU 1400 also includes a second pane 1406 having a first surface S3 and a second surface S4. In some implementations, the second surface S4 of the second pane 1406 faces an internal environment, such as an internal environment of a home, building, or vehicle, or a room or compartment within a home, building, or vehicle.

[0077] In some implementations, each of the first pane 1404 and the second pane 1406 is transparent or translucent, at least to light in the visible spectrum. For example, each of the panes 1404 and 1406 can be formed of a glass material, and in particular, architectural glass or, for example, silicon oxide (SO x)-based glass material or other anti-shattering glass materials. As a more specific example, each of the first window pane 1404 and the second window pane 1406 may be a soda-lime glass substrate or a float glass substrate. Such a glass substrate may be composed of, for example, approximately 75% silicon dioxide (SiO2) and Na2O, CaO, and a number of small amounts of additives. However, each of the first window pane 1404 and the second window pane 1406 may 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 window pane 1404 and the second window pane 1406 may include other glass materials and plastics, semi-plastics, 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 window pane 1404 and the second window pane 1406 may be enhanced, for example, by tempering, heating, or chemical enhancement.

[0078] Typically, each of the first pane 1404 and the second pane 1406 and the IGU 1400 as a whole are rectangular parallelepiped. However, in some other implementations, other shapes are possible and may be desired (e.g., circular, elliptical, triangular, curved, convex or concave shapes). In some specific implementations, the length "L" of each of the first pane 1404 and the second pane 1406 may be in the range of approximately 20 inches (in.) to approximately 10 feet (ft.), the width "W" of each of the first pane 1404 and the second pane 1406 may be in the range of approximately 20 in. to approximately 10 ft., and the thickness "T" of each of the first pane 1404 and the second pane 1406 may be in the range of approximately 0.3 millimeters (mm) to approximately 10 mm (but other lengths, widths or thicknesses that are smaller or larger are possible and may be desired based on the needs of a particular user, manager, administrator, builder, architect or owner). In instances where the thickness T of the substrate 1404 is less than 3 mm, the substrate is typically laminated to another substrate that is thicker and thus protects the thin substrate 1404. Additionally, while the IGU 1400 includes two panes (1404 and 1406), 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 layered structure of two, three or more layers or sub-panes.

[0079] The first pane 1404 and the second pane 1406 are spaced apart from each other by a spacer 1418, which is typically a frame structure, to form an interior volume 1408. In some implementations, the interior volume is filled with argon (Ar), but in some other implementations, the interior volume 1408 may be filled with another gas, such as another inert gas (e.g., krypton (Kr) or xenon (Xn)), another (non-inert) gas, or a mixture of gases (e.g., air). Filling the interior volume 1408 with a gas such as Ar, Kr, or Xn can reduce heat conduction through the IGU 1400 due to the low thermal conductivity of these gases, as well as improve sound insulation due to the increased atomic weight of the gases. In some other implementations, the interior volume 1408 can be evacuated of air or other gas. The spacer 1418 typically determines the height "C" of the interior volume 1408; that is, the spacing between the first pane 1404 and the second pane 1406. In Fig.14 , the thickness of the ECD, sealant 1420 / 1422, and busbars 1426 / 1428 are not to scale; these components are typically very thin but are exaggerated here only for clarity. In some implementations, the spacing "C" between the first pane 1404 and the second pane 1406 is in the range of approximately 6 mm to approximately 30 mm. The width "D" of the spacer 1418 can be in the range of approximately 5 mm to approximately 15 mm (although other widths are possible and may be desired).

[0080] Although not shown in the cross-sectional view, the spacer 1418 is generally a frame structure formed around each side of the IGU 1400 (e.g., the top side, bottom side, left side, and right side of the IGU 1400). For example, the spacer 1418 can be formed of a foam or plastic material. However, in some other implementations, the spacer can be formed of a metal or other conductive material, for example, a metal tube or channel structure having at least three sides, two sides for sealing to each of the substrates, and one side for supporting and separating the window sheets and as a surface on which the sealant 1424 is applied. The first primary seal 1420 adheres and hermetically seals the spacer 1418 and the second surface S2 of the first pane 1404. The second primary seal 1422 adheres and hermetically seals the spacer 1418 and the first surface S3 of the second pane 1406. In some implementations, each of the primary seals 1420 and 1422 can be formed of an adhesive sealant such as polyisobutylene (PIB). In some implementations, the IGU 1400 also includes a secondary seal 1424 that hermetically seals the border of the entire IGU 1400 around the outside of the spacer 1418. To this end, the spacer 1418 can be inserted a distance "E" from the edge of the first pane 1404 and the second pane 1406. The distance "E" can be in the range of approximately 4 mm to approximately 8 mm (although other distances are possible and can be desirable). In some implementations, the secondary seal 1424 can be formed of an adhesive sealant, such as a polymer material that is waterproof and adds structural support to the assembly, such as silicone, polyurethane, and similar structural sealants that form a watertight seal.

[0081] exist Fig.14In the particular configuration and form factor depicted in , the ECD coated on the surface S2 of the substrate 1404 extends around its entire perimeter to and under the spacer 1418. This configuration is functionally desirable because it protects the edges of the ECD within the primary encapsulant 1420, and it is aesthetically desirable because there is a monolithic ECD within the inner perimeter of the spacer 1418 without any bus bars or scribe lines. Such configurations are described in more detail in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12 / 941,882, filed Nov. 8, 2010, and entitled “ELECTROCHROMIC WINDOW FABRICATION METHODS” (now USP 8,164,818, issued Apr. 24, 2012), U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13 / 456,056, filed Apr. 25, 2012, and entitled “ELECTROCHROMIC WINDOW FABRICATION METHODS”, PCT International Patent Application No. PCT / US2012 / 068817, filed Dec. 10, 2012, and entitled “THIN-FILM DEVICES AND FABRICATION”, and U.S. Patent Application No. 13 / 116,697, filed Jun. 24, 2014, and entitled “THIN-FILM DEVICES AND FABRICATION”. PCT / US2014 / 073081, filed on December 13, 2014, and entitled “THIN-FILM DEVICES AND FABRICATION,” all of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.

[0082] exist Fig.14In the implementation shown in , ECD 1410 is formed on the second surface S2 of the first pane 1404. In some other implementations, ECD 1410 may be formed on another suitable surface, for example, the first surface S1 of the first pane 1404, the first surface S3 of the second pane 1406, or the second surface S4 of the second pane 1406. ECD 1410 includes an electrochromic ("EC") stack 1412, which itself may include one or more layers. For example, EC stack 1412 may include an electrochromic layer, an ion conductive layer, and a counter electrode layer. In some implementations, the electrochromic layer is formed of one or more inorganic solid materials. The electrochromic layer may include one or more of a variety of electrochromic materials or be formed of one or more of a variety of electrochromic materials, the electrochromic material including an electrochemical cathode or electrochemical anode material. For example, a metal oxide suitable for use as an electrochromic layer may include tungsten oxide (WO3) and its doping preparation. In some implementations, the electrochromic layer can have a thickness in a range of approximately 0.05 μm to approximately 1 μm.

[0083] In some implementations, the counter electrode layer is formed of an inorganic solid material. The counter electrode layer may generally include one or more of a variety of materials or material layers that can serve as a reservoir for ions when the EC device 1410 is in, for example, a transparent state. In certain implementations, the counter electrode serves not only as an ion storage layer but also as anode coloring. For example, suitable materials for the counter electrode layer include nickel oxide (NiO) and nickel tungsten oxide (NiWO), as well as doped forms thereof, such as nickel tungsten tantalum oxide, nickel tungsten tin oxide, nickel vanadium oxide, nickel chromium oxide, nickel aluminum oxide, nickel manganese oxide, nickel magnesium oxide, nickel tantalum oxide, nickel tin oxide, as non-limiting examples. In some implementations, the counter electrode layer may have a thickness in the range of approximately 0.05 μm to approximately 1 μm.

[0084] The ion conducting layer serves as a medium through which ions are transported (e.g., in the form of an electrolyte) as the EC stack 1412 transitions between optical states. In some implementations, 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 (electrical short circuiting) 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 1410. In some implementations, the ion conducting layer may have a thickness in the range of approximately 1 nm to approximately 500 nm, more generally in the range of about 5 nm to about 100 nm thickness. In some implementations, the ion conducting layer is also an inorganic solid. For example, the ion conducting layer may be formed of one or more silicates, silicon dioxide (including silicon aluminum oxide), tungsten oxide (including lithium tungstate), tantalum oxide, niobium oxide, lithium oxide, and borates. These materials may also be doped with various dopants, including lithium; for example, lithium-doped silicon oxides including lithium silicon aluminum oxide, lithium phosphorus oxynitride (LiPON), and the like.

[0085] 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, and the ion conductor material is subsequently formed in situ between the electrochromic layer and the counter electrode layer. Further descriptions of suitable devices are found in U.S. Patent No. 8,764,950, filed on July 1, 2014, and entitled "ELECTROCHROMIC DEVICES," and U.S. Patent Application No. 13 / 462,725, filed on May 2, 2012, and entitled "ELECTROCHROMIC DEVICES," each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. In some implementations, the EC stack 1412 may also include one or more additional layers, such as one or more passivation layers. For example, a passivation layer may be used to improve certain optical properties, to provide moisture resistance, or to provide scratch resistance. These or other passivation layers may also be used to hermetically seal the EC stack 1412. Additionally, various layers, including conductive layers (eg, first TCO layer 1414 and second TCO layer 1416 described below), may be treated with anti-reflective or protective oxide or nitride layers.

[0086] The selection or design of the electrochromic material and the counter electrode material generally determines the possible optical transitions. During operation, in response to the voltage generated across the thickness of the EC stack 1412 (e.g., between the first TCO layer 1414 and the second TCO layer 1416), the electrochromic layer transfers ions to the counter electrode layer or exchanges ions from the counter electrode layer to drive the electrochromic layer to the desired optical state. In some implementations, to cause the EC stack 1412 to transition to a transparent state, a positive voltage is applied across the EC stack 1412 (e.g., so that the electrochromic layer is more positive than the counter electrode layer). In some such implementations, in response to the application of a positive voltage, the available ions in the stack reside primarily in the counter electrode layer. When the amplitude of the potential across the EC stack 1412 decreases or when the polarity of the potential is reversed, the ions are transmitted back through the ion-conducting layer to the electrochromic layer, causing the electrochromic material to transition to an opaque state (or to a "more colored," "darker," or "less transparent" state). In contrast, in some other implementations using an electrochromic layer having different properties, a negative voltage may be applied to the electrochromic layer relative to the counter electrode layer to cause the EC stack 1412 to transition to an opaque state. In such implementations, when the magnitude of the potential across the EC stack 1412 decreases or the polarity of the potential reverses, ions are transported back through the ion-conducting layer to the electrochromic layer, causing the electrochromic material to transition to a clear or "bleached" state (or to a "less colored," "lighter," or "more transparent" state).

[0087] In some implementations, transferring ions to or exchanging ions from the counter electrode layer also causes an optical transition in the counter electrode layer. For example, in some implementations, the electrochromic layer and the counter electrode layer are complementary color layers. More specifically, in some such implementations, when or after ions are transferred into the counter electrode layer, the counter electrode layer becomes more transparent, and similarly, when or after ions are transferred out of the electrochromic layer, the electrochromic layer becomes more transparent. On the contrary, when polarity is switched or potential is reduced and ions are transferred from the counter electrode layer to the electrochromic layer, both the counter electrode layer and the electrochromic layer become less transparent.

[0088] In yet another specific example, in response to applying a suitable potential across the thickness of the EC stack 1412, the counter electrode layer transfers all or a portion of the ions it retains to the electrochromic layer, thereby causing an optical transition in the electrochromic layer. In some such implementations, for example, when the counter electrode layer is formed of NiWO, the counter electrode layer also optically transitions with the loss of ions it has transferred to the electrochromic layer. When charge is removed from the counter electrode layer made of NiWO (that is, ions are transferred from the counter electrode layer to the electrochromic layer), the counter electrode layer will transition in the opposite direction.

[0089] Typically, the transition of an electrochromic layer from one optical state to another can be effected by reversible ion insertion (e.g., by intercalation) into the electrochromic material and the corresponding injection of charge-balancing electrons. In some instances, a portion of the ions responsible for the optical transition are irreversibly bound in the electrochromic material. Some or all of the irreversibly bound ions can be used to compensate for "blind charges" in the material. 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. The insertion of 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.

[0090] The following description generally focuses on the coloring transition. An example of a coloring transition is the transition from a transparent (or "translucent", "bleached", or "less colored") state to an opaque (or "fully dark" or "fully colored") state. Another example of a coloring transition is the reverse, i.e., the transition from an opaque state to a transparent state. Other examples of coloring transitions include transitions to and from various intermediate coloring states, e.g., from a less colored, lighter, or more transparent state to a more colored, darker, or less transparent state, and vice versa. Each of such coloring states and the coloring transitions therebetween can be characterized or described by a percentage of light transmission. For example, a coloring transition can be described as a transition from a current percentage of light transmission (%T) to a target %T. Conversely, in some other instances, each of the coloring states and the coloring transitions therebetween can be characterized or described by a percentage of coloring; e.g., a transition from a current percentage of coloring to a target percentage of coloring.

[0091] However, although the following description generally focuses on the coloring state and the coloring transition between the coloring states, in various implementations, other optical states and optical transitions are also achievable. Thus, when appropriate and unless otherwise indicated, references to the coloring state or coloring transition are also intended to include other optical states and optical transitions. In other words, optical states and optical state transitions will also be referred to as coloring states and coloring state transitions herein, respectively, but this is not intended to limit the optical states and state transitions that can be achieved by the IGU 1602. For example, such other optical states and state transitions may include states and state transitions associated with various colors, color intensities (e.g., from light blue to dark blue and vice versa), reflectivity (e.g., from less reflective to more reflective and vice versa), polarization (e.g., from less polarized to more polarized and vice versa), and scattering density (e.g., from less scattering to more scattering and vice versa), etc. Similarly, references to devices, control algorithms, or processes for controlling the coloring state (including causing coloring transitions and maintaining the coloring state) are also intended to include such other optical transitions and optical states. In addition, controlling the voltage, current, or other electrical characteristics supplied to an optically switchable device, and the functions or operations associated with such control, may also be described below as "driving" the device or corresponding IGU, regardless of whether the driving involves a coloring state transition or maintenance of a current coloring state.

[0092] The ECD 1410 generally includes first and second conductive (or "conductive") layers. For example, the ECD 1410 may include a first transparent conductive oxide (TCO) layer 1414 adjacent to a first surface of the EC stack 1412 and a second TCO layer 1416 adjacent to a second surface of the EC stack 1412. In some implementations, the first TCO layer 1414 may be formed on the second surface S2, the EC stack 1412 may be formed on the first TCO layer 1414, and the second TCO layer 1416 may be formed on the EC stack 1412. In some implementations, the first TCO layer 1414 and the second TCO layer 1416 may each be formed of one or more metal oxides including metal oxides doped with one or more metals. For example, some suitable metal oxides and doped metal oxides may 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, among others. Although such materials are referred to as TCOs in this document, the term encompasses transparent and conductive non-oxides as well as oxides, such as certain thin film 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 1414 and the second TCO layer 1416 are substantially transparent at least in the range of wavelengths where electrochromism manifests through the EC stack 1412. In some implementations, the first TCO layer 1414 and the second TCO layer 1416 may each be deposited by a physical vapor deposition (PVD) process including, for example, sputtering. In some implementations, the first TCO layer 1414 and the second TCO layer 1416 may each have a thickness in the range of approximately 0.01 micrometers (μm) to approximately 1 μm. Transparent conductive materials typically have an electronic conductivity that is much greater than the electronic conductivity of the electrochromic material or the counter electrode material.

[0093] The first TCO layer 1414 and the second TCO layer 1416 are used to distribute charge across the respective first and second surfaces of the EC stack 1412 to apply a potential (voltage) across the thickness of the EC stack 1412. For example, a first applied voltage may be applied to a first TCO layer of the TCO layers and a second applied voltage may be applied to a second TCO layer of the TCO layers. In some implementations, the first bus bar 1426 distributes the first applied voltage to the first TCO layer 1414 and the second bus bar 1428 distributes the second applied voltage to the second TCO layer 1416. In some other implementations, one of the first bus bar 1426 and the second bus bar 1428 may ground the respective TCO layer of the first TCO layer 1414 and the second TCO layer 1416. In other implementations, the load may float relative to the two TCO layers. In various implementations, to modify one or more optical properties of the EC stack 1412, and thus cause an optical transition, the controller may alter one or both of the first applied voltage and the second applied voltage to cause a change in one or both of the magnitude and polarity of the effective voltage applied across the EC stack 1412. Ideally, the first TCO layer 1414 and the second TCO layer 1416 serve to evenly distribute charge across the respective surfaces of the EC stack 1412, with a relatively small ohmic potential drop from an outer region of the respective surface to an inner region of the surface. Thus, it is generally desirable to minimize the sheet resistance of the first TCO layer 1414 and the second TCO layer 1416. In other words, it is generally desirable that each of the first TCO layer 1414 and the second TCO layer 1416 act as a substantially equipotential layer across all portions of the respective layer. In this way, the first TCO layer 1414 and the second TCO layer 1416 can evenly apply a potential across the thickness of the EC stack 1412 to achieve a uniform optical transition of the EC stack 1412.

[0094] In some implementations, each of the first busbars 1426 and the second busbars 1428 are printed, patterned, or otherwise formed such that the busbars are oriented along the length of the first pane 1404 along at least one border of the EC stack 1412. For example, each of the first busbars 1426 and the second busbars 1428 can be formed by depositing a conductive ink, such as silver ink, in the form of a straight line. In some implementations, each of the first busbars 1426 and the second busbars 1428 extends along the entire length (or approximately the entire length) of the first pane 1404, and in some implementations, extends along more than one edge of the EC stack 1412.

[0095] In some implementations, the first TCO layer 1414, the EC stack 1412, and the second TCO layer 1416 do not extend to the edge of the first pane 1404. For example, laser edge deletion (LED) or other operations may be used to remove portions of the first TCO layer 1414, the EC stack 1412, and the second TCO layer 1416 so that these layers are separated from or inset by a distance "G" from respective edges of the first pane 1404, which may be in the range of approximately 8 mm to approximately 10 mm (although other distances are possible and may be desirable). Additionally, in some implementations, the EC stack 1412 and the second TCO layer 1416 are removed along an edge portion of one side of the first pane 1404 to enable the first busbar 1426 to be formed on the first TCO layer 1414 to enable conductive coupling between the first busbar 1426 and the first TCO layer 1414. The second busbar 1428 is formed on the second TCO layer 1416 to achieve conductive coupling between the second busbar 1428 and the second TCO layer 1416. In some implementations, the first busbar 1426 and the second busbar 1428 are formed in the region between the spacer 1418 and the first pane 1404, such as Fig.14 For example, each of the first busbar 1426 and the second busbar 1428 may be inset from the inner edge of the spacer 1418 by at least a distance "F", which may be in the range of approximately 2 mm to approximately 3 mm (although other distances are possible and may be desirable). This arrangement may be advantageous for a number of reasons, including, for example, to hide the busbars.

[0096] As mentioned above, the use of the IGU convention is for convenience only. Indeed, in some implementations, the base unit of an electrochromic window may be defined as a pane or substrate of transparent material on which an ECD is formed or otherwise disposed and to which associated electrical connections are coupled (to drive the ECD). Thus, references to an IGU in the following description do not necessarily include reference to an IGU. Fig.14 All components of the IGU 1400 described.

[0097] Example control profile for driving an optical transition

[0098] Fig.15An example control profile 1500 is described according to some implementations. The control profile 1500 can be used to drive a transition in an optically switchable device, such as the ECD 1410 described above. In some implementations, a window controller can be used to generate and apply the control profile 1500 to drive the ECD from a first optical state (e.g., a clear state or a first intermediate state) to a second optical state (e.g., a fully tinted state or a more tinted intermediate state). To drive the ECD in the opposite direction, i.e., from a more tinted state to a less tinted state, the window controller can apply a similar but inverted profile. For example, the control profile for driving the ECD from the second optical state to the first optical state can be Fig.15 . In some other implementations, the control distributions for tinting and lightening may be asymmetric. For example, a transition from a first, more tinted state to a second, less tinted state may require more time than the reverse transition in some instances; that is, more time than the transition from the second, less tinted state to the first, more tinted state. In some other instances, the reverse transition may be true; that is, more time may be required to transition from the second, less tinted state to the first, more tinted state. In other words, with the aid of device architecture and materials, bleaching or lightening is not necessarily just the reverse transition of tinting or tinting. In fact, ECD often behaves differently for each transition due to the different driving forces for ion insertion into and extraction from the electrochromic material.

[0099] In some implementations, control profile 1500 is a voltage control profile implemented by varying the voltage provided to the ECD. Fig.15 The solid line in FIG. 1 represents the effective voltage V applied across the ECD during the color transition and the subsequent sustain period. 有效 In other words, the solid line may represent the voltage V applied to two conductive layers of the ECD (eg, the first TCO layer 1414 and the second TCO layer 1416 of the ECD 1410). 施加1 With V 施加2 The relative difference in . Fig.15 The dashed line in represents the corresponding current density (I) through the device. In the illustrated example, the voltage control profile 1500 includes four phases: a ramp-to-drive phase 1502 to start the transition, a drive phase to continue driving the transition, a ramp-to-hold phase, and a subsequent hold phase.

[0100] The ramp-to-drive phase 1502 is characterized by the application of a voltage ramp that increases the amplitude from an initial value at time t0 to V 驱动In some implementations, the ramp-to-drive phase 1502 may be defined by three drive parameters that are known or set by the window controller: the initial voltage at t0 (the current voltage across the ECD at the start of the transition), V 驱动 The window controller may also set the target ramp rate, the maximum ramp rate, or the type of ramp (e.g., linear ramp, two-stage ramp, or n-stage ramp). In some applications, the ramp rate may be limited to avoid damaging the ECD.

[0101] The driving stage 1504 is driven by a constant voltage V 驱动 The ramp-to-hold phase 1506 is characterized by the application of a voltage ramp that increases the amplitude from the drive value V at time t2 to the drive value V at time t1 and ends at time t2, when the final optical state is reached (or approximately reached). 驱动 decreases to V at time t3 保持 In some implementations, the ramp-to-hold phase 1506 may be defined by three drive parameters that are known or set by the window controller: the drive voltage V 驱动 , maintain voltage V 保持 , and the duration during which the ramp is applied. Additionally or alternatively, the window controller may also set the ramp rate or the type of ramp (eg, a linear ramp, a two-stage ramp, or an n-stage ramp).

[0102] The hold phase 1508 starts at time t3 by applying a constant voltage V 保持 The voltage V 保持 Used to maintain the ECD in the final optical state. Thus, the voltage V 保持 The duration of application of can be consistent with the duration that the ECD will remain in the final optical state. For example, due to non-idealities associated with the ECD, the leakage current I 泄漏 A slow leakage of charge from the ECD may be caused. This leakage of charge causes a corresponding reversal of ions across the ECD and, therefore, a slow reversal of the optical transition. In such applications, a holding voltage V may continue to be applied. 保持 To resist or prevent leakage current. In some other implementations, a holding voltage V may be applied periodically. 保持 To "refresh" the desired optical state, or in other words, bring the ECD back to the desired optical state.

[0103] refer to Fig.15The illustrated and described voltage control profile 1500 is only one example of a voltage control profile suitable for some implementations. However, in such implementations or in various other implementations or applications, many other profiles may be desirable or suitable. These other profiles may also be readily implemented using the controller and optically switchable devices disclosed herein. For example, in some implementations, a current profile may be applied instead of a voltage profile. In some such examples, a profile similar to Fig.15 1502. The control profile of the current density shown in FIG. 1503 may be a current control profile of the current density shown in FIG. 1504. In some other implementations, the control profile may have more than four stages. For example, the voltage control profile may include one or more overdrive stages. In one example implementation, the voltage ramp applied during the first stage 1502 may increase the amplitude beyond the drive voltage V 驱动 And increase to the overdrive voltage V OD In some such implementations, the first phase 1502 may be followed by a ramp phase 1503 during which the applied voltage increases from the overdrive voltage V OD Reduce to the driving voltage V 驱动 In some other such implementations, the overdrive voltage V OD can ramp down back to the drive voltage V 驱动 Previously applied for relatively short duration.

[0104] Additionally, in some implementations, the applied voltage or current profile may be interrupted for a relatively short duration to provide an open circuit condition on the device. While such an open circuit condition is valid, the actual voltage or other electrical characteristic may be measured, detected, or otherwise determined to monitor how long the optical transition has been ongoing, and in some instances, to determine whether a change in the profile is desired. Such an open circuit condition may also be provided during a hold phase to determine whether a hold voltage V should be applied. 保持 Or should the holding voltage V be changed? 保持 Additional information related to driving and monitoring optical transitions is provided in PCT Patent Application No. PCT / US14 / 43514, filed on June 20, 2014, and entitled “CONTROLLINGTRANSITIONS IN OPTICALLY SWITCHABLE DEVICES,” which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

[0105] Example Controller Network Architecture

[0106] In many cases, optically switchable windows may form or occupy a large portion of a building envelope. For example, optically switchable windows may form a large 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 network of controllers may be used to control the optically switchable windows. Fig.16 A block diagram of an example network system 1600 operable to control a plurality of IGUs 1602 according to some implementations is shown. For example, each of the IGUs 1602 may be connected to the network system 1600 described above with reference to FIG. Fig.14 1400. One primary function of the network system 1600 is to control the optical state of the ECD (or other optically switchable device) within the IGU 1602. In various implementations, the network system 1600 may be operable to control the electrical characteristics of the power signal provided to the IGU 1602. For example, the network system 1600 may generate and transmit tinting instructions (also referred to herein as "tinting commands") to control the voltage applied to the ECD within the IGU 1602.

[0107] In some implementations, another function of the network system 1600 is to obtain status information (hereinafter "information" and "data" may be used interchangeably) from the IGU 1602. 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 1600 may also be operable to obtain data from various sensors, such as photoelectric sensors (also referred to herein as photodetectors, light sensors, or light detectors), temperature sensors, humidity sensors, air flow sensors, or occupancy sensors, whether the sensors are integrated on or within the IGU 1602 or located at various other locations in, on, or around the building.

[0108] The network system 1600 may include any suitable number of distributed controllers having various capabilities or functions. In some implementations, the functions and arrangements of the various controllers are defined hierarchically. For example, the network system 1600 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 1608 may communicate with and control tens or hundreds of NCs 1606. In various implementations, the MC 1608 issues high-level instructions to the NCs 1606 via one or more wired or wireless links 1616 (hereinafter collectively referred to as "links 1616"). The instructions may include, for example, shading commands for causing a transition in the optical state of the IGU 1602 controlled by the corresponding NC 1606. Each NC 1606 may then communicate with and control a plurality of WCs 1604 via one or more wired or wireless links 1614 (hereinafter collectively referred to as "links 1614"). For example, each NC 1606 may control tens or hundreds of WCs 1604. Each WC 1604 may in turn communicate with, drive, or otherwise control one or more corresponding IGUs 1602 via one or more wired or wireless links 1612 (hereinafter collectively referred to as "links 1612").

[0109] MC 1608 may issue communications that include shading commands, state request commands, data (e.g., sensor data) request commands, or other instructions. In some implementations, MC 1608 may issue such communications periodically, at certain predefined times of the day (the predefined times may vary based on the day of the week or year), or based on the detection of a particular event, condition, or combination of events or conditions (e.g., as determined by acquired sensor data or based on receiving a request issued by a user or by an application). In some implementations, when MC 1608 determines that a shading state change in a set of one or more IGUs 1602 is caused, MC 1608 generates or selects a shading value corresponding to the desired shading state. In some implementations, the set of IGUs 1602 is associated with a first protocol identifier (ID) (e.g., a BACnet ID). MC 1608 then generates and sends communications, referred to herein as "primary shading commands," via link 1616 over a first communication protocol (e.g., a BACnet-compliant protocol), the communications including the shading value and the first protocol ID. In some implementations, the MC 1608 sends primary shading commands to a specific NC 1606 that controls a specific WC or WCs 1604, which in turn control the set of IGUs 1602 to be transformed.

[0110] In some implementations, NC 1606 receives a primary shading command including a shading value and a 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 WC in WC 1604. NC 1606 then sends a secondary shading command including a shading value to each of the identified WCs 1604 via a second communication protocol via link 1614. In some implementations, each of the WCs 1604 that receive the secondary shading command then selects a voltage or current profile from an internal memory based on the shading value to drive the IGU 1602 to which the WC is correspondingly connected to a shading state consistent with the shading value. Each of the WCs 1604 then generates a voltage or current signal and provides the voltage or current signal to the IGU 1602 to which the WC is correspondingly connected via link 1612 to apply the voltage or current profile.

[0111] In some implementations, various IGUs 1602 may be advantageously grouped into partitions of EC windows, each of which contains a subset of IGUs 1602. In some implementations, each partition of IGUs 1602 is controlled by one or more corresponding NCs 1606 and one or more corresponding WCs 1604 controlled by these NCs 1606. In some more specific implementations, each partition may be controlled by a single NC 1606 and two or more WCs 1604 controlled by the single NC 1606. That is, a partition may represent a logical group of IGUs 1602. For example, each partition may correspond to a collection of IGUs 1602 driven together based on their location in a specific location or area of ​​a building. 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 instructive example, each partition may correspond to a collection of electrochromic windows 1400 on a specific floor and on a specific face among the four faces. Additionally or alternatively, each partition may correspond to a collection of IGUs 1602 that share one or more physical characteristics (e.g., device parameters such as size or age). In some other implementations, the partitions of IGUs 1602 may be grouped based on one or more non-physical characteristics such as security designations or business hierarchies.

[0112] In some such implementations of partitions of IGUs, each NC 1606 may point to all IGUs 1602 in each of one or more corresponding partitions. For example, the MC 1608 may issue a primary shading command to the NC 1606 controlling the target partition. The primary shading command may include an abstract identification of the target partition (also referred to as a "partition ID" hereinafter). In some such implementations, the partition ID may be a first protocol ID, such as the first protocol ID just described in the above example. In such cases, the NC 1606 receives the primary shading command including the shading value and the partition ID and maps the partition ID to a second protocol ID associated with the WC 1604. In some other implementations, the partition ID may be a higher level abstraction than the first protocol ID. In such cases, the NC 1606 may first map the partition ID to one or more first protocol IDs, and then map the first protocol ID to the second protocol ID.

[0113] In some implementations, the MC 1608 is coupled to one or more external-facing networks 1610 (collectively referred to as "external-facing networks 1610") via one or more wired or wireless links 1618 (hereinafter "links 1618"). In some such implementations, the MC 1608 may transmit the acquired status information or sensor data to a remote computer, mobile device, server, database in or accessible by the external-facing network 1610. In some implementations, various applications executing within such remote devices, including third-party applications or cloud-based applications, may access data from or provide data to the MC 1608. In some implementations, an authorized user or application may transmit a request to modify the shading state of various IGUs 1602 to the MC 1608 via the network 1610. In some implementations, the MC 1608 may first determine whether to grant the request (e.g., based on power considerations or based on whether the user has appropriate authorization) before issuing a shading command. The MC 1608 may then calculate, determine, select, or otherwise generate a shading value and send the shading value with a primary shading command to cause a shading state transition in an adjacent IGU 1602 .

[0114] For example, a user may submit such a request from a computing device, such as a desktop computer, a laptop computer, a tablet computer, or a mobile device (e.g., a smartphone). In some such implementations, the user's computing device may execute a client-side application that is capable of communicating with the MC 1608 and, in some instances, with a master controller application executing within the MC 1608. 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 1608, which then communicates with the master controller application to implement the desired tinting state modification. In some implementations, the master 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 the IGU 1602 to be tinted by entering a room number via the client-side application and notifying the MC 1608 of the selection.

[0115] Additionally or alternatively, in some implementations, a user's mobile device or other computing device may communicate wirelessly with various WCs 1604. For example, a client-side application executing within a user's mobile device may send wireless communication content including tinting state control signals to the WC 1604 to control the tinting state of the corresponding IGU 1602 connected to the WC 1604. For example, a user may use a client-side application to maintain or modify the tinting state of an IGU 1602 adjacent to a room occupied by the user (or to be occupied by the user or others at a future time). Such wireless communication content may use various wireless network topologies and protocols (see below). Fig.19 WC 1900 is described in more detail) to generate, format or send.

[0116] In some such implementations, a control signal sent from a user's mobile device (or other computing device) to a corresponding WC 1604 may override a shading value previously received from a corresponding NC 1606 via the WC 1604. In other words, the WC 1604 may provide an applied voltage to the IGU 1602 based on a control signal from the user's computing device rather than based on a shading value. For example, a control algorithm or set of rules stored in and executed by the WC 1604 may provide that one or more control signals from an authorized user's computing device take precedence over shading values ​​received from the NC 1606. In some other instances, such as in high demand situations, a control signal, such as a shading value from the NC 1606, may take precedence over any control signal received from a user's computing device via the WC 1604.

[0117] In some other implementations, based on receiving a control signal from an authorized user's computing device, the MC 1608 may use information about a combination of known parameters to calculate, determine, select, or otherwise generate a shading value that provides a typical user's desired lighting condition, while also taking into account power considerations in some instances. In some other implementations, the MC 1608 may determine the shading value based on a specific user who requests a shading state change through a computing device or preset preferences defined for the user. For example, the user may need to enter a password or otherwise log in or obtain authorization to request a shading state change. In such instances, the MC 1608 may 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, the MC 1608 may then retrieve the user's preset preferences and use the preset preferences alone or in combination with other parameters (e.g., power considerations or information from various sensors) to generate and send shading values ​​for shading the corresponding IGU 1602.

[0118] In some implementations, the MC 1608 is coupled to an external database (or "data store" or "data warehouse") 1620. In some implementations, the database 1620 may be a local database coupled to the MC 1608 via a wired hardware link 1622. In some other implementations, the database 1620 may be a remote database or cloud-based database accessible by the MC 1608 via an internal private network or via an external-facing network 1610. In some implementations, other computing devices, systems, or servers may also access, for example, via the external-facing network 1610 to read the data stored in the database 1620. Additionally, in some implementations, one or more control applications or third-party applications may also access via the external-facing network 1610 to read the data stored in the database. In some cases, the MC 1608 stores a record of all shading commands containing shading values ​​issued by the MC 1608 in the database 1620. The MC 1608 may also collect state and sensor data and store it in the database 1620. In such an example, the WC 1604 may collect sensor data and status data from the IGU 1602 and transmit the sensor data and status data to the corresponding NC 1606 via link 1614 for transmission to the MC 1608 via link 1616. Additionally or alternatively, the NC 1606 or MC 1608 may also be connected to various sensors themselves, such as light, temperature, or occupancy sensors within the building and light or temperature sensors located on, around, or otherwise outside the building (e.g., on the roof of the building). In some implementations, the NC 1606 or WC 1604 may also directly send status or sensor data to the database 1620 for storage.

[0119] In some implementations, the network system 1600 may also be designed to act as an integrated and efficient energy control system for an entire building or building park in combination with a modern heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system, an interior lighting system, a security system, or a power system. Some implementations of the network system 1600 are suitable for integration with a building management system (BMS) 1624. A BMS is broadly a computer-based control system that can be installed in a building to monitor and control the mechanical and electrical equipment of the building, 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 the building according to preferences set by the occupants or by the building manager or other administrator. The software may be based on, for example, an Internet protocol or an open standard. The BMS may be typically used in larger buildings, where the BMS is used to control the environment within the building. For example, the BMS may control lighting, temperature, carbon dioxide levels, and humidity within the building. To control the building environment, the BMS may turn on and off various mechanical and electrical 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 occupants of a building while minimizing heating and cooling energy losses and costs. In some implementations, a BMS may be configured to not only monitor and control, but also optimize synergies between various systems to, for example, save energy and reduce building operating costs.

[0120] Additionally or alternatively, some implementations of the network system 1600 are suitable for integration with smart thermostat services, alarm services (e.g., fire detection), security services, or other appliance automation services. An example of a home automation service is the Nest Home Automation service manufactured by Nest Labs of Palo Alto, California. ( is a registered trademark of Google, Inc. of Mountain View, California.) As used herein, references to a BMS may also include or be replaced by such other automated services in some implementations.

[0121] In some implementations, the MC 1608 and a separate automation service, such as the BMS 1624, may communicate via an application programming interface (API). For example, the API may be executed in conjunction with a master controller application (or platform) within the MC 1608 or in conjunction with a building management application (or platform) within the BMS 1624. The MC 1608 and the BMS 1624 may communicate via one or more wired links 1626 or via an externally facing network 1610. In some instances, the BMS 1624 may transmit instructions for controlling the IGU 1602 to the MC 1608, which then generates and sends the primary shading commands to the appropriate NC 1606. In some implementations, the NC 1606 or WC 1604 may also communicate directly with the BMS 1624 (whether via a wired / hardware link or wirelessly via a wireless data link). In some implementations, the BMS 1624 may also receive data collected by one or more of the MC 1608, the NC 1606, and the WC 1604, such as sensor data, status data, and associated timestamp data. For example, the MC 1608 may publish such data via the network 1610. In some other implementations where such data is stored in the database 1620, the BMS 1624 may access some or all of the data stored in the database 1620.

[0122] Example Main Controller

[0123] Fig.17 17 shows a block diagram of an example master controller (MC) 1700 according to some implementations. For example, Fig.17 The MC1700 can be used to implement the above referenced Fig.16 1600 described herein. As used herein, reference to "MC 1700" also includes MC 1608, and vice versa; in other words, the two designations are used interchangeably. MC 1700 may be implemented in or as one or more computers, computing devices, or computer systems (which are used interchangeably herein when appropriate unless otherwise noted). In addition, reference to "MC 1700" collectively refers to any suitable combination of hardware, firmware, and software for implementing the described functions, operations, processes, or capabilities. For example, MC 1700 may refer to a computer that implements a master controller application (also referred to herein as a "program" or "task").

[0124] like Fig.17As shown in , MC 1700 generally includes one or more processors 1702 (hereinafter also collectively referred to as "processor 1702"). Processor 1702 may be or may include a central processing unit (CPU), such as a single-core or multi-core processor. In some implementations, processor 1702 may additionally include a digital signal processor (DSP) or a network processor. In some implementations, processor 1702 may also include one or more application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs). Processor 1702 is coupled to main memory 1704, auxiliary memory 1706, internal network interface 1708, and external network interface 1710. Main memory 1704 may include one or more high-speed memory devices, such as one or more random access memory (RAM) devices including dynamic RAM (DRAM) devices. Such DRAM devices may include, for example, synchronous DRAM (SDRAM) devices and double data rate SDRAM (DDR SDRAM) devices (including DDR2 SDRAM, DDR3 SDRAM, and DDR4 SDRAM), thyristor RAM (T-RAM), and zero capacitor and other suitable memory devices.

[0125] The secondary storage 1706 may include one or more hard disk drives (HDDs) or one or more solid-state drives (SSDs). In some implementations, the storage 1706 may store processor executable code (or "programming instructions") for implementing a multitasking operating system, such as a computer based on a computer program. In some other implementations, the operating system may be based on or Unix-like operating systems, based on Microsoft 1702 or another suitable operating system. The memory 1706 may also store code that can be executed by the processor 1702 to implement the master controller application described above, as well as code for implementing other applications or programs. The memory 1706 may also store status information, sensor data, or other data collected from the network controller, window controller, and various sensors.

[0126] In some implementations, MC 1700 is a "headless" system; that is, a computer that does not include a display or other user input devices. In some such implementations, an administrator or other authorized user may log into or otherwise access MC 1700 from a remote computer or mobile computing device via a network (e.g., network 1610) to access and retrieve information stored in MC 1700, write or otherwise store data in MC 1700, and control various functions, operations, processes, or parameters implemented or used by MC 1700. In some other implementations, MC 1700 may also include a display and direct user input devices (e.g., one or more of a mouse, keyboard, and touch screen).

[0127] In various implementations, the internal-facing network interface 1708 enables the MC 1700 to communicate with various distributed controllers and, in some implementations, various sensors. The internal-facing network interface 1708 may collectively refer to one or more wired network interfaces or one or more wireless network interfaces (including one or more radio transceivers). Fig.16 In the context of network system 1600 , MC 1700 may implement MC 1608 and internally facing network interface 1708 may enable communication with downstream NC 1606 via link 1616 .

[0128] The external-facing network interface 1710 enables the MC 1700 to communicate with various computers, mobile devices, servers, databases, or cloud-based database systems via one or more networks. The external-facing network interface 1710 may collectively refer to one or more wired network interfaces or one or more wireless network interfaces (including one or more radio transceivers). Fig.16In the context of the network system 1600 of the embodiment of the present invention, the externally facing network interface 1710 can implement communication with various computers, mobile devices, servers, databases, or cloud-based database systems accessible via the externally facing network 1610 via the link 1618. As described above, in some implementations, various applications executed within such remote devices, including third-party applications or cloud-based applications, can access data from the MC 1700 or provide data to the MC or provide data to the database 1620 via the MC 1700. In some implementations, the MC 1700 includes one or more APIs for facilitating communication between the MC 1700 and various third-party applications. Some example implementations of the APIs that the MC 1700 can implement are described in U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 088,943, filed on December 8, 2014 and entitled “MULTIPLE INTERFACING SYSTEMS AT A SITE,” which is hereby incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. For example, such third-party applications may include various monitoring services, including thermostat services, alarm services (e.g., fire detection), security services, or other appliance automation services. Additional examples of monitoring services and systems may be found in PCT patent application PCT / US2015 / 019031, filed on March 5, 2015, and entitled "MONITORING SITES CONTAINING SWITCHABLE OPTICAL DEVICES AND CONTROLLERS," which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety herein.

[0129] MC 1700 may calculate, determine, select, or otherwise generate shading values ​​for one or more IGUs 1602 based on a combination of parameters. For example, the combination of parameters may include time or calendar information, such as the time of day, day of the year, or time of season. Additionally or alternatively, the combination of parameters may include solar calendar information, such as the direction of the sun relative to IGU 1602. In some instances, the direction of the sun relative to IGU 1602 may be determined by MC 1700 based on the time and calendar information together with known information about the geographic location of the building on the earth and the direction the IGU is facing (e.g., in a north-east-earth coordinate system). The combination of parameters may also include the outside temperature (outside the building), the inside temperature (in a room adjacent to the target IGU 1602), or the temperature within the interior volume of the IGU 1602. The combination of parameters may also include information about the weather (e.g., whether it is clear, sunny, overcast, cloudy, rainy, or snowy). Parameters such as the time of day, day of the year, or the direction of the sun may be programmed into MC 1608 and tracked by the MC. Parameters such as the outside temperature, the inside temperature, or the IGU temperature may be obtained from sensors in, on, or around the building or sensors integrated on or within the IGU 1602. Some information about the weather may also be obtained from such sensors. Additionally or alternatively, parameters such as the time of day, day of the year, direction of the sun, or weather may be provided by various applications, including third-party applications, via the network 1610, or determined based on information provided by the various applications. Additional examples of algorithms, routines, modules, or other components for generating tinting values ​​are described in commonly assigned U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13 / 722,969, filed on Feb. 21, 2013, and entitled “CONTROL METHOD FOR TINTABLE WINDOWS,” and in PCT patent application Ser. No. PCT / 2015 / 029675, filed on May 7, 2015, and entitled “CONTROL METHOD FOR TINTABLE WINDOWS,” all of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety herein.

[0130] Example Network Controller

[0131] Fig.18 A block diagram of an example network controller (NC) 1800 is shown according to some implementations. For example, Fig.18 The NC 1800 can be used to implement the above reference Fig.161600. As used herein, reference to "NC 1800" also includes NC 1606, and vice versa; in other words, the two designations are used interchangeably. NC 1800 may be implemented in or as one or more network components, networking devices, computers, computing devices, or computer systems (which are used interchangeably herein when appropriate unless otherwise noted). In addition, reference to "NC 1800" collectively refers to any suitable combination of hardware, firmware, and software for implementing the described functions, operations, processes, or capabilities. For example, NC 1800 may refer to a computer that implements a network controller application (also referred to herein as a "program" or "task").

[0132] like Fig.18 As shown in , NC 1800 generally includes one or more processors 1802 (hereinafter also collectively referred to as "processor 1802"). In some implementations, processor 1802 may be implemented as a microcontroller or as one or more logic devices, including one or more application specific integrated circuits (ASICs) or programmable logic devices (PLDs), such as field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs) or complex programmable logic devices (CPLDs). If implemented in a PLD, the processor may be programmed into the PLD as an intellectual property (IP) block, or permanently formed in the PLD as an embedded processor core. In some other implementations, processor 1802 may be or may include a central processing unit (CPU), such as a single-core or multi-core processor. Processor 1802 is coupled to main memory 1804, auxiliary memory 1806, downstream network interface 1808, and upstream network interface 1810. In some implementations, main memory 1804 may be integrated with processor 1802, for example, as a system on chip (SOC) package, or in embedded memory within the PLD itself. In some other implementations, the NC 1800 may alternatively or additionally include one or more high-speed memory devices, such as one or more RAM devices.

[0133] The auxiliary memory 1806 may include one or more solid state drives (SSDs) storing one or more lookup tables or arrays of values. In some implementations, the auxiliary memory 1806 may store a lookup table that maps a first protocol ID (e.g., a BACnet ID) received from the MC 1700 to a second protocol ID (e.g., a CAN ID) that each identifies a corresponding WC in the WC 1604, and vice versa. In some implementations, the auxiliary memory 1806 may additionally or alternatively store one or more arrays or tables. In some implementations, such arrays or tables may be stored as a comma separated value (CSV) file or in a file format structured via another table. For example, each row in the file may be identified by a timestamp corresponding to a transaction performed with the WC 1604. Each row may include a shading value (C) of an IGU 1602 controlled by WC 1604 (e.g., as set in a primary shading command by MC 1700); a state value (S) of an IGU 1602 controlled by WC 1604; a setpoint voltage (e.g., an effective applied voltage V 有效 ); the actual voltage level V across the ECD within the IGU 1602 as measured, detected, or otherwise determined 实际 ; The actual current level I through the ECD within the IGU 1602 measured, detected or otherwise determined 实际 ; and various sensor data. In some implementations, each row in the CSV file may contain such status information for each and all of the WCs 1604 controlled by the NC 1800. In some such implementations, each row also contains a CAN ID or other ID associated with each of the corresponding WCs 1604.

[0134] In some implementations where the NC 1800 is implemented in a computer executing a network controller application, the secondary memory 1806 may also store processor executable code (or "programming instructions") for implementing a multi-tasking operating system, such as a In some other implementations, the operating system may be based on or Unix-like operating systems, based on Microsoft The memory 1806 may also store code that can be executed by the processor 1802 to implement the network controller application described above, as well as code for implementing other applications or programs.

[0135] In various implementations, the downstream network interface 1808 enables the NC 1800 to communicate with the distributed WC 1604 and, in some implementations, with various sensors. Fig.16In the context of the network system 1600 of FIG. 1600, the NC 1800 may implement the NC 1606 and the downstream network interface 1808 may implement communication with the WC 1604 via the link 1614. The downstream network interface 1808 may collectively refer to one or more wired network interfaces or one or more wireless network interfaces (including one or more radio transceivers). In some implementations, the downstream interface 1808 may include a CANbus interface, which enables the NC 1800 to distribute commands, requests or other instructions to various WCs 1604 according to the CANBus protocol (e.g., via the CANopen communication protocol) and to receive responses including status information from the WC 1604. In some implementations, a single CANbus interface may implement communication between the NC 1800 and tens, hundreds or thousands of WCs 1604. Additionally or alternatively, the downstream interface 1808 may include one or more universal serial bus (USB) interfaces (or "ports"). In some such implementations, to enable communication via the CANbus communication protocol, a USB to CAN adapter may be used to couple a USB port of the downstream interface 1808 with a CANbus compatible cable. In some such implementations, to enable the NC 1800 to control even more WCs 1604, a USB hub (e.g., having 2, 3, 4, 5, 10, or more hub ports) may be plugged into a USB port of the downstream interface 508. The USB to CAN adapter may then be plugged into each hub port of the USB hub.

[0136] The upstream network interface 1810 enables the NC 1800 to communicate with the MC 1700 and, in some implementations, various other computers, servers, or databases (including the database 1620). The upstream network interface 1810 may also collectively refer to one or more wired network interfaces or one or more wireless network interfaces (including one or more radio transceivers). Fig.16 In the context of the network system 1600 of FIG. 1600, the upstream network interface 1810 can enable communication with the MC 1608 via the link 1618. In some implementations, the upstream network interface 1810 can also be coupled to communicate with applications, including third-party applications and cloud-based applications, via the external-facing network 1610. For example, in an implementation where the NC 1800 is implemented as a network controller application that executes as a task within a computer, the network controller application can communicate directly with the external-facing network 1610 via the operating system and the upstream network interface 1810.

[0137] In some implementations, the NC 1800 acts as a server that collects and stores status data, sensor data, or other data acquired from the WC 1604 or the multi-sensor device 100, and publishes this acquired data so that it can be accessed by the MC 1700. In some implementations, the NC 1800 can also publish this acquired data directly via the network 1610; that is, without first passing the data to the MC 1700. The NC 1800 also functions like a router in some respects. For example, the NC 1800 can act as a BACnet to CANBus gateway, receiving communications sent from the MC 1700 according to the BACnet protocol, converting commands or messages from the BACnet protocol to the CANBus protocol (e.g., the CANopen communication protocol), and distributing commands or other instructions to various WCs 1604 according to the CANBus protocol.

[0138] As mentioned above Fig.17 As described above, when the MC 1700 determines to color one or more IGUs 1602, the MC 1700 may write a specific coloring value to an AV associated with one or more corresponding WCs 1604 of the target IGU 1602 in the NC 1800. In some implementations, to do so, the MC 1700 generates a primary coloring command communication content, including a BACnet ID associated with the WC 1604 of the target IGU 1602. The primary coloring command may also include the coloring value of the target IGU 1602. The MC 1700 may use a network address such as an IP address or a MAC address to direct the transmission of the primary coloring command to the NC 1800. In response to receiving this primary shading command from MC 1700 via upstream interface 1810, NC 1800 may unpack the communications content, map the BACnet ID (or other first protocol ID) in the primary shading command to one or more CAN IDs (or other second protocol IDs), and write the shading value from the primary shading command to the first AV in the corresponding AVs associated with each of the CAN IDs.

[0139] In some implementations, the NC 1800 then generates a secondary shading command for each of the WCs 1604 identified by the CAN ID. Each secondary shading command may be sent to a corresponding WC in the WCs 1604 via the corresponding CAN ID. Each secondary shading command may also include a shading value extracted from the primary shading command. The NC 1800 sends the secondary shading command to the target WC 1604 via a second communication protocol (e.g., via a CANOpen protocol) through a downstream interface 1808. In some implementations, when the WC 1604 receives the secondary shading command, the WC 1604 sends a state value indicating the state of the WC 1604 back to the NC 1800. For example, the shading state value may represent a "shading state" or "transition state" indicating that the WC is in the process of shading the target IGU 1602, an "active" or "completed" state indicating that the target IGU 1602 is at a target shading state or the transition has been completed, or an "error state" indicating an error. After the status values ​​have been stored in the NC 1800, the NC 1800 may publish the status information or otherwise make the status information accessible to the MC 1700 or various other authorized computers or applications. In some other implementations, the MC 1700 may request status information for a specific WC 1604 from the NC 1800 based on intelligence, scheduling measurements, or user overrides. For example, the intelligence may be within the MC 1700 or within the BMS. The scheduling policy may be stored in the MC 1700, in another storage location within the network system 1600, or within a cloud-based system.

[0140] Sample Window Controller

[0141] Fig.19 1 shows a circuit diagram of an example window controller (WC) 1900 according to some implementations. For example, Fig.19 The WC 1900 can be used to implement the above reference Fig.16 Each of the WCs 1604 described in the network system 1600 of FIG. As used herein, reference to "WC 1900" also includes WC 1604, and vice versa; in other words, the two terms are used interchangeably. As described above, WC 1900 is generally operable to and adapted to drive, for example, the network system 1600 described above. Fig.14 In some implementations, one or more ECDs coupled to WC 1900 are configured in a corresponding IGU 1902 (e.g., as described above with reference to FIG. 14A ). Fig.14The WC 1900 is also operable to communicate with a coupled IGU 1902, for example, to read data from or pass data to the IGU 1902.

[0142] WC 1900 broadly includes a processing unit 1904, a power circuit 1906, a driver circuit 1908, and a feedback circuit 1910 (each of which is depicted with heavy dashed lines and gray shading). In the illustrated implementation, WC 1900 additionally includes a communication circuit 1912. Each of the driver circuit 1906, the power circuit 1906, the feedback circuit 1910, and the communication circuit 1912 may include multiple separate circuit components, including integrated circuits (ICs). Each of the various components described in more detail below may be described as "a portion" of a corresponding circuit in the aforementioned circuits 1906, 1908, 1910, and 1912. However, the grouping of components into corresponding circuits in the circuits 1906, 1908, 1910, and 1912 is merely nominal and for the purpose of convenience to facilitate the disclosure of the described implementation. Thus, the functionality, capabilities, and limitations of the various described components are not intended to be defined by the corresponding groupings; rather, the functionality, capabilities, and limitations of each of the individual components are defined solely by those components themselves and by the integration of the components with other components to which they are electrically connected or coupled.

[0143] In some implementations, WC 1900 includes a first upstream interface (or set of interfaces) 1914 for coupling to an upstream cable set 1916. For example, upstream cable set 1916 may implement the Fig.161614 described with reference to the network system 1600 of FIG. 1600. In some implementations, the upstream cable set 1916 includes at least four lines: two power distribution lines and two communication lines. In some five-line implementations, the upstream cable set 1916 additionally includes a system ground line, such as a building ground or earth ground (an absolute ground from which all other voltages in the building can be measured for practical purposes). The upstream interface 1914 may include a plurality of corresponding pins (not shown), one pin coupling each of the lines in the upstream cable set 1916 into the WC 1900. For example, a first pin of the pins may couple a first distribution line from the distribution lines of the upstream cable set 1916 to a first power line 1922 within the WC 1900. A second pin of the pins may couple a second distribution line (e.g., a power return) from the distribution lines of the upstream cable set 1916 to a second power line 1924 within the WC 1900. A third of the pins may couple a first of the communication lines from the upstream cable set 1916 to a first communication line 1926 within the WC 1900. A fourth of the pins may couple a second of the communication lines from the upstream cable set 1916 to a second communication line 1928 within the WC 1900. In an implementation that includes a system ground line, a fifth of the pins may couple a system ground line from the upstream cable set 1916 to a system ground line 1930 within the WC 1900.

[0144] The two power distribution lines in the upstream cable set 1916 can be implemented as two separate cables or configured together as, for example, a twisted pair cable. The first power line in the power lines carries a first power supply voltage V 电源1 And the second power line in the power line is a power return. In some implementations, the first power supply voltage V 电源1 is a DC voltage having a value in the range of approximately 5 volts (V) to 42 V, and in one example application, has a value of 24 V (although higher voltages may be desirable and possible in other implementations). In some other implementations, the first supply voltage V 电源1 It can be a pulse voltage power signal. The second power line in the power line can be a power return, also known as a signal ground (or "common ground"). In other words, the voltage V on the second power line in the power line 电源2 It can be a reference voltage, for example, a floating ground. In such an implementation, at the first power supply voltage V 电源1 The second power supply voltage V 电源2 The voltage difference between them is the voltage of interest, not the individual voltages V 电源1 and V 电源2 The actual value relative to system ground. For example, V 电源1 With V电源2 The difference between may be in the range of approximately 5 V to 42 V, and in one example application may be 24 V. In implementations that include a system ground line, the system ground line may be implemented as a single cable or configured as a 3-wire cable with the two power distribution lines described above.

[0145] The two communication lines in the upstream cable set 1916 may also be implemented as two separate cables or configured together as a twisted pair cable. In some other implementations, the two communication lines may be bundled with the two power distribution lines just described as a 4-wire cable, or bundled with the two power distribution lines and the system ground line as a 5-wire cable. As described above, the pins or other interconnects within the upstream interface 1914 electrically connect the first and second communication lines in the upstream cable set 1916 with the first and second communication lines 1926 and 1928 in the WC 1900. The first communication line 1926 and the second communication line 1928, also collectively referred to herein as a communication bus 1932, may carry a first data signal Data 1 and a second data signal Data 2, respectively.

[0146] At different times or stages throughout the transition cycle or at other times, the data signals Data 1 and Data 2 may communicate information from an upstream network controller (e.g., NC 1606 or NC 400) to WC 1900, or from WC 1900 to a network controller. As an example of downstream communication, the data signals Data 1 and Data 2 may include shading commands or other instructions (e.g., the secondary shading commands described above) sent from the network controller to WC 1900. As an example of upstream communication, the data signals Data 1 and Data 2 may include state information (e.g., current shading state) or sensor data to be sent to the network controller. In some implementations, the Data 1 and Data 2 signals are complementary signals, e.g., forming a differential signal pair (also collectively referred to herein as differential signals).

[0147] In some implementations, the communication bus 1932 is designed, deployed, and otherwise configured according to the controller area network (CAN) vehicle bus standard. In terms of the open system interconnection (OSI) model, the physical (PHY) layer can be implemented according to the ISO11898-2CAN standard, and the data link layer can be implemented according to the ISO 11898-1CAN standard. In some such implementations, the first data signal data 1 can refer to a high CAN signal ("CANH signal", because it is often mentioned in the CAN protocol), and the second data signal data 2 can refer to a low CAN signal ("CANL signal"). In some implementations, the WC 1900 communicates with the upstream network controller via the communication bus 1932 (and the coupled communication lines in the upstream cable set 1916) according to the CANopen communication protocol. In terms of the OSI model, the CANopen communication protocol implements the network layer and other layers above the network layer (e.g., the transport layer, the session layer, the presentation layer, and the application layer). According to the CAN protocol, the difference between the CANH and CANL signal values ​​determines the bit value transmitted by the differential pair.

[0148] In some implementations, the upstream cable set 1916 is directly connected to the upstream network controller. In some other implementations, the upstream cable set 1916 includes a set of branches connected to a trunk (e.g., tapped from the trunk) that includes corresponding distribution lines and communication lines. In some such latter implementations, each of the multiple WCs 1900 can be connected to the same trunk via a set of corresponding branches. In some such implementations, each of the multiple WCs 1900 coupled to the same trunk can communicate with the same network controller via communication lines within the trunk. In some implementations, the distribution lines that power the WCs 1900 can also be coupled to the same network controller to power the network controller. In some other implementations, different sets of distribution lines can power the network controller. In either case, the distribution lines that power the WCs 1900 can terminate at an electric control panel or other electric power insertion point.

[0149] WC 1900 also includes a second downstream interface (or set of interfaces) 1918 for coupling to a downstream cable set 1920. For example, the downstream cable set 1920 may implement the Fig.161900. In some implementations, the downstream cable set 1920 also includes at least four lines: two power distribution lines and two communication lines. The downstream interface 1918 may also include a plurality of corresponding pins (not shown), one pin coupling each of the lines in the downstream cable set 1920 to the WC 1900. For example, a first pin in the pins may couple a first power distribution line 1933 in the power distribution lines from the downstream cable set 1920 to a first power drive line 1934 in the WC 1900. A second pin in the pins may couple a second power distribution line 1935 in the power distribution lines from the downstream cable set 1920 to a second power drive line 1936 in the WC 1900. A third pin in the pins may couple a first communication line 1937 in the communication lines from the downstream cable set 1920 to a first communication line 1938 in the WC 1900. A fourth of the pins may couple a second of the communication lines 1939 from the downstream cable set 1920 to a second communication line 1940 within the WC 1900. In an implementation that includes a fifth line, a fifth of the pins may couple a fifth line 1941 from the downstream cable set 1920 to a fifth line 1942 within the WC 1900.

[0150] The two power distribution lines 1933 and 1935 in the downstream cable set 1920 can be implemented as two separate cables or configured together as, for example, a twisted pair cable. In some implementations, the first power distribution line 1933 carries a first applied voltage V 施加1 The second power distribution line 1935 carries a second applied voltage V 施加2 In some implementations, for all intents and purposes, the first applied voltage V 施加1 and the second applied voltage V 施加2 is a DC voltage signal. In some other implementations, the first applied voltage V 施加1 and the second applied voltage V 施加2 It can be a pulse voltage signal (for example, a pulse width modulated (PWM) signal). In some implementations, the first applied voltage V 施加1 may have a value in the range of approximately 0 V to 10 V, and in some specific applications, has a value in the range of approximately 0 V to 5 V. In some implementations, the second applied voltage V 施加2 10V, and in some specific applications, has a value in the range of approximately 0V to -5V. In some other implementations, the second distribution line 1935 in the downstream cable assembly 1920 may be a power return, also known as a signal ground or a common ground. In other words, the voltage V on the second distribution line is 施加2 Can be a reference voltage, for example, a floating ground.

[0151] The first power distribution line 1933 and the second power distribution line 1935 in the downstream cable assembly 1920 are provided to each of the one or more IGUs 1902 controlled by the WC 1900. More specifically, the first power distribution line 1933 and the second power distribution line 1935 are electrically connected to the busbars and conductive layers (e.g., Fig.14 In some implementations, at a first applied voltage V 施加1 With the second applied voltage V 施加2 The voltage difference between them is the voltage of interest, not the individual voltages V 施加1 and V 施加2 The actual value relative to system ground. For example, V 施加1 With V 施加2 The difference between the two is referred to in this article as the “effective applied voltage” V 有效 Or simply referred to as applied voltage V 有效 , depending on various device parameters and drive parameters, may be in the range of approximately -10V to 10V in some applications, and in the range of approximately -5V to 5V in some specific applications.

[0152] The two communication lines 1937 and 1939 in the downstream cable set 1920 may also be implemented as two separate cables or configured together as a twisted pair cable. In some other implementations, the two communication lines 1937 and 1939 may be bundled with the two distribution lines 1933 and 1935 just described as a 4-wire cable, or bundled with two distribution lines and a fifth line as a 5-wire cable. As described above, pins or other interconnects within the downstream interface 1918 electrically connect the first communication line 1937 and the second communication line 1939 in the downstream cable set 1920 with the first communication line 1938 and the second communication line 1940 in the WC 1900. The first communication line 1938 and the second communication line 1940, also collectively referred to herein as a communication bus 1944, may carry data signals Data 3 and Data 4, respectively.

[0153] At different times or stages throughout the transition cycle or at other times, data signals Data3 and Data4 may communicate information from the WC 1900 to one or more connected IGUs 1902, or from one or more of the IGUs 1902 to the WC 1900. As an example of downstream communication, data signals Data3 and Data4 may include status request commands or other instructions to be sent to one or more of the IGUs 1902. As an example of downstream communication, data signals Data3 and Data4 may include status information (e.g., current shading state) or sensor data to be sent from one or more of the IGUs 1902 to the WC 1900. In some implementations, the communication bus 1944 is designed, deployed, and otherwise configured according to a single-wire (1-Wire) device communication bus system protocol. In such a single-wire implementation, communication line 1938 is a data line and data signal Data3 conveys the data to be transmitted, while communication line 1940 is a signal ground line and data signal Data4 provides a reference voltage, such as a signal ground line, relative to which data signal Data3 is measured or compared to recover the data of interest.

[0154] In some implementations, in response to receiving a shading command, the processing unit 1904 initiates a shading transition in one or more of the IGUs 1902 controlled by the WC 1900. In some implementations, the processing unit 1904 calculates, selects and determines, or otherwise generates the command signal V based on the drive parameters. DCmnd The driving parameters include the current shading state of the IGU 1902 to be transformed and the target shading state of the IGU 1902 (based on the shading value in the shading command). The processing unit 1904 may also generate the command signal V based on other driving parameters. DCmnd, the driving parameters such as the ramp to drive rate, drive voltage, drive voltage duration, ramp to hold rate, and hold voltage for each possible combination of the current shading state and the target shading state. Other driving parameters may include parameters based on current or recent sensor data, such as indoor temperature, outdoor temperature, temperature within the interior volume of the IGU 1902 (or one or more of the panes), light intensity in a room adjacent to the IGU 1902, and light intensity outside the IGU 1902, as well as other suitable or desired parameters. In some implementations, such sensor data may be provided to the WC 1900 via an upstream network controller via communication lines 1926 and 1928. Additionally or alternatively, the sensor data may be received from sensors located within or on various portions of the IGU 1902. In some such implementations, the sensor may be within a communication module (e.g., communication module 756) within the IGU 1902 or otherwise coupled to the communication module. For example, multiple sensors including photosensors, temperature sensors, or transmittance sensors may be coupled via the same communication lines 739 and 741 shown in FIG. 7 according to a single-wire communication protocol.

[0155] In some implementations, the processing unit 1904 generates the command signal V based on the voltage control profile. DCmnd , the voltage control distribution is as mentioned above Fig.15 For example, the processing unit 1904 may use the drive parameters and the device parameters to select a voltage control profile from a set of predefined voltage control profiles stored in a memory within or accessible to the processing unit 1904. In some implementations, each set of voltage control profiles is defined for a specific set of device parameters. In some implementations, each voltage control profile in a given set of voltage control profiles is defined for a specific combination of drive parameters. The processing unit 1904 generates a command signal V DCmnd , so that the driver circuit 1908 implements the selected voltage control profile. For example, the processing unit 1904 adjusts the command signal V DCmnd So that the driving circuit 1908 then adjusts the applied voltage signal V 施加1 and V 施加2 More specifically, the driving circuit 1908 adjusts the applied voltage signal V 施加1 and V 施加2 , so that the effective voltage V applied across the ECD 有效 The voltage level indicated by the voltage control profile is tracked throughout the progression through the profile.

[0156] In some implementations, the processing unit 1904 may also dynamically modify the command signal V based on the sensor data. DCmnd(either during the transition or during the hold period after the transition). As described above, such sensor data may be received from various sensors within or otherwise integrated with the connected IGU 1902 or from other external sensors. In some such implementations, the processing unit 1904 may include intelligence (e.g., in the form of programming instructions including rules or algorithms) that enables the processing unit 1904 to determine how to modify the command signal V based on the sensor data. DCmnd In some other implementations, sensor data received from such sensors by WC 1900 may be transmitted to a network controller, and in some instances, from the network controller to a master controller. In such implementations, the network controller or master controller may modify the shading value of the IGU 1902 based on the sensor data and send the modified shading command to the WC 1900. Additionally or alternatively, the network controller or master controller may receive sensor data from one or more other sensors external to the building, such as one or more light sensors positioned on a roof or facade of the building. In some such implementations, the master controller or network controller may generate or modify the shading value based on such sensor data.

[0157] Typically, processing unit 1904 can be implemented with any suitable processor or logic device capable of performing the functions or processes described herein, including a combination of such devices. In some implementations, processing unit 1904 is a microcontroller (also referred to as a microcontroller unit (MCU)). In some more specific applications, processing unit 1904 may be a microcontroller specifically designed for embedded applications. In some implementations, processing unit 1904 includes a processor core (e.g., a 200MHz processor core or other suitable processor core) and a program memory (e.g., 2018KB or other suitable non-volatile memory), a random access memory (RAM) (e.g., 512KB or other suitable RAM) and various I / O interfaces. The program memory may include, for example, code that can be executed by the processor core to implement the functions, operations or processes of processing unit 1904.

[0158] In some implementations, the RAM may store state information of the IGU 1902 controlled by the WC 1900. The RAM may also store device parameters of the ECD within the IGU 1902. In some other implementations, the processing unit 1904 may store such state information or device parameters in another memory device (e.g., a flash memory device) external to the processing unit 1904 but also within the WC 1900. In some specific implementations, the I / O interface of the processing unit 1904 includes one or more CAN interfaces, one or more synchronous serial interfaces (e.g., a 4-wire serial peripheral interface (SPI) interface), and one or more inter-integrated circuit (I / O) interfaces. 2 C) Interface. One example of such a controller suitable for use in some implementations is the PIC32MZ2048ECH064 controller provided by Microchip Technology Inc. of Chandler, AZ.

[0159] exist Fig.19 In the implementation described in , WC 1900 further includes a data bus transceiver 1964. The data bus transceiver 1964 is coupled to the upstream interface 1914 via the communication bus 1932. The data bus transceiver 1964 is also coupled to the processing unit 1904 via the communication bus 1966. As described above, in some implementations, the communication bus 1932 is designed, deployed, and otherwise configured according to the CAN bus standard, which is a differential bus standard. In some implementations, the communication bus 1966 also complies with the CAN bus standard and includes a differential line pair for transmitting a differential signal pair. Thus, the data bus transceiver 1964 may include two sets of differential ports; a first set for coupling with the communication bus 1932 and a second set for coupling with the communication bus 1966, which in turn is coupled with the CAN interface of the processing unit 1904.

[0160] In various implementations, the data bus transceiver 1928 is configured to receive data from a network controller (e.g., NC 1800) via a communication bus 1932, process the data, and send the processed data to the processing unit 1904 via a communication bus 1966. Similarly, the data bus transceiver 1964 is configured to receive data from the processing unit 1904 via a communication bus 1966, process the data, and send the processed data to the interface 1914 via the communication bus 1932, and finally send the processed data to the network controller via an upstream cable set 1916. In some such implementations, processing the data includes converting or interpreting the data from a first protocol to a second protocol (e.g., from a CAN protocol (e.g., CANopen) to a protocol that can be read by the processing unit 1904 and vice versa). One example of such a data bus transceiver suitable for use in some implementations is the SN65HVD1050 data bus transceiver provided by Texas Instruments Inc. of Dallas, TX. In some other implementations, processing unit 1904 may include an integrated data bus transceiver or otherwise include the functionality of data bus transceiver 1964, rendering inclusion of an external data bus transceiver 1964 unnecessary.

[0161] -Power supply circuit

[0162] At a high level, the power circuit 1906 is operable to receive power from power lines 1922 and 1924 and provide power to various components of the WC 1900, including the processing unit 1904, the drive circuit 1908, the feedback circuit 1910, and the communication circuit 1912. As described above, the first power line 1922 receives the power supply voltage V 电源1 , such as a DC voltage having a voltage between approximately 5V and 42V (relative to the power supply voltage V 电源2 ), and in one example application, has a value of 24V (although higher voltages may be desirable and possible in other implementations). Also as described above, the second power supply line 1924 may be a power return. For example, the voltage V on the second power supply line 1924 may be 电源2 Can be a reference voltage, for example, a floating ground.

[0163] The power supply circuit 1906 includes a circuit for gradually reducing the power supply voltage V 电源1 At least one down converter (also referred to herein as a "step-down converter") is provided. In the illustrated implementation, the power supply circuit 1906 includes two down converters: a first relatively low power (LP) down converter 1968 and a second relatively high power (HP) down converter 1970. The LP down converter 1968 is used to convert the power supply voltage V 电源1 Gradually decrease to the first down-converted voltage V Dwn1In some implementations, the down-converted voltage V Dwn1 can have a value in the range of approximately 0 to 5 V, and in one example application, has a value of approximately 3.3 V. The down-converted voltage V Dwn1 is provided to processing unit 1904 for powering processing unit 1904. One example of a LP downconverter suitable for use in some implementations is the TPS54240 2.5 amp (Amp) DC to DC step-down converter provided by Texas Instruments Inc. of Dallas, TX.

[0164] HP down-converter 1970 is used to convert the power supply voltage V 电源1 Gradually decrease to the second down-converted voltage V Dwn2 One example of a HP downconverter suitable for use in some implementations is the TPS54561 5Amp DC to DC step-down converter provided by Texas Instruments Inc. of Dallas, TX. In some implementations, the downconverted voltage V Dwn2 can have a value in the range of approximately 0V to 6V, and in one example application, has a value of approximately 3.3V. The down-converted voltage V Dwn2 is provided to a voltage regulator 1980 described below with reference to the driver circuit 1908. In some implementations, the down-converted voltage V Dwn2 It is also provided to the remaining components within WC 1900 that require power to perform their respective functions (but these connections are not shown in order to avoid overly complicating the illustration and in order to avoid obscuring other components and connections).

[0165] In some implementations, HP downconverter 1970 provides a downconverted voltage V Dwn2 , only when the HP downconverter is caused (or instructed) to do so, such as when or when the processing unit 1904 asserts the enable signal En. In some implementations, the enable signal En is provided to the HP downconverter 1970 via a serial peripheral interface (SPI) interface bus 1986. Although the SPI interface bus 1986 may be described herein in the singular, the SPI bus 1986 may collectively refer to two or more SPI buses, each of which may be used to communicate with a corresponding component of the WC 1900. In some implementations, the processing unit asserts the enable signal En only when the WC 1900 is in an "active mode" rather than a "sleep mode."

[0166] In some implementations, the power circuit 1906 also includes or is coupled to an energy storage device (or "energy well") 1972, such as a capacitive storage device, such as a rechargeable battery (or battery pack) or a supercapacitor. For example, one example of a supercapacitor suitable for use in some implementations may have a capacitance C of at least 400 Farads at 0.4 Watt-hours (Wh). S In some implementations, the energy storage device 1972 can be charged by a charger 1974. In some such implementations, the charger 1974 can be charged by a power supply voltage V 电源1 One example of such a charger suitable for use in some implementations is the LT3741 constant current, constant voltage buck controller provided by Linear Technology Corp. of Milpitas, CA. In some implementations, the charger 1974 is also configured to provide power stored in the energy storage device 1972 to the power line 1922.

[0167] In some implementations, the charger 1974 may alternatively or additionally be powered by one or more photovoltaic (or "solar") cells. For example, such photovoltaic (PV) cells may be integrated onto or into an IGU 1902 controlled by the WC 1900, such as onto one or more panes of the IGU. In some such implementations, the power received via the PV cells may be regulated by a voltage regulator 1976 before being provided to the charger 1974 and ultimately to the energy storage device 1972. For example, the voltage regulator 1976 may be used to gradually increase or decrease the voltage of the power received from the PV cells. The voltage regulator 1976 may also be used to regulate the power provided by the PV cells, whereby the power fluctuates throughout the day. In some implementations, to prevent back-driving (that is, to ensure that power from the energy storage device 1972 or the PV cells does not flow upstream via the upstream cable assembly 1916), the power circuit 1906 may additionally include an asymmetric conductor 1978, such as a low-loss semiconductor diode, such as a Schottky junction diode or a pn junction diode. This diode 1978 is used at the power supply voltage V 电源1 and V 电源2 Further examples of the use of integrated PV cells are described in U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 085,179, filed on November 26, 2014, and entitled “SELF-CONTAINED EC IGU” (Attorney Docket No. VIEWP008X1P), which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety herein.

[0168] Integration of energy storage devices may be advantageous for a number of reasons, whether such devices are contained within a respective WC 1900 (similar to energy storage device 1972) or otherwise distributed throughout a network system (e.g., network system 1600). For example, a power circuit 1906 within each WC 1900 may supplement or augment the power provided by respective power lines 1922 and 1924 with power drawn from energy storage device 1972. Additionally or alternatively, an energy storage device external to WC 1900 may provide power directly to distribution lines that distribute power throughout the network system to power WC 1900. Such an implementation may be particularly advantageous in high demand instances where many IGUs 1902 will be simultaneously transitioning. At times of low demand, a normal power source (e.g., power provided by a building source) may recharge the energy storage device. Further examples of the use of energy storage devices are described in U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 085,179, filed on November 26, 2014, and entitled “SELF-CONTAI NED EC IGU” (Attorney Docket No. VIEWP008X1P); U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 190,012, filed on July 8, 2015, and entitled “POWER MANAGEMENT FOR ELECTROCHROMIC WINDOW NETWORKS” (Attorney Docket No. VIEWP080P); and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 190,012, filed on July 13, 2015, and entitled “POWER MANAGEMENT FOR ELECTROCHROMIC WINDOW NETWORKS” (Attorney Docket No. VIEWP080P). NETWORKS)" in U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 191,975 (Attorney Docket No. VIEWP080AP), all of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0169] -Drive circuit

[0170] At a high level, the driver circuit 1908 is generally operable to receive a command signal V from the processing unit 1904. DCmnd and is operable to be used based on the command signal V DCmnd To provide the applied voltage signal V 施加1 and V 施加2 The drive circuit 1908 includes a voltage regulator 1980 that receives the down-converted voltage V from the HP down-converter 1970 in the power supply circuit 1906. Dwn2 The voltage regulator 1980 is based on the command signal V DCmnd To regulate, adjust or otherwise convert the voltage V Dwn2To provide (or "generate") a first regulated voltage signal V P1 and the second regulated voltage signal V P2 In some implementations, voltage regulator 1980 is a buck-boost converter; that is, voltage regulator 1980 can act as a down-converter to gradually reduce voltage V Dwn2 and acts as an up-converter to gradually increase the input voltage V Dwn2 Whether the voltage regulator 1980 acts as a down converter or an up converter depends on the command signal V DCmnd , the command signal is the amplitude of the down-conversion or up-conversion accordingly. In some more specific implementations, the voltage regulator 1980 is a synchronous buck-boost DC to DC converter. In some such implementations, the regulated voltage signal V P1 and V P2 From the perspective of IGU 1902, and more specifically, from the perspective of the ECD within IGU 1902, it is an effectively fixed amplitude DC signal.

[0171] As described in more detail above, the processing unit 1904 may generate the command signal V based on a number of different parameters, input values, algorithms or instructions. DCmnd In some implementations, the processing unit 1904 generates the command signal V in the form of a digital voltage signal. DCmnd In some such implementations, the driver circuit 1908 further includes a digital-to-analog converter (DAC) 682 for converting the digital command signal V DCmnd Converted into analog command voltage signal V ACmnd In such an implementation, the voltage regulator 1980 is more specifically based on the command voltage signal V ACmnd To generate a regulated voltage signal V P1 and V P2 One example of a DAC suitable for use in some implementations is the AD5683R DAC provided by Analog Devices Inc. of Norwood, MA.

[0172] In some specific implementations, the regulated voltage signal V P1 and V P2 is a rectangular wave (or "pulse") DC signal, for example, a pulse width modulated (PWM) voltage signal. In some such implementations, the voltage regulator 1980 includes an H-bridge circuit to generate a regulated voltage signal V P1 and V P2 In some such implementations, the regulated voltage signal V P1 and V P2 In other words, in the regulated voltage signal V P1 and VP2 The time period from the start of the current pulse to the start of the next pulse in each of has the same duration. In some implementations, the voltage regulator 1980 is operable to modify the corresponding voltage signal V P1 and V P2 In this way, although the first regulated voltage signal V P1 The amplitude (or "magnitude") of the pulse (or "on" duration) may be equal to the second regulated voltage signal V P2 The amplitude of the pulse, but the first regulated voltage signal V P1 and the second regulated voltage signal V P2 Each of the voltage signals V may have different effective DC voltage amplitudes from the perspective of the corresponding busbars and conductive layers of the ECD in IGU 1902. However, in some other implementations, voltage regulator 1980 may additionally or alternatively modify voltage signal V P1 and V P2 The corresponding amplitude of the pulse.

[0173] For example, consider an application where the regulated voltage signal V P1 and V P2 Each of the pulses in each has an amplitude of 5V, but the first voltage signal V P1 The second voltage signal V P2 has a duty cycle of 40%. In this application, the regulated voltage signal V P1 and V P2 The effective DC voltage provided by each of the first voltage signal V can be approximated as the product of the corresponding pulse amplitude and the fraction of the duty cycle occupied by the corresponding pulse. P1 The effective DC voltage provided can be approximately 3V (the product of 5V and 0.6), and the second voltage signal V P2 The effective voltage provided may be approximately 2V (the product of 5V and 0.4). In some implementations, the first voltage signal V P1 The duty cycle of the second voltage signal V P2 For example, as in the example just provided, if the first voltage signal V P1 With a duty cycle of X%, the second voltage signal V P2 The duty cycle of the first voltage signal V may be Y%, where Y%=100%-X%. In some such implementations, the first voltage signal V P1 The “on” duration can be related to the second voltage signal V P2 The “off” duration is consistent with that of the first voltage signal V P1 The “off” duration can be related to the second voltage signal VP2 In some other implementations, the duty cycles do not necessarily have to be complementary; for example, the first voltage signal V P1 The second voltage signal V P2 May have a 15% duty cycle.

[0174] As described above, in some implementations, the regulated voltage signal V P1 and V P2 is an effective fixed amplitude DC signal from the perspective of IGU 1902, and more specifically, from the perspective of the ECD within IGU 1902. For further such implementations, voltage regulator 1980 may also include one or more electronic filters, and more specifically, one or more passive filter components, such as one or more inductors. Such filters or filter components may be present in the regulated voltage signal V P1 and V P2 The regulated voltage signal is smoothed before being provided to ensure that the regulated voltage signal V P1 and V P2 To further facilitate the regulated voltage signal V P1 and V P2 In some implementations, the voltage signal V P1 and V P2 The frequency of the pulses in the inductor may be greater than or equal to a suitably high frequency (e.g., tens, hundreds, or thousands of kilohertz (kHz)). For example, as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the greater the frequency of the voltage oscillations applied to the conductor, the less able the charge in the conductor is to react to the voltage oscillations. Additionally, the greater the inductance in the inductor, the greater the smoothing of the voltage oscillations provided by the inductor.

[0175] In some implementations, the voltage regulator 1980 may advantageously be capable of operating in a burst mode to reduce the power consumption of the WC 1900 over time. In the burst mode of operation, the voltage regulator 1980 automatically enters and leaves the burst mode to minimize the power consumption of the voltage regulator 1980. One example of such a voltage regulator suitable for use in some implementations is the LTC3112 15V, 2.5Amp Synchronous Buck-Boost DC / DC Converter provided by Linear Technology Corp. of Milpitas, CA.

[0176] In some implementations, the regulated voltage signal V P1 and V P2 Correspondingly, the applied voltage signal V 施加1 and V 施加2 In some such implementations, the regulated voltage signal V P1 With VP2 The difference between them is the effective voltage V 有效 In some implementations, to achieve the brightening color transition, the processing unit 1904 generates a command signal V DCmnd , so that the voltage regulator 1980 provides a positive effective voltage V 有效 To achieve the darkening color transition, the processing unit 1904 generates a command signal V DCmnd , so that the voltage regulator 1980 provides a negative effective voltage V 有效 In contrast, in some other implementations involving different electrochromic layers or counter electrode layers, the darkening color transition is achieved by providing a positive effective voltage V 有效 The brightening color transition is achieved by providing a negative effective voltage V 有效 accomplish.

[0177] Regardless, the voltage regulator 1980 can provide a positive effective voltage V by operating as follows 有效 : Increase the first voltage signal V P1 The duty cycle of the second voltage signal V P2 The duty cycle of the first voltage signal V P1 The duty cycle of the second voltage signal V P2 The duty cycle of the first applied voltage signal V 施加1 The effective DC voltage is greater than the second applied voltage signal V 施加2 Similarly, the voltage regulator 1980 can provide a negative effective voltage V by the following operation: 有效 : Reduce the first voltage signal V P1 The duty cycle of the second voltage signal V P2 The duty cycle of the first voltage signal V P1 The duty cycle of the second voltage signal V P2 The duty cycle of the first applied voltage signal V 施加1 The effective DC voltage is less than the second applied voltage signal V 施加2 The effective DC voltage.

[0178] In some other implementations, including Fig.19 In the implementation described in FIG. 1 , the driving circuit 1908 further includes a polarity switch 1984. The polarity switch 1984 receives two regulated voltage signals V from the voltage regulator 1980. P1 and V P2 And output applied voltage signal V 施加1 and V 施加2 , the applied voltage signal is provided to power lines 1934 and 1936 accordingly. Polarity switch 1984 can be used to set the effective voltage V 有效The polarity of is switched from positive to negative, and vice versa. Similarly, in some implementations, the voltage regulator 1980 can increase the first voltage signal V P1 duty cycle or by reducing the second voltage signal V P2 The duty cycle of V P1 Relative to V P2 magnitude, and thus increases V 有效 Similarly, the voltage regulator 1980 can reduce the amplitude of the first voltage signal V P1 duty cycle or by increasing the second voltage signal V P2 The duty cycle of V P1 Relative to V P2 magnitude, and thus reduce V 有效 The amplitude of .

[0179] In some other implementations, the second voltage V P2 Can be a signal ground. In such an implementation, the second voltage V P2 The voltage regulator 1980 may be fixed or floating during the transitions and during the time between transitions. In such an implementation, the voltage regulator 1980 may increase or decrease the first voltage signal V P1 The duty cycle is used to increase or decrease V P1 The magnitude of V 有效 In some other such implementations, the voltage regulator 1980 may also adjust the first voltage signal V P1 The first voltage signal V is directly increased or decreased without adjusting the duty cycle or the duty cycle. P1 The amplitude of V P1 The magnitude of V 有效 In fact, in such a latter implementation, the first voltage signal V P1 It can be an actual fixed DC signal instead of a pulse signal.

[0180] In an implementation including polarity switch 1984, the second voltage signal V P2 It can be a signal ground and the first voltage signal V P1 can always be relative to the second voltage signal V P2 In such implementations, the polarity switch 1984 may include two configurations (eg, two electrical configurations or two mechanical configurations). The processing unit 1904 may control the polarity switch 1984 via a control signal V provided, for example, via the SPI bus 1986. 极性to control which of the configurations the polarity switch 1984 is in. For example, the processing unit 1904 may select the first configuration when implementing a brightening transition and select the second configuration when implementing a dimming transition. For example, when the polarity switch 1984 is in the first configuration, the polarity switch may output a voltage signal V 施加2 The positive first applied voltage signal V 施加1 Conversely, when the polarity switch 1984 is in the second configuration, the polarity switch may output a voltage signal V 施加2 The negative first applied voltage signal V 施加1 .

[0181] In some implementations, when in the first configuration, the polarity switch 1984 transmits a first voltage signal V P1 (or its buffered version) as the first applied voltage signal V 施加1 And transmit the second voltage signal V P2 (or its grounded version) as the second applied voltage signal V 施加2 , thus generating a positive effective voltage V 有效 In some implementations, when in the second configuration, the polarity switch 1984 transmits the first voltage signal V P1 (or its buffered version) as the second applied voltage signal V 施加2 And transmit the second voltage signal V P2 (or its grounded version) as the first applied voltage signal V 施加2 , thus generating a negative effective voltage V 有效 In some implementations, polarity switch 1984 may include an H-bridge circuit. 极性 The H-bridge circuit may function in either the first configuration or the second configuration depending on the value of . One example of a polarity switch suitable for use in some implementations is the IRF7301 HEXFET Power MOSFET provided by International Rectifier Corp. of San Jose, CA.

[0182] In some implementations, when the positive voltage V 有效 Switch to negative voltage V 有效 Or vice versa, the polarity switch 1984 can be configured to switch from the first conduction mode to the high impedance mode, and then switch to the second conduction mode, or vice versa. For teaching purposes, consider an example in which the first regulated voltage V P1 At a positive hold value and wherein the polarity switch 1984 is in the first configuration. As described above, in some implementations, the polarity switch 1984 passes V P1 (or its buffered version) as the first applied voltage V 施加1, thereby generating a first applied voltage V also at a positive hold value 施加1 To simplify the explanation, we also assume that V P2 and V 施加2 The result will be an effective applied voltage V at the positive hold value. 有效 Now consider that processing unit 1904 is beginning a coloring transition that will produce an effective applied voltage V 有效 The final state is at a negative hold value. In some implementations, to achieve the color transition, the processing unit 1904 adjusts the command signal V based on the negative ramp to the drive profile. DCmnd So that the voltage regulator 1980 reduces the voltage V P1 In some implementations, when the voltage V P1 When the amplitude of reaches a threshold value close to zero (eg, 10 millivolts (mV)), the processing unit 1904 switches the polarity switching signal V 极性 Changing from the first value to the second value causes the polarity switch 1984 to switch from the positive conduction mode (the first configuration described above) to the high impedance mode.

[0183] When in high impedance mode, polarity switch 1984 does not pass V P1 Alternatively, polarity switch 1984 may output V based on a predefined calculation or estimate. 施加1 (or V 施加2 ) value. At the same time, the voltage regulator 1980 continues to P1 The amplitude decreases to zero. P1 When the amplitude reaches zero, the voltage regulator 1980 starts to increase V P1 The amplitude reaches the negative drive value. P1 When the amplitude of reaches a threshold value (eg, 10 mV), the processing unit 1904 then switches the polarity switching signal V 极性 From the second value to the third value to cause the polarity switch 1984 to switch from the high impedance mode to the negative conduction mode (the second configuration described above). As described above, in some such implementations, the polarity switch 1984 passes V P1 As the second applied voltage V 施加2 , and the first applied voltage V 施加1 is the signal ground. In short, at V P1 When the magnitude of is greater than or equal to a threshold voltage (e.g., 10 mV), polarity switch 1984 passes the regulated voltage V depending on whether polarity switch 1984 is in a positive conduction mode (first configuration) or a negative conduction mode (second configuration). P1 As the first applied voltage V 施加1 or the second applied voltage V 施加2 Therefore, the effective applied voltage V 有效 By VP1 The magnitude and polarity configuration of the polarity switch 1984 specifies that V 有效 When the polarity switch 1984 is in high impedance mode, the value of -10mV is less than or equal to -10mV or greater than or equal to +10mV. <V 有效 <10mV range, V 有效 , and more generally, V 施加1 and V 施加2 The value of is determined based on a predefined calculation or estimate.

[0184] -Feedback circuit

[0185] As described above, in some implementations, the processing unit 1904 may, during operation (eg, during a coloring transition or during the time between coloring transitions), determine the coloring of the image based on one or more feedback signals V. 反馈 To modify the command signal V DCmnd In some implementations, the feedback signal V 反馈 is based on one or more voltage feedback signals V OC , which in turn is based on the actual voltage level detected across the ECD of the connected IGU. Such a voltage feedback signal V OC It can be measured during periodic open circuit conditions (during or between transitions) while the applied voltage V 施加1 and V 施加2 For example, the open circuit voltage feedback signal V OC The measurement may be made using a differential amplifier 1988 having a first input connected to power line 1934, a second input connected to power line 1936, and an output connected to an analog-to-digital converter (ADC) 1992. One example of a differential amplifier suitable for use in some implementations is the low power, gain adjustable precision LT1991 provided by Linear Technology Corp. of Milpitas, CA.

[0186] Additionally or alternatively, the second feedback signal V 反馈 It can be based on one or more current feedback signals V 电流 , the current feedback signal is then based on the actual current level detected through the ECD. Such a current feedback signal V 电流 The measurement may be performed using an operational amplifier 1990 having a first input terminal connected to a first input terminal of a resistor 691, which is also connected to an output terminal of a polarity switch 1984. A second input terminal of the operational amplifier 1990 may be connected to a second terminal of the resistor 691, which is also connected to a voltage at a second power supply voltage V 电源2The output of operational amplifier 1990 may be connected to ADC 1992. An example of an operational amplifier suitable for use in some implementations is the low noise CMOS, precision AD8605 provided by Analog Devices Inc. of Norwood, MA. Because the resistance R F is known, so the actual current flowing out of the polarity switch 1984 can be determined by the processing unit 1904 based on the voltage difference signal V 电流 to be sure.

[0187] In some implementations, the processing unit 1904 is further configured to compensate for the voltage signal V 施加1 and V 施加2 The transmission losses generated by the transmission through the conductive distribution lines 1933 and 1935. More specifically, the actual voltage provided to the busbar of a given IGU 1902 may be less than the voltage V at the output of the WC 1900. 施加1 and V 施加2 Thus, the actual voltage V applied across the ECD within the IGU 402 实际 may be less than the voltage V at the output of WC 1900 施加1 With V 施加2 For example, the diagram shows that each has a resistance R T The resistance of the distribution lines 1934 and 1936 with resistors may cause a significant voltage drop along the distribution lines 1934 and 1936. Of course, the resistance of each distribution line is proportional to the length of the distribution line and inversely proportional to the cross-sectional area of ​​the distribution line. Therefore, the expected voltage drop can be calculated based on the knowledge of the length of the distribution line. However, this length information may not be available. For example, the installer may not record such length information during the installation of the IGU or may not record such information accurately, precisely, or correctly. In addition, in some traditional installations that utilize existing wires, such length information may not be available.

[0188] Additionally or alternatively, the third feedback signal V 反馈 It can be based on one or more voltage compensation feedback signals V 补偿 , the voltage compensation feedback signal is then based on the actual voltage drop detected along at least one of the distribution lines. For example, such feedback signal V 补偿 This can be measured using a differential amplifier 1994 having a first input connected to one of the distribution lines 1934 or 1934 in WC 1900 , a second input connected to a fifth line 1942 in WC 1900 , and an output connected to ADC 1992 .

[0189] Open circuit voltage feedback signal V OC, current feedback signal V 电流 And the voltage compensation feedback signal V 补偿 Each of the above can be digitized by ADC 1992 and provided to processing unit 1904 as feedback signal V 反馈 One example of an ADC suitable for use in some implementations is the low power AD7902 provided by Analog Devices Inc. of Norwood, MA. In some of the above examples, although the feedback signal V is referred to in the singular 反馈 , but the feedback signal V 反馈 It can collectively refer to three (or more or less) separate feedback signals: the first feedback signal is used to digitize the open circuit voltage signal V OC , the second feedback signal is used to digitize the current signal V 电流 And the third feedback signal is used to digitize the voltage compensation signal V 补偿 . Feedback signal V 反馈 The feedback signal V may be provided to the processing unit 1904 via the SPI bus 1986. The processing unit 1904 may then use the feedback signal V 反馈 To dynamically modify the command signal VD Cmnd , so that the actual value of the voltage applied across the ECD stack of IGU 1902 is V 实际 Approximately equal to the desired effective voltage V 有效 , and thus, the target coloring state is achieved.

[0190] For example, when the external environment becomes brighter, WC 1900 may receive a tinting command from NC 1800 to darken IGU 1902. However, in some implementations or examples, as the corresponding ECD becomes increasingly tinted, the temperature of the ECD may increase significantly due to increased photon absorption. Because the tinting of the ECD may depend on the temperature of the ECD, the tinting state may be determined in the command signal V DCmnd In some implementations, the processing unit 1904 may be based on, for example, a feedback signal V OC and V 电流 The determined actual voltage across the ECD or the actual current through the ECD is used to adjust the command signal V DCmnd , rather than directly detecting temperature fluctuations.

[0191] -Communication circuit

[0192] The communication circuit 1912 is generally configured to enable communication between the processing unit 1904 and various other components within or outside the WC 1900. For example, the communication circuit 1912 may include a bridge device 1996. In some implementations, the bridge device 1996 enables the processing unit 1996 to transmit and receive data signals Data3 and Data4 via communication lines 1938 and 1940 (collectively referred to as the data bus 1944) and corresponding communication lines 637 and 639. In some implementations, the bridge device 1996 may be a single-wire bridge device that is configured to communicate according to a single-wire communication protocol. In some such implementations, the communication lines 639 and 1940 may be signal grounds, while the communication lines 637 and 639 carrying the data signal Data3 may provide both data and power to the chip 756 and to any number of single-wire compatible sensors within the IGU 1902. In some implementations, chip 756 within IGU 1902 can be an intermediary for data communications between processing unit 1904 and sensors within IGU 1902. For example, the sensors can be connected to communication lines 739 and 741, which are connected to chip 756. In some other implementations, the sensors can be directly coupled to communication lines 637 and 639 via interface 754 and communication lines 738 and 740. At other times, data signal Data3 can transmit sensor data back to processing unit 1904.

[0193] The bridge device 1996 is configured to manage communications to, from, and between single-wire devices. The processing unit 1904 may be configured to communicate with the single-wire devices via I 2 C bus 1997 transmits instructions to bridge device 1996, or receives data from the bridge device. 2 C bus 1997 may be described in the singular herein, but I 2 C bus 1997 may collectively refer to two or more I 2 C bus, the I 2 Each of the I C buses can be used to communicate with a corresponding component of WC 1900. Therefore, in some implementations, bridge device 1996 acts as an I 2 C to a single-wire bridge that interfaces directly to I 2 I C host (processing unit 1904) 2C host port to perform bidirectional protocol conversion between processing unit 1904 and downstream single-wire slave devices, including chip 756 and any sensors on or within IGU 1902. One such bridge device suitable for use in some implementations is the DS2482 Single-Wire Master Device provided by Maxim Integrated Products, Inc. of San Jose, CA. In some other implementations, the functionality of bridge device 1996 may be integrated into processing unit 1904.

[0194] In some implementations, the communication circuit 1912 also includes a radio transceiver 1998. For example, the radio transceiver 1998 can communicate with the user via an I 2 The C bus 1997 communicates with the processing unit 1904. The radio transceiver 1998 can implement wireless communication between the processing unit 1904 and other devices having such radio transceivers, including, for example, other WC 1900, NC1800, IGU 1902, and mobile devices or other computing devices. Although mentioned in the singular form herein, the radio transceiver 1998 can collectively refer to one or more radio transceivers that are each configured for wireless communication according to different corresponding protocols. For example, some wireless network protocols suitable for use in some implementations may be based on the IEEE 802.11 standard, such as Wi-Fi (or "WiFi"). Additionally or alternatively, the radio transceiver 1998 can be configured to communicate based on the IEEE 802.15.4 standard, which defines the physical layer and media access control of low-rate wireless personal area networks (LR-WPANs). For example, a higher level protocol compatible with the IEEE 802.15.4 standard may be based on ZigBee, 6LoWPAN, ISA100.11a, WirelessHART, or MiWi specifications and standards. Additionally or alternatively, the radio transceiver 1998 may be configured to communicate based on the Bluetooth standard (including classic Bluetooth, Bluetooth high speed, and Bluetooth low energy protocols and including Bluetooth v4.0, v4.1, and v4.2 versions). Additionally or alternatively, the radio transceiver 1998 may be configured to communicate based on the EnOcean standard (ISO / IEC 14543-3-10).

[0195] As described above, wireless communication may replace communication via physical cables between WC 1900 and NC 1800. In addition, in some implementations, distributed WC 1900 may form a mesh network for transmitting various information to each other or to MC 1700, NC 1800, or to other devices, rendering physical communication lines between various controllers of a network system such as network system 1600 unnecessary. Also as mentioned above, WC 1900 may communicate wirelessly with the IGU 1902 it controls. For example, the communication module 756 within each IGU 1902 may also include a radio transceiver for communicating with the radio transceiver 1998 and processing unit 1904 of the WC 1900. In some implementations, wireless communication may replace communication via physical cables between WC 1900 and IGU 1902. For example, wireless communication can replace the single-wire communication bus 1944, communication lines 637 and 639, and communication lines 738 and 740. Such wireless implementations can facilitate the manufacture and installation of self-contained IGUs, such as IGUs that do not require the attachment of physical cables. In some such self-contained implementations, each IGU can include an energy storage device and an integrated photovoltaic cell for charging the energy storage device. The energy storage device can then power the tinting state and tinting state transitions of the ECD within the IGU.

[0196] In some implementations, the communication circuit 1912 may additionally or alternatively include a power line communication module 1999. The power line communication module 1999 may transmit data via a power supply voltage signal V 电源1 (and in some cases, also V 电源2 ) rather than via communication lines 1922 and 1924 or wirelessly or in addition to transmission via communication lines or wirelessly. As shown in the figure, the power line communication module 1999 can be transmitted via I 2 C bus 1997 communicates with processing unit 1904.

[0197] - Intelligent Network Controller

[0198] In some implementations, reference Fig.18 The NC 1800 described above can bear the Fig.17 Some of the functions, processes or operations of the responsibilities of MC 1700. Additionally or alternatively, NC 1800 may include additional functionality or capabilities not described with reference to MC 1700.

[0199] In some implementations, the NC 1800 periodically requests status information from the WCs 1900 it controls. For example, the NC 1800 may transmit a status request to each of the WCs 1900 it controls every few seconds, every tens of seconds, every minute, every few minutes, or after any desired time period. In some implementations, each status request is directed to a corresponding WC in the WCs 1900 using a CAN ID or other identifier of the corresponding WC 1900. In some implementations, the NC 1800 sequentially travels through all the WCs 1900 it controls during each round of status acquisition. In other words, the NC 1800 cycles through all the WCs 1900 it controls so that the status request is sequentially sent to each of the WCs 1900 in each round of status acquisition. After the status request has been sent to a given WC 1900, the NC 1800 then waits to receive status information from the corresponding WC 1900 before sending the status request to the next one of the WCs in the round of status acquisition.

[0200] In some implementations, after having received state information from all WCs 1900 controlled by NC 1800, NC 1800 then performs a round of shading command distribution. For example, in some implementations, each round of state acquisition is followed by a round of shading command distribution, which is then followed by the next round of state acquisition and the next round of shading command distribution, and so on. In some implementations, during each round of shading command distribution, NC 1800 continues to send shading commands to each of the WCs 1900 controlled by NC 1800. In some such implementations, NC 1800 also sequentially travels through all WCs 1900 controlled by it during the round of shading command distribution. In other words, NC 1800 cycles through all WCs 1900 controlled by it so that shading commands are sequentially sent to each of the WCs 1900 in each round of shading command distribution.

[0201] In some implementations, each status request includes an instruction indicating what status information is being requested from the corresponding WC 1900. In some implementations, in response to receiving this request, the corresponding WC 1900 responds by sending the requested status information to the NC 1800 (e.g., via a communication line in the upstream cable set 1916). In some other implementations, each status request defaults to causing the WC 1900 to send a predefined set of information for the set of IGUs 1902 it controls. Regardless, the status information that the WC 1900 transmits to the NC 1800 in response to each status request may include, for example, a tinting state value (S) of the IGU 1902, the tinting state value indicating whether the IGU 1902 is undergoing a tinting transition or has completed a tinting transition. Additionally or alternatively, the tinting state value S or another value may indicate a specific stage in the tinting transition (e.g., a specific stage of a voltage control profile). In some implementations, the state value S or another value may also indicate whether the WC 1900 is in a sleep mode. The status information transmitted in response to the status request may also include, for example, the tinting value (C) of IGU 1902, as set by MC 1700 or NC 1800. The response may also include a response by WC 1900 based on the tinting value (e.g., the effectively applied V 有效 In some implementations, the response may also include a near real-time actual voltage level V across the ECD within the IGU 1902 measured, detected, or otherwise determined (e.g., via amplifier 1988 and feedback circuit 1910). 实际 In some implementations, the response may also include a near real-time actual current level I through the ECD within the IGU 1902 that is measured, detected, or otherwise determined (eg, via amplifier 1990 and feedback circuit 1910). 实际 . The response may also include various near real-time sensor data, for example, collected from photosensors or temperature sensors integrated on or within the IGU 1902.

[0202] Some protocols, such as CANOpen, limit the size of each frame of data sent from WC 1900 to NC 1800, and vice versa. In some examples, the sending of each status request and the receiving of status information in response to this request actually includes multiple bidirectional communications, and therefore, multiple frames. For example, each status request described above may include a separate sub-request for each of the status values ​​described above. As a more specific example, each status request from NC 1800 to a particular WC 1900 may include a first sub-request requesting a status value S. In response to the first sub-request, WC 1900 may send an acknowledgment and a frame including the status value S to NC 1800. NC 1800 may then send a second sub-request requesting a shading value C to WC 1900. In response to the second sub-request, WC 1900 may send an acknowledgment and a frame including the shading value C to NC 1800. 有效 、V 实际 and I 实际 The values ​​of and sensor data can be similarly obtained using separate corresponding sub-requests and responses.

[0203] In some other implementations, the NC 1800 may send status requests to specific WCs 1900 asynchronously, rather than polling each of the WCs 1900 or sending status requests to each of the WCs 1900 on a sequential basis. For example, the NC 1800 may periodically receive status information (including C, S, V, and VI) from all WCs 1900. 有效 、V 实际 and I 实际 For example, it may be desirable to asynchronously request such information from only specific ones of WCs 1900 that have recently received or implemented a shading command, are currently undergoing a shading transition, have recently completed a shading transition, or have not collected state information from that specific WC for a relatively long duration.

[0204] In some other implementations, each of the WCs 1900 may periodically broadcast its status information (including C, S, V 有效 、V 实际 and I 实际), rather than individually polling each of the WCs 1900 or sending status requests to each of the WCs, either on a sequential basis or asynchronously. In some such implementations, each of the WCs 1900 may broadcast status information wirelessly. For example, each WC 1900 may broadcast status information every a few seconds, tens of seconds, minutes, or tens of minutes. In some implementations, the WCs 1900 may be synchronized to broadcast their respective status information at certain times to avoid occupying a large amount of collective bandwidth. In addition, the broadcast period may be different and at different times for different sets of WCs 1900 (such as the partitions described above), for example, based on the position of the corresponding IGU in the building and relative to the sun, or based on whether the rooms adjacent to the IGUs are occupied.

[0205] In some other implementations, each of the WCs 1900 may broadcast its status information in response to certain conditions, such as when a shading transition is started, when a shading transition is completed, when a V 实际 When the threshold value is changed, when I 实际 The NC 1800 may be configured to receive status information from a set of WCs 1900 when a threshold value is changed, when sensor data (e.g., light intensity or temperature) changes by a threshold value, when an occupancy sensor indicates that an adjacent room is occupied, or when entering or exiting sleep mode. The NC 1800 may listen for such broadcasted status information and record the status information when the NC hears it. Advantageously, in a broadcast implementation, the time required to receive status information from a set of WCs 1900 is approximately cut in half because there is no need to request status information from the WCs 1900, and therefore, there is no round-trip delay associated with each WC 1900. Instead, there is only a one-way delay associated with the time required to send the status information from each WC 1900 to the NC 1800.

[0206] In some such implementations, the NC 1800 may asynchronously send shading commands to specific WCs 1900, whether via a wired or wireless connection, rather than sending shading commands on a sequential basis to each of the WCs 1900. For example, it may be unhelpful to periodically send shading commands to all WCs 1900. For example, it may be desirable to asynchronously send shading commands to only specific ones of the WCs 1900 that are about to transition to a different shading state, whose state information has just been (or has recently been) received, or to which no shading commands have been sent for a relatively long duration.

[0207] -Data logger

[0208] In some implementations, NC 1800 also includes a data logging module (or "data logger") for logging data associated with the IGUs controlled by NC 1800. In some implementations, the data logger logs status information included in each of some or all of the responses to the status requests. As described above, the status information transmitted by WC 1900 to NC 1800 in response to each status request may include a shading state value (S) of IGU 1902; a value indicating a particular stage in a shading transition (e.g., a particular stage of a voltage control profile); a value indicating whether WC 1900 is in sleep mode; a shading value (C); and a value indicating whether WC 1900 is in sleep mode based on the shading value (e.g., the effective application of V 有效 the actual voltage level V across the ECD within the IGU 1902 as measured, detected, or otherwise determined; 实际 ; The actual current level I through the ECD within the IGU 1902 measured, detected or otherwise determined 实际 , and various sensor data, for example, collected from photoelectric sensors or temperature sensors integrated on or within IGU 1902.

[0209] In some implementations, a data logger within the NC 1800 collects and stores various information received from the WC 1900 in the form of a comma separated value (CSV) file or via another table structured file format. For example, each row in the CSV file may be associated with a corresponding status request and may contain C, S, V, and 有效 、V 实际 and I 实际 The values ​​of and sensor data (or other data) received in response to the status request. In some implementations, each row is identified by a timestamp corresponding to the corresponding status request (e.g., when the status request was sent by the NC 1800, when the data was collected by the WC 1900, when the response containing the data was sent by the WC 1900, or when the response was received by the NC 1800). In some implementations, each row also includes a CAN ID or other ID associated with the corresponding WC 1900.

[0210] In some other implementations, each row in the CSV file may contain request data for all WCs 1900 controlled by the NC 1800. As described above, the NC 1800 may sequentially cycle through all WCs 1900 it controls during each round of status requests. In some such implementations, each row in the CSV file is still identified by a timestamp (e.g., in the first column), but the timestamp may be associated with the start of each round of status requests rather than each individual request. In one specific example, columns 2-6 may contain the values ​​C, S, V, and S, respectively, of the first WC in the WCs 1900 controlled by the NC 1800. 有效 、V 实际 and I 实际 , columns 7-11 may contain the values ​​C, S, V of the second WC in WC 1900, respectively. 有效 、V 实际 and I 实际 , columns 12-16 may contain the values ​​C, S, V of the third WC in WC 1900, respectively. 有效 、V 实际 and I 实际 , and so on, traversing all WCs 1900 controlled by NC 1800. The next row in the CSV file may contain the corresponding values ​​for the next round of status requests. In some implementations, each row may also contain sensor data obtained from a photoelectric sensor, a temperature sensor, or other sensor integrated with the corresponding IGU controlled by each WC 1900. For example, such sensor data values ​​may be input into the C, S, V, and S values ​​of the first WC in WC 1900. 有效 、V 实际 and I 实际 The values ​​in the corresponding columns are between, but in the row of WC 1900 the C, S, V of the next WC 有效 、V 实际 and I 实际 Additionally or alternatively, each row may contain sensor data values ​​from one or more external sensors, such as from the reference above. Figure 1-13 Sensor data values ​​of the described multi-sensor device 100. In some such implementations, the NC 1800 may send status requests to the external sensors at the end of each round of status requests.

[0211] -Protocol conversion module

[0212] As described above, one function of NC 1800 may be to translate between various upstream and downstream protocols, for example, to enable information distribution between WC 1900 and MC 1700 or between WC and externally facing network 1610. In some implementations, a protocol conversion module is responsible for such translation or conversion services. In various implementations, the protocol conversion module may be programmed to perform translation between any upstream protocol in a plurality of upstream protocols and any downstream protocol in a plurality of downstream protocols. As described above, such upstream protocols may include UDP protocols such as BACnet, TCP protocols such as oBix, other protocols constructed on top of these protocols, and various wireless protocols. Downstream protocols may include, for example, CANopen, other CAN-compatible protocols, and various wireless protocols, including, for example, protocols based on the IEEE 802.11 standard (e.g., WiFi), protocols based on the IEEE 802.15.4 standard (e.g., ZigBee, 6LoWPAN, ISA100.11a, WirelessHART, or MiWi), protocols based on the Bluetooth standard (including Classic Bluetooth, Bluetooth High Speed, and Bluetooth Low Energy protocols and including Bluetooth v4.0, v4.1, and v4.2 versions), or protocols based on the EnOcean standard (ISO / IEC 14543-3-10).

[0213] -Comprehensive analysis

[0214] In some implementations, the NC 1800 periodically (e.g., every 24 hours) uploads information logged by the data logger (e.g., as a CSV file) to the MC 1700. For example, the NC 1800 may send the CSV file to the MC 1700 via the File Transfer Protocol (FTP) or another suitable protocol over the Ethernet data link 1616. In some such implementations, the status information may then be stored in a database 1620 or may be accessed by applications via the externally facing network 1610.

[0215] In some implementations, NC 1800 may also include functionality to analyze information recorded by the data logger. For example, the analysis module may receive and analyze raw information recorded in real time by the data logger. In various implementations, the analysis module may be programmed to make decisions based on the raw information from the data logger. In some other implementations, the analysis module may communicate with database 1620 to analyze the state information recorded by the data logger after it is stored in database 1620. For example, the analysis module may compare V 有效 、V 实际 and I 实际The analysis module compares the raw value of the ECD to an expected value or range of expected values ​​and flags a special condition based on the comparison. For example, such flagged conditions may include power spikes indicating a short circuit, an error, or damage to the ECD. In some implementations, the analysis module transmits such data to the shading determination module or to the power management module.

[0216] In some implementations, the analysis module may also filter the raw data received from the data logger to more intelligently or efficiently store information in the database 1620. For example, the analysis module may be programmed to pass only "interesting" information to the database manager for storage in the database 1620. For example, the information of interest may include outliers, or values ​​that otherwise deviate from expected values ​​(e.g., based on empirical or historical values). More detailed examples of how raw data may be filtered, parsed, temporarily stored, and efficiently stored in a database for a long term are described in PCT Patent Application No. PCT / 2015 / 029675 (Attorney Docket No. VIEWP049X1WO), filed on May 7, 2015, and entitled "CONTROL METHOD FOR TINTABLE WINDOWS," which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety herein.

[0217] - Database Manager

[0218] In some implementations, the NC 1800 includes a database manager module (or "database manager") that is configured to store information logged by the data logger to a database on a regular basis, for example, every hour, every few hours, or every 24 hours. In some implementations, the database may be an external database, such as the database 1620 described above. In some other implementations, the database may be internal to the NC 1800. For example, the database may be implemented as a time series database, such as a Graphite database within the auxiliary memory 1806 of the NC 1800 or within another long-term memory of the NC 1800. In some example implementations, the database manager may be implemented as a Graphite Daemon that executes as a background process, task, subtask, or application within a multitasking operating system of the NC 1800.

[0219] In some implementations, database 1620 may collectively refer to two or more databases, each of which may store some or all of the information obtained through some or all of the NC 1800 in network system 1600. For example, it may be desirable to store copies of information in multiple databases for redundancy purposes. In some implementations, database 1620 may collectively refer to a plurality of databases, each of which is within a corresponding NC 1800 (e.g., Graphite or other time series databases). It may also be desirable to store copies of information in multiple databases so that requests for information from applications including third-party applications can be distributed among the databases and processed more efficiently. In some such implementations, the databases may be synchronized periodically or otherwise to maintain consistency.

[0220] In some implementations, the database manager may also filter the data received from the analysis module to more intelligently or efficiently store information in an internal or external database. For example, the database manager may additionally or alternatively be programmed to store only "interesting" information to the database. Likewise, the information of interest may include outliers, or values ​​that otherwise deviate from expected values ​​(e.g., based on empirical or historical values). More detailed examples of how raw data can be filtered, parsed, temporarily stored, and efficiently stored in a database for a long period of time are described in PCT Patent Application No. PCT / 2015 / 029675 (Attorney Docket No. VIEWP049X1WO), filed on May 7, 2015, and entitled "CONTROL METHOD FOR TINTABLE WINDOWS," which is hereby incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0221] - Coloring OK

[0222] In some implementations, NC 1800 includes intelligence for calculating, determining, selecting, or otherwise generating a shading value for IGU 1902. For example, as described above with reference to Fig.171700, the shading determination module may perform various algorithms, tasks, or subtasks to generate shading values ​​based on a combination of parameters. The combination of parameters may include, for example, state information collected and stored by a data logger. The combination of parameters may also include time or calendar information, such as the time of day, the day of the year, or the time of a season. Additionally or alternatively, the combination of parameters may include solar calendar information, such as the direction of the sun relative to the IGU 1902. The combination of parameters may also include the external temperature (outside the building), the internal temperature (in a room adjacent to the target IGU 1902), or the temperature within the internal volume of the IGU 1902. The combination of parameters may also include information about the weather (e.g., whether it is sunny, clear, overcast, cloudy, rainy, or snowing). Parameters such as the time of day, the day of the year, or the direction of the sun may be programmed into the NC 1800 and tracked by the NC. Parameters such as the external temperature, the internal temperature, or the IGU temperature may be obtained from sensors in, on, or around the building or sensors integrated on or within the IGU 1902. In some implementations, various parameters may be provided by, or determined based on information provided by, various applications, including third-party applications that may communicate via an API with the NC 1800. For example, a network controller application, or an operating system on which the network controller application runs, may be programmed to provide an API.

[0223] In some implementations, the shading determination module may also determine shading values ​​based on user overrides received via various mobile device applications, wall devices, or other devices. In some implementations, the shading determination module may also determine shading values ​​based on commands or instructions received from various applications including third-party applications and cloud-based applications. For example, such third-party applications may include various monitoring services, including thermostat services, alarm services (e.g., fire detection), security services, or other appliance automation services. Additional examples of monitoring services and systems may be found in PCT / US2015 / 019031 (Attorney Docket No. VIEWP061WO), filed on March 5, 2015, and entitled "MONITORING SITES CONTAINING SWITCHABLE OPTICAL DEVICES AND CONTROLLERS." Such applications may communicate with the shading determination module and other modules within the NC 1800 via one or more APIs. Some examples of APIs that may be implemented by NC1800 are described in US Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 088,943, filed on December 8, 2014, and entitled MULTIPLE INTERFACING SYSTEMS AT ASITE (Attorney Docket No. VIEWP073P).

[0224] -Peripheral light sensor in a mounting form or structure attached to a circuit board

[0225] In some implementations, each light sensor at the periphery of the multi-sensor device 100 (or 1000) is attached to or enclosed in a form or mounting structure, and the electrical leads from the light sensors are bent around to connect with suitable contact points on the circuit board surface. FIG. 20 shows a diagrammatic front view (top) and cross-sectional view z-z' (bottom) of a light sensor 1112 enclosed in a mounting structure 1112, which is attached to a flat circuit board 1534, according to an embodiment. The mounting structure 1112 can be a block or shape of material formed from, for example, a plastic or thermoplastic (e.g., nylon or polyamide), as well as other suitable materials. In other examples, the mounting structure 1112 can be formed from a metallic material such as aluminum, cobalt, or titanium, or a semi-metallic material such as alumide. Depending on the material, the mounting structure 1113 can be 3D printed, injection molded, or formed via other suitable processes. The mounting structure 1112 includes an aperture shaped to receive the light sensor 1112 and maintain the light sensor 1112 in an orientation parallel to the flat circuit board 1534. The light sensor 1112 may also be bonded or otherwise connected to the interior of the aperture. Leads 1115 from the back of the light sensor 1112 bend approximately 90 degrees to connect downwardly with contact points on the surface of the circuit board 1534. The leads 1115 may pass through a conduit or through other openings of the mounting structure to connect to the circuit board 1534. A single light sensor 1112 is shown for illustration purposes. It should be understood that multiple light sensors are included in a multi-sensor device.

[0226] 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 to control the operation of these controllers. Any disclosed implementation presented as or for an electrochromic window may be more generally implemented as or for a switchable optical device (including windows, mirrors, etc.).

[0227] Various modifications to the embodiments described in the present disclosure may be readily 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 will conform to the widest scope consistent with the present disclosure, the principles, and the novel features disclosed herein. In addition, it should be readily understood by those skilled in the art that the terms "upper" and "lower" are sometimes used for ease of describing the drawings and indicate relative positions corresponding to the orientation of the drawings on a properly oriented page, and may not reflect the appropriate orientation of the device as implemented.

[0228] 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. Furthermore, while features may be described above as functioning in certain combinations and even initially claimed as such, one or more features from a claimed combination may in some cases be eliminated from the combination, and a claimed combination may involve subcombinations or variations of subcombinations.

[0229] Similarly, although the operation is depicted in a particular order in the diagram, this does not necessarily mean that the operation needs to be performed in the particular order shown or in a sequential order, or all the operations described are performed to achieve the desired result. In addition, the diagram can schematically depict one or more example processes in the form of a flow chart. However, other operations that are not depicted can be incorporated into the example process schematically illustrated. For example, one or more other operations can be performed before, after, at the same time or between any operation in the illustrated operation. In some contexts, multitasking and parallel processing can be advantageous. In addition, the separation of various system components in the implementation described above should not be understood as requiring this separation in all implementations, and it should be understood that the described program components and systems can usually be integrated together in a single software product or packaged into multiple software products. In addition, other implementations are within the scope of the following 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 system for tinting one or more tintable windows, the system comprising: The network is configured as follows: operably coupled to at least one first controller, to at least one second controller, and to the one or more tintable windows, the at least one second controller being configured to direct the at least one first controller; transmitting data from the at least one first controller, wherein the data includes raw voltage and / or current characteristics associated with tinting transitions of the one or more tintable windows, wherein the raw voltage and / or current characteristics are determined at least in part based on an open circuit voltage measured during a tinting transition of the one or more tintable windows or during a pause in providing voltage between tinting transitions of the one or more tintable windows; as well as An analysis of the comparison of the raw voltage and / or current characteristics to the expected voltage and / or current characteristics is transmitted to identify at least one signature condition. 2 . The system of claim 1 , wherein the at least one flagged condition comprises an indication of a power spike, an indication of damage to at least one of the one or more tintable windows, or both. 3 . The system of claim 1 , wherein the network is configured to send the filtered raw voltage and / or filtered current characteristics to a database. 4 . The system of claim 3 , wherein the filtered raw voltage and / or the filtered current characteristic comprises a raw voltage value and / or a current characteristic determined to be abnormal.

5. The system of claim 1, wherein the expected voltage and / or current characteristics include historical values.

6. The system of claim 1, wherein the network is configured to receive and / or transmit signals using a wireless communication protocol.

7. The system of claim 1, wherein the network is configured to send communications compliant with a vehicle bus standard protocol or a communication bus protocol.

8. The system of claim 1, wherein the network is configured for power transmission.

9. A method for tinting one or more tintable windows, the method comprising: receiving raw voltage and / or current characteristics associated with tinting transitions of the one or more tintable windows, wherein the raw voltage and / or current characteristics are determined based at least in part on an open circuit voltage measured during a tinting transition of the one or more tintable windows or during a pause in providing voltage between tinting transitions of the one or more tintable windows; comparing the raw voltage and / or current characteristic to the expected voltage and / or current characteristic to produce a comparison; and At least one flag condition is identified based at least in part on the one comparison.

10. The method of claim 9, wherein the at least one flagged condition comprises an indication of a power spike, an indication of damage to at least one of the one or more tintable windows, or both.

11. The method of claim 9, further comprising sending to at least one database: (i) filtered raw voltage and / or (ii) filtered current characteristics.

12. The method of claim 11, wherein (i) the filtered raw voltage and / or (ii) the filtered current characteristics respectively include: (a) the raw voltage value is determined to be abnormal and / or (b) the current characteristic is determined to be abnormal.

13. The method of claim 9, wherein the expected voltage and / or current characteristics include historical values.

14. A system comprising: The network is configured as follows: operably coupled to the electrochromic device and to an open circuit voltage circuit; sending and / or transmitting a drive voltage to the electrochromic device during a transition from a first colored state to a second colored state, wherein the sending and / or transmitting of the drive voltage causes a voltage to be applied to two power lines of the electrochromic device; sending and / or transmitting, via the open circuit voltage circuit, a measurement at a first time during the transition from the first coloration state to the second coloration state, wherein the measurement comprises (I) a voltage across the electrochromic device and / or (II) a current through the electrochromic device, wherein the first time comprises a pause in applying the drive voltage to the electrochromic device, and wherein the open circuit voltage circuit is configured to measure a difference between the two power lines through the electrochromic device; and sending and / or transmitting a modification of the drive voltage at a second time during the transition from the first coloring state to the second coloring state, wherein the modification is based at least in part on (i) the measured voltage across the electrochromic device and / or (ii) the measured current through the electrochromic device.

15. The system of claim 14, wherein the voltage across the electrochromic device is measured using a differential amplifier or an operational amplifier.

16. The system of claim 14, wherein the network is configured to send communications compliant with a vehicle bus standard protocol or a communication bus protocol.

17. The system of claim 14, wherein the network is configured to receive and / or transmit signals using a wireless communication protocol.

18. The system of claim 14, wherein at least a portion of the network is configured for both power transmission and data communication via a single cable using Power over Ethernet (PoE).

19. The system of claim 14, wherein: The voltages applied to the two power lines of the electrochromic device include a first voltage and a second voltage; and The difference between the two power lines passing through the electrochromic device comprises a difference between the first voltage and the second voltage.

20. The system of claim 14, wherein the pause in applying the drive voltage to the electrochromic device occurs periodically.

21. The system of claim 14, wherein sending and / or transmitting the drive voltage during a transition from the first coloring state to the second coloring state comprises (i) applying a first voltage ramp to transition from an initial voltage to a drive voltage, and (ii) applying the drive voltage for a first duration.

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