Remote management of facility

Abstract

One aspect of the disclosure relates to remote management of a facility. Systems, devices, methods, and non-transitory computer-readable media are disclosed relating to management of sites having various devices (e.g., switchable optical devices), including remote management of sites including a local network.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of invention patent application 202080022001.X, filed on February 18, 2020, entitled “Remote Management of Facilities”.

[0002] Related applications

[0003] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 62 / 807,668, filed on February 19, 2019, entitled “CLOUD-BASED TECHNIQUES FOR MANAGING SITES HAVING SWITCHABLE OPTICAL DEVICES,” which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Background Art

[0004] The present disclosure relates to techniques for managing sites having switchable optical devices, and more particularly to cloud-based techniques for remotely managing sites, each site including a local network of switchable optical devices.

[0005] Electrochromism is the phenomenon in which a material exhibits reversible electrochemically mediated changes in its optical properties when placed in different electronic states, typically by subjecting it to voltage changes. The optical properties are typically one or more of color, transmittance, absorbance, and reflectance. A well-known electrochromic material is tungsten oxide (WO3). Tungsten oxide is a cathodic electrochromic material, where the color transition from transparent to blue occurs through electrochemical reduction.

[0006] Electrochromic materials can be incorporated into windows for residential, commercial, and other uses, for example. The color, transmittance, absorbance, and / or reflectance of such windows can be altered by inducing changes in the electrochromic material. In other words, electrochromic windows are windows that can be electronically darkened or brightened. A small voltage applied to the window's electrochromic device darkens the window; reversing the voltage brightens the window. This capability allows for control over the amount of light passing through the window and presents opportunities for using electrochromic windows as energy-saving devices.

[0007] Optically switchable devices such as electrochromic windows (sometimes referred to as "smart windows") can be networked together and with one or more window controllers and / or network controllers via a local network such as a controller area network (CAN) bus that includes an associated controller "CAN manager" for regulating communications over the CAN bus in a particular installation, building site, or structure ("site"). Improved techniques for interfacing with such networks are desirable. Summary of the Invention

[0008] In some aspects, disclosed herein are techniques for managing sites with switchable optical devices, including cloud-based techniques for remotely managing sites, each site including a local network of switchable optical devices. In another aspect, a system includes a building and a remote master network controller, the building including an electrochromic window network and window controllers and at least one network controller. In one embodiment, the network controller is configured to (i) communicate with the window controllers, e.g., via a local data bus, and (ii) communicate with the remote master controller, e.g., via an Internet protocol.

[0009] In one embodiment, a cloud-based system includes one or both of computing and data storage resources. The cloud-based system is configured to be communicatively coupled to a plurality of remote sites, each site including a respective network of switchable optical devices and at least one associated network controller. The cloud-based system is further configured to receive data regarding functionality of the respective network from the at least one network controller and to send data and / or control messages to the at least one associated network controller via one or more interfaces.

[0010] In another embodiment, a building includes a plurality of electrochromic windows and window controllers and at least one network controller configured to communicate with the window controllers via a local data bus and with a remote master controller via an Internet protocol.

[0011] In another aspect, a cloud-based system includes one or both of computing and data storage resources, wherein the cloud-based system is configured to: (i) be communicatively coupled with a plurality of remote sites, each site including (a) a respective network of switchable optical devices and (b) at least one associated network controller; (ii) receive data regarding functionality of the respective network from the at least one associated network controller; and (iii) send data and / or control messages to the at least one associated network controller in response to the received data.

[0012] In some embodiments, at least one of the remote sites is a building that includes (A) a building management system (BMS) and (B) a cloud-based system, and is communicatively coupled to a corresponding network of switchable optical devices via one or both of the BMS and an associated network controller. In some embodiments, at least one of the remote sites is a building that includes a building management system (BMS), and the cloud-based system is communicatively coupled to the at least one remote site (e.g., only) via the BMS. In some embodiments, the cloud-based system is communicatively coupled to the at least one remote site (e.g., only) via an associated network controller, e.g., regardless of whether the remote site includes a building management system. In some embodiments, the system is configured as a master network controller for at least one of the multiple remote sites. In some embodiments, the system is communicatively coupled to the at least one remote site via an application programming interface. In some embodiments, the system is configured to provide a human operator interface. In some embodiments, the human operator interface includes one or more consoles configured to present information about the functionality of the device in the remote site to a human operator.

[0013] In another aspect, a building comprises (I) (i) a network of electrochromic windows and (ii) window controllers; and (II) at least one network controller, wherein the network controller is designed to: (A) communicate with the window controllers via a local data bus, and (B) communicate with a remote master controller, for example by means of an Internet protocol.

[0014] In some embodiments, the remote master controller is configured to reside in a cloud-based system that includes one or both of computing and data storage resources. In some embodiments, the local data bus complies with the Controller Area Network (abbreviated herein as "CAN") standard. In some embodiments, the network controller includes a CAN manager that includes an application programming interface configured to receive HTTP input from the remote master controller (e.g., via the Internet and a CAN interface) to communicate with the window controller. In some embodiments, at least one network controller is configured to (a) send data regarding the functionality of the network to the remote master controller, and (b) receive data and / or control messages from the remote master controller.

[0015] In another aspect, a system includes: a building including a network of electrochromic windows and window controllers and at least one network controller; and a remote master network controller, wherein the network controller is configured to: (i) communicate with the window controllers via a local data bus; and (ii) communicate with the remote master controller via an Internet protocol.

[0016] In some embodiments, the remote master controller is configured to reside in a cloud-based system that includes one or both of computing and data storage resources. In some embodiments, the local data bus conforms to the Controller Area Network (CAN) standard. In some embodiments, the network controller includes a CAN manager that includes an application programming interface (API) configured to receive HTTP input from the remote master controller via the Internet and the CAN interface to communicate with the window controller. In some embodiments, the building includes a building management system (BMS) and the remote master network controller is communicatively coupled to the electrochromic window network via one or both of the BMS and the network controller. In some embodiments, the building includes a building management system (BMS) and the remote master network controller is communicatively coupled to the building only via the BMS. In some embodiments, the remote master network controller is communicatively coupled to the electrochromic window network only via the network controller, regardless of whether the building includes a building management system. In some embodiments, the remote master network controller is communicatively coupled to the window controller via an application programming interface. In some embodiments, the network controller is configured to (i) send data regarding the functionality of the network to the remote master controller and (ii) receive data and / or control messages from the remote master controller.

[0017] In another aspect, a method implemented on a cloud-based system coupled to a plurality of remote building sites, each site including an electrochromic window network and window controller and at least one network controller, the method comprising: (a) receiving data regarding functionality of the respective network from at least one network controller; and (b) sending data and / or control messages to at least one network controller.

[0018] On the other hand, a non-transitory computer-readable medium for controlling one or more devices of a facility, the non-transitory computer-readable medium having instructions embodied thereon, the instructions, when executed by one or more processors, causing the one or more processors to perform a method comprising: controlling the one or more devices disposed in the facility or directing control of the one or more devices disposed in the facility, the controller hierarchy comprising multiple control levels, wherein a single control level is physically disposed in the facility, the single control level (e.g., one or more processors associated with the single control level) being configured to be communicatively coupled to the one or more devices.

[0019] In some embodiments, compared to a single control level, a single control level is controlled by at least one higher control level, which is part of a plurality of control levels. In some embodiments, the at least one higher control level includes one or more processors located outside the facility and / or in the cloud. In some embodiments, the at least one higher control level includes one or more processors whose roles in the controller hierarchy are dynamically changed. In some embodiments, only a single control level is physically located in the facility. In some embodiments, the single control level includes at least one circuit system configured to directly control the one or more devices. In some embodiments, the at least one circuit system includes a microcontroller. In some embodiments, the at least one circuit system includes a switch. In some embodiments, the switch is an on-off switch. In some embodiments, the at least one circuit system includes a computer-readable medium that is less complex than any higher-level controller in the controller hierarchy. In some embodiments, the at least one circuit system is less complex than any higher-level controller in the controller hierarchy. In some embodiments, the at least one circuit system is configured to communicate with the one or more devices, and the at least one circuit system is configured to control the operation of the one or more devices or to direct control of the operation of the one or more devices. In some embodiments, the one or more processors on which the non-transitory computer-readable medium is disposed are located outside the facility, and the one or more processors are communicatively coupled to the one or more devices. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the one or more processors on which the non-transitory computer-readable medium is disposed are located in the cloud. In some embodiments, the facility does not have the one or more processors as part of the controller hierarchy. In some embodiments, the facility does not have non-transitory computer-readable media on which control logic is engraved. In some embodiments, the one control level includes one or more processors, each of which includes circuitry and logic. In some embodiments, the one or more processors on which the non-transitory computer-readable medium is disposed are communicatively coupled to at least one wiring network system disposed in the facility. In some embodiments, the one or more devices are communicatively coupled to the at least one network system. In some embodiments, the at least one network system includes a network management system. In some embodiments, the at least one network system includes electrical cables and / or optical cables. In some embodiments, the at least one network system includes twisted pair cables and / or coaxial cables.

[0020] On the other hand, a method for controlling one or more devices of a facility, the method comprising: controlling the one or more devices disposed in the facility or directing control of the one or more devices disposed in the facility, the controller hierarchy comprising multiple control levels, wherein a single control level (e.g., one or more controllers associated with the single control level) is physically disposed in the facility.

[0021] In some embodiments, compared to a single control level, a single control level is controlled by at least one higher control level, the at least one higher control level being part of a plurality of control levels. In some embodiments, the at least one higher control level includes one or more controllers located outside the facility. In some embodiments, the further embodiment includes dynamically changing the role of the at least one higher control level in the controller hierarchy. In some embodiments, only a single control level is physically located within the facility. In some embodiments, the single control level includes at least one controller configured to control or directly control the one or more devices. In some embodiments, the at least one controller includes logic that is less complex than the complexity of any higher-level controller in the controller hierarchy. In some embodiments, the at least one controller has less complexity than any higher-level controller in the controller hierarchy. In some embodiments, the one or more controllers are located outside the facility. In some embodiments, the logic of the one or more controllers is located in the cloud. In some embodiments, the facility does not have the one or more controllers as part of the controller hierarchy. In some embodiments, the facility does not have non-transitory media on which control logic is embodied. In some embodiments, the one or more controllers are communicatively coupled to at least one wiring network system located within the facility. In some embodiments, the at least one network system further comprises communicating with the one or more devices via the at least one network system. In some embodiments, the at least one network system comprises a network management system controlled by the controller hierarchy. In some embodiments, the at least one network system comprises an electrical cable and / or an optical cable. In some embodiments, the at least one network system comprises a twisted pair and / or a coaxial cable. In some embodiments, the at least one network system comprises a network system for each building of the facility. In some embodiments, the facility comprises one or more buildings.

[0022] On the other hand, a non-transitory computer-readable medium for controlling one or more devices of a facility, the non-transitory computer-readable medium having instructions embodied thereon, the instructions, when executed by one or more processors, causing the one or more processors to perform a method comprising: controlling the one or more devices disposed in the facility or directing control of the one or more devices disposed in the facility, the controller hierarchy comprising multiple control levels, wherein a single control level is physically disposed in the facility, the single control level (e.g., one or more processors associated with the single control level) being configured to be communicatively coupled to the one or more devices.

[0023] In some embodiments, compared to a single control level, a single control level is controlled by at least one higher control level, which is part of a plurality of control levels. In some embodiments, the at least one higher control level includes one or more processors located outside the facility and / or in the cloud. In some embodiments, the at least one higher control level includes one or more processors whose roles in the controller hierarchy are dynamically changed. In some embodiments, only a single control level is physically located in the facility. In some embodiments, the single control level includes at least one circuit system configured to directly control the one or more devices. In some embodiments, the at least one circuit system includes a microcontroller. In some embodiments, the at least one circuit system includes a switch. In some embodiments, the switch is an on-off switch. In some embodiments, the at least one circuit system includes a computer-readable medium that is less complex than any higher-level controller in the controller hierarchy. In some embodiments, the at least one circuit system is less complex than any higher-level controller in the controller hierarchy. In some embodiments, the at least one circuit system is configured to communicate with the one or more devices, and the at least one circuit system is configured to control the operation of the one or more devices or to direct control of the operation of the one or more devices. In some embodiments, the one or more processors on which the non-transitory computer-readable medium is disposed are located outside the facility, and the one or more processors are communicatively coupled to the one or more devices. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the one or more processors on which the non-transitory computer-readable medium is disposed are located in the cloud. In some embodiments, the facility does not have the one or more processors as part of the controller hierarchy. In some embodiments, the facility does not have non-transitory computer-readable media on which control logic is engraved. In some embodiments, the one control level includes one or more processors, each of which includes circuitry and logic. In some embodiments, the one or more processors on which the non-transitory computer-readable medium is disposed are communicatively coupled to at least one wiring network system disposed in the facility. In some embodiments, the one or more devices are communicatively coupled to the at least one network system. In some embodiments, the at least one network system includes a network management system. In some embodiments, the at least one network system includes electrical cables and / or optical cables. In some embodiments, the at least one network system includes twisted pair cables and / or coaxial cables.

[0024] In another aspect, the present disclosure provides methods of using (eg, for its intended purpose) any of the systems and / or devices disclosed herein.

[0025] In another aspect, the present disclosure provides systems, devices (eg, controllers), and / or non-transitory computer-readable media (eg, software) that implement any of the methods disclosed herein.

[0026] In another aspect, an apparatus includes at least one controller programmed to direct a mechanism for implementing (eg, performing) any of the methods disclosed herein, wherein the at least one controller is operatively coupled to the mechanism.

[0027] In another aspect, an apparatus includes at least one controller configured (eg, programmed) to implement (eg, perform) the methods disclosed herein. The at least one controller may implement any one of the methods disclosed herein.

[0028] In another aspect, a system includes at least one controller programmed to direct the operation of at least one other device (or component thereof) and the device (or component thereof), wherein the at least one controller is operably coupled to the device (or component thereof). The device (or component thereof) may include any of the devices (or components thereof) disclosed herein. The at least one controller may direct any of the devices (or components thereof) disclosed herein.

[0029] In another aspect, a computer software product includes a non-transitory computer-readable medium having program instructions stored therein, which, when read by a computer, causes the computer to direct the mechanism disclosed herein (e.g., any of the devices and / or components thereof) to implement (e.g., perform) any of the methods disclosed herein, wherein the non-transitory computer-readable medium is operatively coupled to the mechanism. The mechanism may include any of the devices disclosed herein (or any of their components).

[0030] In another aspect, the present disclosure provides a non-transitory computer-readable medium comprising machine-executable code that, when executed by one or more computer processors, implements any of the methods disclosed herein.

[0031] In another aspect, the present disclosure provides a non-transitory computer-readable medium comprising machine-executable code that, when executed by one or more computer processors, implements the instructions of a controller (eg, as disclosed herein).

[0032] In another aspect, the present disclosure provides a computer system comprising one or more computer processors and a non-transitory computer-readable medium coupled thereto. The non-transitory computer-readable medium includes machine-executable code that, when executed by the one or more computer processors, implements any of the methods disclosed herein and / or executes instructions for a controller disclosed herein.

[0033] This summary is provided as a simplified introduction to the disclosure and is not intended to limit the scope of any invention disclosed herein or the scope of the appended claims.

[0034] Additional aspects and advantages of the present disclosure will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description, wherein only exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure are shown and described. As will be appreciated, the present disclosure is capable of other and different embodiments, and its several details are capable of modification in various obvious respects, all without departing from the present disclosure. Accordingly, the drawings and description are to be regarded as illustrative in nature and not restrictive.

[0035] These and other features and embodiments will be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0036] Incorporated by reference

[0037] All publications, patents, and patent applications mentioned in this specification are herein incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each individual publication, patent, or patent application was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0038] The novel features of the present invention are set forth with particularity in the appended claims. A better understanding of the features and advantages of the present invention will be obtained by referring to the following detailed description, which sets forth illustrative embodiments in which the principles of the invention are utilized, and the accompanying drawings (also referred to herein as the "Figures"), in which:

[0039] Figure 1 depicts a schematic cross-section of an electrochromic device;

[0040] Figure 2A depicts a schematic cross-section of an electrochromic device in a bleached state (or transitioning to a bleached state);

[0041] Figure 2B depiction Figure 2A a schematic cross-section of an electrochromic device as shown in but in a colored state (or transitioning to a colored state);

[0042] Figure 3 A simplified block diagram depicting the components of a window controller;

[0043] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of a room including tintable windows and at least one sensor according to the disclosed embodiments;

[0044] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of an example of a building and a building management system (BMS) according to certain embodiments;

[0045] Figure 6 is a block diagram of components of a system for controlling the functionality of one or more tintable windows of a building, according to certain embodiments;

[0046] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram of the window controller and related components.

[0047] Figure 8 shows an example of a site monitoring and control system according to an embodiment;

[0048] Figure 9A and Figure 9B Describe an example of a building network diagram;

[0049] Figure 10 is a block diagram of components of a system for controlling the functionality of one or more tintable windows of a building, according to certain embodiments;

[0050] Figure 11 is a simplified block diagram of a building site interfacing with a cloud-based monitoring and control system according to some embodiments;

[0051] Figure 12 illustrates features of a CAN manager according to some embodiments; and

[0052] Figure 13 is a flow chart showing an example of a method for monitoring and / or controlling a remote building site using a cloud-based system.

[0053] The figures and components therein may not be drawn to scale. Various components of the figures described herein may not be drawn to scale. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0054] Although various embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described herein, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that these embodiments are provided as examples only. Various changes, modifications, and substitutions may occur to those skilled in the art without departing from the present invention. It should be understood that various alternatives to the embodiments of the present invention described herein may be employed.

[0055] Terms such as "a / an" and "the / said" are not intended to refer to only a single entity but include general classes that can be illustrated using specific examples. The terminology herein is used to describe specific embodiments of the invention, but its usage does not limit the invention.

[0056] When referring to a range, unless otherwise indicated, the range is inclusive. For example, a range between value 1 and value 2 is inclusive and includes value 1 and value 2. An inclusive range will span any value from about value 1 to about value 2. As used herein, the terms "adjacent" or "adjacent to" include "immediately adjacent," "abutting," "contacting," and "close to."

[0057] The term "operably coupled" or "operably connected" refers to a first element (e.g., a mechanism) being coupled (e.g., connected) to a second element to allow for the intended operation of the second element and / or the first element. The coupling can include physical or non-physical coupling. Non-physical coupling can include signal inductive coupling (e.g., wireless coupling). The coupling can include physical coupling (e.g., physical connection) or non-physical coupling (e.g., via wireless communication).

[0058] An element (e.g., a mechanism) that is "configured to" perform a function includes structural features that enable the element to perform the function. Structural features may include electrical features, such as circuit systems or circuit elements. Structural features may include circuit systems (e.g., including electrical circuit systems or optical circuit systems). The electrical circuit system may include one or more wires. The optical circuit system may include at least one optical element (e.g., a beam splitter, a reflector, a lens, and / or an optical fiber). Structural features may include mechanical features. Mechanical features may include latches, springs, closures, hinges, chassis, supports, fasteners, or cantilevers, among others. Performing the function may include utilizing logical features. Logical features may include programming instructions. The programming instructions may be executed by at least one processor. The programming instructions may be stored or encoded on a medium accessible to one or more processors.

[0059] In the following description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the presented embodiments. The disclosed embodiments may be practiced without some or all of these specific details. In other instances, well-known processing operations are not described in detail to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the disclosed embodiments. Although the disclosed embodiments will be described in conjunction with specific embodiments, it will be understood that this is not intended to limit the disclosed embodiments. It will be understood that although the disclosed embodiments focus on electrochromic windows (also known as smart windows), the aspects disclosed herein may be applied to other types of tintable windows. For example, a tintable window comprising a liquid crystal device or a suspended particle device instead of an electrochromic device may be incorporated in any of the disclosed embodiments.

[0060] To acclimate the reader to embodiments of the systems and methods disclosed herein, a brief discussion of electrochromic devices and window controllers is provided. This initial discussion is provided for context only, and embodiments of the systems, window controllers, and methods described subsequently are not limited to the specific features and manufacturing processes discussed herein.

[0061] Figure 1 A cross-section of an electrochromic device 100 is schematically depicted. Electrochromic device 100 includes a substrate 102, a first conductive layer (CL) 104, an electrochromic layer (EC) 106, an ionically conductive layer (IC) 108, a counter electrode layer (CE) 110, and a second conductive layer (CL) 114. Layers 104, 106, 108, 110, and 114 are collectively referred to as an electrochromic stack 120. A voltage source 116, operable to apply a potential across electrochromic stack 120, effects a transition of the electrochromic device from, for example, a bleached state to a colored state. The order of the layers can be reversed relative to the substrate.

[0062] Electrochromic devices having the various layers described can be fabricated as all-solid-state devices and / or all-inorganic devices. Such devices and methods of fabricating them are described in greater detail in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12 / 645,111, filed on December 22, 2009, and entitled “Fabrication of Low-Defectivity Electrochromic Devices,” by Mark Kozlowski et al., and in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12 / 645,159, filed on December 22, 2009, and entitled “Electrochromic Devices,” by Zhongchun Wang et al., each of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. However, it should be understood that any one or more layers in the stack may contain some amount of organic material. The same is true for liquids that may be present in small amounts in one or more layers. It should also be understood that solid-state materials may be deposited or otherwise formed by processes employing liquid components, such as certain processes employing sol-gel or chemical vapor deposition.

[0063] In addition, it should be understood that the reference to the transition between the bleached state and the colored state is non-restrictive, and only one example of many electrochromic transitions that can be used is proposed. Unless otherwise noted herein (including the aforementioned discussion), whenever mentioning a bleached coloration transition, the corresponding device or process includes other optical state transitions, such as non-reflective to reflective, transparent to opaque, etc. In addition, the term "bleached" refers to an optically neutral state, such as colorless, transparent or translucent. Further, unless otherwise noted herein, the "color" of the electrochromic transition is not limited to any specific wavelength or wavelength range. As understood by those skilled in the art, the selection of appropriate electrochromic and counter electrode materials determines the relevant optical transition.

[0064] In the embodiments described herein, the electrochromic device reversibly cycles between a bleached state and a colored state. In some cases, when the device is in the bleached state, a potential is applied to the electrochromic stack 120 so that the available ions in the stack are primarily located in the counter electrode 110. When the potential on the electrochromic stack is reversed, ions are transported across the ion-conducting layer 108 to the electrochromic material 106 and the material is converted to a colored state. In a similar manner, the electrochromic device of the embodiments described herein can reversibly cycle between different hue levels (e.g., a bleached state, a darkest colored state, and an intermediate level between the bleached state and the darkest colored state).

[0065] Reference again Figure 1 , voltage source 116 can be configured to operate in conjunction with radiation and other environmental sensors. As described herein, voltage source 116 interfaces with a device controller (not shown in this figure). Additionally, voltage source 116 can interface with an energy management system that controls the electrochromic device based on various criteria, such as time of year, time of day, and measured environmental conditions. Such an energy management system, combined with large-area electrochromic devices (e.g., electrochromic windows), can significantly reduce energy consumption in buildings.

[0066] Any material having suitable optical, electrical, thermal, and mechanical properties can be used as substrate 102. Such substrates include, for example, glass, plastic, and mirror materials. Suitable glass includes clear or colored soda-lime glass, including soda-lime float glass. The glass can be tempered or untempered.

[0067] In many cases, the substrate is a pane of glass sized for residential window applications. The size of such a pane of glass can vary widely depending on the specific needs of the residence. In other cases, the substrate is architectural glass. Architectural glass is commonly used in commercial buildings, but can also be used in residential buildings, and typically, but not necessarily, separates an indoor environment from an outdoor environment. In certain embodiments, architectural glass is at least 20 inches by 20 inches, and can be larger, for example, up to about 80 inches by 120 inches. Architectural glass is typically at least about 2 mm thick, and is typically between about 3 mm and about 6 mm thick. Of course, the electrochromic device can be scaled relative to substrates that are smaller or larger than architectural glass. In addition, the electrochromic device can be provided on mirrors of any size and shape.

[0068] On top of substrate 102 is a conductive layer 104. In certain embodiments, one or both of conductive layers 104 and 114 are inorganic and / or solid. Conductive layers 104 and 114 can be made of many different materials, including conductive oxides, thin metal coatings, conductive metal nitrides, and composite conductors. Typically, conductive layers 104 and 114 are transparent at least in the wavelength range in which the electrochromic layer exhibits electrochromism. Transparent conductive oxides include metal oxides and metal oxides doped with one or more metals. Examples of such metal oxides and doped metal oxides include indium oxide, indium tin oxide, doped indium oxide, tin oxide, doped tin oxide, zinc oxide, aluminum zinc oxide, doped zinc oxide, ruthenium oxide, doped ruthenium oxide, and the like. Because oxides are commonly used in these layers, they are sometimes referred to as "transparent conductive oxide" (TCO) layers. Substantially transparent thin metal coatings, as well as combinations of TCOs and metal coatings, can also be used.

[0069] The function of the conductive layer is to spread the potential provided by voltage source 116 over the surface of electrochromic stack 120 to the interior of the stack with a relatively small ohmic potential drop. The potential is transferred to the conductive layer through electrical connections to the conductive layer. In some embodiments, bus bars (one in contact with conductive layer 104 and one in contact with conductive layer 114) provide electrical connections between voltage source 116 and conductive layers 104 and 114. Conductive layers 104 and 114 can also be connected to voltage source 116 using other conventional methods.

[0070] The covering conductive layer 104 is an electrochromic layer 106. In some embodiments, the electrochromic layer 106 is inorganic and / or solid. The electrochromic layer can comprise any one or more of a number of different electrochromic materials, including metal oxides. These metal oxides include tungsten oxide (WO3), molybdenum oxide (MoO3), niobium oxide (Nb2O5), titanium oxide (TiO2), copper oxide (CuO), iridium oxide (Ir2O3), chromium oxide (Cr2O3), manganese oxide (Mn2O3), vanadium oxide (V2O5), nickel oxide (Ni2O3), cobalt oxide (Co2O3), etc. During operation, the electrochromic layer 106 transfers ions to the counter electrode layer 110 and receives ions from the counter electrode layer to cause an optical transition.

[0071] Generally, the coloring (or change in any optical property - e.g., absorbance, reflectance, and transmittance) of an electrochromic material is caused by reversible ion insertion (e.g., intercalation) into the material and corresponding charge-balancing electron injection. Generally, some of the ions responsible for the optical transition irreversibly bind in the electrochromic material. Some or all of the irreversibly bound ions are used to compensate for "blind charges" in the material. In most electrochromic materials, suitable ions include lithium ions (Li+) and hydrogen ions (H+) (i.e., protons). However, in certain cases, other ions will be suitable. In various embodiments, lithium ions are used to produce the electrochromic phenomenon. The intercalation of lithium ions into tungsten oxide (WO3-y(0 < y ≤ ~0.3)) changes tungsten oxide from transparent (bleached state) to blue (colored state).

[0072] Referring again to Figure 1 , in the electrochromic stack 120, the ion-conductive layer 108 is sandwiched between the electrochromic layer 106 and the counter electrode layer 110. In some embodiments, the counter electrode layer 110 is inorganic and / or solid. The counter electrode layer can include one or more of a variety of different materials that serve as an ion reservoir when the electrochromic device is in the bleached state. During an electrochromic transition initiated, for example, by applying an appropriate potential, the counter electrode layer transfers some or all of the ions it holds to the electrochromic layer, changing the electrochromic layer to the colored state. At the same time, in the case of NiWO, the counter electrode layer colors as it loses ions.

[0073] In some embodiments, suitable materials for the counter electrode complementary to WO3 include nickel oxide (NiO), nickel tungsten oxide (NiWO), nickel vanadium oxide, nickel chromium oxide, nickel aluminum oxide, nickel manganese oxide, nickel magnesium oxide, chromium oxide (Cr2O3), manganese dioxide (MnO2), and Prussian blue.

[0074] When charge is removed from the counter electrode 110 made of nickel tungsten oxide (ie, ions are transferred from the counter electrode 110 to the electrochromic layer 106), the counter electrode layer will transition from a transparent state to a colored state.

[0075] In the depicted electrochromic device, between the electrochromic layer 106 and the counter electrode layer 110, there is an ion conductive layer 108. When the electrochromic device is transformed between the bleached state and the colored state, the ion conductive layer 108 serves as a medium through which ions (in the form of an electrolyte) are transported. Preferably, the ion conductive layer 108 has a high conductivity for the relevant ions of the electrochromic layer and the counter electrode layer, but has a sufficiently low electronic conductivity so that negligible electron transfer occurs during normal operation. A thin ion conductive layer with high ion conductivity allows for fast ion conduction and therefore fast switching for achieving high performance electrochromic devices. In certain embodiments, the ion conductive layer 108 is inorganic and / or solid.

[0076] Examples of suitable ion-conducting layers (for electrochromic devices with different IC layers) include silicates, silicon oxides, tungsten oxides, tantalum oxides, niobium oxides, and borates. These materials can be doped with various dopants, including lithium. Lithium-doped silicon oxides include lithium silicon-aluminum-oxides. In some embodiments, the ion-conducting layer comprises a silicate-based structure. In some embodiments, silicon-aluminum-oxide (SiAlO) is used for the ion-conducting layer 108.

[0077] The electrochromic device 100 may include one or more additional layers (not shown), such as one or more passive layers. A passivation layer for improving certain optical properties may be included in the electrochromic device 100. Passive layers for providing moisture or scratch resistance may also be included in the electrochromic device 100. For example, the conductive layer may be treated with an anti-reflective or protective oxide or nitride layer. Other passive layers may be used to hermetically seal the electrochromic device 100.

[0078] Figure 2A 2 is a schematic cross-section of an electrochromic device in a bleached state (or transitioning to a bleached state). According to a specific embodiment, electrochromic device 200 includes a tungsten oxide electrochromic layer (EC) 206 and a nickel-tungsten oxide counter electrode layer (CE) 210. Electrochromic device 200 also includes substrate 202, conductive layer (CL) 204, ion conductive layer (IC) 208, and conductive layer (CL) 214.

[0079] Power supply 216 is configured to apply a potential and / or current to electrochromic stack 220 through appropriate connections (e.g., bus bars) to conductive layers 204 and 214. In some embodiments, the voltage source is configured to apply a potential of approximately several volts to drive the transition of the device from one optical state to another. Figure 2A The polarity of the potential shown is such that the ions (lithium ions in this example) reside primarily in the nickel-tungsten oxide counter electrode layer 210 (as indicated by the dashed arrows).

[0080] Figure 2B yes Figure 2A Schematic cross section of electrochromic device 200 as shown in FIG but in a colored state (or transitioning to a colored state). Figure 2B In the embodiment of the present invention, the polarity of the voltage source 216 is reversed, making the electrochromic layer more negative to accept additional lithium ions and thus converting to a colored state. As shown by the dotted arrows, the lithium ions are transferred across the ion conductive layer 208 to the tungsten oxide electrochromic layer 206. The tungsten oxide electrochromic layer 206 is shown in a colored state. The nickel-tungsten oxide counter electrode 210 is also shown in a colored state. As explained, the nickel-tungsten oxide gradually becomes more opaque as it gives up (deintercalates) lithium ions. In this example, there is a synergistic effect, wherein the transition to the colored state of both layers 206 and 210 helps to reduce the amount of light transmitted through the stack and substrate.

[0081] As described above, the electrochromic device may comprise an electrochromic (EC) electrode layer and a counter electrode (CE) layer separated by an ion conductive (IC) layer having high conductivity to ions and high resistance to electrons. As conventionally understood, the ion conductive layer therefore prevents a short circuit between the electrochromic layer and the counter electrode layer. The ion conductive layer allows the electrochromic pole and the counter electrode to retain charge, thereby maintaining their bleached or colored state. In electrochromic devices with different layers, the components form a stack comprising an ion conductive layer sandwiched between the electrochromic electrode layer and the counter electrode layer. The boundaries between the three stacked components are defined by abrupt changes in composition and / or microstructure. Thus, these devices have three different layers with two abrupt interfaces.

[0082] According to certain embodiments, the counter electrode and the electrochromic electrode are formed in close proximity to each other, sometimes in direct contact, without separately depositing an ion conductive layer. In some embodiments, an electrochromic device having an interface region rather than different IC layers is used. Such devices and methods for making them are described in the following documents: U.S. Patent No. 8,300,298 and U.S. patent application serial No. 12 / 772,075 filed on April 30, 2010, and U.S. patent application serial Nos. 12 / 814,277 and 12 / 814,279 filed on June 11, 2010, each of which is named "Electrochromic Devices," each of which is named by Zhongchun Wang et al. as inventors, and each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0083] The window controller is used to control the tint level of the electrochromic device of the electrochromic window. In some embodiments, the window controller is capable of transitioning the electrochromic window between two tint states (levels), namely a bleached state and a tinted state. In other embodiments, the controller may additionally transition the electrochromic window (e.g., having a single electrochromic device) to intermediate tint levels. In some disclosed embodiments, the window controller is capable of transitioning the electrochromic window to four or more tint levels. Certain electrochromic windows allow for intermediate tint levels by using two (or more) electrochromic windows in a single IGU, each of which is a dual-state window.

[0084] If the window controller is capable of transitioning each electrochromic device between two states (a bleached state and a tinted state), the electrochromic window can achieve four different states (tint levels): a tinted state in which both electrochromic devices are tinted, a first intermediate state in which one electrochromic device is tinted, a second intermediate state in which the other electrochromic device is tinted, and a bleached state in which both electrochromic devices are bleached. Embodiments of multi-pane electrochromic windows are further described in U.S. Patent No. 8,270,059, to Robin Friedman et al., entitled “MULTI-PANE ELECTROCHROMIC WINDOWS,” which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

[0085] In some embodiments, a window controller is capable of transforming an electrochromic window having an electrochromic device that is capable of transitioning between two or more tint levels. For example, a window controller may be capable of transitioning an electrochromic window to a bleached state, one or more intermediate levels, and a tinted state. In some other embodiments, a window controller is capable of transitioning an electrochromic window comprising an electrochromic device between any number of tint levels between the bleached state and the tinted state. Embodiments of methods and controllers for transitioning an electrochromic window to one or more intermediate tint levels are further described in U.S. Patent No. 8,254,013, entitled “CONTROLLING TRANSITIONS IN OPTICALLY SWITCHABLE DEVICES,” to Disha Mehtani et al., which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

[0086] In some embodiments, a window controller can power one or more electrochromic devices in an electrochromic window. Typically, this functionality of the window controller is enhanced by one or more other functionality described in more detail below. The window controllers described herein are not limited to window controllers having the functionality to power electrochromic devices that are associated with the window controller for control purposes. That is, the power supply for the electrochromic window can be separate from the window controller, where the controller has its own power supply and applies power from the window power supply to the window. However, it is convenient to include the power supply with the window controller and configure the controller to directly power the window because it eliminates the need for separate wiring to power the electrochromic window.

[0087] Furthermore, the window controllers described in this section are described as standalone controllers that can be configured to control the functionality of a single window or multiple electrochromic windows without integrating the window controller into a building control network or building management system (BMS). However, the window controllers can be integrated into a building control network or BMS, as further described in the Building Management System section of this disclosure.

[0088] Figure 3 A block diagram depicting some components of the window controller 350 of the disclosed embodiment and other components of the window controller system. Figure 3 is a simplified block diagram of a window controller, and more details about window controllers can be found in the following documents: U.S. patent application serial numbers 13 / 449,248 and 13 / 449,251, both of which have Stephen Brown as inventor, both of which are entitled "CONTROLLER FOR OPTICALLY-SWITCHABLE WINDOWS" and both of which were filed on April 17, 2012; and U.S. patent application serial number 13 / 449,235, which is entitled "CONTROLLING TRANSITIONS IN OPTICALLY SWITCHABLE DEVICES", which has Stephen Brown et al. as inventor and was filed on April 17, 2012, each of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

[0089] exist Figure 3, the illustrated components of window controller 350 include a microprocessor 355 or other processor, a pulse width modulator 360, a signal conditioning module 365, and a computer-readable medium (e.g., memory) 370 having a configuration file 375. Window controller 350 electronically communicates with one or more electrochromic devices 300 in an electrochromic window via a network 380 (wired or wireless) to send instructions to the one or more electrochromic devices 300. In some embodiments, window controller 350 can be a local window controller that communicates with a master window controller via a network (wired or wireless).

[0090] In the disclosed embodiments, a building may have at least one room having an electrochromic window between the exterior and interior of the building. One or more sensors may be positioned on the exterior of the building and / or inside the room. In an embodiment, the output from the one or more sensors may be input to a signal conditioning module 365 of a window controller 350. In some cases, the output from the one or more sensors may be input to a BMS, as further described in the "Building Management Systems" section. Although the sensors of the depicted embodiments are shown as being located on exterior vertical walls of the building, this is for simplicity and the sensors may be in other locations, such as inside a room or on other exterior surfaces. In some cases, two or more sensors may be used to measure the same input, which may provide redundancy in the event that one sensor fails or has other erroneous readings.

[0091] Figure 4 A schematic (side view) diagram of a room 400 is depicted having an electrochromic window 405 with at least one electrochromic device. The electrochromic window 405 is located between the exterior and interior of a building containing the room 400. The room 400 also includes a window controller 350, which is connected to the electrochromic window 405 and is configured to control the tint level of the electrochromic window. An exterior sensor 410 is located on a vertical surface on the exterior of the building. In other embodiments, the interior sensor can also be used to measure the ambient light in the room 400. In still other embodiments, an occupant sensor can also be used to determine when an occupant is in the room 400.

[0092] The external sensor 410 is a device such as a photosensor that is capable of detecting radiant light incident on the device from a light source such as the sun or light reflected from a surface, particles in the atmosphere, clouds, etc. to the sensor. The external sensor 410 may generate a signal in the form of an electric current resulting from the photoelectric effect, and the signal may be a function of the light incident on the sensor 410. In some cases, the device may generate a signal in the form of a current in watts / m 2In some cases, the device detects radiant light in units of irradiance or other similar units. In other cases, the device may detect light in the visible wavelength range in units of foot-candles or similar units. In many cases, there is a linear relationship between these values ​​of irradiance and visible light.

[0093] In some embodiments, the external sensor 410 is configured to measure infrared light. In some embodiments, the external light sensor is configured to measure infrared light and / or visible light. In some embodiments, the external light sensor 410 may also include a sensor for measuring temperature and / or humidity data. In some embodiments, the intelligent logic may use one or more parameters (e.g., visible light data, infrared light data, humidity data, and temperature data) determined using the external sensor or received from an external network (e.g., a weather station) to determine the presence of blocking clouds and / or quantify the obstruction caused by the clouds. Various methods for detecting clouds using infrared sensors are described in International Patent Application PCT / US17 / 55631, entitled “INFRARED CLOUD DETECTOR SYSTEMS AND METHODS,” filed on October 6, 2017, which designates the United States and is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0094] Because the angle at which sunlight strikes the Earth changes, the irradiance value from sunlight can be predicted based on the time of day and the time of year. External sensor 410 can detect radiant light in real time, accounting for reflections and obstructions due to buildings, weather changes (e.g., clouds), etc. For example, on a cloudy day, sunlight will be obscured by clouds, and the radiant light detected by external sensor 410 will be lower than on a cloudless day.

[0095] In some embodiments, there may be one or more external sensors 410 associated with a single electrochromic window 405. The outputs from one or more external sensors 410 may be compared to determine, for example, whether one of the external sensors 410 is obscured by an object, such as a bird that has landed on the external sensor 410. In some cases, relatively few sensors may be needed in a building because some sensors may be unreliable and / or expensive. In certain embodiments, a single sensor or several sensors may be used to determine the current level of radiant light from the sun that is shining on the building or possibly on one side of the building. Clouds may pass in front of the sun, or construction vehicles may be parked in front of the setting sun. These will result in deviations from the calculated amount of radiant light from the sun that normally shines on the building.

[0096] The external sensor 410 can be a type of photosensor. For example, the external sensor 410 can be a charge coupled device (CCD), a photodiode, a photoresistor, or a photovoltaic cell. One of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that future developments in light sensors and other sensor technologies will also be useful because they measure light intensity and provide an electrical output representative of the light level.

[0097] In some embodiments, the output from the external sensor 410 can be input to the signal conditioning module 365. The input can be in the form of a voltage signal to the signal conditioning module 365. The signal conditioning module 365 passes the output signal to the window controller 350. The window controller 350 determines the tint level of the electrochromic window 405 based on various information from the configuration file 375, the output from the signal conditioning module 365, and / or an override value. The window controller 350 then instructs the PWM 360 to apply a voltage and / or current to the electrochromic window 405 to transition to the desired tint level.

[0098] In the disclosed embodiment, the window controller 250 can instruct the PWM 260 to apply a voltage and / or current to the electrochromic window 405 to transition it to any of four or more different tint levels. In the disclosed embodiment, the electrochromic window 405 can transition to at least eight different tint levels, described as: 0 (lightest), 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, and 35 (darkest). The tint levels can linearly correspond to the visual transmittance values ​​and solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC) values ​​of light passing through the electrochromic window 405. For example, using the eight hue levels described above, the lightest hue level 0 may correspond to a SHGC value of 0.80, hue level 5 may correspond to a SHGC value of 0.70, hue level 10 may correspond to a SHGC value of 0.60, hue level 15 may correspond to a SHGC value of 0.50, hue level 20 may correspond to a SHGC value of 0.40, hue level 25 may correspond to a SHGC value of 0.30, hue level 30 may correspond to a SHGC value of 0.20, and hue level 35 (darkest) may correspond to a SHGC value of 0.10.

[0099] The window controller 350, or a master controller in communication with the window controller 350, can use any one or more predictive control logic components to determine the desired tint level based on signals from the external sensor 410 and / or other inputs. The window controller 350 can instruct the PWM 360 to apply voltage and / or current to the electrochromic window 405 to convert it to the desired tint level.

[0100] The window controllers described herein are also suitable for integration with or within / being part of a BMS. A BMS is a computer-based control system that is installed in a building to monitor and control the building's mechanical and electrical equipment, such as ventilation, lighting, power systems, elevators, fire protection systems, and security systems. A BMS consists of hardware, which includes interconnection with one or more computers via a communication channel; and associated software, which is used to maintain conditions in the building according to preferences set by the occupants and / or building managers. For example, a BMS can be implemented using a local area network such as Ethernet. The software can be based on, for example, Internet protocols and / or open standards. An example is software from Tridium Corporation (Richmond, Virginia). One communication protocol commonly used with a BMS is the Building Automation and Control Network (BACnet).

[0101] BMSs are most common in larger buildings and are typically used to control at least the environment within the building. For example, a BMS can control the temperature, CO2 levels, and humidity within the building. Typically, there are many mechanical devices controlled by the BMS, such as heaters, air conditioners, blowers, vents, etc. To control the building environment, the BMS can turn these various devices on and off under defined conditions. The core function of a typical modern BMS is to maintain a comfortable environment for the building's occupants while minimizing heating and cooling costs / demand. Therefore, a modern BMS is used not only to monitor and control, but also to optimize the synergy between various systems, for example, to save energy and reduce building operating costs.

[0102] In some embodiments, the window controller is integrated with a BMS, where the window controller is configured to control one or more electrochromic windows (e.g., 405) or other tintable windows. In other embodiments, the window controller is within or part of a BMS, and the BMS controls the functionality of the tintable windows and other building systems. In one example, the BMS can control the functionality of all building systems, including one or more zones of tintable windows in the building.

[0103] In some embodiments, each tintable window of the one or more zones comprises at least one solid-state and inorganic electrochromic device. In one embodiment, each tintable window of the one or more zones is an electrochromic window having one or more solid-state and inorganic electrochromic devices. In one embodiment, the one or more tintable windows comprise at least one all-solid-state and inorganic electrochromic device, but may comprise more than one electrochromic device, such as where each pane or window of the IGU is tintable. In one embodiment, the electrochromic windows are multi-state electrochromic windows, as described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12 / 851,514, filed Aug. 5, 2010, and entitled “Multipane Electrochromic Windows.” Figure 5 A schematic diagram depicts an example of a building 501 and a BMS 505, which manages multiple building systems, including security systems, heating / ventilation / air conditioning (HVAC), building lighting, electrical systems, elevators, fire protection systems, and the like. The security system may include magnetic card access, turnstiles, electromagnetically actuated door locks, surveillance cameras, burglar alarms, metal detectors, and the like. The fire protection system may include a fire alarm and fire suppression system, including water pipe control. The lighting system may include interior lighting, exterior lighting, emergency warning lights, emergency exit signs, and emergency floor exit lighting. The electrical system may include a main power supply, backup generators, and an uninterruptible power supply (UPS) grid.

[0104] Additionally, the BMS 505 manages the window control system 502. The window control system 502 is a distributed network of window controllers that includes a master controller 503, network controllers 507a and 507b, and terminal or leaf end controllers 508. The terminal or leaf end controllers 508 may be similar to those described with respect to FIG. Figure 3 50. For example, a master controller 503 may be located near the BMS 505, and each floor of the building 501 may have one or more network controllers 507a and 507b, while each window of the building has its own terminal controller 508. In this example, each of the controllers 508 controls a specific electrochromic window of the building 501. The window control system 502 communicates with the cloud network 510 to receive data. For example, the window control system 502 may receive schedule information from a clear sky model maintained on the cloud network 510. Although Figure 5 5. The main controller 503 is described as being separate from the BMS 505, but in another embodiment the main controller 503 is part of or within the BMS 505.

[0105] Each controller 508 may be located separately from the electrochromic window it controls, or may be integrated into the electrochromic window. For simplicity, only ten electrochromic windows of building 501 are depicted as being controlled by master window controller 502. In a typical setup, there may be a large number of electrochromic windows in a building controlled by window control system 502. Where appropriate, this is described in more detail below and with respect to Figure 5 Advantages and features of an electrochromic window controller and BMS as described herein are described and appreciated.

[0106] One aspect of the disclosed embodiments is a BMS that includes a multi-purpose electrochromic window controller as described herein. By incorporating feedback from the electrochromic window controller, the BMS can provide, for example, enhanced: 1) environmental control, 2) energy savings, 3) safety, 4) flexibility of control options, 5) improved reliability and lifespan of other systems due to less reliance and less maintenance, 6) information availability and diagnostics, 7) efficient use of personnel and higher productivity, and various combinations of these. In some embodiments, the BMS may not be present or the BMS may be present but may not communicate with the main controller or may communicate with the main controller at a high level. In certain embodiments, maintenance on the BMS does not interrupt control of the electrochromic windows.

[0107] In some cases, the BMS 505 or other building network can operate according to a daily, monthly, quarterly, or annual schedule. For example, lighting control systems, window control systems, HVAC, and security systems can operate based on a 24-hour schedule that takes into account when people are in the building during the workday. At night, the building can enter an energy-saving mode, and during the day, the system can operate in a manner that minimizes the building's energy consumption while providing occupant comfort. As another example, the system can be shut down or enter an energy-saving mode during holidays.

[0108] BMS schedules can be combined with geographic information. The geographic information can include the latitude and longitude of the building. The geographic information can also include information about the direction each side of the building faces. Using such information, different rooms on different sides of a building can be controlled in different ways. For example, for an east-facing room in a building in winter, the window controller can indicate that the windows have no tint in the morning so that the room warms up due to sunlight shining into the room, and the lighting control panel can indicate that the lights are dimmed due to sunlight shining into the room. The west-facing windows can be controlled by the occupants of the room in the morning because the tints on the west-facing windows may have no effect on energy savings. However, the operating modes of the east-facing windows and the west-facing windows can be switched in the evening (for example, when the sun sets, the west-facing windows are untinted to allow sunlight to enter for heating and lighting).

[0109] The following describes an example of a building, such as Figure 5 FIG. 5 shows a building 501 in FIG. 5 , which includes a building network or BMS, tintable windows for exterior windows (i.e., windows that separate the building's interior from the building's exterior), and a number of different sensors. Light from the building's exterior windows typically affects interior lighting within the building within about 20 or 30 feet of the windows. That is, spaces within the building that are more than about 20 or 30 feet from the exterior windows receive very little light from the exterior windows. Such spaces farther from the building's exterior windows are illuminated by the building's lighting system.

[0110] In addition, the temperature inside a building can be affected by external light and / or external temperature. For example, in cold weather and when the building is heated by a heating system, rooms closer to doors and / or windows will lose heat faster than the interior areas of the building and will be cooler than the interior areas.

[0111] For external sensors, a building may include external sensors on the roof of the building. Alternatively, a building may include external sensors associated with each external window (e.g., as described with respect to FIG. Figure 4 Room 400) or exterior sensors on each side of the building. Exterior sensors on each side of the building can track the irradiance on one side of the building as the sun changes position throughout the day.

[0112] When the window controller is integrated into a building network or BMS, the output from the external sensor 410 can be input into the BMS network and provided as input to the local window controller 350. For example, in some embodiments, output signals from any two or more sensors are received. In some embodiments, only one output signal is received, and in some other embodiments, three, four, five, or more outputs are received. These output signals can be received via the building network or BMS.

[0113] In some embodiments, the received output signal includes a signal indicating the energy or power consumption of the heating system, cooling system, and / or lighting within the building. For example, the energy or power consumption of the heating system, cooling system, and / or lighting of a building can be monitored to provide a signal indicating the energy or power consumption. The device can interface with or be attached to the electrical circuits and / or wiring of the building to enable such monitoring. Alternatively, the electrical system in the building can be installed so that the power consumed by the heating system, cooling system, and / or lighting of individual rooms within the building or a group of rooms within the building can be monitored.

[0114] A tint instruction may be provided to change the tint of a tintable window to a determined level of tint. For example, referring to Figure 5, this may include a master controller 503 issuing commands to one or more network controllers 507a and 507b, which in turn issue commands to terminal controllers 508 that control each window of the building. The terminal controllers 508 may apply voltage and / or current to the windows to drive the change in tint according to the instructions.

[0115] In some embodiments, a building that includes electrochromic windows and a BMS can join or participate in a demand response program run by a utility that provides electricity to the building. The program can be a program that reduces the building's energy consumption when a peak load is expected to occur. The utility can send a warning signal before the peak load is expected to occur. For example, the warning can be sent the day before the expected peak load occurs, the morning of the expected peak load occurs, or about an hour before the expected peak load occurs. For example, a peak load can be expected to occur on a hot summer day when the cooling system / air conditioning draws a large amount of electricity from the utility. The warning signal can be received by the building's BMS, or by a window controller configured to control the electrochromic windows in the building. The BMS can then instruct the window controller to convert the appropriate electrochromic device in the electrochromic window 405 to a dark tint level to help reduce the power consumption of the cooling system in the building when the peak load is expected.

[0116] In some embodiments, tintable windows for exterior windows of a building (i.e., windows that separate the interior of a building from the exterior of the building) can be grouped into zones, with the tintable windows in a zone being indicated in a similar manner. For example, groups of electrochromic windows on different floors of a building or on different sides of a building can be in different zones. For example, on the first floor of a building, all east-facing electrochromic windows can be in Zone 1, all south-facing electrochromic windows can be in Zone 2, all west-facing electrochromic windows can be in Zone 3, and all north-facing electrochromic windows can be in Zone 4. As another example, all electrochromic windows on the first floor of a building can be in Zone 1, all electrochromic windows on the second floor can be in Zone 2, and all electrochromic windows on the third floor can be in Zone 3. As another example, all east-facing electrochromic windows can be in zone 1, all south-facing electrochromic windows can be in zone 2, all west-facing electrochromic windows can be in zone 3, and all north-facing electrochromic windows can be in zone 4. As another example, the east-facing electrochromic windows on one floor can be divided into different zones. Any number of tintable windows on the same side and / or different sides and / or different floors of a building can be assigned to zones. In embodiments where individual tintable windows have independently controllable zones, combinations of zones of individual windows can be used to form tinted zones on a building facade, for example, where an individual window may or may not have all of its zones tinted.

[0117] In some embodiments, the electrochromic windows in a zone can be controlled by the same window controller. In some other embodiments, the electrochromic windows in a zone can be controlled by different window controllers, but the window controllers can all receive the same output signal from the sensor and use the same function or lookup table to determine the tint level of the windows in the zone.

[0118] In some embodiments, the electrochromic windows in a zone can be controlled by one or more window controllers that receive output signals from a transmittance sensor. In some embodiments, the transmittance sensor can be mounted proximate to the windows in the zone. For example, the transmittance sensor can be mounted in or on a frame containing an IGU (e.g., in or on a mullion, which is the horizontal window frame of the frame) that is included in the zone. In some other embodiments, the electrochromic windows in a zone that includes windows on a single side of a building can be controlled by one or more window controllers that receive output signals from the transmittance sensor.

[0119] In some embodiments, a sensor (e.g., a light sensor) can provide an output signal to a window controller to control the electrochromic window 405 of a first zone (e.g., a master control zone). The window controller can also control the electrochromic window 405 in a second zone (e.g., a slave control zone) in the same manner as the first zone. In some other embodiments, another window controller can control the electrochromic window 405 in the second zone in the same manner as the first zone.

[0120] In some embodiments, a building manager, an occupant of a room in the second zone, or another person can manually instruct (e.g., using a tint or transparency command or a command from a user console of the BMS) the electrochromic windows in the second zone (i.e., the slave control zone) to enter a tint level, such as a tinted state (level) or a transparent state. In some embodiments, when this manual command is used to override the tint level of the windows in the second zone, the electrochromic windows in the first zone (i.e., the master control zone) remain under the control of the window controller receiving output from the transmittance sensor. The second zone can remain in manual command mode for a period of time and then revert back to being controlled by the window controller receiving output from the transmittance sensor. For example, the second zone can remain in manual mode for one hour after receiving the override command and then revert back to being controlled by the window controller receiving output from the transmittance sensor.

[0121] In some embodiments, a building manager, an occupant of a room in a first zone, or other personnel can manually instruct (using, for example, a tint command or a command from a user console of the BMS) the windows in the first zone (i.e., the master control zone) to enter a tint level, such as a tinted state or a transparent state. In some embodiments, when this manual command is applied to override the tint level of the windows in the first zone, the electrochromic windows in the second zone (i.e., the slave control zone) remain under the control of the window controller receiving output from the external sensor. The first zone can remain in manual command mode for a period of time and then revert back to being controlled by the window controller receiving output from the transmittance sensor. For example, the first zone can remain in manual mode for one hour after receiving the override command and then revert back to being controlled by the window controller receiving output from the transmittance sensor. In some other embodiments, when the manual override for the first zone is received, the electrochromic windows in the second zone can remain in the tint level they were in. The first zone may remain in the manual command mode for a period of time and then both the first zone and the second zone may be restored back under the control of the window controller receiving output from the transmittance sensor.

[0122] Regardless of whether the window controller is a stand-alone window controller or is interfaced with a building network, any of the methods of controlling a tintable window described herein may be used to control the tint of the tintable window.

[0123] In some embodiments, the window controllers described herein include components for wired or wireless communication between the window controller, sensors, and individual communication nodes. Wireless or wired communication can be implemented using a communication interface that interfaces directly with the window controller. Such an interface can be native to the microprocessor or provided by additional circuitry that implements these functions. Additionally, other systems in the site network can include components for wired or wireless communication between different system elements.

[0124] The separate communication node used for wireless communication can be, for example, another wireless window controller, a terminal, an intermediate or master window controller, a remote control device, or a BMS. Wireless communication is used in the window controller for at least one of the following operations: programming and / or operating the electrochromic window 405, collecting data from the EC window 405 from the various sensors and protocols described herein, and using the electrochromic window 405 as a relay point for wireless communication. The data collected from the electrochromic window 405 can also include count data, such as the number of times the EC device has been activated, the efficiency of the EC device over time, and so on. These wireless communication features are described in more detail below.

[0125] In one embodiment, wireless communication is used to operate the associated electrochromic window 405, for example, via infrared (IR) and / or radio frequency (RF) signals. In certain embodiments, the controller will include a wireless protocol chip, such as Bluetooth, EnOcean, Wi-Fi, Zigbee, etc. The window controller may also have wireless communication via a network. Input to the window controller may be manually entered by the end user at a wall switch, either directly or via wireless communication, or input may come from the BMS of the building of which the electrochromic window is a component.

[0126] In one embodiment, when the window controller is part of a distributed network of controllers, wireless communication is used to transmit data to each of the plurality of electrochromic windows via the distributed network of controllers, each controller having wireless communication components. For example, see again Figure 5 , master controller 503 wirelessly communicates with each of network controllers 507a and 507b, which in turn wirelessly communicate with terminal controllers 508, each associated with an electrochromic window. Master controller 503 may also wirelessly communicate with BMS 505. In one embodiment, at least one level of communication among the window controllers is performed wirelessly.

[0127] In some embodiments, more than one mode of wireless communication is used within a distributed network of window controllers. For example, a master window controller may communicate wirelessly with an intermediate controller via Wi-Fi or Zigbee, while the intermediate controller communicates with the end controller via Bluetooth, Zigbee, EnOcean, or other protocols. In another example, the window controllers may have redundant wireless communication systems to provide flexibility for end users in choosing wireless communication.

[0128] Wireless communication between, for example, a master window controller and / or an intermediate window controller and a terminal window controller offers the advantage of avoiding the installation of hard communication lines. The same is true for wireless communication between a window controller and a BMS. In one aspect, wireless communication in these roles can be used to transmit data to and from the electrochromic windows for operating the windows and providing data to, for example, a BMS to optimize the environment and energy savings in the building. Window position data and feedback from sensors are used in conjunction for such optimization. For example, granular level (window by window) microclimate information is fed to the BMS in order to optimize the various environments of the building.

[0129] Figure 6 is a method for controlling a building (e.g., Figure 5 5. The system 600 is a block diagram of components of a system 600 for enabling functionality (e.g., transitioning to different tint levels) of one or more tintable windows of a building 501 shown in FIG. The system 600 may be implemented by a BMS (e.g., Figure 5The system may be one of the systems managed by the BMS 505 shown in FIG, or may operate independently of the BMS.

[0130] System 600 includes a window control system 602 having a network of window controllers that can send control signals to tintable windows to control their functions. System 600 also includes a network 601 in electronic communication with a master controller 603. Predictive control logic, other control logic and instructions for controlling the functions of the tintable windows, sensor data, and / or schedule information related to clear sky models can be transmitted to master window controller 603 via network 601. Network 601 can be a wired or wireless network (e.g., a cloud network). In one embodiment, network 601 can communicate with a building management system (BMS) to allow the BMS to send instructions for controlling one or more tintable windows to one or more tintable windows in a building via network 601.

[0131] System 600 also includes an EC device 680 for a tintable window (not shown) and optional wall switches 690, each of which is in electronic communication with a master controller 603. In this illustrated example, master controller 603 can send control signals to EC device 680 to control the tint level of the tintable window having EC device 680. Each wall switch 690 is also in communication with EC window 680 and master controller 603. An end user (e.g., an occupant of a room with tintable windows) can use wall switches 690 to input and control the tint level and other functions of the tintable window having EC device 680.

[0132] exist Figure 6 , a window control system 602 is depicted as a distributed network of window controllers including a master controller 603, a plurality of network controllers 606 in communication with the master controller 603, and a plurality of terminal or window controllers 610. The plurality of terminal or window controllers 610 each communicate with a single network controller 606. Figure 6 The components of the system 600 shown in FIG. 6 may be similar in some respects to those of the reference system 600. Figure 5 For example, main controller 603 may be similar to main controller 503 , and network controller 606 may be similar to network controller 507 . Figure 6 Each of the window controllers in the distributed network may include a processor (eg, a microprocessor) and a computer-readable medium in electronic communication with the processor.

[0133] exist Figure 6In the embodiment, each leaf or end window controller 610 communicates with one or more EC devices 680 of a single tintable window to control the tint level of said tintable window in the building. In the case of an IGU, the leaf or end window controller 610 may communicate with EC devices 680 on multiple panes of the IGU to control the tint level of the IGU. In other embodiments, each leaf or end window controller 610 may communicate with multiple tintable windows. The leaf or end window controller 610 may be integrated into the tintable window or may be separate from the tintable window that it controls. In the embodiment, Figure 6 The leaf and terminal window controllers 610 in the Figure 5 The terminal or leaf controller 508 in the embodiment and / or the like may also be similar to that described with respect to Figure 3 Window controller 350 is described.

[0134] In some cases, the signal from the wall switch 690 may override the signal from the window control system 602. In other conditions (e.g., high demand conditions), the control signal from the window control system 602 may override the control signal from the wall switch 690. Each wall switch 690 also communicates with the leaf or end window controller 610 to send information about the control signal sent from the wall switch 690 (e.g., time, date, requested tint level, etc.) back to the master window controller 603. In some cases, the wall switch 690 may be manually operated. In other cases, the wall switch 690 may be wirelessly controlled by an end user using a remote device (e.g., a cell phone, tablet, etc.) that sends wireless communications with the control signal using, for example, infrared (IR) and / or radio frequency (RF) signals. In some cases, the wall switch 690 may include a wireless protocol chip, such as Bluetooth, EnOcean, Wi-Fi, Zigbee, etc. Although Figure 6 The wall switches 690 depicted in FIG6 are positioned on one or more walls, but other embodiments of the system 600 may have switches positioned elsewhere in the room.

[0135] In certain embodiments, the control logic described herein uses filtered sensor values ​​based on temperature readings from one or more infrared sensors and from an ambient temperature sensor to determine cloud conditions in the morning and evening and / or just before sunrise. The one or more infrared sensors typically operate independently of sunlight levels, allowing the tinting control logic to determine cloud conditions before sunrise and determine and maintain appropriate tint levels in the morning and evening as the sun sets. Additionally, filtered sensor values ​​based on temperature readings from the one or more infrared sensors can be used to determine cloud conditions even when the visible light photosensor is shaded or otherwise obscured.

[0136] Figure 7is a schematic diagram of a window controller and associated components. In the illustrated example, the window controller 724 can be deployed as, for example, a "pluggable" interface 750 that can be easily removed from the EC device 780 (e.g., for ease of repair, manufacturing, or replacement). In some embodiments, the window controller 724 communicates with the network controller via a communication bus 762. For example, the communication bus 762 can be designed according to the controller area network (CAN) vehicle bus standard. In such embodiments, the first electrical input 752 can be connected to a first power line 764, and the second electrical input 754 can be connected to a second power line 766. In some embodiments, as described above, the power signals sent on the power lines 764 and 766 are complementary; that is, they collectively represent a differential signal (e.g., a differential voltage signal). In some embodiments, line 768 couples the third electrical input 756 to the system or building ground (e.g., earth ground). In such embodiments, communications on the CAN bus 762 (e.g., between the microcontroller 774 and the network controller 706) may proceed according to the CANopen communication protocol or other suitable open, proprietary, or overlay communication protocols along first and second communication lines 770 and 772, respectively, transmitted via the electrical inputs / outputs 758 and 760. In some embodiments, the communication signals sent on the communication lines 770 and 772 are complementary; that is, they collectively represent a differential signal (e.g., a differential voltage signal).

[0137] In some embodiments, component 750 couples the CAN communication bus 762 to the window controller 724, and in certain embodiments, to the microcontroller 774. In some such embodiments, the microcontroller 774 is also configured to implement the CANopen communication protocol. The microcontroller 774 is also designed or configured (e.g., programmed) to implement one or more drive control algorithms in conjunction with a pulse width modulated amplifier or pulse width modulator (PWM) 776, smart logic 778, and signal conditioner 779. In some embodiments, the microcontroller 774 is configured to generate a command signal V, for example, in the form of a voltage signal. 命令 , which is then transmitted to the PWM 776. The PWM 776 then generates a voltage based on V 命令 Generates a pulse width modulated power signal comprising a first (eg, positive) component V PW1 and a second (eg, negative) component V PW2 Then, the power signal V PW1 and V PW2 The signal V is transmitted to the EC device 780 via, for example, the interface 788 to produce the desired optical transition in the electrochromic device 780. In some embodiments, the PWM 776 is configured to modify the duty cycle of the pulse width modulated signal such that the signal V PW1 and V PW2The duration of the pulses in the PWM are not equal: for example, the PWM 776 pulse V PW1 With the first 60% duty cycle, and pulse V PW2 The duration of the first duty cycle and the duration of the second duty cycle together represent the duration of each power cycle t PWM In some embodiments, PWM 776 may additionally or alternatively modify the signal pulse V PW1 and V PW2 The value of .

[0138] In some embodiments, the microcontroller 774 is configured to generate a voltage or current feedback signal V based on one or more factors or signals (e.g., any signal received via the CAN bus 762 and the voltage or current feedback signal V generated by the PWM 776, respectively). FB and I FB ) Generate V 命令 In some embodiments, the microcontroller 774 is based on the feedback signal I FB or V FB Determine the current or voltage level in the electrochromic device 780 and adjust V according to one or more of the above rules or algorithms 命令 To achieve relative pulse duration (e.g., relative duration of the first and second duty cycles) or power signal V PW1 and V PW2 Additionally or alternatively, the microcontroller 774 may also adjust V in response to a signal received from the smart logic 778 or the signal conditioner 779. 命令 For example, the signal conditioner 779 may be responsive to a signal from one or more networked or non-networked devices or sensors (e.g., an external photosensor or photodetector 792, an internal photosensor or photodetector 794, a heat or temperature sensor 796, or a color tone command signal V TC ) feedback to generate the regulation signal V 调整器 For example, signal conditioner 779 and V 调整器 Additional embodiments of are also described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13 / 449,235, filed Apr. 17, 2012, and previously incorporated by reference.

[0139] In certain embodiments, V TC V may be an analog voltage signal between 0V and 10V that can be used or adjusted by a user (e.g., a resident or staff member) to dynamically adjust the color tone of the EC device 780 (e.g., a user may use a controller in a room or area of ​​the building 501 similar to a thermostat to fine-tune or modify the color tone of the EC device 780 in the room or area), thereby introducing dynamic user input into the determination of V 命令For example, when set within the range of 0 to 2.5V, V TC can be used to force the transition to the 5% T state, and when set in the range of 2.51 to 5V, V TC can be used to force a transition to the 20% T state, and similarly for other ranges such as 5.1 to 7.5V and 7.51 to 10V, as well as other ranges and voltage examples. In some embodiments, the signal conditioner 779 receives the above signal or other signals via the communication bus or interface 790. In some embodiments, the PWM 776 also generates a voltage signal based on the signal V received from the smart logic 778. 智能 Generate V 命令 In some embodiments, the smart logic 778 transmits V over a communication bus such as an Inter-Integrated Circuit (I2C) multi-master serial single-ended computer bus. 智能 In some other embodiments, the smart logic 778 communicates with the memory device 282 via the 1-WIRE device communication bus system protocol (developed by Dallas Semiconductor, Inc. of Dallas, Texas).

[0140] In some embodiments, the microcontroller 774 includes a processor, chip, card or board, or a combination of these, which includes logic for performing one or more control functions. The power and communication functions of the microcontroller 774 can be combined in a single chip, such as a programmable logic device (PLD) chip or a field programmable gate array (FPGA) or similar logic. Such integrated circuits can combine logic functions, control functions, and power functions in a single programmable chip.

[0141] In some embodiments, microcontroller 774 can be communicatively coupled to a private or public network including, for example, the Internet. In the illustrated example, microcontroller 774 includes input / output 763 and 765, which can provide Ethernet and Wi-Fi interfaces with such cloud networks, respectively.

[0142] Typically, the logic for controlling the transformation of the electrochromic device can be designed or configured with hardware and / or software. In other words, the instructions for controlling the drive circuit system can be hard-coded or provided as software. It can be said that the instructions are provided by "programming". This programming is understood to include any form of logic, including hard-coded logic in digital signal processors and other devices with specific algorithms implemented as hardware. Programming is also understood to include software or firmware instructions that can be executed on a general-purpose processor. In some embodiments, the instructions for controlling the application of voltage to the bus bar are stored on a memory device associated with the controller or provided over a network. Examples of suitable memory devices include semiconductor memory, magnetic memory, optical memory, etc. The computer program code for controlling the applied voltage can be written in any conventional computer-readable programming language, such as assembly language, C, C++, Pascal, Fortran, etc. The compiled object code or script is executed by the processor to perform the tasks identified in the program.

[0143] As described above, in some embodiments, the microcontroller 774 or window controller 724 generally may also have wireless capabilities, such as wireless control and power capabilities. For example, wireless control signals such as radio frequency (RF) signals or infrared (IR) signals and wireless communication protocols such as Wi-Fi (described above), Bluetooth, Zigbee, EnOcean, etc. can be used to send instructions to the microcontroller 774, and the microcontroller 774 can send data to, for example, other window controllers, the network controller 706, or directly to the BMS 705. In various embodiments, wireless communication can be used to program or operate the electrochromic device 780, collect data or receive input from the electrochromic device 780, collect data or receive input from sensors, and use the window controller 724 as a relay point for other wireless communications. The data collected from the EC device 780 can also include count data, such as the number of times the electrochromic device 780 has been activated (cycled), the efficiency of the EC device 780 over time, and other useful data or performance metrics.

[0144] The window controller 724 may also have wireless power capabilities. For example, the window controller may have one or more wireless power receivers that receive transmissions from one or more wireless power transmitters; and one or more wireless power transmitters that transmit power transmissions, such that the window controller 724 is able to wirelessly receive power and wirelessly distribute power to the electrochromic device 780. Wireless power transmission includes, for example, induction, resonant induction, RF power transfer, microwave power transfer, and laser power transfer. For example, U.S. patent application serial number 12 / 971,576 (attorney docket number SLDMP003), entitled “WIRELESS POWERED ELECTROCHROMIC WINDOWS,” filed on December 17, 2010, and in which Rozbicki is an inventor, describes in detail various embodiments of wireless power capabilities, which patent application is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0145] In some embodiments, cloud-based technologies for monitoring and managing multiple sites incorporating light-switchable electrochromic devices are contemplated. As the term is used herein and in the claims, "cloud-based" means that at least some of the computing and / or data storage resources used in the disclosed technology reside in one or more remote servers, rather than one or more monitored sites. In some embodiments, a network application programming interface (API) used by a local network at a building site where electrochromic devices are located can be interfaced with a cloud-based site monitoring system and / or a cloud-based master network controller. Using the API, the health and status of the electrochromic devices and associated local network devices can be monitored and controlled. For example, the desired CAN bus control settings can be determined remotely and transmitted to the API over the Internet by means of HTTP.

[0146] Figure 8An example of a site monitoring and control system according to an embodiment is shown. In the illustrated example, the site monitoring and control system 800 interfaces with a plurality of monitored sites—sites 1-5. Each site has one or more switchable optical devices, such as electrochromic windows, and one or more controllers designed or configured to control the switching of the windows. The site monitoring and control system 800 also interfaces with a plurality of client machines—clients 1-4. The clients can be workstations, portable computers, mobile devices such as smartphones, and the like, each capable of presenting information about the operation of the devices at the site. Personnel associated with the site monitoring and control system 800 can access this information from one or more of the clients. In some cases, the clients are configured to communicate with each other. In some embodiments, personnel associated with one or more sites can access a subset of the information through the clients. In various embodiments, the client machines run one or more applications designed or configured to present views and analyses of optical device information for some or all of the sites.

[0147] The site monitoring and control system 800 may include various hardware and / or software configurations. In the depicted embodiment, the system 800 includes a site interface 813, an application server 815, and a reporting server 817. The site interface 813 can communicate directly with the site and may include a data warehouse for storing data received from the site. For example, data from the site may be stored in a relational database or other data storage arrangement. In one embodiment, the data is stored in a database or other data repository, such as Oracle DB, Sequel DB, or a custom-designed database. The site interface 813 can obtain information from and send commands to any of a number of entities, such as a primary network controller at the site. The application server 815 and the reporting server 817 interface with clients to provide application services and reports, respectively. In one embodiment, the reporting server runs Tableau, Jump, Actuate, or a custom-designed report generator. In the depicted embodiment, the site interface 813 and the application server 815 each provide information to the reporting server 817. The communication between the site interface 813 and the application server 815 is bidirectional, as is the communication between the site interface 813 and the reporting server 817 and between the application server 815 and the reporting server 817.

[0148] As described above, a site may include: (a) a plurality of switchable optical devices (e.g., a plurality of switchable optical devices), each of which is directly controlled by a (window) controller; (b) a plurality of sensors, such as lighting sensors; and (c) one or more higher-level controllers, such as a network controller and a master network controller. In some embodiments, the higher-level controller (e.g., Figure 5Some or all of the functions of the master controller 503) are provided by the site monitoring and control system 800. Therefore, the site master controller can be greatly simplified or even eliminated.

[0149] In some embodiments, a site monitoring and control system may include a hierarchy of controllers. Figure 6 An example of a controller hierarchy is shown that includes three hierarchical levels, where (1) the lowest level includes one or more local window controllers (e.g., 601), (2) the middle level includes one or more network controllers (e.g., 606), and (3) the highest level includes a master controller 603. The hierarchy can include two or more levels. The hierarchy can include a master controller, a facility controller, a building controller, a floor controller, and / or a local controller. A local controller can be coupled (e.g., directly) to one or more devices. For example, a local controller can be coupled to (e.g., control) at least 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 12, 24, or 48 devices. A local controller can be coupled to (e.g., control) any number of devices between the above numbers (e.g., from 1 to 48, from 1 to 8, from 1 to 12, or from 1 to 24 devices). Coupling can include communication coupling. Coupling can be wired and / or wireless coupling. Coupling can include optical coupling or electrical coupling. Wireless coupling can include the use of one or more antennas. Wireless coupling can include the transmission of optical signals or audio signals. Optical coupling can include infrared radiation. The network controller may be a floor and / or building controller.

[0150] In some embodiments, a hierarchical level of the monitoring and control system includes physical circuitry. The physical circuitry may include a controller. The physical circuitry may include a processor. The physical circuitry may include a circuit board. The circuitry may be complex (e.g., a computer) or less complex (e.g., a controllable switch). The controllable switch may be communicatively controlled (e.g., signal-controlled). The controllable switch may be controlled by a signal (e.g., an electrical signal, an audio signal, and / or a light signal) transmitted through a wiring network. A communicatively controlled switch may be different from a wall switch (e.g., 690). A communicatively controlled switch may be different from a manual switch. A higher-level circuitry may include more complex circuitry than a lower-level circuitry. For example, a master controller may include a computer, while a local controller may be a switch. The circuitry at at least one higher level in the hierarchy may be more complex than the lowest level (e.g., including the local controller). In some embodiments, the complexity of the circuitry may be hierarchically structured, with the highest level (e.g., including the master controller) having the highest circuitry complexity and the lower levels (e.g., including the local controller) having the lowest circuitry complexity. The physical circuitry may include memory and / or data storage. Memory can hold more or less data. Memory coupled to a higher-level circuit system can hold more data than memory of a lower-level circuit system. For example, a master controller can hold more data in its memory than memory of a local controller. Memory coupled to at least one higher-level circuit system in the hierarchy (e.g., a portion thereof) can hold more data than memory of a lowest-level hierarchical system (e.g., including a local controller). In some embodiments, the amount of data held by memory coupled to (e.g., as a portion of) a circuit system can be hierarchically organized, with the highest-level hierarchy (e.g., including the master controller) having the highest memory capacity and the lower-level hierarchy (e.g., including the local controller) having the lowest memory capacity. Data storage units can hold more or less data. Data storage units coupled to a higher-level circuit system can hold more data than data storage units of a lower-level circuit system. For example, a master controller can hold more data in its data storage units than data storage units of a local controller. Data storage units coupled to at least one higher-level circuit system in the hierarchy (e.g., a portion thereof) can hold more data than memory of a lowest-level hierarchical system (e.g., including a local controller). In some embodiments, the amount of data retained by a data storage unit coupled to (e.g., as part of) a circuit system can be arranged in a corresponding hierarchy, where the highest hierarchy (e.g., including a master controller) has the highest data storage capacity and the lower hierarchies (e.g., including local controllers) have the lowest data storage capacity.

[0151] In some embodiments, a site monitoring and control system may include a controller hierarchy that controls one or more devices. The devices may be located in a facility. The facility may include one or more buildings. The site monitoring and control system may include or be coupled to a communications network and / or a power network. The communications network and / or the power network may include one or more wires. The wires may include optical fibers or electrical wires. The wires may include coaxial cables or twisted pairs. The communications network may include antennas (e.g., receiving antennas and / or transmitting antennas), transmitters, transceivers, receivers, or routers. The network may include or be coupled to a building management system.

[0152] In some embodiments, at least one controller (e.g., including circuitry) associated with at least one level of the hierarchy may be located outside the facility. For example, controllers associated with multiple hierarchical control levels may be located (e.g., physically located) outside the facility. For example, controllers associated with one or more higher-level control levels may be located (e.g., physically located) outside the facility. For example, (e.g., only) one or more controllers associated with the lowest control level may be located within the facility. For example, (e.g., only) one or more controllers associated with the lowest control level may be physically located within the facility. For example, only controllers associated with a single level in the hierarchy may be physically located within the facility. For example, (e.g., only) controllers associated with the lowest level in the hierarchy may be physically located within the facility. For example, (e.g., only) the controller associated with the lowest level in the hierarchy may be physically located within the facility. For example, (e.g., only) the controller with (i) circuitry complexity, (ii) logic complexity, (iii) memory capacity, and / or (iv) data storage capacity may be physically located within the facility. For example, (e.g., only) the controller with the lowest subordinate level may be physically located within the facility. For example, controllers that are directly coupled to (e.g., only) one or more devices that they control are physically located in the facility. In some embodiments, when a first controller is directly coupled to a device, there is no intervening second controller between the first controller and the device. In some embodiments, when a first controller is directly coupled to a device, there is no other circuitry intervening between the first controller and the device. The circuitry can be electronic and / or optical circuitry (e.g., including one or more optical fibers).

[0153] In some embodiments, logic associated with at least one level of the hierarchy may be located outside the facility. The logic may be embedded in at least a non-transitory medium that can be read by a circuit system (e.g., a processor such as a computer). The logic may be in the form of code (e.g., ASCII, Java, C++, or Python). For example, logic associated with multiple hierarchical control levels may be embedded in a non-transitory medium located outside the facility. For example, logic associated with one or more higher-level control levels may be embedded in a non-transitory medium located (e.g., physically located) outside the facility. For example, one or more logic associated with (e.g., only) the lowest control level may be embedded in a non-transitory medium located in the facility. For example, one or more logic associated with (e.g., only) the lowest control level may be embedded in a non-transitory medium located physically in the facility. For example, all logic associated with the control hierarchy may be embedded in a non-transitory medium located physically outside the facility. Logic associated with (e.g., only) the control hierarchy may be embedded in a non-transitory medium located physically outside the facility and transmitted (e.g., via one or more network systems) to the facility. The transmission may be via signaling (e.g., optical, acoustic, and / or electrical signaling). The transmission may be to circuitry (e.g., circuitry of a local controller). The logic may be prepared by circuitry of a controller hierarchy (e.g., any circuitry thereof).

[0154] In some embodiments, a plurality of devices may be operably (e.g., communicatively) coupled to a control system. The control system may include a controller hierarchy. The device may include a transmitter, a sensor, or a window (e.g., an IGU). The device may be any device disclosed herein. At least two of the plurality of devices may be of the same type. For example, two or more IGUs may be coupled to a control system. At least two of the plurality of devices may be of different types. For example, a sensor and a transmitter may be coupled to a control system. Sometimes, the plurality of devices may include at least 20, 50, 100, 500, 1000, 2500, 5000, 7500, 10000, 50000, 100000, or 500000 devices. The plurality of devices can be any number between the above numbers (e.g., from 20 devices to 500,000 devices, from 20 devices to 50 devices, from 50 devices to 500 devices, from 500 devices to 2,500 devices, from 1,000 devices to 5,000 devices, from 5,000 devices to 10,000 devices, from 10,000 devices to 100,000 devices, or from 100,000 devices to 500,000 devices). For example, the number of windows in a floor can be at least 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 40, or 50. The number of windows in a floor can be any number between the above numbers (e.g., from 5 to 50, from 5 to 25, or from 25 to 50). Sometimes, the devices can be located in a multi-story building. At least a portion of the floors of the multi-story building can have devices controlled by a control system (e.g., at least a portion of the floors of the multi-story building can be controlled by a control system). For example, a multi-story building may have at least 2, 8, 10, 25, 50, 80, 100, 120, 140, or 160 floors controlled by the control system. The number of floors (e.g., the devices therein) controlled by the control system may be any number between the above numbers (e.g., from 2 to 50, from 25 to 100, or from 80 to 160). The number of floors may be at least about 150 m 2 , 250m 2 500m 2 , 1000m 2 , 1500m 2 or 2000 square meters (m 2 The floor area may have an area between any of the aforementioned floor area values ​​(e.g., from about 150m 2 To approximately 2000m 2 、From about 150m 2 To approximately 500m 2 、From about 250m 2 To approximately 1000m 2 , from about 1000m 2 To approximately 2000m 2 ).

[0155] In some embodiments, the controller includes circuitry. The controller may be an automatic controller. The controller may be programmable. The controller may include programmable circuitry. The controller may include a programmable logic device (PLD). The programmable logic device may include a complex programmable logic device, a field programmable gate array, a general purpose array logic, a programmable array logic, or a programmable logic array. The controller may include proportional, integral, and differential controllers. The controller may include a microcontroller. The controller may include switches (e.g., electrical and / or optical switches), capacitors, resistors, or actuators. The controller may include a signal amplifier.

[0156] In some embodiments, the controller hierarchy can be configured to control one or more devices. The devices in the one or more devices may include windows, sensors, actuators, transmitters, antennas and / or receivers. The transmitter may include a buzzer, a light, a heater, a cooler and / or a heating, cooling, ventilation and air conditioning system (HVAC). The sensor may be configured to process, measure, analyze, detect and / or react to one or more of the following: data, temperature, humidity, sound, force, pressure, electromagnetic waves, position, distance, motion, flow, acceleration, speed, vibration, dust, light, glare, color, gas and / or other aspects (e.g., characteristics) of the environment (e.g., of the housing). The housing may be that of a facility. The gas may include volatile organic compounds (VOCs). The gas may include carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, water vapor (e.g., moisture), oxygen, radon and / or hydrogen sulfide. The window may be a tintable window (e.g., an electrically tintable window such as an electrochromic window).

[0157] In some embodiments, the controller may include a processing unit (e.g., a CPU or GPU). The controller may receive input (e.g., from at least one sensor). The controller may include circuitry, wires, optical cables, sockets, and / or power outlets. The controller may transmit output. The controller may include multiple (e.g., sub-) controllers. The controller may be part of a control system (e.g., a controller hierarchy). The control system may include a master controller, floor controllers (e.g., including a network controller), and local controllers. The local controller may be a window controller (e.g., controlling a light-switchable window), a housing controller, or a component controller. For example, the controller may be part of a hierarchical control system (e.g., including a master controller that directs one or more controllers, such as a floor controller, a local controller (e.g., a window controller), a housing controller, and / or a component controller). The controller may control one or more devices (e.g., be directly coupled to these devices). The controller may be located near the one or more devices it controls. For example, the controller may control a light-switchable device (e.g., an IGU), an antenna, a sensor, and / or an output device (e.g., a light source, a sound source, an odor source, a gas source, an HVAC power outlet, or a heater). In one embodiment, the floor controller may direct one or more window controllers, one or more housing controllers, one or more component controllers, or any combination thereof. A floor (e.g., including a network) controller can control multiple local (e.g., including window) controllers. Multiple local controllers can be set in a part of a facility (e.g., in a part of a building). A part of a facility can be a floor of the facility. For example, a floor controller can be assigned to a floor. In some embodiments, a floor can include multiple floor controllers, for example, depending on the size of the floor and / or the number of local controllers coupled to the floor controller. For example, a floor controller can be assigned to a part of a floor. For example, a floor controller can be assigned to a part of a local controller set in a facility. For example, a floor controller can be assigned to a part of a floor of the facility. A master controller can be coupled to one or more floor controllers. A floor controller can be set in a facility. The master controller can be set inside the facility or outside the facility. In some embodiments, the controller is part of a building management system or is operably coupled to the building management system.

[0158] In some embodiments, the controller receives one or more inputs and / or generates one or more outputs. The controller can be a single-input single-output controller (SISO) or a multiple-input multiple-output controller (MIMO). The controller can interpret the received input signals. The controller can acquire data from one or more components (e.g., sensors). Acquisition can include receiving or extracting. The data can include measuring, estimating, determining, generating, or any combination thereof. The controller can include feedback control. The controller can include feedforward control. Control can include on-off control, proportional control, proportional integral (PI) control, or proportional integral derivative (PID) control. Control can include open-loop control or closed-loop control. The controller can include closed-loop control. The controller can include open-loop control. The controller can include a user interface. The user interface can include (or be operably coupled to) a keyboard, keypad, mouse, touch screen, microphone, voice recognition package, camera, imaging system, or any combination thereof. The output can include a display (e.g., screen), speaker, or printer. In some embodiments, the local controller controls one or more IGUs, one or more sensors, one or more output devices (e.g., one or more transmitters), or any combination thereof. The controller can be operatively coupled (e.g., directly / indirectly and / or wired and / or wirelessly) to an external source. The external source can include a network (e.g., an electrical grid and / or a communications network). The external source can include one or more sensors or output devices. The external source can include a cloud-based application and / or database. Communication can be wired and / or wireless. The external source can be located outside the facility. For example, the external source can include one or more sensors and / or antennas located, for example, on a wall or ceiling of the facility. Communication can be unidirectional or bidirectional.

[0159] The methods, systems, and / or devices described herein may include a control system. The control system may communicate with any of the devices described herein (e.g., sensors, transmitters, receivers, antennas, or windows). For example, as described herein, the devices (e.g., devices) may include at least two of the same type and / or at least two of different types. For example, the control system may communicate with a first device and / or a second device. The control system may control one or more devices. The control system may control one or more components of a building management system (e.g., lighting, security, and / or air conditioning systems). The controller may adjust at least one (e.g., environmental) characteristic of the housing. The control system may use, for example, any of the devices disclosed herein to adjust the housing environment. Control may include manual and / or automatic control. The control system may use any component of the building management system to adjust the housing environment. For example, the control system may adjust the energy supplied by the heating element and / or the cooling element. For example, the control system may adjust the speed of air flowing into and / or out of the housing through the vents. The control system may include a processor. The processor may be a processing unit. The controller may include a processing unit. The processing unit may be central. The processing unit may include a central processing unit (abbreviated herein as "CPU"). The processing unit may be a graphics processing unit (abbreviated herein as "GPU"). A controller or control mechanism (e.g., including a computer system) can be programmed to implement one or more methods of the present disclosure. A processor can be programmed to implement the methods of the present disclosure. A controller can control at least one component of the forming system and / or apparatus disclosed herein.

[0160] In some embodiments, the control system includes a computer system. The computer system can control (e.g., guide, monitor and / or adjust) various features of the method, apparatus and system of the present disclosure, such as controlling heating, cooling, lighting, ventilation or any combination thereof. The computer system can be a part of or communicate with any device disclosed herein. The computer can be coupled to one or more mechanisms disclosed herein and / or any part thereof. For example, the computer can be coupled to one or more sensors, valves, switches, lights, windows (e.g., IGUs), motors, pumps, optical components or any combination thereof.

[0161] A computer system may include a processing unit (also referred to herein as "processor," "computer," and "computer processor"). A computer system may include memory or memory locations (e.g., random access memory, read-only memory, flash memory), electronic storage units (e.g., hard disks), communication interfaces (e.g., network adapters) for communicating with one or more other systems, and peripheral devices such as cache, other memory, data storage, and / or electronic display adapters. In some embodiments, the memory, storage units, interfaces, and / or peripheral devices communicate with the processing unit, for example, via a communication bus (solid lines) such as a motherboard. The storage unit may be a data storage unit (or data repository) for storing data. The data storage unit may be a memory. The computer system may be operatively coupled to a computer network ("network"), for example, with the aid of a communication interface. The network may include the Internet, the Internet and / or an extranet, or an intranet and / or an extranet in communication with the Internet. In some cases, the network includes a telecommunications and / or data network. The network may include one or more computer servers that may implement distributed computing, such as cloud computing. In some cases, with the aid of the computer system, the network may implement a peer-to-peer network, which may enable devices coupled to the computer system to act as clients or servers.

[0162] The processing unit can execute a series of machine-readable instructions, which can be embodied in a program or software. The instructions can be stored in a memory location such as a memory. The instructions can be directed to the processing unit, which can then be programmed or otherwise configured to implement the method of the present disclosure. Examples of operations performed by the processing unit can include acquiring, decoding, executing, and writing back. The processing unit can interpret and / or execute instructions. The processor can include a microprocessor, a data processor, a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), a system on a chip (SOC), a coprocessor, a network processor, an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), an application-specific instruction set processor (ASIP), a controller, a programmable logic device (PLD), a chipset, a field programmable gate array (FPGA), or any combination thereof. The processing unit can be part of a circuit such as an integrated circuit. One or more other components of the computer system can be included in the circuit.

[0163] The storage unit can store files, such as drivers, libraries, and saved programs. The storage unit can store user data (e.g., user preferences and user programs). In some cases, the computer system can include one or more additional data storage units that are located external to the computer system, such as on a remote server that communicates with the computer system via an intranet or the Internet.

[0164] The computer system can communicate with one or more remote computer systems via a network. For example, the computer system can communicate with a remote computer system of a user (e.g., an operator). Examples of remote computer systems include personal computers (e.g., laptop PCs), tablet personal computers or tablet computers (e.g., iPad, Galaxy Tab), phones, smartphones (e.g. iPhone, Android-supported devices, ) or a personal digital assistant. Users (eg, clients) can access the computer system via a network.

[0165] The methods described herein can be implemented with the aid of machine (e.g., computer processor) executable code stored in an electronic storage location (e.g., memory or electronic storage unit) of a computer system. Machine executable or machine readable code can be provided in the form of software. During use, the processor executes the code. In some cases, the code can be retrieved from the storage unit and stored in the memory for ready access by the processor. In some cases, the electronic storage unit can be excluded and the machine executable instructions can be stored in the memory.

[0166] The code may be precompiled and configured for use with a machine having a processor adapted to execute the code, or may be compiled at run time. The code may be provided in a programming language that may be selected to enable the code to be executed in a precompiled or compiled manner.

[0167] In some embodiments, the processor includes logic (e.g., in the form of code). The code can be program instructions. The program instructions can cause at least one processor (e.g., a computer) to direct a feedforward and / or feedback control loop. In some embodiments, the program instructions cause at least one processor to direct a closed-loop and / or open-loop control scheme. The control can be based at least in part on one or more sensor readings (e.g., sensor data). A controller can direct multiple operations. At least two operations can be directed by different controllers. In some embodiments, different controllers can direct at least two of operations (a), (b), and (c). In some embodiments, different controllers can direct at least two of operations (a), (b), and (c). In some embodiments, a non-transitory computer-readable medium causes each different computer to direct at least two of operations (a), (b), and (c). In some embodiments, different non-transitory computer-readable media causes each different computer to direct at least two of operations (a), (b), and (c). The controller and / or computer-readable medium can direct any device or component thereof disclosed herein. The controller and / or computer-readable medium can direct any operation of the method disclosed herein.

[0168] The site monitoring system may include one or more interfaces for communicating with remote sites. These interfaces are typically ports or connections for securely communicating via the Internet. Of course, other forms of network interfaces may be used. Data may be compressed before being sent from the site to the site monitoring system. The site monitoring system may interface with each site via a wireless connection or a cable connection. Figure 8 In the exemplary embodiment shown, site monitoring and control system 800 is implemented in the "cloud." The site monitoring system can be centralized or decentralized and can be accessed from anywhere by authorized personnel using a client application. The various components of the system can be located together or separately at one or more sites, at a location remote from all sites, and / or in the cloud. Additional features, functions, modules, etc. of the site monitoring system can include a data and event reporter, a data and event log and / or database, a data analyzer / reporter, and a communicator.

[0169] While in many embodiments, all or most site data analysis can be performed at the site monitoring and control system 800, this is not always the case. In some implementations, some site-level analysis, data compression, and the like are performed at a remote site before the site data is sent to the site monitoring system. For example, a network or master network controller may have sufficient processing power and other resources to perform analysis, data compression, and the like, and thus processing can be decentralized to take advantage of this. This allocation of processing power may not be fixed; that is, depending on the function being performed, the site monitoring and control system 800 may or may not utilize a remote processor for performing the aforementioned tasks. Thus, the site monitoring and control system 800 can be configured with the flexibility to utilize or not utilize a remote processor at the site.

[0170] By monitoring sensors and controllers in various facilities, the site monitoring and control system 800 may provide any one or more of the following services:

[0171] a. Customer Service—The site monitoring and control system 800 can notice when data from switchable devices, sensors, and / or controllers indicates a problem. The problem may be immediate, such as a malfunction, or foreseeable, such as when a component's performance drifts from specific parameters (while still operating normally). In response, service personnel can visit a remote location to correct the problem and / or communicate the problematic facility to the remote location. In the latter case, service personnel can, for example, reprogram the switchable device's controller to compensate for the drift from specifications. In some cases, the problem is flagged and resolved before the potential problem becomes apparent at the site. For example, such reprogramming can permanently disable adequate performance from the window or provide adequate performance until field service personnel can visit the site and replace or repair the unit. Additionally, the monitoring system can be configured to automatically correct site problems. Unless otherwise noted, any of the problems, errors, etc. described herein can be automatically corrected using heuristics within the site monitoring system. In one example, the monitoring system detects drift from specifications in an electrochromic window and automatically reprograms the window's controller to compensate for the drift. The system also alerts service personnel of the incident. Service personnel can then decide the best course of action, such as further reprogramming, replacing the window, or replacing the controller. Occupants may have no indication of any issues with the window and / or controller, and their perception of window performance may not change during these procedures. This system allows for rapid problem resolution. For example, a dashboard interface provides the ability to research issues based on a high-level overview. From this high-level overview, the system easily accesses log file sections, diagrams, images, and reports based on site-specific context. In some embodiments, when one or more issues are identified at a site, the system flags the entire site. This eliminates the need for individuals interacting with the system to understand the specific details of the issue until they need such information. Thus, for example, a service personnel can quickly select a flagged site and research the actual issue, which could be a single window with a non-critical problem. This allows service personnel to (a) quickly determine where the problem is occurring, (b) quickly determine the nature of the problem at each site, and (c) effectively prioritize any issues. The system can also provide proactive data to other systems at the site, such as the HVAC system, enabling such systems to enhance user comfort and / or save energy.

[0172] b. Customize facilities based on observed usage trends. User preferences can be incorporated into the program over time. As an example, a site monitoring system can determine how end users (e.g., occupants) attempt to override the window control algorithm at a particular time of day and use this information to predict future user behavior. It can modify the window control algorithm to set the tint level based on learned user preferences.

[0173] c. Deploy the learned method to other facilities (e.g., how to best tint windows during an approaching afternoon thunderstorm). Using the collective experience and information from the installed base of switchable device networks offers numerous benefits. For example, it can help fine-tune control algorithms, customize window / network products for specific market segments, and / or test new concepts (e.g., control algorithms, sensor placement).

[0174] The following description presents examples of certain types of site information that can be monitored by a site monitoring system. Information can be provided from various sources, such as voltage and / or current versus time data for individual switchable devices, sensor output versus time, communications and network events and logs for a controller network, and so on. Time variables can be associated with external events such as the sun's position, weather, and so on. Information with periodic components can be analyzed in the frequency domain as well as the time domain.

[0175] For example, the following information can be derived from window controller current / voltage data:

[0176] a. A change in peak current [This is sometimes produced during the application of a ramp to the drive voltage to produce an optical transition.]

[0177] b. Changes in holding (leakage) current [This may be observed in the final state of the switchable device. The rate of increased leakage current may be correlated to the likelihood of a short circuit in the device. Sometimes, short circuits can cause undesirable defects, such as halos in the device. These may be field repairable using, for example, portable defect mitigation equipment such as described in U.S. Patent Application No. 13 / 859,623, filed April 9, 2013, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.]

[0178] c. Change in voltage compensation required [Voltage compensation is the change in voltage required to account for the voltage drop in the conductive path from the power supply to the switchable device.]

[0179] d. Change in total charge transferred [measured over a period of time and / or during a state of the switchable device (e.g., during actuation or during holding).]

[0180] e. Changes in power consumption [Power consumption can be calculated by (I*V) per window or controller.]

[0181] f. Comparison with other window controllers (WCs) on the same facade with the same load [This allows the monitoring system to determine that a specific controller has a problem, rather than the specific device controlled by the controller. For example, a window controller may be connected to five insulating glass units, each of which exhibits the same problem. Because it is unlikely that all five devices will suffer from the same problem, the monitoring system can infer that the controller is the problem.]

[0182] g. Abnormal distribution cases: for example, double coloring / double clearing [Double coloring / clearing refers to the situation where a normal drive cycle (voltage and / or current profile) is applied and the switchable device is found not to have switched (in which case a second drive cycle must be performed.]

[0183] h. Switching Characteristics Relative to External Weather [Under certain temperature or weather conditions, the monitoring system expects specific switching results or performance. Deviations from the expected response indicate problems with the controller, switchable device, and / or sensor.]

[0184] The changes and comparisons described herein can be generated from data collected at, for example, the network controller level. Historical data (daily, weekly, monthly, yearly) is stored in the site monitoring and control system, and this data can be used for comparison. Using such data, changes due to temperature can be identified and ignored where appropriate. Various changes, together or in combination, can provide characteristics of problems in windows, controllers, sensors, etc. Any one or more of the above parameters can identify an increase in impedance at any location from the power supply to (and including) the switchable device. This path can include a switchable device, a bus bar connected to the device, leads attached to the bus bar, a connector to the lead attachment or IGU, a group of wires (sometimes referred to as "pigtails") between the connector (IGU) and the power supply. As an example, a change in any one or more of parameters 1a to 1e can indicate corrosion caused by water in the window frame. A model using a combination of these parameters can identify the characteristics of such corrosion and accurately report this problem remotely.

[0185] As a further example, the following information can be derived from the window controller state and zone state changes:

[0186] a. Any window controller that is out of sync with its zone—for example, this may be due to a communication problem [Example: If there are multiple controllers in a zone at a site and one of those controllers is behaving as expected, the site monitoring system may infer that the abnormal controller is not receiving or following commands over the communication network. The site monitoring system may take steps to isolate the source of the problem and proceed to correct it.]

[0187] b. Maximum switching time for a zone and adjustments to make all glasses switch at the same rate [A site monitoring system can identify a specific switchable device that is not switching at the required or expected rate. Without replacing or modifying the device, the monitoring site can modify the switching algorithm so that the device switches at the expected rate. For example, if a device is observed switching too slowly, its drive or drive voltage ramp can be increased. This can be done remotely, and in some embodiments automatically.]

[0188] As yet another example, the following information can be derived from the system log:

[0189] a. Any change in the frequency of communication errors - an increase in noise or device degradation [Received communications from the controller may slow or stop. Alternatively, sent communications may not be acknowledged or executed.]

[0190] b. Connection degradation in the event that a pigtail (or other connection) begins to show signs of disconnection [In certain embodiments, a connector, for example, containing memory and / or logic, provides a signal indicating that it has become disconnected. The window controller may receive such a signal, which may be recorded at a remote site monitoring system. Another description of pigtails and other electrical connection features is presented in U.S. Patent Application No. 14 / 363,769, filed June 6, 2014, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.]

[0191] As yet another example, the following information can be derived from the system photosensor data:

[0192] a. Any degradation over time [This can manifest as a reduction in signal amplitude. This can be caused by various factors, including damage to the sensor, dirt on the sensor, obstacles in front of the sensor, etc.]

[0193] b. Correlation with external weather [Typically, site monitoring systems assume that photoelectric sensor outputs should be correlated with the weather.]

[0194] c. Comparison with zone state changes to ensure the site's window control technology is functioning correctly [Site monitoring systems typically expect that a zone will change state when its photosensor output meets certain state change criteria. For example, if the sensor indicates a transition to sunny conditions, then the switchable devices in the zone should be colored. In certain embodiments, there are one or more photosensors per zone.

[0195] d. Any change in the surrounding environment after commissioning [As an example, a tree growing in front of one or more sensors, a building being constructed in front of one or more sensors, or building scaffolding being erected in front of one or more sensors. Such a change in the surrounding environment may be evidenced by multiple sensors being similarly affected by the change (e.g., their photosensor outputs dropping simultaneously). Commissioning is used, among other purposes, to provide information regarding the deployment of sensors, controllers, and / or switchable optical devices in the site. Commissioning is further described in PCT Application No. PCT / US2013 / 036456, filed April 12, 2013, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.]

[0196] As another example, the following information can be derived from state change driven log file analysis:

[0197] a. Per-Zone Override—Further Tuning the Control Algorithm for a Zone [A site monitoring system can learn the requirements of a particular site and adapt its learning algorithm to address the requirements. Various types of adaptive learning are described in PCT Application No. PCT / US2013 / 036456, filed April 12, 2013, which was previously incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.]

[0198] b. Mobile Device vs. Wall Switch Overrides—Consumer Preferences [When an override is observed, the monitoring system can note which type of device initiated the override, e.g., a wall switch or a mobile device. More frequent use of the wall switch may indicate a training issue or a problem with the window application on the mobile device.]

[0199] c. Time / Frequency of Various States - Usefulness of Each State [When multiple hue states are available and some are underused, it may indicate to the remote monitoring system that there is a problem with a particular state. The system may change the transmittance or other characteristics of the state.]

[0200] d. Variation by market segment [The frequency of use (popularity) of certain states or other attributes of a site's switching characteristics may be correlated with market segments. When the site monitoring system learns this, it can develop and provide market-specific algorithms. Examples of market segments include airports, hospitals, office buildings, schools, government buildings, etc.]

[0201] e. Total number of transitions—expected number of cycles within warranty period and life by market segment. [This provides in-situ life cycle information.]

[0202] As a further example, the following information can be derived from the energy calculation:

[0203] a. Energy savings by zone and season, total system energy savings by season [The site monitoring system can compare energy savings from multiple sites to identify algorithms, device types, structures, etc. that provide improvements. Compare sites and improve the ones with lower performance.]

[0204] b. Providing advanced energy load information to the AC system on a zone-by-zone basis [Buildings have large thermal masses, so air conditioning and heating are not immediately effective. Using a solar calculator or other predictive tools (described elsewhere herein), the site monitoring system can provide advance notice to the HVAC system so it can begin transitioning earlier. Providing this information on a zone-by-zone basis may be necessary. Additionally, the site monitoring system can tint one or more windows or zones to assist the HVAC system in doing its job. For example, if a heat load is expected on a particular facade, the site monitoring system can provide advance notice to the HVAC system and also tint the windows on the side of the building to reduce the cooling demand that would otherwise be a cooling requirement for the HVAC. Depending on the speed of the window tinting, the site monitoring system can calculate and time the tinting and HVAC activation sequence appropriately. For example, if the windows tint slowly, HVAC activation may be earlier, while if they tint quickly, the HVAC signal to act may be delayed or more slowly accelerated to reduce the load on the system.]

[0205] In certain embodiments, a window, controller, and / or sensor has its performance or response checked at an initial point in time and repeatedly rechecked thereafter. In some cases, the most recent performance / response measurement is compared with a previous performance / response measurement to detect trends, deviations, stability, etc. Adjustments may be made as needed, or services may be provided to address trends or deviations detected during the comparison. A collection of relevant parameters for a window, sensor, or controller may serve as a "fingerprint" for the device. Such parameters include voltage response, current response, communication fidelity, etc., as described elsewhere herein. In some embodiments, a window, sensor, and / or controller is inspected and optionally fingerprinted at the factory. For example, a switchable window may undergo an aging process during which relevant parameters may be acquired. A window exhibiting a problem may have its current performance compared with a previous fingerprint to optionally determine whether the problem occurred after shipment / installation or during operation. A fingerprint may also optionally be automatically generated when the device is commissioned (e.g., installed at a site and initially detected and classified). The fingerprint may be stored in a memory associated with the window, such as in a pigtail. In certain embodiments, the site monitoring system can remotely and automatically reprogram the memory in the pigtail (or other memory). Debugging is described in PCT patent application No. PCT / US2013 / 036456, filed April 12, 2013, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0206] In certain embodiments, during commissioning at a new site, a site monitoring system compares the designed site layout with the actual commissioned layout to flag any discrepancies during commissioning. This can be used to correct devices, controllers, etc. at the site or to correct design documents. In some cases, the site monitoring system simply verifies that all window controllers, network controllers, zones, etc. match between the design documents and the actual site implementation. In other cases, a detailed analysis is performed, which can verify cable lengths, etc. The comparison can also identify installation problems, such as incorrect photoelectric sensor orientation, defective photoelectric sensors, etc., and optionally automatically correct such problems. As indicated, during commissioning, the site monitoring system can obtain and store initial fingerprints of many or all individual components in the site, including voltage / current measurements at the switchable optical devices for different device transitions. Such fingerprints can be used to periodically check the site and detect degradation in upstream hardware (i.e., wiring, power supply, uninterruptible power supply (UPS)) as well as window controllers and switchable optical devices. US Patent Application No. 62 / 019,325, filed June 30, 2014, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety, describes the use of a UPS in a switchable optical window network.

[0207] While much of the discussion herein focuses on systems for detecting and diagnosing problems with a network of switchable optical devices, another aspect of the present disclosure relates to site monitoring systems that utilize the following capabilities: automatically collect data, automatically detect problems and potential problems, automatically notify personnel or systems of problems or potential problems, automatically correct such problems or potential problems, and / or automatically interface with building or corporate systems to analyze data, implement corrections, generate service tickets, etc.

[0208] Examples of such automatic features of a site monitoring system may include:

[0209] 1. If there is a slow degradation in the current drawn by the window (or other non-fatal characteristic of the switching current received by the window), the site monitoring system can automatically correct this problem by, for example, directing the controller associated with the window to increase the switching voltage to the window. The system can calculate the voltage increase using empirical and / or analytical techniques that correlate changes in the current drawn or optical switching properties with changes in the applied voltage. The voltage change can be limited to, for example, a range that defines a safe level of voltage or current for devices in the window network. The voltage change can be implemented by the site monitoring system reprogramming one or more memories storing tint transition instructions for the window in question. For example, a memory associated with the window, such as in a pigtail, is factory-programmed to contain window parameters that allow the window controller to determine the appropriate drive voltage for the electrochromic coating associated with the window. If degradation or a similar problem is present, one or more of these parameters may need to be changed, and the site monitoring system can therefore reprogram the memory. This can be done, for example, where the window controller automatically generates the drive voltage parameters based on stored values ​​in a memory (e.g., a memory associated with the pigtail). That is, rather than the site monitoring system sending new driver parameters to the window controller, the system may simply reprogram the window memory so that the window controller can determine the new driver parameters on its own. Of course, the site monitoring system may also provide the tint transition parameters to the window controller, which may then apply the tint transition parameters according to its own internal protocol, which may involve storing the tint transition parameters in associated memory or providing them to a higher-level network controller.

[0210] 2. If there is slow degradation in the photosensors that results in less accurate readings (or other characteristics of non-fatal problems with the sensors), the site monitoring system can automatically correct the sensor readings before using them for other purposes (e.g., as input to an optical device switching algorithm). In certain embodiments, the site monitoring system applies an offset, within certain limits, to compensate for the photosensor readings. This allows, for example, uninterrupted occupant comfort and automatic adjustment of window tinting for improved aesthetics. Again, for example, an occupant may not be aware that any of these changes to the windows and / or related components or software have occurred.

[0211] 3. If the system detects that the room is occupied or knows that the room is typically occupied, and the tinting algorithm applies the tint after the glare begins, the site monitoring system can automatically adjust the tint algorithm to start earlier when the room is occupied or predicted to be occupied. In some embodiments, the glare is detected by a photosensor located in or outside the room where the glare occurs. The algorithm can use an occupancy sensor located within the room.

[0212] 4. When the system detects differences in tinting times for different windows in the same facade, this allows all windows to be tinted simultaneously and to the same tint level as needed (if the occupants want to tint the entire facade simultaneously) by automatically adjusting the ramped voltage parameters.

[0213] 5. The site monitoring system can detect that a window controller is out of sync with the other window controllers for a group of windows in a zone or facade. The system can then automatically restore the windows to sync by adjusting the applied switching voltage or by taking other corrective measures within its control.

[0214] Remote monitoring systems can collect and use local climate information, site lighting information, site heat load information, and / or weather feed data for various purposes. The following are a few examples.

[0215] Weather Service Ratings: Existing services rely on weather feeds / data to sell and / or enable their services. For example, "smart sprinklers" and even landscaping companies using conventional sprinkler systems use weather data to program their watering patterns. This weather data is often local, for example, based on zip code, and there are multiple sources of weather data. In certain embodiments, a remote monitoring system uses the actual data it collects to rate the weather services predicted for any given area. The system can determine which is the most accurate and provide a rating for these services that rely on weather feeds. Any given weather service may be more accurate depending on the geographic region. For example, weather service A may be the best in San Francisco but not as good in the Santa Clara Valley (where service B is better). The system can provide a rating service that identifies which weather feed is more reliable in a given area by collecting actual sensor data, performing statistical analysis, and providing valuable intelligence to customers. This information is useful for entities other than sites; examples include sprinkler companies, companies that use or control solar panels, outdoor venues, and any entity that relies on the weather.

[0216] Weather Services: Site monitoring systems can collect sensor data from large geographic areas in real time. In certain embodiments, this data is provided to weather services, enabling them to provide more accurate weather data. In other words, weather services rely heavily on satellite imagery and larger sky pattern data feeds. Information from multiple sites with widely deployed switchable optical devices and associated sensors can provide real-time ground-level information about the sun, clouds, heat, and more. Combining these two data sets can result in more accurate weather forecasts. This approach can be considered as creating a sensor network across a country or other geographic area where multiple sites exist.

[0217] Consumer Behavior: Indirect data from end-user patterns can be collected, such as by knowing when and how end-users tint or bleach optical tint windows in any geographic location or region. In certain embodiments, the data collected by the site monitoring system is analyzed to find patterns that can be valuable to other consumer product suppliers. For example, "heavy tint" can indicate: a repulsion from the sun / heat, the fact that there are high sunlight levels, a need for more water in the area, an area ripe for selling more sunglasses, etc. Similarly, "heavy bleach" can indicate relative trends that would be useful to suppliers selling items such as sun lamps, tea, books, heating pads, boilers, tanning booths, etc.

[0218] The window controllers and / or site monitoring systems of the present disclosure may be used in conjunction with a building management system (BMS), which is a computer-based control system installed in a building that monitors and controls the building's mechanical and electrical equipment, such as ventilation, lighting, power systems, elevators, fire protection systems, and security systems as described above. In some embodiments, a BMS may not be present or a BMS may be present but may not communicate with a master network controller or may communicate with the master network controller at a high level, such as when the site monitoring system communicates directly with the master window controller. In these embodiments, the master network controller may provide, for example, enhanced: 1) environmental control, 2) energy savings, 3) flexibility of control options, 4) improved reliability and service life due to other systems having less reliance on it and therefore less maintenance on it, 5) information availability and diagnostics, 6) efficient use of staff, and various combinations of these because the tinted windows are automatically controlled. In these embodiments, maintenance on the BMS will not interrupt control of the tinted windows.

[0219] In some embodiments, the BMS can communicate with the site monitoring system to receive control signals from one or more systems in the site network and transmit the monitoring data. In other embodiments, the site monitoring system can communicate directly with the master window controller and / or other systems in the site network to manage the system.

[0220] Figure 9A and Figure 9B Depicts an example of a building network block diagram. As mentioned above, such a network may include any number of different communication protocols that may operate over a local data bus, including BACnet and CANopen. Figure 9AAs shown in the first example, a site network 900A includes a main network controller 903A, a lighting control panel 910, a BMS 905, a security control system 920, and a user console 925. These various controllers and systems at the site may be used to receive input from and / or control the site's HVAC system 930, lights 935, security sensors 940, door locks 945, cameras 950, and tintable windows 955. Figure 9B As shown in the second example, site network 900B is communicatively coupled to master network controller 903B and, similar to site network 900A, includes lighting control panel 910, BMS 905, security control system 920, and user console 925, which can be used to receive input from and / or control the site's HVAC system 930, lights 935, security sensors 940, door locks 945, cameras 950, and tintable windows 955. Figure 9B In the example shown, the master network controller 903B may be incorporated into a site monitoring and control system, such as that described above in conjunction with Figure 8 The site monitoring and control system 800 described herein. The main network controller 903A and the main control network 903B can be combined with Figure 6 The primary network controller 603 is described to operate in a similar manner.

[0221] In some cases, the BMS 905 may be integrated with a site monitoring and control system (such as the one described above). Figure 8 In one embodiment, the network 900B can communicate with a site monitoring and control system 800 as described above and receive instructions for controlling the tintable windows from the site monitoring and control system. In other embodiments, the network 900B can communicate with a cloud-based master network controller 903B via the Internet to control the tintable windows in the building.

[0222] The lighting control panel 910 may include circuits for controlling interior lighting, exterior lighting, emergency warning lights, emergency exit signs, and emergency floor exit lighting. The lighting control panel 910 may also include occupancy sensors for the site's rooms. The BMS 905 may include a computer server that receives data from and issues commands to other systems and controllers on the site network. For example, the BMS 905 may receive data from and issue commands to each of the lighting control panel 910 and the security control system 920. The security control system 920 may include magnetic card access, turnstiles, solenoid-activated door locks, surveillance cameras, burglar alarms, metal detectors, and the like. The user console 925 may be a computer terminal used by site managers to orchestrate control, monitoring, optimization, and troubleshooting operations for the site's various systems. Software from Tridium Corporation can generate visual representations of data from the various systems on the user console 925. In some embodiments, the BMS 905 may receive data from and issue commands to the corresponding master control network 903A or 903B.

[0223] In some cases, site networks 900A or 900B may operate according to a daily, monthly, quarterly, or annual schedule. For example, lighting control systems, window control systems, HVAC, and security systems may operate based on a 24-hour schedule that takes into account when people are at the site during the workday. At night, the site may enter an energy-saving mode, and during the day, the system may operate in a manner that minimizes the site's energy consumption while providing occupant comfort. As another example, the system may shut down or enter an energy-saving mode during vacations.

[0224] Scheduling information can be combined with geographic information. Geographic information can include the latitude and longitude of a site (e.g., a building). In the case of a building, the geographic information can also include information about the direction each side of the building faces. Using such information, different rooms on different sides of a building can be controlled in different ways. For example, for an east-facing room in a building in winter, the window controller can indicate that the windows have no tint in the morning so that the room warms up due to sunlight shining into the room, and the lighting control panel can indicate that the lights are dimmed due to sunlight shining into the room. The west-facing windows can be controlled by the occupants of the room in the morning because the tint of the west-facing windows may have no effect on energy savings. However, the operating modes of the east-facing windows and the west-facing windows can be switched in the evening (e.g., when the sun sets, the west-facing windows are untinted to allow sunlight to enter for heating and lighting).

[0225] Wireless communication between, for example, a master window controller and / or an intermediate window controller and a terminal window controller offers the advantage of avoiding the installation of hard communication lines. The same is true for wireless communication between a window controller and a BMS. In one aspect, wireless communication in these roles can be used to transmit data to and from the electrochromic windows for operating the windows and providing data to, for example, a BMS to optimize the environment and energy savings in the building. Window position data and feedback from sensors are used in conjunction for such optimization. For example, granular level (window by window) microclimate information is fed to the BMS in order to optimize the various environments of the building.

[0226] Figure 10 According to another embodiment, a method for controlling a building (e.g. Figure 5 1 is a block diagram of components of a system 1000 for implementing functionality (e.g., transitioning to different tint levels) of one or more tintable windows of a building 501 (shown in FIG. 1 ). System 1000 may or may not be communicatively coupled with a BMS (not shown) or may operate independently of a BMS or with a building that does not include a BMS.

[0227] Similarly, for the combination Figure 6 The system 600 depicted in FIG. 1000 includes a window control system 1002 having a network of window controllers that can send control signals to tintable windows to control their functionality. The system 1000 also includes a cloud-based master controller 1003 in electronic communication with the network controller 606. Predictive control logic, other control logic and instructions for controlling the functionality of the tintable windows, sensor data, and / or schedule information related to clear sky models can be transmitted from the network 606 to the network controller 603 via the internet. In the illustrated example, the network controller is communicatively coupled to the local window controllers via a local data bus (e.g., a CAN bus). In another example, the master controller 1003 can communicate with a battery management system (BMS) (not shown) to allow the BMS to send instructions for controlling the tintable EC devices / windows to the tintable windows via the local data bus.

[0228] Figure 11FIG1 is a simplified block diagram of a building site interfaced with a cloud-based monitoring and control system, according to some embodiments. In the illustrated example, building site 1100 includes electrochromic windows 1155 communicatively coupled to window controller 1110. In the illustrated example, window controller 1110 is communicatively coupled to CAN manager 1120 via a CAN bus. In some embodiments, CAN manager 1120 may be implemented on a single-board host device. CAN manager 1120 may include a CAN interface (I / F) 1122 communicatively coupled to the CAN bus and a network API 1124 communicatively coupled to a network client 1103. Network API 1124 may be configured to receive and process HTTP commands received from network client 1103. In some examples, network client 1103 may be or include host network controller 1003. Alternatively or additionally, network client 1103 may include a human operator interface, such as one or more consoles, which may be configured to be accessible using a workstation, laptop, or mobile device such as a smartphone, and present information about the functionality of the devices in the site.

[0229] Figure 12 11 illustrates features of a CAN manager according to some embodiments. In the illustrated example, in addition to a network API 1124 and a CAN I / F 1122, the CAN manager 1120 includes functional modules such as a window parameter control block 1121, a CAN bus monitoring block 1123, and a debug block 1125. The window parameter control block 1121 can be configured to execute instructions received via the network API 1124 to change the tint state of the electrochromic window. For example, such instructions can be executed by setting parameter values ​​on a window controller (not shown) communicatively coupled to the CAN I / F 1122 via the CAN bus. The CAN bus monitoring block 1123 can be configured to monitor the health and status of devices communicating with the CAN bus, particularly the electrochromic window and any sensors and controllers associated with its operation, via the CAN I / F 1122. Such monitoring information can be stored locally and / or uploaded (periodically or on demand) to the network client 1103 (not shown) via the network API 1124. In the example shown, the CAN manager 1120 optionally includes a debugging block 1125 by means of which the network client can manage the debugging of the electrochromic window as described above.

[0230] Figure 1313 is a flow chart illustrating an example method for monitoring and / or controlling remote building sites using a cloud-based system. As described above, each site may include an electrochromic window network and window controller, as well as at least one network controller. At block 1310, method 1300 may begin by receiving data regarding the functionality of the corresponding network from at least one network controller at the cloud-based system. In response to the received data, at block 1320, the method may conclude by sending data and / or control messages from the cloud-based system to the at least one network controller.

[0231] It should be understood that the technology described above can be implemented in the form of control logic using computer software in a modular or integrated manner. Based on the disclosure and teachings provided herein, those of ordinary skill in the art will know and understand other ways and / or methods of implementing the disclosed technology using hardware and a combination of hardware and software.

[0232] Any of the software components or functions described in this application can be implemented as software code executed by a processor using any suitable computer language, such as Java, C++, or Python, using, for example, conventional or object-oriented technology. The software code can be stored as a series of instructions or commands on a computer-readable medium, such as random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), magnetic media such as a hard drive or floppy disk, magnetic disk, or optical media such as a CD-ROM. Any such computer-readable medium can reside on or within a single computing device and can be present on or within different computing devices within a system or network.

[0233] Although the foregoing disclosed embodiments have been described in some detail to facilitate understanding, the described embodiments should be considered illustrative rather than restrictive. It will be apparent to one skilled in the art that certain changes and modifications may be practiced within the scope of the appended claims.

[0234] While the aforementioned disclosed embodiments for controlling light received through a window or building interior have been described in the context of light-switchable windows, such as electrochromic windows, it will be appreciated that the methods described herein can be implemented on an appropriate controller to adjust the position of window shades, window coverings, curtains, or any other device that can be adjusted to limit or block light from reaching a building interior space. In some cases, the methods described herein can be used to control the tint and position of one or more light-switchable windows and window coverings. All such combinations are intended to fall within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0235] Without departing from the scope of the present disclosure, one or more features from any embodiment may be combined with one or more features of any other embodiment. Further, any embodiment may be modified, added to, or omitted without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Components of any embodiment may be integrated or separated as specifically needed without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0236] Although preferred embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described herein, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that these embodiments are provided as examples only. The present invention is not intended to be limited to the specific embodiments provided in the specification. Although the present invention has been described with reference to the foregoing description, the description and illustration of the embodiments herein are not intended to be interpreted as restrictive. Without departing from the present invention, many variations, changes, and substitutions will now occur to those skilled in the art. In addition, it should be understood that all aspects of the present invention are not limited to the specific description, configuration, or relative proportions set forth herein according to various conditions and variations. It should be understood that various substitutions to the embodiments of the present invention described herein may be adopted in practicing the present invention. It is therefore contemplated that the present invention also encompasses any such substitutions, modifications, variations, or equivalents. The following claims are intended to define the scope of the present invention, and are therefore intended to encompass methods and structures within the scope of these claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A system comprising: A building comprising an electrochromic window network and window controllers and at least one network controller; and Remote master network controller; wherein the network controller is configured to: Communicates with the window controller via a local data bus; and Communicates with the remote host controller via Internet Protocol.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein the remote host controller is configured to reside in a cloud-based system that includes one or both of computing and data storage resources.

3. The system of claim 1, wherein the local data bus complies with the Controller Area Network (CAN) standard.

4. The system of claim 3, wherein the network controller comprises a CAN manager, the CAN manager comprising an application programming interface configured to receive HTTP input from the remote master controller via the Internet and a CAN interface to communicate with the window controller.

5. The system of claim 1 , wherein the building includes a building management system (BMS), and the remote master network controller is communicatively coupled to the electrochromic window network through one or both of the BMS and the network controller.

6. The system of claim 1 , wherein the building includes a building management system (BMS), and the remote master network controller is communicatively coupled to the building only through the BMS.

7. The system of claim 1, wherein the remote master network controller is communicatively coupled to the electrochromic window network only through the network controller, regardless of whether the building includes a building management system.

8. The system of claim 1, wherein the remote master network controller is communicatively coupled to the window controller via an application programming interface.

9. The system of claim 1 , wherein the network controller is configured to: sending data regarding the functionality of the network to a remote host controller; and Receives data and / or control messages from a remote host controller.

10. A cloud-based system comprising one or both of computing and data storage resources, wherein: The cloud-based system is configured to: communicatively coupled to a plurality of remote sites, each site comprising a respective network of switchable optical devices and at least one associated network controller; receiving data from the at least one associated network controller regarding functionality of the respective network; and In response to the received data, data and / or control messages are sent to the at least one associated network controller.

11. The cloud-based system of claim 10, wherein: At least one of the remote sites is a building that includes a building management system (BMS), and the cloud-based system is communicatively coupled to a corresponding network of switchable optical devices through one or both of the BMS and an associated network controller.

12. The cloud-based system of claim 10, wherein: At least one remote site is a building that includes a building management system (BMS), and the cloud-based system is communicatively coupled to the at least one remote site solely through the BMS.

13. The cloud-based system of claim 10, wherein the cloud-based system is communicatively coupled to at least one remote site solely through an associated network controller, whether or not the remote site includes a building management system.

14. The cloud-based system of claim 10, wherein the system is configured as a master network controller for at least one of the plurality of remote sites.

15. The cloud-based system of claim 10, wherein the system is communicatively coupled to at least one remote site via an application programming interface.

16. The cloud-based system of claim 10, wherein the system is configured to provide a human operator interface comprising one or more consoles configured to present information about the functionality of the devices in the remote site to a human operator.

17. A building comprising: electrochromic window networks and window controllers; and At least one network controller; wherein: The network controller is configured to: Communicates with the window controller via a local data bus; and Communicates with the remote host controller via Internet Protocol.

18. The building of claim 17, wherein: The remote host controller is configured to reside in a cloud-based system that includes one or both of computing and data storage resources; and The local data bus complies with the Controller Area Network (CAN) standard.

19. The building according to claim 18, wherein The network controller includes a CAN manager including an application programming interface configured to receive HTTP input from the remote master controller via the Internet and a CAN interface to communicate with the window controller.

20. The building of claim 18, wherein the at least one network controller is configured to sending data regarding the functionality of the network to a remote host controller; and Receives data and / or control messages from a remote host controller.

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