Method for controlling tintable windows implementing an intermediate tint state

Abstract

Methods of controlling a tint of a tintable window in a building are provided. The methods include defining one or more threshold values of an environmental condition for a defined period of time, defining two or more discrete tint state values for the tintable window, and sending a tint command to transition the tintable window from a first tint state to a second tint state if the input reading crosses one or both of the one or more threshold values for the defined period of time, and not further transitioning during a lockout period.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of Chinese patent application No. 201780039437.8, filed by Weijing Company, entitled "Control method for achieving mid-tone state of colorable window".

[0002] Cross-references to related applications This application claims the benefit and priority of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 343650, filed May 31, 2016, entitled “Control Methods for Tintable Windows Implanting Intermediate Tint States”, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0003] The embodiments disclosed herein generally relate to window controllers and control logic for performing methods of controlling the hue and other functions of a colorable window (e.g., an electrochromic window). Background Technology

[0004] Electrochromism is a phenomenon in which a material exhibits reversible, electrochemically mediated changes in its optical properties when placed in different electronic states, typically through voltage variations. These optical properties are usually 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 in which a color transition from transparent to blue occurs through electrochemical reduction.

[0005] Electrochromic materials can be incorporated into windows for various purposes, such as residential, commercial, and others. The color, transmittance, absorptivity, and / or reflectivity of such windows can be altered by changing the electrochromic material; that is, electrochromic windows are windows that can electronically darken or brighten. A small voltage applied to the electrochromic device on the window will darken it; reversing the voltage will brighten it. This capability allows for control of the amount of light passing through the window and provides opportunities for electrochromic windows to be used as energy-saving devices.

[0006] Despite the discovery of electrochromism in the 1960s, electrochromic devices, particularly electrochromic windows, have unfortunately encountered various problems, and despite recent advancements in electrochromic technology, devices, and related methods for manufacturing and / or using electrochromic devices, their full commercial potential has not yet been realized. Summary of the Invention

[0007] Systems, methods, and apparatus are provided for controlling the transition of electrochromic windows and other tintable windows to different hue levels. Typically, embodiments include control logic for performing methods of controlling the hue level of one or more electrochromic windows or other tintable windows. Typically, the control logic can be used in buildings or other structures having one or more electrochromic windows located between the interior and exterior of the building. The windows can have different constructions. For example, some might be vertical windows in offices or lobbies, while others might be skylights in corridors. More specifically, the disclosed embodiments include control logic that provides a method for determining and changing the hue level of one or more tintable windows to directly consider occupant comfort.

[0008] Occupant comfort involves making tinting decisions that reduce direct glare and / or total radiant energy directed towards the occupant or their activity area, while allowing sufficient natural light in that area. Occupant comfort also involves making tinting decisions that are aesthetically pleasing to the occupant, for example, by utilizing mid-tone states and wait times to dampen the responsiveness of control methods to temporal variations in radiation fluctuations from, for example, intermittent clouds. Control logic may also incorporate energy-saving considerations.

[0009] The described control logic utilizes the ability to quickly switch to an intermediate hue state and initiate a new transition before completing a previous one, to more smoothly adapt to assessments of known conditions. Generally, the described control logic is used to execute methods for controlling hue transitions in electrochromic windows or other tintable windows, taking into account occupant comfort and / or energy efficiency considerations. These methods typically determine a scheme that makes a hue decision based on statistically probable conditions, and then send a hue command to control the transition in the tintable window.

[0010] In some embodiments, the control method makes a hue determination using photoelectric sensor readings and optional additional inputs to see if a hue transition is suggested. For example, a high solar irradiance reading above an upper threshold could indicate a clear sky and sunny weather. Even if the method suggests transitions to more than two hue zones, a hue command is sent to transition the window to only a single hue zone. If the final hue zone is indicated by control logic that depends on current external conditions (e.g., clear sky and sunny weather, intermittent clouds, etc.), the method locks out further transitions during the lockout period. During the lockout period, the control method monitors inputs regarding external conditions and statistically evaluates events that occurred during the waiting time (known historical data). Once out of the lockout period, the method determines the current state and suggested hue zone based on a statistical evaluation of the conditions monitored during the lockout period.

[0011] Some implementations relate to methods for controlling the hue of tintable windows in a building. In various aspects, the method includes defining one or more thresholds for environmental conditions over a defined time period, defining two or more discrete hue state values ​​for the tintable window, receiving input readings of actual conditions outside the building, and sending a hue command to transition the tintable window from a first hue state to a second hue state if the input readings exceed one or both of the one or more thresholds during the defined time period, and not further transitioning during a lockout period.

[0012] Some implementations relate to a controller for controlling the hue of a tintable window in a building. In various aspects, the controller includes a pulse width modulator (PWM) and a processor communicating with the PWM. The PWM communicates with the tintable window and is configured to send a signal with a hue instruction to change the hue of the tintable window when a hue command is received. The processor is configured to define one or more thresholds for environmental conditions within a defined time period, define two or more discrete hue state values ​​for the tintable window, receive input readings of actual conditions outside the building, and send a signal with a hue instruction to the PWM to transition the tintable window from a first hue state to a second hue state if the input reading exceeds one or both thresholds within the defined time period, and not to further transition during a lockout period.

[0013] These and other features and embodiments will now be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Attached Figure Description

[0014] Figure 1A-1C A schematic diagram showing an electrochromic device formed on a glass substrate, namely an electrochromic window.

[0015] Figure 2A and 2B Showing about Figure 1A-1C A schematic cross-sectional view of the electrochromic window integrated into the IGU.

[0016] Figure 3A A schematic cross-section of the electrochromic device is depicted.

[0017] Figure 3B A schematic cross-section of an electrochromic device in a bleaching state (or transitioning to a bleaching state) is depicted.

[0018] Figure 3C Depicting Figure 3B The schematic cross-section of the electrochromic device shown is in a colored state (or has been transformed into a colored state).

[0019] Figure 4 A simplified block diagram of the window controller components is shown.

[0020] Figure 5 A schematic diagram of a room including a colorable window and at least one sensor according to a disclosed embodiment is depicted.

[0021] Figures 6A-6C This includes a diagram depicting information collected by each of the three modules A, B, and C of the exemplary control logic according to the disclosed embodiments.

[0022] Figure 7 This is a flowchart illustrating the control logic of a method for controlling one or more electrochromic windows in a building according to an embodiment.

[0023] Figure 8 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the result of a thresholding operation from control logic according to an embodiment.

[0024] Figure 9 This is a diagram illustrating the shading decision of the control logic of a method for controlling a colorable window using hue averaging during a waiting period, according to an embodiment.

[0025] Figure 10 This is a diagram illustrating the shading decision of the control logic for controlling a colorable window according to an embodiment.

[0026] Figure 11A This is a diagram illustrating the color decision of the control logic for implementing a method excluding tail correction according to an embodiment.

[0027] Figure 11B This is a diagram illustrating the color decision of the control logic for performing a method including tail correction according to an embodiment.

[0028] Figure 12A , 12B Figures 12 and 12C are three diagrams illustrating the performance of a method executed by control logic according to an embodiment under clear weather conditions, intermittent cloud cover conditions, and cloudy-to-clear weather conditions.

[0029] Figure 13A , 13B Figures 1 and 13C are three diagrams illustrating the performance of a method executed by control logic according to an embodiment under clear weather conditions, intermittent cloud cover conditions, and cloudy to clear weather conditions.

[0030] Figure 14 A diagram illustrating the performance of a method executed by control logic according to an embodiment is depicted.

[0031] Figure 15 A diagram illustrating the performance of a method executed by control logic according to an embodiment is depicted.

[0032] Figure 16A diagram illustrating the performance of a method executed by control logic according to an embodiment is depicted.

[0033] Figure 17 A diagram illustrating the performance of a method executed by control logic according to an embodiment is depicted.

[0034] Figure 18 A diagram illustrating the performance of a method executed by control logic according to an embodiment is depicted.

[0035] Figure 19 A diagram illustrating the performance of a method executed by control logic according to an embodiment is depicted.

[0036] Figure 20 A diagram illustrating the performance of a method executed by control logic according to an embodiment is depicted.

[0037] Figure 21 A diagram depicting micro-oscillations was created.

[0038] Figure 22 Describing the use of with Figure 21 A graph comparing micro oscillations with macroscopic oscillations.

[0039] Figure 23 An example of a photoelectric sensor curve with a tail configuration defined by a predefined offset, according to an embodiment, is depicted.

[0040] Figure 24 Examples of photoelectric sensor curves under localized cloudy, overcast, and sunny conditions are shown according to embodiments.

[0041] Figure 25 An example of a residential lookup table according to an embodiment is described.

[0042] Figure 26A An example of a confidence matrix according to an embodiment is shown.

[0043] Figure 26B An example of a confidence matrix according to an embodiment is shown.

[0044] Figure 27 A diagram illustrating the performance of a method executed by control logic according to an embodiment is depicted.

[0045] Figure 28 A schematic diagram of an embodiment of a BMS according to an embodiment is depicted.

[0046] Figure 29 This is a block diagram of components of a system for controlling the function of one or more colorable windows of a building, according to an embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0047] 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 have not been described in detail so as not to unnecessarily obscure the disclosed embodiments. Although the disclosed embodiments will be described in conjunction with specific examples, it should be understood that this is not intended to limit the disclosed embodiments.

[0048] I. Overview of Electrochromic Devices It should be understood that while the disclosed embodiments focus on electrochromic windows (also known as smart windows), the concepts disclosed herein can be applied to other types of colorable windows. For example, colorable windows incorporating liquid crystal devices or suspended particle devices, instead of electrochromic devices, can be incorporated into any of the disclosed embodiments.

[0049] To familiarize the reader with embodiments of the systems, window controllers, and methods disclosed herein, a brief discussion of the electrochromic device is provided. This initial discussion of the electrochromic device is for context only, and embodiments of the systems, window controllers, and methods subsequently described are not limited to the specific features and manufacturing processes described in this initial discussion.

[0050] refer to Figure 1A-1C Specific examples of electrochromic windows are described to illustrate the embodiments described herein. Figure 1A This is a cross-sectional view of the electrochromic window 100 (see...) Figure 1C The section line X′-X′ is manufactured starting from glass plate 105. Figure 1B An end view of the electrochromic window 100 is shown (see [reference]). Figure 1C Observational perspective YY′ and Figure 1C Displaying a top view of the electrochromic window 100. Figure 1AThe electrochromic window is shown after fabrication on glass plate 105, with edges removed to create a region 140 surrounding the window perimeter. The electrochromic window is also laser-scribed and fitted with busbars. Glass window 105 has a diffusion barrier layer 110 and a first transparent conductive oxide (TCO) layer 115 on the diffusion barrier layer. In this example, the edge removal process removes both the TCO 115 and the diffusion barrier layer 110; however, in other embodiments, only the TCO is removed, leaving the diffusion barrier layer intact. The TCO 115 is the first of two conductive layers used to form electrodes for the electrochromic device fabricated on the glass plate. In this example, the glass plate includes an underlying glass and a diffusion barrier layer. Therefore, in this example, a diffusion barrier layer is formed, followed by the formation of a first TCO, an electrochromic stack 125 (e.g., having an electrochromic ion conductor and a counter electrode layer), and a second TCO 130. In one embodiment, the electrochromic device (electrochromic stack and second TCO) is fabricated in an integrated deposition system, wherein the glass plate does not leave the integrated deposition system at any time during the fabrication of the stack. In one embodiment, the integrated deposition system is also used to form a first TCO layer, wherein the glass plate does not leave the integrated deposition system during the deposition of the electrochromic stack and the (second) TCO layer. In one embodiment, all layers (diffusion barrier layer, first TCO, electrochromic stack and second TCO) are deposited in an integrated deposition system, wherein the glass plate does not leave the integrated deposition system during deposition. In this example, before depositing the electrochromic stack 125, an isolation trench 120 is cut through the TCO 115 and the diffusion barrier layer 110. After fabrication is complete, the trench 120 is fabricated taking into account the area of ​​the TCO 115 below the busbar 1 where electrical isolation will exist (see [link]). Figure 1A This is done to avoid charge buildup and staining of the electrochromic device under the busbar, which is undesirable.

[0051] After the electrochromic device is formed, an edge removal process and additional laser scribing are performed. Figure 1ARegion 140 is depicted where the device has been removed, in this example, from the peripheral area surrounding laser scribing trenches 150, 155, 160, and 165. Trenches 150, 160, and 165 pass through the electrochromic stack and also through the first TCO and diffusion barrier layer. Trench 155 passes through the second TCO 130 and the electrochromic stack, but not through the first TCO 115. Laser scribing trenches 150, 155, 160, and 165 are made to isolate portions 135, 145, 170, and 175 of the electrochromic device, which are potentially damaged during removal from the edges of the operable electrochromic device. In this example, laser scribing trenches 150, 160, and 165 pass only through the first TCO to aid in device isolation (laser scribing trench 155 does not pass through the first TCO, otherwise it would cut off the electrical communication of busbar 2' with the TCO and thus with the electrochromic stack). One or more lasers used for laser scribing are typically, but not necessarily, pulsed lasers, such as diode-pumped solid-state lasers. For example, the laser scribing process can be performed using suitable lasers from IPG Photonics (Oxford, Massachusetts) or Ekspla (Vilnius, Lithuania). Scribing can also be performed mechanically, such as by scribing with a diamond tip. Those skilled in the art will understand that the laser scribing process can be performed at different depths and / or in a single process, thereby varying or not varying the laser cutting depth during a continuous path around the periphery of the electrochromic device. In one embodiment, edge removal is performed to a depth of a first TCO.

[0052] After laser scribing is completed, busbars are connected. Non-penetrating busbar 1 is applied to the second TCO. Non-penetrating busbar 2 is applied to the area where no device is deposited (e.g., from a mask protecting the first TCO from device deposition), contacting the first TCO, or in this example, an edge removal process (e.g., laser ablation using a device with XY or XYZ galvanometers) is used to remove material into the first TCO. In this example, both busbar 1 and busbar 2 are non-penetrating buses. Penetrating buses are typically pressed in and through the electrochromic stack to contact the TCO at the bottom of the stack. Non-penetrating buses are buses that do not penetrate into the electrochromic stack, but rather make electrical and physical contact on the surface of a conductive layer such as the TCO.

[0053] The TCO layer can be electrically connected using non-traditional busbars, such as busbars fabricated using screen printing and photolithography patterning methods. In one embodiment, conductive ink is screen-printed (or patterned using another method), and then the ink is thermally cured or sintered to establish electrical communication with the transparent conductive layer of the device. Advantages of using the device configuration described above include, for example, simpler manufacturing and less laser scribing compared to conventional techniques using through-busbars.

[0054] After the busbars are connected, the device is integrated into an Insulated Glass Unit (IGU), which includes, for example, wiring the busbars. In some embodiments, one or both busbars are inside the completed IGU; however, in one embodiment, one busbar is located outside the seal of the IGU, and one busbar is located inside the IGU. In the previous embodiment, region 140 is used to form a seal with one face of the spacer used to form the IGU. Thus, wires or other connections to the busbars extend between the spacer and the glass. Since many spacers are made of metal (e.g., conductive stainless steel), it is desirable to take measures to avoid short circuits due to electrical connections between the busbars and connectors and the metal spacers.

[0055] As described above, after connecting the busbars, the electrochromic window is integrated into the IGU, which includes wiring such as the busbars. In the embodiment described herein, both busbars are located within the main seal of the finished IGU.

[0056] Figure 2A Showing about Figure 1A-1C The diagram shows a cross-sectional view of the electrochromic window integrated into the IGU 200. A spacer 205 separates the electrochromic window from the second window 210. The second window 210 in the IGU 200 is a non-electrochromic window; however, the embodiments disclosed herein are not limited thereto. For example, the window 210 may have an electrochromic device and / or one or more coatings, such as a low-E coating. The window 201 may also be laminated glass, as shown in the figure. Figure 2B As shown (window pane 201 is laminated to the reinforcing pane 230 via resin 235). Between the spacer 205 and the first TCO layer of the electrochromic window pane is the primary sealing material 215. This primary sealing material is also located between the spacer 205 and the second glass pane 210. Around the periphery of the spacer 205 are auxiliary seals 220. Busbar wiring / leads pass through the seals to connect to the controller. The auxiliary seals 220 can be much thicker than depicted. These seals help keep moisture outside the internal space 225 of the IGU. They also prevent the escape of argon or other gases from inside the IGU.

[0057] Figure 3AAn electrochromic device 300 is schematically depicted in cross-section. The electrochromic device 300 includes a substrate 302, a first conductive layer (CL) 304, an electrochromic layer (EC) 306, an ion-conducting layer (IC) 308, a counter electrode layer (CE) 310, and a second conductive layer (CL) 314. Layers 304, 306, 308, 310, and 314 are collectively referred to as an electrochromic stack 320. A voltage source 316 operable to apply a potential to the electrochromic stack 320 enables the electrochromic device to transition from, for example, a bleached state to a colored state (depicted). The order of the layers can be reversed relative to the substrate.

[0058] Electrochromic devices having the different layers described can be fabricated as all solid-state devices and / or all inorganic devices with low defect rates. Such devices and methods of fabrication thereof are described in more detail in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 12 / 645,111, entitled “Fabrication of Low-Defectivity Electrochromic Devices,” filed December 22, 2009, with Mark Kozlowski et al. as inventors, and in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 12 / 645,159, entitled “Electrochromic Devices,” filed December 22, 2009, with Zhongchun Wang et al. as inventors, both of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. However, it should be understood that any one or more layers in the stack may contain a certain amount of organic material. The same applies to liquids that may be present in small amounts in one or more layers. It should also be understood that solid materials can be deposited or otherwise formed using processes employing liquid components, such as certain processes employing sol-gel or chemical vapor deposition.

[0059] Furthermore, it should be understood that references to the transition between bleached and colored states are non-limiting and merely present one example of many possible electrochromic transitions. Unless otherwise stated herein (including the foregoing discussion), whenever a bleaching-colored transition is mentioned, the corresponding apparatus or process includes other optical state transitions, such as non-reflective to reflective, transparent to opaque, etc. Moreover, the term "bleached" refers to an optically neutral state, such as colorless, transparent, or translucent. Further, unless otherwise stated herein, the "color" of an electrochromic transition is not limited to any particular wavelength or wavelength range. As will be understood by those skilled in the art, the appropriate electrochromism and the choice of electrode material determine the associated optical transition.

[0060] 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 320 such that available ions in the stack are primarily located in the counter electrode 310. When the potential on the electrochromic stack reverses, ions are transported across the ion-conducting layer 308 to the electrochromic material 306 and transition the material to the 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, the darkest state, and an intermediate level between the bleached and darkest states).

[0061] Refer again Figure 3A The voltage source 316 can be configured to operate in conjunction with radiation and other environmental sensors. As described herein, the voltage source 316 interfaces with a device controller (not shown in the figure). Additionally, the voltage source 316 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 window openings), can significantly reduce building energy consumption.

[0062] Any material with suitable optical, electrical, thermal, and mechanical properties can be used as substrate 302. These substrates include, for example, glass, plastics, and mirror materials. Suitable glasses include clear or colored soda-lime glass, including soda-lime float glass. The glass can be tempered or untempered.

[0063] In many cases, the substrate is a glass pane sized to fit a residential window opening application. The size of this glass pane 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, to separate the interior environment from the exterior environment. In some embodiments, the architectural glass is at least 20 inches by 20 inches, but can be larger, for example, up to about 80 inches by 120 inches. Architectural glass is typically at least about 2 mm thick, and usually between about 3 mm and about 6 mm. Of course, the electrochromic device can be scaled relative to a substrate that is smaller or larger than the architectural glass. Furthermore, the electrochromic device can be mounted on a mirror of any size and shape.

[0064] A conductive layer 304 is situated on top of the substrate 302. In some embodiments, one or both of the conductive layers 304 and 314 are inorganic and / or solid. The conductive layers 304 and 314 can be made of a variety of different materials, including conductive oxides, thin metal coatings, conductive metal nitrides, and composite conductors. Typically, the conductive layers 304 and 314 are transparent at least within the wavelength range in which the electrochromic layer exhibits electrochromic properties. 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, zinc aluminum oxide, doped zinc oxide, ruthenium oxide, doped ruthenium oxide, etc. Because oxides are commonly used for 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, may also be used.

[0065] The function of the conductive layer is to distribute the potential provided by the voltage source 316 across the surface of the electrochromic stack 320 to the interior region of the stack with a relatively small ohmic potential drop. The potential is transferred to the conductive layer through electrical connections. In some embodiments, busbars (one in contact with conductive layer 304 and one in contact with conductive layer 314) provide the electrical connection between the voltage source 316 and conductive layers 304 and 314. Conductive layers 304 and 314 can also be connected to the voltage source 316 using other conventional methods.

[0066] The conductive overlay 304 is an electrochromic layer 306. In some embodiments, the electrochromic layer 306 is inorganic and / or solid. The electrochromic layer may comprise any one or more of a variety 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 306 transfers ions to the counter electrode layer 310 and receives ions from the anode-colored counter electrode layer 310 to induce an optical transition.

[0067] Typically, the coloration (or any change in optical properties—e.g., absorbance, reflectance, and transmittance) of electrochromic materials is caused by reversible ion insertion (e.g., embedding) and corresponding charge-balancing electron injection into the material. Typically, a subset of the ions responsible for the optical transition are irreversibly bound in the electrochromic material. Some or all of these irreversibly bound ions serve to compensate for the “blind charge” in the material. In most electrochromic materials, suitable ions include lithium ions (Li ions). +) and hydrogen ions (H + (i.e., protons). However, in some cases, other ions will be suitable. In various embodiments, lithium ions are used to produce the electrochromic phenomenon. Lithium ions are intercalated into tungsten oxide (WO3). 3-y (0<y≤~0.3) makes tungsten oxide change from transparent (bleached state) to blue (colored state).

[0068] Refer again Figure 3A In the electrochromic stack 320, an ion-conducting layer 308 is sandwiched between the electrochromic layer 306 and the counter-electrode layer 310. In some embodiments, the counter-electrode layer 310 is inorganic and / or solid. The counter-electrode layer may comprise one or more of a variety of different materials, which serve as an ion reservoir when the electrochromic device is in a bleaching 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, thereby changing the electrochromic layer to a colored state. Simultaneously, in the case of NiWO, the counter-electrode layer colors with the loss of ions.

[0069] 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 oxide (MnO2), and Prussian blue.

[0070] When the charge is removed from the counter electrode 310 made of nickel tungsten oxide (i.e., ions are transported from the counter electrode 310 to the electrochromic layer 306), the counter electrode layer will change from a transparent state to a colored state.

[0071] In the depicted electrochromic device, an ion-conducting layer 308 is present between the electrochromic layer 306 and the counter electrode layer 310. The ion-conducting layer 308 serves as a medium for transporting ions (in the form of an electrolyte) through the electrochromic device as it transitions between a bleaching state and a coloring state. Preferably, the ion-conducting layer 308 has high conductivity for the relevant ions of the electrochromic layer and the counter electrode layer, but sufficiently low electronic conductivity to allow negligible electron transfer during normal operation. The thin ion-conducting layer with high ion conductivity allows for rapid ion conduction and thus rapid switching to achieve a high-performance electrochromic device. In some embodiments, the ion-conducting layer 308 is inorganic and / or solid.

[0072] 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 oxide comprises lithium silicon-aluminum-oxide. In some embodiments, the ion-conducting layer comprises a silicate-based structure. In some embodiments, silicon-aluminum-oxide (SiAlO) is used for ion-conducting layer 308.

[0073] The electrochromic device 300 may include one or more additional layers (not shown), such as one or more passive layers. Passive layers for improving certain optical properties may be included in the electrochromic device 300. Passive layers for providing moisture resistance or scratch resistance may also be included in the electrochromic device 300. 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 300.

[0074] Figure 3B This is a schematic cross-section of an electrochromic device in a bleached state (or transitioning to a bleached state). According to a specific embodiment, the electrochromic device 400 includes a tungsten oxide electrochromic layer (EC) 406 and a nickel-tungsten oxide counter electrode layer (CE) 410. The electrochromic device 400 also includes a substrate 402, a conductive layer (CL) 404, an ion-conducting layer (IC) 408, and a conductive layer (CL) 414.

[0075] Power source 416 is configured to apply potential and / or current to electrochromic stack 420 via suitable connections (e.g., busbars) to conductive layers 404 and 414. In some embodiments, the voltage source is configured to apply a potential of approximately a few volts to drive the device to transition from one optical state to another. Figure 3A The polarity of the potential shown indicates that ions (lithium ions in this example) are mainly present in the nickel-tungsten oxide counter electrode layer 410 (as indicated by the dashed arrow).

[0076] Figure 3C yes Figure 3B The schematic cross-section of the electrochromic device 400 shown is shown, but it is in a colored state (or has transitioned to a colored state). Figure 3CIn this configuration, the polarity reversal of voltage source 416 makes the electrochromic layer more negative, allowing it to accept additional lithium ions and thus transition to a colored state. As indicated by the dashed arrow, lithium ions are transported across ion-conducting layer 408 to tungsten oxide electrochromic layer 406. Tungsten oxide electrochromic layer 406 is shown in its colored state. Nickel-tungsten oxide counter electrode 410 is also shown in its colored state. As explained, nickel-tungsten oxide gradually becomes less transparent as it relinquishes (deintercalates) lithium ions. In this example, there is a synergistic effect, where the transition to the colored state of both layers 406 and 410 helps reduce the amount of light transmitted through the stack and substrate.

[0077] As described above, an electrochromic device may comprise an electrochromic (EC) electrode layer and a counter electrode (CE) layer, separated by an ionically conductive (IC) layer that is highly conductive to ions and highly resistive to electrons. As conventionally understood, the ionically conductive layer thus prevents short circuits between the electrochromic layer and the counter electrode layer. The ionically conductive layer allows the electrochromic and counter electrodes to retain their charge, thereby maintaining their bleached or colored state. In electrochromic devices with different layers, components are stacked, the stack comprising the ionically conductive layer sandwiched between the electrochromic electrode layer and the counter electrode layer. The boundary between these three stacked components is defined by abrupt changes in composition and / or microstructure. Therefore, these devices have three distinct layers with two abrupt interfaces.

[0078] According to some embodiments, the counter electrode and the electrochromic electrode are formed adjacent to each other, sometimes in direct contact, without separately depositing an ion-conducting layer. In some embodiments, an electrochromic device with an interface region is used instead of different IC layers. Such a device and its manufacturing method are described in the following documents: U.S. Patent 8,300,298 and U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 12 / 772,075, filed April 30, 2010, and U.S. Patent Application Serial Nos. 12 / 814,277 and 12 / 814,279, filed June 11, 2010, each entitled “Electrochromic Device,” and each listed Zhongchun Wang et al. as inventors, all of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0079] II. Window Controller A window controller is used to control the hue level of the electrochromic device of an electrochromic window. In some embodiments, the window controller is capable of switching the electrochromic window between two hue states (levels): a bleached state and a tinted state. In other embodiments, the controller may additionally switch the electrochromic window (e.g., having a single electrochromic device) to an intermediate hue level. In some disclosed embodiments, the window controller is capable of switching the electrochromic window to four or more hue levels. Some electrochromic windows allow intermediate hue levels by using two (or more) electrochromic window panes in a single IGU, where each pane is a dual-state pane. This will be referred to in this section. Figure 2A and 2B describe.

[0080] As mentioned above Figure 2A and 2B In some embodiments, the electrochromic window may include an electrochromic device 400 on one pane of the IGU 200 and another electrochromic device 400 on other panes of the IGU 200. If the window controller is capable of switching each electrochromic device between two states (bleached state and tinted state), the electrochromic window can achieve four different states (hue levels): a tinted state where both electrochromic devices are tinted, a first intermediate state where one electrochromic device is tinted, a second intermediate state where the other electrochromic device is tinted, and a bleached state where both electrochromic devices are bleached. Embodiments of multi-pane electrochromic windows are further described in U.S. Patent No. 8,270,059, inventors Robin Friedman et al., entitled “MULTI-PANE ELECTROCHROMIC WINDOWS,” the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0081] In some embodiments, a window controller is capable of transforming an electrochromic window having an electrochromic device that can switch between two or more hue levels. For example, the window controller may be able to transform the electrochromic window to a bleached state, one or more intermediate levels, and a tinted state. In some other embodiments, the window controller is capable of transforming an electrochromic window containing an electrochromic device between any number of hue levels between a bleached state and a tinted state. Embodiments of a method and controller for transforming an electrochromic window to one or more intermediate hue levels are further described in U.S. Patent No. 8,254,013, entitled “Controlling Transitions in an Optically Switchable Device,” by DishaMehtani et al., the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0082] In some embodiments, the window controller can power one or more electrochromic devices in the electrochromic window. Typically, this functionality of the window controller is enhanced by one or more other functions, which are described in more detail below. The window controllers described herein are not limited to those that have the function of powering electrochromic devices associated with 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 a power supply with a window controller and configure the controller to directly power the window, as this eliminates the need for separate wiring to power the electrochromic window.

[0083] Furthermore, the window controllers described in this section are described as stand-alone 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, window controllers can be integrated into a building control network or BMS, as further described in the "Building Management System" section of this disclosure.

[0084] Figure 4 A block diagram depicts some components of the window controller 450 and other components of the window controller system of the disclosed embodiment. Figure 4 This is a simplified block diagram of a window controller. More details about the window controller can be found in the following documents: U.S. Patent Application Serial Nos. 13 / 449,248 and 13 / 449,251, both inventors of Stephen Brown, both entitled “Controller for Optically Switchable Windows” and both filed April 17, 2012; and U.S. Patent Serial No. 13 / 449,235, entitled “Controlling the Switching of Optically Switchable Devices”, inventors of Stephen Brown et al., filed April 17, 2012. All of these are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0085] exist Figure 4 The illustrated components of window controller 450 include a window controller 450 having a microprocessor 455 or other processor, a pulse width modulator 460, a signal conditioning module 465, and a computer-readable medium (e.g., memory) having a profile 475. Window controller 450 electronically communicates with one or more electrochromic devices 400 in the electrochromic window via a network 480 (wired or wireless), sending instructions to one or more electrochromic devices 400. In some embodiments, window controller 450 may be a local window controller that communicates with a main window controller via a network (wired or wireless).

[0086] In the disclosed embodiments, the building may have at least one room with an electrochromic window between the exterior and interior of the building. One or more sensors may be located on the exterior of the building and / or inside the room. In embodiments, the output from one or more sensors may be input to the signal conditioning module 465 of the window controller 450. In some cases, the output from one or more sensors may be input to the BMS, as further described in the “Building Management System” section. Although the sensors in the illustrated embodiments are shown as being located on the exterior vertical wall of the building, this is for simplicity, and the sensors may also be located in other locations, such as indoors or on other exterior surfaces. In some cases, two or more sensors may be used to measure the same input, which can provide redundancy in the event of a sensor failure or other erroneous readings.

[0087] Figure 5 A schematic (side view) view of a room 500 having an electrochromic window 505 with at least one electrochromic device is depicted. The electrochromic window 505 is located between the exterior and interior of the building including the room 500. The room 500 also includes a window controller 450, which is connected to and configured to control the hue level of the electrochromic window 505. An external sensor 510 is located on a vertical surface on the exterior of the building. In other embodiments, an internal sensor may also be used to measure ambient light in the room 500. In other embodiments, an occupant sensor may also be used to determine when an occupant is in the room 500.

[0088] External sensor 510 is a device such as a photoelectric sensor that can detect radiant light incident on a device from a light source such as the sun, or light reflected from surfaces, particles in the atmosphere, clouds, etc. External sensor 510 can generate a signal in the form of an electric current produced by the photoelectric effect, and the signal can be a function of the light incident on sensor 510. In some cases, the device can detect radiant light in units of watts per square meter (W / m²) or other similar units. In other cases, the device can 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 irradiance values ​​and visible light.

[0089] Because the angle at which sunlight hits the Earth varies, the irradiance value from sunlight can be calculated based on the time of day and the time of year. The external sensor 510 can detect irradiance in real time, interpreting variations due to reflections and obstructions from buildings, weather conditions (such as clouds), etc. For example, on a cloudy day, sunlight is blocked by clouds, and the irradiance detected by the external sensor 510 will be lower than on a cloudless day.

[0090] In some embodiments, one or more external sensors 510 may be associated with a single electrochromic window 505. Outputs from one or more external sensors 510 can be compared to each other to determine, for example, whether one of the external sensors 510 is blocked by an object, such as a bird landing on it. In some cases, it may be desirable to use relatively few sensors in a building because some sensors may be unreliable and / or expensive. In some implementations, a single sensor or several sensors may be used to determine the current level of solar radiation hitting the building or possibly one side of the building. Clouds may pass in front of the sun, or construction vehicles may park before sunset. These will cause deviations from the calculated amount of solar radiation hitting a building normally.

[0091] The external sensor 510 can be a type of optical sensor. For example, the external sensor 510 can be a charge-coupled device (CCD), a photodiode, a photoresistor, or a photovoltaic cell. Those skilled in the art will understand that future developments in photoelectric sensors and other sensor technologies will also play a role, as they measure light intensity and provide an electrical output representing the light level.

[0092] In some embodiments, the output from external sensor 510 can be input to signal conditioning module 465. The input can be in the form of a voltage signal to signal conditioning module 465. Signal conditioning module 465 transmits the output signal to window controller 450. Window controller 450 determines the hue level of electrochromic window 505 based on various information from profile 475, the output from signal conditioning module 465, and the override value. Window controller 450 then instructs PWM 460 to apply voltage and / or current to electrochromic window 505 to transition to the desired hue level.

[0093] In the disclosed embodiments, window controller 450 may instruct PWM 460 to apply voltage and / or current to electrochromic window 505 to convert it to any one of four or more different hue levels. In the disclosed embodiments, electrochromic window 505 may convert to at least eight different hue levels, described as: 0 (brightest), 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, and 35 (darkest). The hue levels may linearly correspond to the visual transmittance value and solar thermal gain coefficient (SHGC) value of light transmitted through electrochromic window 505. For example, using the eight hue levels mentioned above, the brightest hue level 0 corresponds to an SHGC value of 0.80, hue level 5 corresponds to an SHGC value of 0.70, hue level 10 corresponds to an SHGC value of 0.60, hue level 15 corresponds to an SHGC value of 0.50, hue level 20 corresponds to an SHGC value of 0.40, hue level 25 corresponds to an SHGC value of 0.30, hue level 30 corresponds to an SHGC value of 0.20, and hue level 35 (the darkest) corresponds to an SHGC value of 0.10.

[0094] The window controller 450, or a main controller communicating with the window controller 450, can use any one or more control logic components to determine the desired hue level based on signals from external sensor 510 and / or other inputs. The window controller 450 can instruct PWM 460 to apply voltage and / or current to the electrochromic window 505 to convert it to the desired hue level.

[0095] III. Introduction to the control logic for executing intermediate tone states When using some of the tone control techniques discussed above, when the photoelectric sensor reading rises above a certain value, the tone level of a colorable window may skip several tone levels, and then the window cannot initiate a new transition until the multi-level transition is complete. As a result, large windows may get stuck while transitioning to inappropriate high or low tone levels for an extended period. These and similar methods can also clear windows too quickly at sunset, or clouds and tones too quickly at sunrise.

[0096] The control logic for implementing the intermediate hue state described herein utilizes a fast switching operation to transition to the intermediate hue state and the ability to initiate a new transition before the previous transition is complete, allowing for a smoother adaptation to current conditions. Generally, the described control logic is used to execute methods for controlling hue transitions in electrochromic windows or other colorable windows, taking into account occupant comfort and / or energy-saving considerations. These methods have a threshold operation that determines whether a photoelectric sensor reading has exceeded a threshold. Based on the threshold processing result, these methods make a hue decision, send a hue command to control the transition in the colorable window, and do not perform any further transitions during the lockout period (i.e., maintain the hue state). In some cases, the method makes a hue decision after the lockout period based on statistically probable conditions determined from input data acquired during the lockout period.

[0097] Throughout the day, photoelectric sensors can be used to measure the solar irradiance of a colorable window, which can be used to determine the current conditions outside the building. Alternatively, other data such as infrared readings, weather feed data, etc., can be used to determine the current conditions. Figure 9 A graph is plotted, showing the photoelectric sensor curve 970 for irradiance readings collected by the photoelectric sensor over time throughout the day. As shown, the range of photoelectric sensor values ​​is divided by thresholds, in this case, by a lower threshold of approximately 100 (920) and an upper threshold of approximately 380 (922). A "hue region" or "hue state assignable region" typically refers to the area between thresholds. That is, the thresholds define the boundaries of the hue region. A single hue level or multiple hue levels can be assigned to each hue region. Figure 9 In the process, the first hue region is below the lower threshold 920, the second hue region is between the lower threshold 920 and the upper threshold 922, and the third hue region is above the upper threshold 922. Modules A and B are used to determine the hue level.

[0098] The method described in this paper determines the applied threshold based on whether the current time is in a tail phase or a daytime phase. According to one aspect, a tail phase is the end region of the photodetector curve (i.e., the curve of photodetector readings changing over time) that occurs just after sunrise and just before sunset. The sunrise tail phase begins at sunrise, and the sunset tail phase ends at sunset. In the sunrise tail phase, photodetector values ​​on a clear day change from complete darkness before sunrise to very clear weather with direct sunlight. In the sunset tail phase, photodetector values ​​on a clear day change from very clear weather just before sunset to complete darkness within a short period. For this reason, the thresholds typically used in the daytime phase, which falls between the sunrise and sunset tail phases, are less effective in the tail region. The daytime phase lies between the sunrise and sunset tail phases.

[0099] On the other hand, based on an assessment of the smoothness or discontinuity, oscillation frequency, and / or slope of the photoelectric sensor curves, it can be determined whether the current time is in a tail-end scenario or a daytime scenario. For example, if the sensor readings fluctuate significantly between low and high sensor readings (high frequency of oscillations), localized cloud conditions can be determined; if the sensor readings typically fluctuate between relatively low readings (lower oscillation frequency and generally low-value flat slope), cloud conditions can be determined; and if the slope of the readings is steep and typically has little or no oscillations, clear weather conditions can be determined. Figure 24 Examples of photoelectric sensor readings under clear, partially cloudy, and cloudy conditions are shown. In one scenario, if the sensor reading indicates cloudy or partially cloudy conditions, the method determines the current time is in the tail end scenario, and if the sensor reading indicates clear conditions, it determines the current time is in the daytime scenario. In another scenario, if the sensor reading indicates cloudy conditions, the method determines the current time is in the tail end scenario, and if the sensor reading indicates partially cloudy or clear conditions, it determines the current time is in the daytime scenario.

[0100] In some embodiments, the control method makes a hue determination using photoelectric sensor readings and optional other inputs to see if a hue transition is suggested. For example, a high solar irradiance reading above an upper threshold may indicate a clear sky and sunny weather. Even if the method suggests transitions to more than two hue zones, a hue command is sent to transition the window to only a single hue zone. If the final hue zone is indicated by control logic that depends on current external conditions (e.g., clear sky and sunny weather, intermittent clouds, etc.), the method locks out further transitions during the lockout period. During the lockout period, the control method monitors inputs regarding external conditions and evaluates events that occurred during the waiting time (known historical data). Once out of the lockout period, the method determines the current state and suggested hue zone based on a statistical evaluation of the conditions monitored during the lockout period. More details about these methods can be found in the following sections.

[0101] In the daytime scheme, there are typically at least two thresholds and at least three tonal regions. In the tail scheme, there are typically at least one threshold and at least two tonal regions. In some instances described herein, the tail scheme has one threshold and two tonal regions, and the daytime scheme has two thresholds and three tonal regions. For example, the daytime scheme may have two thresholds and a first tonal region associated with hue 2, a second tonal region associated with hue 3, and a third tonal region associated with hue 4, determined by module A / B (or more generally, by a technique independent of current external conditions). In this instance, the tail scheme has one threshold and a first tonal region associated with hue 2 and a third tonal region associated with hue 4. That is, the second tonal region is absent in the tail scheme.

[0102] Figure 11A and Figure 11B This includes a graph showing the relationship between photoelectric sensor readings and the time of day. Figure 11B The figure illustrates the resulting hue level based on hue decisions made using control logic with tail correction, i.e., different thresholds in the tail scheme compared to different thresholds in the daytime scheme, typically with a smaller value. Figure 11A The figure illustrates the resulting hue level based on hue determination using control logic without tail correction, meaning the threshold level is the same in both the tail scheme and the daytime scheme. Figure 11A The graph illustrates a single threshold level 1120 and hue level 1130 at 1110, 400, on the photodetector curve. Hue level 1130 rises to its highest hue level when the photodetector reading exceeds threshold level 1120 around sunrise, and hue level 1120 falls to its lowest hue level when the photodetector reading drops below threshold level 1120 before sunset. Figure 11A In the graph, the photoelectric sensor curve 1140 is shown, the first threshold 1150 at a lower level and the second threshold 1155 at a higher level in the daytime scheme between the tail schemes, and the hue level 1160.

[0103] The lockout period (also known as the "wait time") refers to the time during which a no-coloring command is issued. During the wait time, the method performs hue calculations but does not send a hue command. The wait time serves as a damping mechanism to prevent rapid changes during transitions. Different regions and / or different windows can have different wait times. The wait time is typically between 0 seconds and the transition time of the window or the representative window in the window region. In one instance, the duration of the wait time is the transition time of the largest window in the region.

[0104] In some instances described herein, the control logic makes shading decisions to transition to four hue levels (hue 1 is also referred to as "T1", hue 2 as "T2", hue 3 as "T3", and hue 4 as "T4"). In one instance, T1 corresponds to approximately 50% (+ / -10%) transmittance through the shading window panes (slats), T2 corresponds to a range of 25%–30% (+ / -10%) transmittance through the shading window panes (slats), T3 corresponds to approximately 7% (+ / -10%) transmittance through the shading window panes (slats), and T4 (the darkest hue) corresponds to approximately 1% (+ / -10%) transmittance through the shading window panes (slats). In some cases, when the control logic determines that intermediate cloud cover and high thin clouds are most likely, the control logic uses T3 corresponding to approximately 7% transmittance through the shading window panes (slats).

[0105] In some cases, control logic can execute one or more logic modules to determine the hue level within a hue region. For example, if a photodetector reading is above a maximum threshold indicating near-sunny conditions, logic modules A and B (or more generally, one or more modules independent of currently determined external conditions) can be used to determine the hue level. If a photodetector reading is below a maximum threshold indicating less than-sunny conditions, logic module C (or more generally, one or more modules dependent on currently determined external conditions) can be used to determine the hue level. Examples of logic modules A and B are described in International PCT Application PCT / US2015 / 029675, filed May 5, 2015, entitled “CONTROL METHOD FOR TINTABLE WINDOWS,” which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. In some cases, module C uses certain operations of module C described in PCT Patent Application PCT / US2015 / 029675. Examples of control logic can also be found in International PCT Application PCT / US16 / 41344, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0106] In some instances, logic module A can be used to determine a hue level that considers the comfort of an occupant to direct sunlight penetrating a tintable window into the occupant or their activity area. The hue level is determined based on the calculated penetration depth of direct sunlight into the room and the type of space in the room at a given time (e.g., a table near a window, in a hallway, etc.). Each space type is associated with a different hue level of occupant comfort. For example, if the activity is critical, such as work done at an office desk or computer, and the desk is near a window, the hue level determined by module A may be higher than if the desk were farther from the window. As another example, if the activity is non-critical, such as activity in a hallway, the hue level determined by module A may be lower than the hue level of the same space with a table. In some cases, the hue level may also be based on providing sufficient natural light to the room. The problem addressed in module A is that direct sunlight can penetrate the room so deeply that it directly illuminates people working at a desk or other activity areas of the room. Publicly available programs can provide calculations of the sun's position and allow for the calculation of penetration depth.

[0107] According to an embodiment, module B can be used to determine the hue level based on calculated values ​​of solar irradiance under clear sky conditions flowing through a considered colorable window. Various software programs, such as the open-source RADIANCE program, can be used to calculate clear sky irradiance at a given latitude, longitude, time of year, time of day, and window orientation.

[0108] Generally, module C makes hue decisions based on determinations of various inputs from one or more devices in a building system with the tintable windows under consideration. Some examples of input devices that can provide inputs include, for example, visible light photoelectric sensors, infrared detectors, weather feeds, etc.

[0109] Figures 6A-6C This includes a diagram depicting some information collected by each of the three logic modules A, B, and C, which are executed by the exemplary control logic of the disclosed embodiments. Figure 6A This diagram illustrates the penetration depth of direct sunlight entering room 500 at a specific moment through an electrochromic window 505 between the exterior and interior of a building, including room 500. Penetration depth is a measure of the extent to which direct sunlight will penetrate room 500. As shown, the penetration depth is measured horizontally away from the threshold (bottom) of window 505. Typically, a window defines an opening that provides a receiving angle for direct sunlight. The penetration depth is calculated based on the window's geometry (e.g., window size), its location and orientation within the room, any external shading such as radiators or other external obstructions outside the window, and the sun's position (e.g., the angle of direct sunlight at a particular time and date). External shading of the electrochromic window 505 can be due to the structure of any type of shadeable window, such as overhangs, radiators, etc. Figure 6A In this room 500, a cantilever 520 is present above the electrochromic window 505, which blocks a portion of direct sunlight from entering the room 500, thereby reducing the depth of sunlight penetration. The room 500 also includes a local window controller 450, which is connected to and configured to control the hue level of the electrochromic window 505. An external sensor 510 is located on a vertical surface outside the building. Figure 6A A table in room 500 is also shown as an example of the space type associated with an activity area (i.e., the table) and the location of the activity area (i.e., the table's location). Module A can be used to determine a hue level that takes into account the comfort of the occupant from direct sunlight passing through the electrochromic window 505 to the occupant or their activity area. For example, Module A can determine the hue level based on the calculated penetration depth of direct sunlight into room 500 and the space type of the table located in the room at a given time (e.g., a table near a window, in a hallway, etc.). In some cases, the hue level can also be based on providing sufficient natural light to the room.

[0110] Figure 6B It shows at a specific moment Figure 6B Room 500, in which direct sunlight and solar radiation enter through electrochromic window 505 under sunny conditions. Solar radiation can originate from sunlight scattered by molecules and particles in the atmosphere. Module B can be used to determine the hue level based on calculated values ​​of solar irradiance under sunny conditions flowing through the considered electrochromic window 505.

[0111] Figure 6C It shows Figure 6A and 6B Room 500 has radiated light from the sky, which can be blocked or reflected by objects such as buildings or weather conditions (e.g., clouds), which are not considered in the clear sky calculation of Module B.

[0112] In some embodiments, the control logic may execute one or more of logic modules A, B, and C to make tinting decisions for each electrochromic window (e.g., electrochromic window 505) in the building. Each electrochromic window may have a unique set of dimensions, orientation (e.g., vertical, horizontal, tilted at an angle), location, associated space type, etc. A configuration file containing this information and other information may be stored for each electrochromic window. Configuration file 475 (reference) Figure 4 The configuration file 475 may be stored in a computer-readable medium 470 of the local window controller 450 of the electrochromic window 505 or in a building management system (“BMS”). The configuration file 475 may include information such as window configuration, occupancy lookup tables, information about associated reference glass, and / or other data used by the control logic. The window configuration may include information such as the size of the electrochromic window, its orientation, and its location.

[0113] The lookup table describes different tonal levels that provide occupant comfort for certain space types and depths of penetration. In other words, the tonal levels in the occupant lookup table are designed to provide comfort for occupants in a room from direct sunlight on the occupant or their workspace. An example of an occupant lookup table is... Figure 25 As shown. The hue levels in the table are expressed in Tvis (visible light transmittance). The table includes different hue levels (Tvis) for specific space types and different combinations of penetration depth values ​​(2 feet, 4 feet, 8 feet, and 15 feet) calculated when the sun angle θ is between the window receiving angles θ1 = 30 degrees and θ2 = 120 degrees. vis (Values). The table is based on four hue levels: 4% (brightest), 20%, 40%, and 63%.

[0114] Space type is a measure used to determine how much tinting is needed to address occupant comfort issues and / or provide comfortable natural lighting in a room for a given penetration depth. Space type parameters can take many factors into account. These factors include the type of work or other activity performed in a particular room and the location of that activity. Close work related to a detailed study requiring significant attention might be one space type, while a lounge or meeting room might have a different space type. Additionally, the position of a table or other work surface relative to a window is a consideration in defining a space type. For example, a space type might be associated with an office for a single occupant, which has a table or other workspace located near a tinting window. As another example, a space type could be a lobby. In some cases, the space type can be part of a profile maintained by the building or stored in a local window controller. In some cases, the profile can be updated to account for various changes in the building. For example, if the space type in the building changes (e.g., a table moved in an office, an addition of a table, a lobby converted into an office area, a wall moved, etc.), an updated profile with a modified occupant lookup table can be stored on a computer-readable medium. As another example, if an occupant repeatedly taps a manual over-the-window, the profile can be updated to reflect the manual over-the-window.

[0115] IV. Exemplary control method for implementing intermediate tone states Some aspects involve probabilistic control logic for methods used to control one or more tintable windows (e.g., electrochromic windows) in a building. These control methods employ statistical probabilistic approaches to make tint decisions. Typically, building systems with one or more tintable windows have access to various types of input regarding the current external conditions at the windows (e.g., photoelectric sensor readings, weather feed data, infrared readings, etc.). For example, photoelectric sensor readings and / or weather feed data can be used to indicate cloudy conditions, while infrared readings can be used to indicate sunny conditions. The control methods statistically evaluate the inputs to determine the most statistically probable external condition and use the possible outcome to make a tint decision. In this way, these control methods employ probabilistic methods to determine tint decisions based on known information about the current conditions at one or more tintable windows.

[0116] In some cases, this control method determines the confidence level of the most likely condition. If less confidence is needed, more information (more input) can be used to determine the condition. In these cases, the control method can use a confidence matrix and / or another probabilistic method to determine the hue decision based on the statistically best answer from various device inputs. The confidence matrix maps the statistically best answer to various combinations of inputs. For example, in a case where photoelectric sensor readings and weather feed data indicate cloudy conditions while infrared readings indicate clear conditions, the combination of inputs in the confidence matrix can output that it is likely cloudy.

[0117] Different methods can be used to determine the statistically best possible answer from various inputs from various devices. In some cases, all inputs from various devices are used to determine the statistically possible conditions. In other cases, a set of one or more inputs is used. An example of a confidence matrix is... Figure 26A As shown. Another example of a confidence matrix is ​​as follows. Figure 26B As shown. In some cases, these probabilistic methods are used to determine the most likely outcome during a lockout.

[0118] In some cases, during the waiting period, the control method can populate the confidence matrix and determine the statistically best possible answer from various device inputs. For example, the control method can run statistical analyses of one or more inputs to determine the confidence level for the differential hue decision in order to populate the confidence matrix during the lockout period. Some examples of the types of statistical analyses that can be used to populate the confidence matrix include, for example, frequency analysis, data trending, averaging data, calculating data points, biasing by a weighted average, etc. To illustrate the different ways of determining confidence in hue decisions, Figure 27 The sensor readings are shown during a 20-minute waiting period at the minute readings.

[0119] In one instance, the control method calculates the number of sensor readings indicating a specific hue level during a waiting period to determine the confidence level of that specific hue level. Figure 27 In the illustrated example, the number of sensor readings shows 11 counts for hue 3, 5 counts for hue 4, and 4 counts for hue 2. Based on these counts, there appears to be a high level of confidence for hue 3.

[0120] In another example, the control method uses a hue average of hue levels determined over a waiting period. This average can be a linear average, a mean, or a weighted average. The weighted average assigns weights to specific hue levels. In one aspect, this control method uses biased data by using a weighted average obtained over the waiting period. For example, points closer to the current time can have a higher weight than points farther from the current time. Figure 27 In the example shown, the linear average is 3.05 and the control logic will output a hue of 3 based on the linear average.

[0121] Figure 7This is a flowchart illustrating the control logic of a method for controlling one or more electrochromic windows in a building according to an embodiment. The control logic begins at operation 701 at a specific time that is not during a locking period and is not during the night before sunrise or after sunset. In one aspect, if the time is during a nighttime scheme (e.g., control logic based on building security and other considerations), the control logic may execute nighttime logic.

[0122] In operation 710, the control logic performs an operation to determine the current scheme (e.g., tail scheme or day scheme) at a specific time and determines associated tone region conversion parameters, such as a threshold or value, a predefined tail scheme offset, and a waiting time during the lockout period. The operation determines whether the time is in the tail scheme, and if not, whether the time is in the day scheme. The control logic can employ various methods to determine whether the time is in the tail scheme.

[0123] In one approach, the tailing scheme is based on predefined offsets from the times of sunrise and sunset of the day. That is, the first sunrise tailing scheme begins at sunrise and extends after sunrise at a first predefined offset, and the sunset tailing scheme ends at sunset and begins before sunset at a second predefined offset. The first and second predefined offsets typically have the same or similar durations. The daytime scheme extends after the sunrise tailing scheme and before the sunset tailing scheme. When using this method, the control logic determines whether the current time is within the predefined offsets from either the sunset / sunrise or daytime scheme. Figure 23 An example of a light sensor curve with a tail configuration defined by a first predefined offset, Δ1, and a second predefined offset, Δ2, is shown.

[0124] Another method for determining whether a time is in a tail-end or day-end scenario involves assessing the smoothness or discontinuity, oscillation frequency, and / or slope of the sensor curve to determine whether the reading indicates that the time is in a tail-end scenario. Figure 24Examples of photoelectric sensor curves for partially cloudy, overcast, and sunny conditions according to embodiments are shown. As illustrated, during partially cloudy conditions, sensor readings typically fluctuate significantly between low and high sensor readings (high frequency of oscillations). During cloudy conditions, sensor readings typically fluctuate between relatively low readings (lower oscillation frequency and generally lower, flatter slope). Under sunny conditions, the slope is steep, and there is typically little oscillation. Using this method, control logic determines whether the moment is in a daytime scenario or a tail-end scenario based on the oscillation frequency, oscillation amplitude, slope, and other characteristics of the photoelectric sensor curve. For example, the control logic evaluates one or more of these characteristics of the photoelectric sensor curve to determine whether the moment is in a tail-end scenario, i.e., where daytime thresholding is less effective. In one case, the control logic determines whether the sensor reading indicates partially cloudy, cloudy, or sunny conditions. In one aspect, if the control logic determines that the sensor reading indicates cloudy or partially cloudy conditions, the control logic determines that the moment is in a tail-end scenario. If the control logic determines sunny conditions based on the reading, the control logic determines that the moment is in the daytime region. On the other hand, if the control logic determines that the reading indicates cloudy conditions, it determines the time is in the tail phase. If the control logic determines that the reading indicates partially cloudy or clear conditions, it determines the time is in the daytime phase. In the daytime phase, the control logic typically has at least two thresholds and at least three hue regions. In the tail phase, the control logic typically has at least one threshold and at least two hue regions.

[0125] In operation 720, the current photoelectric sensor reading (and optionally other inputs) is received, reflecting the conditions outside the building. This thresholding operation calculates a suggested hue region by determining whether the current sensor reading (and optionally other inputs) crosses one or more thresholds over a period of time, such as between the current time and the last reading, or between current time and multiple previously acquired readings. Readings can be taken periodically, such as once per minute, once every 10 seconds, once every 10 minutes, etc. The threshold is determined based on the current scheme in operation 710.

[0126] refer to Figure 8The graph illustrating the relationship between photoelectric sensor readings and time describes an example of threshold processing operation. In this example, there are three hue regions: a first hue region 820, a second hue region 830, and a third hue region 840; and two thresholds that define the boundaries of the hue regions: a first threshold 850 and a second threshold 860. In this example, if the operation determines that the photoelectric sensor reading is below the first threshold 850 in the first hue region 820, the operation suggests hue 2. If the operation determines that the photoelectric sensor reading is above the first threshold 850 and below the second threshold 860 in the second hue region 830, the operation suggests hue 3. Above the second threshold 850 in the third hue region 840, the operation suggests using module A and / or module B to determine the hue level. Photoelectric sensor curve 870 is also shown. As shown, from 12:00 AM to approximately 7:45 AM, the value of photoelectric sensor curve 870 is below the first threshold 850 in the first hue region 820, and the operation suggests hue 2. Sometime after 8:00 AM, near sunrise, the photosensitive sensor curve value rises above the first threshold 850 in the second hue region 830, and operation recommends using hue 3. Sometime shortly after sunrise at approximately 8:30 AM, the photosensitive sensor curve value exceeds the second threshold 860 in the third hue region 840, and operation recommends using module A and / or module B to determine the recommended hue level. Sometime shortly before sunset at approximately 5:30 PM, the photosensitive sensor curve value falls below the second threshold 860 in the second hue region 830, and operation recommends using hue 3. After sunset, the photosensitive sensor value falls below the first threshold 850 in the first hue region 820, and operation recommends using hue 2.

[0127] Back Figure 7 Operation 730 continues to determine whether the current information suggests a color region change. Operation 730 determines whether the suggested color region determined from operation 720 differs from the current color region used in the window. If no color change is suggested, the method uses a timer to increment to the next interval of the logical calculation in operation 740 and returns to operation 710. In some cases, the time interval can be constant. In one case, the logical calculation is completed every 2 to 5 minutes. If a color change is suggested in operation 730, the method continues to operation 750.

[0128] In operation 750, a hue command is sent to, for example, a window controller to initiate a transition of a hue region of the colorable window toward the suggested hue region determined in operation 720. Even if the transition to the suggested hue region determined in operation 720 spans two or more hue regions, the hue command sent merely initiates the transition of a single hue region. For example, if the suggested hue region determined in operation 720 is from a first hue region to a third hue region, the hue command sent is to transition a hue region to a second hue region.

[0129] In some cases, a tonal command to convert a tonal region to a suggested tonal region will begin converting to the tonal level associated with the end tonal region. For example, the first tonal region might correspond to tonal 2, and the second tonal region might correspond to tonal 3. In other cases, a tonal command to convert a tonal region to a suggested tonal region will begin converting to the tonal level determined by one or more logic modules (such as modules A, B, and C described above). For example, an upper tonal region associated with a higher irradiance level might correspond to the tonal level determined by modules A and B.

[0130] In operation 760, it is determined whether the final hue region from operation 750 is determined based on information reflecting the current external conditions. For example, if the external conditions are cloudless and sunny, modules A and B can be active and determine the hue level of the final hue region. In this case, the hue level determined by modules A / B is not based on the current external conditions. If it is not based on information reflecting the current external conditions, the method uses a timer to increment to the next interval of the logical calculation in operation 740 and returns to operation 710. If the hue level is based on information reflecting the current external conditions, the method continues to operation 770. For example, if the hue level is based on the current external conditions (e.g., cloudy conditions), module C is active and determines the hue level used in the final hue region.

[0131] In operation 770, for a set lock period, there is a lock to transition to other tonal regions. During this lock period, external conditions are monitored. At the end of the lock period in operation 780, the current scheme and associated transition parameters for the time after the lock period are determined. For example, the control logic can determine whether the time is within a tail scheme or a daytime scheme. If it is at night, the control logic can implement nighttime logic. Additionally, the control logic calculates a suggested tonal region based on the conditions monitored during the lock period. The method then continues to operation 730 to determine whether the current information recommends a transition.

[0132] In operation 780, the suggested hue region is calculated based on a statistical evaluation of the monitored input, using conditions monitored during the lockout period. Various techniques can be used to perform a statistical evaluation of the input monitored during the lockout period. One example is hue averaging during the lockout period. During the lockout period, the control logic performs the operation of monitoring the input and calculating a determined hue level, for example, using one or more of modules A, B, and C. The operation then averages the determined hue level over the lockout period to determine which direction to suggest for a hue region transition.

[0133] Figure 9 This is a diagram illustrating the shading decision of the control logic for a method of controlling a colorable window using hue averaging during a waiting time 910, according to an embodiment. In this example, hue averaging is used to determine a recommended hue region transition after the waiting time based on an average hue decision made from inputs monitored during the waiting time 910. A photoelectric sensor curve 970 of the photoelectric sensor value and a current hue state 980 determined by the method are shown. At position 1, the control logic converts the window's hue to T3 based on calculations performed by modules A / B in the upper hue region. Operation then enters the waiting time 910, during which no command for conversion is sent. During the lockout period, the hue averaging operation continues to monitor photoelectric sensor readings and calculate hue levels determined using modules A, B, and / or C. As shown, hue levels T3, T4, T2, T3, and T4 are determined at five time intervals during the waiting time. Based on these five calculated hue levels, the average hue level during the waiting time is hue 3.2. Since the average hue level calculated during the lockout period is hue 3.2, the probabilistic control logic determines that the current information does not recommend a hue region transition and the hue level remains at T3.

[0134] Figure 10This is a diagram illustrating the shading decision of the control logic for controlling a shadingable window according to an embodiment. A photoelectric sensor curve 1070 of the photoelectric sensor value and a current hue state 1080 determined by the method are shown. In this example, there are a first threshold 1052 and a second threshold 1054, a first hue region 1020 below the first threshold 1052, a second hue region 1040 below the first threshold 1052 and the second threshold 1054, and a third hue region 1050 above the second threshold 1054. The method allows only one hue region transition to be calculated at a time. When transitioning into / out of a hue region, the method waits for a defined lock time period 1010 before starting another transition. At position 1, the method uses modules A, B, and / or C to calculate hue 2. At position 2, the method uses modules A, B, and / or C to calculate hue 3. Because a transition exists between hue 2 and hue 3 at position 2, the method waits for a defined lock time period (X) 1010 at hue 3. At position 3, the method uses modules A, B, and / or C to calculate hue 4. At position 4, the method uses modules A, B, and / or C to calculate hue 2. Because the calculation at position 4 traverses two hue regions, the method chooses to convert one hue region to hue 3 and wait for a limited lock time period 1010. After the lock period, the method uses modules A / B to calculate hue 3. At position 4, the method uses modules A / B to calculate hue 4 and performs a logical conversion to hue 4 and waits for a limited lock time period 1010.

[0135] In one example, the parameters include a first threshold and a second threshold greater than the first threshold. The parameters also include a morning offset, an evening offset, and a pre-defined waiting time during the lockout period. For morning / evening performance in the tail scheme, if the photosensor reading is below the first threshold, the control method proceeds to hue 2; otherwise, it proceeds to hue 4. For midday performance in the daytime scheme, if the photosensor reading jumps from one hue region to the next adjacent hue region, the method waits for a pre-defined time during the lockout period and takes the average hue state to determine whether to recommend a new transition. If the photosensor reading crosses multiple hue regions, the method proceeds to an adjacent hue region and waits for a pre-defined time during the lockout period. The method uses the average hue state to determine whether to recommend a new transition.

[0136] Figure 12A , 12BFigures 12C and 12C are three graphs illustrating the performance of a method executed by control logic according to an embodiment under clear weather conditions, intermittent cloud cover conditions, and cloudy-to-clear weather conditions, respectively. The parameters used by the control logic include a first threshold = 100, a second threshold = 400, a morning offset = 1 hour, an evening offset = 1 hour, and a wait time = 0 (i.e., no wait time). In the clear weather condition, hue 3 is not displayed in the tail scenario. In the intermediate cloud cover condition, it tends to remain at hue 3. The method in the tail scenario is biased towards hue 4, which may be perceived as tail shading during intermediate cloud cover.

[0137] Figure 13A , 13B Figures 13C and 13C depict three graphs illustrating the performance of a method executed by control logic according to an embodiment under clear weather conditions, intermittent cloud cover conditions, and cloudy-to-clear weather conditions. The parameters used by the control logic include a first threshold = 100, a second threshold = 400, a morning offset = 1 hour, an evening offset = 1 hour, and a wait time = 45 minutes. The clear weather condition is not shown in hue 3 in the tail scheme.

[0138] In various embodiments, the control logic implements a method that prevents more than one hue region transition at a given time. This can still be considered a hue region jump if the lower hue region is T1 and the adjacent upper hue region is T3. Similarly, jumping to a higher A / B region (which determines hue 4) when the lower region is hue 1 and the adjacent upper region is A / B is also considered a hue region jump. During the lockout, the method can use module C to determine the hue state of the initial shading command and then continue calculating module C values. This determines whether to jump back to module A / B (averaged by T4) to maintain the current hue region or enter a lighter hue state. Module C's initial hue command or final hue state command cannot exceed the module A / B constraint. During the lockout, the method sends two hue commands. The first hue command is when module C becomes active (i.e., the method changes from hue 4 to hue 3 driven by module C). The final hue command is after module C decides to move back to hue region module A / B, maintain the current hue state, or jump to the next lowest hue region. All other calculations are performed by module C to determine the direction.

[0139] Figure 14A diagram illustrating the performance of a method executed by control logic according to an embodiment is shown. The diagram includes a photosensitive curve 1470 and a hue level curve 1480 for a hue command executed during a first condition period. The hue level curve 1480 includes a lockout period 1410. In this example, there is a first threshold 1490 and a second threshold 1491, a first hue region below the first threshold 1490, a second hue region between the first threshold 1490 and the second threshold 1491, and a third hue region above the second threshold 1491. When the photosensitive value in the photosensitive curve 1470 is greater than the second (upper) threshold 1491, modules A / B output hue 4 and the system is not in a locked state. When the control logic determines a hue change for hue 3 based on the photosensitive value decreasing below the second threshold 1491, the control logic begins the lockout period 1410, during which the hue state remains at hue 3 until the lockout period 1410 ends. During the lockout period 1410, module C continues to output hue 3, averaging the duration of hue 3 throughout the lockout period. At the end of the lock period 1410, the photoelectric sensor value of photoelectric sensor curve 1470 is still within the hue 3 range. After the lock period 1410, the control logic will continue to output hue 3 without locking until the hue command changes.

[0140] Figure 15 A diagram illustrating the performance of a method executed by control logic according to an embodiment is provided. The diagram includes a photodetector curve 1570 and a hue level curve 1580 representing the second condition of the executed hue command. The hue level curve 1580 includes a first locking period 1510 and a second locking period 1511. In this example, there are a first threshold 1590 and a second threshold 1591, a first hue region below the first threshold 1590, a second hue region between the first and second thresholds 1590 and 1591, and a third hue region below the second threshold 1591. When the photodetector value in the photodetector curve 1570 is greater than the second (upper) threshold 1591, module A / B outputs hue 4 and the system is not locked. When the control logic determines a hue change for hue 3 based on the photodetector value decreasing below the second threshold 1591 at 9 AM, the control logic begins the first locking period 1510, during which the hue state remains at hue 3 until the end of the locking period 1510. During the locking period 1510, module C primarily calculates the average hue 2 of hue 2. At the end of the locking period 1510, the photoelectric sensor value of photoelectric sensor curve 1570 is in the first hue region. The control logic outputs hue 2 and resets the second locking period 1511, remaining at hue 2 until the end of the second locking period 1511. At the end of the second locking period 1511, the photoelectric sensor value of photoelectric sensor curve 1570 is still in the first hue region, and the control logic calculates hue 2.

[0141] Figure 16 A graph illustrating the performance of a method executed by control logic according to an embodiment is depicted. The graph includes a photosensitive sensor curve 1691 and a hue level curve 1680 for the executed hue, commanding a third condition. Hue level curve 1680 includes a lockout period 1610. In this example, there are a first threshold 1690 and a second threshold 1691, a first hue region below the first threshold 1690, a second hue region between the first and second thresholds 1690 and 1691, and a third hue region above the second threshold 1691. When the photosensitive sensor value in photosensitive sensor curve 1670 is greater than the second (upper) threshold 1691, modules A / B output hue 4 and the system is not in a locked state. At approximately 9:00 AM, the photosensitive sensor value drops below the first threshold 1690. The control logic determines that only one hue level change is allowed and determines hue 3, initiating the lockout period 1610. The hue state remains at hue 3 until the lockout period 1610 ends. During the lockout period, module C primarily calculates hue 4, with an average hue level of approximately 3.5. At the end of lock period 1510, modules A / B determine hue 4. When modules A / B determine the hue state, another lock period will not be initiated.

[0142] Figure 17 A graph illustrating the performance of the method executed by the control logic according to an embodiment is depicted. The graph includes a photosensitive curve 1770 and a hue level curve 1780 for a hue command executed during a fourth condition. Hue level curve 1780 includes a locking period 1710. In this example, there are a first threshold 1790 and a second threshold 1791, a first hue region below the first threshold 1790, a second hue region between the first and second thresholds 1790 and 1791, and a third hue region above the second threshold 1791. When the photosensitive value in photosensitive curve 1770 is greater than the second (upper) threshold 1791, modules A / B output hue 4 and the system is not locked. At approximately 9:00 AM, the photosensitive value drops to the first hue region. The control logic determines that only one hue level change is allowed and determines hue 3, initiating the locking period 1710. The hue state remains at hue 3 until the end of the locking period 1710. During the locking period, module C primarily calculates hue 4, with an average hue level of approximately 3.5. At the end of the lock period 1710, the control logic exits module C and uses module A / B to determine hue 2. When module A / B determines the hue state, another lock period will not be initiated.

[0143] Figure 18A graph illustrating the performance of the method executed by the control logic according to an embodiment is depicted. The graph includes a photosensitive curve 1870 and a hue level curve 1880 for a hue command executed during a fifth condition. Hue level curve 1880 includes a locking period 1810. In this example, there are a first threshold 1890 and a second threshold 1891, a first hue region below the first threshold 1890, a second hue region between the first and second thresholds 1891, and a third hue region above the second threshold 1891. From 2:00 AM until exactly 9:00 AM, the photosensitive value is less than the first threshold 1890, and the control logic determines hue 2. During this period, the system is not locked and is in a stable state of hue 2. At approximately 9:00 AM, the photosensitive value rises from the first hue region to the third hue region. The control logic determines that only one hue level change is allowed and determines hue 3, initiating the locking period 1810. The hue state remains at hue 3 until the end of the locking period 1810. During the locking period, module C primarily calculates hue 4, with an average hue level of approximately 3.5. At the end of the lock period 1810, the control logic exits module C and uses modules A / B to determine hue 4. When modules A / B determine the hue state, another lock period will not be initiated.

[0144] Figure 19 A graph illustrating the performance of the method executed by the control logic according to an embodiment is depicted. The graph includes a photosensitive curve 1970 and a hue level curve 1980 for a hue command executed during a sixth condition. The hue level curve 1980 includes a first locking period 1910 and a second locking period 1911. In this example, there are a first threshold 1990 and a second threshold 1991, a first hue region below the first threshold 1990, a second hue region between the first and second thresholds 1990 and 1991, and a third hue region above the second threshold 1991. From 2:00 AM until exactly 9:00 AM, the photosensitive value is less than the first threshold 1990 and the control logic determines hue 2. During this period, the system is not locked and is in a stable state of hue 2. At approximately 9:00 AM, the photosensitive value rises from the first hue region to the third hue region. The control logic determines that only one hue level change is allowed and determines hue 3, initiating the first locking period 1910. The hue state remains at hue 3 until the end of the first locking period 1910. During the locking period, module C primarily calculates hue 2. At the end of the first locking period 1910, the photoelectric sensor value is below a first threshold. The control logic uses module C to calculate hue 2 and reset the second locking period 1911, and remains at hue 2 until the end of the second locking period 1911. Figure 20A graph illustrating the performance of the method executed by the control logic according to an embodiment is depicted. The graph includes a photosensitive curve 2070 and a hue level curve 2080 for a hue command executed during a sixth condition. Hue level curve 2080 includes a locking period 2010. In this example, there are a first threshold 2090 and a second threshold 2091, a first hue region below the first threshold 2090, a second hue region 2091 between the first and second thresholds 2090 and 2091, and a third hue region above the second threshold 2091. From 2:00 AM until exactly 9:00 AM, the photosensitive value is less than the first threshold 1990 and the control logic determines hue 2. During this period, the system is not locked and is in a stable state of hue 2. At approximately 9:00 AM, the photosensitive value rises from the first hue region to the third hue region. The control logic determines that only one hue level change is allowed and determines hue 3, initiating the locking period 2010. During the locking period, module C calculates hue 3. At the end of the lock period, since the photoelectric sensor value is in the second hue region and the average hue value during the lock period is hue 3, the control logic determines hue 3. When the photoelectric sensor value moves to the third hue region, the control logic exits module C and uses modules A / B to determine hue 4. When modules A / B determine the hue state, another lock period will not be initiated.

[0145] In some embodiments, reference Figure 7 The control logic discussed in other instances can be executed to control one or more tintable windows throughout a building on a single master window controller. In other instances, the control logic can be executed in a window controller that controls a single window or a region of windows. In yet another instance, the control logic can be executed on a window controller to control the tint level of one or more tinted regions in a multi-zone window. Some examples of multi-zone windows can be found in PCT application PCT / US14 / 71314 entitled “MULTI-ZONE ECWINDOWS,” which is incorporated herein by reference for the discussion of multi-zone windows.

[0146] Furthermore, there may be some adaptive components in the control logic of the embodiments. For example, the control logic may determine how an end user (e.g., a resident) attempts the overclocking algorithm at a specific time of day and utilize that information in a more probabilistic manner to determine the desired hue level. In one case, the end user may be using a wall switch or remote device to overclock the hue level provided by the logic at a specific time of day to an overclocked value. The control logic may receive information about these instances and modify the control logic to change the hue level to the overclocked value at that time of day.

[0147] In some embodiments, the control logic executes a control method that issues hue commands, sending only one hue command at a time to switch a hue region of the window, even if the control module suggests a hue transition across two or more regions. If the end hue region is determined based on current external conditions (i.e., module C control), the control method is locked for a waiting period. During the lockout period, module C continues to calculate module C values. At the end of the lockout period, these module C values ​​are used to determine whether to switch to a higher new hue region, maintain the current hue region, or enter a lighter hue region.

[0148] The control method described herein makes hue decisions based on a statistical evaluation of macroscopic oscillations in photoelectric sensor readings and other input data. In one embodiment, the hue decision based on the control method may also take into account micro-oscillations, for example, by including a van. Figure 21 A micro-oscillation diagram is shown (top of page). Figure 22 A graph showing macroscopic oscillations (bottom) for comparison is shown.

[0149] V. Building Management System (BMS) The window controllers described here are also suitable for integration with a Building Management System (BMS). A BMS is a computer-based control system installed in a building to monitor and control the building's mechanical and electrical equipment, such as ventilation, lighting, electrical systems, elevators, fire protection systems, and security systems. A BMS consists of hardware, including interconnection to one or more computers via communication channels, and related software for maintaining the building's status according to preferences set by occupants and / or building managers. For example, a local area network (LAN) such as Ethernet can be used to implement a BMS. The software can be based on, for example, Internet protocols and / or open standards. An example is software from Tridium, Inc. (Richmond, Virginia). One communication protocol commonly used with BMSs is BACnet (Building Automation and Control Network).

[0150] Building Management Systems (BMS) are most common in large buildings and are typically used to control the environment within the building. For example, a BMS can control temperature, carbon dioxide levels, and humidity within a building. Typically, there are many mechanical devices controlled by the BMS, such as heaters, air conditioners, blowers, and vents. To control the building environment, the BMS can turn these various devices on and off under defined conditions. A core function of a typical modern BMS is to maintain a comfortable environment for the building's occupants while minimizing heating and cooling costs / demands. Therefore, modern BMS is used not only for monitoring and control but also for optimizing the synergy between various systems, for example, to save energy and reduce building operating costs.

[0151] In some embodiments, the window controller is integrated with the BMS, wherein the window controller is configured to control one or more electrochromic windows or other colorable windows. In one embodiment, the one or more electrochromic windows include at least one all-solid-state and inorganic electrochromic device, but may include more than one electrochromic device, such as where each pane or pane of the IGU is colorable. In one embodiment, the one or more electrochromic windows include only all-solid-state and inorganic electrochromic devices. In one embodiment, the electrochromic window is a multipane electrochromic window, as described in U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 12 / 851,514, filed August 5, 2010, entitled "Multipane Electrochromic Windows".

[0152] Figure 28 A schematic diagram of an embodiment of BMS 3100 is depicted, which manages multiple systems of building 3101, including security systems, heating / ventilation / air conditioning (HVAC), building lighting, electrical systems, elevators, fire protection systems, etc. Security systems may include magnetic card access, rotary doors, electromagnetic door locks, surveillance cameras, burglar alarms, metal detectors, etc. Fire protection systems may include fire alarm and extinguishing systems, including water pipe control. Lighting systems may include indoor lighting, outdoor lighting, emergency warning lights, emergency exit signs, and emergency floor exit lighting. Electrical systems may include mains power, backup generators, and uninterruptible power supply (UPS) grids.

[0153] Furthermore, the BMS 3100 manages the main window controller 3102. In this example, the main window controller 3102 is depicted as a distributed network of window controllers, including a main network controller 3103, intermediate network controllers 3105a and 3105b, and a terminal or leaf controller 3110. The terminal or leaf controller 3110 can be similar to... Figure 4 The window controller 450 is described. For example, a main network controller 3103 may be located near the BMS 3100, and each floor of the building 3101 may have one or more intermediate network controllers 3105a and 3105b, while each window of the building has its own terminal controller 3110. In this example, each of the controllers 3110 controls a specific electrochromic window of the building 3101.

[0154] Each controller 3110 may be located separately from the electrochromic windows it controls, or it may be integrated into the electrochromic windows. For simplicity, only ten electrochromic windows of building 3101 are depicted as being controlled by a master window controller 3102. In a typical setup, there may be a large number of electrochromic windows in a building controlled by the master window controller 3102. The master window controller 3102 need not be a distributed network of window controllers. For example, a single end controller controlling the functionality of an individual electrochromic window also falls within the scope of the embodiments disclosed herein, as described above.

[0155] 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 efficiency, 3) security, 4) flexibility of control options, 5) improved reliability and lifespan of other systems due to less reliance on and maintenance, 6) information availability and diagnostics, 7) efficient use by personnel and higher productivity, and various combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the BMS may be absent, or the BMS may be present but may not communicate with the main network controller or may communicate with the main network controller at a high level. In some embodiments, maintenance of the BMS does not interrupt control of the electrochromic window.

[0156] In some cases, the BMS 3100 system can operate on daily, monthly, quarterly, or yearly schedules. For example, lighting control systems, window control systems, HVAC, and security systems can operate on a 24-hour schedule that takes into account when people are in the building during the weekday. At night, the building can enter energy-saving mode, and during the day, the system can operate in a way that minimizes the building's energy consumption while providing comfort for occupants. As another example, the system can be turned off or enter energy-saving mode during holidays.

[0157] Scheduling information can be combined with geographic information. Geographic information can include the building's latitude and longitude. It can also include information about the orientation of each side of the building. Using this information, different rooms on different sides of the building can be controlled in different ways. For example, for east-facing rooms in a building during winter, window controllers could instruct the windows to be untinted in the morning, allowing the room to warm up due to sunlight, and lighting control panels could dim the indicator lights due to sunlight. West-facing windows could be controlled by the room's occupants in the morning, as the tinting of west-facing windows might not have an impact on energy efficiency. However, the operating modes for east-facing and west-facing windows could be switched at night (e.g., when the sun sets, west-facing windows are untinted to allow sunlight in for heat and lighting).

[0158] The following describes an example of a building, such as... Figure 29 Building 3101 includes a building network or BMS, tinted windows (windows that separate the interior from the exterior) for the building's exterior windows, and numerous different sensors. Light from the building's exterior windows typically affects the building's interior lighting, approximately 20 to 30 feet from the windows. That is, spaces within the building approximately 20 to 30 feet from the exterior windows receive very little light from them. These spaces farther from the exterior windows are illuminated by the building's lighting system.

[0159] In addition, the temperature inside a building can be affected by external light and / or external temperature. For example, on a cold day and when the building is heated by a heating system, rooms near doors and / or windows will lose heat faster and be colder than the interior areas of the building.

[0160] For external sensors, the building may include external sensors on the building's roof. Alternatively, the building may include external sensors associated with each exterior window or external sensors on each side of the building. As the sun changes position throughout the day, the external sensors on each side of the building can track the irradiance on one side of the building.

[0161] Regarding Figure 7 The described methods and other examples illustrate how, when a window controller is integrated into a building network or BMS, outputs from external sensors can be input to the BMS network and provided as input to the local window controller. 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.

[0162] In some embodiments, the received output signal includes a signal indicating the energy or power consumption of the building's heating system, cooling system, and / or lighting. For example, the energy or power consumption of the heating system, cooling system, and / or the building's lighting can be monitored to provide a signal indicating energy or power consumption. The device can interface with or connect to the building's circuitry and / or wiring to enable this monitoring. Alternatively, the building's electrical system can be installed to monitor the power consumed by the heating system, cooling system, and / or lighting in a single room or a group of rooms within the building.

[0163] A hue command can be provided to change the hue of a colorable window to a defined hue level. For example, refer to... Figure 29This may include the main network controller 3103 issuing commands to one or more intermediate network controllers 3105a and 3105b, which in turn issue commands to terminal controllers 3110 controlling each window of the building. Terminal controller 3100 may apply voltage and / or current to the window to drive hue changes according to instructions.

[0164] In some embodiments, a building including electrochromic windows and a BMS can register for or participate in a demand response procedure operated by a utility that supplies power to the building. This procedure may be one that reduces the building's energy consumption when a peak load is anticipated. The utility may issue a warning signal prior to the anticipated peak load. For example, the warning may be sent the day before, in the morning, or approximately one hour before the anticipated peak load. For example, a peak load may be anticipated on a hot summer day when the cooling system / air conditioning draws a large amount of power from the utility. The warning signal may be received by the building's BMS or by a window controller configured to control the electrochromic windows in the building. The warning signal may be a control mechanism disconnected from modules A, B, and C. The BMS can then instruct the window controller to switch the appropriate electrochromic device in the electrochromic window 505 to a darker level, helping to reduce the power consumption of the cooling system in the building during the anticipated peak load.

[0165] In some embodiments, tintable windows (i.e., windows that separate the interior from the exterior of a building) for the exterior of a building can be grouped into zones, with the tintable windows in each zone indicated in a similar manner. For example, groups of electrochromic windows on different floors or different sides of a building can be in different zones. For instance, on the first floor of a building, all east-facing electrochromic windows could be in zone 1, all south-facing electrochromic windows in zone 2, all west-facing electrochromic windows in zone 3, and all north-facing electrochromic windows in zone 4. As another example, all electrochromic windows on the first floor of a building could be in zone 1, all electrochromic windows on the second floor could be in zone 2, and all electrochromic windows on the third floor could be in zone 3. As yet another example, all east-facing electrochromic windows could be in zone 1, all south-facing electrochromic windows in zone 2, all west-facing electrochromic windows in zone 3, and all north-facing electrochromic windows in zone 4. As another example, an east-facing electrochromic window on the ground floor can be divided into different zones. Any number of colorable windows on the same and / or different sides and / or different floors of the building can be assigned to zones. In embodiments where each colorable window has an independently controllable zone, a combination of zones of the individual windows can be used to form colored areas on the building facade, for example, where each window may or may not have all of its zones colored.

[0166] In some embodiments, the electrochromic windows in a region may be controlled by the same window controller. In some other embodiments, the electrochromic windows in a region may be controlled by different window controllers, but all window controllers may receive the same output signal from the sensor and use the same function or lookup table to determine the hue level of the window in the region.

[0167] In some embodiments, electrochromic windows in a region may be controlled by one or more window controllers that receive output signals from a transmittance sensor. In some embodiments, the transmittance sensor may be mounted near the window in the region. For example, the transmittance sensor may be mounted in or on a frame including an IGU (e.g., mounted in or on a vertical frame, on a horizontal grid of the frame). In some other embodiments, electrochromic windows in a region including windows on one side of a building may be controlled by a window controller that receives output signals from a transmittance sensor.

[0168] In some embodiments, a sensor (e.g., a photoelectric sensor) may provide an output signal to a window controller to control an electrochromic window in a first region (e.g., a main control region). The window controller may also control an electrochromic window in a second region (e.g., a secondary control region) in the same manner as the first region. In some other embodiments, another window controller may control an electrochromic window in a second region in the same manner as the first region.

[0169] In some embodiments, a building manager, a room occupant in the second zone, or another person may manually instruct (e.g., using hue or transparency commands or commands from the BMS user console) that the electrochromic window in the second zone (i.e., the subordinate control zone) enter a hue level, such as a tinted state (level) or a transparent state. In some embodiments, when the hue level of a window in the second zone is overridden with such a manual command, the electrochromic window in the first zone (i.e., the main control zone) remains under the control of the window controller and receives output from a transmittance sensor. The second zone may remain in manual command mode for a period of time and then revert to being controlled by the window controller and receiving output from the transmittance sensor. For example, the second zone may remain in manual mode for one hour after receiving an overridden command and then revert to being controlled by the window controller and receiving output from the transmittance sensor.

[0170] In some embodiments, a building manager, a room occupant in the first zone, or another person may manually instruct (e.g., using a hue command or a command from the BMS user console) for windows in the first zone (i.e., the main control zone) to enter a hue level, such as a tinted or transparent state. In some embodiments, when the hue level of a window in the first zone is overridden with such a manual command, electrochromic windows in the second zone (i.e., the secondary control zone) remain under the control of a window controller, receiving output from an external sensor. The first zone may remain in manual command mode for a period of time before reverting to window controller control and receiving output from a transmittance sensor. For example, the first zone may remain in manual mode for one hour after receiving an overriding command before reverting to window controller control and receiving output from a transmittance sensor. In some other embodiments, when a manual overriding command is received from the first zone, electrochromic windows in the second zone may remain at their hue level. The first zone may remain in manual command mode for a period of time before both the first and second zones may revert to window controller control and receive output from a transmittance sensor.

[0171] Regardless of whether the window controller is a standalone window controller or interfaces with a building network, any of the methods described in this article for controlling colorable windows can be used to control the hue of colorable windows.

[0172] Wireless or wired communication In some embodiments, the window controller described herein includes components for wired or wireless communication between the window controller, sensors, and separate communication nodes. Wireless or wired communication can be implemented using a communication interface that interfaces directly with the window controller. This interface can be a native interface of the microprocessor or provided through additional circuitry that implements these functions.

[0173] A single communication node used for wireless communication can be, for example, another wireless window controller, a terminal, an intermediate or main 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, for example… Figure 5 Window 505 in the document collects data from the various sensors and protocols described herein and uses the electrochromic window as a relay point for wireless communication. The data collected from the electrochromic window aperture may also include counting data, such as the number of times the electrochromic device has been activated, the efficiency of the electrochromic device over time, etc. These wireless communication characteristics are described in more detail below.

[0174] In one embodiment, wireless communication is used to operate the associated electrochromic window, for example, via infrared (IR) and / or radio frequency (RF) signals. In some embodiments, the controller will include a wireless protocol chip, such as Bluetooth, EnOcean, WiFi, Zigbee, etc. The window controller can also communicate wirelessly over a network. Input to the window controller can be manually entered by the end user directly at a wall switch or via wireless communication, or the input can come from the building's BMS, where the electrochromic window is a component.

[0175] In one embodiment, when the window controller is part of a distributed controller network, wireless communication is used to transmit data to each of a plurality of electrochromic windows via the distributed network of controllers, each controller having a wireless communication component. See again, for example. Figure 29 The main network controller 3103 communicates wirelessly with each of the intermediate network controllers 3105a and 3105b, which in turn communicate wirelessly with the terminal controller 3110, each terminal controller being associated with an electrochromic window. The main network controller 3103 may also communicate wirelessly with the BMS 3100. In one embodiment, communication at least one level of the window controller is performed wirelessly.

[0176] In some embodiments, more than one wireless communication mode is used in the distributed network of window controllers. For example, the main window controller can communicate wirelessly with the intermediate controller via WiFi or Zigbee, while the intermediate controller communicates with the terminal controller via Bluetooth, Zigbee, EnOcean, or other protocols. In another instance, the window controller has a redundant wireless communication system to provide flexibility for the end user in choosing wireless communication.

[0177] For example, wireless communication between the main window controller and / or intermediate window controller and the terminal window controller offers the advantage of avoiding the installation of hard communication lines. The same applies to wireless communication between the window controller and the BMS. In one aspect, wireless communication in these roles is useful for data transmission in and out of electrochromic windows, for operating the windows and providing data to, for example, the BMS to optimize the building's environment and energy savings. Window position data, along with feedback from sensors, is used in conjunction for this optimization. For example, granular (per-window) microclimate information is fed into the BMS to optimize various environmental aspects of the building.

[0178] VI. System Examples for Controlling Colorable Window Functionality Figure 29 It is according to the embodiment for controlling a building (e.g.) Figure 28A block diagram of the components of a system 3400 for the function of one or more colorable windows (e.g., switching to different tint levels) in building 3101 shown. System 3400 may be composed of a BMS (e.g., a BMS). Figure 28 It is one of the systems managed by the BMS 3100 shown, or it can operate independently of the BMS.

[0179] System 3400 includes a master window controller 3402, which can send control signals to tintable windows to control their functions. System 3400 also includes a network 3410 that electronically communicates with the master window controller 3402. The control logic, other control logic and instructions for controlling the functions of the tintable windows, and / or sensor data can be transmitted to the master window controller 3402 via network 3410. Network 3410 can be a wired or wireless network (e.g., a cloud network). In one embodiment, network 3410 can communicate with a Building Management System (BMS) to allow the BMS to send instructions for controlling the tintable windows via network 3410 to the tintable windows in the building.

[0180] System 3400 also includes an electrochromic device 4400 for a tintable window (not shown) and a wall switch 4490, both of which are electronically communicated with a master window controller 3402. In the illustrated example, the master window controller 1402 can send control signals to the electrochromic device 4400 to control the tint level of the tintable window with the electrochromic device 4400. Each wall switch 3490 also communicates with both the electrochromic device 4400 and the master window controller 3402. An end user (e.g., an occupant of a room with a tintable window) can use the wall switch 3490 to control the tint level and other functions of the tintable window with the electrochromic device 4400.

[0181] exist Figure 29 In this diagram, the master window controller 3402 is depicted as a distributed network of window controllers, including a master network controller 3403, multiple intermediate network controllers 3405 communicating with the master network controller 3403, and multiple terminal or leaf-end window controllers 3410. Each of the multiple terminal or leaf-end window controllers 3410 communicates with a single intermediate network controller 3405. Although the master window controller 3402 is shown as a distributed network of window controllers, in other embodiments, the master window controller 3402 may also be a single window controller controlling the functionality of a single colorable window. Figure 29 The components of System 1400 in the system can be similar in some respects to those related to Figure 28 The components described. For example, the main network controller 3403 may be similar to the main network controller 3103, and the intermediate network controller 3405 may be similar to the intermediate network controller 3105. Figure 29Each window controller in the distributed network includes a processor (e.g., a microprocessor) and a computer-readable medium that communicates electrically with the processor.

[0182] exist Figure 29 In this configuration, each leaf-end or terminal window controller 3410 communicates with the EC device 4400 of a single tintable window to control the tint level of that tintable window within the building. In the case of an IGU, the leaf-end or terminal window controller 3410 may communicate with EC devices 4400 on multiple nodes of the IGU to control the IGU's tint level. In other embodiments, each leaf-end or terminal window controller 3410 may communicate with multiple tintable windows. The leaf-end or terminal window controller 3410 may be integrated into a tintable window or may be separate from the tintable windows it controls. Figure 29 The leaf-end and terminal window controller 3410 in the middle can be similar to that in Figure 28 The terminal or leaf-end controller 3110 in the middle and / or may also be similar to the one mentioned above. Figure 4 The window controller 450 is described.

[0183] Each wall switch 3490 can be operated by an end user (e.g., the occupant of a room) to control the tint level and other functions of the tinttable window that communicates with the wall switch 3490. The end user can operate the wall switch 3490 to transmit control signals to the EC device 4400 in the associated tinttable window. In some cases, these signals from the wall switch 3490 can override signals from the master window controller 3402. In other cases (e.g., high-demand situations), control signals from the master window controller 3402 can override control signals from the wall switch 3490. Each wall switch 3490 also communicates with a leaf or terminal window controller 3410 to send information about control signals sent from the wall switch 3490 (e.g., time, date, requested tint level) back to the master window controller 3402. In some cases, the wall switch 3490 can be operated manually. In other cases, the wall switch 3490 can be wirelessly controlled by an end user using a remote device (such as a mobile phone, tablet, etc.) to send control signals via wireless communication, for example, using infrared (IR) and / or radio frequency (RF) signals. In some cases, the wall switch 3490 may include a wireless protocol chip, such as Bluetooth, EnOcean, WiFi, Zigbee, etc. Although... Figure 29 The wall switch 3490 depicted is located on the wall, but other embodiments of the system 3400 may have switches located elsewhere in the room.

[0184] Without departing from the scope of this disclosure, any of the above-described control logic, other control logic, and related control methods (e.g., regarding...) can be modified. Figure 7The described logic may be modified, added to, or omitted. Without departing from the scope of this disclosure, any of the above logic may include more, fewer, or other logical components. Furthermore, without departing from the scope of this disclosure, the steps of the described logic may be performed in any suitable order.

[0185] Furthermore, the system or its components can be modified, added to, or omitted without departing from the scope of this disclosure. Components can be integrated or separated as needed. For example, the main network controller and intermediate network controllers can be integrated into a single window controller. Moreover, the operation of the system can be performed by more, fewer, or other components. Additionally, any suitable logic, including software, hardware, other logic, or any suitable combination of the foregoing, can be used to perform the operation of the system.

[0186] It should be understood that the present invention as described above can be implemented in a modular or integrated manner using computer software in the form of control logic. Based on the disclosure and teachings provided herein, those skilled in the art will know and understand other ways and / or methods of implementing the present invention using hardware and combinations of hardware and software.

[0187] Any software component or function 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 techniques such as conventional or object-oriented methods. 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 hard disk drives or floppy disks, or disk or optical media such as CD-ROMs. Any such computer-readable medium can reside on or within a single computing device and can exist on or within different computing devices within a system or network.

[0188] Although the foregoing invention has been described in some detail for ease of understanding, the described embodiments should be considered illustrative rather than restrictive. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that certain changes and modifications can be practiced within the scope of the appended claims.

[0189] Without departing from the scope of this disclosure, one or more features from any embodiment may be combined with one or more features from any other embodiment. Furthermore, modifications, additions, or omissions may be made to any embodiment without departing from the scope of this disclosure. Components of any embodiment may be integrated or separated as needed without departing from the scope of this disclosure.

Claims

1. A method for controlling the tint of a tintable window in a building, the method comprising: (a) Defining one or more thresholds for one or more environmental conditions within a defined time period; (b) If one or more input readings acquired during the defined time period of the one or more environmental conditions exceed one or both of the one or more thresholds, a first hue instruction is sent to transition the colorable window from a first hue state to a second hue state, and a locking period is initiated during which the colorable window does not transition. and (c) (i) Perform a statistical evaluation based on one or more confidence levels to determine one or more possible external conditions based on one or more input readings monitored during the lockdown period, and determine a third hue state to be applied after the lockdown period based on the statistical evaluation that determines the one or more external conditions; or (ii) Perform a statistical evaluation based on one or more confidence levels to determine a third hue state to be applied after the lockdown period, and determine the third hue state based on one or more hue states determined for the lockdown period using one or more logical algorithms. If the defined time period is in the tail phase, a threshold is defined; if the defined time period is in the daytime phase, two thresholds are defined.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein the one or more input readings acquired during the defined time period and / or the one or more input readings acquired during the lockout period include visible light photoelectric sensor readings, infrared sensor readings, and weather feed data.

3. The method of claim 1, wherein the one or more thresholds are defined based on whether the defined time period is a tailing scheme between sunrise and a first offset after sunrise or a tailing scheme between sunset and a second offset before sunset.

4. The method of claim 1, further comprising determining whether the defined time period is in a tailing scheme by evaluating input readings during the defined time period, wherein the one or more thresholds are defined based on whether the defined time period is in a tailing scheme.

5. The method according to claim 1, The method further includes: If at least one of the one or more input readings acquired during the defined time period is higher than the highest value of the one or more thresholds, the second hue state is determined using the first logic module and / or the second logic module; and If at least one of the one or more input readings acquired during the defined time period is lower than the highest value of the one or more thresholds, the second hue state is determined using a third logic module.

6. The method according to claim 5, The method further includes determining the second hue state in part based on the following: (A) The calculated penetration depth and the space type of the room in which the tintable window is located; (B) Calculated solar irradiance passing through the colorable window under clear sky conditions; and / or (C) The one or more environmental conditions outside the building.

7. The method of claim 1, wherein the one or more input readings acquired during the lockout include an indication of cloud conditions.

8. The method according to claim 1, further comprising: Receive the over-control color tone status; and Send a hyper hue command to convert the colorable window to the hyper hue state.

9. The method of claim 8, wherein the over-control hue state is received from a wall switch or mobile device.

10. A controller for controlling the hue of tintable windows in a building, the controller comprising: A pulse width modulator, which communicates with the colorable window and is configured to convert the hue of the colorable window when a hue instruction is received; and One or more processors, which communicate with the pulse width modulator and the colorizable window, are configured to: Limiting or guiding one or more thresholds that define one or more environmental conditions within a limited time period; If one or more input readings acquired during the defined time period of the one or more environmental conditions exceed one or two thresholds, the hue command is sent to the pulse width modulator to cause the colorable window to transition from a first hue state to a second hue state, and a locking period is initiated during which the colorable window does not transition. and (i) performing a statistical evaluation based on one or more confidence levels to determine one or more possible external conditions based on one or more input readings monitored during the lockdown period, and determining a third hue state to be applied after the lockdown period based on the statistical evaluation of the one or more external conditions, or (ii) performing a statistical evaluation based on one or more hue states determined for the lockdown period using one or more logical algorithms to determine a third hue state to be applied after the lockdown period; If the defined time period is in the tail phase, a threshold is defined; if the defined time period is in the daytime phase, two thresholds are defined.

11. The controller of claim 10, wherein the one or more input readings acquired during the defined time period and / or the one or more input readings acquired during the lockout period include visible light photoelectric sensor readings, infrared sensor readings, and weather feed data.

12. The controller of claim 10, wherein the one or more thresholds are defined based on whether the defined time period is a tailing scheme between sunrise and a first offset after sunrise or a tailing scheme between sunset and a second offset before sunset.

13. The controller of claim 10, wherein the one or more processors are further configured to determine whether the defined time period is in a tailing scheme by evaluating input readings during the defined time period, wherein the one or more thresholds are defined based on whether the defined time period is in a tailing scheme.

14. The controller according to claim 10, The one or more processors are further configured to: If at least one of the one or more input readings acquired during the defined time period is higher than the highest value of the one or more thresholds, then the first logic module and / or the second logic module are used to determine or guide the determination of the second hue state; and If at least one of the one or more input readings is lower than the highest value of the one or more thresholds during the defined time period, the third logic module is used to determine or guide the determination of the second hue state.

15. The controller according to claim 14, The one or more processors are further configured to determine the second hue state in part based on the following: (A) Calculated penetration depth and room type with the said tintable window; (B) Calculated solar irradiance passing through the colorable window under clear sky conditions; and / or (C) The one or more environmental conditions outside the building.

16. The controller of claim 10, wherein the one or more input readings acquired during the lockout include an indication of cloud conditions.

17. The controller of claim 10, wherein the one or more processors are further configured to use one or more logic algorithms to determine or guide the determination of the hue state applied after the locking period.

18. The controller of claim 10, wherein the one or more processors are further configured to: Receive or guide the reception of over-control tone state; and Send or direct the sending of a hyper-hue command to convert the colorable window to the hyper-hue state.

19. The controller of claim 18, wherein the over-control hue state is received from a wall switch or mobile device.

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